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. *

My Darling Bride

By: Ilsa Madden Mills

Release Date: December 5, 2023

Publisher: Montlake

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

5 Stars

From the sweet play on names in the title of this work to the mayhem of this couple's fated love My Darling Bride was everything readers have come to love about Ilsa Madden-Mills books!

Football star Graham Harlan achieved his greatest play on the field when he defied death in a play gone awry. Questioning the very reason for getting up everyday for a good portion of his life Graham's career end loomed large. Emmaline "Emmy" Darling was a breath of fresh air with the world on her shoulders. For all the responsibility she carried for her family her love life was the complete opposite with disastrous romantic choices featuring heavily.

When fate crashed Graham and Emmy into each other in their personal versions of great escapes the comedy of errors began with this pair resulting in a fake relationship with as many laughs as tears. This couple had a great push and pull that took them all over the emotional gamut. Pretty much opposites, Graham was protective, reserved and suspicious while Emmy reached for happy, was open and embracing. Where things started to gel with this couple was their shared traits of loyalty, kindness and the pain they carried from past trauma. Both Graham and Emmy were two characters who will easily capture readers' interest and hearts.

Ms. Madden Mills easily captured this couple's chemistry from the start with their witty banter and notable attraction. This eccentric pair made for some very entertaining encounters that were easily played off of the poignant ones. When Graham and Emmy's potential for having feelings for each other became obvious and could no longer be ignored as fake, the angst and vulnerability took over for some serious emotional struggles. This author excels in standout secondary cast. Every one of them should take a bow and contributed greatly to Graham and Emmy's story as a whole.

Ilsa Madden-Mills has perfected the art of creating likeable and relatable portrayals. This writer's character exchanges are always spot on and never irrelevant. Her signature fated love gives glimmers of hope that there is someone out there for everyone. My Darling Bride is the wedding of the year and a great read

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

Dirty Crazy Bad The Complete Collection

By: Siobhan Davis

Release Date: November 15, 2023

Publisher: Siobhan Davis

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

5 Stars

Defying the odds Siobhan Davis takes her readers to a whole other level of over the top in Dirty Crazy Bad for an unforgettable read!

Siobhan Davis excels in creating heroines who are not only gorgeous but equipt to take on any obstacle thrown their way and Ashley Shaw was no exception. Ashley owned her story, throwing down with and beating back her enemies. This character made her love interests work for her love and when they connected they did not just steam up the pages they exploded on them with the intensity of their heat. This was one wild story with Ms.Davis' signature unexpected jaw dropping revelations busting out everywhere it went.

Siobhan Davis delivers exactly what her title Dirty Crazy Bad says wrapped up in secrets galore!

*I was given an advanced copy. All opinions expressed are my own.*
*This story ends with a cliffhanger*

Book 2
Just when you thought things couldn't get any more twisty and kinky Siobhan Davis rockets this story through the stratosphere.

The heroine of this work, Ashley Shaw, at the end of Dirty Crazy Bad book one was left trying to wrap her head around some serious revelations as well as being in a position where multiple characters were reliant on her thinking on her feet and holding their fate in her hands. With an unresolved love life and personal circumstances rife with danger Ashley was proven to be more than capable of stepping up and owning her situation. The intrigue and plotting in this work was incredible and impossible not to be caught up in. Each of Ashley's love interests added a nice layer and complimented her. The attraction level in this book was off the charts and Ms. Davis brought on the heat with no inhibitions.

Siobhan Davis is a writer that shows versatility, loves a good secret(s) and keeps her audience's adrenaline going for unpredictable sensuous adventures. Her ability to keep her readers guessing and create viable unconventional characters is pure genius. Ms. Davis' villains are next level, fully in maniacal territory, providing some cutting edge twist but it is her heroes and heroines who shine with their strength and grit. Dirty Crazy Bad book two was just that and readers will revel in it!

*I was given an advanced copy. All opinions expressed are my own.*
*This story is in two parts and readers should read book one prior to this work*

Dr. Fake Fiancé

By: Louise Bay

Release Date: November 9, 2023

Publisher: Louise Bay

Author Website: https://louisebay.com

5 Stars

Louise Bay once again endangers everyone's hearts with another Cove to get giddy over in Dr. Fake Fiancé!

Dr. Beau Cove lived an adventure filled commitment free life yet it was no longer working for him, the problem was he was not sure what would work for him. Pop superstar Vivian Cross had just broken up with her long time boyfriend/fiancé and was trying to escape the scandal. Looking to find anonymity she headed to London to work on her music and find the answers to what would make her happy. When Beau and Vivian met as anonymous strangers in a coffee shop sparks flew and the answer to both their life questions soon took root in the most unexpected way.

Beau upped the ante on irresistible Cove's, making it impossible to pick a favorite! Charming, gregarious, seductive and serious when the moment called for it, he is just what every reader wants in a romance hero. Vivian Cross was well suited to Beau with her strength and kindness. Her ability to be vulnerable without being clingy and dependent was nicely done by this author. The friendship that developed between Beau and Vivian was key to their relationship. Yes they had a strong physical draw but it was the ease they felt with each other and the organic companionship that they had that assured that their interest in each other had the ability to be more than superficial. Their physical attraction was strong from the start but their mental attraction was what fueled this story.

Louise Bay has a wonderful grasp of her characters from their external personas to their internal struggles. This author has a way of growing a strong support community of family and friends that is special and captivating for her audience. Dr. Fake Fiancé will leave readers with real smiles and eager for the next Cove Dr. to swoon over!

*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.*

Haven

By: Bella Matthews

Release Date: October 5 2023

Publisher: Bella Matthews

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

4 Stars

Bella Matthews ends her Defiant Kings series with a memorable finale and no shortage of angst and heartache in Haven!

When upcoming football star Brandon and Olympic ice-skating hopeful Ashlyn meet at a college party they both felt a connection that they knew was not ordinary. Brandon carried the weight of his tragic childhood on his shoulders, not trusting easily or letting people close. It was his loyalty and dedication to those he loved that set him apart as a good person. Ashlyn carried secrets and a dark past with few friends and little resources to fall back on. Her kind heart and determination were admirable and gave her a quiet strength.

This couple's capacity for love was as immense as their hesitancy to trust and let people get close to them. When Brandon and Ashlyn were reunited after 15 years of loving each other at a distance it was no surprise to see the intensity of their passion for each other. This was not a romance that needed nurturing as it had been brewing for years. Their sweet and spicy interactions kept the pages lively and a well-established secondary cast added a wonderful layer to this story. An intriguing suspense component took this story to the next level and made for an interesting and unexpected revelation!

Bella Matthews does a great job of joining her characters in comradery and loyalty. Her ability to offset serious moments with humor without undermining the issue at hand stands out as a real skill. Bella Matthews' Haven was a lovely way to say goodbye to a beloved series and usher her next generation of characters in!

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

*This book is part of expansive interconnected series and while it can be read as a stand alone, reading the previous books in these series would enhance the overall reading experience.*

Unholy Vows

By: Mila Kane

Release Date: November 8, 2023

Publisher: Mila Kane

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

5 Stars

Dark and edgy with liberal amounts of spice Mila Kane's Unholy Vows was hard to put down!

There was a reason Renato "Ren" De Sanctis was the head of the Atlantic City Mafia. Shrewd and calculating with the ability to cut off his emotions he was a man to be feared and who took charge. Nursing student Charlotte "Charlie" Burke was devoted to her detriment as she took on the role of parent to her little sister. Always putting her needs on the back burner her perseverance and determination stood out as well as her courage. 

One of the things that quickly came to the forefront in Ren and Charlie's relationship was Ren's ability to see Charlie standing up to him not as defiance but as something positive, an attribute to be admired. Ren quickly honed in on who Charlie was at her core rather than what her actions were at their face value giving their interactions a complicated layer. A man in Ren's position could have easily torn Charlie down but instead he built her up even as he set up the parameters of their relationship. This author did a good job of putting some of the power in Ren and Charlie's relationship in Charlie's hands, making Charlie Ren's weakness even while she became his strength. There was never a doubt of this pair's attraction but real feelings changed the dynamic in this work to one that felt authentic.

This story moved quickly and was well plotted out. There was a nice suspense and danger element that will keep readers on edge even while wrapped up in Ren and Charlie's love story. The supporting cast added depth to this work.

Mila Kane comfortably explores the darker side of her portrayals even while finding ways to make them redeemable in her reader’s eyes. This author does well with inserting secondary storylines into her works that merge effortlessly without taking over her main story. Mila Kane's Unholy Vows was a fast paced and gritty story that will hold readers attention to the last page!

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

Watch Your Mouth

By: Kandi Steiner

Release Date: October 27, 2023

Publisher: Kandi Steiner

Author Website: https://kandisteiner.com/

5 Stars

Kandi Steiner's Watch Your Mouth had a lot going on from an age gap to opposites attract to the angst-inducing brother's best friend scenario with a road trip thrown in, yet this author made it work for a great story that ultimately brought out the best in everyone.

When hockey defenseman Jaxson Brittain met his teammate and best friend's little sister Grace Tanev their attraction was instant and magnetic even while Jaxson knew that no matter how much he was drawn to Grace they could never pursue their attraction. Jaxson was serious and regimented, a loyal and reliable friend with lots of hidden layers. Grace was a free spirit who wore her heart on her sleeve and had not an ounce of pretense in her, what you saw was what you got.

This couple's dynamic was captivating from the start. Jaxson and Grace's ability to see past each other's exteriors and find their self worth’s in the process added a nice depth to this story. This story got real but was eased into the harder moments with a levity and charm that allowed the characters to see the light in their darkness, giving them a chance to experience a real bond before dealing with larger more difficult issues. There was a lot of spicy chemistry that felt authentic and kept this story heated. The comradery between Jaxson and Grace was engaging and Ms. Steiner did an exceptional job with this couple's exchanges.

Without a doubt you can expect to have lots of emotional moments in a Kandi Steiner work. Her character's layers are vast and absorbing leaving readers with lots to dig through and explore. Her portrayals are memorable and relatable as they navigate their personal issues that show not only their good traits but their flaws in bold sweeping moments. Watch Your Mouth could easily be called watch your heart as readers fall in love with Kandi Steiner's next book in her Kings of the Ice series!

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

Break Your Little Heart

By: Charleigh Rose

Release Date: October 23, 2023

Publisher: Charleigh Rose

Author Website: https://authorcharleighrose.com/

4 Stars

Holden Ames and Valentina "Valen" Solorio had been on each other's dislike list for quite some time. Both were born into a life of privilege but had a deficit of love that caused them to wrestle with wanting more yet did everything they could to not have more love. Even after a series of disastrous encounters cemented their distaste for each other their intense physical attraction only grew stronger. When the two finally capitulated to their attraction it only served to further fire the flames of it for some real spicy encounters. While the heat between this couple was scorching, the real attraction between them lay in their exchanges which took them to a whole other level of interesting. There was much more to these two than pretty faces getting it on and this author rose to the occasion. Some of the best moments in this work was the toe to toe dynamic between this couple.

Charleigh Rose jumped right into this couple’s energy from the start. Consistently snarky and steamy with underlying genuine emotions this writer did a great job of bringing a pair to the pages that readers would be intrigued by. Ms. Rose had a good take on her character's place in life, nailing their maturity levels or in some cases their lack of maturity, for some pivotal moments. Holden and Valen wore their insecurities like suits of armor trying to keep real emotions as far from their hearts as they could. This author did a very good job of exploring the question of what happens when you meet someone worth letting your guard down for and worth risking your heart. With chemistry that was combustible and exchanges that were witty and well played out this story kept a quick pace. An interesting underlying overarching plot added a nice layer to this story.

Edgy in your face heroes where rules roll off their backs and pleasing others is the last thing on their mind is Charleigh Rose's writing superpower. This author's ease at going from witty to emotional exchanges at a moment's notice is a real skill. Break Your Little Heart was worth the wait and will appeal to old and new readers of this author alike!

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

Pine River

By: Tijan

Release Date: October 24, 2023

Publisher: Tijan

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

5 Stars

Hate at first sight soon showed that there is a very thin line between love and hate in Tijan's Pine River for an intensely captivating read!

Ramsay Williams had a past best left behind yet it had a way of rearing its ugly head no matter where she went. Keeping to herself, other than her family, her goal was to keep it that way showing a tough aloof exterior hoping to stave off unwanted attention. Ramsay was a magnetic character with her outer beauty and intriguing persona, but it was her inner beauty and strength that kept people reaching for more from her. Scout Raiden was the guy that everyone wanted to be or be with. He was the perfect combination of intimidation and admiration. Surrounded by people he stood alone other than a chosen few. His tough exterior and fierce loyalty made him a force to be reckoned with and his kind heart made him someone worthy of love.

The tension of Ramsay and Scout's attraction leapt out of this work. They were two people who carried dark pasts and secrets. Based on who Ramsey and Scout were at their emotional core it came as no surprise that they were drawn to each other and gave unsolicited loyalty despite their initial disdain. As their feelings evolved their physical attraction intensified and their fear of commitment could not withstand the onslaught of emotions that they felt for each other. This was a relationship that was complicated with warring feelings and desires that opposed their previous coping strategies. Both Ramsay and Scout were fighters either in a physical or figurative way.

A robust secondary cast rounded out this work and will pique reader’s interest in their stories. A well-devised subplot aided in keeping this story moving quickly. Memorable exchanges stood out in this book and highlighted this author's distinctive writing voice. Of note Tijan's use of exceptional cover art that personifies her works and serves as an introduction to her stories continued with Pine River.

Regardless of the setting, when you pick up a Tijan book you know you are reading this author. Intensity and intuitiveness are two traits synonymous with Tijan. Something that always stands out with this writer is how she hones in on common issues that transcend class and gender differences. Tijan's ability to blur the lines of distinction and focus on universal feelings is remarkable and shines through in the heartfelt bonds of friendship she writes about, often built upon angst and tragedy. This author's books are always meaningful, full of depth and sensitively thought out, she is never afraid to deal with difficult subject matter. Pine River is everything and more readers have come to expect from Tijan and destined to be a bookshelf favorite!

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

The Moon and Back

By: Ginger Scott

Release Date: October 5, 2023

Publisher: Little Miss Write, LLC

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

5 Stars

The Moon and Back showcases Ginger Scott at her very best in a moving romance that will touch readers hearts!

Johnny Bishop was overflowing with potential from his ability in football to music yet his one area to surpass them all was his potential to love. This character broke hearts with his gentle tortured soul from the moment he was introduced. Brynn Fisher sat on the fringe waiting to break through but hesitant to reach her full capability. Full of hope and wishes her greatest achievement was her undying love and loyal heart. Johnny and Brynn's path was not an easy one and their bond was pure in their genuine attraction to each other from their shy awkward initial draw to their all encompassing love.

This writer gave readers a work about true love that was about forgiveness, acceptance and caring, reaching beyond romance and showing friendship at its worst and best but always enduring. As this story progressed and this couple's relationship matured, built on a love that ultimately could withstand any obstacles, their fate proved that they had their work cut out for them. Johnny and Brynne's love story despite all its complications was one that neither could walk away from and had many memorable moments beautifully depicted by Ms. Scott.

Conflict and angst are definitely in Ginger Scott's wheelhouse as time and time again she brings them to the forefront for emotional stories. This author's understanding of life's more difficult challenges is always shown with insight and grace. A beautiful story, The Moon and Back sits right at the top of 2023's unforgettable reads!

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

Fall Into You

By: J.T. Geissinger

Release Date: September 28, 2023

Publisher: J.T. Geissinger Inc.

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

5 Stars

J.T. Geissinger takes a one-night stand and turns it into a mutually all-encompassing obsession in Fall Into You for a captivating read!

Billionaire CFO Cole McCord was one hot tortured hero with a penchant for obsessing. Tall, dark and handsome there was an emphasis on the dark as he was cloaked in it wearing his heart on his sleeve for one woman as his only accessory. This guy was a walking mystery! If any woman gave as good as she got it was Shay Sanders and at times she even had one up on the giving. This woman was tough and feisty all wrapped up in gorgeous, loyal and smart.

Cole and Shay were extremely well devised characters standing out on their own or as a couple, either way they were intriguing. This author did a great job of presenting an underlying subplot of questionable actions that kept readers sitting on a very precarious fence of morality right along with Cole and Shay.

As couple dynamics go Cole and Shay were electric. Their energy together was formidable and the push and pull interactions between them kept this story moving quickly. Not only was Cole and Shay's chemistry intense, it sizzled. What really stood out in this work was this pair's next level banter, their exchanges were as mesmerizing as they were memorable! The unpredictable turns in this story were a heady combination of dizzying and exhilarating!

If stories that make you think and question are your thing, look no further than J.T. Geissinger where nothing is black and white! This writer excels in unique love stories with unexpected twists. Being complacent when reading this author is a dangerous position and that makes for an exciting book experience that keeps her readers coming back for more. Morally gray never looked as appealing as it does in J.T. Geissinger's Fall Into You, an absolute great read!

*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 standalone.*

The One I Want

By: Siobhan Davis

Release Date: July 31, 2023

Publisher: Siobhan Davis

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

5 Stars

The One I Want takes readers on an epic journey to love in true Siobhan Davis angst driven fashion!

Torn between two loves, even while learning to love herself, Stevie Colson had a steep learning curve on the way to her happily ever after. This work was tragic even while it was inspiring. Filled with moments of self-sacrifice and divided loyalties, emotions ran rampant and extreme in this story. As beautiful as Stevie was, her ambition and drive were just as appealing making it easy for readers to see her attraction to others. Her relationships with Garrick and Beck were wildly different but each served as a catalyst to her finding a mature and fulfilling love and were no less significant.

This was a compelling love triangle that will keep readers guessing until the very last page as Stevie grapples with conflicting emotions. Nothing was easy in this story or without painful lessons, losses and revelations. This author never leaves readers faced with an ambivalent end as she provides detailed depictions that make her story conclusions firm and clear. Hard choices and extreme consequences loaded with heartbreak paved the way for Stevie in this work showing that there is no right or wrong answer or conclusion for fated destinies. From start to finish excruciating choices plagued Stevie making her see the people in her life for who they were and where they were meant to be in her life.

Siobhan Davis is a complex writer. She is capable of diverse storylines and emotions even while maintaining her core unique writing voice. With scenarios that are never predictable and always thoughtful it is impossible not to be pulled into her works. Known for her volatile plot twist Ms. Davis is unmatched in this skill set yet another area that does not always come to the forefront but is exceptional with this writer is her villains. Not only does she devise extraordinary heroes/heroines she takes villainy to a whole new level of evil and depraved. The thing about Siobhan Davis is that each of her books shows her readers a whole different side of her seemingly endless talent and The One I Want does just that for an unforgettable emotional read!

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

Title: I Could Never

Author: Penelope Ward

Genre: Standalone Contemporary Romance

Tropes: Forbidden Romance/Enemies to Lovers

Cover Design: Letitia Hasser, RBA Designs

Photographer: Anders Kavin

Release Date: August 21, 2023

BLURB

From New York Times bestselling author Penelope Ward comes a new forbidden, enemies-to-lovers story…

It all started with an unexpected phone call.

Two years after my fiancé passed away in an accident, his father died suddenly, leaving Brad’s adult, special-needs brother with no one to care for him.

The next thing I knew, I was on a cross-country drive to New Hampshire where I’d be moving in to look after Scottie until I could get him into a group home.

The last thing I ever expected?

I wouldn’t be taking care of him alone.

Josh Mathers, my fiance’s best friend—who also happened to be my sworn enemy—insisted he was the better person for the job. He told me to go back to California, and I told him where he could stick that demand.

Our disdain for each other wasn’t anything new. It dated back to a text I’d accidentally read years ago.

We hated each other. But we both loved Scottie, so neither of us budged.

Now we were living together in a tiny house—with one available bedroom. Thank goodness it was only temporary.

Over time, I realized the broody jerk I thought I knew was different than I’d imagined.

I found myself slowly growing attached to someone I once considered the enemy…and growing attracted to him.

Sure, both of us were guilt-ridden over Brad. We were also two grown people with pent-up frustration toward one another—stuck in a cabin in the woods.

But this was Josh.

I could never.

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Penelope Ward is a New York Times, USA Today and #1 Wall Street Journal bestselling author of contemporary romance.

She grew up in Boston with five older brothers and spent most of her twenties as a television news anchor. Penelope resides in Rhode Island with her husband, son, and beautiful daughter with autism.

With over two million books sold, she is a 21-time New York Times bestseller and the author of over twenty novels. Her books have been translated into over a dozen languages and can be found in bookstores around the world.

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