Early Book Review: Trade Deadline (Hat Trick) by Avon Gale; Piper Vaughn

Trade Deadline is the third book in the Hat Trick series by Avon Gale and Piper Vaughn. It is currently scheduled for release on August 17 2020. While it is part of a series, and returning readers will enjoy their previous knowledge and seeing past characters, new readers will be able to fully enjoy the read. 

Daniel “Bellzie” Bellamy should be on top of the world—a Stanley Cup is the perfect topper to his fourteen-year NHL career. But despite the post-win high, something’s missing. When the chance to play for his hometown team, the Miami Thunder, comes along, he’s open to it. And when he runs into an old friend from his past soon after he makes the move, he wonders if it might be kismet. Micah Kelly never thought he’d see his childhood crush—and first kiss—again. Danny Bellamy moved on to bigger and better things when they were teenagers, and the idea that Micah’s relationship with the professional hockey player could be anything more than one-sided Instagram thirst seems too good to be true. Maybe too good to be true is the new reality, though. As the season goes on, Micah teaches Daniel to surf, and Daniel introduces Micah to his lovable pack of rescue dogs and the world of being a hockey boyfriend. Life is good. But when things on the ice don’t go as planned, they’ll have to decide if their rediscovered romance is built to last.

Trade Deadline is a story I have been hoping for, since I have been eager to see the Venom crew find their happy endings. This book did not disappoint, but did introduce me to more characters that I want to see grow and find happiness. Daniel and Micah are both well adjusted and open minded guys that just so happened to be each other's first kiss, and first guy crush. I loved seeing them find each other again- and that friendship was just as important to them as the more physical aspects of their relationship once that began. The open communication, and way consent and talking about what is bothering them- even when it is something completely outside their control and unsolvable in the moment- models healthy relationships in a way that makes me want to shout "read this!" to people that need instruction on the matter. This is firmly a friends to more, with plenty of heart and complications that keep things moving and tension high. I think fans of this author team will be very happy, and get just what they were hoping for from this read.

Trade Deadline is another solid romance with emotional stakes and great communication.

Early Book Review: The Roommate Problem (Mile High Happiness) by Mariah Ankenman

The Roommate Problem is the third book in the Mile High Happiness series by Mariah Ankenman. While having read the previous books will give you a more rounded understanding of some of the characters, this book can stand up just fine on its own. It is currently scheduled for release on August 10 2020. 

To Moira “Mo” Rossi, the world is full of sunshine, goodness, and happily ever afters—so of course she figures finding the perfect roomie will be easy. But after four creepos who ask if benefits come with the room and one woman who claims she’s a vampire, Mo is officially desperate. So what if the guy she agrees to on paper ends up being the Derrick Downer to her Sally Sunshine in person? She’s the queen of making lemonade. August Porter expected his new roommate Mo to be like him—neat, practical, and oh yeah: male. Not the outrageous hippie with more stars in her eyes than there are in the sky. She’s infuriating, exasperating, his exact opposite in every possible way...and the bright ray of sunshine he didn’t even realize his gray world was missing. Suddenly, falling into bed with his roommate isn’t the worst idea he’s ever heard. Just falling in love with her is. But one of them is keeping a secret that could turn their opposite attraction into utter disaster. 

The Roommate Problem is a sweet and fun read. Mo and August are the quintessential odd couple. Mo is all optimism and joy, while August is very reserved and introverted. I loved seeing them get to know each other better and discover how they balanced and complimented each other. Their growth from rather adversarial roommates to a couple was fun and satisfying to read.  Both Mo and August grew, and their interactions varied from serious to seriously funny.  I will admit that I saw they major conflict coming- from far, far away- and mentally urged different choices several times. However, I think the way it was handle and the character development involved kept it interesting and engaging. 

The Roommate Problem is a solid romance that fans of the author and series will definitely want to read. 

Book Review: Boyfriend Material by Alexis Hall

Boyfriend Material by Alexis Hall is a contemporary romance. Luc O'Donnell is tangentially—and reluctantly—famous. His rock star parents split when he was young, and the father he's never met spent the next twenty years cruising in and out of rehab. Now that his dad's making a comeback, Luc's back in the public eye, and one compromising photo is enough to ruin everything. To clean up his image, Luc has to find a nice, normal relationship and Oliver Blackwood is as nice and normal as they come. He's a barrister, an ethical vegetarian, and he's never inspired a moment of scandal in his life. In other words: perfect boyfriend material. Unfortunately apart from being gay, single, and really, really in need of a date for a big event, Luc and Oliver have nothing in common. So they strike a deal to be publicity-friendly (fake) boyfriends until the dust has settled. Then they can go their separate ways and pretend it never happened. But the thing about fake-dating is that it can feel a lot like real-dating. And that's when you get used to someone. Start falling for them. Don't ever want to let them go.

Boyfriend Material is a book with everything I love. It is a slow burn, acquaintances to lovers, fake dating, there's only one bed trope filled romance with a slew of fantastic secondary characters that I desperately want to have more of. Luc is a hot mess, and knows it. He is struggling with being a functioning adult while trying to keep everyone at a distance. Oliver is so busy trying to be perfect that he neglects to see what makes him actually happy rather than just doing what everyone expects from him. They seem to be opposites, but they each have family and emotional issues that they need to work on, and they seem to do that best together. I loved the circles of friends for both the guys, and I want more of them all, so much more. The banter was hysterical but also so painfully that it was real. There were feels that made me want to throw things, some that made me want to cry, and others that just had me grinning like a maniac. I think the only issue people could have is if they are completely stymied by the occasional slag and cultural references that they might not get, but that is the only thing I could imagine anyone complaining about- and that would be if they were really reaching for something to complain about. There was so much goodness in this book that I think this has become my go to reread for when I hit a reading slump and need to remember why I love to read. 

Boyfriend Material is a book that hit all the sweet spots and had me grinning through most of the read. There are no enough words to describe the love I have for this book. Now I need to go read everything else from this author!

Book Review: Pirate's Persuasion (Sentinels of Savannah) by Lisa Kessler

Pirate's Persuasion by Lisa Kessler is the fourth book in the Sentinels of Savannah series. I have not read the previous books, but each is able to be read on its own, although the previous knowledge returning readers have of the character and world-building would definitely make for a more satisfying read. 

Immortal pirate Drake Cole has a reputation in Savannah for his custom woodworking and historical restorations, but his work has grown into an obsession. He's become a stranger to his crew since the Sea Dog sank in 1795. None of them know his painful secret. A young stowaway went down with the ship, one that Drake swore a blood oath to protect. The ghost of a young boy, lost at sea over two hundred years ago, leads local medium, Heather Storrey right to Drake’s door. He saved her life before, and now she has a chance to return the favor, but how can she protect him from a curse that no one can see? A dark coven possesses the figurehead from the Flying Dutchman, and if Heather and the immortal Sea Dog crew don't locate the relic soon, Drake may be lost to them forever. Heather has seen the passionate man behind the veil of guilt, and she's determined to free him from his self-imposed prison, and persuade this pirate to love again.

Pirate's Persuasion is a solid story. Despite not having read the previous books I was able to get a full understanding of Drake and Heather, and how they each struggled with their relationship. I liked seeing their story, and I thought the variety of emotional scars they both come into the story with made their happiness so much more engaging. I was able to catch up on the larger story line about the rest of the pirate crew and the paranormal setup in Savannah, but I think returning readers will really enjoy seeing that story line come to a head and play out. I thought the danger level was good, the dose of deception and darkness was good, and the heat level was on point. I really liked that I got to see the story through the eyes of several characters, it gave me a much better understanding of the bigger picture. However, I think because I missed out on the previous books that I was not quite as invested in the story as returning readers might be. I was intrigued by the characters, and would like to read more about many of the secondary characters- and just might go bad to start this series from the beginning. 

Pirate's Persuasion was a well written romance, with a solid dose of suspense and danger. I think fans of the series will enjoy it much more than newcomers without investment in the larger story line and cast of characters.

Early Book Review: Take a Hint, Dani Brown by Talia Hibbert

Take a Hint, Dani Brown by Talia Hibbert is currently scheduled for release on June 23 2020. Danika Brown knows what she wants: professional success, academic renown, and an occasional roll in the hay to relieve all that career-driven tension. But romance? Been there, done that, burned the T-shirt. So Dani asks the universe for the perfect friend-with-benefits—someone who knows the score and knows their way around the bedroom. When big, brooding security guard Zafir Ansari rescues Dani from a workplace fire drill gone wrong, it’s an obvious sign: PhD student Dani and former rugby player Zaf are destined to sleep together. But before she can explain that fact to him, a video of the heroic rescue goes viral. Suddenly, half the internet is shipping #DrRugbae—and Zaf is begging Dani to play along. Turns out his sports charity for kids could really use the publicity. Lying to help children? Who on earth would refuse? Dani’s plan is simple: fake a relationship in public, seduce Zaf behind the scenes. The trouble is, grumpy Zaf is secretly a hopeless romantic—and he’s determined to corrupt Dani’s stone-cold realism. Before long, he’s tackling her fears into the dirt. But the former sports star has issues of his own, and the walls around his heart are as thick as his, um, thighs. 

Take a Hint, Dani Brown is a great contemporary romance with wonderfully flawed characters. I love the way even the secondary characters are fleshed out and given significant issues and lives of their own- making them feel real. Dani is a combination of strength, intelligence, and fearful insecurity that she keeps locked down hard. Zaf is my favorite kind of romance character- a sweetheart often more concerned with others than himself but still anxious and thought of as much tougher and hard than he really is. I loved watching the two discover more about each other and take this path together. They discover even more about themselves than each other, and the ride was full of feels. I really adored both characters and how real all of them felt, since none were perfect or unbearably flawed. I was left thinking about this group long after I finished the book, and was left very happy with the conclusion but still wanting more. I will be checking out the backlist and any future books from this author and fully expect to enjoy them just as much.

Take a Hint, Dani Brown is a friends to lovers romance with all the feels, and plenty of character development. I look forward to any future books with these characters.

Early Book Review: Game Changer (Wynn Hockey) by Kelly Jamieson

Game Changer is the fifth book in the Wynn Hockey series by Kelly Jamieson, and is currently scheduled for release on June 9 2020. You do not have to have read the other books to enjoy this read (I have not read them) but I think returning readers will certainly enjoy it more with the amount of characters that make their appearance in this book.

Jackson Wynn did not want anything to do with my crazy family's drama, which I've been watching unfold from a distance over the last year, but now my grandfather has Alzheimer's and I feel I need to at least make a quick visit to see him. My hockey season's over, all I have to do is get through my teammate Steve's wedding, and then I'm on a plane to Los Angeles to do my family duty. After that, I'll head home to Manitoba for some summer R&R at the family lake cottage. Molly Flynn defies expectations at her wedding, which becomes pandemonium. I need to get out of there. Fast. Who do I turn to? Jackson Wynn, one my fiancee's teammates. He's been a friend to me since I met Steve. For one night, we hide out in his condo, but he's leaving in the morning for California. I want to go with him. On this  trip, neither of us expect Molly to bond with my bonkers family and neither of us expect to bond with each other.

Game Changer is a friends to lovers story with a few twists. I really like Molly- she is sweet and strong with a good head on her shoulders. She just needs to escape for a bit to deal with the drama of telling off her groom at the altar for cheating. Jax is a good guy, with a difficulty in dealing with emotions and relationship problems. I liked the pair as friends, and watching them each slowly see that they wanted something else. The story starts as a slow burn, as each barely seems to know what they want, but they are just so nice together. I really like that even the best characters have some issues, and even those you might think of as the bad do have redeeming qualities and are worth a story of their own. The people were all multidimensional, and felt real, even if the situations they find themselves are well outside my reality, I feel like people in that position would really feel and act like them.

Game Changer is a fun and engaging read. Fans of this author, and this series, will definitely want to readers, and it might encourage new readers to check out the previous books.

Book Review: In His Kiss (Unrequited) by Ava Alise

In His Kiss is the first book in the Unrequited series by Ava Alise. "This was a mistake" were the words that sunk my entire world. Jordan should have been my first, he was already my everything. My best friend, my secret crush. We were closer than siblings. Our family's weaved together an intricate pattern of lines never meant to be crossed, until that night. We had a bit too much to drink and the heated way he stared at me made me feel that we could finally be something more. Things got a little out of hand and once the kissing started I didn't want it to stop. The time felt right and I gathered courage and told him how I felt. If only I knew how awkward things would be the next morning.

In His Kiss is a book that had me almost constantly holding my breath waiting for something horrible to happen- and each time the the issue was less horrible than I expected. It is emotionally charged and draining, but in the best way. Xia and Jordan have been best friends forever, and each crushing on the other almost as long. When things heat up the insecurities and family struggles they each have are the first barriers to their happiness, but not the last. I do love that they talk to each other, even if they delay it too often. There is just so much going on for all the characters, and one of the twists I considered right away- but some of the moments were really unexpected. Their friends and family are also well developed, and have so much going on in their own stories. I will admit that there were moments that I found Xia and her reactions to be immature, but this is also about college age characters and their is self-awareness about maturity levels that really balanced out those moments of annoyance.  I am invested in this circle of individuals, and am very much looking forward to the next book, which the afterward promised me. 

In His Kiss is an intense read with a happy ending. I enjoyed the read and look forward to more.

Early Book Review: Finding Mr. Right Next Door (Firefighters of Station 1) by Sarah Ballance

Finding Mr. Right Next Door is the second book in the Firefighters of Station 1 series by Sarah Ballance and currently scheduled for release on May 11 2020. You can read each book as a stand alone, but there a few spoilers if you read out of order.

For Lexi Dean, burning down her kitchen was disaster enough. Agreeing to move in next door with her totally off-limits best friend, Matt Freeman, until her house is livable again? They’ve always been close, but this is ridiculous. If she’s not bumping into him at the refrigerator, he’s at the front door giving her date the third degree. And slipping between his borrowed sheets? That’s about as distracting as listening to his shower run, because suddenly all she can think about is rivulets of water cascading down is spectacular body—the one he seems to be going out of his way to make sure she notices. Not that it matters. He can flaunt his firefighter abs around her all he wants. They already share everything—their jobs, their friends, their backyard, even their dog—and that means only one thing: Lexi is not going to risk losing any of it by dipping a single toe in the temptation that is Matt Freeman. Lexi may not know how to handle a fire extinguisher, but this is one fire that just might burn them both if they’re not careful.

Finding Mr. Right Next Door is a contemporary romance that I have mixed feelings about. I felt bad for Lexi on occasion, her friends seem to tease her constantly and self esteem and having an uncomfortable conversation seem beyond her. Matt is painted as almost too perfect, aside from his worries about losing Lexi's friendship. There are some funny moments, some heat, and lots of me shaking my head. I liked the secondary characters and thought some of the book was very well written. However, despite a few attempts at talking it out that were shot down and avoided, I was so annoyed with the fact that two people that had supposedly been best friends forever could not just sit down and talk. I get the fear of wrecking a friendship with a romantic relationship, but how can you even have a friendship if you are not willing to talk to each other?

Finding Mr. Right Next Door is a friends to more romance that will appeal to fans of the author and series.

Early Book Review: A Secret for a Secret (All In) by Helena Hunting

A Secret for a Secret is the third book in the All In series by Helena Hunting. Each book can be enjoyed as part of the series or on its own. It is currently scheduled for release on May  12 2020. 

My name is Ryan Kingston, and I’m a rule follower. I’ve never been in a fistfight. I always obey the speed limit. I don’t get drunk, and I definitely don’t pick up random women at bars. Except the night I found out that my whole existence has been a lie. I got drunk. And picked up a stranger. Her name was Queenie, and she was everything I’m not: reckless, impulsive, and chaotic. We did shots and traded secrets. And ended up naked at my place. She left me a thank-you note in the morning and her panties as a parting gift. But no way to contact her. Six weeks later I’m sitting in the first official team meeting of the season, and there she is. I neglected to mention that I’m the goalie for Seattle’s NHL team. And Queenie? Turns out she’s the general manager’s daughter.

A Secret for a Secret is a sports romance with humor, heat, and heart. Ryan looks and acts like a boy scout, but his family life and history is not as perfect as anyone looking at him would suspect. Queenie feels like she is an utter mess, and has little faith in herself. When a one night stand has to change into a working relationship the battle really starts. I liked watching them come together, and get to know themselves and each other better. I could understand both of their frustrations, self doubt, and concern for each other. I did see a couple of the twists coming, but just enough so that I wanted to warn the characters to spare them the confrontations and additional angst.  As a fan of the author I loved getting to see past characters come into play. 

A Secret for a Secret is another great book from Hunting. Fans will need to add this to their collection. 

Book Review: Daisy Does it Herself by Gracie Player

Daisy Does it Herself by Gracie Player is a contemporary romance. When 26-year-old Daisy's life in London comes crashing down around her, the only thing she can think of is getting away - far away. That's how she found herself stumbling off a train in England's picturesque Peak District - 150 miles from home, with no idea why she'd gone there and even less idea how she intended to get home.  But as Daisy explores the gorgeous village of Upper Finlay, she glimpses the possibility of a different life. The Derbyshire Dales offer up new friends, new opportunities, and a distractingly dishy object of attraction in the form of local bookstore owner Alex (and his bumbling Great Dane.) When Daisy discovers Alex’s business is in trouble she steps in to save the day. But London's Calling - literally. The life Daisy ran away from is calling her back. Why then, is she so reluctant to heed its call? 

Daisy Does it Herself is a wonderful look at a woman that has been belittled and talked down to for so long that she has come to believe herself mediocre. A really bad day, and a less than stellar relationship, land her in a used bookstore with a hunky owner, and a new look at life. The story is just as much about Daisy finding herself, making friends and exploring her interests, as it is about her choosing her future. The story is sweet, and has some unexpected plot points along the way. I really liked seeing Daisy decide what she wanted, and explore her passions, rather than just following the path everyone expected from her. I liked the way she developed friendships, not just the possibilities for romance. I would have liked to see some of the story from Alex's point of view. However, since he is fairly straightforward and honest about how he feels throughout the book it was not really needed, but there were some moments that I would have liked to see from his perspective. 

Daisy Does it Herself is a charming read that is as much of a personal journey for Daisy as it is a romance.

Early Book Review: Burn Zone (Hotshots) by Annabeth Albert

Burn Zone is the first book in the Hotshots series by Annabeth Albert. It is currently scheduled for release on April 27 2020.

Smoke jumper Lincoln Reid is speechless to see Jacob Hartman among his squad’s new recruits. Linc had promised his late best friend he’d stay away from his little brother. And yet here Jacob is…and almost instantly, the same temptation Linc has always felt around him is causing way too many problems. Jacob gets everyone’s concerns, but he’s waited years for his shot at joining the elite smoke jumping team, and is hoping to honor his brother’s memory. He’s ready to tackle any challenge Linc throws his way, and senses the chemistry between them—chemistry Linc insists on ignoring—is still alive and kicking. This time, Jacob’s determined to get what he wants. Close quarters and high stakes make it difficult for Linc to keep his resolve, never mind do so while also making sure the rookie is safe. But the closer they get, the more Linc’s plan to leave at the end of the season risks him breaking another promise: the one his heart wants to make to Jacob.

Burn Zone is a story that grabbed me from the start, and there is a lot to unpack. Guilt, family ties, and honorable intent are the biggest challenges this couple face, and it is all more than enough. Linc's friendship with Wyatt was not perfect, and had its issues, but Linc wants to keep his promises to him, especially after his death. Having a relationship with Jacob goes against everything Wyatt wanted, but something Jacob and Linc both crave. I really enjoyed getting to know both the characters, and seeing them really get to know each other and trust each other despite the distance they try to keep between them. I also liked the building of the secondary characters, and how varied and multifaceted they all were. I am already looking forward to continuing this series to see more of them.  I also enjoyed that the reactions of Linc, Jcob, and the secondary characters were not always what I would have hoped, they were always in line with the personality of the character, I might not agree but I could always understand how they come to it. I also really appreciated that once they came to the decision to be together and fight for their HEA the work was not done and things did not magically fall into place. Family still needed to be dealt with, the possibilities of mistakes and missteps between them were still there, but they were committed to putting in the time and effort that is necessary for a real relationship rather than the world suddenly aligning and being all glitter and rainbows. The realism of the characters, their personalities, and their struggles just grabbed me and I want more. I am so ready for the next book in the series, and am now going to check out the author's previous books.

Burn Zone is a romance that gave me all the feels, with a nearly perfect blend of heart and heat.

Book Review: The Family We Make by Dan Wingreen

The Family We Make by Dan Wingreen is a contemporary romance. Spencer Kent gave up on love a long time ago. As a twenty-eight-year-old single father with a fourteen-year-old son, Connor, he knows his appeal to the average gay man is limited, and when you factor in his low self-esteem and tendencies towards rudeness and sarcasm, it might as well be nonexistent. But that’s okay. A man is the last thing Spencer needs or wants.Tim Ellis’s life is falling apart around him. After four years of hard work at college, he finds himself blacklisted from the career of his dreams by the professor he refused to sleep with and abandoned by the boyfriend he thought he was going to marry. Even though he was lucky enough to land a job at a bakery, he still feels like a failure.Tim and Spencer’s first meeting is filled with turbulent misunderstanding, but Tim makes a connection with Connor through a Big Brother/Big Sister program, and both men put aside their mutual dislike for his sake. By letting go, they may help each other find their way into a life they never could have imagined.

The Family We Make is a sweet romance that spends as much time on character development as it does the romance. I enjoyed how well developed the major and secondary characters were. I also thought knowing the inner insecurities and anxieties of both Time and Spencer made their relationship and interactions even sweeter.  This book ticked all the boxes for what I enjoy in a slow burn, friends to lovers romance, and a single father romance. I loved getting to know the characters, and thought everything was very well done. However, I have to admit that for some reason I just never connected with the story. At about the halfway point I started to get bored. I kept reading, because I did want to see how it all played out and I wanted to see the HEA- but I caught myself skimming descriptions and Spencer's latest worries until the end. I am not sure if I just was not in the mood for the book or style because I could find nothing actually wrong with the book. It just left me a little uninterested by the end.

The Family We Make is an emotional romance that hits several great tropes, and has very well developed characters. 

Early Book Review: She Loves Me (Harmony Pointe) by Melissa Foster

She Loves Me is the third book in the Harmony Pointe series by Melissa Foster and currently scheduled for release on April 21 2020. You do not need to read the series in order to enjoy the read. However, there are connected characters and all of the books are pretty great, so if you enjoy one you might want to read them all anyway.

Something is off in Piper Dalton’s life, and she has a feeling it might just be her. All her siblings are blissfully settled with their forever loves. But while her sisters were dreaming of white weddings, Piper was left heartbroken and commitment phobic by her first love, her best friend’s younger brother. As a woman dominating the male-driven construction industry, Piper has no interest in turning in her hammer for an apron—even if hot and hilarious Harley thinks otherwise. Burly bar owner Harley Dutch has a bum ankle and two preteen nieces to take care of, and having his best friend, tough-as-nails and sexy-as-sin Piper Dalton, come to his rescue is just the remedy he needs. Piper is her snarky self, and she kind of sucks at caregiving, but she’s owned his heart for years, she’s got a way with the girls, and Harley would sure like to have his way with her. As things heat up between Piper and Harley, she warns him not to fall in love with her because she’ll only break his heart. Harley is the right man for that challenge—until he makes the biggest mistake of his life, and they begin to wonder if true love really can conquer all.

She Loves Me is a book I have been eager for, since I have loved the previous Harmony Point books and the related series. I have wanted Harley and Piper's story since I first met them, but readers that have never read a book from Foster will still be able to enjoy the read and get just as lost in their story. I love Piper, she is tough as nails but still so very vulnerable- just so used to hiding it. Harley is a big guy, always looking out for the people in his life, and any underdog. They have been dancing around each other for years, and events finally make it the perfect time for Harley to make his move. I love how they already know each other so well, but readers get a better look at them both. The respect and effort they each show in the process of figure each other, and themselves, out is an engaging story with some heart rending moments but plenty of sweet and heat as well. I simply loved Piper's character so much, her insecurities and less than stellar coping mechanisms spoke to me, as did how sweet and caring she was toward others even when she could not see it herself. There were moments when I thought Harley was a little too perfect, but the teasers for where Foster might focus her attentions next fixed some of that and made me ready to read on as soon as the next book is released.

She Loves Me is a solid contemporary romance with a good balance of heart and heat. Fans of the author will definitely want to read it. 

Early Book Review: Not That Kind of Guy by Andie J. Christopher

Not That Kind of Guy by Andie J. Christopher is a contemporary romance currently scheduled for release on April 14 2020. State attorney Bridget Nolan is successful in all aspects of her life—except romance. After breaking up with her longtime boyfriend, she's been slow to reenter the dating scene. To be honest, she has more important things to do like putting bad guys behind bars. But with her brother's wedding right around the corner, she suddenly needs a date and fast. Lucky for Bridget, the legal intern is almost done with his program. Matt Kido is dumbstruck by Bridget—total love at first sight—but there's one problem. She's totally off-limits while she's his boss. But the moment he no longer reports to her, Matt decides to take a chance. An impulsive decision takes them to Las Vegas where, as the saying goes, what happens in Vegas, stays in Vegas. Unless you put a ring on it.

Not That Kind of Guy had a great balance to it. I loved the humor and real, emotional issues that were dealt with. Bridget is so used to having to be in control and trying to be perfect that when she lets go things get a little out of control. Matt has gotten tired of doing what he should and the possibility of being used. Neither is overly trusting, even of themselves. I loved watching them forge a friendship and more. I was glad to get both of their points of view, seeing how both of them worried about their own value in the relationship help me understand the choices they made, even when I dd not agree with them. I thought that the family dynamic for both of them were key to the story, and explored in a way that explained a great deal about the characters without sidetracking the story. I also liked the thought that was put into the secondary characters and background story. However, I also felt like the author was trying to get all the tropes in the book. There was the workplace/forbidden romance, the age gap, the wealth gap, the real slash fake relationship, the jealous ex's, and so on. I felt a little like the author had all the possible twists and trops on a check list and tried to get as many in as possible. I liked the characters, and the story for the most part, but some of it just felt forced. 

Not That Kind of Guy is a contemporary romance with a good balances of heat and sweet.

Early Book Review: Sexy Beast (Billion $ Bastards) by Jackie Ashenden

Sexy Beast by Jackie Ashenden is currently scheduled for release on April 1 2020. Commanding billionaire Everett Calhoun reveals his sexy dark side to his girl-next-door best friend in the second installment of the Billion $ Bastards trilogy. I was born bad. Maintaining tight control—in business and in the bedroom—is the only way to keep my darkness in check. So when my girl-next-door best friend, Freya, comes to me for a sexual favor, I don’t see the harm in giving her what she needs. After all, I’ve always kept her firmly in the friend zone. But after showing her that there’s nothing wrong with her ability to orgasm, it’s all I can do to walk away. Unleashing my inner beast on the person who matters most to me is not an option. She wants me but is she prepared to follow my every command, to submit to my will and let me take her to the ultimate heights of pleasure? Getting Freya on her knees should make me feel like the monster I am, but being with her leaves me more vulnerable, more human, than ever. I need to reclaim the friendship we had before I lose control completely, or will she have me on my knees?

Sexy Beast is part of the Harlequin Dare line, which means it is heavy on the heat, if the description of the book does not give that away. This is also the second book in a trilogy, but can stand well on its own. I have not read the previous book but know from context the other two books in the series must center on Everett's business partners. There is some Dom/Sub play and a lot of bearing of souls as well as bodies. Everett and Freya are best friends, and have been since they were children. Each have some childhoods trauma and significant lingering issues because of it. I love that they work hard to help each other while also forcing each other to face the truth. Seeing them each come to terms with their feelings and the implications was painful, but in the best way. Confidence and control issues are some of the most common, and seeing them handled with such care, with the underlying levels of trust and honest caring was wonderful. While the heat level was high, it in no way overpowered the emotional character arc, the trust and friendship they shared was the key to the entire story. Sometimes the biggest obstacles to a happy  ever after lie in the minds and pride of the people involved, and that was certainly the case here. I found the fears, frustrations, and care for each other to be very realistic and engaging to read and think that fans of contemporary romance with high heat levels will agree.

Sexy Beast is a romance that is emotionally charged and full of heat.

Early Book Review: Shameless With Him (Less Than) by Carrie Ann Ryan

Shameless With Him is the third book in the Less Than series by Carrie Ann Ryan. It is currently scheduled for release on March 24 2020 and can stand on its own or enjoyed as part of the series.

Caleb Carr might have once been ready for commitment, but when the unexpected slams into him with the force of a two-ton truck, he knows he has to run away from anything that might be important. Zoey might well be his final temptation, but to keep her whole, he’ll walk away. Zoey Wager has loved Caleb since they were eight. And has had her heart broken from afar repeatedly ever since. It doesn’t help that every time she sees him—even when she’s running away halfway across the world—he’s with another woman. She’s watched him fall in lust her entire life. Now, she’s ready to watch him fall in love. With her.

Shameless With Him is a romance that pulls on the childhood crush trope. Zoey has loved Caleb for ever, and when they kind of fall together she is very cautious about going all in, because his relationships never seem to last long. Caleb is dealing with some issues that he is reluctant to share with his family, never mind the girl he counts as a friend and has wanted for years. Neither wants to blow their chance, but both are dealing with doubts, fear, and helping pull of the wedding of a lifetime for Zoey's baby sister. There is a good does of heart, some heat, and moments when readers will want to throttle one or more of the characters. The story works, and the cast of characters are well written. Maybe I just picked this book up at the wrong time. It was a good, solid romance but I never got fully invested or engaged with the characters and story. I love the author in general, so I think this might have been more of a me thing than anything about the book.

Shameless With Him is a good romance, and I think fans of the author and second chance, or childhood crush, romances will particularly enjoy it. 

Early Book Review: Dekoboko Sugar Days by TOKYOPOP, Yusen Atsuko

Dekoboko Sugar Days by Yusen Atsuko and Tokyopop is currently scheduled for release on February 18 2020.  Yuujirou Matsukaze has been close friends with Rui Hanamine since the two of them were children, and at that time, Yuujirou was the one who stood up for and took care of his adorable, soft-hearted friend. But as it turns out, Yuujirou's childhood dreams end up growing a little too big to handle - or, rather, too tall! At over six feet in height, the cheerful and happy-go-lucky Rui towers over his would-be protector, and still has no idea Yuujirou's had a crush on him since they were kids!

Dekoboko Sugar Days is an enjoyable graphic novel that show two fairly clueless high school guys finding their way from friends to more. They each have to figure out their own feelings and then gather the courage to share that information with each other. I like that it showed their continued struggles with communication- which often gets left out of the story. Insecurities and figuring things out is more than half the struggle particularly for young and new adults that are still trying to figure out what they want, never mind how to talk about it with they person you care most about. The assumptions of those around them, and the doubts they each had felt the most real in the story. I liked the artwork, although I do have to admit that there were a couple of moments that I confused a couple of characters and it took me a minute to figure it out. I liked the occasional breaks in the fourth wall, and the amount of humor that was sprinkled through the story. I had a few issues with continuity or flowing storyline, particularly the moment of their first time together. I felt like a couple pages were missing, as they went from insanely awkward to french kissing to clarifying that Rui was still good to be bottom. I missed any conversation about that, and I went back to make sure I had not accidentally flipped pages to quick or something. So I did enjoy the story, I did see many tropes and stereotypes, but for the most part I was happy with the read.

Dekoboko Sugar Days is a read that hit some good points, and a few head scratching moments. However, overall I enjoyed the read. 

Early Book Review: Kissing Game by Marie Harte

Kissing Game by Marie Harte does not come labeled as part of any series, but does tie into several of the previous contemporary romance series from Harte. If you are already a fan or these you will be thrilled to see Rena and Axel finally get their book. If you are new to Harte's writing then you will still be able to enjoy this story, but will miss out on some connections and inside stories. It is currently scheduled for release on February 4 2020.

Rena Jackson is ready. She's worked her tail off to open up her own hair salon, and she's almost ready to quit her job at the dive bar. Rena's also a diehard romantic, and she's had her eye on bar regular Axel Heller for a while. He's got that tall-dark-and-handsome thing going big time. Problem is, he's got that buttoned-up Germanic ice man thing going as well. With Valentine's Day just around the corner, Rena's about ready to give up on Axel and find her own Mr. Right. At six foot six, Axel knows he intimidates most people. He's been crushing on the gorgeous waitress for months. But the muscled mechanic is no romantic, and his heart is buried so deep, he has no idea how to show Rena what he feels. He knows he's way out of his depth and she's slipping away. So, he makes one crazy, desperate play.

Kissing Game is a fun and heart felt read made even better because fans of Harte will see that it ties in characters from three of her series. I loved seeing how well some of the couples are doing and how much has happened in their lives.  I loved Axel's character, and have wanted to read more about him for awhile, and this book hit all the right notes. Axel is a good man with some deep wounds and a hard time letting go. Rena is a romantic that wants a happy ever after but is not sure that it will ever happen for her. These two have been dancing around each other for what seems like forever, and it was so much fun watching Axel trying to be romantic. The gifts he uses to try and woo Rena are hysterically bad, and his attempts to be everything he thinks he should be rather than himself were sad and hard for me to read. I loved what a softy he really is, despite his size and fighting reputation. I think the book hit a good blend of humor and deep feels, and I that all fans of the author are going to want to pict this one up. 

Kissing Game is a must read for fans, but still a great weekend reads for romance fans that love to read about a growly hero that is a marshmallow just below the surface.