If you're looking for a slow-burn, angst-filled romance with addictive tension, this first book in the Tangled Hearts series is for you.
The h4.5 Stars
If you're looking for a slow-burn, angst-filled romance with addictive tension, this first book in the Tangled Hearts series is for you.
The hero, Holden Knight, a ruthless venture capitalist on the verge of becoming the majority owner of the heroine’s family business, is the epitome of arrogance and cold calculation. At first, his hard exterior and relentless drive to win at any cost make him seem almost villainous. But as the layers of his character are peeled back, revealing deep-seated wounds and complex motivations, I found myself rooting for him. He’s not just the typical cold-hearted businessman; he’s a man driven by past pain, and it’s this complexity that makes him so compelling.
On the other side, the heroine, Rowan Rothschild, is a force to be reckoned with. Sassy, defiant, and fiercely loyal to her family legacy, she refuses to let anyone dictate her fate—least of all those who threaten everything she holds dear. Her determination and refusal to back down, even as the walls close in on her, make her a protagonist you can’t help but admire. Despite feeling betrayed by those closest to her, she never lets that break her spirit.
The tension between Holden and Rowan is palpable, and their dynamic is electric. The banter and verbal sparring are some of the highlights of the story—every conversation is laced with sharp wit, underlying attraction, and a battle for control. Their relationship unfolds in a deliciously slow burn and an undeniable pull that neither can ignore. Despite being on opposing sides of the corporate war, the chemistry between them simmers with an intensity that had me eagerly turning the pages.
What I loved most about this story was the psychological cat-and-mouse game between the two leads. Rowan’s struggle to figure out Holden’s true intentions, while he masterfully manipulates the situation to his advantage, creates a constant sense of tension and suspense. Holden is chaos incarnate—just when you think you’ve got him figured out, he throws another wrench into the mix.
The slow build of attraction, mixed with high-stakes tension and emotional depth, makes for a story that’s as satisfying as it is intense. I loved how this book made me feel, waiting for things to happen. To be honest, I did not see the cliffhanger coming, because, yes, it is the first book in a series. Now I can't wait for the conclusion to this addictive story!
My honest review is based on an advanced reader copy of this book....more
I liked this story and enjoyed the unraveling of the intrigue. The author did a great job in keeping the pace steady, I was surprised by the 3,5 stars
I liked this story and enjoyed the unraveling of the intrigue. The author did a great job in keeping the pace steady, I was surprised by the dark twists in the plot. The characters were relatable and I definitely got invested in their story, written from multiple points of view. Their chemistry is crackling with conflict and connection. I really liked the heroine, Pepper, she is a strong female character, smart and witty. She has gone through plenty of rough patches, she knows what desperation feels like. The hero, Auggie, is resourceful, sexy, determined and protective. He is genuine and cares deeply for Pepper and her adorable daughter, Juno. I loved how both Pepper and Auggie were strong in the face of adversity.
My honest review is based on an advanced reader copy of this book....more
I’ll be honest, it took me a while to read the first chapters of this book. I was not sure I was going to like this story. After a few chapters3 Stars
I’ll be honest, it took me a while to read the first chapters of this book. I was not sure I was going to like this story. After a few chapters, I got used to the storytelling and the book flew by.
Jackson Pierce and Harley Jameson grew up together and this first part of their story focuses on their childhood, from little kid to teenager. From the start, they show a lot of animosity towards one another and yet, each secretly suppresses their affection for the other. They bicker every time they are in the presence of one another and it always ends with them at each other’s throats. Hate is a constant in their troubled relationship. Yet, there is a thin line between love and hate. The dialogues are quite good but the same argument seemed to go on for too long. They both have a fiery temperament. There were some cute scenes and a few funny lines but overall this story was rather sad. Jackson mourns the family he lost and pushes everybody away.
Both characters are entertaining and it’s probably why this book was so addictive. I’m really looking forward to the next part of their story.
My honest review is based on an advanced reader copy of this book....more
This novella is a sexy addition to Nikki and Damien Stark’s story. It’s always such a pleasure to catch up with these characters. They really are kindThis novella is a sexy addition to Nikki and Damien Stark’s story. It’s always such a pleasure to catch up with these characters. They really are kindred spirits. Their love radiates off the pages, the intensity of their feelings is their strength.
The story picks up where « Damien », the fifth full-length installment in the Stark saga, left off. So, obviously, it is best to read “Damien” before starting this book, to understand its premise.
Damien feels out of control after his daughter’s kidnapping. He feels he has failed his family and he is frustrated by his helplessness. Nikki’s world has turned dark and dangerous, some ghosts of her past are back. They both need an escape and a place of healing to be able to face their fears. Their chemistry is as intense as ever. Damien’s perceptiveness tugged at my heartstrings.
I love these characters, and I hope that Julie Kenner will revisit them again and again! This novella had a perfect combination of sexiness and sweetness!
My honest review is based on an advanced reader copy of this book....more
Cruel Legacy is the last installment in the trilogy. Once again, the story and plot lines had me hooked instantly. I love how this story deals with psCruel Legacy is the last installment in the trilogy. Once again, the story and plot lines had me hooked instantly. I love how this story deals with psychological issues and the way people affect one another, through love, pain or betrayal.
Natalie goes through so much, yet she is never weak or defeated. She doesn't let her emotions cloud her judgment. She stands up for herself and she doesn't let herself be a victim. Instead, she owns up to her mistakes and she takes responsibility for them. She has lost her writing career because of Lewis and Katherine and she sets out to take revenge from them. She wants them to be held accountable for their actions. And in this, her relationship with Penn could be collateral damage. Penn has every intention of protecting Natalie, but his affection for Lewis and Katherine is real, they are his family. Despite the pain and the anger, Natalie still needs Penn. They have unfinished business.
The plot was interesting and addictive and I liked the fact that the characters were quite complex and didn't always do what you expected. The chemistry between them is intense, they are a perfect match. There is so much pain and beauty in their relationship.
In this last part of the trilogy, Katherine and Lewis come full circle and I loved how the author created them so that we could see utter selfishness and cruelty mixed with a bit of humanity in between to give us complex characters.
It is very easy to become completely engrossed in this story, and that is exactly what I enjoy about a good book! It sucks you in deeper with every word.
My honest review is based on an advanced reader copy of this book. ...more
This new series is a spin-off of the Eternity Springs series. It is set in Redemption, a small town in Texas. The story is light-hearted for 3.5 Stars
This new series is a spin-off of the Eternity Springs series. It is set in Redemption, a small town in Texas. The story is light-hearted for the most part. The novel also has serious issues that the main characters must deal with in order to move forward. This author has an amazing ability of creating not just characters or plot lines but communities and extended families. This explains why there are a lot of secondary characters in this novel, some new, some already familiar if you have read the Eternity Springs series.
Jackson McBride is a gifted songwriter but he hasn’t written anything since his divorce and he is depressed by his creative dry spell. His ruthless ex-wife has dragged him through hell and she has recently separated him from his six year old daughter. He is only allowed to speak to her on the phone. His relocation to a small town Redemption in Texas brings him hope a new chapter in his life has started. He has inherited Enchanted Canyon, a very special place, unspoiled and underdeveloped.
Caroline Carruthers is a widow who has found her way to Redemption. She intends to make a home for herself in the idyllic small town that calls to her and calms her troubled spirit. What I like most about Caroline is her caring and thoughtful nature. She noticed Jackson being depressed and helped him instead of letting him be.
The characters of Caroline and Jackson were strong and layered. They both had issues that they carried into their relationship. These issues were handled with sensitivity. I loved the dynamic between these two characters, nothing was forced or rushed.
Jackson's family also has a nice spot in this story, and I wish there had been more of them. Overall, this was an entertaining read that can be read as a standalone.
My honest review is based on an advanced reader copy of this book provided by the publisher. ...more
You know this feeling you get when a story you loved to pieces ends and you're left overwhelmed with happiness because it had everything you ever wantYou know this feeling you get when a story you loved to pieces ends and you're left overwhelmed with happiness because it had everything you ever wanted, yet a part of you feels empty because it seems as if no other book could ever compare? Well, that's the way I feel right now!
This second part of the Regret Duet had it all and I devoured it almost in one sitting! Suspenseful, thrilling, tender and emotional, it brings Willow and Caven’s story to a powerful climax. The connection between them was combustible, I totally loved the vibe these two had. And nothing prepared me for how the story unfolded, the plot twist was once again absolutely brilliant! So, of course, I won’t spoil it for you.
We get to know more about Willow and Hadley’s relationship and the aftermath of the trauma that forever changed their life. Willow’s desire to spend time with Rosie and be a part of her life trumps her fears and her remorse for lying to Caven and breaking his trust. She is a strong and pure heroine. Caven is hurt and bitter, but he is convinced Willow only wants the best for Rosie. The haunting events Caven went through slowly unfolds in this book. His journey is pretty powerful and poignant. The characters are layered and feel authentic, so you can't help but being drawn to them, drawn to the story itself.
Aly Martinez really made me feel and live the depth of emotion and chemistry between Willow and Caven. I could relate to them, I was broken with them and I healed with them. The Regret Duet is an amazing story and I highly recommend it!
My honest opinion is based on an advanced reader copy of this book. ...more
This book is the conclusion of Shaelyn and Garrett's love story that started in “On the Way Down”. Together, they had everything, but somehow it all wThis book is the conclusion of Shaelyn and Garrett's love story that started in “On the Way Down”. Together, they had everything, but somehow it all went terribly wrong. Heartbreak might be the perfect reset button for their lives, a chance for a new beginning.
Shaelyn is struggling with feelings of guilt, she believes she is responsible for her baby’s death. She refuses Garrett’s help and won’t allow herself to feel their love for each other. She tries to escape her pain, lock her emotions up and evade reality. She has insisted on a divorce, but being away from Garrett is painful to her.
There is nothing Garrett wouldn’t do for Shaelyn, he is convinced that some things are just worth fighting for. But before anything can progress between them, the past has to be considered and then put away, focusing on the present and what they can mean to each other in the future. I was thrilled they found each other again. But I guess I would have liked it to have had more punch, this second part of their story felt so rushed. From the start, Garrett shined. He is sexy, considerate, kind and down to earth. He is devoted to Shaelyn and his love is so deep.
The Retake Duet is a romance that is beautiful, poignant and takes readers on an emotional journey. Garrett and Shaelyn’s road to happiness was not an easy one, but their love overcame tragedy to get a second chance.
My honest review is based on an advanced reader copy of this book. ...more
This book was pure awesomeness. From beginning to end, it captivated me. I found myself having to take huge deep breaths because the angst was just soThis book was pure awesomeness. From beginning to end, it captivated me. I found myself having to take huge deep breaths because the angst was just so intense at certain points. It’s such a soulful story, I felt every deep emotion. There was excitement, anxiety, happiness and the depths of despair.
This story spans over several years. I liked how it started off in the past and then dove into Caven and Hadley’s complicated relationship and connection. The author really makes us feel and live the depth of emotion and chemistry between the two. I was drawn into these characters instantly and found them to be unique and interesting. My heart broke for them over and over again.
Caven’s life changed when he became a single dad in an instant. He doesn’t know a thing about babies, but he wants to be a good father. Rosie is his life and he always makes sure she knows how loved she is, despite her mother’s absence.
Caven captured my heart, one of my favorite parts of this book is how the author dives so deep into his mind, exposing everything bare for us to see. The way his character transformed and transcended was beautiful. Hadley is a threat and he hates her at first. She wants to be involved in Rosie’s life and he is assuming the worst. He doesn’t trust her motives or her ability to care for a child.
Caven and Hadley have a connection, they have both experienced the worst darkness, they are survivors. The chemistry between them is really amazing and there are a lot of sweet moments with the adorable Rosie. All of it was just perfection. Hadley is exactly what Caven and Rosie needed, she is generous, kind and hilarious. She is a strong and pure heroine whose world has been torn apart by a mass murder.
Caven battles with his emotions to let go of his anger and anxiety, and the struggle is real. But Hadley always finds a way to touch him. After a short time, a forbidden romance blooms. The sexual tension, emotional connection, the mystery, the tormented characters all add up to make this an absolutely brilliant book.
The plot twist was an interesting and surprising addition that led to one heck of a reveal. I always love when a story can throw a curve ball that I didn't see coming but I'm very happy that wait for book two will soon be over!...more
This series has come to its conclusion and I loved it! Mona and Abram are beautiful characters inside and out and reading their journey gave me4 Stars
This series has come to its conclusion and I loved it! Mona and Abram are beautiful characters inside and out and reading their journey gave me butterflies. The heat between them is enough to melt the ice but their sweet romance just warms your heart. In Abram, Penny Reid has created a dream man, he was just a wonderful hero to get to know and I really wish he was real! Mona is a sensitive woman who knows what she wants from life but she is also a realist, she wants a family, stability and normalcy. And yet, Abram’s life is anything but normal. I enjoyed every page of Mona and Abram’s story as I watched them fall in love and take the time to discover one another.
When I'm looking for a relaxing read, I know I can't go wrong with one of Penny Reid’s books. I love her sense of humor and she always makes me laugh out loud. Her characters each have something quirky that makes them so unique. I highly recommend this series, that should be read in order....more
Cruel Fortune is the second installment in the Cruel series. Once again, the story and plot lines had me hooked instantly. I love how this story dealsCruel Fortune is the second installment in the Cruel series. Once again, the story and plot lines had me hooked instantly. I love how this story deals with psychological issues and the way people affect one another, through love, pain or betrayal. This story is a slice of life that isn’t afraid to go dark, with complex characters that are not idealized.
One year later, Natalie is back in New York. She has released a bestseller under a pen name. Penn has let her walk out of his life after she found out about the bet, thinking he didn’t care for her. He hates being the one who brought her pain and he is desperate to make amends.
Lewis Warren is Natalie’s book publisher and he has been able to twist her thoughts, to bring down the barriers she had put up for her security. Lewis is a flirt and one of the five Upper East Siders who hurt her deeply. She knows she should stay away. And yet, he has helped her find her way back to writing. Lewis is a mysterious character and his confusing actions had me on my toes. I loved how his personality and motives were slowly revealed throughout the story. Natalie is a character I found very easy to relate to, but nevertheless I felt that she was a bit passive and naïve. Throughout the story, she struggles with who she can and can’t trust.
I loved the way the anticipation and suspense was building in this installment. It is very easy to become completely engrossed in this story, and that is exactly what I enjoy about a good book! It sucks you in deeper with every word. I will be anxiously waiting for the final installment in this compelling series!
My honest review is based on an advanced reader copy of this book. ...more
The storyline is full of mystery, deception and intensity, with a dark and sexy tone.
The main characters have a quite dysfunctional relations4.5 Stars
The storyline is full of mystery, deception and intensity, with a dark and sexy tone.
The main characters have a quite dysfunctional relationship that starts out rocky and toxic, but that was to be expected with Celia Warren, a character from the Fixed series that I loved to hate. Edward Fasbender is ambitious, calculating, elusive and enigmatic, this character was confusing me from the start. Manipulative and ruthless, he exudes power, control and dominance. The objective of his relationship with Celia is obvious, but his real motives are mysterious. It is definitely incredibly difficult to discern whether one should be rooting for him or not which causes huge amount of internal conflict and angst.
Celia and Edward’s relationship feels like a negotiation, and Celia is clearly at a disadvantage. She is drawn to Edward like a moth to a flame and he likes to unsettle her. He pushes her buttons, she is alarmed by his cruelty.
This sexy story draws you in with its unpredictable, fast-paced and addictive plot. The leads may be messed up to the highest degree, but they're compelling and human. The psychological interplay between them was fascinating. Once again, Laurelin Paige’s riveting and edgy storytelling took my breath away! She knows how to bring a riveting story and intriguing characters to life. I will be anxiously waiting for the next installment in this intriguing story!
My honest review is based on an advanced reader copy of this book. ...more
I loved Motion and after that heart-wrenching cliffhanger ending, I have been desperate to get my hands on the continuation of Mona and Abram’s story!I loved Motion and after that heart-wrenching cliffhanger ending, I have been desperate to get my hands on the continuation of Mona and Abram’s story!
I thought the first book was good but this book is just so much better. I adored the character development in this installment. Abram really surprised me, allowing his true self to shine through his barriers and revealing just how amazing he truly is. He has low tolerance for liars and he doesn’t play games, but the idea of revenge is repulsive to him. There are a lot of emotional and heartbreaking moments in this book. Abram’s trust has been broken and Mona has to make amends to give their past closure. Mona’s relationship with her sister has benefited from her deception, but she has paid a high price for it and she wants to do the right thing.
The tension between Mona and Abram is at an all-time high. However, balance is achieved with some swoon worthy moments and the characters’ intense chemistry. I was fully invested in their story, they are awesome characters and the way their relationship evolved was so well done. Honesty is now on the table and I loved the way they were able to work through their problems.
This story is gripping, beautiful and very addictive. I can't wait for the next installment. I need more Mona and Abram in my life !
With all the drama at the end of the last book, I couldn't wait to see how Meghan March would work everything out and I was not disappointed! I was onWith all the drama at the end of the last book, I couldn't wait to see how Meghan March would work everything out and I was not disappointed! I was once again captivated from page one. The conclusion of India and Forge’s story was compelling and had me on the edge of my seat most of the time. In the end, things played out exactly the way they needed to, taking into account that friends can become enemies, and enemies can become friends.
India’s world is tipped upside down, but she is ready to fight for the person who has become the center of her world. She is loyal and relentless, no matter what life throws at her she stays strong for those she loves. Forge’s determination is his salvation, but he is full of guilt about the past. Together these two have great chemistry and the desire to finally do the right thing. Their mutual love gives them the power to heal and reach for the life they both deserve. They really bring out the best in each other.
The conclusion of the Forge trilogy was intense, fast paced and utterly satisfying.
My honest review is based on an advanced reader copy of this book. ...more
This book had me cracking up from start to finish while swooning over the endearing hero and heroine. I love Penny Reid’s brand of humor, her biting wThis book had me cracking up from start to finish while swooning over the endearing hero and heroine. I love Penny Reid’s brand of humor, her biting wit and pitch perfect characterization. I particularly liked that the story is told through Mona’s narrative, as her likeable and brainiac personality really shines through this way. Her internal monologues were laugh out loud funny. This character lives with an undercurrent of discomfort in social situations because she's so wrapped up in her studies.
Mona has accepted to impersonate her twin sister, Lisa, for a week, but she is convinced nobody will buy her act. She has nothing in common with her sister, except her appearance.
Abram is Lisa’s sitter for a week and he doesn’t know the sisters well enough to tell the difference between them. Abram came across as an attractive, charming man. For some reason, he openly dislikes Lisa and Mona would like to live in an alternate reality where Abram would know who she really is. The story is chock full of Mona’s hilarious antics, inner thoughts and self-doubts. She has never allowed herself a crush, but Abram challenges her preconceived notions. She is very rational, but what she feels for him can’t be explained by logic. The chemistry between them is apparent right from the start of the book.
Cute, sexy and hilarious, this book is a breath of fresh air. The writing is wonderful and the story moves along at a nice pace. I found myself invested in Mona and Abram's story and I can’t wait for more.
I love it when a book keeps me at the edge of my seat, and the danger, excitement and romance tick all the right boxes for me. This story is a continuI love it when a book keeps me at the edge of my seat, and the danger, excitement and romance tick all the right boxes for me. This story is a continuation of Deal with the Devil. We met all of the players, good and bad, in the first book.
A dark past has molded Jericho Forge into the man he is today. He really is the quintessential romance leading man. Hot and sexy as hell, with a dark, painful and mysterious past that determines his actions and behavior, he is arrogant, manipulative and bossy, which is probably just a mask to hide his true feelings. I really wanted to know his story and I thought that India was a good match for him.
India is no damsel in distress, she is a ruthless strategist, focused, sharp and cunning. Her marriage to Jericho was a means to an end, but he took advantage of her temporary helplessness and she won’t give him the power to hurt her.
I loved watching India and Jericho’s story play out, wondering what was going to happen next. As with the previous book, the suspense and romance are beautifully balanced and I will be anxiously waiting for the next installment in the series!
My honest review is based on an advanced reader copy of this book. ...more
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