Book safety, content warnings, and tropes & tags down below. Benji wanted Leo to look at him like he was worth something. Like he was wanted, neededBook safety, content warnings, and tropes & tags down below. Benji wanted Leo to look at him like he was worth something. Like he was wanted, needed even. But Benji didn’t know how to make people look at him with anything but pity, misery, or disbelief.
This book was very charming and quite sweet. Benji was a walking disaster and totally OTT, but also very endearing. I do enjoy characters like that a lot. The book was also surprisingly low angst considering the main trope is ‘best friend’s dad’. To say that Benji has an awesome best friend is the understatement of the year. He felt like he had the words, I kissed your dad, and I liked it, printed on his forehead.
I don’t really have a lot of thoughts as it was all pretty straight forward. Benji made me tear up a couple of times because he had totally lost faith in himself and didn’t believe anyone could or ever would love him, which of course got me right in the feels. I didn’t really connect much with the other MC, Leo, which was unfortunate, but I didn’t have any issues with him either. It was all very uncomplicated, even though they both experienced some bouts of insecurity in themselves and the relationship. It was cute, fairly hot, and an easy and quick read. Benji was his goddammit, and he kissed him like forever was a foregone conclusion.
3.75 stars
⬇️ Blanket spoiler warning ⬇️
⚠️ Tropes & tags ⚠️ Age gap Best friend’s dad Forced proximity Roommates Friends to lovers Virgin MC Single dad Clumsy and accident prone MC
⚠️⚠️ Content warning ⚠️⚠️ Mentions of homophobic parent Mentions of being disowned Explicit sexual content Homelessness Financial insecurity
⚠️⚠️⚠️ Book safety ⚠️⚠️⚠️ Cheating: No OM/OW drama: No Third-act breakup: No POV: 3rd person, dual POV Genre: Contemporary romance, M/M Strict roles or versatile: Versatile MCs age: 25 and *not specified.
*as far as I could tell. “Apparently, the fastest way to make me emotional is to be nice to me.”
“Consent is a two-way street, love. It’s okay for anyone to ask, at any time.”
It still stung, though, to know that he was the one carrying torches for someone who wouldn’t light a match for him.
This quote makes the book sound way angstier than it is, so it’s not a great representation out of context. I just thought it was a lovely (and sad) quote....more
Book safety, content warnings, and tropes & tags down below.
Sorry in advance for the insane amount of quotes. I couldn’t pick. Miller Harrison tickBook safety, content warnings, and tropes & tags down below.
Sorry in advance for the insane amount of quotes. I couldn’t pick. Miller Harrison ticked boxes Sandy didn’t even know he had. But handsome was zero excuse for arseholery.
This book deals with a fair few things that are serious and important that I don’t feel at all equipped to comment on, like identity and sexuality, and there’s a good bit of bigotry in the forms of homophobia and ableism as well. I will say though, that these things are handled really well, and I enjoyed it being discussed through an emotional lovestory, and through characters that felt real. “You can’t park there. It’s a disabled space.” “Accessible, actually.” If he had a dollar for every fucking time someone decided to police his disability, he’d be rolling in it.
It deals with a semi-closeted MC with a disability, who inadvertently (and against his will), becomes a role model for gay and disabled people, when all his life, he’s tried to be invisible and fly under the radar. He also falls in love with a very proud, femme gay man, who enjoys wearing skirts, a little makeup, and in general sometimes presents more as non-binary to the outside world, while he personally doesn’t want to be labeled at all. He just wants to be whatever feels right. You might imagine that one MC who doesn’t want to make waves, paired with one who wants to fight loudly to have the same rights as everyone else, might create some issues, and you would be right. It’s not always smooth sailing, but their connection is really strong, and when they have issues, they talk it out (eventually). But it taught me that if your own parents can’t be trusted to listen to your story and learn from it, then no one else deserves it from you just as a matter of curiosity. It hurts too much to have it argued or rejected time after time, so I only offer it when I really want to. There might be people who genuinely want to know to improve their understanding, but unless they’re going to be a part of my life, I don’t have to be their rainbow Wikipedia. And they aren’t entitled to that from me any more than they would be entitled to answers on personal questions from a cis, straight person.”
This book was like a complete 180 from the previous one in the series, Up Close and Personal. I believed in the MCs being together, and they had amazing chemistry. And although the themes are serious and it got really sad at times, it’s not horribly angsty or anything. I think what angst is there was needed. Very highly recommend. “You’ll share your arse and ram your tongue up mine, but you won’t share your potato fritters?”
Ugh, I don’t like the cover though. That’s not a great representation of the Sandy I have in my mind after reading, lol. She thinks I’m one of those cheerful, twinky, go-shopping-with-your-girlfriend kind of gays, and I am so not that person. I’m six foot three of insecure, gangly, potty-mouthed confusion who struggles to find a dress size to fit.
⬇️ Blanket spoiler warning ⬇️
⚠️ Tropes & tags ⚠️ Rugby player Disability rep Wheelchair user Femme MC (skirts, makeup heels) Para athlete Assistant pathologist Semi-closeted Coming out Facial (not a nice day at the spa) Lingerie ‘Fostering’ a teenager
⚠️⚠️ Content warning ⚠️⚠️ Explicit sexual content Homophobia Mentions of drunk driving accident Ableism Domestic abuse (father/son, side character) Attempted kidnapping Car accident (on page) Injury and hospitalization
⚠️⚠️⚠️ Book safety ⚠️⚠️⚠️ Cheating: No OM/OW drama: No Third-act breakup: No POV: 3rd person, dual POV Genre: Contemporary romance, M/M Strict roles or versatile: Versatile […] I am so over babying guys through their puberty of emotional expression.”
“Yeah. Fucking men, right?” Sandy followed his gaze. “Who’d fucking love them?” “Us,” they both said and clinked their glasses.
His eyes rolled so far, the only thing stopping them falling down the back of his throat was the what-the-fuck coming up it....more
Book safety, content warnings, and tropes & tags down below. He’s not the firstborn child. He’s not the only daughter. He’s not even the baby. He haBook safety, content warnings, and tropes & tags down below. He’s not the firstborn child. He’s not the only daughter. He’s not even the baby. He has probably been fighting for attention his whole life.
Josh’s Jackpot might be my favorite in the series. I’ve loved every book so much, and this one was no different. I am still very new to reading MM+, but the MMM worked so well with these characters. Considering none of the MCs were in an existing relationship with each other, I’m really impressed by how the author made it work. They all knew each other at least a little bit, and kinky relationships definitely help build trust and a connection faster than a ‘vanilla’ relationship might. I’m also one hundred percent certain that Josh realizes the effect he has on Emmett, because he bats his lashes and brings the ear of his bear up to partially cover his face, enacting a full-on cuteness assault.
At first I wasn’t sure how I felt about the suspenseful subplot, but it actually worked really well in showing how the dynamics between all three MCs worked, and it helped highlight why they all needed each other. They were really good at communicating their needs and wants, which also helped a lot. I enjoyed seeing two of the men pairing off and having some good ‘ol fun together when the third wasn’t available, which surprised me a little. I thought I wouldn’t enjoy that at all, but their communication made it a non-issue. I do wish we got more scenes on-page with Josh and only one of his Daddies, but there’s a limit to how many sex scenes you can have during a book, lol. It’s actually been a lot of fun to see how the author’s explicit scenes have improved from book to book. This one was really hot.
I’m also impressed by how well handled/written Josh’s issues with bed-wetting and nightmares was, both by the author herself and by the characters around Josh. His character overall made me tear up multiple times. He made me incredibly emotional sometimes.
I’m looking forward to see what she writes next.
⬇️ Blanket spoiler warning ⬇️
⚠️ Tropes & tags ⚠️ Double age gap MMM Age regression Daddy kink D/s Restraints Threesomes Stuffie-humping Cockwarming Cock cage Orgasm denial Facial (not the spa kind) Interracial relationship Size difference
⚠️⚠️ Content warning ⚠️⚠️ Kidnapping Nightmares Bed-wetting Gun violence Feelings of guilt ABDL with wetting Feelings of insecurity Anxiety/panic attacks Explicit sexual content Sex while in ‘Little space’ Stuffie used in a sexual manner Safewording (non-sexual situation) Mentions of cheating (side character) Mentions of humiliation play (not on page)
⚠️⚠️⚠️ Book safety ⚠️⚠️⚠️ Cheating: No OM/OW drama: No Third-act breakup: No POV: 1st person, triple POV Genre: Contemporary romance, M/M/M Strict roles or versatile: One MC only bottoms. The two Daddies are versatile. Not that being a dom is about the control or power. If that’s how a dom looks at it, they need to take a step back and re-evaluate.
And I suppose the other Littles in our circle are trying to get me to talk, too, but… well, have you ever tried having a deep and meaningful conversation with a bunch of people who are mentally aged five and under?
Our usual roles in kink and in the bedroom don’t negate human responses to trauma, or loss, or grief. A good dom can show weakness. Can cry....more
- Updated review - Book safety, content warnings, and tropes & tags down below.
Okay, I’m rewriting most of this review because I had a lot of thoughts- Updated review - Book safety, content warnings, and tropes & tags down below.
Okay, I’m rewriting most of this review because I had a lot of thoughts that took a while to put my finger on. I don’t want to be hateful, but this book wasn’t it for me. Spoiler alert probably.
There is no doubt that Cora Rose is a very talented writer. I’ve enjoyed every book of hers I’ve read so far, but this one was wild to me. I’ll leave my original review below. I’m sure some of my anger has festered and made it worse in my mind, so I figured it’s nice to have some of my initial thoughts posted still. Keep in mind I’m quite annoyed when writing these next bits.
I just really didn’t like Wesley at all. I found him to be quite childish, emotionally manipulative, and sometimes straight up cruel. Also crass. Wesley says he doesn’t enjoy sex as much anymore (he hasn’t had any for WEEKS you guys, how does he even still live? *insert eye roll), and he casually asks his friends if they know a girl he can fuck for a few minutes. Gag. I didn’t connect much with either character. It all felt a bit surface level. The things I would’ve thought were most important were glossed over, and whenever Wesley messed up (several times), there were no consequences. Simon’s ex wasn’t a very nice person, so I feel like Simon didn’t stand up for himself when he was treated unfairly. Like maybe Wesley would’ve gotten the boot ages ago if Simon thought he was allowed to speak his mind more. Maybe I’m projecting, but that’s a bit of the vibe I got, and it’s not a good one.
I do really love Cora’s writing, and I freaking adore some of the books I’ve read, but this one wasn’t the best for me.
Original review ⬇️ _____________________________________________ How had I ever found anyone else attractive when Simon existed?
I really did like Simon (although I wish we got a bit more information about him in general), and he was very intriguing right from the start. I wanted to get to know him, but didn’t feel like I ever did. Most of my ‘dislike’ about this book comes from Wesley. I don’t think he’s a bad character, but he *is* awfully young, and certainly acts like it sometimes. There were a few moments that angered me quite a lot. It’s not Cora’s fault that he hit a couple of my pet peeves, though. That’s just how it goes sometimes. I also wanted a little bit of groveling, but didn’t get any. He dresses like a forty-year-old accountant, and it gets me all hot and bothered. I swear to god. I have a new kink.
I can’t at all argue that this is a well written story. I just wasn’t as invested as I wanted to be. The ending definitely picked up in terms of my investment and entertainment, and I also cried quite a lot by the time it was all over. Would be strange to read a Cora Rose book without weeping just a little bit. “So! So Lucas said I was maybe bi.” “Nah, man. Just because you kiss a dude doesn’t make you bi. I give dudes blow jobs all the time, and I’m straight as an arrow.” My mouth drops open, and I gape at my friend. “What the fuck, Jude!”
This made me laugh long and hard, lol.
Blanket spoiler warning ⬇️
⚠️ Tropes & tags ⚠️ Coworkers Sexual awakening Opposites attract Obsessive Push and pull
⚠️⚠️ Content warning ⚠️⚠️ Explicit sexual content Unsafe sex Death of a partner (off page, in the past) Excessive drinking (side character) Past cheating (not between MCs) Unspecified STI (MC, past, treated) Brief mentions of drunk driving accident
⚠️⚠️⚠️ Book safety ⚠️⚠️⚠️ Cheating: No OM drama: Mild drama with a woman. Nothing happens beyond texting and intent to date (before MCs are together) Third-act breakup: Yes POV: 1st person, dual POV Strict roles or versatile: Versatile […] leaving me alone once again with my thoughts. Dreadful things.
It hurts to breathe, but my lungs keep doing it anyway. Fucking traitors....more
Book safety, content warnings, and tropes & tags down below. That wasn't exactly what I'd wanted to say, but no wonder I already trust you and, for theBook safety, content warnings, and tropes & tags down below. That wasn't exactly what I'd wanted to say, but no wonder I already trust you and, for the first time in my life, I kind of wish I had ovaries so I could have your babies seemed like a little too much […]
Man, this book was some of the most fun I’ve had reading a new book in a long time. Not necessarily in a ‘ha ha’ way (although there were some funny moments as well), but just the story, the romance, and the vibes. Said vibes were immaculate, let me tell you. It’s so perfect for fall. Those small town witchy/magical vibes. It kinda gave me that joy-of-reading feeling I had when I was way younger.
Very *very* rarely do I read an entire series of books, but this book made me want to read every coming book in the series. All of the side characters were great, and gave just enough that I really want to read their book. Unfortunately, this is the only story out so far, but I will definitely be waiting for the next one. Did I mention there’s a talking cat? Because there is. We don’t know what’s going on with said cat yet, but I’m kinda crossing my fingers he’s actually a person somehow, lol. […] I found him on the side of the road and apparently some part of me decided he was mine.
Oops, I forgot to mention much about this book in particular. Dillon and Ash were both great and lovable characters, and I’m looking forward to seeing more of them as side characters in future books. They got a HEA in this one, but the series has an overarching plot. No awful cliffhanger though, thankfully! When Dillon lifted me, putting those big strong hands under my ass and hoisting me up until our faces were level with one another, I squeaked in surprise. Fuck yeah. Being manhandled was hot.
Very highly recommend if you enjoy those paranormal small town vibes with a light sprinkling of spooky season ✨
⬇️ Blanket spoiler warning ⬇️
⚠️ Tropes & tags ⚠️ Fated mates Hellhound shifter Witch/mage Small town Past trauma Lonely MC Size difference Insta-love Paranormal
⚠️⚠️ Content warning ⚠️⚠️ Scars Murder Hospitalization Gunshot wound Graphic violence Attempted murder Explicit sexual content Mentions of past assault Mentions of past emotional abuse
⚠️⚠️⚠️ Book safety ⚠️⚠️⚠️ Cheating: No OM/OW drama: No Third-act breakup: No POV: 1st person, dual POV Genre: Paranormal romance, M/M Strict roles or versatile: Versatile I suspected if more humans knew about us and how they weren’t the most powerful species on the planet, their sense of peace would be shattered. Realizations like that tended to make humans stabby.
“Mom, I’m an adult. I can make plans without needing to tell you about them. Do you ask Birch for details about his plans?” “Birch doesn’t make plans, honey, he hooks up with people. Is that what you’re talking about? Sex?” I swear I heard her clap her hands. “Are you having sex again? Oh, honey, I’m so proud of you.”
“Oh, you’re a big one, aren’t you?” She hummed appreciatively as soon as he swung the camera toward his face. “Mom!” “Well, he is, honey. Look at him. I mean, I knew you liked them big all over, but... He’s one big mountain of a man. And so good looking too.” Did my mom just call me a size queen? I wanted to crawl under the sofa....more
Book safety, content warnings, and tropes & tags down below. “What if we hurt each other?” I ask softly. “What if we don’t?” he counters.
*le sigh* Book safety, content warnings, and tropes & tags down below. “What if we hurt each other?” I ask softly. “What if we don’t?” he counters.
*le sigh* I fudging loved this book a stupid amount. Just the entire thing. It was so sweet and fun. Lighthearted, but still had substance. I laughed and cried. The MCs both had fab personalities without being one-sided. It was incredibly well done, finding that balance. This is the first book I read in the series, but that was totally fine. Talk about closing it out with a bang, tho. “Your needs and wants?” I tell him softly. “They matter.”
I also adore books that can pull off intimacy *and* hotness. Sex scenes that can make you cry is a rare thing, but Emmy created such great chemistry between these MCs that anything was possible. Probably one of the better pure love stories I’ve read in a good while. We all know I prefer some external fudgery, but this story didn’t need it at all. It was honestly perfect. There was only one single thing I would change, and that is mostly because I have very little (read: zero) patience. I had to skip ahead and check out what the situation with Harrison’s daughter was and how it came to be, because I’m nosy like that. How Sam managed to wait and not ask about it a single time is hella impressive, lol. Couldn’t be me. But yeah, I loved this so much. I could easily talk about this book for ages, but I would probably just repeat myself. “You’re an angel, aren’t you? That’s what this is.” “What?” I ask around a laugh. He nods, like it’s all settled. Voice nearly a whisper, he says, “An angel of cock and cake. Two of my very favorite things. I must’ve died and gone to Heaven.”
I also have a new appreciation for chaps (insert ‘biting knuckles’ pic here). Harrison has a cowboy kink? Bro, I think I might have one as well. Damn. I’ve been alone, in one way or another, for most of my life. But I don’t want to end up that way. I don’t want to leave this life the same way I came into it.
Blanket spoiler warning ⬇️
⚠️ Tropes & tags ⚠️ Single dad Veterinarian/animal control worker Golden retriever MC So many animals Hookup to lovers Small town Date nights (and mornings) ‘Grew up in foster care’ Found family element
⚠️⚠️⚠️ Book safety ⚠️⚠️⚠️ Cheating: No OM drama: No Third-act breakup: No POV: 1st person, dual POV Strict roles or versatile: Versatile “Dibs!” I call out, shooting my hand high into the air. “I’m sorry. What now?” Tilda asks, following my line of sight. I point at the man, who’s now walking away, his hat back atop his head. “That one. He’s mine. I’m callin’ dibs.” Carl huffs out a laugh, and I turn his way, narrowing my eyes. His own shoot wide before he holds up his BBQ-covered hands. “Hey, you know I’m straight.” “I don’t care, Carl. I need you to acknowledge my dibs ’cause that man could bend a crowbar.” “All yours, Sammy,” he says in a rush. Satisfied, I turn to Tilda and raise an eyebrow. Tilda shakes her head, a little smile at the corner of her mouth. “Gonna lick the boy, Sammy?” “That’s the plan,” I acknowledge.
“I’ve never broken up with anyone,” I blurt. Harrison’s eyebrows rise. “How many people are you dating?” I bark a laugh, and Harrison grins.
“Hey, Harrison?” He turns off the faucet, back shaking the tiniest bit before he lets out a happy hum and turns my way. “Yeah, Sam?”
“Sam?” A smile curves my lips. “Yeah, Winifred?” “I think we’re friends now, don’t you?” the little girl asks. Ah, God. Blinking rapidly, I clear my throat. “Yeah, li’l miss. I do.”
And despite the fact that Sam makes me ridiculously happy, I know our relationship isn’t a cure-all for my mental health. It’s not fair to place that pressure on Sam, even inside my own head....more
Book safety, content warnings, and tropes & tags down below. At this point he’d been lying to them for so long it seemed rude to tell them the truthBook safety, content warnings, and tropes & tags down below. At this point he’d been lying to them for so long it seemed rude to tell them the truth now.
Lunatic was a bit different for me. I was very much invested in finding out what Archer was hiding, and just his general story. I think I understand why he is the way he is, but I also wanted a bit more. The conflict with the family, and especially Noah, was really well done.
I loved getting to know about Project Watchtower, and I am sooo fucking excited about the first book in The Watch series now. I mean, I was already excited, but after meeting Gift, I feel like I can’t wait.
Archer and Mac are perfectly cute together, and I enjoyed their story, but I was honestly a bit more intrigued by everything else going on than their relationship. There were definitely parts of their dynamic that I loved tho, don’t get me wrong. The sort of ‘enemies with benefits’ thing they had going on was interesting and waaay different than any of the other books. Not that they were really enemies or had a FWB situation, but they kept getting drawn to each other without really wanting to. Especially Archer tried to, but that big hunking redhead was too much to resist. It was also neat to see that connection to Shep and Elijah’s book in the Elite Protection Services series.
I have very little knowledge about psychopathy, but the part in the book where Archer gets completely overwhelmed because he experiences new emotions was very interesting. They explain it a little like a child experiencing big emotions, or the first time a Deaf person can hear with implants, etc. It’s so new to him and he doesn’t know how to deal with it.
Blanket spoiler warning ⬇️
⚠️ Tropes & tags ⚠️ Professional gambler Psychopath MC Accidental marriage Case solving Enemies to lovers Secret gov. project
⚠️⚠️ Content warning ⚠️⚠️ Explicit sexual content Child abuse Sexual assault (off page, in the past) Graphic torture Violence Feelings of loneliness
⚠️⚠️⚠️ Book safety ⚠️⚠️⚠️ Cheating: No OM drama: No Third-act breakup: No POV: 3rd person, dual POV Strict roles or versatile: Versatile...more
Book safety, content warnings, and tropes & tags down below. While I was intelligent, and smart about the ways of life way too early in my youth, I Book safety, content warnings, and tropes & tags down below. While I was intelligent, and smart about the ways of life way too early in my youth, I wasn’t emotionally equipped to handle it.
I’m having a difficult time figuring out how to rate and review this book. I liked both characters, liked their story, the plot, all of it. I guess I just didn’t connect with them as much emotionally? I kinda felt like a spectator, and not like I was a part of their journey. Hopefully that makes sense. I think it’s a great book, it just didn’t hit me in the feels as much as I wanted. While I wanted him, I had enough respect for him to not approach him as a minor. Apparently, it didn���t matter that I had the brain of someone older than thirty.
One thing I absolutely love about this book tho, is that the ‘problematic’ aspects are properly addressed. You can actually notice the development in the relationship, the change into something that is healthier by the end. I adore that the MCs go to therapy, both individually and together. They acknowledge that Levi used sex in an unhealthy way in order to avoid dealing with emotional trauma. If it wasn’t for these things, and the fact that Levi is mentally way older than his actual age, this book would’ve given me a very different feeling (the icky kind). And yes, Levi is an old soul in many ways, but he’s also emotionally childish sometimes, which is very understandable, considering his life experiences. It was also probably a good choice to make Mr. Carter flawed as well. He didn’t feel like this older man that had everything figured out. Sure, there’s a serious power imbalance at play here, but they felt more like equals, especially by the end. I let him rant as my heart filled with joy and lust while I fixed his poor hair again. There was this need in me to take care of him as much as I needed someone to take care of me. I bet he needed someone to love him and do nice things for him. I could definitely be that man.
Overall, it’s a well written taboo story that was handled sensitively, which resulted in it not feeling very taboo by the end. I liked it a lot. I didn’t *love* it, because it kinda felt like it stayed at a surface level, when I wanted to be dragged deeper and really feel with the characters. Still a very strong story. The reasoning behind his need for a daddy should have terrified me and had me running. This wasn’t simply a kink he had. It was more deep-rooted than that.
Blanket spoiler warning ⬇️
⚠️ Tropes & tags ⚠️ Student/advisor Age gap (18/37) Past trauma Daddy/boy (mostly in the bedroom) Found family Forbidden/secret relationship Mild taboo Co-dependency
⚠️⚠️ Content warning ⚠️⚠️ Explicit sexual content Child abuse Forced prostitution Bullying Co-dependency Attempted rape Sexual assault Grooming Pedophilia Rape Homophobia Child prostitution Kidnapping Stockholm syndrome (not between MCs) Graphic violence
(Most of these things are off page or recalled in few details, but are still a large part of the book. The attempted rape, kidnapping and graphic violence are on page and detailed)
⚠️⚠️⚠️ Book safety ⚠️⚠️⚠️ Cheating: No OM drama: No Third-act breakup: No POV: 1st person, dual POV Strict roles or versatile: Versatile I sensed life with Levi would be a lot of push and pull when it came to boundaries and giving in to him or not.
“No moaning, brat. This is your punishment.” “Yes, Mr. Carter.”
“My tree! My poor, poor tree.” I wiped my tears of laughter as I watched my poor guy sit on the floor and sigh holding a crushed ornament as if it was his crushed soul. “This is why I can’t have nice things.”
Everyone has their preferences in what they find attractive.” “Yeah, but my preferences stem from trauma.”
“We aren’t having sex and I’m not going to spank you.” “But I need you.” I cupped his face to get him to focus. “Levi, you need to stop relying on sex to distract you from pain. It’s time you faced it. We’ll face it together. We should be having sex for pleasure and that we love each other, not to take you away to a place and not face the things you need to.”
He turned forty a few months ago, and he was quite grumpy about it, but I found it adorable. I had a coffin cake made and covered the house in black balloons and streamers. I got a lot of glorious spankings for that one....more
Book safety, content warnings, and tropes & tags down below. He bites his lip and fuck is he hot… in a Mr. Rogers kind of way. I mean, he doesn’t weBook safety, content warnings, and tropes & tags down below. He bites his lip and fuck is he hot… in a Mr. Rogers kind of way. I mean, he doesn’t wear the cardigans, but he does in spirit.
Okay, first of all: Emery is adorable. He deserves all the good things, and I would do awful things to keep him happy and safe. His character is heavily influenced by his ADHD, but thankfully he’s got a well developed personality outside of the neurospicy parts as well. His character didn’t really line up with what I expected after the glimpses we got of him in Sem, so I was a bit surprised by the golden retriever vibes. I was expecting dark, broken/broody and self destruction. I still loved him, though. Just had to shift my expectations a little. “Well, you’re impulsive, chaotic, and unpredictable. To name a few.” Well, that was incredibly blunt and unnecessary. Not to mention, entirely accurate.
I admittedly took a long break in about the middle of the book, so I don’t remember all of the details of whatever happened before 60%. I’m left with questions about why August was so afraid of disappointing his mom. I’m sure it was mentioned, but I’m too lazy to look it up, lol. August isn’t a cruel person, but there’s definitely a couple of instances where he isn’t very nice to Emery. Emery is very obsessed with August though, and would forgive him for anything, probably. Apparently, I have obsessive tendencies too. Like adding a deranged cherry to top off the shit sundae that is my life.
I did get a little bored with this book, hence the long-ass break. I don’t know exactly why that is, as it’s a good book. I just didn’t love it *as* much as I did Whit and Sem (is it too soon to reread Whit, btw?) Anyway. Cora Rose always makes me cry so I for sure connect with the characters atleast a little bit, but I wasn’t awfully invested in these guys. By the time I picked this back up again I had honestly forgotten about the whole ‘rescued from a snowstorm’ thing as well. Not great. I understand now why Edward was so obsessed with Bella. I’d absolutely hover creepily over August’s bed, watching him sleep, because he smells like a snack.
Still a lovely book, just not my favorite.
Blanket spoiler warning ⬇️
⚠️ Tropes & tags ⚠️ Abandonment issues Golden retriever MC Neurodivergent ADHD Forced proximity Stepbrothers Roommates Past trauma Facials (not the skincare kind, arguably) A concerning lack of prep ...more
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I feel like I keep repeating myself when it comes to Onley’s books, but they’re all just sBook safety, content warnings, and tropes & tags down below.
I feel like I keep repeating myself when it comes to Onley’s books, but they’re all just super entertaining. I didn’t really have any expectations when it came to the second book as I haven’t seen a lot about it, but I really loved August’s character in particular. I am also a massive fan of characters with psychic abilities, so I knew I would enjoy the clairvoyance bit. I would’ve loved even more of it, but it added something fun and different no matter what. “I want to keep him.” “Bruh. Those are thinking thoughts not speaking thoughts,” Noah coached. “You can’t just go around telling strangers you’ve imprinted on them like some werewolf in a Twilight movie. They won’t get it.”
My favorite part about a series like this is how you slowly get to know the rest of the characters as well, either before they get their own books, or you get/learn more about characters you already know and love. I especially love how we get more of Noah, as he’s my favorite so far. I immediately started Moonstruck when I finished Psycho, so it’s all blending together a little bit, but that’s honestly a lot of the fun. You could read it is a standalone if you’re not too bothered by a huge cast that features in every book, but I’m definitely enjoying it more by listening in order.
Blanket spoiler warning ⬇️
⚠️ Tropes & tags ⚠️ Professors Former (disgraced) FBI agent Clairvoyant MC Genius (no, seriously. Crazy smart) Possessive/obsessive Eidetic memory (photographic) Found family Murder boys
⚠️⚠️ Content warning ⚠️⚠️ Explicit sexual content Mentions of forced institutionalization Murder Graphic violence Mentions of torture porn Anxiety Panic attacks
⚠️⚠️⚠️ Book safety ⚠️⚠️⚠️ Cheating: No OM drama: No Third-act breakup: No POV: 3rd person, dual POV Strict roles or versatile: Versatile...more
Book safety, content warnings, and tropes & tags down below. He’s so damn grumpy I have to bite my lip to keep from laughing out loud.
Well, that’s Book safety, content warnings, and tropes & tags down below. He’s so damn grumpy I have to bite my lip to keep from laughing out loud.
Well, that’s how you write an enemies-to-lovers book, folks. I was so impressed after reading Sebastian (loved it a silly amount), and that, combined with enemies-to-lovers not being my favorite trope, meant that I didn’t really expect to love it as much, buuut I did. Noel and Bell’s passionate hate and love worked so well. Their chemistry was off the charts, and I felt like the evolution of their relationship was believable. Noel’s got black leather cuffs on both wrists, heavy black boots on his feet, and the tightest pair of leather pants I’ve ever set my eyes on. The outline of his dick is so prominent, he could use the damn thing as a printing press.
Noel is pretty much an arrogant prick, unapologetically so, and yet I still enjoyed his character without getting annoyed, which is super impressive, lol. He has a massive ego, is quite cocky, and the definition of grumpy, but has a marshmallow center that only Bellamy can access. We don’t learn a lot about Noel and why he is the way he his, but I could imagine his parents being quite absent. I guess that makes it more endearing how his love language is taking care of Bellamy (when he’s not busy insulting him. Lovingly of course. Eventually.) He wants me even when he doesn’t want to want me, and that’s making him all the more frenzied.
Bellamy is very much sunshine in a person, but has no problem going toe to toe with Noel in every way, which is probably why they work so well together. Sure, they exchange barbs and insults, but they’re pretty much equals in everything, while also being complete opposites. Dipshit. Making me wait this long. I grab the front of his shirt and haul him inside. He’s laughing when my lips land on his.
I also think Linden Bell is my new favorite author when it comes to writing spice. Most sex scenes just blend together after a while when you read as much as I do, but I still remember scenes from Sebastian (fondly, lol), and there’s definitely a couple of scenes in Bellamy that I won’t forget anytime soon, either. I’m thoroughly impressed by how the author manages to show so much intimacy and romance through (really hot) smut, but they pull it off every time. Even while the characters are hate-boinking. It’s so refreshing. The fact that he curses at me while trying to figure out why I’m crying is so quintessentially Noel that I laugh out loud.
I would definitely recommend this book. It’s ...more
Book safety, content warnings, and tropes & tags down below. I wanted to feel him still inside me for days when he’d look back and regret this nightBook safety, content warnings, and tropes & tags down below. I wanted to feel him still inside me for days when he’d look back and regret this night.
I don’t really know what came over me when I picked up this ARC, but I think my brain saw the ‘childhood crush’, ‘age gap’ and ‘boxer/trainer’ tropes and I must’ve blacked out or something to completely ignore the dreaded ‘second chance’. But I’m glad it happened. I didn’t realize this book would contain both the first and second chance, so it was definitely more relationship-angsty than I would normally go for, but I was so freaking invested in these characters that I couldn’t put it down. I really needed to see them get that second chance. I realize that all of that didn’t necessarily sound positive, but I enjoyed the book a lot. I dated now and then, but they weren’t my Jack. I understood I had an obsession, but I didn’t give a shit. It was hard to push him out of my life when he was in it, day in and day out.
Both MCs were definitely flawed, but they weren’t cruel at heart, even if they did hurt each other at different moments. When one MC has been in love with and pining for the same man for 9 years, and the other is still hung up on the ex boyfriend who never loved him back, you know it’s going to hurt a little (a lot). Happiness in Fergs was as fleeting as a last breath. If you didn’t look quickly enough, you’d miss it.
I was so happy for these men when they finally reached a healthier space individually and together, and I’m glad therapy was a part of it. This next part might be a little spoilery, so I’m gonna hide it: (view spoiler)[ I’m also very happy about the author not making Fergs’ other relationship in the book a graphic one. They kiss, but nothing else is on-page. I don’t think I could’ve handled that. It wasn’t added just to make it angstier, but showed how he really did try to move on and reach a better headspace. (hide spoiler)] I was definitely reading outside of my comfort zone for this one, but I don’t regret it. It was entertaining, and I couldn’t put it down even though it was a bit heavy on the relationship angst for me, as well as my least favorite trope being a big part of the book. I think that’s a good sign. Jack was a part of my life, regardless. There was no running from him. I’d have to continuously face what I could never have for the rest of my life.
Blanket spoiler warning ⬇️
⚠️ Tropes & tags ⚠️ Age gap, second chance, pining, boxer/manager, anger issues, best friends to lovers, hurt/comfort, slow burn (after the first hookup)
⚠️⚠️ Content warning ⚠️⚠️ Grief Homophobia Binge drinking Graphic violence Attempted murder Explicit sexual content Mentions of past murder (parents) Internalized homophobia (side character)
⚠️⚠️⚠️ Book safety ⚠️⚠️⚠️ Cheating: No OM drama: Yes. One MC starts a relationship with someone else after the MCs sleep together. The ‘first’ and second chance are both shown in the book. The MC and the other boyfriend kiss on-page, but nothing more. Third-act breakup: Not really POV: 1st person, dual POV Strict roles or versatile: Versatile Every time Jack touched me, I was zapped with longing and need, followed by a wave of depression. I had been in love with him since I was fifteen years old, showing up at the underground fights with Dad. Jack had been thirty-one at the time and way out of my age range and league, but I pined after him anyway. He was the very reason I knew I was gay. He was my first crush. My forever crush.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review....more
Book safety, content warnings, and tropes & tags down below. Attraction was one thing, and attractive he was, but personal space was also a thing, aBook safety, content warnings, and tropes & tags down below. Attraction was one thing, and attractive he was, but personal space was also a thing, and apparently, Connor Telford had no sense of it.
I had an incredibly good time reading White Noise. I loved both MCs the same amount, which is honestly rare. They were both so well written, and the entire book was witty and smart from the first to the last page. I really love Sophia Soames’ writing style. It’s incredibly british and dry, it’s laugh-out-loud funny in places, and just feels very real. If you read this book or have read her previous work, you’ll know what I mean. Matt. OK. There was something weird with Matt. Whenever I spent time with him, I behaved like a creep. I was constantly touching him. His face. His arms. And the things that came out of my mouth were totally off the wall.
I’m not one who usually thinks a lot about spice, other than ‘that was spicy’, but the intimacy and sex scenes in this book was a delight. The characters’ personalities still came through, they had fun and laughed (which was a treat to read), and their desperation and love for each other really shone through. “You need to start wearing your own clothes, Con. We’re not the same size.”
It’s always nice to end a book and feel like it wasn’t missing anything. It delivered on everything I wanted along the way. The MCs made an instant connection, without being able to explain it immediately. They were definitely codependent, but I happen to love that. It wasn’t toxic in any way; the boys just needed each other. I loved it so much. Highly recommend if you want something witty with the sweetest lovestory. “I snuck into his flat and crawled into his bed in the middle of the night because I couldn’t bear the thought of not sleeping next to him.”
Blanket spoiler warning ⬇️
⚠️ Tropes & tags ⚠️ TV actor School teacher Codependency Friends to lovers Bisexual awakening Hurt/comfort Virgin MC
⚠️⚠️ Content warning ⚠️⚠️ Explicit sexual content Vomiting Brief acting scene that can be perceived as assault
⚠️⚠️⚠️ Book safety ⚠️⚠️⚠️ Cheating: No OM drama: No. Con films sex/kissing scenes for work, but it’s only work. He kisses his best friend/co-star off-set once, but only as friends. Third-act breakup: No POV: 1st person, dual POV Strict roles or versatile: Versatile “Come on,” I said, taking the flowers from him. “In you come.” I sounded like my granny, and not in a good way. Next, I’d be calling him poppet and force-feeding him stale sweets from the eighteenth century.
“He’s just a friend!” I snapped. “A good friend who's been helping me out.” “I’m sure he has,” Peter murmured. “Ohh!” Zara nodded knowingly. “That kind of friend then. The helpful kind.” Cue laughter. I was tempted to look around for a hidden camera.
“Come here,” I said and towed him over to the sofa. I got my suit jacket off and threw it on the floor, then tugged at him until he sat next to me. I’d only intended to initiate a friendly chat about where we both stood. Instead, he pretty much plonked himself on top of me and snuggled his face into my shoulder. I wasn’t complaining. Not at all. I hugged him, stroking my hands up and down his back.
You could be an award-winning actor all you wanted; it still didn’t mean you’d magically find parking....more
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I was entertained by this book and invested in the story the whole way through, which is aBook safety, content warnings, and tropes & tags down below.
I was entertained by this book and invested in the story the whole way through, which is always a good sign. I thought it was really neat how it started with the MCs being younger, showing us defining moments in their lives that would shape the people they eventually became. Definitely different from how it usually goes. It wasn’t drawn out, and the MCs never met while they were younger, but a few chapters giving us an idea of who they were and the struggles they would deal with as adults. My silence certainly made everyone happy at the expense of my own. Little threads of happiness were slowly plucked out of me, leaving me an unraveled mess who looked fine on the outside, yet depressed on the inside. It didn’t take me long to figure out that denying your identity could be detrimental to your well-being, but the fear was too much to push me forward. Instead, I lived in Purgatory.
It was also nice to read about two men who actually wanted domestic bliss. They were both looking for relationships, and both wanted something good and stable. I’ve read too many books with MCs who think murder is the only thing worse than commitment. Both MCs pasts end up coming back to cause problems (who could’ve seen that coming?), and it was a little sad, and a little bit of action, which suited me fine after reading a long ass book with character driven plot only. I’d told Bria about a crush, though I didn’t say that my crush was a gorgeous, five foot seven inches, tattooed Latino man with thick dark curls and a smile to die for… when he wasn’t scowling at me. When he smiled, it lit up his entire face, making him twice as gorgeous.
I’m not sure how I feel about giving the raging homophobe a ‘sort of’ redemption ARC, but maybe I’m just not a forgiving person. All in all, I was invested in the characters and wanted them to get a good HEA, which I wholly believe they did. The epilogue made me smile. To anyone outside, looking in, we probably looked ridiculous. A giant of a man being cuddled and held by a smaller one.
Blanket spoiler warning ⬇️
⚠️ Tropes & tags ⚠️ Nurse x2 Size difference Interracial relationship Foster dads Hurt/comfort Past trauma Very mild mafia element Opposites attract Closeted MC Frenemies to lovers
⚠️⚠️ Content warning ⚠️⚠️ Explicit sexual content Homophobia Graphic violence Underage drinking and smoking Arson Murder Parent death Sibling abuse Attempted murder Betrayal (side character) Mentions of racism Hate crime (beating) Brief mention of sexual assault (side character)
⚠️⚠️⚠️ Book safety ⚠️⚠️⚠️ Cheating: No OM drama: No. One MC is kissed by a past friend, but it is not reciprocated. Third-act breakup: Yes POV: 1st person, dual POV Strict roles or versatile: Versatile...more
Book safety, content warnings, and tropes & tags down below. Even though he’d forget me… forget everything we were, I didn’t want him to know the fuBook safety, content warnings, and tropes & tags down below. Even though he’d forget me… forget everything we were, I didn’t want him to know the full extent of my suffering.
Man, what a brilliant freaking book. I loved it. Will reread. Hope it’s released on audio one day.
This was a completely different take on the ‘second chance’ trope, and it was heartbreaking. At the same time it was beautiful and romantic, with two well written MCs I thought I’d known pain. Torture. Longing. But none of that compared to having Leo in my arms and him not knowing who I was. Who he was to me.
It can for sure be read as a standalone, but there were a lot of characters to keep track of. The cast from The Reckless Damned series were all involved, as well as loads of new characters being introduced to set up the rest of this series. I have only read book 1 of the previous series, and although it was fine, I’m sure it would’ve been easier and even more enjoyable if I had finished that series first.
Other than that though (and it wasn’t really a problem), it was brilliant. A touch of action, a heartwarming second chance, and a unique paranormal world set in the UK. I am also super impressed by the work that must’ve gone into making the timeline and plot work in this book, as it basically spans 4000 years (most of them are not on page lmao). You could tell the characters history were well thought out. What if Leo looked at me with disgust? Rejected me again? Thought I was stalking him? I mean… I was, but I didn’t want him to know that.
Sebastian, the human-hating, super duper dickish vampire is up next, and I believe his love interest will be Matty, the tiny sweetheart, the adorable makeup-wearing little brother of Leo. I can’t wait, honestly. The pieces clicked into place. This was Toby’s cousin, the hacker Danny had told me about. The one who was incredibly useful, but as Danny had put it, an utter cunt. “You’re Sebastian.”
Blanket spoiler warning ⬇️
⚠️ Tropes & tags ⚠️ Second chance Paranormal Fallen angel The grim reaper Fated mates UK setting Firefighter Jealous MC Sexual awakening
⚠️⚠️ Content warning ⚠️⚠️ Explicit sexual content Death of a loved one (on page) Grief Torture Violence Unknown illness Injury Detailed situation with fire Assault (side character, off page) Speciesism
⚠️⚠️⚠️ Book safety ⚠️⚠️⚠️ Cheating: No OM drama: No Third-act breakup: No POV: 1st person, dual POV Strict roles or versatile: Versatile “God, it’s quiet today.” Danny’s statement had me and every other fucker on the crew groaning. “Why would you say that?”
“What happened to the angel and his human?” I wanted to pull him into my lap. To hold him in my arms as I recounted the worst memory I held.
He sighed again. Honestly, if we didn’t have a clock ticking, I’d be tempted to ask him if he was suffering from low oxygen levels.
Ferry glared at me. “Are you saying I’m stupid enough to get caught? It’s only a little bit of murder. I could do that in my sleep.”...more
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I got the audiobook, so no quotes this time around. The audiobook was very good, and I am Book safety, content warnings, and tropes & tags down below.
I got the audiobook, so no quotes this time around. The audiobook was very good, and I am super impressed by the narrator, Jon Curtis. First time I’ve heard him, and it was delightful.
This book is marketed as a second chance romance, which, I guess? It’s more like a ‘second chance at first love’ situation, considering they were never together the first time around, just caught some feelings. I wouldn’t have read it if it was proper second chance lol. That trope is not my friend. I really enjoyed the situation in this book, though! It was sweet, low angst, romantic, suspenseful, and hot (big and buff law enforcement dude who’s ...more
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4.5 rounded up Maybe he was right. I was a waste of space and that was why he didn't treBook safety, content warnings, and tropes & tags down below.
4.5 rounded up Maybe he was right. I was a waste of space and that was why he didn't treat me the way he used to. Was I failing him? Bringing this on myself? Yes, that had to be right. I was letting him down, and I deserved every slap, kick, unkind word, and punishment.
There’s just something about Daddy/boy or Daddy/little books that makes me feel warm and safe while reading. This book is not a sweet and fluffy read, though. It is sad, brutal, and so very real. I have read several books with victims of domestic abuse, but this one was quite unique in that the abused MC is still with his abuser for a while in the book. We get to see the trauma, him getting away from it, and the ups and downs from the aftermath of that abuse. I was in the mood for a fluffy relationship, and even though this wasn’t that with the problems the MCs had individually and when trying to figure out their relationship, it was too good to put down and pick up something else. The back of his hand connecting to my face wasn’t new, but it hurt worse in the moments when all I needed was love.
After being groomed as a kid and then staying in an abusive relationship for 14 years, it is understandable that he went through a lot of emotions, different coping mechanisms and problems after. It was lovely to see Branson being there for him every step of the way, no matter how hard and in what way Layne pushed him, even when they didn’t quite know what they were to each other yet. I’m not usually a fan of that sort of back-and-forth, ‘what are we?’ sort of situation, but Layne needed a good friend most of all (and therapy), and he got both. "Are you... going small on me?" Layne blushed. "I-I can't help it. It's been so long, Daddy." He looked up at me with big, blue eyes and I melted. "I wanna be baby." I chuckled. "Then baby you shall be, princess.
(Btw, Layne regresses to 4/5 years old, not actually baby age)
I mentioned that this book wasn’t fluffy, and while that is true, there was thankfully a few lighthearted and fluffier moments, especially when Layne was in little space. I thought those scenes were written beautifully, and I am looking forward to exploring more of this series and author. Branson grinned. "I thought you liked who I was as a person." I rolled my eyes. "I tolerate you." Mouth falling open, Branson stared at me. "Layne!"
"Daddyyyy." Layne called me in a song-song voice. "You're not paying attention to me."
I think my favorite part of the book was getting to see Layne’s personality shine through once he trusted the people around him again.
Blanket spoiler warning ⬇️
⚠️ Tropes & tags ⚠️ Daddy kink, age play (no ABDL), domestic abuse (not between MCs), strangers to friends to lovers, boss/employee, size difference, younger daddy/older boy, sex in little-space, safe-wording, slow burn, stalking
⚠️⚠️ Content warning ⚠️⚠️ Explicit sexual content Domestic abuse Emotional, physical and sexual abuse Self harm (skin picking) Mentions of past grooming Anxiety attacks Non-con/rape (off-page, not detailed) *none of the abuse occurs between MCs
⚠️⚠️⚠️ Book safety ⚠️⚠️⚠️ Cheating: No OM drama: Yes. Abusive and stalking ex. Layne tries (unsuccessfully) to find a hookup, mostly to get a reaction from Branson. Third-act breakup: No POV: 1st person, dual POV Strict roles or versatile: Versatile...more
Book safety, content warnings, and tropes & tags down below. He lit up the evening sky like we’d switched to day,
✮ ✮ ✮ ✮ .5 I think I smiled all theBook safety, content warnings, and tropes & tags down below. He lit up the evening sky like we’d switched to day,
✮ ✮ ✮ ✮ .5 I think I smiled all the way through when reading this. Both MCs have a couple of insecurities they deal with, but this is super low angst. Rhys is quite neurotic, but the sweetest person and most adoring dad. He loves his best friend (baby mama), but wants someone to love all of him without them thinking he’s ‘too much’. I even managed to tear up a little but because of those kinds of thoughts. I tried to force a grin that came out more like a grimace as I clutched down on my nuts. Kid had fucking good aim.
Cole… Cole, Cole, Cole. I want one of those. Homebody, thick and hairy, sweet, and a little rough in bed? *coughs* yes please. I loved how he wasn’t quite sure how he felt about kids at first, and he was slightly intimidated by the thought of dating a dad, but toddler Sammy won him over pretty quickly. Rhys and Cole complemented each other well, I thought. They gave space when needed, and pushed when the other MC needed the help. It was a treat to watch them date, starting with a bit of a disaster miscommunication that thankfully ended well, and eventually fall in love. If you want something sweet and low angst, I would definitely recommend. If my own best friend couldn’t hack it, then who would?
Blanket spoiler warning ⬇️
⚠️ Tropes & tags ⚠️ Strangers to lovers, size difference, single dad, funny miscommunication, mild primal kink, restraints, love bites, marking, board games, trivia nights, star wars love
⚠️⚠️ Content warning ⚠️⚠️ Explicit sexual content Mentions of parent death Mentions of car accident and injury (side character)
⚠️⚠️⚠️ Book safety ⚠️⚠️⚠️ Cheating: No OM drama: No Third-act breakup: No POV: 1st person, dual POV Strict roles or versatile: Versatile...more
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The start of this book reminded me so much of Paladin by Onley James (which I *love*), soBook safety, content warnings, and tropes & tags down below.
The start of this book reminded me so much of Paladin by Onley James (which I *love*), so I was completely hooked and devoured the first 50% while I should have been sleeping. I think Luca is super precious, and surprisingly well-balanced, considering all the abuse he endured. If you read and liked Paladin, I would recommend this one, as long as the triggers won’t bother you. It’s dark and detailed. «I loved him because I had no other choice. He was my caregiver and my master, and I was always desperate for his approval. Yet, I hated him, too. Hated that he didn’t always want me. Hated him for hurting me when I tried so hard to be a good boy.» This and other things like it, detailing the psychological impact of the abuse, made me cry a lot.
Dante wasn’t abused in the same sense that Luca was, but he definitely didn’t escape his childhood unscathed. He wasn’t very nice to Luca at first, but that little obsessive man wouldn’t let him push him away, lol. Their early dynamic when Dante was trying to get rid of/let go of Luca, while Luca was oblivious and completely sure that Dante was his Angel come to rescue him, was my favorite part of the book. I only wish that dynamic lasted a bit longer. I will always be a fan of action and suspense, but I missed seeing interactions like they had early on. «I rushed back to my car before I changed my mind and looked back once more to see him looking at me with tears spilling down his eyes, and holding his rabbit close to his face. Not once did he complain or come after me. He just stood there, silently begging for me to come back.»
Speaking of action and suspense, I thought Dante was pretty shit at being an assassin, lmao. At first I thought it was refreshing how he wasn’t indestructible and perfect, or never taking a hit or having a close call, but that eventually happened in pretty much every action sequence, lol. A little refreshing, and a little funny. He was still a big badass, though. «After he unlocked the door to his house, I put my hand in his and looked up at him again. His pale green eyes grew so wide, and he shook me off. I tried not to be hurt and hoped he would love me soon.»
As I mentioned, the start of this had me hooked real good, and I adored the first half of the book. Unfortunately, the editing and proofing suffered a bit later on in the book, which definitely took me out of the story a good bit. I wish I could just not notice, sometimes. I would still highly recommend the book.
Gonna mix it up and throw in a not-so-good quote, lol. Enjoy. «I felt full of angel fingers with their magical touch […]»
Blanket spoiler warning ⬇️
⚠️ Tropes & tags ⚠️ Rescued from trafficking/sex slave, private org. of assassins, age gap, size difference, trauma, scarred, graphic, revenge mission, action and suspense, MC in captivity for 11 years,
⚠️⚠️ Content warning ⚠️⚠️ Explicit sexual content Graphic violence Torture Murder Rape (detailed, past) Human trafficking Sex slavery Death of a past partner
⚠️⚠️⚠️ Book safety ⚠️⚠️⚠️ Cheating: No OM drama: No Third-act breakup: No POV: 1st person, dual POV Strict roles or versatile: Versatile...more
Book safety, content warnings, and tropes & tags down below. 4.5 stars rounded up He rolls his eyes and smiles, showing off his deep dimples that IBook safety, content warnings, and tropes & tags down below. 4.5 stars rounded up He rolls his eyes and smiles, showing off his deep dimples that I’m sure have helped him get away with murder his entire life.
I read the third book in this series first (thankfully they’re standalones), and even though I loved it and was planning on reading Cali Boy sometime, I wasn’t actually planning on reading it so soon. Alas, Charli Meadow’s writing is just so good and I love the tropes, the possessiveness and protectiveness the MCs show, and just the overall vibe. I think it’s very easy to get hooked on this author’s writing. I am now gleefully looking forward to reading the second book. I gulp so loud I almost choke on my own tongue. I’m positive he heard it echoing like a fucking foghorn in this otherwise silent room. Ass dimples. He has ass dimples.
There’s some dark stuff that happens in the book, and the characters have had some trauma previously, but it doesn’t read dark. I found it uplifting and made me optimistic for the boys’ future. I generally avoid books with very young MCs because I have a hard time picturing them actually staying together, but I think Charli did a fantastic job with making me believe in their future. An adorable epilogue certainly helped. There’s just something about the hurt/comfort trope that really hits the spot for me every time, and I love seeing sad boys get their HEA. Charli Meadows has expertly nailed those two things (and loads of other things), and has a direct line to my hurt/comfort-loving heart. “Thanks, Gabe,” Ollie says politely, and I swear to God he better call me Daddy before he ever calls my father Dad.
I would have loved to see a bit more of the relationship development between Finn and his dad, as that dynamic was quite important to the characters, but I’m glad we got a glimpse at how it all turns out, atleast.
Oliver truly was a ray of sunshine to Finn’s grumpy, but Finn was complete putty in his Ollie’s hands. ...more