Amanda's bookshelf: arcs en-US Thu, 08 May 2025 10:56:13 -0700 60 Amanda's bookshelf: arcs 144 41 /images/layout/goodreads_logo_144.jpg <![CDATA[Undercover (Vino & Veritas, #4)]]> 56569041 Gabe wants Alec between the sheets…too bad Alec’s undercover already�

Rich kid. Party boy. Gabe is tired of the labels. He’s a smart guy, but ever since he got kicked out of grad school, people are only interested in his no-limit credit card and his pierced ears…and other places.

Tall, dark and scowling Alec hates Vermont, with its artisanal-freaking-everything and its irritating people. To be fair, most people irritate Alec, including the FBI director who sent him here to investigate a smuggling scheme involving yoga mats.

When one of the cutest twinks Alec’s ever seen takes an interest, Alec knows there’s an ulterior motive. No one with multi-colored hair, piercings, and an ass like that would want boring, serious Alec. The kid must be up to no good. Either way, Alec ’t blow his cover. If only he could keep his hands off of Gabe long enough to find out what he’s up to�

Can they ignore their explosive chemistry long enough to foil a smuggling ring? Or will their budding relationship sink faster than a yacht full of contraband?
]]> 200 Eliot Grayson Amanda 4 3.76 2021 Undercover (Vino & Veritas, #4)
author: Eliot Grayson
name: Amanda
average rating: 3.76
book published: 2021
rating: 4
read at: 2025/05/08
date added: 2025/05/08
shelves: arcs, contemporary, favorite-authors, m-m, manties, military, mm-romance, multi-author-series, opposites-attract, released-in-2021, romance, standalone, suspense, uno-2020, wheel23
review:
My first book in this new shared world, but definitely not my last! Eliot delivered as she always does with humor and snark, but also a great plot like and a wonderful romance. I really don’t think anyone does the grumpy one and the sunshine one quite like Grayson and I just adored the MCs this time around. The steam is slow to build, which absolutely makes sense with the storyline, but once it’s there it’s definitely fire. There’s a sense of “oh no, when’s it going to go wrong� but luckily Grayson saves the day and delivers a very satisfying HEA by the end.
]]> <![CDATA[An Echo in the Sorrow (Soulbound, #6)]]> 56394746 Forgiveness is a hollow prayer you only hear in your dreams.

Patrick Collins has spent years handling cases as a special agent for the Supernatural Operations Agency, even as his secret standing in the preternatural community has changed. He should have confessed to his role as co-leader of the New York City god pack when he and Jonothon de Vere took up the mantle months ago, but he didn’t. Now that split loyalty will cost him at a time when he can least afford it.

Outmaneuvered, framed for murder, and targeted by the Dominion Sect, Patrick has to face a past full of lies to regain his freedom. Revealing the truth means he’ll need to give up the life that has defined him. Everything he’s fought to build with his pack is at stake, and losing them isn’t a price Patrick is willing to pay, but some choices aren’t his to make.

Jono knows they ’t cede any more territory if they want to win the god pack civil war spilling into the streets of New York City. But the souls of werecreatures are free for the taking when demons come to town and angels sing a warning no one can ignore. When Jono’s worst fear comes to life, and he loses the one person he ’t live without, the only option left is to fight.

Facing down the demons of their past and the ones in their present, Patrick and Jono will learn the hard way that some sins never wash away clean.]]> 410 Hailey Turner Amanda 5 "Love was the only alter Jono would ever worship at from here on out, and Patrick would be the only one to hear his prayers."

Set aside your need for sleep, this is one book you wont be able to put down. From page one it is nonstop action, and the war we've seen building is finally coming to a head. So many twists and turns, so many heartstopping scenes. I honestly don't understand how Turner can keep coming up with these stories that are beyond amazing. Patrick and Jono have my heart (and Wade, obviously), and while it hurt for them so many times throughout this book, I wouldn't want it any other way. Pack bonds are growing tighter, new alliances are being forged and old ones are growing stronger. Everything is ramping up in such a way that the last book is sure to be a showstopper. I'm trying to keep this completely spoiler free, but just know that you're getting so much out of this book. You'll hurt, you'll love, you will want to curse gods more than even Patrick can. Everything about this book is amazing, and while an ending is going to be bittersweet, I can't wait to see where Turner takes us.]]> 4.55 2021 An Echo in the Sorrow (Soulbound, #6)
author: Hailey Turner
name: Amanda
average rating: 4.55
book published: 2021
rating: 5
read at: 2025/02/15
date added: 2025/02/15
shelves: arcs, favorite-series, favorite-authors, established-couple, dragons, injury, 2021-favorites, angels, cops, exciting, fantasy-paranormal, found-family, m-m, magic-witches-wizards, military, released-in-2021, romance, series, shifters, suspense, war, wheel2022, uno2025
review:
"Love was the only alter Jono would ever worship at from here on out, and Patrick would be the only one to hear his prayers."

Set aside your need for sleep, this is one book you wont be able to put down. From page one it is nonstop action, and the war we've seen building is finally coming to a head. So many twists and turns, so many heartstopping scenes. I honestly don't understand how Turner can keep coming up with these stories that are beyond amazing. Patrick and Jono have my heart (and Wade, obviously), and while it hurt for them so many times throughout this book, I wouldn't want it any other way. Pack bonds are growing tighter, new alliances are being forged and old ones are growing stronger. Everything is ramping up in such a way that the last book is sure to be a showstopper. I'm trying to keep this completely spoiler free, but just know that you're getting so much out of this book. You'll hurt, you'll love, you will want to curse gods more than even Patrick can. Everything about this book is amazing, and while an ending is going to be bittersweet, I can't wait to see where Turner takes us.
]]> <![CDATA[His Fairy Share (Starfig Investigations, #3)]]> 49585381 “Why does this always happen to us?�
Quinn Broomsparkle, wizard extraordinaire

Six months have passed since wizard Quinn Broomsparkle left behind his indentured servant shackles. He’s in love with his half-dragon/half-fairy familiar, Twig Starfig. He’s got a home. Friends. A job. And a father-in-law he could do without. A pretty close to perfect life. But as Quinn has learned the hard way, things rarely stay peaceful for long. Especially when a Starfig’s involved.

Summoned to his home realm and a past he’d thought left behind, Quinn and Twig find themselves in the middle of evil machinations . . . with no clear enemy. When Quinn’s younger brother, Zak, goes missing, it’s Starfig Investigations on the case.

Being the first wizard in a thousand years isn’t all it’s cracked up to be. On top of a missing brother, a broken-hearted red fury, an archivist with a secret, and a ghost pirate-parrot who’s determined to return to his captain, Quinn and Twig’s relationship is sorely tested when questions—and unhappy answers—about their mating dilemma are pushed to the fore.

All Quinn wants is his fairy share of happiness. Is that so much to ask?]]> 416 Meghan Maslow Amanda 4 4.47 2020 His Fairy Share (Starfig Investigations, #3)
author: Meghan Maslow
name: Amanda
average rating: 4.47
book published: 2020
rating: 4
read at: 2025/02/10
date added: 2025/02/13
shelves: arcs, dragons, established-couple, fantasy-paranormal, fated-mates, funny, m-m, magic-witches-wizards, series, shifters, war, z-letter-q, uno2025
review:
3.5 stars! Another wonderful addition to the series. This had the same humor we’ve seen previously, but since it’s told entirely from Quinn’s prospective, I feel like we also got more of a serious and emotional side as well. The action felt pretty much nonstop, which had me not wanting to put the book down for anything! I liked that we got to learn more about Quinn and his past before going to the Elder, and I loved how Twig was a constant pillar of love and support for him the entire time. This series is extremely fun and I look forward to anymore!
]]> <![CDATA[Deven and the Dragon (Beautiful Beasts, #2)]]> 54165171 The beast doesn’t ever really get a fairytale ending…does he?

Deven’s mission is clear. All he has to do is convince the dragon to give up one of his magical scales. Lies, deception, seduction—nothing is off-limits. It should be easy. But it isn’t. Especially not when said dragon is so alluring in human form. It’s not long before Deven starts to want something way more valuable than a scale from his beautiful beast. But how do you convince a dragon to give you his heart when your entire relationship was built on deceit?

Fiora is cursed. Love can kill him. Literally kill him. So keeping his mind (and hands) off the devilishly handsome Deven shouldn’t be a challenge. But it is. Deven’s entirely too warm, too attractive, too…everything to resist. And spending time with the lovable human makes Fiora question what’s more frightening—the curse, or the possibility of a life without Deven by his side.

If they want a shot at happily ever after, Deven and Fiora will need to break the potentially deadly curse and overcome all the secrets that stand between them. Easy, right?

They wish...

This book is an explicit M/M romance with an absurd cloak worn during the summer, a dragon who hoards—well, it isn’t gold, and some extremely angry parents who can breathe fire.]]> 261 Eliot Grayson Amanda 5 4.04 2020 Deven and the Dragon (Beautiful Beasts, #2)
author: Eliot Grayson
name: Amanda
average rating: 4.04
book published: 2020
rating: 5
read at: 2025/01/19
date added: 2025/01/19
shelves: arcs, awkward-mc, dragons, fantasy-paranormal, favorite-authors, friends-to-lovers, hurt-comfort, illness, m-m, opposites-attract, retelling, shifters, standalone, 2020-favorites
review:
I pretty much loved everything about this book. It was at times absolutely hilarious, while at others a little heartbreaking. The characters were absolutely amazing, a petite, dramatic, self-conscious dragon and the large, outgoing, town playboy don’t seem like they’d make the best match, but they were amazing together. There were times I definitely wanted to swat both of Fiora and Deven and make them reveal their secrets, but it all worked out, and couldn’t have made for a better HEA. If you’ve ever wondered what Beauty and The Beast would be like if the beast were a small blue skinned dragon, and the beauty was a strapping flirty man, look no further. This book was pretty close to perfection.
]]> <![CDATA[After Felix (Close Proximity, #3)]]> 54739751
When Felix met handsome journalist Max Travers, it was lust at first sight. It was just his luck that he then had to develop a terrible case of feelings and got his heart broken. However, two years later, he’s over all of that. His job is going well, he has good friends, and he doesn’t lack for male company. Which, of course, is when Max has to come bursting back into his life.

Felix Jackson will always be the one who got away to Max. He’s spent two years regretting his actions and hoping for a second chance. When an accident lands him in Felix’s less than tender care, Max is determined to grab this opportunity. The only problem is that Felix is equally determined that he doesn’t.

From bestselling author, Lily Morton comes a story of missed opportunities, second chances, and two very stubborn men.

This is the third book in the Close Proximity series, but it can be read as a standalone.]]> 266 Lily Morton Amanda 5
I just reread this, and honestly when you know what's coming it might be even worse lol. I love these two together, but oooh boy is their relationship hardwon. Luckily, I love a good amount of angst and grovel so this is one of Lily's best for me.]]> 4.32 2020 After Felix (Close Proximity, #3)
author: Lily Morton
name: Amanda
average rating: 4.32
book published: 2020
rating: 5
read at: 2025/01/15
date added: 2025/01/15
shelves: arcs, contemporary, favorite-authors, favorite-series, funny, m-m, second-chance, series, standalone, sweet, you-sound-like-youre-from-london, wheel2022
review:
4.5 stars! I always have trouble reviewing Lily’s books because they’re all just so equally lovely and I’m just so enamored when reading them that I know I won’t be able to do them any justice. This one had a lot more pining and sadness woven throughout, but it was still equally filled with the snark and humor that I’ve grown to expect and love. I felt like I was one of the MCs as I was absolutely pining for their relationship and wanting the happy ending. The beginning was rough, as if you’ve read the series you knew that something was going to go wrong, but I still couldn’t help but hope that I was somehow wrong. It made the second half more worth it though, as Max needed to realize what he had and what he wanted to truly be the man Felix needed. And once they both came around? Well then it was just beautiful.

I just reread this, and honestly when you know what's coming it might be even worse lol. I love these two together, but oooh boy is their relationship hardwon. Luckily, I love a good amount of angst and grovel so this is one of Lily's best for me.
]]> <![CDATA[Love Him Desperate (On the Market, #5)]]> 55042229
Just like most people, Dmitri wants love, but he’s not quite sure he’ll ever find it. His sexuality is confusing on a good day, and the one person he wants is the one person who can never know how he feels. Raphael is his uncle’s friend, he’s almost twenty years older, and he’s far too good for Dmitri to ever deserve him. Dmitri will suffer through his unrequited love, though, if it means keeping Raphael in his life. And yes, the pain of watching Raphael fall for someone else someday might just kill him, but knowing he’s happy will be worth it.

Raphael Meyer’s entire life was lived in spite of many things.

He walked in spite of the doctors telling his mother that he never would. He loved in spite of past heartbreak. He fell for Dmitri in spite of knowing he’s the one man Raphael can never have. But as their friendship grows, it gets harder and harder to resist Dmitri, with his unfailing strength and his ability to see the best in people. Raphael knows Dmitri deserves the truth about how he feels, but the fear of losing him is too strong, and he’s not willing to risk a lifetime of friendship for something so fleeting as falling in love.

It’s the makings of star-crossed lovers. Dmitri and Raphael want each other—desperately, impossibly, and forever, but neither of them are sure that will ever be enough. Will the universe give them a way forward, or will they spend the rest of their lives in tortured silence?

Love Him Desperate is the fifth and final book of On the Market. It contains no cheating and has an HEA.]]> 312 E.M. Lindsey Amanda 5 4.09 2020 Love Him Desperate (On the Market, #5)
author: E.M. Lindsey
name: Amanda
average rating: 4.09
book published: 2020
rating: 5
read at: 2022/09/12
date added: 2025/01/12
shelves: ace-mc, age-gap, angst, arcs, contemporary, favorite-series, found-family, friends-to-lovers, hurt-comfort, m-m, opposites-attract, series, small-town, standalone, sweet, pirates-2021, z-letter-e, z-letter-o
review:
I am SO not ready for this series to be done, but what a book to go out on. I think I’ve finally nailed down what I love so much about how Lindsey has written this series. It’s slightly melancholy at times, there’s a lot of rough edges (not in the writing itself but the rough edges of life affect the characters), it’s real and it’s gritty; but through it all there’s such a strong sense of hope that you can always feel in the way Lindsey writes. Dimitri and Raphael didn’t get together as quickly as some others in this series, but that wouldn’t have worked for them. They each had their own demons to fight, and it had to be done on their own, which made it all the sweeter when they finally turned to each other. I will truly miss Cherry Creek and all its residents, and know this a series I will revisit in the future.
]]> <![CDATA[Love Him Steady (On the Market, #4)]]> 54627753
And then he meets a stranger sitting on a park bench, looking like the world had just kicked him in the gut.

Lorenzo Moretti had spent the better part of his years living off the success of his rich siblings. His life was shallow, with no purpose, because Lorenzo had never believed he deserved more than that. Then, his brother, Rocco, finds bliss in the arms of a humble baker, and Lorenzo can no longer ignore the pain of longing in his chest. He wants something like that. He needs it. And he’s prepared to earn it. He just has no idea how hard Cherry Creek will make him work for it, in the end. But at the sight of Wilder’s dark eyes, and the kind words urging him to give the town a chance, Lorenzo chooses not to run back home to the quiet and familiar. It won’t be easy, but maybe it’ll be worth it.

Love Him Steady is the fourth book in the series On The Market. It contains no cheating, and has a Happily Ever After.


The series, On The Market, has become Running in Circles, and this novel was retitled State of Mind. It has been completely revamped and re-written with names, places, characters, and major plot points changed.]]> 286 E.M. Lindsey Amanda 4 4.17 2020 Love Him Steady (On the Market, #4)
author: E.M. Lindsey
name: Amanda
average rating: 4.17
book published: 2020
rating: 4
read at: 2020/07/31
date added: 2025/01/12
shelves: arcs, contemporary, favorite-authors, favorite-series, found-family, friends-to-lovers, hurt-comfort, m-m, series, slow-burn, small-town, standalone, sweet, z-letter-e, z-letter-o
review:
Every time I start a Lindsey book I’m ready to be hit with an emotional punch. This one was no exception and from the beginning my heart absolutely broke for Wilder and definitely hurt for Lorenzo. This story was so much more than a romance. It was a story of growth, of taking back what was taken away from you. A story of figuring out how to just be, something that seems so simple, but this story showed that no matter who you are or where you come from, it’s often one of the most difficult things to do. I loved the romance too, as it was slow, and it was deep, and there was a friendship on top of that love that made it satisfying and true. I also greatly appreciated that it even the people of Cherry Creek were telling Lorenzo that he couldn’t just expect love or purpose just because he was in Cherry Creek. These stories make the town seem idyllic, but it’s nice that the characters are able to bring it back down to earth. I absolutely adored getting to see more Dmitri and to meet Raphael and ’t wait for there story next.
]]> <![CDATA[Love Him Wild (On the Market, #3)]]> 54245776
Then Jonas Woods came to town.

Jonas had lived under the heavy, pressing, cruel thumb of his father for most of his life. In spite of that, Jonas grew up kind, and it crushed him every time he was forced to enter a small town, knowing the havoc his father’s company will wreak when he’s done with his million-dollar condos and corporate shops putting all the locals out of business. Jonas does what he can to soften the blow, but his power only extends so far. Still, he’s determined to save Cherry Creek, and his resolve is only strengthened when he meets the town’s reluctant but sweet Park Ranger who isn’t sure what to make of the young man claiming that he wants to help instead of ruin.

Parker is captivated by just how quickly Ronan falls under the younger man’s spell. Instinct tells him to protect what’s his, but his heart is telling him there might be room for one more person in their lives. Jonas is determined not to be a homewrecker, and Ronan is determined to guard the integrity of his marriage, but Parker thinks their happily ever after isn’t quite as finished as he once thought.

Jonas� trauma keeps him reluctant to believe he’s wanted, but once Ronan is on board, Parker is certain they can convince him that their love is worth the risk. The only question is, will that quiet, reserved man finally let Parker and Ronan love him absolutely wild?

Love Him Wild is the third book of On The Market. It contains no cheating, and has a Happily Ever After]]> 321 E.M. Lindsey Amanda 5 4.11 2020 Love Him Wild (On the Market, #3)
author: E.M. Lindsey
name: Amanda
average rating: 4.11
book published: 2020
rating: 5
read at: 2024/10/08
date added: 2025/01/12
shelves: age-gap, arcs, awkward-mc, contemporary, established-couple, favorite-authors, favorite-series, fluffy, found-family, hurt-comfort, instalove, m-m, mmm, series, slow-burn, small-town, standalone, sweet, owned-kindle, uno-2020, z-letter-e, z-letter-o
review:
We finally got Ronan’s and Parker’s story and the addition of Jonas to their relationship worked perfectly. The first couple chapters gave us a look into their past, the fallout from the fire, and them reuniting, and it was everything I hoped for. Then we got the present, when Jonas enters the picture and he just fits so well. Even with 2/3 of the relationship already being formed, this really read as a slow burn. There was a constant simmering heat and background want and need that kept me turning pages for the next time all three would be together. I think this might have been Lindsey’s most imagery filled work too, and it was a beautiful read.
]]> <![CDATA[Love Him Breathless (On the Market, #2)]]> 53446507
Literally.

As the older twin with absent parents and a chip on his shoulder, Antoine and his brother grew up nomadic—the inconvenient offspring of traveling teachers who wanted nothing more than to spend their lives seeing the world. While his friends were dreaming of road trips, Antoine was dreaming of a home to call his own. Retreating into his consulting career, Antoine dedicates his life to stabilizing small town economies, and doesn’t hesitate to take a job in Cherry Creek—a town that makes it very clear it doesn’t want Antoine there. Before he even crosses the city limits, Antoine is run off the road by a wild goat, and he’s forced to accept a rescue by a wary man who makes it very clear that Antoine’s presence in Cherry Creek is not welcome.

And what’s worse, the ridiculously attractive, absolutely infuriating Fire Chief seems to be at the center of every single one of his disasters that happens after—and unfortunately there are many. All Antoine wants is to do his job and go home, but Cherry Creek seems to have it in for him, and Edmund Fitzgerald seems thrilled to watch him fall apart. It might be real hatred, or it might just be pigtail pulling, but Antoine isn’t sure which, and he’s not really sure he wants to know. After all, a place like Cherry Creek will never be his home.

Fitz has never found someone worth fighting for, and Antoine has never found a reason to stay, but they know that looking at each other leaves them absolutely breathless. Will that be enough to make a relationship work, or will they decide that their love isn’t worth the fight?

Love Him Breathless is the second book in the series On The Market. It contains no cheating and a happily ever after.

The series, On The Market, has become Running in Circles, and this novel was retitled Light My Fire. It has been completely revamped and re-written with names, places, characters, and major plot points changed.]]> 292 E.M. Lindsey Amanda 5 3.99 2020 Love Him Breathless (On the Market, #2)
author: E.M. Lindsey
name: Amanda
average rating: 3.99
book published: 2020
rating: 5
read at: 2021/07/18
date added: 2025/01/12
shelves: 2020-favorites, arcs, contemporary, enemies-to-lovers, favorite-authors, favorite-series, fluffy, found-family, funny, m-m, series, small-town, standalone, z-letter-e, z-letter-o
review:
Ahhh so much love for this one! This series is shaping up to be one of my absolute favorites. Since Marcel’s book was one of my favorite stories Lindsey has ever written, I was a little worried that Antoine wouldn’t be able to redeem himself, but oh boy was I wrong. Right from the get go he acknowledges that it’s his own issues that caused all the tension between the two and so I was able to embrace him with a clean slate. And then he went to Cherry Creek and the small town magic happened. I’ve said it before, but it takes a lot for me to like an enemies to lovers story, I just don’t usually find them believable. But it so worked here. Even as they were falling for each other, they weren’t sugary sweet with each other, and I loved them for it that much more. Fitz was a stand out in the previous book in the series, so I knew I’d like his story, but I absolutely loved the way it was done. 10/10 would recommend!
]]> <![CDATA[A Dashwood of Sense And Sensibility (Love, Austen, #6)]]> 59664711 Two Dashwood brothers. Two dashing romances.

Sensible, reasonable, responsible.

Noah Dashwood is the practical type. Now the beloved family home’s been sold to settle their father’s debts, Noah’s number one priority is finding a new place to live for himself and his brother. But the old house’s last gift to him is completely unexpected: Wade Ferrars, literally walking over broken glass to shake his hand, sexy and lovely and everything a guy could dream of. He even makes Noah . . . believe in romance.
Except . . .
Why so hot and cold?
What is he hiding?


Idealistic, energetic, spontaneous.

Oh God. Disaster. No money, no home, no man . . . Zach Dashwood should really, like, get a steady paying job. Help his brother out. Ohhh, maybe Ask Austen Studios has room for a talented musician? Maybe he should just nip in there . . .
This guy with terrible tie-taste is really something. Working on a Sunday, poor thing. Okay, they should hang out, maybe he’ll put in a good word with the boss�
Oh, he is the boss.
The clever, funny, decent, well-earning, sexy boss.
Well that’s . . .
Why has this guy not been snapped up yet? New mission!


Two very different brothers. Both in for a surprise.

A modern, gay retelling of Jane Austen's Sense and Sensibility.]]> 296 Anyta Sunday Amanda 4 4.02 2021 A Dashwood of Sense And Sensibility (Love, Austen, #6)
author: Anyta Sunday
name: Amanda
average rating: 4.02
book published: 2021
rating: 4
read at: 2021/12/05
date added: 2024/12/20
shelves: arcs, awkward-mc, boss-employee, contemporary, favorite-authors, favorite-series, fluffy, friends-to-lovers, instalove, m-m, mm-romance, opposites-attract, released-in-2021, romance, series, slow-burn, standalone, sweet, blue-cover, z-letter-z
review:
The only good thing about this being the last of the series is that I won't be sacrificing anymore sleep when I am completely incapable of putting the book down! Like the other books in the series this one was fun, not one but two great love stories, huge feelings, and just so heartwarming I dare you to read it and not smile throughout. I loved how both brothers were so entirely different, but going on the same journey to find they're happy ever after. Sunday has definitely worked her way onto my "favorite series" shelf with this series, and once again I am looking forward to whatever she decides to write next.
]]> <![CDATA[Finley Embraces Heart & Home (Love, Austen, #4)]]> 58787698 MUM is the love of his life.
Until he meets his STEP-BROTHER.

For years it’s been just Finley and Mum. Now she’s getting married, and they’re moving into a flash mansion and his step-dad is lording it over him. He’s clearly a homophobe, and doesn’t want him rubbing off (so to speak) on his son.

Like that would ever happen. No way he’d ever go for someone who shares his DNA.

Even if Ethan and his dad don’t look anything alike.

Even if Ethan and his dad don’t act anything alike.

Even if . . .

This ’t happen. They’re whānau now, family, there are boundaries.

Secret. Forbidden. Irresistible.
A reimagining of Jane Austen’s Mansfield Park.

***

TAGS:
Heart-throbbing slow burn, a bit of pretty prose, Ethan is his step-brother, Finley wasn’t supposed to see him naked, step-dad is a homophobe, Finley has naughty thoughts, Austen might roll over in her grave, secrets and confessions under sparkly stars, mutual pining, the world is unfair, pining-pining-and-more-pining, Finley turns naughty thoughts to actions, so what there are rules?, maybe they shouldn’t have done that, jealousy is an ugly green beast, Austen might like this now, forgetting is impossible, more impossible is choosing between heart and home.]]> 275 Anyta Sunday Amanda 5
I don't know why I keep picking up books in this series and thinking "I'll just start a couple chapters before I have to get xxx done.", because inevitably everything else I absolutely have to do gets shoved aside as I'm completely immersed in these wonderful stories that Sunday is writing. This book was a little angstier than the others in the series, but it absolutely worked for these two MCs. There's so much pining, so many feelings, just absolutely so much to love about this story. There was also a little to hate as our favorite evil twins made a repeat appearance, but I can forgive that as their plans are thwarted once again. A heartbreaking forbidden romance with a perfect HEA. Please, please, let this not be the last in the series. ]]> 4.03 2021 Finley Embraces Heart & Home (Love, Austen, #4)
author: Anyta Sunday
name: Amanda
average rating: 4.03
book published: 2021
rating: 5
read at: 2021/09/09
date added: 2024/12/20
shelves: 2021-favorites, arcs, contemporary, college, favorite-series, forbidden-relationship, instalove, m-m, mm-romance, released-in-2021, retelling, romance, series, standalone, sweet, z-letter-e
review:
4.5 Stars!

I don't know why I keep picking up books in this series and thinking "I'll just start a couple chapters before I have to get xxx done.", because inevitably everything else I absolutely have to do gets shoved aside as I'm completely immersed in these wonderful stories that Sunday is writing. This book was a little angstier than the others in the series, but it absolutely worked for these two MCs. There's so much pining, so many feelings, just absolutely so much to love about this story. There was also a little to hate as our favorite evil twins made a repeat appearance, but I can forgive that as their plans are thwarted once again. A heartbreaking forbidden romance with a perfect HEA. Please, please, let this not be the last in the series.
]]> <![CDATA[Emerett Has Never Been in Love (Love, Austen, #1)]]> 56745291 A man who acts before he thinks, a man who thinks before he acts, and the ensuing mishaps on the path to the ultimate love match.

~ ~ ~

Emerett “Lake� Lakewood has a healthy ego and a flair for the dramatic. After losing his best friend to marriage—completely crushing his heart—he deems it prudent to distract himself, and what better way than playing cupid?
He’s already got his eye on two young men desperately seeking romance, and he has a plan to hook them up.
Barbecues.
Photoshoots.
Reciting Shakespearean love declarations.
Lake is killing it. Love is positively pulsing in the air. Anyone could see it.
Well, anyone other than Knight, his best friend’s dad, who cautions Lake to stop meddling. To leave love to its natural course.
Lake has always valued Knight’s frankness, but this time he’s wrong. Without him, two hearts might be doomed never to find love.
Besides, what does Knight know about romance? He’s barely dated in all the seven years Lake’s known him. He’s clueless.
Though, there’s a thought. Knight has everything going for him. Sensibility. Kindness. Generosity. And for a forty-four-year-old, he’s—objectively—freaking hot.
Why is he single?

~ ~ ~

�. . . [T]here may be a hundred different ways of being in love.� ~ Jane Austen

And a hundred different ways not to recognize it.
]]> 262 Anyta Sunday Amanda 5
So I’m going to be honest, I’ve never read anything by Jane Austen *hides in literary shame*. But I love retellings, and I love Anyta Sunday, so I absolutely had to read this one and I’m so glad I did. Big ole note: if you don’t like clueless characters who misunderstand everything, this is NOT the book for you. But for me, I found Lake’s inability to see what was right in front of his eyes to be so incredibly endearing. And strong, reliable, protective Knight was just so patient and perfect for him. This book is a series of comedy of errors and I just loved it to pieces. Sunday is the queen of slow Burns, and this book was no different, these two MCs took a long time to get it together. My one complaint? It ended too soon; and that definitely makes it a win in my book.]]> 3.78 2021 Emerett Has Never Been in Love (Love, Austen, #1)
author: Anyta Sunday
name: Amanda
average rating: 3.78
book published: 2021
rating: 5
read at: 2023/02/19
date added: 2024/12/20
shelves: 2021-favorites, age-gap, arcs, awkward-mc, contemporary, fluffy, found-family, friends-to-lovers, funny, m-m, mm-romance, opposites-attract, released-in-2021, retelling, romance, series, slow-burn, standalone, sweet, uno-2020, z-letter-e
review:
4.5 Stars!

So I’m going to be honest, I’ve never read anything by Jane Austen *hides in literary shame*. But I love retellings, and I love Anyta Sunday, so I absolutely had to read this one and I’m so glad I did. Big ole note: if you don’t like clueless characters who misunderstand everything, this is NOT the book for you. But for me, I found Lake’s inability to see what was right in front of his eyes to be so incredibly endearing. And strong, reliable, protective Knight was just so patient and perfect for him. This book is a series of comedy of errors and I just loved it to pieces. Sunday is the queen of slow Burns, and this book was no different, these two MCs took a long time to get it together. My one complaint? It ended too soon; and that definitely makes it a win in my book.
]]> <![CDATA[Single Omega Dad (The Omega Misfits, #4)]]> 53981389
It doesn’t matter that I’m drawn to him, to his ominous presence and chiseled jaw, his muscular body in his fitted silk suits. I’m a single dad with kids and responsibilities --I don’t have time for that rich bastard.

He keeps coming by the house so I can sign documents, fine. But then he’s got cute gifts for my kids. It’s got to stop. I don’t have time to fix him. Don’t have time to fall in love with an Alpha right now.

A non-shifter Alpha/Omega love story with mpreg, a single widower Omega dad, an Alpha who cannot knot, emotional issues, two adorable identical twin boys, and an HEA.

Some characters from "Trust No Alpha" make appearances in this novel, however, this book is a standalone read.]]> 235 Wendy Rathbone Amanda 5 4.19 2020 Single Omega Dad (The Omega Misfits, #4)
author: Wendy Rathbone
name: Amanda
average rating: 4.19
book published: 2020
rating: 5
read at: 2020/06/28
date added: 2024/12/20
shelves: arcs, fantasy-paranormal, found-family, hurt-comfort, m-m, mpreg, omegaverse, opposites-attract, series, standalone, z-letter-o
review:
With each book this series just continues to get better. I was positive there was no way I would like Mathias, he was the worst in the first book and I didn’t see him redeeming himself. I’m pleasantly surprised to find I was wrong. I think Saber brought out the best in him and made him become the person he could be. I hope we get Triggs story soon so we can see the three brothers fully reconnect to bring Mathias’s redemption arc full circle. Saber is probably my favorite character in this series thus far. He’s tough, bucks all omega stereotypes, and is one hell of a good father (with incredibly adorable children too). I loved their relationship and thought they had great chemistry. I really hope the whole family is in future books!
]]> <![CDATA[Alpha's Embrace (The Omega Misfits, #3)]]> 53197799
My name was given to me at birth by the doctor who delivered me. I have never known my parents. I live in a ten by ten space with one window, a sink and toilet, a bed and a locked door. Once a day I’m taken to an outdoor exercise area. I am allowed a limited access tablet and tutored online by computer programs. I have one friend I talk to through a tiny crack in the wall. His name is Cedric and he has trouble keeping himself quiet. When he isn’t talking to me about monsters and demons, he screams all the time.

Why is my life so isolated and depressing? Because I am a Sylph. Sylphs are the byproduct of illegal Omega to Omega matings. We are all beautiful, but 99.9% are born insane. The rarest of Sylphs, like me, show no outward signs of madness or brain damage, but we live in institutions because we cannot be trusted.

All of us Sylphs who have lived long enough to pass through puberty have hypersexual disorder which makes life even more difficult for us, let alone our keepers. It is like something Alphas call the Burn, a mating urge Alphas experience once every couple of months.

But we’re Sylphs, not Alphas, and this Burn thing? We experience it all the time. It’s a huge problem and why we are kept isolated. Most of us don’t survive through our teens because of it.

One day, a handsome Alpha comes to interview and study me. He calls himself the Chief of Staff but his real name is Geo. Like magic, I fall in love with him instantly. I do everything I can to seduce him. He will have none of it because touch between an Alpha and a Sylph is taboo. But I have plans. No matter what, I intend to bond him and make him mine. Forever.]]> 205 Wendy Rathbone Amanda 4 4.08 2020 Alpha's Embrace (The Omega Misfits, #3)
author: Wendy Rathbone
name: Amanda
average rating: 4.08
book published: 2020
rating: 4
read at: 2020/04/22
date added: 2024/12/20
shelves: arcs, fated-mates, first-time, forbidden-relationship, hurt-comfort, instalove, m-m, mental-health-illness, omegaverse, series, standalone, z-letter-o
review:
This was by far my favorite of the series. I adored Misha and how he defied all that was known about Syphs. He had such a pure way about him, and I loved how he created a fantasy world to keep himself sane. Geo was amazing too. He took everything he knew about the world and turned it on it’s head. With omegaverse, so often the stories seem almost cookie cutter, but here Rathbone has done an amazing job at creating an entire new world. My one complaint is that it seemed to end abruptly and I would’ve liked to get more about their lives after everything.
]]> <![CDATA[A Nest for Eli (Alaskan Pebble Gifters, #6)]]> 57372147
When Maxim, an alpha polar bear shifter, asks for Eli’s help making an app to pair hired fists with pregnant omegas in need, Eli immediately agrees. He doesn’t expect to be so captivated by Maxim’s kind blue eyes and quiet intelligence. After all, Eli’s never felt attracted to another alpha before.

But Maxim makes him question everything.

When their friendship turns into a passion more life-changing than Eli has ever known, the biggest question he has is this: how will Maxim feel about being in a relationship with a hired fist? Is Eli willing to quit his job to be with him? And if he does, what will happen to the pregnant penguin shifters who need his help?

A Nest for Eli is book 6 of The Alaskan Pebble Gifters series, and will not make sense unless you have read the entire series. While Eli’s and Max’s story is more focused on MPreg than any other book in the Alaskan Pebble Gifters series, neither of the main characters become pregnant. You can still expect penguin chicks at the end, nesting, and lots of penguin shifter nonsense.]]> 249 Amy Bellows Amanda 4 4.30 2021 A Nest for Eli (Alaskan Pebble Gifters, #6)
author: Amy Bellows
name: Amanda
average rating: 4.30
book published: 2021
rating: 4
read at: 2022/02/15
date added: 2024/12/20
shelves: arcs, fantasy-paranormal, fated-mates, favorite-authors, favorite-series, forbidden-relationship, found-family, m-m, mm-romance, omegaverse, released-in-2021, romance, series, shifters, standalone, sweet, uno-2020, z-letter-e
review:

]]> <![CDATA[The Second and His Bonded (Kincaid Pack #2)]]> 53438862
After barely escaping his abusive family, wolf shifter Kieran McAllister struggles to find his place in the Kincaid Pack. Especially with the pushy but gorgeous second-in-command showing up every time Kieran turns around� and making him want things he shouldn’t.

The traumatized wolf who continuously refuses Bennett Young’s help has begun to haunt his dreams. But if there’s one thing he knows, it’s that tiger shifters don’t have mates. So why ’t Bennett get Kieran’s sad eyes out of his head?

Despite their differences, Kieran and Bennet find something they never expected in each other. Just as their bond begins to grow though, Kieran's past threatens to destroy the very pack they both have been fighting to protect.

The Second and His Bonded is the second book in the Kincaid Pack series and features an overprotective tiger, a touch-starved wolf, lots of purring, an excessive amount of sunbathing, and a happily ever after.]]> 334 Kiki Clark Amanda 5 4.17 2020 The Second and His Bonded (Kincaid Pack #2)
author: Kiki Clark
name: Amanda
average rating: 4.17
book published: 2020
rating: 5
read at: 2022/10/04
date added: 2024/12/20
shelves: arcs, enemies-to-lovers, fantasy-paranormal, fated-mates, found-family, hurt-comfort, m-m, series, shifters, z-letter-y
review:
4.5 stars! I personally loved this one even more than the first one! I loved Bennet and Kieran and really enjoyed watching their relationship develop. There was more of that amazing world building we saw in book 1, and a lot of our questions were answered, while still introducing more intrigue to make me want the next book as soon as possible. Kiki Clark has done a great job creating a new shifter world with awesome romance and such interesting pack politics that this series will keep me reading for a long time to come.
]]> In Step (Painted Bay, #3) 58931220
A past he isn’t proud of.

A family he’s walked away from.

A job he doesn’t deserve.

A secret he’s ashamed of.

But life’s dance can make for unexpected partners, and learning to trust and keep up with the footwork is the name of the game.

Two steps forward, one step back.

It takes two to Tango.

]]> 373 Jay Hogan 0995132674 Amanda 4 arcs, uno2022, z-letter-i 4.40 2022 In Step (Painted Bay, #3)
author: Jay Hogan
name: Amanda
average rating: 4.40
book published: 2022
rating: 4
read at: 2022/02/07
date added: 2024/12/20
shelves: arcs, uno2022, z-letter-i
review:
This book ad everything I've come to expect from a Hogan story. Big emotions, real characters, and an absolutely lovely romance. I've been dying for Kane's story ever since we first saw him in Off Balance, and it definitely didn't disappoint. My heart broke for him and all he's been through, but I thought Hogan masterfully wove a tale of how he came back from it and built a family along the way. Abe was the perfect counterpart with his protective streak and his ability to see through all the walls that Kane had erected and their love blooms organically and so believable. An emotional and riveting read, and while I'm sad it seems to be the end of Painted Bay, I'm excited to see what Hogan cooks up next!
]]> On Board (Painted Bay #2) 58994903
Leroy has buried his attraction to the enigmatic fisherman in irritation and pointless bickering, keeping Fox at a safe distance. But with the troublesome man now living in Leroy’s house, it’s becoming impossible for Leroy to keep his true feelings hidden, or the fact that Leroy maybe isn’t so straight, after all.

Leroy hungers for something different between them. He wants more. But Leroy’s business is struggling, his newly mended relationship with his brother is at risk, Fox doesn’t plan to stay, and their mothers are lovers.

Regardless of what Leroy’s heart so desperately wants, his entire world is at stake, and nothing about a relationship with Fox Carmody was ever going to be easy.]]> 375 Jay Hogan Amanda 4 4.50 2021 On Board (Painted Bay #2)
author: Jay Hogan
name: Amanda
average rating: 4.50
book published: 2021
rating: 4
read at: 2023/04/18
date added: 2024/12/20
shelves: arcs, contemporary, enemies-to-lovers, favorite-authors, first-time, fluffy, gfy-bfy-ofy, m-m, mm-romance, released-in-2021, romance, series, small-town, standalone, steamy, uno2023, z-letter-o
review:
I really enjoyed the first book in this series, but I think I loved this one even more! I'm a sucker for a redemption story and Leroy desperately needed a good redemption. And while he's still such a grumpy gus (which I also love in a character), you really get to see his thoughts, motivation, and just growth and he honestly might be one of my favorite Hogan characters (which is saying I lot because I'm a true Hogan fangirl).And Fox was the perfect companion because he was big smiles with some internal pain and just a ray of sunshine for Leroy. As always the writing was beautiful, the character interactions witty, and the biawakening was steamy and amazing. Really cannot wait for book 3 (and I hope it's Kane!)
]]> Off Balance (Painted Bay, #1) 55208012
But dreams are fickle things. Shatter them and it’s hard to pick up the pieces. Hard to believe. Hard to start again.

But the hardest thing of all? Finding the courage to trust in love and build a new dream where you least expected it.]]> 382 Jay Hogan Amanda 4 4.25 2020 Off Balance (Painted Bay, #1)
author: Jay Hogan
name: Amanda
average rating: 4.25
book published: 2020
rating: 4
read at: 2020/09/19
date added: 2024/12/20
shelves: age-gap, angst, arcs, contemporary, fluffy, friends-to-lovers, funny, hurt-comfort, illness, m-m, opposites-attract, series, small-town, standalone, sweet, z-letter-o
review:
Jay Hogan has this beautiful way of writing that transports you straight into the story. I’ve never been to NZ, but almost can feel I have with her beautiful imagery. This story was no exception and I loved reading about Judah and Morgan. Both of them have been through a lot, but there is an instant chemistry and amazing banter right from the start. The secondary characters were amazing in their own right (even though there were some grade a jerks), and I ’t wait to see who gets the next in the series. A lot of heat, a little dash of suspense, a whole lot of love (learning to love someone new and learning to love yourself as well), I have to say I definitely recommend this one.
]]> <![CDATA[Prince's Master (Calluvia's Royalty #4; Masters #1)]]> 53951435 A prince and a villain incapable of love: it wasn't supposed to be a love story...

Separated from his family after an assassination attempt, Prince Eridan is rescued by the reclusive Order of monks who control High Hronthar, an isolated school for telepaths. Eridan believes he’s an ordinary orphan, one of hundreds of initiates of the Order trying to survive in a nest of intrigue, rivalry, and corruption, but he’s more important than he knows.

When Castien Idhron, the most powerful man in the Order, claims Eridan as his apprentice, Eridan’s confused and wary. Corrupt, heartless, and calculating, Castien plays with the lives of those around him as if they’re just a game. Eridan’s just another pawn.

Eridan despises his Master, and yet he finds himself craving his attention and approval like a drug he ’t live without.

Castien has never understood the concepts of kindness and love, but to his displeasure, his insolent apprentice has a way of getting under his skin like nothing else.

Will the master manipulator win the game, or will he play himself?

This book contains explicit content, a teacher-student MM relationship, power imbalance, age difference (35/21).]]> 347 Alessandra Hazard Amanda 5 4.19 2020 Prince's Master (Calluvia's Royalty #4; Masters #1)
author: Alessandra Hazard
name: Amanda
average rating: 4.19
book published: 2020
rating: 5
read at: 2023/06/23
date added: 2024/12/19
shelves: 2020-favorites, age-gap, arcs, enemies-to-lovers, favorite-series, first-time, m-m, mental-health-illness, opposites-attract, royalty, series, slow-burn, tower2023, z-letter-i, z-letter-e
review:
It’s been awhile since I read the previous books in this series, and a reread definitely would’ve helped, but honestly, it didn’t take long for me to be completely transported right back into the Calluvia world. This book takes place concurrently with all the others in this series, but rather than focus on royalty, focuses on the mind-adepts and the Order. The “bad guys� of the previous books, if you’re looking for a complete turnaround, don’t expect that here. Rather, you just get to see the why behind the manipulations and get to know how the power is gained behind the scenes. Castien is far from loving, and it’ll be hard to even like him, but that doesn’t make this story any less completely enthralling. It’s a very well done enemies-ish to lovers, almost a Stockholm syndrome situation, but despite knowing you shouldn’t, you’ll be rooting for the relationship the entire time. It’s hard to put into words why I loved this as much as I did, but it’s so amazingly well written and full of political intrigue, backstabbing, and an emotionally stunted Mc paired with an “over emotional� MC. What’s not to love?
]]> Pick Me (Sunday Brothers, #1) 58051815
A chance to gain some work experience. To have some fun. To get away from my overprotective brothers. To maybe, possibly encounter some lumberjacks in their natural habitat before moving on to the dream career that awaited me in the city.

I had not expected to be welcomed into a family of gorgeous and weirdly efficient lumberjack-types myself. Or to find a purpose in the tiny Vermont town whose claim to fame seemed to be apple-based products and copious amounts of charm.

And I most definitely hadn’t expected to fall for Knox Sunday, my grumpy, burly, fifteen-years-older, reluctant roommate, with his infuriating lectures, his hot-as-fire body, his superior attitude, his snarky humor, and his stealth cuddles.

Now I find myself making excuses to delay my big dreams� just for a little while.

But Knox has unfulfilled dreams of his own. A career he walked away from. A big city life in Boston he left behind when he returned to his hometown to help his family. He claims he’s not looking for anything permanent, and I’ve never been one to put down roots.

My big life is waiting for me somewhere other than Little Pippin Hollow. So why does it feel like I’ve finally found the home of my heart?

And how can I get Knox Sunday to� pick me?]]> 334 May Archer Amanda 5 4.20 2021 Pick Me (Sunday Brothers, #1)
author: May Archer
name: Amanda
average rating: 4.20
book published: 2021
rating: 5
read at: 2024/11/07
date added: 2024/11/07
shelves: arcs, contemporary, enemies-to-lovers, favorite-authors, favorite-series, funny, m-m, mental-health-illness, mm-romance, opposites-attract, released-in-2021, romance, series, small-town, standalone, sweet, tower2022, wheel24
review:
I'm pretty sure with May's last book I waxed poetic about how absolutely amazing the Grumpy/Sunshine trope was done, and May has done it again here! Grumpy Knox and Sunshine Gage just work so well together. It's almost an enemies to lovers tale, and watching these two snipe at each other worked for a very snarky foreplay for a couple that I ended up loving. Little Pippin Hollow has given us another extremely fun cast of characters set in a gorgeous Vermont landscape. As always, May has started a new series that is fun, funny, steamy, and just makes you excited to see what comes next!
]]> <![CDATA[Ruler (Wolves of Royal Paynes #2)]]> 54329521
It all started with a mouse and a note. After that, Faust kept receiving strange messages delivered by forest animals. He’s no cartoon princess and this sh*t is weird but not life-threatening. He ignores it until he receives a flurry of notes all with the same message, help me, and there is no way Faust can ignore the odd messages any longer.

Storri was locked in a tower over five years ago, trapped there by a man he trusted. The man claims to be protecting Storri from himself and others, but Storri never had any enemies—only a teacher he thought had been a friend. Storri's ability to communicate with animals helped him stay sane in isolation, but after so long alone, hope has faded.

Rescuing his prince is only half the challenge. Faust and his pack already have a mystery, and they’ve never been closer to finding out who destroyed their family and why. But with knowledge, comes danger and the man who took Storri isn’t the only one willing to do anything to get their hands on him.

Ruler is the second book in the Wolves of Royal Paynes series. It is an action-packed, magically-infused, swelteringly hot, mpreg romance that continues a world of angels, demons, mystery, and magic. For maximum enjoyment, this series should be read in order.]]> 344 Kiki Burrelli Amanda 4 4.26 Ruler (Wolves of Royal Paynes #2)
author: Kiki Burrelli
name: Amanda
average rating: 4.26
book published:
rating: 4
read at: 2024/10/22
date added: 2024/10/22
shelves: arcs, fantasy-paranormal, fated-mates, favorite-authors, first-time, found-family, hurt-comfort, m-m, opposites-attract, shifters, wheel24
review:
Can I just start by saying how much I love Storri? He’s like sunshine personified even after all he’s been through AND he can talk to animals. How cool is that?? Which leads to my second favorite character, Dog. (Sorry Faust!). Dog has been an interesting character since the beginning, there always seemed to be more to him than the average dog, but actually getting to hear his thoughts was a delight. Faust, of course, was amazing as well, a perfect protective Alpha. I’m loving the world building that’s going into this series, and can tell it’s leading up to something huge. I think the last book is gonna blow us away with big reveals, but until then, I’m really enjoying getting to see all these broken down alphas find their mates.
]]> Chrysalis (The Formicary #1) 58769717
I haven’t forgotten everything, though. Grayson Laurie has always been my kryptonite, and it would take more than a bullet to the brain to forget him. He assures me that I’m imagining the distance between us, but I know better. I just don’t know how to fix it. I console myself that at least I've reached rock bottom and things ’t get worse…until they do.

My life is a tangled mess of lies and deceit. The more I learn about myself, the less I want to know. I want nothing more than an honest future with Gray, but the past isn't about to let me go without a fight.

Fortunately, I’m starting to realize that fighting is my specialty.]]> 274 S.E. Harmon Amanda 4 4.18 2021 Chrysalis (The Formicary #1)
author: S.E. Harmon
name: Amanda
average rating: 4.18
book published: 2021
rating: 4
read at: 2024/10/14
date added: 2024/10/14
shelves: arcs, contemporary, favorite-authors, funny, hurt-comfort, injury, m-m, mm-romance, mystery, opposites-attract, profession-medical, released-in-2021, romance, second-chance, series, suspense, wheel24
review:
Okay, let's be real, memory loss books make me SO anxious, if the head you're in in a book doesn't know whats going on then neither do you and it makes me question everything. But this is SE Harmon, so of course I was gonna pick it up because I knew it was going to be good. And I was right on all counts, it was a wild, sometimes anxiety-driven ride, with all the amazing snark and with Harmon is known for, as well as a huge heap of suspense added on. I absolutely loved getting to relive Christian's memories with him, and slowly watch as he learns who he is, and what is really going on with Dr. Grayson Laurie. You can definitely feel their love and emotion, even if it is hesitant at first, but it made it all the more sweet as it slowly regrows and evolves. There's a fair amount of worldbuilding that goes on, edge of the seat excitement, and of course a great romance. It does end on a bit of a cliffy, so I honestly cannot wait for the next book!
]]> <![CDATA[Stop Cock (The Plumber's Mate Mysteries, #6)]]> 57033563 A match made in heaven � but the honeymoon from hell

Plumber Tom Paretski and his newly-wedded husband, PI Phil Morrison, plan to enjoy their honeymoon in Italy to the full. It should be the start of a wonderful future together. But when Wayne—Phil’s ex best mate and Tom’s former bully—turns up unexpectedly at their hotel, issues from their schooldays threaten to derail the fun. Tom may not bear a grudge against Phil for past injuries any longer, but Wayne’s another matter—or is he?

Wayne now seems determined to make friends, but Tom’s struggling to forgive and forget. To add to his confusion, cryptic messages from home spark the question: Are he and Phil are really as in tune as he thought? Tom’s not the first man Phil ever made a commitment to, and that marriage turned sour sooner rather than later.

It shouldn’t surprise them when death explodes onto the scene in shocking fashion, and their honeymoon turns into a murder investigation. When the group of locals Wayne had been meeting with turn their attention to Tom’s psychic abilities, he and Phil will need to pull together to figure out what’s going on—or risk this trip being the last they’ll ever take.]]> 259 J.L. Merrow 1626499500 Amanda 4
Merged review:

Reading another book with Tom and Phil is like a warm hug, it’s just comforting and lovely seeing them have wedded bliss; even when it comes with a side of old enemies/friends and murder. This book had everything I’ve come to expect from the series, hilarious wit, wonderful writing, an interesting mystery, and just one of my absolute favorite couples (although I really do wish they’d get better with communicating with each other already!). If you’ve been wanting more resolution regarding the former bullying, I think you’ll be very happy with this book as you really get to see how apologetic and regretful Phil is. There’s just so much love between these book and I could honestly read a dozen more books about these two and everything they encounter!]]> 4.03 2021 Stop Cock (The Plumber's Mate Mysteries, #6)
author: J.L. Merrow
name: Amanda
average rating: 4.03
book published: 2021
rating: 4
read at: 2023/02/08
date added: 2024/09/24
shelves: 2021-favorites, arcs, contemporary, established-couple, favorite-authors, favorite-series, funny, m-m, mm-romance, mystery, opposites-attract, pirates-2021, released-in-2021, romance, series, trip, you-sound-like-youre-from-london
review:
Reading another book with Tom and Phil is like a warm hug, it’s just comforting and lovely seeing them have wedded bliss; even when it comes with a side of old enemies/friends and murder. This book had everything I’ve come to expect from the series, hilarious wit, wonderful writing, an interesting mystery, and just one of my absolute favorite couples (although I really do wish they’d get better with communicating with each other already!). If you’ve been wanting more resolution regarding the former bullying, I think you’ll be very happy with this book as you really get to see how apologetic and regretful Phil is. There’s just so much love between these book and I could honestly read a dozen more books about these two and everything they encounter!

Merged review:

Reading another book with Tom and Phil is like a warm hug, it’s just comforting and lovely seeing them have wedded bliss; even when it comes with a side of old enemies/friends and murder. This book had everything I’ve come to expect from the series, hilarious wit, wonderful writing, an interesting mystery, and just one of my absolute favorite couples (although I really do wish they’d get better with communicating with each other already!). If you’ve been wanting more resolution regarding the former bullying, I think you’ll be very happy with this book as you really get to see how apologetic and regretful Phil is. There’s just so much love between these book and I could honestly read a dozen more books about these two and everything they encounter!
]]> <![CDATA[Rare Vigilance (Whitethorn Agency #1)]]> 55764840 Everything has a price. Especially the truth.

From the author ofPrince of Air and Darknesscomes the first in a thrilling new paranormal series.

Former marine Atlas Kinkaid knows not to ask questions about the clients he protects at the behest of the elite Whitethorn security agency. Just like he doesn’t like anyone asking about his scars—scars left by a mysterious attack that haunts his every waking moment.

Consumed by the need to find out what happened to him, Atlas takes a job providing security to Cristian Slava, the indolent—and gorgeous—son of a notorious businessman. Cristian seems to be just another entitled client, but when nights at the club turn into secret meetings and people start going missing, Atlas realizes there’s more to Cristian—and to protecting him—than meets the eye.

But the same people who are after Cristian have something Atlas desperately craves: they knowexactlywhat happened the fateful night he was attacked—and are willing to tell him everything�

For a price.]]> 331 M.A. Grant 0369701828 Amanda 4
Merged review:

Already a fan of Grant’s works, I was desperate for this one even though I’m not always a vampire fan. If you’re the same way, don’t pass this one up! It is so much more than a vampire story. It’s also a bodyguard/protectee book, a book that’s extremely suspenseful at times, and a book with plenty of twists and turns to keep you wondering what’s going to be coming next. This is definitely book one in the series, and we’re still getting to know the characters, but I definitely like what we’ve seen so far. Everyone’s a little bit prickly, but with good reason, and I truly ’t wait until we get to see them come completely out of their shells as more secrets are revealed as the series progresses!]]> 3.87 2021 Rare Vigilance (Whitethorn Agency #1)
author: M.A. Grant
name: Amanda
average rating: 3.87
book published: 2021
rating: 4
read at: 2021/05/21
date added: 2024/09/22
shelves: pirates-2021, arcs, boss-employee, enemies-to-lovers, fantasy-paranormal, m-m, mm-romance, released-in-2021, romance, series, slow-burn, spooky, suspense
review:
Already a fan of Grant’s works, I was desperate for this one even though I’m not always a vampire fan. If you’re the same way, don’t pass this one up! It is so much more than a vampire story. It’s also a bodyguard/protectee book, a book that’s extremely suspenseful at times, and a book with plenty of twists and turns to keep you wondering what’s going to be coming next. This is definitely book one in the series, and we’re still getting to know the characters, but I definitely like what we’ve seen so far. Everyone’s a little bit prickly, but with good reason, and I truly ’t wait until we get to see them come completely out of their shells as more secrets are revealed as the series progresses!

Merged review:

Already a fan of Grant’s works, I was desperate for this one even though I’m not always a vampire fan. If you’re the same way, don’t pass this one up! It is so much more than a vampire story. It’s also a bodyguard/protectee book, a book that’s extremely suspenseful at times, and a book with plenty of twists and turns to keep you wondering what’s going to be coming next. This is definitely book one in the series, and we’re still getting to know the characters, but I definitely like what we’ve seen so far. Everyone’s a little bit prickly, but with good reason, and I truly ’t wait until we get to see them come completely out of their shells as more secrets are revealed as the series progresses!
]]> <![CDATA[Unguarded (Vino & Veritas, #10)]]> 56758557 Another rollicking Vermont romance is coming your way!

I fled Boston, and my cheating jerk of an ex, with three hundred dollars and a lip gloss in my pocket. Waking up the next day in Burlington, Vermont, with a crick in my back and a frozen ass hadn’t exactly been my plan. If there was one. Which there wasn’t. Story of my life.

Three hours later, I’ve somehow got myself hired as temporary help in the local veterinary and grooming clinic. I might know zip about animals—but I do know I’m crushing on the sexy, absent-minded vet I work for.

My life is a hot mess, and the last thing I need is another relationship. Emmett pushes all my buttons, but he isn’t out. He's overwhelmed with a business to run and a son to look after and the kind of domestic life I never thought I wanted.

I should walk away. But Emmett believes in me, and I'm beginning to believe in myself. As different as we are, is it possible we're exactly what the other needs?
]]> 345 Jay Hogan Amanda 5
Usually when I write a Hogan review I gush about the descriptions of the beautiful New Zealand setting, but Hogan wrote something completely different here so I'm going to do something different as well and just gush about the characters. Because Hogan completely rocked the characters with this one! The plot was good, although mostly it was nothing much going on, but that was completely okay! These characters were so well developed, so interesting, so fun that I would probably read an entire second book where they're just happily settled and nothing happens. I adored both sassy, out and proud, snarky Tai and quiet, blushing, lovely Emmett. They do have their issues to work through, but it was beautiful watching them work through it together. These two move quickly into more, but it was organic and worked for them. It was just a lovely book that definitely kept a smile on my face.]]> 4.31 2021 Unguarded (Vino & Veritas, #10)
author: Jay Hogan
name: Amanda
average rating: 4.31
book published: 2021
rating: 5
read at: 2024/09/16
date added: 2024/09/16
shelves: arcs, contemporary, cute-kids, favorite-authors, first-time, fluffy, gfy-bfy-ofy, instalove, m-m, mm-romance, opposites-attract, released-in-2021, romance, multi-author-series, standalone, sweet
review:
4.5 Stars

Usually when I write a Hogan review I gush about the descriptions of the beautiful New Zealand setting, but Hogan wrote something completely different here so I'm going to do something different as well and just gush about the characters. Because Hogan completely rocked the characters with this one! The plot was good, although mostly it was nothing much going on, but that was completely okay! These characters were so well developed, so interesting, so fun that I would probably read an entire second book where they're just happily settled and nothing happens. I adored both sassy, out and proud, snarky Tai and quiet, blushing, lovely Emmett. They do have their issues to work through, but it was beautiful watching them work through it together. These two move quickly into more, but it was organic and worked for them. It was just a lovely book that definitely kept a smile on my face.
]]> <![CDATA[All Fired Up (Ashes & Dust, #1)]]> 55452131 Once bitten. Twice burned. Forever bonded.

Don’t miss this riveting and romantic spin-off series from Jenn Burke, author ofNot Dead Yet.

Paranormals are dying. All over the city, with no explanation and only one thing in common: their magic is missing.

Vampire and private investigator Evan Fournier isn’t supposed to be taking on paranormal cases, but when the murderer hits close to home, he agrees to look into it. The last thing he expects is to become a target himself—and then to become irrevocably bonded to the man who just tried to kill him.

With his memory gone and his soul bonded to a stranger, former firefighter Colin Zhang wants to be anywhere else. He doesn’t have a damn clue why he just tried to kill Evan, and he didn’t evenknowabout magic until just now. The sooner he can get back to his real life, the better.

But every time either of them tries to leave, pure agony stops them short. Forced to work with Evan or suffer the consequences, Colin must excavate the secrets buried in his missing memories while battling two rising threats: the conspiracy behind the murder, and his mutual attraction to the bond mate he never wanted.]]> 256 Jenn Burke 036970181X Amanda 5
Yes to this book! Okay, first if you haven't read the Not Dead Yet series stop what you're doing and do that, it's not one hundred percent necessary but you will definitely enjoy this more and feel so many more emotions if you do so. Then pick up this absolutely wonderful book and get to see Evan heal and grow and love and meet the super interesting Colin! This book takes place 5 years after the events of the last book in the NDY series, which again, if you read that series you know was necessary for Evan to be in a place to have a story at all; and once again Burke delivers on a clever mystery, an intriguing world, and a growing romance. This ends with a shaky HFN, a promise that they will see where it goes, but it only makes me hunger for the rest of the series more! There's new big bads, the same old amazing found family (although more Wes and Hudson would always be appreciated), and such an intriguing story. Definitely one you wont want to miss!

Merged review:

4.5 Stars!

Yes to this book! Okay, first if you haven't read the Not Dead Yet series stop what you're doing and do that, it's not one hundred percent necessary but you will definitely enjoy this more and feel so many more emotions if you do so. Then pick up this absolutely wonderful book and get to see Evan heal and grow and love and meet the super interesting Colin! This book takes place 5 years after the events of the last book in the NDY series, which again, if you read that series you know was necessary for Evan to be in a place to have a story at all; and once again Burke delivers on a clever mystery, an intriguing world, and a growing romance. This ends with a shaky HFN, a promise that they will see where it goes, but it only makes me hunger for the rest of the series more! There's new big bads, the same old amazing found family (although more Wes and Hudson would always be appreciated), and such an intriguing story. Definitely one you wont want to miss!]]> 4.00 2021 All Fired Up (Ashes & Dust, #1)
author: Jenn Burke
name: Amanda
average rating: 4.00
book published: 2021
rating: 5
read at: 2021/05/13
date added: 2024/09/12
shelves: 2021-favorites, age-gap, arcs, fantasy-paranormal, found-family, gfy-bfy-ofy, hurt-comfort, m-m, magic-witches-wizards, mental-health-illness, pirates-2021, released-in-2021, romance, series, spooky, suspense
review:
4.5 Stars!

Yes to this book! Okay, first if you haven't read the Not Dead Yet series stop what you're doing and do that, it's not one hundred percent necessary but you will definitely enjoy this more and feel so many more emotions if you do so. Then pick up this absolutely wonderful book and get to see Evan heal and grow and love and meet the super interesting Colin! This book takes place 5 years after the events of the last book in the NDY series, which again, if you read that series you know was necessary for Evan to be in a place to have a story at all; and once again Burke delivers on a clever mystery, an intriguing world, and a growing romance. This ends with a shaky HFN, a promise that they will see where it goes, but it only makes me hunger for the rest of the series more! There's new big bads, the same old amazing found family (although more Wes and Hudson would always be appreciated), and such an intriguing story. Definitely one you wont want to miss!

Merged review:

4.5 Stars!

Yes to this book! Okay, first if you haven't read the Not Dead Yet series stop what you're doing and do that, it's not one hundred percent necessary but you will definitely enjoy this more and feel so many more emotions if you do so. Then pick up this absolutely wonderful book and get to see Evan heal and grow and love and meet the super interesting Colin! This book takes place 5 years after the events of the last book in the NDY series, which again, if you read that series you know was necessary for Evan to be in a place to have a story at all; and once again Burke delivers on a clever mystery, an intriguing world, and a growing romance. This ends with a shaky HFN, a promise that they will see where it goes, but it only makes me hunger for the rest of the series more! There's new big bads, the same old amazing found family (although more Wes and Hudson would always be appreciated), and such an intriguing story. Definitely one you wont want to miss!
]]> <![CDATA[Line Mates & Study Dates (CU Hockey, #4)]]> 57537914 ASHER

Hockey, studying, and school runs. That’s my life now.

After a tragic accident that took our parents� lives, it’s up to me and my big brother to take care of our five younger siblings.

In between burning their meals and keeping them from killing each other, I’m supposed to get a college degree. It’s hard when I don’t have time to breathe let alone study, and if I don’t get my grades up, I’m in danger of losing the one thing that makes me happy: my spot on the hockey team.

Which is why when the new equipment manager offers to tutor me, I really ’t afford to say no. Even though I should.

He’s Coach’s son and way too tempting.


KOLE

As this year’s equipment manager for Dad’s hockey team, I’m expected to deal with sweaty jock straps and herding hockey players to their rooms at away games.

The job is easy, but babysitting Asher Dalton is not supposed to be a part of it.

So why, when his brother asks me to keep an eye on him, do I agree?

Why, when he’s struggling in classes, do I offer to help?

And why, when we’re studying, do I suggest a reward system that lands us squarely in bed?

Asher's trouble, I know he is. But there's something about him that makes it impossible to stay away.]]> 308 Eden Finley Amanda 5 4.20 2021 Line Mates & Study Dates (CU Hockey, #4)
author: Eden Finley
name: Amanda
average rating: 4.20
book published: 2021
rating: 5
read at: 2024/08/26
date added: 2024/08/26
shelves: 2021-favorites, arcs, college, contemporary, favorite-series, fluffy, forbidden-relationship, hurt-comfort, m-m, mm-romance, pirates-2021, released-in-2021, romance, series, sports-hockey, standalone, sweet, tower2022
review:
Every book in this series just has me smiling the entire time I'm reading. We have Asher full of angst and man pain and just projecting this whole smartass bad boy attitude when he's really just like a sweet cinnamon roll bottling up emotions and doing his best to take care of his family. And Kole, who isn't afraid to be 100% himself, even in the face of his dad's perceived disappointment, is a natural caretaker, and is able to see right through Asher's mask to the wonderful man underneath. I just loved everything about this story, and how it just pulled my heart strings, had smoking hot chemistry, sneaky love, and just characters I adored more than I can say. And the next book?? Sign me up because I am HERE for it.
]]> <![CDATA[Goal Lines & First Times (CU Hockey, #3)]]> 56225260 COHEN

It turns out making out with my best friend in high school could be considered gay. Who knew? Apparently, everyone but me.

Now that it’s been pointed out, I ’t help reliving it in my head. Repeatedly. Goodbye Denial Town, hello Confusionville.

When my path leads me down the gay dating app route, I don’t expect to meet anyone I like, but then I meet him.

He ’t be more opposite than me. He’s smart, he hates hockey, and he identifies as demi—something I’ve never heard of.

Yet I ’t deny something’s there. Something I want to explore in person. If only I could get him to agree.



SETH

All my life, I’ve felt broken.

Sick of being asked if I could be gay by ex-girlfriends, friends, and even my parents, I join a gay dating app to prove a point.

I don’t expect to find what’s always been missing. A real connection.

The problem is, I’m too scared to meet him in person. He’s a hockey player, and I fear when he finds out my twin plays for the NHL, I’ll be overshadowed by my overachieving brother. Again.

Worse yet, what happens if we meet and that connection isn’t the same?

When I tell him I’m not ready, he’s disappointed but supportive. Fate, on the other hand, isn’t as accepting.

I had no idea the person I’ve been falling for is someone I already know.]]> 316 Eden Finley Amanda 5 4.05 2021 Goal Lines & First Times (CU Hockey, #3)
author: Eden Finley
name: Amanda
average rating: 4.05
book published: 2021
rating: 5
read at: 2024/08/26
date added: 2024/08/26
shelves: 2021-favorites, arcs, college, contemporary, first-time, fluffy, friends-to-lovers, m-m, opposites-attract, pan-demi, released-in-2021, romance, series, sports-hockey, standalone, sweet, tower2022
review:
I loved absolutely EVERYTHING about this book. It was one of those books that made me want to call in sick to work to be able to keep reading. It just made me so happy the entire time, and I loved Cohen and Seth so much. It does take a while for them to actually get together, but honestly, it wasn’t annoying and it worked so well with how the two of them are I think any other way would’ve been ridiculous. And their chat conversations were so amazing that I didn’t miss them being in the same physical space at all. If you’re looking for a sweet, slow burn leading to some pretty good steam with the most loveable characters and such good pan/Demi rep, this is the book for you! Plus there’s one instant of non communication and as soon as it comes to light guess what they do? They communicate! This review is pretty ramble-y and I’m sorry about that, I just am on an endorphin high with how much I loved this book. READ IT.
]]> <![CDATA[Coaching the Nerd (Nerds vs Jocks, #2)]]> 56922875
What happens when marshmallow-bodied supernerd Sean volunteers to be on the jocks� flag-football team? It screws Bubba’s fraternity’s chances at the coveted flag football title, that’s what.

Bubba is drafted to be Sean’s personal trainer. He has to whip Sean into shape and make sure he doesn’t F up their team.

Sean may be a supernerd, but to Bubba he’s funny, and wise, and kinda cute. He’s also the one person on campus who doesn’t see Bubba as a big, stupid jock.

One BIG problem. Sean’s motivation for getting into shape is to lose his virginity -- and Bubba isn’t happy when guys start sniffing around.

But Bubba’s straight. Isn’t he?

Can a big, dumb jock from Nowhere, Wisconsin change his whole life for a genius who just wants to get laid?

COACHING THE NERD is a total makeover, opposites attract, My Fair Lady trope, bi awakening, campus romance � that grabs your flag.]]> 300 Eli Easton Amanda 4 4.07 2021 Coaching the Nerd (Nerds vs Jocks, #2)
author: Eli Easton
name: Amanda
average rating: 4.07
book published: 2021
rating: 4
read at: 2024/08/05
date added: 2024/08/05
shelves: arcs, college, contemporary, first-time, fluffy, friends-to-lovers, m-m, mm-romance, nerds, opposites-attract, released-in-2021, romance, series, sports-football, standalone, sweet, uno-2020, tower2022, bookgames24
review:
With this second book I am totally 100% on board for this collaboration. This book was just so full of happiness and I was completely unable to put it down. Two very likeable MCs (although I definitely dislike the other members of the fraternity with this one), who desperately deserve their HEA. Both Bubba and Hedgehog (Sean) have a lot of growing to do throughout the story, but they really come into their own and it’s perfect in this college, NA setting. They are complete opposites in every sense of the world, but as Sean says, they’re like magnets who’s opposites will always attract each other. I’m unsure about the MCs of the last book, but that just makes me want to read it more as I know Easton and Lain will make them into people I love!
]]> <![CDATA[Murder at Pirate's Cove (Secrets and Scrabble, #1)]]> 49090387
Sure enough, the village is charming, its residents amusingly eccentric, and widowed police chief Jack Carson is decidedly yummy (though probably as straight as he is stern). However, the bookstore is failing, the mansion is falling down, and there's that little drawback of finding rival bookseller--and head of the unwelcoming-committee--Trevor Maples dead during the annual Buccaneer Days celebration.

Still, it could be worse. And once Police Chief Carson learns Trevor was killed with the cutlass hanging over the door of Ellery's bookstore, it is.


**This story contains NO on-screen sex or violence.]]> 240 Josh Lanyon 1945802618 Amanda 4 3.97 2020 Murder at Pirate's Cove (Secrets and Scrabble, #1)
author: Josh Lanyon
name: Amanda
average rating: 3.97
book published: 2020
rating: 4
read at: 2024/05/05
date added: 2024/05/05
shelves: small-town, arcs, contemporary, cops, m-m, mystery, series, blue-cover
review:
What a cute start! Very light on the romance, but I’m beginning to notice that Lanyon uses the first book more as an introduction. However, it wasn’t lacking without it! I really enjoyed Ellery and the town of Pirates Cove. There’s a great cast of different characters each with a unique and interesting voice. The mystery was well done too, and I only figured it out right as Ellery did. I’m looking forward to more in the series!
]]> <![CDATA[Schooling the Jock (Nerds vs Jocks, #1)]]> 56922755
A-hoe!
Poindexter!
Snarky, superbrain Dobbs and snooty football star Jesse stare at each other from their rival frat houses on opposites sides of the street -- and opposite sides of everything else.

Alpha Lambda Alpha and Sigma Mu Tau have been sworn enemies for decades. Then one disastrous prank proves to be the final straw, and the college dean blows his cork!

Work together or lose both your houses.

Question - -How can Dobbs win his coveted Quiz Bowl championship when he’s forced to put a dumb jock on his team?
Answer -- Lots of personal schooling.

But when personal becomes very personal, Jesse risks causing his overtaxed family one more huge worry and the running back starts running.

Will Dobbs give up on the shocked jock, or show him that the answer to the big question is, Yes?

SCHOOLING THE JOCK is an enemies-to-lovers, opposites attract, campus romance � with one hell of a lightning round.]]> 310 Eli Easton Amanda 4
As someone who watches way too much Jeopardy to be considered normal, I just knew I had to read this book that takes place during a College Quiz Bowl tournament. Thrown in a little opposites attract, nerd/jock action and I am so there. As I've come to expect from both Easton and Lain, this book was very sweet, but had some great snarky banter along with it, and I enjoyed Jesse and Dobbs figuring out how to go from thinking they hated one another, to realizing they really didn't know the other at all, to falling for each other. I did feel like something was missing, but I can't put my finger on what that could be, so it probably was a me thing and not a book thing. Overall, a good start to a new series with a premise I just adore. (I really can't wait for Bubba and Hedgehog's story!)]]> 3.99 2021 Schooling the Jock (Nerds vs Jocks, #1)
author: Eli Easton
name: Amanda
average rating: 3.99
book published: 2021
rating: 4
read at: 2024/05/02
date added: 2024/05/02
shelves: arcs, college, contemporary, cute-kids, enemies-to-lovers, m-m, mm-romance, opposites-attract, released-in-2021, romance, series, sports-football, standalone, sweet, uno-2020
review:
3.5 stars!

As someone who watches way too much Jeopardy to be considered normal, I just knew I had to read this book that takes place during a College Quiz Bowl tournament. Thrown in a little opposites attract, nerd/jock action and I am so there. As I've come to expect from both Easton and Lain, this book was very sweet, but had some great snarky banter along with it, and I enjoyed Jesse and Dobbs figuring out how to go from thinking they hated one another, to realizing they really didn't know the other at all, to falling for each other. I did feel like something was missing, but I can't put my finger on what that could be, so it probably was a me thing and not a book thing. Overall, a good start to a new series with a premise I just adore. (I really can't wait for Bubba and Hedgehog's story!)
]]> <![CDATA[Sacrifice (Fire & Brimstone #2)]]> 52668168
With his mysterious heritage shrouded in shadow, Riley Shepard struggles with his identity, his confusing sexuality, and the prohibited—but deepening—feelings for his guardian angels. Questions remain unanswered. His Guardians harbor secrets. And danger lurks just out of sight.

When disaster strikes, Riley must make a choice that will change everything. But will his sacrifice destroy the life he’s built? Will there be anything left when the dust settles?

To him, it makes no difference. Because for them, it is worth the risk.

***Sacrifice is the second book in the slow burn harem/poly romance series, Fire & Brimstone, featuring hurt/comfort, temptingly sexy guardian angels, forbidden love, and an unlikely hero who discovers what it means to be free. Book 2 is open-ended (no cliffhangers!), but the series will be HEA, I promise. For trigger warnings, see the author's note.***]]> 430 Nik Knight Amanda 5 4.32 2020 Sacrifice (Fire & Brimstone #2)
author: Nik Knight
name: Amanda
average rating: 4.32
book published: 2020
rating: 5
read at: 2024/04/25
date added: 2024/04/25
shelves: 2021-favorites, age-gap, angels, angst, arcs, audibook, fantasy-paranormal, favorite-series, found-family, forbidden-relationship, hurt-comfort, injury, m-m, mm-romance, opposites-attract, owned-audiobook, romance, series, slow-burn, uno24
review:
This book was the definition of a roller coaster! For the first half, it was all adorable cluelessness, so much pining, and just this brilliant lovely found family that I could read a billion books about. Then it was all edge of the seat action, new and exciting characters, plot twists and epic worldbuilding. I seriously do not know how this series isn’t being read by everyone everywhere. We got first kisses and epic battles, confessions of feelings and devastating revelations; and through it all I wanted more! Kirt Graves is a MASTER narrator. So many unique voices as the cast grows, and just the perfect voice to this series. I wish I could wait for them all to come out on audio, but alas, I’m going to have to read them all immediately THEN listen to them on audio. Poor me
]]> <![CDATA[Revelations (Fire & Brimstone #1)]]> 68049768 an alternate cover edition can be found here

Riley thought he knew what to expect from college, but he never planned for angels, demons, or a team of attractive, overprotective Guardians.

When one fateful night opens his eyes to a world he never knew existed, Riley Shepard must navigate a host of supernatural dangers, all while struggling with new and confusing feelings for his guardian angels. With the promise of friends, family, and freedom finally within his grasp, he fears not only for his heart but for his life as well.

Lucky for him, some things are worth dying for.

*** Revelations is the first book in the slow-burn M/M+ romance series, Fire & Brimstone, featuring hurt/comfort, swoon-worthy guardian angels, sexual awakening, and an unlikely hero, too innocent for his own good. Trigger warnings include: situations of homophobia (both external and internal), past child abuse, self-harm, mental health, and one instance (Prologue) of non-graphic sexual assault. ***]]> 347 Nik Knight Amanda 5 4.11 2020 Revelations (Fire & Brimstone #1)
author: Nik Knight
name: Amanda
average rating: 4.11
book published: 2020
rating: 5
read at: 2024/04/24
date added: 2024/04/24
shelves: 2021-favorites, angels, angst, arcs, audibook, fantasy-paranormal, found-family, gfy-bfy-ofy, hurt-comfort, m-m, mm-romance, owned-audiobook, series, slow-burn, sweet, uno24
review:
I’m completely kicking myself for taking so long to pick this book up. From the very first page I was completely riveted and my interest never waned. It’s a slooow burn (there really hasn’t been much development, if any, in this one), but there were so many feelings and emotions I didn’t feel like I was missing out on anything. Add in some interesting world-building, an intriguing plot, unique amazing characters. This book was just five stars across the board! The only thing I’m unsure about is if I can wait for the rest of the audios, or if I’ll have to just read the next books now, then relisten when the rest of the audios come out! If you’re into slow burn romances with unique fantasy twists, this is definitely the book for you!
]]> <![CDATA[Howling on Hold (Mythmatched World, #7)]]> 48664635 Sometimes it’s harder to teach a young dog new tricks.

That’s why werewolves embark on a Howling: a three-year rite of passage in which they’re sent to a group residence to wrestle with their wolfy instincts and assimilate into the Wider World. But Tanner Araya’s Howling is almost over, and he could be called back to his remote pack at any moment. His twenty-first birthday might be his last chance to act on his strongest instinct and finally kiss Chase Denney.

Chase is RA at the Howling residence affectionately dubbed “the Doghouse,� and he takes his job seriously. So seriously that when he realized he was developing feelings for a resident, he forced himself to keep Tanner at a distance. But now that Tanner’s twenty-one, he’s not Chase’s charge any longer. They could be friends or—if Chase is lucky—something more. At least until they both return to their home packs for good, as tradition demands.

It would take a miracle for them to get together—especially when the other Doghouse werewolves insist on “helping.�

Warning: Many Frisbees are harmed in this story, forgiveness is not always easier than permission, and the five-second rule does not apply.]]> 287 E.J. Russell 1626499241 Amanda 4 3.92 2020 Howling on Hold (Mythmatched World, #7)
author: E.J. Russell
name: Amanda
average rating: 3.92
book published: 2020
rating: 4
read at: 2024/04/21
date added: 2024/04/21
shelves: arcs, fantasy-paranormal, favorite-authors, first-time, fluffy, found-family, funny, m-m, shifters, standalone, yellow-cover, wheel2022, uno24
review:
I am a huge fan of both the Fae out of Water and the Supernatural Selections series so I was excited to get to visit the amazing world Russell has created once again. And you definitely get to revisit with all of the past characters! Though I truly think this could be read as a stand-alone. This book has a lot of really great humorous moments, some sweet tender loving moments, and some action packed moments, and makes for one really good story. I hope we get to see more of the Doghouse Pack because it seems to me they all have a story to tell.
]]> <![CDATA[Principles of Spookology (The Spectral Files, #2)]]> 49200184
Rain Christiansen, former FBI agent and current cold case detective, is starting to think it's the hardest job he's ever had—and the most important. He's determined to accept all the changes in his formerly well-ordered life, but that means embracing a whole lot of weird. There's no instruction manual for meshing his work with his medium duties, and he's painfully aware that he's flubbing the job. So are the ghosts, who are becoming increasingly impatient. And stronger.

To complicate matters, he's not sure what these spooktacular developments mean for his relationship. It certainly seems like Daniel McKenna, his partner in work and life, is in it for the long haul. But Rain can't help but wonder how long that patience will last...and what he'll do if Danny decides the intrusive ghosts are just too much.

Rain thought accepting his supernatural gifts would be the solution to his troubles. But he's starting to realize his problems are just getting started.]]> 332 S.E. Harmon Amanda 5 4.38 2020 Principles of Spookology (The Spectral Files, #2)
author: S.E. Harmon
name: Amanda
average rating: 4.38
book published: 2020
rating: 5
read at: 2024/04/10
date added: 2024/04/11
shelves: 2020-favorites, arcs, boss-employee, cops, established-couple, fantasy-paranormal, favorite-series, funny, ghosts, m-m, mystery, series, spooky, exciting, uno24
review:
Just as good as the first, if not better! There was still so much snark and witty remarks (even if they were often in Rain’s head). Rain and Danny’s love is so evident, and it’s somehow made better by the fact they ’t set the sarcasm aside to show it in a more romantic fashion. Lots of laugh out loud moments, tender loving moments, and moments where you’re on the edge of your seat. This is quickly becoming one of my favorite series, and I truly hope we get more!
]]> Tough Guy (Game Changers, #3) 51838143 They have nothing in common—so why does Ryan feel most like himself whenever he’s with Fabian?

Pro hockey star Ryan Price may be an enforcer, but off the ice he struggles with anxiety. Recently traded to the Toronto Guardians, he’s determined to make a fresh start in the city’s dynamic LGBTQ Village. The last thing he expects to stumble upon in his new neighborhood is a blast from his past in the fabulous form of Fabian Salah.

Aspiring musician Fabian loathes hockey. But that doesn’t stop him from being attracted to a certain burly, ginger-bearded defenseman. He hasn’t forgotten the kiss they almost shared back in high school, and it’s clear the chemistry between them has only intensified.

Fabian is more than happy to be Ryan’s guide to the gay scene in Toronto. Between dance clubs and art exhibits—and the most amazing sex—Ryan’s starting to feel something he hasn’t experienced in a long time: joy. But playing the role of the heavy on the ice has taken its toll on his body and mind, and a future with Fabian may mean hanging up his skates for good.]]> 292 Rachel Reid 1488068917 Amanda 5 3.76 2020 Tough Guy (Game Changers, #3)
author: Rachel Reid
name: Amanda
average rating: 3.76
book published: 2020
rating: 5
read at: 2024/04/03
date added: 2024/04/03
shelves: arcs, awkward-mc, contemporary, friends-to-lovers, m-m, manties, opposites-attract, second-chance, series, slow-burn, sports-hockey, standalone
review:
Wow another win! First off, I haven’t read any of the other books in this series but it didn’t lessen my enjoyment anymore. This book was pretty slow burn, and while there were some definite heated scenes, it was a little lower on the steam level. But it was very real; the guys weren’t perfect, their sex lives weren’t perfect, but they made it all work. It also did a very good job portraying what it’s like to live with an anxiety order and didn’t offer any unrealistic quick fix. I also loved that it wasn’t the typical mega cocky Uber jock hockey story. A really well written and sweet opposites attract romance.
]]> King & Queen (RELIC #3) 58091693
It’s especially awkward when said hunky hookup pulls you into a secret war over fossils and a kidnapped, newly awakened Albertosaurus shifter.

As if my life wasn’t already a mess (understatement), now I’m cruising through Canada hunting down an ancient monster who tried to kill us, attempting to get my social media career off the ground, and ignoring my feelings for my one time fling.

Royal is hot as fire, funny, brilliant and has a thing for dinosaurs almost as much as I do.

Probably because he is one.

Bonus.]]> 228 Maz Maddox Amanda 4
"There was a tiny piece of my brain that whispered, ‘You let a hot, shapeshifting dinosaur impregnate your throat. You have to deal with this’�

That had me snorting out loud and that was within the first couple of chapters. Add in some drag queen shenanigans, a lot of sass, and some serious badassery when fighting danger, and this book had everything I've come to expect from the series. On top of that, I adored that we got both genderqueer representation and pansexuality representation, both of which seemed to be done right and definitely did not seem to just be thrown in there for the diversity points. And we got more Dalton being his fierce fabulous self, and his friendship with Royal is just one of the best things ever. Seriously, if you haven't picked up this series yet, what are you waiting for??]]> 4.43 2021 King & Queen (RELIC #3)
author: Maz Maddox
name: Amanda
average rating: 4.43
book published: 2021
rating: 4
read at: 2024/03/29
date added: 2024/03/29
shelves: 2021-favorites, age-gap, arcs, exciting, favorite-authors, favorite-series, fluffy, found-family, funny, homeless, instalove, m-m, mm-romance, opposites-attract, pirates-2021, released-in-2021, romance, series, shifters, standalone, trip
review:
This series just keeps getting better and better! I think I was laughing from almost the very beginning. I mean there were things like this:

"There was a tiny piece of my brain that whispered, ‘You let a hot, shapeshifting dinosaur impregnate your throat. You have to deal with this’�

That had me snorting out loud and that was within the first couple of chapters. Add in some drag queen shenanigans, a lot of sass, and some serious badassery when fighting danger, and this book had everything I've come to expect from the series. On top of that, I adored that we got both genderqueer representation and pansexuality representation, both of which seemed to be done right and definitely did not seem to just be thrown in there for the diversity points. And we got more Dalton being his fierce fabulous self, and his friendship with Royal is just one of the best things ever. Seriously, if you haven't picked up this series yet, what are you waiting for??
]]> Picking Cherries 53243945
Shiloh Formes has lived his young adult life in fear of turning into his brother. Seamus couldn’t make the right choice if it bit him in the bottom. But Shiloh didn’t graduate high school early to spend his life partying like his brother. Shiloh plans on dedicating his life to his academic passion and he knows just the professor to help him get started.

Secret billionaire and respected professor, Beckett Crawford has everything but a mate to love.

Blind since birth, Beckett is an alpha who knows what it’s like to have to work twice as hard as his peers. He understands Shiloh’s passion but the student asks him for a favor Beckett simply cannot grant. But Shiloh doesn’t leave without making an impression on Beckett, and soon, he ’t stop thinking about the student who should be so clearly off-limits.

Shiloh needs to be careful. He ’t afford to fall into the same downward spiral that dragged down his brother. Even if Shiloh has fallen hard for his teacher, nothing can come of it. But when an old enemy threatens Shiloh, it’s Beckett who rushes to protect him. It’s Beckett who offers Shiloh the key to unlocking his academic future, and it is Beckett who cares for Shiloh like he’s the most precious thing in the world. But with as many reasons Shiloh has for why they should be together, there are just as many threatening to tear them apart.

Picking Cherries is the ninth novel in the Welcome to Morningwood Series. It may absolutely be read as a standalone and features an age/gap, student/professor, omegaverse romance with a dash of domestic discipline (lite) to keep it spicy.

Other books included in the Welcome to Morningwood Series:
Gingerbred Lessons
Ball Drop
Sweet Meat
Sack of Gold
Hop On
Red, White & Blew
Pumpkin Cream Pie
Love Nest]]> 176 Kiki Burrelli Amanda 5 4.24 2020 Picking Cherries
author: Kiki Burrelli
name: Amanda
average rating: 4.24
book published: 2020
rating: 5
read at: 2024/03/14
date added: 2024/03/14
shelves: age-gap, arcs, fantasy-paranormal, fated-mates, favorite-authors, favorite-series, first-time, fluffy, m-m, omegaverse, series, shifters, standalone, tower2022
review:
Absolutely loved it! I’ve been wanting Shilohs story since we first met him, and it did not disappoint. Shiloh and Beckett were perfect for each other, and I loved the submission element, even though it is not my usual cup of tea. It worked so well here, and totally fit with both main characters. I also liked that we had a shifter with a disability, as I think that is very interesting but so rarely done, and I’ve not seen it done this well. I love the Morningwood books and ’t wait for more.
]]> <![CDATA[The Vet's Christmas Familiar (Familiar Mates, #4)]]> 55706097 Wounded and left for dead, Kit Linfield is stuck in his eagle form.

A Christmas Eve flight with his family turns to slaughter when hunters take aim at the eagle shifters. Kit plays dead, but he’s wounded and needs help. He wants to live to have a chance at vengeance.

Vet Errol Hart is spending Christmas alone for the first time since his divorce. When a badly wounded eagle is delivered to his care, it’s the first animal that Errol ’t communicate with, and the wedge-tailed eagle is so badly injured, Errol isn’t sure it will survive. But the way it looks at him, like it understands every word he says� They are both keeping secrets.

When Errol learns the truth, he vows to help Kit find the men responsible for the illegal hunt.


For readers who like fated mates and small town gay romance.]]> 190 T.J. Nichols 0648722864 Amanda 4 3.68 2021 The Vet's Christmas Familiar (Familiar Mates, #4)
author: T.J. Nichols
name: Amanda
average rating: 3.68
book published: 2021
rating: 4
read at: 2024/03/01
date added: 2024/03/01
shelves: angst, arcs, christmas, fated-mates, hurt-comfort, m-m, magic-witches-wizards, opposites-attract, series, shifters, uno24
review:
I am really adoring this series and thought this book was another great addition. My heart definitely broke in the beginning and I felt all the grief and pain that went along with what Kit was feeling. I loved how Errol was able to help Kit heal and take care of him when he was going through everything. The two of them definitely had an instant chemistry, even if Kit felt it prior to Errol being able to see him in the same light. There was a touch of action to make me furiously flip pages to find out what was going to happen next, and I’m definitely looking forward to Sam’s story in the next book
]]> <![CDATA[Fake It 'til You Make Out (Love & Luck, #1)]]> 51057368 Heath

It’s a classic story: Boy meets girl, girl breaks boy’s heart, boy pretends to be gay to get back at girl, girl outs boy to everyone on Facebook�

Okay, maybe it’s not that classic. But it’s what happened to me.

When I bump into my cheating ex and catch sight of the moon-sized rock on her finger, there’s only one option to save face: pretend to be dating my gay best friend, Declan.

And when she outs me on Facebook and everyone I know sees it, there’s still only one option: keep pretending to be dating Declan.

And when Declan and I have to kiss to keep up the ruse and it turns out there’s actually a spark between us (more like a blazing inferno, if truth be told) there’s once again only one option�

Warning: this book is not appropriate for anyone who doesn’t like laughing, anyone who doesn’t like dogs, or anyone who doesn’t like hot men having a lot of sex…with each other.

*Happily Ever After included]]> 202 Isla Olsen Amanda 4
This was a very cute and humorous friends to lovers, fake relationship book. I loved the banter between the two MCs and they definitely had a lot of chemistry. It was a relief to see a book with a bi-awakening where the bi MC didn’t have an existential crisis about it, and it did truly seem like the MCs were perfect for each other. I did feel like the pacing was a bit off at times, but overall still really enjoyed the story.]]> 3.87 2020 Fake It 'til You Make Out (Love & Luck, #1)
author: Isla Olsen
name: Amanda
average rating: 3.87
book published: 2020
rating: 4
read at: 2024/02/27
date added: 2024/02/27
shelves: arcs, contemporary, fake-relationship, first-time, fluffy, friends-to-lovers, funny, gfy-bfy-ofy, m-m, series, standalone
review:
3.5 stars!

This was a very cute and humorous friends to lovers, fake relationship book. I loved the banter between the two MCs and they definitely had a lot of chemistry. It was a relief to see a book with a bi-awakening where the bi MC didn’t have an existential crisis about it, and it did truly seem like the MCs were perfect for each other. I did feel like the pacing was a bit off at times, but overall still really enjoyed the story.
]]> Fools (Licking Thicket, #3) 55761536
What’s a 4-letter word for an utterly oblivious, totally commitment-phobic, heartbreakingly gorgeous man with a pet pig named Bernadette?

That’d be D-U-N-N, as in Dunn Johnson, my very best pal and fishing buddy since I moved to Licking Thicket.

What’s a 6-letter word for a nerdy, crossword-loving town doctor who’s doomed to be hopelessly, thoroughly, irrevocably, in love with that straight best friend for the rest of his born days?

That’s T-U-C-K-E-R, as in me.

But when I agree to let Dunn be my 24/7 dating coach, and he decides to get our whole nosy town in on the act, there’s only one 5-letter word to describe the pair of us.

F-O-O-L-S.]]> 276 Lucy Lennox Amanda 4 4.28 2021 Fools (Licking Thicket, #3)
author: Lucy Lennox
name: Amanda
average rating: 4.28
book published: 2021
rating: 4
read at: 2024/02/26
date added: 2024/02/27
shelves: uno-2020, arcs, contemporary, favorite-authors, favorite-series, first-time, fluffy, friends-to-lovers, m-m, mm-romance, opposites-attract, released-in-2021, small-town, standalone
review:
This book was everything I've grown to expect from this series and more! It was laugh out loud funny, had wonderful characters, and a very very satisfying love story. I really loved Tucker and Dunn and thought their best best friends to lovers story was done perfectly. While there were times I waned them both to just get their acts together and see what they were missing, the journey was an amazing ride and such a joy to read about. There was some very OTP scenarios, so if that's not for you definitely skip it, but for me it just added some much needed laughter and kept me from putting the book down.
]]> Liars (Licking Thicket, #2) 55619027 Parrish Partridge’s True Facts:

There’s nothing hotter than a tall, gruff, bewildered, tattooed mountain of a man cuddling a sweet, orphaned baby, so you can tell yourself that you’ll resist him...

But that’s a lie.

And when that man asks you to do him a favor and pretend to be his very temporary, very fake fiance to help him get custody of that adorable baby, you can pretend you know better than to say yes�

But that’s a lie, too.

And when you actually get to know your kind, strong, pullet-loving prince of a fiance, and all his crazy, lovable, meddling neighbors, you can tell yourself you’re not really falling for Diesel Church and the town of Licking Thicket�

But that might be the biggest lie of all.
]]> 330 Lucy Lennox Amanda 5 4.27 2020 Liars (Licking Thicket, #2)
author: Lucy Lennox
name: Amanda
average rating: 4.27
book published: 2020
rating: 5
read at: 2024/02/26
date added: 2024/02/26
shelves: 2020-favorites, arcs, awkward-mc, contemporary, fake-relationship, favorite-authors, fluffy, found-family, friends-to-lovers, funny, m-m, opposites-attract, series, small-town, standalone, sweet, rural
review:
So I liked the first book in this series but I LOVED this one. I never highlight quotes when I’m reading, but from like page three in this one my finger couldn’t help itself, as I just knew I’d want to revisit some favorites; and the whole book continued in the same vein. But while this book was funny, it was so much more as we definitely got to see the relationship develop and it was absolutely beautiful and emotional. (Did I cry at one point? Yes, yes I did and I’m not ashamed). I just absolutely loved kind of awkward, always talking to himself, full of love Parrish; and I just absolutely adored big tattooed but sweet cinnamon roll, not ever realizing his amazing self worth, Diesel and just thought they were perfect for each other and for baby Marigold. Licking Thicket was just as crazy as always, but it’s such an utterly charming town and the people in it really do pull out all the stops for their own (I grew up in a small town and it was NOT like this-except for the cows- and I want a redo). So there you have it, I laughed, I cried, I fell in love with fictional chickens! And I highly highly recommend this book.
]]> Smash & Grab (RELIC #1) 54500501
Don't get me wrong -- I love what I do with a passion, but it doesn't leave a lot of time for much else.

Especially romance.

While chipping away at my work, I'm suddenly the person between hired cartel muscle and the fossil that will define my career.

Which isn't the most insane part of the story.

My savior is a chaotic, bat-wielding punk with a bubble gum pink mohawk and a killer smile.

In a mad dash to escape the thieves, my knight in studded armor sweeps me across the country while hitting every tourist trap along the way.

While smuggling a fossil, might I add.

Oh, and did I mention this pink punk can shift into a dinosaur?]]> 190 Maz Maddox Amanda 4 4.14 2020 Smash & Grab (RELIC #1)
author: Maz Maddox
name: Amanda
average rating: 4.14
book published: 2020
rating: 4
read at: 2024/02/10
date added: 2024/02/10
shelves: arcs, contemporary, fantasy-paranormal, first-time, fluffy, found-family, funny, gfy-bfy-ofy, m-m, nerds, opposites-attract, series, shifters, standalone, uno24
review:
Did I know I needed a dinosaur shifter book in my life? No, but now I wish there were a million more because this book lit a fire in me. It was just so good! Take a badass (but secretly just a cinnamon roll sweet), baseball bat wielding, Mohawk donning, utahraptor shifter and send him on the run from the cartel with a geeky, dust covered, straight-lite, paleontologist and you’ve got a match made in heaven. There was so much sass, a good deal of sweet tender moments, and did I mention DINOSAURS. Completely recommend and ’t wait for the rest of the series
]]> <![CDATA[Unnatural (The Wrong Alpha, #1)]]> 53929063 A planet at war. Two alphas forced into a political marriage. Attraction that defies all reason and logic� Or does it?

The Kingdom of Pelugia and the Republic of Kadar have been at war for decades. Peace isn’t popular, but the planet ’t survive without it.

Forced to marry an enemy prince for the sake of peace, Senator Royce Cleghorn doesn’t like his husband, his alpha scent, or his damned pretty blue eyes. More than anything, Royce hates what Haydn makes him become: a primitive alpha cliché who’ll do anything to mark his territory, even if that territory is his alpha husband. Royce likes omegas; he isn’t into alphas, no matter how pretty their eyes are. It’s just a weird territorial instinct. It has to be.

Prince Haydn has always tried to be the perfect alpha his father wants him to be. He's the heir to the throne. He's a war general. He isn't supposed to bare his throat to an enemy alpha—and it isn't supposed to feel so good. Everyone knows a marriage between two alphas is a recipe for disaster. He isn't supposed to crave his husband—their marriage is just a political arrangement, nothing more.

But when disaster strikes and loyalties are tested, which bond will be the strongest: their marriage, or their allegiances?

This book is set in an omegaverse world similar to contemporary Earth, and it contains explicit content, mating cycles, scenting, knotting, and two men obsessed with each other. While mpreg exists in this world, it’s only mentioned and doesn’t appear on-page.]]> 201 Alessandra Hazard Amanda 4 4.14 2020 Unnatural (The Wrong Alpha, #1)
author: Alessandra Hazard
name: Amanda
average rating: 4.14
book published: 2020
rating: 4
read at: 2024/01/29
date added: 2024/01/29
shelves: arcs, enemies-to-lovers, fake-relationship, fantasy-paranormal, m-m, omegaverse, royalty, series
review:
This one was so good! Set in the same general world as the Calluvia’s Royalty series (some overlapping governmental bodies and character), but with new dynamics (ABO if that’s not your thing), it’s a fresh take but with all of the things I’ve come to expect and love from a Hazzard fantasy world. There was really wonderful worldbuilding, some things were definitely left open, but if you’ve read Hazzard’s Calluvia series you’ll know the stories will overlap and there will be explanations throughout the entire series. There was lots of growly alpha posturing that I personally love, but some unexpectedly sweet moments as well (one of the last scenes with the MCs in bed comes to mind). That’s not to say there isn’t steam, because lord, this book was on fire at times. I could’ve done without the MFM scene, so just a heads up that that’s there; but overall it was a book I thoroughly enjoyed and couldn’t put down.
]]> <![CDATA[The Hound of the Burgervilles (Quest Investigations, #2)]]> 58878582 This case is really going to the dogs�

After I try a little off-the-books interrogation to locate my selkie almost-boyfriend’s nearly-ex-husband (don’t ask, it’s complicated), I’m in the doghouse again with my bosses, who bust me back to surveillance. Ugh. So when another human inexplicably storms into Quest Investigations—something our security spells ought to prevent since I’m supposed to be the only human admitted to our offices—I’m reduced to staking out local fast food restaurants to check out the guy’s alleged sighting of a giant, glowing-eyed, dumpster-diving spectral hound.

Ridiculous, right? Humiliating, too, not to mention boring. But at least they didn’t fire me.

Imagine my surprise when there actually is a giant, glowing-eyed, dumpster-diving spectral hound—one of the Cwn Annwn, Herne the Hunter’s traitor-tracking dog pack, to be exact. Jeez, who let this dog out? It’s my case, though, so it’s up to me—Matt Steinitz, aka Hugh Mann—to return him to Faerie. But while Herne’s normally hopping kennels are inexplicably unpopulated by pups, they’re playing host to one extremely dead body.

Uh oh. Looks like someone’s bite was a lot worse than their bark.

Guess my love life will have to take a back seat again while we nose out the truth.

Dammit.

The Hound of the Burgervilles is the second in the Quest Investigations M/M mystery series, a spinoff of E.J. Russell’s Mythmatched paranormal rom-com story world. It contains no on-page sex or violence, and although there is a romantic subplot, it is not a romance. The series is best read in order.]]> 228 E.J. Russell 1947033344 Amanda 4 4.26 2021 The Hound of the Burgervilles (Quest Investigations, #2)
author: E.J. Russell
name: Amanda
average rating: 4.26
book published: 2021
rating: 4
read at: 2024/01/22
date added: 2024/01/22
shelves: arcs, fantasy-paranormal, favorite-authors, found-family, funny, m-m, mm-romance, opposites-attract, released-in-2021, romance, series, slow-burn, sweet, mystery, red-cover, wheel2022
review:
This series is just so enjoyable! The romance is soooo slow burn, the feeling are there but the relationship has gotten stuck before it really gets going, but I think this time is necessary for Matt/Hugh to figure out some really important things. It also is just laying the groundwork for a really great relationship in the future! Matt has a lot going on in this one, and I just really love seeing him become more secure in his place in the supe world, while solving kind of kooky mysteries! With lots of cameos from past series/books, this story is fun from start to finish
]]> <![CDATA[Hostile Takeover (Hostile Takeover #1)]]> 58229111
One hot moment in a hidden storage closet. One kiss. No consequences.

But if you get that close to a man with fire in his eyes, you’re gonna get burned, and I was no exception. One taste of Grey Blackwood ruined me for life.

The way Grey sees it, I was the one who did the ruining. I humiliated him. Wrecked his life. Destroyed his future.

Doesn’t matter that he’s clawed his way back and then some. Doesn’t matter that he’s already top of the Wall Street food chain. The man’s ruthless. Heartless. And he likes his revenge served cold.

Now he’s taking down the companies owned by every frat boy who did him wrong. And when he comes for my family’s company, the quiet life I’ve built for myself far away from Manhattan comes crumbling down, too.

But when Grey’s standing in our boardroom, threatening a hostile takeover and demanding I negotiate on behalf of my family, I don’t see an enemy. I see the chance I’ve been waiting for.

The chance for another night in his arms, and hopefully a whole lot more.

Let the negotiations begin.

Hostile Takeover is a full-length, standalone novel.

]]> 304 Lucy Lennox 1954857063 Amanda 4 4.31 2021 Hostile Takeover (Hostile Takeover #1)
author: Lucy Lennox
name: Amanda
average rating: 4.31
book published: 2021
rating: 4
read at: 2024/01/15
date added: 2024/01/15
shelves: arcs, boss-employee, contemporary, enemies-to-lovers, fake-relationship, favorite-authors, first-time, funny, m-m, mm-romance, opposites-attract, released-in-2021, romance, second-chance, standalone, steamy
review:
This had all the hallmarks of a great Lucy story and more! It was funny, sweet, and extremely steamy. Enemies to lovers is so hit or miss for me, as I either don't believe the "enemies" part, or I don't believe the turn to more, but both here worked so perfectly. Grey definitely carried a grudge against Ellison and everything he represented, and it was more of a slow burn than Lucy usually delivers as they made there way from enemies to so much more. Wonderful characters, snarky banter, and a perfect second chance story. Lucy has done it again.
]]> <![CDATA[The Barony Bet (Imperial Space Regency, #2)]]> 53029438 A wager he ’t lose...

Lord Deva lives a charmed life. As the son and heir of one of the Empire’s wealthiest lords, Deva’s biggest problem is protecting his younger siblings from their father’s wrath. But when Deva’s actions place him on the verge of disinheritance, his only hope is an insurmountable task.

Dragging his best friend, Asta, into the fray, Deva agrees to revitalize his father’s newest acquisition - a barony on the verge of ruin. Little does he know that undertaking this task will put more than his inheritance on the line, but his heart as well.

A gamble he ’t win...

Asta is about to depart on a two year deep space trading expedition with one purpose: to fall out of love with his closest friend. Deva has no knowledge of the depths of Asta’s feelings and Asta hopes the distance will allow him to move on from the desire for more than friendship.

Agreeing to one last adventure to help Deva win his impossible task, Asta finds himself thrown into the role of protector and fake fiancé of his best friend. With an estate in ruin at the hands of a corrupt mistress, Asta and Deva must become even closer to win their bet and will place their friendship at risk in the process.

The Barony Bet is a 90,000 word mm regency romance set in space. It is a fake relationship, friends to lovers romance with a HEA.

]]> 331 Kai Butler Amanda 5
In this story we had best friends, and proficient gamblers, Bonre and Naim, working together to fix up an old manor filled with some truly terrible people, all while falling desperately in love with one another. (Well, Bonre was already in love, but unrequited love is sad so we will brush over that). It was surprisingly funny, these two bantered back and forth amazingly, sweet, tender, and at times full of adventure. I truly hope this isn’t the end of the series, because I really want to read more. ]]> 4.23 2020 The Barony Bet (Imperial Space Regency, #2)
author: Kai Butler
name: Amanda
average rating: 4.23
book published: 2020
rating: 5
read at: 2020/09/30
date added: 2024/01/13
shelves: 2020-favorites, arcs, fake-relationship, first-time, friends-to-lovers, historical, m-m, opposites-attract, scifi, series, standalone, sweet, green-cover
review:
4.5 stars! This is one of those authors/series that I’m so glad to have stumbled upon because I’m absolutely enthralled with it. It’s been quite some time since I’ve read the first book, but each book stands alone so I was perfectly fine immediately jumping into this one. Again, I have to reiterate just how flipping cool it is to read a regency novel set in space. I’m sure there are other books like it, but this series was my introduction to that really interesting interplay of almost historical ideas/people set in a futuristic world.

In this story we had best friends, and proficient gamblers, Bonre and Naim, working together to fix up an old manor filled with some truly terrible people, all while falling desperately in love with one another. (Well, Bonre was already in love, but unrequited love is sad so we will brush over that). It was surprisingly funny, these two bantered back and forth amazingly, sweet, tender, and at times full of adventure. I truly hope this isn’t the end of the series, because I really want to read more.
]]> <![CDATA[The Quiet House (Black and Blue #2)]]> 57437366
Blue Billings is finally ready to throw off the memories of his past and move in with the person who means the most in the world to him. His psychic abilities have grown in the last year to his mentor Tom's consternation, but Blue is determined to look on the bright side. He’s also focused on ignoring all the warning signs that he’s received lately.

However, even deeply buried secrets have a way of rising to the surface. And when a surprise from Blue’s past turns up and draws them away to a lonely house on the Yorkshire moors, Levi and Blue must fight for their survival once again.

From bestselling author, Lily Morton, comes the second book in the Black & Blue series. The books are intended to be read in order.]]> 256 Lily Morton Amanda 5 4.37 2021 The Quiet House (Black and Blue #2)
author: Lily Morton
name: Amanda
average rating: 4.37
book published: 2021
rating: 5
read at: 2023/12/27
date added: 2023/12/28
shelves: 2021-favorites, arcs, established-couple, fantasy-paranormal, favorite-authors, favorite-series, found-family, funny, ghosts, m-m, mm-romance, mystery, opposites-attract, released-in-2021, romance, series, spooky, suspense, uno-2020, you-sound-like-youre-from-london
review:
It’s been about fifteen minutes since I finished and probably taken that entire time for my heart to stop pounding. This book was epically good. Morton is affectionately known as the queen of snark and while she still holds the title with this book, we also continue to see another side of her that just truly showcases what a phenomenal author she is. I mean, I was able to go from cracking up one minute, to literally biting my nails the next, and back so quickly it should’ve given me whiplash but it just worked so dang well. Levi and Blue are one of the greatest couples ever, their love shines through even when they are individually feeling insecure, and they are just so strong together. This book was even creepier than the first, with lots of anxiety inducing scary movie esque moments, and I loved every minute of it. Humor, scares, love, the best grumpy mentor ever, this book truly has it all and I dearly hope it isn’t the last in the series. (Also desperately need Will and Jem to get a story!)
]]> <![CDATA[Hijacked (Licking Thicket: Horn of Glory #1)]]> 57117607
Things he ’t control this time around:

� His meddling grandfather

� His annoying gamer cousin

� Buggy South American jungles

� Being the meat in a feuding cartel sandwich

� Getting kidnapped by a monologuing drug lord

•Falling for the very hot, very mouthy ex-soldier from his past

In short, Carter’s peaceful, well-planned life has been� hijacked.]]> 324 Lucy Lennox Amanda 4 4.07 2021 Hijacked (Licking Thicket: Horn of Glory #1)
author: Lucy Lennox
name: Amanda
average rating: 4.07
book published: 2021
rating: 4
read at: 2023/12/21
date added: 2023/12/21
shelves: arcs, contemporary, favorite-authors, funny, m-m, military, mm-romance, opposites-attract, profession-medical, released-in-2021, romance, series, standalone
review:
I started this book a little nervous for what was going to happen, I was worried that we were going to get more of a suspenseful action novel which is not what I expect from these two authors. Alas, I should have never feared because when these two team up, I always end up having a wildly good time. While I guess you could say there was suspense, it was at its heart a lighthearted fun romantic comedy I've come to expect from this duo. It had lots of laughs, great steam, the most amazing characters, and a romance I was completely rooting for. Was it ridiculous? Yes, of course it was; if you've read the Licking Thicket series you know EXACTLY what your in for (the answer is always puns, and I LOVE puns). Will I do everything I can to get my grabby hands on the rest of the series? Yes, of course I will, when Archer and Lennox joins forces it's guaranteed to end up being one of my favorite series. Can't wait to see what happens next!
]]> <![CDATA[Pinot & Pineapple Lumps (Southern Lights #4)]]> 57063819
We shared a single kiss over a year ago, and I can still remember every toe-curling second of it. He thought I was too young for him. I thought he was running scared. But that kiss was the first time I’d felt alive in a long time, and I’ve been chasing the feeling ever since—doing my research, a lot of research, a lot of men. Something my protective older brother isn’t too happy about.

I’ve been through more than most guys my age, and I still bear the scars. My head’s not always my best friend, but I’m building a life, PTSD be damned. I ’t turn back the clock, and I’m not sure I want to.

Except maybe to that moment when Penn kissed me. I mean, the odds of us ever meeting again were slim to none, right?

Yeah, about that.

But this time I’m ready. I’m a year older, an ocean of therapy wiser, and I know exactly what I want.


Possible Triggers: One of the main characters in this book lives with PTSD as a result of a fire and within the story there are flashbacks and descriptions of triggering events. There are also themes of loss and grief.]]> 334 Jay Hogan 0995132593 Amanda 4 4.23 2021 Pinot & Pineapple Lumps (Southern Lights #4)
author: Jay Hogan
name: Amanda
average rating: 4.23
book published: 2021
rating: 4
read at: 2023/12/18
date added: 2023/12/19
shelves: age-gap, arcs, contemporary, friends-to-lovers, funny, hurt-comfort, m-m, mental-health-illness, mm-romance, released-in-2021, romance, series, standalone, sweet, steamy
review:
I have been waiting for Kurt's story and it definitely didn't disappoint. I think what I loved best of this book is that even though we've seen Kurt go through so much, he's still snarky, snappy, and hilarious. I adored him more than I thought possible, and though Penn was his perfect match. These two were somewhat goofy, full of love, and just an absolute joy to read about. As always, Hogan provided such a beautiful backdrop to her stories and it made me want to go on a wine tour of Otago (even though I don't even really drink!). There was definitely some tough topics covered, but I thought they were covered beautifully and left me with so many emotions. A perfect edition to an amazing series.
]]> <![CDATA[Sorcerers Always Satisfy (Hidden Species, #4)]]> 57906420 Just because I enjoy planning and researching doesn’t mean I’m not the most dangerous badass mothercracker around.

The world sees me as boring, dependable David. And I like it that way. I know things and I’m organized. Plus, I’ve seen firsthand the harm a chaotic life can inflict, and I’d rather have my lists and be called dull.

Which is what makes it all the more disconcerting when a sexy elf declares his adoration and begins to “woo� me. What am I supposed to do?

Hide, mostly. It’s hard, though, because Caolan and I are supposed to be working together. And he’s tough to resist: sweet, competent, and so incredibly beautiful. He sees something in me that no one else does. Would it really be such a bad thing if I gave in to temptation?

My personal life ’t be the priority right now, though. The bad guys are gearing up to strike, and if we don’t stop them, the end of the world could be nigh. I need to focus on that, not on letting Caolan show me the benefits of spontaneity. Or do I?]]> 284 Louisa Masters Amanda 5
Outside of the romance, the action is finally coming to a head and it was perfectly balanced. There were plenty of funny and fun downtime’s with the whole team, and plenty of action and fighting to keep you on your toes. I really enjoyed the way everything wrapped up in the end, and quite liked the big shake up that occurred. I am kinda tragically sad that the series has ended but will be first in line to read the spinoff series starting with Percy’s book!]]> 4.26 2021 Sorcerers Always Satisfy (Hidden Species, #4)
author: Louisa Masters
name: Amanda
average rating: 4.26
book published: 2021
rating: 5
read at: 2023/12/01
date added: 2023/12/02
shelves: 2021-favorites, arcs, fantasy-paranormal, favorite-authors, favorite-series, found-family, friends-to-lovers, funny, instalove, m-m, magic-witches-wizards, mm-romance, opposites-attract, released-in-2021, romance, series, shifters, sweet, wheel23
review:
This has become one of my absolute favorite series and this book specifically is one of my favorites of the bunch (has to be a tie with book 1 though for the epicness that is Sam!) David has kind of been an enigma since the very beginning of this series, he’s straight laced, a stickler for the rules, and a workaholic. That was pretty much all we saw of him which might make some people think he was boring but just left me intrigued to see the man behind all this! And his story was perfect, he’s badass, has reasons for being the way he is, and kind of desperately needs to be loved. And Caolan was so perfect for that loving! He’s my absolute favorite type of character adorably naive yet competent, awestruck, cute and quirky. He was perfect for David and while them coming together couldn’t have come at a worse time it worked out so well!

Outside of the romance, the action is finally coming to a head and it was perfectly balanced. There were plenty of funny and fun downtime’s with the whole team, and plenty of action and fighting to keep you on your toes. I really enjoyed the way everything wrapped up in the end, and quite liked the big shake up that occurred. I am kinda tragically sad that the series has ended but will be first in line to read the spinoff series starting with Percy’s book!
]]> <![CDATA[Hijinks With a Hellhound (Hidden Species #3)]]> 56476386 I’m a one-and-done kind of hellhound� I don’t catch feeeeeeeelings�

Once upon a time, my first and last relationship taught me that romantic love isn’t enough to stop your boyfriend from trying to kill you. Been there, done that, got the T-shirt. My awesomeness is now strictly reserved for one-nighters and casual hookups. Sure, my friends seem to be matching up in romantic bliss, but screw that—I’m not interested.

Besides, things are heating up at the Community of Species Government, and I’m right in the thick of it all. Those bad guys are going down—and not in the good way. They might seem to have the drop on us right now, but we’re going to turn the tables on them. Even if it means going on a mission with Aidan Byrne.

I’m still not happy about the way Aidan handled things with my bestest bestie a few months back, even if he did turn out to be right. Plus, there’s something about him that rubs my fur in the wrong direction. He’s the kind of guy who thinks karaoke is only for college kids and looks down on me for licking my own balls. He also thinks that just because he’s the species leader, he’s in charge.

Too bad for him, I’ve never backed away from a challenge� even if it is unnervingly sexy and really bendy. A hookup won’t lead to feelings� right?]]> 251 Louisa Masters Amanda 5 4.15 2021 Hijinks With a Hellhound (Hidden Species #3)
author: Louisa Masters
name: Amanda
average rating: 4.15
book published: 2021
rating: 5
read at: 2023/12/01
date added: 2023/12/01
shelves: 2021-favorites, arcs, fantasy-paranormal, favorite-authors, favorite-series, fluffy, funny, m-m, magic-witches-wizards, mm-romance, released-in-2021, romance, series, shifters, suspense, wheel23
review:
This is going to definitely be tied with the first book for my favorite of the series. Alistair was just absolutely one of the best characters of the series. He was sweet, hilarious, and oh so quirky (although he will deny this forever); but when it came down to it he got whatever he needed to get done done in a very efficient way. And Aiden was sweet and lovely, and just a perfect match for the kind of all over the place Allister. On top of these wonderful characters and their budding romance, we got more plot development and this world that Masters is building is becoming even more intriguing. Once again, Masters set up the next relationship and made sure it was one I'm dying to read! If for some reason you still haven't picked up this series, what are you waiting for?!
]]> <![CDATA[Finch (Forbidden Desires Spin-off, #3)]]> 55421687 If only Finch were a Disgrace, but alas. Some things simply aren’t meant to be.

Sensible and straightforward Finch has served as Hugh Drake’s secretary for over a decade, and secretly loved him for just as long. Hugh is the light of his life, but he’s also entirely too gullible, which is why Finch refuses to believe his claim that Disgraces are dragons. They’re not. Finch would know, since he is one. But that little fact will have to stay a secret, because Finch would rather his love go unnoticed than be the one who breaks his dragon’s heart when he fails to produce a clutch.

Finch is an 80,000 word hilarious omegaverse mpreg-ish romance set following the events of the Forbidden Desires series. It contains an adorably clueless dragon, a faithful secretary whose heart is invested in more than just his job, the best Funfetti cake ever, “slippery� situations, and a single amethyst cufflink. For maximum enjoyment, Finch is best read following the events of Clutch, Bond, Mate, Swallow, and Magpie.]]> 286 Piper Scott Amanda 5 4.26 2020 Finch (Forbidden Desires Spin-off, #3)
author: Piper Scott
name: Amanda
average rating: 4.26
book published: 2020
rating: 5
read at: 2023/11/12
date added: 2023/11/12
shelves: 2020-favorites, arcs, awkward-mc, dragons, fantasy-paranormal, fated-mates, favorite-authors, favorite-series, first-time, fluffy, found-family, friends-to-lovers, funny, m-m, mpreg, omegaverse, opposites-attract, series, shifters, standalone, sweet, uno2022, wheel23
review:
This book was AMAZING. Probably tied with Bond for the best book in this universe, and definitely the best book within this spin off series. I just absolutely adored Finch and Hugh. Finch was so put together on the outside, but yearning for so much more, especially his alpha dragon boss. And Hugh, sweet, naive, adorable Hugh wanted a family so bad and didn’t even realize when his family was right in front of him. I am genuinely sad I finished this story, as I would do anything to be able to still be reading it. It’s funny, fluffy, sweet, sexy, literally everything you need in a book.
]]> <![CDATA[Magpie (Forbidden Desires Spin-Off, #2)]]> 52270477
Diamond Disgrace Misha Vasiliev has a secret. By day he learns what it takes to warm a dragon’s bed, but at night he’s Magpie, renowned hacker and dark web service provider who steals from dragons in his spare time. His favorite target? Reynard Drake, whom he's only ever seen in pictures, but whom Misha wants more than anyone else.

And now, with a faceless threat closing in on his cloister, quite possibly the only one capable of saving his life.

Magpie is a 64,000 word steamy omegaverse mpreg-ish romance set during the events of the Forbidden Desires series. It contains pretty things hidden where the sun don’t shine; a scandalous screenshot or two; plenty of laughs; its fair share of tense moments; and, of course, “Beagle!� For maximum enjoyment, Magpie is best read as a companion piece to the Forbidden Desires series.]]> 250 Piper Scott Amanda 5 4.09 2020 Magpie (Forbidden Desires Spin-Off, #2)
author: Piper Scott
name: Amanda
average rating: 4.09
book published: 2020
rating: 5
read at: 2023/11/11
date added: 2023/11/11
shelves: arcs, dragons, fantasy-paranormal, fated-mates, favorite-authors, favorite-series, m-m, manties, mpreg, omegaverse, series, shifters, wheel23
review:
Another wonderful addition to the amazing world Piper Scott and Virginia Kelly have created. This book has everything I’ve come to expect from this series, there’s plenty of humor, tons of love, and of course, absolutely magnificent dragons. On top of all that, this one had a lot of edge of your seat excitement and tension, and what felt like a lot more heart stopping moments. This is one of my favorite series, and this installment was no exception.
]]> Coddiwomple 57720934
After an unstable childhood, Cameron Foster loves small-town life. He has everything he needs in his vet practice, his friends, and his animals. Despite what numerous exes seem to think, he’s not still in love with Journey. And so what if they add “benefits� to their friendship? As long as he keeps his heart out of the equation, everything should be fine.

Too bad Journey's not onboard with that plan. With summer ending, he has to convince Cameron that this is more than just a fling. This time around, he knows what he wants. He wants a second chance. He wants forever. Most of all, he wants Cameron’s heart.

Journey may have put away his passport, but things are just getting interesting.]]> 296 S.E. Harmon Amanda 4 4.21 2021 Coddiwomple
author: S.E. Harmon
name: Amanda
average rating: 4.21
book published: 2021
rating: 4
read at: 2023/10/15
date added: 2023/10/15
shelves: arcs, contemporary, favorite-authors, fluffy, friends-to-lovers, funny, m-m, mm-romance, released-in-2021, romance, second-chance, small-town, standalone, trip, uno-2020, wheel23
review:
Definitely the winner for most creative title of the year, and a wonderful story to go along with it. If you’re a fan of Harmons Spectral Files series, you’re well aware of what you can expect with this book (and what it delivers on completely). There’s absolutely amazing humorous, snarky banter, extremely loveable MCs, and some truly steamy scenes (although I was a little disappointed that Harmon chose to give less detail a couple of times with this one). If you’ve ever wondered what Danny and Rain would be like without ghosts, look no further! Set in a typical storybook small town, with plenty of nosy neighbors, this book is a truly great second chance story with characters you absolutely will fall in love with.
]]> <![CDATA[Hope (Wolves of Walker County, #2)]]> 50031726
Until he meets Phineas.

Phineas is a nerd through and through. Not just a nerd, but as far as Nash is concerned, an angry one. All of the traits that normally make men fall at Nash’s feet have no effect on Phineas, and though his head tells him there are plenty of fish in the sea, Nash’s wolf only wants him. There’s a sadness in Phineas that calls to Nash.

Phineas is used to being invisible. No one cares when he walks into a room and he prefers it that way. People in his life have a habit of getting hurt so he lives alone. All his friends are online where they can be safe from his curse. His touch heals, but not without making sure a price is paid. But when Phineas has a problem he asks Nash—the insanely gorgeous fireman who is everywhere Phineas turns—for help. He might as well learn what he can before Nash comes to his senses.

Meanwhile, a serial arsonist is targeting buildings in Walker County, particularly on pack lands. As much as Nash hates the idea of helping the wolf pack that he once called his, he must do his job. When the danger spills to the other side of the island, particularly at his human’s door, Nash knows he must find the culprit or he might not ever have a chance to truly claim his mate.

Hope is the second book in the Wolves of Walker County with steam, humor, magic, and intrigue as well as a second surprise pregnancy that will continue to change everything. For maximum enjoyment, this quartet should be read in order.]]> 370 Kiki Burrelli Amanda 4 4.17 Hope (Wolves of Walker County, #2)
author: Kiki Burrelli
name: Amanda
average rating: 4.17
book published:
rating: 4
read at: 2023/08/06
date added: 2023/08/07
shelves: arcs, fantasy-paranormal, fated-mates, favorite-authors, m-m, mpreg, omegaverse, series, shifters, uno2022
review:
I was really looking forward to getting one of the twins stories (although I reaaaally want Wyatt lol) and Nash’s story didn’t disappoint! But honestly, Phineas stole the show for me. Probably because I saw myself in him, he’s nerdy and not very social, and peopling is so hard. Nash was great too, especially once he got past his ego and realized he had the dreaded feelings. I’m really enjoying this series, and I feel myself constantly trying to figure out where it’s all leading with the Pack politics (I just want to get inside Nanas head to figure it all out dang it!). This book was a great blend of meet cute, arguing (but like in the way people do when their obviously attracted to each other), arson!, hot sexy times, and more mystic mates powers that has me continuously hooked on this series.
]]> <![CDATA[Knight and Day (Magic Emporium)]]> 56564070
Until one day, real life starts to look a lot like his imaginary world. . . and the fate of an entire kingdom rests on his shoulders. The world is more magical than he ever thought, and he will have to learn to accept the impossible as possible, if he and Samuel are to succeed.

Samuel Day had never journeyed to the human realm, and he sure didn't mean to get stuck there. That said, he’s found it all incredibly fascinating. Especially Theodore, the adorable human who holds a piece of the puzzle necessary to stop an evil immortal and save the magic realm known as Evorea. His loyalty is to his king, but it doesn’t take long for Theodore to become equally important.

They come from different realms and are as different as night and day, but together they have everything they need to save Evorea from ruin. They just have to find their way back there.

Knight and Day is part of the Magic Emporium Series. Each book stands alone, but each one features an appearance by Marden’s Magic Emporium, a shop that can appear anywhere, but only once and only when someone’s in dire need. This book contains a magic realm, a handsome guardian, one clueless human, and a guaranteed HEA.]]> 140 Jacki James Amanda 4
A delightful introduction (for me, I don't know which book is slotted to release first), to a new shared universe featuring a magical shop that shows up when you need something, even if you don't know you need it! This was a very sweet, practically zero angst introduction into the world. I liked both Theodore and Samuel quite a bit, and thought they worked well together. The magical world of both an alternate universe and the unseen in the world we know was interesting and so well done. I was definitely hooked the entire time. My only issue was it was a little too angst free for me. Most of the book is the two MC's just walking around town together, or sitting on the couch watching tv, and I really wanted them to get into more action. It was still cute seeing Samuel learn about the human world, and Theodore get his eyes opened to a world he thought only existed in his fantasy books, and I'm looking forward to seeing how other authors spin their tales with this well crafted concept.]]> 3.65 2021 Knight and Day (Magic Emporium)
author: Jacki James
name: Amanda
average rating: 3.65
book published: 2021
rating: 4
read at: 2023/07/31
date added: 2023/07/31
shelves: arcs, fantasy-paranormal, fluffy, instalove, m-m, multi-author-series, opposites-attract, released-in-2021, romance, standalone, sweet, tower2023
review:
3.5 stars

A delightful introduction (for me, I don't know which book is slotted to release first), to a new shared universe featuring a magical shop that shows up when you need something, even if you don't know you need it! This was a very sweet, practically zero angst introduction into the world. I liked both Theodore and Samuel quite a bit, and thought they worked well together. The magical world of both an alternate universe and the unseen in the world we know was interesting and so well done. I was definitely hooked the entire time. My only issue was it was a little too angst free for me. Most of the book is the two MC's just walking around town together, or sitting on the couch watching tv, and I really wanted them to get into more action. It was still cute seeing Samuel learn about the human world, and Theodore get his eyes opened to a world he thought only existed in his fantasy books, and I'm looking forward to seeing how other authors spin their tales with this well crafted concept.
]]> <![CDATA[The Prince's Dragon (Fire and Valor #2)]]> 53509157
The boy ascends to rule a kingdom in chaos, and Tristram must undo the damage of the last king's reign to save his people from lean winter and wolves in the palace itself. Reynold’s former shadow, Bet Kyston, is determined to root out King Roland's enemies, but his version of help may cause as much harm as good.

There remains a traitor near to the throne, and when the king falls mysteriously ill, Tristram’s strongest ally is forced to leave court. As his enemies move closer, the strength of Tristram's regency is more precarious than ever. Abandoned and friendless, Tristram must sacrifice everything to protect his homeland or risk not only Roland’s life, but his own.]]> 351 W.M. Fawkes Amanda 5 4.31 2020 The Prince's Dragon (Fire and Valor #2)
author: W.M. Fawkes
name: Amanda
average rating: 4.31
book published: 2020
rating: 5
read at: 2023/06/05
date added: 2023/06/10
shelves: 2020-favorites, arcs, dragons, enemies-to-lovers, fantasy-paranormal, favorite-authors, favorite-series, m-m, magic-witches-wizards, series, shifters, slow-burn, war, watch-out-for-that-cliffhanger, rural, pirates-2021, tower2023
review:
This series is mind blowingly (yeah, I’m making up words) good. So many different storylines, but so beautifully interwoven. I have no favorites and that completely shocks me. I want all the stories, and I want them now. This world that has been created completely sucks you in, and I am so sad I will have to wait for the next installment. I’m pretty sure I could read this series forever, so I hope the next book isn’t the end. Dragons, elves, mages, political intrigue, suspense, some seriously sexy times, it all comes together to create a series that has become an instant favorite of mine.
]]> <![CDATA[The King's Dragon (Fire and Valor #1)]]> 51567132
When the old king dies and Prince Reynold takes the throne, two visitors from the north throw Tristram into the middle of the ancient conflict between dragons and men. They put him on a collision course with the king’s shadow, Bet Kyston, a dangerous assassin who may want him dead or may want more of Tristram that he’d ever thought to give.

With the eyes of dragons upon him and a threat from the north creeping toward the home he loves, Tristram must weigh his allegiances before his dual legacies tear him apart.]]> 295 W.M. Fawkes Amanda 5 3.99 2019 The King's Dragon (Fire and Valor #1)
author: W.M. Fawkes
name: Amanda
average rating: 3.99
book published: 2019
rating: 5
read at: 2023/04/25
date added: 2023/04/25
shelves: 2020-favorites, arcs, dragons, enemies-to-lovers, fantasy-paranormal, favorite-authors, first-time, m-m, magic-witches-wizards, series, shifters, slow-burn, rural, uno2023
review:
I cannot get over how absolutely blown away I was by this story. It’s romance light, but not absent, there’s a nice slow burn hate and lust filled attraction that pulled me in and delivered on promises with a fair amount of heat. But even without that, I think I would’ve loved this one for the amazing storytelling and wonderful world building alone. There’s a lot of POVs, and while I thought I would hate it, it honestly just made me that more into it and furiously reading through trying to find out what happens next. I am SO glad I have the next one already available, as I ’t imagine leaving this world yet.
]]> <![CDATA[Heart2Heart: A Charity Anthology, Volume 4]]> 54254450 Why should Heart2Heart - the phenomenally successful dating app - only work its magic in the human world when lonely lycans, dejected dragons, and jilted jackalopes need love, too?

In this new paranormal universe, mages and shifters, vampires, psychics, and even humans, will reach out to Heart2Heart podcast host Gene E. Del’Amp for help finding a magical match� and they just might find that talking about their woes helps their wishes come true.

Eighteen of your favorite gay romance authors have come together to bring you brand-new paranormal and urban fantasy stories inspired by reader suggestions!

Once again, all proceeds from this collection will go to the authors� favorite LGBTQ charities, to ensure that love in all its forms will be celebrated and protected every single day of the year!

Titles included in the collection:
A Caller From Grand Rapids, part 1 and 2 by Jeff Adams and Will Knauss
A Caller From Windermere by Charlie Cochet
A Caller From San Francisco by Hailey Turner
A Caller From Springfield by J.D. Light
A Caller From Ottawa by Jenn Burke
A Caller From Portland by Kiki Burrelli
A Caller From New Orleans by Lisa Oliver
A Caller From Knoxville by Macy Blake
A Caller From New York by Maz Maddox
A Caller From Pittsburgh by Morgan Brice
A Caller From Boston by Pandora Pine
A Caller From Chicago by Piper Scott
A Caller From Seattle by Sam Burns and W.M. Fawkes
A Caller From Savannah by Silvia Violet
A Caller From Montreal by S.J. Himes
A Caller From Austin by Susi Hawke]]> 760 Leslie Copeland Amanda 4 Additional reviews reread 2021

A Caller from Windmere by Charlie Cochet
3.5 stars. This was adorable! I do kinda wish [spoilers removed] but I would still definitely read a whole story about these two.

A Caller from San Francisco by Hailey Turner
3.5 stars. I love everything Hailey writes so it was no surprise I enjoyed this one so much. It just felt way too short and I’d love to get a full version

A Caller from Ottawa by Jenn Burke
4 stars. I have such heart eyes for this one. Cool magical explanations and adorable characters. I’d read a whole series set in this world.

A Caller from New Orleans by Lisa Oliver
3 stars. Surface level cute like all the stories have been but I also didn’t really feel like I got to know any of the characters.

A Caller from Knoxville by Macy Blake
The writing was good but this was more erotica than romance. I would’ve loved to see more about what it means to be a forest guardian, rather than what seemed to be a lot of sex in a short story.

A Caller From New York by Maz Maddox
3 stars. I love Maz’s writing, I’m just currently in the mood for stories with more substance and less sex. This was pretty much just one long sex scene.

A Caller from Pittsburgh by Morgan Brice
3.5. Geeks, squirrel shifters, and little love gifts. This was definitely the story for me.

A Caller from Boston by Pandora Pine
2.5 stars. Pine’s writing style very rarely works for me and this one was unfortunately not a win. Very saccharine, and even though I don’t always hate Insta-love it was so extreme here I couldn’t handle it.

A Caller from Chicago by Piper Scott
2.5 stars. I usually live Piper Scott but this was just far too ridiculous for me.

A Caller from Savannah by Silvia Violet
3 stars. Maybe it’s just burnout, but I haven’t been enjoying the stories as much. Still cute, but so surface level.

A Caller from Montreal by SJ Himes
3.5 stars. I love dragon stories. It’s pretty hard to get it wrong with me lol. This was short and sweet and I definitely enjoyed it.

A Caller from Austin by Susi Hawke
3 stars. I usually really enjoy Hawke's work but this was just okay to me. It was a lot of information that really wasn't explained and surface level development


Original Review
I absolutely loved that this time around the Heart2Heart anthology had a paranormal twist! It gave some authors that haven't been showcased before a chance to shine, and I absolutely adored it.
A Caller From Grand Rapids by Jeff Adams and William Knauss
3.5 stars
Very cute, sweet romance. I liked that both men were secretly pining after one another and the way they got up the nerve to do something about it. A great intro and conclusion to the anthology.

A Caller from Seattle by Sam Burns and WM Fawkes
4.5 stars
I absolutely loved this one. A vampire daddy who saves his virgin boy’s life? Sign me up! Adorable with a good deal of steam as well. I would definitely read an entire story on these two (or Robin!)

A Caller from Springfield-JD Light
4.5 stars
JD Light is a go-to for sweet, fluffy fated mates stories with adorably awkward characters. This one fit the bill perfectly, and again, I would love to read more about these two!

A Caller from Portland-Kiki Burrelli
4 stars
So cute! Two werewolves on a search for a pony who meet all kind of magical creatures, what’s not to love! The “road trip� gave a perfect backdrop to get to know the characters well even in such a short story. I’m rooting for these two!

I will definitely review more as I read more, but my overall rating will not change. These stories alone make the book at the very least a 4 star read!]]> 4.35 2020 Heart2Heart: A Charity Anthology, Volume 4
author: Leslie Copeland
name: Amanda
average rating: 4.35
book published: 2020
rating: 4
read at: 2023/04/04
date added: 2023/04/04
shelves: arcs, fantasy-paranormal, fated-mates, favorite-authors, first-time, fluffy, friends-to-lovers, funny, hurt-comfort, illness, instalove, kink, m-m, owned-books, standalone, sweet, urban-fantasy, uno2023
review:
Additional reviews reread 2021

A Caller from Windmere by Charlie Cochet
3.5 stars. This was adorable! I do kinda wish [spoilers removed] but I would still definitely read a whole story about these two.

A Caller from San Francisco by Hailey Turner
3.5 stars. I love everything Hailey writes so it was no surprise I enjoyed this one so much. It just felt way too short and I’d love to get a full version

A Caller from Ottawa by Jenn Burke
4 stars. I have such heart eyes for this one. Cool magical explanations and adorable characters. I’d read a whole series set in this world.

A Caller from New Orleans by Lisa Oliver
3 stars. Surface level cute like all the stories have been but I also didn’t really feel like I got to know any of the characters.

A Caller from Knoxville by Macy Blake
The writing was good but this was more erotica than romance. I would’ve loved to see more about what it means to be a forest guardian, rather than what seemed to be a lot of sex in a short story.

A Caller From New York by Maz Maddox
3 stars. I love Maz’s writing, I’m just currently in the mood for stories with more substance and less sex. This was pretty much just one long sex scene.

A Caller from Pittsburgh by Morgan Brice
3.5. Geeks, squirrel shifters, and little love gifts. This was definitely the story for me.

A Caller from Boston by Pandora Pine
2.5 stars. Pine’s writing style very rarely works for me and this one was unfortunately not a win. Very saccharine, and even though I don’t always hate Insta-love it was so extreme here I couldn’t handle it.

A Caller from Chicago by Piper Scott
2.5 stars. I usually live Piper Scott but this was just far too ridiculous for me.

A Caller from Savannah by Silvia Violet
3 stars. Maybe it’s just burnout, but I haven’t been enjoying the stories as much. Still cute, but so surface level.

A Caller from Montreal by SJ Himes
3.5 stars. I love dragon stories. It’s pretty hard to get it wrong with me lol. This was short and sweet and I definitely enjoyed it.

A Caller from Austin by Susi Hawke
3 stars. I usually really enjoy Hawke's work but this was just okay to me. It was a lot of information that really wasn't explained and surface level development


Original Review
I absolutely loved that this time around the Heart2Heart anthology had a paranormal twist! It gave some authors that haven't been showcased before a chance to shine, and I absolutely adored it.
A Caller From Grand Rapids by Jeff Adams and William Knauss
3.5 stars
Very cute, sweet romance. I liked that both men were secretly pining after one another and the way they got up the nerve to do something about it. A great intro and conclusion to the anthology.

A Caller from Seattle by Sam Burns and WM Fawkes
4.5 stars
I absolutely loved this one. A vampire daddy who saves his virgin boy’s life? Sign me up! Adorable with a good deal of steam as well. I would definitely read an entire story on these two (or Robin!)

A Caller from Springfield-JD Light
4.5 stars
JD Light is a go-to for sweet, fluffy fated mates stories with adorably awkward characters. This one fit the bill perfectly, and again, I would love to read more about these two!

A Caller from Portland-Kiki Burrelli
4 stars
So cute! Two werewolves on a search for a pony who meet all kind of magical creatures, what’s not to love! The “road trip� gave a perfect backdrop to get to know the characters well even in such a short story. I’m rooting for these two!

I will definitely review more as I read more, but my overall rating will not change. These stories alone make the book at the very least a 4 star read!
]]> <![CDATA[Lost and Bound (Mismatched Mates, #4)]]> 58253786 268 Eliot Grayson Amanda 4 4.15 2021 Lost and Bound (Mismatched Mates, #4)
author: Eliot Grayson
name: Amanda
average rating: 4.15
book published: 2021
rating: 4
read at: 2023/03/06
date added: 2023/03/11
shelves: arcs, enemies-to-lovers, fantasy-paranormal, favorite-authors, first-time, injury, m-m, mm-romance, paranormal, pirates-2021, released-in-2021, romance, series, shifters, steamy, uno2023
review:
This book is probably the darkest Eliot’s written, but it’s also the steamiest and I was so there for it. We’ve heard about Jared (Nate’s ex and Ian/Matt’s cousin) in previous books and he did not seem all that great, so it was a wild ride getting in his head. There were so many great reunions that tugged on my heartstrings so dang much, and it’s always just a joy seeing the Armitage pack again. This book is mostly a book about the characters, although we do get to see some background plot development, and in classic Grayson fashion it takes characters you really thought you’d hate, and makes you root for them extremely hard.
]]> Have Me Forever 75859084 Elias Ruiz plays life safe, which means never rocking the boat with his overbearing parents. Enter Noah Baker, famed author, English Professor, and his girlfriend's father. He’s friendly, caring, and always knows how to put people at ease. But Eli’s parents hate Noah, which means he should avoid him at all costs. Eli tries, but soon the Baker house feels like home. It probably doesn’t help that Eli is a huge “Bakehead,� a diehard fan with a crush� on Noah’s written word? But what starts as innocent admiration quickly turns to passionate, reckless fun.
Despite the risk, they keep falling into each other’s bed. It’s a terrible idea. The complications are endless and he’s questioning everything he thought he knew about himself. When feelings get involved, he has to decide if he’s going to deny a part of who he is, or give in to the secret he’s hidden for so long. But what option does Eli have if he wants Noah forever?

Have Me Forever is a bi-awakening MM, ex-girlfriends father, age gap romance with searing heat, no cheating, and a HEA.

This book may be triggering for those with negative coming out experiences. Derogatory language is used against the LGBTQIA+ community by side characters. And, manipulation and negative role expectations set forth by family members are prominent throughout.]]> 386 Ally Blythe Amanda 2 uno2023, arcs
Like I said, not for me, but 2 stars because I can see that there will be people that will like it, and I did keep reading until I finished.]]> 3.68 Have Me Forever
author: Ally Blythe
name: Amanda
average rating: 3.68
book published:
rating: 2
read at: 2023/03/06
date added: 2023/03/06
shelves: uno2023, arcs
review:
Overall this book was just not for me. I've been a fan of this trope in the past, but it didn't work for me here at all. The writing style just didn't mesh with me and I felt there was very little actual character development (and 90% of the side characters were just the most villiain-y characters with no other qualities). There was no real build up to the two MCs wanting each other, Eli is literally picking up his stuff and sad about to his breakup when he comes on to Noah for the first time; and then it went from sex to love in about another second. It just felt like nothing really happened except a cycle of sex and then the MCs being jerks.

Like I said, not for me, but 2 stars because I can see that there will be people that will like it, and I did keep reading until I finished.
]]> <![CDATA[Captured (Star Marked Warriors, #1)]]> 58468202 An alien prince, a threatened throne, and the human mate who can help him save it�

Lucas: Sure, my life isn’t going exactly according to plan—I have a degree that led nowhere, a crappy job as a closing-shift barista, and an ex who has everything I want and got it . . . by dumping my sorry ass—but that doesn’t mean I’m willing to give up on living yet! And holy crap, when I’m plucked off the sidewalk of my rural Colorado town on the very night of my ex’s wedding, I’m pretty damn sure I’m about to lose my life and a whole lot more.

If you’ve never tried flying, I do not recommend the first time be when you’re drunk and alone at two in the morning. But there I was, dumped in a cage on a spacecraft, surrounded by barbarous, giant blue aliens. And the only thing that might keep me safe is there’s one huge, intimidating warrior who ’t keep his eyes off me.

Kaelum: I am the true-born son of the King Xyren the Imperator, but as a Thorzi-human hybrid, my path to the throne of Thorzan is far from clear. My father’s people are enormous and foreboding, their skin is the deep dark of twilight when our planet’s twin stars set. I am not. My enemies think I am small, soft, incapable, and they dog my every step.

If I am to take my rightful place, I must focus on saving my people. But my mother was born on a far-away blue planet called Earth. In my bones, I know the answer to my problems hides out there beyond the stars.

By popular cowriting duo Sam Burns & W.M. Fawkes, Captured is an M/M SciFi alien romance with a warrior prince, a resourceful human at the end of his rope, an intergalactic war that could keep them apart forever, and true love that’s entirely out of this world! This book is first in the Star Marked Warriors series, but each book can be read as standalone.]]> 222 Sam Burns Amanda 4
As always Burns & Fawkes have started to build this really interesting world and while I totally saw the twist coming, I was still so excited and into it when it happened. A great start to what I’m sure will be another winning series.]]> 3.86 2021 Captured (Star Marked Warriors, #1)
author: Sam Burns
name: Amanda
average rating: 3.86
book published: 2021
rating: 4
read at: 2023/02/18
date added: 2023/02/18
shelves: arcs, instalove, m-m, mm-romance, opposites-attract, released-in-2021, romance, royalty, scifi, series, standalone, sweet, uno2023
review:
Another great start to a new series by two of my favorite authors! I loved Lucas from the start, I found his inner dialogue to be witty and fun and he was just a great way to start the book. And sweet cinnamon roll alien warrior Kaelum was just perfect for him and honestly everything I want from my aliens in romance stories.

As always Burns & Fawkes have started to build this really interesting world and while I totally saw the twist coming, I was still so excited and into it when it happened. A great start to what I’m sure will be another winning series.
]]> <![CDATA[Skythane: Liminal Sky (Oberon Cycle, #1)]]> 55613338
Neither knows that Oberon is facing imminent destruction. Even as the world starts to fall apart around them, they have no idea what’s coming—or the bond that will develop between them as they race to avert a cataclysm.

Together, they will journey to uncover the secrets of this strange and singular world, even as it takes them beyond the bounds of reality itself to discover what truly binds them together.]]> 264 J. Scott Coatsworth Amanda 4 4.19 2017 Skythane: Liminal Sky (Oberon Cycle, #1)
author: J. Scott Coatsworth
name: Amanda
average rating: 4.19
book published: 2017
rating: 4
read at: 2021/03/03
date added: 2023/01/16
shelves: arcs, fade-to-black, fantasy-paranormal, gfy-bfy-ofy, instalove, m-m, mm-romance, opposites-attract, romance, scifi, series, war, uno-2020
review:
This book is nonstop action from page 1 and I just couldn’t put it down. Although it takes place on another planet, it does read as more fantasy than Sci-fi and there’s absolutely bananas good worldbuilding to go along with it. With a centuries old prophecy that our MCs are at the heart of, but know nothing about, their world is thrown into absolute chaos from the start and we get to be along for the ride. The romance seems quick and the MCs seem to fall without really knowing each other, but that is also explained in a unique and intriguing way. Definitely a book that makes you want to have book 2 queued up as it ends in such a way that you ’t possibly be expected to wait to find what happens next. With such an interesting world, and so many twists, turns, and secrets, this book is a start to what I think will be a very exciting adventure
]]> <![CDATA[The Alpha Experiment (Mismatched Mates, #3)]]> 57813662
Brilliant geneticist Newton McEwen, the only human in a family of werewolves, has devoted his life to researching the scientific key to shifter magic. Now he’s being blackmailed and his life’s work is threatened if he ’t produce results.

Alpha werewolf Colin Kimball is a newly-minted pack leader with a mountain of responsibilities, but when his lifelong best friend tells him he needs help, Colin drops everything to run to his aid. But Newt’s not just looking for a brawny bodyguard to watch his back—he needs help with an experiment, one he ’t carry out alone.

Out of academically approved methods, and desperate to accelerate his research, Newt’s trying a last-ditch approach, with himself as the test subject. And the very alpha Colin as the catalyst.

Determined to succeed, Newt’s willing to get up close and personal with Colin as many times as it takes. Only feelings weren’t a variable logic-minded Newt took into account. Now not only is Newt’s career on the line, his most important relationship is at stake. Can they outwit Newt’s blackmailer and move on from their experimentation…or will they lose the friendship that means everything to them?

The Alpha Experiment features not-so-scientific mating rituals, magical handcuffs, some very inappropriate outdoor activities, knotting, and a guaranteed happily ever after. Even though it’s number five in the Mismatched Mates series, it can be read as a standalone. The series does not contain mpreg.]]> 291 Eliot Grayson Amanda 4 4.02 2021 The Alpha Experiment (Mismatched Mates, #3)
author: Eliot Grayson
name: Amanda
average rating: 4.02
book published: 2021
rating: 4
read at: 2022/12/16
date added: 2022/12/16
shelves: arcs, fantasy-paranormal, favorite-authors, first-time, friends-to-lovers, gfy-bfy-ofy, kink, m-m, mm-romance, opposites-attract, released-in-2021, romance, series, shifters, standalone, steamy, uno-2020, wheel2022
review:
Excuse me a moment while I finish fanning myself as Eliot truly brought the steam with this one! It’s a GFY, best friends to lovers tale with a super alpha-y male and a science nerd who needs a knot...but it’s just for research, I swear
]]> <![CDATA[Captive Mate (Mismatched Mates #2)]]> 55129651 207 Eliot Grayson Amanda 4 3.98 2020 Captive Mate (Mismatched Mates #2)
author: Eliot Grayson
name: Amanda
average rating: 3.98
book published: 2020
rating: 4
read at: 2022/12/16
date added: 2022/12/16
shelves: arcs, enemies-to-lovers, fantasy-paranormal, homeless, m-m, opposites-attract, series, shifters, standalone, wheel2022
review:
I liked this book a whole lot more than I thought I would when I began reading. See, I didn’t really like Arik. And that never changed. But while I didn’t like him as a person, I still really enjoyed him as a character. He’s prickly, defensive, pretty selfish, and these are not qualities I like, but I did understand why he was that way. I thought there was a lot of good further world building in this one, and am definitely excited to see how the series progresses in the future. I do wish we got Matthews POV, because I definitely don’t understand why he fell in love with Arik, but for some reason, I didn’t care. This would usually bother me immensely, but instead I was all aboard this relationship.
]]> <![CDATA[The Alpha's Warlock (Mismatched Mates #1)]]> 51940349 Cursed, mated, and in for the fight of their lives�

Warlock Nate Hawthorne just wants a cup of coffee. Is that too much to ask? Apparently. Because instead of precious caffeine, all he gets is cursed by a pack of werewolves who want to use him for his magic. Now the only way to fix the damage is a mate bond to a grumpy and oh-so-sexy alpha in the rival pack, who happens to hate him. This is so not how he wanted to start his day.

Ian Armitage never intended to take Nate as his mate. The Hawthorne family ’t be trusted. Ian knows that better than anyone. The fact that he’s lusted after the way-too-gorgeous man for years? Totally irrelevant. Ian’s just doing what is necessary to protect his pack. This whole mating arrangement has nothing to do with love and never will. That’s his story and he’s sticking to it.

Nate and Ian will have to work together if they have any hope of staving off the pack’s enemies and averting disaster. That’s assuming they can stop arguing (and keep their hands off each other) long enough to save the day�

The Alpha’s Warlock is an explicit M/M paranormal romance featuring a snarky warlock, a brooding alpha werewolf, knotting, enchanted socks (long story), and a guaranteed happily ever after.]]> 204 Eliot Grayson Amanda 5
This is my first book by Eliot Grayson and I am blown away. This one has the makings of so many things I love, magic users, a boatload of snark and sass, shifters, and a whole lot of steam. I was drawn in from the very beginning, and it has been complete torture putting this one down when I’ve had to work. I LOVE Nate! He’s full of spunk and attitude, and has my exact sense of humor. Ian was awesome too, especially once you know why he acts the way he does. If you’re into growly protective alphas (as I am), than he is totally the man for you. The world building was really good, and the side characters were well developed and so interesting that I hope there are many more stories in this world. ]]> 3.76 2020 The Alpha's Warlock (Mismatched Mates #1)
author: Eliot Grayson
name: Amanda
average rating: 3.76
book published: 2020
rating: 5
read at: 2022/12/16
date added: 2022/12/16
shelves: arcs, enemies-to-lovers, fantasy-paranormal, funny, m-m, magic-witches-wizards, opposites-attract, series, shifters, slow-burn, standalone, urban-fantasy, uno-2020, wheel2022
review:
4.5 stars!

This is my first book by Eliot Grayson and I am blown away. This one has the makings of so many things I love, magic users, a boatload of snark and sass, shifters, and a whole lot of steam. I was drawn in from the very beginning, and it has been complete torture putting this one down when I’ve had to work. I LOVE Nate! He’s full of spunk and attitude, and has my exact sense of humor. Ian was awesome too, especially once you know why he acts the way he does. If you’re into growly protective alphas (as I am), than he is totally the man for you. The world building was really good, and the side characters were well developed and so interesting that I hope there are many more stories in this world.
]]> <![CDATA[Cold Moon (Wolf Moon Rising, #4)]]> 58311425 An alpha torn apart, his heart stitched back together by the gentle hands of one sweet doctor’s assistant�

Dante Reid has never fit in with his pack of feral, dangerous alphas. He hates his own nature, and his monster of a father makes him question his very DNA. When the Reids leave him bleeding out at the edge of Grove pack lands, it’s their sweater-wearing leader who saves Dante’s life, but in the bright eyes of Doctor Grove’s assistant, Skye, he sees hope for his future, and a place he wishes he could belong.

For all his life, Skye Johnson has been treated like he’s made of china. As the only omega in the Grove pack with a chronic case of the mysterious Condition, his pack is fiercely protective of him. When a strange new alpha arrives in the clinic, the pack circles to keep him safe, but Skye can see more in Dante Reid than his name. And for once, it seems like an alpha might see Skye clearly too, for all that he has to offer and not for his chronic illness.

The condition has already torn apart Skye and Dante’s childhoods, but now the source of that threat rears its head, and wants to take what little they have left. Can they stop the Sterling Corporation and its master before it’s too late?

Cold Moon is a hurt-comfort werewolfy romance with one sad packless alpha searching for himself and a place to belong, one sick omega who’s even more sick of being underestimated, and all the breakfast sandwiches two wolves can eat, even if they are (blech) healthy, in a non-mpreg ABO world.]]> 225 Sam Burns Amanda 4
The secondary plot of the condition finally reached its climax and it was so well done and interesting! We've already learned the who at this point, but the why was not at all what I expected while still absolutely making sense! There's a couple moments of suspense and tension, and just loved the way it was handled with both of our MCs realizing how much they are truly capable of, especially now that they have each other. It also perfectly teed up the next book in the series with someone I've definitely been dying for to have a story, and new character who is incredibly interesting.]]> 4.16 2021 Cold Moon (Wolf Moon Rising, #4)
author: Sam Burns
name: Amanda
average rating: 4.16
book published: 2021
rating: 4
read at: 2022/12/12
date added: 2022/12/12
shelves: arcs, profession-medical, fantasy-paranormal, fated-mates, favorite-authors, favorite-series, found-family, friends-to-lovers, hurt-comfort, illness, injury, m-m, mm-romance, omegaverse, opposites-attract, paranormal, released-in-2021, romance, shifters, slow-burn, small-town, sweet, wheel2022
review:
If you're in the market for a book with two MCs who just absolutely deserve the happiest HEA, then look no further than this book! I've been interested in Skye since the first book, as one of the few omegas living with the Condition, and dealing with it every day, he was an intriguing character from the start. Add in the fact that he's small, adorable, and just a big sweetheart and I was smitten from the first page. So him being paired up with a Reid was a surprise, but it made sense once we got to meet Dante who was just so sweet and caring, and absolutely the best alpha to be there for Skye and realize he was not the broken omega every one treated him as. The romance was a slow burn with big feelings and I know I'm saying it a lot, but just so sweet and adorable and I loved everything about it.

The secondary plot of the condition finally reached its climax and it was so well done and interesting! We've already learned the who at this point, but the why was not at all what I expected while still absolutely making sense! There's a couple moments of suspense and tension, and just loved the way it was handled with both of our MCs realizing how much they are truly capable of, especially now that they have each other. It also perfectly teed up the next book in the series with someone I've definitely been dying for to have a story, and new character who is incredibly interesting.
]]> Sailor Proof (Shore Leave #1) 56469129 The sexy Navy chief and his best friend’s adorkable little brother�

It’s petty, but Naval Chief Derrick Fox wishes he could exact a little revenge on his ex by showing off a rebound fling. His submarine is due to return to its Bremerton, Washington, home base soon and Derrick knows all too well there won't be anyone waiting with a big, showy welcome.

Enter one ill-advised plan�

Arthur Euler is the guy you go to in a pinch—he's excellent at out-of-the-box solutions. It's what the genius music-slash-computer nerd is known for. So when he finds out Derrick needs a favor, he’s happy to help. He can muster the sort of welcome a Naval Chief deserves, no problem at all.

Except it is a problem. A very big problem.

When Arthur’s homecoming welcome is a little too convincing, when a video of their gangplank smooch goes enormously viral, they're caught between a dock and a hard place. Neither of them ever expected a temporary fake relationship to look—or feel—so real. And Arthur certainly never considered he'd be fighting for a very much not-fake forever with a military man.]]> 320 Annabeth Albert Amanda 4 4.11 2021 Sailor Proof (Shore Leave #1)
author: Annabeth Albert
name: Amanda
average rating: 4.11
book published: 2021
rating: 4
read at: 2022/12/05
date added: 2022/12/05
shelves: arcs, contemporary, fake-relationship, first-time, fluffy, found-family, friends-to-lovers, m-m, military, mm-romance, opposites-attract, released-in-2021, romance, series, standalone, sweet, wheel2022
review:
Nobody does a military romance quite like Annabeth Albert. This was such a cute opposites attract, fake relationship turned real story with such extremely likable characters and a sweet HEA. Stoic, reserved, and a career military man, while Arthur is artistic, free spirited, and while he comes from a military family, his one rule is he will never date a military man. However, the absolutely explosive chemistry Albert throws at you with that very first kiss proves that these two are destined for more than just a fake relationship. Very low angst, so many tropes done in the best way, a HEA that left me with a smile, and the start to a series I'm very excited for!
]]> <![CDATA[A Veiled & Hallowed Eve (Soulbound, #7)]]> 57092008 Death is the last lover you will ever know.

SOA Special Agent Patrick Collins has lived a life full of lies, and it has finally caught up with him. There’s no denying his past any longer, not after giving up the truth to save himself from a murder charge. But truth alone ’t set Patrick free, and time is running out to stop the Dominion Sect from turning his father into a god.

Jonothon de Vere knows survival isn’t a guarantee, but he’s desperate to keep Patrick safe, even as hope slips through his fingers. With the future unknown, Jono will follow Patrick wherever he goes, even to Salem, where a family reunion reveals a bitter secret that was never going to stay buried.

With New York City under control of their god pack, Patrick and Jono must fall back on every alliance they’ve brokered to fill the front lines of a war coming directly to the city streets. The veil is always thinnest on Samhain, and what awaits them on the other side is the stuff of nightmares. For when it tears, all hell will break loose, and the gods will be summoned to face a reckoning the world isn’t ready for.

The stakes have never been higher, failure has never been so deadly, and the Fates have never been kind to heroes. Patrick knows that better than anyone—because everything has a price, every debt always comes due, and it’s finally time for Patrick to pay his.]]> 486 Hailey Turner Amanda 5
This book was a nonstop adventure. There is just action coming at you from all sides from the time you start until the very end. I definitely cried MULTIPLE times (this is not a spoiler, this is a Hailey guarantee™️), laughed some (thank you Wade for being the teenage dragon we all need), swooned always (JONO ]]> 4.59 2021 A Veiled & Hallowed Eve (Soulbound, #7)
author: Hailey Turner
name: Amanda
average rating: 4.59
book published: 2021
rating: 5
read at: 2022/11/26
date added: 2022/11/26
shelves: 2021-favorites, arcs, angst, dragons, established-couple, fantasy-paranormal, favorite-authors, favorite-series, found-family, hurt-comfort, m-m, magic-witches-wizards, military, mm-romance, released-in-2021, romance, series, shifters, suspense, war, you-sound-like-youre-from-london, wheel2022
review:
This is probably going to be the most difficult review I've ever written, I'm going to try to keep it coherent while still being spoiler free and keeping myself together as get sad at one of my all time favorite series coming to an end.

This book was a nonstop adventure. There is just action coming at you from all sides from the time you start until the very end. I definitely cried MULTIPLE times (this is not a spoiler, this is a Hailey guarantee™️), laughed some (thank you Wade for being the teenage dragon we all need), swooned always (JONO
]]> <![CDATA[On the Wings of War (Soulbound, #5)]]> 54477020 Remembering the dead will always give them life.

The coveted Morrígan’s staff is up for sale on the black market to the highest bidder, and SOA Special Agent Patrick Collins will do whatever it takes to ensure the Dominion Sect doesn’t get their hands on it. Returning the weapon to its rightful owner is another step on the long road toward clearing Patrick’s soul debt, but he won’t walk it alone. Jonothon de Vere won’t let him.

Obeying the gods means Patrick must travel to London. For Jono, it means facing a past he thought he’d left behind forever. His return to England isn’t welcome, and neither is their pack, but Jono and Patrick will face the antagonism together. Politics aside, their priority must be the mission, but the bone-chilling secret they uncover in the London god pack will have far-reaching repercussions no one can ignore.

A race against time takes Patrick and Jono from the streets of London to the bright lights of Paris, where hospitality is thin on the ground, the air is filled with whispered prayers for the missing, and the Morrígan’s staff will end up in the one place it should never have gone—a graveyard.

For beneath Paris lie the long-forgotten dead, and when they rise to walk again, the living can only hope to die.

On the Wings of War is a 109k word m/m urban fantasy with a gay romantic subplot and a HFN ending. It is a direct sequel to A Vigil in the Mourning. Reading the first book in the series would be helpful in enjoying this one.]]> 390 Hailey Turner Amanda 5
First off, the relationship. Jono and Patrick are just so solid and full of love, even if Patrick ’t say it. You can definitely feel it here in the way they look to one another, lean on each other, and just generally love with all they have. They’re definitely slotting in as one of my favorite book couples.

The pack dynamics are amazing too. Sage and Wade are such a part of this family and this book would be nothing without them. (I dare you to say Wade isn’t your favorite character, you are a liar!)

Then, of course, the main event, the incredible world building that Turner somehow tops in each installment. You have multiple pack politics, magical policing politics, foreign politics, the greater magical world, and so many different mythologies that you would think it wouldn’t work, but Turner seamlessly blends it all together and no storyline is lacking.

This installment was full of action, had a good dash of humor (WADE ❤️ and also Spencer), has so many twists and turns (that last big reveal!). It seriously had everything you could want in a book and just further proved why this series is one of my favorites. ]]> 4.48 2020 On the Wings of War (Soulbound, #5)
author: Hailey Turner
name: Amanda
average rating: 4.48
book published: 2020
rating: 5
read at: 2022/11/23
date added: 2022/11/23
shelves: arcs, established-couple, exciting, fantasy-paranormal, favorite-authors, favorite-series, found-family, funny, horror, m-m, magic-witches-wizards, military, series, shifters, war, you-sound-like-youre-from-london, wheel2022
review:
This series is EVERYTHING.

First off, the relationship. Jono and Patrick are just so solid and full of love, even if Patrick ’t say it. You can definitely feel it here in the way they look to one another, lean on each other, and just generally love with all they have. They’re definitely slotting in as one of my favorite book couples.

The pack dynamics are amazing too. Sage and Wade are such a part of this family and this book would be nothing without them. (I dare you to say Wade isn’t your favorite character, you are a liar!)

Then, of course, the main event, the incredible world building that Turner somehow tops in each installment. You have multiple pack politics, magical policing politics, foreign politics, the greater magical world, and so many different mythologies that you would think it wouldn’t work, but Turner seamlessly blends it all together and no storyline is lacking.

This installment was full of action, had a good dash of humor (WADE ❤️ and also Spencer), has so many twists and turns (that last big reveal!). It seriously had everything you could want in a book and just further proved why this series is one of my favorites.
]]> <![CDATA[The Hunter and His Mates (Kincaid Pack #4)]]> 58288088
First, nothing and no one gets to the alpha without his say so.

Second, schedules will be enforced for everyone. At all costs.

Third, a certain Enforcer with an enticing scent and scarred face is not to be stared at, drooled over, and/or daydreamed about.

And fourth, human hunters are never, ever mate material—no matter what their smiles or Southern drawls do to him.

But what if his own rules are preventing Jamie from finding something unique and magical and hotter than he could ever imagine? Because being caught between a grumpy cougar and a dangerous hunter was the last place Jamie thought he should be� but it might just be exactly where he needs to be to find both of his fated mates.

The Hunter and His Mates is the fourth book in the bestselling Kincaid Pack series, which is most enjoyable when read in order. This installment is an MMM romance featuring a scentless human trying to make a home in a pack of shifters, an Enforcer with mild PTSD and a possessive streak a mile wide, and the sweet little hawk who adores them both.]]> 315 Kiki Clark Amanda 4
Now, as others have pointed out, this book doesn't do as good of a job of progressing the overall Kincaid Pack plot, which is why I can't give this book 5 stars. Kiki does bonkers-good world building and it's just kinda missing here. I will absolutely continue on with the series as I need to see the epic showdown I just know will be there at the end, but this one ends up for me to be high on the relationships and low on the overarching plot. ]]> 4.29 2021 The Hunter and His Mates (Kincaid Pack #4)
author: Kiki Clark
name: Amanda
average rating: 4.29
book published: 2021
rating: 4
read at: 2022/11/18
date added: 2022/11/19
shelves: arcs, enemies-to-lovers, fantasy-paranormal, fated-mates, favorite-authors, favorite-series, first-time, hurt-comfort, injury, m-m, instalove, magic-witches-wizards, mental-health-illness, mm-romance, mmm, released-in-2021, romance, series, shifters, wheel2022
review:
MMM is so tricky to write, and there were times where I lost faith in Clark's ability to make this a cohesive and equal trio, but I needn't have bothered as by the end of the story their love was solid and made so much sense for all three of them to be together. While these three characters have made plenty of appearances in the background of other stories, I truly felt like we got to know them here and got into their heads in a way Kiki has always done so well. If you're looking for a well written trio, with some seriously steamy scenes, I do recommend this book.

Now, as others have pointed out, this book doesn't do as good of a job of progressing the overall Kincaid Pack plot, which is why I can't give this book 5 stars. Kiki does bonkers-good world building and it's just kinda missing here. I will absolutely continue on with the series as I need to see the epic showdown I just know will be there at the end, but this one ends up for me to be high on the relationships and low on the overarching plot.
]]> <![CDATA[Five Dead Herrings (Quest Investigations, #1)]]> 58833234
On my last stakeout for Quest Investigations, I nearly got clotheslined by a grove of angry dryads. I expected my bosses to reprimand me, but instead they handed me my first solo assignment. Me! Matt Steinitz, the only human on the Quest roster!

Okay, so the mission isn’t exactly demanding. Obviously, the bosses wanted to give me something they think I ’t screw up. I’m determined to show them what I can do, however, so I dive right in with no complaints.

At first glance, it looks as simple as baiting a hook: A selkie’s almost-ex-husband is vandalizing his boat with unwanted deliveries of deceased sea life. All I have to do is document the scene, tell the ex to cease and desist, and present the bill for property damages. Boom. Mission accomplished, another Quest success, and as a bonus, I get to keep my job.

But then things get…complicated. Suspicious undercurrents muddy up my oh-so-easy case. Nothing is as clear as it should be. And the biggest complication? My inappropriate attraction to the client, who may not be as blameless as he claims.

Turns out those dead herrings aren’t the only things that stink about this situation.

Dammit.

Five Dead Herrings is the first in the Quest Investigations M/M paranormal mystery series, a spinoff of E.J. Russell’s Mythmatched paranormal rom-com story world. It contains no on-page sex or violence, and although there is a romantic subplot, it is not a romance.]]> 202 E.J. Russell 1947033328 Amanda 5 4.04 2021 Five Dead Herrings (Quest Investigations, #1)
author: E.J. Russell
name: Amanda
average rating: 4.04
book published: 2021
rating: 5
read at: 2024/01/21
date added: 2022/10/29
shelves: arcs, fantasy-paranormal, favorite-authors, funny, m-m, mm-romance, mystery, released-in-2021, romance, royalty, series, shifters, blue-cover
review:
I didn't realize how much I missed the Mythmatched universe until starting this series, but I am so pumped that Russell has started a new series in this magical, fun, and amazing world. Matt, or Hugh depending on who you ask, stole my heart in Vampire with Benefits and he continued to do so here. He's the only human in a world full of supes, still in love with Ted, and just trying to find where he belongs. Along the way he also has to solve the mystery of the dead herrings, deal with the fact that the dryads seem to have a vendetta against him, and try not to fall in love with the wrong person, the ever dashing selkie would-be-king Lachlan. If you're looking for a book with magic, an engaging series, fabulous characters, and what is shaping up to be a very good slow-burn romance, this is the book for you. I honestly cannot wait for the next book!
]]> <![CDATA[Right as Raine (Aster Valley, #1)]]> 56326586 Tiller:

As the first openly gay professional football player, I ’t afford to make any mistakes, on or off the field. And the absolute biggest mistake I could make right now would be to fall for Mikey Vining, my best friend, employee and, more importantly, Coach’s baby boy. I might fantasize about Mikey at night-—every night—but actually touching him would be a serious personal foul.

And falling for him? That’s completely out of bounds.

Mikey:

I’ve learned my lesson about falling for one of my dad’s players. They’re a bunch of spoiled jocks with more muscles than brains. I’ve spent years learning to keep my eyes, and my hands, to myself. But resisting the temptation becomes nearly impossible when Tiller Raine and I end up together in a small cabin in a remote Colorado town.

Suddenly, there’s not much to do but look at each other. And talk. And hopefully, hopefully touch.

But what happens when our stay in Aster Valley is over and it’s time to return to the real world? Will Coach blow the whistle on our relationship? Or will Tiller admit there might actually be something he loves more than football after all?]]> 278 Lucy Lennox Amanda 4 4.27 2021 Right as Raine (Aster Valley, #1)
author: Lucy Lennox
name: Amanda
average rating: 4.27
book published: 2021
rating: 4
read at: 2022/07/20
date added: 2022/07/21
shelves: arcs, boss-employee, contemporary, favorite-authors, first-time, fluffy, found-family, friends-to-lovers, m-m, opposites-attract, released-in-2021, romance, series, small-town, sports-football, standalone, sweet, trip, tower2022
review:
This book was just a little slice of happiness. I absolutely adored Mikey and Tiller, they were kind of awkward together at times, which made their chemistry and blazing dirty talk all the more better when it came out. I enjoyed how these two obviously had feelings for each other, but they were also obviously just so concerned about one another and cared for one another more than just in lusty ways. And Aster Valley? What a picturesque town, with the kind of characters only Lucy can create that I ’t wait to see more of. There was just enough sports to make it a sports romance, but not enough to take me out of it with my lack of knowledge for sports and I greatly appreciated that. My one slight problem was Mikey’s family was TERRIBLE and I wish they got more of a comeuppance, but maybe I’m just more petty than the characters. Either way, I’m enamored with this small town already and ’t wait to see what comes next.
]]> <![CDATA[Face Offs & Cheap Shots (CU Hockey, #2)]]> 54866923 JACOBS

For the last three years, I’ve lived and breathed hockey with one goal: team captain.

There’s only one thing standing in my way. TJ Beckett.

Beck is irresponsible and immature, and I’ve hated him since the moment we met freshman year.

Yet, the coaches see something in him I obviously ’t, and they refuse to choose between us. The captain spot is going to a team vote, and the team thinks that what we need are a bunch of challenges to prove our worth. Challenges that have nothing to do with hockey. Challenges that are throwing me and Beck together.
And he’s still as infuriating as ever.


BECK

I have no idea why Christopher Jacobs hates me, and I ’t say I care. I like pushing his buttons, but the guy needs to loosen up. I’m going to win these stupid challenges easily and spend my senior year as hockey king on this campus.

Tormenting Jacobs at the same time will just be a bonus.

Even if I’m getting confusing feelings toward him, I won’t let it hold me back.

When it comes to competing, I’m all in, and nothing will get between me and the W.]]> 302 Eden Finley Amanda 5 4.19 2020 Face Offs & Cheap Shots (CU Hockey, #2)
author: Eden Finley
name: Amanda
average rating: 4.19
book published: 2020
rating: 5
read at: 2022/07/16
date added: 2022/07/18
shelves: arcs, college, contemporary, enemies-to-lovers, first-time, fluffy, gfy-bfy-ofy, m-m, series, sports-hockey, standalone, tower2022
review:
An absolutely wonderful enemies to lovers, exploration of sexuality, sports romance! For enemies to lovers to work for me it has to be done completely right, and I really think it was here. There was so much initial animosity between Jacobs and Beck, but it definitely translated into smoking hot chemistry once they finally got pushed together (and by a game of gay chicken no less!). These two were kind of bumbling fools with their feelings for one another, and I adored it. They both completely came into their own in the relationship, and it made for, in my book, a completely winning HEA.
]]> <![CDATA[Power Plays & Straight A's (CU Hockey, #1)]]> 53336266 FOSTER

“Look out for Zach and don’t hit on him.�

My brother’s request sounds easy enough. Keep an eye out for his best friend on campus and keep my hands to myself.

Easy.

Even if Zach is a quintessential nerd, who I’ve always thought was cute, I don’t have the time to think with my � stick.

There’s only one stick I should be focused on this year, and that’s my hockey stick. My goal once I graduate is to get an NHL contract.

The last thing I need is a distraction. On or off the ice.

Only, keeping to the rules is harder than I thought it would be.



ZACH

People confuse me.

And no one more than Foster Grant.

I’ve barely spoken two words to him in the whole time I’ve known him, but the second I step foot on campus, he’s impossible to shake.

I can never anticipate his next move. And whenever we’re together, my next move is a total mystery as well.

I want to give in to him, but that might mean coming clean about something I’ve never been bothered about before.

I’m still carrying my V-card.

And I think it’s time to turn it in.]]> 314 Eden Finley Amanda 4
If you’re looking for a lot of your favorite tropes done right, do I have a book for you! Brothers best friend, Jock and Nerd, Virgin MC, Out for You; it’s all done here and it’s all done well. I’ve loved all of Eden Finley’s Fake Boyfriend books so I already knew she could write a sports romance well, but I think Saxon James is a great author to add to the mix, as it seems like it made for a sweeter and fluffier story, which is exactly what I needed. Zach and Foster were adorable together, and their chemistry in the bedroom was smoking hot. I do wish there was a little more tension, as whenever there was it faded to quickly for my tastes, but that’s definitely a me not the book thing. This was incredibly well written and I was completely unable to put it down once I started. I will definitely be continuing the series and look forward to more from this writing duo in the future!]]> 3.85 2020 Power Plays & Straight A's (CU Hockey, #1)
author: Eden Finley
name: Amanda
average rating: 3.85
book published: 2020
rating: 4
read at: 2022/07/16
date added: 2022/07/18
shelves: arcs, awkward-mc, college, contemporary, favorite-authors, first-time, fluffy, friends-to-lovers, funny, gfy-bfy-ofy, m-m, nerds, opposites-attract, series, sports-hockey, standalone, sweet, tower2022
review:
3.75 stars!

If you’re looking for a lot of your favorite tropes done right, do I have a book for you! Brothers best friend, Jock and Nerd, Virgin MC, Out for You; it’s all done here and it’s all done well. I’ve loved all of Eden Finley’s Fake Boyfriend books so I already knew she could write a sports romance well, but I think Saxon James is a great author to add to the mix, as it seems like it made for a sweeter and fluffier story, which is exactly what I needed. Zach and Foster were adorable together, and their chemistry in the bedroom was smoking hot. I do wish there was a little more tension, as whenever there was it faded to quickly for my tastes, but that’s definitely a me not the book thing. This was incredibly well written and I was completely unable to put it down once I started. I will definitely be continuing the series and look forward to more from this writing duo in the future!
]]> <![CDATA[Puck Drills & Quick Thrills (CU Hockey, #5)]]> 58405132 WESTLY

The fall from NHL superstar to domestic disaster was swift and painful. When I became the legal guardian of my five younger siblings, I had no idea what I was doing.

One year later, I’m still lost.

Coaching CU’s hockey team might be the only thing I’m excelling at. But when our star forward is failing math, I have to do what it takes to keep him on the team. Even if it’s going head-to-head with Jasper Eckstein.

One minute I’m confronting the notorious hockey-hating professor, and the next I’m agreeing to be his date to his twenty-year high school reunion.

I don’t know how that happened.


JASPER

My rules are simple. I don’t give extra credit. Ever. No matter how entitled jocks think they are, I refuse to give them special treatment.

It's not because I hate them. It's not because a hockey player broke my nose in high school.

It's fair.

But when Westly Dalton bursts into my office like a hurricane, all my principles fly out the window.

Suddenly I'm giving extra credit.

And I have a date to my reunion.

After one explosive night together, I want more, but his home life is a mess, and I don't want to get in the way. If all we can have is quick thrills, I’m okay with that.

It’s not like I could ever fall for a jock.]]> 282 Eden Finley Amanda 4 4.18 2021 Puck Drills & Quick Thrills (CU Hockey, #5)
author: Eden Finley
name: Amanda
average rating: 4.18
book published: 2021
rating: 4
read at: 2023/02/25
date added: 2022/07/18
shelves: arcs, contemporary, enemies-to-lovers, favorite-series, m-m, mm-romance, opposites-attract, released-in-2021, romance, sports-hockey, sweet, steamy, tower2022
review:
These series is just so amazing (and I want to cry that it is done!). I'm gonna start with addressing my main man Jasper, because I saw myself in him so much. I was also a bullied kid who had a late in life glow-up and still dresses like I'm from a different era so I instantly felt a kinship to Jasper. I completely understood why he feels the way he does and why he can be a little more than curmudgeonly. I also completely understood why West melted him so thoroughly. West was sweet, light hearted, extremely overwhelmed, and just what Jasper needed in his life. Their chemistry was overwhelming and the steamy scenes were
]]> <![CDATA[Socially Orcward (Adventures in Aguillon #3)]]> 56789078
So it’s a delightful surprise when Simon Perrin, the new kitchen boy, not only knows all about dragons, but seems to like Dave as much as Dave likes him back. But all is not what it seems, and Simon is hiding a dark secret. There are sinister forces at work, and Simon needs to find a way out of the situation he’s trapped in. If he doesn’t, it could mean disaster for the entire kingdom of Aguillon, and an even more terrible fate for Pie, Dave’s beloved fingerdragon.

When Dave discovers Simon and Pie are in danger, he’s swept up in a rescue mission that spans an ocean, tests a friendship, and has more dragons that you could poke a lute at. It’s going to be a wild ride—literally.]]> 223 Lisa Henry Amanda 5 4.45 2021 Socially Orcward (Adventures in Aguillon #3)
author: Lisa Henry
name: Amanda
average rating: 4.45
book published: 2021
rating: 5
read at: 2022/06/28
date added: 2022/06/28
shelves: 2021-favorites, arcs, fluffy, funny, m-m, opposites-attract, released-in-2021, romance, series, sweet, uno-2020, tower2022
review:
Ugh now I have to somehow pick a favorite between this book and book 2 because this book was just absolutely delightful! I really wasn’t sure what to expect for Dave’s book, but really this book would’ve exceeded any expectations I did have. It was just so adorable, laugh out loud funny from pretty much the first page, and full of everything I’ve come to love from this series. Dave and Simon made me smile more than should be possible, made my heart hurt at times, and definitely made me wish I had a dragon of my own!
]]> <![CDATA[Must Love Demons (Magic Emporium; Much Ado About Demons #1)]]> 56609968
You’d be wrong.

Incubus Nico Azertiran has his dream job as a cherub-in-training. It’s the perfect position for a lust demon who’s more interested in happily-ever-afters than one-night stands. Or it would be, if he didn’t keep screwing it up. When a new cherub gadget misfires, Nico is left trussed to Verona’s most eligible warden, the incredibly grumpy, Sir Flame.

Flambeau Illume has a job to do. Someone’s murdering Verona’s rich and famous, and Sir Flame’s hot on the killer’s trail . . . until he has the misfortune to get magically lassoed to the most infuriating incubus he’s ever had the displeasure to meet. Except, maybe Nico isn’t so terribly awful. But how can he solve his case and keep Nico safe at the same time? Especially when the sweet demon seems to have a bullseye on his back.

Together they need to solve the crime, stay alive, and—if their luck changes—maybe even fall in love. Easy, right?

Must Love Demons is part of the Magic Emporium series. Each book stands alone, but each one features an appearance by Marden’s Magic Emporium, a shop that can appear anywhere, but only once and only when someone’s in dire need. This book contains explicit scenes, a lariat of love, a demon tail with a mind of its own, and a guaranteed HEA.]]> 332 Meghan Maslow Amanda 5 4.27 2021 Must Love Demons (Magic Emporium; Much Ado About Demons #1)
author: Meghan Maslow
name: Amanda
average rating: 4.27
book published: 2021
rating: 5
read at: 2022/06/27
date added: 2022/06/27
shelves: 2021-favorites, arcs, fantasy-paranormal, m-m, mm-romance, multi-author-series, mystery, opposites-attract, released-in-2021, romance, shifters, standalone, uno-2020, tower2022, z-letter-i
review:
Somehow Maslow has outdone her Starfig Investigations series, and created something completely unique and absolutely wonderfully. Lovers of the sunshine one and the grumpy one trope REJOICE because this book has it in spades. Nico is absolutely sunshine personified, and Flame is an absolute grump to his core, but these two are so absolutely wonderful once they realize they belong together. AND this book had such a well done mystery. I put on my super sleuth hat, thought for sure I saw The Big Twist� coming, and then had the socks knocked off me when I was so very wrong. Love, love, loved this book. With wit and humor you can expect from Maslow, this book is truly one you shouldn’t miss.
]]> <![CDATA[Duking It Out (Royal Powers, #1)]]> 54318995
Sander Fiala, Duke of Roses, is fourth in line to the South Abarran throne, even though his rogue power earned him the nickname “The Monster of Roses� and got him banished from the Castle. But right before he’s about to set off on his annual birthday sailing trip, the Queen asks him to meet with the notoriously volatile North Abarran Duke of Arles.

Tarik Jaso, Duke of Arles, expects the worst from people because—let’s face it—people are the worst. His superpower bombards him with any and all electronic transmissions, which…yeah, people suck. So when he’s attacked and wakes up in the cabin of a stranded boat, he knows he’s royally screwed. Because the man looming over him—the man he’d gone toe-to-toe with right before the attack—is the infamous Monster of Roses.

Tarik is positive the Monster is behind his kidnapping. Sander is sure the whole thing is Tarik’s fault. As they work toward rescue, Tarik realizes that the disturbingly hot Sander is no monster, and Sander discovers that Tarik’s temper masks a caring soul wrapped in a cantankerous (though undeniably sexy) body.

For their burgeoning connection to endure, they’ll have to duke it out with political factions, dark conspiracies, and centuries of traditions that keep them on opposite sides of the border.

But first? They have to get off this damn island.

Duking It Out is a 46,000-word M/M enemies to lovers, opposites attract, superhero rom-com, featuring Only One Bed, a grumpy duke who should know better than to jump to conclusions, a self-doubting duke who’s good with his hands (heh), gossipy seagulls, competent assistants, a guaranteed HEA, and (unfortunately) capes.]]> 192 E.J. Russell 1947033182 Amanda 4 3.80 2020 Duking It Out (Royal Powers, #1)
author: E.J. Russell
name: Amanda
average rating: 3.80
book published: 2020
rating: 4
read at: 2022/05/20
date added: 2022/05/21
shelves: arcs, enemies-to-lovers, fantasy-paranormal, favorite-authors, first-time, fluffy, forbidden-relationship, m-m, magic-witches-wizards, multi-author-series, royalty, slow-burn, standalone, sweet, tower2022
review:
A very cute and fun enemies to lovers story in a world where each member of the multiple royal families has a unique, and sometimes misunderstood, superpower. There were so many well done tropes here: enemies to lovers (as mentioned), forced proximity, there’s only one bed! There was a grumpy curmudgeonly MC and a vastly misunderstood but truly sweet MC and once they stop butting heads they work so well together. There’s political intrigue, sabotage and betrayal, and a slow sweet slide into love. Such a great start to a series with a shared world. I’m very excited to see where the rest go!
]]> A Magical Arrangement 60148712 Could an arranged marriage lead to two people saving the world?

Caspian is on a mission; go to the human realm, form an alliance, and stop the rifts popping up in the fae and human realm. The only problem? Caspian has to play by human customs which involves an alliance through marriage, and to make matters worse, he and his husband-to-be haven’t started off on the right foot.

Ash was raised a prince but his heart always longed to be adventuring. With rifts opening in his realm, and his new fae husband by his side, Ash will finally get to live that dream. But will magic, evil creatures, spreading darkness, and budding feelings be too big of a distraction for Ash to handle?

A Magical Arrangement is a 34k word arranged marriage story between a fae and a human. Inside you’ll find magic, adventure, mpreg, and of course, a happily ever after. ]]> 129 Toby Wise Amanda 4 4.05 2022 A Magical Arrangement
author: Toby Wise
name: Amanda
average rating: 4.05
book published: 2022
rating: 4
read at: 2022/01/24
date added: 2022/03/06
shelves: arcs, enemies-to-lovers, fantasy-paranormal, fluffy, m-m, magic-witches-wizards, mm-romance, mpreg, romance, standalone, sweet, released-in-2022, green-cover
review:
Toby Wise is one of those authors I can count on for magical heartwarming reads. This is quick, very light enemies to lovers, and just very sweet. The two MCS kind of fuddle through their feelings for each other, but it does end with a very sweet HEA. The worldbuilding is light as others have mentioned, but I think it overall fit with the pace and the tone. If you're looking for an easy quick read with a touch of magic this may just be the one for you!
]]> This Christmas 48999139
New in town and a stranger to everyone, he plans on ignoring the holiday altogether. That would be easier if his ridiculously cheerful new neighbor would cool it on the Christmas hype. Nicholas is annoying and loud. Worst of all, he’s also impossibly attractive and nice to everyone. It’s getting harder for Alex to deny his interest, especially when Nicholas leaves Christmas cookies at his door and wages a snowball fight against him on the coldest day of the year.

Can Alex open up to him and get into the holiday spirit before he endures another ruined Christmas?]]> 209 J.R. Hart 1951057953 Amanda 3 3.80 This Christmas
author: J.R. Hart
name: Amanda
average rating: 3.80
book published:
rating: 3
read at: 2019/12/16
date added: 2022/03/06
shelves: arcs, christmas, contemporary, fade-to-black, first-time, fluffy, m-m, standalone, blue-cover
review:
Another cute Christmas story between one guy who feels the holiday sprit more than most, and one guy who is a complete grinch about the whole thing. It was a fluffy read, and fun to see the unique ways the guys wooed each other
]]> Second Chance 51112183
Callan’s at Whittaker’s Auction House to bid on fae land that his werewolf pack need as their new home, when an unsuspecting human stumbles through the door. Ryder is out of breath, out of luck, way out of his depth—and apparently the newest item on the auctioneer’s block. Unexpectedly tempting, if Callan had the money.

As the bidding heats up and Ryder proves dangerously irresistible to the assembled supernatural creatures, the situation grows more and more precarious. When Callan interferes, he puts his pack’s future in peril. Despite knowing how devious faeries can be, desperation makes Callan accept a deal, a chance to win the land for his pack and a future with Ryder. But it’s a risk. Possibly a deadly one.

This is not 'just another Valentine's story', it's a Barbara Elsborg Valentine's story (ish). So don't expect the usual sonnets and flowers and Cupids, but do expect the unexpected - vampires, weres, witches and warlocks. Oh, and a vengeful fae. Things are not quite as they may seem. You have been warned!
]]> 223 Barbara Elsborg Amanda 4 3.93 2020 Second Chance
author: Barbara Elsborg
name: Amanda
average rating: 3.93
book published: 2020
rating: 4
read at: 2020/02/04
date added: 2022/03/06
shelves: arcs, fantasy-paranormal, first-time, illness, m-m, opposites-attract, second-chance, shifters, standalone, blue-cover
review:
A completely unique and intriguing tale! Some of the twists we’re foreseeable, some completely out of left field, but all made for a very compelling story. From the very beginning I was hooked, and it never once got boring. There is a lot of sex right there at the beginning, so I’d caution you if that isn’t your thing, but if you didn’t still give this book a chance, you’d be missing out. Ryder and Callan are scorching together, but they also have wonderful, hilarious, and loving conversations. This was my first book by this author (I’m pretty sure) but I’ll definitely be looking for more.
]]> <![CDATA[Final Score (Off the Pitch, #3)]]> 52397514 Can one perfect night lead to more?

Jordan Green is too busy for a relationship. With the World Cup looming, his focus is on making the England team, not finding someone to spend his life with. His friends may be settling down, but Jordan’s had enough of planning weddings. All he wants is some fun, and Félix is the perfect person for that� even if he is his boss’s brother.

Félix Trossero is not looking for love. Or a relationship. Or anything beyond tomorrow morning. He’s rich, he’s handsome and he’s incredibly happy with his playboy lifestyle. He doesn’t want anything else. That is, until he runs into one of his former flings at his brother’s football club.

Neither of them want commitment, but neither of them can resist their connection. While Félix is forced to deal with his past, Jordan must face his worst fears. Will they put their hearts on the line for one final score?

Final Score is a 77,000-word contemporary gay romance featuring an age gap relationship, hidden restaurants, unicorn slime and a public declaration of love. It is book three in the Off the Pitch series and should be read as part of the series.]]> 381 Charlie Novak Amanda 4 4.31 2020 Final Score (Off the Pitch, #3)
author: Charlie Novak
name: Amanda
average rating: 4.31
book published: 2020
rating: 4
read at: 2020/04/07
date added: 2022/03/06
shelves: age-gap, arcs, contemporary, fluffy, gfy-bfy-ofy, m-m, series, sports-soccer-futbol, standalone, you-sound-like-youre-from-london, blue-cover
review:
This was a pretty perfect ending to a really good series. It had a lot of things I really like, age gap, friends with benefits to love, out for you, and a whole lot of steam! There was very little angst, and what we did have really occurred outside of the relationship, which I so appreciate. It was great to see the characters I loved from the past two books (although I could always use more Kit), but even better to see these two get a really good HEA, even if both thought they weren’t looking for it.
]]> <![CDATA[A Vigil in the Mourning (Soulbound, #4)]]> 53864165
The devil you know is never the one you should trust.

Special Agent Patrick Collins is dispatched to Chicago, chasing a lead on the Morrígan’s staff for the joint task force. Needing a cover for his presence in the Windy City, Patrick is ordered to investigate a politician running for mayor. In the lead up to election day, not everything is what it seems in a city where playing to win means appeasing the gods first and the electorate second.

But Chicago brings its own set of problems outside the case: a stand-offish local god pack, a missing immortal, and Patrick’s twin sister. Fighting Hannah and the Dominion Sect provides Patrick with a sinister reminder that some blood ties can never be cut.

Left behind in New York City, Jonothon de Vere finds himself targeted by hunters who will go through anyone to kill him—including the packs under his protection. With a bounty on his head, Jono is forced to make a choice that Patrick would never approve of. Doing so risks breaking the trust he’s built with the man he loves, but not acting will give the rival New York City god pack leverage Jono ’t afford to give up.

When Patrick and Jono reunite in Chicago, Patrick must confront the fraying of a relationship he’s come to rely on for his own sanity. But fixing their personal problems will have to wait—because Niflheim is clawing at the shores of Lake Michigan and the dead are hungry.

A Vigil in the Mourning is a 102k word m/m urban fantasy with a gay romantic subplot and a HFN ending. It is a direct sequel to A Crown of Iron & Silver. Listening the first book in the series would be helpful in enjoying this one.]]> 11 Hailey Turner Amanda 5 4.58 2020 A Vigil in the Mourning (Soulbound, #4)
author: Hailey Turner
name: Amanda
average rating: 4.58
book published: 2020
rating: 5
read at: 2022/10/12
date added: 2022/03/06
shelves: arcs, audibook, cops, established-couple, fantasy-paranormal, favorite-authors, found-family, m-m, magic-witches-wizards, series, shifters, urban-fantasy, you-sound-like-youre-from-london, pirates-2021, blue-cover
review:
As expected 5 star performance by Gary Furlong and my 5 star rating of the story definitely still stands ❤️
]]> Sort of Dead 55474314
With the help of Voltan, a diminutive mystic with a predilection for turbans, and Clark, a nerdy computer geek eager to shed his loner past, plus a ghost accountant Bruce, Bruce's drag queen brother Eve O'Destruction, and Nord's kick-ass mom, the newly enamored pair set out to hunt for the murderer, and are quick to discover how much they'd taken for granted when they were alive.

In this hysterically funny and often poignant mystery about fate and love and family, it ultimately takes dying for our heroes to have the times of their lives.

65,171 words]]> 198 Rob Rosen 1646565150 Amanda 4 4.00 2020 Sort of Dead
author: Rob Rosen
name: Amanda
average rating: 4.00
book published: 2020
rating: 4
read at: 2020/10/07
date added: 2022/03/06
shelves: arcs, contemporary, funny, ghosts, hurt-comfort, instalove, m-m, standalone, sweet, blue-cover
review:
3.5 stars! Rosen’s writing works really well for me. It has a good amount of humor but also always an intriguing story line to back it up and keep me interested. In this one we have three sort-of dead people trying to solve one of their murders with the help of a lonely IT guy and a tiny turban wearing medium. It was ridiculous, you definitely have to suspend all disbelief, but its worth it for a truly fun tale. The one downside with this one is the romance is kind of lacking. It’s definitely an instant kind of love, and then the two don’t actually spend all that much time together, but the end message is very sweet.
]]> <![CDATA[Elf Defence (Adventures in Aguillon, #2)]]> 55375797
Or can they?

Enter one Lars Melker, a slightly gullible cowherd built entirely of muscles and sunshine, who happily accepts their word when they tell him he’s the duke now.

Soon Calarian and Benji are knee deep in teaching Lars how to fake it until he makes it. They're also dealing with mountain trolls, a monster, a missing cow, and, most shocking of all, a growing realisation that their elves-with-benefits arrangement might be turning into something with feelings.

Add in their mutual attraction to Lars, and suddenly the hills are alive with the sound of emotionally compromised collectivist anarchist elves.

Also, what’s the deal with those leather shorts?]]> 230 Lisa Henry Amanda 5 3.86 2020 Elf Defence (Adventures in Aguillon, #2)
author: Lisa Henry
name: Amanda
average rating: 3.86
book published: 2020
rating: 5
read at: 2021/04/21
date added: 2022/03/06
shelves: arcs, fantasy-paranormal, fluffy, funny, m-m, mmm, opposites-attract, small-town, sweet, uno-2020, green-cover
review:
4.5 stars! This book was even better than the first in the series. I was laughing from the start, and it honestly never let up. Benji and Calarian were so much fun, and all the unfortunate mishaps they got into made for a delightfully joyful fantasy romp. I liked Lars well enough, but do wish we had gotten the chance to see things from his POV, as I never truly felt like we got to know him. Overall a very fun sequel with an amazing cast and a guarantee to put a smile on everyone’s faces.
]]> <![CDATA[Witch Under Wraps (Mythmatched World, #8)]]> 55503106 When supernatural secrets collide, it’ll take more than coffee to brew the perfect love.

When Ky Hernández bonded with his familiar, Zuri, his life changed forever. Their connection turned him into a practicing witch and led him to his calling as a medimagical professional. However, it totally tanked his love life—what guy would settle for eternal second place behind a parrot? So Ky keeps his witchy nature under wraps and sticks to hookups with humans, which can never go anywhere. But the mouthwatering barista at the coffee shop next door makes him thirst for more than a caffeine fix.

The charms Ewan Jones uses to appear human are inconvenient, disorienting, and . . . necessary. Ewan and his siblings are achubyddion, metaphysical healers whose powers are coveted by unscrupulous supernatural beings. And let’s face it: all supes are unscrupulous, given the right incentive. He’s grateful for the protections that hide his little family, and for the barista job that keeps them housed and fed. He’s just so lonely. And his regular, Ky, the super-hot, commitment-averse EMT, seems like the perfect candidate for a one-night shot at intimacy. After all, humans are no threat.

It takes a clumsy coffee shop intern, a mysterious werewolf epidemic, and one snarky parrot to unravel their pasts—and give them a chance at a future.]]> 279 E.J. Russell 1626499381 Amanda 4 4.09 2020 Witch Under Wraps (Mythmatched World, #8)
author: E.J. Russell
name: Amanda
average rating: 4.09
book published: 2020
rating: 4
read at: 2022/11/06
date added: 2022/03/06
shelves: arcs, first-time, fluffy, hurt-comfort, m-m, magic-witches-wizards, shifters, standalone, sweet, urban-fantasy, blue-cover
review:
3.5 stars! I’m smitten with Russell’s mythmatched universe so I was so glad to get to read a copy of this book. I will say, while this can totally be read as a stand-alone, you will get more enjoyment out of it if you’ve read the previous books in the universe (The Fae out of Water trilogy, the Supernatural Selections trilogy, and Howling on Hold). Here we have Ky and Ewan, whom you can tell are SO into each other from the very beginning, but each have their own reasons for holding a part of themselves back. Because of this, we get not only an exploration of their unfolding romance, but also we get to watch them realize that the obstacles they’ve placed on themselves are completely unnecessary. It was cute and charming, with an added dose of danger, and I thoroughly enjoyed it!
]]> <![CDATA[Trace (Significant Brothers, #4)]]> 38319683 “I’ve given up on my fairytale romance.�

Forensic investigator Dustin has been single for way too long. His family wants him to find Prince Charming—or at least Mr. Own Job and House—but all he can seem to get are hookups.

Just when he gives up on being swept off his feet by a knight in shining armor� Leo walks in and saves him.

After finishing his tour of duty, Leo is searching for the missing pieces in life’s puzzle. The forensic photographer has a heart of gold behind his muscles, but he ’t figure out why he doesn’t click with women. His first clue comes when he accidentally walks into a gay bar and finds a cute, shy nerd who needs to be rescued.

Things start falling into place, and fast. Leo is a man with a mission to win Dustin’s heart. Even as he figures himself out, he won’t let anything stop him. Every fairytale has to start somewhere� why not the bedroom?

All they have to do is get over their insecurities and admit to each other—and the world—what they really want.

Trace is Book 4 of the Significant Brothers, a feel-good MM romance series. Six best friends from high school are reunited to banter—and occasionally give helpful advice—as, one by one, they each find Mr. Right. Each book can be read as a standalone story and has a guaranteed happily-ever-after ending, and no cliffhanger.]]> 264 E. Davies Amanda 4 4.20 2018 Trace (Significant Brothers, #4)
author: E. Davies
name: Amanda
average rating: 4.20
book published: 2018
rating: 4
read at: 2020/10/14
date added: 2022/03/06
shelves: arcs, audibook, contemporary, first-time, fluffy, found-family, gfy-bfy-ofy, instalove, m-m, opposites-attract, owned-audiobook, series, standalone, sweet, yellow-cover
review:
This series just continues to completely kill it! It’s the perfect amount of fluffy fun with always just a dash of conflict, enough to keep you interested, but not enough to add any unnecessary angst. Dustin and Leo were just so perfect together. They went through so much personal growth and exploration on their journey to love and I just incredibly enjoyed being along for the ride.
]]> <![CDATA[Healed In His Arms (Wildwood Mates, #4)]]> 48723185 A newborn. A sudden illness. No help in sight.

Or so Jaxbelieves. He couldn’t be more wrong because Ryder is there, ready and waiting to lend a hand.

This time, the alpha is offering more than a doctor-patient relationship. He’ll do whatever is necessary to take the relationship with his mate to the next level.

Even if it means hiding how he feels until his Omega is ready.

Jax has been through hell. Can he truly trust that Ryder is ready to offer him everything� a true partner,a life of happiness, and a doting alpha father for his child?

Unspoken dreams do come true. Finally, Jax is happy.

Then tragedy strikes, taking both Jax and their child away from Wildwood. Desperate, Ryder puts aside his oath to ‘do no harm.� He’llstop at nothing to find his family.

Will Ryder be able to find Jax in time?

Ryder is a man on a mission, and he doesn’t care what path he needs to take, as long as it leads him to his family.


]]> 138 Skye R. Richmond Amanda 4
I’ve been really looking forward to Jax and Ryder’s story and it did not disappoint. We saw Jazz go through so much in the previous books and he so deserved his HEA. And while it was a bumpy road to get there, Ryder was the perfect mate for him. He was sweet, caring, and everything Jax and Tabby needed in their lives. Such a sweet series with just enough action to keep you turning pages as you don’t want to put it down before you find out what happens next! ]]> 4.15 Healed In His Arms (Wildwood Mates, #4)
author: Skye R. Richmond
name: Amanda
average rating: 4.15
book published:
rating: 4
read at: 2021/05/10
date added: 2022/03/06
shelves: arcs, fated-mates, fluffy, found-family, hurt-comfort, instalove, m-m, mm-romance, opposites-attract, released-in-2021, romance, series, shifters, sweet, red-cover
review:
3.5 stars!

I’ve been really looking forward to Jax and Ryder’s story and it did not disappoint. We saw Jazz go through so much in the previous books and he so deserved his HEA. And while it was a bumpy road to get there, Ryder was the perfect mate for him. He was sweet, caring, and everything Jax and Tabby needed in their lives. Such a sweet series with just enough action to keep you turning pages as you don’t want to put it down before you find out what happens next!
]]> <![CDATA[Cameron Wants to Be a Hero (Love, Austen, #2)]]> 57492721 Lake: Did you get his number this time?
Cameron: Yes. But I'm not sure I should use it so soon.
Lake: What's soon? Didn't you last see him yesterday?
Cameron: I thought you're meant to wait three days? Otherwise it looks desperate.
Lake: You are desperate.
Cameron: Thanks.
Lake: From everything you've told me, sounds like this could be something.
Cameron: You think?
Lake: Message him. Keep it sexy.

When it comes to romance books, Cameron Morland can always read between the lines.
When it comes to real romance, he may need a dictionary.

Or Jane.

It's Northanger Abbey, complete with a neo-gothic mansion and charming misunderstandings. But contemporary. And gay.]]> 302 Anyta Sunday Amanda 5
This series is just making me so happy. Once I start reading, I honestly am unable to put the books down, and I read with a smile on my face the entire time. Like I said with the previous book, I have not read any Jane Austen, but it definitely did not take away from my enjoyment at all. It's a full story on it's own, and Cameron and Henry really shone. Sunday wrote 2 of the most endearing characters ever while also having 2 of the most obnoxious characters ever and it made for such a great well-rounded story. Lovely story, slow-burn and adorable romance, and some super cute illustrations. I originally picked up this series because I think the covers are absolutely phenomenal, but I will now continue for the amazing stories I'm finding inside. ]]> 3.72 2021 Cameron Wants to Be a Hero (Love, Austen, #2)
author: Anyta Sunday
name: Amanda
average rating: 3.72
book published: 2021
rating: 5
read at: 2021/05/13
date added: 2022/03/06
shelves: pirates-2021, 2021-favorites, arcs, awkward-mc, contemporary, favorite-authors, favorite-series, first-time, fluffy, friends-to-lovers, gfy-bfy-ofy, m-m, mm-romance, released-in-2021, romance, series, standalone, sweet, blue-cover
review:
4.5 Stars!

This series is just making me so happy. Once I start reading, I honestly am unable to put the books down, and I read with a smile on my face the entire time. Like I said with the previous book, I have not read any Jane Austen, but it definitely did not take away from my enjoyment at all. It's a full story on it's own, and Cameron and Henry really shone. Sunday wrote 2 of the most endearing characters ever while also having 2 of the most obnoxious characters ever and it made for such a great well-rounded story. Lovely story, slow-burn and adorable romance, and some super cute illustrations. I originally picked up this series because I think the covers are absolutely phenomenal, but I will now continue for the amazing stories I'm finding inside.
]]> <![CDATA[Cosplay Killer (London Podcast Mystery, #1)]]> 53554283
Osian Garey and Dannel Ortea live together in a colourful flat in Covent Garden. They run a podcast and throw themselves wholeheartedly into Cosplay, video games, and musical theatre. This year, they’re all fired up to attend their annual convention with a group of first responders.

When Osian finds a paramedic friend murdered in the middle of the crowded venue, the police immediately turn their attention to him.

They have one question on their mind.

Is he the first witness on the scene or the killer?

As the mystery unfolds, Osian has to face the trauma of his last job as a paramedic. Somewhere in those memories, a killer waits to exact revenge. They’ll have to prove Osian’s innocence and fight for their own survival when the killer puts them both in their sights.]]> 211 Dahlia Donovan 1922359335 Amanda 4
I also want to point out to anyone new to Donovan, this is an own voices book so it, along with a lot of Donovan’s other works, has wonderful and realistic autism representation.]]> 3.67 2020 Cosplay Killer (London Podcast Mystery, #1)
author: Dahlia Donovan
name: Amanda
average rating: 3.67
book published: 2020
rating: 4
read at: 2020/12/04
date added: 2022/03/06
shelves: arcs, contemporary, established-couple, fade-to-black, m-m, mystery, owned-kindle, series, standalone, suspense, blue-cover
review:
Something about Donovan’s writing just completely clicks with me. I enjoyed this cozy-ish (I think it fits the bill technically, but felt a little grittier than a typical cozy to me) mystery immensely and was completely engrossed in the story. Oz (Osian) and Danny (Dannel) were both such completely likeable characters IMO, and while I usually like a more prominent romance plot, I felt it worked without it here as I could definitely see and feel these two’s love for each other. The mystery was interesting, if a little predictable in the final whodunnit, and had enough suspense to keep me on the edge of my seat. I look forward to many more (a girl can hope) books in this series!

I also want to point out to anyone new to Donovan, this is an own voices book so it, along with a lot of Donovan’s other works, has wonderful and realistic autism representation.
]]> <![CDATA[The Vampire's Familiar (Familiar Mates, #2)]]> 53520804
Twenty years after fleeing Madison Gully as a scared sixteen-year-old, after witnessing his sister’s murder, Kirk Gracewell returns as a powerful energy vampire. He wants to find the cougar shifter who killed her and make them pay.

Every ten years, the Madison cougars get together. It’s a time of celebration to meet new partners but also for the seer announce who’ll get the greatest honor any of them can receive: becoming a familiar to a witch.

When the seer gives Sage the task of watching the vampire that’s suddenly arrived, Sage feels slighted; it’s a job for a much younger cougar. But he comes to enjoy the games of cat and mouse he plays with Kirk. Until he learns why the vampire is in Madison Gully. Now Sage will have to choose: protect his family or help Kirk find the killer.

But the killer will stop at nothing to prove to the seer the honor of familiar is his, claim a witch, and bury the past.]]> 195 T.J. Nichols Amanda 4 4.10 2020 The Vampire's Familiar (Familiar Mates, #2)
author: T.J. Nichols
name: Amanda
average rating: 4.10
book published: 2020
rating: 4
read at: 2020/05/24
date added: 2022/03/06
shelves: arcs, fantasy-paranormal, fated-mates, m-m, magic-witches-wizards, series, shifters, standalone, blue-cover
review:
Oooh I liked this better than the first one and now I’m really into this series. I feel like here we got a better look at the familiar bond, and more information on all the magical people. The world building is still expanding and I am into it. The mystery in this one was a little more obvious, but I think the romance was better and for me that’s always gonna be the more important of the two lol. I loved that a vampire isn’t at all what we would expect, and how it was a completely new take. The I love you’s were a little abrupt, but I really liked Kirk and Sage, and like them even better together.
]]> <![CDATA[The Detective's Familiar (Familiar Mates, #5)]]> 55473508
Detective Mark Buchan knows he’s screwed things up with his husband, but he never expected Sam to leave. Now there’s a killer targeting witches, and Mark is worried he’s next. He needs Sam’s help one last time.

Sam agrees, but only because if Mark dies, he’ll pine away because of the bond. He hasn’t forgiven Mark, and he won’t forget. And the last thing he wants is to fall in love, again, with the man who broke his heart.

This time Mark will do anything to prove to Sam that he’s worth the trouble. Even surrendering his magic.

For readers who like second chance romance, werewolves and fated mates.]]> 184 T.J. Nichols Amanda 3 3.91 The Detective's Familiar (Familiar Mates, #5)
author: T.J. Nichols
name: Amanda
average rating: 3.91
book published:
rating: 3
read at: 2021/03/13
date added: 2022/03/06
shelves: uno-2020, angst, arcs, established-couple, fantasy-paranormal, fated-mates, m-m, magic-witches-wizards, mm-romance, mystery, released-in-2021, romance, second-chance, series, standalone, red-cover
review:
While this was a good book, and I'm absolutely loving how the series is becoming interconnected with a mysterious plotline, this book ultimately was the weakest in my opinion. Although, I know that's definitely a me thing, and not a book thing. For me, when there is a fated mates bond, I want both MCs to completely revel in it, and that's definitely not the case here. [spoilers removed]. There was also a pretty pervasive sense of melancholy, and I felt like the HEA came abruptly, would've definitely enjoyed a strong epilogue. Overall a good stepping stone for the series as a whole, and I really do enjoy this world that Nichols has created, but ultimately not really the book for me.
]]> <![CDATA[Is There Still Room in Your Life for Me?]]> 57186784
Chef and Restaurateur Jake Ruiz left Newport, Washington and never looked back. After his parents had practically disowned him for being gay, the town was nothing but bad memories for Jake.

But, years later, a family emergency brings him back to his hometown. Grappling with the death of his husband and suddenly finding himself a single father to his five-year-old, Jake also has to now deal with his disapproving mother, his ailing father, a crumbling family restaurant and the sudden reintroduction of Jake’s childhood crush into his life, Colton Humphrey. Before he knows it, the feelings that Jake once had for Colt begin to resurface and Jake begins to wonder if perhaps Newport could be in his future as well.]]> 298 Will Manwill 1736619810 Amanda 4
A really well written debut novel that centers around second chances, the family you're born with, and the family you make along the way. I really enjoyed the first 2/3 of this book. I thought there was really well used flashbacks to really get to know Jake, his family relationships, and his history with Colt. Then when you get to Colt's chapters, you get the entire story and realize how many missed opportunities there really was for these too. I found it beautifully written and was really rooting for it all to work out for the two MCs. The last 1/3 where the MCs were actually together unfortunately didn't work as much for me. I just felt like there wasn't much of a story anymore and it started to drag. Overall I enjoyed it, and think it was a special story that isn't always written, and will look for more from this author in the future. ]]> 4.14 2021 Is There Still Room in Your Life for Me?
author: Will Manwill
name: Amanda
average rating: 4.14
book published: 2021
rating: 4
read at: 2021/04/03
date added: 2022/03/06
shelves: uno-2020, arcs, contemporary, fade-to-black, found-family, friends-to-lovers, gfy-bfy-ofy, m-m, mm-romance, released-in-2021, romance, second-chance, small-town, standalone, blue-cover
review:
3.5 Stars!

A really well written debut novel that centers around second chances, the family you're born with, and the family you make along the way. I really enjoyed the first 2/3 of this book. I thought there was really well used flashbacks to really get to know Jake, his family relationships, and his history with Colt. Then when you get to Colt's chapters, you get the entire story and realize how many missed opportunities there really was for these too. I found it beautifully written and was really rooting for it all to work out for the two MCs. The last 1/3 where the MCs were actually together unfortunately didn't work as much for me. I just felt like there wasn't much of a story anymore and it started to drag. Overall I enjoyed it, and think it was a special story that isn't always written, and will look for more from this author in the future.
]]> <![CDATA[His Accidental Shamrock Omega (Omega Holidays, #3)]]> 57956661
Heavily pregnant omega Liam “Lucky� Moriarty isn’t living up to his name. When his sons� A-Mom falsely accuses him of child abuse, he runs from the Omega Center to keep his kids from child protective services. Homeless and desperate, his family takes up residence in Rosetown Mall. When Lucky meets mall security guard Kellen Murphy, everything he’s ever believed about love gets turned on its head. He wants to fall for the hero alpha of his dreams. The problem is, Kellen’s hot on the case of finding the mystery mall thief, and every part of Lucky’s existence is threatened. Can Lucky get back on his feet in time to escape discovery and make Kellen his?

Kellen Murphy’s an alpha who ’t seem to get what he wants in life; to make a difference, to be a hero, to be the alpha of someone’s dreams. He ready for a family, but he ’t find the omega that’s ready for him; that is, until he stumbles on pregnant omega Lucky and his sons. As Kellen tries to convince Lucky to give him a chance, he learns of an after-hours thief in the mall. Kellen needs to prove he can keep Lucky and his sons safe, and he’ll stop at nothing to catch the thief. What happens when his own protective instincts uncover Lucky’s secrets?

Will Kellen discover Lucky’s the mall resident? Can Kellen win Lucky’s trust and earn himself a ready-made family? Can Lucky convince himself he deserves a good thing?

This book is about 70,000 words and has a HEA. 18+ readers only, please! This book contains occasional strong language, MPREG, and hot, spicy grownup-times. The omegas are heating up and the alphas are very knotty boys. Get a FREE short story when you join the newsletter family!]]> 235 Ava Beringer Amanda 4
This was new to me author, and I’m not the biggest fan of the cover, but I’ve been wanting some cute fluffy omegaverse lately so I decided to give this one a shot; and I’m so glad I did! This was cute, instalove to the extreme, quirky, and at times laugh out loud funny. It did feel at times that it was a little too long and I think it could’ve been trimmed down, but I still enjoyed it immensely. If you’re looking for a cute omegaverse story with charming characters and just an all around sweet story this may just be the book for you! I know I’ll definitely check out more of this series and from this author in the future. ]]> 4.31 His Accidental Shamrock Omega (Omega Holidays, #3)
author: Ava Beringer
name: Amanda
average rating: 4.31
book published:
rating: 4
read at: 2021/05/18
date added: 2022/03/06
shelves: arcs, cute-kids, fluffy, found-family, funny, instalove, m-m, mm-romance, mpreg, omegaverse, released-in-2021, romance, series, standalone, sweet, green-cover
review:
3.5 stars!

This was new to me author, and I’m not the biggest fan of the cover, but I’ve been wanting some cute fluffy omegaverse lately so I decided to give this one a shot; and I’m so glad I did! This was cute, instalove to the extreme, quirky, and at times laugh out loud funny. It did feel at times that it was a little too long and I think it could’ve been trimmed down, but I still enjoyed it immensely. If you’re looking for a cute omegaverse story with charming characters and just an all around sweet story this may just be the book for you! I know I’ll definitely check out more of this series and from this author in the future.
]]> <![CDATA[Once a Gentleman (Love in Portsmouth, #2)]]> 58908412
Andrew Turner serves honorably in the Royal Navy, but when ashore he wastes his fortune and his time on an endless round of drinking, cards, and…other pleasures. He appreciates his new secretary’s slim body and pretty green eyes more than he ought, but he’s also struck by Kit’s quick wit and clever mind. To Andrew’s shock, he finds himself wanting more than a tumble. But that’s inconvenient. It’s irritating. And Kit won’t bed him anyway.

Trying to convince Kit that he’s more than just a debauched wastrel takes some doing, but once desire overrides Kit’s common sense, their attraction explodes into passion. Just as Kit dares to believe in Andrew’s love, Andrew’s ship is sent on a mission to the Continent. Will separation, worry, and fear tear them apart or will love bind them to one another forever?

This is the second book in a series, but it can be read as a standalone. Contains debauchery galore, a footman who wants to murder the butler, love letters, and gratuitous references to Gothic novels…and of course, a guaranteed HEA.]]> 295 Eliot Grayson Amanda 4
I'm not always big on historicals, but I'm always big on Eliot's works and you find all the hallmarks of her works here. Snarky characters, smoking hot chemistry, and wonderful writing all make for a great story. A big surprise to me was that it was Andrew that I liked from the beginning and it took me a long while to warm up to Kit. I usually like the buttoned-up snarky part of the pair, but Andrew was just so authentic to who he was (which was often a hot mess), that I enjoyed him from the beginning. As more of Kit's past unfolds, my heart softened for him and I definitely understood why he was such a prickly little guy. Definitely another win by Grayson and I look forward to continuing the series!]]> 4.02 2021 Once a Gentleman (Love in Portsmouth, #2)
author: Eliot Grayson
name: Amanda
average rating: 4.02
book published: 2021
rating: 4
read at: 2021/09/04
date added: 2022/03/06
shelves: arcs, boss-employee, historical, injury, m-m, mm-romance, military, opposites-attract, released-in-2021, romance, series, steamy, standalone, you-sound-like-youre-from-london, blue-cover
review:
3.5 Stars!

I'm not always big on historicals, but I'm always big on Eliot's works and you find all the hallmarks of her works here. Snarky characters, smoking hot chemistry, and wonderful writing all make for a great story. A big surprise to me was that it was Andrew that I liked from the beginning and it took me a long while to warm up to Kit. I usually like the buttoned-up snarky part of the pair, but Andrew was just so authentic to who he was (which was often a hot mess), that I enjoyed him from the beginning. As more of Kit's past unfolds, my heart softened for him and I definitely understood why he was such a prickly little guy. Definitely another win by Grayson and I look forward to continuing the series!
]]> <![CDATA[Against the Grain: A Human's Guide to Wooing an Asexual Incubi]]> 58242637
Ellian has a problem, and its name is Felix Masters. When Ellie, a high society succubus, joins Against the Grain, he has a foolproof plan: attend the support group for supernatural misfits, discover the secret to correcting his� abnormality, and then return to the Incubi compound to join his incubus betrothed. It is a good plan—it is the only plan. Because failure is not an option, not this time. For once in Ellie’s controlled, suffocated existence, he will bring honor to his family name, regardless of the personal cost. That is, as long as a sweet, sweaty human does not mess up his carefully laid plans.

Felix Masters has a problem, and its name is Ellian. Felix never meant to stumble into a therapy group for magical oddballs, but when a beautiful periwinkle boy with sad eyes defends him against a feral vampire, Felix’s world changes forever. Magic, glamour, and succubus tails are only the beginning, and the more he learns about Ellie and his mystical, albeit unjust life, the harder it is for him to fight the Incubi’s magnetic pull. Felix has always had a weakness for a pretty face, after all—and periwinkle happens to be his favorite color.

An asexual succubus trapped by fate and expectation. An insecure human desperate to set him free. Join Felix and Ellie as they—with a little bit of magic and a lot of luck—find acceptance, courage, and unconditional love in the one place they never expected: each other.

Against the Grain is a shared world trilogy full of awkward characters, hilarious meet-cutes, and hard-fought happily ever afters. Each book in this urban fantasy rom-com can be read as a standalone.

Possible triggering material includes: Supernatural culture “norms� that border on child abuse (past), emotional abuse, and dubious consent (non-graphic/off-page). One character struggles with a form of gender dysphoria and self-harm manifesting in a type of eating disorder. Side note: mpreg exists in this magical race/universe, but it is not featured on page or experienced by the main characters.]]> 194 Nik Knight Amanda 4
And I think that kind of gets to the crux of this novel, and it was one about accepting who you are, no matter what box you were born in or which box is the one you actually fit comfortably in. Felix and Elian were the perfect characters to go through this story with. They were cute, charming, insecure (the fact I haven’t already mentioned that Felix is a plus sized MC is a crime because I adored that), and just all around lovely characters. I laughed, I cried, and just fell for this beautiful story.

Complete side note: Amazon has this at 90 pages right now but something is seriously wrong with their page count algorithm. The paperback page count is much more reflective of the actual length, so don’t go into this thinking you’re reading a novella. ]]> 4.27 2021 Against the Grain: A Human's Guide to Wooing an Asexual Incubi
author: Nik Knight
name: Amanda
average rating: 4.27
book published: 2021
rating: 4
read at: 2022/02/23
date added: 2022/02/23
shelves: 2021-favorites, ace-mc, angst, arcs, fantasy-paranormal, found-family, friends-to-lovers, hurt-comfort, m-m, mm-romance, opposites-attract, released-in-2021, romance, standalone, sweet, uno2022
review:
Okay so from the blurb and cover I expected this to be light, fluffy, maybe even silly (in a good way) and while it had moments of all those things it was soooo much deeper than that. It dealt with gender dysphoria on such a deep level which was unexpected but in my opinion was done very well (however, I am a cis woman so my opinion does not matter here and take all of that with a whole mountain of salt). Still Knight’s writing was so powerful and thought provoking that I truly felt like I was on Ellie’s journey with him. The enjoyed the way the ace rep was done as well, since it seems most books that deal with ace rep go straight to the sex-averse side of asexuality, while it was treated differently here without ever making it seem like there was one way to be asexual.

And I think that kind of gets to the crux of this novel, and it was one about accepting who you are, no matter what box you were born in or which box is the one you actually fit comfortably in. Felix and Elian were the perfect characters to go through this story with. They were cute, charming, insecure (the fact I haven’t already mentioned that Felix is a plus sized MC is a crime because I adored that), and just all around lovely characters. I laughed, I cried, and just fell for this beautiful story.

Complete side note: Amazon has this at 90 pages right now but something is seriously wrong with their page count algorithm. The paperback page count is much more reflective of the actual length, so don’t go into this thinking you’re reading a novella.
]]> <![CDATA[Hero (Wolves of Royal Paynes #1)]]> 53928636
Knox knows all the five of them have left now is each other. That, and the driving desire to find who had slaughtered their pack and make that person pay.

But investigating a tragedy with only rubble as evidence requires money and time. Knox can find one and use it to buy the other. They may be the last remaining members of a once thriving pack, but they are no strangers to taking the types of jobs that would keep lesser men awake at night.

Finding and returning some young punk to his rich, asshole father shouldn’t be all that difficult.

Jazz Whitten lives as he likes, always. Since leaving home when he was young, he’s operated under a single rule, never stay where you aren’t wanted. Using his unique ability and the sleight of hand he’s perfected over the years, life as a fugitive isn’t that bad. It’s lonely at times, but freedom is more important than companionship.

But when Jazz comes head to head with the latest team hired by his father, he forgets his own rule. He knows it is money, not affection that keeps the team on his tail. Their leader, Knox, is merciless and focused, but there’s something else about the man. It isn’t his kindness—Knox is a brute and unfortunately for Jazz, he’s smart too—but Knox radiates a type of pain that Jazz is all too familiar with.

Jazz is as slippery as he is sexy and it takes every trick Knox has to catch up with him. But when he does, how will the stone-cold mercenary ever give him up?

Hero is the first book in the Wolves of Royal Paynes series. It is an action-packed, swelteringly hot, mpreg romance that introduces a world of intrigue, mystery, and magic. For maximum enjoyment, this series should be read in order.

Wolves of Royal Paynes is the second series in the Wolves of World. Though the series are connected, they may be read on their own for maximum enjoyment..]]> 332 Kiki Burrelli Amanda 5 4.16 2020 Hero (Wolves of Royal Paynes #1)
author: Kiki Burrelli
name: Amanda
average rating: 4.16
book published: 2020
rating: 5
read at: 2022/02/19
date added: 2022/02/20
shelves: arcs, enemies-to-lovers, fantasy-paranormal, favorite-authors, found-family, hurt-comfort, instalove, m-m, mpreg, opposites-attract, series, shifters, small-town, uno2022
review:
4.5 stars! While this book stands alone just fine, I highly suggest reading the Wolves of Walker County series to get the full experience. Ever since we got a cover reveal of this book, I’ve been looking forward to it; and I was in no way disappointed! Jazz might just be my favorite character from the two series, and I think Knox was the absolutely perfect choice for him in a mate. There’s a lot of heartbreak in this story and these men’s past, but it made it all the more sweeter to watch everyone rebuild together. This band of mercenaries who just want to have someone to protect again make a perfect group for a new series and I look forward to getting each of their stories!
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