LSU Book 2: Sidelined by Becca Steele

LSU Book 2

I’ve been in love with my best friend, Ander, for as long as I can remember. I’ve always kept my feelings to myself, knowing that I’d never have a chance because he’s straight.

Until the day he does me a favour by pretending to be my boyfriend.

After that, things change. He’s suddenly interested in experimenting with guys…just not with me.

It’s time for me to move on, and accept that nothing between us will ever change. He only sees me as his best friend.

Except…now he’s looking at me in a different way.

Does he feel something more than friendship for me, or am I just deluding myself?

I guess it’s time to find out.

https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/60902436-sidelined

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My Review: 4/5 Stars

Elliot has been in love with his best friend Ander for a long time. Too bad Ander is oblivious to Elliot's feelings and is straight. Elliot has tried to move on and meet someone else, but no one can match up to Ander. But then Ander protects him by pretending to be his boyfriend and what follows is a kiss that will change them both forever. Ander has never been interested in a guy before but after kissing Elliot, he wonders if he was missing out. He decides to experiment and see if that was a one time feeling or something else. Elliot hates the fact that Ander will have even more people in his life to hook up with. It was painful enough to watch him with the girls he dated, but now guys? It's too much. So then why does Ander seem to look at him different? These two will drive you crazy as they both have feelings for one another but truly believe the other doesn't. Then add in the fact that neither want to lose their friendship. But in the end, you gotta love those two. They both are clearly very much in love with each other and care for the other in ways that no one else can match. You just wanna shake them to communicate a lot better! Really loved this story though and characters we have met in other books. I also have a theory on who the next book could be about, I'm hoping to be proven right! 

Leighton U Book 1: Iced Out by C.E. Ricci

Leighton U Book 1

All's fair in hate and hockey.

My path to success never included an enemy as a teammate, especially one as infuriating as Quinton de Haas.

Clawing under my skin is his favorite pastime, only feeding the animosity between us as the years pass.

We’re as completely opposite as two people can be; the golden boy and the black sheep.

Constantly at odds or at each other’s throats.

The only thing we can agree on is hockey is our true love, and we’ll do whatever it takes to come out on top.

I never imagined that drive would lead me to do the unthinkable: falling into bed with my not-so-straight rival.

But athletes are a superstitious bunch, and when our hook-ups lead to victories, we tell ourselves we can’t stop.

Besides, it’s all for the sake of the team, right?

*Iced Out is the first in a five book standalone college sports romance series featuring two misunderstood rival teammates, pages of snarky banter, and more secret spicy times than any book should be filled with. Not suitable for anyone under 18 years of age.*

https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/60469260-iced-out

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My Review: 5/5 Stars

Oakley and Quinton's rivalry on the ice is clear to any who watch them play against one another. Both can't help but get under the other's skin with their endless banter. Especially with Quinton the hot head always getting into fights and making a fighter out of Oakley the pacifist. What neither expect is to be put on the same team for college. But four years later, they are seniors and ready for their final year of college hockey. One more season to get that championship cup. But this year is different. Oak and Quinn are on the same line on the ice, they have to learn to work together. Too bad it is easier said than done. But when they both attend a party the night before a game and push one another over the edge, the results spark in something neither could have predicted. An epic hook up the night before leads to a W the next day. And when it comes to hockey players, they can't help but look at what was done differently, those superstitious bunch. What starts as a need to keep the good vibes going and the wins coming, lead to the two of them finally letting their guards down enough to get to know one another. And it's only a matter of time before things start changing. There is also a secret that threatens to take down all the good that has formed between the two. Loved this story! It was definitely a fun enemies to lover story that I couldn't put down. Oak and Quinn are such a great match with their constant banter, Definitely looking forward to more books in this series!

Adrian x Isolde Book 2: Queen of Myth and Monsters by Scarlett St. Clair

Adrian x Isolde Book 2

The next book in the epic fantasy series by USA Today bestselling author Scarlett St. Clair.

Isolde, newly coronated queen, has finally found a king worthy of her in the vampire Adrian. But their love for each other has cost Isolde her father and her homeland. With two opposing goddesses playing mortals and vampires like chess pieces against one another, Isolde is uncertain who her allies are in the vampire stronghold of Revekka.

Now, as politics in the Red Palace grow more underhanded and a deadly blood mist threatens all of Cordova, Isolde must trust in the bond she's formed with Adrian, even as she learns troubling information about his complicated past.

https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/60439283-queen-of-myth-and-monsters

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My Review: 4/5 Stars 

Recovering from the losses, betrayal, and new revelations of their recent battle, Isolde and Adrian still have plenty of trouble coming their way. But there are plenty of lights in the darkness. The most important is Isolde remembering who she was in her past life and being reunited with Adrian. They still have a lot to overcome and learn about one another but in the end they always find a way back to each other. Together they will have to find a way to stop the forces that threaten to tear them and their home apart. While also become unwilling chess pieces in the game of the goddesses. Plenty of romance, action, secrets, betrayals, and just about anything you can expect in a fantasy world like this. This story will keep you on your toes from beginning to end. The world is interesting and different from other vampire and fantasy books I have read. Another great book in this series and I'm looking forward to the next one!

Don't You Dare by C.E. Ricci

It was never meant to be more than a dare.

A party game. A dare. A single kiss.

That’s all it took to flip my world upside down.

I’ve always classified myself as straight, and as far as I can tell, so has he.

I didn’t think one kiss would change that, but I was so wrong.

Now, I can’t stop thinking about him. In all the ways I shouldn’t.

My best friend.

Aspen.

His taste is branded in my memory, his touch seared in my skin.

And I want more.

This simmering attraction I feel only grows with passing time.

Which is why I start tossing out new dares.

Riskier ones that toe lines we never thought we’d cross.

I’m gambling with our friendship, knowing it could ruin us.

But there’s so much more at stake here.

Like my heart.

*Don't You Dare is a new adult college romance featuring two best friends, too many baseball puns, scorching dirty talk, and a whole lot of bi-curious exploration. Not suitable for anyone under 18 years of age.* 

https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/58511930-don-t-you-dare

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My Review: 4/5 Stars 

Aspen and Keene have been inseparable their entire lives. You can't find one without the other. And no one knows them like they know one another. So it was only a matter of time until there was a shift into something a little more than best friends. A dare and a kiss that changed everything. The first time they kissed, it changed everything for Keene for what he knew about himself. So when it happens again a few years later, he has to admit to Aspen that he isn't as straight as he thought he was and that he wants to explore this part of his sexuality. Next thing Keene knows, Aspen is volunteering himself for the job of helping Keene out. But with any relationship that swears to keep emotions out of it, of course emotions come flooding in. Though in their case, it is a bit different. Because how can two people who have known and loved one another their entire lives, not cross that final line of having a love that changes to a romantic love? These two are clearly soulmates in every way of the word but getting them to realize that may just take a bit of time. this best friends to lover story will have you on a rollercoaster of emotions as you watch them fall deeply in love but overthink just about everything. Definitely a great story worth reading!

LSU Book 1: Blindsided by Becca Steele

LSU Book 1

My first year at university started with a bang…literally.

I crashed into someone’s car. Even worse? It turns out that the person I blindsided is my new housemate, Liam, second-year student and football player.

It’s hate at first sight…until it isn’t.

But even if he doesn’t hate me anymore, it doesn’t change the fact that he’s straight.

At least, I thought he was.

One night, one kiss, and everything I thought I knew turns upside down.

They say actions speak louder than words.

And his actions tell me that he wants me.

Blindsided is a standalone M/M new adult college romance with roommates to lovers, enemies to lovers, and bi awakening themes. This book contains mature situations and content.

https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/61258332-blindsided

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My Review: 4/5 Stars

Things start off with a bang in this first book in Becca Steele's new series. Literally. On Noah's first day at LSU he accidentally hits his car into another student's. Little did he know that the hot guy he just pissed off is one of his new housemates. Awkward to say the least. Things don't exactly start off great between the two. But then add in some sexual tension and... yep, things still aren't that great. Noah is totally crushing on Liam despite knowing that he is straight and he probably makes him mad more than anything. And as for Liam, he's still surly about Noah hitting his car but underneath that he is starting to realize that he is feeling something totally different for Noah as well. He can't seem to feel jealous when he sees Noah with other guys and since when did he notice how gorgeous Noah is? They have a bit of a bumpy start but once they give in to their connection, their chemistry is off the charts. But feelings are never easy. And for Liam he is just plain confused about himself, his sexuality, and his feelings for Noah. You don't want to miss this enemies to lovers story. You'll be cheering for these two to find a way to be together and take a chance on themselves. Looking forward to the next one in this series!

Alstone High Book 1.5: Cross the Line by Becca Steele

Alstone High Book 1.5

An M/M Alstone High standalone novella.

Leaving everything behind to move to England was difficult enough, but when I catch the attention of Alstone High’s bad boy for all the wrong reasons, things go from bad to worse.

He resents my position as the soccer team’s MVP, and that isn't even the worst part.

He’s figured out my secret.

He knows I want him, and he hates me for it.

But I can see right through Kian Courtland, and I’ve figured something out. Something that he won’t even admit to himself.

His secret?

He wants me, too.

Cross the Line is a standalone M/M new adult high school romance novella with enemies to lovers themes.

https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/55774830-cross-the-line

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My Review: 4/5 Stars 

This short novella follows Preston and and Kian. Two rivals who are quick to realize that the tension between them may be a bit more than rivalry on the soccer field. After getting suspended from the soccer team, Kian is pretty mad. Intentions to get the attention of his MIA parents backfires when instead of a simple phone call to bring them home leads to getting suspended from the team. In the meantime, the team needs someone to take his place. And that someone is the new American guy, Preston, who is very good at soccer. Preston is drawn to Kian despite the attitude Kian is presenting. However, Preston can see that underneath it all, that maybe Kian wants him just as badly as Preston wants him. Sparkling chemistry, it doesn't take long for these two to realize there is something between them. This was a fun novella! I picked this up because when I went to read one of Becca Steele's newer books, I quickly realized these two were in it and figured I would appreciate it more to know their backstory! Glad I did! 

Extracurricular Activities Book 3: Show Me by Neve Wilder

Extracurricular Activities Book 3

Two Roommates. One Camera. A whole lot of action.

I get crushes the way some people get seasonal allergies.

And sharing a house with four hot roommates is like being stuck in permanent spring.

Too bad I keep getting friend-zoned.

But it’s senior year now, and I’m done pining for the impossible.

Time to live it up and go out with a bang.

Or a lot of bangs.

And I’m definitely, definitely not getting attached to anyone.

Especially not my straight, gym-loving, football-player roommate Sam whose impressively large... smile I caught a glimpse of once.

Or several times.

That’s why, when Sam asks me for help with a very special, very NSFW project so he can make a little cash, of course I agree. In the name of friendship.

And if it turns out that Sam’s more than just muscles—that he’s sweet, and smart, and a little bit filthy, and a whole lot less straight than I thought—well, that’s neither here nor there, because this time I’m gonna be smart. This time, I’m friend-zoning myself.

We’ve got a list of deliciously hot scenarios, a camera, and Sam’s huge… smile. What could possibly go wrong?

https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/57442258-show-me

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My Review: 4/5 Stars 

In this latest book of this series, it is finally Jesse's turn! The poor guy has watched his roommates find the the loves of their lives, yet poor Jesse just can't seem to find himself a keeper. When he first got to college, he thought he found a great guy. That is until he caught him cheating. And all these dates and hook ups just don't ever seem to be long term or close to what he truly wants. But when their newest roommate Sam asks Jesse for help on a certain project, well things take some interesting turns. Jesse swears he won't develop a crush on Sam, who may or not be straight. But when their project starts to blur the lines, it is only a matter of time until everything comes crashing down. Sam hasn't really had much relationships and certainly nothing that has lasted. But he starts to realize the more time he spends with Jesse, the more happy he is. They form a real bond and soon Sam wonders if maybe Jesse is feeling the same pull too. These two get into some pretty hilarious and crazy shenanigans but they are just so sweet together. Both deserve someone great and they definitely get that with one another. Definitely another fun book in this series!

Extracurricular Activities Book 2: Try Me by Neve Wilder

Extracurricular Activities Book 2

Two rivals. One law internship. A whole lot of objectionable activity.

It wasn’t always this way between us.

We were best friends growing up.

Competitive? Yeah.

Ruthless? Definitely.

Neither of us liked to lose.

But the intense chemistry?

That’s new.

The hatred in his eyes?

That’s new, too.

I should let it go.

There’s too much bad blood between our families. Between us.

But I can’t.

I don’t think he can, either.

Now we’re gunning for the same internship.

If he thinks I’ll back down, he’s dead wrong.

Once upon a time, I lost everything.

I won’t let it happen again.

Go ahead. Try me.

https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/54781726-try-me

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My Review: 4/5 Stars 

Mark and Chet were best friends and inseparable as kids. But when Mark's dad get's Chet's dad in trouble and lands him in jail, things are never the same. Despite the one night Chet comes to Mark's bedroom window. But both got the warnings to stay away from one another. And despite ending up going to the same college, they did pretty well. Until things changed. A mutual friend goes off the rails, Mark blames Chet despite not asking for the full story and their distance remains. Until the night they get into a fight and realize that maybe it's time to clear the air. Also add in the fact that both end up interning at the same law office and have to work together on a project. Old feelings are stirring underneath their competitive nature and rivalries and it doesn't take long before they both crack under that pressure. Gotta love these two. Their banter and chemistry was off the charts and you can't help but root for the two of them to work it out and find a way to be together despite the challenges they face. Another fun story in this world and looking forward to the last one!

Extracurricular Activities Book 1: Want Me by Neve Wilder

Extracurricular Activities Book 1

Two roommates. One calculus exam. A whole lot of extracurricular activity.

Nate:

Living with four other guys, it's bound to happen.

Every guy's been caught taking care of business at least once, right?

It shouldn't be a big deal.

But I don't know Eric as well as my other roommates, and things are a little awkward now.

He's a loner. A mystery. Quietly confident. Smart.

Sexy as hell.

I've been happily subsisting on the typical frat guy diet of booze and sorority girls.

But the way Eric looked at me that night?

There was something there.

Something that's got me curious.

Something that's stirring up feelings I thought I'd left behind for good.

Something that's making me think I'm not as straight as I thought I was.

I can't get him off of my mind.

I don't think I want to.

So when he offers to help me study for a midterm, I take him up on it.

It's innocent.

Probably. Maybe.

There's no way I could've known what it'd start...

https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/45470330-want-me

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My Review: 4/5 Stars

After an awkward incident, Nate is questioning everything. And that everything is his sudden (or maybe not so sudden) attraction to his roommate, Eric. Now, he can't get Eric out of his head. And lucky for him, it seems that Eric feels the same way. One night of studying leads to a lot more. Setting off a chain reaction of intense hook ups and maybe even feelings? Poor Nate has no idea what to think and unfortunately is a bit of an over thinker. But it was sure fun following along as Nate tries to figure it all out. And Eric was really a great match for him. Despite Eric's own belief that Nate is just experimenting and he could have his heart broken in the end. This was a fun story of these two getting up to a whole bunch of shenanigans while denying that all their hook ups are just that. But feelings don't exactly work out that way and it was fun to see how long until both of them realized just how much the other cared. 

The World of the Narrows Book 0.5: Saint by Adrienne Young

The World of the Narrows Book 0.5

Author Adrienne Young returns to the world of The Narrows with Saint, a prequel to Fable and Namesake.

As a boy, Elias learned the hard way what happens when you don’t heed the old tales.

Nine years after his lack of superstition got his father killed, he’s grown into a young man of piety, with a deep reverence for the hallowed sea and her fickle favor. As stories of the fisherman’s son who has managed to escape the most deadly of storms spreads from port to port, his devotion to the myths and creeds has given him the reputation of the luckiest bastard to sail the Narrows.

Now, he’s mere days away from getting everything his father ever dreamed for him: a ship of his own, a crew, and a license that names him as one of the first Narrows-born traders. But when a young dredger from the Unnamed Sea with more than one secret crosses his path, Elias’ faith will be tested like never before. The greater the pull he feels toward her, the farther he drifts from the things he’s spent the last three years working for.

He is dangerously close to repeating his mistakes and he’s seen first hand how vicious the jealous sea can be. If he’s going to survive her retribution, he will have to decide which he wants more, the love of the girl who could change their shifting world, or the sacred beliefs that earned him the name that he’s known for―Saint.

https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/60505562-saint

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My Review: 5/5 Stars 

Saint was one of the most interesting characters when your first meet him in Fable. You don't truly know what to think of him and how he feels about his daughter until Namesake. Or maybe even before that if you can guess. He is just very closed off and hard to read. But knowing that he lost Fable's mother to the sea and everything that happens after, you can't help but wonder who was this man before it all happened. What was he like when he was younger? And we finally get our answer! This story takes us back to Saint's early days as he trying to build the life he wants. One of those things being getting a license to trade. And with that goal almost in his grasp, of course there is something--or should i say someone--who threatens it all. Isolde. Yep, Fable's mother. So we get the beginning of their love story and the day Isolde ran from her mother, Holland. Loved this story! Loved seeing who these characters were and to know their thoughts. It goes to show you how far these characters will go for one another when it comes to love. Love drives them more than anything. If you loved the other books in this series, you don't want to miss this one. If my to be read pile wasn't so large, I would be rereading the rest of the books. Such a fun series with unforgettable characters. 

Shadow City Silver Mate Book 2: Fated Hearts by Jen L. Grey

Silver Mate Book 2

With my world in shambles, it’s hard to tell friend from foe.

The joy of finding my fated mate is overshadowed by a dark reality.

Someone is hunting wolf shifters.

Everyone is in danger unless we can stop those responsible.

But we have to find them first.

Our only lead is a familiar face.

Once a friend.

Now an enemy.

It makes it impossible to trust anyone.

Yet we must look to other supernaturals for assistance since we’re outnumbered.

With my mate at my side, the fight rages.

Until a final revelation changes everything…

https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/63287575-fated-hearts

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My Review: 5/5 Stars

This world just gets bigger in this latest Shadow City series. The story picks up immediately where the last one left off. Jewel and Killian and the rest of the gang are in battle after rescuing Jewel’s grandfather’s pack. But getting away isn’t exactly easy. Then, even once they are home safe, it isn’t the end of humans looking to kidnap other packs. The Shadow City gang won’t stand for others getting captured and experimented on. Not when they have the power to help. So they set off to find out as much as they can. And when they do, they meet so unexpected new supernaturals with their own surprises. I won’t ruin the surprise but those who follow Jen’s series, you are gonna love this new twist! Another great book in the series. I am loving Jewel and Killian’s relationship. The two are getting to know one another better and working on being mated and what it means to have someone standing by their side. Can’t wait for their next book! I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.

 

Well Met Series Book 4: Well Traveled by Jen DeLuca

Well Met Book 4

The Renaissance Faire is on the move, and Lulu and Dex are along for the ride, in the next utterly charming rom-com from Jen DeLuca.

A high-powered attorney from a success-oriented family, Louisa "Lulu" Malone lives to work, and everything seems to be going right, until the day she realizes it’s all wrong. Lulu’s cousin Mitch introduced her to the world of Renaissance Faires, and when she spies one at a time just when she needs an escape, she leaps into the welcoming environment of turkey legs, taverns, and tarot readers. The only drawback? Dex MacLean: a guitarist with a killer smile, the Casanova of the Faire… and her traveling companion for the summer.

Dex has never had to work for much in his life, and why should he? Touring with his brothers as The Dueling Kilts is going great, and he always finds a woman at every Faire. But when Lulu proves indifferent to his many plaid charms and a shake-up threatens the fate of the band, Dex must confront something he never has before: his future.

Forced to spend days and nights together on the road, Lulu’s interest in the kilted bad boy grows as he shows her a side of himself no one else has seen. The stresses of her old lifestyle fade away as she learns to trust her intuition and follow her heart instead of her head. But when her time on the road is over, will Lulu go with her gut, or are she and Dex destined for separate paths?

https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/49839269-well-traveled

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My Review: 5/5 Stars 

I loved Lulu and Dex's story! These two were so great together and such a fun story. Lulu is an attorney and on a work trip, she decides to get some air and go to the Renaissance Faire that is in the area. She even gets to see the Dueling Kilts! The band that Stacey's boyfriend Daniel manages and contains his family members, including Dex. But as her phone keeps blowing up and her bosses are getting more and more demanding. Lulu finally snaps. Not only realizing that she will never get to the position she wants with them at the firm, but the fact that her life has been revolved around work she is happy with for far too long. So her snap leads to throwing her phone in the laundry wenches' tubs and hitching a ride with Dex and the rest of the gang for the next several weeks after her cousin, Mitch, convinces her to do so. Off the grid, Lulu gets a chance to breathe and figure out who she wants to be and have some fun for once. And she is surprised at just how much fun it is being on the road. Plus, how wonderful it is to get to know Dex. Dex, who is known for having a hook up at every faire, Lulu won't be drawn in by his charm and looks. But as the two spend more time together, Lulu begins to see a side of Dex no one else ever has. And the mask he wears and is expected to wear when he on the road. The two form a connection that just about changes everything. I loved them! It was so nice to see more of Dex and get a better sense of who he is in this book rather than what he was known for in past books. And of course it is fun to see some familiar faces. One thing I really loved was Lulu getting into the tarot cards and helping out and making friends with the fortune tellers group. We haven't seen many of those in previous books, so it was a nice new side of the faire to see. This series is just so much fun and you will want to visit a Ren Faire!

Zodiac Academy Book 8: Sorrow and Starlight by Caroline Peckham & Susanne Valenti

Zodiac Academy Book 8

All stars must fall.

Bloody, lost, broken. We live to fight another day. But with so much stolen from us, can the fates ever twist in our favour again?

My sister and I have been torn apart by shadows and despair, and now we each stand alone.

Our sorrow is spun like a web, trapping us tight, and I fear our enemies will soon come to feast upon our souls.

But if I have my way, the merciless sky will have dealt us its final fortune. It’s time for us to take back the power that’s been ripped from our grasp and turn the tide of this war.

All stars must fall, and all Phoenixes must rise.

Long live the Savage Queens.

*This will now be book 8 of 9 in the series*

***This is a dark, bully romance – don’t go expecting a sweet school for magic with friends around every corner. Fae fight for everything they own and Zodiac Academy is a cutthroat school for students aged 18+ where only the strongest prevail. There’s no Dumbledore here to save anyone’s ass and Lionel Acrux will give Voldemort a run for his money in the evil dictator category. So hold onto your stardust (broomsticks not required) and get ready for a bumpy ride***

https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/59808792-sorrow-and-starlight

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 My Review: 5/5 Stars

Oh. My. Stars. I have never been happier to have won an ARC of this book. Getting that few days head start before it came out and to avoid spoilers was just what I needed. Cause let me tell you, there is no part of this book that you want spoiled. This book was EVERYTHING. I'm going to avoid spoilers cause again, you don't want that in this story. But what a freaking wild ride. At the beginning of this story, we pick up where that heartbreaking end of the previous book left us. Our characters are grieving and trying to pick themselves back up to continue on with this war. But it is not even close to easy. Not for any of them. So much happens in this book, it's insane. You'll laugh and cry and feel every emotion in between. To me, it was all worth it to get to that ending, despite the small natural cliffhanger that will lead us to (hopefully for real this time) our final story. So a spoiler-free bit about what this book covers? Well, you better have read the previous books cause that I won't not spoil. Tory is devastated but picking up the pieces of losing Darius and having lost track of where Darcy has gone. But she has one goal in mind, to keep the promise to curse the stars for what they have done to her and Darius. She will do what she has to do. And all I gotta say is go Tory! Darcy is struggling with the curse of the Shadow Beast and finds herself with Orion. The two will go through some hell but at least in some areas, the stars seem to be on their side. The Heirs are devastated about losing Darius but are working with Tory and Geraldine and the rebels to end Lionel and find Darcy and Orion. We also get some surprising and new points of view. Some crazy truths and revelations. This book keeps you on your toes the whole time. Such an amazing story and I cannot wait to get our last book!

Ocean Pines Book 4: The Summer We Surrendered by Victoria Denault

Ocean Pines Book 4

It will always be him. Even if it can never be him.

Declan

Abbott Barlowe has always been my kryptonite.

No one has ever made me feel the things I feel when I’m with him – good and bad.

Since we were kids he’s been perfect. Good at everything from standing up to his zealot parents, to winning Stanley Cups, to instinctively knowing exactly where, and how, I want to be touched.

But it turns out I’m better at one thing – coming out.

So it doesn’t matter that he just got traded, and he’s back in town permanently. I didn’t leave my wife, and toss my entire family into the Ocean Pines gossip mill so that I could end up in a secret relationship.

Even if he’s still the only man I’ve ever dreamed about.

Abbott

My sister loves to tell me I have a knack for making the impossible possible. She might be right because even after a rocky year, when Maine got a pro team, they named me their captain.

If I can manifest my dream job, maybe I can also manifest my way back into Declan Hawkins' life.

He cut me off years ago and, scared and overwhelmed, I let him. I’ve been drowning in guilt ever since.

They say if you love something, set it free. Well, we set each other free.

So why do I keep finding myself on his doorstep when it’s too hot to sleep? And why isn’t he telling me to leave?

He deserves so much more than me… and I hope he sees it before I break both our hearts.

https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/63253947-the-summer-we-surrendered

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My Review: 5/5 Stars 

This was definitely my favorite book of this series! It's finally Declan's turn for a story and you will not be disappointed. I'll admit I wasn't his biggest fan at the start of the series, however, by the last book or so you start to realize there is a lot more to Declan. Declan returns home and he wants to be just himself. A gay man who is out and proud to be. He doesn't want to be the man he was before and he just wants to make his family happy. Even if that means holding back a bit. Not that his family will him do that for long. And coming home means he is there when his first love comes home too. Abbott. His first love and boyfriend and who broke his heart when they were teenagers. But both have come a long way since then. Abbott has never had the option of being himself when he has a pro hockey career on the line. However, he isn't ready to lose Declan. Not again. The two have a lot of things to get through. Declan still deals with depression and Abbott with staying sober. And that is just a piece of so many other things they are dealing with. Neither are perfect but are definitely perfect for one another. I adored their story. I couldn't put it down and I'm definitely sad it's over already! A really great series. You don't want to miss this one.

Christmas on Firefly Hill by Garrett Leigh

The single dad and the rootless vagabond. Expect: a shy, hunky firefighter and an ethereal dancer down on his luck. A sizzling contemporary MM age-gap holiday romance. Mild hurt-comfort, found family, and friends-to-lovers galore.

Firefighter Logan Halliwell doesn’t have much time for romance. A relentless work-life-balance and an expensive divorce have sucked the festive cheer from his days. All he wants is to be a good dad. A fun dad. Especially at Christmas.

He doesn’t know how lonely he is until he meets Remy Collins, a gorgeous fire dancer at a sultry summer festival.

Their instant connection blows his mind, but their fleeting encounter is over before Logan can catch his breath. One kiss and they’re strangers again. That wicked brush of lips nothing but a dream.

Long months pass. Then fate brings them together again at the summit of Firefly Hill, and absence has only strengthened the current thrumming between them. The heat. The precious chance of true happiness they both so desperately need.

Only fear stands in their way.

And Logan’s dangerous job.

It takes a tough lesson and a dose of winter magic to learn that loving each other means Christmas all year round.

Christmas On Firefly Hill is an MM holiday romance, featuring a burly single dad firefighter, and a vagabond dancer/jewellery maker. Delivering a guaranteed HEA, all the Christmas feels, and a hefty dose of British snark.

https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/63067051-christmas-on-firefly-hill

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My Review: 4/5 Stars 

The first time Logan sees Remy it is like he is struck by lightning. He can feel everything shift and knows that something has changed. Especially after that kiss. But that's all it is. Months later, they cross paths again when Remy rents Logan's uncle's workshop on Firefly Hill. Perhaps fate is bringing them together once more. Remy hasn't forgotten Logan or the kiss their shared months earlier, but he also isn't the same Remy he was then. A lot has changed. An accident that hurt his body badly and he is struggling to make enough money to live off of. He considers it quite a gift when he gets a chance to rent out the workshop. But he never expects to see the man who captivated him months earlier or the dad he saw with his twin boys in the park a few days earlier to be Logan. Now they have a chance to see where their attraction leads in between Logan's firefighter schedule and parenting his boys and Remy keeping his business afloat. A super sweet story! The chemistry between Logan and Remy is great. A lovely holiday story filled with fun and romance! This was a great story to curl up with on a rainy December day (which is exactly what I did!).

I Love You Both So Much by J.E. Birk, Rachel Ember & Leslie McAdam

A Holiday M/M/M Romance

Everyone has secrets. I’ve kept some big ones from my two best friends, and I know they’ve got a few of their own. After all, Embry and Adam never told me why they stopped talking to each other the night we graduated college. For my part, I’ve never told them that I’m bi—or that I’ve been in love with both of them for years. I’m also definitely not telling them I’ve mismanaged my family’s tree farm so badly that it’s about to go out of business right before Christmas.

But when I crash off a ladder hanging up holiday lights and break my wrist, they come running like Santa’s elves. They’re both very grumpy about seeing each other again, but I can’t be sorry to finally have an excuse to get them in the same place. Wait until they find out we’re all sleeping in one bed…

At least their feud is put on hold when they discover what a mess I’ve made of my business. Soon the three of us are scrambling to pull off a Christmas miracle and save the farm. And maybe it’s the magic of the holidays, but a whole lot of feelings and long-buried truths are coming to the surface—and our friendship is starting to become something much bigger.

Will we survive the season? Or are all my dreams about to be crushed this Christmas?

ILYBSM is a sweet and steamy contemporary holiday m/m/m polyamorous romance about three former best friends. It stars Jeb, a sweetly oblivious farmer who’s the hottest mess to ever grow trees in Vermont; Embry, a mechanic who can fix any engine but not a relationship; and Adam, a graphic designer and organizational whiz who irons his sheets. It features truths that slip out thanks to homemade eggnog, a demon goat who looks fabulous in a Santa hat, and an unconventional happy ever after.

https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/63046140-ilybsm

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My Review: 5/5 Stars

What a fun story! You will immediately fall in love with Jeb, Adam, and Embry the second you open the book. Jeb is in love with his two best friends, not that he ever told either of them that. Or the fact that he is bisexual. But considering how Adam and Embry refuse to talk to one another since the day before graduation three years ago, the time to mention it hasn't really come up. That is until now. When Jeb accidentally falls off a ladder and breaks his arm, he may or may not have texted both his friends (thank you pain medication) about what happened. But he definitely doesn't expect for either to jump to his aid. Especially Adam who lives across the country in California. Now both have made it to Vermont and Jeb is determined to get them talking again and fix their friendship. And also learn the truth about the night of their big fight. Little does he know that Embry is also bisexual and Adam is gay and both are just as much in love with him as they are with one another. As they help Jeb manage his farm and even possibly save his business, truths will finally be revealed! And the start of what could be a beautiful relationship. This story was just so fun! The three of them are so different yet perfect for one another. And when you get flashbacks of their text group chat from their college years, you can't help but wonder how none of them knew they were into not only men but one another! They were clearly meant to be. But nothing is so simple and life together isn't exactly easy.You don't want to miss this fun holiday story and also by the end beg for more! There are definitely some other characters that need their own books too! These authors know how to write great stories and together? They are fantastic!

I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review. 

Ocean Pines Book 3: The Spring We Ignited by Victoria Denault

Ocean Pines Book 3

I married the wrong brother, but for the right reasons.

My life was a mess when I started working at Hawkins Lobster Shack. Declan Hawkins was a mess too, and he swore marrying would solve both our problems. He wasn’t wrong. And I wasn’t unhappy.

There was love. It was good… until it wasn’t.

Now my marriage is over and my husband left town, leaving me alone to face the confused and hurt faces of our friends and his family.

So when his brother Finn suggests he become my fake husband so we can take that vacation Mr. and Mrs. Hawkins won, I don’t say no. I need a break from the judging eyes of Ocean Pines.

Pretending Finn’s my husband is playing with fire because my long buried feelings for him are coming back to life.

And I still have secrets to keep. Secrets that aren’t mine to share. Secrets that, if revealed, could burn this small town, and any feelings Finn might have for me, to the ground.

https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/60380585-the-spring-we-ignited

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My Review: 4/5 Stars

It's been months since Nova's husband, Declan, has left and they are on their way to a divorce. While his family is both outraged and devastated that he left Nova and them, Nova is the only one who truly knows the real reason. When Nova married Declan, they were helping each other. And sure there was love for a bit but deep down both knew it wasn't the forever love. And though Nova is mad that Declan gave her no warning, she understands. Too bad his family doesn't. Especially Finn. Finn who was her crush and best friend before she married Declan, but she couldn't complicate his life and even dare tell him the secrets she kept. She would have tried but when Finn wasn't there, Declan was. But now everything has changed. And those feelings for Finn are making an appearance once more. But a relationship with her ex-brother-in-law? Sounds way too complicated. As for Finn, well, he's been in love with Nova the moment he met her. She was his best friend too and before anything had a chance at happening, suddenly she is married to his brother. So Finn has kept his heart and mouth shut for all these years. Never would be betray or hurt either of them. His feelings may not ever go away but as long as Nova was happy, he could live with that. But now Declan is gone, and soon they find themselves on a weekend getaway alone. Perhaps some secrets will start to be revealed. Loved this one! Totally complicated but getting to that ending everything was making sense and turning out right for all. And I'm really looking forward to the next book! But Finn and Nova were great. They are finally right where they want to be and everyone is getting their chance at happiness. Really liking this series and like I said I can't wait to get Declan's story next. 

 

Ocean Pines Book 2: The Winter We Collided by Victoria Denault

Ocean Pines Book 2

All it took was a blizzard and a pair of sky-blue eyes to break me.

I had one rule when I decided to rent out the ground level of my house – keep it professional. So I have no idea why I told the hospital to call my new tenant, Logan Hawkins, when I ended up unconscious in the snow. It was impossible to keep my distance from the brooding single dad after he came to my rescue.

My past is tragic with a capital T so I decide to keep it to myself for as long as I can. That way maybe Logan won’t run, like everyone else. I want his touch… his love. Not his sympathy.

But he’s been keeping secrets of his own. The more time we spend together the more I want to confess, and I want to know what has been turning those sky-blue eyes stormy when he thinks I’m not looking.

They say the truth will set you free, but in this case, it might shatter what’s left of my fragile heart.

The Winter We Collided, book 2 in the Ocean Pines series, is a sexy, single dad romance featuring a brooding, buff paramedic and the shy, secretive new girl in town. 

https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/58345825-the-winter-we-collided

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My Review: 4/5 Stars

5 years ago, Logan hit rock bottom. And when he did, his family was able to get him help and send him to rehab to deal with alcoholism. Now, he is better than he has been. He has been sober since then, has done whatever he can to be there for his kid, and has dedicated his career as a paramedic at the firehouse. Despite the ups, he still struggles with feeling guilty of that terrible day that changed his life. It not only harmed others but his family as well. His focus on his own happiness hasn't been a thing until he meets her. Chloe. Chloe runs into Logan when she is hired by Logan's sister, Terra, to create a website and app for their family business. In doing so, she soon finds herself with a tenant to live in the apartment attached to her home. Chloe has had a rough five years herself when she not only had a rough recovery from a car accident but lost her husband in that crash as well. So what is about Logan that makes her want to try and fall in love again? At first they keep their distance, but when an accident lands Chloe with a bad concussion, Logan is the one to help her through it. Both have their secrets and little do they know how close those secrets are to one another. Loved their story! But boy, was I on the edge of my seat wondering if what I thought happened, happened, and how would that play out for them. Really enjoying this series so far! Looking forward to the next one.