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Review – The Baller

16 Tuesday Jul 2024

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The Baller

The New York Lions #3

by Lulu Moore

Blurb:

My name is Lux Weston and I’m a matter of national security, apparently.

All I did was meet a beautiful girl in a bookstore, then rescue her. One… twice… and maybe a third time—from a creeper.

The problem? The creeper turned out to be Secret Service, and the girl… well, she’s Radley Andrews—the President’s only daughter.

It has disaster written all over it. I should stay away.

She’s a student, I’m a major league baseball player.

She’s trying to hide from the spotlight, I’m standing underneath it.

Not to mention I’ve never had a relationship, and Radley has her own demons to battle.

When she starts looking at me the way I’m looking at her, staying away becomes impossible. Soon we’re sneaking secret dates and I’m making her breakfast.

While Radley might be the most beautiful girl I’ve ever seen, she’s become something better.

Mine.

Add to Goodreads: https://bit.ly/4e1Cn4g

Download today or read for FREE with Kindle Unlimited

https://geni.us/NgQbWy

Audible: https://adbl.co/45cilQK
Narrated by: CJ Bloom & Chris Brinkley

*****

Review:

This is the first of Moore’s books that I’ve read and from their very first meeting to their HEA, I loved it. Lux is smart, caring, and sensitive to Radley’s needs. She’s dealing with some trauma from her past, but she wants to move on, to be “normal”. And Lux and their friends are there every step of the way to support her, push her, and help her when life throws her a curve ball.

I will say that I wished that Radley was just a touch older. I understand, based on her past, why she needed to be 19. And her history probably helped her to grow up pretty darn quick, but it still is awfully young. I did appreciate the way Moore had Radley working with a therapist and putting those sessions into work in her real life. (I love how authors today are normalizing mental health in stories.)

Full of humor, steam, and straight up adorableness, The Baller might have been my first Moore story but it won’t be my last.

*****

Author Info:

Lulu started writing by accident, and somehow found herself stuck in a fictional world of ice hockey, baseball and billionaires. A world she has no plans to leave. She’s the creator of The New York Players Series, The Tuesday Club Series, and The New York Lions – the worst team in the M.L.B.

More recently she’s ventured across the Atlantic to where her latest novel is set – the beautiful cities of Oxford and Cambridge, and the annual rowing showdown on the River Thames.

She’s a big fan of strong heroines, because those fierce alphas need someone to keep them in check. You’ll find hear navigating her way through Romance Land one HEA at a time, and trying to figure out the latest social media platform she needs to post to.

Connect with Lulu

Website: https://lulumoorebooks.com

Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/21005275.Lulu_Moore/

Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/stores/Lulu-Moore/author/B08WPY8YSW/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/LuluMooreBooks

Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/560932142401799

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lulumoorebooks/

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@lulumoorebooks

Bookbub: https://www.bookbub.com/profile/lulu-moore

Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/lulumoorebooks/

~

Review – Adventures of a Bookworm

12 Friday Jul 2024

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Adventures of a Bookworm

Paige Turner #1

by Kathleen Brooks

Blurb:

What happens when the bookworm becomes the main character?

Paige Turner and her book club friends live a thousand lives through the characters of their romance books. In real life, they’re just one of the millions of people running around New York City. That is until a New Year’s Resolution to lose her virginity forces Paige to step out from behind the pages of her books. Paige strikes out on romantic adventures inspired by the main characters of her favorite romance books from every genre and trope to fulfill her resolution.

Paige learns that it’s a truth universally acknowledged that billionaire bosses are hot, that some meet-cutes aren’t cute at all, that furries can fill in for shifters in a pinch to fulfill a paranormal romance trope, and sometimes that sexy cop really is there to arrest you.

Paige is in for the adventure of her life, from virginity auctions to secret clubs to emergency room visits. But she learns that it’s not the romance that makes the heroine the main character. It’s finding her inner strength, determination, and confidence that makes her the heroine of her own story. Can Paige fulfill her New Year’s resolution without getting arrested or fired and maybe even find herself and love by the end of the year? 

https://kathleen-brooks.com/books/adventures-of-a-bookworm

*****

Review:

I’ll admit I was expecting, based on the blurb, for this to have a HEA/HFN ending but apparently it’s part of a series … good thing it was so dang fun that I’ll be lining up to get the next one! I love Paige and her friends – how they support each other, care for each other, and give each other those little pushes when they are needed. And are right there in the middle of every crazy adventure.

Whew, does Paige have some adventures. I love that she uses romance tropes as the catalyst for each one and Brooks does a good job of making them wacky and humorous, but not so out there that they aren’t believable. I mean, sure there are a lot of coincidences. No way would that many people just happen to be in the same part of New York at these amazingly convenient (and inconvenient) times. But I was glued to the pages, anxious to see what scrapes Paige would get into next, what hottie she would find, and what she’d learn along the way.

Loaded with humor, supportive friends, and more than a few hotties, Adventures of a Bookworm is a fun romp but it’s also more. It’s about Paige and her friends putting themselves out there. Learning about themselves, going after what they want, and growing into more confident, stronger people. I’m not usually a cliffhanger type of person – and its important to note that there is one here – but I’ve discovered that I’m willing to put up a lot for a good read. And Brooks definitely delivers.

Review – The One I Stood Beside

02 Tuesday Jul 2024

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The One I Stood Beside

Plain Daisy Ranch #2

by Piper Rayne

Blurb:

It’s the classic story—best friends since childhood agree to a fake marriage, thinking they can pretend to love each other without their relationship changing.

Jude would do anything for me. He’s stood by my side since we were six, and I’ve done the same for him.

When my father dies, leaving our family farm drowning in debt and on the brink of being auctioned, I’m not surprised Jude steps in to help. I just never dreamed he’d fall to bended knee and devise a plan for us to fool everyone into thinking there’s more than a lifelong friendship between us.

Soon, I’m moving into his house, we’re planning a wedding on his family’s ranch, and we discover a new side to our relationship. I keep reminding myself it’s not real—it’s only to secure a loan to save the farm.

I’ve secretly loved Jude all my life, and now that I know how good we are together, I’m not sure we can return to being just friends.

Add to Goodreads: https://bit.ly/4212SRK

Download today on Amazon, Apple Books, Audible, Barnes & Noble, Google Play, and Kobo!

https://books2read.com/toisb

Audio Narrated by: Troy Duran & Rose Dioro

*****

Review:

Jude & Sadie have been friends for decades and everyone is just waiting for the day that they get together. Of course, they both want more but, not knowing how the other feels, neither is willing to take the chance on losing their friendship. Until life throws Sadie a curve ball that changes everything.

I’ll admit I loved the story leading up to their wedding. They are great friends and there are so many great moments as they work their way to the point of getting married. And I loved them together. Sweet and sexy, fitting together so well. I just wished they’d do a better job of talking to each other … argh! I mean, it’s pretty much par for the course when it comes to their relationship because otherwise it wouldn’t have taken SO long for them to get together. But … *sigh* … Grovelling Jude is pretty darn sweet, tho 🙂

The One I Stood Beside is a perfect example of why any book with Piper Rayne on the cover is a must read for me. The characters are always interesting, realistic, and fun, with great relationships with their partners, friends, and families. Once they get over any drama, of course. And there will be some kind of issue but it doesn’t seem forced or too much. Instead there is just the right amount of bumps on the way to an enjoyable HEA ending.

I love all of the misc members of the Noughton family and I’m looking forward to what Piper Rayne has in store for us next!

(Can easily stand on its own but there’s only one other story so why not catch up!)

*****

Author Info:

Piper Rayne is a USA Today Bestselling Author duo who write “heartwarming humor with a side of sizzle” about families, whether that be blood or found. They both have e-readers full of one-clickable books, they’re married to husbands who drive them to drink, and they’re both chauffeurs to their kids. Most of all, they love hot heroes and quirky heroines who make them laugh, and they hope you do, too!

Connect with Piper Rayne

Website: www.PiperRayne.com

Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/15810938.Piper_Rayne

Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Piper-Rayne/e/B01ND0R15R

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/PiperRayne/

Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/PiperRaynesUnicorns

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/authorpiperrayne/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/PiperRayneRocks

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@authorpiperrayne

Bookbub: https://www.bookbub.com/authors/piper-rayne

Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/authorpiperrayne/_created/

Other: https://www.etsy.com/shop/PiperRayne?ref=shop_sugg

Verve: https://ververomance.com/app/PiperRayne

Threads: https://www.threads.net/@authorpiperrayne

~

Review – Restraint

19 Wednesday Jun 2024

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Restraint

Stingrays Hockey #1

by Mari Carr

Blurb:

Girlfriend…without benefits?

Hometown hockey hero, Blake has life completely figured out. He’s footloose and fancy free with the world’s coolest job and an endless parade of puck bunnies ready to help him celebrate his victories. The status quo is working for him, so why does he agree to co-parent a stray puppy with his too-serious, workaholic neighbor, Erika? And why is he so annoyed when she suddenly starts dating some tool named Doug? And why can’t he stop finding excuses to see her and touch her and kiss her and… She’s not his girlfriend, right?

Erika has enough on her plate as an ER doctor without adding any more stress to her life. So adopting a dog with Blake, the fun-loving, never-take-anything-serious, commitment-phobe across the hall is a stupid idea, right? Of course, she also probably shouldn’t be his plus-one for charity galas either. Or seeking comfort from him during a thunderstorm. Or kissing his five-for-fighting boo-boos better. Or letting him teach her how to “reduce stress” with her personal toy collection. After all, he’s not her boyfriend. Is he?

So what happens when two people reluctant to commit find love where they least expect it… Right across the hall.

Buy Links:

Amazon https://a.co/d/j2e0SxA 

Apple https://apple.co/4bn2qBl 

Kobo https://bit.ly/3wyHdW3 

Google Play https://bit.ly/3yoEVZT

*****

Review:

Oh man, this was such an easy read for me! I’m pretty sure this is the first book by Carr that I’ve read and I really enjoyed it. The relationship between Erika and Blake is so sweet and fun. They support each other, make sure that they are taking care of themselves, but aren’t afraid to give each other heck when they need it.

I kinda wish we’d gotten to see them together during the off-season when it seems like they spend the majority of their free time with each other. Or even in casual social situations with the rest of the team. I’d love to see more of those relaxed interactions because they are just the cutest together.

I think the best things are the moments when each of them realize their feelings for the other and the truth of their relationship. It’s funny and sweet and the meet cute equivalent for a friends-to-lovers trope. And while Carr had the opportunity to do some third act super-drama, I appreciate the restraint (pun not intended). The two of them just really deserved more than that so I’m glad she didn’t go there.

Restraint is low on drama, humorous, steamy, and entertaining … just all around enjoyable. And after getting glimpses of the rest of the team, I’m adding their stories to my TBR list. I’m also definitely going to be checking out Carr’s backlist!

*****

Author Info:

Virginia native Mari Carr is a New York Times and USA TODAY bestseller of contemporary sexy romance and romantic suspense novels. With over two million copies of her books sold, Mari was the winner of the Romance Writers of America’s Passionate Plume award for her novella, Erotic Research. She has over a hundred published works, including her popular Wild Irish and Compass books, along with the Trinity Masters series she writes with Lila Dubois.

Connect with Mari Carr: 

https://maricarr.com

~

Review – Hard to Fake

18 Tuesday Jun 2024

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Hard to Fake

Denver Kodiaks #1

by Piper Lawson

Blurb:

It’s not every day you ask your older brother’s teammate to be your fake boyfriend. But desperate times call for gorgeous, impulsive measures.

Miles Garrett is a pro basketball player with a heartstopping smile and infamous cocky charm.

But to me, he’s always been more than a celebrity. Miles is the guy who puts friends and family first…and my college crush.

When my sorority sister decides to bring my ex to our reunion, I need a plus-one who can have my back and save my pride. Asking Miles is the perfect solution.

Until he raises the stakes for both of us.

He says he’s only playing to win. He’ll be the best fake boyfriend I’ve ever had.

But his gaze hunts mine across a crowded room. He protects me with a fierceness that steals my breath. Our just-for-show kisses ignite a wildfire inside me.

I’m fighting feelings that have been simmering for years. Soon our pretend relationship starts feeling dangerously legit…

Because it’s hard to fake what’s always been real.

Add to Goodreads: https://bit.ly/422dFv1

Download today on Amazon, Apple Books, Barnes & Noble, Google Play, and Kobo!

Amazon: https://bit.ly/3Hj5MI1

Apple Books: https://bit.ly/3Ho2hQw

Nook: https://bit.ly/421HVq6

Kobo: https://bit.ly/48yQjzD

Google Play: https://bit.ly/4aXh8iM

*****

Review:

Like her King of the Court series, Lawson splits this story into thirds. Cliffhangers aren’t usually my thing, and I had no idea that’s how KotC was going to be, but I enjoyed the heck out of it. She showed me that New Adult romances can have a delightful mix of drama, growth, and emotion. And with that one trilogy, Piper Lawson won her spot on my must read author list.

Hard to Fake is just as good as I expected it to be. Brooke is dealing with some issues with her family, her mother and her brother, as well as facing an upcoming sorority reunion where she’s facing a must impress situation. As well as an old boyfriend. It’s putting some stress on her and has her finding help in an unlikely place.

Miles is the good time guy – always up for a joke or a good time. But he also knows the value of hard work and dedication to his team, his family. That includes stepping in when Brooke needs someone at her back, someone to show the haters and support her as she tries to win an important contract. Of course, time spent together, and moments when acting turns to something more, has them quickly finding themselves over their heads.

I love Brooke’s sassiness and her drive to make it on her own. She’s had a lot of years having to watch everything she does, how she looks, how it’s perceived. It’s impressive she’s as solid as she is but as she’s building a life of her own sometimes those expectations don’t match up with her wants. I’m looking forward to seeing what it looks like as she embraces being her own person.

Miles obviously has some issues from his childhood, which we see here & there. He’s emotionally available to his grandmother and his teammates & friends, but he’s adamantly against getting involved romantically. There is definitely something deeper going on with him and I’m so looking forward to getting those answers.

Being only a third of the story leaves us with a lot of questions and hints at what might come next. If you aren’t prepared for that I can see why it would be upsetting, but I like the way Lawson builds us up and leaves us wanting for more. We are given an opportunity to get to know our characters a little bit and to have them interact with each other but not rush to a HEA. Bring on book 2, Piper!

*****

Author Info:

Piper Lawson is a Wall Street Journal and USA Today bestselling author of smart and steamy romance.

She writes women who follow their dreams, best friends who know your dirty secrets and love you anyway, and complex heroes you’ll fall hard for.

Piper lives in Canada with her tall and brilliant husband. She’s a sucker for dark eyes, dark coffee, and dark chocolate. 

Connect with Piper

Website: https://www.piperlawsonbooks.com

Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/13680088.Piper_Lawson

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/piperlawsonbooks

Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/piperlawsonromance/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/piperlawsonbooks

Bookbub: https://www.bookbub.com/authors/piper-lawson

~

Review – The Summer Escape

14 Friday Jun 2024

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The Summer Escape

Sunrise Cove series

by Jill Shalvis

Blurb:

Secrets are revealed and forbidden sparks ignited in this sizzling Sunrise Cove tale of enemies to lovers, redemption, missing treasures, and love.

Anna Moore didn’t just wake up one day and decide to go on a wild quest — especially since her life no longer lends itself to wild anything — so how in the world does she end up racing against the clock with Owen Harris, a sexy, enigmatic adventurist, to prove her beloved dad innocent of stealing a million-dollar necklace? 

It’s all Wendy’s fault. Her older, bossy sister, who’s seven months pregnant and on bed rest in their small Lake Tahoe hometown, is desperate to clear their dad’s name. Owen though is convinced he’s guilty as hell and wants to return the jewelry back to its rightful owner—his elderly great aunt. Together they go on a scavenger hunt for clues to the past (with Wendy remotely along for the ride via an ear bud, supplying a running wry commentary to boot). 

On opposing sides and suspicious of each other as they are, Anna and Owen still can’t deny the inexplicable and explosive chemistry between them on this heart-stopping adventure, the outcome of which will prove the necklace isn’t the only thing stolen — their hearts have been as well.

*****

Review:

This isn’t a romantic suspense and I think that might help a lot of people. Shalvis writes about her characters – facing their pasts, dealing with secrets, and coming to terms with their emotions. Anna’s job and the mystery over the stolen items is just an excuse to her meeting Owen and figuring out if she’s ready for the HEA.

Anna’s repeated insistence that any relationship with Owen has an end date may get old for some but I think it works for her. You know that what she says doesn’t match her growing feelings for him. She’s scared but her heart really wants something more. She’s just got to give in and trust that he’ll take care of it.

Owen claims to be as relationship shy but he’s much more open to his feelings. I appreciate that, and his patience, as he spends more time with Anna. He’s a good guy, and gives to those he cares about. His willingness to put himself out there is admirable.

I enjoyed Anna’s sister’s bossiness and the love she shows through her pushiness. She’s not going to be for everyone, but I liked her and her relationship with her husband & her sister. And there’s plenty of amusing moments around carrying 3 babies.

There isn’t a lot of action in the book but it’s not that kind of book. It’s about the people and their feelings. I think readers that understand that going in will appreciate it more.

(Part of a series but these are truly stand alones with just a location in common.)

~

Review – Totally Geeked

11 Tuesday Jun 2024

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Totally Geeked

Love In Play Series, Book 2

by Becca Jackson

Blurb:

Harrison’s love life is a parade of fun, flirty encounters thanks to every dating app you can imagine, but nothing sticks. Finally, sick of the endless cycle of Friday night hookups, he hits uninstall on the apps and challenges the universe to show him that he deserves someone better.

What he didn’t expect was the universe throwing him a curveball in the form of his best friend’s younger brother. Despite being best friends with Gordon for years, he’s never actually met his siblings and even half-joked they didn’t exist.

But there they are, at a party at Gordon’s place, and one brother, Arlo, is seriously hard to ignore. He’s nothing like Gordon. Quiet, adorable, and totally off-limits… which sucks. But when Harrison spots an opportunity to help him steady his nerves on his children’s book tour, he jumps at the chance to get to know him better, because spending time with him feels like the most right thing he’s done in forever.

The more time they spend together, the less Harrison can imagine being with anyone else. But going after what he wants means betraying his best friend. Can he find the courage to catch life’s most unexpected pitches?

Universal Link

Add to Goodreads

*****

Excerpt:

While Noah was a ball of energy at the outset, Arlo clutches a book against his front with his casted hand like it could somehow create a barrier between him and everything else in the world.

“I’m Harrison, but my friends call me Harry,” I say, and he turns toward me. His big gorgeous blue eyes lock on mine and my stomach does a weird spinny thing. I really should have eaten before I came.

“Hi,” he almost whispers, pulling his hand free of his brother and using it to tuck his red hair behind his ears. He really doesn’t look much like Gordon at all, not like Noah. They both have the same flame red hair, sure. But Arlo’s is long, and hangs loosely around his face like a curtain he can hide behind, it contrasts beautifully with his porcelain skin and bright blue eyes and I find myself unable to look away.

*****

Review:

Harry has been struggling to find the one, although he’ll admit that using an app is probably not the way to go 🙂 Then he meets adorable, artsy Arlo. Unfortunately, Arlo is off-limits as the brother of Harry’s best friend. (I think Gordon might be over-reacting a bit – he admits that Harry is a good person – but he’s had lots of years being the one to watch over his brothers so …) But time spent together has them deciding that their attraction is one that can’t be ignored. Which of course goes the way you think it will and, while I do understand why Gordon might be upset with the way things play out, I can also see why the guys think this is the best way.

There’s not a lot of depth or character growth with Harry and Arlo. It’s a quick read but all sorts of fun. Full of sweetness and deepening feelings as readers are given a peek into their growing emotions and their oh-so-spicy alone time.

I’ve only read one other book by Jackson and, based on these two, I think she’s going on my must read author list. Her characters are interesting and her stories are entertaining & steamy. What’s next, Becca?!?

*****

Author Info:

Becca Jackson writes MM romance that delivers heart, heat, and happily ever afters for some totally adorkable and fabulous guys.

Becca’s books have all your favorites, small-town romances, bi-awakenings, sports, friends to lovers, and enemies to lovers too, but no matter the trope that takes your fancy, you’ll always find a happily ever after.

Connect with Becca:

Instagram: https://geni.us/BeccaJacksonInsta
Tiktok: https://geni.us/BeccaJacksonTiktok
Facebook Profile: https://geni.us/BeccaJacksonFacebook
Facebook Group: https://geni.us/BeccaJacksonFBGroup
Website: https://geni.us/BeccaJacksonWeb
Reader Group/newsletter: https://geni.us/beccamail

*****

Giveaway:

To celebrate the release of Totally Geeked, Becca is giving away a $20 Amazon Voucher!

Enter the Rafflecopter giveaway for your chance to win!

A Rafflecopter Giveaway

*****

Review – Sterling Streak

06 Thursday Jun 2024

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Sterling Streak

Sterling Falls #3

by L.B. Dunbar

Blurb:

Love was a losing battle for this country music darling and a single dad, baseball star until one night brings them together and one small town sets the playing field for a possible winning streak.

They call me Lady Boss. Maneater. Queen. But beneath the makeup, blond wig, and glitzy costumes, I’m just a country girl who likes to sing. I don’t hate men, I’m just struggling to find a good one. I’ve learned my lesson. Fool me once, and it will never, ever happen again. So I’m baffled when I meet Ford Sylver.

A superstar in his own right as the centerfielder for the Chicago Anchors baseball team, plus a single dad to three adorable little girls, we share a moment when I save his firm backside and pretend he’s mine. Something that he can never be.

Only, when he suffers a season-changing injury and I need a place to disappear, we both end up back in Sterling Falls, where I’m suddenly and unwittingly his nanny. 

There’s danger in having a wild side. I’ll try anything once. However, forced into close quarters with Ford, acting as his personal nurse, and caring for his three little ones might backfire. Because I’m staring at all I ever wanted and never thought would happen for me.

After losing at love in the past, could I finally be on a winning streak?

Buy Link:

https://a.co/d/dMtjRK2
Available in KU

*****

Review:

Cadence was the best. She’s strong but also vulnerable, struggling with what the career that she loves means for the rest of her life, her privacy, her relationships. It’s not easy but she definitely handles it like a boss, without letting it make her lose her big, caring heart. I do wish we’d gotten a little more of her side of things outside of her time with Ford because I’d love to see her more in her element. As it is, she’s pretty darn awesome – loving Ford’s kids, supporting him when he needs it, and fitting in seamlessly into their lives.

Ford has had a difficult few months but as a single dad he’s got to keep it together. Even if it means having to deal with unresolved issues from his childhood. I assume that there is more to those family dynamics in some of the other stories, but since this is my first (and it is resolved well) I would have liked a bit more because it is so important to why Ford is the man he is. Probably a good reason to read some more books!

***slight spoilers ahead***

I will say that I expected more from Ford towards the end. I understand that he’s been hurt, fresh out of a relationship (maybe too fresh) that ended badly, but he has some bad reactions and I felt like Cadence let him get away with it a little too much. I understand that he felt bad for it but c’mon man. I mean she does a good job of standing up for herself and removing herself from it, but I think he could have begged a little more 🙂

My first from Dunbar was enjoyable, sweet, and satisfying. Looking forward to seeing what else she comes up with!

*****

Author Info:

L.B. Dunbar loves sexy silver foxes, second chances, and small towns. If you enjoy older characters in your romance reads, including a hero with a little silver in his scruff and a heroine rediscovering her worth, then welcome to romance for those over 40. L.B. Dunbar’s signature works include women and men in their prime taking another turn at love and happily ever after. She’s a USA TODAY Bestseller as well as #1 Bestseller on Amazon in Later in Life Romance with her Lakeside Cottage and Road Trips & Romance series. L.B. lives in Chicago with her own sexy silver fox.

To get all the scoop about the self-proclaimed queen of silver fox romance, join her on Facebook at Loving L.B. or receive her monthly newsletter, Love Notes.

Connect with L.B. Dunbar:

https://linktr.ee/lbdunbarwrites

~

Review – Thin Ice

03 Monday Jun 2024

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Thin Ice

The Elmwood Stories, Book 4

by Lane Hayes

Blurb:

The hunky dad, the hockey coach, and a new start…

Bryson

Elmwood isn’t good for my love life. Hey, I’m a positive person and I have nothing but wonderful things to say about small-town living, but I haven’t had a date in years. That’s fine—my son is and always has been my number one focus.

Except now he’s grown and gone. And it’s lonely.

Okay, yes, the new hockey coach is hot and single, but he’s off-limits. Smitty’s trouble with a capital T, and his baggage might outweigh mine. Besides, we said nothing would happen after “that” night. It was a one-time, never to be repeated deal.

At least…that’s what I thought.

Smitty

Am I sad about retiring from pro hockey? Honestly, no. I can’t remember the last time I wasn’t in pain. I need a rest and I could use a distraction from unwelcome memories at home. Stat.

So…Elmwood.

Look, we all know I won’t last a whole season of coaching high school kids, but stepping in till they find a better candidate is a good temporary plan. And Bryson’s here.

There’s something about the hot dad with the sunny smile and bad dad jokes that makes me feel alive again. I’m not in the market for forever—been there, done that. Look, I’ve taken risks for my sport, but I’m not giving my heart away again. I know thin ice when I see it.

Or do I?

Universal Link

Add to Goodreads

*****

Excerpt:

Smitty gamely followed me to the next vignette at Pinecrest’s premiere home and furniture boutique. “It’s a coffee table, Bry. It serves two functions—a footrest and a place to leave dishes…and the remote control. Anything is fine.”

“Yeah, right,” I huffed. “Somehow I doubt the guy who couldn’t live with yellow walls and had lots of opinions about the sectional he special ordered doesn’t care about the coffee table that will go in the same room.”

Smitty darted his gaze around the store and leaned in close. “Places like this intimidate the fuck out of me. It smells like a perfume factory and everyone is smiling…but their eyes are dead. Like they’re zombies. Is this a Pinecrest thing or a bougie thing? I don’t do well with hot cotchure.”

I burst into laughter. “Haute couture?”

“Sure, whatever.”

I brushed my hand against his in a show of solidarity, then linked our pinkies for a brief moment and pointed at a handsome dark-wood coffee table with a wide base. “What about that one?”

Smitty shrugged. “Looks nice.”

“I think so too.” I clandestinely checked the tag. “Yikes. It’s pricey. Let’s keep looking.”

“Do they have a coffee table with cupholders?”

“Absolutely not, and why would anyone want a cupholder in a coffee table?”

Smitty widened his eyes comically. “Are you kidding me? Why would anyone not want a safe place to plop a cup? You never have to worry about spilling a drink or knocking it over, and you wouldn’t have to fumble for it when you’re watching a game, ’cause your cup is right where you left it.”

“Okay, that’s a whole lot of nonsense. And thankfully, a moot point.” I glanced at our surroundings as if to be sure that was true and noticed the salesperson watching us from the register. I couldn’t remember her name off the top of my head, but I was pretty sure I’d sold her and her partner a house two years ago. I lowered my voice and added, “They don’t have such a thing, but even if they did, I’d stop you from buying it.”

“How? I’m bigger than you. And I’m fast. I could whip out my credit card in a flash and shove this fucker into my truck before you could say ‘No, bad table!’ ”

*****

Review:

I, like pretty much everyone else apparently, loved Smitty. He’s like a big, likable puppy who just throws his whole self into things. He’s struggling a bit with his past and where he’s going next so he’s taking a bit of time in Elmwood to figure things out. It definitely doesn’t hurt that Bryson is nearby.

We’ve met Bryson before and most of us were curious about his story. He’s such a great dad and an upstanding member of the community but there has to be more there, right? Of course because he’s just a bit too … perfect 🙂 There are issues in his past, things that have left him a little scared to stray too far from the straight and narrow. It leads to some complications with Smitty in town. Putting him on some people’s **** list because of how he treats Smitty at first. But it definitely doesn’t take him long to get past that 🙂

Thin Ice, like the rest of The Elmwood Stories, is a low angst, slow burn, feel good love story. There’s moments of humor (between Bryson’s dad jokes and Smitty’s ingenuity in getting Bryson’s attention), steam (oh, the steam), and all the emotions (as both come to terms with their pasts and what a relationship together might look like). I loved seeing everyone again and wallowing in all the warm & fuzzies & snark & fun. Looking forward to whatever Hayes has for us next.

*****

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!

Connect with Lane:
My Readers’ Group, Lane’s Lovers: https://bit.ly/3aIbMYg
My Newsletter: https://bit.ly/3cICfaK
Blog: 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/lanehayes3/
Instagram: instagram.com/lanehayesauthor/
Goodreads: goodreads.com/LaneHayes
Tiktok: tiktok.com/@lane_hayes

*****

Giveaway:

To celebrate the release of Thin Ice, Lane is giving away the Winner’s choice of an audiobook or ebook of your choice from her published works!

Enter the Rafflecopter giveaway for your chance to win!

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*****

Review – Beautifully Fractured

20 Monday May 2024

Posted by in Blog Tour, Book Review, Contest, Sneak Peek

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Beautifully Fractured

Front Range University, Book 1

by Michele Lenard

Blurb:

Ever have someone get you so well it’s like looking in a mirror?

Cruz

Starting over is not what I had planned.

Those stories about magically becoming best friends with the person assigned to live with you… Yeah, that won’t be me. I already have a best friend. Even if I wanted a new one, Liam wouldn’t be it. He’s permanently grouchy, carrying a negative energy I don’t need since I’m finally in a good place. But I’ve never been good at ignoring when people need help, so I paste on a smile and play nice.

Predictably, Liam isn’t much of a talker, but after an unexpected accident he needs my help in other ways. Ways that offer me answers about myself. Ways that raise new questions about the football dreams I’ve been chasing since I was a kid. Ways that make me relive the past I want to ignore.

To say I’m confused is an understatement, but there’s one thing I know for certain…Liam is either the key to one door or the bolt that could prevent another from ever opening. And I have to choose which I want him to be.

Liam

Starting over is exactly what I need.

I can’t get any more invisible than I’ve been for the past few years, and I figure rooming with another person means at least one human on the planet can’t ignore me. Unfortunately, that human is Adonis personified, and not gay, so it’s looking like my invisibility streak might continue.

Then I suffer a minor accident, and Cruz’s hero complex comes out in full force.

I should be grateful to have someone to open my door and carry my books, but when you pair his selfless personality with that body… My mind starts to blur the roommate line, which makes his blur the line of not being gay.

My heart is already battered, and I doubt it can take rejection from the one person who broke down all the walls I’d built around it. That doesn’t mean I won’t try to give it to him anyway.

**Beautifully Fractured is a high-heat MM romance with medium angst that features a grumpy/sunshine relationship, forced proximity, hurt/comfort situations and a bi-awakening. This is book one in a series of interconnected standalones. Though the main characters are athletes, this is not a sports romance. Rather, it’s a romance that happens to feature people who play sports.

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Add on Goodreads

*****

Excerpt:

“So, now that we’re friends.” Cruz’s voice halts my internal rambling, and I try not to choke on my own breath as he steps back into our room wearing only a towel that does very little to hide the delicious little ‘V’ I suspected he’d have at the base of his torso. “Got any thoughts about what to do with this room?”

I swallow back the saliva pooling in my mouth as he pulls on a pair of boxers–before letting the towel drop to the floor thank God. “What do you mean?”

His head swivels around, taking in the space. “It’s kind of depressing, don’t you think?”

“It’s a dorm.”

“We might need to work on your vocabulary, Sunshine.” He tugs on a pair of sweats that do nothing to hide how round his ass is. “This place isn’t just a plain dorm room, it resembles a prison cell. Where’s the personalization?”

I force myself to look at his face. “Just because we’ve called a truce doesn’t mean you get to give me a nickname.”

“An ironic nickname.” He smiles proudly, like we’re already on our way to being best buddies, and I can’t decide if that makes me want to roll my eyes or smile back.

He’s just so…eager.

Rolling my eyes wins out, though I take my own tour of the bare white walls, plain tile floor, and worn wood furniture. “What did you have in mind?”

*****

Review:

Lenard’s first book in her newest series is a spicy slow burn. I liked that she brought readers an ace character – the diversity in characters is one of my favorite things in MM romances. Traditional MF romances tend to be … well, traditional and I love that she took the opportunity to explore.

I do struggle a little tho with New Adult age romances, especially first year college students. I’m an old lady 🙂 and recognize how much growing is done, especially through the 20s. But I also realize that there are couples that get together young and last, which can be appealing too. And Cruz & Liam have dealt with a lot so I feel like it helped them bond and matured them a bit more than your average 18/19 year old.

Speaking of them going through a lot, I hurt for these two but through luck of the residence lottery they were matched up with someone who could truly get them. And I love how their pasts made them different, with Cruz being positive & happy-go-lucky but Liam being grumpy & sullen, but it also helped them be the support the other needed.

There’re these delightful moments of humor mixed in with the steam & emotion as Cruz explores his sexuality and both of them start to become more than just friends, sharing some of their hurts. There’s also a delightful mix of side characters so Lenard has given her readers plenty of material for future stories. Looking forward to what comes next (I’m just torn on who I want it to be more).

*****

Author Info:

Hi! I’m Michele-or at least that’s the name I write under-because my parents and my kids are not allowed to read my books. Ever. Though sports romance is my guilty pleasure, I like to dabble in all MM tropes. My books are set in my home state of Colorado, because to me the mountains are the only thing that can compete with a good book. My favorite food is Mexican, my favorite shoes are flip-flops, and my drink of choice is whiskey, the same as virtually every character I’ve ever written.

Connect with Michele:
https://www.facebook.com/michelelenardbooks
https://www.instagram.com/mlenardbooks/
https://mlenardromance.com/newsletter-signup/
https://linktr.ee/mlenard
tiktok: @michelelenardbooks

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Giveaway:

To celebrate the release of Beautifully Fractured, Michele is giving away a paperback copy of the release!

Enter the Rafflecopter giveaway for your chance to win!

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