Please note the Trigger Warnings and Content Warnings before reading this book. Full review can be found at Bookcaseandcoffee.com
I loved this latest Please note the Trigger Warnings and Content Warnings before reading this book. Full review can be found at Bookcaseandcoffee.com
I loved this latest addition to the Boston Hawks Hockey series. The Defender is James Ryan and Bella Matthews’s story. The emotions of this book are so big. The love in this story is overwhelming and all encompassing. The author has been teasing James’s story to us in the last few books and I could not wait to see who was going to bring love and light into his world. Single dad to twins Milly and Mason James lost his wife and first love to cancer 2 years previous. The Defender is a romance that shows the power of love and how loving the right person can truly heal your soul. It has been a long time that a book has left such a huge mark on my heart. This is book that shows us that your soul mate is who guards and protects your heart but is also the person who can hurt it the most.
TW/CW: Grief, Loss of spouse, Loss of Pregnancy, past domestic abuse, anxiety/depression, divorce.
Merged review:
Please note the Trigger Warnings and Content Warnings before reading this book. Full review can be found at Bookcaseandcoffee.com
I loved this latest addition to the Boston Hawks Hockey series. The Defender is James Ryan and Bella Matthews’s story. The emotions of this book are so big. The love in this story is overwhelming and all encompassing. The author has been teasing James’s story to us in the last few books and I could not wait to see who was going to bring love and light into his world. Single dad to twins Milly and Mason James lost his wife and first love to cancer 2 years previous. The Defender is a romance that shows the power of love and how loving the right person can truly heal your soul. It has been a long time that a book has left such a huge mark on my heart. This is book that shows us that your soul mate is who guards and protects your heart but is also the person who can hurt it the most.
TW/CW: Grief, Loss of spouse, Loss of Pregnancy, past domestic abuse, anxiety/depression, divorce....more
Hockey Wife by Kate Meader is a delightful mix of steam, heart, and humor that I absolutely devoured. This accidentally married in Vegas, marriage of Hockey Wife by Kate Meader is a delightful mix of steam, heart, and humor that I absolutely devoured. This accidentally married in Vegas, marriage of convenience story between hockey veteran Dylan "Banks" Bankowski and socialite Georgia Goodwin is full of all the best romance tropes—grumpy x sunshine, forced proximity, only one bed, and, of course, those perfect "my wife" moments.
Georgia was such a surprise! She’s smart, funny, and dealing with a lot beneath the surface. Her struggle with grief and finding her place in the world made her journey incredibly relatable. And Banks? Not just a mama’s boy! He’s carrying the weight of the world on his shoulders, especially with what might be his final season in the NHL. His connection with Georgia is electric, and their chemistry just jumps off the page.
What I loved most was how real their relationship felt as they moved from "this is just pretend" to something so much deeper. The way they complemented each other made their romance so satisfying.
If you're into hockey romance with a dash of accidental marriage and some truly swoon-worthy moments, Hockey Wife will hit all the right notes....more
Series: Manhattan Ruthless (Standalone) Tropes: Billionaire, Marriage of Convenience Micro-Trope: My Wife POV: Dual, 1st person CW/TW: Mentions of miscarrSeries: Manhattan Ruthless (Standalone) Tropes: Billionaire, Marriage of Convenience Micro-Trope: My Wife POV: Dual, 1st person CW/TW: Mentions of miscarriage
I really enjoyed Broken! The chemistry between Nathan and Melanie was electric, and the angst kept me hooked. Melanie’s desire to belong and be loved was heartfelt, and her interactions with Nathan’s brothers were a highlight. I just wish we had more insight into her mindset, especially after all she went through.
Nathan had some over-the-top moments, but his groveling was satisfying, and his love for Melanie shone through in the end. Overall, a steamy and emotional read with just the right amount of drama. If you enjoy marriage-of-convenience romances, this is worth checking out!
I struggled to get into Cross Roads, and almost DNF’d it due to boredom. The pacing felt uneven, largely because of the flashback chapters2.5/5 Stars
I struggled to get into Cross Roads, and almost DNF’d it due to boredom. The pacing felt uneven, largely because of the flashback chapters, which I’m not a fan of, but they were short enough to tolerate. The story lacked the tension and desire I expect in a second-chance romance, and the chemistry between the characters felt off and robotic.
While I appreciated the female lead being in a position of power, the dynamic was uncomfortable due to deception and miscommunication. The resolution in the last 5% was rushed and jarring, leaving some issues unresolved, especially with West’s father. However, I enjoyed the last half of the book and ended up rooting for West and Indya. Their happy ending was satisfying, but the book as a whole didn’t wow me.
I'm not a fan of Devney Perry’s romantic scenes. They are awkward and do not seem to flow into the story, almost like two different people wrote them.
Overall, Cross Roads leaned more on vibes than stakes, making it an okay read but not one I’d highly recommend....more
As my first read by Lana Ferguson, "The Game Changer" fell short for me. Delilah's long-standing crush on Ian made her seem desperate, while Ian's sloAs my first read by Lana Ferguson, "The Game Changer" fell short for me. Delilah's long-standing crush on Ian made her seem desperate, while Ian's slow realization of his feelings felt juvenile. Ian's secrecy and overly friendly relationship with his ex-wife were frustrating, and Delilah's constant self-doubt was disheartening. The story lost momentum once the main characters got together, and the conflict felt contrived. On the plus side, the steamy scenes were well-executed.
Overall, it had potential but didn't quite hit the mark....more
Sawyer Bennett's "Forbidden" is a captivating enemies-to-lovers romance set in Kentucky's bourbon empire. Gabriel Mardraggon, the determined heir to MSawyer Bennett's "Forbidden" is a captivating enemies-to-lovers romance set in Kentucky's bourbon empire. Gabriel Mardraggon, the determined heir to Mardraggon Enterprises, clashes with the carefree and mischievous Katherine Blackburn, a horse trainer from a rival family. Their contrasting personalities and family feud create an electric tension that's both humorous and compelling.
The audiobook, narrated by Kit Swann and Sean Masters, enhances the story with their excellent dual narration, bringing depth and emotion to Gabe and Kat's journey. The second chance romance is well-executed, reflecting their growth since college and the maturity needed to navigate family pressures.
The underlying suspense, driven by Gabe's father's decisions, adds freshness and urgency to the narrative. With quick pacing and an all-consuming storyline, "Forbidden" is a heartwarming and thrilling read.
A must-read for fans of enemies-to-lovers and second-chance romances, "Forbidden" blends romance and suspense seamlessly....more
Hold Me Until Morning, the fourth book in A.L. Jackson's Time River series, explores the romance between jaded single mom Hailey and her flirty, cockyHold Me Until Morning, the fourth book in A.L. Jackson's Time River series, explores the romance between jaded single mom Hailey and her flirty, cocky cowboy neighbor Cody. Hailey returns to town with her young daughter and lands her dream job, only to find her teenage crush now works with her and lives next door.
While the story is engaging, Cody's extreme fixation on Hailey's body felt excessive and detracted from his character, giving off fetish vibes. The portrayal of the children also felt repetitive compared to previous books in the series. However, the audiobook performance by Erin Mallon and Stephen Dexter was excellent despite some audio quality issues. Overall, it's a decent read but not without its flaws.
**Reckless Trust**, the second book in Nyssa Kathryn's Reckless series, is a gripping small-town roma**Reckless Trust by Nyssa Kathryn**
*Rating: ★★★★☆
**Reckless Trust**, the second book in Nyssa Kathryn's Reckless series, is a gripping small-town romance filled with suspense and emotional depth. Tilly Taylor returns to Misty Peak after her mother's death, only to face the town's animosity due to her father's past crimes. As she becomes a suspect in a theft and murder, Kayden Walker, whose family was also wronged by Tilly's father, steps in to protect her. Their journey is fraught with distrust and budding affection.
Nyssa Kathryn's engaging writing style and vivid descriptions make the story and characters come alive. The hostile atmosphere of Misty Peak is balanced by the supportive Harper and Walker families, adding complexity to the narrative. **Reckless Trust** is a well-written, romantic suspense that hooks you from the start and leaves you eager for more. A solid 4-star read that has me looking forward to exploring the rest of the series....more
"Show 'em How" by Jami Davenport is the second book in the Bang Brothers series, focusing on Jakob, a professional hockey player, and Gardenia, a nann"Show 'em How" by Jami Davenport is the second book in the Bang Brothers series, focusing on Jakob, a professional hockey player, and Gardenia, a nanny with a past connection to Jakob. Six months after a one-night stand, Jakob needs a nanny for his twins, and Gardenia is the best option. Despite their unresolved attraction, they agree to a three-month arrangement.
Overall, "Show 'em How" is an angsty, steamy, and well-written contemporary sports romance. The dynamic between Jakob and Gardenia keeps the reader hooked, and the heartfelt moments with Jakob's twins make it even more endearing. A must-read for fans of single dad romance with a unique heroine....more
"Restraint" by Mari Carr kicks off the Stingrays Hockey series with a fun and quick read that blends neighbors/close proximity and friends-to-lovers t"Restraint" by Mari Carr kicks off the Stingrays Hockey series with a fun and quick read that blends neighbors/close proximity and friends-to-lovers tropes.
Erika, an ER doctor, and Blake, a carefree hockey player, navigate their evolving friendship when they decide to co-parent a stray dog. Despite their agreement to keep things platonic, sparks fly and feelings deepen, leading to jealousy and unexpected realizations about their relationship.
Pros:
Engaging characters with a humorous and light-hearted dynamic. Unique premise involving co-parenting a dog. Entertaining exploration of friendship turning into something more. Cons:
Pacing occasionally slows with scenes that don’t advance the plot. Limited depth in secondary characters like Erika’s love interest, Doug. Single POV narration leaves some character motivations less explored. Overall, "Restraint" is a charming start to the series, perfect for fans of hockey romances looking for a quick and enjoyable read. While it didn’t fully meet my expectations, I’m curious to see where the Stingrays Hockey series goes next....more
As a fan of sports romances, I was excited to dive into *The Art of Catching Feelings*. However, it didn't quite hit the mark for me. The story revolvAs a fan of sports romances, I was excited to dive into *The Art of Catching Feelings*. However, it didn't quite hit the mark for me. The story revolves around Daphne and Chris, whose relationship develops quickly through text messages. This felt rushed and unconvincing.
Daphne’s choices, especially her prolonged deception, were frustrating and created a moral dilemma. The overload of texting conversations became monotonous, detracting from the narrative. While Alicia Thompson’s writing style is engaging, the core premise didn’t resonate with me.
Despite these issues, the book was readable and well-written. Fans of the deception trope might enjoy this more....more
The book starts strong but struggles to maintain interest. While the characters are likeable, their actions often seem immature. The plot drags, with The book starts strong but struggles to maintain interest. While the characters are likeable, their actions often seem immature. The plot drags, with big secrets revealed too late to be impactful, and the forbidden step-sibling relationship doesn't feel genuinely taboo. On the plus side, the intimate scenes are well-written. Despite its flaws, it's a decent read....more
"If You Want Me" by Helena Hunting is a swoon-worthy hockey romance that hits all the right notes. This second installment in the Toronto Terror Serie"If You Want Me" by Helena Hunting is a swoon-worthy hockey romance that hits all the right notes. This second installment in the Toronto Terror Series delivers on secret relationships, forbidden love, and the irresistible tension of an age gap between the team's unofficial princess, Aurora, and her dad's best friend and teammate, Hollis.
Aurora is a strong, ambitious heroine, and her chemistry with Hollis is electric, filled with hilarious banter and heartfelt moments. While the story is a bit long, the pacing keeps you hooked, and every twist feels satisfying. The audiobook, narrated by Zachary Webber and Stella Bloom, is a standout, making this story even more immersive.
Overall, "If You Want Me" is a delightful mix of humor, heart, and heat—perfect for fans of sports romance....more
"Her Greatest Mistake" by Hannah Cowen is a captivating second chance, childhood friends-to-lovers romance that kicks off the Greatest LovRating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
"Her Greatest Mistake" by Hannah Cowen is a captivating second chance, childhood friends-to-lovers romance that kicks off the Greatest Lover Series. NHL star Maddox reunites with his childhood best friend, Braxton, as his fake girlfriend to save his reputation. The chemistry between them is electric, with sharp banter and deep emotional tension. Braxton's character is refreshingly real, with well-handled fat representation. While Maddox's transition from fake to real love feels a bit rushed, their journey is compelling. The audiobook, narrated by CJ Bloom and Teddy Hamilton, adds extra charm. Overall, it's an enjoyable read with heartwarming romance and well-crafted characters.
Whiskey Secrets by Carrie Ann Ryan kicks off the Whiskey and Lies series with a close proximity co-workers romance. Former cop Dare Collins is furiousWhiskey Secrets by Carrie Ann Ryan kicks off the Whiskey and Lies series with a close proximity co-workers romance. Former cop Dare Collins is furious when his parents hire Kenzie Owens to run the Old Whiskey Inn without consulting him. As he gets to know her, he realizes her demons run as deep as his, and their attraction grows. With Dare's young son and Kenzie’s ex complicating things, can they find their happily ever after?
Dare is broody and intense, while Kenzie is sweet yet strong. The action and suspense felt a bit forced, but the audiobook by Gregory Salinas was well done. Overall, a solid start to the series and a great introduction to Carrie Ann Ryan's storytelling....more
Where We Started by Ashley Munoz is a second-chance romance featuring childhood friends Wesley Ryan and Callie Stone. Set in a small Virginia town, CaWhere We Started by Ashley Munoz is a second-chance romance featuring childhood friends Wesley Ryan and Callie Stone. Set in a small Virginia town, Callie returns home after seven years to face her past, including her tumultuous relationship with Wesley, now the club's MC.
The book captures the intense, toxic nature of their relationship, and I appreciated their struggle to heal old wounds. However, the story fell short in truly resolving their past and making their second chance feel plausible. The use of flashbacks, particularly only from Wes's point of view for the first half, made it hard to connect with them as a couple in the present.
The time flips to their childhood were nostalgic but rushed through crucial moments, leaving the mystery and suspense elements underdeveloped. Despite these issues, the narrative is engaging, and I can see why it’s recommended.
The audiobook, performed by Lauren Ezzo and Bradley Ford, was exceptionally well done. Bradley's gritty voice added a layer of personality to the characters, while Lauren encompassed the sweetness and determination of Callie's character perfectly.
Overall, a 3.5-star read for fans of gritty second-chance romances....more
Where We Belong by Ashley Munoz is an instant connection romance featuring Killian Quinn and Laura Witt. Despite their different backgrounds and shareWhere We Belong by Ashley Munoz is an instant connection romance featuring Killian Quinn and Laura Witt. Despite their different backgrounds and shared childhood traumas, their relationship is complicated yet compelling.
Killian, the new president of the Stone Riders MC, and Laura, connected to the club through Callie, have great chemistry but initially lack a deep connection. Killian's hot and cold behavior made it hard to understand his true feelings, adding to the tension.
The frequent flashbacks felt unnecessary, detracting from the present story. Despite this, I enjoyed this book more than the first. The characters were meant for each other and grew through their connection.
The audiobook, performed by Isabelle Turner and Chase T. Walker, was exceptional and added depth to the story.
Overall, a solid read with complex characters and strong chemistry. ...more
"Lights Camera Passion" delves into the lives of actors Jacoby and Roman, cast as gay lovers in a Hollywood movie. Both men harbor secret crushes and "Lights Camera Passion" delves into the lives of actors Jacoby and Roman, cast as gay lovers in a Hollywood movie. Both men harbor secret crushes and face a major miscommunication that hinders their relationship.
Jacoby, 29, is a deeply closeted gay man, while Roman, 24, is a bisexual man open to coming out. Their past is fraught with misunderstandings, primarily Jacoby believing Roman made homophobic remarks. This miscommunication felt like an unnecessary plot device.
The book starts slow, with a significant lack of chemistry between Jacoby and Roman for the first half. They felt like cardboard cutouts with no real attraction. However, after the 60% mark, their relationship gains some sensuality and depth.
The latter part of the book showcases better banter and emotional growth. Jacoby and Roman's supportive relationships with their sisters add depth, and their mature handling of jealousy issues is commendable.
The first half's lack of chemistry was a major drawback. It was hard to differentiate between their points of view due to similar narrative voices. The dialogue often felt unnatural, and the author tended to tell rather than show emotions
Despite its flaws, the public coming out scene was meaningful, emphasizing respect and privacy. "Lights Camera Passion" eventually offers a worthwhile exploration of trust and romance, but it requires patience to navigate the slow start....more
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