A triumphant conclusion as the heroes defeat not only their evil enemies but their hateful traitors as well.
Full of interesting magic, powerf4 Stars
A triumphant conclusion as the heroes defeat not only their evil enemies but their hateful traitors as well.
Full of interesting magic, powerful necromancy, and an idealistic romance between two unlikely allies, fans of MM historical fantasy should not skip this satisfying trilogy!
Part 2 of this trilogy starts off with Saris missing, all evidence pointing towards a betrayal, and the only one who believes he’s innocent i3.5 Stars
Part 2 of this trilogy starts off with Saris missing, all evidence pointing towards a betrayal, and the only one who believes he’s innocent is Roland, the man he technically betrayed!
This was full of reveals and more intricate machinations in the war engulfing sevearl realms against a common enemy. It was fast paced and adventuresome where Roland and Saris’s feelings grow stronger despite all odds against them.
Again, ending on another cliffhanger, me reading the conclusion will not be far off!
If you’re looking for an MM romance pairing a human and an alien, then this mostly sweet, mostly easy going story might just fit the bill.
As pe3 Stars
If you’re looking for an MM romance pairing a human and an alien, then this mostly sweet, mostly easy going story might just fit the bill.
As per the blurb, Geo may be insecure due to a recent bad relationship, but his expert builder skills allows him the perfect excuse to leave his baggage behind and start anew off-world, helping a decimated planet with its recolonization efforts. Makir is an omega Lorian who also wants a new start on life, escaping his hateful parents and past relationship trauma. When these two meet, strange things start to happen to Geo, and they both find each other absolutely irresistible despite their fears and reservations. Are they brave and willing enough to take a chance on happiness?
Admittedly, I have an intolerance to awful parents and a persistent inability to communicate fully which was present in this story. However, this had good world building, and it was still a cozy ABO romance capitalizing on alpha/omega dynamics with plenty of “mine” vibes, a mate bond, and explicit smexy. To top it off, this had likable protagonists surrounded by an equally likable growing found family - all of which I think many readers would greatly enjoy. Overall, I’m charmed enough and curious enough to check out the sequel when it drops!
Thank you to the author and Victory Editing NetGalley Co-op via NetGalley for a copy in exchange for an honest review...more
The only way I can describe this standalone story (though it would not surprise me if there were multiple connections to the Chicago universe t4 Stars
The only way I can describe this standalone story (though it would not surprise me if there were multiple connections to the Chicago universe that I’m not aware of) is to dub this “cozy Calmes”.
It’s got all the ingredients but it’s a bit tamer, a bit more mellow, and I just sat back and enjoyed myself.
Just like the blurb says, this focuses on Maks. He’s in the “family” business and not the good kind. He’s no stranger to being intimidating, threatening, and deadly but take careful note here, he’s always done it with a heart of gold.
When Maks is forced to start over in witness protection for turning against those that betrayed him, no one, and I mean no one - not the FBI, not the Marshals, not the cops, not the good citizens of small town Oregon, nor his new sweet elderly landlord or the local deputy chief of police who’s his neighbor - bats one itty bitty eyelash at his notorious dubious dark past as they all believe Maks walks on water.
Hey, my only excuse is to simply say ”it’s Calmes”, and for the most part, I think that pretty much explains it all....more
Simply put, this second installment basically threw the door wide open and took off running!
The first book definitely took its time setting up 4 Stars
Simply put, this second installment basically threw the door wide open and took off running!
The first book definitely took its time setting up the premise, the world building, and the foundation of who and what empaths are. In this alternate reality, empaths are inherent pacifists, putting others before themselves, and avoiding conflict at all costs. However, with such an ability to read and influence emotions, the potential danger of them using this power for nefarious means has resulted in global initiatives to protect the general populace from being affected.
Expanding upon the greater machinations behind the institutions who are against empaths, this again explored an X-Men type scenario. How or should a particular subset of the population be monitored and possibly controlled for the benefit and security of the masses, and when does scientific advancement go too far, crossing the line to infringe upon basic human rights in the name of safety?
Rest assured, this isn’t all existential pondering. Still caught in the middle is empath Reece who is this close to being corrupted, where he’d use his powers for bad selfish intent instead of good, able to “thrall” anyone to do his bidding. However, always present is Evan, an empath specialist known as the Dead Man, who’s completely immune to any emotional influence and thus, not vulnerable to empath powers. Where these two cannot and should not work, where their fundamental biological makeup won’t allow them to normally connect on any level, Therin deftly makes their burgeoning forced companionship succeed quite wonderfully.
Admittedly, I had my doubts as to how this series could, or would, progress as an MM romance, and all I can say is that this far exceeded my expectations. Not only is Reece and Evan the perfect complete opposites pair, but their banter was spot on, and their not flirty interactions were smile inducing. As they both grumpily force themselves to work together because neither has a choice (not that they wanted any other options), they investigate a series of empath disappearances, and what they find is not good at all.
Told in mostly alternating POV, this really lent great fascinating insight into both Reece and Evan. Reece continued to drive me just as crazy as he did in the first book due to his complete lack of self preservation, but his antics were mitigated by the lovely sexy Evan who makes quite the compelling mysterious character. It also doesn’t hurt that the supporting cast was equally intriguing as they all eventually converge for the big reveal.
Again, this was a wonderful follow up to Liar City. The story propelled me along at a clipped pace, ending on a cliffhanger between Reece and Evan who are both pushed into a corner that they don’t see any way out of. However, I now have faith in Therin to deliver an alternative to both their immutable paths that supposedly can’t be changed despite everything and everyone saying otherwise. Sadly, it will be a long wait to get the next installment, but I will be here waiting for the drop as soon as it comes!
Thank you to the author and Carina Adores via NetGalley for a copy in exchange for an honest review
I just recently read Honeythorn and said it was one of the best hurt comforts I‘ve read in a long while. Well, this blew it out of the ballpa4.5 Stars
I just recently read Honeythorn and said it was one of the best hurt comforts I‘ve read in a long while. Well, this blew it out of the ballpark.
Isak is an omega widower, terrorized for the past decade by his awful alpha, and now must move to a different country to be subjected again to a “peace marriage”. He really has no choice and steels himself for yet another loveless bond that’s sure to be full of emotional and physical abuse. The only small light in this situation is that his new alpha doesn’t want to be married either and hopefully, they can live their separate lives with the bare minimum interaction for his twice yearly heats.
Don’t fret dear reader. This doesn't devolve into a protracted turmoil of alpha Emil wanting to be with someone else or resisting Isak on principle. Instead, this was the most tender healing that twisted my gut with emotions and brought me to tears on several occasions.
You will sympathize and empathize with Isak’s fears, his efforts to just survive in protecting his fragile self and the ways he yearns and hopes and so wants to believe in Emil’s sincere efforts to erase every bad memory. Though Emil didn’t want to be forced into marriage, the second he bonds with the alluring Isak, he knows there’s no turning back and thus, Emil does everything right to make Isak trust and love him. He is the bestest of alphas - kind, firm but gentle, patient, never once overstepping, never once pushing Isak to be anything but himself, always making sure he’s comfortable and safe.
I could go on and on but I won’t. Again, one of the best ABO hurt comforts with KNOTTING, simply showcasing an exquisite evolution of love and new beginnings for both Isak and Emil.
At that moment, Isak couldn’t do anything but give himself over. Isak was left ruined, remade. Cracked, and healed, and ripped, and sewn back together.
Avery, stuck by circumstance, doesn't foresee himself ever leaving his small town existence. He's resigned himself to a lonely, sexless life of banaliAvery, stuck by circumstance, doesn't foresee himself ever leaving his small town existence. He's resigned himself to a lonely, sexless life of banality. That is, until cocksure, beautiful Chase walks through his front door. Though Chase is self proclaimed straight, these two hit it off immediately, forging an easy friendship. Fighting his attraction, Avery will just have to settle for just being BFF's, right? Right.
This was pretty low on angst, and was quite the easy read with some nice UST and smex thrown in. Simply, short and sweet....more
Unique in topic, I was intrigued about this story on hoarding. Often fascinated and a bit uncomfortable, I felt empathy and sympathy as I ra3.5 Hearts
Unique in topic, I was intrigued about this story on hoarding. Often fascinated and a bit uncomfortable, I felt empathy and sympathy as I rallied for the two MC’s to achieve success in their lives and each other.
Jasper definitely has some issues. He knows it and wants to change, but he’s just so scared to take that first step. His stash of books, magazines, and various paper paraphernalia, all with potentially useful knowledge, has taken years to acquire. Such a collection has filled his house to the brim, as only a small pathway from the door to the kitchen and his bedroom remains. Jasper knows he’s a prisoner of his own making, however, just the thought of throwing even one thing away sends him into a tailspin of anxiety. In a moment of frustrated desperation, he makes a call for help.
Help shows up in the form of Lewis and his sister, who make it their business to empower people to get rid of their hoards. Lewis knows Jasper from their teenage years and once the connection is made, it serves only to bolster their mutual attraction, as Jasper recalls their past association. What might’ve been awkward is thankfully not an issue since Lewis is a calm and steady force, never with any judgement. He slowly urges Jasper to figure out the reasoning behind his need to collect and gently coaxes him out of his hoard induced safety net. Lewis wants to help because that’s what he does, making his desire for Jasper all the more conflicting. When it’s reciprocated, he knows this is the worst time to start up a relationship.
What ensues is a back and forth between these two - yearning, resisting, giving in, and pushing away. For what seems like the first time ever, indecisive Jasper knows what he wants and that’s Lewis. Jasper sees how good they are together, how perfectly they match up, but Lewis is not without his own personal problems and tendencies, all mocking him in the form of a slew of bad past relationships. Lewis knows his faults and somewhat doubts his own judgement, afraid to get too attached to Jasper, fearing that once he achieves success, Lewis will no longer be needed. Despite his inner turmoil, they fall into a “friends with benefits” arrangement, each wanting more but unsure of how to go about it.
These two were very likeable guys. That always makes difficult topics or situations go down nice and easy.There was a definite poignant vulnerability seen in both these men that added emotional weight. It doesn’t hurt at all that they were also quite hot and smexy in between the book piles and packed boxes, not to mention just plain, simple bed sheets! Not surprisingly, both Jasper and Lewis finally get their shit together, and it was a sweet, though abrupt, happy ending. I’m going to assume that that was on purpose, urging readers to read the next story about Jasper’s friend Mas. So yes, I’m hooked and look forward to seeing a thriving Jasper and Lewis in the periphery of the next installment!
Thanks to the author for a copy in exchange for a honest review
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Merged review:
3.5 Hearts
Unique in topic, I was intrigued about this story on hoarding. Often fascinated and a bit uncomfortable, I felt empathy and sympathy as I rallied for the two MC’s to achieve success in their lives and each other.
Jasper definitely has some issues. He knows it and wants to change, but he’s just so scared to take that first step. His stash of books, magazines, and various paper paraphernalia, all with potentially useful knowledge, has taken years to acquire. Such a collection has filled his house to the brim, as only a small pathway from the door to the kitchen and his bedroom remains. Jasper knows he’s a prisoner of his own making, however, just the thought of throwing even one thing away sends him into a tailspin of anxiety. In a moment of frustrated desperation, he makes a call for help.
Help shows up in the form of Lewis and his sister, who make it their business to empower people to get rid of their hoards. Lewis knows Jasper from their teenage years and once the connection is made, it serves only to bolster their mutual attraction, as Jasper recalls their past association. What might’ve been awkward is thankfully not an issue since Lewis is a calm and steady force, never with any judgement. He slowly urges Jasper to figure out the reasoning behind his need to collect and gently coaxes him out of his hoard induced safety net. Lewis wants to help because that’s what he does, making his desire for Jasper all the more conflicting. When it’s reciprocated, he knows this is the worst time to start up a relationship.
What ensues is a back and forth between these two - yearning, resisting, giving in, and pushing away. For what seems like the first time ever, indecisive Jasper knows what he wants and that’s Lewis. Jasper sees how good they are together, how perfectly they match up, but Lewis is not without his own personal problems and tendencies, all mocking him in the form of a slew of bad past relationships. Lewis knows his faults and somewhat doubts his own judgement, afraid to get too attached to Jasper, fearing that once he achieves success, Lewis will no longer be needed. Despite his inner turmoil, they fall into a “friends with benefits” arrangement, each wanting more but unsure of how to go about it.
These two were very likeable guys. That always makes difficult topics or situations go down nice and easy.There was a definite poignant vulnerability seen in both these men that added emotional weight. It doesn’t hurt at all that they were also quite hot and smexy in between the book piles and packed boxes, not to mention just plain, simple bed sheets! Not surprisingly, both Jasper and Lewis finally get their shit together, and it was a sweet, though abrupt, happy ending. I’m going to assume that that was on purpose, urging readers to read the next story about Jasper’s friend Mas. So yes, I’m hooked and look forward to seeing a thriving Jasper and Lewis in the periphery of the next installment!
Thanks to the author for a copy in exchange for a honest review
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Very pleasantly surprising, this was a nice break from the oft serious side of this series. Never fear though, Goode does not shirk from the to4 Stars
Very pleasantly surprising, this was a nice break from the oft serious side of this series. Never fear though, Goode does not shirk from the tough topics, this time delving more into relationship dynamics and the questions that can inevitably arise with an established couple. How do two people progress to a more committed relationship? Should a couple join and mesh their lives for a deeper connection? Is there a shared future in 1, 5, 10 years?
Tyler and Matt have been together for awhile now, and though Tyler is obliviously content with the status quo, Matt longs for more. Tyler’s cluelessness hurts Matt deeply and in an effort to right some wrongs, Tyler books them a vacation of a lifetime and commandeers the help of their friends Sebastian and Robbie.
What stands out the most for me in this installment was the fun factor that is intermittently dispersed throughout the more sober/serious parts. I’ve never laughed so much with a Goode novel before, which says something about the typical, painful, no-holds-barred nature of his previous works (which is never a complaint). This had bite and snark, mostly in the form of the fabulous Robbie, that had me cheering emphatically for Matt and Tyler to get their shit together. Of course they do after going through many roadblocks, mistakes and fiascos, and one just has to sit back and enjoy their hilarious, but poignant ride, to happiness.
So it’s not all about how Tyler gets his ducks in a row. Matt too evolves and learns a few things, and inevitably they come out the better and stronger for it. As always, Goode brings the harsh truth to light. This time around, it was an entertainingly fabulous, good time....more
Filo has been the sole occupant of a communications station on the edge of space for 3 long years. H4 Hearts
Space, smex, and the holidays? Sign me up!
Filo has been the sole occupant of a communications station on the edge of space for 3 long years. He opted for the isolation in a bid to escape the chaotic crowded life on the colony and though he’s a little lonely, he wouldn’t trade it for anything. When he gets a distress signal from a stranger, he's surprisingly grateful for the company. Luz is uber friendly flirty, seemingly sending a bunch of mixed signals. However, Filo's not going to overstep his boundaries. He's simply going to enjoy the companionship despite the at times awkward camaraderie.
Blending a bit of sci-fi with romance is just my cup of tea. Add a beast of a gentle giant in Filo trying to be a good friend and a gentleman despite his lustful feelings is even better. Lucky for Filo, Luz takes a chance at using Christmas to make a move. This had some very nice UST, and when things finally spark between these two?! Cheers!
Thank you to the author/publisher for a copy in exchange for a honest review
For more reviews on this week’s Advent releases, please check out the blog!!
In all honesty, not much happens here except to introduce characters for Clarke’s other novels, specifically Lem for The Left Hand of Dog and L3 Stars
In all honesty, not much happens here except to introduce characters for Clarke’s other novels, specifically Lem for The Left Hand of Dog and Lem’s BFF Devon for Devon's Island.
This features cast diversity amongst cosplay, conventions, and gaming. Having just finished Left Hand of Dog, I don’t really feel this is necessary to read but I guess if you’re a purist, this is currently free on Amazon....more
A road trip. A homage. A chance to defy the rules and ultimately break them.
Justin has barely been living under the thumb of his well intention4 Stars
A road trip. A homage. A chance to defy the rules and ultimately break them.
Justin has barely been living under the thumb of his well intentioned mother. He’s been in the closet and in love with his best friend Landry for years, and he’s scared shitless to do anything about it. On said road trip to honor his dead father, stress and grief come to a head, and the truth comes out with unsurprisingly, a lot of consequences.
Despite some upsetting angst, the writing here is what gives this extra points. The way Erickson conveys how Justin and Landry fit perfectly - always did, always will - was the best part of this book. So yes, this wasn’t the easiest read - but the poignancy, the intimacy - all won me over.
Admittedly, Justin has a shit ton of growing up to do - finding, owning, and embracing himself so he could be with Landry who btw, was a wonderful character to experience. Overall this was touching and very romantic. Of course, it was sweet and sexy too. These two meet cute when they were young and immediately connect. There was never a question as to whether they were meant for each other - they just had to take a journey to realize and embrace that possibility. Really, all the rest is inconsequential, and that my friends, is the way love should be....more
Who doesn’t like an opposites attract romance set amongst the holiday?
Poor Sam never had a family nor any Christmas cheer growing up, but wh3.5 Stars
Who doesn’t like an opposites attract romance set amongst the holiday?
Poor Sam never had a family nor any Christmas cheer growing up, but when his new neighbor Jay, says hello with a curious fruitcake, it’s a fucking revelation.
Ensue some mild back and forth as Sam is determined to get more of the controversial treat. Beware lots of insecurity on Sam’s part but it’s hard to resist a gentle giant who needs and deserves so much love. Add a polished guy who has his own sad story and these two nicely get over their hangups!
Note to readers - this is a small tangent from Calmes’s Marshals series, featuring the work partner of Elliot Dorsey, younger brother of Jack 4 Stars!
Note to readers - this is a small tangent from Calmes’s Marshals series, featuring the work partner of Elliot Dorsey, younger brother of Jack Dorsey, who works with Miro and Ian. Confused? Don’t be. Just thought I’d throw that out there for background info because I was tickled pink to realize the connection, no matter how small and insignificant.
Anyways… what I appreciate about this is that I know we're gonna get a relationship where both players are 110% all in. It’s possessive and claiming and intense, not to mention full on smexy with a good dose of ridiculousness. Short and very sweet - I’m a happy reader....more
My second Li book and I will say, this author brings to the table intriguing world building and colorful characters!
Edward is the venerable3.5 Hearts!
My second Li book and I will say, this author brings to the table intriguing world building and colorful characters!
Edward is the venerable mayor of a small town known to offer peace and acceptance for those who typically don’t belong. However, an unseasonably terribly hot winter that’s only getting worse, can mean doom for the burgeoning community. Something definitely unnatural is afoot, and Edward must ask ex lover Shu for help, bringing to the fore past hurts and lingering regrets. What they ultimately discover is pretty horrific but the situation allows Edward to realize his mistakes and ask for forgiveness and acceptance.
Bridge an old western theme with lots of magic plus some legend and lore and you’ve got quite the entertaining holiday historical. This was unique and sexy with a sweet second chance at love!
Thank you to the author/publisher for a copy in exchange for a honest review
For more reviews on this week’s Advent releases, please check out the blog!!...more
By now I should be used to Calmes’s craziness, but this really did push the limits through really no fault of its own as Calmes has created a c3 Stars
By now I should be used to Calmes’s craziness, but this really did push the limits through really no fault of its own as Calmes has created a complex universe that encompasses the majority of her books who are connected to each other in both big and small ways.
So, this felt like a huge info dump, one that I really had no clue or ability to fully understand despite having read 27 of her contemporary books as the 1st third of this book was setting things up with multiple characters that may or not be significant, I really don’t know. What l can tell you for certain is that there’s a connection to Mine, Acrobat, Marshals, AMoT and the long standing question about a murder was finally answered so there was that. Of course, don’t forget to read the first book in this series, A Day Makes as well.
For die hard fans who haven’t read this, I’m confident in saying this probably has a bazillion Easter eggs, and my poor brain was absolutely exhausted in not knowing every possible connection, but that’s on me. However, be reassured that this is still classic Calmes with stilted convos, brand name dropping, second chance romance that’s always and will be forever claimingly intense and wholeheartedly all in. Calmes wouldn’t have it any other way and regardless, I obviously keep coming back for more of the same.
Roger and Jack and have b4 Historical Hearts - Team Review with Chelsea
Another win for this holiday series!
Prepare yourself for some heartache though…
Roger and Jack and have been boyhood friends for forever and at the cusp of adulthood, a shared kiss that could’ve possibly been the start of something never comes to full fruition as the world is soon thrown into war. Six years later and these two young men have seen and done much, suffered and grieved, and missed each other every day, surviving only through the hope of seeing one another again. Was that shared kiss all it was? A fleeting thing between friends or the start of something more?
This blends the best of friends who become lovers, set in a time where such was not accepted or condoned. Melancholy and full of longing, Roger and Jack are expected to carry on and move on, but neither can let that one memory go despite time, distance, and everyone else in their lives doing their damndest to keep them apart.
However, life’s too short and these two are about to lose the best thing, the only thing they want. They deserve happiness and they grab it for themselves regardless of the possible consequences.
A bittersweet but triumphant win for Roger and Jack, their love definitely bringing all the romantic contentment and feel good warmth to the heart!
Thank you to the author/publisher for a copy in exchange for an honest review
What happens when a covert agent realizes the man he loves lied to him, barring the fact that he lied about the very nature of his own job and 4 Stars
What happens when a covert agent realizes the man he loves lied to him, barring the fact that he lied about the very nature of his own job and identity? What happens when a double agent, in an effort to protect one of his own, falls for him instead?? Apparently, all sorts of complications and yummy goodness. I mean, who doesn't love spies and espionage, and shit blowing up??
You've got Fisher, who's a lot stubborn but understandably betrayed. Then you've got Zach, who's torn between duty and the man he can't let go. These lone wolves have found a sanctuary in the other they never thought possible. Too bad the foundation of their relationship is a lot shaky. However they have a job to do, and that's protecting the other and not getting dead.
Major points go towards the genre itself - tough men going tender is the fabulous icing on the proverbial cake. Overall this was great fun, despite a bit of frustration in the first half regarding Fisher. Once he pulls his head out of his ass, that's when things take off.
Bottom line - this had angsty feels, darn good smex, tense action, and sweet, sweet proclamations. Definitely hard to resist such a heady mix! High five!...more
What happens when near strangers make a gentlemen’s agreement to have some fun with no strings attached? Plenty of goodness, that is.
It all s3.5 Stars
What happens when near strangers make a gentlemen’s agreement to have some fun with no strings attached? Plenty of goodness, that is.
It all starts with a terrible break up. Cole has certainly been unlucky in love, and when he goes to his local watering hole to drown his sorrows, he catches the eye of bar owner Owen, who notices immediately that something is amiss. Being the personable guy Owen is, he seizes the opportunity to cheer Cole up, but also to provide his own self some much needed distraction from his very busy, stressful life. It’s a win-win situation with no pressure and possibly, just maybe, some really great sex. Eyes wide open right?? Right.
These guys are of course pleasantly surprised to find that the other is really great company and that they get along in the best of ways. It doesn’t hurt that the attraction between them is off the charts. Surely it’s way too soon and the most inopportune time to fall for someone when one is on the rebound. No doubt that’s a recipe for disaster and heartache.
So yes, Cole and Owen grow closer, and the inevitable feelings develop despite a lot of personal worries. Thankfully very low on the angst, this had it all - a bit of fun, funny, and dirty, all wrapped up with a holiday vibe. Christmas is the perfect excuse to jump in and take a chance on love as miracles do happen. These two end up with their well deserved happy ending - just the way we like it....more
* A Reader Obsessed *
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