More Than My Words by Ann Lister

REVIEWED BY 

Joanne Swinney 

More Than My Words by Ann Lister
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I have a special place in my heart for this series. The guards that have The Rock Gods backs are turning out to be just as beautiful with a burning passion that sets the pages alight.

Mason Foxworth was severely burnt while protecting The Rock Gods during their time on tour. He’s determined to get back on his feet and return to work. Whilst Doctors believed his leg to be too damaged, Mason wouldn’t let it stop him from living his life just as he always had. With pure grit and determination Mason fights everyday to take back his life.

Tessler an Author with an alias, well…. I know a few of them. It seems that Authors tend to write under different names when delving into other genres. There is an air of mystery about him that definitely needs to be uncovered. They do say it’s always the quiet ones to watch out for. Like many people has a past, his a little more colourful than most.

I’m looking forward to reading Tessler’s journal to find out exactly what, how and when he did the things he has spoken about. It sounds highly erotic, a little on the naughty side, but who doesn’t like a little bit of naughty?

Mason strikes up a friendship with Tessler, actually I’m not sure who befriends who first. I think it’s both. The first introductions are always the worst. Poor Mason who is normally a self assured man isn’t coming off all that well put together.

Tessler’s past catches up with him in the form of his ex agent. The man sounds vile and needs to crawl back under the rock he came from. Mason goes into protective mode, but Tessler isn’t about to be pushed around either.

With two hotties steaming up my kindle it was constantly plugged into the mains until the story was over. Mason and Tessler are just as delicious as the cover suggests.

This story was well worth the wait and I looked forward to reading so much more from this Author.

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Baby Daddy by Kendall Ryan

REVIEWED BY

Tina Shobe

Baby Daddy by Kendall Ryan
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Jenna has decided to become a single mom. She meets Emmett when they are trapped in an elevator on her way to her appointment at a sperm bank. Something made her open up to Emmett on her plans. He not only convinces her to go out to dinner with him but also to allow him to be her baby daddy. He can give her something she really wants without becoming an active father and she can have a baby she desperately wants without the complications of an involved father could possibly bring.

I loved how they started with just the pregnancy plan but slowly ended up developing a friendship. Both of them wanting to take their relationship to a deeper level but leery on taking that step. They connect on so many levels that from a reader stand point it was just a matter of time till they fell in love with each other.

Also as a reader you know that their present is about to collide and possibly ruin any future they have. As I'm reading along in the back of my mind I'm chanting to Emmett that he needs to tell her the name of her company. I'm trying to head off any misunderstandings.

I also love that we get to visit with their future. Love!!!

Baby Daddy is the first book I have read by Kendall Ryan and I glad to say I am now a follower and look forward to reading more of her books.

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Baby Maker by P.Dangelico

REVIEWED BY

Micky Barnard 

Baby Maker by P. Dangelico
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

3.5 stars

I’m a huge fan of some of P Dangelico’s previous books, namely Wrecking Ball and so any book by her piques my interest. I’ve always liked convenience relationships that evolve into more, so as the title suggests, there’s a baby to be made.

“You realise we have an appointment with the doctor, right?
“Yes, ma’am. We’re making baby soup today.”

The heroine, Stella is on a mission. Finding the baby daddy is hard work. Dane the chosen one, is not hard to look at, however.

“There’s so much razzle dazzle there to take in, my mind locks onto one area. His abdominal muscles.”

Dane was incorrigible in a totally endearing way. He was frank, in a two big feet first kind of way that was hilarious and cringey. Dane and Stella couldn’t be more different but there was definitely chemistry there and over time, Dane really won me over with his heart.

BABY MAKER has so much in the way of excellent dialogue and funny lines that I highlighted a lot, so why isn’t my rating higher? Well, it took me at least till 25% to really get into the story and I had difficulty liking the heroine. I found her somewhat severe and so rigid that she was prickly to get to know and this was in contrast to the completed openness of Dane. I didn’t ever quite get swept away by the book as a whole but the writing was so good. Although I’m not sure this is pitched as a rom-com, to me, it was all that and will appeal to fans of this sub-genre.

I voluntarily read an early copy of this book.

Reviewed for Jo&IsaLoveBooks Blog.

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Brooklynaire by Sarina Bowen

REVIEWED BY 

Melinda Lazar 

Brooklynaire by Sarina Bowen
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Brooklynaire by Sarina Bowen

Oh my GOD.

You know how you occasionally read a series and there’s a particular couple who *need* to get together and the goddamn author takes their sweet time making it happen and YOU READ EVERY SINGLE BOOK in the meantime for just a glimpse of the two characters, fully aware you won’t get their story for a good while?? Well, surprise! That was me with Nate, Becca, and Brooklynaire. I don’t think I have ever been so eager for a couple to get together as I was for these two!

Becca has been working for Nate for seven long years and they’ve built a great friendship. While there’s been a secret attraction at some point on both their parts, they’ve both managed to keep it locked down and professional and no one was any the wiser. Don’t get me wrong, there was none of this longing from afar business. No no, they were both happy and fulfilled with their lives. Things change when Becca is injured and Nate takes it upon himself to look after her and ensure she’s getting the help she needs, insisting that she move in with him to get some proper rest. I want to make a sleazy remark here, but honestly, Nate was just so adorable and caring that it was a genuine offer on his part!

What did I love about this book? ABSOLUTELY EVERYTHING! I adored both Becca and Nate so very much. Their romance is built on friendship and trust and palindromes. Nate is everything you could possible want in a hero: he’s smart, savvy, not a nasty bone in his body (but man, his body!!), has a huge bank account and an even huger heart. And let’s not forget his adorable awkwardness! And Becca was just awesome as well: she had a few hang-ups about being less than in comparison to Nate’s intellect and money, but her gorgeous personality never failed to come through. I love that she wasn’t willing to risk everything she’d worked so hard for, for a little affair and I appreciate that she took the time to think things through.

I love Nate and Becca so so much that I’m going to shamelessly beg for a novella. I *need* more of them! In case my review is vague I’ll reiterate, is my absolute favorite book of the series (possibly fave of Bowen’s) and I am so thankful that it delivered on everything I was hoping for. This entire series is a must read.

*arc received in exchange for honest review.

**Reviewed by Melinda for Joandisalovebooks Blog.

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Cake: The Newlyweds by J. Bengtsson

REVIEWED BY

Monique Cashmere 

Cake: The Newlyweds by J. Bengtsson
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

If you haven’t started this series yet, it is really best to go back to the start and do a binge read of all four books. Sometimes it is the best way to get the full effect of everything going on. This one especially because you will want to experience how these two fell in love before they actually become newlyweds.

I am glad that there was a fourth book to bring the series to an end and have it come full circle, starting where it all began, at a wedding. To me it was like I was attending a family gathering. I was excited to catch up with these characters again and to see what they had been up to. And with every family shindig, you are delighted to see the clan, compare tales, some a little long winded than others, but when the event comes to a close, and you don’t want it to finish. You want to cling on and not ever say goodbye.

I am also glad with how it all wrapped up. Little snippets of the siblings was fun to see, and mostly had me giggling, especially if it was about Kyle. Love him and Kenzie brings another side to his persona. I think I was most glad that Jake found some peace with his demons and this can only be positive with his future with Casey. I have no idea what is next for this author, but I know I’ll want to read it.

*I am grateful for the copy provided by the author for my honest opinion.
**Reviewed by Monique for JoandIsaLoveBooksBlog.

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At the Stroke of Midnight by Tara Sivec

REVIEWED BY 

Melinda Lazar 

At the Stroke of Midnight by Tara Sivec
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

At the Stroke of Midnight (The Naughty Princess Club #1) by Tara Sivec
4-4.5*


What a wonderful and hilarious start to a brand new series! At the Stroke of Midnight introduces us to three very different women: Cynthia (aka Cin aka Cinderella), Ariel (fairly self-explanatory), and Isabelle (aka Belle) who come together to right the (financial) issues in their lives and start a business together. After attending what they thought was a children’s birthday party in their best fairytale attire and being mistaken for strippers, the business they decide to start is for fairytale strippers - who knew there’d be such a niche?! Apparently, Sivec knew! They go to Charming's strip club to learn the tricks of the trade and that’s where Cynthia has her THIRD encounter with PJ: the first when she fainted and he caught her in his arms and the second being when she turned up for his birthday!

I loved all the characters in this book so much. I loved PJ Charming: he really lived up to his name. A sexy, sweet, nice guy - how many men do you know who’d open up a strip-club solely for single mothers and happily accommodates their and their children’s needs? Cin needed a good shaking and someone to assist with her pole-in-her-butt syndrome. Who better to assist than the absolutely crass Ariel and the timid yet full of interesting facts, Belle? No one. They, along with PJ, helped Cin to see herself as more than just the PTA mom and chair of the homeowners association. They collectively helped her get in touch with sexy side and to stop hiding behind her bland ensembles. They were such an incredibly unlikely combination group of women to ever have formed a friendship but they complemented each other and showed support in some interesting ways!

It’s been a long, long while since I’ve read Sivec and her brand of humor can be a hit or miss for me. I’m so thankful that At the Stroke of Midnight was a hit! I laughed throughout and while I can’t deny enjoying the romantic aspects of it, what I enjoyed the most was the celebration of friendship and female solidarity. My only real gripe if you can call it that is, considering that Cin is a single mother, I would have liked a bit more of her daughter throughout the story rather than the little that was interspersed. The set-ups for the following books have me so very excited to read those and I’ll be refreshing netgalley repeatedly until they pop-up!

*arc received from netgalley in exchange for honest review.

**Reviewed by Melinda for Joandisalovebooks Blog.

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Consequence by Rachel Higginson

REVIEWED BY

Micky Barnard 

Consequence by Rachel Higginson
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

3.5 stars

I’m not normally drawn to mobster-type stories but CONSTANT got under my skin and pulled me in, so I was ready to read the completion in CONSEQUENCE. This is a fast-paced culmination, picking up from the abrupt ending of CONSTANT and diving into the distraught emotions of Sayer and Caroline.

The angst was pretty unrelenting in this story, apart from the rather confusing ability of Caro to distract herself from the chaos and emotion of (view spoiler)[ her lost child. I couldn’t really buy into this both during the kidnapping and immediately afterwards. (hide spoiler)] All that said, Sayer and Caro had chemistry, it was undeniable but it was an unsettled chemistry with lots of unanswered emotional questions between the pair. I think this was the reason I couldn’t look away from these two even when I didn’t agree with or understand their actions.

Sayer and Juliet just went ahead and melted my heart. Despite who Sayer was, I needed their meeting and their acceptance of one another. I actually wanted more of these two in the book.

Sayer stared at her, his eyes turning glossy with unshed tears.

“You know, I thought I should ask. My dad never asked me if anything was okay. I thought it would be nice to give you the choice.”

I found myself a little less interested in The Bratva intrigue in this book and it was a scary world to be existing in with a family. Bratva was supposed to be family and even in the face of both Sayer and Caroline having awful families, Bratva was not any kind of substitute.

The ending was a little rushed but I enjoyed the duology as a whole, with CONSTANT really standing out as my favourite.

I voluntarily read an early copy of this book.

Reviewed for Jo&IsaLoveBooks Blog.

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Memphis by Ginger Scott

REVIEWED BY 

Melinda Lazar 

Memphis by Ginger Scott
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Memphis by Ginger Scott
3.5*

Memphis and Olivia meet when Olivia returns home with her tail between her legs. ‘Home’ is the last place she wants to be, surrounded by all the toxicity of her family but she been left with no money and no choice. Memphis is a fighter: the one thing Olivia promised herself she’d never get involved with but the simmering attraction between them can’t be put aside. Memphis has his own set of issues: becoming a fighter and striving to be the best to make a dead man proud are at the top of the list and between Memphis and Olivia, the list is rather extensive.

I enjoyed this book and the main characters very much. However, I truly hated some of the secondary characters (which I was supposed to)! Olivia’s mother was just awful - perhaps even evil - in her treatment of Olivia and Memphis and in her actions both present and past. Unfortunately, her father and uncle weren’t that much better. How she survived and became the person she is, is beyond me. Everything about Memphis just made my heart ache. Such a good, kind, generous person and surrounded by these vipers ahhh! I just wanted to scream!

I’ve read a few of Scott’s books and enjoyed them immensely. While I liked this one as well, there was something missing that would take it from like to love but I can’t put my finger on what exactly it was. Maybe it just didn’t pack the punch I’ve come to expect from Scott. Nonetheless, this was a great, solid read and I probably will reread down the track to see if I can pinpoint what was missing.

*arc received in exchange for honest review.

**Reviewed by Melinda for Joandisalovebooks Blog.



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Easy by Donna Alam

REVIEWED BY 

Becky Cox 

Easy by Donna Alam
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Hilarious romcom with sexy Scottish and British accents. Yes, that’s right, pretty much perfect. I will never eat a plum again without giggling or blushing.

Alam’s characters are just wonderful. You want to be friends with them. They remind you of one of your friends. Dang it, they are all just hilarious. The secondary characters, no matter how brief their appearance, leave a lasting impression.

Will is simply wonderful. Yes, he has some faults but his cleverness and cheekiness make him irresistible. His accent and looks don’t hurt. He has mastered the art of naughty talk.

Sadie is your friend, your neighbor or you. Sweet, a tad naive, loyal and a great friend. Sure she is pretty but that’s the least of it. She tends to don her rose colored glasses. A great heroine that you can’t help but love. She stiffens her spine when necessary and shows her spunk.

Couldn’t have loved this more.

I received a copy in exchange for an honest review.

Reviewed by Becky for JoandIsaLoveBooks

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Wanderlust by Lauren Blakely Narrated by Grace Grant and Richard Armitage

REVIEWED BY 

Micky Barnard

Wanderlust by Lauren Blakely
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

4.5 stars

This audio thrilled me from the first whisper of the narrators, to the end of the epilogue. I am going to have to start with the narration because I am simply bursting with praise for it. Having Richard Armitage narrate was a coup, he acted Griffin so perfectly with banter and emotions. The chemistry he brought to the character was just superb. It so happens that Grace Grant is my favourite female narrator so this coupling was perfection to me. Absolute 5 stars for narration and how this dual POV worked together.

WANDERLUST is a great story, less romantic comedy than some of Lauren Blakely’s other audios and that made it all the more special in my eyes, because it felt different. Joy is a fragrance chemist new to Paris and a translator, Griffin is hired to do just that, translate. They meet serendipitously before becoming colleagues and their chemistry goes bang. The story is totally engaging with depth of direction and character. The gradual move friendship and beyond was believable with nothing instantaneous about it.

This is easily my favourite Lauren Blakely book and audio. This is the kind of audio I will re-listen to and with this kind of narration I would encourage picking up the audiobook as first choice in terms of format. I recommend this to each and every one of my romance loving book friends.

I voluntarily listened to an early copy of this audiobook.

Reviewed for Jo&IsaLoveBooks Blog.

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Of Ash and Spirit: A Curse Keepers Novel by D.G. Swank

REVIEWED BY

Monique Cashmere 

Of Ash and Spirit: A Curse Keepers Novel by D.G. Swank
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Have you read the Curse Keepers? OMGosh, if you have, you’re going to love this new series. If not, this is a standalone book, and you won’t feel lost in anyway reading it. It is sort like the cousin to the original series, but a whole new cast to discover.

Now I am normally a Rom-Com reader, I enjoy lots of laughs but I am also a Denise Grover Swank fan. There is something with her books they ties them together giving you the same feeling about them. I think it is the way she writes her characters, they are colorful and rich, stimulating and full of depth. Some are more sassy than others, some more wit and some are badass like Piper Lancaster. I am not going to giveaway and spoilers here, but know that you don’t even have to be a follower of Urban Fantasy to love this book/series.
It will enchant you from the very beginning and keep you magnetized till the end. I especially enjoyed the medium side to Piper, as this is something I wish I could do. I am so looking forward to book two and where Piper is heading.

*I am grateful for the copy provided by the author for my honest opinion.
**Reviewed by Monique for JoandIsaLoveBooksBlog.

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Here With You by JJ Harper

REVIEWED BY 

Joanne Swinney 

Here Without You by JJ Harper
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This is book two from the series, Cooper’s Ridge. I would say that you could enjoy this book reading it as a standalone, but I would encourage anyone to read book one, Denver’s Calling first, simply because it’s a beautiful story that needs to be read.

J.J. Harper has done it again. I couldn’t put this book down. This Author had me on page one. I just knew this story was going to engross me.

Mallory and Archer were such a loving couple. They had their whole lives ahead of them together. Love, laughter and steamy sex sessions that would have kept them more than satisfied for years to come. And that would have happened if it hadn’t been for, Archer’s interfering mother. That woman is pure poison, hell is where she is headed that’s a certainty.

When Mallory builds a new life at Cooper’s Ridge he is heartbroken. And to be honest I was just as upset. I was taking this journey with both characters and literally felt my heart crack. I considered messaging the Author to ask her, why she did that? I’m sure she loves to receive fan mail. (inserted cheesy grin here).

Archer was just as broken and trying to rebuild his life since Mallory left. None of it makes sense, right? Well, all will become clear when you read.

Mallory now know as Carter to his friends in Cooper’s Ridge, decides to go on a date with Dan. He’s a good guy and a total hottie by all accounts why shouldn’t Carter go on a date with him. Life has to go on, right? I liked Dan, but the whole time I was crushed because of Archer.

It was a complicated turn of events that took place throughout this story, but if something is meant to be then it will be.

Archer decides to visit his friend in Cooper’s Ridge. Oh, Boy! Yeah, his friend is none other than Dan. Dan is dating Carter. Carter is Mallory who was in a serious relationship with Archer. I swear my heart was beating so fast I thought I was going to hyperventilate.

The climax to this story was just incredible. I didn’t ever want it to be over. Three men, three hearts with so much love to give. But considering the previous shattered lives what will happen is anyone’s guess. HA! I know, I know, but you don’t know, so I’m not going to tell you what I know. You’ll have to read and get in the know.

Tempted to read? Don’t even think twice. You love M/M Romance, right? Well, then go one click because baby this book will melt your heart and everything else below it.

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Secret Lucidity by E.K. Blair

REVIEWED BY

Monique Cashmere

Secret Lucidity by E.K. Blair
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

3.5*'s

I have so many intense feelings about this book, I am still trying to deal hours later. There are some books that take you not only on an emotional rollercoaster but also a moral one as well. I was torn between the two with this novel due to being a mum and also a lover of a good romance story. I am not sure if it was meant to be portrayed this way, but I was crossing back and forth from wanting them to get their HEA and morally wanting justice.

I have to say, the story line played out so much better than I was anticipating. Their predicament wasn't just swept under the carpet and not dealt with, it had an outcome that was realistic and believable. There was one aspect of the book that I wasn't a fan of, which was how the mother was characterised. I get she was grieving, and believe me, if it was my husband, I would be a total hot mess too - but it was the 180 degree turn around her persona had that felt out of place. Then she skipped back and forth when it suited. It all felt unbalanced to me.

I had so much empathy for Cam, my head was spinning with compassion for this poor girl. I wanted to hug her, at times I wanted to slap her, but mostly I wanted to heal her. She endured so much and to find solace in David made me essentially happy for them. He had issues of his own, that once he found love with Cam, seemed to help him make peace too. This is a forbidden tale of a student/teacher romance that deals with loss and the after effects of that.

*I am grateful for the copy provided by the author for my honest opinion.
**Reviewed by Monique for JoandIsaLoveBooksBlog.

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Saving Me by Sadie Allen

REVIEWED BY 

Becky Cox 

Saving Me by Sadie Allen
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Saving Me takes you back to high school and how difficult it is to deal with all the issues that we, as adults, forget. The pressure from parents, peers, and teachers. The inner struggles of coming of age and insecurity. The negative and positive effects our families have.

Ally had just reached the edge of the burden she felt she could carry. Pressures of her dad, grades, track and dating the right boy. Dressing a certain way, acting appropriately. She never got to be herself or even discover who she was until her ill fated decision that changed everything.

Sterling was her saving grace. Just a boy that was at the right place at the right time and saved her from herself. He slowly showed her how to find herself. A boy with wisdom beyond his young years.

There are numerous heavy issues in this book and adult situations. I would suggest it for a mature young adult or any adult romance reader.

Sadie digs deep with this story and it’s eye opening and brings back all the hardships of growing up. If you didn’t struggle with at least one of the issues then you were a truly blessed teen.

Well written moving story.

I was gifted and arc in exchange for an honest review.

Reviewed by Becky for JoandIsaLoveBooks

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The Praetorian by Dawn L. Chiletz

REVIEWED BY

Monique Cashmere 

The Praetorian by Dawn L. Chiletz
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Wow oh Wow, this is one mixed bag of goodness right here! A rocker, a hot cop, mystery stalker, secrets and lots of suspense all coming together on a reality TV show. I was definitely compelled from the very beginning, it had me at the dedication. I can normally work out early on who is be the bad guy, but in this case, I got it wrong, and I love that I did because it wasn’t predictable.

Roman Creed has a secret, Reed Manning has a secret too and they also have a troubled past. Each wants to leave it all behind and get on with the job at hand, but they both go on the reality TV show for different reasons. Roman to find a new bodyguard and Reed to win the prize money to ease her debts. Little did they realize how complexed their involved would be.

Roman acts like the big Rock Star that he is but deep down it’s just a hard exterior he portrays with a gooey center, a true romantic. He is hot tempered but will go out of his way with kindness for his family and friends. Reed has had a tough upbringing and this is one of the reasons she became a cop. She will put her life on the line to protect her principal. She is strong, loyal and has a tender touch when her wall is down. Together these two were meant to be. They knew it, they felt it, and they breathed it in, their first kiss sealed the deal.

I can tell a lot of research has gone into this novel and for that I am grateful. It was very authentic and I not only felt like a contestant playing the game but I am up on my bodyguard (EPO) language for my next trivia night. If you have read anything else from this author, then you will get the same feeling to it as the others. If it’s your first, you’re starting with a winner.

* I am grateful for the copy provided from the author for my honest opinion.
**Reviewed by Monique for JoandIsaLoveBooksBlog.


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Gentleman Nine by Penelope Ward

REVIEWED BY

ISA JONES

Gentleman Nine by Penelope Ward
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Aw this was a lovely friends to lovers second chance romance story.

I love Penelpe's books and this was another great easy read. I got lost in the characters and their story and I loved the banter and comfortable relationship. Each was well described and as usual her ML are something to lust after.

Channing Amber and Rory were once the best of friends but where there's three there is always a risk to someone being the odd one out. Both Rory and Channing have feelings for Amber and although it was agreed neither will chase her, when Channing leaves to College Rory makes his move. For years they were happy until one day Rory suddenly breaks Amber heart. Amber decides to move on and adjust to his new life without love. So when one fateful day Channing calls her and asks her for a favour, she never expects he will end up coming to share her accommodation. From the moment he appears spark fly and those feelings resurface with a vengeance. Amber is tired of mopping around and when advised to contact an escort agency things take a funny turn and from then on the story takes flight and soars.
There were some emotional turn of events and this is Penelope's masterful writing always leaving the reading guessing where things are heading.

Once again I appreciate the author letting me read and review this fun story.

Isa for Jo&Isalovebooks

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Gentleman Nine by Penelope Ward

REVIEWED BY

Becky Cox 

Gentleman Nine by Penelope Ward
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Gentlemen Nine had fun twist and numerous sweet moments. Rory, Channing and Amber were childhood friends. Both boys had a crush on Amber that she was oblivious to. Channing was a ladies man. When they went to college, Channing transferred for a year and Rory and Amber became a couple.

Now Channing’s back to stay with Amber for a few months while he is town to work on a project. Old secrets are revealed and old feelings are cropping up.

A really sweet friends to lovers story with some surprises. Who doesn’t love surprises. I highly recommend if you are looking for a sweet love story with some serious undertones.

I was gifted a copy in exchange for an honest review.

Reviewed by Becky for JoandIsalovebooks.


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Eulogy by Rachel Van Dyken

REVIEWED BY 

Melinda Lazar 

Eulogy by Rachel Van Dyken
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Eulogy by Rachel Van Dyken

You know how sometimes you love an author and their books and you really can’t wait for their next book to release? But then when you’ve got your hands on it, you’re too scared to read it because you think what fresh level of hell is she going to bring to me? Yeah, that’s me with Van Dyken and Eagle Elite. I absolutely adore the series and I think that Eagle Elite are actually Van Dyken’s best works and Eulogy is a welcome addition to it but I was still scared to read it!

Based on the title of this book and based on my feelings at the end of Enrage, I can’t even tell you how much I was dreading reading Eulogy. A part of me wanted to just be done with the series at the end of Enrage, but then I remembered four words: Blood In. No Out.

I’ve always liked Chase and this journey of his was a difficult one to read. He’s been through so much thanks to bloody Mil and the agony hasn’t ended for him. He’s on a mission to end the De Lange line and in the process, end himself. In short, Chase, the poor tortured soul, needs redemption and it comes in the very unlikely form of Luciana, a new lawyer to the family. Luciana is everything Chase could possibly want or need whether he realizes it or not. She’s the complete antithesis of Mil: she’s sweet and innocent, she’s generous, and she holds nothing of herself back. She drove me crazy with her constant tears and apologies but in fairness, I’d probably be apologizing for a lot less if there was a gun in my face. Luc isn’t like the other girls were used to reading about in EE: she can come across as weak and sniveling but her strength comes through in a different way to the others and is no less significant.

I’m not going to say anything else and I’ve tried to keep the review somewhat vague because the book just needs to be read, especially if you’ve been following along with the happenings in The Family. A fantastic addition to the series. I can’t wait to see what’s next in the world of EE.

*arc received in exchange for honest review.

**Reviewed by Melinda for Joandisalovebooks Blog.

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On His Knees by Laura Kaye

REVIEWED BY

Isa Jones

On His Knees by Laura Kaye
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

WOW is getting hot in here or WHAT!!

As a great lover of all things MM I do submerge myself in many stories, so it is not surprise that when I read the blurb for this book I was dying to read and I was so excited to have the opportunity. So I would like to thank Laura for allowing me to embark in this steamy and romantic tale.

Jamie has had his share of failed relationships, he just can't seem to understand where he has gone wrong. He has tried to establish a solid bond with someone but it is just not meant to be. After a long string of bad luck he is beginning to question the reasons as to why he can fully feel complete. As a lover of ink he enjoys getting his skin marked and loves nothing more than the sting of a needle. One tat later he is suddenly questioning his reasons as to why pain is something so gratifying which sets him on a path of discovery specially with his sexuality. Things begin to become clearer and he wants to have the opportunity to explore this new scenario. Welcome to club BLASPHEMY.

Master Alex is a true DOM, he loves to inflict pain and drive his subs to discover their limits and their sexual fantasies. He is a true master and is respected as one of the founders of Club Blasphemy. Lately however, he can't seem to find a sub that is a match to his strength and needs and he seems to be getting tired of seeing those around finding their match, he craves that. When he is suddenly faced with the possibility of training a new sub, he first is reluctant to give anyone the time of day but one look at Jamie makes him curious as to the sudden interest his body seems to have towards him.

This was a very steamy and passionate read with plenty of BDSM elements and two hot guys with different needs looking for something in common. The journey is a bumpy one, and both will have to learn about their hopes and desires and the best way to give each other what they have been searching for so long in order to accomplish the perfect balance and ultimately the ideal relationship. It is not only the destination but the journey what will ultimately bring the satisfaction they each long for.

5 STARS. Isa for Joandisalovebooks Review Team.

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Up in Smoke by T.M. Frazier

REVIEWED BY 

Jess 

Up in Smoke by T.M. Frazier
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

I don’t know if it’s because I am over this genre of book or because Frankie and Smoke just didn’t do it for me, but UP IN SMOKE didn’t knock my socks off like I was hoping it would.

We read about Smoke during Rage’s book and I was looking forward to his story. I wanted to know why he was as messed up as he was, and now that I know, I feel like TM Frazier didn’t build him up like she has her previous male leads. Smoke was probably the weakest link for me in terms of hero’s. If you can even call him that. Thankfully, I did enjoy Frankie and her bad-ass-ness.

I found parts of this book really difficult to read. Perhaps, I’m just getting older and can’t read about this stuff any more...or maybe, just maybe, this book crossed some lines that I am unwilling to expose myself to. King, Preppy, Bear and Rage are all a band of misfits who require loads of therapy, but I loved their colourful characters. Smoke just made me feel a little meh. I didn’t love him or hate him, and the story line was slow moving at first and then BAM, it all summed up in about 15% and it felt a little rushed in the end.

I’ve been a fan of Frazier’s previous books-and I am not going to fault her for this one. But I’m admitting this was my least favourite- which is a shame.

I didn’t enjoy some of the chemistry between Smoke and Frankie. The tension between them certainly sizzled for a bit there! Nine was a nice addition to the family as well. I’m hoping he gets his own book as well!

ARC received in exchange for an honest review

Reviewed by Jess for joandisalovebooks blog

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Heart Stronger by Rachel Blaufeld

REVIEWED BY

Micky Barnard 

Heart Stronger by Rachel Blaufeld
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

HEART STRONGER is a contemporary romance with a slight suspense theme underlying the story. It starts with an emotional bang that drags the reader into the story very quickly. I found this book to be easy to read and get into, but with some lulling in the later third of the book.

The heroine of this book, Claire is a college professor who is just existing and almost done with life, the details of which make for a rich back story that pulls on your heart strings. Claire is reluctantly befriended by her neighbour, Aiken. Both these characters were likeable and engaging. I liked
Aiken’s up-front manner, nothing was hidden with regards to his feelings but much was hidden as the story progressed.

“I have a crush on you, Claire Richards. A bona fide crush.”

“There was something heavy between us. Real, tangible, although I had no idea where the pull came from. It was a tug like I’d never felt before. A tethering.”

The story navigated a number of themes, some of which I loved, especially the Abby storyline but I did fall out of interest to a degree with the intrigue with the students, Aiken and his search. It was a little convoluted. Nevertheless, the culmination of the story was worthwhile. The writing was easy to slip into but I did get a little lost with engagement towards the last quarter.

The strengths of HEART STRONGER sit in the two main characters and their chemistry. Aiken after all, is the kind of man who will buy a women tampons....sold! The build of their connection was kind of great to watch. I wasn’t a fan of the last few lines of the book.

I voluntarily read an early copy of this book.

Reviewed for Jo&IsaLoveBooks Blog.

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Baby Maker by P. Dangelico

REVIEWED BY

Melinda Lazar 

Baby Maker by P. Dangelico
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Baby Maker by P. Dangelico

While I was soooo eager for this book, I was also a tad apprehensive because I really enjoyed the previous books I’ve read by the author and I was worried that Baby Maker wouldn’t hit the spot for me. Also, I’ve read a few baby-making mission type books of late and wasn’t sure I’d be in the mood for another. Buttttt rest assured, my mood peaked and my spot was hit - thank you, Dangelico - as this was a different take on previous books I’ve read along this trope and was total perfection.

Family circumstances give Stella a nudge into parenthood. She just wants the baby, not a husband. In fact, not a man in any way, shape or form, just his super muscley sperm. A friend of a friend is pretty much looking for the same thing: a baby without the attachments. Sounds ideal, doesn’t it?! Well no. It was *far* from ideal!

From the moment they met - even before! - Dane and Stella were like chalk and cheese. Dane was like a playful puppy who couldn’t take a damn thing seriously and Stella was so uptight and straight-laced, I worried for her spine. But while Stella could have loosened up, Dane did indeed have a serious side that he showed when appropriate and to those worthy of knowing the real him. Frankly, I spent half my time wanting to smack him, and the other half drooling and falling in love. Being a newly retired NFL tight-end, he’s used to women falling and panties dropping but he sooooo doesn’t get that with Stella! Stella became a highly successful financial advisor due in large part the pressures she witnessed her mother experiencing when her father failed to come through for them. This is also the reason she has no interest in having a man in her life. Dane and Stella sign a contract that stipulates the terms of their parental agreement and that’s where the fun and games begin!

I just loved these characters. I loved Dane’s cheeky, playful nature which emphasized his serious side when he chose to show it. I loved Stella’s matter-of-fact personality and while she too made my hand itch, I totally understood how she came to be that way. Dane and Stella beautifully complemented each other and balanced each other out perfectly. I love the direction Dangelico took with this story. I love that Stella didn’t get pregnant the traditional way. I love that Dangelico let them start to fall before taking their relationship to the next level. I love the humor interspersed throughout. I love the little glimpses we got from characters in previous books. I think I just loved the whole thing! I’m intrigued by some of the characters we met in Baby Maker and I’m hoping they’ll get their own stories down the track.

*arc received in exchange for honest review.

**Reviewed by Melinda for Joandisalovebooks Blog.

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Forbidden Lyrics by Jodie Larson

REVIEWED BY

Monique Cashmere

Forbidden Lyrics by Jodie Larson
My rating: 2 of 5 stars

2.5*’s

This is the first book I have read from this author, and although it is a standalone novel, it is the third in a series. With this fact in mind, I sense this is why I didn’t connect with the characters. I felt I have missed an important step. The previous two couples are prominent in this book, so if you have read them, you’ll be happy to see what they are up to.

One of my favourite tropes is the best friends little sister romances, because they have this long slow burn before they finally accepted what they have is worth going further than just a friendship. I am sorry to say, this one didn’t hit the mark for me. I did enjoy the actual story line but I felt it was immature that they waited so long. This was not behavior I expected from a late 20’s woman and a guy in his 30’s.

The couple themselves were ok. I liked Lizzie as she was trying to be her own person under her brother’s shadow. And on the whole I liked Brecken too, but I feel the poor dude was written to fit every book boyfriend persona. The hot rockstar, the carpenter, the alpha male, the new age sensitive guy, the bad boy, the cool dude, one who thinks things through, one who doesn’t care about the consequences. I was lost as it didn’t flow well. I was expecting more from this book after reading the synopsis and unfortunately I was disappointed.

*I received an arc for an honest review.
**Reviewed by Monique for JoandIsaLoveBooksBlog.

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Something So Irresistible by Natasha Madison

REVIEWED BY

Isa Jones

Something So Irresistible by Natasha Madison
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Natasha not only has given me one of the best sport romances of 2018, I am now a big hockey fan! LOL

As with all of her books, Madison creates the perfect stage for an addictive storyline with the right amount of romance, sex and comedy.

Max is putting his past mistakes behind him and is determined to skate his way to the top this season. As a player on and off the rink, he has had his share of women but after one terrible faux pas he is now an outcast amongst his team but prepared to prove his worth. Oh how I love lady fate because his perfectly constructed plan literally melts after running into non other than Allison Grant.

Given the incredible pedigree among her extended athletic family, it wouldn’t have been a stretch to see Allison succeed in the world of Ice Hockey, not as a player herself but as a PR for the team. She wants to be taken seriously and is prepared to do everything to show everyone that she got the job by her own merit and due to her incredible work ethic. If only Max wouldn't have crashed into her and turn her world upside down.

They say there is one step between hate and love and soon Allison and Max are melting more than the ice around them, struggling to keep the feelings hidden for fear of the repercussions around them, they will have to prove that what they have built between them is solid and won't dissolve at the first sprung.

This books makes it the perfect Hat trick in the Something So Series and with the other two books is an exceptional read. BRAVO Natasha!

Thank You for allowing me to read another outstanding story!

5 STARS. Isa for Joandisalovebooks


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