Bar Down Book 1: Rule Breaker by Ava Olsen

 

Bar Down Book 1

Maddox Hockey is the only thing I care about. College? Hell no. And the last thing I need is Kayden, a golden retriever teammate who thinks I’m gonna drop my surly attitude and become his BFF. I know from painful experience to never to let my guard down and the only rule I follow is my own. But unlike everyone else, Kayden doesn’t sprint away from me. Instead, he’s skating too close. And we’re set to collide.

Kayden I love college. My hockey team, the parties, the people. Classes, not so much. Especially when I get paired with Maddox, a goalie who offers nothing but snarky comments and snide looks. He’s brilliant and beautiful, and I’m the jock on an athletic scholarship. He hates me but so what? We’re stuck together at away games. His anger sparks a reckless want I’ve never felt before. And I always follow the rules. So why does Maddox make me want to break every one?

Rule Breaker is a double queer awakening, grumpy/sunshine, hurt/comfort, college hockey MM romance. Expect broken boys, bruised hearts, and an HEA neither saw coming. Themes of mental health, learning disorder, and first times.

https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/215509397-rule-breaker

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My Review: 4/5 Stars

Maddox has learned his lesson in keeping his guard up. Keep it up, and no one can hurt you. There is one thing he cares about and it is hockey. So he is gonna do what he can to be successful for that and that doesn’t include making friends with teammates. But Kayden doesn’t get that message. No matter how many times Maddox tells him to get lost. And bit by bit, Maddox starts to expect Kayden to try. To talk to him and get to know him. And Maddox is surprised at himself for actually wanting Kayden to keep coming back. Kayden loves hockey and his friends but school not so much. It’s a struggle for him. And even when the new guy Maddox keeps hating on him, he can’t help but try and continue to reach out. He can’t see past the wall Maddox has built. And he knows deep down that he can’t give up just yet. We have a nice grumpy and sunshine dynamic going on for sure. And it becomes sweeter when these two begin to realize that they are attracted to one another. And it’s only a matter of time until these two snap and act on their feelings. I really enjoyed this story! I loved how Kayden was patient with Maddox and began to get to know him and read him. He respected when Maddox needed space and knew when to push. And I loved how he never truly gave up on being Maddox’s friend. And I loved how Maddox slowly began to let his wall down around Kayden. He deserves to have good people in his life and be supported. Great first book in this series and I am looking forward to more!

I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.

The Swift Brothers Book 2: Easton by Riley Hart

 

The Swift Brothers Book 2

Easton

I’m the youngest Swift brother. The one who’s always in trouble and can’t get his life together. I wouldn’t know where to start, and ever since my twin died, I can’t bring myself to care. After my last “situation,” Dad washed his hands of me. And though my brothers should’ve done the same, they stood up for me, fracturing their relationship with him too. He’s a terrible father to all of us, but considering we’re just figuring out how to build a relationship, I don’t want them to lose him because of me.

Officer Archer Thorn won’t stop coming around either. After every screwup, every bad day, Archer’s there to offer a hand. Before I know it, we’re going to dog parks, sharing meals, and Archer seems at home hanging at my place. When he touches me, fills me, all the noise in my head goes quiet. He makes me want more, but he doesn’t know how much that terrifies me, how much I worry that getting better means breaking a promise I made years ago.

Each moment with Archer shows me how good a man he is. For the first time, I actually want to face my trauma and get over my past. Archer makes me see there’s beauty in the world and, more importantly, he makes me want some of it for myself…that is, if I don’t ruin Archer Thorn first.

* Easton is a small-town, hurt/comfort romance full of heart, heat, a touch-starved MC, and brothers learning how to have a relationship with each other. It deals with themes of grief, death of a parent and a sibling, and mental-health struggles.

https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/209530892-easton

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My Review: 5/5 Stars

I have been beyond excited to get my hands on this story after reading Morgan’s! It is Easton’s turn and we all know how badly this guy needs some love and happiness. And the best guy for that job is Archer. Even before this book, you could see there was something sparking between them. But as soon as you start this story, you can see exactly where it starts and how impactful it is. Easton hasn’t been the same since his twin, Ella, died when they were nine. Even before then, things were never right. His dad hated him when Easton’s mother died after birthing the twins. And when Ella died, the anger grew more twisted to the point where it truly damaged Easton. Their family is a mess. Between his dad and his brothers. But things are starting to change. And it started when his brothers finally stood up for him and cut themselves from their father. They’ve had enough and realized it would be best for them all. Because the bond between them is so important and they need one another. But for years, Easton hasn’t been drowning in this pain. Holding on to his sister as tight as he can. And when he gets into trouble, Archer has been there to help. And now things between them are finally shifting into something more. Something way more potent. Archer sees past the armor Easton has on himself. He won’t let Easton push him away. Especially when Easton finally let’s him in a bit. He doesn’t know how he can help exactly but what he does know is that he won’t abandon Easton. His heart belongs to Easton even before he realizes he has given it away. I adored these two. I loved watching them fall in love and support one another and just be there. They fit. And neither are willing to give the other up. I adored this story, in case that wasn’t clear. The author knows how to tug at your heartstrings and this one definitely didn’t hold back. One more Swift brother to go and something tells me he may have the toughest story yet. There is a lot we don’t know bout Rhett but we are gonna find out. 

I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.

Portland Evergreens Book 1: Melting the Ice by Beth Bolden

 

Portland Evergreens Book 1

Brody’s got enough on his plate.

Recovering from a knee injury he hopes won’t keep him off the ice. His team, the Portland University Evergreens, have a brand new coach, and he’s hoping to impress the legendary leader. Plus, he's got to make a decision once and for all about playing professional hockey or using his love of science to go a totally different direction.

The last thing he needs is a sexual awakening at the large, calloused hands of his football player roommate.

Dean is big and brawny and taciturn, but he doesn’t need words to woo Brody. He wants Dean, even if he thought he was straight. And Dean? Doesn’t matter that he’s never hooked up with a guy before, either.

They’re discovering new pleasures every night, while pretending during the day that they’re just roommates.

Except the heat burns so hot between them, it doesn’t just melt all the ice on Brody’s rink, it melts all his beliefs about who he is and what he wants.

But even more, it destroys the lie that he can’t fall hard for a guy. Because Brody is falling hard for Dean, and he discovers he’s not alone.

https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/215538460-melting-the-ice

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My Review: 5/5 Stars

I’ve been looking forward to Beth writing a hockey series and she did not disappoint! But not only do we have a hockey player main character, but a football one as well! With a few surprising cameos you will love if you keep up with Beth’s books. So this story follows Brody and Dean. College athletes thrown together as roommates and both on track to play professionally in their respected sports. Well at least Dean, our football player is. Dean has always been focused on his goal to make it to the NFL. Growing up with no dad and a mother who just isn’t around, Dean has learned to rely on only himself. Something that reflects a bit in his football skills and when it comes to making friends. For Brody, he has always had a love for science and the idea of going to med school to become a doctor and to play for the NHL. He was drafted already but after an injury his previous season, he comes back to this new season with all kinds of doubts. Like what his future should actually be. And if that wasn’t enough to think about, his best friend throws Brody a new roommate rather than himself. Though Brody at first is mad at his friend, that melts away when he meets Dean. The two of them just click and get one another in a way they don’t really do with others. And it’s only a matter of time before that slowly shifts to something more. Neither have ever felt this way about a person, let alone another guy, but I loved as they two slowly tried to figure it out. Both of them are so caring and sweet, and the two of them were adorable as they fell in love yet were too scared to actually tell the other. It makes it so satisfying when they finally take the leap of admitting their feelings! This was a great book to kick the series off with! Our main guys were great and we met a lot of other interesting characters who will be getting their own books soon. I can’t wait to read them all!

I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.

SCU Hockey Book 1: Shots on Net by JJ Mulder

 

SCU Hockey Book 1

Carter Morgan III hates everything about South Carolina University except for one thing: hockey. As the starting netminder for the team, he lives for those moments when he can step onto the ice and between the pipes. Unfortunately, his time at school and on the team is slowly coming to an end; although he’d love nothing more than to pursue a career in the NHL, he knows better than to get his hopes up.

Zeke Cassidy needs a place to live. When he answers an advertisement for a roommate, he’s not sure what he is expecting except that it isn’t Carter Morgan III. Carter is unfriendly, aloof, and they have nothing in common; even so, the pair hit it off immediately and become friends.

Carter knows Zeke isn’t interested in being anything beyond friends and roommates. Unfortunately, knowing this doesn’t stop him from hoping for more, no matter how much he tries to convince himself it’s impossible.

https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/210495899-shots-on-net#CommunityReviews

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My Review: 5/5 Stars

Zeke is in need a of place to live. When he answers an ad for a roommate, he isn’t sure what to expect. Especially when he shows up soaked from the rain. And with a name like Carter Morgan III, he wonders what he has gotten himself into. But Carter is nothing like how Zeke imagined he would be. Gruff and quiet, this hockey player takes Zeke by surprise at every turn. Zeke does his best to befriend him and he can see that he is winning Carter over a little every day. Something that pleases him knowing that he can make him smile and that they are becoming friends. Meanwhile, Carter has never really been happy since he came to SCU except when it comes to hockey. Hockey is what is keeping him going. And he is going to enjoy that until his dad makes him work for his company when he graduates. This year, he is finally able to take his hockey coach’s advice and get a roommate and make some friends. He isn’t really friendly with his hockey team except for one person. And suddenly, he finds himself falling for Zeke a little more each day. Carter isn’t used to being shown love or attention but that is never a problem for Zeke who goes out of his way to shower Carter with a meaningful friendship. And as the two get to know one another, feelings start to form. For Zeke it’s a little slower because he is demi but it is no less powerful once it truly hits him when he understands the feelings he has developed for Carter. I adored these two! I was surprised just how much I ended up loving this book. So naturally I will be jumping to book two and the other series connected to this one. Very excited to see where these stories takes me!

Desert Ice Hockey Book 2: Crossing Lines by Christie Gordon

 

Desert Ice Hockey Book 2

The moment I catch sight of the new coach, a spark ignites. Do we risk it all with a secret affair?

Jonah

I’m minding my own business when he struts into our locker room.

His confidence and sex appeal in his fitted suit and million-dollar smile are undeniable.

After picking my jaw off the floor, I collect myself. I need to find out more about him.

Do I follow him around? Yes. Do I make a fool of myself? Maybe.

While celebrating a win at the gay bar, my temper flares when I see him with another man. Do I dare take a chance?

Ryan

The first day at my new coaching job, he’s there. A winger whose dark hair and light blue eyes have me stumbling over my first words to the team.

Personal relations with players aren’t allowed. But he plays offense and I coach defense, so does it count?

Everywhere I go, he’s there. Tempting me.

My resolve is crumbling and I’m struggling to keep my distance.

When he catches me at a gay bar in a compromising position, it’s game over. Can we keep this hidden?

Crossing Lines is the second book in the college hockey series, Desert Ice Hockey, and is the follow up to the Rock U series. It features a coach with a dark past and a driven hockey player, a secret relationship, found family, hurt/comfort and a small age gap. Desert Ice Hockey follows a group of queer hockey players, known as the squad, while they each battle for their HEA.

Buy now to explore a world where emotions run as high as the heat, and hockey isn’t the only game in town!

https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/213571800-crossing-lines

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My Review: 4/5 Stars

The moment Jonah sees the new defense coach for his college hockey team, he knows he is in trouble. This feeling of needing to get to know him is strong. Something he has never felt with anyone before. And when their eyes connect, Jonah can’t help but wonder if Ryan feels it too. Ryan came to this job after taking his mother who was now in remission after treating her cancer. He is ready to do a good job and start fresh in a new place after also being out of a relationship for a while now. But when he sees Jonah, he knows things could take a turn for complicated. He is attracted to him, no doubt. And it becomes clear that Jonah feels the same toward him. And even though technically he isn’t Jonah’s coach, he is still part of the hockey staff. Would that matter? He isn’t sure and doesn’t want to take a chance. But when Ryan finds himself in trouble with a one time hook up turned stalker, Jonah is there to save the day. And they both finally cross the line they’ve been treading for weeks. And there is no going back after that. Not after they have proven their connection could be so much more. For now, they’ll have to keep it a secret. But can they make it through the season? I really enjoyed Jonah and Ryan’s story. It was clear these two were smitten from the moment they locked eyes. I loved getting to know these two characters and find their way to their happy ending. I’m liking this series so far and I can’t wait for the next one to come out!

Desert Ice Hockey Book 0.5: Taking a Shot by Christie Gordon

 

Desert Ice Hockey Book 0.5

Why am I so boy crazy this year? Must be something in the ice.Archer

I’ve been hooking up with a wicked little keyboard player. Problem is, I think I want more.

So, after a particularly fiery time together, I decide to ask him on a date.

But he’s been stammering about some old friend who’s come back to town.

No matter if this works out, I know my person is out there. And I’m going to find him.

Taking a Shot is part of the Desert Ice Hockey series. It takes place before the first book (Stick By Me). It contains the backstory of Archer’s relationship with Milo, a keyboard player from the Rock U series, and is an introduction to the squad, a group of queer college hockey players and best friends who share a house together. It includes a steamy scene.

Desert Ice Hockey is a spin-off of the Rock U series and follows a group of young queer men who worked hard to play together on the same college hockey team. Follow along as they each find their happily ever after with nerds, coaches, other hockey players and more. Each book in the series follows a different couple and can be read as a standalone.

https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/210684435-taking-a-shot

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My Review: 4/5 Stars

This is a little short story to give you a better idea of what happened between Archer and Milo before Stick by Me! It was nice to get a closer look to what happened between them and where Archer was at before we get into his story and him finding his well deserved happy ending.  It was also a good bridge between these two series. I haven’t read the previous two series before this Desert Ice Hockey one, but it’s very clear that this is a big world by this author and there are plenty of crossovers! I look forward to exploring more by this author. 

Desert Ice Hockey Book 1: Stick by Me by Christie Gordon

 

Desert Ice Hockey Book 1

Hockey is my life, until I meet an adorable nerd. But he doesn’t date men. Can I convince him to take a chance?

Archer

Hockey was everything, but now I’m questioning if I’ll ever make it to the NHL.

I need to find a life.

In comes a stunning guy in designer jeans and hair so dark and silky, I struggle to keep my fingers to myself.

We connect at an animal rescue, where I accidentally soak him with a hose. I give him my team shirt to make amends.

The vision of him in my clothes stirs a primal urge in me.

When he mentions he’s queer, my heart skips a beat. But he’s only interested in a hookup.

Game on.

Will he accept my challenge for a date?

Leo

I’m having a moral dilemma. I don’t date men. I have an out and proud brother and, in my family, it’s complicated.

Then Archer comes along, eyeing me like a piece of candy and daring me to date him. Yeah, I’m interested.

Problem is, the dare goes awry. I find myself falling so deeply for Archer, there’s no turning back.

When his life goes off the rails, I’m forced to make a decision and fast.

Stick By Me is the first book in the College Hockey series, Desert Ice Hockey, and is the follow up to the Rock U series. It features a dependable nerd and a rebel jock, opposites attract, found family, hurt/comfort, and a secret relationship amidst the backdrop of the holidays. Desert Ice Hockey follows a group of queer hockey players, known as the squad, while they each battle for their HEA.

Buy now to explore a world where emotions run as high as the heat, and hockey isn’t the only game in town!

https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/209592766-stick-by-me

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My Review: 4/5 Stars

Archer has been done with the hook up scene and hopes to find an actual boyfriend. You know, when he isn’t studying or playing hockey for his college team. And after volunteering at an animal shelter and accidentally spraying another volunteer with a hose, well he may have just found the perfect guy. Especially when he forgives him so easily for the accident. Leo thought he was okay being the straight son of the family. He never let himself date guys and let even his best friend and brother know. But then Leo meets Archer. And suddenly it makes sense why no one in his past relationships have been right. He’s been waiting for Archer. But can he get past the dear of telling his family the truth and it not blowing up? I adored these two. They were so sweet and brought out the best in one another. They supported one another through so much. And it seems i stumbled upon a pretty big and established world. So looks like i will have to check out previous series! Looking forward to book two!

Creepin U Book 2: Dryad, Try Again by CD Rachels

 

Creepin U Book 2

You’re formally admitted to Creelin University, known locally as “Creepin U.” The only things wilder than the monsters prowling around campus are the spicy male-male love stories unfolding between classes. “Dryad, Try Again” is book two, starring a hard-working human, and the tree spirit shifter who never stopped caring about him. Each book is a standalone M/M spicy, spooky romance, but we hope you enroll in them all.

I didn’t think I’d ever see my first crush―a human―again after humiliating myself as a sapling of a kid. But now we’ve both bloomed, and we’re going to college together. What’s a tree spirit to do?

I never fit in anywhere until I got to CU. Now, I have friends, I help the staff, and I’m acing my studies. No serious relationships for this dryad, not after the disaster of my childhood. 

But like a willow in the spring, my past has returned. I knew they were letting in humans at CU, but what are the odds that I would befriend my childhood first kiss?

Tanner has more than a few emotional scars from his youth, not least of which was how we met. He claims he’s fine, but I instilled in him a deep-seeded fear of the trees I love. I make it my mission to teach him all about forestry from a first-hand perspective, as well as life living with monsters.

Between the shared laughs and stolen glances, it’s entirely possible the sprouts of attraction between us were never uprooted. Spending time with him could be the second chance I never knew I needed. But now that we’re not saplings anymore, can I convince him I’ve turned over a new leaf?

I’ve had my branches tangled over Tanner for years. With two hearts on the line, it’s time for this dryad to try to be the perfect monster for this human.

Dryad, Try Again is a second chance MM monster romance romantic comedy. It features first kisses, sunset picnics, and yes, freaky tree spice scenes. At Creepin U, a HEA is always guaranteed.

https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/215010500-dryad-try-again

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My Review: 4/5 Stars

Kovi will never forget his first kiss with the human boy he met when he was a kid. He will also never forget how they lead to him being unable to control his ability to shift into a dryad and accidentally hurt the boy that was his only friend and crush. And he never saw him again after that. Until now. Fate intervenes when Tanner arrives at Creepin U. Unfortunately, getting hurt as a kid left him with some phobia of monsters that reside in the forest, but even he can’t deny the attraction he feels to Kovi. And when he learns that he was the boy who gave him his scar and was his only friend back then? Well, his confused feelings only last a moment because what he feels for Kovi is so much stronger than a childhood accident and fears. But anxiety isn’t something to simply pushed aside. For both of them. They’ll have to fight for one another if they want any chance of a future together. I really enjoyed Kovi and Tanner’s story! I loved that they met as kids and now have a second chance of a love that could have blossomed if they were given enough time. I’m really enjoying this world and these characters and I can’t wait to see what the rest of the series brings!

I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.

Creepin U Book 1: The Nøkk and the Jock by Leslie McAdam

Creepin U Book 1

You’re formally admitted to Creelin University—known locally as “Creepin U.” The only things wilder than the monster shifters prowling around campus are the spicy male-male love stories unfolding between classes. The Nøkk and the Jock is book one, starring an emo shapeshifter and a sunshine human. Each book is a stand-alone M/M spooky romance, but we hope you enroll in them all.

Brandon:

I’m pumped to be one of the first humans to attend a monster university, but a minor, negligible, insignificant issue arises almost immediately: My new roommate wants to drag me to his underground realm and take my soul.

He’s a nøkk who could almost pass for human, except his webbed fingers and entirely black eyes give him away. In my attempt to befriend him, I give him three drops of my blood, a black animal, and a bottle of vodka (I hear it’s a nøkk thing). Which apparently triggers some ancient bonding ritual. My bad.

I must admit I’m into him. Maybe those online tests that say I’m only mostlystraight are right. But there are a few hiccups: I can’t know his real name. He won’t show me his true form. And he’s both an omen and a cause of drowning … which is troubling, since he’s on the water polo team with me.

Still, something about him calls to me, even if it shouldn’t.

The Nøkk:

This human is mine.

Stay away from him.

The Nøkk and the Jock is a monster-human bi-awakening M/M romance starring Brandon Fernandez, a golden retriever of a human being, and the prickly, melancholy nøkk. It features puzzling emoji text conversations, a monster who can stop waterfalls in midair, and drunken scareoke (monster karaoke). HEA guaranteed.

https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/214967453-the-n-kk-and-the-jock

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My Review: 5/5 Stars

I have never really read a monster human romance before but when I saw Leslie McAdam announcing this book and series, I was definitely intrigued! I am a big fan of her writing and figured if I was going to try this genre, she was my best bet. And she did not disappoint! What an interesting world she and the other authors of this series created! Her story follows Brandon, a human attending a college that recently catered to monsters but now is open to humans, and the Nøkk. Whose name we cannot know because giving their true name to those they are not bonded too or family means their death. Though until we learn his name, he goes by Steve. Brandon is determined to make friends with his new roommate. So after searching he finds what is expected for him to present to make nice. Though he doesn’t realize it’s just the beginning of form of a bond. One that accidentally gets triggered when both of their bloods mix. But even before that, the two of them can’t deny the connection that sparks between them when they meet. Steve does his best to protect Brandon from him, but Brandon is persistent and not one to shy away from someone he likes and wants to protect and care for in his own way. And when Brandon realizes that he actually has romantic feelings for Steve, he’ll be sure to show Steve how he feels. These two were so sweet! I love how Brandon is just a great guy who doesn’t judge simply on appearances but on who that person is. He shows Steve every time they are together, that he is there for Steve and who he is and nothing more. Steve has trouble believing that others won’t shy away when he is in his true Nøkk form based on his past and his mother. But he learns that Brandon is no ordinary human and how can he not fall for him back? This was such an interesting world with so many different types of monsters. I am excited to continue reading this series!

I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.

The Duke Brothers Book 3: The Moment She Came Back by Lani Blake

 

The Duke Brothers Book 3

Coming face to face with your first love was never going to be easy.

The day Brody Duke walked into his daughter Ally’s classroom and saw Phoebe Stanway, he understood two things.

The grown-up version of the girl he’d once adored was going to be hard to resist. Second, she wanted nothing to do with him.

As if that wasn’t enough to unsettle him, his ex walked back into town stating she was ready to be a mother to the daughter she’d walked out on.

Suddenly, the life he’d created for them was in jeopardy, and Brody had no idea what to do about it.

After the hell Phoebe went through last year, she decided it was time to come home to heal with her family in Lyntacky. What she hadn’t expected was running into Brody Duke again so soon.

Their breakup had been hard, and this time she was keeping her distance, and her heart safe.

The only problem with that was his daughter. Sweet, smart, and argumentative, she was her classes resident troublemaker.

Phoebe saw a lot of awkward parent-teacher conferences in her future.

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/208849373-the-moment-she-came-back

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My Review: 5/5 Stars

Back in Lyntacky and now it is Brody’s turn. Ten years ago, Brody was sure him and his girlfriend, Phoebe, were endgame. But when she Phoebe leaves for college and leaves him behind, he can’t help but be upset. He recognized a little late then that he was acting like an idiot. He was young but he should have tried harder to apologize. But when she never answered his calls, he thought perhaps she was done with him. A lot has changed in ten years since he last saw her. Brody had a daughter after a night where he was determined to forget Phoebe and since then has raised her on his own. But Phoebe is back in town. Teaching at his daughter’s school. And he realizes that she was what has been missing from his life after all these years. He just needs to talk to her again and maybe they have a chance. Phoebe knows her and Brody breaking up was partly her fault, but she also recognizes that the way she put him on a pedestal wasn’t healthy either. And with so much that has happened since then, she doesn’t want to fall for him again. She’ll work hard to stay her distance and shield her heart. But he doesn’t make it easy. These two did not make things easy for one another! A lot of history but a lot of growing up too. It was sweet to see them slowly find their way back to one another. And to see how much growth they have endured during the years. From what you see about their younger selves, well, they may not have made it as far unless things changed. Another great story in this series! As always to the love story, we get some drama and excitement with a few other things going on. And it will always keep you on your toes! Can’t wait for the next Duke story!

I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.

Austin Troopers Book 5: Tumbling the Cornerback by Meredith Spies

 

Austin Troopers Book 5

2-4-6-8, Who Thinks Cooper Howard's great?

Everyone but me! I've been busting my backside for three years as one of the handful of male cheerleaders in the league and it takes Cooper "Coppertop" Howard five minutes to knock me back down to the status of laughing stock. All of my hard work for the cheer squad's fundraiser up in literal smoke thanks to his size twenty feet and lack of spatial awareness. You'd think the brand-new cornerback the team shelled out an insane amount of money for would be able to navigate tight turns better but the pile of charred pom poms and Austin Troopers mascot plushies begs to differ. When Cooper tries to make it up to me, I do the only thing I Tell him where to stuff it. But he's determined. And sincere. And... okay, he's really hot and he's really winning me over. Maybe accepting his apology wouldn't be so bad? Not if it means repairing my image and comes with a side of hot, sweaty football player in my bedroom...

This is part of the Austin Troopers shared world and can be read as a standalone. It features opposites attract, the grumpy one and the sunshiney one, a smidge of hurt/comfort, and a happily ever after.

https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/203934535-tumbling-the-cornerback

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My Review: 4/5 Stars

Lucas has sworn off professional players. Technically as a cheerleader for the Austin Troopers, he isn’t allowed to date a player. And he’ll admit in the past he may have broken the rule but his heart paid the price when these guys showed their true colors. But enough is enough. He won’t make the mistake again… until Cooper comes crashing into his life and breaks the walls he put up one by one. How can he resist sweet Cooper? Even when he gets on Cooper’s bad side at first just to prove it’s impossible to stay mad? Cooper has had a crush on Lucas for a long time. And now he finally has a chance to talk to him and get to know him. But of course there are some complications that threaten to break them before they even can start. And when they do have a chance, they have to be careful or risk Lucas getting fired. But what they have? Could be worth it all. I really enjoyed this latest Austin Troopers story! We’ve seen Cooper mentioned a bit. So it was nice to finally get his story. And Lucas was great too! Looking forward to the next one. 

Cerulean Chronicles Book 2: Somewhere Beyond the Sea by TJ Klune

 

Cerulean Chronicles Book 2

Hope is the thing with feathers. And hope is the thing with fire.

Featuring gorgeous golden yellow sprayed edges! Somewhere Beyond the Sea is the hugely anticipated sequel to TJ Klune's The House in the Cerulean Sea, one of the best-loved and best-selling fantasy novels of the past decade.

A magical house. A secret past. A summons that could change everything.

Arthur Parnassus lives a good life, built on the ashes of a bad one. He’s the headmaster of a strange orphanage on a distant and peculiar island, and he hopes to soon be the adoptive father to the six magical and so-called dangerous children who live there.

Arthur works hard and loves with his whole heart so none of the children ever feel the neglect and pain that he once felt as an orphan on that very same island so long ago. And he is not alone: joining him is the love of his life, Linus Baker, a former caseworker in the Department in Charge of Magical Youth; Zoe Chapelwhite, the island’s sprite; and her girlfriend, Mayor Helen Webb. Together, they will do anything to protect the children.

But when Arthur is summoned to make a public statement about his dark past, he finds himself at the helm of a fight for the future that his family, and all magical people, deserve.

And when a new magical child hopes to join them on their island home―one who finds power in calling himself monster, a name Arthur worked so hard to protect his children from―Arthur knows they’re at a breaking point: their family will either grow stronger than ever or fall apart.

Welcome back to Marsyas Island. This is Arthur’s story.

https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/199347538-somewhere-beyond-the-sea

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My Review: 5/5 Stars

A brilliant sequel to The House in the Cerulean Sea, it is now Arthur’s turn to tell the story! A little time has passed since the last book and Arthur has decided to tell his story in the hopes of taking another step toward a better future for the magical community and for his children. But even while he tells his side, there are still those in the government willing to work against him. And when they decide to set yet another inspector to them, Arthur knows their minds will be made up before even reaching the island. So what can he do? Lucky for him, he is not alone. Not when he has the love of his life, Linus, by his side. And Zoe and Helen, and their six (about to be seven) wonderful children. He will do anything to protect those he loves. Get ready for more laughs and mischief and a beautiful story about fighting for what is right. I loved this sequel! More from these amazing characters and a story that tugs at your heart. I found myself laughing so much in this book. And I couldn’t put it down.  I will miss this world so much! 

The Step Don’t Out Today!

Good stepbrothers keep each other’s dirty secrets.

Great stepbrothers help each other explore them.

The Step Don’t, an all-new steamy, friends to lovers, forbidden, M/M romance from bestselling authors Riley Hart and Devon McCormack is now available!

ASH

All stepbrothers need Step Don’ts.

Colin and I have ours.

Like, don’t pit our parents against either of us. Don’t hog the TV. And definitely…

Don’t.

Keep.

Secrets.

These rules have done more than help us keep the peace between us.

After all these years since our parents got together, I can’t imagine my life without Colin.

To most people, he’s the hot, straight tight end for Peach State.

But to me, he’s my backward-cap-wearing, football-loving, piggyback-ride-giving best friend and fellow Alpha Theta Mu frat bro.

Life’s pretty incredible living together at the same frat house, but suddenly, I find myself keeping a particularly naughty secret.

I tell myself Colin wouldn’t want to know what his bi bro does in private, but then why do I feel like I’m committing a huge Step Don’t?

COLIN

There’s nothing I’m more of an expert in than my stepbro, Ash.
He’s a quick-witted, nerd-boy genius who’s always there to help a friend cram for a test or capture bugs for me when they invade my space.

He’s my favorite person.

Making him happy gives me a rush…but for the first time, he’s keeping a secret from me.

When Ash cops to his Step Don’t—his new extracurricular of doing dirty things on camera—I’m confused.

He is too, so we work together to figure out why this excites him so much.

In places we’re likely to get caught.

After all, what’s a little exhibitionism between stepbros?

I didn’t even realize I could be into guys—or be so intoxicated by these new experiences—but exploring my bisexuality with Ash is the best thing that’s ever happened to me.

And with each touch, each time we up the stakes, I discover I want more than just Ash’s body.

I want his heart too, even though that surely must be the biggest Step Don’t of all.

Start reading today!

FREE in Kindle Unlimited

Amazon: https://amzn.to/3QZSUff  

Add The Step Don’t to Goodreads: https://tinyurl.com/tsdgr  

For more information about Riley Hart and her books, visit her website: 

https://www.rileyhartwrites.com

For more information about Devon McCormack and his books, visit his website:

https://www.devonmccormack.com

Cerulean Chronicles Book 1: The House in the Cerulean Sea by TJ Klune

 

Cerulean Chronicles Book 1

A magical island. A dangerous task. A burning secret.

Linus Baker leads a quiet, solitary life. At forty, he lives in a tiny house with a devious cat and his old records. As a Case Worker at the Department in Charge Of Magical Youth, he spends his days overseeing the well-being of children in government-sanctioned orphanages.

When Linus is unexpectedly summoned by Extremely Upper Management he's given a curious and highly classified assignment: travel to Marsyas Island Orphanage, where six dangerous children reside: a gnome, a sprite, a wyvern, an unidentifiable green blob, a were-Pomeranian, and the Antichrist. Linus must set aside his fears and determine whether or not they’re likely to bring about the end of days.

But the children aren’t the only secret the island keeps. Their caretaker is the charming and enigmatic Arthur Parnassus, who will do anything to keep his wards safe. As Arthur and Linus grow closer, long-held secrets are exposed, and Linus must make a choice: destroy a home or watch the world burn.

An enchanting story, masterfully told, The House in the Cerulean Sea is about the profound experience of discovering an unlikely family in an unexpected place—and realizing that family is yours.

https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/45047384-the-house-in-the-cerulean-sea

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My Review: 5/5 Stars

Linus’s job as a caseworker for the Department in Charge of Magical Youth is very important to him. He is stickler for the rules and knows that the most important part of his job is to make sure the magical children in these orphanages are safe. Even though he worries about getting to attached to those he meets, he knows he has to remain impartial. And it is because of that he is summoned by the Extremely Upper Management to take on a highly classified case. This case is unlike any other he has had before. All the children in this residence are considered highly dangerous and their caretaker is a bit of a mystery. Linus realizes quickly that he was not prepared nor given the proper information. A month. He has a month to determine that these kids are being taken care of properly and that Upper management has nothing to worry about. Though Linus can’t help but feel they are looking for an excuse to shut this home down. But the longer Linus stays and gets to know this house filled with extraordinary people, the more he begins to open his eyes to a life so much richer than what he had. I adored this story. I loved Linus’s character development. How he was slowly opening up to a life full of color. Something he didn’t really have or allow himself to have. And I love how important all these magical children are. Upper management may have expected him to follow their hopes to find an excuse to shut this down but Linus is his own person who’s good heart will always lead him right. I loved the blooming romance between Arthur and Linus. And all the kids were a hoot! You will never be bored with this group. So happy there is a book two because I am not ready to leave this world just yet!