Restless by Willow Thomas (Squad Goals Book #2)

TITLE: ⟫ Restless

AUTHOR: ⟫ Willow Thomas

SERIES: ⟫ Squad Goals #2

RATING: ⟫ 4/5

BLURB: ⟫ The Cheerleader and the Football Star

Gio

Kissing Tucker Evans at a frat party was a stupid idea. He’s still getting over his cheating ex and there is no way I am anyone’s rebound guy.

Except when he gets injured, somehow I find myself volunteering to help look after him.

In every sense.

So maybe I will be his rebound. If I know what the score is going in, I can’t be hurt.

Solid plan.

Tucker

Kissing Giovanni Russo at a frat party was a brilliant idea. There was more chemistry in that one kiss than there ever was with my ex.

Now I just have to convince him to give me a chance.

Sharing a bed at his parents house leads to some epic fun times, but he has it in his head that I just want a rebound.

With Gio I want everything.

Restless is a cheerleader/football player MM romance. It has overly helpful friends, forced proximity, one bed, and an accidental grand gesture.

REVIEW: ⟫ I should preface this by saying that I haven’t read Squad Goals Book #1, so many of the characters in this story were unknown to me. That isn’t to say that it can’t be read as a standalone as I very quickly caught up with who was who, and how the ‘lines’ mingled.

Squad Goals was a fun, light, sexy read with both Gio and Tucker being very sweet, loving guys who were just figuring out what they wanted in life. Tucker was cheated on by his ex and, quite rightly, was hurt by it. However, the hurt wasn’t personal to the ex – it was more the general ego bruising that was the issue. Unfortunately, Gio has obviously had experience being the rebound person before and is determined that it isn’t going to happen again. Even for Tucker.

I really liked the way that Tucker didn’t push Gio’s boundaries – he was respectful, understanding and honest about how he felt, and it was good to see both leads be so clear and upfront. The ‘helpful’ friends made me laugh – I loved the idea of just how petty one character was known for being – and I also really liked how supportive they all were in their own, distinct ways.

Gio’s parents made me laugh out loud a few times – his Mom was just absolute gold in her attitude and behaviour, and again, I liked how supportive they were to their son and his friends. I wish there had been a bit more cheerleading involved but that’s a minor quibble. All in all, this was a light, fun read with a decent bit of steam and enjoyable characters.

I received an ARC from the author in exchange for an honest review and have downloaded the first book so that I can catch up on what I missed.

The Marie Sinclair Reader by Marie Sinclair

TITLE: ⟫ The Marie Sinclair Reader

AUTHOR: ⟫ Marie Sinclair

RATING: ⟫ 4/5

BLURB: ⟫ The Marie Sinclair Reader: six stories and novellas that are the perfect morsels of romance. From first times and first loves to meet cutes, sensuous seductions, and second chances, these stories are sometimes sweet, sometimes steamy, but always with an HEA.

Might Delete Later: An epically clichéd breakup leads to the cutest of meet-cutes with love at first text, delicious pastries, and the best dog face ever.

Chef’s Kiss: A sensuous seduction of wine, food, and desire turns a failed romantic dinner into a brand new chance at love.

Man Down: Unrequited love and frustration as volatile as the whitewater rapids that bring a bar owner everything he’s ever wanted with his ex-head bartender if he can only let nature run its course.

Nothing Like a Summer Romance: First loves. First times. It’s everything you could hope for in a summer romance. Maybe.

Same Old Love: A former child actor turned winemaker and a spiraling, out-of-control rock star get a second chance at the love they were never able to have.

Voir Dear: Jury duty a bore? Not when you find yourself sitting next to the guy you haven’t been able to stop thinking about since he sent your travel mug flying into traffic.

REVIEW: ⟫ I’ve not read any Marie Sinclair so this seemed like a good opportunity to see if I liked her work. Some of the novellas worked better for me than others – I enjoyed Voir Dear and Nothing Like a Summer Romance the most, although each story was written well. Considering they were novellas, each protagonist was well defined with appropriate backstory and motivations, and the background cast of friends/characters were well done. Occasionally the stories felt a little ‘dense’ descriptively – Chef’s Kiss went into SO much detail about the food and the wine, which for me felt a bit much – it felt like a lot of research went into it and they were determined to get it into the story. Overall, I think it was a nice introduction to the author for me and I would look out for other stories.

I received an ARC from GRR.

Bump in the Night by Nikole Knight & Lily Mayne (Black Oasis book #2)

TITLE: ⟫ Bump in the Night

AUTHOR: ⟫ Nikole Knight & Lily Mayne

SERIES: ⟫ Black Oasis #2

RATING: ⟫ 4/5

BLURB: ⟫ You never know what’s hiding in your closet…

At twenty-six, Ivy has their life figured out. They have a decent paying job at the London office of Somnus Entertainment--the gaming company behind the wildly popular game Black Oasis--a draughty flat they inherited from their wild great aunt, and a few select friends to pass the time. They’re a responsible adult, thank you very much, and while they might get lonely at times, they know better than to put too much stock into that fanciful notion known as love.

But when a skeevy encounter during a fun night at the pub devolves into a violent hate crime, their life changes forever.

Waking up in a demon dimension, beaten within an inch of their life, is bad enough. But add a snarky, haughty healer with the universe's worst bedside manner, and Ivy knows they’re in for a long, excruciating recovery. Lau the Dreamwraith is prickly, arrogant, and entirely infuriating, but for some strange reason, he seems hell-bent on nursing Ivy back to health. Despite Lau’s whinging over their “inferior human qualities,” there is a heat building between them that neither are able to fight. Like a match meeting kerosene, their chemistry ignites, but Ivy’s stay in the demon world is temporary and fire always burns out eventually.

Love is a dream, after all; it has no business in nightmares. Right?

Join Ivy and Lau as they nurture the sparks between them until they explode into an unexpected passion that crosses dimensions in Bump in the Night, the second book in Knight and Mayne’s co-authored queer, monster romance series, Black Oasis.

Bump in the Night is an M/X monster romance full of hurt/comfort, angst, humor, and a sweet, spicy love between a fiery Brit and their arrogant sleep demon. This love story contains explicit content and is not suitable for young readers. Be sure to check the Trigger Warnings at the beginning of the book for more details

REVIEW: ⟫ The monster hiding in the closet is a childhood nightmare and is most definitely not meant to be you knight in hefty boots, complete with horns and claws, but then Ivy is not your typical person. So waking up in a nightmare scape to discover that he has been attacked and left for dead and is currently being tended by the world’s most grumpy, annoying and kind demon is something that he pretty quickly learns to roll with. I loved Lau in the first book, so finding out more about him and him gaining his happy ever after was always going to be a winner. I loved the way these two characters interacted with each other, bounced banter and smack-talk back and forth, and were generally both their best and worst selves with each other.

There is the expected heat between them as the authors are known to do, and this book is very sexy. But the thing I am taking away from it is how kind, loving and there for each other Ivy and Lau became – they didn’t need each other but they wanted to need each other which for some reason resonated so hard with me and made me very happy inside.

Catching up with Cody and Nor was brilliant – Nor was such an absolute sweetheart – but Vari cracked me up every single time he turned up on-page. A very enjoyable read and I look forward to reading more in the Black Oasis world.

I received an ARC from GRR.

The Revenge Agenda by Saxon James (Accidental Love #3)

TITLE: ⟫ The Revenge Agenda

AUTHOR: ⟫ Saxon James

SERIES: ⟫ Accidental Love #3

RATING: ⟫ 4/5

BLURB: ⟫ Rush

When I show up to surprise my boyfriend in a barely-there festive outfit, I’m expecting him to be alone.

Not hosting family.

His fiancé’s family.

Down one boyfriend and up a lot of embarrassment, I flee with my tail between my legs. The broken heart will fade. My humiliation, not so much, but my saving grace is the fact that I never have to see either of them ever, ever again.

Until I walk into work and come face to face with my new boss.

Hunter

I never, in a million years, would have guessed the man hiding under his desk at work would be the one person I hoped to never see again.

My ex-fiancé’s side piece.

Apparently I can’t fire the guy because of personal issues, so I try to play nice, which is a whole lot harder to do when I find out my ex is still texting Rush. The same ex I haven’t heard from since I walked out on his begging.

Rush tells me he didn’t know about me. He tells me there were others. He also tells me our ex still wants him and so, we come up with a plan. To show him what it feels like when you want someone who doesn’t want you back.

All we need is a camera. His number. And one shared kiss.

Revenge has never been sweeter.

REVIEW: ⟫ This story was all kinds of sweet! Rush is an absolute darling (as are all of the other Bertha Boys) and it broke my heart when he seemed to accept what Ian had done to him – his view of himself is severely skewed because of his ADHD and the belief that no one would be willing to put up with the way his mind works.

Until, strangest of all things, the man who should by rights absolutely hate him seems to ‘get’ him better than anyone else in the world and he makes Rush feel calm and safe. How else can he repay Hunter for this than by helping him get a little revenge on Ian?

Hunter made me laugh – mainly because of his confusion about Rush and how he found himself dragged into an adventure and relationship almost against his will. I loved how supportive he was of Rush and the way his mind worked (P.L. Ant will live on in my heart forever), his willingness to be open to new suggestions both at work and in his private life, and for the way he saw the Bertha Boys – naked, inappropriate, scary – but ultimately quite possibly the best found family he could have hoped for.

I really enjoyed reading this book, catching up with the other boys and learning more about Rush. The romance was sweet, sexy and steamy and the way in which they got their revenge against Ian was absolutely brilliant. A very good addition to the series and I look forward to reading more about how Xander and the others find their own, well-deserved happily ever after.

Winner Take All by Ellie Roth (Longview Book #2)

TITLE: ⟫ Winner Take All

AUTHOR: ⟫ Ellie Roth

SERIES: ⟫ Longview Book #2

RATING: ⟫ 4/5

BLURB: ⟫ “You cannot just send me a text with the words ‘I think he’s in love with me’ and expect me not to come over.”

When the most powerful magic user in the tristate area loses his powers, Shiki Gonzalez’s ranking goes from third place to second place overnight. Unfortunately, the one thing holding him back from finally claiming the title of grand champion is taking down his old enemy Michael Vernon, and despite eight years of trying, that’s the one feat Shiki has never been able to accomplish. This time, though, Shiki has a plan.

Mehmet Argitakos is thrown for a loop when his longtime crush Shiki approaches him with a Shiki will help Mehmet climb his way up the ranks of the advanced Blizzard tournament if Mehmet teaches Shiki how to fight like the former titleholder, Mehmet’s best friend Chris. But taking down Vernon is a cause Mehmet can definitely get behind—and Shiki’s notorious penchant for casual intimacy doesn’t hurt, either.

As the cold days of training blur into long winter nights, Shiki’s and Mehmet’s worlds slowly start intertwining. But guarded Shiki doesn’t let down the walls around his heart for anyone, and Mehmet wants to be something more than just the next warm body in Shiki’s bed. With the Blizzard on the horizon, will their partnership crack under the strain or evolve into something more?

--

Winner Take All is a contemporary LGBTQ+ romantic fantasy that features a modern world imbued with magic, a slow-burn friends-with-benefits romance, found family vibes, tragic backstories, mild to moderate steaminess, major angst, and a happy ending for our protagonists (with a few plot threads left open for later books). Can technically be read as a standalone, but is best enjoyed after Just Like Magic.

REVIEW: ⟫ I actually struggled with reading this up until about 56%. I was enjoying it but because it was heavy on the training aspect of things and only alluding to the tragic backstory that would make sense of things, I felt that something was missing. I couldn’t connect well with either Mehmet or Shiki and was struggling. Miscommunication isn’t one of my favourite tropes and there was miscommunication aplenty in this story.

However, after 56%, this story flew by! The actual magical tournament, the relationship difficulties between Shiki and Mehmet, Vernon and the consequences of his actions – all of it flowed quickly and efficiently, with some hard-hitting emotional impacts that took me off guard. I remember reading the first Longview book and being a little disappointed in the romantic storyline – this time, I took notice of the ‘mild steam’ warning and wasn’t expecting more. However, the emotional aspect of things was really beautifully handled.

Seeing Mehmet come into himself – truly blossom into the competitor that he should always have been was so satisfying, as was the support from his friends. I enjoyed this story overall more than the first Longview book, with prickly, grumpy Shiki turning into my favourite character! The series seems to be getting better as it goes along, so if you enjoyed the first book then I heartily recommend reading this one.

I received an ARC from GRR.

Bad Pucking Influence by Michele Lenard

TITLE: ⟫ Bad Pucking Influence

AUTHOR: ⟫ Michele Lenard

RATING: ⟫ 4/5

BLURB: ⟫ Thor meets Tony Hawk in this comedic, low-angst/high spice MM romance about a serious hockey goalie who is drawn out of his shell by a bratty skateboarder, a dare involving cake, and a lesson in how to use joysticks-for video games of course.

On the surface, I’ve got it all. I’m the starting goalie and Captain of the Colorado Bulldogs hockey team. I’ve got more money than I know what to do with. I can count an entire team of elite athletes as my friends. And according to the pundits, I’m an eligible bachelor.

That's the image everyone sees, but it’s just a role I play. A part dictated by my career. I have to be just as perfect off the ice as I am on it since everything I do reflects on my team in some way or another. So, those questions I have about why I don’t crave sexual contact the way my teammates do–questions I’m afraid to ask with the world watching… I decided a long time ago it didn’t make sense to look for answers until after I retire.

Then I ran into him.

Tripp is loud, obnoxious, and full of confidence. Some people find his sass off-putting, but not me. I find it intriguing, and I admire his ability to be himself, consequences be damned. Apparently, I also admire the way he looks, since my eyes seem to linger on him longer than they should, and when he sets his sights on me…

Waiting for retirement to explore who I am seems like too big a sacrifice, so when Tripp offers to help me answer some of those questions about myself, I jump.

I'm tired of pretending to be Mr. Perfect… Tripp and his playboy antics might be just the thing I need to figure out who I am outside of hockey. The only problem is, everyone–including our mutual friends–see him as a bad pucking influence.

Bad Pucking Influence is a low-angst, high-spice MM romance featuring a hockey player and a brat, not a hockey book featuring a romance. Fans of bratty playboys and gentle giants will enjoy this light-hearted, steamy yet touching love story.

REVIEW: ⟫ This story was an absolute hoot! I don’t think there was a single sexual thought that crossed Tripp’s mind that he didn’t let out of his mouth and I am SO here for it. As was Noah.

I really enjoyed reading this journey of discovery – for both men – as Noah realises that he isn’t broken just because he’s not wired the same way as other people, and Tripp realises that letting somebody in might just be worth it. I enjoyed the background characters and will be looking out for books featuring them. The sex scenes were numerous, entertaining and inventive (just as Tripp likes them!), and the small side plot near the end didn’t derail things which I was pleased about.

I very much enjoyed reading this and will definitely be looking for more by this author.

I received an ARC from GRR.

When The Law Needs Help by Jackie Keswick (Dwight and Conrad Case Files #1)

TITLE: ⟫ When The Law Needs Help

AUTHOR: ⟫ Jackie Keswick

SERIES: ⟫ Dwight and Conrad Case Files #1

RATING: ⟫ 4/5

BLURB: ⟫ Can love, loyalty, and family step in when the law needs help?

Join Jack Horwood and Gareth Flynn as they tackle murder, secrets, and moral dilemmas in a world where the law isn't always enough - while finding comfort in each other and their home-made family.

The first volume of Dwight & Conrad Case-files stories includes:

Mouse Hunt: When a friend's death and old secrets collide, Jack has no choice but to step up and help.

A Very Bagpuss Christmas: Can adopting a cat really cause so much heartache that Jack considers escaping to Tokyo? Can Gareth fix what's going wrong?

Grand Union Hunt: Gareth lives to help people. But should he obey the law or follow his conscience?

When the Law Needs Help is a collection of three stories set in and featuring the characters from the Power of Zero world.

REVIEW: ⟫ This was a very interesting set of short stories, set in the Power of Zero universe. It was really excellent to be back with Jack and Gareth, to fall back into their world and be swallowed up by the fascinating life they lead.

Jack has always been such a vulnerable character to me, and I worried about him being away from Gareth, Daniel and Nico whilst dealing with his grief from the death of one of the few people in his life that he has been able to rely on. I loved all of the small details that help immerse you in the world – you could almost feel like you were the home they had built for themselves, watching as they used their skills to help people who might otherwise not have a voice.

Before reading, I wondered if I should try to do a quick recap on the previous books, but the details came flooding back as soon as I began reading. Not that re-reading the previous books would have been onerous – I had almost forgotten Jackie Keswick’s ability to throw you in at the deep end whilst ensuring that you could keep up with what was going on – a deft hand is used to keep you interested in the spy/drug dealing/murderous goings on whilst concentrating on the things that matter – the relationships being revealed on page.

This is not a traditional MM romance – Gareth and Jack are an established couple with a rich history – but it was enjoyable to see them working and growing together, with the compromises and promises that they have made to make their relationship work, and the way that they are still learning about each other. I’m quite looking forward to reading more of the Dwight and Conrad Case-files – if you are looking for an immersing, absorbing read with great characters and interesting stories, you can’t go wrong with this series.

I received an ARC from GRR.

Clueless Puckboy by Eden Finley and Saxon James (Puckboys #5)

TITLE: ⟫ Clueless Puckboy (Puckboys #5)

AUTHOR: ⟫ Eden Finley & Saxon James

RATING: ⟫ 4/5

BLURB: ⟫ Quinn

Straining my groin is bad enough. It puts my hockey career, my future, but even worse, my dignity on the line. Having to get massages in that area from Vance Landon, one of the team trainers, is mortifying. It’s impossible to hide my feelings toward him. If my constant blushing and bumbling doesn’t give it away, my body does. It’s getting to the point where I wonder if hockey is even worth the embarrassment.

Trying to avoid him only makes him seek me out more. He’s determined to rehab my injury, but all I want is for him to leave me alone. Or fall for me. One or the other.

Vance

Ayri Quinn isn’t your typical jock … except for the fact he refuses to admit when he’s injured. I’ve seen more than enough professional sportsmen lose the career they love due to injury, and I’m not having it happen again. Especially not when the guy in question happens to be the sweetest, most awkward, innocent jock I’ve ever met.

When a night out leads to Quinn re-injuring himself, I create a care plan that keeps me hands on, literally. Unfortunately, working with him in close proximity brings all those feelings I’ve been trying to ignore to the surface. I just need to get him better so he can be back on the ice and out of my bed. Ah, my massage bed. Because if this goes on any longer, I might mean my actual bed. Ayri Quinn is impossible to resist.

REVIEW: ⟫ This was a lovely, low-angst, amusing read in the style we’ve come to expect from the authors.

Poor Quinn – I felt for him, especially with the heckling he received for his facial hair and just in general. Add to that his complete and utter inability to use his words when around Vance and he made me laugh far too much. Vance not realising the reason for Quinn’s ‘man reactions’ whenever he worked on him also made me laugh, especially when it became obvious that absolutely everyone else knew what was going on.

I enjoyed this story – I liked the way it played out with everyone being adult about things, no ridiculous misunderstandings and people using their words. Amusing, sexy and fresh, this was a lovely read and an excellent addition to the Puckboy series.

Fated Mates Anthology by various authors

TITLE: ⟫ Fated Mates Anthology

AUTHOR: ⟫ Louisa Masters, Nikole Knight, Michelle Frost, Kelex

RATING: ⟫ 2.5 - 4.5/5

BLURB: ⟫ Fated Mates is a Paranormal Romance Charity Anthology from some of your favorite MM authors!

It features new, exclusive stories from Kiki Clark, Mia Monroe, Louisa Masters, Kelly Fox, Sheena Jolie, Jennifer Cody, Nikole Knight, Vinni George, Chloe Archer, Meghan Maslow, Lee Colgin, Kelex, H.L Day, Grae Bryan, AJ Sherwood, Michele Notaro, Lisa Oliver, Ariana Nash, Michelle Frost, and JP Sayle.

All royalties will be donated to the Transgender Legal Defense and Education Fund and the ACLU's Drag Defense Fund.

REVIEWS: ⟫ I received an ARC of four of the stories contained in this anthology.

Aether and the Elements by Louisa Masters

3/5 – I wasn’t a huge fan of this one to be honest. Aether confused/annoyed me simply because so many of his actions didn’t make sense. If he had been through this so many times before, why was he so confused by his mate’s actions/reactions? This felt like it should have been a full length novel rather than the length it was in order for the full back story and climax to be fully realised.

How to Survive a Summoning by Nikole Knight

4.5/5 – This made me giggle so much. I loved Lyn – who wouldn’t fall in love with Lyn? And Jamie was such an absolute sweetheart. I enjoyed the running gags throughout the piece, the hints of further, deeper lore, and the back characters were entertaining and made me want to learn more.

A Werewolf Called Ammon by Michelle Frost

2.5/5 – this didn’t work for me at all. To be fair, I should have known this would be the case after realising it was in the Hellhound called Derek verse, another book that just didn’t work for me. I felt no chemistry between the leads whatsoever, the premise was paper thin and it felt very much like not a lot happened and then it was finished. The weakest story for me.

A Squirrel Gets His Nut by Kelex

3/5 – having just recently read ‘Only Skin Deep’ which is the story following on from this one, I was interested to see how Luca and Ash got together. The idea of ‘wearing’ your mate like a tattoo was intriguing and I wanted to enjoy this far more than I did. Unfortunately, Luca’s feelings about police/authority seemed overblown and although I could kinda understand it, it felt like a bit much. I was also really confused by Luca’s mother and felt like there was much more to that story that we didn’t get to find out. Kudos for the title though!

I received an ARC from GRR but all opinions are my own.

Corin and the Courtier by Eliot Grayson (Beautiful Beasts Book #1)

TITLE: ⟫ Corin and the Courtier (Beautiful Beasts Book #1)

AUTHOR: ⟫ Eliot Grayson

RATING: ⟫ 4/5

BLURB: ⟫ Most people run from beasts, not to them…

Aster didn’t put much thought into his escape. All he knew when he ran up that mountain—straight into the lair of a grumpy dragon knight with a huge grudge against his family—was that he couldn’t submit to an arranged marriage. It never occurred to him that a snowstorm would strand him there. Or that he’d give in to years of longing and beg for the monster’s forbidden touch. But it happened. All of it…

Corin wasn’t trying to be a hero—especially not Aster’s hero. He couldn’t very well let him die, though. So he protected him. Which might have been considered noble…if he hadn’t also fallen into bed with him. Over and over again. But the cost of keeping Aster is far more than Corin’s willing to pay. Corin will eventually be forced to let him go—even if it destroys him.

When Aster’s problems follow him up the mountain—literally—he realizes running is no longer an option. The only question now is whether Corin will fight for him, or burn their potential happily ever after to the ground…

This spicy, steamy, M/M paranormal fantasy romance features a pair of star-crossed opposites, a little forced proximity (with only one bed), some silliness involving a lack of pants at unexpected moments, and plenty of dirty talk.

This series does not contain mpreg. There’s a brief occurrence of self-destructive ideation in this book, but no action is taken. HEA guaranteed!

REVIEW: ⟫ This was a fun introduction to a new series. Corin has sent himself into exile and is, quite frankly, bored. His boredom is alleviated by the last person he should be pleased to see – the twin brother of his ex-fiancee. Somehow, Asher works his way beneath Corin’s cold exterior until the two of them are discovering they have much in common, including a predilection for a little dirty talk and destroying clothing. But when the very thing Asher is running away from catches up with him, do the two of them have what it takes to grab the happiness that is right in front of them?

This was full of witty banter, fun situations and a new look at the old trope of only one bed. I loved learning so much about the dragons and judging by the cover photo, it’s completely understandable why Asher has such a crush on Corin. At turns touching, annoying, exasperating but always entertaining, I really loved this introduction to a new series – and I can barely wait to see how a certain troubadour copes in the future.

I received an ARC from GRR.

Right Place, Right Time by H. L. Day

Title: ⟫ Right Time, Right Place

Author: ⟫ H.L. Day

Rating: ⟫ 4/5

Blurb: ⟫ Sometimes the path to true love twists so much that you end up right back where you started.

Ben Sutcliffe’s teenage crush on his best friend’s dad burned hotter than a forest fire. Jasper Bennet was sexy, kind, and caring—the perfect man. He was also straight and off-limits. The wrong man at the wrong time. So when tragedy sent Ben running for the hills, he never looked back… until now.

The sleepy village of Pilsdale is exactly how Ben remembers it, and so is Jasper. Only this time, there’s a glint in Jasper’s eye that says Ben might not have known everything about him.

The key to overcoming Ben’s past can be found in Jasper’s arms. But he can’t stay. He has a whole life waiting for him outside Pilsdale. But the longer he stays, the more he thinks it’s finally the right time to be with the right man.

Right Place, Right Time is a low angst contemporary, small town, best friend’s dad, age gap, M/M romance. It features a main character who had good taste even as a teenager, a main character who always puts others first to his own detriment, an animal sanctuary, not-so-secret admirers, meddling villagers, a massage or three, and a sprinkling of humor.

Review: ⟫ Right Place, Right Time is exactly as described – it’s a sweet, low-angst romance with an age gap, complete with the best friend’s dad twist just for a little more spice. Ben and Jasper were sweet, kind and both deserving of a HEA but Ben is wary especially as he doesn’t want to read into things too much. There were a few mishaps and misunderstandings, but one of the best things about the story is the fact that both Ben and Jasper made an effort to talk to each other – communication wasn’t just a buzz-word, they did make an effort to let the other person know what they were feeling.

I liked the way that they addressed the age-gap thing face-on – in fact, they went through ALL of the possible reasons why a relationship between the two of them wouldn’t work – it was lovely that the author didn’t hide behind any of that to make an artificial complication. Especially when they had a naturally occurring one!

I felt that the ending was perhaps a little rushed and a couple of the characters felt like a little too much, but that feeling will probably depend on the mood you’re in/life experiences. I didn’t grow up in a place where everyone knew who you were, so the village occupants’ actions felt a little over the top for me, but what do I know?

A nice, generally uncomplicated romance, with a smidgeon of humour and a good set of characters, this was a lovely read. I received an ARC from GRR.

Consumed by Bailey Nicole (Black Diamond Unlucky 13 #7)

Title: ⟫ Consumed (Black Diamond Unlucky 13 #7)

Author: ⟫ Bailey Nicole

Rating: ⟫ 4/5

Blurb: ⟫ Welcome to Black Diamond Resort and Spa…

Growing up in a small town in Georgia, I never dreamed of starting a band that would blow up from a viral video or that I’d live in a mansion on the beach in Miami, Florida.

Since we were seven years old, my best friend Percy had dreamed big enough for both of us. He’d always known this would be our future.

But he’s been slowly killing me for years, and yet he’s the only reason I’m still alive. He needs me. He needs me for comfort. He needs me to hold him and love him. Percy wants to live in my skin, and even that wouldn’t be close enough.

But he doesn’t want me the way I want him.

Money. Fame. Medications. Therapy.

None of that could’ve prevented what transpired that night, and even though it put me in a mental health facility, I don’t regret it. Not one bit.

Because without him, there is no me.

Consumed is an M/M romance between two highly codependent childhood best friends. Please read the content warning at the beginning of the book as there are themes that might be triggering for some readers.

Review: ⟫ This is actually a really difficult book to review for several reasons. The main reason is that the depiction of the mental struggles of the main character felt so personal that commenting on them feels wrong.

The relationship between Percy and Junesy is so incredibly co-dependent that I kinda wondered how they managed to breathe when other person wasn’t in the room. Their relationship was – well, strange – and part of my difficulty in reviewing is that I struggled to understand the miscommuncation. I fully understood Winston’s feelings – he didn’t feel good enough for Percy, and that along with the issues with his mother and father meant that he tried to pull away. But I didn’t get why Percy didn’t tell Winston how he felt – like, outright just say it. Mind you, it wasn’t like he wasn’t giving HUGE clues with the physical aspect of things that were happening.

I feel that this has quite a different vibe to the other books in the series and therefore it’s difficult to review it on the same level. Who am I to say whether or not this is an accurate depiction of the mental disorders that Winston was struggling with? The ‘romance’ was intense, troubling, complicated but also heart-warming and rewarding, with both men well aware of who/what they are to each other.

Winston’s method of handling the management issue was brilliant and I admit, I welled up a little reading the letter.

I would say take any author warnings seriously, consider whether this is a good book for you to read, but if you are not triggered, I think a lot of people will find this book enjoyable.

I received an ARC from Indie Author Creative.

Stepbrother Dearest by Willow Dixon (Crimson Club #1)

Title: ⟫ Stepbrother Dearest (Crimson Club #1)

Author: ⟫ Willow Dixon

Rating: ⟫ 4/5

Blurb: ⟫ Of all the people who could have seen me when I was at my most vulnerable, it had to be him.

Caleb. My stepbrother and the golden child of our messed up blended family. We barely know each other, but for some reason he takes care of me when an incident at the club leaves me helpless and alone.

He hates me as much as I hate him, but something about his bossy attitude and unflappable calm soothes me. I don’t want to want him, but no one has ever made me feel the way he does.

Hooking up with my enemy is stupid as f*ck. So is breaking my rules for him. I know this, but whatever is between us will eventually burn out and I can go back to my solitary life and forget all about how amazing it feels to let someone else take control.

* * * * *

Gray and Caleb’s story is an enemies-with-benefits-to-lovers romance between stepbrothers who discover that sometimes the person you hate is the only one who can give you what you need. Expect lots of steamy encounters, tons of dirty talk, and reluctant feels as these two enemies learn the truth about themselves, and each other. It is the first book in the exciting new Crimson Club series but can be read as a stand-alone.

Review: ⟫ I’m always fascinated by the stepbrother trope – I have seen it written so many different ways but I enjoyed reading this one. Gray and Caleb are stepbrothers in name more than anything else – there was very little interaction between them when they were growing up and they didn’t have a sibling relationship. I know that can be something that puts people off reading this trope (although others prefer it if the couple DID grow up together – YMMV).

Gray was very close to rock bottom and feels like a failure when he meets up with Caleb again and lingering resentment from the past taints their interactions. I thought Caleb sounded dreamy and could well understand Gray’s feelings of insecurity and resentment – it seemed like everything had gone Caleb’s way whilst Gray was left to struggle. Add that to his brother’s relationship with Gray’s rival from his past, potentially losing his job and being forced to live in his car again and Gray was not in a good place.

What I loved about Gray was his ability to be honest with himself – to see his brother’s relationship as something to be happy about; his ability to make the most of what he had, especially with his relationships with the other dancers and how that grew stronger throughout the story; his feelings for Caleb and how he slowly began to relax and see that he could have this, that his life could take a new, unexpected turn that gave him a chance for happiness.

Caleb was brilliant – I loved his character, his caring nature, his ability to see past Gray’s prickliness to what was underneath, and ultimately how well he fits with Gray. This was a sexy, involving read, with a host of entertaining characters and a satisfying ending. Definitely a good read and I would recommend it.

I received an ARC from GRR.

Dead Serious: Case #3 Mr Bruce Reyes by Vawn Cassidy

Title: ⟫ Dead Serious: Case #3 Mr Bruce Reyes

Author: ⟫ Vawn Cassidy

Rating: ⟫ 4/5

Blurb: ⟫ Tristan Everett was finally getting used to the strangeness that was his life. Being able to see the dead and helping them solve their unfinished business and cross into the light wasn’t so bad after all, especially when he was accompanied by his best friend, dead drag queen Dusty Le Frey. His boyfriend, sexy Scotland Yard detective Danny Hayes, now knew the truth about Tristan’s “gift,” and they were about to move in together officially.

Life was good.

That is until Death—honest to god, Death (aka The Grim Reaper)—pitches up in Tristan’s kitchen with an unusual stop Dusty’s ghostly hookup Bruce from crossing into the light, which may result in dire consequences.

Determined to do the exact opposite, Tristan and Danny assemble their own ragtag gang of one prickly witch, one snarky psychic private investigator, one living drag queen with an affinity for feathers, and one dead one with an affinity for a deceased rugby player in tiny shorts. Together they must solve a forty-year old cold case, while juggling a dose of the flu, a broken leg, a supernatural storm, and an immortal death deity with the looks and temperament of a sexy but grouchy CEO.

Seriously… what could possibly go wrong?

Review: ⟫ Tristan is back along with Danny, Dusty, Chan and the beginnings of quite the Scooby Gang. The third instalment deals with our very own Bruce, the rugby player in the skimpy shorts who has Dusty in a tizzy.

The relationship between Danny and Tristan seems to be the only solid thing in Tristan’s life as everything else goes haywire – including visits from Death, a supernatural storm, Bruce’s body being found and all of the potential mess that can incur along with Death’s slightly deranged ‘twin’ in the form of chaos trying to escape the book store. So, business as usual.

As is usual with Vawn Cassidy, all of the characters get their chance to shine and watching as the gang get closer together and Danny and Tristan realise how loved they truly are, we learn about Bruce’s life (and death) and get more insight into the strangeness that surrounds Tristan like a fog.

I enjoyed reading this one – as I may have mentioned before, these books feel like reading/watching Murder She Wrote but with more sexy times and a little bit of supernatural thrown in for good measure. I enjoyed seeing Chan being pursued, can definitely sense some tension between other members of the gang, and I was so pleased with how Danny handled Viv – who knew we needed the miserable, cantankerous drunk and could grow to like her?

Despite being a murder case, that took the backseat to revelations from the past, people admitting their feelings and Danny and Tristan finally finding somewhere to live without a leaking roof. A very good instalment in the series and I look forward to seeing just what Tristan, Danny and the gang have to deal with in the next book.

I received an ARC from GRR.

Volatile by J.R. Gray (A Black Diamond Novel - Unlucky 13 Book #6)

Title: ⟫ Volatile (Black Diamond – Unlucky 13 Novel #6)

Author: ⟫ JR Gray

Rating: ⟫ 4/5

Blurb: ⟫ Welcome to Black Diamond Resort and Spa… and my exile…

A guy in a skirt wouldn’t turn a straight guy on, right?

I spent the last decade performing next to him. I’ve never looked at him as more—until I walked in on him in a skirt.

He’s as broken as I am.

We survived our childhood together. And when he’s finally trying to embrace the parts his father tried to beat out of him, I can’t handle it. He’s taunting me with smeared eye-liner and a filthy smile, singing to a sold-out crowd, and it’s getting too hot under these stage lights.

I can’t look him in the eyes. I can’t be with him—not like that—but I can’t stop thinking about him.

He's pushing me over the edge.

Now we’re banished to this forsaken celebrity timeout—to play emotional chicken—and he’s determined to make sure I lose.

He’ll push every button I possess until I give in.

Review: ⟫ I still haven’t figured out if I think Royal and Aspen are actually good for each other – Aspen seemed to be such a mess in terms of how he dealt with things, and I struggled with his attitude. He might have been defending Royal to his brother, but at the same time he was constantly pushing him in a way that I wasn’t always comfortable with.

Apart from that, the relationship between the two of them was hot af, full of steamy scenes whether they were on stage or not. I appreciated how, when Royal decided he was all-in, he really was all-in. He turned away from his father’s teachings, was honest with his mother and made sure that Aspen knew that their relationship was his number one focus and I truly thought that was wonderful.

There were links to other works by JR Gray (the Pretty Broken series) and I did enjoy catching those. I have also read most of the book in the Black Diamond series and this is the first one (for me) where the outside world was featured more and I enjoyed that too.

Messy rock stars falling in love and getting steamy on stage – can’t really ask for more than that. I enjoyed reading this and look forward to more in the Black Diamond series.

I received an ARC from GRR.

Mr Nice Guy by Isla Olsen (Suits & Sevens Book #3)

Title: ⟫ Mr Nice Guy (Suits & Sevens Book #3)

Author: ⟫ Isla Olsen

Rating: ⟫ 4/5

Blurb: ⟫ Tanner When you’re staring down the barrel of half a century’s existence on this planet, you tend to think about things… Like…maybe I should think about retiring? And I guess I could start crossing things off my bucket list? And should I get my colon checked? Something I wasn’t intending to start assessing too closely at this stage of my life—or ever, really—is my sporadic, complicated, and rather inconvenient attraction to men. Some people do yoga. Others bake. For me, the only sure-fire way to release all that tension and anxiety that’s always building up inside me is…well, I’m sure you can figure it out… But that’s all it is. Stress relief. Or, at least, that’s all it was. Until I met Deacon Stapleton. Gorgeous, funny, and great in bed—it only takes one night for me to decide I want him to be my permanent stress ball. But there are some problems…he’s too young; he’s too nice; and he doesn’t do casual flings. Oh, and did I mention he’s my daughter’s kindergarten teacher? Mr Nice Guy is book three in the Suits & Sevens series and features a billionaire silver fox and a rugby-playing kindergarten teacher. It can be read as a stand-alone. billionaire, single dad, age gap, bi-awakening.

Review: ⟫ A sweet, heart-felt and caring love story between a billionaire who uses men for stress relief and a kindergarten teacher that surprised me. I found Tanner a little confusing initially – the mental gymnastics he seemed to go through to explain what he does would far better have been spent on better therapy and fighting his ex-wife. But the more I read, I could actually see why he didn’t look into it too closely – he’s been through so much but has to remain strong for his kids and his employees – he doesn’t have the mental bandwidth to actually consider his sexuality.

Deacon was really sweet and what I really loved about him was how, despite how frustrating he sometimes found things, he didn’t rush Tanner. He listened, tried to understand but also laid down his own boundaries and I respected that. The rugby players made me laugh and I definitely remember at least one of them which makes me think I’ve read more in this series without realising it.

The sex was hot, the relationship was interesting and loving, and can I just say how very much I love Tanner’s son, Jazz.

A solid read and I am going to see if I can find the other books and catch up with the others.

I received an ARC from GRR.

Reluctant Renegade by Garrett Leigh (Rebel Kings MC)

Title: ⟫ Reluctant Renegade

Author: ⟫ Garrett Leigh

Rating: ⟫ 4/5

Blurb: ⟫ “I was never scared of dying until I loved you.”

The shy single dad and the gentle assassin. Domestic bliss and a bloodthirsty revenge mission battle it out in the emotional fifth instalment of the bestselling Rebel Kings MC series.

Decoy

I met a dude in a bar once. Tall and strong, he had moon-blue eyes and tawny hair, and he moved with the grace of a lion.

It didn’t pan out, but that’s a theme in my life, and I’ve spent the last five years knowing that kind stranger dodged a bullet.

Divorced and miserable, I’m not exactly a catch.

But the thing is, that man...he’s not a stranger anymore.

And he’s as beautiful as I remember.

Everything you want in a fake boyfriend, right?

Don’t ask me to explain that one. But let me tell you I thought my biggest fear was losing my daughter. Then Folk came home, and I realised you can give your heart to more than one person.

We have a second chance. Goddamn, we deserve it.

But this life, man. It’s a journey.

And there’s no guarantees we’ll both make it to the end.

Reluctant Renegade is an MM/gay biker/MC romance. Content warnings for everything you’d expect in a sizzling biker romance, in addition to divorce/custody stress, addiction, and mental health rep.

Review: ⟫ We finally get to the brother with a kid, the one who remains on the outskirts because getting too embroiled in club business could cost him everything in his divorce/custody battle and it was yet another intriguing look into things.

Decoy is a puzzle – an integral part of the club, he nevertheless seems to remain on the outskirts. It’s been a tough time for the Rebel MC and everyone is more than a little punch-drunk as yet more threats head their way, and in the meantime, Decoy is fighting with his ex for access to his daughter. It was immediately evident that Decoy was kinda drowning – not through lack of support but due to the precarious situation he was in with his daughter, Ivy. Add to that, his hidden past with Folk has come back to bite him in the form of an idea that should keep him and Ivy safe and help with the custody issues.

Folk has his own reasons for being with the Rebel Kings and his history with Decoy is an issue. Add to that being tapped by Alexei for his special skills, and his commitment to looking after his old friend’s children, and Folk has a lot on his plate.

I loved the way they carved out time for each other; how they acknowledged that that night in the past had meant a lot to both of them, and worked honestly to find a way forward. It was also brilliant to catch up with the others and see how they’re doing – Embry is still suffering ill-effects, and the Rebel family is growing so quickly.

I didn’t feel that the romance was as much at the forefront this time and I found it a little difficult to understand why they both held onto the memory so strongly, but Garrett Leigh continues to weave the Rebel MC throughout readers’ hearts and this is an excellent continuation to the series.

I received an ARC from GRR.

Anonymous Alpha by MM Farmer (Bangers & Mash #7)

Title: ⟫ Anonymous Alpha (Bangers & Mash #7)

Author: ⟫ MM Farmer

Rating: ⟫ 4/5

Blurb: ⟫ When everything goes wrong and the world is set against him, who can a desperate omega in trouble turn to for help?

Evan

I should have been careful what I wished for, because after the most amazing and torrid heat I’ve ever experienced, I certainly got it! The glittery, bubblegum pop image that the record label created for me, the one I was so ready to move away from, has been blown out of the water, because someone leaked a tape of me and the ESA I’d hired to take me through heat.

And on top of that, despite precautions, I might have an even bigger “little” problem after that heat. I have no one to turn to but Sable, who the media is calling the “anonymous alpha”. I barely know him, but I haven’t been able to stop thinking about him.

Will he help me, or will he think I’ve ruined his life?

Sable

I’m used to helping high-profile omega clients, but nothing could have prepared me for the media firestorm when a tape of me and Evan Mercer hit the internet. Everyone is saying Evan leaked the tape on purpose to get out of his recording contract, but when I get a tearful, panicked call from Evan, an entirely different story comes out.

I will do whatever it takes to protect my omega, because Evan is mine now, even if it was just an ESA call that brought us together. I’m ready to stand by my man, and once we figure out who blasted his career and his life to bits, the gloves will come off and I’ll show the world just what it means to defend the man I love.

Anonymous Alpha is a stand-alone, an omega in distress, alpha to the rescue story in the Bangers & Mash series. It contains a very good boy doing very, very bad things, the worst day ever, hidden cameras (not the good kind), an escape from the media, friends coming to the rescue, and Evan Mercer’s BIGGEST FAN EVER!!!

PLEASE This is not a shifter series. But you know how the other books have had a warning that no omegas are impregnated during the course of the book? *whistles innocently*

Review: ⟫ I haven’t read any of the previous books in this series so went into it completely blind. I found it fascinating the whole idea of having a service where alphas would help omegas through their heats and enjoyed the way that this was handled in the book – the sex work aspect of this was handled very professionally which was nice to see.

Evan is ready to move on from his teeny-bopper image – and his awful manager. Once he’s through this heat, his contract will be up with the record company and he can outwardly become the grown-up they refuse to allow him to be. His manager is a complete sleaze who sees Evan as a cash-cow and is not happy at the changes ahead.

Into this mix comes Sable, an Emergency Support Alpha, who feels a pull towards Evan that he’s never experienced before in all of his time helping omegas through their heats. He certainly isn’t expecting a sex tape to be released, labelling him as Evan’s anonymous alpha and splashing the time they spent together all over the press.

The 180 turn of the media and some of the fans towards Evan at this negative happening felt a little too realistic – we all know that the press loves nothing more than a scandal and this is a huge scandal. How Evan and Sable find their way through the terrible situation that they’re placed in whilst adjusting to their new bond and a surprise pregnancy makes for an interesting story.

It is light and doesn’t dwell too much on the negative side of fame and the role that social media plays in that, but the subject is touched on and I appreciated that. Otherwise, this is a fated-mates/insta-love story with some hot, very kinky sex and a fight for justice that was entertaining.

I received an ARC from GRR.

Atlas by Eden Finley (Mike Bravo Ops #3)

Title: ⟫ Mike Bravo Ops: Atlas

Author: ⟫ Eden Finley

Rating: ⟫ 4/5

Blurb: ⟫ ATLAS

Working undercover at a strip club is not my usual kind of job. If it weren’t a great opportunity to show the Mike Bravo team I can run my own op, I wouldn’t have agreed to it.

When my boss asks me to befriend the biggest gossip in the establishment, the person who knows everything, I’m even more reluctant. Because that happens to be one of the dancers. The only dancer to catch my attention in all the wrong ways.

I need to be professional or I will never prove I’m leadership material.

Only problem is, the guy with the stage name Lemon makes me want to be anything but professional.

LEMON

I’m sick of the new bartender throwing dirty looks my way. He’s as judgmental as he is hot, and let’s just say he’s really judgmental.

I don’t know why he’s working here if he looks down on us dancers so much. He could bartend at a regular club.

But when he saves me from a drunken customer getting too handsy, his attitude suddenly flips, and we find ourselves becoming … friends?

Underneath the judgment, it turns out Atlas is a total sweetheart.

Maybe more caring than anyone I’ve ever met.

I’ve never had a relationship before, but something tells me it could be way too easy to fall for the gentle giant.

Review: ⟫ I have to be honest and admit that I didn’t remember much about Atlas – which is a shocker because he sounds absolutely divine! This was Lemon’s story all the way: from the descriptions of his dancing to his sassy attitude and his ‘Mom’ demeanour, Lemon owned this whole book.

I liked how Atlas faced up to his subconscious prejudices and addressed them, and even when he wasn’t perfect about it, he was willing to listen and to learn. I loved Lemon’s audacity in how he chose to take care of his boys, and my heart broke for him when the betrayal was revealed.

This was a really lovely addition to the Mike Bravo series, giving us glimpses of the other guys (especially Iris but everyone has a soft place in their heart for Iris) and I was pleased with the instalment.

Tink by Emmy Sanders (Elite 8 Studios Book #3)

Title: ⟫ Tink (Elite 8 Studios Book #3)

Author: ⟫ Emmy Sanders

Rating: ⟫ 4/5

Blurb: ⟫ Have you heard the tale of Goldie and the Two Bears?

Alex

Working in the adult entertainment industry has its challenges. Mainly, scoring a date that lasts longer than a night. I’d started to wonder if my own happily-ever-after wasn’t in the cards.

But then a hookup turned meet-cute lands me right on top of Rowan, the shy, submissive bear of my dreams with a serious weak spot for sweetly spoken words. He doesn’t see Tink, the performer. He sees me.

Yet before I can lick my territory, Rowan’s neighbor Finn walks in. Quite literally. And the tatted, pierced, ginger-haired papa bear has his sights set on my new crush. Even worse, Rowan returns his interest. I assume that’s game over, so imagine my shock when Finn suggests a less-than-traditional arrangement in which we all win.

They say you should never run from bears. So really, what’s a boy to do when faced with his ultimate fantasy?

After all, maybe happily-ever-after is meant for more than two.

Tink is a poly MMM romance between one golden-haired troublemaker and two very delicious bears of the human variety. There’s praise, furry chests and unexpected piercings, an extensive collection of orchids, tight white pants, coworkers who are like family, and one very HEA. It’s book 3 in the Elite 8 Studios series but can be read as a standalone.

Review: ⟫ I haven’t read any of the previous Elite 8 Studios novels but that didn’t affect my enjoyment of the story. This was a sweet, easy read that covered some pretty big topics but not in a preachy way.

Rowan is looking to dip his toe back into the dating scene after an absolutely awful breakup, just in time for Alex to take him up on the offer of a night of passion. Both men feel the pull of something more and it would have been quite a simple story if it had remained on that level.

However, Alex is a porn-star and has had previous lovers who didn’t like his choice of profession, so is understandably guarded. Especially when Rowan’s neighbour, Finn, throws his hat into the ring and what began as a hook up begins to turn into a hot relationship between the three of them.

The way in which this trio communicated with each other was gold – there were no misunderstandings about where they all were and how they felt; the support for each other was beautiful and the relationship as it grew was beautiful to witness. They each have their vulnerabilities but they were all ready to throw everything at this chance at a once in a lifetime love and that was amazing.

There were plenty of sex scenes, including a very intense scene later in the book and they were well written. Perhaps a few too many for my taste but they didn’t detract from the main story. I liked how everything wove together – from handling Manuel, building Rowan up so that he got a handle on his self-esteem issues; seeing the people who worked for Elite 8 as people rather than just performers, with outside lives and interests that further fleshed them out.

I did enjoy reading this and based on some of the character descriptions, I think I might have a look for the other Elite 8 studio books. The puns about Goldilocks and the Bears came thick and fast, and I loved the way it was incorporated into what Alex was working on. The reality of polyamory and how people might view it was shown gently, and the outing of Alex’s profession and how various family members felt kept this from being too fairy-tale-esque. If you’re looking for something low-angst, sexy and with some interesting themes underlying the story, this might just hit the spot.

I received an ARC from GRR.