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4.61k reviews by:
loverofromance
challenging
funny
hopeful
mysterious
medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
A mix
Strong character development:
Complicated
Loveable characters:
Complicated
Diverse cast of characters:
Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus:
No
This review may contain spoilers, so fair warning, upon reading the review. Also my tags may have spoilers in them so be forewarned before checking out full review.
Book Evaluation:
Plot: 🎞️🎞️🎞️🎞️
World Building:🌎🌎🌎
Cover:📔📔📔📔
Hero: 🦸🏻🦸🏻🦸🏻🦸🏻🦸🏻
Heroine:🦸🏻♀️🦸🏻♀️🦸🏻♀️🦸🏻♀️
Intimacy Level: 🔥🔥🔥🔥
Relationship Building: 💒💒💒💒
Heart & Feels:💞💞💞💞💞
Witty/Banter/Reaction of Laughter: 😂😂😂
Page Turner Level:📖📖📖
Narration:🎧🎧🎧🎧
Ending:🧧🧧🧧🧧🧧
Overall View: ✨✨✨✨.25
First Impressions
The Playboy is the first in her "Spade Hotel" series and this was also my first time reading this author. I have been seeing her around a lot lately. So I definitely had my curiosity peaked with this author and I have really loved the vibe of the edits that I have seen for her books and just knew that I needed to try her out. So I decided to pick up "Playboy" cause I do honestly love a good manwhore hero because they make the best reformed men for their ladies. Now I will be honest, the pacing in this book especially in the beginning, is way off and I almost DNF but I decided to switch to the audiobook for a bit and it seemed to help a lot and then I was completely swept into this story physically. You do need to be patient with this one especially if you aren't used to this author's writing style, but once I adjusted to it, I ended falling in love with it.
First Line
"Six beers deep before noon. Now that's a style I can get behind."
The Main Protagonists
The Hero: Macon Spade
The Heroine:Brooklyn
Summary
Macon Spade, is wealthy and has the type of money you would expect from being born into a family wealthier than Midas. He is completely devoted to his family, the business he is running with his family and his love for women and having countless affairs. He isn't ashamed of what he loves and despite what he has seen by his own family and friends, he isn't planning on settling down with one woman....until he meets Brooklyn. In a dance club in Hawaii, he stumbles into a breathtaking woman who steals his heart that one night and he pines for the one woman who is looking for a career and is content being independent as she is. But neither Brooklyn or Macon expected to fall in love or Macon having to work for his woman and convincing her they are worth taking a chance on.
What I Loved
There was quite a bit to love about this one. I can guarantee that you will experience plenty of swoons and feels in this book. I never know what to expect from a fling romance but this one seemed to really work for me in all the best of ways. Once these two really connect and much more than it being about the sex, is where the book SOARED for me. Not really a fan of insta lust books but this author definitely makes it work. The growth of their relationship was so fascinating and I will admit that I lived for the sweet emotional moments that come in at just the right time. And even though there are some secrets in the conflict in the story, there is NO third act breakup and I can't tell you how much I absolutely loved that aspect to the story. We have two people that BOTH make mistakes and keep secrets from each other. But they actually act like true adults and WORK THEIR PROBLEMS OUT and actually learn to communicate like they need. I respected that so much from this author, and for that reason alone I will be continuing on with her books.
What I Struggled With
So what I struggled with the most was the pacing, I just wasn't a fan of how long it took to get into this one, but once I did get into it I fell hard for. The heroine at times was hard to relate to but in other ways I really vibed with her. There are also secrets, that weren't a big deal but became a big deal because they were dragged out, so there was some drama. There was also a bit too abrupt of a ending, it just felt too rushed and I wanted to see more couple time.
Overall View
Playboy is a story that just comes to life on the beautiful island of Hawaii, its a story of the work it takes to build a romantic relationship, learning to let go of ego and your pride, to fight for you heart and the heart of the one you love. its authentic and true to the heart that you will want to join their adventure....
Favorite Quote(s)
“Is there an us?” She nodded. “I see it. I feel it.” She put her hand on mine. “Believe me when I say, I want it.” I watched as she breathed, as she took in my face, as the emotion continued to pass through hers. “You know all I’ve wanted is you.”
Book Details (also in my shelves)
Sub Genre: Contemporary Romance
Character Types: Billionaire Hero, Playboy Hero, Independent Heroine, Sassy Heroine
Themes: Pining Hero, Insta Lust, No Third Act Breakup
Tropes: Rags to Riches, Opposites Attract, Fling/One Night Stand
Book Perspective
Duo POV
Relationship Conflict vs Plot Conflict
Relationship Conflict
If you like these authors, I recommend This Book
Katy Evans
J. Kenner
Lisa Renee Jones
Song This Book Inspires
Yours in the Morning Patrick Droney
Recommendation For Reading Order
You can read as a standalone
Steam/Spice Explanations
Steamin' up the room -the sexual content is more explicit in the language and tone, heavier amount of sexual scenes.
Narrators:
Savannah Peachwood
Tor Thorn
Book Evaluation:
Plot: 🎞️🎞️🎞️🎞️
World Building:🌎🌎🌎
Cover:📔📔📔📔
Hero: 🦸🏻🦸🏻🦸🏻🦸🏻🦸🏻
Heroine:🦸🏻♀️🦸🏻♀️🦸🏻♀️🦸🏻♀️
Intimacy Level: 🔥🔥🔥🔥
Relationship Building: 💒💒💒💒
Heart & Feels:💞💞💞💞💞
Witty/Banter/Reaction of Laughter: 😂😂😂
Page Turner Level:📖📖📖
Narration:🎧🎧🎧🎧
Ending:🧧🧧🧧🧧🧧
Overall View: ✨✨✨✨.25
First Impressions
The Playboy is the first in her "Spade Hotel" series and this was also my first time reading this author. I have been seeing her around a lot lately. So I definitely had my curiosity peaked with this author and I have really loved the vibe of the edits that I have seen for her books and just knew that I needed to try her out. So I decided to pick up "Playboy" cause I do honestly love a good manwhore hero because they make the best reformed men for their ladies. Now I will be honest, the pacing in this book especially in the beginning, is way off and I almost DNF but I decided to switch to the audiobook for a bit and it seemed to help a lot and then I was completely swept into this story physically. You do need to be patient with this one especially if you aren't used to this author's writing style, but once I adjusted to it, I ended falling in love with it.
First Line
"Six beers deep before noon. Now that's a style I can get behind."
The Main Protagonists
The Hero: Macon Spade
The Heroine:Brooklyn
Summary
Macon Spade, is wealthy and has the type of money you would expect from being born into a family wealthier than Midas. He is completely devoted to his family, the business he is running with his family and his love for women and having countless affairs. He isn't ashamed of what he loves and despite what he has seen by his own family and friends, he isn't planning on settling down with one woman....until he meets Brooklyn. In a dance club in Hawaii, he stumbles into a breathtaking woman who steals his heart that one night and he pines for the one woman who is looking for a career and is content being independent as she is. But neither Brooklyn or Macon expected to fall in love or Macon having to work for his woman and convincing her they are worth taking a chance on.
What I Loved
There was quite a bit to love about this one. I can guarantee that you will experience plenty of swoons and feels in this book. I never know what to expect from a fling romance but this one seemed to really work for me in all the best of ways. Once these two really connect and much more than it being about the sex, is where the book SOARED for me. Not really a fan of insta lust books but this author definitely makes it work. The growth of their relationship was so fascinating and I will admit that I lived for the sweet emotional moments that come in at just the right time. And even though there are some secrets in the conflict in the story, there is NO third act breakup and I can't tell you how much I absolutely loved that aspect to the story. We have two people that BOTH make mistakes and keep secrets from each other. But they actually act like true adults and WORK THEIR PROBLEMS OUT and actually learn to communicate like they need. I respected that so much from this author, and for that reason alone I will be continuing on with her books.
What I Struggled With
So what I struggled with the most was the pacing, I just wasn't a fan of how long it took to get into this one, but once I did get into it I fell hard for. The heroine at times was hard to relate to but in other ways I really vibed with her. There are also secrets, that weren't a big deal but became a big deal because they were dragged out, so there was some drama. There was also a bit too abrupt of a ending, it just felt too rushed and I wanted to see more couple time.
Overall View
Playboy is a story that just comes to life on the beautiful island of Hawaii, its a story of the work it takes to build a romantic relationship, learning to let go of ego and your pride, to fight for you heart and the heart of the one you love. its authentic and true to the heart that you will want to join their adventure....
Favorite Quote(s)
“Is there an us?” She nodded. “I see it. I feel it.” She put her hand on mine. “Believe me when I say, I want it.” I watched as she breathed, as she took in my face, as the emotion continued to pass through hers. “You know all I’ve wanted is you.”
Book Details (also in my shelves)
Sub Genre: Contemporary Romance
Character Types: Billionaire Hero, Playboy Hero, Independent Heroine, Sassy Heroine
Themes: Pining Hero, Insta Lust, No Third Act Breakup
Tropes: Rags to Riches, Opposites Attract, Fling/One Night Stand
Book Perspective
Duo POV
Relationship Conflict vs Plot Conflict
Relationship Conflict
If you like these authors, I recommend This Book
Katy Evans
J. Kenner
Lisa Renee Jones
Song This Book Inspires
Yours in the Morning Patrick Droney
Recommendation For Reading Order
You can read as a standalone
Steam/Spice Explanations
Steamin' up the room -the sexual content is more explicit in the language and tone, heavier amount of sexual scenes.
Narrators:
Savannah Peachwood
Tor Thorn
adventurous
challenging
emotional
funny
mysterious
medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
A mix
Strong character development:
Yes
Loveable characters:
Yes
This review may contain spoilers, so fair warning, upon reading the review. Also my tags may have spoilers in them so be forewarned before checking out full review.
Book Evaluation:
Plot: 🎞️🎞️🎞️🎞️🎞️
World Building:🌎🌎🌎🌎🌎
Cover:📔📔📔📔📔
Hero: 🦸🏻🦸🏻🦸🏻🦸🏻🦸🏻
Heroine:🦸🏻♀️🦸🏻♀️🦸🏻♀️🦸🏻♀️
Intimacy Level: 🔥🔥🔥🔥
Relationship Building: 💒💒💒💒💒
Heart & Feels:💞💞💞💞💞
Witty/Banter/Reaction of Laughter: 😂😂😂😂😂
Page Turner Level:📖📖📖📖
Narration:🎧🎧🎧🎧🎧
Ending:🧧🧧🧧🧧🧧
Overall View: ✨✨✨✨.5
First Impressions
The Taming of a Higlander is the second book in the "Midnight in Scotland" series by Elisa Braden. Now this series is somewhat loosely connected to her "Rescued From Ruin" series. I couldn't seem to get enough of this author and her fantastic writing abilities to just suck me into this story. I honestly wasn't sure what I was expecting with this book but it melted my heart in all the good ways. And her writing style is so refreshing from all the modernistic romances we get these days. Its so nice to have such a classic HR feel to a story and Elisa Braden really knocked it out of the park. Its a story that will touch its reader deep to the heart.
First Line
"He Dispatches forty men? All with his dirk?" Hazel eyes glinted with amusement as John Huxley scraped a lean hand across his jaw. "Are you ....certain?"
The Main Protagonists
The Hero: Broderick MacPherson
The Heroine: Kate Huxley
Summary
Broderick MacPherson was wrongfully imprisoned for a crime that he didn't commit and by an enemy he has no clue is the source. After finally being free from prison after being tortured and almost dying, he is slowly recovering and determined to find those that framed him for a crime he didn't commit. But what he doesn't expect, is for a sweet curious lass to catch him in getting revenge on his enemy and now her testimony could incriminate him and the only way to protect him will be for them to marry. Kate Huxley, spent years on the marriage mart and could never seem to be content like her family in marriage, she has thirst for writing and wants to explore her talent in it and Scotland is the greatest inspiration for her. When she has an opportunity to stay in Scotland for good, she takes up the chance, even knowing it would mean marrying a man that terrified her. But as Broderick searches for his enemy, a slow building love grows between Broderick and Kate, a love neither of them expected...
What I Loved
WHAT A BLAST OF A BOOK!!! I honestly was so easily swept away by this book. There was so much to love about this story and I can see why this is one of the most well loved books by Elisa Braden, its definitely justified and I am glad that I own this one in both ebook and audio. You will find that this book is spectacular in every way. Broderick is a tortured hero, gruff and a bit of a recluse. Its justified as he also suffers from PTSD issues from his time in prison. Then we have this light and fluffy woman who just wants to write plays and enjoy the beauty of Scotland. She also isn't afraid to embrace new challenges. Even challenges she was afraid to embrace. I loved her nature. She is a sweet mix of soft, feminine, but striving for more in her life but like many of Braden heroines, treats the hero just right.
The relationship that builds between them is slow. At first, Broderick is trying to push Kate away from him. He doesn't know how to be a husband and is too busy for marriage things lol But Kate has other plans. She is determined to fight for her marriage and most especially this gruff but tender hearted man who just needs someone to love and care for him when he needs it. And I have to say if you need a good laugh....just read their first bedroom scene. I haven't LAUGHED so hard in such a long time. How our heroine practically seduces her husband in such a entertaining way. How this scene was written was pure brilliance!!!
What I Struggled With
There was really only one thing I struggled with....the pacing. The beginning does start out a bit slow, so keep with it for a few chapters and the heroine was a bit ....flighty. lol But Broderick keeps her to earth and grounded.
Narration
This is a fabulous narrator and does such a great job with Braden's books, and I am very picky about historical narrations and this one was so solidly done.
Overall View
The Taming of a Highlander was heartwarming in all the best of ways that Elisa Braden knows how to deliver. Its a story that tackles tough topics while delivering the sweet heart that will melt you in the best of places. A tale of a beauty who loves a scarred soul and teaches him the healing art of love and unselfish caring.
Favorite Quote(s)
She gave him one of her glowing smiles and he cracked, split like wood down the middle. The wood burned to ash revealing what lay inside. Need. Dark Shocking need.
Ye’re a flame in my darkness. I wouldnae have predicted it, given how we met. But nothin’s ever been truer.
Book Details (also in my shelves)
Sub Genre: Historical Romance, Scotland-Victorian Era
Character Types: Alpha Hero, Scarred Hero, Sweet and Sassy Heroine, Playwright Heroine, Tortured Hero
Themes: Pining heroine, All the Feels, Heart/touching, Danger Plot
Tropes: Marriage of Convenience, Forced Marriage, Forced Proximity
Book Perspective
3rd POV
Relationship Conflict vs Plot Conflict
Plot Conflict
If you like these authors, I recommend This Book
Laura Lee Gurhke
Lisa Kleypas
Lorraine Heath
Song This Book Inspires
With You-Cast of Ghost Musical
Recommendation For Reading Order
You can read as a standalone, but works better for family connections to read in order
Steam/Spice Explanations
Steamin' up the room -the sexual content is more explicit in the language and tone, heavier amount of sexual scenes.
Narrators:
Ruth Urquhart
Book Evaluation:
Plot: 🎞️🎞️🎞️🎞️🎞️
World Building:🌎🌎🌎🌎🌎
Cover:📔📔📔📔📔
Hero: 🦸🏻🦸🏻🦸🏻🦸🏻🦸🏻
Heroine:🦸🏻♀️🦸🏻♀️🦸🏻♀️🦸🏻♀️
Intimacy Level: 🔥🔥🔥🔥
Relationship Building: 💒💒💒💒💒
Heart & Feels:💞💞💞💞💞
Witty/Banter/Reaction of Laughter: 😂😂😂😂😂
Page Turner Level:📖📖📖📖
Narration:🎧🎧🎧🎧🎧
Ending:🧧🧧🧧🧧🧧
Overall View: ✨✨✨✨.5
First Impressions
The Taming of a Higlander is the second book in the "Midnight in Scotland" series by Elisa Braden. Now this series is somewhat loosely connected to her "Rescued From Ruin" series. I couldn't seem to get enough of this author and her fantastic writing abilities to just suck me into this story. I honestly wasn't sure what I was expecting with this book but it melted my heart in all the good ways. And her writing style is so refreshing from all the modernistic romances we get these days. Its so nice to have such a classic HR feel to a story and Elisa Braden really knocked it out of the park. Its a story that will touch its reader deep to the heart.
First Line
"He Dispatches forty men? All with his dirk?" Hazel eyes glinted with amusement as John Huxley scraped a lean hand across his jaw. "Are you ....certain?"
The Main Protagonists
The Hero: Broderick MacPherson
The Heroine: Kate Huxley
Summary
Broderick MacPherson was wrongfully imprisoned for a crime that he didn't commit and by an enemy he has no clue is the source. After finally being free from prison after being tortured and almost dying, he is slowly recovering and determined to find those that framed him for a crime he didn't commit. But what he doesn't expect, is for a sweet curious lass to catch him in getting revenge on his enemy and now her testimony could incriminate him and the only way to protect him will be for them to marry. Kate Huxley, spent years on the marriage mart and could never seem to be content like her family in marriage, she has thirst for writing and wants to explore her talent in it and Scotland is the greatest inspiration for her. When she has an opportunity to stay in Scotland for good, she takes up the chance, even knowing it would mean marrying a man that terrified her. But as Broderick searches for his enemy, a slow building love grows between Broderick and Kate, a love neither of them expected...
What I Loved
WHAT A BLAST OF A BOOK!!! I honestly was so easily swept away by this book. There was so much to love about this story and I can see why this is one of the most well loved books by Elisa Braden, its definitely justified and I am glad that I own this one in both ebook and audio. You will find that this book is spectacular in every way. Broderick is a tortured hero, gruff and a bit of a recluse. Its justified as he also suffers from PTSD issues from his time in prison. Then we have this light and fluffy woman who just wants to write plays and enjoy the beauty of Scotland. She also isn't afraid to embrace new challenges. Even challenges she was afraid to embrace. I loved her nature. She is a sweet mix of soft, feminine, but striving for more in her life but like many of Braden heroines, treats the hero just right.
The relationship that builds between them is slow. At first, Broderick is trying to push Kate away from him. He doesn't know how to be a husband and is too busy for marriage things lol But Kate has other plans. She is determined to fight for her marriage and most especially this gruff but tender hearted man who just needs someone to love and care for him when he needs it. And I have to say if you need a good laugh....just read their first bedroom scene. I haven't LAUGHED so hard in such a long time. How our heroine practically seduces her husband in such a entertaining way. How this scene was written was pure brilliance!!!
What I Struggled With
There was really only one thing I struggled with....the pacing. The beginning does start out a bit slow, so keep with it for a few chapters and the heroine was a bit ....flighty. lol But Broderick keeps her to earth and grounded.
Narration
This is a fabulous narrator and does such a great job with Braden's books, and I am very picky about historical narrations and this one was so solidly done.
Overall View
The Taming of a Highlander was heartwarming in all the best of ways that Elisa Braden knows how to deliver. Its a story that tackles tough topics while delivering the sweet heart that will melt you in the best of places. A tale of a beauty who loves a scarred soul and teaches him the healing art of love and unselfish caring.
Favorite Quote(s)
She gave him one of her glowing smiles and he cracked, split like wood down the middle. The wood burned to ash revealing what lay inside. Need. Dark Shocking need.
Ye’re a flame in my darkness. I wouldnae have predicted it, given how we met. But nothin’s ever been truer.
Book Details (also in my shelves)
Sub Genre: Historical Romance, Scotland-Victorian Era
Character Types: Alpha Hero, Scarred Hero, Sweet and Sassy Heroine, Playwright Heroine, Tortured Hero
Themes: Pining heroine, All the Feels, Heart/touching, Danger Plot
Tropes: Marriage of Convenience, Forced Marriage, Forced Proximity
Book Perspective
3rd POV
Relationship Conflict vs Plot Conflict
Plot Conflict
If you like these authors, I recommend This Book
Laura Lee Gurhke
Lisa Kleypas
Lorraine Heath
Song This Book Inspires
With You-Cast of Ghost Musical
Recommendation For Reading Order
You can read as a standalone, but works better for family connections to read in order
Steam/Spice Explanations
Steamin' up the room -the sexual content is more explicit in the language and tone, heavier amount of sexual scenes.
Narrators:
Ruth Urquhart
adventurous
funny
lighthearted
fast-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
A mix
Strong character development:
Yes
Loveable characters:
Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus:
No
This review may contain spoilers, so fair warning, upon reading the review. Also my tags may have spoilers in them so be forewarned before checking out full review.
Book Evaluation:
Plot: 🎞️🎞️🎞️🎞️🎞️
World Building:🌎🌎🌎🌎🌎
Cover:📔📔📔📔📔
Hero: 🦸🏻🦸🏻🦸🏻🦸🏻🦸🏻
Heroine:🦸🏻♀️🦸🏻♀️🦸🏻♀️🦸🏻♀️🦸🏻♀️
Intimacy Level: 🔥🔥🔥
Relationship Building: 💒💒💒💒💒
Heart & Feels:💞💞💞💞💞
Witty/Banter/Reaction of Laughter: 😂😂😂😂😂
Page Turner Level:📖📖📖📖📖
Narration:🎧🎧🎧🎧🎧
Ending:🧧🧧🧧🧧🧧
Overall View: ✨✨✨✨✨
First Impressions
Lady Scandal is the second book in the "Scandal at Savoy" series. After enjoying Bookshop Cinderella, I was looking forward to this one here. But what really convinced me to read this one was Plottrysts on Instagram who convinced me how good this book was and after realizing it had some vibes that were similar to "Lady Sophia's Lover by Lisa Kleypas" type of connection I just knew that I had to pick this one up. I am very grateful that my buddy reader "Brianna" decided to explore this beautiful story with me. I just couldn't get enough of this story. It had delicious banter, a great forced proximity and loved their connection.
First Line
I cannot Madame Contesse. You ask the impossible.
The Main Protagonists
The Hero: Simon Hayden
The Heroine: Delia Stratham
Summary
Lady Scandal brings in the unconventional heroine, Delia Stratham, who helps run a prestigious hotel in London and helps organize many of the events and handles the decor and levels of quality for those of upper level class that use the hotel. But when some of the investors in the hotel, start losing money, the bring in a financial shark...Simon Hayden who is a hotel magnate and will be able to discover what is seeping from the hotel. Delia is furious that she will now have to answer to Simon when she doesn't understand the issues that is very problematic to Simon's eyes. He does see that there are many issues, but despite their attraction, he is determined to keep it professional and handle Delia despite how much she disagrees with his methods. But there is a connection that is forming between Simon and Delia, but Simon may not be able to protect Delia from the fallout of his investigation no matter how much he is fond of her.
What I Loved
Lady Scandal was such a phenomenal read and I had such a blast in the reading of this one. I am very picky about historical romance, and this story just completely worked for me. I couldn't put it down and I especially adored the setup for this couple and what we see them handle and go through together. The hero was a true delight. I just wanted to gobble him up, I just love a starchy, solid in goodness type of hero. You don't always see them at this level as much as I would like to see, so if you love a green flag hero, look no further than Simon. The way he interacts with Delia was perfection, she really needed a firm hand and he balances that firmness just right. I could really see where Simon was coming from and he was firm but also gentle in how he handled Delia. The romance that builds between them was quite enchanting. Its more slow building, but Delia really goes after what she wants and it was quite fun to see her go after Simon. I understood why Simon was so reluctant and I admired the way he handled the situation and how well he was trying to be fair and true to her. Such a white knight of a hero that I couldn't get enough of.
What I Struggled With
The heroine is the only negative aspect to this story. She was self absorbed, flighty and too consumed into buying expensive things. So at first I wasn't sure what I thought about her character but she ended up really working for me because I think Simon had a firm hand that allowed her to calm down and think through things a little bit better.
Narration
I actually did this in Audio mostly and the audio was actually SUPERB. I just didn't want to put this one down at all. And yes I give ALL the credit to the narration. While I did have to slow it down a bit, it really kept me interested in the story and that is more rare in historical's these days.
Overall View
I found Lady Scandal to be a read of tantalizing characters, sexy banter that will leave you consumed by for days, a fun set of circumstances to keep you invested and a romance to cheer this couple on towards!
Favorite Quote(s)
“By the way,” she said, glancing over her shoulder at him as she paused with her hand on the knob, “since I am to be working for you for the foreseeable future, there’s something you should know about me, something you might not yet have observed.” “What’s that?” Steel glinted in her eyes, like a duelist’s sword in the sun. “I don’t respond well to being lectured. I’m a woman, you autocratic bastard, not a naughty child.” Before he could reply, she had walked out, slamming the door behind her with enough force to rattle the painting on the wall. “Woman?” he muttered in the wake of her departure. “Tornado is more like it.”
Book Details (also in my shelves)
Sub Genre: Historical Romance, Victorian Era-England
Character Types: Working Heroine, Aristocracy, Alpha Male, Strong and Sassy Heroine
Themes: laughs and giggles, angst, Witty Banter
Tropes: Boss and Employee, Enemies to Lovers, Office Romance
Book Perspective
3rd POV
Relationship Conflict vs Plot Conflict
A blend of both
If you like these authors, I recommend This Book
Lisa Kleypas
Lorraine Heath
Julie Anne Long
Song This Book Inspires
Labyrinth by Taylor Swift
Recommendation For Reading Order
No, you can read these books as standalone
Steam/Spice Explanations
Warmin' by the fire- a medium level of sexual tension, a balance of sexual and emotional intimacy, lighter on the details in the sexual moments.
Narrators:
Marisa Calin
Book Evaluation:
Plot: 🎞️🎞️🎞️🎞️🎞️
World Building:🌎🌎🌎🌎🌎
Cover:📔📔📔📔📔
Hero: 🦸🏻🦸🏻🦸🏻🦸🏻🦸🏻
Heroine:🦸🏻♀️🦸🏻♀️🦸🏻♀️🦸🏻♀️🦸🏻♀️
Intimacy Level: 🔥🔥🔥
Relationship Building: 💒💒💒💒💒
Heart & Feels:💞💞💞💞💞
Witty/Banter/Reaction of Laughter: 😂😂😂😂😂
Page Turner Level:📖📖📖📖📖
Narration:🎧🎧🎧🎧🎧
Ending:🧧🧧🧧🧧🧧
Overall View: ✨✨✨✨✨
First Impressions
Lady Scandal is the second book in the "Scandal at Savoy" series. After enjoying Bookshop Cinderella, I was looking forward to this one here. But what really convinced me to read this one was Plottrysts on Instagram who convinced me how good this book was and after realizing it had some vibes that were similar to "Lady Sophia's Lover by Lisa Kleypas" type of connection I just knew that I had to pick this one up. I am very grateful that my buddy reader "Brianna" decided to explore this beautiful story with me. I just couldn't get enough of this story. It had delicious banter, a great forced proximity and loved their connection.
First Line
I cannot Madame Contesse. You ask the impossible.
The Main Protagonists
The Hero: Simon Hayden
The Heroine: Delia Stratham
Summary
Lady Scandal brings in the unconventional heroine, Delia Stratham, who helps run a prestigious hotel in London and helps organize many of the events and handles the decor and levels of quality for those of upper level class that use the hotel. But when some of the investors in the hotel, start losing money, the bring in a financial shark...Simon Hayden who is a hotel magnate and will be able to discover what is seeping from the hotel. Delia is furious that she will now have to answer to Simon when she doesn't understand the issues that is very problematic to Simon's eyes. He does see that there are many issues, but despite their attraction, he is determined to keep it professional and handle Delia despite how much she disagrees with his methods. But there is a connection that is forming between Simon and Delia, but Simon may not be able to protect Delia from the fallout of his investigation no matter how much he is fond of her.
What I Loved
Lady Scandal was such a phenomenal read and I had such a blast in the reading of this one. I am very picky about historical romance, and this story just completely worked for me. I couldn't put it down and I especially adored the setup for this couple and what we see them handle and go through together. The hero was a true delight. I just wanted to gobble him up, I just love a starchy, solid in goodness type of hero. You don't always see them at this level as much as I would like to see, so if you love a green flag hero, look no further than Simon. The way he interacts with Delia was perfection, she really needed a firm hand and he balances that firmness just right. I could really see where Simon was coming from and he was firm but also gentle in how he handled Delia. The romance that builds between them was quite enchanting. Its more slow building, but Delia really goes after what she wants and it was quite fun to see her go after Simon. I understood why Simon was so reluctant and I admired the way he handled the situation and how well he was trying to be fair and true to her. Such a white knight of a hero that I couldn't get enough of.
What I Struggled With
The heroine is the only negative aspect to this story. She was self absorbed, flighty and too consumed into buying expensive things. So at first I wasn't sure what I thought about her character but she ended up really working for me because I think Simon had a firm hand that allowed her to calm down and think through things a little bit better.
Narration
I actually did this in Audio mostly and the audio was actually SUPERB. I just didn't want to put this one down at all. And yes I give ALL the credit to the narration. While I did have to slow it down a bit, it really kept me interested in the story and that is more rare in historical's these days.
Overall View
I found Lady Scandal to be a read of tantalizing characters, sexy banter that will leave you consumed by for days, a fun set of circumstances to keep you invested and a romance to cheer this couple on towards!
Favorite Quote(s)
“By the way,” she said, glancing over her shoulder at him as she paused with her hand on the knob, “since I am to be working for you for the foreseeable future, there’s something you should know about me, something you might not yet have observed.” “What’s that?” Steel glinted in her eyes, like a duelist’s sword in the sun. “I don’t respond well to being lectured. I’m a woman, you autocratic bastard, not a naughty child.” Before he could reply, she had walked out, slamming the door behind her with enough force to rattle the painting on the wall. “Woman?” he muttered in the wake of her departure. “Tornado is more like it.”
Book Details (also in my shelves)
Sub Genre: Historical Romance, Victorian Era-England
Character Types: Working Heroine, Aristocracy, Alpha Male, Strong and Sassy Heroine
Themes: laughs and giggles, angst, Witty Banter
Tropes: Boss and Employee, Enemies to Lovers, Office Romance
Book Perspective
3rd POV
Relationship Conflict vs Plot Conflict
A blend of both
If you like these authors, I recommend This Book
Lisa Kleypas
Lorraine Heath
Julie Anne Long
Song This Book Inspires
Labyrinth by Taylor Swift
Recommendation For Reading Order
No, you can read these books as standalone
Steam/Spice Explanations
Warmin' by the fire- a medium level of sexual tension, a balance of sexual and emotional intimacy, lighter on the details in the sexual moments.
Narrators:
Marisa Calin
adventurous
mysterious
medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
Plot
Strong character development:
No
Loveable characters:
Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus:
No
This review may contain spoilers, so fair warning, upon reading the review. Also my tags may have spoilers in them so be forewarned before checking out full review.
Book Evaluation:
Plot: 🎞️🎞️🎞️🎞️
World Building:🌎🌎🌎🌎
Cover:📔📔📔📔
Hero: 🦸🏻🦸🏻🦸🏻🦸🏻
Heroine:🦸🏻♀️🦸🏻♀️🦸🏻♀️🦸🏻♀️
Intimacy Level: 🔥🔥🔥
Relationship Building: 💒💒💒
Heart & Feels:💞💞💞
Witty/Banter/Reaction of Laughter: 😂😂😂😂
Page Turner Level:📖📖📖
Narration:🎧🎧🎧
Ending:🧧🧧🧧🧧
Overall View: ✨✨✨
First Impressions
The Seelie King is the fifth book in the "Kings" books. I have been wanting to continue the series but at this point I am wondering if I should switch to the ebook instead of the audio because I just have the most challenging time focusing on this narrator or it could be the way the books are written but I think I need to try to read these in a different format as I just felt like I missed scenes and couldn't feel the connection between these two.
First Line
The Main Protagonists
The Hero: King Avery
The Heroine: Selene
Summary
The setup is that Selene has lived in the mortal world but she is far from truly mortal and human. She and her twin sister were left on a doorstep and was raised by a more mature couple who loved them. Selene has a connection to any animal and she struggles seeing what is happening to humanity, the loss of morals and compassion being slowly drained from the mortal realm. But she has abilities she doesn't know yet, she is a wisher, many of her people were destroyed and barely managed to escape.And she is the first fae to come to the light. As she binds herself to her true mate, the king of the Seelie fae, she will embrace her true destiny.
What I Loved
I really liked these characters, Selene was strong without being overpowering. I liked that she seemed to have a balance of compassion and strong will within her. She has a great connection to the animal kingdom and I loved seeing the various ways that she connects to animals. So if you are a animal lover, then I can see how this book would truly work for you. I did enjoy the hero, he is masculine and with just the right touch of alpha without being a jerk or super overbearing.
What I Struggled With
Honestly many things, and I have to wonder if this is just because of having it on audiobook and just not being able to focus on it which is not normal. But I felt completely lost in this story and just didn't feel the chemistry and romance that was happening between our hero and heroine. I wanted to and at first it seemed neat, but there were other plot lines happening and just seemed to side line what was happening with the hero and heroine. And it could also be a symptom of these books could use an extra 50-80 pages to focus a bit more on the relationship and that felt lacking.
Narration
While I like some aspects of it, it seemed hard to focus on it.
Overall View
While I had some positive times with The Seelie King and found the world building fascinating, there was more than one plot happening and seemed to be confusing at times. But I still recommend this author as I really had a fun time with the earlier books in the series.
Book Details (also in my shelves)
Sub Genre: Paranormal/Fantasy Romance
Character Types: Vampire, Fae, Royalty
Themes: Danger/Suspense, Magical, Psychic Abilities
Tropes: Fated Love
Book Perspective
3rd POV
Relationship Conflict vs Plot Conflict
Plot Conflict
If you like these authors, I recommend This Book
Jeaniene Frost
J.R. Ward
Lana Pecherczyk
Recommendation For Reading Order
Yes, I urge reading in order if possible
Steam/Spice Explanations
Warmin' by the fire- a medium level of sexual tension, a balance of sexual and emotional intimacy, lighter on the details in the sexual moments.
Narrators:
Antony Ferguson
Book Evaluation:
Plot: 🎞️🎞️🎞️🎞️
World Building:🌎🌎🌎🌎
Cover:📔📔📔📔
Hero: 🦸🏻🦸🏻🦸🏻🦸🏻
Heroine:🦸🏻♀️🦸🏻♀️🦸🏻♀️🦸🏻♀️
Intimacy Level: 🔥🔥🔥
Relationship Building: 💒💒💒
Heart & Feels:💞💞💞
Witty/Banter/Reaction of Laughter: 😂😂😂😂
Page Turner Level:📖📖📖
Narration:🎧🎧🎧
Ending:🧧🧧🧧🧧
Overall View: ✨✨✨
First Impressions
The Seelie King is the fifth book in the "Kings" books. I have been wanting to continue the series but at this point I am wondering if I should switch to the ebook instead of the audio because I just have the most challenging time focusing on this narrator or it could be the way the books are written but I think I need to try to read these in a different format as I just felt like I missed scenes and couldn't feel the connection between these two.
First Line
The Main Protagonists
The Hero: King Avery
The Heroine: Selene
Summary
The setup is that Selene has lived in the mortal world but she is far from truly mortal and human. She and her twin sister were left on a doorstep and was raised by a more mature couple who loved them. Selene has a connection to any animal and she struggles seeing what is happening to humanity, the loss of morals and compassion being slowly drained from the mortal realm. But she has abilities she doesn't know yet, she is a wisher, many of her people were destroyed and barely managed to escape.And she is the first fae to come to the light. As she binds herself to her true mate, the king of the Seelie fae, she will embrace her true destiny.
What I Loved
I really liked these characters, Selene was strong without being overpowering. I liked that she seemed to have a balance of compassion and strong will within her. She has a great connection to the animal kingdom and I loved seeing the various ways that she connects to animals. So if you are a animal lover, then I can see how this book would truly work for you. I did enjoy the hero, he is masculine and with just the right touch of alpha without being a jerk or super overbearing.
What I Struggled With
Honestly many things, and I have to wonder if this is just because of having it on audiobook and just not being able to focus on it which is not normal. But I felt completely lost in this story and just didn't feel the chemistry and romance that was happening between our hero and heroine. I wanted to and at first it seemed neat, but there were other plot lines happening and just seemed to side line what was happening with the hero and heroine. And it could also be a symptom of these books could use an extra 50-80 pages to focus a bit more on the relationship and that felt lacking.
Narration
While I like some aspects of it, it seemed hard to focus on it.
Overall View
While I had some positive times with The Seelie King and found the world building fascinating, there was more than one plot happening and seemed to be confusing at times. But I still recommend this author as I really had a fun time with the earlier books in the series.
Book Details (also in my shelves)
Sub Genre: Paranormal/Fantasy Romance
Character Types: Vampire, Fae, Royalty
Themes: Danger/Suspense, Magical, Psychic Abilities
Tropes: Fated Love
Book Perspective
3rd POV
Relationship Conflict vs Plot Conflict
Plot Conflict
If you like these authors, I recommend This Book
Jeaniene Frost
J.R. Ward
Lana Pecherczyk
Recommendation For Reading Order
Yes, I urge reading in order if possible
Steam/Spice Explanations
Warmin' by the fire- a medium level of sexual tension, a balance of sexual and emotional intimacy, lighter on the details in the sexual moments.
Narrators:
Antony Ferguson
challenging
dark
emotional
funny
This review may contain spoilers, so fair warning, upon reading the review. Also my tags may have spoilers in them so be forewarned before checking out full review.
Book Evaluation:
Plot: 🎞️🎞️🎞️🎞️🎞️🎞️
World Building:🌎🌎🌎🌎🌎.5
Cover:📔📔📔📔📔
Hero: 🦸🏻🦸🏻🦸🏻🦸🏻🦸🏻
Heroine:🦸🏻♀️🦸🏻♀️🦸🏻♀️🦸🏻♀️🦸🏻♀️
Intimacy Level: 🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥
Relationship Building: 💒💒💒💒💒
Heart & Feels:💞💞💞💞💞
Witty/Banter/Reaction of Laughter: 😂😂😂😂😂😂
Page Turner Level:📖📖📖📖📖📖
Narration:🎧🎧🎧🎧🎧
Ending:🧧🧧🧧🧧🧧
Overall View: ✨✨✨✨✨✨
First Impressions
God of War is the finale to the Rinaverse and to this series "Legacy of Gods". God of War is the story for Eli and Ana. This is a story that I did have a hard time getting through the beginning for, I am not going to lie, so why did I rate this book a 6 star rating? Well because Rina Kent did the work on this one and it completely WON MY HEART. The complexity, the chemistry, the swoony warm feels that I got from this book just delivered in every way that I expect from a Rina Kent and more. I truly think that this is one of her best works! I have such a softness for a marriage in trouble type of set up and this marriage is definitely on the edge and the way that this was developed just fed my romantic heart in every way. Its not for the faint of heart, so be prepared for some tough tackled topics in this one.
First Line
The foul mixture of liquor, the latest drug on the market, and a sense of euphoria flows through me as I sway to the loud music.
The Main Protagonists
The Hero: Eli King
The Heroine: Ava Nash
Summary
Eli King is much like his father, Aiden King, only even more in control of his empire and has an edge to him not even his father has. But Ava has been in love with Eli since she was a young teenager and never truly fell out of love with him. But he has made her also hate him. Ava is the daughter of a man who despises Aiden King and absolutely has laid down the law that Eli is forbidden fruit....but sometimes the forbidden fruit is the best taste of all. But when she ends up in a accident and doesn't remember the last two years of her life and finds out she is married to Eli King, she doesn't know what to make of it. Only that he is controlling every aspect of her life, she feels herself spiraling but somehow Eli is able to be her anchor from the madness she fears will control her one day. But Eli has his own motivations, and when everything comes to light and out of the shadows....will their love survive?
What I Loved
Whew this book completely blew me away! I can't say what it was about this book that I loved the most, maybe what I was drawn to the most was their married connection? It had some similarities to one of her other books that kinda had a similar set up but ended up being completely different than I expect. How she was able to build this story in ONE book I have no clue, I could easily see her exploring this couple with a whole duo or even a trilogy. But loved that she kept it a bit more simple, as the complexity of the plot really worked out so well on it.
Eli and Ava are such a great pairing, once they got over the angst that they have for each other. For much of the book, you aren't sure of Eli's motivations and what is happening behind the scenes, and what happened in the past that Ava doesn't remember? But with each chapter, we get a glimpse into Eli's side of the story and I loved seeing his devotion to Ava even though he comes off as being the enemy, but in the end he ends up being the anchor that she will need. We also see another issue that gets well tackled...Ava is struggling with a mental illness and she hids it beneath the exterior of being this party barbie who loves everything pink and lives for playing her cello. I didn't know what to make of Ava, to be honest, she isn't really my type of heroine. I am glad that I stuck with this book, because in the beginning I was really turned off by her character. But I can say that I loved what we see in her character in the end. I also was fascinated to see what the secrets would be and the author really delivers on these and times it in such a way that really builds up the tension when it needs to be.
What I Struggled With
The beginning is a struggle, work through the first few chapters and you will be SOLD. I guarantee it.
Narration
I did the last 1/3 of this book in audio and I can highly recommend it in audio, it was superb in every way. She had some amazing narrators do the work for this one here.
Overall View
God of War is a story that digs deep into mental illness, and the beautiful hearts that get caught up in the forbidden taste and the inner strength that is essential to overcome the unique challenges that come along with it. Rina Kent delivers a story that will sink into your soul with spice, heart achingly emotion to tug those vulnerable heartstrings and sells a story of a painful war of hearts that portrays how LOVE DOES CONQUER ALL WHEN THE HEART IS INVOLVED IN THE BATTLE OF WILLS!
Favorite Quote(s)
"I'll carve my name beneath her skin so deeply. Shell find me in her dreams. And her nightmares.
“You’re a beautiful mythical being who can be born from the ashes of your illness.”
"“The lack of you has stripped my world of color and made me realize you’re my sole light in the darkness.”
“Why? Why can’t you see me, Eli?” I stare at her glittering eyes that resemble a whirling storm. “I do see you. More than anything or anyone.”
Book Details (also in my shelves)
Sub Genre: Dark Romance, Contemporary Romance
Character Types: Billionaire, Morally Grey Alpha, Spirited Heroine
Themes: Dual Pining, Mental Illness, Family Saga, Marriage in Trouble
Tropes: Married Couple, Grumpy Sunshine, Enemies to Lovers, Unrequited Love
Book Perspective
Duo POV
Relationship Conflict vs Plot Conflict
Both
If you like these authors, I recommend This Book
Lisa Renee Jones
Jagger Cole
J. Kenner
Song This Book Inspires
Cradles by Sub Urban
Recommendation For Reading Order
Yes!
Steam/Spice Explanations
Steamin' up the room -the sexual content is more explicit in the language and tone, heavier amount of sexual scenes.
Narrators:
Shane East
Zara Hampton Brown
Book Evaluation:
Plot: 🎞️🎞️🎞️🎞️🎞️🎞️
World Building:🌎🌎🌎🌎🌎.5
Cover:📔📔📔📔📔
Hero: 🦸🏻🦸🏻🦸🏻🦸🏻🦸🏻
Heroine:🦸🏻♀️🦸🏻♀️🦸🏻♀️🦸🏻♀️🦸🏻♀️
Intimacy Level: 🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥
Relationship Building: 💒💒💒💒💒
Heart & Feels:💞💞💞💞💞
Witty/Banter/Reaction of Laughter: 😂😂😂😂😂😂
Page Turner Level:📖📖📖📖📖📖
Narration:🎧🎧🎧🎧🎧
Ending:🧧🧧🧧🧧🧧
Overall View: ✨✨✨✨✨✨
First Impressions
God of War is the finale to the Rinaverse and to this series "Legacy of Gods". God of War is the story for Eli and Ana. This is a story that I did have a hard time getting through the beginning for, I am not going to lie, so why did I rate this book a 6 star rating? Well because Rina Kent did the work on this one and it completely WON MY HEART. The complexity, the chemistry, the swoony warm feels that I got from this book just delivered in every way that I expect from a Rina Kent and more. I truly think that this is one of her best works! I have such a softness for a marriage in trouble type of set up and this marriage is definitely on the edge and the way that this was developed just fed my romantic heart in every way. Its not for the faint of heart, so be prepared for some tough tackled topics in this one.
First Line
The foul mixture of liquor, the latest drug on the market, and a sense of euphoria flows through me as I sway to the loud music.
The Main Protagonists
The Hero: Eli King
The Heroine: Ava Nash
Summary
Eli King is much like his father, Aiden King, only even more in control of his empire and has an edge to him not even his father has. But Ava has been in love with Eli since she was a young teenager and never truly fell out of love with him. But he has made her also hate him. Ava is the daughter of a man who despises Aiden King and absolutely has laid down the law that Eli is forbidden fruit....but sometimes the forbidden fruit is the best taste of all. But when she ends up in a accident and doesn't remember the last two years of her life and finds out she is married to Eli King, she doesn't know what to make of it. Only that he is controlling every aspect of her life, she feels herself spiraling but somehow Eli is able to be her anchor from the madness she fears will control her one day. But Eli has his own motivations, and when everything comes to light and out of the shadows....will their love survive?
What I Loved
Whew this book completely blew me away! I can't say what it was about this book that I loved the most, maybe what I was drawn to the most was their married connection? It had some similarities to one of her other books that kinda had a similar set up but ended up being completely different than I expect. How she was able to build this story in ONE book I have no clue, I could easily see her exploring this couple with a whole duo or even a trilogy. But loved that she kept it a bit more simple, as the complexity of the plot really worked out so well on it.
Eli and Ava are such a great pairing, once they got over the angst that they have for each other. For much of the book, you aren't sure of Eli's motivations and what is happening behind the scenes, and what happened in the past that Ava doesn't remember? But with each chapter, we get a glimpse into Eli's side of the story and I loved seeing his devotion to Ava even though he comes off as being the enemy, but in the end he ends up being the anchor that she will need. We also see another issue that gets well tackled...Ava is struggling with a mental illness and she hids it beneath the exterior of being this party barbie who loves everything pink and lives for playing her cello. I didn't know what to make of Ava, to be honest, she isn't really my type of heroine. I am glad that I stuck with this book, because in the beginning I was really turned off by her character. But I can say that I loved what we see in her character in the end. I also was fascinated to see what the secrets would be and the author really delivers on these and times it in such a way that really builds up the tension when it needs to be.
What I Struggled With
The beginning is a struggle, work through the first few chapters and you will be SOLD. I guarantee it.
Narration
I did the last 1/3 of this book in audio and I can highly recommend it in audio, it was superb in every way. She had some amazing narrators do the work for this one here.
Overall View
God of War is a story that digs deep into mental illness, and the beautiful hearts that get caught up in the forbidden taste and the inner strength that is essential to overcome the unique challenges that come along with it. Rina Kent delivers a story that will sink into your soul with spice, heart achingly emotion to tug those vulnerable heartstrings and sells a story of a painful war of hearts that portrays how LOVE DOES CONQUER ALL WHEN THE HEART IS INVOLVED IN THE BATTLE OF WILLS!
Favorite Quote(s)
"I'll carve my name beneath her skin so deeply. Shell find me in her dreams. And her nightmares.
“You’re a beautiful mythical being who can be born from the ashes of your illness.”
"“The lack of you has stripped my world of color and made me realize you’re my sole light in the darkness.”
“Why? Why can’t you see me, Eli?” I stare at her glittering eyes that resemble a whirling storm. “I do see you. More than anything or anyone.”
Book Details (also in my shelves)
Sub Genre: Dark Romance, Contemporary Romance
Character Types: Billionaire, Morally Grey Alpha, Spirited Heroine
Themes: Dual Pining, Mental Illness, Family Saga, Marriage in Trouble
Tropes: Married Couple, Grumpy Sunshine, Enemies to Lovers, Unrequited Love
Book Perspective
Duo POV
Relationship Conflict vs Plot Conflict
Both
If you like these authors, I recommend This Book
Lisa Renee Jones
Jagger Cole
J. Kenner
Song This Book Inspires
Cradles by Sub Urban
Recommendation For Reading Order
Yes!
Steam/Spice Explanations
Steamin' up the room -the sexual content is more explicit in the language and tone, heavier amount of sexual scenes.
Narrators:
Shane East
Zara Hampton Brown
adventurous
challenging
emotional
fast-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
A mix
Strong character development:
Yes
Loveable characters:
Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus:
No
This review may contain spoilers, so fair warning, upon reading the review. Also my tags may have spoilers in them so be forewarned before checking out full review.
Book Evaluation:
Plot: 🎞️🎞️🎞️🎞️
World Building:🌎🌎🌎🌎
Cover:📔📔📔📔📔
Hero: 🦸🏻🦸🏻🦸🏻🦸🏻🦸🏻
Heroine:🦸🏻♀️🦸🏻♀️🦸🏻♀️🦸🏻♀️🦸🏻♀️
Intimacy Level: 🔥🔥🔥🔥
Relationship Building: 💒💒💒💒💒
Heart & Feels:💞💞💞💞💞
Witty/Banter/Reaction of Laughter: 😂😂😂
Page Turner Level:📖📖📖📖📖
Narration:🎧🎧🎧🎧🎧
Ending:🧧🧧🧧🧧
Overall View: ✨✨✨✨.5
First Impressions
End Game was the epic finale of the "Dirty Money" series and I had such a fun time with this one here. It was really great to see things come to its final conclusion and fair warning that it does have some moments that are hard to read as it deals with tough issues of shame and grief as the beginning is coming off of a tragedy and that is really hard to see. But the author really tackles the human element so well. It also gives the readers plenty of happy couple page time as we see them resolve and tie loose ends as they are moving forward with their lives and embracing their HEA that they both have worked so hard for.
First Line
I will live to hurt you. I will live to torture you. You will die a slow, painful death for this.
The Main Protagonists
The Hero: Shane
The Heroine: Emily
Summary
Shane and Emily have barely survived a tragedy with their own lives, and it cost them greatly one that holds dear to them. But as they work through it together as a couple, they learn to fight for what matters for them and make a stand of what is right. There are still some secrets happening with Shane's parents, and the drug cartel, but the conflict is coming to a close for both them, they will have to make prepare for the upcoming danger but also for embracing their happy ever...
What I Loved
Is all the happy couple page time that we get in this book. Majority of the plot machinations of the series get resolved pretty early in this story, so we get to see our couple embracing their future and making such wonderful plans with each other. This is what I love about one couple series, is all the couple page time that we deserve and Lisa Renee Jones definitely delivers in this aspect. There was also plenty of justice done in this story which I found satisfying but we also see our characters deal with real emotions here especially as they learn to deal with their losses. We see such a close intimacy between Shane and Emily, and we really get to see how much they uplift and encourage each other. We such such true partnership in this and I love seeing how well they compliment each other in various aspects.
What I Struggled With
So I wanted so much for this book that I was a bit disappointed that we didn't receive. I really wanted to love what what was delivered, and while I was hooked and loved the happy couple page times, the actual serial plot aspects, there were just so many things left untied for this one. I just was expecting more to happy with the parents and the drug cartel that didn't really happen. And I wanted more justice for the parents who caused so much damage that just didn't happen for them, not in the way I was hoping for and it did feel like there was more happening in their secrets that just fell flat. So the execution of the finale in the serial plot didn't quite do these books justice as I was hoping for.
Narration
Just like in the previous books, the narration was superb in every way and kept me completely hooked and I didn't want to put them down at all.
Overall View
End Game was a fierce finale that brings together hard tough emotion and delivering a swoony happy ending worth all the solid stars! It delivered in what I look for in a romance and I can't wait to read the connecting series to this world.
Favorite Quote(s)
Book Evaluation:
Plot: 🎞️🎞️🎞️🎞️
World Building:🌎🌎🌎🌎
Cover:📔📔📔📔📔
Hero: 🦸🏻🦸🏻🦸🏻🦸🏻🦸🏻
Heroine:🦸🏻♀️🦸🏻♀️🦸🏻♀️🦸🏻♀️🦸🏻♀️
Intimacy Level: 🔥🔥🔥🔥
Relationship Building: 💒💒💒💒💒
Heart & Feels:💞💞💞💞💞
Witty/Banter/Reaction of Laughter: 😂😂😂
Page Turner Level:📖📖📖📖📖
Narration:🎧🎧🎧🎧🎧
Ending:🧧🧧🧧🧧
Overall View: ✨✨✨✨.5
First Impressions
End Game was the epic finale of the "Dirty Money" series and I had such a fun time with this one here. It was really great to see things come to its final conclusion and fair warning that it does have some moments that are hard to read as it deals with tough issues of shame and grief as the beginning is coming off of a tragedy and that is really hard to see. But the author really tackles the human element so well. It also gives the readers plenty of happy couple page time as we see them resolve and tie loose ends as they are moving forward with their lives and embracing their HEA that they both have worked so hard for.
First Line
I will live to hurt you. I will live to torture you. You will die a slow, painful death for this.
The Main Protagonists
The Hero: Shane
The Heroine: Emily
Summary
Shane and Emily have barely survived a tragedy with their own lives, and it cost them greatly one that holds dear to them. But as they work through it together as a couple, they learn to fight for what matters for them and make a stand of what is right. There are still some secrets happening with Shane's parents, and the drug cartel, but the conflict is coming to a close for both them, they will have to make prepare for the upcoming danger but also for embracing their happy ever...
What I Loved
Is all the happy couple page time that we get in this book. Majority of the plot machinations of the series get resolved pretty early in this story, so we get to see our couple embracing their future and making such wonderful plans with each other. This is what I love about one couple series, is all the couple page time that we deserve and Lisa Renee Jones definitely delivers in this aspect. There was also plenty of justice done in this story which I found satisfying but we also see our characters deal with real emotions here especially as they learn to deal with their losses. We see such a close intimacy between Shane and Emily, and we really get to see how much they uplift and encourage each other. We such such true partnership in this and I love seeing how well they compliment each other in various aspects.
What I Struggled With
So I wanted so much for this book that I was a bit disappointed that we didn't receive. I really wanted to love what what was delivered, and while I was hooked and loved the happy couple page times, the actual serial plot aspects, there were just so many things left untied for this one. I just was expecting more to happy with the parents and the drug cartel that didn't really happen. And I wanted more justice for the parents who caused so much damage that just didn't happen for them, not in the way I was hoping for and it did feel like there was more happening in their secrets that just fell flat. So the execution of the finale in the serial plot didn't quite do these books justice as I was hoping for.
Narration
Just like in the previous books, the narration was superb in every way and kept me completely hooked and I didn't want to put them down at all.
Overall View
End Game was a fierce finale that brings together hard tough emotion and delivering a swoony happy ending worth all the solid stars! It delivered in what I look for in a romance and I can't wait to read the connecting series to this world.
Favorite Quote(s)
“For you, sweetheart, I will do anything.”
“She is sweetness. She is perfection. She is the light in the darkness that I can find nowhere else.”
Book Details (also in my shelves)
Sub Genre: Contemporary Romance, Romantic Suspense
Character Types: Alpha Male, Billionaire Hero, Spirited Heroine, Morally Grey Hero
Themes: Couple Against the World, Power Couple, Heart/Touching
Tropes: Epic Love
Book Perspective
Duo POV
Relationship Conflict vs Plot Conflict
Plot Conflict
If you like these authors, I recommend This Book
Meghan March
J. Kenner
G.T. Geissinger
Song This Book Inspires
Cold Blood by Dave Not Dave
Recommendation For Reading Order
Yes, You do need to read books 1-3 FIRST before picking up this one here.
Steam/Spice Explanations
Steamin' up the room -the sexual content is more explicit in the language and tone, heavier amount of sexual scenes.
Narrators:
Jeremy York, Grace Grant
challenging
dark
emotional
mysterious
tense
fast-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
Plot
Strong character development:
Yes
Loveable characters:
Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus:
No
This review may contain spoilers, so fair warning, upon reading the review. Also my tags may have spoilers in them so be forewarned before checking out full review.
Book Evaluation:
Plot: 🎞️🎞️🎞️🎞️🎞️
World Building:🌎🌎🌎🌎🌎
Cover:📔📔📔📔
Hero: 🦸🏻🦸🏻🦸🏻🦸🏻
Heroine:🦸🏻♀️🦸🏻♀️🦸🏻♀️🦸🏻♀️
Intimacy Level: 🔥🔥🔥🔥
Relationship Building: 💒💒💒💒
Heart & Feels:💞💞💞💞
Witty/Banter/Reaction of Laughter: 😂😂
Page Turner Level:📖📖📖📖📖
Narration:🎧🎧🎧🎧🎧
Ending:🧧🧧🧧🧧
Overall View: ✨✨✨✨.25
First Impressions
Bad Deeds is the third installment in the "Dirty Money" series and I knew going into this one we would go down a bit darker of a road than what we have seen so far. And yes it does get a little bit edgy in this one, the hero becomes more morally gray in this book and there is a WILD cliffhanger. So you want to make sure you have the final book ready to read. I also really enjoyed the way in which this story developed. We really see how our hero is battling a war within himself just like he is trying to battle the drug lord and his family secrets. I was curious to see where the author would take it and it doesn't get too dark but it definitely goes borderline on that spectrum. But you definitely see a story that will satisfy you until the end there.
First Line
"You could always sacrifice your queen and let her die a royal death. Would it--would she---be worth it to win?"
The Main Protagonists
The Hero: Shane
The Heroine: Emily
Summary
The story sets off with starting off where the second book ended, where Emily is threatened with death by Derek (Shane's brother) and runs outside. Shane goes out after it, and Emily is reasonably shaken after that dangerous threat. But all this does is solidify Shane's protectiveness towards Emily. He knows he won't be easy to keep her safe from his family machinations. There are mysteries that are revealed about his family involvement with the drug lord and different key players coming on the board of this dangerous chess game that could cost them their lives? But Will Shane lose who he is in the playing these dark games with these players who will destroy everything that he holds dear? Will he and Emily rise above the upcoming challenges? Or will they lose everything they hold dear?
What I Loved
Whew! This book was edgy and thrilling and kept me so fascinated all the way through. The author really takes the hero "Shane" especially on a self journey. He is having to compromise some values in order to play games with the drug cartel, and we see how that affects him and it affects his relationship more than he realizes with Emily. We also see how this also affects them in the bedroom. It was interesting to see some elements of BDSM that was showcased in this one here. Its not heavy or strong, but there are some scenes of it here that makes sense with what is happening with our characters in the story. It really flows together here. We really see how Shane is willing to do whatever it takes to win in the end but it will come at a terrible cost in the end. We also see more happening with the family politics.
What I Struggled With
The only thing I was disappointed in was the lack of plot dealing with the heroine. We get plenty of build up on it in the first two books and then it just falls flat and I was hoping we would see some of that. So I do feel like there could have been more build up on the plot with the heroine and her brother that felt so intense in books 1 and 2. But also feel like there is more happening with the parents that weren't revealed quite yet.
Narration
FANTASTIC! Its a narration that has me not wanting to put this one down at all! This pairing is so well done on it.
Overall View
Bad Deeds is a book that will dig deeper into the human elements of the conflict that develops when fighting evil, its filled with edge, morally grey moments and stunning unity that comes to our pair! SUPERB IN SO MANY WAYS!
Favorite Quote(s)
Book Evaluation:
Plot: 🎞️🎞️🎞️🎞️🎞️
World Building:🌎🌎🌎🌎🌎
Cover:📔📔📔📔
Hero: 🦸🏻🦸🏻🦸🏻🦸🏻
Heroine:🦸🏻♀️🦸🏻♀️🦸🏻♀️🦸🏻♀️
Intimacy Level: 🔥🔥🔥🔥
Relationship Building: 💒💒💒💒
Heart & Feels:💞💞💞💞
Witty/Banter/Reaction of Laughter: 😂😂
Page Turner Level:📖📖📖📖📖
Narration:🎧🎧🎧🎧🎧
Ending:🧧🧧🧧🧧
Overall View: ✨✨✨✨.25
First Impressions
Bad Deeds is the third installment in the "Dirty Money" series and I knew going into this one we would go down a bit darker of a road than what we have seen so far. And yes it does get a little bit edgy in this one, the hero becomes more morally gray in this book and there is a WILD cliffhanger. So you want to make sure you have the final book ready to read. I also really enjoyed the way in which this story developed. We really see how our hero is battling a war within himself just like he is trying to battle the drug lord and his family secrets. I was curious to see where the author would take it and it doesn't get too dark but it definitely goes borderline on that spectrum. But you definitely see a story that will satisfy you until the end there.
First Line
"You could always sacrifice your queen and let her die a royal death. Would it--would she---be worth it to win?"
The Main Protagonists
The Hero: Shane
The Heroine: Emily
Summary
The story sets off with starting off where the second book ended, where Emily is threatened with death by Derek (Shane's brother) and runs outside. Shane goes out after it, and Emily is reasonably shaken after that dangerous threat. But all this does is solidify Shane's protectiveness towards Emily. He knows he won't be easy to keep her safe from his family machinations. There are mysteries that are revealed about his family involvement with the drug lord and different key players coming on the board of this dangerous chess game that could cost them their lives? But Will Shane lose who he is in the playing these dark games with these players who will destroy everything that he holds dear? Will he and Emily rise above the upcoming challenges? Or will they lose everything they hold dear?
What I Loved
Whew! This book was edgy and thrilling and kept me so fascinated all the way through. The author really takes the hero "Shane" especially on a self journey. He is having to compromise some values in order to play games with the drug cartel, and we see how that affects him and it affects his relationship more than he realizes with Emily. We also see how this also affects them in the bedroom. It was interesting to see some elements of BDSM that was showcased in this one here. Its not heavy or strong, but there are some scenes of it here that makes sense with what is happening with our characters in the story. It really flows together here. We really see how Shane is willing to do whatever it takes to win in the end but it will come at a terrible cost in the end. We also see more happening with the family politics.
What I Struggled With
The only thing I was disappointed in was the lack of plot dealing with the heroine. We get plenty of build up on it in the first two books and then it just falls flat and I was hoping we would see some of that. So I do feel like there could have been more build up on the plot with the heroine and her brother that felt so intense in books 1 and 2. But also feel like there is more happening with the parents that weren't revealed quite yet.
Narration
FANTASTIC! Its a narration that has me not wanting to put this one down at all! This pairing is so well done on it.
Overall View
Bad Deeds is a book that will dig deeper into the human elements of the conflict that develops when fighting evil, its filled with edge, morally grey moments and stunning unity that comes to our pair! SUPERB IN SO MANY WAYS!
Favorite Quote(s)
She is the sunshine that was never supposed to exist in this storm I'm living.
"A blade in your hand now. A blade in your heart, or back, later."
Book Details (also in my shelves)
Sub Genre: Contemporary Romance, Romantic Suspense
Character Types: Alpha Male, Morally Grey Hero, Spirited Heroine
Themes: Danger/Suspense, Couple Together Early On, Power Couple
Tropes: Epic Love
Book Perspective
Duo POV
Relationship Conflict vs Plot Conflict
Plot Conflict
If you like these authors, I recommend This Book
J. Kenner
Katy Evans
Meghan March
Song This Book Inspires
You're the One That I Want by Lo-Fang
Recommendation For Reading Order
Yes. I highly recommend reading in order
Steam/Spice Explanations
Steamin' up the room -the sexual content is more explicit in the language and tone, heavier amount of sexual scenes.
Narrators:
Jeremy York, Grace Grant
challenging
emotional
mysterious
tense
fast-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
A mix
Strong character development:
Yes
Loveable characters:
Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus:
No
This review may contain spoilers, so fair warning, upon reading the review. Also my tags may have spoilers in them so be forewarned before checking out full review.
Book Evaluation:
Plot: 🎞️🎞️🎞️🎞️🎞️
World Building:🌎🌎🌎🌎🌎
Cover:📔📔📔📔📔
Hero: 🦸🏻🦸🏻🦸🏻🦸🏻🦸🏻
Heroine:🦸🏻♀️🦸🏻♀️🦸🏻♀️🦸🏻♀️🦸🏻♀️
Intimacy Level: 🔥🔥🔥🔥
Relationship Building: 💒💒💒💒💒
Heart & Feels:💞💞💞💞💞
Witty/Banter/Reaction of Laughter: 😂😂😂😂
Page Turner Level:📖📖📖📖📖
Narration:🎧🎧🎧🎧🎧
Ending:🧧🧧🧧🧧🧧
Overall View: ✨✨✨✨✨
First Impressions
Damage Control made such a better impression than the first book "Hard Rules" and wow did I love this book. I literally couldn't put it down. It swept me away completely. I love books where we see plenty of happy couple page time while the serial plot grows throughout the story. From the beginning we see the secret reveals from the heroine, and what she is running from. Then we have her joining forces with the hero Shane, and them really becoming united on a front and I loved this connection that we see growing between them. I did like how much they are learning to trust in each other and what a fun ride book 2 was.
First Line
"No more lies," I repeat, my hands pressed ot the counter behind Emily, my body caging against my kitchen island, though it's her web of lies that is now her prison, and my personal hell.
The Main Protagonists
The Hero: Shane Brandon
The Heroine: Emily
Summary
Shane and Emily are crossing a threshold of secrets and truths being revealed. Emily is terrified that her past will haunt them both and she won't put Shane at risk. So she puts Shane and his security quite through some interesting adventures, but eventually Shane is able to make Emily face up to the honesty that is burning in her to share, and as she does, she finds that Shane will stand by her and her past and support her and protect her no matter what else is happening in his life. Emily is learning to trust and learning what being in a relationship with a powerful man like Shane actually means.
What I Loved
Whew this one was such a wild ride and I had a absolute blast with this one here. I literally didn't want to put this book down and that is literally the best feeling in the world especially you have been struggling with getting fully into books. I will say that one of my favorite aspects was one that hero being such a chase for the heroine. He is willing to fight for the relationship and forcing her to do the same and I loved seeing this level of investment into the relationship. Then we have all the happy couple page time we have. Despite the danger and secrets surrounding our couple, seeing them really unify with each other within their relationship was very heartfelt and definitely had a vibe of this couple taking on the world and winning in th end. There is a level of confidence and surety that they will make it and they will fight to make it happen. The plot of the story keeps you on edge and this author definitely knows how to write her suspense aspects to books and I really adored seeing what we get in this one here.
What I Struggled With
Nothing, I had a blast with it from beginning to end
Narration
Like the first book, this narration duo I had just as much fun and they really brought out the inner voice of these characters and building up the right tone for the series that is definitely this author's stamp.
Overall View
Damage Control is a story that takes you into a plunge of suspense, intrigue, crime and secrets that keeps your heart racing from beginning to end. Its a thrilling take of romantic suspense with a mix of epic love and passion! A TRULY EXHILIRATING READ!
Favorite Quote(s)
There is a war raging not just with my family, but within me, between good and evil.
Book Details (also in my shelves)
Sub Genre: Contemporary Romance, Romantic Suspense
Character Types: Alpha Male, Protector, Lawyer Hero
Themes: Danger/Suspense, Hot Smexy Times
Tropes: Epic Love
Book Perspective
Duo POV
Relationship Conflict vs Plot Conflict
A Blend
If you like these authors, I recommend This Book
Meghan March
Rebecca Zanetti
J. Kenner
Song This Book Inspires
Devil Side by Foxes
Recommendation For Reading Order
Yes
Steam/Spice Explanations
Steamin' up the room -the sexual content is more explicit in the language and tone, heavier amount of sexual scenes.
Narrators:
Jeremy York, Grace Grant
Book Evaluation:
Plot: 🎞️🎞️🎞️🎞️🎞️
World Building:🌎🌎🌎🌎🌎
Cover:📔📔📔📔📔
Hero: 🦸🏻🦸🏻🦸🏻🦸🏻🦸🏻
Heroine:🦸🏻♀️🦸🏻♀️🦸🏻♀️🦸🏻♀️🦸🏻♀️
Intimacy Level: 🔥🔥🔥🔥
Relationship Building: 💒💒💒💒💒
Heart & Feels:💞💞💞💞💞
Witty/Banter/Reaction of Laughter: 😂😂😂😂
Page Turner Level:📖📖📖📖📖
Narration:🎧🎧🎧🎧🎧
Ending:🧧🧧🧧🧧🧧
Overall View: ✨✨✨✨✨
First Impressions
Damage Control made such a better impression than the first book "Hard Rules" and wow did I love this book. I literally couldn't put it down. It swept me away completely. I love books where we see plenty of happy couple page time while the serial plot grows throughout the story. From the beginning we see the secret reveals from the heroine, and what she is running from. Then we have her joining forces with the hero Shane, and them really becoming united on a front and I loved this connection that we see growing between them. I did like how much they are learning to trust in each other and what a fun ride book 2 was.
First Line
"No more lies," I repeat, my hands pressed ot the counter behind Emily, my body caging against my kitchen island, though it's her web of lies that is now her prison, and my personal hell.
The Main Protagonists
The Hero: Shane Brandon
The Heroine: Emily
Summary
Shane and Emily are crossing a threshold of secrets and truths being revealed. Emily is terrified that her past will haunt them both and she won't put Shane at risk. So she puts Shane and his security quite through some interesting adventures, but eventually Shane is able to make Emily face up to the honesty that is burning in her to share, and as she does, she finds that Shane will stand by her and her past and support her and protect her no matter what else is happening in his life. Emily is learning to trust and learning what being in a relationship with a powerful man like Shane actually means.
What I Loved
Whew this one was such a wild ride and I had a absolute blast with this one here. I literally didn't want to put this book down and that is literally the best feeling in the world especially you have been struggling with getting fully into books. I will say that one of my favorite aspects was one that hero being such a chase for the heroine. He is willing to fight for the relationship and forcing her to do the same and I loved seeing this level of investment into the relationship. Then we have all the happy couple page time we have. Despite the danger and secrets surrounding our couple, seeing them really unify with each other within their relationship was very heartfelt and definitely had a vibe of this couple taking on the world and winning in th end. There is a level of confidence and surety that they will make it and they will fight to make it happen. The plot of the story keeps you on edge and this author definitely knows how to write her suspense aspects to books and I really adored seeing what we get in this one here.
What I Struggled With
Nothing, I had a blast with it from beginning to end
Narration
Like the first book, this narration duo I had just as much fun and they really brought out the inner voice of these characters and building up the right tone for the series that is definitely this author's stamp.
Overall View
Damage Control is a story that takes you into a plunge of suspense, intrigue, crime and secrets that keeps your heart racing from beginning to end. Its a thrilling take of romantic suspense with a mix of epic love and passion! A TRULY EXHILIRATING READ!
Favorite Quote(s)
There is a war raging not just with my family, but within me, between good and evil.
Book Details (also in my shelves)
Sub Genre: Contemporary Romance, Romantic Suspense
Character Types: Alpha Male, Protector, Lawyer Hero
Themes: Danger/Suspense, Hot Smexy Times
Tropes: Epic Love
Book Perspective
Duo POV
Relationship Conflict vs Plot Conflict
A Blend
If you like these authors, I recommend This Book
Meghan March
Rebecca Zanetti
J. Kenner
Song This Book Inspires
Devil Side by Foxes
Recommendation For Reading Order
Yes
Steam/Spice Explanations
Steamin' up the room -the sexual content is more explicit in the language and tone, heavier amount of sexual scenes.
Narrators:
Jeremy York, Grace Grant
adventurous
challenging
dark
emotional
mysterious
tense
medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
A mix
Strong character development:
Yes
Loveable characters:
Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus:
No
This review may contain spoilers, so fair warning, upon reading the review. Also my tags may have spoilers in them so be forewarned before checking out full review.
Book Evaluation:
Plot: 🎞️🎞️🎞️🎞️
World Building:🌎🌎🌎🌎
Cover:📔📔📔📔
Hero: 🦸🏻🦸🏻🦸🏻🦸🏻🦸🏻
Heroine:🦸🏻♀️🦸🏻♀️🦸🏻♀️🦸🏻♀️
Intimacy Level: 🔥🔥🔥🔥
Relationship Building: 💒💒💒💒💒
Heart & Feels:💞💞💞💞💞
Witty/Banter/Reaction of Laughter: 😂😂😂
Page Turner Level:📖📖📖
Narration:🎧🎧🎧🎧
Ending:🧧🧧🧧🧧
Overall View: ✨✨✨✨
First Impressions
Hard Rules is the first book in the "Dirty Money" series and it slowly introduces the world of Dirty Money to the reader. It starts off with a meet cute between our main characters "Shane and Emily" this is a story that is packed with corruption, secrets and thirst for power and is focused on the Brandon family who are entrenched in things that Shane is determined to get their family out of. This is a story that will start very slow for the reader, and to be honest, I recommend listening to the audiobook or just give it a wide forgiveness range as the story doesn't really get you invested until about halfway, you just need to stick with it and then you will get hooked and won't want to put it down.
First Line
"Tequila and tonic number two," I say, setting the drink on top of a Martina's Casa Napkin for the dark, good looking stranger who'd come in asking for my brother.
The Main Protagonists
The Hero: Shane Brandon
The Heroine: Emily
Summary
Hard Rules begins with Emily having to go on the run and in secret when she discovers something dangerous but has a set of secrets that could put someone she cares about in danger. Then we have Shane Brandon, who is a wall street lawyer, but came back home to get things in order after his family had a close scare with the law. But his family are entrenched in things against the law, secret after secret, and he is the only one who is determined to keep the business legitimate so they don't end up in prison. But he is playing a dangerous game, and he doesn't know the true intentions of the other players in this game of chess and he will have to play it carefully. But could it be the most dangerous player of all is the one that is closest to him?
What I Loved
Whew! This book was edgy and kept me so interested. There was so much fascination with the build up of the plot and seeing what was happening with the Brandon family and where each player was truly invested. And even at the end of this book you will be even more mystified by the Brandon family and no true answers will be given and I kinda love that. THIS element is what I truly love the most about this author. She really knows how to write such mysterious characters and kept you guessing all the way through.
Even though the romance is slowly built and it will take a while to get invested...once you become invested, then you will get hooked. Once I was hooked, I was so in tune with these characters and wanted to cheer them on. There is such a deep connection that these two have with each other, and I did love the mystery behind the heroine. Even though part of the story is from her POV, you still don't know what is happening with her or what her TRUE motivations are and I kinda love that it was written like this. Normally you see exactly where the heroine is coming from. But in this book, its a complete mystery and you have to wonder what she is doing with Shane and if she is a enemy or friend and it only builds up the tension that is building between them.
What I Struggled With
The first half of the story will be a struggle for some readers. Even though I was completely into the plot with the Brandon family, the actual romance between Shane and Emily is hard to become invested in. But if you stick with it, its worth it in the end. I almost did DNF this book, but I switched to the audio and I highly recommend going that route because the narration really pulls you into the story if physically reading it isn't quite doing it for you. Now keep in mind you probably won't become invested in the romance plot until about 50%....but once you get hooked, you will NOT want to put it down. The only thing that I would recommend being better is having a beginning that was more addictive in getting the reader to be tugged into the romance side of things here as I can see some readers DNF this book over it.
Narration
This narration is done by Jeremy York and Grace Grant and these two made a great pair. I am not sure I have listened to York with this female narrator but I enjoyed it quite a bit. She really balanced it well with Jeremy York and I did love seeing Jeremy York doing the male POV in this story to be honest. And I am also glad it had Jeremy, because he can always pull me into a story if I am struggling with it otherwise.
Overall View
I found Hard Rules to be a interesting but captivating read that once you are invested, will addict you like the best romantic drug in the business. You will be pulled different directions, be battling with your conscience and not knowing which way to turn which makes it a great mystery you can get behind!
Favorite Quote(s)
"It's time for some rules?"
"Rules? What rules?"
"Hard rules. And hard rule number one is, no more lies."
Book Details (also in my shelves)
Sub Genre: Contemporary Romance, Romantic Suspense, Dark Romance
Character Types: Alpha Male, Lawyer
Themes: Danger/Suspense, Secrets, Secret Relationship, Meet Cute
Tropes: Mistaken Identity, Protector
Book Perspective
Duo POV
Relationship Conflict vs Plot Conflict
A blend
If you like these authors, I recommend This Book
Maggie Cole
Willow Winters
Meghan March
Song This Book Inspires
Outnumbered by Dermot Kennedy
Recommendation For Reading Order
Yes
Steam/Spice Explanations
Steamin' up the room -the sexual content is more explicit in the language and tone, heavier amount of sexual scenes.
Narrators:
Grace Grant
Jeremy York
Book Evaluation:
Plot: 🎞️🎞️🎞️🎞️
World Building:🌎🌎🌎🌎
Cover:📔📔📔📔
Hero: 🦸🏻🦸🏻🦸🏻🦸🏻🦸🏻
Heroine:🦸🏻♀️🦸🏻♀️🦸🏻♀️🦸🏻♀️
Intimacy Level: 🔥🔥🔥🔥
Relationship Building: 💒💒💒💒💒
Heart & Feels:💞💞💞💞💞
Witty/Banter/Reaction of Laughter: 😂😂😂
Page Turner Level:📖📖📖
Narration:🎧🎧🎧🎧
Ending:🧧🧧🧧🧧
Overall View: ✨✨✨✨
First Impressions
Hard Rules is the first book in the "Dirty Money" series and it slowly introduces the world of Dirty Money to the reader. It starts off with a meet cute between our main characters "Shane and Emily" this is a story that is packed with corruption, secrets and thirst for power and is focused on the Brandon family who are entrenched in things that Shane is determined to get their family out of. This is a story that will start very slow for the reader, and to be honest, I recommend listening to the audiobook or just give it a wide forgiveness range as the story doesn't really get you invested until about halfway, you just need to stick with it and then you will get hooked and won't want to put it down.
First Line
"Tequila and tonic number two," I say, setting the drink on top of a Martina's Casa Napkin for the dark, good looking stranger who'd come in asking for my brother.
The Main Protagonists
The Hero: Shane Brandon
The Heroine: Emily
Summary
Hard Rules begins with Emily having to go on the run and in secret when she discovers something dangerous but has a set of secrets that could put someone she cares about in danger. Then we have Shane Brandon, who is a wall street lawyer, but came back home to get things in order after his family had a close scare with the law. But his family are entrenched in things against the law, secret after secret, and he is the only one who is determined to keep the business legitimate so they don't end up in prison. But he is playing a dangerous game, and he doesn't know the true intentions of the other players in this game of chess and he will have to play it carefully. But could it be the most dangerous player of all is the one that is closest to him?
What I Loved
Whew! This book was edgy and kept me so interested. There was so much fascination with the build up of the plot and seeing what was happening with the Brandon family and where each player was truly invested. And even at the end of this book you will be even more mystified by the Brandon family and no true answers will be given and I kinda love that. THIS element is what I truly love the most about this author. She really knows how to write such mysterious characters and kept you guessing all the way through.
Even though the romance is slowly built and it will take a while to get invested...once you become invested, then you will get hooked. Once I was hooked, I was so in tune with these characters and wanted to cheer them on. There is such a deep connection that these two have with each other, and I did love the mystery behind the heroine. Even though part of the story is from her POV, you still don't know what is happening with her or what her TRUE motivations are and I kinda love that it was written like this. Normally you see exactly where the heroine is coming from. But in this book, its a complete mystery and you have to wonder what she is doing with Shane and if she is a enemy or friend and it only builds up the tension that is building between them.
What I Struggled With
The first half of the story will be a struggle for some readers. Even though I was completely into the plot with the Brandon family, the actual romance between Shane and Emily is hard to become invested in. But if you stick with it, its worth it in the end. I almost did DNF this book, but I switched to the audio and I highly recommend going that route because the narration really pulls you into the story if physically reading it isn't quite doing it for you. Now keep in mind you probably won't become invested in the romance plot until about 50%....but once you get hooked, you will NOT want to put it down. The only thing that I would recommend being better is having a beginning that was more addictive in getting the reader to be tugged into the romance side of things here as I can see some readers DNF this book over it.
Narration
This narration is done by Jeremy York and Grace Grant and these two made a great pair. I am not sure I have listened to York with this female narrator but I enjoyed it quite a bit. She really balanced it well with Jeremy York and I did love seeing Jeremy York doing the male POV in this story to be honest. And I am also glad it had Jeremy, because he can always pull me into a story if I am struggling with it otherwise.
Overall View
I found Hard Rules to be a interesting but captivating read that once you are invested, will addict you like the best romantic drug in the business. You will be pulled different directions, be battling with your conscience and not knowing which way to turn which makes it a great mystery you can get behind!
Favorite Quote(s)
"It's time for some rules?"
"Rules? What rules?"
"Hard rules. And hard rule number one is, no more lies."
Book Details (also in my shelves)
Sub Genre: Contemporary Romance, Romantic Suspense, Dark Romance
Character Types: Alpha Male, Lawyer
Themes: Danger/Suspense, Secrets, Secret Relationship, Meet Cute
Tropes: Mistaken Identity, Protector
Book Perspective
Duo POV
Relationship Conflict vs Plot Conflict
A blend
If you like these authors, I recommend This Book
Maggie Cole
Willow Winters
Meghan March
Song This Book Inspires
Outnumbered by Dermot Kennedy
Recommendation For Reading Order
Yes
Steam/Spice Explanations
Steamin' up the room -the sexual content is more explicit in the language and tone, heavier amount of sexual scenes.
Narrators:
Grace Grant
Jeremy York
adventurous
dark
funny
mysterious
tense
fast-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
A mix
Strong character development:
Yes
Loveable characters:
Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus:
No
This review may contain spoilers, so fair warning, upon reading the review. Also my tags may have spoilers in them so be forewarned before checking out full review.
Book Evaluation:
Plot: 🎞️🎞️🎞️🎞️🎞️
World Building:🌎🌎🌎🌎🌎
Cover:📔📔📔📔
Hero: 🦸🏻🦸🏻🦸🏻🦸🏻🦸🏻
Heroine:🦸🏻♀️🦸🏻♀️🦸🏻♀️🦸🏻♀️🦸🏻♀️
Intimacy Level: 🔥🔥🔥🔥
Relationship Building: 💒💒💒💒💒
Heart & Feels:💞💞💞💞💞
Witty/Banter/Reaction of Laughter: 😂😂😂😂😂
Page Turner Level:📖📖📖📖📖
Ending:🧧🧧🧧🧧🧧
Overall View: ✨✨✨✨✨
First Impressions
Drawn To Darkness is the fourth installment in the "Kings of Mafia" series. I have enjoyed this series, but this book is by far my favorite of the series. I absolutely couldn't get enough of it. It delivered in all the ways that I love to see from Michelle Heard and what a interesting take on a mafia romance. It was a bit softer in some respects, and the author really brought to light her talent of humor here. Something that isn't common in her writing since she started writing mafia romance. But I loved the balance that we got with this story.
First Line
Opening my eyes, I listen to the sirens blaring around the neighborhood.
The Main Protagonists
The Hero: Dario
The Heroine: Eden
Summary
Drawn to Darkness is a story about a young women, Eden, who is barely surviving. She lives in the most criminal area of town, with neighbors that look out for each other, and working multiple jobs and spending her time dancing at night to express her joy and talent that is raw and real. Then she stumbles into Dario, who is the owner of the dance club she works at, but as they keep running into each other, her secrets from her can't be hidden for long. Dario is determined to find her and get beneath all of her secrets. But once he learns everything will he be able to keep her safe from those that would use her for her mother's crimes?
What I Loved
There were so many elements to this story that I actually adored. What I was most drawn to was the sweet romance. I love how these two got on together. The moments when she was dancing for him was so sensual and well written as it definitely captivates your attention. The connection that builds between Dario and Eden is powerful and charming. They have some great banter and we have somewhat pretty normal characters for a mafia romance which I truly loved so dearly.
Our hero is actually the tamest of the group actually, but is the HEART of the mafia crew. He is the one that works in the background, he works as a hacker and can find anyone or get any piece of information for those that he is loyal to. He is really just slightly morally grey, who barely skirts the law. So definitely a bit lighter feel to this mafia romance in some elements. Which I actually found refreshing that this story felt so "Normal" and nothing crazy or out of bonds, felt more romantic suspense with a good alpha male or a more edgy contemporary over a dark romance, but it still worked for me. And if you love good humor and want more of that in a dark mafia romance, then you will definitely enjoy how that is implemented in this one here.
The third act conflict was tremendously written. I was on the edge of my seat all the way through that. I never expected that to happen to be honest, but I see why it was written and how well it worked. There was a great level of suspense and I appreciated that there was a focus on human trafficking, that isn't as covered in romance as I would like it to be considering how common it actually is. And seeing how this group comes together to solve it and really comes as support for our pair was superb in every way.
What I Struggled With
Nothing really. I would have enjoyed this more if I hadn't been experiencing my blood pressure issues. But it was still a book that I literally couldn't put down which hasn't put down in months.
Overall View
Drawn To Darkness is a superb story that captivates the reader from the beginning, a story to keep you all addicted from the beginning to end and delivering a softer mafia romance with plenty of heart and edgy thrilling suspense to keep you entrenched into the story.
Favorite Quote(s)
“I’m starting to fall in love with you because you’re a fighter who dances like an angel. You might not have much, but you’ve worked hard to carve out a little space for yourself in this world. You could’ve given in to your circumstances, but you’re working your ass off to rise above them. That shit takes so much fucking courage and determination, and it demands my respect.”
Book Details (also in my shelves)
Sub Genre: Dark Romance, Romantic Suspense, Contemporary Romance
Character Types: Hacker, Dancer, Mafia
Themes: Danger/Suspense, Pining Hero
Tropes:Unrequited Love, Rags to Riches, Opposites Attract
Book Perspective
DUO Pov
Relationship Conflict vs Plot Conflict
Both
If you like these authors, I recommend This Book
Sophie Lark
Cora Reilly
Maggie Cole
Song This Book Inspires
I'll Make You Love Me by Kat Leon
Recommendation For Reading Order
You can read as a standalone, the series is only loosely connected
Steam/Spice Explanations
Steamin' up the room -the sexual content is more explicit in the language and tone, heavier amount of sexual scenes.
Book Evaluation:
Plot: 🎞️🎞️🎞️🎞️🎞️
World Building:🌎🌎🌎🌎🌎
Cover:📔📔📔📔
Hero: 🦸🏻🦸🏻🦸🏻🦸🏻🦸🏻
Heroine:🦸🏻♀️🦸🏻♀️🦸🏻♀️🦸🏻♀️🦸🏻♀️
Intimacy Level: 🔥🔥🔥🔥
Relationship Building: 💒💒💒💒💒
Heart & Feels:💞💞💞💞💞
Witty/Banter/Reaction of Laughter: 😂😂😂😂😂
Page Turner Level:📖📖📖📖📖
Ending:🧧🧧🧧🧧🧧
Overall View: ✨✨✨✨✨
First Impressions
Drawn To Darkness is the fourth installment in the "Kings of Mafia" series. I have enjoyed this series, but this book is by far my favorite of the series. I absolutely couldn't get enough of it. It delivered in all the ways that I love to see from Michelle Heard and what a interesting take on a mafia romance. It was a bit softer in some respects, and the author really brought to light her talent of humor here. Something that isn't common in her writing since she started writing mafia romance. But I loved the balance that we got with this story.
First Line
Opening my eyes, I listen to the sirens blaring around the neighborhood.
The Main Protagonists
The Hero: Dario
The Heroine: Eden
Summary
Drawn to Darkness is a story about a young women, Eden, who is barely surviving. She lives in the most criminal area of town, with neighbors that look out for each other, and working multiple jobs and spending her time dancing at night to express her joy and talent that is raw and real. Then she stumbles into Dario, who is the owner of the dance club she works at, but as they keep running into each other, her secrets from her can't be hidden for long. Dario is determined to find her and get beneath all of her secrets. But once he learns everything will he be able to keep her safe from those that would use her for her mother's crimes?
What I Loved
There were so many elements to this story that I actually adored. What I was most drawn to was the sweet romance. I love how these two got on together. The moments when she was dancing for him was so sensual and well written as it definitely captivates your attention. The connection that builds between Dario and Eden is powerful and charming. They have some great banter and we have somewhat pretty normal characters for a mafia romance which I truly loved so dearly.
Our hero is actually the tamest of the group actually, but is the HEART of the mafia crew. He is the one that works in the background, he works as a hacker and can find anyone or get any piece of information for those that he is loyal to. He is really just slightly morally grey, who barely skirts the law. So definitely a bit lighter feel to this mafia romance in some elements. Which I actually found refreshing that this story felt so "Normal" and nothing crazy or out of bonds, felt more romantic suspense with a good alpha male or a more edgy contemporary over a dark romance, but it still worked for me. And if you love good humor and want more of that in a dark mafia romance, then you will definitely enjoy how that is implemented in this one here.
The third act conflict was tremendously written. I was on the edge of my seat all the way through that. I never expected that to happen to be honest, but I see why it was written and how well it worked. There was a great level of suspense and I appreciated that there was a focus on human trafficking, that isn't as covered in romance as I would like it to be considering how common it actually is. And seeing how this group comes together to solve it and really comes as support for our pair was superb in every way.
What I Struggled With
Nothing really. I would have enjoyed this more if I hadn't been experiencing my blood pressure issues. But it was still a book that I literally couldn't put down which hasn't put down in months.
Overall View
Drawn To Darkness is a superb story that captivates the reader from the beginning, a story to keep you all addicted from the beginning to end and delivering a softer mafia romance with plenty of heart and edgy thrilling suspense to keep you entrenched into the story.
Favorite Quote(s)
“I’m starting to fall in love with you because you’re a fighter who dances like an angel. You might not have much, but you’ve worked hard to carve out a little space for yourself in this world. You could’ve given in to your circumstances, but you’re working your ass off to rise above them. That shit takes so much fucking courage and determination, and it demands my respect.”
Book Details (also in my shelves)
Sub Genre: Dark Romance, Romantic Suspense, Contemporary Romance
Character Types: Hacker, Dancer, Mafia
Themes: Danger/Suspense, Pining Hero
Tropes:Unrequited Love, Rags to Riches, Opposites Attract
Book Perspective
DUO Pov
Relationship Conflict vs Plot Conflict
Both
If you like these authors, I recommend This Book
Sophie Lark
Cora Reilly
Maggie Cole
Song This Book Inspires
I'll Make You Love Me by Kat Leon
Recommendation For Reading Order
You can read as a standalone, the series is only loosely connected
Steam/Spice Explanations
Steamin' up the room -the sexual content is more explicit in the language and tone, heavier amount of sexual scenes.