Review – Protected from Malice

09 Tuesday Sep 2025

Posted by in Blog Tour, Book Review

≈ Leave a comment

Tags

, , ,

Protected from Malice

Blade & Arrow Shadow Team

by Gia Cobie

Blurb:

At first, I thought it was just paranoia.

It wouldn’t be the first time, after all. Ever since that night two years ago, I’ve never felt completely safe. So I convinced myself the strange sense of being watched was all in my head. My PTSD flaring up just as it had in the past.

Then I was nearly run off the road on my way home from work, and as much as I wished it was just a coincidence, I knew it wasn’t.

I could go to the police, but I wanted someone I trusted to help me.

So I called Rafe. My brother’s former teammate and best friend. And—though I’d never let on for a second—the man who’d held my heart ever since I met him.

As soon as Eden told me she was in trouble, I dropped everything to help her.

“Maybe it’s nothing,” she told me. “But things have been happening.”

I didn’t need to hear more. If Eden needed me, I would be there. And if someone was bothering her, I’d teach them that they messed with the wrong woman. Because as a bounty hunter and former Green Beret, I’m the last person they want to piss off.

When I arrive in Portland to find Eden terrified and in danger, every protective instinct comes roaring to the surface. And I’m furious that someone would dare try to hurt her.

I’m not the white knight I always thought Eden deserved. Far from it. But I’m a dangerous man when someone I care about is threatened. And Eden? I’ll do anything to protect her.

Protected from Malice is a slow burn friends-to-lovers story with a morally grey hero who’ll do anything to protect the people he loves, a brave and intelligent heroine, a team of Army veterans, thrilling twists, and plenty of sweet and steamy moments. No cliffhangers and a happily-ever-after guaranteed!

TW- References to prior SA

Buy Link:

https://a.co/d/g5oDkXe
Available in KU 

*****

Review:

I’m really enjoying these stories from Cobie, although she does put her heroines through a whole lot 🙂 Poor Eden just doesn’t catch a break, but she does have a great team to back her up. Between Rafe & her brother & their friends, they’ll figure out exactly what’s going on and keep her safe.

Eden is dealing with some heavy stuff and calls in Rafe when it becomes obvious that she needs help, and he calls for more help when things get even more serious. Time spent together as they try to figure out who wants to hurt her has Eden and Rafe growing closer and the guys finding a new purpose post-military.

Protected From Malice is the beginning of a new series, but with guys that returning readers will recognize from some of the previous stories. And will be happy to see getting a series of their own. One that includes all the slow burn heat, suspense and danger that Cobie’s other books are known for. Definitely looking forward to the rest of the guys getting their HEA.

*****

Author Info:

Gia Cobie is an award winning author living in upstate New York with her husband and small zoo of animals. She loves writing about protective heroes and the strong women they fall in love with.

In her spare time (when she has any!), Gia enjoys reading and spending time in the Adirondacks, and also has a weakness for reality romance shows, wine, and buying way too many books!

Follow Gia for updates on her latest releases!

Connect with Gia Cobie:

https://www.giacobie.com

~

Review – Knox

05 Friday Sep 2025

Posted by in Blog Tour, Book Review

≈ Leave a comment

Tags

, , , ,

Knox

The Comeback Duet Part Two

by Kimberly Knight & Rachel Lyn Adams

From USA Today bestselling authors Kimberly Knight and Rachel Lyn Adams comes the heartfelt conclusion to the Comeback Duet. Knox delivers a steamy, found-family MM baseball romance where love in the spotlight collides with family tensions and an injury that could cost them everything.

Blurb:

Being with Crew is the best thing that has ever happened to me. Even better than getting called up to the majors. We may have started as a fling, but he’s my end game now, the part of everything I want beyond baseball.

There’s another guy in his life now, though, and he’s making up for lost time with his son Grady. I’ve been trying to find my place with them, and most days I think I have. Other days, it’s hard to ignore how Crew might want something easier for him and his son, a future without hotel rooms, stadium lights, and road games.

When Grady’s mom gets into a car accident, everything becomes more uncertain. None of us know if she’s going to make it, and I can’t stop thinking about the choices Crew may need to make and what that’ll mean for us. If he walks away from the game to focus on his son, I’m not sure if there’s still a place in his world for someone who’s gone half the season.

Losing them would wreck me, and if they’re no longer mine, there’s no comeback from that.

Buy Link:

https://a.co/d/dLA7v51

Available in KU 

*****

Review:

I wrote in my review for Crew that I didn’t want any more drama for these two and I pretty much go what I asked for. It’s overflowing with steam and feels as the two of them try to find their footing with their relationship, their jobs, and Crew’s son. There is very little angst but just a slow burn as they struggle to figure out how everything fits together, often feeling like something has to give.

Especially Crew as he tries to make up for lost time with his son as well as help Mallory after the accident that was the cliffhanger for book 1. He wants to be with Crew and play baseball and be there with Grady and with Mallory but with spring training starting, and then the season, he’s away as much as he is home and he is stuh-ruhg-ling. He’s just not sure how he can balance everything without feeling like he’s missing out or letting someone down.

Unfortunately it often leaves Knox feeling a little on the outside. He’s a great boyfriend, and is wonderful with Grady, but so much has happened so quickly that he doesn’t always know how he fits. But that doesn’t stop him from jumping in with both feet and doing everything he can to support this little family they are making. Together, with the help of friends and family, surely they can figure it out.

It’s a good ending to their story, and I felt satisfied with where it took them, but I’m not sure it’s going to be for everyone. Especially when compared to Crew. This one still has all the emotions, but they are quieter than the gut punch that the first one was at times 🙂

*****

Author Info:

Kimberly Knight is a USA Today Bestselling author who lives in the Central Valley of California with her loving husband, who is a great research assistant, and young daughter who keeps her on her toes.

https://authorkimberlyknight.com/socialmedia

Rachel Lyn Adams is a USA Today Bestselling author who was born in Southern California and currently resides in the San Francisco Bay Area with her husband, five children, and a crazy number of fur babies. In 2017, she took a chance and published her very first book. Little did she know just how much that decision would change her life.

https://linktr.ee/rachellynadams

~

Review – Lucky Shot

28 Thursday Aug 2025

Posted by in Blog Tour, Book Review

≈ Leave a comment

Tags

, , ,

Lucky Shot

Moonshot Hockey #1

by Rebecca Jenshak

Blurb:

Nick Galaxy has zero interest in helping anyone write a love story—especially not one about him. He’s a single dad with enough on his plate, and the last thing he needs is a curious, chatty author poking around in his past.

But when Ruby shows up on his doorstep, notebook in hand and determined smile on her face, resistance becomes… complicated.

She’s supposed to be here for research. Instead, she’s moving into the empty cabin on his property, asking personal questions, and somehow roping him into teaching her how to skate. He’s not looking for love—but she’s writing it into every inch of his life.

And the more time they spend on the ice, the harder it is to pretend she doesn’t already have his heart.

Lucky Shot is a grumpy/sunshine, single dad, forced proximity hockey romance with found family, banter, and spice—all wrapped up in a guaranteed happily ever after.

Add to Goodreads: http://bit.ly/44qpePH

Download today or read for FREE with #kindleunlimited

Amazon: http://bit.ly/44BzAuH

Amazon Worldwide: https://mybook.to/awA9fy

*****

Review:

Clumsy and prone to saying her inside thoughts out loud, Ruby is adorable. She’s also dealing with a bit of writer’s block and self doubt. And the grumpy hockey player that’s supposed to help her with research on her next story. But she’s not going to let him get her down.

Nick is dealing with a lot coming into the summer (and I have to say I love that Jenshak actually has him address his problems with a professional – more of this!) and the last thing he wants is to deal with Ruby asking him questions and poking around in his life. But under all that grump is a good guy and she quickly gets under his skin, enough that he finds himself agreeing to help. And before long, he finds himself drawn to her quirkiness, positivity, and unwillingness to give up.

There were parts of this that were hilarious (you know there are going to be some entertaining stories coming from Nick’s teammates) and there was so much sweetness in the book too. From the unconventional way the guys loved & supported each other to Nick’s relationship with his dad. I loved how Nick’s friends just embraced her whole body *sigh* It’s another slow burn but from their meet cute to the grand gesture HEA, it just works. Looking forward to what comes next!

(It looks like there’s some returning characters here from other series, but can easily stand on its own.)

Review – The Office Bet

28 Thursday Aug 2025

Posted by in Blog Tour, Book Review, Contest

≈ Leave a comment

Tags

, , ,

The Office Bet

King Sports – Book Two

by Eden Finley

Release Date: August 21, 2025

Photographer: Wander Aguiar Photography
Model: Cole

Genre: M/M Workplace Romance Standalone

Tropes: Enemies to friends to lovers, forced proximity, sports agents/co-workers, secret relationship

Blurb:

Fox

There are only three things in life I’m passionate about: my family, sports, and hating Archer Holloway.

He’s the most prolific associate at the firm and out earns everyone at our level. Plus, he’s annoyingly good-looking and is somehow able to charm everyone. Everyone except me.

His athlete roster might be impressive, but his tactics for signing clients can be questionable at best.

So, when the chance arises to stealthily pitch to someone he’s gunning for, I don’t hesitate.

Two can play at this game.

Archer

I don’t understand why Lincoln Fox hates me. Okay, so maybe I signed a few athletes he was pursuing, but that’s not personal. It’s business.

I really do think he’d come to like me if he got to know me. He won’t give me the time of day though. He never has. Which is a shame because Fox is the most attractive man I’ve ever met.

The more he argues with me, the more everyone around us thinks there’s a spark between us. The office pool is over two thousand dollars now, but they’re backing the wrong horse. No one will win this bet because the chance of us hooking up are less than zero. Fox will never see me as anything more than an over-competitive jerk. What a waste of money. 

Add to your TBR List!

GOODREADS LINK

Purchase Link

Amazon Universal ~ https://geni.us/TheOfficeBetPL 

*****

Review:

When Archer and Fox find themselves having to work together, they develop an unlikely friendship. And while Archer definitely rubs Fox the wrong way early on, it doesn’t take long for those sparks to take a certain turn 🙂 Soon Fox finds out that there is more to Archer than he thought. And Archer realizes that some of Fox’s frustration with him might have been hiding other feelings. Causing both men to see each other, and themselves, differently.

Sometimes you want something with a little more …. excitement isn’t the right word … drama? angst? oomph? Whatever you want to call it. But other times a slow burn romance just hits the spot and The Office Bet falls into that category. It’s not for everyone but I really like them, especially when they are written by someone of Finley’s skill. Her stories always have great banter, a delicious amount of steam, and characters that keep me coming back.

**There are lots of appearances by characters from other stories (though this one is good as a stand alone) and I’m sure that is a treat for returning readers. I know I loved seeing the ones I’ve met before 🙂 **

*****

Author Info:

Eden Finley is an Amazon bestselling author who writes steamy contemporary romances that are full of snark and light-hearted fluff.

She doesn’t take anything too seriously and lives to create an escape from real life for her readers. The ideas always begin with a wackadoodle premise, and she does her best to turn them into romances with heart.

With a short attention span that rivals her son’s, she writes multiple different pairings: MM, MMF, and MF.

She’s also an Australian girl and apologises for her Australianisms that sometimes don’t make sense to anyone else.

Connect with Eden

Website: https://edenfinley.com/

Newsletter Signup: http://bit.ly/2owAsgY

Facebook Author Page: http://bit.ly/2GMjfag

Facebook Reader Group: http://bit.ly/2t1KqM4

Goodreads Author Page: http://bit.ly/2ouFzya

Twitter: http://bit.ly/2HQnyCv

Instagram: https://bit.ly/2xb5ylX

TikTok: https://bit.ly/3zm4DMj

Pinterest: https://bit.ly/3gS5aLZ

Amazon Author Page: http://amzn.to/2EV9Roi

Bookbub Author Page: http://bit.ly/2ouhBDq

*****

Giveaway:

$25 Amazon Gift Card

a Rafflecopter Giveaway

ENTER HERE

~

Review – Chasing Forever

26 Tuesday Aug 2025

Posted by in Blog Tour, Book Review

≈ Leave a comment

Tags

, , ,

Chasing Forever

Plain Daisy Ranch #4

by Piper Rayne

Blurb:

It was a fun Vegas getaway—until I woke up married to my ex-fiancé’s brother.

After Watson brother #1 ditched me at the altar, I stopped believing in happily-ever-afters. So I have no clue how I ended up saying “I do” to Brooks—Watson brother #2—somewhere between tequila shots and bad decisions.
Okay, that may not be true.

Sheriff Watson has been a charming thorn in my side ever since his brother left our small ranch town in his rearview mirror. He’s a little too steady, a little too sweet, and way too intuitive because he sees through my facade. But no matter how tempting he is, he’s still a Watson.

I demand an annulment. He refuses, bargaining four real dates before he signs.

Fine. I’ll sabotage each one and keep my heart safely locked away. It’s easier this way because he has no idea the secret I’m keeping.

Of course, Brooks doesn’t go down easy—he has enough faith for both of us. He tackles my fears at every turn, making me wonder what would happen if I went all in.

But trusting the wrong man once nearly ruined me—doing it again might finish the job.

Goodreads: https://bit.ly/479tHpK

Download today or read for FREE with Kindle Unlimited

https://books2read.com/C-F

Audiobook: https://books2read.com/C-F
Narrated by: Stephen Dexter & Vanessa Edwin

*****

Review:

I loved me some Brooks! He’s so sincere and understanding, a little bit naughty, and oh-so-caring. He’s willing to give Lottie the time and space she needs but also knows that she needs to be pushed occasionally to get out of her own way. I couldn’t get enough of his patience with her and their situation. He’s loved her for so long, knows her, and is willing to work for a chance with her.

Lottie has some understandable baggage from her relationship with the other Watsons and it’s kept her from committing not only to Brooks but to any guy. Little too much alcohol and the right time & place has some desires that she’s kept hidden, and refused to acknowledge, coming to the surface. And while she might fight it, even she knows that her heart isn’t really in it.

I’ve lived in a small town and I totally understand why she would feel like they were constantly judging her and talking about her and that she wouldn’t be willing to put herself out there any more. And the hurt she carries from her called off marriage, and the reaction of certain people, have her imagining judgement where none exists, which has her afraid to put herself out there more. But Brooks isn’t going to let her hide forever.

My heart broke for both Brooks & Lottie and what they had to go through because of members of his family. The choices they had to make and the repercussions of Lottie’s failed relationship … it’s not easy to get past but they have each other & everyone at Plain Daisy Ranch to get them through it. That big, boisterous, nosy family loves loud, supports loud, & gives each other a hard time loud and it makes for a great read & HEA.

Review – The Viscount’s Unwanted Bride

21 Thursday Aug 2025

Posted by in Book Review

≈ Leave a comment

Tags

, ,

The Viscount’s Unwanted Bride

Unconventional Brides #3

by Jayne Rivers

Blurb:

A trapped viscount. A disgraced debutante. A scandal that could ruin them both.

Lady Kate Drake’s reputation is in tatters after she’s discovered alone on a balcony with a gentleman by one of society’s biggest gossips. Even worse, the gentleman in question flees, leaving her to face the scorn of the ton alone.

The last thing she expects is for her erstwhile suitor to seek her out the next day to propose marriage—or to learn that he’s none other than the elusive Viscount Blackwell, who rumors claim is responsible for his late wife’s death.

Lady Kate is backed into a corner. She must either risk a lifetime of being shunned or put her safety—and her heart—on the line by taking a chance on a notorious stranger.

https://books2read.com/the-viscounts-unwanted-bride

*****

Review:

Regardless of what her family says, Kate has put pressure on herself to find a husband so she’s no longer a financial burden to her brother. And I like her for it – for her level-headedness, responsibility, and the care she has for her family. Unfortunately her first outing leads to a sticky situation.

Theo is carrying a lot on his shoulders and struggling with his grief & guilt & feelings of responsibility after his wife’s death. It’s lead him to lead a quiet life, out of the public eye, alone mostly except for his twin. Which I think is my favorite thing about Theo, how deeply he loves. His family, his brother, his wife … and he’d do just about anything for them.

While there’s some angst as Theo works to let go of the past and the fear that he’s been left with, it isn’t as angsty as it could have been. No outside interference from other parties, just them dealing with his loss & regret, and embracing a second chance at love.

The Viscount’s Unwanted Bride is a fast read about enjoyable characters with believable hangups & issues. While it may have been predictable, especially their third act issues, I enjoyed the simplicity of the story and the slow burn as they got to know each other better and fell in love.

(Part of a series but can be read as a stand alone.)

Review – Something to Prove

20 Wednesday Aug 2025

Posted by in Book Review

≈ Leave a comment

Tags

, , ,

Something to Prove

Smithton Bears #2

by Lane Hayes

Genre: contemporary, sports

Tropes: Small-town, College, Hockey, Geek/Jock, Light-angst, Opposites Attract

Blurb:

The hockey star, the influencer, and the deal of a lifetime.

TY

I’m going to the pros, baby! Deal made, contract signed. Now all I have to do is finish out my final season at Smithton and stay out of trouble. I like to have a good time, but don’t worry, I’ll behave.

What I won’t do is talk to that double-crossing influencer who’s been badgering me for an interview. No thanks.

I know Walker’s type—sweet as pie on the outside, a shark on the inside.

Get this…he wants to make a deal that sounds a lot like a bribe.

Not interested. No way.

But I am curious.

WALKER

I’ve never worked so hard for an interview in my life. Ugh!

Look, I get that Ty doesn’t like me. As in…he won’t return my calls and avoids me like the plague on campus.

Too bad. I’m not giving up.

I don’t want to beg, but I’m willing to barter. Every man has his price—and something to prove.

Even Ty.

Something to Prove is a low-angst, geek-jock MM bisexual college hockey romance featuring a hockey star and the adorkable influencer who’s determined to win him over…

Prior Reading: Recommended but not essential

AVAILABLE NOW

*****

Review:

There is just so much cuteness with these two. From the light enemies-to-lovers moments to their adorable segments on Walker’s show to their falling in love with a big HEA & epilogue. I just couldn’t get enough.

Walker and Ty may be a bit of opposites attract but they play off each other so well, full of wit and sass and a whole lot of sexiness. There’s light enemies-to-lovers at the beginning (which quickly turns into something else) and not a whole lot of angst, so I wouldn’t pick it up for that. And while their attraction may have been quick to flare, their relationship is more of a slow burn and deepening feelings as they get to know each other better.

This is definitely one of those that you just settle in and enjoy the ride.

Review – Breakaway Goals

19 Tuesday Aug 2025

Posted by in Book Review

≈ Leave a comment

Tags

, ,

Breakaway Goals

Standalone in the Evergreens universe

by Beth Bolden

Release Date: August 20

Designer: Ozark Witch Cover Design
Photographer: Cadwallader Photography, LLC
Model: Aaron Wolber

Blurb:

Tampa Sentinels Captain Hayes Montgomery has hero-worshipped Morgan Reynolds his entire career, watching as the larger-than-life hockey star has racked up stats that always seemed unreal. Unattainable. Unreachable.

Until Hayes himself is labeled “the next one” and to his surprise, he and Morgan end up on the same team together, playing for Team USA in a nation versus nation tournament.

Now Hayes’ hero isn’t just his teammate, but his linemate. They’re hot on the ice, and despite Morgan’s straight reputation, off it too.

It’s only ten days, but it’s the best ten days of his life. That shouldn’t be long enough for a hockey crush to morph into a real crush, but Hayes falls head over heels, launch-himself-off-a-cliff, wildly in love with Morgan, anyway.

They don’t play on the same team or even on the same coast. Normally, they’re never in the same zip code, but that doesn’t change Hayes’ feelings—or his regret when the fling ends.

Fast forward six years. Morgan’s retired, Hayes is writing his own name in the record books, and he’s sure he’s over it. Over him.

But then Morgan arrives in Tampa to watch his rookie son play for the Sentinels.

He doesn’t want to be hung up on his teammate’s dad, but it doesn’t matter how long it’s been or what he’s tried. Morgan still makes Hayes’ knees weak.

And when it turns out Morgan has his own Hayes’ shaped regret?

Maybe they can finally find their way back to each other again.

Tropes: second chance, age gap, he fell first/he fell harder, son’s captain, player x ex-player, pining, groveling

Available on: Amazon, Kindle Unlimited, paperback, and audio narrated by Darcy Stark (est September)

Preorder: https://readerlinks.com/l/4898260

*****

Review:

I haven’t read the other stories in the Evergreens universe, and I get the idea that we were teased a bit about Hayes and Morgan, but oh goodness this one stood up well on its own. Maybe it would have given me even more of the feels, IDK, but it definitely was a heart-wrencher.

Pretty much the first half is Hayes and Morgan falling in love. I liked how Bolden handled Morgan’s bi-awakening – with his acceptance of his son’s sexuality, I felt like it was a little easier for him to accept his own. It’s hot and sweet and fabulously perfect … until it isn’t.

The next quarter or so was definitely all the angst, with neither of them handling things well but it’s not really surprising. I mean, they are both carrying so much and there are so many things standing in their way. Would a clearing the air conversation have helped? Sure, but I feel like this was much more realistic for the kind of people they are. And I feel like they definitely came back into each other’s lives at the right time to get the HEA they deserve.

Are you looking for a rollercoaster of a read? Hope so because Bolden brings it ALL, both good and bad, and doesn’t let up until the end.

~

Spotlight – Something to Prove

12 Tuesday Aug 2025

Posted by in Blog Tour, Sneak Peek

≈ Leave a comment

Tags

, ,

Something to Prove

Smithton Bears #2

by Lane Hayes

Genre: contemporary, sports

Tropes: Small-town, College, Hockey, Geek/Jock, Light-angst, Opposites Attract

Blurb:

The hockey star, the influencer, and the deal of a lifetime.

TY

I’m going to the pros, baby! Deal made, contract signed. Now all I have to do is finish out my final season at Smithton and stay out of trouble. I like to have a good time, but don’t worry, I’ll behave.

What I won’t do is talk to that double-crossing influencer who’s been badgering me for an interview. No thanks.

I know Walker’s type—sweet as pie on the outside, a shark on the inside.

Get this…he wants to make a deal that sounds a lot like a bribe.

Not interested. No way.

But I am curious.

WALKER

I’ve never worked so hard for an interview in my life. Ugh!

Look, I get that Ty doesn’t like me. As in…he won’t return my calls and avoids me like the plague on campus.

Too bad. I’m not giving up.

I don’t want to beg, but I’m willing to barter. Every man has his price—and something to prove.

Even Ty.

Something to Prove is a low-angst, geek-jock MM bisexual college hockey romance featuring a hockey star and the adorkable influencer who’s determined to win him over…

Prior Reading: Recommended but not essential

AVAILABLE NOW

*****

Excerpt:

Sue me. I’d liked the peppy redhead’s vibe and though I’d deny it with my last breath, I’d thought Walker was cute with his wayward curls, tawny-brown eyes, and tight compact body. 

But that was before he’d sold out my best friend. 

I knew Langley and some of our other teammates thought I was being unreasonable and that Walker had atoned for his mistake, but he was done-zo in my book. 

I gave a curt nod and spun away. 

Langley followed, flinging a quick, “Later, dude” over his shoulder. 

“Hang on! Ty, may I have a word, please?” Walker called. 

I wasn’t going to reply. I didn’t owe him an explanation, and I was pretty damn sure he knew the score anyway. 

But Langley grabbed my elbow and leaned into my space. “Be nice, Ty. New school year, blank slate, and all that.” 

“Bullshit,” I coughed under my breath.

“C’mon, Jett forgave him. You can afford to be magnimonious too.”

“Magnanimous,” I corrected.

Langley rolled his eyes. “Whatever the fuck. The point is…you’re going to the AH-fuckin’-L. No reason to be bitter, right? At least hear him out.” 

With that, Langley strode away, leaving me to deal with the annoyingly cheery Walker Woodrow.

I was a good six inches taller and outweighed him by at least thirty pounds of muscle. My height, brawny size, and less-than-sunny demeanor should have been intimidating, but Walker was apparently immune. 

“Congratulations are in order,” he gushed. “AHL…wow! And to Jacksonville, no less.”

“You’re a hockey fan?” I heard myself ask out of the blue. 

“Honestly, I think everyone at Smithton is—or they will be, knowing they’ll be able to root for one of our own in the pros.” 

That wasn’t really an answer, but his smile was more brilliant than the last. It made him incandescent, as if he had some kind of inner glow. 

I had to admit, Walker had a good TV face. He wasn’t classically handsome, but that spark in him transmitted nicely on-screen. It made him interesting, and it made it seem as if he were interested in you. An excellent quality for a talk show host. Or a con artist.

“Thanks,” I replied tersely. “I have to get going.”

“I’ll walk with you.” He fell into step beside me, uninvited. “I know you’re probably busy getting ready for classes. I just finalized my schedule and bought a few online textbooks. OMG, highway robbery. Am I right? I can’t believe how much collegiate e-books cost.”

His melodic laughter rang between the buildings like birdsong. 

Do not cave. He might look pretty, but the man is rotten to the core. 

I stopped in my tracks. “Is there something you wanted?”

“Actually…yes.” Walker bit into his bottom lip and gave a sheepish look. “I’d love to interview you for What’s New, Smithton? Our audience will go nuts for a chance to hear all about the draft, how it’s changed your life so far, what you imagine life will be like in Florida next year, and…what it’s like being an out bisexual athlete on the rise. The interview itself is generally thirty minutes long. Super low-key. We could meet at the rink or at my—” 

“No.”

He recoiled as if I’d punched him in the gut. “I…uh, I can work around your schedule, of course, and—” 

“No,” I repeated.

“Um…is there a problem?” Walker asked carefully. 

“No problem with me. I just don’t want anything to do with you. And I’m not going to change my mind.” I stepped away from him, relishing his pointedly shocked expression. “Tell your followers that’s what’s new in Smithton.”

Okay, not my best line, but it did the trick. Walker blinked like an owl, stunned into silence. Good. 

I quelled the strong desire to flip him off, settling for the nasty sneer I usually reserved for riling opponents on the ice. Curled lips, ugly stare with dead eyes…not pretty at all. He flinched, which kinda made me feel bad. But fuck that. My anger was totally justified, and it pissed me off that he dared to pull the innocent act. 

Did he really think I’d forget what he’d done? Not fucking likely.

Maybe he didn’t owe me an apology, but I certainly didn’t owe him my time. 

I hoped he’d gotten the message loud and clear ’cause this—right here, right now—was the last interaction I’d ever have with Walker fucking Woodrow.

*****

Author Info:

Lane Hayes  lives in sunny Southern California with her amazing husband, who thankfully doesn’t mind cooking, and their fabulous fox red Labrador, George, who’s pure mischief. Both provide oodles of inspiration for the low-angst, humorous books Lane loves to write.

She’s been telling stories about sexy, funny, sometimes geeky and quirky men who find love for a dozen years now and loving every minute. In her previous life, she sat at a desk and dealt with numbers, so yes…romance is much more satisfying!

Lane loves tea, travel, and chocolate…in any order. Add a book and she’s set!

My Readers’ Group, Lane’s Lovers: https://bit.ly/3aIbMYg
My Newsletter: https://bit.ly/3cICfaK
Website: www.lane-hayes.com
Twitter: twitter.com/LaneHayes3
FB: facebook.com/LaneHayesAuthor
Amazon Author Page: amazon.com/author/lanehayes
BookBub: bookbub.com/authors/lane-hayes
Instagram: instagram.com/lanehayesauthor
Goodreads: goodreads.com/LaneHayes
Bluesky: lanehayes.bsky.social
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@lane.hayes6

*****

Review – Jessica’s Hero

12 Tuesday Aug 2025

Posted by in Blog Tour, Book Review

≈ Leave a comment

Tags

, , ,

Jessica’s Hero

Heroes of Sleepy Hollow #6

by Gia Cobie

Blurb:

Seventeen years ago, I made a terrible mistake.

One I never imagined could have such horrible consequences.

But I thought—I hoped—that time would bring forgiveness. That people would realize I was just a foolish girl back then and not the responsible woman I’ve become.

I was wrong. Instead, I can’t go a day without someone in town reminding me of what a bad person I am. I can’t avoid the judging looks and whispered insults and insinuations that I’d be better off if I’d just leave Sleepy Hollow for good.

Except I can’t. And I don’t want to. Not when Sleepy Hollow is the only place that’s ever felt like home. But when the threats turn dangerous, I know it’s time to ask for help. The only problem? No one believes me.

It all started when I found Jess crying in her car outside the police station.

I couldn’t believe it when she told me she’d been turned away by the very department I work for. And worse yet, she wasn’t even surprised by it.

At first, it seems like someone’s trying to scare Jess out of town. Then it becomes clear their intentions are much more sinister, and the threats against her keep escalating.

I don’t care what other people in town say about her. All I care about is that Jess needs me.

As a police officer, it’s my job to protect. But when it comes to Jess, it’s so much more than a job. It’s protecting the woman I’m falling in love with.

Jessica’s Hero is a small-town romantic suspense with a protective police officer hero, a wounded heroine in search of redemption, action and danger, forced proximity, thrilling twists, and plenty of sweet and steamy moments. Can be read as a standalone novel.

Buy Link:

https://a.co/d/9SPB3lB

Available in KU 

*****

Review:

Kane is pretty much perfect (which may be annoying to some) as a boyfriend – sweet and supportive. He is a bit of a love bomber and can be a bit pushy as well as fretful about how he’s received but he means well. He works hard to lift Jessica up and help her find confidence in herself again.

Even tho we get Kane’s perspective, it really felt like Jessica’s story and I felt so bad for her. People can be small minded and hold on to things for a long time (although I am surprised that no one stepped up for her before Kane). I can also understand why she would feel self-conscious and anxious. Between her school mates & an absolutely awful man, it’s really hard to let some of that go but with Kane’s help she starts to see herself as strong and beautiful.

I enjoyed the suspense element of the story. The culprit was a surprise to me but it wasn’t totally out of left field, which can easily happen when an author tries to surprise readers. I was satisfied with how things are wrapped up, both with the romance and the mystery.

*****

Author Info:

Gia Cobie is an award winning author living in upstate New York with her husband and small zoo of animals. She loves writing about protective heroes and the strong women they fall in love with.

In her spare time (when she has any!), Gia enjoys reading and spending time in the Adirondacks, and also has a weakness for reality romance shows, wine, and buying way too many books!

Follow Gia for updates on her latest releases!

Connect with Gia Cobie:

https://www.giacobie.com

~