January 3 - 18, 2026

 Wow a new year and new batch of reviews.  I have a few Coastal Magic author books I'm still working on but have also been busy reading non-CMC books as well.  

The Sheriff's Omega by C.W. Gray
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Ro needs a safe place for his family to be. Matt is asked to help out. It was great watching the bond formimg. I also like that while Ro was dealing with his troubles he stepped up to help others. It was also great to see the Hot Mess Club still busy as usual.

 

View all my reviews Little Treat: An MM Daddy Christmas Romance by Joe Satoria
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Logan is a closeted hockey coach who is so stressed out he is forced to take a vacation. James is right there sharing samples on the sidewalk. Something just clicks between them. Love this sweet and sexy holiday story.

 

View all my reviews A Shared Range by Andrew Grey
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Dakota sets aside his dream of being a doctor to care for his dad. he doesn’t seem to regret it but he has been hiding a part of himself. Wally comes with a friend to visit the ranch and there is a connection. Dakota has to chose what to do about that. There. are some dramatic moments but also some very heart warming ones as well.

 

View all my reviews Fish on a Bicycle by Amy Lane
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This Fish Universe continues to draw more people into the circle. I love the way the new office is getting off the ground. It was also interesting to see Henry (Shades of Henry) from this point of view. I really loved the bonus story with Bert and Ernie. #CMCon26

View all my reviews Drowning at the Diner by Beth Dolgner
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Olivia is settling into Nightmare. But there are suddenly some new people in town. When one of them ends up dead the race is on to save a local. Olivia finds out there are even more new things to learn about. #CMCon26

 

View all my reviews Celebrating the Season by Nora Phoenix
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I love how Boaz spots a Santa that really catches his attention. Ellery is also attracted so they spend time together. Ellery is a great fit for Boaz. I am glad that they figure things out.

 

View all my reviews Just George by Mary Calmes
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

George is dedicated to his work and doesn’t need anyone in his life. He is introduced to Curt just before things really fall apart. I loved Curt’s quiet presence and his willingness to admit he was wrong. #CMCon25

 

View all my reviews A Little Christmas 4: Teddy by M.A. Innes
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This story was just so much fun. Teddy wants to ungrump his neighbor and get noticed. It takes a bit but works out well. Once everyone is on the same page we get to see their adorable relationship bloom.

 

View all my reviewsThe Billionaire's Valet by Lucy Lennox
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This is a short story of two men who have been secretly crushing on each other. Iggy is the rich kid now grown. Jon the valet can’t stand watching him mess and up and decides to quit. I love Iggy’s determination to track Jon down and admit feelings.

 

View all my reviews Sonny and Leo by C.W. Gray
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This was such a sweet collection of stories. I loved following Leo and Sonny develop their relationship as they move through the year. Leo’s family was so sweet and accepting. I also learned a lot about their holidays.

 

View all my reviews On Dancer by Annabeth Albert
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Rudy has been helping his mom and still in the town he grew up in. His crush is now right here in the ballet studio he is working in. I love how Rudy really wanted to take care of Alexander from the start. I also like that they had to take time to work things out. The epilogue chapter is great.


View all my reviewsThe Dating Disaster by Saxon James
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This was a fun story as you watch Marshall and Felix continue to misunderstand each other. They have great friends who try to help. They epilogue was a wonderful wrap to the story.

 

View all my reviews Beneath This Mask by Victoria Sue
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Gael is determined to not like Jake but just as he gets his wish to split up he starts to change feelings. Meanwhile someone is out to get the enhanced in horrible ways. As they try to track the killer the killer captures one of them. The scenes in this section of the book are hard to read. This episode is full of tension. The ending was great and I like the peek at the next to team member. #CMCon26

View all my reviews Costumes and Cocktails by Megs Pritchard
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

This is a quick story that takes place at an office party. These two men needed to be brave enough to talk to each other. The rest is what happens if you take the risk.

 

View all my reviews Got Me Feeling by Casey Cox
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Roman has been crushing and want to make sure Lockey is safe. Lockey is about to make a worse mess for himself. Roman steps in and feelings go deeper. I wish the horrid ex had gotten more of what he deserved instead of just signing papers.

 

View all my reviewsCowboy Healing by B.A. Tortuga
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I loved the sweet build between Caleb and Patrick. Caleb had an agenda but it doesn’t take long for that to get switched up. I also really appreciate how much the kids and animals were part of the story. This was a great single dad finding healing in their own way.

 

View all my reviews Redneck Revenant by David R. Slayton
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Once again David R Slayton has kept me on the edge of my seat. Adam Binder is back with a whole new set of problems. He need to figure out the deadly connection between his world and the spirit realm. The book opens with a big surprise and ends with another reveal that leaves us wondering what is next. #CMCon26

 

View all my reviews Ted's Temerity by Anna Sparrows
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Ted is feeling his age and that he will not find love. Zephyr breezes into his life and things start to look better. But a secret Ted’s been keeping blows up. I love how Zephyr was there for Ted and willing to do what it took. Ted accepts Zephyr’s help which makes them a wonderful couple.

 

View all my reviewsMake Mine a Lion by Harper B. Cole
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Both Ryan and James no longer no longer part of their shifter communities. And both men to find their mates. It was so much fun to see the series of events that happen when they hire a matchmaker. They are perfect for each other.

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January 1-2, 2026 - Happy New Year

 Here are my entries for the Coastal Magic Reading Challenge.  I might get one or two more read but this should be the wrap up.  I read at least one book from each author that was registered to attend.  Lost count of how many individual titles.  I also started my book journal.  This has been so much fun so I plan to continue this new habit for 2026.  Here are a just a few of my pages.  #CMCon26 

And now on to the reviews:

The Mystery of the Curiosities by C.S. Poe
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I like the way Seb and Calvin’s relationship is deepening. They have a lot to work through. This story was so interesting because it combined historical context with the modern day. The solution to the puzzle really surprised me. I also like the end because I think it shows growth on Calvin’s part. Another great mystery from CS Poe. #CMCon26

View all my reviews Pluck & Cover by J.D. Blackrose
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This is a great story with murder, mayhem, and humor. Waylon is a zombie so when bodies show up with missing parts he is suspect #1. In trying to figure out what’s happening a whole lot of drama gets uncovered. The Sound Booth audio production was so much fun to listen to. #CMCon26

 

View all my reviews Furbidden Fatality by Deborah Blake
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I just want to say that I love Queenie the cat. I feel that there is more to her than meets the eye. She leads Kari into a whole lot of trouble. Kari makes one impulsive decision and then things really start going wrong. I love the full cast of characters and each of them adds a layer to this animal driven cozy mystery. #CMCon26

 

View all my reviews Serenade by T.K. Lawyer
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

These two spend the first half of the book not having the deep conversations they need to have. But when danger and drama unfold, truths are revealed. You got to see both Eva and Kingsley learn to accept each other as they are. Sweet romance with a twist of danger. #CMCon26


View all my reviews The Roller Coaster at the End of the World by Eric R. Asher
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Another great peek into the lives of those living at “The Theme Park at the End of the World”. I loved how this one not only showed us a new ride but also covered all of the seasons from before Mardi Gras right up to Haunt Season. Ellie and Cole’s friendship is continuing to grow. And you have to love those theme park vloggers. This book was so much fun to listen too. I highly recommend this series if you like humor, small scares, and theme parks. #CMCon26

View all my reviewsChasing Ava by Siera London
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

I’m not sure how I feel about this story. I took a lot of notes. Both main characters are smart and dedicated to their work and care of others. Logan was there to help Ava durning a stressful situation. There are also lots of bad guys in their actions and attitudes. But I was a little uncomfortable with their relationship because both of them seem to have baggage that could benefit from some profession help. Ava seems to default to either denial or running away. Logan seems to default to distrust or anger. I think the part that really upset me the most was him getting upset at Ava because he didn’t know she could run and she decides to go home and he talks her into letting it go and stay. The ending does give hope that they are going to figure things out and have a chance. #CMCon26

View all my reviews Foolish Games by Tracy Solheim
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I really enjoyed both Will and Julanne’s characters. I also like that while their relationship story is the main point there is also the tension that comes with a football scandal. They both bring childhood baggage which effect how they react to each other. It was also fun to get the bonus romance of Will’s mom. #CMCon26

 

View all my reviewsSmoky Mountain Dreams by Leta Blake
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

There is a lot of depth to this story. It explores loss, grief, and moving on. We also get to see inside both Christopher and Jesse’s family both the good and the bad. I like how they were drawn to each other. There is a lot for them to overcome both in their relationship with each other with outside elements. I really enjoyed this story and the deep emotions it stirred up. #CMCon26

View all my reviews Between You and Me by Gregory Ashe
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Another great mystery with Dash bumbling his way through figuring out the clues. The rest of the Last Picks continue to be part of his home and life. But when it comes to relationship Das is his own worse enemy and things are looking great for him relationship wise. #CMCon26

 

View all my reviews Cherish & Blessed by Tere Michaels
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Cherished - It is time for Thanksgiving. There is the drama expected around family and the holiday. But it gets even more interesting with Evan’s daughter brings home her boyfriend and his family. To make it worse she hasn’t given them any background information. Loved the idea that they were more upset by the cop thing than the fact that they were gay. But getting through the holiday might be a way for her relationship with Matt begin to improve.

Blessed - The second story takes us through some major events in the life of their extended family. We see the couples working on their relationships. We also see them building deeper friendships between the couples.

#CMCon26

View all my reviews Hide & Chic by J.D. Blackrose
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

With Waylon’s intel they squad of military zombies start on a mission. There is danger at every turn. But woven through the danger is humor while working on a beauty pageant. Another great episode in the world of a zombie cosmologist. #CMCon26

 

View all my reviews Racing for the Sun by Amy Lane
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I am glad I final got around to Sonny and Ace’s story. Despite all the hard things they had seen or done they are caring people. They are drawing people to them who need people to watch out for them. I also love how no matter what they continue to work on their dream. #CMCon26

 

View all my reviewsTruth & Tenderness by Tere Michaels
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This book seems like such a turn from the last book as life seems to be falling apart for all the couples. Jim’s obsession with justice creates drama in his relationship with Griffin. It even spills over into Evan and Matt’s life. In the meantime Evan and Matt’s life is getting more complicated as both of them advance career wise which disrupts the routine they had developed. It brings back some strong feelings on both sides. And in the background Daisy and Bennett’s life is imploding. The story takes us through the journey in trying to unravel all the problems. #CMCon26

View all my reviews Forever & Ever: A Collection of Stories by Tere Michaels
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This is a beautiful conclusion to the series. We get a chance to walk through so many wonderful life moments. There is so much humor in all of the characters reactions to the curve balls life throws at them. #CMCon26

 

View all my reviewsHeat for Sale by Blake Moreno
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

It was interesting to see the way Heath processes and moves through all his emotions. He show lots of growth but still holds things back. Adrain has his own plans but is also thrown into other ideas. I also love Simon and his care for both men. There is some very dramatic action that brings everything to a head. I love the way this story concluded as I worried for a moment. #CMCon26

View all my reviews Who We Truly Are by Victoria Sue
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

It was a great story full of tension and drama. Talon is working on letting Finn just do his job and not give into his worries. They are soon part of an undercover operation that takes some dangerous turns for Finn. And in the background the Enhanced are discovering more things about themselves. There is a lot of danger but the good guys win. #CMCon26

View all my reviews Transposition by Gregory Ashe
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Thanksgiving is coming and Hazard are grumpy. They have one case to check on but that leads to another. They stumble in on one of those murder mystery games that gets a bit real. Getting snowed in puts on the pressure. They finally solve the crime but other things end on a very sore note. #CMCon26

 

View all my reviews Paternity Case by Gregory Ashe
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

The case itself is full of so much that has to be sorted. Who did what and why. As the case unravels it becomes more and more complicated. But the past and present for Hazard and Sommerset is also taking on a hard edge. John Henry has some truths he needs to sort out. There is abuse discussed which was difficult to think about. But the story was riveting and kept me on the edge of my seat. #CMCon26

View all my reviews Bully for Sale by Leta Blake
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This story is very powerful and really speaks to the idea that everyone deserves to choose their own path. Ned and Ezer both choose something because they want to prevent something worse but it leads to so much hurt and misunderstanding. I loved Ezer's strength to stand up for others even when he hadn’t been able to stand for himself. Ned for his part learned his lessons well and took to heart the need to grow up and choose a better life. And the ending is so sweet after so much pain. #CMCon26

View all my reviews Sweet on the Cowboy by Sasha Summers
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Gwen left home for more but she lost it all and come home. Lam also suffered loss and is dealing with grief. Together they build something better. The twins were so cute. If you want a sweet romance with a bit of spice and wonderful family you will really enjoy this book. #CMCon26

 

View all my reviewsShades of Henry by Amy Lane
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I had read the Johnnies series years ago. So ti was a nice visit to be back in that world. I also love the connection with the Fish world series that I started reading this year. When I started reading Amy Lane I didn’t realize the way all the books are knit together. This is another wonderful book set in these worlds. This one is more low angst since most of the action is off page. I love the way Lance and Henry fit together. I also like how they carve space for themselves while still keeping an eye out on the Flophouse boys. #CMCon26

View all my reviews Her Cowboy's Triplets by Sasha Summers
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

India comes home because she didn’t feel she had a choice and she can’t wait to leave. Brody came back because it’s where he wanted to be. But love is building. I loved how steady Brody was in loving India and showing her in big and small ways that he was a man she could count on. #CMCon26

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December 23 - 31, 2025

 Well here is the last post of 2025.  I can't believe it's the end of another month and another year.  Looking forward to continuing creating my book journal in 2026.  I have one more months worth of books for the Coastal Magic Reading Challenge to post in the coming week.  

Always You by R.J. Scott
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

There is a lot to this story. Jazz is dealing with PTSD and living rough. You could just feel his despair at the opening of the story. But Alex has his own demons from the past that he has overcome. It was interesting to see them navigate things from their past as well. There are some dramatic moments during the story as well. This is a well written story that examines some tough topics.

View all my reviews Love You So Hard by Tara Lain
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Craig has noticed a young man that is like his lucky charm but then things seem to fall apart. But after actually meeting Jessie he learns to see his own value and turns his life around.

 

View all my reviews His Little Winter Wonderland: An M/M Christmas Romance by A.W. Scott
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Tanner is in a bad head space so he heads to the ranch. Simon is there to help right away. I love the way their bond forms between them from the beginning. The ranch is such a special place.

 

View all my reviews The Christmas Bachelor by Rhys Everly
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Samir has been true to himself but hasn’t gotten very far. Cole is caught up in his past. These two are drawn together in a magical way. There are some missteps but for the most part a sweet holiday story of finding love.

 

View all my reviews A Daddy for Christmas 3: Rowan by Colette Davison
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I love the way Rowan just bursts into Damon’s life. He brings so much Christmas cheer. The start of their relationship may have been a bit dramatic but it seems to have worked out well for both of them.

 

View all my reviews Lace by K.C. Wells
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

What’s better than finding out your crush is bi. Learning that he might fancy you too is the icing on the cake. There is a moment or two as they work things but overall a story of being loved for you and what you enjoy.

 

View all my reviews Matteo's Mettle by Anna Sparrows
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Matteo is ready to give up on his lifestyle. But an incident at the club gets London’s s attention. London hasn’t thought about being a daddy but he does feel a connection to Matteo. With communication they are able to build a life together.

 

View all my reviews Coming Out on Top by Nora Phoenix
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

My heart really broke for Augustus (Mac) in so many ways everything has been striped from him including his name. Suddenly Quentin is there but he is not without his baggage. But they fit together beautifully. Don’t want to give anything away but I was really cheering for them both at the end of the story.

 

If Only in My Dreams by Keira Andrews
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Charlie is such a special guy with so much love for his sister that he'll do just about anything to keep a promise. We get to see both him and Charlie struggle with the past. They need to continue to unravel misunderstandings past and present. Now they may be regaining something special.

Really enjoyed listening to this story using Audible. Still a wonderful Christmas story 10 years latter.

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

Trick is frustrated that Boston doesn’t remember him. So he starts a campaign to keep everyone else away. Except it only makes Boston madder. It was funny to see how Trick’s idea to get attention is both a huge mistake and possibly brilliant at the same time.

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