Ryld's Shadow brings us four books deep into the Aura world - books that should absolutely be read in order - and I'm happy to see that this series isRyld's Shadow brings us four books deep into the Aura world - books that should absolutely be read in order - and I'm happy to see that this series is only getting better. Once again, the world-building and character development are awesome. The continuity with the series and within the book is amazing, because the author included the right amount of information from the previous installments for the reader to feel well grounded in the overall plotline and completely invested in the story.
This book is fast paced and compelling, with enough introspection and dialogue, action, mystery, humor, suspense and romance... never a dull or boring moment. And, the selling point of the story is represented by a broad cast of characters and their relationships. Of course, the heart of the book is the built up of feelings and trust between Ryld and Hank, but the plotline is moved forward not only by romance, and I really appreciated that.
The balance of plot development, character growth and romance built-up in Ryld's Shadow is top notch... an exciting read from beginning to the end....more
Stronger Than Hope is a sweet, funny and romantic story, with two amazingly portrayed protagonists. Linc and Nate are real, flawed and simply great guStronger Than Hope is a sweet, funny and romantic story, with two amazingly portrayed protagonists. Linc and Nate are real, flawed and simply great guys. They've experienced loss and hurt in different ways, and there was such gentleness to both that I immediately fell in love with them.
The story had plenty heartbreaking moments, but they were balanced by laugh out loud ones, mostly because Nate was an adorable walking disaster. And then there was Beckett, Linc's son, and his cuteness brightened up even the saddest situation. What I appreciated was that Beckett was integral to the story, not peripheral to the development of the relationship between Linc and Nate. That way, more than a romance, Stronger Than Hope was the story of how Linc, Beckett and Nate became a family.
I really enjoyed this story and I can't recommend it enough. It will absolutely make you smile, tug at your heartstrings and leave you with the gooey feelings of two men and the cutest kid who find new happiness and family together. ...more
The author created quite an original world for this book. A richly designed system of magic, with various species, gods and different realms. A colorfThe author created quite an original world for this book. A richly designed system of magic, with various species, gods and different realms. A colorful cast of characters and different POVs, their destinies decided by prophecies and the wishes of capricious gods. A mission and a journey, a fight against evil that didn't predict a happy ending for people on the good side.
With a complex storyline that is obviously a product of imagination and amazing plotting, Stone of Power kept me engaged and on the edge of my seat. A must read....more
This is fun! Great writing and storytelling, and great characters. Most of the book sets the world, really, through the perspectives of Skylar and HorThis is fun! Great writing and storytelling, and great characters. Most of the book sets the world, really, through the perspectives of Skylar and Horace. Some time after the end of the segregation war, in a non-shifter a/o/b world, where omegas are worth very little and alphas aren't usually more than beasts led by primal instincts. The main characters break the mold, so to speak, and I really liked that. Skylar is an atypical omega: big, all fire and passion and gumption... and the leader of a gang of thieves. And Horace is an atypical alpha, in a self-imposed isolation, alone at his ranch, intended to fight his natural impulses... and the man hired to catch Skylar dead or alive.
Horace does catch Skylar, and things between them move kind of in a predictable way. And fast. Omega in heat plus alpha confined in a cave - you can imagine. But I really liked them as individuals and especially as bonded mates: imperfect yet perfect for each other.
I enjoyed reading this and I recommend it to anyone looking for an historical alpha/omega romance with a western setting and a happy ending....more
Fake boyfriends, age gap, first time with a man, Daddy/boy dynamic - quite so much packed into this story. Owen and Keegan have been kind of sending sFake boyfriends, age gap, first time with a man, Daddy/boy dynamic - quite so much packed into this story. Owen and Keegan have been kind of sending signal of attraction to each other for months, neither intending to actually make the first move. And then Keegan offered to accompany Owen to his ex's wedding and they had a taste of what they could have together.
I really enjoyed this story, mainly because the author didn't overly-play Owen and Keegan's doubts about having a relationship. Instead, their romance was sweet, light and touching. Just two men who took a bit to see that they belonged together and, once they did, tried everything in their power to make things work between them.
It was also nice to see that the characters from the previous books in the series played an important role in supporting Owen and Keegan. Can't get enough of these guys and I hope to see more of them in the future. ...more
I don't think it's possible for me to not love a Roe Horvat book, because this author always delivers awesome stories with completely lovable protagoI don't think it's possible for me to not love a Roe Horvat book, because this author always delivers awesome stories with completely lovable protagonists. This one was no different. Sebastian is totally charming, Jonah is gloriously alpha, and their whole relationship development is a complete romp. Very high heat, with a bunch of steamy scenes that I can't get out of my head, but it's the built up of feelings between Sebastian and Jonah that really stands out.
This is such a compelling story that I basically read it in one sitting. Loved seeing this pair getting together and I'm excited for the second part of their journey....more
Every new book set at Farthigdale Ranch is a treat for me, but I was especially excited for Levi's story. I couldn't wait to see what he hid behind hiEvery new book set at Farthigdale Ranch is a treat for me, but I was especially excited for Levi's story. I couldn't wait to see what he hid behind his gruff exterior and curious to find out who would win his heart. Well, Levi and Cassidy definitely won ...more
I found Scars That Bind Us to be a solid opener to this author's new series. The world building in this book blew me away and I liked the fact that thI found Scars That Bind Us to be a solid opener to this author's new series. The world building in this book blew me away and I liked the fact that the history and culture were introduced mostly through dialogue and observations, rather than by ways of inner musings or info dump. The narrative is amazingly paced and I honestly got lost in the story, completely captivated by the events and the characters.
For me, this was definitely a character driven story. Not just Madeo and Cosmo, but all the supporting characters were well rounded and interesting. Special care was given to relationships built within Madeo's family and Cosmo's pride, just as important as the growing attraction between the protagonists. I enjoyed getting to know them all and witnessing the strengthening feelings between Madeo and Cosmo.
Suspense, dangers, angst, humor, magic, dynamic characters, romance and so much more within its pages made this a sit down and read in one go kinda of book. It also left me wanting more and I'm excited for this series to continue....more
All the happiness-filled hearts for this wonderful story. It's short and simple and at the same time absolutely fulfilling and heartwarming... and theAll the happiness-filled hearts for this wonderful story. It's short and simple and at the same time absolutely fulfilling and heartwarming... and the main characters haven't even talked to each other for most of the book. No doubt, this author has a magical talent for putting emotions on paper, creating what I could only call small written pills of joy, guaranteed to put a huge, swoony smile on my face even in my gloomiest days.
I loved Secrets on a Train and can't recommend it enough!...more
Little Red is so much fun! The author took a classic fairytale and retold it in an inventive manner, building a complex and interesting world. The stLittle Red is so much fun! The author took a classic fairytale and retold it in an inventive manner, building a complex and interesting world. The storytelling is great and I was caught in the tale from beginning to the end.
A quest, a villain, a motley crew of quirky characters, magic, well rounded protagonists in Ryder and Bane and their touching romance. A fast moving plot filled with and surprises, and sweet, humorous and tension filled moments made for an exciting read. Amusing, twisty-turvy and emotionally charged, this story is definitely an entertaining diversion if you need a smile....more
For me, who I've most definitely been daydreaming during the class on The Republic of Venice in school, The Ballot Boy was an utterly fascinating readFor me, who I've most definitely been daydreaming during the class on The Republic of Venice in school, The Ballot Boy was an utterly fascinating read. The author brings a tome that can be considered educational on ...more
What a gorgeous story! Adrian and Fitz are delightful! I loved them as friends and seeing how attuned they were despite obviously complete opposites. What a gorgeous story! Adrian and Fitz are delightful! I loved them as friends and seeing how attuned they were despite obviously complete opposites. I loved their complicity and support for one another, and I adored them when they realized they could be so much more than friends.
A no-angst, no rush shift in the relationship between two best friends who finally saw what they had under their noses, in a fun, sweet and romantic story that made me so, so happy. Definitely a recommended read....more
Just like any other book by this author I've read, this novel had everything I wanted: a flowing writing style that was easy to get lost into, a touchJust like any other book by this author I've read, this novel had everything I wanted: a flowing writing style that was easy to get lost into, a touching romance, and stunning characters- deep, human and flawed. I was given the chance to know Ronan and Gabriel inside and out. They became relatable, by providing them with believable dialogue that flowed really well and placing them in situations and predicaments that resonate with me.
Ronan and Gabriel weren't by any means perfect and weren't even trying to be. They've made mistakes in the past and will probably make bad choices in the future, but they were trying to do right by their friends, family, and ultimately themselves. The author had me rooting for them from page one. Despite all the circumstances that seemed against them, I was so cheering for them to get their HEA together. Ronan and Gabriel's romance was fantastically paced, not instalove and not quite slow burn. The genuine connection between them built amazingly with the physical attraction, so soulfully written to the point where I could really feel them fall in love... while me, as a witness to their journey, fell completely in love with them.
This isn't just a romance, though. It also explores friendship and family, and finding your biggest supporters where and when you least expect them. And somehow, the author managed to construct a plot that built up in tension and conflict, while strengthening the sweet feelings between the protagonists.
I loved it! Such a moving, engaging story, and guaranteed to lighten up with happiness other little romantic hearts like mine....more
This collection is immensely fun to read! It gave me exactly what Matthew Bright promises in the introduction: stories "This collection is immensely fun to read! It gave me exactly what Matthew Bright promises in the introduction: stories "...more
Wren's isn't exactly a life, just a rinse and repeat of the same motions every day. And then a captivating stranger shows up and says he needs Wren's Wren's isn't exactly a life, just a rinse and repeat of the same motions every day. And then a captivating stranger shows up and says he needs Wren's help. In another realm. So Wren's life suddenly becomes full of excitement and dangers, with the possibility of happiness and romance if he and Shrike survive their quest.
The action moves from the human realm to the magic one and I was so caught up in this story that reality slipped away. The writing is amazing and vividly detailed, the plot engrossing and incredibly paced, fast moving and eventful. Wren and Shrike are greatly developed, and I was completely invested in their lives, cheering for their happiness.
I recommend this book to anyone looking for an immersive adventure filled with magic, interesting characters, action and romance....more
This book offers so much to a reader. A complex protagonist in Asagi, interesting secondary characters and an involved storyline. I liked the historicThis book offers so much to a reader. A complex protagonist in Asagi, interesting secondary characters and an involved storyline. I liked the historical setting of Japan, it was amazing and detailed, but it was not an easy read. Brutal, violent and heartbreaking, actually, with just a few light moments to ease the dark overall theme.
Be mindful of the warnings, but do give this book a chance. It's worth the emotional rollercoaster and the intense introduction to Japanese lore. ...more
This is epic! EPIC! I admit, the first few pages I didn't know what to believe. Romily, the narrator, kept meeting this guy loaded to the gills with wThis is epic! EPIC! I admit, the first few pages I didn't know what to believe. Romily, the narrator, kept meeting this guy loaded to the gills with weapons who got involved in these mass killings, which Romily witnessed. You gotta admit it was a bit weird, right? Soon enough, the guy got a name, Fox, and offered Romily a job as his Harbinger. Don't know what that means? I can't tell you, because you definitely have to read this book and find out for yourselves.
And I promise you'll have immense fun reading it, especially if you're a fan of over the top, silly, snarky, sometimes ridiculous humor. Consider that Romily is mute, and he still managed to crack me up every page of this book. A lot of craziness was involved, eccentric and captivating characters, paranormal action, twists and surprises. No angst, slow romantic buildup, some danger and gore...a total winner for me!...more
I love what this author is doing with Painted Bay! With all the same sex pairings happening, this small community will never be the same after Jay HogI love what this author is doing with Painted Bay! With all the same sex pairings happening, this small community will never be the same after Jay Hogan finishes this series. I have the best fun seeing how the people of Painted Bay openly welcome each new person and couple that find a home there...the newest addition being the partnering up of Abe and Kane.
Well, Abe was supposed to have just a quick, six weeks long stay in town. A nomad, rootless and unwilling to be tied down to only one place...until he met Kane. Kane, who was desperate to belong, aching for love because he's never had it, eaten up by guilt and longing for a family that would accept him. Alone, lonely, on the fringes looking in, unseen. But Abe saw him, his kindness, his warm heart, his pain. They gravitated toward one another, they found a sounding board in each other, and they got closer and closer one sensual tango step at a time.
Abe and Kane together were wonderful and I have so many feelings for them. Never someone deserved a second chance or had a right to happiness, as much as Kane. He had done a terrible thing as a teenager and was still paying the price. But Abe opened a world of possibilities for Kane, gave his full acceptance, love and support, and in return, he offered a home and stability.
This wasn't Kane's redemption story, but of how he finally forgave himself and found forgiveness. It's the story of Kane and Abe falling in love, yet, what I really appreciated was that it wasn't only about them. The characters from the previous books didn't just make passing appearances, but were integral to events, their own stories also moving forward. Lives intertwined, influencing one another, growing and shifting together. A family, sharing happy moments and troubled ones, even fighting every once in a while, but always there, supporting each other. I love them all and I've become completely invested in their lives, and that's why every new book in Painted Bay series is like visiting old friends and making new ones. Can't wait to meet them all again in the next installment! ...more
**spoiler alert** This is my first book by Samantha Sorelle and I'm happy to say that I have a new author to add to my favorite list.
The writing is s**spoiler alert** This is my first book by Samantha Sorelle and I'm happy to say that I have a new author to add to my favorite list.
The writing is so good that I was immediately sucked into the story. Trevor set foot in Nana O'Neill's convinced the bakery would provide him material for his next cutting review, only to discover himself in love with the pastries and, albeit reluctantly, utterly intrigued by its grumpy, scrumptious owner.
Sparks flew between Trevor and Owen, and not in a good way, from the moment they set eyes on each other. They were ...more
&DFN. I have to give credit to this author, the world they've built is complex, with a great amount of characters. Kudos for the creativity and the ab&DFN. I have to give credit to this author, the world they've built is complex, with a great amount of characters. Kudos for the creativity and the ability to create different people, each with their roles, and engage them in a complicated plotline. That notwithstanding, I couldn't get into the story. The writing style wasn't in any way fluid, weighted with unnecessary words and phrase twirls. I tried, but I simply couldn't get a good grip on the plotline or keep any kind of interest for what was happening. I will, though, give a chance to any future books by this author, because I honestly think they have great potential to write amazing stories....more
Anabela.M.
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