Christmas Falls Season 2 Book 1: The Snuggle is Real by DJ Jamison

 

Christmas Falls Season 2 Book 1

I never saw this Christmas gift coming...

When my ex-wife lands in rehab, I get a surprise for the holidays. A 7-year-old girl who's got no place to go. I love my former stepdaughter like she's my own, but I have no idea how to give her everything she needs.

In a holiday-crazed town like Christmas Falls, it seems inevitable I'll let her down.

Unless I finally let go of my pride an accept help from the new director of the Holiday Hope Foundation. Mason West is eager to lend support however he can. And when I let him, he goes above and beyond.

For Charlie's sake. Not mine. Even if I maybe, kind of, wish that it was for me.

I've never been into men before, but Mason is so sweet, so giving, so...perfectly sized to snuggle in against my holiday sweater. Maybe if I can figure out what all this means, I can gain more than a daughter for the holidays.

Maybe I can keep the gift I’ve always wanted most—a family of my own.

Christmas Falls: Season 2 revisits a small town that thrives on enough holiday charm to rival any Hallmark movie. It's a multi-author M/M romance series.

https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/217335500-the-snuggle-is-real#SocialReviews

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My Review: 5/5 Stars

Back in Christmas Falls and it was a greta place to start! I was looking forward to Mason’s story after briefly meeting him in DJ Jamison’s Swallow Cove series. Mason has moved to Christmas Falls as the director of the Holiday Hope Foundation. He loves being able to help those in need especially around the holidays. Though he has to admit to himself that he is a bit lonely since his family is so far. But he won’t remain that way for long after he meets Ford. Ford has kept to himself for the most part. He is doing the best he can to support himself and help his elderly neighbor. But he next expects a phone call from a lawyer about his ex-wife and her daughter. His ex wife is heading to rehab and needs him to take care of her daughter Charlie. Charlie was like a daughter to Ford in everything but blood, but had no say in her life when they divorced. Now he has a chance to be a dad to her and he’ll hold tight as long as he can. But making Charlie’s Christmas wishes come true is tricky when you are struggling with money. And though he doesn’t want to take the help that Mason offers, he’ll suck up his pride for her. This beginning a budding friendship between the two. And even more when Ford realizes that for the first time in his life, he is attracted to a guy. How can he not with sweet adorable Mason? Mason knows he is in trouble the moment he meets Ford, but could there be something between them? I loved this story! It was the perfect one to kick off this season of Christmas Falls. It was fun and cute and the romance so sweet. You definitely don’t want to miss this one!

I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.

Holidating by Sarina Bowen

24-time USA Today bestseller Sarina Bowen's first holiday collection! Enjoy three complete holiday romances from Sarina Bowen. You’re getting:

Boyfriend: a complete holiday novel with a hilarious premise.

Rent a boyfriend for the holiday. For $25, I will be your Thanksgiving date. I will show up in a nice shirt, talk hockey with your dad and bring your mother flowers…

Everyone knows it’s a bad idea to introduce your hockey crush to your messed-up family. But Abbi really needs a date for Thanksgiving, even if she can’t say why. But when she tears Weston’s number off of a flyer, she accidentally entangles Moo U’s star defenseman in a ruse that neither of them can easily unwind.

Crossroads: a novella of missed connections, broken dreams and two hearts that just won’t quit. Damien Rossi drives a taxi but dreams of more. Specifically, he dreams about Nicolette Overland, his favorite client, a lonely beauty who lives in an actual mansion on a hill.

Nicolette can’t stop thinking about the hunky guy with the soulful brown eyes, either. She looks forward to every Christmas holiday when she knows he’ll be waiting for her at the airport. But when she screws up her courage to finally tell him how she feels, it might be too late…

Blonde Date: a novella of hot nerds, basketball and revenge. Katie is done with bad boys after some very poor treatment by a fraternity guy. Now, facing a holiday Greek event, she needs a date. A nice guy this time. Good thing a certain nerdy basketball player wants to audition for the role…

https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/218141325-holidating

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My Review: 5/5 Stars

I had read Boyfriend and Blonde Date back when they were already published. So I thought I would repost my reviews from then below. However, Crossroads is brand new! So I have a new review for that one below as well. All three are perfect for the holidays! And if you love Sarina Bowen, you definitely don’t want to miss these. 

Crossroads Review:

Damien and Nicolette have a 15 year love story in the making. Meeting when they were 19 and 20, Damien’s job was being a taxi driver in their small town in Vermont and picked up Nicolette to take her to the airport for college. There sparks the beginning of a friendship and a connection neither can shake. But it takes them a long time for anything between them to happen. Between college, the army, relationships, and more, these two never get the right moment. And as the years pass and they catch glimpses of one another, it is clear there is something there. But never are in a position to do something. I really adored these two and though it makes me sad for them to have taken so long to get together, their slow love story was still beautiful and they eventually get the happy ending they deserve!

Boyfriend Review: I read this back on September 27, 2021

When Moo U Hockey series ended, I was so glad to hear that Weston and Abbi were getting a full-length novel! For those who have been with the series from the beginning, Weston and Abbi had a novella that kicked off the Moo U Hockey world. Their story was short and sweet. The beginnings of their potential relationship. But now we get the full story. That novella was in this book, but a lot more information was added and it continued past where that novella left off. And I gotta say, I'm super glad it did! Weston and Abbi are such great characters and when we first met them I definitely wanted to know more. So Abbi is a waitress at a popular wing place the hockey team goes to a lot. She has always had a crush on Weston but he is known as being a guy that is basically allergic to relationships. Plus with her intense work and school hours, Abbi really has never had time to do anything fun. She has to work hard to finish off school and get a job so that she can afford to live on her own. Her own family is her step-father and his new wife and the creepy step-step brother. Her mom died a few years earlier and she never knew her dad. But when Weston posts an ad about offering to be a fake boyfriend for someone on Thanksgiving, she takes it. Not just because of her crush for Weston, but she needs a buffer against the jerk step-step brother. Weston has been avoiding his own home for holidays since his parents split. The anger there is just not worth it and has made him sworn off relationships. But when Abbi messages him with an offer for Thanksgiving, he takes it. And he is glad because he realizes Abbi is the attractive waitress he likes. Their fake relationship turns to real friendship over time. To the point where Weston asks Abbi to be his fake date for Christmas. Eventually the two realize they could have something a bit more real. But the official relationship? Well, it'll take a bit before the two of them will admit they want something more. Loved their story! I couldn't put it down. Their chemistry was fantastic. The humor as always is great in Sarina's books and you just can't help but love the characters she creates. Such a great addition to this series. And again, so glad she gave them a full story!

Blonde Date Review: I read this back on June 26, 2020. Here was my review from then!

I loved this novella! It was such a cute and fun story about Katie and Andrew. Both of whom you meet in The Year We Hid Away. Now we get a story with their point of view and their story. And both of them are adorable. You learn about Katie asking Andrew to be her date in the previous book and now we get to see how it went. At first Katie is worried about running into her ex at the party, but after confessing an embarrassing secret with Andrew, he surprises her and turns the night into a fun one. As they get to know one another and enjoy their date, they realize that something is definitely sparking between the two of them. A really cute story about two characters that I definitely wanted to learn more about after meeting them. If you liked the books so far in the series, make sure you don't skip this one! 

I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.

Austin Troopers Book 6: Rocking the Receiver by Hope Irving

 

Austin Troopers Book 6

In another lifetime, he’d totally be my type.


I’m a musician and won’t risk my shot at making it big by coming out publicly… yet. Only my mother and the woman who poses as my girlfriend know. I haven’t confided in my best friend of fifteen years, but his much younger brother, Elliot, suspects. I refuse to allow the French brat’s obsession with me to topple the walls I’ve erected to protect my secrets.

Of course, Elliot wouldn’t out me, and my lips are sealed. I’m the only one he told. The only one he claims to want. The only one he trusts to punch  his V-card before starting college in the US. I refuse to rock his world; he’s way off-limits.

While he works to pursue his dream of playing for his favorite NFL team, the Austin Troopers, my music draws me closer to him… Then tragedy strikes. Elliot turns out to be a surprisingly solid shoulder to lean on.

But there’s too much at stake to cave or reveal unspoken truths now. Our safe closet. Our age gap. Our public careers… And most of all, my friendship with his clueless brother.

Is a potential relationship worth the risk?

Rocking the Receiver is a contemporary MM sports romance and is part of The Austin Troopersshared world. It's a story about first times, fame, and two stubborn redheads who have to figure out their issues to find their HEA.

https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/203658345-rocking-the-receiver

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My Review: 3/5 Stars

Elliot and Rupert’s story takes place over the years. Starting when Elliot is 17 and is determined to make his brother’s best friend realize that they are meant to be. He can feel it. And so he spends the next amount of years trying to prove just that. Elliot heads to college in Texas on a football scholarship in the hopes of one day playing for the NFL and Rupert is killing it at his music career. Rupert worries about their ten year age gap, but he can feel the connection too. But he’ll fight it believing that Elliot will find someone better for him. But they end up texting and talking and seeing one another as much as they can. Growing closer as the world around them is in the dark about their sexual orientations. Neither are ready to come out, but this thing between them is too important. And when a tragedy strikes, Elliot is there for Rupert in all the ways that matter. They are simply stronger together and will fight to be by one another’s side. Because in the end, they know they are both worth it to one another.

I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.

Northern Roots Atlantic Book 1: Tide Over by Eve Holmes

 

Northern Roots Atlantic Book 1

The storm will always pass…

Desperate to escape his pain, Liam Fraser returns to his home province of Nova Scotia—but not to the place he once called home. Instead, he finds himself in Torrin Cove, a tiny, remote fishing village that seems like the perfect place to hide from the painful memories he can’t outrun.

In this quiet town, he meets Theo MacKinnon, a lobster fisherman who has spent his entire life following a path that has been laid out for him. On the surface, Theo’s life may seem steady and certain, but beneath it all he feels trapped, hiding a part of himself he’s never fully understood.

Together, they find the quiet comfort they’ve been seeking. As they lean on each other to navigate the stormy waters of grief, guilt, and pain, they begin to heal. Their connection grows as steady as the rising tide, and in the stillness of their shared moments, they discover the strength and courage to face the truths they’ve been avoiding and embrace the lives they’ve been too afraid to claim.

Amidst their storms, they become each other’s safe harbours.

And learn that the path to healing doesn’t need to be walked alone.

Tide Over is a standalone MM romance with an HEA, and deals with themes of grief and loss.

Books in this series do not need to be read in order.

https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/220172969-tide-over

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My Review: 5/5 Stars

This story was so good! I could not put it down. Get ready for a lot of feelings because this one hits you left and right with it. Liam hasn’t been doing well. After experiencing a loss he just can’t seem to move on from, he ends up driving far enough away and finds himself in Torrin Cove. A place remote and quiet and right beside the ocean. And it is where he finds Theo. Feeling like there is a connection and a sense of home here so far away from everyone and everything, he finds himself accepting Theo’s offer to move in to his spare room. Theo doesn’t know what compels him to offer his home to a stranger but there is some connection he can’t deny. Theo has had his share of losses and does what he can to keep himself busy to cope. And there is a part of him that he almost forgot about until Liam arrives. These two simply need one another. They understand one another in ways not many would. And it isn’t long until they realize this connection they have can be so much more. I adored how these two fell in love and started their healing journeys together. They’ve been through so much and deserve to be happy. Such a great story! I was hooked right from the beginning. You definitely don’t want to miss this one!

I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.

Pushing the Limits Next Generation Book 1: Risking It All by Katie McGarry

 

Pushing the Limits Next Generation Book 1

From Award Winning, Critically Acclaimed Author Katie McGarry comes the Next Generation of Pushing the Limits characters.

Her life has been shattered. His life was never whole. Can one summer change everything?

After a violent carjacking left her bleeding in the street, Macie Hutchins fears she’ll never be the same. She’s not the girl she once was—even if she puts up a good front.

Head down, she tries to survive the sweltering summer—and group therapy sessions—with secrets intact and scars hidden. Both those on the outside and inside.

But Relic Aslanov has always been trouble. Complicated trouble. Dangerous trouble. And his presence in therapy is making Macie’s plan to lie low and cope on her own trickier than her life has already become.

She can’t seem to hide from him, though. And he can’t seem to stay away from her—even when the long-standing rivalry between their families should keep them apart.

But as the summer simmers on, so do the looks, the touches—and the kisses that were never supposed to happen.

As things heat up between Macie and Relic, her white-picket-fence world collides with his wrong-side-of-the-tracks hell, and the truth about the carjacking bubbles to the surface.

When the dust settles and the truth is revealed, will the risk they took be worth it? Or have their pasts already doomed their future?

Page-turning and emotional, Risking It All is perfect for readers looking 

Contemporary teen romance booksSteamy kissesFriends who become familyA thrilling journeyPushing the Limits and Nowhere But Here fansFans of the characters Echo Emerson and Noah Hutchins from Pushing the Limits

https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/218361104-risking-it-all

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My Review: 5/5 Stars

It has been a very long time since I have read a Pushing the Limits book. And now this author is back with the next generation and it was so good! I’m so glad to be back in this world and now see favorite characters grown up and their kids are now getting stories. If you haven’t read the Pushing the Limits series, I recommend you do! It will be worth it to have all the backstory. But this story follows the daughter of Echo and Noah, Macie. Months ago, Macie faced a violent carjacking gone wrong and nearly died. She hasn’t been the same since. Fear has taken over her and no matter how many times asked, she can’t tell anyone what happened that night. Her body physically rejects it and she feels like she is losing herself more and more every day. All she wants is to go back to how she was before and not make her parents and family so worried. She can’t even drive a car anymore without fear paralyzing her. But things start to change when she begins to talk to Relic. They both attend a group therapy for different reasons and while the group has been silent for the most part, things are about to change for them. Relic is there because he stole $5 from a car and was caught. He has a record now and the thing is, he did it on purpose. It’s just him and his sisters. Their dad has just returned from prison and he was part of a gang. A gang that is putting pressure on Relic to join. But Relic refuses. He knows he is desperate for money and protection but he can’t be like his dad. He can’t join because he knows his sisters will still be in danger. Being around Macie, makes him feel like he is away from all that. The two of them develop a friendship that slowly becomes so much more between them. And they end up helping each other and even their new friends from group therapy, the more they spend time together. But things are never simple. Relic has to find a way to protect his sisters and Macie’s attackers are still out there. Together, can they overcome it all? I really adored this book. It was everything I loved from the previous series and it was just so fun being back in this world. We met such great characters and I really hope we see more of them and see more books! I’m definitely looking forward to where this series takes us. 

Forging Silver Into Stars Book 2: Carving Shadows into Gold by Brigid Kemmerer

 

Forging Silver Into Stars Book 2

Dangerous magic. Fateful choices. Broken promises. The spellbinding series by New York Times bestselling author Brigid Kemmerer continues.

The King's Courier Tycho has made a treacherous bargain. Now beholden to the magical scraver who saved King Gray's life, one false move could end everything.

Jax escaped his life in Briarlock and traveled with Tycho to Emberfall. But life outside his small village brings unexpected challenges--and unlikely adversaries.

After years of hating the royal family and their magic, Callyn never expected to be at the Queen's side, with magic on her fingertips. But at the royal court, she can't trust anyone--including the man she thought she loved.

Cast apart, Tycho, Jax, and Callyn must learn to wield the magic that is dividing their kingdom. As the magical scravers attack from the north and the king's rivals gain strength, time is running out.

War is looming. Love is tested. And magic could be the only answer. . .

https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/211365763-carving-shadows-into-gold

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My Review: 5/5 Stars

Got an ARC of this book and devoured it in a day. SO good! And now my wait for the next one is even longer. But I’ve been so excited for this book after the previous one and it was fantastic! The story still follows Tycho, Jax, and Callyn and lot goes down. Tycho and Jax make it to Emberfall just for Tycho to be ordered back to warn King Grey of the attacks that followed them there. Though he doesn’t want to leave Jax, he knows he has no choice. And returning proves to just hurt him more when it comes to Grey and everything that is going on. Jax hates that Tycho has to leave but he knows he must. In the meantime he will do his best with working at Prince Rhen’s forge and learning the language. He’ll work hard to earn his place even with the discord of those who view him as the enemy. But he misses Tycho as much as Tycho misses him. Then Callyn is facing her own challenges watching Princess Sinna. She finds herself aiding the queen when she can and it puts her back by Aleks who she believes betrayed her. So much is going on for these three and those they care about. And it gets harder and harder every day to figure out who is right and who is wrong and what the clear path to peace is. I loved being back in this world and where the story ended made me desperate for the next one. I really hope we won’t have as long a wait for the next book in this series!

I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.

Legacy Mechanics Book 2: It’s Complicated by Willow Dixon

Legacy Mechanics Book 2

 

Isaac

For three years Jamie has been my best friend, my roommate, and my wingman. We do everything together, and we live by one simple work hard and play harder. Everything was perfect until what was supposed to be a meaningless threesome between friends changes everything.

Now I can’t stop thinking about that night, and how I couldn’t take my eyes off him. I want Jamie, even if I don’t understand why. We might both be straight, but I can’t ignore the pull between us.

I don’t want to risk losing him, but I can’t keep pretending like nothing happened. And the more time that passes, the more I wonder if he feels the shift between us too.

Jamie

Isaac isn’t just my best friend and roommate, he’s the person I trust most in the world. We’ve been inseparable for three years, and we’re rock solid. Then a mutual ex of ours suggests we have a threesome, and what should have been a fun experiment between friends sends my life into a tailspin.

Now I’m seeing Isaac in a new light. I want him, and I don’t understand why. I try to ignore it so I don’t risk ruining the best friendship I’ve ever had, but that night awakened something in me, and the more time that passes, the more I think it also awakened something in him.

We're both straight, but that doesn’t stop me from picturing my best friend on his knees for me. Or remembering how he looks when he comes.

Isaac and Jamie’s story is a double bi-awakening, best-friends-to-lovers romance featuring two roommates who might not be as straight as they thought. You can expect found family, best friend shenanigans, hurt/comfort, big Golden Retriever energy, some exhibitionism, lots of heat, tons of steam, and all the feels as these two clueless besties realize that sometimes what you want is exactly what you need. It is the second book in the exciting new Legacy Mechanics series but can be read as a standalone. ***Please note that the threesome happens prior to the start of the book and is completely off page***

https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/218458705-it-s-complicated

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My Review: 5/5 Stars

Isaac and Jamie have been best friends and roommates for over three years now. But lately something has been shifting between the two of them. And it takes a hook up together with their ex to really put it into perspective. Like how they wished it was just the two of them. Now things are awkward and both are afraid to acknowledge their feelings about it in fear of ruining their friendship. But the chemistry and friendship between them is too strong. And it’s only a matter of time until they admit the truth and explore this new thing between them. And when they do, it will change everything. I loved Isaac and Jamie. It is clear how close those two are and it’s wild how they weren’t more than friends since they’ve known one another. Once they cross the line of friendship, they are even better and stronger together. I really loved watching these best friends not even fall in love but realize that they’ve been in love with one another all this time. I also loved seeing some familiar faces as well as getting more info on others who work with Isaac. And I’m really excited for the next book! 

I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.

Caraval Book 3.5: Spectacular by Stephanie Garber

 

Caraval Book 3.5

Welcome, welcome back to the mysteriously enchanting world of CARAVAL! Return to the legendary magic and the whimsical wonder with this beautifully illustrated holiday novella.

Snowflakes are falling.

Invitations are arriving.

And holiday magic is swirling in the capital city of the Meridian Empire.

It’s Great Holiday Eve Eve. Scarlett Dragna is planning a spectacular Holiday celebration for the city. Donatella is searching for the perfect gift. Julian is looking ridiculously handsome in green. And Legend . . .

Well, sadly Legend is not fond of the Great Holiday. Tella is hoping her perfect gift will change his mind. Unfortunately, she hasn’t found this perfect gift just yet. But it is Great Holiday Eve Eve . . . surely there’s some holiday magic swirling around.

Welcome, welcome back to the world of Caraval, where even holidays are not as they seem.

Set after Stephanie Garber's #1 NEW YORK TIMES bestselling Caraval series, this delightful novella will take readers on the ultimate holiday adventure full of clockwork boys, poisoned candy, impish snow globes, merriment, and―if Tella gets her way―love.

Gorgeously illustrated by Rosie Thorns, SPECTACULAR is the perfect edition for collectors, readers, dreamers, and lovers of holiday magic.

https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/203578793-spectacular

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My Review: 5/5 Stars

The world of Caraval is a favorite of mine. You just never know what is going to happen in this world and the magic that goes with it. In this holiday novella, we follow Tella as she searches for the perfect gift for Legend. A little worried about their relationship and Legend’s lack of holiday spirit, she hopes she can find the perfect present to show how much she loves him. But with Tella, trouble always seems to find her first. This was a fun story filled with beautiful illustrations. Perfect for the holidays and for those who have been missing Scarlett, Julian, Tella, and Legend. There is always magic and a little mystery when it comes to these four and this novella didn’t disappoint! 

Exiled Omegas Book 2: Lost Wolf by Tessa Kane

 

Exiled Omegas Book 2

Once upon a time I had a name…

For years, my life has been a nightmare. Trapped in a lab where humans use me as a test subject, they’ve stolen everything from me—including my memories. A careless mistake gives me the opportunity to escape, but the world outside is harsh and unfamiliar.

Lost and alone, I stumble into the path of an Alpha who turns out to be my fated mate. Luke quickly becomes my anchor in the whirlwind of uncertainty and, despite my instinctual fear of alphas, he’s safety, pack, and home.

But I don’t get to enjoy my newfound happiness for long.

Forced to flee when the humans track me down, we embark on a road trip to find the truth about my past. As we search for answers, we discover our fates are more intertwined than we imagined and the secrets we uncover threaten to tear us apart.

If Luke and I hope to build a future together, we have to confront the mysteries of our past—even if that means risking the very thing we’re fighting for.

Lost Wolf is an MM fated mates shifter romance set in a world where mpreg is possible (but does not occur on page in this book). It is the second book in the Exiled Omegas series and features an amnesiac omega who has no past and the devoted Alpha who becomes his future.

https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/199822061-lost-wolf?from_search=true&from_srp=true&qid=1cEM0JXaEA&rank=2

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My Review: 4/5 Stars

Ollie’s memories are fractured. All he knows is that he has been in his wolf form for a long time and the chances of him escaping that lab from hell is slim. But then a mistake is made and he finds his opportunity. He runs free of his cage but he is weak and soon is injured and blacks out. In and out of consciousness, he never expects to wake up to his fated mate. Feeling safe for the first time in a very long time, Ollie hopes he can regain his memories and be away from the bad alongside Luke. When Luke gets a call about a shifter stuck in his wolf form, he never expects the wolf to be his fated mate. But once he knows Ollie is his, he isn’t letting himself go. Even when Ollie is an omega too and there are still others out there against male omegas. He’ll protect Ollie and figure out where he came from and how he ended up in the lab filled with humans. But the answers they find may not be anything expected or wanted. I really enjoyed Ollie and Luke’s story. It was fun being back in this world and watching these two find their happy ending after everything they have endured. And we got to see some familiar faces from book one as well! It’s for sure an interesting world and storyline we have going on and I am looking forward to reading the next book! 

Front Range University Book 3: Beautifully Conflicted by Michele Lenard

 

Front Range University Book 3

Competition is my love language.

The first time I saw Bennet Armstrong’s baby blues staring up at me from underneath his helmet, stunned and confused that I’d tackled him, I was smitten.

So, I tackled him again. And again. Whether he had the ball or not, I’d take him down, just so I could have his eyes on me.

I thought we were connecting. He thought I was a poor sport. Needless to say, when we found ourselves on the same team years later, he was not a happy camper. It got even worse when Coach paired us together for our pre-season workouts, giving me a chance to stoke his competitive buttons, which I seem to do whether I intend to or not.

Bennet hates to lose, but there’s more to the fire in his eyes than a desire to beat me. He might not know it, but I do, and I’m determined to show him I’m right.

To do that, I have to bring him to his knees, and that reveals some wounds I didn’t know were there. Wounds that are so deep they blind him to the truth about himself, and us.

I should leave him in peace, and maybe I would if I didn’t know in my soul that he’s supposed to be mine. Now I just need to convince him, and what better way to do that than by making him want to win me?

**Beautifully Conflicted is a high-heat MM romance between two rivals turned lovers. It’s a medium angst story that includes sports, hurt/comfort situations, and a bi-awakening with lots of humor and spice. This is book three in a series of interconnected standalones.

https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/220205329-beautifully-conflicted

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My Review: 5/5 Stars

Bennet and Damien have always been rivals on the football field since they were kids. Or at least that is how Bennet interpreted it. Truth is, Damien has always had feelings for him and love the competitiveness between them that pushed them to make them better players. And what Damien thought was flirting in their banter, well, for Bennet, not so much. When Damien transfers to Front Range, they are finally on the same team. And Damien begins to wonder if they can finally be friends and maybe more if he can figure out if Bennet likes him back. For Bennet, he thinks it is the end of the world and no one seems to see what he does when it comes to Damien. It takes a bit but Bennet slowly figures out Damien and who he is and all his quirks. And maybe, he wasn’t actually trying to antagonize him, but he was genuinely trying to be nice and flirt. But there comes another problem with that. Bennet has always pushed the side of him that could have been interested in guys. With how he grew up, he knew it would not be well received and he was never willing to risk his family and his potential career in the NFL for the one guy that had the potential of making him forget all of that. So he’ll push away…but that can only last for so long. I really loved Damien, he was just so sweet and genuine. Bennet it took a bit for me to warm up to but the more we got to know him, the more you realize exactly what his state of mind is and understand him a bit more. And I loved him more when he finally was able to just be himself and say what and who he wanted. It was a hard journey for both of them but a very sweet ending! Loving this series and I can’t wait for more.

Sins of the Zodiac Book 1: Never Keep by Caroline Peckham & Susanne Valenti

 

Sins of the Zodiac Book 1

The dragons are lost.

The elements are at war. Enlisting isn’t optional.

And I’m falling for a man who wants me dead.

I’m a wielder of hearts and summoner of corruption. Heir to nothing and born to a fool in the wrong damn month.

But I’m also one of only two Fae in this divided land of hellions who might be starting to see through the lies we’ve swallowed for so long.

In the year we turn twenty-one, conscripts from across the warring nations of air, fire, earth and water are sent to Never Keep – the only place in our besieged continent where our magic can be Awakened.

But something is wrong inside Never Keep. Something which might extend far beyond the reaches of this desolate fortress. Within the gothic walls of this frigid castle in the snow, we’re left to hold our own against the brutal Fae from the opposing lands.

The Reapers are merciless. The Royals are lying. The Werewolves run rampant and Vampires roam the wastelands in bloodthirsty covens. But even though death lurks in every shadow of the Keep, it’s the least of my worries.

I’m delving into secrets the stars don’t want me uncovering, making alliances with Fae born to be my enemy, falling for a sinner while promising my heart to a different heathen and somewhere amid it all, I’m supposed to win a war.

I thought the only thing I had to do was survive my magical instruction.

Turns out, fate doesn’t favour the wicked.

https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/210966754-never-keep

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My Review: 5/5 Stars

Back in the world of Solaria but this time to a land far beyond them. Where the rules are a bit different. Here, we have a land split into four nations based on their elements. And they have been at war for a very long time. The only time a sort of truce appears is if you are at Never Keep. A place led by the Reapers and where your magic is awakened and you spend time learning how to wield it for six months before you are sent home once more and most likely back into the war. The story follows Everest and Vesper. Everest is on the water element side. But her life has been anything but easy. Rejected by her father who is the leader, she has fought every day to survive and has been tormented. Her mother and best friend were the only ones to care for her. But when her mother dies in an attack that scarred Everest, she swears to find the one from fire and end him. Vesper has been cursed in her own way for the air element nation. But she has clawed her way up bit by bit. Fighting to stand and be the monster for one of the princes. She is known as the Sky Witch throughout because of her affinity to blood magic in addition to her Order gifts as a Succubus. When Everest and Vesper make it to the Never Keep, they learn quickly that things aren’t what they appear. There is more going on. And these two are sick of the lies and betrayals and scraping for a place in their worlds. They’ll have a temporary alliance as to find out the secrets of the Reapers and outside of that, they each have their own journeys and issues to deal with. 

So much going on in this story! And it just the beginning. But expect everything you know about a Zodiac book from the Twisted Sisters. Because we got the humor, the magic, adventure, romance, and a whole lot of betrayals and secrets. And of course a cliffhanger that will have you demanding the next book. It was so interesting to be in a Zodiac world book but see how the rules are different or things you thought they would know but don’t. There was a lot of familiar and a lot of not. But I loved it all. And I can’t wait to see where this series takes us!

Offsides Book 3: Between the Pipes by JJ Mulder

 

Offsides Book 3

Nico Mackenzie is angry and argumentative— in every way, he is the exact opposite of NHL goaltender Anthony Lawson. Thrown together for a summer of coaching college hockey at South Carolina University, Anthony makes every effort to be friendly; Nico, on the other hand, seems intent on being infuriating and keeping the other man at arm’s length.

When a causal relationship forms between the pair, they form an unsteady truce. The summer is finite, however, and when it comes to an end a decision has to be do they end things as they are or try for more?

https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/207670984-between-the-pipes

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My Review: 5/5 Stars

Anthony has watched his two best friends find the love of their lives and he begins to wonder if that is in the cards for him. He’s tired of the hook up life and wouldn’t mind actually finding a partner. He just doesn’t expect that the first time he is attracted to a man and want to date him is Nico. Surly and stubborn and constantly picking fights with one another and yet Anthony is smitten. Nico has a bit of a right to keep his distance. His hockey career ending injury that left him essentially blind has taken its toll on him. He works hard to try and not let anyone notice is disability but it isn’t easy when he bumps into things or when he gets constant migraines. So yeah, he is a bit on the cranky side. And here comes Anthony pushing all his buttons as they work together for the summer hockey program at SCU. Eventually they give in to their attraction but there are some ground rules. Nico just wants casual and he isn’t ready to come out for the world to see. Though Anthony really wants to date Nico, in secret or not, he gives in knowing anytime with Nico is worth the heartache that will surely follow. Because I read SCU before Offsides, it was nice to get the background info on these two after seeing them in that series. I really enjoyed their story though I felt for Anthony as he was clearly falling hard for Nico but Nico was still too wary to take a chance and try to keep his distance. Was so glad when we reached their happy ending. I really loved this series so far and I’m glad to see there is more to come!

Offsides Book 2: Square to the Puck by JJ Mulder

 

Offsides Book 2

Corwin Sanhover could almost convince himself that the night six years ago didn’t happen. But when Nigel St. James is traded to South Carolina, it becomes a lot harder to keep their history in the past.

Nigel St. James can’t imagine a team he’d like to play for less than South Carolina, and he knows Corwin probably feels the same. But when things between them become friendly, it’s clear that they both still want each other now, the same as they did back then. Is it possible to start fresh and build a relationship, or are some things—and people—better left in the past?

https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/204946295-square-to-the-puck

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My Review: 5/5 Stars

Corwin has been hiding who he is for a long time. And you can’t blame him considering how his father reacted to realizing his son liked men. Corwin learned young to never let anyone in on that side of him. And he would never risk it. But at eighteen he took a risk…though he panicked and ran. For six years he thought he could forget it. But then Nigel is traded to his team and Corwin knows he is in trouble. Because the feelings that Nigel stirred for him haven’t gone away with time. And this time, he has no where to run. Nigel has spent the last six years feeling guilty over what happened between him and Corwin. He just wants a chance to apologize. When they finally clear the air, they begin to become friends. But it is clear that they could never be just friends. And when Corwin takes the small step to be something more, Nigel is so patient. Because what he wants more than anything is just to be with Corwin in any shape or form. He knew back then and he knows now, that Corwin could easily be his if he let him. I really loved these two. Corwin has always been this strong figure and it was nice to see just how vulnerable he is. And for him to find someone that could slowly break him out of his shell. He deserves happiness and he is finally letting himself have it. And Nigel is so used to not belonging anywhere and being traded all the time, but with Corwin he has finally found a home. Adored these two! And I can’t wait to jump into the next one.

Offsides Book 1: Changing the Game by JJ Mulder

 

Offsides Book 1

Former college hockey player, Sam Jameson, is coming off of a bad summer. After the derailment of his hockey dreams, and a nasty breakup with his girlfriend, he's ready to put his head down and work hard for the South Carolina NHL team. He doesn't count on Troy Nichols, though.

Troy, star forward for the team, is unexpected in more ways than one. And when sparks fly between the pair, there seems little sense in holding back. Can they make it work, or is this little more than a rebound?

https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/209693590-changing-the-game

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My Review: 5/5 Stars

Sam hasn’t had a great summer. His dream of playing professional hockey is gone and he had a bad break up with his ex-girlfriend. Who won’t take the hint that him ignoring her calls means he doesn’t want to talk to her. So he heads to South Carolina on an internship to work for their NHL team in hopes of a fresh start. But he could never imagine the feelings that spark when he mets Troy. He has never been attracted to a guy before, but there is something so special and sweet about Troy that draws Sam to him. And it’s only a matter of time before he can keep that kind of feeling in. Troy is a sweet hockey player who has an endless amount of energy. He hasn’t been lucky in love and doesn’t love the hook up life. But when he meets Sam, he is smitten. So smitten, he thinks it is a good idea to offer Sam his spare bedroom so that Sam doesn’t have to live out of a hotel. Being roommates with Sam is great but the sparks between them are flying more and more. And Troy can’t help but wonder if Sam feels it too. These two were so adorable! I loved how easily Sam accepted this part of himself. It was so natural to him because it was exactly that. He liked Troy and wanted to be with him. Simple as that. Troy was sweet and patient and endlessly blushing. And of course the dimples! Sam knew he had no chance but to just fall. Really fun and sweet story. Loved all these characters and I am looking forward to the next book.