This starts off with Win and Bo having a phenomenal one night stand. However, in4.5 Warm Fuzzies Stars!
I pretty much loved everything about this book.
This starts off with Win and Bo having a phenomenal one night stand. However, in order to protect their fragile hearts they both convey they’re not looking for anything more, and they amicably part ways. Luckily, fate has another plan for them as an accidental pregnancy occurs, and they’re “forced” back into each other’s lives.
What ensues is a wonderful discovery of how perfect a couple they truly are. Each has their own personal disability (small hand for Win and missing limb for Bo) and their own angsty past full of loneliness and abandonment, but instead of focusing on their deficiencies, they truly bolster the other up. Win is strong and pragmatic but vulnerable as well, stuck in a rut that she can’t seem to climb out of. She gains confidence and feels treasured by Bo’s unwavering support, something that she hasn’t ever had in a partner before. In turn, Bo is the kindest, most generous, protective person ever. He’s sexy nerdy, with his own insecurities that make his struggle strongly felt.
Bonam Young succeeds more than other authors by giving Win and Bo authentic hangups (she has the same disability as Win) with just enough quirkiness to make them stand out, their individual voices and personalities playing off each other like a perfect duet. I was constantly smiling and laughing throughout this book despite the oh so tender hurt comfort (tears may have been shed) about the weighty topics of mortality and physical challenges, and it was a delight seeing these two move from their one night stand to friends to family to lovers.
This book literally has it all - banter, fabulous friends, found family, and silly fun to offset the pain. If you want a poignant, natural progression of love, interspersed with hilarious humor, and feel good feels PLUS some spice, then come on over and discover this gem for yourself!...more
Ok. I can see how divisive this book is to readers, and I totally agree.
There are so many red flags in this, both big and small, far and wid3.5 Stars
Ok. I can see how divisive this book is to readers, and I totally agree.
There are so many red flags in this, both big and small, far and wide, and mainly centering on the FMC Kristen. She is a piece of work in the best and worst ways which is a testament to Jimenez’s writing that allows this reader to overlook a lot. Believe you me, there is a laundry list of things to side eye and cringe at and be disappointed in, and the multitude of other reviews will fill you in on all the specific details.
Having said that, and despite my desire to slap Kristen a bazillion times, Jimenez truly delivers on the fun banter, the delicious UST, and the absolute wonderful heartthrob that is Josh.
Again, just know that this book has all sorts of potential triggers so beware and don’t be fooled by that innocuous cute cover. This is an emotional train wreck. Granted, the writing is top notch excellence that spurred me to read this in 24 hours, but still, a complete and utter emotional train wreck....more
This installment focuses on eldest Bergman brother Axel, whose neurodivergence manifests as a stoic grumpy facade, hiding a man who can’t read social cues well and prefers quiet solitude so he can concentrate on his art. When his childhood home (now a shared vacation spot for all members) becomes an unforeseen money pit, he shoulders the responsibility solely and silently as this is the only way he thinks he can show his love for his family. Thing is, his creative self is blocked at the moment and he’s unable to produce his usual paintings for revenue as his mind’s been scrambled by a recent kiss from family friend Rooney. If only Axel could find someone to platonically marry in order to receive his late uncle’s inheritance which is contingent on this small condition.
Enter the aforementioned Rooney. Invited by BFF Willa to stay at the Bergman home to rest and recuperate from a recent flare in her chronic illness, what she doesn't expect to find is the place under construction and having to stay with Axel instead. When Rooney readily agrees to the farce to show her thanks, she doesn’t think for one moment anything will come of it despite her longtime crush on Axel.
For me, Liese always does an excellent job at the palpable attraction, and she totally pulled out all the stops here. The desire is intense, the unintentional banter is funny and touching, and these two try to resist but fall quickly. It will come as no surprise that I adored Axel. He is gruff, reticent, but also awkward and easily embarrassed. He feels so much but can’t either process it or express it and of course, he’s yummily written. He’s a gentle, glasses wearing giant, gorgeous, smartly soulful, well endowed (like all the MMC’s in Liese’s fictional world), and naturally good in bed. Liese would not have it any other way, and I suspect the readers wouldn’t either.
What differs here from most of the other books in this series is that I had consistent fun with this. The comedic situations these two find themselves in made me grin like a fool or burst out in a giggle, but never fear that Liese skirts around tough topics or icky situations. It absolutely doesn’t hurt at all that Rooney was a solid heroine, and that’s quite a rare thing for me to encounter. Though there is a 3rd act breakup, it was understandable on both parts and was necessary to make these two realize very important things about themselves and each other.
If marriage of convenience, grumpy sunshine, forced proximity, slow burn, comedy of errors, family and friend shenanigans, and an adorable dog and scrappy kitten can’t lure you to read this then I don’t know what else you could want. This was a near perfect mix of romance, plausible personal hangups, mature relationship progression, and humor. Highly recommended especially if you stalled on this series. Go forth and enjoy!
A fabulous sequel to the equally fabulous The Soulmate Equation where best friend Fizzy gets her chance at love and happiness!
No filAnother 4.5 Stars!
A fabulous sequel to the equally fabulous The Soulmate Equation where best friend Fizzy gets her chance at love and happiness!
No filter, care free, infamous romance writer Fizzy has sadly lost her mojo. It’s been a long arduous year where she hasn’t even felt a twinge of lust in her nethers, and she feels like a liar to her audience because she has never experienced the love she advertises in her books. Fizzy is currently uninspired by life, far behind on her next book deadline, and has pretty much given up on a HEA ever happening for her.
Enter hot single dad Connor who is forced to put away his documentary producing self and must create a reality show that his boss is adamant will earn the company big money. Typically, he’d readily say no to such, but if Connor wants to avoid a long commute to see his daughter regularly, he has no choice but to comply. When he comes up with the brilliant idea to feature Fizzy as the next up and coming bachelorette using DNA based technology (developed by yummy MC River from The Soulmate Equation) it’s guaranteed to work for a successful outcome. Connor really has no idea what’s in store for him especially as weeks of preproduction bring him and Fizzy closer and closer together.
This was so much fun and a bit more smexy than its predecessor! Fizzy is like a breath of fresh air, a heroine with no boundaries, and a zeal for life that was infectious. She’s everyone’s idea of a good time, and I loved and rooted for her throughout the entire book which for me, never happens in regards to the FMC.
Look. CLo is known for their dreamy heroes, and Connor was no different. He comes complete with a British accent, wonderful dad vibes, gorgeous 6’5” stature, and is a guy who wants to do right by the woman he’s falling for. Fizzy is the perfect foil against Connor’s more reserved nature who takes Fizzy’s outlandish happenstances in easy going stride.
This also excels in portraying the entertaining dating show that must go on despite our protagonists not wanting to find Fizzy her soulmate! However, never fear dear reader! This was that rare MF romance that never made me cringe once as it consistently delivered on the laughs, the feels, and the swoon! This duology was a wonderful win and comes highly recommended!
Really, the blurb truly says all you need to know.
Single mom Jess is practical, smart, and absolutely blindsided when she’s told she has a 4.5 Stars!
Really, the blurb truly says all you need to know.
Single mom Jess is practical, smart, and absolutely blindsided when she’s told she has a 98% DNA level compatibility with the grouchy, but sexy, Mr. Uncongeniality whom she sees everyday at her local coffee shop. When money is offered for her to just try getting to know the founder and near perfect match (on paper), she’s pretty sure that the science has to be lying when it comes to Dr. River Pena.
This was a win because Jess was wholly likable. Sure, she has some legit fears and reservations but mostly approaches her situation with some mild dreaded hope because wouldn’t it be nice to find that one person who absolutely complements your entire being? Who wouldn’t want to take a chance on that? And believe you me, though there were some legitimate doubts, River is a catch. He’s like a nerdy Clark Kent, an obvious genius as he’s the brains behind this newfangled technology, but he’s also thoughtful, attentive, vulnerable, and uses his words and other things to great effect. Did I mention he’s 6’4”, dark, and extremely fantastic looking?? *dreamy sigh*
Readers beware that there is a 3rd act break up. However, it wasn’t protracted and didn’t follow the usual modus operandi we’ve all read a million times over. The supporting cast was fabulous (especially when it came to bestie Fizz), there was great humor and emotion, and I barely flinched when it came to Jess’s minimal neuroses which is why this garnered so many points. My only complaints which prevented this from being 5 stars were the lack of River’s POV (except for a truly wonderful epilogue) and the very low spice levels, because I know these two authors CAN bring it if they want to.
Overall, a wonderful romance with quasi enemy to lovers with a touch of fake dating trope that had banter, humor, and swoon! A rare MF win!
4 Stars for now, but I reserve the right to add a half star
No one is more surprised than me that this was that good.
I’ve never read Hazelwood before 4 Stars for now, but I reserve the right to add a half star
No one is more surprised than me that this was that good.
I’ve never read Hazelwood before but knew from a very trusted friend that her FMC’s just might rub me the wrong way, so I had very low expectations and had plenty to be trepidatious about. Well, apparently my worries were for nothing!
Know that this is an alternate universe where vampires, werewolves, and humans live divided, hating and fearing the other on very old grudges that have proven deadly to many of them. The only thing holding the tenuous peace is a carefully brokered arrangement where each side gives up a very important member to those in power to make sure everyone remains on their best behavior.
Misery has always been forced to put her fellow vampire brethren first through really no choice of her own, and when her father demands she do it again for the werewolves, the only thing making her say yes, is to find the one missing person that truly matters in her life. What Misery doesn’t know is that she is more valuable to alpha werewolf Lowe than she ever imagined.
This could’ve devolved into a frustrating mess of epic proportions. However, Hazelwood allowed her protagonists to gradually reveal their mysterious selves to each other on a fragile thread of trust, banishing preconceived notions, and commencing with a delicious wonderful slow burn that was spot on. Granted, there is some blatant obliviousness on Misery’s part but when she finally gets it, she gets it. Also, Misery thankfully speaks her mind, often her wry remarks entertainingly funny, and she’s a good person too, reluctantly caring about others even though doing so could very well be a detriment to her own safety.
I would be remiss if I didn’t mention Lowe. He is the epitome of alpha control and powerful dominance, and his thoughts and proclamations about Misery slayed me. He’s a sexy beast, and the spice level was surprisingly nicely explicit, capitalizing on that claiming mate bond goodness and all it encompasses.
Overall, Hazelwood has put a new spin on the paranormal lore we’re all familiar with. She also delivers on Misery and Lowe, showing how well they match despite being inherently different beings. I can only hope we get more of these characters in the future, especially with an ending that promises more!...more
I’ll be honest. Even though I’ve read more MF this year than I have in ages, it’s rare to find that perfect mix of heady he3.5 Stars
An overall MF win!
I’ll be honest. Even though I’ve read more MF this year than I have in ages, it’s rare to find that perfect mix of heady hero and no frills heroine. The last thing I want is to spend several hours in the headspace of another neurotic woman who’s too afraid of a relationship because she’s got a deep rooted fear of abandonment (no matter how reasonable and understandable), but often, that is a common theme in many of these sorts of stories, and this was no different.
So, this starts with Stella with the aforementioned issue and in an effort to save her failing farm, she lies on her application for a monetary contest that she and her bestie fell in love and bought the place together. Her reasoning is that the social media guru running this contest always seems to favor a romantic angle, hence the “lie”. When Stella propositions Luka with clear adamant reassurance that this won’t ruin their friendship, he says yes to a week of subterfuge where they’re free to indulge in each other with no awkwardness or restrictions.
Unsurprisingly, as most MF stories go, Luka is a dreamy dreamboat. He’s perfect - caring, kind, intuitive, handsome, and oh so sexy. Stella is your classic internally rambly character that is trying to hide her feelings so things can continue like they always have so she can feel safe in the sure and steady. These two have been pining for each other for ten years. Yes. Ten years.
Of course, Stella freaks, but thankfully, the drama isn’t protracted, and Luka is an absolute saint. Points for the charming small town atmosphere, romanticized farm life, and a supporting cast that was quite engaging (and who will get their own HEA’s in this series).
If this fits your requirements of a romance - friends to lovers, quasi fake dating, a good amount of spice - I don’t think this will fail you. Despite my complaints, I’m going to continue this series in the hopes that future stories will deliver more than the usual hangups.
So, there’s a lot I liked about this and a lot I didn't.
It’s no secret I have a contentious relationship with MF. Oft time, I fall hard for t3.5 Stars
So, there’s a lot I liked about this and a lot I didn't.
It’s no secret I have a contentious relationship with MF. Oft time, I fall hard for the male MC, and Ryder Bergman is no exception. He’s a surly sexy gentle giant who’s been dealt a difficult hand, losing most of his hearing through a bout of meningitis and subsequently, his dreams of playing collegiate soccer and maybe more. He’s isolated himself somewhat and has been mute for the last two years for reasons until a fiery classmate upends his self imposed peaceful and quiet existence.
Enter Willa Sutter. She’s a Division I athlete and the epitome of the stereotypical female MC who’s fiercely independent, stubborn, with a pretty big chip on her shoulder, trust issues, and plenty of life’s tough problems thrown at her. So of course, she refuses to communicate, deflects like nobody’s business, and honestly, it was exhausting being in her head while she fights her growing feelings, fights opening up and letting Ryder in, and fights her own wants and needs.
This is my second foray into Liese, and no doubt the woman can write. I will say her characters are layered and complicated with plenty of angsty interesting turmoil, exuding a subtle sophisticated-ness that definitely reads more mature than your typical NA novel. There’s also good frenemy banter and fun family/friend dynamics that keeps everyone honest. For those who need/want to know, the majority of this novel is basically unresolved sexual tension, and Ryder is pretty much pure yummy fiction.
Overall, Willa drove me quite bonkers, but that’s unsurprisingly par for the course. Ryder however, is now a book boyfriend.
It will be inevitable that this will be compared to Red, White & Royal Blue. If you loved that book, then this should easily satisfy. If you4.5 Stars!
It will be inevitable that this will be compared to Red, White & Royal Blue. If you loved that book, then this should easily satisfy. If you didn't love that book, then I think this will better satisfy.
Callum is thrust into the spotlight as he’s now the heir to the British throne through crazy circumstances. He’s a fish out of water to say the least, wholly unprepared to be scrutinized and judged for everything he does and says. When Callum's plight strikes a chord with Prime Minister Oliver, neither man thinks exchanging numbers would lead to anything more than maybe friendship.
So, texts lead to calls, leads to video chats and commiseration, leads to support and camaraderie which turns into so much more. These two men are lonely and isolated by the very nature of their position and as they connect and bare their very vulnerable souls, they soon find that their days and nights and ultimately, their entire reason for living, is nothing without the other.
Not gonna lie. This gave me some heartburn as the understandable need to keep their relationship under wraps gave me anxiety. However, the evolution of their feelings rang true and I was moved. Just know that Oliver Hartwell is absolutely one sexy man. He’s good looking, confident, smart, and so in control … until he isn’t. And Callum? Him not growing up with the royal family is what makes him a one of a kind genuine article, his klutzy charm, his joy in interacting with people, connecting with them, and leaving them feeling noticed is his greatest gift.
While this has a serious note to it, it was also fun and funny with a great supporting cast. I also felt very educated afterwards, but it was never forced or boring. These days, I’m typically not for contemporary romance, but I read this in one day and that is the strongest endorsement I can give, showing just how much I was captivated and how much I enjoyed this. I’ve not read Jax Calder before, but if the rest of her works are anything like this, then she’s found a devoted reader. I eagerly await the sequel and am totally bummed I have to wait a year to get it in my hands.
Thank you to the author and publisher for a copy via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review...more
Warning. This is seriously rated G to the max and tho it’s a lot unbelievable in this day and age of sexual freedom and expression, and tho4.5 Stars!!
Warning. This is seriously rated G to the max and tho it’s a lot unbelievable in this day and age of sexual freedom and expression, and though I would’ve greatly appreciated some explicit, I didn’t really miss it. Much. Proctor has richly drawn this group of brothers so well that it’s hard not to fall for each of them as they appeal on their own merits in very different, very sexy ways.
Here, Lennox grapples with his sworn enemy from culinary school working at his family’s classy farm and event center. He and Tatum were hardcore rivals, and animosity runs high on both ends but close quarters definitely shines a light on aspects of the other that neither have ever seen before. Competitive resentment slowly turns into grudging respect, fueled by some yummy palpable attraction.
What I appreciate so much about this series so far are the female characters. They’re not shrill or stupid or petty or wishy washy or run from their problems. They’re strong in their own right but have real insecurities and hang ups like we all do and each tries to find their way through life and love. Tatum has only lived in the shadow of her famous father, and she must decide if she should support his ambition or move onto cultivating her own.
What I don’t want you to think is that just because this is a closed door romance, that this is a boring read. For me, the chemistry’s wonderful, the humor’s spot on, the swoon’s pitch perfect. Lennox is confident sexy charming but caring and considerate, all tangled with his own worries and vulnerabilities. It doesn’t hurt that this also appealed to my foodie alter ego with all the tasty descriptions you could ask for, and the fabulous supporting cast continues to love each other while also doling out entertaining reality checks to those who need it, especially when they don’t want it.
What also made this book so fabulous is that there’s no 3rd act break up at 80% because I absolutely hate when that happens. Just know that these Hawthorne brothers are amazing, and Lennox here just nudged his brother Brody (from How to Kiss Your Best Friend) out of first place. It remains to be seen if younger bro, Hollywood heartthrob Flint, can claim the gold medal in the upcoming last book. I can’t wait!
From the beginning, I’ve really enjoyed this series, not only for the scary paranormal elements but also for the fantastic roma5 Stars for the Series!
From the beginning, I’ve really enjoyed this series, not only for the scary paranormal elements but also for the fantastic romance.
I know I’ve not been quiet about my love for Danny who is so swoony sexy and for Rain’s biting humor that only gets better and better. I also always revel in a great supporting cast that gives as good as it takes and makes for a really enjoyable fun ride, enriching the entire experience and again, each book elevates this dynamic.
Harmon in her afterword says it’s not for sure that this is the last we’ll see of Rain and Danny but if it is, I agree with her that this fantastically ended on a high note with plenty of exposition that my epilogue loving self luxuriated in. This excels in all areas - a weak in the knees love story, smexy smex, a compelling mystery with scary heart thumping high stakes (though this time around it was crazy unbelievable), and a protagonist that sings to my funny bone and his lover who intoxicatingly appeals to my heart.
Overall, this will remain a favorite memorable series and should Harmon revisit these two, without a doubt I’ll be all in!
Soooo…. How do I do this book justice when really in the grand scheme of things this brought nothing new to the world of contemporary MF rom4 Stars!!!
Soooo…. How do I do this book justice when really in the grand scheme of things this brought nothing new to the world of contemporary MF romance and it’s sadly so very tame?
First of all this is a friends to lovers trope with an absolute to die for male MC. Brody and Kate haven’t seen each other in 4 years due to Kate avoiding family issues, but that hasn’t stopped Brody from caring and wanting only the best for his bestie. Always supportive, always kind, leading with a quiet confidence that was sexy as hell, it was nigh impossible to not fall hard for this man.
Second, Kate didn’t drive me bonkers, and that is a very difficult thing to do. Kate for sure has some baggage to work through and yes, she has been avoiding any and all confrontation, but her eyes are opened to all things Brody finally, and she has to reevaluate her life goals.
The setting and supporting cast were pretty darn great. Brody’s family owns a farm/event center with plenty of festivals, cute animals, and 3 meddling brothers, a nosy sister, and parents who support any and all in both their inner and outer circle.
I bought this on a whim, and I’m not sorry I did. I obviously immensely enjoyed this. Simply put, I found a new book boyfriend to add to my collection, and I suspect that the rest of Brody’s brothers will soon join him there!
I’m sorta kinda putting my toe back into the MF waters, and my go at it this year has been less than stellar. This however, gives me4 Christmas Stars!
I’m sorta kinda putting my toe back into the MF waters, and my go at it this year has been less than stellar. This however, gives me a small ray of hope.
For those that need to know, the story does jump back and forth in time, giving glimpses of the past showing how Andrew and Molly start off rocky but eventually, become best buds and how in present time, they endure all sorts of travel mishaps to get home for Christmas.
The main star of this show is Andrew. Sensitive, thoughtful, caring, a man who thoroughly enjoys the holidays because what matters most to him is spending such important times of the year with those he loves. Though Molly could really care less about Christmas cheer (classic curmudgeon in full force), she resignedly is determined to get her bestie home so he can partake in all his fun traditions. When an off the cuff kiss under the mistletoe turns things on their axis, both Andrew and Molly (mostly Molly) will need to come to grips with their latent buried feelings for each other.
Again, Andrew was an absolute dream. Molly irked me here and there and of course, there’s the big crisis inducing brain exploding revelation that puts a wrench in things. Thankfully, said wrench only lasts for several hours and I guess I sorta kinda mostly forgive Molly for briefly running away from such a perfect male specimen.
Yes, I have high standards, and I am unfairly intolerant of most female MC’s that I encounter in any media form, but this had great feel good moments and did I mention Andrew??? He definitely made this the best MF I’ve read all year!! Happy Holidays!
After years of reading romance it’s no surprise that one can get jaded right? Toss in the fact that this is supposed to be YA, and the cards we4 Stars
After years of reading romance it’s no surprise that one can get jaded right? Toss in the fact that this is supposed to be YA, and the cards were already stacked against this book as it's not a top trope that I readily partake in. However, every once in a while a book surprises me, and this was all sorts of intriguing and titillating with an absolutely wonderful male protagonist!
Violet is a seer who came from nothing and has made herself an invaluable member of the king’s retinue. She can play with the best of them and can manipulate her visions just right, all to influence the public, all to win favor from and for the king. It’s not the most reliable survival tactic, but Violet’s made it this far so she sees no reason to change.
There’s just one little snag of course. Prince Cyrus will one day become king soon, and though as kids they were tied together inexplicably, his idealism clashes with Violet’s harsh practicality. Make no mistake, this enemies to lovers, slow burn romance interwoven with vague prophecy and curses, all nicely delivers a heady mix of doubt, distrust, and desire. Oh yeah.
Again, surprisingly intense for a YA, this had dashes of levity and modernity, contrasting against a medieval fantasy historical setting. It obviously worked for me. Violet didn’t piss me off til the very end, but regardless, I’m itching to find out how she and Cyrus will work together for their happily ever after, and I’ve found me a new book boyfriend who is sadly much too young for me! ...more
A really swoony touching epilogue for Julian and Malachi four years later.
Julian has everything planned to a T, bridging what he and Malachi bo4 Stars
A really swoony touching epilogue for Julian and Malachi four years later.
Julian has everything planned to a T, bridging what he and Malachi bonded over when they first met and tying it together with a very apt love declaration!
Holiday cheer, good vibes, and all the feels! ...more
I’m just going to reiterate what others are saying.
This really was a joy to read.
Malachi was fun and funny with his no filter personality, w4.5 Stars
I’m just going to reiterate what others are saying.
This really was a joy to read.
Malachi was fun and funny with his no filter personality, who constantly wears his heart on his sleeve. He’s always for the underdog, always for those who are treated unkindly or unfair. It will come as no surprise that he finally finds a place in his dad’s postal company, working in the Dead Letter department, trying to find the rightful destinations of the lost mail that comes through. When Malachi takes an avid interest in decades old love letters who have never found their recipient, he sets out to find some answers and hopefully a happy ending.
Leading the investigation is Julian, Malachi’s boss. As he and Malachi start working together to figure out the mystery, they inevitably grow closer resulting in some very sweet and steamy interactions.
Though Malachi is top entertainment value here, it’s Julian who stole my heart elevating himself to book boyfriend status. He's quite the yummy character in his understated serious but sexy way that really melted my heart among other things. Unf.
Overall, a very feel good Walker with a happy ending on both fronts!...more
A lovely angsty look at Alexei and Sean in the aftermath of the terrible awful events that occurred in In the Blood. There’s no doubt these t4.5 Stars
A lovely angsty look at Alexei and Sean in the aftermath of the terrible awful events that occurred in In the Blood. There’s no doubt these two love each other but sometimes that’s not quite enough to move forward from such trauma.
However, a critical mission forces these two to work together again which just serves to fully solidify why they’re so great together on and off the field.
Poignantly emotional, peppered with intense action, Turner delivers yet another win for this series!...more
Admittedly, I’m not typically ever in the mood for fae politics which often bridges horror with a cold brutal manipulation, always with doubl3.5 Stars
Admittedly, I’m not typically ever in the mood for fae politics which often bridges horror with a cold brutal manipulation, always with double entendre underhanded word play hiding true nefarious intentions. Just so you know, this is no different and doesn't let up on these sorts of themes prevalently seen in the sidhe culture.
However, this is ripe with just the type of hero that I love. Roark is the powerful son of Queen Mab, and he’s dutiful in protecting his Unseelie citizens at the detriment to his own health and safety. He’s cold as ice, and his unbreakable veneer makes him unapproachable and untouchable. Roark likes it that way because to ever show weakness would make him too vulnerable to his enemies as well as to his very own mother. Nevertheless, such antiheroes always have a soft spot that renders them unable to do anything but their love’s every whim, and they would sacrifice all, even their own happiness, to see them safe. That person for Roark is Phineas, and it was a lovely thing to watch unfold.
This isn’t perfect except for Roark. He was a wonderful character, self sacrificing, alpha intimidating and uber powerful, and I enjoyed seeing his defenses slowly chipped away in the face of Phineas’s determination to find out the truth. Phineas was a little more difficult for me to like. He’s the rare human who can channel ley line magic which is a huge problem as it makes him a target for all creatures who want to manipulate and use him, and that includes Roark’s mother.
Regardless, this was a very nice set up to the age old feud between the Seelie and Unseelie, and though Roark and Phinaeas find love and score a point for their side, the war has just begun…...more
I will be the first to admit that YA is not my go to but the three stories I’ve read from Bauer I've quite enjoyed, and I was curious to see w4 Hearts
I will be the first to admit that YA is not my go to but the three stories I’ve read from Bauer I've quite enjoyed, and I was curious to see what she brought to the table in yet a different genre. To say the least, I wasn’t disappointed.
Emory is the sweetest most unassuming guy. Shy but brilliant, aspiring to be a writer, he hides behind his love of all things scary because it’s the greatest escape out there, and Emory likes to hide. Every year he and his family go to Florida for the summer, meeting up with other families who vacation there at the same time. It’s a yearly reunion of sorts and as always, Emory looks forward to secretly lusting after hunky gorgeous Connor, two years his senior. This year’s no different for Emory. He’s still awkward, still bamboozled often by his outgoing twin sister, and he’s still crushing oh so hard on his neighbor that he gets to ogle from afar for two blissful weeks.
However, it’s different for Connor this time around. Apparently, Emory has blossomed into an elusive hottie who doesn't know the power of his killer good looks and charming self deprecation. Connor though, sure has noticed!
What I really loved about this book despite it’s very tame in the smex department self, was how much I enjoyed the way Emory and Connor were drawn, each with their own appealing and completely opposite characteristics, and though only told through Emory’s point of view, their distinct personalities shine through. Emory is slowly coming into his own, a lot scarred from high school bullying and unfortunately, hesitant to own up to his voice and be confident in his decisions. However, when he’s with Connor, though he’s often embarrassed and mortified, Emory never hides from his feelings (he really has no filter) and his emotions are on full display. Seen through Emory, Connor is like a dream come true, heroic, protective, treating Emory like he always should be, precious and appreciated.
This was often funny, silly, peppered with some snark and good shoutouts to the pop culture of all things horror, paranormal, and supernatural . The supporting cast was quirkily interesting and entertainingly outrageous at times, with a sassy wink at all the media entertainment rules and stereotypes. Add a spooky and gory otherworldly bent (which was a tad incongruent to the mostly contemporary vibe that I thought it would maintain) and this actually made me anxious as I was legit creeped out and frightened several times for good measure. Toss in a very strong swoon factor as Emory and Cooper solidify their long latent hidden feelings and as I read, my glowing affinity towards them only grew.
Obviously, I liked these two adorable dreamy guys falling in love, solving crime and murder, and fighting off evil both metapohrically and literally. If the above sounds appealing, I��m confident fans of this author or those on the fence on whether or not to explore Bauer further should have no problem loving this!
Thank you to the author for a copy in exchange for an honest review
* A Reader Obsessed *
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Books:
book-boyfriend
(81)
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