I loved these characters so much. Cooper was a Stern Brunch Daddy Cinnamon Roll for Trix, he's younger brothThis was so engaging, right from the jump!
I loved these characters so much. Cooper was a Stern Brunch Daddy Cinnamon Roll for Trix, he's younger brother's ex-girlfriend. He comes in like a White Knight, right from the beginning. Starting with something as simple as getting her past the gate guard and eventually becoming her refuge from a stalker. Then even fake dates her for protection as well.
It's not a real hardship for him because he has secretly pinned after her for a while. He was never gonna make a move when she was with his brother, but now that they are over and she's back in town. He's thinking it might be time to back away from the playboy lifestyle and try something more serious. He has always been careful because he is a Pro-footballer and a single dad. But Trix is just the woman to change all that.
Unfortunately, she's not looking for anything serious and even has a sexy checklist of naughty things to try out now that she's a free woman. But when Cooper accidentally hears her list, which happens to mention him... he steps in to help her.
We do have a stalker in the background, which is what urges them into the fake dating scenario. I liked the subtle level of suspense it added and having already read Bull Rush, I liked seeing what Ramsey's role in it all was.
Narrated by Lucy Rivers and Dane Anderson. They were just stunning. This was a very addictive audio book.
5 Stars 3.5 on the spice scale
CW: Stalking, violence, sleep paralysis
*Thank you to Must Love Audio and the author for an ALC of this title.*...more
This series never skimps on the heart-rending moments. When I open one of Cate C Wells' books, I never quite know what I'm in for, but that is always This series never skimps on the heart-rending moments. When I open one of Cate C Wells' books, I never quite know what I'm in for, but that is always certain. However, it makes the payoff so much sweeter. When everything clicks together, it gives such relief. Justus and Annie have a lot of baggage and pain they bring to the table, but we know their bond will win out in the end.
That being said, it is hard to read at times. There is so much angst, it makes your guts tight for a good bit of the story. Each time I would open my kindle back up, I would do it with one eye open. Then we only get a little bit of happiness before we have to say goodbye. I wanted to see them happy together for a bit more page time.
Overall though, the was a great book for fans of the series. The Last Pack are wolves we've been curious about for ages. There's so much about them we want to know and Justus is our key to it all. He may have screwed up with his first mating with Annie but his devotion is unending and he only wants to make it right. There's something so sweet about that.
Also, the pups were ADORABLE! Haha!
4 stars 2 on the spice scale
CW: past trauma, violence, partially morphing bodies, hunting of animals for food
*Thank you to the author for an ARC of this title.*...more
This is one of my favorite Friends to Lovers Romances I have read all year! Asher & Maeve were just so in sync and such good friends. I loved them togThis is one of my favorite Friends to Lovers Romances I have read all year! Asher & Maeve were just so in sync and such good friends. I loved them together SO much!
I loved how well they communicated (for the most part), how well they supported each other and I LOVED how they fell in love. Because it honestly felt so real. Maybe not their reasoning for a Vegas marriage and staying married seemed a bit *too* convenient, but I was sold by just how adorable they were together.
They knew one another so well and had been there through thick and thin. Everyone kinda knows they are meant to be and is just waiting for them to catch up. There's a specific moment when Asher finally realizes how gone he's been and for how long... it was so touching. They were just perfect.
This series from Lauren Blakely has just been so great! Low angst but high fun and great connections. It doesn't feel all about the spice even though the steam in here is VERY good. It all feels so intense because of their feelings for one another and I love that. I'm really excited she's announced 5 books total.
Narrated by Vanessa Edwin & Robert Hatchet in duet style! They were just a delight!
5 stars 3.5 on the spice scale
CW: Grief
*Thank you to the author for an ARC & ALC of this title.*...more
Well, you better strap yourself in and hold on tight! This book was a wild ride right from the jump! From a whirlwind meeting to a sexy one night stanWell, you better strap yourself in and hold on tight! This book was a wild ride right from the jump! From a whirlwind meeting to a sexy one night stand, a secret baby and a clandestine reunion... Filthy Savage just doesn't quit! Fionn and Amara were electric together and they just clicked the night they met.
Amara just so happened to go by a fake name that night and after dumping her abusive boyfriend and going to a wedding with Fionn (yes, the same night!) She doesn't think he'll ever look for her. Too bad he doesn't even have the chance because he's now searching for an "Emily" that doesn't exist.
When they run into each other years later. Things have changed quite a bit. Fionn is in the middle of mob business and Amara sees more than she should. When he tracks down the little spy, he discovers his dream girl... and her sweet little daughter. Yup. Oops! Now there is more to that situation, of course, so don't judge it too harshly off that description. I really liked the Secret Baby aspect actually. And I'm a hard sell for those.
Once Fionn has her in his arms again, he ain't ever letting his woman go. Whether she's compliant or not. She's his.
Now, all that is good. I had a great time overall. I just have a few tiny issues. I'm starting to feel a very similar vibe from each and every hero in this series and previous ones. They all like some kink. They all are possessive in the same way. It just starts to feel very same-y.
Anyway! This was still a decent Mafia Romance and if you like some revenge against an ex, this has a particular treat for you.
The Seven Dukes of Sin are up to their old tricks. This one involves a house party, a forbidden bet, and a sizzling slow burn between a naughty Duke aThe Seven Dukes of Sin are up to their old tricks. This one involves a house party, a forbidden bet, and a sizzling slow burn between a naughty Duke and his best friend's sister.
I liked Lucien and Chastity quite a bit! Their journey is of friends to lovers but they become slightly rivals at a house party being held by the Duke of Pryde. They are both determined to win and they put a lot on the line.
I loved watching Chastity blossom and challenge Lucien. It's rare to read HR's with Friends to Lovers, as it's not the most popular trope to use. But this was done really well.
This was a very slow burn, so be prepared for that. But when we get into the nitty gritty, this was truly moving. I even teared up at the end of this one. So sweet!
Narrated by Shane East and Justine Eyre. They were just wonderful!
4 stars 2 on the spice scale
CW: past trauma, death of a family member
*Thank you to Must Love Audio and the author for an ALC of this title.*...more
If you like a bit of a Beauty and the Beast in your romance, this will hit the spot!
Okay, let's get the obvious out of the way. The names are a *bit* If you like a bit of a Beauty and the Beast in your romance, this will hit the spot!
Okay, let's get the obvious out of the way. The names are a *bit* too on point. Yes, all the men are Dukes, which makes up a solid 1/4 of all the total Dukes in England but hey... no worries. Yes, they are all best friends. Yes, they all have some type of seggsual deviancy that requires a club to act out. Sure sure sure. Cool Cool Cool.
Whew! There, I got that off my chest. I just HAD to say it okay?! I'm aware.
But I DID have a good time with this romance. It has a lot of things I love and once I got into the thick of it, I let those criticisms melt away.
Rath enters into a marriage of convenience with the youngest sister of a man he wronged. Hoping to get some small type of redemption and also appease his aging aunt, whom he adores. He is not expecting to find Patience so tempting. She refuses to be cowed by his coldness and that sets him off balance. He definitely doesn't expect her to push his buttons or crave his specific type of discipline.
Patience is a sacrifice on the altar of marriage to save her family from the poor house. Since she lost her older brother, nothing has gone right. She may find her new husband intimidating and alluring but his rules and his temper refuse to let her get close. Good thing she has a will as enduring as her name implies.
Watching them grow closer was beautiful and seeing Dorian grow to trust and love his young wife was just lovely. She challenged him and pushed him. He encouraged her dreams (she loves Botany, who knew?) and makes big changes he never thought possible. They were so sweet together.
Finally, I have to say it... are we *really* gonna have all the heroine's names be the virtue to our hero's vice? Rath & Patience, Luhst & Chastity, will Pryde be with a.. Modesty, perhaps? I don't know.. it's a bit too...much.
Like I said, once I got into it, I was into it, but it's a bit too on the nose at times.
Narrated to perfection by Shane East and Justine Eyre. I can guarantee that I rated this book higher because of this talent. The book was good and I was entertained but it was SOLD to me by this pairing. I'll listen to this whole series because of them.
4 stars 2.5 on the spice scale
CW: SA (not to an MC), duels, violence, anger management issues, self harm
*Thank you to Must Love Audio & the author for an ALC of this title.*...more
I have been loving this series. Whenever there is a new audio from the Boston's Irresistible Billionaires series to sign up for, I run, not walk to doI have been loving this series. Whenever there is a new audio from the Boston's Irresistible Billionaires series to sign up for, I run, not walk to do so. They are very comforting in a way. Sweet, hot, and fun in so many ways. I just always have a good time.
This one was extra fun because we head to Vegas! And like pretty much always, it ends in a marriage. Or at least how it usually ends in a Romance Novel. This time around it's when Sorel is a runaway bride from her foiled wedding, and Mason is only too happy to whisk her away. He's been quietly pining for her and dreading her marriage to a fellow football player, so this is his chance.
He doesn't expect to get almost everything he's asking for in one go! A wedding, a hot hook up, and her undivided attention. Mason knows he'll have to make a good case, to keep this from being nothing more than a drunken mistake on Sorel's part. I loved watching him prove his worth.
Friends to Lovers is sometimes tricky to pull off, but this couple just felt so effortless. They aligned in so many ways. And nothing is quite as hot as many trying to prove himself worthy of the woman of his dreams.
Finally, I just really love this world. All the characters are so connected and it feels like a true family. When this series is finally done, I will be going back to read the other series.
Narrated by Dane Anderson and Emma Wilder. They made this one so fun and yet they brought the heat!
4.5 Stars 3.5 on the spice scale
CW: Cheating, violence, accidental pregnancy
*Thank you to Must Love Audio and the author for an ALC*...more
Awww, what a lovely end to a heartwarming series! I may have made a late entrance into this series, but I have enjoyed it quite thoroughly. It didn't Awww, what a lovely end to a heartwarming series! I may have made a late entrance into this series, but I have enjoyed it quite thoroughly. It didn't hurt that I've listened to them all and the narration from Zara Hampton-Brown and Shane East is top tier. The accents... hot damn!
This romance between Fyfe and Eilidh is a slow dance and smoldering burn. Long-time friends from a small town means that they've known each other through thick and thin. Fyfe is basically another brother when they are children, but her crush for him is far from sisterly. If only he would see her that way.
Fyfe is from a broken home and he was welcomed into the Adair family at a young age. Though he has always admired Eilidh, he hasn't let himself go there. The bond with her brother, Lewis and the rest of the family is too much to risk.
When Eilidh decides to end her acting career and move back to her hometown, she can't help but make her feelings known. Fyfe might not think he can love Eilidh like she deserves but he can't let anyone else have her either.
When we throw in a surprise daughter for Fyfe, they spend more and more time together and things just fall in line from there. It was so sweet how everyone just fell head over heels for Millie. She really bridged any gap that was left between them.
I highly recommend this series if you love small towns and Scottish brogues. You will be well served to grab the audio book and get swept away to a small town in the Highlands. Again, Zara and Shane are magnificent and I love any time they pair up for a story.
4.5 stars 3 on the spice scale
CW: stalking, child abandonment, child in danger, blackmail, and more
*Thank you to the author and Must Love Audio for an ALC of this title.*...more
I loved this one even more! So engaging, thrilling, sexy, and heartwarming.
Victoria Wilder is becoming a fast favorite of mine. Her stories are so comI loved this one even more! So engaging, thrilling, sexy, and heartwarming.
Victoria Wilder is becoming a fast favorite of mine. Her stories are so compelling and her characters feel so rich and lively.
Fiasco may be more dangerous than your average small town, but I really wannt visit. Are there any Foxx brothers left for me?
Burlesque and secrets, old threats and new chemistry. I loved watching the games Faye had to play clash with Lincoln's animosity. They both had reasons to be wary of one another, but as soon as they have a confrontation.... well, they are practically flammable.
I also loved their dynamic. It's not so much that either of them is in charge, but they do love to tease each other and change it up now and then. I also LOVED that, once Lincoln knows they are serious, he enjoys watching her performances and knowing she's coming home with him. I adore a possessive man, but I like it even more when he's confident and can share. Share at view, at least.
Finally, Lark & Lily, Lincs's daughters. They were adorable. There is also an adorable cow and dog that will steal your heart. That made this extra special.
I am in love with this series. I'm so impressed and I can't wait for Bourbon & Proof!
5 Stars 4 on the spice scale
CW: Violence and death on page, gore, violence toward women, discussion of deceased parents and family, discussion of animal death and cruelty, PTSD
*Thank you to the author for an ARC of this title.*...more
Get ready for gut punch after gut punch. No one does the angst with a payoff like Jewel e Ann.
The suffering is layers deep, but I waded through it becGet ready for gut punch after gut punch. No one does the angst with a payoff like Jewel e Ann.
The suffering is layers deep, but I waded through it because Jamie and Fitz love was beautiful. They both are reluctant for different reasons, but sometimes love is worth the jump.
The things they get hit with.. HURT!
But I never stopped rooting for them, and it made this bittersweet story so satisfying.
There were a few aspects that challenged me but it was worth the read.
I listened to an audio that was narrated by Ada Sinclair and Nelson Hobbs.
4 Stars 3 on the spice scale
CW: death, loss of parents and children, cancer, mental illness
*I received an ALC from NetGalley in exchange for my review.*...more
I will always be a romance reader, but some seasons are tougher than othersReread in 2025 for a Patron! . . .
No one writes me a romance like Julia Wolf.
I will always be a romance reader, but some seasons are tougher than others. Certain trends and styles can get annoying or make me frustrated. There is something I treasure about picking up a new book from Julia Wolf because I know she will put her all into whatever couple she has written.
I can feel her reverence for deep and abiding love come through on the page. It aches with trueness and bleeds sincerity. And though the couple may be idealized in many ways, they can also feel real. I've known couples like these and I do believe in love like this. It leaves me smiling and swooning constantly. There's just something extra special.
So going into the Kelly Ranch, I had nothing but high expectations. Those expectations were met and I cannot wait for more in this series. The Kelly's are a standout family in the Julia Wolf backlist for me, as with many fans, so I am so excited to dive deeper into their lives. Though I was chomping at the bit for more of Lock and Elena, I think she sprinkled in just enough without letting them take attention from our new couple.
There were some painful and real issues that Remi and Hannah have to face, and I felt the legitimate struggle for them. Pain of the past and misunderstandings, grief and heartbreak that have hardened hearts. But the journey to new love is beautiful.
I loved how the Kelly's were a Found Family for Remi and though they give him a hard time when he first returns, they welcome him in with open arms. I loved how Hannah gave him a hard time, yet as she learned more of the truth, she softened to him. They were quite the pair together and compatible in many ways.
And as always, the heat gets HOT in this one. They have some very sexy scenes, especially one in a truck where they just can't wait a second longer. So delightful.
Overall, this was absolutely another hit for me and Julia Wolf reigns supreme as a favorite author for me.
Like every good Holiday Romance, it takes place in a small town. There's a little bit of fate and a whole lotA unique little Holiday Romance novella!
Like every good Holiday Romance, it takes place in a small town. There's a little bit of fate and a whole lot of chemistry that brings them together. The winter solstice holds a little bit of magic in this place. It was fun to watch it all play out.
Gray is in a tough place as he transitions his career from player to coach. He and his brother are investing in a small coastal town but he's not planning to stay too long. But the Timekeeper Inn is where his parents met and fell in love, so there's just something that draws him there.
Aurora runs an inn with her adoptive mother and she is a bit dismayed that outsiders are butting into her livelihood. But then she meets Gray and they have an intense moments of insta-lust and she thinks maybe, just maybe, he could be the ONE. The one that fate has promised her.
So yeah, this story is a lot of insta-lust. But that's how novellas often go. I enjoyed their chemistry and the small town vibes. It was a nice story to pass the time.
Narrated in Duet Style by Tor Thom & Savannah Peachwood. They brought the story to live so well!
4 stars 3 on the spice scale
*Thank you to the author for an ALC of this title.*...more
This was a full-length, holiday adjacent romance. What I mean by that is it takes place during the winter season and covers both Christmas and New YeaThis was a full-length, holiday adjacent romance. What I mean by that is it takes place during the winter season and covers both Christmas and New Years. SO it works for the whole time!
This was an Ex-Boyfriend's Dad, Snowed In, Office Romance. Lots of great tropes and scenarios were squished into the tale and I enjoyed that so much! It was lower angst, since it's been awhile from when Ellie dated Fisher's son. So there wasn't a ton of tension for that at the start.
Their chemistry and mutual pining are very evident from the start. The easy camaraderie they share during the business day felt very natural. But there's just a tiny edge of flirting hinted at between them. When Ellie's well laid plans for a business retreat go awry, they find themselves snowed in for a week at the resort, in the same cabin no less.
They end up having a bit of a "screw it" moment and giving into their desires. And the rest is history! It so we would hope...
There was a lot I was loving about this one. But... as so often happens... the 3rd act was blown away out of proportion for me. I do NOT see why the hero was the one who owed all the explaining. That's my opinion though but it soured the last 20% for me. Ellie owed him a bit better than what she does. I don't agree that the decision should have been all hers. It disrespected the long standing relationship and connection they had.
Overall, this was good. Not everyone will be as annoyed as I was and it is good for a full length winter/holiday book.
3.5 stars (rounded up) 3 on the spice scale
CW: childless by choice, exhibitionism, and voyeurism
*Thank you to Grey's Promo and the author for an ARC of this title.*...more
I was glad I gave this one a go! It was surprisingly poignant and held a few surprises that kept me guessing. I thought Levi, Austen, and Kaylee were I was glad I gave this one a go! It was surprisingly poignant and held a few surprises that kept me guessing. I thought Levi, Austen, and Kaylee were really good together and sexy as all get out!
I've been wanting to read some more poly relationships where everyone loves each other and the connection is more than just physical. It starts with a threesome that leads to a bi-awakening and the decision for all three of them to date and be together.
I liked how supportive and understanding their teammates were and how supportive people were of this thruple. The communication between the three of them was great too. I loved that they encouraged all the aspects of the triad and they spent time getting to know one another better.
I did think they got together a bit too quickly and their was some manufactured drama in the 3rd act was unnecessary. I'm not even talking about the big TW that happened. They was sad but I thought it was handled well. It was other things that kinda didn't make sense and it soured the last 20% of the story for me.
Overall this was a lovely story. I would be open to another story from this author duo but it would depend on the situation.
I love Dystopian Romance and I also love some Fantasy. This book seemed to be right up my alley.
I just don't think I fully clicked with this story. I I love Dystopian Romance and I also love some Fantasy. This book seemed to be right up my alley.
I just don't think I fully clicked with this story. I was really drawn in by the beginning and I was so curious about this world. But after the initial flare of the start. I started to lose interest. I kept trying to get back into it, but it was never as great as I was initially hoping.
I love trying new authors and I would be open to giving this author another go.
3.5 stars (rounded up) 2 on the spice scale
*Thank you to the Nerd Fam for an ARC of this title.*...more
The best way I can describe this book is a part Mafia Romance, part Cozy Forced Proximity. I really haven't read a story quite like it before. I enjoyThe best way I can describe this book is a part Mafia Romance, part Cozy Forced Proximity. I really haven't read a story quite like it before. I enjoyed myself so much!
It has a grifter, a mafia boss, a kidnapping, and a secluded mountain hideaway. If you are a fan of an obsessed hero who is bent on convincing his woman to love him.. Declan is your man!
Declan O'Connor is completely swept off his feet when Joanna Tinsley steals $1.5 Million from him. Instead of being bent on killing her, like most men in the Mafia would be, he is determined to win her as his Queen. So he embarks on a three-year long journey to get her to give him a chance.
Honestly, this was just so charming. I was rooting for Declan but I understood Joanna's hesitation. Especially when he kidnaps her and takes her away to convince her they are meant to be. However, he is so earnest, it's hard not to be charmed by him.
This was a verrryyy slow burn. I was getting a tad frustrated with Joanna by a certain point. Not that women shouldn't have standards but, come on girl, you're a criminal too. Let's not not pretend you're too good for a Mafia King. lols!
At the end of it all, this is a *fairly* light-hearted Mafia tale. It's still a Dark Romance for content, but I truly do see this as a "Cozy" Mafia Romance. If you just let that be your mindset, I think this will be everything you are looking for.
4 stars 2.5 on the spice scale
CW: kidnapping, mentions of SA (historical and not to FMC), parental neglect and abuse, murder, organized crime
*Thank you to the author for an ARC of this title. Fair warning, I am friends with her but my opinions are my own.*...more
I will admit that Holiday novellas, romances, and themed stories are not my favorite thing. I'm rarely in a mood to focuThis was excellent! No notes!
I will admit that Holiday novellas, romances, and themed stories are not my favorite thing. I'm rarely in a mood to focus on a certain time of year. It's just something weird about me. However, as is often the case with ALC's, I was sold by the premise and the enthusiasm I saw some other readers showing for this book.
I'm so glad I trusted their gushes because this was truly a fun time. If you're a book listener like me, who has favorite narrators or a crush on a performer, you will feel a kinship with Hannah. I understood her so well and it was easy to put myself in her shoes.
I also really liked Cam, and how he fell into his "side gig" as an erotic voice for sale on the internet. It's and awkward job to explain but he provides a very important service, believe me! He was just such a likeable guy and I think his characters gives some humanness to the men who provide our ears with orgasms. They are more than a voice and deserve their privacy but they doesn't mean they aren't looking for love too.
So when he goes with his roommate for Christmas vacation and the little sister of his friend happens to be a devoted listener... well, he may test the waters to see if she's up for some play. Which is gonna get spicy for us all!
This was a really great story and in my opinion, a bit more than a novella. But do yourself a favor and get the audio book. It's written so you don't HAVE to, but you're really missing an important dimension to the story if you do.
Narrated in the Duet Style by Adam Gold & Evelyn Rose. They were a delight and they put their all into this performance.
5 stars 3 on the spice scale
CW: bit of spanking, some semi-pubic play
*Thank you to Must Love Audio and the author for an ALC of this title.*...more
SJ Tilly has a talent for writing very relatable heroines. So when the picture perfect, obsessed man falls for them, it makes you believe like you're SJ Tilly has a talent for writing very relatable heroines. So when the picture perfect, obsessed man falls for them, it makes you believe like you're a queen right along with her. Seeing to your every need and making your life better than you ever thought it could be.
That's what Nathan does for Rose in this romance. These childhood friends that were separated by circumstance and kept apart for so long. They meet again when Rosie does a catering job for Nathan's friend. He may not immediately recognize the girl he moved away from all those years ago, but the pull towards her comes back in a flash.
Then when he discovers who she is, in a very compromising situation I may add, he knows it's a done deal: He MUST have her. She's like a piece he didn't even know he was missing.
Rosie doesn't think Nathan will give her a second glance when they meet again, but she is dead wrong. She may be worried what he'll make of her past but there's nothing that can scare him away and she's about to see just how determined he is.
He'll even sic his lovable cat on her to win her over! He's not above playing dirty. :)
As always, my critiques lie in how long some of SJ Tilly's books are and the chapters that are sometimes 2 sentences long feel so jarring via audio.... because the narrators have to actually say the chapter title when it switches. Whereas if you are reading it, you maybe don't feel as pulled out by a chapter change. Just food for thought.
Dual narrated by Andi Arndt & Christian Fox. They brought their A-game, as always and it made for a very enjoyable read.
4 stars 3.5 on the spice scale
CW: abusive parent (past but remembered), suicidal ideation, car accident (see author's note for more)
Sexy content: anal, toys, semi-public sex
*Thank you to Must Love Audio and the author for an ALC of this title*...more
I am not normally a Rock Star Romance girlie, which is due usually to the content that comes with the life style. See Content Warnings. Yet, the tropeI am not normally a Rock Star Romance girlie, which is due usually to the content that comes with the life style. See Content Warnings. Yet, the tropes and other readers fervor for this series had me intrigued. I'm really glad I gave it a chance because this was a very moving story.
Callie and Torren were drawn to each other. They pulled each other in like gravity and even though they have some history to unravel and some challenges to overcome, they were just so compelling. It was hard to take a break from the story to spend time with my family.
Something that I think does lead musicians to lead harsher lives is all the feelings they have flowing through them. I think we really see that in this story. It was also deeply romantic at times. Torren especially, at the end of this book had me tearing up.
Narrated in Duet Style with Stephen Dexter & Stella Hunter. They did an amazing job and kept me sucked in all the way through.
4.5 Stars 3 on the spice scale
CW: drug and alcohol use, traumatic car accident with fatalities, accident recovery, depression, stalking, financial insecurity, stroke care for a parent,
*Thank you to Must Love Audio and the author for an ALC of this title.*...more