Dragon Clan Gathering Book 2: Winter at Stonefire by Jessie Donovan

Dragon Clan Gathering Book 2

Jane Hartley is determined to prevent any other orphaned dragon-shifter children from going through horrible experiences like Stonefire's newest clan member, Percy Wells. Along with Jane's mate, Kai Sutherland, she's determined to pitch her idea of clan fostering with all the clan leaders during the winter meeting on Stonefire. All of the Winter Solstice celebrations, Sid's doctor gatherings, and her own presentations she can handle, no problem. What she didn't expect was a little surprise of her own.

Join Stonefire in welcoming all the clan leaders for the winter gathering and read some updates from favorite past couples!

This is not a standalone story. It features characters from Reawakening the Dragon , Surrendering to the Dragon, Cured by the Dragon, The Dragon's Pursuit, The Dragon Guardian , and cameos from most of the past Stonefire Dragons couples and other clan leaders.

https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/148001109-winter-at-stonefire

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My Review: 5/5 Stars

I adored this story! This was such a fun one. I loved when we get a nice mix of characters in all the series coming together. We had a lot of surprises as well. The story has a big focus on Jane and Kai as Jane prepares to talk the leaders of different dragon clans to agree to take care of young dragon shifter children. Jane is passionate about the project, especially that she hasn't had a child. But things are about to change in many ways for Jane and Kai. We also get a meeting of the many doctors from the clans as well. And a surprising new pair, who I can't wait to get a story for. And another who I imagine will get a story as well. This is a fun short story that catches us up on what is currently going on with the clans and certain characters and you definitely don't want to miss it!

I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review. 

 

IOU Series Book 3: Oblivious by Leslie McAdam

 

IOU Book 3

My hot best friend has no idea what he’s doing to me.

He sends me naughty texts at the most inappropriate times. He lets me fall asleep on top of him when we watch movies. And his protective side comes out if I dance too close to anyone at our favorite club.

Correct me if I’m wrong, but those are things a boyfriend does. Except August isn’t my boyfriend, he’s my best friend, and those lines are drawn in permanent marker. The one time we tried to cross the boundary between friends and lovers, it failed so spectacularly that we never did it again. So … “friends” is good enough. That’s what I tell myself. Because at least I have him in my life. Without him, I’d be lost.

But after we’re dared to kiss, and that kiss reshapes reality, we agree to be friends who do things with each other. Nakey things.

That makes my life so much better. And so much worse. After all, August doesn’t want to settle down, and he never wants to get married. While I do.

Most importantly, no matter how our relationship changes, he can’t find out I’m desperately in love with him.

Oblivious is a sweet and steamy contemporary m/m romance about best friends who don’t know they’re already dating. Noah and August are always touching, finish each other’s sentences, and bristle whenever the other gets within six feet of a date, but they can’t see what’s crystal clear to everyone else. Oblivious features badly timed schmexy texts, a hot kiss that rocks two men’s universes, and (unofficially, but likely) the highest number of heartfelt marriage proposals in a romance novel ever.

https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/168373270-oblivious

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My Review: 4/5 Stars

Noah has been in love with his best friend August for a very long time. But he has never told him. Scared of losing his friendship because August is everything to him, he stays quiet. As for August, he always believed Noah didn’t feel anything more than friendship towards him. So he has locked down the idea of them never being more for a long time. They’re best friends and that is enough. But one kiss changes everything. It wakes up August and for the first time in a long time he wonders if they could be more. And for Noah, the kiss only showed what he knew all along. He loves August and always will. And something is about to give. However, their story is never as simple as that. Because even when they push their friendship to more there is still something missing between them. And both of them are juggling to figure out what it is. Both have their owns pasts and insecurities when it comes to love. But with the bond these two share, it is only a matter of time before the two of them can figure it out and find the happy ending they both so desperately want and deserve. Loved Noah and August! They are the epitome of best friends to lovers but oof, did they still have a long way to go. This story had such good twists with this trope and I loved that. These two are so funny and had such great chemistry. I couldn’t put the story down! Looking forward to reading more from this series!

IOU Series Book 1: Ambiguous by Leslie McAdam

 

IOU Book 1

Love is for other people, not for me.

At least that’s what I believed, until I met him .

Julian Hill.

The most famous rock star on the planet. A music god with untidy hair and the voice of an angel.

I’ll never be anything but out, and he has very good reasons to stay in the closet.

After all, every move he makes is dissected, critiqued, and posted on social media, so he just wants a little privacy.

I understand that. Truly.

But no one makes me feel the way he does, and I’m pretty sure he has feelings for me as well.

Which is inconvenient since his record label hired me to sue him.

I should’ve sorted things out before I kissed him.

Oops.

Ambiguous is a forbidden mm rock star romance about a fashion-forward singer who hates labels of all kinds (except for clothing), a dapper attorney who already has a (fake) boyfriend for a very good reason, and the possibility of love saving the day.

https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/60815657-ambiguous

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My Review: 4/5 Stars

I’m reading a bit out of order since I read book 2 a while back and realized a little too late that I didn’t read book 1. So I finally backtracked! This story follows Julian and Sam. Sam is a lawyer and has been tasked to encourage Julian to finish his album that he owes or there will be some legal consequences. Julian is a famous singer who is an actual sweetheart and loves what he does. And currently in a bit of a writing slump. That is, until he meets Sam. Sam who suddenly becomes his muse and the more they get to spend time together and know one another, the easier writing song lyrics seems to be. And for the first time, Julian actually finds someone he wants to be with and date. However, things are a bit complicated. They can’t date util Julian finishes his album or Sam will face some conflicts at work since he is in charge of the case with Julian. And Sam also has been in a fake relationship with his friend for both of their families political ties. Though Sam has no feelings for his friend (and vice versa), he still has to find a way for them to “break up” without hurting both of their families. But each day spent with one another, Sam is more determined to fight for who he loves. This story was a lot of fun! Sam and Julian are so cute and had so many fun moments. I’ll probably have to take a look at book two again to refresh my memory then I can move on to the latest book in this series!

Unlucky 13 Book 3: Unfortunate by Nicole Dykes

 

Unlucky 13 Book 3

Welcome to the Black Diamond Resort and Spa . . .

I’m in exile in this luxurious refuge after a scandal, which shouldn’t be a scandal at all.

I’m Elijah Hunt, former child actor, now beloved action star.

When a picture of me in a compromising position is posted online, for the entire world to see, my agent sent me here to escape the limelight.

But here, it’s different from my crazy, loud, glitzy life. It’s quiet and peaceful. No one seems impressed with my celebrity.

And no one is less impressed than the sexy, aloof member of the cleaning crew. He couldn’t care less who I am or why I’m here.

He’s convinced I’m one of the fortunate ones—and I suppose I am. I’ve had it all—big houses, the best care, money, fame, and shallow adoration . . . but I’ve never been loved.

I’ve never known if people like me for who I am underneath it all or just for my money and fame.

And to me . . . that seems awfully unfortunate.

https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/127126345-unfortunate

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My Review: 5/5 Stars

Elijah has been an actor since he was a child. Well known and beloved, he has kept himself out of any situation that could cause a scandal. And in doing so, he kept a part of himself locked up tight. But when he is outed without consent, everyone jumps on a scandal that really shouldn’t be a scandal. To help him get some peace and time away to decide what he wants to do, his agents sends him Black Diamond Resort and Spa. And that’s where he meets Atlas. Though they don’t exactly get off on the right footing, they can’t deny the attraction they have for one another. And when they actually take the time to talk to one another and have a real conversation? They’ll find themselves falling for one another faster than either are prepared for. Atlas loves his job at the resort. He has a good group of friends, a good job, and a beautiful place to live. But when he meets Elijah and gets to know him? He realizes exactly what he has been missing. I loved their story! Atlas and Elijah were such a great couple. When they are together, they can be themselves. And though they know that Elijah’s time is limited on the island, it doesn’t stop them from spending time together. Really great story. My favorite of the series so far! 

The Loyal Boys Book 3: Lost Boy by Charli Meadows

 

The Loyal Boys Book 3

Fallon

Being alone is nothing new. I’ve been abandoned by everyone. Now, I have absolutely no one. I might even prefer it that way. All I really need is a guitar and my thoughts.

Just shy of my eighteenth birthday, I’m forced to move across the country to live with my uncle in California. He’s the head basketball coach at Acadia Lake Prep, the new private academy I’m attending. Ryder Cruz is his star player.

He makes me question things about myself and what I want. Things I’ve never once considered. The oversized and enthusiastic jock is always around, insisting I smile and laugh with him. But it won’t work. It can’t. The painful memories and regret I carry are too strong. I’m not sure I’ll ever feel again.

Ryder

Basketball is great. So are my friends. Dad. My little sister Sofie. I’m team captain, and I’m taking us to State.

It’s easy to forget that nothing is ever as it seems. I fight my demons with smiles and awkward jokes, but things are starting to pile up. Pranks between my guys and the rival public school, issues with my mother, and a secret I can’t tell anyone. A truth that holds me in its grasp. I can’t risk the team or my college acceptance—my future . Can’t risk my dream.

I’m gay. And no one can know.

It wasn’t as hard to keep this close to my chest until Fallon Rivers showed up with his big, sad eyes and bright blue hair. I’m not sure I can continue hiding who I am. I need this boy to smile. To talk to me. I need to spark some life back into his soul.

He doesn’t realize my dad and his uncle are partners, but he’ll find out soon enough. Sleepovers happen almost every weekend. And now that he’s here and staying for good, I guess he’ll just have to get used to my presence. Because I’m determined to make him feel again and maybe even free myself along the way.

Lost Boy is a 90,000-word friends-to-lovers gay romance. It is book three in The Loyal Boys Series, a collection of standalone contemporary M/M romances. You can expect opposites attract, forced proximity, hurt/comfort, steamy first times, and a supportive found family. This novel is intended for 18+ readers and contains explicit scenes, mild violence, language, and bullying from outside sources. See Author’s Note for a full list of Content Warnings.

https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/142561768-lost-boy

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My Review: 5/5 Stars

Loving this series! This series has really grabbed me and this latest one is just another great addition! Fallon has been numb since his dad died. He lost not only his dad but his mom went off the deep end doing drugs, dating awful men, and it finally comes crashing down on her when she gets thrown in jail. When Fallon’s uncle Joel, his dad’s brother, comes to pick him up and bring him back to California with him, Fallon doesn’t expect much. He figures it will only be a matter of time before Joel doesn’t want him either. And with the numbness settling in more and more, he doesn’t seem to care. But Joel won’t give up on his nephew and he isn’t alone in that quest. Ryder is the son of Joel’s boyfriend. Ryder and his sister have been part of Joel’s family for the last few years and he knows that will never change. Their family is tight. When he first meets Fallon, he can see the sadness in him right away and he swears right there that he will make Fallon smile. What Ryder doesn’t expect is to fall for Fallon so fast. Not when he told himself he wouldn’t come out until his plans to play basketball in college is safe. He never wanted to risk his future not until Fallon. And for Fallon, being around Ryder makes him feel safe. Something he never had. And bit by bit, Ryder is squashing the numbness that has overtaken Fallon and for the first time in a long time, Fallon feels something. He is slowly waking up and learning what it is to be loved. Their story was just so sweet. They were this perfect example of opposites attract and balancing one another is really nice ways. I couldn’t put this story down! Definitely a favorite from this series.

Accidental Love Book 1: The Husband Hoax by Saxon James

 

Accidental Love Book 1

Christian

Being invited to my cousin’s wedding really shouldn’t be such a big deal except, oh yeah, I haven't seen my family for a decade. 

My parents turned their backs on me and I’ve done everything since to become successful and show them what they lost. Only, it’s kinda hard to be a success when you’re a walking trainwreck. 

So I’m going to fake it. Hire a guy with an online presence so impressive they’ll be desperate to welcome me back into the elitist fold, and roll into the wedding with the kind of confidence I’ve never felt a day in my life. 

The plan’s a knockout. 

Until my fake date cancels minutes before the ceremony. 

Émile

One letter from my dearly departed grandfather, and suddenly I’m on a husband hunt. 

He’s reworked his entire will so I’m set to inherit far more than I'm entitled to, and all because he’s asked me to use that money for “good”. 

In order to get that inheritance, though, there’s one stipulation: marriage. 

Even with his request, I’m tempted to stick to my original plan of getting as far from my wretched family as possible, and letting them fight it out. 

But then I run into a tall drink of scattered mess outside of a wedding who’s in desperate need of a date, and the pieces click into place. 

I help him, he helps me. 

Marriage, money, then go our separate ways.

Easy. 

Now all I have to do is stop myself from actually falling for the guy.

https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/63212931-the-husband-hoax

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My Review: 5/5 Stars

Christian is the clumsiest and sweetest guy ever. So it’s no wonder when Emile crosses Christian’s path that it’s truly love at first sight. (Not that anyone will admit that just yet.) He really stood no chance to falling for Christian. And Christian learned quickly that Emile is perhaps the most honest and real and genuine person he has ever met. Christian hasn’t had it easy when his parents threw him out when he was 17 for being gay. Years later, he is invited to his cousin’s wedding and he wants to be there for her but also show his parents that he is put together (sorta) and deserves respect. But when his fake date falls ills, he is contemplating leaving. That is until Emile finds him. Emile was paying his respects at his grandfather’s wake. A man he genuinely cared for unliked the rest of his family (except his sister). And when he sees Christian he is struck by this sweet guy and when he hears his story, he immediately offers to help. And help he does. For every klutzy move Christian unfortunately makes, Emile is there to smooth it over. It’s adorable. And their chemistry is no natural, you would think the two of them have been together always. A crazy day leads to a crazy night. And then later a crazier plan. When Emile tells Christian about his inheritance and how he wants to do his grandfather proud by putting the money toward something that matters, Christian can’t help but want to support him. Especially after Emile rescued him. But to get his inheritance, Emile has to marry. And these two crazy guys decide to get engaged. As they jump through hoops with crazy family members and their shenanigans, they fall for one another a little more each day. And the lines blur between what is real and what is not. A lot stands in the way of a happy ending for them both, but together they’ll figure it out. I really loved this story! And I’m mad at myself for not picking it up sooner! Also took me until the end to realize one of the characters I just read in another of Saxon’s books. Everything truly does connect! But this story was just so fun. I couldn’t stop laughing and poor Christian just has the worst luck. But Emile is just always such a good sport. And instead of running in the opposite direction, it only brings him closer to Christian. Great chemistry and just an all around fun story! I’m looking forward to when the next book comes out!

Vancouver Orcas Book 2: Game Changer by Amy Aislin

 

Vancouver Orcas Book 2

It’s Blair Brawsiski’s ride or die year. After a decade in the AHL, if he doesn’t get called up to the NHL this season, it’s time to hang up his skates and focus on other things. But between a second job and family priorities, his attention isn’t where it should be, and his dreams of making it to the big leagues are dwindling by the day.

Hiring a personal assistant to help out with day-to-day stuff? Probably the smartest move Blair’s made in a while.

But when that PA turns out to be an assertive baker who’s exactly Blair’s type? Blair can’t help but wish those dexterous hands would knead something other than pastry dough. Namely, him.

Charlie Shore needs extra income. Desperately. With his expenses about to go up, it’s find a second job or get evicted. Getting hired as Blair’s PA is perfect: flexible hours, decent wages, and a scorching hot professional hockey player who’s willing to let him use his gorgeous kitchen for his baked goods.

Too bad that hockey player is exactly Charlie’s type. Too bad Charlie knows better than to date his new boss…

https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/123249526-game-changer

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My Review: 5/5 Stars

I was trying what to read when an ARC of this book popped up in my email! I was very excited to get my hands on it. And it turns out, I was so excited that I couldn’t put it down! This story was a lot of fun and Blair and Charlie are just so cute together. I was looking forward to getting their story after finding out they were next. To say Blair is busy is an understatement. Not only does he play for the AHL Vancouver Orcas, he also owns his own business with graphic design. And a family who relies on him for every little thing. When he isn’t babysitting or picking up his sister’s child, he is helping his parents at their deli. It’s a lot to juggle on top of hockey games and practices. So much so that his coach tells him to hire an assistant and gives him his cousin’s number. Charlie is a baker. And he hopes to one day be able to do custom orders and start his own business. In the meantime, he’ll keep his job working the kitchen for the NHL team in Vancouver and work his butt off to pay off his debt. And now he will be working for Blair where he mostly just has to cook for him. Neither expected the connection and sparks that fly between them when they meet. And suddenly the idea of being boss and employee sounds like a terrible idea. Or is it? It’ll only be a matter of time before these two give in to the feelings that are starting to build the more and more they get to know one another. Such a fun story! I adored Blair and Charlie. Both have so much going on and when they get together, they realize just how much they are doing and want to take a step back for the first time. And insecurities slowly drift away as they learn to trust and love one another. Really fun story and like I said, I couldn’t put it down! Definitely looking forward to the next book! 

I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.

Gifted Clans Book 3: The Last Fallen Realm by Graci Kim

 

Gifted Clans Book 3

Best-selling author Rick Riordan presents the thrilling conclusion to Graci Kim's best-selling Gifted Clans trilogy.

Riley Oh wasn’t born into her family. Instead, as she recently discovered, she tumbled down to the earth many years ago as the last fallen star. Riley Oh also wasn’t born to be a witch. Like, at all—even her status as a divine celestial being comes with zilch in the magical powers department. And Riley Oh definitely wasn’t born to be a leader. But now the entire magical community thinks she and her soul-twin, Dahl, are meant to lead the world into the Age of the Final Eclipse (or whatever it is that the Haetae keeps saying they’re “destined” to do). Greeeat. 

But ever since Riley killed the Cave Bear Goddess, she’s been a bit pre-occupied with one thing: waiting for the goddess’s sisters to get their revenge. And it looks like her wait is finally over—because as witches from around the world prepare for war, it seems as though the goddesses are preparing for something much worse. Something that will lure Riley and her friends deep into the realm of the gods. Into a world of humongous, talking moon bunnies; life-or-death mini-golf competitions; and…magical gummy candies? 

And in order to save the world, Riley must do the one thing she was born to do: believe in herself.

https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/62874126-the-last-fallen-realm

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My Review: 4/5 Stars

In this epic conclusion, Riley will have to fulfill her destiny to save the world. But it won’t be easy. Riley and her friends and family have been preparing for months for the inevitable war between the clans and the goddesses. And the time has finally come. The walls between the realms have been ripped and they are slowly merging together leaving destruction in its wake. Riley and her friends will have to band together to fight each new challenge that comes their way and unleash her true potential alongside her soul brother, Dahl. But it will take everything they both have. And the end result will be nothing like she ever imagined. A really great conclusion to this series! This book was once again a lot of fun and funny and filled with adventure. It’s been a fun journey with Riley and I’m sad to see it end!

Mohegan U Hockey Book 1: Cracks in the Ice by Ryan Taylor & Joshua Harwood

 

Mohegan U Hockey Book 1

How can they trust love not to hurt them again?

Benny

I’ll never fall in love again.

I had my chance, and I was the happiest man you can imagine. One day, after a horrible accident, it all came to an end. The only thing left was playing hockey, but it wasn’t enough, and I became my own worst enemy.

When my old school offered me a lifeline, I took it. As a coach, I could at least be miserable in a different place.

But when I got to Mohegan University, there he was—bright and warm, like sunshine. I’d lived in the dark for so long my soul was frozen, but he thawed me out. I started feeling things again, wanting things. For the first time since the accident and dark times that followed, I wondered if there was a chance. I’d never thought about being with another man, but so what? Could I be lucky enough to find love twice?

Cole

I was done. No. More. Men.

I’d always made the worst possible dating choices, and one guy after another took advantage of me. Invariably, I thought I was falling in love. Once I told them, they’d show their true colors and run.

Worn out and unable to stand another heartbreak, I swore off love. I almost had my master’s degree, and playing the piano was a much safer route to happiness.

No sooner had I made up my mind than there he was—hot as a forest fire, yet very sad. When I found out why, I understood. Someday, he’d get married again, but there was no reason I shouldn’t be a friend.

Then he kissed me, and everything turned on a dime. I was getting pulled in again. I needed to protect myself, but the harder I tried, the more I believed in him. Was I making another horrible mistake? Would this time be different, or was I setting myself up for the biggest letdown of all?

Cracks in the Ice is a sports romance featuring hurt/comfort, sensitive men, unexpected connections, first times, an age gap, faculty/student romance, explosive chemistry, hard-earned happiness, and a very satisfying HEA.

Content warnings for partner deaths, traumatic accidents, and alcohol abuse. While these issues happened in the past, they may still be difficult for some.

https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/61367885-cracks-in-the-ice

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My Review: 3/5 Stars

Benny hasn’t had it easy for a while. He lost his wife in a tragic accident that led him to a downward spiral and becoming an alcoholic. But with some good friends, he was able to get the help he needs and is making a recovery. Now over a year later from getting help, he recently hurt his ankle and hasn’t been able to play on his NHL team. But he gets an opportunity of a lifetime when he is offered to coach at his college D1 school. He is tasked with turning the team around. What he never expects is to fall in love again. And certainly with his new roommate who also happens to be a man. Cole has had enough. Every guy he falls for ends up being the wrong one. He is used and treated terrible and he just can’t take it anymore. So when Benny comes into his life, he is determined to stay away. However, he can’t help but be brought into Benny’s orbit. Benny is genuinely a nice guy and respects and treats Cole great, even when they are just starting to become friends. And when things turn into more? Cole isn’t sure if he can believe this new turn of events. A lot will stand in their way of a future together, but if anyone deserves a happy ending, it’s these two.

Unlucky 13 Book 2: Wounded by Ashley James

 

Unlucky 13 Book 2

Welcome to Black Diamond Resort and Spa…

Where the rich and famous go to disappear. Some to relax, some to get sober.

For me… It’s my last shot, my final chance at redemption.

I’m hotheaded. Reckless. Self-Destructive.

I don’t want to be here, but not doing so means losing everything I’ve worked my whole life for.

It means losing my band. The only family and the only constant I’ve ever known.

They say I have a problem. That I need help.

I say it’s just part of fame.

The drugs help numb the pain. Keep the demons away.

I’m doing my best to keep my head down and bide my time until I can go home. Then he comes and makes himself at home at my breakfast table…

Rowan Davies.

Son of Hollywood’s most famous movie producer and my new pain in the ass.

He’s nauseatingly cheerful. Buoyant. A presence refusing to be ignored.

And he’s set his sights on me.

He wants to fix me. Make me feel.

He wants me to let him in. Love him.

But he’s here against his will too.

We’re both broken. Wounded where no one else can see.

Is a bond derived from lies and vices really a bond at all, or only a setup for yet another epic failure?

https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/126995726-wounded

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My Review: 4/5 Stars

Rowan and Caspian have hit the tipping points in their lives where those in their lives have had enough. For Rowan, his parents are sick of the partying. And for Caspian, the life of a rock star and acting like one (the drinking and drugs specifically) is too much. Especially with the latest outcome. His band manager and his bandmates need him to get better. The solution? Black Diamond. Where the rich and elite go for rehab and a time out. Rowan doesn’t mind so much once he gets there while Caspian is the opposite. And Caspian is even more put out when Rowan is constantly trying to connect and be his friend. Their friendship is unlikely as they are complete opposites and dealing with their own personal issues. Yet, when the bad days aren’t too bad, there is most definitely a connection between the two of them. However, acting on it and working out if it could be something more is a challenge for the both of them. These two have been through a lot and expect the worst from others. It will take a lot for them to move past their issues if they want a chance to even let the other in. But once they do? They may just find exactly what they have been looking for all along. 

Up in Flames by Eden Finley & Saxon James

SANDEN

When it’s your job as groomsman to tell the groom his wedding isn’t happening, the smartest thing to do is get it over and done with and then tell the guests to leave.

Yeah, well, I never said I was smart.

I might … accidentally, maybe on purpose, suggest to Remy that the best form of revenge is to have a party anyway. I mean, he’s already got catering, a DJ, and guests, so what better time to throw a petty party?

My loser high school friend never deserved him anyway. If I’d had the chance, I would have locked Remy down years ago.

Only, when the party leads to a drunken kiss, going on their honeymoon, and sharing their marital bed, I have to say, I’m not entirely sad that their wedding went up in flames.

https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/124945464-up-in-flames

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My Review: 5/5 Stars

Sanden has had feelings for Remy since the moment they met. But unfortunately before he could ask him out, his friend (but not really a friend) gets there first. Three years later, it's Remy's wedding day and he is left at the altar by Eman and Sanden is the one to tell him. And somehow that leads to having a petty party where Remy can get drown his sorrows. They even after end up finding themselves going on the honeymoon together so Sanden can be there for Remy. Remy has had mixed feelings bout his so called fiancé for a while now and after being left at the altar he begins to think his gut was right. But things are so complicated. Like Sanden. The man he once had a crush on but thought never liked him after he started dating Eman (along with some nifty lies from Eman as well). And the more Remy dwells on his new ex, the more red flags are going up. Sanden becomes a great support to Remy and things for them get complicated when feelings for one another come to light. However, their love story will be anything but easy. The two of them have a lot of things they have to deal with emotionally. And they know the dangers of starting anything too fast could hurt their future. A future that the two of them want more and more each day. I really loved this story! But oof, the angst and hurt and comfort that these two have to go through is quite a doozy. However, you can't help but cheer for the two of them to work their way back to one another once they can start to heal and solve these unresolved issues of their pasts. But! There is definitely plenty of romance between them and lots of laughs from them and other favorite characters throughout. I couldn't put the book down! This is one you don't wanna miss!

I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review. 

Lionheart Academy Book 3: Regretting You by T. Ashleigh

Lionherat Academy Book 3

Tyler-

Some days I wish I’d never met Gregory Baldwin. Then there are days when I feel like I’ll die if he’s away for too long.

It’s like I’m addicted to him. Addicted to the attention he gives me and what he does to me in secret. He has lips made for sin and a body I can’t keep my hands off of, but mostly, I know he has a heart. That’s what keeps me coming back.

Now he’s cruel, malicious, possessive… nothing like the boy I once knew. And yet, deep down, I know that guy is still there under this bad boy exterior. He has to be, or everything we’ve been through is pointless.

Being with him feels like dying and surviving all at once. It’s wild, manic, and soul-crushing, but it’s us. He’s all I’ve ever had and the only thing I’ll ever want.

Because even when I hate him…

I love him ten times harder.

Greg-

I’m broken beyond repair, too fucked up to be saved. My mind fights demons daily, while the shattered organ in my chest only causes me pain.

I wish I could just end it all. Say goodbye to this miserable existence.

Only, to leave this life would mean leaving him, and that’s not something I can do.

Once I made a promise to a boy that I plan on keeping. The years may have dragged us apart, and I know he hates me now, but that’s okay. I don’t blame him; I hate myself, too.

Regardless of the animosity, one thing remains the same: Tyler.

He’s the constant in a haze of self-destruction. The one who somehow, after everything, is still there for me, no matter how badly I mess up.

I don’t deserve him. I never did, but I’ll never let him go either.

He is mine, and I am his.

*Betting You is the third book in The Lionheart Academy series. It's a full length, new adult high school novel with material that may be difficult for some readers. It’s recommended for 18+ due to language and sexual situations. Please read trigger warnings before proceeding.*

https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/63361912-regretting-you

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My Review: 5/5 Stars

We finally get Greg and Tyler's story! I've been looking forward to this one. We've seen so much negativity from Greg, I really couldn't wait to see what was going on in his head and see why he was the way he was. And ugh. Be ready for the hurt. This story is pretty heartbreaking for Greg and Tyler as they find their way back to one another. Greg and Tyler became friends when they were kids and Greg's mom was like a second mother to Tyler when his own family was anything but. Both were happy and unknowing to them, slowly falling in love. But everything changed the mom Greg's mother unexpectedly died. Greg was devastated and hurt and scared and he did the one thing he could think of to avoid feeling like this ever again. Pushing away the one other person he loved more than anything: Tyler. But pushing him away was the last thing he should have done because the pain of his loss has only grown worse over the next three years. And things are about to crack. Tyler never forgave Greg for pushing him away and hurting him. He can't understand how he can love and hate someone the way he does Greg. He doesn't want to open himself up to him again just to get hurt, yet he can't help himself. These two hit a point and next thing they know, they are hooking up in secret through their senior year. But there are still so many unresolved issues between the two of them. Things that need to be said. And it's only a matter of time until they'll have no choice. Loved this final story in this series! All the feels. Your heart will ache for the two of them and knowing how much pain they both are in. I just wanted to shake the two of them and demand they just tell the other everything they are feeling. Their story is heartbreakingly beautiful and so worth the wait as they figure themselves out and break down and build themselves back up. Such a beautiful series and I'm so sad to see it end!

I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.

 

Love, Theoretically by Ali Hazelwood

The many lives of theoretical physicist Elsie Hannaway have finally caught up with her. By day, she’s an adjunct professor, toiling away at grading labs and teaching thermodynamics in the hopes of landing tenure. By other day, Elsie makes up for her non-existent paycheck by offering her services as a fake girlfriend, tapping into her expertly honed people pleasing skills to embody whichever version of herself the client needs.

Honestly, it’s a pretty sweet gig—until her carefully constructed Elsie-verse comes crashing down. Because Jack Smith, the annoyingly attractive and broody older brother of her favorite client, turns out to be the cold-hearted experimental physicist who ruined her mentor’s career and undermined the reputation of theorists everywhere. And that same Jack who now sits on the hiring committee at MIT, right between Elsie and her dream job.

Elsie is prepared for an all-out war of scholarly sabotage but…those long, penetrating looks? Not having to be anything other than her true self when she’s with him? Will falling into an experimentalist’s orbit finally tempt her to put her most guarded theories on love into practice?

https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/63098427-love-theoretically

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My Review: 5/5 Stars

Ali Hazelwood has easily become one of my favorite authors. She writes fantastic romances with strong leads of female scientists. Humor that is brilliant and quirky with each character. And guys you can't help but wish existed. I loved her books and this latest one is just another great addition to her works. This story follows Elsie. A theoretical physicist in the search of getting a job where she can research and stop teaching (she really does not like being an adjunct professor). She especially needs a better job to keep her financially afloat, especially when she has a medical condition. And when she becomes a finalist for position she really wants, she just has to pass the last few interviews and tests. But things get complicated. Her other job has finally proven that the world is indeed that small. So when she isn't teaching and researching, she gets paid to be someone's girlfriend. Something Elsie excels at because during the years she has mastered reading people and shaping herself to be the person they need her to be. And when her latest client's brother is on the committee that will determine her future, things reach way beyond complicated. Jack has been suspicious of Elsie since day one along with something else that Elsie isn't quite sure of. But now all he sees is a liar and poor Elsie can't explain. Not yet. Not without giving away his brother's secrets. However, things don't stay this way for too long. And it is truthfully just the beginning of their story. There is more history, a bit of a rivalry between then, some enemies-to-lovers, and just so many other pieces of their story. And I loved every moment of it. Elsie and Jack were just so great together! Jack is the one person Elsie can't read and it forces to be herself for the first time ever. And she isn't sure what to make of that, but she is learning. And you can just tell how much Jack adores Elsie, even when she can't see it at first. Absolutely adored this story and devoured it in a day. You won't want to miss this!