Review: Fortuna Sworn by KJ Sutton

August 8, 2019 by · Leave a Comment

FORTUNA SWORN
Series: Fortuna Sworn #1
Genre: Fantasy
Author: KJ Sutton
Release Date: July 1, 2019

We were meant to be seductive. We were designed to lure humans in.

Fortuna Sworn is the last of her kind.

Her brother disappeared two years ago, leaving her with no family or species to speak of. She hides among humans, spending her days working at a bar and her nights searching for him.

The bleak pattern goes on and on… until she catches the eye of a powerful faerie.

He makes no attempt to hide that he desires Fortuna. And in exchange for her, he offers something irresistible.

So Fortuna reluctantly leaves her safe existence behind to step back into a world of creatures and power.

It soon becomes clear that she may not have bargained with her heart, but her very life.

 

AMAZON


Nightmares may be lies, but we don’t have to be liars.”

Fortuna Sworn is book one of a new fantasy romance series by KJ Sutton. Right off the bat, I was intrigued by the blurb of this book.  Fortuna has been looking for her missing brother for two years so when she’s approached by a powerful faerie offering information about her brother in exchange for marriage, Fortuna went with him.

This book started off with a bang. Fortuna is a heroine with a really unique and scary power, and we are instantly treated to what she can do in the first chapter. I was intrigued and was instantly hooked especially when we meet Collith, the faerie king who seems to genuinely want to help her. It especially got interesting when Fortuna got to the Unseelie Court but this is also where pacing issues started to plague the book.

But aside from the pacing, I wasn’t too crazy about the drama and the fact that this could go into love triangle/love square territory. There isn’t one yet but the fact that there are 3 men vying for Fortuna’s attention, I could see it going that way. And while I don’t exactly hate it, I’m just over that trope. I’m tired of it because I would rather see other male characters be her friends and allies instead of her love interest?

It didn’t help that I disliked all three male lead characters at this point. I don’t know if this feeling will change in the next books but right now, I am somewhere between bored and actively hating all three of them. But this is just me being a hero-hater. I’ve seen other readers who’ve read this book loving and favoring one or two heroes vying for Fortuna’s attention.

That said, I enjoyed Fortuna’s trials immensely. It was, in my opinion, the best parts of the book because it showed readers her power and her potential to be a power player.

I won’t go into anymore details about the story but if you like faeries and faerie courts or love triangles, then I would recommend this book.

<i>Thanks to KJ Sutton for providing a copy of the book available for this review.</i>

 

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Review: Untamed Delights by Suzanne Wright

August 7, 2019 by ·

UNTAMED DELIGHTS
Series: The Phoenix Pack #8
Genre: Paranormal Romance
Author: Suzanne Wright
Release Date: July 16, 2019

Return to the sensual and feral stirrings of the Phoenix Pack as a woman who’s already bound to one man is tempted by a wolf who’s bound only to his nightly desires.

Cat shifter Mila Devereaux can’t help but see it as a betrayal. That her one true mate imprinted himself on another female was hard enough to accept. Struggling to be at peace with her loveless fate, she doesn’t fight the suggestion of entering an arranged mating. Then she meets Dominic, a pack enforcer with a notorious reputation. It’s in his very scent. This irresistible playboy—and delicious badass wolf—is making Mila’s fantasies come alive again.

Alarming, compelling, and heady with sensual energy, Dominic is an expert at making women shed their inhibitions. Now everything about him—his killer smile, his perfectly sculpted body, and his smooth-as-honey voice—is drawing in a captivating new catch. But for the first time in his life, Dominic is feeling more than a fling. He finds himself tantalized by a female who makes him think of forever. He wants all of Mila and won’t be satisfied until he has it.

As the passion grows wild, so does the risk. They’re falling in love in the shadows and secrets of their pasts. And it’s threatening to destroy everything Mila and Dominic are fighting for. And are destined for.

AMAZON


I’ll bet you’re one of those guys who gives his cock a name.”
“I call mine ‘the truth.’”
“The truth?”
“Because women can’t handle it.”

Finally, my favorite goofball of the Phoenix Pack gets a book and he did NOT disappoint. Dom has been one of my absolute favorite secondary characters in this series. The man can deliver a cheesy pick up line like no other.

As it happens, my Alpha is considering having me committed. Especially since I keep claiming my watch is magic. But it really is.”
She gave him a droll look. “Is that so?”
“Oh yeah.” He glimpsed at his watch. “According to this, you’re not wearing underwear.”
Her brows drew together. “Actually, I am.”
“Really? Hmm.” Frowning, he tapped the watch. “Must be an hour fast.”

But I’d be lying if I didn’t admit I was a little afraid to read his book because of this. While Dom was great in small doses, I wasn’t sure how the author would pull off an entire book that may be full of his goofball tactics. So color me surprised when I learned that Dom is easily one of the most multi-layered characters I’ve read in this series. Seriously, y’all, the man’s layers have layers, and they’re DEEP. You think you know him, but there’s a wealth of pain that he keeps hidden under the goofball facade. And if you think you know what that pain is, you couldn’t be more wrong.

If there’s one thing that I love about Suzanne Wright, it’s her ability to deliver some of the sassiest and feistiest heroines ever. And when it comes Mila, she was no exception. I love the cute and fluffy yet vicious dynamic of the pallas cats, and Mila was awesome! This woman can kick some serious a$$ and look adorable doing it.

The story definitely didn’t disappoint either. Both Mila and Dom had a super intriguing story line. First with Dom’s love em and leave em past coming back to really bite him on the butt. And Mila dealing with the fallout of meeting her true mate but after he falls in love and imprints on her cousin.

In true Wright fashion there’s plenty of sizzle in this quick paced and action packed romance. Dom and Mila together were incendiary. I loved watching him really have to work for a female for once. And Mila sure mad him work. This is a woman that doesn’t give in easily, but when she does? FIREWORKS!!!

If you’ve been eagerly anticipating Dom’s book like I have been, you definitely won’t be disappointed with this one!

· Filed Under: All Reviews, PNR · Tagged With: , ,

Review: Lost In You by @authorlexiblake

August 6, 2019 by ·

LOST IN YOU
Series: Masters & Mercenaries: The Forgotten #3
Genre: Romantic Suspense, BDSM
Author: Lexi Blake
Release Date: August 6, 2019

Robert McClellan was forced to serve as a soldier in a war he didn’t understand. Liberated by McKay-Taggart, he struggles every day to reclaim the life he lost and do right by the men he calls his brothers, The Lost Boys. Only one thing is more important – Ariel Adisa. The gorgeous psychologist has plagued his dreams since the day they met. Even as their mission pushes him to his limits, he can’t stop thinking about taking his shot at finding a life beyond all this with her.

Ariel Adisa is a force to be reckoned with. Her performance in Toronto proved she’s more than just a brilliant mind, but Robert still acts as if she is a wilting flower who needs his protection. Joining him on the mission to Munich should be the perfect opportunity to test their skills and cement their relationship. She and Robert are an excellent match. But when a stunning secret from Robert’s past is revealed, their world is turned upside down and nothing will ever be the same again.

While they chase dark secrets across Europe, Robert and Ariel realize that the only thing worse than not knowing who you are could be discovering who you used to be…

AMAZON

I don’t know about your other patients. I’m sure many fall in love with you because you’re an angel, but I want to bring out the devil in you. I want the dirty, nasty Ariel who will rock my world not with the power of her mind—but with every drop of the sexuality I intend to bring out in you

That shocked reader there, the one currently picking her jaw off of the floor? No, not that one. The OTHER one. Yes, the one that’s currently stalking Lexi Blake for any breadcrumbs from the next book. No, not that one! The other one! The one that’s currently rocking in the corner while slobbering something incoherent that sounds like ‘I need the next book’. Yes. Yes, that one. The pathetic looking one that’s clutching her kindle to her chest. Yep. That’s me! And don’t you judge me either! Because this book blew me away! AWAY I tells ya!

This was, hands down, bar none, my absolute favorite book in the series so far. And yes, I know I also said that about the last book. So that’s saying something, mkay? So. Freaking. Good.

Robert and Ari have been desperate for each other for years. Ever since Robert was first rescued from the clutches of the evil Dr. McDonald. But he knew his violent urges and inability to control the darkness in his mind made him dangerous to the beautiful psychologist. But Ari is so much more than she seems.

I’ll tell you guys, that I was afraid I was going to be bored considering there’s such a substantial connection that’s already established with this couple through the first two books. And the fact that they get together quite quickly made me nervous. I’m a reader that likes my angst and enjoys that delicious burn of anticipation for the couple to finally get together. But of course Lexi Blake made me eat my words. Because the romance was phenomenal!

There’s so much that’s happening as the team continues to try and unearth the secrets of their pasts and prevent Levi Green from getting his hands on the mind erasing drug that took their past lives away from them. Lost In You was non stop action with so many twists and turns, it will leave your head reeling.

In the midst of all that high octane action, you also get more details about Solo and Ezra, which left me damn near rabid for their book. Think Ian and Charlotte times ten! YES. It’s that good. Then there’s the development behind Tucker’s past and who really is Dr. Razor. And boy oh boy, let me just tell you, it’s delicious!!! I’m practically dying for that book.

Ari and Robert together were incendiary. Their connection is so strong, but with the secrets that Ari is keeping and the hidden truth of Robert’s past still standing between them, it’s not an easy road for them. I devoured this book, y’all! Like downright devoured. I couldn’t put it down for even a second. There’s so much that happens. Secrets unearthed. Truth revealed. Twists thrown in. It was totally and completely unputdownable. I’m utterly rabid for the next book!!!

· Filed Under: All Reviews, BDSM, Romantic Suspense · Tagged With: , , ,

Review: Pestilence by Laura Thalassa

August 2, 2019 by · Leave a Comment

PESTILENCE
Series: The Four Horsemen #1
Genre: Paranormal Romance
Author: Laura Thalassa
Release Date: September 14, 2018

They came to earth—Pestilence, War, Famine, Death—four horsemen riding their screaming steeds, racing to the corners of the world. Four horsemen with the power to destroy all of humanity. They came to earth, and they came to end us all.

When Pestilence comes for Sara Burn’s town, one thing is certain: everyone she knows and loves is marked for death. Unless, of course, the angelic-looking horseman is stopped, which is exactly what Sara has in mind when she shoots the unholy beast off his steed.

Too bad no one told her Pestilence can’t be killed.

Now the horseman, very much alive and very pissed off, has taken her prisoner, and he’s eager to make her suffer. Only, the longer she’s with him, the more uncertain she is about his true feelings towards her … and hers towards him.

And now, well, Sara might still be able to save the world, but in order to do so, she’ll have to sacrifice her heart in the process.

AMAZON

I cannot decide if you are a toxin or a tonic,” he says, lifting a hand to my cheek. “Only that you plague my thoughts and fill my veins.”

That moment when you read a book that everyone, their mother, their dog, and their uncle Jerry recommended to you…and you don’t like it.
I’m feeling a little like the black sheep of the book community right now because I know just how much so many of my book friends loved this book. And I wanted, so badly, to love it too. I tried, guys. I really REALLY did. But alas, this was just simply not my cuppa.

I’d like to preface this by saying that PNR is my jam. It was the genre the first got me into romance and so to say that I’m incredibly picky when it comes to it, would be a mild understatement. Perhaps that was one of the main reasons why I found this book falling short for me? I dunno. But I will say this, the author clearly has some major writing chops. I can definitely see why so many people enjoyed this one. But for me, there was just too many things that I couldn’t look past that began to chip away at my enjoyment of the story after the 20% mark.

1. The world building. It was there. Kinda? Not really. You get bits and pieces of the horseman and their “purpose” but just not enough for my tastes.

2. The purple prose. Sweet baby jebus the purple prose. I can’t with it, guys, I just can’t. And this book was riddled with it.

When you ignore me, I burn with restlessness; it feels as though the sun has turned its back on the world. And when you smile at me—when you gaze at me like you can see my soul—I feel … I feel like I am lit on fire, like you have been called by God to raze my world.”

On the one hand, it’s beautifully poetic. On the other hand, when it continues on and on, it gets to be too much for this reader.

3. The very many graphic deaths. Now look, I’ve read my share of gory details. I’ve read dark romance and romantic suspense, and I’m definitely no stranger to graphic depictions of death and sickness. But when those deaths are of children and sweet elderly couples? I don’t care what they add tot eh story or how they drive the plot forward, I can’t. I just can’t.

4. The romance. It was just meh for me, guys. I hate to admit it because you can definitely see that it was there, but I just didn’t click with it. It was torture porn disguised as romance, if I’m being perfectly frank. All of the deaths and gore simply overshadowed everything else. And that’s not even bringing up all of the shit that Pestilence puts Sara through.

5. Pestilence. GAH. I would have thought I’d love him, but man did I struggle. And no, it wasn’t because he kills so many innocents in the course of the story. It’s because he was a total beta hero in my eyes. Sure, he’s a big baddie with the diseases spreading and the kidnapping of our heroine after she tries to kill him in order to make her suffer. Sure he’s all tough and weapony and all that jazz. But he’s almost childlike in his idealistic views and understanding of human nature and interactions. I felt no alpha vibes from him in the least, and that’s a must for me. This is clearly a personal preference, so take that with a grain of salt.

Ultimately I found myself growing both bored and irritated with the story and all of the meaningless gory deaths and the back and forth between Pestilence and Sara. It felt almost preachy to me in parts because of the God references, but again, that’s another personal preference. I prefer my PNR to be strictly PNR. I’ve read another series by Larissa Ione on the Four Horseman Eternal Rider and sadly this book just pales in comparison. Perhaps it was because I kept comparing them that worked against it? I dunno. But sadly, this story just fell completely flat for me. I wanted to love it, but I barely got through it.

Would I read the rest of this series? Probably not. But I’ll definitely be giving this author’s other books a try. I loved her story telling, I just didn’t love this book and the concept.

Clearly I’m the lone black sheep here, because countless others absolutely loved this story. So don’t take my word as gospel. This is just one opinion here guys, with plenty of personal biases in play. So give it a shot and see for yourself.

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Review: Resist by K. Bromberg

July 31, 2019 by · Leave a Comment

RESIST
Series: Wicked Ways #1
Genre: Contemporary Romance
Author: K. Bromberg
Release Date: July 30, 2019

From the New York Times bestselling author of the Driven series comes a powerful romance about reaching great heights through low depths.

Who says you have to play by the rules to get what you want?

Agreeing to meet Ryker Lockhart is my first mistake. Rich, handsome, and more than intriguing, he thinks blackmail will bend me to his will.

But he’s wrong.

I may have done a few things that weren’t exactly legal, but I have my own reasons for that. The last thing I’m going to do is let some high-powered divorce attorney come into my life, have my body, and rule my heart. Not to mention ruin everything that I have carefully built in just a short amount of time.

But as much as I try to resist him, and against my better judgment, there is something about him that has me agreeing to his proposal.

I’m putting everything on the line for him. I just hope I won’t lose everything when this is all over.

AMAZON

“It won’t be as easy as you think to walk away from the high life. Money is a powerful thing. Once you have it, it’s hard as hell to live without, Vaughn.”I start to protest but then realize he doesn’t get it. He knows how much he is paying me. He sees the expensive clothes and jewelry I have on but has no clue they are from thrift stores and pawnshops.

“I’ll walk away.”

The chuckle he emits scrapes over my nerves and irritates them. “No, you won’t. You’re addicted to the power of it. Of knowing you can bring a man to his knees. Of the ability to use your body to get exactly what you want.”

“You don’t know a thing about me.”

But the ghost of a smirk that plays at the corner of his mouth makes me fear he just might. “You don’t have to be embarrassed by it, Vaughn. I get off on the same type of power when I’m in court. It’s a high. Something once you have a taste of, you only seem to want more of.”

“Don’t paint your experience on my canvas,” I murmur.

“Here we are,” he says, pulling my attention to our surroundings instead of to him. We’re standing outside the entrance to The Club, and every part of me deflates a little at the thought of having to go back inside with him.

Of having to play more of the part, when this, me getting to be a little more of myself, has been so unexpected and nice.

“Here we are,” I repeat.

We stare at each other, the shadows of the night playing over his face and reminding me I barely know this man and that I do, in fact, want to know him more.

“I’d be more than happy to drive you home—”

“But—”

He puts a finger to my lips. “But that’s too personal.” He steps into me so that we’re both in the shadows now on the broad sidewalk.

“It’s too personal,” I agree as I draw in the scent of him, the feel of his palms as they run up and down my arms. And for the briefest of moments I forget what I’m doing here and that he’s paid me for it because all I can think about is him kissing me. All I want is him to.

“Why don’t we go—”

His lips close ever so slowly over mine so that I have no choice but to sink into the kiss. A kiss that’s soft and tender when every other one we’ve shared thus far has been raging with a lascivious desire.

But not this one.

My body heats up nerve by nerve. Muscle by muscle. Sensation by sensation.

Until he leans back so his forehead rests against mine and we breathe in the same air.

“Good night, Vaughn.”

What?

My head snaps up as Ryker takes a step back, regret owning every part of his expression, including the desire warring in his eyes.

“I don’t understand.” Flummoxed, I stand where I am and just watch him as he takes another step back and points to the taxi pulled up to the curb at my back.

“Your cab is here.” His smile is pained.

“But . . .”

He lifts a hand in silent goodbye before he turns the corner, leaving me staring after him as the taxi driver ushers me into the cab.

Tears sting my eyes as he pulls away from the curb.

Ryker just gave me exactly what I asked for—no sex—and yet every part of me is confused by it.

Because I want him.

And now I’m not exactly sure what I’m supposed to do about it.

She’s like goddamn lightning—that’s what she is. She strikes without warning and is going to singe every damn part of me no matter what kind of shelter I try to hide under.

This book. OMG y’all!!! This. Book.

*licks every finger*

This was one of the most delicious enemies to lovers books I’ve read in a while. I can’t even. Still can’t even. It was just that satisfying.

I’ve been a long time fan of K. Bromberg, but I never expected her to write THIS level of alphahole. But not only did she, but she made me fall head over ovaries for the man, all logic forgotten.

Now let’s talk about this for a hot second, because I will say that if serious alphaholes aren’t your jam, this book isn’t for you, my friend. But this girl? Devoured it with the type of fangirling glee that this author seems to bring out in me. GAH!

I’m not a fixer. I’m not a man who wants to step in and save the day. Far from it. I’m too goddamn selfish to be that way. So why am I walking into this knowing there’s bound to be complications?

Rycker Lockhart is a devastatingly handsome and incredibly successful divorce attorney. He’s cold, ruthless and all business. He learned early on that women are a complication that he doesn’t need beyond a night. He’s also the demanding client of a secret escort service that caters to the rich and power hungry.

The heroine is the owner of the escort service that’s doing what she needs in order to get something that means the world to her with all the odds stacked against her. She’s tough as nails yet with a core of vulnerability that I couldn’t help but connect to immediately. This is a woman that has no problem being the first to say no to Ryker, who’s none too pleased to hear it. But then he makes her an offer that she’d be insane to turn down.

The story is one big power play in motion and I for one devoured it. The constant push and pull, back and forth, cat and mouse game that these two had going utterly owned and captivated me. I couldn’t get enough of it, no matter how frustrating it got. It was just so delicious. UGH.

Ryker is almost maddening in the games he plays. The man is ruthless with a capital R. This is no knight in shining armor. This is a man with some demons and an ice wall around his heart. I was completely enraptured by him. As much as he frustrated me at times, I still couldn’t get enough of him.

The characters are multilayered and the author peels back their layers page by page, until you’re ravenous for more. They both have so much depth, which I seriously loved. It’s so much more than a power play between a ruthless man and a desperate woman. There’s plenty of secrets and twists that will keep you glued to the pages. And then that ending!!! I. DIE. I need. NEED the next book desperately!!!

New York Times Bestselling author K. Bromberg writes contemporary novels that contain a mixture of sweet, emotional, a whole lot of sexy, and a little bit of real. She likes to write strong heroines, and damaged heroes who we love to hate and hate to love.


A mom of three, she plots her novels in between school runs and soccer practices, more often than not with her laptop in tow.

Since publishing her first book in 2013, Kristy has sold over one million copies of her books across sixteen different countries and has landed on the New York Times, USA Today, and Wall Street Journal Bestsellers lists over twenty-five times. Her Driven trilogy (Driven, Fueled, and Crashed) is currently being adapted for film by Passionflix with the first movie slated to release in the summer of 2018.

She is currently working on her Everyday Heroes trilogy. This series consists of three complete standalone novels—Cuffed, Combust, and Cockpit (late spring 2018)—and is about three brothers who are emergency responders, the jobs that call to them, and the women who challenge them.

She loves to hear from her readers so make sure you check her out on social media or sign up for her newsletter to stay up to date on all her latest releases and sales: http://bit.ly/254MWtI

Connect with K. Bromberg

Website | Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | Amazon | GoodReads

Join her Reader Group: http://bit.ly/1PMUoG3

Stay up to date with K. Bromberg by joining her mailing list: http://bit.ly/254MWtI

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Review: Nothing But This by Natasha Anders

July 30, 2019 by · Leave a Comment

BroNOTHING BUT THIS
Series: Broken Pieces #2
Genre: Contemporary Romance
Author: Natasha Anders
Release Date: July 30, 2019

A married couple yearns to rediscover lost love in this novel about forgiveness, reconciliation, and emotional growth.

It’s always been complicated between Libby Lawson and Greyson Chapman—and married life isn’t any simpler. But when Libby gets pregnant, she at last sees a bright future ahead. There’s just one problem: Greyson says he’s sterile.

Furious, Greyson abandons the young family. Equally furious and deeply hurt, Libby cuts all ties with him. After all these years, it seems their relationship has finally expired. But love is resilient and endures even when you don’t want it to. Greyson still longs for Libby, and though Libby’s heartbroken by Greyson’s lack of trust, she holds out hope for a complete, happy family.

And so they embark on the journey back to each other, wary of all the obstacles between them. It’s been a long road already—one strewed with fear, doubt, and misunderstandings. Will they keep looking to the past, or will they look to each other and walk hand in hand toward a broad new horizon?

AMAZON

I’ve been trying to find the right words. The proper combination of sounds that would make you forgive me, that would make up for what I said and did. But those words don’t exist.”


Ever since Natasha Anders introduced Grey and Libby in More Than Anything, I’ve been completely enamored and invested in their story. If there’s one thing that I love more than a hero that royally screws up with his woman, it’s watching him grovel to get back into her good graces again. And this book? It’s one long, delicious, and emotional grovel.

Now I love a good alphahole as much as the next girl, but this book didn’t focus on that. You get plenty of Grey’s generally cold disposition in the first book. Enough of it to know that when the man makes a mistake, it’s the biggest mistake of his life. This book focuses on him dealing with the repercussions of that mistake and trying to grovel his way back and somehow make amends. You get flashbacks of what transpired to bring Grey and Libby to the point where they are now. I loved that Libby really grew into herself in this book. She goes from a besotted girl to a woman that’s not afraid to make him work for it. She’s not willing to forgive and forget, nor should she. I mean, the man thought their child was the result of an affair.

The flow is really organic and the pacing is superb. It highlights every bump along their road and twists and turns your heart right along with them. Their journey is painful and emotional and totally enrapturing.

Nothing But This was a painfully beautiful story of second chances. It was sweet, funny, and utterly gut wrenching in parts. It wasn’t an overly angsty read but it was certainly an emotional one. I really loved this book. It was a gripping and charming and hits every single feel.

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Review: The Guy On The Right by Kate Stewart

July 29, 2019 by · Leave a Comment

THE GUY ON THE RIGHT
Genre: Contemporary, New Adult Romance
Author: Kate Stewart
Release Date: July 29, 2019

Strike One-My mother named me Theodore after her favorite chipmunk.

Not cool, Mom.

I‘ve spent most of my life answering to Teddy, because I couldn’t make Theo work.

Except for here. College. The place where all bets are off, and I’ve managed to redeem myself.
There’s only one problem, my new roommate, Troy, is football royalty and looks like he stepped off the set of an Abercrombie shoot.

Doesn’t matter, I cook a mean breakfast for his panty parade, and we get along well.
And anyway, this year I got the girl. And she’s perfect.

That’s right. Theodore Houseman, former band geek, now marching band rock star has finally landed the girl of his dreams.

Everything is perfect.

That is, until Troy takes a good look at her.

I’m not going down without a fight. As a matter of fact, I’m not going down at all. As glorious as these days may be for my all-star roommate, Laney is my end game.

I may not know much about play strategy, but I’ve been the good guy my whole life. I’ve been listening and I know exactly what women want. Framed in a picture standing next to me, Troy may seem like Mr. Perfect, but he’s underestimating the guy on the right.

Spoiler alert: In this story, the underdog is going to win.

AMAZON

We shouldn’t fit, but we do, and our fit is nothing short of spectacular. There’s no wool in the world thick enough to make me blind to that. 

If you’re a fan of the friends-to-lovers trope, this is simply a must read. The Guy On The Right was one of those books that sneaks up on you and makes you fall head over heels. It’s cute, light and somewhat unassuming at first. You meet Theodor, Teddy to his annoying sisters, and his fall fast and hard for his subtle and down to earth charm. The guy is roommates with the biggest manwhore on campus and football royalty. So he’s used to flying under the radar of Troy’s hotness. After his last relationship left him decimated, he’s not exactly the most confident of guys. But then an accidental meeting changes everything.

I’ve most definitely been friend-zoned, or in my case, Teddy’d.

Laney just got out of another disastrous relationship. After coming to the conclusion that she’s been dating the wrong men, she decides that a break from penis is exactly what she needs.

I’m turning over a new leaf. I’m done with Batman.”
“What?”
“It’s a syndrome. A type. I’m done.”
…
“Think about it, Batman is the booty call superhero. Sexy-half face, looks amazin’ in the uniform, BUT, he only answers to the signal, at night. He never takes off his mask and only reveals his true colors once he’s already bedded the girl. I’ve been dating nothing but Batmen.”

When Theo accidentally overhears her drunken breakup and later runs into Laney again, an unlikely friendship blossoms between them. This soon turns to something that catches both of them unaware. The bond between them becomes so strong that it soon leads to the realization that there’s definitely something else beneath the friendly jokes and camaraderie. Something that Theo and Laney are both too nervous to act on so that they don’t ruin their friendship.

Admittedly, the first 40% of the book had a lot of dialogue. The buildup between these two was very much a slow burn. While I love a good slow burn, I did struggle a little to get into the story. There’s a lot of camaraderie that happens that was cute to read about but didn’t feel…necessary. At least not for me. But then, right around the 40% mark, the story totally snuck up on me and clobbered me over the head with the cute feels. I was completely enamored with the characters and the story and couldn’t bear to put it down for even a second. I was totally sucked in!

The second half of this book was absolute swoony perfection. I loved watching Theo really come into his own and let that hidden dominant side out. I loved that he was a genuine nice guy but still very much an alpha. I adored his protective and sweet side. And I absolutely fell head over heels for his insecure and vulnerable side.

Laney was a wonderful heroine. I loved her sass and backbone and the way she wasn’t shy about fighting for Theo, even if it was Theo himself. I loved how she loved him. But I especially loved watching their relationship slowly and organically blossom into something more. At first I was afraid that she had more chemistry with Troy and Theo would fade into the background. But I was so happy that wasn’t the case. Theo was very much the center of the story.

This was one of those light hearted and funny romances that’s slow to start but sizzles oh so hot when it finally gets going. Adorably sweet with just the right amount of sexy, it stole my heart and kept a smile on my face from beginning to finish. I can’t wait to get Troy’s story next!

Leave a Comment · Filed Under: All Reviews, Contemporary Romance, New Adult · Tagged With: , ,

Review: The Simple Life by @TaraSivec

July 25, 2019 by ·

THE SIMPLE LIFE
Genre: Contemporary Romance, Romantic Comedy
Author: Tara Sivec
Release Date: October 19, 2018

*A standalone romantic comedy with a lot of heart*

Brooklyn Manning thought her life was perfect in every way, until it crumbled down around her and turned into a dumpster fire. With her pride wounded and her tail tucked between her legs, she leaves New York and goes back to her tiny hometown of White Timber, Montana.

No more twenty-four-hour taco trucks, no more shopping at the best designer stores within walking distance, no more giving taxi drivers the finger when they angrily honk at her. She didn’t think it could get any worse. But then Clint Hastings walked into the room and insulted her.

Her arch nemesis from high school is no longer a nerdy computer whiz, masturbating to pictures in PC World magazine in his free time (allegedly). He’s grown up to be a hot-as-hell cowboy, and she has no other choice but to be a smart ass right back to him. After all, it’s what they do. It’s what they’ve always done, and twelve years apart hasn’t changed anything.

Only this time, getting under each other’s skin is a hell of a lot more fun than it used to be.

AMAZON

Fighting with you every day for a month has made me happier than getting along with someone else all my life.”

The queen of RomComs strikes again with this golden nugget of a book! It combined some of my biggest reader catnips; enemies to lovers, sassy heroine, and a single dad. And yes, it IS as delicious as it sounds.

Brooklyn Manning couldn’t wait to escape the simple life of her small home town. Now she has it all; a great career, a great boyfriend, parties in Manhattan, and a rocking wardrobe to boot. Until her entire life turns on it’s stiletto heel when her boyfriend turns out to be a cheating bastard, her career is ruined, and while she keeps her rocking wardrobe, she now gets to rock it as she licks her wounds while crawling back to her home town with her tail tucked between her legs. But even through all that, she never loses her sense of humor.

Yes, I’m still holding a grudge about that shit. Grudges and I are old friends. We have wine together every Thursday and talk about old times and all the people we hate. It’s a very therapeutic relationship.

But not everything is bad. She gets to see her bestie who still lives there and she has a job set up by her grumpy father. Unfortunately for her, it turns out that her job is wrangling two little monsters who happen to be the adorable children of the man that she’s bumped horns with since she was a child.

And then there were sparks!

Clint Hastings is no longer the computer nerd that clashed with her in her youth. He’s now the uber sexy cowboy that clashes with her in her adulthood. If ever there was hate lust, these two have it. I mean GAH! So good!! I loved the sassy barbs that constantly flew between them. And when Clint finally pursues something between them? DELICIOUS.

Clint’s adorable little trouble makers of children were the perfect secondary characters. I loved watching Brooklyn unwilling bond with them. The romance was perfectly paced and so incredibly satisfying. The humor adding an added zest to it that took it from delicious to finger licking good.

If you’re looking for a sexy romcom that will keep you giggling from beginning to finish with perfectly flawed characters in a charming small town, look no further. This one is a must read!

· Filed Under: All Reviews, Contemporary Romance · Tagged With: , ,

Review: Convict by @AZavarellibooks

July 22, 2019 by · Leave a Comment

CONVICT
Series: Sin City Salvation #2
Genre: Contemporary Romance, Dark
Author: A. Zavarelli
Release Date: July 22, 2019

From the shadows, I’ve tracked her every move.

I was just supposed to watch her. But now, I can’t stop.

She’s my obsession. My addiction. My poison.

Watching her isn’t enough.

The savage in me won’t be satisfied until I take her and make her mine.

One taste and I’m hooked. Too bad for her… I’m never letting her go.

 

**

Stalked. Hunted. Captured.

He took me from my life and locked me away in his compound.

The ex-con. The big bad biker. Inked, bearded, and inhumanely sized.

And yet, every time he looks at me, I melt.

This broken beast hides demons behind those brutal eyes. I hate him… and I crave him. His touch, his words, his lips.

When my enemies come for me, he vows to protect me as long as I do what he says. I’ll be secure in this prison he created for me.

But who will protect me from him?

 
AMAZON

 

Birdie Blue was my fucking nightmare and salvation wrapped up into one terrifying package. She’d left her mark on me, branding it into my rusted up broken-down heart.

I’ve been itching for Birdie’s story ever since she was introduced in Confess, but I never expected for her story to blow me away quite like this. I was riveted to the pages. I was rabid in my need for more. I was addicted to the story and the characters and I couldn’t get enough. Convict was one deliciously gritty ride that was packed full of emotion and an unorthodox kind of romance that you can’t help but root for. It was freaking fantastic is what I’m trying to tell you here, people!!

Zavarelli is one of my go-to’s when it comes to dark romance. This series is somewhere in the middle. It’s dark, but not too dark. It’s gritty. But it’s certainly not a walk through the park either. It’s perfectly balanced and I loved that about it.

Ace owned my attention from the second he appeared on the pages of Confess, but when you get a peek inside his head? Stick a fork in me, I’m done! This beautifully broken man that’s damaged almost beyond repair stole my heart and I never want it back. You know that this man has been through something dark in his past, but nothing prepares you for the reality of it. He’s this perfectly imperfect character that you can’t help but fall for.

Birdie is quite the damaged character herself. If you’ve read the first book then you already have a pretty good idea about her dark childhood. But what you didn’t know and discover here, is the amount of depth she has. This is not quite the happy go lucky little sister that you think you know from the previous book. This is a woman with her own hidden demons and a heart of gold. She’s strong and a fighter and I connected with her from the very first page.

Now when you put the two of them together? Instant fireworks. Ace essentially kidnaps Birdie and keeps her on lockdown for her own protection. But there’s plenty of secrets that Birdie has that throw a few wrenches in those plans. There’s so much that happens here that I can’t even begin to describe nor do I want to, because you simply must experience it.

But what I’ll tell you is that it’s action packed and quick paced and darkly spell bounding. It was a page turner from beginning to finish. The chemistry between Ace and Birdie is incendiary. i couldn’t get enough of the two of them together and the author did an incredible job with the pacing and the development of their relationship. It was perfect. In short, I fucking LOVED this book!
Zavarelli is a USA Today and Amazon bestselling author.

She likes all things chocolate, books that come with warnings, and putting her characters through hell. Her tales have been known to flirt with darkness and sometimes court it unabashedly altogether. Revenge themes and tortured souls are her favorites to write and this gives her an excuse to watch bizarre and twisted documentaries in her spare time.

She currently lives in the Northwest with her lumberjack and an entire brood of fur babies.

Connect w/A. Zavarelli:

Website | Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | Bookbub | Goodreads | Amazon | Newsletter Signup

 

Leave a Comment · Filed Under: All Reviews, Bikers, Contemporary Romance, Dark, DGR Favorites · Tagged With: , ,

New Release & Review: Lies by Kylie Scott

July 21, 2019 by ·

LIES
Genre: Contemporary, Romantic Suspense
Author: Kylie Scott
Release Date: July 21, 2019

Betty Dawsey knows that breaking things off with Thom Lange is for the best. He’s nice, but boring, and their relationship has lost its spark. But steady and predictable Thom, suddenly doesn’t seem so steady and predictable when their condo explodes and she’s kidnapped by a couple of crazies claiming that Thom isn’t who he says he is.

Thom is having a hellish week. Not only is he hunting a double agent, but his fiancé dumped him, and thanks to his undercover life, she’s been kidnapped.

Turns out Thom is Operative Thom and he’s got more than a few secrets to share with Betty if he’s going to keep her alive. With both their lives on the line, their lackluster connection is suddenly replaced by an intense one. But in his line of work, feelings aren’t wanted or desired. Because feelings can be a lethal distraction.

AMAZON

Now I find out you’re some weird vigilante assassin ninja super-spy, I don’t even know what exactly.”
“Just ‘operative’ is fine. Fits onto a business card easier.”

This book was so much fun! It reminded me of the movie Knight & Day, except it was actually good. *smiles sheepishly* What? That movie was ridiculous. But I did love the concept. And Lies delivered on the delicious promise the blurb brought. Full of action, steam, and enough laugh out loud moments that kept you glued to the pages from beginning to finish!

The story is uniquely fun:
Girl meets boy.
Boy turns out to be a snoozefest.
Girl leaves boy because she doesn’t want to settle.
Her apartment blows up. She gets kidnapped. She gets thrown knee deep into a dangerous game of espionage and betrayal.
Girl finds out her safe and boring (ex)boyfriend is a super agent extraordinaire that’s been lying to her the entire time they were together. Boy turns out to be not so boring after all.
Girl’s entire world gets turned upside down.

Intrigued yet? You should be!

Betty and Thom were so much fun. I loved Thom’s intensity when the real him finally appears and his fierce protectiveness of Betty. This is one badass, people. This man kicks some ass and takes name, and barely breaks a sweat doing it. Man but I loved him.

Betty was one endearing ball of quirk. I loved her character. She’s fierce in her own right and she doesn’t exactly take it easy on Thom when she finds out the huge lie he’s been keeping from her. Plus, considering the woman is a civilian, she certainly handled the whole kidnapping by secret agents and being thrown into a dangerous game of spy kill spy rather well. I mean, I’d probably be peeing my pants in a corner somewhere. But this chick had some tough skin. She managed to come off both vulnerable and yet like she can handle her own and I loved that. She wasn’t perfect and those faults totally worked in her favor and completely endeared me to her.

The story is one action packed ride full of bullets, steam, and secrets and I loved it! If you’re looking for something different but with plenty of the signature Kylie Scott humor, definitely pick this one up!

· Filed Under: All Reviews, Contemporary Romance, Romantic Suspense · Tagged With: ,
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