May 21 - 31, 2025

 Well here is the last of my pre Coastal Magic Reading Challenge reviews.  I'm so excited to get started on the challenge on June 1, 2025.  If you want to join the fun click Reading Challenge.  Watch this space for all the review fun.  

So here are the last of May's reviews.  

Display Me by Kota Quinn
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Jamie and Kingston have had this on going love/hate relationship. I love the way their feelings got tangled between IRL and on the app. The resolution was very satisfying.

 

View all my reviews Dragon's Stand by Nora Phoenix
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

It is great to see all there of these men begin to build their lives together on their own terms. Fallon is so much more than what is seen on the surface. And in the background all the mysteries continue to unravel.

 

View all my reviews How to Catch the Boss by Ana Ashley
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

These two have had feeling for a long time. Poor Ryan has been afraid to even thing about Luca. This was a fun Christmas romance between some long term friends.

 

View all my reviews Alone in a Hotel Room by Alex Blaine
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Timmy is out of his comfort zone. Jax is exploring other way to express himself. They are brought together at the perfect tense for both of them.

 

View all my reviews The Silent Mountain Man by Casey Cox
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

What a dramatic life or death situation. I like the way they are drawn to each other in the here and now. It is so sad that parental choices can leave such changes in other future.



View all my reviews Delivering Dante by Lucy Lennox
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Dante’s story was very moving. It was interesting to see AJ’s struggle with coming clean with Dante. And wow the way this story wraps up is amazing. Such a great show of growth, bravery, and justice.

 

View all my reviews Hanging With Daddy by J.P. Sayle
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Gaines and Austin have a meet up when both of them are working. It seems like a great coincidence doesn’t it. But they both have great friends. I appreciate there are no 3rd act break up. Both of these men expressed their concerns and work to find solutions that worked.

 

View all my reviews Undone by Leslie McAdam
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Murph decides he will be flirty with his new landlord/roommate. Jason keeps complaining about the men Murph is seeing. They both have a lot to discover about each other. It was fun to watch thing develop.

View all my reviewsPoor Parrish was burned so badly. But a random encounter at the courthouse brings him back into another situation. But Parrish’s decision to help morph into so much more. With pressure form all sides the race is on to a happy ending. Of Paper and Wood by Amy Bellows
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This story really has webs of layers and connections between all of the characters. Park makes a decision in desperation which leads to another. Troy is facing a life he doesn’t want. they come together for a time. In the background though things are set in motion which will change the lives of not just themselves but of all those those around them.

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May 12 - 21, 2025

 

How to Catch a Bookworm by Ana Ashley
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Ben and Tristan meet up and have a good time but that seemed to be it. But with the help of meddling friends they reconnect. This is a short story with a very sweet ending.

 

View all my reviews Sugar Bunny by Colette Davison
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

The causal start to the relationship makes what builds between them even sweeter. I also like how Colton and Ford support Oscar with his mom. I’m glad we get to see how things work out for Oscar and I loved the bonus chapter.

 

View all my reviewsCrash-Landed in Love by Piper Scott
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I wasn’t sure what to expect from this story. I was really impressed with the great mix of humor and deep feelings. It was interesting to have both Al and Jude dealing with the same feelings with their families and lives despite all the things that set them apart for each other. I also love Jude’s friends and their different reactions as the find and what’s happening. I love the way things worked but for both of them. I can’t wait for the next book.

View all my reviewsGot Me Talking by Casey Cox
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Poor Jeremy is filling really down on himself. He got talked into a specific hook up and that seems to be a great idea. Right up until Monty walks in the bakery. It takes a while to get past it. I love the epilogue which gives you full view of their future.

 

View all my reviews Haunted Ever After by Jen DeLuca
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This was a great haunted tale. I like how all the regular town folk just take it all in stride. It was also a bit of trusting yourself as well. Loved the mystery of what was happening with the house.

 

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

It was fun to watch Storm and Hennesy sort of fall into each other. The fake boyfriend troupe is always so much fun to watch. Glad everything got sorted out for them.

View all my reviews How to Catch a Bachelor by Ana Ashley
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Indy and Tate seem to not only seem unlikely pair. But neither is really in the market for more at the time. But there is a connection almost immediately. Of course there is all manner of obstacle for these two men. But Tom is there to help out. I also love Indy’s special gifts from his family.

 

View all my reviews Off Key by May Archer
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This story starts out a little bitter sweet as we can see that there have been feelings on both sides for years. But there are layers of well meaning lies that have really created so much hurt. I like the use of a “kidnap” van was the vehicle to begin healing.

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Drake and the Dragon - Victoria Sue - 4.0 

Drake’s whole life has been a shadow and filled with misery. But Keegan is ready to help him find the truth. I liked how even a small kindness from Keegan starts make Drake’s life better.

Reviews - May 2 - 11, 2025

 

Painted Love by Layla Dorine
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Cas Knows what he wants and is trying the best he can to achieve it. But not everyone is kind and he’s very shy. Along come Garret and Mouse who draw Cas into their family. I love the way they all fit together. There is some danger from the outside but this just helps them bond even more. This is a sweet pet triad that lets you see the love and respect they have each other.

View all my reviews Duty & Devotion by Tere Michaels
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Evan and Matt both need to work through the individual issues while also moving forward in their relationship. It was also fun to see Griffin and Jim as well. It was nice to watch Evan work through his issues in big and small ways.

 

View all my reviews Cowboy Haven by B.A. Tortuga
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Kilts dealing with the way his life will look without the rodeo. Heath has had his whole life turned upside down in every way possible. When Kolt rides to Heath’s rescue it give both men something different to focus on. I like how much Kolt lifted Heath up and encourage him. And I love the whole band of Kolt’s family. There is some drama from outside but the building relationship is the main focus of this book.

View all my reviews Working For The Summer by Nicole Dykes
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

This is a short story of two men finding each other working together for the summer. Blake and Clayton are great people and a perfect couple. The story really ends with the beginning of their future.



View all my reviews Bookish Bits & Bites by Tawdra Kandle
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This is a great collection of short stories of some of Coastal Magic 2021 authors. I love the fun stories and the little peeks at the authors. The recipes are a fun addition.

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New Release - Cost of Redemption - Hayden Hall

 I recieved this book in exchange for an honest review. 

Cost of Redemption by Hayden Hall
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This story could have been a victim loving his abuser but that isn’t the way this story plays out. There are many layers to both men. Both men have been asking in unhealthy ways as a means to cope with their own internal feelings. Elio is full of self-loathing and takes that out on others. But Jaxon is also chasing demons in the form of trying to outrun his brother’s bad choices. Both are broken in different ways. I like the epilogue that lets you see the healing in store for both of them. This is a very powerful story.

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April 13 - 29, 2025

 

Little Boy Mine by Wendy Rathbone
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I love the meet cute that starts the story. It was also funny that both get dragged there by their best friends. Their relationship builds gradually but it seems to work well for these two characters.

 

View all my reviews Step Daddy by Morticia Knight
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Step Daddy - Kit and Gareth - 5-37 - Kit is in trouble and seeks out his step brother. Gareth is a daddy and falls into that roll for Kit. They quickly develop into more. I love how Gareth is there to guide but still encourages Kit to make choices.

 

View all my reviews Diva Pop by Morticia Knight
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Diva Pop - Jett, Silas - 5-01 - What’s a diva to do. His band is a hot mess and now they have a new manager. Silas sees through Jet’s defenses. It takes work to over come the obstacles they face.

View all my reviews Pretty Puppy by Morticia Knight
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Pretty Puppy - Lee, Ash - 4-17 - This is a wonderful second chance story. Ash was an impulsive kid who walked away from Lee. Years later both men have never gotten over each other. I like once the truth came out the work starts for a fresh start.

 

View all my reviews Charm Me by Beck Grey
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Ducan is the guy who doesn’t think he can have more. Bill is strong enough to go for what he wants. This is a quick story of two men deciding to try.

View all my reviews A Few Good Fish by Amy Lane
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

It was great to see the growing relationship between Jackson and Ellery. They are both learning more about what each one has to offer. I love their interactions with Sonny and his crew. There is much action and danger of course to keep you on the edge of your seat.

View all my reviews Encouraging Little Everly by Meredith O'Reilly
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

This is a cute story of finding the right one for you. Everly has things that she must work through. Andrew and the rest of the Ranch family are there to give her the love and support she need to move on.

 
View all my reviews XOXO, Aster: A M/M Age Gap, Age Play Short Story by A.W. Scott
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This is such a cute way to meet up. Both men have had to risk a bit to become part of the program. I love the way Aster and Charlie just mesh so well together.

 

View all my reviewsWanted: Tender Daddy by Sammi Cee
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Archie and Hutch’s meet isn’t cute but it does give them a peek at each other. Archie’s whole family seem to be treating him like he can’t take care of himself. I loved how even though he is a great daddy he still understands that Archie should be seen as capable adult that he is.

 

View all my reviewsIn Wulf's Clothing by B.A. Tortuga
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This story opens with a very dramatic scene that sets the stage for the rest of the story. Trey aka Wulf is such a strong man who has built a wonderful life. But coming home is stirring up a lot of things from the past. Corey also has some tough choices to make. Loved all the the interactions between the characters.

 

View all my reviewsShowstopper by Regina Kyle
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I love the humor that you find in this story from start to finish. Both men have great whit and fun personalities. This story is a little bit of everything from long lost relatives to sport scandals. This story was a wonderful listen after a really hard day.

View all my reviewsMoving Maverick by Lucy Lennox
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

It was interesting to watch Maverick work his way through all the feelings. Rabbit Island brings forth. I loved the connection from these two men who were friends as kids and now meeting as men. Finding out the whole story was a bittersweet. But the love of the Marion family just keeps stretching.

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March 31 - April 12, 2025

 

The Cowboy Contract by B.A. Tortuga
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Ryder is mad and decides to just hire a fake husband and be done. But his old friend Kase needs help and offers to help right back. I like how Kase decided he wanted all in from the very beginning. As a couple there isn’t much angst or a break-up/make-up. All the fun comes from deciding to open up to love not just with each other but to fill the whole house with love.

View all my reviews Best Served Cold by Victoria Sue
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This book was hard to put down. You are pulled into the world of Jackson and Annix from the beginning. Throughout the book you get glimpses of the past. There are several unexpected twists and turns. I love the powerful ending of this story.

 

View all my reviews Unforgettable by Marley Valentine
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Reeve and Oz really fit even on a one night stand. The fake relationship gave the reader time to really learn more about both men. It was an interesting same but different scenario. There is of course some drama but I loved the ending of the story.

View all my reviews Born Daddy by Morticia Knight
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

In “Born Daddy” Rogan and Tate share the same connection of knowing a serial killer. Their relationship was different one being a long time friend and the other as a sub. Both are dealing with the issue of what did I miss. But they form a bond that quickly brings them together. They are trying to make a new life together. The is some drama with others of course that they must deal with.

View all my reviews His Middle by Morticia Knight
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

n “His Middle” Noah is dealing with loss and trying to run a business he has had no training for.. Spencer rides to the rescue as he deals with his own feelings of losing his best friend. They both feel a pull that is not new to either of them. It was fun to see Spencer deal with his worries about Noah’s dad. And I like as Noah became more comfortable he really started to show his true self.

View all my reviews Painting Together a Family by Sean Michael
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This is a fast paced love story. Dev and Bry are brought together over a shared misfortune. But they also feel an instant attraction. The kids are a fun addition to the story. Drama may be what starts the ball rolling but true feelings really develop.

 

View all my reviews Grounding Griffin by Lucy Lennox
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

It was fun to see the way Sam and Griff meet at the bar. This misunderstanding is a good way to make a connection. As a reader we know there is the potential for one hiccup once the truth comes out so we are waiting for that. Of course the whole Marian Clan is ready to “help” out. I also loved the way everything works out in the end.

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

I like how these characters are really very different from each other yet the have more in common than they realize. I also like the way their relationship grows even as both of them try to guard their hearts. It was wonderful to see Ten find a way to stay together yet still have their dreams. I also love the magic of love element as part of the island’s lore. The nicknames and the stories behind them also adds to the telling of the story.

View all my reviewsLove & Loyalty by Tere Michaels
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I really loved Griffin’s character. He has so much trust and loyality to the people he cares about and doing the right thing. Jim is a hard nosed cop but things just seem to mesh with them. I really hated to see Griff deal with such betrayal. It was a long road to the finish but worth the journey.

 

View all my reviewsSnowed In: An MM Romance Charity Anthology by Kiki Clark
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I am reviewing as a collection not on each individual story. This was a great collection of holiday stories with the same troupe to bind them together. It is always fun to see a group of authors take the same theme and approach it from so many different ways. Of course there are plenty of other troupes thrown in for fun.

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March 24 - 30, 2025

 But first another ARC review: 

Edge of Temptation by Hayden Hall
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This story does hav a real edge to it. It took me a while to finish it because these characters reminded me too much of a couple of children I’ve taught over the years that had been taken in by obligation not love and I worry about how their life will play out. Because of this I could see these characters one possible outcome.

But having finally finished the story…There is a punch and strength to the story. Two men navigating their pasts to find a way forward. Of making choices to protect and tell hard truths. I also appreciated the hope we find in the epilogue. It is a reminder that sometimes life is rough and moves you along but it is what you do with all of that which lets you write you own narrative and not someone else’s idea of you.

I received this ARC in exchange for an honest review.

View all my reviews The Wrangler and the Orphan by Jackie North
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I just love Brody’s story. Being there for someone else in need is a great way to work on your own healing. Kit is strong and resilient but he needs to learn to see that for himself. Brody’s backstory is very moving. And wow Quint is such a special human. Quint steps in when needed and backs off to give space. Even Stella as a background got her moment to help. Once again you feel the love that ranch family has for each other.

View all my reviews Twilight Out of Focus by Jyanome
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This manga is the story of high school love. There are feelings but Hisashi has a boyfriend but as things change as the boys work on making a film together. They open up to each other which starts something new.

 

View all my reviews The Right Way by May Archer
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I was glad to get this finally installment in this triology. Poor Bas has so much to figure out. Drew also has his secrets. I like the way that their relationship had been settled before things really explode. Things ended differently than I expected but it was a great way to finish things off.

 

View all my reviews How My Daddies Became Mates Vol. 1 by Mikkamita
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Akane and Shirosaki reminisce about how they first got together. They really had a rocky start. Sometimes you just have to trust your feelings.



View all my reviews Wanted: Understanding Daddy by Sammi Cee
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

It was interesting that Brett was getting tired of the way his life is going that his friend introduced him to the idea of being a “daddy”. Brett and Dylan have a past as children and it takes a while for them to deal with this. But those month are time for both men to be open to new possibilities. I also like see friends from previous books in this series and from The Takoda Outreach series which I loved as well.

View all my reviewsHate Me, but Let Me Stay Vol. 1 by Hijiki
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Finding your fated mate doesn’t make things just magically work out. These two have much to work out. The kid was adorable and get element to the story.

 

View all my reviews Red Fish, Dead Fish by Amy Lane
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Jackson and Ellery have unfinished business personal and vocational. Jackson has some dark places to crawl out of and needs to fight to go forward. Of course the chase becomes both personal and brutal. But through the darkness there is love of family created or borrowed. There is the caring for another human being that just need a chance to try again and the encouragement to make the effort.

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