Review: Rory in a Kilt by Anna Durand

Title: Rory in a Kilt 

Author: Anna Durand 

Publication date: August 31st, 2021

Summary: Rory MacTaggart—uptight lawyer by day, steamy seducer by night.

One night in New Orleans changed my life. But is it for better or worse? The instant I see Emery Granger, I need to possess her. A one-night stand should've been the end of it. Except I can't quite let her go yet.

A marriage of convenience is the best I can offer.

For reasons I can't fathom, Emery agrees to marry me for money, knowing it will last only one year. She is the opposite of every woman I've ever known, and the opposite of me—cheerful, free-spirited, and compassionate. Maybe that's why I need to have her, though I will never love her.

All I know for certain is that living by my rules might destroy us both.

Rory in a Kilt is the third and final book in The Ballachulish Trilogy, a brand-new series based on the first three books in the bestselling Hot Scots series, reborn and retold from the heroes' perspectives.

Review: I was so excited to be able to read this book especially after Aidan in a Kilt. I had a bit of a hard time starring it. Mostly because I think I had read some not so good books so, I took a little break and came back to this one. I absolutely love Emery, she is just as much of a firecracker as her name may suggest. I adore opposites attack books. Mostly because it reminds me of my man and I. I had a small issue with Rory being such a stick in the mud but honestly this book is so good I got over it! I do believe this was my first marriage of convenience book and I have to say it was absolutely worth it! And the accents always hit me in the right spot. I can think of a few people I'd love to do the narration for these books. Unfortunately, they aren't Scottish so it won't happen. Haha. I am very excited to be able to read Spellbound when it comes out! 

Review: Give Me A Reason by A.L. Jackson

Title: Give me a Reason
Author: A.L. Jackson
Publication date: August 30th, 2021
Series: Redemption Hills #1
Stars: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐+

Summary: From NYT and USA Today bestselling author A.L. Jackson comes a single-dad, enemies-to-lovers stand-alone romance about a jaded club owner and his son’s teacher…

Eden Murphy came into my club looking to make some extra cash.
A girl like her didn't belong in a place like this.
She'd get ripped to shreds.
Most likely by me.
There's nothing but sweetness dripping from her sexy little body, and I'm the monster who's salivating to get a taste.

Trent Lawson is the last man I should want.
Dark.
Dangerous.
So wickedly gorgeous he makes my knees weak.
He's also an arrogant jerk who happens to be my new boss.

When I discover his adorable son is also in my kindergarten class, I know I have to keep my distance.

But neither of us can ignore the attraction that flames.
One glance, and our hearts race.
One touch, and we’re aching for what we can’t have.
One night, and we’re falling fast.

Dragging her into my sordid world is wrong.
It doesn’t matter.
Eden Murphy is mine.

Review: This is my first book by A.L. Jackson, I am really looking forward to it! This book is everything I needed and more. Strong dominant man who will kick anyone's ass for those he loves. To me this is not an enemy to lovers book as it was more forbidden then hate. She is sweet and kind but will also do anything for those she loves. The end of this book gave me something I absolutely had not expected, my heart literally dropped. A.L. Jackson I am now determined to read everything you have ever written. I am absolutely unequivocally obsessed. My first 5+ stars of the year. I absolutely cannot wait to read Jud and Logan's stories.

Review: Morgue to Love by Megan Montgomery

Title: Morgue to Love
Author: Megan Montgomery
Publication date: August 24th, 2021
Stars: ⭐⭐⭐⭐

Summary: Dr. Smythe is the youngest, Medical Examiner in Nashville, Tennessee, only I didn't know it last night when she was between my legs and just Soula.

This morning, we meet again as our careers cross paths and if I wasn't concentrating on not spilling my guts from the nasty fumes of this D.O.A., it'd be awkward as hell.

Our eyes meet over the autopsy table...
...ahem...
...cough...
...the autopsy table absolutely covered in melted, gooey human remains that are long past recognizable...

I open my mouth to speak. The name, Soula, is right there on my tongue.
Unfortunately, so is the stench (and taste) of putrescine.

When I wake up on a scratchy, tweed couch with a pounding headache, Soula's handing me something steamy in a Dolly Parton mug. She's just as beautiful in her light green scrubs as she was naked in my bed last night, but her expression is clear—she wants nothing more to do with me.

But I want everything to do with her.

Review: I kind of love that Soula is sometimes telling the story and kind of hate it. But I love Soula with my whole heart she is definitely a strong female lead. I read somewhere that to love the MC is to love thrillers which I do and I think that is why this book is perfect for me. For example in Bones I really connect with Bones because human emotion and conversation is difficult to her but you talk to her about when, where and what happened to the bones and she speaks volumes. I am like that, I am the most awkward person to talk to but if you're talking about something that interests me I am a whole other person. Some parts of this book made me feel dumb. For example the author used "ubiquitous", I had no idea what it meant looked it up, it's ambivalent. Somethings felt over explained, somethings seemed to jump around. I read so many books that I don't generally remember the summary so I didn't know Soula's name so the chapter titles threw me for a bit of a loop. I was about 14% in when I realized I had been reading it wrong. I am not a big fan of Waylon. In his mind  he seems to think he is kind and honest. Honestly he just seems like a bit of a stick in the mud, a prick and a tad narcissistic. I'm really torn on how to score this book, I really love Soula and I understand her family issues. But my patience was running rather thin with the book and I just kind of just wanted to be done. I'm not sure if it was due to the book or the previous bad books I had read. 

Review: Tell Me You Want Me by Willow Winters

Title: Tell Me You Want Me

Author: Willow Winters

Publication date: August 24th, 2021

Stars: ⭐⭐⭐⭐

Summary: I didn’t get to where I am by being nice.

I’m the boss, the CEO, the owner of whatever I want. Right now, that includes every person in this building of the company I just bought. 

I stop at nothing once I’ve decided I’m taking something.

And then she showed up... full of spitfire just for me, the man she's decided is her worst enemy. 

Like I said, I stop at nothing once I’ve decided I’m taking something. This pretty little thing just moved to the top of my "must acquire" list.

Review: I was excited to get the opportunity to review this book. I absolutely adore Willow Winters and although I am not a big fan of workplace romance books I figured give it a shot, she's never disappointed me before. This office romance is quick, hot and dirty. I definitely suggest checking out Willow Winters latest book. For other fans of office romance or just a big fan of Willow this is highly recommend.

Review: Alaskan Reunion by Jennifer Snow

Title: Alaska Reunion 

Author: Jennifer Snow 

Publication date: August 24th, 2021

Series: A Wild River #5

Summary: In the Alaskan wilderness, love blooms in unlikely places—and between an unlikely couple…

Still single, still working at the same bookstore and still pining for the guy who got away, Ellie Mitchell cringes at the prospect of attending her high school reunion. She just can’t face showing up alone—with her dreams of becoming a teacher still unfulfilled—when her ex will be bringing a model-gorgeous plus-one. 

Callum McKendrick has been in love with Ellie since forever, but he’s sure she doesn't take him seriously. Offering to be her date for the reunion—and the post-reunion wilderness retreat—is his chance to show Ellie just what she’s missing by being stuck in the past. But will becoming Ellie's fake boyfriend be enough to prove that Callum is her perfect match?

A Wild River Novel

Book 1: An Alaskan Christmas

Book 2: Under an Alaskan Sky

Book 3: A Sweet Alaskan Fall

Book 4: Stars Over Alaska

Book 5: Alaska Reunion

Review: I had a completely different summary in my head when I started this so it took my brain a moment to wrap around what was happening. I knew it was a school reunion but I must have been thinking of another one like this on my TBR. I love Callum, definitely not his name but all of the rest of him. I think I'll give this book 4.5 stars it was a good read and I'm a little obsessed with their fake romance and how much Callum likes Ellie. I am trying to avoid giving it 5 stars just because it is lightyears better than my last read. It was a little forgettable but once your reading it you remember how sweet it is. I also will definitely be back tracking and reading the first four books in the series because of how sweet this one has been. I want to smack Brent 90% because he reminds me of my toxic ex and 10% because he is a grade A jerk. I've wanted to smack him throughout this whole book. Such a great, quick read.

Review: Taken by the Vampire King

Title: Taken by the Vampire King
Publication date:
Series: Baton Rouge Vampires #1

Summary: Never make a deal with a billionaire, particularly one who’s a vampire . . .

The deal is simple: spend a month with a mysterious billionaire who is the owner of Louisiana’s La Petite Mort Casino, and he’ll forget my father’s gambling debts. If it means saving our family home and business, I’ll do anything.

With his strong, sexy, take charge arrogance, Nicolas Dupont is a mystery to me. But it doesn’t matter how hot he is. This is purely a business arrangement. Nic can have any woman he wants and it makes no sense that he'd be interested in a virgin like me. I’m certainly not about to fall for a guy who thinks he can own me.

So I go hunting for a way to free myself. When I discover I’m the hunted, and there are those who want my blood, Nic claims he can protect me. But can I trust one of his kind?

When this began, I thought I might lose everything. Now I’m not sure if I’ll make it out alive . . .

*Taken by the Vampire King is 66k words, is the first book in a trilogy, and ends on a cliffhanger. It's recommended for 18+

Review: I was looking for a short, quick read to get me out of my book slump and my oh my. This book absolutely did that, I'm actually going to have to read the rest of the series now. Unfortunately I have a book due in a few days so I will be reading that first. Plus, the third and final book doesn't come out until November. I think my only dislike of the novel is they make him seem more like a demon or the devil rather than a vampire. 

Review: Cross by Shantel Tessier

Title: Cross

Author: Shantel Tessier
Publication date: August 20th, 2021
Series: Dark Kings #3
Stars: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Summary: CROSS
Have you ever stood next to a fire and felt the heat of it on your skin? Stared into the flames and thought how amazing it would be to be that free? It changes direction with the wind, destroying everything in its wake.

That's what she felt like.

Alexa was a wildfire that torched everything she touched, and I couldn't wait to be consumed by her.

She was off-limits. Even though I promised to stay away, I couldn't resist. She was the spark I had been missing in my life. The fire I craved. I knew from an early age I was destined to burn in hell, but she was born to walk through fire.

ALEXA
I was single-minded, focused, and independent. Just how my mother raised me. I didn't have time for anything other than myself and work.

Funny how everything can change in an instant when you least expect it.

A King entered my life.

What was supposed to be one night ended up being too many to count. He was afraid that I'd see his darkness, but I couldn't get enough of him.

After all, a fire burns the brightest in the dark of night. And it only takes one match to cause total devastation.

CROSS is the third book in the Dark Kings Series and can be read as a standalone. Due to mature content and themes this book is recommended for readers aged eighteen and over. This novel may contain triggers.

Review: I am definitely reading this out of order.  But because I only have four days to get this review done, I am just going to back track to the first two once I finish this one. So far I'm in love with the book and cannot wait to finish so I can read Titan and Grave. As a pregnant woman I would have appreciated a warning on the miscarriage as it is one of my two triggers. I am just an emotional mess right now. The only thing that saved me from crying is that I hadn't read the first two books yet and am not emotionally invested in those characters. I love how easily this story flows, making it a quick read for me. I love how in a way it focuses more on the story rather than the romance or sex which makes this book absolutely perfect. It's 6 am, I haven't gone to sleep yet and now I'm going to start Titan.

Review: Titan by Shantel Tessier

Title: Titan

Author: Shantel Tessier
Series: Dark Kings #1
Stars: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Summary: TITAN
I know I have a black soul. Bloodshed and danger are what I live for.
A King is supposed to rule his Kingdom using any means necessary to demand respect.
I’m not a weak man… A King kneels to no one.
I’ve only ever cared about one other person in my life, but the thing is, she never belonged to me. And before I could tell her how I felt, she left.
Now she’s returned, needing someone to save her.
Emilee York was always meant to be mine, and I’ll see to it that happens. I always get what I want, even if that means I have to take it.
And she’s no different. She’ll be my queen, one way or the other.

EMILEE
When I left Sin City behind me, I had no plans to return. I avoided everyone, even my friends, to stay in my bubble. I’ve always been the kind to pull away and run when things get difficult.
But one phone call changed everything, and I was racing back. If only I had known what was waiting for me.
Titan reappeared like a ghost haunting me.
One look and I knew he recognized me. I never forgot him or what we shared. Those feelings that no one else knew existed between us.
I ignored them back then, but now they are more intense than ever.
“Get on your knees…” He demanded I kneel for him.
I tried to act like he didn’t affect me, but he knew. He remembered the way I reacted when he would touch me. And just like he was taught to do—he used my weaknesses against me.
He staked his claim, and I became his queen to use how he saw fit.
What makes it worse is that I crave him, and when I kneeled, it was willingly.
But was it for nothing?

Review: I love having a bit of backstory to the characters and that's kind of what reading this gives me since I read Cross first. I love Titan and Emilee. I can't wait to read Bones as I think that will be the next book after Cross. This series so far is a definitely must read. Each book flows into the next so nicely. Once again for Shantel I'm handing out that 5 star.

Review: Show me the Way by A.L. Jackson

Title: Show me the Way

Author: A.L. Jackson 

Series: Fight For Me

Stars: ⭐⭐⭐⭐

Summary: The first sexy, captivating, stand-alone novel in the brand-new FIGHT FOR ME series from NYT & USA Today Bestselling Author A.L. Jackson . . . 

Rex Gunner. 

As bitter as he is beautiful. 

The owner of the largest construction company in Gingham Lakes has been burned one too many times.

His wife leaving him to raise their daughter was the last blow this single dad could take.

The only woman he'll let into his heart is his little girl. 

Rynna Dayne. 

As vulnerable as she is tempting.

She ran from Gingham Lakes when she was seventeen. 

She swore to herself she would never return.

Then her grandmother passed away and left her the deed to the diner that she once loved.

When Rex meets his new neighbor, he knows he's in trouble.

She's gorgeous and sweet and everything he can't trust.

Until she becomes the one thing he can't resist. 

One kiss sends them tumbling toward ecstasy.

But in a town this size, pasts are bound to collide.

Caught in a web of lies, betrayal, and disloyalty, Rex must make a choice. 

Will he hide behind his walls or will he take the chance . . .

Review: After reading Give me a Reason this book is exactly what I needed. Shout out to A.L. Jackson's reading group on Facebook for the recommendation. I knew I wanted to read all of her books I just didn't know where to start! One of my happier moments based on something so simple. I've only ever seen my family spell grandma the way it is in this book, gramma. It makes me happy to know we aren't the only one's. I was a little too impatient trying to figure out what happened to them when they were younger. But I love how A.L. always comes in with some amazing twists. I can't lie I love how she writes her single parent books. Honestly I want to read them all I don't even care if it's out of order. The main characters in this story absolutely stole my heart and each others. I can't wait to read Hunt me down!

Review: Fated by K.K. Allen

Title: Fated

Author: K.K. Allen

Publication date: August 17th, 2021

Series: Enchanted Gods

Summary: Katrina Summer finally comes to terms with her enchanted skin as she is challenged with an evil that threatens Apollo Beach.

In a desperate search for her missing locket, Katrina is swept into a whole new world of mythological enchantment that places her at the helm of a looming threat. As she makes new discoveries about her bloodline and meets descendants of other enchanted breeds, she unearths the most disturbing Summer family secret of all.

Amid the chaos, Katrina is determined to maintain whatever normalcy she can. She accepts a job at Island Grille where the devilishly gorgeous bartender, Johnny Pierce, makes life even more challenging. Katrina struggles between her lingering and undeniable attraction for Alec, the secrets she must keep from him, and a betrayal she never sees coming.

Mysterious deaths, signs of pollution rising in the bay, the discovery of fated love, and the dark history that follows her enemy's motives stir up an entirely new and frightening adventure. Katrina discovers that being an Enchanter holds a responsibility that might just be worth killing for.

FATED is Book 2 in the all-new ENCHANTED GODS series.

Review: The first thing I have to say is if you have not read Cursed yet. Read that one first, I highly suggest reading the series in order. The second thing is just to reiterate that I think Johnny will end up being the good guy, with Alec as the bad guy. I called it from the first book so I felt like I had to say it again before I begin. Honestly even if Johnny ends up being the bad guy he will forever be my favorite. About 25-30% into the book I learned so much new information that I had questions and all sorts of guesses running around my head. I loved all the twists and turns. Just like Cursed, Fated was such a smooth and easy read. How DARE the book end the way it did!? It is absolutely not fair. Even though it ends in a way that makes me absolutely need the next one I love the way it ends. I absolutely cannot wait to read Taken. If I could give this book an 8 out of 5 I would. But my scale only goes to 5+ this whole series so far has been a must read.  I honestly think I'll be reading it again once the full series is out.

Review: The Traitor by Abigail Owen

Title: The Traitor 

Author: Abigail Owen
Publication date: August 16th, 2021
Series: Fire's Edge #5

Stars: 3.5

Summary: Decades ago, rogue dragon shifter Rune Abaddon took a stand against the decaying, corrupt systems governing their people. He now uses his bad-ass reputation to protect the innocent as it all comes crashing down. But he’s pushed the limits one too many times. His hideout is destroyed, his few allies are scattered and hiding, and the Alliance has placed a dead-or-alive bounty on his head, making him the most wanted dragon in the western hemisphere.

And then the most enticing woman he’s ever met barges into his mountain, demanding an audience.

Hadyn Reece's future was ripped away long ago. The man fated to be her mate was murdered alongside her parents before Hadyn was old enough to be turned, leaving her to be raised and trained by her dead mate’s parents in the dragon shifter world. Now, the Alliance has come for the only family she has left. It’s a good thing she was raised by dragons, because the only one who can help her save them is a traitor she’d be smart to fear.

Especially when his dragon decides she’s theirs.

Review: Some parts of this book I really loved, other parts had me just skimming. It made me really want to read the Firelight series again. I really enjoyed the bit with the succubus, however it happened really quickly and didn't seem to connect. But it is possible that by that point in the book I just couldn't focus long enough for it to connect like it was supposed. In general I loved Rune and I loved how Hadyn was basically a mind reader to him. Unfortunately this is definitely a novel I won't read again or continue the series. I love shifter books especially with dragons but this one just didn't do it for me.

Review: The Sinner by Emma Scott

Title: The Sinner 

Author: Emma Scott 

Publication date: August 15th, 2021

Stars: ⭐⭐⭐

Summary: Shy, introverted Lucy Dennings lives a quiet little life in New York City, working for a nonprofit and keeping to herself. Every afternoon, she goes home to her empty apartment and Edgar, her houseplant, and every night, she loses herself in the pages of her beloved romance novels. Her lonely heart seeks solace in tales of passionate, enduring, all-consuming love, but more and more, Lucy feels she's not just reading for pleasure but searching for a lost piece of herself in the pages. As if she once touched something beautiful but it's been ripped away. 

Until one day Lucy discovers a dead body in the alley behind her apartment. Even if it's too late, her first instinct is to help. 

Her second is to run. 

Because the dead body isn't so very dead, and suddenly, her little world isn't so little but one in which dreams feel like memories, "inner demons" actually lurk in dark alleys, and a beautiful creature of darkness with amber eyes and wings like night might hold the key to what her heart has been aching for...if she doesn't fall down the path of eternal damnation first. 

From USA Today and Wall Street Journal bestselling author, Emma Scott, comes an emotional paranormal love story of passion, sacrifice, and the soul-deep love of a lifetime...more than one. 

Review: At 12% in I'm... well bored. I'm just waiting for the uptick in the storyline. One thing I do like about this book is he seems to be encouraging her into self love which I think everyone needs. The book is truly beautiful but it's just not my taste. I really liked the ending. I recommend it to others who have read her writing before. Check out a few other reviews to get a different view, please!

Review: Outlaw by R.L. Caulder

Title: Outlaw

Author: R.L. Caulder 

Publication date: July 16th, 2021

Series: Pack Prophecy #2

Summary: Behind every woman scorned is probably a person who made her that way. For me, it was more than one. It was an entire pack.

I was exiled for exposing a murderous traitor. I was rejected by my mate, our bond shattered forever.

Even after being chosen by our goddess, my powers and title will never be enough for them to stand by me.

Now plagued by frequent and debilitating visions of battle and death, my mates and I must fight to assemble an army with no one but our goddess at our back.

Because war is coming, and not everyone will survive. But I was chosen for a reason. I will lead an army if I must.

I will stand in the gap and protect my people and their future, no matter what they’ve done. I will fulfill my prophecy.

Even if it means my death.

***Author Note:. This book has a 18+ warning and is intended for mature audiences. It is book two in The Pack Prophecy series which will end in a cliffhanger.

Review: I have been very much looking forward to this book. I actually got KU just so I could read it. Jameson really became a better man in this book. I love Morgan she makes me wish I had a younger sister and so excited for my daughter to get here. Seth is quickly becoming my favorite of her mates and Tian. I love how each one helps her in different ways. These cliffhangers absolutely kill me but I suffer through them with knowledge that I'll be able to finish the series happily. I'm very curious as to what will happen in the third book, due to the title I have a general idea but I already know I'm going to miss these characters. 

Review: Saved by the Spell by Susanna Shore

Title: Saved by the Spell

Author: Susanna Shore 

Publication date: August 15th, 2021

Series: House of Magic #2

Summary: Magic and I hadn’t exactly had a good start, but thanks to a spell that made me repulsive to men, I was seriously considering becoming a witch hunter.

A chance encounter with a charming stranger makes Phoebe dream of a happily-ever-after, until she learns that there’s a spell on her that makes her repulsive to men. Luckily her boss, Archibald Kane, and her new landladies are experts on magic. Only this one seems to confound them all.

Who has spelled her and why? Is it a challenge on Kane’s leadership of the mages? Or is there a more sinister game afoot?

Phoebe doesn’t mind the space men give her in the tube, but her cousin’s engagement party is coming up. How is she to celebrate, if she makes half the guests nauseous? And how is she to charm the man of her dreams when she suspects he’s part of the problem?

It might take the Archmage to break the spell—if only they could find him. A spell may be needed to save them both.

Review: I am so thankful to Netgalley for providing me with the second book in the series. I started reading it as soon as I was approved. The ending of this book was everything I could have hoped for. I cannot wait to see what Susanna brings out for book three, in the mean time I think I need to read like literally every other book she has written. I absolutely love her writing style. The characters are lovable and well written all growing in their own ways. I cannot wait to see what becomes of Kane as well in the next book. I highly recommend this series.

Review: Then You Saw Me by Carrie Aarons

Title: Then You Saw Me 

Author: Carrie Aarons 

Publication date: August 12th, 2021

Summary: You know what’s guaranteed to send your heart into your throat? Opening the front door of your off-campus house to find the boy you had a crush on all through high school telling you he’s the new subletter.

Of course, he barely knew I existed back then, and still doesn’t even though we attend the same university. But in a house of six college kids, it should be easy to remain invisible while carrying a torch for him. After all, I’m skilled at being overlooked and playing second fiddle.

Except Austin Van Hewitt, my hometown’s golden boy, doesn’t get the memo. After we throw our first party of the year, I’m on his radar and somehow my lips miraculously end up on his. The budding romance is one I’ve always dreamt about. As he shows more and more interest, I push aside the plaguing insecurity of never being good enough.

But then a letter shows up in our mailbox. A time capsule I wrote to myself when I was fifteen. You know, the kind where a teacher sends it to you years later? Guess who opens it by mistake and reads all about how I plan on marrying him and having his babies one day? Did I mention I signed it using his last name?

Mortifying would be an understatement. After he starts pulling away, I’m once again the girl in the background hoping that someone will understand me enough to pay me all of their attention. 

The old me, the one conditioned to settle for what she’s given, would back down. This time, though, if I want everything I almost held in my hands, I’ll have to speak up. I’ll have to admit exactly how I feel, fight for the love that was blossoming. And I’m not sure what’s scarier; voicing my inner thoughts or facing his ultimate rejection.

Review: I absolutely adore Carrie's writing so when I saw an opening on the ARC team for this book I absolutely jumped at the chance. Carrie's writing always flows so beautifully, she was one of the first authors to make me cry from her words. Bevan is not the main character of this book but I really hope she gets her own because it would be amazing. With her whip smart, no fucks given attitude, the man to win her heart would need balls of steel. I do love how awkward Taya is. I love how Taya and Austin bond over their shitty families, sometimes it's the easiest way to connect with people. I love a good HEA.

Review: Curse of the Crow by Abbey Fox

Title: Curse of the Crow 

Author: Abbey Fox

Publication date: August 10th, 2021

Summary: SHE DIDN’T WANT TO FALL FOR HIM. SHE HAD NO CHOICE.

Nava Darrion stumbled upon her soulmate when she was young. A brief meeting with a hooded stranger forever bound her to a man she wanted nothing to do with. Her parents were also soulmates, marrying despite her father not being a magic-wielder, their forbidden love forcing their family into hiding.

Now parentless, Nava’s life raising her younger brother and selling potions to wary townsfolk has been quiet…and magic-free. But when the Society of Crows finds Nava, intent on enslaving her, she flees to the forest, searching for the one person she was told can protect her.

Arkimedes is certainly not what she expected, and her attraction to him is new and unnerving. As the chemistry between them grows, so does her power. With the Society closing in, the two create unexpected alliances, and work in their disagreements. One rejecting magic and the other a powerful, enigmatic fae who has secrets of his own and is determined to change her mind. Nava must decide if she is to follow her destiny or listen to her heart…or maybe discover they are the same.

Review: I absolutely love the start of this book. I normally don't like flashback scenes but this one is the perfect one to open up the book. It hooks you from the very start. Learning where the name of the book came in was rather unexpected but I loved every minute of it. I read this book so fast, I simply couldn't put it down. I cannot wait to see where the series goes. This first book was absolutely addicting. I loved being transported into this world of magic and non-magic a like learning about new creatures I've never heard of before. Simply watching it all unfold in front of my eyes. Is book two here yet!?!?!? Please absolutely read this book!

Review: Inside Job by Monica Rush

Title: Inside Job 

Author: Monica Rush

Publication date: April 2nd, 2019

Series: The Mafia #1

Summary: It’s always hotter… 

Leaving my sweet, innocent Betty five years ago nearly broke me, but as the boss’s top enforcer, my first duty is to protect the family at any cost. Even if that cost meant never seeing my little honeybee again. Never to taste her kiss, never to see her smile. My sacrifice would have been worth it if it’d guaranteed her safety. 

Only, it didn’t. 

Now I’m back to track down the threats closing in on the only woman I’ve ever allowed myself to love. Betty knows me better than anyone, and I’ll never rest until she’s safe—and back in my arms, forever. 

On the inside. 

I’ll protect her with my life, because she is my life. 

Review: This story is a novella, it only has 82 pages so if you want a quick introduction to the series it shouldn't take too long to read. I have no issues with age gaps, but I draw a very big line at age gaps with minors. Honestly if the kid was like a year older maybe I wouldn't have such a problem but even then I wouldn't be able to date my current boyfriend when I was 18. I'm glad we met later in life, almost 10 years later. Thankfully the only part involving the minor is the 5 years earlier part but it's still weird for me. The warning on the book isn't an actual warning. There should be an actual warning for the age gap and grooming that happened. I really like the story itself and wish it was a full length novel because Hawk is an absolute badass and Betty is an absolute dreamer. 

Review: Outcast by RL Caulder

Title: Outcast

Author: R.L. Caulder

Publication date: March 12, 2021

Series: The Pack Prophecy #1

Summary: She alone will be able to save them–or damn them.”

The dark prophecy that has been passed down since the first pack of shifters is coming to fruition– and I am at the center of it.

An orphaned human taken in by a pack of wolves. The fate of their existence in my hands.

I’ve been treated as the dirt beneath the pack’s paws for years. 

Will they be able to accept my new role when my powers surface? Will I be able to forgive them enough to help them?

The bright spot amongst all the turmoil...finding my three fated. Until one of them rejects our bond.

The one thing I know for sure...death is coming for us all, soon, and the person responsible for it? Their betrayal is going to alter the shifter world forever.

I’ll conquer my powers, protect the packs, and live happily ever after with my men, right?

Wrong.

No one is prepared for the vile truths of my visions to come to light.

Review: Reading the summary for the second time I realized it sounds a lot like a book I tried to read recently but they only had it out by the chapter. I was addicted to reading that book but I never got to finish it. So I really look forward to being able to read this one. I know the book warned me it was going to end in a cliffhanger but I still hated that I was surprised it did. I loved every single second of this book and can't wait to read Outlaw. I absolutely suggest checking out this series.

Review: Luna by Rae Else

Title: Luna

Author: Rae Else
Publication date: September 5th, 2021

Summary: When Romulus killed Remus, the wolf clans swore enmity to one another ever after.
Seventeen-year-old Jess has survived an upbringing in care. Diagnosed with rage blackouts, people look at her with pity and fear. The solution? Brutal workouts, Art - oh - and staying the hell away from others. Easily done in backwater Maine. 
Yet one night, she wakes to find herself by a lake, her clothes covered in blood, with no memory of what happened. Soon the water is aflame and a portal opens. Transported to the Triodia Penitentiary, she discovers she's a shifter, a type of para. She's accused of murder and locked up.
Desperate to find a way out, she turns to her fellow inmates for help. Yet as they mount an escape, the enemies circling her increase. Will Jess survive unlocking the dangerous Heights and Depths of the para world and those within herself?
Luna is the first in a four-book series, The Dark Between. A decadently dark YA Fantasy full of Heights and Depths that will leave you craving more. Perfect for fans of Laini Taylor and Sarah J. Maas.

Review: I absolutely love this book. I almost finished it in one day. I ended up taking longer than expected but I know that's on my attention span and not on the book. I was reading it at night and I got a little freaked out. The book is not scary it was something in my house but it made it difficult to continue. There were two things that bothered me a little bit about this book one is that even though she thought she was human her whole life she instantly starts saying "by alba" all the time the second she learns she's not. The second is the ending, I understand that the book will be in a series but it feels like it just slams to a stop. She gets somewhere and then the book just ends. I do love the twists of her bloodline, I spent a good chunk of the book just trying to figure out who her parents were and when you find out it's a wonderful shock. I cannot wait to see how she reacts when she finds out.

Review: Sweet, Sexy Heart by Melissa Foster

 

Title: Sweet, Sexy Heart

Author: Melissa Foster 

Publication date: August 4th, 2021

Summary: Discover the magic of New York Times bestseller Melissa Foster's writing and see why millions of readers have fallen in love with the fiercely loyal and sassily sexy characters in the Love in Bloom big-family romance collection. All Love in Bloom books can be enjoyed as stand-alone novels or as part of the larger series.

In SWEET, SEXY HEART...

Amber Montgomery is perfectly happy with her quiet life. She loves running her bookstore, taking long walks with Reno, her Labrador retriever seizure-response dog, and spending time with her close-knit family. She’s never needed thrills the way some of her sisters have. In an effort to control her epilepsy, she tries to avoid anything that creates too much excitement or stress—including relationships. When Amber hosts a book signing for famed-athlete-turned-author Dash Pennington, he’s everything she’s spent her life avoiding: loud, aggressive, and far too handsome, as proven by the hordes of women who surround him everywhere he goes. Amber can’t ignore the sparks flying between her and Dash, but this is a no-brainer for her: Ignore their chemistry and hold her breath until he leaves town.

Dash Pennington has spent his life running. Running the ball in for a touchdown, running from town to town to appease his public relations reps, and for years, running into the arms of too many women to count. He’s also an expert at protecting—his reputation, his family, and lately, his sanity. But he’s ready to make a change. When he comes to the sleepy little town of Oak Falls, Virginia, and witnesses the most beautiful woman he’s ever seen living the life he craves, she refuses to have anything to do with him. But now that Dash has found the one thing he doesn’t want to run from, he’ll stop at nothing to win her over.

**

Within the Love in Bloom big-family romance collection, characters from each sub-series appear in future books.

Snow Sisters

The Bradens at Weston

The Bradens at Trusty

The Bradens at Peaceful Harbor

The Bradens & The Montgomerys

The Remingtons

Seaside Summers

Bayside Summers

Steeles at Silver Harbor

Wild Billionaires After Dark

Bad Billionaires After Dark

Harborside Nights

Tru Blue and The Whiskeys: Dark Knights at Peaceful Harbor

The Wickeds: Dark Knights at Bayside

Sugar Lake

Harmony Pointe

Silver Harbor

Review: I really wanted to like this book especially since it is an interconnected standalone with a bookstore owner lead. I love me a mix of Nerdy and Sporty, it's always the perfect combination. For some reason this book just started off slow for me. I didn't understand her hesitation to be with him. She blamed it on her Epilepsy, as a person with stress induced seizures I just didn't understand. When I was having mine I was still living my life almost totally normal, dating, going to fairs, watching movies with my cats as a way to calm down. She was trying to shelter herself from a normal life, it was hard to understand and I'm a person who hasn't really left the house in over a year or driven much but here I am getting ready to push a baby out in a few months. What got me to continue to read this book? One word, Dash. He had such great chemistry with literally everyone he spoke to. He had a crazy air of honesty about him and he knew the minute he met her there was just something different about her from all other women and pursued her. He is ridiculously attentive and determined. Honestly there wasn't anything I didn't like about him. Once I got past the small thing that made me not enjoy the book it seemed like she did too. Honestly I think I had an issue reading the book because I had read a poorly constructed book before this one. I took a break read like 5 other books came back and my over analytic mind had calmed down. This book is absolutely so sweet I don't understand how I was ever mad at it. It makes you believe in Fairytales and true love. That's how absolutely beautiful and sweet this book was. Dash is still my favorite character in the whole book but I think if I read any of the other characters in the series I would adore them just as much. Reno also obviously won over a big part of my heart first. I cannot wait to read more by Melissa Foster.

Review: Big Witch Energy by Kelly Jamieson

Title: Big Witch Energy

Author: Kelly Jamieson
Publication date: August 5th, 2021

Summary: Life's a witch, and then you fly...

Romy Larson

The tequila made me do it—throw caution to the wind to take a DNA test. Now I know why “who’s your daddy” is a dangerous question. Dad’s a witch, with a whole magical family I knew nothing about.

Discovering I have magic isn’t the only shock (though it explains a lot). There’s a familiar face among the noisy, joyful Candler clan. A fostered son named Trace—the only other time in my play-it-safe life I did something crazy. A night of madcap fun and sizzling kisses.

Trace Holcomb

For years, I’ve been trying in vain to find a spell to bring my family back after they died. I’ve given up on magic. What good is it if I can’t do the one thing I want so much?

I mistook Romy for my blind date, and it was the best mistake I ever made. Or maybe it’s the worst. When the other shoe—more like the hammer—drops, I learn she’s part of the Candler family, who opened their big hearts to me when my family died.

Now it’s up to me to run Romy through a crash course in remedial magic before she loses it forever. That’s the last thing I want to do. As the smoke clears from her first disastrous spells, something else becomes clearer. Our attraction wasn’t a fluke. And she could be the key to making my impossible dream come true…

Review: I am happy that this is the first book I've read by Kelly Jamieson because I am absolutely obsessed. I literally had to force myself to go to sleep. I love Romy and Trace together. I love how understanding Trace is and patient. I love the Candler family honestly if this turns into a series with the whole family I will absolutely read every single book. This family is so loving and supportive. The magic is so enthralling to me. The romance was almost not even important to the story because it was rich in every other way but I'm happy it all played out as it did.

Review: A Void of Magic by Sandy Williams

Title: A Void of Magic

Author: Sandy Williams
Publication date: July 27th, 2021
Series: Kennedy Rain #1

Summary: They trusted her to keep the peace between the paranorms. They made a mistake.
Kennedy escaped the family business when she turned eighteen. Now, an ill-timed vacation pulls her back to The Rain Hotel, the only known null zone on the planet. It’s a place where vampires can see the sun rise and werewolves can avoid the lure of the full moon. And it would be the perfect place for a paranormal wedding…if the bride wasn’t the local alpha’s daughter and the groom the scion of a vicious master vampire.
With a sexy werewolf determined to sabotage the wedding and dark forces threatening The Rain, Kennedy’s life is thrown out of balance when she’s forced to confront a past she swore to avoid. Ultimately she must choose: will she maintain the stability of the supernatural world…or will she destroy it.

Review: I really like Kennedy, I totally understand why she doesn't like being there. I love how as a human she stands up to the paranormal. I do not understand her parents leaving without a specific date to come back on. I would never agree to something without specific dates. It would just drive me crazy. I am pretty sure I'm in love with Blake. Honestly  I love 90% of the characters in this book. My only question is why did the author wait for the last 30 minutes of the book to just absolutely demolish my heart. I'm so ready for Bound by Bloodsong!