Flurry

By: Alison Rhymes

Release Date: April 16, 2024

Publisher: Alison Rhymes LLC

Author Website: https://alisonrhymes.com/

5 Star

In Flurry, book two in the Seattle Blades series, Alison Rhymes brought her readers to a place of acceptance where often there is resistance to relationships out of the social norm. Love comes in all shapes and sizes and in this case it came in threes.

Flurry was a story that was as insightful as it was compassionate. When upcoming hockey star Zander stepped out of the confines of his fame and reached for a chance at love with not one but two people, Willa and Damien, all three fought for their love showing not only their devotion to each other but the agony of their commitment. The struggles of this threesome were not in acknowledging their love but in how to express it so that it was not tainted with hate and abuse. The rightful hesitancy and concern of the acceptance of this relationship was played out well by this author. Ms. Rhymes navigated and expressed the equality in this trio adeptly, putting all three of her lovers on equal footing with no one less deserving or prominent than anyone else and showing their unique contributions to their relationship. The interactions of this trio with friends and family were touching to see and at times as joyful as painful.

Alison Rhymes gives complex portrayals and the gray areas they often fall into a fighting chance with her readers. Flawless is not an adjective that thrives in her stories as each of her characters has their share of faults and issues to balance out their strengths. Ms. Rhymes' dedication to her portrayals shows in every word she writes for meaningful works. Flurry was a beautiful story of love finding a way to conquer fears and reaching for the stars!

*I was given an advanced copy. All opinions expressed are my own. *

*While this story can be read as a standalone, reading the previous book in this series would enhance the overall reading experience of this work.*

The Summer You Found Me

By: Elizabeth O’Roark

Release Date: January 25, 2024

Publisher: Elizabeth O’Roark

Author Website: https://www.elizabethoroark.com/

5 Star

Elizabeth O'Roark's The Summer You Found Me was a hard read, a beautifully ugly read, a story that will break your heart even as it makes it whole again.

Kate Lowell was not an easy character to love. In fact for the first half of this book it was nearly impossible not to actively hate her, so it was a testament to this author's storytelling skills that she was able to turn Kate around to a place of not only like but love. Brilliant and damaged Kate's life was one of endless sadness and tragedy that overshadowed any bright spots that managed to break through. Her holding on to what she perceived as the good points of her past smothered her and was unrealistic blinding her to the potential good that was waiting for her peripherally. Kate's acting out in cruel and calculated ways was hard to ignore. 

Jacob "Beck" Beck never reached out for more as the one thing he wanted was taken from before it was his, Kate. Attached to Beck's best friend Kate was taboo and Beck struggled to keep his distance until fate intervened and he was given a chance to be where he always wanted with Kate. Hidden by indifference and sarcasm Beck hid a tender heart and kindness.

Beck was a man who understood Kate on a whole other level. This couple's connection was deep, painful and filled with broken pieces. That they could see each other's dysfunction and not only not run but try and fix it spoke volumes. As this pair worked through their attraction, which was so much more than physical, it was hard not to feel their pain as well as their love. The intensity of Beck and Kate's chemistry was powerful and the effort to not get knocked down by it was not easy, theirs was a fierce love with lots of obstacles. Intense interactions and conflicts fleshed this story out and emphasized the depth of pain in this work as well as meaningful friendships showing hope.

Elizabeth O'Roark goes to places that are as intimidating as they are devastating. This author's ability to bring happiness out of emotionally crushing situations is remarkable and inspiring. Elizabeth O'Roark's The Summer You Found Me was this year's book that needed to be found, a great read 

*While this story can be read as a standalone, reading the previous book in this series would enhance the overall reading experience of this work.*

The Knockout

By: Bella Matthews

Release Date: April 11 , 2024

Publisher: Bella Matthews

Author Website: https://www.authorbellamatthews.com/

5 Stars

Underneath professional hockey player Ares Wilder's confident and cocky exterior was a standup man few saw but that was just waiting for the right person to love. Grace Sinclair was a people pleaser, she pleased everyone to the detriment of herself. Grace found herself at a place in life where she found no pleasure in her accomplishments and with a heart ready to give to someone.

Ares and Graced really saw each other and their dynamic was both sweet and honest. They could reveal their true selves and knew that the other would love them for who they truly were. When fear and subterfuge took hold of Ares and Grace's relationship their idyllic bubble collapsed forcing them to fight for what they each wanted individually but most importantly as a couple resulting in a testament to the strength of their love.

As is her norm Ms. Matthews mixes lighthearted moments with touching and poignant ones. Ares and Grace were both shown to be more than their face value and their belief in each other made them a couple who left no doubt that their attraction was more than just a passing interest. Well thought out conflict gave this couple depth and built their devotion to each other. Entertaining interactions with friends and family who use the term boundaries loosley added a great layer to this work.

Bella Matthews' loving and snarky family and friendship comradery is some of the best out there. With every one of this author's books you can expect lots of breaking and healing truths. The Knockout gives readers' another great Bella Matthews couple to fall in love with!

*I was given an advanced copy. All opinions expressed are my own. *
*While this story can be read as a standalone, reading the previous book in this series and the other series related to this series would enhance the overall reading experience of this work.*

Dr. Single Dad

By: Louise Bay

Release Date: April 11, 2024

Publisher: Louise Bay

Author Website: https://louisebay.com

4 Stars

Dr. Single Dad shares the story of the last Cove brother even while bringing in the next generation of Coves' in a most unexpected and challenging way for a great read!

The youngest Cove sibling, Dr. Dax Cove, was more in his head than his heart. In his world logic ruled the day but proved to be not so helpful when emotions came into play and things got messy. Professional nanny Eira Cadogan made a career of nurturing. Eira was willing to do anything for those she loved and loved in abundance.

When Dax found out he was the father of a newborn daughter his orderly life was thrown into chaos. In his mind with minimal adjustments everything should have gone on with no real disruptions. That notion soon flew out the window and beautiful and capable nanny Eira began the process of setting him straight even while starting the process of educating him on joys of parenthood and learning to love unconditionally 

Dax and Eira were opposites in many ways. Dax came from a loving family yet was reserved and Eira came from an emotionally distant family and spread love wherever she went. The thing that his pair undeniably had in common was a blistering physical attraction that made them as uncomfortable as it drew them closer. Both Dax and Eira ended up showing each other important life lessons that made them better people and gave them the ability to fall in love in a way where they could succeed as a couple. Humorous and touching interactions between all the Coves will delight this author's audience.

Louise Bay's Doctor series really evolved and grew its family dynamic and interactions so that there was an intimacy that incrementally was refined and distinguished as each of the Cove brother's fell in love. This author's love for the Cove brothers was expressed in each and every one of their stories for a memorable and endearing series. Love in its many forms from that of family bonds to deep friendships is Ms. Bay's area of expertise as time and time again she writes stories that her readers don't just like but love. Dr. Single Dad was a great ending to a beloved series!

*I was given an advanced copy. All opinions expressed are my own. **While this book is part of a series it can be read as a stand alone.*

Red Kingdom

By: Rachel L. Demeter

Release Date: April 10, 2024

Publisher: Rachel L. Demeter

Author Website: https://www.racheldemeter.com/

5 Star

Inspired by the fairy tale of Little Red Riding Hood Rachel L. Demeter creates a story uniquely her own even while paying tribute to a beloved story.

Swept back in time to a fictional medieval land, Norland, Ms. Demeter gives her audience a vivid and riveting reading experience. This writer merged pertinent historical facts with her fictional land seamlessly. Starting off with the siege of the royal family of Norland's castle by the infamous Black Wolf, this story was fast paced and impossible to put down. The battle segments depicted in this work felt authentic, as if this author transported her readers to an actual medieval battle scene. Ms. Demeter's fight segments were exceedingly well written from the build up to battle, to the actual battle, to the terror and brutality of the aftermath of a siege.

Sir Rowan Dietrich, The Black Wolf, was complex in his role as a conqueror. At face value he could appear a villain but with careful revelations it became apparent he was the hero that not only the people of Norland needed but that Princess Blanchette also needed. As the only surviving member of the Royal Family of Norland Princess Blanchette carried the weight of her legacy as well the sorrow of her family's loss. Left with nothing but a signet ring and a red cape her grandmother made, Blanchette proved that she could rise from the ashes of tragedy and was more than capable of holding Sir Rowan accountable.

As a couple Sir Rowan and Princess Blanchette were well matched. They each had many layers to uncover and their slow burn basic attraction kept them in each other's sphere. The incremental exposure of this pair's compatibility from their kindness, self-sacrifice and integrity was skillfully done by Ms. Demeter. The respect, trust and love that developed between Sir Rowan and Blanchette felt true and honest to this story.

Ms. Demeter does exceptionally well in expressing her character's emotions. As a writer she easily captivates her audience with her beautiful imagination as well as her perceptive writing. Rachel L. Demeter's Red Kingdom is a story that might just be the hidden treasure of this year!

*I was given an advanced copy. All opinions expressed are my own.*

Older

By: Jennifer Hartmann

Release Date: April 9, 2024

Publisher: Jennifer Hartmann

Author Website: https://www.jenniferhartmannauthor.com/

5 Star

Jennifer Hartmann's Older is the perfect example of when slow burns works!

Detail, details, details thrived in this work creating a story filled with depth and meaning. From Ms. Hartmann's chosen period of the 90's and its culture to this story's main character's age-gap to the joining of two old souls, Older was steeped in fine distinctions that emphasized age and the wisdom and hazards of it.

Reed was a character who struggled with his feelings but not with doing the right thing. More than once he was placed in situations where he walked away putting others needs and feelings before his own and often Halley's. Halley looked and acted older than she was. Her views on life extended beyond her years and in many ways helped her find the good in a life that was often not kind to her. Halley's ability to love and nurture gave her the comfort that often eluded her from her parents 

Both Reed and Halley grew up fast. Reed was on his own at a young age as well as being a teen father. Halley lived in a home that was filled with fear and abuse learning to take care of herself at a young age. Yet despite what these characters endured neither was bitter or disillusioned. That this pair was drawn to each other came as no surprise as they shared a deeper understanding of each other based on their life experiences that went beyond the physical. Reed's daughter Tara was a good way to juxtapose Halley's maturity vs. that of her peers.

Throughout this work there was a strong presence of hesitancy and yearning that left Reed and Halley in emotional agony. This couples pulsating attraction that was kept at arm's length, was extremely well done by Ms. Hartmann. This writer methodically explored these characters' feelings and clearly showed that the lines being crossed were not because of Reed and Halley's age difference but because of the severe judgments of those around them. The emotions in this story ran high and were easily conveyed to readers with many heartbreaking moments.

Jennifer Hartmann stories always have a level of emotional intimacy that is as daunting as it is alluring. This writer's portrayals are individually and collectively unforgettable. Ms. Hartman excels in bringing tragedy and joy together showing the power of experiencing one in order to feel the other. Older brings the trials of love at their rawest for a touching story.

*I was given an advanced copy. All opinions expressed are my own.*

Relentless

By: Arianna Fraser

Release Date: March 28, 2024

Publisher: Arianna Fraser

Author Bio: https://www.amazon.com/stores/author/B07T1N49HN/about

5 Stars

Ariannna Fraser knows her way around a good kidnapping scenario and goes full throttle in Relentless for a story that will leave readers hanging off the edge of their seats!

Cameron MacTavish came from a well-established powerful Scottish Mafia family. Big and intimidating, his unforgiving determination was a trait that he wore proudly and used to his advantage everyday. Morana Ivanov was nothing more than a bargaining chip for her abusive and corrupt father and family. Living with the stigma of her name's meaning, death, everyday Morana fought to live. Where Cameron came from a place of love and support Morana struggled to find caring and safety anywhere in her world.

When Morana was stolen at her wedding to a cruel and dissolute business partner of her father's as an act of revenge by Cameron, it was cause to celebrate even as she found herself judged and condemned by her captor. The uneasy chemistry and distrust Cameron and Morana had was as inescapable as the house Morana was imprisoned in. Morana was not typical of the lifestyle she was born into or the one she found herself unwillingly placed into with her kindness and lack of tools to defend herself. As this couple navigated the hurdles of their arranged revenge marriage it gradually became apparent their growing attraction was more than superficial or temporary.

This writer's villains are no joke, not only are they abundant but they are completely devoid of integrity offsetting her antiheroes beautifully. Danger is a constant threat in her romances bringing hardcore action and intense conflict both physically and emotionally. This author's syndicate families are not ones to be messed with and she shows that with every interaction she writes.

Arianna Fraser has established herself as a reliably wonderful writer with her dark adventures! Her characters are uncompromising in both their intense love and hate and their emotions are thrown around liberally leaving lots of bruised hearts on the way to their happily ever after’s. Get ready to be held book hostage by Arianna Fraser and Relentless, it's worth the risk!

*I was given an advanced copy. All opinions expressed are my own.*

Grim

By: L. Wilder

Release Date: April 3, 2024

Publisher: L. Wilder

Author Social Media: https://www.facebook.com/AuthorLeslieWilder/

5 Stars

Welcome to the Little Rock Satan's Fury MC chapter! Get Ready for a WIlder ride as L. Wilder ushers in her new series with Grim holding nothing back!

Grim was exactly what you would expect from a MC enforcer, big and scary with a touch of terrifying. This guy was someone you wanted to avoid at all cost yet underneath it all there were hints of kindness and most importantly the ability to love. Grim 's execution might have been rough around the edges but what you saw was what you got, the good, bad and the ugly making him honest and trustworthy in a harsh way.

Single Mom Jenna could not catch a break. Blessed, or cursed depending on how you looked at it, with outer beauty it was her genuine goodness and loyalty as well as her ability to see beyond the obvious that were her super powers. Jenna's capability in facing her fears when protecting those she loved was admirable and made her someone to easily find appealing.

The angst and simmering build up between Grim and Jenna's attraction was inescapable. With words unsaid this couple spoke volumes. Seeing Grim's tender side with Jenna and those close to him was enlightening and showed that his MC role did not define the man.

Of note Ms. Wilder does child portrayals extremely well. Always age appropriate, L. Wilder's young characters are often a good outlet for her bikers to show their humanity. Luna, Jenna's daughter, added a nice layer to this work and proved a great way to soften everyone she came in contact with.

Reader's can always expect the full package with L.Wilder, from her romance to her edgy suspense component to her immersion into her MC culture. This writer goes dark but always includes moments to give her audience the ability to understand and get behind her characters. Action and nail biting moments keep this author's stories brisk and the romance keeps them swoony. L.Wilder's Grim was a bumpy ride right into readers' hearts!

*I was given an advanced copy. All opinions expressed are my own.*

The Hate I Feel

By: Siobhan Davis

Release Date: April 2, 2024

Publisher: Siobhan Davis

Author Website: http://siobhandavis.co.uk/

5 Stars

The Hate I Feel, book seven in the Rydeville Elite series, is everything there is to love about Siobhan Davis books!

Zayn and Roman Becker were the long lost Anderson siblings that were just out of reach for most of this series. The Hate I Feel brings these brothers and all the intrigue that accompanied them to the forefront. Hidden for years from their siblings, revenge and anger take the older brother Zayn to extreme measures as years of manipulation and tragedy takes its toll on Zayn and Roman.

Siobhan Davis does not write pushovers and Emery Copeland was no exception. As one of the targets of Zayn's revenge, Emery's world was soon turned on its head. A kind person she was quickly made world weary, yet Emery was still capable of having empathy. The thing that stood out about this character was Emery was able to have clear boundaries and stand up for herself even while caring.

In many ways Zayn was blinded by his anger and overwhelmed by his sense of responsibility and loyalty to his brother Roman. It was not long before Zayn found himself in a predicament where he literally had to sacrifice his own potential happiness for his need for revenge. With Zayn taking ownership of his poor decisions set the tone for him being worthy of Emery and having the ability to see the bigger picture in his relationship with her and ultimately his brothers.

This was an intense read with lots of extreme emotions. The connection between Zayn and Emery was at times fiery, brutal, tender and the perfect catalyst for them finding the love they needed to feel.

This book tied up many loose ends in the Rydeville series as well as showing the incredible love and loyalty of the Anderson brothers. Once again Siobhan Davis leaves her readers with an exhilarating experience as this story builds up and leaves whiplash with the unforeseen twists and turns of her writing. Stones were not overturned but thrown clear into her next book in true Siobhan Davis fashion.

Siobhan Davis is always multiple steps ahead of her readers with consistent incredible surprise developments in her works. Her range of emotions is seemingly infinite and impossible not to get pulled into. The Hate I Fell brings readers what they least expect all wrapped up in another great Siobhan Davis story!

*I was given an advanced copy. All opinions expressed are my own.*
*This book is part of a series and it is recommended that the previous books in the series be read first.*

Oar Than Friends

By: Lulu Moore

Release Date: March 14, 2024

Publisher: Penguin

Author Website: https://www.lulumoorebooks.com/

4 Stars

In a stumbling instalove with more than a few obstacles Lulu Moore gives a sweet and meaningful romance in Oar Than Friends.

Blue Collar American rowing scholarship student Kate Astley was determined to fulfill her deceased brother's dream of going to med school at Cambridge at the risk of ignoring her own dreams. Aristocratic rowing champion Arthur 'Oz' Osbourne-Cloud was actively defying his father's wishes that he follow in his footsteps by planning to be a teacher instead of being a politician. 

Oz and Kate each had their fair share of personal burdens to deal with but what stood out was their bonding in their differences as well as their similarities. Yes there were hurdles and setbacks with this pair but they were always madly in love and heartbroken when apart, proving the depth of their feelings. This author had a good grasp of her characters' ages and the pressures they were under in all aspects of their lives. Amusing dialog and insightful poignant interactions kept this story steadily flowing. There was a spicy physical aspect to this relationship as well as a significant compassionate one.

This author's attention to detail in the world of competitive rowing without overdoing it was well done. All the secondary characters in Oar Than Friends added to this work and contributed to this story as a whole.

Lulu Moore excels in expressing the many layers of friendships and love. Her banter always stands out for memorable reads. Oar Than Friends captures young love and conquering the seemingly impossible for a fun story!

*I was given an advanced copy. All opinions expressed are my own. *

King of Nothing

By: Paula Dombrowiak

Release Date: March 12, 2024

Publisher: Paula Dombrowiak

Author Website: https://www.pauladombrowiak.com/

5 Stars

Compelling characters and intrigue set the stage for Paula Dombrowiak's King of Nothing, the first book in her Kingmaker Trilogy!

This first book in the Kingmaker Trilogy was full of secrets waiting to break through and Ms. Dombrowiak did a great job of building up the hints and anticipation. Darren Walker, the pleasure-seeking son of a Senator with a life of wealth and privilege, quickly had his world shaken up as he was thrust unexpectedly into a place he never thought he would be. High-end escort Evangeline Bowen was wise beyond her years and knowing more than Darren suspected held his future in her hands for a price. The dynamic between Darren and Evangeline was incredibly interesting filled with darkness and an odd compassion that translated well. Their budding relationship was charged by desire and hidden agendas keeping this work on its toes.

Paula Dombrowski is known for her daring writing as she creates out of box portrayals for some consuming stories. This author's emotions run deep and she does not worry about showing her character's blemishes. It is almost impossible not to dwell on this author's books long after the last page is turned. Paula Dombrowiak's King of Nothing brings a top-notch political suspense romance to her readers fueled with secrets and unorthodox heroes and heroines that will leave readers eagerly awaiting the books to follow!

*I was given an advanced copy. All opinions expressed are my own.*
*This is book one in a trilogy and needs to be read as part of three for the complete story*

My Dark Desire

By: Parker S. Huntington, L.J. Shen

Release Date: March 10, 2024

Publisher: PSH Publishing

Author Website: https://parkershuntington.com/ https://www.authorljshen.com/

4.5 Stars

Aloof and ruthless billionaire Zachary Sun had no room for emotion in his life. Resourceful and tenacious Farrow Ballentine was a force to be reckoned with. When this couple crossed paths their lives took a turn neither expected but both needed!

Zach and Farrow were complex as individuals and as a couple. Neither made any allowance for being true to who they were and recognized a like soul in the other. This pair carried a lot of fear and pain in spite of their contrary exteriors. The exchanges in this work were exceptionally sharp and witty, The vulnerable moments were notably poignant. There was an underlying sweetness to this couple's relationship despite their often brusque and sarcastic interactions. Zach and Farrow's genuine appreciation, understanding and compassion for each other did not diminish or change their tough core personality traits but added to them. The physical build up to this couple's attraction was explosive and their desire was dark and brooding with a constant feeling of unease keeping emotions high.

Once again Park S. Huntington and L.J. Shen bring out the best of their individual writing styles and create a unique synergy when writing together. Their affinity for darker heroes and resilient heroines stands out significantly in their works. My Dark Desire is not just about surviving but finding love and a way to live life to its fullest as only the writing power couple of Parker S. Hunting and L.J. Shen could pull off!

*I was given an advanced copy. All opinions expressed are my own.*
*While this book is part of a series it can be read as a stand alone.*

Perilous

By: Arianna Fraser

Release Date: February 22, 2024

Publisher: Arianna Fraser

Author Bio: https://www.amazon.com/stores/author/B07T1N49HN/about

5 Stars

Arianna Fraser's Perilous, the third book in her Ares Academy series, lives up to and more to the previous books in this series and will leave readers begging for more!

Mala Chandler spy master in training was one tough lady on the outside with a romantic heart underneath it all. Her ability to be independent and not dissolve into a fainting mess was great to see play out as she took on threats that came her way conquering them with her skill and smarts. Cormac MacTavish was as alpha swoony as it gets without devolving into a grunting caveman bringing substance to his relationship with Mala and the story as a whole. He was someone who you wanted to be on their good side and seemingly could handle the impossible with his exceptional expertise.

As couples go Mala and Cormac were well suited. Easily and believably bridging their age gap their mutual caring and respect went a long way in solidifying them as a well devised pair. The secret taboo aspect of their relationship heighted the excitement of their bond and will leave readers invested in them as a couple. Mala and Cormac's attraction simply put was fire with the perfect amount of kink and romance!

Arianna Fraser is unrepentant and fearless in revealing the wicked side of her portrayals embracing her antiheroes and their dark inclinations. Her heroines are feisty and smart, far from victims, as they go toe to toe with their antiheroes who are ruthless by nature but have the ability to love deeply. It cannot be emphasized enough what a great job this author does of overlapping her series books without making her audience feel like they are reading the same story again. Her ability to keep her readers on the edge of their seats always takes front and center. In this writer's works readers can always be assured that there is never a shortage of action and great chemistry between her characters. Arianna Fraser's Perilous is just the dose of adrenaline you never knew you needed!

*I was given an advanced copy. All opinions expressed are my own. *

*While this story can be read as a standalone, reading the previous book in this series would enhance the overall reading experience of this work.*

When The Stars Rise

By: Emery Rose

Release Date: February 8, 2024

Publisher: Emery Rose

Author Website: https://authoremeryrose.com/

4 Stars

Emery Rose's When the Stars Rise is the long awaited story of Noah McCallister and his childhood sweetheart Hayley St. James, both of whom grew up in The Lost Stars series and easily found a place in the hearts of its readers. The devotion this couple held for each other was incredible but it was not without an intense amount of dysfunction. This story saw the culmination of their dysfunction and the aftermath of long held secrets and painful memories coming to light.

Noah became an extreme athlete and not unlike his other family members was an adrenaline junky yet he took it a step further taking risks that many would never attempt or even survive from. Haley became a famous musician who was risk averse sheltering herself from harm in all its forms. Noah and Haley's opposition in how to approach their lifestyle choices did not coincide, setting the stage for them to make hard choices. This author was able to retain the sweetness and goodness of these characters even in their darkest moments showing the reasons why their love for each other was worth fighting for.

There was a lot of growing up in this work and the struggles that came with it. Pushing limits, forcing one's own expectations on others and realizing that love is sometimes not enough. Relationships take work and no matter how much love there is, other factors play a part in building a long lasting successful relationship. Noah and Haley's was an intense and complicated bond, their physical connection was fiery but their emotional tie was one of a kind and profound. This was not an easy read as it was full of hard issues and lots of angst but as is always the case with this author it was worth taking the journey.

Emery Rose's works are intimately acquainted with tragedies and their aftermaths. This author sees her portrayals' pain and brings them to places of acceptance and love with kindness and a new found toughness to endure and move on. Emery Rose's When the Stars Rise was a darkly beautiful story that proved that love is not always easy but worth the risk.

*I was given an advanced copy. All opinions expressed are my own. *

*While part of a series this work can be read as a stand-alone but for an overall enhanced reading experience reading the previous books in this series is recommended.

The Wildcat

By: Bella Matthews

Release Date: February 8, 2024

Publisher: Bella Matthews

Author Website: https://www.authorbellamatthews.com/

5 Stars

Bella Matthews gives readers another great story in The Wildcat book two of her Playing to Win series!

Making lemonade out of lemons was Hockey star Cross Wilder's major accomplishment when his life took a direction that was not ideal. Quiet and reserved, his love and loyalty to his family was his superpower. Beautiful and feisty with no shortage of baggage, Everly Sinclair settling down was not something that was in her future. 

From the start the attraction between Cross and Everly was spicy but what stood out was their sweet and vulnerable moments. Their interactions easily went from playful to intense, keeping their romance spirited and captivating as well as touching. Ms. Matthews did a wonderful job of portraying Cross' children adding a great layer to this work. All the extended friends and family of this couple gave this story depth without detracting from the main story.

Bella Matthews grows strong family and friendship ties in her works for wonderful stories. This author is fluent in fun and meaningful exchanges that can bring as many laughs as tears. Bella Matthews WIldcat is full of big hearts and big love for the win!

*I was given an advanced copy. All opinions expressed are my own. *

*While this story can be read as a standalone, reading the previous book in this series and the other series related to this series would enhance the overall reading experience of this work.*

My Anti-Hero

By: Tijan

Release Date: February 8, 2024

Publisher: Tijan

Author Website: http://www.tijansbooks.com/

4 Stars

Brett Broudou has been hanging around the sidelines of Tijan's Fallen Crest world for quite some time waiting for his turn to be center stage and My Anti-Hero pulled out all the stops in his story. Now an established football star who has distanced himself from the criminal side of his family he is at a point in his life where the football career that saved him is nearing its end. Billie Harm lives the life of a recluse. Except for her family and a few close friends Billie rarely ventures out into the world as she carries the burden of being the sole survivor of a serial killer.

Both Brett and BIllie were characters who maintained their integrity despite their dark past and less than ethical influences. It was no surprise that this couple was drawn to each other beyond their physical attraction. As this couple navigated their growing connection Tijan added many different  layers into their relationship. There was a great suspense element to this work that allowed Brett to fully come into his own as a hero and for BIllie to see her full potential both individually and as part of a family and romantic relationship.

My Anti-Hero demonstrated one of Tijan's strengths as an author, her intricate plotting and jaw dropping conclusions. This work built up well and clues led the way keeping readers intrigued with the direction this story was moving. Brett and Billie's flaws made them approachable and endearing even while highlighting their strengths. Wonderful interactions between this couple and their friends and family were nice highlights in this work
Tijan books are often filled with complex moral dilemmas and unexpected plot twists. Fierce loyalty rules the day and her characters no matter what side of the tracks they fall on have their fair share of hardships to overcome. Tijan's My Anti-Hero an unconventional love story that will keep readers caught up in it to the very end!

*I was given an advanced copy. All opinions expressed are my own. *

Viper

By: Aly Stiles

Release Date: October 3, 2017

Publisher: Aly Stiles

Author Website: http://www.alysonsantos.com/

5 Stars

Saying rockstar Wes Alton had a lot to overcome would be an understatement. Riddled with a past of poor judgments and actions, his comfort zone was self-sabotage. Yet in spite of his chronic screw ups his inner circle still felt his better qualities outweighed his bad, seeing him as his own worst enemy who was never beyond redemption. Hannah Drake was as impassioned as she was talented, struggling with her life choices from her chosen partner to her career, nothing seemed to fit who she was or wanted to be. 

Wes and Hannah were bound to be a force and explode. From their mutual attraction to their intuitive understanding of each other, this couple made sense. Even with all their broken parts this pair fit making each other stronger, ultimately being each other's biggest champion and knowing what the other needed to be their best. Great banter as well as touching heart to hearts laid it all for Wes and Hannah. There was a lot of history, and issues going on in this story and Ms. Stiles handled it all adeptly.

Aly Stiles shows an astonishing amount of insight, pain, darkness and beauty in her writing. Her ability to see more and express it in characters many would write off is an uncommon ability. This author's love of the underdog and unseen gives hope and a clear message to not give up that easily translates from fiction to her audience personally. Tackling hard subject matter is one of her strengths. Aly Stiles' Viper strikes hard and is a story that readers will not only remember but embrace.

*I was given an advanced copy. All opinions expressed are my own.*
*While this work can be read as a stand alone reading the previous books in this series would enhance readers overall experience.*

Reeve

By: Siobhan Davis

Release Date: December 30, 2023

Publisher: Siobhan Davis

Author Website: http://siobhandavis.co.uk/

5 Stars

Siobhan Davis gives a sensitive and insightful look into the thoughts and actions of one of her most troubled and misunderstood characters in her All of Me series in Reeve.

Siobhan Davis breathed new life into a fabulous series as she gave a voice to Reeve Lancaster taking him out of the villain zone and showing his humanity. This author did not gloss over or make excuses for Reeve's decisions and actions but in giving readers an understanding of them took him from coming off as completely cruel and selfish to human and imperfect with a caring heart behind it all.

Reeve's vulnerability was heartbreaking and his neglect, manipulation and abuse from others was crushing to watch play out. His love story with Vivien was true and his missteps in their relationship were a sad combination of immaturity and a misguided understanding of appropriate behavior because while he did have good influences he had just as many bad influences.

In the end Reeve was an emotional tear inducing story that few would be able to walk away from unaffected and would most likely have a new perspective on a great series. Reeve was a beautifully complex layer to the All of Me series that readers will not even know how integral it is to the whole series until they read it!

*I was given an advanced copy. All opinions expressed are my own.*
*This book should not be read as a stand alone.*

The Shake Off

By: Lulu Moore

Release Date: December 20, 2023

Publisher: Lulu Moore

Author Website: https://www.lulumoorebooks.com/

5 Stars

In The Shake Off, book two in The New York Lions series, Lulu Moore takes love to the playoffs for a great read!

Ace Watson, star pitcher with enough charm and talent to fill a stadium. Payton Lopez, smart, gorgeous and unattainable. When this pair meets their worlds get thrown off axis and not in a good way as their first encounter sets Ace off on a bad luck streak that could threaten his promising career. With a little bit of negotiating and a large learning curve Ace and Payton set things back in order but their worlds as they knew them change irrevocably.

This couple was a mix of simple and complicated. Their attraction was raw and fiery at a basic level but their emotional attraction was one filled with layers that neither had explored until each other. Relationships were a new territory for Payton and Ace both having managed previously to avoid commitment and focus on their physical needs with no strings. The interactions between this couple were charming and easy to get caught up in. Ms. Moore did a great job of sneaking in the feelings with this pair and keeping their interest in each other growing rather than waning.

Lulu Moore does a wonderful job of combining wit and earnest feelings. All of her relationships from friendships to romantic are authentic and deep rooted in love and loyalty giving her a devoted reader base. One of the hardest things an author can do is create not just characters that are interesting but ones that are impossible not to be emotionally invested in and Lulu Moore does that regularly. Of note if any baseball team was going to give my beloved Mets a run for their money it would be The New York Lions! The Shake Off is the perfect book to fall in love with as you close out 2023!

*I was given an advanced copy. All opinions expressed are my own. *
*While part of a series this book can be read as a stand alone.*

The Keeper

By: Bella Matthews

Release Date: December 6, 2023

Publisher: Bella Matthews

Author Website: https://www.authorbellamatthews.com/

5 Stars

Bella Matthews managed to glide into her next generation while maintaining its roots with her previous Kingston's books even while setting a fresh tone for her new Playing to Win series in The Keeper for a captivating intro read!

Easton Hayes and Madeline "Lindy" Kingston had a past connection built on family, love and a shared tragedy that haunted them in a way that only they could understand. Bella Matthews came into this story handling the tricky matter of two people initially at the wrong place in life to act on their love now at the perfect place to do so and did a wonderful job.

Star hockey goalie Easton Hayes was broody, honorable and focused with a loyalty that stood out in his devotion to his family and to Lindy. When the timing was right for Easton to declare his love for Lindy he made his move and in one swooping moment putting their long standing platonic status on rocky ground thanks to a Vegas wedding. Lindy was at a crossroads in her life now that she had retired from competitive ice-skating. When Easton Hayes, her seemingly life long crush declared his love for her in a sudden and dramatic fashion it took everything in Lindy not to collapse under the implications of getting what she had always wanted.

This pair was so in tune with each other that even when they were at an impasse on how to move forward with their impulsive and life-defining decision to take their love to the next level, their chemistry was indisputable. The bond they had was so much more than superficial and this author showed that over and over throughout this work proving Easton and Lindy were inevitable. The interactions between this couple both with each other and their friends and family were extremely well done. The ups and downs in this story kept it lively and interesting to the very end.

Bella Matthews is an author who seems to effortlessly include her vast Kingston universe in each of her stories without overtaking the story at hand with past histories, which is no small feat. This author has a real understanding of her characters that gives them all very distinctive voices creating an intimacy with her readers. The Keeper launches off a new series with a great start and the promise of more first-rate stories!

*I was given an advanced copy. All opinions expressed are my own. *