Bloody Temptations is the first book in the new Lead Me To Temptation series by Ali Woods. While it’s set in the same world as the Legends of the WhisBloody Temptations is the first book in the new Lead Me To Temptation series by Ali Woods. While it’s set in the same world as the Legends of the Whisper Woods trilogy, and we actually meet Finn in that series, this book doesn’t spend much time on worldbuilding. That’s not a criticism, just something for both new and returning readers to keep in mind. And for those “coming from” Whisper Woods, it’s worth mentioning that the focus here is very much on the romance, there is no mystery to solve or big adventures to go on.
Ok, with that out of the way, let’s get back to Bloody Temptations. ...more
Did It Have To Be Gnomes?! is the first book in Michele Notaro’s Carry A Faerie series, and it’s a fun and charming paranormal romance with a little bDid It Have To Be Gnomes?! is the first book in Michele Notaro’s Carry A Faerie series, and it’s a fun and charming paranormal romance with a little bit of magical chaos. Set in a new universe, the story follows Miles who is a rare empath who can feel emotions (and even thoughts). That makes relationships tricky for Miles, so he’s spent most of his life pretty isolated and touch-starved. He now runs a magical pest control business that’s known for being humane, catching and releasing faeries rather than harming them.
The real trouble begins when Miles gets called to handle a massive gnome infestation at a huge mansion. Gnomes already freak him out, but this situation is worse than anything he’s dealt with before. Enter Winter, Miles’s high school crush who just so happens to work for a rival pest control company. Winter is a null (also rare), which means he cancels out other people’s magics, and that includes Miles’s empath abilities. He’s also kind-hearted and quietly harbouring a crush of his own. When Miles asks for help, Winter jumps at the chance, and the two team up to figure out what’s going on with the gnomes.
There’s a sweet slow burn between them that develops naturally as they spend more time together, which really suited them. You can feel they’ve both been into each other for a while, and their awkward, but also endearing, chemistry makes their growing relationship feel genuine. The forced proximity trope really works here for me, especially since Winter is the only person Miles can be around without being overwhelmed.
Outside the romance, there is a group of really great supporting characters. We have Lyric, Winter’s best friend, who brings a lot of personality and humour. And then there are the teenage twins Chaos and Ace who are both intriguing and completely lovable. Add to that a one-eyed cat, a giant dog, and a magical firebird familiar, and the story builds a found family vibe that I hope we see in future books.
The plot is paranormal, but it mixes in a light mystery with moments of danger. There’s more going on with the gnomes than meets the eye, and the hints about both Miles and Winter’s pasts are setting up some exciting possibilities that will hopefully be explored throughout the series. I have to say, there were times were the magic felt a little inconsistent. It didn’t take away too much from the fun of the story, but it was noticeable...at least for me.
I did have a bit of an issue at times, because the characters felt (behaved) younger than their actual ages, which does tend to happen in Michele’s books. Also, I usually find the nicknames in Michele’s books a bit too much, but here they were much more subtle and kinda cute, unlike in, for example, Nikolai, where they didn’t quite work for me. Hopefully it stays that way going forward. But overall, the book is sweet and charming, and I really loved the unique idea of magical beings treated like magical vermin.
All in all, Did It Have To Be Gnomes?! is delightful, and it’s an easy read with a lovable cast, unique premise, and a romance that feels natural.
I received a copy of this book from the author, and this is my unbiased review.
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CW: mentions of family abandonment, mentions of animal death (not on page, past), mentions of animal abuse (not on page)...more
Wild Card is the second book in DJ Jamison’s Foster Bro Code series, and it’s Axel’s story. Axel acts tough, he’s guarded, a bit of a troublemak4.25 ⭐
Wild Card is the second book in DJ Jamison’s Foster Bro Code series, and it’s Axel’s story. Axel acts tough, he’s guarded, a bit of a troublemaker, and pretty much convinced that everyone leaves eventually. (Honestly, who can blame him?) After being let down by his parents, foster families, and even his own brother, he’s learned to rely on no one but himself and is always braced for disappointment. He keeps his distance, even from his brothers, living at a junkyard with a pack of rescue animals he cares for far more tenderly than he’ll ever admit. Underneath all the rough edges, there’s a soft heart, even if Axel does his best to hide it. And that secret softness and moments of vulnerability made me love him from the start.
Then there’s Dalton. He’s a steady, dependable deputy who’s been crushing on Axel for a while. But, as expected, he hasn’t made a move because Axel’s tendency to end up on the wrong side of the law doesn’t exactly make things simple. Still, as we know, there’s only so long you can ignore that kind of pull. So, when Dalton finally decides he’s in, he really goes for it. He’s determined to prove to Axel that not everyone walks away, and that some people are actually worth trusting.
The chemistry between Axel and Dalton is pretty much undeniable, despite their…or maybe because of their clear opposites-attract dynamic. Their push-and-pull makes for some entertaining moments. I especially loved when Dalton takes charge when Axel is too scared to move forward. Watching their relationship grow into something deeper was genuinely heart warming.
All the brotherly moments are a lot of fun too. They’re full of teasing and bickering, but also support and just the right amount of chaos. It felt natural and genuine. It's also great to see the family slowly starting to heal and reconnect following Gray’s return. That said, I did have a problem with Axel's attitude toward Gray. On one hand, he seems to understand why Gray left (was forced to leave) and appears to forgive him. But then, in the next moment, he is all “Taz is an extension of my feelings,” while Taz continues to growl at Gray. That implies Axel still isn’t okay with Gray, which felt inconsistent...and a bit unfair toward Gray. I get that Axel’s behaviour might be intentionally inconsistent, reflecting his inner conflict, but maybe my problem is with the way it was executed which felt repetitive and slightly heavy-handed.
Nevertheless, Wild Card is sweet, emotional, and quite charming. Axel and Dalton have a lot to work through, but together they really do bring out the best in each other. Axel finally gets someone who actually sticks around, and Dalton finds someone who helps him loosen up and live a little. That said, although I loved Axel and Dalton and was enjoying their story, I did wish there was a bit more “meat on the bones,” so to speak.
All in all, it’s a great addition to the series, and I’m looking forward to seeing what’s next for the rest of the Foster brothers.
I received a copy of this book from Neon Rainbow Reviews, and this is my unbiased review....more
Second book in the Monsters & Mates series, Kael is definitely not one you want to read without starting at the beginning. The world of Terrafea4.25 ⭐
Second book in the Monsters & Mates series, Kael is definitely not one you want to read without starting at the beginning. The world of Terrafeara that the author created is incredibly creative. Full of strange landscapes and bits of other planets mashed together… so pretty complex. Jumping in without reading Solan (book one) will probably leave you confused. There’s also an overarching plot, so… read in order!
The story is told from Sonny’s POV, and just like in Solan, we only get Kael’s POV at the end of the book. Back to Sonny, he is a sarcastic, no-filter Australian human who’s been stuck in Terrafeara for two years now. He’s part of a rebel group, and he brings a ton of personality to the story. His “thinking thoughts” are fun, sharp, and sometimes unexpectedly heartfelt. Opposite him is Kael, a serious and loyal Glowranth warrior who serves as the prince’s personal guard. While Sonny’s first impression of Kael is that he’s cold and distant, as the story goes on, both Sonny and the reader get to see his soft and caring side. He’s stoic with others but so loving toward Sonny once they get their act together.
I loved the way the author played with the fated mates trope. Kael and Sonny’s relationship isn’t insta-love, and it’s not quite enemies to lovers either. It’s more of a slow build, full of tension and misunderstandings (which actually work here, not just because of different cultures, but also different species). But there’s also genuine growth. Things don’t start off well between them, but they’re forced to work together, and we see their dynamic begin to shift. The obstacles they face are real, so their connection later in the story feels genuine and earned.
There’s also a solid overarching plot to the series, and the world continues to surprise both readers and characters alike. There’s also a great mix of action and just the right amount of humour. And, as always, there are side characters that add a lot to the story.
I’m already looking forward to Varek’s book and all the ones after that!
I received a copy of this book from Gay Romance Reviews, and this is my unbiased review....more
Resolution wraps up Patricia Logan’s Trackers trilogy with plenty of action and familiar faces.
This book is most definitely not a standalone, so you Resolution wraps up Patricia Logan’s Trackers trilogy with plenty of action and familiar faces.
This book is most definitely not a standalone, so you will want to read the first two books to really get the most out of it. Especially since the story picks up right where Renegade left off, that is with Raven and Miguel still chasing down the missing jewels. But when a cartel steps into the picture things quickly escalate, and the danger intensifies right away.
Miguel and Raven are as strong as ever, as a couple and as business partners. I love how they are capable in their own right, but are also caring, and completely committed to each other. But in this book they're also facing some major changes. This is especially true when Miguel gets an unexpected offer that catches Raven off guard. And yeah, while that is not a great time for Raven, we get to see a more vulnerable side of him as he deals with insecurity and doubt. In my book that only makes him feel more relatable. It’s also great to see their dynamic shift and grow, and those moments of doubt make their connection feel even more real.
The thing I love most about Logan’s books is the way everyone shows up for each other. There is banter, there are disagreements, but there is also loyalty. And that gives such a strong sense of found family, not only in this series, but in all Logan’s books.
I received a copy of this book from the author, and this is my unbiased review....more
Well, this book is a first in the In love series, and it’s a quick, fun read that’s sweet and low angst.
The romance is between Mike, a siren, and CorWell, this book is a first in the In love series, and it’s a quick, fun read that’s sweet and low angst.
The romance is between Mike, a siren, and Corvin, (his) human librarian. They have great chemistry from the start…from their pineapple meet-cute to their nerdy but witty banter. They really are perfect for each other, and their relationship feels sincere and fun. That said, I wasn’t a fan of how most of their relationship happens off page due to time jumps. We don’t really get to see it develop, so the emotional investment wasn’t as strong as it would otherwise be for me.
There’s also a great cast of supernatural side characters who are fun and interesting, but the world-building doesn’t quite follow. We’re introduced to creatures like the Yule cat and loup-garous, but we don’t get much information of what they are or how things work in this universe. All that made me feel like the story was underdeveloped, which is a shame because it has a lot of potential.
For readers like me who enjoy a solid plot, this book doesn’t really have one as such. Even so, it still manages to be a light and charming read. There is plenty of cute moments, witty dialogue, and all in all, it’s a feel-good experience. It’s perfect if you’re just looking for something sweet and playful, and there's nothing wrong with that.
I received a copy of this book from Gay Romance Reviews, and this is my unbiased review. ...more
We’ve come to the end of the ORCA series, and Vinni has once again delivered a thrilling story, but this time with Julius and Ethan smack in the middlWe’ve come to the end of the ORCA series, and Vinni has once again delivered a thrilling story, but this time with Julius and Ethan smack in the middle.
Julius and Ethan are fated mates, and their chemistry is immediate and undeniable...though Ethan doesn’t recognise it for what it is at first. Sparks fly, so to say, from their very first meeting, but life isn’t exactly simple. Ethan is trying to juggle his responsibilities as a CEO and a devoted single father to his adorable panda shifter twins, all while grieving the loss of his sister (and brother-in-law). He barely has time to breathe, so falling in love is definitely not on his to-do list. Meanwhile, Julius is secretly investigating the financial records of Ethan’s company, Grove Core, under false pretences...and he’s feeling guilty for keeping secrets while also hoping real hard that Ethan isn’t involved in anything shady.
What I loved most was the care and thoughtfulness Julius showed Ethan, even before they became lovers. The quiet care and small gestures, like bringing Ethan food when he forgets to eat, really won me over. And when the truth about Julius’s presence at Grove Core comes out, Ethan’s reaction feels realistic. He’s hurt, but he wasn’t unforgiving. They work through it, and that honesty actually becomes the foundation of their relationship.
But this book isn’t just romance. There is also action, and the mystery that has simmered throughout the series finally gets to be solved. We get answers, especially around the painting The Evolution of Man, and all the pieces finally fall into place, revealing the true villain behind all the troubles. Unfortunately, the climax wasn't as satisfying as I had hoped it would be. To be honest, the reveal of the villain felt a bit underwhelming. And that’s mostly because the villain hadn’t played a significant role in the previous books. Even though I had a hunch (not until this book), the overarching story didn’t build up enough evidence or tension around that character to really make the twist feel earned.
On the other side, the family moments are just as important as the romance. It was a joy to see the entire Hunter clan, all the ORCA brothers, cousins, and their mates, come together in loyalty and to support each other. And although we’re saying goodbye to the series, it’s wonderful to leave the Hunters in their well-deserved HEA.
Cal and Jack’s book was the one I anticipated most in the series, but this book was definitely better executed, especially in how it stayed true to the characters and kept the plot from overshadowing the relationship. And while Cal and Jack are still my favourite couple, Julius and Ethan are now right up there with them, sharing the top spot.
I received a copy of this book from the author, and this is my unbiased review....more
Set in brutal 1700s France, this book is a messy, but emotional, and surprisingly touching journey through love, bloodshed (so muWhat a ride this was!
Set in brutal 1700s France, this book is a messy, but emotional, and surprisingly touching journey through love, bloodshed (so much bloodshed), and morally messy decisions. And since it’s the French revolution, there’s also plenty of head-chopping.
On one side, we have Léon, a brooding executioner who hates his job but sticks with it to protect his little brother (Émile). On the other, there’s Henri, a charming, if reckless idealist with too many secrets. Of course, they fall in love, to the point of obsession. But their romance is anything but easy. They clash, they lie, they betray, but somehow, through this slow burn romance full of tension and surprises, they still manage to break through each other’s walls. And while it is a slow burn, not to worry, it pays off once they finally get together. All in all, Léon and Henri are an absolute messy disasters in their own ways. But at the same time, that’s exactly what makes watching them figure each other out that much more fun….and frustrating at times.
The story is pretty heavy on action and plot, and I would say with enough political tension, magical twists, and head-chopping drama to keep you hooked all the way through. Though, personally, I did find a book a bit too long.
Still, I do love how Lockwood constantly puts love and morality at odds, and it’s fascinating to watch these two idiots make questionable choices for what they think is right. The shifting third-person POVs can get a little confusing at times, and it might take a bit to get used to, but that shouldn’t take away too much from the overall experience.
Also, while Souveraine did annoy me for a good part of the book, I have to admit the women in this story (even Souveraine) deserve some serious love. They’re sharp, capable, and constantly underestimated and overlooked by the men around them. And the book doesn’t ignore that, in fact, the women prove to often be more powerful than anyone gives them credit for. As is usually the case in real life too. That said, the book overall has a strong theme of not underestimating people, especially when it comes to love, family, and of course survival. Everyone in this book is flawed, chaotic and messy, but they still manage to create a beautiful found family.
I received a copy of this book from the author, and this is my unbiased review.
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CW: swearing, alcohol consumption, explicit sexual content, executions, gore, fighting, violence, beheading, non-graphic death of animals, kidnapping, murder, discussion of abuse of a minor, blackmail, vomit, theft, consensual non-consent, supernatural themes, sexism, homophobia, slurs, gun violence, sickness, the French Revolution....more
We’re already onto the second book in Jocelynn Drake’s Executive Suite Secrets series, and it does a great job of building on the world we were 4.75 ⭐
We’re already onto the second book in Jocelynn Drake’s Executive Suite Secrets series, and it does a great job of building on the world we were introduced to in the first book. We get to follow Declan and Parker in their opposites-attract, grumpy-sunshine story, and how it unravels to their HEA.
Declan is the strong, silent type. He is maaaaybe a little grumpy, reserved, and not exactly a fan of people (can't say I blame him). While Parker is his total opposite. He is fun, flirty, and full of energy. But when things start to fall apart for Parker, Declan of all people steps in to help. And just like that what starts as a casual hooking up slowly turns into something much deeper.
I was really looking forward to Declan’s book, and I’m happy to report that it had lived up to my expectations! I really enjoyed how Parker and Declan’s relationship is portrayed as emotional and full of chemistry, but also messy. And it’s that messiness that sells it for me because real life is messy, and real relationships are messy. And it’s the messy parts that make it feel real for me.
But not to worry, there are plenty of funny moments, but also a few frustrating ones thanks to miscommunication...and certain outside meddling. Speaking of meddling, Parker’s mom really pissed me off. Yes, she has good intentions. Yes, she’s partly right. But the way she handled “the talk” and assumed Parker was healed "enough" after two devastating blows and only in a month...ugh! For someone who supposedly “knows her son”, that is just inexcusable. No matter how independent, anyone in that situation is allowed to take a breather and hide for a while if they are in a safe environment to do so. So while the saying “mother knows best” is definitely not true, “the road to hell is paved with good intentions” definitely is. Fortunately for them (and us), Declan and Parker don’t take too long to realise they’re better off together. And they’re both taking action, just in different ways. Love me some proactive idiots! ...more
The Vampire’s Werewolf Bodyguard is one of those books that’s just really easy to fall into. I started it meaning to read a chapter or two, and 4.25 ⭐
The Vampire’s Werewolf Bodyguard is one of those books that’s just really easy to fall into. I started it meaning to read a chapter or two, and suddenly it was few hours later and I’ve finished the whole thing.
This is a paranormal romance with an enemies-to-lovers setup, some light mystery, and two very emotionally messy MCs. To be honest, just my kind of MCs, I can never help but root for them. As for the plot, Simon, a 400-year-old vampire with trust issues the size of a small country, ends up needing a bodyguard after a near-fatal attack. Here comes Cody, a werewolf with no pack, no mate, struggling to control his shifts. And since vampires and werewolves hate each other, it’s basically a disaster waiting to happen or the perfect setup for slow-burn romantic tension. We already know which one this is. ...more
Equalizer is the second book in the Sharps & Springfield series, continuing the story of Calvin and Owen, our supernatural secret agents and establishEqualizer is the second book in the Sharps & Springfield series, continuing the story of Calvin and Owen, our supernatural secret agents and established couple. Their latest case leads them to Chicago, where they have to navigate the dangerous world of local mafia and witch covens. Although the book can be enjoyed as a standalone, I strongly recommend reading the series in order.
The story is set in the late 1890s, and it blends historic elements with a bit of steampunk, a lot of magic, but also science, mafia, and mystery. Calvin and Owen came to Chicago to investigate a string of missing bodies, but what starts as a simple case quickly turns into something much darker.
I loved how the author blends early ideas of body part transplants with magic and electricity (Tesla’s coils). It was interesting to read since in the 19th century transplants were so out of the realm of possibility, whereas how now it’s a very common place thing. So the mix of historical and supernatural elements really made it a fascinating (and slightly eerie) read.
As always with Morgan Brice’s books, I found the writing quite immersive. The story pulls you right into the action and it doesn’t let go till the end. Also, the characters (Calvin, Owen, and Winston) feel real and relatable. I also loved that we got to see their relationships develop further, and that we got a bit of backstory for Owen. I’m really hoping and looking forward to learn more about all of them in future books.
For me, Equalizer is a fantastic continuation of the series. It was exciting, well-paced, and full of twists. Looking forward to book 3.
I received a copy of this book from the author, and this is my unbiased review....more
The final book in SOS Hotel trilogy gives us exactly what we’ve come to love and expect. It’s a fast-paced, slightly (hahaha more than slightly)4.25 ⭐
The final book in SOS Hotel trilogy gives us exactly what we’ve come to love and expect. It’s a fast-paced, slightly (hahaha more than slightly) chaotic, and totally entertaining adventure with Adam, Victor, and Zee. Out favourite chaotic trio is still pretending they’re on vacation, and they get roped into helping a down-on-his-luck troll return to Florida. Sounds simple enough, doesn’t it? But, as always with our trio, things quickly spiral out of control when troll mafia shows up. And let’s not forget, they’re still trying to shake off Adam’s relentless brother and clear their names, since they’re now all over the news as fugitives.
As with previous books, the story moves quickly, and while the plot is pretty straightforward, there are still some great twists and surprise betrayals that keep things interesting. I would say that in this one, the romance takes a more central role. With a final showdown looming over them, Adam starts to worry he might not make it out alive, which leads to some emotional moments with Zee and Victor. It was really nice to see the three of them more open with each other, and there is more tenderness between the three of them, so there’s a real sense of love, but also a feeling of urgency that adds emotional weight to the story.
But don’t worry, the book is still full of the usual ridiculousness, only this time in Florida. We’ve got troll mafia, frog people, and a bunch of familiar faces popping back in to cause trouble or lend a hand. And that final show of togetherness and love from the whole SOS Hotel crew was really the cherry on top.
It’s a little sad to say goodbye to our chaotic trio, but it also feels like the right time. ❤️
I received a copy of this book from Gay Romance Reviews, and this is my unbiased review....more
Outcast is the first book in DJ Jamison’s Foster Bro Code series. It is set in the small town of Riverton, and it introduces us to Gray and Emor4.25 ⭐
Outcast is the first book in DJ Jamison’s Foster Bro Code series. It is set in the small town of Riverton, and it introduces us to Gray and Emory, two men whose lives have been shaped by loss and guilt. Also, if Gray seams familiar, you are right, we first met him in Swallow Cove series (in Resting Beach Face), where Gray gets the message that brings him back to Riverton.
Well, Gray returns after being away for years, having left suddenly at 17. By reuniting with his foster brothers, he’s pulled back into the close-knit, but also sometimes complicated world of found family and second chances. Then there’s Emory, who is the quintessential golden boy (also Vice President of the local bank), and living a life shaped more by expectations of others than his own choices. And when a reckless decision puts him in a vulnerable spot, it’s Gray who steps in, and that sets off a chain of events that pulls the two of them closer together.
What starts as a “just friends with benefits” setup (we all know better) quickly turns into something much more meaningful. The chemistry between Gray and Emory is undeniable, but what I found really made the story is how emotionally stable and balanced it was. What makes this romance convincing is their personal struggles, their attempts to heal, and the way they support each other. I would say that the angst is present, but it comes from their pasts and the pressures around them.
I love how the author brings Riverton to life with her signature charm, but makes it a little less quirky than her previous towns, although it is also full of interesting side characters.
There is a very nice balance between emotional intensity and small-town sweetness in this book. And I loved that the rebuilding of family bonds is just as central to the book as the romance is. And the connection between the foster brothers really gave the story additional layer of healing and growth for everyone.
I would say this is a promising start to the Foster Bro Code series, and I am eager to see what’s in store for the rest of the brothers.
I received a copy of this book from Neon Rainbow Reviews, and this is my unbiased review....more
A second book in Brigham Vaughn’s Scoring Chances series, Body Check works perfectly well as a standalone. But personally, I would strongly reco4.25 ⭐
A second book in Brigham Vaughn’s Scoring Chances series, Body Check works perfectly well as a standalone. But personally, I would strongly recommend not skipping Connor and Jesse’s story! ❤️
In Body Check we see Gavin Racine, a 41-year-old general manager of the Boston Harriers hockey team, and Dakota Crane, a 29-year-old yoga and pilates instructor newly hired by the organization, find their HEA. Both men have been burned by past relationships, and they soooo don’t click at first. But that just made their slow journey to their HEA into something real, deeper and sweeter.
Gavin is a complex character, and he comes across as a workaholic with a tough shell. He is overworked, stubborn…and emotionally guarded due to a messy divorce. Add a complicated dynamic with his twin brother Thad, and you get why he comes across as tough and cold. But we also see a softer and caring side of him. Watching him be soft and vulnerable is one of things that made me love him and the book more than I first thought I would. Dakota, meanwhile, is a bit more…let’s say grounded, but he also has his own emotional baggage, and is dealing with financial struggles not completely of his own making. Going on a journey with these two, and seeing them both grow as a couple and as individuals, was another thing I really loved in this story. It’s emotional slow-burn, starting as casual but quickly becomes meaningful.
One thing I found refreshing is how Brigham handled the intimacy between them. It’s undeniable there’s chemistry between them, but what really makes them work is how much they talk. They talk about sex, trust, fears…all of it. A great moment early on, that I really loved, is where they both admit they’re tops, and instead of it turning into a problem, they figure things out in a way that feels respectful. Brigham treats physical connection with nuance, and that only adds to the emotional depth of their relationship for me. Besides, communication is sexy!!
One more thing that makes this story a bit slower in pace, and more plot driven, is that it spends some time building the team environment. It also gives us a little bit of the day-to-day of running a pro hockey organization, which is a bit different than what we usually see in hockey romances. We are getting a story “from behind the scenes” of the team, and I personally liked that change.
The book also deals with some serious themes like real-life financial issues, health scares, family estrangement, and trans rights. all come up at various points. I would say these topics are handled thoughtfully, and, as always, Brigham clearly put in the work, including using a sensitivity reader for trans representation. Like in Brigham’s other books, it doesn’t feel preachy, but it does add depth to it all.
I received a copy of this book from Neon Rainbow Reviews, and this is my unbiased review....more
The Bargain is the first book in Jocelynn Drake’s Executive Suite Secrets series, and it’s a fun office romance. The story follows Sebastian CourtlandThe Bargain is the first book in Jocelynn Drake’s Executive Suite Secrets series, and it’s a fun office romance. The story follows Sebastian Courtland, a billionaire with major Golden Retriever energy. He’s charming, generous, eager to help, and completely head over heels smitten with his PA, Byron Graham. All he wants is to spoil Byron rotten with love (and luxury), but Byron isn’t exactly making it easy.
Sebastian is truly a lovable character, but he can be a little bit reckless when it comes to the real consequences of dating someone who works for him. He means well, but he’s used to fixing things with money, which we all know doesn’t always work. That is especially true when it comes to Byron’s struggles. Meanwhile, Byron is dealing with a lot, both financially and emotionally, and that weight really comes through. (Also, I will just say, American healthcare system is abhorrent). But he still manages to be sharp, fun, and a little bit snarky. The chemistry between the two is great, and they make a truly cute couple. You can feel genuine warmth in the way Sebastian adores Byron...even if he is a little clueless about how to handle their dynamic without overstepping.
The plot isn’t exactly unpredictable (you’ll probably see the third-act drama coming), but that doesn’t stop it from being an enjoyable and really satisfying read. I take comfort in romances like this that deliver on all the warm and fuzzy feelings (even when it leans into the drama or gets a little cheesy).
The Bargain is a sweet, maybe slightly over-the-top romance with a bit of drama and a bit of humour, and two very lovable MCs.
I received a copy of this book from Gay Romance Reviews, and this is my unbiased review....more