Saturday, December 31, 2016

Shirt (Ryan & Scott #1) by Amy Lane

This short novella tells us a little bit about how Ryan and Scott met. I've already read the second ("Phonebook") and third ("Puppy, Car & Snow") parts of Ryan and Scott's story. But I'm only getting to their beginning now because this novella was originally released as a part of an Anthology I wasn't that interested in.. and now finally this one was released on it's own. 

Truthfully, this is basically a sex scene with a little bit of reminiscent of how Ryan and Scott met and about their relationship dynamics. There IS a story here but it's masked by the sex scene which made this one a little bit too superficial for me. 

Shattered Glass (Shattered Glass #1) [Peter & Austin] by Dani Alexander

It really is a shame it took me THAT long to get to this amazing book. It's actually very hard to review because I'm not sure how to explain it besides saying 'Austin Glass' and resting my case. There is something about his narrative, the way he thinks, the way he talks, and the way he seems to always get himself into trouble which is more than endearing. It's not that he is "perfect", he isn't which is exactly what makes him so likeable. He is confused, he is way over his head, he is TOO DAMN HORNY for his own good but you know what? It sort of works out in the end even if not the way he would have thought a day before he met a cute redhead with bunny slippers. 

Tuesday, December 27, 2016

Bitter Taffy (Candy Man #2) [Derek & Rico] by Amy Lane

I can't really explain it, but I'm just not "feeling it" with this book. The whole story is told from Rico's POV and I just don't feel any connection to him. It's nice seeing Adam and Finn again (they have a HUGE part in the book) but though I was almost halfway through I had a feeling as though nothing actually happened. 

I've read the first installment "Candy Man" about a year and a half ago. I remember I liked it, but didn't love it. Granted it was a bit short which I think had a big part as to why it wasn't "enough" for me, but with this one, we DO get a whole story and yet it's too slow on the move. There is too much emphasis on mundane living and the part of Rico and Derek getting to know one another had too much "background noise" from SOMEONE else. When they FINALLY were on their own, I lost interest (at the 44% mark). 

Monday, December 26, 2016

It's You (It's You #2) by K.P. Kelley (Katy Regnery)

My thoughts from the previous installment are extremely accurate for this one as well. In one word - INTENSE, with just another word added - AWESOME. I really enjoyed this book, loved the characters, the story and the way it evolved. There were so many layers to both Darcy and Jake's decisions as to "what to do next", it wasn't that simple for either one of them. No decision was a "good one", or one they could live with easily. This is the place to state that if you HAVEN'T read the first part of "It's You", first - YOU SHOULD, and second - better not continue reading you'll encounter MAJOR spoilers ahead. 

Wednesday, December 21, 2016

It's You (It's You #1) by K.P. Kelley (Katy Regnery)

INTENSE! If I had one word to describe this book, that's the word I'd use. If I had two to spare I would add - AWESOME. This book was SO captivating, I loved the dynamics of the book, as well as the connection between Jake and Darcy. Even though they don't really know each other, there is something about their years long mystical connection that made it possible in my head. Even though this IS Paranormal Romance, it doesn't really HAVE to make sense, you know?

Tuesday, December 20, 2016

Getting Inside (Seattle Grizzlies #1) [Iona & Ty] by Serena Bell

Wonderful story! I absolutely loved both Ty and Iona. They are both strong independent characters, they know what they want, they know where their focus SHOULD be, yet there is some sort of a pull they can't ignore and lucky for us - they don't ;) Getting a strong hero is nothing new in a romance novel, but getting someone as strong as Iona was truly refreshing, though she was working hard to keep her place because she was always being second guessed. Ty was perfect for her because unlike most men he wasn't discouraged by either her strong body nor her strong willed character and he actually understood how hard she needed to work to be appreciated. 

Sunday, December 18, 2016

Risk Return (Return on Investment #2) by Aleksandr Voinov

WOW. I couldn't have asked for more.. really. I LOVED getting more of Martin and Francis as a couple. The previous book, the first part of the story - "Return on Investment" - wasn't even a true romance novel, it was more about Martin "growing up", learning his worth, learning who he is and also going after what he wants. So near the end, yeah, he and Francis are together, but it's the very beginning and also, it's hard to imagine how their relationship would work. This story, taking place 6 years later gives us exactly that. Again, our sole POV is of Martin (god how I wished at times to get Francis' voice as well..) and it's no doubt that though there are some things he is still insecure about, he grew up and matured in these years. His relationship with Francis is established, they are happy together. They are living together in Frankfurt. They own their own successful business, working together with a third partner Carsten (Francis' best friend from college whom we met in the previous installment). 

Thursday, December 15, 2016

Return on Investment (Return on Investment #1) by Aleksandr Voinov

I really don't know how to review/explain this book, and maybe more than that - how to rate it. It was a wonderful journey mainly for the our main hero - Martin David (though he wasn't the only one..) It's not really a romance novel, but it's more than a "thriller" or a "drama" kind of novel. For me, it's a maybe a sort of "coming of age" novel? even if it's FAR from being similar to New Adult's usual turf. It's simply something else that doesn't fit into a certain category, but there IS a sort of a romantic vibe, it's just not really clear WHO will be the one Marin finds himself with and also it's not really the main focus in my mind. 

Friday, December 9, 2016

Stuck Landing (Bluewater Bay, #11) [Anna & Natalya] by Lauren Gallagher

This is my very first F/F romance novel. I've read once a short scene (not even a novella) but my issues with it (actually like this one..) weren't AT ALL about the fact there are two women involved. This book was just.. well.. boring. Like the previous one, we only get Anna's POV in first person and THIS is what ruined this book for me. It was just a sort of repeat in her mind of the same issues over and over again plus repeating those ideas to her bodyguard - Jeremy and her best friend - Levi. I just couldn't take it anymore. 

Rain Shadow (Bluewater Bay #10) [Jeremy & Scott] by L.A. Witt

I liked this book but I can't say I loved it. I think I needed to get more than just Jeremy's POV, or maybe I needed more "happy moments" and for them not to be just about having sex with Scott.. I was thinking this book is "depressing" but how can I say that after reading "The Deep of the Sound" (the 8th installment)? Here it's different, the issues Jeremy is dealing with mostly has to do with his dysfunctioning family, the one he left and expected to "solve itself" while he is far away. Yeah, it wasn't working.. 

Wednesday, December 7, 2016

When to Hold Them (Bluewater Bay #9) [Doran & Xavier] by G.B. Gordon

This book just isn't "working" for me. First off, I was worried about the relationship between the two MC being a D/s which I really have to be in a certain mood to read, but then, as the story progressed, I realized it's more of me not connecting with either character. I don't "get" either of them. They don't feel genuine. Something about them is just off. 

Tuesday, December 6, 2016

The Deep of the Sound (Bluewater Bay #8) [Cal & Avery] by Amy Lane

This one was totally different from the previous installments, but after reading "Nascha" (the short novella in the 6th installment - "Lights, Camera, Cupid") you kinda expect this one to be a difficult heart clenching read. Actually, "Nascha" also gives this one a sort of hope to how everything can be resolved yet it doesn't truly feel like a spoiler, I guess, a sort of "relief" because the first 20% of the book, everything that happens is basically either bad or getting there. 

Wedding Favors (Bluewater Bay #7) [Lucas & Gabe] by Anne Tenino

I LOVED this one! We got the background story to this one in the previous installment in the short novella "Helping Hand" which was a sweet "coming of age" story. This one takes place 12 years later, when Lucas returns home to his best friends' wedding. It was hinted that Audrey might have an interest in Zach (Lucas' older brother) and so when SHE returns home about a year before they rekindle their interest in one another. Lucas isn't sure about returning home, and anyhow, he doesn't intend to stay after the wedding.. he just has to figure out where to live after he and his boyfriend broke up. 

Monday, December 5, 2016

Glass Tidings by Amy Jo Cousins

Beautiful, so so beautiful and heartfelt. The only thing I could have asked for isn't from Amy.. There was a party at my neighbors the day I started reading and so at a certain point I literally got nauseated from the loud HORRIBLE music (karaoke included...) and I just couldn't continue.. my only complaint is I couldn't read the book in one gulp as I wished (finished it the day after). Why am I mentioning this? because in a way it "worked" with the fact both MC in this book are a sort of loners and I can certainly fit the bill. Like Eddie and Grayson - sitting in the quiet of my home and enjoying a book is really most of what I ask for in life. I freaked out because I couldn't do that, I was DENIED my peace of mind which left me absolutely INSANE. Like Eddie and Gray I could totally be a people's person (when I choose) but deep down inside, the most appealing thing for me is reading in my quiet house (for me it also HAS to include my dogs). 

Saturday, December 3, 2016

Lights, Camera, Cupid (Bluewater Bay #6) by S.E. Jakes, Amy Lane, Z.A. Maxfield, Anne Tenino & L.A. Witt

I stared this series two months ago and while I DID enjoy it, due to lack of reading time that month had to postpone the continuation of the series for other books I was excited to read and so here I am returning to this fun series with an Anthology half of which are about couples we already met in the previous installments and all of written by authors I've already read and enjoyed. 

I'm reviewing each novella on it's own and then adding my overall thoughts and rating for this Anthology at the very end. 


Wednesday, November 30, 2016

Burn by Aleksandr Voinov

Wait, what was that?! I'm still puzzled about what I just finished.. I mean, I was never into Sci-Fi and maybe it's because these things are WAY to complicated for me. I"m not sure I understood what BURN means.. which, well, suppose to be important right?

There is very little I can say about the plot, reading the synopsis totally gets you the idea behind it all, you are just left with revealing the "big secret" the "motive" so to speak which was a good one. Though again I'm still confused about the whole thing. 

Tuesday, November 29, 2016

Nightingale by Aleksandr Voinov

I enjoyed this book, but at the same time, there were times I felt a bit lost in the gloom of occupied Paris. This IS a romance story told solely from Yves POV, but it's mostly HIS story. The few years he spent as the NIghtingale, a performer - singer and entertainer to the Parisian crowds as well as the Germans occupying the city during WWII. His story is heart breaking but it's also hopeful in it's own way though mostly I felt hard decisions brought Yves to a better place in life. Always compromising something. 

Yves's mother was a famous singer so it's no wonder he inherited the art, and yet mostly he enjoyed making jokes and singing songs in small clubs. That changed after he met Maurice - owner of a few clubs around Paris, most distinguished is "The Palace". Maurice seeing Yves' potential offers him to perform and when a high ranking German officer takes a liking to Yves it becomes a sort of a vouch Maurice and really, every frenchman should have. It's obvious Heinrich von Starck wants more than Yves' friendship and though Yves is flattered he is unsure of any sort of romantic relations with "the enemy", just seeing the uniform disgusts him and yet Heinrich does feel and mostly behave differently when what he expects and the way he protects Yves might prove useful and so he finds himself in a sort of relationship with him he isn't proud of.. while he does enjoy the man's company, anything else he mostly endures. 

Friday, November 25, 2016

The Boyfriend Makeover (The Boyfriend Chronicles #3) [Noah & Ky] by River Jaymes

Disappointed.. I was SO excited about this book, I LOVED the previous ones and when I heard this one is going to be published I haunted Amazon and ordered my copy on 2 AM in the morning it was published. So when I started reading and didn't find myself sucked right in I was puzzled. I felt something was missing but couldn't point my finger to what exactly. I think it's Noah. I couldn't really connect with him. Something about him felt TOO fake, and we had a really short time to see him actually evolve. 

Tuesday, November 22, 2016

J.C. and the Bijoux Jolis (The Rousseaus, #3) [J.C. & Libitz] by Katy Regnery

I loved this book and more over, appreciated this book on so many levels! I truly didn't expect this one to be so special to me, not the way it did. I hope I'll be able to do it justice with my review.. 

Though I was curious about Libitz from hearing about her in Kate and Etienne's book ("Kiss Me Kate", The English Brothers #6), Jean-Christian (J.C. in short) ISN'T my kind of guy, I remember I had a similar thought when I read Alex English's book, I was wondering the same, basically if he will be "redeemable", because let's face it, he sounds like a douche.. (when it's NOT concerning his family). Like with Alex's book, I was happy to be worried for nothing, I truly appreciated J.C.. Yeah he started off as quite annoying in the way he was sure Libitz will fall into his arms (or rather, his bed..) but Libitz was feisty enough to show him she is NOT impressed. Not at all. Which is what I expected from her :) She never did disappoint me in this aspect, she put up a fight against J.C.'s pig like behavior, but she did it while making both him and myself laugh. I really enjoyed their banter. No wonder it made them realize they have more in common then they would easily admit, and that without mentioning they both share a love for art as well as own an art gallery.

Sunday, November 20, 2016

Marry Me Mad (The Rousseaus, #2) [Mad & Cort] by Katy Regnery

Sweet and heart-felt. I LOVED this one. Cort and Mad are PERFECT together, I really liked how this one in a way a love re-kindled, and yet it wasn't. Because Mad and Cort were never actually together but as Merit Atwell (Cort's friend) told Mad - she isn't his "type" she is the "prototype" which sums it all out when you think about it. For Mad it was different, she wanted a fairy-tale but she went the wrong way finding it. 

This book shares the same time-line as the previous one. Took me a while to gather when certain things happen but once the story was finished it all made sense to me. Reading this one before the previous one will give away a HUGE spoiler so DON'T DO IT! Start with Jax's story, it's beautiful and sweet like this one :) 

Saturday, November 19, 2016

Jonquils for Jax (The Rousseaus, #1) [Jax & Gard] by Katy Regnery

What a sweet sweet story! Really enjoyed it! I really liked that though it IS an emotional story, very endearing from both Jax and Gard, I don't consider this one to be angsty at all. It's simply a touching story about two people who are lost, finding a way to each other as well as finding their place in this world. 

It's been a few months since I read "The Winslow Brothers" the second part of the "Blueberry Lane" series and so I really enjoyed getting back. Also meeting a few of the characters from the previous installments. It's not necessary to start at the beginning to enjoy this book though, "The Rousseaus" is a (sub)series standing on it's own. But I DO recommend ALL of them. Like this one, they are rather short sweet romance novels that leaves you with a smile on your face. 

Tuesday, November 15, 2016

Smoke & Mirrors (THIRDS #7) [Dex & Sloane] by Charlie Cochet

~sigh~ this book.. I really don't know where to start.. I think it's my favorite though it's really hard to choose (and yeah ALL the other ones in the series also got 5 stars rating). I LOVE Dex and Sloane, I really enjoyed getting Ash and Cael and Calvin and Ethan's stories but Sloane and Dex are epic in their own right. This book shows us exactly that while revealing A LOT of secrets from the past, as well as what's been going on behind their backs with TIN (a sort of CIA agency with Therian agents) and a little about the villains running the show from back when Ash and Sloane were kids, before they even turned. This book was not only action packed it was also SO DAMN EMOTIONAL, because of the consequences of the action, but also because Sloane and Dex have to deal with their inner demons and it's not easily done. 

Sunday, November 13, 2016

Catch a Tiger by the Tail (THIRDS #6) [Calvin & Ethan] by Charlie Cochet

Clearly, Charlie can do no wrong. This was another excellent installment in the series, focusing on the long awaited love story of Calvin and Ethan. A little bit like Ash and Cael - they just needed a little shove before they could finally form a romantic relationship. Everything changed for Calvin a while ago when he realized he wanted more from Ethan but he only made the first move after the Youth Center exploded with Ethan inside. That's when they shared their first kiss. Yet though Ethan returned the kiss, for him, making a change in their relationship is the most scary thing he can think of. Calvin is the most important person in his life. If things doesn't work out, what would happen to their friendship? That's something he doesn't want to risk and yet when it's obvious Calvin wants more and is constantly hurt by Ethan for not wanting him back he is forced to consider and re-consider his decisions. 

Saturday, November 12, 2016

Against the Grain (THIRDS #5) [Cael & Ash] by Charlie Cochet

I LOVED this one SO MUCH. Really enjoyed getting Cael and Ash's love story. It was different in pace than Dex and Sloane's relationship because they both already loved and wanted each other, it was just waiting for Ash to accept the fact he is gay, he loves Cael and is willing to put his past aside so he could be with him. I think it was mostly about getting "hit on the head" figuratively speaking so he could make the final step towards Cael.

When I've heard this is Cael and Ash's book I thought it would somehow be more about THEM, but actually it was very similar to the other books in the series, Dex and Sloane have a huge part in it as well, not only because Ash and Sloane are best friends and Dex and Cael are brothers.. The book is mostly told from their POVs with a little bit of Austen thrown in the mix. He's starting to have a bigger role in the series which I really like! He's such an interesting character!

Tuesday, November 8, 2016

Rise & Fall (THIRDS #4) [Dex & Sloane] by Charlie Cochet

This series is turning out to be my absolute favorite PNR / UF series. From the first till now, each book is a solid 5 star review. These books have it all, they are humorous! I find myself Laughing Out Loud A LOT and yet they are also emotional and heart warming (at times heart breaking), besides that there is also action and a beautiful world containing humans and shifters. Each one I started I simply couldn't put down. I read most of these, including this one, in two days. One sitting couldn't be less than a few hours. This one I finished on 3 AM! was dead tired but couldn't for the life of me go to sleep without getting the whole story. 

The previous book ended in a sort of cliffhanger which I generally dislike but I couldn't fault Charlie, it was obvious that though Sloane was badly hurt he will survive (there are at least 3 more books planned for him and Dex not to mention another spin off series centered about these two). This book was suppose to be all about Dex taking care of Sloane in his vulnerable state, and yet we got something different, Dex almost avoiding Sloane (even though he is living in his house recovering!) so he could catch the guy who hurt Sloane and is threatening the other members of Destructive Delta who are basically his family (asides from Cael who is ACTUALLY his brother..). 

Sunday, November 6, 2016

Rack & Ruin (THIRDS #3) [Dex & Sloane] by Charlie Cochet

Another great installment! I'm loving this series SO MUCH! I read this one literally in one day, even one sitting. Can't get enough of the Destructive Delta team! Like the other books in the series, this book was fluid, funny, emotional, full of action, it simply has it all! 

Dex and Sloane are a couple there is no doubt about it, yet Sloane IS somehow sill holding back which is why when Dex accidentally says the "L" word it makes Sloane take a hike. The one is there for both of them, telling them to have faith in one another is no other than Ash! 

Saturday, November 5, 2016

Blood & Thunder (THIRDS #2) [Sloane & Dex] by Charlie Cochet

Great novel! Really enjoyed it! One of those books you are reluctant to put down. I really enjoyed the previous one, and this one was just as good. I loved getting to know the MC as well as the rest of the Destructive Delta team even better and now it's even more than just wanting Dex and Sloane to find their HEA, there are more I want to see getting there. This had more action in my mind but the real resolve only comes in the last few chapters in which we understand the global threat to THIRDS as well as a MAJOR reveal of Sloane's secrets. 

Friday, November 4, 2016

Hell & High Water (THIRDS #1) [Dex & Sloane] by Charlie Cochet

This book was SO AWESOME! It's been really a while since I read something resembling this series, or maybe I simply haven't and that's why I'm so excited! In a way it reminds me of "Cut & Run" by Abigail Roux because being a part of the THIRDS organization could resemble being apart of the FBI, being partners "against their will", both having the kind of sense of humor it's just FUN to read and see how the inuendoes affect the relationship and make it grow and yet that's where the resemblance ends.. First because HELLO this is a Paranormal Romance series, there are Therians, which is another word for "shifter". THIRDS means Therian-Human Intelligence Recon Defense Squadron, a special agency combining Therians and humans as partners dealing with the kind of crime the "regular" police simply can't handle. 

Monday, October 31, 2016

Midnight Untamed (Midnight Breed #14.5) [Ettore & Bella] by Lara Adrian

A nice, low in angst, short novella. I LOVE the Midnight Breed world and so getting more is always nice. I was surprised that in this one there was a little bit more connection to the plot of the previous full novel. Usually these novellas are TOTALLY off the main plot line or rather the character in the main series. Near the end of the previous one we met Trygg a Breed male who escorted an Atlantean to safety, and hey! here he was in this one, and we got an idea about him and also got to meet his brother Scythe who sounds like a REALLY interesting guy! Who doesn't love a wounded hero, ha?

But I"m losing myself to the surrounding without mentioning the plot! 

Defy the Dawn (Midnight Breed #14) [Brynne & Zael] by Lara Adrian

I kind of hate the fact I have to wait SO LONG for the novels in this series. The series is SO GOOD, the progression of the global plot, the new couples entwined with the older ones is such a joy to read! But sadly it's mostly once a year (with a little reminder with the added novella). I really enjoyed this one, both the MC - Brynne and Zael were intresting characters to get to know, and while their attraction and connection felt a little bit like an insta-love, that's something I don't have a problem with in this genre. I love the fact they are both storng characters, of mind and body. Brynne is no damsel in distress! Though she does need Zael, more than she wishes. 

We've met both MC in the previous installments, Brynne was helping the Order with a mission outside of her work as investigator in JUSTIS, also making her lose her job for acting outside of her authority, that's how we find Brynne in the first chapter. Feeling a bit out of sorts, now that the most important piece of her life seems to be missing... Zael the Atlantean came to Jordana's help when her father (a close friend of his) died and by that gaining the trust of the Order. He was also amazed to meet Dylan (Rio's mate) and realize she is actually his daughter. Lucan doesn't have a specific need for Zael at the moment so they mainly keep in touch about the problems Opus Nostrum and Selene (the queen of the Atlanteans) are causing. 

Saturday, October 29, 2016

Rookie Move (Brooklyn Bruisers #1) [Leo & Georgia] by Sarina Bowen

I LOVED this one! Made me really miss the "Ivy Years" series as well. Yet it WAS different because the whole setting wasn't the same (mostly not in college anymore..). I was really excited about this one, from when I heard it's going to be of Leo and Georgia. We've met/heard of them in the Ivy Years, Leo was mostly known as "Trevi" back there, he is also DJ's brother (the MC in the "Fifteenth Minute"), who is also a friend of Georgia so we've actually got a glimpse of Leo and Georgia's past. But it you haven't read the "Ivy Years" and so I'm talking nonsense here, don't feel bad, you really don't need to read anything before this one. Though I DO highly recommend the "Ivy Years", it's not a must for this series. 

Tuesday, October 25, 2016

Keepsake (True North #3) [Zach & Lark] by Sarina Bowen

Zach and Lark's story was such a beautiful journey. I loved Zach from the first installment in the series and so I was waiting to see who Sarina would pair him with. He is a unique guy. He is sweet and sensitive, insecure at times, and yet he is a manly man. His life wasn't easy but on the Shipley's farm he is finding his place and learning who he is and who he can be. Lark on the other hand, had a very easy life, she just made it more interesting with her constant adventures. The last one leaving her broken and in a desperate need of finding peace and quiet for a while - which is why she comes to help the Shipley's. She and May have been best friends since College so helping out a friend and also having her near her is the best May can offer Lark. 

There's interest and attraction between Lark and Zach right from the beginning, but Lark isn't ready for anything like that, though she enjoys admiring Zach from afar, Zach wouldn't make any move first because she is May's friend and also because Griffin would disapprove, not to mention Lark seems to have bigger issues to deal with, but also because he is quite inexperienced.. and yet as they spend more time together, and mostly as Zach is there for Lark in her time of need, something builds up. 

Friday, October 21, 2016

Spaces Between Notes by Kristina M. Sanchez

Utterly beautiful love story. It's the kind of book you simply don't want to put down - so I didn't :) I sat a full evening engulfing myself with Kristina's unique characters. I really enjoyed the love story, but above that I enjoyed getting to know Niko and Carys but also Niko's best friend Jamie, his siblings and even Carys' brother which isn't the easiest character to like in the book.. 

Monday, October 17, 2016

Poster Boy (Theta Alpha Gamma #5) [Toby & Jock] by Anne Tenino

This was another funny and sweet (and also the last) installment in the "Theta Alpha Gamma" frat house series. I enjoyed getting to know both Toby and Jock and having more of some of the others who are SO silly, it's really is impossible not to laugh about how CUTE they are. Yet this one wasn't a favorite. For me, it was too long. The whole story is somehow more focused on the frat boys than on the couple or at least it seemed that way because it takes WAY TOO LONG for Toby and Jock to find their way to one another. It made them both insecure in a way I thought mostly charming and sweet, mostly when it concerns Toby who unlike Jock is actually a confident guy.

Tuesday, October 11, 2016

Good Boy (Theta Alpha Gamma #4) [Brad & Sebastian] by Anne Tenino

I'm disappointed.  I mean, I KNEW where this one was going but it's not just the fact that Brad and Sebastian are s/D (now), that was half obvious to happen from the first installment in the series - "Frat Boy and Toppy" - in which we were introduced to them..It's the fact that I LIKED Sebastian before, yeah he had a little bit of a mean streak to him, but I thought it funny at the time, as he's being sarcastic, now I realize I just don't like him as a person and so him getting a HEA with a guy I actually DO really like - Brad - made their whole relationship turn sour in my mouth. 

Sunday, October 9, 2016

Sweet Young Thang (Theta Alpha Gamma #3) [Collin & Eric] by Anne Tenino

We've met Collin in the first installment, he was Brad's new roommate and fellow frat boy in Theta Alpha Gamma. He knew he was gay, even came on to Brad but he isn't out. That didn't seem to be possible to change for a while.. Not when his uncle Monty, the guy who raised him after his father died have so many expectations from him.. This book was the turning point for Collin, from the guy who agrees with his uncle just because he has to, to the guy who can stand for himself with a full frat house behind him. 

It all started when TAG decided to make it clear on their acceptance registration that gay men are welcome to be a part of the frat house. It seems the Alumni Committee wasn't so into the idea not to mention they were afraid people would take actions against the frat house because of this change. TAG weren't about to back down no matter what, and I gotta say they had pretty cool ideas how to make a stand with their beliefs. Even though it was still funny as hell to see those guys and how they conduct serious business :D 

Saturday, October 8, 2016

Love, Hypothetically (Theta Alpha Gamma #2) [Paul & Trevor] by Anne Tenino

This was somehow a bit different from the previous one, I mean, it was still a funny read, but it had a lot more drama to it and I guess, Paul isn't a guy it's easy to love (or even like).. he is bitter and annoying most of the time but I think this short novella was his turning point. Which was hilarious to read :)

Paul and Trevor were high school sweethearts but since Trevor was a jock interested in playing professionally he couldn't be out. So though it felt very serious between the two, Paul was "the dirty little secret", having to deal with Trevor having a girlfriend and not being able to truly BE with Trevor. Then the ultimate act of betrayal from Trevor brought us the Paul we've met (9 years later) as Sebastian's friend and roommate who HATES jocks. 

Friday, October 7, 2016

Frat Boy and Toppy (Theta Alpha Gamma #1) [Brad & Sebastian] by Anne Tenino

This was a FUN read, easily a Laugh Out Loud romance, not heavy, very mild on the drama, almost no angst, all the characters are easy going and FUN. FUN is THE word for this book. It's a light weight romance, we only get a HFN but it's enough because it's SO SWEET and funny. I"m not usually impressed with college jocks and them acting stupid, but hearing Brad's thoughts was GREAT. Sebastian was more mature, age-wise as well as generally, more serious but he was so damn sweet towards Brad I couldn't NOT love him as well. It got a bit kinky but really, not too much (considering frat boys are full of hormones and there's quite a lot of sex in this not so long novel).

Brad just realized he's gay. He might have realized it sooner but he was doing his best ignoring it, mainly with looking as though he is screwing around. Well, besides, Ashley, they were together months.. but didn't have sex.. he didn't want to.. Looking between Sebastian the HOT PA in his History class and Ashley it's no brainer really, only getting TO Sebastian is another matter entirely... 

Thursday, October 6, 2016

Chase the Sun (Free Fall #2) [Jaime & Conner] by Christina Lee & Nyrae Dawn

This was a sweet "coming of age" novel. I liked  both Jaime and Conner, they sound different when we first get to know them, but as the plot unfolds, it's easy to see they are perfect for one another, and the past they shared together only make it more clear why being together is the only thing that could make sense mostly to Conner but also to Jaime. 

Jaime and Conner grew up together in a small town, their knew each other from small age since Conner used to stay a lot at his uncle's house which is the one next to Jaime's family. Conner is a care-free kind of guy who likes to enjoy life to the fullest, it's the way he was raised by his hippie parents. Jaime on the other hand, is a family oriented guy, an introvert. He works for his father's garage, lives at home with his parents, helping out his mother who has MS. He doesn't go out much and when he does it's usually to a bar with his best friend or a gay bar in the next town to hook up. In the small town he lives in, being gay isn't something he can really flaunt. 

Thursday, September 29, 2016

Rented Heart (Rented Heart, #1) [Zac & Liam] by Garrett Leigh

I liked this book but can't say I loved it. I enjoyed the writing as I always do with Garrett's books but the total vibe of the book was too, mmm, well, sad? depressing? Also though I could feel the connection between the two characters I think they connected too quickly and too much on the basis of "acceptance" and "loneliness" and less because it was Liam and Zac if it makes any sense.. 

Liam recently lost his husband whom he loved dearly. He left him the business they founded together but doing his ex's work doesn't fill him with accomplishment it just leaves him sad and lonely. Meeting by chance Zac - the rent boy - brings him a night he is not as lonely as he was before. 

Tuesday, September 27, 2016

Twelve Truths and a Lie by Christina Lee

It's been a while since I had the time to just sit and relax with a great book. So when I knew I have a sort of a weekend "off" I intended to do exactly that. I'm so happy I chose this one :) It was exactly what I needed. This story was HOT as hell and the story itself, the characters were a JOY to read. I loved both MC, there was something so real about them and they TOTALLY deserved one another. 

Cameron Miller and Aurora Jones met through mutual friends. It didn't seem as though there could be anything going on between the two considering Aurora isn't the kind of girl to fool around and she isn't dating ANYONE this year due to bad boyfriend decisions and Cameron isn't doing any one-night-stands for half a year and relationship? he had one of those and it didn't end well to say the least. 


Saturday, September 10, 2016

An End & A New Beginning

I've been away from this blog and generally from reading the past month. I don't even know what was happening before last week.. it's all a blur at the moment...

Last week, on the 1st of September I lost my precious Eric. He was 7 years old Blue Great Dane, happy, full of life and energy and yet, something deep inside of him wasn't okay and so in minutes he was gone and I was left broken hearted. 

Eric was born at my house, in my arms. I used to call him - "my happiness", and that he was. We had an amazing connection. We understood each other, we accepted one another with our flaws and difficulties. Losing him was so hard. 

The previous Thursday I had him cremated and now he sits peacefully in my room and it almost helps, feeling as if he is physically here somehow. 



Wednesday, September 7, 2016

The Burnt Toast B&B (Bluewater Bay #5) [Ginsberg & Derrick] By Heidi Belleau & Rachel Haimowitz

When I started this one I really enjoyed it, I could see how fun this one would be even from the synopsis yet something somehow went wrong for me. I think it was too slow to develop or maybe too much of an inner dialogue, one I would almost predict for each of them. The story was sweet, I enjoyed seeing Derrick change and grow as a person, enabling to become more accepting of himself and through that accepting of others. I liked the fact Ginsberg was a trans, it added more dimension to the story, to Ginsberg insecurities or rather his lack of patience to anyone who can't accept him for who he is and how he is. Strangely enough, Derrick didn't mind that much he was actually wonderful about it,  it was everything else he was a jerk about.. 

Tuesday, August 16, 2016

Lone Wolf (Bluewater Bay #4) / Moonstruck [Hunter & Kevin] By Aleksandr Voinov & L.A. Witt

I had high hopes for this one..  I added this series initially because I loved the collaboration I've read of L.A. Witt with Aleksandr Voinov. I thought the other books in the series would be a nice bonus so when I started this book and almost from the start couldn't connect with either Hunter or Kevin I didn't know in which unknown parallel universe I'm at.. I know this book will appeal to certain people, but I'm not one of them :( I tried giving this book enough of a chance but at the 25% point I decided to finally let it go. 

This book is a sort of the total wet dream of people who are into FanFic and SURELY for anyone who've wrote any. I have never read FanFic before and don't actually feel like reading any. I do appreciate the whole idea behind it, and I think new authors can start there and grow with a known universe at first, before jumping into writing their own fiction, but generally speaking, it never drew me in. I love many authors, I wish I could meet them but it doesn't seem likely (being across an ocean and a sea..) but I don't think I've ever read a series I was THAT obsessed about to truly participate in group discussions. I do follow some authors' groups but I'm not really active. It's just great getting the updates and such and naturally meeting more people who are into the genres I read. But the authors? Yeah they're great but I don't idolize them. I appreciate them, I respect the hell out of them. But it stays there.. which is why (I think..) this book passed right by me without making an impact 

Saturday, August 13, 2016

Hell on Wheels (Bluewater Bay #3) [Nash & Spencer] By Z.A. Maxfield

What a sweet sweet story! I loved everything about it! It was an easy read, wasn't angsty and yet there was enough emotion and the relationship buildup, much like the first one, it was about friendship before it was about love. Nash and Spenser were sweet together, they had so much in common but also they had so much to give one another, teach each other without even realizing the great lesson in life their short friendship brought to both of them.

Tuesday, August 9, 2016

There's Something About Ari (Bluewater Bay #2) [Buck & Ari] By L.B. Gregg

This novella was absolutely beautiful! I enjoyed every minute of it! This is my first (and won't be the last!) from L.B. Gregg, honestly it's been a while since I've read a book by an author I don't know, I just somehow got stuck on reading full book lists of my favorites and so I'm happy I've read this one and got acquainted with someone new to "hunt" ;) This story was solely told from Buck's POV which was perfect. Yeah getting both POVs is always nice but I think the full impact of their relationship and emotions was done beautifully through Buck's eyes and mostly his mind since he is a man of few words (unlike Ari..)

Sunday, August 7, 2016

Starstruck (Bluewater Bay #1) [Levi & Carter] by L.A. Witt

This was a nice start to the series. It felt honest and sweet from both Levi and Carter's POV. It took me a while to get through this one even though it's not long, when I think about it, it's me having hard time concentrating and so reading less, but also though I really did enjoy Levi and Carter, the story was somehow missing. I'm not sure what really, because I really enjoyed the writing and the way Levi and Carter started and the way the relationship progressed. 


Sunday, July 31, 2016

To Have and to Hold (Returning Home #3) [Trina & Hunter] by Serena Bell

PERFECTION, This book drawn me in from the first page, not allowing me to let it go until I was finished (which is why I'm DEAD on my feet today..). I LOVED both previous installments in the series, there is something about wounded soldiers/heros, right? Yet it's different with how much realistic this story feels, or just how much emotion this story (as with the previous ones) sucked out of me. Trina and Hunter deserved each other SO MUCH, and losing each other the way they did left ME broken. Both didn't know how to fight for one another even though it was obvious from the start the WANT to. 

Saturday, July 30, 2016

Campaigning for Christopher (The Winslow Brothers #4) [Christopher & Julianne] by Katy Regnery

THIS is my favorite Winslow book :) I had a feeling it's going this way quite early and considering how much I LOVED Preston and Elise's book (yeah will all the times I was annoyed as HELL included! hehe) that's saying something. In a way there are similarities between the two, but as two different characters in the book say at certain points what Elise did is NOTHING like what Julianne did and yet the thing that IS similar is her need to make amends and how sweetly and beautifully she does exactly that. 

While Christoper have been mean to Julianne quite a lot I think his behavior could totally be understood especially when you read his inner turmoil. It's one thing to hate someone who hurt you BADLY, it's a totally another deal when she won't go away but while she is doing the best that she can to make amends he is distracted but how much he is attracted to her, knowing trusting her is NOT possible, and it certainly doesn't help that while getting to know her he liked EVERYTHING about her.. For Julianne it's the same, or maybe worse? She hurt him badly and she needed to make amends and so she is at his disposal until election day, posing as his girlfriend. Trouble is, as SHE gets to know HIM, she loves everything about him as well and knowing he won't ever trust her while she is falling for him, knowing in weeks he will be gone from her life, is making her miserable. 

Wednesday, July 27, 2016

Crazy about Cameron (The Winslow Brothers #3) [Cameron & Margaret] by Katy Regnery

This was a fun sweet read. I enjoyed meeting both Margaret and Cameron and loved getting a taste of the Story family (Margaret naturally but also one of her 5 sisters - Priscilla). The family situation there seems tense.. so I'm happy it worked out so beautifully for Margaret, getting her heart's desire not only with Cameron but also with her dream occupation - building her own winery. Cameron is in a different yet similar place in life, he is unhappy with his work and even though he CRAVES Margaret and have been for most of his life, with how much is work is costing him (time wise) there is no way he can commit to anything more, especially not a relationship that will surely suffer from his demanding company.