I enjoyed King of Wrath. Two warring gangster families, a little blackmail, an arranged marriage, and tons of enemies turned 3.5 stars
Audiobook review
I enjoyed King of Wrath. Two warring gangster families, a little blackmail, an arranged marriage, and tons of enemies turned lovers chemistry. What’s not to like?
The plot is somewhat formulaic, but I can forgive that because few things please me more than when an alpha male is forced to gravel to get back in their woman’s good graces. Dante screws up big time with Vivian, and I loved all the hoops he has to jump through to win her back.
Now, about the audiobook. I do love me some Jacob Morgan. I could seriously listen to him read tax penalty codes all day and not grow tired of his voice. But—and I truly hate to say it—his narration of this audiobook is weak. His emotional delivery is great, but Dante is supposed to at least have a faint Italian accent. Morgan’s accent is neither convincing or consistent. Towards the end of the book, he gives up even trying and goes full-on American. I liked Emily Woo Zeller. Her voice conveys Vivian’s grace and strength. If it weren’t for the accent distraction, I would have enjoyed the audiobook more.
Recommended for fans of: Arranged marriage Mafia romance Jewelry Alpha males groveling
Bless you, Marni Mann! The addictive Dalton Brothers series now includes the extended Dalton family. Hannah, the Dalton brothers’ cousin, cha4.5 stars
Bless you, Marni Mann! The addictive Dalton Brothers series now includes the extended Dalton family. Hannah, the Dalton brothers’ cousin, charmed me in The Single Dad, and I was curious about her antagonistic relationship with her boss. The Intern breaks it all down in an engaging way, with a hefty dose of Mann’s signature sizzling heat.
When Declan, the top litigator in the state, mentors Hannah’s law class, sparks begin to fly. I liked the fact that it isn’t her beauty that makes her stand out. It’s Hannah’s poise, confidence, and competence in the mock trial that really capture his attention. He has no clue she’s a Dalton
After their one-night stand, Declan is shocked to discover Hannah is a Dalton—a family of successful lawyers and owners of a prestigious law firm. Furthermore, both are surprised when she gets assigned to be his intern. He does everything in his power to get her reassigned, including being abrasive and basically a jerk.
I appreciated just how smart and driven Hannah is. She might be attracted to Declan, but she doesn’t let the fog of lust derail her goals or impact her ability to be a stellar intern. Speaking of attraction—Holy Mother of Hotness! Declan is one dirty-talking alpha male. He and Hannah burn up the sheets—and the alley, and boardroom, office, and… You get the picture. Their chemistry is off the charts.
I thoroughly enjoyed The Intern, and it looks like Hannah’s twin brother will be getting his own book next. I’ve already added The Bachelor to my To Be Read lit!
Recommended for fans of: Enemies to lovers Office romance Age gap Lawyers
I had an itch for a planned pregnancy romance, and The Rake scratched it quite nicely.
Belle has fertility issues that make it necessary for her to getI had an itch for a planned pregnancy romance, and The Rake scratched it quite nicely.
Belle has fertility issues that make it necessary for her to get pregnant as soon as possible if she ever wants to have a child.The problem is that she is allergic to relationships, and she is also financially unstable. Enter Devon Whitehall, a wealthy Marquis. He is a well-known womanizer for whom marriage or even relationships are out of the question. However, he is interested in producing an heir to pass on his royal title. It’s a match made in Heaven.
Belle has a deep distrust of men that goes back to some pivotal events in her teenage years. She works overtime to push men away and squash the possibility of any romantic feelings. Despite her hostile behavior, Devon is enchanted by her. On the one hand, I really felt for Belle and understood the reason for her volatility. On the other hand, I kept wondering why Devon was so attracted to her when she treated him poorly. It is difficult to sympathize with her at times. Even so, I enjoyed the magnetic attraction between Devon and Belle and rooted for them to be a real couple.
Devon’s relationship with his dysfunctional royal family is like a juicy soap opera that I wanted to enjoy with a bowl of popcorn. Some developments towards the end seem rushed and haphazardly thrown together, but all’s well that ends well.
I liked the dangerous mystery element. It creates a little extra excitement. I admit I didn’t understand how Belle could treat the health and safety of her and her baby so cavalierly when her pregnancy was high risk though.
The audiobook is wonderful, with Joe Arden and Maxine Mitchell turning in fantastic performances—with British accents no less. Arden is particularly emotional in his portrayal of Devon. I highly recommend it.
Recommended for fans of: Planned pregnancies British aristocracy Mystery
Drama King gets the award for Most Entertaining Meet Cute and Most Cuddly Main Character. It’s an all-around fun story, especially for lovers of slow Drama King gets the award for Most Entertaining Meet Cute and Most Cuddly Main Character. It’s an all-around fun story, especially for lovers of slow burn romance.
I find something really satisfying about a bodyguard falling in love with the person they are dedicated to protecting. In this case, Beth is the bodyguard assigned to guarding hunky movie star Cyrus. It seems impossible that they could ever work as a couple because they are total opposites.
Rather than being a Hollywood diva, Cyrus is a puppy dog—so stinking sweet and fun. He lives impulsively in the moment, without regard for any future consequences. Beth, on the other hand, is ultra professional and serious. She is always thinking about possible repercussions of her actions. I admired how exceptional she is at her job and her secretly thoughtful actions.
Their chemistry is fantastic, and the slow simmering romance just about killed me! Cyrus had me in the palm of his hand, and I couldn’t wait for him to finally win over Beth. The Christmas Eve snowstorm had me leaping for joy like 12 lords. It’s a rom com lover’s fantasy come true.
Drama King is a delectable story that kept me in my happy place from beginning to end.
Recommended for fans of: Bodyguard stories Hollywood Office romance Being stranded in a snowstorm
*I received an early copy. This does not affect my opinions.*
This is a nice story that would have been even better with more exploration of the characters. I was also in the mood for a holiday read and,3.5 stars
This is a nice story that would have been even better with more exploration of the characters. I was also in the mood for a holiday read and, despite the title and cover, there's nothing really Christmas-y about the story.
I listened to the audiobook and enjoyed both narrators.
Be Your Everything is the second book in the series about the tight-knit D’Angelo family. This book is about Chloe, the “little” sister to two overproBe Your Everything is the second book in the series about the tight-knit D’Angelo family. This book is about Chloe, the “little” sister to two overprotective brothers. It’s a brother’s best friend story, and even though I really liked the first book, I appreciated the lighter tone of this one.
Chloe has always had a crush on Dante. He has a well-earned reputation as a ladies man, but nobody believes he has changed his ways. Dante’s best friend is Chloe’s older brother, and Chloe is absolutely off limits. Bro code is broken big time when a bachelor/bachelorette trip to Vegas ends with Dante and Chloe drunkenly saying, “I do.” Do they chalk it up to a mistake, or do they try to commit to a real marriage?
Dante goes all in once he stops fighting attraction to Chloe, and he won my heart because of it. Chloe takes a little longer to stand up to her big Italian family, who have very firm opinions about how she should live her life. They are well-meaning but their meddlesome nature seems extreme for a woman Chloe’s age. Fortunately, her sister-in-law, Brooke, is back to bring some welcome reasoning to the hot-tempered brothers. Chloe’s best friend is entertaining. I wish I had a ride or die friend like her.
Be Your Everything is a sweet forbidden romance with just a little heat. It’s an enjoyable addition to the series.
Recommended for fans of: Brothers best friend tropes Forbidden romance Italian families Yoga
*I received an early copy. This does not affect my opinions.*
What the heck did I just read? Each chapter of The Housemaid is more bonkers than the one before! I was quickly pulled in by the characters a4.5 stars
What the heck did I just read? Each chapter of The Housemaid is more bonkers than the one before! I was quickly pulled in by the characters and became addicted to the insanity.
There is a whole lot to process in this story. You have a wealthy family that includes a long-suffering husband, his unstable socialite wife, and their spoiled little girl. You’ve also got a poor but savvy woman with a mysterious past, who is delighted at landing a job as their live-in maid. If that’s not intriguing enough, there’s a creepy attic bedroom and gaslighting galore.
The explanations towards the end are clumsy and leave some holes, but I was an eager passenger on this twisted roller coaster ride.
Recommended for fans of: Thrillers Mysteries Page-turners
Gobble, gobble, gobble. That’s the sound of me eating up Nora Goes Off Script. I loved everything about this feel-good romance.
Don’t you just admire aGobble, gobble, gobble. That’s the sound of me eating up Nora Goes Off Script. I loved everything about this feel-good romance.
Don’t you just admire a woman who is underestimated? Nora’s ex-husband has always belittled her job as a romance writer for a Hallmark-style TV channel, despite the fact that her career has supported her family—if only barely. In a departure from her typical stories, her latest screenplay—based on the breakdown of her marriage—is a huge success and has been turned into a major motion picture. After the movie crew finishes filming at her house, movie star Leo Vance asks to stay on and rent Nora’s tea house for a few weeks. Nora—now a single mother with a deadbeat ex—is in need of money, so she agrees.
The way Leo marvels at Nora’s ordinary, day-to-day life, is adorable and fun. Nora’s life is rigidly routine, and it’s sweet the way Leo softens her tough edges. Through Leo’s eyes, we see that normal is underrated, and Nora is able to see that fun isn’t a bad thing.
The romance between Nora and Leo is heartwarming. Nora’s kids are so lovable, and I enjoyed how quickly Leo becomes an integral part of all their lives.
Nora Goes Off Script is a funny and satisfying story that is sure to brighten your day.
Recommended for fans of: Single parent romance Hollywood stars Sunrises
A Little Too Close is one of those rare books that has conflict without an antagonist. Even without a “bad guy” I stayed interested in the struggles oA Little Too Close is one of those rare books that has conflict without an antagonist. Even without a “bad guy” I stayed interested in the struggles of the main character throughout, and I found this to be an exceptionally enjoyable story.
We met Reed Madigan in A Little Too Late. Weston Madigan is the middle child of the three Weston brothers. He has a boulder-sized chip on his shoulder due to childhood trauma, and has spent his entire adult life in the Air Force as a helicopter pilot, deliberately avoiding home. When he is needed to help with the family business, a boutique ski resort, he reluctantly returns home to Madigan Mountain.
I’m a sucker for single moms, and it didn’t take long for me to grow attached to Callie. Her dedication to her 11-year-old daughter warmed my heart. Sutton is a scene stealer with her fearless, bold nature and admirable negotiating skills.
Weston integrates himself into Callie and Sutton’s life so easily that he barely notices they’ve essentially become a family. It was so sweet. Of course, I loved the chemistry between Callie and Weston and appreciated the slow build. Callie’s ability to understand Weston and love him without trying to change him is beautiful.
I liked the realistic way Weston deals with his animosity towards his dad and older brother. Lifelong grudges can’t be fixed overnight, and sometimes happily ever after isn’t a reasonable expectation.
Once again, Madigan Mountain offers scenic vistas, breathtaking aerial views, and breath-stealing downhill skiing. A Little Too Close was a warm, cozy read. I’m excited to return to the mountain and learn about the youngest Madigan brother, Crew, in A Little Too Wild.
Recommended for fans of: Pilots Single parents Family drama Skiing
*I received an early copy. This does not affect the content of my review.*
Talk about a dazzling mystery. The Lies I Tell kept me on the edge of my seat, questioning what I believed to be true.
Some painful experiences, Meg beTalk about a dazzling mystery. The Lies I Tell kept me on the edge of my seat, questioning what I believed to be true.
Some painful experiences, Meg becomes a con artist at a young age. Throughout a decade she hones her skills as an expert at deception, constantly changing identities and grifting people. Is it due to necessity or part of her nature? I was sure she was a cold manipulator initially, but my opinions kept changing throughout.
Kat is a reporter who has tracked Meg’s schemes for years and is determined to write an exposé on her—both for professional gain and for personal reasons. To do so, she must become part of Meg’s inner circle and earn her trust.
It’s fascinating to get both women’s points of view. I marveled at Meg’s sleight of hand and her intelligence. Kat’s determination is admirable, but things get really interesting when lines get blurred.
The Lies I Tell is full of intriguing characters and unpredictable events. It’s one of the most absorbing mysteries I’ve read this year.
There’s something wonderful about small town romances. I’m always comforted by a supportive community where everyone knows each other and pit4.5 stars
There’s something wonderful about small town romances. I’m always comforted by a supportive community where everyone knows each other and pitches in to help those in need, and I look forward to meeting the quirky residents. Runaway Groomsman has all that, plus heartfelt vibes and a slow build, wholesome love story.
Sawyer was a construction worker before making it big as a romance screenwriter. When he causes a scandal at his ex-girlfriend and best friend’s wedding, he escapes the spotlight and winds up in Canoodle. There, Sawyer meets Fallon, an overwhelmed, exhausted, and broke caregiver who runs her family’s dilapidated rental cabins. Despite getting off on the wrong foot and having to overcome some big obstacles, they begin a simmering friendship that is destined to be more.
You know what’s sexy? A man who is good with his hands. I’m talking about someone who really knows his way around a tool belt. Seriously. Perhaps it’s the long-time married woman in me speaking, but a man who is handy and fixes things without being asked to do so is h-o-t. It’s sad when real life crosses into my romantic fantasies, but I digress.
I was moved by Sawyer’s close relationship with Fallon’s grandfather and by how much Sawyer respects Fallon. I loved the two of them together. I didn’t care for Fallon’s best friend. She’s too much of a one-note caricature. I liked Sawyer’s brother, though. He’s a hoot.
If you think you’re going to get Meghan Quinn’s usual spicy fare, think again. I kept waiting for the juicy stuff, but it never came. Ultimately, I found that I didn’t miss it because I was so entertained by the story. The epilogue is delightful.
Recommended for fans of: Small town romance Hollywood HGTV Pastries
*I received an early copy. This does not affect the content of my review.*
Someone, please book me a trip to Madigan Mountain, STAT! I don’t even ski, but A Little Too Late has me envisioning a vacation on a snowy mountain skSomeone, please book me a trip to Madigan Mountain, STAT! I don’t even ski, but A Little Too Late has me envisioning a vacation on a snowy mountain ski resort, snowboarding down the bunny slope, a big mug of hot chocolate with marshmallows cupped in my hands, and a soak in a glorious hot tub at the end of the day. I feel like I became part of Madigan Mountain, and I’m homesick now.
I was charmed by Reed Madigan and Ava Aicher’s romance, but it may not be for you. Absolutely do not read A Little Too Late if you think you’ll dislike:
A sweet but passionate college romance A scorned woman with a wicked grudge, 10 years in the making A second chance romance Banter A boutique ski resort Shady business dealings Challenging family dynamics
There is so much to love about this book, which kicks off the Madigan Mountain series in a very successful fashion. I’m excited to continue the story with the other Madigan brothers.
Recommended for fans of: Skiing Second chance romance Racoons Wheeling and dealing
*I received an early copy. This does not affect the content of my review.*
As someone who listens to audiobooks regularly, I was in heaven listening to Thank You For Listening. I mean, does it get any better tAudiobook review
As someone who listens to audiobooks regularly, I was in heaven listening to Thank You For Listening. I mean, does it get any better than an audiobook about an audio narrator who falls for her co-narrator sight unseen? The only thing that can top that is if the book was written and narrated by one of my favorite narrators, Julia Whelan. Mission accomplished!
The banter between Sewanee Chester and Brock McNight is sublime, but I also enjoyed Sewanee’s humorous and emotional relationship with her eccentric grandmother. The story is more contemporary fiction than romance. Even though there are romantic aspects, the emphasis is on Sewanee embracing her life following tragedy and in the face of challenges.
Who better than Julia Whelan to give a behind the scenes peek into the nuts and bolts of the audiobook industry? The creation of romance audiobooks was particularly fascinating to me. Of course Whelan nails the narration. It is well worth the listen.
Recommended for fans of: Romance audiobooks Pseudonyms Quirky grandmothers
Reverse is the follow-up to Kate Stewart’s massive hit Drive, so it has big shoes to fill. I’m happy to say it fits quite nicely. I highly recommend rReverse is the follow-up to Kate Stewart’s massive hit Drive, so it has big shoes to fill. I’m happy to say it fits quite nicely. I highly recommend reading Drive before reading Reverse. The story will have far more meaning if you do, and you’ll avoid major spoilers. Reverse is about the forbidden romance between the children of the main characters from the previous book.
Hands down, the highlight of the story for me is Easton. The reluctant rockstar has a humble, tender heart and a reputation for being evasive with the press. He’s a musical genius who is passionate about his music above all else—until Natalie. I fell in love with the way he loves Natalie: bravely and wholeheartedly. I also enjoyed his easy relationship with his parents.
Tenacity is Natalie’s middle name. She has it in spades in terms of her career as a reporter and in her desire to learn the full truth about her parents’ past. Her bond with her dad truly tugged on my heartstrings. He comes first for her, and even though I know they’re just fictional characters, I resented Natalie for not making Easton more of a priority.
While Easton and Natalie’s romance progresses quickly, I believed in their love story because they invest every moment getting to know and understand each other. Their chemistry is intense.
There’s bickering and some on-again off-again dynamics that I could have done without. From time to time the characters’ actions just seem like unnecessary drama, and they left me feeling confused and tired.
I loved following the Reverse Spotify playlist chapter by chapter, especially since music is so integral to the plot. The songs are so well thought out and really enhance the story.
Fans of Drive will undoubtedly enjoy seeing the next generation fall in love. It was so nice catching up with Stella, Nate, and Reid. They’ve grown even more wonderful with age, and I loved living in their world for a little longer.
Recommended for fans of: Rockstar romance Star crossed love Exes
*I received an early copy. This does not affect my opinions.*
I rarely read YA, but I Kissed Shara Wheeler has a premise I couldn’t pass up. Mystery, an elaborate scavenger hunt, and identity crises galo3.5 stars
I rarely read YA, but I Kissed Shara Wheeler has a premise I couldn’t pass up. Mystery, an elaborate scavenger hunt, and identity crises galore.
I’m always intrigued by the dynamics of the high school cliques in YA novels—the jocks, the popular kids, the brainiacs, the theatre kids, the geeks, and the queer teens. An entertaining portrait of each is painted. They are on the cusp of adulthood, still trying to figure out who they are as individuals while living in a town that demands conformity.
Chloe Green stands out for being a smart, openly gay rule-breaker in a conservative Christian high school. Her biting sarcasm, self-confidence, and defiance make her a memorable character. I loved the fact that Chloe, Smith, and Rory don’t fit neatly into any one box. Their quest to find Shara Wheeler by following her clues initially drew me in, but the search drags on, and I could clearly see where the plot was heading. The longer the story went on, the less I enjoyed it. I put this book down so many times that It took me three full weeks to finish.
I welcomed the affirmation that diversity is beautiful. The sentiment is somewhat muted by the fact that most of the characters unrealistically share a major attribute. Parts of the book are reminiscent of those iconic 1980s John Hughes films, though, which I grew up loving. The Breakfast Club, anyone? The ending is particularly fun.
Queer youth deserve to see themselves represented on the page, so there is great value in this story, despite its flaws. The book takes pains to depict well-rounded characters. I especially appreciated the way non-binary people are explained. The message that differences should be embraced is a valuable one.
Recommended for fans of: LGBTQ+ stories Young Adult High school coming of age stories Scavenger hunts
Will I ever tire of Sarina Bowen’s professional hockey novels? Evidently the answer to that question is no—and I don’t even like hockey. Love LessonsWill I ever tire of Sarina Bowen’s professional hockey novels? Evidently the answer to that question is no—and I don’t even like hockey. Love Lessons is another welcome addition to the Brooklyn Bruisers series.
So often in the “hero needs a PR makeover” trope, the main character is a pathetic hot mess—boozing, womanizing, and brawling. Ian Crickey, on the other hand, is a truly decent, humble guy. He’s just dealing with a couple of unfortunate recent incidents in the public eye. The story does a good job highlighting his vulnerable side.
Ian and Vera are polar opposites. He wears threadbare t-shirts and thinks shopping is a joke, while she makes a living as a stylist. I loved her fashionista’s point of view and the positive effect her passion has on those around her. Ian exudes confidence in the bedroom, but Vera has some serious self-esteem issues. His patience and sensitivity in helping her overcome them is wonderful. When they’re not in the bedroom they are arguing, but it’s all in good fun. They just click.
One of the perks of reading this series is that couples from other books are never forgotten. It was nice to be reunited with Ian’s teammates and their partners. Much of the book takes place during a group trip to Italy, and I lived vicariously through their luxurious Italian vacation. Molto bene!
The audiobook is narrated by Joe Arden and Rose Dioro. As usual, they bring humor and warmth to their depictions.
Recommended for fans of: Sports romance Fashion Italy
*I received an early copy of the audiobook. This does not affect the content of my review.*
Angela (Reading Frenzy Book Blog)
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