en-US Wed, 16 Apr 2025 12:49:48 -0700 60 144 41 /images/layout/goodreads_logo_144.jpg 216871403 Ex-grifter Phoebe Graves�� new life threatens to come crashing down around her in the next unputdownable novel from the New York Times bestselling authors of the Addicted series.

As the daughter of a con artist, Phoebe Graves only knew a life of swindling the rich until her best friend and fellow grifter, Hailey Tinrock, proposed an idea to start a new, honest life in a wealthy college town of Connecticut. Once there, they decided to leave behind their deceitful tricks and be truthful for once. But you know what they say about best intentions. . . .

While Phoebe is fake-dating Jake Waterford, the third-born son to an uber-wealthy and influential family, she’s actually dating and falling deeper in love with Brayden “Rocky�� Tinrock—Hailey’s older brother. To make matters more complicated, Phoebe’s mother shows up out of the blue with conniving match-making designs of her own.

Her mother’s arrival threatens to unravel Phoebe’s plans. To keep her love, her friends, and her newfound happiness, Phoebe will have to return to her old games . . . and win.]]> Krista Ritchie Luce 0 currently-reading 4.22 2025
author: Krista Ritchie
name: Luce
average rating: 4.22
book published: 2025
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/04/16
shelves: currently-reading
review:

]]> 213650748 She’s the one that got away. He’s the one that never let her go.

From the bestselling author of Done and Dusted and Swift and Saddled, the next book in the Rebel Blue Ranch series, a small town romance in which past lovers get a second chance to rediscover what they lost.

Camille Ashwood had always loved a plan. Her latest was her best yet. She was going to get married so she could secure her daughter’s future, get her overbearing parents off her back, and finally start building her own life in small town Meadowlark, Wyoming. Easy, right?

But when her groom doesn’t show up to the wedding, Cam’s life is turned upside down—she doesn’t even have a place to live. That is, until she finds out the house she’s loved since high school is available to rent. There’s only one problem: the neighbor.

Dusty Tucker has spent nearly all of his adult life running. Running from what, though? More like who: Cam Ashwood. But ever since he returned home last year, the girl who was his first, well, everything has become a woman seemingly determined to keep him at arm’s length. And he was okay with that—at least, that’s what he kept telling himself. She was getting married, after all. But now she’s single and living next door. Dusty wants to show her that they can be friends, and that he can stay put.

Despite her best attempts to stay far away from Dusty Tucker, Cam realizes that being close to him is like slipping on her favorite jeans. Easy. Comfortable. That is until past wounds start to open and feelings—both old and new—wreak havoc. Nearly ten years after they first met, Dusty and Cam begin to wonder if their first love can also be their last. And this time, will it be forever?]]> Lyla Sage Luce 4
Full RTC. ]]> 4.19 2025
author: Lyla Sage
name: Luce
average rating: 4.19
book published: 2025
rating: 4
read at: 2025/04/15
date added: 2025/04/15
shelves: adult, contemporary-romance, friends-to-lovers, second-chance, small-town-romance
review:
Would have been 5 stars but Cam was unbearable as the FMC.

Full RTC.
]]> 196920718
Princess Aurora longs to escape the castle and the marriage that has been arranged for her.

But on the night before her wedding, at a dog fight where captured werewolves are made to fight for sport, she spares the life of a young wolf. It puts her on the radar of the powerful alpha who was going to kill him. And it changes everything.

That night, when the alpha escapes, he kidnaps her and takes her to the rugged lands north of the border �� where the once warring werewolf clans are beginning to unite. He thinks that she is the key to winning the war against the humans.

Only, as they spend time around one another, forbidden attraction starts to grow. And as Aurora learns that not all wolves are bad, the alpha discovers that she is in danger from both his enemies, and those he once considered friends.

With monsters on both sides, a bloodthirsty war between humans and wolves raging, and undeniable passion growing between them �� will their story end in love? Or tragedy?

And will Aurora ever get home?

Does she even want to?]]> 475 Lauren Palphreyman Luce 0 to-read 4.18 2023
author: Lauren Palphreyman
name: Luce
average rating: 4.18
book published: 2023
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/04/14
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> 215109788
Stripped of her Mind Magic and her freedom, Briony and the other survivors are quickly auctioned off to the highest bidders in an auction �� and as the heir-apparent’s sister, she fetches the highest price.

After a fierce bidding war, she’s sold to none other than Toven a high ranking Bomardsun �� and her long-time and ill-fated infatuation. Scion of a family known for their cruel control of Heart Magic, the Hearsts are ruthlessly ambitious, and Briony knows they will use her however they can to further their own interests.

Yet despite the horrors of her new world and the role she must learn to play within it, all is not lost. Help �� and hope �� may yet arise in the most unlikely of places…]]> 464 Julie Soto 0008711690 Luce 0 future-release 4.48 2025
author: Julie Soto
name: Luce
average rating: 4.48
book published: 2025
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/04/13
shelves: future-release
review:

]]> 213775782 From USA Today bestselling author Rina Kent comes an MM college romance.

I’m not attracted to men.
Or so I thought before I slammed into Nikolai Sokolov.
A mafia heir, a notorious bastard, and a violent monster.
An ill-fated meeting puts me in his path.
And just like that, he has his sights set on me.
A quiet artist, a golden boy, and his enemy’s twin brother.
He doesn’t seem to care that the odds are stacked against us.
In fact, he sets out to break my steel-like control and blur my limits.
I thought my biggest worry was being noticed by Nikolai.
I’m learning the hard way that being wanted by this beautiful nightmare is much worse.

This book can be read on its own, but for a better understanding of the world, you might want to start with God of Malice.]]> 624 Rina Kent 1464237409 Luce 5
The character development was phenomenal, even with the side characters! The Landon and Brandon scene at the hospital had me tearing up. This is the Landon I wanted to see in his own book. Two different people wrote these characters, and you can't convince me otherwise.

Really enjoyed this one, although probably could have been shorter!

Book Series Ranking:
1. God of Fury (Nikolai x Brandon)
2. God of Pain (Creighton x Annika)
3. God of Wrath (Jeremy x Cecily)
4. God of Malice (Killian x Glyndon)
5. God of Ruin (Landon x Mia)]]> 4.48 2023
author: Rina Kent
name: Luce
average rating: 4.48
book published: 2023
rating: 5
read at: 2025/04/13
date added: 2025/04/13
shelves: adult, dark-romance, enemies-to-lovers, lgbt, mafia-romance
review:
I'm not sure who wrote this book, but it definitely wasn't Rina Kent. It was actually good!

The character development was phenomenal, even with the side characters! The Landon and Brandon scene at the hospital had me tearing up. This is the Landon I wanted to see in his own book. Two different people wrote these characters, and you can't convince me otherwise.

Really enjoyed this one, although probably could have been shorter!

Book Series Ranking:
1. God of Fury (Nikolai x Brandon)
2. God of Pain (Creighton x Annika)
3. God of Wrath (Jeremy x Cecily)
4. God of Malice (Killian x Glyndon)
5. God of Ruin (Landon x Mia)
]]> 213775776 From USA Today bestselling author Rina Kent comes a scorching romance between a genius artist and a mafia princess

I’m out for revenge.
After careful planning, I gave the man who messed with my family a taste of his own medicine.
I thought it’d end there.
It didn’t.
Landon King is a genius artist, a posh rich boy, and my worst nightmare.
He’s decided that I’m the new addition to his chess game.
Too bad for him, I’m no pawn.
If he hits, I hit back, twice as hard and with the same hostility.
He says he’ll ruin me.
Little does he know that ruination goes both ways.

While this book can be enjoyed on its own, dive into the Legacy of Gods series to get acquainted with the characters.]]> 528 Rina Kent 1464237328 Luce 2
Also, I'm starting to believe the 'Rina Kent is a man' theory. Her absolutely hatred of women increases with each other book.

Book Series Ranking:
1. God of Pain (Creighton x Annika)
2. God of Wrath (Jeremy x Cecily)
3. God of Malice (Killian x Glyndon)
4. God of Ruin (Landon x Mia)]]> 4.06 2023
author: Rina Kent
name: Luce
average rating: 4.06
book published: 2023
rating: 2
read at: 2025/04/10
date added: 2025/04/13
shelves: adult, dark-romance, enemies-to-lovers, mafia-romance
review:
Didn't think I'd be rating Killian's, aka the rapists book higher than Landon's, but Jesus this one was borderline painful.

Also, I'm starting to believe the 'Rina Kent is a man' theory. Her absolutely hatred of women increases with each other book.

Book Series Ranking:
1. God of Pain (Creighton x Annika)
2. God of Wrath (Jeremy x Cecily)
3. God of Malice (Killian x Glyndon)
4. God of Ruin (Landon x Mia)
]]> 212438144 From USA Today bestselling author Rina Kent comes a scorching romance between a mafia princess and an underground fighter

I made a terrible mistake.
Being a mafia princess, I knew my fate was already decided.
But I went ahead and longed for the wrong one.
Creighton King is bad news with a gorgeous exterior.
He’s silent, brooding, and obviously emotionally unavailable.
So I thought it was over.
Until he awakens a beast inside me.
My name is Annika Volkov, and I’m Creighton's worst enemy.
He won’t stop until he breaks me.
Or I break him.

While this book can be enjoyed on its own, dive into the Legacy of Gods series to get acquainted with the characters.]]> 528 Rina Kent 1464237212 Luce 3
But the plot sucked. We didn't really get anything until we were practically done with the book.

Book Series Ranking
1. God of Pain (Creighton x Annika)
2. God of Malice (Killian x Glyndon)]]> 3.79 2022
author: Rina Kent
name: Luce
average rating: 3.79
book published: 2022
rating: 3
read at: 2025/03/12
date added: 2025/04/13
shelves: adult, dark-romance, grumpy-sunshine, mafia-romance
review:
Okay, so I enjoyed the couple in this one slightly more (less rapey, for sure).

But the plot sucked. We didn't really get anything until we were practically done with the book.

Book Series Ranking
1. God of Pain (Creighton x Annika)
2. God of Malice (Killian x Glyndon)
]]> 211636464 House of the Dragon meets From Blood and Ash in this epic, scorching dark romantasy.

A conqueror captivated��
A witch prophesied to save them all��
A world where dragons rule Rome.

From the moment Roman general and nephew to the emperor Julianus Dakkia laid eyes on Malina, he was enthralled by the Dacian dancer. Years later, the fierce beauty stands before him on a scarred battlefield, her life in danger. He instinctively shifts into his fierce dragon form to save her, an action that may mean his head on the imperial gate. But he and his dragon know one thing: she belongs to them.

Malina can’t believe that the centurion who had once bestowed a secret talisman on her is the Roman general of legendary brutality. His warrior prowess cannot be denied, yet they don’t reveal the secret he hides. All Malina knows is his protection and gentle touch. And she cannot deny how her soul has always seemed to answer his.

As they navigate a world where flying deathriders conquer and burn, their love will ignite a firestorm that can only end in heartbreak or death. Or both.]]> 352 Juliette Cross 1250339952 Luce 1 "What order was that?"
"The prisoners of war were to be left unspoiled."
"Why?"
"Because slaves are a profitable commodity. And damaged ones don't fetch much coin."

I hope this man chokes.

'Don't rape the women, buyers don't like damaged slaves.' DROP DEAD, SIR.

Oh, and this is the MMC of the book.]]> 3.89 2025
author: Juliette Cross
name: Luce
average rating: 3.89
book published: 2025
rating: 1
read at: 2025/04/11
date added: 2025/04/11
shelves: adult, romantasy, dnf, dark-romance
review:
"What order was that?"
"The prisoners of war were to be left unspoiled."
"Why?"
"Because slaves are a profitable commodity. And damaged ones don't fetch much coin."

I hope this man chokes.

'Don't rape the women, buyers don't like damaged slaves.' DROP DEAD, SIR.

Oh, and this is the MMC of the book.
]]> 222279220 “Good Spirits is an absolute knockout. A new Borison book feels like coming home in the best way. She's truly in a league of her own.�� �� Hannah Grace, New York Times bestselling author of Icebreaker

The USA Today bestselling author of Business Casual, B.K. Borison is back with a whimsical new holiday romance—this time with a magical twist—that will have everyone falling in love with the Ghost of Christmas Past.

He’s the Ghost of Christmas Past. She’s not exactly Scrooge.

Ghost of Christmas Past Nolan Callahan intends to spend this holiday haunting like every other—get in, get out, return to his otherwise aimless existence as a ghost awaiting the afterlife. But when he’s faced with Harriet York, the sweetest assignment he’s ever had, he suddenly finds himself wishing for a future.

Harriet York has no idea why she’s being haunted. She’s a good person—or, at least, she tries to be. A people pleaser to her core, she always does what’s expected of her. But as she and Nolan begin to examine her past, they discover there are threads that bind them together�� and realize there might be more to moving on than expected.

With the deadline of Christmas Eve fast approaching, will they find the key to their futures in each other’s pasts? Or will they stay firmly in the present, indulging in their unexpected, spirited connection?

Filled with magic, mayhem, and cozy holiday charm, this swoony romance is B.K. Borison’s best yet!]]> 384 B.K. Borison 0063430401 Luce 0 future-release 4.59 2025
author: B.K. Borison
name: Luce
average rating: 4.59
book published: 2025
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/04/09
shelves: future-release
review:

]]> 219056788
Malakai
I’ve spent years hiding my depraved deviances behind my roles as pastor and headmaster of Saint Helena Academy.
When Julian—my former best friend—returns to my life, the tension between us is impossible to ignore.
He’s married now, and I try to keep my distance.
Until he confesses his secret: he wants me to sleep with his wife, Sophie, while he watches.
It’s their arrangement, their game—and now, I’m the one they’ve chosen.
I should walk away, but I can’t—I’m just as drawn to her as I am to him.
What starts as curiosity spirals into something far deeper–something that could destroy everything I’ve worked to protect.

Julian
He kissed me once. Then he disappeared.
Seventeen years later, Malakai is back, and my unresolved feelings soon evolve into a new obsession: watching him with Sophie.
It consumes me.
Sophie is a hotwife, and watching her with other men has always been my kink.
But with Kai, it’s different—he prefers a darker, more intense experience.
He’s also used to being in control, but now it’s my turn.
But only if my marriage can survive opening up to him–and if I can maintain control without falling for him all over again.

Holy Hearts is a full-length MMF billionaire romance with BDSM themes. It is the fifth and final book in the Ravaged Castle series. All books can be read as standalones.

Warning: This book contains explicit sexual situations and strong language. There is no cheating, and there is a HEA between all three characters.]]> 511 Amanda Richardson Luce 4
I was a little nervous going into this book. I was worried that the 'throuple' energy was going to feel like a married couple and their fuck buddy. And for the most part...

This book did feel like that.

But it's a key part of the storyline that I think Amanda Richardson handles well-ish.

I loved the dynamic between Kai, Julian & Sophie once they fully settled into their relationship, which unfortunately happens at the 85% mark. I'd loved to have spent more time with them as a throuple, because unfortunately the majority of the book feels like Julian x Sophie using Kai. And because of how they treated Kai, I struggled to like Sophie and Julian for the most part. Particularly Julian, which is not what I was expecting.

I loved seeing all the family together, although I do wish we'd had some more 'brotherly' moments. I wanted more moments with Kai and his brothers as he's always felt like the outsider in a way, but his bond with Orion was cute.

Overall, not the strongest book in the series but it does feature one of my least favourite tropes/the type of angst I don't enjoy personally. However, people who like books featuring throuples with some angst and drama, this is definitely the book for you!

I love this entire series for introducing me to kinks I was not familiar with, and am now intrigued to delve deeper into.

Tropes Included:
- MMF
- Second Chance
- ADHD & Endometriosis Rep
- Why Choose
- FMC is a Hotwife
- Bi-awakening

Series Ranking:
1. Ward Willing (Liam x Zoe)
2. Marry Lies (Miles x Stella)
3. Masked Sins (Orion x Layla)
4. Holy Hearts (Kai x Julien x Sophie)
5. Prey Tell (Chase x Juliet).

I received an advanced copy for free through the author and I am leaving this review voluntarily. ]]> 4.21
author: Amanda Richardson
name: Luce
average rating: 4.21
book published:
rating: 4
read at: 2025/02/18
date added: 2025/04/08
shelves: adult, contemporary-romance, friends-to-lovers, lgbt, arc
review:
3.5

I was a little nervous going into this book. I was worried that the 'throuple' energy was going to feel like a married couple and their fuck buddy. And for the most part...

This book did feel like that.

But it's a key part of the storyline that I think Amanda Richardson handles well-ish.

I loved the dynamic between Kai, Julian & Sophie once they fully settled into their relationship, which unfortunately happens at the 85% mark. I'd loved to have spent more time with them as a throuple, because unfortunately the majority of the book feels like Julian x Sophie using Kai. And because of how they treated Kai, I struggled to like Sophie and Julian for the most part. Particularly Julian, which is not what I was expecting.

I loved seeing all the family together, although I do wish we'd had some more 'brotherly' moments. I wanted more moments with Kai and his brothers as he's always felt like the outsider in a way, but his bond with Orion was cute.

Overall, not the strongest book in the series but it does feature one of my least favourite tropes/the type of angst I don't enjoy personally. However, people who like books featuring throuples with some angst and drama, this is definitely the book for you!

I love this entire series for introducing me to kinks I was not familiar with, and am now intrigued to delve deeper into.

Tropes Included:
- MMF
- Second Chance
- ADHD & Endometriosis Rep
- Why Choose
- FMC is a Hotwife
- Bi-awakening

Series Ranking:
1. Ward Willing (Liam x Zoe)
2. Marry Lies (Miles x Stella)
3. Masked Sins (Orion x Layla)
4. Holy Hearts (Kai x Julien x Sophie)
5. Prey Tell (Chase x Juliet).

I received an advanced copy for free through the author and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
]]> 212438137 From USA Today bestselling author Rina Kent comes a new STANDALONE enemies-to-lovers college romance.

I’m trapped by the devil.
What started as an innocent mistake turned into actual hell.
In my defense, I didn’t mean to get involved with a mafia prince.
But he barged through my defenses anyway.
He stalked me from the shadows and stole me from the life I know.
Jeremy Volkov might appear charming, but a true predator lurks inside.
He’s out to possess, own, and keep me.
But I have no plans to stick around in his blood-soaked world.
Or so I think.

This book is a dark unconventional romance and contains themes that aren't to everyone's liking. Please check the author's note for content warnings before reading.]]> 592 Rina Kent 1464237263 Luce 3
Honestly, I'm continuing this series for research purposes only.

Book Series Ranking:
1. God of Pain (Creighton x Annika)
2. God of Wrath (Jeremy x Cecily)
3. God of Malice (Killian x Glyndon)]]> 4.14 2022
author: Rina Kent
name: Luce
average rating: 4.14
book published: 2022
rating: 3
read at: 2025/04/08
date added: 2025/04/08
shelves: adult, dark-romance, mafia-romance
review:
I enjoyed Jeremy and Cecily somewhat but unfortunately the plot of this one is non-existent. The first 50% was borderline painful.

Honestly, I'm continuing this series for research purposes only.

Book Series Ranking:
1. God of Pain (Creighton x Annika)
2. God of Wrath (Jeremy x Cecily)
3. God of Malice (Killian x Glyndon)
]]> 63031640
But hockey heartthrob Jasper Gervais isn’t looking at me like a friend anymore. And he isn’t touching me like one either.

To his fans, he’s the handsome, talented athlete on TV. But to me he’s still the lost boy with sad eyes and a heart of gold.

The man I’ve loved in secret for years.

So when my life falls apart on my wedding day, it only makes sense that he’s the one to swoop in and save me. And when his world comes crashing down around him, I’m there to return the favor.

But the more time we spend alone, the more Jasper doesn’t feel like a friend at all. He feels like everything I’ve ever wanted and thought I could never have.

Our feelings aren’t straight forward though. They twist and turn around the pain of his past and the reality of my present.

Jasper Gervais acts like he wants me.

But after years of turning me away, he’s going to need to prove it.]]> 504 Elsie Silver Luce 3
It pains me to give Elsie Silver anything less than 5 stars but friends-to-lovers is one of my least favourite tropes, particularly when unrequited love is involved.

Elsie's writing style is engaging and is probably why I continued reading this book. However, I found the story and the main characters boring. I had a lot of hope for our boy Jasper but honestly, I'm extremely disappointed with his story.

The smut... amazing as always *chef's kiss*. But overall, this book has left me with a deflated feeling and I can't see me re-reading their story. I imagine if you love the friends-to-lover trope this will be an enjoyable read for you.

Fingers crossed for Beau's story. Daddy Cade, your spot at number one is safe. ]]> 4.08 2023
author: Elsie Silver
name: Luce
average rating: 4.08
book published: 2023
rating: 3
read at: 2023/02/12
date added: 2025/04/07
shelves: adult, contemporary-romance, friends-to-lovers, grumpy-sunshine, small-town-romance, sports-romance
review:
3.5

It pains me to give Elsie Silver anything less than 5 stars but friends-to-lovers is one of my least favourite tropes, particularly when unrequited love is involved.

Elsie's writing style is engaging and is probably why I continued reading this book. However, I found the story and the main characters boring. I had a lot of hope for our boy Jasper but honestly, I'm extremely disappointed with his story.

The smut... amazing as always *chef's kiss*. But overall, this book has left me with a deflated feeling and I can't see me re-reading their story. I imagine if you love the friends-to-lover trope this will be an enjoyable read for you.

Fingers crossed for Beau's story. Daddy Cade, your spot at number one is safe.
]]> 214539406 Wren Embervale, alchemist-turned-assassin, finds solace in only one thing: seeking vengeance for the death of her friends. The wars of the past may be over, but her thirst for revenge is far from quenched.

For years, she has been content with her poisons and potions for company, but when an unknown form of alchemy is used to attack a king of the midrealms, Wren’s time in the shadows comes to an end.

She’s offered a place at the ancient alchemy academy of Drevenor to find a cure to the dark magic threatening the kingdoms. To win her spot, she must conquer the Gauntlet, a grueling series of deadly trials that could cost her sanity, or her life.

More is at play than sabotage from fellow competitors. Magic wielders are being targeted and Wren becomes tangled in a dangerous web of deception and bloodshed that puts the entire realm at risk.

But the biggest threat of all might come from the man assigned to protect her—Torj Elderbrock, the silver-haired war hero who has hated her since she assassinated his last charge.

Their shared history ignites a simmering tension that threatens to consume them both.

Peace is fragile, trust is scarce and enemies lurk around every corner�� Will love heal all wounds—or will it be the most lethal poison of all?

Iron & Embers is the breathtaking first installment in the epic fantasy romance series, The Ashes of Thezmarr. With its lush world-building, sizzling chemistry, and heart-pounding action it’s perfect for fans of Fourth Wing, From Blood & Ash, and The Bridge Kingdom.]]> 586 Helen Scheuerer 1922903213 Luce 4 adult, romantasy
However, once Wren entered the academy I was hooked. I wasn't completely sold on her romance with Torj until a lot later in the book. My favourite aspect were the 'trials' in preparation for the gauntlet.

Will definitely be reading the sequel and may possibly go and read the other series that is connected when I'm in a romantasy mood again!]]> 4.24 2025
author: Helen Scheuerer
name: Luce
average rating: 4.24
book published: 2025
rating: 4
read at: 2025/04/04
date added: 2025/04/06
shelves: adult, romantasy
review:
I will say, I considered DNFing this book for the first 100 pages. It has an incredibly slow start and I was struggling to connect with the characters.

However, once Wren entered the academy I was hooked. I wasn't completely sold on her romance with Torj until a lot later in the book. My favourite aspect were the 'trials' in preparation for the gauntlet.

Will definitely be reading the sequel and may possibly go and read the other series that is connected when I'm in a romantasy mood again!
]]> 216599226 the desire by followers of a fandom for two people (either in real-life or fiction) to be in a romantic relationship>

When Cerys�� secret crush Jake moves to a new college, she realises she’s running out of time to take their relationship from platonic to romantic. She’ll do anything to get out of Jake’s friendzone, even if that means finally diving into the huge fantasy fandom he loves so much. Though she absolutely can’t see the appeal in Of Wrath and Rune, if Jake loves it, then Cerys will too.

But when Jake introduces Cerys to his shiny new friend Max, who goes to all the fandom conventions (and loves a costume or three), Cerys realises she’ll need to do a lot more to grab Jake’s attention than just read a few fanfics.

Can Cerys convince Jake they should become the new couple to ship? Or will he see straight through her cosplay?

A fandom-centric romcom full of TikTok’s favourite tropes such as #mistakenidentity, #enemiestolovers, and #oppositesattract. All about self-confidence and the power of finding your tribe, DO YOU SHIP IT is a beautifully lighthearted YA from bestselling author Beth Reekles, perfect for fans of Holly Bourne, Jenny Han, and Lynn Painter.]]> 400 Beth Reekles 0241712882 Luce 3
A very cute YA romance that looks at self-confidence and being true to yourself.

The relationship development was a little rushed in my opinion as we had maybe two scenes of Cerys and Max interacting 1-1. The rest of the time she viewed him as a third wheel she wanted to drop.

Was a four star read until the very anti-climatic ending. Would loved to have seen more interaction and development between Max and Cerys, instead we get about 10 pages of them being romantically involved. ]]> 4.00
author: Beth Reekles
name: Luce
average rating: 4.00
book published:
rating: 3
read at: 2025/04/05
date added: 2025/04/06
shelves: young-adult, friends-to-lovers, contemporary-romance
review:
3.5

A very cute YA romance that looks at self-confidence and being true to yourself.

The relationship development was a little rushed in my opinion as we had maybe two scenes of Cerys and Max interacting 1-1. The rest of the time she viewed him as a third wheel she wanted to drop.

Was a four star read until the very anti-climatic ending. Would loved to have seen more interaction and development between Max and Cerys, instead we get about 10 pages of them being romantically involved.
]]> 220617923
Wren Embervale and Torj Elderbrock share a dark and bloody history. With Thezmarr on the brink of another war, and overwhelmed by the force of their feelings for one another, Torj discovers there is far more to their bond than mere passion. The legendary Warsword is determined to protect Wren at all costs, even if it means lying to her . . . Even if it means losing her forever.

Meanwhile, Wren is struggling to find her place in the world �� both as an advanced student of alchemy at the ancient academy of Drevenor, and as one of the heirs to a lost kingdom. With the midrealms once again facing destruction, Wren must decide: loyalty or liberation? Legacy or love?

As new political players emerge, Wren discovers that her gift for alchemy is more powerful than she ever imagined �� and that it could tear the kingdoms apart.

Will she and Torj find their way back to each other, or will the ancient magic that binds them become their undoing?]]> 448 Helen Scheuerer 103506734X Luce 0 future-release 4.74 2025
author: Helen Scheuerer
name: Luce
average rating: 4.74
book published: 2025
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/04/04
shelves: future-release
review:

]]> 57663628 A reunited-friends-to-lovers redemption story, featuring a fallen hero in need of forgiveness, a superstar heroine who knows how lonely it is at the top, and a secret love that flourishes despite the odds stacked against it.

They all thought they knew him,
but only she knew his heart.

Seth Brothers had it all: the hottest rock album in the world, more money than he’d ever dreamed of, and Dirty—the band he loved like family.
Not bad for a former orphan and street kid.
But as Dirty hit the big time, Seth’s demons got the better of him and he hit bottom.
He lost it all—over an addiction, a whole lot of mistakes, and an ugly misconception.

Now all Seth’s got is a bad reputation, the guitar on his back, and a heart full of regrets.
And one last chance to get it all back�� if he can crash an audition to join his former band—and slay it.

He slays it.
But he doesn’t get what he wants.
Instead, he gets the one thing he never expected: someone to believe in him.

As Dirty’s bassist, Elle Delacroix has it all—except the one thing that truly matters.
Love.
The only thing Seth has to give.

But if Seth really wants his life back, he’ll have to give it everything he’s got and then some.
Including the hardest truth.

There are two sides to every rock ’n�� roll story; it’s time for Seth to tell his.]]> Jaine Diamond Luce 1
Yeah, nah. Still a child.]]> 4.14 2018
author: Jaine Diamond
name: Luce
average rating: 4.14
book published: 2018
rating: 1
read at: 2025/03/31
date added: 2025/04/03
shelves: adult, contemporary-romance, friends-to-lovers, musician
review:
If you're looking for a book that blames a 16 year old teenage girl for the sexual abuse that she experienced in order to redeem the MMC, who was 19 yo man abusing drugs and a 16 yo... well this is the book for you. And the FMC justifying it because of her own experiences.

Yeah, nah. Still a child.
]]> 57663606 An angsty, childhood-friends-to-lovers romance, featuring a broody, overprotective hero, a heroine tortured by the mistakes of her past, and a long overdue second chance.

She was all he ever wanted, even when she broke his heart��

Growly and gorgeous band manager Brody Mason has been aching for his friend’s little sister, Jessa Mayes, since they were just kids.
By the time they’d grown up, she’d broken his heart.
Then she ripped it right the f*ck out.
As it turns out, time doesn’t heal that kind of wound.
It leaves a gaping, festering hole.

Hence Brody’s sunshiny nature.

Meanwhile, Jessa appears to be living the dream—blessed with beauty, talent, and a glamorous life.
But she also has a secret.
Six years ago, she��ran away from her dream career as a songwriter with her brother’s band. She also ran away from Brody, the only man she’s ever loved.
And she never told anyone why.

Now Jessa’s��doing the one thing she swore she’d never do.
She’s coming home.

As a bridesmaid in her brother’s rock star wedding, she’ll come face-to-face with the mistakes of her past.
Including the sexy, surly, heartbroken one.
It definitely won’t be easy.

Love this intense never is.]]> Jaine Diamond Luce 1
- 15 year old Brody walks into a 10 year old girls room and sees her naked... but it's okay he didn't do it on purpose.
- 20 year old Brody kisses 15 year old Jessa because he can't bear the thought of anyone else being her first kiss...
- 21/22 year old Brody and 16/17 year old Jessa are regularly sharing a bed, making out whilst Brody tells her he loves her, will wait for her until she's ready...

At the same, 16 year old Jessa is being abused by a member of her brother's band who is a couple of years older than her, and is exchanging sex for drugs AND he's the MMC of book 3... someone save me now.

Is the age of consent not a thing we consider in books anymore???

This is marketed as a contemporary romance, so can authors stop normalising this type of relationship. That man should not have been thinking of her in any sexual way before the age of 18. Rolling around in bed together? Yeah, I'm calling the police. I don't care that she has always 'looked' older. Her behaviour in the book definitely did not showcase an adult and even at 24, this girlie needed A LOT of therapy.

Age-gap romances where the FMC is emotionally immature... yeah, it always feel gross and creepy. Sorry, not sorry.]]> 3.75 2017
author: Jaine Diamond
name: Luce
average rating: 3.75
book published: 2017
rating: 1
read at: 2025/03/30
date added: 2025/03/31
shelves: adult, age-gap, brothers-best-friend, contemporary-romance, friends-to-lovers, musician
review:
I think I just read a book where the MMC groomed the FMC... but it's okay because someone in the band was much worse than he was.

- 15 year old Brody walks into a 10 year old girls room and sees her naked... but it's okay he didn't do it on purpose.
- 20 year old Brody kisses 15 year old Jessa because he can't bear the thought of anyone else being her first kiss...
- 21/22 year old Brody and 16/17 year old Jessa are regularly sharing a bed, making out whilst Brody tells her he loves her, will wait for her until she's ready...

At the same, 16 year old Jessa is being abused by a member of her brother's band who is a couple of years older than her, and is exchanging sex for drugs AND he's the MMC of book 3... someone save me now.

Is the age of consent not a thing we consider in books anymore???

This is marketed as a contemporary romance, so can authors stop normalising this type of relationship. That man should not have been thinking of her in any sexual way before the age of 18. Rolling around in bed together? Yeah, I'm calling the police. I don't care that she has always 'looked' older. Her behaviour in the book definitely did not showcase an adult and even at 24, this girlie needed A LOT of therapy.

Age-gap romances where the FMC is emotionally immature... yeah, it always feel gross and creepy. Sorry, not sorry.
]]> 57663565 A broiling-over-with-desire, fake-to-real romance, featuring a charming, famous heartbreaker, a sweet “regular�� girl, a salacious job offer, a ridiculous bet, and way too many shared hotel beds.

A gorgeous rock star. An indecent proposal. How can a girl resist?

Struggling barista Katie Bloom doesn’t even know who Jesse Mayes is until she inadvertently wins the coveted role of sex kitten in his hot new music video.
But by the time she’s in bed with him, she knows his reputation.

Love maker.
Heartbreaker.
��
Making out with a stranger in front of a camera crew isn’t how Katie imagined herself getting over a broken heart, but when Jesse touches her, sparks fly.
The sex is fake but the chemistry is real, and before long, the steamy video is blazing up the charts.

Then Jesse makes Katie a tantalizing offer: act as his girlfriend for six weeks while he promotes his new album.
The only catch? Their sizzling make-out sessions will be for the cameras only.
Which suits Katie just fine, since she’s not about to trust her heart to rock’s most legendary lover.
Her body, though? Maybe.

As it turns out, pretending to fall in love is incredibly sexy��

And falling in love for real, with a man she promised not to fall for?
Irresistible.]]> 390 Jaine Diamond Luce 4
I enjoyed this a lot more than I was expecting!

I lost hope early on when I was getting the "she's just not like other girls" vibe from the FMC. Plus, the purple bra under a white vest top in the rain that the FMC just happened to get caught in before practically falling into the MMC's lap was just a little too cringe for me.

But alas, this was actually a lot of fun. I love a good rockstar romance and it's been a while since I've read one! While there isn't anything special about this one, and I probably won't end up remembering it in a few months (minutes), this was a fun palate cleanser!

I'm definitely interested in the MMC's sister's story, and his bodyguard! The side characters were more interesting than the main characters to be honest so I'll definitely be continuing the series!
]]> 3.94 2016
author: Jaine Diamond
name: Luce
average rating: 3.94
book published: 2016
rating: 4
read at: 2025/03/28
date added: 2025/03/31
shelves: adult, contemporary-romance, musician
review:
3.5

I enjoyed this a lot more than I was expecting!

I lost hope early on when I was getting the "she's just not like other girls" vibe from the FMC. Plus, the purple bra under a white vest top in the rain that the FMC just happened to get caught in before practically falling into the MMC's lap was just a little too cringe for me.

But alas, this was actually a lot of fun. I love a good rockstar romance and it's been a while since I've read one! While there isn't anything special about this one, and I probably won't end up remembering it in a few months (minutes), this was a fun palate cleanser!

I'm definitely interested in the MMC's sister's story, and his bodyguard! The side characters were more interesting than the main characters to be honest so I'll definitely be continuing the series!

]]> 217387802 Either you're in or you're out.

Welcome to the Thrashers, the elite friend group at New Helvetia High.

They’re everything everyone wants to be.

Jodi Dillon was never meant to be one of them. Julian, Lucy, Paige, and the infamous Zack Thrasher are rich, sophisticated, and love attention. Jodi feels out of place, but Zack’s her childhood best friend, so she’s in.

Then Emily Mills, who desperately wanted to be a Thrasher, dies—and the whispers about the Thrashers begin. As Emily’s journal surfaces, detectives close in, and Jodi faces an impossible choice: betray her friends or protect herself.

But as eerie messages and strange occurrences escalate, it becomes clear—Emily isn’t done with them yet.

A twisty thrill-ride of unforgettable drama and suspense that "encapsulates the vulnerability of adolescents playing adult games" (Ali Hazelwood) from USA Today bestselling author Julie Soto, The Thrashers will keep you up at night desperate to read just one more page.

"A tour-de-force YA debut from Julie Soto." - Alexa Donne

"For fans of Karen McManus and Kara Thomas, The Thrashers had me holding my breath, sweaty-palming my e-reader, and dying to flip each page to see what would happen next." - Susan Lee

"Expertly plotted and full of flawed, morally gray characters you still can't help rooting for, The Thrashers is one of the best books I've read this year." - Evelyn Skye]]> 352 Julie Soto 125037717X Luce 5
Julie Soto is such an auto-buy author for me, and this is definitely one I will need to add to my collection.

Jodi Dillon is part of the 'Thrashes', an elite friend group named after her childhood best friend. When Emily (who was desperate to join the group) commits suicide, suddenly all eyes are on the Thrashers. And after Emily's diary is discovered and it points to Jodi's friends, she has to make the decision to protect herself or betray her friends .

I won't say too much because the twist and turns are what make this book so incredible. This book covers some difficult topics including suicide, domestic violence, statutory rape and bullying but Julie Soto handles them with such ease and sensitivity, without making it feel unrealistic.

I do have a slight pet peeve around an unreliable narrator but I think in this instance, it worked.

If you're put off because it's YA, I beg you to give it a chance!

I received an advanced copy for free through NetGalley, and I am leaving this review voluntarily. ]]> 4.39 2025
author: Julie Soto
name: Luce
average rating: 4.39
book published: 2025
rating: 5
read at: 2025/03/23
date added: 2025/03/28
shelves: young-adult, mystery-thriller, arc, net-galley
review:
I was hooked from the first page and read this in one evening.

Julie Soto is such an auto-buy author for me, and this is definitely one I will need to add to my collection.

Jodi Dillon is part of the 'Thrashes', an elite friend group named after her childhood best friend. When Emily (who was desperate to join the group) commits suicide, suddenly all eyes are on the Thrashers. And after Emily's diary is discovered and it points to Jodi's friends, she has to make the decision to protect herself or betray her friends .

I won't say too much because the twist and turns are what make this book so incredible. This book covers some difficult topics including suicide, domestic violence, statutory rape and bullying but Julie Soto handles them with such ease and sensitivity, without making it feel unrealistic.

I do have a slight pet peeve around an unreliable narrator but I think in this instance, it worked.

If you're put off because it's YA, I beg you to give it a chance!

I received an advanced copy for free through NetGalley, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
]]> 61278222
Asher Garin is a dangerous man. A man without loyalty, a man without a nationality, without a country, or a home. He’s also a mercenary for hire to the highest bidder. His next job is a face he recognises, and after a tip-off, he learns he too is a marked man.

It’s a different game now, and Harry and Asher have a better chance at surviving if they stick together. But it’s not just the game or the rules that have changed. The stakes have too.

Because on their own, they had nothing to lose. Together, they do.

~
#EnemiesToLovers #GayAssassins #UsAgainstThem
Caution: on-page physical and gun violence. Reader discretion advised.]]> 284 N.R. Walker Luce 3 adult, lgbt
The perfect palate cleanser!]]> 4.22 2022
author: N.R. Walker
name: Luce
average rating: 4.22
book published: 2022
rating: 3
read at: 2025/03/25
date added: 2025/03/26
shelves: adult, lgbt
review:
Trained assassins partnering up to find out who is trying to kill them... and falling in love in the process.

The perfect palate cleanser!
]]> 217465190
But when my nephew’s guardianship is contested, I decide I’ll do whatever it takes to keep him in Rose Hill. Even if it means marrying the enemy.

Rhys Dupris.

A man who is secretive, broody, and completely infuriating. A man whose work takes him away for weeks on end and brings him back covered in mysterious bruises—ones he won’t talk about. In fact, we barely talk at all.

Which would be fine, except when he’s not talking, he’s staring. And the way he looks at me is borderline indecent.

The tension between us has always been palpable. But living under the same roof is a dangerous temptation.

I swore I would never forgive him. But that was before I knew the man behind the mask. The one who’s fierce and protective. The one who’s gentle and patient. The one who shows up for us when we need him most.

He’s not at all who I thought he was.

And that makes hating my husband so much harder�� and loving him just a little too easy.]]> 466 Elsie Silver Luce 5 adult, contemporary-romance
Overall, I really loved this book. I loved Tabitha, I loved Rhys and I loved the storyline.

However, something around the relationship development just fell slightly flat for me but I can't quite put my finger on it. I also missed the side characters in this one - maybe why it didn't hit like the others!

I am beyond excited for last book in the series, I'm intrigued to see how Elsie will handle a slightly taboo trope.

Fave Book in the Series :
1. Wild Eyes (5 Stars)
2. Wild Love (5 Stars)
3. Wild Side (4.5 Stars)]]> 4.28 2025
author: Elsie Silver
name: Luce
average rating: 4.28
book published: 2025
rating: 5
read at: 2025/03/18
date added: 2025/03/23
shelves: adult, contemporary-romance
review:
4.5

Overall, I really loved this book. I loved Tabitha, I loved Rhys and I loved the storyline.

However, something around the relationship development just fell slightly flat for me but I can't quite put my finger on it. I also missed the side characters in this one - maybe why it didn't hit like the others!

I am beyond excited for last book in the series, I'm intrigued to see how Elsie will handle a slightly taboo trope.

Fave Book in the Series :
1. Wild Eyes (5 Stars)
2. Wild Love (5 Stars)
3. Wild Side (4.5 Stars)
]]> 214331246 When you’ve been set up to lose everything you love, what is there left to fight for?

As the day dawns on the fiftieth annual Hunger Games, fear grips the districts of Panem. This year, in honor of the Quarter Quell, twice as many tributes will be taken from their homes.

Back in District 12, Haymitch Abernathy is trying not to think too hard about his chances. All he cares about is making it through the day and being with the girl he loves.

When Haymitch’s name is called, he can feel all his dreams break. He’s torn from his family and his love, shuttled to the Capitol with the three other District 12 tributes: a young friend who’s nearly a sister to him, a compulsive oddsmaker, and the most stuck-up girl in town. As the Games begin, Haymitch understands he’s been set up to fail. But there’s something in him that wants to fight . . . and have that fight reverberate far beyond the deadly arena.]]> 382 Suzanne Collins 1546171460 Luce 5 young-adult, dystopian
Haymitch was never meant to be in the Quarter Quell.
Haymitch wasn't a drinker before the Games.
Haymitch was supposed die to in the Quarter Quell so his loved ones would be safe.

The deaths of the tributes just hurt so much more this time. In Katniss' book she only ever really connects with Rue and Peeta, so the other tributes dying doesn't have that same emotional punch. Haymitch was purposely making alliances with the other tributes. The deaths of Ampert, Wyatt, Maysilee, Lou-Lou and Wellie just hit so much harder in this one. I gasped at Ampert's death and Snow's cruelty in making Beetee watch his own 12 year old son die in the Games.

I loved seeing the backstory of so many old characters and we really get a better idea of how many of the Victor's were always fighting back in any way they could.

My only issue with this book is it has a slight plot hole... Snow, nor the Gamemakers, would have let Haymitch get that far in the games with all the trouble he had caused in the lead up, and in the actual Games. Several other tributes had mutts set on them because of "rules broken" but Haymitch was allowed to get to the final 3 before Snow tried to kill him... which was ultimately interrupted and allowed him to win the Games. For me, it doesn't make sense why he would have been allowed to live. Maybe Snow was too arrogant, who knows? But to me it feels like a bit of a stretch that he would have made it that long in the Games.

“I know that every year for my birthday, I will get a new pair of tributes, one girl and one boy, to mentor to their deaths. Another sunrise on the reaping.�� MY HEART HURTS. HURTTTTTS!

“And while Lenore Dove will forever be my true love, Louella is my one and only sweetheart.�� Haymitch calling Katniss 'sweetheart' just means so much more now. I loved seeing the similarities between Katniss and Haymitch, and how many moments in their stories mirrored each other. Haymitch had the potential to be the spark in the rebellion, but circumstances and unluckiness prevented that.]]> 4.65 2025
author: Suzanne Collins
name: Luce
average rating: 4.65
book published: 2025
rating: 5
read at: 2025/03/22
date added: 2025/03/22
shelves: young-adult, dystopian
review:
I knew this book was going to hurt but good lord, Suzanne Collins was on a mission to cause as much pain as possible when she wrote this one.

Haymitch was never meant to be in the Quarter Quell.
Haymitch wasn't a drinker before the Games.
Haymitch was supposed die to in the Quarter Quell so his loved ones would be safe.

The deaths of the tributes just hurt so much more this time. In Katniss' book she only ever really connects with Rue and Peeta, so the other tributes dying doesn't have that same emotional punch. Haymitch was purposely making alliances with the other tributes. The deaths of Ampert, Wyatt, Maysilee, Lou-Lou and Wellie just hit so much harder in this one. I gasped at Ampert's death and Snow's cruelty in making Beetee watch his own 12 year old son die in the Games.

I loved seeing the backstory of so many old characters and we really get a better idea of how many of the Victor's were always fighting back in any way they could.

My only issue with this book is it has a slight plot hole... Snow, nor the Gamemakers, would have let Haymitch get that far in the games with all the trouble he had caused in the lead up, and in the actual Games. Several other tributes had mutts set on them because of "rules broken" but Haymitch was allowed to get to the final 3 before Snow tried to kill him... which was ultimately interrupted and allowed him to win the Games. For me, it doesn't make sense why he would have been allowed to live. Maybe Snow was too arrogant, who knows? But to me it feels like a bit of a stretch that he would have made it that long in the Games.

“I know that every year for my birthday, I will get a new pair of tributes, one girl and one boy, to mentor to their deaths. Another sunrise on the reaping.�� MY HEART HURTS. HURTTTTTS!

“And while Lenore Dove will forever be my true love, Louella is my one and only sweetheart.�� Haymitch calling Katniss 'sweetheart' just means so much more now. I loved seeing the similarities between Katniss and Haymitch, and how many moments in their stories mirrored each other. Haymitch had the potential to be the spark in the rebellion, but circumstances and unluckiness prevented that.
]]> 227948548 Sebastian Rousseau is a grumpy, hot as hell fire pilot who is too damn good with his hands.

It’s the perfect combination. But unfortunately for me, he’s also my ex-boyfriend’s dad.

A chance meeting brought us together and a missed connection has kept us apart.

One year later, a stroke of fate has us living under the same roof—which makes everything between us downright messy.

Because even after all this time, he’s still the man I think about when I fall asleep. The one I can’t get over no matter how hard I try.

He’s working on mending a fragile relationship with his son and we both know acting on these urges would be the ultimate betrayal.

But I see the heat in his eyes. That look of need that never fails to send a shiver down my spine.

The mutual longing is borderline unbearable and the simmering heat between us is downright palpable.

We both know there are rules when it comes to situations like this.

But then again…following the rules never has been my strong suit.]]> Elsie Silver 1464247862 Luce 0 future-release 4.32 2025
author: Elsie Silver
name: Luce
average rating: 4.32
book published: 2025
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/03/22
shelves: future-release
review:

]]> 127616032 Discover the serial killer romance series everyone is talking about!From the no.1 New York Times bestselling author of the genre-breaking international TikTok sensation Butcher & Blackbird and Leather & Lark comes the final book in the Ruinous Love Trilogy - a friends-with-benefits dark romantic comedy.

Murder.

Mayhem.

And spice.

Doctor Fionn Kane is running from a broken heart, one he hopes to mend in small-town Nebraska, far away from his almost-fiance and his derailed surgical career. It's a simpler head down, hard work, and absolutely no romantic relationships. He wants none of the circus he left behind in Boston.

But then the real circus finds him.

Motorcycle performer Rose Evans has spent a decade on the road with the Silveria Circus, and it suits her just fine, especially when she has the urge to indulge in a little murder when she's not in the spotlight. But when a kill goes awry and she ends up with an injured leg, Rose finds herself stuck in Nebraska, at the home of the adorably nerdy town doctor.

The problem is, not every broken heart can be sewn back together.

. . . And the longer you stay in one place, the more likely your ghosts are to catch up.

***


Friends with benefits
Small town romance
Fish out of water
Forced proximity
Hurt/care
Touch her and die]]> 416 Brynne Weaver Luce 3 adult, dark-romance
My main thought throughout this book was... what's the point? The plot was giving absolutely nothing.

Slightly better than Leather & Lark, but not by much.

I'm really sad that I've left this series feeling disappointed, but hopeful for future books from this author.]]> 4.10 2025
author: Brynne Weaver
name: Luce
average rating: 4.10
book published: 2025
rating: 3
read at: 2025/03/16
date added: 2025/03/17
shelves: adult, dark-romance
review:
I really wish this wasn't the case... but this series should have been a standalone. Butcher & Blackbird was a masterpiece... but the following two books were hugely disappointing.

My main thought throughout this book was... what's the point? The plot was giving absolutely nothing.

Slightly better than Leather & Lark, but not by much.

I'm really sad that I've left this series feeling disappointed, but hopeful for future books from this author.
]]> 222139748 Duty. Blood. Honour. Power.

Saeris Fane doesn't want power. The very last thing she needs is her name whispered on an entire court's lips, but now that she's been crowned queen of the Blood Court, she's discovering that a queen's life is not her own. A heavy weight rests upon her shoulders.

Her ward - and her brother - need her back in her homeland . . . but the changes that have strengthened Saeris have also made her weak. Born under blazing suns, Saeris will surely die if she makes her way home through the Quicksilver. Which means that, once again, she must send someone else in her stead . . .

'Keep your mouth shut. Stick to the shadows. And for the love of all seven Gods, do NOT crack any jokes.'

Kingfisher of the Ajun Gate has defeated armies and survived all manner of horrors, but traveling back to Zilvaren with Carrion Swift might just be the death of him. The male just will not shut up. Hidden dangers await them down the narrow alleyways of the Silver City. Unfolding secrets pose impossible threats. Fisher must wrangle the smuggler and accomplish his goals quickly if he wants to see his mate again.

A darkness falls across Yvelia. The realm and their friends are in danger. Together, Saeris and Fisher will pass through fire and brimstone to save them.]]> 624 Callie Hart 1538774224 Luce 0 future-release 4.29 2025
author: Callie Hart
name: Luce
average rating: 4.29
book published: 2025
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/03/16
shelves: future-release
review:

]]> 200033957
This Valentine’s Day, Daisy Murray has her heart set on binge-watching rom-coms. Instead, an earthquake traps her inside a bakery with its impossibly rude and insufferably handsome owner and head baker. They already have a history: she’s always smiled, he’s always scowled. Where better to finally get to know each other than amid the disaster? Then again, they have no choice. Besides, it could have its sweet, undeniable, and unpredictable perks.

Jasmine Guillory’s Drop, Cover, and Hold On is part of The Improbable Meet-Cute, irresistibly romantic stories about finding love when and where you least expect it. They can be read or listened to in one sitting. Let’s make a date of it.]]> 40 Jasmine Guillory 1662519834 Luce 3 2.93 2024
author: Jasmine Guillory
name: Luce
average rating: 2.93
book published: 2024
rating: 3
read at: 2025/03/08
date added: 2025/03/08
shelves: adult, contemporary-romance, novella
review:
My favourite MMC of the series and a cute storyline!
]]> 200034154 USA Today bestselling author of The Hating Game.

Rosie Whittaker and her sister are up for some Galentine’s pampering at a day spa. Getting locked inside a flotation tank is so Rosie. Enter a firefighter hero determined to pry this luckless pearl out of her high-tech shell. All Rosie has to go on is a dreamy voice and a flirty sense of humor. Remain calm, Rosie. This could be what you’ve been waiting for. Is this the man she’s waited for her whole life?

Sally Thorne’s Rosie and the Dreamboat is part of The Improbable Meet-Cute, irresistibly romantic stories about finding love when and where you least expect it. They can be read or listened to in one sitting. Let’s make a date of it.]]> 44 Sally Thorne 1662520085 Luce 2 3.42 2024
author: Sally Thorne
name: Luce
average rating: 3.42
book published: 2024
rating: 2
read at: 2025/03/08
date added: 2025/03/08
shelves: adult, contemporary-romance, novella
review:
I actually needed this one to be a full length novel. The characters were great but just felt a bit meh.
]]> 200034157
Audrey Love is cursed to be the person before you find your soulmate, the girl you dump for your true love. So when her best friend disappears hours before his Valentine’s Day wedding, Audrey fears that she did the unthinkable and kissed him at last night’s bachelor party. With help from the best man, she retraces her steps to find the missing groom and, with any luck, a true love of her own.

Ashley Poston’s With Any Luck is part of The Improbable Meet-Cute, irresistibly romantic stories about finding love when and where you least expect it. They can be read or listened to in one sitting. Let’s make a date of it.]]> 43 Ashley Poston 166251980X Luce 2 3.22 2024
author: Ashley Poston
name: Luce
average rating: 3.22
book published: 2024
rating: 2
read at: 2025/03/08
date added: 2025/03/08
shelves: adult, contemporary-romance, novella
review:
A great idea with a terrible execution.
]]> 200034641
Princess Ilaria has had it up to her tiara with the paparazzi, her own wild reputation, and the public eye. Trading places with her assistant, Ilaria wants just one blissfully ordinary weekend. Then a handsome photographer with a sexy Scottish burr offers to be her guide. Sparks fly, but how long can they last? Ilaria’s secret has to come out—and it could ruin a perfectly serendipitous romance.

Sariah Wilson’s Royal Valentine is part of The Improbable Meet-Cute, irresistibly romantic stories about finding love when and where you least expect it. They can be read or listened to in one sitting. Let’s make a date of it.]]> 71 Sariah Wilson Luce 2 3.14 2024
author: Sariah Wilson
name: Luce
average rating: 3.14
book published: 2024
rating: 2
read at: 2025/03/08
date added: 2025/03/08
shelves: novella, contemporary-romance, adult
review:
The worst of the bunch I'm afraid, and definitely would not have me picking up another book by this author!
]]> 200034606
Holly is dealing with the impending death of her grandmother and still reeling from a bad breakup. One bright spot: a Valentine’s Day card on Holly’s windshield—even if it wasn’t meant for her. An amusing mistake soon turns into a lovely exchange of anonymous notes, little acts of kindness, and a growing affection between two strangers. What happens when one of them has to say goodbye?]]> 61 Abby Jimenez 166251963X Luce 3 3.99 2024
author: Abby Jimenez
name: Luce
average rating: 3.99
book published: 2024
rating: 3
read at: 2025/03/07
date added: 2025/03/08
shelves: adult, contemporary-romance, novella
review:
A cute novella but I will say, Jimenez does not shine in her novellas like she does in her full-length novels.
]]> 200033357 New York Times bestselling authors of The Unhoneymooners.

One typo, and a boy and girl connect by chance. Wishing each other a happy Valentine’s Day isn’t the end. In fact, it becomes a friendly annual tradition—with rules: no pics, no real names, nothing too personal. As years pass, the rules for their email “dates�� are breaking, and they’re sharing more than they imagined—including the urge to ask��what if we actually met?

Christina Lauren’s The Exception to the Rule is part of The Improbable Meet-Cute, irresistibly romantic stories about finding love when and where you least expect it. They can be read or listened to in one sitting.]]> 101 Christina Lauren 1662519893 Luce 4
C (16) accidentally emails T (14) on Valentine's Day and the two of them continue to communicate over the next 10 years whilst keeping their identities a secret.

Would loved to have had more chapters of them in person, rather than the email format. But overall, a super cute novella! ]]> 4.21 2024
author: Christina Lauren
name: Luce
average rating: 4.21
book published: 2024
rating: 4
read at: 2025/03/04
date added: 2025/03/08
shelves: adult, contemporary-romance, novella
review:
Okay, this was actually a lot cuter than I was expecting.

C (16) accidentally emails T (14) on Valentine's Day and the two of them continue to communicate over the next 10 years whilst keeping their identities a secret.

Would loved to have had more chapters of them in person, rather than the email format. But overall, a super cute novella!
]]> 214298303 I didn’t ask for it.
Didn’t even see it coming.
But the moment I do, it’s too late.
Killian Carson is a predator wrapped in sophisticated charm.
He’s cold-blooded, manipulative, and savage.
The worst part is that no one sees his devil side.
I do.
And that will cost me everything.
I run, but the thing about monsters?
They always chase.

This book is not a conventional romance and contains themes that aren't to everyone's liking. Please check the author's note before reading. ]]> 576 Rina Kent 1464238863 Luce 3
Plus, I'll give Rina Kent credit where credit is due. She actually used British slang correctly at times for her British characters without it coming across as weird. Not perfect, but I'll take it. ]]> 3.86 2022
author: Rina Kent
name: Luce
average rating: 3.86
book published: 2022
rating: 3
read at: 2025/02/24
date added: 2025/03/01
shelves: adult, dark-romance, enemies-to-lovers, mafia-romance
review:
I actually somewhat enjoyed this book when it finally got going, but Killian just felt too rapey and creepy for me to fully ever enjoy this book. And I got the rewritten version. I dread to think how bad he was in the original.

Plus, I'll give Rina Kent credit where credit is due. She actually used British slang correctly at times for her British characters without it coming across as weird. Not perfect, but I'll take it.
]]> 228256271 A Human hybrid and an Alpha Were claw against the bonds of fate in the highly anticipated companion novel to the New York Times bestselling Bride.

Serena Paris is orphaned, pack-less, and one of a kind. Coming forward as the first Human-Were hybrid was supposed to heal a centuries-long rift between species. Instead, it made her a target, prey to the ruthless political machinations between Weres, Vampyres, and Humans. With her enemies closing in on her, she has only one option left—if he’ll have her.

As Alpha of the Northwest pack, Koen Alexander commands obedience. His authority is so absolute, only a fool would threaten his mate. It doesn’t matter if Serena doesn’t reciprocate his feelings, nothing will stop him from keeping her safe.

But power-hungry Vampyres and Weres are not the only threats chasing Serena. Sooner or later, her past is bound to catch up with her—and Koen might be the only thing standing between her and total annihilation…]]> 432 Ali Hazelwood 0593955013 Luce 0 future-release 4.40 2025
author: Ali Hazelwood
name: Luce
average rating: 4.40
book published: 2025
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/02/26
shelves: future-release
review:

]]> 221287780
So what is she to do when she finds herself on a plane to California and on her way to a sure death sentence? A one-night stand. At least, that’s all it was supposed to be—one last night to be free. Only, she finds out too late that the dark and mysterious man she solely wanted as a fling is not only her new comrade but also the one she dreaded meeting most—her immediate superior and untouchable devil in the field. Bones.

He’s hell on earth—cruel and unforgiving, but most of all, he hates her, and he makes sure she knows it. And yet, she finds herself unwilling to leave his side when he’s unable to get to the evac point when their mission goes awry.

She stays behind with the devil and the secrets he keeps. They only have one another to trust when no faith is left.]]> 464 K.M. Moronova 1963474074 Luce 4
70-100%... did the rest of the book get lost and she panic wrote this ending, because wtf.

4 stars.]]> 3.75
author: K.M. Moronova
name: Luce
average rating: 3.75
book published:
rating: 4
read at: 2025/02/14
date added: 2025/02/23
shelves: dark-romance, adult, work-place-romance, enemies-to-lovers
review:
0-70%... 5 stars. Pure vibes. Love.

70-100%... did the rest of the book get lost and she panic wrote this ending, because wtf.

4 stars.
]]> 212808709 A competitive diver and an ace swimmer jump into forbidden waters in this steamy college romance from the New York Times bestselling author of The Love Hypothesis.

Scarlett Vandermeer is swimming upstream. A Junior at Stanford and a student-athlete who specializes in platform diving, Scarlett prefers to keep her head down, concentrating on getting into med school and on recovering from the injury that almost ended her career. She has no time for relationships—at least, that’s what she tells herself.

Swim captain, world champion, all-around aquatics golden boy, Lukas Blomqvist thrives on discipline. It’s how he wins gold medals and breaks records: complete focus, with every stroke. On the surface, Lukas and Scarlett have nothing in common. Until a well-guarded secret slips out, and everything changes.

So they start an arrangement. And as the pressure leading to the Olympics heats up, so does their relationship. It was supposed to be just a temporary, mutually satisfying fling. But when staying away from Lukas becomes impossible, Scarlett realizes that her heart might be treading into dangerous water...]]> 464 Ali Hazelwood Luce 5
I will accept nothing but positive comments about this book.

If you didn't love this book... I don't want a single book recommendation from you. EVER.

Was Lukas, our Swedish MMC, really a Canadian wrapped up in blue and yellow? Absolutely. That man did not have a single drop of European blood. But I digress.

The chemistry. The angst. The smut.

Big boy obsessed with nerdy girl. Diving and science references I didn't understand.

LATHER RINSE REPEAT ALI HAZELWOOD. GIMME MORE.]]> 3.95 2025
author: Ali Hazelwood
name: Luce
average rating: 3.95
book published: 2025
rating: 5
read at: 2025/02/07
date added: 2025/02/19
shelves: adult, contemporary-romance, sports-romance
review:
�� stars. Left my panties WHET. (I'm sorry)

I will accept nothing but positive comments about this book.

If you didn't love this book... I don't want a single book recommendation from you. EVER.

Was Lukas, our Swedish MMC, really a Canadian wrapped up in blue and yellow? Absolutely. That man did not have a single drop of European blood. But I digress.

The chemistry. The angst. The smut.

Big boy obsessed with nerdy girl. Diving and science references I didn't understand.

LATHER RINSE REPEAT ALI HAZELWOOD. GIMME MORE.
]]> 217513554 B.K. Borison Luce 0 future-release 4.50 2026
author: B.K. Borison
name: Luce
average rating: 4.50
book published: 2026
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/02/18
shelves: future-release
review:

]]> 57359837
To the rest of the world, he was the little boy who went missing on the Fourth of July. But to Sydney Neville, he was everything. Her heart hasn't been the same since her best friend disappeared, but she's learned to build her life around that missing piece.

Twenty-two years later, the last thing Sydney expects is for Oliver Lynch to return. Having been captive underground for decades, he's unfamiliar with the strange new world that awaits him―but he's alive. He's here. And no matter how he's changed, he and Sydney both still feel the connection that runs between them.

But as their reborn friendship begins to feel like something more, Sydney and Oliver realize there are still jagged, painful truths creating space between them. The walls Sydney's built don't want to come down, and as Oliver hunts for his missing memories and lost time, he realizes his nightmare is not yet over.

With nothing as it seems, is there space for love to bloom in this dark place?]]> 344 Jennifer Hartmann Luce 2 adult, dark-romance 4.15 2021
author: Jennifer Hartmann
name: Luce
average rating: 4.15
book published: 2021
rating: 2
read at: 2025/02/04
date added: 2025/02/17
shelves: adult, dark-romance
review:
I was here for a good time, and I did not receive that.
]]> 58014893
Until she receives the call that sends her racing back to Barry’s Bay and into the orbit of Sam Florek—the man she never thought she’d have to live without.

For six summers, through hazy afternoons on the water and warm summer nights working in his family’s restaurant and curling up together with books—medical textbooks for him and work-in-progress horror short stories for her—Percy and Sam had been inseparable. Eventually that friendship turned into something breathtakingly more, before it fell spectacularly apart.

When Percy returns to the lake for Sam’s mother’s funeral, their connection is as undeniable as it had always been. But until Percy can confront the decisions she made and the years she’s spent punishing herself for them, they’ll never know whether their love might be bigger than the biggest mistakes of their past.

Told over the course of six years and one weekend, Every Summer After is a big, sweeping nostalgic look at love and the people and choices that mark us forever.

Six summers to fall in love. One moment to fall apart. A weekend to get it right.]]> 320 Carley Fortune 0593438531 Luce 0 to-read 4.17 2022
author: Carley Fortune
name: Luce
average rating: 4.17
book published: 2022
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/02/03
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> 223199392 Two good neighbors make the best of a bad Valentine’s Day in a funny and improbably romantic short story by the #1 New York Times bestselling author of Just for the Summer.

It’s Valentine’s Day weekend, and Charlotte and Seth are not looking for romance. Armed with emotional-support bear spray, Charlotte is in self-imposed isolation and on guard from men. Having a stalker can do that to a person’s nerves. Just across the hall and giving off woodsy vibes is Seth, a recently divorced arborist. As in today recently. Heights, he’s fine with. Trust? Not so much. But when disaster traps them one flight up and no way down, an outrageously precarious predicament forces a tree-loving guy and a rattled girl next door to embrace their captivity. Soon their defenses are breaking away. Considering how close they both are to the edge, Charlotte and Seth could be in danger of falling—in love.]]> 82 Abby Jimenez 1662529082 Luce 3
I don't think a novella that mostly focuses on the romance was the best idea for such a serious topic. But loved the fact she beat the shit out of him. ]]> 4.12 2025
author: Abby Jimenez
name: Luce
average rating: 4.12
book published: 2025
rating: 3
read at: 2025/02/02
date added: 2025/02/03
shelves: adult, contemporary-romance, novella
review:
This would have been a brilliant full length novel, but a topic such as stalking needs to be handled better in my opinion.

I don't think a novella that mostly focuses on the romance was the best idea for such a serious topic. But loved the fact she beat the shit out of him.
]]> 209220944
But Sarah has begun to wonder... Who is she without her other half?

When she decides to take on a project of her own, a fundraising gala in memoriam of her late mother, Sarah wants nothing more than to prove to herself—and to everyone else—that she doesn’t need Caleb’s help to succeed. She’s still her mother’s daughter, after all. Independent and capable.

That is until the event fails and Caleb uninvitedly steps in to save the day.

The rift that follows unearths a decade of grievances between them and doubts begin to grow. Are they truly the same people they were when they got married at nineteen? Are they supposed to be?

In a desperate attempt to fix what they fear is near breaking, Sarah and Caleb make the spontaneous decision to join a grueling hiking trip intended to guide couples through rough patches.

What follows is a life-affirming comedy of errors as two nature-averse people fight their way out of the woods in order to find their way back to their roots.]]> 336 Hannah Bonam-Young 0593871863 Luce 5 adult, contemporary-romance
HOWEVER.

I adored this book.

Sarah and Caleb are soulmates. I never felt like their marriage was finished, but you could tell there were some very real and realistic problems in their marriage, and Hannah explored these brilliantly. I loved watching these two characters heal together and realise there was so much love, but they had to learn to be together again.

The side characters were excellent additions to this book and I fully enjoyed Bo and Win popping up throughout. Baby August!!

And I fell in love with both Sarah and Caleb. Sarah was so relatable, and I felt so guilty for disliking her. Caleb. My Love. URGHHHH. I LOVE A NERD.

And yes, I did cry repeatedly throughout this book. But I'm hormonal so take that with a pinch of salt. ]]> 4.00 2025
author: Hannah Bonam-Young
name: Luce
average rating: 4.00
book published: 2025
rating: 5
read at: 2025/02/01
date added: 2025/02/02
shelves: adult, contemporary-romance
review:
I definitely went into this book with trepidation. I am not the biggest fan of marriage-in-crisis books and I wasn't the biggest fan of Sarah as a character in Out on a Limb.

HOWEVER.

I adored this book.

Sarah and Caleb are soulmates. I never felt like their marriage was finished, but you could tell there were some very real and realistic problems in their marriage, and Hannah explored these brilliantly. I loved watching these two characters heal together and realise there was so much love, but they had to learn to be together again.

The side characters were excellent additions to this book and I fully enjoyed Bo and Win popping up throughout. Baby August!!

And I fell in love with both Sarah and Caleb. Sarah was so relatable, and I felt so guilty for disliking her. Caleb. My Love. URGHHHH. I LOVE A NERD.

And yes, I did cry repeatedly throughout this book. But I'm hormonal so take that with a pinch of salt.
]]> 53344030
Nick and Charlie are very much in love. They've finally said those three little words, and Charlie has almost persuaded his mum to let him sleep over at Nick's house ... But with Nick going off to university next year, is everything about to change?

By Alice Oseman, winner of the YA Book Prize, Heartstopper encompasses all the small moments of Nick and Charlie's lives that together make up something larger, which speaks to all of us.

Contains discussions around mental health and eating disorders, and sexual references.]]> 336 Alice Oseman 1444957651 Luce 4
Not sure I'm ready for the last book!]]> 4.47 2023
author: Alice Oseman
name: Luce
average rating: 4.47
book published: 2023
rating: 4
read at: 2025/02/01
date added: 2025/02/02
shelves: young-adult, lgbt, friends-to-lovers, graphic-novel
review:
So, so, so cute!

Not sure I'm ready for the last book!
]]> 56060300 Boy meets boy. Boys become friends. Boys fall in love. The bestselling LGBTQ+ graphic novel about life, love, and everything that happens in between: this is the fourth volume of HEARTSTOPPER, for fans of The Art of Being Normal, Holly Bourne and Love, Simon.

Charlie didn't think Nick could ever like him back, but now they're officially boyfriends. Charlie's beginning to feel ready to say those three little words: I love you.

Nick's been feeling the same, but he's got a lot on his mind - not least coming out to his dad, and the fact that Charlie might have an eating disorder.

As summer turns to autumn and a new school year begins, Charlie and Nick are about to learn a lot about what love means.

Heartstopper is about love, friendship, loyalty and mental illness. It encompasses all the small stories of Nick and Charlie's lives that together make up something larger, which speaks to all of us.

This is the fourth volume of Heartstopper, which has now been optioned for television by See-Saw Films.]]> 384 Alice Oseman 1338617567 Luce 4
I need to stop crying over these books!]]> 4.57 2021
author: Alice Oseman
name: Luce
average rating: 4.57
book published: 2021
rating: 4
read at: 2025/02/01
date added: 2025/02/02
shelves: friends-to-lovers, graphic-novel, lgbt, young-adult
review:
This book handles the difficult topic of eating disorders and mental health, so bloody well!! I love a parent advising her 16 year old son that he can't be the one to fix his boyfriend!!

I need to stop crying over these books!
]]> 43449920
Meanwhile Tao and Elle will face their feelings for each other, Tara and Darcy share more about their relationship origin story, and the teachers supervising the trip seem�� rather close��?]]> 384 Alice Oseman Luce 4
AND THE TEACHERS!]]> 4.55 2020
author: Alice Oseman
name: Luce
average rating: 4.55
book published: 2020
rating: 4
read at: 2025/01/30
date added: 2025/02/02
shelves: young-adult, lgbt, friends-to-lovers, graphic-novel
review:
Okay, the trip to Paris was super cute.

AND THE TEACHERS!
]]> 43307358
But love works in surprising ways, and Nick is discovering all kinds of things about his friends, his family ... and himself.]]> 320 Alice Oseman 1444951408 Luce 5
Nick's coming out to his mum had me weeping. So beautifully written/drawn!!

I love Nick and Charlie!]]> 4.52 2019
author: Alice Oseman
name: Luce
average rating: 4.52
book published: 2019
rating: 5
read at: 2025/01/29
date added: 2025/01/30
shelves: graphic-novel, young-adult, friends-to-lovers, lgbt
review:
Why did I cry???

Nick's coming out to his mum had me weeping. So beautifully written/drawn!!

I love Nick and Charlie!
]]> 40495957
Charlie Spring is in Year 10 at Truham Grammar School for Boys. The past year hasn't been too great, but at least he's not being bullied anymore. Nick Nelson is in Year 11 and on the school rugby team. He's heard a little about Charlie - the kid who was outed last year and bullied for a few months - but he's never had the opportunity to talk to him.

They quickly become friends, and soon Charlie is falling hard for Nick, even though he doesn't think he has a chance. But love works in surprising ways, and sometimes good things are waiting just around the corner...]]> 288 Alice Oseman 152722533X Luce 4
Definitely recognised those locker rooms, form groups and some of those teachers - if a head teacher with a cape appears I may get goosebumps!

Enjoyed book 1 and will be jumping into book 2 immediately.]]> 4.43 2018
author: Alice Oseman
name: Luce
average rating: 4.43
book published: 2018
rating: 4
read at: 2025/01/29
date added: 2025/01/29
shelves: graphic-novel, lgbt, friends-to-lovers, young-adult
review:
So I went to school with Alice and it's amazing to see how much of our school experience influenced this book.

Definitely recognised those locker rooms, form groups and some of those teachers - if a head teacher with a cape appears I may get goosebumps!

Enjoyed book 1 and will be jumping into book 2 immediately.
]]> 49616952 Cold cases, murder, lies, and an unimaginable truth.

Sydney Detective August Shaw has spent the last decade of work solving cold cases. Since the death of his boyfriend eight years ago, August works alone, lives alone, is alone--and that's exactly how he likes it. His work is his entire life, and he's convinced a string of unsolved cold-case suicides are linked to what could be Australia's worst ever serial killer. Problem is, no one believes him.

Senior Constable Jacob Porter loves his life in the small town of Tallowwood in the middle of the rainforests in northern New South Wales. He runs summer camps for the local Indigenous kids, plays rugby with his mates, has a close family, and he's the local LGBTQIA+ Liaison and the Indigenous Liaison Officer.

When human remains are found in the camping grounds at Tallowwood Reserve, Jake's new case turns out to be linked to August's cold cases, and Jake agrees they're not suicides at all. With Jacob now firmly in August's corner, they face one hurdle after another. Even when more remains are found, they can't seem to gain ground.

But when the body of a fellow police officer turns up under the same MO, it can't be ignored anymore. August and Jake must trace the untraceable before the killer takes his next victim or before he stops one of them, permanently.]]> 287 N.R. Walker Luce 5
I've been craving a mystery/thriller and this one was perfect.

The romance is definitely a sub-plot in this which I preferred, because I was so intrigued by the murder mystery. This book is rather short but doesn't feel rushed which I wasn't expecting. The pacing was perfect for those for looking for a mystery to keep them hooked!

The author dropped clues throughout the book that I wasn't shocked when the "killer" was revealed, but she still managed to throw in a plot twist that had me hooked.

My only critique would be how Jake acted towards the end o the book, especially when he had suspicions about a certain someone... It just felt very out of character.

But otherwise, this book has me craving another good mystery-thriller!]]> 4.44 2019
author: N.R. Walker
name: Luce
average rating: 4.44
book published: 2019
rating: 5
read at: 2025/01/28
date added: 2025/01/29
shelves: adult, age-gap, grumpy-sunshine, lgbt, mystery-thriller, work-place-romance
review:
Oh, what a fun read! Thank you to my wonderful friend T for this recommendation!

I've been craving a mystery/thriller and this one was perfect.

The romance is definitely a sub-plot in this which I preferred, because I was so intrigued by the murder mystery. This book is rather short but doesn't feel rushed which I wasn't expecting. The pacing was perfect for those for looking for a mystery to keep them hooked!

The author dropped clues throughout the book that I wasn't shocked when the "killer" was revealed, but she still managed to throw in a plot twist that had me hooked.

My only critique would be how Jake acted towards the end o the book, especially when he had suspicions about a certain someone... It just felt very out of character.

But otherwise, this book has me craving another good mystery-thriller!
]]> 216734941 Butting heads leads to knocking boots in this wildly sexy enemies-to-lovers, grumpy/sunshine, small town cowboy romance by Jessica Peterson.

My dad and I have been estranged for years. But as his only living relative, it’s no surprise I inherit his massive cattle ranch when he dies. Something that is a surprise? The stipulation in his will, which requires me to live on the ranch and actively manage it for a year before I can access my inheritance money.

I haven’t stepped foot in Hartsville, Texas, population one thousand, since my parents split when I was six. Now a city girl through and through, I never imagined having to move back to cowboy country. But I need the money to invest in my company, and a girl’s gotta do what a girl’s gotta do.

There’s just one giant roadblock to my plan: the ranch’s foreman, grumpy cowboy Cash Rivers. I don’t care how good he looks in his Wranglers and chaps. He’s rude, he’s growly, and he wants me gone. I’d fire him in a heartbeat, but I need this cowboy to teach me the ropes of running a ranch.

We’re enemies from the get-go. But turns out, Cash is really good at this ranch thing. He’s got strong hands, an intelligent mind, and let’s just say everything really is bigger in Texas. Working alongside him leads to conversations beneath the stars. Throw in some cheek-to-cheek dancing at the local dive bar, and it all feels so right that I start to fall in love with life on the ranch. And maybe with him, too.

But my stay in Hartsville is only temporary. And you know what they say about cowboys: they may break horses, but they also break hearts. If only Cash hadn’t already lassoed mine��

CASH is the first standalone book in the brand new steamy, interconnected Lucky River Ranch Series.]]> 423 Jessica Peterson Luce 3
"You'll be in for a world of hurt" reading that line did enough.

And I'm so over characters being irresponsible with birth control... and then they're shocked when the FMC is late.]]> 4.00 2024
author: Jessica Peterson
name: Luce
average rating: 4.00
book published: 2024
rating: 3
read at: 2025/01/27
date added: 2025/01/28
shelves: adult, contemporary-romance, small-town-romance
review:
The dialogue was so cringey.

"You'll be in for a world of hurt" reading that line did enough.

And I'm so over characters being irresponsible with birth control... and then they're shocked when the FMC is late.
]]> 209019824 Expect: a damaged Russian mobster and a grouchy nomad. Hurt comfort, second chances, forced proximity. Love ain’t true if it doesn’t hurt.

Viktor

The message from my brother lies bold and bright on the screen.

This will be it.

Four words that could mean the end or the beginning. And for many years, as long as my sister was safe, I hadn’t much cared which. But as my gaze falls on the woven thread knotted at my wrist and the rough diamond of a man sleeping beside me, I realise everything has changed.

Ranger.

I want more than a hot summer with him. A handful of stolen nights. I don’t deserve him—no one does. But true to the fear I’ve carried since I met him, I can’t give him up.

We survive together, or we die.

And if we live?

I will love his divine heart forever.

Divine Heart is the eighth book in the Rebel Kings MC series. A sizzling MM love story with all the trigger warnings you’d expect from a gripping biker romance. ]]> 452 Garrett Leigh 1916569307 Luce 2
Boring. An absolute snore I'm sorry to say. Ranger and Victor weren't even reunited until we're about 32% into the book. Their relationship was rushed and under developed and again, hugely boring! And then we don't see the Rebel King's gang until around 75%, who if we're honest are the best thing about this series.

The characters and the lack of plot made this a borderline painful read.

My least favourite of the series so far!

Book Series Ranking:
1. Devil's Dance & Saint's Song - 5 stars! (Alexei, Saint & Cam) - Book 1 & 2
2. Reluctant Renegade - 5 stars! (Folk & Decoy) - Book 5
3. Eternally Blessed - 4.25 stars! (Orla, Nash & Locke) - Book 7
4. Unholy Trinity - 4 stars! (Orla, Nash & Locke) - Book 6
5. Love Thy Brother - 4 stars! (River & Rubi) - Book 4
6. Forgive Me Father - 3 stars! (Mateo & Embry) - Book 3
7. Divine Heart - 2 stars! (Victor & Ranger) - Book 8]]> 4.41 2024
author: Garrett Leigh
name: Luce
average rating: 4.41
book published: 2024
rating: 2
read at: 2025/01/26
date added: 2025/01/27
shelves: adult, dark-romance, mc-romance
review:
Yeah nah, this was rough.

Boring. An absolute snore I'm sorry to say. Ranger and Victor weren't even reunited until we're about 32% into the book. Their relationship was rushed and under developed and again, hugely boring! And then we don't see the Rebel King's gang until around 75%, who if we're honest are the best thing about this series.

The characters and the lack of plot made this a borderline painful read.

My least favourite of the series so far!

Book Series Ranking:
1. Devil's Dance & Saint's Song - 5 stars! (Alexei, Saint & Cam) - Book 1 & 2
2. Reluctant Renegade - 5 stars! (Folk & Decoy) - Book 5
3. Eternally Blessed - 4.25 stars! (Orla, Nash & Locke) - Book 7
4. Unholy Trinity - 4 stars! (Orla, Nash & Locke) - Book 6
5. Love Thy Brother - 4 stars! (River & Rubi) - Book 4
6. Forgive Me Father - 3 stars! (Mateo & Embry) - Book 3
7. Divine Heart - 2 stars! (Victor & Ranger) - Book 8
]]> 201737933 Every Missing Moment. Rebel Kings Volume One

The missing moments you've longed for from the beloved Rebel Kings MC series, all wrapped up in a gorgeous new collection. Deleted scenes, outtakes, prequels, and character extensions for your favourite Rebel Kings boys!

Volume One encapsulates content from the first four

Devil's DanceSaint's SongForgive Me FatherLove Thy Brother
Don't miss this exclusive collection of short stories from the Rebel Kings series. Contains sizzling MM romance, MMM/poly romance, and all the gritty angst, found family, and brotherhood you've been craving.]]> 160 Garrett Leigh 1916569218 Luce 3 4.30 2024
author: Garrett Leigh
name: Luce
average rating: 4.30
book published: 2024
rating: 3
read at: 2025/01/25
date added: 2025/01/25
shelves: adult, dark-romance, mc-romance, novella
review:
Some cute extra chapters but yeah... I'm glad these didn't feature in the actual characters books.
]]> 203325526 Fourth Wing meets The Serpent and the Wings of Night in this dark, alluring fantasy romance filled with tension, combat, magic, fae, fallen angels, vampyres, and two stubborn rivals.

Huntyr has fought for survival her entire life. Raised under Lord, the master of assassins in Midgrave, she has spent over twenty years learning to kill the blood-hungry, depraved vampyres that lurk in the darkness. Huntyr is the most lethal fae in the kingdom, which is why Lord chooses her to complete the next mission.

Huntyr must survive Moira Seminary and make it into The Golden City—the mysterious elite society of the few remaining angels and the magic fae who live in luxury with no crime, no poverty, and certainly no vampyres.

Only when she arrives at the academy, she’s forced to room with Wolf—the terrifying fallen angel who happens to know her assassin identity.

Determined to keep her head down in Moira, Huntyr tries her best to ignore Wolf. Over time, though, he not only becomes the only person she can lean on, but the one who might keep her alive through the life-threatening tests to get into The Golden City.

A wolf and his huntress. An academy designed to break them.

Huntyr will do anything to please the assassin master, but Wolf begins to test her in ways she never imagined. Is she strong enough to stick to the mission? Or will new truths—and alliances—put everything at risk?

Wings So Wicked is a new adult fantasy romance with fae, vampyres, fallen angels, magical trials, fierce main characters, dark themes, forced proximity, 'who did this to you' moments, possessive males, rivals to lovers, elite societies, hidden identities, and so much more. Readers who love academy settings, main characters riddled with darkness, angst, and slow burn romances will devour this story!]]> 381 Emily Blackwood Luce 0 to-read 3.75
author: Emily Blackwood
name: Luce
average rating: 3.75
book published:
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/01/25
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> 209439446
Now Violet must journey beyond the failing Aretian wards to seek allies from unfamiliar lands to stand with Navarre. The trip will test every bit of her wit, luck, and strength, but she will do anything to save what she loves—her dragons, her family, her home, and him.

Even if it means keeping a secret so big, it could destroy everything. They need an army. They need power. They need magic. And they need the one thing only Violet can find—the truth. But a storm is coming...and not everyone can survive its wrath.]]> 527 Rebecca Yarros 1649374186 Luce 4 adult, romantasy
[spoilers removed]]]> 4.18 2025
author: Rebecca Yarros
name: Luce
average rating: 4.18
book published: 2025
rating: 4
read at: 2025/01/22
date added: 2025/01/24
shelves: adult, romantasy
review:
Me taking more than a day to read an anticipated release and actually trying to savour it this time:

[spoilers removed]
]]> 201823432 Locke

Three is the magic number. I gave them my heart, and they gave me theirs. But the downside of living my best life is that I have everything to lose. And sometimes it’s not the obvious thing that can rip it all away.

It’s fate.

It’s chance.

It’s the worst luck in the world for the soul who least deserves it, and the one cruelty I can’t take.

The one storm we can’t weather.

I’m not a religious man. Not even close. But I’m praying right now.

For her. For him. For me.

Cos there is no us without him, and I won’t survive it if everything we’ve fought for is nothing but a dream.


Eternally Blessed is the seventh instalment in the bestselling Rebel Kings MC series. An MMF romance with strong MM romance content, hurt/comfort, angst, found family, forced proximity, single dad, and friends-to-lovers tropes.

Content warnings for everything you’d expect from a gripping biker romance.]]> 496 Garrett Leigh 1916569153 Luce 4
If I'm honest, I really disliked the dynamic between Orla, Nash & Locke. Whereas Alexei, Saint and Cam worked as a polyamorous couple I didn't feel the same towards these three. Is Orla supposed to feel like a third wheel? Probably not.

However, I absolutely adore Locke and think he deserves the entire world. And I love that he has Nash and Orla.

But yeah... the vibe in certain parts of this book just didn't feel right to me.

However, I am BEYOND excited to start Ranger and Victor's book. I ws thinking about them whilst reading Onyx Storm.

Book Series Ranking:
1. Devil's Dance & Saint's Song - 5 stars! (Alexei, Saint & Cam) - Book 1 & 2
2. Reluctant Renegade - 5 stars! (Folk & Decoy) - Book 5
3. Eternally Blessed - 4.25 stars! (Orla, Nash & Locke) - Book 7
4. Unholy Trinity - 4 stars! (Orla, Nash & Locke) - Book 6
5. Love Thy Brother - 4 stars! (River & Rubi) - Book 4
6. Forgive Me Father - 3 stars! (Mateo & Embry) - Book 3]]> 4.37 2024
author: Garrett Leigh
name: Luce
average rating: 4.37
book published: 2024
rating: 4
read at: 2025/01/20
date added: 2025/01/22
shelves: adult, dark-romance, friends-to-lovers, why-choose, mc-romance
review:
Okay, I enjoyed this one slightly more than book 6 and that was due to the plot.

If I'm honest, I really disliked the dynamic between Orla, Nash & Locke. Whereas Alexei, Saint and Cam worked as a polyamorous couple I didn't feel the same towards these three. Is Orla supposed to feel like a third wheel? Probably not.

However, I absolutely adore Locke and think he deserves the entire world. And I love that he has Nash and Orla.

But yeah... the vibe in certain parts of this book just didn't feel right to me.

However, I am BEYOND excited to start Ranger and Victor's book. I ws thinking about them whilst reading Onyx Storm.

Book Series Ranking:
1. Devil's Dance & Saint's Song - 5 stars! (Alexei, Saint & Cam) - Book 1 & 2
2. Reluctant Renegade - 5 stars! (Folk & Decoy) - Book 5
3. Eternally Blessed - 4.25 stars! (Orla, Nash & Locke) - Book 7
4. Unholy Trinity - 4 stars! (Orla, Nash & Locke) - Book 6
5. Love Thy Brother - 4 stars! (River & Rubi) - Book 4
6. Forgive Me Father - 3 stars! (Mateo & Embry) - Book 3
]]> 223058218
Book 6 will be a gut wrenching story that will have you questioning your morals along with your sanity. Blurb to come.]]> Brea Alepoú Luce 0 future-release 4.64
author: Brea Alepoú
name: Luce
average rating: 4.64
book published:
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/01/20
shelves: future-release
review:

]]> 167132817 A full steam, page-turning Poly Romance. Why Choose one book boyfriend when you can have two? Satisfy your romantic cravings with this heart-pounding hurt/comfort love story.

The vice-president of the Rebel Kings MC.

The girl of his dreams.

And the six-foot-five firefighter-turned-bodyguard they can’t resist.

Nash

It’s three in the morning, and we’re in her bed. My body throbs from his mouth on me, my blood still whooshing in my ears.

I want to make him feel like this, so I can drown in it.

So I can drown in him.

Goddamn, I want to suffocate in every fibre of Locke Halliwell with the woman I love at my side.

He has me fragile already.

She has me in pieces at her feet.

And man alive, I wish that was all I had to worry about.

But this life. It’s vicious. It’s deadly. And if I can’t protect every soul I’ve ever loved from the past, the future is already in ashes at my feet.

Unholy Trinity is the sixth instalment in the bestselling Rebel Kings MC series. An MMF romance with strong MM romance content, hurt/comfort, angst, found family, forced proximity, single dad, and friends-to-lovers tropes.

Content warnings for everything you’d expect from a biker romance.]]> 418 Garrett Leigh 1916569064 Luce 4
The plot in this one was a little naff and I'm not liking the dynamic between the three of them so far. It did improve nearer the end and I'm hoping book 7 explores the three of them even more. Everything just felt a little too surface-level for the most part.

I don't think it helped after Alexei, Saint & Cam, I was expecting something a little stronger from Garrett Leigh regarding another trio. I did find Nash & Locke's development rather interesting and I'm hoping we see more of this!

Nash is definitely my favourite out of the trio, and he's definitely not what I was expecting weirdly. I'm hoping for more from Locke and Orla.

Overall, I'm enjoying it but I have that feeling of wanting just a little bit more.

Book Series Ranking:
1. Devil's Dance & Saint's Song - 5 stars! (Alexei, Saint & Cam)
2. Reluctant Renegade - 5 stars! (Folk & Decoy)
3. Unholy Trinity - 4 stars! (Orla, Nash & Locke)
4. Love Thy Brother - 4 stars! (River & Rubi)
5. Forgive Me Father - 3 stars! (Mateo & Embry)]]> 4.33 2023
author: Garrett Leigh
name: Luce
average rating: 4.33
book published: 2023
rating: 4
read at: 2025/01/19
date added: 2025/01/19
shelves: adult, dark-romance, friends-to-lovers, lgbt, mc-romance, why-choose
review:
First buddy read of the year with my Gracie-Lou completed - after she made me wait a week to read this!!

The plot in this one was a little naff and I'm not liking the dynamic between the three of them so far. It did improve nearer the end and I'm hoping book 7 explores the three of them even more. Everything just felt a little too surface-level for the most part.

I don't think it helped after Alexei, Saint & Cam, I was expecting something a little stronger from Garrett Leigh regarding another trio. I did find Nash & Locke's development rather interesting and I'm hoping we see more of this!

Nash is definitely my favourite out of the trio, and he's definitely not what I was expecting weirdly. I'm hoping for more from Locke and Orla.

Overall, I'm enjoying it but I have that feeling of wanting just a little bit more.

Book Series Ranking:
1. Devil's Dance & Saint's Song - 5 stars! (Alexei, Saint & Cam)
2. Reluctant Renegade - 5 stars! (Folk & Decoy)
3. Unholy Trinity - 4 stars! (Orla, Nash & Locke)
4. Love Thy Brother - 4 stars! (River & Rubi)
5. Forgive Me Father - 3 stars! (Mateo & Embry)
]]> 57993571
My body has other plans.

Now that I’m awakened, I can’t survive another heat alone.

Problem is, I hate alphas, hate packs, and really super hate the so-called mates I can’t forgive and can’t forget.

Now my biological clock’s ticking too fast to handle, and I can’t wait on Wyvern Pack to figure out their damage.

I’ll take care of my own needs.

And if you can’t give me what I want, then get out of my way.

Because this omega bites back.

��� Burn: Medium

��� Heat: High (spicy MM + MMFMMM scenes)

��� Alert: Growly alpha males, no shifting

��� Warning: Contains MM content, frequent cursing, references to past assault that may be disturbing, and a few alphaholes who need to grovel for redemption.]]> 350 Lola Rock 1943858829 Luce 4
However, the book lost a star because I found there was something missing from the grovelling. I wanted just a little bit more.]]> 3.88 2022
author: Lola Rock
name: Luce
average rating: 3.88
book published: 2022
rating: 4
read at: 2025/01/18
date added: 2025/01/18
shelves: adult, omega-verse, slow-burn, why-choose
review:
Okay, this was a satisfying ending. The plot was a bit mehhhh but I loved the characters so much that I was hooked. Finn was easily my favourite!

However, the book lost a star because I found there was something missing from the grovelling. I wanted just a little bit more.
]]> 60193958 Expect: a fragile king, a sweet-hearted henchman, an enigmatic hitman, and a fight to the death.

Cam, Alexei, and Saint have survived their battle with the devil, but with too many enemies to count, can they survive the war?

“Kill me,�� I choked out. “If he’s dead, you gotta kill me too.��

One club, one heart.

Three men, one soul.

Can loving someone kill you? I feel like the world is ending every time I look at them.

Cam. My brother. My president.

He’s the love of my life

And then there’s Alexei. I didn’t know I could feel this way about one person, let alone two. But I think of him in every breath I breathe for Cam. Every thundering beat of my heart. Because there is no Cam without him.

There is no me. My life wasn’t worth living until I found something worth dying for.

And I’d die for them a thousand times.

Saint’s Song is the second in a hurt/comfort, biker romance, MMM duet from the world of the Rebel Kings MC. Content warnings inside the book.]]> 396 Garrett Leigh 1913220788 Luce 5
Garrett Leigh found the perfect balance between the three of them, and I couldn't imagine one without the other two. She managed to balance the three PoV's perfectly, and I came away from this book adoring the three of them even more.

Brilliant storyline but honestly, I could have just read about these three doing the weekly shop. I have a huge soft spot for Alexei and I'm not shocked that didn't change in this book.

Can't wait to dive into book 3!

Book Series Ranking
1. Devil's Dance & Saint's Song - 5 stars!]]> 4.32 2022
author: Garrett Leigh
name: Luce
average rating: 4.32
book published: 2022
rating: 5
read at: 2025/01/08
date added: 2025/01/18
shelves: adult, friends-to-lovers, lgbt, mc-romance, dark-romance
review:
What a perfect end to Saint, Alexei & Cam's story!

Garrett Leigh found the perfect balance between the three of them, and I couldn't imagine one without the other two. She managed to balance the three PoV's perfectly, and I came away from this book adoring the three of them even more.

Brilliant storyline but honestly, I could have just read about these three doing the weekly shop. I have a huge soft spot for Alexei and I'm not shocked that didn't change in this book.

Can't wait to dive into book 3!

Book Series Ranking
1. Devil's Dance & Saint's Song - 5 stars!
]]> 59723078 Opposites attract. The outlaw biker and the accountant. Straightlaced vs straight to hell. Or heaven, depending on how you look at it.

And you can look at it any way you like, doesn’t mean it’s true. Either way, falling for snarky Alexei Ivanov is the lightbulb moment I’ve been waiting for my whole damn life. Or at least since my head got turned by someone else. A man I call brother, but he's so much more than that.

I’ve loved Saint Malone for years. My loyal wingman has owned my heart so long I figured it had died of yearning for him. But Saint is as fragile as he is deadly. I don’t know how to help him until Alexei brings me to life in ways I can’t describe.

He opens my eyes, and I see them both.

I love them both.

With the weight of the underworld bearing down on me, I just gotta stay alive long enough to tell them.

Devil’s Dance is the first in a hurt/comfort, dark romance, MMM duet from the world of the Rebel Kings MC. Expect: tattoos and leather, an enigmatic Russian hitman, and dark and dirty themes.

*Trigger warnings: childhood abuse, sex work, graphic violence, death.]]> 414 Garrett Leigh 191322077X Luce 5
This is my first MMM romance and my god, what a fabulous book! Devil's Dance is the first of two books for Cam, Alexei and Saint's story. This book only features Alexei and Cam's PoV so I'm absolutely gagging for Saint's PoV in book 2.

I've always disliked when it is obvious that the author favours one partner over the other, but Garrett Leigh has managed to find the balance between Cam, Alexei and Saint. The dynamic between Cam & Saint having always been in love but never crossing that line, Cam and Alexei's instant connection after a one night stand and Alexei and Saint's growing connection that I'm hoping will be explored/explained further in book 2. Alexei's little obsession with Saint just warmed my heart and I loved how they were both just stalking/tracking each other.

I definitely have a soft spot for Alexei but that's only because I feel like we learnt the most about him in book 1. I can see Saint joining him very quickly!

Overall, a fabulous mix of MMM romance in a MC club. The author also has me enjoying a book set in the UK, which hardly ever happens!]]> 4.07 2022
author: Garrett Leigh
name: Luce
average rating: 4.07
book published: 2022
rating: 5
read at: 2025/01/07
date added: 2025/01/18
shelves: adult, mc-romance, lgbt, friends-to-lovers, dark-romance
review:
I think I have a new author to be obsessed with!

This is my first MMM romance and my god, what a fabulous book! Devil's Dance is the first of two books for Cam, Alexei and Saint's story. This book only features Alexei and Cam's PoV so I'm absolutely gagging for Saint's PoV in book 2.

I've always disliked when it is obvious that the author favours one partner over the other, but Garrett Leigh has managed to find the balance between Cam, Alexei and Saint. The dynamic between Cam & Saint having always been in love but never crossing that line, Cam and Alexei's instant connection after a one night stand and Alexei and Saint's growing connection that I'm hoping will be explored/explained further in book 2. Alexei's little obsession with Saint just warmed my heart and I loved how they were both just stalking/tracking each other.

I definitely have a soft spot for Alexei but that's only because I feel like we learnt the most about him in book 1. I can see Saint joining him very quickly!

Overall, a fabulous mix of MMM romance in a MC club. The author also has me enjoying a book set in the UK, which hardly ever happens!
]]> 61291524
“I gave my darkest secrets to a man who doesn’t exist.��


Embry

"...you don’t understand.��

Mateo lowered himself to sit, still vibrating with the need to fix me, the way he always did. “Then tell me. Explain it like I’m the simplest idiot you’ve ever met.��

I can’t. I’d never told anyone. Not the judge, the jury, or the legal aid barrister who’d written me off before she’d ever met me. But as I drowned in Mateo’s affection, in a love I’d done nothing to deserve, the words came tumbling out.

Bad words.

Dark words.

Darker than sin.

Darker, even, than Mateo’s battered soul and the secrets I didn’t know about yet.

I thought those words would shatter me.

Shatter us.

But when the devil came for us, it wasn’t mine.

It was Mateo’s, and the man I’d trusted with my fragile heart was a stranger more broken than his scars could ever show.

Forgive Me Father is a continuation of the best-selling Rebel Kings MC series. Content warning for violence and sexual trauma.]]> 428 Garrett Leigh 1913220893 Luce 3
The storyline was extremely weak until we hit the halfway point, and then it felt like I flew through the rest of the book. Loved all the drama and fighting, and it hugely redeemed the book.

Mateo & Emery weren't my favourite going into this, and unfortunately this book hasn't convinced me otherwise.

But I love the writing style - the author has me hooked on this world and the 'brothers'.

Excited to start Rubi and River's book!

Book Series Ranking
1. Devil's Dance & Saint's Song - 5 stars!
2. Forgive Me Father - 3 stars!]]> 4.29 2022
author: Garrett Leigh
name: Luce
average rating: 4.29
book published: 2022
rating: 3
read at: 2025/01/09
date added: 2025/01/18
shelves: adult, friends-to-lovers, lgbt, mc-romance, dark-romance
review:
The first 50% of this book was rough and I really struggled to keep going. If we didn't have Cam, Saint and Alexei popping up throughout, I might have called it quits.

The storyline was extremely weak until we hit the halfway point, and then it felt like I flew through the rest of the book. Loved all the drama and fighting, and it hugely redeemed the book.

Mateo & Emery weren't my favourite going into this, and unfortunately this book hasn't convinced me otherwise.

But I love the writing style - the author has me hooked on this world and the 'brothers'.

Excited to start Rubi and River's book!

Book Series Ranking
1. Devil's Dance & Saint's Song - 5 stars!
2. Forgive Me Father - 3 stars!
]]> 63127229
Expect: His brother’s best friend. His best friend’s little brother. The soft-hearted bear and the rowdy chaos gremlin. The inevitable only happens when you let it.

“Riv, if you ever let me speak, you’d know exactly how I feel.��

I’ve told him that a thousand times, but River’s stubborn streak is a mile wide.

He doesn’t want to hear it.

To him, we're doomed.

Cursed.

Forbidden.

Because he thinks I love a goddamn motorcycle club more than him.

My worst nightmare is losing him before I get the chance to change his mind, and in our world, bad dreams come true. Our reality is mess and pain, but I love him. And he loves me.

And I’ll fight for us to the end.

Love Thy Brother is a hurt/comfort MM romance from the best-selling Rebel Kings MC series. Content warnings for violence, off page abuse, self-harm, and grief.]]> 438 Garrett Leigh 1913220923 Luce 4


I've been waiting for River and Rubi's story since book 1. The tension, the yearning, the angst from these two throughout this series has nearly been unbearable.

Now while I didn't love the storyline/plot, I loved the characters enough that I didn't care too much.

River really is just a chaos gremlin, and while he is quite frustrating at times, he felt like such a complicated character that I couldn't not love him. Rubi is just the golden retriever puppy that River really does treat like shit at times. And yet they work. They're complicated, annoying and weirdly loveable.

I would have loved a little bit more back story from these two, and I think a few time jumps could have helped - but thats a personal opinion!

Next up, Decoy and Folk's book!

Book Series Ranking
1. Devil's Dance & Saint's Song - 5 stars! (Alexei, Saint & Cam)
2. Love Thy Brother - 4 stars! (River & Rubi)
3. Forgive Me Father - 3 stars! (Mateo & Embry)]]> 4.27 2023
author: Garrett Leigh
name: Luce
average rating: 4.27
book published: 2023
rating: 4
read at: 2025/01/10
date added: 2025/01/18
shelves: adult, brothers-best-friend, lgbt, mc-romance, dark-romance
review:
Me every time Alexei shows up:



I've been waiting for River and Rubi's story since book 1. The tension, the yearning, the angst from these two throughout this series has nearly been unbearable.

Now while I didn't love the storyline/plot, I loved the characters enough that I didn't care too much.

River really is just a chaos gremlin, and while he is quite frustrating at times, he felt like such a complicated character that I couldn't not love him. Rubi is just the golden retriever puppy that River really does treat like shit at times. And yet they work. They're complicated, annoying and weirdly loveable.

I would have loved a little bit more back story from these two, and I think a few time jumps could have helped - but thats a personal opinion!

Next up, Decoy and Folk's book!

Book Series Ranking
1. Devil's Dance & Saint's Song - 5 stars! (Alexei, Saint & Cam)
2. Love Thy Brother - 4 stars! (River & Rubi)
3. Forgive Me Father - 3 stars! (Mateo & Embry)
]]> 123123729
The shy single dad and the gentle assassin. Domestic bliss and a bloodthirsty revenge mission battle it out in the emotional fifth instalment of the bestselling Rebel Kings MC series.

Decoy
I met a dude in a bar once. Tall and strong, he had moon-blue eyes and tawny hair, and he moved with the grace of a lion.

It didn’t pan out, but that’s a theme in my life, and I’ve spent the last five years knowing that kind stranger dodged a bullet.

Divorced and miserable, I’m not exactly a catch.

But the thing is, that man...he’s not a stranger anymore.

And he’s as beautiful as I remember.

Everything you want in a fake boyfriend, right?

Don’t ask me to explain that one. But let me tell you I thought my biggest fear was losing my daughter. Then Folk came home, and I realised you can give your heart to more than one person.

We have a second chance. Goddamn, we deserve it.

But this life, man. It’s a journey.

And there’s no guarantees we’ll both make it to the end.

Reluctant Renegade is an MM/gay biker/MC romance. Content warnings for everything you’d expect in a sizzling biker romance, in addition to divorce/custody stress, addiction, and mental health rep.]]> 470 Garrett Leigh 1916569048 Luce 5
I loved that Alexei was besties with Folk, not something I was expecting but it meant we got a lot more Alexei in this one! And we know I adore that man!

I'm so glad we had a resolution to Decoy's custody battle with his ex-wife and it was a satisfying conclusion. Folk and Decoy's fake dating plan was hilarious especially as they both knew they were very attracted to each other. Cute, dumb little babies!

Book Series Ranking:
1. Devil's Dance & Saint's Song - 5 stars! (Alexei, Saint & Cam)
2. Reluctant Renegade - 5 stars! (Folk & Decoy)
3. Love Thy Brother - 4 stars! (River & Rubi)
4. Forgive Me Father - 3 stars! (Mateo & Embry) ]]> 4.49 2023
author: Garrett Leigh
name: Luce
average rating: 4.49
book published: 2023
rating: 5
read at: 2025/01/11
date added: 2025/01/18
shelves: adult, age-gap, mc-romance, lgbt, friends-to-lovers, dark-romance
review:
Wasn't too sure what to expect going in, but I'm pleasantly surprised by this book. Decoy & Folk's story was sweet with an interesting plot.

I loved that Alexei was besties with Folk, not something I was expecting but it meant we got a lot more Alexei in this one! And we know I adore that man!

I'm so glad we had a resolution to Decoy's custody battle with his ex-wife and it was a satisfying conclusion. Folk and Decoy's fake dating plan was hilarious especially as they both knew they were very attracted to each other. Cute, dumb little babies!

Book Series Ranking:
1. Devil's Dance & Saint's Song - 5 stars! (Alexei, Saint & Cam)
2. Reluctant Renegade - 5 stars! (Folk & Decoy)
3. Love Thy Brother - 4 stars! (River & Rubi)
4. Forgive Me Father - 3 stars! (Mateo & Embry)
]]> 216860422 What happens when he’s your Romeo…but you’re no Juliet?

Romeo and I were friends long before we were lovers. Best friends. Ride or die. What started as an innocent kiss slowly unraveled and shattered, giving way to years of tears and total obsession.

Now I’m back in the small town I call home, staring straight into the face of the only man I’ve ever loved…or hated. To make matters worse, his wife stands at his side, smiling sweetly as my heart breaks all over again.

When life throws us back together, cracks quickly start to appear in the perfect façade of their marriage, and I’m left fighting the unstoppable force that is my attraction to Romeo.

My enemy.

My lover.

My life.

Some say fate is written in the stars and once something is done, it can’t be undone.

But what if that isn’t true?

If you could rewrite the stars and unbreak your heart, would you?]]> 365 Jesse H. Reign Luce 0 to-read 4.35 2024
author: Jesse H. Reign
name: Luce
average rating: 4.35
book published: 2024
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/01/18
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> 222224173 I can’t tell if we’re fighting…or flirting?

Being traded to the Seattle Vipers has left me with mixed feelings. On the one hand, they’re my team, the team I’ve loved and supported since I was a kid, but on the other hand, he’s here. Him. Ant Decker. Infamous NHL bad boy. Right wing to my left. A man who’s made it his sole purpose in life to be better than me.

Well, the joke’s on him because I’m faster and my stats are better than his.

Not that I’m competing with him. Of course not. I wouldn’t stoop to his level.

He’s the most infuriating person I’ve ever met. A dark, chaotic presence that distracts me.

When we’re not coming to blows on the ice, he tries to provoke me by calling me Princess. And Pretty Boy...and Babygirl.

I hate it. Obviously, I do. It makes me so angry I can hardly see straight.

So why does my body react as if I like it?]]> 336 Jesse H. Reign Luce 0 to-read 4.13
author: Jesse H. Reign
name: Luce
average rating: 4.13
book published:
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/01/18
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> 75556166 Falling for my kidnapper is a terrible idea.

He’s a bad man and I don’t mean trash like your ex. I mean seriously bad. I mean dangerous. You can tell just by looking at him; black eyes, a menacing scowl, and a nose that’s been badly broken in the past.

He is my arch nemesis. My mortal enemy. My singular obsession.

I was afraid of him when we met. He took me against will and kept me chained to a bed. Me, Damon Alexander Beckett of BeckIT fame and fortune. Well, the joke’s on him because I’m going to make it my life’s mission to destroy him. But first, I have to survive being his captive. He’s here all the time. Watching me. His heavy male presence never more than five feet away, dark, glinting eyes tracking down my body.

When he propositions me indecently, I am shocked and outraged. As I should be. Seriously, the audacity of him is unreal.

It’s obvious I should say no. It goes without saying. Any sane person would laugh in his face.

So why am I sinking to my knees?]]> 210 Jesse H. Reign Luce 0 to-read 4.06 2023
author: Jesse H. Reign
name: Luce
average rating: 4.06
book published: 2023
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/01/18
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> 218625593 She’s resigned to being single.
They’re on a mission to change her mind.

Ivy Noelle Winter is content with being a 31-year-old unbonded omega with no prospects of a pack. She adores teaching fifth grade, she has wonderful friends �� and that baking show marathon isn’t going to watch itself.

Until a snowstorm and power outage traps Ivy in her classroom after hours…with three men.

Rome, the new alpha music teacher.

James, the flirtatious beta vet he’s bonded to.

And Logan, the town’s grumpy alpha electrician.

Their scents call to Ivy and her body answers, setting off her first-ever mini heat. When the pheromones settle, she gets a proposition beyond her wildest dreams �� a chance to be a pack.

But there’s no such thing as a perfect courtship, especially when the biggest roadblock to happiness might be Ivy herself.

A Pack for Winter is a standalone MMFM why choose small town romance. It is part of the Cozyverse shared universe, bringing you cozy omegaverse full of heart, heat and humor.]]> 334 Eliana Lee 0645971669 Luce 0 to-read 4.07 2024
author: Eliana Lee
name: Luce
average rating: 4.07
book published: 2024
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/01/18
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> 220403174 When my wife died at the hands of my enemies, a part of me died along with her. For 10 long, agonising years, I yearned for her. Day and night. I vowed to never look in another woman’s direction again, and for those 10 years, I didn’t.
Then Autumn DeValos bulldozed into my life.
I tried to kill her. Several times. But her skills as an assassin made her one of the toughest opponents I had ever faced.
When we’re both kidnapped by the same man, and forced to work together in a fight-to-the-death, gladiator-style tournament, things change.
A side of me that had been dormant since my wife’s death arose, like a dark, angry beast demanding to be free. Demanding Autumn.
But how could I possibly allow that when I swore to remain faithful to my wife, even in death?

The Crimson Death
Dimitri Volkov, The Bratva Butcher. The man, the myth, the legend. A literal bogeyman within the organised crime syndicates, the world’s biggest asshole, and my partner for a stupid fight to the death tournament.
Joy. Not.
I tried to kill him. Several times. But a man like him doesn’t die easy. He was rude. Arrogant. Obnoxious. And the hottest man I’d ever met in my life. Not that I would ever tell him that.
Somewhere in the middle of all the arguing and attempted murder, things slowly began to change between us, and I saw a side to him I never knew existed.
We connected, despite the fact that neither of us wanted too.
But none of it mattered.
Dimitri Volkov would only ever love one woman in his life, and it wasn’t me.]]> 499 T.J. Maguire Luce 0 to-read 4.08
author: T.J. Maguire
name: Luce
average rating: 4.08
book published:
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/01/18
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> 207670238
“What is it you think you’re protecting in that brain of yours? The war is over. Holdfast is dead. The Eternal Flame extinguished. There’s no one left for you to save.��

Once a promising alchemist, Helena Marino is now a prisoner—of war and of her own mind. Her Resistance friends and allies have been brutally murdered, her abilities suppressed, and the world she knew destroyed.

In the aftermath of a long war, Paladia’s new ruling class of corrupt guild families and depraved necromancers, whose vile, undead creatures helped bring about their victory, holds Helena captive.

According to Resistance records, she was a healer of little importance within their ranks. But Helena has inexplicable memory loss of the months leading up to her capture, making her enemies wonder: Is she truly as insignificant as she appears, or are her lost memories hiding some vital piece of the Resistance’s final gambit?

To uncover the memories buried deep within her mind, Helena is sent to the High Reeve, one of the most powerful and ruthless necromancers in this new world. Trapped on his crumbling estate, Helena’s fight—to protect her lost history and to preserve the last remaining shreds of her former self—is just beginning. For her prison and captor have secrets of their own . . . secrets Helena must unearth, whatever the cost.]]> 976 SenLinYu Luce 0 to-read 4.73 2025
author: SenLinYu
name: Luce
average rating: 4.73
book published: 2025
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/01/17
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> 57993563
My awakening? Never gonna happen. Heat, mates, and a fairytale pack life? Maybe next reincarnation.

All I want is to be left alone.

I’m invisible, headed to a blissful solo future until the Wyvern Pack destroys my dream of independence.

Atlas, Hunter, Finn, Jett, and Orion are poison candy. They don’t want an omega, but they need one, even if there’ll never be a real spot for me in their pack.

Who needs a pack? I’ll keep myself safe, same as always.

I’ll never awaken, and I’ll never ever give the Wyverns my heart�� Because all they’ll do is rip me apart.

�˥Pack Darling is book one in a reverse harem duology featuring an MMFMMM relationship, cursing, and MM scenes. It’s a human omegaverse featuring growly alpha males but no shifters or shifting.]]> 350 Lola Rock 1943858845 Luce 5

Ya girl is dipping her toe into the omega verse.

So I thought I'd start with an MMFMMM.

Great storyline, characters and I didn't find it cringey.

Excited to start Part II. ]]> 4.10 2021
author: Lola Rock
name: Luce
average rating: 4.10
book published: 2021
rating: 5
read at: 2025/01/17
date added: 2025/01/17
shelves: adult, why-choose, omega-verse, paranormal
review:


Ya girl is dipping her toe into the omega verse.

So I thought I'd start with an MMFMMM.

Great storyline, characters and I didn't find it cringey.

Excited to start Part II.
]]> 221748978 What do you do when your only way out is to join a family you never knew existed?

I’m not well behaved, that’s a given. But meeting the Vitale’s puts my life into perspective. They’re everything I’ve longed for; rich, adventurous, fearless, and close. Really close.

This is supposed to be my family too.

So why do I feel like an outsider?

I have no choice except to fit in because I can’t go back home. Not when I’m on the run��

Amidst the chaos of a cooling war, a family struggle, and the law nipping at my heels, I meet Quincy. Bold, crazy, and hot as a five alarm fire.This man is the grand red flag of all red flags, but then again so am I.

And I’ve always loved to play with fire.


The fifth book in the Vitale Brothers series. Each book can be read as a standalone but is best read in order. HEA guaranteed. Make sure to check out the TWs.]]> 393 Brea Alepoú Luce 3
Quincy, who was full of chaotic charm early on in the book, seemed to completely lose his entire personality by the end. Blake was just an inconsistent character and I never knew where I sat with either of them, and not in a fun way.

The plot was... non-existent.

I found the family dynamic weak, and I missed Enzo and Tex in this one! They barely featured!!! However, I do love the brother's "wifes" group chat.

Overall, one of the weakest books of the series but still enjoyed it more than Benito and Harlow's book, although that would have changed if it was any longer.

Favourite Couple:
1. Enzo x Tex (Book 1)
2. Gianpaulo x York (Book 4)
3. Giancarlo x Ash (Book 2)
4. Quincy x Blake (Book 5)
5. Benito x Harlow (Book 3)

Favourite Book :
1. Never Say Never (Book 4)
2. Take Me Apart (Book 1)
3. Paid in Full (Book 2)
4. End It All (Book 5)
5. Say I Do (Book 3)]]> 4.13
author: Brea Alepoú
name: Luce
average rating: 4.13
book published:
rating: 3
read at: 2025/01/13
date added: 2025/01/16
shelves: lgbt, adult, dark-romance, mafia-romance
review:
I'm sorry, this book was a hot mess!

Quincy, who was full of chaotic charm early on in the book, seemed to completely lose his entire personality by the end. Blake was just an inconsistent character and I never knew where I sat with either of them, and not in a fun way.

The plot was... non-existent.

I found the family dynamic weak, and I missed Enzo and Tex in this one! They barely featured!!! However, I do love the brother's "wifes" group chat.

Overall, one of the weakest books of the series but still enjoyed it more than Benito and Harlow's book, although that would have changed if it was any longer.

Favourite Couple:
1. Enzo x Tex (Book 1)
2. Gianpaulo x York (Book 4)
3. Giancarlo x Ash (Book 2)
4. Quincy x Blake (Book 5)
5. Benito x Harlow (Book 3)

Favourite Book :
1. Never Say Never (Book 4)
2. Take Me Apart (Book 1)
3. Paid in Full (Book 2)
4. End It All (Book 5)
5. Say I Do (Book 3)
]]> 211223630
Jameson King.

In order to keep me safe, he handed me a ring and told me I’d become his wife. It’s a marriage made of convenience, but there’s a thread of truth neither of us want to examine. The past we’re ignoring, the almost we could have had if our lives were different.

If I hadn’t chosen wrong.

I keep trying to convince myself it doesn’t matter, not when we hold hands, or sleep in the same bed. Because Jameson has always held me at arms length, and my ex is coming for me…we’re just biding our time before this all comes to a messy end.

This is where we promise to hold, to honor and cherish…but what are vows made from lies?

Jameson will stay long enough to ensure I’m safe, and then he’ll let me go, just like he always did before.]]> 302 Ashley Munoz Luce 1 A judgemental & hypocritical FMC: -1 star
Pregnant with the MMC's best friend's child: -1 star
A FMC who makes stupid decisions consistently -1star

I was over this book very quickly. ]]> 3.94
author: Ashley Munoz
name: Luce
average rating: 3.94
book published:
rating: 1
read at: 2025/01/15
date added: 2025/01/15
shelves: adult, contemporary-romance, mc-romance
review:
Pregnancy trope: -1 star
A judgemental & hypocritical FMC: -1 star
Pregnant with the MMC's best friend's child: -1 star
A FMC who makes stupid decisions consistently -1star

I was over this book very quickly.
]]> 199457242 316 Ashley Munoz Luce 3
I didn't particularly the flashbacks because I went from being angry with our MMC, then our FMC, then back to the MMC and then just mildly confused for the rest of the book.

The ending felt a little rushed but otherwise, a fairly enjoyable and easy-going MC romance. ]]> 3.91 2023
author: Ashley Munoz
name: Luce
average rating: 3.91
book published: 2023
rating: 3
read at: 2025/01/14
date added: 2025/01/15
shelves: adult, contemporary-romance, friends-to-lovers, mc-romance
review:
Okay, this was actually a surprisingly enjoyable friends-to-lovers.

I didn't particularly the flashbacks because I went from being angry with our MMC, then our FMC, then back to the MMC and then just mildly confused for the rest of the book.

The ending felt a little rushed but otherwise, a fairly enjoyable and easy-going MC romance.
]]> 197909289
Sent into their home disguised as a Sweetheart—a beta companion for aggressive alphas without an omega—I’m forced to keep my status secret until they fall for me, or until my heat arrives. But I grew up obsessed with the Crimson Fury Pack; they aren’t just smoking hot celebrity actors, they’re kind and generous. I know I can convince them to save me.

Only, once in their home, I learn all too fast that my mates are nothing like they appear in interviews and magazines��

What will they do when they learn the truth about the beta Sweetheart in their home...? This is a bully omegaverse, MFMMM why choose with dark themes. HEA guaranteed. Estimated launch date in September. This is part one of a duet with a cliffhanger and the second part will be released soon after (the goal of no more than two months between)]]> 452 Marie Mackay Luce 1 I just don’t care. 3.93 2023
author: Marie Mackay
name: Luce
average rating: 3.93
book published: 2023
rating: 1
read at: 2025/01/12
date added: 2025/01/12
shelves: adult, dark-romance, dnf, enemies-to-lovers, omega-verse, why-choose
review:
I just don’t care.
]]> 212472603
In the land of the unforgiving desert, there isn't much a girl wouldn't do for a glass of water.

Twenty-four-year-old Saeris Fane is good at keeping secrets. No one knows about the strange powers she possesses, or the fact that she has been picking pockets and stealing from the Undying Queen's reservoirs for as long as she can remember.

But a secret is like a knot. Sooner or later, it is bound to come undone.

When Saeris comes face-to-face with Death himself, she inadvertently re-opens a gateway between realms and is transported to a land of ice and snow. The Fae have always been the stuff of myth, of legend, of nightmares... but it turns out they're real, and Saeris has landed herself in the middle of a centuries-long conflict that might just get her killed.

The first of her kind to tread the frozen mountains of Yvelia in over a thousand years, Saeris mistakenly binds herself to Kingfisher, a handsome Fae warrior, who has secrets and nefarious agendas of his own. He will use her Alchemist's magic to protect his people, no matter what it costs him . . . or her.

Death has a name. It is Kingfisher of the Ajun Gate. His past is murky. His attitude stinks. And he's the only way Saeris is going to make it home.]]> 624 Callie Hart Luce 5
Me reading this book:



The first 10% of this book is rough and has quite a few inconsistencies that beta-readers should have picked up on. The book is also fairly predictable although there are definitely a few surprises along the way.

However, when Saeris enters the fae world and we officially meet Kingfisher. I WAS HOOKED. Kingfisher is a mystery for the majority of this book and a huge arsehole, yet he was easily my favourite character alongside Carrion.

Everlayne had been waiting for when I returned to my room yesterday. She hadn't banked on Kingfisher kicking in my bedroom door, me thrown over his shoulder like a sack of potatoes and wailing like a banshee. Nor had she expected his ultra-foul temper, his split bottom lip, or the thin line of blood trickling down his chin. She'd squawked when he'd thrown me unceremoniously down onto my bed and snarled, "Bad human," at me.

Their relationship at the start was hilarious, although Saeris' comebacks were embarrassing and slightly cringey. They were just like two children bickering half the time.

"It's Saeris. My name. Call me that or nothing at all."
He cast an amused look over his shoulder, his lips parted a fraction, exposing the briefest glimpse of teeth. "Nothing at all? I like the sound of that. Come here and look at this, Nothing At All."

"Ow! It's almost down to the bone, Fisher. Help me!" Kingfisher pushed away from the sword, standing up straight. He looked up at the rafters overhead, squinting. "This is a learning experience, I think. There are always consequences to our actions. Your furry new bracelet is a consequence of human weakness. Wear it with pride."

Also, Kingfisher had some of the best lines!

"Pants and a shirt," I said dryly. "And a pair of boots with really good soles. Do you have any idea what those boots cost me?"
"Let me guess. Your virginity?"
"Fuck you, Fisher."
"Sure." He smirked. "But I'm afraid I don't have any new boots to trade you for your time"

I also loved the side characters, particularly Carrion who provided much needed comedy without stealing the show!

"You're late," Fisher said in an icy tone. "And please enlighten me. Why have you invited half of the household along for a meeting that was supposed to be for just the two of us?"
"Meeting? I thought this was dinner. And how would it fair for me to enjoy the pleasure of your company while these two miss out?"
Carrion held up a hand. "I'd prefer not to be here, actually."
"Sit the fuck down," I hissed.
"All right. Gods."

If you're expecting a well-written romantasy then this definitely is not the book for you. But if you're here for the vibes, I'd highly recommend Quicksilver. I had such a good time reading this book and I'm excited for book 2!]]> 4.54 2024
author: Callie Hart
name: Luce
average rating: 4.54
book published: 2024
rating: 5
read at: 2024/07/27
date added: 2025/01/11
shelves: adult, romantasy, enemies-to-lovers
review:
Make no mistake, just because I rated it 5 stars doesn't mean I think it's good. I just love trash!

Me reading this book:



The first 10% of this book is rough and has quite a few inconsistencies that beta-readers should have picked up on. The book is also fairly predictable although there are definitely a few surprises along the way.

However, when Saeris enters the fae world and we officially meet Kingfisher. I WAS HOOKED. Kingfisher is a mystery for the majority of this book and a huge arsehole, yet he was easily my favourite character alongside Carrion.

Everlayne had been waiting for when I returned to my room yesterday. She hadn't banked on Kingfisher kicking in my bedroom door, me thrown over his shoulder like a sack of potatoes and wailing like a banshee. Nor had she expected his ultra-foul temper, his split bottom lip, or the thin line of blood trickling down his chin. She'd squawked when he'd thrown me unceremoniously down onto my bed and snarled, "Bad human," at me.

Their relationship at the start was hilarious, although Saeris' comebacks were embarrassing and slightly cringey. They were just like two children bickering half the time.

"It's Saeris. My name. Call me that or nothing at all."
He cast an amused look over his shoulder, his lips parted a fraction, exposing the briefest glimpse of teeth. "Nothing at all? I like the sound of that. Come here and look at this, Nothing At All."

"Ow! It's almost down to the bone, Fisher. Help me!" Kingfisher pushed away from the sword, standing up straight. He looked up at the rafters overhead, squinting. "This is a learning experience, I think. There are always consequences to our actions. Your furry new bracelet is a consequence of human weakness. Wear it with pride."

Also, Kingfisher had some of the best lines!

"Pants and a shirt," I said dryly. "And a pair of boots with really good soles. Do you have any idea what those boots cost me?"
"Let me guess. Your virginity?"
"Fuck you, Fisher."
"Sure." He smirked. "But I'm afraid I don't have any new boots to trade you for your time"

I also loved the side characters, particularly Carrion who provided much needed comedy without stealing the show!

"You're late," Fisher said in an icy tone. "And please enlighten me. Why have you invited half of the household along for a meeting that was supposed to be for just the two of us?"
"Meeting? I thought this was dinner. And how would it fair for me to enjoy the pleasure of your company while these two miss out?"
Carrion held up a hand. "I'd prefer not to be here, actually."
"Sit the fuck down," I hissed.
"All right. Gods."

If you're expecting a well-written romantasy then this definitely is not the book for you. But if you're here for the vibes, I'd highly recommend Quicksilver. I had such a good time reading this book and I'm excited for book 2!
]]> 209795162
As a chart-topping country singer with a recent streak of bad press it’s hard to find any peace. But I find it in Rose Hill. With a little boy and a little girl who steal my heart just as thoroughly as their dad.

Weston Belmont.

The man is a shameless flirt. He oozes confidence and masculinity in a way that’s downright distracting. And in bed? He’s addictive.

Everything with him is wild and impulsive and I’m desperate to regain some control.

But no one has supported me like West does. And no one has ever made me feel as loved as he does either.

So, while my brain says settling down with a small-town horse trainer is impossible�� my heart says I’m right where I belong.

Still, my life as a celebrity haunts me. It has the power to pull us apart.

I can see in his eyes that wants me to stay. And I want that too.

But I know better than anyone that we don’t always get what we want.]]> 400 Elsie Silver 0349441650 Luce 5
However, Skylar is an FMC that you slowly fall in love with and by the end I felt so connected to her. She deserved the world's biggest hug!

West was an excellent MMC and he's tied with Ford in the Rose Hill Series. His dirty mouth was PERFECION. Daddy Cade and Cole, your positions remain safe as Elsie Silvers Top MMC's (didn't doubt you for a moment).

The storyline wasn't my favourite but Skylar and West were such fun characters I honestly didn't mind.

Hugely excited for the next book in this series. I know Rhys is going to deliver all the daddy vibes .

Fave Book in the Series :
1. Wild Eyes (5 Stars)
2. Wild Love (5 Stars)]]> 4.34 2024
author: Elsie Silver
name: Luce
average rating: 4.34
book published: 2024
rating: 5
read at: 2024/09/04
date added: 2025/01/10
shelves: adult, contemporary-romance, single-dad-romance, small-town-romance
review:
I won't lie, the first 50 pages of this book had me worried. I wasn't immediately hooked and I wasn't loving Skylar as our FMC.

However, Skylar is an FMC that you slowly fall in love with and by the end I felt so connected to her. She deserved the world's biggest hug!

West was an excellent MMC and he's tied with Ford in the Rose Hill Series. His dirty mouth was PERFECION. Daddy Cade and Cole, your positions remain safe as Elsie Silvers Top MMC's (didn't doubt you for a moment).

The storyline wasn't my favourite but Skylar and West were such fun characters I honestly didn't mind.

Hugely excited for the next book in this series. I know Rhys is going to deliver all the daddy vibes .

Fave Book in the Series :
1. Wild Eyes (5 Stars)
2. Wild Love (5 Stars)
]]> 31299108
Just like riding my bike, the freedom I get from deciding if one night should turn into two, or if a number should be deleted altogether, is thrilling.

I've never been dishonest about what my expectations are.

What's new for me is being the one ghosted.

So imagine my surprise when the girl who decided I wasn't enough shows up on my doorstep burdened with the consequences of her own lies and deceit.]]> 206 Marie James Luce 1
Our FMC's parents threaten to disown her if she doesn't get an abortion. At the clinic, Misty speaks to a woman who is on her 5th or 6th abortion, because of course she's lost count at this point and then jokes that your 8th abortion is free.

In the doctor's room, a nurse hints at going against medical procedure to get everything done as quick as possible and then the doctor comes in and is a complete douchebag which has Misty running and deciding to keep the baby.

Also, the pregnancy trope in this book is painful. PAINFUL. Girlie lies about being on birth control because she can't resist the MMC... I--. No. Always wrap it before you tap it, folks. STD's exist.

Unfortunately, the lack of sensitivity, research and anti-abortion rhetoric means I'm out.]]> 4.34 2016
author: Marie James
name: Luce
average rating: 4.34
book published: 2016
rating: 1
read at: 2025/01/06
date added: 2025/01/06
shelves: adult, age-gap, contemporary-romance, dnf, mc-romance, pregnancy-trope
review:
Don't you just love it when an author makes their stance around abortion clear by portraying it so incorrectly, full of harmful stereotypes with no research or sensitivity.

Our FMC's parents threaten to disown her if she doesn't get an abortion. At the clinic, Misty speaks to a woman who is on her 5th or 6th abortion, because of course she's lost count at this point and then jokes that your 8th abortion is free.

In the doctor's room, a nurse hints at going against medical procedure to get everything done as quick as possible and then the doctor comes in and is a complete douchebag which has Misty running and deciding to keep the baby.

Also, the pregnancy trope in this book is painful. PAINFUL. Girlie lies about being on birth control because she can't resist the MMC... I--. No. Always wrap it before you tap it, folks. STD's exist.

Unfortunately, the lack of sensitivity, research and anti-abortion rhetoric means I'm out.
]]> 30311922
The day we met she downed a bottle of pills and tried to jump off a bridge.

Not exactly the love story you want to tell your grandchildren, is it?

I could go into detail. Give you the nitty gritty, but I'm worried that the details won't matter when you find out just how badly I messed everything up...]]> 230 Marie James Luce 3
Chloe is also a very unlikeable FMC and Kid wasn't much better. I really couldn't see the chemistry between them.

Loved seeing Kincaid and Emmalyn!

But I am in my trashy MC era so onto book 3...

Book Series Ranking :
1. Kincaid (Book 1) - 3 stars
2. Kid (Book 2) - 2.5 stars]]> 4.23 2016
author: Marie James
name: Luce
average rating: 4.23
book published: 2016
rating: 3
read at: 2025/01/05
date added: 2025/01/05
shelves: adult, age-gap, contemporary-romance, mc-romance
review:
Enjoyed the plot of this one a little more than book 1 but ultimately, the obsession Kid has with an underaged girl was just a bit too much for me. The attempted suicide plot line (FMC) felt unnecessary and was quickly dropped.

Chloe is also a very unlikeable FMC and Kid wasn't much better. I really couldn't see the chemistry between them.

Loved seeing Kincaid and Emmalyn!

But I am in my trashy MC era so onto book 3...

Book Series Ranking :
1. Kincaid (Book 1) - 3 stars
2. Kid (Book 2) - 2.5 stars
]]> 42146066 Possessive?
Not afraid to speak my mind?

Check, check, and check.


I'm also President of the Cerberus MC, a former Marine, and easy on the eyes with arms made to hold a woman tight. I'm the whole package.


I'm not conceited; I'm convinced, and Emmalyn Mikaelson doesn't have a clue what she's gotten herself into by jumping on the back of my bike. Special Forces.]]> Marie James Luce 3
Considering this book is just over 200 pages, I found for the most part that it was well-written with a decent plot line and characters.

Is it the best thing I've ever read? Definitely not. Is it the best MC romance I've ever read? No.

But I had a good time with it and I'm interested enough to keep reading.

I did find the domestic violence (FMC's ex-husband) was more of a side thought rather than a flushed out plot line. Whilst the FMC did show issues of trust, particularly around men, it felt a little superficial and something like this needed to be handled with the sensitivity it requires.

Overall, trashy but interesting enough to keep me reading the series!

And this series has 31 books... *stretches*
]]> 3.92 2016
author: Marie James
name: Luce
average rating: 3.92
book published: 2016
rating: 3
read at: 2025/01/05
date added: 2025/01/05
shelves: adult, contemporary-romance, mc-romance
review:
I've entered my MC Romance era... and it's about to get real trashy in here.

Considering this book is just over 200 pages, I found for the most part that it was well-written with a decent plot line and characters.

Is it the best thing I've ever read? Definitely not. Is it the best MC romance I've ever read? No.

But I had a good time with it and I'm interested enough to keep reading.

I did find the domestic violence (FMC's ex-husband) was more of a side thought rather than a flushed out plot line. Whilst the FMC did show issues of trust, particularly around men, it felt a little superficial and something like this needed to be handled with the sensitivity it requires.

Overall, trashy but interesting enough to keep me reading the series!

And this series has 31 books... *stretches*

]]> 61927263 All Delora ever wanted was to disappear.

Thrown into the Veil for a crime she committed, Delora was discarded by the world. Although afraid of her oncoming demise, she accepts it as it would be a worldly escape from her problems. She didn’t expect that she would wake up from her deadly fall, nor that the person who saved her would be a Duskwalker.

She’s wary about him at first, but Delora begins to realise there’s more to him than just a faceless monster.

All he ever wanted was a name.

After discovering that humans can be kept as companions, he begins planning for the day he finds his own bride. He still lacks humanity and there is much learn first. One morning when leaving his cave, a human suddenly crashes into him from the sky. Broken and sleeping, he gets to work on healing the woman.

It doesn’t take him long to understand she’s wounded in a way his magic can’t heal.

But will he be able to gain her affections, or will she come to hate him as he stumbles his way through learning about her �� and more importantly, himself?]]> 556 Opal Reyne 0645510440 Luce 2
I was not expecting this to be so incredibly boring which is a shock when I loved the MMC from the first page. He was so stupid and loveable but the FMC Delora was just whiny and miserable. I wanted to feel for her but honestly, she was just frustratingly selfish.

The plot was bland and Opal Reyne didn't really build upon the world following book 1.

And the book features my least favourite trope, the pregnancy trope. PASS.

Not sure if I'll continue with this series... especially as the rest of the series doesn't have an audible option and I'm not punishing my eyes anymore.]]> 3.94 2022
author: Opal Reyne
name: Luce
average rating: 3.94
book published: 2022
rating: 2
read at: 2025/01/04
date added: 2025/01/04
shelves: adult, age-gap, monster, pregnancy-trope
review:
WELL...

I was not expecting this to be so incredibly boring which is a shock when I loved the MMC from the first page. He was so stupid and loveable but the FMC Delora was just whiny and miserable. I wanted to feel for her but honestly, she was just frustratingly selfish.

The plot was bland and Opal Reyne didn't really build upon the world following book 1.

And the book features my least favourite trope, the pregnancy trope. PASS.

Not sure if I'll continue with this series... especially as the rest of the series doesn't have an audible option and I'm not punishing my eyes anymore.
]]> 199901720
How to make the handsome, brooding man across the street notice me.

Step one: Deliver baked goods to his front porch, even though he never answers his door and always returns the containers when I'm not home.

Step two: Slowly lose my mind as a whole year passes without ever running into him, no matter how hard I try.

Step three: Have my boudoir photos accidentally delivered to his mailbox instead of mine. Have him open the package. Then have him storm into my home for the most panty-melting scolding of my life.

Step four: Still figuring out step four.

HANS

I'm a dangerous man.

A man who has spent the last two decades removing so many souls from this earth that it's a miracle my hands aren't permanently stained red.

I'm a man who belongs in the shadows.

I certainly don't belong in my pretty little neighbor's bedroom when she's not home, touching her things and inhaling her scent.

I shouldn't follow her. Shouldn't watch her. Because no number of cookies on my doorstep will change the fact that love isn't an option for me.

The only option left for me is violence.]]> 432 S.J. Tilly Luce 5
Hans is OBSESSED with Cassie. OBSESSED. Hilariously obsessed. Man was shoving horrible cookies down his throat because he didn't want anyone else eating Cassie's food.

He was debating sniffing her shoes and licking the crumbs of her plate. OBSESSED.

A great mafia series!

Series Ranking
1. King - Book 2 (4.5 stars)
2. Dom - Book 3 (4.5 stars)
3. Hans - Book 4( 4.5 stars)
3. Nero - Book 1 (3 stars)]]> 4.28
author: S.J. Tilly
name: Luce
average rating: 4.28
book published:
rating: 5
read at: 2025/01/03
date added: 2025/01/03
shelves: adult, age-gap, dark-romance, mafia-romance
review:
What a fabulous end to the Alliance Series!

Hans is OBSESSED with Cassie. OBSESSED. Hilariously obsessed. Man was shoving horrible cookies down his throat because he didn't want anyone else eating Cassie's food.

He was debating sniffing her shoes and licking the crumbs of her plate. OBSESSED.

A great mafia series!

Series Ranking
1. King - Book 2 (4.5 stars)
2. Dom - Book 3 (4.5 stars)
3. Hans - Book 4( 4.5 stars)
3. Nero - Book 1 (3 stars)
]]> 193557064
When I was nine, I went to my first funeral. Along with accepting my father's death, I had to accept new and awful truths I wasn't prepared for.

When I was nineteen, I went to my mother's funeral. We weren't close, but with her gone, I became more alone than ever before.

Sure, I have a half-brother who runs The Alliance. And yeah, he's given me his protection �� in the form of a bodyguard and chauffeur. But I don't have anyone that really knows me. No one to really love me.

Until I meet him. The man in the airport.

And when one chance meeting turns into something hotter, something more serious, I let myself believe that maybe he's the one. Maybe this man is the one who will finally save me from my loneliness. The one to give me the family I've always craved.

DOM

The Mafia is in my blood. It's what I do.

So when that blood is spilled and one funeral turns into three, drastic measures need to be taken.

And when this battle turns into a war, I'm going to need more men. More power.

I'm going to need The Alliance.

And I'll become a member. By any means necessary.]]> 474 S.J. Tilly 1962096009 Luce 5
He did so many things that usually would be red flags and a huge no for me; drugged and married his wife, drugged and forcibly tattooed her, swapped out her birth control with fake pills. But I couldn't help but love Dom.

Val was such a relatable FMC and I fully adored this book!

Series Ranking
1. King - Book 2 (4.5 stars)
2. Dom - Book 3 (4.5 stars)
3. Nero - Book 1 (3 stars)]]> 4.28 2023
author: S.J. Tilly
name: Luce
average rating: 4.28
book published: 2023
rating: 5
read at: 2025/01/02
date added: 2025/01/03
shelves: adult, age-gap, dark-romance, mafia-romance
review:
Dom is intense and crazy... and I loved it.

He did so many things that usually would be red flags and a huge no for me; drugged and married his wife, drugged and forcibly tattooed her, swapped out her birth control with fake pills. But I couldn't help but love Dom.

Val was such a relatable FMC and I fully adored this book!

Series Ranking
1. King - Book 2 (4.5 stars)
2. Dom - Book 3 (4.5 stars)
3. Nero - Book 1 (3 stars)
]]> 221979619 Callahan

Fighting wildfires is the only thing I’ve ever wanted to do and I’m damn good at it. Being the captain of an interagency hotshot crew of wildland firefighters is high-risk, high-reward. The risk blindsided me five years ago when I lost one of my crew and was changed forever. Now the only rewards I allow are to work harder, smarter, and enjoy easy, sexy nights with strangers.

Until I meet Prescott Timmons. Her smart-mouth and adventurous spirit have me forgetting all of my rules—until her past shows up and lies start to feel too familiar. I swear to never spare her a second glance, but when she finds herself in a life or death situation with mother nature, my instincts kick in, and I take action. Stranded and sharing a bed again, we’re forced to face our truth. Do we let this fire burn out or fight?]]> 379 Sloane St. James Luce 0 to-read 3.91 2025
author: Sloane St. James
name: Luce
average rating: 3.91
book published: 2025
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/01/03
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> 22371417
Twenty-one year old Ember flees her past with soot on her face, ash in her hair, and a promise. She’ll never let another man take away her freedom and treat her like she means nothing.

But that is exactly what Maverick Gunn, leader of the notorious Harbinger’s of Chaos Motorcycle Club seeks to do from the moment his lethal gaze locks on her. He burns her with every look. Every touch. Every word.

Ember’s only hope is to convince him she’s nothing like the woman who blackened his soul before he drags her down into the darkness with him.]]> 438 Darby Briar 0996655328 Luce 0 to-read 4.14 2015
author: Darby Briar
name: Luce
average rating: 4.14
book published: 2015
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/01/01
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> 58107402 I was just a boy when the monsters rose on earth, forcing humans to flee to the coastlines and live in cramped, dirty, military-controlled cities. I enlisted as soon as I could to escape.

Now, I’ve been in the military for twelve years and have the scars—and missing body parts—to prove it. As a hardened soldier who’s spent his fair share of time out in the Wastes—the dangerous place where monsters roam free—I didn’t think anything could surprise me anymore.

But then circumstance forced me together with a big, annoying purple monster who’s arrogant and bossy and pushes all my buttons in the worst—and best—ways. I need his help, and I hate needing anyone’s help. But the more time I spend with him, the more I realise that maybe there’s more from him that I need. And that he might need things from me too.

But I’m still a soldier. I still have responsibilities. It doesn’t matter how I feel about Edin, because we can’t be together. It’s too dangerous.

That doesn’t stop me wanting him, though.

Edin is Book Two of the Monstrous series, a post-apocalyptic m/m fantasy series that focuses on monsters and human men falling in love. It is best to read the series in order. Warning: This m/m love story contains explicit content and is not suitable for young readers. It also contains graphic depictions of torture and violence, and mentions PTSD.]]> 410 Lily Mayne Luce 5
I love Edin. I love Hunter. I loved this book.

The plot wasn't the best but I loved the characters so much I didn't care.

I loved Danny and Wyn (Book 1) meeting up with Edin & Hunter and helping with the rescue mission.. They were just as adorable as they were in their own book. And Hunter's dislike of Wyn was quite amusing.

Excited to continue this series.

And my first book of 2025 is a (rounded-up) 5 stars!

Book Series Ranking:
1. Edin (Book 2) - 4.5 stars!
2. Soul Eater (Book 1) - 4 stars!]]> 4.24 2021
author: Lily Mayne
name: Luce
average rating: 4.24
book published: 2021
rating: 5
read at: 2025/01/01
date added: 2025/01/01
shelves: adult, age-gap, dystopian, grumpy-sunshine, monster
review:
A giant purple cinnamon roll monster x a grumpy soldier on a rescue mission... ABSOFUCKINGLUTELY.

I love Edin. I love Hunter. I loved this book.

The plot wasn't the best but I loved the characters so much I didn't care.

I loved Danny and Wyn (Book 1) meeting up with Edin & Hunter and helping with the rescue mission.. They were just as adorable as they were in their own book. And Hunter's dislike of Wyn was quite amusing.

Excited to continue this series.

And my first book of 2025 is a (rounded-up) 5 stars!

Book Series Ranking:
1. Edin (Book 2) - 4.5 stars!
2. Soul Eater (Book 1) - 4 stars!
]]> 213243908 A hopeless romantic meets a jaded radio host in this cozy, Sleepless in Seattle-inspired love story from beloved author B.K. Borison.

Aiden Valentine has a secret: he's fallen out of love with love. And as the host of Baltimore's romance hotline, that's a bit of a problem. But when a young girl calls in to the station asking for dating advice for her mom, the interview goes viral, thrusting Aiden and Heartstrings into the limelight.

Lucie Stone thought she was doing just fine. She has a good job; an incredible family; and a smart, slightly devious kid. But when all of Baltimore is suddenly scrutinizing her love life-or lack thereof—she begins to question if she's as happy as she thought. Maybe a little more romance wouldn't be such a bad thing.

Everyone wants Lucie to find her happy ending... even the handsome, temperamental man calling the shots. But when sparks start to fly behind the scenes, Lucie must make the final call between the radio-sponsored happily ever after or the man in the headphones next to her.]]> 448 B.K. Borison 0593641191 Luce 5
This is easily B.K. Borison's best book BY FARRRRRR - the writing, the unique plot and the relatable characters. She absolutely nailed it!

The book has a bit of a slow start but I loved the build-up and getting to know our two characters - Aiden and Lucie. Grumpy x sunshine and I adored both of them so much!

B.K. Borison absolutely nailed the feeling of being a single woman who is fed-up of online dating. Lucie’s feelings were so real and it had me rooting for her from the first few chapters. Aiden also had his emotional moments and the scene between him and his dad absolutely broke my heart, and had me sobbing quietly into my sleeve.

I'm incredibly excited to see where the author plans to take this series, because she's left it with a lot of potential!

I received an advanced copy for free through NetGalley, and I am leaving this review voluntarily. ]]> 4.08 2025
author: B.K. Borison
name: Luce
average rating: 4.08
book published: 2025
rating: 5
read at: 2024/12/30
date added: 2024/12/31
shelves: adult, contemporary-romance, grumpy-sunshine, slow-burn, work-place-romance
review:
My last book of 2025, and my 300th book of the year!

This is easily B.K. Borison's best book BY FARRRRRR - the writing, the unique plot and the relatable characters. She absolutely nailed it!

The book has a bit of a slow start but I loved the build-up and getting to know our two characters - Aiden and Lucie. Grumpy x sunshine and I adored both of them so much!

B.K. Borison absolutely nailed the feeling of being a single woman who is fed-up of online dating. Lucie’s feelings were so real and it had me rooting for her from the first few chapters. Aiden also had his emotional moments and the scene between him and his dad absolutely broke my heart, and had me sobbing quietly into my sleeve.

I'm incredibly excited to see where the author plans to take this series, because she's left it with a lot of potential!

I received an advanced copy for free through NetGalley, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
]]> 36298435
That’s Tomahawk for you.

We rank people based on just how crazy they are. And the four craziest families in town are called the Wild Ones.
I’m on the bottom tier of those, so technically I’m not as crazy as the other Wild Ones. In fact, if it wasn’t for my brothers and their endless antics, I wouldn’t be considered a Wild One at all. Ahem. Sure. We’ll go with that.

Anyway, I have a best friend who endures it all with me. Benson Nolans is my one, constant favorite person.
Without him, I’d probably go really crazy, and not the fun kind. It’d be ridiculous, after three years of a flawless friendship, to mess that all up by falling for him.

I mean, even if we did get a little too close one night, it’d be reckless endangerment. Even if we did suddenly feel the chemistry that’s always been there and stop toeing the line, it’d be a foolish risk to take.

It’d be stupid to start hoping a really fun, but completely irrational, night with zero inhibitions might accidentally happen.
Really stupid��

Right?

*NO cliffhanger
*Stand-alone book
*Sexual Content
*Adult language
*Completely, 100% crazy]]> 218 C.M. Owens 1976236541 Luce 3
Not my favourite from the author of the Mindf*ck series but still a fun read!]]> 4.33 2017
author: C.M. Owens
name: Luce
average rating: 4.33
book published: 2017
rating: 3
read at: 2024/12/29
date added: 2024/12/30
shelves: adult, contemporary-romance, friends-to-lovers, small-town-romance
review:
This book is pure silliness with a little bit of cringe but weirdly, hugely enjoyable.

Not my favourite from the author of the Mindf*ck series but still a fun read!
]]> 75572077
I fell in love with Beckett when I was 7.

He broke my heart when I was 15.

When I was 18, I promised myself I’d forget about him.

And I did. For a dozen years.

But now he’s back home. Here. In Darling Lake. And I don’t know if I should give in to the temptation swirling between us or run the other way.

- Beckett -

She had a crush on me when she was a kid. But she was my brother’s best friend’s little sister. I didn’t see her like that. And even if I had, she was too young. Our age difference was too great.

But now I’m back home. And she’s here. And she’s all the way grown up.

It wouldn’t have worked back then. But I’ll be damned if I won’t get a taste of her now.]]> 350 S.J. Tilly Luce 3
Noted.

This book has no tension, yearning or any relationship development. Continue at your own risk. ]]> 3.90
author: S.J. Tilly
name: Luce
average rating: 3.90
book published:
rating: 3
read at: 2024/12/28
date added: 2024/12/29
shelves: adult, age-gap, contemporary-romance
review:
So I only like SJ Tilly's writing when she's writing mafia romances.

Noted.

This book has no tension, yearning or any relationship development. Continue at your own risk.
]]> 75572114
It’s comfortable.

On paper.

But I’m tired of doing everything by myself. Tired of being in charge of every decision in my life.

I want someone to lean on. Someone to spend time with. Sit with. Hug.

And I really don’t want to go to my best friend’s wedding alone.

So, I signed up for a dating app, and agreed to meet with the first guy that messaged me.

And now here I am, at the bar.

Only it’s not my date that just sat down in the chair across from me. It’s his dad.

And holy hell, he’s the definition of Silver Fox. If a Silver Fox can be thick as a house, have piercing blue eyes and tattoos from his neck down to his fingertips.

He’s giving me Big Bad Wolf vibes. Only instead of running, I’m blushing. And he looks like he might just want to eat me whole.]]> 388 S.J. Tilly Luce 2 When your tinder date doesn't turn up, so you bang his dad instead.

Age-gap romances only work when it doesn't feel like the 52yo MMC is an actual dad to the 31yo FMC.

Pass.]]> 4.04 2022
author: S.J. Tilly
name: Luce
average rating: 4.04
book published: 2022
rating: 2
read at: 2024/12/29
date added: 2024/12/29
shelves: adult, age-gap, contemporary-romance, grumpy-sunshine, small-town-romance, single-dad-romance
review:
When your tinder date doesn't turn up, so you bang his dad instead.

Age-gap romances only work when it doesn't feel like the 52yo MMC is an actual dad to the 31yo FMC.

Pass.
]]> 221067802 Available for a limited time only!

Follow the characters you love from the Addicted Series and Like Us Series as they embark on holiday shenanigans throughout the years.

Don’t miss the

Christmas on the road in a tour bus.Snowed-in during a Scotland trip.Lake house winter traditions with the whole family.A high school “snow themed�� party going disastrously awry.

A Very Addicted Christmas is a holiday collection of 18 bonus scenes collected in eBook for the very first time!]]> 228 Krista Ritchie 1950165779 Luce 2
This Christmas novella sucks if you haven't read the series featuring the children.

Wish they'd focused more on the parents, which more people have read about if we're honest! This just feels like a novella to push readers to read their other books. BOO. No, thank you.

TWO STARS FOR YOU.

Also, criminal that there were no Ryke or Daisy chapters. CRIMINAL.]]> 3.92
author: Krista Ritchie
name: Luce
average rating: 3.92
book published:
rating: 2
read at: 2024/12/27
date added: 2024/12/27
shelves: adult, christmas, contemporary-romance, age-gap, novella
review:
Features way too many PoV's from the children, and not from the OG's!!

This Christmas novella sucks if you haven't read the series featuring the children.

Wish they'd focused more on the parents, which more people have read about if we're honest! This just feels like a novella to push readers to read their other books. BOO. No, thank you.

TWO STARS FOR YOU.

Also, criminal that there were no Ryke or Daisy chapters. CRIMINAL.
]]> 212294418 Star-crossed lovers learn that practicing romance leads to the perfect happy ending in this steamy reimagining of Shakespeare's Twelfth Night.

Since heartbreak entered the scene, Juliet Wilmot, once a hopeless romantic, has sworn off love. But when she's presented with the chance to revisit romance-purely for practice-with the gorgeous, off-limits guy she keeps serendipitously running into, it feels like a sign from the universe.

Quiet, shy Will Orsino knows happily-ever-after isn't on his horizon. Problem is, for the sake of the family business, marriage is. Resigned to the inevitable, but with no confidence he can woo a wife, he can hardly say no when fate hands him the alluring, unattainable woman he keeps crossing paths with, offering to help him learn the ropes of romance.

Neither of them looking for love, Jules and Will agree they're the perfect pair to practice romance. Except that practicing to perfection leads to an irresistible attraction. Their once smitten hearts, though still twice shy, might have happily-ever-after written in the stars for them, after all.]]> 384 Chloe Liese 0593441540 Luce 4
Not sure why, but this book just didn't hit for me. However, I will say that the neurodivergent and chronic illness representation was beautifully done as always.

Book 2 still remains my least favourite of the series but as I said, there was something missing in this one as well.

I loved Will and found him absolutely adorable, and Juliet was a great FMC. I loved watching them grow as characters, and there wasn't too much conflict in their story. At times, it did feel a little 'insta-love' for me and would loved for them to develop their feelings a little bit more naturally.

The story dragged a little and then once we hit 70%, it was full speed ahead and I couldn't really enjoy what was happening.

I'd recommend for those who have read the series and enjoy Chloe's other work.

I received an advanced copy for free through NetGalley, and I am leaving this review voluntarily. ]]> 3.78 2025
author: Chloe Liese
name: Luce
average rating: 3.78
book published: 2025
rating: 4
read at: 2024/12/26
date added: 2024/12/27
shelves: adult, contemporary-romance, friends-to-lovers, net-galley, arc
review:
3.75

Not sure why, but this book just didn't hit for me. However, I will say that the neurodivergent and chronic illness representation was beautifully done as always.

Book 2 still remains my least favourite of the series but as I said, there was something missing in this one as well.

I loved Will and found him absolutely adorable, and Juliet was a great FMC. I loved watching them grow as characters, and there wasn't too much conflict in their story. At times, it did feel a little 'insta-love' for me and would loved for them to develop their feelings a little bit more naturally.

The story dragged a little and then once we hit 70%, it was full speed ahead and I couldn't really enjoy what was happening.

I'd recommend for those who have read the series and enjoy Chloe's other work.

I received an advanced copy for free through NetGalley, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
]]> 58865631 He doesn’t do relationships.
She doesn’t do flings.
Everything they thought is about to unravel��

Frankie
When you say you're a sexologist, people imagine Marilyn Monroe. They don't expect a woman who uses a wheelchair. As the host of the All Access Podcast, I'm breaking barriers, crushing stigmas, and creating sexual connections that are fulfilling for my fans. I'm like cupid, but with pink hair and fewer diapers.
Only, I've hit a snag. A lovely listener wants some advice about accessible rope play and I'm drawing a big fat blank. Which leaves me with no option but to get out there and give it a go.
Which is how I meet Jay Wood—rigger, carpenter, and all-round hottie.
I'd be open to letting him wine and dine me—only Jay isn't my type. He's not a one-girl kind of guy. Monogamy isn't even in his vocab, and I'm not a woman who'll settle for being second choice.
But the closer we get, the more Jay has me tied up in knots.
And it's making me think, maybe I could compromise and accept a little Wood in my life. Even if it's only temporary.

Jay
Frankie's funny, intelligent, and ridiculously sexy. This should be a no-brainer. A little fun in the sheets, and a little romp with some ropes—simple.
Only the infuriating woman is asking for more. I'm not that kind of guy. I wouldn't even know how to be that kind of guy. I'm the definition of easy.
It'll be fine. We'll be friends. Just friends.
So, why does my heart feel frayed? And why is it I can't help but consider taking the ultimate leap of faith—tying myself to Frankie. Permanently.

Warning: This is an instalove piece of goodness that is too cute for words. Get thee some rope, a partner, and settle in for a delicious little romp!

P.S. THERE ARE NO WEREWOLVES IN THIS BOOK!]]> 221 Evie Mitchell 1922561207 Luce 2 adult, contemporary-romance
A cute novella to listen to whilst I was doing some last minute Christmas shopping!]]> 3.60 2021
author: Evie Mitchell
name: Luce
average rating: 3.60
book published: 2021
rating: 2
read at: 2024/12/24
date added: 2024/12/26
shelves: adult, contemporary-romance
review:
Cute but the characters lacked any real chemistry.

A cute novella to listen to whilst I was doing some last minute Christmas shopping!
]]> 214872803 FAKE AN ENGAGEMENT TO THE ICE KING TO TRAP AN ENEMY.
END THE SHAM BETROTHAL ONCE THE FOE IS CAUGHT.
WHAT COULD POSSIBLY GO WRONG?

If I were mortal, the epitaph on my tombstone would read: ��Here lies Isla Ríhbiadh, cherished daughter of Fallon and Lorcan, crown princess of Luce, and blunderer like no other.�� Luckily, I’m an immortal shifter sorceress, so my countless slipups haven’t resulted in my untimely demise. Yet.

When my latest blunder lands me in the steam chamber of a very naked and very irritable Faerie king, I worry the pointy-eared Glacin will dispose of my body under six feet of solid ice. Instead, he suggests we get married.

Our betrothal is purely strategic, meant only to trap King Konstantin’s shifter-hating enemies. He’s uninterested in finding love, and I’m uninterested in falling for a man who isn’t my mate. It's fool-proof.

Obviously, I’m a fool for thinking this, since nothing I ever do goes right.

What starts as a friendly ruse soon turns into a perilous game. One that blurs the line between scheming and desire. Between childhood fantasies and adult realities. Between the Ice King and me.

House of Burning Frost is a tale of peril, passion, and the power of love to transcend the confines of fate.

*This spicy standalone romantasy can be read without reading books 1-4, but, for more enjoyment, it's suggested to read the prior books.]]> 579 Olivia Wildenstein Luce 0 future-release 4.34 2025
author: Olivia Wildenstein
name: Luce
average rating: 4.34
book published: 2025
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2024/12/20
shelves: future-release
review:

]]> 178140671 The Kingdom of Crows. Cathal's story takes place right after the events of House of Striking Oaths and should be read in order.

TWICE UPON A TIME, A PRINCESS FELL IN LOVE WITH A BEAST.

I was reborn with no memory of my previous life and no powers, save for transforming into an aberration most wish eliminated. Among the few who don't wish me dead are the Shabbin Queen, Fallon and her mate Lorcan, and Cathal Báeinach—Fallon’s father and my self-appointed sentry.

Despite my best efforts, I cannot understand why the Crow King’s boorish general has decided to guard me, a woman he can barely stand to look at. I may lack education and be physically unpleasing, but do I deserve such scorn? More importantly, though, if he's repulsed by me, then why stay?

When I suggest he leave, he reminds me that he's one of the most lethal males in the realm. And while he may be that, he's also one of the most infuriating. A male who makes my blood run hot with equal measure irritation and lust.

Why must I be drawn to the brute who loathes me?

And why, when I forge a magical mind link to another male, must I keep hungering for the Crow who��finally—l��ڳ�?

House of Shifting Tides is a spellbinding tale of destiny, found family, and second chance romance, where blood isn’t always thicker than water and where fated love consumes all.]]> 461 Olivia Wildenstein Luce 3 adult, age-gap, romantasy
Zendaya and Cathal's story didn't need to be a whole book. I miss Lorcan and Fallon...]]> 4.12 2024
author: Olivia Wildenstein
name: Luce
average rating: 4.12
book published: 2024
rating: 3
read at: 2024/12/20
date added: 2024/12/20
shelves: adult, age-gap, romantasy
review:
Should have been a novella.

Zendaya and Cathal's story didn't need to be a whole book. I miss Lorcan and Fallon...
]]> 196274632 Made for me.
Born to ruin me.


I lived my life surrounded by luxuries, love, and attention.
While at the mercy of lies, death, and deceit.
I was tired of being just a pretty face.
The woman who always had to prove her worth.
When tragedy tears yet another gash in my heart, he was there to help mend my grief.
But there was a mystery hidden behind those alluring diamond eyes.
A whisper of ghosts and trauma from his past.
Red flags I knew I shouldn’t ignore.
Yet I couldn’t help the feelings blossoming within me or the fire that scorched my skin under his touch.
Derek Cain held promises of love and protection.
But what if he was who I needed saving from?


As a child, I knew nothing but hate and pain.
I was a soulless, unlovable bastard bred into a killer.
Bound by blood to the world’s most obscure and elite society of global puppeteers.
For years, I fantasized about taking revenge on the man who’d abandoned me.
And when his time finally came, that’s when I saw her.
His weakness.
Detective Evangelina Cruz was mine to taint, use, and ruin.
Until the lines of vengeance and obsession blurred.
And she consumed my every thought.
Though my secrets would destroy her, I’d bathe the world in blood before letting her go.
Would the love we forged in darkness prevail in the light of truth?]]> 470 Elle Maldonado Luce 1
Pacing is way too slow and the plot is non-existent. Neither MMC or FMC were interesting enough to keep my attention, and for a dark romance... SNOREEEE.

Disappointed as its been sitting on my physical TBR for quite a while.]]> 3.71
author: Elle Maldonado
name: Luce
average rating: 3.71
book published:
rating: 1
read at: 2024/04/03
date added: 2024/12/20
shelves: adult, dark-romance, enemies-to-lovers, dnf
review:
Was hoping the reviews were wrong... but this is not a good book.

Pacing is way too slow and the plot is non-existent. Neither MMC or FMC were interesting enough to keep my attention, and for a dark romance... SNOREEEE.

Disappointed as its been sitting on my physical TBR for quite a while.
]]> 215359475
To find those who discarded me at birth, I must sneak into Faerie.

But my deceased guardian left more than scars upon my heart. Debts are owed to the madam at the Lair of Lust, and I’m forced to repay them.

My first client is a faerie king who offers to give me everything I’ve always wanted. The king will take me to Faerie if I make a blood vow to marry him. A collection of sweltering meetings fool me into believing his reasons for choosing me to be his queen—a changeling without so much as a name.

For upon my arrival in his kingdom, I receive the answers I’ve craved and the truth behind his motives.

My wonder and infatuation for the king and his wintry realm are snuffed by hatred and fear. Though loathing him is futile when venomous words and spiteful games only prove to excite him. Once again, I’m trapped. This time, with an enemy I cannot hide from. One with enough heat in his eyes to melt my resolve, and enough power at his frosted fingertips to accomplish his sinister goals.

To survive all I’ve discovered, not only will I need to unearth King Florian’s dead heart—I will need to guard my own before he tricks it, too.]]> 360 Ella Fields Luce 2 ‘Go girl give us nothing!�� was a book.]]> 3.44 2023
author: Ella Fields
name: Luce
average rating: 3.44
book published: 2023
rating: 2
read at: 2024/06/30
date added: 2024/12/20
shelves: adult, age-gap, enemies-to-lovers, romantasy, dnf
review:
If ‘Go girl give us nothing!�� was a book.
]]> 122759963 ~~~~~ Content warnings can be found on the author's website.]]> 608 Clare Sager 1739804481 Luce 2
I waited specifically until I was back in my fantasy era before picking this one up, and let me tell you, it took me right back out.

This book felt like a bunch of chapters stuck together in hopes it would be enjoyable, and spoiler alert, it was not.

What was the driving plot? What were we fighting for? I just felt clueless for a lot of this book and I had no inclination to keep going. I even switched over to the audio book and I still lost interest.

Kat had a lot of potential but again, the author gave us nothing. Bastian, I'd kill him off myself to spice up the book a little. The lack of chemistry between them made every interaction unbearable.

Unfortunately, this author really is not for me and I would not recommend this book.
]]> 4.11 2023
author: Clare Sager
name: Luce
average rating: 4.11
book published: 2023
rating: 2
read at: 2024/08/06
date added: 2024/12/20
shelves: adult, age-gap, enemies-to-lovers, romantasy, dnf
review:
2.5

I waited specifically until I was back in my fantasy era before picking this one up, and let me tell you, it took me right back out.

This book felt like a bunch of chapters stuck together in hopes it would be enjoyable, and spoiler alert, it was not.

What was the driving plot? What were we fighting for? I just felt clueless for a lot of this book and I had no inclination to keep going. I even switched over to the audio book and I still lost interest.

Kat had a lot of potential but again, the author gave us nothing. Bastian, I'd kill him off myself to spice up the book a little. The lack of chemistry between them made every interaction unbearable.

Unfortunately, this author really is not for me and I would not recommend this book.

]]> 123275287 From New York Times bestselling author Lexi Blake, discover The Park Avenue Promise Series...

Three young women make a pact in high school��
to always be friends and to one day make it big in Manhattan.

She’s a high-tech boss who lost it all��

Ivy Jensen was the darling of the tech world, right up until her company fell apart completely after she trusted the wrong person. Her reputation in tatters, she finds herself back in the tiny apartment she grew up in, living with her mom. When a group of angel investors offer her a meeting, she knows she has to come up with the new big idea or her career is over.

He’s an up and coming coder��

Heath Marino has always been fascinated with writing code. He’s worked on a dozen games and apps and is considered one of the industry’s more eccentric talents. But now he’s back in New York to spend time with his grandmother. She was known as one of the city’s greatest matchmakers, and he wants to know why. Surely there’s some kind of code in his grandmother’s methods, and he’s going to find them.

When Ivy meets Heath it’s instant attraction, but she’s got a career to get back to and he just might be her on-ramp. It could be a perfect partnership or absolute heartbreak.

]]> 252 Lexi Blake 1957568658 Luce 1 4.01
author: Lexi Blake
name: Luce
average rating: 4.01
book published:
rating: 1
read at: 2024/08/23
date added: 2024/12/20
shelves: adult, contemporary-romance, dnf
review:
The writing for this was not my cup of tea to be honest, and came across as quite boring.
]]> 6811150 What would you do to win your freedom?

This is the question that sets bondwoman, Martise of Asher, on a dangerous path. In exchange for her freedom, she bargains with her masters, the mage-priests of Conclave, to spy on the renegade sorcerer, Silhara of Neith. The priests want Martise to expose the sorcerer's treachery and turn him over to Conclave justice. A risky endeavor, but one she accepts without hesitation--until she falls in love with her intended target.

Silhara of Neith, Master of Crows, is a desperate man. The god called Corruption invades his mind, seducing him with promises of limitless power if he will help it gain dominion over the world. Silhara struggles against Corruption's influence and searches for ways to destroy the god. When Conclave sends Martise as an apprentice to help him, he knows she's a spy. Now he fights a war on two fronts -against the god who would possess him and the apprentice who would betray him.

Mage and spy search together for a ritual that will annihilate Corruption, but in doing so, they discover secrets about each other that may damn them both. Silhara must decide if his fate, and the fate of nations, is worth the soul of the woman he has come to love, and Martise must choose continued enslavement or freedom at the cost of a man's life. And love.]]> 392 Grace Draven 1602728631 Luce 1 adult, romantasy, dnf
I'm not sure if I'm the problem. Why is every book feeling 'meh' at the moment?

I really struggled with the writing style and lost interest fairly quickly. ]]> 3.87 2009
author: Grace Draven
name: Luce
average rating: 3.87
book published: 2009
rating: 1
read at: 2024/08/23
date added: 2024/12/20
shelves: adult, romantasy, dnf
review:
SIGH.

I'm not sure if I'm the problem. Why is every book feeling 'meh' at the moment?

I really struggled with the writing style and lost interest fairly quickly.
]]> 60895295
Adrienne is determined to make the best out of her forced holiday until the date from hell results in her getting attacked, nearly drowning, then rescued by a bunch of seafaring cosplayers. Because what else could explain the Bronze Age-era boat full of shirtless, loincloth-wearing men?

Now, if only there was a way to explain the complete lack of technology, the insurmountable language barrier, or the fact that everyone is staring at her like she’s from another planet��

Drown the Sea is the first book in the Dying Gods series. It is a slow burn historical time-travel reverse harem romance suitable for readers 18+. Contains mm.]]> 494 Elisha Kemp Luce 2
I do enjoy Elisha Kemp’s writing style but this just isn’t the book for me.

A book club read that was a no from me this time. ]]> 4.03 2022
author: Elisha Kemp
name: Luce
average rating: 4.03
book published: 2022
rating: 2
read at: 2024/09/19
date added: 2024/12/20
shelves: adult, paranormal, why-choose, slow-burn, lgbt, dnf
review:
Knew this was going to be a risky read for me. I’m not the biggest fan of time travel and this reads like historical fiction for me, another genre I’m not a huge fan of.

I do enjoy Elisha Kemp’s writing style but this just isn’t the book for me.

A book club read that was a no from me this time.
]]> 53312623 Can you live a lie?

It’s a ghost town, this place that haunts me, the one that made me.

It’s clear to me that I’ll never outgrow Triple Falls or outlive the time I spent here.

I can still feel them all, my boys of summer.

Even when I’d sensed the danger, I gave in.

I didn’t heed a single warning. I let my sickness, my love, both rule and ruin me. I played my part, eyes wide open, tempting fate until it delivered.

There was never going to be an escape.

All of us are to blame for what happened. All of us serving our own sentences. We were careless and reckless, thinking our youth made us indestructible, exempt from our sins, and it cost us all.

I’m done pretending I didn’t leave the largest part of me between these hills and valleys, between the sea of trees that hold my secrets.

It’s the reason I’m back. To make peace with my fate.

And if I can’t grieve enough to cure myself in my time here, I’ll remain sick. That will be my curse.

But it’s time to confess, to myself more so than any other, that I’d hindered my chances because of the way I was built, and because of the men who built me.

At this point, I just want to make peace with who I am, no matter what ending I get.

Because I can no longer live a lie.]]> 450 Kate Stewart Luce 2
I enjoyed when we were in the past with Cece but when we lost (a certain character), I also lost interest. The second half of this book was borderline painful.

I also feel like there's too much telling, and not enough showing. I want to experience the story, not be told it.

I won't be picking up book 3, sorry Cathy!]]> 4.35 2020
author: Kate Stewart
name: Luce
average rating: 4.35
book published: 2020
rating: 2
read at: 2024/10/05
date added: 2024/12/20
shelves: adult, age-gap, contemporary-romance, enemies-to-lovers, slow-burn, dnf
review:
This book just made book 1 feel pointless.

I enjoyed when we were in the past with Cece but when we lost (a certain character), I also lost interest. The second half of this book was borderline painful.

I also feel like there's too much telling, and not enough showing. I want to experience the story, not be told it.

I won't be picking up book 3, sorry Cathy!
]]> 216882963 She's the only woman he wants...and the only one he can't have.

Asher Donovan is a living legend—the darling of the Premier League, the (arguably) greatest footballer in the world.

But his reckless antics and recent team transfer have caused much controversy, and when his feud with his rival-turned-teammate costs them a championship, they’re forced to “bond�� during off-season cross-training.

Surviving the summer shouldn’t be hard…until Asher meets their new trainer. She’s beautiful, talented, and no matter how hard he tries, he can’t take his mind off her.

The only problem? She’s his rival’s sister—and completely off limits.

***

Scarlett DuBois is a former prima ballerina whose career was cut short by a tragic accident.

Now a teacher at a prestigious dance academy but still haunted by the ghosts of her past, the last thing she wants is to spend the summer cross-training Asher Donovan, of all people .

She swore she would never date a footballer, but when her brother leaves town for an emergency, she finds herself thrown into dangerously close proximity with the gorgeous, charming striker.

Training, she can deal with. But falling in love? That’s out of the question—especially when he’s the only person with the power to break her heart.]]> Ana Huang 0349442258 Luce 1
Why did she decide to finally dip her toes into a sports romance, but chose a sport she clearly knows nothing about? I love a sports romance where I get a real feel for the sport and yet... the football side of this 'sports romance' felt like a shoddy afterthought with no real research being done. It was borderline painful how obvious it was she had no clue what she writing about.

Now, whoever was helping Ana with the British aspect of this book needs to give their head a good wobble. Calling a pizza a pie... absolutely not. The geography of London, shocking. Pretending like the UK has paparazzi anything similar to the US... wrong. Scarlett and Asher getting a flood warning in London which meant they had to stay together because it was absolutely too dangerous to try and travel home... London hasn't had a major flood since 1928. I don't think a flood warning has ever been taken seriously in this country. So whoever helped Ana with this, you did a truly awful job.

The storyline was completely unrealistic - Asher and Scarlett could have literally met in so many other ways, but instead Scarlett (a teacher at a dance academy) is hired to train her brother and Asher to become better teammates on the field with Noah disappearing within the first 15% so really... this plot point was not needed. This book did not need to be 600 pages long... didn't even need to be half that.

Scarlett and Asher had 0 chemistry, cheesy banter and no personality. The smut was a snore because the characters had no real development. The chemistry between Asher and Noah was honestly better, this could have been a fabulous MM romance.

I stopped reading Ana Huang when she recycled the Twisted Series for her Kings of Sin series, and hoped that a sports romance would bring out a different aspect of her writing. I even took a chance and grabbed the UK exclusive edition because I had high hopes. Unfortunately, the Striker is just as bad as her Kings of Sin series. I don't think I'll be picking up anymore books from Ana Huang.]]> 3.73 2024
author: Ana Huang
name: Luce
average rating: 3.73
book published: 2024
rating: 1
read at: 2024/11/02
date added: 2024/12/20
shelves: adult, contemporary-romance, sports-romance, dnf
review:
Came back to try Ana’s new book after two years to discover her writing has only gotten worse, and that she doesn’t use Google.

Why did she decide to finally dip her toes into a sports romance, but chose a sport she clearly knows nothing about? I love a sports romance where I get a real feel for the sport and yet... the football side of this 'sports romance' felt like a shoddy afterthought with no real research being done. It was borderline painful how obvious it was she had no clue what she writing about.

Now, whoever was helping Ana with the British aspect of this book needs to give their head a good wobble. Calling a pizza a pie... absolutely not. The geography of London, shocking. Pretending like the UK has paparazzi anything similar to the US... wrong. Scarlett and Asher getting a flood warning in London which meant they had to stay together because it was absolutely too dangerous to try and travel home... London hasn't had a major flood since 1928. I don't think a flood warning has ever been taken seriously in this country. So whoever helped Ana with this, you did a truly awful job.

The storyline was completely unrealistic - Asher and Scarlett could have literally met in so many other ways, but instead Scarlett (a teacher at a dance academy) is hired to train her brother and Asher to become better teammates on the field with Noah disappearing within the first 15% so really... this plot point was not needed. This book did not need to be 600 pages long... didn't even need to be half that.

Scarlett and Asher had 0 chemistry, cheesy banter and no personality. The smut was a snore because the characters had no real development. The chemistry between Asher and Noah was honestly better, this could have been a fabulous MM romance.

I stopped reading Ana Huang when she recycled the Twisted Series for her Kings of Sin series, and hoped that a sports romance would bring out a different aspect of her writing. I even took a chance and grabbed the UK exclusive edition because I had high hopes. Unfortunately, the Striker is just as bad as her Kings of Sin series. I don't think I'll be picking up anymore books from Ana Huang.
]]> 214507851 You know the most dangerous kind of villain? A woman with nothing left to lose.

In a world ruled by the Stars, cruel and merciless gods, Elara has been cursed by fate.

A prophecy promises she will fall for a Star, but that it will kill them both.

Yet when the Star of Wrath and War descends to hunt Elara, the neighbouring kingdom sees an opportunity to take her from her home, the Kingdom of Night, to Helios, Kingdom of Light. Where she strides straight into the arms of an enemy prince.

There, Elara is forced to either let Prince Lorenzo train her into a weapon worthy of battling against the tyrannical reign of the Stars, or to accept her fate.

But there are shadows even within the Kingdom of Light �� and they threaten to reveal the darkness in Lorenzo’s past and the ancient magic that slumbers in Elara’s veins.

And with it all, the undeniable, star-crossed pull between them . . .]]> 512 Imani Erriu 024174055X Luce 2
I liked the plot somewhat and the romance was pretty average, but was I blown away? No.

I don't think I'll be continuing this series on unfortunately, but think it would be great for those looking for a more YA romantasy. ]]> 4.04 2022
author: Imani Erriu
name: Luce
average rating: 4.04
book published: 2022
rating: 2
read at: 2024/12/03
date added: 2024/12/20
shelves: adult, romantasy, slow-burn, enemies-to-lovers, dnf
review:
Was slightly confused if this book was trying to YA, dark fantasy or a romantasy as it felt slightly all over the place for me.

I liked the plot somewhat and the romance was pretty average, but was I blown away? No.

I don't think I'll be continuing this series on unfortunately, but think it would be great for those looking for a more YA romantasy.
]]>