The Bed Mate is a short and sweet story that perfectly delivered the friends to lovers story even as a novella. It didn't feel rushed or fast-paced, and I felt the chemistry between Sam and Maggie from start to finish.
Sam and Maggie have been best friends since they were in college, and Sam has loved her for just as long. When they both find themselves single—Sam broke up with his girlfriend and Maggie with her long-term cheater of a boyfriend—Sam flies Maggie over from New York to Colorado to join him and his friends for a holiday by the slopes.
Their only problem? The hotel where they're staying is full. Maggie has no choice but to stay with Sam in his hotel room, and she's starting to feel something she's never felt before when she's with him.
The two of them have been there for each other through thick and thin, and now Sam is wondering if this is it; this is finally their time. He doesn't know how she'll feel about more or if this will ruin their friendship, but he knows if he doesn't try now, he might never have the chance again.
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Maybe I had to settle for the fact that, no matter how hard I looked, I would never find anyone that fit with me the way Maggie did. She was just…my person. The puzzle piece that clicked with mine.”
I loved Sam and Maggie's friendship and loved their relationship even more. Their interactions felt so authentic and carefree, I had no doubt they'd be happier together as a couple. The story had some angst but stayed light throughout and with just enough sexual tension to keep the story rolling.
This book is perfect for the holidays, and if you're looking for a quick, fun and sexy read, you'll enjoy The Bed Mate.
Tropes: Friends to Lovers POV: First Person, Dual POV Standalone: Yes
The Bed Mate is a short and sweet story that perfectly delivered the friends to lovers story even as a novella. It didn't feel rushed or fast-paced, and I felt the chemistry between Sam and Maggie from start to finish.
Sam and Maggie have been best friends since they were in college, and Sam has loved her for just as long. When they both find themselves single—Sam broke up with his girlfriend and Maggie with her long-term cheater of a boyfriend—Sam flies Maggie over from New York to Colorado to join him and his friends for a holiday by the slopes.
Their only problem? The hotel where they're staying is full. Maggie has no choice but to stay with Sam in his hotel room, and she's starting to feel something she's never felt before when she's with him.
The two of them have been there for each other through thick and thin, and now Sam is wondering if this is it; this is finally their time. He doesn't know how she'll feel about more or if this will ruin their friendship, but he knows if he doesn't try now, he might never have the chance again.
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Maybe I had to settle for the fact that, no matter how hard I looked, I would never find anyone that fit with me the way Maggie did. She was just…my person. The puzzle piece that clicked with mine.”
I loved Sam and Maggie's friendship and loved their relationship even more. Their interactions felt so authentic and carefree, I had no doubt they'd be happier together as a couple. The story had some angst but stayed light throughout and with just enough sexual tension to keep the story rolling.
This book is perfect for the holidays, and if you're looking for a quick, fun and sexy read, you'll enjoy The Bed Mate.
Tropes: Friends to Lovers POV: First Person, Dual POV Standalone: Yes
The 26th of November by Elizabeth Adams promised hilarity, and it delivered that and so much more! I wanted this book to go on forever, but I doubt Elizabeth Bennet would appreciate it. This Pride and Prejudice meets Groundhog Day is a wonderfully weaved story where we have Elizabeth as the poor victim, and November 26th, the night of the Netherfield ball, as the repeating day. It reminded me a lot of another favorite where Mr. Darcy experienced something similar.
If there’s a date Elizabeth would like to relive, it would not be the night of the Netherfield ball. Her family made a spectacle of themselves, and her encounter with the arrogant Mr. Darcy left a bitter taste in her mouth. She suspected that night convinced the Netherfield party to flee Meryton, breaking her dear sister’s heart.
Much to her bewilderment, she has no choice but to experience that night over and over again, no clue as to how she can break the loop. She thinks the party’s departure was the catalyst to her predicament, so she does everything in her power to make sure they stay.
As she goes through the dreaded day repeatedly and tries to find a way out, she sees things in a different light, the most shocking one Mr. Darcy. It’s not hard to get to know a person when you dance with them again and again.
In my opinion, Ms. Adams perfectly portrayed Elizabeth. Her thoughts and feelings were true to her character and reading this book felt like seeing the scenes through Elizabeth’s eyes. She acted just how I expected she would act when thrust into such a position; she showed her wit, sass, and determined attitude as she went about it. I felt her frustration and defeat, but knew she would prevail. And prevail, she did.
It was a hilarious and sweet way for Elizabeth to get to know Mr. Darcy, and I enjoyed every bit of it! And my dear Mr. Darcy. He never failed to make me smile and swoon in this book. You’d think we wouldn’t see much range of emotions and growth from a character stuck in an endless loop, but trust me on this, you would.
I had a smile on my face the whole time I was reading this book. I sighed wistfully after finishing it and went back to my favorite scenes to enjoy it again. The 26th of November was witty, sweet, and satisfying. I highly recommend this to fans of Pride and Prejudice because this one is a treat!
Love Machine is a great summer read that is perfect for fans of the friends-to-lovers trope! Keaton and Slate were adorable and incredibly hot when they’re together, and I had a lot of fun getting to know them.
Keaton, lover of her grumpy old cat and her career, has an epiphany at her good friend’s bachelorette party—she may be smart, but she knows little to nothing about the art of sex. Who better to teach her than her best friend and most trusted person in the world?
When his best friend tells him about her sexual predicament, Slate is more than intrigued. He’s always cared about his best friend and tries not to think of her that way, but his friend is in need and he knows he can help.
They just have to make sure to keep things purely educational, of course. Keaton and Slate are each other’s person, and they don’t know what they’d do if they lose their friendship. Easy, right?
I had a lot of fun reading this book! It’s easy to get attached to the characters and their friendship-to-more situation. Keaton and Slate are both likable characters, and their genuine affection and emotional connection they have even when they were just friends was a delight to witness. I love reading about characters who have that strong trust and rapport between them because you just know they really do care for each other. I saw that in Keaton and Slate. Plus, there’s that whole opposites attract thing going between them that I adore!
Also, I would just like to say I absolutely love it when heroes are honest about their feelings and are not afraid to say it. Slate made me swoon so much because gah. He is the sweetest! He’s funny, thoughtful, and let me tell you, the man definitely knows what he’s doing.
Love Machine is a quick and fun read guaranteed to make you laugh, swoon, and blush. The pace was just right, the chemistry between these two likable characters sizzling, and the progression of their friendship to more was definitely swoon-worthy.
The Billionaire’s Wake-up-call Girl is taking dirty talk to a whole new level. You want a grumpy hero with a wicked mouth on him, and a fantastic heroine you’ll love and admire? You can have that with this book.
It’s hot, funny, and hard to put down! This is my second read from Ms. Martin, and I have to say she’s becoming my favorite. I love the humor, the tone, the pace, and the characters! There’s a hint of angst that tugs at your heartstrings, just enough to make things juicier.
We have Lizzie Cooper, a 27-year-old woman working hard into cleaning up the mess her controlling and swindling ex left her to handle. She also wants to get back on her feet soon and reopen her old bakery. With the promise of a generous sign-in bonus if you last thirty days at the job, she gets into the gig of working on the social media presence of an otherwise old-school pharmaceuticals company. She needs that sign-in bonus, and she’ll do everything to stay on the job, even wake up at 4:30 AM to wake up the CEO.
Theo Drummond has no time for frivolities. He just needs to work on his project, therefore helping others, and that’s how he wants the company to work. With the new girl distracting him, he’s not the best person to wake up in the morning, and now, all of the wake-up-call agencies have given up on him. But this new wake-up-call girl his employee got for him on Craigslist, the sassy mouth with the husky voice, is certainly doing things to him. He needs to meet her, but seems like sassy mouth doesn’t.
They both have plans, and this, whatever this is, isn’t a part of it. Lizzie plans to move back to her parents’ to regroup and save up before starting up her bakery, and Theo needs to figure out the problem he’s been trying hard to solve. So, how will their burgeoning feelings for each other fall into the equation?
The chemistry is on point, constantly building up as Lizzie and Theo started their interactions to when Theo started insisting on meeting her, to finally coming face-to-face. Lizzie is an admirable character with a lot of sass and fire. Theo is mysterious, a little surly and a bit of an a-hole at first, but he’s a teddy bear. I love him. Plus, that mouth on him!
I had a lot of fun reading The Billionaire’s Wake-up-call Girl. If you’re looking for a funny and steamy office romance, you might like it too!
Tropes: Boss-Employee, Hate to Love, Office Romance, Phone Pals POV:First Person, Dual POV Standalone: Yes
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There's no awkwardness, or hesitation. We've been here before. Our lips, our hands, and our hearts remember."
Like Garrett and Callie, my reunion with Getting Schooled by Emma Chase was sweeter the second time around. I listened to the audiobook a few months ago and loved it, so it’s not really a surprise that I loved the book just as much. It’s smart, witty, addictive, and full of wonderful characters, humor, emotion, and depth.
An incident brings Callie Carpenter back to her hometown, and back to her high school sweetheart’s path. While in town, she takes a temporary job at her old high school where Garrett Daniels, golden boy and former star athlete of their school, is now the football coach of the team. They finally get their second chance more than a decade later at the very same place where it all began.
It was such a joy to read this book! Second chance romances, when done right, make my heart go a-flutter. This one definitely did. I liked that the angst wasn’t too heavy (don’t get me wrong, it had its moments) and I love love loved the maturity between Callie and Garrett. They know what they want, how they feel, and they’re not afraid to talk about it. No unnecessary drama here, thank you very much. As amicable a break up can be, there can be lingering hurts waiting to surface, and honestly, that’s what I enjoy the most in stories like this.
These two are perfect for each other, and I believed every second of reading this that they were meant to be. It was in the way they interacted with each other—like a decade of being apart didn’t pass at all—looked at each other, and leaned on each other. Cue lovesick sighing.
This story does not just highlight the beauty of second chances, but the colorful life of being a teacher, mentor, and guardian as well. It was interesting to see their train of thought, the efforts they did to reach their students, their frustrations and hurt, and the joy of seeing their students grow and learn. It added so much to the story without stealing the spotlight from the romance.
I can’t recommend this story enough! Getting Schooled has characters you’ll fall in love with, great chemistry and banter, equal shares of sweet, funny, steamy and tear-jerking moments, and a romance that will warm your heart.
Tropes: Second Chance, Small Town POV:First Person, Dual POV Standalone: Yes
Wow. What an experience! The Sweetest Oblivion was my first foray into the world of mafia romance, and I think I made the right choice in choosing it as the book to ease my way in. It was dark but not overwhelming for a beginner like me, it was sexy, action-packed, and man oh man, Nicolas Russo? Yes, please.
Elena Abelli, known in the Cosa Nostra as Sweet Abelli, sees her life in a new perspective after a life-changing moment. She has to keep up the sweet and demure image to survive in the New York mafia, especially as a member of one of the most-esteemed families.
Now Elena has to keep her head low to avoid more trouble, but it might be harder than she thought when her father announces her youngest sister’s betrothal to Nicolas Russo, a Made Man. She’s heard so much about Nicolas, and his reputation puts the other members of the mafia to shame.
Unfortunately for her, she’s caught the attention of Nicolas, and now she can’t make it stop. She’s not even sure she wants to.
I have to admit it took me a while to get into the story, but as soon as things picked up, I was fully invested. There’s an element of forbidden romance here obviously, since Nicolas was originally betrothed to Elena’s sister, but instead of feeling put off by that fact, I was giddy with anticipation of what’s to come. The chemistry between Nicolas and Elena is sizzling, and no one can doubt their connection. Seriously, my heart was beating so fast throughout the story because the sexual tension was intense!
Don’t let Elena’s sweet demeanor fool you. She knows how to navigate her way in the upper echelons of the New York mafia, and let me tell you, it isn’t for the weak-hearted. I like the balance of innocence and strength she showed. She thinks before she leaps (except that one time, although I understand why she did it and don’t hate her for it), knows when to push or relent, and is not afraid to fight for what she wants. It’s hard to keep sight of the light when you’re surrounded by violence and death, but Elena managed that, and it is to her credit that she did.
And Nicolas. Where do I start? Full disclosure—I wasn’t into the dark, dominant men, especially those with an element of danger. I liked my fictional men brooding, yes, but law-abiders. Haha! Now I’m slowly getting addicted to the this kind of hero. Nicolas is intense, dangerous, gorgeous, and has a wicked mouth on him. Seriously. I’m fanning myself just thinking about it. But he is also loyal to the core, fierce in protecting those under his care, and . I can’t get enough!
It was also amazing to read about the Cosa Nostra, how things might be in their society. I shouldn’t really be surprised at my fascination; I had a The Godfather-esque theme for my debut (coming-of-age ball; kind of like a quinceañera but celebrated on the 18th birthday).
You want action, suspense, sweet and funny moments, and some dirty talk that will make you swoon? I highly suggest The Sweetest Oblivion. I can’t wait to meet the rest of Danielle Lori’s Made Men. CAN’T WAIT.
Tropes: Forbidden Romance, Hate to Love, Marriage of Convenience, Mafia POV:First Person, Dual POV Standalone: Yes
Hot single dad? Check. A fabulous woman who knows what she wants and gets it? Check. Fun and sexy interactions guaranteed to make your day? Check. Mister Tonight is a guaranteed summer read to keep you company.
Being homeless isn’t what gossip columnist Kate expects to be as she approaches her 30th birthday. It’s only temporary, and she found a new place to stay anyway, but it sucks just the same. That’s why she’s welcoming the big three-oh with another big O, and she needs a man for that.
When she spots a handsome man who could be her Mister Tonight, it’s just her luck that the man is looking for the same thing, too. Hunter takes her home and to his bed, but forgets one important thing in a household with his curious four-year-old—lock the door when engaging in adult cuddle time. Said adult cuddle time goes to an abrupt end when Hunter’s daughter walks in and sees them on the act. Kate flees, hoping to never have to relive the moment that interrupted their mind-blowing sex again.
Luck must not be on their side—or it is, depending on how you look at it—because Kate and Hunter cross paths again, this time as tenant and landlord. Now that Kate is living above the garage next to Hunter’s house, how can she stop Mister Tonight from turning into Mister Forever?
Kate and Hunter made me giggle and grin. These two have had one heck of a first night. Definitely unforgettable! It’s not every day these two go out to look for a one night stand, and on the very night they finally let loose and they’re having the time of their lives, it’s interrupted with Hunter’s innocent child. There’s no going back after that… not unless the man is actually her new landlord. It’s hard to stay away from a man you have insane chemistry with, and it’s even harder to stay away from a man who’s not only an amazing father but an amazing human being in general.
It’s a breath of fresh air to see the child not immediately warm up to their parent’s love interest. If I were in Maddie’s shoes, I’d be suspicious of the lady doing god knows what to daddy, too. Maddie felt very much like a four-year-old—hyper, adorable, easily distracted, and has her not-so angelic moments.
I have to admit I would have given it a higher rating if not for the reason behind Kate’s aversion to relationships. For me, it felt weak and not even directly related to her that it shouldn’t have affected her that way. I would have enjoyed the story more if that certain part wasn’t there. Other than that, I’m completely satisfied.
If you’re looking for a fun, low-angst romance between a hot single dad and a strong, independent and curvy woman (reprezent!!!), you’ll enjoy Mister Tonight.
Tropes: Friends with Benefits, Landlord/Tenant, Single Parent—Father POV:First Person, Dual POV Standalone: Yes
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All the things that make you different make you perfect.”
I am in love. The Kiss Quotient is a beautiful and realistic debut novel that breaks stereotypes, embraces uniqueness, and makes one think about their self-worth. It’s the kind of book that will make you smile, swoon, tear up, and think. I was on cloud nine when I finished it. It’s been a few days since I finished reading this book, and I’m still on a high! I haven’t read anything since. It took me so long to articulate my thoughts, and I still don’t think I gave this book justice, but let me try.
Stella Lane may be a well-paid and successful econometrician, but for her mother, nothing would be better than for Stella to finally give her parents some grand-babies. Babies mean intimacy and sex, two things Stella isn’t particularly well-versed. If she’s going to take her mother’s request seriously, she’s going to need to learn the ins and outs of sex. No pun intended.
Who better to teach her than Michael? The beautiful man who can give Daniel Henney a run for his money definitely knows sex; he gets paid to seduce women and pleasure them. So she hires him to teach her. What Stella doesn’t consider is that maybe she’s looking at it the wrong way. Maybe it isn’t just sex she needs to learn, but relationships itself.
Michael only sticks to doing his night job on Fridays, and never with the same client more than once. Stella’s request breaks so much of his personal rules, but he can’t help but say yes. The effect he felt the short time he spent with Stella was unlike anything he’s ever felt before. But those feelings need to get out of the way because he can’t have her. Stella is smart, rich, and beautiful, and she deserves so much more. Not a man with a past he continues to escape.
As they go on with Love and Relationship 101, Stella and Michael learn so much more than what’s in their lesson plan. They learn about each other, and they both like it very much. Now, they just have to decide whether to pursue the real deal or not.
This book is heartwarming, sweet, and angstier and steamier than I expected. And I’m not mad about it at all. This book made me tear up more than once because of Stella and Michael and how perfect they are for each other. To see two people so in sync and see how much they’re helping each other is heartwarming. It isn’t one-sided. Michael needs Stella as much as she needs him.
I love Stella and Michael so much. Words aren’t enough to express my feelings about them. Stella is strong, endearing, and so precious. She’s a genuinely nice person, thoughtful and nurturing to others. As a person on the autism spectrum, she has issues with social interactions that can sometimes give the wrong impression to others; worse case scenario, it hurts or offends them. It’s not something she does on purpose, and she tries her best to be aware of her words and actions to keep it from happening again. My heart went out for her that she had to hide her condition, afraid that people might see and treat her differently.
Sweet Michael. He’s everything I want and more. This man is hard-working, loyal to the core, sweet, and oh my Lord is he hot. This man will make your heart and panties fall, you guys. Such a cinnamon roll. And the tongue on this one. I am fanning myself right now!
And I just have to say I love his family. It was such a delight to see the Vietnamese side of his family, their interaction with each other so genuine and fantastic. I’m looking forward to getting to know Khai in The Bride Test!
With an engaging writing, amazing chemistry, and relatable characters you’ll fall in love with, The Kiss Quotient is a book you need to read. A perfect summer read. A perfect read for any time of the year, really. It’s definitely one of the highlights of my year! The Kiss Quotient is something I will never forget and will forever cherish in my heart. You need to read this book. I promise you won’t regret meeting Stella and Michael.
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First impressions, though I once believed them so vehemently, cannot be relied upon. It is the most important lesson I have learnt.”
The Events at Branxbourne is an angst-filled, wonderfully-weaved Pride and Prejudice variation that will make your heart race, break, and heal again. With a beginning that promises an eventful journey, to say the least, and a middle that captures your complete attention, this is a book that will keep you invested until the very end.
There is no do-over after Hunsford; no second proposal for Mr. Darcy and Elizabeth in this variation. We see them three years later, in the year 1817, with Elizabeth married to a viscount, and Mr. Darcy still unmarried and has a recently widowed Colonel Fitzwilliam and his son under his roof. But all is not well in the Lambert household, and Mr. Darcy is still very much drawn to Elizabeth, especially now that she seems to be just as drawn to him.
No matter how strong their feelings are for each other, they both know nothing can come out of it, not with Elizabeth still married to the viscount. Mr. Darcy must consider settling down, and Cecilia Talbot, Elizabeth’s good friend, seems like the sensible choice.
They know they shouldn’t see each other again, but they can’t resist. With each meeting, the risk of getting caught gets higher yet the possibility of finding happiness stays the same. Can they find happiness when everything seems to go against them?
This is not your typical variation, the story going on a darker and more gothic route than the original. There is the mystery of what happened in the beginning, the abusive relationship between Elizabeth and Lord Lambert, and the forbidden romance between our beloved couple. Events after events made it seem like they would never have their happily ever after, but there’s a lingering feeling of hope there that there’s a light at the end of the tunnel.
My heart raced at the fear of them getting caught, my hands started getting clammy with worry and anxiety, and my mind raced at the thought of which characters to trust. Ms. Williams created such an original story, a well-plotted book with the perfect pace and more than enough tension to keep a reader invested.
It always blows my mind how she can create a story like this from Pride and Prejudice. I loved that our main characters’ cores are very much the same. Elizabeth, although more subdued caused by the abuse she has suffered in her marriage, is still a strong, wonderful heroine, and Mr. Darcy just as dedicated and loyal to the people most important to him.
I loved reading every word in this book, and I have a feeling Pride and Prejudice variation readers will, too. I have to warn that there are hints of abuse, but nothing too graphic for it to be too painful to read.
Tropes: Historical—Regency Era POV: First Person, Dual POV Standalone: Yes
Thirty Day Boyfriend was a cute, entertaining, and sexy read that made me laugh and feel giddy. The story had great banter, well-written sex scenes, and two lovable characters wrapped up in one of my favorite tropes.
Emily Johnson has been the right-hand woman of Nicholas A. Wolf, the actual Wolf of Wolf Street, for two years, and she wants out. With an iron-clad four-year contract, she can't exactly leave, but that hasn't stopped her from trying. Unfortunately for her, Nicholas is always a step ahead, thwarting all of her attempts of leaving. Out of nowhere, her boss offers to set her free, but on a condition she's not sure she's willing to take.
Nicholas needs to deal to push through, but it looks like the only way it can happen is if he changes his image. He needs to be a committed family man, and this is where Emily comes in. If she can play his fiancée for thirty days and he gets the deal, they can part ways satisfied that they got what they want. It should be fine, right?
The chemistry and sexual tension are palpable from start to finish, but what I love the most about Thirty Day Boyfriend is that it was shown not just through lust, but through their fantastic banter and basically all interactions. I’m 100% convinced they’re perfect for each other, and everything they did made me giggle and swoon.
As I've said in my book review, the book would have been perfect if it were longer. I fell completely in love with Nicholas and Emily, their banter and relationship.
WHAT DID YOU LIKE ABOUT THE AUDIOBOOK?
This is the shortest audiobook I've listened to, so I got to listen to it in one sitting. Zachary Webber and Erin Mallon were fantastic in narrating Nicholas' and Emily's perspectives, Mr. Webber especially. Thanks to them, there wasn't a single second listening to this audiobook that I wasn't pleasantly diverted. Thirty Day Boyfriend is my favorite Whitney G. novella, so listening to it was just as enjoyable as reading it the first time.
WOULD YOU RECOMMEND THIS AUDIOBOOK TO A FRIEND? IF SO, WHY?
Anyone who enjoys the fake relationship trope mixed in with a hate-to-love element will love Thirty Day Boyfriend. Plus, if you're looking for a quick and fun dual narration audiobook listen, I highly recommend it. Mr. Webber and Ms. Mallon are both veritable romance narrators, so you're in good hands.
If you want to dip your toes in the audiobook world, this would be a great start since it's light and entertaining and shorter than other audiobooks.
Tropes: Fake Relationship, Boss-Employee, Hate to Love, Office Romance POV: First Person, Dual POV Narration: Dual Narration Standalone: Yes
*Audiobook received in exchange for an honest review.
I AM SO READY FOR AMERICAN GODS! I don't think R. Scarlett had anything to worry about transitioning from PNR to Contemporary because my god, this novella is a fantastic start to a new sexy series. Filthy Gods promised filthy and will give filthy.
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He was a mere man, I knew that, but he and his friends were treated like gods. It didn't help they looked it, too. Intimidating, perfect and deadly."
Unlike most of her classmates at Yale who were born with silver spoons in their mouths, Juliette Monroe has to work twice as hard to keep up her grades and afford to go to school. That means it's work for her while they party after school and go on vacations during breaks. She strives to stay on top of the class for a better chance of going to Yale Law but is always bested by Nathaniel Radcliffe, the epitome of rich and privileged.
She's so close to the finish line but things get complicated when her enemy discovers the secret she's been hiding for the last three years. Nathaniel has the upper hand and knowing him, he's not afraid to use it. He offers to keep her secret for a price. What Juliette doesn't know is she's going to enjoy every bit of it.
I say this a lot: I'm not usually a fan of alpha males in books. But R. Scarlett is one of the authors who writes alpha heroes I just can't resist. Nathaniel Radcliffe is every bit the alpha with his commanding personality, filthy mouth, and hot as sin body. He is assertive but is patient in getting what he wants. Loyal and protective of the people who mean the most to him. If you hear someone swooning, that's me.
I admire Juliette and her hard work and resilience. She doesn't let these people intimidate her and let anything get in the way of her dreams and goals. Despite their social status, Juliette and Nathaniel are equals. They're both smart go-getters, so it's not a surprise that they're (secretly) attracted to one another.
The length of the story is perfect for Nathaniel and Juliette, showing the positive crackling connection that's been brewing between them since they met. And boy is it explosive. I swear my heart was beating so fast the whole time I was reading this because the sexual tension between them is that intense.
You're in for a treat with this steamy enemies-to-lovers romance between two of the smartest students at Yale.
Oh and Rebecca, may we please please please have the rest of the American Gods now?
Tropes: College, Enemies to Lovers, Forbidden Romance, Rich/Poor POV: First Person, Female POV Standalone: Yes
What to expect from the Ruthless Gentleman: off-the-charts sexual tension between a hot, trailblazing, British alpha in a tailor-fit suit and a loyal and hard-working chief stewardess who will do everything for her loved ones, set in a superyacht in the Mediterranean, with intrigue, suspense, revenge in a sizzling forbidden romance that will keep you on your toes.
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I haven't thought about what happens when I leave this boat," I said. "But I know that I can't ever imagine not wanting you in my life."
Luxury superyacht chief stewardess Avery Walker is ready to fly back home after the season to spend time with her family, but when the captain asks her to join a last-minute, two-month cruise in the Mediterranian for a mystery client, she ends up going. Her family could use the money for her brother's health bills, and this cruise promises a lot.
CEO Hayden Wolf needs this business deal to push through because he might lose his company if he doesn't. With a potential mole sniffing around and feeding information to his rival company, he has to be as discreet as possible and keep this venture from the public; so he goes off the grid and books a yacht in the Mediterranian for two months. As good as that sounds, this is no pleasure trip. He still needs to work his butt off to get the company he's trying to acquire while waiting for his brother to sniff out the rat.
Even though the staff passed the extensive background check done by his brother, Hayden can't take chances. No one can use their laptops and phones to contact people while they're off the shore, and most importantly, no one but the chief stewardess is allowed in his private chambers.
Avery and Hayden feel that undeniable connection between them as they spend more time together but respect each other enough to not take the leap. There is a strict policy for staff not to engage in affairs with their clients. Even if Avery is easy to talk to, and Hayden isn't the stoic, shady man he appeared to be, they can't do it. Right?
Avery can't afford to lose her job and Hayden can't afford to lose his focus on the deal, so is what they have worth risking it all?
I'm not usually a fan of alpha men in contemporary books, but Louise Bay's alpha is my kind of alpha. Men in suits who take charge in the boardroom and bedroom, who do not usurp the power of their partner. True leaders who will defend and fiercely protect everyone under his care. Hayden Wolf is all of that and more. He worked hard to be where he is and is vigilant in finding the leak so he can protect and save his company. He goes for what he wants and won't stop until he gets them.
admire Avery's efforts in helping her family, sacrificing her own happiness and dreams for her brother. She is loyal, understanding, and incredibly smart. Like Hayden, she's a born leader.
I love the build-up of the tension between Avery and Hayden, the push and pull of the chemistry, and the moment when they finally gave in. There's a little bit of slow burn at the start, that part where they feel the connection so strongly but are unsure if it's anything more than attraction.
The Ruthless Gentleman is an enjoyable read filled with heat, mystery, lies, second chances, and love. From the incredibly steamy scenes on the boat to the day-out at picturesque Taormina, you'll wish you were on that cruise with them.
Someone take me to Taormina now. Please.
Tropes: Forbidden Romance—Client/Employee, Billionaire, CEO POV: First Person, Dual POV Standalone: Yes
What to expect from Jock Row: Friends to lovers romance between two lovable characters, great build up, sizzling sexual tension, plus little to no angst.
After a night out with her friends at a party in Jock Row—the Greek Row equivalent of the street for athletes' housing—Scarlett Ripley has gained a reputation as a 'Jock Block,' a 'cock block' for athletes. It wasn't her fault the guys who were coming unto her friends had terrible game. She just couldn't help it! Because of her reputation, she's barred from entering the parties, and "Rowdy" Wade, captain of the baseball team, is the one in charge of keeping her out.
Despite knowing she can't get inside Baseball house, Scarlett keeps coming back week after week. That first Friday, she had so much fun talking to Rowdy even though she got kicked out, and she has a feeling it will be just as fun if she comes back. It seems the feeling is mutual because Rowdy is always outside, waiting for her.
Rowdy is intrigued by Ripley. She's obviously not a party girl, what with her tote bag and layers and layers of clothes ready for the winter, but she goes to take care of her wayward friends. She's funny, unguarded, and will tell it like it is. He's looking forward to Fridays now because then they can play Have You Ever and eat whatever's in her bag.
It's become a routine for them to sit outside every Friday, play games and eat takeout. Ripley's incredibly hot guard has become her friend, and with the way things are going, maybe even more.
Rowdy and Scarlett are so freaking adorable! I smiled, giggled, and swooned the whole time because these two are just too much. They were sweet and cute without being cringe-y and corny. This book is very character-driven and mostly focused on the growing relationship between Rowdy and Scarlett, and you know what, I'm absolutely okay with that.
Since the focus was primarily on their relationship, it was well-paced, and the slow-burn was fantastic. I'm a sucker for some slow-burn, and Sara Ney nailed it. It was perfect for Rowdy and Scarlett because these two pure children of mine started out as reluctant friends to close confidants secretly lusting over each other. The friendship had to grow first for the feelings to go deep, and they got that.
My boy Rowdy was just too sweet. Ugh, he's thoughtful, affectionate, and smart. I just can't handle the overflowing feels whenever he's affectionate with Scarlett. I want to wrap him up and keep him for myself. There was this scene that I won't specify because spoiler, but I fell in love with him there with how earnest and amazing his relationship is with his parents.
And I just have to say, I agree with Rowdy when he said Scarlett's friends are t r a s h. You don't leave your friend, who is sick by the way, out on their own just so you could chase after men. Nope. I'm glad I didn't see much of her "friends" after that.
I can't wait to read more Jock Hard books. Is it Ben? Derek? Or someone else?
You want a sweet, adorable, slow-burn college romance? Then you will love Jock Row by Sara Ney. Seriously. I was smiling the whole time when I was reading this book.
Tropes: College, Friends to Lovers, Sports—Baseball POV: First Person, Dual POV Standalone: Yes
OH MY GOD. That's all I can say. Will that work as a review because I am totally speechless??? I had no idea what to expect next when I first started Fox, but I can only say Cold was nothing I could have ever imagined.
Officer Levi Fox and Hollywood star Ivy Stone have a love story that seems to be bound to end in heartache, but when one is determined to make it work, maybe it can actually work.
Max Monroe are experts in hooking their readers to a story with twists and turns that will make your heart flutter and mind blown. Will they or won't they? Or the right question maybe should be, 'Should they?'. Are they in danger or are they safe? There are so many questions in my head all throughout the story.
I can't divulge much without spoiling the first book and Cold, but all I can say is expect to go on an emotional rollercoaster ride. You'll feel anger, frustration, love, confusion, fear, and anticipation for what's coming next. This book was wonderfully written, and althought it’s very different from the Max Monroe I've known and loved, I am 100% obsessed.
I'm sooo ready for you, Fox!
Tropes: Celebrities—Actress, Hate to Love, Small Town POV: First Person, Dual POV Standalone: No
Nissa | Of Pens and Pages Book Blog
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