Sunday, March 10, 2024

February 19 - March 9, 2024

 Well, I had a great time a Coastal Magic and am counting the days until we can meet again.  Also, looking forward to June and the start of the new reading challenge.  I was shocked when I found out I came in fifth for the 2024 Reading Challenge.  So excited.  And now onto the reviews.  


Jalen & Colby: An MMM Christmas Daddy RomanceJalen & Colby: An MMM Christmas Daddy Romance by HJ Welch
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This story has the most adorable meet cute. I love the way these three men fit together. And I just want to give Colby a hug. The epilogue is a very satisfying end to the story.

 

View all my reviews The Castle (Love in O'Leary #5.5)The Castle by May Archer
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This is a delightful story of best friends who finally get together. Dare knows how he feels but Brian realizes his feeling just in time. Another O’Leary match-up. I listen to audio which was very sell done.

View all my reviews Billionaire's Pet: Pride Pet PlayBillionaire's Pet: Pride Pet Play by Lynn Michaels
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This book has a lot of starts and stop as Ward and Jax figure out their relationship. They must overcome outside pressure but also some of their own thoughts.


 

View all my reviews Aftermath (Vino & Veritas, #5)Aftermath by L.A. Witt
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Both of these men have so many insecurities but you are routing for them because they can help each other. I really like how Brent’s friends really lay some truth on him and got him to really listen. This has a sweet satisfying ending. I listened to the audio and it was well done.

View all my reviews Rescue Me (Heathens Ink #1)Rescue Me by K.M. Neuhold
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This story starts with a very dramatic event. Thane seems to be drawn to Madden from the beginning. I also like how Madden is strong enough to know he needed time to care for himself. I listened to the audio and it was very well done.

View all my reviews Learning to Trust (The Education of the Heart #1)Learning to Trust by M.A. Innes
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I just love the way that Leon just falls into his role of Daddy without even realizing it. Morgan is adorable with his ostrich and alien dadd thoughts. This is a very enjoyable story. I listened to the audio version and it well done.

View all my reviews The Light (Love in O'Leary, #5.6)The Light by May Archer
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This is a sweet second chance romance. These are two wonderful men that had bad timing. But second chances are great.

Updated Review: This is a short story of taking a chance on one more chance. Mark is headed up the mountain with the backing of the rest of O’Leary. Luckily things go better with Fran than he thought. I listened to this story audio and it was well done.

View all my reviews Booklover (Vino & Veritas, #6)Booklover by J.E. Birk
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Both of the main characters deal with underestimating their own worth in different ways. Briar has been through so much that has left him feeling unworthy. Jamie is a bit trapped by love and duty. All of this leads to some dramatic moments and drama. But the ending is soft and full of love. Listened to the audio version and enjoyed it very much.

View all my reviews Icebound Rivals (Arctic Titans of Northwood U, #4)Icebound Rivals by Hayden Hall
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I hadn’t read the previous books in the series but I was still able to enjoy this story. Greyson uses the bet with his team mates as a shield to pursue Avery. Of course as a reader you can picture how that’s going to go. But the story draws you in and gives you the feels as the drama plays out. The ending was sweet and loving. I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.

View all my reviews The Flirty Vet (Vet Shop Boys Down Under, #1)The Flirty Vet by Casey Cox
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Wilby and Col’s meet cute is unique and it sets up much that happens later on. I Also appreciate that there isn’t an easy fix for all of Wilby’s problems. This is a story of two grown men who discover that their quirks seem to work well together. I received and ARC copy in exchange for a honest review.
 

View all my reviewsThree Stupid WeddingsThree Stupid Weddings by Ann Gallagher
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This is a great friends to lover story. I also like that this story features two ACE characters so there story is really about how much they care for each other. The events at all the weddings added a lot of humor to the story. I listened to audio version and enjoyed very much.

View all my reviews His Sassy Omega (Sweet Alps Mates #1His Sassy Omega (Sweet Alps Mates #1 by Raiven Matthews
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I love the interplay between the two main characters. Being fated doesn’t equal insta-love. They have a lot to overcome. There are some moments that will have you grabbing a tissue. But then there are others that that will have you laughing. Such a wonderful story.
 

View all my reviews Dragon's Honor (Irresistible Dragons #2)Dragon's Honor by Nora Phoenix
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I’m glad I knew before I started this book that it would be a cliff hanger. But wow what an ending. I like how these men are drawn to each other even when they aren’t sure. Their relationship is softer then some of the others in this series. I can’t wait to start the next book. I loved listening to this tory in audio.




View all my reviewsIs It Over Yet?Is It Over Yet? by L.A. Witt
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This story was a nail biter. There was a lot of back and forth with their interactions with each other. Derek has his reasons but Reese is also sorry. They really seem set on hurting each other. I also like that it didn’t make light of the struggle to overcome damaging actions. I listen to the audio version and it was well done.
 

View all my reviewsGoing Commando (Heathens Ink, #2)Going Commando by K.M. Neuhold
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This could have been the sad story of the friend realizing too late they had feelings or the new relationship failing. But somehow the timing aligns perfectly for all three men to just fit together. Nash’s family are confused but accepting. The surprise family drama makes an interesting plot twist. Love the ending. Listened to the well done audio copy.

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Sunday, February 18, 2024

February 11 - 18, 2024

 

A Little Christmas! Matty's SecretA Little Christmas! Matty's Secret by J.P. Sayle
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I like how Weston was cautious and didn’t come on too strong or too fast. I also like how Matty was able tot express his needs. Their family dynamics also helps explains their personalities. A nice Christmas read even if it’s February.


 

View all my reviews InfluencedInfluenced by Felice Stevens
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Bryce has been knocked to the bottom of the barrel. But a chance encounter gives him the chance to restart. Matty has been hiding including from himself. But together they both begin a new life for both of them.

 

View all my reviews How Many Times Do I Have to Say I'm Sorry? (Maudlin Falls, #1)How Many Times Do I Have to Say I'm Sorry? by Lesli Richardson
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Desi is finally ready to get his life back on track. He is going to try and make things right but he has a lot to make up for. I do like that we get to see that beyond what happened between him and Tom, Desi is a good guy. Tom shows his level of love throughout the book. This story has a satisfying HEA.

View all my reviews Stick Shift (Big Bull Mechanics #3)Stick Shift by K.M. Neuhold
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Journey went to see the world while Red just did his job and kept his thoughts to himself. But Journey returns and things seem to take on a life of their own. This is a great friends to lovers. And the animals make such great side characters.

 

View all my reviews Renovating the ModelRenovating the Model by Nora Phoenix
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Tiago thinks he’s just back in his hometown for a reunion and a maybe a hook up. But when he sees a house for sale it will all change for him as realizes what he really wants. He ends up coming home and finding way more than just a hook up. I listened to the audio version which I enjoyed.
 

View all my reviews The Vampire Bounty Hunter's Unexpected Catch (A Nocturne Falls Universe story)The Vampire Bounty Hunter's Unexpected Catch by Larissa Emerald
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

This is the third book of Larissa Emerald’s that takes place in the Nocturne Falls universe. It was well written but I didn’t like it as much as the first two books I read. I felt it laced the humor I enjoyed in the other ones. Also, there isn’t really any closure on the budding romance of the main characters.

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So excited. Only a few more sleeps until I head to Daytona for the 2024 Coastal Magic Convention.  *I can't wait until June to get started on next year's challenge.   And between now and then I'll be working on the rest of my TBR piles.  

Friday, February 9, 2024

February 6-10, 2024

 

Keeping Her SecretKeeping Her Secret by Sarah Nicolas
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This YA book explores the idea that the one who seems to have everything might actually have the most fear of being themselves. Riya is strong and knows herself and what she wants. But Courtney is too afraid of who she is. We see the relationship have lots of ups and down. The final chapter is a good wrap up. #CMCon24
 

View all my reviews Jon's Spooky Corpse Conundrum (Jon's Mysteries, #3)Jon's Spooky Corpse Conundrum by A.J. Sherwood
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Jon’s on the case again but this time there are some new twists and surprises. It takes a lot to find a murder and to find out there are some lies that have been affecting your past. Its a good thing Jon has Donovan by his side to get him through. #CMCon24

 

View all my reviews The Inspector Claims The Vampiress (A Nocturne Falls Universe story)The Inspector Claims The Vampiress by Larissa Emerald
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

A sweet little romance between two very different people. Veronica isn’t sure at first and there are some problems along the way. Lance has decide what he really feels. But this short story delivers a HEA #CMCon24

 

View all my reviews Killer Heart (Cursed Hearts #1)Killer Heart by Rhys Lawless
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Wow, this story has so much tension. I felt like there were a stack of layers that just kept unfolding. This story is well written and did such a great job of keeping me on the edge of my seat. I listened to the audio version and it was very well done. #CMCon24

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Well tomorrow is the last day to submit reviews for the Coastal Magic Reading Challenge.  I have one more I might be able to sneak in tomorrow but this is probably a wrap for the 2024 Challenge.  And in 1.5 weeks I'm off to Dayton Beach for a weekend of fun.  

I did it.  I got one more book finished this morning so that will be the close of the Coastal Magic Reading Challenge 24 for me.  I can't wait to start on Reading Challenge 25 this summer.  If you want to learn more about Coastal Magic there is still time to sign up or stop for the book signing.  And you can watch the website for information for next year's challenge coming up in a few months.  Click the link to check it out Coastal Magic Convention.    #CMCon24. #CMConReadingChallenge24 

And now the last review:


The Shaman Charms The Shifter (A Nocturne Falls Universe)The Shaman Charms The Shifter by Larissa Emerald
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Sasha has a problem and hopes the witches of Noturne Falls can help. At the same time Kianso is trying to live a “normal” life and shut off his powers. But when their lives collide they make a new where forward where they both get what they need. I really like how Kianso promised Sasha is love no matter what the outcome was. This is a short story with lots of heart and humor. #CMCon24

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Monday, February 5, 2024

January 29 - February 5, 2024

 

West on Grainger (Sandy Bottom Bay #2)West on Grainger by K.C. Burn
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This story is a journey of both the new love between Wendall and Kyle but also a mystery that seems to be growing by the day. I love how there is such a rich cast of supporting characters that add so many more layers to the story. I have enjoyed this series so far and look forward to more happenings from Sandy Bottom Bay. #CMCon24

View all my reviews The Ghost and the Graveyard (Knight Games, #1)The Ghost and the Graveyard by Genevieve Jack
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This is a story with lots of action and big reveals. Grateful thins she’s living and ordinary life but it all changes in an instant. Be aware that this story ends with many things unresolved. But if you like witches, vampires, and zombies you will really enjoy this story. I listened to the audio version and it was great experience. #CMCon24

View all my reviews A Literal Mess (An Allie Cobb Mystery, #1)A Literal Mess by J.C. Kenney
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I’m not usually a cozy mystery reader but this story was so much fun. It was great following Allie around town as she tries to find the murder. There are some surprises and action. I also like how I didn’t know who to blame until Allie exposes them. #CMCon24


View all my reviews Sheltered: Part 1 of the Sinking Man SeriesSheltered: Part 1 of the Sinking Man Series by Justin Leslie
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

A warning this book does end in a cliff hanger so be prepared. This is a haunting tale of the world turned upside down in a plague/zombie kind of way. Ben has been holding down the fort waiting for his wife to return. But suddenly things take a sudden turn. There is action, heart, and some nasty fluids. Not my normal go to but his story is well written and did draw me in. Now I just have to decide if I can handle the rest of it. The audio version was very well done. #CMCon24

View all my reviews Jon's Crazy Head-Boppin' Mystery (Jon's Mysteries, #2)Jon's Crazy Head-Boppin' Mystery by A.J. Sherwood
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Another exciting adventure in solving crime. We also get some new characters in the mix. Sometimes it takes a whole team working together to get the job done. I listened to the audio version and it was very well done. #CMCon24

 

View all my reviews The Last Drop: A Table for Two NovellaThe Last Drop: A Table for Two Novella by Layla Reyne
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I think Tony didn’t realize how people really cared from his sister down to his bosses who showed him the ad. Grey has a lot of faith without a lot to back it up. But it pays off well for both of them. This is a story of finding and excepting love. I also think I would love to be able to visit Dram. #CMCon24
 

View all my reviews Power Play: A Billionaire's Club Story (The Billionaire's Club: New Orleans Book 2)Power Play: A Billionaire's Club Story by Mallery Malone
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Macy and Raphael have a lot of old issues that need to be discussed. This is a great second chance romance story where both characters have grown and changed. This is a short but sweet romance with two strong characters. #CMCon24
 

View all my reviews Take Down (Billionaire's Club: New Orleans #3)Take Down by Mallery Malone
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I’ve enjoyed this whole series but I felt this story had bigger emotional punch. This wasn’t just a second chance romance. This story is about righting a big injustice. I love how strong Karina is. I also like how you get to see how caring Gabriel really is. This was a great wrap up to the series. #CMCon24

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Sunday, January 28, 2024

January 22 - 28, 2024

 

The Year of Cecily (From Sunset Park, With Love, #1)The Year of Cecily by Lisa Lin
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Cecily has big plans for taking charge of her life. I love all the ways it seems to be going off track. Jeffery’s never stop thinking about her and wanting a second chance. The fun is when these two paths cross. Great romance over some bump and family filled roads. #CMCon24
 

View all my reviews Deadly DeliveryDeadly Delivery by Jeanne Adams
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

There was a lot of suspense built into this short story. So many pieces have to come together to save the day. I like what a strong woman Diedre is. #CMCon24


 

View all my reviews The Syndicate WarsThe Syndicate Wars by Sabine Barclay
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

This was a great introduction to several interlocking series. This was a new author to me and it is well written. And while I don’t think I would enjoy these “mafia” style stories this was a great way to try them out. And if you like dark romance I think you would really enjoy these series. #CMCon24
 

View all my reviews How I Magically Messed Up My Life in Four Freakin' Days (The Tale of Bryant Adams, #1)How I Magically Messed Up My Life in Four Freakin' Days by Megan O'Russell
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This is a fun look at everything that can go wrong when you find something that doesn’t belong to you. Poor Bryant’s life changes in an instant. They story also ends with the promise of more adventures to come. #CMCon24

View all my reviews Take Me if You Dare (Birthday Dare #1)Take Me if You Dare by Nina Crespo
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I love the back and forth between Ethan and Jasmine. They are both afraid of what They are feeling. I think the birthday dare was a great way to bring them together. #CMCon24

 

View all my reviews The Lone Wolf's Wish (Sedona Pack #0.5)The Lone Wolf's Wish by Lisa Kessler
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This story has several plot twists for a shorter story. I love the fact that Shane and Piper find each other. I can’t wait to read more of this series. I listened to the audio book and enjoyed it very much. #CMCon24
 

View all my reviews Last Stop (Sighted #1)Last Stop by Jessica Cage
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Josephine seems to be living an ordinary life on the edge of her dreams. But that’s when things take a giant turn into the weird zone. This story ends with the beginning of a whole new life for Josephine. #CMCon24

View all my reviews Her Christmas WishHer Christmas Wish by Karmen Lee
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This is a short holiday story with an old crush. Rocky is surprised by her sister’s surprise but she’s taking action. There is lots of sweet love a holiday reunion that goes well. #CMCon24

 

View all my reviews Knock Out: A Billionaire's Club Story (The Billionaire's Club: New Orleans Book 1)Knock Out: A Billionaire's Club Story by Mallery Malone
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Bas is fighting for another chance and Rennie is fighting her feelings. This story has an emotional punch as they both learn to understand each other better. This is a short but really satisfying story. #CMCon24

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The Struggle is Real 

I've been trying really hard to get my Coastal Magic Reading Challenge to the next level.   I might not making but I'm going to have a lot of fun reading anyway.  If you would like to join me at the Coastal Magic Convention or to watch for the information for next year's Reading Challenge check out the Coastal Magic Website.  

Sunday, January 21, 2024

January 15 - 21, 2024

 

Lucky Break: A One Lucky Night NoveletteLucky Break: A One Lucky Night Novelette by Aria Kane
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Derek tried to honor what others had requested but was left without the girl he wanted. Andrea never understood why he went away and was just mad. But a chance meeting gives them the opportunity for a new start. This is a short but sweet 2nd chance romance. #CMCon24
 

View all my reviews Riding Heartbreak RoadRiding Heartbreak Road by Kiernan Kelly
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

I debated with myself about posting this review. I loved the majority of the story. The dramatic timing is well done. I thought Jake’s wording at the beginning was a bit crude but it fit his character and the way he was raised so it is understandable. Then the epilogue played and it felt so dark without a spark of hope or a positive memorial that is spoiled the whole story for me. I felt that the story had an overall message of hope and love overcoming even the worst life can give. But after the epilogue the violence and hateful talk took over that love and hope of the story. So I’m giving it 3 because most of the story was very well written but the ending hit me hard and really felt depressing which could just be me. I listened to the audio version was so very well done. #CMCon24

View all my reviews A Little Christmas: Logan's Secret: An MM Age Play Christmas RomanceA Little Christmas: Logan's Secret: An MM Age Play Christmas Romance by Joe Satoria
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

It was easy to see how Logan was a bit lost with the way his life has gone. Tome is the right person at the right time. They fit each other well. This is the start of a new relationship.

 

View all my reviews Jon's Downright Ridiculous Shooting Case (Jon's Mysteries, #1)Jon's Downright Ridiculous Shooting Case by A.J. Sherwood
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This story has a mix of humor and action. I love the strength of Donovan’s caring. I like how the relationship is a part of the story but the cases are also a great mystery to solve. Can’t wait to listen to more. I listened to the audio copy that was really well done. #CMCon24
 

View all my reviews Keegan's Point (The Good Bad Guys, #1)Keegan's Point by H.D. Smith
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I’ll be honest I picked this up because it was a short book by one of the authors I needed to read for the Coastal Magic Reading Challenge. BUT to my surprise I really loved this story. Charlie is an ordinary kid who gets to have an exciting adventure. There is some humor but also lots of dramatic moments. I like how we see Charlie’s personal growth. It seems that Charlie’s story is wrapped up but there are hints of more stories to come. #CMCon24

View all my reviews Seder in Space and Other TalesSeder in Space and Other Tales by J.D. Blackrose
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Even though I’m not Jewish I could enjoy these story that mix humor with heart. Each one seems to have their own little messages. I think my favorite was the first one Seder in Space. #CMCon24

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Wow I can't believe we are only one month away from the Coastal Magic Convention.  I've really been trying to push to get those finally point between now and February 15.  Wish me luck.  

Monday, January 15, 2024

January 8 - 14, 2024

 

The Five-Day ReunionThe Five-Day Reunion by Mona Shroff
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I love the fact that they didn’t just end up back together easily. There was a lot of work and communication that had to happen. It made the ending very satisfying. I listened to the audio version and it was really well done. #CMCon24

 

View all my reviews Five Minutes Longer (Enhanced World, #1)Five Minutes Longer by Victoria Sue
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

There is so much action in this story. Talon is strong in enhanced ways but we also see how much strength Finn has as well in his character. There have so much they need to work through personally as well as in their work lives. I love the fact that the romance does seem to be working out. I listened to the audio version and it was well done. #CMCon24

View all my reviews A Little Christmas: Oscar's SecretA Little Christmas: Oscar's Secret by Jena Wade
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

The backstory of how Oscar gets his new home is a little bittersweet. I like how in this story it’s the daddy who is a bit insecure. The ending is sweet and happy. If you are looking for a sweet, low angst story this would be a good pick.

 

View all my reviews A Daddy for Christmas: RyuA Daddy for Christmas: Ryu by Layla Dorine
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

A sweet story of a grumpy daddy and a sunshine boy brought together. It seems to be a mistaken delivery that works out so well for both of them. There are some wonderful friends we also get to meet in this story.

 

View all my reviews Gambling MenGambling Men by Amy Lane
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I like the way the story develops as we also see glimpses of how they got where they are now. I love Jas’s back story. Quent seems so pleased with the start of their relationship. They poker analogies were often a way to get insight of the characters. I listened to the audio version and it very well done. #CMCon24

View all my reviews A Little Christmas! Travis's Secret: An MM Age Play Christmas Daddy RomanceA Little Christmas! Travis's Secret: An MM Age Play Christmas Daddy Romance by Aria Grace
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

It was wonderful that Travis’s one moment of being brave enough to go to the club is the start of something special. I also really like the calm way Jared handled each situation as it comes up. It really helped keep Travis from being overwhelmed.
 

View all my reviews A Daddy for Christmas: BrightonA Daddy for Christmas: Brighton by T.L. Travis
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

A sad moment for Edward turns out to be something very special for both men. It was fun to watch Brighton discover all the things he wanted in a relationship. They are such a great pair.

 

View all my reviews Bailey (A Daddy For Christmas)Bailey by A.W. Scott
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This story has a great buildup to the start of their relationship. They are well suited for each other. The big reveal scene is adorable. Another great holiday read.

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I'm making a race to get as many points as I can toward the Coastal Magic Reading Challenge for 2024.  There are two more levels to reach.  The first goal I will need about 30 point and 70 for the final level.  I don't think I'll make it to the top but I will try my best.  And I'm already looking forward to next year.  #CMCon24. #CMCon24ReadingChallenge

If you want to join me for all the fun check out 

http://CoastalMagicConvention.com/registration