by

Down on Me by J. Kenner

From best friends to blindfolds…January just got hotter.

What’s it About?

Tight muscles. Vibrant Ink.
Friends to lovers never felt so right…

Certified bachelor Reece Walker wants two things—to save the local bar he manages and to get Jenna Montgomery into his bed. He has a few ideas for the bar. But Jenna . . . well, he’s going to have to rely on cold showers, because she’s been his best friend for years, and that’s a line he just can’t cross.

Until one wild kiss on a dark night changes everything. Now Reece is certain Jenna’s meant to be his. And with long nights in bed, sensual caresses, and deep, lingering kisses, he sets out to thoroughly convince her that friends can be lovers, too.

First Impressions

When I set out to kick off the new year with something seasonally appropriate, I thought I’d nailed it: a sexy “Man of the Month” calendar series, starting with Mr. January. What could be more perfect for ringing in the new year than a little romance and a lot of abs? Well, turns out Down on Me takes place in April. In Texas. Not exactly the snowy winter vibes I was going for. But hey! There’s heat, there’s tension, and there’s a bar full of beautiful people trying to save their business. I suppose that’s its own kind of holiday spirit, and this first installment definitely feels like the foundation for something bigger. There’s a lot of setup: introducing the bar, the circle of friends, and the central conflict that will drive the Man of the Month series forward.

The concept of turning the bar’s financial struggles into a sexy calendar contest is genius marketing (and very on-brand for romance), though this book is more about laying the groundwork than actually seeing it play out. No photo shoots yet, no sultry Mr. January posters on the wall. Just a team of friends brainstorming how to make their business (and apparently their love lives) profitable again. As a series starter, it works. It hooks you on the idea of the world and the friend group. But if you’re diving in for calendar-worthy romance from page one, it might feel more like you’ve signed up for the planning committee than the party itself.

From Friendship to Full Throttle

So, let’s talk about how Reece and Jenna start seeing each other in a new light. Apparently, the switch flips during a flashback to eight months before the story begins, when Jenna gets completely hammered at her going-away party, throws up on herself, and Reece gallantly helps her clean up. Somewhere between the mess and the undressing, he realizes she’s beautiful and—poof—desire. Not exactly the most romantic spark. There’s a later mention that Reece might’ve been attracted to her since high school, but the real catalyst seems to be her drunken stumble. It’s not the worst setup I’ve seen, but considering how much emotional history these two share, I wish their “aha” moment had stemmed from something deeper, like realizing how much they’d miss each other after her move, or a genuine emotional vulnerability. Instead, we’re left with a faint whiff of vomit.

Once the switch flips, though, these two waste no time taking things from platonic to passionate. The transition is impressively seamless, no awkward “what are we doing?” conversations, no tentative first steps. One minute they’re talking business in the back office, the next she’s tied to the headboard with a silky blindfold while he’s whispering filthy promises. It’s hot, it’s explicit, and it’s definitely where the book shines. That said, sex is almost too much at the forefront of their relationship. We know they’ve been best friends forever, so their emotional connection is sort of a given, but I would’ve liked to see more of it in real time. Their conversations are often sandwiched between bar drama or bursts of erotic energy, so we never quite get a sense of who they are as a couple outside the sheets. Even when Jenna feels a cold coming on, Reece’s first instinct is less “chicken soup” and more “silk ties and vitamin C.” Creative, sure, but not quite the love language I was expecting.

The Commitment Ultimatum

The biggest emotional hurdle between Reece and Jenna boils down to one thing: compromise. Reece is firmly anti-marriage, scarred by a lifetime of watching his father cycle through relationships like bad takeout. Jenna, meanwhile, craves the stability and tradition that her own father never provided. When she issues an ultimatum, commit or call it quits, it feels a bit rushed considering how new their physical relationship still is. Thankfully, some wise motherly advice reminds Jenna that love isn’t about winning a debate; it’s about understanding where the other person’s fears come from. It’s a mature message wrapped in a steamy package, though the story could’ve spent a little more time showing that emotional bridge being built instead of just declaring it complete.

Series: Man of the Month, Book 1. This installment sets the stage for a full lineup of sexy calendar models and interconnected romances. It’s more of a teaser for what’s to come than a standalone knockout, but I’m intrigued enough to keep turning the pages…and months.

Would I befriend the heroine? Sure! Jenna’s loyal, hardworking, and not afraid to stand her ground. But I’d probably avoid her after she’s had more than two drinks, just in case.

Would I date the hero? Reece is charming, hot, and great with his hands (and ties), but his aversion to long-term commitment might have me running for the hills. Then again, he owns a bar, and I do enjoy a tasty cocktail.

Final Impressions: Down on Me might not have been the wintery Mr. January romance I expected, but it was still a steamy kickoff to a fun concept. The pacing sometimes lingers in setup mode, and the emotional connection takes a backseat to the physical, but the heat level more than delivers. Even if this one didn’t scratch my seasonal itch, it set the stage for what could be a really entertaining yearlong series. Let’s see how long I can keep up with the rest of the calendar boys, because if they’re all this steamy, I’m going to need a bigger fan.

Smut Level: Hot, descriptive, and unapologetically sultry. Expect blindfolds, dirty talk, some light spanking, and enough sexual chemistry to steam up every mirror in the bar.

Get it on Amazon: Click Here. FREE. Martini & Olive Publishing. 250 Pages.

by

A Dash of Christmas by Samantha Chase

There’s nothing quite like being forced into close quarters with the one person who used to make your eye twitch in school. But add in twinkle lights, cocoa, and a dash of mock-Christmas cheer, and suddenly that childhood nemesis looks a whole lot more like a tall, brooding gift you wouldn’t mind unwrapping.

What’s it About?

With a dash of Christmas magic…
Two people who have spent most of their lives being rivals…
Learn a little something about following their hearts…

Carter Montgomery broke the family mold when he went to culinary school. Now a successful restauranteur, he’s at a crossroads: should he continue on his successful path or look for a new challenge? What he needs is time alone to think things through. But his matchmaking family has other ideas…

Emery Monaghan’s no-good fiancé has embroiled her in scandal and she needs a way out. When mentor Eliza Montgomery offers her a refuge, she’s relieved―until she realizes that the deal means rubbing elbows with Eliza’s son Carter―Emery’s childhood nemesis.

First Impressions

I picked this one up looking for a cozy holiday read to kick off my December, and at first, A Dash of Christmas hit just the right notes: flirty banter, warm kitchens, and rivals-to-lovers tension that simmers hotter than a pot of mulled wine. The opening chapters absolutely sparkle as Carter and Emery trade barbs worthy of a Hallmark-meets–Food Network mash-up. Their push-and-pull chemistry is delicious, and the moment Carter decides the best way to silence Emery’s teasing is with a long, thorough kiss? Perfection. I could’ve devoured an entire book built around that level of tension. But after this dynamic duo transitions from bickering childhood foes to adults with undeniable chemistry, the pacing slows down significantly. I found myself wondering, “Wait, we’re only halfway through, what’s left to resolve?” Their witty banter fades into more serious conversations, and while it’s nice to see emotional growth, I missed the humor and spark that made the early chapters shine.

Family Matters

This was my first dip into the Montgomery Brothers series, and for the most part, I managed to stay afloat, albeit with a bit of confusion mixed in here and there. The family is warm, meddlesome, and very clearly adored by longtime readers. There’s a big reunion scene midway through that felt like a love letter to fans of the earlier books, with siblings and in-laws popping up left and right to announce pregnancies and talk business ventures. It’s cute, if a little chaotic. What really stood out, though, was Carter’s complicated relationship with his late father. You can feel how much the man’s expectations, and disapproval, still linger over his sons. I suspect this thread hit harder for readers who’ve been following the series from the start, since there are clear emotional echoes from earlier books. Still, even as a newcomer, it added some nice depth to Carter’s character and explained why he’s so hesitant to let people in.

Mock Christmas, Minimal Cheer

Now here’s where my holiday expectations took a hit. A Dash of Christmas doesn’t actually take place at Christmas. Instead, we get what’s essentially “Christmas cosplay”, a mock celebration being staged to promote a holiday charity cookbook. There are decorations, recipes, and even a family dinner scene, but it’s all happening in November. So yes, technically it’s festive…but it feels a bit like being promised a holiday movie marathon only to find out it’s interrupted by endless commercials. That said, there are still plenty of cozy moments: cooking sessions, family togetherness, and even a few sweet romantic scenes (one of which involves chocolate sauce and another with some kissy fun times underneath the Christmas tree). But the actual Christmas spirit, the magic, the warmth, the sparkle, never quite makes it past the staged photoshoot. I couldn’t help but wish the book had leaned harder into the holiday heart it teased from the start.

Where the story shines is in Emery’s personal arc. Her fiery phone confrontation with her socialite mother, who can’t seem to grasp why Emery dumped her scandalous fiancé, is one of the best scenes in the book. It’s the first time Emery truly stands on her own two feet, and it’s immensely satisfying. Unfortunately, the big argument between Carter and Emery toward the end feels tacked on. A forced, overblown misunderstanding that’s more frustrating than dramatic. It’s the kind of conflict that could’ve been solved with one honest conversation, and you can’t help but groan, “Oh, come on,” into your cocoa. Thankfully, the sweetness of the finale helps smooth it over, leaving you with the same warm satisfaction as a batch of Christmas cookies fresh out of the oven.

Series: The Montgomery Brothers, book 9. Probably a good idea to read some of the other books in this series before attempting this Christmas reunion highlighting prior characters.

Would I befriend the heroine? She does appreciate a Pop Tart for breakfast, which warms my heart, but she also judges Carter’s love of Gouda, which makes me question our potential for a future friendship.

Would I date the hero? If he cooks for me, hell yeah. And I love Gouda, so he can use it any recipe his little heart desires.

Final Impressions: A Dash of Christmas is a charming, low-heat rivals-to-lovers romance that delivers cozy comfort, but if you’re seeking a true Christmas read, you might find your holiday cheer running a little thin. The early banter between Emery and Carter is delightful, and the found-family warmth of the Montgomerys has undeniable appeal. Still, the story’s slower second half and the “mock” nature of the holiday setup made it feel more like a pre-holiday appetizer than the full Christmas feast I’d been craving. If you love foodie romances, family dynamics, and stories about personal growth with a sprinkle of seasonal flair, this one might hit the spot. Just don’t expect a sleigh ride or snowstorm to sweep you off your feet.

Smut Level: Pretty tame, though there is one memorable moment involving chocolate sauce that turns up the temperature just enough to fog a kitchen window. Nothing too explicit, think “fade to cocoa.”

Get it on Amazon: Click Here. $4.99 Kindle Price. Chasing Romance, Inc. 356 Pages.

by

How the Hitman Stole Christmas by Katie Reus

Nothing says “holiday romance” quite like a hitman with a moral code, a drone-stalking explosives expert, and a few strategically placed handcuffs. Forget Hallmark, this Christmas, we’re taking things to Miami.

What’s it About?

Tis the season for a grumpy-sunshine romance with a side of murder and mayhem!

She hates Christmas and everything that goes with it…

Explosives expert Elliana hates Christmas—and the only good thing about this holiday season is that her gorgeous neighbor seems allergic to shirts and clothes in general. She knows because she’s been watching him for months with her drone. She’s never stalked anyone before, but he not only doesn’t seem to mind, he puts on nightly strip shows just for her. When she finally works up the courage to talk to him, she stumbles right into a murder—that he’s committed.

But this holiday is one she’ll never forget…

According to Theo, the whole murder thing is no big deal—the dead guy needed killing. And while her hot neighbor wants her, protecting her is his main priority. So when she’s targeted, this cinnamon roll hitman kidnaps her for her own good. With a deadly threat hunting them and a hot hitman who keeps handcuffing her to him “for her own protection”, Elliana is starting to reconsider her grinchy stance on the holidays. And when everything finally comes to a head, the results are bound to be…explosive.

First Impressions

When it comes to holiday romances, some people want snowflakes and sugar cookies, but apparently there’s also nothing wrong with gunfire and handcuffs. How the Hitman Stole Christmas takes the tried-and-true “grumpy-sunshine” setup and cranks it up to absolute chaos in the best possible way. Instead of mistletoe meet-cutes, we’ve got drone surveillance and murder cleanups, and honestly? It works. The chemistry between Elliana and Theo snaps from the very first page, but I couldn’t help wishing we’d seen how their bizarre dynamic actually started. The story opens after they’ve already spent months secretly observing each other from across the street: her with her drone, him with a knowing smirk and zero shame. Delightfully entertaining, but I would’ve loved a flashback to that first voyeuristic exchange.

How did a curious neighborly glance turn into a nightly strip show? Give me that prologue, please. Still, the setup we do get is deliciously absurd. And while I’ve always had a soft spot for holiday romances that trap two people in a snowed-in cabin, this book makes a solid case for swapping in a yacht off the Miami coast instead. Warm ocean breeze, a smattering of danger, and two people literally handcuffed together for “safety reasons”? Consider me onboard, pun absolutely intended. Their forced proximity is sexy and chaotic in all the right ways, but I found myself craving even more of those moments. Between the teasing, the arguing, and the constant awareness that one wrong move could end with either a kiss or a gunshot, it’s the kind of fast-paced tension that makes you grin while turning the page.

The Ethics of a Hitman

Let’s address the very large, very armed elephant in the room: Theo is a hitman. A professional killer. A man whose moral compass might be a little cracked, but not completely broken. He’s not your average assassin-for-hire; this is a guy with standards. He only kills those who “truly deserve it.” Now, if you can suspend your disbelief and ignore the glaring lack of ethics, he’s actually…kind of wonderful? He’s protective, loyal, and absolutely smitten with the grumpy woman next door. His family of fellow hitmen adds a surprising layer of heart and humor to the story. I would have loved to see more of their interactions because the snippets we do get are delightfully absurd (and, honestly, pretty wholesome considering the number of bodies in this family’s wake). Once you accept the ludicrous premise, it’s impossible not to root for Theo and Elliana. Their romance is ridiculous, over-the-top, and yet somehow ridiculously sweet.

Murder, Mistletoe, and a Drone Fetish

You know that moment when you’re watching your half-naked neighbor through your drone camera and he starts performing an X-rated strip show just for you? No? Well, Elliana sure does. Their entire relationship exists at this perfect intersection of adorable and completely unhinged. One minute Theo is hanging oversized Christmas inflatables on his lawn in an effort to melt her frosty Grinch heart, and the next he’s murdering a man in his kitchen because “the guy needed killing.” It’s this whiplash, this gleeful contradiction between rom-com fluff and darkly steamy thriller, that somehow makes the novella work. You’ll go from giggling at their flirty banter to fanning yourself during some wildly explicit scenes (yes, there’s dirty talk, and yes, it’s filthy), then straight back to holiday hijinks involving kidnappings and C4 explosions.

It’s tonal chaos, but it’s fun chaos. The kind that works if you don’t take any of it too seriously. That said, both Theo and Elliana could use a good therapist and maybe a relationship communication seminar. Because when you kidnap your crush “for her own safety” after she witnesses your murder victim tied up in your kitchen? That’s not exactly best-practice dating etiquette. And maybe, just maybe, you should tell your girlfriend when you plan to execute the man who ordered a hit on her instead of pretending you’re taking him in for questioning. Still, when you realize their voyeuristic foreplay technically started a year before the novella begins, it weirdly softens how quickly things escalate once they’re together in person.

Series: Holiday with a Hitman, Book 1. A neighborhood full of morally flexible assassins? Sign me up for book two please.

Would I befriend the heroine? Probably not. I value my eyebrows too much to risk an accidental explosion.

Would I date the hero? He’s sexy, sweet, and loves Christmas lights. But…he’s also a hitman. So, I’m gonna go with “holiday fling only.”

Final Impressions: If you can handle a little murder with your mistletoe, How the Hitman Stole Christmas is an absolutely bonkers romp that somehow manages to be both sweet and sinful at the same time. It’s part romantic comedy, part crime spree, and 100% unapologetic fun. You just have to let go of logic, embrace the chaos, and accept that your new favorite holiday hero might also be a contract killer with a fondness for tinsel. The pacing is fast, the sex scenes are steamy, and the absurdity is dialed all the way up, but that’s exactly what makes it so enjoyable. And with Theo’s family of professional assassins clearly ripe for future installments, I’ll definitely be coming back for the next Hitman Holiday.

Smut Level: Steamier than the premise would ever suggest. Expect explicit dirty talk, heavy voyeurism, and enough heat to melt the snow off your roof. If there were any snow in Miami, that is.

Get it on Amazon: Click Here. Currently FREE on Kindle. KR Press, LLC. 166 Pages.

by

A Home for the Ranger by Audrey Wick

Who says happily ever afters only belong in big cities or grand ballrooms? Sometimes they’re tucked between the wildflowers and winding trails of a Texas state park, where a cowboy-hearted ranger and a small-town volunteer discover that family doesn’t always come the way you planned.

What’s it About?

Can two little girls in need convince him to stay?

For park ranger Shane Hutton, his job as head of Cottonwood Creek State Park has always just been a stepping stone toward his cowboy dreams. And when kind-hearted volunteer Allison Van Horn’s request for help with two foster children in need stirs up painful memories from his past, Shane’s first instinct to leave grows stronger. But the more time he spends with Allison and the adorable twins in her care, the more his heart begins to heal. When a head ranger position opens up in west Texas, he must the opportunity he’s always wanted…or the family he’s always needed.

First Impressions

If there’s one thing Audrey Wick always gets right, it’s Texas. From the rolling hills and endless skies to the creak of cicadas at dusk, the landscape in A Home for the Ranger practically breathes on the page. It’s not just a backdrop, but rather a living, shifting character all its own. Wick paints Cottonwood Creek State Park with such affection that it made me want to lace up my hiking boots and take a weekend getaway just to soak in that same wild beauty. There’s something meditative about the way she writes nature. It mirrors the emotional journey of the characters: quiet, healing, and grounded. That said, while the Texas scenery swept me away, the pacing of the story itself felt a bit more subdued. The plot unfolds with a kind of slow, Sunday-afternoon rhythm, which certainly fits the gentle small-town vibe but sometimes left me wishing for just a little more spark. Still, if you’re looking for a book that feels like a warm breeze through tall grass rather than a storm of high drama, this one fits that bill perfectly.

Love in the Slow Lane

What makes this romance interesting is that neither Shane nor Allison sets out looking for love, they quite literally stumble into it while trying to navigate their own separate paths. Shane’s time in Cottonwood Creek was always meant to be temporary; he’s the interim head ranger, and his heart has always been fixed on the wide-open ranges of west Texas. When his dream job finally comes calling, he thinks it’ll be an easy decision to leave. Then there’s Allison. Dependable, empathetic, and just a touch guarded. Her father’s early departure from her life left her with the firm belief that love isn’t built to last. Romance isn’t on her radar; she’s too busy giving her time and heart to others through her volunteer work. But one rugged ranger with a quiet smile and a soft spot for two foster girls throws all of her careful expectations into disarray. Their relationship isn’t one of fiery passion or sweeping declarations. Instead, it grows the way real love often does. Slowly, quietly, and almost by accident. The tenderness between them feels believable because it isn’t rushed. By the time they realize they’ve fallen for each other, the reader can’t help but root for these two cautious hearts to finally find their way home.

A Family by Heart

Beyond the romance, one of the more heartfelt threads in this story comes through Allison’s work with CASA and the two young sisters placed in her care. These scenes are full of vulnerability, sweetness, and second chances, and bring warmth and emotional texture to the book. The connection between Allison, Shane, and the girls blossoms into something resembling a found family, which fits beautifully with the novel’s themes of belonging and healing. However, the fairy-tale resolution of this plotline did give me a bit of pause. (Minor spoiler ahead!) Allison’s decision to adopt the girls is certainly heartwarming, but it also raises a few questions about realism, especially given her volunteer role in the foster system. While it provides the satisfying emotional payoff readers crave, it’s a bit of a stretch to imagine every case could end with such a tidy bow. Still, there’s no denying that the final chapters deliver a sweet, hopeful message about what “home” really means.

*A copy of this book was provided for an honest review*

Series: Stand-alone.

Would I befriend the heroine? Absolutely. She’s the kind of woman who reaches for ice cream when life gets messy, and that’s exactly my kind of friend.

Would I date the hero? Yes, please. He’s a ranger in uniform with a good heart and a protective streak, what’s not to love?

Final Impressions: A Home for the Ranger is a gentle, heartfelt read that celebrates second chances and quiet love against the beauty of the Texas landscape. While it lacked some of the emotional depth or intensity that might have pulled me in completely, there’s an undeniable comfort in its simplicity. I would have loved to see a deeper dive into the familial pasts of both Allison and Shane, the kind of exploration that could have added layers to their hesitations and choices, but even so their story has an easy warmth that lingers after the final page. This isn’t a book that races to its happily ever after; it ambles there, unhurried, much like a sunset walk through the parklands it so lovingly describes.

Smut Level: As refreshing as a Texas sky after a rainstorm. A kiss or two, plenty of lingering glances, but no hanky panky here.

Get it on Amazon: Click Here. $4.99 Kindle Price. Love Inspired. 208 Pages.

by

After the Night by Sandra Marie

Sometimes you just need a little office Halloween party chaos, a touch of mistaken identity, and a dash of nerdy charm. After the Night by Sandra Marie is the sweet, silly seasonal romance that might just do the trick.

What’s it About?

She never thought she’d be the prince in the Cinderella story.

Cassidy Joanes met the man of her dreams during the annual Halloween office party. Only problem? He was wearing a mask, and she hasn’t a clue who he is—only that he can rock a Dread Pirate Roberts costume.

With only a few men in the office, she makes it her mission to find the man who swept her off her feet, only to be met with date after date of disappointment. And with a growing attraction to her boss, she’s not sure she can find her prince before she falls for someone else.

First Impressions

I’ve been on an intense run lately of apocalyptic fantasy romances filled with end-of-the-world stakes, so I was very much in the mood for something lighthearted, and After the Night delivered exactly that. Is the premise a bit silly, straddling the edge of believability? Absolutely. But that’s half the fun, especially when the air outside turns crisp and you’re curling up with hot chocolate in hand. The story immediately sets the tone for a cozy, slightly ridiculous office romance that doesn’t take itself too seriously, and that’s precisely what makes it so enjoyable. Sandra Marie leans into the whimsy of her setup rather than trying to make it something it’s not, giving us a story that’s part workplace rom-com, part costume party caper. You can almost smell the candy corn and pumpkin spice wafting through the pages.

What truly carries this novel are the characters themselves. Cassidy and Jon are both so endearingly awkward that you can’t help but root for them. Their utter nerdiness, from her obsession with Marvel to his devotion to Disney, makes them one of those couples you just know would have themed wedding vows and a shared Funko Pop collection. There’s a real warmth and sincerity between them that grounds the absurdity of the setup, transforming what could have been a one-note Halloween fling into something surprisingly heartfelt. Even as the plot occasionally veers into “only-in-a-rom-com” territory, their connection remains the glue holding it all together. You believe in their chemistry not because of grand gestures or melodrama, but because they just get each other in the way only two lovable weirdos can. And speaking of lovable weirdos, let’s talk about the night that started it all…

When Cinderella Meets The Princess Bride

Cassidy shows up to the office Halloween party dressed as Princess Buttercup, and is surprised to see another partygoer has arrived as the Dread Pirate Roberts, complete with mask. Who could this mystery man possibly be? Cue four hours of flirtatious banter, stolen kisses, and one of the most delightfully awkward make-out interruptions imaginable (involving a contact lens disaster and a pair of fake boobs), and Cassidy runs off never discovering the true identity of her beloved pirate. Now, could she have solved the mystery of his identity at any point in the evening with a simple “So… who are you again?” Sure. And yes, it’s a stretch to believe she wouldn’t recognize him considering half his face was visible and his voice unchanged.

But Sandra Marie explains away these little plot holes fairly well. Jon’s new to the office, he wasn’t even supposed to attend the party, and Cassidy spends the night half-blind due to lost contacts and ultimately mortified at her handsy pirate discovering the sand-bag boobs needed to fill out her costume. Their post-party dynamic is full of comic misunderstanding, with Cassidy embarking on her own Cinderella-style search for her masked man by dating her way through the office. This portion of the novel admittedly loses some steam since our couple spends more time apart than together, but it still delivers plenty of laughs and awkward charm along the way.

The Number Confusion

Just when you think this rom-com couldn’t get any quirkier, we’re thrown into a subplot involving missing office funds and a case of mistaken embezzlement. While the mystery adds intrigue, it doesn’t entirely mesh with the otherwise breezy tone of the book. The stakes feel higher than the story’s cozy charm seems built to support, and it diverts focus from the Cinderella storyline that hooked us in the first place. That said, the ensuing medical conference is where the magic truly happens. Forced proximity allows Cassidy and Jon’s chemistry to thrive as their nerdy banter and gentle teasing reveals just how compatible they are, even when costumes are involved. It proves their attraction wasn’t just a masked moment of lust, but something real and enduring. Honestly, if the financial subplot had been trimmed down, this could have been a near-perfect novella of nerdy Halloween romance.

Series: Romance for all Seasons, book 1. Who doesn’t love a series that promises to carry you through the calendar? This first installment is pure Halloween, from the office party to a haunted maze and even some trick-or-treating. I might just have to see what Thanksgiving brings next in this holiday-themed collection.

Would I befriend the heroine? I’m not quite Marvel-obsessed enough to match Cassidy’s enthusiasm, but if she ever needs someone to share a cocktail and rant about awkward dating stories, I’m in.

Would I date the hero? I couldn’t help but picture Noah Wyle from his ER heyday, mixd with his current the Pitt sexual magnetism, sooo yes please! Though I’ll admit, the idea of spotting Flounder from The Little Mermaid tattooed on his shoulder mid-seduction might be…distracting.

Final Impressions: After the Night is a quirky mix of office romance, costume party hijinks, and accidental crime drama that somehow holds together through sheer charm and nerdy sincerity. While some subplots feel a bit misplaced, Cassidy and Jon’s awkward sweetness makes this a cozy fall read worth picking up when you need something light and endearing to break up the heavy stuff.

Smut Level: These two have a few steamy make-out sessions, particularly in the backseat of Jon’s car at the conclusion of their Halloween party evening together, but we’re never privy to the ultimate climactic conclusion of things.

Get it on Amazon: Click Here. $4.99 Kindle Price. 228 Pages.

by

The Things Gods Break by Abigail Owen

Just when you think your worst day involves running late to work or missing your morning coffee, imagine being the literal key to unlocking the Titans and possibly ending the world. The Things Gods Break dives straight back into Abigail Owen’s wildly inventive Crucible universe where gods play games, mortals fight to survive, and Hades would gladly burn Olympus to the ground for love.

What’s it About?

The gods want her dead…Hades will bury them. You’d think I’d have learned by now: Don’t mouth off to deities. Don’t fall for the King of the Underworld. And definitely don’t get dragged into a divine death match where I’m the cursed mortal prize. But here I am—trapped in Tartarus, humanity’s worst pit stop, squaring off against monsters who make the gods look merciful. Titans, twisted by centuries of rage and ruin, are sealed behind seven ancient locks. And guess what? I’m the key. To escape, I’ll have to survive every horrifying trial they throw at me. To win, I might have to become something the gods never saw coming. Oh, and Hades? He’s about to break every rule the gods ever wrote. Because to save me…the god of death will burn the world. But if I break free? So do the Titans. And the world won’t just suffer—it’ll beg for the end.

First Impressions

I was beyond eager to get my hands on this sequel following the jaw-dropping ending from The Games Gods Play. Lyra’s last act in book one involved winning the Crucible games, quickly followed by getting yanked into Tartarus while trying to free Persephone. It was a conclusion that left Hades shattered and readers gasping. The reveal that the Titans were trapped alongside her? Chef’s kiss. It was one of those “I need the next book immediately” finales. After months of anticipation, it’s safe to say my expectations were sky high…probably too high. The Things Gods Break opens with tension and atmosphere to spare: a claustrophobic prison of gods and monsters, a heroine forced to evolve, and the ever-present ache of a love divided by impossible barriers. While some sections hit mythological perfection, others had me scratching my head in confusion, or feeling déjà vu from the first book.

Let’s rip the ambrosia bandage right off: Hades and Lyra spend most of this book apart. Devastating. Their chemistry was the brightest flame in the first novel, so realizing they’d be separated for the bulk of this one was a punch straight to the feels. Sure, we get a few tantalizing glimpses in the form of time-twisty cameos and memories that remind us just how intoxicating their connection is, but it’s not quite enough to sate the hunger. Thankfully, Owen throws us a bone (or rather, a pomegranate seed) with a few brief chapters from Hades’s perspective. These moments remind us just how deeply this god of death feels for his newly immortal queen. His desperation and devotion burn hotter than the Styx, but I still found myself wishing for more page time between them. Their absence is keenly felt, and it makes the rare moments of reunion all the more powerful. Still, a little more Hades never hurt anybody.

Deja Vu in the Depths

In Hades’ absence, we’re introduced to a whole new lineup of ancient troublemakers: the Titans. Those ancient, world-breaking figures who were once locked away by their godly offspring for crimes best left buried. On paper, it’s an irresistible premise: unleash the mythic monsters and watch chaos unfold. In practice, though, many of the Titans never quite come to life. It felt similar to the introduction in quick succession of so many competitors ahead of the Crucible, but whereas by the end of the previous book we seemingly understood the unique personalities and motivations of each character, at the conclusion of this sequel I felt as though a good number of Titans remained mythological strangers. Upon entering Tartarus we also discover that the only way out is for Lyra to successfully pass through a series of “locks”. Reminiscent of the different levels of the Crucible games from book one, each Lock is themed around a different god or goddess, requiring Lyra to face a unique test of strength, wit, or survival.

While it’s a clever mirror to the first novel, the stakes feel oddly muted this time around. Because Lyra and her companion Boone are the only ones able to participate, the high-tension, life-or-death urgency that defined the Crucible is lost. To make matters more confusing, the rules surrounding the Locks are frustratingly murky. Prior to the start of each Lock, Lyra is stripped of her immortality, and we’re told that she can die in the process, yet somehow…reset to try again. But how? Why? What are the limits? Without clarity, the sense of peril evaporates. And since the action sequences of several Locks are skipped over entirely, we’re robbed of the visceral, edge-of-your-seat momentum that the first book executed so well. In short, while the concept of the Locks could have offered fascinating psychological and physical challenges, the repetitive format and fuzzy mechanics make this round of trials feel more like a replay than an evolution.

Tangled in Time

Now we have to get to what was undoubtedly the biggest hindrance of the book: the time travel element. Not gonna lie, I’m usually not a fan of time travel, whether it’s in books, movies, or TV shows. My brain just doesn’t like the idea of events folding back in on themselves like a cosmic pretzel. The problem here was that time travel didn’t just appear as a feature of the book, it completely takes over. The “Locks” and the Titans fade into the background for huge stretches of the story as Lyra keeps getting yanked through cracks in time, and before long, it’s almost impossible to tell what matters in the “now” versus what’s happening in some warped pocket of the past. When these time cracks first appear, they seem like an intriguing quirk of Tartarus, a way to revisit old memories or shed light on unanswered questions from the first book. And in some cases, it works beautifully. We finally learn the truth about Lyra’s curse to be unlovable, and some of Hades’ hot-and-cold behavior from book one finally makes emotional sense.

But for every satisfying reveal, there are three more moments that leave you scratching your head. When can events actually be changed? When are they fixed? Why does time “reset” after some deaths but not others? Even the characters seem uncertain of the rules half the time, which doesn’t inspire much reader confidence. By the halfway mark, I found myself wishing the book would either commit fully to clarifying these mechanics or scale them back significantly. Instead, we spend so much time jumping through timelines that the actual stakes of the present-day plot with the desperate attempt to escape Tartarus get lost in the shuffle. It’s hard to feel tension about Lyra’s survival when death might not even “stick” depending on what the time stream decides to do next. The result is a story that feels suspended in place rather than progressing forward, like being stuck in a mythological Groundhog Day. The lack of clarity creates a haze that dulls the emotional and narrative impact of what should have been some of the book’s most intense moments. For a story about breaking the rules of gods, I just wish the rules of time had made a little more sense.

Divine Design: Worldbuilding, Emotion, and Heartbreak

If there’s one thing Abigail Owen never fumbles, it’s world-building. Once again, she crafts a mythological landscape so rich and cinematic that it practically unspools across your imagination. The cavernous, twisting tunnels of Tartarus, the glinting peaks of Olympus, the vast expanse of the Underworld,  each setting feels tangible, drenched in atmosphere, and full of layered lore. It’s an absolute triumph of setting and tone, particularly for readers who geek out over mythological deep cuts (guilty as charged). The emotional world of this novel is also as powerful as ever. Owen excels at capturing the fragility of connection amidst chaos.

The way enemies become allies, and how grief can carve new bonds out of loss. Just as in the first novel, we once again see Lyra form uneasy alliances with those she once viewed as foes. This time, the Titans themselves. It’s a potent continuation of the series’ central theme: that survival often requires compassion, even among supposed enemies. Her portrayal of grief is hauntingly authentic, especially in that surreal, hollow moment when your mind refuses to believe someone is gone. Hades’s haunting desperation whenever fate rips Lyra from his grasp is also a harsh punch to the gut. She manages to balance mythic stakes with deeply human pain, and that’s no small feat. By the end, there’s also a sense of mystery brewing in the form of a manipulative puppet master pulling strings behind the scenes. Whoever’s orchestrating this chaos? I can’t wait to see the reveal.

*A copy of this book was provided for an honest review*

Series: The Crucible, book 2. I’ll admit, my expectations were probably too high after that first explosive finale, but even so, I’m already counting down to the next. My guess? Another round of godly competitions, even more chaos, and hopefully much more Hades front and center.

Would I befriend the heroine? Sure, but only over a strong glass of wine. Time portals make me queasy.

Would I date the hero? He’s the god of death with a body sculpted by sin and sorrow. So yes. Absolutely. Maybe twice.

Final Impressions: The final quarter of The Things Gods Break is where everything truly shines. The pace quickens, the tension mounts, and I found myself holding my breath through every page. While it doesn’t quite replicate the earth-shattering ending of book one, it still closes on a killer cliffhanger that leaves you desperate for more. The emotional stakes soar, the world expands, and Lyra proves herself as a heroine worth rooting for. Was it perfect? Not quite. I may have gone into this one with expectations as high as Mount Olympus, but even with a few stumbles, I’m still ready to follow Lyra and Hades through whatever hells come next.

Smut Level: The separation between Lyra and Hades means we spend most of this book simmering in frustration and longing. But when they do reunite? Sparks fly like lightning over Olympus. Steamy, passionate, and all too brief, I would’ve happily taken three more chapters of that divine reunion.

Get it on Amazon: Click Here. $14.99 Kindle Price. Entangled: Red Tower Books. 673 Pages.

by

Every Last Breath by Jennifer L. Armentrout

You know how stressful high school can be with college applications, final exams, trying not to suck anyone’s soul out through your mouth. Throw in a brewing apocalypse, a mad demon on the loose, and a love triangle involving a Warden and the Crown Prince of Hell, and suddenly prom night seems like the least of your worries.

What’s it About?

Every choice has consequences—but Layla Shaw faces tougher choices than most. Light or darkness. Wickedly sexy demon prince Roth, or Zayne, the gorgeous, protective Warden she never thought could be hers. Hardest of all, Layla has to decide which side of herself to trust. Layla has a new problem, too. A Lilin—the deadliest of demons—has been unleashed, wreaking havoc on those around her…including her best friend. To keep Sam from a fate much, much worse than death, Layla must strike a deal with the enemy while saving her city—and her race—from destruction. Torn between two worlds and two different loves, Layla has no certainties, least of all survival, especially when an old bargain comes back to haunt them all. But sometimes, when secrets are everywhere and the truth seems unknowable, you have to listen to your heart, pick a side—and then fight like hell…

First Impressions

I can’t believe this series has officially come to a close. I tore through this trilogy like a freight train, and this finale was the perfect sendoff. Funnily enough, I always think the mark of a great series is when the final book takes me longer to finish. Not because it drags, but because you just don’t want it to end. That was exactly the case here. Every chapter ends on a cliffhanger that makes you mutter, “Just one more,” until suddenly it’s 2:00 a.m. and you’re regretting your life choices. With Every Last Breath, that pull never fades, but there’s also this strange bittersweet comfort in savoring the ending. I wanted to linger with these characters, even knowing the final page meant goodbye. And when everything does finally come together? It’s explosive, quite literally and emotionally. Armentrout closes the series with heart, humor, and enough heavenly fire to light up the night sky.

Hell Yeah, Finally!

One of the best “finally!” moments in this book is Layla actually making a choice between her two brooding heroes. Whether you’ve been waving the Team Zayne flag or swooning over the demon prince Roth, we can all agree…it was time. What’s great is that Armentrout doesn’t drag it out; Layla makes her decision early in the book, and we get to fully enjoy the sparks that follow. And oh, those sparks. The chemistry between Layla and her chosen lover practically sizzles off the page, toeing that perfect line between steamy and sweet. After all the pining, the push-pull tension, and those almost-kisses from the first two books, the payoff here feels incredibly satisfying.

There’s passion, there’s tenderness, and yes, there’s finally a certain V-card that gets torched in glorious, heavenly fashion. This book is packed with “thank goodness that finally happened” moments. Layla taking a break from high school to focus on saving humanity? About time. Her long-awaited confrontation with her mother down in Hell? Deliciously dramatic. And yes, we even get an elevator ride straight into the underworld itself, because of course Hell has an elevator. Then there’s the action. Armentrout finally gives us the full-on, no-holds-barred battles we’ve been waiting for since book one.

All Bets are Off

The most important thing to remember going into this book? It’s the end. And that means no one, no one, is safe. Armentrout doesn’t hold back with this finale, and the result is a whirlwind of loss, chaos, and courage that feels appropriately apocalyptic. The battles here are epic and cinematic, the stakes higher than ever, and the emotional payoff hits hard. But what really stands out is how much Layla has grown. After two books of being tugged in every direction: between good and evil, Warden and demon, strength and vulnerability, she finally steps into her own power. She’s not the girl waiting for rescue anymore; she’s the one unfurling her wings (literally) and deciding which battles to fight on her own terms.

There’s something incredibly satisfying about watching a heroine come full circle like this. While Roth and Zayne might still try to shield her from the dangers of both heaven and hell, Layla makes it clear she doesn’t need to be protected. She chooses to fight beside them, not behind them. That shift in seeing her claim her identity and take charge of her destiny makes this finale feel all the more rewarding. Yes, there’s death. Yes, there are jaw-dropping twists. But there’s also triumph and catharsis, the kind of emotional balance that reminds you why you fell for the series in the first place. When angels and demons collide, not everyone gets a happy ending, but the one we get feels just right.

A Dash of World-Building

While fantasy isn’t always my go-to genre, one thing I’ll always admire is an author who can create a world that feels entirely her own. Armentrout pulls that off effortlessly throughout this trilogy. Sure, we’ve seen angels and demons before, but her lore with the rules of Heaven, Hell, and everything in between feels refreshingly original. That said, I do wish there had been a little “cheat sheet” at the start of the book. A map of the realms, a glossary of the creatures, a flowchart of who’s immortal and who’s just cranky, it would’ve been a huge help. The details are there if you slow down to absorb them, but the writing is so addictive that it’s hard not to speed ahead to the next heart-pounding moment. Still, that’s a testament to Armentrout’s storytelling more than anything else. You’ll happily trade a little confusion for this much fun.

Series: The Dark Elements, book 3. Sad to see this series end, but what a ride. Also, I gotta say that three was the perfect number of books for this series. Could I have seen things continue with future fiery battles on the horizon? Sure, but it was perfect to end this as a trilogy.

Would I befriend the heroine? Oh yeah, this girl is in desperate need of some low maintenance human friends. The fact she has a sweet tooth means we’d be besties. Now sure, her sweet tooth is a diversion tactic so that she doesn’t suck the souls out of everyone around her and mine is…just an addiction to sugar, but still.

Would I date the hero? Take your pick ladies and gentlemen. From the witty banter of our Crown Prince to the sentimental gargoyle Warden, I’d take either. I’d take both. Hell, even at the same time.

Final Impression: The Dark Elements trilogy ends with a bang and a few tears. It’s everything you could want in a YA fantasy finale: romance, redemption, and just enough snark to balance out the apocalypse. While I probably would have loved this series as a high schooler (let’s be honest, it’s way more engaging than whatever was on my English reading list), I still devoured it as an adult. There’s something timeless about watching a heroine come into her own power and choose both love and self-worth along the way. Armentrout nails that balance between swoon-worthy and soul-stirring, leaving readers completely satisfied.

Smut Level: Talk about long-awaited moments. Layla finally loses her V-card, and Armentrout delivers it with a perfect balance of heat and heart. There’s chemistry and tension, but nothing too explicit. Just the right amount of steam for a teen romance.

Get it on Amazon: Click Here. $12.99 Kindle Price. Canary Street Press. 359 Pages.

by

August by Amarie Avant 

Death, danger, and desire. August blends them together with the heat of a Caribbean sun. Our brooding hitman hero isn’t just fighting enemies, he’s fighting temptation in the form of a woman who could just as easily kill him as kiss him.

What’s it About?

August Reiss

Seven years ago, the love of my life and my parents died in a robbery that went wrong. Do you know what that can do to a professionally trained hitman? Now I work for a government organization. My next assignment is to infiltrate the Marchand’s crew. The information given is vague. But what rouses my interest is that the family “business” of crooks I’m to investigate includes a Bajan little sister whose lips are the definition of sex and trouble. And yet Natalia’s soft curves are off limits—and not because her brothers will bash my head in. No. It’s because she is capable of killing me herself.

Natalia Marchand

Anything a man can do, I can do it better. I’ve lived by that credo my entire life, and with my dangerous ‘job’ it’s always been true. I’m a rich man’s kryptonite. I can pretend to desire you and then execute a plan to take everything you own. My brothers and I live dangerous lives. Then in walks muscles, murky green eyes, and a cocky smile. August needs a place to stay, and he’s saved my kid brother’s life. Now, he’s a god to all my brothers—but can he really be trusted? My guts say no. I’ll put a bullet to his head if my intuition is right.

First Impressions

We actually meet August in the middle of heartbreak and bloodshed, his parents and fiancée gunned down in front of him during a robbery gone wrong. The shocking part is that this isn’t his turning point into a life of violence; he was already a professionally trained hitman for hire long before tragedy struck. Which, if you think about it, makes the lack of explanation for how he fell into that line of work even stranger, considering he came from a seemingly normal upbringing with supportive parents and a loving fiancée. After their deaths, instead of hiding from the world, he joins a shadowy government security agency to keep up his bloody trade. It’s an intense opener, but because we never really see how or why August chose this profession in the first place, it leaves his whole character on shaky ground.

Years later, August is assigned to infiltrate the elusive Marchand family, a crew so skilled at avoiding detection that the only evidence of their existence is a blurry photo of Natalia, the alluring little sister. He’s told little about the assignment, beyond the vague promise that the tattooed man responsible for his family’s murders may somehow be connected. It’s a hook that feels loaded with potential revenge-fueled tension. But the execution falters when we discover Natalia and her brothers aren’t masterminds of high-stakes espionage or international jewel heists. Instead, they’re pulling off small-time robberies at pawn shops and bank teller counters to pay off a blackmailer back in Barbados. For a family built up as legendary ghosts of the underworld, the low-stakes jobs feel wildly underwhelming, and the mismatched scale of the mission makes August’s dangerous infiltration, and the shadow of his personal vendetta, ring oddly hollow.

The Case of the Missing Villains

For a story that sets itself up with such a brutal act of violence at the start, you’d expect the ultimate villain to play a more prominent role. We’re first introduced to the mysterious tattooed man who murdered August’s parents and fiancée in cold blood. Naturally, you’d assume the entire novel would be a revenge arc leading to August finally getting justice. Instead, the man essentially vanishes from the narrative completely, only to later be dealt with entirely off the page, and without August even involved. After such a dramatic setup, this felt like a missed opportunity for closure.

Which brings us to Oakley, the other “big bad wolf” of the novel. Early on we learn he once fixated on Natalia when she was underage, attempting to assault her and ultimately driving her to flee Barbados with her brothers. Since then, he’s held the family under his thumb, threatening their loved ones back home if they don’t keep up with his payment demands. His obsession with Natalia is disturbing and deeply personal, turning his blackmail into something more than just financial leverage. It’s an exercise in control and cruelty, a way to keep her tethered to him even from afar.

And yet, despite being the supposed shadow looming over everyone’s lives, Oakley exists almost entirely off the page for the majority of the novel. We hear about him constantly, his influence dictating why the Marchand siblings commit robbery after robbery, but he never feels like a tangible threat until the very end. It isn’t until the last few chapters that he finally makes an in-person appearance, knife to Natalia’s throat, ready to claim what he’s long thought was his. By then, the tension feels rushed and underdeveloped. For a villain who shaped the entire trajectory of Natalia’s life, his absence throughout most of the narrative makes the final showdown feel more like an afterthought than the climax of a carefully built suspense arc.

Love in the Time of Whiplash

Tonally, this book swings hard. We go from a triple homicide in the opening scene, to siblings trading sarcastic barbs, to August casually slitting the throats of some road-rage hillbillies. The violence is intense, yet infrequent. Instead of escalating the suspense, it often feels out of place. August himself kills with cold precision (even an innocent limo driver isn’t safe), yet we’re meant to root for him as the brooding hero. Personally, I found it hard to cheer for a man who equates love with alpha-level obsession. Natalia, meanwhile, is presented as a femme fatale who can outwit anyone. And sometimes she does. But too often she slides into damsel-in-distress territory, leaning on August (or even a sleazy playboy “benefactor”) to bail her out. It would have been far more satisfying to see her and August working together as equal partners, especially given her badass introduction.

Audiobook Hiccups

I listened to August in audiobook format, and while it certainly added some flair, the narration wasn’t without its hiccups. The chapters alternate between August and Natalia’s POVs, and while August’s sections came across smooth enough—gruff, masculine, and carrying that dangerous edge—you could tell the narrator was working a bit harder when it came to Natalia. He adopted a lighter, more feminine tone that often felt unnecessary, especially since we’re told at the start of each chapter whose head we’re in. On top of that, whenever Natalia or her brothers actually had dialogue, we were treated to a Barbados accent. Once the narrator settled into the rhythm it worked, but in the early chapters the accent sometimes veered closer to Scottish or Jamaican, which definitely pulled me out of the moment. Layer in action sequences delivered in one accent, dialogue in another, and you end up with a listening experience that occasionally felt more confusing than captivating. Honestly, this is one of those audiobooks that would have greatly benefitted from having two narrators (one male, one female) to fully capture the dual POVs and bring more balance to the story.

Series: Stand-alone

Would I befriend the heroine? I don’t think I’m badass enough to be brought into her inner circle.

Would I date the hero? No thanks, this guy has issues from morning to night.

Final Impressions: August is a wild ride that starts with promise. A hitman bent on revenge, a family of elusive thieves, and a heroine who can hold her own. But muddled stakes, villains who appear too late (or not at all), and tonal whiplash keep it from delivering the knockout punch. There are flashes of chemistry between August and Natalia, but I was left wanting a tighter story where danger and romance truly comingle.

Smut Level: This one definitely turns up the heat, with detailed and graphic scenes that leave little to the imagination. The chemistry between August and Natalia is written to be all-consuming, possessive, and raw. The only problem? It was sometimes hard to root for the couple when the obsession and violence surrounding them made the passion feel less swoon-worthy and more unsettling.

Get it on Amazon: Click Here. $4.99 Kindle Price. 298 Pages.

by

Fate’s Betrayal by Beth Ann Stifflemire

Some romances start with a meet-cute. Others…start with a meet-rude. Brooke and Riley’s story definitely falls into the latter camp, and whether or not you can forgive Riley’s disastrous first impression might make or break your reading experience.

What’s it About?

Desire and despise. Two insanely contradicting emotions that the dark haired, well-built, irrefutably handsome musician Riley evokes in simple but attractive, fashion savvy, Austinite Brooke. Initially unequivocally turned-off by the brash but striking Riley she develops a fascination for his seductive charms as Riley reels Brooke into a world of ravenous love she never knew existed.

What they create together is oh-so-much more than beautiful music. It’s a roller coaster ride of awe-inspiring and heartbreaking emotion, passion, hidden secrets and an ending that will leave you utterly breathless. The way they become eternally bound sets the heart afire when fate unleashes the ultimate betrayal.

First Impressions

Riley doesn’t exactly sweep Brooke (or me) off her feet in their first encounter. Their meet-up in a coffee shop starts with a literal collision, but instead of a sheepish apology, Riley unleashes a few choice words about Brooke’s clumsiness. Not exactly swoon-worthy behavior. To his credit, he eventually apologizes and spends much of the rest of the book trying to prove he’s a thoughtful, caring man who loves nothing more than surprising Brooke with sweet, romantic gestures. Still, that initial sour note lingers. For much of their relationship, I couldn’t help but wonder: which Riley is the real one? The snippy stranger who can lash out without warning, or the doting boyfriend who makes you feel like the center of the universe? It added a layer of tension to their romance that made me keep him at arm’s length as a reader, even as Brooke fell deeper in love with him.

The Ending That Defines It All

Normally, I’d never start a review talking about the ending…but here it’s impossible not to. The title doesn’t lie: fate does indeed betray, and as the story progressed I could see from a mile away where we’d ultimately end up. This is not a happily-ever-after romance. Brooke’s heart condition plays a central role in the story, and by the time you reach the final chapters, you’ll realize warm fuzzies are not what’s waiting for you on the last page. There’s an attempt at silver lining in the epilogue, with a few details meant to soften the blow, but ultimately this is a tragic ending that will either leave you gutted or frustrated. Some readers may admire the unconventionality of a romance that refuses to follow genre rules, while others will feel blindsided. Personally? I closed the book with a heavy sigh and a “well…that happened.”

The Writing & the Wobble

Let’s address the writing itself: serviceable, but not stellar. Some of the dialogue felt stiff, like the characters were reciting lines instead of actually speaking, and it made certain conversations feel more robotic than romantic. Then there were the dream sequences with Brooke’s deceased father, who appears to her whenever she experiences one of her heart episodes. Some of the visions were moving and effective, but as these scenes kept cropping up, complete with actual conversations and foreshadowing, they lost some of their power. If the author had saved this phenomenon for just one fatherly appearance at the climax, it would have delivered a stronger emotional gut punch.

Series: Stand-alone.

Would I befriend the heroine? Meh, I don’t really feel strongly one way or another.

Would I date the hero? I’d be too concerned about which side I’d see, the doting boyfriend who loves nothing more than planning a romantic surprise on a date, or the guy who can snap at random strangers for bumping into him.

Final Impression: Fate’s Betrayal is a tricky one. On the one hand, Riley and Brooke share some genuinely tender moments, and there’s no denying the passion between them. On the other, the stiff dialogue, confusing dream sequences, and emotional sucker-punch of an ending make it hard to categorize this as a satisfying romance. If you’re looking for an unconventional love story that breaks away from the mold of happily-ever-after, you might appreciate the risks this book takes. But if you’re craving a bit of escapism with a guaranteed happy ending, you’ll want to steer your e-reader clear of this one.

Smut Level: There are definitely some steamy interludes, with enough detail to get the blood pumping, but nothing too graphic. Think more “lingering heat” than “explicit play-by-play.”

Get it on Amazon: Click Here. $15.00 Paperback. Waldorf Publishing. 304 Pages.

by

Nowhere But Here by Katie McGarry

What happens when your safe suburban bubble pops and suddenly you’re spending a summer surrounded by leather jackets, rumbling motorcycles, and a boy with blue eyes that you can get lost in? Welcome to Emily’s unexpected detour into the world of the Reign of Terror.

What’s it About?

Seventeen-year-old Emily likes her life the way it is: doting parents, good friends, good school in a safe neighborhood. Sure, she’s curious about her biological father—the one who chose life in a motorcycle club, the Reign of Terror, over being a parent—but that doesn’t mean she wants to be a part of his world. But when a reluctant visit turns to an extended summer vacation among relatives she never knew she had, one thing becomes clear: nothing is what it seems. Not the club, not her secret-keeping father and not Oz, a guy with suck-me-in blue eyes who can help her understand them both.

Oz wants one thing: to join the Reign of Terror. They’re the good guys. They protect people. They’re…family. And while Emily—the gorgeous and sheltered daughter of the club’s most respected member—is in town, he’s gonna prove it to her. So when her father asks him to keep her safe from a rival club with a score to settle, Oz knows it’s his shot at his dream. What he doesn’t count on is that Emily just might turn that dream upside down.

No one wants them to be together. But sometimes the right person is the one you least expect, and the road you fear the most is the one that leads you home.

First Impressions

Nowhere But Here wasted no time in pulling me straight into its world. I was seriously drawn into these characters, to the point where I devoured most of the book in just two poolside reading sessions plus one late-night binge. With chapters alternating between Emily and Oz’s perspectives, you can’t help but feel invested in how their stories will turn out. We see their relationship evolve from bitter rivals who want nothing to do with each other to reluctant allies, and eventually to something undeniably more. There’s an immediate attraction simmering beneath the surface, one neither is willing to acknowledge, but as Oz is tasked with keeping Emily safe from a rival motorcycle club, the summer forces them together in ways that make it impossible to deny what’s building between them. Their banter, their push-and-pull dynamic, and their shared moments of vulnerability made this a romance I wanted to root for. Emily and Oz’s growing connection keeps the pages turning, but there’s also that constant undercurrent of dread in the looming threat of a rival motorcycle club. Even when the book slowed in pacing, I always wanted to pick it back up just to spend more time with these two.

The Long Road to Love (and Plot)

At nearly 500 pages, this is no quick ride down the highway. If anything it’s more of a scenic route with plenty of detours. On the plus side, the length allows for believable character development. Emily doesn’t instantly trust her new family, and her growing connection with Oz feels gradual rather than forced. Both characters experience genuine growth, with Emily learning to be more open-minded, while Oz starts to realize that maybe his lifelong dream of joining the club isn’t the only path to fulfillment. That said, there’s no denying this book drags at times. Some scenes stretch on forever while others are skipped over with abrupt “days later” or “weeks later” transitions that leave you feeling whiplashed. I loved spending time with Emily and Oz, but with such uneven pacing I often found myself thinking, Okay, can we just get there already?

Family Secrets and Motorcycle Drama

The entire premise of the novel revolves around Emily’s visit to her biological father, Eli, and the motorcycle family she’s been kept apart from. She quickly realizes her mother’s version of events wasn’t the whole truth, and while this slow uncovering of family history adds drama, it also grows frustrating when everyone insists on staying tight-lipped. That being said, Katie McGarry does excel at portraying Emily’s conflicting emotions as she struggles between loyalty to her adoptive dad (who raised her) and the pull of this biological family who want her to belong. It’s an honest, heartfelt exploration of identity, and even though the big “secret” was fairly easy to guess, the emotional fallout still packed a punch. Watching Emily and Eli inch toward some kind of relationship was a surprisingly tender thread woven throughout all the rival gang suspense and teen angst. Unfortunately, the rival gang subplot takes so long to surface that by the time it does, the tension feels both overdue and underwhelming. Their late arrival doesn’t pack the punch it should, making that thread feel more like a distraction than a payoff.

Series: Thunder Road, book 1. Definitely intrigued enough to check out the next in the series. Some side characters are begging for their own spotlight.

Would I befriend the heroine? She’s sweet but skittish, often letting others dictate her actions. I’d probably want to shake her into making a few more decisions for herself.

Would I date the hero? Oz is protective, loyal, and dedicated, though sometimes too dedicated to the club. He does have a heart of gold that is hard to resist though.

Final Impressions: Nowhere But Here is a book that thrives on its characters. Emily and Oz are layered, flawed, and captivating enough to keep the pages turning, even when the plot meanders. Their romance grows slowly, but once it takes off, their banter and stolen moments sparkle brighter than the supposed suspense with the rival gang. The pacing issues are real, and the constant veil of secrecy becomes irritating, but the emotional growth of the leads makes the journey worthwhile. If you’re willing to settle in for the long haul, there’s a satisfying love story revving beneath all the drama.

Smut Level: The flirtatious banter and stolen glances pack more heat than most explicit scenes could. These two never cross the line into full-on intercourse, but let’s just say the poetic descriptions of grinding could steam up your sunglasses.

Get it on Amazon: Click Here. $14.99 Kindle Price. Harlequin Teen. 497 Pages.