The Cozy Reading Corner

Book Review: Beautiful Prey by Lola Malone

noreply@blogger.com (Kristen) — Thu, 22 Oct 2026 10:17:14 +0000

Title: Beautiful Prey

Author: Lola Malone

Release Date: October 22, 2026

Synopsis: Discover the next world in the Reach.

Every planet has its own secrets. Every love story comes at a price.

When a desperate young man enters the Hunt—a brutal competition where elimination means losing everything—he expects to fight for survival.

He doesn't expect to become the obsession of the man every family hopes will choose their son.

As the Hunt grows deadlier and every trial threatens to send him home in disgrace, one thing becomes terrifyingly

The only man capable of protecting him may also be the one he should fear most.

Beautiful Prey is a dark M/M romance featuring obsession, forced proximity, deadly trials, and an unforgettable love story.

Review: This book had a lot of potential! It had tropes and character archetypes I loved, along with a fascinating world. But it couldn't fully hit five star status for me due to some clunky writing, odd repetitions, and the need for a tighter edit. There were some plot points that didn't quite make sense because it felt like the author had forgotten what they wrote earlier. But I still really enjoyed my time with these characters and I'm intrigued enough to check out any sequels that may come out in the future.

An ARC was provided by the author for review.

Rating: 3/5 stars

Book Review: Heat Lightning by A. Knightley

noreply@blogger.com (Kristen) — Wed, 30 Sep 2026 10:16:51 +0000

Title: Heat Lightning

Author: A. Knightley

Release Date: September 30, 2026

Synopsis: Max

Having a stalker should be thrilling in a ‘run for the hills screaming’ kind of way, not a ‘lights me up from the inside’ kind of way. Alas, here we are. To my great dismay, I want to climb that big, scary, masked man like a tree. But seriously, can I be blamed? Have you seen him?

My life has always been black and white, good and bad, right and wrong—but my Masked Man revels in the gray. He kills bad guys. Which should terrify me, except it only adds to the magnetic pull that reels me in time and again. He’s my stalker, my rescuer, my alpha, and my soul's deepest, darkest desire. Even still, he insists on keeping secrets. And when I finally find out the truth?

They become life or death.

How much can I overlook for the man who makes my omega scream, mate, mate, mate?

The Masked Man

I’m a hunter—a killer. I live by a simple set of rules, and I don’t break them. Playing the hero? Not interested.

Until him.

From the very first moment, the omega calls to me. His cautious curiosity makes my alpha’s mouth water, aching to bite and claim. He’s mine. Mine to hunt, mine to protect, mine to watch.

But never mine to have.

So, I’ll do everything—and I mean everything—in my power to keep him safe, even if that means longing from the shadows forever.

Heat Lightning is an omegaverse romance that is dark, cozy, and full of heat, featuring a morally gray, masked vigilante alpha and the omega he will protect at all costs. This is a non-shifter story with no Mpreg (but possible in world).

Review: This book literally had me kicking my feet and twirling my hair. I adored the characters and their developing relationship (the spice was spicing). We don't often get this specific trope in m/m romance, so that was a sweet treat. The writing was top-notch, the story well-done, and I'm excited to see what else is to come in this fascinating omegaverse world.

And shout-out to that gorgeous cover, because it was the very first thing to catch my eye.

An ARC was provided by the author for review.

Rating: 5/5 stars

Book Review: Omega Offside by Grey Crowe

noreply@blogger.com (Kristen) — Fri, 04 Sep 2026 05:53:13 +0000

Title: Omega Offside

Author: Grey Crowe

Series: Hockey Heats #1

Release Date: September 4, 2026

Synopsis: Cody Wallace is pretty used to the pain of his heats. He doesn’t have the option to not work or play through them and his inhibitors keep him from losing his mind, so he grits his teeth and bears it until his heat has run its course. Besides, the press—and many hockey fans—don’t care for an omega in the NHL. So Cody has to be the bigger person. Always.

At least the guys on Cody’s team, the Detroit Cougars, have never treated him any differently for being an omega. Even when Cody was a rookie, the Cougars had been welcoming. Especially Leo Blanter, the captain of the Cougars. Leo has such a calming presence and is so free with his praise and he’s always looking out for Cody. Cody counts himself lucky that they’re such good friends.

When Cody’s heat comes early during an away game, he takes his inhibitors and plays the game like normal. But the heat pain following the game is unlike anything he’s ever experienced before.

And a terrified Cody doesn't know if he can weather this heat on his own.

Review: This book was a bit unconventional in that we jumped straight into the action, our heroes loved each other (and confessed) right away, there was no miscommunication, no major fight or conflict. And I was thoroughly enjoying every minute of it! Something about this story was immediately addictive. And it would have been picture perfect if not for the unresolved bit about the doctor visit and getting answers regarding Cody's health. Add that one missing scene, and you've got a winning novella.

An ARC was provided by the author for review.

Rating: 4/5 stars

Book Review: Edge of Mercy Allie Therin

noreply@blogger.com (Kristen) — Tue, 23 Jun 2026 11:39:55 +0000

Title: Edge of Mercy

Author: Allie Therin

Series: Sugar & Vice #3

Release Date: June 23, 2026

Synopsis: In this fight, feelings are the most dangerous weapon of all.

In the gripping conclusion to Allie Therin’s slow burn urban fantasy MM romance series, an empath and an empath hunter face off as the fate of an alternate-universe Seattle—and their own future—hang in the balance.

Caught in the crosshairs of a deadly conspiracy, empath Reece Davies was forced to embrace his darker nature to protect the enemy he’d fallen for. Now, joining forces with others like him, drawn to chaos and vengeance by the corruption in his veins, Reece is being hunted…by the very man he saved.

Evan Grayson, a notorious empath hunter known as the Dead Man, was engineered to never falter from his mission—until he met Reece. Even corruption can’t cool their desire for each other, but with Reece’s dark side in control and all of Seattle at stake, Grayson must stop him, no matter the personal cost.

As the battle between the two enemies heats up, so does their forbidden attraction. But the danger is growing and closing in on them from all sides. Because Grayson isn’t the only one hunting the empaths—and they both may have finally met their match…

Review: I've waited four long years to get this book in my hands, and it was entirely worth the wait. I fell in love with Reece and Evan the first time I met them back in Liar City and each subsequent book has just reaffirmed all my feelings. I am enchanted by the alternate universe, full cast of characters, and thrilling plot Allie Therin created. I could read a hundred more books in this world, but I am utterly satisfied by the ending we received. I cannot wait to see what this author does next, because I'm already fully on board.

An ARC was provided by NetGalley.

Rating: 5/5 stars

Book Review: The Consort's Curse by Eliot Grayson

noreply@blogger.com (Kristen) — Sun, 14 Jun 2026 15:53:33 +0000

Title: The Consort's Curse

Author: Eliot Grayson

Series: Twilight Mages #4

Release Date: June 11, 2026

Synopsis: An unwanted consort, an unwilling pawn…

Locked away in an abbey since his magic manifested, Remi’s never known the touch of another man, averting his dawn mage’s curse with a potion that keeps him alive—but prevents him from truly living. When he’s whisked off to the glittering, worldly Calatrian capital and forced to marry a lord he’s never met, his only hope is that his new husband won’t use him and his magic too cruelly.

Suddenly recalled from his diplomatic posting, Stefan finds himself embroiled in another of his powerful father’s political plots. His demure, delicate consort is painfully chaste, heartbreakingly beautiful, almost certainly an unscrupulous liar—and precisely calculated to wrap Stefan around his pretty little finger.

Stefan refuses to be drawn in by his wiles. He won’t touch him unless absolutely necessary. Won’t taste his alluring sweetness. And he absolutely will not sate his ever-growing obsession with claiming what belongs to him.

No matter the cost…

The Consort’s Curse is the fourth book in the Twilight Mages series, and some characters from book three appear, but it can be read as a standalone. As in every book, there is an HEA. Life’s unreliable enough. Extra happy endings in a romance should be guaranteed!

Review: This series is highly addictive, and so I was absolutely buzzing when I got my hands on The Consort's Curse. Eliot Grayson has created a fascinating world and magic system, and continues to make characters that you can't help but fall in love with. (And who can't help but fall for each other.) Remi and Stefan were perfect together, and I adored watching their arranged marriage develop into a real relationship. I pray to Ennolu, this is not the last book in the Twilight Mages saga.

An ARC was provided by the author for review.

Rating: 5/5 stars

Book Review: Safe by Rina Saint

noreply@blogger.com (Kristen) — Fri, 01 May 2026 14:07:30 +0000

Title: Safe

Author: Rina Saint

Series: Constantine Brothers #3

Release Date: May 1, 2026

Synopsis: For years, I wasn’t human and didn’t want to be. It was easier to be the Beast, pacing in my cage until my handlers let me out to fight. I didn’t speak, didn’t have a name. My existence was brutal, but it was simple. I understood it. Accepted it.

But everything changed when Lucas was thrown into my cage with me, when I claimed him as my own—when I realized I would do anything to protect him. That meant getting us out, to somewhere safe.

And that’s what I did. That’s where we are now, in a good, safe place. Except, it doesn’t feel good to me. I don’t belong here. Nothing about me makes sense here.

I’m trying to make it work. I want Lucas to be happy. But the past keeps intruding, and the problem is … I want it to. I make sense in that dark space. But Lucas doesn’t, and I don’t want him there. So what the hell am I supposed to do?

Review: Oh, my sweet little baby Roman. I absolutely adored Possession and was immensely excited to get more Roman and Lucas. This novella was a real-world look into the aftereffects of trauma. It was heavy, but it was also hopeful. And through it all, their relationship and love was a beacon guiding Roman out of the darkness. I, for one, would love to get even more of these boys in the future—in a healthier and happier headspace that I know is right around the corner.

An ARC was provided by the author.

Rating: 5/5 stars

Book Review: Charming Puckboy by Eden Finley & Saxon James

noreply@blogger.com (Kristen) — Thu, 16 Apr 2026 10:15:32 +0000

Title: Charming Puckboy

Authors: Eden Finley & Saxon James

Series: Puckboys #10

Release Date: April 26, 2026

Synopsis: LACHIE

It doesn’t matter that I was the number one draft pick in the NHL or that I’m projected to be the next great generational player, because none of it is enough to impress my childhood crush back in my hometown.

Sam used to mock me for being like a Disney Princess with my uncanny knack for finding animals in need. And being home in Colorado for the summer, I’m bound to run into him now that he runs the animal shelter where I used to volunteer. Where I used to try to get his attention every chance I had.

He never noticed me then, at least not in the way I wanted.

But if there’s one thing my time in the NHL has taught me, it’s how to fight for what I want.

SAM

It’s been a few years since I saw the Disney Princess volunteer, but when he brings in a stray cat, I almost can’t believe it’s the same guy.

Damn, has he changed.

Gone is the gangly, pimple-faced teen, and in his place is a man who’s grown up and bulked out. He used to follow me around, asking endless questions about animal care.

Now he’s back, but instead of asking about animals, he’s asking about me. About my life.

Flirting with me. And he’s good at it, too.

There’s something about Lachie that’s undeniably irresistible. I’m willing to give in to his charms, even knowing all he can offer is a summer fling.

Turns out, my Disney Princess grew up to be a real Prince Charming.

Review: It's the end of an era. I've been reading about these boys since the CU Hockey series debuted back in 2020 and through all ten Puckboys books. And I've loved each and every one of them. Charming Puckboy did a fantastic job of giving us one last sweet and animal-filled love story between Lachie and Sam and giving us a final goodbye to all the members of the Collective. A huge shout out to Eden Finley and Saxon James for feeding us well over the last six years, and I can't wait to see what comes next.

An ARC was provided by the authors for review.

Rating: 5/5 stars

Book Review: Hart's Redemption by S Bolanos

noreply@blogger.com (Kristen) — Fri, 27 Mar 2026 13:00:00 +0000

Title: Hart's Redemption

Author: S Bolanos

Series: Lycan Detective Duet, #2

Release Date: March 27, 2026

Synopsis: The Klamath Pack is safe.

Beatrice Harker is gone.

The bond is secure.

Lycan Detective Joshua Hart and Elijah Bennett finally have the space to explore the love that has blossomed between them. Or they would if Josh hadn’t turned. Something that should have been impossible. Now he’s stuck and a danger to everyone, including himself.

At his wit’s end, Elijah takes desperate measures to bring Josh’s mind back. But for every solution he finds, three more problems emerge. Then Josh’s medical leave runs out.

In the blink of an eye, Josh is spirited away to an undisclosed location that strains a bond that should be unbreakable, leaving Elijah frantic to find him.

Communication has never been their strong suit and it may have cost them everything. Clearly they’re still keeping secrets, but

Not all truths set you free.

Review: Josh and Elijah's story concludes in Hart's Redemption, but S Bolanos makes sure to put us through a lot of tension before we get that happily ever after. The two main characters have to deal with being separated, a trial, therapy, more pack politics, and learning how to actually communicate. I appreciated the growth these boys went through. I appreciated how the Mein Zeke was navigated. And I'm intrigued to see if we'll be following certain characters in the future.

An ARC was provided by the author for review.

Rating: 4/5 stars

Book Review: The Lost Lovelies by Vanora Lawless

noreply@blogger.com (Kristen) — Mon, 23 Mar 2026 12:00:00 +0000

Title: The Lost Lovelies

Author: Vanora Lawless

Release Date: March 23, 2026

Synopsis: Famed war correspondent Kit Lovely left Nova Scotia seventeen years ago under the crushing weight of a broken heart, swearing never to return. But after he receives an ominous letter from his new sister-in-law, Kit rushes back across the Atlantic, where he discovers their ransacked house tingling from mysterious magic. With his brother and sister-in-law gone without a trace, Kit’s left reeling. His own faulty magic can’t work a tracking spell, nor are the police much use. Desperate for answers, Kit has no choice but to turn to the very man who once shattered him.

Reserved mage Gus North is an expert PI specializing in missing persons cases. He’s also guarding a dangerous secret: he hails from a long line of talented blood magic users. When the only man he’s ever loved begs for help to find his little brother, Gus can’t turn him away. Not even with all the lies, and hurt, and lingering feelings between them clawing him up.

As they chip away at the case, their core beliefs about themselves, each other, and the world they live in unravel, exposing a deadlier enemy than either of them could have imagined.

After all, in a world of magic, not all monsters in fairytales are just stories.

THE LOST LOVELIES is an intensely emotional second-chance romance full of queer found family, mystery, and magic. Set in 1945 Halifax, Nova Scotia.

Review: Perfect for fans of K.J. Charles, this historical romance features magic, second-chances, stubborn men and a mysterious disappearance. I had a grand time reading about war correspondent Kit Lovely and PI Gus North as they reentered each other's lives after nearly two decades apart. Their love for each other was palpable and I wanted to reach into the novel and knock some sense into them at several points throughout. The mystery was very intriguing and I'd love to explore more of the magical elements in (hopefully) future books. This story perfectly wraps up, but I wouldn't mind seeing what certain side characters get up to or following our main two as they get into even more trouble.

An ARC was provided by the author for review.

Rating: 4.5/5 stars

Book Review: Hart's Betrayal by S Bolanos

noreply@blogger.com (Kristen) — Fri, 13 Mar 2026 11:11:49 +0000

Title: Hart's Betrayal

Author: S Bolanos

Series: Lycan Detective Duet, #1

Release Date: March 13, 2026

Synopsis: Some secrets are worth dying for.

Lycan Detective Joshua Hart isn't just good at his job—he's the best. Despite his skills and the Fae magic that prevents him from lying, he has a terrible secret: he's the last of the Harkers, an ancient family dedicated to the eradication of werewolves. When he's summoned to Adler Springs to investigate a brutal murder, his mission couldn't be simpler—until he makes the catastrophic mistake of sleeping with his Pack Liaison. Now they're bonded. If Elijah dies, so does Josh. And Josh was sent here to destroy Elijah's entire pack.

For Elijah Bennet, being assigned as liaison to a Lycan Detective is no honor—it's a punishment from an Alpha who despises him. He expects to be nothing more than furry wallpaper while the detective picks his pack apart. What he doesn't expect is the prickly, gorgeous man underneath the reputation. Or the ancient bond that now ties their fates together. Elijah has spent his whole life avoiding leadership and entanglement. Now he's shackled to the one man who could annihilate everything he loves—and he's falling for him anyway.

Review: There are two things I'm a complete sucker for: law enforcement books and fated mate stories. So Hart's Betrayal was checking off all the things on my wishlist. Josh Hart is our lycan detective with a dark past. Elijah Bennet is the shifter assigned as his pack liaison. And together, the sparks were flying and a bond was forming. I loved watching the two of them navigate their feelings for one another while juggling both a murder mystery and pack/family politics. At the conclusion of this book, there are still multiple threads left unresolved, but it'll leave you eager to pick up the sequel.

An ARC was provided by the author for review.

Rating: 4/5 stars

2025 Wrapped

noreply@blogger.com (Kristen) — Thu, 01 Jan 2026 04:55:00 +0000

Book Review: Paradox by J.J. Asher

noreply@blogger.com (Kristen) — Sat, 01 Nov 2025 16:13:00 +0000

Title: Paradox

Author: J.J. Asher

Release Date: September 16, 2025

Synopsis: I know now, for certain, that I've made a deal with The Devil. I'm just not sure yet if I've sold him my soul as well.

Jintae—nineteen, desperate, and done letting his parents script his life. His brilliant escape plan? Drop out of college and vanish into the wilderness, hiding in the off-grid cabin of his brother’s best friend until the storm blows over.

The problem? That best friend is running too.

Eden—thirty-four, newly single, and in no mood for company. Especially not the perfectionist teenager with too many brains, and too little sense, that's always gotten under his skin.

He craves solitude.

Abandonment has hollowed him. Heartbreak has left him bitter and violent. So when Jintae shows up uninvited, he throws him out—until the kid begs. He offers himself up as a live-in servant, and Eden agrees… On brutal terms.

But what started as punishment soon turns into something Eden can't name. Jintae challenges him, haunts him, tempts him. Under the fury is heat. And under the insults is a pull neither of them can outrun.

Snow traps them. Secrets rot between them. And the boy Eden swore to stay away from becomes the one thing he can't stop craving.

Paradox is a slow burn, male/male romance full of angst, hatred, and a whole lot of tension. It stars a stubborn and sassy virgin MC, and a tattooed A-hole hell bent on making his life miserable. This is opposites attract and hate to lovers at it's finest. There are also strong bully elements (with a dash of primal play and voyeurism), so there is a journey to the spice. But I can assure you, it's well worth the wait.

Review: Sadly, this book was not for me. I didn't jibe with the writing style, so it took me days to get through. I read plenty of dark romance, but even I wasn't cool with Eden's treatment of Jin at the beginning. It was a few hundred words too long, and yet the characters still managed to be undercooked. I was very excited by the premise, and once it got going (and I got used to the strange writing), it did manage to be entertaining. But that's about the only positive I can give.

An ARC was provided by the author for review.

Rating: 2/5 stars

Book Review: Stubborn Puckboy by Eden Finley & Saxon James

noreply@blogger.com (Kristen) — Thu, 31 Jul 2025 11:12:00 +0000

Title: Stubborn Puckboy

Authors: Eden Finley & Saxon James

Series: Puckboys #9

Release Date: July 31, 2025

Synopsis: Colby

Once upon a time, playing for the NHL was my dream. Then Radimir Novicov skated circles around me and made it clear I’d never be good enough. He was smart, talented, and worst of all–sexy. Every closeted guy knows that you don’t hit on your teammate, even if his gaze lingers longer than it should.

All it took was one drunken close call before our friendship was in tatters, he was called up to the NHL, and I was sent for further conditioning.

Playing in the NHL was off the table, so coaching became my new dream.

And seventeen years later, I’m finally heading to the big time.
Video coach. Pro level. The only downside?

It’s for Novi’s team.

Novi

Radimir Novicov is not scared of anything. I am one of the best. Future Hall of Famer. There are two years left on my contract and I will end my career on the highest high anyone did see.

Then I will slink into the shadows where no one will hear of me again.

Because while I’m playing professionally, I cannot come out and be myself. Not with my family still in Russia.

The plan has been set since I first moved to America, and I only have two years left to wait. It should be easy to focus on hockey.

Then Colby Kessinger walks back into my life. The teammate with the lopsided smiles and cocky attitude–the one who made my heart want things it can’t have.

Now two years feels like a lifetime.

Review: My love for the Puckboys series is still going strong! Stubborn Puckboy was an easy five stars because, as Radimir Novicov himself would say, he was a perfect character. I adored his humor, his Russian scariness, and his sweet relationship with Colby. This was a bit of a second chance romance, with the two first meeting and being friends when they were younger but not acting on their mutual pining. Colby comes back into Novi's life as both his coach and perfect counterbalance, so the sneaking around commenced. We, of course, get our eventual HEA and Queer Collective shenanigans, and I couldn't be more pleased.

An ARC was provided by the authors for review.

Rating: 5/5 stars

Book Review: Possession by Rina Saint

noreply@blogger.com (Kristen) — Fri, 28 Mar 2025 13:00:00 +0000

Title: Possession

Author: Rina Saint

Series: Constantine Brothers, #1

Release Date: March 28, 2025

Synopsis: I’m a beast pacing around my cage waiting for the next fight. It’s all I have, those brief moments of rage and destruction. It’s a sort of freedom. Then I go back into the cold, dark emptiness.

That’s why I don’t speak anymore. What’s the point? I stopped being human a long time ago. I’ve given up on anything but that cycle of violence and isolation—until they throw him into my cage. They expect me to kill him as soon as he gets me through my injuries. That’s what I usually do. People thrown in with me make so much noise with their begging that I have to kill them to shut them up. But Lucas is different. He’s quiet. Lost. He intrigues me.

So I don’t kill him. I claim him instead.

At first, my handlers are happy. They think he makes it easier to manage me. Control the beast by controlling its possession. Beasts are simple like that.

What they don’t realize is that he’s waking up the man I used to be—and that man is a hell of a lot more dangerous than the beast.

* Possession contains dark and potentially triggering content. A content list can be found in the ebook sample.

Review: This author is quickly becoming a new favorite. I was immediately engrossed by their newest story, and all my boxes were ticked.

✔️ Forced proximity

✔️ Only one bed

✔️ Possessive hero

✔️ All-encompassing love

✔️ Touch him and die

I truly couldn't ask for anything more. The characters were compelling, their love was sweet, and the plot was interesting. I'm unbelievably excited to continue on in this series.

An ARC was provided by the author for review.

Rating: 5/5 stars

Book Review: Possessive Puckboy by Eden Finley & Saxon James

noreply@blogger.com (Kristen) — Thu, 27 Mar 2025 13:00:00 +0000

Title: Possession Puckboy

Authors: Eden Finley & Saxon James

Series: Puckboys #8

Release Date: March 27, 2025

Synopsis: Connor

Finding out those closest to me don’t see me as the great guy I think I am not only kicks me in the gut, it makes me question everything.

Until that happened, I didn’t think I had many regrets in my life. Now, I have nothing but regrets. And when my NHL team is bought out, and the new owner makes his presence known, my existential crisis kicks up a notch. Because he might be my biggest regret of all.

Parker Duchene.

I made his life a living hell in high school, and now he’s inserting himself into my career to repay the favor.

With everything in my personal life already on the line, I can’t risk hockey too. I need to figure out a way to play nice with the new owner.

Parker

I bought Colorado’s NHL team to honor my late father. I did. Only reason.

Emotionally playing with one of my many high school tormentors is a nice bonus though.

Connor Kikishkin may be the one who made me the target for years of name-calling, but I’ve always wondered if my hatred for him bordered too much on the obsessive side to truly be classified as hate.

Infatuation is probably the right word for it.

Now his whole life is in my hands, and I can’t wait to see him beg for my mercy. Seeing Mr. Popular find his humility will definitely ease the grief from losing my dad … right? Because right now, that’s all I have, and I need to hold on to it so I don’t crumble.

Review: This book continues the set-up of the previous story with defenseman Connor Kikishkin and new team owner Parker Duchene's love story. We get a little of that nerd-jock dynamic that first kicked off this universe of stories way back with the CU Hockey series, a dash of enemies to lovers, a bi awakening, and a pet sidekick that happens to be a rat. The characters were very sweet together, there was minimal angst, and I really appreciated the authors shining a light on the effects of bullying. Overall, this was another win for the series, and I'm eagerly awaiting the surly Russian's story next.

An ARC was provided by the authors for review.

Rating: 4/5 stars

Book Review: The Traitor's Curse by Eliot Grayson

noreply@blogger.com (Kristen) — Fri, 28 Feb 2025 03:39:00 +0000

Title: The Traitor's Curse

Author: Eliot Grayson

Series: Twilight Mages #3

Release Date: February 27, 2025

Synopsis: Betrayed, beset on all sides, and possibly bewitched…

Since the sudden, suspicious, and unlamented death of his father, only one man stands between Lucian and the grudging acceptance of his subjects: Benedict, a powerful dusk mage, a military hero, the favorite of the ducal council…and Lucian’s stepbrother.

Not that Benedict wants a shackle disguised as a crown. He’d rather start a new, anonymous life a thousand miles away and leave that beautiful, icy, sneering little cretin Lucian to whatever grim fate awaits him.

But when Lucian comes to him in the middle of the night, terrified and desperate but still as infuriatingly arrogant as ever, Benedict agrees to keep Lucian alive and on the throne. On one condition: Lucian must give in to Benedict’s long-hidden desires and allow Benedict to use him, in every possible way, to sate his cursed magic’s demands.

Lucian detests Benedict. He despises what he becomes when Benedict touches him. And it might be the death of him, if his father’s murderer doesn’t kill him first…

Review: I stumbled upon the Twilight Mages series earlier this month and completely fell in love with the world and the characters and the magic. When this sequel popped up, I couldn't have been happier. I adored this book just as much as the previous two, with this installment focusing on a Dusk mage for the first time. The story follows Crown Duke Lucian and Benedict, his Lord General, one of which has a huge case of oblivious to love. We get to follow an interesting murder plot, fun banter, and enough steamy times to easily warrant another five star book in this series.

An ARC was provided by the author for review.

Rating: 5/5 stars

2024 Quarterly Wrap-Up (4/4)

noreply@blogger.com (Kristen) — Tue, 31 Dec 2024 15:00:00 +0000

Book Review: Impulsive Connections by Marie Reynard

noreply@blogger.com (Kristen) — Sat, 14 Dec 2024 19:16:00 +0000

Title: Impulsive Connections

Author: Marie Reynard

Series: Elemental Bonds #2

Release Date: December 14, 2024

Synopsis: Ignited by accident, fueled by fate. Some bonds burn brighter than any flame.

Kade Mills has spent over a decade dreaming of his ideal meet-cute. Surely the universe wouldn't toss the perfect mage at him while he's a scarred shadow of his former flirtatious self, recovering from his last encounter with the malicious spirits haunting his pack's territory.

Liam Batiste is a man of simple pleasures; a quiet room and a stack of books are all he needs to be happy. He's only in Lost Creek to help his friend save the Mills pack from the unknown evil infesting their land, but everything changes when he and Kade are paired up to capture the supernatural threat.

After a run-in with a spirit leaves them entangled—physically and magically—they must learn to control the newfound power their unwanted connection grants them. As they struggle to resist the heady pull of their bond, they begin to realize it may hold the key to defeating the dark forces that are endangering far more than just Kade's pack… and perhaps it's not as unwelcome as they first thought.

Impulsive Connections is a steamy 149k M/M paranormal romance featuring a playboy wolf shifter, a nerdy mage, and friends who are trying their very best not to meddle. This simmering slow burn is perfect for readers who love reluctant mates, unintended bonds, forced proximity, unfortunate bed shortages, and knotting. While it guarantees a happy ending for its main couple, the overarching plot does contain cliffhangers, and the series should be read in order. Please look inside for content warnings. (This series does not contain mpreg.)

Review: Marie Reynard has very quickly become a favorite author of mine, and this book continues to prove why. It perfectly balanced giving us insights into our previous main characters, Elijah and Victor, focusing on our current boys, continuing the overarching plot, AND planting seeds for the next stories. I adored Elijah and Kade's relationship — they were truly the perfect counterpart to each other with their book nerdinesss, endless dick jokes, and magic galore. I absolutely cannot wait to continue on in this series!

An ARC was provided by the author for review.

Rating: 5/5 stars

Book Review: Dire Straights by L.A. Lambert

noreply@blogger.com (Kristen) — Fri, 22 Nov 2024 13:00:00 +0000

Title: Dire Straights

Author: L.A. Lambert

Series: Boys of BBU #1

Release Date: November 22, 2024

Synopsis: Maddox - As a freshman at BBU, I have my pick of parties and girls, but I still feel pretty stressed and unfulfilled. I can't stand my moronic teammates on the swim team, and devoting so much of my time to swimming is starting to take a toll on me. I'm over everything, until I get paired with this socially awkward dweeb named Ren Suzuki in one of my classes. He follows me around like a puppy and wants to show me off to his weird friends. I feel protective over him, like I'd fight anyone who looks at him wrong, but I don't like guys that way. But then why do I feel jealous when he talks to other people? And why do I want to spend all my time with him?

Ren - It's hard for me to believe that someone like Maddox Holmes likes hanging out with me. He's cool and athletic and looks like one of those male models on a magazine cover. Jocks have never been nice to me, but I know right away that he's different. I've never liked a guy before, but I can't help but develop a crush on someone like him. And even though my evil ex-girlfriend drilled it into my head that I'm too weird and annoying for anyone to like, I'm pretty sure he's starting to feel the same way. Does he like me enough to make this a real thing, even if coming out as bi will make everything harder for him?

Dire Straights is a guaranteed HEA dual 1st POV college romance featuring double bi-awakening, jock/nerd, grumpy/sunshine, lots of fluff and spice, and an oddball group of friends. Content warnings include brief use of homophobic language, emotionally manipulative behavior from an ex, parental divorce, and brief depiction of underage drinking.

Review: This book was a combination of some of my absolute favorite tropes, and I completely adored it! We follow sweet and nerdy Ren, who is a cinnamon roll of a human being, and a grumpy jock named Maddox who only melts for his nerd. Their relationship was an absolute joy to follow, and I personally really appreciate when the conflict of the novel is external to the relationship. We get to be along for the ride as these two boys learn to open up, rely on each other, and ultimately fall in love. I'm keeping this series on my radar to not only check in on these two again, but to hopefully see what comes of the potential pairings that were hinted at.

An ARC was provided by the author.

Rating: 5/5 stars

2024 Quarterly Wrap-Up (3/4)

noreply@blogger.com (Kristen) — Thu, 03 Oct 2024 02:58:00 +0000

Book Review: The Nøkk and the Jock by Leslie McAdam

noreply@blogger.com (Kristen) — Tue, 01 Oct 2024 13:00:00 +0000

Title: The Nøkk and the Jock

Author: Leslie McAdam

Series: Creepin U #1

Release Date: October 1, 2024

Synopsis: You’re formally admitted to Creelin University—known locally as “Creepin U.” The only things wilder than the monster shifters prowling around campus are the spicy male-male love stories unfolding between classes. The Nøkk and the Jock is book one, starring an emo shapeshifter and a sunshine human. Each book is a stand-alone M/M spooky romance, but we hope you enroll in them all.

Brandon:

I’m pumped to be one of the first humans to attend a monster university, but a minor, negligible, insignificant issue arises almost immediately: My new roommate wants to drag me to his underground realm and take my soul.

He’s a nøkk who could almost pass for human, except his webbed fingers and entirely black eyes give him away. In my attempt to befriend him, I give him three drops of my blood, a black animal, and a bottle of vodka (I hear it’s a nøkk thing). Which apparently triggers some ancient bonding ritual. My bad.

I must admit I’m into him. Maybe those online tests that say I’m only mostly straight are right. But there are a few hiccups: I can’t know his real name. He won’t show me his true form. And he’s both an omen and a cause of drowning … which is troubling, since he’s on the water polo team with me.

Still, something about him calls to me, even if it shouldn’t.

The Nøkk:

This human is mine.

Stay away from him.

The Nøkk and the Jock is a monster-human bi-awakening M/M romance starring Brandon Fernandez, a golden retriever of a human being, and the prickly, melancholy nøkk. It features puzzling emoji text conversations, a monster who can stop waterfalls in midair, and drunken scareoke (monster karaoke). HEA guaranteed.

Review: This book was so much fun! The premise is that twenty years ago, the Halloween Wave turned a percentage of the population into monsters. Creepin U is the first monster university in the country to accept human students. Enter our first main character, Brandon, a sunshiny, confident, emoji-texting human who plays water polo. The Nøkk (names are dangerous) is a shy, music-loving, Norwegian water spirit who can shapeshift. And the two of them are completely adorable together. The worldbuilding is whimsical and hilarious (the characters look things up on Witchipedia, play music on Spookify, and chow down on French frights). The story was completely captivating and just flew by, leaving me excited to return to this world in the future.

An ARC was provided by the author.

Rating: 3.5/5 stars

Book Review: Forbidden Puckboy by Eden Finley & Saxon James

noreply@blogger.com (Kristen) — Thu, 19 Sep 2024 13:00:00 +0000

Title: Forbidden Puckboy

Author: Eden Finley & Saxon James

Series: Puckboys #7

Release Date: September 19, 2024

Synopsis: Easton

You know what’s the worst feeling in the world? Being in love with someone since you were twelve years old, knowing they only see you as a little brother type.

Not even becoming an NHL star has made him realize I’m all grown up now.

All of that changes when I ask my brother’s best friend to ref a charity match and we spend an entire week in each other’s pocket.

Being close to him is torture, but for the first time since my adolescent crush started, I begin to feel hope. I swear Knox looks at me the same way I look at him. Or so I think. When I throw myself at him and get utterly rejected, I never want to see him again.

Yet, shaking him is impossible, because he and Connor are always around, and my older brother is suffocatingly protective. Every time I look at Knox, I’m reminded of how he turned me down.

Can’t I just die of embarrassment in peace?

Knox

The Kiki brothers are legendary in the NHL world. Thick as thieves, unstoppable on the ice, and the kind of family nothing can come between. Or so I thought.

For the last ten years, I’ve successfully hidden my feelings for the middle Kiki brother. Easton is snarky, determined, and the prettiest guy I’ve met. Ever since we stumbled across each other on a gay dating app and shared our secrets, I’ve felt a connection to him that I haven’t had with anything else.

But Connor is my best friend and when it comes to his little brothers, “protective” doesn’t cover it. I’m determined to take my feelings for Easton to the grave, but after a week in close proximity to him, my willpower is ready to break.

All it takes is one charity hockey match, a drunken night out, and a forbidden kiss for me to know that Easton Kikishkin is it for me.

And unless I want to lose Connor, Easton will never be mine.

Review: I continue to adore this series, and this time around, we've got a slow burn with the ever favorite brother's best friend trope. Knox is a hockey referee, and Easton is the pro player on the same team as his overprotective older brother. They've both been secretly pining for each other for years, and seeing their relationship finally develop was adorable. This was also a very real look at the logistics of dating someone who travels for a living, and the steps you take to make it work. I really enjoyed this one and I can't lie, the set-up that happened for the next book has me unbelievably excited.

An ARC was provided by the authors for review.

Rating: 4/5 stars

Book Review: Secondhand Skin by Hailey Turner

noreply@blogger.com (Kristen) — Wed, 04 Sep 2024 13:00:00 +0000

Title: Secondhand Skin

Author: Hailey Turner

Series: Soulbound Universe, #2

Release Date: September 4, 2024

Synopsis: Nothing says you can’t steal a heart. Keeping it though? That’s another problem.

Wade Espinoza knows a thing or two about hoards. As a dragon, he’s got plenty. What he doesn’t have is a relationship, and he swears he’s not looking for one. But when he’s sent to Boston to answer a cry for help from another pack, he’s drawn into a mess of fae bargains centered around a selkie who Wade instantly becomes obsessed with.

Riordan Maguire is struggling to keep his selkie clan out of the clutches of a fae lord who will do anything to take over their territory. Partnering with the Boston god pack means coming face-to-face with the first person he’s ever wanted to willingly give his sealskin. Too bad Wade isn’t local and is something altogether strange that Riordan isn’t sure he can trust.

Amidst a growing danger in the streets and Boston Harbor, Wade and Riordan are desperate to find a way to keep everyone safe. For bargains are dangerous things to break, but so are hearts. Wade isn’t willing to shatter either of theirs in a race against time that could see Riordan torn from him forever.

Review: I've adored Wade ever since we met the hungry fledgling in the Soulbound series, and I loved seeing him get his happily ever after. Riordan is such a gentle soul, and their relationship was syrup sweet. As always, Hailey nailed the plot, and I devoured this book quicker than Wade can eat through a box of pop-tarts. We got to see how much Wade has truly grown and come into his own in this story. He's confident, hilarious, and an absolute force to be reckoned with. Riordan is a strong leader who is selfless, loyal, and caring. So it's no wonder they go together like sea and sky.

An ARC was provided by the author for review.

Rating: 5/5 stars

2024 Quarterly Wrap-Up (2/4)

noreply@blogger.com (Kristen) — Mon, 01 Jul 2024 14:00:00 +0000

Book Review: A Very Monstrous Desire by April Andrews

noreply@blogger.com (Kristen) — Mon, 20 May 2024 23:58:00 +0000

Title: A Very Monstrous Desire

Author: April Andrews

Series: Monstrously Inclined #1

Release Date: May 17, 2024

Synopsis: Rips have opened between our dimension and the monster dimension, allowing thousands of monsters to come through into our world. Some of those monsters have come to fight, some have come in peace, and some have other plans entirely…

When Theo Anderson is conscripted into the new Monster Defence Force his only thought is how quickly he can get discharged. Theo doesn’t care that there are monsters terrorising the coast of Somerset, all he wants is to be left alone, living in his very tidy home, doing his very ordered job, and living his very organised life.

But when Theo is separated from his unit and captured by a monster that looks like he’s walked straight out of one of Theo’s fantasies, he will soon discover that not everything can be controlled, and sometimes it is easier to let someone, or something take the lead.

Monster-on-human smut incoming.

Review: I am a huge sucker for a monster romance, and this book had all the right ingredients to hit the spot. There was an interesting premise surrounding rips between dimensions, cool worldbuilding, a stoic monster hero, and his nerdy little human. I enjoyed many of the elements in this story and am intrigued to see what else the author has planned for this series.

An ARC was provided by the author for review.

Rating: 3/5 stars