Showing posts with label Forbidden. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Forbidden. Show all posts

Review // Filthy Deal by Lisa Renee Jones

February 21, 2024

Filthy Deal by Lisa Renee Jones

Off limits romance, intensely alpha hero, MF, standalone, dual POVPreviously published as the Filthy Trilogy, BUT this has been heavily updated. Same deliciously sexy story, new and improved delivery and scenes.

Find it here: Goodreads * Amazon


Filthy Deal by Lisa Renee Jones

Filthy Deal by Lisa Renee Jones


Rating -
Standalone - Scandalous Billionaires #1
Release - March 7, 2024
Genre - Contemporary Romance / forbidden
POV - Dual 1st person
Heat - several descriptive scenes
Source - eARC provided by the author
Length - 581 pages

They say my father is ruthless, CEO of the Kingston empire, while I remain the illegitimate backup heir, son to his mistress. He sent me to Harvard where he no doubt expected me to fail but I don't fail anymore than I take charity. My mother is dead, and not only do I blame him, if I had my way he'd be dead, too.

But I finished school and did it on my own dime. Now I'm the right-hand man to Grayson Bennett, the billionaire who runs the Bennett Empire, only a few months from being a billionaire myself. I don't need my father's company or his love. My "brother" and my new stepmother can have it all.

And then she walks in the door, my stepsister, the princess I'd once wanted more than I'd wanted my father's love. She wants me to come back. She says my father needs to be saved. She doesn't know how dangerous a ground she walks, how deadly, too. I don't want to save my father, I want to end him, but on the other hand, I do want her. Deeply. Passionately. More than I want anything else.

But she's the princess and I'm the illegitimate son. We don't fit. We don't belong together and yet, she says he needs me, that she needs me. We're like sugar and spice, we don't mix, but I really crave a taste. Just one. What harm can just one taste do?

After all, I'm just like my father, or so I'm told.
I'm ruthless in business and ruthless about getting what I want.
And I want her.


Part One: The Bastard ~ This story was almost overwhelming in its passion. It felt at times as if I was stuck in the erotic embrace of the couple while learning virtually nothing about the situation at hand. There's something going on at Eric's dad's company... something that is potentially dangerous... something that has jeopardized lives... and yet I'm no closer to figuring out what that something is at the end of this book. I hope it all becomes clear in the next one.

There's no doubt that Eric and Harper share a once-in-a-lifetime connection. Their connection never broke during their six year separation. I'm not sure what the future holds for this couple but knowing LRJ, their happy ending is somewhere on the horizon and I'm eager to watch it unfold.

Full review HERE


Part Two: The Princess ~ Aside from wishing that this was told entirely from Eric's perspective, hating Harper, and finding out that it's a filthy trilogy and not a filthy duet, I'm totally on board to discover all of this story's hidden truths and find out what's really going on. LRJ has the amazing ability to completely hold me captive to her stories and keep me guessing and I love it. With one heck of a cliffhanger, where Harper is once again questioning Eric, I'm really looking forward to how this author will close out this couple's saga.

Full review HERE


Part Three: The Empire ~ I love Eric so much! This man, this savant, this SEAL, this self-made billionaire, this honorable and incredible man earned a special place in my heart. I loved him for his inner strength and for his vulnerabilities. I admired his perseverance and his ability to see the big picture. I never doubted him and I'm glad that Harper learned not to as well. I must admit that I found parts of their dialogue and Harper's inner thoughts a bit repetitive, but I was still able to be wowed by this couple's romance. The Empire perfectly wrapped up the love and intrigue that the Filthy Trilogy successfully portrayed and I can't wait to see where all of these characters end up next!

Full review HERE

Review // Show Off by Lani Lynn Vale

October 24, 2023

Show Off by Lani Lynn Vale

I liked when he acted all possessive and cave man like.
It made me feel wanted and accepted.
Something I didn't know that I desperately needed until he'd given it to me.


Show Off by Lani Lynn Vale

Show Off by Lani Lynn Vale


My Rating - ★★★★1/2
Standalone - Welcome to the Circus #3
Genre - Contemporary Romance
Trope - forbidden / brother's friend
POV - Dual 1st person
Heat - several descriptive scenes
Source - eARC from the author
Length - 262 pages

Other books in the series: Fun House * Freak Show

Seventy shades of messed up.

That was what she’d been told about herself for nearly her entire life.

From a young age, she knew what it was like to be hated. To be loathed so much by a person that they literally resented the air you breathed.

For her entire childhood, she fought to live, despite her father’s constant effort to make her life a living hell.
Her sisters and brother have no clue what kind of closet psychopath their father really was, and she’ll die before she ruins their picture-perfect view of him.

Why? Because she’s already broken. There’s no fixing this kind of damaged. But there’s no reason everyone else needs to suffer, too.

***

From the moment Hannibal Peters laid eyes on Hades Singh, he knew she was the one.
That was why he ran.

That was why, when he saw her suffering, he couldn’t stay away.

Find it here: Goodreads * Amazon


Show Off by Lani Lynn Vale

My Two Cents

I had no clue how Lani Lynn Vale would redeem Hades Singh in my eyes, but after reading this book, I realized that I should never have doubted this author.

I absolutely freaking loved Hades!!

I actually like her more than I like her twin, Caristonia.
Go figure.

Hades was seriously misunderstood and the first person to see her, to really see her, was Hannibal. He understood her in a way that she didn't even know she craved. He filled all of her empty places and this author captured their relationship so perfectly.

There's a stalker after her sister and Hades is determined to catch him and stop him... with Hannibal's help. He's a veteran with his own security company so who better to have on her side? With their instantaneous connection and insane chemistry leading the way, it was no wonder that these two quickly realized how nicely they fit each other.

Her family was a bit oblivious, but I'm glad that Hades worked with them so that they could all be in a better place. I'm a huge fan of this family and the side characters introduced and can't wait to continue this series.

The Author

Lani Lynn Vale is married to the love of her life that she met in high school. She fell in love with him because he was wearing baseball pants. Ten years later they have three perfectly crazy children and a cat named Demon who likes to wake her up at ungodly times in the night. They live in the greatest state in the world, Texas. She writes contemporary and romantic suspense, and has a love for all things romance. You can find Lani in front of her computer writing away in her fictional characters world...that is until her husband and kids demand sustenance in the form of food and drink.

Visit https://lanilynnvale.com for more information!

Review // How I Stole the Princess's White Knight and Turned Him to Villainy by AJ Sherwood

August 07, 2023


What’s a white knight to do when his princess is causing utter havoc leading in mass murder? Go to the famous Black Sorcerer of Grimslock for help, apparently.

What’s a black sorcerer to do when the white knight comes to him for help? Keep him, naturally.

Devan does not approve of this payment plan. Tan does.

FYI: This series is an MM Interracial Fantasy Romance I read through Kindle Unlimited


How I Stole the Princess's White Knight and Turned Him to Villainy

Villainy #1


My Rating - ★★★★


POV - Dual 3rd person
Heat - mentions of sexy times, but nothing's happened yet
Length - 103 pages

Find it here: Goodreads * Amazon


Diving into the world created for Devan and Tan was a strange delight. These characters cracked me up. For a start, our heroes are set to rescue an entire village from a barbarian rampage. The princess has planned to sacrifice all of the people. Devan has another plan. As her most dedicated, fierce, and loyal knight, he seeks out the black sorcerer for aid. Tan does not disappoint. Throw in some mystical shenanigans, Tan's inappropriateness, Devan's stoicness, and everything in between, I was freaking rolling. Tan begging for cuddles as payment gave me life! I had so much fun reading this book and knew from the first bit that I'd be continuing this series.


How I Stole the Princess's White Knight and Turned Him to Villainy

Villainy #2


My Rating - ★★★★


POV - Dual 3rd person
Heat - mentions of sexy times, but nothing's happened yet
Length - 98 pages

Find it here: Goodreads * Amazon


Still the same creative dynamic in this book. Devan has been tasked with hunting a strange creature in the woods who only hunts adults. It tears their throats out and drains them dry. Sound familiar? When Devan goes up against it, he finds himself swiftly outmatched and in need of help. Who does he call?

Tan couldn't be happier to help Devan, but he's livid that the Princess, once again, shows a lack of concern for everyone's favourite knight. We're introduced to Tan's siblings, who are almost as ridiculous as he is. His sister, Fa, is a hot mess of comedic delights and his brother, Niran, is a necromance unlike any other I've experienced before. I'm serious, these characters are full of fun. Our heroes take on the undead with glee and I was excited to see the deep level of trust developing between Devan and Tan.

Are we one huge step closer to happily ever after? Tan hopes so!!


How I Stole the Princess's White Knight and Turned Him to Villainy

Villainy #3


My Rating - ★★★★


POV - Dual 3rd person
Heat - mentions of sexy times, but nothing's happened yet
Length - 91 pages

Find it here: Goodreads * Amazon


Could these characters be any sweeter? The grumpy/sunshine dynamic between these two is so fun! I'm in love with their every interaction, their banter, and the wacky adventures they find themselves a part of. In this book, Tan and Devan are in search of a magical sword.

I enjoyed the fact that they were in a new town, that Tan was using some new magic, and that Devan was fighting the very endearing temptation right in front of him.

Am I the only one who finds it hilarious how quickly our heroes dispatch the dumdums who think they have what it takes to best them?

There's more hilarity, some action, and Tan couldn't stop flirting to save his life.

When will Devan finally give in?


How I Stole the Princess's White Knight and Turned Him to Villainy

Villainy #4


My Rating - ★★★★


POV - Dual 3rd person
Heat - FINALLY!! A descriptive scene towards the end
Length - 95 pages

Find it here: Goodreads * Amazon


This latest adventure takes Devan and Tan on the high seas. Kinda. Devan's cousin reaches out to him for help because several ships have been capsized and the crews were missing. What is lurking out there?

My biggest takeaway of this book was that Devan and Tan finally consummated their relationship. All of the back and forth, the delicious sexual tension, and absolutely adorable banter brought us to the moment we had all been waiting for... hot sex!

Yes, there was plenty of action and adventure, I was surprised (and strangely excited) to see Tan in a rage, but I was happy to be here for all of it. Especially because Devan finally gave in to what was obviously between them.

Love is in the air people and I can't wait to see how it factors into the stories to come.


How I Stole the Princess's White Knight and Turned Him to Villainy

Villainy #5


My Rating - ★★★★★


POV - Dual 3rd person
Heat - a bit more than descriptive
Length - 88 pages

Find it here: Goodreads * Amazon


For this adventure, our heroes don't really have to go anywhere. Tan is determined to fix his past mistakes (The Void), but something goes wrong. He's magically depleted, left unconscious, found by other adventurers, and portalled to the dungeon of Goodwine. It's up to Devan to get him out and he has an ingenous plan to do so. I loved this issue!

Full of more shenanigans, this book showed us how close Devan and Tan had grown, not that it was ever in doubt. Devan is even more pressed to find a solution to having his cake and eating it too. He wants to spend his life with Tan, but he can't abandon his people to the whims of a mad woman. How are they going to make this work?

Well, this author hasn't disappointed me yet with this story, so book 6 is already loaded up!


How I Stole the Princess's White Knight and Turned Him to Villainy

Villainy #6


My Rating - ★★★★★


POV - Dual 3rd person
Heat - a bit more than descriptive
Length - 95 pages

Find it here: Goodreads * Amazon


Devan needed to find a way to protect the people from Princess Serenity while being with the love of his life. Tan just wanted whatever made Devan happy and was willing to do any and everything for his man. Somehow they made it work and I loved it!

Both men were their badass selves. The people knew who they wanted to rule and it wasn't Serenity of her father, the king. And I was giddy getting to read all about it!

Honestly, if you like stories about adventure, action, hilarious ridiculousness and tons of love, you need to grab this series up. Devan and Tan, their motley crew of allies, and everything they all experience and do, will keep you entertained!!

Review // Ember Glen Trilogy by Brynn Ford

May 12, 2023

Ember Glen Trilogy by Brynn Ford

I could never match the strength and bravery of Mercy Madness.
No one ever could, and no one ever will.

──────────── ♔ ────────────


Ember Glen Trilogy by Brynn Ford

Spark of Madness by Brynn Ford


Ember Glen #1
Release - July 21, 2022
Genre - Dark Romance / dystopian, forbidden
POV - Dual 1st person
Heat - 5 out of 5
Format - ebook borrowed from Kindle Unlimited
Length - 320 pages

Mercy is a sinner, and Arlo is no saint

MERCY - For years, I've served the men of Ember Glen. I've endured their depravity because it's required. But when the most vicious man in our village decides to target me during a purge, I have to make a choice…

I can kneel and serve…
or I can run and become a sinner.

I choose sin…
I choose to run.

Only, I didn't expect another man to chase me…
I didn't expect the harrowing punishments he'd make me endure once I was caught…
And I certainly didn't expect to find passion for him.

The man who calls me a sinner sets my soul on fire.

Ember Glen Trilogy by Brynn Ford

REVIEW ~ 4 stars


Let me start off by saying THANK YOU to Jessica @Chatterbooks Book Blog, From her rave review of the series, I knew I had to give it a try. Dark romance, dystopian society, strong heroine, horrific experiences, sinners and servants… Spark of Madness has all of that and more.

I admired the heck out of Mercy. She seemed to be the only one who questioned her place in life. She was the only one who spoke up for how wrong things were. Why were men allowed to subjugate, abuse, and generally mistreat women with no consequences? Why were women punished for questioning or refusing the status quo? She was a warrior for her people, even if they couldn’t see or acknowledge it.

After recently watching The Handmaid’s Tale, I couldn’t help drawing parallels, but at the same time, this story is so different. The construct of this society is also mired in twisted religion, women are oppressed, meant to be seen and to serve, not to have thoughts or feelings or to be heard. Select men are chosen to rule over everyone and each caste has a certain set of rules they must follow. In that vein, Arlo reminded me of Nick, in that he lives in the society and, until meeting Mercy, he believed in the principles of that society. However, he starts to question himself and those around him. While he first tries to rationalize it, it seems he’s coming to accept that something’s wrong with what he was forced to believe.

Arlo isn't a hero in my eyes... yet. But with the way this author writes, I can easily see her convincing me to like him.

My thoughts for the rest of this series:
- Killian must die. The elders must die.
- I think that the idea of no world beyond Ember’s Glen is a lie. I think normal society exists and this cultish environment exists outside of accepted society. I hope Mercy burns down this place and finds a new home in the real world. That would be my hope for her happy ending. I’m not sold on that ending being with Arlo, but I’m guessing the next two books will work to change my mind.

──────────── ♔ ────────────


Ember Glen Trilogy by Brynn Ford

Blaze of Misery by Brynn Ford


Ember Glen #2
Release - October 20, 2022
Genre - Dark Romance / dystopian, forbidden
POV - Dual 1st person
Heat - 5 out of 5
Format - ebook borrowed from Kindle Unlimited
Length - 404 pages

ARLO
She's destined to die, yet she consumes my every waking thought.

I'm struggling against everything I've been taught to believe.
I'm falling for a sinner, and my passion for her is destroying my world.

As Mercy endures untold torment at the hands of my brothers, my soul splinters, breaking in ways I didn't know were possible. I want her so much it consumes me. I need her so much that I'd burn for eternity in exchange for a single moment with her...if only I could sell my soul to spare her life.

The fear of her looming death begs my mind to open, and all I want is a world where she lives.

MERCY
Absolution. They could etch the word into my skin, and still, it would never find me.

The trials for my soul begin, but they aren't truly meant to save me.
Nothing can save me from the way I've been broken by the men of Ember Glen.

The man who hurt me the most is also the man whose touch sets me on fire. Arlo Rainn hasn’t earned my thoughts, my attention, or my desire, yet he possesses me entirely. My feelings for him strengthen as we explore our forbidden passion, and as he comes to know me better, he begins to see the world through my eyes.

My warden's perspective is shifting, and I fall deeper into the madness of my need for him.

Ember Glen Trilogy by Brynn Ford

REVIEW ~ 5 stars


I couldn’t sleep from reading and wanting to continue reading this book. I’m freaking hooked and can’t wait to see the next hurdle Mercy must pass. This woman is so strong, full of compassion, with a certain sweetness and softness I find so endearing. The warrior within her is blazing through and I can’t wait to continue to see her fight.

I still think Killian has to die. This dude is cruel and deserves punishment that meets his crimes and actions. Death is the only solution.

I’m not sure how I feel about the other members of The Control. Owen seems to be reasonable (if a lot delusional), Wesley seems to take pleasure in being cruel (and yet try to appear kind), Ryker seems to be a determined Killian follower (like that guy needs anyone to encourage his wickedness), and the other member I don’t even remember. I hope Theo is a help rather than a hindrance in the rebellion to come.

I wonder where the missing pages of Mercy’s mother’s journal are. Who made sure she found the journal in the first place? And what do those pages have to say?

I’m curious about what exists outside of Ember Glen. I’m sure it’s a futuristic version of our society and I hope I get a chance to see Mercy thrive in the freedom of it.

──────────── ♔ ────────────


Ember Glen Trilogy by Brynn Ford

Embers of Mercy by Brynn Ford


Ember Glen #3
Release - March 31, 2023
Genre - Dark Romance / dystopian, forbidden
POV - Dual 1st person
Heat - 5 out of 5
Format - ebook borrowed from Kindle Unlimited
Length - 356 pages

MERCY
Death has always been chasing me, and I fear it's finally caught up.

If this trial doesn't end my life, it will surely take my mind.
And nothing could have prepared me for the despair yet to come.

Though everything seems hopeless, my love for Arlo remains constant. A part of me wants to give up and fade away with him. But secrets are being kept, and though I never expected to live long enough to learn the truth, a brewing rebellion might be the end of it all.

If Arlo and I are going down in flames, at least we can burn Ember Glen down with us.

ARLO
The end of everything approaches, and I've never felt so lost.

I'm sickened by the trial Mercy is forced to endure.
If I could complete it in her stead, I would trade places with her in a heartbeat.

I can't do anything for her, and it wrecks my soul. My sanity is shattered, and I lose all control. And though my actions draw death nearer, its imminence inspires boldness. When we finally discover the truth, we have nothing left to lose.

One way or another, Mercy and I will end this—either everything will change, or we'll leave this place burning in our wake.

Ember Glen Trilogy by Brynn Ford

REVIEW ~ 4.5 stars


It's the last book of the trilogy and it gave me almost everything I could have wanted in an ending.

❥ bring on the rebellion
❥ let all castes unite
❥ Kill all those who NEED to die
❥ a happy ending for those who definitely deserve it

I'm being intentionally vague, but my only issue with this final book was that I wanted more. I wanted to spend time with Mercy and Arlo as they enjoyed their freedom. I wanted to really know what life was like for them away from Ember Glen and I wanted more justice to be found.

You know me... I'm a greedy goose.

If you love dark romance with horrific elements, situations that really push your boundaries, and love that shines a bright light through the darkness, then you NEED this series on your to-read list.

Review // Gift of Dragons by Aja James

March 22, 2023

Gift of Dragons by Aja James

In the lifetime he'd served her as her protector and slave, then as a freed leader of men, he'd only ever wanted one thing:

To be her equal.
To be her man.

────── ♔ ──────


Gift of Dragons by Aja James

Gift of Dragons by Aja James


Dragon Tails #7
Release - July 1, 2023
Genre - Paranormal Romance / forbidden
POV - Multiple 3rd person
Heat - 5 out of 5
Format - Beta read & ARC
Length - 343 pages


Every lore of every clan, across time and space, dreamed of dragons. Did you ever wonder why?

Benjamin D’Angelo is off on a new quest with helpful friends.

As always, their success is limited by seemingly arbitrary rules and an even more arbitrary sandglass of time. The only things they can count on is that: 1) each of their quests takes them to a time in the past, 2) they will witness (and perhaps even enable) True Love along the way, and 3) the Universal Balance hangs in...well, the balance.

Their seventh task is to uncover the Secret Gift.

My Two Cents

Love is patient.
Love is kind.


No two lovers know this better than Heba and Shai.
From the moment they met, circumstances prevented them from being together.
She was royalty. He was her slave.
Between them grew a love that transcended time, space, situations, and even their best efforts to fight it.

I'll admit, this story touched me in ways the others didn't. The power play between these characters struck a chord in me, wrecking me emotionally, creating all of the angst that I didn't know I craved. All I wanted was for these characters to talk and be free to be together. They had to overcome so much just to love one another.

And I was in love with the many ways Shai and Heba stayed devoted to each other, even before they realized the endless love they felt.

And when finally the true greatness of Shai was revealed... I was as thrilled, awed, and in love as Heba.

He knew what he truly was at last.
He was dragon.
He was man.
A man who loved a mortal woman.
A dragon who could not exist on earth.

One of the things I adore most about this series (and the one before) is the many moving parts it takes to tell this story. It's not just about the couple of the day. It's about everyone and their loves and lives. It's about what happened and what is to come. It's about the mystery surrounding Ben and when it will finally be revealed. It's about so much more than the romance. So much more. I can't help but fall for the people. I've become so invested and the way this author writes her words, the way she puts everything together, the way she's built this world... it will keep me engaged FOREVER!!

The Author

Best-selling author, Aja James, just completed the Pure/ Dark Ones paranormal-fantasy romance series in 2020. If you want your heart battered, bruised, shattered and skewered, then put back together in the most glorious ways, check out the series below. Every couple gets an HEA, but they fight like hell for it on the way.

Aja is now working on her new series, Dragon Tails, because dragons are her favorite shifters of all!

Check out Aja's expanded distribution of the Pure/ Dark Ones series on Google, Apple, Kobo and Barnes & Noble Books.

Visit https://aja-james.blog for more information!

Review // Priest by Sierra Simone

January 30, 2023

Priest by Sierra Simone

Could a vow be not all the way broken?
Could a sin be not all the way committed?

────── ♔ ──────


Priest by Sierra Simone

Priest by Sierra Simone


Standalone - Priest #1
Release - June 29, 2015
Genre - Contemporary Romance / forbidden
POV - Hero 1st person
Heat - 5 out of 5
Format - ebook from Amazon
Length - 354 pages
Publisher - Indie

There are many rules a priest can't break.
A priest cannot marry. A priest cannot abandon his flock. A priest cannot forsake his God.

I've always been good at following rules.
Until she came.
My name is Tyler Anselm Bell. I'm twenty-nine years old. Six months ago, I broke my vow of celibacy on the altar of my own church, and God help me, I would do it again.
I am a priest and this is my confession.

My Two Cents

3.5 "Let him without sin cast the first stone" stars

You better clutch your pearls because this book is absolutely filthy... and I enjoyed the heck out of it!

Tyler and Poppy were two clueless, love-struck people caught up in an impossible situation. He was a priest and she was his greatest temptation. Their lust game was strong. And while I didn't love how predictable this story was, I liked it. I liked how dirty these characters got, desecrating altars and such.

Poppy was hard to take seriously and Tyler came off as a bit pathetic... and yet I still liked them. I did believe that there was too much religion talk. Tyler was feeling guilty all over the place, which was understandable, but if you're not planning on stopping, figure your ish out!

Overall, it was a delicious smutty story and I recommend it to anyone who loves reading anything taboo.

────── ♔ ──────


Midnight Mass by Sierra Simone


Priest #1.5
Release - December 8, 2015
Genre - Contemporary Romance novella
POV - Hero 1st person
Heat - 5 out of 5
Format - ebook from Amazon
Length - 193 pages
Publisher - Indie

We are told that God will punish the wicked. That sinful men will reap what they sow. We are told to scourge our souls with prayer and pain to become clean once again.

Well, here I am. Wicked and sinful. Desperate to become clean…even though it feels so good to be dirty.

But even I never expected what came next.

Even I never expected my punishment to come so soon.

MY REVIEW - 3 stars


I enjoyed the conflict that existed within Tyler. He’d left the church, married his temptation, and was steps away from achieving his doctorate. He should have been happy. Instead, he was a steaming pile of insecurity. He and Poppy were dealing with their new normal, and it wasn’t without its pitfalls. Their happily ever after definitely wasn't easily achieved.

My Two Cents

Sierra is a voracious reader of all things including the smuttiest smut, young adult, piles of non-fiction for research, and everything Bill Bryson (especially on audio).

She loves writing the dirtiest things that she can think of, King Arthur, sparkling water, Tarot, coffee, leggings, and learning new words daily.

Her previous jobs have included firing ceramics, teaching living history lessons in one-room school house in full, 1904-approved school marm attire, and working as a librarian for several years—not in that order

She lives in the Kansas City area with her husband, two children, and two giant dogs. (And two cats, but they're so naughty we don't talk about them.)

Visit https://www.thesierrasimone.com for more information

Review // Hunter Avenged by N.J. Walters

January 18, 2023

Hunter Avenged by N.J. Walters

Nothing in Heaven compared to the pure pleasure of kissing Sven.

────── ♔ ──────


Hunter Avenged by N.J. Walters

Hunter Avenged by N.J. Walters


Standalone - Forgotten Brotherhood #6
Release - January 16, 2023
Genre - Paranormal Romance / forbidden
POV - Dual 3rd person
Heat - 3 out of 5
Format - eARC provided by the publisher
Length - 344 pages
Publisher - Entangled: Amara


It’s taken Viking hunter Sven Knutson six frustrating months to find her. To track down the angel responsible for compromising the Forgotten Brotherhood and waking the drakon. She may be clever. Resourceful. But no one ever gets away from Sven. Ever.

All Rivka longed for as an angel was a chance to serve on Earth and help humans. Instead, it all went impossibly, horribly wrong, and she still doesn’t understand how or even why. All she knows is that she’s on the run—not only from Heaven’s dangerous elite guard, but also from the Brotherhood, who want answers.

She might just have to trust the immortal Viking whose icy blue eyes make her feel almost wickedly human. Because someone wants Rivka dead and the Brotherhood eliminated. Someone powerful enough to take on the most dangerous assassins who have ever lived. Someone who could unleash the fury of both Heaven and Hell…and Rivka is the key.

My Two Cents

4 "Anything for Sven" stars

When I finished reading Bjorn Cursed and met Sven, I knew I needed him to have his own book. And I've been eager for it ever since. I can't begin to tell you how excited I was to finally get his story in my hands. I don't often fangirl the heck out of myself, but I'm fangirling people!

I already knew that Sven was saved and enslaved by the goddess Freya and was now free to live any life he chose. His parents were alive and he could have a relationship with them, but aside from joining The Brotherhood, he's kept his distance.

And maybe, with the weight of destiny on his shoulders, he'll finally give himself a chance to be truly happy and embrace all of his blessings.

I really enjoyed this story. As the conclusion to an incredible series, I was happy to see most of the past characters make an appearance and in such impactful ways. I loved what blossomed between Sven and Rivka. From the way he hunted her around the world to bring her to justice in the plot against The Brotherhood, to his realizing that all he wanted to do was protect her from any and everyone who might have reason to do her harm. Sven was such an amazing hero and Rivka came into her own in such a wonderful way!

She yearned for his touch, enjoyed his intellect, respected his skills, and admired his dedication to the Brotherhood.

This series made N.J. Walters a must-read and must-buy author for me. There are incredibly gifted heroes, exciting plots and connections, and so much freaking love!

The Author

Once upon a time N.J. had the idea that she would like to quit her job at the bookstore, sell everything she owned, leave her hometown, and write romance novels in a place where no one knew her. And she did. Two years later, she went back to the bookstore and her hometown and settled in for another seven years.

One day she gave notice at her job on a Friday morning. On Sunday afternoon, she received a tentative acceptance for her first erotic romance novel and life would never be the same. N.J. has always been a voracious reader, and now she spends her days writing novels of her own. Vampires, werewolves, dragons, time-travelers, seductive handymen, and next-door neighbors with smoldering good looks—all vie for her attention. It’s a tough life, but someone’s got to live it.

Visit http://www.njwalters.com for more information!

Review // Broken Angel by Cynthia Eden

January 01, 2023

Broken Angel by Cynthia Eden

"You're in my soul, Lila.
The only good part that I have left."

────── ♔ ──────


Broken Angel by Cynthia Eden

Broken Angel by Cynthia Eden


Standalone - Bad Things #4
Release - December 13, 2016
Genre - Paranormal Romance / instant connection / forbidden
POV - Multiple 3rd person
Heat - 3.5 out of 5
Format - ebook from Amazon
Length - 202 pages
Publisher - Indie

A fallen angel has a bad side...and that side is about to be set free.

Angel Lila is being hunted - she can feel the hunter closing in behind her. Every move she makes, he's stalking after her. But does the werewolf on her trail want to destroy her - or can he protect her from the growing darkness that she is trying so desperately to fight?

Werewolf Rayce Lovel doesn't know what to do with an angel - especially one who makes him think too much about paradise. Lila may be heavenly, but every time he's near her, Rayce wants to sin. Angels aren't supposed to feel, but Lila was introduced to the world by way of pain. Pain is all she's known for far too long, and now, Rayce is tempted to introduce gorgeous Lila to pleasure.

But the longer an angel stays out of heaven, the more dangerous she can become. Lila sinks deeper into the darkness with each night that passes, and she finds herself becoming a pawn in an eternal battle...good versus evil. Is Rayce really her protector? Perhaps he is just the hungry wolf who has been sent to ensure that Lila never sets foot back in her paradise.

My Two Cents

4 "She'll Always Be His Angel" stars

Instalove with a forbidden romance twist? I'm here for all of it!

After rescuing Lila, she went off the grid and Rayce has been searching for her ever since. He's supposed to be looking for her for his friend, the Lord of the Dark, but all he wants to do is protect her from anything that can hurt her—even if it means saving her from himself. But what happens when even his best intentions lead them down a dangerous path?

As a fallen angel, Lila has no idea what's happening to her. But something is definitely happening to her and the author did a great job of capturing her fear, anxiety, and hopelessness. However, with all of her doubts, there was one thing (or one person) she was pretty sure of... Rayce.

And I couldn't get enough of Rayce.

As an Alpha werewolf, he was wild, he was fierce, he was dominating and controlling, but he was also kind and sweet and generous and loving and amazing.

With tons of action, this story had me turning the pages very quickly and I'm looking forward to reading more from this series.

The Author


Award-winning author Cynthia Eden writes sexy tales of contemporary romance, romantic suspense, and paranormal romance. She is a New York Times, USA Today, Digital Book World, and IndieReader best-seller. Since she began writing full-time in 2005, Cynthia has written over one hundred novels and novellas.

Cynthia lives along the Alabama Gulf Coast. She loves romance novels, horror movies, and chocolate. Her favorite hobbies including hiking in the mountains (searching for waterfalls) and spelunking.

Visit http://www.cynthiaeden.com for more information!

Review // Suck This by Lani Lynn Vale

September 10, 2022

Suck This by Lani Lynn Vale

Constantine Worth was beautiful, and I wanted to climb him like a freakin' tree... though I hear that's not acceptable in today's day and age. Or, well, in any day and age.

────── ♔ ──────


Suck This by Lani Lynn Vale

Suck This by Lani Lynn Vale


Standalone
Release - September 13, 2022
Genre - Paranormal Romance / vamps / forbidden
Dual POV - 1st person
Heat - 3.5 out of 5 / very slow build (sex towards the end)
Format/Source - eARC provided by Uplifting Author Services
Length - approx. 250 pages
Publisher - Indie

Blood, sex and alcohol.

That was what Club Worth was all about.

Ever since vampires had come out to the world, people had been obsessed. Take a walk on the wild side and see what the nightclub was all about.

Acadia Powell, on the other hand, didn’t do vampires. Nor did she do messy.

What she did do was stay away from people like Constantine Worth, Master of the City, and the most gorgeous man in the history of men. It didn’t matter that he had hypnotizing eyes, beautiful lips, and the sexiest body she’d ever had the privilege of laying eyes on.

It should be easy for her to stay away, but with each subsequent encounter, it’s becoming harder and harder to fight the growing need inside of her.

***

Constantine Worth knew that Acadia was off limits. Not only was she human and not willing to slum it with the undead, but she was also the baby sister of the city’s chief of police. The man that liked to arrest him every other day and twice on Sunday.

He should hate her based solely on the last name she shared with her brother. Yet each time he sees her, he forgets that he’s supposed to be playing nice. She sets his blood to boil, and each time she lets the verbal slurs flow, he finds it harder and harder to maintain his distance.

Soon, he will have to make a choice. Maintain his upstanding relationship with human law enforcement, or take what he wants, and damn the consequences.

My Two Cents

3.5 "Constantine lover right here" stars

Con wanted Acadia.
Acadia wanted Con.
These two couldn't keep their eyes or their thoughts off of each other.
Too bad Acadia's human.
Funny how forbidden fruit is always the sweetest!

When one of my favorite authors decides to dabble, once again, with paranormal romance, you better believe I was gonna be all over that! LLV's books are my solace and I found some comfort with this one.

While this story tackled some ugliness (those activists were no joke), I couldn't help but be enamored by all that was developing between Con and Acadia. He was so mysterious and utterly irresistible to her. And although she was supposed to be off limits, he couldn't help but give into temptation, again and again and again.



Not gonna lie, I did have some issues with this story.
* It was a bit all over the place and I sometimes felt like I was dumped in the middle of an untold story.
* Acadia had a best friend, but aside from a couple of scenes, that friend was never seen again. Which was weird because Acadia went through something intense. Where was her friend then?
* other than putting the blame for what happened to Acadia at their feet, the human activists were never really put to justice that I could see. Does that mean her case is still open?
* Con's organization, his foothold on their town, his allies, everything that was a part of him was so vaguely mentioned, but I wanted some more details. For example, his dad popped up on page. More please!
* Con's dead daughter and undead wife. Ummm... why wasn't this properly explored? What happens now?
* Acadia's entire life was vague. She was such a one-dimensional character that I struggled to give her a chance.
* Honestly, more details about the important stuff and less about the unimportant stuff would have worked well.

About the Author

Lani Lynn Vale is married to the love of her life that she met in high school. She fell in love with him because he was wearing baseball pants. Ten years later they have three perfectly crazy children and a cat named Demon who likes to wake her up at ungodly times in the night. They live in the greatest state in the world, Texas. She writes contemporary and romantic suspense, and has a love for all things romance. You can find Lani in front of her computer writing away in her fictional characters world...that is until her husband and kids demand sustenance in the form of food and drink.

Visit https://lanilynnvale.com/ for more information!

Review // Birthday Girl by Penelope Douglas

July 26, 2022

Birthday Girl by Penelope Douglas

Now get inside and take off your clothes. I’ve had a whole day to dream up the theme park I’m going to make of your body tonight, girl.

────── ♔ ──────


Birthday Girl by Penelope Douglas

Birthday Girl by Penelope Douglas


Standalone
Release - April 15, 2018
Genre - Contemporary Romance / age gap / forbidden
Dual POV - 1st person
Heat Level - 3 out of 5 / a couple of scenes, not very graphic
Format/Source - ebook purchase from Amazon / own the paperback
Length - 407 pages
Publisher - Indie

Goodreads * Amazon (FREE with KU)


JORDAN

He took me in when I had nowhere else to go. He doesn’t use me, hurt me, or forget about me. He listens to me, protects me, and sees me. I can feel his eyes on me over the breakfast table, and my heart pumps so hard when I hear him pull in the driveway after work.

I have to stop this. It can’t happen.

My sister once told me there are no good men, and if you find one, he’s probably unavailable. Only Pike Lawson isn’t the unavailable one.
I am.

PIKE

I took her in, because I thought I was helping. As the days go by, though, it’s becoming anything but easy. I have to stop my mind from drifting to her and stop holding my breath every time I bump into her in the house. I can’t touch her, and I shouldn’t want to.

But we’re not free to give into this. She’s nineteen, and I’m thirty-eight.

And her boyfriend’s father.

Unfortunately, they both just moved into my house.

My Two Cents

4 "Touching the Untouchable" stars

This story was as messy as I expected it to be.
I enjoyed the meet-cute between Jordan and Pike. They realized right away how compatible and easy things were between them. Too bad she's his son's girlfriend. And when they're practically forced to move in with him, the tension... the angst...Next level, my friends.

Pike was definitely swoon-worthy. He did everything in his power to resist the pull of all that was Jordan. He had the patience of a saint when she threw tantrums or generally acted her age. He loved the heck out of his loser son. He was a great friend, boss, dad, etc. He was awesome!

And this story...

I'll admit, it left me feeling a bit dirty, which is good because it is a taboo read. But I kept thinking to myself, "Am I supposed to forget she was banging his son?" and "Does the comparison between son and father, at least sexually, ever come up?" and then, overall, I've got "Ewww."

All together, it worked. It was full of angst, the push and pull to be expected of a forbidden relationship, the bits of romance sprinkled in inappropriate ways, and the ick. It worked and I'd gladly recommend it to those who love love, in all of its forms.

About the Author

Penelope Douglas is a New York Times, USA Today, and Wall Street Journal bestselling author. Their books have been translated into nineteen languages and include The Fall Away Series, The Devil’s Night Series, and the stand-alones, Misconduct, Punk 57, Birthday Girl, Credence, and Tryst Six Venom.

From Penelope Douglas's website:

Hi! My name is Penelope Douglas, and I write romance. New adult, erotica, a little contemporary… Really whatever is calling me at the moment. I believe a good writer can spin any story in a way with which you’ll connect, and I endeavor to do just that with every book I write. Not many topics are too taboo for me. I love breaking rules, and I love taking myself out of my comfort zone.

Visit https://pendouglas.com for more information

Review // Always Been You by Q.B. Tyler

March 14, 2022

Always Been You by Q.B. Tyler

It's a weird thing when you're in love with someone in your family. Fights or disagreements with them feel personal in two ways that somehow have to co-exist within you. I'm his sister and the person he may be closest to in life. He's my best friend and I never wanted to be on weird terms with him. But I'm also in love with him which makes things difficult in their own way.

────── ♔ ──────


Always Been You by Q.B. Tyler

Always Been You by Q.B. Tyler


Standalone
Release - March 3, 2022
Genre - Taboo Contemporary Romance / interracial
Dual POV - 1st person
Heat Level - 5 out of 5 / frequent and spicy
Format/Source - ebook borrowed through Kindle Unlimited
Length - 256 pages
Publisher - Indie

Goodreads * Amazon (FREE to read with KU)

Wrong. Sinful. Taboo.

I know I shouldn't want him.

I know I shouldn't touch myself in the middle of the night as thoughts of him run through my mind.

Thoughts of his kiss, his touch, his love.

I'd spent years obsessing over the man I thought I couldn't have.

But as it turns out, he wants me too.

And he wants me now.

My Two Cents

3.5 "If loving you is wrong, I don't wanna be right" stars

I'll be honest... taboo reads haven't really been on my radar lately. I can't even remember when the last time my eyes even came across one. However, when I read this review from Sonya, I couldn't pass it up. She made it sound so good and I'm happy to say that I agree. At least for the most part.

So this isn't your typical 'he's my stepbrother and we're now involved. There's some fallout and a happy ending' kind of read. This is about adopted siblings. Gabi was adopted when she was two. She was a part of the family in every single way.

But what's a girl to do when she falls in love with her older brother?

Knowing they can't be together doesn't keep her heart from aching for him. It doesn't stop her body's longing for him.

So what happens when she finds out he feels the same way?

"Gabrielle." He turns around and I can see the anguish in his features. Does he... feel the same things I feel? "In another life..." he leans down, "I'd make you so happy, and it just kills me sometimes that it can't be this life."

I liked a lot of what this story offered. The writing was definitely on point. The chemistry between the characters was beyond sizzling. The drama was actually kept to a minimum, if you can believe it. I even liked the dynamic explored by Gabi and James in their new relationship. I found it more realistic that they were being realistic about how strange their circumstances were. They knew it was messed up, they knew that many people would be grossed out, but their love wouldn't allow any of that to matter.

"I don't see this ending with James. I wouldn't have crossed this line if I was ever planning to uncross it."

"You say that, but you don't know what life has in store for you. You're eighteen, Gab. You don't have your life figured out yet."

"Maybe not, but I do have who I want to spend it with figured out."

I do wish this story encompassed more than just the sexual chemistry between the characters. I know, I can't believe I even typed that, but it's true. There were some flashbacks that missed the mark on showing me the depth of their relationship. It was more tell than show and I would have loved to see the before better. Overall, a very solid read and I can easily recommend it to anyone looking for a bit more than a splash of taboo in their romance.

About the Author

Write. Wine. Work. Repeat.

A look inside the mind of a not so ex-party girl's escape from her crazy life. Hailing from the nation's capital, q.B. Tyler, spends her days constructing her "Happily ever afters" with a twist, featuring sassy heroines and the heroes that worship them. But most importantly the love story that develops despite inconvenient circumstances.

Check out https://authorqbtyler.com/ for more information

Review // Marked for Seduction by S.J. Rowe

October 07, 2021

Marked for Seduction by S.J. Rowe

"It's your choice. How do you want to meet the Almighty, as a thief or as someone trying to make amends for her past crimes?" - Maliki to Tess

────── ♔ ──────


Marked for Seduction by S.J. Rowe

Marked for Seduction by S.J. Rowe


Standalone - Cain and Abel series #1
Release - August 14, 2021
Genre - Paranormal Romance / slightly enemies-to-lovers and slightly forbidden
Primarily Dual POV - 3rd person
Heat Level - 3.5 out of 5 / a few scenes
Format/Source - ebook provided by the author
Page Count - 216
Publisher - Indie

Thieves don’t get caught…

However, Tess’s career both started and stopped when she was. Her hand wasn’t the only thing she would lose this time. What was she to do: save her skin or let another die?

Primes choose loyalty over personal joy…

For over 200 years, Maliki didn’t regret exchanging his death for a life filled with duty and to right the wrongs that killed him. Under the watchful eye of an outsider makes it harder, especially with one that keeps tugging on a heart he thought was lost. When forced to choose, will he kill the Kayen, the soulless creatures of the night, or the talented thief hired to steal the secrets of his hidden society?

Does love make a soul whole?

Forced to work together: one to save three lives, the other thousands. Are they willing to push aside their desire to find those that betrayed them? Both have no problem surrendering their souls to spare another’s life, but are they willing to sacrifice their hearts this time?

Purchase Links

Amazon CA 🡪 https://amzn.to/3l6EJp0
Amazon US 🡪 https://amzn.to/2WCve7I
Amazon UK 🡪 https://amzn.to/3uzF4nu
Amazon AU 🡪 https://amzn.to/3A7qN2x

Free to read with Kindle Unlimited

My Two Cents

I love when a new-to-me author's work gives me the giggles. Marked for Seduction was funny, sexy, and a wee bit suspenseful. Throw in some supernatural drama and it made for quite the entertaining read. Tess was a thief with a huge heart while Maliki was a male who was slowly discovering that love could play a part in his life too. They didn't make sense, their romance was almost forbidden, and yet something about them worked.

I'll admit that I'm intrigued by the idea of the whole Cain and Abel secret society of immortals or semi-immortals, locked in an endless battle of good vs. evil. I do wish that I learned more about the inner workings of that society, the people who make it their priority to protect humans, and even the evil ones who look at humans as fodder. For instance, why did I find out so much about everyone else's super powers, but nothing about Maliki's? Did he not have one?

Overall, a solid story and I'll probably read from this author again.

Blood Seeker by Lexi C. Foss // Review + Excerpt

May 05, 2021

Blood Seeker by Lexi C. Foss review

Remember, trust no one. Pay attention to the details. Don't believe everything you hear. And watch your back.
A war is coming.
Which side will you choose?


Blood Seeker by Lexi C. Foss cover

Blood Seeker by Lexi C. Foss


Standalone - Immortal Curse #7
Release - October 24, 2020
Genre - Paranormal Romance
Multiple POV - 3rd person
Heat Level - 3 / a couple of scenes
Format/Source - Amazon Kindle purchase
Length - 286 pages
Publisher - Ninja Newt Publishing, LLC

An unexpected connection led to a forbidden affair that ended in blood. Now Sethios will stop at nothing to find his mate, even if it means risking his life and love in the process.

Caro’s mind is fractured, her body destroyed, her heart broken. She thought he would come for her, save her, free her from this nightmare. But her hope flees with every wave, her soul teetering on the brink of madness.

Will Sethios arrive in time? Or will other powers intervene?

A new prophecy is rising… One that will threaten to destroy them all.

Amazon blurb:

Seraphim do not feel.
Seraphim do not love.
Seraphim do not react.


Those are the rules every higher being lives by. And Caro broke them all for him.

Now she’s lost in a vacant sea, punished for the ultimate sin of choosing an abomination—a vampire—over her duty.

Sethios promised to come for her, to find her, to save her, but with each passing breath, her hope melts into despair.

Will he find her in time? Or will her mind shatter from the madness?

Welcome to the Immortal Curse world.
The High Council of Seraph will see you now...


Find your copy of Blood Seeker here:
Amazon * Nook * Kobo * Indigo * Audible


Blood Seeker by Lexi C. Foss teaser
Blood Seeker by Lexi C. Foss review
I've had this sweet baby of a book sitting on my kindle since release day, but I was waiting. What was I waiting for, you ask? I wanted the next book to be released so that I could continue the story. Do you know how hard it is to finish one of these books, know that there is so much more to come, and not have the next book in sight?! It's excruciating!! I'm telling you, Lexi C. Foss is a master storyteller and I'm drawn to these immortals like Winnie the Pooh and his honey.


That is most definitely me!

Stas is still at the head of a prophecy. Sethios is now up-to-date on everything and is trying to figure out how to be a father to his daughter, who grew up without him. And Caro is somewhere they can't find her. When the family is finally reunited, it's beautiful and it's funny. But those super warm feelings I got when I watched them interact paled in comparison to all of the moving parts of this story.

★ the seraphim aren't as lovely as they seem
★ someone I always believed to be the 'bad guy' may not be as bad as he seemed
★ there is still so much more to know about what is to come
★ Vera... Vera... Vera
★ and it seems that Balthazar is getting his memory back - bound to be good times :)

I believe there is so much more to come and that this story is far from over. And as I impatiently wait for the next book...


I'll implore you to get started!

Check out the other books from this series:


Blood Seeker by Lexi C. Foss excerpt
This was her life. Her purpose. Her meaning.

She loved this man. This Sethios. This male who had shattered all her beliefs and had broken through the harshest of her resolves.

Caro clung to him, weeping, her time with him too short. The sacrifice they would make would change the future of the world. But what if they couldn’t come back from it?

She would never voice that fear, the knowledge of what was to come. Because her mother would find her when she failed to locate Astasiya. Caro would endure rehabilitation. And she would survive.

That was her purpose, her one secret, that she never gave up. With Sethios forever etched into her very soul, the council couldn’t separate them. They would try, and they would fail. She would return to him. Always.

“I love you,” he whispered to her, his lips a caress against her ear. “I will forever love you.”

“I love you, too,” she breathed. And this time it was her. Her voice. Her heart. Her body. Her soul. She’d fallen into the memory, enraptured and ensnared and never letting go.

His eyes burned into hers. “Come back to me, Caro.”

“I’m right here.”

“Come back to me, angel.”

She frowned. “I’m here.”

“I miss you.”

It didn’t make any sense. How could he miss her? He was holding her. A part of her. Only, everything began to blur, the memory slipping from her fingers and surrounding her in a cage of literal glass.

She frowned. Where am I?

Blood Seeker by Lexi C. Foss author
USA Today Bestselling Author Lexi C. Foss loves to play in dark worlds, especially the ones that bite. She lives in Atlanta, Georgia with her husband and their furry children. When not writing, she’s busy crossing items off her travel bucket list, or chasing eclipses around the globe. She’s quirky, consumes way too much coffee, and loves to swim.

For more information: https://www.lexicfoss.com/