Camp Half-Blood Book 1: The Wild Zone by Rick Riordan & Annabelle Oh

 

Camp Half-Blood Book 1

Ever wonder what goes on at Camp Half-Blood in between Percy Jackson’s legendary quests? Find out in the start of a new series from #1 New York Times bestselling author Rick Riordan and an all-star team of coauthors!

In book one, five newbie demigods dare to enter Camp Half-Blood’s forbidden Wild Zone, unleashing ancient curses, bloodthirsty monsters—and a fight to survive.

Katie Kim may be a newcomer to Camp Half-Blood, but even she knows they weren’t supposed to be running through the Wild Zone—the forest is off-limits to campers and staff. Why, then, did Clarisse, head counselor of the Ares cabin, take her and four other newbies there in the dark of night and tell them to race back to camp by morning?

Clarisse’s threat was scary enough, but when Katie’s half-brother Grant goes missing, his disappearance sparks the arrival of vicious monsters and a mysterious curse. It’s up to Katie and the three remaining newbies—the Wild Omada—to brave the Wild Zone again and uncover its dark and deadly secrets.

https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/249084568-the-wild-zone

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My Review: 5/5 Stars

It’s always so much fun returning to the World of Percy Jackson. And what was even more fun of when this story took place. I assumed it was going to be our latest in the timeline. But nope! It actually takes place between The Lightning Thief and Sea of Monsters. Time to find out exactly what was going on at camp during the school year after Percy returned home from his quest. This is just beginning of this series with some new characters. Leading us off is Katie Kim. After an Ares hazing goes wrong, Katie loses her friend in the Wild Zone, a very dangerous part of the forest that no one is supposed to enter. Katie and a few campers were taken there by Clarisse to escape from. But someone didn’t come back. Katie’s half-brother, another son of Ares, Grant. Katie is determined to find him. But turns out there is a lot about that section of the woods that no one knows about. And soon Grant isn’t the only one that eventually goes missing. This was such a fun story overall. And that ending! Definitely leaves us wanting to know more. We see so many familiar faces of characters we loved and lost later in the series, so it was fun to see them again. We get some new faces that I’m excited to learn more about. And it’s just interesting to see how things are going right before the war against Kronos truly blows up. It’s the early days of wondering what exactly is going to happen next. I’m definitely excited to see where this series takes us. 

The Empyrean Book 3.5: Threshing Day by Rebecca Yarros

 

The Empyrean Book 3.5

Welcome to Threshing Day, the brutal, high-stakes trial where would-be riders at Basgiath War College fight to earn the bond of a dragon or die trying. Amid ruthless competition and dragon fire, these thirteen cadets must survive a battlefield where desperate rivals will do anything to gain an advantage and dragons decide one’s ultimate fate―and where a single choice can forge a rider…or destroy them.

Xaden Riorson, the powerful leader. Rhiannon Matthias, the clever friend. Dain Aetos, the dutiful rule-follower. Liam Mairi, the kindhearted protector. Ridoc Gamlyn, the jokester. Sawyer Henrick, the underdog. Garrick Tavis, the dependable aide. Imogen Cardulo, the impulsive fighter. Bodhi Durran, the second-in-command. Mira Sorrengail, the fearless rider. Brennan Sorrengail, the brilliant tactician. Aaric Graycastle, the restless royal. Sloane Mairi, the determined sister.

https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/251172932-threshing-day

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My Review: 5/5 Stars

Threshing Day has arrived! I’ve been beyond excited to read this collection of stories about so many of my favorite characters and the day they bonded to their dragons. Absolutely love it. There are stories with plenty of surprises as well as just plain typical when it comes to the riders and their dragons. And I loved each of their story. I loved getting to be in their heads to see what they were thinking and to hear their dragons speak for the first time. We get to see exactly why these matched with who they did and why they work so well together. It truly made me hope and wish that future books in this series will include more points of views from these characters. There is just so much story to tell. But I’m glad we got a book like this to see them now. It just made me all the more excited to for the next book to come out! You definitely don’t want to miss this story. 

Creepin U Season 2 Book 6: All Orc Nothing by Toby Wise

 

Creepin U Season 2 Book 6

You’re formally readmitted to Creelin University, known locally as ‘Creepin U’. The only things wilder than the monsters prowling around campus are the love stories unfolding between classes. 

Thane feels like a fish out of water when he enters Creepin U. Most of his life has revolved around taking care of his younger siblings and now that he’s on his own, it hits him all at once that he’s a thirty year old who’s got a lot to catch up on. For one, it might be nice to finally experience his first kiss.

Maverick needs a break. When he’s offered the position of taking care of the campus medical center, Maverick jumps at the chance at a slower paced job. That’s where he sees Thane for the first time and sparks fly.

The two can’t seem to stop running into each other and what starts as mild intrigue, very quickly turns into something much deeper. Terrible parents, deadlines, jobs, and blood moons threaten to make them stumble but every twist and turn only serves to bring them closer together.

All of Thane’s focus is on taking care of his family while Maverick just wants to take care of Thane.

All Orc Nothing is part of the Creepin U: Season Two collab series. Inside you’ll find an overworked human doctor, an orc who’s busy taking care of everyone around him, insta-love, an age gap, first times, size difference, power dynamics, a sexy blood moon, a Halloween Ball, a supportive twin sister, two younger siblings who ‘ship it’, found family, and of course, a happily ever after!

https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/252818850-all-orc-nothing

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My Review: 4/5 Stars

Thane didn’t have a normal childhood. He basically became a parent at fifteen to his twin brothers because their parents were constantly fighting and never around. Now, fifteen years later, him and his own twin sister are heading to college for the first time. Thane constantly worries about his younger siblings but they want him to start his own life. Starting college older than everyone might feel strange, but everyone at Creelin U make him feel welcome. And then he meets Maverick. The man working at the campus medical center. Never has Thane felt like this about someone before. And though there might be a bit of an age gap between them, it doesn’t stop them from falling hard for one another. Because when you’ve found your person, it truly doesn’t matter. Maverick is tired. He took this job at Creelin U to give him a break from the ER. He just never expected to find love either. Thane is everything he wants in a partner. And the more they get to know one another, the more true it is. Adorable story! Thane is just the sweetest. He is always taking care of others, and it’s about time someone took care of him. Maverick was exactly what he needed and vice versa. Loving season two of Creepin U!

I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.

Creepin U Season 2 Book 2: First Kiss with a Mothman by CD Rachels

 

Creepin U Season 2 Book 2

You’re formally readmitted 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. ‘First Kiss with a Mothman’ is a monster romance. This spicy novel sings the tale of one grumpy mothman and a blind dude new to the university. Don’t read unless you enjoy first times, disability representation, musical moments, and dangerous twists. It’s part of the Creepin U: Season 2 collab series, and each book has a HEA.

I only want to keep my antennae down at college. That can’t happen while the distracting human boy has me hearing a new type of music.

Being the most well-known mothman in the country, I was never meant to live a normal life. My upbringing was far from average. I simply want to get my degree and start working.

But then I’m butting heads with a human dude, the only blind guy on campus. When we realize we have more in common than we thought, he asks to hang out. For some reason, he wants to be friends with a grumpy bug like me.

Still, I choose to befriend Arie. I find him more fascinating than I should. He’s a vulnerable human who ought to be more scared of the world than he is. He’s cheerful, optimistic, and way too endearing.

When his life is irrevocably changed before Halloween, I help him navigate this new identity. I need to be there for him as his friend, his confidante, and so much more.

Our lives are so different. Despite this, Arie is a flame I can’t stay away from. If we get together, will we fly into the sunset together? Or is our ballad a tragedy from the start?

https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/252745486-first-kiss-with-a-mothman

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My Review: 4/5 Stars

Mort came to college to escape from his childhood fame of being the mothboy. But even here, so many humans and monsters know his face. It’s hard to be the only mothman around. So keeping to himself is for the best. And for Arie, he came to school for some freedom. He’s human and blind and has a pet raven that is his guide. His mom is stifling and his cousin is essentially his mother’s spy. Is it so hard to get some independence? And then Mort and Arie meet and turns out they have a lot more in common than they think. While Arie’s crush on Mort becomes stronger, Mort still believes that he isn’t cut out for a relationship. But there is only so much he can do to keep his feelings shoved done. I loved these two! They were so sweet together. I loved how they formed this friendship that slowly turned into so much more. Mort is known for keeping to himself, but Arie really makes him step out of the shadows and be present. And for Arie, Mort gives him a chance to be himself and be so much more than his disability. This was just an overall fun story, with some pretty interesting twists as well! 

I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.

Creepin U Season 2 Book 3: The Golden Receiver by Essie Sloane

 

Creepin U Season 2 Book 4

Kieran

When I got recruited to transfer to Creelin University to play football, I thought this might be my chance. I would be the first human on the team. I would make campus history.

Okay, really, I just liked the full scholarship that came with it. It was a great way to escape the small town I lived in with my Pops my whole life and the not-so-great college I attended.

I didn't expect to feel like a fish out of water. I really didn't expect there to be a werewolf going after the same position as me.

How can I compete with a supernatural creature?

Evander

When Coach Shaw said we were getting a human on the football team, I was excited! Except the human in question is grumpy, surly, and I'm not sure he knows how to smile.

He also wants to be the number one wide receiver on the team, the same position I'm trying to get. I know I'm the better player, but he keeps distracting me.

He smells really good, you know?

I really need to stay focused, and not on the distractingly handsome grumpy human.

You’re formally readmitted 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. ‘The Golden Receiver’ is a monster romance featuring a golden retriever werewolf and a black cat human. Expect rivals-to-lovers, football, and a himbo werewolf whose whole job is to play catch.

https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/252462119-the-golden-receiver

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My Review: 4/5 Stars

When Kieran receives a full scholarship to play football at Creelin University, he can’t turn it down. He might be the only human on the team, but this is his chance to play professional football one day. But being on a team of monsters isn’t easy. He has to work even harder to prove he belongs there and can keep up. He also isn’t the most social person on the team. Making friends isn’t easy for him and he prefers to keep to himself. But no one seems to have told Evander that. Evander is determined to make friends with Kieran. There is something about Kieran that calls to him and while Kieran makes it very hard to be friends, Evander isn’t giving up. And it may be his determination that eventually gets Kieran to warm up to him. Especially after they kiss. And when others on the team threaten Kieran, Evander won’t let anyone hurt his human. This was a fun story! We definitely get some sunshine and grumpy vibes. And I love that Evander doesn’t give up on Kieran. Kieran may be a bit prickly, but he needs someone in his corner. And Evander really truly proves to be a great friend and more. It was fun to see Kieran fall for Evander bit by bit. And vice versa. Another great story in this series! And I’m looking forward to more!

I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.

Empire of Sins Book 2: Deviant Need by L. Norell

 

Empire of Sins Book 2

Taken in by the Avrorin family as a child, Daniil has only ever had one safe place: Mikhail Avrorin.

For eight years, he’s wanted more, consumed by a one-sided crush triggered by a forbidden encounter in their teens. A crush so devastating, and buried so deep, he’s almost at a breaking point. When he tries to pull away, Mikhail pulls him in tighter, unwilling to let him go despite both wanting the impossible.

Over the years, they’ve become inseparable, codependent in ways that cross every line of what’s healthy. And they shouldn’t want each other the way they do. It’s forbidden. Wrong. But one kiss has the power to destroy every wall they’ve built.

When Daniil decides to search for his biological family, against the Avrorins’ wishes, Mikhail is the only one he trusts to help. But the truth runs deeper and darker than either of them expected, and some of it was never meant to be found.

https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/254107114-deviant-need

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My Review: 4/5 Stars

Daniil and Mikhail have been inseparable since they were children. Daniil was brought to Mikhail’s family under pretty mysterious circumstances when he was two. Injured badly and unable to speak. It wasn’t until much later thanks to Mikhail that Daniil was able to speak words. And to this day, he can only do it for Mikhail. It was also as a teenager that Daniil realized that he was in love with Mikhail. Something he knew he would have to keep to himself forever for many reasons. Daniil is Mikhail’s person. They are super codependent and Mikhail just knows he can’t ever lose Daniil. But then Daniil has been acting strange lately. Trying to keep his distance, and Mikhail isn’t having it. Until it finally just clicks. What these feelings for Daniil are. And when they finally cross that line, there is no going back. Add into the fact that their family are mafia and their father is insane. And when Daniil decides it’s time to search for answers on where he came from, neither realize just how much trouble they are about to get in. Oh man, these two. They break your heart over and over, with what they have been through and continue to go through in this book. But they have each other. They truly are one another’s person. They’ve always been. So much goes down in this book and I definitely can’t wait for book 3 where we get some final answers to questions we’ve been asking since book 1. Really enjoying this series overall! And I can’t wait to see what happens next.

Van Doren Book 10: Jalon by Crea Reitan

 

Van Doren Book 10

I want him for selfish reasons.

I’ve spent the last thirty years building an empire for my family. I never want anyone I love to find themselves in the same position I was when my parents left: a failing company, an Estate in ruins, and my four brothers under seven for me to raise. 

The world sees a king - infallible, untouchable, and unshakable. Knowing how to control my features and wearing a suit like armor, no one can see the scars of the mistakes I’ve made nor do they know I’ve conducted all my relationships like business transactions. 

Right up until Levis Li turned my life inside out in the best possible way. Then the fool decides to use himself as live bait for a doctor killing his patients. 

https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/255745074-jalon

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My Review: 5/5 Stars

It’s finally Jalon’s turn! This has been a long awaited story for the Van Dorens. We’ve known for a while who Jalon ends up with based on a few outside stories of the Van Doren series thanks to when those take place. But now we actually get to see how Jalon and Levis got together. Their story was happening for quite a bit, quietly, like those two tend to be. To everyone, Jalon is this untouchable king. Always there for his family, protective, and successful. And just so many other things. But when it comes to love and relationships, he’s never truly sought them out. Especially when his ex harmed his children. Something he still feels guilt for in not seeing it sooner. His children love him and have never truly blamed him. So then there is just this moment between Levis and Jalon and it is like something clicks. For both of them. What starts out as really these secret hook ups turns into so much more as time goes by. Levis had a plan for his life, but things change as you grow. Life changes. Levis never expected to fall for Jalon. That there could be a future together. And it’s a future they both more than deserve. I really loved these two. I was so excited to see just how they got together and how they fit. And after their story, it’s more than clear that these two could not be more perfect for one another. And with all Van Doren stories, on top of a romance, we get a pretty crazy side plot where the Van Dorens get to stop some pretty bad people. This time involving a hospital and one bad doctor. For those who love King Jalon, you will not be disappointed in his story! It’s well worth the long wait to get us here!

I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.

Once Upon a Broken Heart Book 3.5: The Mirror of Infinite Endings by Stephanie Garber

 

Once Upon a Broken Heart Book 3.5

The #1 NEW YORK TIMES BESTSELLING Once Upon a Broken Heart series continues… Return to the Magnificent North and the BREATHTAKING LOVE STORY that has captivated readers all over the world!

Jacks and Evangeline Fox have finally found their happily ever after.

Everything here in the Hollow is wonderful and perfect.

Nothing is going to go wrong.

No one is keeping a secret . . . except for maybe one.

But don’t worry, it’s not going to rewrite reality or alter history or change the ending of Jacks and Evangeline’s story.

Definitely not.

Featuring cameos from fan-favorite characters and twenty full-page illustrations by Lotusbubble, the newest installment in the Once Upon a Broken Heart universe will immerse readers once again in this beloved, #1 New York Times bestselling series. Because every story has the potential for infinite endings.

https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/246483669-the-mirror-of-infinite-endings

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My Review: 5/5 Stars

We are back with a novella for Evangeline and Jacks! And it is exactly what you would expect from these two. Finding trouble wherever they go. Evangeline and Jacks have found their happy ending. As Evangeline sets out to reopen the Hollow, she is scrambling to finish everything before the big day. So of course that is the perfect time for LaLa to drag her away for a little bit. And what does Evangeline do? Finds a magic mirror to walk through. Little does she know, that she has begun a test that will determine her and Jacks future. This was a great novella for these two. I loved being back in this world and seeing what they have been up to. We’ve waited so long for their happy ending and it was super sweet to see they found it. And that they’ll keep it and always find their way back to one another. If you enjoyed the series so far, you definitely won’t want to miss this!

The Cruise Back to You by Ana Ashley

 

I didn't ask for a vacation. I definitely didn't ask to be trapped on a cruise ship with my ex.

Colter and I were together for five years before I walked away. He never wanted the future I was dreaming of. At least, that's what I thought.

Our best friends promised relaxation and umbrella drinks. Their grand scheme? Lock us on a boat and let the ocean work its magic.

I should be furious. I should avoid Colter for seven days straight.

There's just one problem. Being around him reminds me of everything I've been trying to forget. The way he looks at me. The way my heart still races when he's near.

I wanted to get over him. Instead, I'm falling all over again.

One cruise. One ex. A second chance neither of us saw coming.

https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/259113695-the-cruise-back-to-you

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My Review: 5/5 Stars

Robin didn’t want to go on vacation, but after his best friend insisted they go, he gives in. A week to relax on a cruise? Sure, he can do that. Until he sees his ex on board. Robin and Colter were together for five years, but months ago Robin walked away. Feeling like their relationship suddenly had no future and Colter was pulling away from him. Now, thanks to both of their meddling best friends, they are on the same boat together. Colter wants to be mad at his best friend, but he also has missed Robin all these months. He doesn’t know what exactly what wrong. He was saving up to build them the future they wanted. He thought Robin knew that. Right? The time for miscommunication is over for these two! Can there be a second chance for them? Super cute short story. Being stuck on a cruise by their best friends was exactly what Robin and Colter needed. The love between them was definitely there they just had to finally speak up about it! Definitely check out this story!

I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.

On Thin Ice Book 3: Goalie Interference by KC Carmichael

 

On Thin Ice Book 3

I am certifiably the best goalie in the league, the Stanley Cup with my name on it proves it. So why am I suddenly completely off my game? And why the hell is a rival goalie the only person who can help?

Nikolai Ivanov lost that Cup to me. He has every reason to enjoy my downward spiral, and no reason at all to talk me through a panic attack at midnight, or pull me out of my own head with his dry Russian humor right before a game. By the time I stop to wonder what’s in it for him, Nikolai has become the most important part of my pregame routine. And I’m craving even more.

But there’s only one Stanley Cup, and we both want it. Getting involved with the goalie on the other side of the rink as we skate towards playoffs could cost us everything.

Staying away from him should be easy.

It's certifiably not.

https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/253756227-goalie-interference

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My Review: 4/5 Stars

Ander should be riding the high that is winning the Stanley Cup and having his turn to show it off, and he is, but he also is realizing just how different this summer has been. Things have changed and Ander is realizing just how lonely he is. Especially when his brother and best friend are in a relationship now. Then later, he can feel something off in his game when the season starts back up again. And a goalie who lets in goals is not a goalie someone wants on their team. But someone ends up being really good for helping Ander get out of his head. Nikolai. Rival goalie and someone Ander finds himself drifting to and befriending. And he can’t help but wonder, what is about Nikolai that just makes Ander feel safe and seen and heard? Nikolai shouldn’t be friends with a rival goalie, but Ander makes it impossible to remember why. And when Nikolai starts developing feelings? He knows he is in trouble. But does Ander feel the same? And even if he did, can they actually have a relationship when they can never be on the same NHL? But all Nikolai knows is that this connection between them is something he has never felt before. And when he learns Ander feels the same? They’ll have to figure out just exactly what kind of future is out there for them. I loved these two! Ander and Nikolai were so sweet together. They just got one another and were one another’s safe space. I loved watching them develop a friendship that turned into so much more the more they spent time with one another. They both deserve the love they had for one another. Just an overall great story!

I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.

The Duke Brothers Book 7: The Moment He Couldn’t Walk Away by Lani Blake

 

The Duke Brothers Book 7

She thought she knew her story. He thought he was done being a hero. They were both wrong.

Finch McAllister entered the military at eighteen. It wasn’t just a career—it was his life. Now he was home, injured and grounded, facing a future he hadn’t chosen and wanting solitude to heal.

Lyntacky had other ideas. So did Nina Winters.

Nina built her life exactly the way she wanted it. A job she loved, friends she trusted, and zero complications. Then her mother’s memory faded, and the contents of a box changed everything she’d always believed. She wasn’t who she thought she was. And someone dangerous was hunting her.

Finch McAllister didn’t come home to be anyone’s hero. But when Nina Winters lands in danger, walking away isn’t an option.

Tropes: Forced Proximity, Romantic Suspense, Small Town, Wounded Military MMC, Hidden Identity

Meet The McAllisters. Growing up as Lyntacky’s unofficial hippies, the McAllister kids mastered two things fast: loyalty and survival. They band together like pros, recycle like champions, and can whip up an herbal remedy for whatever mysterious rash you’ve picked up.

https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/252112651-the-moment-he-couldn-t-walk-away-a-small-town-romantic-suspense

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My Review: 5/5 Stars

Finch had his life planned out. He always wanted to be in the military and planned to be there for a long time. But an accident changes everything. A year later, he is discharged and continuing to struggle with his continued concussion diagnosis. And now he has no idea what to do next. He’s back home in Lyntacky and while he wants to just wallow for a bit longer, his family and friends won’t let him get away with that. He’s a different man than he once was but not so different that the feelings he had for Nina went away. But can he actually have the future he once wanted when he doesn’t know what his future looks like anymore? Meanwhile, Nina is dealing with a lot. When she loses her mother, she is thrown for even more of a loop when a letter from her mother reveals the truth about her father. Turns out he wasn’t exactly a good guy and her mother has done everything in her power to protect Nina from him. And when there have been a few incidents lately, she can’t help but wonder if he is connected to it after all. But she’s not alone. Not with Finch who she’s had feelings for for a while or the rest of town where the locals are protective of one another. As always, I love coming back into this world! I’m reminded constantly that I wish I could live in this town! I loved getting to know Finch and Nina more in this story. These two were great for one another and they truly came together when they both needed one another most. As always with these stories, on top of a romance, we get a bit of a suspense. Great story all around! And I’m looking forward to the next one!

I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.

Cranham Kings Book 2: Callous Shot by Becca Steele

 

Cranham Kings Book 2

Daniel Hoyton has been a thorn in my side for as long as I can remember. We play for rival hockey teams. We attend rival universities. Our families are on opposite sides of the law. 

I hate him, with his irritatingly smug smile, his arrogance, and his inability to take anything seriously.

I want to wipe that smile from his face with my fist.

…Or my mouth.

I can’t decide if I want to punch him or kiss him, and it’s beginning to be a problem. A problem with big consequences. Not only is he completely wrong for me, but his family and friends are under investigation…and my uncle is in charge of the operation. 

I know we’re going to crash and burn.

But I can’t seem to stay away from the flames.

Callous Shot is part of Cranham Kings, a college hockey romance series with darker themes. Each book can be read as a standalone.

https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/244393276-callous-shot

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My Review: 5/5 Stars

Dan and Link have been at one another’s throats for a long time. Rivals on and off the ice, these two just can’t help but rile the other one up every chance they get. Add in the fact that their families are on opposite sides of the law, and it’s just a messy affair. But what happens when they find a new way to work out that tension? These two can tell one another they hate each other all they want, but deep down their feelings are anything but hate. But while those two are working out what exactly is going on between them, there are other things they have to worry about. Link’s father is threatening Link to find dirt on Dan’s criminal family or else face the consequences. Link hates his parents, but he would never jeopardize his uncle and young cousin. But what he is feeling for Dan? How can he find a way out of what feels like an impossible situation? Meanwhile, Dan is trying to figure out this latest issue his family and friends are facing, but something isn’t adding up quite right. Can they figure it out? Another great story in this series! I love a good enemies to lovers stories and Dan and Link were definitely a favorite of mine. Their banter and chemistry are so good. And they both are so deeply loyal and caring, especially to each other. The fight they have ahead of them is hard but one they can get through if they can do it together. Great story all around and I’m looking forward to the next book in the series!

I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.

The Rookie Diaries Book 1: Rookie Moves by Jodi Oliver

 

The Rookie Diaries Book 1

COLBY

For almost ten years, the world of hockey has had their eyes on me, watching my every move.

I’m projected to be the first overall pick in the NHL draft this summer, and have been nicknamed a franchise altering talent.

But with high praise comes a lot of pressure I can’t escape, and has resulted in me being a rookie in more ways than one.

The only problem is there’s only one person I feel safe with, and I'm pretty sure there are rules about not crushing on your teammate.

TYLER

Ever since I met Colby, I’ve kept an eye on him. No one should have to put up with the pressure the world has laid on his gorgeous shoulders and the defeated look in his beautiful eyes.

But you shouldn’t notice these things about your teammates.

So when Colby asks me to teach him everything I know in the bedroom because I’m the only one he feels safe with?

I should say no, but there’s nothing I wouldn’t do for Colby McKay.

I should’ve known it wouldn’t be as simple as a friends with benefits arrangement.

https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/246682522-rookie-moves

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My Review: 5/5 Stars

Colby has had eyes on him in the hockey world since he was a kid. He’s beyond talented and there are high expectations when he reaches the NHL. And while everyone assumed he would go straight to the pros after high school, he declined so he could have at least one year in college before everything changes forever. And while it was a great decision in more ways than one, he still can’t escape the media. So he continues to keep his head down. But there were things he wanted to do in college and before the draft. A big on? Lose his virginity. And his best friend points out the perfect man for the job: Tyler. Colby’s teammate and someone actually feels safe with. When Colby asks Tyler to help him out, he never expected it to be sex related. Tyler’s always been attracted to Colby but he pushed it aside because they’re teammates. Yet, how can he say no? The chemistry between them is insane and the feelings they hoped would stay down, are doing the complete opposite. Their team is on their way to the Frozen Four, Colby is headed for the draft, and Tyler is about to graduate. Can there be a future between them? Loved this story! This is just the beginning for Tyler and Colby. And I’m happy to hear we get a follow up story. This didn’t end on a cliffhanger or anything. It truly was just the beginning of their relationship and the forever they hoped to have. Colby and Tyler were so sweet, in general and especially to each other. They were exactly what the other needed. Colby is navigating this scary world of pro hockey and Tyler is learning to stand up to his family and have the future he wants and deserves. I can’t wait to see what happens with these two next!

I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.

Siren’s Point Book 3: On Dry Land by JJ Mulder

 

Siren’s Point Book 3

Dryden Roy’s desire for love died years ago when his marriage ended. He lost things he never thought he’d have to part with, and discovered aspects of himself that he hadn’t known were there. Above all, he learned a hard lesson about trust.

Spencer Davis likes to walk. In fact, it’s his job. A vlogger who lives on the road, carrying everything he owns on his back, he strolls into Siren’s Point looking for footage of lobster boats. What he finds instead is a lobsterman.

Dryden and Spencer are different in too many ways to number. In only one thing can they relate— their mistrust of each other and everyone else.

And yet, a chance meeting in the dark leads to time spent together in the light. Circumstance has them occupying the same space, and it’s only a matter of time before a bond begins to form over knots, lobstering, and the water. But trust is a hard thing to earn, and an even harder thing to give away.

As Dryden and Spencer become close, they discover that some scars are physical, some emotional, but all can heal.

https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/253910836-on-dry-land

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My Review: 4/5 Stars

Dryden was done with love when his marriage ended after finding out that his husband cheated on him. A lot. Consistently. So putting trust in anyone else? Might just be impossible. He’s made a new life for himself in Siren’s Point. He keeps everyone at a distance and he’s okay with it. Mostly. Even he will admit there is a part of him that is lonely and he misses having someone in his home. But to put his heart and trust out there again? Not happening. That is until Spencer. Spencer found himself just literally walking around the country after something changed his life and left him with almost nothing. He likes the adventures, he likes walking. But even he can admit that part of it can get scary and never knowing if he will find a safe place to rest is stressful. Trusting Dryden to give him a place to stay and not want anything in return seems impossible. Yet, a very small part of him does. At least enough to accept some help. The longer one another stay in each other’s orbit, the more they get to know one another deeply. They work. Against everything they may have thought otherwise. But will Spencer stay in one place? And can Dryden truly let him in? Such a great story! These two had such a great dynamic in more ways than one. I loved finally getting Dryden’s story and seeing what he was thinking and feeling. We’ve only ever seen him through the eyes of another. I loved watching these two build trust and friendship between them and that it led to so much more. Just another great story in Siren’s Point!

I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.

Bridgeport Jetties The Call-Up Years Book 2: Hiding in the Outfield by Lizzie C. Koz

Bridgeport Jetties The Call-Up Years Book 2

 “No pressure either way,” I murmur. “Just opportunity. If you want it.”

I thought I was the one helping him. Giving him something.

How wrong I was.

FRANKIE

I’ve learned something interesting about myself over the years: I’m either the guy after the guy, there to help you recover from your latest romantic disaster, or I’m the guy you experiment with before you move on to find the person you really want.

I can’t blame them. I am awfully pretty.

And judging by the way my brother’s teammate watches me when he thinks no one’s looking, I’ve found myself another curious closeted man.

Well, Ollie-baby, lucky you. This Frankie fun-ride is at your service. Trust me, sweetness, I'll treat you so right. And the best part? It can stay our little secret.

Just don’t get attached.

Because like all rides, this one comes to an end.

I made the mistake once of believing I could have it all.

Never again.

JACKSON

My plan is simple: stay locked up tight until my baseball career is over.

I’m just another straight ballplayer in a straight world, keeping my head down. Because in my family, inside every locker room I’ve ever known—being gay isn’t an option.

Baseball is supposed to be enough. It has been.

Then Frankie Nebiolo walked in and offered me something I couldn’t resist.

A secret place to be myself in a way I’ve never risked before.

With him, I can finally breathe. I can finally want.

Except…the longer we're together, the more painful hiding becomes.

Now I'm starting to wonder if I'd trade everything for the chance to stop pretending.

Hiding in the Outfield is a steamy baseball romance between a touch-starved closeted athlete and a sultry gay man who hides behind his glitter and sass. Expect irresistible yearning, first-times and high-heat lessons, hurt/comfort that cuts deep, and a loud, loving found family that makes healing feel possible.

https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/250641080-hiding-in-the-outfield

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My Review: 4/5 Stars

Jackson has shoved who he truly is deep down the moment it was clear that his family would never approve. The need to hide himself away has been the thing he needed to survive. Even if it meant surrounding himself by some horrible people and even to go as far as pretending to act like them. Until it’s finally he just can’t do it anymore. Because the moment Jackson sees Frankie he knows he is in trouble. Even after they meet, he tries to keep a distance. He promises himself that one day he can be who he is just after his baseball career. But how can he not feel anything for Frankie? Pure sunshine and unashamedly out and proud of who he is. The moment they give in to the attraction between them, it is the beginning of Jackson finally being himself. And becoming the man he was always meant to be. Meanwhile, Frankie learned long ago that maybe he is never anyone’s happily ever after. Burned one too many times, he decides hook ups are enough for him. So why does he find himself basically becoming boyfriends with Jackson? Giving Jackson his safe space to explore this part of him that he was never allowed to do is one thing, but feelings? Totally different. But it’s too late. He is in just as much trouble as Jackson. There are a lot obstacles in their way, but maybe they have a chance of finding the love they have been always craved. I loved these two! I loved Jackson’s growth in this story. He truly had to act pretty terrible because the fear in him was so deep but between Frankie and the friends he was finally able to make when he actually acted like himself, he gets that supportive family he just never had. I loved seeing him grow into himself and find someone who loves him so deeply. And same for Frankie! He deserves all the love after everything he has been through. And no one cares more from him than Jackson. A great story all around! I cannot wait for more!

I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.