Jay's bookshelf: all en-US Sun, 02 Feb 2025 10:19:35 -0800 60 Jay's bookshelf: all 144 41 /images/layout/goodreads_logo_144.jpg <![CDATA[Conflict of Interest (Portland Police Bureau, #1)]]> 6603893 562 Jae Jay 0 to-read 4.21 2008 Conflict of Interest (Portland Police Bureau, #1)
author: Jae
name: Jay
average rating: 4.21
book published: 2008
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/02/02
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> Bachelorette Number Twelve 204583545 At a singles auction where no one was bidding on love, a warmhearted ER nurse finds herself dating a prickly doctor in this enemies-to-lovers lesbian romance.

Ellie Fisher loves most things about being a nurse in the emergency department…just not working with Regina Novak, an icy attending physician who acts as if she’s God’s gift to medicine.

The dislike is completely mutual. Regina thinks Ellie is a starry-eyed romantic with a sentimental attitude that has no place at work.

When Regina gets talked into volunteering at a singles auction, Ellie accidentally bids on her—and ends up winning. Oops!

Since the money raised is for a good cause, they reluctantly decide to go through with the dates.

Thanks to a baking class that turns into a competition and a hot-as-hell road trip snack incident, the ice between them starts to thaw. Is it possible the ER isn’t the most unromantic place on earth after all?]]> 376 Jae 3963248637 Jay 0 4.14 Bachelorette Number Twelve
author: Jae
name: Jay
average rating: 4.14
book published:
rating: 0
read at: 2024/12/01
date added: 2025/01/09
shelves: enemies-lovers, audioook, grumpy-sunshine
review:

]]> Ribbonwood 218078948
Ollie Gabrielli left Ribbonwood right after high school, back when Lara was her arch-nemesis. The queen bee and the closeted soccer star: natural enemies. When she comes home for three months it's to recover from burnout and spend time with her chaotic family, not to reconnect with old classmates. Only somehow, she can’t seem to take her eyes off Lara. How did she only get hotter? And is she really everything they say she is?

Sometimes, there’s a reason you should never try to go home.]]> 406 Ruby Landers 0648640280 Jay 0 to-read 4.59 Ribbonwood
author: Ruby Landers
name: Jay
average rating: 4.59
book published:
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2024/12/25
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> Can't Buy Me Love 199502600
Tennyson Securities protects the rich and famous, and Kayla Tennyson built it from the ground up. She has more money than she can spend, but when you move in the circles she does, sorting through the fakes and finding someone honest and genuine is tough. She’d tried with Miranda Northbrooke, and it ended in disaster.

London isn’t sure what she expected of Miranda’s ex, but it certainly wasn’t icy beauty. And while Kayla would like to write London off as Miranda’s new plaything, she can’t get past how smart and funny she is. London and Kayla are perfect for one another, but if London reveals the ruse, she risks not only the opportunity of her career, but Kayla’s trust as well.]]> 240 Georgia Beers 1636796656 Jay 4 contemporary, audioook 3.80 2024 Can't Buy Me Love
author: Georgia Beers
name: Jay
average rating: 3.80
book published: 2024
rating: 4
read at: 2024/11/01
date added: 2024/12/25
shelves: contemporary, audioook
review:

]]> When You Smile 204482263
Now a transfer student at Hillspoint University, Taryn is ready to officially come out when she runs into a familiar face at a party. Charlie, now a grad student, insists on walking a drunk Taryn home. To the detriment of Taryn’s heart (and libido), Charlie has only grown kinder (and hotter) with time.

Charlie Adler has a five-year finish her MFA without any hiccups, figure out a timeline for her engagement, and become an acclaimed fiction writer. Easy, right? That is until Taryn shows up at Hillspoint and shakes up her world like a snow globe. This Taryn is soulful, brooding, and all grown up. Charlie’s never been attracted to a woman before, and isn’t dating your one-time charge against the rules? If only their toe-curling, mind-dulling, body-aching chemistry would calm the hell down.]]> 240 Melissa Brayden 1636796710 Jay 4 audioook, contemporary 3.82 2024 When You Smile
author: Melissa Brayden
name: Jay
average rating: 3.82
book published: 2024
rating: 4
read at: 2024/10/01
date added: 2024/12/25
shelves: audioook, contemporary
review:

]]> <![CDATA[Vengeance Planning for Amateurs]]> 204723575
Muffin maker Olivia Roberts has had it with her awful exes taking advantage of her good nature. The theft of her nana’s beloved stuffed penguin is the absolute last straw.

She puts up an ad at her local crime bookstore for a henchperson to help her enact a little mild revenge. To her astonishment, Margaret Blackwood, the mysterious, icy, and annoyingly opinionated bookstore owner, applies.

For two clever, capable women, they turn out to be woeful at vengeance. But much to their dismay, they discover they’re pretty good at falling in love!]]> 328 Lee Winter 3963248661 Jay 4 to-read 4/5

Well, what happens when Lee Winter adorns her comic hat? A fun ride is guaranteed. But honestly speaking, it never felt like there was a romance between the MCs. On second thought, did Lee even want to serve it as a romance? The friendship part was more palpable, though.

Anyways, when it is Lee Winter, two things are guaranteed: a solid story and well-formed characters.]]> 4.43 2024 Vengeance Planning for Amateurs
author: Lee Winter
name: Jay
average rating: 4.43
book published: 2024
rating: 4
read at: 2024/11/01
date added: 2024/12/23
shelves: to-read
review:
4/5

Well, what happens when Lee Winter adorns her comic hat? A fun ride is guaranteed. But honestly speaking, it never felt like there was a romance between the MCs. On second thought, did Lee even want to serve it as a romance? The friendship part was more palpable, though.

Anyways, when it is Lee Winter, two things are guaranteed: a solid story and well-formed characters.
]]> Taming of a Rebel 209947225 Do you believe in soulmates?

Tori Frazee is unapologetic when it comes to falling in love before she’s thirty. When her marriage ended amicably, she knew she had to get back into the game to find her soulmate and have the family she wanted. Running face first into a cold but frazzled funeral director and a rebellious toddler at the grocery store isn’t how she expected to find love, and Miranda certainly isn’t her soulmate. Or is she?

Miranda Hart doesn’t believe in love. When she’s saddled with her flakey sister’s kid, she has a choice to make—step up to break the cycle and keep her niece from being another victim or continue to live through her work. When she meets the cute, down to earth Tori, she can’t help but wonder if maybe she does want more than her career.

When opposites attract, steam rises, especially with an ice queen in the mix. Will these two single parents break down their preconceived notions enough to find a family they can rely on?

If you love sensual, steamy age gap, ice queen, sapphic/lesbian romances, then this is the book for you.]]> 394 Eada Friesian 1960221221 Jay 3 3.97 Taming of a Rebel
author: Eada Friesian
name: Jay
average rating: 3.97
book published:
rating: 3
read at: 2024/12/01
date added: 2024/12/23
shelves: agegap, audioook, icequeen, wlw
review:

]]> Make Her Wish Come True 200220108
Abby Baxter’s burning ambition to be a reporter gets a boost when her journalist friend offers her a deal: Fake-date a woman for a story she’s writing on finding love, and she’ll swing Abby a co-writing credit. It’s a dream come true after so long looking for her big break. For years, life and raising her half-sister have gotten in the way.

Erica Goode works two jobs while all her spare energies are focused on her eight-year-old daughter. She would love a social life, but who has time? A deal to be wined and dined if she fakes a relationship sounds fun. Although, it’d help if she wasn’t attracted to her date quite so much. Oh, and if the woman wasn’t averse to children. Really, there’s no way anything can come of it. Right?

Is it possible to get what you wish for, if you’re willing to give it a try?]]> 334 A.L. Brooks 3963248076 Jay 4 shamance, wlw 4.14 2023 Make Her Wish Come True
author: A.L. Brooks
name: Jay
average rating: 4.14
book published: 2023
rating: 4
read at: 2024/11/01
date added: 2024/12/23
shelves: shamance, wlw
review:

]]> The View from the Top 75386277 When a driven businesswoman from Boston collides with a free-spirited artist on a Vermont mountainside, they share a memorable—and steamy—night, but life soon pits them against each other over the fate of a family business.

Emily Janssen prefers to play it safe. At thirty-five, she’s still working at the inn her grandmothers own while dreaming of a day when she’s able to support herself fully with her art. And while her friends have all hiked to the summit of the mountain in their hometown of Crescent Falls, Vermont, something has always held Emily back.

Diana Devlin has already made it to the top. Well, almost. She’s this close to securing the promotion that will put her in line to take over as CEO of her family’s hotel chain when her father retires. Everything is going to plan until an unexpected run-in with an alluring artist on a mountainside throws Diana off course, resulting in one of the hottest nights either she or Emily have ever experienced.

Emily walks away from their rendezvous feeling inspired to channel some of Diana’s confidence and finally chase her dreams. For Diana, it’s a reminder that with the right woman, she is capable of wanting more than one night.

But their growing passion threatens to burn them both when they learn that the hotel Diana’s in town to buy is none other than Emily’s grandmothers� beloved inn. It’s Emily’s home, and no big city outsider—not even Diana—is going to take it away from her.

Will the view from the top be worth the climb, or will they both have farther to fall?]]> 386 Rachel Lacey Jay 4 audioook, wlw, slow-burn 4.19 The View from the Top
author: Rachel Lacey
name: Jay
average rating: 4.19
book published:
rating: 4
read at: 2024/11/01
date added: 2024/12/23
shelves: audioook, wlw, slow-burn
review:

]]> <![CDATA[Falls From Grace (Grace Notes #1)]]> 206175482
Brynn Marshall is a little lost. Dropping out of med school made her the black sheep of the family and now she’s floating around LA trying to find a sense of purpose. When she falls down on her luck, her best friend - indie musician Noah Lyman - refuses to let her wallow. After all, he’s just got his big break, co-writing with a megastar!

When Savannah enlists Noah to help her break out of country music and make a name for herself for once and for all, what better way to do it than to spend the winter in her secluded vacation home in the woods of Vermont? And what better way for Noah to help out a friend than to pretend he’s bringing along his wife?

After all, what could possibly go wrong?

If you would appreciate any content warnings please check my website]]> 438 Ruby Landers 0648640205 Jay 4 3.75/5

First of all, Quinn Riley is just outstanding! I took a chance with this book just because it was narrated by Quinn, but when I started listening, I was equally drawn to the storyline. It's a celebrity story. The storytelling is slow but steady. The MCs are well-written. The chemistry between the MCs feels authentic. The attraction, the teasing moments—everything is very organic until the break-up. Well, if it was at all a break-up, because both Savannah and Brynn were not ready to address the elephant in the room. And why did they break up, btw? Ah, that flimsy reason and Savannah's unreasonably dogged behavior? I mean, come on... was this even a reason to drag the issue for almost a year?! I didn't buy it.

Well, there were a couple of sex scenes, and that too almost after 90% of the story. Yes, there could have been some intimacy earlier, but that never felt like a big miss.

Overall, it is a nice slow burn (with some loose ends) to listen to.]]> 4.44 Falls From Grace (Grace Notes #1)
author: Ruby Landers
name: Jay
average rating: 4.44
book published:
rating: 4
read at: 2024/12/01
date added: 2024/12/23
shelves: audioook, celebrity, slow-burn, ff-romance
review:
3.75/5

First of all, Quinn Riley is just outstanding! I took a chance with this book just because it was narrated by Quinn, but when I started listening, I was equally drawn to the storyline. It's a celebrity story. The storytelling is slow but steady. The MCs are well-written. The chemistry between the MCs feels authentic. The attraction, the teasing moments—everything is very organic until the break-up. Well, if it was at all a break-up, because both Savannah and Brynn were not ready to address the elephant in the room. And why did they break up, btw? Ah, that flimsy reason and Savannah's unreasonably dogged behavior? I mean, come on... was this even a reason to drag the issue for almost a year?! I didn't buy it.

Well, there were a couple of sex scenes, and that too almost after 90% of the story. Yes, there could have been some intimacy earlier, but that never felt like a big miss.

Overall, it is a nice slow burn (with some loose ends) to listen to.
]]> Make the Season Bright 206180603
It's been five years since Charlotte Donovan was ditched at the altar by her ex-fiancée, and she’s doing more than okay. Sure, her single mother never checks in, but she has her strings ensemble, the Rosalind Quartet, and her life in New York is a dream come true. As the holidays draw near, her ensemble mate Sloane persuades Charlotte and the rest of the quartet to spend Christmas with her family in Colorado—it is much cozier and quieter than Manhattan, and it would guarantee more practice time for the quartet’s upcoming tour. But when Charlotte arrives, she discovers that Sloane’s sister Adele also brought a friend home—and that friend is none other than her ex, Brighton. All Brighton Fairbrook wanted was to have the holliest, jolliest Christmas—and try to forget that her band kicked her out. But instead, she’s stuck pretending like she and her ex are strangers—which proves to be difficult when Sloane and Adele’s mom signs them all up for a series of Christmas dating events. Charlotte and Brighton are soon entrenched in horseback riding and cookie decorating, but Charlotte still won’t talk to her. Brighton can hardly blame her after what she did. After a few days, however, things start to slip through. Memories. Music. The way they used to play together—Brighton on guitar, Charlotte on her violin—and it all feels painfully familiar. But it’s all in the past and nothing can melt the ice in their hearts...right?]]> 342 Ashley Herring Blake 0593550595 Jay 4 3.75/5

I have listened to the entire Bright Falls series, so I was anticipating the same magnificent storytelling. Well, the storytelling is magnificent, but I really didn't understand the plot. Why did both of the MCs assume so much? Why, being best friends for so long, didn't they talk about their feelings? And why did one of them decide to flee the scene at the eleventh hour, hell, at the last minute before the twelfth hour? Ugh, there are so many whys, and I'm not convinced. ☹️]]> 3.60 2024 Make the Season Bright
author: Ashley Herring Blake
name: Jay
average rating: 3.60
book published: 2024
rating: 4
read at: 2024/12/01
date added: 2024/12/23
shelves: audioook, contemporary, freinds-enemies-lovers, wlw
review:
3.75/5

I have listened to the entire Bright Falls series, so I was anticipating the same magnificent storytelling. Well, the storytelling is magnificent, but I really didn't understand the plot. Why did both of the MCs assume so much? Why, being best friends for so long, didn't they talk about their feelings? And why did one of them decide to flee the scene at the eleventh hour, hell, at the last minute before the twelfth hour? Ugh, there are so many whys, and I'm not convinced. ☹️
]]> Might as Well Be an Ocean 222708372 When a heart chooses frost over fire, can true love’s warmth still find a way in?

Mara Davies learned early to keep her heart on ice. Abandoned by her mother, she raised herself while her father drowned his grief in alcohol. Everything changed when she met Fayth Havens, the one person who truly sees her and accepts everything that makes Mara her overstimulated mind, wandering thoughts, even her comfort in a pair of worn-out Family Guy pajamas, holes in the ass and all.

Now approaching their thirties, Mara and Fayth are best friends, though unspoken desires simmer just beneath the surface. When they strike a “friends with benefits� pact, Mara risks everything for a connection that burns hotter than she ever expected.

A twist of fate—and a piece of cake—lead to a fake engagement, forcing Mara and Fayth into an intimate tangle of buried truths. As misunderstandings threaten to pull them apart, Mara feels the distance between them might as well be an ocean. Can she open her heart to the love she’s convinced herself isn’t meant for her?

Might as Well Be an Ocean is a sapphic romance about chosen family and the healing power of love—because sometimes, a little Fayth is all it takes to melt the ice.]]> 266 Kellan McKnight Jay 5 "Might as well be an Ocean" is a high-octane romance, to say the least. The characters are gray, like us, and therefore relatable. I have so many thoughts swirling in my mind regarding the story, which prompts me to write this review.

First of all, a big shout-out to Ms. McKnight for creating such flesh-and-bone characters. Oh my god, where do I even start? From Mara Davis to Nita Patel, each character is beautifully crafted. But my favorite is Mara Davis. Oh boy! Ms. McKnight has breathed life into her. A person grappling with huge abandonment issues and being neurodivergent, Mara struggles to accept happiness, hence those lofty ice walls around her. At times, readers may want to shake her to infuse some sense into her. She's as stubborn as a rhino and a pain in the arse for Fayth Havens and us. But one can't hate her; on the contrary, Mara will garner readers' sympathy. Her overly traumatized childhood (or absolute absence of it) shaped her into the adult Mara.

This book is written from the first-person POV, so we get to know Mara Davis up close and personal. It is as if we are walking with Mara Davis side by side, experiencing and understanding life with her. But all said and done, Mara Davis is crystal clear about one thing—she loves Fayth Havens. The North Star of Mara's life, the anchor to her drifting ship, is Fayth Havens.

This brings me to discuss the second MC, Fayth Havens. It has been properly established that Fayth also loves Mara deeply and is very patient with her, but sometimes I couldn't wrap my head around some of her actions (though I do understand that with Mara, she was walking on eggshells)... Especially her stance regarding Derrick, who was a bully to Mara. Given the fact that Fayth knew Mara like she knows the back of her hand... then why? So, I can't say I fully understand Fayth Havens, although I would like to cut her some slack; it was never easy to stick with Mara, a raging rhino. Of course, in the latter part of the story, I see Fayth rise above her usual self and tackle the bull by the horns. Anyway, we've been promised to get to know Fayth properly in the next release. So, keeping my fingers crossed... Fayth Havens... I am waiting to hear your part of the tale. ]]> 4.17 2024 Might as Well Be an Ocean
author: Kellan McKnight
name: Jay
average rating: 4.17
book published: 2024
rating: 5
read at: 2024/12/01
date added: 2024/12/22
shelves: contemporary, friends-lovers, grumpy-sunshine, high-angst
review:
"Might as well be an Ocean" is a high-octane romance, to say the least. The characters are gray, like us, and therefore relatable. I have so many thoughts swirling in my mind regarding the story, which prompts me to write this review.

First of all, a big shout-out to Ms. McKnight for creating such flesh-and-bone characters. Oh my god, where do I even start? From Mara Davis to Nita Patel, each character is beautifully crafted. But my favorite is Mara Davis. Oh boy! Ms. McKnight has breathed life into her. A person grappling with huge abandonment issues and being neurodivergent, Mara struggles to accept happiness, hence those lofty ice walls around her. At times, readers may want to shake her to infuse some sense into her. She's as stubborn as a rhino and a pain in the arse for Fayth Havens and us. But one can't hate her; on the contrary, Mara will garner readers' sympathy. Her overly traumatized childhood (or absolute absence of it) shaped her into the adult Mara.

This book is written from the first-person POV, so we get to know Mara Davis up close and personal. It is as if we are walking with Mara Davis side by side, experiencing and understanding life with her. But all said and done, Mara Davis is crystal clear about one thing—she loves Fayth Havens. The North Star of Mara's life, the anchor to her drifting ship, is Fayth Havens.

This brings me to discuss the second MC, Fayth Havens. It has been properly established that Fayth also loves Mara deeply and is very patient with her, but sometimes I couldn't wrap my head around some of her actions (though I do understand that with Mara, she was walking on eggshells)... Especially her stance regarding Derrick, who was a bully to Mara. Given the fact that Fayth knew Mara like she knows the back of her hand... then why? So, I can't say I fully understand Fayth Havens, although I would like to cut her some slack; it was never easy to stick with Mara, a raging rhino. Of course, in the latter part of the story, I see Fayth rise above her usual self and tackle the bull by the horns. Anyway, we've been promised to get to know Fayth properly in the next release. So, keeping my fingers crossed... Fayth Havens... I am waiting to hear your part of the tale.
]]> The Unfinished Line 219836117 Jen Lyon, award-winning author of The Senator’s Wife, brings another intricately woven world of nuanced characters, solidifying herself as a skilled storyteller of women’s fiction.

When Kameryn Kingsbury lands one of the most coveted roles in cinema history, she’s certain it’s the most monumental thing that’s ever happened to her—until a twist of fate introduces her to Dillon Sinclair.

Dillon is unlike anyone Kam has ever bold, certain of herself, and fiercely driven by an ambition that has skyrocketed her to the top of her career. A famed British triathlete who remains on a quest to secure the one accolade she’s yet to an Olympic gold medal.

The connection between the two women is intense and unexpected, challenging Kam’s understanding of herself as she’s drawn into a relationship with Dillon. From the Hawaiian islands to the Santa Monica Pier, to the tropical paradise of the Keys, and the tranquil coast of Wales, a love story begins to unfold.

But when Dillon’s turbulent past collides with Kam’s overnight fame, the challenges escalate and the pressure of the relationship is heightened.

The Unfinished Line unravels a heartachingly beautiful story set amidst the arduous world of elite sports and the unrelenting limelight of Hollywood. Dillon and Kam’s journey explores the power of love, the sacrifices made to achieve success, and the dangers of reaching for perfection.



Content warning: This book contains topics and themes some readers may find difficult, including struggles with mental health, discussions of suicide, and references to past sexual trauma.]]> 429 Jen Lyon Jay 5 I don't want to rate this masterpiece. This book is an amazing experience.

I finished The Unfinished Line two weeks ago, and since then I've been wondering whether I finished the book or if this damn book finished me! Let me tell you, readers—those yet to read—it is not just any run-of-the-mill love story. This is a journey of two beautifully crafted main characters who see life through two very different lenses. As readers, we walk alongside them to share their love, their pain, and everything that comes with life.

So, why am I writing this review so late? Because this book left me with a void that needed time to fill up—or maybe it never will. I could still remember, after finishing this book, I cried so hard that I couldn't breathe for a few moments. Even today, as I write my view, my eyes well up remembering the last line of Scene 53, Take 2. In short, it's crushing. It will rip out your heart and stomp on it like it's nothing.

I am accustomed to Jen's rich writing style. And let me tell you, I have an enormous fictional character crush on Catherine and Amelia Walker. With UFL, it has to be Dillion Sinclair. Her characterisation is just outstanding—so very flesh and blood. There was never a moment while reading when I thought, "Oh, this is just a fictional character..."

This is mainly the story of a highly ambitious individual who is so very tunnel-visioned when it comes to her sport. I'm not discussing the whys because that would give away too many spoilers.

On the other hand, Kameryn Kingsbury is everything Dillion is not. Perhaps that keeps them glued together until, of course...
Kameryn Kingsbury is a breath of fresh air for Dillion and for us. She is what makes this highly charged narrative breathable. If I am in awe of Dillion, then I am in love with Kam. Her helplessness in front of Dillion's doggedness felt so palpable. And I hate Dillion for Take 1. Why? Why couldn't she see beyond her ambition? Why couldn't she accept that life is far more interesting with someone like Kam by her side? How could she be so selfish? Yes, Ms. Lyon, from where I stand (as far as Take 1 is concerned), I would say she acted selfishly. She constantly shut down Kam and never actually wanted to address the black hole inside her, [spoilers removed]

Before this review goes out of hand, I would like to say this is an amazingly written story, and one shouldn't restrict oneself from reading this masterpiece just because it falls under the Sapphic genre. Jen Lyon is a master storyteller. Period. Though my rational brain understands that Take 1 is 'THE END', my heart never agrees with it. One reason being, I couldn't accept Kam's torment. Her defeat to hold Dillion, to hold them. I couldn't see her swallowing the fact that she was not enough for Dillion, [spoilers removed]

My only disagreement is that Take 2 seemed too late and too little after the devastation that Take 1 brought to me.

My parting thought is this: life is a movie with no scope for "should have been," so we must spend it wisely and sometimes ponder the devastation we might cause by simply not considering those who tag along with us, no matter what.

If this review makes any sense to you, please read this book.

]]> 4.65 2024 The Unfinished Line
author: Jen Lyon
name: Jay
average rating: 4.65
book published: 2024
rating: 5
read at: 2024/11/01
date added: 2024/12/02
shelves: devastatingly-beautiful, celebrity, high-angst
review:
I don't want to rate this masterpiece. This book is an amazing experience.

I finished The Unfinished Line two weeks ago, and since then I've been wondering whether I finished the book or if this damn book finished me! Let me tell you, readers—those yet to read—it is not just any run-of-the-mill love story. This is a journey of two beautifully crafted main characters who see life through two very different lenses. As readers, we walk alongside them to share their love, their pain, and everything that comes with life.

So, why am I writing this review so late? Because this book left me with a void that needed time to fill up—or maybe it never will. I could still remember, after finishing this book, I cried so hard that I couldn't breathe for a few moments. Even today, as I write my view, my eyes well up remembering the last line of Scene 53, Take 2. In short, it's crushing. It will rip out your heart and stomp on it like it's nothing.

I am accustomed to Jen's rich writing style. And let me tell you, I have an enormous fictional character crush on Catherine and Amelia Walker. With UFL, it has to be Dillion Sinclair. Her characterisation is just outstanding—so very flesh and blood. There was never a moment while reading when I thought, "Oh, this is just a fictional character..."

This is mainly the story of a highly ambitious individual who is so very tunnel-visioned when it comes to her sport. I'm not discussing the whys because that would give away too many spoilers.

On the other hand, Kameryn Kingsbury is everything Dillion is not. Perhaps that keeps them glued together until, of course...
Kameryn Kingsbury is a breath of fresh air for Dillion and for us. She is what makes this highly charged narrative breathable. If I am in awe of Dillion, then I am in love with Kam. Her helplessness in front of Dillion's doggedness felt so palpable. And I hate Dillion for Take 1. Why? Why couldn't she see beyond her ambition? Why couldn't she accept that life is far more interesting with someone like Kam by her side? How could she be so selfish? Yes, Ms. Lyon, from where I stand (as far as Take 1 is concerned), I would say she acted selfishly. She constantly shut down Kam and never actually wanted to address the black hole inside her, [spoilers removed]

Before this review goes out of hand, I would like to say this is an amazingly written story, and one shouldn't restrict oneself from reading this masterpiece just because it falls under the Sapphic genre. Jen Lyon is a master storyteller. Period. Though my rational brain understands that Take 1 is 'THE END', my heart never agrees with it. One reason being, I couldn't accept Kam's torment. Her defeat to hold Dillion, to hold them. I couldn't see her swallowing the fact that she was not enough for Dillion, [spoilers removed]

My only disagreement is that Take 2 seemed too late and too little after the devastation that Take 1 brought to me.

My parting thought is this: life is a movie with no scope for "should have been," so we must spend it wisely and sometimes ponder the devastation we might cause by simply not considering those who tag along with us, no matter what.

If this review makes any sense to you, please read this book.


]]> <![CDATA[Relinquishing Control (Dominion)]]> 212015551 358 J.J. Arias Jay 4 audioook 4.59 Relinquishing Control (Dominion)
author: J.J. Arias
name: Jay
average rating: 4.59
book published:
rating: 4
read at: 2024/10/01
date added: 2024/11/11
shelves: audioook
review:
As much as I liked the fighting for control, I can't say the same thing for this one. It felt slightly dragged and monotonous somewhere in the middle of the story. Though it was quite refreshing to read a romance between two women who were nearing their 50s.
]]> Destination You 63849297 Fantasy Becomes Reality in this Super Steamy Age-Gap, Ice Queen Romance
When 27-year-old free-spirit Taylor Lopez flies back to Miami to attend her high school reunion, she doesn’t expect to run into Mrs. Alonso � her former history teacher � at the airport. The fact that Taylor’s crush on the intense woman comes roaring back to life is not a surprise, but she wasn’t expecting the attraction to go both ways.
Raquel Alonso’s life is too full for romance. Back in Miami to receive an award from the students she taught a decade earlier, the 46-year-old intends on using the rare weekend away to relax. Her plan is disrupted by her undeniable, and inappropriate, chemistry with Taylor.
Unable to stay away from each other, Raquel and Taylor give in to lust. But what happens when it’s time to say goodbye? Can Raquel really keep pretending their time together was just a fling?
If you like super steamy age-gaps hot enough to melt even the coldest ice queen, you’ll love this provocative romance with a ton of heart.]]> 337 J.J. Arias Jay 4 agegap, audioook, slow-burn 4.48 2022 Destination You
author: J.J. Arias
name: Jay
average rating: 4.48
book published: 2022
rating: 4
read at:
date added: 2024/11/11
shelves: agegap, audioook, slow-burn
review:

]]> <![CDATA[Rescuing Hearts (The Healing Hearts, #1)]]> 62869460 When blocking out pain means never allowing yourself to be loved, can you really believe you are living?

For Kristi Ivers, a forty-four year old flight attendant, life has proved itself to be unfair. By her twenties she’d already had more than her share of pain. Alone and unable to process the ache of loss she finds in stillness, Kristi’s life has become a busy throng of perpetual movement. Between work, travel and volunteering at Corazon De Las Colina, a dog shelter in central Costa Rica, she believes she has a full and happy life…until one fateful flight to San José.

Fenna Vargas, is a pediatric surgeon who has just completed her neonatal fellowship, and has the world at her feet. With the support of a large family headed up by her Nicaraguan grandmother, Yaya, Fenna believes in love. All you have to do is be bold and passionate� But is life really that easy?

Can Fenna’s belief in all that is good break down the lifetime of barriers upon which Kristi has built her life? Will the optimism of youth be enough to overpower the sage lessons of reality?

This is an age gap sapphic novel of lesbian romance, which embodies the love of animals and the wisdom of Nicaraguan grandmothers.

Prepare to be enchanted.]]> 272 Ruby Scott Jay 5 to-read 4.53 Rescuing Hearts (The Healing Hearts, #1)
author: Ruby Scott
name: Jay
average rating: 4.53
book published:
rating: 5
read at: 2024/05/01
date added: 2024/10/05
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> <![CDATA[Tempting Olivia (Oxford Romance Book 2)]]> 208911367
But, when the actor walks into Olivia’s office with a bag full of divorce and a messy personal life, that perfect bubble bursts. Kate seems nothing like the screen goddesses she plays, and Olivia must put aside her comfort viewing and handle the case like the true professional she is.

It requires secrecy, especially with indiscreet friends. Will best-friend Charlotte ever read the room? And will Millie, who instantly reads the room, ever stop commenting loudly?

And Kate? She doesn’t know what to think about this frosty lawyer. But she needs a quick divorce from a mistake of a marriage, which was over before it started, and Olivia Sachdeva is the best.

But little by little, Olivia and Kate glimpse behind the mask, to find someone they weren’t looking for, who may not even be perfect, but might be the right person for them.

Read as a stand-alone romance or book two of the Oxford Romance series.]]> 404 Clare Ashton Jay 4 grumpy-sunshine, slow-burn 4.50 Tempting Olivia (Oxford Romance Book 2)
author: Clare Ashton
name: Jay
average rating: 4.50
book published:
rating: 4
read at: 2024/09/28
date added: 2024/10/05
shelves: grumpy-sunshine, slow-burn
review:

]]> The Art of Us 35335057 Alexandra Woodson was guarded, a nineteen-year-old orphan set on a bright future in hospitality administration. She never imagined an art student with a penchant for cheesy pick-up lines and stealing parking spaces would crack her rigid exterior and claim her heart.
For four years, theirs was an enviable love—evergreen and growing. Unbreakable�
Until it broke.
Now, after five years on the opposite side of the country, Alex’s work brings her back to Boston. When, by chance, they meet again, Charlee and Alex are swept up in a whirlwind of heart-rending history, tossed between past and present, and lovers old and new. Will their lingering connection be enough to convince them that some loves are meant to last? Or should the past remain in the past?

79,500 words]]> 218 K.L. Hughes 3955338924 Jay 4 4.5/5

The Art of Us was an overwhelming read for me. I am not in the right headspace to write something analytical, yet here I am, sharing my views on this emotionally draining book. I can’t remember the last time I felt like such an emotional wreck after reading a book. I almost lost count of how many times my vision blurred; I felt so heavy in my chest. It’s sappy, folks.

The story grabs me by the neck from the first paragraph. Alexandra Woodson, a valedictorian medal holder, had little idea that she would fall for an eighteen-year-old art student who has a penchant for cheesy pickup lines. That Charlee Parker would crack her icy exterior and proclaim her heart� forever. Though I really felt for Chris and Kari, the moment Alex met Charlee at the exhibition and locked eyes, it was game over for both of them. Alex and Charlee both wanted to play it right, but the heart wants what it wants, and you have to hurt people to make your story right.

This book constantly throws us between the past and the present to show that every current action has its roots in Alex and Charlee's past. The author was successful in her attempt to keep us glued to our seats on this roller-coaster ride. The storytelling was superb, with great character development, including the side characters. I especially want to know more about Vinny. Dude, she was hilarious and practical.

But... I have one issue with the story. It could have been trimmed by two or three chapters because, after a certain point, it felt a tad dragged out unnecessarily. Especially Alex's indecisiveness was drawn out longer than I would have liked.

All said and done, this book is very good for die-hard romantics. As I mentioned earlier, it’s very emotional—a tearjerker, to be precise.

My final thought about the book: sometimes we read books that reflect our own journeys, and we always see a piece of ourselves in those pages. That’s why they feel so close to our hearts.]]> 4.19 2017 The Art of Us
author: K.L. Hughes
name: Jay
average rating: 4.19
book published: 2017
rating: 4
read at: 2024/09/01
date added: 2024/09/20
shelves: favourites, friends-lovers, slow-burn
review:
4.5/5

The Art of Us was an overwhelming read for me. I am not in the right headspace to write something analytical, yet here I am, sharing my views on this emotionally draining book. I can’t remember the last time I felt like such an emotional wreck after reading a book. I almost lost count of how many times my vision blurred; I felt so heavy in my chest. It’s sappy, folks.

The story grabs me by the neck from the first paragraph. Alexandra Woodson, a valedictorian medal holder, had little idea that she would fall for an eighteen-year-old art student who has a penchant for cheesy pickup lines. That Charlee Parker would crack her icy exterior and proclaim her heart� forever. Though I really felt for Chris and Kari, the moment Alex met Charlee at the exhibition and locked eyes, it was game over for both of them. Alex and Charlee both wanted to play it right, but the heart wants what it wants, and you have to hurt people to make your story right.

This book constantly throws us between the past and the present to show that every current action has its roots in Alex and Charlee's past. The author was successful in her attempt to keep us glued to our seats on this roller-coaster ride. The storytelling was superb, with great character development, including the side characters. I especially want to know more about Vinny. Dude, she was hilarious and practical.

But... I have one issue with the story. It could have been trimmed by two or three chapters because, after a certain point, it felt a tad dragged out unnecessarily. Especially Alex's indecisiveness was drawn out longer than I would have liked.

All said and done, this book is very good for die-hard romantics. As I mentioned earlier, it’s very emotional—a tearjerker, to be precise.

My final thought about the book: sometimes we read books that reflect our own journeys, and we always see a piece of ourselves in those pages. That’s why they feel so close to our hearts.
]]> It's All About Bex 211890236 Old grudges are the hardest to overcome, and the heaviest burden on new love.


Ellis Patterson can’t lie, the unexpected visit of her best friend’s auntie could be the most exciting thing that’s happened since Ellis drifted to this small town several months ago. She pictures Bex Naylor as a typical favourite eccentric, childless, probably flitting about in flowered dresses, burning sage.

But Bex defies every stereotype. Black leather on her long, slim body, motorcycle to match, Bex has been following the wind for a year. And when those bright green eyes lock with Ellis�, she feels like she’s died and gone to heaven.

Bex’s attraction to Ellis is instant and electrifying. Despite the younger woman’s butch appearance, there is a softness to her that Bex finds appealing. When she discovers how easy it is to make Ellis blush, Bex suspects making those dimpled cheeks bloom pink could become her favourite hobby while she’s back in town. But being home again is…complicated. The last thing she wants is to let old grudges and tangled family emotions touch Ellis� sweetness.

Though Bex can forgive, certain people will never forget. And one of them would like to see her gone—permanently.]]> 338 Melissa Tereze 1915242355 Jay 4 4.40 It's All About Bex
author: Melissa Tereze
name: Jay
average rating: 4.40
book published:
rating: 4
read at: 2024/04/01
date added: 2024/09/06
shelves:
review:

]]> Tryst Six Venom 54661258
𝑨𝒘𝒂𝒚 𝒈𝒂𝒎𝒆𝒔, 𝒃𝒂𝒄𝒌 𝒔𝒆𝒂𝒕𝒔, 𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒍𝒐𝒄𝒌𝒆𝒓 𝒓𝒐𝒐𝒎 𝒂𝒇𝒕𝒆𝒓 𝒉𝒐𝒖𝒓𝒔... 𝑮𝒆𝒕 𝒓𝒆𝒂𝒅𝒚!

𝘾𝙇𝘼𝙔

Marymount girls are good girls. We’re chaste, we’re untouched, and even if we weren’t, no one would know, because we keep our mouths shut.

Not that I have anything to share anyway. I never let guys go too far. I’m behaved.

Beautiful, smart, talented, popular, my skirt’s always pressed, and I never have a hair out of place. I own the hallways, walking tall on Monday and dropping to my knees like the good Catholic girl I am on Sunday.

That’s me. Always in control.

Or so they think. The truth is that it’s easy for me to resist them, because what I truly want, they can never be. Something soft and smooth. Someone dangerous and wild.

Unfortunately, what I want I have to hide. In the locker room after hours. In the bathroom stall between classes. In the showers after practice. 𝑀𝑦 ℎ𝑒𝑎� 𝑠𝑤𝑖𝑚𝑚𝑖𝑛𝑔. 𝑀𝑦 ℎ𝑎𝑛� 𝑢𝑝 ℎ𝑒� 𝑠𝑘𝑖𝑟𝑡.

For me, life is a web of secrets. No one can find out mine.

𝙊𝙇𝙄𝙄𝘼

I cross the tracks every day for one reason—to graduate from this school and get into the Ivy League. I’m not ashamed of where I come from, my family, or how everyone at Marymount thinks my skirts are too short and my lipstick is too red.

Clay Collins and her friends have always turned up their noses at me. The witch with her beautiful skin, clean shoes, and rich parents who torments me daily and thinks I won’t fight back.

At least not until I get her alone and find out she’s hiding so much more than just what’s underneath those pretty clothes.

The princess thinks I’ll scratch her itch. She thinks she’s still pure as long as it’s not a guy touching her.

I told her to stay on her side of town. I told her not to cross the tracks.

But one night, she did. And when I’m done with her, she’ll never be pure again.

*TRYST SIX VENOM is a standalone, new adult, bully romance suitable for readers 18+. It will release directly into Kindle Unlimited!]]> 589 Penelope Douglas Jay 4 3.80/5

Tryst Six Venom, also known as T6V, has been quite the wild ride for me. Despite being a young adult book, I didn't feel like a fish out of water diving into its world.

The main characters were incredibly well-developed, with Olivia Jaegar stealing the spotlight as my personal favorite. She was a rebel with a cause, confidently owning her identity. On the other hand, Clay's bullying behavior seemed like a front to hide her true self, even from herself. Both girls played the hate-game with no holds barred. Yes, there was plenty of bullying and hate-fu**, folks.

The dynamic between Liv and her brothers, especially Macon, was a standout for me. Liv needed a solid support system to truly flourish.

While the story was engaging, I did find it dragging a bit in the middle. Trimming a few pages could have kept the pace snappy. The hate-fueled game between the characters went on a tad too long, making the transition to head-over-heels love feel a bit delayed.

But did I enjoy it? Absolutely! Enemies-to-lovers is my guilty pleasure, and this book delivered one of the best enemies-to-lovers romances I've come across in recent memory.]]> 3.85 2021 Tryst Six Venom
author: Penelope Douglas
name: Jay
average rating: 3.85
book published: 2021
rating: 4
read at: 2024/06/01
date added: 2024/09/03
shelves:
review:
3.80/5

Tryst Six Venom, also known as T6V, has been quite the wild ride for me. Despite being a young adult book, I didn't feel like a fish out of water diving into its world.

The main characters were incredibly well-developed, with Olivia Jaegar stealing the spotlight as my personal favorite. She was a rebel with a cause, confidently owning her identity. On the other hand, Clay's bullying behavior seemed like a front to hide her true self, even from herself. Both girls played the hate-game with no holds barred. Yes, there was plenty of bullying and hate-fu**, folks.

The dynamic between Liv and her brothers, especially Macon, was a standout for me. Liv needed a solid support system to truly flourish.

While the story was engaging, I did find it dragging a bit in the middle. Trimming a few pages could have kept the pace snappy. The hate-fueled game between the characters went on a tad too long, making the transition to head-over-heels love feel a bit delayed.

But did I enjoy it? Absolutely! Enemies-to-lovers is my guilty pleasure, and this book delivered one of the best enemies-to-lovers romances I've come across in recent memory.
]]> Loser of the Year 212623625
St. Rita’s arrogant soccer coach Jillian Reed sees Mattie’s musical as an outrageous distraction for her champion players. When Jillian declares war, Mattie is far too stubborn to back down.

But as Mattie discovers there might be more to Jillian than spectacle, fire, and ego, she gets dangerously close to her iron-willed colleague. Can she avoid temptation? Or will the growing flame in Jillian’s dark eyes ignite them both?

An enemies-to-lovers, opposites attract lesbian romance about daring to take a risk, even if it burns you.]]> Carrie Byrd Jay 5
The story follows Mattie and Jillian. Jillian is the obnoxiously arrogant butch, while Mattie is the not-so-malleable femme. We see Jillian through Mattie's eyes, while I enjoyed her perspective, but I found myself wanting to see things from Jillian's point of view too, especially when she realizes she loves Mattie.

The book teaches us about starting over at a certain age, overcoming conditioning, and living life on our own terms. The writing flows smoothly, keeping the story engaging with witty dialogue and steamy moments.

Overall, The Loser of the Year was a fun and captivating read that kept me entertained from start to finish.]]> 4.41 Loser of the Year
author: Carrie Byrd
name: Jay
average rating: 4.41
book published:
rating: 5
read at: 2024/05/01
date added: 2024/09/02
shelves:
review:
I picked up The Loser of the Year out of curiosity, and honestly, I was a little skeptical at first. Enemies to Lovers is one of my favorite tropes, but I wasn't sure if this book would live up to my expectations. To my surprise, I was hooked from the very first page.

The story follows Mattie and Jillian. Jillian is the obnoxiously arrogant butch, while Mattie is the not-so-malleable femme. We see Jillian through Mattie's eyes, while I enjoyed her perspective, but I found myself wanting to see things from Jillian's point of view too, especially when she realizes she loves Mattie.

The book teaches us about starting over at a certain age, overcoming conditioning, and living life on our own terms. The writing flows smoothly, keeping the story engaging with witty dialogue and steamy moments.

Overall, The Loser of the Year was a fun and captivating read that kept me entertained from start to finish.
]]> <![CDATA[I Hate Her Less When She's Naked (The Beach Babes)]]> 213348841 Sister’s enemy, rock-star goddess, age gap—all rolled into a small-town romance. This steamy novel from the author of bestselling books like 'In a World of Our Own' and 'Fated to Love You' is a page-scorcher sure to get your hearts racing!

Sydney Moore, 23, a blonde bombshell, and sporting an unlucky streak so long it could rival her ex’s list of excuses. She’s back in Harbor Point—jobless, heartbroken, and bracing for the awkward family reunions. Home is where the heart is, sure, but it’s also where the grudges have taken root, particularly with her elder sister Claire, who still hasn't forgiven Sydney for her great escape when the going got tough. To top it off, their family’s beloved beach restaurant, Moore Waves, is under a rent siege by none other than Triss Frost—Claire's former BFF turned enemy and the infamous daughter of the man who won Sydney's family restaurant from her father in a gambling match when Sydney was just a child.

Enter Triss Frost, 33, a hot-as-hell rock goddess, clad in leather, and decorated with sexy tattoos that have their own Instagram pages. Known to the world as 'The Arrogant Bitch,' she’s back in town not for a nostalgia tour, but to face the music of her own rocky past. When Sydney crashes her doorstep to contest the skyrocketing rent, it isn’t just the old family feud that reignites. Triss, in a stroke of either genius or madness, offers Sydney a deal too intriguing to pass become her personal assistant, and she’ll slash the rent.

Thrust into each other’s daily orbits, Sydney and Triss navigate a labyrinth of fiery banter, intense glances, and emotions that run hotter than Triss’s guitar solos. As they grapple with their mounting lust and their penchant for butting heads, the looming question Can two people so wildly different find any common ground, or are they destined to clash like cymbals in a rock band?]]> 245 A. Goswami Jay 0 to-read 3.66 I Hate Her Less When She's Naked (The Beach Babes)
author: A. Goswami
name: Jay
average rating: 3.66
book published:
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2024/08/20
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> <![CDATA[A Lesbian's Guide to Women (A Lesbian’s Guide to Women Book 1)]]> 123839583
Brinley Adams loves women, but not commitment. She is more than happy picking up ladies at the bar she works at to have a little fun. When a hot blonde walks into her bar and completely fails to go home with the woman she came with, what choice does Brinley have but to take her under her wings?

Their arrangement is perfect - Brinley will teach Annalise everything she knows about pleasing a woman, and in turn, Brinley gets to have a little fun herself. Since neither of them are interested in any sort of commitment, what could possibly go wrong? It’s not like this is a romantic comedy.]]> 236 Erica Lee Jay 3 wlw, dnf 3/5

Basically, it's a fuck-fest fest with a wafer-thin plot. I DNF'd it after the 13th chapter. I tried to finish, but the mindless intimate scenes felt monotonous. It started on a funny note but failed to develop a coherent story. The main characters never build anything substantial to be considered as moving toward a relationship.]]> 4.27 2023 A Lesbian's Guide to Women (A Lesbian’s Guide to Women Book 1)
author: Erica Lee
name: Jay
average rating: 4.27
book published: 2023
rating: 3
read at: 2024/08/01
date added: 2024/08/13
shelves: wlw, dnf
review:
3/5

Basically, it's a fuck-fest fest with a wafer-thin plot. I DNF'd it after the 13th chapter. I tried to finish, but the mindless intimate scenes felt monotonous. It started on a funny note but failed to develop a coherent story. The main characters never build anything substantial to be considered as moving toward a relationship.
]]> <![CDATA[Aubrey McFadden Is Never Getting Married]]> 196057931
Aubrey, that’s who.

She’s going anyway, of course. It’s not her friends� fault her college boyfriend left Aubrey on the day of their wedding. Lies, selfishness, unhappy surprises…no, thank you. And you know who’s responsible for her permanently single status?

Monica, that’s who.

Their friends all say Monica Wallace had a thing for Aubrey back then—not that Aubrey cares one little bit why that still makes her heart race. Monica convinced her best friend Cody that marrying Aubrey, settling down, and locking himself into a 9-to-5 at the expense of his dreams would be a huge mistake. Cody called off the wedding, and Aubrey has never forgiven them.

Aubrey McFadden is never getting married, but she does have five weddings to attend, and she’ll be avoiding Monica at every single one.]]> 240 Georgia Beers 1636796133 Jay 4 audioook, enemies-lovers, wlw 4/5

"Aubrey McFadden is Never Getting Married" is truly a charming romance! It starts off with a solid prologue that immediately draws you in, setting the stage for an engaging storyline that takes you through six weddings before Aubrey finally finds her happily ever after. Georgia Beers really takes her time to explore why Aubrey wanted to escape from wedding ceremonies and avoid her nemesis, Monica Wallace, only to fail hilariously. The characters are well-developed, making it a pleasure to follow their journey, despite a few bumps along the road.

Listening to the audiobook narrated by Lula Larkin was a treat, but it left me contemplating a few things. Why does Aubrey view Cody as a sweetheart when he clearly isn't? I mean, the guy runs away from his own wedding and then starts interfering in Aubrey and Monica's affairs. What's up with that? In my humble opinion, Cody's character could benefit from more consistency.

The situation of Aubrey and Monica being college mate without any connection, despite sharing the same group of friends, is indeed puzzling. It raises questions about why their paths never crossed and why Aubrey seemed oblivious to Monica, especially when everyone in their circle of friends apparently knew about Monica's feelings for Aubrey. It's interesting how Aubrey remained unaware of Monica's feelings even though others in their social circle were aware of it.

And hold on, Monica, Cody's best friend, had no idea that Cody was going to be the father of their unborn child? That's quite surprising!

I wish we could have seen things from Monica's perspective as well. I'm still having such a crush on her.]]> 4.10 2024 Aubrey McFadden Is Never Getting Married
author: Georgia Beers
name: Jay
average rating: 4.10
book published: 2024
rating: 4
read at: 2024/05/01
date added: 2024/08/13
shelves: audioook, enemies-lovers, wlw
review:
4/5

"Aubrey McFadden is Never Getting Married" is truly a charming romance! It starts off with a solid prologue that immediately draws you in, setting the stage for an engaging storyline that takes you through six weddings before Aubrey finally finds her happily ever after. Georgia Beers really takes her time to explore why Aubrey wanted to escape from wedding ceremonies and avoid her nemesis, Monica Wallace, only to fail hilariously. The characters are well-developed, making it a pleasure to follow their journey, despite a few bumps along the road.

Listening to the audiobook narrated by Lula Larkin was a treat, but it left me contemplating a few things. Why does Aubrey view Cody as a sweetheart when he clearly isn't? I mean, the guy runs away from his own wedding and then starts interfering in Aubrey and Monica's affairs. What's up with that? In my humble opinion, Cody's character could benefit from more consistency.

The situation of Aubrey and Monica being college mate without any connection, despite sharing the same group of friends, is indeed puzzling. It raises questions about why their paths never crossed and why Aubrey seemed oblivious to Monica, especially when everyone in their circle of friends apparently knew about Monica's feelings for Aubrey. It's interesting how Aubrey remained unaware of Monica's feelings even though others in their social circle were aware of it.

And hold on, Monica, Cody's best friend, had no idea that Cody was going to be the father of their unborn child? That's quite surprising!

I wish we could have seen things from Monica's perspective as well. I'm still having such a crush on her.
]]> The Love Conspiracy 147710246 Could you fall in love with your husband’s mistress?

Forty-year-old Veronica Marin is a force to be reckoned with - a fierce trial lawyer who's always in control, including in her marriage to Gabe. But when a stranger shows up and exposes Gabe's infidelity, Veronica's reality is rocked. Her solution? To track down all of Gabe's unsuspecting partners before filing for divorce.

Twenty-seven-year-old yoga instructor Ally Franco has it all - a loving family, a thriving career, and a bright future. That is, until Veronica shows up and reveals the shocking truth about her fiancé Gabe.

As they work together to expose his secrets, Veronica and Ally uncover an undeniable attraction to each other. But will they risk everything for love, or stick to their safe, preconceived notions of what their lives should be?

The Love Conspiracy is a steamy, slow burn, sapphic, age-gap romance you won’t be able to put down. Join Veronica and Ally as they navigate love, betrayal, and self-discovery and learn that the greatest love stories come from the most unexpected places.

Content Infidelity is a theme in this novel, but neither main character is unfaithful. Gabe is the only cheater here. ]]> 417 J.J. Arias Jay 4 agegap, icequeen, slow-burn 4.75/5

"Love Conspiracy" by J.J. Arias paints a vivid picture of a unique romantic tale. It explores slightly uncharted territory by delving into the complexities of falling for a husband's mistress. While there are movies with similar plots, this story cleverly weaves its narrative, showcasing J.J.'s expertise in character development.

What sets J.J.'s books apart is her ability to delve deep into the reasons why two people fall for each other. The main characters take their time to understand each other, flaws and all, taking readers on a journey of discovery and love.

"Love Conspiracy" presents a slow burn romance that truly delivers. With one character as an ice-queen, captivating sex scenes, and memorable dialogues, the story truly comes to life. Veronica's character arc steals the show as she transforms throughout the narrative, adding depth to the storyline. The organic evolution of her relationship with Ally keeps readers engaged.

If I were to nitpick, I'd say that some pages could be trimmed, and age-gap dynamics aren't really my thing. However, the book is a treasure for those who appreciate an ice-queen protagonist, age-gap elements, and a beautifully written slow burn romance.]]> 4.47 The Love Conspiracy
author: J.J. Arias
name: Jay
average rating: 4.47
book published:
rating: 4
read at: 2024/08/01
date added: 2024/08/13
shelves: agegap, icequeen, slow-burn
review:
4.75/5

"Love Conspiracy" by J.J. Arias paints a vivid picture of a unique romantic tale. It explores slightly uncharted territory by delving into the complexities of falling for a husband's mistress. While there are movies with similar plots, this story cleverly weaves its narrative, showcasing J.J.'s expertise in character development.

What sets J.J.'s books apart is her ability to delve deep into the reasons why two people fall for each other. The main characters take their time to understand each other, flaws and all, taking readers on a journey of discovery and love.

"Love Conspiracy" presents a slow burn romance that truly delivers. With one character as an ice-queen, captivating sex scenes, and memorable dialogues, the story truly comes to life. Veronica's character arc steals the show as she transforms throughout the narrative, adding depth to the storyline. The organic evolution of her relationship with Ally keeps readers engaged.

If I were to nitpick, I'd say that some pages could be trimmed, and age-gap dynamics aren't really my thing. However, the book is a treasure for those who appreciate an ice-queen protagonist, age-gap elements, and a beautifully written slow burn romance.
]]> Forbidden Girl 212532088 She is your father’s deadliest rival. You’ve been taught to hate her. But what if you can’t resist her?

Jules

From the moment I learned my father was the head of the biggest crime family in Boston, I vowed I would never have anything to do with his “business.� Until Rowan.

When our eyes locked for the first time across that crowded room, her emerald eyes lit an unstoppable fire in me. And when she showed me the warm heart she’s hidden from the world, I knew I couldn’t live without her.

But there’s a twisted war between our rival families. Her father is taking out my loved ones like it’s a sport.

So, instead of running from their seedy underworld, I will stand and fight for her. Because now I finally understand what could drive a person to kill�

Rowan

At first, I just wanted to see if I could tempt the holier-than-thou daughter of my enemy, try the forbidden fruit. But Jules was nothing like the others. She made me work for it.

I’ve done bad, bad things as my father’s second-in-command. Things I’m not proud of. But she stripped all that guilt away.

I don’t have to watch my back with Jules. She is the only person who truly sees me. And I’m addicted.

But as the tension between our families reaches boiling point and more people get hurt, I know our time is running out. I’ll betray my own father to keep her safe�

But will it be enough?

Full of intense passion and irresistible desire, this wickedly steamy and gritty FF mafia romance is perfect for fans of Penelope Douglas, Sara Cate, J.T. Geissinger and Nicole Fox.

What readers are saying about Kristen

�Omg, I absolutely love, love, loved this book!!!� Amazing� Addictive page-turner� Really captivated my heart� Absolutely addictive, sexy, stunning romance.� Bookworm86, ⭐⭐⭐⭐�

�Such an amazing novel� Got me hooked from page one� A definite must-read!� All you could ever want in a book� I guarantee you won't be able to put it down.� ŷ Reviewer, ⭐⭐⭐⭐�

�WOW!!� Totally blew my mind and left me speechless.� Heidi Lynn’s Book Reviews, ⭐⭐⭐⭐�

�I couldn’t put it down� Every time I thought about taking a break, I wanted more� Had me hooked from beginning to end.� Jessica Belmont, ⭐⭐⭐⭐�

�BEST. BOOK. EVER. I swear� DO YOU KNOW HOW HARD IT IS TO FIND AN LGBT BOOK TO RELATE TO??? I DO!� Have suggested to literally all my friends. Read it. It's amazing!� ŷ reviewer, ⭐⭐⭐⭐�

�Breathtaking.]]> 265 Kristen Zimmer 1837903964 Jay 3 Steam quotient:]]> 3.81 Forbidden Girl
author: Kristen Zimmer
name: Jay
average rating: 3.81
book published:
rating: 3
read at: 2024/06/01
date added: 2024/08/09
shelves:
review:
Story: ⭐⭐�
Steam quotient:
]]> <![CDATA[Her Mafia Bride (Bianchi Family Duet #1)]]> 195567798 Juno Ruthless. Deadly. Glacial.
And oh, she makes me burn.When my Mob Boss father forces me into an arranged marriage with the billionaire heiress to the Bianchi Family, everything changes.

At first I resent being treated like a bargaining chip, but Juno captivates me in ways I've never known. Her Ice Queen facade hides a simmering volcano just waiting to be unleashed, and her commanding touch sets my body on fire.

But loving Juno could destroy me...

There are people out there who are just as dangerous as she is, and they won’t hesitate to use me to get to her.

With enemies closing in around us, can I trust my Mafia bride to keep me safe?

***

Opposites attract in this enemies to lovers romance as the reckless street-racing daughter of an Irish Mob Boss finds a way to defrost her Mafia Ice Queen wife.

This is a steamy F/F Mafia romance with some dark elements and a lot of angst. Content notes are available on the Copyright page.]]> 240 Persephone Black Jay 3 4.05 Her Mafia Bride (Bianchi Family Duet #1)
author: Persephone Black
name: Jay
average rating: 4.05
book published:
rating: 3
read at:
date added: 2024/08/08
shelves:
review:

]]> <![CDATA[Loyalty (Halcyon Division, #3)]]> 192793426
When Halcyon tells Lexie she’s the only person on Earth who can figure out the password to an important file, she realizes the new task is exactly what she needs. And after reconnecting with her girlfriend, Sophia, Lexie thinks she’s finally back on track. But as she tries to unlock Halcyon’s file, Lexie realizes things aren’t what they seem. And when secrets and betrayals are finally exposed, she’s stunned to realize who the enemy really is.

Loyalty is the exhilarating third installment of E. J. Noyes’s best-selling Halcyon Division Series.]]> E.J. Noyes 1642475408 Jay 5 thriller, wlw 4.50 Loyalty (Halcyon Division, #3)
author: E.J. Noyes
name: Jay
average rating: 4.50
book published:
rating: 5
read at: 2024/06/30
date added: 2024/06/30
shelves: thriller, wlw
review:

]]> Under the Rainbow 211793113 Love, revenge, and a quest for introspection collide in this gripping tale of two women battling each other inside a vast rainbow cavern. An enemies-to-lovers sapphic romance.

Devi Wallace, a model is fired from Chase Janice, an up-and-coming fashion company, and is mysteriously blacklisted from the industry. Unable to find another gig, Devi can’t pay rent and is evicted from her apartment. She must now stay with a friend who lives in the same gated community as her nemesis, Joleen Hunt.

Joleen Hunt would rather crunch numbers than attend social events. Hence, she allows her girlfriend, influencer Candice Delight to run her nightclub. When Candice dies of an overdose, Joleen blames her death on party-goer, Devi Wallace. Now and for every day Devi breathes, Joleen's mission is to destroy her.

When Devi and Joleen get locked alone inside a vast and colorful art installation the real battle between the two begins.]]> 277 D.A. Hartman Jay 3 ff-romance
The plot is good . There are neurodivergent characters and a dreamy world. I really like Goth's innocence and her friendship with Devi.

On the other hand, Joleen, one of the main characters, has been labeled 'icequeenish' many times, but I don't see any traits of her that are remotely icequeenish. To me, she comes across as highly delusional and childish.
The book needed a serious proof reading and of course it could have been trimmed by few pages.

Despite these, I would say, this book has its moments. The love making scenes are raw and passionate.]]> 4.13 Under the Rainbow
author: D.A. Hartman
name: Jay
average rating: 4.13
book published:
rating: 3
read at: 2024/06/01
date added: 2024/06/30
shelves: ff-romance
review:
This book has attempted to pack in too many things within its pages. Consequently, at one point, it became a little drawn out. The beginning is a bit chaotic in my opinion. Perhaps it's just me, but I really couldn't understand what was going on for at least 5-6 pages.

The plot is good . There are neurodivergent characters and a dreamy world. I really like Goth's innocence and her friendship with Devi.

On the other hand, Joleen, one of the main characters, has been labeled 'icequeenish' many times, but I don't see any traits of her that are remotely icequeenish. To me, she comes across as highly delusional and childish.
The book needed a serious proof reading and of course it could have been trimmed by few pages.

Despite these, I would say, this book has its moments. The love making scenes are raw and passionate.
]]> <![CDATA[Fighting for Control (Dominion, #2)]]> 195885616 When sparks fly between a tenacious talent agent and a sharp-witted lawyer, a heated rivalry transforms into an irresistible attraction in this sizzling enemies-to-lovers sapphic romance.

Lola Barros is a rising talent agent burning with ambition in Miami's glitzy entertainment world. Carmen Vargas is a dedicated lawyer poised to conquer the legal field, anchored by her family's prestigious firm. Their shared high-rise is the only thing these two powerhouses have in common—until a trivial parking mishap snowballs into a full-blown feud.

Facing eviction from their quirky billionaire landlord, Lola and Carmen are thrust into unconventional anger management sessions led by the landlord’s eccentric spiritual guide. Amidst a storm of unexpected encounters, their fiery rivalry gives way to smoldering desire.

But yielding to desire isn't straightforward. Between the shadows of demanding careers and familial expectations, their love is tested. Can Lola and Carmen find a balance between ambition and affection?

Fighting for Control delves deep into the hearts of two fierce women, exploring the electric tension when an unstoppable force meets an immovable heart.

Fighting for Control is the second book in the Dominion series. A steamy, sapphic series set in a Miami talent agency and centered on strong women and the ladies who can't resist them.]]> 352 J.J. Arias Jay 5 audioook 7/5

If Losing Control revealed J.J. Arias' storytelling prowess to me, Fighting for Control has made me a full-fledged fangirl. Losing Control was a sweet romance with just the right amount of drama, but Fighting for Control is an explosion—one that leaves you wanting more.

Lola, oh Lola...boy, she is a hot mess. Hot magma personified. She is one of the most stubborn fictional characters I've come across in recent times. But J.J. Arias makes sure we get to know her properly and thoroughly. She justifies that beneath that volcano lies a little girl scared of getting dumped by the people she thinks matter most. A little girl seeking a mother to assure her, give her an encouraging pat on the back. Lola is a traumatized child constantly living in survival mode, hence her defense mechanism of bulldozing everything that comes across her path.

Carmen, on the other hand, is a little more balanced. She, too, is heavily looking for approval from her mother. She's carrying the burden of living up to her family's legacy. Her character is snarky but more mature than Lola. She's also someone who wants to see what's beneath the surface of a person. So when she decides she wants to know Lola, she puts her heart on the line.
And If Lola is the raging bull, then Carmen is the most daring matador I've come across so far.(Though, no killing is there]]> 4.51 2023 Fighting for Control (Dominion, #2)
author: J.J. Arias
name: Jay
average rating: 4.51
book published: 2023
rating: 5
read at: 2024/06/01
date added: 2024/06/12
shelves: audioook
review:
7/5

If Losing Control revealed J.J. Arias' storytelling prowess to me, Fighting for Control has made me a full-fledged fangirl. Losing Control was a sweet romance with just the right amount of drama, but Fighting for Control is an explosion—one that leaves you wanting more.

Lola, oh Lola...boy, she is a hot mess. Hot magma personified. She is one of the most stubborn fictional characters I've come across in recent times. But J.J. Arias makes sure we get to know her properly and thoroughly. She justifies that beneath that volcano lies a little girl scared of getting dumped by the people she thinks matter most. A little girl seeking a mother to assure her, give her an encouraging pat on the back. Lola is a traumatized child constantly living in survival mode, hence her defense mechanism of bulldozing everything that comes across her path.

Carmen, on the other hand, is a little more balanced. She, too, is heavily looking for approval from her mother. She's carrying the burden of living up to her family's legacy. Her character is snarky but more mature than Lola. She's also someone who wants to see what's beneath the surface of a person. So when she decides she wants to know Lola, she puts her heart on the line.
And If Lola is the raging bull, then Carmen is the most daring matador I've come across so far.(Though, no killing is there
]]> Losing Control (Dominion, #1) 183934452 Losing Control will leave you breathless.

Strait-laced talent agent Adriana Ortiz’s world is rocked when she’s thrust into the tumultuous orbit of Roxy, the raw, enigmatic pop rebel with a notorious edge and a guarded heart.

Tasked with steering the wild Roxy on a whirlwind tour, Adriana boards Roxy’s opulent tour bus. The nights are filled with roaring crowds, but it’s the electric tension between Roxy and Adriana that sets the air on fire.

As they blaze through cities, the magnetic pull between them turns undeniable. A forbidden connection that threatens to consume them.

But for Roxy, who’s danced on the edge of fleeting passions and never let anyone through the barriers around her heart, the intensity is too real. Is she ready to take a chance on genuine intimacy?

Is the wild, unbridled Roxy worth the risk to Adriana’s career, or is she just another woman falling victim to Roxy’s charms?

Get hooked on this opposites-attract, forbidden, rockstar sapphic romance with sizzling chemistry.

Losing Control is the first book in the Dominion series. A steamy, sapphic series set in a Miami talent agency and centered on strong women and the ladies who can't resist them.]]> 350 J.J. Arias Jay 5 4.5/5

Before Losing Control I had never read a J.J. Arias book. It's a story about two polar opposite ladies: one as uptight as an iron rod and the other...well, she's a female Casanova. So, when they collide, fireworks are bound to happen.

Truth be told, I was a bit skeptical about the whole thing when the main characters seemed ready to get into each other's pants so fast. Yikes! But I decided to cling to it because the characters were very well-written, and the storytelling was awesome.

Adriana's transformation felt very natural. But it’s Roxxy (with the triple x) who’s the real revelation. She's like an onion—you need to peel back the layers to get to her soft core. Roxxy is vulnerable, which is why she took the easy route to protect her heart from being shattered by someone she might fall in love with.

The story progresses slowly, but there's never a dull moment. The author takes time to flesh out the main characters and the overall narrative. The drama unfolds very organically. Yet, if I have to nitpick, I’d say Adriana's dilemma about whether to let loose and confess her love to Roxxy took almost two-thirds of the book. In my humble opinion, that part could have been a bit shorter.

Overall, it’s a simple story told very skillfully.]]> 4.34 2023 Losing Control (Dominion, #1)
author: J.J. Arias
name: Jay
average rating: 4.34
book published: 2023
rating: 5
read at: 2024/06/01
date added: 2024/06/12
shelves:
review:
4.5/5

Before Losing Control I had never read a J.J. Arias book. It's a story about two polar opposite ladies: one as uptight as an iron rod and the other...well, she's a female Casanova. So, when they collide, fireworks are bound to happen.

Truth be told, I was a bit skeptical about the whole thing when the main characters seemed ready to get into each other's pants so fast. Yikes! But I decided to cling to it because the characters were very well-written, and the storytelling was awesome.

Adriana's transformation felt very natural. But it’s Roxxy (with the triple x) who’s the real revelation. She's like an onion—you need to peel back the layers to get to her soft core. Roxxy is vulnerable, which is why she took the easy route to protect her heart from being shattered by someone she might fall in love with.

The story progresses slowly, but there's never a dull moment. The author takes time to flesh out the main characters and the overall narrative. The drama unfolds very organically. Yet, if I have to nitpick, I’d say Adriana's dilemma about whether to let loose and confess her love to Roxxy took almost two-thirds of the book. In my humble opinion, that part could have been a bit shorter.

Overall, it’s a simple story told very skillfully.
]]> <![CDATA[Perfect Rhythm (Fair Oaks, #1)]]> 35335039 In her childhood home, she meets small-town nurse Holly Drummond, who isn’t impressed by Leo’s fame at all. That isn’t the only thing that makes Holly different from other women. She’s also asexual. For her, dating is a minefield of expectations that she has decided to avoid.
Can the tentative friendship between a burned-out pop star and a woman not interested in sex develop into something more despite their diverse expectations?
A lesbian romance about seeking the perfect rhythm between two very different people—and finding happiness where they least expect it.

Word Count: 107,000 words]]> 322 Jae 3955338649 Jay 4 wlw 4.18 2017 Perfect Rhythm (Fair Oaks, #1)
author: Jae
name: Jay
average rating: 4.18
book published: 2017
rating: 4
read at: 2024/01/01
date added: 2024/06/11
shelves: wlw
review:

]]> Just Like That 731458 ISBN 9781594930256 moved to the more recent edition

Syrah Ardani tried independence - but the call of the Napa Valley hills and rolling vineyards of her family’s winery have brought her home again. She is content with her ordered world until she learns that her father’s feckless management has put Ardani Vineyards into receivership.

Corporate turnaround specialist Toni Blanchard’s arrival is preceded by tales of her slash-and-burn techniques. Determined to meet this soulless corporate raider head on, Syrah proudly prepares to do battle for her home and family business.

Toni has reason to retreat from a high-pressure Manhattan lifestyle, not the least of which is a bitter break up. She’s been told that Syrah Ardani is attractive and single, but Toni never mixes business and pleasure.

Toni’s father wants her to save his old friend from bankruptcy. The court has appointed her to safeguard the creditors. The creditors clamor for a quick sale and payment. The beautiful—and hostile—Syrah wants Toni off her land and out of her life.

Their clashes smolder with distrust and resentment, but also threaten to light a completely different kind of fire. Most dangerous of all is the one thing Toni can’t control—the way her heart reacts when Syrah looks at her� just like that.]]> 204 Karin Kallmaker Jay 4 audioook, wlw 3.73 2005 Just Like That
author: Karin Kallmaker
name: Jay
average rating: 3.73
book published: 2005
rating: 4
read at: 2024/05/01
date added: 2024/06/10
shelves: audioook, wlw
review:

]]> Before You Say I Do 52181114
Abby Porter has a high-flying job and the perfect fiancé in Marcus Montgomery.

But Abby’s world turns on its head when he hires a professional bridesmaid to help her in the run-up to the wedding. When Abby meets Jordan, she can hardly breathe.

Marcus is oblivious.

The wedding is weeks away.

Now, the only question is: will Abby make it to the altar?

Best-selling author Clare Lydon brings you a love story to top them all. Download this story of forbidden love and submerge yourself in lesbian romance today!]]> 292 Clare Lydon Jay 3 wlw 3.80 2020 Before You Say I Do
author: Clare Lydon
name: Jay
average rating: 3.80
book published: 2020
rating: 3
read at: 2024/05/01
date added: 2024/06/04
shelves: wlw
review:

]]> You Had Me at Merlot 198821134
Bordeauxnuts is New York City magic, and it all belongs to Jamie Tolliver. A charming coffee and doughnut spot by day, Bordeauxnuts transforms with a sprinkle of powdered sugar into a cozy sophisticated wine bar each evening. Jamie’s enjoying a blueberry latte with her quirky band of regulars when a stunning and enigmatic stranger saunters in, flips her laptop open, and Jamie’s world upside down. Each time Jamie speaks to Leighton Morrow, her crush multiplies. She’s drawn to Leighton's captivating presence, her kindness, and the faint lip print she leaves on her cup that winds a tingle up Jamie’s spine.

But sexy spine tingles can be deceiving.

Leighton Morrow didn’t set out to ruin anyone’s life, but she has a job to do. As a development coordinator for Carrington’s Department Store, Leighton’s part of the team that plans to take over the city block for the new location, including demolishing her new favorite café, Bordeauxnuts. A shame, but that’s life. She’ll miss the apple fritters and the cute owner. But work is a No Feelings Zone and she definitely cannot give in to the ones she has percolating for Jamie. Leighton and Jamie have all the ingredients to turn their attraction into love, but it’s a recipe for disaster.]]> 264 Melissa Brayden 1636795439 Jay 4 3.95/5

Just finished up "You Had Me at Merlot" by Melissa Brayden, and here are my initial thoughts:

Story-wise, it's nothing particularly new; we've encountered similar plots before. However, what sets it apart is the storytelling. I've listened to a handful of books by Melissa Brayden, and I don't think it would be presumptuous to say she has a set formula. Now, let's cut to the chase; from my perspective, this book offers a good romance with minimal angst and a sincere narrative. The main characters were well-developed and relatable. Jamie came off a bit selfish, but Leighton? I liked her. She was head over heels for Jamie, and Jamie knew it. Sure, Leighton hurt Jamie, but it wasn't irreparable unless Jamie overreacted, which she did. According to me, Jamie acted a little selfishly and used Leigh. [spoilers removed] ☹️☹️ Though, I can cut Jamie some slack because she really loved Leighton, and they had a crackling chemistry.

The story unfolds at a moderately slow pace, but I didn't mind because of the earnest storytelling. Although, I think the length could have been trimmed by a few paragraphs.

I also fail to see the need to introduce Helen into the mix, especially when it felt like we were nearing a resolution after a prolonged 'dancing around each other' phase. Why was Helen needed, and why did she have to disrupt things? It seemed like the author used her character arbitrarily, shifting her role as needed. At one point, she's the one who helped Leighton move on from her feelings for Jamie, while a few pages later, she's portrayed as oblivious to Leighton's feelings. It seemed she didn't even try to understand Leighton at all. A person whose view shifted from "Love is overrated" to again dating Tegan, who is just a commoner! It's just confusing and inconsistent, in my opinion. ]]> 4.09 You Had Me at Merlot
author: Melissa Brayden
name: Jay
average rating: 4.09
book published:
rating: 4
read at: 2024/05/01
date added: 2024/05/30
shelves:
review:
3.95/5

Just finished up "You Had Me at Merlot" by Melissa Brayden, and here are my initial thoughts:

Story-wise, it's nothing particularly new; we've encountered similar plots before. However, what sets it apart is the storytelling. I've listened to a handful of books by Melissa Brayden, and I don't think it would be presumptuous to say she has a set formula. Now, let's cut to the chase; from my perspective, this book offers a good romance with minimal angst and a sincere narrative. The main characters were well-developed and relatable. Jamie came off a bit selfish, but Leighton? I liked her. She was head over heels for Jamie, and Jamie knew it. Sure, Leighton hurt Jamie, but it wasn't irreparable unless Jamie overreacted, which she did. According to me, Jamie acted a little selfishly and used Leigh. [spoilers removed] ☹️☹️ Though, I can cut Jamie some slack because she really loved Leighton, and they had a crackling chemistry.

The story unfolds at a moderately slow pace, but I didn't mind because of the earnest storytelling. Although, I think the length could have been trimmed by a few paragraphs.

I also fail to see the need to introduce Helen into the mix, especially when it felt like we were nearing a resolution after a prolonged 'dancing around each other' phase. Why was Helen needed, and why did she have to disrupt things? It seemed like the author used her character arbitrarily, shifting her role as needed. At one point, she's the one who helped Leighton move on from her feelings for Jamie, while a few pages later, she's portrayed as oblivious to Leighton's feelings. It seemed she didn't even try to understand Leighton at all. A person whose view shifted from "Love is overrated" to again dating Tegan, who is just a commoner! It's just confusing and inconsistent, in my opinion.
]]> Car Pool 639547
Car pool heaven turns into car pool hell when Anthea Rossignole realizes her lover is having an affair with the other woman sharing their daily commute. Anthea’s corporate career as a cost analyst is the only thing keeping her together. Now she’s looking for someone to share the long drive in the Bay Area’s notorious traffic.

Shay Sumoto desperately needs a car pool. Though wildly overqualified, the environmental biologist takes a job testing well samples to keep body and soul together. The debt from her father’s terminal illness and the loss of their company have left her with no money and no sense of humor.

When Shay and Anthea begin carpooling together, their instant antipathy gets even worse. But when Shay uncovers alarming test results in her work–information that could cost both of them their jobs–Anthea is the only person she trusts for advice.]]> 240 Karin Kallmaker 1594930139 Jay 3 wlw 3.72 1993 Car Pool
author: Karin Kallmaker
name: Jay
average rating: 3.72
book published: 1993
rating: 3
read at: 2024/05/01
date added: 2024/05/28
shelves: wlw
review:

]]> Keep This Off the Record 108243201
But could their severe hatred be masking something else entirely?

From the moment they locked eyes in high school, Abby and Freya have been at each other’s throats. Ten years later, when Abby and Freya cross paths again, their old rivalry doesn’t take more than a few minutes to begin anew.

And now Naomi, Abby’s best friend, is falling for Freya’s producer and close pal, Will. Both women are thrilled to see their friends in a happy relationship � except they are now only a few degrees of separation from the person they claim to despise� and they can’t seem to avoid seeing one another.

After their encounters repeatedly devolve into warfare, Abby and Freya’s friends decide their age-old rivalry can only mean one thing: true love. Will their friends bring them together? Or will Freya’s refusal to admit who she is keep them from discovering their underlying passion?

Keep This Off The Record is a fun and fresh LGBTQIA+ story about the freedom to be who you are, even if that means falling for the person you hate.]]> 340 Arden Joy 1990253555 Jay 2 wlw 3.46 2024 Keep This Off the Record
author: Arden Joy
name: Jay
average rating: 3.46
book published: 2024
rating: 2
read at: 2024/05/01
date added: 2024/05/28
shelves: wlw
review:

]]> The Goodmans 40365200 Maggie Goodman, all fire and passion, is like another mother to her, amiable Richard a rock and 60s-child Celia is the grandmother she never had.
But Abby has a secret. Best friend Jude Goodman is the love of her life, and very, very straight. Even if Jude had ever given a woman a second glance, there’d also be the small problem of Maggie � she would definitely not approve.
But secrets have a habit of sneaking out, and Abby’s not the only one with something to hide. Life is just about to get very interesting for the Goodmans.
Things are not what they used to be, but could they be even better?

97,600 words]]> 376 Clare Ashton 0463466454 Jay 0 to-read 4.38 2018 The Goodmans
author: Clare Ashton
name: Jay
average rating: 4.38
book published: 2018
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2024/05/28
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> <![CDATA[Leverage (Halcyon Division, #2)]]> 123387663
Aside from Lexie’s confusion about the whys of her release, things seem to be okay—she’s free, back at work, and is officially dating Sophia, which is way better than just okay. But when you embarrass the most powerful man in the country, you risk incurring his petty wrath, and when Lexie is reassigned back into a field position in a hostile country, she’s sure it’s retaliation for knowing the truth and that the president is going to leverage what Lexie did to keep her in line.

Now Lexie has a new mission. Make it home to the woman she loves.

Book Two in the Halcyon Division Series.]]> 290 E.J. Noyes 1642474975 Jay 5 thriller, wlw 4.75/5

I love this second installment of the Halcyon Division series, Leverage. As usual, I am bowled over by E.J. Noyes' writing, and I am a dedicated fangirl.

The story picks up right where Integrity, the first book in the series, left off. Integrity was my first E.J. Noyes book, and I was immediately smitten by her writing style and her ability to inject humor into almost impossible situations. Initially, I didn't love Lexie Martin in Integrity, but she certainly piqued my interest. Lexie felt more complex than just an expert manipulator; she was very much a grey character. At times, I almost loathed her for manipulating Sofia Flores, but E.J. Noyes' justifications are irresistible. By the end of Integrity, I was more than intrigued by Alexandra Elizabeth Martin.

This series must be read in order to grasp the full picture. Leverage is a bit slower compared to the first book, but I understand the need for this pacing. It spreads confusion like a thick blanket of clouds over the reader's mind, keeping us speculating about what's to come.

The introduction of Jeffrey, aka Mr. Smith, seems to have been designed to give us a true blue espionage thriller and to divert our attention from the reduced romance between Lexie and Sofia. There is also the unresolved Elaheh angle, which could have been a loose end. To resolve the Elaheh angle, Lexie had to return to where she was five years ago, necessitating a confidant or support system who wasn't her love interest, hence the dynamics between Jeff and Lexie.

The romance in this book is less prominent than in the first one, but don't get me wrong—this series is fundamentally a thriller, so there's less 'cuddling time' for the main characters. However, the intimate scenes that are present are hot and tastefully written.

By any chance, is Lexie Martin a distant cousin of Sabine Fleischer? They share the same quirky sense of humor. Their snarky dialogues can rip you apart even in the midst of serious situations..... Just kidding. ]]> 4.44 Leverage (Halcyon Division, #2)
author: E.J. Noyes
name: Jay
average rating: 4.44
book published:
rating: 5
read at: 2024/05/01
date added: 2024/05/19
shelves: thriller, wlw
review:
4.75/5

I love this second installment of the Halcyon Division series, Leverage. As usual, I am bowled over by E.J. Noyes' writing, and I am a dedicated fangirl.

The story picks up right where Integrity, the first book in the series, left off. Integrity was my first E.J. Noyes book, and I was immediately smitten by her writing style and her ability to inject humor into almost impossible situations. Initially, I didn't love Lexie Martin in Integrity, but she certainly piqued my interest. Lexie felt more complex than just an expert manipulator; she was very much a grey character. At times, I almost loathed her for manipulating Sofia Flores, but E.J. Noyes' justifications are irresistible. By the end of Integrity, I was more than intrigued by Alexandra Elizabeth Martin.

This series must be read in order to grasp the full picture. Leverage is a bit slower compared to the first book, but I understand the need for this pacing. It spreads confusion like a thick blanket of clouds over the reader's mind, keeping us speculating about what's to come.

The introduction of Jeffrey, aka Mr. Smith, seems to have been designed to give us a true blue espionage thriller and to divert our attention from the reduced romance between Lexie and Sofia. There is also the unresolved Elaheh angle, which could have been a loose end. To resolve the Elaheh angle, Lexie had to return to where she was five years ago, necessitating a confidant or support system who wasn't her love interest, hence the dynamics between Jeff and Lexie.

The romance in this book is less prominent than in the first one, but don't get me wrong—this series is fundamentally a thriller, so there's less 'cuddling time' for the main characters. However, the intimate scenes that are present are hot and tastefully written.

By any chance, is Lexie Martin a distant cousin of Sabine Fleischer? They share the same quirky sense of humor. Their snarky dialogues can rip you apart even in the midst of serious situations..... Just kidding.
]]> Nightingale 18342350
Hazaar desperately wants to break with her traditions and stay with Charlie, but when forced to choose, she chooses her family over love. When she realizes the choice she made is the worst one possible, it’s too late.

Years later, while working in Pakistan as a diplomat and negotiator, Charlie receives a phone call from a woman who says her British sister-in-law is to be killed for the family’s honor and asks if someone can save her.

Charlie and Hazaar are on a collision course with destiny. If they make it out alive, can they believe in their love once again?]]> 264 Andrea Bramhall 1626390592 Jay 4 high-angst, wlw 3.90/5

The story of Nightingale is simply amazing. It tackled a difficult subject, and the author's in-depth research is evident. The plot was awesome, but I struggled to connect with the story. It had the potential for a highly dramatic romance, but the storytelling didn't quite resonate with me. It felt more like I was watching a documentary rather than experiencing a captivating tale.

However, let me clarify that it is indeed a very good story with a high level of angst. It's worth noting that the intense angst may not be everyone's cup of tea.]]> 4.36 2014 Nightingale
author: Andrea Bramhall
name: Jay
average rating: 4.36
book published: 2014
rating: 4
read at: 2024/05/01
date added: 2024/05/12
shelves: high-angst, wlw
review:
3.90/5

The story of Nightingale is simply amazing. It tackled a difficult subject, and the author's in-depth research is evident. The plot was awesome, but I struggled to connect with the story. It had the potential for a highly dramatic romance, but the storytelling didn't quite resonate with me. It felt more like I was watching a documentary rather than experiencing a captivating tale.

However, let me clarify that it is indeed a very good story with a high level of angst. It's worth noting that the intense angst may not be everyone's cup of tea.
]]> That Woman Next Door 58857892 Sometimes what you're running from is exactly what you need
Olivia Chevalier is perfectly happy living a quiet life of solitude with her two cats in the tempestuous countryside of Brittany.
Olivia’s peace is disrupted when heartbreaker extraordinaire Marie Dievart moves in to the holiday home next door after an event at work makes her flee her everyday life.
Olivia hates having a neighbour and Marie is put off by Olivia’s cranky ways.
But maybe these two women have more in common than they first believe.
Best-selling lesbian romance author Harper Bliss brings you a slow-burn opposites-attract story about the power of connection and opening yourself up to the possibility of love.]]> 290 Harper Bliss 9464339055 Jay 0 to-read 4.08 That Woman Next Door
author: Harper Bliss
name: Jay
average rating: 4.08
book published:
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2024/05/12
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> I Still Remember 39288683 52 Harper Bliss 9881228077 Jay 0 to-read 4.31 2013 I Still Remember
author: Harper Bliss
name: Jay
average rating: 4.31
book published: 2013
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2024/05/12
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> Pink Bean Series: Books 4-6 41807586 Sydney is full of coffee shops, but none as exciting and full of drama as the Pink Bean! In This Foreign Affair, heartbroken Zoya has a holiday romance with French tourist Camille, but is faced with tough choices when the fling turns into something deeper. Old traumas come back to haunt yoga teacher Louise when the Pink Bean hires a new manager. Water Under Bridges explores the themes of change and forgiveness, and whether people can ever truly move on from a dark past. Book shop owner Annie and her wife Jane see their relationship challenged with the arrival of the Pink Bean into their lives. Find out how they navigate and overcome the struggles of a long-lasting marriage in No Other Love. Grab an espresso (or a flat white) and settle down for nearly 700 pages of heartwarming, dramatic and steamy lesbian romance like only best-selling author Harper Bliss can craft.]]> 667 Harper Bliss 9887912301 Jay 4 Water Under Bridges ---- 4.15/5
No other Love --- 3.75/5]]> 4.56 Pink Bean Series: Books 4-6
author: Harper Bliss
name: Jay
average rating: 4.56
book published:
rating: 4
read at: 2024/05/01
date added: 2024/05/12
shelves:
review:
This Foreign Affairs --- 3.5/5
Water Under Bridges ---- 4.15/5
No other Love --- 3.75/5
]]> Pink Bean Series #1-3 39351711 ASIN B07BMJSYWD moved to the most recent edition here

Sydney is full of coffeeshops, but none as exciting, and full of drama, as the Pink Bean.

First meet Micky, a newly divorced mother of two, who in No Strings Attached is claiming her independence by taking a job at the Pink Bean and exploring a new side to herself.

Next up are Kristin and Sheryl, the owners of the Pink Bean. Beneath the Surface will take you back in time to follow their journey and discover the origin story of Sydney's pinkest coffee shop.

Finally, get to know Josephine, long-time barista at the Pink Bean, as she attempts to get over her insecurities and opens herself up to love in Everything Between Us.

Grab an espresso (or a flat white) and settle down for nearly 700 pages of heartwarming, dramatic and steamy lesbian romance, like only best-selling author Harper Bliss can craft.Sydney is full of coffeeshops, but none as exciting, and full of drama, as the Pink Bean.
.]]> 690 Harper Bliss Jay 4 wlw 4.32 2018 Pink Bean Series #1-3
author: Harper Bliss
name: Jay
average rating: 4.32
book published: 2018
rating: 4
read at: 2024/05/01
date added: 2024/05/12
shelves: wlw
review:

]]> The Gravity Between Us 18456078 Where does friendship stop and love begin?

At just 19, Kendall Bettencourt is Hollywood’s hottest young starlet with the world at her feet � but behind the glamour and designer dresses is a girl who longs for normal.

Payton Taylor is Kendall’s best friend since childhood, and the one person who reminds her of who she really is � her refuge from the craziness of celebrity life.

With her career taking off, Kendall moves Payton to LA to help keep her sane. But Payton is hiding a secret that could make everything ten times worse. Because to her, Kendall is more than a best friend � she is the only girl that she has ever loved.

Just as they need each other more than ever, they’ll have to answer the question of where friendship stops and love begins? And find out whether the feelings they have can survive the mounting pressure of fame�

The Gravity Between Us is a daring, romantic, emotional story about friendship, love, and finding the courage to be yourself in a crazy world.

New Adult novel: recommended for 17+ due to mature themes and sexual content]]> 310 Kristen Zimmer 190949013X Jay 3 wlw, friends-lovers, ya 3.76 2013 The Gravity Between Us
author: Kristen Zimmer
name: Jay
average rating: 3.76
book published: 2013
rating: 3
read at: 2024/05/01
date added: 2024/05/09
shelves: wlw, friends-lovers, ya
review:

]]> চাঁদের পাহাড় 7936528 176 Bibhutibhushan Bandyopadhyay 9350400405 Jay 5 4.56 1937 চাঁদের পাহাড়
author: Bibhutibhushan Bandyopadhyay
name: Jay
average rating: 4.56
book published: 1937
rating: 5
read at:
date added: 2024/05/04
shelves:
review:

]]> Wrong Number, Right Woman 54670332 Flirting has never been Denny’s strong suit, but so what if she’s too shy to ask women out? She’s content with her simple life, working as a cashier and helping her sister raise her niece.
But then she gets a wrong-number text message from a stranger named Eliza, asking her of all people for dating advice!
Eliza is Denny’s total opposite: witty, outgoing—and straight. Despite their differences, the accidental text sparks an unlikely friendship. Soon, Eliza—self-proclaimed queen of disastrous first dates—would rather banter back and forth with Denny than to keep trying her luck at online dating.
When they meet in person, there’s an instant connection. But what Eliza is feeling can’t be attraction, right? It doesn’t mean a thing that she’s starting to wish the guys she dates would be more like Denny. Or does it?
Can the wrong number lead to the right woman after all?
Wrong Number, Right Woman is a light-hearted, slow-burn lesbian romance that embraces likable characters without all the drama.

Length: 116,000 words
Tropes & themes: slow-burn romance, low angst, relatable characters, butch/femme, age gap, “toaster oven� romance, craft romance, Portland romance, shy character]]> 370 Jae 3963244038 Jay 4 4.09 2020 Wrong Number, Right Woman
author: Jae
name: Jay
average rating: 4.09
book published: 2020
rating: 4
read at: 2024/04/01
date added: 2024/04/24
shelves:
review:

]]> The Flight Risk 134098419 453 Macon Leigh Jay 4 wlw, love-story, debut-novel 4.15/5

Baylee's constant running away from relationships and from herself is like she's in this never-ending struggle with understanding attachment. She's just trying to escape from this deep loneliness and the exhausting cycle of running away. She's not perfect, but I wouldn't just call her selfish. I think she's been living in survival mode, trying to avoid the pain that comes with getting too close to someone. But deep down, she wants a place to belong, someone to hold onto. Her childhood, being an orphan, taught her to avoid getting tied down, like a rolling stone that gathers no moss.

Tovi and Bay have a complex dynamic. Tovi came from a well-to-do background, but her parents never approved of her. Maybe that was one of the reasons why Tovi was with numerous partners, defying the standards set by her parents. Bay, on the other hand, an orphan who never knew what it is to have a family, was attracted to Tovi. But I really didn't like Tovi's handling towards Bay. Most of the time, Tovi treated Bay badly, used her, though she knew Bay really cared for her. From where I'm looking at this dynamics, I feel Tovi was Bay's first understanding towards attachment. Her first experience with love, though it was not a romantic love. What makes me wonder is that Bay, the flight risk, had always been loyal to Tovi. One may question why Bay allowed Tovi to use her. Sometimes people like Bay, who never got a chance to look up to somebody, don't think rationally. So, whatever seems irrational from our point of view may not be the same from Bay's.

Now, let's talk about Harper and Baylee. Harper is like the anchor that saves Baylee from herself, providing the stability she's always needed. Yes, Baylee needed stability but she never wanted to admit it. Their love story reminds me of Celeste Cameron and Amy of Denial, but with much less angst. Harper knew that the more she let Baylee have her freedom, the more Baylee would want to come back to her. Baylee is the kind of person who avoids getting too attached but will always come around later when the ties are looser. So, Harper gave her the space to do her own thing, knowing she'd come back in the end.

This story is like this intricate web, showing us the depths of Baylee's mind and her connections with the people in her life. It's like we're on this journey through the past and present, where every 'Present' thread is an extended version of a 'Past' thread. Well...isn't that Life?
I especially love how cleverly the author tied together the two most important people in Bay's life with Rivers. Rivers is the bridge that brings together the two sides of love Bay felt for Tovi and Harper. Three different knots that tied Bay to the thread called life. In a way, Rivers is both the redemption and the reconciliation for Bay.

This story is all about the different shades of love and the complexities of life. If I had to nitpick, I'd say it could've been a bit shorter at times, and sometimes I find the pace of the story slow, very slow for my liking. The steam quotient of this story sits in the mid-lower category; then again, I never felt I am missing anything here. And I really wish I could've heard Harper's side of the story; dealing with someone like Baylee couldn't have been easy. Honestly speaking, I had to spend a fair amount of time to adjust my mind to get accustomed to the writing style of Ms. Macon.

So, what's the takeaway? For starters, it is a very well written debut novel. Secondly, the plot was like an intricate spider web. And lastly, characters were written too well and they felt very human. Very relatable.

By the way, spoiler alert: this story will make you cry without you even realizing it. It really tugs at the heartstrings.]]> 4.66 The Flight Risk
author: Macon Leigh
name: Jay
average rating: 4.66
book published:
rating: 4
read at: 2024/04/01
date added: 2024/04/24
shelves: wlw, love-story, debut-novel
review:
4.15/5

Baylee's constant running away from relationships and from herself is like she's in this never-ending struggle with understanding attachment. She's just trying to escape from this deep loneliness and the exhausting cycle of running away. She's not perfect, but I wouldn't just call her selfish. I think she's been living in survival mode, trying to avoid the pain that comes with getting too close to someone. But deep down, she wants a place to belong, someone to hold onto. Her childhood, being an orphan, taught her to avoid getting tied down, like a rolling stone that gathers no moss.

Tovi and Bay have a complex dynamic. Tovi came from a well-to-do background, but her parents never approved of her. Maybe that was one of the reasons why Tovi was with numerous partners, defying the standards set by her parents. Bay, on the other hand, an orphan who never knew what it is to have a family, was attracted to Tovi. But I really didn't like Tovi's handling towards Bay. Most of the time, Tovi treated Bay badly, used her, though she knew Bay really cared for her. From where I'm looking at this dynamics, I feel Tovi was Bay's first understanding towards attachment. Her first experience with love, though it was not a romantic love. What makes me wonder is that Bay, the flight risk, had always been loyal to Tovi. One may question why Bay allowed Tovi to use her. Sometimes people like Bay, who never got a chance to look up to somebody, don't think rationally. So, whatever seems irrational from our point of view may not be the same from Bay's.

Now, let's talk about Harper and Baylee. Harper is like the anchor that saves Baylee from herself, providing the stability she's always needed. Yes, Baylee needed stability but she never wanted to admit it. Their love story reminds me of Celeste Cameron and Amy of Denial, but with much less angst. Harper knew that the more she let Baylee have her freedom, the more Baylee would want to come back to her. Baylee is the kind of person who avoids getting too attached but will always come around later when the ties are looser. So, Harper gave her the space to do her own thing, knowing she'd come back in the end.

This story is like this intricate web, showing us the depths of Baylee's mind and her connections with the people in her life. It's like we're on this journey through the past and present, where every 'Present' thread is an extended version of a 'Past' thread. Well...isn't that Life?
I especially love how cleverly the author tied together the two most important people in Bay's life with Rivers. Rivers is the bridge that brings together the two sides of love Bay felt for Tovi and Harper. Three different knots that tied Bay to the thread called life. In a way, Rivers is both the redemption and the reconciliation for Bay.

This story is all about the different shades of love and the complexities of life. If I had to nitpick, I'd say it could've been a bit shorter at times, and sometimes I find the pace of the story slow, very slow for my liking. The steam quotient of this story sits in the mid-lower category; then again, I never felt I am missing anything here. And I really wish I could've heard Harper's side of the story; dealing with someone like Baylee couldn't have been easy. Honestly speaking, I had to spend a fair amount of time to adjust my mind to get accustomed to the writing style of Ms. Macon.

So, what's the takeaway? For starters, it is a very well written debut novel. Secondly, the plot was like an intricate spider web. And lastly, characters were written too well and they felt very human. Very relatable.

By the way, spoiler alert: this story will make you cry without you even realizing it. It really tugs at the heartstrings.
]]> Cover Story 195511768
Taylor Vaughn has made a career as a bodyguard to the stars, but an injury has kept her sidelined for the past three months, jeopardizing her future in the job she loves. When an opportunity arises to work for Natalie Keane, Taylor jumps at the chance—even before knowing the details of the assignment.

Natalie knows this could work: Taylor, the bodyguard, masquerading as her girlfriend. The perfect cover story. But as circumstances push the two women closer, the lines between fantasy and reality begin to blur.]]> 297 Rachel Lacey 1662517394 Jay 4 wlw, shamance 4/5

Natalie Keane, Hollywood gold, with a shiny Golden Globe to prove it. She's also living her truth as an out and proud lesbian, which is awesome. But when the cameras stop rolling and she's chilling at home, that's when the perfect picture starts to crack. This gal's been through the wringer—stalked, kidnapped, and left with some serious mental scars. Plus, her childhood was no walk in the park, what with losing her mom in a crash and her dad being MIA.

Now, we've got Taylor Vaughn, who's basically a superhero without the cape. Ex-military, now a bodyguard to the stars, and yeah, she's got that whole 'I'm hot and I mean business' vibe going on. But that's just at the surface level; she's fighting her own battle with a back injury that's got her career hanging by a thread.

So, when word gets out that Natalie's creeper kidnapper is walking free thanks to parole, her team goes into stealth mode. They need a bodyguard who can blend in as Natalie's girlfriend, and Taylor's just the woman for the job.

Ms. Lacey scoops us up into this journey with Natalie and Taylor, stirring up a love story that's as strong as it is slow-burning—and totally satisfying. She's got a slick way of keeping the kidnapper in the mix without overdoing it, and you can't help but feel Natalie's jitters right along with her.

There's this one bit where they stumble upon Cassie the Kitten, and man, the tension's so thick with a capital T. The whole scene's a nail-biter, and as a reader I was just on my toes right there with Nat and Taylor apprehending that the Kidnapper might re-surface.

All in all, it's a solid read with just the right amount of heat. The main characters are fleshed out pretty well, but I gotta say, I wish there was more to Taylor. The whole 'dashing knight' angle didn't quite hit the mark for me. It's like digging into a dish that's almost there but missing that secret spice to make it truly mouthwatering.

But Natalie? She's penned down to a T. You get her—her fears, her edge, her tough spots, and her stubborn streak. She's as real as they come.]]> 4.05 Cover Story
author: Rachel Lacey
name: Jay
average rating: 4.05
book published:
rating: 4
read at: 2024/04/01
date added: 2024/04/12
shelves: wlw, shamance
review:
4/5

Natalie Keane, Hollywood gold, with a shiny Golden Globe to prove it. She's also living her truth as an out and proud lesbian, which is awesome. But when the cameras stop rolling and she's chilling at home, that's when the perfect picture starts to crack. This gal's been through the wringer—stalked, kidnapped, and left with some serious mental scars. Plus, her childhood was no walk in the park, what with losing her mom in a crash and her dad being MIA.

Now, we've got Taylor Vaughn, who's basically a superhero without the cape. Ex-military, now a bodyguard to the stars, and yeah, she's got that whole 'I'm hot and I mean business' vibe going on. But that's just at the surface level; she's fighting her own battle with a back injury that's got her career hanging by a thread.

So, when word gets out that Natalie's creeper kidnapper is walking free thanks to parole, her team goes into stealth mode. They need a bodyguard who can blend in as Natalie's girlfriend, and Taylor's just the woman for the job.

Ms. Lacey scoops us up into this journey with Natalie and Taylor, stirring up a love story that's as strong as it is slow-burning—and totally satisfying. She's got a slick way of keeping the kidnapper in the mix without overdoing it, and you can't help but feel Natalie's jitters right along with her.

There's this one bit where they stumble upon Cassie the Kitten, and man, the tension's so thick with a capital T. The whole scene's a nail-biter, and as a reader I was just on my toes right there with Nat and Taylor apprehending that the Kidnapper might re-surface.

All in all, it's a solid read with just the right amount of heat. The main characters are fleshed out pretty well, but I gotta say, I wish there was more to Taylor. The whole 'dashing knight' angle didn't quite hit the mark for me. It's like digging into a dish that's almost there but missing that secret spice to make it truly mouthwatering.

But Natalie? She's penned down to a T. You get her—her fears, her edge, her tough spots, and her stubborn streak. She's as real as they come.
]]> <![CDATA[Finding Home (Winter Jacket, #3)]]> 25509539 328 Eliza Lentzski Jay 3 4.33 2015 Finding Home (Winter Jacket, #3)
author: Eliza Lentzski
name: Jay
average rating: 4.33
book published: 2015
rating: 3
read at: 2024/03/01
date added: 2024/04/11
shelves:
review:

]]> <![CDATA[Damaged Goods (Don’t Call Me Hero, #2)]]> 28242997
The past few years had been difficult for former Marine, Cassidy Miller. She’d left the military, joined the Minneapolis city police, only to voluntarily remove herself from active duty. In the tiny town of Embarrass, Minnesota, she met Julia Desjardin, the distant yet devastatingly beautiful city prosecutor, sparking a romance neither could have anticipated.

Now, back in Minneapolis, things are starting to look up for Cassidy: she and Julia have reconciled, and she’s hoping to be reinstated with the Minneapolis police soon. But life is never that simple. Cassidy can take off the uniform, but she can’t shake the soldier. Her flashbacks of Afghanistan are getting progressively worse, her new police partner resents her existence, and she’s not sure she’s truly forgiven Julia for what happened in Embarrass.

Can she enjoy this Happily Ever After or will memories of a not-so-distant past slowly tear her (and Julia) apart?]]> 264 Eliza Lentzski Jay 3 wlw 4.41 2015 Damaged Goods (Don’t Call Me Hero, #2)
author: Eliza Lentzski
name: Jay
average rating: 4.41
book published: 2015
rating: 3
read at: 2024/03/01
date added: 2024/04/11
shelves: wlw
review:

]]> <![CDATA[Don't Call Me Hero (Don’t Call Me Hero, #1)]]> 23499665 322 Eliza Lentzski Jay 3 wlw 4.24 2014 Don't Call Me Hero (Don’t Call Me Hero, #1)
author: Eliza Lentzski
name: Jay
average rating: 4.24
book published: 2014
rating: 3
read at: 2024/03/01
date added: 2024/04/11
shelves: wlw
review:

]]> Stars Collide 74882249
Anna Moss is pop music’s rising star. She’s idolized Eden Sands for most of her life—so it’s a dream come true when she’s invited to perform with her at the Grammys. Anna’s tired of being defined by her bubbly persona. She wants to be taken seriously as an artist, and a duet with Eden could be just what she needs.

As Anna and Eden rehearse, they soon realize they have more in common than their musical talents. Now they just have to decide if what is between them is a one-hit wonder or the making of a romance worthy of one of the greatest love songs of all time.]]> 313 Rachel Lacey 166250912X Jay 4
Stars Collide by Rachel Lacey is a delightful romantic read that will make your heart flutter. It's about two celebrities, Eden and Anna, who fall in love slowly and steadily over time.

Eden is a famous singer whose career has hit a standstill, and she's desperate to find her way out of this slump. On the other hand, Anna is a big fan of Eden and is instantly smitten when they meet. It's only a matter of time before these two fall head over heels for each other.

Their relationship starts as a professional handshake, then blossoms into a beautiful friendship, and eventually transforms into a passionate love affair. Along the way, Eden discovers her sexuality while Anna learns to overcome her insecurities.

The novel is filled with all the classic romance tropes: age gap, slow burn, grumpy-sunshine, and celebrity love. But Lacey weaves them together in a fresh and engaging way that will keep you hooked from beginning to end.

I especially loved the way the main characters were developed. I found myself rooting for Eden, who was portrayed as a complex character. Despite her diva-like public persona, she's actually a kind and compassionate person. On the other hand, Anna, who comes across as bubbly and cheerful, is also dealing with insecurities and mental manipulation.

Overall, Stars Collide is a feel-good romance that will make you swoon. It's well-written, with relatable characters and a heart-warming story.]]> 4.01 2023 Stars Collide
author: Rachel Lacey
name: Jay
average rating: 4.01
book published: 2023
rating: 4
read at: 2023/12/01
date added: 2024/04/11
shelves: agegap, contemporary, icequeen, wlw, grumpy-sunshine
review:
4/5

Stars Collide by Rachel Lacey is a delightful romantic read that will make your heart flutter. It's about two celebrities, Eden and Anna, who fall in love slowly and steadily over time.

Eden is a famous singer whose career has hit a standstill, and she's desperate to find her way out of this slump. On the other hand, Anna is a big fan of Eden and is instantly smitten when they meet. It's only a matter of time before these two fall head over heels for each other.

Their relationship starts as a professional handshake, then blossoms into a beautiful friendship, and eventually transforms into a passionate love affair. Along the way, Eden discovers her sexuality while Anna learns to overcome her insecurities.

The novel is filled with all the classic romance tropes: age gap, slow burn, grumpy-sunshine, and celebrity love. But Lacey weaves them together in a fresh and engaging way that will keep you hooked from beginning to end.

I especially loved the way the main characters were developed. I found myself rooting for Eden, who was portrayed as a complex character. Despite her diva-like public persona, she's actually a kind and compassionate person. On the other hand, Anna, who comes across as bubbly and cheerful, is also dealing with insecurities and mental manipulation.

Overall, Stars Collide is a feel-good romance that will make you swoon. It's well-written, with relatable characters and a heart-warming story.
]]> The Blood We Spill 60287663 ASIN moved from less recent edition

What would make the most ruthless ice-queen assassin in the Kingdom hesitate?

Bound to the Kingdom for life, Cie serves a cruel King, her knives pledged to his word, her life at his mercy. She is also one of the Kingdom’s most privileged slaves � one of the Praetoria: five of the best, sworn to protect the Prince and, one day, to rule at his side. It’s not a bad life � luxurious parties in any of the eighteen worlds, beautiful women falling over themselves to land in her bed, her orders to be obeyed by over forty-eight billion citizens.

But when a routine job goes spectacularly wrong, Cie discovers there is a witness to her failure � a witness to a political assassination the King would never want revealed. It’s Cie’s intense misfortune that the witness is a beauty � a woman with sweet, warm skin that Cie longs to sink into, with deep, brown eyes that hold promises that Cie has only ever dreamt of, a woman whose embrace offers a gentleness and a kindness Cie craves above all else.

Jemma thought she’d been in love before, but when she falls for the King’s assassin, she falls hard. Cie burns her up � the assassin plays fast and loves harder, and Jemma’s head is whirling even as her body is thrilled. Jemma watches as a growing terrorist threat pushes the King to madness and Cie’s orders become more and more violent. The woman she thinks she loves is steeped in red. Is it even possible for a girl from the suburbs to love a person so drenched in blood?]]> 646 Jo Havens Jay 2 Jemma has been portrayed as a whiny, entitled bitch who is the height of ungratefulness in order to win over people to Cie's side, right? Have we ever considered the possibility that what Cie was doing to her was merely projecting her desires and wishes onto Jemma without even considering what Jemma could want? And that feeling of possession—wowza! That is a serious red flag, and there are others.
Furthermore, the plot is essentially a medieval tale with a futuristic backdrop.
Not at all fond of it.]]> 4.05 The Blood We Spill
author: Jo Havens
name: Jay
average rating: 4.05
book published:
rating: 2
read at: 2024/04/01
date added: 2024/04/07
shelves:
review:
In an odd novel, one of the main characters is used as the scapegoat, accepting full responsibility in order to elevate the other.
Jemma has been portrayed as a whiny, entitled bitch who is the height of ungratefulness in order to win over people to Cie's side, right? Have we ever considered the possibility that what Cie was doing to her was merely projecting her desires and wishes onto Jemma without even considering what Jemma could want? And that feeling of possession—wowza! That is a serious red flag, and there are others.
Furthermore, the plot is essentially a medieval tale with a futuristic backdrop.
Not at all fond of it.
]]> Just for Show 37789281
Claire Renshaw thought she had it all: a successful career as a couples therapist, a publishing contract for her self-help book, and a happy relationship. But her perfect world falls apart when her fiancée calls off their engagement. Because of that, even her book deal might be off the table. After all, readers don’t want relationship advice from someone who can’t even make her own relationship work.

So Claire sets out to hire herself a fake fiancée.

Lana Henderson, the actress who shows up to audition for the role, is not exactly Claire’s ideal woman. Her frankness and the messes she leaves everywhere drive Claire up the wall. At least she won’t fall in love with someone like Lana.

But soon, Lana starts to win her over with her big heart, tickle fights, and—gasp!—carbs after six. The longer they pretend to be a love-struck couple, the less fake their kisses feel and the more the lines between reality and role begin to blur.

Once the book contract is signed, will they walk away or is their relationship no longer just for show?

A lesbian romance where role-playing has never been so irresistible.]]> 311 Jae 3955339823 Jay 4 4.13 Just for Show
author: Jae
name: Jay
average rating: 4.13
book published:
rating: 4
read at: 2024/03/01
date added: 2024/04/04
shelves:
review:

]]> <![CDATA[The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo: Books 1-3]]> 142410666
The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo
Harriet Vanger, a scion of one of Sweden’s wealthiest families disappeared without a trace more than forty years ago. All these years later, her aged uncle continues to try to discover what happened to her. He hires Mikael Blomkvist, a journalist recently sidelined by a libel conviction, to investigate. Blomkvist is aided by the pierced and tattooed computer prodigy Lisbeth Salander. Together they tap into a vein of unfathomable iniquity and astonishing corruption on their way to discovering the truth of Harriet Vanger’s fate.

The Girl Who Played with Fire
Mikael Blomkvist, now the crusading publisher of the magazine Millennium, has decided to run a story that will expose an extensive sex trafficking operation. On the eve of its publication, the two reporters responsible for the article are murdered, and the fingerprints found on the murder weapon belong to his friend Lisbeth Salander. Blomkvist, convinced of Salander’s innocence, plunges into an investigation of the murders. Meanwhile, Salander herself is drawn into a murderous game of cat and mouse, which forces her to face her dark past.

The Girl Who Kicked the Hornet's Nest
Lisbeth Salander lies in critical condition, a bullet wound to her head, in the intensive care unit of a Swedish city hospital. She’s fighting for her life in more ways than one: if and when she recovers, she’ll be taken back to Stockholm to stand trial for three murders. With the help of Mikael Blomkvist, she will not only have to prove her innocence, but also identify and denounce those in authority who have allowed the vulnerable, like herself, to suffer abuse and violence. On her own, she will plot revenge—against the man who tried to kill her, and against the corrupt government institutions that very nearly destroyed her life.]]> Stieg Larsson Jay 4 4.45 2005 The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo: Books 1-3
author: Stieg Larsson
name: Jay
average rating: 4.45
book published: 2005
rating: 4
read at:
date added: 2024/03/16
shelves:
review:

]]> <![CDATA[Don't Circle Or (The Trimble Triplets Trilogy, #1)]]> 208920158
Morgan, once destined for a bright future, now finds herself trapped in a cycle of guilt and self-destruction, haunted by the past. Drew, too, struggles to find meaning in a loveless marriage, merely existing for the sake of her son and the family surrounding her.

When Morgan bravely decides she’s ready to come home, everything hangs in the balance. Will the old flames still burn between them after all this time? Can Drew summon the courage to break free from her loveless marriage and pursue her true desires? And will Morgan find the strength to forgive herself?

In the first installment of the Trimble Triplets Trilogy, time is both adversary and ally. Through glimpses into the past, Drew and Morgan's journey unfolds, revealing the power of healing and the hope for a future where love can truly conquer all.

As Drew and Morgan confront the ghosts of their shared history, they must summon newfound courage to confront the truths they've long avoided. Can a series of heartfelt letters bridge the chasm between past regrets and present longing? For a second chance at love, time must first heal all wounds. Amidst
the echoes of past mistakes, they can only hope that this time, love will finally come full circle.]]> Kellan McKnight Jay 5 4.9/5

Don't Circle Or is a tale of redemption and coming full circle. The story begins with heartbreak followed by a life-altering accident that upheaved the equilibrium of the Trimble family and as well as for Drew Hunter-Davidson. The author then takes her readers on a roller-coaster ride of past and present to establish that nothing is as powerful as time. Time acts as both the destroyer and the healer.

At its core, the story portrays common tropes like enemies-to-lovers, second chance romance, and childhood romance. The crafty storytelling aspect of this romance makes it an endearing tale of two lovers whose unwavering love undergoes numerous trials but emerges victorious in the end.

Morgan Trimble is a larger-than-life character. She is a passionate lover, a doting elder sister, and, most importantly, a brave person who transforms into a timid, guilt-ridden human being rapidly spiraling downward. Drew Hunter, on the other hand, is also a passionate lover, a loyal friend, but lacks the courage to accept her relationship with Morgan. She is a complex character, knowing what and who she wants but unable to gather the courage to come out.

This is an angsty love story where guilt plays a major role. Morgan's guilt takes her on an abysmally downward journey, leading her to succumb to substance usage. To make matters worse, Morgan serves as a catalyst to Sierra's unfortunate demise, adding to her monumental guilt. Drew also bears her share of misery, squarely blaming herself for the Trimble family debacle and Morgan's mental state. At certain points in the storyline, I felt a bit angry with her, somewhat believing she was indeed responsible for the accident. Both characters undergo significant changes over time, eventually leading them to a happy ending.

The story also showcases how the same characters behave differently in almost identical situations from the past. Throughout the story, readers will experience a sense of déjà vu.

The intimate scenes between the two lovers are written with great passion and authenticity. The way Morgan handles Drew in their early years feels raw and genuine. Drew's patience and unwavering dedication to Morgan later on is a testament to their deep love for each other. One of the standout moments is when Drew asks Morgan to be her first, revealing her vulnerable side as she offers herself completely to Morgan in every sense. The depth of emotion and connection between the two main characters in this scene is exceptional.

Don't Circle Or masterfully deepens the emotional connections between its characters, drawing the readers into a world where every feeling is vividly experienced. The story meticulously portrays the intricate web of emotions that bind the characters together, from the rawness of heartbreak to the complexities of guilt and the unwavering dedication of love. The intimate scenes are not merely displays of passion but rather moments that resonate with profound emotional depth, laying bare the characters' vulnerabilities and forging an unbreakable bond between them. This emotional richness creates an immersive experience, allowing readers to truly feel the depth of the characters' love, pain, and eventual triumph, making Don't Circle Or a poignant and unforgettable romance.

Before finishing, a spoiler alert: this is indeed a tear-jerker, so keep your tissue box handy. There were times I found myself crying without even realizing it, and let me tell you, it is a bad cry, uncontrollably bad...]]> 4.53 Don't Circle Or (The Trimble Triplets Trilogy, #1)
author: Kellan McKnight
name: Jay
average rating: 4.53
book published:
rating: 5
read at: 2024/03/01
date added: 2024/03/09
shelves: high-angst, enemies-lovers, wlw
review:
4.9/5

Don't Circle Or is a tale of redemption and coming full circle. The story begins with heartbreak followed by a life-altering accident that upheaved the equilibrium of the Trimble family and as well as for Drew Hunter-Davidson. The author then takes her readers on a roller-coaster ride of past and present to establish that nothing is as powerful as time. Time acts as both the destroyer and the healer.

At its core, the story portrays common tropes like enemies-to-lovers, second chance romance, and childhood romance. The crafty storytelling aspect of this romance makes it an endearing tale of two lovers whose unwavering love undergoes numerous trials but emerges victorious in the end.

Morgan Trimble is a larger-than-life character. She is a passionate lover, a doting elder sister, and, most importantly, a brave person who transforms into a timid, guilt-ridden human being rapidly spiraling downward. Drew Hunter, on the other hand, is also a passionate lover, a loyal friend, but lacks the courage to accept her relationship with Morgan. She is a complex character, knowing what and who she wants but unable to gather the courage to come out.

This is an angsty love story where guilt plays a major role. Morgan's guilt takes her on an abysmally downward journey, leading her to succumb to substance usage. To make matters worse, Morgan serves as a catalyst to Sierra's unfortunate demise, adding to her monumental guilt. Drew also bears her share of misery, squarely blaming herself for the Trimble family debacle and Morgan's mental state. At certain points in the storyline, I felt a bit angry with her, somewhat believing she was indeed responsible for the accident. Both characters undergo significant changes over time, eventually leading them to a happy ending.

The story also showcases how the same characters behave differently in almost identical situations from the past. Throughout the story, readers will experience a sense of déjà vu.

The intimate scenes between the two lovers are written with great passion and authenticity. The way Morgan handles Drew in their early years feels raw and genuine. Drew's patience and unwavering dedication to Morgan later on is a testament to their deep love for each other. One of the standout moments is when Drew asks Morgan to be her first, revealing her vulnerable side as she offers herself completely to Morgan in every sense. The depth of emotion and connection between the two main characters in this scene is exceptional.

Don't Circle Or masterfully deepens the emotional connections between its characters, drawing the readers into a world where every feeling is vividly experienced. The story meticulously portrays the intricate web of emotions that bind the characters together, from the rawness of heartbreak to the complexities of guilt and the unwavering dedication of love. The intimate scenes are not merely displays of passion but rather moments that resonate with profound emotional depth, laying bare the characters' vulnerabilities and forging an unbreakable bond between them. This emotional richness creates an immersive experience, allowing readers to truly feel the depth of the characters' love, pain, and eventual triumph, making Don't Circle Or a poignant and unforgettable romance.

Before finishing, a spoiler alert: this is indeed a tear-jerker, so keep your tissue box handy. There were times I found myself crying without even realizing it, and let me tell you, it is a bad cry, uncontrollably bad...
]]> <![CDATA[Reality In Check (South Downs Romance #2)]]> 186329104
From the multi-award-winning, best-selling author of Broken Beyond Repair comes a new sapphic celebrity ice queen romance � read as a standalone or as the second book in the South Downs Romance series.

Sculptor Arte Tremaine is thrown into the hospitality industry when her beloved late grandmother bequeaths her and her sister a charming yet rundown country hotel with zero guests. Arte is determined to make a success of the business, despite her sister snapping at her heels to sell it and painful memories confronting her inside.

Charlotte Beaufort, heiress to a hotel empire, television celebrity, and self-confessed city woman, hits the countryside to film an episode of her reality television show, Hotel SOS, where she immediately clashes with the overwhelmed Arte and her inquisitive Labrador, Rodin.

Arte doesn’t take kindly to Charlotte’s attitude and frank opinions about her hotel, but when they are thrown together, she begins to realise not everything is as it seems with her attractive nemesis. As Arte begins to chip away at Charlotte's icy exterior, both women begin to realise dreams and reality rarely entwine and that, sometimes, our dreams are not even our own.

Can the artsy dreamer and ambitious heiress face the reality of their situations and discover their true paths? And if so, can those paths lead them toward true love?]]> 348 Emily Banting 1915157110 Jay 3 agegap, icequeen, wlw 4.19 2023 Reality In Check (South Downs Romance #2)
author: Emily Banting
name: Jay
average rating: 4.19
book published: 2023
rating: 3
read at: 2024/03/01
date added: 2024/03/07
shelves: agegap, icequeen, wlw
review:

]]> Love Is...? 209148564
Then a phone call changes everything. Would Tessa like to work for an international celebrity in Melbourne? The only answer is "Yes, of course."

Jayde Ferguson is not a fan of love. According to Jayde, the definition of love is heartbreak. She’d rather have a string of one-night stands and concentrate on her job as a journalist writing articles for local Melbourne papers.

When Jayde is given the opportunity to profile an international celebrity for Culture magazine, she is thrilled. Then appalled. An in-depth interview about the meaning of love? How does someone write about a topic that is impossible to define?

After a mixup at the celebrity’s front gate, Tessa and Jayde discover that they will be spending months working in the same household. So, what happens when two people, who don't have a clue about love, accidentally discover its true meaning?

One chaperone, one journalist, one precocious teenager, one wedding, one celebrity profile, and maybe all the answers to…Love Is�?

A story that completes the Coming Home universe.]]> 353 K.J. Wrights Jay 0 to-read 4.51 2024 Love Is...?
author: K.J. Wrights
name: Jay
average rating: 4.51
book published: 2024
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2024/03/07
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> <![CDATA[Winter Jacket (Winter Jacket, #1)]]> 17969969 Graduate school prepares you for many things � the rigor of academic life, how to pull consecutive all-nighters, and living off a meager stipend without having to be roommates with cockroaches.

Elle Graft might have made it through six years of graduate school, but she's not convinced she'll survive her first position as an Assistant Professor.

Because for all she learned, graduate school never prepared her for dealing with a student crush.]]> 250 Eliza Lentzski 1483908771 Jay 4 3.93 2013 Winter Jacket (Winter Jacket, #1)
author: Eliza Lentzski
name: Jay
average rating: 3.93
book published: 2013
rating: 4
read at: 2024/02/01
date added: 2024/02/29
shelves:
review:

]]> The Forever Factor 61440201
Reid never fully understood why Bethany withheld forgiveness all those years ago, but no kiss since has ever been as satisfying as Bethany’s lips on hers. The happenstance run-in was a stroke of luck and ignites Reid’s plan to get to the bottom of Bethany’s silence, a mystery she can’t let drop. But she hadn’t planned on the reckoning in store when she learns the truth.

When Bethany and Reid confront their past, they give new meaning to letting go, forgiveness, and a future worth fighting for.]]> 289 Melissa Brayden 1636793584 Jay 4 4.03 2022 The Forever Factor
author: Melissa Brayden
name: Jay
average rating: 4.03
book published: 2022
rating: 4
read at: 2024/01/01
date added: 2024/02/29
shelves:
review:

]]> No Way Out 208295129 When bonds break, the truth bleeds.

If you liked Harlan Coben's Netflix hit, 'Fool Me Once' then you'll love 'No Way Out'An unputdownable psychological thriller with twists that keep you guessing to the very last breath.In a world where artificial intelligence can sift through the veils of reality to expose deep fakes, the human heart remains an enigma, riddled with secrets far more complex than any algorithm.

VeriScan AI stands at the forefront of the battle against digital deceit, led by CEO Abigail Elsher. Yet, beneath the surface of groundbreaking innovation, the fabric of trust within her executive team is frayed to its breaking point.

In a desperate bid to mend what's been torn, a team bonding weekend is arranged with the hope of rebuilding unity. Little do they know it will become a crucible of suspense, betrayal, and murder.

As the retreat spirals into a chilling game of survival, the veil of professional courtesies is torn away, revealing the raw, unvarnished truths of those who once claimed loyalty. Every twist and turn delves deeper into the psyche of its characters, peeling back layers to expose the dark heart of ambition and the perilous edge of human frailty.

When one of their own is found dead, the line between ally and adversary blurs, leaving every whispered secret and shared memory suspect. In this high-stakes game of shadows, the participants must confront the most harrowing when the bonds of trust are severed, how do you discern the truth from the lies?

For fans of Harlan Coben, this novel promises a journey through the labyrinth of the mind, where the only certainty is the inexorable force of Karma.]]> 343 Susie Fleming Jay 5
One monster.

Eight individuals.

Eight POVs.

And... No Way Out!

NWO is more than just a psychological thriller; it's a rollercoaster ride that will keep you on the edge of your seat until the very end. This book will haunt your thoughts long after you've turned the final page, and it lives up to its promise of being "unputdownable."

With skillful writing, author Ruby Scott has crafted a story that demands your full attention. Each character is meticulously developed, but it's the ruthless antagonist that steals the show. Ruby has created a truly remarkable villain that readers will love to hate.

NWO is not a simple read; it's complex and deliberately crafted to keep readers guessing. With its "Hitchcock-esque" premise, we witness a murder at the beginning and are then taken on a journey through various perspectives and angles until the shocking climax. Just when you think you have it all figured out, the truth will leave you reeling in disbelief.

The unique aspect of this story is how it presents 8 parallel pictures through 8 different POVs, causing readers to constantly shift their focus and form new assumptions as they try to solve the mystery alongside the characters. When you finally get to know the mastermind in Part III, you will be stunned in disbelief and question all your previous assumptions. Finally, in Part IV, when you get to know the perpetrator, you will be dumbfounded.

This technique of switching between POVs and revealing crucial details at key moments keeps readers on edge, creating a sense of unpredictability and tension that is hard to shake off. It also serves as a powerful reminder that sometimes the truth is right in front of us, but we choose to ignore it.

Perhaps the biggest takeaway from this riveting story is the message that our true character is revealed when no one is watching. And as readers will discover, the truth can be more twisted and chilling than any fiction.

In short, NWO is a gripping tale filled with twists and turns that will leave you breathless. Beyond the suspense, there are thought-provoking themes about humanity and self-discovery. A must-read for any fan of thrillers or anyone who enjoys being kept up past their bedtime.


(I received this ARC in exchange for an unbiased review)]]> 4.67 No Way Out
author: Susie Fleming
name: Jay
average rating: 4.67
book published:
rating: 5
read at: 2024/02/01
date added: 2024/02/28
shelves: thriller, psychological, murder-mystery
review:
One murder.

One monster.

Eight individuals.

Eight POVs.

And... No Way Out!

NWO is more than just a psychological thriller; it's a rollercoaster ride that will keep you on the edge of your seat until the very end. This book will haunt your thoughts long after you've turned the final page, and it lives up to its promise of being "unputdownable."

With skillful writing, author Ruby Scott has crafted a story that demands your full attention. Each character is meticulously developed, but it's the ruthless antagonist that steals the show. Ruby has created a truly remarkable villain that readers will love to hate.

NWO is not a simple read; it's complex and deliberately crafted to keep readers guessing. With its "Hitchcock-esque" premise, we witness a murder at the beginning and are then taken on a journey through various perspectives and angles until the shocking climax. Just when you think you have it all figured out, the truth will leave you reeling in disbelief.

The unique aspect of this story is how it presents 8 parallel pictures through 8 different POVs, causing readers to constantly shift their focus and form new assumptions as they try to solve the mystery alongside the characters. When you finally get to know the mastermind in Part III, you will be stunned in disbelief and question all your previous assumptions. Finally, in Part IV, when you get to know the perpetrator, you will be dumbfounded.

This technique of switching between POVs and revealing crucial details at key moments keeps readers on edge, creating a sense of unpredictability and tension that is hard to shake off. It also serves as a powerful reminder that sometimes the truth is right in front of us, but we choose to ignore it.

Perhaps the biggest takeaway from this riveting story is the message that our true character is revealed when no one is watching. And as readers will discover, the truth can be more twisted and chilling than any fiction.

In short, NWO is a gripping tale filled with twists and turns that will leave you breathless. Beyond the suspense, there are thought-provoking themes about humanity and self-discovery. A must-read for any fan of thrillers or anyone who enjoys being kept up past their bedtime.


(I received this ARC in exchange for an unbiased review)
]]> Gold 37800894 When you spend your life at the top, there’s only one direction you can go.
Pro alpine skier, Aspen Archer’s downfall happened in the worst possible way—a career-ending crash on a gold medal run at the 2010 Vancouver Olympics. Aspen packed up her broken life, picked up her broken body and now hides in comfortable obscurity at ski resorts around the world, coaching tourists and ignoring her problems.
Cate Tierney knows who Aspen Archer is, but the last place she expected to meet the former Olympian was during a ski trip to Australia. Hurt by a past relationship, and with a teenage daughter to protect, Cate’s initial reluctance is quickly overcome by her intense attraction. But with Cate’s vacation ending in a few short weeks and Aspen’s aversion to staying in one place, can their encounter be anything more than a fling?
When Cate discovers Aspen’s secrets, Aspen is forced to face everything she’d been trying to forget. And everything she’d forgotten she wanted. Aspen already knows the route from start to finish doesn’t always go as planned. Now she needs to figure out how to get herself back on course for good.

Genre: Romance
Editor: Cath Walker
Cover Designer: Judith Fellows]]> 283 E.J. Noyes 1594936102 Jay 0 to-read 4.33 2018 Gold
author: E.J. Noyes
name: Jay
average rating: 4.33
book published: 2018
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2024/02/23
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> <![CDATA[Last Night at the Telegraph Club]]> 35224992 A story of love and duty set in San Francisco's Chinatown during the Red Scare.

“That book. It was about two women, and they fell in love with each other.� And then Lily asked the question that had taken root in her, that was even now unfurling its leaves and demanding to be shown the sun: “Have you ever heard of such a thing?�

Seventeen-year-old Lily Hu can’t remember exactly when the question took root, but the answer was in full bloom the moment she and Kathleen Miller walked under the flashing neon sign of a lesbian bar called the Telegraph Club.

America in 1954 is not a safe place for two girls to fall in love, especially not in Chinatown. Red-Scare paranoia threatens everyone, including Chinese Americans like Lily. With deportation looming over her father—despite his hard-won citizenship—Lily and Kath risk everything to let their love see the light of day.]]> 409 Malinda Lo 0525555250 Jay 0 to-read 4.21 2021 Last Night at the Telegraph Club
author: Malinda Lo
name: Jay
average rating: 4.21
book published: 2021
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2024/02/22
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> Alone 43196427 Since Celeste has never really worried about being alone, the generous paycheck she’ll receive for her participation in the solitary psychological experiment seems like easy money.
When she finds an injured hiker in the woods bordering her living compound, her strictly governed world is thrown into disarray. But even as she struggles with the morality of breaking the rules of the experiment, Celeste can’t deny her growing attraction to the kind and enigmatic Olivia Soldano. Still, how much can you really trust a stranger? And how much can you trust yourself when you know all the faces you’ve seen and voices you’ve heard for the past three years have only been your imagination?
But what’s real? Celeste’s reality may lie somewhere between the absolute truth and a carefully constructed deception.

Genre: Romance
Editor: Cath Walker
Cover Designer: Judith Fellows]]> 288 E.J. Noyes 1642470473 Jay 5 5/5

Alone really resonated with me on a deep emotional level. It was quite a journey, and I have to give credit to E.J. for that. As I've read through the entire ASK, Tell series, I've noticed a pattern. One of her main characters always appears to be this super in-control, stoic type, always composed and dutiful. But beneath that facade, there's always a vulnerable person waiting to discard the "I'm totally unperturbed" act. In Ask, Tell, it was Lt. Col Rebecca Keane, and now it's Olivia Soldano. What she did with Celeste was undeniably harsh. It's cruel to give someone hope and then snatch it away, watching them suffer. However, when I take a step back and look at it objectively, Olivia isn't the monster we'd like to believe. Plus, she's far from composed and indifferent as she seems. She's deeply invested in Celeste, almost jeopardizing the entire experiment. I believe E.J. uses the logs written by Olivia to showcase her constant inner struggle, validating Olivia's redemption; otherwise, this story would have been a complete downer.

This book shares many similarities with Don't Ask, Don't Tell/If I Don't Ask. It also exudes a Kafkaesque vibe. In DADT, Sabine's favorite book was Metamorphosis, and here Celeste is trapped in her own mind, tormented by her family and friends, heading towards total despair. Celeste recognized this, which is why it was crucial for her to accept Olivia in the end.
While I appreciate the concept of slow and fast time, as a reader, it felt the opposite for me. Celeste's fast time seemed incredibly slow and dull, while her slow time felt fast-paced.

E.J.'s storytelling skills are exceptional, and this book clearly demonstrates that. The most impactful moment for me was the tree hugging scene; it brought tears to my eyes. Her ability to articulate emotions that are usually challenging to express is truly remarkable.

Now, about the intimate scenes � in my opinion, E.J. excels in writing them, and this book is no exception. Those love-making scenes were undeniably intense.

However, one aspect I didn't quite connect with was the second half of the story; it felt both rushed and dragged out simultaneously. I can't quite put my finger on it, but that's the impression it left me with.

This story deeply affected me, and I'm still engrossed in it. Perhaps later, I can articulate my thoughts on it with more clarity.]]> 4.27 2019 Alone
author: E.J. Noyes
name: Jay
average rating: 4.27
book published: 2019
rating: 5
read at: 2024/02/20
date added: 2024/02/22
shelves:
review:
5/5

Alone really resonated with me on a deep emotional level. It was quite a journey, and I have to give credit to E.J. for that. As I've read through the entire ASK, Tell series, I've noticed a pattern. One of her main characters always appears to be this super in-control, stoic type, always composed and dutiful. But beneath that facade, there's always a vulnerable person waiting to discard the "I'm totally unperturbed" act. In Ask, Tell, it was Lt. Col Rebecca Keane, and now it's Olivia Soldano. What she did with Celeste was undeniably harsh. It's cruel to give someone hope and then snatch it away, watching them suffer. However, when I take a step back and look at it objectively, Olivia isn't the monster we'd like to believe. Plus, she's far from composed and indifferent as she seems. She's deeply invested in Celeste, almost jeopardizing the entire experiment. I believe E.J. uses the logs written by Olivia to showcase her constant inner struggle, validating Olivia's redemption; otherwise, this story would have been a complete downer.

This book shares many similarities with Don't Ask, Don't Tell/If I Don't Ask. It also exudes a Kafkaesque vibe. In DADT, Sabine's favorite book was Metamorphosis, and here Celeste is trapped in her own mind, tormented by her family and friends, heading towards total despair. Celeste recognized this, which is why it was crucial for her to accept Olivia in the end.
While I appreciate the concept of slow and fast time, as a reader, it felt the opposite for me. Celeste's fast time seemed incredibly slow and dull, while her slow time felt fast-paced.

E.J.'s storytelling skills are exceptional, and this book clearly demonstrates that. The most impactful moment for me was the tree hugging scene; it brought tears to my eyes. Her ability to articulate emotions that are usually challenging to express is truly remarkable.

Now, about the intimate scenes � in my opinion, E.J. excels in writing them, and this book is no exception. Those love-making scenes were undeniably intense.

However, one aspect I didn't quite connect with was the second half of the story; it felt both rushed and dragged out simultaneously. I can't quite put my finger on it, but that's the impression it left me with.

This story deeply affected me, and I'm still engrossed in it. Perhaps later, I can articulate my thoughts on it with more clarity.
]]> <![CDATA[The Headmistress (The Headmistress, #1)]]> 58674511 ASIN B09BM97JZC moved to the more recent edition

Lambda Literary Award Winner 2022, Lesbian Romance

A chance encounter. An unforgettable night.
And back home, trouble is brewing on the remote island of Three Dragons, where nothing feels like it used to. Alone and lonely, Sam Threadneedle wishes upon a star, hoping for change. But when said change comes, it’s with a roar and not a whimper.
Torn between loyalty and lust, Sam is forced to re-evaluate everything.
Can she and the Home of Dragons withstand the storm that is Magdalene Nox, or will any and all crumble?
Not everything is as it seems, and as she slowly unravels the mysteries behind the centuries-old walls, Sam realizes that home is much more than oak and stone.]]> 280 Milena McKay Jay 0 to-read 4.43 2021 The Headmistress (The Headmistress, #1)
author: Milena McKay
name: Jay
average rating: 4.43
book published: 2021
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2024/02/05
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> The Road Home 50663106 Gwen and Lila are forced to work together to support the woman they both care about, even though they’re rivals for a place in Carol’s life. The last thing either expects is an attraction as undeniable as it is inconvenient. When Lila helps Gwen rebuild trust with her mom, Gwen’s heart begins to thaw. But every family has a closet full of skeletons, and when she discovers the family secret, will she ever be able to trust Lila again?

Cover Artist: Tammy Seidick
Genres: Contemporary / Romance
Tags: Enemies to Lovers Romance, Homecoming, Age Gap, Small Town Romances
Words: 86,000]]> 290 Erin Zak 1635556333 Jay 4 4.01 2020 The Road Home
author: Erin Zak
name: Jay
average rating: 4.01
book published: 2020
rating: 4
read at: 2024/02/05
date added: 2024/02/05
shelves:
review:

]]> The Brutal Truth 35335134 A lesbian romance about the lies we tell ourselves.

108,000 words
Themes: Australia · media mogul boss · New York · newspaper · reporter]]> 339 Lee Winter 3955339009 Jay 5 4.32 2017 The Brutal Truth
author: Lee Winter
name: Jay
average rating: 4.32
book published: 2017
rating: 5
read at: 2024/01/14
date added: 2024/02/04
shelves:
review:

]]> Honey in the Marrow 62971189 An enemies-to-friends-to-lovers lesbian romance about finding heart, hope, and second chances you never thought you’d have.

Stella Carter is a former criminal prosecutor and new widow facing down middle age alone in Los Angeles. Without being a prestigious lawyer and someone’s wife, she’s not sure who she is anymore or where her life is headed.

When she invites her niece to move in with her, Stella accidentally reconnects with her former colleague, LAPD Captain Elizabeth Murphy. The woman is beautiful but cold; someone she was always at odds with on the job.

Surprisingly, Stella finds herself leaning on her niece and Elizabeth more and more to navigate her loss. But as time goes on, Stella can’t keep seeing Elizabeth and pretending she’s not attracted to her. Besides, there’s absolutely no way Elizabeth feels the same way. Is there?]]> 298 Emily Waters 3963247258 Jay 4 4.42 Honey in the Marrow
author: Emily Waters
name: Jay
average rating: 4.42
book published:
rating: 4
read at: 2024/01/27
date added: 2024/02/04
shelves:
review:

]]> Guarding Evelyn 61618693
Evelyn Glass disappeared from the silver screen unexpectedly when she decided to have a family. At least that’s what the public thinks. She’s making a comeback, though. After landing a role as the star on a top-rated television show, she feels invincible once again. As her ego starts to grow, so does her fan base, and attention, unwanted and otherwise, comes from every direction.

Evelyn and Arden butt heads at every pass. Evelyn’s desire to prove herself puts her in harm’s way more than once, until a situation occurs that put her children’s lives at risk. Her change of heart regarding not just Arden’s protection, but the attraction simmering between them, will change her entire life.

Can Arden prove her love means more to Evelyn than fame before it’s too late?]]> 323 Erin Zak Jay 4 3.90/5

I listened to the AB.

Guarding Evelyn is a decent read, with a middle-tier level of angst. The enemies-to-lovers trope is at play, albeit not in a conventional manner. However, I feel that some angles could have been measured properly.

Arden Ryan, the bodyguard, took a bullet for Jennifer Simmons, Madame President. It is revealed that Arden and Jennifer had an intimate relationship and fell in love. This relationship caused Arden to have a lapse of judgment, which almost cost her life and eventually led to her dismissal as the President's bodyguard. Throughout the story, readers are led to believe that Arden was deeply involved in this relationship, as was Jennifer. However, Jennifer could not continue the relationship with her bodyguard, resulting in Arden being removed from both her life and her job.

Arden then started anew as a bodyguard for Evelyn Glass, a Hollywood royalist, and fell in love. Isn't that too early? I'm trying to understand Arden's psyche here. Did she have a habit of falling for powerful women? Although she loved Jennifer dearly, it seemed she was more than ready to fall for Evelyn, even when Evelyn came across as difficult. It felt as if Arden was speeding ahead without waiting for the green light. Was it a defense mechanism for her to forget the heartbreak?

Did Arden really get over Jennifer Simmons? I don't think so. When she was on her way to meet Evelyn and set everything right, she received a call from Jennifer. During their conversation, when Jennifer addressed her as 'My Dear' instead of 'My Love', Arden looked visibly heartbroken. Why? Especially when she established that Evelyn was worth the bullet she took for the second time.

Evelyn's ice-queenish persona was attempted but felt half-hearted. It seemed rushed for her to shed her ice-queen skin.

The lovemaking scenes were steamy, meaningful, and well positioned and timed.

Now, did I like the read? Yes, I did. As I said, it was a decent read with some glitches that could've been adjusted.]]> 4.09 Guarding Evelyn
author: Erin Zak
name: Jay
average rating: 4.09
book published:
rating: 4
read at: 2024/02/01
date added: 2024/02/01
shelves:
review:
3.90/5

I listened to the AB.

Guarding Evelyn is a decent read, with a middle-tier level of angst. The enemies-to-lovers trope is at play, albeit not in a conventional manner. However, I feel that some angles could have been measured properly.

Arden Ryan, the bodyguard, took a bullet for Jennifer Simmons, Madame President. It is revealed that Arden and Jennifer had an intimate relationship and fell in love. This relationship caused Arden to have a lapse of judgment, which almost cost her life and eventually led to her dismissal as the President's bodyguard. Throughout the story, readers are led to believe that Arden was deeply involved in this relationship, as was Jennifer. However, Jennifer could not continue the relationship with her bodyguard, resulting in Arden being removed from both her life and her job.

Arden then started anew as a bodyguard for Evelyn Glass, a Hollywood royalist, and fell in love. Isn't that too early? I'm trying to understand Arden's psyche here. Did she have a habit of falling for powerful women? Although she loved Jennifer dearly, it seemed she was more than ready to fall for Evelyn, even when Evelyn came across as difficult. It felt as if Arden was speeding ahead without waiting for the green light. Was it a defense mechanism for her to forget the heartbreak?

Did Arden really get over Jennifer Simmons? I don't think so. When she was on her way to meet Evelyn and set everything right, she received a call from Jennifer. During their conversation, when Jennifer addressed her as 'My Dear' instead of 'My Love', Arden looked visibly heartbroken. Why? Especially when she established that Evelyn was worth the bullet she took for the second time.

Evelyn's ice-queenish persona was attempted but felt half-hearted. It seemed rushed for her to shed her ice-queen skin.

The lovemaking scenes were steamy, meaningful, and well positioned and timed.

Now, did I like the read? Yes, I did. As I said, it was a decent read with some glitches that could've been adjusted.
]]> Hotel Queens 55855113 Over one long night at a bar in Las Vegas, two powerful hotel executives meet, flirt, and challenge each other—having no clue they’re rivals after the same dream deal.
Brilliant ice queen Amelia Duxton is a hotel vice president who thrives on control, truth, and efficiency. She’s in no mood for love or the mess it brings. All she wants is to buy the coveted Mayfair Palace—a massive deal that could finally help her land the CEO job in her family’s hotel empire.
Fiery Kai Fisher is charming and chaotic and renowned for closing ambitious deals. Her sights are set on snatching the Mayfair Palace out from under the nose of her hated arch rivals, the Duxton family.
But when secrets emerge and everything starts to fall apart, how can either of the warring women win—especially when they’ve just met their match?

Tags: fire queen, hotel executives, ice queen romance, Las Vegas, opposites-attract romance
104,000 words]]> 319 Lee Winter 3963244585 Jay 5 4.5/5
I listened to the AB and needless to say Angela Dawe is phenomenal.

When diving into Lee Winter's "Hotel Queen," you can always count on the main characters to be exquisitely crafted. The titular Ice Queen is as chilling as the polar ice sheet itself, with a demeanor that could cool even the hottest desert. The dialogues in Winter's books are always a treat, dripping with wit and snark, and "Hotel Queen" is no exception.

The storyline follows the beloved Enemies-Lovers trope, which happens to be a personal favorite of mine. The level of angst in the story falls into the mid-lower category, making it an easy read without sacrificing the exceptional craftsmanship of the narrative.

The chemistry between Kai and Amelia leaps off the pages from the very beginning. Their romance feels incredibly organic, and the lovemaking scene is nothing short of mind-blowing. Lee Winter has once again delivered a captivating tale that effortlessly blends sizzling romance with sharp, clever dialogue.]]> 4.31 2020 Hotel Queens
author: Lee Winter
name: Jay
average rating: 4.31
book published: 2020
rating: 5
read at: 2024/01/28
date added: 2024/02/01
shelves:
review:
4.5/5
I listened to the AB and needless to say Angela Dawe is phenomenal.

When diving into Lee Winter's "Hotel Queen," you can always count on the main characters to be exquisitely crafted. The titular Ice Queen is as chilling as the polar ice sheet itself, with a demeanor that could cool even the hottest desert. The dialogues in Winter's books are always a treat, dripping with wit and snark, and "Hotel Queen" is no exception.

The storyline follows the beloved Enemies-Lovers trope, which happens to be a personal favorite of mine. The level of angst in the story falls into the mid-lower category, making it an easy read without sacrificing the exceptional craftsmanship of the narrative.

The chemistry between Kai and Amelia leaps off the pages from the very beginning. Their romance feels incredibly organic, and the lovemaking scene is nothing short of mind-blowing. Lee Winter has once again delivered a captivating tale that effortlessly blends sizzling romance with sharp, clever dialogue.
]]> Sliced Ice 58051398
Find out what happened after Lee’s stories ended, and in one case, before it began. Iconic characters revisited include Elena Bartell (The Brutal Truth), Elizabeth Thornton (Breaking Character), Monique Carson (Hotel Queens), Natalya Tsvetnenko (Requiem for Immortals), Catherine Ayers (The Red Files), and Cynthia Redwell (Under Your Skin).

Closeted actresses Elizabeth and Summer come out publicly in Skye Storm’s Invite Absolutely Everyone Ultimate Pool Party.

CEO sex fantasies goddess Monique indulges in sizzling hijinks with the client you’d least expect in Number Five.

There’s a wedding proposal in The Brutal Lie after media mogul Elena has exacted her sweet revenge on a rival for outing her and Maddie.

Ambitious and acidic TV producer Cynthia wakes up the day after Catherine Ayers’s wedding with a hangover and a butch ex-softballer in her bed in When DC Met Iowa.

It’s launch day for reporter Maddie’s book of blogs in Aliens of New York. But her publicist is confounded by the crazy rumor that media mogul Elena Bartell might show up. Why would she?

Sporting goods store manager Dani endures a quirky Aussie Christmas with her secret lesbian lover while facing off against her intimidating Great-Aunt Jean in The Friend.

In Five Times Felicity Met Elena, overlooked lawyer Felicity shares her first impressions of the imposing media legend who will one day become her boss.
Catherine and Lauren, two reporters madly missing each other, make their own sexy fun at an eccentric LA party in Flashbang.

How does a renowned cellist and former Australian assassin cope with retirement from her more lethal habits in Vienna? Find out in Love is Not Nothing.
In First-Class Villains, four villains from multiple Lee Winter books accidentally meet in a fogged-in airport lounge. To pass the time, they place a small wager to decide who is the worst of them all.]]> 198 Lee Winter 396324531X Jay 5 4.48 2021 Sliced Ice
author: Lee Winter
name: Jay
average rating: 4.48
book published: 2021
rating: 5
read at: 2024/01/01
date added: 2024/01/28
shelves:
review:

]]> Love is not Nothing 36081810
It’s now been two years since Australia’s top cellist and secret underworld assassin Natalya “Requiem� Tsvetnenko stood in the rain, faced her biggest terror, and asked her “little mouse�, Alison Ryan, to move to Europe with her.

What has happened since? Does Requiem still burn to hunt? Has she been tamed by love? Was her prediction right that they could never work out; that they would implode before too long? How could two such different people ever last?

In a single, powerful day in Vienna, all their doubts are faced and the truth seeps into the light.

A short-story sequel to lesbian crime noir Requiem for Immortals.

Word Count: 10,000 words]]> Lee Winter 395533872X Jay 5 4.28 2017 Love is not Nothing
author: Lee Winter
name: Jay
average rating: 4.28
book published: 2017
rating: 5
read at: 2024/01/01
date added: 2024/01/28
shelves:
review:

]]> The Lily and the Crown 34828410
The Lily and the Crown is a lesbian romance about daring to risk your heart with someone you shouldn’t.

87,000 words]]> 263 Roslyn Sinclair 3955339424 Jay 4 3.90/5

I listened to the audiobook as it was narrated by the voice magician Angela Dawe.]]> 4.29 2017 The Lily and the Crown
author: Roslyn Sinclair
name: Jay
average rating: 4.29
book published: 2017
rating: 4
read at: 2024/01/01
date added: 2024/01/23
shelves:
review:
3.90/5

I listened to the audiobook as it was narrated by the voice magician Angela Dawe.
]]> Requiem for Immortals 30069169
Winner of the Golden Crown Literary Award (2017) for Mystery/Thriller and Lambda finalist.

Length: 80,000 words
Themes: assassin · Australia · awakening · cellist · crime · homicide · lesbian · lesbian thriller · Melbourne · murder · music · police]]> 284 Lee Winter 3955337103 Jay 5 4.5/5

After reading 3-4 books, I can say that I am now familiar with Lee Winter's writing style. So, when I started reading "Requiem for Immortals," I assumed that certain things were guaranteed.

The main characters were almost perfectly developed. Winter painstakingly built Natalya, also known as Requiem. She is lethal, ruthless, the epitome of menace, and an Apex Predator with a hint of megalomania. She is the ultimate executioner of injustice, and she loves ladies, cherry on the cake.]]> 4.18 2016 Requiem for Immortals
author: Lee Winter
name: Jay
average rating: 4.18
book published: 2016
rating: 5
read at: 2024/01/16
date added: 2024/01/17
shelves: high-angst, thriller, prey-predator, wlw
review:
4.5/5

After reading 3-4 books, I can say that I am now familiar with Lee Winter's writing style. So, when I started reading "Requiem for Immortals," I assumed that certain things were guaranteed.

The main characters were almost perfectly developed. Winter painstakingly built Natalya, also known as Requiem. She is lethal, ruthless, the epitome of menace, and an Apex Predator with a hint of megalomania. She is the ultimate executioner of injustice, and she loves ladies, cherry on the cake.
]]> The Awkward Truth 58541411 This funny opposites-attract lesbian romance digs up the awkward truth about what really matters in life.

Ambitious ice queen and corporate lawyer Felicity Simmons has spent her life focused on one thing: scuttling up the career ladder. She’s achingly close to taking charge of a media empire for her boss when she’s sent to investigate a South Bronx charity that helps homeless people’s pets.

Has the charity made off with her boss’s generous donation? And who on earth is that gorgeous soft-butch veterinarian who looks as if she could toss a Shetland pony over one shoulder? Not that Felicity has any interest in some opinionated Amazon or her adorable fleabag of a dog.

Felicity is quite sure she will not be distracted, thank you very much. She has a minor mystery to solve, a mentor to impress, and her life’s dream to fulfil. Even if a distraction might be exactly what she needs.]]> Lee Winter Jay 4 4.22 2021 The Awkward Truth
author: Lee Winter
name: Jay
average rating: 4.22
book published: 2021
rating: 4
read at:
date added: 2024/01/14
shelves:
review:

]]> The Order 105299741
When a mysterious, gorgeous woman whisks her onto the dance floor at her father’s masquerade ball, Lucy is thrilled to break the shackles of her privileged but purposeless life. But when the same woman kidnaps her and whisks her to the hideout of the rebels fighting to topple the regime she’s set to inherit, Lucy isn’t thrilled to be actually shackled as a prisoner. She is forced to accompany her abductor—a laconic, rigid assassin named Taylor—across the war-torn regions of the former United States as Taylor carries out perilous assassinations and leads the growing rebel army.

Relying on each other to stay alive, the antagonistic spark between Lucy and Taylor smolders into an ardent flame. Secrets unravel and the stakes get fatally higher, as the battle between new love and old loyalty may prove more dangerous than the war they’re trying to survive.]]> 396 T.J. O'Shea 1642473782 Jay 4 4.25/5 I listened to the Audiobook.

The Order by T.J. O'Shea is a gripping and well-crafted story that kept me hooked from beginning to end. The narrator's performance was exceptional, bringing the characters and their emotions to life in a way that truly enhanced the listening experience. The story itself was intricately woven, with twists and turns that kept me guessing until the very end.

One aspect of the book that stood out to me was the exceptional character development, particularly for Taylor and Lucy. Their growth and transformation throughout the story were truly remarkable, and I found myself becoming deeply invested in their journeys. Even the supporting characters were given depth and complexity, making them feel like real individuals with their own motivations and struggles.

However, there were a few elements that caught my attention and left me wanting more. One such aspect was Hunter's motivation to kill Thea, which felt slightly underdeveloped. While I understood the general reasoning behind it, I felt that Hunter needed a stronger and more compelling reason to want to kill her own mother. This would have added an extra layer of complexity to her character and made her actions more believable.

Additionally, I found the maturity of the main characters, especially Taylor, to be slightly unrealistic for their age. At only 19 years old, it felt unlikely for them to possess such depth and wisdom. While it is possible for individuals to be mature beyond their years, I would have liked to see a bit more exploration of their youth and the challenges that come with it.

Furthermore, the use of the line "I like it when you come for me, baby" during the characters' first intimate encounter felt a bit premature. It would have been more fitting to save such a line for a later, more intense moment in their relationship. This would have added to the emotional impact and built anticipation for their connection to deepen.

Despite these minor critiques, I thoroughly enjoyed The Order and would have loved to hear more from Taylor's perspective. While she did have a voice in the final portion of the story, I believe her character as a lover was beautifully portrayed. Her shyness, brooding nature, and intensity made her relatable and added depth to her relationship with Lucy.

Additionally, Hunter has the potential to become a fully fleshed-out character. Her flamboyant personality and the layers to her character make her intriguing, and I would have liked to see more exploration of her backstory and motivations.

In conclusion, The Order has all the ingredients to be an outstanding web series. ]]> 4.41 The Order
author: T.J. O'Shea
name: Jay
average rating: 4.41
book published:
rating: 4
read at: 2024/01/01
date added: 2024/01/12
shelves:
review:
4.25/5 I listened to the Audiobook.

The Order by T.J. O'Shea is a gripping and well-crafted story that kept me hooked from beginning to end. The narrator's performance was exceptional, bringing the characters and their emotions to life in a way that truly enhanced the listening experience. The story itself was intricately woven, with twists and turns that kept me guessing until the very end.

One aspect of the book that stood out to me was the exceptional character development, particularly for Taylor and Lucy. Their growth and transformation throughout the story were truly remarkable, and I found myself becoming deeply invested in their journeys. Even the supporting characters were given depth and complexity, making them feel like real individuals with their own motivations and struggles.

However, there were a few elements that caught my attention and left me wanting more. One such aspect was Hunter's motivation to kill Thea, which felt slightly underdeveloped. While I understood the general reasoning behind it, I felt that Hunter needed a stronger and more compelling reason to want to kill her own mother. This would have added an extra layer of complexity to her character and made her actions more believable.

Additionally, I found the maturity of the main characters, especially Taylor, to be slightly unrealistic for their age. At only 19 years old, it felt unlikely for them to possess such depth and wisdom. While it is possible for individuals to be mature beyond their years, I would have liked to see a bit more exploration of their youth and the challenges that come with it.

Furthermore, the use of the line "I like it when you come for me, baby" during the characters' first intimate encounter felt a bit premature. It would have been more fitting to save such a line for a later, more intense moment in their relationship. This would have added to the emotional impact and built anticipation for their connection to deepen.

Despite these minor critiques, I thoroughly enjoyed The Order and would have loved to hear more from Taylor's perspective. While she did have a voice in the final portion of the story, I believe her character as a lover was beautifully portrayed. Her shyness, brooding nature, and intensity made her relatable and added depth to her relationship with Lucy.

Additionally, Hunter has the potential to become a fully fleshed-out character. Her flamboyant personality and the layers to her character make her intriguing, and I would have liked to see more exploration of her backstory and motivations.

In conclusion, The Order has all the ingredients to be an outstanding web series.
]]> When the Past Finds You 123212665 A company buy-out. An arch nemesis returns. A crush that never went away.

Wil thought she had the world ahead of her—eight years of experience in her job, her temper under control and working for her, and a manager who understood her. All Wil’s fears tumble out when her best friend’s stepmom becomes her new manager. No longer able to hide who she is, Wil fights to control her temper and crush on the one person she’s never been able to hold back on.

Lynda has worked hard to get where she is, but when she takes over a new financial company, she knows she has to lay low and rebuild her reputation. When the opportunity arises to work with her estranged stepdaughter’s best friend, she leaps at the chance to reconnect. But she never thought the past would haunt her and the memories of her husband’s death would resurface.

They never wanted to see each other again. Will they be able to overcome their mutual past and find love in the person they least expected? What will happen when fire meets ice?]]> 289 Adrian J. Smith Jay 2
When Will and Lynda meet again after 13 years maybe, it becomes evident that Will's feelings resurface for Lynda(though, it is more of an obsession rather than love). On the other hand, Lynda seems infatuated by the idea of it all. It's as if she is attracted to the forbidden fruit. It's quite unbelievable to see a woman who prides herself on being a protective mother lusting after her daughter's best friend. I couldn't find any genuine love between the main characters, it was all about lust. It felt like two horny teenagers trying to navigate their hormonal surges without any emotional connection.

What I also found hard to believe was that it was Will who was bullying Lynda. Is it really possible for a teenager to have such power over someone who is almost 17 years older than them? And a mental abuse is an abuse, it cannot be served as any other thing, period. ]]> 4.08 When the Past Finds You
author: Adrian J. Smith
name: Jay
average rating: 4.08
book published:
rating: 2
read at: 2024/01/01
date added: 2024/01/11
shelves: high-angst, enemies-lovers, agegap
review:
Certain relationships have boundaries that should never be crossed. In this story, we have Will, a teenager who has developed a crush on Lynda, who happens to be his best friend Isla's stepmom. Lynda is a young stepmom to two teenage daughters and the author emphasizes that she sees Will as just a teenager and is protective of her stepdaughters in her own way. However, she fails to show this to her daughters, but she understands the dynamics.

When Will and Lynda meet again after 13 years maybe, it becomes evident that Will's feelings resurface for Lynda(though, it is more of an obsession rather than love). On the other hand, Lynda seems infatuated by the idea of it all. It's as if she is attracted to the forbidden fruit. It's quite unbelievable to see a woman who prides herself on being a protective mother lusting after her daughter's best friend. I couldn't find any genuine love between the main characters, it was all about lust. It felt like two horny teenagers trying to navigate their hormonal surges without any emotional connection.

What I also found hard to believe was that it was Will who was bullying Lynda. Is it really possible for a teenager to have such power over someone who is almost 17 years older than them? And a mental abuse is an abuse, it cannot be served as any other thing, period.
]]> Playing with Matches 148032652
Life has not gone according to plan for Elizabeth. Laid off from her job in the city, she’s forced back home to help her mom run the family’s B&B during a week-long wedding celebration…for Liz’s ex. Not wanting the groom to know the shambles her life is, she grabs the nearest person—Cori—and tells him how happy they are together.

Liz’s father owning Cori’s building may be the trump card she needs to keep Cori playing along. Can they strike a deal to save Cori’s store and help Liz survive the wedding? Just for the week. There’s no way this fake relationship will turn into the real deal.]]> 240 Georgia Beers 1636795072 Jay 4 ff-romance, shamance, bi-les It has a soothing hallmark movie charm. I listened to the audiobook and enjoyed it. ]]> 3.88 2023 Playing with Matches
author: Georgia Beers
name: Jay
average rating: 3.88
book published: 2023
rating: 4
read at: 2024/01/01
date added: 2024/01/07
shelves: ff-romance, shamance, bi-les
review:
This is cute romance that has employed many popular tropes like fake-romance, friends-lovers etc.
It has a soothing hallmark movie charm. I listened to the audiobook and enjoyed it.
]]> On the Same Page 195096868 Riley Beckett met Gianna Mäkinen � drop-dead gorgeous influencer, trilingual, daughter of world-famous models, yes, that Gianna Mäkinen � their first year at Boston University, and it changed everything for the both of them. After all, when you find the person who just gets you, nothing feels quite "the same" right?


And in the ten years since, Riley has come to depend on Gianna more than anyone else in her life. She knows Gianna just as well as she knows herself � maybe better, some days. She knows Gianna is incredibly sex-positive, she knows Gianna doesn't do romance or relationships, and she knows nothing could ever come between them.


This is what makes sense to her, all of this is status-quo. But when a holiday party mix-up sets in motion a domino effect of changes to these previously inalienable truths, Riley has to question everything she thought she knew about their relationship. What, exactly, does Gianna mean to her after all?

]]> 468 Haley Cass Jay 0 to-read 4.36 2023 On the Same Page
author: Haley Cass
name: Jay
average rating: 4.36
book published: 2023
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2024/01/07
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> Denial 18394877 Amy has the same feelings, but is in denial and vows to marry Josh, Celeste’s twin brother, no matter what. When fate brings them together again, will they give in to their mutual attraction or will they once again deny what they feel.]]> 369 Jackie Kennedy Jay 5 1000000/5. This book is a GEM.

Stepping off the wild ride that is "Denial" feels like getting off a roller coaster � still dizzy, ground shaking beneath me. No denying that.

We dive into the lives of two characters, equally selfish and persuasive, almost bordering on anger. Celeste, oh, that name alone made me fall for her, and then there's Amy. Their connection is instant, but Amy stubbornly denies it until Celeste is on the brink of vanishing from her life, reaching a point of no return.

Both characters are equally self-centered. Celeste, fully aware that Amy is off-limits (I mean, Amy was about to marry Josh, Celeste's twin brother, for heaven's sake!), still wants only her. Their journey starts with an accidental escapade, but Celeste falls hard, plummeting off a cliff straight into a gorge.

Amy, quick to label it an unhealthy attraction, puts the blame squarely on Celeste. She convinces herself and others that Celeste has "infested" her (seriously, WTF, Amy!). Until, that is, she finally faces the truth. It takes Celeste unintentionally gambling with her life (or was it entirely unintentional?) to drive the point home to Amy.

Celeste, despite being selfish and persuasive, is never a coward. She has a big heart, enduring Amy's hurt without pointing fingers. It's almost like Celeste is bordering on masochism. Amy, on the other hand, is undeniably selfish, negative, and cowardly in facing the truth � maybe shaped by her upbringing and childhood experiences.

Throughout, I'm rooting for Celeste to shake some sense into Amy. Yet, 'Amys' are too precious for 'Celestes' to shake; hence, Celeste endures the pain, letting Amy hurt her repeatedly.

Ms. Kennedy skillfully crafts these characters, making them feel incredibly real and human. People often engage in actions deemed 'immoral' in life. This story delves into the lives of two flawed humans, making it relatable. For those on a moral high ground, this book might not be their cup of tea. It's an angst-ridden, perilous journey of two equally stubborn women who eventually find their way home.

The intimate moments are unfiltered, laying bare the raw emotions of the main characters. "Denial" boasts some truly earth-shattering love-making scenes that, surprisingly, never veer out of context or become distasteful.

"Denial" is a gem. I haven't stumbled upon such a deep emotional book in a long time. I'm sure I'll revisit it frequently. If I could make one wish for the author, it would be to spend more time in Celeste's head � that would add even more intrigue. Also, I wonder why there's no audiobook version of this captivating story?!
]]> 4.19 2013 Denial
author: Jackie Kennedy
name: Jay
average rating: 4.19
book published: 2013
rating: 5
read at: 2024/01/06
date added: 2024/01/07
shelves: ff-romance, high-angst, favourites
review:
1000000/5. This book is a GEM.

Stepping off the wild ride that is "Denial" feels like getting off a roller coaster � still dizzy, ground shaking beneath me. No denying that.

We dive into the lives of two characters, equally selfish and persuasive, almost bordering on anger. Celeste, oh, that name alone made me fall for her, and then there's Amy. Their connection is instant, but Amy stubbornly denies it until Celeste is on the brink of vanishing from her life, reaching a point of no return.

Both characters are equally self-centered. Celeste, fully aware that Amy is off-limits (I mean, Amy was about to marry Josh, Celeste's twin brother, for heaven's sake!), still wants only her. Their journey starts with an accidental escapade, but Celeste falls hard, plummeting off a cliff straight into a gorge.

Amy, quick to label it an unhealthy attraction, puts the blame squarely on Celeste. She convinces herself and others that Celeste has "infested" her (seriously, WTF, Amy!). Until, that is, she finally faces the truth. It takes Celeste unintentionally gambling with her life (or was it entirely unintentional?) to drive the point home to Amy.

Celeste, despite being selfish and persuasive, is never a coward. She has a big heart, enduring Amy's hurt without pointing fingers. It's almost like Celeste is bordering on masochism. Amy, on the other hand, is undeniably selfish, negative, and cowardly in facing the truth � maybe shaped by her upbringing and childhood experiences.

Throughout, I'm rooting for Celeste to shake some sense into Amy. Yet, 'Amys' are too precious for 'Celestes' to shake; hence, Celeste endures the pain, letting Amy hurt her repeatedly.

Ms. Kennedy skillfully crafts these characters, making them feel incredibly real and human. People often engage in actions deemed 'immoral' in life. This story delves into the lives of two flawed humans, making it relatable. For those on a moral high ground, this book might not be their cup of tea. It's an angst-ridden, perilous journey of two equally stubborn women who eventually find their way home.

The intimate moments are unfiltered, laying bare the raw emotions of the main characters. "Denial" boasts some truly earth-shattering love-making scenes that, surprisingly, never veer out of context or become distasteful.

"Denial" is a gem. I haven't stumbled upon such a deep emotional book in a long time. I'm sure I'll revisit it frequently. If I could make one wish for the author, it would be to spend more time in Celeste's head � that would add even more intrigue. Also, I wonder why there's no audiobook version of this captivating story?!

]]> <![CDATA[Whistleblower (The Senator's Wife, #3)]]> 204312519 But as the stakes get higher, and the pressures of publicity increase, it isn't only their love that is put to the test.

Revenge. Deceit. Betrayal.
Every action has a reaction. And payback is a...

Whistleblower is Book III of The Senator's Wife Series.]]> 490 Jen Lyon Jay 5 I ship for #CALEX.

It's been a couple of days since I finished reading "Whistleblower," and I'm still under its spell. It picks up right where "Caught Sleeping" left off, making it essential to read it as a continuation of the previous two books, "The Senator's Wife" and "Caught Sleeping." Initially, I favored "Caught Sleeping" over "The Senator's Wife," but "Whistleblower" changed my perspective entirely. Jen Lyon has once again worked her magic, building the story layer by layer.

Catherine and Alex, once again, captured my heart. Lyon has skillfully crafted these characters, giving them both weaknesses and strengths. Catherine, an avant-garde businesswoman, surprises with her vulnerability in personal life. Witnessing her stand up for herself and navigate her relationships with her father and mother was a highlight. And finally, she won against the abomination Carlton Cleveland. I find her insecurities and jealousy, especially concerning Amelia and [spoilers removed], charming. Her reactions to the term 'bigger picture' are consistently hilarious. Catherine's sacrifice for Alex's love is truly admirable. As I've mentioned before, I'm in love with Catherine; she's become one of my favorite fictional characters.

Alex Grey undergoes a remarkable transformation throughout the series, evolving from a shy, petulant child like persona to a strong and resolute lady. Despite her self-deprecation, I still appreciate her introvert and down-to-earth persona.

The introduction of new characters adds a fresh dynamic to the story. It seems Nat might finally find a home with [spoilers removed], and I'm eager to see the softer side of [spoilers removed]. Perhaps no one other than Nat can tame this shrew. A new romance is lurking in the horizon, maybe!

In summary, words fail to capture the essence of this series, but "Whistleblower" holds a special place. The outstanding storyline keeps you awake, and the love scenes though they are few but very tastefully written. The 'Elevator Love' scene, in particular, is delightful. It's heart-breaking that the series has concluded; I would be happy to read another 3-4 books centered around Catherine and Alex.]]> 4.69 Whistleblower (The Senator's Wife, #3)
author: Jen Lyon
name: Jay
average rating: 4.69
book published:
rating: 5
read at: 2024/01/01
date added: 2024/01/03
shelves: agegap, favourites, ff-romance
review:
5⭐⭐⭐⭐� I ship for #CALEX.

It's been a couple of days since I finished reading "Whistleblower," and I'm still under its spell. It picks up right where "Caught Sleeping" left off, making it essential to read it as a continuation of the previous two books, "The Senator's Wife" and "Caught Sleeping." Initially, I favored "Caught Sleeping" over "The Senator's Wife," but "Whistleblower" changed my perspective entirely. Jen Lyon has once again worked her magic, building the story layer by layer.

Catherine and Alex, once again, captured my heart. Lyon has skillfully crafted these characters, giving them both weaknesses and strengths. Catherine, an avant-garde businesswoman, surprises with her vulnerability in personal life. Witnessing her stand up for herself and navigate her relationships with her father and mother was a highlight. And finally, she won against the abomination Carlton Cleveland. I find her insecurities and jealousy, especially concerning Amelia and [spoilers removed], charming. Her reactions to the term 'bigger picture' are consistently hilarious. Catherine's sacrifice for Alex's love is truly admirable. As I've mentioned before, I'm in love with Catherine; she's become one of my favorite fictional characters.

Alex Grey undergoes a remarkable transformation throughout the series, evolving from a shy, petulant child like persona to a strong and resolute lady. Despite her self-deprecation, I still appreciate her introvert and down-to-earth persona.

The introduction of new characters adds a fresh dynamic to the story. It seems Nat might finally find a home with [spoilers removed], and I'm eager to see the softer side of [spoilers removed]. Perhaps no one other than Nat can tame this shrew. A new romance is lurking in the horizon, maybe!

In summary, words fail to capture the essence of this series, but "Whistleblower" holds a special place. The outstanding storyline keeps you awake, and the love scenes though they are few but very tastefully written. The 'Elevator Love' scene, in particular, is delightful. It's heart-breaking that the series has concluded; I would be happy to read another 3-4 books centered around Catherine and Alex.
]]> The Forever and The Now 60228248
Kate Agostino, forty-eight, is not Teflon. Yes, she has a terrific job. But a loving family? Not really. And her personal life is rapidly disintegrating and turning into dust.

When her orange smoothie explodes all over her business suit while she’s on her afternoon walk, Kate simply shakes her head in resignation.

Bron, having witnessed the smoothie eruption, races to help, and suddenly her life takes an unexpected turn.

Falling in love is like watching the grandest sunset on the calmest ocean where the tiniest ripples wear silver sparkles as their hats. Kate and Bron find that sunset on that ocean with those ripples of love, but what happens when you take that love for granted? What happens when your person disappears? The answers are hard to hear and Bron chooses not to listen.

After a relationship break, a family intervention, and conversations that rip apart seams, Bron and Kate eventually find themselves, each other, and their now. And what they discover is that love is the large and the deliberate, and the simple and the small.

So when tragedy strikes, they call on its strength because, when you think about it, love can live on in the forever, particularly if it lives courageously in the now.

A beautifully poignant story about life, love and a loss so tragic that sometimes even the grandest sunset on the calmest ocean with the ripples wearing hats is too heartbreaking to bear.]]> 264 K.J . Jay 5 No.Reviews. Just.My.Views.

KJ has woven a poetic prose into the pages of TFATN. It's like someone is delicately caressing you with a feather, and you're drifting into a delightful slumber slowly, yet knowing that this bliss is ephemeral (as KJ was giving us breadcrumbs). But you immerse yourself in this bliss, and then KJ decides to shatter your slumber, catapulting you, and you fall flat on the surface. You find yourself sitting with Bron, witnessing her agony, the void she felt within herself, clutching that unfinished crane to find the meaning of forever that Kate had given her. What an extraordinary sensation, to experience both sorrow and joy simultaneously, like the intertwining of a gentle breeze and a fierce storm within the same moment. I cried, feeling every bit of raw, unadulterated emotions of Bron, the Panda in human form finally got the jolt, no she is no Teflon anymore, now she has a scar on her heart in the name of Kate Agostino. I'm sure the wound will heal for Bron, but the scar will be there forever to remind her of the journey, the journey of the forever and the now.

I adore the way all the characters are depicted, with a special mention of Bron and Kate. The analogies were excellent, and the wit, so-freaking-good.

If anything Bron and Kate taught us, it's that you never know what is going to happen at the turn in a passage of time, so embrace the one you love and cherish that person, the journey both of you are having till it lasts. Those tiny moments you spend together are NOW, and you do not know when they are going to be your FOREVER.]]> 4.71 The Forever and The Now
author: K.J .
name: Jay
average rating: 4.71
book published:
rating: 5
read at: 2023/12/01
date added: 2024/01/03
shelves: ff-romance, poetic-prose, love-story, favourites
review:
It's been a couple of days since I finished "The Forever and the Now" by KJ. I took some time to share my views with the readers. This is not a review, as I am not in a state to write one. I am still reeling from the effect this novel had on me, and, most importantly, it is going to stay with me for a long time in the future. So, No.Reviews. Just.My.Views.

KJ has woven a poetic prose into the pages of TFATN. It's like someone is delicately caressing you with a feather, and you're drifting into a delightful slumber slowly, yet knowing that this bliss is ephemeral (as KJ was giving us breadcrumbs). But you immerse yourself in this bliss, and then KJ decides to shatter your slumber, catapulting you, and you fall flat on the surface. You find yourself sitting with Bron, witnessing her agony, the void she felt within herself, clutching that unfinished crane to find the meaning of forever that Kate had given her. What an extraordinary sensation, to experience both sorrow and joy simultaneously, like the intertwining of a gentle breeze and a fierce storm within the same moment. I cried, feeling every bit of raw, unadulterated emotions of Bron, the Panda in human form finally got the jolt, no she is no Teflon anymore, now she has a scar on her heart in the name of Kate Agostino. I'm sure the wound will heal for Bron, but the scar will be there forever to remind her of the journey, the journey of the forever and the now.

I adore the way all the characters are depicted, with a special mention of Bron and Kate. The analogies were excellent, and the wit, so-freaking-good.

If anything Bron and Kate taught us, it's that you never know what is going to happen at the turn in a passage of time, so embrace the one you love and cherish that person, the journey both of you are having till it lasts. Those tiny moments you spend together are NOW, and you do not know when they are going to be your FOREVER.
]]> <![CDATA[Chaos Agent (The Villains Series, #2)]]> 75434380
CEO Michelle Hastings has foolishly promoted a kind, clueless activist to her full-time staff. Now, on top of fighting her inconvenient feelings, Michelle must hide the evil they do.

Eden Lawless relishes her new job, the hot boss who gives her butterflies, and her eccentric workmates who tell weird jokes about their day. Blackmail? Hacking? Doxing? Hilarious! But what if it’s not a joke? Would that mean Eden has to fight the boss she’s falling for?

Chaos Agent, the last book in The Villains Series, is a lesbian romance filled with intrigue, humor, hurt, and heart. It’s set in The Red Files universe but can be read as a standalone series.]]> 352 Lee Winter 3963247509 Jay 4 4.47 2023 Chaos Agent (The Villains Series, #2)
author: Lee Winter
name: Jay
average rating: 4.47
book published: 2023
rating: 4
read at:
date added: 2023/12/30
shelves: agegap, enemies-lovers, wlw, icequeen, grumpy-sunshine
review:

]]> <![CDATA[The Fixer (The Villains Series, #1)]]> 75434345 A naive activist is hired by a corporate villain but doesn’t realize it. Cue one awkward farce, a twisty puzzle, and the slowest of slow burns in this opposites-attract, ice queen romance.

Nine years ago, aloof, icy Michelle Hastings chose career over love. She’s now living with that choice as she rules a secret corporation catering to the rich and powerful.

Enter Eden Lawless. The guileless activist finds it a bit weird being employed by a mystery organization to bring down a corrupt mayor. But, hey, she’s up for a challenge. Much harder is getting her beautiful new boss out of her head. The pull between them is electric.

Book one in The Villains Series is a lesbian romance filled with intrigue, humor, and heart. It’s set in The Red Files universe but can be read as a standalone series.]]> 284 Lee Winter 3963247479 Jay 4
I listened to the audiobook just because of the voice magician Angela Dawe.

"The Fixer" by Lee Winter kicks off the Villain Series, showcasing the compelling dynamic between Eden Lawless and Michelle Hastings, who are undeniably polar opposites and arch nemeses. This installment employs the ever-popular tropes of age-gap, enemies-to-lovers (albeit subtly), grumpy-sunshine, and ice queen-ice melter dynamics.

Michelle Hastings is both irritated and intrigued by Eden Lawless, who exhibits a more inquisitive nature compared to the two. She's determined to unravel the enigma beneath Michelle's ruthless exterior, despite being equally annoyed by her. As the tale unfolds, it becomes apparent that the characters are akin to modern-day David and Goliath, each captivated by the other, yet dancing around in denial. The story refrains from delving into steamy moments, with the main characters not even sharing an intense moment, let alone a kiss. Perhaps Ms. Winter intentionally lays the groundwork for their relationship, which looms on the horizon.

It's easy to root for Eden Lawless, yet I find her slightly underwhelming. She's portrayed as a formidable force, akin to a snow piercer cutting through an arctic glacier named Michelle Hastings. However, her character could have been further developed beyond mere strength, as she boldly breaches Michelle's boundaries, with Michelle inexplicably allowing her to do so. Conversely, Michelle's character resonates more with me; she's the devil incarnate on paper, yet she feels more human. Her tumultuous past, including her dealings with Catherine Ayers, adds depth to her complexity. Her vulnerability, stemming from her parents' treatment and her regret over her dealings with Catherine, reveals a woman in turmoil, afraid to love herself and allow others to do the same.

The dialogues are a highlight, brimming with wit and humor. While I found the story a tad lengthy, the gradual development of Michelle's feelings for Eden, the human panda, is palpable, albeit a touch more believability would have enhanced this angle.

]]> 4.32 2023 The Fixer (The Villains Series, #1)
author: Lee Winter
name: Jay
average rating: 4.32
book published: 2023
rating: 4
read at: 2023/12/01
date added: 2023/12/30
shelves: enemies-lovers, agegap, grumpy-sunshine, icequeen, wlw
review:
4.15/5

I listened to the audiobook just because of the voice magician Angela Dawe.

"The Fixer" by Lee Winter kicks off the Villain Series, showcasing the compelling dynamic between Eden Lawless and Michelle Hastings, who are undeniably polar opposites and arch nemeses. This installment employs the ever-popular tropes of age-gap, enemies-to-lovers (albeit subtly), grumpy-sunshine, and ice queen-ice melter dynamics.

Michelle Hastings is both irritated and intrigued by Eden Lawless, who exhibits a more inquisitive nature compared to the two. She's determined to unravel the enigma beneath Michelle's ruthless exterior, despite being equally annoyed by her. As the tale unfolds, it becomes apparent that the characters are akin to modern-day David and Goliath, each captivated by the other, yet dancing around in denial. The story refrains from delving into steamy moments, with the main characters not even sharing an intense moment, let alone a kiss. Perhaps Ms. Winter intentionally lays the groundwork for their relationship, which looms on the horizon.

It's easy to root for Eden Lawless, yet I find her slightly underwhelming. She's portrayed as a formidable force, akin to a snow piercer cutting through an arctic glacier named Michelle Hastings. However, her character could have been further developed beyond mere strength, as she boldly breaches Michelle's boundaries, with Michelle inexplicably allowing her to do so. Conversely, Michelle's character resonates more with me; she's the devil incarnate on paper, yet she feels more human. Her tumultuous past, including her dealings with Catherine Ayers, adds depth to her complexity. Her vulnerability, stemming from her parents' treatment and her regret over her dealings with Catherine, reveals a woman in turmoil, afraid to love herself and allow others to do the same.

The dialogues are a highlight, brimming with wit and humor. While I found the story a tad lengthy, the gradual development of Michelle's feelings for Eden, the human panda, is palpable, albeit a touch more believability would have enhanced this angle.


]]> Art of Magic 54165664
Cath Monroe loves her teaching job, her friends, her family, and her colleagues. They fill her life and her heart. She knows that it’s important to share love with actions and words, but that last one? About the words? That’s a problem. Because when it comes to saying ‘I love you� to her forever person, Cath discovers that she doesn’t really know anything about love at all.

Then, Rica Diamandis strolls into her life. Rica is perfect, sexy, made of stardust and magic, and Cath is intrigued. The sudden availability of a blank canvas, primed for love's artistic brushstrokes, takes Cath’s breath away. But when her father is taken to hospital with a life-threatening disease, Cath boxes up the romance with Rica, and packs it into the back of her heart. Fortunately, the universe has other ideas and Cath begins to realise that embracing emotional chaos is actually the art that creates the magic.

From the world of 'Coming Home', but does stand alone.]]> 233 K.J . Jay 0 to-read 4.46 2020 Art of Magic
author: K.J .
name: Jay
average rating: 4.46
book published: 2020
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2023/12/29
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> Kick Back 50879667
Cameron Weathers is smart, sassy, also has some major trust issues, and knows she is a great reporter if only she was given the chance to shine. Her sexist editor assigns her the job of shadowing some of the players from this season’s women’s Australian Rules Football League so she can write fluffy stories for the lifestyle page. Not exactly hard-hitting journalism.

When Cam and Sophia meet, there’s instant chemistry, which is immediately put on hold when their everyday lives are shattered by misogyny, media manipulation, and tragedy. Cam, Sophia, and the other players discover that football games are not the only contests they need to win. Now they’re fighting for the entire league, their professional status, and even their lives. Sophia and Cam attempt to expose the sinister activities, come to terms with their mutual attraction, and eventually discover that kicking back at those who seek to destroy can open the door to love.]]> 305 K.J . Jay 0 to-read 4.33 2020 Kick Back
author: K.J .
name: Jay
average rating: 4.33
book published: 2020
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2023/12/29
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> <![CDATA[The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo]]> 32620332
Monique is not exactly on top of the world. Her husband has left her, and her professional life is going nowhere. Regardless of why Evelyn has selected her to write her biography, Monique is determined to use this opportunity to jumpstart her career.

Summoned to Evelyn’s luxurious apartment, Monique listens in fascination as the actress tells her story. From making her way to Los Angeles in the 1950s to her decision to leave show business in the �80s, and, of course, the seven husbands along the way, Evelyn unspools a tale of ruthless ambition, unexpected friendship, and a great forbidden love. Monique begins to feel a very real connection to the legendary star, but as Evelyn’s story nears its conclusion, it becomes clear that her life intersects with Monique’s own in tragic and irreversible ways.]]> 389 Taylor Jenkins Reid 1501139231 Jay 5
There are good books, there are excellent books, then there are books like "The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo." I'm stunned, mesmerized, and in a trance with this book. This historical fiction delves into the life of a Hollywood legend and her tumultuous journey. It explores themes of dreams, love, ambition, and the price one must pay to achieve them.

“…do yourself a favor and learn to grab life by the balls, dear."

Evelyn Hugo is a complex character—scheming, overtly ambitious, sometimes cruel—and she owns every bit of it without batting an eyelid. She is brutally honest with herself, revealing a loyal friend, a devoted lover, and a very affectionate mother. Fiercely protective of her own people, Evelyn's authenticity shines when faced with Monique. Her friendship with Harry Cameron is one of the most endearing aspects of the novel. In an always scheming, sabotaging world, Evelyn and Harry's friendship was a solace to the soul. If there are different kinds of soulmates, then Harry is Evelyn's truest soulmate.

What strikes me the most is Evelyn as a lover, especially the way she loved Celia. If there were a hall of fame in the history of romance, Evelyn and Celia would easily make the top ten. Her love for Celia St. James was nothing short of worship, revealing the most authentic and vulnerable side of her being. Amid the dirty games with the rest of the world, she kept her most authentic self for Celia.

“There’s a difference between sexuality and sex. I used sex to get what I wanted. Sex is just an act. Sexuality is a sincere expression of desire and pleasure. That I always kept for Celia.�

Ah, how profound... She loved Celia to the level of worship yet couldn't worship her openly, freely, with full abundance.

"I spent half my time loving her and the other half hiding how much I loved her.�

Celia St. James, a tempest of emotion and unrestrained devotion, America's Sweetheart, was a passionate lover, highly talented actor, and self-righteous. She loved Evelyn with everything she had, an unrelenting blaze that withstood the storms of secrecy and societal judgment. Their connection is more than a love affair; it's an opera, a tumultuous composition of desire, loyalty, and unwavering commitment. Yet, in moments of vulnerability, she cuts, hurts Evelyn with her sword-like tongue. Celia St. James was a heady concoction of passion, agony, unwavering loyalty, and love. It's Evelyn's words that justify what it was to be with Celia.

“That was how it was with Celia. When you denied her what she wanted, when you hurt her, she made sure you hurt, too.�

And the love story, where do I begin? Evelyn and Celia, one of the best romances I've read in recent years. They needed each other to go home. They were home to each other. The eternal lovers, yet not devoid of dark shadows. Although loyal, Celia inflicted more hurt on Evelyn than Evelyn did to her. She wasn't very forthcoming about Evelyn's sexuality and denied on many occasions that Evelyn is bisexual and hence equally interested in men. On the other hand, Evelyn blamed herself for the debacle in their relationship and handled Celia's wrath with more maturity.

Their love becomes a mirror reflecting the complexities of human connections, mirroring the sacrifices made for the sake of love and the scars borne from the battle against societal expectations. Celia and Evelyn's love is anything but a fairy tale; it's a nuanced, flawed, and profoundly human narrative that speaks to the enduring power of love in all its shades and hues.

My request to Taylor Jenkins Reid: if you're writing a love story of this magnificence, please ensure that the ladies get to go home and live happily as long as they live. Because it is so damn heart-wrenching to see Celia die and Evelyn shattered into pieces.

Monique, however serves as the conduit through which Evelyn's story is told, providing a perspective that allows readers to delve into the complexities of Evelyn's life. However, the focus on Evelyn's rich and multifaceted character can make Monique appear less developed in comparison.]]> 4.39 2017 The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo
author: Taylor Jenkins Reid
name: Jay
average rating: 4.39
book published: 2017
rating: 5
read at: 2023/12/01
date added: 2023/12/24
shelves: celebrity, favourites, historical, magnum-opus, bi-les
review:
⭐⭐⭐⭐�

There are good books, there are excellent books, then there are books like "The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo." I'm stunned, mesmerized, and in a trance with this book. This historical fiction delves into the life of a Hollywood legend and her tumultuous journey. It explores themes of dreams, love, ambition, and the price one must pay to achieve them.

“…do yourself a favor and learn to grab life by the balls, dear."

Evelyn Hugo is a complex character—scheming, overtly ambitious, sometimes cruel—and she owns every bit of it without batting an eyelid. She is brutally honest with herself, revealing a loyal friend, a devoted lover, and a very affectionate mother. Fiercely protective of her own people, Evelyn's authenticity shines when faced with Monique. Her friendship with Harry Cameron is one of the most endearing aspects of the novel. In an always scheming, sabotaging world, Evelyn and Harry's friendship was a solace to the soul. If there are different kinds of soulmates, then Harry is Evelyn's truest soulmate.

What strikes me the most is Evelyn as a lover, especially the way she loved Celia. If there were a hall of fame in the history of romance, Evelyn and Celia would easily make the top ten. Her love for Celia St. James was nothing short of worship, revealing the most authentic and vulnerable side of her being. Amid the dirty games with the rest of the world, she kept her most authentic self for Celia.

“There’s a difference between sexuality and sex. I used sex to get what I wanted. Sex is just an act. Sexuality is a sincere expression of desire and pleasure. That I always kept for Celia.�

Ah, how profound... She loved Celia to the level of worship yet couldn't worship her openly, freely, with full abundance.

"I spent half my time loving her and the other half hiding how much I loved her.�

Celia St. James, a tempest of emotion and unrestrained devotion, America's Sweetheart, was a passionate lover, highly talented actor, and self-righteous. She loved Evelyn with everything she had, an unrelenting blaze that withstood the storms of secrecy and societal judgment. Their connection is more than a love affair; it's an opera, a tumultuous composition of desire, loyalty, and unwavering commitment. Yet, in moments of vulnerability, she cuts, hurts Evelyn with her sword-like tongue. Celia St. James was a heady concoction of passion, agony, unwavering loyalty, and love. It's Evelyn's words that justify what it was to be with Celia.

“That was how it was with Celia. When you denied her what she wanted, when you hurt her, she made sure you hurt, too.�

And the love story, where do I begin? Evelyn and Celia, one of the best romances I've read in recent years. They needed each other to go home. They were home to each other. The eternal lovers, yet not devoid of dark shadows. Although loyal, Celia inflicted more hurt on Evelyn than Evelyn did to her. She wasn't very forthcoming about Evelyn's sexuality and denied on many occasions that Evelyn is bisexual and hence equally interested in men. On the other hand, Evelyn blamed herself for the debacle in their relationship and handled Celia's wrath with more maturity.

Their love becomes a mirror reflecting the complexities of human connections, mirroring the sacrifices made for the sake of love and the scars borne from the battle against societal expectations. Celia and Evelyn's love is anything but a fairy tale; it's a nuanced, flawed, and profoundly human narrative that speaks to the enduring power of love in all its shades and hues.

My request to Taylor Jenkins Reid: if you're writing a love story of this magnificence, please ensure that the ladies get to go home and live happily as long as they live. Because it is so damn heart-wrenching to see Celia die and Evelyn shattered into pieces.

Monique, however serves as the conduit through which Evelyn's story is told, providing a perspective that allows readers to delve into the complexities of Evelyn's life. However, the focus on Evelyn's rich and multifaceted character can make Monique appear less developed in comparison.
]]> <![CDATA[Touchwood - 30th Anniversary Edition]]> 639544
But Rayann encounters challenges to this new love—from friends who question its wisdom, from her mother who disapproves of this liaison with a woman her own contemporary, from Louisa's son who learns for the first time his mother's true sexuality.

And there are profound differences between Rayann and Louisa themselves, two women who come from dramatically different places in the spectrum of age and life experience. Their only common ground seems to be the searing attraction that they both try to deny...

Originally published by Naiad Press 1991. Second Bella Books edition 2012.]]> 278 Karin Kallmaker 1931513376 Jay 4 agegap, ff-romance
Touchwood by Karin Kallmaker serves as a bit of a history lesson for me, going beyond a mere lesbian age-gap romance. The author guides us through the intricacies of LGBTQ communities. I completely grasp the struggle that Louisa Thatcher is navigating, and it's genuinely eye-opening. Even in 2023, it remains a taboo in many parts of the world, and in some places, it's outright illegal.

Now, let's dive into the romance between Rayann and Louisa � it falls a bit flat for me. I'm puzzled. Rayann dumped Mellissa for cheating, but then she ends up sleeping with Louisa, even suspecting that Louisa and Dani might be a thing. How does Rayann justify that move? I understand that Mellissa has a supposed track record, at least according to Rayann, but let's remember, we're considering Rayann's assumption here, and she didn't have any proof to support her view.

And Ann, Rayann's mom, who was initially strongly opposed to her daughter's sexuality, suddenly becomes super tolerant? That doesn't sit well with me. It needed more space to illustrate Ann's change in perspective. It felt rushed, making it hard for me to digest.

On the flip side, the chemistry between Rayann and Soraida feels more authentic to me.

Now, let's not ignore the elephant in the room � that 27-year age gap between Rayann and Louisa. It's a major roadblock for me, and I just can't get past it.

I listen to the AB just because Angela Dawe did it. She is a magician, period.]]> 4.04 1990 Touchwood - 30th Anniversary Edition
author: Karin Kallmaker
name: Jay
average rating: 4.04
book published: 1990
rating: 4
read at: 2023/12/01
date added: 2023/12/20
shelves: agegap, ff-romance
review:
3.90/5

Touchwood by Karin Kallmaker serves as a bit of a history lesson for me, going beyond a mere lesbian age-gap romance. The author guides us through the intricacies of LGBTQ communities. I completely grasp the struggle that Louisa Thatcher is navigating, and it's genuinely eye-opening. Even in 2023, it remains a taboo in many parts of the world, and in some places, it's outright illegal.

Now, let's dive into the romance between Rayann and Louisa � it falls a bit flat for me. I'm puzzled. Rayann dumped Mellissa for cheating, but then she ends up sleeping with Louisa, even suspecting that Louisa and Dani might be a thing. How does Rayann justify that move? I understand that Mellissa has a supposed track record, at least according to Rayann, but let's remember, we're considering Rayann's assumption here, and she didn't have any proof to support her view.

And Ann, Rayann's mom, who was initially strongly opposed to her daughter's sexuality, suddenly becomes super tolerant? That doesn't sit well with me. It needed more space to illustrate Ann's change in perspective. It felt rushed, making it hard for me to digest.

On the flip side, the chemistry between Rayann and Soraida feels more authentic to me.

Now, let's not ignore the elephant in the room � that 27-year age gap between Rayann and Louisa. It's a major roadblock for me, and I just can't get past it.

I listen to the AB just because Angela Dawe did it. She is a magician, period.
]]> <![CDATA[Caught Sleeping (The Senator's Wife, #2)]]> 123265511 But it's more than either woman hoped for. More than they ever imagined.
Until a secret is revealed that threatens it all. Their relationship. Alex's career. Catharine's business. Even their lives. When it all comes crashing down, both women must ask themselves—how can love survive?]]> 300 Jen Lyon Jay 5 I used to think Lt. Col. Rebecca Keane from the ASK, TELL series was my ultimate crush, but after diving into 'The Senator's Wife' (TSW) and 'Caught Sleeping'(CS) by Jen Lyon, I've got to admit, Rebecca Keane now has some serious competition from Catherine Brooks and Amelia Walker.

Having devoured TSW and CS one after the other, I'm thrilled to say that while TSW is an excellently woven story, CS has managed to set the bar even higher. It's another brilliantly crafted sequel from Lyon, showcasing the same mastery with words and maintaining that slow yet riveting pace.

Readers should definitely approach these books in order; otherwise, they might miss out on the rich context, given the recurring characters. There are also some fresh faces introduced, and football (soccer) plays just as crucial a role as the main characters.

As I've already spilled my adoration for Catherine, in the second book, she has to share my undivided attention with Amelia Walker. Oh boy, what a well-crafted character. She's flawed, headstrong, charismatic, and she knows and owns every bit of it. Fully aware of herself yet vulnerable enough to reveal her true self, as evident in the backstory of a non-existent girlfriend back home in Australia. But even she lets her guard down for Alex. She falls hard for Alex, and I particularly enjoyed her conversation with Catherine. It felt like a fiercely engaging fencing match where both opponents were equally skilled until one of them decided to call it quits. I love Amelia Walker as much as I love Catherine.

If I may put in a request to Ms. Lyon, please spare Amelia and Nathalie from any more suffering. Both of them truly deserve a happy ending. Please make that happen.]]> 4.63 Caught Sleeping (The Senator's Wife, #2)
author: Jen Lyon
name: Jay
average rating: 4.63
book published:
rating: 5
read at: 2023/12/01
date added: 2023/12/15
shelves: agegap, icequeen, rich-poor, wlw, favourites
review:
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐/5
I used to think Lt. Col. Rebecca Keane from the ASK, TELL series was my ultimate crush, but after diving into 'The Senator's Wife' (TSW) and 'Caught Sleeping'(CS) by Jen Lyon, I've got to admit, Rebecca Keane now has some serious competition from Catherine Brooks and Amelia Walker.

Having devoured TSW and CS one after the other, I'm thrilled to say that while TSW is an excellently woven story, CS has managed to set the bar even higher. It's another brilliantly crafted sequel from Lyon, showcasing the same mastery with words and maintaining that slow yet riveting pace.

Readers should definitely approach these books in order; otherwise, they might miss out on the rich context, given the recurring characters. There are also some fresh faces introduced, and football (soccer) plays just as crucial a role as the main characters.

As I've already spilled my adoration for Catherine, in the second book, she has to share my undivided attention with Amelia Walker. Oh boy, what a well-crafted character. She's flawed, headstrong, charismatic, and she knows and owns every bit of it. Fully aware of herself yet vulnerable enough to reveal her true self, as evident in the backstory of a non-existent girlfriend back home in Australia. But even she lets her guard down for Alex. She falls hard for Alex, and I particularly enjoyed her conversation with Catherine. It felt like a fiercely engaging fencing match where both opponents were equally skilled until one of them decided to call it quits. I love Amelia Walker as much as I love Catherine.

If I may put in a request to Ms. Lyon, please spare Amelia and Nathalie from any more suffering. Both of them truly deserve a happy ending. Please make that happen.
]]> Devil's Advocate 62853727
Ashley Tanner’s only desire after losing her father to a prescription overdose as a teenager has been to support her working-class family. Now an ambitious lawyer, she’s on the verge of achieving the coveted partnership she’s worked for her entire career. But with her goal in sight, the return of a mysterious woman from Ash’s past puts the promotion at risk and forces her to confront the sacrifices she’s made to win at all costs.

Caitlyn Brewster is a self-made woman who was born with a silver spoon in her mouth. Guarding that secret has kept her from cultivating meaningful relationships. In fact, only one woman has managed to pierce Caitlyn’s defenses. A woman who runs more cold than hot. A woman best forgotten. A woman who, when a family emergency forces Caitlyn to move back home to Boston and accept a job at her uncle’s law firm, suddenly becomes her biggest rival.

Their volatile chemistry makes them a powerhouse legal duo, but the energy crackling between them might be more than they’re willing to admit. The closer they work together, the harder it becomes to control their desires, even as they’re faced with a case with stakes that could change everything for them both.

They’re both used to doing whatever it takes to win. What happens when only one of them can be victorious in the end?

If you enjoy a sensual ice queen age-gap office romance with a touch of humor, adorable family, and the cutest puppy on the planet, don’t miss Miranda MacLeod and TB Markinson’s latest collaboration!]]> 363 T.B. Markinson Jay 5
I listened, and Angela Dawe is just phenomenal. Her voice is just 'O' inducing.

In the tumultuous battlefield of emotions, Ashley Tanner and Caitlyn Brewster found themselves locked in a fierce clash. The story unfolded as a classic enemies-to-lovers narrative, interwoven with the rich-falls-for-poor trope. Both main characters were crafted with a delicate touch, and their animosity towards each other was palpable. I must say, Ash brought a whole new level of belligerence and caustic energy to their dynamic, while Caitlyn seemed smitten right from the start, compelled to play along with Ash's contentious game. The chemistry between these two protagonists was nothing short of electric, akin to two live wires getting tangled until the force of love neutralized the current. The kissing scenes, with a special nod to that second kiss, were well-executed, and the love-making scenes were sensually written.

What really stole the show for me were the dialogues exchanged between Ash and Caitlyn. The sarcasm and banter were simply wow-worthy, adding an extra layer of charm to their complex relationship. The supporting cast, including members of the Tanner and Brewster families, played crucial roles in the plot and were depicted with depth and nuance.

And let's talk about that epilogue � Ash's sweet self-talk was the perfect cherry on top. It provided a satisfying conclusion to the narrative, leaving a warm afterglow. All in all, "Devil's Advocate" offered a rollercoaster of emotions, with well-crafted characters, sizzling chemistry, and delightful banter that kept me thoroughly engaged.]]> 4.36 Devil's Advocate
author: T.B. Markinson
name: Jay
average rating: 4.36
book published:
rating: 5
read at: 2023/11/01
date added: 2023/12/15
shelves: rich-poor, agegap, contemporary, ff-romance, enemies-lovers, lesrom, favourites
review:
4.75 ⭐⭐⭐⭐

I listened, and Angela Dawe is just phenomenal. Her voice is just 'O' inducing.

In the tumultuous battlefield of emotions, Ashley Tanner and Caitlyn Brewster found themselves locked in a fierce clash. The story unfolded as a classic enemies-to-lovers narrative, interwoven with the rich-falls-for-poor trope. Both main characters were crafted with a delicate touch, and their animosity towards each other was palpable. I must say, Ash brought a whole new level of belligerence and caustic energy to their dynamic, while Caitlyn seemed smitten right from the start, compelled to play along with Ash's contentious game. The chemistry between these two protagonists was nothing short of electric, akin to two live wires getting tangled until the force of love neutralized the current. The kissing scenes, with a special nod to that second kiss, were well-executed, and the love-making scenes were sensually written.

What really stole the show for me were the dialogues exchanged between Ash and Caitlyn. The sarcasm and banter were simply wow-worthy, adding an extra layer of charm to their complex relationship. The supporting cast, including members of the Tanner and Brewster families, played crucial roles in the plot and were depicted with depth and nuance.

And let's talk about that epilogue � Ash's sweet self-talk was the perfect cherry on top. It provided a satisfying conclusion to the narrative, leaving a warm afterglow. All in all, "Devil's Advocate" offered a rollercoaster of emotions, with well-crafted characters, sizzling chemistry, and delightful banter that kept me thoroughly engaged.
]]> Lost in Paradise 41010851
Nicole Morella boards a private Mediterranean cruise with one to reclaim herself after her divorce. When she sits next to a beautiful blonde in the ship’s lounge, she’s knocked off balance by the immediate attraction between them, and it’s not just because Nicole hasn’t found her sea legs yet. Fiona stirs things in Nicole that haven’t been stirred in a long time, but a fiery kiss turns dangerous when the ship is hijacked. The women launch a daring escape, leaving them adrift in an empty lifeboat.

Fiona Boone has been adrift most of her life, but never in such a literal sense. She’s a survivor, though, so when they land on a deserted island, Fiona’s ready to do whatever it takes to stay alive until they’re rescued. In the meantime, she can’t get enough of the feisty woman she’s stranded with, despite her usual fiercely independent nature. Although they’re lost, Fiona finds something unexpected in the comfort of Nicole’s touch. But when an injury puts her life in jeopardy, they begin to worry help won’t arrive in time. If she survives their ordeal, Fiona might just face her biggest challenge falling in love.]]> 200 Rachel Lacey 1732151946 Jay 4
Rachel's writing usually hits the sweet spot for me, but this one? It's more like a dish that missed the mark on flavor.

The plot, well, it's just too conveniently laid out. Stranded on an island with two leading ladies, their sudden lust turning into love—it's a bit too much to swallow, like a recipe that promised a feast but ended up being just meh.]]> 4.20 2019 Lost in Paradise
author: Rachel Lacey
name: Jay
average rating: 4.20
book published: 2019
rating: 4
read at: 2023/12/01
date added: 2023/12/15
shelves: situationship-soulmate, ff-romance, contemporary
review:
3.5/5

Rachel's writing usually hits the sweet spot for me, but this one? It's more like a dish that missed the mark on flavor.

The plot, well, it's just too conveniently laid out. Stranded on an island with two leading ladies, their sudden lust turning into love—it's a bit too much to swallow, like a recipe that promised a feast but ended up being just meh.
]]> Breaking Character 41662515 Summer Hayes is devastated when her co-star shuns her for accidentally sparking rumors they’re lovers. Now the so-called British Bitch has the audacity to ask Summer to pretend to be her girlfriend to get her a role? Elizabeth doesn’t even like Summer! Oh, how she’d love to tell her no. And Summer definitely would if it wasn’t for the fact she’s maybe a tiny bit in love with the impossible woman.
A lesbian celebrity romance about gaining love, losing masks, and trying to stick to the script.

106,000 words]]> 334 Lee Winter 3963241136 Jay 5
I dove into the audiobook version the moment I discovered my favorite voice magician, Angela Dawe, was at the mic. Let's just say, her rendition of Elizabeth is ear-pleasingly exquisite.

Now, Summer Hayes is like a burst of sunshine in the story—a down-to-earth dreamer entangled with Hollywood insiders. She's crafting her own niche, and oh, did I mention her not-so-subtle crush on Elizabeth Thornton? It's more than admiration; it's the kind of thing love songs are written about.

Elizabeth, our marvelous actress and the infamous 'British Bitch,' is America's top-tier villain. But she's no ice queen; she's closeted, she's shy, moody (who can blame her with all that unjustified hate?), and not exactly a genius in dealing with Grace.

The tale spins around these two charming ladies. Summer, aptly named, is the much-needed warmth in Bess' life, cutting through the cold fog named Grace. It takes a Summer for Bess to realize she's been manipulated, played like a puppet by Grace. Love can make one blind, but it's no excuse for foolishness.

The book flaunts familiar tropes—age-gap, celebrity romance, fake romance—all woven together skillfully. Ms. Winter, this is my second book penned by her, has convinced me she has a soft spot for sassy banter, and she serves it with style. The dialogues are sharp, witty, and downright hilarious.

However, I can't help but scratch my head. Elizabeth, the seasoned actress with a top-notch team, can't shake off the 'British Bitch' persona? Come on, they could've turned that PR nightmare into a walk on the Hollywood Walk of Fame.

And Grace or we can call her Disgrace, supposedly a UK celebrity heavyweight, finds herself in Hollywood twiddling her thumbs, doing nothing significant except toying with Elizabeth? That part of the story feels a bit like it's hanging by a thread, waiting for some narrative stitches.]]> 4.34 2018 Breaking Character
author: Lee Winter
name: Jay
average rating: 4.34
book published: 2018
rating: 5
read at: 2023/12/01
date added: 2023/12/15
shelves: agegap, favourites, ff-romance, shamance, celebrity
review:
4.5/5

I dove into the audiobook version the moment I discovered my favorite voice magician, Angela Dawe, was at the mic. Let's just say, her rendition of Elizabeth is ear-pleasingly exquisite.

Now, Summer Hayes is like a burst of sunshine in the story—a down-to-earth dreamer entangled with Hollywood insiders. She's crafting her own niche, and oh, did I mention her not-so-subtle crush on Elizabeth Thornton? It's more than admiration; it's the kind of thing love songs are written about.

Elizabeth, our marvelous actress and the infamous 'British Bitch,' is America's top-tier villain. But she's no ice queen; she's closeted, she's shy, moody (who can blame her with all that unjustified hate?), and not exactly a genius in dealing with Grace.

The tale spins around these two charming ladies. Summer, aptly named, is the much-needed warmth in Bess' life, cutting through the cold fog named Grace. It takes a Summer for Bess to realize she's been manipulated, played like a puppet by Grace. Love can make one blind, but it's no excuse for foolishness.

The book flaunts familiar tropes—age-gap, celebrity romance, fake romance—all woven together skillfully. Ms. Winter, this is my second book penned by her, has convinced me she has a soft spot for sassy banter, and she serves it with style. The dialogues are sharp, witty, and downright hilarious.

However, I can't help but scratch my head. Elizabeth, the seasoned actress with a top-notch team, can't shake off the 'British Bitch' persona? Come on, they could've turned that PR nightmare into a walk on the Hollywood Walk of Fame.

And Grace or we can call her Disgrace, supposedly a UK celebrity heavyweight, finds herself in Hollywood twiddling her thumbs, doing nothing significant except toying with Elizabeth? That part of the story feels a bit like it's hanging by a thread, waiting for some narrative stitches.
]]> <![CDATA[Delilah Green Doesn't Care (Bright Falls, #1)]]> 54756850
Delilah Green swore she would never go back to Bright Falls—nothing is there for her but memories of a lonely childhood where she was little more than a burden to her cold and distant stepfamily. Her life is in New York, with her photography career finally gaining steam and her bed never empty. Sure, it’s a different woman every night, but that’s just fine with her.

When Delilah’s estranged stepsister, Astrid, pressures her into photographing her wedding with a guilt trip and a five-figure check, Delilah finds herself back in the godforsaken town that she used to call home. She plans to breeze in and out, but then she sees Claire Sutherland, one of Astrid’s stuck-up besties, and decides that maybe there’s some fun (and a little retribution) to be had in Bright Falls, after all.

Having raised her eleven-year-old daughter mostly on her own while dealing with her unreliable ex and running a bookstore, Claire Sutherland depends upon a life without surprises. And Delilah Green is an unwelcome surprise…at first. Though they’ve known each other for years, they don’t really know each other—so Claire is unsettled when Delilah figures out exactly what buttons to push. When they’re forced together during a gauntlet of wedding preparations—including a plot to save Astrid from her horrible fiancé—Claire isn’t sure she has the strength to resist Delilah’s charms. Even worse, she’s starting to think she doesn’t want to...]]> 375 Ashley Herring Blake 0593336402 Jay 4 ff-romance, contemporary
'Delilah Green Doesn't Care'—the title itself sparked my interest enough to dive in, or rather, hit play for the audiobook. I know it's already a hit in the queer romance scene with heaps of praise, but I couldn't resist sharing my two cents.

Delilah Green's journey from a tumultuous childhood, where she felt like the odd one out in her blended family, hooked me right in. Nobody made an effort to include her, let alone understand her, hence as an adult she became this cold-hearted individual. The fact that she found solace in books and later in photography added layers to her character that I couldn't help but love. On top of that DG a photographer? Sold. Her focus on queer female subjects became a key element in the story and kind of mirrored my own love for her character. Delilah's edgy and caustic personality felt refreshingly real compared to Claire Sutherland, who, let's be honest, seemed a bit too sweet for my taste. DG, with her 'I don't care' attitude, felt more relatable, more human.

Ashley Herring Blake really nailed it when it came to shaping the main characters, especially Delilah. Her cold demeanor and seemingly detached actions all clicked into place in the larger picture. However, I can't say I felt the same way about Claire Sutherland. She came across as overly sweet, and some of her choices left me puzzled. She called Josh irresponsible, yet had no qualms about getting intimate with him. That's a bit manipulative, isn't it? And let's delve into her attraction to Delilah—when did that exactly happen? It felt more like she just wanted to get laid and Delilah was a perfect fit, giving off vibes of a middle-aged woman on the prowl. It also seemed like she needed Ruby and Delilah's connection to stroke her ego, to justify her actions with Delilah. Who was she trying to fool?
Sure, Delilah might have started the whole thing to win a bet with Astrid, but she didn't need an excuse, and as things unfolded, her feelings for Claire developed organically. It felt justified, unlike Claire's seemingly sudden affection.

Now, what made this romance a worthwhile journey for me? Astrid and Delilah's dynamic stole the show. Their conversations added depth and heart-wrenching moments that I didn't expect. The most intense scenes weren't between the lovers, but between two sisters. And let's not forget Iris and Delilah's friendship—a delight to witness. Two sharp, edgy women forming a bond was a highlight. Maybe in another universe, they'd be more than friends, and I'd love to explore that storyline.

By the way, I read Iris Kelly's story first, and then this one, and it didn't bother me one bit.
]]> 4.06 2022 Delilah Green Doesn't Care (Bright Falls, #1)
author: Ashley Herring Blake
name: Jay
average rating: 4.06
book published: 2022
rating: 4
read at: 2023/11/30
date added: 2023/12/11
shelves: ff-romance, contemporary
review:
4.5 ⭐⭐⭐⭐�

'Delilah Green Doesn't Care'—the title itself sparked my interest enough to dive in, or rather, hit play for the audiobook. I know it's already a hit in the queer romance scene with heaps of praise, but I couldn't resist sharing my two cents.

Delilah Green's journey from a tumultuous childhood, where she felt like the odd one out in her blended family, hooked me right in. Nobody made an effort to include her, let alone understand her, hence as an adult she became this cold-hearted individual. The fact that she found solace in books and later in photography added layers to her character that I couldn't help but love. On top of that DG a photographer? Sold. Her focus on queer female subjects became a key element in the story and kind of mirrored my own love for her character. Delilah's edgy and caustic personality felt refreshingly real compared to Claire Sutherland, who, let's be honest, seemed a bit too sweet for my taste. DG, with her 'I don't care' attitude, felt more relatable, more human.

Ashley Herring Blake really nailed it when it came to shaping the main characters, especially Delilah. Her cold demeanor and seemingly detached actions all clicked into place in the larger picture. However, I can't say I felt the same way about Claire Sutherland. She came across as overly sweet, and some of her choices left me puzzled. She called Josh irresponsible, yet had no qualms about getting intimate with him. That's a bit manipulative, isn't it? And let's delve into her attraction to Delilah—when did that exactly happen? It felt more like she just wanted to get laid and Delilah was a perfect fit, giving off vibes of a middle-aged woman on the prowl. It also seemed like she needed Ruby and Delilah's connection to stroke her ego, to justify her actions with Delilah. Who was she trying to fool?
Sure, Delilah might have started the whole thing to win a bet with Astrid, but she didn't need an excuse, and as things unfolded, her feelings for Claire developed organically. It felt justified, unlike Claire's seemingly sudden affection.

Now, what made this romance a worthwhile journey for me? Astrid and Delilah's dynamic stole the show. Their conversations added depth and heart-wrenching moments that I didn't expect. The most intense scenes weren't between the lovers, but between two sisters. And let's not forget Iris and Delilah's friendship—a delight to witness. Two sharp, edgy women forming a bond was a highlight. Maybe in another universe, they'd be more than friends, and I'd love to explore that storyline.

By the way, I read Iris Kelly's story first, and then this one, and it didn't bother me one bit.

]]> <![CDATA[If the Shoe Fits (Ask, Tell, #3)]]> 46003599 When a chance meeting with Brooke Donnelly leaves Jana literally and figuratively off-balance, it doesn’t take long for her initial annoyance to turn into the first sparks of friendship. Jana always thought she was happy with her life, but the more time she spends with Brooke, the more she realizes something is missing. And maybe not just in the friendship department.
But how do you make that leap when you’ve never even considered kissing a woman, and have spent your whole life avoiding romantic commitments? Being brave, taking the first step, and admitting she wants to try to make things work with Brooke is only the beginning. Whether it’s the beginning of a disaster—or everything Jana hadn’t realized she wanted—depends on if Brooke can also be brave enough�

Genre: Romance
Editor: Cath Walker
Cover Designer: Kayla Mancuso
111,000 words]]> 298 E.J. Noyes 1642470562 Jay 5 lesrom, favourites
"If the Shoe Fits" by E.J. Noyes is the third book in her Ask Tell series. For those familiar with the 'Sab-verse', Jana Fleischer is a household name. She's known for her ever-changing dating habits and her knack for shifting the blame onto the men who she rejects in the blink of an eye. Beneath her tough exterior as a divorce lawyer, Jana is secretly a commitment-phobe searching for her Prince or Princess.

Brooke Donnelly, on the other hand, has been openly lesbian for a long time, yet she remains in the closet due to her fear of being completely disowned by her family.

E.J. Noyes once again expertly explores complex emotions. Jana, who is believed to be a straight woman by herself and the readers, has her convictions shaken to the core by Brooke Donnelly. Through Jana's journey, E.J. raises a compelling question: what label do we apply to someone who falls in love with a person, regardless of their gender? Jana repeatedly questions her own identity, wondering if she's bisexual, lesbian, or straight when she falls for a particular someone who happens to be a woman. Thanks to E.J. for posing this question, which resonates with many, just like Jana.

In this book, E.J. offers a more domestic portrayal of Sabine and Rebecca, and it's heartwarming to see them in this softer light.

In conclusion, I absolutely loved "If the Shoe Fits." It's a beautifully crafted conclusion to the Sabine verse.]]> 4.36 2019 If the Shoe Fits (Ask, Tell, #3)
author: E.J. Noyes
name: Jay
average rating: 4.36
book published: 2019
rating: 5
read at: 2023/09/22
date added: 2023/12/11
shelves: lesrom, favourites
review:
4.5/5

"If the Shoe Fits" by E.J. Noyes is the third book in her Ask Tell series. For those familiar with the 'Sab-verse', Jana Fleischer is a household name. She's known for her ever-changing dating habits and her knack for shifting the blame onto the men who she rejects in the blink of an eye. Beneath her tough exterior as a divorce lawyer, Jana is secretly a commitment-phobe searching for her Prince or Princess.

Brooke Donnelly, on the other hand, has been openly lesbian for a long time, yet she remains in the closet due to her fear of being completely disowned by her family.

E.J. Noyes once again expertly explores complex emotions. Jana, who is believed to be a straight woman by herself and the readers, has her convictions shaken to the core by Brooke Donnelly. Through Jana's journey, E.J. raises a compelling question: what label do we apply to someone who falls in love with a person, regardless of their gender? Jana repeatedly questions her own identity, wondering if she's bisexual, lesbian, or straight when she falls for a particular someone who happens to be a woman. Thanks to E.J. for posing this question, which resonates with many, just like Jana.

In this book, E.J. offers a more domestic portrayal of Sabine and Rebecca, and it's heartwarming to see them in this softer light.

In conclusion, I absolutely loved "If the Shoe Fits." It's a beautifully crafted conclusion to the Sabine verse.
]]> <![CDATA[If I Don't Ask (Ask, Tell, #4)]]> 60152518 As Sabine’s direct commanding officer, Rebecca knows she cannot act on her attraction but that knowledge does nothing to squash her desires. Unable to keep her thoughts about the alluring other woman under control, Rebecca resigns herself to years of censoring her thoughts and feelings until Sabine’s time in the Army is done. She’s spent decades suppressing parts of herself for her job, so what’s a few more years?
But as Rebecca and Sabine work closely together on Army bases in Afghanistan and the States, the undeniable sparks between them begin to ignite. And despite Rebecca’s constant self-censure, her denials and her knowledge of every obstacle standing between them, her resolve crumbles with each passing day. But when the consequences of your love run deeper than just breaking one of the unbreakable rules of the military, you risk losing more than just your heart.
If I Don’t Ask is the must-read story telling Rebecca’s side of the best-selling Ask, Tell.

Genre: Romance
Editor: Cath Walker
Cover Designer: Kayla Mancuso]]> 286 E.J. Noyes 164247391X Jay 5 lesrom, favourites Infinite Star/5 4.56 2022 If I Don't Ask (Ask, Tell, #4)
author: E.J. Noyes
name: Jay
average rating: 4.56
book published: 2022
rating: 5
read at: 2023/09/02
date added: 2023/12/11
shelves: lesrom, favourites
review:
Infinite Star/5
]]> Ask, Tell (Ask, Tell, #1) 31374674 Captain Sabine Fleischer is a skilled and dedicated U.S. Army surgeon deployed to a combat hospital in Afghanistan. She is also one of the thousands of troops who are forced to serve in silence because of the military’s anti-gay policy of “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell (DADT).�
Usually driven and focused, Sabine finds that battles raging both inside and outside the perimeter walls are making it more and more difficult for her to deal with her emotions. Dealing with loss and mortality, lack of privacy, sleep deprivation, loneliness and the isolation forced on her by “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell� are all taking their toll. Plus, her long-term relationship with a civilian back home is quickly becoming another casualty of war.
Colonel Rebecca Keane is an enigmatic career officer who runs the surgical unit like clockwork. Well liked and respected by those who work with and under her, she walks a fine line to preserve the military’s chain of command while connecting with those under her care and supervision. Sabine knows the Colonel is way off-limits, but can’t help fantasizing about her. Especially when she starts picking up unspoken cues—a stolen glance, a secret smile, an “accidental� brush of hands. Or is it just wishful thinking? After all, Rebecca’s wedding ring shines almost as brightly as her deep blue eyes�

Genre: Romance
Editor: Cath Walker
Cover Designer: Judith Fellows]]> 252 E.J. Noyes 1594935300 Jay 5 lesrom, favourites
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (5/5)

"Ask Tell" is a story that lingers, a narrative that has truly etched itself into my memory. The journey it takes might start slow, yet it's impossible not to be captivated by its narratives. With a first-person perspective, we dive into the thoughts of Capt. Sabine Fleischer, a woman who, for reasons of her own, keeps her true self hidden. Amidst the gradual build-up, we stand alongside her on the precipice of her tumultuous love life, particularly her relationship with Vic. One glance and we sense that if left unchecked, it could all crumble. Enter Lt. Col. Rebecca A Keane—an arrival that feels fated. Bec and Sabs were meant to collide.

Sabine's internal musings, those candid soliloquies, are a treat. They offer a hilarious glimpse into her world. The levity she brings, her humorous side, was a joy to experience. Not to mention her heartwarming chemistry with her sister, Mitch, and Ames—an undeniable connection that paints the narrative with richer strokes.

At its core, "Ask Tell" delves into the tension between ambition and personal life. Sabine and Rebecca, women driven by strong professional values, are caught in the crosscurrents of their dreams and a policy that stifles their authenticity. The level of research that underpins the story-line adds a layer of authenticity that's palpable.

In a landscape where love stories can be predictable, "Ask Tell" defies norms. It's a voyage of self-discovery, courage, and a fight for happiness against all odds. E.J. Noyes has spun a tale that resonates deeply, reminding us that love's victory over adversity isn't just a cliché—it's a testament to human resilience.

"Ask Tell" isn't just a book; it's an experience. It's an exploration of how the heart endures, adapts, and ultimately learns to love unapologetically. This story isn't just observed; it becomes a part of you, an imprint that remains long after the last page is turned.]]> 4.32 2017 Ask, Tell (Ask, Tell, #1)
author: E.J. Noyes
name: Jay
average rating: 4.32
book published: 2017
rating: 5
read at: 2023/08/29
date added: 2023/12/11
shelves: lesrom, favourites
review:
Love Prevails: A Tale That Stays

Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (5/5)

"Ask Tell" is a story that lingers, a narrative that has truly etched itself into my memory. The journey it takes might start slow, yet it's impossible not to be captivated by its narratives. With a first-person perspective, we dive into the thoughts of Capt. Sabine Fleischer, a woman who, for reasons of her own, keeps her true self hidden. Amidst the gradual build-up, we stand alongside her on the precipice of her tumultuous love life, particularly her relationship with Vic. One glance and we sense that if left unchecked, it could all crumble. Enter Lt. Col. Rebecca A Keane—an arrival that feels fated. Bec and Sabs were meant to collide.

Sabine's internal musings, those candid soliloquies, are a treat. They offer a hilarious glimpse into her world. The levity she brings, her humorous side, was a joy to experience. Not to mention her heartwarming chemistry with her sister, Mitch, and Ames—an undeniable connection that paints the narrative with richer strokes.

At its core, "Ask Tell" delves into the tension between ambition and personal life. Sabine and Rebecca, women driven by strong professional values, are caught in the crosscurrents of their dreams and a policy that stifles their authenticity. The level of research that underpins the story-line adds a layer of authenticity that's palpable.

In a landscape where love stories can be predictable, "Ask Tell" defies norms. It's a voyage of self-discovery, courage, and a fight for happiness against all odds. E.J. Noyes has spun a tale that resonates deeply, reminding us that love's victory over adversity isn't just a cliché—it's a testament to human resilience.

"Ask Tell" isn't just a book; it's an experience. It's an exploration of how the heart endures, adapts, and ultimately learns to love unapologetically. This story isn't just observed; it becomes a part of you, an imprint that remains long after the last page is turned.
]]> <![CDATA[The Senator's Wife (The Senator's Wife, #1)]]> 93026765 Two Women. Two Worlds. One Love Worth Risking it All.

When professional soccer player Alex Grey goes on a vacation to the local South Carolina islands, she isn't anticipating any life-changing events. Just a relaxing weekend to prepare for the upcoming season. But that quickly changes when she finds herself the lone witness to a sailing accident and makes the decision to risk her own life to save a drowning woman—unwittingly coming to the rescue of a U.S. senator's wife, Catharine Cleveland.

Despite the vast disparity between their worlds, the two women find themselves inexplicably drawn to one another after the near-catastrophic afternoon. Following a series of interactions from the soccer fields of Portland, to the Marina District of San Francisco Bay, and the cutthroat political circle of Washington, D.C., they find their friendship growing, transforming into an attraction neither woman can deny.

Nor an attraction either woman can comfortably embrace.

As the magnetism of their connection grows, both women are forced to decide if the pursuit of love is worth the cost while living under the scrutiny of the public eye.

The Senator's Wife is Book One in a three book series.]]> 479 Jen Lyon Jay 5 So, 'The Senator's Wife'—I must confess, I found myself wondering why I keep delaying the reading of it. Perhaps, an overdose of 'House of Cards' warped my expectations. Yet, here I am, after three consecutive days of reading and finishing it, still under the spell of this whirlwind of a romance.

This book is undeniably slow-paced. If you're someone who enjoys a leisurely romance, this might be your cup of tea. It's rife with tropes—rich-poor dynamics, age-gap (though I almost forgot about that after a few chapters), and the classic ice-queen scenario. Brace yourself for a high Angst quotient.

Enter Alex Grey, a professional footballer whose satisfaction in pleasing others results in nearly everyone she considers close treating her wrongly, like her uncle and aunt.

Then there's Catherine Brooks. I refuse to address her as 'Mrs. Cleveland'; the mere mention reminds me of a character I'd gladly consign to the Mariana's Trench, never to surface again. Catherine is the epitome of grace, a character portraying a warrior ready to fight anything but for herself.

Their fateful meeting leads to love, but as expected, life isn't a fairy tale for them.

This is the journey of both protagonists discovering themselves and confronting their deepest fears. They aren't devoid of negative traits, adding a layer of relatability. Alex seems to be everything Catherine was waiting for, although facing this truth sets them on a perilous path. Both characters appear naive at times, more agreeable for Alex, but occasionally a tad unbelievable for the strong-willed Catherine.

The steam quotient is low. The first kiss doesn't arrive until maybe the 42nd chapter, but surprisingly, one would hardly notice it. The subtlety with which Ms. Lyon crafts the tale, layer by layer, makes it a seamless experience. The rich language and effortlessly witty dialogues, especially from Catherine, leave me a little more than enamored. She's become my fictional-character-crush.

There are moments when you won't love her, and there are moments you'll love her intensely—much like Alex. Alex is humble, self-deprecating, and loyal, even to her less-than-desirable best friend (at least that's what Alex would like to call him), Caleb. Alex may not be sure about many things, but for one thing, she was very, very certain—she loved Catherine madly. She knows Catherine is way out of her league, yet she couldn't reason her heart to let her go. She kept trying hard to keep Catherine at bay, but the more she tried, the more she found herself pining for Catherine. Their chemistry is undeniable, and their commitment to each other, regardless of the obstacles, is swoon-worthy. As a reader, I felt every emotion under my skin, a testament to Ms. Lyon's brilliant storytelling.

The side characters are also very well written. Carlton Cleveland and Caleb Anderson's characters were unbearable due to the well-crafted characterization. Special mention to Nathalie Comtoise—wow, what a character she is. I would definitely like to see her go home; she deserved a heartwarming resolution.

My only submission is that the love scenes could have been a touch more elaborate to truly capture the passion between Catherine and Alex.]]> 4.41 2023 The Senator's Wife (The Senator's Wife, #1)
author: Jen Lyon
name: Jay
average rating: 4.41
book published: 2023
rating: 5
read at: 2023/12/10
date added: 2023/12/11
shelves: agegap, icequeen, rich-poor, wlw, favourites
review:
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐/5
So, 'The Senator's Wife'—I must confess, I found myself wondering why I keep delaying the reading of it. Perhaps, an overdose of 'House of Cards' warped my expectations. Yet, here I am, after three consecutive days of reading and finishing it, still under the spell of this whirlwind of a romance.

This book is undeniably slow-paced. If you're someone who enjoys a leisurely romance, this might be your cup of tea. It's rife with tropes—rich-poor dynamics, age-gap (though I almost forgot about that after a few chapters), and the classic ice-queen scenario. Brace yourself for a high Angst quotient.

Enter Alex Grey, a professional footballer whose satisfaction in pleasing others results in nearly everyone she considers close treating her wrongly, like her uncle and aunt.

Then there's Catherine Brooks. I refuse to address her as 'Mrs. Cleveland'; the mere mention reminds me of a character I'd gladly consign to the Mariana's Trench, never to surface again. Catherine is the epitome of grace, a character portraying a warrior ready to fight anything but for herself.

Their fateful meeting leads to love, but as expected, life isn't a fairy tale for them.

This is the journey of both protagonists discovering themselves and confronting their deepest fears. They aren't devoid of negative traits, adding a layer of relatability. Alex seems to be everything Catherine was waiting for, although facing this truth sets them on a perilous path. Both characters appear naive at times, more agreeable for Alex, but occasionally a tad unbelievable for the strong-willed Catherine.

The steam quotient is low. The first kiss doesn't arrive until maybe the 42nd chapter, but surprisingly, one would hardly notice it. The subtlety with which Ms. Lyon crafts the tale, layer by layer, makes it a seamless experience. The rich language and effortlessly witty dialogues, especially from Catherine, leave me a little more than enamored. She's become my fictional-character-crush.

There are moments when you won't love her, and there are moments you'll love her intensely—much like Alex. Alex is humble, self-deprecating, and loyal, even to her less-than-desirable best friend (at least that's what Alex would like to call him), Caleb. Alex may not be sure about many things, but for one thing, she was very, very certain—she loved Catherine madly. She knows Catherine is way out of her league, yet she couldn't reason her heart to let her go. She kept trying hard to keep Catherine at bay, but the more she tried, the more she found herself pining for Catherine. Their chemistry is undeniable, and their commitment to each other, regardless of the obstacles, is swoon-worthy. As a reader, I felt every emotion under my skin, a testament to Ms. Lyon's brilliant storytelling.

The side characters are also very well written. Carlton Cleveland and Caleb Anderson's characters were unbearable due to the well-crafted characterization. Special mention to Nathalie Comtoise—wow, what a character she is. I would definitely like to see her go home; she deserved a heartwarming resolution.

My only submission is that the love scenes could have been a touch more elaborate to truly capture the passion between Catherine and Alex.
]]> <![CDATA[And Playing the Role of Herself]]> 619962 336 K.E. Lane 1932300724 Jay 5 lesrom, favourites
OMG, this romance had me totally hooked! I was all ears for the audio book (old version) for three freaking days straight � couldn't get enough!

K.E. Lane knocked it out of the park with "And Playing the Role of Herself." Caidence and Robyn are like the ultimate power couple! The way they clicked had me swooning big time. Caidence's innocence and her no-nonsense attitude felt so darn real, and her insecurities about herself and Robyn added depth and made her super relatable.

Gotta give props to Liz Stokely � what a gem of a friend! She acted all high and mighty, but deep down, she's got a heart of gold.

And Robyn Ward, what a well-written character! Her character growth throughout the story was insane, and it made the romance even more addictive.

The writing style was off the charts � so vivid and the dialogue was lit! I was glued to every word, wishing it wouldn't end.

Love, self-discovery, and all those complicated relationship feels � this book had 'em all, and it's mixed to perfection.

If anyone into the 'Les-romance' and need a heartwarming story, "And Playing the Role of Herself" is a must-read. it's gonna stay with the reader for a long time.

In a nutshell, "And Playing the Role of Herself" is a romance adventure for the books, and it's etched in my mind for a long, long time. K.E. Lane did an A+ job! ]]> 4.21 2007 And Playing the Role of Herself
author: K.E. Lane
name: Jay
average rating: 4.21
book published: 2007
rating: 5
read at: 2023/08/01
date added: 2023/12/11
shelves: lesrom, favourites
review:
It is 1000/5 ⭐⭐⭐⭐�

OMG, this romance had me totally hooked! I was all ears for the audio book (old version) for three freaking days straight � couldn't get enough!

K.E. Lane knocked it out of the park with "And Playing the Role of Herself." Caidence and Robyn are like the ultimate power couple! The way they clicked had me swooning big time. Caidence's innocence and her no-nonsense attitude felt so darn real, and her insecurities about herself and Robyn added depth and made her super relatable.

Gotta give props to Liz Stokely � what a gem of a friend! She acted all high and mighty, but deep down, she's got a heart of gold.

And Robyn Ward, what a well-written character! Her character growth throughout the story was insane, and it made the romance even more addictive.

The writing style was off the charts � so vivid and the dialogue was lit! I was glued to every word, wishing it wouldn't end.

Love, self-discovery, and all those complicated relationship feels � this book had 'em all, and it's mixed to perfection.

If anyone into the 'Les-romance' and need a heartwarming story, "And Playing the Role of Herself" is a must-read. it's gonna stay with the reader for a long time.

In a nutshell, "And Playing the Role of Herself" is a romance adventure for the books, and it's etched in my mind for a long, long time. K.E. Lane did an A+ job!
]]> Set the Record Straight 66257593
The day Clara started her new (dream) job as an assistant to her photography idol, she was met with an assumption that caught her off guard and stunned her silent. suddenly, she has to bring a girlfriend to the gallery's opening in a few weeks- all because she choked up and failed to correct her boss that she is, in fact, straight.

Evan was recently dumped by her fellow teacher fiancée for a mutual co-worker and is still trying to figure out where it all went wrong. So when she gets the news the happy new couple will be hosting the staff's holiday party- she feels utterly horrified by her single status and looks for a quick solution.

Together, these two old friends make a plan to get through the gallery opening and holiday party by pretending to date one another. Easy... right?

That is until Clara starts developing real feelings for Evan, shocking herself. All the while Evan realizes that perhaps pretending to date your straight best friend, who you've had a crush on for half your life- isn't the best idea.


Content Warnings: Homophobia, familial estrangement, mentions of religious oppression, ADHD, Autism, and anxiety.]]> 150 Hannah Bonam-Young Jay 0 to-read 3.73 2022 Set the Record Straight
author: Hannah Bonam-Young
name: Jay
average rating: 3.73
book published: 2022
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2023/12/07
shelves: to-read
review:

]]>