Monday, October 3, 2022

Week 38 -39

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



Stay LuckyStay 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 (Maine Men #7)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 (Riding Home #2)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 (Destination Daddies)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 (Big Bull Mechanics #1)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 (Rescued Hearts, #1)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 StoryA 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.

Tuesday, September 20, 2022

Week 25 - 37

Just Dex (Les's Bar #1)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 (Forbidden Desires Spin-Off, #2)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 SeriesLone 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 (One of Those Days, #3)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.

Thursday, September 1, 2022

Week 33 - 34, 2022

 

Serve (White House Men #4)Serve by Nora Phoenix
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I continue to enjoy this series with the ongoing background story with the each new couple. I love the relationship development between these men. I also love how we get to see that a younger sub can sometimes be the strongest and most insightful of the bunch. I also appreciate the way other characters continue to develop in this series. Nora Phoenix has a way of really intertwining an ongoing saga spanning time with the intimate and personal reflections of the characters and their developing relationships.
I listened to the audio version and it was well done and you could feel the building suspense.

View all my reviews Love in Slow M'Ocean (Destination Daddies Season Two)Love in Slow M'Ocean by Gianni Holmes
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Jeff and Peter are in an unique position which effects their ability to advance their relationship. Jeff especially wants to make sure he is being fair. There was humor in the way his efforts start to play out. Thankfully all ends well for these two great guys. It was also fun to see some other special men we've met before.

View all my reviews Strike a Chord (Replay #4)Strike a Chord by K.M. Neuhold
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This is the final book in the Reply series and Benji finally gets his story. Benji has been the "good" boy for the last 10 years but he also has a love that didn't happen at the time the band was starting. The build up between Benji and Paris take quite a while especially because Paris is worried about his brother's feelings. There is some great humor in this story as well. I love the finally chapters and we get to see everyone coming back together and moving forward in new ways.
I listened to the audio version which was well done and very enjoyable.

View all my reviews Swallow (Forbidden Desires Spin-off, #1)Swallow by Piper Scott
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I love this story with crusty all Grimbold having his own story. I like how Walter has so many things to adjust to. I also loved seeing him gain his own strength and purpose. This is a great addition to the Forbidden world.
I listened to the audio version and enjoyed it very much.

View all my reviews Suite Dreams (Destination Daddies Season Two)Suite Dreams by Jacki James
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This story is a sweet story of starting out not knowing exactly what you want but then finding just what you need. I love how these two just seem to fit together. I haven't read the two series these men emerge from but I plan to now. Great story.

View all my reviews Baby and the Enforcer (Shifter Rescue #5)Baby and the Enforcer by Victoria Sue
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I love the conclusion of this series and I'm so glad that Charles' got his own HEA. There is so much more to both of these men. There are moments that are tense and some moments that can bring tears. This story is really a special on so many levels.
Listened to the audio version and it kept me on the edge of my seat.

View all my reviews Baby BearBaby Bear by Brina Brady
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

I have mixed feelings about this book. I love the idea of the story and end the end I like how things developed and worked out. But throughout the story there were times when I really didn't care for any of the characters. There were times when I thought so many of them were thoughtless or too quick to jump to conclusions. Also, there were side characters that one minute were painted as a villain and the next as a sympathetic character.
I listened to the audio version on my morning walks and it was well done.

View all my reviews A Second Harvest (Men of Lancaster County, #1)A Second Harvest by Eli Easton
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This story has lots of feels. There is Christie's life changing moment that starts him moving on a new path. There is David who on the surface seems to have a set life. But there is so much more at play under the surface. Sometimes being honest with yourself is the hardest part. There are some very dramatic moments in this story.
I listened to the audio version and loved it very much.

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Saturday, August 13, 2022

Week 30-32

Daddy's Saving (ABC Towers #3)Daddy's Saving by Pepper North
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I love the fact that Knox is clear about how long he's cared but was never going to do anything while Sharon was with her husband. This story has some very dramatic moments that advance the story. I love all the feels this story has to offer.
I listened to the audio version and enjoyed it very much.
 

View all my reviews Captain Silver FoxCaptain Silver Fox by Nora Phoenix
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This was a fun meet cute that leads to a whole host of problems. I like how both Brantley was there for Fox when he needed.
I listened to the audio and it was very well done.

 

View all my reviews Pretty 'n Peak (Destination Daddies Season Two)Pretty 'n Peak by Reese Morrison
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I love how the fact that both of these men have complex personalities and problems. I also like how the meeting was during the event but there wasn't an easy or insta everything works out. You see Austin begin to take care of himself and make choices that are best for him. Mateo is also really exploring himself. This story moves over a larger arc of time which gives it a much more realistic feel.

View all my reviews Any Given LifetimeAny Given Lifetime by Leta Blake
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Not sure what I expected when I picked up this book but it was so different than what I expected. This book is full of so many feels. It is hard to put anything more to the review without there being a spoiler. There are plenty of twists in the story as well. It was such a rich story.
I listened to the audio version and really enjoyed it very much.

View all my reviews Tide to You (Destination Daddies Season Two)Tide to You by J.J. Harper
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This is a strong story. Hudson and Yannick are both well rounded characters that have a lot going on in their life. They both hit it off quickly but there is a lot to unpack on the way to being together. I like the effort Hudson goes to for his boy.

 

View all my reviews Wait for Me (With Me, #1)Wait for Me by Kris Jacen
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I like how these two guys get together and they click quickly but then things have to be put on hold as Jeff is deployed. I also like how his friends know him well enough to know to give Scott some tips on the care and feeding of your military man. This is a sweet romance and the dog is adorable. Listened to the audio version and it was well done.

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

This story is full of feels and some hard moments. I love that this story doesn't just gloss over how hard recover from PTSD is. There isn't an insta healing just by meeting Julian. There is ongoing hard work and there are missteps. I also love that you see both men supporting each other. I also like the fact that even when Ranger is in a crisis situation he takes the time to help out someone else who has a relative in need.
I really enjoyed the audio recording of the book.

View all my reviews A Cheerful Little Coloring DayA Cheerful Little Coloring Day by Paige Michaels
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I love seeing Eloise and getting to hear her story. I love the fact that these two men are drawn to her and Master Derek only helps get things moving. I love how both men bring their own strengths into play. I also like the fact that they understand where Eloise is coming from and do their best to make sure she has all that she needs to build trust for her future.

View all my reviews Red Wolf ThrallRed Wolf Thrall by Amy Bellows
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This story examines the theme of starting over in the many ways that people have to start over. With everything going on in my life I appreciated the low angst. There are some big moments but the relationship for Noah and Ari despite circumstances feels pretty solid.
I listened to the audio version and really loved the bonus story included.

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

I love the look at these two men. Colin is set in his way with his baggage from a hard past. He has such a bad attitude at the beginning of the story that he has a really bad reaction to Walker. Walker has his own difficulties and kind of gives the vibe that Colin isn't all wrong in his negative assessment. BUT and this is where the story starts to take the wonderful turn both me start to see the other as more than their assumptions. There are moments when they begin to dive deeper and that is where the relationship truly begins. Both men have the other's best interest at heart and that is what develops and drives the conclusion of the story. There are parts of the story early on that both me frustrated me with their attitude but getting to the end was so satisfying. I listened to the audio version and it was well done. And frankly I think that was what help me get past the part of the story were you just want to thump both men in the head.

View all my reviews Destination Wedding (Starting Over #1)Destination Wedding by Sean Michael
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I love the way these two get together. These two really connect for the beginning. I also love the kids and how they just love each other. This is a sweet story with only a couple of angsty moments when dealing with the exes but even that isn't as bad it could be. This is a sweet love story of two men who deserve a great life and find it with each other.

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I also read Ray of Sunshine by Casey Cox 
This is a short story but packs a lot of happiness inside. I love the fact that these two men had been friends for a long time and are reconnecting. It gives the feeling that now the time was right for them to be together.

Sunday, July 24, 2022

Week 28 and 29.

 

Aaron's Awakening (Maine Men #6)Aaron's Awakening by K.C. Wells
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I love how Dean and Aaron really friend their way into a relationship. This story is sweet and low angst. I love how they just enjoy each other's company. I also like that Dean is brave enough to give things a chance despite things that happened in the past. They bring out great things in each other.
I listened to the audio version and really enjoyed it.

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

Charlie had to make some hard decisions in his life and hasn't really done much for himself for years. Daniel is just getting settled. And as they come together things really develop nicely for each of them. I also like how their friends are so supportive of both men. This was a fun story and an easy read.

View all my reviews Lemon Chiffon (Little Cakes #2)Lemon Chiffon by Pepper North
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I love how Bear makes Daisy feel safe from the beginning in different situations. He also respects her position as a business owner. I like much respect they have for each other. I like the way the way that we also got to see the interaction with the other littles. This is a sweet story of two people coming together.

View all my reviews Mr. UptightMr. Uptight by Felice Stevens
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

There were times when I got frustrated at both of these men and the way that neither one of them was being honest about their feelings. But you could also respect their history both personally and the interaction with each other. The road to a relationship was rocky and put to the test but I love that in the end they worked it out and were strong for it.
I listened to the audio version and enjoyed it very much.

View all my reviews A Monumental Love (Destination Daddies Season Two)A Monumental Love by Sammi Cee
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I really love how Nigel's mom is the catalyst to get things moving and then also benefits from the changes in her son's life. I appreciated the fact that both men are attracted to each other before they even know anything about the other. I also love the fact that Omar is willing to make the changes necessary to be a part of Nigel's life. A great addition the Destination Daddies series.

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Saturday, July 16, 2022

Weeks 26 and 27

 I was traveling for the last two weeks so I had a bit more reading time.  But, all my walking steps were taken with others so no audio books were finished.  But back to work on Monday so I should soon be back to "normal" so lots of audio book listening while doing my morning walk and driving back and forth to work and a small amount of time for reading books before I fall asleep at the end of a tiring work day.  



Crazy Little Thing Cold Love (Destination Daddies Season Two)Crazy Little Thing Cold Love by Colette Davison
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I love the way these two men both go in not necessarily looking for long term or even being sure of what they were looking for. I like how Jude decides to be honest with Kasper from the start. I also like the way that Kasper makes it clear that there is nothing wrong with the boy helping out his Daddy. I like how you can see the romance build between the two of them. I also like the reality that just being together doesn't magically make Jude's nightmares and flashback's go away.This story really has some depth to it. Very enjoyable.

View all my reviews Agrippa My Heart (Destination Daddies Season Two)Agrippa My Heart by J.P. Sayle
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I love the connection these two have really from the beginning. We see that Patrick's story starts out with a bad situation. Work also continues to bring trouble. I like how Akker wants to be there for Patrick in what ever ways he can. This was a great story of two men finding their way together and building a life together.

 

View all my reviews A Famous Little Fourth of July (Holidays at Rawhide Ranch #13)A Famous Little Fourth of July by Allie Belle
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I like the fact that Brock has been acting honorably this whole time as he cares for Kyra. Their relationship moves quickly but they already have an established relationship in many ways. I love Brock's care for her. I also loved the fact that she stood up for herself as well. A great addition to this series.

 

View all my reviews His Boy to Heal (Naughty or Nice Season Two)His Boy to Heal by Rheland Richmond
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I love the fact that both men were both are attracted to each both through the app and in real life. There are misunderstandings but they also work through them. Laney is so cute and it was great to see them both building a relationship with her as well. I love how the story has a couple of chapters at the end that let you jump forward to see their lives progressing together.

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Wednesday, July 6, 2022

Week 24 and 25

Mate (Forbidden Desires, #3)Mate by Piper Scott
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I love how feisty Matthieu is from the beginning. He really is the catalyst for so much change not just in the lives of Geoffry and Ian but also for dragons everywhere. I love all the new characters we got to meet in this story. There is so much to love in this story and I’m glad there will be more stories involving this world.
I listened to the audio version and loved it very much.

View all my reviews A Flirty Little Father's Day (Holidays at Rawhide Ranch)A Flirty Little Father's Day by Maggie Ryan
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

This story is pretty low angst. Brooke is there to help out and her friend and runs into Lawson pretty much literally. They hit it off and things move quickly. This story is a easy ready and fun. It focuses more on the dungeon side of the ranch instead of the littles side. You also get to visit with old friends in this story.

View all my reviews A Pancakes Kind of Morning (One of Those Days, #2)A Pancakes Kind of Morning by M.A. Innes
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This story is just cute and sweet from the beginning. When Elliott is taking to his best friend they are overheard. And it turns out well because it gives James the idea to approach Elliott. From there they beginning to work out their relationship. This story was a great relaxing read.

View all my reviews Love at First Sighting (Destination Daddies Season Two)Love at First Sighting by Chloe Gray
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I love how these two find each other and how perfect they are for each other. They hit it off from the beginning and are a good fit for each other. I like how both of them come to a similar conclusion at the same time. They are so sweet.

View all my reviews Beat of Their Own Drum (Replay, #3)Beat of Their Own Drum by K.M. Neuhold
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I love the arch of this story. Archer cares for all the members of the band but has concerns especially for Jude and his destructive behavior. He is willing to bring back his past. I also appreciate how Bennett is willing to put his feeling out there. I also like how Jude’s needs are always taken into consideration. These three blend so well together. It is a very strong story on it’s own and blended into the series as well.
I listened to the audio version and it was very enjoyable.

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