Whit and Conrad were worth waiting for! This is a story of soulmates and second chances. It’s an age-gap, small-town, loved-and-lost-and-hoping-to-lovWhit and Conrad were worth waiting for! This is a story of soulmates and second chances. It’s an age-gap, small-town, loved-and-lost-and-hoping-to-love-again story. There’s pain, heartbreak, pining, passion, hope, and healing.
I loved seeing them start to find their way back toward each other, to be honest and vulnerable, to own up to their mistakes, and to fight for another chance. I especially liked seeing Conrad try to make up for his past mistakes and try to win Whit back, but also seeing Whit have to face the fear of possible hurt and rejection again and be brave enough to put himself out there again. I felt everything right along with these two and I just adored them together. It also brings back all of the other characters from the series and helps wrap up their stories in a sweet epilogue. ...more
An Irish Mafia Princess who only wanted to escape her life and the trauma forced on her by her evil father and his cronies. She will never escape thatAn Irish Mafia Princess who only wanted to escape her life and the trauma forced on her by her evil father and his cronies. She will never escape that night and what it did to her and her brothers, but she is trying to make a new life for herself. She is tired of being seen as broken Maeve and is afraid she will never find someone to love her and look past it.
A Sicilian Mafia heir trying to prove himself and take care of his family while dealing with family business and enemies. He is not looking for love. He is already promised as his family duty. And there's a lot riding on their new alliance after his sister married Maeve's brother.
They are not supposed to fraternize despite the new family ties and alliance, but something about the damaged yet strong Irish beauty brings out all of the protective instincts and attracts Rafe like no other. But she has overprotective brothers and he has nosy ones. And there are plenty of reasons that they do not make sense.
But he is attuned to her and appreciates everything about her strong spirit and fire. And longs to comfort and protect her, and help her begin healing. She challenges him and it keeps him interested and enamored. It is forbidden and secret, and even the shortest amount of time together is still playing with fire.
They are from two strong mafia families. There are rules, obligations, and honor. Maeve has been broken by this life and is trying to find her strength and take back control of her life. He is trying to maintain control over the family and his own feelings while also dealing with obligations. Their families are already tied and it only complicates matters. But sometimes something that should be all wrong just feels right.
And these two will have to figure out what they can live with and what they can live without. And what is more important honor and duty or love and passion? Neither choice is a safe one and every choice could have dire consequences.
This is an emotional, suspenseful, passionate, forbidden, brother-in-laws' little sister, mafia romance with two characters shaped by trauma and growing up in the violent patriarchal underworld. It is about finding hope and healing when they least expect it with the person they should not. This timeline lines up with events happening in the first two books now from Maeve and Rafe's points of view and it brings back all of the previous characters. I am looking forward to more in this series.
I have totally fallen in love with the Darlings of Montana. This town, this couple, their friends, and family had me smiling the entire book.
Ashley AlI have totally fallen in love with the Darlings of Montana. This town, this couple, their friends, and family had me smiling the entire book.
Ashley Alcott has picked up stakes from Maine and impulsively moves to Montana to be near his best friend. He finds a job as a cook on a ranch which brings him to Jackson Darling. He’s a handsome, stoic, grumpy, hardworking cowboy with a hidden heart of gold. He takes care of the ranch, his family, and his brothers, but he’s afraid to believe that he’ll ever find love again, even though he really wants it. He's been hurt before and is still affected by it.
Ashley is pure sunshine and shines that light right into Jackson‘s life. And he gets right under Jackon's skin and his defenses. Jack tries to resist and guard his heart, but Ashley is determined to get a rise out of this cowboy and hopes to get a chance with him. And the more time they spend together, the more they find out they’re exactly what each other needs in a partner. They have fun banter and hot chemistry, and they support and want to take care of each other.
I just absolutely adored these two together. Ash craved a real home and Jack needed someone to want to stay. They are witty, sweet, tender, and passionate. And I am so excited to spend more time with his brothers Lawson, Colton, and Remi, who already intrigue me with their interesting backstories. His parents had me laughing too because they’re just so over the top, but also so loving and meddling.
This is a wonderful heartfelt start to this new series and I am here for it. I loved the setting of the Darling Ranch and the small town. It made me want to go visit.
5 + stars! Max Lambert is the growly, grumpy, intimidating, big monster of a goalie for the San Francisco Sea Dogs and Everly Rosewood is the team pub5 + stars! Max Lambert is the growly, grumpy, intimidating, big monster of a goalie for the San Francisco Sea Dogs and Everly Rosewood is the team publicist. They drive each other crazy and appear to hate each other while there is this simmering sexual tension and want between them that they do not want to admit. He is grumpy to her sunshine. Beast to his Beauty. He avoids the press, while she tries to make him talk to them. But he avoids the press like the plague and he has his reasons for not trusting.
But when he gets the news he needs to rehab his image, poor Everly is tasked with making miracles for Max. He needs to change his anti-social, unapproachable rep and improve his likability quotient to secure his place on the team and make endorsement deals.
These two have such feisty banter, undeniable sexual tension, and thrive on exasperating the other. But when he finally sees she is trying to help him, it just adds another layer of secret appreciation. And eventually it is going to explode one way or another. But they know anything more between them is a bad idea.
These two were so much feisty fun! I love a grumpy hero with past pain and guards up and then seeing more vulnerability. And Everly is an awesome heroine who hides her own past pain with a sunshine attitude and tenacity. They are snarky, stubborn, and living in a world of denial at times. It's fun to watch them fight each other, themselves, their demons, and their own urges and feelings.
There’s so much going on under the surface of this hockey player and PR woman story. Her past is gradually revealed and it has left her with mental and physical scars that have a huge impact on her life. And he has major trust issues due to his recent past. They’re working on his reputation with the media due to all of the issues and scandals, but along the way they’re also working on themselves and learning to trust someone, be vulnerable, be honest, and develop a deep connection that neither of them expected. And through that trust and connection, she is healing and becoming more comfortable in her own skin and becoming even more empowered. And he is also growing, not only with how he appreciates and treats her and opens up, but also that affects his ability to step back into the limelight and try to do the job that his team needs him to do.
They both had these sharp guarded outer shells in the beginning, but I loved seeing the cracks form, but then find ways to meld together to become stronger and help each other also become stronger. And even though the enemies part was fun when they were sniping and snarking at each other, even as they were developing feelings, they still had fun and witty banter, natural comfort, and companionship that they both needed but were afraid to trust that was possible.
But all of this is going on in secret due to rules, perceptions, media, propriety, and their jobs. It feels like the best situation for them but set right in the middle of an impossible one, and no matter how much they want and need to be together there will be challenges to get there. I loved seeing these two find such a connection, fight their demons, heal, and grow individually and together. I was totally enthralled with their journey and adored both Max and Everly. I am a sucker for a growly, beast-like hero who gets tamed by a badass beauty.
I loved seeing Max show his softer side where he is so patient, thoughtful, generous, supportive, protective, and loving. And Everly is so tenacious, smart, caring, and really comes into her own. I laughed with them, hurt for them, smiled, and swooned so hard! This book brings all the fun, witty banter, feels, spice, and just enough conflict and drama to make you keep turning pages. The also have great groups of friends and people supporting them along the way.
I enjoyed seeing the characters from the first book and cannot wait for the next book in this series.
Ainsley Mackinley is heading to the small town of Ember Falls for her first big news assignment. She just has to face her former friend and long-time Ainsley Mackinley is heading to the small town of Ember Falls for her first big news assignment. She just has to face her former friend and long-time crush that she has not seen in four years and try to get him to cooperate. Lachlan West is a former football player and now single dad and new small-town Fire Chief.
These two have this history that they’ve never dealt with. They’re both a little stubborn and they thrive on taunting and exasperating each other. Those crushes are still causing conflicting emotions, attraction, and pining. And they did not think the other felt the same way.
She’s trying to be a professional, but he’s just really hot, protective, caring, and such a good guy. But he has big walls and abandonment issues. She’s sassy, funny, smart, sarcastic, and more beautiful than he remembered. But he still thinks he could never have her. I really liked them together. Their banter is snarky and fun and based on a shared past.
Close proximity and finally opening up will test and tempt them. They have chemistry, banter, and strong feelings. Glimpses at a family life they could share tease them because their lives and careers do not seem to mesh. And Lach is still not dealing with some of his past issues. He is this dichotomy of admitting his feelings, but then unable to imagine there is a possibility of a future. He has his reasons but sometimes I really just wanted to shake some sense into him. My heart hurt for them as they were taunted by what was possible, but struggling with challenges.
This is a childhood friends, longtime crushes, best-friend's-little-sister, grumpy-sunshine, second chance, single dad, small-town romance. It's about choices and priorities and facing the past to have any chance of moving forward. I am already intrigued by the side characters in this new small-town series, and I cannot wait for more with this group.
4.5 stars This is another emotional story in this series. Aiden‘s been around in several books and he’s always seemed like this easy-going, goofy, adre4.5 stars This is another emotional story in this series. Aiden‘s been around in several books and he’s always seemed like this easy-going, goofy, adrenaline-loving cowboy who doesn’t take things seriously. But now we see that there is more to his past that has strongly affected him and his feelings of self-worth, and a relationship that he lost before it really got started.
During one of his adventures in the present, he comes face-to-face with that man who he hasn’t seen in years. Seth McCall was his slightly older mentor, friend, and secret crush. He helped him through a difficult time in his life and helped him gain skills and find a home. But then after some difficult events, he pushed Aiden away. Not willing to lose touch again, Aiden is going to use his big personality to just keep pushing himself back into Seth's life.
Seth has been isolating himself on his family ranch and avoiding the town and gossip. He’s tired, overwhelmed, and has not gotten over the events from the past. And being around Aiden again brings it all back.
I enjoyed seeing these two reconnect, finally start communicating and being honest about some of the past, and find an even stronger connection and hope. But these two have some deep-seated self-worth issues, challenges, and there are some secrets from the past still lurking.
These really are two broken guys who have been missing some of their pieces until they reunited, but now they’ll have to figure out if they can make each other whole enough to move forward and leave the past behind. But they have to both be willing to be brave and fight for it to do so.
This brings back some of characters from previous books but can be read as a stand-alone. I really loved these two together and seeing them start to grow and heal again after stagnating for so many years.
It was only supposed to be a one-night stand to light her lamp. And he shoots, he scores...BIG! The small crowd of these two is shocked by the repercuIt was only supposed to be a one-night stand to light her lamp. And he shoots, he scores...BIG! The small crowd of these two is shocked by the repercussions, but they decide that they’re going to face it head-on.
Mabel is no-nonsense, responsible, independent and she has the support of her family behind her. Joe is charming and handsome. He is supposed to be just focusing on hockey and he has sworn off relationships and never planned on a family. But this surprising news shocks and awes him. But he’s also been brought up in a good family with good values and knows he needs to take his part of responsibility. It was a shot that they thought was going to shatter their lives and it did send them going in a different direction.
They just have to figure out exactly what that is going to look like. He is a busy pro hockey player in Chicago. She is a small-town Cherry Harbor girl and museum curator who enjoys her deep family roots. But the more they try to organize life, the more things keep surprising them. I loved seeing them feel their way through these new situations and start to have to deal with messy feelings.
Joe Lupo totally won my heart. He is such a thoughtful, caring, protective, and generous hero even when he is a bit oblivious and confused about his own thoughts, feelings, priorities, and future. But now he’s got to decide whether he is brave enough and truly wants to take a shot at love as well. And Mabel is just such a smart, strong, and sweet woman just trying to do the best for everyone. They are so cute together and have such chemistry. I just loved them and found myself cheering them on in some of the most emotional and sweetest moments.
This is a one-night stand gone awry, surprise pregnancy, small town, opposites-attract, hockey and history nerd romance with all the feels. I enjoyed the cameos from both of their families and friends from the Melanie Harlow universe. I enjoyed every page of this book and their engaging, heartfelt, inspiring story.
Oh, these poor damaged Swift brothers are breaking my heart. Easton Swift is one of the most broken boys I have read. He has felt like a burden and unOh, these poor damaged Swift brothers are breaking my heart. Easton Swift is one of the most broken boys I have read. He has felt like a burden and unwanted his entire life and tragically lost the only people who loved him unconditionally and still blames himself. He is struggling with survivor's guilt, feels unfixable, and is plagued by negative thoughts, self-worth issues, and grief. He gets into trouble often and somehow one man seems to be there to help him each time.
Archer Thorn is a police officer and good guy. He is caring, protective, dependable, positive-minded, and a fixer. Something keeps drawing him to the youngest Swift brother not only to help keep him out of trouble and protect him but also due to an attraction and growing connection and feelings. East lets Archer see a bit more than most, but he also knows that pushing East will make him pull farther away.
It is easier to start with a physical relationship where feelings are not supposed to be allowed. East is sure no one would ever really want more from him anyway. But as they grow closer and East begins to find a safety and acceptance he has never known, he begins to want to be a better man for both himself and Archer. But he has such deep wounds and has never felt good enough for anyone and feels that he ruins everything. He struggles so hard and has felt so alone. I loved that Archer wants to be his safe place and keeps showing up for him and trying to assuage his doubts.
This is an emotional, heartfelt, and passionate story about shared trauma, pain, hope, healing, unconditional love, and fighting to be better and for a future. It does not sugarcoat the effects of trauma, verbal abuse, loss, and mental health issues. Easton has to find it within himself to get out of his comfort zone, ask for help, and begin to trust people again. This is also about his brothers and trying to reconcile and understand the men they have become and deal with their shared past pain, guilt, and self-worth issues. My heart hurt for these men who had been through so much and have not dealt with it well. I am looking forward to the eldest brother, Rhett's book next. I am so excited for his pairing.
A meet-cute with a damsel in a dire situation and her unexpected white knight who comes in and saves the night. Josie Winters is starting a new job anA meet-cute with a damsel in a dire situation and her unexpected white knight who comes in and saves the night. Josie Winters is starting a new job and a new life in San Francisco near her brother. She is a sweet and sassy librarian. One night ends with a surprisingly hot night with a stranger. And there may have been a bit of hope that they could find each other again and explore more. But when her lodging plans fall through, her brother finds her a place with a friend and teammate. Unfortunately, she already knows him.
Wesley Bryant is a hockey player trying to do his best for his team. He is kind, generous, charming, focused, and now is totally screwed. He knows the bro code all too well. But now temptation is living in his guest room. Roommates are dicey. Teammate's little sisters are off-limits. I really loved their banter and chemistry. These two are just so fun and flirty together. I loved seeing that they brought this out in each other. And it made me just have butterflies and be excited, but then real life slaps them in the face. It’s a new day, new rules, and new complications. And now they’re living in close proximity and facing the temptation every day as their friendship grows even stronger along with desire. My heart broke as their hope dwindled due to perceived rules though I knew they would eventually break them. But this story turned out to have more depth, more issues, and more challenges. These two see each other for who they are deep inside but also the potential they have to be more and to live more fully.
I loved seeing these two going through different stages as the dynamics changed. Their connection and genuine affection for each other just keep building naturally. They allow themselves to be vulnerable with each other and actually seem to see the other more clearly. Rules are made to be broken or at least they’re going to bend them. But the more it goes on, the more complicated it gets. And it was only supposed to be a set timeline due to circumstances. And their timing all along has been just a bit off.
I just adored these two and this story and it kept me enthralled all the way through. It went in directions I did not expect. It took some tropes and twisted them and highlighted other problems. These two are just magic together and really support each other, but also allow each other to feel safe and bold enough to explore new things, find their true selves, and live a fuller life. They are dirty, fiery, and well-matched in the bedroom and out of it, but also just so adorable and fun together. But they both also have to fix and figure out some things to even have a chance.
This is the beginning of a brand new MF hockey series, so there are new characters along with old ones from the LB hockey world..I am interested in the side characters and I cannot wait to see more with these other couples. And the environment is familiar too due to the San Francisco scene and the hockey world.
Quinn Kavanaugh is a big, burly, scarred enforcer for his family. The last two years have marked him in more ways than one and he has become more of aQuinn Kavanaugh is a big, burly, scarred enforcer for his family. The last two years have marked him in more ways than one and he has become more of a broody loner wracked with guilt. He is used to his life in the darkness.
Isla was a competitive dancer, teaches pole classes, and is in grad school. Her past has also broken her in some ways and left her with responsibilities so she is auditioning for a job at Alainn, the strip club owned by the Kavanaugh family. She is intelligent, sweet, naive, caring, and pure sunshine.
An intense meeting with surprises for both of them. A woman who is more fascinated than repulsed by his scars and a man willing to teach a potential dancer how to properly do a lap dance. A connection they never saw coming and one that they know should be resisted. But the more they know, the more they like and appreciate about the other. She sees the worth of the man under the Beast and he knows just how to make her feel both physically and emotionally. And she is the only woman who has made him react, care, and become protective and possessive. Despite the surprise and concern of their families, these two have a bond that just seems to get stronger. And some difficult situations only increase the intensity.
I love a broken big man with a big heart and Quinn is so protective, possessive, intense, and insatiable around her. He does not feel worthy but is willing to prove he is. He worships her in all the ways. But they live in a dangerous world and perceptions can cause drama and there are always underlying threats to be concerned about. And even though she is brave and bold, she is not used to this dark world and has people in her own life that she needs to protect.
This is a passionate love story set in the darker world of the Irish mafia, a strip club, and a few other interesting locations. There is suspense, drama, spice, emotional growth, and dealing with demons. But there is also wit, banter, and a grumpy-sunshine vibe. I loved the nods to Beauty and the Beast and Pretty Woman. I liked getting more with his brothers and Caterina. And her sister, Brooke is sassy and outspoken. I am looking forward to more in this series with this family. There seem to be plenty of stories that will be interesting.
Oh, the saga of Mack and Davy. These two just hurt my heart so much. They are so good together, completely in love with each other, best friends, and Oh, the saga of Mack and Davy. These two just hurt my heart so much. They are so good together, completely in love with each other, best friends, and love their little family. But the thing that divided them was Davey's workaholic tendencies, and time away from home. When Mack made a hail Mary to attempt to get his attention and threatened divorce, he thought Dave would fight for them, but two years later, they are divorced, still living with each other as Davey's schedule allows, and still hopelessly in love with each other.
They are best friends and they still have chemistry and such strong feelings. Davey now has an extended time where he will be at home and Mack is determined to show him what he’s missing and hope that he will make the right choice this time.
Davey is not a bad guy, he just feels like he needs to provide for his family in this way, and it’s his way of showing love. It's also a big part of his self-identity. Mack sometimes can’t see past the fact that he just wants his partner and the father of his children home with them. So they’re right back in the same spot they were and this time they may have to find a resolution or there’s a chance that one of them may want to move on.
There are attempts at family fun and dates, slip-ups in physical affection, matchmaking plans, and romantic schemes. The Divorced Men's Club is right there offering cautious advice because they care about both Mack and Davey. It’s a sweet, heartfelt, hurt-comfort, opposites-attract, second-chance romance.
It's heartbreaking to see two people want the same things but are not sure of how to actually get there. And if they just stay in the same rut, they’re never going to get anywhere. So they’re both going to have to start thinking outside the box, understanding each other feelings, and actually communicating about them to have a chance of getting what they really want.
They were perfect for each other in so many ways and how much they truly loved each other. It was never about not loving, it was only about priorities and understanding the other's needs. Mack was so focused on not having the time together that he felt they deserved. And Davey was just taking care of his family in his own way. But they were just still stuck in their own heads on what they felt was right so they needed a shake-up to figure it out. I loved seeing them start to look more at the other's point of view and try to come up with different solutions to their same old problem. It's a journey to recapture romance and happiness individually and together as a couple and family.
I have enjoyed this whole series and I am sad to see it over but enjoyed getting cameos from the others and seeing them happy.
I loved everything about this book. I was already attached to the inhabitants of Majestic and was excitTwo men and a baby... and a majestic small town.
I loved everything about this book. I was already attached to the inhabitants of Majestic and was excited about Dev's story when we met him in the last book. But I totally fell for Dev, Tully, and little Lellie in this story. Dev has been struggling for a while but he found some sense of peace and more of a sense of home when he moved to Majestic to help his friend. But he still struggles with guilt, self-worth issues, and feels like he lets people down. He doesn’t think he deserves a partner or a family or to make deep attachments other than those he already has. And he is guarded and scared of rejection and failure.
But when Tully Bowman burst back into his life carrying a beaming baby girl on his hip, it is a catalyst for change. Tully and Dev have a little bit of history that they both never quite got over. But now, they’re having to figure out the best course of action to take care of this little girl and honor her mother‘s legacy since she was special to both of them. Tully is sarcastic but also caring and supportive. But is also caught up in a conflict of interest and confusing loyalties.
This is such a journey of self-discovery, growth, change, and just an evolution for Dev. He’s having to face his past, dig deep, face his fears, figure out what is truly important in life, and fight for what he wants. He’s got a fantastic support system of his best friends and their partners and the town of Majestic behind them, but there are also a lot of challenges, complications, and other people who want to fight for this little girl.
I loved Tully and Dev together. They have this kind of snarky rapport and chemistry and just this connection that sparked so hot but then simmered and they couldn’t quite leave it behind. And now they're in close quarters and leaning on each other but the temptation is real and so are the big feelings.
This is a suddenly single dad, small town, found family, second chance love story and I adored every page. I’m looking forward to the next book which seems like it’s going to be a little bit of a change in scenery and a little bit more suspense. And I am really hoping we see a book for Sheriff Foster and I’m also looking forward to more with Landry and Kenji. All these boys need to get it together and find their men.
Two men go to Vegas with the best of intentions, but end up in a bar with alcohol and leave there with a couple souvenirs, including wedding bands andTwo men go to Vegas with the best of intentions, but end up in a bar with alcohol and leave there with a couple souvenirs, including wedding bands and a certificate.
Waylon Fletcher is a seemingly straight rancher and mayor from the small town of Majestic,Wyoming. Silas Concannon is a secret billionaire and corporate strategist from Manhattan. And when Silas comes to Majestic to take care of the little matter, it gets a bit more complicated. Now Mr. Manhattan is playing his role as First Husband of Mr. Majestic at least temporarily.
Silas is fascinated by the crazy, gossip-hungry small town and Waylon needs to make the situation appear less impulsive. And Silas has his own reasons for keeping his new husband temporarily happy. It should be a win-win with a set deadline.
I loved the chemistry between these two. They’re passionate and insatiable, even though there are a lot of firsts for Waylon. I loved how Silas wanted to help and fix things for Whalen even though Way had a hard time accepting help. It’s like they couldn’t help being real husbands while they’re trying to convince themselves that they’re fake husbands, but all the elements are there for them to have a wonderful real relationship. Well, all except the fact that Silas is supposed to be leaving and he lives in New York.
Whalen is a guy who tries to be everything for everyone and has so many decisions to make that he’s just drowning under pressure, but at the same time, it’s hard for him to give up control and trust that somebody has his back. And Silas is protective and a fixer that thrives on taking care of things, taking action, and making things better for those he cares about. So they’re such a great match and an unlikely pair since they are such opposites and from different backgrounds. But I also liked seeing Silas thrive as a fish out of water and push his own boundaries to try to learn new things and fit in in the small town. He’s truly the perfect first husband of Majestic and un unexpected blessing for Way. But it is also scary to be vulnerable and not know what the other one is really feeling.
This is a Vegas marriage of convenience, opposites-attract, bi-awakening, cowboy-city boy, small-town romance with wit, charm, sweetness, and steam. It's about finding trust, home, purpose, support, and companionship. I enjoyed the new characters from Majestic including Way's cousin, Foster, and also Silas' friend group introduced in Prince of Lies: Bash and Rowe, Dev, Landry, Kenji, and Zane. They also both have strong, loving sisters. The quirky small-town setting is fun and comes alive in the pages.
I liked that we also got a little peek of Dev's book and I’m very interested in seeing how things happen with him
4.5+ stars I have fallen totally head over heels in love with Nash Giltmaker. He is big, handsome, and a bit intimidating. But he is charming, flirty, 4.5+ stars I have fallen totally head over heels in love with Nash Giltmaker. He is big, handsome, and a bit intimidating. But he is charming, flirty, protective, and has a heart of gold. He rides in on his motorcycle and even after a rocky start, he takes Livia under his wing and becomes someone she can rely on. He is an unexpected Knight, protector, and sexy distraction.
And that is something Livia has never really had. People tend to take from her and fail her when she needs them. And her last boyfriend left her in such a state that she has been hiding out at the Giltmaker Brewery and afraid for her life. But she is smart, tenacious, sweet, caring, and a people pleaser. But she is terrified and overwhelmed and not sure what to do.
Nash has his own family dynamic issues and is only supposed to be back in Vermont to help intermittently. But he is finding some things that make him want to stay. But Livia has the potential to go running. And his place in his family's legacy has never panned out in the past. And there is drama, danger, and threats against them. They have amazing chemistry and are both strong-willed. I loved seeing him fall first and hard while she tries to fight it because of her fear.
This is a sexy, small-town, romantic suspense story about trust, safety, and home. I loved being back in Vermont and spending some time with old friends like Leila, Matteo, and Benito Rossi. I hope we see more coming with some of the side characters especially his brother, Mitch and friend, Poppy.
Monroe and Juliet are cohosts of a romance podcast who love to rile each other up and get under each other's skin. They also had a brief fling years aMonroe and Juliet are cohosts of a romance podcast who love to rile each other up and get under each other's skin. They also had a brief fling years ago that they do not talk about. They help people with relationships and also with ending them on their podcast but are unlucky in love themselves.
Monroe is divorced, cynical, snarky, emotionally unavailable, and not looking for love. Juliet is sassy, sweet, and tirelessly looking for love and it seems like in all the wrong places or at least with all the wrong guys.
But now they are finding themselves near the scene of their fling, sharing close proximity in a seductive environment,, and tempted more than ever. And Juliet is pushed to keep trying dating so when Monroe comes up with a dating coach plan, she goes along with it. But now he is really amping up the what-ifs and temptation. And these two together are so freaking hot and passionate together.
Role-play dates, seductive settings, shared history, and current intertwined careers and lives make it a bit complicated. Monroe is usually a closed book about himself but finds it opening a bit for Juliet. She is patient, kind, brave, and loves to challenge him. But he has deep insecurities and feelings that he is not a good partner and not enough. But maybe a challenge is just what he needs to finally decide he is worthy of his own love story.
This is finally Monroe's story that I have been waiting a while for. He was always in the background giving advice and it brings back some cameos from old friends. I just adored Monroe and Juliet together so much. And Monroe is one of those guys that has this hard veneer but I just love seeing cracks form in it letting those little peeks of deeper emotions shine through. And Juliet has a positive attitude but some deep feels. There are plenty of opportunities for self-discovery for both of them.
It is a spicy, witty, grumpy-sunshine, forced proximity, brother's-best-friend and brother-in-law's best friend, friends and coworkers to lovers, dating lessons, second chance romance. It brings all the fun, fire, frustration, and the feels along the way. I was totally invested in this story and even though it made me laugh, it also made me feel their pain. But it makes it just that much sweeter when characters can learn, heal, grow, and try to do better. I thought Monroe was a total swoon-worthy hero and Juliet was a patient and brave heroine. The new setting of Darling Springs brings a quirky small-town feel with interesting characters.
This book grabbed me from the start and kept me invested. Two seemingly opposite men whose reaction is so strong that it is easiest to explain it as hThis book grabbed me from the start and kept me invested. Two seemingly opposite men whose reaction is so strong that it is easiest to explain it as hate or at least strong dislike.
Creek is not doing well coming to terms with his new life minus one leg and his active duty Army career. He is bitter, angry, prickly, overwhelmed, determined, and fiercely independent. He has ties with his "brothers" but has never really been in a real relationship and has only hooked up with women. He has lost hope, his identity, and is unsure of what comes next in his future. It is easy to take out his annoyance and anger on the sunshiny amputee that he has to share time in physical therapy with.
Heath has a sunny disposition, a goofy grin, and a seemingly positive outlook. And he is farther ahead than Creek in his recovery and that just makes Creek want to compete with him more. He has had an easier time transitioning back to his career as a high school teacher and coach and makes no secret he is gay. But his happy facade also hides some deep personal pain, abandonment, trust, and self-worth issues.
From hating to be in the same room together to becoming irrationally obsessed with each other and not sure they like it, I enjoyed seeing them begin to look deeper at each other and find common ground. And their verbal reactions turn to strong, unexpected physical ones and to a connection neither of them ever expected. I loved these two together especially as they showed the cracks in their armor and allowed themselves to be vulnerable and begin to trust and feel.
This is an emotional, opposites-attract, grumpy-sunshine, bi-awakening, hurt-comfort story about hope, trust, support, healing, featuring firsts, friendship, and found family. I enjoyed this whole group from Creek's housemates and former teammates Nash, Bean, and Tameron, his brother Forest, their PT Kent, and Heath's friends Kaleo and Zayd. I am looking forward to more in this series. As a therapist, I appreciated the fact that the authors did not make their recovery and medical problems easy or quick fixes and dealt honestly with the effort required, pain, and setbacks. It added depth and framework to the story, but their connection, healing, and ability to persevere and overcome made it truly shine. Their writing styles blended very well to craft this beautiful story of love and self-worth.
4.5 to 5 stars A politician. A porn star. Copious amounts of alcohol. One night that changes everything.
Kurt Delmont is an aspiring Senatorial candidat4.5 to 5 stars A politician. A porn star. Copious amounts of alcohol. One night that changes everything.
Kurt Delmont is an aspiring Senatorial candidate from a political family who wants to make a change but is struggling with getting traction. He is kind, caring, generous, and has strong beliefs. He is also an overthinker and sometimes feels like he is failing at his attempt to make a difference.
Johnny Haskell is also known as porn star Velvet the Cowboy who just can't do it anymore. He is struggling on many levels and is defeated. He just wants to take care of his family, but his idea to do that is extreme.
One chance meeting and an unexpected night in Vegas change their lives. And it opens up all of their deep dark secrets. Kurt is a fixer and he is determined to help Johnny in any way he can. And Johnny really does need the support. And as they get closer, Johnny also gives Kurt what he needs. They both were lonely and in need of someone to be on their side, but they never dreamed how they would be a catalyst for change in each other's lives.
This is an emotional, spicy, opposites-attract, hurt-comfort, porn star and politician romance with strong mental health representation and dealing with trauma. It's about finding hope and light in the darkness. It does not sugarcoat the issues. It is raw, real, and challenging. But it is also a hard-won love story and the building of a bond and relationship. Even though the subject matter is difficult, it is handled in a respectful way and the love story and acceptance is so wonderful that it helps balance out the negative and positive. I loved Kurt and Johnny together and how they balanced each other out and provided each other with what they really needed to find self worth, hope, healing, and look forward to the future.
I enjoyed cameos from the other books and am looking forward to the next one and I am pretty sure I know who it will be about.
4.5 to 5 stars I went into this blind and it took me on an intriguing journey of twists and turns and left me wanting more of these characters.
Winches4.5 to 5 stars I went into this blind and it took me on an intriguing journey of twists and turns and left me wanting more of these characters.
Winchester Halliday is a miserable, rigid, impatient powerful, wealthy, successful heir to the Halliday legacy. He seems like an alphahole but there are many layers to him.
Channing Harvey is a flighty, vibrant, bold, sassy, big-hearted, and loyal woman from a not-so-affluent family. Her past and current life situation are complicated and messy.
They are tied together through tragic circumstances and someone they both care about, but they feel they are enemies and seem to thrive on riling each other up. But Winn has decided that acquiring Channing into his life like a business deal could solve several of their issues. And he does not really care if Channing is prepared to fight him on it or not.
A bit of extortion and blackmail just scratch the surface but digging deeper reveals a tangled web of secrets, manipulation, deception, betrayal, and surprises. It kept me invested in the characters as they became more vulnerable and worked together trying to find the answers. And it had me on the edge of my seat as secrets were revealed and the suspense kept building.
It's an enemies-to-lovers, opposites-attract, rich man-poor woman story wrapped up in a suspenseful and mysterious soap opera with family dynamics and dark secrets.
The Halliday Manor is a character in itself with its dark history and layers of secrets. There is one character that I absolutely hated with a passion. There were other side characters I liked and added depth to the story. I enjoyed Win and Channing's chemistry. They are fiery, passionate, determined, and devoted to those they care about. I was surprised when I got to the last page and was not ready to say goodbye to them at the end and I cannot wait to see more from these characters.
“You may have won this battle, Kitten, but you will lose the war because you will be my wife.”
I honestly run hot and cold with mafia books. It is just“You may have won this battle, Kitten, but you will lose the war because you will be my wife.”
I honestly run hot and cold with mafia books. It is just not my normal book choice. But there are certain series I like or authors I will read it for. So I went into this one not sure how I was going to feel about it. But then it totally sucked me in.
This is the kind of mafia book I enjoy. Sure there is enough violence, ruthlessness, and bad behavior, but there is also humor, banter, and snark. It revolves around the Kavanaugh brothers: Callum, Quinn, Dare, and Kellan. These guys give each other so much hell but also support each other.
Callum, who recently engineered his own rise as the new head of one of the Irish mafia families is broody, cocky, intimidating, and thrives on control. And he is now strongly being encouraged to go take a wife from an Italian family to build an alliance and taking her from a nunnery did not seem like that big of a challenge.
Caterina Neretti is a novice in the nunnery instead of letting her father marry her off for his own gain. She has already sacrificed to stay out of that life. But now she is being dragged back into it...kicking and screaming. She is no mild, meek maiden. She is a tough, brave, and bold woman. And she is not taking this lying down.
I’d be lying if there wasn’t a small part of me that was turned on by her ferocity.
The fight, snark, and banter had me engaged and loving the fiery outbursts and antagonism. And the feistiness between Callum and Caterina is delightful foreplay. I loved seeing Callum react so strongly to her and be jealous of how she would act with his brothers vs. him. She is fiery and challenges him on every little thing. And he has finally met his match with a woman who stands firm and does not like being ordered around and is not as intimidated by him as he wanted her to be.
“Don’t fight it, Kitten. You’re mine, and I’m yours. We’ll possess each other until our last breaths.”
I loved seeing them play off each other but also seeing the kinder sides of Callum and how loyal he was to those he cared about. And his attempts at resisting the emotional connection that was building as she limits the physical connection. But I also enjoyed him being a strong, possessive, alpha-hole too. I loved Caterina's sass and spirit. They are both stubborn, loyal, smart, and have strong opinions. There is plenty of sexual tension and fun banter between them and they just challenge each other. But they also begin building more of an emotional connection, bond, and passion despite the tumultuous situation. There is drama, suspense, intrigue, action, and just enough violence to make it feel like a mafia story.
“For all my sins, I should never have been blessed with such beauty.”
I am so intrigued by his brothers Kellan, Quinn, and Dare, and Caterina also has three brothers, Rafe, Leandro, and Gianni. All of the family dynamics and mafia storylines add depth, drama, and intensity to the background. I am hoping Quinn's story is next. I am a sucker for a big, scarred, broody hero. But I am definitely excited about more in this series.
“The best loves are the ones that are fiery and passionate.”
This one hurt. The pain, trauma, despair, guilt. It’s just unthinkable. Nash is at his lowest point and has become a shell of himself and an addict. HThis one hurt. The pain, trauma, despair, guilt. It’s just unthinkable. Nash is at his lowest point and has become a shell of himself and an addict. He suffers from PTS and is just trying to keep to himself, but his new neighbor Mandy seems to have other ideas. And now between Brewer and the guys at BALLS interested in his recovery, it’s hard for him to stay at his rock bottom because they’re all offering him a hand. But Nash is a man who’s been hopeless, lost, guiltridden, and just trying to drown the pain and the memories from his trauma.
Brewer is no Stranger to addiction and has his own demons. But one way he deals with this is by trying to help others recover. Brewer is a therapist and addiction counselor and Nash is surely in need. But they also have this connection and awareness between them that is inconvenient at best and forbidden at worst. It is not easy. It is a raw, heartbreaking journey through darkness to find light, hope, healing, connections, and learn to love himself and live again. But all Brewer wants to be is his light for Nash to find his way home.
I loved Brewer and Nash together and felt the soul-deep connection and understanding they had for each other. The conflict of interest just added to the tension and pining. I enjoyed seeing the other BALLS knitters and guys from Serenity House. They added both layers of support and inspiration but also humor and honesty. The found family aspect of these stories is almost as important as the love stories. I’m looking forward to the next book in this series and I hope all of the guys find their own hard-won love stories.