Archives for June 2025

* Review * CRUEL SUMMER by Maisey Yates

June 12, 2025 Leave a Comment

I voluntarily read an early copy of this book.

Cruel Summer by Maisey Yates
Published by Canary Street Press on June 24, 2025
Buy on Amazon
Goodreads

There are no rules this cruel summer
…

“I think we should see other people…” That one sentence unravels Samantha Parker’s perfect life. She has a loving husband, three wonderful kids and a comfortable suburban lifestyle. But on the brink of their long-awaited empty-nest chapter, Will asks Samantha for something she never dreamed of: an open marriage.

Desperate to keep her husband happy, Samantha proposes a summerlong separation with no contact. She knows she has to use the opportunity to find herself, but she also has no interest in being with anyone but Will. She’s confident when the season is over, they’ll get back together like this time never happened.

Then Sam gets an offer of adventure from an unlikely source: Logan Martin, a classic-car restorer who happens to be Will’s best friend, asks Sam to help him drive across the country to make deliveries. Logan and Sam have never had an easy relationship. He’s prickly, aloof and a little too handsome. And as they traverse the winding roads and breathtaking backdrops of North America, her changing connection with Logan challenges everything she believed she wanted in life, love and passion. When her summer with Logan is up, will she go home to the familiar stability of her past…or choose the thrilling uncertainty of her future?

Not your typical Maisey Yates novel, but I loved every minute of watching her spread her wings and deliver an angsty heartbreaker! I was instantly hooked when this devoted wife and mother was told by her husband that he wanted an open marriage … after the kids were already raised and the fun was supposed to begin! The story is centered around Samantha and her journey of acceptance and an eye opening summer. There is sadness, heartbreak and angst … but there is also beauty in figuring out self-worth, journeying for the tough answers of what happiness really means and a peace and happiness in the end. There is technically cheating, but during an agreed upon separation. I easily connected with Sam and enjoyed watching her learn things about herself and come into a life she could see flourishing as one chapter ends and another begins. Really enjoyed!

Filed Under: Book Reviews

* Review * MIC DROP by Arell Rivers

June 12, 2025 Leave a Comment

I voluntarily read an early copy of this book.

Mic Drop by Arell Rivers
Series: Passionate Beats Trilogy #3
on June 26, 2025
Buy on Amazon
Goodreads

The Final Turn: Will “I Do” Twist into “Goodbye”?

Bennett Hardy, Battling for Forever

I can’t live without Jenna, no matter how hard I try to return to my old life. Driven by emotion that defies reason, I track her down, desperate to understand what went wrong. When I find her, she's a shadow of herself, her heart fractured by a discovery that left her in freefall. I won't let her face this alone. I'm here, offering not just love, but a sanctuary.

Yet it feels like the whole world is closing in, poised to spin us both out of control.

Jenna Westfield, Surrendering to Grief

Bennett is my anchor, the one who saw through my walls and made me believe in a love I never thought possible. But grief is a ravenous monster, devouring everything in its path. I'm pushing him away, testing the limits of his devotion, even as I crumble inside. Then, the past explodes, a twisted echo of old betrayals threatening to destroy the fragile peace we’ve built.

I'm trapped in a helix of despair, the final loop threatening to shatter us forever.

MIC DROP is the final book in the Passionate Beats trilogy. You’ll need to read both of the prior books in the trilogy first, and it ends with a much-deserved HEA. The story is told from Bennett and Jenna’s points of view. If you’re looking for a slow burn, found family rockstar romance filled with unexpected twists and turns, then get ready to defy gravity with Untamed Coaster!

Highly emotional and addictive! The conclusion to the Passionate Beats Trilogy brings more angst and turmoil to Jenna and Bennett while their love is tested. I’ve liked these characters from the first book so seeing their relationship play out through the hits that just keep coming is emotional. I wanted a bit more from them quite honestly. I wanted answers to the 007 hatred, I wanted to see them move forward in public in a connected way, I wanted more oomph for the ending. Overall, well developed characters, lost of angst and drama to sink your teeth into and heartfelt passion paved the way. I highly enjoyed their story overall.

Filed Under: Book Reviews

* Review * THE LOVE FIX by Jill Shalvis

June 12, 2025 Leave a Comment

I voluntarily read an early copy of this book.

The Love Fix by Jill Shalvis
Series: Sunrise Cove #8
Published by Avon on June 24, 2025
Buy on Amazon
Goodreads

Welcome back to Sunrise Cove for this heartwarming enemies-to-lovers tale where found family, forgiveness, and love may just be the key to finding yourself.

Lexi Clark’s life is falling apart around her, so when she’s summoned home to Sunrise Cove, the last thing she wants to do is face all the complications she left behind. Her past, her stepsister Ashley, and especially her infuriatingly gorgeous childhood nemesis-turned-crush Heath Bowman.

Yep, Lexi’s pretty sure being home again just might kill her. She’s an overachieving art appraiser who doesn’t believe in trust, love, or Happily Ever Afters. Free spirit Ashley, on the other hand, is so full of life it hurts to look at her. But Lexi can’t refuse Ashley’s plea to honor their late mother’s final wish to make amends with the people she’d wronged. So, on behalf of her estranged mother’s estate—and with Heath in tow as the executor—Lexi embarks on a road trip to repay all the people her gambling addicted mother owed money to.

Complicating everything are the feelings that well up for Lexi: for her mom, for Ashley, and most of all, for Heath. And for the record, she doesn’t like it, or the way he has of scaling the walls she’s built around her heart. The road trip shenanigans that ensue are both funny and heartbreaking, but Lexi finds something shocking along the way. Acceptance. Family. And unbelievably—if you ask Lexi anyway—love.

Shalvis makes a habit out of pulling on my heartstrings while making me chuckle out loud and I dearly love her for bringing all the feels time and time again! If you’ve read any of the Sunrise Cove series, you know it’s a laid back, friendly area where people seem to be drawn to in order to heal and find their forever love. The characters from book to book are not interconnected, but the warmth of the town, the heart of the scenery and the depth of the emotional relaxation is always at the forefront of every story. This particular book had loss and healing with so much underlying tension and mixed emotion to purge through. The characters hooked me quickly and the journey they set out on kept me turning page after page to see what was going to happen next. There was a strong backstory that explained where they each were coming from and really good development of the characters, the family in general and the emotion that their journey was bringing to each. I loved every minute and highly recommend to all.

Filed Under: Book Reviews

* Review * PLAYING WITH FOREVER by Erika Wilde

June 12, 2025 Leave a Comment

I voluntarily read an early copy of this book.

* Review * PLAYING WITH FOREVER by Erika Wilde

Playing with Forever by Erika Wilde
Series: Players Club Sinners #1
on June 23, 2025
Buy on Amazon
Goodreads

Chase Noble always seemed unattainable…until one night with him at the Players Club changed everything.

I’ve wanted Chase for years, but much to my frustration, he’s always considered me off limits. When I walk into the Players Club with one goal in mind, to find a man who will give me what I need, it’s the maddeningly dominant, possessive (and I soon discover, pierced) Chase who refuses to allow any other man to touch me. He gives me a night I’ll never forget, a taste of what is possible, and I want more. With him.

But Chase is a man with a dark past and secrets, and even though we come to an agreement, where I’m the student and he’s the teacher, he insists this is all it could ever be. That’s he’s not capable of anything more.

Just as things begin to heat up between us, someone starts leaving me cryptic messages and watching my every move. Chase insists I move in with him so he can protect me, and the moment I do, our undeniable chemistry ignites into something deeper than either of us expected.

Soon, his protection isn’t enough. I want all of him—his body, his heart, and his trust. And this time, I’m not letting him go without a fight.

Playing with Forever is a steamy romance with high stakes tension, a possessive alpha hero, and a love worth fighting for.

Emotional and decadently sexy! The first book in Erika Wilde’s Players Club Sinners spin-off series was very quick to catch my attention and hold it as Andrea found just what she was looking for in Chase. The characters were easy to connect with and though each had a unique backstory, they also had common denominators that connected them even before their passion flared. The plot was sexually steamy and very satisfying, but there was also a bit of a suspense factor to the storyline that played a big part in the drama as well. I wanted to see a little more of them out and about as a couple once they were solidified, but overall I loved their story and can’t wait to see where the series goes next. Must be okay with BDSM to enjoy! Highly recommend!

Filed Under: Book Reviews

* Review * DEALBREAKER by Elise Faber and Kat Mizera

June 9, 2025 Leave a Comment

I voluntarily read an early copy of this book.

* Review * DEALBREAKER by Elise Faber and Kat Mizera

Dealbreaker by Elise Faber, Kat Mizera
Series: Gamebreakers #3
on June 23, 2025
Buy on Amazon
Goodreads

She’s the biggest movie star in the world.

And she’s in danger.

My specialty is security for the rich and famous, so when legendary actress Willow St. Claire asks for my help protecting her, I can’t say no.

The only problem is that I’m in danger too.

Of losing my heart.

She’s smart and sweet, beautiful and kind, and despite my determination to never fall in love again I know I’m going to make her mine.

But when her past catches up with her, the future I’ve begun to plan is suddenly at risk.

I might lose her.

And everything I never knew I wanted.

I was hooked on this emotional delight from the very first page! Elise Faber and Kat Mizera are teaming up to bring us the Gamebreakers series and the group of guys that this series revolves around are really great. They have been friends for years and have a deep connection. Each one is slowly finding their forever love and taking the gang along for the ride as they add on to their little family. This book is Hudson’s book and quickly jumps into the heart of the storyline. Willow is vulnerable and easy to take under our proverbial wing as she grows closer to Hudson and his crew. The emotional depth of this book is powerful and the underlying issues are showcased in just enough detail to get the point across without making the story overwrought with sadness. I loved getting to know Willow and Hudson through each other’s eyes and seeing the depth of love simple kindness can inspire. Great characters, well developed plot and lots of emotion and turmoil to keep us reading. Loved them and can’t wait for what’s up next for the gang!

Filed Under: Book Reviews

* Review * NO MORE YESTERDAYS by Catherine Bybee

June 9, 2025 Leave a Comment

I voluntarily read an early copy of this book.

* Review * NO MORE YESTERDAYS by Catherine Bybee

No More Yesterdays by Catherine Bybee
Series: The Heirs #3
Published by Montlake on June 17, 2025
Buy on Amazon
Goodreads

Taking over her late father’s company was never part of Alex Stone’s life plan.

But now, sitting in the CEO chair at Stone Enterprises, she’s resigned to living her life alone. Being a high-powered, billionaire woman tends to narrow one’s romantic prospects. As Alex works relentlessly to reshape her inherited hotel empire, she’s acquired a target on her back complete with death threats.

Alex turns to Hawk Bronson, a man who is equal parts bodyguard, sexy, and completely infuriating. Especially when it comes to protecting her.

As the danger escalates, Hawk comes to terms with the fact that their connection goes way beyond bodyguard and assignment. He knows he should keep his distance—his own dark past and nightmares put her at greater risk—but he can’t walk away. Protecting Alex means everything. Putting her life in someone else’s care isn’t an option once he’s tasted their passion and depth of his feelings.

As they navigate a minefield of family secrets, past pain, and unexpected hope, Alex and Hawk must face their deepest fears and fight for a future together. But first, they’ll need to unmask whoever is behind the threats—before Alex becomes their next victim.

I didn’t think it was possible to love the Stone siblings more … but I was wrong! The final installment of The Heirs trilogy has Bybee wrapping this family even more around her reader’s heart as Chase and Max show their love and concern for their sister time and again. Alexandrea has had the weight of the world on her shoulders for many months now and it’s beginning to take it’s toll when danger comes knocking. The characters are endearing and super easy to like, the drama of their father’s will and surprise brother folds right into where this book picks up with ease and suspense and the love the siblings honestly feel for each other shows around every turn. I loved the addition of super protective Hawk to the mix and being there every step of the way as he and Alex fell in love. I’m sorry to see our time with this group end, but I highly enjoyed every minute of their stories. Great characters, dramatic plots and spot on happily ever afters. Highly recommend the series!

Filed Under: Book Reviews

* Review * LOOK AT HER AND DIE by Lani Lynn Vale

June 9, 2025 Leave a Comment

I voluntarily read an early copy of this book.

* Review * LOOK AT HER AND DIE by Lani Lynn Vale

Look at Her and Die by Lani Lynn Vale
Series: Content Advisory #2
on June 10, 2025
Buy on Amazon
Goodreads

Posy “Doc” Hicks has high blood pressure. All thanks to a certain hazel-eyed blonde who drives him absolutely insane in her short shorts and cowboy boots.

At first, Searcy Hodges is just a passing fancy.

A look but don’t touch kind of girl.

She has a bad attitude, an even worse bedside manner, and a chip on her shoulder the size of Texas.

It would be wise to stay away, even if that attitude of hers really does great things for him.

But how is a man supposed to stay away when her temper is just that spectacular to experience?

He’s literally watched Searcy make one of her customers cry and not care.

She’s the poster child for ‘don’t do this if you want to stay in business.’

Yet, everyone keeps coming back.

And she keeps shelling out the attitude.

He’s a grown man. He shouldn’t get as much enjoyment out of watching the woman struggle.

He should be figuring out his own life, not wanting to dig into hers.

But the moment she breaks down in his arms and asks him for help, setting aside the attitude and exposing her vulnerability, he finds it impossible to say no.

He’s a Truth Teller. A biker with a hero complex. A paramedic and a former SEAL.

It’s literally ingrained in his psyche to help, and it’s painfully obvious that Searcy could use everything he has to give.

And while he’s solving her problems, he’ll make her his along the way.

She’ll never see it coming.

Vale wraps another couple around my heart with ease! Book 2 of the Content Advisory Series is easy to become invested in from the very start. Searcy is tough as nails and doesn’t hesitate to speak her mind, but beneath the surface there is a wounded heart who is taken advantage of time and again. I loved seeing her eventually get the better of those who have held her down all of her life. This series revolves around the Truth Tellers MC, but so far they are protective and kind-hearted but there’s not a lot of MC front and center, so a casual connection so far. The characters are well developed and the emotion is spot on with lots of turmoil and heart to sink your teeth into along the way. Highly enjoying the series so far!

Filed Under: Book Reviews

* Review * HER FIRST MISTAKE by Kendra Elliot

June 9, 2025 Leave a Comment

I voluntarily read an early copy of this book.

* Review * HER FIRST MISTAKE by Kendra Elliot

Her First Mistake by Kendra Elliot
Series: Noelle Marshall #1
Published by Montlake on June 10, 2025
Buy on Amazon
Goodreads

Thirteen years ago, Assemblyman Derrick Bell was murdered in his home by an intruder. His wife, Noelle Marshall, was left for dead. The crime was unsolved, but it wasn’t forgotten.

Today the FBI is tackling a fresh perspective on the case and looking to Noelle, now a detective for the Deschutes County sheriff’s office, for new clues. It is reopening everything Noelle thought was behind her. Memories of her escape from a traumatic childhood. A marriage that wasn’t the perfect love story she’d been promised. And a husband whose charm and privilege hid a dark side. But Noelle has been hiding something too: a secret about the night Derrick died that she has never told anyone.

As past and present and leads and misleads collide, one thing is frighteningly clear. Derrick’s murder wasn’t just unsolved. It’s unfinished. And only the truth—no matter the risk—can save the next victim.

Explosive yet endearing! The first book in a brand new series from Kendra Elliot is sure to please her diehard readers because we see some familiar faces along the way from previous series that we all love and adore. The main character that this series revolves around is Detective Noelle Marshall. We learn quickly about her unexpected past and follow along every step of the way as twists and turns lead us to answers we never were expecting. The characters are easy to like and make you want to know more about them, the case is intriguing and the mystery surrounding it is addictive. I loved every minute and can’t wait to see what happens next for Noelle and Max. Highly recommend!

Filed Under: Book Reviews

* Review * AN UNEXPECTED EVERYTHING by Carrie Ann Ryan

June 9, 2025 Leave a Comment

I voluntarily read an early copy of this book.

* Review * AN UNEXPECTED EVERYTHING by Carrie Ann Ryan

An Unexpected Everything by Carrie Ann Ryan
Series: The Cage Family #2
Published by Carrie Ann Ryan on June 9, 2025
Buy on Amazon
Goodreads

He left me with a note.

Weston Caldwell and I had two months together. Two months of intense heat and plans for our future. Then one day he left me sleeping with a note and never turned back. I closed off my heart and my dreams after he left and promised to take care of my family, never trusting love again.

So when I am forced to head to my family’s small town for protection, I never expect to turn around and see the man I loved.

I want to walk away and never look back, but when I find out he left for a heartbreaking reason, I’m not sure what to think. The chemistry between us hasn’t gone away—if anything it burns even brighter.

But my life is in the city and his is in this small town that draws me. Between his siblings, the town itself, and my new found family, walking away might break me.

Only Weston isn’t the only secret from my past. And it turns out, if Weston and I aren’t careful, we could lose everything before we find our second chance.

An emotional reunion filled with heart and angst! The next book in Ryan’s Cage Family series focuses on oldest sis from the “other” side of the fam, Isabella. She is powerful, opinionated and always looking out for her family. When she comes face to face with the man that left her behind all those years ago with no explanation, her emotions are churning like a roller coaster and she has to confront feelings she buried long ago. The main characters are really easy to like and the family that each of them brings into the picture are heartwarming and down-to-earth. I loved the way Ryan painted their worlds so that the reader could understand her pain, yet not hold anything against Weston for being a truly good guy in the end. I enjoyed their story from start to finish and can’t wait to see more of the Cage’s find their forever. Highly recommend!

Filed Under: Book Reviews

* Review * THE LOST BOOK OF FIRST LOVES by RaeAnne Thayne

June 3, 2025 Leave a Comment

I voluntarily read an early copy of this book.

* Review * THE LOST BOOK OF FIRST LOVES by RaeAnne Thayne

The Lost Book of First Loves by RaeAnne Thayne
Published by Canary Street Press on June 3, 2025
Buy on Amazon
Goodreads

Raised by her literary icon father Carson Wells, Alison Wells always felt loved, even though her mother died when she was a teen. But when she takes a DNA test on a whim and discovers she has a sister she never knew about, it’s clear there are things her father didn't tell her before he died. Determined to meet Juniper—her half sister—and unravel the truth of what happened all those years ago, Ali finds herself taking a job as Juniper’s intern. She’ll eventually figure out a way to tell Juniper the truth of their relationship. But she never could have imagined what would happen next…

Juniper Connolly has always been incredibly healthy…until she wakes up in the hospital after experiencing cardiac arrest, with her new—and recently fired—intern to thank for saving her life. It’s clear June needs to de-stress her life a little, so when Ali offers her the use of her family’s cabin in a small Wyoming town, June has no reason not to go. But when she arrives, her life will never be the same.

Under the wide-open spaces of the Wyoming summer sun, Ali and June will untangle the secrets and lies their lives were built on to discover who they really are and what family really means. But even more than that, they'll build a real relationship with one another and finally become sisters.

Highly captivating and emotional! This story was quick to catch my attention and as the groundwork was being set for the story as a whole, I quickly became ingrained into the lives of these two half sisters who knew nothing about each other but forged an unbreakable bond through happenstance. A bit of subterfuge brings Ali into June’s life at just the right time to save her and begin the slow journey of building a friendship that will carry forward into sisterhood when all of the secrets are unraveled. Each sister has a caring man open their eyes to what could be as their worlds collide and beauty shines through. I loved every minute of their story, but really wanted an epilogue to give us a hint into how their stories played out on the love, distance and job fronts. Highly recommend!

Filed Under: Book Reviews