I devoured this novella that follows along the same timeline as Maid and the Orcs (one of my favorites of the series) so characters from that book andI devoured this novella that follows along the same timeline as Maid and the Orcs (one of my favorites of the series) so characters from that book and plot points will be present in the book so if spoilers are a concern read that one before. Tryggr and Eben are the MCs in this novella and they were such a sweet pair of characters on Orc Mountain.
Eben has focused his life helping out in the medical ward of the mountain preparing tonics and helping taking care of the various patients that come in from the different clans that all live on the mountain. But his life is missing something and he seeks out pleasure and pain but the relief he feels is always so temporary. It’s not until he crosses paths with Drafli, one of most fearsome Skai on the mountain and his mates that things take a different turn and brings him into contact with Tryggr.
I enjoyed reading the dynamic between these two characters. Eben is so unsure and uncertain and although Tryggr has a confidence and swagger about him, he also has this uncertainty where Eben is concerned. Seeing them dance around each other and their interactions even though others in the scullery can scent the truth was such an interesting read, I could not put this book down.
I loved the ending for these two especially Eben who has spent so much over the years trying to find his place on the mountain. He hasn’t always received the praise he rightfully deserves for his work and finally finding that support and someone looking out for him with Tryggr made me so happy for him. ...more
After reading Jackson and Oliver’s book, I was looking forward to seeing Jamie get his story. He’s come back to LA to help Oliver with the girls afterAfter reading Jackson and Oliver’s book, I was looking forward to seeing Jamie get his story. He’s come back to LA to help Oliver with the girls after having a disastrous time in NY with his ex and former research partner. He absolutely needed a HEA!
And he totally gets that with Craig, another player on the LA Storm team who has faced his own bad relationships. His ex, Leon, was horrible and made him feel less about himself. So understandably he’s reluctant to dive back into a relationship with someone, let alone someone who’s well versed in academics. There is such an intense introduction to these two MCs but I loved seeing these two take a step back and have a slow approach to getting to know one another. Both characters need to take that time to think about things before jumping into another relationship.
But things aren’t smooth skating for these two as things come back to test both of these characters. Thankfully things get resolved and it was nice seeing both characters have resolution and a HEA!...more
When a book starts off and one of the items to expect is the questionable use of a jack-o-lantern, color me intrigued. I’m in for a ride and I’m bucklWhen a book starts off and one of the items to expect is the questionable use of a jack-o-lantern, color me intrigued. I’m in for a ride and I’m buckling myself in for it. This is book three of the Goliaths of Wrestling series and one of my favorite series of this year. I love the author’s other works without question but this series is just the championship belt for me.
Dan and Rafe were just perfect! That annoying sunshine/grumpy neighbor duo was just such a great read. I want to gush about this book but don’t want to give anything away because there are definitely some surprises in this book that had me sitting with a wide-eyed face at some points. Dan’s antics inspire Rafe to question some things about himself. And in turn, spending more and more time with Rafe has Dan wondering some things about himself and seeing both characters have this dual discovery about themselves was a captivating read.
I can’t even get into the secondary characters that are in this book because that’s its own review. From the other wrestlers in the book to Rafe’s friends, just amazing all around (I think everyone needs a Neville in their life and I will not be taking any questions on that point).
No pun intended (well maybe a little) but heads up, do not attempt to read any place where crying laughing may be frowned upon. I’m still chuckling about the grocery store scenes and so many other parts of this book while trying to keep a straight face during my lunch hour! I cannot wait for Vince and Crossbody’s book. I can already feel the rivals to lovers vibes and I’m so looking forward to it. ...more
Micah’s story is finally here and I wasn’t prepared for how emotional this strong angel’s story would be. We’ve seen glimpses of him in prior books anMicah’s story is finally here and I wasn’t prepared for how emotional this strong angel’s story would be. We’ve seen glimpses of him in prior books and know of his connection and unrequited love for Dimitri but in this book we learn there is more to him than the grumpy angel who’s held a torch for his fellow Seraphim.
Despite those unreturned feelings and Dimitri eventually following his heart to his mates in his book, Micah still has always shown up for him at oftentimes a painful cost to him. But beyond that gruff and in control facade, that is the heart of who he is, showing up for those he feels responsible for including the members of his unit who are like family to him.
This enemies to fated mates story was a good start to this series and I loved that these two MCs got to know one another as they both had their doubts. Seeing Micah and Nox fall in love with one another outside of the pull of the fated mates bond was definitely a good read. I enjoyed the back and forth banter between the two of them.
The next book in the series is Ezekiel’s book and I have my guesses as to who his fated mate will be for that story. I am hoping I am correct and can’t wait to see how that one turns out. Great start to a series!...more
I’ve had a number of people highly recommend this series and after reading this, I completely understand why. My first time reading this author and noI’ve had a number of people highly recommend this series and after reading this, I completely understand why. My first time reading this author and now this series is on my list to go back and read. I was able to read this as a standalone without reading any prior books.
This was such an emotional read as both characters really go through it during this book and their shared history with one another and this town that doesn’t seem to be inclined to forgive and forget.
Aiden is a hot mess in so many ways although he’s good at his job at the ranch. The carefree attitude, going out of his way for people, flirts with everyone and at times seems to have no regard for his own well-being hides so much pain and hurt. And Seth also carries the painful burdens of his past along with the disdain of the town but he’s chosen to hole himself away at the his family ranch and become a recluse.
Seeing these two work through the demons of their past to get through the truth of who they are and what they mean for one another was such a journey. Someone told me that these characters loved hard and I cannot think of a better way to summarize the way these two characters feel for one another. This definitely is a story that will stay with me for some time and I am looking forward to reading the entire series. ...more
I was definitely looking forward to this best friends to lovers story for Brandon and Andrew in book 2 of the Seasons of Change of series. It’s one ofI was definitely looking forward to this best friends to lovers story for Brandon and Andrew in book 2 of the Seasons of Change of series. It’s one of my favorite tropes because I enjoy seeing the dynamic shift between the two characters and seeing that hint of attraction that has always been below the surface finally come to light.
Andrew and Brandon have been best friends in this friend group and their close bond has often caused a rift in Brandon’s relationships. The prologue introduces the reader to an event that happened several years ago that both characters don’t speak about but plays in the back of their minds often.
Brandon has had such a string of bad relationships that he is so afraid that this fragile relationship with Andrew won’t work. His reluctance to admit that this is more than it is or share with anyone else is frustrating at times and even I lost my patience with him a little so I can understand Andrew’s emotions. But I can sympathize with Brandon’s attempts for self-preservation after having his fair share of heartbreak.
I am looking forward to the new two seasons and getting a glimpse at the other characters in the series and hints at what potential storylines might be ahead is always a treat. ...more
First time reading this author and I'm hooked for the rest of this series. When reading an author for the first time, one of the things that makes me First time reading this author and I'm hooked for the rest of this series. When reading an author for the first time, one of the things that makes me take notice is when they give a really good intro. It doesn't have to spoil the book but if it alerts the reader that there are some things to take note before reading, that gives me a good feeling heading into the story. There are some things in this fictional universe that the author alerts particularly cheating as part of the story (not between the two MCs but affects the characters for a good portion of the book). Also the author gave a good heads up for Lemon's character. He is absolutely prickly and annoying in the beginning but I took the author at their word and held on until we got to the good part and it was worth the wait. I loved seeing his character develop over the course of the story from someone who has held themselves away from everyone as a way to protect themselves from getting hurt to someone who is a work in progress but learning to let people in. Hansley's struggle through the book was interesting as it never felt like a struggle regarding identity but with his decisions and how they affect those in his life. I am looking forward to more from this series! I read a complimentary copy and this is my honest and fair review. ...more
First I have to say for a debut novel, I think this was a great introduction to this author. This historical romance set in a coal mining town in WestFirst I have to say for a debut novel, I think this was a great introduction to this author. This historical romance set in a coal mining town in West Virginia felt like the author had taken their time to learn about the time period and background and it added to the experience of reading the story.
The pair of MCs that the story focuses on is a grumpy/sunshine pair of Floyd and Oliver. Floyd is the gruff coal miner who takes Ollie under his wing and finds himself utterly charmed by Ollie’s quirks. He’s in a marriage of appearance with his best friend, Effie and their daughter Josephine (some amazing secondary characters!). Oliver has come to town to escape his family but it’s a long distance from New York and completely different way of life for him.
I really enjoyed both of the MCs and seeing them slowly realize their attraction to one another was such a sweet read with many tender moments (pinkie holding, swoon!!!). Loved the HEA for the characters involved! In addition to the characters of Effie and Jo, I thought Aunt Betty was also a great part of the story being the support for Oliver when he needed it.
I received a free copy of this book via Indie Author Creative and am voluntarily leaving a review....more
This was another great addition to the series and I love traveling back to the Sweetwater Pack. It’s finally Dalton’s story with Larken as his fated mThis was another great addition to the series and I love traveling back to the Sweetwater Pack. It’s finally Dalton’s story with Larken as his fated mate. Dalton has held a crush on Axel for some time and in the previous book, I felt the sense that Axel’s new relationship was tough for Dalton to handle. Not just for the attraction aspect but for the loss of opportunity to have a family which he really craved.
I liked the friends first feel to their relationship as both Dalton and Larken find themselves in a friends with more arrangement after commiserating on their similar situations. It’s not until things progress and the ramifications of the beta sickness change things for both of these characters and they begin to realize how they really feel for one another and how to move forward. I love the HEA for these two characters and the found family part of the story that these two characters deserve.
I love the underlying story and so curious as to how this plays out in the final book. I’ve been reading this series since the first book came out so I have come to really enjoy these characters. This is absolutely a series you need to read in order even though some parts of the storyline overlap. I’m curious as to the final mate pairing and how that will affect the pack and what challenges it will bring. ...more
I’m always a sucker for a second chance romance. I think I like the idea that sometimes life gives you a redo with someone. That was one of the thingsI’m always a sucker for a second chance romance. I think I like the idea that sometimes life gives you a redo with someone. That was one of the things that interested me in this debut novel. It’s an emotional story that deals with some sensitive topics as depression and PTSD so check the content warnings before reading.
There is a good deal of buildup before the two MCs finally see one another. Jae has come to the seaside town that Dax introduced him to many years ago in hopes of finding himself after being injured in the military. Their relationship ended with lots of questions for him and you definitely get the sense that the move is motivated by the hope that maybe one day he will see Dax again.
Dax is a complex character and there is a lot to his journey throughout the book. His self-doubt in all of his relationships from his brother Tyler to Jae is heart-breaking to read. And I was glad to see the support he has from both of those characters through the course of the book. I’m looking forward to reading more from this author as I think Tyler and some of the other characters who I hope have stories have some interesting tales to tell.
I received a free copy of this book via Indie Author Creative and am voluntarily leaving a review....more
After reading book 1 from this writing duo, I couldn’t wait to get my hands on Colin and Owen’s story. Both seemed like interesting characters and I wAfter reading book 1 from this writing duo, I couldn’t wait to get my hands on Colin and Owen’s story. Both seemed like interesting characters and I was curious how Oliver’s twin and Isaac’s friend/roommate would mesh. I suggest checking out the content warnings before reading as there are discussions regarding mental illness as well an on page abuse scene (not between the two MCs).
Colin and Owen at the start of the book wouldn’t seem like the ideal pairing but after the end of this book, you realize that they are perfect for one another. Both characters have their own issues that they bring to the relationship and what starts into a fake marriage (always a fave of mine) turns into something more for both of these characters.
In learning to present a good front for their fake marriage, they learn to lean on one another while also gaining something from this arrangement. While Owen’s brother used to handle every single aspect of his life, Colin presents opportunities for Owen to take control of his life and be responsible for himself in some ways. And Colin eventually finds someone who chooses him and loves him after dealing with his toxic parental relationship while trying to shield his younger sister all these years.
I enjoyed seeing Oliver and Isaac again and loved the dynamic of all four characters especially the back and forth between Oliver and Colin. While Oliver still seems sorely vexed still by Colin’s presence, he understands how important he has become in Owen’s life and all the good things he seems to have brought out in him. Looking forward to see where this series goes from here!.
I received a free copy of this book via Indie Author Creative and am voluntarily leaving a review....more
I really enjoyed The Crimson Club series and couldn’t wait to read more of this universe from the author. This is book 1 of the spinoff series followiI really enjoyed The Crimson Club series and couldn’t wait to read more of this universe from the author. This is book 1 of the spinoff series following Jessie and the auto shop that where he works. And what a way to start the series with a little rivals/enemies to lovers story!
Sebastian and Jessie were such an awesome pair of MCs and I loved their dynamic from the very beginning of the story. They just kept going back and forth with one another and you could feel the tension in their exchanges. Their interactions with one another are spicy and those scenes are intense. But they begin to learn more about one another and seeing more behind the surface.
I’m definitely interested in seeing where the series goes from here. We were introduced to some characters in this book from Jessie’s garage that have potential for some good storylines and can’t wait to see what’s next....more
This dark romance anthology has so many great authors in one volume with proceeds going to a great cause. I’m working my way through the entire antholThis dark romance anthology has so many great authors in one volume with proceeds going to a great cause. I’m working my way through the entire anthology and have enjoyed what I’ve read so far!
Prey for Us Sinners - Jessie Walker This short story was just the right morsel to have me craving more of these two characters. Ophelia and Winifred are childhood best friends that have faced some dark twists and tragic turns and after not speaking for many years, have found themselves back in each other’s lives yet again. I’ve read dark romances from this author before but was not prepared for some of the surprises I found in this story. It kept me captivated until the final word and on the edge and I can only hope that I come across these two again.
Devil May Dare-Chani Lynn Feener I haven’t had a chance to read this author before and out of all the short stories, I was looking forward to this one the most. This was the perfect introduction to someone who hasn’t read the series before. I really enjoyed the characters and it has me excited to dive into the series and meet some of the characters mentioned in this story.
Warring Fixation - Lola Malone Definitely need to read more of Astor’s story! This tale is based in a fictional universe where different territories meet for an annual games. The political tension between the various houses is the underlying current that these academy aged characters can’t seem to avoid. There is a fair amount of world building for the universe and also hints at the backstory for one of the MCs. Looking to hopefully read more of this universe!...more
After reading the previous book, I was hoping Bryan and Tobias would get their HEA. Bryan experienced some traumatic events in the last book and book After reading the previous book, I was hoping Bryan and Tobias would get their HEA. Bryan experienced some traumatic events in the last book and book 3 picks up as Bryan hopes to run from these past events and hopefully find some sort of comfort from the dark places his mind is traveling.
While he’s dealing with all these chaotic emotions, he’s also leaving Tobias behind. Tobias has been waiting for his fated mate for years and finally finding him only to have him turn around and run away is difficult for him to cope with but he tries to be understanding given the circumstances.
I loved how understanding Tobias’ character is during this whole book. Bryan’s agency has been taken away from through the actions of others and I appreciate how despite his desire to be with his mate, his protectiveness of both Bryan’s person and emotional state is his most important concern.
I am curious about the introduction of Michael and Danny’s characters. Neither character is a supernatural being and being hunters puts them at odds with the supernatural community. And even though they seem to have a lot of knowledge of things, it feels like there is a lot for them to learn including about themselves. Can’t wait for this one!...more
If I could give this book more than 5 stars, I absolutely would. I don’t even have words for just how sweet these two characters are in this second inIf I could give this book more than 5 stars, I absolutely would. I don’t even have words for just how sweet these two characters are in this second installment in the Goliaths of Wresting series. After reading book 1, I couldn’t wait to get my hands on this one. Larkin seemed like quite the character in the first story and Seb was the perfect match for his character. This was such an enjoyable read so pardon any gushing in this review.
Larkin is Holt’s assistant and even though it seems like he’s more hassle than help sometimes, he’s a ray of sunshine and seems to somehow get the job done enough that he hasn’t been fired yet by Holt. He eyes all the wrestlers and flirts with all of them but is hiding something and talks a good game. He’s the complete opposite to Seb who is the quiet crossword puzzle bodyguard for Holt and has been secretly harboring a crush since Larkin first walked in the door. When Larkin approaches him with his idea, it’s more than Seb ever expected and he struggles with keeping his emotions in check and trying to keep this the causal experiment that Larkin is supposedly looking for.
Lily Mayne does a fantastic job at the rom-com genre and I think I read the entire book smiling. I giggled during the whole diner scene because Larkin’s parents are just gold, pure gold. Seeing these two realize their arrangement is becoming something more for both of them was so sweet and loved that they got their HEA.
I can’t wait for the next one and the set up for Rafe and Dan looks awesome. I am also praying to the gods of spandex and lycra that Corey gets a book!!...more
The fourth book in the Damned Connections series and finally Danny and Riley’s book. This book was different than the other books regarding timelines The fourth book in the Damned Connections series and finally Danny and Riley’s book. This book was different than the other books regarding timelines which was a nice change of pace. The prologue connects with the same timeline as the other three books but the balance of the book takes place several years ahead. I appreciated that as I wasn’t trying to remember and connect events.
These two characters have been the two of the entire group not interested in relationships or mates and we learn more behind the reasoning and the back story for both characters. Both Danny and Riley have their walls up for various reasons and their reluctance to deal with relationships is more understandable once you learn more about them.
Happy that these two finally sorted out their issues and got the HEA. It took me some time to warm up to Riley’s character and sometimes I questioned Danny’s actions and motives behind them. Definitely interested in learning more about Danny’s clan and the other characters that are introduced in this installment! ...more
Another fantastic installment in the Heartcraft Market series. After getting a glimpse of Marley’s sunshine personality, I was looking forward to him Another fantastic installment in the Heartcraft Market series. After getting a glimpse of Marley’s sunshine personality, I was looking forward to him getting his own story cause he was certainly a character that deserved one! This series is full of low-angst easy reading goodness and I always look forward to reading one of Duckie’s books.
Marley and Derek were such a wonderful couple to read. Marley has this amazing energy and draws people to him. Derek notices him at his sister’s wedding and can’t stop thinking about him. He’s been so involved in his career that anything personal has taken the back burner in his life and it was interesting to see a character who’s taken charge in other areas of his life fumble around in the romance department. Fortunately Marley is a sweet and understanding human being and doesn’t run for the hills at Derek’s initial interactions.
I loved seeing Derek’s character change over the course of the book and learn to let people in. Seeing him be an absolute mush for O’Malley was just the cat’s meow. I also appreciated the body positivity in this book. It’s refreshing to read about realistic characters in a romance story. HEAs are for everyone. It’s a slow burn but it definitely heats up for these two MCs.
It’s always fun to see characters from other stories pop up and loved seeing Harper’s cameo. I’m looking forward to Theo’s story and the next chapter at the market! ...more
I'm so sad to see this series end and I've really enjoyed getting to know all these characters. Davey and Mack were a wonderful read and loved the secI'm so sad to see this series end and I've really enjoyed getting to know all these characters. Davey and Mack were a wonderful read and loved the second chance aspect of the story. I enjoyed seeing cameos of the other members of the DMC and the found family aspect of the entire series. ...more
I know I might have mentioned it before but a friends to lovers is one of my absolute favorite tropes. Something about seeing that close and wonderfulI know I might have mentioned it before but a friends to lovers is one of my absolute favorite tropes. Something about seeing that close and wonderful friendship develop into something more as you get to know the characters is comforting in some way. The sly glances and meaningful looks and that realization moment just do it for me. This second installment of the Windsor Wyoming series is a low angst friends to lovers read with two easy going best friends.
Austin is a nighttime photographer (anyone else love learning about different professions while reading?) who has been coming to terms with his wife’s passing. Their brief but intense marriage has remained with him but he’s finally at a place where he feels like he can date again and his best friend and longtime crush is once again on his mind. Meanwhile Cal has kept his feelings for Austin under wraps and has been a constant support for him. Austin makes it clear that he wants their friendship to take the next step and leaves Cal at a difficult spot.
It’s a little bit of a slow burn story as it takes time for these two MCs to come to terms with their feelings and work through what it all means for their friendship. I feel for Cal’s character and how he wrestles with the unknown. Does he take the plunge and reach for something he’s wanted for such a long time or leave things as is and not risk losing one of the most important people in his whole life if it doesn’t work out.
I enjoyed seeing how things work out for these two MCs and their HEA was well deserved. I’m curious as to where the series will go from here as I think something is brewing between some characters and I wonder how that will play out!...more
Hold onto your hats cause the angst in this story is coming at you full force. When We Meet Again is a story that spans years between the two MCs and Hold onto your hats cause the angst in this story is coming at you full force. When We Meet Again is a story that spans years between the two MCs and is full of missed moments and lots of pining.
When we first meet the two MCs they are just at the brink of adulthood. It’s one of those moments you see in the movies, vacationing in a different country and meeting someone you instantly connect with. That moment stays with both characters for quite some time. Chance keeps bringing these characters again and they are at a different part of their life. Once again, that connection is felt but one character feels a sense of duty and obligation and it slips through their hands again.
Each time these characters meet and connect, their attraction is palpable and you can sense the spark between them. And every time they part, I had this feeling wondering if they would ever get their chance. It was more than will they/wont they-it was do or don’t cause I don’t know how much more angst my romantic heart can take!
I was so glad to see these characters finally get their absolutely well earned and well deserved happily ever after. I will say I was waiting for the other shoe to drop the whole way but breathed a sigh of relief at the end!...more
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