I have never smiled as much as I did while reading Alicia Hunter Pace’s, Face Off: Emile. This is the perfect feel good book with a perfect hero.
Amy hI have never smiled as much as I did while reading Alicia Hunter Pace’s, Face Off: Emile. This is the perfect feel good book with a perfect hero.
Amy has been abandoned with nothing but the clothes on her back, a phone that won’t work, credit and debit cards that are worthless, and $84.38. She’s worried, alone and confused. Emile is just the kind of guy to stop and help a distressed female, especially since the parking space in front of her is available. He’s a rescuer and he sets out to right the wrongs that have been dealt to her.
Amy is definitely broken and struggling to find her way as well as building up resistance against anything that might take away her independence again. Emile knew that he had been searching for his happy ever after but despite a few good women in his life he had yet to find it. He begins to see that in Amy.
I absolutely loved Emile! So many heroes are described as being charming and sweet but Emile is the pure definition of the words. He is French Canadian and speaks with a stilted formal accent that just about pushed me over the edge of never coming out of this book again. He often confused his idioms which just endeared him to me more. However, despite being all of that, at the heart of him is his desire not only for Amy, but to protect her and bring her away from the hurt and mistrust she experienced from her ex.
I was already deeply in love with this hero but when I reached the end and he presented his “grand gesture” I wanted to laugh and cry and throw my arms around him. I’ve never read such an incredibly heart felt declaration.
Ladies, do not dally. Get to one clicking.
ARC provided through NetGalley and gosh dang it I’m so glad I got one!
Dual POV Safe Possible Triggers – some abuse off page that is mentioned Push and pull - some but completely understandable considering what she has gone through
Merged review:
I have never smiled as much as I did while reading Alicia Hunter Pace’s, Face Off: Emile. This is the perfect feel good book with a perfect hero.
Amy has been abandoned with nothing but the clothes on her back, a phone that won’t work, credit and debit cards that are worthless, and $84.38. She’s worried, alone and confused. Emile is just the kind of guy to stop and help a distressed female, especially since the parking space in front of her is available. He’s a rescuer and he sets out to right the wrongs that have been dealt to her.
Amy is definitely broken and struggling to find her way as well as building up resistance against anything that might take away her independence again. Emile knew that he had been searching for his happy ever after but despite a few good women in his life he had yet to find it. He begins to see that in Amy.
I absolutely loved Emile! So many heroes are described as being charming and sweet but Emile is the pure definition of the words. He is French Canadian and speaks with a stilted formal accent that just about pushed me over the edge of never coming out of this book again. He often confused his idioms which just endeared him to me more. However, despite being all of that, at the heart of him is his desire not only for Amy, but to protect her and bring her away from the hurt and mistrust she experienced from her ex.
I was already deeply in love with this hero but when I reached the end and he presented his “grand gesture” I wanted to laugh and cry and throw my arms around him. I’ve never read such an incredibly heart felt declaration.
Ladies, do not dally. Get to one clicking.
ARC provided through NetGalley and gosh dang it I’m so glad I got one!
Dual POV Safe Possible Triggers – some abuse off page that is mentioned Push and pull - some but completely understandable considering what she has gone through...more
Newt moves his daughter, Millie, to a small town hoping to put the past and all its pain behind them. It is his hope that the move will bring his daugNewt moves his daughter, Millie, to a small town hoping to put the past and all its pain behind them. It is his hope that the move will bring his daughter emotional healing. Unfortunately, there are still issues she must deal with and Newt is lost as to how to help her.
Freddy is a teen counselor that uses her dog as an instrument to reach her patients. She first meets Millie at the high school and recognizes that the girl is hurting but that she has an instant affinity for Freddy’s service dog. When she takes on a new patient at her clinic, she is shocked to learn it is Millie and that she is the daughter of the man she has had a few run in’s with lately. None of them pleasant expect for the piercing eyes that seem to see through her.
I enjoyed all of these characters as this story is not just about the hero and heroine but includes Millie to the hundredth degree. Newt was such an amazing dad. He was strong and protective and yet knew when to draw the line even as he was able to share his soft side with both Millie and Freddy.
Freddy was an incredible heroine. Her past included so much loss over a short amount of time that it was a miracle she was still standing. The love she shared with those around her made her shine as did the care and attention she gave to her menagerie of animals. Freddy was the type of character you wish you had for a friend.
Millie was portrayed in the perfect teenage angsty light. Even as she begins to grow from her wounded soul, she never completely loses the fact that she’s fifteen and all teenager. I loved the strength she slowly gained and then eventually latched hold of and used to form her into the woman she would one day become.
This was a slow burn romance that covered the pain of loss and the methods that some teens deal with their loss of control and how the adults around them handle those issues. The first portion of the book was very slow but definitely lays the groundwork for character development. However, there was plenty of drama toward the last 25% and the epilogue was enough to bring tears to my eyes.
Overall, this was a heartwarming read that left me feeling satisfied at its conclusion.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book provided by NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Dual POV Safe (view spoiler)[although there is a woman that wants to land the H, it is just a few scenes and it does not cause drama – she is actually a friend of the h and once she learns they are together she steps away; om from h’s past plays a large role in the story but not as a love interest although they both have a conversation about what happened between them years ago – H is aware of their past and actually becomes friends with the om (hide spoiler)] Triggers (view spoiler)[attempted rape; kidnapping; cancer; child neglect/abuse (hide spoiler)]
Merged review:
Newt moves his daughter, Millie, to a small town hoping to put the past and all its pain behind them. It is his hope that the move will bring his daughter emotional healing. Unfortunately, there are still issues she must deal with and Newt is lost as to how to help her.
Freddy is a teen counselor that uses her dog as an instrument to reach her patients. She first meets Millie at the high school and recognizes that the girl is hurting but that she has an instant affinity for Freddy’s service dog. When she takes on a new patient at her clinic, she is shocked to learn it is Millie and that she is the daughter of the man she has had a few run in’s with lately. None of them pleasant expect for the piercing eyes that seem to see through her.
I enjoyed all of these characters as this story is not just about the hero and heroine but includes Millie to the hundredth degree. Newt was such an amazing dad. He was strong and protective and yet knew when to draw the line even as he was able to share his soft side with both Millie and Freddy.
Freddy was an incredible heroine. Her past included so much loss over a short amount of time that it was a miracle she was still standing. The love she shared with those around her made her shine as did the care and attention she gave to her menagerie of animals. Freddy was the type of character you wish you had for a friend.
Millie was portrayed in the perfect teenage angsty light. Even as she begins to grow from her wounded soul, she never completely loses the fact that she’s fifteen and all teenager. I loved the strength she slowly gained and then eventually latched hold of and used to form her into the woman she would one day become.
This was a slow burn romance that covered the pain of loss and the methods that some teens deal with their loss of control and how the adults around them handle those issues. The first portion of the book was very slow but definitely lays the groundwork for character development. However, there was plenty of drama toward the last 25% and the epilogue was enough to bring tears to my eyes.
Overall, this was a heartwarming read that left me feeling satisfied at its conclusion.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book provided by NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Dual POV Safe (view spoiler)[although there is a woman that wants to land the H, it is just a few scenes and it does not cause drama – she is actually a friend of the h and once she learns they are together she steps away; om from h’s past plays a large role in the story but not as a love interest although they both have a conversation about what happened between them years ago – H is aware of their past and actually becomes friends with the om (hide spoiler)] Triggers (view spoiler)[attempted rape; kidnapping; cancer; child neglect/abuse (hide spoiler)]...more
After a divorce from her cheating ex-husband, Callie is trying to figure out what to do with her life. Having always done what her family wanted, she After a divorce from her cheating ex-husband, Callie is trying to figure out what to do with her life. Having always done what her family wanted, she is now breaking away, but the answers to her dilemma aren’t so easy to find. Cash, her friend and yet her ex’s best friend as well, has been there to help her with small problems along the way. After a drunken night, a discussion of tattoos and some cookies, Callie is suddenly seeing something in Cash she was never expecting.
I enjoyed this “ex’s best friend” story. Cash has been in love with Callie for years and yet his loyalty to his friend has kept him at a distance. Now he can’t seem to stay away, but what will happen to his friendship and most importantly, the business they share together, if news of their relationship gets out?
Callie had a real struggle on her hands but she was strong and determined despite the emotional obstacles that stood in her way. Cash was wonderful! He was so caring and supportive of her every step of the way. I loved when his alpha tendencies arose! I was so curious how this whole situation was going to sort itself out because it felt like someone was going to lose along the way. The ending was maybe a tad bit tidy and smooth for the circumstances, but I enjoyed it nonetheless.
This was a well-paced read that had some great secondary characters, some of which I wanted to push out of a fast running car. The heat level was steamy and oh so good with some dirty talk, which I LOVE, thrown in and the chemistry between Callie and Cash was at overload. There’s an epilogue that only covers a few weeks, so I would’ve liked a further look into their future, but I closed this book feeling happy and sated and again, so pleased with this author’s work.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book provided by NetGalley and Entangled. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Dual POV Safe (view spoiler)[no ow drama although the h’s ex is in the picture as he does stir up some issues between the MCs; both H/h have been with others throughout the years but H is not known as a manwh*re; he does admit to having tried to forget her through ow (hide spoiler)] Triggers (view spoiler)[cheating but not between H/h; parental indifference (hide spoiler)]
Merged review:
After a divorce from her cheating ex-husband, Callie is trying to figure out what to do with her life. Having always done what her family wanted, she is now breaking away, but the answers to her dilemma aren’t so easy to find. Cash, her friend and yet her ex’s best friend as well, has been there to help her with small problems along the way. After a drunken night, a discussion of tattoos and some cookies, Callie is suddenly seeing something in Cash she was never expecting.
I enjoyed this “ex’s best friend” story. Cash has been in love with Callie for years and yet his loyalty to his friend has kept him at a distance. Now he can’t seem to stay away, but what will happen to his friendship and most importantly, the business they share together, if news of their relationship gets out?
Callie had a real struggle on her hands but she was strong and determined despite the emotional obstacles that stood in her way. Cash was wonderful! He was so caring and supportive of her every step of the way. I loved when his alpha tendencies arose! I was so curious how this whole situation was going to sort itself out because it felt like someone was going to lose along the way. The ending was maybe a tad bit tidy and smooth for the circumstances, but I enjoyed it nonetheless.
This was a well-paced read that had some great secondary characters, some of which I wanted to push out of a fast running car. The heat level was steamy and oh so good with some dirty talk, which I LOVE, thrown in and the chemistry between Callie and Cash was at overload. There’s an epilogue that only covers a few weeks, so I would’ve liked a further look into their future, but I closed this book feeling happy and sated and again, so pleased with this author’s work.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book provided by NetGalley and Entangled. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Dual POV Safe (view spoiler)[no ow drama although the h’s ex is in the picture as he does stir up some issues between the MCs; both H/h have been with others throughout the years but H is not known as a manwh*re; he does admit to having tried to forget her through ow (hide spoiler)] Triggers (view spoiler)[cheating but not between H/h; parental indifference (hide spoiler)]...more
Holy freakin’ Hades!!! This book! There are just no words! This book stirred up so many emotions then one by one plucked them from their hiding placesHoly freakin’ Hades!!! This book! There are just no words! This book stirred up so many emotions then one by one plucked them from their hiding places and flung them out in front of me to face them in all their messy glory. It was a painfully beautiful journey and I swear to any and all entities that I will never forget this amazing story!
My suggestion is to avoid reviews that give too much away. While it’s not a matter of constant twists and turns, the best part of this book is never knowing what’s going to happen next. Just settle back and let this author introduce you to her characters. They are incredible. Broken and imperfect but exactly what they needed to be to face their inner demons. Then be prepared to hold on emotionally as she takes you on a ride through a desperate and desolate plain where there is no hope to be found at its conclusion. Even the sparks of promise you glimpse along the way will always be overshadowed by the despair these characters live with.
This is a wonderfully written story full of depth. The angst is off the charts, the romance a welcome reprieve in the darkness and the secondary characters gaining a place in my heart without consuming the story. There are not enough stars for this book and I’m already feeling the mega book hangover Crazy Madly Deeply is going to leave me with.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Dual POV Safety (view spoiler)[Although this couple have known each other almost all their lives they never get together due to the social divider between them. Therefore, they are both involved with others. Once together they are solid. A bit of ow drama in that H is having a casual affair with a woman. He is not a man whore. He is respectful of women. Heroine’s boyfriend is a douche so there is a time or two where we see what he makes her do for him. OM drama is more about the two men being enemies than anything to do with the heroine. (hide spoiler)] Triggers (view spoiler)[drugs; date rape; date rape drugs; physical abuse; mental health issues (hide spoiler)]
Merged review:
Holy freakin’ Hades!!! This book! There are just no words! This book stirred up so many emotions then one by one plucked them from their hiding places and flung them out in front of me to face them in all their messy glory. It was a painfully beautiful journey and I swear to any and all entities that I will never forget this amazing story!
My suggestion is to avoid reviews that give too much away. While it’s not a matter of constant twists and turns, the best part of this book is never knowing what’s going to happen next. Just settle back and let this author introduce you to her characters. They are incredible. Broken and imperfect but exactly what they needed to be to face their inner demons. Then be prepared to hold on emotionally as she takes you on a ride through a desperate and desolate plain where there is no hope to be found at its conclusion. Even the sparks of promise you glimpse along the way will always be overshadowed by the despair these characters live with.
This is a wonderfully written story full of depth. The angst is off the charts, the romance a welcome reprieve in the darkness and the secondary characters gaining a place in my heart without consuming the story. There are not enough stars for this book and I’m already feeling the mega book hangover Crazy Madly Deeply is going to leave me with.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Dual POV Safety (view spoiler)[Although this couple have known each other almost all their lives they never get together due to the social divider between them. Therefore, they are both involved with others. Once together they are solid. A bit of ow drama in that H is having a casual affair with a woman. He is not a man whore. He is respectful of women. Heroine’s boyfriend is a douche so there is a time or two where we see what he makes her do for him. OM drama is more about the two men being enemies than anything to do with the heroine. (hide spoiler)] Triggers (view spoiler)[drugs; date rape; date rape drugs; physical abuse; mental health issues (hide spoiler)]...more
Oh my gawd!!! I am so in love with Asa and Keelie! Usually, it’s all about the hero, you know? But not this time. I absolutely fell in love with this Oh my gawd!!! I am so in love with Asa and Keelie! Usually, it’s all about the hero, you know? But not this time. I absolutely fell in love with this heroine. She’s had to put on a façade for so long. Struggled to find something normal that works for her and her children. Filled with so much anger and distrust, scared of what might happen in life, her character touched me in a way I’ve never been affected by a heroine before.
But don’t think for a second I didn’t tumble completely in love with Asa Hollingsworth as well. Oh dear lord! The man gives a whole new definition to dedication, protection and love. And then there’s the fact that I’m sure there wouldn’t be a woman around that doesn’t swoon should his attention shift to her. Or heck, to even be in the same room as him would cause swoonage in anyone that looked his way.
[image]
Together this couple took me to a wonderfully giddy, sometimes angsty, always wanting more, place. This is how romance is done!
Keelie meets Asa while ditched during a blind date. Literally, ditched. We quickly learn that the ability to change tires should be the main prerequisite when looking for a man. Asa fits the bill and despite Keelie’s decision to never date again, he pushes himself into her and her children’s lives all while gifting her with the things her life has been missing.
[image]
There is plenty of drama here with Asa’s daughter as well as Keelie’s emotional issues, but in true Brynne Asher fashion we ride the storm knowing that the end is going to leave us breathless, satiated, and happy. I loved the twist at the end, knowing it would be there but unsure where or how until it actually happened. The epilogue was spot on and so dang awesome I had to reread it immediately…just because I could.
[image]
If you haven’t read the previous books in this series, no worries. They each stand alone. However, I recommend you remedy that injustice immediately! After you read this one of course. No need to wait.
Okay, so I’m going to let you know that a friend of mine forced this author to let me have an advanced copy and Ms. Asher was too nice to say no. So yes, this is a review of an ARC but if you can’t tell it’s completely honest, all you have to do is check out the verified purchase on my Amazon review when this goes live.
And one last thing…If I had a pantry and an Asa, my farm would be a perfect kind of chaos as well.
Dual POV Safe, safe, safe! No ow/om…safe! Possible triggers – only if you are sensitive to drug usage (off page and not by any of the main or close secondary characters)
Merged review:
Oh my gawd!!! I am so in love with Asa and Keelie! Usually, it’s all about the hero, you know? But not this time. I absolutely fell in love with this heroine. She’s had to put on a façade for so long. Struggled to find something normal that works for her and her children. Filled with so much anger and distrust, scared of what might happen in life, her character touched me in a way I’ve never been affected by a heroine before.
But don’t think for a second I didn’t tumble completely in love with Asa Hollingsworth as well. Oh dear lord! The man gives a whole new definition to dedication, protection and love. And then there’s the fact that I’m sure there wouldn’t be a woman around that doesn’t swoon should his attention shift to her. Or heck, to even be in the same room as him would cause swoonage in anyone that looked his way.
[image]
Together this couple took me to a wonderfully giddy, sometimes angsty, always wanting more, place. This is how romance is done!
Keelie meets Asa while ditched during a blind date. Literally, ditched. We quickly learn that the ability to change tires should be the main prerequisite when looking for a man. Asa fits the bill and despite Keelie’s decision to never date again, he pushes himself into her and her children’s lives all while gifting her with the things her life has been missing.
[image]
There is plenty of drama here with Asa’s daughter as well as Keelie’s emotional issues, but in true Brynne Asher fashion we ride the storm knowing that the end is going to leave us breathless, satiated, and happy. I loved the twist at the end, knowing it would be there but unsure where or how until it actually happened. The epilogue was spot on and so dang awesome I had to reread it immediately…just because I could.
[image]
If you haven’t read the previous books in this series, no worries. They each stand alone. However, I recommend you remedy that injustice immediately! After you read this one of course. No need to wait.
Okay, so I’m going to let you know that a friend of mine forced this author to let me have an advanced copy and Ms. Asher was too nice to say no. So yes, this is a review of an ARC but if you can’t tell it’s completely honest, all you have to do is check out the verified purchase on my Amazon review when this goes live.
And one last thing…If I had a pantry and an Asa, my farm would be a perfect kind of chaos as well.
Dual POV Safe, safe, safe! No ow/om…safe! Possible triggers – only if you are sensitive to drug usage (off page and not by any of the main or close secondary characters)...more
Wow! I was not expecting to enjoy this book as much as I did. Recommended to me, I was excited until I realized it wasn’t a typical historical nor youWow! I was not expecting to enjoy this book as much as I did. Recommended to me, I was excited until I realized it wasn’t a typical historical nor your standard contemporary. I’ve never been a fan of anything set in the 1900’s. Until now.
Evony along with a group of other residents of East Berlin are thwarted when they try to escape. Expecting to be sent to a prison for traitors where she will be tortured and tormented, she is shaken, scared and unsure when her captor, Reinhardt Volker – the Midnight Hunter, takes her to his home instead. This man is not known for his kind ways. He has a reputation and the stony cold look upon his face doesn’t help her to think he has anything but evil in plan for her.
Reinhardt was a scary dude going into this story. His character is multi-faceted and we are gradually allowed to see who he really is as one layer at a time is revealed. I love when a hero will do absolutely anything for his woman and despite who he was, Reinhardt was prepared to do so for Evony.
Evony is a strong, smart heroine who is determined to gain her freedom. She never relented when it came to standing up to the hero if though she knew he could dispose of her in the blink of an eye. So many of their interactions left me breathless, afraid she might have pushed him too far this time.
From the beginning this author pulled me into the desperate darkness that living in the shadow of the wall in East Berlin was like. Living far from that shadow I recall cold war talk and never really understanding what that meant but this book shines a whole new light on it from the inside of characters who were living through it. The author’s acknowledgements at the end caused me to choke up because I remember watching the wall come down and while it didn’t affect me directly in my day to day life…it affected the world I live in.
This is my first book by this author and I will most definitely be checking out her backlist!
Dual POV – mostly heroine Safe – no ow/om drama No apparent triggers
Merged review:
Wow! I was not expecting to enjoy this book as much as I did. Recommended to me, I was excited until I realized it wasn’t a typical historical nor your standard contemporary. I’ve never been a fan of anything set in the 1900’s. Until now.
Evony along with a group of other residents of East Berlin are thwarted when they try to escape. Expecting to be sent to a prison for traitors where she will be tortured and tormented, she is shaken, scared and unsure when her captor, Reinhardt Volker – the Midnight Hunter, takes her to his home instead. This man is not known for his kind ways. He has a reputation and the stony cold look upon his face doesn’t help her to think he has anything but evil in plan for her.
Reinhardt was a scary dude going into this story. His character is multi-faceted and we are gradually allowed to see who he really is as one layer at a time is revealed. I love when a hero will do absolutely anything for his woman and despite who he was, Reinhardt was prepared to do so for Evony.
Evony is a strong, smart heroine who is determined to gain her freedom. She never relented when it came to standing up to the hero if though she knew he could dispose of her in the blink of an eye. So many of their interactions left me breathless, afraid she might have pushed him too far this time.
From the beginning this author pulled me into the desperate darkness that living in the shadow of the wall in East Berlin was like. Living far from that shadow I recall cold war talk and never really understanding what that meant but this book shines a whole new light on it from the inside of characters who were living through it. The author’s acknowledgements at the end caused me to choke up because I remember watching the wall come down and while it didn’t affect me directly in my day to day life…it affected the world I live in.
This is my first book by this author and I will most definitely be checking out her backlist!
Dual POV – mostly heroine Safe – no ow/om drama No apparent triggers...more
I absolutely LOVED this novella! Nerds, when done right are my JAM!!!
Theo was bullied throughout life due to his stutter. Students at school were crue
I absolutely LOVED this novella! Nerds, when done right are my JAM!!!
Theo was bullied throughout life due to his stutter. Students at school were cruel but he learned how to deal with his tormentors in his own way. My heart hurt so much for him! There is nothing worse than feeling isolated and singled out and children can sometimes be the cruelest.
[image]
As an adult he has gained a certain amount of confidence largely due to his ability to control a good portion of his stutter. But when he’s confronted with Addy he loses that control. She’s so beautiful and she wants to date him! As a virgin with very little dating experience, his excitement and happiness over this development is overshadowed with fear. Thank you best friend Demi for being there for him!
Addy is just trying to finish up her last semester at Cornell so she can get on with her life. She’s done the dating thing and the boys she’s ended up with were more interested in frat parties than her. However, when she lays eyes on Theo she is immediately drawn to him. His nerdy goodness just attracts her more and being the modern day woman she is, she asks him out on a date.
[image]
I loved these characters so much! Theo was the perfect geeky hero with his love of comics, his glasses and his sweet stutter. Addy was outgoing and secure in who she was and the perfect complement to him. I loved the way her acceptance of all things Theo helped him to grow even more in confidence.
Together, Addy and Theo just worked. He needed a woman who wasn’t afraid to take the initiative and she needed someone who saw her and enjoyed being with her. Their relationship evolved in a very organic and really sweet way. Their dates were unusual and perfect for them as individuals and as a couple. I enjoyed watching them grow closer, learning about each other while respecting one another along the way. I loved the feeling of “courtship” their early relationship carried with it.
[image]
I can be extremely critical of novellas because most can’t carry the full range of emotions making everything feel rushed. However, Nerdgasm had the perfect pace and character development that a full length book would have and I loved every moment of it. It was full of so much goodness mixed with humor and some intense steam. The secondary characters were amazing! I absolutely MUST have their story immediately! Other than a tiny bit of conflict at the end and the initial bullying in the beginning, I would consider this a low angst read.
Overall, this book was absolutely wonderful!!! It’s the perfect lighthearted feel good read. I highly recommend it!
I absolutely LOVED this novella! Nerds, when done right are my JAM!!!
Theo was bullied throughout life due to his stutter. Students at school were cruel but he learned how to deal with his tormentors in his own way. My heart hurt so much for him! There is nothing worse than feeling isolated and singled out and children can sometimes be the cruelest.
[image]
As an adult he has gained a certain amount of confidence largely due to his ability to control a good portion of his stutter. But when he’s confronted with Addy he loses that control. She’s so beautiful and she wants to date him! As a virgin with very little dating experience, his excitement and happiness over this development is overshadowed with fear. Thank you best friend Demi for being there for him!
Addy is just trying to finish up her last semester at Cornell so she can get on with her life. She’s done the dating thing and the boys she’s ended up with were more interested in frat parties than her. However, when she lays eyes on Theo she is immediately drawn to him. His nerdy goodness just attracts her more and being the modern day woman she is, she asks him out on a date.
[image]
I loved these characters so much! Theo was the perfect geeky hero with his love of comics, his glasses and his sweet stutter. Addy was outgoing and secure in who she was and the perfect complement to him. I loved the way her acceptance of all things Theo helped him to grow even more in confidence.
Together, Addy and Theo just worked. He needed a woman who wasn’t afraid to take the initiative and she needed someone who saw her and enjoyed being with her. Their relationship evolved in a very organic and really sweet way. Their dates were unusual and perfect for them as individuals and as a couple. I enjoyed watching them grow closer, learning about each other while respecting one another along the way. I loved the feeling of “courtship” their early relationship carried with it.
[image]
I can be extremely critical of novellas because most can’t carry the full range of emotions making everything feel rushed. However, Nerdgasm had the perfect pace and character development that a full length book would have and I loved every moment of it. It was full of so much goodness mixed with humor and some intense steam. The secondary characters were amazing! I absolutely MUST have their story immediately! Other than a tiny bit of conflict at the end and the initial bullying in the beginning, I would consider this a low angst read.
Overall, this book was absolutely wonderful!!! It’s the perfect lighthearted feel good read. I highly recommend it!
Oh my gawd! This author is totally killing it with this series! And holy geez! This one is just as good if not better than the previous books! After aOh my gawd! This author is totally killing it with this series! And holy geez! This one is just as good if not better than the previous books! After all, when they’re all freaking amazing, it’s hard to determine which is the best.
Ben and Courtney have known each other since their first year of law school. And from pretty much the first moment, their relationship has been that of enemies. As fierce competitors, they waged battle in the classroom and now they continue to do so in the courtroom. Even so, Ben has been relentless in his pursuit of her. Courtney, despite her attraction to him, has had no issue of turning him down each of the numerous times he’s propositioned her. Until a “swipe right” turns into a no show and Ben is in the right place at the right time.
[image]
Ben has been watching Courtney for years. He can recall every single thing about the first moment he saw her. Her fierce determination to be the best only called forth his own need to be the best man he could be. She isn’t aware that their arguments and banter only makes him want her more. And he can’t count how many times he’s asked her out only to be shot down. But he will never stop trying. When he finally gets an in, he’s taking it and he’s not letting go.
”A rough, possessive edge had entered his voice. Her gaze flew to him just as he bent down and picked up – yep, her panties. His fingers curled around them. “I get that you think I’m a playboy.”
“Um, aren’t you?”
His head tilted back. “Let’s be very clear. I am not playing with you.”
The heartbeat that had just calmed down suddenly sped right back up. “Then what are you doing?”
“Wanting you more than I’ve ever wanted another woman.”
[image]
This book was freaking amazing! I absolutely LOVED the way Ben was one hundred percent determined to keep Courtney and when the need arose, to protect her. He might not be the intense brother, as he has always been laid back, fun and playful, but when he learns someone is stalking her, his protective instincts rise up and he’s more than capable and willing to do what is necessary to keep her safe.
”Like the rest of the world, he saw what Ben wanted him to see. The image he presented to the world.
Good guy, my a$$.
He could fight dirty. He could play hard. He could be the sonofab!tch you never wanted to face in the dark.”
[image]
I’m usually all about the hero, but with this series, I’ve found that the prefect heroine has become an expectation and Courtney more than met mine. She’s feisty and independent, fierce but sweet and caring, and more than capable of kicking tail but never harsh with a tough exterior.
I can’t gush enough about how much I loved this couple as both individuals and as a couple. Their past was rife with the enemies vibe, but beneath it was an attraction that when given a chance flamed into a consuming fire. The danger and conflict they face served to highlight their own strengths and weaknesses and gives the reader the opportunity to see more of what makes each of them click alone and together. And oh my gosh…the twists are everywhere and you will NEVER guess as to how this all plays out.
I can’t recommend this book or this series enough!
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book provided by NetGalley and Hocus Pocus Publishing. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Dual POV Safe (view spoiler)[no ow/om drama; h is not a virgin; while H is considered a playboy, I never saw the reasoning behind it; both have been with others throughout the years; h celibate for 6 months – unsure when last time was for H (hide spoiler)] Triggers (view spoiler)[h was abandoned as a child (hide spoiler)]...more
When Delilah is forced to married, her competitive nature has her determining to marry the most eligible man of the season. HavWhat a great, fun read!
When Delilah is forced to married, her competitive nature has her determining to marry the most eligible man of the season. Having experience at matchmaking, it should be easy enough. However, she finds herself fumbling and bumbling her way through introductions and every other step of the way – the very behavior her mother constantly berates her over. When things get desperate, she turns to a more unique means of making the match…a little bit of magic.
[image]
Thomas has been in love with Delilah forever. She’s always claimed she would never marry and so he stood by her side through all of her quirky misadventures, happy to have her in his life even if not the way he ultimately desires.
[image]
But when she announces it’s time she marries, he’s ready, except even as she shares her news, she also shares who the man will be. And with the plan to be the man in front of her when marriage arose dissolves into despair, he sets out to show her that he has all the qualities she needs in a husband.
This book was so entertaining. While this couple seemed a bit immature for their age at times, I’m a lenient reader and set it aside and made myself believe they were younger. (It’s my prerogative. Lol) With that issue dealt with, I really enjoyed watching Delilah as she bounced about trying to win the only man her mother would approve of. And I adored watching Thomas as he struggled with his feelings of jealousy and possessiveness. He just wanted to claim her as his own but knew that with her background she would never accept that he had always loved her.
[image]
I truly loved just about everything about this book. It has a great pace and before I knew it I was finished and so very satisfied. All the crazy shenanigans were exactly what I was needing at the time. The steam level is low and while there are a couple of scenes where this couple kiss, the smexy didn’t strike until the last ten percent of the story.
[image]
I think this is my first book by this author and I’m excited to check her backlist and find other fun reads.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book provided by NetGalley and St. Martin’s Press. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Dual POV Safe (view spoiler)[this is a man cycle of matchmaking with both h/H having someone matched up with them – but the H is not interested in anyone other than the h and the h isn’t in love with the om; all very innocent and no real drama, except for more hijinks (hide spoiler)] Triggers (view spoiler)[h’s mother hits her, is cruel and unloving (hide spoiler)]...more
Oh my gaaawd!!! This book is one twisted, suspense filled story that kept me on the edge of my seat and refused to let me set it aside for even a momeOh my gaaawd!!! This book is one twisted, suspense filled story that kept me on the edge of my seat and refused to let me set it aside for even a moment!
Four years ago Lakin Hale died among the dark water and tangled stems of a lotus pond. When she awakens in the hospital she has no memory of the attack just blurred images of a red lotus and a faceless man.
[image]
When her case goes cold, she reaches out to FBI agent Rhys Nolan to help her continue the investigation. With disappointment, they must face that there are no new leads but their time together opens the door for a partnership in which they begin to solve other cases that have sat unsolved for too long. When their newest case has eerie semblances to her own, Lakin and Rhys dig deep to find what the connection might be.
Despite the devastation of her past, Lakin is resilient and strong. At least on the surface. Underneath, she battles for control over her murky memories and her obsession with the need to find, if not peace, then at least a sense of closure.
”I was found on the lake’s muddy bank. That dirt never washed off. By the time I left for good, I was the mud.”
[image]
Even though there were times Rhys felt more a secondary character, I absolutely loved him! He was such a huge support for Larkin throughout the investigation. He always seemed to know what she was thinking or what she needed and she found comfort in his ability to do so.
While this story isn’t a heavy romance, it certainly has enough in it to amp up the emotional element. Without Rhys’ point of view it was hard to really know him or his feelings, but this author portrayed him in the most perfect way - while Larkin might have been a bit blind to his feelings, the reader can pick up on them as the story progressed.
”D+mn right I’m jealous of him. Because I want to be the one who saves you.”
[image]
My mind is still in a wonderful whirl of emotion having concluded this amazing book! So many twist and turns that I absolutely never saw coming. There are layers upon layers built within the plot and the most wonderful and amazing of twist at the very end that had me fighting back tears. Because we all need to believe in the unbelievable at times.
I know I’m going to be thinking about this story for a while and enjoying it as I do.
This is a sweet, insta novella about an older couple. Despite the length of the book, it’s actually very well developed as well as the characters. WhoThis is a sweet, insta novella about an older couple. Despite the length of the book, it’s actually very well developed as well as the characters. Who knew that sharing a table at an airport diner could lead to finding happiness for the rest of your life? There is no drama here other than the angst that comes with deciding what to do when you’ve met someone who could change your life and yet you’re both flying to different parts of the world. I actually enjoyed it very much, especially having not read many stories with both a mature hero and heroine.
Oh my! This was soo good! Novellas have to work really hard to get my attention and that’s exactly what this one did. There was a little bit of suspenOh my! This was soo good! Novellas have to work really hard to get my attention and that’s exactly what this one did. There was a little bit of suspended belief but I didn’t care one tiny speck. When the hero’s heart got involved, I absolutely swooned! Okay, not really, but I totally fell into love with him. This was so different than your usual novellas and yet it felt completely developed and oh so sweet. And did I mention that it starts off in the most hilarious of ways? It does. And that just set me up for a great read!
I absolutely LOVED this book! It was cute, sexy, had some suspense and plenty of action. It also had some amazing characters including a jealous posseI absolutely LOVED this book! It was cute, sexy, had some suspense and plenty of action. It also had some amazing characters including a jealous possessive dragon shifter and a curvy thief he’s keeping forever.
Ciara was snarky and fun, and she stood up to her dragon without thought or inhibition. She was a tough heroine but never hard although she quickly learned how to do what was needed in order to help herself as well as him when the situation warranted. I loved watching her grow into her new abilities.
I had a blast watching Jakob go from being grumbly and irritable about his relic and the witch that stole it to trying to figure out what was going on with her and his feelings for her. From the very beginning he wanted her despite what she had done and he stayed in protective mode throughout the book even when he didn’t need to be. He was everything I love about a hero and I’m adding him to my favorite heroes list.
This is the first book in a series and it seems to be setting things up for some conflict that each pair of characters will have to overcome. Having met several of the dragons I’m definitely going to be checking this series out further. It’s a really fast paced read although it’s not necessarily short, the wit is sharp and fun, the steam absolutely sizzling only increasing due to Jakob’s dirty talk, and there is plenty of action and suspense.
I think I’ve just found a new favorite author!
Read this via Kindle Unlimited Dual POV Safe (view spoiler)[no ow drama; h has been wanting to date om that she works with but once she meets H she no longer feels that way – obvious om isn’t really all that into her but thinks of her more as a friend; h is not a virgin; H is not a manho (hide spoiler)] Triggers (view spoiler)[no apparent triggers (hide spoiler)] ...more
Mr. Levine did a fantastic job of Ethan’s voice and due to his performance, this is going down as my favoriteAudiobook – Narrator: Noah Michael Levine
Mr. Levine did a fantastic job of Ethan’s voice and due to his performance, this is going down as my favorite audiobook of all time!
Yes, the story definitely had much to do with my enjoyment of this book but there is no doubt that the soft, vulnerable, sweet voice this narrator gave to this hero is why I loved him so much. Reading the words alone would not have meant near the same as they did listening to the way Mr. Brundy spoke to Helen and especially the way he spoke her name. I just can’t express what exquisite delight listening to Ethan speak gave me. My heart clinched for him in pain, leapt when he showed his amazing character, and rejoiced with him when all his dreams come true. This is definitely one of the sweetest most honorable heroes I’ve ever met and I’ve never met another hero that deserved their happy ever after as this one.
I did struggle some with the narrator’s voice for Helen but truly, his portrayal of Mr. Brundy was by far enough for me to overlook it and still rate this as #1 forever! I really need to know if this narrator does any other character/book with this same accent and dictation as I am quite addicted to it and in need of more. Although, not sure without the amazing characterization to go with it, it would mean as much.
This is a sweet romance without any steam factor but one that will make your heart ache, clinch and yearn just before it runs away with you. The heroine is strong and feisty and early in the book, not really likable. The hero falls in love with her from the moment he first sees her. He is the star in this story. When she seems judgmental about his common ways, he replies with candor and wins her over as well as the reader. I’m not a Regency romance fan, but there is nothing about this book that I would change. I just can’t imagine it any other way than it is.
I listened to this via the Audible Romance Package but I will definitely be adding it to my permanent audio library.
Dual POV Safe (view spoiler)[no mention whether h is virgin or not but I'm going with she's a virgin; no mention of any sexual experience pertaining to the H but OMG is he the sweetest; no sex – although they do consummate their marriage at the end off page (hide spoiler)] Triggers (view spoiler)[her father has lost a lot of money gambling and when the H appears to offer for her and the father realizes the H intends to pay him for her hand in marriage, the father agrees – basically he sells his daught (hide spoiler)] ...more
There is no denying this author writes the exact type of heroes I love. I’m talking, possessive, jealous, protective and inst-love/lust without ever bThere is no denying this author writes the exact type of heroes I love. I’m talking, possessive, jealous, protective and inst-love/lust without ever being over the top, heroes. And while Roland and Eden’s story may not have been my very favorite, these are the type of books that even the least favorite still outshines the best of some authors.
I wasn’t sure how I was going to feel about Roland. He didn’t exactly fare well in the first book of the series when he was part of that couple’s problem – not to mention he had jilted his betrothed due to rumors regarding her looks. In book two he did seem much more agreeable but still intent on finding a wife with great beauty as well as centering his life on amassing trophies and great gain. However, I found him to be an exceptional hero mostly because once he kissed the heroine, he never wanted another woman…at least not in his heart. His head doesn’t quite catch up to his heart until he is caught in a scandal and in that moment he realizes what he had been trying to deny. He wants Eden for his everything.
This series tends to have heroines that are a bit of the underdog. There is usually some reason that they are found to be undesirable as wives and yet once the hero meets them, and even if that hero has a few unflattering thoughts about her, they begin to blossom...in the hero’s eyes. This is a perfect trope for me as it helps to mark my checkboxes while it gives both hero and heroine the chance to become the type of characters I adore. And Eden does so, just as Roland did. She may have started out as a prudish miss, a bit cowardly, and not one to be sought after, but she learns to stand up for herself and speak her mind along the way and most especially at the end.
While I haven’t given any real info about this story in particular, let me say that if medieval romance (although it is set in a make believe kingdom) is your butter and alpha heroes are your jam, this one, as well as the rest in the series, is definitely worth checking out. And I greatly encourage you to do so. The fact that this author will be releasing more like this makes me absolutely giddy. I am now off to stalk her so I won’t miss a new release.
Dual POV Safe (view spoiler)[H goes through with a betrothal agreement to the h’s cousin but during the celebration he confesses to his brothers that it is Eden he wants and that he will not marry the cousin (he hasn’t spoken more than 6 words to her in the entirety of his life) – I implore you not to let this small part deter you from reading as it is so very obvious where his affections lie and the very next morning after the feast he marries the h; H kissed h during a winter feast and six months later he hasn’t kissed or wanted another woman since (hide spoiler)] Triggers (view spoiler)[no apparent triggers (hide spoiler)]...more
With each book from this series I’ve thought, “That was my favorite.” But truly, What About Us is definitely one to beat the others and the reasons arWith each book from this series I’ve thought, “That was my favorite.” But truly, What About Us is definitely one to beat the others and the reasons are Helen and Alex. They are both so unique and completely developed that I felt like I had known them my whole life.
Helen is sassy and quirky but man can she tell you like it is. She doesn’t take any bull from Alex and let me tell you, he tosses a lot of it her way. With a tough outer shell, inside she’s really all marshmallowy soft despite the past years that have made her walk through fire. I loved her complete dedication to remaining the woman her trials had made her even when Alex is able to give her back the life she once had. She wasn’t going to take the easy way out by relying on him financially. That’s kind of my catnip.
Alex doesn’t like loud groups of people and he struggles to communicate his feelings...all the time. When he does speak he pretty much tells it like it is and in the process projects a real a holery vibe to the one he’s talking to, mainly Helen. But man, when he finally finds it within himself to open up he doesn’t go second rate. I loved watching him react to Helen and then fall in love with her. She was all he needed and sometimes his needs meant taking care of her in ways she didn’t want to accept. I loved every moment of it.
This is a fast paced enemies to lovers romance that knocked my socks off with its heat and intensity between these characters. They argued, they sexed it up and they developed a relationship with so much feeling it permeated every page, every word. Despite being part of a series, this can definitely be read as a standalone and it gives a wonderful epilogue that was absolute perfection. I hated to see this couple’s story come to an official close. I highly recommend this to any and everyone!
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book provided by NetGalley and Loveswept. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Dual POV Safe (view spoiler)[no ow drama – H is not a player; om is h’s husband who she hasn’t seen in 10 months – he’s a sleaze bag and she thought she was done with him; H/h have sex despite that she is still officially married (hide spoiler)] Triggers (view spoiler)[domestic abuse (hide spoiler)]...more
I was so excited to see the same narrator as the previous book I had listened to. And unbelievably, she did an eveAudio-book: Narrator - Ashford McNab
I was so excited to see the same narrator as the previous book I had listened to. And unbelievably, she did an even better job on this book! Her voice absolutely pulled me in. When the character’s voices were supposed to tremble with emotion...Ms. McNab’s trembled so convincingly. And when the drama builds and there is wild action and intense response to that action, her voice rose accordingly and oh my gosh! My heart raced as the narrator plunged me right into the middle of the story, the danger, and forced me to be present in it. Gah! I’ve never had such a reaction before. If this story interests you, I highly recommend this audio-book!
Silence’s reputation was ruined by Mickey/Michael and she lost pretty much everything as a result. Now he’s forced her into a situation that leaves her no choice in order to protect and care for little Mary Darling.
Mickey is a man who grew up with nothing, living a life of a nightmare that left him with a deep hunger to control his own destiny and ensure he never lacked for anything again. So when he forces Silence into his home he doesn’t think twice about the consequences.
This was a freaking amazing book! I loved these damaged characters so much and their organic move into love. The gradual change of Mickey’s heart and the slow revealing of Silence’s truth of her own marriage were beautiful things to behold.
I can’t recommend this book enough if historical romance with some action and an anti-hero is your thing.
Multi POV Safe (view spoiler)[it is mentioned that the H had 2 women in his bed but this is like the first day/night after forcing h into his home - no on page scene, no details whatsoever (hide spoiler)] Triggers(view spoiler)[verbal threat of rape on page but h stops it from happening and it is all off page and no details given; childhood neglect, abuse (hide spoiler)] ...more
What a great start for the upcoming book Consumed. This is a wonderful introduction to Anne and Danny as well as the crew they work with. It covers a What a great start for the upcoming book Consumed. This is a wonderful introduction to Anne and Danny as well as the crew they work with. It covers a bit of their history as well as how they have worked together, thought about each other and feel about one another. It’s definitely leading us down an interesting and steamy road. There’s a tinny hint of trouble on the horizon from a past liaison of Danny’s so I’ll be looking out for that but at this point, Anne is all he sees.
Dual POV Safe (view spoiler)[not a lot here yet – H obviously hooked up 6 months ago with ow before that woman became engaged to H’s friend – nothing else said about hookups since he met h 2 yrs ago but his reputation before that time is preceding him as he tries to make a romantic connection with her now; no om drama and nothing stated in regards to any relationships she has had since meeting H (hide spoiler)] Triggers (view spoiler)[no apparent triggers (hide spoiler)] ...more
While Amari is still in the dark as to her designation, what her animal is, her confidence builds in Holy heck! This series just keeps getting better!
While Amari is still in the dark as to her designation, what her animal is, her confidence builds in the face of the dangerous dragons that surround her. She stands up for herself in the face of Jaxon’s formidable nature and yet quakes at the desire he arouses in her. Living in confusion and fear of what will happen upon transition, an event at Jaxon’s homestead causes her to question her very sanity.
Jaxon is more determined than ever to save Amari as her transition looms before them. His soul focus is on preventing her from going rogue and what steps he will have to take to ensure that doesn’t happen. With the assistance of his cadre he begins with her mental communications, or lack thereof. As bit by bit is slowly revealed of her true nature he knows that she is his mate no matter what animal she harbors within.
Amari’s character continues to grow and I loved that even as she was at such a huge disadvantage, she stood up for what she wanted. When even more of her innate nature is revealed I cheered her on despite the edge of sadness and despair that were present within the storyline. My heart hurt for her as well for her lost memories and her uncertainties. She’s a pretty perfect heroine in my opinion. Vulnerable and yet filled with strength when needed.
As Jaxon remains true to his protective, possessive and sometimes jealous tendencies, he is so very sweet as he recognizes the gentle touch or prod that Amari needs. He could easily bulldoze his way in to find what he wants, but he has her best interest at heart and refuses to do the unthinkable simply to quench his own selfishness. I also loved the connection he had with his cadre and the complete loyalty they shared together.
This book is so beautifully written. With the richness of this author’s words to showcase the world these characters live in, as well as intense development between the hero and heroine as well as Jaxon’s cadre, I was completely swept up in this story. There was no way I was going to put this book aside for any reason. It ends on a cliffhanger with so much left unanswered and new drama on the horizon. Although I’ll be so freaking happy to get that final installment, I’m going to actually be sad for this story to end.
I can’t recommend this book enough to anyone who enjoys shifters/dragons, possessive heroes and strongly developed heroines.
Okay, it’s no secret that I’ve loved everything I’ve read by this author but this book is definitely my favorite of them all. There is so much going oOkay, it’s no secret that I’ve loved everything I’ve read by this author but this book is definitely my favorite of them all. There is so much going on here and it’s got all the feels to go along with it. Once I started I couldn’t stop, and it’s not a short book.
I don’t want to give away a lot of the details because as the story unfolds and you learn all the little tidbits along the way it just pulls you further and further into this world of deep ops and secrets. Pippa is living the life of a shut in when she first sees her new neighbor unloading boxes from his truck. She’s pretty much living her life in fear and he only exacerbates them, causing her to have a panic attack. However, she slowly begins to allow herself to open to him without revealing any real truth regarding her background. Soon she’s hot and heavy with the ex-cop and accepting everything he says as truth.
Malcolm suffers from PTSD after living a life of lies during an undercover operation. He’s never had anyone solid in his life before and finds it difficult to trust. Especially when he’s offered a new job. When the woman next door gets all tangled in his life he finds himself once again not really sure who he is anymore.
I really liked both of these characters. They were flawed but real and in the midst of all the drama surrounding them they struggle to do the right thing even when trusting each other is the hardest thing they’ve ever done. I loved watching Pippa morph from the frightened woman hiding in her home into one that took a stand against the thing that had terrified her for most of her life. Malcolm was perfect in his need to protect her and his struggle to give her what she needed.
This has a lot of action as Malcolm and the team he’s recently signed on to work a case. The Requisition Force team was amazing! I can’t wait for you to meet them as they each have their own quirky personalities. Roscoe by far was the most entertaining. Truly, I’ve never read another character with such hilarious idiosyncrasies. And Wolfe is one I’m going to absolutely LOVE watching as the series progresses. I’m just completely gone over all of this unit’s members and they aren’t all just men either. Even the women have me curious to see what they might pull in the future.
I can’t recommend this book enough, especially if you like romantic suspense that is equal in both the romance and the suspense neither overshadowing the other.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book provided by NetGalley and Kensington Books. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
