Tempting

By: Bella Matthews

Release Date: August 8, 2024

Publisher: Bella Matthews

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

5 Stars

Bella Matthews' wonderful community of family, friends and lovers shines in Tempting, the first book in her Red Lips and White Lies series!

Both Kenzie Hayes and Nixon Sinclair were hyper focused on their careers to the exclusion of meaningful personal relationships, so when they suddenly realized their mutual attraction was "tempting" enough to explore their rapidly growing feelings it took them both by surprise. Kenzie's careful probe into her feelings was the opposite of Nixon's head on embracing of his own. This pairs' sweet and steamy introduction into a relationship was full of emotional ups and downs but their leaps of faith into trust territory was the secret to this couple's success. With fabulous dialog and the good-natured meddling of their friends and family this book was spirited and never dull.

There is a warmth and reader inclusiveness to Bella Matthews' writing that makes reading her books so special. Her expertise at family and friend bonds only strengthens as her interconnected books expand. Each one of her books is memorable and endearing. Bella Matthews' Tempting was the perfect start to a new series!

*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 the other series related to this series would enhance the overall reading experience of this work.*

The Bonus

By: T L Swan

Release Date: August 13, 2024

Publisher: T L Swan

Author Website: https://tlswanauthor.com/

5 Stars

T L Swan managed to put together the perfect mix of comedic and dramatic in The Bonus for a story that will have her readers going from laughing to crying at the turn of a page!

Whether it was in the boardroom or the bedroom billionaire Gabriel Ferrara had no competition. With a winning combination of dominant, commanding, hot and funny Gabriel saturated the pages with his sarcastic charm and confident demeanor. It was virtually impossible not to swoon at Gabriel's self-assured swagger! Grace Porter was wonderfully capable with a dash of admitted vulnerability that made her that much more lovable. Her ability to out snark anyone who chose to confront her was awesome and gave this story a lively edge.

Grace was a woman able to face anything life threw at her and in this case it was Gabriel Ferrera and boy was it fun to watch their dynamic play out! What started out as a seemingly one-sided attraction on Grace's part exploded when the attraction was in fact reciprocated by Gabriel. This couple was on fire and there was no doubt at the end that they were made for each other. With a great variety of emotions and dialog that was as witty as it was meaningful this pair captured their audience from the start. There was some well-done plot acrobatics that kept this story from bottoming out and will keep readers anticipating this couple's every move.

T L Swan captures her audience with her characters strengths as well as their flaws with ease and determination. Her writing is engaging and pretty much impossible to walk away from. The skill this author has in keeping readers engaged when her characters do things that are not in alignment with ideal romance is impressive. Smart and full of memorable moments The Bonus is all about escaping into a great read!

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

The Boss + The Maid = Chemistry

By: Louise Bay

Release Date: August 8, 2024

Publisher: Louise Bay

Author Website: https://louisebay.com

5 Stars

Louise Bay ushers in a whole new group of characters to love in The Boss + The Maid = Chemistry for a steamy fun read and start to a new series!

Bennett Fordham operated as simmering reserved. His MO was to keep everyone at a distance to the extreme except for a few who had proven their loyalty to him. Armed with a dry sarcastic wit and a billion in the bank Bennett knew his worth and kept his guard up.

Efa was a walking dream infused with unfiltered, irresistible charm. Things that mattered to most people rolled off Efa’s back and her intuitive ability to see past people's exterior for who they were versus how they appeared kept her on top of her game.

This couple lit up the pages with a memorable connection. Their attraction was HOT and kept the pages fiery. Entertaining dialog made this story move quickly. Trust issues were a big part of this couple's dynamic creating more than a few angsty interactions. The supporting cast in this story was a great addition to this work.

Louise Bay writes some of the best extended family and friend groups around. The camaraderie she builds is always solid and an integral part of her fictional communities. The Boss + The Maid = Chemistry starts off with a bang and keeps the explosions coming for a great read!

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

Frisco

By: Tijan

Release Date: July 23, 2024

Publisher: Tijan

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

5 Stars

Red Demons MC VP Shane "Ghost" King was dark and pragmatic with a gentle side that he could shield in order to function in the life he had chosen. The one thing that he did not cut off was his long-standing love for Kalista "Kali" Michaels. Kali was tough but not hardened by her life experiences. Her reactions to the world of the Red Demons were raw and deep reaching her humanity.

The dynamic between Shane and Kali was understated and simmering until it wasn't. This pair's attraction had a life of its own and was impossible to not be drawn into. Their intuitive understanding of each and their willingness to trust and compromise where they were both concerned made this couple compelling and likeable. This relationship was inevitable and perfect in all its imperfections.

There was a great secondary cast fleshing out this work that was as entertaining as they were remarkable. From Kali's Dad, to Kali's besties and her sister to the Red Demon members they enhanced all the interactions they were involved in. The suspense subplot to this story was strong and held up throughout this work.

When you step into a Tijan book it is like entering a world uniquely its own. No one's writing voice is like Tijan's, making her works a special experience that you can only find in her books. The way this author manages to interconnect her characters is always a treat for longtime readers and shares a whole group of books to explore to new readers. There is a depth to her portrayals that easily resonates with her audience. As Tijan dips her pen into the MC world with Frisco readers will see a side of MC romance they never knew they were missing!

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

The Baller

By: Lulu Moore

Release Date: July 16, 2004

Publisher: Lulu Moore

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

5 Stars

The Baller by Lulu Moore added another hunky hero to her New York Lion's roster for an engaging and fun read!

Lux Weston's career was on fire and it seemed like the world was his for the taking, the only thing missing was the perfect woman to share it with. Smart, handsome and devoted to his friends and family Lux was a catch. As the daughter of the President of the United States Radley Andrews was no longer in control of her life, her privacy and say in it was a thing of the past. Sensitive and gun shy where people were concerned Radley had more strength than she knew.

When Radley became the subject of a scandal she lost all faith and trust in others only to find herself irresistibly drawn to Lux Weston. As the relationship between Radley and Lux progressed it was lovely to see the support and honesty they gave each other. This story was driven as much by their friendship as it was by their romance. With wit and caring this author brought out the best in her characters and helped them conquer not only Radley's fears but capture their hearts.

Lulu Moore writes great friendships that not only withstand the test of time but any and all hurdles thrown at them. Lively dialog and smart interactions keep this author's audience engaged and invested in her works. Lulu Moore's The Baller will give readers all the feels for a sweet read!

*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.*

Oh, You’re So Cold

By: Saffron A. Kent

Release Date: June 28, 2024

Publisher: Purple Prose Press LLC

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

5 Stars

When eighteen-year-old wild and reckless Isadora Holmes set her sights on Stellan Thorne her determination knew no limits. Isadora was full of passion and strength of character that did not fade even when her family condemned her for being a free spirit. 

Externally cold and aloof, bordering on cruel Stellan Thorne was internally a hot mess of emotions and longing for the girl who wore her heart for him on her sleeve. Struggling with misplaced guilt and self hate Stellan was a portrayal who it was hard to not feel compassion for as his little kindnesses gave away the true nature he tried to hide.

This match was fiery and brimming with a pent up attraction that when unleashed scorched not only this couple but readers alike. Ms. Kent did a great job of creating tension and conflict within this story for an intense read. Her character interactions were well done with strong feelings conveyed easily by this writer.

Saffron Kent has an amazing grasp on morally grey desire. Her portrayals walk a fine line from what is acceptable for their unique dynamic and what is socially acceptable. Oh, You're So Cold finds well deserved love for yet another fabulous Thorne!

*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 Sweet Spot

By: Bella Matthews

Release Date: June 20, 2024

Publisher: Bella Matthews

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

5 Stars

The Sweet Spot book four in Bella Matthews’ Playing to Win could just as easily be called hitting the spot for a great read!

Brynlee St. James was small and mighty, taking on the role of the glue of her generation's friend and family group. Loving and kind it was hard not to be taken in by this character. Deacon Kane was equally as appealing as Brynlee with a positive outlook even in the most discouraging circumstances he was a man others could depend on and look up to as well as a man a woman could fall in love with. The dynamic between Brynlee and Deacon was long standing and electric. Their exchanges were genuine and their heat was scorching. This couple was meant to be!

A secret love taboo feel gave this story a sweet but edgy feel as readers were wrapped up in the bubble of Brynlee and Deacon's attraction. The feeling of family and community that Ms. Matthews has built up in her interconnected book world was in peak form as this book was filled with antics, inside jokes and loving camaraderie. The angst of unknown outcomes, growing pains and letting go were accompanied by the unconditional support and love that make reading a Bella Matthews book so special.

Reading a Bella Matthews book is like being embraced by a big warm hug. This author's ability to capture the intimacy of friends and family is unrivaled and leaves a lasting impression on anyone who reads her books. Great exchanges move her works quickly with both tears and laughter. Emotional and loving and all the things that define Bella Matthews' books join together for a wonderful read in The Sweet Spot!

*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.*

From Me to You

By: Emberlynn Raine

Release Date: June 18, 2024

Publisher: Emberlynn Raine

Author Website: https://emberlynnraine.my.canva.site/

4 Star

Emberlynn Raine brings intense and heartfelt emotions in From Me to You for a dramatic and memorable story!

A love that felt so deep it seemed to be one connected at a higher level and meant to be, defined the romance of Jay and Evy. From the start this couple was drawn to each other with their attraction starting off as sweet and pure and building up to tainted and combustible The second half of this work took on a faster pace throwing emotional grenades at a rapid rate. The lack of maturity of Jay and Evy played a big part in all of their miscommunications and rose tinted love. One of the things that stood out in this story was the band dynamic, this author did a great job of subtly establishing it throughout this work without distracting from the love story of Jay and Evy.

Emberlynn Raine makes a solid debut and shows a lot of potential in From Me to You. This author's writing was at times rough around the edges but strong plotting made up for this. The angst and heartbreak of her portrayals translated well and this writer showed that she had a good handle on her characters emotions. Emberlynn Raine clearly loves writing and that carries over to her audience. From Me to You will leave readers eager to find out the fate of Evy and Jay's love in the next book!

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

*This work ends on a cliffhanger.*

Cloak of the Vampire

By: Sapir A. Englard

Release Date: June 18, 2024

Publisher: Montlake

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

4 Star

Aileen Henderson was an extremely intriguing character. Her introduction was understated and built up to unexpected and powerful dynamics. Aileen's fierceness came in many forms from advocating for her friends to confronting the unwanted situation she found herself in. Ms. Englard artfully layered this character's revelations keeping her readers on edge, escalating this story incrementally for an explosive end to this book and anticipated beginning to the next book in this series.

The conflicting emotions and reluctant attraction between Aileen and Ragnor added a nice element of heat to this story. Their interactions often went from cold to hot quickly keeping this story lively and pushing her portrayals boundaries to their limits. This author realistically showed how Aileen dealt with her overwhelming and stressful circumstances. The divulging of Aileen's past, for insight into her strengths and weaknesses, was very well done by this writer. A fascinating secondary cast will pique readers' interest and added to this work.

Sapir A. Englard brings interesting and unique characters to life in her writing. Dark subject matter was dealt with carefully and without glossing over it by this author while keeping the integrity of her story's underlying malevolent theme. Cloak of the Vampire started off slow only to launch off into a surprisingly memorable story that will have readers excited for the next installment of this series!

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

*Reading the next book in this series is necessary for this story's conclusion.*

Queen of Ruin

By: Paula Dombrowiak

Release Date: June 11, 2024

Publisher: Dark Angel Publishing LLC

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

5 Stars

Evangeline and Dare swept right in and took readers deeper into their hold in the second book in the Kingmaker Trilogy, Queen of Ruin. As this pair's relationship set roots, the intensity and frenzy of their emotional turmoil built up for its inevitable day of reckoning. This couple's stepping out of their accepted roles in society to embrace their attraction and growing feelings was unique and compelling. Personal grudges took on calculating roles and kept the suspense high in this work. This was a book that was crafted with care and wide spanning perspectives.

Paula Dombrowiak is an author who is making a name for herself with books that are complex, sophisticated and just so good. The intimacy of her writing is captivating in its brutality, her portrayals always leave their mark. Queen of Ruin was worth the wait building on this fabulous series for its much anticipated conclusion!

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

*The previous book in this trilogy and needs to be read as part of three for the complete story*

Charming Deception

By: Jaine Diamond

Release Date: June 4, 2024

Publisher: DreamWarp Publishing Ltd.

Author Website: https://jainediamond.com/

4 Star

Jaine Diamond's Charming Deception introduces her new Bayshore Billionaires series with an interesting challenge and loaded with intriguing characters!

When gorgeous billionaire and notorious ladies man Jameson Vance went to his grandfather's will reading much to his chagrin he was tasked with completing an assignment in order to collect his inheritance or lose it all. With multiple obstacles put in his way, and endangering his achieving his endgame, Jameson's strength was tested daily.

Leaving her old life behind Megan Hudson, with just a suitcase in hand, moved in with her famous older brother who was staying with his best friend Jameson hoping to get a fresh start. Honest and beautiful there was nothing superficial about Megan and it was no surprise that she captured Jameson's interest.

The dynamic between this couple was sizzling and always just a flame away. This author kept Jameson and Megan's attraction on high even while keeping them just within reach of acting on their desire by using clever ways to up the heat between them. Well devised interactions between this pair developed their characters and showed them to be well matched.

Jaine Diamond writes with depth and spice. Her portrayals are intense and go beyond surface level making them stand out and grab her reader's attention and often their hearts. Jaine Diamond's Charming Deception kept the pages lit up to the very end with a series launch readers will love and will leave them avidly awaiting her next installment!

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

The Summer I Destroyed You

By: Elizabeth O’Roark

Release Date: May 22, 2024

Publisher: Elizabeth O’Roark

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

4 Star

Elizabeth O'Roark takes readers to a place of difficult pasts coming to the forefront with dark intentions seeking retribution in The Summer I Destroyed You for a story full of unexpected revelations.

Successful businesswoman Emerson "Emmy" Hughes' understandable lack of self-confidence fronted with an abrasive personality and an agenda of revenge toward those in her hometown who had bullied her throughout her childhood drove this story. Her anger often overshadowed her finer attributes and mercenary ruthless behavior was her go to strategy in accomplishing her goals. Yet once you were able to see past her extreme hurt and emotional scars there was a good person waiting to give love and be loved. That being said Emmy was the kind of character who needed to grow on you.

Contractor Liam Doherty had spent most of his life in his hometown of Elliott Springs, loving its history and his connection to it. He was the kind of hero who took the high road time and time again sometimes to his own detriment. He was a man that was many times overlooked or taken for granted because he was dependably a good friend and family member. Loyal and perceptive Liam fought for the underdog and had the strength to confront those who preyed on others weaknesses.

Liam and Emmy at first glance seemed to be a mismatch. But this pair's lively banter, where Liam met Emmy's snarky comments with strong witty comebacks, were a highlight of this work. The intense physical attraction this couple felt for each other carried throughout this story complementing their verbal sparring. Liam and Emmy's opposing views on what they were to each other were enough to keep readers on edge with the uncertainty of their relationship direction. Liam's devotion to Emmy and his ability to see and encourage the better parts of her despite her concerted effort to do the opposite made for some challenging interactions.

Elizabeth O'Roark excels at multifaceted portrayals. Trust and hurt are often themes in this author's books creating conflict and complicated dynamics that she adeptly works through for touching stories that resonate with her audience. The Summer I Destroyed You will restore your faith in the power of love over hate, great read!

*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 Silence of Monsters

By: Jay Crownover

Release Date: ‎ May 16, 2024

Publisher: Jay Crownover LLC

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

5 Stars

With lots of twisty turns and complicated family dynamics Jay Crownover created a story that was as captivating as it was memorable in The Silence of Monsters!

Free spirit Channing Harvey made no excuses for who she was nor did she feel she was less than those who were steep in money and privilege. Her big heart and at times brutal honesty were her shining qualities that were impossible to miss. Billionaire and Halliday heir Win Halliday learned from the best on how to get what he wanted at any cost except when it came to himself personally. Hiding behind a facade of cold and calculating was a man full of unexpected caring.

Two people could not be more opposite than Win and Channing. Channing’s openness and transparency clashed with the hardness and aloofness of Win causing untold amounts of angst for these characters yet their attraction to each other could not be ignored no matter how much they tried. The interactions between this couple were intense and sharp keeping the pages smoldering with their intense extreme emotions toward each other. Despite Win's underhanded and unethical attempts to force Channing to do his bidding, in the end Win met his match in Channing bonding over their love of their niece Winnie resulting in a meaningful connection.

If evil were to be personified the title would go to Colette Halliday. Her dark machinations knew no limit and created a scenario that will leave readers gaping in horror at the lengths she went to in order to achieve her wicked goals. Driven by Colette's actions this story was fast paced often keeping readers in suspense.

Jay Crownover is an extremely versatile writer. Her ability to create portrayals that are interesting and have depth has made her a sought after author and fan favorite. Filled with dark and haunted overtones and a great cast of characters The Silence of Monsters was impossible to put down, book two cannot come fast enough!

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

*This is book one of a duet and book two needs to be read for the conclusion.* 

Drew

By: Siobhan Davis

Release Date: May 9, 2024

Publisher: Siobhan Davis

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

5 Stars

Countless hours spent in the Rydeville Elite Universe comes to a spectacular conclusion as only Siobhan Davis can deliver In Drew!

Drew Manning was a character caught up in dark secrets from the first page of the Rydeville Series. The emotional burdens he carried throughout the series resulted in a man full of unrelenting darkness and simmering rage keeping him stagnant and unable to move on from his past decisions and actions. This was a story full of conflict, pain and revenge. This portrayal was broken but not a lost cause. 

In a strange twist of fate Drew was confronted by a woman who could stand toe to toe with him, not allowing him to continue to fester, cutting himself off from the potential to have happiness.  The interactions Drew had with this woman capable of seeing past his torment were touching and intense. Their connection was raw and undeniable in their shared suffering and anger that resulted in explosive chemistry.

As the expansive Rydeville Elite cast pulled together for Drew this author updated readers on their lives allowing readers to see them settled and living their best lives. Devotion and support thrived within this group showing that out of the agony and horror they endured there was happiness to be found. Sensitive subject matter was not glossed over but handled perceptively by this author.

The amount of detail and attention Siobhan Davis puts into her works is mind-boggling. Between her connections, twists and stunning revelations her stories are always anticipated and satisfying. This author has the unique ability to find strength in her characters under the most extreme and trying circumstances. The Rydeville Elite series beyond its shocking turns was one invested in relationships, both love and friendships, that were tested time and time again only to weather the worst storms imaginable. Few series with the longevity of this one can conclude with the distinction of every work being a standout. Drew takes readers to a bittersweet closure that readers will feel does the Rydeville Elite series justice.

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

*This book is part of a series and it is necessary to read the previous books in the series first.*

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.*