Week 51 - 52

 And now we come to the end of another great year of reading.

A Little Christmas: Blake by Wendy Rathbone
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I like how this story starts with just a hint of friendship between Blake and Eliot. There is something that just clicks between the two of them. It was interesting to see that Eliot doesn't push and even makes sure Blake's private space seems safe. Another fun Christmas read.

 

View all my reviews A Cutie for Kinkmas by Morticia Knight
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Ethan seems to live a charmed life but he is living without something he really wanted/needed for his life. Lyon also has needs he fills are out of reach. I love how they really just fit together. The final chapter of the story is such a great way of seeing the happiness.

 

View all my reviews A Little Christmas: Finn by A.W. Scott
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I love how Finn in doing his best to take care of himself but life is just knocking him down. He seems to be at such a low moment and then there is Bell like he stepped out of the coloring book. I love how caring Bellamy is. I also love his own family. This is a sweet story of two people finding what they weren't even looking for. I made a playlist from the list of songs the author had a the beginning of the story and enjoyed listening to it on my walk while reading the book.

View all my reviews Rudolph the Rescue Jack Russell by Andrew Grey
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This is short but very sweet story of Alex who finds more than he bargained for when he decides to work on one of his fears. It was an instalove kind of holiday story but a great way to relax before heading over to the in-laws.

 

View all my reviews A Kitten for Kinkmas by R.J. Moray
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This two seem like they would not be a good match. Indeed they have people telling them how they don't suit. But sometimes a connection doesn't follow logic. I love how these two just work despite all the the things seeming to point them in different directions.

 

View all my reviews A Little Christmas: Noah by Jamie Kassel
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I love the way that these two just fit together and their friend had seen it way before it happened. They both end up very different from who they thought they wanted. Both are really very kind hearted men and I'm glad that things worked out for them.

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Week 46 - 50, 2022

 November 

Window Dressing by Jodi Payne
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I love this story and the way their relationship develops. It starts with some misunderstanding and gets better from there. There were so many moments when things that I just wanted to cheer when things made a turn around for Sterling. The ending of this story was perfect.

 

View all my reviews The Nerd Jock Conundrum by Hayden Hall
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I think what makes this story from others in this trope is that both main characters need to come out in their own ways. Both Troy and Jackson have to be there for the other one. We see them reevaluating everything throughout the story. I was very happy with the conclusion of the story.
I listened to audio version of this story and enjoyed it very much.



View all my reviews Dashing & Daddy by Gianni Holmes
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This story turns many preconceived ideas upside down. Mason is struggling but it isn't for want of being better he just lacks the direction and help. He is at his core an artistic and caring person. Dillion despite his age is driven, successful, and a care giver. They just fit so well together and the history doesn't stop the connection from growing. This story had me cheering both of them but especially Mason on.

View all my reviews A Helping of Love by Andrew Grey
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This story reflects a lot of new beginnings and the way it moves there relationship forward as well. Sometimes being willing to try new things is the one thing that will bring about a series of changes. I love the way they bring out the best in each other. There is one big twist and it was interesting to see how that played out. I really enjoyed this story.
I listened to the audio version and it was very well done.

View all my reviews Treasures & Found Family by Sammi Cee
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I like how there are people in their lives that are doing their best to set them up. They slowly build as friends first. I like how each one helps the other deal with the past.

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December 

Cowboy Protection by Jodi Payne
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I love how their lives become meshed together. They work together so well. I love the way they become a couple and how they leave the doors open to those who need sometime away. You can just picture their future life together.

 

View all my reviews The Christmas Leap by Keira Andrews
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Another great fake it until you make it. There is a bit of history between these two so it is easy for them to be comfortable with each. I also like how the other encourage them in their caper. I listened to audio version and it was a lot of fun.

 

View all my reviews Stanley's Christmas Redemption by Gabbi Grey
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I love the way that Stanley's life is upended. But I also like that even though at first he looks like he will be selfish he quickly steps up and embraces the changes in his life. I also love how Justin is willing to put in work in helping Stanley even if it doesn't work out for him.
I listened to the audio presentation and it was very well done.

View all my reviews The Gift of Forever by Felice Stevens
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I love seeing the way that their life just keeps getting better and better. This was a quick but enjoyable listen.

 

View all my reviews The Holiday Trap by Roan Parrish
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

The flow of this story is so much fun. I listened to the audio version and the switching of the narrators really helped you to stay in the moment of the characters. I love how both main characters find both their person and their best life. It also reflects on how the way you see life can effect your interaction with others but also highlight that if your thinking isn't really working for you a new way of thinking is possible. I also love how Greta heading back to Maine help Truman get Truman's new life forward as well. Won't tell what it is but the kick-a** moment on the way to the airport was so perfect.

View all my reviews Santa's Secrets by K.C. Wells
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This story is so special and I love the inspiration for the story. I saw the commercial on YouTube and found it moving and the story didn't disappoint. I love the interpretation. This was a great feels story.

 

View all my reviews Don't Plan to Stay by Kaje Harper
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Wow, I wasn't expected so many wonderful feels. Pro tip have some tissues available. There are so many wonderful moments and so many things to work through to work forward. It also doesn't sugar coat the idea be an ex-con comes with both emotional and practical problems that must be worked for. The award for most improved character goes to Adam's dad. Also although you don't really meet her until near the end I really like the way Nate's wife reacts to Donnie. This story was such a wonderful read.

View all my reviews Daddy's Christmas Wish by Victoria Sue
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

It was great to see Julian take his own journey of discovery into the kind of man he felt he was becoming. I love how here was there for Kayde and even during a rough patch he wasn't going to leave Kayde in need. I also love that friends are there to help keep things moving forward and give good advice.

 

View all my reviews My December Daddy by Leta Blake
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I loved how Matthew and Erik connected. There were some moments I really worried about both of them. I respected the fact that Matthew wasn't willing to just stop moving forward with his new freedom. The last chapter was a great way to wrap up the story.


View all my reviews A Little Christmas Caper: A Holidays at Rawhide Ranch Story by Stella Moore
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This is a sweet story that you get to see the struggle between needs, wants, and fears. Each person has something unique to offer and things that have to be solved. I love how these three come together and really love the way there is a wrap up to the story in the final story.

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I also read the My December Daddy Bonus.  

Weeks 43-45

 I listened to an anthology and ready an anthology so I didn't have much to report for about a week and a half.  Next I spent a weekend attending the Shameless Book Convention so I wasn't on my computer.  Then we had another hurricane that thankful didn't effect us to much but it was a distraction.  So time to get caught up.  

Dirty Daddies 2022 Anniversary Anthology by Maren Smith
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

As always these anthology are full of so many fun stories. There is a bit of everything no matter what type of daddy story you enjoy. Even those that aren't my jam are still well written and a great way to try out something new.



View all my reviews Sunnydale Vets: The Complete Series by Austin Bates
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Review - This was such a fun collection of stories. Loved all the guys from Sunnydale office. I listened to the audio version and really enjoyed it.

1 - Dog Days of Summer - Beau, Patrick - I love these two and how they just connect with each other without knowing who they are. You also get to see that Beau has to figure things out. Glad that things worked out for them.
2 - Like Cats and Dogs - Ronan, Oliver - This story has the familiar enemies to lovers trope. There was such a quick connection but it works so well for the characters.
3 - Cat's Got My Tongue - River and Weston. - Your past really does have an effect on your present and in this story we see how bullying in the past has an impact on both the bully and the one who was bullied. I liked the way this story develops and how both of these men have to really think about what they see going forward.
4 - Cat and Mouse - Zayden, Elliott - There is humor in the this story when life gets out of hand a little lie blows up. It was great to see these two give each other a chance and find a way to move forward.
5 - Horse of a Different Color - Kohen, Archer - I loved the sweetness between these two and was so glad Archer got a story. There are moments in this story that caused some tears but the ending is perfect for these two men.
6 - When the Cat's Away - Andre, Jude - This was a great second chance romance. I love the way these two really reconnect but they have to figure things out so they can move forward. This was a really sweet new beginning.
7 - Barking Up the Right Tree - Jett, Korbin - This story is really a great rom-com where a relationship gets started only to find out there is an unexpected connections. Of course the reader sees how things are going so it just adds to the fun.

View all my reviews A Little Singles Day Saga: A Holidays at Rawhide Ranch Story by Bayleigh Rae
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I love the outcome of this story but getting there was a bit of an up and down experience. There were lots of misunderstandings during the story. And Luna's insecurities don't always get address before a meltdown. But overall it is cute story and I look forward to the new series.

View all my reviews The Long and Winding Road by T.J. Klune
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I have been putting off finishing up this series because I though there would be some hard moments but I decided to finally finish up the series by listening to it. I'm sure if anyone saw me out on my walk in the morning would be confused by moments of tears and then breaking out in laughter. This book has so many feels and so many moments as this family continues to evolve. It was a very special story and I love the family so much.

View all my reviews Tender Mercies by Eli Easton
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

There is a lot of feels in this story. Eddie is starting a new life and in comes Samuel who is being forced into starting over himself. I love how Eddie is there to help Samuel come to understand himself. But Samuel is also a source of strength for Eddie in return. I love how things work out for them. I would love to find out what happens with Samuel's brother.
I listened to the audio version and really enjoyed.

View all my reviews A Little Surprise by A.W. Scott
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I love how Calvin wants to watch out for Webster from the beginning. I also like how Calvin makes sure that he takes steps to make sure that Webster will be safe and is willing to be vetted. I love the way things develop between these two men. Sweet start to the Christmas book season.

 

View all my reviews Blue Raspberry by Pepper North
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I love the fact that Wyatt wants to help Lark so that she can feel that she is safe and can handle things when she needs to. Lark is also presented as a strong and capable person. What you do get to see is that two strong people can form a relationship that works well for both of them.



View all my reviews Peregrine by Piper Scott
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I loved seeing how Sebastian and Peregrine began their relationship together. It was also cool to see that Sebastian even all those years ago let his love for Peregrine guide him in ways that his brothers are ushering in as a new way to view relationships. I liked meeting their older boys. It was also fun to see Harrison growing in his abilities as well. You can feel the tension as we near the end of this series. I listened to the audio version and really enjoyed it.

View all my reviews A Serving of Love by Andrew Grey
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I love the dramatic way Sebastian and Robert meet. While they seem an unlikely couple on the surface they fit so well together. I also like Robert's bravery and willingness to put his relationship first.
I listened to the audio version and really enjoyed it.

 

View all my reviews Puzzle by Nora Phoenix
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I love the way Branson and Ryder sort of slide into their relationship. And while this new relationship is fun to see there is so much that is advancing the ongoing story of the terrorism. The whole book builds toward the resolution of the back story. It really draws you along.
I listened to the audio version and it really was well done and added to the enjoyment of the story.

View all my reviews His Boss's Little Christmas by Della Cain
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This is rom-con level of fun. Cole and Nicholas meet up but timing doesn't work out. The next meeting is the office so it seems that is that. But then there comes a special Christmas and things take a turn. This is fun story and a great way to enjoy the Christmas season.

 

View all my reviews Save Me Santa by M.A. Innes
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I love how there is an instant connection between Jude and Brady. I love how fun Brady is. Jude's exasperation is adorable as well. And oh my goodness the family. This is a great light-hearted holiday read. Is it bad to make my Christmas wish that Santa will be us a sequel with their wedding story.

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Also read:

Paired with the Jock - Ana Byrde

This is a short story but so much fun. Poor Julian is really starting to hate his roommates crazy socks as they are used to block from his room. It is hard to put up with especially when you crush on your straight roommate. Of course from there things get really out of hand. Such a fun read.

Week 40 - 42

Reunited by Felice Stevens
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I was almost reluctant to read this book because I love the way that the first book Rescued turned out. I was almost afraid to see that fall apart. But I'm glad I gave it a go. There were times that this story is hard. Not only family crisis but crisis as a couple as well. But as you move through the story you realize that if things work they will be strong than ever. It was worth the journey even though there were some tough moments to get through.
Listened to the audio version and it was really well done.

View all my reviews Care by Nora Phoenix
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I felt like you could really feel the love and care between Warwick and Ken. I also love how loving and accepting everyone else was of their relationship. The back story of the assignation is also really getting interesting.

View all my reviews A Milkshake Kind of Morning by M.A. Innes
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I love how this two just sort of started a relationship without any drama. This story is fun without a lot angst. I have really been enjoying this series. I love how each boy and their relationship is unique and fits the characters perfectly.

 

View all my reviews Cookies by Teodora Kostova
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I really like Amir and the way that he took a transition in his life and made something special. I also like how he didn't walk away from the people that were part of his moving on in life. This story doesn't gloss over the real and ongoing work it takes for someone in the military to reintegrate into life. I also like how Jay is willing to take a chance on Amir and to not let his friend talk him out of what he wanted. This was a great book with many strong characters.

 

View all my reviews A Taste of Love by Andrew Grey
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This story is mostly a sweet love story but there are some moments in this story that the drama really makes you shed a tear. I love the special connection that Darryl and Bill have from the start.
I listened to the audio version and it was very well done.

 

View all my reviews The Rivals of Casper Road by Roan Parrish
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This story is so much fun and a great addition to the Garnet Run series. I loved the back and forth between and how their relationship builds. It was a great way to celebrate October.
I listened to the audio version and it was so much fun.

 

View all my reviews Finch by Piper Scott
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Finch is so willing to sacrifice his feelings for Hugh. But Hugh is ready to cast aside his wants for his man. I love the idea that Finch was hiding in plain sight and was right there when Hugh was ready.
I listened to the audio version and it was well done.

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Week 38 -39

 Well now that we have power and internet I can get to doing the next batch of review. 

Stay Lucky by Halsey Harlow
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This story has all the feels. Grant is gruff and really not trusting because his feeling were hurt by Leo in the past. But suddenly Leo is back but there are lots of things going on. Then there is Lucky who often steals the show in this story. She is bright and loving. This story has chapters that move the story toward the end interspersed with looking back at the building relationship between Grant and Leo. There are moments to make you laugh and moments to make you cry. But this story is so beautiful and shows the capacity to love.
I listened to the audio version and it was really well down.

View all my reviews Levi's Love by K.C. Wells
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

While I'm sad to see the end of the series this book was a wonderful ending. I love the fact that these two have been friends for so long and are just now getting together. This story was so sweet. I listened to the audio copy and really enjoyed.

 

View all my reviews All Revved Up by Amy Bellows
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I love this story and they way these three are building a life that works for them. I also love all the other fun people who come into their lives. The scenes from New Zealand were tear provoking but so wonderful. This is such a wonderful story of love and dedication.

 

View all my reviews A Little Bit Naughty by Reese Morrison
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I love the way that these two are so drawn to each other from the beginning. I respect that both men aren't sure what they can give beyond the weekend and neither push the other man. Remi is so gentle and willing to learn and follow Isaac's lead. The rest of the story is a wonderful unfolding and the epilogue was very special.

 

View all my reviews Crankshaft by K.M. Neuhold
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I love the fact that Steele doesn't even realize he knows Porter. It is also a great gentleman and doesn't take advantage. I also like how their friends give them a nudge over some bunnies and from there things just seem to grow and grow. Love the beginning of this new series.
Listened to the audio version and it was lots of fun.

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

A simple animal rescue turns into so much more. Jason has to go through some recalculations about himself. Ryder also has to be willing to rethink some things as well. There are a few really touching moments as they interact with others.
I listened to the audio version and enjoyed it very much.

 

View all my reviews A Little Halloween Hijinx: A Holidays At Rawhide Ranch Story by Ava Sinclair
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I love that this story lets us see an established couple instead of a new relationship. We also get to see the reality that couples have to keep working on things especially when the situation changes. Cord has to admit to times where he was wrong. They are a great couple and the story is fun and a great HEA.

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I also read three book bonus stories that are not on Goodreads.

Puffling Tuxedo - Amy Bellows 

I love this short little follow up on the story. I can just picture the little cutie.

Housewarming - Reese Morrison

A short and sweet chance to see that things are going to go really well for these two men.

Bonus - You Had Me at Merlot - GR Lyons 

I love this special moment when Nicky gets to be official who he feels like.

Week 25 - 37

Just Dex by Jodi Payne
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I love the way that the person who brought them together is a part of both of their pasts but neither one gives the vibe that they really new him. I also love how you are allowed to see that Dex is a bright and capable person but is also in need of support to truly thrive. Cy is also a complex character and you see he also goes through changes as their relationship with each other develops. There have some crisis points and it is in the way they move through these moments that really creates the power of this story. This story was a really wonderful read.

View all my reviews Magpie by Piper Scott
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I really love the suspense that was allowed to build in the beginning of their relationship and how their bond was forged almost in the fire. I think this bonding was what really set up the way the later dramatic moment plays out and the effect that it has on Reynard. And Misha is such a strong and determined man that he doesn't accept things just because they are.
I listened to the audio version which was very well done.

View all my reviews Lone Star Hearts: The Complete Series by Susi Hawke
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Review - I listened to the box set as an audio book. I enjoyed this series of stories very much. It is a great set of stories that span many different types of situations and building relationships between the different brothers.
1 - Found in Beaumont - Beau, Lukas and Gideon - This story is so sweet. I love the relationship that Lukas and Gideon already have and how Beau becomes a part of that. I love how he always respected what was between the two men. There are some really sweet feels in this first story in the series.
2 - Lost in Dallas - Dallas, Kyle - I like that these two have been working together for a while when this story starts. Kyle is in a toxic relationship but he gets himself out. I love the way that his relationship with Dallas develops. Another great story.
3 - Secret in Houston - Houston and Cody - I love how this story starts out with some drama that you don't fully understand. There were so many tense moments in this story and so many feels. I feel that this story has bit of different vibe from the first two stories but turns out really well.
4 Home in Austin - Owen and Austin - I love the sweet way this story moves through with Austin being in the right place at the right time to provide what Owen needs. This story is a great wrap to the series with a lots of good feels.

View all my reviews A Rubber Ducky Kind of Day by M.A. Innes
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I like the way that we get to see Nash develop into the daddy that Skylar needs. I love the way you shares about how he is doing research about what you needs to be doing. But he also listens to what Skylar says and observe reactions to refine what is best for the two of them. They complete each other and make a wonderful couple.

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Medicine Balls - Tara Lane - Freebie from the Balls to the Wall universe

My rating 4 of 5 stars

This story is such a sweet story. Zach is sort of stuck in a relationship that isn't healthy for him in so many ways. I like the fact that Zach admits the changes are really for himself. Ben is a great guy and I was so glad to see them communicate with each other. The wrap up was wonderful. I really enjoyed this story.