Take a photo of a barcode or cover
4.61k reviews by:
loverofromance
challenging
funny
fast-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
Character
Strong character development:
Yes
Loveable characters:
Yes
Diverse cast of characters:
No
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: ✨✨✨✨.5
First Impressions
The Temporary Wife is a story that was teased in the first book "The Wrong Bride" and I was very intrigued to see where the author would take this book and how it would be developed. I honestly went into this one pretty blind and I am happy that I did because this book while not quite as good as the first book, was such a win of a read and I couldn't put it down. I had such a blast with Luca and Valenina and their chemistry was off the charts. Its definitely a story that will intrigue you as its very unique in its set up and has a blend of both arranged marriage and marriage of convenience and once you read the book you will understand how it has both. haha There is such beautiful banter between Luca and Valentina and whenever you get such strong personalities, you just know that both will clash so quickly with each other. Its also such a well developed story that quickly had me all in for this pair.
First Line
There's a bead of swear forming on the forehead of the man sitting in front of me, despite the chilly temperature in my office.
The Main Protagonists
The Hero: Luca
An alpha, commanding, CEO of his family's finance company, and prideful
The Heroine: Valentina
Determined, will fight for those she loves, and is efficient and strong willed.
What I Loved
The Temporary Wife is a story that I loved up and down. The first is the banter between Val and Luca. They are on fire together and from the beginning you know that there is definitely more between them than a love/hate relationship being forced to work together. They have worked together for years, so there is that sense of knowing each other and how the other works. They like to play some tricks on each other but its pretty low key. What I really fell hard for was the pining that they both have with each other. They just don't want to admit what they are feeling for each other. And it isn't until Luca gets engaged, that their feelings for each other actually come to the surface but they don't even admit fully what they have together. It takes some craftiness of their family, for them to truly admit what they are feeling for each other. The heroine especially is in denial. Luca is pretty clear on what he is feeling for the heroine. But Valentina is so determined not to love anyone and Luca is one determined man. He isn't an alpha male for no reason. He stays the course and fights for the woman he loves. And Luca is definitely my favorite hero so far that this author has written.
What I Struggled With
I will be honest in that I think the heroine took matters a bit too far in her resistence against Luca. She also is a ice queen and too stubborn for her own good. I do wish we could have seen her show her vulnerabilities and heart to Luca a bit earlier in the book.
Overall View
The Temporary Wife is a powerful story that held my attention from the very beginning. Its a story of family, fighting for what you believe in and sacrificing it all for love in the end...
Favorite Quote(s)
"You were never a pawn," he says, his voice soft. "You were always my queen. Everyone knew it but you."
The man holding my hand… he isn’t the cold and indifferent Luca I know. I don’t recognize this version of him, and it terrifies me. It terrifies me, because this version of Luca? This is a man I could lose my heart to.
You brighten up my darkest days, and you give me purpose when everything feels hopeless. At the core of all that I am, there is you. Until I breathe my last breath, that will be true.” He takes the ring out of
Book Details (also in my shelves)
Sub Genre: Contemporary Romance
Character Types: Billionaire, Ice Queen
Themes: Book Boyfriend, Angst
Tropes: Enemies to Lovers, Marriage of Convenience, Forced Proximity, Boss and Employee
Book Perspective
Duo POV
Relationship Conflict vs Plot Conflict
Relationship Conflict
Song This Book Inspires
Hopelessly Devoted To You
Recommendation For Reading Order
Yes Read in Order if Possible but can be read as a standalone
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: ✨✨✨✨.5
First Impressions
The Temporary Wife is a story that was teased in the first book "The Wrong Bride" and I was very intrigued to see where the author would take this book and how it would be developed. I honestly went into this one pretty blind and I am happy that I did because this book while not quite as good as the first book, was such a win of a read and I couldn't put it down. I had such a blast with Luca and Valenina and their chemistry was off the charts. Its definitely a story that will intrigue you as its very unique in its set up and has a blend of both arranged marriage and marriage of convenience and once you read the book you will understand how it has both. haha There is such beautiful banter between Luca and Valentina and whenever you get such strong personalities, you just know that both will clash so quickly with each other. Its also such a well developed story that quickly had me all in for this pair.
First Line
There's a bead of swear forming on the forehead of the man sitting in front of me, despite the chilly temperature in my office.
The Main Protagonists
The Hero: Luca
An alpha, commanding, CEO of his family's finance company, and prideful
The Heroine: Valentina
Determined, will fight for those she loves, and is efficient and strong willed.
What I Loved
The Temporary Wife is a story that I loved up and down. The first is the banter between Val and Luca. They are on fire together and from the beginning you know that there is definitely more between them than a love/hate relationship being forced to work together. They have worked together for years, so there is that sense of knowing each other and how the other works. They like to play some tricks on each other but its pretty low key. What I really fell hard for was the pining that they both have with each other. They just don't want to admit what they are feeling for each other. And it isn't until Luca gets engaged, that their feelings for each other actually come to the surface but they don't even admit fully what they have together. It takes some craftiness of their family, for them to truly admit what they are feeling for each other. The heroine especially is in denial. Luca is pretty clear on what he is feeling for the heroine. But Valentina is so determined not to love anyone and Luca is one determined man. He isn't an alpha male for no reason. He stays the course and fights for the woman he loves. And Luca is definitely my favorite hero so far that this author has written.
What I Struggled With
I will be honest in that I think the heroine took matters a bit too far in her resistence against Luca. She also is a ice queen and too stubborn for her own good. I do wish we could have seen her show her vulnerabilities and heart to Luca a bit earlier in the book.
Overall View
The Temporary Wife is a powerful story that held my attention from the very beginning. Its a story of family, fighting for what you believe in and sacrificing it all for love in the end...
Favorite Quote(s)
"You were never a pawn," he says, his voice soft. "You were always my queen. Everyone knew it but you."
The man holding my hand… he isn’t the cold and indifferent Luca I know. I don’t recognize this version of him, and it terrifies me. It terrifies me, because this version of Luca? This is a man I could lose my heart to.
You brighten up my darkest days, and you give me purpose when everything feels hopeless. At the core of all that I am, there is you. Until I breathe my last breath, that will be true.” He takes the ring out of
Book Details (also in my shelves)
Sub Genre: Contemporary Romance
Character Types: Billionaire, Ice Queen
Themes: Book Boyfriend, Angst
Tropes: Enemies to Lovers, Marriage of Convenience, Forced Proximity, Boss and Employee
Book Perspective
Duo POV
Relationship Conflict vs Plot Conflict
Relationship Conflict
Song This Book Inspires
Hopelessly Devoted To You
Recommendation For Reading Order
Yes Read in Order if Possible but can be read as a standalone
challenging
funny
lighthearted
fast-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
A mix
Strong character development:
Yes
Loveable characters:
Yes
Diverse cast of characters:
No
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:📖📖📖📖📖
Narration:🎧🎧🎧🎧
Ending:🧧🧧🧧🧧🧧
Overall View: ✨✨✨✨✨
First Impressions
It Had To Be You is the first book in the "Chicago Stars" series and this book has been on my TBR for probably at least a decade. Its also one of the most popular romances over the years and is on all the romance book lists and I was very curious about this one. This isn't my first book from this author, but I am still very new to this author. I will say that this book had a unique writing style and Susan Elizabeth Phillips is a league all on her own just like Kristen Ashley is. You instantly get thrust into a story that is so different from majority of contemporaries and romantic comedies out there. And Yes I would definitely label this a rom com. So if you love a good rom com, I highly recommend you check this one out. It is just a blast of pure football fun. And I also think that this book is perfect for this time of year as we are entering American football season. This also was written in the 90's so keep in mind for some of the cultural references but there didn't seem to be anything offensive about anything so modern readers should be okay with this one here. There is also a hint of danger and suspense to the plot but its more in the background so I think any romance reader will be fine with how its implemented. And the romance is a very solid one for sure.
First Line
Phoebe Somerville outraged everyone by bringing a French poodle and a Hungarian lover to her father's funeral.
The Main Protagonists
The Hero: Dan Calebow
Dan is a ex professional football player and newest head coach for the Chicago Stars.
The Heroine: Phoebe Somerville
Southern Belle, Feisty and Stubborn, newest owner of the Chicago Stars team
Summary
Our story begins with our heroine, Phoebe Summerville, who is used to people underestimating her and for years she has a persona to make her seem like a flighty bimbo when in truth she is one of the smartest women in society. But when her father dies, and she is mentioned in the will, she is flabbergasted as he has disowned her years previous. So now she has to make a decision that could affect her future. She is now the temporary owner of the Chicago Stars team and if in a year the team doesn't win the championship, then it will go to her stepbrother, a true bully and tormenter of her childhood. Then we have our hero, Dan Calebow, who is the head coach for the Chicago Stars. And when it becomes apparent that Phoebe has zero plans to do anything the owner should be doing and their team is falling apart, he goes to her to convince her to be the owner in true form and fight for her future. Tensions clash between Dan and Phoebe in their first meeting, but there is a connection that forms between them. As Phoebe begins learning everything she can to be the owner and Dan fights for his team, a sizzling romance builds between them. But there is a dangerous stalker, a stepbrother determined to demean Phoebe’s role, and a team struggling mentally. Will Dan and Phoebe find common ground in their relationship and get the true balance to bring success to the stars like they deserve?
What I Loved
There are so many aspects to this story that I fell so hard for. First off, the heroine is awesome. She isn’t my normal type of heroine I am typically drawn to. But boy is she smart and I loved how she manipulates others with her looks and come out on top intellectually. She is so stubborn but fierce for those that she loves. And she is so determined to succeed when she puts a mind to. She is definitely a heroine you can easily get behind. And then we have our hero, who is delectable in his own way. He is prideful and stubborn and a fighter for his team. And does he have a temper. He likes things his own way and Phoebe is so different from him and the ways in which they choose to handle the team matters are completely opposite even when they are both right in their own way. But their banter and angst was so delightful. And when they finally give in and share their vulnerabilities with each other and become more open to each other, is when their relationship thrives. What makes this book is so powerful, is the character and relationship growth with Dan and Phoebe. They are such a incredible match together, and a true power couple when its needed. The ending had me on the edge of my seat and what Dan is willing to do for his lady, just melted my heart. But we also see what Phoebe is capable of in fighting for her dream and her man and it ends in such a raw and epically glorious manner that will bring happy tears to your eyes.
What I Struggled With
Not much, honestly I fell so hard for this story here. And It was true perfection for me.
Narration
I was able to do the audio narration for this book and it was so so well done. I immediately was drawn into this story and I couldn’t get enough of it. They really enhanced the character depth to the story and just made them multi dimensional.
Overall View
This is a story that will win your heart and evoke such laugh and beautiful heart. It’s a sports romance that will bring such clarity and happy vibes from beginning to end.
Book Details (also in my shelves)
Sub Genre: Contemporary Romance, Romantic Comedy
Character Types: Coaching, Southern Belle
Themes: Angst, Lots of Laughs, Sports-Football, Stalker
Tropes: Enemies to Lovers, Forced Proximity, Opposites Attract
Book Perspective
3rd POV
Relationship Conflict vs Plot Conflict
A mix of both
Song This Book Inspires
Unless Its With You by Christina Aguilera
Recommendation For Reading Order
You can read as a standalone
Steam/Spice Explanations
Warmin' by the fire- a medium level of sexual tension, a balance of sexual and emotional intimacy, lighter on the details in the sexual moments.
Narrators:
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: ✨✨✨✨✨
First Impressions
It Had To Be You is the first book in the "Chicago Stars" series and this book has been on my TBR for probably at least a decade. Its also one of the most popular romances over the years and is on all the romance book lists and I was very curious about this one. This isn't my first book from this author, but I am still very new to this author. I will say that this book had a unique writing style and Susan Elizabeth Phillips is a league all on her own just like Kristen Ashley is. You instantly get thrust into a story that is so different from majority of contemporaries and romantic comedies out there. And Yes I would definitely label this a rom com. So if you love a good rom com, I highly recommend you check this one out. It is just a blast of pure football fun. And I also think that this book is perfect for this time of year as we are entering American football season. This also was written in the 90's so keep in mind for some of the cultural references but there didn't seem to be anything offensive about anything so modern readers should be okay with this one here. There is also a hint of danger and suspense to the plot but its more in the background so I think any romance reader will be fine with how its implemented. And the romance is a very solid one for sure.
First Line
Phoebe Somerville outraged everyone by bringing a French poodle and a Hungarian lover to her father's funeral.
The Main Protagonists
The Hero: Dan Calebow
Dan is a ex professional football player and newest head coach for the Chicago Stars.
The Heroine: Phoebe Somerville
Southern Belle, Feisty and Stubborn, newest owner of the Chicago Stars team
Summary
Our story begins with our heroine, Phoebe Summerville, who is used to people underestimating her and for years she has a persona to make her seem like a flighty bimbo when in truth she is one of the smartest women in society. But when her father dies, and she is mentioned in the will, she is flabbergasted as he has disowned her years previous. So now she has to make a decision that could affect her future. She is now the temporary owner of the Chicago Stars team and if in a year the team doesn't win the championship, then it will go to her stepbrother, a true bully and tormenter of her childhood. Then we have our hero, Dan Calebow, who is the head coach for the Chicago Stars. And when it becomes apparent that Phoebe has zero plans to do anything the owner should be doing and their team is falling apart, he goes to her to convince her to be the owner in true form and fight for her future. Tensions clash between Dan and Phoebe in their first meeting, but there is a connection that forms between them. As Phoebe begins learning everything she can to be the owner and Dan fights for his team, a sizzling romance builds between them. But there is a dangerous stalker, a stepbrother determined to demean Phoebe’s role, and a team struggling mentally. Will Dan and Phoebe find common ground in their relationship and get the true balance to bring success to the stars like they deserve?
What I Loved
There are so many aspects to this story that I fell so hard for. First off, the heroine is awesome. She isn’t my normal type of heroine I am typically drawn to. But boy is she smart and I loved how she manipulates others with her looks and come out on top intellectually. She is so stubborn but fierce for those that she loves. And she is so determined to succeed when she puts a mind to. She is definitely a heroine you can easily get behind. And then we have our hero, who is delectable in his own way. He is prideful and stubborn and a fighter for his team. And does he have a temper. He likes things his own way and Phoebe is so different from him and the ways in which they choose to handle the team matters are completely opposite even when they are both right in their own way. But their banter and angst was so delightful. And when they finally give in and share their vulnerabilities with each other and become more open to each other, is when their relationship thrives. What makes this book is so powerful, is the character and relationship growth with Dan and Phoebe. They are such a incredible match together, and a true power couple when its needed. The ending had me on the edge of my seat and what Dan is willing to do for his lady, just melted my heart. But we also see what Phoebe is capable of in fighting for her dream and her man and it ends in such a raw and epically glorious manner that will bring happy tears to your eyes.
What I Struggled With
Not much, honestly I fell so hard for this story here. And It was true perfection for me.
Narration
I was able to do the audio narration for this book and it was so so well done. I immediately was drawn into this story and I couldn’t get enough of it. They really enhanced the character depth to the story and just made them multi dimensional.
Overall View
This is a story that will win your heart and evoke such laugh and beautiful heart. It’s a sports romance that will bring such clarity and happy vibes from beginning to end.
Book Details (also in my shelves)
Sub Genre: Contemporary Romance, Romantic Comedy
Character Types: Coaching, Southern Belle
Themes: Angst, Lots of Laughs, Sports-Football, Stalker
Tropes: Enemies to Lovers, Forced Proximity, Opposites Attract
Book Perspective
3rd POV
Relationship Conflict vs Plot Conflict
A mix of both
Song This Book Inspires
Unless Its With You by Christina Aguilera
Recommendation For Reading Order
You can read as a standalone
Steam/Spice Explanations
Warmin' by the fire- a medium level of sexual tension, a balance of sexual and emotional intimacy, lighter on the details in the sexual moments.
Narrators:
Anna Fields
dark
fast-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
Plot
Strong character development:
Yes
Loveable characters:
Yes
Diverse cast of characters:
No
Flaws of characters a main focus:
No
Series: Ravage MC Bound, Book 8
Length: 7 hrs and 11 mins
Micah and Ensley’s story continues…
Redemption.
Micah thought he was on the right path, making amends with the Ravage MC and taking responsibility for his daughter Remy.
Suddenly everything turned on its head.
Now he along with the brothers of the Ravage MC have a serious task.
Figure out who is responsible for the chaos surrounding them.
Can he do this, keep his woman and child safe and prove to the brothers of the MC that he is ready to be a part of their family?
**This book is not a standalone. You must read Bound by Consequences before this book.”
Length: 7 hrs and 11 mins
Micah and Ensley’s story continues…
Redemption.
Micah thought he was on the right path, making amends with the Ravage MC and taking responsibility for his daughter Remy.
Suddenly everything turned on its head.
Now he along with the brothers of the Ravage MC have a serious task.
Figure out who is responsible for the chaos surrounding them.
Can he do this, keep his woman and child safe and prove to the brothers of the MC that he is ready to be a part of their family?
**This book is not a standalone. You must read Bound by Consequences before this book.”
challenging
dark
fast-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:
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:📖📖📖📖
Narration:🎧🎧🎧
Ending:🧧🧧🧧
Overall View: ✨✨✨
First Impressions
Bound by Consequences is a book that won't be for everyone and I do think that its a miracle that I was able to get through this book. In fact, I came very close to DNFing this book. I really struggle with secret baby and the way that this heroine does it yet I most definitely wasn't a fan. Now I do think this is a story alongside with their companion novel, worth reading if you are a fan of this world and series. Especially in seeing the hero working on redeeming himself with the club. However, I couldn't get fully behind the heroine. I do think the hero didn't deserve what she was going to do to him and deserved a heroine willing to fight for him and believe in him.
First Line
My hands shook in the dark room, and my pulse raced.
The Main Protagonists
The Hero: Micah Tugger
The Heroine: Ensley
Summary
This is a story where Ensley alongside with her sister manage to escape a religious cult with the help of their cousin and are brought to the safety and security of the Ravage MC. Ensley became pregnant when she goes out on the town and meets Micah and they have a one night stand. Ensley had no clue how to find him, but even if she did, she wasn't planning on telling him the truth. But now its been almost three years since she has seen him, and when she is reunited with him, he is the bad boy of the club who has come back to be redeemed by the club. Micah has made so many mistakes over the years due to just wanting to protect his mother in a selfish way. But due to his years in the military, he has learned the value of sacrifice and duty and honor and will do whatever it takes to bring that to the club and be with the only family he has ever known.
What I Loved
Bound by Consequences is a intense filled romance and I will be honest in that this is a very intense read and if you are picky about secret baby tropes being implemented, then I have to warn you that this one might not be for you. I really struggled with this one here, not going to lie. But lets talk about what I loved the most. The first and foremost is the hero and his battle to redeem himself to the club and man I loved him. Micah is a character I have always had a soft spot for and that is more true than ever with this one here. I actually never had huge issues with him and to be honest his mistakes that he makes in the series aren't super focused on. But when he comes back a new man, I absolutely fell so hard for Micah. This new man is going to be one asset to the club, if they will be smart and take a chance on him. I also really enjoyed the little girl of Micah and Ensley. She is so adorable and she won my heart within the first chapter of meeting her. She is definitely going to have Micah wrapped around her little finger.
What I Struggled With
The heroine. Man, I really had a hard time with her character. Now is she the worst heroine for the secret baby aspect? Nope she isn't. And yes, she has been abused in her life and manipulated with the cult that she grew up in. But how she thought Micah was anything like the men she grew up? I have no clue. And that was her reason. She wouldn't let anyone take her daughter away from her, and I got that. But she should have known men like her cousin and the MC wouldn't do that to her, especially Micah wouldn't. And she was content never letting him know. It wasn't until her cousin (who hates Micah by the way) who refused to let her take that route and she would have kept him in the dark.
Narration
This was a decent narration, not the best for the series, but not the worst either.
Overall View
This is a solid installment, and while it had some issues that I wasn't a fan of, worked very well for the most part and very intrigued to see how Micah will be redeemed in the end.
Book Details (also in my shelves)
Sub Genre: Contemporary Romance, Dark Romance
Character Types: Bikers, AlphaMellow, Protector, Single Parent, Military, Nerdy Hero
Themes: Motorcycle Club, Kids, Family Bonds, Secrets
Tropes: Secret Baby, Second Chance, Redemption
Book Perspective
Duo POV
Relationship Conflict vs Plot Conflict
A mix of both
Song This Book Inspires
My Mind & Me by Selena Gomez
Recommendation For Reading Order
You can read as a standalone but do recommend reading Bound by Consequences followed by Bound by Redemption
Narrators:
Tim Paige
Samantha Summers
Book Evaluation:
Plot: 🎞️🎞️🎞️
World Building:🌎🌎🌎🌎
Cover:📔📔📔📔
Hero: 🦸🏻🦸🏻🦸🏻🦸🏻
Heroine:🦸🏻♀️🦸🏻♀️🦸🏻♀️
Intimacy Level: 🔥🔥🔥
Relationship Building: 💒💒💒
Heart & Feels:💞💞💞
Witty/Banter/Reaction of Laughter: 😂😂
Page Turner Level:📖📖📖📖
Narration:🎧🎧🎧
Ending:🧧🧧🧧
Overall View: ✨✨✨
First Impressions
Bound by Consequences is a book that won't be for everyone and I do think that its a miracle that I was able to get through this book. In fact, I came very close to DNFing this book. I really struggle with secret baby and the way that this heroine does it yet I most definitely wasn't a fan. Now I do think this is a story alongside with their companion novel, worth reading if you are a fan of this world and series. Especially in seeing the hero working on redeeming himself with the club. However, I couldn't get fully behind the heroine. I do think the hero didn't deserve what she was going to do to him and deserved a heroine willing to fight for him and believe in him.
First Line
My hands shook in the dark room, and my pulse raced.
The Main Protagonists
The Hero: Micah Tugger
The Heroine: Ensley
Summary
This is a story where Ensley alongside with her sister manage to escape a religious cult with the help of their cousin and are brought to the safety and security of the Ravage MC. Ensley became pregnant when she goes out on the town and meets Micah and they have a one night stand. Ensley had no clue how to find him, but even if she did, she wasn't planning on telling him the truth. But now its been almost three years since she has seen him, and when she is reunited with him, he is the bad boy of the club who has come back to be redeemed by the club. Micah has made so many mistakes over the years due to just wanting to protect his mother in a selfish way. But due to his years in the military, he has learned the value of sacrifice and duty and honor and will do whatever it takes to bring that to the club and be with the only family he has ever known.
What I Loved
Bound by Consequences is a intense filled romance and I will be honest in that this is a very intense read and if you are picky about secret baby tropes being implemented, then I have to warn you that this one might not be for you. I really struggled with this one here, not going to lie. But lets talk about what I loved the most. The first and foremost is the hero and his battle to redeem himself to the club and man I loved him. Micah is a character I have always had a soft spot for and that is more true than ever with this one here. I actually never had huge issues with him and to be honest his mistakes that he makes in the series aren't super focused on. But when he comes back a new man, I absolutely fell so hard for Micah. This new man is going to be one asset to the club, if they will be smart and take a chance on him. I also really enjoyed the little girl of Micah and Ensley. She is so adorable and she won my heart within the first chapter of meeting her. She is definitely going to have Micah wrapped around her little finger.
What I Struggled With
The heroine. Man, I really had a hard time with her character. Now is she the worst heroine for the secret baby aspect? Nope she isn't. And yes, she has been abused in her life and manipulated with the cult that she grew up in. But how she thought Micah was anything like the men she grew up? I have no clue. And that was her reason. She wouldn't let anyone take her daughter away from her, and I got that. But she should have known men like her cousin and the MC wouldn't do that to her, especially Micah wouldn't. And she was content never letting him know. It wasn't until her cousin (who hates Micah by the way) who refused to let her take that route and she would have kept him in the dark.
Narration
This was a decent narration, not the best for the series, but not the worst either.
Overall View
This is a solid installment, and while it had some issues that I wasn't a fan of, worked very well for the most part and very intrigued to see how Micah will be redeemed in the end.
Book Details (also in my shelves)
Sub Genre: Contemporary Romance, Dark Romance
Character Types: Bikers, AlphaMellow, Protector, Single Parent, Military, Nerdy Hero
Themes: Motorcycle Club, Kids, Family Bonds, Secrets
Tropes: Secret Baby, Second Chance, Redemption
Book Perspective
Duo POV
Relationship Conflict vs Plot Conflict
A mix of both
Song This Book Inspires
My Mind & Me by Selena Gomez
Recommendation For Reading Order
You can read as a standalone but do recommend reading Bound by Consequences followed by Bound by Redemption
Narrators:
Tim Paige
Samantha Summers
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: ✨✨✨✨.5
First Impressions
The Catch is the conclusion to this duo series and this is where things really get resolved and both characters have to face up to this reality, and find the true heroes and villains of their story. But we also get one of the most satisfying conclusions that I have ever read in a long while. The Catch actually surprised me in what we see get implemented. I also read this in multiple formats with both ebook and the audiobook. If you love audiobooks, then I can't recommend these books enough to you as it has the best narration duo ever. But The Catch is a story where we get all the reveals, hidden truths and the secrets being played out. We also see how our characters have to really face up to the reality of their situation and all the emotion and heart that is shown in this book is so powerful. The Catch is a story where we see our couple fight for each other and really implement some more honest change about themselves and coming together to honestly fight for each other. They aren't perfect, but they both strive to do what they believe is right. The Catch captivated me heart and soul!
First Line
What did I just do?
Summary
In the conclusion of the Player series, we have our characters having to face up to the truths and deceptions and making some mistakes along the way. Scout makes a mistake, a mistake which she believes is her only path to fighting for Easton. But Easton isn't going to see it that way. When Easton was deceived to sign papers that he was manipulated into signing, and now his girl, the woman who should be fighting for him, takes some action that on the surface seems like a betrayal. And now Easton and Scout have to work hard to get to where they need to be and rebuild the trust and find the truth over the deceptions which also includes the secret that the hero has been keeping from everyone. But as Scout and Easton come together to find their own path, and learn to fight for love and what they have together no matter the stakes that are involved.
What I Loved
There is so much goodness that is delivered in this book. I absolutely adored Catch. And it definitely is so much better than The Player. This is the book where we get to the solid strength of what makes this couple so powerful as a team. These two just work so well together when they are all in and have complete trust. And they have to really work hard to build that trust and keep that trust and love so strong. Its not easy because they are both surrounded by so many secrets from people that they love. And your heart just breaks especially for Easton. Because it also shows what one injury can do to someone's career and how fast it can tank. Easton goes through so much hardship because he has to face up to the truth and reality surrounding his injury and the challenges that I am sure many athletes have to face up to and how your dreams can easily be snatched away. Easton goes through his own journey here. And normally in most romances, its all about the heroine. I found it so refreshing to see that we see it being the hero's journey being the focus. Not that the heroine doesn't have her own journey and how it meshes with Easton's. But the focus is definitely Easton's path. And seeing them fight their way....together...towards their HEA was so satisfying. I just couldn't put this one down and was all in for Easton and Scout finding their own path that works so well for them. And that ENDING----I was sobbing it was so happy and poignant and good and is so epic feeling. The ending is worth just reading these two books for lol
What I Struggled With
There isn't much that I truly struggled with in this one. I do think that these two could have trusted each other just a bit more than they did.
Narration
The Narration is done by Andi Arndt and Joe Arden and I can't tell you what a fabulous job that these two did on this one. Of course, they are always so enjoyable together, but they really packed a punch with this one so much that I wish I had done the first book in audio.
Overall View
The Catch is such a wonderful story that brings together the values of family, trust and intimacy in a way that will dig deep with the reader. The ways it resonates will speak so fervently and packs a punch!
Favorite Quote(s)
Women come and go. Teams are teams. I can still play ball anywhere. But it’s not just some woman. It’s Scout. The one who gets me. And it’s not just a team. It’s the Aces. The one whose blood I’ve bled since before I was born.
Clear Mind...Full Heart
He kisses me with a passion I’ve never felt before. It’s soft and sweet but there’s so much more to it.
It’s a hello.
It’s a goodbye.
It’s an apology.
It’s a declaration.
I see the hurt in Easton's eyes. I hear his voice in my ears. "What would you do Scout?" The answer, Easton? "I'd sacrifice me to save you."
“I want to drown in you tonight, Scout. I want to forget the world, forget what’s going to happen tomorrow, and drown in everything about you, starting now.”
God, I love this woman and her rose-colored glasses.
Even at my worst, she still sees the best in me.
Book Details (also in my shelves)
Sub Genre: Contemporary Romance
Character Types: Athlete, Doctor/Nurse
Themes: Tear Jerker, Lots of Heart/Emotion, Power Couple, Sports-Baseball
Tropes: Forbidden Love
Book Perspective
Duo POV
Relationship Conflict vs Plot Conflict
A Mix of both
Song This Book Inspires
Just the Way You Are by Bruno Mars
Recommendation For Reading Order
Yes you must 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.
Narrators:
Joe Arden
Andi Arndt
Book Evaluation:
Plot: 🎞️🎞️🎞️🎞️🎞️
World Building:🌎🌎🌎🌎🌎
Cover:📔📔📔📔📔
Hero: 🦸🏻🦸🏻🦸🏻🦸🏻🦸🏻
Heroine:🦸🏻♀️🦸🏻♀️🦸🏻♀️🦸🏻♀️
Intimacy Level: 🔥🔥🔥🔥
Relationship Building: 💒💒💒💒💒
Heart & Feels:💞💞💞💞💞
Witty/Banter/Reaction of Laughter: 😂😂😂😂
Page Turner Level:📖📖📖📖📖
Narration:🎧🎧🎧🎧🎧
Ending:🧧🧧🧧🧧🧧
Overall View: ✨✨✨✨.5
First Impressions
The Catch is the conclusion to this duo series and this is where things really get resolved and both characters have to face up to this reality, and find the true heroes and villains of their story. But we also get one of the most satisfying conclusions that I have ever read in a long while. The Catch actually surprised me in what we see get implemented. I also read this in multiple formats with both ebook and the audiobook. If you love audiobooks, then I can't recommend these books enough to you as it has the best narration duo ever. But The Catch is a story where we get all the reveals, hidden truths and the secrets being played out. We also see how our characters have to really face up to the reality of their situation and all the emotion and heart that is shown in this book is so powerful. The Catch is a story where we see our couple fight for each other and really implement some more honest change about themselves and coming together to honestly fight for each other. They aren't perfect, but they both strive to do what they believe is right. The Catch captivated me heart and soul!
First Line
What did I just do?
Summary
In the conclusion of the Player series, we have our characters having to face up to the truths and deceptions and making some mistakes along the way. Scout makes a mistake, a mistake which she believes is her only path to fighting for Easton. But Easton isn't going to see it that way. When Easton was deceived to sign papers that he was manipulated into signing, and now his girl, the woman who should be fighting for him, takes some action that on the surface seems like a betrayal. And now Easton and Scout have to work hard to get to where they need to be and rebuild the trust and find the truth over the deceptions which also includes the secret that the hero has been keeping from everyone. But as Scout and Easton come together to find their own path, and learn to fight for love and what they have together no matter the stakes that are involved.
What I Loved
There is so much goodness that is delivered in this book. I absolutely adored Catch. And it definitely is so much better than The Player. This is the book where we get to the solid strength of what makes this couple so powerful as a team. These two just work so well together when they are all in and have complete trust. And they have to really work hard to build that trust and keep that trust and love so strong. Its not easy because they are both surrounded by so many secrets from people that they love. And your heart just breaks especially for Easton. Because it also shows what one injury can do to someone's career and how fast it can tank. Easton goes through so much hardship because he has to face up to the truth and reality surrounding his injury and the challenges that I am sure many athletes have to face up to and how your dreams can easily be snatched away. Easton goes through his own journey here. And normally in most romances, its all about the heroine. I found it so refreshing to see that we see it being the hero's journey being the focus. Not that the heroine doesn't have her own journey and how it meshes with Easton's. But the focus is definitely Easton's path. And seeing them fight their way....together...towards their HEA was so satisfying. I just couldn't put this one down and was all in for Easton and Scout finding their own path that works so well for them. And that ENDING----I was sobbing it was so happy and poignant and good and is so epic feeling. The ending is worth just reading these two books for lol
What I Struggled With
There isn't much that I truly struggled with in this one. I do think that these two could have trusted each other just a bit more than they did.
Narration
The Narration is done by Andi Arndt and Joe Arden and I can't tell you what a fabulous job that these two did on this one. Of course, they are always so enjoyable together, but they really packed a punch with this one so much that I wish I had done the first book in audio.
Overall View
The Catch is such a wonderful story that brings together the values of family, trust and intimacy in a way that will dig deep with the reader. The ways it resonates will speak so fervently and packs a punch!
Favorite Quote(s)
Women come and go. Teams are teams. I can still play ball anywhere. But it’s not just some woman. It’s Scout. The one who gets me. And it’s not just a team. It’s the Aces. The one whose blood I’ve bled since before I was born.
Clear Mind...Full Heart
He kisses me with a passion I’ve never felt before. It’s soft and sweet but there’s so much more to it.
It’s a hello.
It’s a goodbye.
It’s an apology.
It’s a declaration.
I see the hurt in Easton's eyes. I hear his voice in my ears. "What would you do Scout?" The answer, Easton? "I'd sacrifice me to save you."
“I want to drown in you tonight, Scout. I want to forget the world, forget what’s going to happen tomorrow, and drown in everything about you, starting now.”
God, I love this woman and her rose-colored glasses.
Even at my worst, she still sees the best in me.
Book Details (also in my shelves)
Sub Genre: Contemporary Romance
Character Types: Athlete, Doctor/Nurse
Themes: Tear Jerker, Lots of Heart/Emotion, Power Couple, Sports-Baseball
Tropes: Forbidden Love
Book Perspective
Duo POV
Relationship Conflict vs Plot Conflict
A Mix of both
Song This Book Inspires
Just the Way You Are by Bruno Mars
Recommendation For Reading Order
Yes you must 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.
Narrators:
Joe Arden
Andi Arndt
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:📖📖📖📖
Ending:🧧🧧🧧
Overall View: ✨✨✨✨
First Impressions
The Player is the first book of the two book series by K. Bromberg that features one couple. And The Player is the first book in their journey together. I was actually very excited for this because I loved that it featured baseball, and lately I have most definitely been in my sports reading era and I am loving everything about it. I do think if you love Baseball, then this is a duo series that you need to read or if you want more baseball romance, then I highly recommend this to you. I have been a fan of K. Bromberg for years. She is such a delight to read and really adds much more emotional depth to her stories than necessarily you see from other authors that write this writing style of contemporary romance. There is a powerful chemistry that just is built so well in the story. The Player is the story that establishes the foundation of their relationship, which will give them strength to get through what they face in the companion novel.
First Line
The rush hits me
The Main Protagonists
The Hero: Easton Wylder
A professional MLB player and is considered one of the best players of the league. He lives for baseball and living up to his father's record. A bit of a jokester and loves to play around.
The Heroine: Scout Dalton
Just like her father, she is a physical therapist for sports players and determined to win the contract that her father has fought his life for. Her father is dying and determined to get this for him before he is gone.
Summary
Easton Wylder has one passion and that is baseball. He grew up with a father who pushed him into baseball, but Easton found his heart with the sport. But he has always struggled trying to live up to his fathers dream for him. His parents are divorced and has always felt in the middle of loving each of them and the struggle that comes with that. When he injures his shoulder, he signed papers where he is on a strict timeline to heal his shoulder. And he needs to get back in the game or risk losing everything he has fought for. Then we have the infamous phsyical therapist, Doc Dalton, who sticks him with his daught to oversee his recovery. Scout Dalton is just as talented as her father, and with a dream contract on the line, she knows that she needs to get a guarantee with the team that would fulfill her fathers dream. She has worked hard to live up to her fathers expectation for her and will do whatever it takes to do that. When she meets Easton, sparks fly between there. There is a strong chemistry, but any intimate relationship is more forbidden for them. But Easton is a fighter for what and whom he wants, and Scout is the woman he wants and will fight for her...
What I Loved
So many aspects to this story was pure deliciousness. I loved everything about this one and while it wasn't a perfect book, because I despise these type of cliffhangers, but at the end of the day, this is how most authors just write them lol However, K. Bromberg, really handled the conflict that crops up at the end very well and it wasn't quite what I expected it to be. So expect to have a story that will deliver to you. The bond that builds between Scout and Easton is so angsty and addicting and will have you laughing all over the place. Their banter entertains completely. They both are so strong in their own personalities, but are a bit different in how they go after each other. They each have their own goals but seeing them clash and seeing a relationship put a kink in their plans was adventurous for them. You really get behind both characters though. The author really set up their drive and personal goals and background very very well. We also get some interference from both fathers of each character. At first, you aren't sure which parent will actually be the good parent and the other the bad parent and you won't find out until "The Catch". The author handled this build up very very well. It won't be what you expect once you read "The Player". What I also enjoyed was how both Easton and Scout have a passion for the sport. Scout has a love for baseball as a sport as she played the sport when she was younger and I can't tell you how excited it made me to see a heroine that loves sports. Its definitely a characteristic we should see more in romance. But be prepared for a cliffhanger on this one but there is a most definite HEA in "The Catch" so get ready to sit back with your hot dogs and soda for that one.
What I Struggled With
The ending. I will never be a fan of cliffhangers. Its just not a aspect I will enjoy even if I have the companion book ready to go. And I also feel like the motivations for the heroine wasn't handled the best that it could have been. I struggled at time with Scout because Easton is willing to give up everything for her and give so much more for the relationship than Scout is willing to in this installment anyway.
Overall View
The Player was a magnificent, all consumming sports romance that delivers plentiful laughs, spice and great literal depth to the story.
Favorite Quote(s)
The nets of the backstop fade away as I stare at the place where I’ve lived my life—between the chalk lines and behind home plate. It’s fucking beautiful. A blessing and a curse. My pleasure and my pain. The only thing I’ve ever known. The only thing I’ve ever wanted to do.
“Make me feel, Easton. I don’t need sweet. I need real. I need to know you’re here. I need to know you want me. I need to forget. But more than anything, I need you.”
And when he lowers his chin and meets my eyes, everything I was fighting against the past few months dissipates. I surrender. Heart. Body. Mind. Fear.
"The worst part about telling yourself lies is you know the real truth."
Book Details (also in my shelves)
Sub Genre: Contemporary Romance
Character Types: Athlete, Doctor/Nurse
Themes: Sports-Baseball, Witty Banter
Tropes: Forced Proximity, Forbidden Love
Book Perspective
Duo POV
Relationship Conflict vs Plot Conflict
A mix of both
Song This Book Inspires
Rock and a Hard Place by Bailey Zimmerman
Recommendation For Reading Order
Yes read this series in order
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
The Player is the first book of the two book series by K. Bromberg that features one couple. And The Player is the first book in their journey together. I was actually very excited for this because I loved that it featured baseball, and lately I have most definitely been in my sports reading era and I am loving everything about it. I do think if you love Baseball, then this is a duo series that you need to read or if you want more baseball romance, then I highly recommend this to you. I have been a fan of K. Bromberg for years. She is such a delight to read and really adds much more emotional depth to her stories than necessarily you see from other authors that write this writing style of contemporary romance. There is a powerful chemistry that just is built so well in the story. The Player is the story that establishes the foundation of their relationship, which will give them strength to get through what they face in the companion novel.
First Line
The rush hits me
The Main Protagonists
The Hero: Easton Wylder
A professional MLB player and is considered one of the best players of the league. He lives for baseball and living up to his father's record. A bit of a jokester and loves to play around.
The Heroine: Scout Dalton
Just like her father, she is a physical therapist for sports players and determined to win the contract that her father has fought his life for. Her father is dying and determined to get this for him before he is gone.
Summary
Easton Wylder has one passion and that is baseball. He grew up with a father who pushed him into baseball, but Easton found his heart with the sport. But he has always struggled trying to live up to his fathers dream for him. His parents are divorced and has always felt in the middle of loving each of them and the struggle that comes with that. When he injures his shoulder, he signed papers where he is on a strict timeline to heal his shoulder. And he needs to get back in the game or risk losing everything he has fought for. Then we have the infamous phsyical therapist, Doc Dalton, who sticks him with his daught to oversee his recovery. Scout Dalton is just as talented as her father, and with a dream contract on the line, she knows that she needs to get a guarantee with the team that would fulfill her fathers dream. She has worked hard to live up to her fathers expectation for her and will do whatever it takes to do that. When she meets Easton, sparks fly between there. There is a strong chemistry, but any intimate relationship is more forbidden for them. But Easton is a fighter for what and whom he wants, and Scout is the woman he wants and will fight for her...
What I Loved
So many aspects to this story was pure deliciousness. I loved everything about this one and while it wasn't a perfect book, because I despise these type of cliffhangers, but at the end of the day, this is how most authors just write them lol However, K. Bromberg, really handled the conflict that crops up at the end very well and it wasn't quite what I expected it to be. So expect to have a story that will deliver to you. The bond that builds between Scout and Easton is so angsty and addicting and will have you laughing all over the place. Their banter entertains completely. They both are so strong in their own personalities, but are a bit different in how they go after each other. They each have their own goals but seeing them clash and seeing a relationship put a kink in their plans was adventurous for them. You really get behind both characters though. The author really set up their drive and personal goals and background very very well. We also get some interference from both fathers of each character. At first, you aren't sure which parent will actually be the good parent and the other the bad parent and you won't find out until "The Catch". The author handled this build up very very well. It won't be what you expect once you read "The Player". What I also enjoyed was how both Easton and Scout have a passion for the sport. Scout has a love for baseball as a sport as she played the sport when she was younger and I can't tell you how excited it made me to see a heroine that loves sports. Its definitely a characteristic we should see more in romance. But be prepared for a cliffhanger on this one but there is a most definite HEA in "The Catch" so get ready to sit back with your hot dogs and soda for that one.
What I Struggled With
The ending. I will never be a fan of cliffhangers. Its just not a aspect I will enjoy even if I have the companion book ready to go. And I also feel like the motivations for the heroine wasn't handled the best that it could have been. I struggled at time with Scout because Easton is willing to give up everything for her and give so much more for the relationship than Scout is willing to in this installment anyway.
Overall View
The Player was a magnificent, all consumming sports romance that delivers plentiful laughs, spice and great literal depth to the story.
Favorite Quote(s)
The nets of the backstop fade away as I stare at the place where I’ve lived my life—between the chalk lines and behind home plate. It’s fucking beautiful. A blessing and a curse. My pleasure and my pain. The only thing I’ve ever known. The only thing I’ve ever wanted to do.
“Make me feel, Easton. I don’t need sweet. I need real. I need to know you’re here. I need to know you want me. I need to forget. But more than anything, I need you.”
And when he lowers his chin and meets my eyes, everything I was fighting against the past few months dissipates. I surrender. Heart. Body. Mind. Fear.
"The worst part about telling yourself lies is you know the real truth."
Book Details (also in my shelves)
Sub Genre: Contemporary Romance
Character Types: Athlete, Doctor/Nurse
Themes: Sports-Baseball, Witty Banter
Tropes: Forced Proximity, Forbidden Love
Book Perspective
Duo POV
Relationship Conflict vs Plot Conflict
A mix of both
Song This Book Inspires
Rock and a Hard Place by Bailey Zimmerman
Recommendation For Reading Order
Yes read this series in order
adventurous
challenging
emotional
funny
hopeful
inspiring
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
The Texan's Wager is the first book in the Wife's Lottery series by Jodi Thomas. This was also my very first Jodi Thomas book and I was beyond impressed with this. I was first drawn to this book years ago when seeing it on all of the top romance booklists and I was intrigued on why that was. I finally took the initiative and buddy read this with Mina @ Mina Reads and it was a blast of a good time. I was so highly entertained by this one and I couldn't put it down. If you are looking for witty writing that is highly engaging in a historical read, than this is a book for you especially if you are drawn to the forced marriage type of situation and a beta tortured hero. I was so fascinated by the set up of the story and for the most part it was execute very well and the author really engages you very easily. This is a quick and fast read that has such heart and characters that just wrench your heart in such a relative human way.
First Line
Bailee Grace Moore watches as the last few stragglers of the Rolan wagon train disappeared into the fiery sunset.
The Main Protagonists
The Hero: Carter McKoy
Parents murdered at a young age, was abused living in different homes, until he found his place at his parents farm learning to make his place a fortress and building a life for him away from the human world and is more than content.
The Heroine: Bailee Moore
Bailee having been kicked out of her fathers home, abandoned by a previous fiancee and forced to go out west on a wagon train, is a strong go getter who is independent but has a soft caring heart.
Summary
Bailee alongside with her two friends Lucy and Sarah are abandoned by their wagon train near the Texas border, so they make the trek through Texas, hoping that they find a town before they starve to death. They are discovered by a lone man outside of the town "Cedar Point" and this is where they are attacked and in self defense they are forced to kill the man that attacked them. They then find the town Cedar Point and confess everything to the sheriff. The sheriff knows that these women aren't killers, but he also can't let it just be hidden under the rug. So he barters them off as brides to pay the fine of the crime. Bailee is bartered off to Carter McKoy who is the town's reject. He doesn't speak much and isn't used to human interaction. When he finds himself with a wife, he has no clue what to do with her. He has had only the barest interaction with very few people from town, he doesn't speak much and is haunted by the demons of his past and losing his parents at such a young age. But he knows that having a "wife" is the normal way of things even if he is at a loss how to deal with her after living alone for so long. But Bailee is determined to make this marriage work and find a common ground with her new quiet husband who is making her fall hard for him in his strong resilient ways...
What I Loved
The Texan's Wager was such a delightful book! I had so much fun with this one. Literally I was laughing all over the place. The writing style from this author is super witty just in the way its written and it just captivated me immediately and I was so drawn into these characters. I absolutely loved all of these women that become friends and very quickly. They all have very different personalities but Bailee was one I probably related with the most. She is strong and independent but also wants love in her life and a true family. Then we have Carter, who is a hero that held my heart. I am normally not drawn to the beta heroes, but Carter, he was so delicious. He is broody, quiet, and so tormented. When you see as he goes through the motions, what motivates him and how he gets treated by others in the town, my heart fell so hard for him. But if you are a fan of (Archer's Voice by Mia Sheridan I guarantee you will die for this hero).
These two couldn't be more opposites if they tried. haha And Carter doesn't talk very much so their beginning is definitely tough and it happens very slowly their connection. But once they really find their common ground with each other and start communicating with each other in some very unique ways they also click on every level and seeing this connection was so captivating. I was so drawn in emotionally on the bond that they create for each other. The sweet way that they can sense what the other needs and fill that need. The moments in which they will protect each other and fight for what the other needs and protect those in need, just melts the heart. If you are looking for a solid historical western that will steal your heart, then look no further than "The Texan's Wager".
What I Struggled With
So there were a few aspects to this story I wasn't a huge fan of. The plot in the second half of the story was truly unnecessary. It couldn't have been way shortened down the danger aspects to the story because having it drawn out so much really was a detriment to the romance as a whole. Because just when these two are clicking and connecting, is when the danger side of the plot is introduced and it really took away for their story. This couple deserved more time to flesh out their relationship more and really learn each other. Also if you are expecting high spice, don't with this one. There is like one bedroom scene although the intimacy aspects are done very well and they each have a deep connection to each other. However, I feel like their romance was ruined by the plot of the story. And there were a few plot holes on little details that might throw some readers off as well
Overall View
The Texan's Wager is a emotionally powerful story that will grab your attention and take your breath away. Its a story to tug at your heartstrings and display deep poignant emotion to captivate from beginning to end.
Favorite Quote(s)
“Oh, not that the saloon girls ain’t nice and all, but a good woman does something to a man. She makes him want to be better than he knows he is by nature.”
“I’m twenty-five, so I guess that makes me an old maid. I’ve no money and only a few things in my wagon to bring to a marriage. But if you’re willing, I’m willing to do what you wrote.” She lifted the paper sack where Carter had scribbled simply, “Be my wife, all my life.”
She kissed him as if there would be no tomorrow, and he kissed her back as if he believed they’d be together forever.
He needed her. Far down in the very core of his being, he needed her ... and her world crumbled about her when she realized he hated himself for it.
Book Details (also in my shelves)
Sub Genre: Historical Romance, American West
Character Types: Beta Hero, Tortured Hero
Themes: Small Town, Disability, Female Friendships, Wager, Western
Tropes: Arranged Marriage/Marriage of Convenience, Opposites Attract
Book Perspective
3rd POV
Relationship Conflict vs Plot Conflict
Plot Conflict is more present
Song This Book Inspires
Don't Be Afraid by Air Supply
Recommendation For Reading Order
Can be read as a standalone
Steam/Spice Explanations
Warmin' by the fire- a medium level of sexual tension, a balance of sexual and emotional intimacy, lighter on the details in the sexual moments.
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
The Texan's Wager is the first book in the Wife's Lottery series by Jodi Thomas. This was also my very first Jodi Thomas book and I was beyond impressed with this. I was first drawn to this book years ago when seeing it on all of the top romance booklists and I was intrigued on why that was. I finally took the initiative and buddy read this with Mina @ Mina Reads and it was a blast of a good time. I was so highly entertained by this one and I couldn't put it down. If you are looking for witty writing that is highly engaging in a historical read, than this is a book for you especially if you are drawn to the forced marriage type of situation and a beta tortured hero. I was so fascinated by the set up of the story and for the most part it was execute very well and the author really engages you very easily. This is a quick and fast read that has such heart and characters that just wrench your heart in such a relative human way.
First Line
Bailee Grace Moore watches as the last few stragglers of the Rolan wagon train disappeared into the fiery sunset.
The Main Protagonists
The Hero: Carter McKoy
Parents murdered at a young age, was abused living in different homes, until he found his place at his parents farm learning to make his place a fortress and building a life for him away from the human world and is more than content.
The Heroine: Bailee Moore
Bailee having been kicked out of her fathers home, abandoned by a previous fiancee and forced to go out west on a wagon train, is a strong go getter who is independent but has a soft caring heart.
Summary
Bailee alongside with her two friends Lucy and Sarah are abandoned by their wagon train near the Texas border, so they make the trek through Texas, hoping that they find a town before they starve to death. They are discovered by a lone man outside of the town "Cedar Point" and this is where they are attacked and in self defense they are forced to kill the man that attacked them. They then find the town Cedar Point and confess everything to the sheriff. The sheriff knows that these women aren't killers, but he also can't let it just be hidden under the rug. So he barters them off as brides to pay the fine of the crime. Bailee is bartered off to Carter McKoy who is the town's reject. He doesn't speak much and isn't used to human interaction. When he finds himself with a wife, he has no clue what to do with her. He has had only the barest interaction with very few people from town, he doesn't speak much and is haunted by the demons of his past and losing his parents at such a young age. But he knows that having a "wife" is the normal way of things even if he is at a loss how to deal with her after living alone for so long. But Bailee is determined to make this marriage work and find a common ground with her new quiet husband who is making her fall hard for him in his strong resilient ways...
What I Loved
The Texan's Wager was such a delightful book! I had so much fun with this one. Literally I was laughing all over the place. The writing style from this author is super witty just in the way its written and it just captivated me immediately and I was so drawn into these characters. I absolutely loved all of these women that become friends and very quickly. They all have very different personalities but Bailee was one I probably related with the most. She is strong and independent but also wants love in her life and a true family. Then we have Carter, who is a hero that held my heart. I am normally not drawn to the beta heroes, but Carter, he was so delicious. He is broody, quiet, and so tormented. When you see as he goes through the motions, what motivates him and how he gets treated by others in the town, my heart fell so hard for him. But if you are a fan of (Archer's Voice by Mia Sheridan I guarantee you will die for this hero).
These two couldn't be more opposites if they tried. haha And Carter doesn't talk very much so their beginning is definitely tough and it happens very slowly their connection. But once they really find their common ground with each other and start communicating with each other in some very unique ways they also click on every level and seeing this connection was so captivating. I was so drawn in emotionally on the bond that they create for each other. The sweet way that they can sense what the other needs and fill that need. The moments in which they will protect each other and fight for what the other needs and protect those in need, just melts the heart. If you are looking for a solid historical western that will steal your heart, then look no further than "The Texan's Wager".
What I Struggled With
So there were a few aspects to this story I wasn't a huge fan of. The plot in the second half of the story was truly unnecessary. It couldn't have been way shortened down the danger aspects to the story because having it drawn out so much really was a detriment to the romance as a whole. Because just when these two are clicking and connecting, is when the danger side of the plot is introduced and it really took away for their story. This couple deserved more time to flesh out their relationship more and really learn each other. Also if you are expecting high spice, don't with this one. There is like one bedroom scene although the intimacy aspects are done very well and they each have a deep connection to each other. However, I feel like their romance was ruined by the plot of the story. And there were a few plot holes on little details that might throw some readers off as well
Overall View
The Texan's Wager is a emotionally powerful story that will grab your attention and take your breath away. Its a story to tug at your heartstrings and display deep poignant emotion to captivate from beginning to end.
Favorite Quote(s)
“Oh, not that the saloon girls ain’t nice and all, but a good woman does something to a man. She makes him want to be better than he knows he is by nature.”
“I’m twenty-five, so I guess that makes me an old maid. I’ve no money and only a few things in my wagon to bring to a marriage. But if you’re willing, I’m willing to do what you wrote.” She lifted the paper sack where Carter had scribbled simply, “Be my wife, all my life.”
She kissed him as if there would be no tomorrow, and he kissed her back as if he believed they’d be together forever.
He needed her. Far down in the very core of his being, he needed her ... and her world crumbled about her when she realized he hated himself for it.
Book Details (also in my shelves)
Sub Genre: Historical Romance, American West
Character Types: Beta Hero, Tortured Hero
Themes: Small Town, Disability, Female Friendships, Wager, Western
Tropes: Arranged Marriage/Marriage of Convenience, Opposites Attract
Book Perspective
3rd POV
Relationship Conflict vs Plot Conflict
Plot Conflict is more present
Song This Book Inspires
Don't Be Afraid by Air Supply
Recommendation For Reading Order
Can be read as a standalone
Steam/Spice Explanations
Warmin' by the fire- a medium level of sexual tension, a balance of sexual and emotional intimacy, lighter on the details in the sexual moments.
I am marking this one as a DNF. I just really struggled with this one and it also wasn't what I was expecting it to be. This one just wasn't clicking for me and I have been trying to read this one for over a week and its just not clicking for me. So I am passing on this one unfortunately. I might try this later in ebook sometime. I don't think the narration is working for me very well, not as much as I expected it to be.
challenging
emotional
funny
inspiring
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:
Yes
This review may contain spoilers, so fair warning, upon reading the review.
Book Evaluation:
Plot: 🎞️🎞️🎞️🎞️🎞️
World Building:🌎🌎🌎🌎🌎
Cover:📔📔📔📔📔
Callum: 🦸🏻🦸🏻🦸🏻🦸🏻🦸🏻
Elijah: 🦸🏻🦸🏻🦸🏻🦸🏻🦸🏻
Intimacy Level: 🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥
Relationship Building: 💒💒💒💒💒
Heart & Feels:💞💞💞💞💞
Witty/Banter/Reaction of Laughter: 😂😂😂😂😂
Page Turner Level:📖📖📖📖📖
Ending:🧧🧧🧧🧧🧧
Overall View: ✨✨✨✨✨
First Impressions
Throttled is a standalone but is connection to the Drive Fast duet. This story features the brother of the heroine from Wrecked and Ruined by Veronica West. When the author sent me an ARC, I was more than excited for this one here. I absolutely adored the “Drive Fast Duet” and I just knew that this book would be just as good, and I will be honest in that I think this is the BEST work this author has delivered. Of Course, she is a debut author and still very new so if you aren’t aware of her yet, no worries on that, but if you love contemporary romance with high spice, and enjoy seeing a sport being tackled that isn’t the norm, than I highly recommend this one to you. And just overlooking this book in general as a MM romance, it was utterly delightful. In fact, one of my favorite MM romances I have read in a long time and I have had the pleasure of reading MM romance this year quite a bit of it, and Throttled surely packed a punch in this one. Throttled is a story that tackles a “gay for you” theme here, as one of our main characters is still in the closet, so it definitely will be a story that will have a theme to it. I do recommend if you like reading books in print, get these in print. They are gorgeous editions and I will be grabbing the print copies because they are so well done. We also get this book on the same timeline as the “Drive Fast” duet, so you can read either of these stories as standalones if you would like to.
First Line
I wince at the light pouring through the windows hit my cracked eyes.
Summary
Callum Davis is the bad boy of the NASCAR, he has built his image in being the bad boy of the professional racers. His father died when he was young and he has worked hard to prove himself. But after years of being emotionally abused and manipulated by his mother, he is at the end of his rope, literally until sunshine Elijah Hayes becomes his mechanic and his world will tilt on his axis. Elijah knows cars, and having been raised in a family that live and breathe racing, he can put a car back together with his eyes closed and he is a full fledged gay man and very proud of it. Its still new to the NASCAR world and so its taking some adjustment, but he isn’t ashamed of his sexuality. But when he meets Callum, he is determined to blow his broody exterior to bits and get to the man beneath. He can see the pain and the turmoil that Cal deals with on a regular basis, and even though Eli is more lighthearted in nature, he knows he needs to be something more for this man. And as Eli and Cal delve in secret and start to unleash their feelings for each other, their road isn’t going to be easy, and will be packed with plenty of sharp turns that will challenge them on a deep level…..but they will find a epic love worth fighting for…
What I Loved
Throttled is a story I was easily captivated by and immediately I was so drawn into their romance. I couldn’t let go of Callum and Elijah and I just wanted more of these two. I honestly couldn’t get enough in the way that I would need to force myself to take breaks to eat and things essential like that haha But you know a book is really dang good when you are neglecting sustenance. There is something about Veronica West’s writing style that just draws me so easily into her stories and I find such compelling relationships that I can’t resist but immersing myself in them. In Throttled we have a story that is packed with so much chemistry, it could set the world on fire. Immediately we see how drawn they are together but Elijah has one fight on his hands. Callum isn’t open to what he is feeling and has such thick walls built and the reason behind these walls are very valid. But Eli is able to break down these walls so easily and get to the heart of what makes Cal tick and what he needs. There is so much heart that Callum has but he doesn’t let himself be who he needs to be as he tries to live up to the pressure his mother especially places on his shoulders.
We see what ways that Eli is able to use his charm to work with Callum on and off the racetrack to make him believe in himself and what they can be together. But the fight for it is really tough and my heart just broke for both Callum and Elijah. Because they have such opposite personalities and they are fighting such a big battle to find a relationship that will work for both of them. Callum is much more resistant though as he is still in the closet and he knows what a battle he will have to face with his mother. But with the help of Elijah, his family, Callum starts to believe in having faith in what they have together. But his mother is one piece of work and she really adds such conflict to the story. I really despised this woman. She is so abusive to Callum and I couldn’t believe what she would do to her own son. The romance definitely has its battles, because Elijah is having to work so hard to tear down the walls that Callum has and my heart just broke for Elijah. But his patience and commanding presence that he delivers when its needed is the driving force to get to the heart and soul of Callum. The chemistry was delicious and all the feels in this book just delivered all the way for me. I wanted to consume this story and more. I honestly can’t wait to see what this author delivers next for us.
What I Struggled With
Not me to be honest. This book was everything I could have hoped for and more.
Overall View
Throttled is a story that will challenge you in ways you will want to be on the cheer squad for this pair and see the victory lap that both deserve towards their happily ever afters. It’s a true racing gem that packs a poignant punch where you least expect it!
Favorite Quote(s)
Something inside him calls to me like a ship in the night and I’m his lighthouse, beckoning him to come home.
This is the first time I’ve experienced something like it. this pull towards him–a man. It’s unknown and annoying but the more I spend time with him, the more I want it.
Elijah Hayes has wrecked me for any other—woman or man.
“I’ll always protect you, Eli. You’re too good for this world and I won’t let them tear you down.”
I would die for you, but I need you to live for me. And that’s exactly what I will do. I will live for him, race for him and win for him because even if we can’t be together, he’s changed my life forever. I will show him that our time together made a difference and that living for him is the best decision I could ever make.
Callum is a deeply rooted cancer that has burrowed under my skin and I don’t see him leaving my blood anytime soon.
Book Details (also in my shelves)
Sub Genre: Contemporary Romance
Character Types: Mechanic, Athlete
Themes: Sports-Racing, Laughs/Giggles, Hot Smexy Times, Gay For You
Tropes: Grumpy Sunshine, Opposites Attract, Forced Proximity
Book Perspective
Duo POV
Relationship Conflict vs Plot Conflict
A mix of both
Song This Book Inspires
Should I Stay by Gabrielle
Recommendation For Reading 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:📔📔📔📔📔
Callum: 🦸🏻🦸🏻🦸🏻🦸🏻🦸🏻
Elijah: 🦸🏻🦸🏻🦸🏻🦸🏻🦸🏻
Intimacy Level: 🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥
Relationship Building: 💒💒💒💒💒
Heart & Feels:💞💞💞💞💞
Witty/Banter/Reaction of Laughter: 😂😂😂😂😂
Page Turner Level:📖📖📖📖📖
Ending:🧧🧧🧧🧧🧧
Overall View: ✨✨✨✨✨
First Impressions
Throttled is a standalone but is connection to the Drive Fast duet. This story features the brother of the heroine from Wrecked and Ruined by Veronica West. When the author sent me an ARC, I was more than excited for this one here. I absolutely adored the “Drive Fast Duet” and I just knew that this book would be just as good, and I will be honest in that I think this is the BEST work this author has delivered. Of Course, she is a debut author and still very new so if you aren’t aware of her yet, no worries on that, but if you love contemporary romance with high spice, and enjoy seeing a sport being tackled that isn’t the norm, than I highly recommend this one to you. And just overlooking this book in general as a MM romance, it was utterly delightful. In fact, one of my favorite MM romances I have read in a long time and I have had the pleasure of reading MM romance this year quite a bit of it, and Throttled surely packed a punch in this one. Throttled is a story that tackles a “gay for you” theme here, as one of our main characters is still in the closet, so it definitely will be a story that will have a theme to it. I do recommend if you like reading books in print, get these in print. They are gorgeous editions and I will be grabbing the print copies because they are so well done. We also get this book on the same timeline as the “Drive Fast” duet, so you can read either of these stories as standalones if you would like to.
First Line
I wince at the light pouring through the windows hit my cracked eyes.
Summary
Callum Davis is the bad boy of the NASCAR, he has built his image in being the bad boy of the professional racers. His father died when he was young and he has worked hard to prove himself. But after years of being emotionally abused and manipulated by his mother, he is at the end of his rope, literally until sunshine Elijah Hayes becomes his mechanic and his world will tilt on his axis. Elijah knows cars, and having been raised in a family that live and breathe racing, he can put a car back together with his eyes closed and he is a full fledged gay man and very proud of it. Its still new to the NASCAR world and so its taking some adjustment, but he isn’t ashamed of his sexuality. But when he meets Callum, he is determined to blow his broody exterior to bits and get to the man beneath. He can see the pain and the turmoil that Cal deals with on a regular basis, and even though Eli is more lighthearted in nature, he knows he needs to be something more for this man. And as Eli and Cal delve in secret and start to unleash their feelings for each other, their road isn’t going to be easy, and will be packed with plenty of sharp turns that will challenge them on a deep level…..but they will find a epic love worth fighting for…
What I Loved
Throttled is a story I was easily captivated by and immediately I was so drawn into their romance. I couldn’t let go of Callum and Elijah and I just wanted more of these two. I honestly couldn’t get enough in the way that I would need to force myself to take breaks to eat and things essential like that haha But you know a book is really dang good when you are neglecting sustenance. There is something about Veronica West’s writing style that just draws me so easily into her stories and I find such compelling relationships that I can’t resist but immersing myself in them. In Throttled we have a story that is packed with so much chemistry, it could set the world on fire. Immediately we see how drawn they are together but Elijah has one fight on his hands. Callum isn’t open to what he is feeling and has such thick walls built and the reason behind these walls are very valid. But Eli is able to break down these walls so easily and get to the heart of what makes Cal tick and what he needs. There is so much heart that Callum has but he doesn’t let himself be who he needs to be as he tries to live up to the pressure his mother especially places on his shoulders.
We see what ways that Eli is able to use his charm to work with Callum on and off the racetrack to make him believe in himself and what they can be together. But the fight for it is really tough and my heart just broke for both Callum and Elijah. Because they have such opposite personalities and they are fighting such a big battle to find a relationship that will work for both of them. Callum is much more resistant though as he is still in the closet and he knows what a battle he will have to face with his mother. But with the help of Elijah, his family, Callum starts to believe in having faith in what they have together. But his mother is one piece of work and she really adds such conflict to the story. I really despised this woman. She is so abusive to Callum and I couldn’t believe what she would do to her own son. The romance definitely has its battles, because Elijah is having to work so hard to tear down the walls that Callum has and my heart just broke for Elijah. But his patience and commanding presence that he delivers when its needed is the driving force to get to the heart and soul of Callum. The chemistry was delicious and all the feels in this book just delivered all the way for me. I wanted to consume this story and more. I honestly can’t wait to see what this author delivers next for us.
What I Struggled With
Not me to be honest. This book was everything I could have hoped for and more.
Overall View
Throttled is a story that will challenge you in ways you will want to be on the cheer squad for this pair and see the victory lap that both deserve towards their happily ever afters. It’s a true racing gem that packs a poignant punch where you least expect it!
Favorite Quote(s)
Something inside him calls to me like a ship in the night and I’m his lighthouse, beckoning him to come home.
This is the first time I’ve experienced something like it. this pull towards him–a man. It’s unknown and annoying but the more I spend time with him, the more I want it.
Elijah Hayes has wrecked me for any other—woman or man.
“I’ll always protect you, Eli. You’re too good for this world and I won’t let them tear you down.”
I would die for you, but I need you to live for me. And that’s exactly what I will do. I will live for him, race for him and win for him because even if we can’t be together, he’s changed my life forever. I will show him that our time together made a difference and that living for him is the best decision I could ever make.
Callum is a deeply rooted cancer that has burrowed under my skin and I don’t see him leaving my blood anytime soon.
Book Details (also in my shelves)
Sub Genre: Contemporary Romance
Character Types: Mechanic, Athlete
Themes: Sports-Racing, Laughs/Giggles, Hot Smexy Times, Gay For You
Tropes: Grumpy Sunshine, Opposites Attract, Forced Proximity
Book Perspective
Duo POV
Relationship Conflict vs Plot Conflict
A mix of both
Song This Book Inspires
Should I Stay by Gabrielle
Recommendation For Reading 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
dark
mysterious
sad
tense
fast-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
A mix
Strong character development:
Yes
Loveable characters:
Complicated
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
Crossed is the fifth installment in the "Never After" series and I absolutely had a blast with this one here. This is a story that features two characters that are so different and you would never think that they would be a good match, but this author somehow makes it work. There is plenty of taboo's in this book, so please check the trigger/content warnings before moving forward with this one. It has some aspects to the story that just won't be for everyone. Move forward at your own risk. I however, adore how this author writes romance, she has blended dark with fractured fairy tale retellings so very well. I was very curious how she would do a "Frollo and Esmeralda" retelling and I definitely got a kick out of this one, but it was far different than I actually expected it to be.
First Line
Festivale, Vermont, Looks different in the dead of night.
The Main Protagonists
The Hero: Cade
Cade is self abusive, a priest and a holy man. He was raised in Paris and abused as a child by a servant in the church. There is a mental illness he suffers from.
The Heroine: Amaya
Amaya, is guardian over her younger brother who has his own share of struggles. She is forced to pay money to her mothers pimp of sorts when she abandoned them. And to keep the lights on and pay the medical bills, she is a stripper. But is longing for more in her life.
Summary
When Father Cade comes to town, he is determined to rid any evil in the town. He has a darkness that spreads in him to get rid of evil. But there is a temptation he finds in a stripper club where he finds Esmeralda, who is a exotic dancer and tempts him for things he must deny himself. But when he finds out she is the same woman as Amaya, he is determined to do more than destroy her....he wants her for himself. But there is a unknown factor dealing with the villain of the story.. But when Amaya ends up in trouble for something she didn't do, she is forced to go to the devil for help, but the only one that can be her savior is Father Cade and his form of justice...
What I Loved
This book totally swept me away immediately. I am not sure why I put it off for so long. I knew I would need to be in the right mood for this and I knew that this would be religiously taboo (not that I am Catholic, so I personally don't understand many of the taboo elements but I am a Christian) and I have to say that this author really pushed my boundaries on this one. I wasn't sure how this retelling would actually happen, but man the retelling aspects were just perfect. But don't expect it to be a strict retelling, but the connections that we see to the original tale was so delightful! There are definitely darker themes in this one, some themes that even pushed my boundaries and its rare to come against a dark romance that really makes me struggle. But some of the actions of the hero was even a bit much even for me.
There is also so many forbidden themes to this story. Some aspects totally worked for me and other aspects really pushed my buttons and not necessarily in a good way. This author really wrote this story in such complexity that just clicked in the good and sensually bad ways we all love to see in this author. I really felt for the heroine though. She is just trying to survive and her poor brother. Man my heart went out to this kid. Who had some type of mental illness, not sure what exactly it was, but he seemed to be on the spectrum a bit and what she is willing to sacrifice for her 7 year old brother just broke my heart. I loved what a great mother she is to this child who needs so much love and support. The third act of the story was the most conflicting and yet the way it ends here was so satisfying.
What I Struggled With
There were some factors I really struggled with. The hero is a bit too anti hero even for me. The scene in the beginning was one I battled with the most. How the hero pushes the heroine away when she really needs help and doesn't see that. He sees all the little details, so I wasn't a fan on how that scene played out. I know why the author did it that way though, so that she would go to her mother's pimp and the one who has control over the town but still it was hard to see how that scene played out. The hero is one that hurts himself (like you know the scene in the Da Vinci Code where the holy man whips himself? Yeah he does that and it wasn't really fleshed out) I am not sure even if the heroine finds out or if she does we don't get that scene and I would have loved to see her helping him heal from that type of self abuse or help him understand himself more where that is concerned.
Overall View
Crossed is a dark and edgy romance that will push boundaries, have you feeling all the taboo vibes but delivering a satisfying romance that you will want to cheer these two on despite your reservations!
Favorite Quote(s)
It’s a cruel place here on earth, filled with people who don’t get it. Who choose not to understand that just because someone is different, it doesn’t mean they’re less than. Quinten deserves the whole world, and I’d do anything to shield him from the harsh reality of one that refuses to offer him even a small piece.
You consume me, Amaya. Break apart my faith with the fire of a thousand suns and dominate every nightmare until all I dream is you.”
“Tell me…who do you belong to?” “To myself.” My hand tightens on her face. She grins. “And to you, Cade Frédéric. My heart belongs to you. In all our lifetimes.”
“She may be your wife, but she is my soul,” I whisper against his ear. “And I will cut you up piece by piece and burn your empire until it’s soot, just so I can watch her be queen of the ashes.”
Book Details (also in my shelves)
Sub Genre: Contemporary Romance, Dark Romance
Character Types: Priest, Exotic Dancer, Anti Hero
Themes: Kids/Teens, Small Town, Taboo, Stalking, Dirty Talkin', Bullying
Tropes: Forbidden Love, Sex Worker with a Heart of Gold
Book Perspective
DUO Pov
Relationship Conflict vs Plot Conflict
A blend of both
Song This Book Inspires
Seven Devils by Florence + The Machine
Recommendation For Reading Order
You can read as a standalone
Steam/Spice Explanations
Steamin' up the room -the sexual content is more explicit in the language and tone, heavier amount of sexual scenes.
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
Crossed is the fifth installment in the "Never After" series and I absolutely had a blast with this one here. This is a story that features two characters that are so different and you would never think that they would be a good match, but this author somehow makes it work. There is plenty of taboo's in this book, so please check the trigger/content warnings before moving forward with this one. It has some aspects to the story that just won't be for everyone. Move forward at your own risk. I however, adore how this author writes romance, she has blended dark with fractured fairy tale retellings so very well. I was very curious how she would do a "Frollo and Esmeralda" retelling and I definitely got a kick out of this one, but it was far different than I actually expected it to be.
First Line
Festivale, Vermont, Looks different in the dead of night.
The Main Protagonists
The Hero: Cade
Cade is self abusive, a priest and a holy man. He was raised in Paris and abused as a child by a servant in the church. There is a mental illness he suffers from.
The Heroine: Amaya
Amaya, is guardian over her younger brother who has his own share of struggles. She is forced to pay money to her mothers pimp of sorts when she abandoned them. And to keep the lights on and pay the medical bills, she is a stripper. But is longing for more in her life.
Summary
When Father Cade comes to town, he is determined to rid any evil in the town. He has a darkness that spreads in him to get rid of evil. But there is a temptation he finds in a stripper club where he finds Esmeralda, who is a exotic dancer and tempts him for things he must deny himself. But when he finds out she is the same woman as Amaya, he is determined to do more than destroy her....he wants her for himself. But there is a unknown factor dealing with the villain of the story.. But when Amaya ends up in trouble for something she didn't do, she is forced to go to the devil for help, but the only one that can be her savior is Father Cade and his form of justice...
What I Loved
This book totally swept me away immediately. I am not sure why I put it off for so long. I knew I would need to be in the right mood for this and I knew that this would be religiously taboo (not that I am Catholic, so I personally don't understand many of the taboo elements but I am a Christian) and I have to say that this author really pushed my boundaries on this one. I wasn't sure how this retelling would actually happen, but man the retelling aspects were just perfect. But don't expect it to be a strict retelling, but the connections that we see to the original tale was so delightful! There are definitely darker themes in this one, some themes that even pushed my boundaries and its rare to come against a dark romance that really makes me struggle. But some of the actions of the hero was even a bit much even for me.
There is also so many forbidden themes to this story. Some aspects totally worked for me and other aspects really pushed my buttons and not necessarily in a good way. This author really wrote this story in such complexity that just clicked in the good and sensually bad ways we all love to see in this author. I really felt for the heroine though. She is just trying to survive and her poor brother. Man my heart went out to this kid. Who had some type of mental illness, not sure what exactly it was, but he seemed to be on the spectrum a bit and what she is willing to sacrifice for her 7 year old brother just broke my heart. I loved what a great mother she is to this child who needs so much love and support. The third act of the story was the most conflicting and yet the way it ends here was so satisfying.
What I Struggled With
There were some factors I really struggled with. The hero is a bit too anti hero even for me. The scene in the beginning was one I battled with the most. How the hero pushes the heroine away when she really needs help and doesn't see that. He sees all the little details, so I wasn't a fan on how that scene played out. I know why the author did it that way though, so that she would go to her mother's pimp and the one who has control over the town but still it was hard to see how that scene played out. The hero is one that hurts himself (like you know the scene in the Da Vinci Code where the holy man whips himself? Yeah he does that and it wasn't really fleshed out) I am not sure even if the heroine finds out or if she does we don't get that scene and I would have loved to see her helping him heal from that type of self abuse or help him understand himself more where that is concerned.
Overall View
Crossed is a dark and edgy romance that will push boundaries, have you feeling all the taboo vibes but delivering a satisfying romance that you will want to cheer these two on despite your reservations!
Favorite Quote(s)
It’s a cruel place here on earth, filled with people who don’t get it. Who choose not to understand that just because someone is different, it doesn’t mean they’re less than. Quinten deserves the whole world, and I’d do anything to shield him from the harsh reality of one that refuses to offer him even a small piece.
You consume me, Amaya. Break apart my faith with the fire of a thousand suns and dominate every nightmare until all I dream is you.”
“Tell me…who do you belong to?” “To myself.” My hand tightens on her face. She grins. “And to you, Cade Frédéric. My heart belongs to you. In all our lifetimes.”
“She may be your wife, but she is my soul,” I whisper against his ear. “And I will cut you up piece by piece and burn your empire until it’s soot, just so I can watch her be queen of the ashes.”
Book Details (also in my shelves)
Sub Genre: Contemporary Romance, Dark Romance
Character Types: Priest, Exotic Dancer, Anti Hero
Themes: Kids/Teens, Small Town, Taboo, Stalking, Dirty Talkin', Bullying
Tropes: Forbidden Love, Sex Worker with a Heart of Gold
Book Perspective
DUO Pov
Relationship Conflict vs Plot Conflict
A blend of both
Song This Book Inspires
Seven Devils by Florence + The Machine
Recommendation For Reading Order
You can read as a standalone
Steam/Spice Explanations
Steamin' up the room -the sexual content is more explicit in the language and tone, heavier amount of sexual scenes.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Self harm, Violence, Murder