Insatiable Hunger by Yahrah St .John is the latest entry in the multi-authored Dynasties: Seven Sins series and features a ‘friends to lovers’ trope rInsatiable Hunger by Yahrah St .John is the latest entry in the multi-authored Dynasties: Seven Sins series and features a ‘friends to lovers’ trope romance.
Jessie Acosta is planning to do what her parents’ expect of her – marry Hugh O’Malley, the son of the family that helped them through the difficult time when her parents lost everything because of the actions of Vernon Lowell. At the helm of the Black Crescent Investment firm, he’d stolen the wealth of many local families and while the company had since made reparations and taken a new and better path, bitterness still remained for many including Jessie and her parents.
But she can’t deny that spending time with Ryan Hathaway, at one time a very close friend is becoming more and more appealing, especially after they reconnect at a school reunion. With her and Hugh on an official break of their long distance relationship, it’s easy to fall for Ryan’s charms and Ryan has made no secret of his feelings for her. But Ryan is being courted for the position of CEO at Black Crescent, a fact that can’t be ignored. Will Jessie let her head, or her heart decide their future?
There were aspects of this story I really liked and some that fell flat. Jessie is accomplished and smart, an associate at a law firm hoping to make partner. She’s definitely on equal footing with Ryan who works in investments. There’s believable chemistry between them that leads to some sexy scenes. Because she and Hugh were on an official break and debating whether to move forward with their relationship, it didn’t feel like she was cheating on him by spending time with Ryan and she does eventually make it clear with Hugh that they are over. I like that she realizes that she’s been letting her parents dictate her actions and that she’s ready to take control of her own life.
What I didn’t care for was there were several times that Jessie had the internal thoughts that Ryan had been overweight and now that he was thinner, she found him attractive. To me that came across as fat-shaming, and even later it’s also mentioned that Ryan’s father is now the picture of health having lost weight after being diagnosed with diabetes. Also Jessie is described as being a size 4, the same size as her roommate Becca and it just emphasizes the incorrect (for me) assumption that slim equals attractive.
The plot proceeds with Ryan and Jessie getting closer and then the issue of the CEO position comes to a head. There’s also some unexpected family drama that came out of nowhere! Ryan and Jessie get their happy ending and while this isn’t one of my favorites, fans of friends to lovers romances will find things to enjoy and I look forward to reading the next in the series.
A copy of this story was provided by the publisher.
Merged review:
Insatiable Hunger by Yahrah St .John is the latest entry in the multi-authored Dynasties: Seven Sins series and features a ‘friends to lovers’ trope romance.
Jessie Acosta is planning to do what her parents’ expect of her – marry Hugh O’Malley, the son of the family that helped them through the difficult time when her parents lost everything because of the actions of Vernon Lowell. At the helm of the Black Crescent Investment firm, he’d stolen the wealth of many local families and while the company had since made reparations and taken a new and better path, bitterness still remained for many including Jessie and her parents.
But she can’t deny that spending time with Ryan Hathaway, at one time a very close friend is becoming more and more appealing, especially after they reconnect at a school reunion. With her and Hugh on an official break of their long distance relationship, it’s easy to fall for Ryan’s charms and Ryan has made no secret of his feelings for her. But Ryan is being courted for the position of CEO at Black Crescent, a fact that can’t be ignored. Will Jessie let her head, or her heart decide their future?
There were aspects of this story I really liked and some that fell flat. Jessie is accomplished and smart, an associate at a law firm hoping to make partner. She’s definitely on equal footing with Ryan who works in investments. There’s believable chemistry between them that leads to some sexy scenes. Because she and Hugh were on an official break and debating whether to move forward with their relationship, it didn’t feel like she was cheating on him by spending time with Ryan and she does eventually make it clear with Hugh that they are over. I like that she realizes that she’s been letting her parents dictate her actions and that she’s ready to take control of her own life.
What I didn’t care for was there were several times that Jessie had the internal thoughts that Ryan had been overweight and now that he was thinner, she found him attractive. To me that came across as fat-shaming, and even later it’s also mentioned that Ryan’s father is now the picture of health having lost weight after being diagnosed with diabetes. Also Jessie is described as being a size 4, the same size as her roommate Becca and it just emphasizes the incorrect (for me) assumption that slim equals attractive.
The plot proceeds with Ryan and Jessie getting closer and then the issue of the CEO position comes to a head. There’s also some unexpected family drama that came out of nowhere! Ryan and Jessie get their happy ending and while this isn’t one of my favorites, fans of friends to lovers romances will find things to enjoy and I look forward to reading the next in the series.
My Royal Hook-Up by Riley Pine is the third story in the author duo’s Arrogant Heirs series, a set of royal romances set in a fictional European countMy Royal Hook-Up by Riley Pine is the third story in the author duo’s Arrogant Heirs series, a set of royal romances set in a fictional European country with scandal, drama and a bit of fantasy intertwined with steamy romance for a sometimes over the top but definitely exciting read.
Prince Damien is an outcast from his family in Edenvale after stealing away with the woman betrothed to his brother in an arranged marriage, and a subsequent accident that cost her life. Now he plays by no rules and has a reputation for his devil may care attitude. When he encounters Princess Juliet of Nightgardin, he knows that trifling with the princess of their neighboring and rival country could mean death, but her entreaty to help her experience sexual satisfaction before an arranged marriage to an older man is one he can’t refuse.
Juliet knows that her days hidden away with Damien could be considered treason but she doesn’t care, as the ecstasy she experiences with him is worth any price. When they are found by the Nightgardin Royal Guard, Damien is beaten and left for dead on his family’s doorstep with a full on case of amnesia. Weeks later, when Juliet shows up in Edenvale pregnant, Damien doesn’t know what to think. He’d vowed to never love another after the accident that killed his true love. Are this woman’s claims true? And can they claim their happy ever after?
A copy of this story was provided by the publisher for review.
Merged review:
My Royal Hook-Up by Riley Pine is the third story in the author duo’s Arrogant Heirs series, a set of royal romances set in a fictional European country with scandal, drama and a bit of fantasy intertwined with steamy romance for a sometimes over the top but definitely exciting read.
Prince Damien is an outcast from his family in Edenvale after stealing away with the woman betrothed to his brother in an arranged marriage, and a subsequent accident that cost her life. Now he plays by no rules and has a reputation for his devil may care attitude. When he encounters Princess Juliet of Nightgardin, he knows that trifling with the princess of their neighboring and rival country could mean death, but her entreaty to help her experience sexual satisfaction before an arranged marriage to an older man is one he can’t refuse.
Juliet knows that her days hidden away with Damien could be considered treason but she doesn’t care, as the ecstasy she experiences with him is worth any price. When they are found by the Nightgardin Royal Guard, Damien is beaten and left for dead on his family’s doorstep with a full on case of amnesia. Weeks later, when Juliet shows up in Edenvale pregnant, Damien doesn’t know what to think. He’d vowed to never love another after the accident that killed his true love. Are this woman’s claims true? And can they claim their happy ever after?
The Tycoon’s Shock Heir by Bella Frances is a sensual romance featuring a ballet dancer and a banker who find themselves caught in a conundrum when thThe Tycoon’s Shock Heir by Bella Frances is a sensual romance featuring a ballet dancer and a banker who find themselves caught in a conundrum when their night together has unexpected consequences!
Matteo Rossini is fully absorbed in restoring the reputation and dominance of his family bank, the Banca Casa di Rossini. He and his mother are in charge since the untimely death of his father, and their betrayal from his father’s oldest friend Claudio. When word comes out that a rival banker Arturo is getting out of the business, Matteo wants to be first in line to merge their businesses. Arturo is one of the old guard, and any whiff of scandal could put off the merger, so Matteo needs to keep reputation clean and he already has had a trial with his last breakup and his ex-girlfriend telling lies to the media. One of the ways to keep himself in the positive press is social engagements and charity ventures, including appearing at an art’s benefit for the British ballet and his mother has the perfect date for him – the lovely and talented Ruby Martin.
Ruby is a ballet dancer, currently on the injured list recovering from ligament damage when one of the benefactors of the ballet, Coral Rossini asks her to accompany her son Matteo to the ballet benefit. She’s been a supporter of the ballet and of Ruby herself for so long that Ruby can’t refuse. She doesn’t know much about Matteo except that he’s an ex-rugby player who is now working in his family banking industry and he’s a handsome and charming man. Ruby had grown up in the ballet, boarding with them since an early age. Truthfully, the money and clothing Coral gives her for assisting Matteo is something she can definitely use too.
Ruby and Matteo get off to an awkward start on the their forced date (especially since Matteo isn’t sure if Ruby is trying to take advantage of his mother) but eventually the physical attraction between them is impossible to ignore, culminating in a sexy night together. But when Ruby ends up pregnant, things get much more complicated than just a simple one night stand. Matteo must keep his reputation intact to score the business deal so he offers Ruby marriage and a chance at a real family. Ruby never wanted a baby before, knowing how it would impact her career. But with the reality facing her, is it time for a new dream and a happy ever after?
A copy of this story was provided by the publisher for review.
Merged review:
The Tycoon’s Shock Heir by Bella Frances is a sensual romance featuring a ballet dancer and a banker who find themselves caught in a conundrum when their night together has unexpected consequences!
Matteo Rossini is fully absorbed in restoring the reputation and dominance of his family bank, the Banca Casa di Rossini. He and his mother are in charge since the untimely death of his father, and their betrayal from his father’s oldest friend Claudio. When word comes out that a rival banker Arturo is getting out of the business, Matteo wants to be first in line to merge their businesses. Arturo is one of the old guard, and any whiff of scandal could put off the merger, so Matteo needs to keep reputation clean and he already has had a trial with his last breakup and his ex-girlfriend telling lies to the media. One of the ways to keep himself in the positive press is social engagements and charity ventures, including appearing at an art’s benefit for the British ballet and his mother has the perfect date for him – the lovely and talented Ruby Martin.
Ruby is a ballet dancer, currently on the injured list recovering from ligament damage when one of the benefactors of the ballet, Coral Rossini asks her to accompany her son Matteo to the ballet benefit. She’s been a supporter of the ballet and of Ruby herself for so long that Ruby can’t refuse. She doesn’t know much about Matteo except that he’s an ex-rugby player who is now working in his family banking industry and he’s a handsome and charming man. Ruby had grown up in the ballet, boarding with them since an early age. Truthfully, the money and clothing Coral gives her for assisting Matteo is something she can definitely use too.
Ruby and Matteo get off to an awkward start on the their forced date (especially since Matteo isn’t sure if Ruby is trying to take advantage of his mother) but eventually the physical attraction between them is impossible to ignore, culminating in a sexy night together. But when Ruby ends up pregnant, things get much more complicated than just a simple one night stand. Matteo must keep his reputation intact to score the business deal so he offers Ruby marriage and a chance at a real family. Ruby never wanted a baby before, knowing how it would impact her career. But with the reality facing her, is it time for a new dream and a happy ever after?
Georgina and Malcolm are an unlikely pair in this opposites attract romance by Lily Maxton, part of her Townsends series (the first of which, The RoguGeorgina and Malcolm are an unlikely pair in this opposites attract romance by Lily Maxton, part of her Townsends series (the first of which, The Rogue's Conquest was nominated for a 2018 RITA award from the Romance Writers of America for Historical Romance: Short!). When Georgina goes hunting for the thieves who stole the music box she treasures as a memory of her mother, she ends up joining their motley crue and developing feelings for Malcolm their leader. He is not quite the bad guy she thinks he'll be. Then when Malcolm ends up masquerading as a schoolteacher he not only takes to the job well, he also discovers that the woman who deceived him still has a hold on his heart.
The plot for this one is a bit far-fetched as far as historical romances go but it's a fun and entertaining story none-the-less. I enjoying seeing the Townsend family again and Georgina is delightful as a woman willing to do whatever it takes to get her property back. Malcolm is a returned soldier who blames Highland Lords for the loss of his family, making his feelings for Georgina inconvenient. It's a slow burn romance and there are some sexy scenes as the couple connect. They have to figure out how to keep Malcolm out of jail for his past deeds in a way that is plausible in order to get their happy ending. It's an enjoyable read. 3.5 stars.
Note: a copy of this story was provided by the publisher via NetGalley for review.
Merged review:
Georgina and Malcolm are an unlikely pair in this opposites attract romance by Lily Maxton, part of her Townsends series (the first of which, The Rogue's Conquest was nominated for a 2018 RITA award from the Romance Writers of America for Historical Romance: Short!). When Georgina goes hunting for the thieves who stole the music box she treasures as a memory of her mother, she ends up joining their motley crue and developing feelings for Malcolm their leader. He is not quite the bad guy she thinks he'll be. Then when Malcolm ends up masquerading as a schoolteacher he not only takes to the job well, he also discovers that the woman who deceived him still has a hold on his heart.
The plot for this one is a bit far-fetched as far as historical romances go but it's a fun and entertaining story none-the-less. I enjoying seeing the Townsend family again and Georgina is delightful as a woman willing to do whatever it takes to get her property back. Malcolm is a returned soldier who blames Highland Lords for the loss of his family, making his feelings for Georgina inconvenient. It's a slow burn romance and there are some sexy scenes as the couple connect. They have to figure out how to keep Malcolm out of jail for his past deeds in a way that is plausible in order to get their happy ending. It's an enjoyable read. 3.5 stars.
Note: a copy of this story was provided by the publisher via NetGalley for review....more
I was in the mood to read some romantic suspense when a new Lora Leigh novel came to my attention. She’s been publishing books for more than two decadI was in the mood to read some romantic suspense when a new Lora Leigh novel came to my attention. She’s been publishing books for more than two decades in the romantic suspense, erotic romance and paranormal genres. Play Dirty is the first in a new series, Tempting SEALS: Triton, a spin off from her Tempting SEALS series (originally published 2005-2008, with collections published since then).
Jack and Poppy have known each other since they were kids, but when Jack joined the Navy SEALs, he went out of his way to avoid Poppy whenever he came back to town. Now, after a secret deal with the Navy to keep him out of prison (he killed some black ops agents who were abusing innocents), he’s got a job to do: Protect Poppy, even if it means she’ll never forgive him for keeping her in the dark about why he’s back home. He’s after the men who are her bosses, real estate moguls who happen to be involved in seriously dirty crimes. He moves into the house across the street from hers (that he’d bought, but had left sitting empty for years) and the spark between him and Poppy hasn’t dimmed. In fact, he’s got the perfect way to keep her safe while investigating – make himself indispensable in her bed and her life, at least for a little while. But when Poppy finds out what’s really going on, will she be willing to forgive Jack for his deception?
I had high expectations for this story but it didn't work as well as I'd hoped. The adventure was muted, the start was slow for me, and I'm not sure tI had high expectations for this story but it didn't work as well as I'd hoped. The adventure was muted, the start was slow for me, and I'm not sure that I bought the chemistry between the two main characters. The concept was good, just the execution needed some work.
A copy of this story was provided by the publisher via NetGalley. ...more
Catching up on some of my older TBR (to-be-read) books, I came across this seasonally appropriate holiday romance by Lauren Layne – An Ex for ChristmaCatching up on some of my older TBR (to-be-read) books, I came across this seasonally appropriate holiday romance by Lauren Layne – An Ex for Christmas. It’s the fifth book in her Love Unexpectedly series (but the first one of this particular series I’ve read). As several of her books (especially in the Oxford series) have been 5 star reads for me, I was eager to dive into this friends-to-lovers romance. And everything would have gone quite smoothly had it not been for the heroine’s continual commenting on her (perfectly average) weight.
Kelly Byrne, elementary school teacher at a private school in New York, is on her way home for Christmas. She works in the city during the week and shares an apartment with a roommate, then spends weekends in the house her grandmother left her, where she can live independently but still regularly see her parents, who live nearby. She encounters a psychic at a train station who tells her that she’s already met her one true love and that he will come back to her before Christmas. As a devotee of the Magic 8 ball, a firm believer in astrological signs, and having had a grandmother with the ‘sight’, Kelly takes her words seriously and makes a list of all her ex-boyfriends, determined to connect with each one to see if they should rekindle their relationship.
Her best friend Mark Blakely has a house across the backyard from hers and they share a dog, Rigby, who has the run of both houses. Mark is a chef who runs a restaurant in town, though he’s thinking of expanding into New York. Kelly and Mark have been friends since they were children, and Mark has seen Kelly go through one boyfriend after another. He’s not that thrilled with her plan to reconnect with each of these men but he’ll go along with it, at least at first.
Kelly is spending Christmas without her parents as she’s sent them on an Alaskan cruise for their thirtieth anniversary, so Mark is by her side as she goes through the usual Christmas routines, to make sure she isn’t lonely. But each man that she reconnects with causes her to begin see Mark in a different light. And when they connect on a new level, Kelly has to make a choice – does she keep pursuing the names on her list or toss it – and the psychic’s advice – aside for what is right in front of her?
Great narration but I found the book didn't grab me as much as the others in the series have. Still, I wanted to see how it all started (since I read/Great narration but I found the book didn't grab me as much as the others in the series have. Still, I wanted to see how it all started (since I read/listened to books 2 and 3, 3 being my favourite). I did find the plotline of Jude's missing parents quite interesting...
This one was okay. It dragged a bit for me in the middle as the plot was pretty predictable. The audiobook narration was great though (love Kate ReadiThis one was okay. It dragged a bit for me in the middle as the plot was pretty predictable. The audiobook narration was great though (love Kate Reading!). I am intrigued to read about the other difficult Dukes....more
I’ve been a fan of Annabeth Albert’s storytelling for a few years now (fifteen books read according to my Goodreads shelves, mostly four and five starI’ve been a fan of Annabeth Albert’s storytelling for a few years now (fifteen books read according to my Goodreads shelves, mostly four and five star ratings) so while I missed the first in her A-list Security series, I was interested in reading the second book, Hard Job, a bodyguard romance with a sibling’s best friend trope. With the past stories being so highly rated, I hoped for something just as good here, but this one didn’t click with me the same way as some of the author’s previous books have, so while it was a good read overall, there isn’t anything memorable for me to rave about.
Duncan Lubov, a former SEAL officer, now runs a security company. His half-brother Danny requests a favour, to cover security for his rock star friend Ezra during his upcoming tour after fans at a previous concert jumped security fences, causing a sensation and the resignation of his security chief. Duncan has known Ezra since he and Danny starred in a kids’ TV show together, but he hasn’t seen him since those early days. Still, having a rock star client would give his security company a boost and the job is only for a few weeks.
Ezra Moon still remembers the first time he laid eyes on Duncan (and learned that he wasn’t entirely straight) fifteen years earlier, and it would be fair to say he’d had a teenaged crush on him then. But now Ezra’s all grown up, and not shy to make his preferences known. Though Duncan appears uptight and strict, a necessity to keep his clients safe, he has a dry sense of humour and when attraction flares between them, it’s not long before they indulge in a secret affair. Duncan knows it’s a bad idea (sleeping with a client is never good for business) but is it possible that their opposites-attract fling can turn into something permanent?
There are several things I liked about this story. There is attention to detail on the life of a rock star, the trials and successes, the business end, and the thrill of performing. There’s also an interesting difference in their family dynamics. Ezra has a supportive family who care about him and keep tabs on him as he travels on tour. Duncan, on the other hand, apart his close relationship with his brother Danny, has a dysfunctional family with a father who is big in the entertainment industry and just as notorious for his power as for his many extra-marital affairs. Duncan is determined to prove he can be successful without his father’s favours and Ezra is fully supportive of him. And of course, the sex scenes are hot and well written.
The main problem I had is that I just didn’t find Ezra and Duncan compelling as a couple. I didn’t feel their attraction (hot sex notwithstanding) and I can’t put my finger on why that was. I just know that I picked up and put down the book a few times before I finished it and didn’t really find anything memorable or compelling to keep me reading. Now this could definitely be a case of ‘it’s me and not you’ and it won’t stop me from picking up more by this author. The happy ending is satisfying and there isn’t anything inherently wrong that would make me drop this to a low grade, as I suspect other readers will enjoy it just fine. It just didn’t wow me like some of Annabeth Albert’s earlier work.
If you’ve read books by Naima Simone (for example her erotic romance series Lick or Sweetest Taboo), you know she can bring the heat. So Heated, the fIf you’ve read books by Naima Simone (for example her erotic romance series Lick or Sweetest Taboo), you know she can bring the heat. So Heated, the first book in her Burned Inc. series, definitely lives up to its forebears. The story idea is unique, contains some classic romance tropes (fake relationship, opposites attract), and while it’s her most memorable work (and the beginning has a few tics that grated) it was overall a pleasant afternoon read.
Zora Nelson and her siblings Levi and Miriam run a company called Burned – Breaking Up, Reversing Nuptials & Evading Disaster. Essentially it’s a company that will break up with someone for you, for a fee, by text, video, dinner or whatever the client wants. Having grown up in a dysfunctional family with parents who would have been better off divorced but instead are still married and subject their children to ongoing feuding, Zora hopes to head off that disaster for other couples.
When Burned is contracted by socialite Val Summers to break up her dating relationship with lawyer Cyrus Hart, Zora ends up taking the case personally. Which means she’s the one who reads a ‘Dear John’ breakup letter to Cyrus on his doorstep and sees the shock and devastation in his eyes.
She’s also the one who has to endure a sit down dinner with another client’s soon-to-be ex, one who is turning nasty until Cyrus, who happens to be dining in the same restaurant, comes to her rescue. Cyrus mistakenly thinks that Zora happens to be a kind friend who has taken on the job of helping her own friends break up their relationships, and Zora doesn’t correct him and tell him about her company. She knows what it’s like to be on the receiving end of disdain for her business and can’t bring herself to see that same look in Cyrus’s eyes. So she plays along.
Cyrus has his future all mapped out – perfect wife, perfect job, etc. And being dumped by Val has definitely put a kink in those plans, including his ambitions to become a partner at his law firm. The ones in charge have a criteria for admission into their upper echelons and being single doesn’t fit as well for them as being in a relationship. So when Cyrus is put on the spot and needs a date to a weekend work-sponsored retreat, his mind goes to the stunning and unforgettable Zora, even though she’s partly responsible for his current problem. When another chance meeting puts them in contact with each other again, Cyrus proposes she pretend to be his girlfriend as a chance to assuage some of her guilt for her part in the end of his relationship with Val. Even though Zora knows she should refuse (never date a client’s ex!), her attraction to Cyrus gets the better of her and she agrees. Spending time together starts out fake but soon begins to feel all too real. But when Cyrus finds out the truth of what Zora’s business does, will he be the deliverer of the worst breakup news of all?
Though I’ve read some romances about divorce handlers, a breakup company is a new story idea for me and Zora, Miriam and Levi each have their own roles in the company and making it a success. I enjoyed all three of these characters, their unique personalities and of course Zora, as the heroine here, takes center stage. She’s strong, confident (most of the time), and proud of the work she does even though she knows society as a whole isn’t impressed with the concept of their work. Their parents, of course, disdain the whole idea (not seeming to realize that it’s because of them that their children are in this line of work) so each sibling has their own fractured relationship with their parents, and it makes Zora all the more determined to succeed.
The relationship between Zora and Cyrus is one of mutual lust, leading to several steamy scenes. Since Cyrus didn’t have any deep feelings for Val (she was more a means to an end, though when he finds out she had been cheating on him he realizes he dodged a bullet), his heart is free to move on to new territory. Zora and Val are clearly opposites in body type (Zora is Black and curvy while Val is white and thin) and character, but for Cyrus that’s definitely part of the attraction. Zora is like no woman he has ever dated and that makes her stand out in a crowd.
The things I had trouble with were mostly a writing style issue (maybe the author has used it previously and I was able to ignore it, but I found somewhat irritating here) – she has a tendency to use overly descriptive language or purple prose. For example when Val shows Zora a picture of Cyrus in their initial meeting to discuss details of the breakup, there are two pages describing Cyrus’s Greek God-like appearance:
‘I stare.. at a face that once upon a time would’ve been carved into marble and worshipped in a temple. Or pressed into a bronze coin. Or extolled in a tale that would be passed down from generation to generation to become myth.’
Or describing his eyes:
‘They’re not your run-of-the-mill blue. His eyes are the deepest, hottest heart of a flame. The brilliant blaze of a sky when the sun is at its highest. Those eyes are dazzling in their intensity, damn near blinding, and difficult to look at.’
Even simple sentences get this treatment:
“Again, no verbal ‘I told your ass so’ but the room rings with it like the Ebenezer First Baptist Church’s choir on Easter Sunday.’
It just gets a bit tedious. There’s less of this in the latter parts of the story, and the insta-lust does evolve into insta-love to give our two main characters a happy ending. There are some secondary characters introduced who I’m very curious about and intrigued to see if they become part of a future story, so I’ll probably keep reading the series to see what Miriam and Levi get up to. I just hope that a little editing nips the over embellishments I found distracting here.
I'm enjoying the post-apocalyptic world created by this author and the sexy romances amid an ever present tension in the fight for survival. This storI'm enjoying the post-apocalyptic world created by this author and the sexy romances amid an ever present tension in the fight for survival. This story features Olivia, who at 17 entered a bunker founded by her father and joined an underground community while the world raged above them. During that time her father passed away and Grant, a man enlisted by her father as a protector/bodyguard, kept her safe. Now it's five years later, the doors to the underground bunker have been opened and survival takes a new turn as now they must interract with those who were left outside. It also gives Olivia a chance to show Grant that she's not that scared teenager anymore - she's a woman who is strong and capable and ready for more, including a relationship. At first their attraction is just mutual lust getting sated but it gradually turns into a deeper, more emotional relationship. I liked this couple and I look forward to reading more in the series! ...more
Kate Meader’s books have been on my radar since her Hot in the Kitchen series debuted in 2013. That was followed by her Hot in Chicago series (PlayingKate Meader’s books have been on my radar since her Hot in the Kitchen series debuted in 2013. That was followed by her Hot in Chicago series (Playing with Fire, a scorching enemies to lovers romance remains a favourite and made my top ten list in 2015). Since then she’s delved into some hockey romances and a few other contemporary series but I’m delighted that she’s gone back to the firefighting world she created in Hot in Chicago with her new spinoff series Hot in Chicago Rookies. Up in Smoke is a workplace romance set at Engine 6 in Chicago that introduces a new cast of characters while pleasing longtime fans with a glimpse of what the Dempseys of the original series have been up to.
After four years as a paramedic, Abby Sullivan has just finished her first six months at the Chicago Fire Department’s training academy, ready to go on assignment as a candidate at Engine 6, the fire station her mother was stationed at when she died in the line of duty. Abby’s dad is the fire commissioner. He’s not keen on Abby’s decision to follow in her parents’ footsteps and has given her a hard time over her choice. But Abby knows this is the right thing for her to do.
On the night before her assignment is to start, she celebrates with her friends, then decides to wind down with some cherry pie at her favorite local diner. As luck would have it, the last piece of pie has been spoken for by a tall, handsome stranger. Some small talk ensues, the piece of pie is shared and a spark is ignited. While some restraint is shown (they kiss but don’t take it any further), they exchange numbers (‘Diner Dude’ and ‘Cherry Pie’) and things look hopeful for this meet-cute couple. Except, wouldn’t you know it, when Abby arrives at the station for her first day, her Lieutenant is none other than ‘Diner Dude’, a.k.a Roman Rossi. Dreams dashed, Abby and Roman are determined to put the kiss behind them, put out that spark and go on about their daily lives as Abby learns the ropes at Engine 6. In close proximity though, it’s not so easy. Will their choices lead to a future together or career disaster?
The set up for this one is fairly common, but the difference is that Abby and Roman don’t sleep together before she finds out that he’s her boss. Roman is a divorced single dad with full custody of his daughter Lena. He has a close relationship with his sister, Chiara, and he transferred to Chicago from New York after his wife had an affair with one of his firefighter crew (ouch). He hasn’t even thought about dating again until meeting Abby, and knowing that she’s off limits just bites. Roman and Abby discuss whether they should report their previous encounter to the higher-ups but since nothing really happened (and the fallout for Abby as the fire commissioner’s daughter would definitely be worse for her) they choose to put it behind them. Naturally this is easier said than done. Eventually they decide that a ‘just sex, it doesn’t have to mean anything’ affair, one that Abby offers and that Roman can’t resist, ensues. It’s hot and steamy and full of forbidden desire and guilt, and suddenly Abby realizes just how hard it was for her dad watching her mom go into dangerous situations because her ‘just sex’ affair is coming dangerously close to resulting in ‘feelings’ (and the same goes for Roman).
I have mixed feelings about Roman and Abby’s decision to sleep together. Yes, it’s mutual, but I still have that niggling feeling that the position of authority Roman is in at Engine 6 means he should have resisted, at least until figuring out a way to move her under a different command structure where they wouldn’t be boss/employee. Of course, this is the conflict that always comes up in these situations but here, a relationship could have real life-or-death consequences, when decisions might be second guessed or made for emotional reasons.
As for the rest of the story, there are many things I enjoyed that still make me glad to have read the book. Roman is a caring father and it shows in his relationship with his daughter. Abby becomes a friend to Lena and is able to provide support and advice to Roman in that relationship. Abby and her father work through some of their relationship problems, and while the loss of Abby’s mother is a significant part of the story because of how it’s impacted her life, it doesn’t overwhelm the plot. The cameos played by the Dempsey foster siblings are a treat for fans of the original series. Gage is the cook at Engine 6, Luke is another Lieutenant at the station, and Alex is on maternity leave but leaves Abby a heartfelt letter of welcome and solidarity as the other woman firefighter on their crew. Seeing these familiar characters makes me want to reread that series.
Since this is a book featuring an active firehouse, there are some fire scenes that are pretty intense interspersed with the downtime of the crew and general life on and off duty. The story flows well, the romance heats up just like the action in the second half, and once the secret of their affair is out, Abby and Roman have to cope with the fallout. It all leads to a satisfying conclusion, a happy ending for the couple, and the introduction of a few new characters whom I expect to see in the ensuing Rookie books. It’s a good start and will please fans of the author and new readers who like the firefighting story plot. Do yourself a favour though, and read the Hot in Chicago series if you haven’t done so already – it’s well worth it.
I'm trying to catch up on some older books from my TBR that are holiday themed and came across this short novella in the Maiden Lane series (which I cI'm trying to catch up on some older books from my TBR that are holiday themed and came across this short novella in the Maiden Lane series (which I confess I haven't yet finished either, I think I've read up to book 7 or 8). I enjoyed it, but I was struck by how much the conversation on consent has changed in the past 4 years since this books was written. Adam just dives into those kisses with Sarah without her consent and though he does back off when she protests, it doesn't stop him from doing the same thing again later. And yet, when Sarah's sister is accosted by a houseguest, Adam is the first to show his displeasure with a punch to the face and helping kick him out. Since Sarah's introduction to society was ruined by a Rake, she rightfully is leery of Adam but at the same time, he does show care and concern for his grandmother and a lot of his bravado is surface things, and not his real character. I just wish he'd asked for her consent to kiss her first. I guess I'm spoiled by books in all the romance genres that deal with this now in a much better way. Anyway, I enjoyed the story overall and the setting and worldbuilding, it's a good reminder that I need to get back to finishing the series!
A copy of this story was provided by the publisher via NetGalley. ...more
Well Met set the bar really high for this series (it was on my top ten list of 2019) so it stands to reason that any followup will have a hard time toWell Met set the bar really high for this series (it was on my top ten list of 2019) so it stands to reason that any followup will have a hard time topping that. And indeed, while I enjoyed Well Matched and seeing Mitch get his HEA, it didn't quite have the 'can't put this down' feel that Well Met did. I found it started out a bit slowly for April and Mitch as they navigate a fake relationship. It seemed to me that they didn't have a lot of chemistry, at least until later in the story. There is a side plot where April's ex-husband (and Caitlin, her daughter's, very absent father) shows up for Caitlin's graduation that seemed haphazardly thrown in as an opportunity for Mitch to return the favour posing as April's date, after she posed as his girlfriend for a family event. (The ex is in and then out of the picture pretty quickly).
I had no problem with the age difference between April and Mitch (she's 10 years older) and I understood her concerns about children and depriving Mitch of having his own if he stayed with her. Because it's told from only April's point of view, we don't get to see Mitch's side of the story except through her eyes. In some parts this felt like a women's fiction novel where April's growth and change as a character was the real focus of the plot. By the end though, I bought into Mitch and April as a couple and shed a few tears as they worked their way to a satisfying ending. Mitch really is the quintessential nice guy hero, a playboy with a good heart, and I've enjoyed his appearance in every book of this series. Both of their families play an important role in the story and while the Renaissance Faire only shows up really in the second half, I still enjoyed those scenes and wished for more. I'm rating this one a 3.5 and hoping that there will be more in this world to come.
A copy of this story was provided by the publisher via NetGalley. ...more
The second book in Noelle Adams's Bad Bridesmaids series is the Mission, a friends to lovers romance. Serena has a mission and that's to find her bestThe second book in Noelle Adams's Bad Bridesmaids series is the Mission, a friends to lovers romance. Serena has a mission and that's to find her best friend, Keith, a partner. She's a divorced mom and Keith has been her stalwart loyal friend since they were kids. She wants him to experience the joy of being in a committed relationship (even if hers didn't turn out so well). But along the way of setting Keith up for dates, she discovers that maybe she wants Keith for herself. As for Keith, he's been in love with Serena for years, had to realize his mistake in not telling her when she got married, and now doesn't want to screw up their friendship. He's not really interested in Serena's mission to get him a girlfriend, but doesn't want to hurt her feelings. And when some moments between them turn tense with sexual tension, he makes Serena feel so comfortable and relaxed in his presence that they are able to indulge in a one night stand, and still be friends - and then Serena realizes she wants more.
It's a pretty standard friends to lovers story, with some sexy scenes between Serena and Keith and a sweet relationship between Serena's daughter Eva and her 'Uncle Keith'. They make a lovely family unit, better late than never! The female friends are the backbone of the series, as are the various weddings they attend. It's a lighthearted, easy read.
A copy of this story was provided by the author....more
This is like an erotic mafia romance but with the family heads all Greek Gods instead. Not knowing alot of Greek mythology, I sometimes struggled withThis is like an erotic mafia romance but with the family heads all Greek Gods instead. Not knowing alot of Greek mythology, I sometimes struggled with the characters and whether I should know their reputations from mythology prior to reading this, though the author does give character clues with a modern take. BDSM type club scenes take place in Hades's underworld lair which are fitting for the characters. Persephone and Hades make a fun pair and their sexy scenes are definitely hot, leading to their HEA. I'm not sold on the greek myth retelling idea though ( personal preference) so undecided on picking up the next in the series.
A copy of this story was provided by the publisher via NetGalley....more
Good follow up to the first in the series. Some interesting revelations. Lots of action and danger. Of course that doesn't stop the main characters frGood follow up to the first in the series. Some interesting revelations. Lots of action and danger. Of course that doesn't stop the main characters from having sex on the run! Insta-lust turns to insta-love with an HEA for the couple and enough mystery to keep the series going. Will definitely keep on the lookout for the next book! It's a good series for Romantic Suspense readers.
A copy of this story was provided by the publisher via NetGalley....more
This is the first book I've read by this author and it's an enjoyable contemporary romance with a sex positive fashion designer heroine who has a flinThis is the first book I've read by this author and it's an enjoyable contemporary romance with a sex positive fashion designer heroine who has a fling with a building developer while visiting her sister in London. Leia (yes, she's named after THAT Leia, to her chagrin as she's not a Star Wars fan) is newly divorced and not interested in a relationship but the man she meets, Tarquin (who IS a Star Wars Fan) is ready for commitment. This sets them off down an interesting path that will eventually lead to their HEA but not without a lot of bumps in the road first.
Tarquin's mental health is a plot point in the book that is handled with honesty and realism. My favourite parts of the book involve Leia's fashion design career and how that evolves - I found that really interesting and informative. The setting of London (and a bit of New York) is well described. One thing that stuck out to me though was the author's use of italicized text to denote what the characters are thinking (and it's a lot). I've never seen that done before - not sure that I'm a fan. The book is quite lengthy (clocking in at just under 400 pages) which while giving lots of time for the characters to grow and learn about each other, did make it drag in some places for me. All in all it's a sweet and sexy contemporary romance.
A copy of this story was provided by the author. ...more
Maria Rose
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