Percy Jackson and the Olympians Book 6: The Chalice of the Gods by Rick Riordan

 

Percy Jackson and the Olympians Book 6

The original heroes from The Lightning Thief are reunited for their biggest challenge yet: getting Percy to college when the gods are standing in his way.

After saving the world multiple times, Percy Jackson is hoping to have a normal senior year. Unfortunately, the gods aren’t quite done with him. Percy will have to fulfill three quests in order to get the necessary three letters of recommendation from Mount Olympus for college. 

The first quest is to help Zeus’s cup-bearer retrieve his goblet before it falls into the wrong hands. Can Percy, Grover, and Annabeth find it in time? 

Readers new to Percy Jackson and fans who have been awaiting this reunion for more than a decade will delight equally in this latest hilarious take on Greek mythology.

https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/63035432-the-chalice-of-the-gods

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My Review: 5/5 Stars

There is nothing like a Rick Riordan book. Especially when Percy Jackson is the telling the story. Was so glad to hear there would be more stories with Percy as the main character. And this was extra special because not only was it Percy but Annabeth and Grover as well. The trio was back together and it’s been quite a while since it was just the three of them on a quest. Their latest adventure takes them to senior year of high school. They just battled the giants and things are pretty calm after saving the world yet again. Now Percy has one goal. Finish high school and make it to New Rome University with Annabeth when they graduate. Too bad for him, getting into demigod college is a little more trickier. Percy has been tasked to complete three quests in order to get recommendation letters to college. He can’t ask for letters or quests, the gods have to come to him. All before the winter solstice. And this book follows his first quest from the god, Ganymede. He is the official cup bearer of the gods and let’s just say if he doesn’t his chalice back (the chalice that has the power to grant immortality) then Zeus won’t exactly be happy. Come along with Percy, Annabeth, and Grover on their latest quest that will have you laughing and remembering the good old days. I loved this story. It was so much fun being back in this world and getting the original crew. And it seems we will be getting more! 3 letters, 3 books is my guess. Especially since we have confirmation on book 2. I really can’t wait! This story has everything this world promises. The great characters, the humor, and all the Greek myth you may or may not know with their own personal twist. So happy to have more stories with Percy, Annabeth, and Grover once again!

Darby U Hockey Boys Book 2: Blurred Lines by Andi Jaxon

 

Darby U Hockey Boys Book 2

I’ve been in love with my best friend for years. 

The problem?

He thinks I’m straight.

And now that I share a dorm with him, his insistent need to cuddle -and lack of clothes- are blurring the careful lines I’ve drawn.

I'm struggling to keep my defenses up.

I love him but I’m afraid. 

Afraid I’m not enough to make him stay.

Afraid he’ll rip my heart out.

Afraid he won’t love me back.

But I see a side of him no one else does.

In the security of our room, he lets his mask fall. 

Lets me hold him. 

Something lurks in the dark recesses of his mind that keeps him from going all in. 

He’s just as hesitant about this as I am, but I don’t understand why.

Can I convince him to let me love him the way he deserves…

or will he take my heart and run away with it?

https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/122753206-blurred-lines

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My Review: 5/5 Stars

I’ve definitely been waiting to read Paul and Brendon’s story since we met them in Hidden Scars. What I didn’t expect is how much these two have been through. Their stories are rough and they are finding their way even so long after their traumas. But that doesn’t really go away, does it? However, they have each other. And even when they are unsure at times, it doesn’t matter. The love and bond between them is stronger than anything. So this story starts near the end of Hidden Scars, after getting a prologue to show who these guys were and what they’ve been through. Paul has no doubt been in love with Brendon for a long time. But doing anything about it has been a totally different thing. He can’t help but wonder if Brendon feels the same for him. They have been always best friends and though they probably acting more like boyfriends than anything else, they haven’t crossed that line. Until now. Brendon has a lot of insecurities. His biggest one is that those he love will leave him because of who he is. Though he feels deep down Paul will never do that, he can’t help but question it. He also knows his feelings for Paul go beyond best friends, but up until now, he always thought Paul was straight. Now as they two finally cross the lines of friends, they are about to go on quite the wild ride as they navigate their new relationship. So much goes down in this story! And I refuse to spoil! You can’t help but love Paul and Brendon. There are challenges they face every day but you know that no matter what happens, they will still be a unit. They will still be partners and neither are willing to let go of the other. I loved getting their point of views to see who they were outside of Jeremy and Preston’s story. If you loved the last book, you will for sure love this one as well!

I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.

Hockey Guys Book 2: I’m Your Guy by Sarina Bowen

 

Hockey Guys Book 2

TOMMASO

The furniture district is my personal hell. I don’t know my ass from an ottoman. But when a hot designer comes to my rescue, I realize my problems are bigger than the house I’m trying to furnish.

A scorching kiss over fabric samples makes me question all my choices. But is it too late to change my entire life to get more of them?

CARTER

I need this gig, but my cocky new client leaves out a couple crucial details:

He doesn’t mention that he's a famous hockey player. And he doesn’t own up to the way he’s always trying to undress me with his dark, broody eyes.

The man throws out more mixed signals than a broken traffic light. I've never been more sexually frustrated in my entire life. I need to back away before I do something stupid, like lose my heart.

Oops. Too late.

https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/195019453-i-m-your-guy

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My Review: 5/5 Stars

I adored this story! You can’t help but love Tommaso and Carter the moment they are on the page. Tommaso is need of some help. He has an empty house that is in desperate need of furniture and literally anything that makes it livable. All in the time for the holidays when his sick mom is visiting. And lucky for him he passes with Carter. A genius when it come to interior design who is need of some good luck. Carter’s ex, boyfriend and business partner, has screwed him over bad. He has almost no money to his name and is about to be kicked out of his apartment. That is until a growly hockey player asks for his help. Not that Carter realizes who Tommaso is at first. But Tommaso will help Carter get his life back in order and in return Carter will get Tommaso’s house ready. What neither expect is the attraction and connection that sparks between them. Carter hasn’t been afraid to be himself which is the opposite of Tommaso. Poor guy breaks your heart when you learn about what he has been through since he was a kid. Being himself has never been something he could do simply do and be comfortable with. Even around those who are closest to him. But the more he falls for Carter the more he realizes that maybe he doesn’t have to be afraid anymore. And that things are changing. Is it easy? No. But with the right support, it could be. I just loved these two. Their chemistry and banter was just so good. I couldn’t put their story down. They take their time as they get to know one another and you can see their relationship build from strangers to friends to more. You definitely don’t wanna miss this story!

I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.

Miami Piranhas Book 0.5: Playing Dirty by Beth Bolden

 

Miami Piranhas Book 0.5

All Wade Lewis wants during rookie preseason camp is to play great football and to make it to the final fifty three man roster.

He absolutely does not want Tristan Nicholson.

His complete and total opposite.

His teammate.

His competition.

And his roommate.

During the day, Tristan unexpectedly proves to be helpful on and off the field, but at night, when the lights go out, Tristan also becomes the only man he can’t resist.

First he’s a friend, then astonishingly, he becomes a lover.

And then he becomes the last thing Wade ever expected: everything.

Previously published in the Your Book Boyfriend’s Boyfriend giveaway, this version has only been lightly edited and the continuity errors fixed. 

https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/75478294-playing-dirty

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My Review: 5/5 Stars

In this prequel novella of this series, Tristan heads to rookie preseason football camp in the hopes that by the end not only would he prove he belongs on the field but that he deserves his spot on the NFL team the Miami Piranhas. What he never expects is to fall for his roommate, Wade. Or for Wade to fall for him back. Wade hasn’t really told anyone that he is bisexual. There hasn’t been anyone who has crossed his path that made him want to explore that side of him. That is until he meets Tristan. Tristan who is seems like this confident out and proud man who is a bit of an influencer on social media and yet in reality is down to earth and so sweet. Their connection is undeniable from day one. And as they get to know one another, there is no question that these two have something and maybe a future together. But first, to get through camp and make it to the team. Really loved these two! Such a sweet match and they brought out the best in one another. They also were one another’s best supporters as they worked harder each day to achieve their dreams. Definitely looking forward to the rest of this series and seeing these two pop up more.

Charleston Condors Book 2: The Game by Beth Bolden

 

Charleston Condors Book 2

Micah Rose is ready for a clean slate. He might’ve messed up his rookie year with the Miami Piranhas, but being traded to the Condors is the best way to put all that behind him.

The Condors are rebuilding, too. New owner. New coach. New players. New rules.

But one rule hasn’t changed: don’t marry your ex-best friend in Vegas.

Beckett West isn't looking forward to seeing Micah again. Back in college, they shared not only a ride-or-die friendship, but a ton of sexual tension they never acted on.

That was before Micah pushed him away.

Still, Beck’s never forgotten their last drunken night together. Not only did they finally confess their feelings, they both promised if the day ever came when they played on the same team again, they wouldn't waste the chance to be together.

But Beck didn’t expect that day to ever be this day.

He certainly didn’t expect to wake up in bed with Micah’s ring on his finger.

Or that he’d never want to take it off.

But it turns out the only man for him is the one man he could never forget. The one man he’s always wanted to make his.

https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/166303765-the-game

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My Review: 5/5 Stars

Beck and Micah have unresolved issues and some feelings. In college they were best friends. You couldn’t separate the two on and off the football field. But the night they were drafted in the NFL became both the best night and the worst. Micah pushed Beck away and hasn’t spoken to him since. Until now. When Micah is traded to the Condors, he is determined to apologize to Becky. To explain what happened. It won’t be easy, but he knows he can’t be without Beck. Not anymore. It’s so clear how strong the bond is between these two. Even after their time apart. And once they talk about the past and become friends again, well it doesn’t take long for them to take the next step that was always meant to be when it came to the two of them. Though neither really thought that next step was eloping in Vegas. However, once they wake up the next day and remember what they did the night before, they both realize that neither would change a thing. They were always meant to be. Now they just have to figure out what comes next and how they can continue to move forward and keep one another. I loved these two!! They were just so sweet and you could just tell that these two were always meant for one another and it was just a matter of time until they let themselves have it. They may have jumped to marriage without the start of an actual relationship but it just works for them. No wasting time. Both have been through a lot. And they just knew what they wanted and where they would end up. 

I actually realized when I started this series that it was just the latest in this world, so I missed what happens before this point in the timeline. And I think in these previous books we’ll see a different Micah and I imagine how far he has come based on what was revealed in this story. I’m really loving this world so far and I’m looking forward to rewinding back on that timeline to see how we’ve reached this point so far and get the stories of characters I’ve seen pop up. And I’m definitely looking forward to the next book in this series that has yet to come out! 

Charleston Condors Book 1: The Star by Beth Bolden

 

Charleston Condors Book 1

Tight end Landry Banks knows the score when he signs with the Charleston Condors in a rebuilding year.

New owner. New coach. New players. New rules.

But one rule hasn’t Don’t hook up with your best friend’s little brother.

Rookie quarterback Riley Flynn knows what it takes to make it in the NFL. He’s in Charleston to prove himself—to the world and to his teammates, but mostly to his older brother, who’s never believed he could be a star.

The last thing he expects is for his brother’s best friend Landry to welcome him with open arms and an offer to become roommates.

Riley’s always believed Landry was straight—but the way Landry keeps checking him out leaves him suddenly unsure. And Landry’s hot looks certainly don’t help squash the crush he’s always had on his brother’s best friend.

Revisiting his teenage crush isn't part of the plan. But as he and Landry fall into a rhythm of thrilling plays on the field and sizzling tension off it, there's no denying their connection.

Riley isn’t willing to trade becoming the next big NFL superstar for love. But with a man like Landry Banks waiting to catch anything he throws at him, maybe he can have both.

https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/147987909-the-star

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My Review: 5/5 Stars

Riley has always wanted to play in the NFL. He knows he isn’t the typical quarterback, but he knows he has what it takes. If he was given the chance. And that day finally comes when the Condors pick him up after their QB is injured. This is his chance to prove his brother wrong. A brother who is always quick to criticize before giving any praise. A brother who tells his best friend to keep an eye on Riley now that he transferred to his team. Landry decided to try a new team when he transferred to the Condors. He never expected that his best friend’s younger brother would be playing by his side. A brother he hadn’t really seen much through the years. But after going to a recent game for Riley, suddenly it’s like Landry is seeing Riley for the first time. And next thing he knows there is a little flirting before Riley comes to his team. And is his new roommate. Landry isn’t sure what to do about his new feelings for Riley but it won’t be long until he realizes that he isn’t going to shy away from what could be one of the best decisions of his life. Riley has always had a crush on Landry but it was just that a crush. A crush he never thought would be reciprocated. Until it was. The more these two spend time together, the more they realize just how well they fit. Now to just tell the brother… I adored these two! It was clear from the moment they were reunited that there was a spark between them. Both got a chance to really know the other outside of the connecting link that was Riley’s brother. We also have a great cast of other characters to keep us on our toes and ones I definitely can’t wait to see get their own stories! Definitely looking forward to the next book!

Mad World Series Book 4: Into the Woods by Hannah McBride

 

Mad World Book 4

I became Bex

After being abandoned in my darkest hour by the boy I thought I loved, I tried to rebuild my life. When that didn’t work, I did what any other sane girl would do—moved to the other side of the world. 

I’ll always be his Becca

When Court Woods shows up in Paris, all bets are off. The danger I tried to shake by leaving is burning brighter than ever, and he might be the only person who can keep me safe. He says he’s changed, but people can’t change who they are like a name. But maybe that’s the problem. Bex. Becca. The name doesn’t matter because...

I’ve always been his.

https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/134096078-into-the-woods

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My Review: 5/5 Stars

Finally! Been dying to get Bex and Court’s book and it has finally arrived! These two have been driving me crazy since I first picked up Mad World. You knew they were meant to be together but so many secrets, over protectiveness, and a few other things kept these two from crossing that final line. But enough is enough. Bex is trying to move on but even though she is across the world in Paris, she still can’t stop thinking about Court. However, she knows she has to. So she gives in and lets her cousin set her up on a blind date. Too bad for her that ends up leading her down a path that is dark and and dangerous enough to involve Phoenix… aka Court. Court’s hit an all time low and his brothers and friends have had enough. He needs to tell Becca how she feels or let her go. And when he is sent on a mission, he sees Becca in the crosshairs and he snaps. Mostly. He’ll have to get his butt kicked a few more times to get things right but he knows the time has come for Becca to learn the truth. Why he pushed her away, why he thought it was a good idea, what he would do to keep her safe. But Court learns that maybe the key to keeping her safe is to have her by his side. These two were… woah! So much to resolve, but the making up was everything we’ve been waiting for. This book had everything we expect in this series, the steamy romance, the action, and the danger. I couldn’t put this down. And I cannot wait to see more of this series play out. We have so many great characters and a story line with so much at stake. Another great book from Hannah! And I can’t wait for more!

I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.

Colorado Bulldogs Book 1: Bad Pucking Time by Michele Lenard

 

Colorado Bulldogs Book 1

The ice is my happy place. My sanctuary. The source of my happiest memories, and the promise of my future. It’s also the reason I’m living a lie.

There’s no better feeling than holding another man in your hand while he comes undone.

Smooth skin wrapped around rigid muscle, a tantalizing mixture of soft and hard that pulses like a heartbeat within your fist. Grunts, moans, and breathless curses are uttered in cadence with the rapid rise and fall of his chest. Strained tendons in his neck.

I’ve yet to see a sexier sight than a man in the throes of his release. The only thing that tops it is when I’m the one who gives it to him.

It’s intoxicating… powerful . For just a moment, I’m in complete control. He’s placed something as sacred as his pleasure in my hands and trusted me to satisfy his needs.

Maybe it’s the fact that men are big and hard that makes watching them fall apart so sexy. Or maybe I just like seeing them vulnerable because society says we shouldn’t be. Whatever the reason, I’m hopelessly drawn to men. Have been since I first learned what attraction was. But that’s my dirty little secret. One that could cost me my shot at the NHL if it comes out.

That’s why he is so dangerous. My lifelong dream is within reach, and now there’s another I want to pursue. If only it weren’t such bad pucking timing.

https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/183724010-bad-pucking-timing

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My Review: 4/5 Stars

When Niko heads to Colorado for a trial run for the NHL team there, he doesn’t plan or even expect to meet someone while sitting at a bar for dinner that will lead to so much more. A one night stand that changes him and Xander. Though they both can’t deny the chemistry between them, they know the chances of them seeing one another again is slim. Plus Niko isn’t ready to come out as he is launching his career in the NHL and Xander is too shaded after being hurt years before. But their lives coming crashing together again when Niko learns that Xander is the son of his new coach. Things are about to get complicated. Though these two try their best to just be friends, the attraction between them is stronger than ever after their time apart. And the more the spend time together and let their walls down, the more they realize just how well they fit together. But there is just so much at stake right now and complications and past hurts that have them wondering if it is worth the risk. But it won’t take long for them to realize that when you find the person you are meant to be with, the risk is always worth it. Loved these two! They fit so well and just balance one another out with their grumpy and sunshine attitudes. This was a really fun read and I’m looking forward to more books in this series!

Chronicles of the Avatar Book 4: The Legacy of Yangchen by FC Yee

 

Chronicles of the Avatar Book 4

From the New York Times bestselling author of Avatar, the Last Airbender: The Rise of Kyoshi and Avatar, the Last Airbender: The Shadow of Kyoshi comes a thrilling new chapter in the Chronicles of the Avatar series and page-turning follow-up to Avatar, the Last Airbender: The Dawn of Yangchen

Common enemies make for strange friends . . .

Avatar Yangchen has succeeded in bringing a measure of stability to Bin-Er, but her successes have been limited to a single city, and rumors concerning Unanimity—a weapon capable of total obliteration—have led to increasing tensions among the Four Nations.

Desperate to restore diplomacy, Yangchen attempts to de-escalate hostilities between heads of state. But in the wake of a brutal assassination and the freeing of Unanimity, Yangchen is forced to bring Kavik—the trusted former companion whose betrayal crushed her—back into her fold.

As the Four Nations teeter on the brink of conflict and she begins to unravel the power-hungry Zongdu Chaisee’s true agenda, Yangchen is forced to measure the worth of humanity, and how much can be sacrificed in the name of balance.

This taut and provocative fourth installment in the Chronicles of the Avatar series follows Avatar Yangchen as she charts the course of her legacy, finally making peace with her choices and facing Avatarhood with the courage it demands.

https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/62996947-the-legacy-of-yangchen

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My Review: 4/5 Stars

In the aftermath of the last book, a lot has changed for Yangchen and Kavik. Kavik’s betrayal has put him at odds with Yangchen but into the hands of the White Lotus while Yangchen is doing her best to end Unanimity once and for all and those who have created it. But in a world of power hungry leaders, she is going to need all the help she can get. Soon Yangchen and Kavik cross paths once more and have no choice but to work together again. Kavik wants to make things right but gaining Yangchen’s forgiveness and the others on her team is no easy thing. Lots of action and revelations in this one! And of course all the twists and turns that will keep you on your toes. You just never know what is going to happen and just when you think you figured it out, someone is a step ahead. A nice resolution to Yangchen’s story for sure! And it’s always nice to see bits and pieces that we catch in the Avatar show.

Exiled Omegas Book 1: Lone Wolf by Tessa Kane

Exiled Omegas Book 1

No good deed goes unpunished.

After being exiled by my pack at seventeen, I've spent the last four years constantly on the move trying to avoid all ties to the shifter world.

Unfortunately, I can’t outrun fate.

When I step in to break up a fight, the shifters involved realize I’m a rare male omega. Not only does that revelation put me in the crosshairs of competing packs that would do anything to control me, it also leads me to cross paths with an Alpha who claims to be my fated mate. 

Past experiences have left scars—both literal and figurative—and, fated mate or not, I’d rather be kidnapped (again), than tie myself to any Alpha.

But bonding with Julien might be exactly what I need.

As the secrets of my past come to light, chaos reigns and new threats emerge. I quickly realize this Alpha is different and placing my trust in him could finally allow me to have the one thing I always wanted.

A home.

Lone Wolf is a fast-paced MM fated mates shifter romance set in an A/B/O world with mpreg. It features a cynical omega who’s a little skeptical of this whole fated mates thing and the cinnamon roll Alpha who refuses to let him go. This book was previously published in serial format on Kindle Vella under the same title. This version has been edited and expanded.

https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/196375837-lone-wolf

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My Review: 4/5 Stars

Keir hasn’t had it easy. At 17, when his pack learned he was a male omega, which to them meant an abomination, they beat him almost to death. And if it wasn’t for his cousin, he would have died. But he was able to get away. Four years later he is still on the run but has been in the same place for a few months now. Hoping that he can continue to stay there under the radar. But everything changes when he tries to help a shifter who was drugged at the club he was working at. Not realizing that in doing so, he has exposed himself. There are good shifters and bad shifters and Keir finds himself in the hands of both as he is kidnapped and rescued over and over again. Especially when he learns that male omegas are rare and actually should be valued for what they could bring to a pack. And never should have been treated so poorly the way he has always been. And to top that when he sees the Alpha of the shifter he saved, things change even more when a fated mate bond snaps into place. Now Keir is fighting between the instinct to run once more or stay with Julien who has made him feel safe for the first time in his life. I was super surprised by how much I enjoyed this story. Keir and Julien were a great match and fit so well together. This world was a different and surprising one that I’ve read when it comes to wolf shifters. Especially when it comes to male omegas. Lots of surprises there. I really enjoyed Keir and Julien’s dynamic as they fought to be together and keep one another safe. We also met some interesting other characters as well. Looking forward to book two!

I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.

Rosetta Academy Book 3: Of Dreams and Destiny by Sandhya Menon

 

Rosetta Academy Book 3

From the New York Times bestselling author of When Dimple Met Rishi comes the third installment in a series set an elite boarding school that’s a contemporary spin on fairy tales, this one a thrilling and swoon-worthy twist on Sleeping Beauty.

It’s senior year, and Daphne Elizabeth “DE” McKinley, the heiress to the McKinley hotel dynasty, is still licking her wounds after a painful breakup. She’s determined to keep her head down and her heart shuttered—even from new student Xander, no matter how dreamy he is. 

Then Rosetta Academy is swallowed up by a sudden and massive spring storm, and very strange things start happening. The students start to fall into a stupor, then a deep sleep…one by one. Soon, DE is racing against the clock to find the source of the strange spell and stop it before it claims the entire school. Could Xander’s help be the key to solving the mystery?

https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/43985512-of-dreams-and-destiny

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My Review: 5/5 Stars

It feels like I have been waiting a long time for this book and it is finally here! The last (at least I’m pretty sure) book of this series and of course I devoured it in a matter of hours. I think I liked this one the best of the series. So this story follows DE, Daphne Elizabeth, who has decided to close off her heart and protect herself after the disaster that was her last relationship. She never wants to feel that way again and is determined to keep it that way. But how does she stand a chance when the new student, Xander, comes into her life? She knows she is in trouble the moment she sees him, but she has to protect herself. She just has to. But weird things start happening at Rosetta Academy. A snow storm threatens to close them off from the outside world and students start falling into a stupor then deep sleep, one by one. DE finds herself remembering the words of a psychic warning her of what was to come and that she had the key to finding it. But she won’t solve this on her own. Xander came to the school to find the truth about his ancestor who died at Rosetta. And as fate would have it, the past may give them the answer to save everyone. Really loved this story! Lot of fun and DE and Xander were a great match. They had excellent chemistry and worked together so well as they solved the mystery of what was going on to their friends and how to save everyone. Also throw in a ton of magic and some Sleeping Beauty references, and we’ve got yet another great story of this series!

Arctic Titans of Northwood U Book 2: Scoring the Keeper by Hayden Hall

 

Arctic Titans of Northwood U Book 2

Sawyer Price is the broodiest, most stubborn guy I ever had the joy of tutoring. He is also the sexiest, most irresistible jock at Northwood U. His hockey scholarship depends on passing the general courses and I’m the cleverest physics cog on campus. I’m kind of brilliant. Not that I’m bragging. But the line of students in need of my help has got to mean something, right? And because I can’t tutor them all, I’m forced to choose my students another way. The thing is, no matter how smart I might be, I’m a total dating disaster. So when Sawyer and I find a mutually beneficial arrangement, I have no way out. He’s going to teach me how to score a guy. And I would be mad to refuse. After all, everyone is dying to hang out with Sawyer Price. The problem with having no dating experience whatsoever is that my tutor quickly becomes my newest obsession. But a guy like that would never want to have me for real, right? I’m just a hopeless nerd trying to trade my V-card and he’s the star goalie for Arctic Titans. We are polar opposites in every way. Even if we take things a step further, we can never really be together.

It seems like the final dating lesson I must learn is on the subject of heartbreak.

Scoring the Keeper is the second 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, very thorough tutoring sessions, and the emotional rollercoaster of self-discovery, acceptance, and growth into adulthood. Scoring the Keeper can be read as a standalone, but it's more fun to read the books in order.

https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/198591554-scoring-the-keeper

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My Review: 4/5 Stars

Sawyer is in desperate need of help. Physics and him just don’t mix and if he can’t pass this class he will lose his hockey scholarship and losing any chance at playing hockey in his future. Everyone tells him the same thing. Find a way to get a tutoring session with the campus’s smartest student: Noah. But that proves to be tricky since every student is hoping he will help them. However, fate may be on Sawyer’s side. He may have something useful to exchange Noah for lessons in physics. Noah may be a genius but when it comes to social interactions he is anything but. Nervous and stumbling, he just can’t find a way to click with someone, let alone get a hook up. And when he sees how effortlessly flirts and gets the attention of guys and girls, well perhaps Sawyer can tutor him in that. But the more these two get to know one another, the more feelings start to form between them. Could they actually have something real? I really loved these two! They were such a great balance for one another and fit super well together. They had such great chemistry and banter, I couldn’t put their story down! Definitely looking forward to the next book in this series.

I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.

Age of Vampires Book 1: Eternal Reign by Caroline Peckham & Susanne Valenti

 

Age of Vampires Book 1

The vampire prince has never claimed a human. Until now.

My whole life I’ve been nothing but a means to an end; livestock kept caged for the production of blood. I’ve stared through fences at the promise of freedom countless times, but the only way anyone escapes this hell is in the hands of a bloodsucker.

The annual testing is about to begin, and those who pass are never seen again. So fu*k that. My twin and I decided to risk it all. To run before the royals could claim us.

Turns out, that dream expired fast. Because when an original vampire decides to own you, there’s nowhere in this ruined world left to escape to.

I’m at his mercy now, trapped in his castle, destined to become his creature, and forced into a dangerous game of rivalry between the seductive vampire princes.

His beauty is a weapon I wasn’t prepared for, his cruelty a bane that strikes fear in the hearts of all, and his company a sin I’m going to spend my life repenting.

I need to get back to my sister, but she’s caught in a trap of her own, tangled up with the last slayer to walk this earth and following his path towards vengeance. She’s at his mercy too, the man with violence tattooed across his skin, death trailing his footsteps as he stalks his prey - who just so happen to be the royal vampires who hold me captive.

The gods are toying with us all, placing my twin and I on opposite sides of an ancient war. And in the end, I fear there won’t be any victors left standing.

So I’m going to play a game of my own, let my captor use me as his puppet until I find my moment to strike.

Let this hell-born ritual of lust, lies and blood begin.

**This is a dark, fantasy romance series by the authors of Zodiac Academy with all the enemies to lovers vibes – don’t go expecting a sweet vampire with sparkling skin and a tendency to watch you sleeping. These vampires are savage and bloodthirsty, and the slayer who hunts them will stab first and ask questions later. This war-torn fantasy world is a brutal bi*ch and only those 18+ have a chance at surviving the darkness lurking between these pages. There’s no well-meaning vampires snacking on Bambies instead of babies, and if they get their teeth into you, you’ll be damn lucky to escape with your life and panties intact. So grab hold of your slayer blade (wooden stakes have too many splinters) and get ready to defy the gods, because this is going to be one helluva ride***

https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/197485398-eternal-reign

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My Review: 4/5 Stars

I haven’t read all of the Twisted Sisters work just yet, but for this series in particular I decide to wait when I heard they were going to revisit and edit it. A whole new world so different from the ones we’ve seen so far. This book follows fraternal twins, Callie and Montana. Sisters born in a time where vampires rule over humans in less that ideal conditions. They are gathered together in what are called Realms and treated beyond poorly. Their father has taught them what the world was like before the vampires took over and it is a world these two can never imagine. But everything is about to change for them. When the vampires come to their door to “test” them, they know that they’ll be back to take Callie and Montana somewhere they’ll come back from. Desperate, they decide to flee and in doing so are separated. Callie finds herself rescued by a man out of time. A vampire slayer and warrior who can wield magic and is determined to end the vampires. While Montana is taken to the royal vampires and finds herself chosen by one of the Princes as they play a game she does not quite understand. Callie and Montana are about to learn way more than they ever knew about the world they live in. This was a super interesting world and concept. And we only have just begun. Callie and Montana are alike but yet so different. Both are fierce warriors in their own right who won’t stop fighting to find a way back to the one another and their father. They aren’t afraid to fight and be heard, no matter the consequences. It is definitely going to be an interesting series!

I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.

Unlucky 13 Book 13: Shattered by Charli Meadows

 

Unlucky 13 Book 13

Welcome to Black Diamond Resort and Spa. . .

Ah. The former child star, throwing a tantrum at the airport until he gets his way. How appropriate. I keep an eye on who comes and goes from my island, but I also keep a low profile, choosing to blend in as one of the regulars. I stay in a villa on the water, like everyone else, and my new neighbor is none other than Jett Roman himself.

The exhausted, entitled brat with the smart mouth and tempting glare resists all help from my staff. He seeks me out daily, venting his frustrations, ignoring all rules. He disrespects my establishment and, unknowingly, me.

I’m a very patient man, but everyone has their limits. I will be gentle with the delicate little doll before me, but he needs to listen. Because it’s clear to everyone else that he’s utterly shattered, and I can’t seem to stop myself from wanting to bend him a little before I heal his broken pieces.

Shattered is the final book in the Unlucky 13 shared world. It is a standalone gay romance. You can expect a light, enemies-to-lovers dynamic with humor, an age gap, hurt/comfort, and a hidden identity. This novel is intended for 18+ readers. See Author’s Note for Content Warnings.

https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/128190668-shattered

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My Review: 4/5 Stars

Actor Jett Roman is anything but happy when he realizes that his manager tricked him into going to Black Diamond for the rehab side of the island. Jett may have certain issues but a drug problem isn’t one of them. Especially when the recent incident wasn’t on him. Lucky for him there is someone to help him sort it out. Enter Callum Ryan. A billionaire who owns the island Black Diamond sits on. Not that Jett or most of the people who live and work on the island know that. Cal is instantly drawn to Jett despite Jett’s bratty attitude and the fact that Jett is 21 to Cal’s 38. But the feeling is mutual when Jett looks at Cal. Their humorous and enemies to lover relationship is pretty hilarious as these banter back and forth. But underneath all that snark and wit, these two actually begin to care for one another. And Cal especially finds himself wanting to take care of Jett who seems to have been through quite a lot though he is cagey to reveal any of it. This was a nice end to the series tying in some of my favorite couples from the series. 

Puckboys Book 5: Clueless Puckboy by Eden Finley & Saxon James

 

Puckboys Book 5

Quinn

Straining my groin is bad enough. It puts my hockey career, my future, but even worse, my dignity on the line. Having to get massages in that area from Vance Landon, one of the team trainers, is mortifying. It’s impossible to hide my feelings toward him. If my constant blushing and bumbling doesn’t give it away, my body does. It’s getting to the point where I wonder if hockey is even worth the embarrassment.

Trying to avoid him only makes him seek me out more. He’s determined to rehab my injury, but all I want is for him to leave me alone. Or fall for me. One or the other.

Vance

Ayri Quinn isn’t your typical jock … except for the fact he refuses to admit when he’s injured. I’ve seen more than enough professional sportsmen lose the career they love due to injury, and I’m not having it happen again. Especially not when the guy in question happens to be the sweetest, most awkward, innocent jock I’ve ever met.

When a night out leads to Quinn re-injuring himself, I create a care plan that keeps me hands on, literally. Unfortunately, working with him in close proximity brings all those feelings I’ve been trying to ignore to the surface. I just need to get him better so he can be back on the ice and out of my bed. Ah, my massage bed. Because if this goes on any longer, I might mean my actual bed. Ayri Quinn is impossible to resist.

https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/186178284-clueless-puckboy

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My Review: 5/5 Stars

Oh my god, this book will have you in stitches. I could not get over how hilarious Quinn was. This poor boy is super flustered and sweet and clueless and watching him try to be around Vance, especially in the beginning, was everything. When Quinn gets an injury that is in an embarrassing spot, it only gets worse for the times he has to go to Vance, the trainer, to help him out. Talk about awkward. Quinn is constantly blushing and just make noises or his words get jumbled as he tries to keep his cool around. Spoiler alert: he cannot. But it’s “ferfect” (you’ll get that when you read LOL). Meanwhile, Vance knows that Quinn is avoiding telling the truth about his injury and corners him to be honest about it. Vance has had a bit of crush on Quinn but he knows he has to be a professional about it. Though when he overhears that Quinn likes him back, well things get interesting. When they acknowledge that there is something between them, they know they can’t act on it. So they try to stay apart but that turns out to be harder than they realize. And once they give in, neither want to lose something they both know deep down can be the start of something amazing. I adored their story. I couldn’t stop laughing as they two figured out they belong together. Really fun story! I cannot wait for the next one because I think we are about to get a very interesting story coming our way! 

I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.