Has's bookshelf: all en-US Fri, 14 Mar 2025 18:06:16 -0700 60 Has's bookshelf: all 144 41 /images/layout/goodreads_logo_144.jpg <![CDATA[Archangel's Ascension (Guild Hunter, #17)]]> 217245649
Finally reunited in New York, they must now learn to navigate the monumental shift in their relationship. But for these two members of Archangel Raphael’s legendary Seven, there is no time to rest. As they investigate a case for the Tower that echoes the darkness from Aodhan’s past, they will be forced to confront not only the scars that mark them both, but the promise of a vast power that flickers in Illium.

The threat of ascension has haunted and troubled Aodhan’s Blue for too long, the forces of change immutable and without mercy...and uncaring of Illium’s fierce wish to remain part of the Seven. Change is a constant in an immortal’s life, and this new horizon will bring with it both terrible heartbreak and a joy extraordinary enough to reverberate through time…]]> 416 Nalini Singh 059355003X Has 0 to-read 4.38 2025 Archangel's Ascension (Guild Hunter, #17)
author: Nalini Singh
name: Has
average rating: 4.38
book published: 2025
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/03/14
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> <![CDATA[This Kingdom Will Not Kill Me (Maggie the Undying, #1)]]> 220061020 Game of Thrones meets Outlander in This Kingdom Will Not Kill Me

When Maggie wakes up, cold, naked, and filthy in Kair Toren, a city in the kingdom of Rellas, she recognizes it immediately. It’s the world she knows intimately from the pages of an unfinished dark fantasy series she’s been obsessively reading and re-reading while waiting years for the final novel. With no idea how or why she landed in this gritty, violent world, she’s determined to survive until she can figure out how to get home with her only tools � an encyclopedic knowledge of the plot, setting, and the characters� actions, motivations, and fates: information she can sell to the highest bidder � all while staying under the radar so as not to change the very information she plans to barter.

Soon Maggie discovers another surprising “skill�: she cannot be killed (though many will try.) And as she becomes more attached to the motley band she’s somehow gathered � which includes a former lady’s maid, a deadly assassin, a dangerous soldier, and various outrageous magic creatures � she abandons all thoughts of lying low for her own good. Instead she finds herself trying to save them, and the Kingdom of Rellas from the cataclysmic war she knows is coming.]]> Ilona Andrews Has 0 to-read 5.00 2026 This Kingdom Will Not Kill Me (Maggie the Undying, #1)
author: Ilona Andrews
name: Has
average rating: 5.00
book published: 2026
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/03/14
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> Frozen Heart 222875515
He’s utterly gorgeous. Completely ruthless. The Russian mafia boss everyone’s afraid of.

I shouldn’t be attracted to this man. But then he buys the building so my bookstore doesn’t have to close. Kills any man who touches me. And looks at me with a gaze that melts the clothes from my body. He growls in my ear that he’s a monster I should run from, but neither of us can resist. We give in for one crazy night�.

Then I see too much and Radimir has to choose: kill me, or force a ring onto my finger.

Now I’m living in his penthouse and the calendar’s counting down the days to our wedding. I start to see a side of him no one else does. This monster has a heart…and I’m falling for him.

Now we’re trapped in a web of lies with his enemies closing in. No one thinks a curvy, bookish woman like me can survive in the brutal world of the Bratva. But I’ve been underestimated my entire life. I’ll do whatever it takes, become the mafia queen he needs me to be. This is my story and I’m fighting for my happy-ever-after.]]> 408 Helena Newbury 1914526260 Has 0 to-read 4.29 Frozen Heart
author: Helena Newbury
name: Has
average rating: 4.29
book published:
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/01/06
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> Priestess 204988997
Content Warnings
Religious trauma. Infertility. Sexual assault. Homophobia. Self harm. Violence. Suicidal ideation. Two mentions of death in childbirth.]]> 589 Kara Voorhees Reynolds Has 0 to-read 4.52 2024 Priestess
author: Kara Voorhees Reynolds
name: Has
average rating: 4.52
book published: 2024
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/01/02
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> Paradise-1 (Red Space, #1) 61634435
It doesn't take much time to learn that they've been met by another vessel—a vessel from Paradis-One, Earth's first deep-space colony, and their final destination.

Worse still, the vessel is empty. And it carries with it the message that all communications from the 150,000 souls inhabiting the Paradis-One has completely ceased.

Petrov and Zhang must board the empty ship and delve further into deep space to discover the truth of the colony's disappearance—but the further they go, the more dangers loom.]]> 681 David Wellington 031649674X Has 0 3.80 2023 Paradise-1 (Red Space, #1)
author: David Wellington
name: Has
average rating: 3.80
book published: 2023
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/01/01
shelves: horror, sci-fi, currently-reading
review:

]]> <![CDATA[Lights Out (Into Darkness, #1)]]> 201017011 “I don’t need another kink.�

That thought pops into my head whenever I pull up my favorite social media app, but alas, every time I scroll, I learn something new about myself, and another one is born. And yes, I know I’m responsible for what the algorithm shows me, but I’m trying to ignore that fact.

Lately, my feed has been dominated by masked men. I’ve favorited videos with them dressed in full cosplay, decked out in futuristic military apparel, and wrapped up like ghouls.

But more than anything else, my FYP is filled with shirtless men wearing ghost masks. Bonus points if they’re heavily tattooed, wielding a knife, or covered in fake blood. At night, I dream about being chased by them, of them catching me and doing deliciously dark things to my more than willing body.

I never could have guessed that by sending one drunken text, those dreams would become my new reality.

Lights Out is a fast-paced dark romance with a morally grey male lead. Some themes and scenes may be disturbing to readers. Please check the TWs at the beginning of the book. ]]> 338 Navessa Allen Has 0 to-read 4.17 2024 Lights Out (Into Darkness, #1)
author: Navessa Allen
name: Has
average rating: 4.17
book published: 2024
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/01/01
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> The Horde King of Shadow 219665645 The fearsome creature came from across Drukkar’s Sea…and there was a rider on its back.

As a scholar in Dothik’s library, Klara has spent her life trying to understand the strange dreams that have plagued her since she was a child—visions of dragons and a world with no written record. Rejected by her royal bloodline after her mother’s death, Klara hides her chilling secret, knowing her rare magic could get her killed.

But when a dragon suddenly appears in Dothik, those dreams become a monstrous reality.

Sarkin Dirak’zar, king of the Sarrothian horde, cares only about finding heartstones—the dwindling power source for their revered dragons. Ice-cold and merciless, the last thing Sarkin wants is a wife, especially a weak and unwanted princess who likely won’t last one night on dragonback. Yet the key to acquiring heartstones lies in Klara’s visions, and so he gives her a cruel choice: marry him to save her people…or let Dothik burn.

Her first duty as queen? Claim a dragon of her own. What’s even more alarming is that unexpected desire begins to simmer with her beguiling but guarded husband...even though his barbed cage of a heart is only meant to keep her away.]]> Zoey Draven Has 5 4.05 2024 The Horde King of Shadow
author: Zoey Draven
name: Has
average rating: 4.05
book published: 2024
rating: 5
read at: 2024/12/31
date added: 2024/12/31
shelves:
review:

]]> <![CDATA[Throne of the Horde King (Horde Kings of Dakkar, #6)]]> 215085999 The final book of the Horde Kings of Dakkar series is here�

High in the icy northlands of Dakkar, I’ve lived a sheltered, predictable, and safe life. My days are spent caring for an ancient temple and staying out of the priestesses� way. My nights are spent pouring over the great stories of warrior kings and the queens that stole their hearts.

But I have a secret.

I’m a hybrid female. Half-Dakkari, half-human, the first of my kind. The priestesses have risked everything to keep me hidden from the dangerous hordes that roam the wild lands and the greedy king that sits on the throne in Dothik. I am the secret they could never let free.

Then a horde king—with molten eyes and the body of a battle god—shows up at the temple’s gates, demanding entry.

He’s the one I see in my dreams, all ruthless, merciless strength and a tempting smirk to match. Only, he’s not the gentle male I always imagined. He’s cunning, sensual, cruel…and he thinks that everything has a price. Even me.

With a growing danger in the east and a precarious throne in the west, he steals me away from the sacred temple with daring plans all his own.

He thinks I’m a naive temple girl, who will bend easily to his demands. Instead, I fight him at every turn, showing him claws of my own. Instead of fear, lust begins to rise between us—hot, addicting, and forbidden. His teasing touch makes me tremble. His stolen kisses make me weak.

But the horde king of Rath Serok is as mysterious as he is devilish.

And he has his own secret…one that will forever change the future of Dakkar.]]> Zoey Draven Has 5 4.22 2022 Throne of the Horde King (Horde Kings of Dakkar, #6)
author: Zoey Draven
name: Has
average rating: 4.22
book published: 2022
rating: 5
read at: 2024/11/27
date added: 2024/12/31
shelves: alien-heroes, alpha-heroes, alphaholes-ahoy, book-crack, sci-fi-romance
review:

]]> <![CDATA[The Testaments (The Handmaid's Tale, #2)]]> 42975172 The Handmaid's Tale, readers had no way of telling what lay ahead for her--freedom, prison or death.

With The Testaments, the wait is over.

Margaret Atwood's sequel picks up the story more than fifteen years after Offred stepped into the unknown, with the explosive testaments of three female narrators from Gilead.

In this brilliant sequel to The Handmaid's Tale, acclaimed author Margaret Atwood answers the questions that have tantalized readers for decades.

"Dear Readers: Everything you've ever asked me about Gilead and its inner workings is the inspiration for this book. Well, almost everything! The other inspiration is the world we've been living in." --Margaret Atwood

An alternate cover edition of ISBN 978-0385543781 can be found here.]]> 422 Margaret Atwood Has 4 4.16 2019 The Testaments (The Handmaid's Tale, #2)
author: Margaret Atwood
name: Has
average rating: 4.16
book published: 2019
rating: 4
read at: 2024/12/31
date added: 2024/12/31
shelves:
review:

]]> <![CDATA[Captive of the Horde King (Horde Kings of Dakkar, #1)]]> 215085760 She made a deal with the Dakkari devil. Now, he owns her.

On the unforgiving planet of Dakkar, I did what all the humans in our village did: kept my head down, worked to provide for my family, and I certainly didn’t break any Dakkari laws to risk inciting the alien race’s merciless wrath.

Unfortunately, the same couldn’t be said for my brother and one careless mistake brings a horde of the nomadic, barbarian Dakkari straight to our doorstep, led by their powerful horde king—a cold, ruthless, battle-scarred warrior demanding retribution.

In order to save my brother’s life, I do the unthinkable.

I sell myself to the horde king as his war prize. I agree to warm his furs, to travel with his horde across the wild lands of Dakkar, and to never see my family again.

But as I struggle with my new reality, I discover that the surly, mysterious, dominant horde king never intended for me to be his concubine�

He wants me as his queen.]]> 327 Zoey Draven Has 5 3.70 2019 Captive of the Horde King (Horde Kings of Dakkar, #1)
author: Zoey Draven
name: Has
average rating: 3.70
book published: 2019
rating: 5
read at: 2024/12/30
date added: 2024/12/31
shelves:
review:

]]> Kyro (Captured by Aliens #5) 54527880 —exactly the way Evren had seen her year going.

Not.

Add living on a base full of rebels and, well, whoever was in charge of her destiny was definitely having some fun.

She’d probably have to become an intergalactic rebel too…except, was that the path she was meant to take?

In the middle of figuring out her role in this new life, Evren finds herself drawing closer to a rebel that had rescued her: a tall, sexy alien named Kyro, whose presence makes her tingle in places that could get her in trouble.

He pulls her in a way she can’t understand—especially considering that he’s…strange.

He’s different from the others and that’s probably because he’s holding a secret—and not even his brothers in the fight know about it.

It’s a secret so deep, she needs to stay away.

For her safety and for his.

…But how can she resist when he keeps looking at her as if she belongs to him?

Kyro is a full-length standalone sci-fi romance featuring an alien rebel, a lovable heroine, and a possessive hero who would do anything to protect the one he declares as his own.

If you like sexy aliens, discovering new worlds, and steamy romance, check out Kyro. This standalone book contains steamy sex scenes with a guaranteed happily ever after, no cheating, and no cliffhanger.

The Captured by Aliens series:
Book 1: Xul
Book 2: Crex
Book 3: Yce
Book 4: Kyris
Book 5: Kyro (current book)]]> 320 A.G. Wilde Has 3 4.15 Kyro (Captured by Aliens #5)
author: A.G. Wilde
name: Has
average rating: 4.15
book published:
rating: 3
read at: 2024/12/24
date added: 2024/12/31
shelves:
review:

]]> Kyris (Captured by Aliens #4) 53429768
One moment, she's about to complete school with her whole life ahead of her; the next, she is thrown into an out-of-this-world nightmare.

On a world where she is hunted, she leans on the one constant that has been there from the start�

Him.

Kyris.

Her guardian angel�

Or so she thinks.

What he wants from her is far from holy…]]> 276 A.G. Wilde Has 3 3.91 Kyris (Captured by Aliens #4)
author: A.G. Wilde
name: Has
average rating: 3.91
book published:
rating: 3
read at: 2024/12/22
date added: 2024/12/31
shelves: alien-heroes, alpha-heroes, sci-fi-romance
review:

]]> Yce (Captured by Aliens #3) 50698087 When she’d left the gym to head home for a quiet night, the last thing she’d expected was to be abducted by aliens to then be thrown into a fight for life and survival aboard an alien slave ship.

Now that chapter is over and there’s another obstacle in her way—surviving on a desert planet where everything lives to kill…all the while dealing with him�

Yce.

The alien she’s stuck with.

He’s otherworldly, strange, and absolutely confusing.

She hates him and the feeling seems to be mutual.

Problem is, they are stuck in each other’s company until they reach the outpost to send a message for help.

Aliens are the reason she’s in this predicament and Yce is probably no better than her captors�

Except he is...he is very different...and that's something not even hate can ignore.

This book contains mature themes and sex. ]]> 216 A.G. Wilde Has 4 4.07 Yce (Captured by Aliens #3)
author: A.G. Wilde
name: Has
average rating: 4.07
book published:
rating: 4
read at: 2024/12/17
date added: 2024/12/31
shelves:
review:

]]> Crex (Captured by Aliens #2) 48917740 There are two types of hell.

The one priests preach about and then this.

Stuck on an alien slave ship, Piper is auctioned and thrown into a cell with � something.

He’s an alien with a reputation.

A warrior. A beast. A killer.

He is dangerous.

A creature with a cold, cold heart…one not unlike her own.

You’d think falling for an alien killing machine was something so far-fetched it would never happen.

Well, so was being abducted out of 7.5 billion other humans on Earth—and that had occurred so�

Hey, what’s the worst that could happen?

]]> 242 A.G. Wilde Has 3 4.02 Crex (Captured by Aliens #2)
author: A.G. Wilde
name: Has
average rating: 4.02
book published:
rating: 3
read at: 2024/12/14
date added: 2024/12/31
shelves:
review:

]]> Xul (Captured by Aliens, #1) 51944777 222 A.G. Wilde Has 4 3.90 2019 Xul (Captured by Aliens, #1)
author: A.G. Wilde
name: Has
average rating: 3.90
book published: 2019
rating: 4
read at: 2024/12/11
date added: 2024/12/31
shelves: alien-heroes, alpha-heroes, sci-fi-romance
review:

]]> Thrum 210835673 Meg Smitherman Has 4 This was a delightful underrated gem with elements of psychological horror and sci fi that left me guessing on the twists. Even though it was only novella length it packs a punch with its eerie and claustrophobic tone.]]> 3.98 2024 Thrum
author: Meg Smitherman
name: Has
average rating: 3.98
book published: 2024
rating: 4
read at: 2024/12/31
date added: 2024/12/31
shelves: alien-heroes, horror, psychological-thrillers, sci-fi, sci-fi-romance
review:
Ami is a scientist on a longterm mission to discover alien life. She awakes from stasis after discovering her small crew have all perished and her ship coms and fuel disabled but she is soon rescued by a mysterious alien called Dorian.
This was a delightful underrated gem with elements of psychological horror and sci fi that left me guessing on the twists. Even though it was only novella length it packs a punch with its eerie and claustrophobic tone.
]]> <![CDATA[Primal Mirror (Psy-Changeling Trinity, #8; Psy-Changeling, #23)]]> 199067471 New York Times bestselling author Nalini Singh takes us into a family dark with shadowy secrets, as the world of the Psy hangs on the edge of a final catastrophic collapse�

Daughter of two ruthless high-gradient telepaths, Auden Scott is not the child her Psy parents wanted or expected, even before her brain injury. Her thoughts are scattered, her memories fuzzy—or just terrifyingly blank. The only thing she knows for certain is that she must protect her unborn baby…a baby she has no recollection of conceiving and who draws an abnormal intensity of notice from her dead mother’s closest associates.

Leopard alpha Remi Denier is a man driven by the primal instinct to protect. Protect his pack, protect his allies� and protect the mysterious woman who has become a most unlikely neighbor. With eerie eyes that see too much and a scent that alters in ways disturbing and impossible, Auden Scott is the enemy…but nothing about this strange Psy is what it seems, Remi’s feline heart as fascinated by her as the human half of his soul.

Then Auden asks Remi to help her shatter the wall of secrets that is the Scott bloodline. What they unearth will reveal a nightmare beyond imagination. This time, the battle is to the death…]]> 400 Nalini Singh Has 4 3.96 2024 Primal Mirror (Psy-Changeling Trinity, #8; Psy-Changeling, #23)
author: Nalini Singh
name: Has
average rating: 3.96
book published: 2024
rating: 4
read at: 2024/07/01
date added: 2024/12/09
shelves:
review:

]]> <![CDATA[A Love Beyond the Stars (S.S. Paradise, #1)]]> 209603831 Aurelia Castillo has spent her whole life looking to the stars. She's looked forward to her first day as a Pilot for years, and it’s finally happening. Her commission is on the newly chartered starship, the S.S. Paradise. Only her new Captain turns out to be a grump who thinks she has no business being a part of his starship's crew, even though she flew through flight school with flying colors. It doesn't quite feel like a paradise when your boss hates you and you're millions of light years away from the only home you've ever known. Until suddenly, he's not looking at her like she's less, but rather, more...

Captain Sylas Kellar didn't see it coming. He didn’t see her coming. Not the daughter of his childhood icon, nor his attraction to her. And he shouldn't, shouldn't want her. It’s his first command as Captain, and he really doesn’t want to screw this up. Not when he has to prove himself to the world. But he can't resist the tension between them, and the ever-constant close proximity between them has him losing his mind. Which begs one what happens when he gives in?

In a world beyond the stars, can the two find a love that will last a lifetime?

A Love Beyond the Stars is a science-fiction romance featuring open-door, explicit sex scenes and adult language. It is a standalone romance featuring a grumpy space captain and his sunshine first pilot falling in love as they travel the galaxy.

Release date not finalized.
space opera, grumpy x sunshine, forbidden relationship, captain x first pilot]]> 380 Jennifer Chipman Has 0 to-read 3.81 A Love Beyond the Stars (S.S. Paradise, #1)
author: Jennifer Chipman
name: Has
average rating: 3.81
book published:
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2024/12/02
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> <![CDATA[Metal Slinger (Fire & Metal, #1)]]> 213309864
Neither is the encounter with an enemy soldier.

Returning home to Alaha, she’s confronted with the aftermath of the day’s events. The future is uncertain as the threat of hunger looms over the people. With rumors of a growing rebellion, Brynn and her closest friends promise to stick together.

When an unexpected visitor arrives, Brynn’s loyalty will be tested as she learns of a world of magic and treachery. Once her enemy, always her enemy, right? But the dark, knowing eyes of a stranger make her question everything�

…including her heart.]]> 497 Rachel Schneider Has 0 4.29 Metal Slinger (Fire & Metal, #1)
author: Rachel Schneider
name: Has
average rating: 4.29
book published:
rating: 0
read at: 2024/12/01
date added: 2024/12/01
shelves:
review:

]]> <![CDATA[Desire in His Blood (Brides of the Kylorr, #1)]]> 63130733
Gemma Hara is drowning under the weight of her father’s debts. Working herself to the bone, she knows that if she doesn’t pay them off in time, the sadistic creditors will take everything: their home, their respected name, and, worst of all, her two beautiful sisters.

To save her family, Gemma agrees to do something reckless: marry a wealthy and mysterious stranger, who offers her a wicked bargain she can’t afford to refuse.

However, his bargain comes with one terrifying catch. Because her husband-to-be is a Kylorr.

One of the most fearsome alien races in the Four Quadrants, the Kylorr are beastly monsters, all muscle and menace, with powerful wings, depraved cravings, and berserker-like rages. The worst part?

They survive on blood.

Cold and cruel, Azur of House Kaalium, the High Lord of Laras, demands Gemma as his blood bride. To feed from her. To use her body in whatever way he wishes. For paying off her family’s debts, he expects her complete submission.

What neither of them predicts is how his bite doesn’t bring pain—it fills Gemma with more exquisite pleasure than she’s ever known. And as she finds her footing on a strange new planet, the one thing Gemma thought she’d never surrender might be at risk after all.

Her heart.

Too bad her new husband can’t seem to decide if he wants to break it…or keep it forever.]]> 428 Zoey Draven Has 4
Really enjoyed the dual narration and I love this series! Can't wait for the third book!]]> 4.16 2022 Desire in His Blood (Brides of the Kylorr, #1)
author: Zoey Draven
name: Has
average rating: 4.16
book published: 2022
rating: 4
read at: 2024/11/24
date added: 2024/11/24
shelves: alien-heroes, alpha-heroes, alphaholes-ahoy, nom-nom-nom-heroes, sci-fi-romance, slow-burn, vampires
review:
Audio book reread.

Really enjoyed the dual narration and I love this series! Can't wait for the third book!
]]> Burn (Dark in You, #1) 25828477
As Prime of his Las Vegas lair and a successful businessman, Knox Thorne is used to being in control. He’s also used to people fearing and obeying him. Harper does neither, which unexpectedly amuses him. Unpredictable, elusive, and complex, she draws Knox and his inner demon like nothing ever has. Knox is used to getting what he wants, and he wants Harper. He’ll have her, and he’ll keep her safe from the threat that looms over her. Because Knox protects what’s his. He won’t allow anyone to take her from him. Even if it will mean letting the demon inside him rise and wreak the havoc it was created to make.]]> 344 Suzanne Wright Has 4
I love this series with the snark and humour along with the heat. I'm not too sure with the narrator but I may pick up the rest of the series in audio.]]> 4.04 2015 Burn (Dark in You, #1)
author: Suzanne Wright
name: Has
average rating: 4.04
book published: 2015
rating: 4
read at: 2024/11/21
date added: 2024/11/21
shelves: alpha-heroes, alphaholes-ahoy, paranormal-romance
review:
Audiobook reread.

I love this series with the snark and humour along with the heat. I'm not too sure with the narrator but I may pick up the rest of the series in audio.
]]> <![CDATA[Taken by the Horde King (Horde Kings of Dakkar, #5)]]> 215086143
As a fatal curse continues to spread over the planet of Dakkar, I make a deal with an alien witch who claims she can stop it.

Her price?

The heart of a horde king.

Only the horde king in question is the fiercest male I’ve ever seen, with glowing demon eyes, a god-like body crafted in battle, and a cold, cruel grin that promises destruction.

Yet when I offer myself to him, all under the premise of luring him back to the witch, his touch sets my blood on fire. His dizzying kiss makes the world spin. Instead of fear, I feel hot and unwanted desire, awakening instincts that tell me I’m his.

When he discovers my ultimate betrayal, the enraged horde king vows he will take me as his prize, that I will wear his chains, and that I will serve him in whatever way he wishes.

And as the dangers on Dakkar loom, I find myself craving my wicked, wicked ruin...all at the hands of a horde king I should’ve never crossed.]]> Zoey Draven Has 5 4.13 2022 Taken by the Horde King (Horde Kings of Dakkar, #5)
author: Zoey Draven
name: Has
average rating: 4.13
book published: 2022
rating: 5
read at: 2024/11/19
date added: 2024/11/20
shelves: alien-heroes, alpha-heroes, alphaholes-ahoy, book-crack, fantasy-romance, sci-fi-romance
review:

]]> <![CDATA[Servant of Earth (The Shards of Magic, #1)]]> 208930983 In the underground Fae realm, only the strongest and most ruthless have power—but a young human woman forced into a life of servitude is about to change everything.

Kenna Heron is best known in her village for being a little wild—some say “half feral”—but she’ll need every ounce of that ferocity to survive captivity in the cruel Fae court.

Trapped as a servant in the faeries� underground kingdom of Mistei, Kenna must help her new mistress undertake six deadly trials, one for each branch of magic: Fire, Earth, Light, Void, Illusion, and Blood. If she succeeds, her mistress will gain immortality and become the heir to Earth House. If she doesn’t, the punishment is death—for both mistress and servant.

With no ally but a sentient dagger of mysterious origins, Kenna must face monsters, magic, and grueling physical tests. But worse dangers wait underground, and soon Kenna gets caught up in a secret rebellion against the inventively sadistic faerie king. When her feelings for the rebellion’s leader turn passionate, Kenna must decide if she’s willing to risk her life for a better world and a chance at happiness.

Surviving the trials and overthrowing a tyrant king will take cunning, courage, and an iron will... but even that may not be enough.]]> 451 Sarah Hawley 0593819799 Has 0 currently-reading 4.21 2024 Servant of Earth (The Shards of Magic, #1)
author: Sarah Hawley
name: Has
average rating: 4.21
book published: 2024
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2024/11/02
shelves: currently-reading
review:

]]> <![CDATA[The Perfect Rake (The Merridew Sisters, #1)]]> 485434
A renowned rake, Gideon, Lord Carradice, has a way of making ladies swoon. But when Prudence arrives at his doorstep and mistakes him for his cousin, the Duke, it is Gideon who’s infatuated. The delightful spitfire claims she and the Duke are engaged—although a taller tale was never told. In spite of the lies, Gideon is so taken with charming Prudence that he’s eager to join her game, especially if it will award him a stolen kiss or two. Now, Prudence’s plot is about to go terribly, albeit deliciously, awry...]]> 360 Anne Gracie 0425203956 Has 4 3.90 2005 The Perfect Rake (The Merridew Sisters, #1)
author: Anne Gracie
name: Has
average rating: 3.90
book published: 2005
rating: 4
read at: 2024/11/01
date added: 2024/11/01
shelves: bad-boy-heroes, historical-romance, humour
review:
Oh, this was a deliciously sweet romance with a redeemable rake that falls heads over heels. I love how Gideon was obsessive, but in a puppy dog way for Prudence. Their banter was sparkling and cute and the audiobook narrator made their romance come alive!
]]> <![CDATA[Wayfarer's Keep (The Broken Lands, #3)]]> 41276998
On the brink of battle with each other, the Pathfinders and Trateri must join forces if they hope to defeat the evil at the heart of the Badlands. As the tension rises between the two peoples, and Shea and her family, Shea and Fallon must convince them to overcome their differences if they are to triumph over impossible odds. Because the beasts may be the least of their worries. Sometimes betrayal comes from within, and the most dangerous monsters may be those closest to them.
]]> 458 T.A. White Has 5 4.27 2018 Wayfarer's Keep (The Broken Lands, #3)
author: T.A. White
name: Has
average rating: 4.27
book published: 2018
rating: 5
read at: 2024/10/27
date added: 2024/11/01
shelves: alpha-heroes, audio, dystopian, fantasy, fantasy-romance, feminist-romance, heroines-who-rock-all-the-ages, post-apocalyptic-romance
review:

]]> <![CDATA[The Night Ends with Fire (The Night Ends with Fire, #1)]]> 201129898 Infused with magic and romance, this sweeping fantasy adventure inspired by the legend of Mulan follows a young woman determined to choose her own destiny—even if that means going against everyone she loves.

The Three Kingdoms are at war, but Meilin’s father refuses to answer the imperial draft. Trapped by his opium addiction, he plans to sell Meilin for her dowry. But when Meilin discovers her husband-to-be is another violent, ill-tempered man, she realizes that nothing will change for her unless she takes matters into her own hands.

The very next day, she disguises herself as a boy and enlists in her father’s place.

In the army, Meilin's relentless hard work brings her recognition, friendship—and a growing closeness with Sky, a prince turned training partner. But has she simply exchanged one prison for another? As her kingdom barrels toward destruction, Meilin begins to have visions of a sea dragon spirit that offers her true power and freedom, but with a deadly price.

With the future of the Three Kingdoms hanging in the balance, Meilin will need to decide whom to trust—Sky, who inspires her loyalty and love; the sea dragon spirit, who has his own murky agenda; or an infuriating enemy prince who makes her question everything she once knew—about her kingdom and about her own heart.]]> 432 K.X. Song 0593815726 Has 0 currently-reading 3.80 2024 The Night Ends with Fire (The Night Ends with Fire, #1)
author: K.X. Song
name: Has
average rating: 3.80
book published: 2024
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2024/10/17
shelves: currently-reading
review:

]]> <![CDATA[Mist's Edge (The Broken Lands, #2)]]> 36369652 331 T.A. White Has 4 4.16 2017 Mist's Edge (The Broken Lands, #2)
author: T.A. White
name: Has
average rating: 4.16
book published: 2017
rating: 4
read at: 2024/10/17
date added: 2024/10/17
shelves: alpha-heroes, alphaholes-ahoy, fantasy, fantasy-romance, heroines-who-rock-all-the-ages, humour, post-apocalyptic-romance
review:
Audio reread. I love this trilogy, the cat and mouse romance along with a capable and resourceful heroine and a rich and vibrant world. The second book changed the narrator which I had to get use to.
]]> <![CDATA[Pathfinder's Way (The Broken Lands, #1)]]> 29363942
Nobody ventures beyond their village. Nobody sane that is. Monstrous creatures and deadly mysteries wait out here. Lucky for the people she serves, Shea’s not exactly sane. As a pathfinder, it’s her job to face what others fear and find the safest route through the wilderness. It’s not an easy job, but she’s the best at what she does.

When the people she serves betray her into servitude to the Trateri, a barbarian horde sweeping through the Lowlands intent on conquest, Shea relies on her wits and skill to escape, disguising herself as a boy to hide from the Warlord, a man as dangerous as he is compelling.

After being mistaken as a Trateri scout during her escape, Shea finds herself forced to choose between the life she led and the possibilities of a new one. Her decision might mean the difference between life or death. For danger looms on the horizon and a partnership with the Warlord may be the only thing preventing the destruction of everything she holds dear.]]> 396 T.A. White Has 5 Reread 4.06 2016 Pathfinder's Way (The Broken Lands, #1)
author: T.A. White
name: Has
average rating: 4.06
book published: 2016
rating: 5
read at: 2024/10/15
date added: 2024/10/15
shelves: alpha-heroes, fantasy-romance, heroines-who-rock-all-the-ages, humour, nom-nom-nom-heroes, post-apocalyptic-romance, sci-fi-romance
review:
Reread
]]> <![CDATA[Winter Lost (Mercy Thompson, #14; Mercy Thompson World, #20)]]> 201182779 Mercy Thompson, car mechanic and shapeshifter, must stop a disaster of world-shattering proportions in this exhilarating entry in the #1 New York Times bestselling series.

In the supernatural realms, there are creatures who belong to winter. I am not one of them. But like the coyote I can become at will, I am adaptable.

My name is Mercy Thompson Hauptman, and my mate, Adam, is the werewolf who leads the Columbia Basin Pack, the pack charged with keeping the people who live and work in the Tri-Cities of Washington State safe. It’s a hard job, and it doesn’t leave much room for side quests. Which is why when I needed to travel to Montana to help my brother, I intended to go by myself.

But I’m not alone anymore.

Together, Adam and I find ourselves trapped with strangers in a lodge in the heart of the wilderness, in the teeth of a storm of legendary power, only to discover my brother’s issues are a tiny part of a problem much bigger than we could have imagined. Arcane and ancient magics are at work that could, unless we are very careful, bring about the end of the world. . . .]]> 416 Patricia Briggs 0593439007 Has 5 4.36 2024 Winter Lost (Mercy Thompson, #14; Mercy Thompson World, #20)
author: Patricia Briggs
name: Has
average rating: 4.36
book published: 2024
rating: 5
read at: 2024/06/19
date added: 2024/10/15
shelves: alpha-heroes, fae, heroines-who-rock-all-the-ages, horror, nom-nom-nom-heroes, urban-fantasy, vampires
review:

]]> <![CDATA[Broken by the Horde King (Horde Kings of Dakkar, #4)]]> 213270683
When I was a child, I fell in love with a Dakkari boy. The prince of our clan. Rukkar, we called him. For he was destined to become the greatest horde king of our time.

He was Kiran of Rath Okkili. My friend. My strong, unyielding protector. His mischievous smile and golden eyes made my heart flutter and my soul sing. And just when I began to believe he returned my love…he shattered me so completely and never once looked back to see how I’d survived.

Nine years later, he’s returned.

Only, he’s not a prince anymore.

He’s a horde king. Cold and cruel. With molten eyes like sin and a body made for war.

I promised myself I’d never love him again.

He intends to make a liar out of me.

Because he not only wants my love again…he also demands me as his queen.]]> 466 Zoey Draven Has 4 4.03 2021 Broken by the Horde King (Horde Kings of Dakkar, #4)
author: Zoey Draven
name: Has
average rating: 4.03
book published: 2021
rating: 4
read at: 2024/10/14
date added: 2024/10/13
shelves:
review:
I've already read and really enjoyed this series but to prepare for the Dragon rider spinoff series, I am listening to the audios and they are highly enjoyable although I prefer the female narrator.
]]> WarBride (WarBride, #1) 211842868 Ruthless. Bloodthirsty. Killer.
And now? Her husband.

Ilsevel knows exactly how brutal the fae raiders are. She watched them attack the holy shrine of her god, slaughter the priests, and drag her sister away screaming into darkness.

So when she’s forced up onto the auction block to be sold off as a warbride to the highest bidder—and when the chilling warlord, Taarthalor, pushes his way to the front of the crowd and lays down an outrageous bid—Ilsevel fears her nightmare is only just beginning.

Taar took one look at the fiery little human, and something in him sparked. He cannot explain it. He knows only that he will not see her sold off to one of the soulless monsters trying to outbid each other for a chance to use and discard her soft, womanly flesh.

If that means binding himself to her by marriage, so be it.

Can this dark king convince his bride not to murder him in his sleep before he can decide what to do with her? Or do the gods have other plans in store for the captive princess and her terrifying new husband?

WARBRIDE is book 1 of a dual point-of-view (his and hers) forced marriage fantasy trilogy with a dangerous, brooding hero, kiss-or-kill vibes, and swift-to-ignite steam that will leave you begging for more. If you love watching a cold-hearted fae warlord discover his one weakness just might be the spitfire princess who drives him crazy . . . THIS is the book for you.

Perfect for fans of Elise Kova, Laura Thalassa, and Danielle L. Jensen]]> Sylvia Mercedes Has 0 to-read 3.49 2024 WarBride (WarBride, #1)
author: Sylvia Mercedes
name: Has
average rating: 3.49
book published: 2024
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2024/10/13
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> Beacon (Kindled #8) 213214204
He's been the heart of our community since Impact, keeping all of us alive in a hostile, unstable world. Now he's been hurt after fighting one too many battles. He's retreated into a massive, dangerous forest to live on his own, and he won't come out.

Mack and I had an on-and-off relationship for years, but it's always been no strings attached. After a toxic marriage, I can't commit to another man until I'm confident I can stand on my own. But some things are more important than the emotional baggage I've always carried. Mack is more important.

And it's time to bring him home.

Beacon is a post-apocalyptic romance set in the near future after a global catastrophe, and it includes violence and (secondary) character death. It's the eighth and final book in the Kindled series.]]> 324 Claire Kent Has 0 to-read 3.97 Beacon (Kindled #8)
author: Claire Kent
name: Has
average rating: 3.97
book published:
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2024/10/12
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> <![CDATA[A Bride for the Prizefighter (Victorian Prizefighters, #1)]]> 54276152
A wild journey across country later, Mina finds herself thrown at the feet of the brutish William Nye, prize-fighter and owner of a disreputable inn, The Merry Harlot. Respectable Mina is appalled to find herself obliged to wed this surly stranger!

Forced to draw on reserves of inner strength she never knew she possessed, Mina uncovers perilous secrets and bravely carves herself a new life at the side of this man, as she proves herself a more than worthy partner for the prize-fighter.

]]> 324 Alice Coldbreath Has 3 4.00 2020 A Bride for the Prizefighter (Victorian Prizefighters, #1)
author: Alice Coldbreath
name: Has
average rating: 4.00
book published: 2020
rating: 3
read at: 2024/10/12
date added: 2024/10/12
shelves:
review:

]]> Project Hail Mary 54493401
Except that right now, he doesn’t know that. He can’t even remember his own name, let alone the nature of his assignment or how to complete it.

All he knows is that he’s been asleep for a very, very long time. And he’s just been awakened to find himself millions of miles from home, with nothing but two corpses for company.

His crewmates dead, his memories fuzzily returning, Ryland realizes that an impossible task now confronts him. Hurtling through space on this tiny ship, it’s up to him to puzzle out an impossible scientific mystery—and conquer an extinction-level threat to our species.

And with the clock ticking down and the nearest human being light-years away, he’s got to do it all alone.

Or does he?]]> 476 Andy Weir 0593135202 Has 5 4.49 2021 Project Hail Mary
author: Andy Weir
name: Has
average rating: 4.49
book published: 2021
rating: 5
read at: 2024/10/09
date added: 2024/10/09
shelves: alien-heroes, fanfuckinghilarious, sci-fi, thrillers
review:

]]> <![CDATA[A Reign of Rose (The Sacred Stones, #3)]]> 205064757
They must save the world—but can they also save each other?

Kane Ravenwood, King of Onyx Kingdom, would go to the ends of the continent for Arwen Valondale, but what if she’s beyond even that? Broken in ways he never imagined he could be, Kane must find a way to fulfill the prophecy and kill his father, Fae King Lazarus. And after what he’s endured, he’s willing to save Evendell by whatever means necessary—even if that spells his own death.

Little does Kane know, he’s not the only one fighting for revenge. Arwen is no longer afraid to fight—no sacrifice is too great, no enemy too daunting. Now, nothing will stop her from destroying Lazarus and his allies, because she knows if she fails, both realms will be doomed forever.]]> 496 Kate Golden 0593641949 Has 4 3.90 2024 A Reign of Rose (The Sacred Stones, #3)
author: Kate Golden
name: Has
average rating: 3.90
book published: 2024
rating: 4
read at: 2024/10/06
date added: 2024/10/06
shelves: alpha-heroes, bad-boy-heroes, courtly-intrigue, e-arc, fae, fantasy, fantasy-romance
review:

]]> <![CDATA[Stark Pleasure; the Space Magnate's Mistress (LodeStar, #1)]]> 19053827 361 Cathryn Cade 0988946912 Has 3
I really liked the premise which had a Harlequin Presents feel but set in a SF setting which had a struggling heroine making ends meets and a rich tycoon who goes doolaly over her. Kiri, the heroine is barely making a profit and makes a rash bet to help upgrade her coffee stall which goes horribly wrong. But don't worry because she gets swept off her feet and rescued by dashing and alphahole extraordinaire, Logan Stark. He is a bazillionaire (take that all you billionaires who are stuck with lower inflation rates.) And he soon becomes obsessed with Kiri although he wont admit to himself or to her that he has developed deep feelings for her which leads to a major misunderstanding a conflict that I wasn't keen on.


I was also not keen on Logan who sleeps with another woman later in the book due to the misunderstanding that happened, which made him believe that Kiri also cheated on him. I am not a huge fan of this trope especially with the way the book ended which was pretty much abrupt with Logan and Kiri reunited but not in a full relationship due to their issues. I liked that Kiri stood up to Logan who felt like an utter cad for betraying her for something she was not responsible for. But I was left confused because while there were three upcoming sequels which were dedicated to their siblings which were not open ended. I did learn there is a fourth book which will go back to cover their issues which will come out this Fall. So I will definitely check this out even though it had the dreaded cheating trope.

But overall, this was a cute read and I loved the old skool feel in a vibrant and imaginative setting which had a noirish feel in New Seattle to the Western tone in the planet of Frontierer. The romance was good which ticked all the boxes for me a for a fun and cracky read despite the ending and the cheating. I'll definitely check out the sequels which will feature a miner for a hero and even better a Space Pirate!

Merged review:

Full Review to be posted soon at The Book Pushers:

I really liked the premise which had a Harlequin Presents feel but set in a SF setting which had a struggling heroine making ends meets and a rich tycoon who goes doolaly over her. Kiri, the heroine is barely making a profit and makes a rash bet to help upgrade her coffee stall which goes horribly wrong. But don't worry because she gets swept off her feet and rescued by dashing and alphahole extraordinaire, Logan Stark. He is a bazillionaire (take that all you billionaires who are stuck with lower inflation rates.) And he soon becomes obsessed with Kiri although he wont admit to himself or to her that he has developed deep feelings for her which leads to a major misunderstanding a conflict that I wasn't keen on.


I was also not keen on Logan who sleeps with another woman later in the book due to the misunderstanding that happened, which made him believe that Kiri also cheated on him. I am not a huge fan of this trope especially with the way the book ended which was pretty much abrupt with Logan and Kiri reunited but not in a full relationship due to their issues. I liked that Kiri stood up to Logan who felt like an utter cad for betraying her for something she was not responsible for. But I was left confused because while there were three upcoming sequels which were dedicated to their siblings which were not open ended. I did learn there is a fourth book which will go back to cover their issues which will come out this Fall. So I will definitely check this out even though it had the dreaded cheating trope.

But overall, this was a cute read and I loved the old skool feel in a vibrant and imaginative setting which had a noirish feel in New Seattle to the Western tone in the planet of Frontierer. The romance was good which ticked all the boxes for me a for a fun and cracky read despite the ending and the cheating. I'll definitely check out the sequels which will feature a miner for a hero and even better a Space Pirate!]]> 3.69 2013 Stark Pleasure; the Space Magnate's Mistress (LodeStar, #1)
author: Cathryn Cade
name: Has
average rating: 3.69
book published: 2013
rating: 3
read at: 2014/08/11
date added: 2024/09/28
shelves: alphaholes-ahoy, book-crack, erotic-romance, sci-fi, sci-fi-romance, romance, rereading
review:
Full Review to be posted soon at The Book Pushers:

I really liked the premise which had a Harlequin Presents feel but set in a SF setting which had a struggling heroine making ends meets and a rich tycoon who goes doolaly over her. Kiri, the heroine is barely making a profit and makes a rash bet to help upgrade her coffee stall which goes horribly wrong. But don't worry because she gets swept off her feet and rescued by dashing and alphahole extraordinaire, Logan Stark. He is a bazillionaire (take that all you billionaires who are stuck with lower inflation rates.) And he soon becomes obsessed with Kiri although he wont admit to himself or to her that he has developed deep feelings for her which leads to a major misunderstanding a conflict that I wasn't keen on.


I was also not keen on Logan who sleeps with another woman later in the book due to the misunderstanding that happened, which made him believe that Kiri also cheated on him. I am not a huge fan of this trope especially with the way the book ended which was pretty much abrupt with Logan and Kiri reunited but not in a full relationship due to their issues. I liked that Kiri stood up to Logan who felt like an utter cad for betraying her for something she was not responsible for. But I was left confused because while there were three upcoming sequels which were dedicated to their siblings which were not open ended. I did learn there is a fourth book which will go back to cover their issues which will come out this Fall. So I will definitely check this out even though it had the dreaded cheating trope.

But overall, this was a cute read and I loved the old skool feel in a vibrant and imaginative setting which had a noirish feel in New Seattle to the Western tone in the planet of Frontierer. The romance was good which ticked all the boxes for me a for a fun and cracky read despite the ending and the cheating. I'll definitely check out the sequels which will feature a miner for a hero and even better a Space Pirate!

Merged review:

Full Review to be posted soon at The Book Pushers:

I really liked the premise which had a Harlequin Presents feel but set in a SF setting which had a struggling heroine making ends meets and a rich tycoon who goes doolaly over her. Kiri, the heroine is barely making a profit and makes a rash bet to help upgrade her coffee stall which goes horribly wrong. But don't worry because she gets swept off her feet and rescued by dashing and alphahole extraordinaire, Logan Stark. He is a bazillionaire (take that all you billionaires who are stuck with lower inflation rates.) And he soon becomes obsessed with Kiri although he wont admit to himself or to her that he has developed deep feelings for her which leads to a major misunderstanding a conflict that I wasn't keen on.


I was also not keen on Logan who sleeps with another woman later in the book due to the misunderstanding that happened, which made him believe that Kiri also cheated on him. I am not a huge fan of this trope especially with the way the book ended which was pretty much abrupt with Logan and Kiri reunited but not in a full relationship due to their issues. I liked that Kiri stood up to Logan who felt like an utter cad for betraying her for something she was not responsible for. But I was left confused because while there were three upcoming sequels which were dedicated to their siblings which were not open ended. I did learn there is a fourth book which will go back to cover their issues which will come out this Fall. So I will definitely check this out even though it had the dreaded cheating trope.

But overall, this was a cute read and I loved the old skool feel in a vibrant and imaginative setting which had a noirish feel in New Seattle to the Western tone in the planet of Frontierer. The romance was good which ticked all the boxes for me a for a fun and cracky read despite the ending and the cheating. I'll definitely check out the sequels which will feature a miner for a hero and even better a Space Pirate!
]]> <![CDATA[Wilder's Mate (Bloodhounds, #1)]]> 8645474
Rescuing a weapons inventor from undead kidnappers is just another assignment, though one with an added complication—keeping his hands off the man’s pretty young apprentice, who insists on tagging along.

At odds with polite society, Satira’s only constant has been the aging weapons inventor who treats her like a daughter. She isn’t going to trust Wilder with Nathaniel’s life, not when the Guild might decide the old man isn’t worth saving. Besides, if there’s one thing she’s learned, it’s that brains are more important than brawn.

As the search stretches far longer than Wilder planned, he finds himself fighting against time. If Satira is still at his side when the new moon comes, nothing will stop him from claiming her. Worse, she seems all too willing. If their passion unlocks the beast inside, no one will be safe. Not even the man they’re fighting to save.

Warning: This book contains a crude, gun-slinging, vampire-hunting hero who howls at the full moon and a smart, stubborn heroine who invents mad-scientist weapons. Also included: wild frontier adventures, brothels, danger, betrayal and a good dose of wicked loving in an alternate Wild West.

Word Count: 36,653 = approximately 146 pages.]]> 146 Moira Rogers 1609283805 Has 4
Wilder's Mate is a great start for a new series, it has everything I love, great alpha male heroes and capable and smart heroines, steampunk elements and its set in the Wild Wild West! I adored Wilder and loved how intense and he so had the Grrrr factor although he never entered into Alphahole territory. The world-building was well drawn out and I loved the different factions such as the Bloodhounds and Vampires and the guilds. I wished this book was longer because I wanted more! Definitely looking forward to the next book.

Also important health warning, read this book in an igloo because the sexual tension is that hawt!

Merged review:

Full Review to be linked soon:

Wilder's Mate is a great start for a new series, it has everything I love, great alpha male heroes and capable and smart heroines, steampunk elements and its set in the Wild Wild West! I adored Wilder and loved how intense and he so had the Grrrr factor although he never entered into Alphahole territory. The world-building was well drawn out and I loved the different factions such as the Bloodhounds and Vampires and the guilds. I wished this book was longer because I wanted more! Definitely looking forward to the next book.

Also important health warning, read this book in an igloo because the sexual tension is that hawt!]]> 3.51 2011 Wilder's Mate (Bloodhounds, #1)
author: Moira Rogers
name: Has
average rating: 3.51
book published: 2011
rating: 4
read at:
date added: 2024/09/28
shelves:
review:
Full Review to be linked soon:

Wilder's Mate is a great start for a new series, it has everything I love, great alpha male heroes and capable and smart heroines, steampunk elements and its set in the Wild Wild West! I adored Wilder and loved how intense and he so had the Grrrr factor although he never entered into Alphahole territory. The world-building was well drawn out and I loved the different factions such as the Bloodhounds and Vampires and the guilds. I wished this book was longer because I wanted more! Definitely looking forward to the next book.

Also important health warning, read this book in an igloo because the sexual tension is that hawt!

Merged review:

Full Review to be linked soon:

Wilder's Mate is a great start for a new series, it has everything I love, great alpha male heroes and capable and smart heroines, steampunk elements and its set in the Wild Wild West! I adored Wilder and loved how intense and he so had the Grrrr factor although he never entered into Alphahole territory. The world-building was well drawn out and I loved the different factions such as the Bloodhounds and Vampires and the guilds. I wished this book was longer because I wanted more! Definitely looking forward to the next book.

Also important health warning, read this book in an igloo because the sexual tension is that hawt!
]]> <![CDATA[Doctor D'Arco, Sorcerer of London]]> 216296627 A dark sorcerer. His widowed apprentice.
A Victorian Gothic Romance for all time.

In the midnight fog of Victorian London, the young widow Elizabeth Buckingham was destitute and alone, sustained only by her vow of revenge against whoever—or whatever—caused her Egyptologist husband’s uncanny demise.

Everything changes when a mysterious encounter at a fortuneteller shop leads Elizabeth to join the Esoteric Order of Magisophists, a secret society and college of magic. But with her new life comes new peril, and even the occultists of the Order dread the infamous Doctor D’Arco: a grim, brooding, demon-summoning professor of sorcery, his imposing presence intensified by his black cloak, steel mask, and the unsettling sensation of darkness that emanates from him like a deep shadow.

Now the sorcerer Doctor D’Arco seeks an apprentice to join him in banishing a ghastly rival—and Elizabeth proves to have precisely the talent he requires.

Inspired in part by vintage Gothic, Romantic, and Victorian literature and written in compelling, sensual prose, Doctor D’Arco, Sorcerer of London is a tale of mystery, adventure, supernatural thrills, eerie suspense� and most of all, of a young widow’s secret, longing love for the dark sorcery professor to whom she is apprenticed, her fear of him slowly smoldering into a dangerous desire.]]> 900 Kathryn Colvin Has 0 to-read 3.86 Doctor D'Arco, Sorcerer of London
author: Kathryn Colvin
name: Has
average rating: 3.86
book published:
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2024/09/23
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> <![CDATA[Garrett (McKettricks of Texas, #2; McKettricks, #12)]]> 8302946
But Blue River has other attractions, like his former high school nemesis, Julie Remington. Now a striking woman, Julie comes complete with a four-year-old cowboy, a three-legged beagle and deep ties to the community. Good thing they have nothing in common…except their undeniable attraction and a future brighter than the Texas sun.]]> 384 Linda Lael Miller 1426856083 Has 0 to-read 4.10 2010 Garrett (McKettricks of Texas, #2; McKettricks, #12)
author: Linda Lael Miller
name: Has
average rating: 4.10
book published: 2010
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2024/09/21
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> <![CDATA[Beautiful Beast (Perfectly Imperfect: Mafia Legacy, #1)]]> 209685756 But when the most beautiful woman is brought to face my fury,
My dead heart suddenly begins to beat again.

There are no fairy tales in this life.
Beauty will never fall for the beast.
But this monster doesn't intend to let her go.

Everybody has a price.
It's just a question of currency.
My sweet little hacker can't be swayed by money,
But she will do whatever it takes to save her family.]]> 372 Neva Altaj 1961423405 Has 5 4.30 2024 Beautiful Beast (Perfectly Imperfect: Mafia Legacy, #1)
author: Neva Altaj
name: Has
average rating: 4.30
book published: 2024
rating: 5
read at: 2024/09/20
date added: 2024/09/20
shelves: alpha-heroes, assassins, bad-boy-heroes, book-crack, dark-romance, mafia-romance
review:

]]> <![CDATA[The Complete Aliens Omnibus: Volume One]]> 25387802
Earth Hive:  

Wilks was a space marine with a near-fatal flaw:  he had a heart.  Billie was a child, the only survivor of a far-flung colony outpost.  Thrown together in the last hellish night of an alien invasion, Billie and Wilks helped each other get out alive.  Thirteen years later Wilks is in prison, and Billie lives in a mental institution, the nightmare memories of the massacre at Rim seared into her mind.  Now the government has tapped Wilks to lead an expedition to the aliens' home planet to bring back a live alien.  But the competition on Earth to develop the aliens as a new weapons system is brutal.  When Wilks's team departs on their mission, a trained assassin trails them.  And what follows is no less than guerrilla warfare on the aliens' planet--and alien conquest on Earth!

Nightmare Asylum:

Wilks, Billie, and Bueller were the last survivors of a devastating assault on the aliens' home planet.  But once their retum to the solar system made them refugees once more, fleeing Earth and its alien infestation in a desperate attempt to stay alive.  Now, in an otherwise unmanned military transport, they hurtle through space.  Destination: unknown.

Little do they know that the cargo they carry with them is a legacy of death that they will ultimately have to face. Nor do they know that they head toward a remote colony and military outpost.  This pocket of humanity at the very edges of space is at the mercy of a general names Spears with an agenda all his own.  Now Billie, Wilks, and Bueller face a new nightmare, and it is nothing they could ever have imagined: a gift of madness from an alien world, unbalanced mind, and the experiences of a mysterious pilot named Lieutenant Ellen Ripley.

The Female War:

Lieutenant Ellen Ripley awoke from her long journey in space with a hole in her memory and an overwhelming drive to survive.  When she meets Wilks and Billie, two battered veterans in the war against the alienss she realizes she's found two comrades in arms--and she's ready to take up the fight.  Only then does she discover the devastating secret that lurks behind her long sleep.  When she, Wilks, and Billie prepare to meet the aliens head-on to turn a powerful alien queen against her spawn in a battle intended to save Earth, that secret becomes her greatest weapon--and her greatest liability.  As the fate of Earth hangs in the balance, Ripley and Billie must come to terms with what it means to be an alien . . . and what it means to be human.]]> 832 Steve Perry 1783299010 Has 2 sci-fi, horror 4.00 2015 The Complete Aliens Omnibus: Volume One
author: Steve Perry
name: Has
average rating: 4.00
book published: 2015
rating: 2
read at: 2024/09/06
date added: 2024/09/19
shelves: sci-fi, horror
review:

]]> Dante (Chicago Ruthless, #1) 67388177
But that’s not why I hate him.

I hate him because he has taken the only thing I have left in this miserable world � my freedom. He has chained me to him because of a debt that I don’t owe. I just have the misfortune to share the bloodline of the man who does.

And now I’m trapped in his gilded cage and the only thing I have left to do is run. And I try. I really do. But he is everywhere.

Suffocating. All consuming. Intoxicating.

He is a paradox. A man with a heart as cold as ice, whose passion rages like an inferno.

Why does he see into my soul in a way that nobody else ever has? Why does the slightest brush of his skin make my pulse race?

My mom always warned me never to play with matches. But if Dante Moretti is fire, then I want to burn.

Dante is the first book in the Chicago Ruthless series, featuring the Moretti siblings. Each book is a standalone with a HEA. This is a spicy Dark Mafia, enemies to lovers, forced proximity romance, which features scenes of a violent nature as well as those of an explicit sexual nature.]]> 350 Sadie Kincaid Has 4 3.93 Dante (Chicago Ruthless, #1)
author: Sadie Kincaid
name: Has
average rating: 3.93
book published:
rating: 4
read at: 2024/08/15
date added: 2024/08/16
shelves: alphaholes-ahoy, bearded-heroes, dark-romance, mafia-romance, romance, romantic-suspense
review:

]]> <![CDATA[The Bollywood Bride (Bollywood, #2)]]> 18938929
Ria and Vikram spent childhood summers together, a world away from Ria's exclusive boarding school in Mumbai. Their friendship grew seamlessly into love--until Ria made a shattering decision. As far as Vikram is concerned, Ria sold her soul for stardom and it's taken him years to rebuild his life. But beneath his pent-up anger, their bond remains unchanged. And now, among those who know her best, Ria may find the courage to face the secrets she's been guarding for everyone else's benefit--and a chance to stop acting and start living.

Rich with details of modern Indian-American life, here is a warm, sexy, and witty story of love, family, and the difficult choices that arise in the name of both.]]> 304 Sonali Dev 1617730157 Has 4
The Bollywood Bride is much darker and serious in tone compared to The Bollywood Affair. I really liked the 2nd chance lovers tropes used in the plot and how that played out which created a wonderful nuanced romance. There were a few issues and that was how mental illness was tackled but overall this cemented Sonali Dev as an autobuy author for me!]]> 3.54 The Bollywood Bride (Bollywood, #2)
author: Sonali Dev
name: Has
average rating: 3.54
book published:
rating: 4
read at: 2015/09/20
date added: 2024/08/07
shelves: contemporary-romance, romance, sweet-heroes, mental-illness
review:
Full review to be posted at The Bookpushers.

The Bollywood Bride is much darker and serious in tone compared to The Bollywood Affair. I really liked the 2nd chance lovers tropes used in the plot and how that played out which created a wonderful nuanced romance. There were a few issues and that was how mental illness was tackled but overall this cemented Sonali Dev as an autobuy author for me!
]]> Steel's Edge (The Edge, #4) 12119496 The Edge lies between worlds, on the border between the Broken, where people shop at Wal-Mart and magic is a fairy tale—and the Weird, where blueblood aristocrats rule, changelings roam, and the strength of your magic can change your destiny�

Charlotte de Ney is as noble as they come, a blueblood straight out of the Weird. But even though she possesses rare magical healing abilities, her life has brought her nothing but pain. After her marriage crumbles, she flees to the Edge to build a new home for herself. Until Richard Mar is brought to her for treatment, and Charlotte’s life is turned upside down once again.

Richard is a swordsman without peer, future head of his large and rambunctious Edger clan—and he’s on a clandestine quest to wipe out slavers trafficking humans in the Weird. So when his presence leads his very dangerous enemies to Charlotte, she vows to help Richard destroy them. The slavers� operation, however, goes deeper than Richard knows, and even working together, Charlotte and Richard may not survive...]]> 388 Ilona Andrews 1937007820 Has 0 to-read 4.16 2012 Steel's Edge (The Edge, #4)
author: Ilona Andrews
name: Has
average rating: 4.16
book published: 2012
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2024/08/07
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> <![CDATA[World After (Penryn & the End of Days, #2)]]> 17849112 Angelfall, the survivors of the angel apocalypse begin to scrape back together what's left of the modern world. When a group of people capture Penryn's sister Paige, thinking she's a monster, the situation ends in a massacre. Paige disappears. Humans are terrified. Mom is heartbroken.

Penryn drives through the streets of San Francisco looking for Paige. Why are the streets so empty? Where is everybody? Her search leads her into the heart of the angels' secret plans, where she catches a glimpse of their motivations, and learns the horrifying extent to which the angels are willing to go.

Meanwhile, Raffe hunts for his wings. Without them, he can't rejoin the angels, can't take his rightful place as one of their leaders. When faced with recapturing his wings or helping Penryn survive, which will he choose?

]]> 320 Susan Ee 1477867287 Has 0 to-read 4.09 2013 World After (Penryn & the End of Days, #2)
author: Susan Ee
name: Has
average rating: 4.09
book published: 2013
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2024/08/07
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> <![CDATA[World After (Penryn & the End of Days, #2)]]> 12983100 Angelfall, the survivors of the angel apocalypse begin to scrape back together what's left of the modern world.

When a group of people capture Penryn's sister Paige, thinking she's a monster, the situation ends in a massacre. Paige disappears. Humans are terrified. Mom is heartbroken.

Penryn drives through the streets of San Francisco looking for Paige. Why are the streets so empty? Where is everybody? Her search leads her into the heart of the angels' secret plans where she catches a glimpse of their motivations, and learns the horrifying extent to which the angels are willing to go.

Meanwhile, Raffe hunts for his wings. Without them, he can't rejoin the angels, can't take his rightful place as one of their leaders. When faced with recapturing his wings or helping Penryn survive, which will he choose?]]> 438 Susan Ee Has 0 to-read 4.24 2013 World After (Penryn & the End of Days, #2)
author: Susan Ee
name: Has
average rating: 4.24
book published: 2013
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2024/08/07
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> <![CDATA[Every Little Thing (Hart's Boardwalk #2)]]> 31356463
Vaughn admires Bailey’s free spirit, independence, and loyalty. As his passion for her has grown, his antagonism toward her has only worsened. Every little thing Bailey does seduces him. But when Vaughn’s painful emotional past makes him walk away in fear he will hurt her, it opens an old wound in Bailey, and she uncharacteristically retreats.

Once Vaughn begins to realize he’s made the biggest mistake of his life, he has no choice but to fight like he’s never fought before to convince Bailey that the love they’ve found together only comes around once in a lifetime�.]]> 352 Samantha Young Has 0 to-read 4.04 2017 Every Little Thing (Hart's Boardwalk #2)
author: Samantha Young
name: Has
average rating: 4.04
book published: 2017
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2024/08/06
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> The X-Files: Perihelion 201088600
They reluctantly agree, cautious about what it might mean for them and their unborn child but determined to find justice for the killers� victims. But their return to the X-Files sparks the interest of a shadowy cabal, the heirs to the now-dead Syndicate, and Mulder and Scully soon discover that their investigation is connected to a worldwide threat on an unprecedented scale . . . one with their own future at its heart.]]> 352 Claudia Gray 136808429X Has 0 to-read 4.19 2024 The X-Files: Perihelion
author: Claudia Gray
name: Has
average rating: 4.19
book published: 2024
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2024/07/31
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> <![CDATA[To Wed a Wild Lord (Hellions of Halstead Hall #4)]]> 11250008 Drowning in guilt over his best friend's death seven years ago, Lord Gabriel Sharpe, the Angel of Death, knows his only hope at redemption is a race against a shocking opponent.

Shrouded in darkness for the past seven years, the infamous racer Lord Gabriel Sharpe is known to accept every challenge to race thrown at him. When his next challenge comes in the form of his late best friend's sister, Virginia Waverly, Gabe is shocked. Yet she presents just the opportunity Gabe needs--marriage to fulfill his grandmother's ultimatum and ensure his inheritance. What he didn't count on was needing her love.]]> 384 Sabrina Jeffries Has 4 4.05 2011 To Wed a Wild Lord (Hellions of Halstead Hall #4)
author: Sabrina Jeffries
name: Has
average rating: 4.05
book published: 2011
rating: 4
read at: 2011/12/26
date added: 2024/07/31
shelves:
review:

]]> <![CDATA[Midnight Promises (Men of Midnight, #2)]]> 22703043
When a gorgeous, bleeding woman on the run falls into the arms of Sean "Metal" O'Brien, the former SEAL medic knows just what he can do. Heal her. Tend to her. Keep her safe.

What he can't seem to do is keep his guard up. Something about the haunted, hunted beauty knocks down all his defenses.

Felicity Ward is no stranger to secrets. Raised in the Witness Protection Program, her whole childhood was a lie. But she couldn't have known that her family's secrets—secrets she didn't even know she was keeping—could spark a nuclear war.

And nothing could have prepared her for the tough, sexy warrior who first saves her life and then vows to protect it, no matter what.]]> 282 Lisa Marie Rice 1426899343 Has 3
This was a typical Lisa Marie Rice romance. Big brawny hero who is heads over heels with his heroine. I loved that the heroine, Felicity is a nerd genius and is a fan of shows like The Arrow and Doctor Who. I wished the ending and second half was fleshed out more, it was very rushed and the romance had an insta love ending that left me wanting more, and not much of a buildup. But it was enjoyable and the romance was sweet and cute. I just wished it was longer and not so much of a glossed over romance and ending.

Merged review:

Full Review to be posted at The Book Pushers.

This was a typical Lisa Marie Rice romance. Big brawny hero who is heads over heels with his heroine. I loved that the heroine, Felicity is a nerd genius and is a fan of shows like The Arrow and Doctor Who. I wished the ending and second half was fleshed out more, it was very rushed and the romance had an insta love ending that left me wanting more, and not much of a buildup. But it was enjoyable and the romance was sweet and cute. I just wished it was longer and not so much of a glossed over romance and ending.]]> 3.93 2015 Midnight Promises (Men of Midnight, #2)
author: Lisa Marie Rice
name: Has
average rating: 3.93
book published: 2015
rating: 3
read at: 2015/03/02
date added: 2024/07/26
shelves: asssassins, romantic-suspense, alpha-heroes, sweet-heroes
review:
Full Review to be posted at The Book Pushers.

This was a typical Lisa Marie Rice romance. Big brawny hero who is heads over heels with his heroine. I loved that the heroine, Felicity is a nerd genius and is a fan of shows like The Arrow and Doctor Who. I wished the ending and second half was fleshed out more, it was very rushed and the romance had an insta love ending that left me wanting more, and not much of a buildup. But it was enjoyable and the romance was sweet and cute. I just wished it was longer and not so much of a glossed over romance and ending.

Merged review:

Full Review to be posted at The Book Pushers.

This was a typical Lisa Marie Rice romance. Big brawny hero who is heads over heels with his heroine. I loved that the heroine, Felicity is a nerd genius and is a fan of shows like The Arrow and Doctor Who. I wished the ending and second half was fleshed out more, it was very rushed and the romance had an insta love ending that left me wanting more, and not much of a buildup. But it was enjoyable and the romance was sweet and cute. I just wished it was longer and not so much of a glossed over romance and ending.
]]> <![CDATA[Primal Mirror (Psy-Changeling Trinity, #8; Psy-Changeling, #23)]]> 200555243 New York Times bestselling author Nalini Singh takes us into a family dark with shadowy secrets, as the world of the Psy hangs on the edge of a final catastrophic collapse�

Daughter of two ruthless high-gradient telepaths, Auden Scott is not the child her Psy parents wanted or expected, even before her brain injury. Her thoughts are scattered, her memories fuzzy—or just terrifyingly blank. The only thing she knows for certain is that she must protect her unborn baby…a baby she has no recollection of conceiving and who draws an abnormal intensity of notice from her dead mother’s closest associates.

Leopard alpha Remi Denier is a man driven by the primal instinct to protect. Protect his pack, protect his allies� and protect the mysterious woman who has become a most unlikely neighbor. With eerie eyes that see too much and a scent that alters in ways disturbing and impossible, Auden Scott is the enemy…but nothing about this strange Psy is what it seems, Remi’s feline heart as fascinated by her as the human half of his soul.

Then Auden asks Remi to help her shatter the wall of secrets that is the Scott bloodline. What they unearth will reveal a nightmare beyond imagination. This time, the battle is to the death…]]> 400 Nalini Singh 0593440730 Has 4 4.08 2024 Primal Mirror (Psy-Changeling Trinity, #8; Psy-Changeling, #23)
author: Nalini Singh
name: Has
average rating: 4.08
book published: 2024
rating: 4
read at: 2024/07/24
date added: 2024/07/24
shelves: alpha-heroes, e-arc, nom-nom-nom-heroes, paranormal-romance, sci-fi-romance
review:
Enjoyable entry to the series with a sweet and heartfelt romance. Full review at The Book Pushers.
]]> <![CDATA[His Tesoro (Empire of Royals, #1)]]> 212470837 I’ve always dreamed of romance, but this wedding is strictly business.

SOFIYA

I’ve spent years hidden away to protect my father from the shame of having a defective daughter. The head of the Bratva can’t be associated with weakness—and to him, that’s all I am.

That is, until a marriage alliance gives him the opportunity to finally be rid of me.

As I head down the aisle towards my mysterious husband, I hope I’m moving towards love and freedom. But Matteo makes it clear he wants nothing to do with me.

I wish I could return his coldness, but the dangerous Don sets my body ablaze whenever he’s near.

MATTEO

My life has been defined by betrayal.

A family traitor murdered my parents, and I’ve carried their blood on my hands all these years. I learned long ago not to open my heart.

As head of the Five Families, I’ve always controlled my city, but with enemies rising up on all sides, a marriage alliance is my only way forward. Except, my bride is not what I expected—and now she’s consuming my every thought.

But when my trust is shattered again, I’ll go to any means necessary to protect the Family.

His Tesoro is a spicy, dual first-person POV Mafia Romance with an age gap, arranged marriage, disabled heroine, and jealous/possessive hero. This book is a standalone that ends in a HEA. See Author’s Note at the beginning of the book for full content warnings.]]> 396 Emilia Rossi Has 4 3.84 2024 His Tesoro (Empire of Royals, #1)
author: Emilia Rossi
name: Has
average rating: 3.84
book published: 2024
rating: 4
read at: 2024/07/16
date added: 2024/07/16
shelves: alpha-heroes, alphaholes-ahoy, bad-boy-heroes, bearded-heroes, mafia-romance, romance, romantic-suspense
review:
His Tesoro is an arranged marriage trope with a disabled heroine who has EDS. I am a huge sucker for this trope and I was pleasantly surprised by the disability rep in the story. There was a lot of thought and depth to it even though I felt the heroine, Sofiya was a bit too sweet that made her character a bit flat in the beginning. But as the story progressed, I really like how she came to her own and actually proved and saved herself. Overall this was an enjoyable and sweet as well as sexy read and I am looking forward to the next book!
]]> <![CDATA[The Unbound Queen (The Four Arts #3)]]> 51002417
She’s been offered a crown but taking it could cost her everything�

Lady Sophie Mackenzie might be fifth in line to the Anglion throne but she never wanted to rule. But she's bound to a demon, gifted with forbidden magic, and under threat from those who would use her unusual power for themselves. And now her hopes of finding peace in exile have been shattered by visions of a terrible darkness gnawing at the heart of her homeland.

Then the emperor of Illvya makes her an offer she can't refuse—return home and overthrow the queen of Anglion, or lose everything she holds dear.

To face down the darkness and save her husband and everyone she loves, she may have to betray the country—and the queen—she once served and play the games of power she never wanted any part of.

But can she play them to win�
]]> 401 M.J. Scott Has 0 to-read 4.09 2020 The Unbound Queen (The Four Arts #3)
author: M.J. Scott
name: Has
average rating: 4.09
book published: 2020
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2024/07/01
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> <![CDATA[Lioness Rampant (Song of the Lioness, #4)]]> 13837
Having achieved her dream of becoming the first female knight errant, Alanna of Trebond is not sure what to do next. She has triumphed in countless bloody battles, and her adventures are already legendary. Perhaps being a knight errant is not all that Alanna needs…but Alanna must push her uncertainty aside when she is challenged with the impossible. She must recover the Dominion Jewel, a legendary gem with enormous power for good—but only in the right hands. And she must work fast. Tortall is in terrible danger from all directions, with enemies great and small plotting to destroy everyone and everything Alanna loves.]]> 384 Tamora Pierce 0689878575 Has 5 4.28 1988 Lioness Rampant (Song of the Lioness, #4)
author: Tamora Pierce
name: Has
average rating: 4.28
book published: 1988
rating: 5
read at: 2024/05/18
date added: 2024/05/18
shelves: audio, book-crack, fantastic-ya, fantasy, heroines-who-rock-all-the-ages, ya
review:

]]> <![CDATA[In the Hand of the Goddess (Song of the Lioness, #2)]]> 13835
Here continues the story of Alanna, a young woman bound for glory who is willing to fight against enormous odds for what she believes in.]]> 264 Tamora Pierce 0689878567 Has 5 4.24 1984 In the Hand of the Goddess (Song of the Lioness, #2)
author: Tamora Pierce
name: Has
average rating: 4.24
book published: 1984
rating: 5
read at: 2024/05/16
date added: 2024/05/17
shelves: audio, courtly-intrigue, fantastic-ya, feminist-romance, heroines-who-rock-all-the-ages, re-read-oldies-but-goodies, ya
review:

]]> <![CDATA[The Woman Who Rides Like a Man (Song of the Lioness, #3)]]> 13830 "Let her prove herself worthy as a man."

Newly knighted, Alanna of Trebond seeks adventure in the vast desert of Tortall. Captured by fierce desert dwellers, she is forced to prove herself in a duel to the death -- either she will be killed or she will be inducted into the tribe. Although she triumphs, dire challenges lie ahead. As her mythic fate would have it, Alanna soon becomes the tribe's first female shaman -- despite the desert dwellers' grave fear of the foreign woman warrior. Alanna must fight to change the ancient tribal customs of the desert tribes -- for their sake and for the sake of all Tortall.

Alanna's journey continues...

]]> 284 Tamora Pierce 0689878583 Has 4 4.19 1986 The Woman Who Rides Like a Man (Song of the Lioness, #3)
author: Tamora Pierce
name: Has
average rating: 4.19
book published: 1986
rating: 4
read at: 2024/05/17
date added: 2024/05/17
shelves: book-crack, fantasy, heroines-who-rock-all-the-ages, new-adult, re-read-oldies-but-goodies, ya
review:

]]> Hero (Kindled, #4) 61168456
The small world we've built for ourselves in the past five years is crumbling at the edges. Our food is running out. So soon we'll have to leave our home and travel a dangerous road in search of safety that might not exist anymore. To make it worse, I'm hit with new feelings for Zed and start wanting things from him that I can never have.

I know better than to put my hope in romantic daydreams. This has become a world without heroes, and the happiest ending is just to survive.

Note: Hero is a short, steamy post-apocalyptic romance. This title was originally intended to be Mack and Anna's book, but their story has been postponed until later in the series. Hero features a different couple.]]> 170 Claire Kent Has 3 3.92 2022 Hero (Kindled, #4)
author: Claire Kent
name: Has
average rating: 3.92
book published: 2022
rating: 3
read at: 2024/05/16
date added: 2024/05/16
shelves: dystopian, post-apocalyptic-romance
review:

]]> Dom (Alliance, #3) 193557064
When I was nine, I went to my first funeral. Along with accepting my father's death, I had to accept new and awful truths I wasn't prepared for.

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

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

Until I meet him. The man in the airport.

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

DOM

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

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

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

I'm going to need The Alliance.

And I'll become a member. By any means necessary.]]> 474 S.J. Tilly 1962096009 Has 4 4.28 2023 Dom (Alliance, #3)
author: S.J. Tilly
name: Has
average rating: 4.28
book published: 2023
rating: 4
read at: 2024/05/15
date added: 2024/05/14
shelves: alpha-heroes, alphaholes-ahoy, asssassins, audio, bad-boy-heroes, mafia-romance, romantic-suspense
review:

]]> King (Alliance, #2) 125948154
Okay, so, my bad for assuming the guy I was going on a date with wasn’t married. And my bad for taking him to a friend’s house for dinner, only to find out my friend is also friends with his wife. Because, in fact, he is married. And she happens to be at my friend’s house because her husband was busy working.

Confused? So am I.

Unsurprisingly, my date’s wife is super angry about finding out that her husband is a cheating asshole.

Girl, I get it.

Then, to make matters more convoluted, there is the man sitting next to my date’s wife. A man named King, who is apparently her brother, and who lives up to his name.

And since my date is a two-timing prick, I’m not going to feel bad about drooling over King, especially since I’ll never see him again.

Or at least I don’t plan to.

I plan to take an Uber to the cheater’s apartment to get my car keys.

I plan for it to be quick.

And if I had to list a thousand possible outcomes� witnessing my date’s murder, being kidnapped by his killer, and then being forced to marry the super attractive but clearly deranged crime lord, would not have been on my Bingo card.

But alas, here I am.]]> 394 S.J. Tilly Has 4 4.14 2023 King (Alliance, #2)
author: S.J. Tilly
name: Has
average rating: 4.14
book published: 2023
rating: 4
read at: 2024/05/14
date added: 2024/05/14
shelves: alpha-heroes, alphaholes-ahoy, audio, bad-boy-heroes, contemporary-romance, mafia-romance, romance, romantic-suspense
review:

]]> Nero (Alliance, #1) 85164835
Running away from home at 17 wasn’t easy. Let’s face it though, nothing before, or in the ten years since, has ever been easy for me.
And I’m doing okay. Sorta. I just need to keep scraping by, living under the radar. Staying out of people’s way, off people’s minds.
So when a man walks through my open patio door, stepping boldly into my home, and my life, I should be scared. Frightened. Terrified.
But I must be more broken than I realized, because I’m none of those things.
I’m intrigued.
And I’m wondering if the way to take control of my life is by giving in to him.

Nero

The first time I took a man’s life, I knew there’d be no going back. No normal existence in the cards for me.
So instead of walking away, I climbed a mountain of bodies, and created my own destiny. By forming The Alliance.
And I was fine with that. Content enough to carry on.
Until I stepped through those open doors, and into her life.
I should’ve walked away. Should’ve gone right back out the door I came through. But I didn’t.
And now her life is in danger.
But that’s the thing about being a bad man. I’ll happily paint the streets red to protect what’s mine.
And Payton is mine. Whether she knows it or not.]]> 368 S.J. Tilly Has 4 3.86 2023 Nero (Alliance, #1)
author: S.J. Tilly
name: Has
average rating: 3.86
book published: 2023
rating: 4
read at:
date added: 2024/05/14
shelves:
review:

]]> <![CDATA[An Easy Death (Gunnie Rose, #1)]]> 38136877
She may be young, but Gunnie Rose has acquired a fearsome reputation and the wizards are at a desperate crossroads, even if they won't admit it. They're searching frantically to locate the only man whose blood they believe can save their tsar's life.

A powerful enemy sends enemies who want their mission to fail. The trio are set upon by a powerful force does not want them to succeed in their mission. Lizbeth Rose is a gunnie who has never failed a client, but her oath will test all of her skills and resolve to get them all out alive.]]> 336 Charlaine Harris Has 4 3.75 2018 An Easy Death (Gunnie Rose, #1)
author: Charlaine Harris
name: Has
average rating: 3.75
book published: 2018
rating: 4
read at: 2024/05/13
date added: 2024/05/13
shelves: dystopian, urban-fantasy, westerns, audio
review:

]]> <![CDATA[Alanna: The First Adventure (Song of the Lioness, #1)]]> 13831 From now on I'm Alan of Trebond, the younger twin. I'll be a knight.

And so young Alanna of Trebond begins the journey to knighthood. Though a girl, Alanna has always craved the adventure and daring allowed only for boys; her twin brother, Thom, yearns to learn the art of magic. So one day they decide to switch places: Thom heads for the convent to learn magic; Alanna, pretending to be a boy, is on her way to the castle of King Roald to begin her training as a page.

But the road to knighthood is not an easy one. As Alanna masters the skills necessary for battle, she must also learn to control her heart and to discern her enemies from her allies.

Filled with swords and sorcery, adventure and intrigue, good and evil, Alanna's first adventure begins - one that will lead to the fulfillment of her dreams and the magical destiny that will make her a legend in her land.

]]> 274 Tamora Pierce 0689878559 Has 5 4.28 1983 Alanna: The First Adventure (Song of the Lioness, #1)
author: Tamora Pierce
name: Has
average rating: 4.28
book published: 1983
rating: 5
read at: 2024/05/11
date added: 2024/05/11
shelves: fantastic-ya, fantasy, heroines-who-rock-all-the-ages, humour, re-read-oldies-but-goodies, ya
review:

]]> <![CDATA[Winter Plague (The Winter Plague, #1)]]> 55918738
The world has gone to shit.
All that's left are a few bands of rogue survivors, more dangers than ever, those violence-loving rotters, and me and my dog, Cleo.
Well, it should just be Cleo and me. And it was, until-- I found them. A group of mercenaries in this plagued, wintery world. Once high-ranking soldiers, something has turned them dark in this new life we all lead. And my darkness calls to theirs... Leo saves my life, Castle keeps me safe, and I'm torn between the two.
Only, it's more than returned feelings that have them watching over me, and I quickly learn that my place in this group is not optional. I can't leave any time I want.

I've been taken captive. And I see no way out. Not without breaking my own heart in the process.]]> 192 Quinn Blackbird Has 3 4.08 Winter Plague (The Winter Plague, #1)
author: Quinn Blackbird
name: Has
average rating: 4.08
book published:
rating: 3
read at: 2024/05/11
date added: 2024/05/11
shelves: post-apocalyptic-romance, zombies
review:

]]> <![CDATA[Kingdom of Blood and Salt (Blood and Salt #1)]]> 123170270
After spending years training to defend my people from our enemies, I never expected that my enemy would be the one keeping me alive.

Athos is the last human city. A treaty with the Fae keeps the fae, the vampires, and the wolf shifters at bay, while we fight against the dragons at our border. Being a human in this world is dangerous and we all make sacrifices to survive.

When the delegation sent by the Fae King arrives to claim the human tributes required by our treaty, I never expected to forge a connection with their leader.

Ryvin is as dangerous as he is handsome. I know he’s my enemy, and I know I’m supposed to hate him, but with each passing day, he’s more difficult to resist.

But things are changing in Athos. Humans no longer want to bend to the Fae King.

Alliances blur and centuries of lies begin to unravel.

And I’m faced with a choice.

No matter how much I hate him, Ryvin might be the key to preventing war.

But it may mean sacrificing everything�.

Kingdom of Blood and Salt is the first book in a fantasy romance trilogy with fae, vampires, and shifters. This enemies to lovers series contains violence, mature language, and spice. This is a NA/adult fantasy romance and steam level will increase as the series progresses. Mind the cliff.]]> 330 Alexis Calder Has 0 to-read 3.96 2023 Kingdom of Blood and Salt (Blood and Salt #1)
author: Alexis Calder
name: Has
average rating: 3.96
book published: 2023
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2024/05/10
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> <![CDATA[The Dark King (Deviant Kings, #1)]]> 60316870
Whether light or shadow, the fae are a far cry from fairy tales, and now they’ve made Bryn a pawn in their dark games for power. And Caiden is the most dangerous of all—an intoxicating cocktail of sin and raw, insatiable hunger. She should run. But every night of passion pulls Bryn deeper into his strange and sinister world, until she’s no longer certain she wants to leave…even if she could.

Each book in the Deviant Kings series is STANDALONE:
* The Dark King
* The Rebel King]]> 339 Gina L. Maxwell 1649373279 Has 3 3.67 2022 The Dark King (Deviant Kings, #1)
author: Gina L. Maxwell
name: Has
average rating: 3.67
book published: 2022
rating: 3
read at: 2024/04/30
date added: 2024/05/01
shelves:
review:

]]> <![CDATA[Archangel's Lineage (Guild Hunter, #16)]]> 194803871 New York Times bestselling author Nalini Singh’s dangerous and beautiful world of archangels, vampires, and mortals has never faced a threat this cataclysmic�

Raphael and Elena are experiencing their first ever year of true peace. No war. No horrors of archangelic power. No nightmares given flesh. Until…the earth beneath the Refuge begins to tremble, endangering not only angelkind’s precious and fragile young, but the very place that has held their most innocent safe for eons.

Amid the chaos, Elena’s father suffers a violent heart attack that threatens to extinguish their last chance to heal the bonds between them and make sense of the ruins of their agonizing shared history.

Even as Elena battles grief, Raphael is torn from her side by the sudden disappearance of an archangel. But worse yet is to come. An Ancestor, an angel unlike any other, stirs from his Sleep to warn the Cadre of a darkness so terrible that it causes empires to fall and civilizations to vanish.

This time, even the Cadre itself may not be able to stop a ticking clock that is counting down at frightening speed…]]> 378 Nalini Singh 0593550013 Has 5 4.23 2024 Archangel's Lineage (Guild Hunter, #16)
author: Nalini Singh
name: Has
average rating: 4.23
book published: 2024
rating: 5
read at: 2024/04/23
date added: 2024/04/29
shelves: alpha-heroes, alphaholes-ahoy, angels, paranormal-romance, powerful-and-influential-heroines, sci-fi-romance
review:

]]> Dustwalker 122770229 A robot searching for purpose. A woman who brings him to life. Can they learn to love in a broken world?

With his core programming lost to time, Ronin has wandered the Dust for nearly two centuries. Out in that unforgiving wasteland, his armored undercasing, advanced optics, and amped-up processors give him an advantage over other scavengers. He’s resigned himself to this unending trek until one night—until one human—makes him question everything.

Lara Brooks and her sister have spent their lives struggling to survive under the tyrannical rule of Cheyenne’s robotic master, Warlord. But when her sister goes missing, Lara has no one to turn to, no one willing to help her. She’s utterly alone. Her only hope comes from a bot she catches spying on her.

Ronin agrees to protect Lara and find her sister. All she must do in return is dance for him.

The transaction should be simple. Lara’s danced for bots before. Yet the more time they spend together, the harder it becomes for her to see him as nothing but a collection of circuits and machinery.

And Ronin soon finds it difficult to deny what shouldn’t be possible�

She makes him feel.

But if Ronin defies Cheyenne’s rules to pursue his growing desires, he risks exposing Lara to a danger far greater than any found in the unforgiving wasteland—Warlord’s wrath.

---------------------------------------------------

Warning: This book contains foul language, explicit sexual content, and violence and is intended for mature readers only.]]> 476 Tiffany Roberts Has 4 4.05 2017 Dustwalker
author: Tiffany Roberts
name: Has
average rating: 4.05
book published: 2017
rating: 4
read at: 2024/04/26
date added: 2024/04/26
shelves: alpha-heroes, asssassins, post-apocalyptic-romance, sci-fi-romance
review:

]]> Return to Monte Carlo 198542046
MONTE CARLO, 1982

The odds of a man like Marco de Noli falling for a girl like me were a million to one.

He’s old money, classic European jet set, a master of the universe.

When we met, I was a shy girl from Oklahoma, pretty enough, but nowhere near his league.

One year later, after he stands me up on our first anniversary, I have to face facts. Our marriage was a mistake. My in-laws think I’m a gold digger, Marco lives at the office, and nights of passion aren’t enough. There’s nothing keeping me in Monte Carlo.

But when I run, I don’t realize that I’m taking the de Noli heir with me�

Or that our love wasn’t what I thought it was at all.]]> 207 Cate C. Wells Has 4 3.33 2023 Return to Monte Carlo
author: Cate C. Wells
name: Has
average rating: 3.33
book published: 2023
rating: 4
read at: 2024/04/25
date added: 2024/04/25
shelves:
review:

]]> <![CDATA[Archangel's Lineage (Guild Hunter, #16)]]> 194802749 New York Times bestselling author Nalini Singh’s dangerous and beautiful world of archangels, vampires, and mortals has never faced a threat this cataclysmic�

Raphael and Elena are experiencing their first ever year of true peace. No war. No horrors of archangelic power. No nightmares given flesh. Until…the earth beneath the Refuge begins to tremble, endangering not only angelkind’s precious and fragile young, but the very place that has held their most innocent safe for eons.

Amid the chaos, Elena’s father suffers a violent heart attack that threatens to extinguish their last chance to heal the bonds between them and make sense of the ruins of their agonizing shared history.

Even as Elena battles grief, Raphael is torn from her side by the sudden disappearance of an archangel. But worse yet is to come. An Ancestor, an angel unlike any other, stirs from his Sleep to warn the Cadre of a darkness so terrible that it causes empires to fall and civilizations to vanish.

This time, even the Cadre itself may not be able to stop a ticking clock that is counting down at frightening speed…]]> 398 Nalini Singh Has 5 4.59 2024 Archangel's Lineage (Guild Hunter, #16)
author: Nalini Singh
name: Has
average rating: 4.59
book published: 2024
rating: 5
read at:
date added: 2024/04/23
shelves:
review:

]]> <![CDATA[Claimed by the Horde King (Horde Kings of Dakkar, #2)]]> 175636652 She broke their laws. Now, he has come to punish her�

In my human settlement on the hostile plains of Dakkar, I am an outcast, a strange girl orphaned since birth, alone, and dreaming of a life I don't have. I hunt to survive, though it is forbidden, though it breaks the strict Dakkari laws that we all must follow.

When my desperate actions catch the attention of a Dakkari horde king—a cold, powerful, and merciless warrior leader, with eyes like flint and a body like steel—he seeks to punish me…and he succeeds.

But then he does the unexpected.

Instead of taking my life, he claims me as his own.

He steals me from my village and brings me back to his battle-bred horde. There, I warm his bed. I make bargains with him on starry, cold nights. I look into his grey eyes and see not a monster, but a demon king who captures my soul.

But demons have a way of never letting go…and as the cold season descends upon Dakkar, I begin to wonder if I even want him to, even when it hurts.

Claimed by the Horde King is a full-length SFR novel (95,000+ words) with an HEA. It is the second book of the Horde Kings of Dakkar series.]]> 358 Zoey Draven Has 5 4.08 2019 Claimed by the Horde King (Horde Kings of Dakkar, #2)
author: Zoey Draven
name: Has
average rating: 4.08
book published: 2019
rating: 5
read at: 2024/04/20
date added: 2024/04/19
shelves: alien-heroes, alpha-heroes, alphaholes-ahoy, re-read-oldies-but-goodies, sci-fi, sci-fi-romance, wtfery-books-alien-peen
review:

]]> <![CDATA[Captive of the Horde King (Horde Kings of Dakkar, #1)]]> 44571879 She made a deal with the Dakkari devil. Now, he owns her.

On the unforgiving planet of Dakkar, I did what all the humans in our village did: kept my head down, worked to provide for my family, and I certainly didn’t break any Dakkari laws to risk inciting the alien race’s merciless wrath.

Unfortunately, the same couldn’t be said for my brother and one careless mistake brings a horde of the nomadic, barbarian Dakkari straight to our doorstep, led by their powerful horde king—a cold, ruthless, battle-scarred warrior demanding retribution.

In order to save my brother’s life, I do the unthinkable.

I sell myself to the horde king as his war prize. I agree to warm his furs, to travel with his horde across the wild lands of Dakkar, and to never see my family again.

But as I struggle with my new reality, I discover that the surly, mysterious, dominant horde king never intended for me to be his concubine�

He wants me as his queen.]]> 327 Zoey Draven Has 4 4.02 2019 Captive of the Horde King (Horde Kings of Dakkar, #1)
author: Zoey Draven
name: Has
average rating: 4.02
book published: 2019
rating: 4
read at: 2024/12/28
date added: 2024/04/19
shelves: rereading, alien-heroes, alpha-heroes, alphaholes-ahoy, re-read-oldies-but-goodies, sci-fi, sci-fi-romance
review:

]]> Forewarned (Fated Love #1) 204964392 But me? I know who my mine is. And I don't want him.
My name is Astrid. I'm a fae, a seer and a healer.
Not much scares me. But him?
That's the darkness I'm never going to let catch me.

“Chantal takes Romantasy, and hand delivers you a masterpiece set in an evocative world of fated mates and enemies to lovers. I was entrapped from the very first page, and didn’t want to leave after closing the last. Enthralling, addicting, and so damn hot.� - Amo Jones (USA Today & Wall Street Journal Bestselling Author)

"Fast-paced and all-consuming, Chantal Fernando doesn't just try her hand at Romantasy... she reigns supreme! Somebody just hand her a crown, already." - Belle Aurora

Forewarned is book one in the new gripping, sexy, romantic fantasy series by Chantal Fernando.]]> 232 Chantal Fernando Has 0 to-read 3.83 2024 Forewarned (Fated Love #1)
author: Chantal Fernando
name: Has
average rating: 3.83
book published: 2024
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2024/04/18
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> <![CDATA[Captive of the Horde King (Horde Kings of Dakkar, #1)]]> 175635283 She made a deal with the Dakkari devil. Now, he owns her.

On the unforgiving planet of Dakkar, I did what all the humans in our village did: kept my head down, worked to provide for my family, and I certainly didn’t break any Dakkari laws to risk inciting the alien race’s merciless wrath.

Unfortunately, the same couldn’t be said for my brother and one careless mistake brings a horde of the nomadic, barbarian Dakkari straight to our doorstep, led by their powerful horde king—a cold, ruthless, battle-scarred warrior demanding retribution.

In order to save my brother’s life, I do the unthinkable.

I sell myself to the horde king as his war prize. I agree to warm his furs, to travel with his horde across the wild lands of Dakkar, and to never see my family again.

But as I struggle with my new reality, I discover that the surly, mysterious, dominant horde king never intended for me to be his concubine�

He wants me as his queen.]]> 314 Zoey Draven Has 0 3.90 2019 Captive of the Horde King (Horde Kings of Dakkar, #1)
author: Zoey Draven
name: Has
average rating: 3.90
book published: 2019
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2024/04/18
shelves: alien-heroes, alpha-heroes, alphaholes-ahoy, romance, sci-fi, sci-fi-romance, wtfery-books-alien-peen, rereading
review:

]]> <![CDATA[Warriors of Luxiria Boxed Set: Books 1-4]]> 199290901 The first four books of the Warriors of Luxiria series are now available in this exclusive boxed set!

Welcome to Luxiria, where the twin suns are hot and the alien warriors are hotter�

THE ALIEN’S PRIZE and THE ALIEN’S MATE DUOLOGY
When Kate wakes up chained on an alien planet known as the Pit, her whole reality flips upside down. Here, aliens fight to the death for the right to claim a human female. Even worse? She realizes she’s up for grabs. Vaxa’an, the Prime Leader of Luxiria, has a duty to his ensure their dwindling race’s survival. Infamously ruthless and deadly, the Luxirian king knows he’ll have no trouble claiming a female at the Pit. What he doesn’t expect to find is his fated mate, with her lush curves and haunting eyes that call to him, and he’ll stop at nothing to claim her.

THE ALIEN’S LOVER
Being abducted by aliens and sold to an intergalactic fight club wasn't exactly on Beks� bucket list. That is, until a hot and fierce alien warrior springs her from her caged prison. Ambassador Lihvan, one of the deadliest war generals on Luxiria, is known for his unyielding strength and infamous resolve. When he rescues Beks and discovers a woman who delights in teasing him beyond his tightly reined control, he fears she may be the one to finally break him. He might even crave it.

THE ALIEN’S TOUCH
Cecelia has always rolled with life's punches. Growing up in a broken home? Check. Cancer? Check. Getting rescued from a human trafficking ring by massive, horned alien warriors and transported to their planet? Triple check. But when her cancer returns, light-years away from Earth, Cecelia knows she needs her rescuers' help—except that help comes in the form of a hot, pierced, and ruthless warrior who thinks she's his...]]> 777 Zoey Draven Has 4 4.32 Warriors of Luxiria Boxed Set: Books 1-4
author: Zoey Draven
name: Has
average rating: 4.32
book published:
rating: 4
read at: 2024/04/17
date added: 2024/04/17
shelves: alpha-heroes, alphaholes-ahoy, sci-fi, sci-fi-romance, wtfery-books-alien-peen, alien-heroes
review:

]]> Helfyre (AgĂ­a Sahnta, #1) 60168514
After the death of her mother, Aheia finds herself stained by more blood than she can hide in the perpetual daylight of her home of Keloseros. She escapes the realm but pays the price: giving up her immortality and her powers–once a Mithra with light at her fingertips, she becomes near-mortal. Her desperate search for asylum leads her to the doorstep of the only place out of her abusive family’s reach—a realm that deals in death and darkness unapologetically—Aljira

But nothing in this world is free, and to buy her way to dubious safety, she’s forced to give up the only thing she has left to barter.
Her soul in exchange for seven days in the devil's realm.
Arioch, the ruler of the Nephilim, is eager to dangle his new little pet in front of the Mithra who have caused irreparable damage in his life, but he doesn’t expect the effect Aheia’s soul has on both of them once it's stamped on his arm. The pull between them is all-consuming-- they crave each other, between sharp words and angry exchanges in an increasingly passionate bond that threatens to shatter the delicate balance of everything.

Arioch and Aheia...

Keloseros and Aljira�

Even life and death.]]> Mariel Pomeroy Has 0 to-read 3.62 Helfyre (AgĂ­a Sahnta, #1)
author: Mariel Pomeroy
name: Has
average rating: 3.62
book published:
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2024/04/16
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> <![CDATA[White Horse Black Nights (The Godkissed Bride, #1)]]> 195934852
Locked away for twelve years, Sabine Darrow’s only friends are animals she communicates with using magic. Now, sold as a bride to a villainous high lord, her greatest fear is trading one prison for another. But a potential escape lies in the form of her gruff yet achingly handsome guard, whose loyalty she is determined to break.

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

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

Drawing inspiration from Snow White and the Lady Godiva legend, WHITE HORSE BLACK NIGHTS is a dark enemies-to-lovers fantasy romance that will take you on a journey you’ll never forget. This captivating story of a girl with a special gift is perfect for fans of Sarah J. Maas and Jennifer Armentrout!]]> 416 Evie Marceau Has 0 to-read 3.80 2023 White Horse Black Nights (The Godkissed Bride, #1)
author: Evie Marceau
name: Has
average rating: 3.80
book published: 2023
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2024/04/16
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> <![CDATA[Sanctuary (Roman’s Chronicles, #1)]]> 211202747
Roman would like nothing more than to be left alone, but when a wounded boy stumbles into his yard and begs for sanctuary, Roman takes him in. Now elite mercenaries are camped out on his property, combat mages are dousing the house with fire, and strange priests are unleashing arcane magic. They thought Roman was easy pickings, just a hermit in the woods, but they chose the wrong dark priest to annoy. For while Roman might be patient, he is the Black Volhv, filled with the love of his terrible god. For his adversaries, it's a fight to the death, but for him, it's just another day in the neighborhood.]]> 152 Ilona Andrews 1641972866 Has 0 to-read 4.35 2024 Sanctuary (Roman’s Chronicles, #1)
author: Ilona Andrews
name: Has
average rating: 4.35
book published: 2024
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2024/04/15
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> Sole Survivor 209275754
One who kills without hesitation and remorse.

When Rue Anderson, the killer’s tenth victim, is found in a shallow grave at a children’s park, it sends shockwaves through the local community and sparks a media frenzy.

But there is a difference between Rue and the nine victims that came before her.

Rue survived.

Left with a scar on her soul and her memory in tatters,

Rue finds herself drawn to Valen Ward, the dark and enigmatic man who reminds her there is more to life than just existing.

But Rue’s future is as uncertain as her past.

And though Valen holds her close, he might also be the reason Rue’s world was torn apart.

Every secret has the power to break her, but nothing proves to be more fatal than the truth.

Not when she’s the sole survivor.

And he’s the prime suspect.
Read less]]> Candice M. Wright Has 4 4.19 Sole Survivor
author: Candice M. Wright
name: Has
average rating: 4.19
book published:
rating: 4
read at: 2024/04/14
date added: 2024/04/14
shelves: alpha-heroes, alphaholes-ahoy, bad-boy-heroes, dark-romance
review:
This was a seriously dark and twisted serial killer story, although I guessed the main twist at the beginning. But the ending was jaw-dropping, that I am still thinking about it. This was an enjoyable dark romance, but it does have a lot of triggers, but I was intrigued by the plot, and I liked the romance.
]]> <![CDATA[A Promise of Peridot (The Sacred Stones, #2)]]> 175345169 A prophecy of death. A weapon of hope. A sacrifice of love.

Arwen Valondale is sailing for the mysterious Kingdom of Citrine after the battle of Siren's Bay. Reeling from shocking revelations and her newfound powers, Arwen directs all of her pain and rage toward the man who betrayed her: King Kane Ravenwood.

Kane's presence is unavoidable as he travels with Arwen and her friends to seek the Blade of the Sun, a legendary weapon inextricably tied to her fate and the future of the realm. Even an uneasy truce proves difficult as Arwen fights against her unresolved feelings for Kane, who is willing to become darkness itself to protect her.

As Arwen faces creatures, foes, and magic beyond her wildest imaginings, she must discover the secrets of her past to defeat the monstrous Fae king Lazarus. But finding the light within might mean the death of her and everyone she loves.]]> 482 Kate Golden 1529434076 Has 4
I am a huge fan of fantasy romance and in recent years, the subgenre has exploded in popularity that it actually gained a new name, Romantasy with common tropes of a morally grey hero and a powerful resourceful heroine with a quest or trial and an ethereal world. When I first came across this series last year, I was instantly enthralled. The first book, Dawn of Onyx (you can read my review from yesterday here), sets up the story of Arwen, a healer who gets embroiled in warring kingdoms, an enigmatic dark king and a secret prophecy that will save the fate of all the inhabitants of the Stone kingdoms as well as the fae.  But like all prophecies there is always that horrible price to pay and this sets up A Promise of Peridot, after the explosive ending of a Dawn of Onyx, 

Arwen, who has witnessed the violent death of her mother in the previous book, as well as the betrayal of Kane, the Onyx King who withheld the knowledge of a prophecy which she is key to defeating the true threat to the kingdoms of Evendell. Their relationship is fractured and tense because Arwen is in a turmoil of emotions due to the lack of trust as well as her grief  over her mother’s death. While Kane is racked with guilt with the way he has handled by not entrusting Arwen with the truth that she is destined to die because the prophecy has dictated that as the last full fae, she is the only one who is able to kill Lazarus who is on the path to destroying their world.

I loved that Kate Golden has expanded more of the surrounding Stone kingdoms, and we get to see a magical underwater kingdom, Citrine which is ruled by the mer race, a treasure hunt for a powerful blade that had shades of an Indiana Jones quest which was exciting and nerve wracking and a prison island. Although I wished there was a bit more time spent exploring these settings, because they were rich and vivid. I also enjoyed the colourful and at times exotic tapestry of the worldbuilding. The main plot for the quest to find the blade which is the only way to kill Lazarus, who is Kane’s father was fast paced and I was sad that I breezed through this book so quickly and it definitely didn’t suffer from the middle book syndrome. 

But the real highlight is the romance between Kane and Arwen, I loved how their relationship evolved from the first installment, which had a fun, flirty vibe to a more deeper angst filled one because of the fallout at the ending in Dawn of Onyx, which added more depth to their relationship. I loved the push and pull overtones and while they were obstacles, I liked that they both learned from their mistakes and the yearning between them. And oh wow! I could literally feel that from reading their scenes, I adored it. I especially love that Kate Golden used the redeemable rake trope with Kane, who is truly head over heels in love with Arwen and despite his feelings is willing to sacrifice everything to give her space and freedom.

I think I loved A Promise of Peridot even more than the first book, and I am eagerly awaiting the final book, A Realm of Rose which is out later this year. Overall, this was a fast paced, imaginative and rich world, with endearing and fleshed out characters and a romance that is not only filled with angst filled yearning but sparkling banter and a sexual tension that grabs you with the feels. 

I give A Promise of Peridot a B+]]> 4.02 2024 A Promise of Peridot (The Sacred Stones, #2)
author: Kate Golden
name: Has
average rating: 4.02
book published: 2024
rating: 4
read at: 2024/04/12
date added: 2024/04/13
shelves: alpha-heroes, alphaholes-ahoy, bad-boy-heroes, courtly-intrigue, fantasy-romance
review:
Crosspost from The Book Pushers.

I am a huge fan of fantasy romance and in recent years, the subgenre has exploded in popularity that it actually gained a new name, Romantasy with common tropes of a morally grey hero and a powerful resourceful heroine with a quest or trial and an ethereal world. When I first came across this series last year, I was instantly enthralled. The first book, Dawn of Onyx (you can read my review from yesterday here), sets up the story of Arwen, a healer who gets embroiled in warring kingdoms, an enigmatic dark king and a secret prophecy that will save the fate of all the inhabitants of the Stone kingdoms as well as the fae.  But like all prophecies there is always that horrible price to pay and this sets up A Promise of Peridot, after the explosive ending of a Dawn of Onyx, 

Arwen, who has witnessed the violent death of her mother in the previous book, as well as the betrayal of Kane, the Onyx King who withheld the knowledge of a prophecy which she is key to defeating the true threat to the kingdoms of Evendell. Their relationship is fractured and tense because Arwen is in a turmoil of emotions due to the lack of trust as well as her grief  over her mother’s death. While Kane is racked with guilt with the way he has handled by not entrusting Arwen with the truth that she is destined to die because the prophecy has dictated that as the last full fae, she is the only one who is able to kill Lazarus who is on the path to destroying their world.

I loved that Kate Golden has expanded more of the surrounding Stone kingdoms, and we get to see a magical underwater kingdom, Citrine which is ruled by the mer race, a treasure hunt for a powerful blade that had shades of an Indiana Jones quest which was exciting and nerve wracking and a prison island. Although I wished there was a bit more time spent exploring these settings, because they were rich and vivid. I also enjoyed the colourful and at times exotic tapestry of the worldbuilding. The main plot for the quest to find the blade which is the only way to kill Lazarus, who is Kane’s father was fast paced and I was sad that I breezed through this book so quickly and it definitely didn’t suffer from the middle book syndrome. 

But the real highlight is the romance between Kane and Arwen, I loved how their relationship evolved from the first installment, which had a fun, flirty vibe to a more deeper angst filled one because of the fallout at the ending in Dawn of Onyx, which added more depth to their relationship. I loved the push and pull overtones and while they were obstacles, I liked that they both learned from their mistakes and the yearning between them. And oh wow! I could literally feel that from reading their scenes, I adored it. I especially love that Kate Golden used the redeemable rake trope with Kane, who is truly head over heels in love with Arwen and despite his feelings is willing to sacrifice everything to give her space and freedom.

I think I loved A Promise of Peridot even more than the first book, and I am eagerly awaiting the final book, A Realm of Rose which is out later this year. Overall, this was a fast paced, imaginative and rich world, with endearing and fleshed out characters and a romance that is not only filled with angst filled yearning but sparkling banter and a sexual tension that grabs you with the feels. 

I give A Promise of Peridot a B+
]]> <![CDATA[A Dawn of Onyx (The Sacred Stones, #1)]]> 195775182 Captured by a king of darkness. Forced to find the light within.

Arwen Valondale never expected to be the brave one, offering her life to save her brother’s. Now she’s been taken prisoner by the most dangerous kingdom on the continent, and made to use her rare magical abilities to heal the soldiers of the vicious Onyx King.

Arwen knows better than to face the ancient, wicked woods that surround the castle on her own, which means working with a fellow prisoner might be her only path to freedom. Unfortunately, he’s as infuriating as he is cunning—and seems to take twisted pleasure in playing on Arwen’s deepest fears.

But here in Onyx Kingdom, trust is a luxury she can’t afford.

To make it out of enemy territory, she'll have to navigate back-stabbing royals, dark magic, and dangerous beasts. But untold power lies inside Arwen, dormant and waiting for a spark. If she can harness it, she just might be able to escape with her life—and hopefully, her heart.]]> 432 Kate Golden Has 4
Sometime last year I came across this trilogy on a facebook group, which peaked my interest. It had all the hallmarks of something I like, such as a heroine who is a healer and a mysterious morally grey hero, which is my catnip.  So I picked it up and I am so glad that I did. The story focuses on Arwen, an ordinary girl from a small town in Amber in the midst of a war that is about to wrench her family apart. After her brother makes a mistake that forces her to sacrifice her freedom to save him and her mother and sister, she is captured by enemy soldiers. Because of her healing skills, instead of being killed, she is taken to the Onyx Kingdom, which is the enemy of her people and becomes their healer and soon gets ensnared in intrigue and danger as well as fighting off sensual attraction with a rakish mysterious man.

A Dawn of Onyx, is an interesting and intriguing mix of mystery that almost had gothic overtones with a dark kingdom filled with shadows and hidden secrets. Arwen is thrust into a world where she navigates with her wits and courage that she soon discovers within and gains confidence to face unknown dangers and threats. I really liked that she never let her fears overcome her and over the course of the story she realises that not everything is all it seems with what she is told about her world and the powerful people who rule it. 

While discovering new truths about the war, she befriends new people, like Mari, a witch and a swordmaster who helps to hone her skills with a sword. Meanwhile, a mysterious and rakish man who helped to comfort her with his sardonic charm during her first night at the dungeons, slowly develops an irresistible attraction which is filled with sizzling banter. I loved how this helped their tension together and their scenes came alive. But of course nothing all is simple with kingdom and secrets are unveiled that rocks Arwen’s world. 

I loved the growing romance between Arwen and Kane, this was such a joy to read when they were together on page, the humour and sexual tension between them was fantastic and added a frisson of passion to the story. Although the main plot slowly unveiled story threads to an explosive cliffhanger ending, I was glued to my kindle to see what would happen next. 

A Dawn of Onyx is a highly enjoyable fantasy romance with engaging leads with a wonderful sexy romance that is brimming full of spice and tension. The rich worldbuilding and tense pace promises that this trilogy is one for fantasy romance fans who love a memorable romance amidst a vivid world. 

I give a Dawn of Onyx a B! ]]> 3.86 2022 A Dawn of Onyx (The Sacred Stones, #1)
author: Kate Golden
name: Has
average rating: 3.86
book published: 2022
rating: 4
read at: 2024/02/06
date added: 2024/04/13
shelves:
review:
Crosspost from The Book Pushers.

Sometime last year I came across this trilogy on a facebook group, which peaked my interest. It had all the hallmarks of something I like, such as a heroine who is a healer and a mysterious morally grey hero, which is my catnip.  So I picked it up and I am so glad that I did. The story focuses on Arwen, an ordinary girl from a small town in Amber in the midst of a war that is about to wrench her family apart. After her brother makes a mistake that forces her to sacrifice her freedom to save him and her mother and sister, she is captured by enemy soldiers. Because of her healing skills, instead of being killed, she is taken to the Onyx Kingdom, which is the enemy of her people and becomes their healer and soon gets ensnared in intrigue and danger as well as fighting off sensual attraction with a rakish mysterious man.

A Dawn of Onyx, is an interesting and intriguing mix of mystery that almost had gothic overtones with a dark kingdom filled with shadows and hidden secrets. Arwen is thrust into a world where she navigates with her wits and courage that she soon discovers within and gains confidence to face unknown dangers and threats. I really liked that she never let her fears overcome her and over the course of the story she realises that not everything is all it seems with what she is told about her world and the powerful people who rule it. 

While discovering new truths about the war, she befriends new people, like Mari, a witch and a swordmaster who helps to hone her skills with a sword. Meanwhile, a mysterious and rakish man who helped to comfort her with his sardonic charm during her first night at the dungeons, slowly develops an irresistible attraction which is filled with sizzling banter. I loved how this helped their tension together and their scenes came alive. But of course nothing all is simple with kingdom and secrets are unveiled that rocks Arwen’s world. 

I loved the growing romance between Arwen and Kane, this was such a joy to read when they were together on page, the humour and sexual tension between them was fantastic and added a frisson of passion to the story. Although the main plot slowly unveiled story threads to an explosive cliffhanger ending, I was glued to my kindle to see what would happen next. 

A Dawn of Onyx is a highly enjoyable fantasy romance with engaging leads with a wonderful sexy romance that is brimming full of spice and tension. The rich worldbuilding and tense pace promises that this trilogy is one for fantasy romance fans who love a memorable romance amidst a vivid world. 

I give a Dawn of Onyx a B! 
]]> <![CDATA[Darkest Sins (Perfectly Imperfect, #9)]]> 199599389 NERA

In a night of blood and death,
Fate brought us together.
I thought I was saving the life of an innocent man,
A man I'd never see again.
I was wrong.

A slight shift in the air.
A glint of silver eyes in the darkness.
I may not see him, but I know he's there.
My angel of death,
Lurking in the shadows,
Watching over me.
Protecting me,
Before disappearing into thin air,
Until we meet again.

A man who took a bullet for me,
But he won't touch me,
Love me,
Or even share his name.


KAI

Darkness. Pain. Blood.
It's all I have ever known.
An empty shell of a human being,
No heart. No soul. No dreams.
Surrounded by death,
I was a dead man walking.

But then, her light shone through my darkness,
Breathing life into my dead soul.
My fearless tiger cub,
My only reason to keep living.

Every time I have to leave her in the light,
My black heart breaks and bleeds,
As I retreat to the shadows,
Where I belong.

I cannot change the past,
Cannot take back what I have done.
My darkest sin.

*Darkest Sins is a full-length novel with several open-door steamy scenes, no cheating and a guaranteed HEA. This is book 9 in Perfectly Imperfect mafia series. Each book in this series features a different couple and can be read as a standalone, but for maximum enjoyment, follow the recommended reading order.]]> 372 Neva Altaj Has 5 4.15 2024 Darkest Sins (Perfectly Imperfect, #9)
author: Neva Altaj
name: Has
average rating: 4.15
book published: 2024
rating: 5
read at: 2024/04/05
date added: 2024/04/05
shelves: alpha-heroes, alphaholes-ahoy, assassins, dark-romance, mafia-romance, slow-burn
review:

]]> <![CDATA[The Gods of Men (Gods of Men, #1)]]> 42554599 Top 10 Finalist in Mark Lawrence's SPFBO 2018

Sable hated the gods. She hated what men did in their name.

Magic is forbidden throughout the Five Provinces; those born with it are hunted and killed. Sable doesn’t know her music holds power over souls—not until, at age nine, she plays her flute before the desert court and accidentally stops her baby sister’s heart, killing her. Horrified by what she’s done and fearing for her life, she flees north, out of Provincial jurisdiction and into the frigid land of exiles and thieves, known as The Wilds. There, Sable lives in hiding, burdened by guilt, and survives as a healer. But now, ten years later, someone—or something—is hunting her.

On the run again, Sable’s best chance for survival is Jos, a lethal man from the Five Provinces, who claims to need her skills as a healer to save his dying father, and she needs the large sum of money he’s offered. There’s something about him Sable doesn’t trust, but she doesn’t have many options. A spirit of the dead is hunting her, summoned by a mysterious necromancer, and it’s getting closer.

Sable soon discovers she’s just the start of the necromancer’s plan to take over the Five Provinces, and she’s the only one with the power to stop it. But harnessing her forbidden power means revealing it to the world, and the dangerous Provincial, Jos, she’s beginning to fall for.

Fans of Brandon Sanderson, Naomi Novik, and Victoria Schwab will love this dark and epic fantasy adventure. ]]> 452 Barbara Kloss Has 0 to-read 4.13 2018 The Gods of Men (Gods of Men, #1)
author: Barbara Kloss
name: Has
average rating: 4.13
book published: 2018
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2024/04/01
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> Embers in the Snow 198792452
I always knew the day would come. I just didn't think it would be so soon.

I'm betrothed.

I imagined my future husband would be some minor lord; maybe an old, uncomely man who'd only value me for the fact that I would bear him heirs.

I never thought my father would go to the capital and seek an audience with Emperor Valdon Duthriss himself. What unholy deal did he make with the emperor that I, a mere baron's daughter, would end up betrothed to that man?

The son.

Corvan Duthriss.

War hero. Commander. Fallen.

They say the war in the Northlands changed him. Alongside his armies, he fought dark magic in the mountains. And the magic itself transformed him. They say he's changed beyond recognition. That he refuses to show his face in the capital because he can no longer walk under the sun.

He's also the emperor's firstborn.

The once-heir to the Rahavan Empire.

And it's unheard of for a baron's daughter like me to marry into the powerful Duthriss family.

They're shipping me off before winter's end. To the cold, forbidding north. To the Cursed Archduke of Tyron.

I'll go. I have no choice. There's too much at stake.

I can only pray that Corvan Duthriss isn't as terrible as the rumors make him out to be.]]> 498 Anna Carven Has 4 3.93 2023 Embers in the Snow
author: Anna Carven
name: Has
average rating: 3.93
book published: 2023
rating: 4
read at: 2024/01/31
date added: 2024/01/31
shelves: alpha-heroes, fantasy-romance, nom-nom-nom-heroes, paranormal-romance, slow-burn, vampires
review:

]]> <![CDATA[When the Moon Hatched (Moonfall, #1)]]> 202507554 moons.

They certainly did not expect them to fall.

As a valued Elding Blade of the rebellion group Fíur du Ath, Raeve’s job is to kill. To complete orders and never get caught. When a renowned bounty hunter is employed by The Crown to capture a member of the Ath, Raeve’s world is turned upside down. Blood spills, hearts break, and Raeve finds herself at the mercy of the Guild of Nobles—a group of dual-beaded elementals who intend to turn her into a political statement. Only death will set her free.

Crushed beneath a mourning weight, Kaan Vaegor took the head of a king and donned his melted crown. Now on a tireless quest to assuage the never-ebbing ache in his chest, his hunt for a moonshard lures him into the belly of Gore’s notorious prison where he stumbles upon something that rips apart his perception of reality. A shackled miracle with eyes full of rage and blood on her hands.

The echo of the past sings louder than the Creators themselves, and even Raeve can’t ignore the truths blaring at her from a warmer, happier time.
However.
There’s more to this song than meets the eye, and some truths �
They’re too poisonous to swallow.

When the Moon Hatched is a fast-paced fantasy romance for fans of witty banter and strong, sassy protagonists. Beneath the cover is an immersive, vibrant world with mysterious creatures, a unique magic system, and a love that blazes through the ages. ]]> 718 Sarah A. Parker Has 0 to-read 3.99 2024 When the Moon Hatched (Moonfall, #1)
author: Sarah A. Parker
name: Has
average rating: 3.99
book published: 2024
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2024/01/28
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> <![CDATA[House of Bane and Blood (Order and Chaos, #1)]]> 195138739
An heiress in the most notorious family in Lynchaven, Camilla Marchese is doing all she can to keep her family’s syndicate, the Iron Saint Railway, from slipping into bankruptcy. When the gorgeous and depraved Nicolai Attano, the leader of a rival family, offers to pay off the Inspector in exchange for her hand, she has no choice but to give up not only her throne—but her name.

Nico has his own motivations for their union beyond maintaining peace with her family. A serial kidnapper known as The Collector has been ravaging the streets of Remnant Row, stirring up mistrust between natives and descendants. If Milla can help restore safety to his streets, he’ll have no need for her or her family’s company. Find the Collector, prevent a war between their sides of the city, and pay off the family debt before she turns twenty-one. If Milla can fulfill her end of the bargain, she’ll walk away with more freedom than she’s ever had before.

But this deal plunges Milla into the city’s dark underbelly where remnant magic and arcane science compete in a deadly game of depravity. When forbidden feelings rise for her new husband and dark family secrets come to light, Milla must discover the truth about her past before it gets them both killed or worse—collected.

Set in a post-industrial age setting on a magical Isle, Peaky Blinders meets the magic system of the Grishaverse in this rivals-to-lovers adult fantasy romance.]]> 432 Alexis L. Menard Has 0 to-read 3.99 2023 House of Bane and Blood (Order and Chaos, #1)
author: Alexis L. Menard
name: Has
average rating: 3.99
book published: 2023
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2024/01/17
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> <![CDATA[Silent Lies (Perfectly Imperfect, #8)]]> 184470846 DRAGO

There is only one punishment for spies and liars,
A slow and painful death.
And my sweet, angelic wife,
Who bewitched everyone in my home,
From my men - even to my dogs,
Is the worst traitor of all.

But it seems I have fallen under her spell as well,
With every smile, every ridiculous outfit,
I'm struggling,
And failing.

I want to hate her,
But instead, I'm yearning to hear,
Every silent lie that leaves her irresistible lips.


SIENNA

Only show them what I want them to see,
Never let them in.
That's how I handle things.

I may have agreed to this marriage,
But I'll never be his,
Never let him see beneath my mask.

But with every passing day,
It's getting harder to fulfill my task,
I'm struggling,
And failing.

I am falling in love,
With the man I vowed to betray.


*Silent Lies is book 8 in Perfectly Imperfect mafia series. Each book in this series features a different couple and can be read as a standalone, but for maximum enjoyment, follow the recommended reading order. No cheating and a guaranteed HEA.]]> 342 Neva Altaj 1961423103 Has 4 4.20 2023 Silent Lies (Perfectly Imperfect, #8)
author: Neva Altaj
name: Has
average rating: 4.20
book published: 2023
rating: 4
read at:
date added: 2023/12/25
shelves: alpha-heroes, alphaholes-ahoy, assassins, bad-boy-heroes, book-crack, contemporary-romance, dark-romance, mafia-romance
review:

]]> <![CDATA[The Hurricane Wars (The Hurricane Wars, #1)]]> 75668288 The heart is a battlefield.

All Talasyn has ever known is the Hurricane Wars. Growing up an orphan in a nation under siege by the ruthless Night Emperor, Talasyn has found her family among the soldiers who fight for freedom. But she is hiding a deadly secret: light magic courses through her veins, a blazing power believed to have been wiped out years ago that can cut through the Night Empire's shadows.

Prince Alaric, the emperor's only son and heir, has been forged into a weapon by his father. Tasked with obliterating any threats to the Night Empire's rule with the strength of his armies and mighty Shadow magic, Alaric has never been bested. That is until he sees Talasyn burning brightly on the battlefield with the magic that killed his grandfather, turned his father into a monster, and ignited the Hurricane Wars. In a clash of light and dark, their powers merge and create a force the likes of which has never been seen.

Talasyn and Alaric both know this war can only end with them. But a greater threat is coming, and the strange new magic they can create together could be the only way to overcome it. Thrust into an uneasy alliance, they will confront the secrets at the heart of the war and find, in each other, a searing passion--one that could save their world...or destroy it.

An exquisite fantasy brimming with unforgettable characters, sizzling enemies-to-lovers romance, and richly drawn worlds, The Hurricane Wars marks the breathtaking debut of an extraordinary new writer.]]> 472 Thea Guanzon 0063277271 Has 0 to-read 3.65 2023 The Hurricane Wars (The Hurricane Wars, #1)
author: Thea Guanzon
name: Has
average rating: 3.65
book published: 2023
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2023/10/10
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> <![CDATA[Broken Wings (Broken Legacy, #1)]]> 198472137
Welcome to the Royal Rider Military Academy, where only the ruthless survive.
Twenty-year-old Ainsley No-Name is nothing. She’s less than nothing. Just another faceless orphan stealing to feed her foster brothers and sisters. When three men snatch her off the street and drag her into the woods, she knows it’s the end.

Until she came.

Scales the color of flame and brimstone, a dragon drops out of the sky and saves her. With that, the sacred bond between rider and dragon is formed�
…and her execution is set in stone.

In Adalinda, there is one law held above all else. Any peasant who bonds with a dragon will be put to death.
Left with no choice, Ainsley claims the only royal line that can’t be traced. The Royal House of Boreen, daughter of the missing Queen Kisandra, and heir to the throne of Adalinda.

A simple plot to keep her life and her dragon becomes anything but. The powers behind the throne will not bow down to a mysterious waif who appeared out of nowhere, and his name is Dominic Roark.

Handsome, powerful, infuriating, teasing Dominic wants her dead. He wants the dragon she stole from him. He wants the throne she claimed as her birthright.

Their enemies are getting stronger, bolder, and closer. With each strike from the shadows, they're bringing Adalinda to the brink of a war the kingdom won't survive.

But Dominic... his war is with her.]]> 533 R.A. Vincent Has 0 to-read 3.68 2023 Broken Wings (Broken Legacy, #1)
author: R.A. Vincent
name: Has
average rating: 3.68
book published: 2023
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2023/10/08
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> <![CDATA[The Solar War (The Long Winter, #2)]]> 44164651 We thought the war was over.
We were wrong.

They decimated Earth during the Long Winter.
Now the grid has returned, and they won't stop until the human race is extinct.

On a ruined world, humanity's last survivors fight against impossible odds. In their darkest hour, they discover a new hope for survival. But it comes at an unthinkable price, with consequences that will change everything.]]> 498 A.G. Riddle Has 3 4.01 2019 The Solar War (The Long Winter, #2)
author: A.G. Riddle
name: Has
average rating: 4.01
book published: 2019
rating: 3
read at: 2023/09/13
date added: 2023/09/13
shelves: sci-fi, sci-fi-romance, thrillers
review:

]]> <![CDATA[Winter World (The Long Winter, #1)]]> 43720168 A new ice age... and a shocking discovery...
will change humanity forever.

In the near future, a new ice age has begun.

Humanity stands on the brink of extinction.

Desperate for answers, scientists send probes into the solar system to take readings. Near Mars, a probe spots a mysterious object drifting toward the Sun. Is it the cause of the ice age? Or could it be our only hope of survival?

With time running out, NASA launches an international mission to make contact with the object. But it isn’t what anyone thought. In the dark of space, alone, the team makes a shocking discovery that will change the course of human history—and possibly end it.]]> 472 A.G. Riddle 1940026202 Has 4 4.18 2019 Winter World (The Long Winter, #1)
author: A.G. Riddle
name: Has
average rating: 4.18
book published: 2019
rating: 4
read at: 2023/09/12
date added: 2023/09/12
shelves: psychological-thrillers, sci-fi
review:
Entertaining fast pace Sci fi post apocalyptic thriller with a cute side slow burn romance.
]]> <![CDATA[Craving in His Blood (Brides of the Kylorr #2)]]> 174106002
As the daughter of a traveling chef, I grew up flitting around different galaxies, immersing myself in fascinating cultures, and rubbing noses with socialites. Coming to Krynn was a new chapter, a permanent place to finally call home .

But when tragedy strikes and I’m suddenly alone, broke, and desperate, I take work at a dyaan . An establishment where the Kylorr—blood-drinking, winged, fearsome aliens with berserker-like rages—come to feed on willing necks to satisfy their fierce hunger.

That’s where I meet him. Kythel of House Kaalium, the ruler of Erzos, with his mesmerizing eyes like fractured ice and a sinful voice that captivates me.

We’re polar opposites. I’m a hopeful optimist who always looks for silver linings. He’s guarded and mistrustful, a wealthy heir to a powerful legacy, who thrives on rigid, unbending control. Yet he craves my blood with a frenzy that maddens him, and he’ll stop at nothing to claim me.

But when the forbidden desire between us becomes too tempting to resist, I fear it will destroy us both...especially when an impossible choice threatens to be our Duty or love?]]> 396 Zoey Draven Has 4 4.16 2023 Craving in His Blood (Brides of the Kylorr #2)
author: Zoey Draven
name: Has
average rating: 4.16
book published: 2023
rating: 4
read at: 2023/09/11
date added: 2023/09/11
shelves: alpha-heroes, alphaholes-ahoy, fantasy, sci-fi, sci-fi-romance, fantasy-romance
review:
Friends to lovers trope, with a hint of forbidden romance. Really enjoyed this second installment in this series. Zoey Draven is fast becoming a favourite author.
]]> <![CDATA[Rain of Shadows and Endings (Legacy, #1)]]> 123349658
Rain of Shadows and Endings is book one in The Legacy Series and ends on a cliffhanger. This is new adult dark fantasy romance series and includes elements that may be triggering to some readers.]]> 670 Melissa K. Roehrich Has 0 to-read 4.01 2023 Rain of Shadows and Endings (Legacy, #1)
author: Melissa K. Roehrich
name: Has
average rating: 4.01
book published: 2023
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2023/09/07
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> <![CDATA[Star Crossed (Forbidden Mates, #1)]]> 61764679
He’s duty-bound to protect her. Even if that means protecting her from himself.

Captain Lyra Hallas is no damsel in distress. Sure, she’s been abducted by an unknown alien race. And, yeah, those aliens are bigger, stronger, and more technologically advanced than humans can possibly compete with. And if that’s not enough, exposure to their bodily fluids reduces a woman to a shivering mess of sexual need. But Lyra’s spent her entire life fighting her way out of desperate situations, and she’s not about to give up now.

Asier Mor-Talis is a Scaeven Enforcer. He metes out justice—protecting the rest of the universe from the cruel, conquering nature of his own race. He’s incorruptible, driven by an innate sense of honor. But when he rescues a beautiful, clever human woman from a trafficking ring, all bets are off. Lyra is everything he could ever want in a mate, and the explosive attraction is a biological impulse that can’t be conquered. If he gives in, he shames himself, and destroys her life. If he doesn’t, he’ll lose her forever.

Pitted against hostile aliens, hostile planets, and hostile nations, Lyra and Asier must fight for their lives—and their hearts.]]> 246 Heather Guerre Has 3 3.39 Star Crossed (Forbidden Mates, #1)
author: Heather Guerre
name: Has
average rating: 3.39
book published:
rating: 3
read at:
date added: 2023/09/06
shelves: nom-nom-nom-heroes, sci-fi, sci-fi-romance
review:

]]> <![CDATA[Ten (Her Russian Protector, #11)]]> 196857200
There’s only one thing she wants to complete her life—Anton Vasiliev.

Infamous for his loyalty to the mafia family he serves, Ten, as he’s known in Houston’s criminal underworld, is big, battle-hardened, and alpha to the core. He’s the sort of man Nisha should shy away from, but he makes her ache with unfulfilled desire.

When her sadistic ex-husband escapes his prison transport, Nisha runs straight into Ten’s powerful, protective embrace. He vows to keep her safe—and in the process, she’ll discover what it means to be loved and worshipped as the curvy goddess she is.

As for her ex? Well, she’s not the scared shell of a woman she was when he tried to kill her. She’s reclaimed her power—and she has a score to settle.]]> 277 Roxie Rivera 1630420905 Has 3 3 and a half stars. 4.39 2023 Ten (Her Russian Protector, #11)
author: Roxie Rivera
name: Has
average rating: 4.39
book published: 2023
rating: 3
read at:
date added: 2023/08/30
shelves: alpha-heroes, assassins, bad-boy-heroes, book-crack, mafia-romance, romantic-suspense
review:
3 and a half stars.
]]> <![CDATA[Only Good Enemies (Galactic Bonds, #2)]]> 67684044 Une femme en mission... et un homme cerné par les ennemis.

Hier encore, Vesper Plume n’était qu’une modeste conceptrice de gadgets ménagers. Mais, grâce à sa clairvoyance et à sa détermination, elle est devenue noble dame et dirige une société florissante. Aujourd’hui, elle a un but : anéantir la Techwave, une dangereuse organisation qui a détourné ses créations et prévoit de les utiliser contre l’Imperium. Mais sa mission prend un tournant inattendu, et la voilà entourée de nouveaux ennemis et forcée de se battre pour sa vie.

Kyrion Caldaren, Leader des Flèches, la force d’élite de l’Imperium, a pour objectif de neutraliser la Techwave avant qu’il ne s’empare du contrôle de la galaxie de l’Archipel. Mais il poursuit aussi un but plus personnel : éliminer Callus Holloway, le dirigeant de l’Imperium qui rêve de voler son pouvoir psionique et menace Vesper. Malgré la distance et leur lien brisé, elle hante toujours ses pensées.

Lorsqu’il apprend que Vesper est en danger, ses priorités changent du tout au tout. Car il ferait n’importe quoi pour la sauver... quitte à mettre l’univers entier à feu et à sang.

#ScienceFiction #HĂ©roĂŻneBadass #Ă‚mesSĹ“urs]]> 414 Jennifer Estep 1950076172 Has 0 to-read 4.33 2023 Only Good Enemies (Galactic Bonds, #2)
author: Jennifer Estep
name: Has
average rating: 4.33
book published: 2023
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2023/08/30
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> <![CDATA[The Sinner and the Gunslinger (The Sinner Sisterhood #2)]]> 141316586
Chased by evil her whole life, Leila was accused of lighting the fire that killed her beloved foster brother Zeke. Now she’s one of the badass assassins fated to wield holy relics that will stop the apocalypse. But when Zeke turns up alive, handsome as the devil and working for her rivals, she’s forced to confront her worst fear� is she evil? Why else would he fake his death and abandon her?

Burdened by guilt, Zeke joined Team Saint as a gunslinging demon hunter to pursue a path of redemption. He failed everyone in his life� including the only girl he ever loved, his foster sister Leila. When an ancient prophecy drops him back into her life, he realizes he has a second chance at making things right. Easier said than done when she would rather he stayed dead.

As Lilith’s dark plan unfolds, Zeke and Leila are forced together on a desperate quest for a weapon that will stop the Horseman of War. Past wounds reopen, sins are confronted, trust is shattered, and passions ignite. And when lies are circling like sharks, their newly forged love could be the salvation the world needs� or the downfall of them all.

For fans of Buffy and Supernatural, this spicy paranormal romance weaves a tale of second chances, foster sibling bonds, and the struggle to reconcile secrets and lies. If you're drawn to stories of forbidden love, ancient prophecies, demon-hunting road trips, and the power of trust, immerse yourself in this captivating series about bad girls saving the world and the tortured heroes who captivate their hearts.

**Please Note: This series touches on taboo and dark topics, has explicit sexual content, demon-hunting-violence, and is unsuitable for the very young or those sensitive about religion, horror, and demons. HEA guaranteed.]]> 335 Lana Pecherczyk Has 0 to-read 4.25 2023 The Sinner and the Gunslinger (The Sinner Sisterhood #2)
author: Lana Pecherczyk
name: Has
average rating: 4.25
book published: 2023
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2023/08/23
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> <![CDATA[The Song of the Marked (Shadows & Crowns #1)]]> 123258511
Mercenary Casia Greythorne cares about two completing her latest job and earning enough coin for the expensive medicine that's keeping her mentor alive.

So when the king commands her to investigate a strange plague devastating the empire, she can't resist the massive reward he offers - even if it does mean working with the arrogant and infuriating Captain Elander.

But as the death toll rises and strange monsters wreak havoc across the realms, Cas and Elander find themselves up against meddling gods and very old magic.

Because an ancient evil is stirring in the shadows.

And their empire will not survive its full unleashing.]]> 538 S.M. Gaither 1804945811 Has 4
I did guess on one of the twists at the end of the book but the big reveal had my jaw dropping which I did not see coming! I'll definitely check out the next book of this series.]]> 3.81 2020 The Song of the Marked (Shadows & Crowns #1)
author: S.M. Gaither
name: Has
average rating: 3.81
book published: 2020
rating: 4
read at: 2023/08/22
date added: 2023/08/22
shelves:
review:
Interesting worldbuilding, there is a lot of indepth details especially with the mythology of the gods. I also found Cas to be relatable and likeable heroine who is scrappy, stubborn and vulnerable, and the romance was a delicious slow burn.

I did guess on one of the twists at the end of the book but the big reveal had my jaw dropping which I did not see coming! I'll definitely check out the next book of this series.
]]> <![CDATA[The Wicked in Me (Devil's Cradle #1)]]> 59470005
And they'll come for her.

Witch Wynter Dellavale knows that for certain. Because in unfairly trying to execute her, they started a chain of events they're struggling to stop.

Needing safety, she flees to Devil's Cradle, the home of monsters. A place for the outcasts, the fugitives, the crazies. A place ruled by the Ancients, seven beings who were once banished by the Aeons. Among the Ancients is the infamous Cain, brother of Abel and embodiment of jealousy � who, on another note, wants her in his bed.

There’s a heavy price for the safety the Ancients offer, but Wynter will have to pay it. She can't take on the Aeons alone. And she has no intention of dying � been there, done that.

Not that she'll be the easy prey the Aeons are expecting. They have no knowledge of the ... thing that lives inside her. You see, when witches are brought back from the afterlife, they don't always come back the same.

And they don't always come back alone.]]> 397 Suzanne Wright Has 4 3.93 2023 The Wicked in Me (Devil's Cradle #1)
author: Suzanne Wright
name: Has
average rating: 3.93
book published: 2023
rating: 4
read at:
date added: 2023/08/14
shelves: alpha-heroes, alphaholes-ahoy, bad-boy-heroes, fantasy-romance, humour, paranormal-romance, romance
review:

]]> The Pact 123216414 Their partnership would be no more than a business transaction, but what’s the point in holding out for love when it had granted her no guarantees in the past?
Maybe they could make a marriage work. Maybe. One thing is for certain: with the wounds of loss heavy on their souls and the fact that he’s given up on finding the big L again, friendship would be all they’d have.
Love would never enter their picture. Ever. Not even for a moment.
Right?]]> 581 Suzanne Wright Has 0 to-read 4.04 2023 The Pact
author: Suzanne Wright
name: Has
average rating: 4.04
book published: 2023
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2023/08/14
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> <![CDATA[The Borderlands Princess (Stone Circle #1)]]> 60763354 And even more can happen in a week...

***
What her people need, or what her heart wants?

Destined to unite the war-torn kingdoms of humans and Fae, Princess Sorcha must do her duty. But her heart has other ideas.

The road to Fae-lands is long, and her fae escort, Lord Conall, is handsome, dashing, and brave—all things a loyal knight should be. Yet no fae wants a human queen, and more war is on the horizon. Her betrothed, High King of the Fae, has secrets of his own, and she’s not sure that he’s her destiny. But her handsome knight and her heart will have to stand aside, for the princess has a duty—her people need this alliance. Until terrible secrets are exposed and the princess must choose between upholding her duty or following her dreams.

One mistake, one wrong choice and it's not just her heart that will suffer, it's her entire kingdom�

***
Tropes:
� arranged marriage
🥀 forbidden romance
� she falls for her guard
🥀 love triangle?
� fae and mythical creatures
🥀 curvy strong FMC
� adult characters
🥀 elemental magic
� cute side characters
🥀 cozy adjacent/classic fantasy feel
� plot twists and unreliable narrator

If you love fae stories, fated mates, and steam, you will not want to miss this high-fae Arthurian and Sleeping Beauty reimagining.

The Borderlands Princess is a steamy adult fantasy romance for fans of Sarah J. Maas, Sylvia Mercedes, and Raven Kennedy.

Please be advised:
In an effort to be transparent, this is intended for audiences eighteen years and older.

TRIGGER/CONTENT WARNINGS:

This book contains scenes that may depict, mention, or discuss animal death, assault, attempted murder, blood, bones, death, decapitation, fire/smoke, implied non-consent/sexual coercion, violence, and discussions of slavery and war. There are several adult scenes with sexually explicit material as well as explicit language.

This book also contains enthusiastic consent, positive body image language, nonbinary representation (a character with they/them pronouns), found family, healthy family systems, and older protagonists.]]> 336 Ophelia Wells Langley Has 0 to-read 3.34 The Borderlands Princess (Stone Circle #1)
author: Ophelia Wells Langley
name: Has
average rating: 3.34
book published:
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2023/08/01
shelves: to-read
review:

]]>