Reading the Paranormal

No Matter the Cost by Anna Hackett [Review]

2026-06-08T03:00:00.000-07:00

No Matter the Cost (Unsanctioned #2) by Anna Hackett
Format: paperback
Source: purchased
Disclaimer: As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.
Date read: February 3, 2026

Unsanctioned
1. Burn the World Down
2. No Matter the Cost - Paperback | Special Edition | Kindle

Related Series:
(Find all the reviews for the series under the 1st review)
Team 52
1. Mission: Her Protection

Anna Hackett
| Website | Amazon |

Synopsis (Goodreads):

I’ll make her mine, if she doesn’t kill me first.

Bastian

I came from nothing and became known as the Reaper. The most feared CIA assassin in the business. Then I retired, faked my death, and now spend my time running my casino.

But there’s one part of my past I can’t let go—the tiny female assassin who’s vowed to kill me.

We were mentored by the same man, a man we both considered a father, but there’s nothing brotherly about what I feel for Lark.

Now, we’re enemies and she won’t rest until I’m dead.

I won’t rest until she’s mine.

Lark

I have one mission—kill Bastian Thorne.

I lost everything when my parents were murdered. Until a grizzled CIA agent took me in and molded me into a deadly assassin.

Then Bastian executed him.

My plan: infiltrate Bastian’s luxurious life and take him down. But he proves hard to kill and forces me to face an ugly, tangled truth.

Secrets from my past collide with my blood-drenched present. I find myself in the sights of a dangerous killer. One with twisted reasons for wanting me dead.

Now, the only man I can trust is my enemy.

But I know getting close to Bastian is the biggest risk of all.

Thoughts on No Matter the Cost: We're back with the second of the ex-assassins and Bastian definitely has his hands full with Lark. Her past is as dark and dangerous as his and she's determined to kill him for killing her mentor. Look, theirs is a complicated relationship with lots of fighting and knives.

To say that Bastian has his hands full with Lark might be an understatement. She keeps trying to kill him and he needs to explain why he did what he did. But explaining will hurt Lark and he doesn't really want to do that. So they're caught in this push and pull against one another, but Bastian knows he has to step up and give Lark the explanations she deserves.

As Lark grapples with the bombshell Bastian dropped on her, she also has this inconvenient (at least in her eyes) attraction to the sexy ex-assassin. Plus, there's this serial killer who just might be targeting her for reasons that tie back in to why she had been gunning for Bastian in the first place.

Yeah, these two are complicated.

The fight. They have sexy times. Lark has a tough time realizing she can rely on anyone. Bastian is a little bossy. These two plus Bastian's crew of deadly friends work to make sure no one else will die at the hands of the person targeting Lark. I must say I like these deadly men and the women who fall for them. PLUS! We got to see a familiar face or two (Team 52!) and I always enjoy that!

RtP's Week in Review (06/07/26)

2026-06-07T00:00:00.000-07:00

Reading the Paranormal's Week in Review

Beast Business by Ilona Andrews [Review] - Augustine! Diana!
The Mermaid in the Shot Glass by Hailey Edwards [Review] - Shapeshifting love!
Guarded by the Nightmare by Cassie Alexander [Review] - Monster love!
Second Act Romance by Julie Soto [Review] - A second chance at loooooove!
A Play for Love by Trilina Pucci [Review] - Another second chance!!
Saved by my Demon by X. Callisto [Review] - Demon love!

Bookish Delights

Books added to the pile

Lover Forbidden (Black Dagger Brotherhood #23) by J.R. Ward

Currently reading

Wild Fire by Ilona Andrews

Saved by My Demon by X. Callisto [Review]

2026-06-06T03:00:00.000-07:00

Saved by My Demon (Demon Fated Mates #2) by X. Callisto
Format: ebook
Source: borrowed through Kindle Unlimited
Disclaimer: As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.
Date read: February 4, 2026

Demon Fated Mates
1. Possessed by My Demon
2. Saved by My Demon - Kindle
3. Deal with My Demon
4. Sacrificed to My Demon
5. Bound to My Demon
6. Summoning My Demon
7. Falling for My Demon
8. Snowed In with My Demon

X. Callisto
| Amazon |

Synopsis (Goodreads):

I inherited my grandmother's house and her enemies. Demon hunters want me dead, convinced I've gone dark. Problem is, I can't control the magic I inherited, and "I'm just untrained, not evil" isn't much of a defense when they're holding blessed blades.

Desperate, I used Grandma's rosary to summon a guardian angel for protection. What I got was Kayne—fallen, dangerous, and pissed about being bound to protect me despite his banishment from Heaven.

He fell for lusting after mortals. One touch and I understand why. His touch is divine ecstasy, and when his black wings wrap around me, I feel both corrupted and saved.

The hunters want me dead. Heaven cast him out. But together? We're unstoppable.

"You summoned a fallen angel, little witch. Let me show you why I fell."

I asked for divine protection. I got a fallen angel with black wings and a glowing... y'know. Sometimes prayers are answered better than expected.

Thoughts on Saved by My Demon: When you're being hunted for something outside your control, you're a lot desperate, and you attempt to summon a guardian angel and get a fallen angel instead, I guess you just have to throw caution to the wind, say Screw it and accept that you got the better end of the deal. Especially if the summoned sexiness ends up being your fated mate.

So. Rebecca is dealing with a slight case of being hunted. She's at her wit's end, doesn't expect to live much longer with the way the hunters are escalating, and ends up with a fallen angel as a guardian. A fallen angel who REALLY likes human ladies. Seeing as he's all the physical things Rebecca could want in a male, she's game to get frisky with him.

So they frisk. And then they frisk some more. There is so much frisking and glowing and knotting that they're actually caught in the act when the hunters arrive. Which is maybe great timing on the hunters' part. I don't know. That said, Rebecca and Kayne aren't thrilled with being interrupted.

Enjoyable overall and pretty much what I was looking for when I picked it up.

A Play for Love by Trilina Pucci [Review]

2026-06-05T03:00:00.000-07:00

A Play for Love (The Improbable Meet-Cute: Second Chances #4) by Trilina Pucci
Format: ebook
Source: borrowed through Kindle Unlimited
Disclaimer: As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.
Date read: February 4, 2026

The Improbable Meet-Cute: Second Chances
1. Accidentally Yours
2. Time Will Tell
3. Second Act Romance
4. A Play for Love - Kindle
5. Death to Valentine's Day
6. Valentine's Slay

Related Series:
(find all the books in the series on the 1st book review)
The Improbable Meet-Cute
1. The Exception to the Rule

Trilina Pucci
| Website | Amazon |

Synopsis (Goodreads):

Years ago, during a college production of Romeo and Juliet, Rory and Oliver shared one unforgettable stage kiss before fate pulled them apart. Now, while drowning her Valentine’s Day sorrows at brunch, she spots him: her former Romeo, wearing nothing but gold shorts and wings, playing Cupid for the lovelorn masses. Their chemistry still sizzles, but even with the stars finally aligning, these former leads will need more than Shakespeare’s guidance to turn their second chance into a true romance.

Thoughts on A Play for Love: I'm genuinely enjoying this set of improbable meet-cutes and Rory and Oliver totally hit the spot. They both had crushes on one another in college, but felt like the other was WAY out of their league and so just admired from afar. Then they got teamed up (VERY unexpectedly) for a scene that involved a swoony kiss before going their separate ways.

Fate smiled on them, however, when they both ended up at an oddly themed Italian/Chinese restaurant on V-Day years later. Oliver was bamboozled by his BFF into a pair of gold lame shorts (that sounds just as bad as it probably was) and Rory was on what she thought was a going-away party. Except it wasn't. It was a terrible, horrible, no good date with a guy she had no interest in who'd tricked her by telling her it was a group thing. Dude. No. Just no.

Fortunately, the two of them managed to save one another from what could have been a really bad evening. Seeing as this was Rory's last night in New York, Oliver set out to give her all the touristy fun her little heart desired. And these two? They hit it off. BIG TIME. So when Rory left for California the next day, they kinda sorta did the long distance thing. Until long distance wasn't enough.

A fun, flirty, and star (or maybe comet?) crossed romance! *thumbs up*

Second Act Romance by Julie Soto [Review]

2026-06-04T03:00:00.000-07:00

Second Act Romance (The Improbable Meet-Cute: Second Chances #3) by Julie Soto
Format: ebook
Source: borrowed through Kindle Unlimited
Disclaimer: As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.
Date read: February 3, 2026

The Improbable Meet-Cute: Second Chances
1. Accidentally Yours
2. Time Will Tell
3. Second Act Romance - Kindle
4. A Play for Love
5. Death to Valentine's Day
6. Valentine's Slay

Related Series:
(find all the books in the series on the 1st book review)
The Improbable Meet-Cute
1. The Exception to the Rule

Julie Soto
| Website | Amazon |

Synopsis (Goodreads):

When food poisoning takes out the lead in their Valentine’s Day production of Oklahoma!, TV sensation Colby J. Turner swoops in to save the show. But for leading lady Bex Hardgrave, this last-minute casting is more drama than she bargained for. Eight years ago, their onstage chemistry sparked real-life fireworks—until a misunderstanding brought down the curtain on their budding romance. Now they’re sharing the spotlight again, and their old connection is threatening to steal the show. As showtime approaches, Bex and Colby will have to decide if their second-chance romance deserves its own standing ovation.

Thoughts on Second Act Romance: Shrimp tacos are most definitely on my no-fly list after reading this. I mean, those shrimp tacos almost completed derailed an entire performance. On the other hand, it did bring Colby and Bex back into each others' orbits. So, you know, maybe the shrimp tacos were a force of good disguised as a terrible, terrible experience for most of the cast.

Anywho. Bex and Colby had a moment years before and things could have turned out differently, but circumstances worked against them. Now they're acting with one another in the show that brought them together (thanks to those horrifying shrimp tacos) and...the chemistry's still there.

Another sparkling connection with a dynamite performance by two people who might have missed the boat the first time around, but they're DEFINITELY not going to let it pass them by again. *thumbs up*

Guarded by the Nightmare by Cassie Alexander [Review]

2026-06-03T03:00:00.000-07:00

Guarded by the Nightmare (Monster Security Agency #7) by Cassie Alexander
Format: ebook
Source: borrowed through Kindle Unlimited
Disclaimer: As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.
Date read: January 16, 2026

Monster Security Agency
1. Guarded by the Golem
2. Guarded by the Snake
3. Guarded by the Spider
4. Guarded by the Kraken
5. Guarded by the Leshy
6. Guarded by the Vodnik
7. Guarded by the Nightmare - Paperback | Kindle
8. Guarded by the Reaper
9. Guarded by the Phantom
10. Guarded by the Krampus
11. Guarded by the Yeti
12. Guarded by the AI
13. Guarded by the Symbiote
14. Guarded by the Steel Seraph
15. Guarded by the Clanker

Cassie Alexander
| Website | Amazon |

Synopsis (Goodreads):

No one survives hiring me. Not even her.

I’m a Nightmare, a creature that feeds on fear, and I’m capable of boundless cruelty—which is why my services come at a steep price: the life of the person who hired me. As such, the only people who hire me on are those brought to me by fate, like Mina, a woman so desperate for revenge that she’s willing to spend her own life to get it.

I don’t usually care why I’m hired. Human affairs don’t matter to me. Food is food, and a job is a job.

Mina’s enemies will get what they deserve—and I’ll get what’s mine.

Her beating heart.

Thoughts on Guarded by the Nightmare: I must say I enjoy seeing how these monsters and their special someones end up making things work. I mean, Sylas is a literal Nightmare whose payment is the life of the person who hires him. So, you know, that's ominous and seems like a hard thing to get past in a relationship. Buuuuuuut they somehow make it work. You know, eventually and after a few speedbumps.

But first! Mina steps into MSA to see if she can find out anything about the Hourglass Killer and ends up hiring the monster himself. Well, hire might be a misnomer. Sylas knew Mina was there for him as soon as she stepped through the MSA doors. And his price for helping her is set in stone. Or set on her skin, I guess. Mina has some very specific things she needs to happen and Sylas is more than capable of bringing all her desires to life. Or, uhh, death, I guess. You see, Mina needs a few people killed and she's willing to do anything that needs to be done to make sure it happens.

Sylas is...complicated. He's a Nightmare. He needs to feed. He knows Mina's life is his once he does what he's been hired to do. But she makes him feel things. Things he hasn't felt in a long time. If ever. And she's not AT ALL put off by his darker tendencies. She understands what he is (as much as a human is able to) and she wants to be with him. Which throws Sylas because he's never met someone who wanted him for him, not as a means to an end.

A murderous group of terrible individuals, a best friend in a bad situation, twisted magic, some truly inspired deaths, a Nightmare who is willing to attempt to thwart fate itself, and a lady who had nothing left to lose until she suddenly did. *thumbs up*

The Mermaid in the Shot Glass by Hailey Edwards [Review]

2026-06-02T03:00:00.000-07:00

The Mermaid in the Shot Glass (Groom & Doom #3) by Hailey Edwards
Format: ebook
Source: borrowed through Kindle Unlimited
Disclaimer: As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.
Date read: February 1, 2026

Groom & Doom
1. The Vampire in the Potting Shed
2. The Goblin in the Sink Drain
3. The Mermaid in the Shot Glass - Kindle
4. The Pixie in the Pickle Jar
5. The Ghost in the Pole Barn

Hailey Edwards
| Website | Amazon |

Synopsis (Goodreads):

The time has come for Ana to conquer her doubts about her heritage and discover her inner dragon. Her lessons begin with summoning fire on the shore at Lendman Park, placing a buffer between her fledgling powers and town. Her flames prove eager to please, leaping to her fingertips, but a sudden burst of magic topples her and Rían into the lake. A lake one of the locals swears is inhabited by a mermaid.

Too bad the mermaid lore isn’t the only story making the rounds in Brentwood. Rumor has it that Mercer Bates has challenged Carmichael Sartori for control of the Sartori pack. Ana doesn’t want to care whether Carmichael lives or dies, but our hearts don’t always listen to our heads. And that proves doubly true when someone Ana considers a new friend reveals her true loyalties in an explosive betrayal that shakes the foundation of the Walsh clan.

Thoughts on The Mermaid in the Shot Glass: Oh my goodness. Rian is trying SO HARD to rein in his protective and possessive streak when it comes to Ana because he wants her to have the choice to choose him. Not feel constrained by gratitude or guilt or any of those other pesky emotions that aren't straight up want.

To be fair, Ana does feel the want, but she was treated so terribly by Sartori and his pack that she's having a hard time accepting that the people around her want her for her. Rian liking her throws her. Heck, having Sloane as a friend she can count on throws her, so those deeper emotions she has toward Rian really have her reeling.

On top of all these feeeeelings, Ana and Rian are also dealing with potential changes to the Sartori pack leadership and betrayal from within for the Walsh clan. Oh, and Ana is finally coming into her dragon-ish abilities. Sort of. I mean, they're there. She's having a bit of a struggle controlling them, but they're proof (along with that lovely single scale) that she really is a dragon.

A couple of matchmaking family members, a explosion of power, and some answers to questions Ana was too polite to ask. Things are moving forward for this couple and I'm enjoying their journey A LOT!

Beast Business by Ilona Andrews [Review]

2026-06-01T03:00:00.000-07:00

Beast Business (Hidden Legacy #6.5) by Ilona Andrews
Format: paperback
Source: purchased
Disclaimer: As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.
Date read: February 2, 2026

Hidden Legacy
1. Burn for Me
2. White Hot
3. Wildfire
3.5. Diamond Fire
4. Sapphire Flames
5. Emerald Blaze
6. Ruby Fever
6.5. Beast Business - Paperback | Kindle

Ilona Andrews
| Website | Amazon |

Synopsis (Goodreads):

Show as little as possible. Make them think that illusion is all you have. Your life depends on it.

Augustine Montgomery is an Illusion Prime, the highest rank of magic user. The people who have seen his real face can be counted on the fingers of one hand. The people who've witnessed the full extent of his power are dead. Illusion isn’t just his brand of magic. It’s become his lifestyle.

One day Diana Harrison walks into the office of Augustine’s premier PI corporation. Diana is also a Prime, a mage who bonds with animals through her magic and prefers their company to humans. Something precious has been stolen from House Harrison. Something Diana must recover at all costs before it perishes.

Augustine is cold, rational, and calculating. He doesn’t get emotionally involved, but something about Diana disturbs the careful balance of Augustine’s inner world. She asks for his help, and he can’t refuse.

Neither Augustine nor Diana are who they appear to be. Both would die to keep their secrets. But the enemy they face is unimaginably powerful, and saving the life at risk will demand the ultimate price, one neither ever expected to pay – complete honesty.

Thoughts on Beast Business: I'm having SO MANY thoughts about this story. I mean, AUGUSTINE. Wow. We got to see more than the bare glimpses beneath the illusion that he's allowed before. The guy has layers. Which we might have guessed since Mad Rogan calls him a friend, but those layers have layers and HOO-BOY.

Then there's Diana Harrison. Her brother Cornelius has let slip some of his own deep layers and what he's capable of and Diana brought (some of) what he'd experienced into better focus. When is comes to those she's connected to, Diana is deeply driven and she won't stop until she's completed what she's set out to do.

Let's just say that both Diana and Augustine have worked hard to play down their abilities and pretend they're far less deadly than they actually are. They both wear a carefully crafted mask and for some reason they find themselves dropping those masks around the other.

I honestly can't get enough of this world (even if it's only slightly Baylor adjacent) and I REALLY want to see how Augustine and Diana get over this little bump in the road they've hit.

RtP's Week in Review (05/31/26)

2026-05-31T00:00:00.000-07:00

Reading the Paranormal's Week in Review

Shock at the Sweetheart Ball by London Lovett [Review] - Sunny and crew ONE LAST TIME!
The Final Target by Nora Roberts [Review] - NR brings the danger and romance!
Be Mine by M.L. Philpitt [Review] - Valentine romance with a side of stalking
Accidentally Yours by Christina Lauren [Review] - Accidental meet-cutes FTW!
Time Will Tell by Hannah Bonam-Young [Review] - A time capsule leads to love!
The Hollows by Adrian Blue [Review] - Monster-y sci-fi love!

Bookish Delights

Books added to the pile

None!

Currently reading

Cruel as a Tree by Deiri Di

The Hollows by Adrian Blue [Review]

2026-05-30T03:00:00.000-07:00

The Hollows (Erebos #1) by Adrian Blue
Format: ebook
Source: borrowed through Kindle Unlimited
Disclaimer: As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.
Date read: January 29, 2026

Erebos
1. The Hollows - Kindle

Adrian Blue
| Amazon |

Synopsis (Goodreads):

On the mining planet of Erebos, you are either one of the privileged, or you sell your service contract to the highest bidder. The filth of The Rats or the endless darkness of the mines. As soon as I could, I left behind the leering glances to sell my labor to the mining company. In return, I received an apartment barely large enough for a bed and a sink, fourteen-hour shifts in the darkness, and an early death when my lungs inevitably gave out. It was hardly a fair shake, but nothing on Erebos was fair.

Thoughts on The Hollows: Vera doesn't have a whole lot of choices. She can either live (and sell herself) in The Rats or work in the mines. She chose the mines and BOY does that lead her down a path she wasn't expecting.

When a mine collapse nearly kills her and ends up leaving her stranded with something big and dangerous in the dark, Vera does what anyone would do. She attempts to befriend the creature. Maybe befriend is too strong a word. Let's just say she doesn't want to die in the dark and leave her mother alone, so she attempts to make nice with the big scary thing stalking her.

As it turns out, Anek is intrigued by her. And when she touches him? The big guy isn't adverse to it. In fact, he starts to think that maybe he wouldn't mind getting his hands on her a little more. And mayyyybe she might want that too.

A dangerous job, a predator who follows his instincts (not the eating instincts, the sexier instincts), and a lady who had no idea there was something in the dark who was about to make her his entire world.

Time Will Tell by Hannah Bonam-Young [Review]

2026-05-29T03:00:00.000-07:00

Time Will Tell (The Improbable Meet-Cute: Second Chances #2) by Hannah Bonam-Young
Format: ebook
Source: borrowed through Kindle Unlimited
Disclaimer: As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.
Date read: January 29, 2026

The Improbable Meet-Cute: Second Chances
1. Accidentally Yours
2. Time Will Tell - Kindle
3. Second Act Romance
4. A Play for Love
5. Death to Valentine's Day
6. Valentine's Slay

Related Series:
(find all the books in the series on the 1st book review)
The Improbable Meet-Cute
1. The Exception to the Rule

Hannah Bonam-Young
| Website | Amazon |

Synopsis (Goodreads):

When a history teacher receives a letter from her deceased grandmother revealing a secret love affair in the 1950s, it leads her to a time capsule hidden decades ago. But it’s the charming grandson of her grandmother’s lost love who changes everything, proving that sometimes the heart knows exactly where—and when—it belongs.

Thoughts on Time Will Tell: A letter from her deceased grandmother telling Georgia (and her family) about her grandmother's great love and instructing her to retrieve a time capsule starts a chain of events that rocks Georgia's world. In the best way.

Soon she's trading flirty emails and getting to know the grandson of her grandmother's love and things are progressing. Quickly. Because sometime a person just knows when they've met their other half. They might be separated by an ocean, but Georgia and Callum hit it off early on and they both start imagining a life with the other in it.

Sweet and fun with a side of mildly awkward flirting (barely any awkward at all, I'm sure!), I reaaaaaallllly liked this one.

Accidentally Yours by Christina Lauren [Review]

2026-05-28T03:00:00.000-07:00

Accidentally Yours (The Improbable Meet-Cute: Second Chances #1) by Christina Lauren
Format: ebook
Source: borrowed through Kindle Unlimited
Disclaimer: As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.
Date read: January 28, 2026

The Improbable Meet-Cute: Second Chances
1. Accidentally Yours - Kindle
2. Time Will Tell
3. Second Act Romance
4. A Play for Love
5. Death to Valentine's Day
6. Valentine's Slay

Related Series:
(find all the books in the series on the 1st book review)
The Improbable Meet-Cute
1. The Exception to the Rule

Christina Lauren
| Website | Amazon |

Synopsis (Goodreads):

When marketing consultant Veronica accidentally crashes the wrong Zoom meeting and brutally critiques their presentation, she’s shocked to receive a job offer from the company’s intriguing CEO. Their professional email exchanges quickly turn flirty, but Veronica’s mind keeps drifting to her reserved but gorgeous new neighbor. As Valentine’s Day approaches, she’ll discover that sometimes the most improbable meet-cute can lead to the perfect match.

Thoughts on Accidentally Yours: I must say I really enjoyed the previous set of meet-cutes and I'm READY for a new batch. First up we have Veronica and hunky Jude.

Jude is intrigued enough by Veronica's cutting assessment of their marketing strategy after a few short minutes of seeing what his team was presenting to reach out and see if she'd be interested in a consulting job. Veronica is still feeling the burn from the last tech-bro company she worked at and she's not interested. Except she also kind of is. I mean, it's right in her wheelhouse, but she wants to stay away from the tech-bro culture.

Except...Jude isn't all tech-bro-y. He's a little overwhelmed by his unexpectedly new position and a lot intriguing and his email banter works for Veronica in all the best ways. Negotiations turn into flirting which turns into maybe something more and it is FANTASTIC. Just *thumbs up* all around.

Be Mine by M.L. Philpitt [Review]

2026-05-27T03:00:00.000-07:00

Be Mine (Twisted Holidays #4) by M.L. Philpitt
Format: ebook
Source: borrowed through Kindle Unlimited
Disclaimer: As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.
Date read: January 26, 2026

Twisted Holidays
1. Silent Night
2. Egg Hunt
3. Fright Night
4. Be Mine - Kindle
5. Wicked Heat
6. Midnight Kiss
7. Lucky Clover

M.L. Philpitt
| Website | Amazon |

Synopsis (Goodreads):

People assume gifts and flowers are the way into their girl’s heart, but they’re wrong. It’s all about baring your soul and proving your obsession—that it’s not only about owning their heart, but the rest of them too.

My obsession began with my pen pal, whose letters became my entire world while locked behind bars. Then she visited and I was a goner.

She becomes my sweetheart. My newest fixation. My everything.

Until, on Valentine’s Day, she ends our relationship through another letter and forces me to be without her.

One year later, I’m free. Free and ready to prove how I’m the man meant to protect, cherish, and love her.

Sweetheart, I’m back…

Thoughts on Be Mine: When Aspen joins the prison pen pal program, she plans to use it to gather first hand information on isolation for her thesis. What she doesn't expect? To LIKE the inmate she's partnered with. But she does. She likes Cade's letters and the way he looks at her. However, she wonders if he's only looking at her like that because she's a bridge to the outside and the first woman he's interacted with in a while.

What she doesn't realize is that Cade is all in from her first letter. Meeting her put a face to the words, but he was already committed. So when he gets out, he immediately goes looking for the woman who gave him something to focus on during the last year of his incarceration.

While this sounds like it could be a recipe for disaster, Aspen hasn't been able to stop thinking about Cade since she left the pen pal program. The last year has been rough as she's tried to move on. Having him suddenly slide back into her life like he does is shocking and thrilling and she SHOULD maybe be a little worried about how easily he's been able to break into her apartment, but she's not. Well, mostly not. Let's just say she likes the guy and his possessive ways and once they start clearing the air things really start happening between them.

A little stalking (in an ultimately consensual way), more than a few steamy kisses, and a few relationshippy speedbumps these two need to work through (very few, actually. They fit well together). *thumbs up*

The Final Target by Nora Roberts [Review]

2026-05-26T03:00:00.000-07:00

The Final Target by Nora Roberts
Format: ebook
Source: provided through NetGalley
Disclaimer: As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.
Date read: May 4, 2026

Purchase Links: Hardcover | Kindle

Nora Roberts
| Website | Amazon |

Synopsis (Goodreads):

He showed up at Arden Bowie’s debut author appearance with a copy of her novel and an eager smile. He showered her with compliments and got her autograph. Then he came to her next event. And the one after that.

Dustin was just an aspiring writer who wanted advice, Arden reassured herself. But after giving in to one of his incessant invitations and chatting with him over coffee, she discovered that ignoring her inner alarm bell had been a terrible mistake…

An introvert at heart, Arden had long craved solitude—but now, after a harrowing assault, she finds herself hiding behind locked doors and startling at every sound. And her relief at his imprisonment is tempered by anxiety when Dustin’s wealthy mother helps to get him a paltry five-year sentence at a psychiatric facility.

Arden decides to write a new story for herself, moving to a tiny Oregon town and befriending Gideon, an ex-LAPD detective. But while she learns to thrive, Dustin remains his delusional, twisted self, as fixated as ever and now seething with anger. He still believes Arden's purpose on earth is to serve and please him. And his job is to protect her. But who will protect her from him?

Thoughts on The Final Target: Achieving her dream of being published comes with a heaping side of terror when Arden is targeted by a man who has decided she's the perfect woman for him. When things take a dangerous turn, Arden fights back and survives a harrowing attack. Then she has to put herself back together a piece at a time because she refuses to let her attacker steal the life she dreamed of.

Fortunately for Arden, she has a strong support system. Between the aunt and uncle who raised her after her parents died and the cousins who welcomed her into their family with open arms, she has good people around her. She's also good at making solid connections with people she meets. Connections that have them stepping in to help her when she needs it most.

When she relocates to Oregon, one of the connections she makes is with Gideon and his grandfather. Gideon who is a former LAPD detective and knows there's something in Arden's past, but doesn't want to pry. Gideon who lights her up in ways no one else does. Soon these two are romancing and smooching in all the best ways.

One delusional, manipulative man, a whole lot of found family, a welcoming town, an ex-detective who will burn down the world for the woman he loves, and a lady who refuses to let one terrible moment break her. GOOD STUFF.

Shock at the Sweetheart Ball by London Lovett [Review]

2026-05-25T03:00:00.000-07:00

Shock at the Sweetheart Ball (Firefly Junction #20) by London Lovett
Format: ebook
Source: purchased
Disclaimer: As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.
Date read: January 28, 2026

Firefly Junction Mystery
1. Death in the Park
2. Killer Bridal Party
3. Murder at the Inn
4. A Humbug Holiday
5. Calamity at the Carnival
6. Double Trouble
7. Havoc at Wildwood Manor
8. Fatal Feud
9. Trick or Trouble
10. A Crafty Killing
11. Death at the Museum
12. Murder at the Pumpkin Patch
13. Founders' Day Fiasco
14. Heat Wave Homicide
15. Terror at Thornbridge Hotel
16. Chocolate Festival Felony
17. Movie Night Madness
18. Figgy Pudding Disaster
19. Apple Cider Assault
20. Shock at the Sweetheart Ball - Paperback | Kindle

Related Series:
(find all the books in the series on the 1st book review)
Port Danby
1. Marigolds and Murder

London Lovett
| Website | Amazon |

Synopsis (Goodreads):

Firefly Junction residents are abuzz with excitement for the town’s annual Sweetheart Ball. Local reporter Sunni Taylor is both covering the story and looking forward to attending the dance with her own sweetheart, Detective Brady Jackson. Ruby Orson, a member of the city council and a local interior decorator, is in charge of this year’s event, and she’s been gathering a flurry of enemies along the way. When Ruby winds up dead, Sunni switches gears on her story. Instead of covering the event, she needs to find a killer. But Ruby has so many enemies, it’s hard to narrow down the suspect list.

In the meantime, so much is happening in Sunni’s personal life, she hardly knows which way to turn. The murder is important but not nearly as stunning and life-changing as the things happening back at home. It seems Sunni Taylor is about to start a very new chapter in her career and life.

Thoughts on Shock at the Sweetheart Ball: I will admit to having a love/hate relationship with the end of a series. I hate to see a series end when I've enjoyed it as much as I've enjoyed this one, but I do love when all those loose ends get tied up. Not that there were a TON of loose ends here, but we got resolution on THINGS and YESSSS!

First off, Sunni is doing her thing and helping investigate an unexpected death. To be fair, the death might not have been THAT unexpected since the person who met their untimely end was kind of horrible. In every way. Which means there were a fair amount of suspects. While Jax is doing his official investigating, he and Sunni are comparing notes and sliding potential clues at one another for follow-up. Which is cute. Because the couple who sleuths together and all that.

That said, Sunni and Jax did hit a bit of a bump in their relationship. Of the "are things going to move forward" variety. Jax has some hang ups about Edward's presence. Sunni is a little miffed that the thought of them taking the next step seems to spook Jax. It's something they both have to deal with and they do. Eventually.

A little mysticism, a long-awaited meeting, some relationship shenanigans, and a really sweet ending. Like I said, I'm sad to say goodbye, but I'm happy with how everything turned out.

RtP's Week in Review (05/24/26)

2026-05-24T00:00:00.000-07:00

Reading the Paranormal's Week in Review

Worst Wingman Ever by Abby Jimenez [Review] - A Valentine's mix-up!
Rosie and the Dreamboat by Sally Thorne [Review] - Galentine's shenanigans!
Drop, Cover, and Hold On by Jasmine Guillory [Review] - A Valentine's earthquake!
With Any Luck by Ashley Poston [Review] - Bachelorette party shenanigans!
Royal Valentine by Sariah Wilson [Review] - Royal shenanigans!
Maid for the Goblin King by H.C. Summer [Review] - Goblin love!

Bookish Delights

Books added to the pile

None!

Currently reading

White Hot by Ilona Andrews

Maid for the Goblin King by H.C. Summer [Review]

2026-05-23T03:00:00.000-07:00

Maid for the Goblin King by H.C. Summer
Format: ebook
Source: borrowed through Kindle Unlimited
Disclaimer: As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.
Date read: January 26, 2026

Purchase Links: Kindle

H.C. Summer
| Amazon |

Synopsis (Goodreads):

I ran to escape a husband I didn't choose, taking up work among goblins. But I certainly never expected to fall to my knees for a monster.

King Rhazin is massive and merciless, his voice commanding obedience while his eyes promise ruin. The second they find me, I know he doesn't just want my service, but my surrender too.
I should run.
I should beg for mercy.
But when his claws find me and lay claim to me with wicked promises, I don't know how much longer I can resist.

Thoughts on Maid for the Goblin King: I'm not going to lie, I picked this one up for the cover because I have a weakness for muscley monsters. It was pretty much exactly what I was expecting in that is had a muscled goblin king tangling the sheets (although possibly no sheets were actually tangled. The bathroom tile was shown a good time, though) with a sweet human lady.

Rhazin is commanding, doesn't mind PDAs, and enjoys making Judith speechless. Judith is trying to keep her head down and do a good job in the goblin stronghold so she doesn't get sent away where she might end up back with her parents who are trying to marry her off to someone she is NOT interested in. As it turns out, the type she is interested in is a growly king who is very much a giver.

Short, nicely naughty, and with a whole lot of muscles on display.

Royal Valentine by Sariah Wilson [Review]

2026-05-22T03:00:00.000-07:00

Royal Valentine (The Improbable Meet-Cute #6) by Sariah Wilson
Format: ebook
Source: borrowed through Kindle Unlimited
Disclaimer: As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.
Date read: January 26, 2026

The Improbable Meet-Cute
1. The Exception to the Rule
2. Worst Wingman Ever
3. Rosie and the Dreamboat
4. Drop, Cover, and Hold On
5. With Any Luck
6. Royal Valentine - Kindle

Related Series:
(find all the books in the series on the 1st book review)
The Improbable Meet-Cute: Second Chances
1. Accidentally Yours

Sariah Wilson
| Website | Amazon |

Synopsis (Goodreads):

Princess Ilaria has had it up to her tiara with the paparazzi, her own wild reputation, and the public eye. Trading places with her assistant, Ilaria wants just one blissfully ordinary weekend. Then a handsome photographer with a sexy Scottish burr offers to be her guide. Sparks fly, but how long can they last? Ilaria’s secret has to come out—and it could ruin a perfectly serendipitous romance.

Thoughts on Royal Valentine: Wanting to spend a few days doing all the normal touristy things a tourist might do, Ilaria convinces her assistant to swap places with her. Accidentally drugging herself and passing out wasn't on Ilaria's bingo card, but then neither was getting rescued (although she doesn't remember that part) by a sexy Scottish photographer.

As it turns out, spending time as a tourist is incredibly fun when you have a hunky tour guide and nobody knows you're a princess. Sure, Ilaria might be holding onto a bit of a secret, but sexy Callum might have a secret or two of his own. So it's all fair, RIGHT?

Fun, quick, and I really like the callback to book 1. *thumbs up*

With Any Luck by Ashley Poston [Review]

2026-05-21T03:00:00.000-07:00

With Any Luck (The Improbable Meet-Cute #5) by Ashley Poston
Format: ebook
Source: borrowed through Kindle Unlimited
Disclaimer: As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.
Date read: January 26, 2026

The Improbable Meet-Cute
1. The Exception to the Rule
2. Worst Wingman Ever
3. Rosie and the Dreamboat
4. Drop, Cover, and Hold On
5. With Any Luck - Kindle
6. Royal Valentine

Related Series:
(find all the books in the series on the 1st book review)
The Improbable Meet-Cute: Second Chances
1. Accidentally Yours

Ashley Poston
| Website | Amazon |

Synopsis (Goodreads):

Audrey Love is cursed to be the person before you find your soulmate, the girl you dump for your true love. So when her best friend disappears hours before his Valentine’s Day wedding, Audrey fears that she did the unthinkable and kissed him at last night’s bachelor party. With help from the best man, she retraces her steps to find the missing groom and, with any luck, a true love of her own.

Thoughts on With Any Luck: The entire Love family is great at helping others find their true love (with the help of a kiss), but not so great at find solid relationships for themselves. So when Audrey's BFF goes missing the day of his wedding, Audrey thinks the worst. She kissed him and he left his fiancée at the altar.

Seeing at parts of the bachelor party are a bit of a blur and she can't *exactly* remember everything that happened, her fears might be founded.

Enter the bride's maid of honor. Who happens to be a guy that Audrey doesn't quite get along with. As they search for the missing groom, Audrey comes to see that maybe she and Theo aren't as different as she thought. And mayyyybe she needs to step outside her a comfort zone a little while also holding onto the superstition that her kiss helps others find their true love.

Drop, Cover, and Hold On by Jasmine Guillory [Review]

2026-05-20T03:00:00.000-07:00

Drop, Cover, and Hold On (The Improbable Meet-Cute #4) by Jasmine Guillory
Format: ebook
Source: borrowed through Kindle Unlimited
Disclaimer: As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.
Date read: January 25, 2026

The Improbable Meet-Cute
1. The Exception to the Rule
2. Worst Wingman Ever
3. Rosie and the Dreamboat
4. Drop, Cover, and Hold On - Kindle
5. With Any Luck
6. Royal Valentine

Related Series:
(find all the books in the series on the 1st book review)
The Improbable Meet-Cute: Second Chances
1. Accidentally Yours

Jasmine Guillory
| Website | Amazon |

Synopsis (Goodreads):

This Valentine’s Day, Daisy Murray has her heart set on binge-watching rom-coms. Instead, an earthquake traps her inside a bakery with its impossibly rude and insufferably handsome owner and head baker. They already have a history: she’s always smiled, he’s always scowled. Where better to finally get to know each other than amid the disaster? Then again, they have no choice. Besides, it could have its sweet, undeniable, and unpredictable perks.

Thoughts on Drop, Cover, and Hold On: A scowly bakery shop owner and the perpetually sunny woman who just can't help but love his creations are up next and BOY do Daisy and Harris have a few things they need to work out. Namely that Harris's scowls aren't indicative of his feelings. As it turns out, Daisy thinks he hates her because of his resting murder face and that's FAR from the truth.

Fortunately for both of them, Daisy decides to treat herself on V-Day and walks into Harris's bakery moments before an earthquake hits and traps them inside. Being forced to be around one another leads to some truths coming out. Truths such as Harris is always delighted to see her (his face just doesn't show it) and those extra pastries he always slips into her bag aren't because he can't count. Yup, our guy is wooing her with pastries. GLORIOUS!

One heart to heart later, a kiss or two in full view of anybody who might have walked by, and some decadent treats and these two are hitting all the right notes. *thumbs up*

Rosie and the Dreamboat by Sally Thorne [Review]

2026-05-19T03:00:00.000-07:00

Rosie and the Dreamboat (The Improbable Meet-Cute #3) by Sally Thorne
Format: ebook
Source: borrowed through Kindle Unlimited
Disclaimer: As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.
Date read: January 25, 2026

The Improbable Meet-Cute
1. The Exception to the Rule
2. Worst Wingman Ever
3. Rosie and the Dreamboat - Kindle
4. Drop, Cover, and Hold On
5. With Any Luck
6. Royal Valentine

Related Series:
(find all the books in the series on the 1st book review)
The Improbable Meet-Cute: Second Chances
1. Accidentally Yours

Sally Thorne
| Website | Amazon |

Synopsis (Goodreads):

Rosie Whittaker and her sister are up for some Galentine’s pampering at a day spa. Getting locked inside a flotation tank is so Rosie. Enter a firefighter hero determined to pry this luckless pearl out of her high-tech shell. All Rosie has to go on is a dreamy voice and a flirty sense of humor. Remain calm, Rosie. This could be what you’ve been waiting for. Is this the man she’s waited for her whole life?

Thoughts on Rosie and the Dreamboat: Rosie's the type of person where if something's going to happen, it's going to happen to her. She seems to take it all in stride and can crack jokes about the things with the best of them, but it also sort of wears on her. As in, she knows she's going to be the one who has to deal with SOMETHING and that makes her fall short in her mind when she compares herself to her sister.

So when she gets trapped in an isolation tank when treating her sister to a spa day...well, she's not surprised. I mean, she is surprised, because no one expects to get trapped in an isolation tank. But if it was going to happen to someone, it was going to happen to her. She also happens to have forgotten her bathing suit, so she's naked in the tank. Naked. And firefighters are going to have to pry her out.

YIKES!

On the up side, the firefighter who's keeping her company (from the outside of the tank) during all this is funny, sweet, and has a laugh that makes her see colors. He likes her quippy banter, can give back the quips like a champ, and seems ready to take on anyone who's wronged her.

Meeting someone while trapped naked in an isolation tank doesn't seem like a path most would take, but it works for Rosie.

Worst Wingman Ever by Abby Jimenez [Review]

2026-05-18T03:00:00.000-07:00

Worst Wingman Ever (The Improbable Meet-Cute #2) by Abby Jimenez
Format: ebook
Source: borrowed through Kindle Unlimited
Disclaimer: As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.
Date read: January 25, 2026

The Improbable Meet-Cute
1. The Exception to the Rule
2. Worst Wingman Ever - Kindle
3. Rosie and the Dreamboat
4. Drop, Cover, and Hold On
5. With Any Luck
6. Royal Valentine

Related Series:
(find all the books in the series on the 1st book review)
The Improbable Meet-Cute: Second Chances
1. Accidentally Yours

Abby Jimenez
| Website | Amazon |

Synopsis (Goodreads):

Holly is dealing with the impending death of her grandmother and still reeling from a bad breakup. One bright spot: a Valentine’s Day card on Holly’s windshield—even if it wasn’t meant for her. An amusing mistake soon turns into a lovely exchange of anonymous notes, little acts of kindness, and a growing affection between two strangers. What happens when one of them has to say goodbye?

Thoughts on Worst Wingman Ever: Oh, gosh. I'm am LIKING the improbability of these meet-cutes. They are seriously so adorable.

This time around, we have John, who puts his brother's Valentine for his girlfriend on the wrong car, and Holly, who owns the car that received the incorrect Valentine. He's trying to find his footing after a kinda big breakup. She's dealing with the stress of watching a loved one die. Feeling guilty about giving a stranger a slightly inappropriate Valentine, John writes her a note apologizing. Holly responds. Soon they're interacting via notes and small gifts. It's sweet and both of them need the interactions for different reasons.

And when they meet? MAN, I liked it. Improbable? Maybe. Enjoyable? DEFINITELY.

RtP's Week in Review (05/17/26)

2026-05-17T00:00:00.000-07:00

Reading the Paranormal's Week in Review

Guarded by the Leshy by Cara Wylde [Review] - Monster love!
So My Ex-Boyfriend is a Serial Killer by Kylie Scott [Review] - Romance while dealing with a serial killer ex!
Guarded by the Vodnik by Layla Fae [Review] - More monster love!
Alien Song by Honey Phillips [Review] - Sci-fi romance!!
The Exception to the Rule by Christina Lauren [Review] - Romance over email!
Claimed in the Woods by Lisa Freed [Review] - Werewolf love!

Bookish Delights

Books added to the pile

Never and Always (Langston Hotels #3) by Anna Hackett

Currently reading

Exit Strategy by Martha Wells

Claimed in the Woods by Lisa Freed [Review]

2026-05-16T03:00:00.000-07:00

Claimed in the Woods (Monsters in the Woods) by Lisa Freed
Format: ebook
Source: borrowed through Kindle Unlimited
Disclaimer: As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.
Date read: January 19, 2026

Monsters in the Woods
1. Claimed in the Woods - Kindle
2. Autumn in the Woods
3. Demon in the Woods
4. Mated in the Woods
5. Wrecked in the Woods
6. Desired in the Woods
7. Sassed in the Woods
8. Wiled in the Woods
9. S/layed in the Woods
10. Caught in the Woods
11. Shadows in the Woods
12. Bitten in the Woods
13. Hunted in the Woods
14. Craving in the Woods
15. Vampire in the Woods
16. Surprised in the Woods
17. Spooked in the Woods

Lisa Freed
| Website | Amazon |

Synopsis (Goodreads):

Can a shy werewolf claim the mate he’s always wanted?

RAY
I was a lonely werewolf until I stumbled across her lost and alone in the woods. A downpour, a tent, and one sleeping bag is the perfect set-up to claim her. I’d love nothing more than to whisk her away to my home in the monster-side of town, but she’s a human woman who doesn’t believe in things that go bump in the night. She thinks I’m just a regular guy. Will she run when she knows the truth?

CARRIE
After I get fired my aunt offers me her camp site to unwind and decompress. Expecting a scenic cabin or an RV with a fully stocked bar, I’m less than impressed when I find her site is just a ratty tent in the middle of mosquito-infested woods. When I manage to get hopelessly lost on a hike, I’m resigned to become just another missing person. Then Mr. Tall, Dark, and Dreamy comes to my rescue and suddenly this trip is looking up. I want to get closer to him, but I can’t shake the feeling that he’s hiding something.

His heart is hers, but can she willingly submit to a werewolf’s claim?

Thoughts on Claimed in the Woods: A shy sweetheart of a werewolf who escapes his overbearing pack brothers with frequent trips to the woods and a lady who is REALLY outside her comfort zone in the great outdoors. They don't seem like they would work, but Ray knows Carrie is his as soon as he scents her and Carrie likes the big guy the moment they meet (well, after she gets over the knee jerk reaction of thinking he might be a serial killer).

The biggest roadblock for these two is that Ray is a werewolf and Carrie doesn't know monsters exist. Which means she doesn't know werewolves are real. The second biggest roadblock? Ray's shyness. The big guy has a hard time reaching for what he wants (fortunately Carrie is good with going for it) and then he has a hard time telling Carrie he wants to spend more time with her. Basically, he's not great at communicating verbally. He does okay once things start moving in a physical direction, but the lead up is a little touch and go.

A dismal campground, only one tent, a werewolf who knows his other half at first sniff, and a lady who has a lot to wrap her head around before she and Ray can have their HEA. *thumbs up*

The Exception to the Rule by Christina Lauren [Review]

2026-05-15T03:00:00.000-07:00

The Exception to the Rule (The Improbable Meet-Cute #1) by Christina Lauren
Format: ebook
Source: borrowed through Kindle Unlimited
Disclaimer: As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.
Date read: January 24, 2026

The Improbable Meet-Cute
1. The Exception to the Rule - Kindle
2. Worst Wingman Ever
3. Rosie and the Dreamboat
4. Drop, Cover, and Hold On
5. With Any Luck
6. Royal Valentine

Related Series:
(find all the books in the series on the 1st book review)
The Improbable Meet-Cute: Second Chances
1. Accidentally Yours

Christina Lauren
| Website | Amazon |

Synopsis (Goodreads):

One typo, and a boy and girl connect by chance. Wishing each other a happy Valentine’s Day isn’t the end. In fact, it becomes a friendly annual tradition—with rules: no pics, no real names, nothing too personal. As years pass, the rules for their email “dates” are breaking, and they’re sharing more than they imagined—including the urge to ask…what if we actually met?

Thoughts on The Exception to the Rule: Oh MAN, I liked this one. Two individuals who become once a year email pen pals thanks to a mistyped email addy one Valentine's Day WORKED for me. T & C keep their identities secret since they're both minors when they accidentally meet and they sort of carry this anonymity through their ten year correspondence. That's right, ten years of emails on V-Day without knowing exactly who's on the other end, but both sort of crushing on the other thanks to the hints that were unwitting dropped over the years.

Straight up, YES! And the way they find one another! YES! And then the meet up once they knooooowwwww. Yeah, I'm smitten. THESE TWO. WONDERFUL!