My second Li book and I will say, this author brings to the table intriguing world building and colorful characters!
Edward is the venerable3.5 Hearts!
My second Li book and I will say, this author brings to the table intriguing world building and colorful characters!
Edward is the venerable mayor of a small town known to offer peace and acceptance for those who typically don’t belong. However, an unseasonably terribly hot winter that’s only getting worse, can mean doom for the burgeoning community. Something definitely unnatural is afoot, and Edward must ask ex lover Shu for help, bringing to the fore past hurts and lingering regrets. What they ultimately discover is pretty horrific but the situation allows Edward to realize his mistakes and ask for forgiveness and acceptance.
Bridge an old western theme with lots of magic plus some legend and lore and you’ve got quite the entertaining holiday historical. This was unique and sexy with a sweet second chance at love!
Thank you to the author/publisher for a copy in exchange for a honest review
For more reviews on this week’s Advent releases, please check out the blog!!...more
What happens when a covert agent realizes the man he loves lied to him, barring the fact that he lied about the very nature of his own job and 4 Stars
What happens when a covert agent realizes the man he loves lied to him, barring the fact that he lied about the very nature of his own job and identity? What happens when a double agent, in an effort to protect one of his own, falls for him instead?? Apparently, all sorts of complications and yummy goodness. I mean, who doesn't love spies and espionage, and shit blowing up??
You've got Fisher, who's a lot stubborn but understandably betrayed. Then you've got Zach, who's torn between duty and the man he can't let go. These lone wolves have found a sanctuary in the other they never thought possible. Too bad the foundation of their relationship is a lot shaky. However they have a job to do, and that's protecting the other and not getting dead.
Major points go towards the genre itself - tough men going tender is the fabulous icing on the proverbial cake. Overall this was great fun, despite a bit of frustration in the first half regarding Fisher. Once he pulls his head out of his ass, that's when things take off.
Bottom line - this had angsty feels, darn good smex, tense action, and sweet, sweet proclamations. Definitely hard to resist such a heady mix! High five!...more
I’m not the only one who appreciated this insight from Ethan’s POV as it was long overdue and thankfully, linear in its storytelling.
Not that3.5 Stars
I’m not the only one who appreciated this insight from Ethan’s POV as it was long overdue and thankfully, linear in its storytelling.
Not that I had any doubts that Ethan loves Jack and would do anything to keep him safe, this just added a new dimension as to what happened in Why the Devil Stalks Death and what is about to go down in the final installment. Looking forward to it!...more
I’m going to agree with everyone else who loved this.
Realistic. Hardcore. Compelling.
This is where a cop story is done right, when you want pla4 Stars
I’m going to agree with everyone else who loved this.
Realistic. Hardcore. Compelling.
This is where a cop story is done right, when you want plausible and it’s delivered.
Take one jaded detective who’s always been on the right side of justice, one who has been met with corruption and roadblocks over and over and goes about taking down a criminal drug ring that goes all the way to the top by any way possible. If that means brushing against, and sometimes stepping over the line to justify the means, then so be it.
Drop in a newly promoted rookie to be his partner, one who’s been not so secretly tasked to “spy” on him by Internal Affairs, and you’ve got quite the sticky situation.
Not surprisingly, these two don’t hit it off at all, but when things get dangerous and more informants end up dead, the pressure to bring down the bad guys reaches a breaking point and they can’t afford to not trust each other.
No eye rolling here. I applaud the gritty seriousness of not only their working relationship but each of these men have their own personal problems that present plenty of other challenges to their complicated dynamic. Add some really well done UST and smexy, a very nice age gap, and a delicious enemies to lovers set up, and this was oh so satisfying especially when these two give into their unwanted but too hard to resist desires. Mmmmmmm.
Narrated by Michael Ferraiuolo, this fact should only make you want to read this more!! Go now! Don’t wait! I for one, look forward to what’s next in store for these guys!!...more
Though this seems like the conclusion of Silas and Darien’s journey (despite one more book focusing on Jasper and Hamish) it really was a fitti4 Stars
Though this seems like the conclusion of Silas and Darien’s journey (despite one more book focusing on Jasper and Hamish) it really was a fitting end as they stop a dangerous demon-using-fanatical-group of evil sorcerers who want complete world domination.
There’s lots of magic, lots of politics, and definitely, lots of high stakes with unthinkable repercussions should they fail.
As always, this has fantastic animal familiar dynamics and found family vibes that’s further solidified, providing a consistent fulfilling series set against a paranormal historical background!
This second installment continues to see the world spiraling out of control as the unrelenting Wolf Winter slowly destroys the inner workings o3 Stars
This second installment continues to see the world spiraling out of control as the unrelenting Wolf Winter slowly destroys the inner workings of humanity. Focusing on Wolf Prince Gregor, he’s injured and needs help to find his greatest adversary and best ally, fellow twin Jack from Dog Days. Good thing Dr. Nick Blake finds him and speeds up his recovery but quickly, they both find themselves in a race against a growing army of scary minions.
Know that the world building is still unclear and hostile. Though it’s time for the Wolf to have its reign, enemies want to take that power for themselves no matter the collateral damage to both man and wolf. Nick might seem to be an innocent dragged into the fight, but luckily, there’s more than meets the eye.
Overall, I don’t know if I was in an off mood or maybe my tastes are evolving. I will say that the few Moore books I’ve read, I’ve really enjoyed. However, this time around, a nebulous grim dark tale with violent graphic horror just didn’t float my boat. I know now I will have to shore up some reserves for what’s sure to be a daunting journey in the finale.
Look. For me, Alexei and Sean are the top couple of this series, and their wedding and subsequent honeymoon is not something I would say no4 Stars
Look. For me, Alexei and Sean are the top couple of this series, and their wedding and subsequent honeymoon is not something I would say no to.
Of course, this being Alexei and Sean, you know shenanigans are inevitable in terms of baddies, gunfights, and things exploding spectacularly. Toss in Prince Liam and grumpy MI6 agent Oliver that sets things up for their book, and I’m already there with my soda and popcorn!
Sexy, full of action, and found family. This was an obvious win!...more
A satisfying conclusion for Adam and Parker who deserve all the wins and happiness!
It’s 3 years later, and our heroes and their found f4 Finale Stars!
A satisfying conclusion for Adam and Parker who deserve all the wins and happiness!
It’s 3 years later, and our heroes and their found family have deservedly acquired some peace and safety on Salvation Island. When a newcomer (an enigmatic broody alpha) encroaches on their lives, it turns that very safety on its head, pushing Adam and Parker to leave their sanctuary for a dangerous mission.
What ensues is anxiety, angst, paranoia, and fear. What they encounter are scary revelations, difficult decisions amongst life threatening situations, not only from creepers but humans as well, often sadly, the uninfected being the biggest threat to their existence.
Despite this giving me little joy simply because of the subject matter, this finale shines because of Adam and Parker. Seriously, their love, their unwavering faith and trust in the other was the best thing about this story, filling me with much needed hope and reassurance (and bringing a good amount of teariness) that they would come out the other side winners simply because they never ever faltered in the other.
This is a harrowing ride. I’m exhausted and in much need of some major fluff but again, Adam and Parker were simply wonderful, and I’m totally basking in such a truly memorable relationship!
If witches and voodoo and rivalries and magic float your boat then consider this your next MM read!
As per the blurb, Keller is basically a fo3.5 Stars
If witches and voodoo and rivalries and magic float your boat then consider this your next MM read!
As per the blurb, Keller is basically a foot soldier for the Zayne clan, and when its hated matriarch dies mysteriously, he and the rest of the family are surprised to hear about a long lost son they never knew about. They need this unknown person to unlock the Zayne book of shadows to renew the wards protecting their source of power before the end of the month, or all their enemies will converge together to take over.
Keller thinks this will be an easy zap and grab, but when he encounters Dylan, the young man is inherently protected by outside forces as well as an unpracticed innate skill. These two clash immediately but can’t deny the other’s unique appeal, both dangerous and alluring for different reasons.
As Dylan learns more about his family and his latent necromantic powers the less he wants to know. However, he’s a dangerous uncontrolled powerhouse, and Keller wars with himself, his own personal motives not aligning with Dylan slowly chipping away at his ice cold heart.
I really liked the premise. I liked how magic was portrayed and used in this. I liked the rivalries and the different players and witchy politics. However, there was just a slight disconnect for me regarding the romance. Keller was intriguing and dark and his redemption was oh so easy and neat. Dylan was a ray of sunshine but often, his reactions and actions were just a tad too extreme. This is me being nit picky, and I don’t expect other readers to feel the same.
Overall, not a favorite of this author’s, but I will say Bauer continues to entertain with being varied in her tropes and her genres which I wholly appreciate. I look forward to her next creation!...more
What can I say? When Calmes does things right, I’m left with a huge smile on my face and a sense of contentment in having read a4.5 -High Five- Stars!
What can I say? When Calmes does things right, I’m left with a huge smile on my face and a sense of contentment in having read a book that just made me feel good.
Unlike Balanced and Tied (book #5) which showcased US Deputy Marshal Eli Kohn randomly matched with a ballet dancer “outsider”, this second spinoff features fellow Marshal teammates Josiah Redeker and Bodhi Callahan. What probably made this so enjoyable is that these two nicely contrasted in comparison to pentultimate pair Ian and Miro, echoing many similar traits and getting themselves into similar situations. Redeker is blunt and straightforward, often the caretaker but impetuously always dives straight into danger. Bodhi is the handsome charmer with a tender heart, the quintessential protector of his brash partner.
These two have been circling each other for six years, only trusting and relying on the other, but never fully voicing or acting on their feelings for stupid reasons, and it’s sooo obvious to everyone (including themselves) that they’re perfect for each other.
Thankfully, all those stupid barriers come crumbling down when Redeker gets hurt, and Bodhi will not take no for an answer in nursing him back to health even if that means bringing Redeker on a vacation to meet his fiance’s family. Yeeaaaahhhhhh, you heard that right. Granted, it’s not the most ideal situation having one of the MC’s in a relationship, but Calmes pulls it off. There’s plenty of feels, rescues, a bit of action, high stakes scenarios, shenanigans, and banter to last you for days.
If this series is your Calmes comfort zone then seriously, you won't be disappointed.
So, it’s obvious I loved this. I had an absolutely fabulous time with these two as I revisited the bazillion other side characters who love to weigh in and give each other shit, setting up those feel good found family vibes which made it that much sweeter. The only reason why this isn't 5 stars is that this felt just a teeny tiny bit recycled from the first 4 books featuring my aforementioned favorite duo which really isn’t a complaint at all. I apparently like a certain formula, and Calmes definitely delivered!...more
I think fans would jump at any chance to revisit this world with Cinder and her loyal friends!
Overall, I enjoyed myself, and it was nice to fo3 Stars
I think fans would jump at any chance to revisit this world with Cinder and her loyal friends!
Overall, I enjoyed myself, and it was nice to focus on android Iko. However, the conflict was drawn out, and I found this over 300 page graphic novel just way too long. ...more
I don’t know if it’s because I miss this group of military badasses or what, but I’m not sorry that I highly enjoyed myself with this no frills4 Stars
I don’t know if it’s because I miss this group of military badasses or what, but I’m not sorry that I highly enjoyed myself with this no frills novella about Trevor Sanchez from the renowned now disbanded Alpha Team.
Turner never fails the reader on action or smex, and she even threw in some hurt comfort vibes. Who knew that Trevor was smart, sensitive, and caring while defeating bad guys with a mere thought of his powerful ability of telekinesis. More please!
As with all ensemble series, seeing everyone else do their thing and lovingly give each other shit was the proverbial icing on the cake, and I just gobbled it up! ...more
An enjoyable graphic novel showing what went down in the months after Winter. Android Iko gets to shine, and there’s an enemies to lovers rom3.5 Stars
An enjoyable graphic novel showing what went down in the months after Winter. Android Iko gets to shine, and there’s an enemies to lovers romance brewing!
Apparently, I was in just the pitch perfect mood because this seriously was so much fun! I missed Finn and Marcus and didn’t even know it. I 4.5 Stars
Apparently, I was in just the pitch perfect mood because this seriously was so much fun! I missed Finn and Marcus and didn’t even know it. I loved that this book really focused on their dynamic, their internal motivations, and further honed their personalities to great entertaining delight.
Don’t get me wrong. Winters can obvioulsy provide the super silly and ridiculous, but she can also intermix that with a good amount of scary intense horror as well as bring heavy hits of impactful feels.
I do believe that it takes a talented author to swing so broadly between the tropes and the tone of this series and do it consistently and engagingly. I’m duly impressed and have a new appreciation for her stories!
In the grand scheme of things does this break any new barriers? No. However, this series definitely got better with each book, tied together wi4 Stars
In the grand scheme of things does this break any new barriers? No. However, this series definitely got better with each book, tied together with a central story arc, and in the end what’s most important to me is that I had fun!
Where this shines is the various offbeat paranormal characters that got more and more entertaining as the reader gets into each POV, where the interactions and history between them all builds, adding more weight and depth, not only to the characters but to the entire story as a whole!
This last installment features OCD and uptight sorcerer David who falls for his complete opposite. Unbeknownst to David, elf Caolan is his perfect counterpart, a calming, caring, and carefree presence that is a balm to his soul. They must work together to bridge their worlds to save Caolan’s people from annihilation as well as the existence of magic as they know it.
Really great silly fun with a dash of romance and a seriously unsettling underlying plot thread that I thought was a well thought out creation! Good stuff!...more
No one is more surprised than me that this series went from an average but entertaining read to something with actual depth. On the surface thi4 Stars
No one is more surprised than me that this series went from an average but entertaining read to something with actual depth. On the surface this may be a paranormal romcom but deep down within its many layers, is an impressive, subtly complex, magical creation theory, along with the evil baddies hell bent on destroying the foundational system the universe relies upon. Because of such a logical set up with an equally believable conflict, this 3rd installment gained the points it deserves.
Surrounding this serious core is still a healthy coating of silly ridiculousness that takes the edge off of the entire doom and gloom situation the cast is trying to defeat. Bring in alternate dimensions, the dire consequences of time travel, a couple species on the brink of extinction - all intermixed with no holds barred hellhound Alister finally realizing being open to a relationship has some major benefits and shifter leader Aidan who has room for some more fun in his life filled with important responsibility.
Overall, this consistently has VRC and THIRDS vibes, and I’m happy to say that this series just gets better with each book as we expand our exposure to the large cast. Though still light on epic romance, this delivers consistently with the smexy and humor, easily keeping one's interest in the various pairings and ongoing conflict!...more
Look. This is not Ian and Miro by any means. It’s basically a poor man’s Ian and Miro. However because Ian and Miro are in this I had to g4 Iffy Stars
Look. This is not Ian and Miro by any means. It’s basically a poor man’s Ian and Miro. However because Ian and Miro are in this I had to give it 4 stars because I take what I can get right?? One can see that I think Ian and Miro are the bees knees. Can I say Ian and Miro any more than I already have? Ian and Miro. Ian and Miro. Ian and Miro.
So it’s obvious what I wish this 5th installment was all about. If it weren't for the aforementioned lovebirds, I’d typically give this my standard 3.5 score. Rest assured that the classic Calmes components are present. There’s a Jory-esque character who is irresistible to all, takes no sass, and who’s in love with his best friend. Said straight best friend is clueless but is possessive of Jory (ahem, I mean Cel) like nobody’s business and then an epiphany comes, and it’s literally balls to the walls.
This is basically Ian and Miro 2.0 without the major swoon. Maybe it’s because I never really got a sense of who Eli was in the previous books except that he was a metrosexual ladies man - that minus the Marshals association, this was nothing overly special. However, revisiting my favorite guys and all the other badass marshals (and don’t forget king of the grumps, no nonsense Sam Kage) made me remember that I absolutely love this group of wily hooligans. Toss in the requisite mob presence because of course they’re involved, and this was still a solid entry to Calmes’s convoluted cuckoo Chicago universe....more
From the beginning, I’ve really enjoyed this series, not only for the scary paranormal elements but also for the fantastic roma5 Stars for the Series!
From the beginning, I’ve really enjoyed this series, not only for the scary paranormal elements but also for the fantastic romance.
I know I’ve not been quiet about my love for Danny who is so swoony sexy and for Rain’s biting humor that only gets better and better. I also always revel in a great supporting cast that gives as good as it takes and makes for a really enjoyable fun ride, enriching the entire experience and again, each book elevates this dynamic.
Harmon in her afterword says it’s not for sure that this is the last we’ll see of Rain and Danny but if it is, I agree with her that this fantastically ended on a high note with plenty of exposition that my epilogue loving self luxuriated in. This excels in all areas - a weak in the knees love story, smexy smex, a compelling mystery with scary heart thumping high stakes (though this time around it was crazy unbelievable), and a protagonist that sings to my funny bone and his lover who intoxicatingly appeals to my heart.
Overall, this will remain a favorite memorable series and should Harmon revisit these two, without a doubt I’ll be all in!
This continues the central plot of stopping a fanatical group that wants to enslave all of humanity that started w3.5 Stars
A solid second installment!
This continues the central plot of stopping a fanatical group that wants to enslave all of humanity that started with the first book Demons Do It Better, and the focus is now on human Noah and CSG agent, vampire Andrew.
I won’t go into too much detail of the hows and whys, but just know that these two have a fun antagonistic relationship. Andrew just loves to push people’s buttons, no more so than Noah. Because Andrew drives Noah up the wall, Noah bemoans the fact that he’s actually attractive to the most infuriating man of all time.
Maybe not as funny as VRC or as whack as THIRDS, but this second installment just drove home that vibe of comfort read for me if snarky paranormal, solid found family vibes, silly group dynamics, light romance, and an ongoing mystery for a series story arc is your thing. Enjoy!...more
* A Reader Obsessed *
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