Boyfriends

 

Details

A comic about getting yourself a boyfriend… or multiple boyfriends! Four college students begin a polyamorous relationship and navigate the adventure that is their dating life!

Overview

This comic has so far two seasons (152 chapters) and new chapters are published twice a week (Tuesday and Friday) on webtoon.

The chapters are quite short, the art is wonderful. It is qualified as Slice of live, which is a narrative genre which consists of telling the daily life of the characters.

The main characters are four college students who initially start dating as two independent couples, but soon realize that they are all attracted to each other and decide to start a polyamorous relationship between the four of them.

The first season (Chapter 1 to 100) shows us the beginning of the relationship, how they met and their first dates and other first times…

The second season (Chapter 101 – ongoing) things continue well for the couple, we learn more about their families, and they decide to move in together.

Characters:

Goth (Felix) is a 21-year-old transgender man. He is a lover of dark-colored clothes and the typical gothic aesthetic. He is shown that he likes to play video games in his spare time. Goth is a smoker. He started dating Nerd first, before beginning a relationship with Prep and Jock as well.

Nerd (Adrian) is a 19-year-old pansexual male and is double majoring in math and astronomy in his freshman year of college. This is shown to be stressful for him at times, and he relies on the support of his boyfriend to get by. Nerd likes K-pop idols, which helps spark his relationship with Jock. They learn dances and go to concerts of their favorite artists together. He also spends a lot of time playing video games and watching anime with Goth when they start dating. Nerd regularly changes his hair color and is also the shortest and youngest of the group.

Prep (Vincent) is a 21-year-old gay senior, business student, and student union member. He's reasonably well off money-wise, but he still likes Goth to pay for his stuff. He is Goth's tidy roommate and is shown to have had numerous affairs with him. The two were relatively physical, but he never realized that Goth liked him more than as friends with benefits. Prep begins dating Jock, who he was extremely uncomfortable with at first. Both he and Jock start dating Nerd and Goth.

Jock (Kevin) is a 20-year-old bisexual sophomore. He studies physiology and plays on the college soccer team. He is also a good cook and really good on sports.

Review

✨✨✨✨✨ if love really exists, it would be this

I read this comic for the first time when there was only one season published, in December 2021, but I decided to read it again for the May challenge. I consider that the characters represent almost all the colors of the rainbow, and additionally presents several polyamorous couples.

There is not a single regulatory element in this comic, and for this reason it seemed to me the best option to read in the month of pride.

Needless to say, I loved it. Each character is his own person, with their own purposes and desires, and yet they make their relationship work and support each other.

Galatea

 

Details

An enchanting short story from Madeline Miller that boldly reimagines the myth of Galatea and Pygmalion.

In Ancient Greece, a skilled marble sculptor has been blessed by a goddess who has given his masterpiece — the most beautiful woman the town has ever seen — the gift of life. Now his wife, he expects Galatea to please him, to be obedience and humility personified. But she has desires of her own and yearns for independence.

In a desperate bid by her obsessive husband to keep her under control, Galatea is locked away under the constant supervision of doctors and nurses. But with a daughter to rescue, she is determined to break free, whatever the cost…

Review

⭐⭐⭐⭐ ⭐ I wasn't prepared 🙀

As part of the reading challenge for April, I had to read a retelling and the book initially chosen was Circe by Madeline Miller, but I put that reading aside because the narration seemed too heavy. I honestly did not connect with Circe, so I decided to abandon that book and better read Galatea instead because why not?

What could go wrong in a book that barely has 20 pages?

Well, let me tell you that everything, everything can go wrong if the author is Madeline Miller. Don't get me wrong, the story is good, it's well written, good narration and good dialogues… And I think that this only makes the experience worse (I loved it, but was terrified). 🤣

The thing is that, in this retelling of the myth of Pygmalion and Galatea, in a few words and without going too deep, the author presents the life of a woman whose husband keeps her captive. Only giving us the minimum details necessary for the reader to understand, and get an idea for themselves, of what is going on. Those few details give the reader the freedom to fill in the blanks with they own imagination, which makes for a more immersive read.

I would classify it as psychological terror 😥

Monthly Challenge - Theme challenge I

Today I want to show you the monthly list of challenges for Theme Challenge I, which is part of my Reading Challenge this year.

In this, each month I must read a book that meets a certain requirement, ranging from “a book published in 2022” or “Cat in the title.”

So far it has been fun doing the challenges each month, since I have discovered books that I would not have read if it hadn't been for the challenge and that I really liked. But it has also been the case that I did not like the chosen book.

But it's all part of the experience and in fact I'm already thinking and jotting down ideas for next year's challenge 😉

Below I leave you the list of titles that I chose to read for each monthly challenge, as well as the link to the reviews of each book in case one catches your attention.

List

January – A book published on 2022: Alastair

February – A Romantic novel: Henri

March – A woman protagonist: Marry my husband

April – A retelling novel: Galatea

May – Found family: Network Effect

June – LGBTQIA+ protagonist: Boyfriends

July – A fantasy novel: Echo

August – “Cat” on the title: 

September – National author:

October – A terror novel:

November - Manhwa/Graphic novel:

December – A book published on 2023:

So far this is the progress I have made in this challenge and I will update this post every month.

I'm excited about the challenge for August, I already chose several books with the word “cat” in the title, and as the cat lover that I am, I am very excited to read them.

Echo - July best reading

Details

The Devils of Vitality always hit their mark.

Rabbit Trace is a musical prodigy with a secret.

Ever since an event that took place a year ago, he gets terrible stage fright before every performance. With a famous mother who's dedicated her entire life to her craft, and the weight of her expectations heavy on his shoulders, Rabbit is only one panic attack away from crumbling. He knows it'll be easier to escape if he stops running from the memory of that night, but he's stubborn and doesn't want to remember something so horrible his mind thought fit to erase it for him. Monotony has helped him make it through, and he's settled into a dull routine that keeps his mind occupied, the worst of the attacks limited to just before performances. That is, until one of the infamous Devils of Vitality suddenly takes notice and decides to invade his life, whether he reciprocates or not.

Baikal Void has many titles.

Each of them comes with a responsibility attached to it. Future Dominus, head of the Vitality Brumal Mafia, is just one of them. He's always known he'd one day have to take the crown, he just never realized it'd be so soon. With his father dying and the inevitable changing of power looming, Baikal struggles to keep his deranged nature under control as he grapples with the upcoming loss. Then one night he's dragged to a recital for his university and sees him for the first time. After one glance, he knows he's found his saving grace in Rabbit, the reserved musician who looks like he's battling demons of his own. Just like that, he's got a new title to add to the list. He's going to be the owner of one little ethereal bunny.

Rabbit doesn't understand Baikal's sudden and intense interest, or why the Brumal Prince has gone out of his way to collect enough dirt on his mom to force his hand. Blackmailed into a relationship of sorts, Rabbit fights against Baikal's constant advances and his own tumultuous feelings. Everything Baikal inflicts on him is wrong and twisted, and yet the longer he's made to endure, the more codependent Rabbit finds himself becoming. Baikal promises freedom from the predetermined fate he's always been a slave to, but only if he gives himself over to him completely.

And if he doesn't do so willingly? A devil is always prepared to take what they want, and Baikal Void is no exception.

Review

✨✨✨✨✨ OMFG, I'm speechless…

I must admit that after carefully reading the author's note at the beginning of the book, I almost decided not to read it… but I'm glad I did, because OH. My. God!!!

I read it twice in a row, why? Well, the first time I was so desperate to know what would happen that I skipped several pages, reading only the dialogues or some paragraphs if I didn't understand something. And the second time I read it completely… word for word (16+ hours, very well invested).

Now… the characters: I immediately hated December, I couldn't wait to see what his karma would be… and oh boy was I so pleased with his punishment.

I'm so sorry for what happened to Oli, he didn't deserve it, but it is what it is…

Baikal and Rabbit are made for each other.

Baikal is the Brumal Prince, possessive, jealous, heir to the Void conglomerate, obsessive, intense… Yes, he is all of that and more, but more importantly… he cares about the well-being of his little bunny.

Rabbit is dealing with traumas from the past that cause him panic attacks and stage fright and fear of the dark. Due to his upbringing he is unable to stand for himself, he is afraid of his mother and her expectations of him, and has never had a chance to decide the course of his life…until now.

Kal comes into Rabbit's life like a wrecking ball, determined to let his tiny obsession know who he belongs to, take care of him, help him overcome his fears, set him free… and succeeds. !

From start to finish, the book is a whirlwind of emotions that kept me up all night.

Warnings: if you are a frequent Dark Romance reader, you can read this book without any problem, now, if like me, you are not a regular on the subject, I recommend reading the trigger warnings carefully and heeding the author's advice. Always remembering that this is fantasy, and it's okay to fall in love with Kal, but if in real life you come cross with a Baikal Void or a December Trace… run, ask for help.

Ultimately, this was the first book I've read by this author, and I plan to read more in the near future. I hope that Echo is not the only book we have in this universe, I would really like to know what Kelevra and the twins bring, what about the life of Kaz, Flix and Berga… I want to know more about all the characters and this universe, I need more!!!

The Blade That Knows My Name

 Details

Caution: Contents may be hot! A DARK AND THRILLING M/M FANTASY ROMANCE.

Yarek is an aging warrior accused of a crime he didn't commit. He's on the run from assassins sent by the Norse King whom he served. Along the way, he meets a mysterious stranger who insists on accompanying him. Soon it becomes clear that something is very odd about the strange man. Is he a threat, or will he change Yarek's life forever? Soon Yarek must face his gravest battle against an opponent whom no sword can defeat. This time he must fight not for honor or glory, but for love, because the price of failure is nothing other than his soul!

This gripping, deeply passionate adventure romance is set in the wild Steppes of Eurasia during the Iron Age, a brutal time when strength was not measured by the sword but by one's character.

Trigger warning. This novel contains scenes of violence and death. If you enjoy swords and sorcery, romantic friendships and adventure romance, don't miss this one!

Review

⭐⭐⭐ I feel cheated.

The first line of the description says explicitly: “Caution: Contents may be hot! A DARK AND THRILLING M/M FANTASY ROMANCE”… I reached 75% of the book and I still can't find said content hot, dark and thrilling, much less the romance.

Good fantasy adventure story? Yeah.

Good world building? Obviously.

Good storytelling? Not much.

Hot and exciting romance? Not anywhere in sight.

The story goes back and forth constantly. Every few paragraphs Aukka changes or adds to his story, as if he's making it up in the process. It is assumed that he already trusts Yarek, but at the same time, he has been lying to him from the beginning and has not stopped. And every time he adds more stuff, his “mission” makes less and less sense.

First he had to bring a gift to someone, that someone turns out to be an enemy of Yarek who has put a pretty high price on his head. Then it turns out that someone made a deal with Aukka´s Lord, then it turns out that Aukka is not human, then it turns out that everything is a plan by Aukka´s Lord to dominate the world. Then it turns out that Aukka´s Lord cares less about his original plan with Yarek's enemy and what he wants is for Aukka to return to him and for Aukka to reign with him. And while all this happens, we find out that the person Aukka had said rescued him when his villa was attacked, didn't really rescue him, because it was that same person who was behind the attack… and so on.

Everything that Aukka says and explains to Yarek is later denied by Aukka himself.

And even though they have become close, it's more like a closeness from spending so much time together, traveling alone and facing dangers left and right. But nothing close to romantic feelings, at least as far as I'm at, 75% of the book.

Up to this point, neither of them has mentioned or even thought to themselves that they see the other as more than just a fellow traveler.

I don't like to leave books halfway through, but really this is one that I will regretfully leave unfinished, since the description promises something that really, from my point of view, does not deliver. I think it would be best to modify the description and leave it as it is: an adventure and fantasy book set in the wild Steppes of Eurasia. With mentions of the folklore and myths of the cultures of the area and a pinch, very small and at the end, of romance.

Heir to Thorn and Flame

 

Details

Married to a ruthless prince…

For years, Max had to serve and obey the vicious magical nobles. Now he is one of them.

When the heir to the throne attacks him, Max accidentally responds with a lethal burst of magic. Max is certain he will be executed. But his power is too rare and precious for that…

Instead, the king forces him to become the boy he killed, taking on the identity and duties of the heir. That includes an arranged marriage—to the dangerously attractive Prince Camron.

Living a lie, Max knows he can trust no one. Not Camron. And definitely not Simion, a handsome, dragon-riding spy sent to test his loyalty.

As a deadly struggle for power begins and desire sparks, Max must protect his secret and his heart at all costs.

Review

⭐⭐⭐⭐

I find it difficult to rate this book. On the one hand, I must say that it is a good story. I liked it, and it kept me on the edge of a precipice of emotions almost 100% of the reading.

The author delivers what he promises, and that must have been a hint for me of what was to come: it is, certainly, a mix between Merlin and The House of the Dragon… That means everyone lies, everyone has ulterior motives, and you shouldn't trust anyone. There is no black and white, only shades of gray. There are no bad or good people (except Julian y Jonathan Gathrax, they are absolutely bad, full-fledged sons of a b****); only people who have plans and purposes that they want to accomplish.

And on the other hand, there is the fact that I hate love triangles with all my heart, and that must have been another sign to me that this book would not be entirely to my liking… Not because it's a bad book, but because one of the important aspects of it is not to my taste.

So this is an honest and unbiased review, almost…

There is Max, who has lived all his life believing that he is the son of mere servants in the house of one of the rulers of the Southern territory.

The first chapters briefly explain the political division of the territory and the existing dispute between the South and the North (it would have been nice to have a map. I mean, what fantasy book worth its salt doesn't have a map?) We learn about the existence of mages, dryads, and dragons… So far, so good.

Things happen, and we find out that Max is a mage, which is supposed to be impossible since the magic source of the South was destroyed by the North… And thus begin the misadventures of Maximus Oaken (I found it curious and almost impossible to believe that nobody wondered why Max bears the last name Oaken, like Heart Oaken. A fact that nobody has paid attention to, and I wonder why).

Misadventures in which Max is abused, threatened, used for the purposes of others, forced to do things against his will, and made commitments that only death can undo (or perhaps not even death can set him free). Shortly after, our love interests Simion (who in my head I changed the name to Simon) and Camron appear. It is assumed that Max feels an undeniable attraction towards both of them and they in turn towards him, but that remains on paper… I didn't feel like it was really intense…

Max is kidnapped and/or held captive by one character or another, and although he always breaks “free”, he is never really free, he comes out of someone's captivity to be in someone else's.

The fact that everyone has a piece of the truth about what's going on, but no one wanted to talk about it had me desperate. And that in the end Max does the same and instead of revealing his conversation with the Queen he decides to keep quiet… that made me much more angry.

I don't know how to feel about being right about Beatrice. I liked that I didn't have to wait until the end of the book for Max to have his revenge, but I didn't like the ending itself.

This is supposed to be the first book in a trilogy or series. So I guess we will have to wait for the next books to know the whole truth and see how everything is solved.

Before the Storm

 

Details

Haven’t you ever wondered how your parents met?

Orlun and Rurig have been married for a long time. Things may have gotten a little less exciting after having three children together, but it’s their life, and they wouldn’t trade it for anything else. So when a civil war threatens to tear apart their home and has them both working with the city’s militia, they’re not exactly happy about it.

Jarek is a new recruit. Young and maybe a little naïve, he’s a lover, not a fighter—but he’ll do what he has to if it means protecting the people he cares about. Which might include Orlun and Rurig. There’s something brewing between the three of them, but is it strong enough to survive when tragedy strikes?

This is a story about romance, awkward dates, and questionable parenting decisions. Set over twenty years before the events of Steel & Thunder, this prequel tells the tale of how these three men found each other and formed a family in the face of danger and uncertainty. This novella is for readers who like gay/male-on-male polyamorous romances with a heaping helping of orcs.

Review

⭐⭐⭐⭐ I totally chose to read this book because of the cover. And I was absolutely right.

The story is short, so it doesn't go into much detail about world-building or how magic or politics works, but enough detail is given so that the reader understands at least the surface of how it all works.

The protagonists, Orlun and Rurig, are a couple with children, who occasionally invite third parties to their beds and this seems to be a normal thing in their society, as well as same-sex marriages. So it's no surprise that they start dating Jarek, a new recruit in the militia, where Orlun and Rurig already work.

Apart from the story between the characters, there is the political situation in which they live. There is a rebel group that wants to take control of the city by force, and the leaders must repel the attacks. And while that happens, our characters are faced with difficult decisions to make to cope with the situation while they raise and educate their children.

An important point is the fact that Rurig and Orlun each have two jobs, one of them being their assignments in the militia. And because of this their children are left alone at night and this fact is questioned by Jarek and causes a temporary break in their relationship. The children are very young, only 8 and 1-year-old, so they are not old enough to be alone at night and there is only one neighbor to check them from time to time and taking into account the precarious sociopolitical situation… It's very irresponsible of them.

If they weren't under attack, I think it wouldn't be such a bad idea for the children to be alone and have someone watch them, but they are, indeed, under attack. Luckily, nothing bad happens, at least not to the children.

I would have appreciated an explanation for certain words, such as 'Orda' or 'Ruda.' For the context in which they are used, it is clear that those are the terms for Father or Dad, but it is not specified. There also isn't an explanation on how same-sex couples have children. There is no mention that it is an omegaverse or that the story is Mpreg or that they have used a surrogate mother… Nothing.

Maybe it's explained in the next books in the series, and that's why I'm going to read them all 😉

Damien

 Details

It takes three to make life go right…

Private Investigator Damien Anderson and his younger brother watched in horror as their parents were killed in cold blood by the head of the mafia. Eyewitnesses to a crime boss suspected in multiple homicides and a major gun trafficker, they have spent the last fifteen years in the Witness Protection program.

A teddy bear at heart, Damien can be sweet and kind, but the moment anyone puts the people he loves at risk, he has no problem becoming lethal. Working with the FPA, the brothers find themselves at a crossroads when their past starts to catch up to them. Do they tell the men in the Agency the truth, or run once more and leave behind everyone they've come to think of as family?

Ex FBI Agent Max Morris is a man with a darker personality and a deadly skill set, who just happens to be the very definition of vigilante justice… and he has no issue with admitting it. Fed up with tracking down some of the worst repeat offenders only for the court to let them go on technicalities, Max quit the FBI and took matters into his own hands. He doesn’t regret a moment of it. Someone has to take the predators like his father off the street.

Travis Manning is a social worker and the newest member of the FPA task force. He is in his element helping to find safe haven homes for the children in need. The shy, secretive, non-social man suffers from low self-esteem, which isn’t helped when he seems to always end up dating men who are in the closet and keep him as their dirty secret. Travis always feels like he isn’t good enough, until he’s caught between Max and Damien. Literally.

When Travis’ abusive ex shows up in Baton Rouge and proves he's a risk to the sweet man they love, what lengths will Max and Damien go to in order to keep Travis safe forever?

Review

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ OMG! I LOVED IT. 

I started reading without having read the synopsis, so imagine my surprise when I realized that this book would be a triad! It was wonderful! I love polyamory.

The first chapter was hard for me to read because of the mentions and descriptions of Baxter abusing Travis, but just when it got worse, and I thought I couldn't even continue, it was over. Which was a relief.

If Noah's book was different, this one takes the prize! The first chapters were an introduction of the characters and their respective stories and backgrounds and the beginning of their relationship. The scene in the bar… Perfectly magnificent.

There was a little bit of tension with Baxter and I got pretty mad at Travis for not talking to Max and Damien or even Mason about that situation, I mean… It was stupid of him not to seek help. And being a social worker and having seen thousands of cases of family violence… He should have known better 😵‍💫😥😮‍💨. I understand why maybe he was a little embarrassed to talk about it with Damien and Max, their relationship was limited to one night of sex and nothing else, but he must have talked to someone at least.

The good thing is that the agony didn't last that long, and they were able to solve that problem relatively quickly, and I loved their action plan.

The issue with the mob boss chasing Sebastian and Damien has yet to be resolved, which I suppose will be part of the plot of Sebastian's book (which I hope will be an “enemies to lovers”). And, perhaps, if luck is with me, in the future there will be a book about Mason's brother.

I look forward to the next set of books in this series!

Noah

 

Details

Letting go is truly the most powerful control of all.

Federal Prosecutor, Noah Riley, has had enough of what he feels is a failing justice system. He’s watched one too many times as young victims are let down and the men who have caused them harm go free. It’s time for a change in his life, but he has no idea where to start.

Fire Captain William Clarke doesn’t get close to the men who work under him at the firehouse. He keeps his distance and his personal life entirely separate to avoid his secret coming out. His men could never respect him if they knew his preferences, so it’s simply better to stay in the closet. No man could ever make him come out—until he meets Noah, and what he believes is all shot to hell in a single heartbeat.

Can these two men find the love that will change both their lives forever?

Review

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Loved it 

I loved that this book was a little different from the others in the series, a little more focused on the couple and not so much on their works. Although of course their respective jobs are an important part in how things develop between them. 

We can see that Noah presents symptoms of PTSD and needing a break, he goes to visit his younger brother only to be involved in another case. The good thing is that he meets William, who will be the key piece for his recovery. 

And at the same time, Noah will be what William need to start living his life being 100% himself.

I was so focused on William and Noah's story that I didn't see the signs that indicated who was the arsonist, which was… 🤔 I do not know… I liked the surprise, it was basically in front of my eyes from the start 🙃.

Cooper

 

Details 

The right path can save a life…

Growing up in foster care, the only true friends Cooper Jones had been the black-hat hackers at the community center. At eighteen, after being caught by the government for hacking into Homeland Security, The Agent in Charge, impressed by Coop’s skills, determined he needed to work for the government instead of hacking them. That Agent saved him from a life of crime, and almost certainly saved his life.

Now an analyst and hacker for Homeland Security, Coop prefers to be behind a computer to fight his battles. Recently scooped up by the Federal Protection Agency, he is a valuable asset to the team.

Detective Jonah West has dedicated his life to helping the people of Baton Rouge, and he doesn’t like it when criminals get to go free on a technicality. He spends countless hours every day being the best police officer he can to make sure that doesn’t happen often. The downside to a cop's life is that his twelve-year-old son, Drew, spends much of his time alone with only his computer for entertainment. When his house is broken into and Drew comes up missing, Jonah contacts the FPA and asks them for help. Jonah is willing to pull out all the stops if it means getting his son back.

Can Coop and Jonah keep Drew safe while they track down the kidnappers, and will their growing closeness mean they have a future together?

Trigger Warning: Murder, Violence, Kidnapping, Abuse, and other crimes against children.

Review

⭐⭐⭐⭐ So far, Cooper is my favorite book in this series. 

Not only did I love the story of Jonah and Cooper and I think it is very well written, but the whole situation in which it unfolds was quite different from the previous books. 

Yes, it follows the formula in which the characters meet due to a new case and somehow end up working together, but this case has several plot twists that I did not expect. 

Previous books had few to no plot twists, they were quite straight to the point: a new case, the protagonists begin to work together for X or Y reason, They look for the “bad guy” to arrest him and voilà, case solved. 

I didn't expect the ending, it was a bit frustrating I must admit, but it was a good ending and given the plot I think it was the right ending.

A Bit Murder Between Friends

 

Details

Cupcakes are sweet… but vengeance is sweeter.

Baz, Peggy, Carole, and Madge aren’t your regular grannies. Behind their smiles and pots of tea lies a dark secret. When they’re not knitting or exchanging juicy titbits of gossip, they’re keeping the streets safe – and they’re not afraid of using a little murder to make it happen.

A predator is stalking south-east London and the four women decide to take matters into their own hands. With the community at risk and the police unwilling to help, the ladies set out to unravel a sinister mystery.

But their notion of justice isn’t bound by the law. These women aren’t afraid to get their hands dirty – and their mission is to bring the whole criminal underground to its knees.

A Bit of Murder Between Friends is cosy(ish), noir(ish), humorous crime fiction that will delight fans of Killers of a Certain Age and An Elderly Lady is Up to No Good. With colourful characters, queer themes, amateur female sleuths, and no shortage of twists and turns, the first book in the Vigil auntie Justice series is guaranteed to leave you itching for more. Scroll up and grab your copy now…

Review

⭐⭐⭐⭐ The plot twists! 

I strongly recommend that before reading this book read Friends in need. Why? If you are not familiar with British English, it will help you get used to the language structure used in the book and will also give you a background about the characters and how they became Vigilaunties. 

That said… My review. 

I received this book through Book Sirens for free in exchange for an honest review. The reason I chose this book was the cover and title, they caught my attention immediately. At first everything felt very slow, as if the plot had no direction, so the first 32 pages were quite difficult to read, once that point is overcome everything gets interesting. 

It has some pretty intriguing plot twists, which made me doubt my assumptions at first, they ended up being just as I assumed, but made me doubt. 

I enjoyed the story. I laughed at Carola's witticisms and read from beginning to end totally caught up in the plot. 

About 50% of the book the identity of the Goldsmiths Groper was quite obvious, but because of the investigation and assumptions that the Vigilaunties carried I doubted my conclusions. Which I think is great because although it was quite obvious, it was still captivating. 

And the scene at the end with the Vigilaunties in the tea house responding so calmly, fabulous!

 

Someone to give them an Oscar for best performance! 🤣😅

Echo

Details 

The Devils of Vitality always hit their mark.

Rabbit Trace is a musical prodigy with a secret.

Ever since an event that took place a year ago, he gets terrible stage fright before every performance. With a famous mother who's dedicated her entire life to her craft, and the weight of her expectations heavy on his shoulders, Rabbit is only one panic attack away from crumbling. He knows it'll be easier to escape if he stops running from the memory of that night, but he's stubborn and doesn't want to remember something so horrible his mind thought fit to erase it for him. Monotony has helped him make it through, and he's settled into a dull routine that keeps his mind occupied, the worst of the attacks limited to just before performances. That is until one of the infamous Devils of Vitality suddenly takes notice and decides to invade his life, whether he reciprocates or not.

Baikal Void has many titles.

Each of them comes with a responsibility attached to it. Future Dominus, head of the Vitality Brumal Mafia, is just one of them. He's always known he'd one day have to take the crown, he just never realized it'd be so soon. With his father dying and the inevitable changing of power looming, Baikal struggles to keep his deranged nature under control as he grapples with the upcoming loss. Then one night he's dragged to a recital for his university and sees him for the first time. After one glance he knows he's found his saving grace in Rabbit, the reserved musician who looks like he's battling demons of his own. Just like that, he's got a new title to add to the list. He's going to be the owner of one little ethereal bunny.

Rabbit doesn't understand Baikal's sudden and intense interest, or why the Brumal Prince has gone out of his way to collect enough dirt on his mom to force his hand. Blackmailed into a relationship of sorts, Rabbit fights against Baikal's constant advances and his own tumultuous feelings. Everything Baikal inflicts on him is wrong and twisted, and yet the longer he's made to endure, the more codependent Rabbit finds himself becoming. Baikal promises freedom from the predetermined fate he's always been a slave to, but only if he gives himself over to him completely.

And if he doesn't do so willingly? A devil is always prepared to take what they want, and Baikal Void is no exception.

Review

✨✨✨✨✨ OMFG, I'm speechless...

I must admit that after carefully reading the author's note at the beginning of the book I almost decided not to read it... but I'm glad I did, because OH. My. God!!!

I read it twice in a row, why? Well, the first time I was so desperate to know what would happen that I skipped several pages, reading only the dialogues or some paragraphs if I didn't understand something... and the second time I read it completely... word for word (16+ hours very well invested).

Now... the characters: I immediately hated December, I couldn't wait to see what his karma would be... and oh boy was I so pleased with his punishment.

I'm so sorry for what happened to Oli, he didn't deserve it, but it is what it is...

Baikal and Rabbit are made for each other.

Baikal is the Brumal Prince, possessive, jealous, heir to the Void conglomerate, obsessive, intense... Yes he is all of that and more, but more importantly... he cares about the well being of his little bunny.

Rabbit is dealing with traumas from the past that cause him panic attacks and stage fright and fear of the dark. Due to his upbringing he is do not know how to stand for himself, he is afraid of his mother and her expectations of him, and has never had a chance to decide the course of his life...until now.

Kal comes into Rabbit's life like a wrecking ball, determined to let his tiny obsession know who he belongs to, take care of him, help him overcome his fears, set him free... and he succeeds!

From start to finish the book is a whirlwind of emotions that kept me up all night.

Warnings: if you are a frequent Dark Romance reader, you can read this book without any problem, now, if like me, you are not a regular on the subject, I recommend reading the trigger warnings carefully and heeding the author's advice. Always remembering that this is fantasy and it's okay to fall in love with Kal, but if in real life you come across a Baikal Void or a December Trace... run as fast as you can, ask for help.

Ultimately, this was the first book I've read by this author and I plan to read more in the near future. I hope that Echo is not the only book we´ll have in this universe, I would really like to know what Kelevra and the twins bring, what about the life of  Kaz, Flix and Berga... I want to know more about all the characters and this universe, I need more!!!

Ripped

 

Details

Sometimes heartache is a blessing in disguise.

I thought my life was perfect, and then I walked in on my boyfriend sleeping with my best friend.

The only person I can turn to now is Donnie, the silver-fox spin instructor who lets me crash at his place. Donnie’s a lot older and he’s still grieving his late husband. My dreams of being a filmmaker have disintegrated along with my relationship.

The worst of life has brought us together. Do we dare create something beautiful out of it?

Overview

Ripped by Linden Bell is an age gap, nerd/jock, hurt/comfort MM romance between roommates who cuddle while watching classic movies. Expect low angst steamy shower rooms, teary confessions, disapproving family, and brand new beginnings. It is the first book in the Mars Fitness series and can be read as a standalone.

Content Warnings: grief and loss of a spouse, description of fatal car accident, description of homophobic family, cheating secondary characters. Happily ever after guaranteed.

Review

⭐⭐⭐⭐ It was good, I wanted a little more drama, but it was good.

I was hooked on the story from the first paragraph, although at first I felt that the story was not progressing, it takes almost 65 pages to cover the events of just the first 24 hours, and that makes it difficult for the intensity of their feelings to be completely credible since they go from not knowing each other to have deep feelings for each other in just over a day.

From the description I thought it would be a friends to lovers and that the relationship would develop slowly, but after reading the book I think it's more of an insta love. Their feelings appeared before they got to know each other and I don't mean knowing each other deeply, what I mean is that before Donnie took Connor home he didn't even know his name, but two hours later he was all protective of Connor and by the next morning he was willing to even argue with his friends for defending Connor.

Anyway, Connor and Donnie are great for each other, even if it all happens a little too fast, they are exactly what they needed to go from merely existing to actually living a fulfilling and loving life.

I was waiting for something dramatic to happen related to Connor and Wyatt's project, some showdown, revenge or just karma... that would have been great.

Something that I personally didn't like: the armpit thing... it's not for me.

Ryzen

 

Details

True evil lurks in the darkness…

Recruited at eighteen by the CIA, Ryzen is one of the best snipers in the world. Now, he’s working with the Federal Protection Agency to aid them in their fight to track down the vile people who perpetuate crimes against children. Always hidden behind his dark sunglasses, Ry is a mystery to everyone and he prefers it that way.

Ry remembers Knox from when he had his psych evaluation, and that the profiler’s report was what resulted in his discharge from the CIA. He’s not impressed with the man, and even more disturbed by the way he makes Ry feel.

A profiler with the FBI, Knox Hunter is investigating a series of murders. The victims are all male, between twelve and fourteen, and all have the same MO. With the Mayor pushing for re-election, a report of a serial killer could jeopardize the campaign’s success, so Knox is sent in to work with the FPA to try and close the case, fast and by any means necessary. The only problem is, Knox is an office man, not a field man, and this new path could be the most dangerous one of his entire career.

Will Ry be able to keep Knox safe while they track down and put away this serial killer, or is he destined to be the biggest threat—to Knox’s heart?

Review

⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4.5 Hot enemies to lovers 🤤✨

✨ Enemies to lovers ✨

✨ Force proximity ✨

✨ Slow Burn ✨

At first I was very upset with Knox because he was being arrogant and pretentious. But I forgave him because he acknowledged his mistake and apologized to Ry. Of the three, this is my favorite.

It was perfect. I loved their story and relationship and how everything happened between them, they are just perfect.

❗Things to improve: the only thing I can think of that can be improved in this and the other stories is the ending... Each book ends when the case is solved, however, the relationship of the characters is only at an initial point. The characters are still getting to know each other, working on the relationship and making things work for them... I felt it incomplete...

❗Things that are just perfect: Something I loved about each character and their respective relationships is the fact that they talk things out without wasting time trying to guess the other person's feelings. They take action to know what the other person feels and in the process they let the other person know what they feel.

Rafe

 

Details

A chance to find real love…

Ex-SEAL, Special Agent Rafe Dallas spent years working for the DOJ after his medical discharge. Now, he's joined a special Task Force fighting crimes against children. After successfully completing his first operation, Rafe is determined to give everything he has to save as many children as he can.

After learning about the tragic death of his Navy SEAL buddy, John, he promises to look after the man’s younger brother and do what he can to help find his daughter.

Finley Quinn is working undercover at a human trafficking ring trying to find his niece. He was set to join the SEALS eighteen months ago, following in his older brother’s footsteps, when John was killed in a home invasion and his six-year-old daughter was kidnapped. He has been looking for her ever since. The local police believe she's dead but Finley won't consider that possibility and refuses to give up.

When Rafe joins him undercover, Finley is hard pressed not to remember the huge crush he had on the sexy older man.

Will they save Finley’s niece before it’s too late? Will Rafe ever see Finley as more than his best friend’s kid brother?

Review

⭐⭐⭐ 3.5 I liked, it was enjoyable

I would dare to say that I liked this one more than the previous one (Mason). It was a little harder to focus on Rafe and Fin because most of the story happens while they're undercover and horrible things are happening around them, but I still really liked how it all came about between them.

I liked that Fin was clear with his feelings and he let Rafe know, although Rafe wasn't ready at the time to accept his own feelings, but I think knowing Fin's feelings helped him a little bit to recognize his own and accept them.

❗Things to improve: again and as in the previous book, the characters repeated lines of internal dialogue word by word.

Another thing that happened in both books is the inconsistencies. There were some pieces of information which were mentioned on several occasions, but differed in some details that perhaps went unnoticed by the author and the editor. I wish they could check that out and fix it.

Anyways, I enjoyed the reading.

Mason

 

Details

There is freedom in acceptance…

Mason Wright works for Homeland Security focusing on crimes against children. Five year old Koda is his beloved K9 partner, and aside from his brother, Koda is the only family Mason has. Recently diagnosed with PTSD, Mason takes some much needed time off to go visit his brother, but the little vacay unexpectedly turns into yet more work as he’s assigned the job of creating a task force to track down Jasper Monroe for his crimes. Monroe leads them on a merry chase but as they head into Mexico, Mason has a plan to take the dirty cop down.

Jarod Lopez is a new detective in the police force. Saddled with a homophobic partner, Jarod remains in the closet and just does as he’s told as the rookie of the department. Caring for his drug addict mother and hiding from his father’s past, Jarod keeps his head down and doesn’t make waves. The situation makes for a lonely life with little chance of his skills as a detective being put to good use. When the coveted chance to join a recently developed task force drops in his lap, Jarod jumps at the opportunity. Paired up with Mason as his new partner, Jarod finds himself experiencing things he never thought possible.

Will the pair find love while they chase down the bad guy and bring him to justice?

Review

⭐⭐⭐ 3.5 It was good, but it could've been better 

First of all, I liked the story, Jarod and Mason make a nice couple. I liked that both were clear with what they wanted from the relationship and there were no misunderstandings or miscommunications.

 It was funny that Mason told himself that Jarod was not his type, without knowing that Jarod was indeed his type, 100% his soulmate. 

❗Things to improve: The story is well done and developed, I have no doubt about that, but there is a point regarding the times when Jarod tried to get his mother rehabilitated. This is mentioned twice but the information is not entirely consistent. 

❗Another thing that needs improvement is in terms of the closure of the story and plot. Throughout the book, both the plot about the Task Force Team and the relationship of Mason and Jarod, is developed in detail, step by step. However, when it comes time to close the case, catch the bad guy and solidifying the relationship between Jarod and Mason everything happens abruptly.

❗Finally, the points of view: On several occasions Jarod and Mason repeated dialogues, thought the same thing and used the same words to express their feelings and thoughts about something, At times it felt like it was a single point of view or that the characters had the same personality and way of thinking. 

Married to His Marshal

 

Details

The marriage is fake. Their vows to stay together are real.

Benoit is a by-the-book lawman. He’s spent two decades wielding the badge of the US Marshals service with integrity and honor. His shining record is put to the test when he’s assigned to protect a boy toy turned informant.

Nicky climbed out of the gutter by crawling into the bed of a bad man. Controlling. Cruel. It didn’t take long for his dreamy mobster to turn into a nightmare. Overnight, Nicky went from arm candy to star witness.

To ensure Nicky’s safety until the trial, they’re both relocated to start a new life together…as husbands. They’ll have to learn how to play house together to elude retaliation from the Russian mob.

But Nicky’s crass tongue and sinful lips drive Benoit to break all the rules. He wants to have and to hold that boy as his boy. 

Forever.

Overview

Married to His Marshal by Shiloh Swift is a sweet and spicy bite-sized read. Ends with a HEA. No cheating or cliffhangers. Part of the His Blue Collar Man novella series. Each book is a standalone, so binge read in any order!

Review

⭐⭐⭐ 3.5 It was good

I love these Blue Collar Man, especially Ben.

So in this book we have Benoit, a US Marshall agent who is assigned custody of Nicky, who is a protected witness in a case against a Russian organized crime group.

The sparks between them are immediate and having to pretend to be a married couple only ignites them.

I liked the way Benoit and Nicky talked and expressed their feelings before anything happened between them, I think it saved us unnecessary drama.

The way the issue with Yakov played out was a bit predictable, I saw it coming, and I got a little mad at Lulu, but it makes sense that she did it.

I hope there will be more stories like this in the future.

Claimed by the Cowboy

 

Details

Calder promised to never chase after Nate…but he can’t hold back from claiming what’s always been his when Nate returns.

A protective bronco buster. A spirited horse jockey. They feared their love had turned to ash, but true love never dies. It only smolders.

Nate was born to inherit his family’s horse ranch, but he grew up with dreams too big for his small hometown. Calder is the ideal ranch hand. A strong back. A steady countenance. He was supposed to be breaking in the stallions, not taking a roll in the hay with the boss’ only son.

Their forbidden love was too strong to hide forever. Nate begged Calder to leave and start a new life together. A misunderstanding led to Nate running away…alone.

Years later, Nate is a rising star in horse racing until a fall at the track leaves his leg broken and his big city life shattered. With nowhere else to go and no one to help with his rehabilitation, Nate accepts his estranged family’s invitation to return to the little town of Grand Pines, Oregon.

Nate falls again. This time right into bed with his former flame. This unexpected homecoming rekindles Nate and Calder’s simmering passion into a blazing inferno. But with Calder still nursing his broken heart and Nate recovering from his career-ending injury, will they heal together or heal apart?

Overview

Claimed by the Cowboy by Shiloh Swift is an instalove second chance age gap romance. This is a quick and steamy read. Features a protective cowboy, a heartwarming family reunion, and a dash of hurt mixed with heaps of comfort. Ends with a HEA. No cheating or cliffhangers! Part of the His Blue Collar Man series. Each book is a standalone and may be read in any order.

Review

⭐⭐⭐⭐ Loved it 

I didn't know that an insta-love could be second chance romance, but apparently it can 🤭

This story combines the best features of those tropes, condensed into a short story that can be read in one sitting. 

Nate and Calder are the definition of sweet and tender romance, but enhanced. 

I was so glad they were able to have a much-needed conversation, even though it was 10 years later, and while I didn't like that Nate ran away without giving Cal a chance to consider his proposal, I also understand that maybe that wasn't the time for them; Nate needed to live his dream, although of course, it was wrong that he left without saying goodbye.

Valentine's Day With the Veteran

 

Details

Everything has a price. Even love. Teddy is willing to pay whatever it takes to turn Romeo from a bratty playboy to his sweetheart.

A possessive soldier. A mouthy marine. They risked life and limb serving their country overseas, but on the loveliest holiday of the year these former military men are sending their hearts to the front line.

Teddy grew up in a blue-star family. He followed in the bootprints of his forefathers by enlisting and spent two decades as an Army Ranger. When an injury cut his career short, Teddy dedicated his life to helping his brothers-in-arms by leading a veteran support group.

He’s never met anybody more in need of his help than Romeo, a certified gay disaster and so freshly discharged from the sandbox he still has moon dust behind his ears. Stubborn. Sassy. As a Marine Scout Sniper, Romeo was trained to take out bad guys with headshots, but since re-entering civilian life he’s only interested in finding disrespectful men that’ll take him to bed.

When their local VA hosts a bachelor auction and Romeo jumps onto the block, Teddy seizes the opportunity to bid on the wild younger man. He’ll do more than win Romeo as his dream date. Teddy will make that boy clean up his act and then make Romeo his boy. Forever.

Overview

Valentine’s Day With the Veteran by Shiloh Swift is an instalove holiday romance. This is a quick and steamy read. Features an older man who knows best, a younger man begging to be put in his place, a charity auction for a good cause, and a romantic trip in the great outdoors to a cozy cabin. Ends with a HEA. No cheating or cliffhangers! Part of the His Blue Collar Man series. Each book is a standalone and may be read in any order.

Review

⭐⭐⭐⭐ This book was heart breaking 🥺

I was in tears since Romeo came along. He is a lost boy, in a swirl of self-destructive behaviors. But luckily for him Teddy came to the But luckily for him Teddy came to the rescue. 🤩

Teddy is, indeed, a teddy bear: big, protective, loving, kind. He is exactly what Romeo needs. ❤️‍🔥

I loved the story. 

I loved how they met and how their relationship developed.

Belonging to the Bull Rider

 

Details

Buck is a man that never gives up...he’s not giving up on Kit.

An injury at a bull riding competition ropes these two men into a long-awaited reunion and gives them a second go-round at love. Are they willing to tie the knot on a lifelong commitment to each other?

Buck: Showy. Domineering. Bull rider.

A ride or die rodeo cowboy and aging champion. The only thing Buck enjoys more than riding bulls is showing younger men how to ride him. He puts aside the buckle bunnies when he falls head over heels for Kit, a fellow bull rider and rising star in rodeo. After a passionate night together, Buck professes his enduring love and hankering to keep Kit as his partner forever…

Kit: Snarky. Jaded. Former medic.

A rookie bull riding champion that gave it all up…and ran away from the love of his life. After being disowned by his family for being gay, Kit walked away from rodeo and marched into the army. When he returns to his home state of Texas after an honorable discharge, the last person he expects to see is Buck. Or to receive such a warm welcome from the older cowboy.

After Buck suffers a tragic accident, Kit is voluntold into being Buck’s caretaker. He’s ready, able, and willing to look after Buck as the older cowboy recovers from his injuries, but is Kit prepared to confront his past and finally accept Buck’s love?

Overview

Belonging to the Bull Rider by Shiloh Swift is an instalove age gap romance. This is a quick and steamy read featuring a possessive cowboy, a first time under the open sky, a dose of hurt followed by ample comfort, and a second chance at true love on the rodeo circuit. Ends with a HEA. No cheating or cliffhangers! Part of the His Blue Collar Man series. Each book is a standalone and may be read in any order.

Review

⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4.5 I loved it

This is definitely my favorite book in the series. I felt it more genuine, I connected better with the characters. Overall I think this story is the best in the series.

Bulk is a giant marshmallow, he knows what he wants and has the maturity and patience to wait for it and even though his boy left without explanation he did not bother and waited patiently and clearly his patience was rewarded.

They both love each other intensely and care about each other, they are super cute. 🤩❤️ 🔥😍

On the other hand, I was left curious about Bulk's friend, Tucker... I want to know what his story is, where his boy is and what he will do to get him back. I hope that in the future a book about him will come out 🔮🙏

Rescued by the Ranger

 

Details

Ray is a man who knows what he wants…and he wants Tommy.

The storm of the century will bring them together and strike up a love that will last forever. But only if these two men are willing to open up their hearts while braving floodwaters.

Ray: Protective. Bold. Passionate. Forest ranger.

A cowboy’s spirit in the body of a mountain man. Ray spends his days guarding his native Kentucky’s wilderness and his nights patrolling the local gay bar. He’s at home in the woods and at ease with his interest in other men, but Ray has never found the right younger man to share his life with. Not until he meets Tommy.

Tommy: Loner. Stubborn. Broken. Former soldier.

A combat veteran haunted by the shots he took overseas. Tommy came back from the war with his body intact, but his mind cracked. And his heart in pieces. Unable to adjust to civilian life, he’s taken to camping to escape a world that’s too bright, too loud, and too…tempting. Tommy would rather spend his life alone than risk falling for another man.

But as Tommy finds himself the target of larger than life Ranger Ray’s advances, he struggles not to ask and tell this older man his secrets – both the dark and dirty ones…

Overview

Rescued by the Ranger by Shiloh Swift is an instalove age gap romance. This is quick and steamy read featuring a possessive forest ranger, a grumpy camper, a lovable dog in distress, a heart-pounding rescue, and a swoon-worthy first time in a cabin. Ends with a HEA. No cheating or cliffhangers! Part of the His Blue Collar Man series. Each book is a standalone and may be read in any order.

Review

⭐⭐⭐ Good

It was a light read, straight to the point. At times I felt that, even for an instalove, things between Tommy and Ray happened a little too quickly. 

But like I said, it's good to hang out. 

The author delivers what she promises: Ray is protective, kind, and understanding and has every intention of taking care of Tommy, not because Tommy can't take care of himself, but because there's no need for him to do it alone, not when Ray is there to accompany him. ❤️‍🔥❤️‍🔥❤️‍🔥