As a fan of both The Wallflowers Series and The Ravenels Series by Lisa Kleypas, I was thrilled to be getting a crossover novel between the two seriesAs a fan of both The Wallflowers Series and The Ravenels Series by Lisa Kleypas, I was thrilled to be getting a crossover novel between the two series (or another, I should say). Particular if it meant the heroine would be the daughter of my favorite Wallflowers couple AND the hero would be someone who鈥檚 story I鈥檝e been eagerly anticipating since his introduction. And once again, Lisa Kleypas doesn't disappoint, delivering a romantic, swoon-worthy, sensual love story with Devil's Daughter.
Infamous for his wildly untamable, roguish behavior, West Ravenel is accustomed to being judged for his past indiscretions. His frank manor of speaking and incorrigible flirtatiousness is scandalous to someone like his new house guest, Lady Phoebe Clare. Little does he know that her disapproval stems more from his boorish treatment of her late husband. As the childhood tormentor of the man she loved and lost, Phoebe is determined to dislike West, but the combination of his endearing self-deprecation, his zest for life, and his irresistible allure charm her despite her best efforts to resist his attentions. She's overwhelmed by the way he ignites her temper, provokes her emotions, and stirs her passion, breathing life into her monotonous existence.
Just as with every book I've read by Lisa Kleypas, Devil's Daughter is a beautifully written, painstakingly detailed novel with characters that are thoroughly fleshed out and a storyline that's riveting from start to finish. Her writing is poetic, transporting readers into the past with such vivid imagery that engaged my imagination. The romance between West and Phoebe is wistful, intense, and all-consuming. Their journey tugged on my heartstrings and ensured I was emotionally invested in every single page.I devoured every word and finished the book satisfied, but wanting more. All in all, Devil's Daughter is another must-read novel in the Ravenels Series.
*complimentary copy provided by publisher for an honest review
When a book starts off with the heroine getting dumped and subsequently getting comforted by a handsome, shirtless firefighter, you know you鈥檙e in forWhen a book starts off with the heroine getting dumped and subsequently getting comforted by a handsome, shirtless firefighter, you know you鈥檙e in for a good story. Especially when the heroine and said firefighter become good friends who are (secretly) attracted to each other. Throw in a proposition that includes exploring the heroine鈥檚 naughtiest fantasies and you have an addictive page-turner. I was hooked from the very first page of Best Laid Plans by Lauren Blakely, became enamored with protagonists, Gabe Harrison and Arden East, over a tearful picnic of cheese and crackers, and fell deeper in love with these characters with every chapter.
Can I just say that friends-to-lovers is my FAVORITE trope? There鈥檚 always that will they/won鈥檛 they aspect between a couple. Will they act on their attraction? Will they admit their feelings for each other? Will they risk their friendship for something more??? I especially love when Lauren Blakely writes a friends-to-lovers romance because her signature whip-smart, flirtatious banter is interspersed with inside jokes and a playful, effortless rapport. There鈥檚 also trust already established between them, which is how Arden feels comfortable enough to enlist her friend, Gabe, in exploring her sexuality in Best Laid Plans. She鈥檚 determined to shed her sugary sweet, nice-girl persona (at least in the bedroom) and who better to help than her more experienced friend?
Bold, adventurous, uninhibited, and passionate are words that aptly describe both the storyline and the two main characters in Best Laid Plans. Desires are explored and lines are crossed in a tantalizingly slow-burning romance that鈥檚 the perfect balance of sweet and sensual. Gabe and Arden brought vitality to each page with their laughter, with their enthusiasm, and with their open-mindedness. I found Arden鈥檚 unabashed curiosity to be refreshing and endearing and I loved Gabe鈥檚 nonjudgmental, laidback approach to life. The fun-loving energy and the electric chemistry that they generate between them are what make the story such an entertaining, compelling read.
If you鈥檙e a fan of friends-to-lovers romances, read Best Laid Plans. If you like your romances lighthearted and with minimal angst, this is the book for you. Or, if you鈥檙e in the mood for a swoon-worthy, feel-good romance, Lauren Blakely has got you covered.
*complimentary copy provided by author for an honest review
After reading and loving The Chase by Elle Kennedy, I was dying to read the next book in the Briar U Series, especially after learning it would be BreAfter reading and loving The Chase by Elle Kennedy, I was dying to read the next book in the Briar U Series, especially after learning it would be Brenna鈥檚 book. I want to go on record saying that I knew who her love interest would be from the very moment he was introduced in The Chase. Who else would be paired with the coach鈥檚 daughter from Briar University other than the team captain of their rival, Harvard? The sparks that flew between Brenna Jensen and Jake Connelly when they exchanged angry barbs made for an intriguing prospective pairing, but talk about a forbidden romance! Their potential romance promised to be nothing short of explosive and I, for one, couldn鈥檛 wait to dive in.
Part enemies-to-lovers, and part fake relationship romance, The Risk follows Brenna and Jake as they navigate the pressures of life and love, all while still attending school. With his stellar record on the ice and a single-minded dedication, Jake's future as a professional hockey player has already been decided, while Brenna is tirelessly working toward her dream job in sports broadcast journalism. It's when Brenna struggles to be taken seriously as a female in a male-dominated profession that she shamelessly uses her nemesis to get a leg up. Brenna might be using Jake but he鈥檚 all too willing participant, especially when it means scoring some 鈥渞eal鈥 dates as part of their 鈥渇ake鈥 relationship arrangement.
With crackling sexual tension, snarky banter, and chemistry to spare, the pairing of Briar University's resident bad girl and Harvard's playboy hockey captain is fun, steamy, and endlessly entertaining. Jake's cool, effortless confidence is the perfect complement to Brenna's daring, brazen persona, with each teasing, taunting, and challenging the other with every breath. Their love/hate, push/pull dichotomy gives each page an electric, provocative feel that had me eager for their every interaction.
After reading The Risk, I was reminded why I love NA novels and why Elle Kennedy is particularly adept at creating riveting, brilliantly-written stories in this genre. The Risk employs lighthearted humor while tackling serious subject matters, never letting the age of the characters dictate what should or shouldn't be included in the narrative. The Risk is bold. It's sexy. It's dramatic. It's completely impossible to put down once you get started. The Risk is another must-read installment in Elle Kennedy's Briar U Series and I'm beyond excited for what's coming next.
*complimentary copy provided by author for an honest review
After the cliffhanger at the end of Motion by Penny Reid, I was dying to see what would happen next with Mona and Abram鈥檚 story! With Mona鈥檚 twin sistAfter the cliffhanger at the end of Motion by Penny Reid, I was dying to see what would happen next with Mona and Abram鈥檚 story! With Mona鈥檚 twin sister coming home, what did that mean for Mona鈥檚 budding romance??? Would Mona鈥檚 secret be revealed? I needed answers! I knew Space, the follow-up to Motion, would provide some clarity but, with another cliffhanger looming, I was both excited and anxious to see what else Penny Reid had in store for these characters.
There鈥檚 not much I can say about Space without giving everything away. In short, Mona and Abram come face to face for the first time after their unforgettable week together when Mona posed as her twin sister, Lisa. The truth is out, there are unresolved feelings between Mona and Abram, and they have one week to resolve any lingering issues. To say that Space is an emotional roller coaster would be an understatement especially because, unlike Motion, Space is alternates between Mona and Abram鈥檚 perspectives. We get double the gut-wrenching angst, double the emotional baggage, and an abundance of conflicting thoughts and feelings.
Going into Space, I don鈥檛 know quite what I expected but I wasn鈥檛 entirely prepared for the pain and anguish coming from Abram. Gone was the poetic, romantic aspiring musician and in his place was a bitter, hurt man who did little to hide the anger roiling around inside of him. Similarly, Mona wasn鈥檛 the mild-mannered, apathetic person who kept everything bottled up, but instead lets her confusion and longing seep in to every word she utters. The combination of Abram and Mona鈥檚 emotional turbulence evoked a visceral reaction in me, making me a nervous wreck from start to finish. My brows furrowed, my stomach churned, and my throat clogged up.
Have I mentioned I don鈥檛 do well with angst? And Space damn near ripped my heart out. These characters frustrated me. They made me scowl and cringe and seethe. They made me laugh and smile. They moved me. They gave me hope. They drove me crazy and kept me on the proverbial edge of my seat. Space is one of those books that you stay up reading until the early hours of the morning because it鈥檚 impossible to stop. I devoured every word, riveted to the story, needing to see what happened next. Once I was finished, I was even more impatient for the conclusion to Mona and Abram鈥檚 story and I know I鈥檒l be counting down the days until the release of Time.
*complimentary copy provided by author for an honest review
There aren鈥檛 many authors who could get me to willingly read a book with a cliffhanger. It鈥檚 my undying love for Penny Reid鈥檚 books plus a relatively There aren鈥檛 many authors who could get me to willingly read a book with a cliffhanger. It鈥檚 my undying love for Penny Reid鈥檚 books plus a relatively short wait time between books that had me starting the author鈥檚 new serial, Laws of Physics, before it鈥檚 complete. And after diving in to Motion, all I can say is...what was I thinking??? I have to wait a MONTH to find out what happens next?! I need more! Like yesterday. *sobs* But I鈥檓 getting way ahead of myself...
After her estranged twin sister, Lisa, is arrested and threatened with being cut off from their wealthy parents, our protagonist, Mona is roped into assuming her twin鈥檚 identity while she鈥檚 otherwise disposed. Her objective is to return home and remain out of trouble for one week, under the supervision of her brother鈥檚 best friend, Abram 鈥 a task that鈥檚 complicated by the fact that Mona is the complete opposite of her rebellious, superficial-minded twin. Calm, clinical, and matter-of-fact, including when it comes to the opposite sex, Mona isn鈥檛 sure what to make of the handsome, laidback musician who has a rocky history with Lisa, especially when a spark of attraction between them threatens to expose Mona鈥檚 deception.
With Mona as the protagonist, Motion is a complex, thought-provoking story that鈥檚 part coming-of-age, part romance. She鈥檚 an endearingly awkward, intellectually superior heroine who can navigate her professional field among peers twice her age, yet she鈥檚 also incredibly naive in many ways. Everything from attempting to balance her twin sister鈥檚 blas茅 persona with her quick-witted, curious nature to navigating her unexpected feelings for a guy who teases and challenges her is explored through this scientific, emotionally stunted lens. Mona is a character who is flawed, stuck in a predicament that has the potential to end badly for her. And this is just the start of her journey.
With quirky, multilayered characters, dialogue that鈥檚 witty and humorous, and a storyline that鈥檚 intelligent, well-researched and thoroughly captivating, Motion is everything I鈥檝e come to expect from a Penny Reid book. Motion captured my complete attention from the very start and kept both my mind and emotions engaged with every page. This book is a brilliant start to a new series and, after that cliffhanger ending, I鈥檓 impatiently waiting to get my hands on the next installment. *complimentary copy provided by author for an honest review
Do you know what I love about Lauren Blakely鈥檚 books? Even though they鈥檙e standalones, they鈥檙e typically connected to each other in some way. When minDo you know what I love about Lauren Blakely鈥檚 books? Even though they鈥檙e standalones, they鈥檙e typically connected to each other in some way. When minor characters are important to the hero or heroine, you know they鈥檙e more than likely to appear in their own story...or at least you (i.e. me) hope they will. That鈥檚 why, when I read Best Laid Plans and came to know Arden鈥檚 two best friends, I was eager to see who one or both would be paired up with. Thankfully, Lauren Blakely didn鈥檛 prolong the suspense, introducing not just two new heroines but two new heroes as well! And when a certain cop pulled over a speeding motorcyclist? Sparks flew, my smile stretched across my face, and my mind whirled with the potential romance.
When I started The Feel Good Factor, it took approximately 0.5 seconds before I fell in love with Derek McBride. He鈥檚 tatted up, rides a motorcycle, and is a wicked flirt to boot. Need I say more? He looks the part of the quintessential bad boy, which is what captures the attention of sassy, quick-witted police officer, Perri Keating. From their very first meeting, you could feel their attraction to each other emanating from the pages. The sexual tension between them is a palpable force, and their chemistry is almost indecent to the point where it feels like, at any moment, they鈥檙e in danger of ripping each other鈥檚 clothes off. Which makes things pretty interesting when Perri finds out Derek is her new roommate. *rubs hands together* Despite their mutual decision to keep their relationship PG-13 (there is, after all, a kissing contest to practice for), they tease and taunt each other relentlessly, each pushing the other鈥檚 restraint past the breaking point.
Having read all of Lauren Blakely鈥檚 books, I can confidently say that The Feel Good Factor is the author鈥檚 sexiest, most passionate, most unapologetically sensual romance to date. Not only is the heat level off the charts thanks to Derek and Perri鈥檚 raw, primal physical connection, but the combination of uncontrollable lust and unrestrained need between them makes every kiss an unforgettable, shamelessly erotic experience. And that鈥檚 just their kisses鈥 Throw in some expert-level dirty talk from Derek, and I don鈥檛 think I鈥檝e ever blushed so hard or had my jaw drop with such regularity while reading a Lauren Blakely book!
With a fun, lighthearted storyline packed with flirty, clever banter, characters that are charming and multidimensional with magnetic personalities, and a romance that鈥檚 the perfect combination of heart-meltingly sweet and scorching hot, The Feel Good Factor is my new favorite book by Lauren Blakely. This is a must-read, beautifully wrapping up Derek and Perri鈥檚 story, while enticing readers with Shaw and Vanessa鈥檚 forbidden flirtation. I can鈥檛 wait to get my hands on Nobody Does It Better, and luckily we don鈥檛 have long to wait.
*complimentary copy provided by author for an honest review
As a fan of Devney Perry鈥檚 Jamison Valley Series, I was thrilled to learn she鈥檇 be giving Sara and Milo their own story with The Candle Palace. These As a fan of Devney Perry鈥檚 Jamison Valley Series, I was thrilled to learn she鈥檇 be giving Sara and Milo their own story with The Candle Palace. These characters were introduced earlier in the series after they were brought together by unfortunate circumstances, and I loved that readers would get the chance to experience their romance from the beginning. With enough drama to set your pulse racing, and a romance that鈥檚 the perfect combination of sweet, steamy, and swoon-worthy, The Candle Palace is a riveting addition to the Jamison Valley Series.
Although it starts off eleven years into Milo and Sara鈥檚 marriage, The Candle Palace soon backtracks to their first meeting in the hospital where Sara worked as a nurse in the burn unit. After an explosion leaves police officer, Milo Phillips, covered in burns, he鈥檚 angry, guilt-ridden, and generally despondent. Despite his morose mood, the connection between Milo and his nurse, Sara Foster, is immediate. Her kind, caring, and softhearted disposition provides the perfect balm to comfort him during his recovery process. The two are inexplicably drawn to each other, experiencing an attraction that鈥檚 prohibited (especially with Milo being Sara鈥檚 patient), but nevertheless persistent.
Packed with familial, workplace, and romantic drama, The Candle Palace is an un-put-down-able page-turner! It was nice getting to see some familiar faces and getting to revisit a world I know and love for one last time.
*complimentary copy provided by author for an honest review
As a huge fan of Avery Flynn and a self-proclaimed rom-com addict, I was beyond eager to get my hands on Tomboy. I adored the first two books in the aAs a huge fan of Avery Flynn and a self-proclaimed rom-com addict, I was beyond eager to get my hands on Tomboy. I adored the first two books in the author鈥檚 Hartigans Series and I was intrigued not only by the seemingly unusual pairing of tomboyish Fallon and a hotshot hockey player, but by the fake relationship storyline as well. The unlikely duo are brought together by a certain pushy publicist, but a case of superstition and a mutually beneficial arrangement have them getting to know each other on a more personal level. There's just the *slight* problem that the entirety of Harbor City is watching their every move...
Thanks to a weekend of nursing professional hockey player, Zach Blackburn, back to health after some tainted muffins leave him at the mercy of her no-nonsense nursing skills, Fallon Hartigan finds herself on the cover of tabloid magazines, being touted as the newest gal pal of Harbor City's Most Hated Man. When his association with Fallon seems to shift Zach's bad luck on the ice, Fallon becomes his good luck charm and suddenly finds herself in a fake relationship with a man that ignites her temper and makes her pulse race. They tease and taunt each other, pushing each other鈥檚 buttons, each giving as good as they get. And while the roguish, jaded hockey star is as emotionally guarded and standoffish as the tough, opinionated nurse, the two develop some very real feelings that complicate their agreement.
With a lighthearted but heartfelt storyline, a romance that's packed with sexual tension and off-the-charts chemistry, and characters that are fun, humorous, captivating, and entertaining, Tomboy is another must-read from Avery Flynn. There are so many things I love about The Hartigans Series, but what I love the most is the author鈥檚 ability to create multidimensional characters that are so much more than they appear upon first introduction. This series invites readers to delve beneath appearances and preconceived notions to get to the very heart of its characters, which is exactly what Tomboy does with Fallon and Zach.
*complimentary copy provided by publisher for an honest review
From the moment Jamie and Marcus were introduced in Mouth to Mouth, the first book in Tessa Bailey鈥檚 Beach Kingdom Series, I had a sneaking suspicion From the moment Jamie and Marcus were introduced in Mouth to Mouth, the first book in Tessa Bailey鈥檚 Beach Kingdom Series, I had a sneaking suspicion they鈥檇 be paired together. And it wasn鈥檛 just my deep-seated desire to see one of my favorite authors write another M/M romance. Marcus鈥檚 loudmouth persona was such an unexpected, entertaining contrast to Jamie鈥檚 quieter, bookish manner that I knew we鈥檇 be seeing more of these two. I was excited to get their story with Heat Stroke and couldn鈥檛 wait to see what was in store for this unlikely duo.
Jamie Prince and Marcus O鈥橲haughnessy have spent their summers lifeguarding during the day and working nights at the bar Jamie co-owns with his two brothers. In that time, Marcus has become Jamie鈥檚 loud-mouthed, ever-present shadow, steadfastly following him around and eagerly soaking up his attention. He might not be able to give a name to his attraction to Jamie but Jamie is all too familiar with the confusion Marcus is struggling with over his sexuality, and is determined not to encourage him. Despite his efforts to resist, Jamie is reluctantly charmed by Marcus鈥檚 brash, larger-than-life persona, and, slowly but surely, the combination of Marcus鈥檚 persistence, his good-natured humor, and his raw, unfettered desire for Jamie wears down his reservations.
On paper, Marcus and Jamie are about as different as two characters can be. Jamie is intelligent, understated, and easygoing, while Marcus has, as Jamie puts it, an 鈥渦ncomplicated point of view,鈥 and demands the full attention of everyone around him. Despite their different personalities, they share an unlikely friendship and an indefinable attraction which creates an overwhelmingly intense, all-consuming physical and emotional connection. Their relationship is tentative and exploratory, but also passionate and unrestrained 鈥 a dichotomy that鈥檚 both adorably sweet and indescribably erotic.
With a storyline that鈥檚 emotionally compelling, complex, and riveting, characters that鈥檒l tug on your heartstrings, and a romance that鈥檚 provocative and boundary-pushing, Heat Stroke is another must-read from Tessa Bailey. Marcus and Jamie鈥檚 love story is pure smutty, but heartfelt goodness from start to finish and I loved every minute of their journey.
*complimentary copy provided by author for an honest review ...more
The Hating Game by Sally Thorne is easily one of my all-time favorite books. To say I鈥檝e been eager to read 99 Percent Mine is an understatement. My uThe Hating Game by Sally Thorne is easily one of my all-time favorite books. To say I鈥檝e been eager to read 99 Percent Mine is an understatement. My undying love for The Hating Game ensures that I was looking forward to 99 Percent Mine more than any other release slated for 2019. And I must say that, once again, Sally Thorne does not disappoint, delivering an emotionally stirring, captivating love story filled with heat and heart. As an unapologetic rom-com junkie, 99 Percent Mine is my favorite kind of book to read, with plenty of humor and just enough angst to give an occasional tug on your heartstrings.
With her own take on the brother鈥檚 best friend romance trope, Sally Thorne tells the story of Darcy Barrett and Tom Valeska, two longtime friends with a complicated history between them. Thanks to a perpetual case of wanderlust and an inability to communicate her feelings, Darcy has loved Tom from afar since she was eight years ago. It鈥檚 only when her grandmother鈥檚 house undergoes much-needed renovations that her longtime crush on her twin brother鈥檚 (off-limits) best friend is no longer a (not-so-secret) secret. The spitfire with a pixie haircut and an attitude that rivals those of the rough-and-tumble bikers that populate the bar where she works is a stark contrast to the clean-cut, tall, dark, and silent man she鈥檚 given her heart to, yet their connection is evident with everything they say and do. It鈥檚 their effortless banter, their ever-present sexual tension, and their electric chemistry that make them such a riveting pair.
While Darcy doesn鈥檛 know the meaning of subtlety when it comes to her attraction to Tom, she isn鈥檛 exactly declaring her undying love for him. She flirts shamelessly and teases relentlessly, blurting out her innermost thoughts and feelings, which are dismissed as jokes when her intentions towards Tom are uncertain. Though she鈥檚 a tough character to crack, with her flaws and idiosyncrasies laid bare within the pages of the book, I found Darcy鈥檚 unflinching honesty and stark self-awareness to be incredibly refreshing. It was her imperfections, her fearlessness, and her tendency to propel herself wholeheartedly into life and love that combine to create an impactful, unforgettable story.
With a deliciously, agonizingly, slow-burning romance that steadily builds to a burning, passionate, unfettered release of pent-up emotions, dialogue that鈥檚 witty, comical, and biting, and a storyline that鈥檚 deceptively simplistic, introspective, and heartfelt, 99 Percent Mine is another must-read novel from Sally Thorne.
*complimentary copy provided by publisher for an honest review...more
One of the reasons I鈥檓 not a huge fan of love triangles (especially when both guys are equally swoon-worthy) is that there鈥檚 ultimately someone left bOne of the reasons I鈥檓 not a huge fan of love triangles (especially when both guys are equally swoon-worthy) is that there鈥檚 ultimately someone left broken-hearted. And it鈥檚 not often that an author will go back and write a story for the character left behind. But that鈥檚 exactly what Jennifer L. Armentrout has done with Storm and Fury. The first book in The Harbinger Series finds new and familiar faces coming together to face an unknown threat. With a menagerie of powerful supernatural creatures, an unpredictable, action-packed narrative, and Jennifer L. Armentrout鈥檚 signature dry humor, Storm and Fury is an epic start to a brand-new series.
Storm and Fury reunites readers with Zayne, the Warden/gargoyle shape-shifter we first met in The Dark Elements Series, and introduces us to Trinity, an eighteen-year-old girl with unique abilities that鈥檚 been kept sheltered from the outside world. With a degenerative eye disease, a secret only a few chosen people are privy to, and a pervy ghost named Peanut for a roommate, Trinity Marrow doesn鈥檛 have the problems of a typical teenager. Like an average teen, she has boy problems and dreams about going off to college, but she also communicates with the dead and has an ever-present shadow to keep her out of trouble. Complicating her life further is the arrival of a neighboring clan, including a certain handsome young Warden, and the dire news they鈥檝e delivered.
From the moment they meet, Zayne and Trinity have a temperamental relationship, rife with snarky banter and sexual tension. Feisty, inquisitive, and strong-willed, Trinity challenges Zayne at every turn. They鈥檙e either arguing or flirting 鈥 that is, when they aren鈥檛 busy defending themselves against their enemies. The two are key players in the battle between good and evil, although, as they discover, things aren鈥檛 quite so black and white. Love isn鈥檛 a priority when their mission is a matter of life or death, but Zayne and Trinity are inexplicably drawn together. The two grow closer the more they get to know each other, yet secrets and revelations threaten to unravel their budding romance.
With plenty of action to set your pulse racing, ample danger to keep you on the proverbial edge of your seat, and enough suspense to leave the narrative shrouded in uncertainty, Storm and Fury is a fast-paced, addictive page-turner. It sets the tone for the series and will leave readers anxious to find out what happens next.
*complimentary copy provided by author for an honest review ...more
As a huge fan of Kristen Ashley and her MC romance series, Chaos, I was both excited and nervous to read Free. The excitement came from getting to finAs a huge fan of Kristen Ashley and her MC romance series, Chaos, I was both excited and nervous to read Free. The excitement came from getting to finally read Rush鈥檚 story, who just so happens to be Tack鈥檚 son...as in the president of Chaos, who we got to know and love not just in Motorcycle Man but throughout the entire Chaos Series. The nerves came from Free being the final book in the series. After the events leading up to this point, any reader would pick up on the fact that $h!t is about to hit the fan, and, while I had faith that Kristen Ashley would give Rush and the crew a well-deserved Happily Ever After, I had a sneaking suspicion the journey would be obstacle-ridden and more than a little dangerous (which it was). With such an action-packed, suspense-filled storyline, Free is a fast-paced thrill ride, but it鈥檚 also a romantic, steamy love story that鈥檒l have you swooning from start to finish.
With the final book in the Chaos Series comes the culmination of a series-long entanglement with two deadly foes: Chew, a former Chaos brother, and a Valenzuela, a local crime kingpin. When Cole 鈥淩ush鈥 Allen meets Rebel Stapleton, she鈥檚 placed herself right in the middle of the drama, working undercover to bring down the very men that have caused so much trouble for Chaos. Sparks flew between them from the moment they laid eyes on each other, igniting a combustible chemistry and fiery passion that leads to a whirlwind romance. The cool, confident, and tough, but gentle biker is drawn to Rebel鈥檚 fierce, fearless nature, and doesn鈥檛 hesitate to use his considerable charms to win her over. Not that she needs much convincing鈥 Once you get to know Rush, you鈥檒l see why. Not only is Rush a younger version of Tack (meaning dreamy AF), but he鈥檚 also heart-meltingly sweet, deliciously sexy, and impossibly swoon-worthy.
With a multifaceted narrative that painstakingly interweaves several subplots, a cast of beloved characters that demand your attention and inspire your devotion, and a romance that鈥檒l give you butterflies and set your cheeks ablaze, every single page of Free is filled to bursting with action, drama, romance, and suspense. The storyline is a mind-blowing collision of the Rock Chick, Dream Man, Anti-Heroes, Honey, and Chaos Series that鈥檚 sure to make the heart of any KA fan skip a beat. For the finale of the Chaos Series, Free is nothing short of epic.
*complimentary copy provided by author for an honest review
When I learned that Karina Halle wrote a single dad/enemies-to-lovers/second chance/office romance, I was intrigued to see how she鈥檇 meld together theWhen I learned that Karina Halle wrote a single dad/enemies-to-lovers/second chance/office romance, I was intrigued to see how she鈥檇 meld together these four tropes into one cohesive storyline. Following the story of two former lovers turned rivals competing for the same job, Nothing Personal is a rom-com that delivers on both the romance and the comedy. With a storyline that鈥檚 both uproariously funny and hopelessly romantic, characters that are engaging and relatable, and a romance that鈥檚 heart-meltingly sweet and scorching hot, Nothing Personal is my new favorite read from Karina Halle.
After her boss unexpectedly quits and names her ex-boyfriend as his replacement, Nova Lane鈥檚 life is turned upside down. Kessler Rocha, her level-ten heartbreaker of an ex has relocated to Hawaii with his young son, looking more handsome than ever. Their chemistry is obvious, their attraction is mutual, if reluctant, and their animosity is a living, breathing entity. The unresolved feelings and sexual tension lingering between Kessler and Nova make for an explosive work environment, rife with snarky banter and covert hookups, all in the midst of a not-exactly-healthy competition for a coveted management position.
With the perfect balance of heat, humor, and heart, Nothing Personal is a book that鈥檒l tug on your heartstrings and make you laugh aloud again and again. The love/hate relationship between Kessler and Nova brings fire and passion to the narrative as well as hilarity. Whether it was Kessler鈥檚 vendetta against a mischievous chicken or Nova鈥檚 tendency to say exactly what鈥檚 on her mind, this book had me in stitches from start to finish. There鈥檚 also just enough angst to stir your emotions and ensure you鈥檙e glued to your Kindle, needing to find out what happens next.
If you鈥檙e in the mood for a lighthearted love story that鈥檒l make you blush one moment and make you laugh the next, Nothing Personal is an unputdownable page-turner. As a rom-com junkie, I can confidently say this is one you won鈥檛 want to miss out on.
*complimentary copy provided by publisher for an honest review
There鈥檚 something about two characters clashing upon their first meeting that has me instantly intrigued to learn more. From the moment Rosie and DevlThere鈥檚 something about two characters clashing upon their first meeting that has me instantly intrigued to learn more. From the moment Rosie and Devlin exchanged tension-filled, slightly-hostile banter in Moonlight Seduction by Jennifer L. Armentrout, I knew there would be more to their story. I was therefore thrilled that the standoffish eldest de Vincent brother and the free-spirited amateur ghost-hunter would meet again in Moonlight Scandals. After the suspense-filled, drama-ridden events from the first two books of the de Vincent Series, I had high expectations for Moonlight Scandals, and once again, Jennifer L. Armentrout doesn鈥檛 disappoint, unraveling more mysteries, spilling more secrets, and unfolding more drama than ever before.
Baker by day and paranormal investigator by night, Rosie Herpin is a quirky, vivacious, spitfire. When she comes face to face with the Devil a.k.a. Devlin de Vincent, she immediately butts heads with his haughty, no-nonsense demeanor. With a determination to live life to the fullest and an optimistic outlook on life, Rosie鈥檚 the complete opposite of Devlin, who鈥檚 as guarded as he is mysterious. The two run hot and cold, with easily-ignited tempers and a rapport that鈥檚 both passionate and combative. Their snarky, sharp-tongued banter is both riveting and entertaining, evoking a love/hate vibe that had me glued to their every interaction.
What I love most about an opposites-attract romance is the energy that the two contrasting personalities of the main characters bring to the story. Together, Rosie and Devlin create fireworks, baiting and challenging each other every moment of their twisted, complicated relationship. There鈥檚 raw, unrestrained need between them. There鈥檚 uncertainty. There are roiling emotions. And then there are the skeletons in the de Vincent closet, which are just now seeing the light of day. In Moonlight Scandals, everything comes to a head, closing out a three-book-long quest to uncover the de Vincent family鈥檚 deepest, darkest mysteries.
With a number of jaw-dropping revelations, and several oh-$h!t moments that鈥檒l have you gasping aloud and reeling from shock, Moonlight Scandals is the most evocative, the most scandalous, and the most intense book in the de Vincent Series. Moonlight Scandals will tug on your heartstrings, set your pulse racing, and leave you stunned, but ultimately, in awe. This is another must-read from Jennifer L. Armentrout.
*complimentary copy provided by publisher for an honest review
Have you ever finished a book and thought to yourself, what the heck did I just read? Because I now have the mother of all book hangovers thanks to CoHave you ever finished a book and thought to yourself, what the heck did I just read? Because I now have the mother of all book hangovers thanks to Colleen Hoover. While thrillers aren鈥檛 typically stories I gravitate towards, I was eager to get started on Verity, especially after reading the blurb. If just the description of the book could leave me feeling unsettled and more than a little creeped out, I could only imagine what the book had in store. Only it turns out, I couldn鈥檛 have possibly imagined the dark and twisted journey that Verity would take me on. Bone-chilling and shiver-inducing, with pulse-pounding suspense, Verity is a veritable nail-biter of a thriller.
When struggling writer, Lowen Ashleigh, is hired to co-author a successful series by Verity Crawford, she has no idea she鈥檇 be swept up in a foreboding tale of mystery and deceit. Assuming creative control over the remaining books in the popular series after an accident leaves Verity incapacitated requires Lowen to stay in her home and comb through notes for research. It also means being in close quarters with Verity鈥檚 handsome, grief-stricken husband, Jeremy. It鈥檚 when she stumbles across a manuscript containing Verity鈥檚 autobiography that Lowen gets an in-in-depth, intimate glimpse into Verity鈥檚 life, exposing her deepest, darkest secrets and digging up all the skeletons in her closet.
In what has to be one of the most complex, morally grey narratives I鈥檝e read, Verity is a mind-f***k of epic proportions. It鈥檚 a story told in two parts, one set in the present and one in the past, with the feel of an older gothic romance 脿 la Jane Eyre and Rebecca. Verity is both fascinating and disturbing, evoking gut-churning emotions that only grow more intense as the story progresses. Colleen Hoover does a brilliant job in not just building suspense but maintaining it with each chapter, which had my heart racing nonstop and had my anxiety and tension levels soaring. Reading Verity was a bit like watching a horror movie because I was glued to my Kindle, desperate to know what happened next, but I also wanted to cover my eyes and find my happy place.
Wildly different from Colleen Hoover鈥檚 previous books, but just as mesmerizing, Verity is a fast-paced thrill ride that kept me guessing from start to finish. Shell-shocked would be the best way to describe my most prevalent emotion upon finishing Verity, along with a bit of awe, mild relief, and more than a little curiosity. Reading this book took me outside my comfort zone, but it was undeniably riveting and left me wanting more. While Verity is not for the faint of heart, it鈥檚 without a doubt a must-read.
*complimentary copy provided by author for an honest review ...more
As a rom-com junkie AND a huge fan of Christina Lauren, I was psyched to learn that my favorite author duo would be following Josh and Hazel鈥檚 Guide As a rom-com junkie AND a huge fan of Christina Lauren, I was psyched to learn that my favorite author duo would be following Josh and Hazel鈥檚 Guide to Not Dating with another romantic comedy. From the blurb alone, I was already half in love with their newest release, My Favorite Half-Night Stand, so I was particularly eager to dive in. With a friends-to-lovers romance, a fast-paced narrative following a group of friends as they navigate the shark-infested waters of online dating, and an ill-advised plot involving secrecy and mistaken identity, My Favorite Half-Night Stand is best explained as Friends meets You鈥檝e Got Mail meets Cyrano de Bergerac, but with a modern twist.
As a criminology professor in her late twenties with four male best friends, the dating prospects for Millie Morris are practically non-existent. While her love life, or lack thereof, hasn鈥檛 been a major cause for concern, an upcoming work event and a pledge between her friends to find suitable dates leads Millie and co. to signing up for an online dating service. Meanwhile a drunken hookup with her 鈥渟trictly platonic鈥 friend, Reid Campbell, paired with Millie鈥檚 impulsive decision to assume an online alter ego and strike up a conversation with Reid, complicates their easygoing friendship. Having been close friends for two years, Millie and Reid know the ins and outs of each other, although their shift from friends to lovers sends their once-effortless connection into a tailspin of attraction, desire, and confused feelings.
There are friends-to-lovers romances and then there鈥檚 Millie and Reid鈥檚 maybe, possibly, would-be romance. To say their situation is messy and problematical would be an understatement; it鈥檚 more like a train-wreck you know is imminent, yet you can鈥檛 tear your eyes away for a single second because: drama. These are flawed, multi-dimensional characters whose intricacies take time and effort to unravel, and, even though there are times you want to smack them upside the head, you also can鈥檛 help but root for them. It was initially jarring, but ultimately refreshing to read a story that was so thought-provoking and more morally ambiguous than other romance novels.
Between the flirty email exchanges, group chats between Millie and her friends, and a narrative that鈥檚 both stimulating and engaging, My Favorite Half-Night Stand is completely captivating from start to finish. I loved the humorous interactions between the tight-knit group of friends, which were always candid, sometimes profound, and often ridiculous, giving the story a fun, lighthearted feel. With plenty of humor, enough steam to set your cheeks ablaze, and just enough angst to tug on your heartstrings, My Favorite Half-Night Stand is a must-read rom-com from Christina Lauren.
*complimentary copy provided by publisher for an honest review
What鈥檚 better than a new release from Tessa Bailey? A SURPRISE release from Tessa Bailey! I knew little going in to Mouth to Mouth, yet the blurb and What鈥檚 better than a new release from Tessa Bailey? A SURPRISE release from Tessa Bailey! I knew little going in to Mouth to Mouth, yet the blurb and the bad boy/good girl storyline definitely piqued my interest. While this isn鈥檛 the first time the author has used this trope, the pairing of a former convict and a fresh-faced college student gave Mouth to Mouth a bit of a forbidden, decadently dirty feel. And boy was this book dirty鈥hich isn鈥檛 surprising since Tessa Bailey is the queen of dirty-talking heroes. But I must say she managed to outdo herself (once again) with Rory Price.
With a chip on his shoulder, an easily-ignited temper, and a devil may care attitude, Rory Price is the textbook definition of trouble. A stint in prison and two jobs working as a lifeguard by day and bartender by night has him going through each day on autopilot. It鈥檚 only when dedicated bookworm and danger magnet, Olive Cunningham, unexpectedly bursts into his life that it鈥檚 turned upside down. For Rory, Olive is an anomaly in his monotonous daily life, wide-eyed and eager to experience the world around her after having been sheltered for the first eighteen years of her life. For Olive, Rory is this smooth-talking, experienced older guy with an unmistakable aura of danger about him. They are two complete opposites, inexplicably drawn together by an intense and unadulterated attraction to each other.
Never has a bad boy/good girl romance been as heart-meltingly sweet, as relentlessly erotic, and as achingly romantic as Mouth to Mouth. As the quintessential good girl, Olive has a na茂ve and optimistic outlook on life thanks to her unconventional upbringing. She鈥檚 unaccustomed to the unrestrained, all-consuming desire that Rory evokes in her, but is determined to explore their connection, even as he attempts to keep his distance to save her from himself. Despite his assurance that he鈥檚 not good for Olive, Rory reveres her and handles her with painstaking care鈥nless it鈥檚 in the bedroom, where he鈥檚 possessive and demanding, worshiping her body and uttering jaw-droppingly filthy words with practiced ease. *cue major swooning*
With protagonists that are endearing, emotionally compelling, and multi-faceted, a storyline that'll tug on your heartstrings, and a romance that'll make you sigh, blush, and dissolve in a puddle of swoon, Mouth to Mouth is another must-read from Tessa Bailey! While I didn't want Mouth to Mouth to end, finishing the book was a bit easier knowing we'll be getting more of the Beach Kingdom Series in the future. I have a sneaking suspicion we've already met all our future protagonists and I can't wait to discover who and what comes next.
*complimentary copy provided by author for an honest review...more
After reading the blurb for Unzipped, I was instantly intrigued. It鈥檚 not the first time Lauren Blakely has written about a hero trying to win back thAfter reading the blurb for Unzipped, I was instantly intrigued. It鈥檚 not the first time Lauren Blakely has written about a hero trying to win back the girl of his dreams, but it IS the first time that said dream girl isn鈥檛 the heroine. What was even more intriguing was that Unzipped was being released as an Audible original, co-narrated by Andi Arndt and Joe Arden. As a frequent reviewer of the author鈥檚 books, I don鈥檛 often get to experience her books in audiobook format, so getting to listen to Unzipped was immensely enjoyable, especially in the hands of two such evocative narrators.
As a rom-com junkie, I鈥檝e read my fair share of memorable meet cutes but the bungled, Say Anything-inspired first meeting between Finley and Kyler, who shall henceforth be known as Tom (just go with it), is one for the books. After his grand gesture to win back his college girlfriend results in him serenading the wrong woman, Tom is forced to regroup, this time with the help of an inquisitive stranger. Working as a writer for her own TV comedy show, Finley鈥檚 brain is wired to see the humor in every situation. She analyzes the world around her, constantly looking for writing material, and inspiration strikes in the form of the sexy bespectacled nerd who鈥檚 adorably clueless when it comes to women. Neither expects their harmless flirtation to lead to a mutual attraction that has them dancing toward something deliciously dangerous.
Together, Tom and Finley have this indefinable, magnetic connection that鈥檚 evident in their effortless rapport. They interweave movie quotes into dialogue and flirt shamelessly, bonding over their idiosyncrasies and reveling in each other鈥檚 quirks. Their similarities are embraced, but so are their differences, which was both charming and compelling. While Tom initially sets out to reunite with a former flame, his plans change upon meeting a woman who challenges him, excites him, and surprises him at every turn. In turn, Tom gives Finley hope that real-life romance can be just as swoon-worthy as the fictional love stories of film and television.
Packed with flirtatious banter and lighthearted humor, Unzipped is a rom-com that鈥檚 cleverly written, refreshingly self-aware, and just plain entertaining. As narrators, Andi Arndt and Joe Arden breathe life into Lauren Blakely鈥檚 words, delivering a delightfully fun, unbelievably sexy, listening experience with Unzipped.
*complimentary copy provided by Audible for an honest review ...more
After devouring Butterface, the first book in Avery Flynn鈥檚 Hartigans Series, I was already impatient to get my hands on Muffin Top. I blame the previAfter devouring Butterface, the first book in Avery Flynn鈥檚 Hartigans Series, I was already impatient to get my hands on Muffin Top. I blame the preview at the end of Butterface... I mean, it's not often you see a hero saving a heroine from a stranger who obnoxiously comments on her weight and food choice. My interest was piqued, and I was immediately intrigued by both Frankie Hartigan and Lucy Kavanagh.
Those who read Butterface will recognize our heroine as Gina鈥檚 plus-sized firecracker of a best friend, Lucy, and our hero as Ford鈥檚 brother, the charming playboy firefighter, Frankie. While the two are acquainted with each other, it鈥檚 not until a chance meeting at a bar and Frankie鈥檚 impulsive decision to use his leave from work to accompany Lucy to her high school reunion that their relationship takes an interesting turn. The combination of an emotionally guarded cynic who鈥檚 perpetually wary of men (and society as a whole) and a commitment-phobe whose enjoyment of the opposite sex leads to a self-imposed sex ban seems like a classic case of opposites attracting, but, the more we get to know Frankie and Lucy, the more we see exactly how similar they are.
As a renowned womanizer, accustomed to having women fall for his many charms, Frankie isn鈥檛 expecting to be dazzled by Lucy鈥檚 straightforward, ball-busting attitude, but she delves beneath his surface and leaves a lasting impact. Similarly, Frankie pushes and challenges Lucy, going into battle against her insecurities and helping to bring out her confident, empowered side. Whether they鈥檙e bantering flirtatiously, butting heads, or steaming up the pages with their scorching hot chemistry, Frankie and Lucy are a riveting, compelling pair.
On the one hand, Muffin Top is exactly what I've come to expect from Avery Flynn. It's humorous and lighthearted, with a healthy amount of steam. Muffin Top isn't your typical rom-com, however, tackling a more substantial subject matter and delivering a heaping dose of the feels. With a storyline that's relatable and thought-provoking, thoroughly developed characters that are endearing, passionate, and lovable, and a romance that's sexy, swoon-worthy, and more than a little naughty, Muffin Top is a must-read from Avery Flynn.
*complimentary copy provided by publisher for an honest review...more
As a huge Kristen Ashley fan, Loose Ends is my idea of heaven. Not only do we get follow up stories with some favorite couples, but we get brand new sAs a huge Kristen Ashley fan, Loose Ends is my idea of heaven. Not only do we get follow up stories with some favorite couples, but we get brand new short stories too! And each story and novella included in the anthology is just as sweet, just as heartwarming, and just as swoon-worthy as the one before. Kristen Ashley writes epic epilogues that can evoke just as much emotions as entire books so it鈥檚 not surprising that her novellas and short stories are equally impactful.
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About No Clue
Who doesn鈥檛 sign and swoon when thinking of Joe Callahan? I was positively giddy at the prospect of getting an update from one of my all-time favorite KA heroes and No Clue is a short and sweet glimpse into Joe and Vi鈥檚 daily life. With a special appearance from a kid-friendly, though still scarily intimidation Ryker, who provides a bit of comic relief and made me wish that he鈥檇 get his own book following his harebrained, yet well-intentioned schemes. Seeing Joe and Vi blissfully happy and tackling each challenge they face with grace and love warmed my heart and put a smile on my face.
About The Stars Aligned
The Stars Aligned is one of the reasons I was dying to get my hands on Loose Ends. After reading Heaven and Hell, I hoped there would be a follow-up story featuring Hap and Luci, so getting a novella dedicated to these characters is especially exciting. In Heaven and Hell, it was obvious something was brewing between Hap and Luci and, in The Stars Aligned, their budding attraction is confronted head-on. While the stubborn, former soldier is warring with his feelings for Luci and his loyalty to his deceased brother-in-arms, the fiery, passionate Italian widow is willing to fight for who and what she wants.
Despite its shorter length, this novella is such an intense, profound, well-rounded story, packing so much feeling and emotion within its pages. It鈥檚 wistful, romantic, heartbreakingly beautiful, and full of love and longing. It鈥檒l tug on your heartstrings, put a blush on your cheeks, and leave you feeling grateful for the time spent with this couple.
About The Favor
As my favorite of all of the anti-heroes, I was particularly excited to get up an update on Deacon. Knowing what he endured to get his happy ending makes it all the more meaningful to get a glimpse of Deacon and Cassidy鈥檚 slice of paradise. With his two little girls and a wife he loves more than anything in the world, Deacon is perfectly content. This short story follows an adorable interaction between Deacon and his daughters, then a scorching hot romantic encounter with his wife. The Favor is brief but satisfying and I loved every second of it.
About More Than Everything
After meeting Diesel, Maddox, and Molly in The Greatest Risk, I knew we鈥檇 be seeing more of these characters at some point. The fact that Kristen Ashley had yet to tackle a m茅nage romance had me curious to see how a more unconventional relationship would unfold. So what do you need to know about More Than Everything? It鈥檚 S.T.E.A.M.Y. With a capital everything. Which, if you鈥檝e read the Honey Series, is pretty much par for the course.
While Maddox and Diesel are planning for their future with Molly, Diesel鈥檚 fears about what his close-minded family would think about who he loves and how he chooses to live his life is impacting them from moving forward. Recognizing Diesel鈥檚 inner turmoil, Molly and Maddox set out to prove he鈥檚 worthy of their love. With twice the uber Alpha male hotness, and a number of jaw-droppingly steamy love scenes, More Than Everything is a relentlessly erotic, angst-filled novella about love and acceptance. The ending is picture perfect, with an appearance from a certain Chaos character that鈥檒l have fans excited for the author鈥檚 next MC romance.
About Tell Me What You Want
A short story about a matchmaking fairy who brings two unsuspecting attendees together at a Spice Girls concert? Yes, please! Tell Me What You Want was a completely unexpected, completely wonderful tale featuring a heart-meltingly sweet meet cute at the unlikeliest of places. This story could鈥檝e been four-hundred pages and I would鈥檝e happily devoured every sentence. Here鈥檚 hoping that this isn鈥檛 the last we鈥檝e seen of Maurelle, the matchmaking fairy.
About Rock Chick Renewal
I鈥檒l bet you there鈥檚 not one person who read the Rock Chick Series who didn鈥檛 fall head over heels in love with Tod. Indie鈥檚 fierce and fabulous neighbor who brought drama and flair to the estrogen-filled Rock Chick group is one of Kristen Ashley鈥檚 most memorable characters so, naturally, I was thrilled for him to finally get his own story. The man who revels in planning the weddings of his closest gal pals gets a perfectly lovely surprise that鈥檒l have you oohing and aahing, and sniffling a time or two. Rock Chick Renewal is a nostalgic, delightfully fun story with whole appearances from several familiar faces. Mostly, it made me want to re-read the entire Rock Chick for the umpteenth time.
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Seeing these stories grouped together as part of the Loose Ends anthology only emphasizes Kristen Ashley鈥檚 ability to seamlessly adopt the unique tone of each character with her distinctive writing style. Each featured short story is a feel-good, abbreviated visit with beloved characters, while the novellas are in-depth explorations of characters we鈥檝e only briefly gotten to know in previous books. Kristen Ashley mentioned the possibility of writing more short stories and novellas in the future and I fervently hope this will be the case.
*complimentary copy provided by the author for an honest review...more
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