Unlucky 13 Book 9: Splintered by Isabel Lucero

 

Unlucky 13 Book 9

Welcome to Black Diamond Resort and Spa —the best place to go when all you want to do is disappear and not have anyone expect anything of you.

Overwhelmed with work and feeling like I’m being pulled in multiple directions at once, I crave the serenity a private island holds for me. As a very recognizable figure in the adult film industry, I’m used to shelling out parts of myself for the sake of others. Everyone wants more pictures, videos, and more of my time and energy. Though I’ve created an empire that has made me lots of money in a business I enjoy, I still desire a break. Sandy beaches, fruity drinks, and turquoise waters are all I expected from this trip. I definitely didn’t anticipate running into my high school crush—the jock that never once looked at me the way I wanted him to. Jarrod Bivens is now the star goalie of the San Jose Bobcats, and the person half the world is blaming for his team losing in the playoffs. Clearly here for his own escape, our chance encounter ignites an instant friendship. With each day on the island, I realize my crush is far from gone, but Jarrod’s known for only dating Hollywood starlets, so he’s obviously straight. Maybe those lingering gazes and small touches are all in my head. But one day, something interesting arises between us—a moment I couldn’t have prepared myself for. Our mounting tension finally snaps, but little did I know it was only the beginning of a rollercoaster ride of emotions. Our chemistry is undeniable, but the real world awaits, and life off the island is bound to be much different. How can two people from completely different worlds ever make it work?

https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/127024165-splintered

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My Review: 5/5 Stars

This book became another top favorite of mine from this series. I couldn’t put it down! It was just such a fun one. You can’t help but love Devin and Jarrod the moment they are on the page. It was funny and sweet and romantic and so many other things. So we have Devin and Jarrod who both decide that a vacation is just what they need. And what better place to go than Black Diamond? For Devin, he needs a break from work. He’s running a successful business in adult entertainment and with so many things in the works, he felt himself getting pulled in different directions. It was time for a much needed vacation to regroup and figure out what he really wants next. For Jarrod, he is a NHL goalie who feels responsible for losing the playoffs. Time to escape and mope for a bit. What neither of these guys expect is to run into each other. They knew one another in high school but haven’t spoken since then. However, when they cross paths it’s like no time has passed. They pick up an easy friendship that only builds and starts to lead to feelings. For Devin, he is gay and out and has known exactly who he is. And he’ll admit that he may have had a crush on Jarrod back in the day. One that is starting to form again. For Jarrod, it’s a bit more complicated. He’s never been attracted to a man before and when feelings for Devin start to form, he is more than a bit confused. However, he knows one thing. How he feels about Devin is something he has never felt for anyone before. And that alone makes the jump to be with Devin all worth it. But nothing will be easy for these two once vacation ends. They’ll have to figure out what they want in their future and if it is one where the two of them can be together. A beautiful friends to lovers story mixed in with a tiny bit of angst, longing, distance, everything that makes this story worth reading. Definitely a favorite of mine from the series and one I just couldn’t put down!

Saga of the Unfated Book 1: A Fate Inked in Blood by Danielle L. Jensen

 

Saga of the Unfated Book 1

A shield maiden blessed by the gods battles to unite a nation under a power-hungry king—while also fighting her growing desire for his fiery son—in this Norse-inspired fantasy romance from the bestselling author of The Bridge Kingdom series.

Bound in an unwanted marriage, Freya spends her days gutting fish, but dreams of becoming a warrior. And of putting an axe in her boorish husband’s back.

Freya's dreams abruptly become reality when her husband betrays her to the region's jarl, landing her in a fight to the death against his son, Bjorn. To survive, Freya is forced to reveal her deepest secret: She possesses a drop of a goddess's blood, which makes her a shield maiden with magic capable of repelling any attack. It was foretold such a magic would unite the fractured nation of Skaland beneath the one who controls the shield maiden’s fate.

Believing he's destined to rule Skaland as king, the fanatical jarl binds Freya with a blood oath and orders Bjorn to protect her from their enemies. Desperate to prove her strength, Freya must train to fight and learn to control her magic, all while facing perilous tests set by the gods. The greatest test of all, however, may be resisting her forbidden attraction to Bjorn. If Freya succumbs to her lust for the charming and fierce warrior, she risks not only her own destiny but the fate of all the people she swore to protect.

https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/61063372-a-fate-inked-in-blood

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My Review: 5/5 Stars

Yet another fantasy filled world by Danielle L. Jensen and it promises to be really great one! Filled with adventure, romance, and the Norse gods, she has created another intriguing world with lots of myths and gods in play. The story follows Freya, a woman in an unwanted and awful marriage, who dreams of being a warrior and using her magic to help her people. However, no one except her mother and brother know of her magic and she was told by her father to never reveal it. However, fate has other plans. When he husband betrays her, she is forced to reveal her magic. And is taken in possession by a jarl in the hopes of being king of all of Skaland. Freya finds herself moving from one prison to another, yet there are a few benefits to this new cage. First, the ability to fight and use her magic. Now she can train to be the warrior she always wanted to. And Bjorn. The son of this jarl and the one she can’t keep her eyes off of. There is a tension and connection between the two of them but no possible way for them to be together. No matter how much deep their feelings are and how much they want to. But there is also too much at stake. When  Freya’s magic is revealed to all, everyone is looking to capture her or kill her. Because her magic is the one foretold to unite Skaland under one rule by whoever controls her. So much going on in this story and I couldn’t put it down! And that cliffhanger of an ending! Will definitely be looking forward to book two. But this story had everything I love in this author’s writing. The battles and mythologies were great, the awesome heroine, adventures, and the romance between Freya and Bjorn is everything. Can’t wait for book two!

I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.

Heroes At Home Book 3: Battle to Surrender by Willow Dixon

 

Heroes At Home Book 3

I’ve been hiding who I am for so long I’ve forgotten what it’s like to be myself. - Hunter

Two years ago, I retired from the army and started my life as a civilian. I have a job I enjoy, friends who are my family, and more secrets than I can count. I might not be a soldier anymore, but I can’t seem to let the past go. It haunts me, and has made it impossible for me to truly be who I am.

Then Shane is hired by my company and we're teamed up to work on a project. He’s young, handsome, and he has a knack for making me forget who I’m supposed to be. I’ve never let anyone see my true desires, but Shane makes me want to let go and finally let someone in. To let him take care of me the way I’ve always craved.

As much as I want to fight it, I can’t say no when he shows me who’s boss.

Battle to Surrender is an opposites attract, grumpy/sunshine, hurt/comfort story featuring a retired soldier suffering from PTSD, his sweet but firm younger co-worker, a found family, and all the feels.

https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/60644833-battle-to-surrender

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My Review: 4/5 Stars

A really great conclusion to this series! Hunter is the quietest and oldest of his found family. Though he may be physically bigger and more intimidating, he has a sweet and kind hearted demeanor. He’s shy and suffers a bit from anxiety and PTSD. And when it comes to a partner, he likes to be the one taken care of and is a bit more dismissive. But finding someone who understands him has always been a challenge and he’s closed himself off a bit. That is until he meets Shane. When Hunter’s job decides to have a last bit fundraiser, Hunter ends up with the assignment. But lucky for him they hire a coordinator and that is Shane. Shane who feels the immediate attraction to Hunter and vice versa. Who is looking for someone to also accept him for who he is. They end up a perfect match for one another. And the more time they spend together, the more they fall for one another and get the safety and comfort they’ve been craving. Their relationship was so sweet! They truly were perfect for one another. Really enjoyed this series and these set of characters!

Heroes At Home Book 2: Battle for the Top by Willow Dixon

 

Heroes At Home Book 2

I know who I am and what I want, but Jordan makes me question everything. - Luke

My life is as predictable as it comes. I go to work at my security job, I hang out with my friends, and I spend my free time alone. I don’t want or need anyone or anything else.

Then I’m assigned a night contract with Jordan, who’s my complete opposite, and my world is flipped upside down.

Jordan is friendly, outgoing, and nothing like the men I’m usually attracted to. He’s also big, confident, and can turn me to putty with just his words. I don’t know who I am when I’m with him, and while he makes me feel better than anyone ever has, I’m not sure I’m ready to let someone else take control.

I like Jordan, and I trust him, but is that enough for me to give in and let him take care of me?

***Battle for the Top is an opposites attract, grumpy/sunshine, hurt/comfort story featuring a jaded former solider turned security guard, his friendly but guarded co-worker, a found family, and accidental feels. It is Book 2 in the Heroes at Home series, but can be read as a standalone.

https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/60323716-battle-for-the-top

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My Review: 4/5 Stars

Luke has his routine. Something he needed after life in the military and when his alcohol addiction was at its worst. Now, he is in a much better place when it comes to his addiction, but he lonelier than he cares to admit. Sure, he has his best friends, but more often than that, he is own his own. With the occasional meaningless hook up here and there. But then he meets Jordan on his next security assignment, opposite in every way to Luke. While Luke is quiet and shy, Jordan is outgoing and bright and very talkative. And despite the fact that both claim their type is not one another, neither can help the small crushes that starts building for one another. And then when a dangerous incident occurs outside of work to them, it pushes them to act on something that has building for a while now. Now, the two are falling hard for one another as they spend all their time together, not just hooking but getting to know one another. They find comfort and a safety with one another that they haven’t felt ever with someone else. But will they have the courage to admit their feelings once their work contract ends? I really liked this story! Luke and Jordan are so so sweet together. They fit so well. They are opposites in some ways but very similar in others. Such a sweet story and I can’t wait for the next one!

Heroes at Home Book 1: Straight Battle by Willow Dixon

 

Heroes at Home Book 1

"I’ve always been interested in women, so why can’t I stop thinking about Tyler?" - Gage

Buying a house was supposed to be a good investment. Too bad I bit off more than I can chew. Between my job at the bank and my utter lack of home improvement skills, I’m in way over my head. Then a friend suggests I hire a handyman. Enter Tyler.

Tyler is down on his luck after a recent divorce, and we strike a deal that he fixes my house while I give him room and board as part of his pay. He’s the perfect roommate, amazing at his job, and he quickly becomes one of my closest friends. But there’s something there, something I’ve never felt for another man before.

Tyler and I both thought we were straight, but that doesn’t stop the attraction that grows between us. Is it possible I found the person who could finally show me what love is?

***Straight Battle is double bi-awakening, opposites attract, hurt/comfort story featuring a former soldier with trust issues, a divorced handyman looking for a connection, a found family, and accidental feels. It is Book 1 in the Heroes at Home series, but can be read as a standalone.

https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/60323710-straight-battle

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My Review: 4/5 Stars

Gage is in need of some desperate help when it comes to fixing up his house. He bought a fixer upper and he may be regretting just a bit when he realizes just how hard and expensive it is for him to fix. Lucky for him, a friend puts him in touch with Tyler. A jack of all trades and in need of a job. They make a deal. Tyler will live at Gage’s home rent free and in return he will work on the house and get paid a bit of a lower price than he is used to. After a rough divorce that forced him to live with his parents, he will take that deal no problem. What neither expected was the easy friendship they build as they get to one another or the attraction that seems to be sparking between them. Both of them have been straight for their entire lives. Looking and being attracted to other guys has never crossed either of their minds. Yet, when it comes to one another, it’s a whole different game. And it’s only a matter of time until they find their courage to explore the connection that is sparking between them. These two were so sweet! And such a great pair. They truly were meant for one another. Their relationship was built on this solid friendship that grew with each day and in the end they truly just found their person. A really fun start to this series and I am looking forward to the rest!

Hot Off the Ice Book 6: Bad Boys by AE Wasp

 

Hot Off the Ice Book 6

Behave or be benched. Noah Braterman's hotheaded attitude may cost him his NHL career before it truly begins. After alienating his current teammates, coaches, fans, and the press, Noah gets a second chance to prove his worth when he’s traded to the Seattle Thunder with one ultimatum—lose the attitude or lose his spot on the team. Enter Adam Labatt, former NHL player, and Noah’s last, best Vegas fling. After his own rocky past in the show, Adam turned himself around and is now being asked by his old mentor to help Noah learn to play well with others. Living in isolation on his private island and still guilt-ridden over the way his marriage ended, how can Adam possibly mentor anyone? But the man he shared an unexpectedly intimate passionate night with is worth fighting for, even if he has to fight Noah himself. Forced into close quarters, the walls they’ve erected to protect themselves crumble as they share their hopes, dreams, and fears. Fate brought them together. Now it’s up to them to find the courage to face the world unafraid. If they do, they just might create a future better than they could have imagined that night in Vegas under the desert stars.

https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/195947186-bad-boys

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My Review: 5/5 Stars

It was so fun being back in this world! Turns out it was one I really missed and this book became a favorite for me from this series. For one night, Noah and Adam find themselves rescuing the other while in Vegas. Some flirting later and drive out in the desert under the stars, and a night neither will forget, they don’t expect to meet again. Though both can’t deny they wish they would. But after they part ways, turns out they will be seeing one another again. Just not in the way they expect. Noah is a professional hockey player with a bit of an attitude problem. He is quick to be defensive and finds the best defense is a great offense. Doesn’t help when his father is in his head and telling him how terrible he is. Or the fact that he trusts no one and that has led to zero friends and family he can’t go to. And now he has been traded to Seattle where he will be given one chance to get it right. He’ll have to spend a few weeks with a mentor who will teach him to play with others and hopefully make him realize what his issues are and be willing to fix them to better himself. He just never expects that mentor to be Adam. The guy he can’t stop thinking about. Adam has retired from hockey and has been isolating himself for the last few years. Literally. He lives on an island and barely talks to anyone. But when his old coach calls for help, he can’t say no. And when he is shocked to see it is Noah, he is tempted to say no. But then he remembers the man he met in Vegas and he can’t help but want to see him again and help Noah be the man he knows he can be. It’ll be one complicated few weeks but both are determined to get through them. And maybe once all is said and done, they’ll even find a way to be together. If they can heal their old hurts at least. I really adored this story! Adam and Noah were great together. They both have been through a lot but together they really gave themselves a chance to heal in an environment where they could support one another. Their chemistry was great and witty and sweet. And they just balanced one another so well. This was really a favorite of mine from the series and we had so many cameos from others in the series! And with the promise of at least another two more books in this series, I seriously cannot wait!

Unlucky 13 Book 10: Scandal by T. Ashleigh

 

Unlucky 13 Book 10

Welcome to Black Diamond Resort and Spa…

I come from a long line of con artists and crooks. 

In a family where money and power outweigh integrity, there’s only been one person I could always count on. My best friend, my other half, my twin; until he betrayed me. 

Thanks to his lies, both my family and the media are breathing down my neck, giving me no choice but to ‘seek help’ at some fancy rehab resort.

Whatever. 

I’ll do my time, go through the motions with this stupid five-step program, then wash my hands of this place and my past.

But why not have a good time while I’m here?

Specifically, with the mysterious man I feel a strong, undeniable pull toward.

At first, it’s just some fun—a way to decompress after everything I’ve been through. Only we grow closer, and I catch feelings, despite thinking I’d never trust anyone again.

Big mistake.

It turns out, the person I fell for is not who I thought he was. And I don’t know what’s worse—my shattered heart or the scandal that caused it.

https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/127421549-scandal

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My Review: 5/5 Stars

Definitely my favorite of this series so far! I’m also just a big fan of T. Ashleigh. In this latest book of the series, we follow Austin and Beck. Austin is quiet, a bit awkward, and does whatever he can to stay out of the spotlight. His dad is not a fan of his but has no problem using him when he sees fit. And Austin’s twin brother was his best friend… until he betrayed Austin. Though they are identical twins, Austin has birthmarks on his body that he is super self conscious about and it doesn’t help when others, including his own family, have negative comments about it. So when a picture turns up on the internet of him (scars included) of doing some shady things, how can anyone believe it is anyone but him? Aaron set him up and when no one believes him, he gets shipped to Black Diamond to be out of the way. Beck is a reporter and is sent to Black Diamond undercover to find a story on the island and Austin. Though Black Diamond protects its guests with a crazy amount of NDAs, Beck’s boss has hopes they can think of something. But the moment Beck meets Austin, he knows he is in trouble. He is nothing like he expected and the more the spend time together and fall for one another, the harder it is to come clean about why he is on the island to begin with. But maybe there is hope for these two yet! I really adored this story. I love T. Ashleigh’s writing style and the banter and chemistry between Austin and Beck was really sweet. You know things won’t be easy once the truth is revealed but you can’t help but hope for these two to find their way back to one another! Really loved this story!

I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.

Arctic Titans of Northwood U Book 1: Crossing Blades by Hayden Hall

 

Arctic Titans of Northwood U Book 1

This year is my last chance to take the Titans to victory. I cost us the cup last year, but I’m not making the same mistake again. And I’m determined to get drafted by the end of this season.

The success I anticipate is built on three years of razor-sharp focus and hard-earned respect. Not to mention how much of my personal life I sacrificed for hockey. The Titans trust me to lead them and I won’t betray that. Nothing could possibly go wrong.

Until the former love of my life and current arch nemesis, Cameron Martinez, skates back into my life. His very presence throws me off balance. His intense gaze and aggressive, dominant, and possessive streaks feel like a lasso pulling me toward him.

It only takes so many shared showers and locker room encounters before I’m too weak to continue resisting this pull.

But we both know there is no future for us. Our ambitions have always left a trail of ruin and heartbreak in their wake. Why should this time be any different?

Except I can’t think straight when he’s around. And every private moment we share makes me forget why I’m even here in the first place.

Crossing Blades is the first book in Hayden Hall’s Arctic Titans of Northwood U series of gay, college hockey romance novels. Expect fiery encounters on and off the ice, bickering enemies with a single, steamy way to vent, a second chance at greatness and love, and the emotional rollercoaster of self-discovery, acceptance, and growth into adulthood. Crossing Blades can be read as a standalone.

https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/195683820-crossing-blades

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My Review: 4/5 Stars

Riley has spent the last three years focused on hockey and burying his broken heart after Cam walked out of his life. He never really opened himself up again but he figured better to protect himself and a career in hockey is all he wants and needs. But then Cam transfers to his team. And suddenly all the feelings, good and bad, come rushing back. Working together is impossible when the anger is there and Cam is even more of jerk than when he left. But it’s only a matter of time until the tension between them snaps. Cam knew leaving Riley would be hard but he also knew he needed to run away. He had to get out of their town and away from his parents. He needed something better. But it didn’t take him long to realize that leaving Riley was like leaving a piece of himself behind. And it was too late to fix it. Or is there? Cam may be angry as well, but when Riley and his futures are on the line if they don’t learn to get along then it’s time to switch things up. Hooking up again may not be the smartest but neither can resist. Even if it means ignoring the future for a bit longer. Really liked this story! There was so much between these two to resolve and you can’t help but root for them to figure it out. Definitely looking forward to more books in this series!

I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.

The Duke Brothers Book 1: The Moment That Everything Changed by Lani Blake

 

Duke Brothers Book 1

He needed a date for his cousin’s wedding before his family forced one on him.

No strings. One night.

Sawyer Duke hadn’t planned on it being her.

Birdie McAllister was Lyntacky’s Little Miss Sunshine. Unnaturally happy and living her best life, or so he’d always believed.

All that changed when he overheard a single conversation.

Now he knows her secret, and he’s making her pay for his silence by being his plus-one.

The only issue Sawyer could see with the arrangement was that she no longer just annoyed him. Now he wanted her too.

Of all the people she knew to find out her secret, it had to be him. Sawyer Duke, Lyntacky’s grumpiest man. Yes, they have a monthly poll for that!

Birdie was just barely keeping her head above water, working three jobs and trying to keep her family home. She didn’t need a Duke poking his nose into her business.

She’d go to the wedding to ensure he kept her secret, but then she was avoiding him.

But a night surrounded by loved up people loosened Sawyer’s tongue, and she realized her secrets were nothing compared to his.

Clearly, there was more under that rough exterior than he wanted people to see.

Lyntacky was like most small towns. It had its interfering locals and families who could trace their roots back hundreds of years. Where Lyntacky stood out from the rest was their love of Square Dancing and the Duke brothers. Both were trouble. Neither had plans for leaving.

https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/131989542-the-moment-that-changed-everything?from_search=true&from_srp=true&qid=z4v8h7TENQ&rank=1

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My Review: 5/5 Stars

Lani Blake is the best when it comes to small town romances. You just want to live in one of these towns. Lake Howling and Ryker Falls, and now we have Lyntacky! And believe it or not, it is the quirkest of the towns. A place where if music plays in town tha means you have to stop what you are doing and line dance. Or else get thrown in the town jail for the day. Just ask Sawyer Duke. We’ve met the Dukes in the last Ryker Falls book and now we have a whole new cast of characters to discover. This story starts with Sawyer Duke and Birdie McAllister. The grumpy guy and the woman full of sunshine. You can’t describe them any better than that. Just ask every person in town. These two cross paths when Duke stumbles upon a very un-Birdie like job and he starts to see that he (and probably a lot of others) don’t know Birdie as well as they think. One thing leads to another and he is heling her (or blackmailing her) into coming with him to his cousin’s wedding to get his family off his back. That’s just the beginning of the story of these two when they realize their attraction to one another. But both carry some pretty heavy baggage and it will take a bit of time before either are ready to admit their feelings. As always, these stories are filled with hilarious moments and characters, romance, and a bit of action and plot twists to keep you on your toes! I’m looking forward to many more great stories from this town!

I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.

Dark Olympus Book 5: Cruel Seduction by Katee Robert

 

Dark Olympus Book 5

He was my enemy. My lover. My husband. 

And the one man I swore by all Olympus I would destroy. 

Aphrodite has never flinched at getting her perfectly manicured hands dirty, and she's not about to start now—even if that means marrying Olympus's enemy number one, the new Hephaestus. She has a wicked plan to keep her deadly new husband off-balance, seducing the one person he seems to care about most in this world: Pandora, a woman as beautiful as she is sweet. 

Two can play the seduction game, however, and Hephaestus is all too happy to put his new wife in her place. Her ex, Adonis, seems like he'll do the trick. It doesn't hurt that he's gorgeous in the way of fallen angels, either. 

The only problem with using seduction as a weapon? Hearts are all too quick to get involved. With Hephaestus and Aphrodite trading venomous strikes that feel a whole lot like foreplay, lines become blurred and emotions entangled. But a broken heart may be the least of their worries. With unrest in Olympus reaching new heights, these bedroom games may have deadly consequences for themselves, their city, and everyone they've come to love.

https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/63065383-cruel-seduction

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My Review: 5/5 Stars

With each new book, the stakes are higher and higher in this series. The last book left us with a new Hephaestus, formerly known as Theseus as he followed his foster father’s plan to become part of the Thirteen. Meanwhile, the rest of the Thirteen decided they needed to a way to keep him in check. This leads to Eris, also known as Aphrodite, to step up. She’ll marry the enemy and find a way to bring him down. Though things are never quite that easy. This story has a poly relationship and it gets a little complicated. Eris broke up with Adonis. Though their relationship was never perfect, the two still love one another. But she had to break his heart to marry Theseus. Theseus’s best friend is Pandora. They have been best friends since they were children who endured terrible things before and after Minos took them in. Theseus will do anything for Pandora, but the two of them have never been more than friends. What may start as an idea to use those closest to them against one another, the idea sours for both of them pretty quick. Theseus finds himself falling for Adonis in a way he never imagined, while also falling for his new wife. Adonis is starting to fall for Theseus but his feelings for Eris are still present as well, despite the heart break she had caused him. And Eris can’t deny to the pull she feels toward Pandora and vice versa. And Eris still has feelings for Adonis while also developing feelings for Theseus the more the two begin to understand one another. 

The four of them together is different than anyone can understand, but it somehow has the power to work for them. If they can live long enough to seize that. There is a lot at stake. First to get past the hurts and the lines that make them enemies and then there is the fact that there are those threatening to assassinate Eris and Theseus at every turn. However, these things may be the push they need to finally break free of the chains that have held them down for so long. I really liked this story! I had no idea how their relationship was going to work when I first picked it up. Complicated was an understatement. But their relationship took this new form that was super intriguing to see and made sense for them all. You can’t help but cheer for all of them. Even for Theseus and Pandora who are considered the enemy at first. We get more insight to Minos’s plans while catching up with a few others. This series just keeps getting more and more interesting and I can’t wait for the next one!

Chronicles of Nick: Shadows of Fire Book 1: Sabotage by Sherrilyn Kenyon

 

CoN Shadows of Fire Book 1

The world of the Dark-Hunters is unlike anything you’ve ever seen before. It’s dark. It’s gritty. It’s dangerous…

And it’s a whole lot of unexpected action and snarky comebacks.

My name is Cyprian Malachai and I should have never been born. I know it. My mother knows it and most of all, my father, the Ambrose Malachai is more than aware of it. Every creature under the sun is out to end me.

But I don’t go down easy. Anyone who’s ever fought a Malachai knows that fact.

My father thinks that he’s heard the last of me . . .

He hasn’t. Our war is only an interlude. It’s about to heat up and I have a massive grudge to settle. One that is far from over . . .

https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/150729191-sabotage

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My Review: 5/5 Stars

So I have to start off and say I wished I re-read all the previous books in this series. It’s definitely been a while since the last book! However, despite that, it was pretty easy to fall back into that world. And it helped we got some recaps here and there. I’ve always loved the Dark-Hunter world and the Nick Chronicles have been really great and interesting. Sabotage is the beginning of the next phase in this series. And a lot is bout to go down. Kody returns and she is better prepared. She just has to get Nick and the rest of the gang. Once she does, it’s off to the future they go. They need to understand what has gone wrong and what clues they missed. So first, it’s time to talk to Ambrose, Nick’s older self. Then they are off to farther into the future where they’ll have to find their allies once more. Cyprian, Nick’s son who is also a Malachai, had picked them off one by one to win these battles. And Nick has had enough. Together, they are stronger. And it will take everything they have to finally win this war and save their futures. Really loved this! It’s definitely fun returning to this world. I’ve really missed it. And though all the time traveling gets confusing, I’m equally starving for those glimpses of the future of those we have seen in the Dark-Hunter series. So much left to fight in this war and I can’t wait to see how it will all play out.

I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.

IOU Book 4: Curious by Leslie McAdam

 

IOU Book 4

I’m desperately attracted to my husband.

Which wouldn’t be a problem, except he’s straight.

What happened is, my longtime crush/hero got badly injured saving me from my evil ex-boyfriend. When I found out he (my hero, not my ex) didn’t have health insurance, I did the logical I proposed. To my surprise, he said yes.

I knew that Camden wasn’t interested in me like that . This deal was always meant to be temporary—just until he healed and could get his own insurance and I found a place to stay, since I’m not moving back in with my ex. No feelings involved.

Except Cam kissed me at our wedding ceremony, and ever since, we can’t seem to stop kissing. He says he’s curious what sex with a man would be like, but I don’t want to be another straight guy’s experiment.

Still, Cam is so kind and beautiful, with his dark eyes and tousled curls shoved into a backward baseball cap. His patience makes me want to throw out all my carefully crafted rules. And don’t get me started on how his first instinct is to protect me …

But I’m scared if I open my heart, I’m going to get hurt. Again.

Can I risk telling Cam how I feel before our deal ends? Or should I let him go and lose the best (fake) relationship I’ve ever had?

Curious is a stand-alone contemporary M/M romance novel with a marriage of convenience and bisexual awakening. It features Shelby, a receptionist who’s never met a vision board he didn’t like; Camden, an internet-famous contractor; and a hasty wedding for medical insurance reasons. Happy ever after guaranteed.

https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/123508431-curious

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My Review: 5/5 Stars

Shelby has never had it easy when it comes to love. It seems every guy he picks, turns out to be a terrible decision. And the latest one takes the cake when he gets physical with Shelby. As Shelby tries to make his escape, his knight in shining armor arrives. Cam has never really had a chance to get to know Shelby but he recognizes him since Shelby works with his siblings. And when he sees the shape Shelby is in as he runs out a house near where he was working, his protective instincts kick in. He defends Shelby and in doing so, he actually breaks his ankle. They head back to Cam’s place and as they share their latest problems, Cam in a bit of a money bind due to past stuff and doesn’t have health insurance, and Shelby no longer having a place to live, Shelby comes up with a pretty crazy idea. He asks Cam to marry him to get him the health insurance he needs to go to the doctor for his ankle and the treatments that will follow in order to thank him. And Cam tells him to stay with him as long as he needs. What the two never expected was to fall for one another in the process. Cam has been straight his whole life, but know sexuality is fluid. His brother and sister are examples he grew up with. But no man has ever interested Cam until Shelby. He doesn’t know what that may mean for him personally, but he is willing to find out for Shelby. Shelby meanwhile is waiting for the moment Cam realizes that he doesn’t want Shelby. The past has only taught him that no one wants him and they will leave. It will take a lot for these two to overcome their fears but if they can, their fake marriage may just be real. I adored these two. They were so cute from the moment they crossed paths. Shelby has so much hurt inside him and Cam is the perfect one to protect him and show him that Shelby is loved by so many. Such a fun and great story!  

I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.

Leighton U Book 2: Caught Stealing by CE Ricci

 

Leighton U Book 2

It's not stealing if he's meant to be mine. 

Let me tell you how Holden Sykes operates.

As the campus playboy and one-and-done king, he doesn’t do strings.

Or repeats.

Or names, for that matter.

So when he tries making my best friend the next notch on his bedpost, I react poorly.

Some would call it jealousy or an unrequited crush,

but friends protect each other from making mistakes.

The same ones I’ve already made.

Which is why driving Holden away seems like my only option.

Too bad he’s not giving up without a fight.

Each prank leads to another

until he turns this into a game far more precarious than intended.

One filled with stolen moments and heated glances,

drawing me into his orbit.

But the undeniable attraction simmering between us

leaves me caught in the crosshairs of an impossible decision.

Loyalty...or love.

*Caught Stealing is the second in a five book standalone college sports romance series featuring a road-tripping rubber ducky, two guys fighting for the upper hand, and enough cock-blocking shenanigans to make your cheeks flush. Not suitable for anyone under 18 years of age*

https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/68055856-caught-stealing

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My Review: 5/5 Stars

Holden isn’t afraid of one night stands and meaningless hook ups. And when he sets his eyes on his teammate, Kason, he figures if they both find one another attractive then what is the harm? Well, that’s not the case according to Kason’s best friend, Phoenix. Phoenix immediately comes between them with a protective streak and an attitude that leaves Holden baffled…and a bit intrigued as they find themselves constantly in a verbal spar. And the more he tries to prove to Phoenix that he can have a relationship and be more than just a playboy, the more he realizes that he may not want Kason but Phoenix. Too bad he might be missing some crucial information… Phoenix can’t forget the night months ago where him and Holden hooked up. He doesn’t do one night stands but maybe he could have let it go if not for how Holden treated him after. No recognition, no sign that anything between them happened. And he’ll be damned if he let’s his best friend get that kind of treatment. So he’ll protect Kason. But as Phoenix and Holden engage in their battle of pranks and verbal spars, Phoenix can’t help but feel the attraction and chemistry between them once more. And what happens when he learns the truth about that night? The night that Holden doesn’t actually remember? Things get complicated as they two come to terms with the pull they feel for one another but know that others can get hurt if they give in. Loved Holden and Phoenix! Their chemistry was off the charts and even when they were annoying the crap out of one another and the tensions were always high. They just fit. And it was only a matter of time before they would give in. But you’ll feel for them as they come to terms with their feelings and what that could mean for those around them and for what it is like to put your heart on the line. Really great story. Loving this series so far! Definitely can’t wait for more. 

CU Hockey Novella: See You in Boston by Eden Finley & Saxon James

 

CU Hockey Novella

All I want is to be dicked down, why is that so much to ask? When graduation night hits and I still haven’t crossed bottoming off my bucket list, I’ll do anything to make it happen. Including hitting on the bashful, dimpled cutie from the CU Hockey team. He’s not queer, but he is curious. One last college experience with someone we never have to see again. And when he leaves me with the parting words “maybe I’ll see you in Boston”, I don’t think either of us realized that would happen so soon …

https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/128440917-see-you-in-boston

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My Review: 5/5 Stars

Just when I thought I read everything in this series, I learn I missed this novella! So glad I found it. This was a sweet novella about two characters we’ve seen in the series, but never had a chance to meet util now. Tyson i looking for a hook up and sets his sight on hockey player, Rossi. It’s graduation night, so what’s the harm? Though Rossi has never hooked up with a guy, he’s not against it either. With a lot of friends who are queer he knows that you can fall for anyone. And there is something about Tyson he can’t help but be drawn to. A quick hook up and they part ways… just to find out a few weeks later that they will be working together when they both walk into the same finance firm. Rossi is there thanks to his dad before he heads to grad school and Tyson is hoping the internship will lead to a full time job. The connection between them is still there and it’s easy for them to see where it goes. Really cute novella! Tyson has this no filter personality that just makes you laugh. And Rossi is a sweetheart who you can see adores Tyson and won’t let him go. Definitely don’t want to miss this one from this series!

Awakening (book 1): Fall of Ruin and Wrath by Jennifer L. Armentrout

 

Awakening Book 1

SHE LIVES BY HER INTUITION. HE FEEDS ON HER PLEASURE.

Long ago, the world was destroyed by gods. Only nine cities were spared. Separated by vast wilderness teeming with monsters and unimaginable dangers, each city is now ruled by a guardian―royalty who feed on mortal pleasure.

Born with an intuition that never fails, Calista knows her talents are of great value to the power-hungry of the world, so she lives hidden as a courtesan of the Baron of Archwood. In exchange for his protection, she grants him information.

When her intuition leads her to save a traveling prince in dire trouble, the voice inside her blazes with warning―and promise. Today he’ll bring her joy. One day he'll be her doom.

When the Baron takes an interest in the traveling prince and the prince takes an interest in Calista, she becomes the prince’s temporary companion. But the city simmers with rebellion, and with knights and monsters at her city gates and a hungry prince in her bed, intuition may not be enough to keep her safe.

Calista must follow her intuition to safety or follow her heart to her downfall.

https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/65214365-fall-of-ruin-and-wrath

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My Review: 5/5 Stars

Jennifer L. Armentrout has done it again. She has given us another fantasy romance series to obsess about. I loved this story! And I seriously cannot wait for more. This is a whole new world to learn and love. And it’s only just the beginning. Calista (aka Lis) has a special talent. She has an intuition that keeps her on the right track, can read thoughts if she can focus on someone, and can even see the future with the right touch or question. It’s kept her as safe as possible in a world with powerful beings. She and her best friend are orphans and when they finally found a safe place in the home of a Baron, they do what they can to keep their place. Even if that means becoming a sort of spy or more at times for the Baron by using Lis’s gifts. And one day she finds herself following her gift right to a prince in the need of desperate help. A very powerful prince. And one she comes to realize she saw as a child and knew she would meet again. There is a lot going on in this world filled with powerful beings (who reminded me of Fae in a way) and rebellions. So much is happening in this story with the world building. You gotta be patient and put pieces together bit by bit. It was one thing I really loved and I cannot wait to see how it builds as we learn more and more. The characters were fantastic in this story as well. JLA always has some strong heroine and hero to lead the story and Lis and Thorn are exactly that. A compelling couple whose chemistry is off the charts. Get ready for a world of magic, fantasy, steamy romance, and so much more. Twists at every turn and a bit of a cliffhanger ending (as per usual) that will demand you wanting more. Can’t wait to see where Lis and Thorn take us next!

I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.