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4.61k reviews by:
loverofromance
challenging
emotional
medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
Character
Strong character development:
Complicated
Loveable characters:
No
Diverse cast of characters:
No
Flaws of characters a main focus:
Yes
This book was a real struggle to read. I wanted to love it but it just wasn't for me at all. There was way too much angst, in my opnion, it was overkill. The premise of this book had such promise, I always love a romeo juliet retelling in a romance and so the first half was really wonderfully written. I really enjoyed the way that our couple originally comes together, but the conflict that sets them apart was completely bananas. This is my least favorite book of the series. The second half just killed any enjoyment I could have had with this story. There was so much conflict between this couple and what the heroine does to the hero and his family was nonsense. He was way too forgiving after all the harm and damage she caused to others and while she did some groveling it felt too half hearted. It just felt a bit too much that this couple went through. But the teaser for the next couple has me super excited, so hopefully that one is a much better turn out
adventurous
challenging
emotional
fast-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
A mix
Strong character development:
Yes
Loveable characters:
Yes
Diverse cast of characters:
No
This review may contain spoilers, so fair warning, upon reading the 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
Don't Forget Me Tomorrow is the second installment in the "Time River" series. This is Dakota and Ryder story. After the first book, I was intrigued by both of these character and I was very curious to see how it would be set apart after the first book. This one is completely different from the first book and I really was fascinated in this one. I also can't recommend this one enough to be listened to in audio format. There is a very lyrical theme to this writing style in this series, and doing it in audio really elevates the experience as a whole. Now for the majority of the book I thought that this book would be a five star read, but unfortunately the way the third act was handled turned me off a bit so I did detract half a star for that, however, this book as a whole was brilliantly executed and one of the most compelling romances that I have ever read in my life.
First Line
I stared at her from across the room.
Summary
Ryder and Dakota have been friends since they were children. There has always been an intense connection between them. But when Ryder loses his mother as a teenager, he goes off the deep dark end and Dakota has never stopped loving Ryder even though she knows he doesn't see her that way. But Ryder has his own reasons for staying away romantically from Dakota. He is protective of her, but he is involved in some thing that aren't completely legal and moral and in some ways he is being forced into this work but knows that he isn't worthy of her. But when she is put in danger, he takes her and her son into his home for protection and the yearning they both have build to each other, but will his secrets ruin any chance they have for a future?
What I Loved
There were so many elements to this story that I truly was endeared to. I really was intrigued by the story set up here. And I am not sure if it was the story itself or if it was the audio narration, but I was immediately drawn to these two. We do see flashbacks but they are very short and the power of the storytelling where I didn't mind these flashbacks at all. They were so well fleshed with the story and were just as captivating as the present day storyline. That is rare for me. I have a disliked flashbacks and its not common for an author to write them well. But how A.L. Jackson displayed them within the story was so flawless and she deserves some brownie points for that. The chemistry and build up relationship between Ryder and Dakota was so precious. We see how much they pine for each other and have such honest yearnings for each other. You definitely cheer on both of these characters as you can see how much they love each other but won't open themselves to it. And I really felt for the hero. He makes some mistakes but is also in a hard tough position. So my heart went out to this man who wants so much better for himself but is practically being forced into doing some not so good things here. The plot within the story is very well built. There is mystery and danger and the right touch of intrigue that really brings balance to the story. I so admire an author that can deliver a solid plot to a romance. (and yes romances need plots unless you are writing erotica which isn't romance).
What I Struggled With
There were some aspects that I was not a big fan of and detracted some enjoyment of the story. The first 2/3 of the book were EPIC and this would have been a five-star read if it wasn't for the third act in the plot. So everything gets revealed but it was the reaction of the family and of Dakota that was highly disappointing. Throughout the whole story, Dakota keeps saying how much she accepts Ryder but in all honesty, she doesn't. She treats him pretty horribly and her whole family does including his best friend. And the whole best friend sister didn't have hardly any resolvement and that was highly disappointing. If you are making a point of forbidden love because you are with your brother's best friend, and there is no satisfying ending to that, then the story needs more work in it. And also the ending was very rushed and didn't satisfy me at all. These elements really affected my overall enjoyment of the story. Executing the third act of a story is just as important as the build-up up so I am a bit disappointed in the turnout of this one.
Narration
The narration on this one was brilliantly executed! They handled this story just right and honestly gave it a facelift that had me so captivated and couldn't put the audio down.
Overall View
Don't Forget Me Tomorrow was an enjoyable thrilling romance that delivered some beautiful intimacy and heart and soul emotional connection you can easily connect with on a deep level!
Favorite Quote(s)
“I promise I will take care of you. Protect you.”
“Why?”
“Because protecting you is what I was created to do.”
Book Details (also in my shelves)
Sub Genre: Contemporary Romance, Romantic Suspense
Character Types: Bad Boy, Groveling, Morally Grey Hero, Single Mom
Themes: Small Town, Dual Pining, All the Feels, Tear Jerker
Tropes: Brother's Best Friend
Book Perspective
Duo POV
Relationship Conflict vs Plot Conflict
A mix of both
Song This Book Inspires
Body Electric by Lana Del Rey
Recommendation For Reading Order
You can read as a standalone if needed
Steam/Spice Explanations
Steamin' up the room -the sexual content is more explicit in the language and tone, heavier amount of sexual scenes.
Narrators:
Connor Crais, Samanthan Brentmoor
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
Don't Forget Me Tomorrow is the second installment in the "Time River" series. This is Dakota and Ryder story. After the first book, I was intrigued by both of these character and I was very curious to see how it would be set apart after the first book. This one is completely different from the first book and I really was fascinated in this one. I also can't recommend this one enough to be listened to in audio format. There is a very lyrical theme to this writing style in this series, and doing it in audio really elevates the experience as a whole. Now for the majority of the book I thought that this book would be a five star read, but unfortunately the way the third act was handled turned me off a bit so I did detract half a star for that, however, this book as a whole was brilliantly executed and one of the most compelling romances that I have ever read in my life.
First Line
I stared at her from across the room.
Summary
Ryder and Dakota have been friends since they were children. There has always been an intense connection between them. But when Ryder loses his mother as a teenager, he goes off the deep dark end and Dakota has never stopped loving Ryder even though she knows he doesn't see her that way. But Ryder has his own reasons for staying away romantically from Dakota. He is protective of her, but he is involved in some thing that aren't completely legal and moral and in some ways he is being forced into this work but knows that he isn't worthy of her. But when she is put in danger, he takes her and her son into his home for protection and the yearning they both have build to each other, but will his secrets ruin any chance they have for a future?
What I Loved
There were so many elements to this story that I truly was endeared to. I really was intrigued by the story set up here. And I am not sure if it was the story itself or if it was the audio narration, but I was immediately drawn to these two. We do see flashbacks but they are very short and the power of the storytelling where I didn't mind these flashbacks at all. They were so well fleshed with the story and were just as captivating as the present day storyline. That is rare for me. I have a disliked flashbacks and its not common for an author to write them well. But how A.L. Jackson displayed them within the story was so flawless and she deserves some brownie points for that. The chemistry and build up relationship between Ryder and Dakota was so precious. We see how much they pine for each other and have such honest yearnings for each other. You definitely cheer on both of these characters as you can see how much they love each other but won't open themselves to it. And I really felt for the hero. He makes some mistakes but is also in a hard tough position. So my heart went out to this man who wants so much better for himself but is practically being forced into doing some not so good things here. The plot within the story is very well built. There is mystery and danger and the right touch of intrigue that really brings balance to the story. I so admire an author that can deliver a solid plot to a romance. (and yes romances need plots unless you are writing erotica which isn't romance).
What I Struggled With
There were some aspects that I was not a big fan of and detracted some enjoyment of the story. The first 2/3 of the book were EPIC and this would have been a five-star read if it wasn't for the third act in the plot. So everything gets revealed but it was the reaction of the family and of Dakota that was highly disappointing. Throughout the whole story, Dakota keeps saying how much she accepts Ryder but in all honesty, she doesn't. She treats him pretty horribly and her whole family does including his best friend. And the whole best friend sister didn't have hardly any resolvement and that was highly disappointing. If you are making a point of forbidden love because you are with your brother's best friend, and there is no satisfying ending to that, then the story needs more work in it. And also the ending was very rushed and didn't satisfy me at all. These elements really affected my overall enjoyment of the story. Executing the third act of a story is just as important as the build-up up so I am a bit disappointed in the turnout of this one.
Narration
The narration on this one was brilliantly executed! They handled this story just right and honestly gave it a facelift that had me so captivated and couldn't put the audio down.
Overall View
Don't Forget Me Tomorrow was an enjoyable thrilling romance that delivered some beautiful intimacy and heart and soul emotional connection you can easily connect with on a deep level!
Favorite Quote(s)
“I promise I will take care of you. Protect you.”
“Why?”
“Because protecting you is what I was created to do.”
Book Details (also in my shelves)
Sub Genre: Contemporary Romance, Romantic Suspense
Character Types: Bad Boy, Groveling, Morally Grey Hero, Single Mom
Themes: Small Town, Dual Pining, All the Feels, Tear Jerker
Tropes: Brother's Best Friend
Book Perspective
Duo POV
Relationship Conflict vs Plot Conflict
A mix of both
Song This Book Inspires
Body Electric by Lana Del Rey
Recommendation For Reading Order
You can read as a standalone if needed
Steam/Spice Explanations
Steamin' up the room -the sexual content is more explicit in the language and tone, heavier amount of sexual scenes.
Narrators:
Connor Crais, Samanthan Brentmoor
adventurous
challenging
emotional
medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
A mix
Strong character development:
Yes
Loveable characters:
Yes
Diverse cast of characters:
No
This review may contain spoilers, so fair warning, upon reading the 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
This installment, The Year We Hid Away, is book 2 in the "Ivy Years" series and I absolutely adored this book. It was utterly delightful. While its not a perfect read, it kept me hooked and I read it super quick. I really enjoyed this splice of life type of new adult romance. Its romance was quite endearing and there wasn't quite the communication issues as I would have expected considering the type of secrets that are involved in this story. Could those issues been handled better? Sure but by young peeps? Probably not haha And there was a solid plot to the story that kept me hooked all the way through that I really appreciated.
First Line
The minute I heard the hum of the garage door opener, I was in motion.
The Main Protagonists
The Hero: Bridger Macaulley
Protector and athlete, a history of being a playboy but isn't really one, taking care of his sister as his mother isn't available to help raise her and working his butt off to get through school for her.
The Heroine: Scarlet Crowley
Scarlet, has changed her identity and while she was once had a promising future as a hockey player, when her father is charged with being a pedophile, she is determined to find her own way in life and find a fresh start.
Summary
The Year We Hid Away starts off with our heroine, Scarlet, escaping from her parents home and their bodyguards with a fresh new identity and to start fresh at the university. We have our hero Bridger, who is working three jobs and attending college full time while having to hide his sister away when his mother falls off the deep end into meth and will do anything to protect his sister even if that means staying hidden from his friends at the university. But then he meets Scarlet and instant chemistry sparks between them. Both Scarlet and Bridger find common ground with each other and a friendship that neither of them thought that they would find. But both of them have secrets and when its all revealed, will their relationship survive?
What I Loved
The Year We Hid Away is a superb read and I had such a blast with it. I really enjoyed the premise of the story and its executed pretty well. Sarina Bowen is a delightful author to read. This is a classic series that is so well loved. And I can definitely see why these are so well recommended. They are just original new adult romances that everyone can fall in love with. In this one we have some interesting setups for our characters. We saw Bridger in the previous book and I was highly eager to see how his story would be developed and get more depths to his character. He was such a man of mystery and a bit of playboy so I was curious in how Bowen would handle his story. Well this was definitely NOT the story that I expected for Bridger haha but it was just as delightful.
Both of our character have to go on their own journey to finding themselves but when they meet, they build such a solid foundation of chemistry and friendship. They instantly build a trust with each other and one of my favorite elements to the story was their easy going relationship. They have such common ground with values that matter and the way in which they have each other's back when their secrets were revealed was perfection. I respected that the drama was kept to a minimum with this one here. Its definitely different from other New Adult romance from its time. Both characters are so likeable and its easy to get behind them and want to cheer them on towards their HEA. Definitely eager to see what is next in the series.
What I Struggled With
This book isn't perfect. The pacing was a bit off at times. The communication could have been better. I wasn't necessarily a fan on the side of the heroine why she didn't come clean with the hero earlier. He revealed his secrets much earlier and I am not sure why she didn't do the same with him. They both have big secrets so I would have liked to see an heroine sharing all parts of herself as the hero was willing to do for her. So it just comes off as Bridger being willing to do more in the relationship than Scarlet. But it was still a solid story just not up to five star par for me personally.
Overall View
This tale is a superb blend of new adult atmosphere, ome hockey feels, solid secrets that have dimension and a romance that delivers in beautiful foundations and strength!
Favorite Quote(s)
My trick is understanding that there aren't any tricks. You just have to wade through each moment as it comes.
Book Details (also in my shelves)
Sub Genre: Contemporary Romance, New Adult
Character Types: Students, Athletes
Themes: Sports-Hockey, Kids Involved, Secrets
Tropes: Friends to Lovers, Instant Love Connection, Secret/Mistaken Identity
Book Perspective
Duo POV
Relationship Conflict vs Plot Conflict
A mix of both
Song This Book Inspires
Cloud 9 by Beach Bunny
Recommendation For Reading Order
I would recommend reading this series in order
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.
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
This installment, The Year We Hid Away, is book 2 in the "Ivy Years" series and I absolutely adored this book. It was utterly delightful. While its not a perfect read, it kept me hooked and I read it super quick. I really enjoyed this splice of life type of new adult romance. Its romance was quite endearing and there wasn't quite the communication issues as I would have expected considering the type of secrets that are involved in this story. Could those issues been handled better? Sure but by young peeps? Probably not haha And there was a solid plot to the story that kept me hooked all the way through that I really appreciated.
First Line
The minute I heard the hum of the garage door opener, I was in motion.
The Main Protagonists
The Hero: Bridger Macaulley
Protector and athlete, a history of being a playboy but isn't really one, taking care of his sister as his mother isn't available to help raise her and working his butt off to get through school for her.
The Heroine: Scarlet Crowley
Scarlet, has changed her identity and while she was once had a promising future as a hockey player, when her father is charged with being a pedophile, she is determined to find her own way in life and find a fresh start.
Summary
The Year We Hid Away starts off with our heroine, Scarlet, escaping from her parents home and their bodyguards with a fresh new identity and to start fresh at the university. We have our hero Bridger, who is working three jobs and attending college full time while having to hide his sister away when his mother falls off the deep end into meth and will do anything to protect his sister even if that means staying hidden from his friends at the university. But then he meets Scarlet and instant chemistry sparks between them. Both Scarlet and Bridger find common ground with each other and a friendship that neither of them thought that they would find. But both of them have secrets and when its all revealed, will their relationship survive?
What I Loved
The Year We Hid Away is a superb read and I had such a blast with it. I really enjoyed the premise of the story and its executed pretty well. Sarina Bowen is a delightful author to read. This is a classic series that is so well loved. And I can definitely see why these are so well recommended. They are just original new adult romances that everyone can fall in love with. In this one we have some interesting setups for our characters. We saw Bridger in the previous book and I was highly eager to see how his story would be developed and get more depths to his character. He was such a man of mystery and a bit of playboy so I was curious in how Bowen would handle his story. Well this was definitely NOT the story that I expected for Bridger haha but it was just as delightful.
Both of our character have to go on their own journey to finding themselves but when they meet, they build such a solid foundation of chemistry and friendship. They instantly build a trust with each other and one of my favorite elements to the story was their easy going relationship. They have such common ground with values that matter and the way in which they have each other's back when their secrets were revealed was perfection. I respected that the drama was kept to a minimum with this one here. Its definitely different from other New Adult romance from its time. Both characters are so likeable and its easy to get behind them and want to cheer them on towards their HEA. Definitely eager to see what is next in the series.
What I Struggled With
This book isn't perfect. The pacing was a bit off at times. The communication could have been better. I wasn't necessarily a fan on the side of the heroine why she didn't come clean with the hero earlier. He revealed his secrets much earlier and I am not sure why she didn't do the same with him. They both have big secrets so I would have liked to see an heroine sharing all parts of herself as the hero was willing to do for her. So it just comes off as Bridger being willing to do more in the relationship than Scarlet. But it was still a solid story just not up to five star par for me personally.
Overall View
This tale is a superb blend of new adult atmosphere, ome hockey feels, solid secrets that have dimension and a romance that delivers in beautiful foundations and strength!
Favorite Quote(s)
My trick is understanding that there aren't any tricks. You just have to wade through each moment as it comes.
Book Details (also in my shelves)
Sub Genre: Contemporary Romance, New Adult
Character Types: Students, Athletes
Themes: Sports-Hockey, Kids Involved, Secrets
Tropes: Friends to Lovers, Instant Love Connection, Secret/Mistaken Identity
Book Perspective
Duo POV
Relationship Conflict vs Plot Conflict
A mix of both
Song This Book Inspires
Cloud 9 by Beach Bunny
Recommendation For Reading Order
I would recommend reading this series in order
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.
adventurous
challenging
dark
emotional
sad
tense
fast-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
A mix
Strong character development:
Yes
Loveable characters:
Yes
Diverse cast of characters:
Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus:
Yes
This review may contain spoilers, so fair warning, upon reading the 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
Deep Redemption is the fourth installment in the "Hades Hangmen" series and it feels like forever since I was in this series and I am not sure why it took me so long, well I kinda do, I knew this book would be angsty as all get out and would be one of the darkest books in the series. I honestly didn't know what to expect when I entered this book but this one completely threw me for a emotional loop. It had me hooked, line and sinker from the very beginning. There was something so compelling about the beginning of this book and I knew I would be in for a wild ride. If you think you know what to expect with this book, you are completely wrong. You definitely don't know what you are getting into with this one here. There are so many twists and turns and I guarantee that this book will turn you upside down and sideways just on a emotional level, this book completely TORE ME UP! And I am not okay!
First Line
Hades' soulless black eyes stared down at me
The Main Protagonists
The Hero: Prophet Cain (aka Rider)
Once part of the Hades Hangmen MC, born to be the leader of the religious cult, seeking redemption for his sins against the innocent
The Heroine: Harmony (cursed daughters of Eve)
Born into the cult, but was destined for more. She is courageous and strong and has a sweet forgiving soul.
Summary
Rider was raised to be seperated from the religious cult he was born into it. He is a twin and was always expected to be the Prophet Cain. He was convinced to infiltrate the MC "Hades Hangmen" but what he discovered there was a brotherhood and family and a beautiful life he could have had. But his vows he thought were of worth but when he discovers that the religious cult that he has believed in all of his life is not what he expected, he is determined to get redemption for. He is betrayed by his twin and tortured to fall into line with what the cult actually is. But his twin is literally insane and when in his prison he meets a beauty of grace and love and courage, he quickly falls hard for Harmony. Harmony has always known what she was destined for, and in order to save those that she loves, she needs to make the sacrifice to be the bride for Rider's twin. But when she falls hard for this strong man packed with sins and fight, she is willing to stand by his side and fight with and for him...
What I Loved
Deep Redemption is a story that I didn't expect to fall hard for. I expected this book to be a regular solid read like the previous three books were for me, but this book completely threw me off the field with his destruction and beautiful epic love I never thought that I would find. This is a story that is so much about redemption, healing and forgiveness and finding love when you least expect it. Seeing this villain of sorts find his redemption story was so heartfelt. You see his confusion, his pain, his soul being torn into two and at a loss at what to do. And once he finds the truth, he does what is needed. I really adored Rider's story and it was everything I could have hoped for and more.
Seeing Rider and Harmony come together was so precious. These two souls that are so caught up in the deception and lies and sacrifice will entangle your heart so completely. This is not an easy one to read, but its a romance that is worth your heart and focus. What Rider is willing to sacrifice for his woman leaves one humbled. This book is HIS journey and what a road he goes on here. And it doesn't end when he is determined to get free of the cult. He also has to make amends with the Hades Hangmen MC and in doing so it will tear the club apart literally. It broke my heart seeing what the MC puts him through but also what our strong women so far stand for their sister and for Rider who may not have participated in their suffering but was complicet. But for them to stand by his side because Harmony loves him and will sacrifice herself for him strikes deep to the soul. We still don't know what will happen to Rider and Harmony fully, I am hoping we get those answers in the upcoming books though. But despite the HFN type of ending, it still left me swoony and satisfied.
What I Struggled With
Other than a more satisfied ending but its still a five star! bUT *CROSSING FINGERS* we see this couple find the happy ending they deserve.
Overall View
Deep Redemption is a dark romance that bleeds heart and soul on every page. Its a story that delivers the pain....the heart...and the truest redemption you can find in a romance! COMPELLING IN EVERY MOMENT!
Favorite Quote(s)
"I'm not good," he argued. "I don't believe that."
I smiled. Pressing my forehead to his, I said, "Then I will believe it for you."
"I would gladly be his redemption, if he would finally forgive himself first."
"I...I have no home," he said sadly.
Taking his hand from my face, I placed it over my racing heart. "Yes you do. Your home is right here."
She credited me with saving her life when really, she had saved me in every single way possible. She gave me life when she spoke to me through that stone wall. She gave me hope when she wanted me despite who I was. And she fought the Hangmen for me when I should have died.
I focused on solely on the moment, letting the past drift away. Because only this was important. No religion, no duty, no club…just us. JUST HER.
The woman in my arms.
My heart. My soul…MY DEEPEST REDEMPTION.
Book Details (also in my shelves)
Sub Genre: Contemporary Romance, Dark Romance
Character Types: Bikers, Cults, Abused
Themes: PTSD, All the Feels
Tropes: Forced Proximity, Forbidden Love
Book Perspective
Duo POV
Relationship Conflict vs Plot Conflict
A blend of both
Song This Book Inspires
You Say by Lauren Daigle
Recommendation For Reading Order
Yes please read these in order if possible
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
Deep Redemption is the fourth installment in the "Hades Hangmen" series and it feels like forever since I was in this series and I am not sure why it took me so long, well I kinda do, I knew this book would be angsty as all get out and would be one of the darkest books in the series. I honestly didn't know what to expect when I entered this book but this one completely threw me for a emotional loop. It had me hooked, line and sinker from the very beginning. There was something so compelling about the beginning of this book and I knew I would be in for a wild ride. If you think you know what to expect with this book, you are completely wrong. You definitely don't know what you are getting into with this one here. There are so many twists and turns and I guarantee that this book will turn you upside down and sideways just on a emotional level, this book completely TORE ME UP! And I am not okay!
First Line
Hades' soulless black eyes stared down at me
The Main Protagonists
The Hero: Prophet Cain (aka Rider)
Once part of the Hades Hangmen MC, born to be the leader of the religious cult, seeking redemption for his sins against the innocent
The Heroine: Harmony (cursed daughters of Eve)
Born into the cult, but was destined for more. She is courageous and strong and has a sweet forgiving soul.
Summary
Rider was raised to be seperated from the religious cult he was born into it. He is a twin and was always expected to be the Prophet Cain. He was convinced to infiltrate the MC "Hades Hangmen" but what he discovered there was a brotherhood and family and a beautiful life he could have had. But his vows he thought were of worth but when he discovers that the religious cult that he has believed in all of his life is not what he expected, he is determined to get redemption for. He is betrayed by his twin and tortured to fall into line with what the cult actually is. But his twin is literally insane and when in his prison he meets a beauty of grace and love and courage, he quickly falls hard for Harmony. Harmony has always known what she was destined for, and in order to save those that she loves, she needs to make the sacrifice to be the bride for Rider's twin. But when she falls hard for this strong man packed with sins and fight, she is willing to stand by his side and fight with and for him...
What I Loved
Deep Redemption is a story that I didn't expect to fall hard for. I expected this book to be a regular solid read like the previous three books were for me, but this book completely threw me off the field with his destruction and beautiful epic love I never thought that I would find. This is a story that is so much about redemption, healing and forgiveness and finding love when you least expect it. Seeing this villain of sorts find his redemption story was so heartfelt. You see his confusion, his pain, his soul being torn into two and at a loss at what to do. And once he finds the truth, he does what is needed. I really adored Rider's story and it was everything I could have hoped for and more.
Seeing Rider and Harmony come together was so precious. These two souls that are so caught up in the deception and lies and sacrifice will entangle your heart so completely. This is not an easy one to read, but its a romance that is worth your heart and focus. What Rider is willing to sacrifice for his woman leaves one humbled. This book is HIS journey and what a road he goes on here. And it doesn't end when he is determined to get free of the cult. He also has to make amends with the Hades Hangmen MC and in doing so it will tear the club apart literally. It broke my heart seeing what the MC puts him through but also what our strong women so far stand for their sister and for Rider who may not have participated in their suffering but was complicet. But for them to stand by his side because Harmony loves him and will sacrifice herself for him strikes deep to the soul. We still don't know what will happen to Rider and Harmony fully, I am hoping we get those answers in the upcoming books though. But despite the HFN type of ending, it still left me swoony and satisfied.
What I Struggled With
Other than a more satisfied ending but its still a five star! bUT *CROSSING FINGERS* we see this couple find the happy ending they deserve.
Overall View
Deep Redemption is a dark romance that bleeds heart and soul on every page. Its a story that delivers the pain....the heart...and the truest redemption you can find in a romance! COMPELLING IN EVERY MOMENT!
Favorite Quote(s)
"I'm not good," he argued. "I don't believe that."
I smiled. Pressing my forehead to his, I said, "Then I will believe it for you."
"I would gladly be his redemption, if he would finally forgive himself first."
"I...I have no home," he said sadly.
Taking his hand from my face, I placed it over my racing heart. "Yes you do. Your home is right here."
She credited me with saving her life when really, she had saved me in every single way possible. She gave me life when she spoke to me through that stone wall. She gave me hope when she wanted me despite who I was. And she fought the Hangmen for me when I should have died.
I focused on solely on the moment, letting the past drift away. Because only this was important. No religion, no duty, no club…just us. JUST HER.
The woman in my arms.
My heart. My soul…MY DEEPEST REDEMPTION.
Book Details (also in my shelves)
Sub Genre: Contemporary Romance, Dark Romance
Character Types: Bikers, Cults, Abused
Themes: PTSD, All the Feels
Tropes: Forced Proximity, Forbidden Love
Book Perspective
Duo POV
Relationship Conflict vs Plot Conflict
A blend of both
Song This Book Inspires
You Say by Lauren Daigle
Recommendation For Reading Order
Yes please read these in order if possible
Steam/Spice Explanations
Steamin' up the room -the sexual content is more explicit in the language and tone, heavier amount of sexual scenes.
adventurous
emotional
funny
hopeful
inspiring
reflective
medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
Character
Strong character development:
Yes
Loveable characters:
Yes
Diverse cast of characters:
No
Flaws of characters a main focus:
No
This review may contain spoilers, so fair warning, upon reading the 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
Huckleberry Harvest is the fifth installement in the "Matchmakers of Huckleberry Hill" series and thi is Mandy's book. For those that aren't familar with the theme of the series, we have our grandparents (they do have a book which is the last one in the series I believe) who matchmake their grandkids into love and marriage Amish style haha If you like cozy endearing inspirational romance, then this is an author you need to pick up. I absolutely have fallen head over heels in love with Amish romance. Its so refreshing to read at times. Huckleberry Harvest is probably the most cozy out of all the books I have read in the series so far though. There is such an easygoing relationship in the romance and it does have a third act conflict/breakup but that's okay, the author makes them work.
First Line
The chickens gathered at Anna Helmuth's feet as she scattered scratch from her pail.
The Main Protagonists
The Hero: Noah Mischler
A young man who is tortured emotionally. Protects his father who is grieving and is an alcoholic but stays with him. Hard worker and devoted to his faith but lets pride get the better of him at times.
The Heroine: Mandy Helmuth
Mandy is kind and caring and sees the good in people. She is always wanting to help others.
Summary
Mandy Helmuth is visiting her grandparents for a month and in the process wants to help her best friend win her boyfriend back. But what Mandy doesn't realize is that Kristina has been manipulating the situation and been deceiving her on the truth of what her relationship with Noah has really been about. When Kristina drags her to spy on Noah, its the last straw for Mandy. When he saves her life, there is a change in the relationship between Noah and Mandy. As Noah is working on repairs for her grandparents place, she begins to see the man beneath his rough exterior. But he is also the man her best friend wants to have, and is torn on choosing Noah for a husband or her best friend...
What I Loved
Huckleberry Harvest despite how the blurb sounds, has so many cozy fall vibes to it. It was such an easy book to relax into and I became so charmed by this one. I do think this is one of the better books of the series if I had to choose. And I am liking this narrator the more I listen to her and she really handles the tones of the story very well. And I especially love how she handles the dialogue between the grandparents. They remind me so much of my own that its so nostalgic. I also love the support system that is showcased in here. Not sure if that is the normal Amish way, but if it is, I truly respect this culture more and more. I also enjoyed the easy way that Noah and Mandy get along once they let go of their pride and just learn to be together. Noah and Mandy individually are such wonderful characters. Noah is a man of mystery. You see how tortured he is in having to choose his dad and taking care of him even when he is abused at times when he is drunk. Then we have Mandy who just wants to help him out and has such an open caring heart.
What I Struggled With
The best friend and the third act conflict. I was not a fan in how these were handled. I like a good conflict but the best friend Kristina was awful and never had to apologize for anything she did. I did want some more justice surrounding her actions and how she harmed her best friend. Best friends don't treat each other like Kristina does to Mandy. And the third act breakup felt unnecessary. I get misunderstandings, but it felt too much in comparison to the story that is delivered.
Narration
This narrator isn't bad and really brings out the vibes of an Amish romance really well. The dialogue especially is just perfect and why I am doing this series in audio. She really uplifts the story in the right ways.
Overall View
Huckleberry Harvest is a stunning story that melted my heart and delivered on the most authentic cozy vibes for a romance. Its sweet and easy going and packed with emotional intimacy.
Favorite Quote(s)
“Even when we sin, even when our trouble is of our own making, Jesus doesn’t abandon us.”
Book Details (also in my shelves)
Sub Genre: Contemporary Romance, Inspirational Romance
Character Types: Amish, Country/Farmer, Tortured Hero
Themes: Small Town, Cozy Vibes, Family Bonds, Sweet Romance, Fade To Black
Tropes: Friends To Lovers, Forbidden Love
Book Perspective
3rd POV
Relationship Conflict vs Plot Conflict
Relationship Conflict
Song This Book Inspires
Center Point Road by Thomas Rhett, Kelsea Ballerini
Recommendation For Reading Order
You can read as standalones
Steam/Spice Explanations
Simmering cup of tea---soft warm touches and light intimacy
Narrators:
C.S.E. Cooney
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
Huckleberry Harvest is the fifth installement in the "Matchmakers of Huckleberry Hill" series and thi is Mandy's book. For those that aren't familar with the theme of the series, we have our grandparents (they do have a book which is the last one in the series I believe) who matchmake their grandkids into love and marriage Amish style haha If you like cozy endearing inspirational romance, then this is an author you need to pick up. I absolutely have fallen head over heels in love with Amish romance. Its so refreshing to read at times. Huckleberry Harvest is probably the most cozy out of all the books I have read in the series so far though. There is such an easygoing relationship in the romance and it does have a third act conflict/breakup but that's okay, the author makes them work.
First Line
The chickens gathered at Anna Helmuth's feet as she scattered scratch from her pail.
The Main Protagonists
The Hero: Noah Mischler
A young man who is tortured emotionally. Protects his father who is grieving and is an alcoholic but stays with him. Hard worker and devoted to his faith but lets pride get the better of him at times.
The Heroine: Mandy Helmuth
Mandy is kind and caring and sees the good in people. She is always wanting to help others.
Summary
Mandy Helmuth is visiting her grandparents for a month and in the process wants to help her best friend win her boyfriend back. But what Mandy doesn't realize is that Kristina has been manipulating the situation and been deceiving her on the truth of what her relationship with Noah has really been about. When Kristina drags her to spy on Noah, its the last straw for Mandy. When he saves her life, there is a change in the relationship between Noah and Mandy. As Noah is working on repairs for her grandparents place, she begins to see the man beneath his rough exterior. But he is also the man her best friend wants to have, and is torn on choosing Noah for a husband or her best friend...
What I Loved
Huckleberry Harvest despite how the blurb sounds, has so many cozy fall vibes to it. It was such an easy book to relax into and I became so charmed by this one. I do think this is one of the better books of the series if I had to choose. And I am liking this narrator the more I listen to her and she really handles the tones of the story very well. And I especially love how she handles the dialogue between the grandparents. They remind me so much of my own that its so nostalgic. I also love the support system that is showcased in here. Not sure if that is the normal Amish way, but if it is, I truly respect this culture more and more. I also enjoyed the easy way that Noah and Mandy get along once they let go of their pride and just learn to be together. Noah and Mandy individually are such wonderful characters. Noah is a man of mystery. You see how tortured he is in having to choose his dad and taking care of him even when he is abused at times when he is drunk. Then we have Mandy who just wants to help him out and has such an open caring heart.
What I Struggled With
The best friend and the third act conflict. I was not a fan in how these were handled. I like a good conflict but the best friend Kristina was awful and never had to apologize for anything she did. I did want some more justice surrounding her actions and how she harmed her best friend. Best friends don't treat each other like Kristina does to Mandy. And the third act breakup felt unnecessary. I get misunderstandings, but it felt too much in comparison to the story that is delivered.
Narration
This narrator isn't bad and really brings out the vibes of an Amish romance really well. The dialogue especially is just perfect and why I am doing this series in audio. She really uplifts the story in the right ways.
Overall View
Huckleberry Harvest is a stunning story that melted my heart and delivered on the most authentic cozy vibes for a romance. Its sweet and easy going and packed with emotional intimacy.
Favorite Quote(s)
“Even when we sin, even when our trouble is of our own making, Jesus doesn’t abandon us.”
Book Details (also in my shelves)
Sub Genre: Contemporary Romance, Inspirational Romance
Character Types: Amish, Country/Farmer, Tortured Hero
Themes: Small Town, Cozy Vibes, Family Bonds, Sweet Romance, Fade To Black
Tropes: Friends To Lovers, Forbidden Love
Book Perspective
3rd POV
Relationship Conflict vs Plot Conflict
Relationship Conflict
Song This Book Inspires
Center Point Road by Thomas Rhett, Kelsea Ballerini
Recommendation For Reading Order
You can read as standalones
Steam/Spice Explanations
Simmering cup of tea---soft warm touches and light intimacy
Narrators:
C.S.E. Cooney
adventurous
challenging
emotional
funny
hopeful
reflective
sad
fast-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
Character
Strong character development:
Yes
Loveable characters:
Yes
Diverse cast of characters:
Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus:
No
This review may contain spoilers, so fair warning, upon reading the review.
Book Evaluation:
Plot: 🎞️🎞️🎞️🎞️.5
World Building:🌎🌎🌎🌎🌎
Cover:📔📔📔📔📔
Hero: 🦸🏻🦸🏻🦸🏻🦸🏻🦸🏻
Heroine:🦸🏻♀️🦸🏻♀️🦸🏻♀️🦸🏻♀️🦸🏻♀️
Intimacy Level: 🔥🔥🔥🔥
Relationship Building: 💒💒💒💒.5
Heart & Feels:💞💞💞💞.5
Witty/Banter/Reaction of Laughter: 😂😂😂😂
Page Turner Level:📖📖📖📖.5
Ending:🧧🧧🧧🧧
Overall View: ✨✨✨✨.5
First Impressions
The Quiet is the most recent release from Linda Kage and is also a standalone so you can easily read this on its own if you are new to this author. Linda Kage has become a personal favorite when it comes to contemporary and especially new adult romance. I absolutely adore the combination of elements that she delivers into a story and she really writes the most come to life characters that I have ever read. The Quiet was a delighter, interracial romance that delved into relatable issues and brings together the most unlikely couple that have the most beautiful connection that resonates deeply. The Quiet is a beautiful small town romance that I couldn't get enough of.
First Line
The bruise around Mama's eye hadn't even faded yet when we rolled into town that year.
The Main Protagonists
The Hero: Zac Topper
Bad Boy, Outcast of the town, Gruff and grumpy and a jack of all trades and a hard worker but a lone wolf type who has had limited human touch.
The Heroine: (Heroine's Name)
Mariana Ruiz, a hispanic young woman who is mute from a trauma she experienced as a child. She is intelligent, a poet and sees the beauty in human contact, joy and nature.
Summary
Zac Topper came to the small town of Peril when he was but a young boy and his mother was being abused by her boyfriend. This was to be a fresh start for them. But Zac in his growing years was treated like an outcast of sorts, bullied and treated horribly and the town believes his bullies over him and thus created a bad reputation and only works the jobs that no one wants to do to support himself and his mother. Then we have Mari, who became a mute due to the trauma of losing her parents in a car accident and Mari has a sweet loving spirit. Instantly she is drawn to Zac and has the urge to bring him love and affection as its apparent he is starved for human touch and connection. Zac and Mari instantly grow together when they find common ground and connect over the beauty in the nature surrounding them. But as they build their relationship, there are enemies that wish to separate them and only by believing in each other will they rise above the storm ahead...
What I Loved
I really adored the way in which we see these two come together. From the very beginning, I was all in for these two to be together. Their meet cute was so heartfelt and real and I instantly gravitated towards these two who deserve so much and have been treated so poorly in this small town. Especially in how the law enforcement treated Zac especially but seeing his strength and courage and determination to work hard and provide for himself and his mother was poignant at times. Then we have the way that Mari is with Zac. She sees the good soul that he is and always believes in him. She has such a sweet caring nature that heals the wounds of bad treatment that Zac has felt. Seeing these two lost come together and find such common ground with each other was truly endearing. And their connection to the nature around them and their poetry was instantly so deep and I related so much with some of their talks they have with each other. This is definitely one of the most profound romances I have ever seen this author write and it left me so satisfied and happy as a clam for what these two find together.
What I Struggled With
Not much to be honest, I wish that there had been a bit more justice in the wrongs committed against the couple a bit. But it didn't really reflect badly on the story itself.
Overall View
I found The Quiet to be a heartfelt romance that tugged at the heartstrings in deep pivotal ways. Its a story of healing, growth, and the power of connection amidst a setting of distrust and loneliness.
Favorite Quote(s)
“You could lead me anywhere, and I’d be happy to go. Because I’d be with you.”
Book Details (also in my shelves)
Sub Genre: Contemporary Romance, New Adult
Character Types: Bad Boy, Blue Collar, Hispanic Heritage
Themes: Small Town, Pining Heroine, Heart/Emotional, All the Feels
Tropes: Unrequited Love, Friends to Lovers, Opposites Attract, Grump/Sunshine
Book Perspective
Duo POV
Relationship Conflict vs Plot Conflict
A Mix
Song This Book Inspires
Place in Me by Luke Hemmings
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: 🎞️🎞️🎞️🎞️.5
World Building:🌎🌎🌎🌎🌎
Cover:📔📔📔📔📔
Hero: 🦸🏻🦸🏻🦸🏻🦸🏻🦸🏻
Heroine:🦸🏻♀️🦸🏻♀️🦸🏻♀️🦸🏻♀️🦸🏻♀️
Intimacy Level: 🔥🔥🔥🔥
Relationship Building: 💒💒💒💒.5
Heart & Feels:💞💞💞💞.5
Witty/Banter/Reaction of Laughter: 😂😂😂😂
Page Turner Level:📖📖📖📖.5
Ending:🧧🧧🧧🧧
Overall View: ✨✨✨✨.5
First Impressions
The Quiet is the most recent release from Linda Kage and is also a standalone so you can easily read this on its own if you are new to this author. Linda Kage has become a personal favorite when it comes to contemporary and especially new adult romance. I absolutely adore the combination of elements that she delivers into a story and she really writes the most come to life characters that I have ever read. The Quiet was a delighter, interracial romance that delved into relatable issues and brings together the most unlikely couple that have the most beautiful connection that resonates deeply. The Quiet is a beautiful small town romance that I couldn't get enough of.
First Line
The bruise around Mama's eye hadn't even faded yet when we rolled into town that year.
The Main Protagonists
The Hero: Zac Topper
Bad Boy, Outcast of the town, Gruff and grumpy and a jack of all trades and a hard worker but a lone wolf type who has had limited human touch.
The Heroine: (Heroine's Name)
Mariana Ruiz, a hispanic young woman who is mute from a trauma she experienced as a child. She is intelligent, a poet and sees the beauty in human contact, joy and nature.
Summary
Zac Topper came to the small town of Peril when he was but a young boy and his mother was being abused by her boyfriend. This was to be a fresh start for them. But Zac in his growing years was treated like an outcast of sorts, bullied and treated horribly and the town believes his bullies over him and thus created a bad reputation and only works the jobs that no one wants to do to support himself and his mother. Then we have Mari, who became a mute due to the trauma of losing her parents in a car accident and Mari has a sweet loving spirit. Instantly she is drawn to Zac and has the urge to bring him love and affection as its apparent he is starved for human touch and connection. Zac and Mari instantly grow together when they find common ground and connect over the beauty in the nature surrounding them. But as they build their relationship, there are enemies that wish to separate them and only by believing in each other will they rise above the storm ahead...
What I Loved
I really adored the way in which we see these two come together. From the very beginning, I was all in for these two to be together. Their meet cute was so heartfelt and real and I instantly gravitated towards these two who deserve so much and have been treated so poorly in this small town. Especially in how the law enforcement treated Zac especially but seeing his strength and courage and determination to work hard and provide for himself and his mother was poignant at times. Then we have the way that Mari is with Zac. She sees the good soul that he is and always believes in him. She has such a sweet caring nature that heals the wounds of bad treatment that Zac has felt. Seeing these two lost come together and find such common ground with each other was truly endearing. And their connection to the nature around them and their poetry was instantly so deep and I related so much with some of their talks they have with each other. This is definitely one of the most profound romances I have ever seen this author write and it left me so satisfied and happy as a clam for what these two find together.
What I Struggled With
Not much to be honest, I wish that there had been a bit more justice in the wrongs committed against the couple a bit. But it didn't really reflect badly on the story itself.
Overall View
I found The Quiet to be a heartfelt romance that tugged at the heartstrings in deep pivotal ways. Its a story of healing, growth, and the power of connection amidst a setting of distrust and loneliness.
Favorite Quote(s)
“You could lead me anywhere, and I’d be happy to go. Because I’d be with you.”
Book Details (also in my shelves)
Sub Genre: Contemporary Romance, New Adult
Character Types: Bad Boy, Blue Collar, Hispanic Heritage
Themes: Small Town, Pining Heroine, Heart/Emotional, All the Feels
Tropes: Unrequited Love, Friends to Lovers, Opposites Attract, Grump/Sunshine
Book Perspective
Duo POV
Relationship Conflict vs Plot Conflict
A Mix
Song This Book Inspires
Place in Me by Luke Hemmings
Steam/Spice Explanations
Steamin' up the room -the sexual content is more explicit in the language and tone, heavier amount of sexual scenes.
challenging
emotional
medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
Character
Strong character development:
No
Loveable characters:
No
Diverse cast of characters:
No
Flaws of characters a main focus:
Yes
Return to Monte Carlo was a book that I was eagerly excited for. There had been so many positive reviews so I had high expectations that this would be a Cate C Wells that I would fall in love with but yeah this wasn't as I was expecting and wasn't nearly as great as I was hoping for considering all the five stars. Its very apparent that this writing style of this author is definitely not really for me. While its not bad or anything, it definitely needs more polish and editing to it. Its hard to get into her books at times, and the pacing was so off in this book that it kept me from really being able to become engaged by this book here. I wanted so much to love this one though because of the set up and the time era...I love older contemporary era's and while it had some aspects of that some of the terminology was much more modern than what you would get in the 80's and feminism was very different back then and that aspect could have been written better. Now as for the romance, this was really hard to be invested in to be honest. There was such a disconnect between this couple and I never "felt" that connection that should have been there until like the last couple of chapters. As this is my third Cate C. Wells, I am pretty sure her books just aren't for me as I never enjoy them as much as I want to. I am thrilled that so many are loving this one though, but unfortunately too many factors kept me from enjoying this one as I would have liked.
Return to Monte Carlo was a book that I was eagerled for. There had been so many positive reviews so I had high expectations that this would be a Cate C Wells that I would fall in love with but yeah this wasn't as I was expecting and wasn't nearly as great as I was hoping for considering all the five stars. Its very apparent that this writing style of this author is definitely not really for me. While its not bad or anything, it definitely needs more polish and editing to it. Its hard to get into her books at times, and the pacing was so off in this book that it kept me from really being able to become engaged by this book here. I wanted so much to love this one though because of the set up and the time era...I love older contemporary era's and while it had some aspects of that some of the terminology was much more modern than what you would get in the 80's and feminism was very different back then and that aspect could have been written better. Now as for the romance, this was really hard to be invested in to be honest. There was such a disconnect between this couple and I never "felt" that connection that should have been there until like the last couple of chapters. As this is my third Cate C. Wells, I am pretty sure her books just aren't for me as I never enjoy them as much as I want to. I am thrilled that so many are loving this one though, but unfortunately too many factors kept me from enjoying this
adventurous
challenging
emotional
funny
mysterious
tense
medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
A mix
Strong character development:
Yes
Loveable characters:
Yes
Diverse cast of characters:
Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus:
No
This review may contain spoilers, so fair warning, upon reading the review.
Book Evaluation:
Plot: 🎞️🎞️🎞️🎞️
World Building:🌎🌎🌎🌎
Cover:📔📔📔📔
Intimacy Level: 🔥🔥🔥🔥
Relationship Building: 💒💒💒💒
Heart & Feels:💞💞💞💞
Witty/Banter/Reaction of Laughter: 😂😂😂😂
Page Turner Level:📖📖📖📖
Ending:🧧🧧🧧🧧
Overall View: ✨✨✨.75
First Impressions
Soul Eater is the first book in the "Monstrous" series and I have been really apprehensive about monster romances because I can't do it when they are too animalistic. It just way too close to the beastiality fetish. But I was recommended this one by a wonderful friend over at instagram who knew that this was more supernatural feeling in the monster and now having read this infamous monster romance I definitely understand now why its been so popular. And while it wasn't a perfect read, it was quite entertaining and the monster aspects of the story worked for me, not sure if I will invest in the series though, will do some research on the other books before deciding whether to move forward or not.
First Line
"Alright, men. This is the culmination of twenty years of intel, lost lives and millions of dollars.
Summary
Our story begins in a post apocalyptic world set in the United States, we have our human protagonist "Danny" who is in the military and joined when he was stuck in the city and lost his only family. Now he is just another "grunt" and a cog in the machine. He is sent in the barren lands called the "Wastes" to confront the "Soul Eater" aka Wyn. His wholed troop is killed by the Soul Eater, but he is left alive. His commanders capture Wyn and wants Danny to find out all the information he can on him. Wyn and Danny form an alliance and friendship of sorts. Wyn gives Danny an option to stay with his military forces, go out on his own or join him on his travels. Danny decides to join Wyn despite not knowing what to expect from Wyn. What starts out as a alliance, turns into a friendship and into something deeper on a romantic level. But their enemies will test their relationship in their journey across the American lands...
What I Loved
There was so much that I loved about this story. First, I adored this futuristic world in the States. It was so intriguing and I love the post apocalypitic worlds that authors create and this one was just right. The author really handles the atmospheric vibes so well in this one. But we also have such strong friendship between Wyn and Danny. And their meet cute was so intense and compelling. I just had to keep with their story because I was so drawn into their relationship and the connection that they have together. Now granted, there is so much mystery surrounding Wyn as he is killing human. But once you learn the secrets of what happens then it really makes sense what he is doing and his true mission. We get to meet one of his friends along the way and I am so tempted to read his book. haha
The romance that develops between Danny and Wyn was so precious. I loved the way that they explore each other and really have this connection that is so much more than on the physical level. Its intense and poignant and melted my heart with each chapter. I was immediately on the team cheering for these two to find their way. They definitely have some challenges that they both need to overcome and seeing them work together and work with their issues really resonates on a deep human level.
What I Struggled With
Some of the sex scenes were a little strange. I went with it because its a monster romance but it did turn me off a bit. And some of the pacing in the middle of the story was a bit slow at times. And the plot was a bit more simple than I would have liked. I would have preferred a bit more complexity developed in the storyline.
Overall View
I found Soul Eater to be sexy urban fantasy romance that had great focus on the romantic relationship and solid world building that will leave you eager to read the next in the series.
Favorite Quote(s)
“You’re in my blood now, Danny Sullihan. I’ll always be able to find you.”
Book Details (also in my shelves)
Sub Genre: Urban Fantasy, LGBTQ, Dystopian
Character Types: Monster, Military
Themes: Gay for You, MC Experiments, MC on the Run
Tropes: Forced Proximity, Friends to Lovers
Book Perspective
1st POV
Relationship Conflict vs Plot Conflict
A mix of both
Song This Book Inspires
Whispers in the Dark-Skillet
Recommendation For Reading Order
Yes I would say read these 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.
Book Evaluation:
Plot: 🎞️🎞️🎞️🎞️
World Building:🌎🌎🌎🌎
Cover:📔📔📔📔
Intimacy Level: 🔥🔥🔥🔥
Relationship Building: 💒💒💒💒
Heart & Feels:💞💞💞💞
Witty/Banter/Reaction of Laughter: 😂😂😂😂
Page Turner Level:📖📖📖📖
Ending:🧧🧧🧧🧧
Overall View: ✨✨✨.75
First Impressions
Soul Eater is the first book in the "Monstrous" series and I have been really apprehensive about monster romances because I can't do it when they are too animalistic. It just way too close to the beastiality fetish. But I was recommended this one by a wonderful friend over at instagram who knew that this was more supernatural feeling in the monster and now having read this infamous monster romance I definitely understand now why its been so popular. And while it wasn't a perfect read, it was quite entertaining and the monster aspects of the story worked for me, not sure if I will invest in the series though, will do some research on the other books before deciding whether to move forward or not.
First Line
"Alright, men. This is the culmination of twenty years of intel, lost lives and millions of dollars.
Summary
Our story begins in a post apocalyptic world set in the United States, we have our human protagonist "Danny" who is in the military and joined when he was stuck in the city and lost his only family. Now he is just another "grunt" and a cog in the machine. He is sent in the barren lands called the "Wastes" to confront the "Soul Eater" aka Wyn. His wholed troop is killed by the Soul Eater, but he is left alive. His commanders capture Wyn and wants Danny to find out all the information he can on him. Wyn and Danny form an alliance and friendship of sorts. Wyn gives Danny an option to stay with his military forces, go out on his own or join him on his travels. Danny decides to join Wyn despite not knowing what to expect from Wyn. What starts out as a alliance, turns into a friendship and into something deeper on a romantic level. But their enemies will test their relationship in their journey across the American lands...
What I Loved
There was so much that I loved about this story. First, I adored this futuristic world in the States. It was so intriguing and I love the post apocalypitic worlds that authors create and this one was just right. The author really handles the atmospheric vibes so well in this one. But we also have such strong friendship between Wyn and Danny. And their meet cute was so intense and compelling. I just had to keep with their story because I was so drawn into their relationship and the connection that they have together. Now granted, there is so much mystery surrounding Wyn as he is killing human. But once you learn the secrets of what happens then it really makes sense what he is doing and his true mission. We get to meet one of his friends along the way and I am so tempted to read his book. haha
The romance that develops between Danny and Wyn was so precious. I loved the way that they explore each other and really have this connection that is so much more than on the physical level. Its intense and poignant and melted my heart with each chapter. I was immediately on the team cheering for these two to find their way. They definitely have some challenges that they both need to overcome and seeing them work together and work with their issues really resonates on a deep human level.
What I Struggled With
Some of the sex scenes were a little strange. I went with it because its a monster romance but it did turn me off a bit. And some of the pacing in the middle of the story was a bit slow at times. And the plot was a bit more simple than I would have liked. I would have preferred a bit more complexity developed in the storyline.
Overall View
I found Soul Eater to be sexy urban fantasy romance that had great focus on the romantic relationship and solid world building that will leave you eager to read the next in the series.
Favorite Quote(s)
“You’re in my blood now, Danny Sullihan. I’ll always be able to find you.”
Book Details (also in my shelves)
Sub Genre: Urban Fantasy, LGBTQ, Dystopian
Character Types: Monster, Military
Themes: Gay for You, MC Experiments, MC on the Run
Tropes: Forced Proximity, Friends to Lovers
Book Perspective
1st POV
Relationship Conflict vs Plot Conflict
A mix of both
Song This Book Inspires
Whispers in the Dark-Skillet
Recommendation For Reading Order
Yes I would say read these 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.
challenging
emotional
funny
hopeful
inspiring
medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
A mix
Strong character development:
Yes
Loveable characters:
Yes
Diverse cast of characters:
No
This review may contain spoilers, so fair warning, upon reading the 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
Kiss An Angel is a standalone romantic comedy by Susan Elizabeth Phillips. This is a classic style of a romantic comedy and I had such a blast with this one. I am falling in love with this style of Phillips and how she crafts a romance. Kiss An Angel was recommended to me as I am such a strong fan of the arranged marriage trope so I went into this one with so much excitement. And It was worth it for sure. This book held my heart very early on. It does have some elements in the content of the story that may prove to be challenging for some readers, but I fell so hard for this book and especially the romance that is built within this one here. I really was hooked into Kiss An Angel and was completely different than I expected it to be but it delivered fully and had me laughing so hard all the way through it.
First Line
Daisy Devreauyx had forgotten her bridegroom's name...
Summary
Kiss an Angel begins with the start of a marriage. Alex Markov is a broody man who doesn’t believe he can ever love. But he makes a deal with Daisy’s father and will be married to Daisy for six months. Daisy finds herself in trouble with the law, her father gets her out of it, but in exchange she will have to marry this dark stranger who doesn’t know how to smile or laugh and is strict in standards of behavior. Daisy knows that she has little choice in this marriage, but wants to make the best of the circumstances that have been dealt to her. For Daisy marriage and sex is sacred and she wants to do her best in this marriage….but marriage to Alex won’t be as easy as she would have imagined. Alex manages a circus and Daisy being his wife, she will now have to work alongside him in the workings of the circus. Daisy is shocked that her marriage will start off this way, she and animals do not get along, and she is cursed when it comes to relating to animals but Daisy starts to find her own strength and connections to these animals who win her heart alongside with their master…Alex Markov. But will the ice around Alex’s heart be able to be melted or will Daisy be in this marriage alone….
What I Loved
So many things I adored about this book here. Kiss An Angel is a riot of angst and chemistry and delicious humor that just pulls you more and more into the story. I absolutely adored both of these characters. They are the true epitome of grumpy sunshine. And the circus setting was so fascinating. Especially in the viewpoint from the mid 90’s, this was definitely a different time and it had so many nostalgic vibes and this is why I don’t mind reading older contemporaries because it has a view of a time that is so different and refreshing from today. I really enjoyed the way in which these two banter with each other. They have such different expectations and outlooks on life so seeing them find ways to become compatible was entertaining. We also have the conflicts that rise within this story. It was so heartwrenching to see what this heroine has to go through at times. But we see her journey in finding herself and seeing what she is capable of accomplishing. On the surface, she seems flighty, but she has this will of iron, and seeing that be tested was perfection. I loved what we saw her overcome. What I also admired was how she took her vows so seriously and how she views sex was so refreshing from what we see in so many contemporaries these days. And the way in which she is willing to fight for her marriage is inspiring. Then we have our delectable hero, who is hard as stone. He has suffered abuse as a kid, which has shaped him in the hard-hearted man that he is. He cares for others, but it doesn’t always show. We see how slowly Daisy’s personality and courage wins him over and how he has to face up to the demons of his past and find his own will to open himself up to love.
What I Struggled With
The third act in this book was really tough to swallow. I had a rough time with how the grovel scene was handled. I felt like there should have been more forgiveness portrayed and not stretching out the grovel, as it didn’t need to be stretched out like it was and turned me off a bit. As long as there is change and sincerity in the grovel, it never needs to be stretched out to these proportions.
Narration
Anna Fields portrays this author’s books perfectly! She really brings out the humor just right and also just handles the vibe and tone of the story just right and delivers the classic feel of the story.
Overall View
Kiss An Angel is a stimulating, heart and humor delivered just right, and a story that is packed with relatable characters, charm and class and delivers a captivating arranged marriage romance to delight in! A DELECTABLE GEM!
Favorite Quote(s)
Don’t dare a person who has nothing else left to lose.”
There was a sweetness about her that was as unexpected as it was disturbing because it made her so much more vulnerable than he wanted her to be.
We can do this easy, or we can do it rough. Either way, I’m going to win. You decide how it’ll be.
But I don’t love you, Daisy, and you can’t begin to know how sorry I am about that because if I could chose anyone in this world to love, it’d be you.
“I don’t love you anymore,Alex.”
“It’s alright sweetheart.I love you enough for the both of us.”
“I love you, Daisy. I love you so much I hurt.”
Book Details (also in my shelves)
Sub Genre: Contemporary Romance, Romantic Comedy
Character Types: Russian Hero, Favorite Heroines
Themes: Love of Animals, Lots of Laughs, Heart/Emotional
Tropes: Arranged Marriage, Grumpy Sunshine, Opposites Attract
Book Perspective
3rd POV
Relationship Conflict vs Plot Conflict
Relationship Conflict
Song This Book Inspires
Wildest Dreams by Taylor Swift
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:
Anna Fields
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
Kiss An Angel is a standalone romantic comedy by Susan Elizabeth Phillips. This is a classic style of a romantic comedy and I had such a blast with this one. I am falling in love with this style of Phillips and how she crafts a romance. Kiss An Angel was recommended to me as I am such a strong fan of the arranged marriage trope so I went into this one with so much excitement. And It was worth it for sure. This book held my heart very early on. It does have some elements in the content of the story that may prove to be challenging for some readers, but I fell so hard for this book and especially the romance that is built within this one here. I really was hooked into Kiss An Angel and was completely different than I expected it to be but it delivered fully and had me laughing so hard all the way through it.
First Line
Daisy Devreauyx had forgotten her bridegroom's name...
Summary
Kiss an Angel begins with the start of a marriage. Alex Markov is a broody man who doesn’t believe he can ever love. But he makes a deal with Daisy’s father and will be married to Daisy for six months. Daisy finds herself in trouble with the law, her father gets her out of it, but in exchange she will have to marry this dark stranger who doesn’t know how to smile or laugh and is strict in standards of behavior. Daisy knows that she has little choice in this marriage, but wants to make the best of the circumstances that have been dealt to her. For Daisy marriage and sex is sacred and she wants to do her best in this marriage….but marriage to Alex won’t be as easy as she would have imagined. Alex manages a circus and Daisy being his wife, she will now have to work alongside him in the workings of the circus. Daisy is shocked that her marriage will start off this way, she and animals do not get along, and she is cursed when it comes to relating to animals but Daisy starts to find her own strength and connections to these animals who win her heart alongside with their master…Alex Markov. But will the ice around Alex’s heart be able to be melted or will Daisy be in this marriage alone….
What I Loved
So many things I adored about this book here. Kiss An Angel is a riot of angst and chemistry and delicious humor that just pulls you more and more into the story. I absolutely adored both of these characters. They are the true epitome of grumpy sunshine. And the circus setting was so fascinating. Especially in the viewpoint from the mid 90’s, this was definitely a different time and it had so many nostalgic vibes and this is why I don’t mind reading older contemporaries because it has a view of a time that is so different and refreshing from today. I really enjoyed the way in which these two banter with each other. They have such different expectations and outlooks on life so seeing them find ways to become compatible was entertaining. We also have the conflicts that rise within this story. It was so heartwrenching to see what this heroine has to go through at times. But we see her journey in finding herself and seeing what she is capable of accomplishing. On the surface, she seems flighty, but she has this will of iron, and seeing that be tested was perfection. I loved what we saw her overcome. What I also admired was how she took her vows so seriously and how she views sex was so refreshing from what we see in so many contemporaries these days. And the way in which she is willing to fight for her marriage is inspiring. Then we have our delectable hero, who is hard as stone. He has suffered abuse as a kid, which has shaped him in the hard-hearted man that he is. He cares for others, but it doesn’t always show. We see how slowly Daisy’s personality and courage wins him over and how he has to face up to the demons of his past and find his own will to open himself up to love.
What I Struggled With
The third act in this book was really tough to swallow. I had a rough time with how the grovel scene was handled. I felt like there should have been more forgiveness portrayed and not stretching out the grovel, as it didn’t need to be stretched out like it was and turned me off a bit. As long as there is change and sincerity in the grovel, it never needs to be stretched out to these proportions.
Narration
Anna Fields portrays this author’s books perfectly! She really brings out the humor just right and also just handles the vibe and tone of the story just right and delivers the classic feel of the story.
Overall View
Kiss An Angel is a stimulating, heart and humor delivered just right, and a story that is packed with relatable characters, charm and class and delivers a captivating arranged marriage romance to delight in! A DELECTABLE GEM!
Favorite Quote(s)
Don’t dare a person who has nothing else left to lose.”
There was a sweetness about her that was as unexpected as it was disturbing because it made her so much more vulnerable than he wanted her to be.
We can do this easy, or we can do it rough. Either way, I’m going to win. You decide how it’ll be.
But I don’t love you, Daisy, and you can’t begin to know how sorry I am about that because if I could chose anyone in this world to love, it’d be you.
“I don’t love you anymore,Alex.”
“It’s alright sweetheart.I love you enough for the both of us.”
“I love you, Daisy. I love you so much I hurt.”
Book Details (also in my shelves)
Sub Genre: Contemporary Romance, Romantic Comedy
Character Types: Russian Hero, Favorite Heroines
Themes: Love of Animals, Lots of Laughs, Heart/Emotional
Tropes: Arranged Marriage, Grumpy Sunshine, Opposites Attract
Book Perspective
3rd POV
Relationship Conflict vs Plot Conflict
Relationship Conflict
Song This Book Inspires
Wildest Dreams by Taylor Swift
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:
Anna Fields
challenging
emotional
funny
medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
A mix
Strong character development:
Complicated
Loveable characters:
Complicated
Diverse cast of characters:
No
Flaws of characters a main focus:
No
This review may contain spoilers, so fair warning, upon reading the 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
Fall Into You is the second installment in the "Morally Gray" series and this book I do think is slightly better than the first book but it wasn't quite a perfect read. It had its pros and cons to how this book is written. I did have some great excitement for this book and if you love morally gray heroes in contemporary romance with an edge, then I highly recommend this one. I wouldn't term this one dark romance though. Its an in-between of contemporary and dark romance subgenres. I did think that the heroine was a bit better than in the previous book so I think she will work for many readers. The hero is a badass and sexy and a endearing alpha male.
First Line
The dark-haired man in the booth is gorgeous, but I can tell with one glance that he's also trouble.
Summary
Cole and Shay first met originally at a high class bar and the chemistry and wit built quickly between them. They share a passionate night together and share witty quips with each other, but they also find a connection to each other. But they both leave knowing they will most likely never see each other again. When Shay learns of a job offer as an office assistant to the CFO of a notable company that would have her set for life for the most prestige of job offers. What she doesn't expect is that her boss will be none other than Cole, the man she had a one night stand with. Cole is appalled that his new assistant is even more forbidden to hiim than before and that he will have to be around her on a regular basis when it took everything he had to leave her after their fling. She is the only woman he can see himself being with longterm, but the way he lives his life is too much risk. But Shay is a intelligent woman that doesn't shy away from a challenge....
What I Loved
Fall Into You I had a fun time with. There is some great laughs that you are guaranteed upon reading this one here. This story is pretty engaging, so I do think if you want a page turner, than you can expect that with Fall Into You. The story has a decent plot for the most part, although considering what the hero is involved in I would have appreciated seeing a bit more focus on the edgier aspects of his side work. The romance itself was interesting to say the least. I didn't really have a big issue with it. I was charmed by the hero and the way that he pines after the heroine. He has a dark tortured feel to his character that makes you become endeared to him pretty quickly. He has a deep connection to Shay but is reserved about taking any action to be with her. The way in which this was implemented was quite well done. I became instantly drawn into the hero's character. The characters on their own are strong characters you can easily stand by.
What I Struggled With
There were a few aspect to this story that I did happen to struggle with. I first want to mention the witty banter. Now I know, everyone loves great banter. I am not saying its not fun or anything, but its a bit too much in this book. This isn't a rom com but it certainly felt like one. And it just felt like a bit too much. It really affected my enjoyment of the book because it would have these pretty funny moments that felt out of place and it would have been nice for the banter to compliment the story not take it over. If this had been better done my rating definitely would have been higher.
Overall View
Fall Into You is a spicy laugh out loud romance that has some edge to it. Its a story of embracing the forbidden and accepting your partner fully and fighting for your love with all you have.....BRILLIANTLY MASTERED
Favorite Quote(s)
“Then everyone who knows you is wrong, Cole. Your heart isn’t cold. It’s warm, and it’s beautiful. You just keep it on ice so nobody can melt it.”
Book Details (also in my shelves)
Sub Genre: Contemporary Romance
Character Types: Alpha Hero, Morally Grey Hero
Themes: Stalking, Pining Hero, Laughs and Giggles, Hot Smexy Times
Tropes: Office Romance, Boss and Employee, Forbidden Love, Fling
Book Perspective
Duo POV
Relationship Conflict vs Plot Conflict
Relationship conflict
Song This Book Inspires
You Put a Spell on Me by Austin Giorgio
Recommendation For Reading Order
You can read as a standlone if needed
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
Fall Into You is the second installment in the "Morally Gray" series and this book I do think is slightly better than the first book but it wasn't quite a perfect read. It had its pros and cons to how this book is written. I did have some great excitement for this book and if you love morally gray heroes in contemporary romance with an edge, then I highly recommend this one. I wouldn't term this one dark romance though. Its an in-between of contemporary and dark romance subgenres. I did think that the heroine was a bit better than in the previous book so I think she will work for many readers. The hero is a badass and sexy and a endearing alpha male.
First Line
The dark-haired man in the booth is gorgeous, but I can tell with one glance that he's also trouble.
Summary
Cole and Shay first met originally at a high class bar and the chemistry and wit built quickly between them. They share a passionate night together and share witty quips with each other, but they also find a connection to each other. But they both leave knowing they will most likely never see each other again. When Shay learns of a job offer as an office assistant to the CFO of a notable company that would have her set for life for the most prestige of job offers. What she doesn't expect is that her boss will be none other than Cole, the man she had a one night stand with. Cole is appalled that his new assistant is even more forbidden to hiim than before and that he will have to be around her on a regular basis when it took everything he had to leave her after their fling. She is the only woman he can see himself being with longterm, but the way he lives his life is too much risk. But Shay is a intelligent woman that doesn't shy away from a challenge....
What I Loved
Fall Into You I had a fun time with. There is some great laughs that you are guaranteed upon reading this one here. This story is pretty engaging, so I do think if you want a page turner, than you can expect that with Fall Into You. The story has a decent plot for the most part, although considering what the hero is involved in I would have appreciated seeing a bit more focus on the edgier aspects of his side work. The romance itself was interesting to say the least. I didn't really have a big issue with it. I was charmed by the hero and the way that he pines after the heroine. He has a dark tortured feel to his character that makes you become endeared to him pretty quickly. He has a deep connection to Shay but is reserved about taking any action to be with her. The way in which this was implemented was quite well done. I became instantly drawn into the hero's character. The characters on their own are strong characters you can easily stand by.
What I Struggled With
There were a few aspect to this story that I did happen to struggle with. I first want to mention the witty banter. Now I know, everyone loves great banter. I am not saying its not fun or anything, but its a bit too much in this book. This isn't a rom com but it certainly felt like one. And it just felt like a bit too much. It really affected my enjoyment of the book because it would have these pretty funny moments that felt out of place and it would have been nice for the banter to compliment the story not take it over. If this had been better done my rating definitely would have been higher.
Overall View
Fall Into You is a spicy laugh out loud romance that has some edge to it. Its a story of embracing the forbidden and accepting your partner fully and fighting for your love with all you have.....BRILLIANTLY MASTERED
Favorite Quote(s)
“Then everyone who knows you is wrong, Cole. Your heart isn’t cold. It’s warm, and it’s beautiful. You just keep it on ice so nobody can melt it.”
Book Details (also in my shelves)
Sub Genre: Contemporary Romance
Character Types: Alpha Hero, Morally Grey Hero
Themes: Stalking, Pining Hero, Laughs and Giggles, Hot Smexy Times
Tropes: Office Romance, Boss and Employee, Forbidden Love, Fling
Book Perspective
Duo POV
Relationship Conflict vs Plot Conflict
Relationship conflict
Song This Book Inspires
You Put a Spell on Me by Austin Giorgio
Recommendation For Reading Order
You can read as a standlone if needed
Steam/Spice Explanations
Steamin' up the room -the sexual content is more explicit in the language and tone, heavier amount of sexual scenes.