The Beautiful Series Book 3: The Righteous by Renee Ahdieh

The Beautiful Book 3

Following the explosive events of The Damned, Odette faces a vampire's final death. The Court of the Lions have done everything they can to save her but have failed. A healer from the Sylvan Vale could help her, but only Arjun Desai, as a half fey, can cross the boundary between realms. The Sylvan Vale is a world Arjun despises, and in return, it despises him. But knowing it could save Odette, he returns to the Vale with all haste, leaving the mirrored tare between the two worlds open and unwittingly setting the stage for both love and war.

It's mere days until Pippa Montrose is to wed Phoebus Devereux and become a member of his well-heeled family, offering salvation to her own. But Celine is missing. Pippa has no idea where her best friend has gone, but she's certain it's in the company of vampire Sébastien Saint Germain and that Arjun can lead her to them. Pippa enjoins the help of Eloise, the daughter of a powerful sorceress, to discover the gateway Arjun uses to travel between worlds. Pippa, tired of hesitating in life, marches right through in search of her friend. But what she discovers on the other side is a dangerous, duplicitous world full of mischief and magic she doesn't understand, and most unexpectedly, she finds love.

In this latest installment of The New York Times bestselling series that began with The Beautiful, Pippa journeys to the treacherous and beguiling world of the fey in search of answers only to fall in love.

https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/57603668-the-righteous

********

My Review: 5/5 Stars

Once again I failed to reread the series before starting the next book, but bits and pieces did start to come back as I was reading this latest installment in the series so that was good! The story does start out a bit slow but once you hit a certain part the story is fast and the ending has plenty of twists and turns and a super surprising last page to say the least! The world just got bigger and now I'm super excited to see what comes next. So this story for the most part follows Pippa and Arjun. There are a few other points of views here and their but mainly it is their story. It starts with Arjun being told he needs to find a healer to heal his dear friend. For him it means going back to the place of his mother and where he is not welcomed. Plus he owes a debt to the enemy of his mother's court. Pippa is worried for Celine. And once Pippa claims you as her own, she will fight for you. So in a foolish move she follows Arjun and ends up in Sylvan Vale days before she is set to marry another. Things only get complicated from there for both Pippa and Arjun. We learn a great deal of Pippa and Arjun's pasts. Like Pippa marrying in order to provide for her two younger siblings she had to leave behind. Arjun's life has being known as a half-breed among these fey. I really enjoyed the story. Like I said, it was a bit slow at first but then it turns into a story you can't put down. And I love this author so much so I was glad to be pulled back into her world. And with that ending. Well I need a lot more information! Can't wait for the next one!

Stonefire Dragons Book 14: Trusting the Dragon by Jessie Donovan

Stonefire Dragons Book 14

Finally divorced and free of her bastard ex-husband, Sarah MacKintosh Carter looks forward to living with the Scottish dragon clan and attempting a normal life. However, a letter arrives and says she has thirty days to mate a dragon-shifter, or she has to return to a human city. If she leaves, she knows her former in-laws will be determined to take custody of her sons. So the countdown begins on finding a dragonman to mate her. There’s just one rule: no falling in love so she can protect her heart.

Hudson Wells hasn’t stopped thinking about the female he met by chance two years ago—she’s the only one he’s wanted in his life and his bed since the loss of his late mate. When the chance comes to claim Sarah as his own, Hudson puts his name forth to be her mate. Now he just needs to convince her to pick him. Despite the fact she’s divorced, Hudson soon discovers that Sarah was neglected, so he makes it his job to prove how desirable she really is. 

As Hudson does his best to persuade Sarah of how they’re combustible together in bed and a good team as parents out of it, her past comes back to haunt her. Not only does it threaten one of her sons, but it could also end up destroying the future she now yearns for with Hudson. Will she find a way to seize a happy ending for once? Or will Sarah end up losing everything she cares about?

https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/57584342-trusting-the-dragon

********

My Review: 5/5 Stars

I love going back to Stonefire! How can anyone not? And this story packed so much in it! Our dragonman is Hudson. Hudson lost his mate a few years back and has been on his own taking care of his son, Elliot. And for those who have been with the series this long, you'll remember his mate, Charlie. She was a Protector who died early on in the series. Now Hudson gets a second chance at having a mate. Sarah we have met recently. She is the sister of Lachlan who married a dragonwoman at Lochguard. Sarah has not had an easy life. She has finally escaped an abusive marriage and is hoping to have a safe place to live with her two young sons. But after a year at Lochguard, her ex in-laws are threatening to take her sons from her. Her only hope is to marry a dragonman and become a permanent resident at Lochguard or Stonefire. In an attempt to help her, the clan leaders suggest some dragonshifters who may be a good match for her. Even it is as simple as a marriage of convenience. What she doesn't expect is to be paired to Hudson. A man she has met two years before by chance. And Hudson certainly remembers her. She was the first female to draw his attention after losing his mate. Though back then their encounter was brief and Sarah was married. But he hasn't forgotten her. And perhaps this is their chance to discover if there is truly something between them. Loved this story! We had two great characters who have had it pretty rough but together learn to believe in fresh starts and second chances. Not to mention the action when it comes to those who are stilling hunting dragons. This is a great addition to the series and with more characters introduced, I'm excited to who's story we are getting next! 

I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review. 

 

Shadow City Silver Wolf Book 2: Rising Darkness by Jen L. Grey

Shadow City Silver Wolf Book 2

Fight or flight only works when you know who you're up against.

There's no running from an enemy who is constantly several steps ahead. The best you can do is stand and face them.

Finding my mate should have been a time to rejoice, not the catalyst for disaster. The closer we become, the more danger we find ourselves in.

Shocking revelations and buried secrets surface, only reinforcing the truth that Griffin and I are in big trouble.

One thing is clear, we can’t win if we don’t even know who we’re up against. I’m not quite sure if we’ll be able to make it out alive.

https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/59606830-rising-darkness

********

My Review: 4/5 Stars 

The fight only gets more intense for Sterlyn, her mate, Griffin, and their friends. Picking up where the last book left off, Sterlyn is able to escape her kidnapper but isn't able to gain any answers to exactly who is after her. The more she sees the more questions she has. And some answers may lie in her past. She'll go back home to where her parents and packed were slaughtered. But what she finds there is more than she could have imagined. And to get ahead of those who are after her they'll have to come up with a pretty risky plan. One thing you can count on in Jen's book is that our heroines are kick ass women who aren't afraid to stand up for themselves while teaching their mates they are strong and equal to any alpha. Plus the plot twists and cliffhangers that constantly leave with you more questions than answers. One more book left in this series and I'm looking forward to seeing how this story wraps up!

The Sizzle Paradox by Lily Menon

Lyric Bishop and Kian Montgomery, both graduate students, are best friends and roommates. When Lyric needs help cracking the Sizzle Paradox for her doctoral thesis on sexual chemistry--it seems the more attractive she finds a guy, the less "sizzle" there is when they actually have sex; but why? Kian, who never has trouble in the bedroom, offers to tutor her on dating tactics. Lyric, being a self-proclaimed awkward potato, accepts the help she desperately needs.

But once the two progress with their "tutoring sessions," they find that the solution to the Sizzle Paradox might actually be having sex with each other. Which is a problem, because they're best friends and absolutely, irrefutably nothing else... Right?

https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/58724897-the-sizzle-paradox

********

My Review: 5/5 Stars

Lyric and Kian have been best friends for a long time. In all their years together they never crossed the line between friends and more. Now as graduate students they are focusing on finishing up their theses and getting ready for the real world. Kian may graduate this year but Lyric has another year to go, which is good for her because she is currently stuck on her project. Lyric's thesis is about cracking "The Sizzle Paradox. A way to find the perfect balance in a partner that has most positive emotional and physical readings. But when it comes to finding her own "sizzle" she just can't seem to get it right. Everyone always asks Lyric and Kian why they aren't together. But neither can stand the idea of ruining their friendship. But when Kian decides to help Lyric on her dating tactics, things take an unexpected turn. One thing leads to another and the end result: a kiss neither can stop thinking about. A definite friends to lover trope, you can't help but love these two oblivious characters. Despite their resistance to the idea of them being more than friends, it is clear from the very beginning they are perfect for one another. Watching them get there is a whole new level. Both these characters are fun and hilarious, geniuses yet not when it comes to knowing what the other is feeling. A fun story that I devoured in one sitting. Great story!

I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review. 

Savage Rivals by Becca Steele

Asher Henderson.

Captain of the Highnam Academy football team, and the bane of my existence.

As Alstone High’s team captain, I’ve been pitted against him from the beginning, but our conflict isn’t only reserved for the pitch.

Everyone knows we’re enemies. From our first encounter, our rivalry has been escalating, spiralling out of control.

Until one night when everything between us changed.

He pushed me too far, and we crossed a line that should never have been crossed.

Now, I can’t get him out of my head.

Can we ever be more than rivals, or are there too many obstacles in our way?

One thing I know for sure.

Things between us will never be the same again.

Savage Rivals is a standalone M/M new adult high school romance with enemies to lovers and gay awakening themes. This book contains mature situations and content.

https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/58960303-savage-rivals

********

My Review: 5/5 Stars 

Asher and Levi have been rivals since the beginning. A misunderstanding on the field between their two high school teams led to a rivalry like no other. Both captains of the high school football (soccer) teams they lead the charge against one another in a series of pranks off the field and a little too rough of a game on the field. But what happens when they take this fight a little too far? Or better yet, realize that perhaps all this pent up hate against one another isn't really hate at all. A heat of the moment and a kiss that changes everything. What happens when two enemies suddenly become the opposite? I guess there really is a thin line between love and hate. Now they can't seem to stay away form one another but how do they deal with their respective teams? The rivalry still exists but can they finally call a truce that everyone will listen to? Loved this story! It is a true enemies to lovers trope with a side of finding a new side to your sexuality you may not have been exactly aware of before. The tension and banter between Levi and Asher are great and when the tables turn on them and they realize that they have feelings for one, even better. I enjoyed their story and so many of these characters! 

King of Battle and Blood by Scarlett St. Clair

Isolde x Adrian Book 1

Their Union Is His Revenge.

Isolde de Lara considers her wedding day her death day. To end a years-long war, she is to marry vampire king, Adrian Aleksandr Vasiliev, and kill him. 

But her assassination attempt is thwarted and Adrian threatens that if Isolde tries kill him again, he will raise her as the undead. Faced with the possibility of becoming the thing she hates most, Isolde seeks other ways to defy him and survive the brutal vampire court. 

Except it isn’t the court she fears most—it’s Adrain. Despite their undeniable chemistry, she wonders why the king——fierce, savage, merciless—chose her as consort. 

The answer will shatter her world. 

https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/56651967-king-of-battle-and-blood

******** 

My Review: 5/5 Stars

Isolde has only ever wanted to protect her people and one day rule them as Queen. Specifically on her own. She doesn't believe in needing a man by her side to rule. What she doesn't expect is for her greatest enemy, the enemy that has been slowing conquering their world kingdom by kingdom, to knock on their doors and ask for her hand. What makes her so special? Why does King Adrian, a vampire, the Blood King, want from her? But she will do whatever it takes to protect her people. Even if it means marrying her enemy. Her people, her father, they expect her to kill him. And at first she does. However, there is a slight problem. Her attraction to him is one she never could have predicted. It's uncontrollable and she can't help but wonder why. Why does she want this monster? As she works through her feelings of feeling like a traitor to her people and yet falling for her enemy, she will begin to learn some truths. What exactly is going on in their world. How perhaps it isn't just the vampires who are the corrupted ones. Great story! The romance was exactly as you would expect from Scarlett and the mythologies of this world she built are super interesting. Not to mention the characters. All of them unique and interesting in their own way. I couldn't put the story down! I'm looking forward to the next book!

Aurora Cycle Book 3: Aurora's End by Amie Kaufman & Jay Kristoff

Aurora Cycle Book 3

The squad you love is out of time. Prepare for the thrilling finale in the epic, best-selling Aurora Cycle series about a band of unlikely heroes who just might be the galaxy's last hope for survival.

Is this the end?

What happens when you ask a bunch of losers, discipline cases, and misfits to save the galaxy from an ancient evil? The ancient evil wins, of course.

Wait. . . . Not. So. Fast.

When we last saw Squad 312, they working together seamlessly (aka, freaking out) as an intergalactic battle raged and an ancient superweapon threatened to obliterate Earth. Everything went horribly wrong, naturally.

But as it turns out, not all endings are endings, and the te4am has one last chance to rewrite thirs. Maybe two. It's complicated.

Cue Zila, Fin, and Scarlett (and MAGELLAN!): making friends, making enemies, and making history? Sure, no problem

Cue Tyler, Kal, and Auri: uniting with two of the galaxy’s most hated villains? Um, okay. That, too.

Actually saving the galaxy, though?

Now that will take a miracle.

https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/40516976-aurora-s-end

********

My Review: 5/5 Stars 

An amazing end to an incredible trilogy! What a way to end this series. And shout out to the fact that the book started with what was basically a "previously on" to catch you up on where our heroes were when we left off. Because I was struggling to remember everything that happened in the last book, but thanks to that catch up, everything came back. So this story. So much happens. And sorry bout a few spoilers coming just to explain what exactly is going on with our heroes. So first off, Fin, Scarlet. and Zila. When they were hit at the end of the previous book they were sent... to the past! Yes, the past. And their goal now is to get back to the future...among other things. Such as being sort of stuck in a time loop. Yeah, things get very complicated for them. But with it comes some incredible revelations on everything that has happened to them. Then there is Tyler. He is is present day and he isn't having the best time. Saedii may have saved his life but now they have to split up. Tyler keeps getting visions and with them comes an important message. Save Aurora Academy. Something is about to go down and he is the only one who can stop it. But how can he when he is the most wanted fugitive? And his team is scattered. Then there is Aurora and Kal. They were sent to the future! And it isn't one they want to come true. Now they, along with their enemy, Kal's dad, have to find a way back to the present. Because they can save the future from the horrible results. So like I said a lot happens. And all of it fantastic. I personally loved Fin, Scarlet, and Zila's storyline. They were my favorites from this book in particular. And their adventure revealed so much. Another thing I loved was all the blossoming relationships! Cheering for all of them throughout the book. This entire book and this entire series was done so so well. Every little piece coming together. And when it comes to time travel that is never easy to do. Yet, this was done excellently. So sad this series was over. Definitely a favorite of mine!

Out Today! Ignite by Melanie Harlow

Cloverleigh Farms Book 6

My new neighbor is a firefighter—and a scorching hot single dad—but I swear I didn’t set off that smoke alarm on purpose.

Ignite, an all-new smoking hot, single dad romantic comedy from USA Today and #1 Amazon bestselling author Melanie Harlow, is available now!

My new neighbor is a firefighter—and a scorching hot single dad—but I swear I didn’t set off that smoke alarm on purpose.

(And I was beyond mortified when he rushed in and saw me naked.)

Nothing happened, of course—because I, Winnie MacAllister, romance junkie and owner of a constantly broken heart, have sworn off men for one solid year. 

Even protective men with chiseled jaws, bulging biceps, and deep brown eyes that make my breath come faster. Even former SEALs with broad chests and strong hands that make my skin sizzle. Even gorgeous, grumpy guys who have their hands full raising two adorable little girls and claim they don’t believe in love. 

Until Dex kisses me one night, and I drop all my defenses.

(Also my underwear.)

He says he’s not gentle, and he’s right. He says I should take the dream job I’m offered in another state, and he’s right. He says he’s too old for me and could never be the man I deserve.

He’s wrong.

Dex and I might be twelve years apart, but the fire between us is the kind that will never burn out. 

How can I convince him to give happily-ever-after with me a chance?

Fall in love with Winnie and Dex for ZERO PENNIES in Kindle Unlimited today!

Amazon: https://amzn.to/3kePkO0

Amazon Worldwide: http://mybook.to/IgniteHarlow

Audio Coming Soon, narrated by Stephen Dexter & Kirsten Leigh

Excerpt

She looked a little nervous, not that I blamed her, as she held out a small pink box of Band-Aids. “I had these lying around and thought Luna might want them for her knee. Band-Aids sometimes come off in the shower, so . . .” 

I reached out and took them from her, noticing she was careful not to let our fingers touch this time. “Thanks.” 

“That’s it—I just wanted to—um, okay, have a good night.” She turned to leave, and I probably should have let her.

“Wait a second.” 

She faced me again, her expression still wary. 

“I’m sorry about that.” I gestured over my shoulder with the pink box. “My ex-wife—the girls’ mom—knows how to get a rise out of me.” 

“Oh, that’s okay. It’s none of my business, and I didn’t really hear anything.” It was obvious she’d heard everything. 

I nodded slowly. “Well, thanks for the Band-Aids. Luna will appreciate it.”

 Her smile was back, along with that stutter in my chest. “Good. Enjoy your night.” 

“You too.” 

She turned around and went down the steps, cutting across the lawn to her place with that same youthful bounce in her step. Glancing down at the box, I shook my head—of course she had a whole thing of pink princess Band-Aids. I shut the door and trudged up the stairs to get the kids cleaned up. 

Hallie went first, after a brief attempt to get me to let her wear socks in the shower. As usual, I refused, explaining again that the entire house had been thoroughly cleaned before we moved in, and I’d been here yesterday to make sure of it. 

While she was getting dressed, I made sure Luna washed her hair and used soap, then helped her get dried off. After hanging up their towels, I double-checked that they’d chosen appropriate clothing and was just about to get in my own shower when I heard a series of high-pitched beeps. 

“What’s that?” Hallie said, scrunching up her face. 

Instantly on high alert, I put my hand up. “Shh.” I heard it again, and recognized it as a smoke detector going off, but not in our house—we were hearing it through the walls. “Stay here.” 

I raced out of their room and took the stairs down three at a time, jumping to the bottom with five to go. Barreling out my front door, I ran over to Winnie’s and knocked. The alarm was clearly coming from inside her unit, and when she didn’t answer the door, I made a split-second decision to bust in. 

Fortunately, the door wasn’t locked. 

I shouldered it open, relieved when I didn’t see or smell smoke right away. Winnie’s townhouse was laid out exactly like mine, and I immediately realized the detector going off was upstairs. Racing up the steps three at a time, I reached the master bedroom doorway just in time to see Winnie climbing onto a suitcase, one hand reaching toward the ceiling to disconnect the unit. 

My jaw dropped. 

She was totally naked and dripping wet.

One hand was clutching a small towel to her chest that didn’t fucking hide anything . Behind her, steam from her shower billowed from her bathroom, which must have been what set off the alarm—some detectors are that sensitive. Behind me, I heard clamoring on the stairs, and a second later both Hallie and Luna rushed into the bedroom. 

Startled, Winnie looked over and saw us. Her eyes went wide as she screamed, lost her footing, and toppled backward off the suitcase. She landed hard on her ass, arms and legs flailing like a rag doll. 

Averting my eyes, I strode over and disconnected the unit while she scrambled toward the bathroom on her hands and knees, presumably in search of a bigger towel. 

But then she slammed the door . . . and didn’t come out. 

The eighty-five decibel alarm had ceased, but the sirens in my head continued.

I looked at the girls. Luna had her hands over her mouth. Hallie’s eyes were wide, and she pointed to the bathroom door. “Winnie was naked,” she whispered. “We saw her bum.” 

“Quiet,” I scolded angrily. “You two were supposed to stay at our house. You didn’t follow my orders.” 

“But Daddy, we were scared,” Luna said. Her hair was still wet and tangled. “We came to find you.”

“We’ll talk about it later, but when I tell you to stay put, you stay put-especially in an emergency. Understand?” 

They nodded. 

“Now go back to our house, both of you.”

“But what about Winnie? Is she okay?”

I went over to the bathroom door and knocked, trying not to picture her naked. The shower wasn’t running anymore. “Winnie? Are you okay?” 

“I’m fine!” 

“Are you hurt?”

 “I’m fine!” she repeated in the same false, bright tone.

 A tiny smile inched onto my lips. “Are you sure?” 

About Melanie Harlow

USA Today bestselling author Melanie Harlow likes her martinis dry, her heels high, and her history with the naughty bits left in. When she's not writing or reading, she gets her kicks from TV series like Ted, Lasso, Schitt’s Creek, and Fleabag. She occasionally runs three miles, but only so she can have more gin and steak.

Melanie is the author of the BELLAMY CREEK series, the CLOVERLEIGH FARMS series, the ONE & ONLY series, AFTER WE FALL series, the HAPPY CRAZY LOVE series, and the FRENCHED series. She lifts her glass to romance readers and writers from her home near Detroit, MI, where she lives with her husband, two daughters, and pet rabbit.

Connect with Melanie

Facebook: http://bit.ly/2RPwr51

Amazon: http://amzn.to/1NPkYKs

Bookbub: http://bit.ly/36kL7yB

Instagram: http://bit.ly/2NW3UtA

Pinterest: http://bit.ly/2sVOz55

Facebook Reader Group: https://bit.ly/3mYzBBo

Stay up to date, sign up for Melanie’s mailing list: http://bit.ly/2P7MATT

Website: www.melanieharlow.com  

Check Out My Review Here:

https://myfuture-mybooks-mylife.blogspot.com/2021/11/cloverleigh-farms-book-6-ignite-by.html

 

Cloverleigh Farms Book 6: Ignite by Melanie Harlow

Cloverleigh Farms Book 6

My new neighbor is a firefighter—and a scorching hot single dad—but I swear I didn’t set off that smoke alarm on purpose.

(And I was beyond mortified when he rushed in and saw me naked.)

Nothing happened, of course—because I, Winnie MacAllister, romance junkie and owner of a constantly broken heart, have sworn off men for one solid year.

Even protective men with chiseled jaws, bulging biceps, and deep brown eyes that make my breath come faster. Even former SEALs with broad chests and strong hands that make my skin sizzle. Even gorgeous, grumpy guys who have their hands full raising two adorable little girls and claim they don’t believe in love.

Until Dex kisses me one night, and I drop all my defenses.

(Also my underwear.)

He says he’s not gentle, and he’s right. He says I should take the dream job I’m offered in another state, and he’s right. He says he’s too old for me and could never be the man I deserve.

He’s wrong.

Dex and I might be twelve years apart, but the fire between us is the kind that will never burn out.

How can I convince him to give happily-ever-after with me a chance?

https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/59451434-ignite

********

My Review: 5/5 Stars

The future generation of Cloverleigh Farms begins! We jump many years later to the kids's stories of the original couples we loved in the previous Cloverleigh Farms books. Now they are adults and it is time for them to get their own happily ever afters. Starting with Winnie. The daughter of Mack and Frannie from the very first Cloverleigh Farms books. Winnie is a bit of a romantic. Okay, a big romantic. She falls in love fast and deep. And always gets her heart broken in the end. But not this time. She won't allow herself to fall. She made a bet with her best friend Ellie that she wouldn't fall in love for the next six months. This is her time. That is until the new neighbor moves in next door...and not just any neighbor. A sexy fireman with two adorable little girls. How can she resist the slightly older single dad who looks at her like she is the most beautiful woman in the world? Turns out, she kind of can't. However, that won't stop her from trying to keep what they have between them casual. For now. Meanwhile, Dex has sworn off happily ever afters. His marriage ended in divorce and though they are pretty civil with one another, he know she is better off alone. His two daughters are more than enough. And he has guarded his heart for so long, no way will he let is reopen. Not even for Winnie. Beautiful, young Winnie or makes him feel like he is back in his 20s and not his 30s. Who adores and treats his daughters so well. But he won't hold her back. Not when she has been offered her dream job in another state. Not when she deserves more than him. But how long will it take for both of their defenses to truly fall? Loved their story! So fun being back in this world with the next generation. So many cameos from favorite characters. And getting to know Winnie as a young woman after seeing her as a kid was so great! Plus her and Dex's chemistry was fantastic! You'll love their connection and their love story. Can't wait to read more from this series!

I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.

 

Black Dagger Brotherhood Prison Camp Book 2: The Wolf by J.R. Ward

BDB Prison Camp Book 2

Return to the sizzling glymera’s prison camp in this dark and sexy second novel in the new Black Dagger Brotherhood Prison Camp spin-off series from the #1 New York Times bestselling author J.R. Ward.

In the next installment of bestselling author J.R. Ward’s Prison Camp series, things get steamy when Lucan, a wolven forced into bartering drug deals for the infamous Prison Colony, meets Rio, the second in command for the shadowy Caldwell supplier, Mozart. After a deal goes awry, a wolf with piercing golden eyes swoops in to save her from certain death. As shocking truths unfurl, Rio is uncertain of who to trust and what to believe—but with her life on the line, true love rears its head and growls in the face of danger.

https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/56898299-the-wolf

********

My Review: 5/5 Stars 

It's always fun diving back into this world and I was definitely excited for this particular storyline involving the prison camp. This time we get Lucan's story. The wolven who was thrown in the prison by his pack because he was half wolven and half vampire. After the previous prison camp story, the prisoners of the prison were moved to a new location. A location the Black Dagger Brotherhood are working hard on trying to find. Lucan's particular job at the prison was being a drug dealer. He is the one sent to Caldwell to do the deals and make money for the prison. And as much as he wishes he can walk away, he can't. Not when those he cares for (don't listen to his denials) are still in danger. Specifically one friend (again ignore all of their denials for being brothers/friends). So he'll do what he can to make sure they survive. What he doesn't expect is Rio. Rio has been an undercover cop for over a year. She is super close to get the evidence to close this case. She meets her contact Luke and everything blows up in her face. Her identity is compromised and now she has to do what she does best: survive. But she won't be alone. Not with Lucan watching out for her. They'll have to work together if they want to make it out alive. We also get some of Vishous's point of view as he leads the charge with Rhage to find the prison. Among other things at least. Really liked this one! And I need the next one stat! There are still some prisoners left who's stories I definitely need. I wonder who will be next! 

Shatter Me Series Book 6.5: Believe Me by Tahereh Mafi

Shatter Me Book 6.5

The devastatingly romantic fifth novella in the New York Times and USA Today bestselling Shatter Me series, chronicling the events after Imagine Me, the explosive sixth novel.

Juliette and Warner fought hard to take down the Reestablishment once and for all. Life in the aftermath isn’t easy, as they and their friends at the Sanctuary work with their limited resources to stabilize the world.

Warner has his sights set on more than just politics. Since he proposed to Juliette two weeks ago, he’s been eager to finally marry her, the person he loves more than anything and has endured so much to be with. But with so much chaos around them, it’s been nearly impossible for them to have a wedding. And even Juliette has been distracted by everything they need to do.

At long last, Warner and Juliette’s future together is within reach, but the world continues to try to pull them apart. Will they finally be able to be happily, officially, together?

Celebrate the tenth anniversary of Tahereh Mafi's bestselling Shatter Me series with Believe Me!

https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/58517502-believe-me

********

My Review: 5/5 Stars

Finally! It feels like we have been waiting a long time for this book. When we reached the end of the series with Imagine Me, not going to lie, I was a bit disappointed that we didn't get to actually see Juliette/Ella and Warner's wedding. But we've finally do! A long time coming for this series. And the best part is that it is in Warner's point of view. Warner is definitely favorite of mine. You can't help but love the guy after knowing and understanding every single thing he has been through. Why he is the way he is. And my heart always goes to him when you see that still Juliette is probably the only one who truly gets him. Why he acts the way he does. Come on everyone, the guy is an empath who drowns in everyone's emotions at all times. Forgive him for being a bit cranky at the time. Though by the end of this story, I think some are starting to get what is going on in his head just a tiny bit. Anyway! This story was such a sweet way to truly tie up the series. Warner and Juliette finally get a chance to have their wedding. Though of course, it wouldn't be them without a few things standing in their way of the big day. Lot of fun and beautiful moments. And that peek at the future of the world they worked hard to fight for and rebuild. This was just a really satisfying story after the emotional rollercoaster that was this series. Definitely worth checking out if you love the series!

The Four Horsemen Book 4: Death by Laura Thalassa

The Four Horsemen Book 4

They came to earth--Pestilence, War, Famine, Death--four horsemen riding their screaming steeds, racing to the corners of the world. Four horsemen with the power to destroy all of humanity. They came to earth, and they came to end us all.

He’s known by many names: Thanatos. Horseman. God’s last angel. And then, of course, there's the one I’m all too familiar with—

Death.

The day Death comes to Lazarus Gaumond’s town and kills everyone in one fell swoop, the last thing he expects to see is a woman left alive and standing. But Lazarus has her own extraordinary gift: she cannot be killed—not by humans, not by the elements, not by Death himself.

She is the one soul Death doesn’t recognize. The one soul he cannot pry free from her flesh. Nor can he ignore the unsettling desire he has for her. Take her. He wants to, desperately. And the longer she tries to stop him from his killing spree, the stronger the desire becomes.

When Lazarus crosses paths with the three other horsemen, an unthinkable situation leads to a terrible deal: seduce Death, save the world. A hopeless task, made all the worse by the bad blood between her and Thanatos. But Death’s attraction to her is undeniable, and try though she might, Lazarus cannot stay away from that ancient, beautiful being and his dark embrace.

The end is here. Humankind is set to perish, and not even the horsemen can stop Death from fulfilling his final task.

Only Lazarus can.

https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/49491650-death

********

My Review: 5/5 Stars 

Finally! We get Death's story and it was a pretty crazy and a great conclusion to this series. I have to say that Death/Thanatos was always my favorite character throughout the series. Each time he made an appearance I just loved him more and I couldn't wait until we got his book. He surprised me at the end of Famine's story however, I still wanted to know his story. And he was the most surprising and complicated character of all. When it comes to Thanatos he has the hardest job of all and no one truly realizes his feelings about the situation. He is torn between duty and love. We've seen Death spare and help his brothers but when it comes to his time, he just can't bring himself to do the same. To others he may seem like he enjoys the deaths his presence brings. But he doesn't. He is probably the most sympathetic toward humanity, however, his sense of duty is just as strong. He knows his purpose and has never failed to follow orders. So what will it take to change him? Truth is, a lot. Even meeting and falling for Lazarus isn't quite enough. Lazarus's own story is intriguing as well. And she is another fated to one of these horsemen. Likes her namesake, she can't exactly die. Each injury and each death brings her right back to life. Not even Death himself can take her. Like previous books the horsemen and the woman they fall for will fight and even aim to kill the other. But it can only go so far. For Lazarus, she has seen so many deaths. Her family. She wants to stop Death more than anything and she'll do whatever it takes. Even teaming up with Death's brothers. Thanatos and Lazarus were fantastic together. Truly the definition of Life and Death. And how those two things go hand in hand. One cannot be without the other. The story took a lot of surprising twists and turns. And it was all really great. I couldn't put the book down. Just when you thought one thing would happen something else did. A really great and satisfying conclusion to this series!

Cover Reveal! Ignite by Melanie Harlow

Ignite, an all new sexy-as-sin single dad, age gap, small town romance from USA Today and #1 Amazon bestselling author Melanie Harlow is coming November 22nd, and we have the five alarm cover!

My new neighbor is a firefighter—and a scorching hot single dad—but I swear I didn’t set off that smoke alarm on purpose.

(And I was beyond mortified when he rushed in and saw me naked.)

Nothing happened, of course—because I, Winnie MacAllister, romance junkie and owner of a constantly broken heart, have sworn off men for one solid year. 

Even protective men with chiseled jaws, bulging biceps, and deep brown eyes that make my breath come faster. Even former SEALs with broad chests and strong hands that make my skin sizzle. Even gorgeous, grumpy guys who have their hands full raising two adorable little girls and claim they don’t believe in love. 

Until Dex kisses me one night, and I drop all my defenses.

(Also my underwear.)

He says he’s not gentle, and he’s right. He says I should take the dream job I’m offered in another state, and he’s right. He says he’s too old for me and could never be the man I deserve.

He’s wrong.

Dex and I might be twelve years apart, but the fire between us is the kind that will never burn out. 

How can I convince him to give happily-ever-after with me a chance?

Reserve your copy today!

Amazon: https://amzn.to/3kePkO0

Amazon Worldwide: http://mybook.to/IgniteHarlow

Audio Coming Soon, narrated by Stephen Dexter & Kirsten Leigh

Cover Designer: Hang Le @byhangle

Photographer: Michelle Lancaster @lanefotograf

Model: Andrew Biernat @andrew.biernat

Read Chapter One: https://www.melanieharlow.com/ignite-chapter-one/

About Melanie Harlow

USA Today bestselling author Melanie Harlow likes her martinis dry, her heels high, and her history with the naughty bits left in. When she's not writing or reading, she gets her kicks from TV series like Ted, Lasso, Schitt’s Creek, and Fleabag. She occasionally runs three miles, but only so she can have more gin and steak.

Melanie is the author of the BELLAMY CREEK series, the CLOVERLEIGH FARMS series, the ONE & ONLY series, AFTER WE FALL series, the HAPPY CRAZY LOVE series, and the FRENCHED series. She lifts her glass to romance readers and writers from her home near Detroit, MI, where she lives with her husband, two daughters, and pet rabbit.

Connect with Melanie

Facebook: http://bit.ly/2RPwr51

Amazon: http://amzn.to/1NPkYKs

Bookbub: http://bit.ly/36kL7yB

Instagram: http://bit.ly/2NW3UtA

Pinterest: http://bit.ly/2sVOz55

Facebook Reader Group: https://bit.ly/3mYzBBo

Stay up to date, sign up for Melanie’s mailing list: http://bit.ly/2P7MATT

Website: www.melanieharlow.com 

 

Daughter of the Deep by Rick Riordan

New York Times #1 best-selling author Rick Riordan pays homage to Jules Verne in his exciting modern take on 20,000 Leagues Under the Sea.

Ana Dakkar is a freshman at Harding-Pencroft Academy, a five-year high school that graduates the best marine scientists, naval warriors, navigators, and underwater explorers in the world. Ana's parents died while on a scientific expedition two years ago, and the only family's she's got left is her older brother, Dev, also a student at HP. Ana's freshman year culminates with the class's weekend trial at sea, the details of which have been kept secret. She only hopes she has what it'll take to succeed. All her worries are blown out of the water when, on the bus ride to the ship, Ana and her schoolmates witness a terrible tragedy that will change the trajectory of their lives.

But wait, there's more. The professor accompanying them informs Ana that their rival school, Land Institute, and Harding-Pencroft have been fighting a cold war for a hundred and fifty years. Now that cold war has been turned up to a full broil, and the freshman are in danger of becoming fish food. In a race against deadly enemies, Ana will make amazing friends and astounding discoveries about her heritage as she puts her leadership skills to the test for the first time.

https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/57094644-daughter-of-the-deep

********

My Review: 5/5 Stars 

This book was amazing! No surprise since it was Rick Riordan, but still so good! And I wish there was more. There is so many possibilities with this story I hate to see it end here. Maybe it won't be, but for now it's alone. So this story follows Ana Dakkar. A freshman at Harding-Pencrodt Academy where the school produces the graduates of anything that deals with the ocean. The academy is broken up into four groups based on your study. The story begins with Ana and her fellow freshmen heading away from school for the weekend for their trials that will determine if they will move on to sophomore year. However, as they leave the school, an earthquake occurs but it isn't exactly normal. Ana and her friends turn around and face the horror of their beloved school breaking from the cliff it stood on and into the sea. Their friends, family, teachers, gone. And it wasn't an accident. Their rival school, Land Institute, opened fired on them and they are after Ana next. Things only take off from there. Secrets are revealed about HP Academy and what their trials meant. Secrets about Ana's family. Ana and her older brother Dev were orphans after their parents died two years earlier on a mission for HP, but there was more to the accident than Ana knew or realized. Everyone in this story will have to step up in their roles and try to survive. With so much on the line it will take everything they have. The story is inspired by 20,000 Leagues Under the Sea in so, so many ways. Their world is built off of it but answering the question of, what if it was real? Riordan may warn you himself and even through Ana what a difficult book that classic was but after reading this story I have to say I'm kind of interested in giving it a try. The adventure, the characters, and the endless plot twists kept me from putting this book down. You will not be disappointed in Rick's attempt to bring another myth or retelling to life. Loved it! And definitely wish there was more. 

Shadow City Silver Wolf Book 1: Broken Mate by Jen L. Grey

Shadow City Silver Wolf Book 1

Some things are inevitable, even with a fated mate.

As the future alpha of the Silver Wolves, my life was carefully planned: stay hidden and learn to fight. But that didn't happen. My pack was slaughtered and now I’m running for my life.

In my search for safety, I discover something else.

My fated mate.

The handsome jerk alpha can offer me something that no one else can--protection.

The more I try to fight our mate bond, the more fate pushes us together, but I fear the price may be too much for both of us.

As a hidden enemy hunts me, difficult decisions must be made. Choices that will alter my life forever or end it completely.

https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/59360636-broken-mate

*********

My Review: 4/5 Stars 

Sterlyn is part of secret race of wolves. The Silver Wolves. They withdrew from the paranormal world centuries ago when others used them to do bad things. Silver Wolves are very different from normal wolf shifters. They gain their strength from the moon and were always meant to be strong. They were also meant to be protectors. They train every day to be strong until the day comes where they can reveal themselves once more. Sterlyn is the daughter of the Alpha and with her silver hair, it is a sign that she is the next Alpha of their pack. But one day Sterlyn slips away from her pack for a few hours and soon realizes that her pack is under attack. She races back but she is too late. Everyone was slaughtered. Her dying father makes it to her to warn her to run and to head to Shadow City and find the wolf alpha, Atticus. She can trust him. She runs and is chased. Eventually she makes a desperate attempt to escape and almost dies. She is rescued later by a wold shifter Killian. She admits to him that bad shifters are after her. He reveals that he lost his own family a few years ago and he'll help her. He also asks if she could pretend to date him to avoid the pressures of being a young unattached alpha. But this isn't some fake dating turned real story. Her bond with Killian is one of sibling nature. Especially when Killian's best friend Griffin enters the picture. Immediately, Sterlyn feels a tug toward him. And that can only mean one thing. And if that wasn't complicated enough, there are still others after Sterlyn. She can only hide for so long before someone comes looking. I really enjoyed this latest shifter world from Jen. And of course like all her series, there is a cliffhanger ending which means I need the next book asap! I'm excited to see where this series takes us and the different supernaturals that come along the way. 

I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.

Well Met Series Book 3: Well Matched by Jen DeLuca

Well Met Series Book 3

Single mother April Parker has lived in Willow Creek for twelve years with a wall around her heart. On the verge of being an empty nester, she's decided to move on from her quaint little town, and asks her friend Mitch for his help with some home improvement projects to get her house ready to sell.

Mitch Malone is known for being the life of every party, but mostly for the attire he wears to the local Renaissance Faire -- a kilt (and not much else) that shows off his muscled form to perfection. While he agrees to help April, he needs a favor too: she'll pretend to be his girlfriend at an upcoming family dinner, so that he can avoid the lectures about settling down and having a more "serious" career than high school coach and gym teacher. April reluctantly agrees, but when dinner turns into a weekend trip, it becomes hard to tell what's real and what's been just for show. But when the weekend ends, so must their fake relationship.

As summer begins, Faire returns to Willow Creek, and April volunteers for the first time. When Mitch's family shows up unexpectedly, April pretends to be Mitch's girlfriend again... something that doesn't feel so fake anymore. Despite their obvious connection, April insists they've just been putting on an act. But when there's the chance for something real, she has to decide whether to change her plans -- and open her heart -- for the kilt-wearing hunk who might just be the love of her life.

An accidentally in-love rom-com filled with Renaissance Faire flower crowns, kilts, corsets, and sword fights.

https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/56845755-well-matched

********

My Review: 5/5 Stars 

Mitch and April's book! Finally! This is such a fun series and I love that we keep getting more and more from it. April and Mitch's story was just another great one in this series. Fun, hilarious, romantic, and the joy that comes from the Ren Faires. So it's been a few years since book one. April is getting ready to watch her now eighteen-year-old daughter, Caitlin, graduate high school and go to college. April has waited a long time for this moment, not being she doesn't love her kid, but because it means those long ago plans she made can finally happen. She never planned to stay in Willow Creek forever. It was just the perfect place to raise her daughter. But now she can move to the city and find a smaller place. It's what she always wanted, right? As she gets her house ready to sell, she finds herself in need of some help. Good thing someone owes her a favor or two. Mitch is in need of a little help. The survive a weekend with all of his family, he asks April to be his fake girlfriend. Surely then his parents and family will get off his back about being single. As April and Mitch fall into their roles, April can't help but realize that there is something so comfortable and natural about being with Mitch. And the lines of real and pretend start to blur. Even when they survive the weekend, Mitch helps April with her house and everything gets complicated for April. Can she let herself fall for Mitch? Is it real or pretend? Things are changing for April. And she is looking at Willow Creek in a new way. She even volunteers at the Ren Faire for the first time. But April hasn't felt loved by anyone but her daughter in almost two decades. Can she open her heart to Mitch? Loved their story! It was nice to get to know April a lot better. And even Mitch. We see sides of them we haven't seen before and really start to understand more about them. Their story was so fun and cute. I couldn't put it down! And we meet the heroine for the next book and I can't wait to see more of her and her story!

A Flesh and Fire Novel Book 1: A Shadow in the Ember by Jennifer L. Armentrout

A Flesh and Fire Novel Book 1

The Flesh and Fire series is set in the beloved Blood and Ash world.

Born shrouded in the veil of the Primals, a Maiden as the Fates promised, Seraphena Mierel’s future has never been hers. Chosen before birth to uphold the desperate deal her ancestor struck to save his people, Sera must leave behind her life and offer herself to the Primal of Death as his Consort.

However, Sera’s real destiny is the most closely guarded secret in all of Lasania—she’s not the well protected Maiden but an assassin with one mission—one target. Make the Primal of Death fall in love, become his weakness, and then…end him. If she fails, she dooms her kingdom to a slow demise at the hands of the Rot.

Sera has always known what she is. Chosen. Consort. Assassin. Weapon. A specter never fully formed yet drenched in blood. A monster. Until him. Until the Primal of Death’s unexpected words and deeds chase away the darkness gathering inside her. And his seductive touch ignites a passion she’s never allowed herself to feel and cannot feel for him. But Sera has never had a choice. Either way, her life is forfeit—it always has been, as she has been forever touched by Life and Death.

https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/57446424-a-shadow-in-the-ember

********

My Review: 5/5 Stars

I'm blown away by this book. Absolutely amazing and I demand to have the next one immediately. WOW! After learning that we were getting a bit of prequel series to From Blood and Ash series, I was beyond excited. There is so much history to that world that was yet to be revealed. So much that we didn't know and that our characters didn't know. So to take it back to the beginning, to see how things were and what had occurred to lead to the changes and the current situations that are going on in From Blood and Ash, I couldn't wait to find out and I was not let down. So since I mentioned history, let me start there. The world building has only gotten richer and the world before the Atlantians, where the Primals and gods were awake was incredible and incredibly different. You learn A LOT of important information in this book. Information that made things in all of the From Blood and Ash books that are out so far make a lot more sense and I'm sure will continue to shape the books to come. I loved learning and meeting all these characters. 

Sera and Nyktos. OMG I love them. When you are reading you see exactly where Poppy gets everything from. It was absolutely hilarious to see the parallels. And I loved every moment of them. So let's start with Sera. Sera was born to do one thing. To end the Rot that has plagued her land and fulfill the deal her ancestor made to be the Consort to the Primal of Death. But her ancestors want her to do more than just become his Consort. They told her she must make him love her. To become his weakness. Then end him. That is the true way to end the Rot. Yet when the day comes, Nyktos arrives and tells her he has no need of her. Everything spirals from there. She has failed her duty and has to pay the price. Three years pass and Sera has been pushed to be more of an assassin when her mother, the Queen, needs her to be. And to be shoved aside and forgotten the rest of the time. Everything changes when she meets Ash, a god she meets when she comes across a few gods killing mortals. Their connection is instant. But both know that being near one another is a bad idea. Until the day comes where everything changes and Ash reveals himself to be Nyktos and claims her at last. Truths are revealed about the deal that sealed Sera's fate. And not only that but there is much more going on in their world than Sera originally knew. Nyktos. Wow. I don't even think I can put into words how much I love Nyktos. His power and fierce devotion to those who he considers his is stronger than anything that Sera believed possible. And though she knows her duty is to end him, she is in consistent conflict with herself because he is nothing like he was said to be. Their story is so much more than just Sera fighting to figure out what to do when it comes to her duty. There is so much more going on that is constantly changing the story and issues. I can't even say it because it would be quite the amount of spoilers. But basically the theme is not everything is as it seems and not even a Primal as powerful as Nyktos knows all when it comes to their future. 

If you have loved the From Blood and Ash series so far, there is no doubt you will love this one. Sera and Nyktos are kick ass characters who are similar yet so different to Poppy and Casteel. Then we have side characters like the gods and of course the draken. Wait until you read about them!!! The enemies are stirring in this story. We see and get glimpses and the beginnings of fights and possibly even a war of Primals that is yet to come. The action and world building are incredible. And the romance... WOW! You won't be disappointed. And the story isn't even over yet. That cliffhanger is a game changer. We may know bits of the future from reading the From Blood and Ash series so far but there are so many pieces we don't know yet. Things we don't even truly understand because a lot has been so vague and unknown to our characters. Absolutely amazing. Definitely a favorite of mine from this world so far. And I cannot wait for the next one. 

I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.