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This review was originally posted on Addicted To Romance
This review may contain spoilers, so fair warning, upon reading the review.
First Impressions
There With You is the second book in the Adair Family series and after loving the first book I was more than ready to get this book read and I am so happy that I finally picked it up. I had some reservations concerning this heroine, as I didn’t receive the best impression of her in the first book. But from the first chapter, I knew that this book would work for me and yeah I was right on that because this book was everything that I could have hoped for and more.. I don’t know what it is about this series that just works for me, but they are becoming some of my favorites of this authors work and she has some great past work I have loved dearly. I really was intrigued by the heroine though, and she definitely isn’t a character you expect and she has more depth and layers to her personality than you would expect. This is a boss/employee relationship and it definitely worked for me, I felt like it was written really well and their relationship isn’t rushed and you definitely get plenty of development for it to work and not feel off for the reader and plus we have some adorable kids that just added a lightness to the story that offered balance.
Summary
Regan Penhaligo, is on the run after having to avoid a stalker and almost rapist who has formed a weird obsession with her. She has avoided her sister long enough, and she travels to Scotland to find her and repair the damage that she has caused to their relationship. When she arrives in Scotland, she gets a less than warm welcome, which she knows that she deserves. But then she meets Thane, her future brother-in-law’s brother who is a widow with two young children and is on the hunt for a nanny. Regan spent years as a nanny and she connects with the children just perfectly and she begins her new job as the many to Thane’s children. Regan and Thane begin a journey together, that will benefit the children. But as they spend more time together, there is more than slowly grows between Regan and Thane, something they both try to avoid to maintain a professional relationship, but they know what is between them is special and not one to be taken lightly. Even though they know their families will frown down on a relationship between them, they build in secret even knowing how forbidden it is, but as they build a trust between them, their pasts will come to haunt them, and will they be able to survive the coming tide of danger and drama that is heading their way and will their love be strong enough or will it break under the pressure?
What I Loved
There were so many elements I really loved about this book. The first is the humor, the way that the heroine gets dropped into Scotland and can’t understand the heavy accents (which I found hilarious she didn’t even know the meaning of “ken”), and then we have the light nature of joy that the two children really bring to the story was so precious, (And YES I love kids in romance especially when they are written well and doesn’t take away from the romance), then we have the beautiful scenery and culture of Scotland that is so beautifully captured. Its not surprise as the author is originally from Scotland. Then we have the forbidden romance between Thane and Regan which I LOVED this. I love a forbidden love, and knowing that their relationship was heading into something more just really worked. It didn’t feel iffy or weird or wrong at all, because you see how much they fight to maintain that professionalism but that what they have towards each other is mutual and they make sure the kids come first and are the priority and I really liked seeing that. They definitely have some hills of struggle to work through as trying to work through the forbidden aspects of their relationships isn’t easy at all and they both have struggles they need to overcome. I really felt like the suspense element wasn’t as strong as I was expecting it to be but when it does build into the story and happen, it definitely had me on edge. This story had me in my feels and I just couldn’t put it down and as it’s a 12-hour audiobook and I listened to it in ONE day should tell you how much I was hooked on this one.
What I Struggled With
There was only one issue I really had with this story that kept it from a full five-star which is the element of the hero and the way in which he pushes away Regan. Her mother is a piece of work and Thane really is cruel pushing her away toward the end of the story I really didn’t like how he let her mother have him push Regan out of his life and his children’s life so completely without thinking it through and letting the shame override what he knew in his heart.
The Narration
The narrator for this book and this series has been doing such a tremendous job in capturing the perfect feel of the book and portraying it so well to the reader. She also has such a beautiful voice and really handles the accents very well and she is just right in capturing the right personalities for the characters.
Overall View
There With You is a majestic contemporary romance with a hint of suspense in the beautiful lands of Scotland that captures the beauty and essence of the land and culture, builds a beautiful emotional forbidden love, and a story bound to keep you all over your emotions and leave you satisfied in the end!
This review may contain spoilers, so fair warning, upon reading the review.
First Impressions
There With You is the second book in the Adair Family series and after loving the first book I was more than ready to get this book read and I am so happy that I finally picked it up. I had some reservations concerning this heroine, as I didn’t receive the best impression of her in the first book. But from the first chapter, I knew that this book would work for me and yeah I was right on that because this book was everything that I could have hoped for and more.. I don’t know what it is about this series that just works for me, but they are becoming some of my favorites of this authors work and she has some great past work I have loved dearly. I really was intrigued by the heroine though, and she definitely isn’t a character you expect and she has more depth and layers to her personality than you would expect. This is a boss/employee relationship and it definitely worked for me, I felt like it was written really well and their relationship isn’t rushed and you definitely get plenty of development for it to work and not feel off for the reader and plus we have some adorable kids that just added a lightness to the story that offered balance.
Summary
Regan Penhaligo, is on the run after having to avoid a stalker and almost rapist who has formed a weird obsession with her. She has avoided her sister long enough, and she travels to Scotland to find her and repair the damage that she has caused to their relationship. When she arrives in Scotland, she gets a less than warm welcome, which she knows that she deserves. But then she meets Thane, her future brother-in-law’s brother who is a widow with two young children and is on the hunt for a nanny. Regan spent years as a nanny and she connects with the children just perfectly and she begins her new job as the many to Thane’s children. Regan and Thane begin a journey together, that will benefit the children. But as they spend more time together, there is more than slowly grows between Regan and Thane, something they both try to avoid to maintain a professional relationship, but they know what is between them is special and not one to be taken lightly. Even though they know their families will frown down on a relationship between them, they build in secret even knowing how forbidden it is, but as they build a trust between them, their pasts will come to haunt them, and will they be able to survive the coming tide of danger and drama that is heading their way and will their love be strong enough or will it break under the pressure?
What I Loved
There were so many elements I really loved about this book. The first is the humor, the way that the heroine gets dropped into Scotland and can’t understand the heavy accents (which I found hilarious she didn’t even know the meaning of “ken”), and then we have the light nature of joy that the two children really bring to the story was so precious, (And YES I love kids in romance especially when they are written well and doesn’t take away from the romance), then we have the beautiful scenery and culture of Scotland that is so beautifully captured. Its not surprise as the author is originally from Scotland. Then we have the forbidden romance between Thane and Regan which I LOVED this. I love a forbidden love, and knowing that their relationship was heading into something more just really worked. It didn’t feel iffy or weird or wrong at all, because you see how much they fight to maintain that professionalism but that what they have towards each other is mutual and they make sure the kids come first and are the priority and I really liked seeing that. They definitely have some hills of struggle to work through as trying to work through the forbidden aspects of their relationships isn’t easy at all and they both have struggles they need to overcome. I really felt like the suspense element wasn’t as strong as I was expecting it to be but when it does build into the story and happen, it definitely had me on edge. This story had me in my feels and I just couldn’t put it down and as it’s a 12-hour audiobook and I listened to it in ONE day should tell you how much I was hooked on this one.
What I Struggled With
There was only one issue I really had with this story that kept it from a full five-star which is the element of the hero and the way in which he pushes away Regan. Her mother is a piece of work and Thane really is cruel pushing her away toward the end of the story I really didn’t like how he let her mother have him push Regan out of his life and his children’s life so completely without thinking it through and letting the shame override what he knew in his heart.
The Narration
The narrator for this book and this series has been doing such a tremendous job in capturing the perfect feel of the book and portraying it so well to the reader. She also has such a beautiful voice and really handles the accents very well and she is just right in capturing the right personalities for the characters.
Overall View
There With You is a majestic contemporary romance with a hint of suspense in the beautiful lands of Scotland that captures the beauty and essence of the land and culture, builds a beautiful emotional forbidden love, and a story bound to keep you all over your emotions and leave you satisfied in the end!
This review was originally posted on Addicted To Romance
This review may contain spoilers, so fair warning, upon reading the review.
I wish that I could say that I loved this book but unfortunately, this book was not that great and I had so many high expectations. I had thought that one would be a kick-ass read but unfortunately, it was so lackluster and didn’t have the normal pizazz that I have come to expect from this author. I will be honest and say that the heroine In this book is completely batty. Like I thought she would be a good one at first, but the more she got involved in the world with Kaysar, the more unhinged and crazy she became and I just couldn’t relate with her because she was all over the place and there was no sense of consistency with her at all. Her character just didn’t make that much sense to me and she ruined the story for me. It might have been a solid four-star if the heroine was a bit more stable. And yeah I guess I can see why the author decided to write her like this but when the hero who is kinda crazy becomes the sane one at the end, it really showcases the heroine, and it’s not favorable. I am completely understanding why there are so many mixed reviews of this one on Goodreads, because while a review I trusted, just about everyone else just didn’t care for it. I have come to really respect this author’s writing, but this is the biggest disappointment that I have read from her so far and to be honest, it just makes me sad because I bought this in print expecting to love it that much but yeah I regret that now (and this is why I normally will wait and read the digital copy before buying physical books). This isn’t an awful read or anything. The plot is solid, the world-building is superb and I thought the hero was crazy but badass, I really enjoyed the fantastical world that we see. I would call this a fantasy romance with a mix of mythological fantasy (as it has a world similar to what you would see in video games and didn’t have an epic fantasy feel to me) and the plot was pretty solid but I will be honest the heroine is not going to make the story better at least for me. I am sure it will work for some, but I would read reviews before reading this one to see if these aspects will work for you or not.
Trigger Warnings:
This review may contain spoilers, so fair warning, upon reading the review.
I wish that I could say that I loved this book but unfortunately, this book was not that great and I had so many high expectations. I had thought that one would be a kick-ass read but unfortunately, it was so lackluster and didn’t have the normal pizazz that I have come to expect from this author. I will be honest and say that the heroine In this book is completely batty. Like I thought she would be a good one at first, but the more she got involved in the world with Kaysar, the more unhinged and crazy she became and I just couldn’t relate with her because she was all over the place and there was no sense of consistency with her at all. Her character just didn’t make that much sense to me and she ruined the story for me. It might have been a solid four-star if the heroine was a bit more stable. And yeah I guess I can see why the author decided to write her like this but when the hero who is kinda crazy becomes the sane one at the end, it really showcases the heroine, and it’s not favorable. I am completely understanding why there are so many mixed reviews of this one on Goodreads, because while a review I trusted, just about everyone else just didn’t care for it. I have come to really respect this author’s writing, but this is the biggest disappointment that I have read from her so far and to be honest, it just makes me sad because I bought this in print expecting to love it that much but yeah I regret that now (and this is why I normally will wait and read the digital copy before buying physical books). This isn’t an awful read or anything. The plot is solid, the world-building is superb and I thought the hero was crazy but badass, I really enjoyed the fantastical world that we see. I would call this a fantasy romance with a mix of mythological fantasy (as it has a world similar to what you would see in video games and didn’t have an epic fantasy feel to me) and the plot was pretty solid but I will be honest the heroine is not going to make the story better at least for me. I am sure it will work for some, but I would read reviews before reading this one to see if these aspects will work for you or not.
Trigger Warnings:
This review was originally posted on Addicted To Romance
This review may contain spoilers, so fair warning, upon reading the review.
Ivan is the first book in the Underworld series and is the next book that I felt I need to read to work my way to the BIG series by this author. For those of you that don’t know, this is an author where you have to read her books in order and some of her best books are her most current series she is finishing up. So Ivan is part of that journey and I had such high expectations of this one here. I am not going to lie, EVERYONE seems to rave about this book and so I was highly nervous to read it because I didn’t want to be so disappointed and I can definitely see why so many readers have a deep love for this book. This couple are a powerhouse together and they are sweet perfection and I wish that I could have five starred this book but unfortunately I am not able to, I did have some issues with this book that kept it was a full five star read for me. But I will say that it was an amazing book and that I really really enjoyed the hell out of it. The basics of this story is that our heroine is a professional assassin, and she is hired to do a hit on our hero Ivan, who is the head of the Mafia family he is the head of. But our heroine gets captured and they begin this sensual dance with each other and soon love enters the picture, and they become partners in bringing down their enemy and I absolutely adored this one. But my issue with this book is that it was too SHORT!! This book needed at least 300-400 pages of length in my opinion. It had so much potential and could have had so much more depth and I felt like the couple deserved more page time and they just didn’t get it. I just felt like the relationship went from hating each other, then allies and we like each other and now we love each other and it felt so fast in those transitions and there could have been more focus on building their relationship and it just felt like it needed more. I mean I read this 200 page book in less than an hour, it was a fast read but I just wished for more relationship development to add more intimacy and layers that I felt it needed. But overall a very solid read that I really enjoyed.
Trigger Warnings:
Violence, Death
This review may contain spoilers, so fair warning, upon reading the review.
Ivan is the first book in the Underworld series and is the next book that I felt I need to read to work my way to the BIG series by this author. For those of you that don’t know, this is an author where you have to read her books in order and some of her best books are her most current series she is finishing up. So Ivan is part of that journey and I had such high expectations of this one here. I am not going to lie, EVERYONE seems to rave about this book and so I was highly nervous to read it because I didn’t want to be so disappointed and I can definitely see why so many readers have a deep love for this book. This couple are a powerhouse together and they are sweet perfection and I wish that I could have five starred this book but unfortunately I am not able to, I did have some issues with this book that kept it was a full five star read for me. But I will say that it was an amazing book and that I really really enjoyed the hell out of it. The basics of this story is that our heroine is a professional assassin, and she is hired to do a hit on our hero Ivan, who is the head of the Mafia family he is the head of. But our heroine gets captured and they begin this sensual dance with each other and soon love enters the picture, and they become partners in bringing down their enemy and I absolutely adored this one. But my issue with this book is that it was too SHORT!! This book needed at least 300-400 pages of length in my opinion. It had so much potential and could have had so much more depth and I felt like the couple deserved more page time and they just didn’t get it. I just felt like the relationship went from hating each other, then allies and we like each other and now we love each other and it felt so fast in those transitions and there could have been more focus on building their relationship and it just felt like it needed more. I mean I read this 200 page book in less than an hour, it was a fast read but I just wished for more relationship development to add more intimacy and layers that I felt it needed. But overall a very solid read that I really enjoyed.
Trigger Warnings:
Violence, Death
This review was originally posted on Addicted To Romance
This review may contain spoilers, so fair warning, upon reading the review.
Forged In Fire is the first book in the Vessel trilogy and was just published this past week and is also the rerelease of this book that this author is putting out. Even though I like the older covers (but these books haven’t been accessible in other formats other than physical) so I think the author wanted to get them in ebook format but also I believe this trilogy being republished is also longer in length so she probably has added content to it which is really neat. I have so much respect for this author and even though I haven’t had the chance to read too much of her work, I have adored each and every book I have read from her so far. I was pulled right into the story here and it was a wild ride of paranormal fun. It is a very unique type of setting, I would say this is a paranormal new adult and so fantastically written. You just get drawn into the characters so well and I related so well with the heroine. She has a core of steel but has such a kind personality as well. She will stand by those that she loves deeply and I love how she is so open about her love for Jude. She just accepts what she feels for him, and there isn’t unnecessary drama in this book which I respect so much. The heroine gets thrown in a crazy life, when she learns of who she is and that she will be hunted by demonkind. But Jude becomes her protector and teacher in this new life. And the chemistry was off the charts, but there is also such a vibrant emotional attachment to their connection that just had the story be packed with so much depth here. I was so curious about this connection and see how its built in the rest of the trilogy and no pair cliffhanger which I enjoyed. I was really worried about that but it ended with an HFN, I am nervous about book two because please no love triangle but we shall see what Juliette Cross implements there. I really can’t wait to see the growth and journey that Genevieve will go on here. If you are looking for a unique paranormal romance trilogy that features one epic journey with one pairing, you definitely need to grab this one up. No worries book 2 is releasing this Monday and book 3 releases on the 14th of this month. It’s a perfect treat for Valentine’s Day and will knock your socks off.
Overall I found Forged In Fire to be an enthralling, dynamic love affair that sets your spirit on fire with core feminine strength, a fierce protector, and a romance to deliver in all the feels that captures the essence of the beauty of love ….
This review may contain spoilers, so fair warning, upon reading the review.
Forged In Fire is the first book in the Vessel trilogy and was just published this past week and is also the rerelease of this book that this author is putting out. Even though I like the older covers (but these books haven’t been accessible in other formats other than physical) so I think the author wanted to get them in ebook format but also I believe this trilogy being republished is also longer in length so she probably has added content to it which is really neat. I have so much respect for this author and even though I haven’t had the chance to read too much of her work, I have adored each and every book I have read from her so far. I was pulled right into the story here and it was a wild ride of paranormal fun. It is a very unique type of setting, I would say this is a paranormal new adult and so fantastically written. You just get drawn into the characters so well and I related so well with the heroine. She has a core of steel but has such a kind personality as well. She will stand by those that she loves deeply and I love how she is so open about her love for Jude. She just accepts what she feels for him, and there isn’t unnecessary drama in this book which I respect so much. The heroine gets thrown in a crazy life, when she learns of who she is and that she will be hunted by demonkind. But Jude becomes her protector and teacher in this new life. And the chemistry was off the charts, but there is also such a vibrant emotional attachment to their connection that just had the story be packed with so much depth here. I was so curious about this connection and see how its built in the rest of the trilogy and no pair cliffhanger which I enjoyed. I was really worried about that but it ended with an HFN, I am nervous about book two because please no love triangle but we shall see what Juliette Cross implements there. I really can’t wait to see the growth and journey that Genevieve will go on here. If you are looking for a unique paranormal romance trilogy that features one epic journey with one pairing, you definitely need to grab this one up. No worries book 2 is releasing this Monday and book 3 releases on the 14th of this month. It’s a perfect treat for Valentine’s Day and will knock your socks off.
Overall I found Forged In Fire to be an enthralling, dynamic love affair that sets your spirit on fire with core feminine strength, a fierce protector, and a romance to deliver in all the feels that captures the essence of the beauty of love ….
This review was originally posted on Addicted To Romance
This review may contain spoilers, so fair warning, upon reading the review.
First Impressions
Once a Rake was a high impulse read and I had no clue what I was missing out on until I read this one. I actually was pointed towards this story when a friend on Goodreads pointed it was only .99 cents on Amazon (and it might still be that price so I would check it out) and I started to read the sample and I was completely drawn into the story and I couldn’t put it down, so I immediately bought the book and started reading it and I was so captivated by this story. Instantly you are drawn into the story and there is such a sense of intensity to the story and there was this spark of life that is present throughout the whole story and I have to say it has been so LONG since a regency romance was such a win for me. So many regencies of late have been —-and I hate to say it this way but BORING and generic and nothing exciting but in this standalone, I was on the edge of my seat brimming with excitement and I realized THIS is what I have been missing in historicals and why I have become so burnt out and I definitely will be picking up more historicals released around this time frame because apparently that have the content that I am looking for.
Summary
Isabel Aubrey has been Earl of Ashby since she was a teenager, he was her brother’s best friend and fought with her brother in Waterloo, but now he has been back and even though her brother didn’t survive, Ashby did even though he has scars and hides himself like a recluse in his home, but what Isabel doesn’t realize is that Ashby has also been in love with her for years and suffers shame from the time in the war and can’t bring himself to face her. Isobel is a bluestocking and always out helping those less fortunate. But her current endeavor is to help those widows and families suffering from the effects of the war. And she is working on getting legislation passed through the House of Lords and she needs the influence that Ashby would have with his position has in society. At first, Ashby is determined to not help Isobel, but her sweet charming nature slowly warms his heart and makes him believe that they could have a future together. A deep passion will rise between them but the past and Ashbys self doubt could ruin the bond of trust and affection that they are building with each other and he will have to work his heart and body into winning his lady’s heart and prove his love to her…
What I Loved
Once A Rake was such a brilliant standalone that quickly won my heart and I absolutely adored the way that this story developed. This does have a beauty and beast retelling of sorts and I really loved how this book kept me on my toes. I honestly never knew where this story would turn and I am realizing how predictable my historical’s have been in recent years, because there was such a flair of drama that was so well balanced, we see true honest emotions come to light and inner demons that Ashby will have to battle. The growth of their relationship was magnificent and I really enjoyed the chemistry because yeah it was steamier than I would have expected from a historical published in 2007. I was really fascinated with the time period too, as we are dealing with the Napaleonic war. We see such character growth in our main leads here but most especially our hero. He goes on such a journey because we do see a few flashbacks of him before the war where he was so energetic, full of laughter, and had such a fresh view of the world. Then we see what the war did to him and what he was forced to do especially as it pertains to Isabel’s brother and my heart just broke for him and then to see him as a broken man who with the help of Isabel who has such solid faith in him, to rebuild his life and learn to go out into society despite his scars. Then we see the beautiful changes in him just like we see in Beast from the fairytale and it was so life-changing seeing this growth throughout the whole story. As for the romance, these two definitely have their struggles and most of it stems from Ashby’s lack of faith in himself and i do like that Isabel was so understanding about it all and was willing to be so open-minded about what he was dealing with, and accepting him as the man he is. I will say don’t pay attention to the blurb because it mentions that Isabel has a fiancee….I don’t know what book they are referring to but she has no fiancee. She has suitors and there is a man that wants her hand but she avoids him like the plague haha so there isn’t any cheating or anything because she isn’t in a relationship with someone else. I think if you are looking for something more a historical then I can’t recommend this one enough to you. You definitely can’t go wrong with a Rona Sharon and she delivers a power-packed romance!!
What I Struggled With
There wasn’t hardly anything I struggled with to be honest, I just loved everything about this one.
Overall View
I found Once A Rake to be unpredictable, leaves you on edge with emotion and satisfying feels, a romance that will take you to new depths and leave you with some surprises along the way, and will addict you from beginning to end! A TRUE HISTORICAL JEWEL THAT IS A MUST-READ!
This review may contain spoilers, so fair warning, upon reading the review.
Love is not love which alters when it alteration finds, or bends with the remover to remove,’” she recited softly. “‘Oh, no; it is an ever-fixed mark, that looks on tempests, and is never shaken.
First Impressions
Once a Rake was a high impulse read and I had no clue what I was missing out on until I read this one. I actually was pointed towards this story when a friend on Goodreads pointed it was only .99 cents on Amazon (and it might still be that price so I would check it out) and I started to read the sample and I was completely drawn into the story and I couldn’t put it down, so I immediately bought the book and started reading it and I was so captivated by this story. Instantly you are drawn into the story and there is such a sense of intensity to the story and there was this spark of life that is present throughout the whole story and I have to say it has been so LONG since a regency romance was such a win for me. So many regencies of late have been —-and I hate to say it this way but BORING and generic and nothing exciting but in this standalone, I was on the edge of my seat brimming with excitement and I realized THIS is what I have been missing in historicals and why I have become so burnt out and I definitely will be picking up more historicals released around this time frame because apparently that have the content that I am looking for.
Becoming friends and lovers at the same time is the best thing that can happen to a man and a woman.
Summary
Isabel Aubrey has been Earl of Ashby since she was a teenager, he was her brother’s best friend and fought with her brother in Waterloo, but now he has been back and even though her brother didn’t survive, Ashby did even though he has scars and hides himself like a recluse in his home, but what Isabel doesn’t realize is that Ashby has also been in love with her for years and suffers shame from the time in the war and can’t bring himself to face her. Isobel is a bluestocking and always out helping those less fortunate. But her current endeavor is to help those widows and families suffering from the effects of the war. And she is working on getting legislation passed through the House of Lords and she needs the influence that Ashby would have with his position has in society. At first, Ashby is determined to not help Isobel, but her sweet charming nature slowly warms his heart and makes him believe that they could have a future together. A deep passion will rise between them but the past and Ashbys self doubt could ruin the bond of trust and affection that they are building with each other and he will have to work his heart and body into winning his lady’s heart and prove his love to her…
Real men cried, quietly, privately, as Paris did, because his heart was crying.
What I Loved
Once A Rake was such a brilliant standalone that quickly won my heart and I absolutely adored the way that this story developed. This does have a beauty and beast retelling of sorts and I really loved how this book kept me on my toes. I honestly never knew where this story would turn and I am realizing how predictable my historical’s have been in recent years, because there was such a flair of drama that was so well balanced, we see true honest emotions come to light and inner demons that Ashby will have to battle. The growth of their relationship was magnificent and I really enjoyed the chemistry because yeah it was steamier than I would have expected from a historical published in 2007. I was really fascinated with the time period too, as we are dealing with the Napaleonic war. We see such character growth in our main leads here but most especially our hero. He goes on such a journey because we do see a few flashbacks of him before the war where he was so energetic, full of laughter, and had such a fresh view of the world. Then we see what the war did to him and what he was forced to do especially as it pertains to Isabel’s brother and my heart just broke for him and then to see him as a broken man who with the help of Isabel who has such solid faith in him, to rebuild his life and learn to go out into society despite his scars. Then we see the beautiful changes in him just like we see in Beast from the fairytale and it was so life-changing seeing this growth throughout the whole story. As for the romance, these two definitely have their struggles and most of it stems from Ashby’s lack of faith in himself and i do like that Isabel was so understanding about it all and was willing to be so open-minded about what he was dealing with, and accepting him as the man he is. I will say don’t pay attention to the blurb because it mentions that Isabel has a fiancee….I don’t know what book they are referring to but she has no fiancee. She has suitors and there is a man that wants her hand but she avoids him like the plague haha so there isn’t any cheating or anything because she isn’t in a relationship with someone else. I think if you are looking for something more a historical then I can’t recommend this one enough to you. You definitely can’t go wrong with a Rona Sharon and she delivers a power-packed romance!!
As their gazes locked in silence, something rare and extraordinary happened between them: She felt his soul, and he felt hers. Their spirits touched. It was a bond forged by their mutual love and grief for her brother, as though Will himself had swept by to unite them and then vanished.
What I Struggled With
There wasn’t hardly anything I struggled with to be honest, I just loved everything about this one.
Overall View
I found Once A Rake to be unpredictable, leaves you on edge with emotion and satisfying feels, a romance that will take you to new depths and leave you with some surprises along the way, and will addict you from beginning to end! A TRUE HISTORICAL JEWEL THAT IS A MUST-READ!
This review was originally posted on Addicted To Romance
This review may contain spoilers, so fair warning, upon reading the review.
First Impressions
Deviant Hacker is the ninth installment of the Mafia Wars series and in this book we have Declan’s story and this is one that I didn’t know too much and to be honest I hadn’t heard too much about but with certain events leading up to it, I had a guess that this one would be a kidnapping set up. Ironically we haven’t had too many of those in this series which in some ways has kinda surprised me. I do like that Maggie Cole has a whole group of tropes and set ups that she has worked with on this series and I never know what she will use from one story to the next. I really liked this one, its not my favorite set up and most of that is due to the kidnapping scenario that is used in the book, it just isn’t my favorite but I did think that the way it was done was quite an interesting dynamic but Maggie Cole definitely made it work in the way that it needed to.
Summary
Declan O’Malley has been on the hunt for the hacker who has put their family at risk at them losing millions and the only reason that they have kept Jack Christan alive as long as they had and now they know that all of their plans could go down the drain if its not handled carefully. When Declan who is a machine on the computer, is able to track down the hacker, he finds the hacker and kidnaps the culprit and takes the hacker to his basement, only shocked to realize its a woman, and not just any woman, a beautiful angel, one that he saw at his family’s pub one night and they had a connection but nothing more happened but now he needs to know why his angel is trying to destroy his family. At first he binds her in a cold cell, and will keep her his captive until she tells him the truth, there is a powerful chemistry between them, and Declan is determined to get her submission but when he finds the truth and realizes his angel intentions, he will have to work back into her good graces and prove that he will always protect her and cherish her….
What I Loved
I really found this one to be quite interesting and I didn’t know what to make of the kidnapping dynamic, it definitely has its darker elements obviously due to the set of circumstances and you can see how there is such a divide between our hero and heroine. My heart just broke for Simona, as you can see that she is an innocent and is an innocent caught in the middle of this war. I found it quite interesting to see this captor/captive situation would last and I wasn’t always a fan of Declan and how he handled the situation with Simona. You can see how torn he is at times, but he is also loyal to his family and you see how divided he is and not just by all the events leading up to this moment, but also that Simona doesn’t fit the profile of someone out to destroy them. She is completely honest in everything that she does. I really found her to be so fresh and spirited but I also understand her reactions and her ways of submitting to Declan and knowing when to fight her battles. I loved the balance of fire and submissive nature she has. Once we get past the captor/captive scenario and where they are working together and rebuilding levels of trust in their relationship , then that is where this book really begins to shine and where the hero becomes redeemable for me because you definitely see how he has to prove himself and allow compromise into the relationship. Even though the first half was a struggle, the later part of the story definitely made up for it.
What I Struggled With
I really struggled with the first half, and I didn’t care for some of the actions that Declan take again Simona at times, and while I understood it, I also saw Simona as being innocent so it was this inner battle in wanting this tension of the set up to be over and for them to work past it. I do think it got dragged out a little bit more than made sense at least for me.
Overall View
I found Deviant Hacker to be a stunning and riveting read that is a great addition to this power-packed series that has easily won my heart! It’s a story that will push your boundaries, have you stretching limits, and opening up to new possibilities.
Trigger Warnings:
This review may contain spoilers, so fair warning, upon reading the review.
“You want me to fight for you? I will. I’m not going to back down about this.”
First Impressions
Deviant Hacker is the ninth installment of the Mafia Wars series and in this book we have Declan’s story and this is one that I didn’t know too much and to be honest I hadn’t heard too much about but with certain events leading up to it, I had a guess that this one would be a kidnapping set up. Ironically we haven’t had too many of those in this series which in some ways has kinda surprised me. I do like that Maggie Cole has a whole group of tropes and set ups that she has worked with on this series and I never know what she will use from one story to the next. I really liked this one, its not my favorite set up and most of that is due to the kidnapping scenario that is used in the book, it just isn’t my favorite but I did think that the way it was done was quite an interesting dynamic but Maggie Cole definitely made it work in the way that it needed to.
Summary
Declan O’Malley has been on the hunt for the hacker who has put their family at risk at them losing millions and the only reason that they have kept Jack Christan alive as long as they had and now they know that all of their plans could go down the drain if its not handled carefully. When Declan who is a machine on the computer, is able to track down the hacker, he finds the hacker and kidnaps the culprit and takes the hacker to his basement, only shocked to realize its a woman, and not just any woman, a beautiful angel, one that he saw at his family’s pub one night and they had a connection but nothing more happened but now he needs to know why his angel is trying to destroy his family. At first he binds her in a cold cell, and will keep her his captive until she tells him the truth, there is a powerful chemistry between them, and Declan is determined to get her submission but when he finds the truth and realizes his angel intentions, he will have to work back into her good graces and prove that he will always protect her and cherish her….
“I haven’t let you go. You’re here because you insisted you need this right now. Don’t confuse it with the truth. We will be together again, angel.”
What I Loved
I really found this one to be quite interesting and I didn’t know what to make of the kidnapping dynamic, it definitely has its darker elements obviously due to the set of circumstances and you can see how there is such a divide between our hero and heroine. My heart just broke for Simona, as you can see that she is an innocent and is an innocent caught in the middle of this war. I found it quite interesting to see this captor/captive situation would last and I wasn’t always a fan of Declan and how he handled the situation with Simona. You can see how torn he is at times, but he is also loyal to his family and you see how divided he is and not just by all the events leading up to this moment, but also that Simona doesn’t fit the profile of someone out to destroy them. She is completely honest in everything that she does. I really found her to be so fresh and spirited but I also understand her reactions and her ways of submitting to Declan and knowing when to fight her battles. I loved the balance of fire and submissive nature she has. Once we get past the captor/captive scenario and where they are working together and rebuilding levels of trust in their relationship , then that is where this book really begins to shine and where the hero becomes redeemable for me because you definitely see how he has to prove himself and allow compromise into the relationship. Even though the first half was a struggle, the later part of the story definitely made up for it.
What I Struggled With
I really struggled with the first half, and I didn’t care for some of the actions that Declan take again Simona at times, and while I understood it, I also saw Simona as being innocent so it was this inner battle in wanting this tension of the set up to be over and for them to work past it. I do think it got dragged out a little bit more than made sense at least for me.
Overall View
I found Deviant Hacker to be a stunning and riveting read that is a great addition to this power-packed series that has easily won my heart! It’s a story that will push your boundaries, have you stretching limits, and opening up to new possibilities.
“Every ounce of what I feel for you, you feel for me. If you didn’t, you wouldn’t be here. You’re sugar and I’m hot water. We’ve been stirred and shaken. There’s no more you or me. It’s us.”
Trigger Warnings:
Spoiler
Kidnapping, Torture, Violence
This review was originally posted on Addicted To Romance
This review may contain spoilers, so fair warning, upon reading the review.
First Impressions
Relentless Hunter is the last book in the Mafia Wars series and this is one of my most anticipated reads of the series, as I have heard the best things about this book but I knew that it would be a rough read, and yeah it’s not the easiest of these books to read, but it is one of the most satisfying of the series. I was really drawn into the book because this is Finn’s book and I knew his story would be so badass and it definitely was. But I would say pay attention to the triggers in this one because it does contain some difficult content that some will struggle with. I was impressed with how Maggie Cole handled this book and there was such an intensity to this book that really worked out so well for me. From the first page, you know that the author is going to put you through the emotional ringer and she definitely does in this one, but it’s a story that I feel must be told and it had me all in my feels and is definitely worth the journey,
Summary
From the moment that Finn and Brenna, knew that there was something deep and special for them. Brenna and Finn embrace instantly the connection that they have together, and even though Brenna knows that Finn is part of a dangerous family, she always has complete faith in him. She knows he will always protect her no matter the cost. But when Brenna ends in a situation, Finn steps in and is the one caught red-handed and he ends up in prison for 21 years for it. But what hurts him the most, is knowing that Brenna has disappeared and no one can find her and he is stuck in Prison unable to search for her and protect her, he has no idea if she is alive or dead but he is determined to be the King and hone his skills so that when he is free, he can do whatever it takes to find his Firefly, Brenna on her side, was kidnapped and sold as a slave, but when she escaped, she thought she would find a way but now believes that Finn is dead, and then gets recaptured and is stuck in her own prison, not knowing if she will ever have a taste of freedom again. When Finn finds out that Brenna is very much alive, he will do whatever it takes to free her no matter the war that will have to happen.
What I Loved
This book tore my heart in shreds and I am not saying that lightly, my heart just broke for Finn and Brenna and what they both suffer. We get to see them falling in love and how beautiful their connection is, I really loved how Brenna accepts Finn for who he is, and is so understanding of where he is in life and his status with his family. Then we have Finn, who is so protective over Brenna and makes his share of mistakes, but I loved his fierce determination to protect her. We see how their connection doesn’t waver despite their 21-year separation and that they are so together no matter the evils that try to keep them apart, and then we have that beautiful moment when they find each other again, and it was worth all the pain and struggle that they have to face to be together again,. This is definitely one of my top favorite books of the series, there is something so deep and profound about this book that resonates so well with this reader. Maggie Cole definitely shows her true talents in this one here. I wanted so much to have these two together and to find their much-deserved HEA. On the side, we also get to see the truth behind Bridget and seeing what happened to her to cause her to distance herself and the truth of what happened the night Sean was killed. I have a feeling that her story is not even close to being over and very curious to see about the connecting series that Maggie Cole is currently working on.
What I Struggled With
This book is perfection!!!! I wouldn’t change a thing.
Overall View
Relentless Hunter is an intense filled romance that will capture your heart and will have you fighting for this pair as they work their way towards their much-deserved HEA. Its a story of struggle, determination, and conquering evil to embrace the one you love the most!!
Trigger Warnings:
This review may contain spoilers, so fair warning, upon reading the review.
“Firefly?” “Yeah. When I was a kid, I was obsessed with fireflies. I would catch them in jars and watch them glow all night. You remind me of them. You light up the room. So, I could sit and be happy watching you glow all night,” I confess.
First Impressions
Relentless Hunter is the last book in the Mafia Wars series and this is one of my most anticipated reads of the series, as I have heard the best things about this book but I knew that it would be a rough read, and yeah it’s not the easiest of these books to read, but it is one of the most satisfying of the series. I was really drawn into the book because this is Finn’s book and I knew his story would be so badass and it definitely was. But I would say pay attention to the triggers in this one because it does contain some difficult content that some will struggle with. I was impressed with how Maggie Cole handled this book and there was such an intensity to this book that really worked out so well for me. From the first page, you know that the author is going to put you through the emotional ringer and she definitely does in this one, but it’s a story that I feel must be told and it had me all in my feels and is definitely worth the journey,
But that’s the thing about love. You find it in your heart to overlook the things that aren’t perfect because no one is. Everyone has their demons, so you accept them and love them for who they
Summary
From the moment that Finn and Brenna, knew that there was something deep and special for them. Brenna and Finn embrace instantly the connection that they have together, and even though Brenna knows that Finn is part of a dangerous family, she always has complete faith in him. She knows he will always protect her no matter the cost. But when Brenna ends in a situation, Finn steps in and is the one caught red-handed and he ends up in prison for 21 years for it. But what hurts him the most, is knowing that Brenna has disappeared and no one can find her and he is stuck in Prison unable to search for her and protect her, he has no idea if she is alive or dead but he is determined to be the King and hone his skills so that when he is free, he can do whatever it takes to find his Firefly, Brenna on her side, was kidnapped and sold as a slave, but when she escaped, she thought she would find a way but now believes that Finn is dead, and then gets recaptured and is stuck in her own prison, not knowing if she will ever have a taste of freedom again. When Finn finds out that Brenna is very much alive, he will do whatever it takes to free her no matter the war that will have to happen.
She loves me. Every day she shows me. And she looks past all the bullshit of what my family and I bring to the table and still accepts me. She knows all my faults, yet she unconditionally loves me.
What I Loved
This book tore my heart in shreds and I am not saying that lightly, my heart just broke for Finn and Brenna and what they both suffer. We get to see them falling in love and how beautiful their connection is, I really loved how Brenna accepts Finn for who he is, and is so understanding of where he is in life and his status with his family. Then we have Finn, who is so protective over Brenna and makes his share of mistakes, but I loved his fierce determination to protect her. We see how their connection doesn’t waver despite their 21-year separation and that they are so together no matter the evils that try to keep them apart, and then we have that beautiful moment when they find each other again, and it was worth all the pain and struggle that they have to face to be together again,. This is definitely one of my top favorite books of the series, there is something so deep and profound about this book that resonates so well with this reader. Maggie Cole definitely shows her true talents in this one here. I wanted so much to have these two together and to find their much-deserved HEA. On the side, we also get to see the truth behind Bridget and seeing what happened to her to cause her to distance herself and the truth of what happened the night Sean was killed. I have a feeling that her story is not even close to being over and very curious to see about the connecting series that Maggie Cole is currently working on.
So I make a decision. No matter what, I won’t waver again. I’ll lead her through the maze until we get to the end, and anytime she doubts her worth or my love for her, I’ll show her.
What I Struggled With
This book is perfection!!!! I wouldn’t change a thing.
Overall View
Relentless Hunter is an intense filled romance that will capture your heart and will have you fighting for this pair as they work their way towards their much-deserved HEA. Its a story of struggle, determination, and conquering evil to embrace the one you love the most!!
“Whatever happens, I’m walking out that door with you. Always. Forever.”
Trigger Warnings:
Spoiler
Violence, Sexual Assault, Abuse
This review was originally posted on Addicted To Romance
This review may contain spoilers, so fair warning, upon reading the review.
First Impressions
On Her Master’s Secret Service is the fourth installment in her “Masters and Mercenaries” series and it was such fun to get back to this series again and I definitely have been enjoying reading more BDSM lately, the more I read it in a romance, the more I tend to enjoy it, there is such a stronger sense of intimacy and trust that really works for me. Plus it’s Lexi Blake, so she definitely knows how to write her steam. This series is a plus because it’s also a romantic suspense series and I really like how they blend the BDSM culture in with the romantic suspense and having law enforcement backgrounds into the story. And this is such a big series, so I have been wanting to really read more books in the series. When this title finally became available at my local library, I immediately jumped right into it and I really enjoyed the setup of a marriage in trouble and seeing our couple work through their issues while being on an undercover mission.
Summary
Eve and Alex were a married couple that had everything at their feet with all the hopes for the future and getting ready to build a family, they were the FBI couple everyone admired and wanted to emulate. But when an enemy of theirs, kidnapped and raped Eve, their marriage took a nosedive as they both made drastic mistakes and didn’t face up to what was causing them to be torn apart and not face up to the distance that they created, when they should have been more united than ever. Eve and Alex are now divorced but still have a dom/subcontract in place, but its a contract both of them want to change for different reasons. When there comes a mission, Alex forbids Eve to take a part in it, as it would involve having her face the same man that kidnapped her and the man that Alex has never stopped hunting. But Eve is determined to be the one that will pose as his sub, she knows she is capable and she needs to do this. When it becomes obvious, that she wants to split their relationship, Alex knows he needs to fight for the woman he has never stopped loving. But as their scenes turn into something deeper, they find a reconnection and a second chance to rebuild their relationship.
What I Loved
This was such a fun book but intense at times too, I do love the flair of writing that this author uses in her books though. I really enjoyed Alex and Eve as a pair together and I have such a soft spot for a marriage in trouble and it was so interesting to see them work through their issues and see what they were capable of. It was also interesting to have the suspense element be thrown into the mix. You definitely see how they need to learn to communicate better and rebuild their trust and this aspect is so heavily focused on. I really was intrigued about the undercover operation that they were both under and how it was key in them relearning each other again and having to be so open with each other. The BDSM elements were done so well and balanced with the other build-up of the plot that was escalating. I really really liked seeing the group of other characters that I have enjoyed in other books and getting some new additions as well. What was a major plus to this story was the added need for trust and communication and see our pair work through their past and issues and find a new future together….
What I Struggled With
There wasn’t anything I could specifically focus on that was a major issue, these books aren’t ever a five-star read for me, they are entertaining and fun with some layers.
Overall View
I found “On Her Masters Secret Service” to be a delectable read, that focuses on the kink of the BDSM culture, the importance of trust and love, and overcoming an evil force …..together. It’s a brilliantly written romance that I found highly entertaining.
This review may contain spoilers, so fair warning, upon reading the review.
First Impressions
On Her Master’s Secret Service is the fourth installment in her “Masters and Mercenaries” series and it was such fun to get back to this series again and I definitely have been enjoying reading more BDSM lately, the more I read it in a romance, the more I tend to enjoy it, there is such a stronger sense of intimacy and trust that really works for me. Plus it’s Lexi Blake, so she definitely knows how to write her steam. This series is a plus because it’s also a romantic suspense series and I really like how they blend the BDSM culture in with the romantic suspense and having law enforcement backgrounds into the story. And this is such a big series, so I have been wanting to really read more books in the series. When this title finally became available at my local library, I immediately jumped right into it and I really enjoyed the setup of a marriage in trouble and seeing our couple work through their issues while being on an undercover mission.
Family, he’d discovered, was in the people a man collected along the way, the people who shared his life, like his precious wife.
Summary
Eve and Alex were a married couple that had everything at their feet with all the hopes for the future and getting ready to build a family, they were the FBI couple everyone admired and wanted to emulate. But when an enemy of theirs, kidnapped and raped Eve, their marriage took a nosedive as they both made drastic mistakes and didn’t face up to what was causing them to be torn apart and not face up to the distance that they created, when they should have been more united than ever. Eve and Alex are now divorced but still have a dom/subcontract in place, but its a contract both of them want to change for different reasons. When there comes a mission, Alex forbids Eve to take a part in it, as it would involve having her face the same man that kidnapped her and the man that Alex has never stopped hunting. But Eve is determined to be the one that will pose as his sub, she knows she is capable and she needs to do this. When it becomes obvious, that she wants to split their relationship, Alex knows he needs to fight for the woman he has never stopped loving. But as their scenes turn into something deeper, they find a reconnection and a second chance to rebuild their relationship.
“This is how my slave is to greet her Master. It reminds her always of her position. She is to serve me.” To love me. To give me a reason to live. To honor me with her trust.
What I Loved
This was such a fun book but intense at times too, I do love the flair of writing that this author uses in her books though. I really enjoyed Alex and Eve as a pair together and I have such a soft spot for a marriage in trouble and it was so interesting to see them work through their issues and see what they were capable of. It was also interesting to have the suspense element be thrown into the mix. You definitely see how they need to learn to communicate better and rebuild their trust and this aspect is so heavily focused on. I really was intrigued about the undercover operation that they were both under and how it was key in them relearning each other again and having to be so open with each other. The BDSM elements were done so well and balanced with the other build-up of the plot that was escalating. I really really liked seeing the group of other characters that I have enjoyed in other books and getting some new additions as well. What was a major plus to this story was the added need for trust and communication and see our pair work through their past and issues and find a new future together….
Love—real love—required courage. It required her to speak out. It required her to fight for it.
What I Struggled With
There wasn’t anything I could specifically focus on that was a major issue, these books aren’t ever a five-star read for me, they are entertaining and fun with some layers.
Overall View
I found “On Her Masters Secret Service” to be a delectable read, that focuses on the kink of the BDSM culture, the importance of trust and love, and overcoming an evil force …..together. It’s a brilliantly written romance that I found highly entertaining.
At the end of everything—there was only love. And it was worth fighting for.
This review was originally posted on Addicted To Romance
This review may contain spoilers, so fair warning, upon reading the review.
First Impressions
That Secret Crush is the third book in the Getting Lucky series and this is Reids book and I was so curious to see what we would get with Reid’s book. He is the jokester of the family so I just knew that I would be in for an entertaining time and I was definitely correct on that score. I also knew that this was an unrequited love mixed with a hint of forbidden and a best friend sibling trope so it basically has all my favorite tropes all in one book and plus I love this coastal small town and the great humor that only Meghan Quinn can write, I was super stoked about this book. And yeah I absolutely adored this book here, it was everything I could have wanted and more, and even though there were some slight issues I had with the second half of the story, this book was a pure delight, had sweet deep layers, and a delectable facet of charm and wit guaranteed to lighten the load of any reader
Summary
Reid and Eve have been friends for years, and both have them have been attracted to each other but have never acted on those feelings, much of it has to do with the fact that Reid and Eric )Eve’s twin brother) were inseparable and best of friends for years until their endeavor to start their own business crashed on them and both of them are stuck in a rut that they can’t seem to get out of. Then through a course of events, the attraction that Reid and Eve feel for each other is finally acted on and they realize what they feel for each other and before they know it they are in a relationship and finding something beautiful that they didn’t expect. We see a whole different side to Reid that you don’t expect, a sweet tender side that is something different with Eve. There is plenty of humor and playfulness in their relationship, but it’s packed with facets. But when Eric returns home to build a restaurant with Reid, he will force Reid to make a painful decision and Will Reid lose Eve through a course of mistakes of not being willing to fight for her as she deserves?
What I Loved
There was so much about this book that I absolutely loved. From the first chapter, I was entertained and I couldn’t put this one down. There is something so charming about Meghan Quinn’s writing and I absolutely adored the chemistry that is between Reid and Eve. They have a foundation of friendship between them, but when circumstances change between them, there is this sweet depth to their connection that they build on, and it’s absolutely adorable. I was all in with their relationship and the first half of the book especially was delightful. I was really interested to see what would happen in the third act though, as I was charmed by their relationship and loved to see where they were going with it. The sense of family connection was utterly delightful and I these “Text” conversations that the siblings have with each other was so fun to read and had me laughing all over the place. I am really curious about Brig and want to read his book so badly and see how the romantic will fall.
What I Struggled With
I wanted to give this book a five star, but what happens in the third act really rubbed me the wrong way. I really didn’t care for how Reid just caved to Eric’s demand to break up with his sister, and that he wasn’t honest about that with Eve but my biggest issue is how long this got dragged out. If it had been a shorter period of time, then it probably would have worked better for me, but I struggled with seeing this angst between Reid and Eve that was extended for so long. And while eventually Reid does get there and does what he needs to do, it did ruin my enjoyment of the story overall and thus effects my rating here.
Overall View
I found That Secret Crush to be a delectable read that is guaranteed to charm off your socks! It’s a witty, endearing, and charmingly intimate romance that will have you in your laughs and will bring you in tears in moments you least expect…..a fabulous coastal gem!!!
This review may contain spoilers, so fair warning, upon reading the review.
First Impressions
That Secret Crush is the third book in the Getting Lucky series and this is Reids book and I was so curious to see what we would get with Reid’s book. He is the jokester of the family so I just knew that I would be in for an entertaining time and I was definitely correct on that score. I also knew that this was an unrequited love mixed with a hint of forbidden and a best friend sibling trope so it basically has all my favorite tropes all in one book and plus I love this coastal small town and the great humor that only Meghan Quinn can write, I was super stoked about this book. And yeah I absolutely adored this book here, it was everything I could have wanted and more, and even though there were some slight issues I had with the second half of the story, this book was a pure delight, had sweet deep layers, and a delectable facet of charm and wit guaranteed to lighten the load of any reader
Big dick and likes to cuddle. Wow, Knightly, you should have been advertising that a long time ago.
Summary
Reid and Eve have been friends for years, and both have them have been attracted to each other but have never acted on those feelings, much of it has to do with the fact that Reid and Eric )Eve’s twin brother) were inseparable and best of friends for years until their endeavor to start their own business crashed on them and both of them are stuck in a rut that they can’t seem to get out of. Then through a course of events, the attraction that Reid and Eve feel for each other is finally acted on and they realize what they feel for each other and before they know it they are in a relationship and finding something beautiful that they didn’t expect. We see a whole different side to Reid that you don’t expect, a sweet tender side that is something different with Eve. There is plenty of humor and playfulness in their relationship, but it’s packed with facets. But when Eric returns home to build a restaurant with Reid, he will force Reid to make a painful decision and Will Reid lose Eve through a course of mistakes of not being willing to fight for her as she deserves?
Last night meant more to me than just fucking my friend—it meant connecting with someone in a way I never have before. You made me feel shit, Eve, and I don’t let myself have feelings. But it felt good. Fuck, it felt so damn good. It’s why I want to sink myself inside of you all over again, because I want that feeling of euphoria to take over me, that feeling of comfort, of belonging. This isn’t just about fucking, at least not for me. This is about starting something new.
What I Loved
There was so much about this book that I absolutely loved. From the first chapter, I was entertained and I couldn’t put this one down. There is something so charming about Meghan Quinn’s writing and I absolutely adored the chemistry that is between Reid and Eve. They have a foundation of friendship between them, but when circumstances change between them, there is this sweet depth to their connection that they build on, and it’s absolutely adorable. I was all in with their relationship and the first half of the book especially was delightful. I was really interested to see what would happen in the third act though, as I was charmed by their relationship and loved to see where they were going with it. The sense of family connection was utterly delightful and I these “Text” conversations that the siblings have with each other was so fun to read and had me laughing all over the place. I am really curious about Brig and want to read his book so badly and see how the romantic will fall.
Maybe it’s time to grow up and accept what this love really is: a combination of ugly and beautiful moments mixing together to create an everlasting bond.
What I Struggled With
I wanted to give this book a five star, but what happens in the third act really rubbed me the wrong way. I really didn’t care for how Reid just caved to Eric’s demand to break up with his sister, and that he wasn’t honest about that with Eve but my biggest issue is how long this got dragged out. If it had been a shorter period of time, then it probably would have worked better for me, but I struggled with seeing this angst between Reid and Eve that was extended for so long. And while eventually Reid does get there and does what he needs to do, it did ruin my enjoyment of the story overall and thus effects my rating here.
Overall View
I found That Secret Crush to be a delectable read that is guaranteed to charm off your socks! It’s a witty, endearing, and charmingly intimate romance that will have you in your laughs and will bring you in tears in moments you least expect…..a fabulous coastal gem!!!
Love is never easy. Love is a foundation of challenges that stem from two souls colliding as one. There will be miscommunications and moments where we hurt each other, because we are human after all, but what truly matters is the realization that the person standing in front of you is the one person who makes you the best version of yourself.
First Impressions
Overlord is the first book of the current series by Anna Hackett and I actually think this is my first sci-fi from this author. It’s possible I have read some of her older sci-fi but I will be honest many of her past covers and sign even this one, just scream indie sci-fi romance (LOL) But I am starting to get past the look of a certain style of indie covers and I am so happy that I did because this book was so delightful. So many good elements that brought together such a solid story and I can’t wait for book two which actually releases tomorrow. So I might read that conclusion later this week because I enjoyed this one so much. What drew me to this book was I was in a mood for some sci-fi romance and I have really REALLY neglected this sub-genre of late and I have been wanting to explore it much more. And it was a powerhouse of a read that I had such a fun time with.
The Summary
Pilot Mallory West has served in the military for quite a while, and she loves the life that she lives even if it can be lonely at times. She is called up to be a pilot on an experimenting spaceship, and the plan with her co-pilot is to just travel to Jupiter and back but things don’t always go as planned and that is definitely the case here. Before Mallory realizes it, she is crash landing on a distant planet on the other side of the galaxy and she loses her co-pilot in the crash site, and is having to fight off a dangerous beast, and finds herself captured by the king of the area, whom they refer to as Overlord. Rhain Zhalto Sarkany is determined to protect his people from the machinations of his father and the greatest threat is that of a man that murdered his mother by his father’s wish. when he finds this strange woman, he suspects her of working with his father but finds himself intrigued by this captive who acts nothing like most of the women he knows. She is as beautiful as she is fierce, and soon they are fighting for their lives protecting those they care about the most, and finding justice. But can these two dividing forces find a passionate love amidst the chaos that has chosen to erupt in their lives?
What I Loved
Man on man did I enjoy this book so much. So many fun elements that are included in this story and I couldn’t get enough of seeing what works within this story here. I am so in love with this story and seeing what it brings together. I absolutely adored this book and I just love a fun adventure in a sci-fi romance. And Anna Hackett really wrote such a entertaining story that kept me hooked and you can easily read this one in one sitting. I read it in less than two hours and was a delight in every way. I especially loved our heroine. She is passionate, a fighter, crafty but also has a vulnerable side to her. I loved her fierce spirit in searching for her friend, and the bantering that built between Mallory and Rhain was so delightful. They just work so well together once they get through that sexual tension. They are so well matched and when they join forces, you better watch out. And also there is a bit of magical and mystical elements to this story that I wasn’t expecting. So many intense scenes that just kick ass and I am eager for more for what this author can deliver.
What I Struggled With
There wasn’t really anything specific, I mean it didn’t completely draw me to the point that it could get to a five-star read. I do feel like there could have been a bit more consistency in the pacing of the story. But other than that, it worked very well.
Overall View
Overlord is a thrill, leaves you breathless and at the edge of your seat in this outer space adventure that will keep that heart rate up and keep you excited for more.
Overlord is the first book of the current series by Anna Hackett and I actually think this is my first sci-fi from this author. It’s possible I have read some of her older sci-fi but I will be honest many of her past covers and sign even this one, just scream indie sci-fi romance (LOL) But I am starting to get past the look of a certain style of indie covers and I am so happy that I did because this book was so delightful. So many good elements that brought together such a solid story and I can’t wait for book two which actually releases tomorrow. So I might read that conclusion later this week because I enjoyed this one so much. What drew me to this book was I was in a mood for some sci-fi romance and I have really REALLY neglected this sub-genre of late and I have been wanting to explore it much more. And it was a powerhouse of a read that I had such a fun time with.
The Summary
Pilot Mallory West has served in the military for quite a while, and she loves the life that she lives even if it can be lonely at times. She is called up to be a pilot on an experimenting spaceship, and the plan with her co-pilot is to just travel to Jupiter and back but things don’t always go as planned and that is definitely the case here. Before Mallory realizes it, she is crash landing on a distant planet on the other side of the galaxy and she loses her co-pilot in the crash site, and is having to fight off a dangerous beast, and finds herself captured by the king of the area, whom they refer to as Overlord. Rhain Zhalto Sarkany is determined to protect his people from the machinations of his father and the greatest threat is that of a man that murdered his mother by his father’s wish. when he finds this strange woman, he suspects her of working with his father but finds himself intrigued by this captive who acts nothing like most of the women he knows. She is as beautiful as she is fierce, and soon they are fighting for their lives protecting those they care about the most, and finding justice. But can these two dividing forces find a passionate love amidst the chaos that has chosen to erupt in their lives?
What I Loved
Man on man did I enjoy this book so much. So many fun elements that are included in this story and I couldn’t get enough of seeing what works within this story here. I am so in love with this story and seeing what it brings together. I absolutely adored this book and I just love a fun adventure in a sci-fi romance. And Anna Hackett really wrote such a entertaining story that kept me hooked and you can easily read this one in one sitting. I read it in less than two hours and was a delight in every way. I especially loved our heroine. She is passionate, a fighter, crafty but also has a vulnerable side to her. I loved her fierce spirit in searching for her friend, and the bantering that built between Mallory and Rhain was so delightful. They just work so well together once they get through that sexual tension. They are so well matched and when they join forces, you better watch out. And also there is a bit of magical and mystical elements to this story that I wasn’t expecting. So many intense scenes that just kick ass and I am eager for more for what this author can deliver.
What I Struggled With
There wasn’t really anything specific, I mean it didn’t completely draw me to the point that it could get to a five-star read. I do feel like there could have been a bit more consistency in the pacing of the story. But other than that, it worked very well.
Overall View
Overlord is a thrill, leaves you breathless and at the edge of your seat in this outer space adventure that will keep that heart rate up and keep you excited for more.