4.5/5 stars Zane Hendley otherwise known as rockstar Zee Barlow seems to live a charmed life and always just says he’s fine. He loves to help others, b4.5/5 stars Zane Hendley otherwise known as rockstar Zee Barlow seems to live a charmed life and always just says he’s fine. He loves to help others, but he doesn’t really like to take help himself. He came from a poor background so he makes sure that he gives back to the community, is there for his friends, and is generally a wonderful and generous guy. But when it comes to his own safety, he’s generally thought it was overzealous even if he does like having his hunky bodyguard Ryan around. But recently he has been targeted by threats. And now Mr. Fine is really not so fine even if he is pretending to be...just fine.
Ryan "Bear" Galloway is his bodyguard assigned by the record label. He is attentive, intuitive, protective, and has it bad for Zane. He’s not only protecting him because it’s his job but because he truly cares. And he can see under Zane’s Mr. Fine façade to see that he is actually starting to be more anxious and worried about the situation. And Bear is also the one who seems to be able to calm Zane when something does go wrong.
So the bodyguard is crushing on the rockstar and the rock star is crushing on the bodyguard who he doesn’t even know if he is straight or gay so it is all secret and confusing. They’re also dealing with threats and people who want things from Zane and they’re just trying to find a safe harbor for a little while which puts them in close proximity. As they start to be more vulnerable and realize they both want to share some new experiences together, they are in a safe space to do so temporarily. I loved these two together and how they truly saw and trusted each other. And the vulnerability and exploration were tender and passionate.
But eventually, they have to face real life and their jobs, figure out who the threat is for their safety, and determine what is really important for each of their futures. The suspense and mystery element also added layers to the story.
This is a grumpy-sunshine, bodyguard-rockstar, secret relationship, sexual discovery, forced proximity romance with just enough suspense and plenty of feels. This brings back all of their friends from Majestic and their partners and some fun cameos. I love that this group and the found family and home compound. It sets up the next book nicely and I cannot wait for Landry and Kenji and all of their shenanigans.
4.5 stars Winnie Rodriguez is ready for at least a temporary change to get out of his rut in LA. And his best friend, Raine, sets him up on a sweet gig4.5 stars Winnie Rodriguez is ready for at least a temporary change to get out of his rut in LA. And his best friend, Raine, sets him up on a sweet gig to professor-sit in Paris for a month. Sure Winnie has no knowledge of ancient history but he can organize things and certainly make sure a Professor is styled and fed.
Professor Alistair Creighton eats and breathes his work on ancient studies especially now since romance did not work out for him. He is so caught up that he is absent-minded in other areas of his life and keeps himself isolated.
Winnie blows into his life like a whirlwind of color and chaos. He is a funny, outspoken, fashionable, fabulous diva who thrives in social settings and has great knowledge of modern pop culture. He is a non-conformist, eccentric, and optimistic. Alistair lives his life studying the past in Ancient Egypt, Greece, and Rome. He is a reserved, kind Brit who could go days without human interaction and lives a life in shades of beige and mismatched socks.
They are true opposites and paradoxical counterparts and should not fit. But somehow they start to appreciate each other and open up their worlds. And Winnie has a way of pushing his way in and getting what he wants. Surprisingly, the professor is as passionate in the bedroom as he is about his studies.
They live completely different lives in different continents. Winnie is supposed to return to LA and restart his career, and Alistair lives sheltered in the UK entrenched in his museum studies and teaching. But they do have the opportunity to enjoy Paris.
This is a low angst, feel-good, funny, sweet, and spicy opposites-attract, employer-employee, fish-out-of-water, adventures in Paris romance. I loved how they pushed each other's boundaries and helped each other grow. They were really adorable together and I enjoyed exploring Paris with them.
4.5 stars Lord has been the older, uptight, stoic, in-control, protective Drake brother. He has helped as his younger brothers found love and mates but4.5 stars Lord has been the older, uptight, stoic, in-control, protective Drake brother. He has helped as his younger brothers found love and mates but wondered if fate passed him by. But one day, his dragon compels him to save a dying Viking, and his whole world is changed. Now the most logical Drake has made what could be seen as a really big mistake. For he has bonded himself to a dragon hunter.
Alrick Havaror is a human raised in a tough hunter family. There was no love and only training and single-minded beliefs that dragons are evil and should be destroyed. But Alrick has been the shame of his family and has not performed like his brothers or father.
As Lord helps Alrick heal, they embark on an adventure. Lord has a mission in mind to do what he thinks is right under the circumstances. And Alrick is following along and buying the cover-up story. But along the way they are dealing with an attraction, connection, passion, and bond that is growing stronger. But the situation with their families seems impossible and Lord is not sure how Alrick would accept the secrets he is keeping.
This is a heartfelt and steamy romance between star-crossed lovers, species enemies, and unexpected soulmates that could be either the biggest mistake or blessing in their lives. I loved Lord and Alrick together. Alrick is just the sweetest guy that was starved for love and Lord is just so protective and thankful of having a mate to care for even as he struggles with the fact he might not be able to keep him. They will need help to figure out a possible way forward to deal with all of the challenges and threats against them. And it definitely deals with life-or-death situations.
It brings in all the Drake brothers and their mates and introduces a few new interesting characters. It had some twists that made the story unpredictable. I really enjoyed this one and the family epilogue. I am sad that this is the end of the Drake brothers but hope these authors write more together in this paranormal world.
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.
4.5 stars Watt Bartlett is sure that he is just content in his life and Copper County with his teenage son, his orchard, his friends, and his community4.5 stars Watt Bartlett is sure that he is just content in his life and Copper County with his teenage son, his orchard, his friends, and his community, even if they are a bit nosy. He may be avoiding a love life and all the advances and matchmaking, but otherwise, he is status quo.
And then Jasper Wrigley Lancaster comes back to town. He was his summer teenage best friend, rival, and first crush. But something happened and then they lost touch and now it’s twenty years later.
Jasper thought he was living a decent life in California with a career and a husband, but it’s all imploded. Now he just needs some time to lick his wounds, build up a nest egg, and get his life back on track. Taking a job that he’s not quite qualified for is what he has to do, he’s going to do it. It's only supposed to be temporary anyway.
Jasper lands back into Watt's life like an explosion that unsettles him. Old feelings, regrets, and concerns are all brought back to the forefront. They’re both sure they’re the reason for the distance and what occurred. And now they’re being forced to work together.
These guys are just so full of feelings, but they’re so bad at communicating. Snark is their foreplay and daring and making bets are their love language. And they do really charge each other's batteries. But deep down they were both hurt and have this whole sense of what if? And now they’re both supposed to be mature adults so if they could get their heads together then maybe they could now actually find out what could be possible. But Jasper never planned to stay and Watt never plans to leave Copper County.
This is a funny, sweet first crush, bi-awakening, estranged best friends and rivals-to-lovers, coming home, forced proximity, single dad, small town, soulmates romance. Copper County and O'Leary are full of quirky, nosy, well-meaning characters that add humor, fun, support, and just a bit of drama to the story.
4.5 stars Madden and Penn. They’ve been longtime best friends. Madden has been in love with Penn for years and Penn has no clue.
Madden is outgoing, cha4.5 stars Madden and Penn. They’ve been longtime best friends. Madden has been in love with Penn for years and Penn has no clue.
Madden is outgoing, charming, likable, sunshiny, gay, and a nudist. He’ll do anything for anyone and everyone loves him. Penn is quieter, isolated, realistic, and an overthinker. He really only has Madden that he considers a friend. And he’s actually jealous of the time that Madden spends with all of his housemates and feels lonely. They do work together, but there’s even some developments going on with that that could change the dynamics. Penn’s always thought he was straight but things are getting a little bit confusing.
This is a sweet and passionate best-friends-to-lovers, bi-awakening romance. They are cute, clueless, and a bit codependent. Penn Especially shows a lot of growth and opens up his world to new possibilities and new friends. And Madden is finally able to live his full truth and prepare for a future that has all of the things that are important to him.
I loved Penn and Madden together and seeing their attraction, passion, and love change and grow. There are fun times and shenanigans, and there are more serious times and struggles. There are old friends and new friends that truly help create a support system and found family. I am so looking forward to Xander’s book and now I have an inkling of who I think his love interest is going to be and I am here for it.
4.5 stars Harry Matheson and Toby Webly are political enemies with opposite beliefs. They go head-to-head daily in Parliament and thrive on challenging4.5 stars Harry Matheson and Toby Webly are political enemies with opposite beliefs. They go head-to-head daily in Parliament and thrive on challenging the other one. They loathe one another.
When they got stuck on a plane together on the way to the conference, they thought that was going to be the worst of it. But soon they realize that things can get much worse and now they are going to be relying on each other for basic survival. When faced with danger and the winter wilderness, they will have to get over their differences very quickly and help each other. And as the situation becomes more dire, the more they start to appreciate the other's tenacity, skills, intelligence, and loyalty. And they also begin to open up more and understand the others' backgrounds and what shaped their views on the world.
Harry is finally allowing his repressed sexuality to be let free as the two find solace in each other‘s company. And while in a semi-safe zone, they actually find their little pocket of routine that works for both of them. But eventually, things change again, and they find themselves back in the real world as political enemies in a forbidden situation. But now that their world has been opened up to different things, it’s harder to go back to missing them again. And they’ll have to figure out what’s more important.
This book started a little slow for me with a lot of the Parliament stuff, but once they ended up in the wild I got more interested in the story. I loved seeing them become more vulnerable and fall for the other one just a little bit every day evan as they tried to deny it. But they still had great banter whether they were fighting over politics or if they were just working together on something. But they also found this unexpected connection that irrevocably tied them together and no one else could really understand what they had been through. Neither of them had ever really opened up enough and allowed someone else to see the dark recesses of their own issues and fears or share feelings.
I really liked seeing Harry’s layers peeled back because he was so perfect, controlled, regimented, and repressed. So to see him be a real human with such deep feelings was just beautiful. And Toby was the opposite, he put on this gregarious, easy-going, confidence, but it hid the fact that he was scared of getting hurt so it was easier just to deflect with humor than to get serious.
This is a snarky, suspenseful, enemies-to-lovers, opposites-attract, survival situation and forbidden romance set both in the UK political sphere and also in the untamed wilderness. It brings back Oliver and Callum from the first book. There is a thread left with questions that are supposed to be answered in the next book.
Kat is a Blackburn through and through. She’s a horse trainer and works tirelessly at her family's horse breeding farm. She’s also sassy, stu4.5 stars
Kat is a Blackburn through and through. She’s a horse trainer and works tirelessly at her family's horse breeding farm. She’s also sassy, stubborn, and strong-willed. The Mardraggons are their family's enemies, and tensions have only gotten higher due to recent actions of the patriarch that threaten their shared niece. And now Kat has to work with Gabe Mardraggon to share the responsibility of taking care of their niece's legacy winery in Italy. Gabe has been seen as regimented, pretentious, cold, selfish, and arrogant, but is now off kilter due to the changes in his family dynamics recently affecting all aspects of his life.
These two together are fire and ice. They also have a secret history that no one else knows about where there were good times and bad ones. And when it ended, they just folded it into their family feud and hatred and let it keep going. But now that they’re spending more time together because of their niece, Kat is starting to see glimpses of the old Gabe she used to care about. And he’s realizing he still has some unresolved feelings for her too. The ice starts to melt away, leaving the smoldering fire that keeps getting hotter. Passion is one thing but they have already shared heartbreak once.
I wasn’t sure how I was going to like Gabe at first because he did seem pretentious and only driven by money, but I started to like him as I saw his layers peel away and how he felt about his niece and Kat and understood more about his past. He won me over and ended up being a protective, complex hero who sometimes has his own self-worth issues and realizes his family is a dark cloud around him. And Kat is just sassy and outspoken, but she does see more to him than he shows other people. It was nice to see how they had matured and could talk about their past but they also had to face some new challenges and try not to keep repeating the same mistakes. And Kat was a good bridge between Gabe and the Blackburns to help facilitate their niece's relationship with Gabe. And Sylvie is such a sweetheart, and I loved her relationships with her aunt and her uncle.
The hatred between their families runs deep and they gave up before even really fighting it in the past. Will they be brave enough and care enough to challenge their families and try for a second chance?
This is a forbidden, enemies-to-lovers, secret lovers, second chance romance set in the Kentucky backdrop with saddlebred horses and bourbon, but also brings in Italy and wine. It also has a bit of suspense and drama.
There are cameos by the side characters of her brothers Trey, Wade, Ethan and his girlfriend Marcie that we met in the first book, but it could be read as a standalone because the author made sure to explain some of the most important plot points of the first book.
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.
4.5 stars Oh my. Murphy and Jesse are best friends but are such a hot mess.
Murphy and Jesse both work their family's orchards in rural Wenatchee and t4.5 stars Oh my. Murphy and Jesse are best friends but are such a hot mess.
Murphy and Jesse both work their family's orchards in rural Wenatchee and they have been best friends their whole lives. Murph is hardworking, loyal, stoic, and protective. He is the grumpy, levelheaded man opposite to Jesse's silly, impulsive, cluelessness. Jesse loves spending time with Murph as he is his favorite person, but it is getting harder for Murph because he has a few secrets...one he is gay and two he is hopelessly in love with his best friend and has been forever.
And now that at least the gay secret is finally out of the bag, Murph feels the need to escape to protect his heart and maybe find But Jesse just cannot leave well enough alone. Next thing you know Jesse is cramping Murph's style on vacation but then decides he wants to do some exploring of his own. It is everything Murph has ever wanted and nothing that Jess ever considered. But things are hot, emotions are high, and fears are real.
Does what happens on vacation stay on vacation?
Bless their hearts...for two guys who knew each other so well their communication of what they were really feeling and what they really wanted was sorely lacking. Poor sweet Jesse is just so oblivious and Murph is terrified of getting his heart broken. They do really well in the bedroom, but can't seem to do anything right outside of it.
This is a funny, spicy, heartfelt, longtime best friends, idiots in lust and love, bi-awakening, small-town love story. My heart hurt for them because they truly had this soul-deep connection but things were changing so fast that it was hard to keep up. But I loved these two together and they also made me laugh. It brings back Jesse's brother, Pete and his boyfriend, Cameron from The Gentleman but it can be read as a stand alone.
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.
4.5 stars Emil is a Master's psych student who just had to move into a new apartment. He is smart, cute, nerdy, and lonely. He is the dichotomy of awkw4.5 stars Emil is a Master's psych student who just had to move into a new apartment. He is smart, cute, nerdy, and lonely. He is the dichotomy of awkward nerd and kinky sex explorer. When he receives a note from a neighbor across the way saying they have a direct view to Emil's bedroom it starts a chain of events that one might call fate or others just dumb luck.
Christian is a tall, dark, handsome, and just the right blend of masc and femme. Skirts are his signature item and he is a talented semester. His life is changing too and he is starting a new work venture.
As their home and work lives intertwine more, they find themselves getting closer. Emil thrives as an exhibitionist and craves attention and blissed-out euphoria. Christian is his understanding voyeur who actually sees and appreciates Emil for who he is but can also anchor him when needed. But they both have their own fears, insecurities, and issues stemming from the past that have marked them and cause them to worry about trying for more.
Emil and Christian. Felix and Vixen. Exhibitionist and Voyeur. Neighbors. Friends. Co-workers. Lovers. Crushes. All the feels.
Their chemistry is amazing, but it is their intimacy and emotional connection that really makes this couple so wonderful. I liked that they communicated, understood, anticipated each other's needs, and there was not a lot of unnecessary relationship angst muddying up their love story.
This story is spicy for sure, but it is also sweet, adorable, witty, and emotional. It's a story about trust, acceptance, safety, understanding, healing, and dealing with past pain. These two are so perfectly matched in and out of the bedroom and I loved how they saw the other for their true selves and encouraged the other to embrace all that they are. And as usual, the Elite 8 guys make such good friends and found family. They also always add some comic relief.
4.5 stars Bishop Sullivan is the heir to large ranch and the perfect son of an affluent family. He is a dependable, capable, and loyal boss. He has bee4.5 stars Bishop Sullivan is the heir to large ranch and the perfect son of an affluent family. He is a dependable, capable, and loyal boss. He has been married but his most significant relationship was the one that left him without answers over a decade ago.
Porter Dixon was raised under the losing side of their family history and ended up with no land and limited resources. He has always been broody, guarded, impulsive, and hot-headed. But when he lived on the Sullivan ranch as a teen, he and Bishop had a hot secret affair. But circumstances and miscommunication caused Porter to take off and leave them both broken-hearted but also unaware of the depth of the other's feelings.
Now eleven years later, Porter is back on the Sullivan ranch. He has gained ranch experience and is a horse whisperer. New Boss Bishop is now face to face with the one that got away. It's easy to fall back into a secretive affair, but will they admit how much their hearts are involved this time. Bishop is a man with a lot of responsibility and has never shared his sexuality with anyone but Porter. And Porter has a wild untamed heart and never really felt completely safe and like he had a true home. Can Sully be the one who fully embraces it and tames it?
My heart broke for these guys for what they lost and how afraid they were to trust again and hope for something more in the future. This is a teenage lovers and first loves, second chance, hurt-comfort-boss-employee, secret, cowboy romance about trust, vulnerability, and finding where you belong. There are plenty of colorful side characters adding depth and drama and even the horses have important roles. I would love to see more with some of them but this is also an enjoyable stand-alone story that had me invested in the characters and the rich ranch setting.
4.5 stars After a night of what Perry thought was flirting with an inebriated cutie named Theo, he thought the next day they were meeting up for a hook4.5 stars After a night of what Perry thought was flirting with an inebriated cutie named Theo, he thought the next day they were meeting up for a hookup. But sweet clueless Theo had no idea he was being flirted with, and he just thought he was making a new friend. So the hookup is off but they actually find they do enjoy hanging out in each other's company and become new friends.
Along the way, Theo begins to be a little bit less clueless about how he is actually reacting to his friend. And those reactions lead to a redo of the hookup mix-up to a hookup that they are both up for. But Perry is clear he only wants fun and no relationship. And Theo is celebrating his new bi-awakening and how it makes him feel more confident and special, but he knows he’s going to have to be careful not to give away his heart.
An exclusive supposedly sex-only friends-with-benefits situation should be easy to keep messy feelings from complicating it. Right?
I honestly liked these two a lot and thought they were just adorable and hot together. Theo is awkward, cute, clueless, sweet, sunshiny, but lacks self-confidence and struggles in some ways. Perry is more confident, easy-going, and comfortable in his sexuality. But he also has some deep-seated issues that stem from his family dynamics causing abandonment issues and making him fearful of getting hurt. So there’s a little bit of hurt mixed up with the fun frolics and there’s just this genuine natural affection between these two that does them both so much good. They inspire each other and become catalysts for change, healing, and growth, and help each other find acceptance, happiness, and purpose.
4.5 stars Sidney Tanner is always in trouble but it is usually because she is covering for other people. But she is also outspoken, stubborn, smart, an4.5 stars Sidney Tanner is always in trouble but it is usually because she is covering for other people. But she is also outspoken, stubborn, smart, anxious, and has trust issues. Her favorite time of year is Halloween and October when her best friend comes to stay for a month each year.
Ford Prescott comes to Harvest Grove every October and has for six years. But he is busy running his family's logging camp most of the year and enjoys his month in town and spending time with Sidney. He is big, gruff, protective, generous, rich, and is a fixer. He is a bit of an enigma and a quiet, analytical thinker. He has always said he was anti-relationship as well, and is used to feeling like he lets people down.
This is an interesting setup. They have been stuck in the friend zone for six years both assuming the other does not have a romantic interest in the other. But there is more going on behind the scenes. But this year things might be a bit different. Sidney is not sure exactly what is going on, but Ford seems to be flirtier and dirtier with her and stepping out of the friend zone. But they both have trust issues and a lot to lose if they mess this up, and oh my these two are not the best at communicating about things that are really important
This is a snappy, funny, slow-burn, spicy, friends-to-lovers rom-com set in a Halloween town full of quirky and mischievous characters and there are lots of over-the-top shenanigans. I loved Ford especially once we got into his head to see his true feelings. He is just so caring, attentive, protective, thoughtful, sexy, and swoony. And Sidney is a hot mess, but has a big heart. They are just so sweet and hot together. I liked that there were more layers to the story than it originally seemed, and that there were some surprises and twists.
It definitely puts you in the fall and Halloween spirit as these people are serious about their holiday. There are plenty of wild side characters causing trouble, especially her sister and cousin.
4.5 stars Sidney Tanner is always in trouble but it is usually because she is covering for other people. But she is also outspoken, stubborn, smart, anxious, and has trust issues. Her favorite time of year is Halloween and October when her best friend comes to stay for a month each year.
Ford Prescott comes to Harvest Grove every October and has for six years. But he is busy running his family's logging camp most of the year and enjoys his month in town and spending time with Sidney. He is big, gruff, protective, generous, rich, and is a fixer. He is a bit of an enigma and a quiet, analytical thinker. He has always said he was anti-relationship as well, and is used to feeling like he lets people down.
This is an interesting setup. They have been stuck in the friend zone for six years both assuming the other does not have a romantic interest in the other. But there is more going on behind the scenes. But this year things might be a bit different. Sidney is not sure exactly what is going on, but Ford seems to be flirtier and dirtier with her and stepping out of the friend zone. But they both have trust issues and a lot to lose if they mess this up, and oh my these two are not the best at communicating about things that are really important
This is a snappy, funny, slow-burn, spicy, friends-to-lovers rom-com set in a Halloween town full of quirky and mischievous characters and there are lots of over-the-top shenanigans. I loved Ford especially once we got into his head to see his true feelings. He is just so caring, attentive, protective, thoughtful, sexy, and swoony. And Sidney is a hot mess, but has a big heart. They are just so sweet and hot together. I liked that there were more layers to the story than it originally seemed, and that there were some surprises and twists.
It definitely puts you in the fall and Halloween spirit as these people are serious about their holiday. There are plenty of wild side characters causing trouble, especially her sister and cousin.
4.5 to 5 stars This is an inspiring and heartfelt story of luck(good and bad), resilience, and dealing with life changes.
Faye Gannon is a struggling yo4.5 to 5 stars This is an inspiring and heartfelt story of luck(good and bad), resilience, and dealing with life changes.
Faye Gannon is a struggling young waitress just trying to get through school and help take care of her sister although no one has ever really taken care of her. It seems like she goes from one setback to another and luck never seems to be on her side.
Rush Ramsey is the Treasure State Wildcats' golden boy and quarterback. He is handsome, popular, smart, funny, and has his whole life planned out including an NFL career.
A chance encounter made them both take a closer look at their lives and when they meet again they share another intense night. But both nights were catalysts for change and now they are dealing with the consequences.
Faye is guarded, stubborn, emotionally unavailable, and fiercely independent. She does not like to be vulnerable, trust, or show how scared she is. And Rush is a planner, protective, and pretty smitten. But He has to walk a fine line between letting Faye have her pride and trying to help her.
These two have a lot of challenges and decisions to make. They really have to work through fears, insecurities, miscommunication, and their own stubbornness. I really liked them both as individuals and together. But I was waiting somewhat impatiently for Faye to finally let her guard down a bit. But at the same time, I could understand why she was the way she was so it only made it sweeter to see how Rush wanted to make her feel safe and cared for. These two have to fight their own fears and for their futures and happiness, but I was rooting for them the whole way. Rally is the perfect title for this story.
The family and friend dynamics add complexities to the plot. His roommate Maverick was annoying through a lot of this one but he was also dealing with some things, and I cannot wait for someone to knock him down a peg or two in the next book, Merit.
4.5 stars Morgan Swift is heading home to Birchbark due to a sense of family duty. But the problem is that his family is broken due to shared grief and4.5 stars Morgan Swift is heading home to Birchbark due to a sense of family duty. But the problem is that his family is broken due to shared grief and loss and he has not been home in ten years since running away from his best friend and family. He has been living in Santa Monica, focusing on work, guarding his heart, and keeping his past buried.
Dusty James was his best friend and his everything. He was there for Morgan through his tumultuous childhood and pain and was his first love even if he never admitted it. But when he perceived that Dusty had betrayed him, he left and never came back. But seeing Dusty now brings back all of the unresolved feelings good and bad.
Dusty was always in love with Morgan but was afraid to tell him. And now that he is back, he knows his heart is in danger again. He has always been intertwined with the Swift brothers and is friends with the other brothers Rhett and Easton. He is the peacemaker and fixer. But these brothers and their family might be too far gone to fix. And as much as they care about each other, Morgan is not sure he can stay due to his grief and toxic family, and Dusty is not sure he can leave his home.
This is an emotional and messy, hurt-comfort, second-chance love story about coming home, facing demons, repairing friendships and family, and finding hope and healing. I loved Morgan and Dusty together and their special bond. It was forged in childhood friendship, shared pain and history, and rekindled into an even stronger connection and sparked into hot chemistry and true love. I liked that as adults they actually communicated, were honest, and did not want to waste any more time. But there is definitely more story to tell with these complicated and damaged Swift brothers and this small town. I am looking forward to more with Easton, Rhett, Archer, and Cass.
4.5 stars Cody Bilson is leaving his team in Seattle to move to Nashville and he’s also hoping to leave all of his ex-wives and drama behind and focus 4.5 stars Cody Bilson is leaving his team in Seattle to move to Nashville and he’s also hoping to leave all of his ex-wives and drama behind and focus on his new team. He’s a guy who believes in love and falls into it fast then ends up in marriages that don’t last. So now he’s on a celibacy streak and determined not to make the same mistakes again. But he might need a little help keeping out of trouble
Miles Olson is the rookie goalie on the Nashville team. He presents this air of cockiness to hide his nerves. He is young, green, competitive, and charismatic. He wants to be an important member of the team and make friends and he latches on to Bilson. They have great banter and have fun taunting each other. They are both supposedly straight, even though Miles admits he likes some different things in the bedroom. But when Miles tries to be Cody's wingman to execute a plan to get them both laid with no attachments it falls through. So they end up, trying to take care of business themselves in a bromantic, sex-only non-emotional kind of way. They never expected their own reactions to something they never really considered. And their hot chemistry begins to give way to confusing thoughts and feelings.
I loved seeing them develop a friendship, bromance, and then start to get under each other's skin and challenge what they thought they knew about themselves. These guys are fun and a bit clueless and the kings of denial for a while. I loved how they could make fun of each other, but they were also truly each other‘s best friend and support. They both had some things that they needed to feel secure and they balanced and understood each other well.
This is an age gap, double bi-awaking, teammates and friends, bromance and secret brolationship story between two hockey players. It brings back other players and friends from the Queer Collective. I hope that a little tease in this book about some brothers might be the next book and it seems they have some exciting plans coming up.
4.5+ stars This book has an interesting premise and kept me invested in these characters. Pete is a man who thrives on control, order, and cleanliness.4.5+ stars This book has an interesting premise and kept me invested in these characters. Pete is a man who thrives on control, order, and cleanliness. He is responsible, good in a crisis, a hard worker, and deals with crap at work that he should not have to. But that is what happens when you work in a good old boy company that is ruled by money and nepotism.
Cameron Fairbanks is the youngest son of the owner of the company, but he does not get any special treatment. He feels like the unappreciated and misunderstood son and he also has a big secret. And he is ready to finally explore things and have firsts with a man who might understand and guide him so that he would be able to eventually find his own man someday.
He thought there was an obvious sign to pick Pete as his gay guide. But come to find out Pete was definitely surprised...not only by Cam's request but also by his own response. Now Pete is questioning everything he knew about himself and acting out of character. And Cam does not know the whole story either. These two find themselves getting deeper into something that neither was really prepared for. It was delightful to see these two fumble along blindly into unexpected and messy feelings while exploring new things together. They have hot chemistry, great banter, and actually seem to understand each other.
But what happens behind closed doors might be safe, but they work and live in an environment that would probably not be accepting. There are a lot of complicated family and workplace dynamics adding tension.
This is a witty, passionate, heartwarming, hurt-comfort, workplace, forbidden, bi-awakening/gay discovery romance between two men who have been conditioned to believe they are not good enough. But together they find trust, safety, passion, understanding, and acceptance. They help each other find self-worth, purpose, and appreciation for things they might have taken for granted. I loved how they balanced each other out and tried to help each other become the best version of themselves. I feel like the author handled Pete's particular issues honestly and I enjoyed seeing how Cam responded to him. I totally fell for these two guys and enjoyed some of the side characters although I would have been happy to gut-punch some others. I kind of want to know more about Cameron's friend, Brice.