Game Changers Book 2: Heated Rivalry by Rachel Reid

Game Changers Book 2

Nothing interferes with pro hockey star Shane Hollander’s game.

Now that he’s captain of the Montreal Voyageurs, he won’t let anything jeopardize that—definitely not the sexy rival he loves to hate.

Boston Bears captain Ilya Rozanov is everything Shane’s not. The self-proclaimed king of the ice, he’s as cocky as he is talented. No one can beat him—except Shane. Publicly, they’re enemies. Privately, they can’t stop touching each other. 

The smart thing to do? Walk away, once a few secret hookups turn into a struggle to keep their relationship out of the press. The truth could ruin them both. But for Shane and Ilya, secrecy is soon no longer an option…

https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/220966494-heated-rivalry

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My Review: 4/5 Stars

I’m usually a reader who likes to read a series in order. But with the hype of this particular book having a show that literally just came out and a sequel book that is the last in the series… yeah, I’m going to be jumping around just a bit. I’ve been seeing this story blow up and I decided I must check it out before I watch the show! And it was actually pretty great. I loved a good mm hockey romance, and this didn’t disappoint. Shane and Ilya have known one another since their rookie year. And we see exactly how that has played out for about ten years. The media has put them as rivals on the ice. They’re the best and they continue to prove it every time they are on the ice. But off the ice? There is a tension between them. One they end up exploring and continue to do so for many years until finally… something finally changes. How can it not? It’s clear these two feel something for one another but with the world they are currently in, change doesn’t seem to be happening much. And being the first is pretty scary. But eventually, they may just be brave enough to take a leap of faith. I really loved getting to know these two! Their banter was a lot of fun and I loved seeing them vulnerable with one another. It took them so long to figure out who they were as people and who they were to one another and then what to do with that. But clearly they felt something strong if they couldn’t shake one another off after so many years. I can’t wait to see how their story continues in their next book. And I can’t wait to see them translated to a tv show! I have a feeling it’s gonna be great! I also can’t wait to read the rest of this series too!

Alchemy of Secrets by Stephanie Garber

 

It starts with a class in an old movie theater.

Folklore 517: Local Legends and Urban Myths, taught by a woman called the Professor. Most students believe the Professor’s stories are just fiction, but Holland St. James has always been convinced that magic is real. When she tracks down a local legend named the Watch Man, who can supposedly tell you when you’ll die, the world finally makes sense. Except that the Watch Man tells her she will die at midnight tomorrow unless she finds an ancient object called the Alchemical Heart.

With the clock ticking, Holland is pulled deeper into this magical world in the heart of Los Angeles—and into the path of a magnetic stranger. Everything about him feels like a bad idea, but he promises Holland that her sister sent him to protect her. As they chase clues and stories that take them closer to the Alchemical Heart, Holland realizes everyone in this intoxicating new world is lying to her, even this stranger. And if she can’t figure out whom to trust, not even the Alchemical Heart will save her.

https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/222706197-alchemy-of-secrets

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My Review: 4/5 Stars

Holland has always been in love with stories and magic. And after taking a class in college about local legends and myths, it’s only convinced her that magic is real. She’s even working on her thesis around this. The Professor of this special course tells these stories to her students with the condition they don’t tell anyone about it. And when Holland comes across a trail to one of those stories, she can’t help but follow it. This is how she meets the Watch Man. Who tells her that she will die at midnight the following day unless she finds a magical object called the Alchemical Heart. With the clock ticking, Holland races to find this heart and what it means. It leads her down the path of more magic than she can imagine. But with a few hiccups. Like two men rushing to her aid saying they’ve both been sent by her sister to protect her. It’s a battle of figuring out who to trust every time she meets someone on her path. Can she find what she is looking for in time? This was a really fun story! It’s this race against the clock as you try to figure the clues out with Holland. But also a game of tying to figure out who is actually on Holland’s side. Not gonna lie, I hit a point of wanting to shake her and tell her to trust no one cause it seems she may have been better off on her own! But we had some pretty interesting twists and turns and overall, I really enjoyed the story. And with the looks of a promise of a sequel, I’m very curious to see what story, and maybe even who’s story, could possibly be next. 

Saints & Sinner Books 2: Fever by Devon McCormack

 

Saints & Sinners Book 2

ALEXEI

Before I came to St. Lawrence University, I didn't believe in magic.

Now I'm desperate to get my hands on a spell, even at the expense of lying to my friends.

It's not something I'm proud of, but I have my reasons.

Enter the charming, carefree Matteo Baros, who—unfortunately for both of us—becomes suspicious of me.

I expect him to rat me out.

Instead, maybe because he's such a stand-up guy, he offers to help me with a spell.

Not just any spell—a sex spell.

Not really something two straight guys can manage easily, but we find a way, and what should've been a nightmare turns into a feverish night of passion.

But there are consequences for our actions.

The spell ignites a sequence of events neither of us could have anticipated, and as the intensity of this fever between us mounts, we find ourselves caught in a war between rival covens, battling sinister forces from another realm that threaten to wreak havoc upon our world.

https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/223662174-fever

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My Review: 4/5 Stars

Alexei didn’t believe in magic before coming to St. Lawrence University, but that has changed once he sees things that can’t be explained. What’s more, he needs magic right now if he is going to find answers he is desperately seeking. So he agrees to spy for a group called the Saints to find out what another group, the Sinners, are up to. But months of this, spying on those he would call his friends, and things not adding up, he can’t help but wonder if he is on the wrong side. So when he tries to press for some sort of answers if the Saints will get him answers and comes back with nothing, well it’s time to take matters into his own hands. He just didn’t expect Matteo to be watching him so closely. Or for Matteo to be the one who cares enough to help him. Matteo has noticed something off with Alexei more and more lately and just when he thinks he has figured it out, turns out he is pretty wrong. And what he sees is Alexei needing some help and his protective instincts kick in. He won’t stand by and let Alexei get hurt. Even if it means performing sort of sex spell together to do it. But one night sparks a sequence of events they never saw coming. This bigger than anything and they’ll have to figure out who to trust. Add in the fact that their connection may be way more than friends. Something they never thought could happen with them. So much to unpack in this story! And it leaves us definitely wanting more after that crazy ending. I liked getting to know Matteo and Alexei as they find their way to the Sinners’ group. Things are coming together but we still are left with so many questions! I can’t wait to see what happens next.

I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.

Longwood U Book 4: Just for Christmas by Crea Reitan

Longwood U Book 4

It’s only temporary holiday magic

Brent

Life has taught me not to get attached to anyone because they’ll only let you down but I can’t stop myself from falling in love with my roommate and frat brother the moment we meet. It’s been three years and not only do I secretly pine for him, but now he’s also my very best friend. My first real friend.

Nothing can possibly go wrong when I agree to be his fake boyfriend for the holidays, right? I know I’m putting my heart on the line but it’ll just be a bit of hand-holding. My heart can survive that…

Rafe

I know my mother will get off my back about settling down if I bring home a partner so I recruit my best friend into becoming my fake boyfriend. It’ll be fun, easy, and a great holiday without all the subtle hints from my parents.

One kiss under the mistletoe changes everything and the childhood make believe suddenly morphs into so much more. There’s only one problem - this arrangement is only for Christmas and then we’re back to being only friends when we return to school.

I didn’t plan to fall in love with Brent Mitchell… I don’t know what to do now that he’s acting like I don’t exist.

https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/240137042-just-for-christmas

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My Review: 5/5 Stars

Brent is used to spending the holidays alone. Kicked out of his home when he was seventeen for being gay, he hasn’t seen his parents since. He had an elderly aunt who took him in, but she is now in assisted living. And he has an ex-uncle who he speaks to on occasion. So for Christmas, he expects to do what he always does. Stay at the dorms. But his roommate and best friend have other plans for him. Rafe never realized Brent’s family situation. He feels like an awful friend for now only seeing that Brent avoided the subject and for good reason, but he is going to make it up to Brent now. He’ll bring Brent home for Christmas to be spoiled and loved by his very big family. And before they leave Rafe comes up with a bit of a crazy idea. His mom has been especially pushy about settling down and no matter how much Rafe tells her no, she won’t hear him. So he asks Brent to he fake boyfriend for the holidays. For Brent, it’s a bit of torture. Having a crush on his best friend for a long time but never realizing that Rafe’s sexuality could swing his way. So how in the world can he keep his crush in line? And when Rafe kisses Brent for the first time, he never expects the wake up call it gives him about his best friend. These two are about to have an interesting holiday. Loved this story! I loved that Brent could finally get that full experience of what it was like to have a family around him. And it was extra special that it was a family of someone he cared about so much. I also just loved that they kind of woke up to realize what was in front of them all along. It made their love story so much sweeter to go from friends to more. Even though they were unsure if they pretending or not as the holiday went on. A really great story all around! Longwood U is proving to be a favorite of mine and I can’t wait to see who’s story is next!

I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.

Inheritance Games Book 0.5: The Same Backward as Forward by Jennifer Lynn Barnes

Inheritance Games Book 0.5

Read her side of the story, then flip the book over to experience their love anew through his eyes in this novel that you can read backward or forward.

Hannah Rooney knows how to be invisible. At twenty, she keeps her head down and her eyes open, and so far, she’s managed to avoid being pulled into the dealings of her notorious criminal family. Hannah lives her life in countdown mode, biding her time in nursing school as she waits for her beloved sister, Kaylie, to turn eighteen so Hannah can get them both far, far away from Rockaway Watch and start a new life. 

Tobias Hawthorne II acts every inch the entitled heir that he is. As the only son of one of the country's richest men, there isn't a door that isn't open to him. Yet behind his razor sharp cheekbones and devil-may-care attitude, Toby is guarding a nest of deadly secrets and a fiery anger fierce enough to burn everything in his path.

Their lives collide in one tragic, stormy night, where an act of arson and nature leave Kaylie and two others dead and Toby just barely alive--with no memory of who he is. The fisherman who pulls him from the ocean enlists Hannah to help save the very person who she knows took away her sister. Fueled by her hatred, Hannah is determined to deny Toby's death wish by keeping him alive. He is the last person that she should ever develop feelings for, and she is the first thing he ever remembers seeing.

*Hannah’s side of the story was previously published as a novella in Games Untold.

https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/228646235-the-same-backward-as-forward

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My Review: 5/5 Stars

Toby and Hannah may not get a happily ever after with one another, but their love story is still worth telling. Read both sides of their love story in this latest addition to the Inheritance Games series! Hannah’s story we’ve already seen in Games Untold. We saw her pain and anger as she saved the boy who is part of the reason her sister is dead. She refuses to let him die and cares for him through the burns and the missing memories. All the while, they fall in love. And now we get Toby’s side. Toby who wakes to pain and agony and no memories. But he just sees her. The girl with eyes that hold everything he needs even though he doesn’t know it yet. And though he wants to give in to the pain and feel it no more, she won’t let him go. And in doing so, she makes him fall for her a little more each day. I loved reading his side of the story. We get a lot more about what was going on with him during that time and after and why some decisions to stay away were made. I will also say that I think this series should be read in publishing order. Toby’s story revealed some things that you will recognize after reading the later books, especially Glorious Rivals. Another great addition to this series that only makes it more interesting and puzzling. And I can’t wait to see where this series finally takes us as we come to the end.

Inheritance Games Book 6: Glorious Rivals by Jennifer Lynn Barnes

Inheritance Games Book 6

Millions, hearts, and lives are on the line in this heart-stopping sequel to The Grandest Game by #1 bestselling author Jennifer Lynn Barnes.

Seven players arrived on Hawthorne Island, each with their own secrets and motivations to win the Grandest Game. Millions are at stake, but so are hearts—and lives. The players now must race to win the game, solve myriad mysteries, and survive the twists and turns of Glorious Rivals. 

The stakes get higher, the game gets twistier, and everything heats up in this newest installment in the TikTok sensation Inheritance Games Saga.

https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/216635092-glorious-rivals

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My Review: 5/5 Stars

It’s amazing how with this series I pick up the latest book and then just don’t put it down. I have to read them in one sitting, no matter how long. We have returned to the Grandest Game and the stakes continue to get higher and higher. While we have a few player gone from the island, another, Gigi, has been kidnapped. Though no one seems to realize that just yet. The rest, Lyra, Grayson, Rohan, Savannah, and Brady continue to play. All have a reason to win and another reason to take someone out the running. The only one not looking to win is Grayson. And that’s because he is determined to keep Lyra safe. But turns out his family is still in danger and he needs some answers. Some from his brother who has been keeping quite a secret. In the story the game will finally end, but leave us with some big problems. As always, I love the puzzles in this series. It’s always fun to try to figure it out alongside the characters. Also, just when you get some answers to what is going on, a bunch of other things turn up that leave you with more questions. The series always keeps you on your toes, the characters are always interesting, and stakes just get higher. I can’t wait to see how everything finally ends! One more book to go and I think it’s going to be pretty insane. 

A Very Merry Anthology

 

My Review: 4/5 Stars

The Castle by Hannah McBride

This short holiday story was very cute! Kailah and Vane met when they were kids in foster care. Though they only got to know one another for a few months, they never forgot one another. Not even twenty years later when they are reunited. Stranded at Vane’s family hotel because of the snowstorm, they reconnect and realize that this connection between them could be so much more if they are brave enough to take it. A sweet holiday romance story! I ended up loving these two and wished it could have been a whole book! But their story was utterly very sweet and magical. A perfect way to celebrate the holidays!

Promises, Promises Book 0.5: Promised Adventure by Rye Cox

Promises, Promises Book 0.5

Wren is off on his next adventure, but a vehicle malfunction leaves him stranded outside the property of someone who might take him on the adventure of a lifetime.

This is a Promises, Promises short story prequel that takes place before the start of the series. You can obtain this short at no cost by signing up to Rye’s newsletter on release date.

This was previously published as part of A Safe Space Charity Anthology.

https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/234813436-promised-adventure

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My Review: 4/5 Stars

This was a fun short story prequel to the Promises, Promises series! We’ve seen Wren and Jordan in the series and knew they were together, but now we get to see how that happened! When Wren is on the way to his next adventure, his van breaks down leaving him stranded. Lucky for him, Jordan spots him on his way home and his house is very close. Jordan has been feeling like something is missing and just can’t put a name to what that is. Then he meets Wren and things are starting to make sense. Their connection is instant and they take a leap of faith to what will lead them to a happy ending. A short sweet story for you to enjoy before diving fully into this series!

The Jilted Exes’ Club Book 3: Boyfriend Without Benefits by Riley Hart

The Jilted Exes’ Club Book 3

Anthony

I’m the last single member of the Jilted Exes’ Club, and I have no plans to change that.

I’m fulfilled with my work at the club, dance classes, yoga, and the Exes. Plus, I’ve been extremely preoccupied with one Kason Maddox, the LA Rebels’ goalie. Let’s just say that since we’ve become friends, my eyes might drift in his general direction a little too much. But it’s only looking. And looking never harmed anyone…

Eventually, our texting sessions lead to dinners out and ending our nights watching our favorite shows. But when the paparazzi catch sight of us and the photos go viral, I suddenly find out I’ve had a boyfriend and didn’t know—a boyfriend without the benefits. And I’m thinking we should reconsider the benefits in this relationship if we are going to be in one.

Kason

So…I thought we were dating. Turns out, the guy I was dating had no idea that’s what we were doing. Friend-zoned without even knowing it. Cool. The equivalent of taking a puck to the face.

But due to an innocent little photo or two, now everyone thinks we’re together, so we have three 

1- Stop hanging out to silence the rumors.

2- Hang out as friends and ignore the gossip blogs.

3- Start dating—and both of us are aware of said dating this time.

I know which one I’m rooting for. And if I have to use a little dirty talk and some praise to shift things in my favor, I’m game.

https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/231388288-boyfriend-without-benefits

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My Review: 5/5 Stars

Anthony’s story has arrived! The last member of the Jilted Exes’ Club finally gets his happy ending and he more than deserves it. Anthony didn’t have an easy childhood. He learned the lesson early that those who are supposed to love you, leave you. So he’s done his best to keep his distance. And when he tried to open up, he was burned. So he’s done. Though he has to admit if it wasn’t for the lying and cheating Malcolm, he wouldn’t have met Hayes and Donovan. And those two have become his best friends. But even them he won’t tell all his secrets to. And he’s been busy anyway with work and dancing and then this new developing friendship with Kason Maddox. Anthony will admit, the goalie is super attractive but if it is between keeping his friendship intact or ruining if they ever hook up, he’ll stay friends. At least, that’s what he thinks. Meanwhile, Mads is crazy about Anthony. The more time they talk or spend together, the harder he falls. He has been loving to get to know him and finally asks Anthony out. He thinks everything is going great. They are casually dating and getting to know one another and Mads is sure he won’t scare Anthony away considering what the guy has been through. But then when pictures pop up of them together and announcing to the world they are boyfriends, turns out they were telling Anthony too. It takes Anthony a moment to put together that Mads and him… are boyfriends just without benefits. So what happens if they actually get to the benefits part? Turns out it’s the gateway to their happy ending. If Anthony is brave enough to take the first step. I adored these two! It was especially cute to see that they were definitely acting like they were dating but Anthony was clueless. But once they cleared it up, they were absolutely adorable together. I really loved getting to know both of these characters and watch them fall in love. It was a great way to end this series! Mads is so crazy about Anthony and I loved that he was determined to prove to Anthony just how much he cared. Swoon! So cute and you definitely don’t want to miss this!

I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.

Fae & Alchemy Book 2: Brimstone by Callie Hart

Fae & Alchemy Book 2

The #1 New York Times bestselling romantasy series continues with more drama, higher stakes, and deadly consequences.

Duty. Blood. Honor. Power.

Saeris Fane doesn’t want power. The very last thing she needs is her name whispered on an entire court’s lips, but now that she’s been crowned queen of the Blood Court, she’s discovering that a queen’s life is not her own. A heavy weight rests upon her shoulders. Her ward—and her brother—need her back in her homeland…but the changes that have strengthened Saeris have also made her weak. Born under blazing suns, Saeris will surely die if she makes her way home through the Quicksilver. Which means that, once again, she must send someone else in her stead...

“Keep your mouth shut. Stick to the shadows. And for the love of all seven Gods, do NOT crack any jokes.”

Kingfisher of the Ajun Gate has defeated armies and survived all manner of horrors, but traveling back to Zilvaren with Carrion Swift might just be the death of him. The male just will not shut up. Hidden dangers await them down the narrow alleyways of the Silver City. Unfolding secrets pose impossible threats. Fisher must wrangle the smuggler and accomplish his goals quickly if he wants to see his mate again.

A darkness falls across Yvelia. The realm and their friends are in danger. Together, Saeris and Fisher will pass through fire and brimstone to save them.

https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/222348870-brimstone

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My Review: 5/5 Stars

Back with Saeris and Kingfisher and this sequel did not disappoint! The series is only getting more interesting and after the end of that book? I can’t wait to see what happens next! So this story takes place shortly after the end of the previous book. Saeris is days away from being officially crowned queen of the Blood Court and it’s the last thing she wants or needs right now. But with her on the throne she can at least put an end to this part of the war. But while the Blood Court could have some answers they seek, it doesn’t mean it is safe. There is also the matter of returning to her homeland to retrieve her brother. But that task is not hers. It will be up to Fisher and Carrion. And we all know how a Fisher and Carrion team up will go. Expect way too much chaos and Fisher moments away from strangling Carrion to keep his mouth shut for once. And if that isn’t enough drama going on, there is also something covering the lands of Yvelia and they have no idea how to stop it. So much is going down in this book! For every answer we get, another question pops up. But I absolutely loved this story. And for once in this high stakes romantasy series, I did not want to throw my book across the room at a mean cliffhanger. Do I have many questions after that last page? Absolutely. But I’m only excited to find out what happens next! This story was great all around. Great action, romance, and a world that just keeps getting more interesting. Plenty of twists and turns and I loved getting to know Saeris and Fisher more as well as their friends. I can’t wait to see where this series takes us and I’m looking forward to book three!

Snowed in With You by Rye Cox

Eli

There was a time when I thought my new stepbrother, Nathan Bailey, and I could be friends. Best friends, even. But then I walked past his room and hear his friends make fun of me. Instead of defending me, he laughs with them. And his clueless act when I give him the cold shoulder? That just seals the deal. I hate Nathan Bailey.

The only thing that can be worse than being forced to drive to our family’s annual Christmas retreat with him is being caught in a snowstorm and trapped in a different cabin. Alone.

Nathan

When my dad married Eli Madison’s mom, I was excited about the possibility of having a brother. We seemed to be on our way to a great friendship when Eli suddenly stopped speaking to me. He’s been a cute, angry kitten for years now, and I don’t know why. It would help if he talked to me, but when he isn’t ignoring me, his words drip with disdain. What I do know is that Eli Madison hates me.

The only good thing about being trapped in this cabin with him is that he can finally tell me what I did wrong all those years ago… and maybe I can figure out why cute is the first word that comes to mind when I think of him. My stepbrother.

Snowed in With You is a standalone MM Christmas story featuring grumpy-only-to-you/sunshine stepbrothers, a bi-awakening, only one fireplace, and a couple of Corio Heights cameos.

https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/243159218-snowed-in-with-you

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My Review: 5/5 Stars

When Eli’s mom had remarried, he thought it would be great to have a brother. They were getting along great and he thought he would have a new best friend. Until he overheard Nathan’s friends talking about him and Nathan just laughing alongside them. It’s been years since then but Eli still holds a grudge. Because while Nathan appears like this really sweet and nice guy, Eli can’t help but feel like it’s some sort of lie. But then when they get snowed in together on their way to meet their family for Christmas, well, it may be time to clear the air. Nathan has never understood why Eli hates him. He thought they were getting along great until one day they weren’t. He has tried many times of the years to be nice and connect but Eli wasn’t having it. Who would have thought that being trapped together may finally clue him in to what was a misunderstanding. And being trapped and honest, well turns out there is more feelings both had their either let themselves think about. This was a cute, fun romantic Christmas story! A grumpy and sunshine tale that gave us some pretty great banter. I loved getting to know Eli and Nathan and for them to finally realize that they were always supposed to be way more than just stepsiblings and friends. They were actually quite cute! This is definitely a fun story you don’t want to miss!

I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
 

Adrenalin Book 5: Shattered by Michele Lenard

 

Adrenalin Book 5

Some people meet cute. Theirs was court-ordered.

Ryder Vorhees was born to ride—until the day he stopped.

A tragic accident stole his brother, his will to compete, and any reason to step back on a snowboard. Now he’s stuck serving community service hours at the last place he wants to the mountain that haunts him. The only thing worse? The man in charge of babysitting him.

Hayden Chaulke lives for helping people rediscover what they’ve lost. Running a fledgling adaptive sports program is supposed to be his dream job—until his newest “instructor” shows up hungover, bitter, and infuriatingly gorgeous. Hayden doesn’t do lost causes… but Ryder isn’t just anyone.

Forced to work together on the slopes, sparks fly between the surly ex–pro and the rule-following manager. What starts as hostility turns into something neither expected—an attraction that feels as dangerous as it is undeniable. But Ryder’s ghosts are never far behind, and learning to let go might mean facing the one thing he’s fought hardest to forgiveness.

Because some mountains aren’t meant to be conquered—they’re meant to heal you.

https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/243338729-shattered

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My Review: 5/5 Stars

It’s been no secret that Ryder has been struggling. The death of his brother months ago shattered him. Unable to stand the idea of getting on the mountain to snowboard and compete and just unable to live with the grief and guilt, he has pulled away from those who love him. And he drinks to numb it away. But his bad decisions has led him to a bad incident and now he has to do community service. But his friends are still there and in their attempt to help him, they push him to do his service at the resort to be an instructor for a new program they are developing. It’s the last place he wants to be. But he never expects Hayden. The icy guy who is now in charge of supervising him who doesn’t take Ryder’s attitude and surprisingly sparks something in Ryder. But is it enough to bring him out his grief and start to heal? Hayden doesn’t understand why Ryder is here. Not when he shows up hungover and looks it. He won’t jeopardize the students for anyone, so why is his boss insistent on helping Ryder? The pieces start to slowly form about exactly what Ryder is going through and there are moments where Hayden can see the good guy underneath the grieving man. And when they get a chance to explore this chemistry between them? It may just be the thing they both need and deserve. I’ve been looking forward to Ryder’s book! The poor guy has just been struggling and he really needed someone to pull him out. His friends give him the chance but it is Hayden who sparks the life back into him when he doesn’t treat him like broken glass. Ryder needs that kick to figure out how to heal and move on. I really loved their enemies to lovers vibes and Ryder’s healing journey. It’s not perfect but you can see when something clicks and he wants to figure himself out more. Another great book to this series!

I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.

Riding Pine by RM Neil

A hockey player and a beaver walk into a bar…

I’m not a real beaver. I just play one for the Bloomburg Aspens.

You’d be surprised how many times I need to clarify that.

It’s not a traditional job, but between my yoga studio and playing the beaver, it pays the bills.

The beaver mascot gig also comes with one Don’t reveal my identity to anyone.

Which wasn’t a big deal until I met this guy at the bar. A hot guy with a shy smile and a huge…wood.

Lukas Pine.

A hockey player for the Bloomburg Aspens.

He was only supposed to be a one-night stand, but we keep finding each other. Usually with our clothes off.

In my defense, I had to tell him. You should know you’re sleeping with the team mascot. Especially when the players aren’t supposed to know who I am.

Lukas is more than happy to keep it a secret, but there’s a new problem.

We’re not very good at hiding it.

And that’s when I learn riding pine isn’t always fun.

Riding Pine is a standalone novel set in the Bloomburg universe of the Sheltered Connections and Broken Horn Ranch series. A smart-mouthed former circus acrobat and a tender-hearted hockey tough guy at the end of his playing days are so hot together they have to bend not just their bodies, but the rules, to stay together. This story is pure ridiculousness with loads of spice and all the feels…oh, and some hockey.

https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/240065903-riding-pine

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My Review: 4/5 Stars

After losing a job he loves, Ben returns to his hometown to figure out what next. Staying with his best friend is temporary and opening a yoga studio has been a great way to keep his acrobatic background going. But when he gets a job offer with the local hockey team to be their mascot, well it’s pretty unexpected. They are looking for someone really bring excitement to the crowd and do something pretty new. And with Ben’s background with the circus, it’s not a bad idea. And the pay isn’t so bad either. They just have one rule: no one can know he is the mascot. There is just one problem with that. A few weeks earlier he met Lukas. The chemistry between them is explosive. They can’t keep their hands off one another and they can’t stop thinking about the other. And it looks like they are heading to a real relationship. Ben thinks he can keep the secret and he does…until he realizes that Lukas is on the hockey team. Lying is the last thing he wants to do when they are just getting started. So it looks like they’ll have to be sneaky… This was such a fun story! I loved getting to know Lukas and Ben. And the whole mascot and hockey player romance is something new and fun and fresh. I really enjoyed the story all around I wouldn’t mind seeing these two again if there are more hockey books coming!

The Games We Play Season 2 Book 3: Hearts on Ice by Denver Shaw

The Games We Play Season 2 Book 3

I’ve stopped pucks my whole career. What I can’t stop… is wanting him.

Drew

Six years ago, I buried my heart with my wife and daughter. Since then, I’ve lived by one rule—keep it professional, keep it safe.

But the kid in the net? He’s wrecking my rules one save at a time.

Miguel plays with heart. Reads the ice like it’s poetry. Sees me in ways no one has in years.

He’s too young. Too alive. Too off-limits.

And every time he smiles, I start to wonder if what I buried wasn’t just love—maybe it was who I am.

Miguel

Drew is discipline in a gray hoodie and heartbreak in human form.

I never thought I’d fall for anyone—especially not a man.

But something about him makes the rules blur and the air between us catch fire.

Every look is a risk. Every touch, a line we shouldn’t cross.

Some loves break the rules.

This one remakes them.

Hearts on Ice is a forbidden MM hockey romance with age gap tension, double bi-awakening, slow burn heat, and enough hurt/comfort to break your heart before putting it back together.

The Games We Play—Season 2 is the second season of this multi-author minor-league hockey romance series! All titles run concurrently through the same hockey season and the books can be read in any order, so jump in anywhere!

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My Review: 4/5 Stars

Drew has been holding himself the best he can for the last six years after losing not only his hockey career when he is injured on the ice, but when a plane crash took away his wife and daughter shortly after. So he’s buried himself working as a coach for the minor team ice hockey team. But then there is a shift. One he doesn’t realize is happening until it’s too late. Miguel is changing everything for him. He’s bringing him back to life. He never expected it, never thought he would want it, but every look Miguel gives him, well, Drew finds himself looking back. Miguel has known Drew for five years now and realizes he doesn’t know a lot about him. And there has been this shift inside him when he looks at Drew. He too doesn’t realize what is going on until it’s too late. And it’s something that he can’t stop, nor does he want to. Because the more he gets to know Drew, the harder he falls. Their coach and player, it probably shouldn’t happen. But their hearts say otherwise. A lovely slow burn between Drew and Miguel as they come to realize how they feel about one another. Neither have looked at men before, but really gender is the last thing on their mind. It’s how the two of them are together. How they feel when they lock eyes. I loved watching these two slowly fall in love. To taking steps to know one another better and just becoming closer and closer before they have that aha realization of falling. Great story all around!

The Black Dagger Brotherhood: 20th Anniversary Insider's Guide by JR Ward

 

Vampire warriors in black leather and tattoos.

Passionate love stories that pierce the heart.

Dark nights filled with drama, chaos, and epic battles in the shadows of Caldwell, NY…

And then there are the unicorn pajamas. And the Tootsie Pops.

Welcome back to the world of the iconic, #1 New York Times bestselling Black Dagger Brotherhood series. With millions of devoted readers across the globe, these unforgettable books have redefined paranormal romance. Now, to celebrate two decades of the Brothers, author J.R. Ward opens the door to their world once more.

Inside this all-new 20th Anniversary Insider’s Guide, Ward reflects on the journey—sharing behind-the-scenes moments, heartfelt memories, candid writing advice, and insight into the challenges and triumphs of her long and legendary career. She also brings back the original Brothers in a mix of classic content and never-before-seen material, 

• A brand-new novella, Happy Anniversary – Revisit Wrath and Beth as they reclaim the time lost between them. Tender, erotic, and emotional, this story returns to the couple who started it all—and proves that happily ever after doesn’t always come easy.

• Brotherhood updates, as J.R. interviews the Brothers to reveal where they are now.

• Fan-favorite features like Ask a Brother, Vishous’s Agony Aunt Column, Kitchen Corner with Fritz, and Bella’s Books.

• Playlists, monthly horoscopes, and more.

This keepsake collection is more than just an insider’s look—it’s a love letter to the fans, the world, and the unforgettable characters that have made the Black Dagger Brotherhood a genre-defining phenomenon. Whether you’ve been here from the beginning or are just now feeling the pull… this book is for you.

https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/238364012-the-black-dagger-brotherhood

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My Review: 5/5 Stars

What a wonderful way to celebrate 20 years of Black Dagger Brotherhood! In this newest insider guides, we have it all. Fun interviews with the Brothers and all the fun kind of things you may find in a newspaper. From advice columns, to playlists, horoscopes, recipes, and book recs, we have it all. But the best part? The new novella surrounding Beth and Wrath called Happy Anniversary. If you are caught up with the series, then you have an inkling what this is about. We jump from past to present as Beth relives the anniversaries she was grieving Wrath. Thirty years is a lot of ground to cover. And while it’s wonderful they are reunited, reality is, it isn’t exactly easy. But we know these two. And there isn’t anything they won’t do for one another and the love between them is stronger than anything. So no matter what happens, they’ll figure it out. The novella was definitely my favorite part. We needed it after everything that has happened so far in the series. We needed to see their struggles and how they reconnect after losing so much. It was really satisfying after such heartbreaking scenes in previous books. We needed this! And it only made more excited for our future books. You definitely don’t want to miss this guide if you love the series. It’s everything you would expect to come from the Brothers and their many shenanigans and of course, JR Ward herself. Loved this! And as always, can’t wait to see what is next in this world.

I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.

Christmas at Hall Farm Book 1: Frost and Fire by Ana Ashley

Christmas at Hall Farm Book 1

After decades of sold-out stadiums and never-ending tours, coming home to run my family's Vermont dairy farm was supposed to be peaceful. Instead, I'm being terrorized by my devastatingly attractive neighbor who's apparently declared war on me—one "gift" at a time.

A goat that won't leave my side. A rooster with a Napoleon complex. A hive of bees with serious attitude problems. The boy I remember as my best friend's sweet little brother has grown into a man with a serious grudge and zero intention of making my homecoming easy.

When a crisis threatens our small town's Christmas celebrations, we're forced to work together. Fighting our attraction while saving the holidays should be simple, right?

Too bad Taylen James has always been my greatest weakness.

Frost and Fire is a brother's best friend, enemies-to-lovers Christmas romance with an age gap, small-town charm, and enough sexual tension to melt Vermont snow.

https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/242448859-frost-and-fire

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My Review: 5/5 Stars

Bastian and his band, Hall of Fame, have reached the end of their tour and have decided on a much needed hiatus. They’ve been going strong for 25 years and a lot has changed since then. Most are ready to settle down a bit more and while music will always be part of their lives, they can still do other things. For Bastian, it means coming home and helping run his family farm. His dad needs the help and Bastian had always planned to be back. He’s made plans and he is ready. But coming back means facing things he has run from. Like Taylen James. The little brother of his best friend who died twelve years before. When Taylen looks at Bastian he sees the hurt and anger and the unspoken attraction between them. But Bastian is tired of running. He’s here to stay and he’ll prove it to Taylen. Losing his brother broke Taylen in a way that will never be truly mended. But on top of that? Losing his friend and his longtime crush didn’t help either. Because Bastian never stays long enough for Taylen to ask him to stay. And why should this time be any different? So he’ll guard his heart, he’ll keep his walls up. But saying and doing are two different things. And the more Bastian proves his words, the more Taylen’s walls are chipped. But can he fully  put his trust and heart on Bastian who was born to play his music? Loved this book! Taylen and Bastian had great chemistry and banter. Especially when they got into their so called gift giving war. But alongside that was this deep and raw love that has been with them for years. And now there is a chance for them if they are brave enough to take. Great start to this new series! I spied some potential couples and I am hoping to be proven right and get their books one day! I can’t wait for more in this series. 

I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.