en-US Sun, 20 Apr 2025 17:39:57 -0700 60 144 41 /images/layout/goodreads_logo_144.jpg 1438363 A man on a mission...

After five grueling years in a Texas prison, Austin Leigh is finally a free man. He can’t wait to go home and be reunited with his sweetheart. But when he discovers she didn’t wait for him and is now married, he becomes more determined to clear his name of the crime he never committed.

Meets the one woman who could offer him salvation—and love...

En route to the state capital, he meets a young woman, Loree Grant, and her dog. When he learns that they have survived a mysterious tragedy, he is moved—and curious. And as he spends more time with the lovely, intriguing woman, he sees glimpses of a future he had thought was no longer possible as they both find a new lease on life—and a love that can overcome any obstacle . . .]]> 320 Lorraine Heath 0451407547 NMmomof4 4 4 Stars

Opinion Breakdown
The Good: The characters, the connection between characters, and the family aspect.

The Not-So-Good: The POV isn't my favorite.

The Bad: The angst felt a little lacking for me.

Overall: I've had this trilogy on my tbr list for what seems like forever, so when I saw it available on my library app, I thought why not? I'm glad I gave it a shot. I'll probably go back to read the other two at some point, especially because I read the third book first. I liked the development of feelings, the characters, and the family aspect. I did feel like I was expecting more angst, so it was just alright for me in that department. Otherwise, I liked this!

Brief Summary of the Storyline: This is Loree and Austin's story. Austin gets out of prison for being wrongly accused of murder to find that the woman he loves is married to his best friend and the town hating him. He decides to set out to Austin try to clear his name and he meets Loree along the way. She helps care for him and provides shelter while he and his horse heal some wounds, and they develop feelings for one another. There are some big secrets revealed, some past baggage to work through, and some sexy times...and they get a HEA ending.

Point Of View (POV): This alternated between focusing on Loree and Austin in 3rd person narrative. Not my fave.

Overall Pace of Story: Good. I never skimmed and I thought it flowed well.

Instalove: No, they take a while to develop stronger feelings.

H (Hero) rating: 4 stars. Austin. I liked him. I appreciated how he owned up to his mistakes and cared for the h.

h (heroine) rating: 3.5 stars. Loree. I liked her but I also wanted her to confide in the H more or at least earlier.

Sadness level: Low, no tissues needed

Push/Pull: Yes [spoilers removed]

Heat level: Good. They have some good tension, chemistry, and scenes -- but not so much it takes away from the story.

Descriptive sex: Yes

OW (Other Woman)/OM (Other Man) drama: Yes [spoilers removed]

Sex scene with OW or OM: No

Cheating: No

Separation: Yes [spoilers removed]

Possible Triggers: Yes [spoilers removed]

Closure: This ends with a cute epilogue and what I would call a HEA ending [spoilers removed]

Safety: This one should be either Safe or Safe with exception for most safety gang readers depending on personal preferences.
[spoilers removed]]]> 3.94 1999
author: Lorraine Heath
name: NMmomof4
average rating: 3.94
book published: 1999
rating: 4
read at: 2025/04/20
date added: 2025/04/20
shelves: 4-star, family-aspect, duet-trilogy-or-series, hr, freebie-or-loan, musician, neighbors-live-with, safe, safe-with-exception, separation-without-other-partners
review:
4 Stars

Opinion Breakdown
The Good: The characters, the connection between characters, and the family aspect.

The Not-So-Good: The POV isn't my favorite.

The Bad: The angst felt a little lacking for me.

Overall: I've had this trilogy on my tbr list for what seems like forever, so when I saw it available on my library app, I thought why not? I'm glad I gave it a shot. I'll probably go back to read the other two at some point, especially because I read the third book first. I liked the development of feelings, the characters, and the family aspect. I did feel like I was expecting more angst, so it was just alright for me in that department. Otherwise, I liked this!

Brief Summary of the Storyline: This is Loree and Austin's story. Austin gets out of prison for being wrongly accused of murder to find that the woman he loves is married to his best friend and the town hating him. He decides to set out to Austin try to clear his name and he meets Loree along the way. She helps care for him and provides shelter while he and his horse heal some wounds, and they develop feelings for one another. There are some big secrets revealed, some past baggage to work through, and some sexy times...and they get a HEA ending.

Point Of View (POV): This alternated between focusing on Loree and Austin in 3rd person narrative. Not my fave.

Overall Pace of Story: Good. I never skimmed and I thought it flowed well.

Instalove: No, they take a while to develop stronger feelings.

H (Hero) rating: 4 stars. Austin. I liked him. I appreciated how he owned up to his mistakes and cared for the h.

h (heroine) rating: 3.5 stars. Loree. I liked her but I also wanted her to confide in the H more or at least earlier.

Sadness level: Low, no tissues needed

Push/Pull: Yes [spoilers removed]

Heat level: Good. They have some good tension, chemistry, and scenes -- but not so much it takes away from the story.

Descriptive sex: Yes

OW (Other Woman)/OM (Other Man) drama: Yes [spoilers removed]

Sex scene with OW or OM: No

Cheating: No

Separation: Yes [spoilers removed]

Possible Triggers: Yes [spoilers removed]

Closure: This ends with a cute epilogue and what I would call a HEA ending [spoilers removed]

Safety: This one should be either Safe or Safe with exception for most safety gang readers depending on personal preferences.
[spoilers removed]
]]> 60714999 Human or vampire, the rules of survival are the same: never trust, never yield, and always �� always �� guard your heart.

The adopted human daughter of the Nightborn vampire king, Oraya carved her place in a world designed to kill her. Her only chance to become something more than prey is entering the Kejari: a legendary tournament held by the goddess of death herself.

But winning won’t be easy amongst the most vicious warriors from all three vampire houses. To survive, Oraya is forced to make an alliance with a mysterious rival.

Everything about Raihn is dangerous. He is a ruthless vampire, an efficient killer, an enemy to her father’s crown�� and her greatest competition. Yet, what terrifies Oraya most of all is that she finds herself oddly drawn to him.

But there’s no room for compassion in the Kejari. War for the House of Night brews, shattering everything that Oraya thought she knew about her home. And Raihn may understand her more than anyone �� but their blossoming attraction could be her downfall, in a kingdom where nothing is more deadly than love.

The Serpent and the Wings of Night is the first book in a new series of heart-wrenching romance, dark magic, and bloodthirsty intrigue, perfect for fans of From Blood and Ash and A Court of Thorns and Roses.]]> 504 Carissa Broadbent NMmomof4 4 3.5 Stars

Opinion Breakdown
The Good: The premise, suspense, and unlikely relationship of the mcs.

The Not-So-Good: The fact that we don't get the H's POV

The Bad: The pacing for the first 2/3ish.

Overall: I think the description of Hunger Games and ACOTR combined was a good one, only with vampires. I'm not quite sure why, but I find vampires an issue. Fae -- no problem! I typically struggle to buy-in for some reason with vampires. Maybe it's some lingering rebellion against twilight still in me or something ]]> 4.29 2022
author: Carissa Broadbent
name: NMmomof4
average rating: 4.29
book published: 2022
rating: 4
read at: 2025/03/27
date added: 2025/03/28
shelves: 3-5-star, famous-wealthy-popular, fantasy-scifi, friends-to-lovers, love-hate, kindle-unlimited, duet-trilogy-or-series, military-security-government, neighbors-live-with, safe, unlikely-couple
review:
3.5 Stars

Opinion Breakdown
The Good: The premise, suspense, and unlikely relationship of the mcs.

The Not-So-Good: The fact that we don't get the H's POV

The Bad: The pacing for the first 2/3ish.

Overall: I think the description of Hunger Games and ACOTR combined was a good one, only with vampires. I'm not quite sure why, but I find vampires an issue. Fae -- no problem! I typically struggle to buy-in for some reason with vampires. Maybe it's some lingering rebellion against twilight still in me or something
]]> 22058103 One chance. That’s all I get when it comes to the Olympics.
I’ve given up everything for my chance to train under Konstantin Kournakova.
Kova is demanding. He only works with Elite gymnasts.
I follow his every command fifty hours a week.
He can’t break me. I thrive with the way he pushes me to my limits.
Whatever it takes to compete �� before it’s too late.
He’s everything forbidden. Older. Taken. My father’s friend.
I shouldn’t want him �� wish he was mine.
When I put my mind to it, there’s nothing I can’t do.


I’m her coach.
Fifty hours a week I tell her what to do.
Gymnastics isn’t for the weak and Adrianna is as strong as they come.
I’ll break her down so she can build herself up.
I know that she wants me, with every secret glance.
But I’ll lose everything if I give in.
I’m too old for her. I have someone else I love. I’m her father’s friend.
Adrianna Rossi is the sum of everything forbidden to me.
She makes me wish I could burn it all down just for her.]]> 610 Lucia Franco NMmomof4 4 3.5 Stars

Quick Opinion: I'm not feeling doing my usual review format because I have jumped into the next book, Execution. This has been on my tbr list for what seems like forever, but I've been hesitant because of the length and the fact it is a series. This was long but didn't feel that way. The gymnastics got a little too much, but it was understandable. My big gripe is that we don't get the H's POV, which I feel is much needed, and especially because it seemed mostly like lust for him (which gave creeper vibes) and I felt we really needed more of an emotional connection between them. I'm intrigued enough to keep reading, but we'll see how it goes...

Not Safe: [spoilers removed]]]> 3.84 2016
author: Lucia Franco
name: NMmomof4
average rating: 3.84
book published: 2016
rating: 4
read at: 2025/03/15
date added: 2025/03/15
shelves: duet-trilogy-or-series, kindle-unlimited, 3-5-star, athlete, cheating, famous-wealthy-popular, love-triangle, not-safe, taboo, unlikely-couple, workplace
review:
3.5 Stars

Quick Opinion: I'm not feeling doing my usual review format because I have jumped into the next book, Execution. This has been on my tbr list for what seems like forever, but I've been hesitant because of the length and the fact it is a series. This was long but didn't feel that way. The gymnastics got a little too much, but it was understandable. My big gripe is that we don't get the H's POV, which I feel is much needed, and especially because it seemed mostly like lust for him (which gave creeper vibes) and I felt we really needed more of an emotional connection between them. I'm intrigued enough to keep reading, but we'll see how it goes...

Not Safe: [spoilers removed]
]]> 220793644 When is the worst time to tell someone he’s going to be a father?
Probably the day of the wedding��
When he is getting married to someone else.

Well, that is exactly what I did.
But my hands were tied.
Literally.

Matvey Groza is a dangerous man.
And nine months ago, he strolled into my shop looking for a custom suit.
But when I accidentally walked in on him in the changing room,
*I* was the one that ended up needing a new set of clothes.

It was a one-time mistake.
After that�� good riddance.

But the pregnancy test I took a month later had other plans.

I kept it a secret from everyone.
Or so I thought.
But when Matvey’s enemies learned that I was pregnant with his child,
they kidnapped me and held me hostage.

Until I broke free and ran as fast as I could.
And I had no one else to turn to but the devil himself.

What better time for me to enter the church��
�� than as the pastor says, “Speak now or forever hold your peace"?

CASHMERE CRUELTY is Book 1 of the Groza Bratva Duet. The story continues in Book 2, CASHMERE RUIN .]]> 578 Nicole Fox NMmomof4 3 3 Stars

Quick Opinion: This was alright. I'm bummed because the reviews are so good and the premise was just different enough to have me stick with it. It does pick up towards the end, but there's a lot in the middle that I felt was kind of meh. Like it was stretched out to get 2 books, tbh. I didn't hate it, but I also didn't love it. I found myself playing games on my iPad and watching shows instead of reading, which to me, says a lot.

Safety: [spoilers removed]]]> 4.33
author: Nicole Fox
name: NMmomof4
average rating: 4.33
book published:
rating: 3
read at: 2025/01/31
date added: 2025/02/02
shelves: 3-star, famous-wealthy-popular, fbuddy-to-more, kids-baby, kindle-unlimited, duet-trilogy-or-series, mob-bad-guy-h, neighbors-live-with, safe, unlikely-couple
review:
3 Stars

Quick Opinion: This was alright. I'm bummed because the reviews are so good and the premise was just different enough to have me stick with it. It does pick up towards the end, but there's a lot in the middle that I felt was kind of meh. Like it was stretched out to get 2 books, tbh. I didn't hate it, but I also didn't love it. I found myself playing games on my iPad and watching shows instead of reading, which to me, says a lot.

Safety: [spoilers removed]
]]> 21856789 She was the best kind of trouble. The kind that was so wrong, it felt right.

I’ve tried and failed to stay away from him.
I’ve done everything in my power to make her mine and keep her.

He’s almost impossible to say no to.
She never tells me yes.

We’re always fighting.
When we’re not fighting, we’re�� well�� making up.

He makes me laugh so hard.
I miss her laugh the most.

I'm a liar.
She knows the truth, but won’t admit it.

Sometimes, I wish I'd never met him.
I wish we could meet all over again. I'd do better.

His girlfriend knows.
The guy she’s with is a fool.

I’ll never love anyone like I love him.
She doesn’t love me enough to choose us.

It was the wrong place.
It was the wrong time.

It should have been him.
It will always be her.

This book contains adult situations and is recommended for adult readers. ]]> 387 M. Mabie 1502388472 NMmomof4 3 4 Stars (Originally Read 7/27/2017)

3 Stars (Re-Read 12/7/2024)

Opinion Breakdown
The Good: The premise (yes, I like this stuff ]]> 3.88 2014
author: M. Mabie
name: NMmomof4
average rating: 3.88
book published: 2014
rating: 3
read at: 2024/12/07
date added: 2024/12/07
shelves: 3-star, cheating, duet-trilogy-or-series, fbuddy-to-more, not-safe, re-read, separation-with-other-partners, separation-without-other-partners, tears
review:
4 Stars (Originally Read 7/27/2017)

3 Stars (Re-Read 12/7/2024)

Opinion Breakdown
The Good: The premise (yes, I like this stuff
]]> 60556912
Every day I clean the Winchesters�� beautiful house top to bottom. I collect their daughter from school. And I cook a delicious meal for the whole family before heading up to eat alone in my tiny room on the top floor.

I try to ignore how Nina makes a mess just to watch me clean it up. How she tells strange lies about her own daughter. And how her husband Andrew seems more broken every day. But as I look into Andrew’s handsome brown eyes, so full of pain, it’s hard not to imagine what it would be like to live Nina’s life. The walk-in closet, the fancy car, the perfect husband.

I only try on one of Nina’s pristine white dresses once. Just to see what it’s like. But she soon finds out�� and by the time I realize my attic bedroom door only locks from the outside, it’s far too late.

But I reassure myself: the Winchesters don’t know who I really am.

They don’t know what I’m capable of��

An unbelievably twisty read that will have you glued to the pages late into the night. Anyone who loves The Woman in the Window, The Wife Between Us and The Girl on the Train won’t be able to put this down!]]> 329 Freida McFadden 1803144378 NMmomof4 4 3.5 Stars

Quick Opinion: I read this to step out of my box and because it's been on my tbr list for what seems like forever. I'm glad I read it, but I wouldn't say that I'm a definite fan of the thriller genre. I will try hard not to make this my deciding opinion on it, because I was a little underwhelmed. I didn't dislike it or anything, I just wasn't all that invested in the characters like I was hoping I'd be. I think I need that investment to feel the feels that I had expected came with reading a "thriller."

I think I need some recommendations!]]> 4.31 2022
author: Freida McFadden
name: NMmomof4
average rating: 4.31
book published: 2022
rating: 4
read at: 2024/09/02
date added: 2024/09/02
shelves: kindle-unlimited, duet-trilogy-or-series, thriller, workplace, suspense, not-safe, neighbors-live-with, 3-5-star
review:
3.5 Stars

Quick Opinion: I read this to step out of my box and because it's been on my tbr list for what seems like forever. I'm glad I read it, but I wouldn't say that I'm a definite fan of the thriller genre. I will try hard not to make this my deciding opinion on it, because I was a little underwhelmed. I didn't dislike it or anything, I just wasn't all that invested in the characters like I was hoping I'd be. I think I need that investment to feel the feels that I had expected came with reading a "thriller."

I think I need some recommendations!
]]> 34948440 Of course I want to be like them. They’re beautiful as blades forged in some divine fire. They will live forever.

And Cardan is even more beautiful than the rest. I hate him more than all the others. I hate him so much that sometimes when I look at him, I can hardly breathe.

Jude was seven years old when her parents were murdered and she and her two sisters were stolen away to live in the treacherous High Court of Faerie. Ten years later, Jude wants nothing more than to belong there, despite her mortality. But many of the fey despise humans. Especially Prince Cardan, the youngest and wickedest son of the High King.

To win a place at the Court, she must defy him–and face the consequences.

In doing so, she becomes embroiled in palace intrigues and deceptions, discovering her own capacity for bloodshed. But as civil war threatens to drown the Courts of Faerie in violence, Jude will need to risk her life in a dangerous alliance to save her sisters, and Faerie itself.]]> 385 Holly Black NMmomof4 3 2.5 Stars

Opinion Breakdown
The Good: the uniqueness of storyline

The Not-So-Good: the characters were bland for me

The Bad: The pacing and lack of romance (even though tagged as such)

Overall: I don't think this should be tagged as a romance, let alone twice here on ŷ������. It is not a romance at all. They share a kiss but that's it and even that was out of nowhere and kinda awkward tbh. I was excited at first because it wasn't just an ACOTAR ripoff like many fantasy books seem to lean, but then....nothing was really happening. At all. I was bored and I did not feel even a second of urgency to read the next book. I'm obviously in the mega minority because many others raved about this series, so it very well could be a me thing.

Brief Summary of the Storyline: This is Jude's story. Jude is human and her mother gets murdered by her ex husband, who then raises her and her sisters in Faerie. Her new father figure happens to be the main general for the High Fae King and raises her in a way that she wants to become a knight. There are noble Fae that she goes to trainings/school with that bully her because she is mortal. When there is some political unrest, she joins alliance with some unusual suspects and then there is a cliffhanger.

Point Of View (POV): This was told in Jude's POV.

Overall Pace of Story: Slow. I never skimmed but this felt long and slow.

Instalove: No

H (Hero) rating: 2 stars. Idk how we're supposed to like him. He's just a bully and then forced ally that might share a mutual attraction with the h ]]> 3.99 2018
author: Holly Black
name: NMmomof4
average rating: 3.99
book published: 2018
rating: 3
read at: 2024/08/23
date added: 2024/08/23
shelves: 2-5-star, fantasy-scifi, duet-trilogy-or-series, kindle-unlimited, military-security-government, safe, unlikely-couple, suspense
review:
2.5 Stars

Opinion Breakdown
The Good: the uniqueness of storyline

The Not-So-Good: the characters were bland for me

The Bad: The pacing and lack of romance (even though tagged as such)

Overall: I don't think this should be tagged as a romance, let alone twice here on ŷ������. It is not a romance at all. They share a kiss but that's it and even that was out of nowhere and kinda awkward tbh. I was excited at first because it wasn't just an ACOTAR ripoff like many fantasy books seem to lean, but then....nothing was really happening. At all. I was bored and I did not feel even a second of urgency to read the next book. I'm obviously in the mega minority because many others raved about this series, so it very well could be a me thing.

Brief Summary of the Storyline: This is Jude's story. Jude is human and her mother gets murdered by her ex husband, who then raises her and her sisters in Faerie. Her new father figure happens to be the main general for the High Fae King and raises her in a way that she wants to become a knight. There are noble Fae that she goes to trainings/school with that bully her because she is mortal. When there is some political unrest, she joins alliance with some unusual suspects and then there is a cliffhanger.

Point Of View (POV): This was told in Jude's POV.

Overall Pace of Story: Slow. I never skimmed but this felt long and slow.

Instalove: No

H (Hero) rating: 2 stars. Idk how we're supposed to like him. He's just a bully and then forced ally that might share a mutual attraction with the h
]]> 30314992
My name is Greer Galloway, and I serve at the pleasure of the President of the United States.

This is the story of an American Queen.]]> 393 Sierra Simone 153344367X NMmomof4 0 3.5 Stars

Overall Opinion: This was enjoyable and unique enough of a story that it kept my interest. I went in pretty much blind because I skimmed the (majority of) raving reviews, and because I don't want to ruin it and I think that's the way to go -- I'm not writing my typical review. I feel like I'm being a little generous with the 3.5 star rating, but I also think that it very well could be the funk I've found myself in lately that's making me feel that way.

This absolutely had a ton of hype surrounding it when it first came out and that was why I didn't get into it for a while. It wasn't as angsty as I was expecting and I just wasn't all that effected by the cliffhanger like so many of my GR friends suggested they were in their reviews. I also wasn't all that eager to continue once I jumped into the next book, American Prince, so I stopped. I might go back to this series, I might not ]]> 3.76 2016
author: Sierra Simone
name: NMmomof4
average rating: 3.76
book published: 2016
rating: 0
read at: 2024/07/26
date added: 2024/07/26
shelves: duet-trilogy-or-series, kindle-unlimited
review:
3.5 Stars

Overall Opinion: This was enjoyable and unique enough of a story that it kept my interest. I went in pretty much blind because I skimmed the (majority of) raving reviews, and because I don't want to ruin it and I think that's the way to go -- I'm not writing my typical review. I feel like I'm being a little generous with the 3.5 star rating, but I also think that it very well could be the funk I've found myself in lately that's making me feel that way.

This absolutely had a ton of hype surrounding it when it first came out and that was why I didn't get into it for a while. It wasn't as angsty as I was expecting and I just wasn't all that effected by the cliffhanger like so many of my GR friends suggested they were in their reviews. I also wasn't all that eager to continue once I jumped into the next book, American Prince, so I stopped. I might go back to this series, I might not
]]> 35958837 398 Laura Branchflower 0999175238 NMmomof4 3 2.5 Stars

Opinion Breakdown
The Good: The premise, even though a lot of readers will not like this!

The Not-So-Good: The h tiptoed the line of doormat status for me.

The Bad: The characters. I didn't connect to them (other than one side character)

Overall: This was surprisingly hard to put down even though I don't think I really enjoyed it. I just wanted to know what happened. It was like a train wreck. I think that feeling of a drop in my stomach when I read about betrayals like this is so impactful that I even seek it out every once in a while even though I'm conflicted on why I do. I think I'm just drawn to feeling something while reading! I like the messy romances because they usually do make me feel. I just wanted more on this, especially because the only character I liked was the OM ]]> 3.65
author: Laura Branchflower
name: NMmomof4
average rating: 3.65
book published:
rating: 3
read at: 2024/07/22
date added: 2024/07/23
shelves: 2-5-star, cheating, famous-wealthy-popular, duet-trilogy-or-series, kids-baby, freebie-or-loan, love-triangle, not-safe, separation-without-other-partners, separation-with-other-partners, tears
review:
2.5 Stars

Opinion Breakdown
The Good: The premise, even though a lot of readers will not like this!

The Not-So-Good: The h tiptoed the line of doormat status for me.

The Bad: The characters. I didn't connect to them (other than one side character)

Overall: This was surprisingly hard to put down even though I don't think I really enjoyed it. I just wanted to know what happened. It was like a train wreck. I think that feeling of a drop in my stomach when I read about betrayals like this is so impactful that I even seek it out every once in a while even though I'm conflicted on why I do. I think I'm just drawn to feeling something while reading! I like the messy romances because they usually do make me feel. I just wanted more on this, especially because the only character I liked was the OM
]]> 212127083
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.]]> 588 Callie Hart NMmomof4 0 4.34 2024
author: Callie Hart
name: NMmomof4
average rating: 4.34
book published: 2024
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2024/07/18
shelves: maybe, duet-trilogy-or-series, kindle-unlimited
review:

]]> 52764667
Then Ari Sharapov walks back in and tries to solve everything.

Ari may have gained a little more control in his life, but there's still one area he doesn't have a grip on �� Valentine refuses to believe anything he says. Gone is the girl who wanted someone to take care of her, and in her place is a woman who's willing to take everything he has to offer, but without giving anything of herself in return. He's used to fighting battles in a courtroom, but convincing her of his feelings will be his biggest struggle yet.

Maybe it's time for this relationship to be brought to light.]]> Stylo Fantome NMmomof4 3 2.5 Stars

Quick Opinion: This was also underwhelming and I'm honestly surprised I finished it. That's it. I really don't have anything else to say ]]> 3.67 2019
author: Stylo Fantome
name: NMmomof4
average rating: 3.67
book published: 2019
rating: 3
read at: 2024/06/30
date added: 2024/06/30
shelves: 2-5-star, contract-or-fake-to-real, famous-wealthy-popular, fbuddy-to-more, kindle-unlimited, duet-trilogy-or-series, safe, second-chance, separation-without-other-partners, unlikely-couple, workplace
review:
2.5 Stars

Quick Opinion: This was also underwhelming and I'm honestly surprised I finished it. That's it. I really don't have anything else to say
]]> 50045334
Then Ari Sharapov walked in and changed everything.

Working for his father's law firm has left Ari with very little control over his life, so when he meets Valentine for the first time, he sees a girl who is desperate for someone to take care of her. To take over her. So what he can't get for himself in the day time, he'll simply take for himself at night. But when power struggles lead to real feelings, who's actually controlling whom?

Some relationships are better left in the dark.
]]> 285 Stylo Fantome NMmomof4 3 3 Stars

Quick Opinion: This was an alright start to the duet. I'm interested in how it will all go, otherwise I probably wouldn't continue. I wanted more emotional connection and I'm not sure I really like the H all that much. We'll see how the next one goes...

Safety: This one would probably be either Safe with exception or Not safe for most safety gang readers depending on personal preferences ([spoilers removed])]]> 3.99 2019
author: Stylo Fantome
name: NMmomof4
average rating: 3.99
book published: 2019
rating: 3
read at: 2024/06/30
date added: 2024/06/30
shelves: kindle-unlimited, 3-star, cheating, college, contract-or-fake-to-real, famous-wealthy-popular, duet-trilogy-or-series, fbuddy-to-more, safe-with-exception, not-safe, unlikely-couple, workplace
review:
3 Stars

Quick Opinion: This was an alright start to the duet. I'm interested in how it will all go, otherwise I probably wouldn't continue. I wanted more emotional connection and I'm not sure I really like the H all that much. We'll see how the next one goes...

Safety: This one would probably be either Safe with exception or Not safe for most safety gang readers depending on personal preferences ([spoilers removed])
]]> 40944965 His first, last, and only true love has always been rugby.
Until now.

He wants to save her.
She wants to hide.

She's damaged.
He's determined.

Fate brought them together.
Love binds them.

Johnny Kavanagh has everything going for him. On the rugby pitch, he's a force to be reckoned with. Primed for stardom, he's heading straight for the top. Nothing can possibly get in his way, right?
Not even the shy new girl at Tommen College. The one with the sad eyes and hidden bruises. The one that distracts him like no one ever has.
Plagued with a hidden injury and desperate to impress the scouts watching his every move, Johnny has been placed on a pedestal so high, he has no room to make mistakes.
Striving to maintain balance, and on the crest of the International Summer Campaign, Johnny needs to keep his head in the game. He needs to stay focused, and cannot afford to let distractions get in the way of the bigger picture.
But what happens when a lonely girl with sad eyes becomes the only picture?

Life has never been easy for Shannon Lynch. Bullied and tortured, she arrives at Tommen College mid-way through the school year praying for a fresh start and desperate to shake off the demons that plague her.
On her very first day at the prestigious private school, she comes into contact with the notorious Johnny Kavanagh.
Thrown through a hoop over her feelings for him, and desperate to keep a low-profile, Shannon finds herself once again the target of bullies as she forms a fragile alliance with rugby's rising star.

Falling into a complicated friendship and grappling with their undeniable chemistry, Johnny and Shannon must face obstacles that threaten their relationship.

Two teenagers from opposite sides of the tracks collide.

Friendship, first love, rising fame, horrifying secrets, and pain all fuel together in Binding 13.

Hearts are binding and lives are entwining in Binding 13.

Binding 13 is the explosive first installment of a brand-new series from Chloe Walsh. Based in Ireland, the Boys Of Tommen series is bound to captivate and lure you into the world of rugby, love, and teenage heartbreak.]]> 626 Chloe Walsh NMmomof4 4 3.5 Stars

Quick Review: I goofed and didn't realize this was a duet until I was coming up on the end and thinking that I was going to be pissed if it ended that way. I even had this shelved as a duet or series ]]> 4.43 2018
author: Chloe Walsh
name: NMmomof4
average rating: 4.43
book published: 2018
rating: 4
read at: 2024/03/09
date added: 2024/06/22
shelves: freebie-or-loan, duet-trilogy-or-series, 3-5-star, athlete, famous-wealthy-popular, friends-to-lovers, kindle-unlimited, safe-with-exception, unlikely-couple, hs
review:
3.5 Stars

Quick Review: I goofed and didn't realize this was a duet until I was coming up on the end and thinking that I was going to be pissed if it ended that way. I even had this shelved as a duet or series
]]> 59645300
Cat Fisa’s warlord captor-turned-lover may have crowned her with the symbols of the three realms, but war is far from over. She believes in what Griffin is trying to accomplish. She believes that peace will finally come when the realms are united. And she believes that with her by his side, Griffin has the strength to change the world.

But with her dangerous past resurfacing and the neighboring Magoi royals out for blood, Cat and Griffin must strike soon if they want to unify the land without full-scale war.

They’ll do anything to avoid innocent bloodshed, including crossing the treacherous Ice Plains or entering the deadly Agon Games to win access to the royal court…and the very family they plan to usurp. When their desperate battle for survival is over, Cat and Griffin will either be standing side-by-side in the heart of their future kingdom—or not at all.

Discover the white-hot fantasy willing to break all the rules.]]> 433 Amanda Bouchet 1728251141 NMmomof4 3 3 Stars

Quick Opinion: This was alright. It was a typical 2nd book in a trilogy that was full of filler. Adventures and trials, but not much else tbh. It was okay. I'm hoping the final book will give me good closure...]]> 3.77 2017
author: Amanda Bouchet
name: NMmomof4
average rating: 3.77
book published: 2017
rating: 3
read at: 2024/06/19
date added: 2024/06/19
shelves: 3-star, duet-trilogy-or-series, famous-wealthy-popular, fantasy-scifi, freebie-or-loan, neighbors-live-with, safe, suspense, unlikely-couple
review:
3 Stars

Quick Opinion: This was alright. It was a typical 2nd book in a trilogy that was full of filler. Adventures and trials, but not much else tbh. It was okay. I'm hoping the final book will give me good closure...
]]> 195934852
Locked away for twelve years, Sabine Darrow’s only friends are animals she communicates with using magic. Now, sold as a bride to a villainous high lord, her greatest fear is trading one prison for another. But a potential escape lies in the form of her gruff yet achingly handsome guard, whose loyalty she is determined to break.

A huntsman with heightened senses, Basten “Wolf�� Bowborn has more important things to do than transport his master’s new bride. With ancient creatures reawakening along the kingdom's border wall, he is torn between his duty and his desire to investigate—until a forbidden attraction becomes an unyielding obsession.

Welcome to Astagnon—a kingdom of cruel games and corrupted courts, where the only thing more dangerous than the secrets slumbering underground is falling for the one person you can’t have.

Drawing inspiration from Snow White and the Lady Godiva legend, WHITE HORSE BLACK NIGHTS is a dark enemies-to-lovers fantasy romance that will take you on a journey you’ll never forget. This captivating story of a girl with a special gift is perfect for fans of Sarah J. Maas and Jennifer Armentrout!]]> 416 Evie Marceau NMmomof4 0 maybe, duet-trilogy-or-series 3.79 2023
author: Evie Marceau
name: NMmomof4
average rating: 3.79
book published: 2023
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2024/06/17
shelves: maybe, duet-trilogy-or-series
review:

]]> 27015399 BUT NOT IF SHE CAN HELP IT

Catalia "Cat" Fisa lives disguised as a soothsayer in a traveling circus. She is perfectly content avoiding the danger and destiny the Gods-and her homicidal mother-have saddled her with. That is, until Griffin, an ambitious warlord from the magic-deprived south, fixes her with his steely gaze and upsets her illusion of safety forever.

Griffin knows Cat is the Kingmaker, the woman who divines the truth through lies. He wants her as a powerful weapon for his newly conquered realm-until he realizes he wants her for much more than her magic. Cat fights him at every turn, but Griffin's fairness, loyalty, and smoldering advances make him increasingly hard to resist and leave her wondering if life really does have to be short, and lived alone.]]> 441 Amanda Bouchet 1492626015 NMmomof4 4 3.5 Stars

Brief Opinion: This was a good start to the trilogy. I enjoyed the Greek mythology ties and how it was just different enough to still use my previous knowledge about Greek mythology to make my own predictions about the story, but still needing to read on to truly get the answers to my questions. I enjoyed the characters except I did want the h to stop pushing away so much, while I also understood why she was pushing away. I hope the rest of the series keeps me engaged. On to the next...

Safety: Safe [spoilers removed]]]> 4.02 2016
author: Amanda Bouchet
name: NMmomof4
average rating: 4.02
book published: 2016
rating: 4
read at: 2024/06/17
date added: 2024/06/17
shelves: duet-trilogy-or-series, 3-5-star, captivity, famous-wealthy-popular, fantasy-scifi, freebie-or-loan, love-hate, military-security-government, neighbors-live-with, safe, suspense, unlikely-couple
review:
3.5 Stars

Brief Opinion: This was a good start to the trilogy. I enjoyed the Greek mythology ties and how it was just different enough to still use my previous knowledge about Greek mythology to make my own predictions about the story, but still needing to read on to truly get the answers to my questions. I enjoyed the characters except I did want the h to stop pushing away so much, while I also understood why she was pushing away. I hope the rest of the series keeps me engaged. On to the next...

Safety: Safe [spoilers removed]
]]> 62014384 It’s just beginning.

Lennon Washington has been the star of every dream, every nightmare, since the day I lost her.

Since the moment I let my demons win, and she slipped through my fingers.

Her memory has haunted me.
Changed me.
Broken me and remade me.
And I’d all but given up on us.

Now tragedy has brought her back into my life.
My secrets are at her disposal,
Hers are unraveling quickly,
And every emotion we’ve tried to deny is returning with a vengeance.

But we’re not kids anymore.
We have changed drastically.
And with each new ache, I start to wonder,

Is there a place for us in this life,
Or will we have to try again in the next one?]]> 346 Brit Benson NMmomof4 3 3 Stars

Quick Opinion: This was the end of the duet and I felt like it was just alright. It was full of miscommunication (which already isn't my favorite) and then when they finally communicated, it was the end of the book. And then! I needed to sign up for a newsletter to get an extended epilogue! While I was greatly tempted because I had invested in these characters by reading two books for this, I didn't because I had already invested by reading two books! Nowhere near enough closure. Their conflict was resolved at the very end and there were so many unanswered questions. I also wanted to shake both mcs to just talk to one another! I would call this a HFN ending [spoilers removed]. I didn't hate it, but I'm definitely in the minority because I didn't love it. I might read the 3rd book because it's about side characters, but only if I know I get a HEA for them...

Safety: I would call this Safe with exception depending on your personal preferences. **BIG SPOILERS**[spoilers removed]]]> 4.29
author: Brit Benson
name: NMmomof4
average rating: 4.29
book published:
rating: 3
read at: 2024/06/05
date added: 2024/06/05
shelves: 3-star, artist-mc, disordered-mc, duet-trilogy-or-series, kindle-unlimited, love-hate, neighbors-live-with, safe-with-exception, second-chance, separation-with-other-partners, separation-without-other-partners, taboo
review:
3 Stars

Quick Opinion: This was the end of the duet and I felt like it was just alright. It was full of miscommunication (which already isn't my favorite) and then when they finally communicated, it was the end of the book. And then! I needed to sign up for a newsletter to get an extended epilogue! While I was greatly tempted because I had invested in these characters by reading two books for this, I didn't because I had already invested by reading two books! Nowhere near enough closure. Their conflict was resolved at the very end and there were so many unanswered questions. I also wanted to shake both mcs to just talk to one another! I would call this a HFN ending [spoilers removed]. I didn't hate it, but I'm definitely in the minority because I didn't love it. I might read the 3rd book because it's about side characters, but only if I know I get a HEA for them...

Safety: I would call this Safe with exception depending on your personal preferences. **BIG SPOILERS**[spoilers removed]
]]> 60856174 I calmed his demons.
He created mine.

Macon Davis.
My best friend’s brother.
My tormentor.
My least favorite person.
Pothead. Delinquent.
A careless, directionless loser.

That’s what I used to believe,
but I didn’t really know him.
And when I finally saw him,
it was the best and worst thing to ever happen to me.

We burned hot and fast.
Passion. Anger. Love. Pain.
We were reckless. Naive.
We were doomed from the start.

When I finally saw Macon Davis for who he was,
we both went down in the flames.

***
The Love of My Next Life is part one of a duet.
It is just as much a love story as it is a tale of ruin.
While the duet will end in an HEA, book one does not.]]> 334 Brit Benson NMmomof4 4 3.5 Stars

Brief Opinion: This was intriguing. This had me engaged enough to want to go to the next book. While it did tap into my emotions, I wanted more. I'm hopeful that I'll get that in the next book, the final book of this duet, This Life and All the Rest. They were completely dysfunctional, but I do like dysfunction sometimes. On to the next...

Safety: Probably Not Safe [spoilers removed]]]> 4.15 2022
author: Brit Benson
name: NMmomof4
average rating: 4.15
book published: 2022
rating: 4
read at: 2024/06/05
date added: 2024/06/05
shelves: duet-trilogy-or-series, kindle-unlimited, 3-5-star, artist-mc, cheating, disordered-mc, love-hate, neighbors-live-with, not-safe, taboo
review:
3.5 Stars

Brief Opinion: This was intriguing. This had me engaged enough to want to go to the next book. While it did tap into my emotions, I wanted more. I'm hopeful that I'll get that in the next book, the final book of this duet, This Life and All the Rest. They were completely dysfunctional, but I do like dysfunction sometimes. On to the next...

Safety: Probably Not Safe [spoilers removed]
]]> 63214619
But I underestimated the crowned prince who took me. His touch like venom. His vengeance lethal.

He craves a power I no longer hold, and he’ll sacrifice every part of me until he gets it.

But I don’t belong to him. I belong to his brother.

His brother who will come for me, consequences be damned.

My fate is entangled between two princes—one who craves my power, the other who covets me—and I have more to lose than I ever imagined.

War rages in a game between queens, and I have become their pawn. But I will fight for my life, for my mate, and he will raze kingdoms to get me back.]]> 314 Holly Renee NMmomof4 0 DNF @ 72%

Quick Opinion: I know! 72%! And the 3rd book! I was just so bored. I was skimming the abundance of sex scenes that, again, felt like filler. I needed substance. I have way too many books on my tbr list and with the limited time I've had lately to read, I don't want to spend any more time with this one. I am honestly surprised I made it this far. Especially after feeling meh for the 2nd book. Oh well! If you want a smutty fantasy romance with a slight ACOTAR feel...this might work for you.]]> 3.52 2023
author: Holly Renee
name: NMmomof4
average rating: 3.52
book published: 2023
rating: 0
read at: 2024/05/25
date added: 2024/05/25
shelves: dnf, captivity, duet-trilogy-or-series, fantasy-scifi, kindle-unlimited, neighbors-live-with
review:
DNF @ 72%

Quick Opinion: I know! 72%! And the 3rd book! I was just so bored. I was skimming the abundance of sex scenes that, again, felt like filler. I needed substance. I have way too many books on my tbr list and with the limited time I've had lately to read, I don't want to spend any more time with this one. I am honestly surprised I made it this far. Especially after feeling meh for the 2nd book. Oh well! If you want a smutty fantasy romance with a slight ACOTAR feel...this might work for you.
]]> 61500521
My skin is cursed by the stars, my fate damned by desire.

But when the dark prince offers me a bargain that will save his people and my life, the cruel and intoxicating male gives me no choice.

Our union is his revenge, and I am his sacrifice.

His lies are unforgivable. His wicked touch still bathes me in sin.

He is my mate, and he is tortured by a curse to protect his people from his own family.

I could now see him for exactly who he was. So why can’t I get his alluring touch out of my head?

I am the key to saving his kingdom, but he alone has the power to ruin me.]]> 244 Holly Renee NMmomof4 3 3 Stars

Quick brief opinion: This felt like filler to me. I think it's the stereotypical cursed 2nd book in a series. It felt like not that much happened except the h being a little annoying with holding her anger way too long, a bunch of steamy scenes, and a climactic cliffhanger to get us to get the next book. Was it still enough for me to go on to read the next book now? Yes. But I feel like I'm toeing that line of calling it quits if it doesn't pick up soon...

Safety This should be safe for my safety gang gals]]> 3.72 2022
author: Holly Renee
name: NMmomof4
average rating: 3.72
book published: 2022
rating: 3
read at: 2024/05/21
date added: 2024/05/21
shelves: 3-star, captivity, famous-wealthy-popular, fantasy-scifi, kindle-unlimited, duet-trilogy-or-series, love-hate, military-security-government, neighbors-live-with, safe, separation-without-other-partners, suspense
review:
3 Stars

Quick brief opinion: This felt like filler to me. I think it's the stereotypical cursed 2nd book in a series. It felt like not that much happened except the h being a little annoying with holding her anger way too long, a bunch of steamy scenes, and a climactic cliffhanger to get us to get the next book. Was it still enough for me to go on to read the next book now? Yes. But I feel like I'm toeing that line of calling it quits if it doesn't pick up soon...

Safety This should be safe for my safety gang gals
]]> 52831200 A Maiden��

Chosen from birth to usher in a new era, Poppy’s life has never been her own. The life of the Maiden is solitary. Never to be touched. Never to be looked upon. Never to be spoken to. Never to experience pleasure. Waiting for the day of her Ascension, she would rather be with the guards, fighting back the evil that took her family, than preparing to be found worthy by the gods. But the choice has never been hers.

A Duty��

The entire kingdom’s future rests on Poppy’s shoulders, something she’s not even quite sure she wants for herself. Because a Maiden has a heart. And a soul. And longing. And when Hawke, a golden-eyed guard honor bound to ensure her Ascension, enters her life, destiny and duty become tangled with desire and need. He incites her anger, makes her question everything she believes in, and tempts her with the forbidden.

A Kingdom��

Forsaken by the gods and feared by mortals, a fallen kingdom is rising once more, determined to take back what they believe is theirs through violence and vengeance. And as the shadow of those cursed draws closer, the line between what is forbidden and what is right becomes blurred. Poppy is not only on the verge of losing her heart and being found unworthy by the gods, but also her life when every blood-soaked thread that holds her world together begins to unravel.]]> 622 Jennifer L. Armentrout 1952457017 NMmomof4 0 4.19 2020
author: Jennifer L. Armentrout
name: NMmomof4
average rating: 4.19
book published: 2020
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2024/04/28
shelves: maybe, duet-trilogy-or-series, fantasy-scifi, freebie-or-loan
review:

]]> 42968173 Until now.

Following a devastating injury that has left him sidelined and stripped of his beloved number 13 jersey, Johnny is struggling to hold onto his dreams. Lost, insecure, and desperately seeking comfort, he sets his sights on unraveling the mystery of the girl with the midnight-blue eyes. With his best friend, Gibsie, by his side, Johnny embarks on his quest of exposing the secrets surrounding the girl who haunts his every waking hour.

Keeping secrets has never been a problem for Shannon. The life she was born into demands nothing less. She knows that demons and evil men don't just exist in fairytales. They exist in her world, too. Traumatized beyond repair after her return from Dublin, and desperate to protect her little brothers, Shannon finds herself falling into the same old cover-up, barely keeping her head above water, as her future unravels before her eyes. Beaten and broken, her walls are up and her trust is shaken. Only one boy has the ability to climb those walls. The boy who owns her heart.

Secrets are exposed and lives are changed forever in Keeping 13, the explosive sequel to the bestselling book, Binding 13. Follow Johnny and Shannon as they try to navigate their way through the aftermath of that fateful rugby match in Dublin.

Falling in love was the easy part, what comes next is the test...

Friendship, first love, rising fame, horrifying secrets, and pain all fuel together as two teenagers from the opposite side of the tracks collide in Keeping 13, the concluding story for Johnny and Shannon.

Based in Ireland, the Boys of Tommen series is bound to captivate and lure you into the world of rugby, love, and teenage heartbreak.


Warning
Some scenes in this book may be extremely upsetting for some readers. Due to its bad language and certain scenes, Keeping 13 is recommended for mature readers.
]]> 938 Chloe Walsh NMmomof4 4 3.5 Stars & 3.5 Overall Duet Stars

Quick Review: This was a looooong duet! I didn't realize it was as long as it was until I was starting to write this review and saw the page count. So, I guess that says I didn't feel like it was too long! However, there were some points that this dragged a little bit. But that very well might be because I'm not a huge fan of the fluff, and this has some. A lot happens in this book, so again, it didn't feel too dragged out and full of unnecessary filler like I often get frustrated with for duets or series. BUT! The ending was nowhere near enough!! After reading 930+ pages in this book and 880+ pages in the first book I dang well should get some good jump ahead future H.E.A.! Didn't happen. I was tempted to drop this to 3 stars for that alone, but I liked the rest enough to keep it at 3.5. Still frustrated with the h being a little too damsel and the OW drama was over done too (especially with everything else they had going on)! But otherwise, I did enjoy the characters and the story. I might, at some point, revisit these characters in another book. But not for a while...

Potential Triggers: [spoilers removed]]]> 4.51 2018
author: Chloe Walsh
name: NMmomof4
average rating: 4.51
book published: 2018
rating: 4
read at: 2024/03/16
date added: 2024/03/18
shelves: duet-trilogy-or-series, freebie-or-loan, 3-5-star, athlete, famous-wealthy-popular, hs, kindle-unlimited, safe, suspense, unlikely-couple
review:
3.5 Stars & 3.5 Overall Duet Stars

Quick Review: This was a looooong duet! I didn't realize it was as long as it was until I was starting to write this review and saw the page count. So, I guess that says I didn't feel like it was too long! However, there were some points that this dragged a little bit. But that very well might be because I'm not a huge fan of the fluff, and this has some. A lot happens in this book, so again, it didn't feel too dragged out and full of unnecessary filler like I often get frustrated with for duets or series. BUT! The ending was nowhere near enough!! After reading 930+ pages in this book and 880+ pages in the first book I dang well should get some good jump ahead future H.E.A.! Didn't happen. I was tempted to drop this to 3 stars for that alone, but I liked the rest enough to keep it at 3.5. Still frustrated with the h being a little too damsel and the OW drama was over done too (especially with everything else they had going on)! But otherwise, I did enjoy the characters and the story. I might, at some point, revisit these characters in another book. But not for a while...

Potential Triggers: [spoilers removed]
]]> 50719471
And it is bait she fully intends to take.

Risking her life to the Tempest Seas, Lara returns to Ithicana with a plan not only to free its king, but for liberating the Bridge Kingdom from her father’s clutches using his own weapons: the sisters whose lives she spared. But not only is the palace inescapable, there are more players in the game than Lara ever realized, enemies and allies switching sides in the fight for crowns, kingdoms, and bridges. But her greatest adversary of all might be the very man she’s trying to free �� the husband she betrayed.

With everything she loves in jeopardy, Lara must decide who �� and what �� she is fighting for: her kingdom, her husband, or herself.]]> 352 Danielle L. Jensen NMmomof4 3 3 Stars

Opinion Breakdown
The Good: The premise, the suspense, the pacing up until the very end.

The Not-So-Good: The chemistry/romantic connection. I get that they had a lot going on otherwise, but I would've liked some more tender moments for the romantic connection to shine through.

The Bad: The ending and lack of closure.

Overall: This was an enjoyable duet. I didn't feel like it was enough though tbh. I was drawn to this because it looked like it was 2 books for their story to be told (which it seems isn't al, that usual for fantasy), but I didn't get nearly enough closure and I definitely wasn't happy with their ending. I guess I could continue on with the series, but I'm disappointed that it didn't end in a place where I felt that was necessary! Any recommendations for a fantasy stand-alone or short series would be appreciated!

Brief Summary of the Storyline: This is Lara and Aren's story. It continues where the last book ended and Lara is now the "traitor queen." When she finds out that Aren has been taken by her father in a more than likely attempt to lure her to him, she is eager to save him. There are some secrets revealed, some kingdom politics they have to navigate, and some suspense...and they get a HFN ending.

Point Of View (POV): This alternated between Lara and Aren's POV.

Overall Pace of Story: Good until the end. I never skimmed and I thought it flowed well otherwise.

Instalove: They're already in love when this begins.

H (Hero) rating: 3 stars. Aren. He was the king of mixed signals. He didn't know what to do with the h and I found it a little frustrating at times.

h (heroine) rating: 3.5 stars. Lara. She was a fighter for sure! "Little cockroach," while such an ugly nickname, was pretty well suited!

Sadness level: Low, no tissues needed

Push/Pull: Yes [spoilers removed]

Heat level: Alright. They have one scene.

Descriptive sex: Yes and No, not super descriptive.

OW (Other Woman)/OM (Other Man) drama: No

Sex scene with OW or OM: No

Cheating: No

Separation: Yes [spoilers removed]

Possible Triggers: Yes [spoilers removed]

Closure: This ends kind of abruptly and with what I would call a HFN ending [spoilers removed]. I was worried when I hit the 91% mark on my kindle app and it wasn't looking like I was going to get the closure I liked (especially after 2 books), and I was sadly right. Nowhere near enough for me!

Safety: This one should be Safe for most safety gang readers
[spoilers removed]]]> 4.21 2020
author: Danielle L. Jensen
name: NMmomof4
average rating: 4.21
book published: 2020
rating: 3
read at: 2024/01/08
date added: 2024/01/08
shelves: 3-star, captivity, contract-or-fake-to-real, famous-wealthy-popular, duet-trilogy-or-series, fantasy-scifi, kindle-unlimited, love-hate, military-security-government, neighbors-live-with, safe, suspense, unlikely-couple
review:
3 Stars

Opinion Breakdown
The Good: The premise, the suspense, the pacing up until the very end.

The Not-So-Good: The chemistry/romantic connection. I get that they had a lot going on otherwise, but I would've liked some more tender moments for the romantic connection to shine through.

The Bad: The ending and lack of closure.

Overall: This was an enjoyable duet. I didn't feel like it was enough though tbh. I was drawn to this because it looked like it was 2 books for their story to be told (which it seems isn't al, that usual for fantasy), but I didn't get nearly enough closure and I definitely wasn't happy with their ending. I guess I could continue on with the series, but I'm disappointed that it didn't end in a place where I felt that was necessary! Any recommendations for a fantasy stand-alone or short series would be appreciated!

Brief Summary of the Storyline: This is Lara and Aren's story. It continues where the last book ended and Lara is now the "traitor queen." When she finds out that Aren has been taken by her father in a more than likely attempt to lure her to him, she is eager to save him. There are some secrets revealed, some kingdom politics they have to navigate, and some suspense...and they get a HFN ending.

Point Of View (POV): This alternated between Lara and Aren's POV.

Overall Pace of Story: Good until the end. I never skimmed and I thought it flowed well otherwise.

Instalove: They're already in love when this begins.

H (Hero) rating: 3 stars. Aren. He was the king of mixed signals. He didn't know what to do with the h and I found it a little frustrating at times.

h (heroine) rating: 3.5 stars. Lara. She was a fighter for sure! "Little cockroach," while such an ugly nickname, was pretty well suited!

Sadness level: Low, no tissues needed

Push/Pull: Yes [spoilers removed]

Heat level: Alright. They have one scene.

Descriptive sex: Yes and No, not super descriptive.

OW (Other Woman)/OM (Other Man) drama: No

Sex scene with OW or OM: No

Cheating: No

Separation: Yes [spoilers removed]

Possible Triggers: Yes [spoilers removed]

Closure: This ends kind of abruptly and with what I would call a HFN ending [spoilers removed]. I was worried when I hit the 91% mark on my kindle app and it wasn't looking like I was going to get the closure I liked (especially after 2 books), and I was sadly right. Nowhere near enough for me!

Safety: This one should be Safe for most safety gang readers
[spoilers removed]
]]> 43383182
But as she infiltrates her new home - a lush paradise surrounded by tempest seas - and comes to know her new husband, Aren, Lara begins to question where the true evil resides. Around her, she sees a kingdom fighting for survival, and in Aren, a man fiercely protective of his people. As her mission drives her to deeper understanding of the fight to possess the bridge, Lara finds the simmering attraction between her and Aren impossible to ignore. Her goal nearly within reach, Lara will have to decide her own fate: Will she be the destroyer of a king or the savior of her people?]]> 354 Danielle L. Jensen 1733090320 NMmomof4 4 3.5 Stars

Opinion Breakdown
The Good: The premise, the world building, and the slow build (and not insta) romance.

The Not-So-Good: How long the h held on to what she was told in her past even though she hated her father bugged me a little.

The Bad: Nothing really "bad" to report so far...

Overall: This was an enjoyable start to the series. As always, I appreciate it when the author throws us right in to the alternate world and doesn't spend too much time explaining ever. It is more like an explain as you go type approach, that I really to enjoy more for this genre. I went on to the next book right away to see what was going to happen...

Brief Summary of the Storyline: This is the start of Lara and Aren's story. It starts when Lara is the lone survivor to her father's 15 year attempt at making the perfect spy out of her and her sisters to marry and infiltrate a country that has the desired bridge in their possession. She goes to the country that she has been taught is nothing but evil and run by a demon, Aren. Soon, things start to be different than she had been told all her life and she starts seeing her father for the evil he is. There is some secrets revealed, some deception, and some feelings being developed...and this ends on a cliffhanger for the next book.

Point Of View (POV): This alternated between Lara and Aren's POV.

Overall Pace of Story: Good. I never skimmed and I thought it flowed well.

Instalove: No, they take a while to develop stronger feelings.

H (Hero) rating: 3.5 stars. Aren. I liked him. I appreciated how he tried to have a relationship with the h even though she was a stranger that he shouldn't trust. I did struggle with how he reacted at the end though.

h (heroine) rating: 3.5 stars. Lara. I liked her. I appreciated her strength, though I wanted her to communicate better at times.

Sadness level: Low, no tissues needed

Push/Pull: Yes [spoilers removed]

Heat level: Alright They have some mild tension, chemistry, and a few scenes -- but not very much and not so much it takes away from the story.

Descriptive sex: Yes

OW (Other Woman)/OM (Other Man) drama: No

Sex scene with OW or OM: No

Cheating: No

Separation: No

Possible Triggers: Yes [spoilers removed]

Closure: This ends on a cliffhanger, ready to start the next book.

Safety: This one should be Safe for most safety gang readers
[spoilers removed]]]> 4.08 2018
author: Danielle L. Jensen
name: NMmomof4
average rating: 4.08
book published: 2018
rating: 4
read at: 2024/01/06
date added: 2024/01/08
shelves: 3-5-star, contract-or-fake-to-real, duet-trilogy-or-series, fantasy-scifi, famous-wealthy-popular, kindle-unlimited, love-hate, military-security-government, neighbors-live-with, safe, unlikely-couple
review:
3.5 Stars

Opinion Breakdown
The Good: The premise, the world building, and the slow build (and not insta) romance.

The Not-So-Good: How long the h held on to what she was told in her past even though she hated her father bugged me a little.

The Bad: Nothing really "bad" to report so far...

Overall: This was an enjoyable start to the series. As always, I appreciate it when the author throws us right in to the alternate world and doesn't spend too much time explaining ever. It is more like an explain as you go type approach, that I really to enjoy more for this genre. I went on to the next book right away to see what was going to happen...

Brief Summary of the Storyline: This is the start of Lara and Aren's story. It starts when Lara is the lone survivor to her father's 15 year attempt at making the perfect spy out of her and her sisters to marry and infiltrate a country that has the desired bridge in their possession. She goes to the country that she has been taught is nothing but evil and run by a demon, Aren. Soon, things start to be different than she had been told all her life and she starts seeing her father for the evil he is. There is some secrets revealed, some deception, and some feelings being developed...and this ends on a cliffhanger for the next book.

Point Of View (POV): This alternated between Lara and Aren's POV.

Overall Pace of Story: Good. I never skimmed and I thought it flowed well.

Instalove: No, they take a while to develop stronger feelings.

H (Hero) rating: 3.5 stars. Aren. I liked him. I appreciated how he tried to have a relationship with the h even though she was a stranger that he shouldn't trust. I did struggle with how he reacted at the end though.

h (heroine) rating: 3.5 stars. Lara. I liked her. I appreciated her strength, though I wanted her to communicate better at times.

Sadness level: Low, no tissues needed

Push/Pull: Yes [spoilers removed]

Heat level: Alright They have some mild tension, chemistry, and a few scenes -- but not very much and not so much it takes away from the story.

Descriptive sex: Yes

OW (Other Woman)/OM (Other Man) drama: No

Sex scene with OW or OM: No

Cheating: No

Separation: No

Possible Triggers: Yes [spoilers removed]

Closure: This ends on a cliffhanger, ready to start the next book.

Safety: This one should be Safe for most safety gang readers
[spoilers removed]
]]> 52749656 There was a girl once. A girl called Tess Snow who sat with me in the dark, waiting to be sold.
There was an owner once. An owner who bought me, entrapped me, and made me his unwilling goddess.��

Eleanor Grace is a naïve dreamer. Trusting and young, she believes her travel-loving boyfriend can save her when her freedom is snatched and sold. Squirrelled away to an island at dawn, delivered to a man even darkness won’t touch, she’s bound by a contract.

Four men.
Four fantasies.
Four pieces of her soul.

Sullivan Sinclair is the giver of fantasies. Any wish, any desire—he is the master at quenching even the filthiest appetites. His private paradise and perfectly trained goddesses are there for one purpose: to ensure every guest is extremely well satisfied.

He bought her.
He trapped her.
She belongs to him.

Dark Romance
First book of the Goddess Isles
75,000 words]]> 261 Pepper Winters NMmomof4 0 3.96 2020
author: Pepper Winters
name: NMmomof4
average rating: 3.96
book published: 2020
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2024/01/07
shelves: maybe, freebie-or-loan, duet-trilogy-or-series
review:

]]> 185358293
I’ve never heard more wasted words in my life. Then again, the gifted counsel never did have much to say that wasn’t. The only members amongst them who speak a thing worth listening to are my parents, the King and Queen of the Stygian’s, the people of Dark Magic.

Unfortunately for me and my brothers, they’ve chosen to play nice instead of sinking their talons into anyone who dares demand a thing from their heirs. In this instance at least.

Every gifted is forced to leave our realm behind after graduation to spend the next four years in a world that isn’t ours, while pretending it’s enough for those with something deeper clawing beneath their skin.

It isn’t. Not by a long shot, and while it’s as boring as I thought it would be, we find ways to entertain ourselves.

A little Fae Dust, the power of persuasion, and it’s a party worthy of a royal �� or four.

That was fun the first year, but it’s my second now, and the minute I got back to campus, I knew it would be worse than before. I felt it, that pull buried beneath my skin, the whisper of a warning deep in my mind I could hear but couldn’t reach.

It starts with a human party and ends with a nightmare.

A five foot, white haired one.

With eyes like ice and a body begging to be bitten, she’s a problem.

A giftless one.

That’s right, she’s human.

Worthless.

And if the shadow circling my soul is telling me what I think it is �� she belongs to it.

My new obsession �� is my fated mate.

But there is no way the fates would give me, a Lord of Rathe, a heir to the throne of dark magic, a giftless girl.

I’ll prove they got it wrong.

That she’s not mine.

If I’m lucky, I’ll destroy her in the process.]]> 320 Meagan Brandy NMmomof4 0 3.76 2023
author: Meagan Brandy
name: NMmomof4
average rating: 3.76
book published: 2023
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2023/11/04
shelves: maybe, duet-trilogy-or-series, kindle-unlimited
review:

]]> 23766634
She has left the Night Court - and her High Lord - and is playing a deadly game of deceit. In the Spring Court, Tamlin is making deals with the invading king threatening to bring Prythian to its knees, and Feyre is determined to uncover his plans. But to do so she must weave a web of lies, and one slip may spell doom not only for Feyre, but for her world as well.

As mighty armies grapple for power, Feyre must decide who to trust amongst the dazzling and lethal High Lords - and hunt for allies in unexpected places.

BUT WHILE WAR RAGES, IT IS HER HEART THAT WILL FACE THE GREATEST BATTLE.

THE THRILLING THIRD BOOK IN #1 NEW YORK TIMES BESTSELLING FANTASY SERIES FROM SARAH J. MAAS.]]> 705 Sarah J. Maas 1408857901 NMmomof4 3 3 Stars (Originally Read 4/29/2019)

3 Stars (Re-Read 10/11/2023)

Overall Opinion: This was enjoyable, but not as much as the first two books. I had a lot of outside distractions going on that took away my valued reading time (]]> 4.41 2017
author: Sarah J. Maas
name: NMmomof4
average rating: 4.41
book published: 2017
rating: 3
read at: 2023/10/11
date added: 2023/10/11
shelves: 3-star, duet-trilogy-or-series, family-aspect, fantasy-scifi, military-security-government, safe, separation-without-other-partners
review:
3 Stars (Originally Read 4/29/2019)

3 Stars (Re-Read 10/11/2023)

Overall Opinion: This was enjoyable, but not as much as the first two books. I had a lot of outside distractions going on that took away my valued reading time (
]]> 35560673
She shattered his reality.

They dared each other...to the brink of madness.

A dark and twisted maze awaits criminal psychologist London Noble when she falls for her patient, convicted serial killer, Grayson Pierce Sullivan. As she unravels the traps, her sanity tested with each game, she's forced to acknowledge the true evil in the world around her.

*Trigger warning]]> 304 Trisha Wolfe NMmomof4 0 3.64 2017
author: Trisha Wolfe
name: NMmomof4
average rating: 3.64
book published: 2017
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2023/09/22
shelves: maybe, freebie-or-loan, duet-trilogy-or-series
review:

]]> 16096824
Dragged to a magical kingdom for the murder of a faerie, Feyre discovers that her captor, his face obscured by a jewelled mask, is hiding far more than his piercing green eyes would suggest. Feyre's presence at the court is closely guarded, and as she begins to learn why, her feelings for him turn from hostility to passion and the faerie lands become an even more dangerous place. Feyre must fight to break an ancient curse, or she will lose him forever.]]> 419 Sarah J. Maas 1619634449 NMmomof4 4 3.5 Stars (Originally Read 4/17/2019)

3 Stars (Re-Read 5/7/2023)

Overall Opinion: This was an enjoyable beauty and the beast-esque type magical story! I appreciated the take-it-as-it-comes sort of approach to the world building. I think that sometimes stories like this can be weighed down too much with the world building details, so I liked that this had a good flow in how it introduced all the aspects of the world. I really enjoyed the characters and I actually liked the suspenseful scenes! I think the relationship was sweet but could've been much better, and the story did seem to drag a few times. But! I went into this knowing I was committing to a trilogy, so on to the next (A Court of Mist and Fury)...

Re-Read Note: I started this as an audiobook because I have been tempted to re-read this for some time now. Especially since the fourth book A Court of Frost and Starlight was released after I read this series the first time and I've still yet to read it. I didn't like Tamlin as much as I did before but it is probably because I have read this before and remember a good bit of what is to come (at least relationship wise). On to the next because this seems to be a great audiobook series for my work commute and ebook to read in between when I get antsy with my slow pacing.

Brief Summary of the Storyline: This is Feyre and Tamlin's story. Feyre is out hunting to help feed her starving family and ends up killing a faerie. What she doesn't expect is to have her house broken into by another faerie, Tamlin, who is demanding that she pays her life across the wall in faerie territory in payment for the life she took and breaking the treaty between fairies and humans. Tamlin is the lord of his land, and there is a lot of mystery surrounding it that Feyre is eager to learn. After spending more and more time together, they start to develop stronger feelings for one another and fall in love, but there are evil forces working against them. There are a few funny moments, a few sweet and sexy times, and some suspenseful scenes....and they get a HFN ending with their story continued in the next two books.

POV: This was told in Feyre's POV.

Overall Pace of Story: Alright. I did feel like this was a little too slow in some parts, but in other parts the pages just flew by. I never skimmed though.

Instalove: No, they take a while to develop stronger feelings. Kind of a hate-to-love scenario at least for the h.

H rating: 4 stars. Tamlin. I liked him. I appreciated how he cared for the h and didn't hide it.

h rating: 5 stars. Feyre. I loved her! She was a great combination of loyal, protective, smart and feisty!

Sadness level: Low, no tissues needed

Push/Pull: Yes [spoilers removed]

Heat level: Moderate. They have some alright tension, chemistry, and scenes -- but not so much it takes away from the story and I think it could've been better.

Descriptive sex: Yes

OW/OM drama: Yes [spoilers removed]

Sex scene with OW or OM: No

Cheating: Not technically [spoilers removed]

Separation: Yes [spoilers removed]

Possible Triggers: Yes [spoilers removed]

Closure: This ends in a pretty good place with what I would call a HFN ending. If you really didn't want to continue on with the trilogy for some reason, I think you can probably get away with just reading this book and feel alright with where they're at -- because there is no cliffhanger. The other 2 books have been released already though.

Safety: This one should be either Safe or Safe with exception for most safety gang readers depending on personal preferences.
[spoilers removed]]]> 4.17 2015
author: Sarah J. Maas
name: NMmomof4
average rating: 4.17
book published: 2015
rating: 4
read at: 2023/05/07
date added: 2023/05/07
shelves: 3-5-star, captivity, disordered-mc, duet-trilogy-or-series, famous-wealthy-popular, fantasy-scifi, freebie-or-loan, military-security-government, neighbors-live-with, safe, safe-with-exception, separation-without-other-partners, suspense, unlikely-couple
review:
3.5 Stars (Originally Read 4/17/2019)

3 Stars (Re-Read 5/7/2023)

Overall Opinion: This was an enjoyable beauty and the beast-esque type magical story! I appreciated the take-it-as-it-comes sort of approach to the world building. I think that sometimes stories like this can be weighed down too much with the world building details, so I liked that this had a good flow in how it introduced all the aspects of the world. I really enjoyed the characters and I actually liked the suspenseful scenes! I think the relationship was sweet but could've been much better, and the story did seem to drag a few times. But! I went into this knowing I was committing to a trilogy, so on to the next (A Court of Mist and Fury)...

Re-Read Note: I started this as an audiobook because I have been tempted to re-read this for some time now. Especially since the fourth book A Court of Frost and Starlight was released after I read this series the first time and I've still yet to read it. I didn't like Tamlin as much as I did before but it is probably because I have read this before and remember a good bit of what is to come (at least relationship wise). On to the next because this seems to be a great audiobook series for my work commute and ebook to read in between when I get antsy with my slow pacing.

Brief Summary of the Storyline: This is Feyre and Tamlin's story. Feyre is out hunting to help feed her starving family and ends up killing a faerie. What she doesn't expect is to have her house broken into by another faerie, Tamlin, who is demanding that she pays her life across the wall in faerie territory in payment for the life she took and breaking the treaty between fairies and humans. Tamlin is the lord of his land, and there is a lot of mystery surrounding it that Feyre is eager to learn. After spending more and more time together, they start to develop stronger feelings for one another and fall in love, but there are evil forces working against them. There are a few funny moments, a few sweet and sexy times, and some suspenseful scenes....and they get a HFN ending with their story continued in the next two books.

POV: This was told in Feyre's POV.

Overall Pace of Story: Alright. I did feel like this was a little too slow in some parts, but in other parts the pages just flew by. I never skimmed though.

Instalove: No, they take a while to develop stronger feelings. Kind of a hate-to-love scenario at least for the h.

H rating: 4 stars. Tamlin. I liked him. I appreciated how he cared for the h and didn't hide it.

h rating: 5 stars. Feyre. I loved her! She was a great combination of loyal, protective, smart and feisty!

Sadness level: Low, no tissues needed

Push/Pull: Yes [spoilers removed]

Heat level: Moderate. They have some alright tension, chemistry, and scenes -- but not so much it takes away from the story and I think it could've been better.

Descriptive sex: Yes

OW/OM drama: Yes [spoilers removed]

Sex scene with OW or OM: No

Cheating: Not technically [spoilers removed]

Separation: Yes [spoilers removed]

Possible Triggers: Yes [spoilers removed]

Closure: This ends in a pretty good place with what I would call a HFN ending. If you really didn't want to continue on with the trilogy for some reason, I think you can probably get away with just reading this book and feel alright with where they're at -- because there is no cliffhanger. The other 2 books have been released already though.

Safety: This one should be either Safe or Safe with exception for most safety gang readers depending on personal preferences.
[spoilers removed]
]]> 61932377
I like long walks on the beach.

A neat scotch.

And I like stealing from rich losers who have no idea the town’s Big Bad Wolf screwed their wives six ways to Sunday.

Such a scandal, indeed.

I have one end goal—to get out of this town.

I’m a loner. And that’s by choice.

People aren’t really my thing. That is…until I meet her. The little firecracker who sets more than my soul on fire.

No one has ever stuck around.

But Darcie is different. She seems to be as broken as me, and when our worlds collide, nothing but trouble looms.

Watch out, baby…down the rabbit hole we go.]]> 270 Monica James NMmomof4 0 maybe, duet-trilogy-or-series 3.91 2022
author: Monica James
name: NMmomof4
average rating: 3.91
book published: 2022
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2023/03/09
shelves: maybe, duet-trilogy-or-series
review:

]]> 60120173
Until he has to play nice with his enemy.

Drew Rockland is the epitome of calm and collected on the mound. As a veteran player, he knows what it takes to pitch under pressure while keeping his emotions in check.

Until he faces Aron and loses his cool.

Aron’s showboating and Drew’s old-school ballplayer demeanor instantly puts them at odds, resulting in an all-out brawl on the field and a suspension. After the fight, all should have been forgotten, but an unexpected trade places them on the same team �� and in the same apartment.

Off the field, there is no one to pull them apart ...

But maybe they prefer it that way.

Traded is a MM enemies-to-lovers sports romance with first times and secret hook-ups that will leave you begging for more. And good thing, since this is book 1 in a duet and their story will conclude in book 2.]]> 224 Kimberly Knight NMmomof4 3 2.5 Stars

Opinion Breakdown
The Good: The premise -- the idea of an enemy-to-lovers-bi-awakening sports romance!

The Not-So-Good: The fact that they were both fine with changing their sexuality. No conflict there! I also thought the ex drama was a little OTT and eye roll inducing.

The Bad: The connection. I didn't feel it. I didn't connect to either character and I didn't feel their connection to each other. I didn't feel anything except maybe some boredom here.

Overall:I struggled with this one. I like the idea of dual bi-awakenings, so if anyone has any recommendations -- please send them my way! Sadly, this was not the best and I don't think I'll continue on with the duet (I started skimming the second book and it confirmed my decision)

Brief Summary of the Storyline: This is Drew and Aron's story. They're both pro baseball player that come to punches on the field and then are shocked to find out that they've both have been traded to the same team. As part of the agreement, they are to live together to show that they can be professional and not let the fight get in the way of their jobs. Thee are some new lines crossed, some sexy times, and this ends on a cliffhanger.

Point Of View (POV): This alternated between Drew and Aron's POV.

Overall Pace of Story: Alright. I never skimmed and I thought it flowed well for the most part, but there were times that was tempted to skim because it wasn't holding my attention.

Instalove: No, they take a while to develop stronger feelings.

H1 (Hero #1) rating: 3 stars. Drew. He was okay. I didn't feel like we really got to know him on a deeper level. He even felt a little cold (or boring) at times.

H2 (Hero #2) rating: 3 stars. Aron. He was alright. He, too, didn't seem to be all that deep as a character even though it addresses themes like him being damaged, but it didn't quite evoke the feelings.

Sadness level: Low, no tissues needed

Push/Pull: Yes [spoilers removed]

Heat level: Mild. They have some tension, chemistry, and scenes -- but not very much and not so much it takes away from the story.

Descriptive sex: Yes

OW (Other Woman)/OM (Other Man) drama: Yes [spoilers removed]

Sex scene with OW or OM: Yes, but not super descriptive [spoilers removed]

Cheating: Not by mcs[spoilers removed]

Separation: Yes [spoilers removed]

Possible Triggers: Yes [spoilers removed]

Closure: This ends in a cliffhanger with the next book, Outed, already available.

Safety: This one should be either Safe or Safe with exception for most safety gang readers depending on personal preferences.
[spoilers removed]]]> 3.99 2022
author: Kimberly Knight
name: NMmomof4
average rating: 3.99
book published: 2022
rating: 3
read at: 2023/01/18
date added: 2023/01/19
shelves: 2-5-star, athlete, famous-wealthy-popular, duet-trilogy-or-series, love-hate, kindle-unlimited, neighbors-live-with, safe, safe-with-exception, separation-without-other-partners, unlikely-couple, workplace
review:
2.5 Stars

Opinion Breakdown
The Good: The premise -- the idea of an enemy-to-lovers-bi-awakening sports romance!

The Not-So-Good: The fact that they were both fine with changing their sexuality. No conflict there! I also thought the ex drama was a little OTT and eye roll inducing.

The Bad: The connection. I didn't feel it. I didn't connect to either character and I didn't feel their connection to each other. I didn't feel anything except maybe some boredom here.

Overall:I struggled with this one. I like the idea of dual bi-awakenings, so if anyone has any recommendations -- please send them my way! Sadly, this was not the best and I don't think I'll continue on with the duet (I started skimming the second book and it confirmed my decision)

Brief Summary of the Storyline: This is Drew and Aron's story. They're both pro baseball player that come to punches on the field and then are shocked to find out that they've both have been traded to the same team. As part of the agreement, they are to live together to show that they can be professional and not let the fight get in the way of their jobs. Thee are some new lines crossed, some sexy times, and this ends on a cliffhanger.

Point Of View (POV): This alternated between Drew and Aron's POV.

Overall Pace of Story: Alright. I never skimmed and I thought it flowed well for the most part, but there were times that was tempted to skim because it wasn't holding my attention.

Instalove: No, they take a while to develop stronger feelings.

H1 (Hero #1) rating: 3 stars. Drew. He was okay. I didn't feel like we really got to know him on a deeper level. He even felt a little cold (or boring) at times.

H2 (Hero #2) rating: 3 stars. Aron. He was alright. He, too, didn't seem to be all that deep as a character even though it addresses themes like him being damaged, but it didn't quite evoke the feelings.

Sadness level: Low, no tissues needed

Push/Pull: Yes [spoilers removed]

Heat level: Mild. They have some tension, chemistry, and scenes -- but not very much and not so much it takes away from the story.

Descriptive sex: Yes

OW (Other Woman)/OM (Other Man) drama: Yes [spoilers removed]

Sex scene with OW or OM: Yes, but not super descriptive [spoilers removed]

Cheating: Not by mcs[spoilers removed]

Separation: Yes [spoilers removed]

Possible Triggers: Yes [spoilers removed]

Closure: This ends in a cliffhanger with the next book, Outed, already available.

Safety: This one should be either Safe or Safe with exception for most safety gang readers depending on personal preferences.
[spoilers removed]
]]> 26856316 Librarian's Note: This is an alternate cover edition for ASIN: B015OBIIVC

I've always been a good girl.

I've only done two really bad things in my life--secretly live in the maid's quarters of my beloved grandmother's foreclosed beach house, and lie to get a job as a personal assistant to billionaire Blake Carson.

My enemy, my lover, my savior.

He's only two out of the three, if only I can figure out which two before I end up on the streets or in jail.

Or worse.

A SIX PART SERIAL with dual points of view, lots of bad words, the creative use of glass-walled rooms, and a beach house that holds a whole lot of secrets. There are all sorts of cliffs in these books, some even include actual rocks. You have been warned.]]> 156 Cari Quinn NMmomof4 0 3.95 2015
author: Cari Quinn
name: NMmomof4
average rating: 3.95
book published: 2015
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2023/01/02
shelves: duet-trilogy-or-series, gonna-pass, meh-reviews-removed-sample, too-short
review:

]]> 23561961 It started with unspoken animosity. The bitter bite of jealousy. And now its full blown hate.

It was during my first football game that I first felt the first chill of hate. I looked it right in the eyes and felt its sticky tentacles reach out for me. I’d never experienced something so cold and empty before.

The effect of that look lingered, like an unspoken promise, long after it was gone.

Becoming a couple �� becoming the other half of a campus celebrity wasn’t easy. I let down walls guarding my heart and he looked past my glasses and accident prone tendencies. Romeo and I are an unlikely match, a #nerd and a jock. But we made it.

And we’re happy.

Zach doesn’t want us to be happy. He wants Romeo to pay for getting him kicked out of Omega and for the night he spent in jail. He’s going to use anything and everything he can to get his revenge. Including me.

As the weather on campus grows cold and the days become dark, revenge becomes the center of someone’s life and the happiness Romeo and I worked so hard for is threatened.

I can’t help but worry that our love is going to be overshadowed by hate.]]> Cambria Hebert 1494563940 NMmomof4 0 4.19 2015
author: Cambria Hebert
name: NMmomof4
average rating: 4.19
book published: 2015
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2023/01/01
shelves: maybe, kindle-unlimited, duet-trilogy-or-series
review:

]]> 25478569
To Dylan, Brooke is like an intricate guitar riff he can’t resist. One he’d gladly play over and over.

Lost in his magnetizing presence, Brooke isn’t in any rush to let their song come to an end.

Meeting [him] was fate.

Pursuing [her] was a choice.

Falling in love was out of [their] control.

Sometimes the best way to keep a secret is to pretend there isn't one.]]> N.A. Alcorn NMmomof4 0 4.25 2015
author: N.A. Alcorn
name: NMmomof4
average rating: 4.25
book published: 2015
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2023/01/01
shelves: kindle-unlimited, duet-trilogy-or-series, gonna-pass, meh-reviews-removed-sample
review:

]]> 57825462 An emotional, sexy, forbidden romance! Scoring with Him is the first novel in the utterly addictive Men of Summer Series!

I’m a rookie, in every sense of the word. But even though I have a wicked crush on the sexy shortstop on my baseball team, I won’t give in to my fantasies about him.

I’m here in the majors for the first time to play ball. Not to experience my first time with a man.

Trouble is, Declan Steele is sexy, flirty and now he’s my new workout partner. We’re spending mornings together in the gym, getting to know each other. Our connection is powerful �� maybe because we each have our fair share of secrets and scars. Ones we'll both fight to protect.

I've got far too much trouble in my past to want to bring any into my present, no matter how much I long to sneak into his room at night and ask him a question.

But soon I can’t keep all this desire under wraps.

I take chances for a living, so I take the biggest chance one night at spring training when I send him the world’s sexiest selfie.

Right along with a question �� would you be my first?

But falling for my teammate wasn't part of the plan.

Scoring with Him is book one in the utterly addictive Men of Summer series. This romance between two professional athletes spans five epic years and continues in Winning With Him. ]]> 400 Lauren Blakely NMmomof4 0 4.02 2021
author: Lauren Blakely
name: NMmomof4
average rating: 4.02
book published: 2021
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2022/12/24
shelves: maybe, freebie-or-loan, duet-trilogy-or-series
review:

]]> 16181775
Don Tillman, professor of genetics, has never been on a second date. He is a man who can count all his friends on the fingers of one hand, whose lifelong difficulty with social rituals has convinced him that he is simply not wired for romance. So when an acquaintance informs him that he would make a “wonderful�� husband, his first reaction is shock. Yet he must concede to the statistical probability that there is someone for everyone, and he embarks upon The Wife Project. In the orderly, evidence-based manner with which he approaches all things, Don sets out to find the perfect partner. She will be punctual and logical—most definitely not a barmaid, a smoker, a drinker, or a late-arriver.

Yet Rosie Jarman is all these things. She is also beguiling, fiery, intelligent—and on a quest of her own. She is looking for her biological father, a search that a certain DNA expert might be able to help her with. Don's Wife Project takes a back burner to the Father Project and an unlikely relationship blooms, forcing the scientifically minded geneticist to confront the spontaneous whirlwind that is Rosie—and the realization that love is not always what looks good on paper.

The Rosie Project is a moving and hilarious novel for anyone who has ever tenaciously gone after life or love in the face of overwhelming challenges.]]> 292 Graeme Simsion 1476729085 NMmomof4 4 3.5 Stars

Opinion Breakdown
The Good: The H. The premise. The humor.

The Not-So-Good: The chemistry. I know that since we were only given Don's POV and he was probably on the spectrum, that this contributed to his issues with intimacy or emotions -- but I felt very minimal chemistry between these two beyond friends. The only heat was kisses, which is fine! But even they felt a little flat. I also think it could've been so much better if we got some of Rosie's POV. What was she thinking of Don as their relationship progressed? That was a huge question that I don't feel ever really was answered.

The Bad: The ending. We have all this time with them building up to being together and then we don't actually experience it on page?! I loved the time we do get of them spending time together in NY, but why not allow us to experience them as a couple and navigating that change in their dynamic? I was really, really disappointed with this ending.

Overall: This had a ton of potential for me! I didn't read reviews before jumping in because I didn't want to get my hopes up, especially because this had an Aspie character that I always tend to love in my stories. I came across it because it was recommended to me by a GR friend. I'm happy I read it, I did enjoy it, I just was left disappointed in the end that it wasn't as good as I felt it could be.

Brief Summary of the Storyline: This is Don and Rosie's story. Don is a quirky genetics professor that has decided to start the "wife project" and find his perfect partner. He creates a survey that allows him to find the perfect candidate. When his best friend helps him and sends Rosie his way, he is confused but intrigued by the barmaid that doesn't seem to check any of his boxes. Rosie needs some help finding her biological father and Don is eager to help her out. There are some funny moments, some sweet scenes, and some misunderstandings...and they get a HEA ending.

Point Of View (POV): This was told in Don's POV.

Overall Pace of Story: Good until the the very end. I never skimmed and I thought it mostly flowed well.

Instalove: No, they take a while to develop stronger feelings.

H (Hero) rating: 4 stars. Don. I liked him! I love my aspies and he had those tendencies down! I appreciated how he cared for others, but I was sad when he felt like he was unloveable or unable to have a life with someone.

h (heroine) rating: 3 stars. Rosie. While I liked how she took the H as he was, I also don't feel like we got to know her as much as I would've liked.

Sadness level: Low/moderate. This hit close to home for me, but I don't know if others will connect enough to be emotional.

Push/Pull: Yes [spoilers removed]

Heat level: Low. A kiss and talk of potential sex is as far as it gets.

Descriptive sex: No

OW (Other Woman)/OM (Other Man) drama: Not really

Sex scene with OW or OM: No

Cheating: Not between mcs

Separation: They weren't together for the times apart to be really considered a "separation"

Possible Triggers: Yes [spoilers removed]

Closure: This ends with what I would technically call a HEA, but it wasn't anywhere near the amount of closure that I wanted! I felt like I was fully invested in these two and then to not get to experience them together as an actual couple?! I wasn't okay with just the jump ahead HEA.

Safety: This one should be Safe for most safety gang readers
[spoilers removed]]]> 4.00 2013
author: Graeme Simsion
name: NMmomof4
average rating: 4.00
book published: 2013
rating: 4
read at: 2022/10/29
date added: 2022/10/29
shelves: duet-trilogy-or-series, freebie-or-loan, 3-5-star, college, disordered-mc, friends-to-lovers, safe, workplace, unlikely-couple
review:
3.5 Stars

Opinion Breakdown
The Good: The H. The premise. The humor.

The Not-So-Good: The chemistry. I know that since we were only given Don's POV and he was probably on the spectrum, that this contributed to his issues with intimacy or emotions -- but I felt very minimal chemistry between these two beyond friends. The only heat was kisses, which is fine! But even they felt a little flat. I also think it could've been so much better if we got some of Rosie's POV. What was she thinking of Don as their relationship progressed? That was a huge question that I don't feel ever really was answered.

The Bad: The ending. We have all this time with them building up to being together and then we don't actually experience it on page?! I loved the time we do get of them spending time together in NY, but why not allow us to experience them as a couple and navigating that change in their dynamic? I was really, really disappointed with this ending.

Overall: This had a ton of potential for me! I didn't read reviews before jumping in because I didn't want to get my hopes up, especially because this had an Aspie character that I always tend to love in my stories. I came across it because it was recommended to me by a GR friend. I'm happy I read it, I did enjoy it, I just was left disappointed in the end that it wasn't as good as I felt it could be.

Brief Summary of the Storyline: This is Don and Rosie's story. Don is a quirky genetics professor that has decided to start the "wife project" and find his perfect partner. He creates a survey that allows him to find the perfect candidate. When his best friend helps him and sends Rosie his way, he is confused but intrigued by the barmaid that doesn't seem to check any of his boxes. Rosie needs some help finding her biological father and Don is eager to help her out. There are some funny moments, some sweet scenes, and some misunderstandings...and they get a HEA ending.

Point Of View (POV): This was told in Don's POV.

Overall Pace of Story: Good until the the very end. I never skimmed and I thought it mostly flowed well.

Instalove: No, they take a while to develop stronger feelings.

H (Hero) rating: 4 stars. Don. I liked him! I love my aspies and he had those tendencies down! I appreciated how he cared for others, but I was sad when he felt like he was unloveable or unable to have a life with someone.

h (heroine) rating: 3 stars. Rosie. While I liked how she took the H as he was, I also don't feel like we got to know her as much as I would've liked.

Sadness level: Low/moderate. This hit close to home for me, but I don't know if others will connect enough to be emotional.

Push/Pull: Yes [spoilers removed]

Heat level: Low. A kiss and talk of potential sex is as far as it gets.

Descriptive sex: No

OW (Other Woman)/OM (Other Man) drama: Not really

Sex scene with OW or OM: No

Cheating: Not between mcs

Separation: They weren't together for the times apart to be really considered a "separation"

Possible Triggers: Yes [spoilers removed]

Closure: This ends with what I would technically call a HEA, but it wasn't anywhere near the amount of closure that I wanted! I felt like I was fully invested in these two and then to not get to experience them together as an actual couple?! I wasn't okay with just the jump ahead HEA.

Safety: This one should be Safe for most safety gang readers
[spoilers removed]
]]> 61379335 Carter Morelli survived a dark childhood and dangerous missions. But when he emergency lands a small aircraft on the ocean, he faces something worse: having someone depend on him. He has to keep innocent June Porter safe on the deserted island.

Except they aren’t alone here��

A man hides among the broad leaves. He’s almost feral.

There are secrets in his cabin. Desire, too.

Carter doesn’t want to care about beautiful June. He doesn’t want to care about the mysterious and sensual man who’s almost part of the wilderness.

Scorching chemistry draws all three of them deeper.

They already survived the plane crash, but will they survive the fall?

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

WARNING: This book is intended for readers eighteen years old and over. It contains material that some readers could find disturbing. Enter at your own risk...]]> 340 Skye Warren NMmomof4 3 2.5 Stars

Opinion Breakdown
The Good: The overall premise and the one scene full of sexual tension and steam.

The Not-So-Good: The characters. While we did get some backstory on them, it didn't feel nearly enough. I don't think I connected with any of them. Also, Theo was a little confusing at the very end (see below). I wouldn't say that I necessarily really liked any of the three mcs tbh.

The Bad: The amount of inner dialogue. It felt like that was all there was! I realize there was a time when the h was [spoilers removed], but it was too much inner dialogue even before and after that! It even felt repetitive (especially with Carter)! Now that I know there is a third book, I feel as though this was done to draw out the story and get another book out of it. I'm probably being Bitter Betty here, but idk why half of it was necessary if that wasn't the end goal. Quality over quantity is the way to go IMO!

Overall: I'm super frustrated with myself for not realizing this had another book! I even waited until this one came out thinking it was the conclusion before reading the prequel. Tbh, overall, I wasn't a huge fan and while the sexy tension and times were hot (between the Hs especially), I don't think it was enough to entice me to read the third book...

Brief Summary of the Storyline: This is Carter, June, and Theo's story. I'm going to keep this vague because I don't want to ruin it. I do recommend reading the prequel first, The Crash. This continues Carter and June's story after their crash and they encounter some danger in the jungle that has them relying on a stranger, Theo, for help. Theo has been isolated on this island since he was a kid and is unsure about the strangers, but also drawn to them. There are some suspenseful scenes, some hot sexy times, and this ends on a cliffy.

Point Of View (POV): This alternated between Carter, June, and Theo's POV.

Overall Pace of Story: Eh, it took me a really long time to read this. While I did have a lot of personal stuff going on to prevent me from being able to read, I also wasn't all that eager to make time and get back to this either.

Instalove: No. Instalust for all three? Absolutely. To the point it was actually a little ridiculous.

H1 (Hero #1) rating: 3.5 stars. Carter. I appreciated his struggle to do his job while being drawn to these two, but his character wasn't all that relatable tbh.

H2 (Hero #2) rating: 3 stars. Theo. He was introduced later and I don't feel like I really got to know him. The Theo with Carter and the Theo in his own thoughts were different than the Theo at the end, so I'm just not sure about him.

h (heroine) rating: 3.5 stars. June. I appreciated her effort to get past her fears and her upbringing was sad, but I don't think I connected that much with her either.

Sadness level: Low, no tissues needed

Push/Pull: No, just internal

Heat level: Hot. They have some hot tension, chemistry, and scenes -- but not so much it takes away from the story. [spoilers removed]

Descriptive sex: Yes

OW (Other Woman)/OM (Other Man) drama: No

Sex scene with OW or OM: No [spoilers removed]

Cheating: No

Separation: No

Possible Triggers: Yes [spoilers removed]

Closure: This ends on a cliffy that I wasn't expecting because I didn't realize there was a third book or that it hadn't been released yet. It looks like it'll be available in December...

Safety: This one should be Safe with exception for most safety gang readers depending on personal preferences
[spoilers removed]]]> 3.94 2022
author: Skye Warren
name: NMmomof4
average rating: 3.94
book published: 2022
rating: 3
read at: 2022/10/23
date added: 2022/10/23
shelves: 2-5-star, artist-mc, duet-trilogy-or-series, famous-wealthy-popular, freebie-or-loan, military-security-government, neighbors-live-with, safe-with-exception, suspense
review:
2.5 Stars

Opinion Breakdown
The Good: The overall premise and the one scene full of sexual tension and steam.

The Not-So-Good: The characters. While we did get some backstory on them, it didn't feel nearly enough. I don't think I connected with any of them. Also, Theo was a little confusing at the very end (see below). I wouldn't say that I necessarily really liked any of the three mcs tbh.

The Bad: The amount of inner dialogue. It felt like that was all there was! I realize there was a time when the h was [spoilers removed], but it was too much inner dialogue even before and after that! It even felt repetitive (especially with Carter)! Now that I know there is a third book, I feel as though this was done to draw out the story and get another book out of it. I'm probably being Bitter Betty here, but idk why half of it was necessary if that wasn't the end goal. Quality over quantity is the way to go IMO!

Overall: I'm super frustrated with myself for not realizing this had another book! I even waited until this one came out thinking it was the conclusion before reading the prequel. Tbh, overall, I wasn't a huge fan and while the sexy tension and times were hot (between the Hs especially), I don't think it was enough to entice me to read the third book...

Brief Summary of the Storyline: This is Carter, June, and Theo's story. I'm going to keep this vague because I don't want to ruin it. I do recommend reading the prequel first, The Crash. This continues Carter and June's story after their crash and they encounter some danger in the jungle that has them relying on a stranger, Theo, for help. Theo has been isolated on this island since he was a kid and is unsure about the strangers, but also drawn to them. There are some suspenseful scenes, some hot sexy times, and this ends on a cliffy.

Point Of View (POV): This alternated between Carter, June, and Theo's POV.

Overall Pace of Story: Eh, it took me a really long time to read this. While I did have a lot of personal stuff going on to prevent me from being able to read, I also wasn't all that eager to make time and get back to this either.

Instalove: No. Instalust for all three? Absolutely. To the point it was actually a little ridiculous.

H1 (Hero #1) rating: 3.5 stars. Carter. I appreciated his struggle to do his job while being drawn to these two, but his character wasn't all that relatable tbh.

H2 (Hero #2) rating: 3 stars. Theo. He was introduced later and I don't feel like I really got to know him. The Theo with Carter and the Theo in his own thoughts were different than the Theo at the end, so I'm just not sure about him.

h (heroine) rating: 3.5 stars. June. I appreciated her effort to get past her fears and her upbringing was sad, but I don't think I connected that much with her either.

Sadness level: Low, no tissues needed

Push/Pull: No, just internal

Heat level: Hot. They have some hot tension, chemistry, and scenes -- but not so much it takes away from the story. [spoilers removed]

Descriptive sex: Yes

OW (Other Woman)/OM (Other Man) drama: No

Sex scene with OW or OM: No [spoilers removed]

Cheating: No

Separation: No

Possible Triggers: Yes [spoilers removed]

Closure: This ends on a cliffy that I wasn't expecting because I didn't realize there was a third book or that it hadn't been released yet. It looks like it'll be available in December...

Safety: This one should be Safe with exception for most safety gang readers depending on personal preferences
[spoilers removed]
]]> 61038301 A treacherous bride.

A heartbroken groom.

Is their marriage over before it’s begun?

Her deceit discovered, Faraine finds herself trapped in the Shadow Realm at the mercy of her new husband. She’s surrounded by enemies, far from any allies, and her best bet for survival is to convince Vor to send her home.

But to do so means to give up on the alliance. Which would spell disaster for her people.

With the tremors growing worse and poison spreading through his realm, Vor is more desperate than ever to find a solution. Only, it cannot involve his wife. Vor wants nothing to do with the woman he has inadvertently married. At one time, he thought he might love her, but now? How can love flourish where trust is broken?

When circumstances require them to spend more time together, however, Vor’s blood is stirred in ways he doesn’t like to acknowledge.

Can two lost hearts find healing and hope in one another? Or is their love already poisoned beyond recovery?

Book two of this epic romantasy trilogy, Vow of the Shadow King will sweep you away in a tale of betrayal, heartbreak, and forbidden love. Perfect for readers looking for their ideal “book husband�� and a slow-burn romance ready to ignite!]]> 502 Sylvia Mercedes NMmomof4 0 3.82 2022
author: Sylvia Mercedes
name: NMmomof4
average rating: 3.82
book published: 2022
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2022/09/18
shelves: maybe, duet-trilogy-or-series, kindle-unlimited
review:

]]> 56472122 I’m a fraud. Or an imposter. I’m certainly a hypocrite.

I offer advice for a living. Encourage my patients to make wise decisions—help them help themselves to walk through life stronger, healthier, happier.

Isn’t that the goal? To live our best lives?

If only I practiced what I preach.

I wasn’t always like this. Every move I make lately is the opposite of smart. These questionable life choices are a new development.

They started the day a certain Vitale barged into my life.

Brand Vitale might look like a hero to the rest of the world, but looks can be deceiving.

I’m driven by obsession for a man who’s turning out to be dark, dangerous, and downright depraved.

And I don’t care.

Because, sometimes, depraved, debauched—hell, or even deathly—is the only option.]]> 315 Brynne Asher NMmomof4 0 4.31 2021
author: Brynne Asher
name: NMmomof4
average rating: 4.31
book published: 2021
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2022/09/07
shelves: maybe, duet-trilogy-or-series, kindle-unlimited
review:

]]> 44012999 This is the final book in the two-book duet. Book one must be read first.
One man thinks I'm a saint.
The other thinks I'm a sinner.
One man lives in the public eye.
The other lurks in the shadows.
One man wants to use me for his own needs.
The other wants to use me for his revenge.

One man will get what's coming to him.
The other will get what he deserves.

They told me good girls get rewarded.
But I've been bad. Very bad.

I made a deal with The Devil...and I liked it.

Please note: This story contains content that may be offensive to some readers.]]> 326 Ashley Jade NMmomof4 4 4 Stars

Combined Duet Rating: 4 Stars

Opinion Breakdown
The Good: The messiness and darkness. The true H. How the twists and turns resulted in the end. The steamy scenes.

The Not-So-Good: The ending. I liked what happened in the ending! I just wanted much, much more! This was yet another one that gives us the epilogue right after the conflict resolution. I had some unanswered questions in the end and I really wanted to experience the HEA!

The Bad: The h. Still. I didn’t struggle with her as much as I did in the first book, but she still bugged me. See below h section.

Overall: This was an enjoyable duet. I appreciated the fact that it wasn’t stretched out too much as that seems to happen way too often these days so the authors can sell two books instead of one. Overall, I liked it and would recommend to anyone that likes the messy and dark romances!

Brief Summary of the Storyline: This is the conclusion of Eden, Cain, and Damien’s story. Again, it’s best if you go in blind. I will, however, still make note of the summary privately if anyone wants to pm me for the spoiler details.

Point Of View (POV): This alternated between Eden, Cain, and Damien’s POV.

Overall Pace of Story: Good. I never skimmed and I thought it flowed well.

Instalove: No

H1 and H2 ratings: Cain and Damien. I’m not gonna say. I think it should be experienced. I will say, though, that my original predictions about these two was pretty spot on ]]> 4.29 2019
author: Ashley Jade
name: NMmomof4
average rating: 4.29
book published: 2019
rating: 4
read at: 2022/09/07
date added: 2022/09/07
shelves: 4-star, dark, famous-wealthy-popular, duet-trilogy-or-series, love-triangle, mob-bad-guy-h, neighbors-live-with, not-safe, suspense, taboo, unlikely-couple
review:
4 Stars

Combined Duet Rating: 4 Stars

Opinion Breakdown
The Good: The messiness and darkness. The true H. How the twists and turns resulted in the end. The steamy scenes.

The Not-So-Good: The ending. I liked what happened in the ending! I just wanted much, much more! This was yet another one that gives us the epilogue right after the conflict resolution. I had some unanswered questions in the end and I really wanted to experience the HEA!

The Bad: The h. Still. I didn’t struggle with her as much as I did in the first book, but she still bugged me. See below h section.

Overall: This was an enjoyable duet. I appreciated the fact that it wasn’t stretched out too much as that seems to happen way too often these days so the authors can sell two books instead of one. Overall, I liked it and would recommend to anyone that likes the messy and dark romances!

Brief Summary of the Storyline: This is the conclusion of Eden, Cain, and Damien’s story. Again, it’s best if you go in blind. I will, however, still make note of the summary privately if anyone wants to pm me for the spoiler details.

Point Of View (POV): This alternated between Eden, Cain, and Damien’s POV.

Overall Pace of Story: Good. I never skimmed and I thought it flowed well.

Instalove: No

H1 and H2 ratings: Cain and Damien. I’m not gonna say. I think it should be experienced. I will say, though, that my original predictions about these two was pretty spot on
]]> 27211986
I've got a big... ego and an even bigger bank account. That's pretty much where my bio ends. Honestly, I don't need to say anything else. I've just sold 99% of women on going home with me. Do I sound like a jerk to you? That's because I am. And guess what? It works for me just fine. Or at least it did. Until I met her. Books talk about sparks flying. Screw that. With her, it was like emergency flares mixed with jet fuel. Or maybe just straight up napalm. Only one problem. She wouldn't tell me her name or her number when she disappeared from the hotel room after the hottest night of my life. Now I've had a taste of the perfect woman and I need it again. So what's a jerk to do? I took this problem to the street. A missed connection gone viral. And when I find her? I'm keeping her.

Dirty Billionaire is the first book in the Dirty Billionaire Trilogy. All three books are now available! Creighton and Holly's story continues in Dirty Pleasures and Dirty Together.]]> 205 Meghan March NMmomof4 0 4.11 2015
author: Meghan March
name: NMmomof4
average rating: 4.11
book published: 2015
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2022/09/06
shelves: duet-trilogy-or-series, freebie-or-loan, gonna-pass, bad-reviews
review:

]]> 18364943
They say in order to find yourself you have to go home, but what if home is what you’re escaping from. I went to Miami to discover myself; never in my wildest dreams, did I think home would become a three-letter word.
VIP.
I was the dream.
I was the illusion.
I was the fantasy.
Until him��
Everything went to hell in hand basket the moment we laid eyes on each other.
I wanted him.
He wanted me.

Sebastian

I have always been a man who made decisions based on other people’s feelings, wants, and desires.
I was selfless.
I never wanted to hurt anyone.
Especially her.
The moment I met her�� I wanted her.
I loved her.
For the woman she was.
For the woman she wanted to be.
But most of all��
For the woman she was, when she was with me.


This isn’t a love story, but a story about love.

Warning sex/drugs/language. Mature readers only.]]> 554 M. Robinson 1494374560 NMmomof4 3 3 Stars

Opinion Breakdown
The Good: I liked the overall premise, I liked the side characters the h had made a family out of, and I really liked the H’s son.

The Not-So-Good: The H. I liked him a lot of the time, but I also really felt like he was way too selfish. With Olivia and with Ysabelle! He needed to stop stringing people along and hurting them to spare Julia’s feelings!

The Bad: The pacing. While I appreciate that the author gave us some backstory and build up for the characters, I felt like it went on way too long. They don’t even meet until 50%! That was 211 pages in on my kindle app! I also didn’t like that the scene where the h [spoilers removed] was so brief and brushed over! That should’ve been a big deal! Especially with her history.

Overall: I’m honestly unsure how I feel about this. I always seem to like the escort-to-more storyline and I even enjoy the angsty goodness of the h being the other woman (I know, don’t hate me ]]> 3.81 2013
author: M. Robinson
name: NMmomof4
average rating: 3.81
book published: 2013
rating: 3
read at: 2022/09/05
date added: 2022/09/05
shelves: freebie-or-loan, duet-trilogy-or-series, 3-star, cheating, famous-wealthy-popular, kids-baby, love-triangle, not-safe, separation-without-other-partners, separation-with-other-partners, stripper-or-escort, unlikely-couple, workplace
review:
3 Stars

Opinion Breakdown
The Good: I liked the overall premise, I liked the side characters the h had made a family out of, and I really liked the H’s son.

The Not-So-Good: The H. I liked him a lot of the time, but I also really felt like he was way too selfish. With Olivia and with Ysabelle! He needed to stop stringing people along and hurting them to spare Julia’s feelings!

The Bad: The pacing. While I appreciate that the author gave us some backstory and build up for the characters, I felt like it went on way too long. They don’t even meet until 50%! That was 211 pages in on my kindle app! I also didn’t like that the scene where the h [spoilers removed] was so brief and brushed over! That should’ve been a big deal! Especially with her history.

Overall: I’m honestly unsure how I feel about this. I always seem to like the escort-to-more storyline and I even enjoy the angsty goodness of the h being the other woman (I know, don’t hate me
]]> 60111080 For fans of The Bridge Kingdom and A Deal with the Elf King, this arranged marriage romance about a human princess forced to wed a dark and desperate Shadow King is sure to entice!

A shunned princess. A reluctant king.
A marriage that could save both their kingdoms . . . but destroy their hearts.

Though she is the oldest daughter, Princess Faraine lives in the background, shunned from court and kept out of sight. Her chronic illness makes her a liability to the crown, and she has learned to give place to her beautiful, favored younger sister in all things.

When the handsome and enigmatic Shadow King comes seeking a bride, Faraine is not surprised that her sister is his choice.

Though not eager to take a human bride, King Vor is willing to do what is necessary for the sake of his people. When he meets the lively Princess Ilsevel, he quickly agrees to a marriage arrangement.

So why can’t he get the haunting eyes of her older sister out of his head?

When disaster strikes and the marriage alliance is compromised, Faraine suddenly finds herself forced to take her sister’s place . . . regardless of her new husband’s desires. Can she find a place at Vor’s side as his queen? Or is his heart forever closed to the woman who deceived him so cruelly?

Passionate and alluring, Bride of the Shadow King is an arranged marriage tale with dual point-of-view (his and hers). It’s perfect for fantasy fans looking for a touch of spice to go with the sweet in their next swoony, slow-burn romance.]]> 498 Sylvia Mercedes NMmomof4 4 3.5 Stars

Overall Opinion
The Good: I enjoyed the world building and how this author went about doing it in a way that didn’t bombard me with too much back story. It was presented as it came and allowed for a good flow and pacing. I liked both the the h and H. I liked how she was vulnerable but not necessarily weak. I liked how the H grew to care for the h even though the h’s sister was considered superior and thrown at him. I liked their connection to each other as a friendship that developed into more.

The Not-So-Good: While I am going to continue on to the next book and still feel into in the story, I had moments of thinking that the time was drawn out a little too much. Overall, this part of the story takes place in a pretty small amount of time (specifically when the h and H are together) but it ended with a cliffhanger and a lot of unfinished business. I didn’t hate it or anything because I remained engaged �� but I think that it could’ve been executed a little bit better in regards to timing.

The Bad: The only thing here is that I would’ve liked a little more steam. I liked the progression between these two, but I feel like there could’ve been some more stolen moments or something…I don’t need a ton, but more than what it was would be preferable.

Overall:I was looking for something to help with a book funk and this was a fun addition! I liked the author’s overall ideas and appreciated her storytelling. I will continue on to the next book and hopefully I’ll get some closure and steam ]]> 3.75 2022
author: Sylvia Mercedes
name: NMmomof4
average rating: 3.75
book published: 2022
rating: 4
read at: 2022/07/30
date added: 2022/07/30
shelves: duet-trilogy-or-series, kindle-unlimited, 3-5-star, contract-or-fake-to-real, disordered-mc, famous-wealthy-popular, fantasy-scifi, military-security-government, safe, suspense, unlikely-couple
review:
3.5 Stars

Overall Opinion
The Good: I enjoyed the world building and how this author went about doing it in a way that didn’t bombard me with too much back story. It was presented as it came and allowed for a good flow and pacing. I liked both the the h and H. I liked how she was vulnerable but not necessarily weak. I liked how the H grew to care for the h even though the h’s sister was considered superior and thrown at him. I liked their connection to each other as a friendship that developed into more.

The Not-So-Good: While I am going to continue on to the next book and still feel into in the story, I had moments of thinking that the time was drawn out a little too much. Overall, this part of the story takes place in a pretty small amount of time (specifically when the h and H are together) but it ended with a cliffhanger and a lot of unfinished business. I didn’t hate it or anything because I remained engaged �� but I think that it could’ve been executed a little bit better in regards to timing.

The Bad: The only thing here is that I would’ve liked a little more steam. I liked the progression between these two, but I feel like there could’ve been some more stolen moments or something…I don’t need a ton, but more than what it was would be preferable.

Overall:I was looking for something to help with a book funk and this was a fun addition! I liked the author’s overall ideas and appreciated her storytelling. I will continue on to the next book and hopefully I’ll get some closure and steam
]]> 57992291
And that's what Dominic Reed was to me. A devastating consequence.

It seemed harmless when we met. He needed a nanny, and I needed a job. Badly. I was the only thing keeping food on the table and lights on in our not-so-happily-ever-after house. Dad had split, and Mom was always blitzed out to forget he was gone, and I was all my little sister had left.

I thought working for Dominic Reed would be easy.

I thought wrong.

It was the exact opposite of easy. It was impossible, in fact, when he was my boss and I was his employee, and fate decided it didn't care about professionalism or boundaries.

It didn't care that I was ten years younger. It didn't care that I'd built the entire foundation of my adult life on the fact that love was poison and men were the devil.

And it certainly didn't care about the wedding band around Dominic's finger either.

No matter how off limits he was to me or how wild and rebellious I was to him, our chemistry was heroin, and it demanded our submission despite how hard we scrambled to stop it.

And I needed to stop it, because it wasn't just my heart in jeopardy if I fell in love with Dominic Reed.

Apparently, it was my life.]]> Alexandria Lee NMmomof4 3 2.5 Stars

Overall Opinion: This was unfortunate. I’m unlike a lot of readers and like these type of non-traditional romances. I like the messy characters and I like the messy relationships. I find that they often are the stories that make me feel, but sadly, that wasn’t the case here. I liked it at first. I was even tolerant of the excessive inner dialogue that eventually became repetitive and overdone. It just became too much (or too little ]]> 3.46
author: Alexandria Lee
name: NMmomof4
average rating: 3.46
book published:
rating: 3
read at: 2022/04/26
date added: 2022/04/27
shelves: duet-trilogy-or-series, kindle-unlimited, freebie-or-loan, 2-5-star, cheating, military-security-government, not-safe, taboo, unlikely-couple, workplace
review:
2.5 Stars

Overall Opinion: This was unfortunate. I’m unlike a lot of readers and like these type of non-traditional romances. I like the messy characters and I like the messy relationships. I find that they often are the stories that make me feel, but sadly, that wasn’t the case here. I liked it at first. I was even tolerant of the excessive inner dialogue that eventually became repetitive and overdone. It just became too much (or too little
]]> 56382516 Red is the color of blood, sacrifice, danger, and courage. It’s also associated with heat, passion, and sexuality. When two people meet unexpectedly with an inexplicable attraction that defies common understanding...it can be called RED SIN.


Julia and Van found one another in a shaken snow globe. Stranded in a blizzard, they embraced being two individuals with no last names. The plan was to walk away from each other with no regrets—until that plan changed.


Julia’s life was delivered a staggering blow the day she discovered her fiancé’s infidelity. The night she met a handsome stranger, one who showed her the possibility of a life filled with more than the fulfillment of expectations, she took a chance.


When it comes to business, Donovan Sherman is a wolf—a bloodthirsty carnivore who leaves wounded prey and victims in his wake. He learned from the best, his onetime nemesis and now-mentor, Lennox Demetri, who showed him that opportunities are only ripe for those willing to risk it all, a lesson Donovan took to heart.


With Julia McGrath, Donovan must decide if this beautiful woman who showed him the meaning of red sin will fall victim as his prey or if after experiencing the unbridled passion, there is more that he wants.


From New York Times bestselling author Aleatha Romig comes a brand-new age-gap, family saga, chance meeting, contemporary romantic-suspense novel in the world of high finance, where success is sweet and revenge is sweeter.


Have you been Aleatha’d?

*RED SIN is a full-length novel and book one of the Sin Series.]]> 320 Aleatha Romig NMmomof4 0 maybe, duet-trilogy-or-series 4.09 2021
author: Aleatha Romig
name: NMmomof4
average rating: 4.09
book published: 2021
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2022/04/22
shelves: maybe, duet-trilogy-or-series
review:

]]> 1309025
Boudica means Bringer of Victory (from the early Celtic word “boudeg��). She is the last defender of the Celtic culture in Britain; the only woman openly to lead her warriors into battle and to stand successfully against the might of Imperial Rome -- and triumph.

It is 33 AD and eleven-year-old Breaca (later named Boudica), the red-haired daughter of one of the leaders of the Eceni tribe, is on the cusp between girl and womanhood. She longs to be a Dreamer, a mystical leader who can foretell the future, but having killed the man who has attacked and killed her mother, she has proven herself a warrior. Dreaming the Eagle is also the story of the two men Boudica loves Caradoc, outstanding warrior and inspirational leader; and Bàn, her half-brother, who longs to be a warrior, though he is manifestly a Dreamer, possibly the finest in his tribe’s history. Bàn becomes the Druid whose eventual return to the Celts is Boudica’s salvation.

Dreaming the Eagle is full of brilliantly realised, luminous scenes as the narrative sweeps effortlessly from the epic -- where battle scenes are huge, bloody, and action-packed -- to the intimate. Manda Scott plunges us into the unforgettable world of tribal Britain in the years before the Roman a world of druids and dreamers and the magic of the gods where the natural world is as much a character as any of the people who live within it, a world of warriors who fight for honour as much as victory, a world of passion, courage and spectacular heroism pitched against overwhelming odds.

Dreaming the Eagle stunningly recreates the roots of a story so powerful its impact has lasted through the ages.]]> 465 Manda Scott 0385336705 NMmomof4 0 maybe, duet-trilogy-or-series 4.07 2003
author: Manda Scott
name: NMmomof4
average rating: 4.07
book published: 2003
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2022/04/22
shelves: maybe, duet-trilogy-or-series
review:

]]> 53401044 Nothing is fair in war.

Jonathan King is every bit his last name.
Powerful.
Untouchable.
Corrupted.
He’s also my dead sister’s husband and way older than me.
When I first met him as a clueless child, I thought he was a god.
Now, I have to confront that god to protect my business from his ruthless grip.
Little did I know that declaring a war on the king will cost me everything.
When Jonathan covets something, he doesn’t only win, he conquers.
Now, he has his sights on me.
He wants to consume not only my body, but also my heart and my soul.
I fight, but there’s no escaping the king in his kingdom...


Reign of a King is the first part of a duet and is not standalone.]]> 280 Rina Kent NMmomof4 0 4.07 2020
author: Rina Kent
name: NMmomof4
average rating: 4.07
book published: 2020
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2022/03/20
shelves: maybe, duet-trilogy-or-series, kindle-unlimited
review:

]]> 35383989 Then he hurt me. He wrecked me. He ruined me.
I spent three years putting myself together—fixing what he broke.
I never thought I'd see him again after that day.
I was counting on it.
Little did I know—life had other plans...and things were going to become a lot more complicated.


Asher —I finally know who I am. I own it, I embrace it...I'm no longer afraid.
I live my life with no regrets now, because I've learned my lesson—the hard way.
I thought I had it all figured out.
But then my past collides with my present...and things become complicated.
Turns out I don't really know myself after all.



Landon �� My life was all mapped out.
I knew exactly what direction I was heading in—I didn't have time for any roadblocks or obstacles.
Then I meet her.
And him.
Now, my heart is split right down the middle.
She controls the rhythm. He controls the melody.
Complicated doesn't even begin to cover it...and there's only one way this can end.


This story is for mature readers only. This duet contains language and explicit content featuring m/f, m/m, m/f/m.

Trigger
This story is strange and unconventional. It's everything you hate. That's the only warning I can offer you.]]> 239 Ashley Jade NMmomof4 3 3 Stars

Overall Opinion: This was just alright for me. I was excited and jumped right into a duet just because of the raving reviews and really just the premise alone ]]> 4.18 2017
author: Ashley Jade
name: NMmomof4
average rating: 4.18
book published: 2017
rating: 3
read at: 2022/01/03
date added: 2022/01/03
shelves: duet-trilogy-or-series, kindle-unlimited, 3-star, athlete, cheating, college, famous-wealthy-popular, friends-to-lovers, hs, love-triangle, not-safe, separation-with-other-partners, unlikely-couple, workplace
review:
3 Stars

Overall Opinion: This was just alright for me. I was excited and jumped right into a duet just because of the raving reviews and really just the premise alone
]]> 25812851
Severely autistic, Morgan cannot look people in the eye, tell left from right, and has uncontrolled tics. Yet he’s beaten every obstacle life has thrown his way. And when Grant Kessler moves into town Morgan isn’t a bit shy in letting the man know how much he wants him.

While the attraction is mutual, Grant pushes Morgan away. Like the rest of the world he can’t see past Morgan’s odd behaviors

Then Morgan shows Grant how light lets you see but it also leaves you blind. And once Grant opens his eyes, he loses his heart to the beautiful enigma of a man who changes the course of his life.]]> 341 Adrienne Wilder NMmomof4 0 4.43 2015
author: Adrienne Wilder
name: NMmomof4
average rating: 4.43
book published: 2015
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2021/12/27
shelves: maybe, kindle-unlimited, duet-trilogy-or-series
review:

]]> 58010582 Power. That’s what I think of when I spot him across the ER. Power and danger.

One of the wealthiest Russian oligarchs, Alex Volkov is as ruthless as he is magnetic. He always gets what he wants, and what he wants is me, in his bed.

He’s the kind of trouble every woman should run from. The bullet his bodyguard took for him proves that.

I should stay far away, but for one night, I give in to temptation. Before I know it, he’s pulling me deeper into his world of excess and violence, invading not only my life but my heart.

How much trust can I place in a man so dangerous? How much do I dare risk for his love?]]> 330 Anna Zaires 1643662589 NMmomof4 0 maybe, duet-trilogy-or-series 3.88 2021
author: Anna Zaires
name: NMmomof4
average rating: 3.88
book published: 2021
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2021/10/23
shelves: maybe, duet-trilogy-or-series
review:

]]> 58504358
Months later, Tiernan Morelli lays red roses on my mother’s grave. That same day, he tells me that he is my new guardian.

I should have known from the very start that he had more in common with the thorns than the rose. Now I know the truth: I’m a pawn in his dangerous game of revenge. I was too young and naive. Now it's too late to save myself from his clutches.

I belong to him.]]> 300 Giana Darling 1953553427 NMmomof4 0 3.72 2021
author: Giana Darling
name: NMmomof4
average rating: 3.72
book published: 2021
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2021/10/23
shelves: maybe, duet-trilogy-or-series, wait-until-cheaper
review:

]]> 58749624
But I’m no longer the naive young woman he once knew. And he’s no longer the man who took nearly everything from me.

Can this be our time? Or is it too late? Did I find myself only to lose him?]]> 320 Jewel E. Ann 1955520046 NMmomof4 4 4 Stars

Overall Opinion: This was an enjoyable conclusion to the duet. I would’ve really liked more time after they get everything sorted out and are an official couple before it jumped into the epilogue though. I liked the epilogue, but it simply wasn’t enough! I also would’ve really liked to get Fisher’s POV! This part of the duet made me think of The Opportunist series and I was anticipating a similar plot twist like that going down (another re-read to do ]]> 4.39 2021
author: Jewel E. Ann
name: NMmomof4
average rating: 4.39
book published: 2021
rating: 4
read at: 2021/10/18
date added: 2021/10/18
shelves: duet-trilogy-or-series, kindle-unlimited, 4-star, cheating, friends-to-lovers, disordered-mc, not-safe, second-chance, separation-with-other-partners, tears, unlikely-couple, unrequited
review:
4 Stars

Overall Opinion: This was an enjoyable conclusion to the duet. I would’ve really liked more time after they get everything sorted out and are an official couple before it jumped into the epilogue though. I liked the epilogue, but it simply wasn’t enough! I also would’ve really liked to get Fisher’s POV! This part of the duet made me think of The Opportunist series and I was anticipating a similar plot twist like that going down (another re-read to do
]]> 58749617
I'm eighteen and a young woman with endless possibilities on my way to reunite with my mom in Colorado after five years apart—she had a little weed incident in Nebraska.

At the airport, she springs the news on me ... she's leaving for a month of job training. And me? I'm left on my own in the basement she's renting from the fisherman, aka her landlord who lives upstairs.

He's ten years older than me. Never wears a shirt. And makes it hard to remember all the things I learned at Christian Academy.

Did I mention he’s also my new boss?]]> 326 Jewel E. Ann 195552002X NMmomof4 4 3.5 Stars

Overall Opinion: I hate myself so hard right now! I avoided really reading the reviews for this because I didn’t want to get too high of expectations with all the potential hype that this author often gets. Because of that caution, I had no idea this was a series! I typically wait until the series is complete before starting because I’m too impatient (and I read too many books that I might forget things) �� and I definitely would’ve done that here! This took a while to get started but then it was some unrequited love angsty goodness! It had a little bit too much focus on the sex for me and the H was a little cruel at times. The fact that we don’t get his POV I think made his behavior/words feel mean and kind of confusing with his hot and cold. I’m going to read the next book in a couple weeks, but still kicking myself for overlooking that not so little detail ]]> 4.04 2021
author: Jewel E. Ann
name: NMmomof4
average rating: 4.04
book published: 2021
rating: 4
read at: 2021/10/02
date added: 2021/10/02
shelves: 3-5-star, kindle-unlimited, duet-trilogy-or-series, neighbors-live-with, not-safe, safe-with-exception, taboo, unlikely-couple, workplace, unrequited
review:
3.5 Stars

Overall Opinion: I hate myself so hard right now! I avoided really reading the reviews for this because I didn’t want to get too high of expectations with all the potential hype that this author often gets. Because of that caution, I had no idea this was a series! I typically wait until the series is complete before starting because I’m too impatient (and I read too many books that I might forget things) �� and I definitely would’ve done that here! This took a while to get started but then it was some unrequited love angsty goodness! It had a little bit too much focus on the sex for me and the H was a little cruel at times. The fact that we don’t get his POV I think made his behavior/words feel mean and kind of confusing with his hot and cold. I’m going to read the next book in a couple weeks, but still kicking myself for overlooking that not so little detail
]]> 22021942
It's a simple concept, one I've said time and again, but something people don't seem to comprehend. You should choose every syllable carefully, because you never know when somebody will hold you to your word.

Somebody like me.

I'm not a good man. I'm not. I know. I have enough darkness inside of me to rid the world of every stitch of light. But there's one I could never harm, one light I couldn't bring myself to snuff out.

Karissa.

She thinks I'm a monster, and maybe I am. I taunt her with my touch, get a thrill out of torturing her soul. But I'm not the only one. The world is full of monsters, and I'm not the most dangerous one out there.

Not even close��

God help me, I love her.

I do.

And God help anyone who tries to take her from me.]]> 394 J.M. Darhower NMmomof4 0 DNF @ 52%

The h was so freaking annoying in this! And nothing was really happening except her being bratty. The constant mention of the H’s [spoilers removed] got rather old too. I basically skimmed from 52% to the end and I’m not all that heartbroken about what I missed tbh …needless to say, I’m not going to be reading the final book (that I just was reminded existed)! I see mixed reviews on this book from my GR friends, so at least I’m not in the slim minority again ]]> 4.11 2014
author: J.M. Darhower
name: NMmomof4
average rating: 4.11
book published: 2014
rating: 0
read at: 2021/09/01
date added: 2021/09/04
shelves: kindle-unlimited, dnf, college, famous-wealthy-popular, mob-bad-guy-h, neighbors-live-with, safe-with-exception, unlikely-couple, duet-trilogy-or-series, suspense
review:
DNF @ 52%

The h was so freaking annoying in this! And nothing was really happening except her being bratty. The constant mention of the H’s [spoilers removed] got rather old too. I basically skimmed from 52% to the end and I’m not all that heartbroken about what I missed tbh …needless to say, I’m not going to be reading the final book (that I just was reminded existed)! I see mixed reviews on this book from my GR friends, so at least I’m not in the slim minority again
]]> 21956060
I suspect it, the first time I see him, sense the air of danger that surrounds the man. He has a way of commanding attention, of taking control, of knowing what I'm thinking before I even do.

It's alarming and alluring. It's dark and deadly. It's everything I've ever wanted but the last thing I truly need. Obsession.

It doesn't take him long to draw me into his web, charming me into his bed and trapping me in his life, a life I know nothing about until it's too late. He has secrets, secrets I can't fathom, secrets that make it so I can't walk away, no matter how much I beg him to let me go. I see it sometimes in his eyes, a darkness that's both terrifying and thrilling. He's a monster, wrapped up in a pretty package, and what I find when I unmask him changes everything.

I want to hate him.

Sometimes, I do.

But it doesn't stop me from loving him, too.]]> 351 J.M. Darhower NMmomof4 4 5 Stars (Originally Read 5/6/2014)

3.5 Stars (Re-Read 9/4/2021)

Overall Opinion: This was an alright re-read. I’m glad I did re-read it so I could both write my review and also finish the second book that wasn’t out when I read this initially. I remembered the big twist this time around, so I think in a way that was always in the back of my mind and made this not as enjoyable the second time. I still liked the mystery behind Naz and Karissa was sweet, I just didn’t get their emotional connection past lust and sexy times. I’m going to drop my rating but also continue on to the final book, Torture to Her Soul, to finish this duet out. ]]> 4.05 2014
author: J.M. Darhower
name: NMmomof4
average rating: 4.05
book published: 2014
rating: 4
read at: 2021/09/04
date added: 2021/09/04
shelves: suspense, college, dark, 3-5-star, duet-trilogy-or-series, famous-wealthy-popular, kindle-unlimited, mob-bad-guy-h, re-read, safe, unlikely-couple
review:
5 Stars (Originally Read 5/6/2014)

3.5 Stars (Re-Read 9/4/2021)

Overall Opinion: This was an alright re-read. I’m glad I did re-read it so I could both write my review and also finish the second book that wasn’t out when I read this initially. I remembered the big twist this time around, so I think in a way that was always in the back of my mind and made this not as enjoyable the second time. I still liked the mystery behind Naz and Karissa was sweet, I just didn’t get their emotional connection past lust and sexy times. I’m going to drop my rating but also continue on to the final book, Torture to Her Soul, to finish this duet out.
]]> 53147411 A Russian boss. An Italian Princess.
The truth of their union would change everything...

Nothing will stop the Bratva mob boss from taking back what’s his and once he has her, he’ll do anything to keep her.

Viviana “Vine�� Carducci’s and Anton Avdonin’s marriage was decided over two decades ago. The deal between leading mafia families had more on the line than anyone knew, even if the Bratva and Cosa Nostra shouldn’t have mixed. When Vine’s family is murdered and she’s left with nothing more than her grief to survive the mob world alone, she believes the arrangement won’t see the light of day.

Anton can’t allow the one woman he was supposed to love get away. At the possibility of her life coming to a quick end, he steps in with guns blazing knowing exactly what it might cost him: everything. But it’s been nearly a decade since their last meeting, and he can’t help but wonder if the woman he took back is the same girl he fell for all those years before.

Under his protection and love, Vine is unable to forget their shared moments a lifetime ago, or the future she knows they’re owed. When an old flame of Anton’s shows up to rip the veil off the carefully constructed secrets he’d been hiding, past lies surface, and Vine might just learn that nothing about her life was as it seemed. But, that’s nothing compared to the bomb about to blow. Can she see beyond the pain and blood it to take what she always wanted? And just how far will the mob prince go to keep her safe?

In a world where violence, deceit, and greed reign, your life is not your own, and sometimes, love has to be arranged.]]> 326 Bethany-Kris 1989658180 NMmomof4 0 3.90 2014
author: Bethany-Kris
name: NMmomof4
average rating: 3.90
book published: 2014
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2021/09/01
shelves: maybe, freebie-or-loan, duet-trilogy-or-series
review:

]]> 55332451
I've never been one to back down from a challenge.
Rather than shy away, I grit my teeth and use it as an opportunity to prove myself.
Not just in football, but also in life.

Even when I was thrown through a loop in discovering I was bisexual, I embraced it. Owning it so no one can use it as ammunition against me.

But when Ciaráin Grady comes barreling into my life with his venomous tongue and amber eyes brimming with disdain, I realize every test of my character and strength could never have prepared me for the trial he holds.

One that toes the line of love and hate.

It's all-consuming and toxic.

Yet under the layers of revulsion he masks his face with, I see it. A glimmer of lust from deep within his secretive, broken soul.

And when we're thrown together under heinous circumstances, the distinction between enemy and lover begins to blur.

So...what is Ciaráin Grady to me?

I'm only certain that he is the greatest challenge of my life.]]> 446 C.E. Ricci NMmomof4 0 4.23 2020
author: C.E. Ricci
name: NMmomof4
average rating: 4.23
book published: 2020
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2021/06/09
shelves: maybe, duet-trilogy-or-series, kindle-unlimited
review:

]]> 28587653 Sela and Beck’s deliciously sinful tale of sex, lies, and vengeance reaches its explosive conclusion in the final chapter of Sawyer Bennett’s Sugar Bowl trilogy, which began with the novels Sugar Daddy and Sugar Rush.

For years Sela Halstead dreamed of revenge, but the quest for payback has been anything but sweet. Now, once again, she finds herself at the mercy of Jonathon Townsend, his hands crushing the very breath from her body. And even though she escapes with her life, Sela fears she may never recover. In desperate need of shelter and comfort, she runs to the one man she can trust. Beckett North has stood by Sela since the beginning. But can he handle the brutal truth?

Beck will do anything to protect what is his—and make no mistake, Sela belongs to him, heart and soul. The passion between them runs hot, even as their world begins to unravel. With the legacy of his ruthless business partner hanging in the balance, Beck stands to lose everything: his fortune, his family, his freedom. But each touch of Sela’s mouth on his skin, her nails down his back, makes it harder to let her go—and it might not even be his choice to make.]]> 216 Sawyer Bennett 1101968141 NMmomof4 3 3 Stars

Overall Trilogy Rating: Average of 3 stars

Overall Opinion: This was better than the second book, Sugar Rush, but not as good as the first, Sugar Daddy. Bummer. I don’t like trilogies for this exact reason! I was weirdly in the mood to try this one out though in hopes that it’s change my mind. Sadly, not so much. I felt like it was stretched out too thin in a trilogy that really could’ve been a standalone or a duet even with much better quality content and flow. I still skimmed with this one, but again, not as much as the second book. I’m going with middle of the road 3 star rating here just because it was a pretty darn good epilogue. Making the overall trilogy rating an average 3 star rating as well.

Brief Summary of the Storyline: This is the conclusion of Sela and Beck’s story. It starts off where the last book ended in a cliffy. It finds the mcs in a tough position that tests their love. There’s a good bit of suspenseful scenes, some sexy times... and they get a HEA

Point Of View (POV): This alternated between Sela and Beck’s POV.

Overall Pace of Story: Alright. I did still skim some because I felt like there was a lot of filler to get a final book out.

Instalove: No, but feelings were already developed when this book begins

H (Hero) rating: 3.5 stars. Beck. I liked him more than Sela in this one too.

h (heroine) rating: 3 stars. Sela. She still acted stupid but I did like her at times too.

Sadness level: Low, no tissues needed

Push/Pull: Yes [spoilers removed]

Heat level: Good. They have some good tension, chemistry, and scenes -- but not so much it takes away from the story.

Descriptive sex: Yes

OW (Other Woman)/OM (Other Man) drama: No

Sex scene with OW or OM: No

Cheating: No

Separation: No

Possible Triggers: Yes [spoilers removed]

Closure: This ends with a good epilogue and a HEA ending [spoilers removed]

Safety: This one should be Safe for most safety gang readers
[spoilers removed]]]> 3.95 2016
author: Sawyer Bennett
name: NMmomof4
average rating: 3.95
book published: 2016
rating: 3
read at: 2021/06/07
date added: 2021/06/06
shelves: 3-star, duet-trilogy-or-series, freebie-or-loan, safe, suspense, famous-wealthy-popular
review:
3 Stars

Overall Trilogy Rating: Average of 3 stars

Overall Opinion: This was better than the second book, Sugar Rush, but not as good as the first, Sugar Daddy. Bummer. I don’t like trilogies for this exact reason! I was weirdly in the mood to try this one out though in hopes that it’s change my mind. Sadly, not so much. I felt like it was stretched out too thin in a trilogy that really could’ve been a standalone or a duet even with much better quality content and flow. I still skimmed with this one, but again, not as much as the second book. I’m going with middle of the road 3 star rating here just because it was a pretty darn good epilogue. Making the overall trilogy rating an average 3 star rating as well.

Brief Summary of the Storyline: This is the conclusion of Sela and Beck’s story. It starts off where the last book ended in a cliffy. It finds the mcs in a tough position that tests their love. There’s a good bit of suspenseful scenes, some sexy times... and they get a HEA

Point Of View (POV): This alternated between Sela and Beck’s POV.

Overall Pace of Story: Alright. I did still skim some because I felt like there was a lot of filler to get a final book out.

Instalove: No, but feelings were already developed when this book begins

H (Hero) rating: 3.5 stars. Beck. I liked him more than Sela in this one too.

h (heroine) rating: 3 stars. Sela. She still acted stupid but I did like her at times too.

Sadness level: Low, no tissues needed

Push/Pull: Yes [spoilers removed]

Heat level: Good. They have some good tension, chemistry, and scenes -- but not so much it takes away from the story.

Descriptive sex: Yes

OW (Other Woman)/OM (Other Man) drama: No

Sex scene with OW or OM: No

Cheating: No

Separation: No

Possible Triggers: Yes [spoilers removed]

Closure: This ends with a good epilogue and a HEA ending [spoilers removed]

Safety: This one should be Safe for most safety gang readers
[spoilers removed]
]]> 27774345 In the steamy and suspenseful sequel to Sugar Daddy, a heartbreaking rift threatens to unravel a dangerous alliance... and a fragile new love.

After posing as an escort for the Sugar Bowl online dating service, Sela Halstead is looking for one thing: payback. She's closing in on the site's heartless founder, Jonathon Townsend, and she needs Beckett North, Townsend's business partner and her lover, by her side. She'd thought that their intimate nights together had forged an unbreakable bond, but after a shocking betrayal, Sela begins to doubt the brilliant bad boy. When push comes to shove, can she trust Beck to do the right thing?

Now that he understands the truth, Beck will stop at nothing to secure the reckoning Sela deserves. But between his desire for her and his disgust for JT, Beck doesn't exactly have a lot of control over his emotional state. Left with no other choice, he must summon all his discipline to maintain JT's trust and pretend that they're still friends. But how far will Beck go to prove his loyalty to Sela? He nearly lost her once. To keep her, Beck might have to kill for her.

Note: Sugar Rush ends on a cliffhanger. Sela and Beck's story concludes in Sugar Free!]]> 219 Sawyer Bennett 1101968133 NMmomof4 3 2.5 Stars

Overall Opinion: Ugh. This had the dreaded stretch of a second book in a trilogy. It felt like a lot of nothing happened until the end to set up the third book. I’m going to continue on because I am curious as to how this will end up, but I’m pretty bummed as of right now ]]> 3.98 2016
author: Sawyer Bennett
name: NMmomof4
average rating: 3.98
book published: 2016
rating: 3
read at: 2021/06/06
date added: 2021/06/06
shelves: 2-5-star, duet-trilogy-or-series, famous-wealthy-popular, fbuddy-to-more, freebie-or-loan, neighbors-live-with, safe, safe-with-exception, separation-without-other-partners, suspense
review:
2.5 Stars

Overall Opinion: Ugh. This had the dreaded stretch of a second book in a trilogy. It felt like a lot of nothing happened until the end to set up the third book. I’m going to continue on because I am curious as to how this will end up, but I’m pretty bummed as of right now
]]> 25573737 Seduction has never been so sweet! The New York Times bestselling author of the Cold Fury series��Alex, Garrett, Zack, and Ryker—returns with the first novel in a hot new trilogy.

Sela Halstead lost her innocence in a way that no sixteen-year-old should ever have to endure. She’s spent years trying to forget that night even while wondering about the identities of the monsters who brutalized her—until a telltale tattoo flashes across Sela’s TV screen. The incriminating ink belongs to Jonathon Townsend, the millionaire founder of The Sugar Bowl, a website that matches rich older men with impressionable young women. Obsessed with revenge, Sela infiltrates Townsend’s world, only to come face-to-face with a tantalizing complication: Beckett North, his charismatic business partner.

The tech mastermind behind The Sugar Bowl, Beck always gets what he wants, in business and in bed. And yet, for a man who’s done every dirty thing imaginable, there’s something about the naïve, fresh-faced Sela that sparks his hottest fantasies. Because with her, it’s not just about sex. Beck opens up to her in ways he never has with other girls. So why does he get the feeling that she’s hiding something? In a world of pleasure and power, the shocking truth could turn them against each other—or bind them forever.

Note: Sugar Daddy ends on a cliffhanger. Sela and Beck’s story continues in Sugar Rush and Sugar Free!]]> 270 Sawyer Bennett 1101968125 NMmomof4 4 4 Stars

Overall Opinion: This was good first installment of the trilogy. Yes! A trilogy! I was interested enough in this storyline to commit to three books...so hopefully I don’t get let down with the second and third book ]]> 4.05 2016
author: Sawyer Bennett
name: NMmomof4
average rating: 4.05
book published: 2016
rating: 4
read at: 2021/06/06
date added: 2021/06/06
shelves: duet-trilogy-or-series, freebie-or-loan, 4-star, contract-or-fake-to-real, famous-wealthy-popular, fbuddy-to-more, neighbors-live-with, safe-with-exception
review:
4 Stars

Overall Opinion: This was good first installment of the trilogy. Yes! A trilogy! I was interested enough in this storyline to commit to three books...so hopefully I don’t get let down with the second and third book
]]> 54499148
I’ve spent the past three years in college terrorizing the dean, also known as my father.
I’m everything he hates.

Troublemaker.
Slacker.
Gay.

But I’m only getting started.
I’m about to make Dad really proud with my newest life choices��

I fall for my best friend, Mia, who’s a freaking chick.
I’m dying to make out with my enemy, dude bro Brayden.
And best of all, I want to bone my new roomie, Drew, who happens to also be the school’s new hockey coach.

Senior year’s great.
I’m still the world’s worst human.
I’ve made all the wrong decisions, and when Dad gets wind of my newest mess, he might actually disown me this time.

But I can’t stop.
I don’t want to stop.

In typical Ashton Carter fashion, I wreck my life in the worst possible way.
It isn’t until it’s all torn apart, I realize I have a problem.
Me.

Authors�� note: Torn Apart is a full-length mature, new adult why choose romance between friends to lovers, enemies to lovers, with a bit of taboo thrown in. This story contains MF/MFMM/MM scenes. It’s the first book in the Torn and Bound duet and ends with a cliffhanger.
]]> 274 K. Webster NMmomof4 0 4.12 2020
author: K. Webster
name: NMmomof4
average rating: 4.12
book published: 2020
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2021/06/06
shelves: maybe, duet-trilogy-or-series, kindle-unlimited
review:

]]> 53131409
They think they'll elbow past me, that I'm here for their amusement, for them to walk all over, they'll find out soon enough that I'm not.

I may look like one of them, with my designer bags and clothes straight from the Parisian runways, but I'm not. I'm here for answers, to take revenge for blood spilled on their centuries-old Persian rugs.

I transferred here in search for answers about what happened to my older brother, who hightailed out of here, and my friend who seemingly disappeared into thin air. I certainly wasn't here for the attention of the star hockey player, regardless of how much he willed my eyes his way. I wasn't here for his scrutiny or his judgment or to read into his mysterious aura. I was here for the society, because only they held the answers I needed. That was, until I found out that in order to get those answers, I needed to to go through him. He's saying if I want in, I have to play by their rules, follow their lead.

It's a game I'm willing to play.

I may be the second person I know of to be invited into their society, but I'll be the first to make it out intact.]]> 370 Claire Contreras 0998345571 NMmomof4 0 3.83 2019
author: Claire Contreras
name: NMmomof4
average rating: 3.83
book published: 2019
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2021/06/06
shelves: maybe, kindle-unlimited, duet-trilogy-or-series
review:

]]> 44552089
As Poe begins uncovering the house’s secrets, both new and old, she’s also pulled into the seductive, elegant world of Auden and his friends—and drawn to Auden’s worst enemy, the beautiful and brooding St. Sebastian. And as Thornchapel slowly tightens its coil of truths and lies around them, Poe, Auden and St. Sebastian start unravelling into filthy, holy pleasure and pain. Together, they awaken a fate that will either anoint them or leave them in ashes��
***
From the author of the USA Today bestselling New Camelot series comes an original fairy tale full of ancient mysteries, lantern-lit rituals, jealousy, money, murder, sacred torment, and obsessions that last for lifetimes...

***A Lesson in Thorns is the first of four books in the Thornchapel series.***
]]> 358 Sierra Simone NMmomof4 0 3.83 2019
author: Sierra Simone
name: NMmomof4
average rating: 3.83
book published: 2019
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2021/06/06
shelves: maybe, duet-trilogy-or-series, wait-until-cheaper
review:

]]> 32469793 From New York Times and USA Today bestselling author Katy Evans comes a sizzling new contemporary romance. He's won the hearts of millions. But is he willing to lose his? I met the president’s son when we were both young. Matthew Hamilton was handsome, polished, and intelligent. I’d never met a guy like him. He promised me that he’d never run for president. I promised that if he did, I’d be by his side. Three terms later, an invitation to join Matthew Hamilton’s campaign is the most exhilarating opportunity I’ve ever experienced. I'm determined to make a difference; he is determined to win. Focused on his goal, Matt is steadfast, ruthless, and disarming. All eyes are on him and his popularity is surging. But soon, the next possible president of the United States is possessing me in more ways than one—and despite the risks, I'm helpless to resist. We're stealing touches, stealing moments, and stealing away at night. But our chemical connection is quickly becoming dangerously combustive, putting not only my heart, but Matt's chance at the presidency on the line. Winning will take everything. Walking away will be the hardest thing of all.]]> 336 Katy Evans NMmomof4 0 4.29 2016
author: Katy Evans
name: NMmomof4
average rating: 4.29
book published: 2016
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2021/06/06
shelves: maybe, duet-trilogy-or-series, wait-until-cheaper
review:

]]> 25917260
Three months have passed since Jason “Grizz�� Talbot was put to death by lethal injection for crimes he committed. His former wife, Ginny, whom he had abducted from a convenience store when she was a teenager and became the love obsession of his life, has spent more than the last decade trying to carve out a life of normalcy in the bustling suburbs of Fort Lauderdale—including a thriving and happy marriage to Tommy "Grunt" Dillon, a former member of Grizz’s gang.

Tired of the secrets and the lies, Ginny and Tommy thought the final piece of their past could be left behind forever with Grizz’s execution. However, the past comes crashing around Ginny and Tommy when a newly discovered secret threatens to destroy their marriage. When tragedy strikes, Ginny is forced to reach into her heart and decide, once and for all, what she really wants.

​In this third book in the Nine Minutes trilogy, A Gift of Time takes readers from the busy tropical metropolis of South Florida into the serenity of the North Carolina Blue Ridge mountains as Ginny chases down the answers she needs.

Will she have the strength to confront the secrets of her past…and her heart?]]> 446 Beth Flynn 1535168676 NMmomof4 0 4.45 2016
author: Beth Flynn
name: NMmomof4
average rating: 4.45
book published: 2016
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2021/06/05
shelves: maybe, duet-trilogy-or-series, kindle-unlimited
review:

]]> 27064520
The living seek forgiveness. The dead seek revenge.

A first love.
A last breath.
A haunting past.

Armed with a sinful past and an equally sinful body, Jackson Knight absolves his vow of celibacy to pursue Sergeant Monaghan’s unsuspecting—older—housekeeper.

Ryn Middleton, on the cusp of turning forty with a snarky daughter, a killer dog, and an abusive ex-husband, finds Jackson’s advances humorous and unbelievable. After intense negotiations including Vera Wang, Ed Sheeran, and sex four times a day, Ryn accepts Jackson’s marriage proposal on their first date.

What could possibly go wrong?

While struggling to lay claim to the woman of the dreams he never had, Jackson is forced to deal with a grief-stricken Jillian trying to hold on to her past without letting go of her future—the doctor who took her heart and the Sergeant who gave her a new one.

Beyond the hope for light, lies the middle of darkness, the illusion of truth, and a haunting past.

*WARNING - Contains explicit language and sexual content and subject matter pertaining to physical/sexual abuse.]]> 322 Jewel E. Ann NMmomof4 0 4.63 2015
author: Jewel E. Ann
name: NMmomof4
average rating: 4.63
book published: 2015
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2021/06/05
shelves: maybe, kindle-unlimited, duet-trilogy-or-series
review:

]]> 18949109 Forever is a heartbeat away . . .

Kerris Moreton knows how to make things work. Bounced from foster home to foster home as a kid, she adapted; when opportunity arose, she thrived. Now, about to open her own business and accept a marriage proposal, Kerris is ready to build the life she's always wanted. The only thing missing? A passionate connection with her would-be fiancé, Cam. Kerris wants to believe that sparks are overrated-until Walsh Bennett lights her up like the Fourth of July.

. . . but what about love?

As one of the East Coast's most eligible bachelors, Walsh enjoys financial independence, fulfilling work with his family's nonprofit, and plenty of female attention. But lately he's been distracted by the one woman he can't have. Lovely to look at and even sweeter to know, Kerris is the soul mate Walsh never thought he would find. The problem is, his best friend found her first . . .

Approx: 50K words.]]> 320 Kennedy Ryan 1455556823 NMmomof4 0 3.71 2014
author: Kennedy Ryan
name: NMmomof4
average rating: 3.71
book published: 2014
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2021/06/05
shelves: duet-trilogy-or-series, gonna-pass, meh-reviews-removed-sample
review:

]]> 29843226
Then one of Knox's demons goes rogue, and in his madness decides Knox Thorne must die. Harper's worried. Knox isn't - at least until he discovers his mate's willingness to get between him and danger.

Now, Knox has a new priority: Keep Harper safe ...no matter what it takes. But Harper begins to suspect there's more danger than one rogue demon. It seems the combined strength of Harper and Knox has upset the balance of power in the demon world and there are those who are determined to right that wrong. Because when you move up the food chain, sometimes the other predators just want to take a bigger bite.]]> 348 Suzanne Wright NMmomof4 0 4.22 2016
author: Suzanne Wright
name: NMmomof4
average rating: 4.22
book published: 2016
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2021/06/05
shelves: maybe, duet-trilogy-or-series, wait-until-cheaper
review:

]]> 31144162
I will live for my family.
I will kill for my family.
I will marry for my family.

I, Ivy O'Davoren, the only daughter of Shay O'Davoren, solemnly swear to ruthlessly and mercilessly exact revenge on the Callahans and all those who betrayed my father and family.

I will live for revenge.
I will kill for revenge.
I will marry for revenge.

***

You devoured the Ruthless People series. Now it’s time to revel in the reign of the Callahan children��

Stand-alone sequel series to Ruthless People series. You do not have to read Ruthless People series beforehand .]]> 413 J.J. McAvoy NMmomof4 0 4.17 2017
author: J.J. McAvoy
name: NMmomof4
average rating: 4.17
book published: 2017
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2021/06/05
shelves: maybe, wait-until-cheaper, duet-trilogy-or-series
review:

]]> 44024465
Was it when we were little kids, practically brought up together, after Reeve’s mom died during childbirth and his dad subsequently fell apart? Or when I doodled his name in my school journal at age ten? Maybe it was when we became boyfriend and girlfriend at fourteen or when we shed our virginity at sixteen, pledging our forever?

I was there as his star ascended—like I’d always known it would—and there wasn’t a prouder person on the planet. As the only child of Hollywood’s golden couple, I’ve lived my life in the spotlight enough to know it wasn’t what I wanted for my future. But I sacrificed my own desires, because Reeve’s happiness meant everything to me.

Until he crushed my heart into itty-bitty pieces, forcing me to fly halfway around the world just to escape the gut-wrenching pain.

The opportunity to study at Trinity College Dublin came at the perfect moment, and I jumped at the chance without hesitation. If I’d known fate was meddling in my life, perhaps I would have chosen differently, but my future was cemented the instant I laid eyes on him.

Dillon O’Donoghue was Reeve’s polar opposite in every way, and perhaps, that’s why I felt drawn to him. He was the dark to my light. The thorn in my side, irritating me with his cold disdain, wild recklessness, and a burning rage hidden deep inside him that spoke to a silent part within me. Yet Dillon showed me what it was like to truly live, opening my eyes to endless possibilities.

What happened next was inevitable, and I only have myself to blame. He warned me, and I knew my reprieve was temporary, because there is only so far I can run.

Especially when fate hasn’t finished messing with me yet.

This is a full-length 168K-word second-chance romance novel that is book one of two. It cannot be read as a stand-alone, and it ends on a cliff-hanger. Recommended to readers aged eighteen and older.]]> 580 Siobhan Davis NMmomof4 0 4.15 2021
author: Siobhan Davis
name: NMmomof4
average rating: 4.15
book published: 2021
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2021/05/29
shelves: maybe, duet-trilogy-or-series, kindle-unlimited
review:

]]> 13584236 New York Times #1 bestselling trilogy has been hailed by Entertainment Weekly as being “in a class by itself.�� Beginning with the GoodReads Choice Award Romance Finalist Fifty Shades of Grey, the Fifty Shades Trilogy will obsess you, possess you, and stay with you forever.
��
This bundle includes the following
��
FIFTY SHADES OF When college student Anastasia Steele goes to interview young entrepreneur Christian Grey, she encounters a man who is beautiful, brilliant, and intimidating.�� The unworldly Ana realizes she wants this man, and Grey admits he wants her, too—but on his own terms. When the couple embarks on a daring, passionately physical affair, Ana discovers Christian’s secrets and explores her own desires.
��
FIFTY SHADES Daunted by Christian’s dark secrets and singular tastes, Ana has broken off their relationship to start a new career.��But desire for Christian still dominates her every waking thought.��They rekindle their searing sensual affair, and while Christian wrestles with his inner demons, Ana is forced to make the most important decision of her life.
��
FIFTY SHADES Now, Ana and Christian have it all—love, passion, intimacy, wealth, and a world of possibilities for their future. But Ana knows that loving her Fifty Shades will not be easy, and that being together will pose challenges that neither of them would anticipate. Just when it seems that their strength together will eclipse any obstacle, misfortune, malice, and fate conspire to turn Ana’s deepest fears into reality.

This book is intended for mature audiences.]]> 1859 E.L. James 0345803574 NMmomof4 3 2.667 Average Star Rating for Trilogy

1st book, Fifty Shades of Grey, 3 Stars: /review/show...

2nd book, Fifty Shades Darker, 2 Stars:
/review/show...

3rd book, Fifty Shades Freed, 3 Stars: /review/show...
]]> 4.11 2005
author: E.L. James
name: NMmomof4
average rating: 4.11
book published: 2005
rating: 3
read at: 2021/05/03
date added: 2021/05/03
shelves: 2-75-stars, 2-5-star, bdsm, contract-or-fake-to-real, disordered-mc, famous-wealthy-popular, duet-trilogy-or-series, separation-without-other-partners, unlikely-couple
review:
2.667 Average Star Rating for Trilogy

1st book, Fifty Shades of Grey, 3 Stars: /review/show...

2nd book, Fifty Shades Darker, 2 Stars:
/review/show...

3rd book, Fifty Shades Freed, 3 Stars: /review/show...

]]> 13536860
Now, Ana and Christian have it all—love, passion, intimacy, wealth, and a world of possibilities for their future.��But Ana knows that loving her Fifty Shades will not be easy, and that being together will pose challenges that neither of them would anticipate.��Ana must somehow learn to share Christian’s opulent lifestyle without sacrificing her own identity. And Christian must overcome his compulsion to control as he wrestles with the demons of a tormented past.

Just when it seems that their strength together will eclipse any obstacle, misfortune, malice, and fate conspire to make Ana’s deepest fears turn to reality.

This book is intended for mature audiences.]]> 579 E.L. James 0345803507 NMmomof4 3 5 Stars (Originally Read 10/25/2013)

3 Stars (Re-Read 5/3/2021)

Overall Opinion: I honestly skimmed most of this. I was over the inner goddess and just Ana in general. Maybe instead of re-reading I should’ve revisited these two characters by reading the trilogy in Christian’s POV �� but I really thought I needed to get some reviews down for this one. I loved it when I first got into reading, but this is a great example of how my likes have changed so much over time. There were two things that made this a higher rating than the 2nd book, and that was the action and (mostly) the cute epilogue (and bonus material). I gotta respect it for initiating my love for reading romances, but it just isn’t something I necessarily love today.

Brief Summary of the Storyline: This is Ana and Christian’s story. It continues where the previous book left off and I’m keeping it vague to try not to ruin the other books. Christian and Ana’s lives have drastically changed and they are trying to navigate their new worlds. There are some people from their pasts that cause some drama and have some sexy times...and it ends on a sweet note.

Point Of View (POV): This was told in Ana’s POV.

Overall Pace of Story: I skimmed most of the book, so I’m probably not a good judge of pacing.

Instalove:No, but they are already in love when this begins

H (Hero) rating: 3.5 stars. Christian. I liked him but didn’t get deep into his character because we don’t get his POV (except bonus material after the epilogue)

h (heroine) rating: 2 stars. Ana. Still not a fan. She was still pushy and her inner personalities were ridiculous.

Sadness level: Low, no tissues needed

Push/Pull: Yes [spoilers removed]

Heat level: Good. They have some good tension, chemistry, and scenes -- but not so much it takes away from the story. I also skimmed these scenes, so take my rating with a grain of salt.

Descriptive sex: Yes

OW (Other Woman)/OM (Other Man) drama: Yes [spoilers removed]

Sex scene with OW or OM: No

Cheating: No

Separation: No

Possible Triggers: Yes [spoilers removed]

Closure: This ends with a pretty cute epilogue and what I would call a HEA ending [spoilers removed]

Safety: This one should be Safe for most safety gang readers
[spoilers removed]]]> 3.83 2012
author: E.L. James
name: NMmomof4
average rating: 3.83
book published: 2012
rating: 3
read at: 2021/05/03
date added: 2021/05/03
shelves: 3-star, bdsm, disordered-mc, famous-wealthy-popular, duet-trilogy-or-series, neighbors-live-with, suspense, unrequited
review:
5 Stars (Originally Read 10/25/2013)

3 Stars (Re-Read 5/3/2021)

Overall Opinion: I honestly skimmed most of this. I was over the inner goddess and just Ana in general. Maybe instead of re-reading I should’ve revisited these two characters by reading the trilogy in Christian’s POV �� but I really thought I needed to get some reviews down for this one. I loved it when I first got into reading, but this is a great example of how my likes have changed so much over time. There were two things that made this a higher rating than the 2nd book, and that was the action and (mostly) the cute epilogue (and bonus material). I gotta respect it for initiating my love for reading romances, but it just isn’t something I necessarily love today.

Brief Summary of the Storyline: This is Ana and Christian’s story. It continues where the previous book left off and I’m keeping it vague to try not to ruin the other books. Christian and Ana’s lives have drastically changed and they are trying to navigate their new worlds. There are some people from their pasts that cause some drama and have some sexy times...and it ends on a sweet note.

Point Of View (POV): This was told in Ana’s POV.

Overall Pace of Story: I skimmed most of the book, so I’m probably not a good judge of pacing.

Instalove:No, but they are already in love when this begins

H (Hero) rating: 3.5 stars. Christian. I liked him but didn’t get deep into his character because we don’t get his POV (except bonus material after the epilogue)

h (heroine) rating: 2 stars. Ana. Still not a fan. She was still pushy and her inner personalities were ridiculous.

Sadness level: Low, no tissues needed

Push/Pull: Yes [spoilers removed]

Heat level: Good. They have some good tension, chemistry, and scenes -- but not so much it takes away from the story. I also skimmed these scenes, so take my rating with a grain of salt.

Descriptive sex: Yes

OW (Other Woman)/OM (Other Man) drama: Yes [spoilers removed]

Sex scene with OW or OM: No

Cheating: No

Separation: No

Possible Triggers: Yes [spoilers removed]

Closure: This ends with a pretty cute epilogue and what I would call a HEA ending [spoilers removed]

Safety: This one should be Safe for most safety gang readers
[spoilers removed]
]]> 50392426 They strive to be the best.
But only a select few can be ...
The Elite

* * *

MATTEO MORGAN
CALL SIGN: SOLO

Reckless, arrogant, and bold, Solo is as known in the U.S. Navy for his bad-boy reputation as he is for his skills as a fighter pilot. It’s a surprise to his peers, then, when he’s chosen to train and compete at the most prestigious naval aviation academy in the world.

MISSION RULES:
1. Kick everyone’s ass.
2. Do whatever it takes to win.
3. Do your best to distract the competition.
4. Especially when that competition is a gorgeous blue-eyed perfectionist who makes your blood run hot.

* * *

GRANT HUGHES
CALL SIGN: PANTHER

Disciplined, smart, and confident, Panther can’t afford not to play by the rules. As the son of a top Navy commander, all eyes are on him, and being anything less than number one is unacceptable.

MISSION RULES:
1. Keep it safe in the air.
2. Prove you’re more than Commander Hughes’s son.
3. No distractions. Stay focused.
4. Don’t fall for your competition—especially not the rebellious heartbreaker with lips made for sinning.

In the heat of the hot California sun, tempers flare and desires ignite as Solo and Panther try to resist their attraction while fighting to be number one.
With passion this intense, the question remains:
Who’s gonna come out on top?
]]> 195 Brooke Blaine NMmomof4 3 3 Stars

Overall Opinion: I hate when I don’t realize a book is not a standalone! Totally my own fault here as I just jumped in without really looking into the reviews. I’m liking the competitive nature between these two and their banter. I’m anxious to see some affectionate feelings develop because I feel as though all I got in this one is the competitiveness and lust...so, on to the next!

Brief Summary of the Storyline: This is Grant and Mateo’s story. They meet one night at a bar and hit it off but Grant was waiting for an already arranged date. They are shocked to find that they are both part of ‘the elite�� fighter pilot training/competition for the next 10 weeks. Mateo is persistent, but Grant has his father’s legacy to live up to and still lives in the closet. There is some sexy back and forth, some fun suspenseful scenes, and some hot sexy times...and this ends on a cliffy.

Point Of View (POV): This alternated between Grant and Mateo’s POV.

Overall Pace of Story: Good. I never skimmed and I thought it flowed well.

Instalove: No. Instalust? Yes

H1 (Hero #1) rating: 4 stars. Grant/Panther. I liked him. I felt bad for the pressure he’s under with his father but I appreciated how he strived to be the best.

H2 (Hero #2) rating: 4 stars. Mateo/Solo. I liked him too. He is super confident and goes after what he wants. He seems to be a little pushy at times, but I thought it fit his character.

Sadness level: Low, no tissues needed

Push/Pull: Yes [spoilers removed]

Heat level: Hot. They have some hot tension, chemistry, and scenes -- but not so much it takes away from the story.

Descriptive sex: Yes

OW (Other Woman)/OM (Other Man) drama: No

Sex scene with OW or OM: No [spoilers removed]

Cheating: No

Separation: No. I don’t consider them ‘together�� for them to have a separation

Possible Triggers: Not really

Closure: This ends on a big cliffhanger but the next book, Need for Speed, is out to read.

Safety: This one should be Safe for most safety gang readers
[spoilers removed]]]> 4.13 2020
author: Brooke Blaine
name: NMmomof4
average rating: 4.13
book published: 2020
rating: 3
read at: 2021/02/15
date added: 2021/02/15
shelves: kindle-unlimited, 3-star, mm, military-security-government, safe, suspense, workplace, neighbors-live-with, duet-trilogy-or-series
review:
3 Stars

Overall Opinion: I hate when I don’t realize a book is not a standalone! Totally my own fault here as I just jumped in without really looking into the reviews. I’m liking the competitive nature between these two and their banter. I’m anxious to see some affectionate feelings develop because I feel as though all I got in this one is the competitiveness and lust...so, on to the next!

Brief Summary of the Storyline: This is Grant and Mateo’s story. They meet one night at a bar and hit it off but Grant was waiting for an already arranged date. They are shocked to find that they are both part of ‘the elite�� fighter pilot training/competition for the next 10 weeks. Mateo is persistent, but Grant has his father’s legacy to live up to and still lives in the closet. There is some sexy back and forth, some fun suspenseful scenes, and some hot sexy times...and this ends on a cliffy.

Point Of View (POV): This alternated between Grant and Mateo’s POV.

Overall Pace of Story: Good. I never skimmed and I thought it flowed well.

Instalove: No. Instalust? Yes

H1 (Hero #1) rating: 4 stars. Grant/Panther. I liked him. I felt bad for the pressure he’s under with his father but I appreciated how he strived to be the best.

H2 (Hero #2) rating: 4 stars. Mateo/Solo. I liked him too. He is super confident and goes after what he wants. He seems to be a little pushy at times, but I thought it fit his character.

Sadness level: Low, no tissues needed

Push/Pull: Yes [spoilers removed]

Heat level: Hot. They have some hot tension, chemistry, and scenes -- but not so much it takes away from the story.

Descriptive sex: Yes

OW (Other Woman)/OM (Other Man) drama: No

Sex scene with OW or OM: No [spoilers removed]

Cheating: No

Separation: No. I don’t consider them ‘together�� for them to have a separation

Possible Triggers: Not really

Closure: This ends on a big cliffhanger but the next book, Need for Speed, is out to read.

Safety: This one should be Safe for most safety gang readers
[spoilers removed]
]]> 50392429 Need for Speed is the continuation of Solo and Panther’s story and should only be read after book one, Danger Zone.

They train to serve their country.
They strive to be the best.
But only a select few can be...
The Elite

* * *

MATEO MORGAN
CALL SIGN: SOLO

Reckless, arrogant, and bold, Solo is as known in the U.S. Navy for his bad-boy reputation as he is for his skills as a fighter pilot. It’s a surprise to his peers, then, when he’s chosen to train and compete at the most prestigious naval aviation academy in the world.

MISSION RULES:
1. Kick everyone’s ass.
2. Do whatever it takes to win.
3. Do your best to distract the competition.
4. Especially when that competition is a gorgeous blue-eyed perfectionist who makes your blood run hot.

* * *

GRANT HUGHES
CALL SIGN: PANTHER

Disciplined, smart, and confident, Panther can’t afford not to play by the rules. As the son of a top Navy commander, all eyes are on him, and being anything less than number one is unacceptable.

MISSION RULES:
1. Keep it safe in the air.
2. Prove you’re more than Commander Hughes’s son.
3. No distractions. Stay focused.
4. Don’t fall for your competition—especially not the rebellious heartbreaker with lips made for sinning.

In the heat of the hot California sun, tempers flare and desires ignite as Solo and Panther try to resist their attraction while fighting to be number one.
With passion this intense, the question remains:
Who’s gonna come out on top?
]]> 178 Brooke Blaine NMmomof4 3 3 Stars

Overall Opinion: This was alright. It had the 2nd book in a trilogy syndrome of feeling like just a bunch of filler for me. While I appreciated that they connected more emotionally, I don’t feel like all that much happened. On to the next!

Brief Summary of the Storyline: This is Grant and Mateo’s story. This takes up where the cliffhanger left us. Mateo steps in in a big way for Grant and they get closer because of it. There are some sexy times and some feelings developed...and this ends with another cliffhanger.

Point Of View (POV): This alternated between Grant and Mateo’s POV.

Overall Pace of Story: Good. I never skimmed and I thought it flowed well

Instalove: No, but feelings were already starting to develop on the first book.

H1 (Hero #1) rating: 4 stars. Grant/Panther. I still liked him. I appreciated how he allowed himself to be vulnerable with Mateo.

H2 (Hero #2) rating: 4 stars. Mateo/Solo. I still liked him too. I appreciated how he takes care of Grant.

Sadness level: Low, no tissues needed

Push/Pull: No

Heat level: Good. They have some good tension, chemistry, and scenes -- but not so much it takes away from the story.

Descriptive sex: Yes

OW (Other Woman)/OM (Other Man) drama: No

Sex scene with OW or OM: No

Cheating: No

Separation: No

Possible Triggers: No

Closure: This ends in a pretty good place but with the final book in the trilogy, Classified, available now.

Safety: This one should be Safe for most safety gang readers
[spoilers removed]]]> 4.29 2020
author: Brooke Blaine
name: NMmomof4
average rating: 4.29
book published: 2020
rating: 3
read at: 2021/02/15
date added: 2021/02/15
shelves: 3-star, fbuddy-to-more, kindle-unlimited, military-security-government, mm, neighbors-live-with, safe, workplace, duet-trilogy-or-series
review:
3 Stars

Overall Opinion: This was alright. It had the 2nd book in a trilogy syndrome of feeling like just a bunch of filler for me. While I appreciated that they connected more emotionally, I don’t feel like all that much happened. On to the next!

Brief Summary of the Storyline: This is Grant and Mateo’s story. This takes up where the cliffhanger left us. Mateo steps in in a big way for Grant and they get closer because of it. There are some sexy times and some feelings developed...and this ends with another cliffhanger.

Point Of View (POV): This alternated between Grant and Mateo’s POV.

Overall Pace of Story: Good. I never skimmed and I thought it flowed well

Instalove: No, but feelings were already starting to develop on the first book.

H1 (Hero #1) rating: 4 stars. Grant/Panther. I still liked him. I appreciated how he allowed himself to be vulnerable with Mateo.

H2 (Hero #2) rating: 4 stars. Mateo/Solo. I still liked him too. I appreciated how he takes care of Grant.

Sadness level: Low, no tissues needed

Push/Pull: No

Heat level: Good. They have some good tension, chemistry, and scenes -- but not so much it takes away from the story.

Descriptive sex: Yes

OW (Other Woman)/OM (Other Man) drama: No

Sex scene with OW or OM: No

Cheating: No

Separation: No

Possible Triggers: No

Closure: This ends in a pretty good place but with the final book in the trilogy, Classified, available now.

Safety: This one should be Safe for most safety gang readers
[spoilers removed]
]]> 50392427 Classified is the final book of the Elite Series and should only be read after book one, Danger Zone, and book two, Need for Speed.

They train to serve their country.
They strive to be the best.
But only a select few can be...
The Elite

* * *

MATEO MORGAN
CALL SIGN: SOLO

Reckless, arrogant, and bold, Solo is as known in the U.S. Navy for his bad-boy reputation as he is for his skills as a fighter pilot. It’s a surprise to his peers, then, when he’s chosen to train and compete at the most prestigious naval aviation academy in the world.

MISSION RULES:
1.Kick everyone’s ass.
2.Do whatever it takes to win.
3.Do your best to distract the competition.
4.Especially when that competition is a gorgeous blue-eyed perfectionist who makes your blood run hot.

* * *

GRANT HUGHES
CALL SIGN: PANTHER

Disciplined, smart, and confident, Panther can’t afford not to play by the rules. As the son of a top Navy commander, all eyes are on him, and being anything less than number one is unacceptable.

MISSION RULES:
1.Keep it safe in the air.
2.Prove you’re more than Commander Hughes’s son.
3.No distractions. Stay focused.
4.Don’t fall for your competition—especially not the rebellious heartbreaker with lips made for sinning.

In the heat of the hot California sun, tempers flare and desires ignite as Solo and Panther try to resist their attraction while fighting to be number one.
With passion this intense, the question remains:
Who’s gonna come out on top?]]> 228 Brooke Blaine NMmomof4 3 3 Stars

Overall Opinion: Meh. This fed into my prejudice against trilogies because it felt like not much really happened in this book and book 2. While the pacing was fine, it just seemed uneventful and could’ve been edited down to even one book. The main thing that happened here is their conflict for the relationship, which I do feel was necessary for the overall storyline, but it too was kind of meh. Overall, the trilogy was 3 books with only 3 stars...just okay.

Brief Summary of the Storyline: This is the conclusion of Grant and Mateo’s story. It takes off where the last book left off. They are navigating a new part of their relationship while trying to figure out what their futures mean after the training program. There is some drama and some sexy times...and they get a HFN ending.

Point Of View (POV): This alternated between Grant and Mateo’s POV.

Overall Pace of Story: Good. I never skimmed.

Instalove:No, but feelings were already developed when this starts.

H1 (Hero #1) rating: 4 stars. Grant/Panther. I still liked him. I appreciated how he stood up for their relationship with his family.

H2 (Hero #2) rating: 4 stars. Mateo/Solo. I still liked him too. I liked how he was romantic for Grant.

Sadness level: Low, no tissues needed

Push/Pull: Yes [spoilers removed]

Heat level: Good. They have some good tension, chemistry, and scenes -- but not so much it takes away from the story.

Descriptive sex: Yes

OW (Other Woman)/OM (Other Man) drama: No

Sex scene with OW or OM: No

Cheating: No

Separation: Yes [spoilers removed]

Possible Triggers: No

Closure: This ends with what I would call a HFN ending [spoilers removed]. While it was cute, I would’ve liked a more in-depth farther glimpse of their future after investing and reading 3 books at this point.

Safety: This one should be Safe for most safety gang readers
[spoilers removed]]]> 4.29 2020
author: Brooke Blaine
name: NMmomof4
average rating: 4.29
book published: 2020
rating: 3
read at: 2021/02/15
date added: 2021/02/15
shelves: 3-star, fbuddy-to-more, kindle-unlimited, duet-trilogy-or-series, military-security-government, mm, neighbors-live-with, safe, separation-without-other-partners, workplace
review:
3 Stars

Overall Opinion: Meh. This fed into my prejudice against trilogies because it felt like not much really happened in this book and book 2. While the pacing was fine, it just seemed uneventful and could’ve been edited down to even one book. The main thing that happened here is their conflict for the relationship, which I do feel was necessary for the overall storyline, but it too was kind of meh. Overall, the trilogy was 3 books with only 3 stars...just okay.

Brief Summary of the Storyline: This is the conclusion of Grant and Mateo’s story. It takes off where the last book left off. They are navigating a new part of their relationship while trying to figure out what their futures mean after the training program. There is some drama and some sexy times...and they get a HFN ending.

Point Of View (POV): This alternated between Grant and Mateo’s POV.

Overall Pace of Story: Good. I never skimmed.

Instalove:No, but feelings were already developed when this starts.

H1 (Hero #1) rating: 4 stars. Grant/Panther. I still liked him. I appreciated how he stood up for their relationship with his family.

H2 (Hero #2) rating: 4 stars. Mateo/Solo. I still liked him too. I liked how he was romantic for Grant.

Sadness level: Low, no tissues needed

Push/Pull: Yes [spoilers removed]

Heat level: Good. They have some good tension, chemistry, and scenes -- but not so much it takes away from the story.

Descriptive sex: Yes

OW (Other Woman)/OM (Other Man) drama: No

Sex scene with OW or OM: No

Cheating: No

Separation: Yes [spoilers removed]

Possible Triggers: No

Closure: This ends with what I would call a HFN ending [spoilers removed]. While it was cute, I would’ve liked a more in-depth farther glimpse of their future after investing and reading 3 books at this point.

Safety: This one should be Safe for most safety gang readers
[spoilers removed]
]]> 43925166 Blonde. Gorgeous. Feisty.
I was captivated.
But it didn’t matter because when she walks out of my best friend’s bedroom half naked, I know I’ve lost my chance.

Now we’re roommates and constantly fighting about our living arrangements. Though we argue about everything, I can’t stop thinking about her in all the wrong ways. I should move out so I can finally get over her, but the selfish part of me can’t let go.

When tragedy strikes, we’re left to deal with it together. Instead of pushing her away, I pull her closer.

Just as we come to terms with our new reality, she reveals a life changing event that affects us both.
And I’m left to make the hardest decision of my life—remain friends or confess my feelings and risk it all.

BABY MINE is book 1 in the Hunter & Lennon duet and must be read first.]]> 342 Kennedy Fox NMmomof4 0 4.12 2019
author: Kennedy Fox
name: NMmomof4
average rating: 4.12
book published: 2019
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2021/01/22
shelves: maybe, duet-trilogy-or-series, freebie-or-loan
review:

]]> 17798654 Older cover edition of ASIN B00LLWDUDK


TAKE �� verb: to reach for and hold in one’s hands or get into one’s possession, power or control.

Logan Mitchell is a man who’s always been more than happy to take what he wants. It’s a philosophy that’s proven lucrative in both his business and personal life, and never was it more apparent than the night he laid eyes on Tate Morrison. After pulling out all the stops and convincing the sexy bartender to give him a try—he’s hooked.
Now, Logan finds himself in a predicament that demands more from him than a smart-ass answer and his innate ability to walk away when things get too deep.
He has a choice to make, and it’ll force him to do something he’s never done before—take a chance.

Tate Morrison knows all about taking a chance. He took the biggest one of his life the night he showed up at Logan’s apartment to explore his unexpected reaction to the man.
Ever since then, he’s thought about little else.
At first he was convinced his attraction was based solely on his body’s curiosity. But the more time he spends with the silver-tongued lawyer, the more Tate realizes that their physical chemistry is only the beginning.
He’s starting to catch a glimpse of what life with Logan would be like, and it’s one full of excitement and satisfaction—a far cry from what he had in the past with his soon to be ex-wife.

Each man will face their fears as they begin to understand the true meaning of give and take. Their feelings for one another will be tested, as will their very beliefs. But now that they’ve found love where they least expected it, will they be brave enough to reach out and take it?]]> 346 Ella Frank NMmomof4 0 DNF @68%

This is still was what I consider erotica versus erotic romance because it seemed to be sex first and story secondary. Not that there is anything wrong with that ]]> 4.42 2014
author: Ella Frank
name: NMmomof4
average rating: 4.42
book published: 2014
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2021/01/08
shelves: dnf, duet-trilogy-or-series, fbuddy-to-more, kindle-unlimited, unlikely-couple
review:
DNF @68%

This is still was what I consider erotica versus erotic romance because it seemed to be sex first and story secondary. Not that there is anything wrong with that
]]> 17798649 Older cover edition of ASIN B00GM2GOW8


Try �� verb: to make an attempt or effort to do something or in this case…someone.

Sex. Logan Mitchell loves it, and ever since he realized his raw sexual appeal at a young age, he has had no problem using it to his advantage. Men and women alike fall into his bed—after all, Logan is not one to discriminate. He lives by one motto—if something interests you, why not just take a chance and try?

And he wants to try Tate Morrison.

Just coming out of a four-year marriage with an ex-wife from hell, a relationship is the last thing on Tate’s mind. He’s starting fresh and trying to get back on his feet with a new job at an upscale bar in downtown Chicago.

The only problem is, Tate has caught the unwavering and unwelcome attention of Mr. Logan Mitchell �� a regular at the bar and a man who always gets what he wants.

Night after night Tate fends off the persistent advances of the undeniably charismatic man, but after an explosive moment in the bar, all bets are off as he finds his body stirring with a different desire than his mind.

As arrogance, stubbornness and sexual tension sizzles between the two, it threatens to change the very course of their lives.

Logan doesn’t do relationships. Tate doesn’t do men. But what would happen if they both just gave in and…tried?

GENRE: M/M]]> 353 Ella Frank NMmomof4 3 3 Stars

Overall Opinion: This was an alright start to the series. I was gung-ho about starting a trilogy for once! I thought a mm trilogy might be exactly what I need to help get out of my book funk. I’m sad to say that this was just okay for me and didn’t necessarily live up to my expectations after reading such raving reviews. I think I wanted more of them connecting emotionally, but I’m hopeful that will come in the later books...so on to the next!

Brief Summary of the Storyline: This is Logan and Tate’s story. Logan goes to his regular bar by his work and meets the new bartender, Tate. He is instantly interested and starts a heavy pursuit. The biggest issue is that Tate is straight. He has been separated and has been going through a hostile divorce and hadn’t been with anyone since his soon to be ex wife, so he is really thrown off when he starts getting pursued by Logan. He cannot deny the strange attraction he feels towards Logan’s confidence and can’t stop thinking about him. There are a good bit of sexy times, some personal battles, and some family drama...and this ends on a mild cliffhanger.

Point Of View (POV): This alternated between Logan and Tate’s POV.

Overall Pace of Story: Alright. I never skimmed but it did feel slow at times and even felt possibly stretched out to potentially make it a series versus a standalone...might be my pet peeve showing.

Instalove: No, they take a while to develop feelings (and haven’t shared ‘ILYs��)

H1 (Hero 1) rating: 3.5 stars. Logan. I liked him. I wanted him to be more vulnerable, because I liked him more the few times that he was vulnerable for Tate.

H2 (Hero 2) rating: 4 stars. Tate. I liked him. I appreciated his struggle as well as how he was able to be honest about his feelings with Logan.

Sadness level: Low, no tissues needed

Push/Pull: Yes [spoilers removed]

Heat level: Hot. They have some hot tension, chemistry, and scenes. This had a lot of scenes. It was probably what I classify as more erotica (sex focus/story secondary) than erotic romance (romance with descriptive sex) because of the amount of sex.

Descriptive sex: Yes

OW (Other Woman)/OM (Other Man) drama: Mild jealousies

Sex scene with OW or OM: Yes [spoilers removed]

Cheating: No

Separation: No

Possible Triggers: Not really

Closure: This ends on a cliffhanger of sorts but the next book, Take has been released and is available.

Safety: This one should be either Safe or Safe with exception for most safety gang readers depending on personal preferences
[spoilers removed]]]> 4.20 2013
author: Ella Frank
name: NMmomof4
average rating: 4.20
book published: 2013
rating: 3
read at: 2021/01/06
date added: 2021/01/06
shelves: duet-trilogy-or-series, kindle-unlimited, 3-star, mm, safe-with-exception, unlikely-couple, workplace, safe
review:
3 Stars

Overall Opinion: This was an alright start to the series. I was gung-ho about starting a trilogy for once! I thought a mm trilogy might be exactly what I need to help get out of my book funk. I’m sad to say that this was just okay for me and didn’t necessarily live up to my expectations after reading such raving reviews. I think I wanted more of them connecting emotionally, but I’m hopeful that will come in the later books...so on to the next!

Brief Summary of the Storyline: This is Logan and Tate’s story. Logan goes to his regular bar by his work and meets the new bartender, Tate. He is instantly interested and starts a heavy pursuit. The biggest issue is that Tate is straight. He has been separated and has been going through a hostile divorce and hadn’t been with anyone since his soon to be ex wife, so he is really thrown off when he starts getting pursued by Logan. He cannot deny the strange attraction he feels towards Logan’s confidence and can’t stop thinking about him. There are a good bit of sexy times, some personal battles, and some family drama...and this ends on a mild cliffhanger.

Point Of View (POV): This alternated between Logan and Tate’s POV.

Overall Pace of Story: Alright. I never skimmed but it did feel slow at times and even felt possibly stretched out to potentially make it a series versus a standalone...might be my pet peeve showing.

Instalove: No, they take a while to develop feelings (and haven’t shared ‘ILYs��)

H1 (Hero 1) rating: 3.5 stars. Logan. I liked him. I wanted him to be more vulnerable, because I liked him more the few times that he was vulnerable for Tate.

H2 (Hero 2) rating: 4 stars. Tate. I liked him. I appreciated his struggle as well as how he was able to be honest about his feelings with Logan.

Sadness level: Low, no tissues needed

Push/Pull: Yes [spoilers removed]

Heat level: Hot. They have some hot tension, chemistry, and scenes. This had a lot of scenes. It was probably what I classify as more erotica (sex focus/story secondary) than erotic romance (romance with descriptive sex) because of the amount of sex.

Descriptive sex: Yes

OW (Other Woman)/OM (Other Man) drama: Mild jealousies

Sex scene with OW or OM: Yes [spoilers removed]

Cheating: No

Separation: No

Possible Triggers: Not really

Closure: This ends on a cliffhanger of sorts but the next book, Take has been released and is available.

Safety: This one should be either Safe or Safe with exception for most safety gang readers depending on personal preferences
[spoilers removed]
]]> 37564071 It was love at first sight when I met Mr. Cane.
He was handsome, broody, tattooed, and rich. For years, he's been mine. He just didn't know it.

I wasn't expecting to fall in love with him, or for him to want me in the ways that he did.
None of it was ever supposed to happen, but after all we've done together, it's too late to turn back now. A once harmless crush had blossomed into so much more.

CANE
When we first met, she was just a kid - my best friend's daughter. A sweet, young girl with a big heart. But now, she's a young woman who knows what she wants, and all she wants is me.

I've tried holding back, pretending the connection meant nothing, but my sweet candy cane made it impossible. If anyone finds out, I'll be ruined. I've worked too hard to lose everything I've built. But there's just something about her that tempts me, making me want to sacrifice just about anything to have her.]]> 314 Shanora Williams NMmomof4 0 3.72 2018
author: Shanora Williams
name: NMmomof4
average rating: 3.72
book published: 2018
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2021/01/01
shelves: maybe, duet-trilogy-or-series, kindle-unlimited
review:

]]> 37914571 “What do you do when you meet your soul mate? No wait�� that’s too easy. What do you do when you meet your soul mate and have to spend a lifetime loving him in secret?
I’ll tell you what you do.
You lie.��

REN

Ren was eight when he learned that love doesn’t exist—that the one person who was supposed to adore him only cared how much he was worth.
His mother sold him and for two years, he lived in terror.
But then�� he ran.
He thought he’d run on his own. Turned out, he took something of theirs by accident and it became the one thing he never wanted and the only thing he ever needed.

DELLA

I was young when I fell in love with him, when he switched from my world to my everything.
My parents bought him for cheap labour, just like they had with many other kids, and he had the scars to prove it.
At the start, he hated me, and I could understand why.
For years he was my worst enemy, fiercest protector, and dearest friend.
But by the end�� he loved me.
The only problem was, he loved me in an entirely different way to the way I loved him.
And slowly, my secret drove us apart.]]> 386 Pepper Winters 1986221946 NMmomof4 3 2.5 - 3 Stars

Overall Opinion: I struggled with this one and even in how to rate it. The pacing was all off for me. I never connected with the h and I think that was because of the way we get her POV. I never skimmed, but I felt like she was just rambling with no purpose and going in circles that weren’t really all that relevant to the overall story. The H made the story for me though! He was amazing. I also liked the uniqueness of the storyline even though I am bummed that I’m part of the minority (yet again ]]> 4.38 2018
author: Pepper Winters
name: NMmomof4
average rating: 4.38
book published: 2018
rating: 3
read at: 2020/11/29
date added: 2020/11/30
shelves: duet-trilogy-or-series, 2-5-star, 3-star, family-aspect, neighbors-live-with, safe-with-exception, not-safe, suspense, unlikely-couple
review:
2.5 - 3 Stars

Overall Opinion: I struggled with this one and even in how to rate it. The pacing was all off for me. I never connected with the h and I think that was because of the way we get her POV. I never skimmed, but I felt like she was just rambling with no purpose and going in circles that weren’t really all that relevant to the overall story. The H made the story for me though! He was amazing. I also liked the uniqueness of the storyline even though I am bummed that I’m part of the minority (yet again
]]> 33361549
Will Logan choose them? Or will we watch them burn together?

It's time to fuck with their minds.
It's time to finish it all.
It's time to paint it all red...

Monsters don't usually wish for happily-ever-afters.]]> 177 S.T. Abby NMmomof4 4 4 Stars

4 Stars Overall Series Rating

Overall Opinion: This was a good conclusion to the series! I think I wanted a little bit more in the romance department, but I also understood that there were a bunch of the suspenseful elements that needed closure too. I’m going to keep it at 4 stars for my rating though because I think it was a pretty good ending, making an overall series rating of 4 stars. It was a good series when I wanted something completely different and I would recommend for anyone looking for a dark read!

Brief Summary of the Storyline: This is the conclusion of Lana and Logan’s story. It continues where the cliffhanger leaves us on the fourth book. It’s still a story about a FBI profiler and a vigilante/revenge serial killer falling in love. I’m going to keep it super vague to avoid ruining it.

Point Of View (POV): This alternated between Lana and Logan’s POV.

Overall Pace of Story: Good. I never skimmed and I thought it flowed well.

Instalove: No, but feelings of love were already developed and shared from the previous books

H (Hero) rating: 4.5 stars. Logan. I still really liked him and how he cared for the h.

h (heroine) rating: 4 stars. Lana. I still liked her. I appreciated how she cared for the H and didn’t hold his reactions against him

Sadness level: Low, no tissues needed

Push/Pull: No

Heat level: Alright. They have some tension, chemistry, and scenes -- but not very many scenes and not so much it takes away from the story.

Descriptive sex: Yes

OW (Other Woman)/OM (Other Man) drama: No

Sex scene with OW or OM: No

Cheating: No

Separation: Yes, and no other partners mentioned or suggested for either h or H

Possible Triggers: Yes [spoilers removed]

Closure: This ends with a messed up version of a HEA. Pretty good closure though...

Safety: This one should be Safe with exception for most safety gang readers
[spoilers removed]]]> 4.56 2016
author: S.T. Abby
name: NMmomof4
average rating: 4.56
book published: 2016
rating: 4
read at: 2020/11/28
date added: 2020/11/28
shelves: 4-star, dark, duet-trilogy-or-series, kindle-unlimited, military-security-government, mob-bad-guy-h, safe-with-exception, separation-without-other-partners, suspense, unlikely-couple
review:
4 Stars

4 Stars Overall Series Rating

Overall Opinion: This was a good conclusion to the series! I think I wanted a little bit more in the romance department, but I also understood that there were a bunch of the suspenseful elements that needed closure too. I’m going to keep it at 4 stars for my rating though because I think it was a pretty good ending, making an overall series rating of 4 stars. It was a good series when I wanted something completely different and I would recommend for anyone looking for a dark read!

Brief Summary of the Storyline: This is the conclusion of Lana and Logan’s story. It continues where the cliffhanger leaves us on the fourth book. It’s still a story about a FBI profiler and a vigilante/revenge serial killer falling in love. I’m going to keep it super vague to avoid ruining it.

Point Of View (POV): This alternated between Lana and Logan’s POV.

Overall Pace of Story: Good. I never skimmed and I thought it flowed well.

Instalove: No, but feelings of love were already developed and shared from the previous books

H (Hero) rating: 4.5 stars. Logan. I still really liked him and how he cared for the h.

h (heroine) rating: 4 stars. Lana. I still liked her. I appreciated how she cared for the H and didn’t hold his reactions against him

Sadness level: Low, no tissues needed

Push/Pull: No

Heat level: Alright. They have some tension, chemistry, and scenes -- but not very many scenes and not so much it takes away from the story.

Descriptive sex: Yes

OW (Other Woman)/OM (Other Man) drama: No

Sex scene with OW or OM: No

Cheating: No

Separation: Yes, and no other partners mentioned or suggested for either h or H

Possible Triggers: Yes [spoilers removed]

Closure: This ends with a messed up version of a HEA. Pretty good closure though...

Safety: This one should be Safe with exception for most safety gang readers
[spoilers removed]
]]> 33361546
But that's never happened to me...

I've never felt conflicted on any case. Right is right and wrong is wrong. It's simple. Black and white. There's no such thing as a gray area.

But fuck this case. I don't even know what side I'm on anymore. I don't understand how this town can continue to function without breaking under the weight of all the lies they've spun and lived.

Every time I find a shard of truth, my gut twists, my heart beats faster, and I hate this place a little more. Every time I think I've heard the worst, another truth is dug up from the ashes of more burning lies.

Worst of all, I don't even know who to trust anymore. My head is all messed up.

I pride myself on being impossible to fool.
I'm an expert at knowing when someone is lying to me.
I never believed in being blinded by love...until Lana.

**BE WARNED: Some flashbacks can get intense to readers with a sensitive trigger. Skip the blocks in italics if that's the case.]]> 141 S.T. Abby NMmomof4 4 4 Stars

Overall Opinion: This was yet another good continuation of the series. I appreciated the h’s need for the H to ground her. I also liked the H’s protectiveness over the h. I am still enjoying their connection and this is definitely the worst cliffhanger in the series so far �� so, on to the next!

Brief Summary of the Storyline: This is Lana and Logan’s story. It continues where the cliffhanger leaves us on the third book. It’s still a story about a FBI profiler and a vigilante/revenge serial killer falling in love. I’m going to keep it super vague to avoid ruining it.

Point Of View (POV): This alternated between Lana and Logan’s POV.

Overall Pace of Story: Good. I never skimmed and I thought it flowed well.

Instalove: No, but feelings of love were already developed and shared from the previous books

H (Hero) rating: 4.5 stars. Logan. I still really liked him. He seems good right down to his core.

h (heroine) rating: 4 stars. Lana. I still liked her. I appreciated how she needed the H and recognized that in herself.

Sadness level: Low, no tissues needed

Push/Pull: No

Heat level: Good. They have some good tension, chemistry, and scenes -- but not so much it takes away from the story.

Descriptive sex: Yes

OW (Other Woman)/OM (Other Man) drama: Yes, but mild [spoilers removed]

Sex scene with OW or OM: No

Cheating: No

Separation: No

Possible Triggers: Yes [spoilers removed]

Closure: This ends on another cliffy, but the series is complete and available.

Safety: This one should be Safe with exception for most safety gang readers
[spoilers removed]]]> 4.52 2016
author: S.T. Abby
name: NMmomof4
average rating: 4.52
book published: 2016
rating: 4
read at: 2020/11/28
date added: 2020/11/28
shelves: 4-star, dark, duet-trilogy-or-series, kindle-unlimited, military-security-government, mob-bad-guy-h, safe-with-exception, suspense, unlikely-couple
review:
4 Stars

Overall Opinion: This was yet another good continuation of the series. I appreciated the h’s need for the H to ground her. I also liked the H’s protectiveness over the h. I am still enjoying their connection and this is definitely the worst cliffhanger in the series so far �� so, on to the next!

Brief Summary of the Storyline: This is Lana and Logan’s story. It continues where the cliffhanger leaves us on the third book. It’s still a story about a FBI profiler and a vigilante/revenge serial killer falling in love. I’m going to keep it super vague to avoid ruining it.

Point Of View (POV): This alternated between Lana and Logan’s POV.

Overall Pace of Story: Good. I never skimmed and I thought it flowed well.

Instalove: No, but feelings of love were already developed and shared from the previous books

H (Hero) rating: 4.5 stars. Logan. I still really liked him. He seems good right down to his core.

h (heroine) rating: 4 stars. Lana. I still liked her. I appreciated how she needed the H and recognized that in herself.

Sadness level: Low, no tissues needed

Push/Pull: No

Heat level: Good. They have some good tension, chemistry, and scenes -- but not so much it takes away from the story.

Descriptive sex: Yes

OW (Other Woman)/OM (Other Man) drama: Yes, but mild [spoilers removed]

Sex scene with OW or OM: No

Cheating: No

Separation: No

Possible Triggers: Yes [spoilers removed]

Closure: This ends on another cliffy, but the series is complete and available.

Safety: This one should be Safe with exception for most safety gang readers
[spoilers removed]
]]> 33131867 Left too little.
I had nothing to lose...until him.

**

~Lana~

I didn't expect him.
I didn't want to fall in love.
But I can't let him go.

Logan Bennett makes the world a safer place.
He's brilliant.
He's a hero.
He locks away the sick and depraved.
But while he's saving lives, I'm taking them. Collecting the debts that are owed to me.

Ten years ago, they took from me. They left me for dead.
They should have made sure I stayed dead.

Now I'm taking from them.
One name at a time.

I've trained for too long.
I've been patient.
I can't stop now.

Revenge is best served cold...

They never see me coming, until I paint their walls red.

Logan doesn't know how they hurt me. He doesn't know about the screams they ignored. He doesn't know how twisted that town really is.

He just knows people are dying.
He doesn't know he's in love with their killer.

No one suspects a dead girl.
And Logan doesn't suspect the girl in his bed.

They're looking for a monster.
Not a girl who loves red.
Not a girl in love.

I'm a faceless nightmare.

At least until I tell them the story they've pretended never happened.

But in the end, will Logan choose them? Or will we watch them burn together?

**Graphic
**Adult language
**Some triggers could be too much for the easily disturbed reader
**Sexual content
**Fucked up moral compass; read at your own risk.]]> 132 S.T. Abby NMmomof4 4 4 Stars

Overall Opinion: This was a great start to the series. It actually reminds me of the Deviant series that I read a long time ago with regards to it being the short serials with fast pacing. I think I actually prefer this type of series versus the duet or trilogy where you feel it being stretched out for the sake of multiple books. Love the Dexter-esc vibes going on and their connection has been on point!

Brief Summary of the Storyline: This is Lana and Logan’s story. They meet when Logan’s work colleague crashes and burns when trying to hit on Lana and they hit it off immediately. Logan is a profiler for the FBI and Lana is a vigilante/revenge serial killer...enough said ]]> 4.21 2016
author: S.T. Abby
name: NMmomof4
average rating: 4.21
book published: 2016
rating: 4
read at: 2020/11/27
date added: 2020/11/28
shelves: kindle-unlimited, 4-star, dark, military-security-government, mob-bad-guy-h, safe-with-exception, suspense, unlikely-couple, duet-trilogy-or-series
review:
4 Stars

Overall Opinion: This was a great start to the series. It actually reminds me of the Deviant series that I read a long time ago with regards to it being the short serials with fast pacing. I think I actually prefer this type of series versus the duet or trilogy where you feel it being stretched out for the sake of multiple books. Love the Dexter-esc vibes going on and their connection has been on point!

Brief Summary of the Storyline: This is Lana and Logan’s story. They meet when Logan’s work colleague crashes and burns when trying to hit on Lana and they hit it off immediately. Logan is a profiler for the FBI and Lana is a vigilante/revenge serial killer...enough said
]]> 33271162 Or at least I was...until her.

****
LOGAN

I've had tunnel vision for one main goal for so long, that I forgot there was a whole other world just outside. Until Lana.

She's everything I never expected, and I love the fact I can never guess her every move or reaction. It's part of the reason I keep falling. But I also know she shuts me out, hides things from me she feels she can't share.

One day, I hope she trusts me enough to share.

It isn't until my job puts her at risk that I realize just how fierce she is, but it doesn't stop me from doing all I can to protect her. I should walk away to protect her better, but I can't. Instead, I'm forced to find other ways to keep her safe.

I just hope it's enough.

Though she is fierce, she's still fragile...

Right?]]> 115 S.T. Abby NMmomof4 4 4 Stars

Overall Opinion: This was a good continuation of the series. I liked how the H messed up but quickly groveled and made up for it. I’m still really liking their connection. I’m a big fan of the tv series Dexter, so this series is right up my alley! On to the next!

Brief Summary of the Storyline: This is Lana and Logan’s story. It continues where the cliffhanger leaves us on the first book. It’s still a story about a FBI profiler and a vigilante/revenge serial killer falling in love. I’m going to keep it super vague to avoid ruining it.

Point Of View (POV): This alternated between Lana and Logan’s POV.

Overall Pace of Story: Good. I never skimmed and I thought it flowed well.

Instalove: No, but they did move fast in the grand scheme of things (‘ILYs�� still not shared)

H (Hero) rating: 4.5 stars. Logan. He’s still pretty great (even though he messed up a little)

h (heroine) rating: 4 stars. Lana. I still liked her.

Sadness level: Low, no tissues needed

Push/Pull: Yes [spoilers removed]

Heat level: Hot. They have some hot tension, chemistry, and scenes -- but not so much it takes away from the story.

Descriptive sex: Yes

OW (Other Woman)/OM (Other Man) drama: Yes, but mild [spoilers removed]

Sex scene with OW or OM: No

Cheating: No

Separation: Yes, but for only maybe a couple hours [spoilers removed]

Possible Triggers: Yes [spoilers removed]

Closure: This ends on another cliffy, but the series is complete and available.

Safety: This one should be Safe with exception for most safety gang readers
[spoilers removed]]]> 4.37 2016
author: S.T. Abby
name: NMmomof4
average rating: 4.37
book published: 2016
rating: 4
read at: 2020/11/28
date added: 2020/11/28
shelves: 4-star, dark, kindle-unlimited, military-security-government, mob-bad-guy-h, safe-with-exception, separation-without-other-partners, suspense, unlikely-couple, duet-trilogy-or-series
review:
4 Stars

Overall Opinion: This was a good continuation of the series. I liked how the H messed up but quickly groveled and made up for it. I’m still really liking their connection. I’m a big fan of the tv series Dexter, so this series is right up my alley! On to the next!

Brief Summary of the Storyline: This is Lana and Logan’s story. It continues where the cliffhanger leaves us on the first book. It’s still a story about a FBI profiler and a vigilante/revenge serial killer falling in love. I’m going to keep it super vague to avoid ruining it.

Point Of View (POV): This alternated between Lana and Logan’s POV.

Overall Pace of Story: Good. I never skimmed and I thought it flowed well.

Instalove: No, but they did move fast in the grand scheme of things (‘ILYs�� still not shared)

H (Hero) rating: 4.5 stars. Logan. He’s still pretty great (even though he messed up a little)

h (heroine) rating: 4 stars. Lana. I still liked her.

Sadness level: Low, no tissues needed

Push/Pull: Yes [spoilers removed]

Heat level: Hot. They have some hot tension, chemistry, and scenes -- but not so much it takes away from the story.

Descriptive sex: Yes

OW (Other Woman)/OM (Other Man) drama: Yes, but mild [spoilers removed]

Sex scene with OW or OM: No

Cheating: No

Separation: Yes, but for only maybe a couple hours [spoilers removed]

Possible Triggers: Yes [spoilers removed]

Closure: This ends on another cliffy, but the series is complete and available.

Safety: This one should be Safe with exception for most safety gang readers
[spoilers removed]
]]> 33304878
Logan Bennett makes me want to have a future not tainted by the constant hunger for revenge. Doesn't mean I can stop. Doesn't mean I want to stop. It just means I want more...one day.

But how do you make a good man love the monster inside you without stripping his soul away as well? He is all the best parts of me right now, resurrecting bits of my heart I forgot could even exist.

He makes me feel something other than cold.

He also thinks I'm weak and fragile. Something I laugh about to myself, while secretly soaking in all his protectiveness and concern.

If anyone touches him, harms him, or even threatens him, then they should probably run. Because his girlfriend is a little bit crazy. They just don't know it yet.]]> 139 S.T. Abby NMmomof4 4 4 Stars

Overall Opinion: This was another good continuation of the series. I appreciated the h’s relationship with the other (female) FBI agent and how they formed an unlikely friendship. I’m anxious to see how it all pans out! On to the next...

Brief Summary of the Storyline: This is Lana and Logan’s story. It continues where the cliffhanger leaves us on the second book. It’s still a story about a FBI profiler and a vigilante/revenge serial killer falling in love. I’m going to keep it super vague to avoid ruining it.

Point Of View (POV): This alternated between Lana and Logan’s POV.

Overall Pace of Story: Good. I never skimmed and I thought it flowed well.

Instalove: No, but feelings were already developed from the previous books

H (Hero) rating: 4.5 stars. Logan. He’s still awesome!

h (heroine) rating: 4 stars. Lana. I still liked her. She is smart, feisty, and caring.

Sadness level: Low, no tissues needed

Push/Pull: No

Heat level: Hot. They have some hot tension, chemistry, and scenes -- but not so much it takes away from the story.

Descriptive sex: Yes

OW (Other Woman)/OM (Other Man) drama: No

Sex scene with OW or OM: No

Cheating: No

Separation: No

Possible Triggers: Yes [spoilers removed]

Closure: This ends on another cliffy, but the series is complete and available.

Safety: This one should be Safe with exception for most safety gang readers
[spoilers removed]]]> 4.40 2016
author: S.T. Abby
name: NMmomof4
average rating: 4.40
book published: 2016
rating: 4
read at: 2020/11/28
date added: 2020/11/28
shelves: 4-star, dark, duet-trilogy-or-series, kindle-unlimited, military-security-government, mob-bad-guy-h, safe-with-exception, suspense, unlikely-couple
review:
4 Stars

Overall Opinion: This was another good continuation of the series. I appreciated the h’s relationship with the other (female) FBI agent and how they formed an unlikely friendship. I’m anxious to see how it all pans out! On to the next...

Brief Summary of the Storyline: This is Lana and Logan’s story. It continues where the cliffhanger leaves us on the second book. It’s still a story about a FBI profiler and a vigilante/revenge serial killer falling in love. I’m going to keep it super vague to avoid ruining it.

Point Of View (POV): This alternated between Lana and Logan’s POV.

Overall Pace of Story: Good. I never skimmed and I thought it flowed well.

Instalove: No, but feelings were already developed from the previous books

H (Hero) rating: 4.5 stars. Logan. He’s still awesome!

h (heroine) rating: 4 stars. Lana. I still liked her. She is smart, feisty, and caring.

Sadness level: Low, no tissues needed

Push/Pull: No

Heat level: Hot. They have some hot tension, chemistry, and scenes -- but not so much it takes away from the story.

Descriptive sex: Yes

OW (Other Woman)/OM (Other Man) drama: No

Sex scene with OW or OM: No

Cheating: No

Separation: No

Possible Triggers: Yes [spoilers removed]

Closure: This ends on another cliffy, but the series is complete and available.

Safety: This one should be Safe with exception for most safety gang readers
[spoilers removed]
]]> 24915905
Some name calling, a lot of fighting, and even more loving.

For two years, Jameson Kane and Tatum O'Shea have made their relationship work. It might not work for anyone else on the planet, but it's perfect for them. Their own personal fairy tale.

But can Jameson give Tatum a true “happily ever after��? He's not sure.

Where would the devil go to buy a throne, anyway?

WARNING: contains little plot, a lot of sex, and was written for the author's own personal enjoyment. Also graphic sexual situations and sadomasochistic themes.

50,000 words - a novella]]> 184 Stylo Fantome NMmomof4 3 3 Stars

3.5 Average Overall Series Stars

Overall Opinion: Meh. I feel like there was too much time spent on sex scenes and not enough substance. I could’ve done without a lot of the stuff that was focused on and it left me wanting for more closure. [spoilers removed] Another dang it moment. I really did like the first book though...

Brief Summary of the Storyline: This is the conclusion of Tate and Jameson’s story. I’m not going to really say anything here but it is basically a novella to give an extended epilogue with a HEA.

Point Of View (POV): This alternated between focusing on Tate and Jameson in 3rd person narrative.

Overall Pace of Story: Alright. I never skimmed but I felt like the pacing was kind of off with the filler nonsense and how rushed the very end was.

Instalove: No, but they’re in love when this begins.

H (Hero) rating: 4.5 stars. Jameson. I really liked that we got a good bit of his inner thoughts and feelings especially about the past. It made me like him more.

h (heroine) rating: 3 stars. Tate. She was alright, but still kind of too all over the place for my liking.

Sadness level: Low, no tissues needed

Push/Pull: No

Heat level: Hot. They have some hot tension, chemistry, and scenes -- but not so much it takes away from the story. [spoilers removed]

Descriptive sex: Yes

OW (Other Woman)/OM (Other Man) drama: Yes [spoilers removed]

Sex scene with OW or OM: No

Cheating: No

Separation: No

Possible Triggers: Yes [spoilers removed]

Closure: I definitely wanted more closure after reading 4 books! It was basically an extended epilogue, so why not some major closure?! I’ll call it an HEA... but barely [spoilers removed].

Safety: This one should be Safe for most safety gang readers
[spoilers removed]]]> 4.13 2015
author: Stylo Fantome
name: NMmomof4
average rating: 4.13
book published: 2015
rating: 3
read at: 2020/10/27
date added: 2020/10/27
shelves: 3-star, dark, famous-wealthy-popular, duet-trilogy-or-series, kindle-unlimited, neighbors-live-with
review:
3 Stars

3.5 Average Overall Series Stars

Overall Opinion: Meh. I feel like there was too much time spent on sex scenes and not enough substance. I could’ve done without a lot of the stuff that was focused on and it left me wanting for more closure. [spoilers removed] Another dang it moment. I really did like the first book though...

Brief Summary of the Storyline: This is the conclusion of Tate and Jameson’s story. I’m not going to really say anything here but it is basically a novella to give an extended epilogue with a HEA.

Point Of View (POV): This alternated between focusing on Tate and Jameson in 3rd person narrative.

Overall Pace of Story: Alright. I never skimmed but I felt like the pacing was kind of off with the filler nonsense and how rushed the very end was.

Instalove: No, but they’re in love when this begins.

H (Hero) rating: 4.5 stars. Jameson. I really liked that we got a good bit of his inner thoughts and feelings especially about the past. It made me like him more.

h (heroine) rating: 3 stars. Tate. She was alright, but still kind of too all over the place for my liking.

Sadness level: Low, no tissues needed

Push/Pull: No

Heat level: Hot. They have some hot tension, chemistry, and scenes -- but not so much it takes away from the story. [spoilers removed]

Descriptive sex: Yes

OW (Other Woman)/OM (Other Man) drama: Yes [spoilers removed]

Sex scene with OW or OM: No

Cheating: No

Separation: No

Possible Triggers: Yes [spoilers removed]

Closure: I definitely wanted more closure after reading 4 books! It was basically an extended epilogue, so why not some major closure?! I’ll call it an HEA... but barely [spoilers removed].

Safety: This one should be Safe for most safety gang readers
[spoilers removed]
]]> 22919030 Jameson Kane did to Tatum O'Shea goes so far beyond hurt, he is well into the realm of unforgivable. Tate says she wants him gone for good, and he quickly learns that the old saying, “you don't know what you've got 'til it's gone��, is most definitely true.

But Jameson has never been very good at following instructions, and when Satan decides to seek redemption, he'll go to great lengths to get it. He proposes one last game �� one to end them all, if she agrees to play. He is very confident that he can win, but Tate warns him that it's not possible; she will not lose again. Little does she know, Jameson is prepared to do whatever it takes. Prepared to lay the entire world at her feet. Prepared to bear his soul.

What he didn't count on, though, was handing the damn thing over.

Now Jameson can only pray that his evil ways haven't rubbed off on Tate too much. Sometimes, it's very difficult to tell who the Devil really is ��


WARNING: contains a semi-reformed devil, a woman scorned, and more Sanders than anyone has a right to witness. Also graphic sexual situations and strong language.]]> 250 Stylo Fantome NMmomof4 3 4 Stars (Originally Read 12/27/2014)

3 Stars (Re-Read 10/26/2020)

Overall Opinion: Dang. This was a bummer. It felt like the stereotypical (and dreaded) 2nd book in a trilogy that basically serves as filler. I didn’t feel like much actually happened. Except, sadly, the h started to bug me in this book where I liked her in the first. On to the next though, so ]]> 4.20 2014
author: Stylo Fantome
name: NMmomof4
average rating: 4.20
book published: 2014
rating: 3
read at: 2020/10/26
date added: 2020/10/27
shelves: 3-star, dark, famous-wealthy-popular, kindle-unlimited, re-read, safe-with-exception, separation-without-other-partners, duet-trilogy-or-series
review:
4 Stars (Originally Read 12/27/2014)

3 Stars (Re-Read 10/26/2020)

Overall Opinion: Dang. This was a bummer. It felt like the stereotypical (and dreaded) 2nd book in a trilogy that basically serves as filler. I didn’t feel like much actually happened. Except, sadly, the h started to bug me in this book where I liked her in the first. On to the next though, so
]]> 23005622 The Devil has met his match

When Tatum O'Shea decides it's time for some payback, no one is safe from her new game - not even the devil himself. Tate is going to get her happily ever after, even if it means making everyone else unhappy in the process.

But a persistent Jameson, a meddling Sanders, and an amorous baseball player make it very hard for a girl to keep her focus, and suddenly it seems Tate has a few too many suitors for her fairy tale ending.

Sometimes, it's very difficult to tell who Prince Charming really is ...


WARNING: may induce Kindle throwing, screaming at fictional characters, and possibly a few tears. Also graphic sexual situations and sadomasochistic themes.]]> 271 Stylo Fantome NMmomof4 3 4 Stars (Originally Read 12/27/2014)

3 Stars (Re-Read 10/26/2020)

Overall Opinion: Dang it. This was still not close to up to par with the first book in the series. I feel let down. This also felt like filler to a certain extent and I really struggled with the h throughout. I was also frustrated with the ending. I’m going to read the novella and final book in the series with major hopes that I’ll get an HEA! Wish me luck...

Brief Summary of the Storyline: This is Tate and Jameson’s story. I’m going to, again, be super vague in hopes of not ruining it. This continues where the second book left off. They have other obstacles to work through to find their happiness. There are some big reveals, some hot sexy times, and some sweet moments...and they get a HFN ending.

Point Of View (POV): This alternated between focusing on Tate and Jameson in 3rd person narrative.

Overall Pace of Story: Good. I never skimmed and I thought it flowed well.

Instalove: No, but strong feelings are already there when this begins.

H (Hero) rating: 3.5 stars. Jameson. I definitely liked him more than the h in this book! Yes, he sucked at communication also and there were definite times where I wanted to shake him �� but along with his inner thoughts and feelings made all that a little more tolerable for me.

h (heroine) rating: 2.5 stars. Tate. I struggled with her a lot in this book. I just wanted her to communicate! I hated how she always ran and how she still struggled with the idea that the H cared for her.

Sadness level: Low, no tissues needed

Push/Pull: Yes [spoilers removed]

Heat level: Hot. They have some hot tension, chemistry, and scenes -- but not so much it takes away from the story. [spoilers removed]
Descriptive sex: Yes

OW (Other Woman)/OM (Other Man) drama: Yes [spoilers removed]

Sex scene with OW or OM: No

Cheating: No

Separation: Yes [spoilers removed]

Possible Triggers: Yes [spoilers removed]

Closure: This had alright closure with what I would call a HFN ending. There is another book added to the series that I hadn’t read the first time, so I’m just not sure if it wasn’t out yet or I didn’t notice it. I definitely wanted more closure and a HEA and I’m kind of frustrated that I have to now go read a fourth book (novella), Completion, to get that potential HEA.

Safety: This one is probably Safe with exception for most safety gang readers depending on personal preferences
[spoilers removed]]]> 4.32 2014
author: Stylo Fantome
name: NMmomof4
average rating: 4.32
book published: 2014
rating: 3
read at: 2020/10/26
date added: 2020/10/27
shelves: 3-star, dark, duet-trilogy-or-series, famous-wealthy-popular, kindle-unlimited, re-read, safe-with-exception, separation-with-other-partners, separation-without-other-partners
review:
4 Stars (Originally Read 12/27/2014)

3 Stars (Re-Read 10/26/2020)

Overall Opinion: Dang it. This was still not close to up to par with the first book in the series. I feel let down. This also felt like filler to a certain extent and I really struggled with the h throughout. I was also frustrated with the ending. I’m going to read the novella and final book in the series with major hopes that I’ll get an HEA! Wish me luck...

Brief Summary of the Storyline: This is Tate and Jameson’s story. I’m going to, again, be super vague in hopes of not ruining it. This continues where the second book left off. They have other obstacles to work through to find their happiness. There are some big reveals, some hot sexy times, and some sweet moments...and they get a HFN ending.

Point Of View (POV): This alternated between focusing on Tate and Jameson in 3rd person narrative.

Overall Pace of Story: Good. I never skimmed and I thought it flowed well.

Instalove: No, but strong feelings are already there when this begins.

H (Hero) rating: 3.5 stars. Jameson. I definitely liked him more than the h in this book! Yes, he sucked at communication also and there were definite times where I wanted to shake him �� but along with his inner thoughts and feelings made all that a little more tolerable for me.

h (heroine) rating: 2.5 stars. Tate. I struggled with her a lot in this book. I just wanted her to communicate! I hated how she always ran and how she still struggled with the idea that the H cared for her.

Sadness level: Low, no tissues needed

Push/Pull: Yes [spoilers removed]

Heat level: Hot. They have some hot tension, chemistry, and scenes -- but not so much it takes away from the story. [spoilers removed]
Descriptive sex: Yes

OW (Other Woman)/OM (Other Man) drama: Yes [spoilers removed]

Sex scene with OW or OM: No

Cheating: No

Separation: Yes [spoilers removed]

Possible Triggers: Yes [spoilers removed]

Closure: This had alright closure with what I would call a HFN ending. There is another book added to the series that I hadn’t read the first time, so I’m just not sure if it wasn’t out yet or I didn’t notice it. I definitely wanted more closure and a HEA and I’m kind of frustrated that I have to now go read a fourth book (novella), Completion, to get that potential HEA.

Safety: This one is probably Safe with exception for most safety gang readers depending on personal preferences
[spoilers removed]
]]> 17980013
Adam and I are both going through identity crises of epic proportions as we Transition from who we were, and discover who we were meant to be. More Fae are dying, and I feel as if time is running out for us to find all of those responsible and put an end to the killings.

The people I thought I could trust have betrayed me and the one person I should absolutely not trust is taking me deeper and deeper into his world.

Ryder’s secrets are dangerous and devastating.

With each touch and word, he pulls my heart closer to himself and at the same time he is trying to keep me at arm’s length. The dance he and I have begun, is getting more complicated as our worlds are being shaken from all sides, and the visions of the future are frightening, and nothing like I had ever pictured for myself or those I care for.

This time, destiny is taunting me.

I had always thought that I controlled my destiny. Now, my rights are being taken from me by powerful people and leaving me with alternatives that range between bad and awful.

This time, the choices I have to make can decide the fate of both worlds.

Everything is unraveling, and nothing will ever be the same again.]]> 455 Amelia Hutchins NMmomof4 0 maybe, duet-trilogy-or-series 4.30 2013
author: Amelia Hutchins
name: NMmomof4
average rating: 4.30
book published: 2013
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2020/10/21
shelves: maybe, duet-trilogy-or-series
review:

]]> 50265563
He knows my true self.
Our relationship is far from a game.
I've never felt this close to a man.

James Riviera is everything I never knew I wanted. Powerful, sexy, alluring, and completely mine.

Now he wants to make me his wife.

I only have to say yes and I'll have forever, but forever isn't as lasting as people believe.]]> 190 Lucia Franco NMmomof4 3 3 Stars

Overall Opinion: This was alright. It was a lot of sex and not much else. I still didn’t feel like I had the full closure I was hoping for but I would call it a HEA. It was a little too mushy for my liking too. I feel like a Debbie downer saying all this because I didn’t hate it �� I just didn’t love it either ]]> 3.79 2020
author: Lucia Franco
name: NMmomof4
average rating: 3.79
book published: 2020
rating: 3
read at: 2020/10/02
date added: 2020/10/02
shelves: 3-star, duet-trilogy-or-series, famous-wealthy-popular, unlikely-couple
review:
3 Stars

Overall Opinion: This was alright. It was a lot of sex and not much else. I still didn’t feel like I had the full closure I was hoping for but I would call it a HEA. It was a little too mushy for my liking too. I feel like a Debbie downer saying all this because I didn’t hate it �� I just didn’t love it either
]]> 54781547
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.]]> 452 Kate Stewart NMmomof4 4 4 Stars (?)

Overall Opinion: I liked this one better than the first book for sure! The pacing was still off though. It felt really slow to start up again and there were times where there was just too much inner dialogue that seemed repetitive and even unnecessary to the point that I even skimmed. Some of the angst seemed (again) drawn out even and unnecessary to the point that it felt like filler to get two books out of it. I’ll be the first to admit that I have come to hate duets just for the pacing alone! So this very well could be those feelings that are talking here. The ending also sucked! Things happened that I wanted to happen but why so little? With some adjustment in the pacing in other areas I think we could’ve given way more time for a solid HEA!! After investing so much into these characters I felt really disappointed that was it. I’m honestly torn on how to rate this. I did like it better than the first (which I gave 3.5 stars), and I was invested enough to ugly cry a few times and that tells me that it was done well enough for me to give 4 stars �� but I also feel like that rating might be generous because of my issues....]]> 4.51 2020
author: Kate Stewart
name: NMmomof4
average rating: 4.51
book published: 2020
rating: 4
read at: 2020/10/01
date added: 2020/10/01
shelves: 4-star, mob-bad-guy-h, separation-with-other-partners, unlikely-couple, tears, duet-trilogy-or-series
review:
4 Stars (?)

Overall Opinion: I liked this one better than the first book for sure! The pacing was still off though. It felt really slow to start up again and there were times where there was just too much inner dialogue that seemed repetitive and even unnecessary to the point that I even skimmed. Some of the angst seemed (again) drawn out even and unnecessary to the point that it felt like filler to get two books out of it. I’ll be the first to admit that I have come to hate duets just for the pacing alone! So this very well could be those feelings that are talking here. The ending also sucked! Things happened that I wanted to happen but why so little? With some adjustment in the pacing in other areas I think we could’ve given way more time for a solid HEA!! After investing so much into these characters I felt really disappointed that was it. I’m honestly torn on how to rate this. I did like it better than the first (which I gave 3.5 stars), and I was invested enough to ugly cry a few times and that tells me that it was done well enough for me to give 4 stars �� but I also feel like that rating might be generous because of my issues....
]]> 40748777 Can you keep a secret?

⁣I grew up sick.⁣⁣

Let me clarify.⁣⁣I grew up believing that real love stories include a martyr or demand great sacrifice to be worthy.⁣⁣ Because of that, I believed it, because I made myself believe it, and I bred the most masochistic of romantic hearts, which resulted in my illness.⁣⁣

When I lived this story, my own twisted fairy tale, it was unbeknownst to me at the time because I was young and naïve. I gave into temptation and fed the beating beast, which grew thirstier with every slash, every strike, every blow.⁣⁣ Triple Falls wasn’t at all what it seemed, nor were the men that swept me under their wing. But in order to keep them, I had to be in on their secrets.⁣⁣ Secrets that cost us everything to keep.

⁣⁣That’s the novelty of fiction versus reality. You can’t re-live your own love story, because by the time you’ve realized you’re living it, it’s over. At least that was the case for me and the men I trusted my foolish heart to.⁣⁣ Looking back, I’m convinced I willed my story into existence due to my illness.⁣⁣ And all were punished.]]> 354 Kate Stewart NMmomof4 4 3.5 Stars

Overall Opinion: This was a good start to the duet. It felt slow at first and some in between but I feel like that might just be the author stretching out to make it in to a duet instead of a standalone (or my dislike of duets showing ]]> 4.05 2020
author: Kate Stewart
name: NMmomof4
average rating: 4.05
book published: 2020
rating: 4
read at: 2020/09/30
date added: 2020/09/30
shelves: duet-trilogy-or-series, kindle-unlimited, 3-5-star, not-safe, safe-with-exception, suspense, workplace
review:
3.5 Stars

Overall Opinion: This was a good start to the duet. It felt slow at first and some in between but I feel like that might just be the author stretching out to make it in to a duet instead of a standalone (or my dislike of duets showing
]]> 50693967 Of the four, one in particular seems to be out to get me.
Caiden Cavendish.
Son of my estranged mother’s new husband.
My shadow. My nightmare.

My dad’s death was an accident... Lie.
My life isn’t in danger... Lie.
The Four won’t bring mayhem to my life... Lie.
I don’t want Caiden Cavendish... Lie.
Lies.
Lies.
Lies.

Eeny, meeny, miny, mo.
The Four are coming for you, Snow.

Note: This book is not a standalone, and may contain triggers for some readers. Please view the content warnings page on the author's website for details.]]> 312 Becca Steele NMmomof4 0 3.99 2020
author: Becca Steele
name: NMmomof4
average rating: 3.99
book published: 2020
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2020/09/24
shelves: maybe, duet-trilogy-or-series, kindle-unlimited
review:

]]> 22267191
Tired of thinking about her worthless ex-boyfriend and the humiliating way in which they parted, Martha Bigalow goes on a hike hoping the dramatic hills of the English Lake District will help her to forget. But as she crosses an ancient set of stepping stones, she slips and falls into an angry river.

Time Travel. Sideways.

She wakes in cave, wearing nothing but her dodgy, mismatched underwear. Her only company is the man who saved her life: a tall, dark, and disturbingly attractive stranger named Vadim. Too bad he's a medieval re-enactor gone feral. Or so she assumes.

Crazy dream or not, it soon becomes clear that when she fell into the river she left the twenty-first century far behind... and medieval Erde is nothing like home.

Now, all that stands between her and almost certain death is the crazy man with the sword. And then he offers her his protection... with the role of his "wife."

Vadim is a wanted man. An outlaw.

The last thing he needs are any complications of the female kind, but then he happens upon a strangely attired woman lying beside the river...

Martha is bold, outspoken, and altogether irreverent, and every instinct he has warns him to abandon her... only he cannot. Her allure is already much too strong. Against his better judgement, despite all the risks, Vadim offers to help Martha find her way home.

Until then, Martha must adapt to medieval society, steer clear of the Evil Earl and his minions, and maybe—just maybe—learn how to trust her heart again.]]> 401 N.J. Layouni NMmomof4 0 3.98 2014
author: N.J. Layouni
name: NMmomof4
average rating: 3.98
book published: 2014
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2020/09/23
shelves: maybe, duet-trilogy-or-series, freebie-or-loan
review:

]]> 44594689
Blindfolded.
Bound.
Destination unknown.

I was told to stay silent and abide by their rules. But they didn’t realize I wasn’t a victim…not anymore.

The open sea was my backdrop for nine torturous days. During that time, glimmers of my fate were revealed by a man with the mysterious chartreuse-colored eyes. He should have scared me, but he didn’t.

He intrigued me. And I intrigued him.

He punished me when I didn’t listen, which was every single day. But beneath his cruelty, I sensed he was guarding a grave secret.

I was sold.
And in a game of poker, no less.

My buyer? A Russian mobster who likes to collect pretty things. Now that I know the truth, I only have one choice.

Sink or swim.

And when one fateful night presents me the opportunity, I take it. I just never anticipated my actions would leave me shipwrecked with my kidnapper.

He needs me alive. I want him dead.

But as days turn into weeks, one thing becomes clear—I should hate him…but I don’t.

My name is Willow.
His name is Saint.

Ironic, isn’t it? He bears a name that denotes nothing but holiness yet delivers nothing but hell. However, if this is hell on earth…God, save my soul.]]> 267 Monica James NMmomof4 0 maybe, duet-trilogy-or-series 3.82 2019
author: Monica James
name: NMmomof4
average rating: 3.82
book published: 2019
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2020/09/15
shelves: maybe, duet-trilogy-or-series
review:

]]> 53912837
I was feared.
Respected.
Worshiped.

But all of that changed when the impossible happened—I fell in love. Only those feelings weren’t reciprocated, because who could love a monster like me?

My empire crumbled. People died. I went from being a victorious leader to lurking in the shadows, planning revenge on my half-brother who now reigns in my place.

An orphanage is where I find sanctuary, but when she walks into my world and evokes a yearning I thought long dead, my demons are awakened and want what they can’t have—her. Sooner or later, I knew I’d need to feed the darkness inside me.

Mayhem, power, and control course through my veins. I will use them to regain my crown, my throne, and then claim her, despite what solemn vows she might’ve made.

I will break them…and her.]]> 415 Monica James NMmomof4 0 maybe, duet-trilogy-or-series 4.13 2020
author: Monica James
name: NMmomof4
average rating: 4.13
book published: 2020
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2020/09/15
shelves: maybe, duet-trilogy-or-series
review:

]]> 16148137 Caroline Wilson is trapped in a cold and loveless marriage with an older man. When her husband finally wins a long sought-after promotion, Caroline feels she has little choice but to follow him to a new home in San Diego. There she meets Sebastian, a young man of 17.
For an all too brief summer, their happiness blooms.
But external pressures begin to bear down, not least from the overbearing David, and Sebastian’s parents begin to suspect that their son has a secret. Even Caroline’s new friend, Donna, realises that dark passions exist below the serene surface.]]> 386 Jane Harvey-Berrick NMmomof4 0 4 Stars (Originally Read 11/1/2014)

DNF (Re-Read 9/11/2020)

Re-Read Note: I tried this again and got to about 20% and decided to call it quits.

It was instalove for both characters that seemed out of nowhere. It also had the h pushing away and saying the same thing over and over while giving mixed signals to the H. I even skimmed to two later parts in the book and it seemed like it was the same discussion both times!

I decided to stop now so I don’t completely tarnish my memory of really enjoying these the first time.]]> 3.88 2012
author: Jane Harvey-Berrick
name: NMmomof4
average rating: 3.88
book published: 2012
rating: 0
read at: 2020/09/11
date added: 2020/09/13
shelves: taboo, unlikely-couple, captivity, cheating, not-safe, duet-trilogy-or-series, re-read
review:
4 Stars (Originally Read 11/1/2014)

DNF (Re-Read 9/11/2020)

Re-Read Note: I tried this again and got to about 20% and decided to call it quits.

It was instalove for both characters that seemed out of nowhere. It also had the h pushing away and saying the same thing over and over while giving mixed signals to the H. I even skimmed to two later parts in the book and it seemed like it was the same discussion both times!

I decided to stop now so I don’t completely tarnish my memory of really enjoying these the first time.
]]> 44148676 And with pain comes scars.

Believe me, I have had my share of it all.
After my mother’s death, my father couldn’t deal.
So once again, we’re moving.
To a town full of lies, darkness, and corruption.
All masked in sunshine and money.

But then I meet him��
My biggest mistake.
My biggest temptation.
A royal pain-in-the-ass.

And Darrian King is no prince.
He’s controlling, aggressive, and downright wrong for me.
But what he dishes out,
I give right back.
After all, love hurts.
And so do we.






]]> 247 A.M. Brooks NMmomof4 0 maybe, duet-trilogy-or-series 3.61 2019
author: A.M. Brooks
name: NMmomof4
average rating: 3.61
book published: 2019
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2020/08/25
shelves: maybe, duet-trilogy-or-series
review:

]]> 45725799
Duet Synopsis:
Ava Diaz needs saving.
She just doesn’t know it yet.
Just like she doesn’t know a thing about the boy she sits next to on the first day of senior year.
He thinks she’s a brat.
She thinks he’s entitled.
Maybe first impressions don’t always last��
Because Connor Ledger’s about to save her.
He just doesn’t know why.

Blurb for First and Forever coming soon]]> 390 Jay McLean 192279628X NMmomof4 3 3 Stars

Overall Duet Rating: 3.5 Stars

Overall Opinion: This was a good conclusion to the duet, but I didn’t like it as much as the first book. I did feel like it was a rollercoaster of sometimes unnecessary relationship drama and that it had a few times where I wanted to shake both mcs to get them to communicate better! The h rubbed me the wrong way a few times, and the ending was not nearly enough after investing 2 whole books to this couple. Overall, the duet was enjoyable and I think the H (especially his relationship with the h’s mom) and the overall uniqueness of the storyline made up for my gripes. With a 4 star rating for Heartache and Hope and 3 stars for this one, I give the duet an overall rating of 3.5 stars.

Brief Summary of the Storyline: This is Ava and Connor’s story. It takes off right where the first book leaves us and they are trying to navigate their relationship as well as all the obstacles life has thrown at them. There is some family drama, some misunderstandings and poor communication, and a few sexy times...and they get a HFN ending.

Point Of View (POV): This alternated between Ava and Connor’s POV.

Overall Pace of Story: Good. I never skimmed and I thought it flowed well.

Instalove: No, but they are already in love when this book starts.

H (Hero) rating: 4 stars. Connor. I still liked him but maybe not as much as the first book.

h (heroine) rating: 3.5 stars. Ava. I liked her, but I did get a little frustrated with her communication skills.

Sadness level: Moderate. I teared up a few times but never needed any tissues.

Push/Pull: Yes [spoilers removed]

Heat level: Good. They have some good tension, chemistry, and scenes -- but not so much it takes away from the story.

Descriptive sex: Yes

OW (Other Woman)/OM (Other Man) drama: Yes [spoilers removed]

Sex scene with OW or OM: No

Cheating: No

Separation: Yes [spoilers removed]

Possible Triggers: Yes [spoilers removed]

Closure: This ended kind of abruptly with what I would call a HFN ending. I know others might be just fine with the ending but I wanted more! I wanted [spoilers removed]]]> 4.28 2019
author: Jay McLean
name: NMmomof4
average rating: 4.28
book published: 2019
rating: 3
read at: 2020/08/22
date added: 2020/08/23
shelves: 3-star, athlete, college, duet-trilogy-or-series, hs, kindle-unlimited, neighbors-live-with, safe, separation-without-other-partners
review:
3 Stars

Overall Duet Rating: 3.5 Stars

Overall Opinion: This was a good conclusion to the duet, but I didn’t like it as much as the first book. I did feel like it was a rollercoaster of sometimes unnecessary relationship drama and that it had a few times where I wanted to shake both mcs to get them to communicate better! The h rubbed me the wrong way a few times, and the ending was not nearly enough after investing 2 whole books to this couple. Overall, the duet was enjoyable and I think the H (especially his relationship with the h’s mom) and the overall uniqueness of the storyline made up for my gripes. With a 4 star rating for Heartache and Hope and 3 stars for this one, I give the duet an overall rating of 3.5 stars.

Brief Summary of the Storyline: This is Ava and Connor’s story. It takes off right where the first book leaves us and they are trying to navigate their relationship as well as all the obstacles life has thrown at them. There is some family drama, some misunderstandings and poor communication, and a few sexy times...and they get a HFN ending.

Point Of View (POV): This alternated between Ava and Connor’s POV.

Overall Pace of Story: Good. I never skimmed and I thought it flowed well.

Instalove: No, but they are already in love when this book starts.

H (Hero) rating: 4 stars. Connor. I still liked him but maybe not as much as the first book.

h (heroine) rating: 3.5 stars. Ava. I liked her, but I did get a little frustrated with her communication skills.

Sadness level: Moderate. I teared up a few times but never needed any tissues.

Push/Pull: Yes [spoilers removed]

Heat level: Good. They have some good tension, chemistry, and scenes -- but not so much it takes away from the story.

Descriptive sex: Yes

OW (Other Woman)/OM (Other Man) drama: Yes [spoilers removed]

Sex scene with OW or OM: No

Cheating: No

Separation: Yes [spoilers removed]

Possible Triggers: Yes [spoilers removed]

Closure: This ended kind of abruptly with what I would call a HFN ending. I know others might be just fine with the ending but I wanted more! I wanted [spoilers removed]
]]> 45457966 She just doesn’t know it yet.
Just like she doesn’t know a thing about the boy she sits next to on the first day of senior year.
He thinks she’s a brat.
She thinks he’s entitled.
Maybe first impressions don’t always last��
Because Connor Ledger’s about to save her.
He just doesn’t know why.]]> 324 Jay McLean 1922796271 NMmomof4 4 4 Stars

Overall Opinion: I liked this! It got my feels going for these character’s messy life situations. I liked both characters apart as well as their connection together. I’m hoping that the second book wraps things up in a good way...especially because I’ve realized that I’ve established a dislike for duets and trilogies because usually the pacing is all wrong for what seems like an attempt at just stretching out the story to multiple books instead of one. So fingers crossed! On to the next ]]> 4.10 2019
author: Jay McLean
name: NMmomof4
average rating: 4.10
book published: 2019
rating: 4
read at: 2020/08/22
date added: 2020/08/22
shelves: duet-trilogy-or-series, 4-star, athlete, friends-to-lovers, hs, kindle-unlimited, neighbors-live-with, safe
review:
4 Stars

Overall Opinion: I liked this! It got my feels going for these character’s messy life situations. I liked both characters apart as well as their connection together. I’m hoping that the second book wraps things up in a good way...especially because I’ve realized that I’ve established a dislike for duets and trilogies because usually the pacing is all wrong for what seems like an attempt at just stretching out the story to multiple books instead of one. So fingers crossed! On to the next
]]>