Category: Contemporary fiction

Review: Coming Out at Crofton Hall (Modern Crofton Book 6) by Rebecca Cohen

Rating: 3.5🌈

Per the author’s note, Coming Out was originally intended to be a finale story, putting an end to the Crofton series. But instead it’s seems to have become a bridge to at least 2 to 3 additional tales in the modern universe of Crofton Hall.

It sort of shows. Because other couples wander into the center of this book and their relationship dynamics often become more central to the story than the supposed main characters. One of the couples is Ben and Ashley, the original Crofton romance, now struggling parents of the new baby heir apparent. Well, one, Ashley , is really struggling in his new role. Ben is his usual casual , non confrontational, or perhaps , dare I say entitled self ? Six books on and they still haven’t figured out how to communicate with each other.

The Ben/Ashley pair for me has become a bit of an irritant. They seem to show zero growth in their dynamics from one book to the next. Same arguments, same jealousy elements, same patterns. Stale and frustrating when they pop up.

Then there’s Robin Flint, heir to billions, and his copper boyfriend, Simon. Simon being a favorite character frankly of the four just mentioned. They are still having some issues within their own relationship and need to resolve them. We’ve been watching them work on themselves for a book or so. Simon and Robin are, at least, interesting, and Simon, in his personality and character, has the most depth and ability to communicate.

Then there’s the couple du jour. The reader, if they have been following the series, has watched this main character behave badly and immaturely for books. That’s the closeted movie star Dorian Marsten, who was a ex bf of Robin’s, ex lover of Ben’s. So much drama and jealousy there. Books in fact. Most of the issues stemmed from Dorian’s staying firmly in the closet and his selfishness.

The other new addition to this group is the new secretary of Ben’s, Alex Reynolds. I like this character and his personality immensely. But he gets lost among the people who are mixed up with the other characters.

As written, for Cohen’s Crofton’s modern series, the personalities seem to be divided along class lines as far as those who are, at least from the perspective of this American, between those with the most relationship skills, who feel the most relatable, as well as depth of character (see historian to police officer) to the men who are in the peerage and money. The latter who quintessentially feel out of touch with their partners (in the storylines as written), unorganized, ambivalent about important issues, or just plain oblivious.

These traits occur so frequently throughout this story and other books in the Modern series that it’s not surprising that’s it’s become a regular feature in the narratives.

It overtakes the romance even of Alex and Dorian, such as it is. Too much of the other couples issues are involved or woven into the romance/relationship of the “main characters “ for it to actually work.

Examples:

Ashley has long disliked Dorian and the drama he brings with him because Dorian’s a man who expects others to shoulder his responsibilities.

So naturally Ben ignores, as he always does , Ashley’s wishes, and moves his ex into a house already overwhelmed with stress.

Robin, wealthy and titled, ignores Simon’s fears about committing and wishes for stability, spending time away with his ex Dorian and Ben. Ben, who originally left Ashley with everything, to fly to New York to “rescue” Dorian and Robin from any potential awkwardness.

There’s so much more. But the pattern is clear enough and not new. And while, later on, there are a few apologies for not being attentive, it doesn’t last long.

Meanwhile, the story is still trying to find a path forward for a Dorian , who still can’t do anything for himself, and a lovely Alex, who I want to yank out of the novel and save for a completely different future.

If you’re getting a feeling this book might not have been the best book of the series in my opinion, you might be right .

There’s an entire dramatic element that makes little sense to me. Honestly, does paparazzi not hound people in England? Would those Daily Mail reporters/photogs not have been camped out at Crofton as soon as they knew Dorian was there? All his fans knew. So many holes in the plot here.

So add this to the elements that either distracted me, or frustrated me, or aspects that overshadowed the main romance.

There’s another book, Unfinished Business at Crofton Hall: Robin & Simon (Modern Crofton) to be published in January. Poor Simon. I thought they were done with the uncertainty but apparently not. I’d be having second thoughts myself about Robin at this point.

I’m close to done myself.

I really enjoyed the series earlier but now it’s just a little bit frustrating and long. Maybe the next is the last one.

Read this because it’s part of the series if you will or because you’re a fan of Rebecca Cohen.

The Crofton Universe :

🔷The Crofton Chronicles–Historical (Elizabethan/ Early Stuart):

✓ The Actor and the Earl

✓ Duty to the Crown

✓ Forever Hold His Peace

✓ The Love and the Anger Historical (Elizabethan/ Early Stuart)–Sebastian/ Anthony 10 years together

🔷The Earls of Crofton–Historical: (Different eras–can be read as individual standalone novels):

✓ Anthony, Earl of Crofton (Early Stuart)

✓ James, Earl of Crofton (Restoration)

✓ Charles, Earl of Crofton (Regency)

✓ Samuel, Earl of Crofton (Regency)

🔷The Modern Crofton–Contemporary:

✓ Saving Crofton Hall

✓ Making History at Crofton Hall

✓ Below Stairs at Crofton Hall

✓ Getting Married at Crofton Hall

✓ Starting Again at Crofton Hall

✓ Coming Out at Crofton Hall

◦ Unfinished Business at Crofton Hall: Robin & Simon (Modern Crofton) – January 18,2024

🔷Standalones in the Crofton Universe

◦ Much Ado About Lady Macbeth Note: Sebastian Hewel is a minor character

Something extra for Crofton! Modern Crofton Short Story:

◦ Ben and the Mistletoe (set the Christmas after Saving Crofton Hall)

Buy Link:

Coming Out at Crofton Hall (Modern Crofton Book 6)

Blurb:

After years of hiding who he is, Hollywood A-lister Dorian Marsten has come out. The chaos and unplanned events that follow lead him to Crofton Hall to stay with his friend, Ben Redbourn, Earl of Crofton.

A near tragic incident leaves Dorian needing a boyfriend, and Alex Reynolds, Ben’s new secretary, agrees to play the part. Alex will not put up with any prima donna actions from Dorian, and Dorian may have finally met his match.

Meanwhile, there is a new baby at Crofton Hall. The arrival of the Viscount of Crofton has left his parents, Ben and Ashley, run ragged and life will never be the same again.

Book six in the Modern Crofton series.

Review: Coming Out at Crofton Hall (Modern Crofton Book 6) by Rebecca Cohen

Rating: 3.5🌈

Per the author’s note, Coming Out was originally intended to be a finale story, putting an end to the Crofton series. But instead it’s seems to have become a bridge to at least 2 to 3 additional tales in the modern universe of Crofton Hall.

It sort of shows. Because other couples wander into the center of this book and their relationship dynamics often become more central to the story than the supposed main characters. One of the couples is Ben and Ashley, the original Crofton romance, now struggling parents of the new baby heir apparent. Well, one, Ashley , is really struggling in his new role. Ben is his usual casual , non confrontational, or perhaps , dare I say entitled self ? Six books on and they still haven’t figured out how to communicate with each other.

The Ben/Ashley pair for me has become a bit of an irritant. They seem to show zero growth in their dynamics from one book to the next. Same arguments, same jealousy elements, same patterns. Stale and frustrating when they pop up.

Then there’s Robin Flint, heir to billions, and his copper boyfriend, Simon. Simon being a favorite character frankly of the four just mentioned. They are still having some issues within their own relationship and need to resolve them. We’ve been watching them work on themselves for a book or so. Simon and Robin are, at least, interesting, and Simon, in his personality and character, has the most depth and ability to communicate.

Then there’s the couple du jour. The reader, if they have been following the series, has watched this main character behave badly and immaturely for books. That’s the closeted movie star Dorian Marsten, who was a ex bf of Robin’s, ex lover of Ben’s. So much drama and jealousy there. Books in fact. Most of the issues stemmed from Dorian’s staying firmly in the closet and his selfishness.

The other new addition to this group is the new secretary of Ben’s, Alex Reynolds. I like this character and his personality immensely. But he gets lost among the people who are mixed up with the other characters.

As written, for Cohen’s Crofton’s modern series, the personalities seem to be divided along class lines as far as those who are, at least from the perspective of this American, between those with the most relationship skills, who feel the most relatable, as well as depth of character (see historian to police officer) to the men who are in the peerage and money. The latter who quintessentially feel out of touch with their partners (in the storylines as written), unorganized, ambivalent about important issues, or just plain oblivious.

These traits occur so frequently throughout this story and other books in the Modern series that it’s not surprising that’s it’s become a regular feature in the narratives.

It overtakes the romance even of Alex and Dorian, such as it is. Too much of the other couples issues are involved or woven into the romance/relationship of the “main characters “ for it to actually work.

Examples:

Ashley has long disliked Dorian and the drama he brings with him because Dorian’s a man who expects others to shoulder his responsibilities.

So naturally Ben ignores, as he always does , Ashley’s wishes, and moves his ex into a house already overwhelmed with stress.

Robin, wealthy and titled, ignores Simon’s fears about committing and wishes for stability, spending time away with his ex Dorian and Ben. Ben, who originally left Ashley with everything, to fly to New York to “rescue” Dorian and Robin from any potential awkwardness.

There’s so much more. But the pattern is clear enough and not new. And while, later on, there are a few apologies for not being attentive, it doesn’t last long.

Meanwhile, the story is still trying to find a path forward for a Dorian , who still can’t do anything for himself, and a lovely Alex, who I want to yank out of the novel and save for a completely different future.

If you’re getting a feeling this book might not have been the best book of the series in my opinion, you might be right .

There’s an entire dramatic element that makes little sense to me. Honestly, does paparazzi not hound people in England? Would those Daily Mail reporters/photogs not have been camped out at Crofton as soon as they knew Dorian was there? All his fans knew. So many holes in the plot here.

So add this to the elements that either distracted me, or frustrated me, or aspects that overshadowed the main romance.

There’s another book, Unfinished Business at Crofton Hall: Robin & Simon (Modern Crofton) to be published in January. Poor Simon. I thought they were done with the uncertainty but apparently not. I’d be having second thoughts myself about Robin at this point.

I’m close to done myself.

I really enjoyed the series earlier but now it’s just a little bit frustrating and long. Maybe the next is the last one.

Read this because it’s part of the series if you will or because you’re a fan of Rebecca Cohen.

The Crofton Universe :

🔷The Crofton Chronicles–Historical (Elizabethan/ Early Stuart):

✓ The Actor and the Earl

✓ Duty to the Crown

✓ Forever Hold His Peace

✓ The Love and the Anger Historical (Elizabethan/ Early Stuart)–Sebastian/ Anthony 10 years together

🔷The Earls of Crofton–Historical: (Different eras–can be read as individual standalone novels):

✓ Anthony, Earl of Crofton (Early Stuart)

✓ James, Earl of Crofton (Restoration)

✓ Charles, Earl of Crofton (Regency)

✓ Samuel, Earl of Crofton (Regency)

🔷The Modern Crofton–Contemporary:

✓ Saving Crofton Hall

✓ Making History at Crofton Hall

✓ Below Stairs at Crofton Hall

✓ Getting Married at Crofton Hall

✓ Starting Again at Crofton Hall

✓ Coming Out at Crofton Hall

◦ Unfinished Business at Crofton Hall: Robin & Simon (Modern Crofton) – January 18,2024

🔷Standalones in the Crofton Universe

◦ Much Ado About Lady Macbeth Note: Sebastian Hewel is a minor character

Something extra for Crofton! Modern Crofton Short Story:

◦ Ben and the Mistletoe (set the Christmas after Saving Crofton Hall)

Buy Link:

Coming Out at Crofton Hall (Modern Crofton Book 6)

Blurb:

After years of hiding who he is, Hollywood A-lister Dorian Marsten has come out. The chaos and unplanned events that follow lead him to Crofton Hall to stay with his friend, Ben Redbourn, Earl of Crofton.

A near tragic incident leaves Dorian needing a boyfriend, and Alex Reynolds, Ben’s new secretary, agrees to play the part. Alex will not put up with any prima donna actions from Dorian, and Dorian may have finally met his match.

Meanwhile, there is a new baby at Crofton Hall. The arrival of the Viscount of Crofton has left his parents, Ben and Ashley, run ragged and life will never be the same again.

Book six in the Modern Crofton series.

Review: Next Season (The Elmwood Stories, #2) by Lane Hayes

Rating: 4.75🌈

I’m not sure how I missed this series because it’s from a must read author and it’s a mm hockey romance. The last is a trope that is definitely a grab and devour read for me.

So even diving into the utterly delightful and charming world of Elmwood, Vermont , via the second novel, has me hooked. Yes, small town Vermont in the fall, check off another box in my romantic fiction lists of things that works for me.

Hayes begins our journey with these characters brutally enough. It’s with a realistic but devastating play on ice that sends Riley Thoreau of the Seattle Seattle Slammers to the hospital. He’s 35, teetering at the end of a long career with a new team that’s not playing so well. And now a potentially career ending injury if he’s not careful about his recovery.

Lane’s emotionally charged scenes and exceptional descriptions bring the reader quickly into Riley’s life and mindset, turning this story into a journey we are on with him.

The choice to recover in Elmwood makes sense in though I haven’t read that first book with the characters that extend the invitation. The need for quiet and a certain environment has already been made.

Elmwood brings not only our second main character but all of the other major characters in this series as well as the heartwarming and charming locations.

JC or Jean-Claude Bouchard, the French Canadian chef at the diner owned by Nolan (half of the first book’s couple), is a fantastic character. He’s too easily portrayed as that “grumpy guy “ because Lane has given Jean-Claude so much dimension to his personality and background.

Together with Riley, this quickly became a romance to invest my heart in. Riley’s story is not only about his struggle to recover but also about his future, and with his attraction to Jean-Claude. The last, he acknowledges is the least he finds he’s having issues with. This is a bisexual awareness for Riley and it’s a good one, not high on angst. But with realistic communications and feelings involved as both men find themselves in a relationship and unexpected situation .

I love this story and these men. For me, it wasn’t long enough. I wanted more of their in between life before that epilogue. I found them and their lives rich in emotion and vibrant in joy.

I hope we see them again in book three. And now I’m going back to pick up book 1.

It’s a must for all lovers of contemporary romance and hockey fans. And this author as well!

The Elmwood Stories:

◦ You, Again #1

✓ Next Season #2

◦ Holiday Crush #3 – Dec 10, 2023

Buy Link:

Next Season: MM Small Town/Hockey Romance (The Elmwood Stories Book 2)

Blurb:

The injured hockey player and the grumpy chef…

Riley

My time playing pro hockey will be up soon. I can feel it. And I’ve heard the rumors: he’s too old, he’s had too many injuries, he’s lost his edge. I don’t want to admit it, but they could be right. Next season might be my last.

Or this season. Because of course, this is when the universe decides I need another concussion. It’s a doozy too—the kind that’s going to keep me off skates for a while.

Which is how I end up in a small New England town in the middle of nowhere Vermont, eating every meal at a diner where a grumpy chef from Quebec makes haute cuisine…and burgers. Jean-Claude is funny and charming and—

Okay, I have a crush on a gay man.

This is a new one.

Jean-Claude

Confused straight men are entertaining. But Riley is…fascinating, sexy, and curiously vulnerable. His injury has rocked his confidence a bit, so perhaps he’s in need of a friend. Any friend. Even moi.

I’m an unlikely choice, but maybe he just likes my tuna salad.

No…I think it’s me.

And though I’m happy to help him explore his bisexual curious side, I have career concerns of my own. See, the things I love most about Elmwood seem shaky and uncertain, but not Riley. He’s solid and genuine. Suddenly, this temporary secret liaison feels more real than anything in my life.

I need more than this season. I want it all. With Riley.

Next Season is an MM bisexual-awakening romance featuring a grumpy chef, an injured hockey player, and a big HEA in a small town where anything can happen.

Review: Poison at Penshaw Hall (The Milverton Mysteries Book 2) by G B Ralph

Rating: 4.75🌈

“With nothing else for it, Addison took a deep breath and dove in, hoping to traverse the carnage and reach the cafe without being trampled under the masses of Milvertonians. He may not have known what was going on, but he did know he’d kill for a coffee.”

— Poison at Penshaw Hall (The Milverton Mysteries Book 2) by G B Ralph

Ahhhhh, the masses of Milvertonians! So lovely to be back in the cozy mysteries of G B Ralph! He’s returned with his second in The Milverton Mysteries series, Poison at Penshaw Hall. Addison Harper, still getting acquainted to the town and looking forward to his first date with Sergeant Jake Murphy, is in the thick of it all. We are right beside him.

So happy to see all the quirky people and places that Ralph has created for Milverton, New Zealand , his location for this cozy mystery series.

Ralph gets exactly what a cozy is all about, so his small township vividly reflects that weird and wonderful intimacy that only a small population of longtime residents can bring to a community. It’s in the names of the businesses, like Lynne’s Cafe, or in the believable dynamics that play out on the town square between the local septuagenarian and craft fair organizer.

A reader needs to have the foundation of the first novel, Murder on Milverton Square, to understand why Addison Harper has ended up in Milverton (a will from a long lost relative), has gotten a reputation as a amateur sleuth (a murder solved), and began getting a tenuous relationship with romantic overtones with the local Sergeant. I mean they are just inching towards anything approximating romance here. That’s the facts. But the charm, the mystery, and all the fabulous depth of detail are in the reading.

Poison at Penshaw picks up shortly after the events of the first book, the timeline being very close between the two novels. Addison is still weighing the possibility of staying in Milverton versus returning home to the life he left behind in Wellington, such as it was. Milverton is swaying away with its small town beauty and welcoming mix of personalities and culture. I was swayed too.

In fact, Ralph plunges the reader into the craziness that’s Milverton getting ready for a Terrific Town Award contest/ceremony. There’s statues to be judged, arguments among organizers, and goats on the lawn. Perfect cozy atmosphere for murder and mystery.

Things start to go awry immediately and some of our favorite characters are pulled into the murderous proceedings. In addition to Addison, there’s the wonderfully funny septuagenarian Mabel Zhou , town library and visitor center’s volunteer. I love this character and can’t get enough of her. Vibrant, gossipy, and dedicated to Addison, Mabel is lively woman who’s into everything. Constable Sean McGiffert and Constable Manaia Edwards are welcome sights but have limited roles here. But the author expands our knowledge of Milverton’s citizens and introduces new interesting people into the narrative. And does it in such a way that we get further insight into the history of the town and Addison’s great uncle.

The murder and investigations proceed as we expect. One official and one not so much. It’s the later that’s Addison’s involved in.0

At the end Ralph has moved everything forward incrementally, case solved so Addison and Jake can continue to work on their relationship. And a decision about staying in Milverton. Yes, they progress past heart eyes but not much.

If you’re looking for a sexy story, this isn’t it. Slow slow burn it is.

It’s also charming, funny, interesting, endlessly entertaining, and with characters I find endearing in that quirky small town way.

I can’t wait to see how Addison’s life there and his relationships progress.

If you’re a fan of cozy mysteries, slow burn romances, and just fun, well written stories, this series and book is a wonderful place to explore. Read the series in the order they are written in:

The Milverton Mysteries :

✓ Murder on Milverton Square #1

✓ Poison at Penshaw Hall #2

◦ Death in Douglas Glade #3- Oct 2, 2024

Buy Link:

Poison at Penshaw Hall (The Milverton Mysteries Book 2)

Blurb:

Addison Harper is back, and with another dead body at his feet. Only this time, the entire town saw it happen.

Milverton is in the running for the Terrific Town Award, so a dramatic death at the opening ceremony is far from ideal. Addison had only been lending a hand, but now finds himself much more involved than he’d ever hoped. To think his biggest worry before had been his upcoming date with Sergeant Jake Murphy.

As for the sergeant, he can hardly ignore a hall full of witnesses even if he wanted to. And they’re all pointing the finger at his date, Milverton’s newest arrival, Addison Harper.

Poison at Penshaw Hall is the latest in a wonderful cosy mystery series set in an enchanting small town nestled amongst stunning New Zealand scenery. Investigate The Milverton Mysteries for a chaotic cast of local busybodies, delicious baked treats, a demanding and disdainful ginger cat, a very slow-burn romance with a rather appealing policeman, and of course… murder!

Review: The Score (Charleston Condors #3) by Beth Bolden

Rating: 4.5 🌈

I may have become disillusioned with the RL game of football but not with Beth Bolden’s fantastic group of connected football series. They continue to keep me emotionally invested in each and every team and player.

The Charleston Condors are the third team and series represented in the group and The Score signals the penultimate storyline as this wonderful series comes to an end.

Carter Maxwell is a Condor that’s made indelible appearances in every book so far, usually because he’s happily hitting on the men in almost every scene he appears in. Not that anyone takes him seriously. Funny, handsome, a sexual hound, a “player” as they call it, and a star on the field. All very surface level things.

Now Bolden does her best job in bringing us a man in trouble. One filled with rage and long simmering resentment left by dysfunctional parenting that bordered on abuse, neglect, and internalized guilt that’s affecting his life on and off the field. Carter needs and finally asks for help.

And gets it. In several ways.

In an agent who works for him, one who hires a son and his mother to help Carter get his life together.

The son is Ian Parker. A well known LA sober coach whose goal is to become a professional agent like Alec, he’s hired by Alec to be a companion/coach for Carter. The whole steamy dynamic between Ian and Carter that began upon their initial encounter is fully realized. Bolden creates such heat between them immediately that you wonder how the rest of the story is going to unfold. Including the no sex part.

The other aspect I was unexpected and so well thought out was the therapist/therapy sessions with Carter and Moira, his therapist. Who is also Ian’s mother. Bolden’s work here is nuanced and thoughtful. Both on how these sessions provoke a discussion and how they affect the life of Carter because he’s open to the dialogue that’s happening.

And for all the situations that are also involved when two people are related and in the positions they have taken on in their respective lives. In other cases, this could have been a disaster. That was only marginally addressed.

Now to what Bolden’s spectacular at. That’s bringing the game of football alive on the page. Whether it’s team dynamics, inter team chemistry, game planning and then the all important explosive on the field action, it’s brilliantly described and vibrantly illustrated in the scenes. Those pigskins soar, every hit hurts.

Win or lose, this author carries us with her players and team with a passion.

And that’s why I’ll continue to read about football and her teams. Because she makes me continue to care.

A few quibbles. Ian’s career development wasn’t really explored towards the end. Did he really want the job? Was he a part of Alec’s team? Not sure what happened with that.

There’s a sense of HFN here as they are getting settled into their new roles as well as their relationship. And Carter’s ability to get a handle on his temper is new.

I’m looking forward to the finale story with Deacon and Mr C. And if there’s more football in Bolden’s future, writing wise.

I’m definitely recommending the Charleston Condors series as well as all of Bolden’s connected books. That includes The Score! It should be read in the order that the series is written for relationships and team development.

Charleston Condors:

✓ The Star #1

✓ The Game #2

✓ The Score #3

◦ The Play #4 – March 31, 2024

Bolden’s connected Football series in order they are written:

✓ The Riptide

✓ Miami Piranhas

✓ Charleston Condors

Buy Link:

The Score (Charleston Condors Book 3)

Blurb:

Carter Maxwell knows he’s a screwup. Four teams in three seasons tells the story, as much as he wishes it didn’t.

But finally, he’s landed in a good place, where he likes the team and the team actually likes him. Even the Condors’ current rebuilding mode suits him. There’s a new owner. New coach. New players. New rules.

But one rule hasn’t changed: don’t seduce your agent-appointed c*ckblocker.

Ian Parker agrees to live with Carter and keep him on the straight and narrow for one simple reason: Alec, the agent in charge of cleaning up Carter’s reputation, has promised him something Ian wants very, very badly.

Even more badly than Carter naked above him and below him and next to him.

A chance for Ian to become an agent.

But Ian didn’t take into account just how persuasive Carter is—or just how desperately he desires to be persuaded. Or how, while spending time with Carter, they’ll somehow stumble into a fake relationship that begins to feel all too real.

It doesn’t matter that Carter’s never fallen in love or that he’s never been in a real relationship. It doesn’t matter that Ian’s risking his future as an agent.

He’s determined to score the impossible and reform the bad boy—only after encouraging Carter to misbehave one last time. But this time, only with him.

Review: Got Me Feeling(Vet Shop Boys Book 8) by Casey Cox

Rating: 3.75🌈

Got Me Feeling is the series finale for the sexy, heartwarming series by Casey Cox about a group of veterinarians, their clinic, and each man’s journey to HEA.

I’ve adored this series, found each story fascinating, and the manner in which each vet found their happiness a joy to read. Cats, funny t-shirts, lube soaps, twins, bakers, piglets, weddings gone wrong, the author has taken us and these caring people on quite the path to love.

Their stories have been written so that we feel like we know them. They’ve been humorous, serious, often thoughtful, sometimes very painful in what the different individuals have gone through, but always ultimately loving and satisfying in the end.

I don’t know why but I expected more from a finale story than I got with Locky and Roman, but I wanted a wrap up book that had a relationship that left me feeling a little more comfortable and happy than the one that was written here.

Maybe it’s just the elements that Cox introduced into the storyline for Roman’s character that weren’t conducive to the type of character and personality traits that he was supposed to have within him. He literally stalked Locky in the story. And instead of communicating to his brother, or Locky, the fact that he’s “investigating” Locky’s shady ex husband, he’s keeping secrets. Letting Locky continue to feel vulnerable and insecure as he heads towards his divorce. The voice that keeps telling Roman he’s a thug is the one I started to agree with, and not the one that everyone else says is a person who is in recovery.

Those issues are waived away in the book as “ok” because well, Roman loves Locky, and was doing things in his best interest. Am I the only one who thinks that these are flags?

Had more time been taken to explore these aspects of the relationship, I might have been more inclined to think that they were realistic in the dynamic and partnership. But so much was glossed over here.

Roman was straight until Locky, then he’s bi? Locky sexual? Pan? Was never straight. I’m not a fan of the GFY but this is another aspect that wasn’t really given depth. I’m attracted to you, let’s have sex. Ok.

The kitten thing was cute. The ex husband was a dramatic hurdle that was almost nonexistent.

Then everyone had a party to celebrate. Series over.

It all felt so rushed. From the relationship to the storyline and all the elements in between. Nothing seems especially well developed or balanced with aspects of each character trait left feeling a bit unsettled or unfulfilled.

Never felt realistic. And I thought as a finale I should have come away feeling happier and with a better overall picture of the group at this stage of their lives.

So final thoughts. It was a nice story but wasn’t one I would have expected from a series finale. Vet Shop Boys is a sexy, warm-hearted series and I found the tales very entertaining. Read them and enjoy.

Vet Shop Boys series so far:

✓ Got Me Hoping #1

✓ Got Me Wishing #2

✓ Got Me Looking #3

✓ Got Me Thinking #4

✓ Got Me Going #5

✓ Got Me Merry #6

✓ Got Me Talking #7

✓ Got Me Feeling #8 – finale

Buy Link:

Got Me Feeling (Vet Shop Boys Book 8)

Blurb:

I’m a thug. I’ve done bad things. And I’m straight… So why can’t I get the sexy Aussie vet out of my head?

When I showed up on my brother’s doorstep three years ago, I’d hit rock bottom. Broke and homeless, with a miles-long trail of destruction in my wake.

Those days are behind me. I’m rebuilding my life. Staying focused. Disciplined. Busy. If I’m not working to pay back my debts, I’m helping out at my brother’s animal shelter. Whatever it takes to keep my impulses under control.

And then I meet Locky, the new Aussie vet. His husband cheated, kicked him out, and is threatening to turn their divorce nuclear.

My newfound control snaps. I have to help, even if the smart thing to do would be to stay away.

I definitely shouldn’t give Locky a place to stay.
Or offer to be his wingman…with benefits.
Or get involved in his messy divorce.

Too late.

I may be straight, but Locky’s triggered every possessive instinct I have. And that’s what makes this situation dangerous. Because I do very bad things to protect the people I care about.

I’ve worked hard to start over, so why has Locky got me feeling I’d be willing to blow it all up for him?

Got Me Feeling is book 8 in the Vet Shop Boys series and can be read as a stand-alone. Expect plenty of humor, found family, bi-awakening, forced proximity, a possessive thug who’s hiding a kitty-cute secret, and a heartwarming happily ever after!

Review: Body Count (Wayward Sons Book 1) by L Eveland

Rating: 4.5🌈

The blurb for the book is what drew my attention immediately. The subject matter and characters of L Eveland’s series are so dark and detailed in their histories that my mind made a swift connection to another author’s terrific books that offer up the same type of murderous psychopaths (Onley James’ Necessary Evils series).

I was so excited to see what Eveland did with this terrifying type of character and found family, and how given the same traits and motivations, what twists this author took their story.

It doesn’t take long to see the differences and similarities. When you are writing a psychopath realistically, there’s defining characteristics built into the personality. That includes an inability to understand love as a normal person would. None of the characters in this book, and I expect, the series, will fall within the category of normal human emotional development.

There’s a long list of trigger warnings at the beginning of this book and if a reader is even a tad squeamish, this isn’t the story and series for you. This is dark fiction about psychopaths killing people, and maybe eating them.

The family that forms the basis for the individuals is a very different and unique group of people. One, it’s a polycule, the likes of which I haven’t read about in a story before. Those strong men and women ,who have big backgrounds of their own, are people who the reader will get to know more about over the series. From them comes the adult children , natural and adopted, who will get their own stories. Their legal business? A funeral home.

Wayward Sons’ Body Count begins with adopted son, mortician River Laskin on the prowl in a sketchy dive bar at the edge of town. One of the book’s two pov’s, his voice is telling the reader of his need for violence but not the a clear target until he spies a group of men and a collared youth cowering at their feet. That’s our second main character, Theo of no last name.

Theo is a victim of child trafficking from a very early age, 5 years old. He’s been in the custody of the same trafficker since he was sold and his mental state is that of someone who has been broken down to the barest extent that even when River “frees” him, Theo finds he can’t cope with his new situation and world that’s open to him.

Nor can River bring the person he is have the empathy to help him but he does have the support system.

Eveland does a remarkable job getting into the headspace of both men as they navigate through the process of their relationship and Theo’s trauma. That it happens to include finding out that the murderous psychopath who rescued you is part of a larger group of people who exhibit a range of abnormal psychological disorders which are slowly revealed in the book. That’s in addition to the mafia family connections they rely on heavily.

I’m actually astonished that Body Count moves along so quickly and isn’t weighted down by the author getting dragged into clinical details about the different disorders the brothers have been diagnosed with. Whether it’s the triplets’ schizophrenia or Shepherd’s DID, multiple personality disorder, it’s folded into the narrative in such a way that it’s natural for Theo to hear it, and not a info dump. Eveland’s narrative flow is due to such great depth and writing choices in how these elements are handled.

Theo and River’s relationship is rife with trigger potential for readers, however much it makes sense within the dynamics that Eveland is framing out for the couple. Does Theo understand the concept of consent? Maybe, it’s a very gray area. Would River be able to let him go? Maybe not. So how free is he? There’s pain play involved here but it’s brought into the equation in a way that makes it easier to see how much trauma Theo is trying to process.

Towards the end I felt that Theo’s “recovery “ was more advanced than an actual traumatized person in this situation would be. Maybe not.

Theo became a member of a family of traumatized individuals who were able to support him and his unique relationship with River.

Eveland took a dark topic and even more twisted characters and is giving them a very interesting look in this series, complete with mushrooms with have a revolting starter. Word to the wise. Don’t eat anything with mushrooms from this family.

I’m so sorry that I have to wait until next Spring for the second installment in this series. I could have easily binged this had the books been written.

It’s an absolute recommendation. But only for those who want to read dark fiction and appreciate the more murderous of natures in the characters we read. The list of trigger warnings is at the beginning and it’s appropriately long. Read them first before making your decision. It includes torture, child sexual abuse, murder, and hints of cannibalism.

Wayward Sons:

✓ Body Count #1

◦ Skin Deep #2 – April 30,2024

Buy Link:

Body Count: A Dark MM Romance (Wayward Sons Book 1)

Blurb:

Death is his business, and I live to serve.

Theo

Mortician River Laskin is a monster, a narcissistic sociopath with blood on his hands, but he’s also my savior.

When he rescues me from a human trafficking ring, the last thing on my mind is vengeance. I need to pull my life together and figure out how to survive in a world where I don’t exist. Without someone to tell me what to do, I’m lost. River is all I have to cling to, the only thing that makes sense in this terrifying new world.

But he and his family of murderous psychopaths have other plans, mafia connections, and murder on their minds.

River Laskin

I knew from the moment I saw him that Theo was mine. Mine to protect, mine to break, mine to put back together again.

My favorite toy.

I will use every resource at my disposal to find the men who hurt him and make them pay, whether he wants me to or not. It’s not up to him.

I’ll burn every bridge, turn over every stone, dig up every body until I get what I want.

And what I want now is vengeance for Theo. The Devil himself couldn’t stop me. I dare him to try.

Body Count is the first novel in the Wayward Sons series, a series standalone of dark MM romances that follows the Laskin brothers as they battle their inner demons and find love.

Review: Clueless Puckboy (Puckboys, #5) by Eden Finley and Saxon James

Rating: 5🌈

When I’m not even at 15% and all I’ve done is laugh so hard I’m crying and my sides are in stitches, you bet I’m giving the book a 5 star rating. Clueless Puckboy is right. And probably my favorite novel to date out of a bunch of crazy hockey stories from this pair of authors.

Ayri Quinn is fighting an adductor injury and doesn’t want his team trainers to know he’s not as recovered as he says he is. Quinn is a character so adorable and funny that his issues, which aren’t humorous at all, have this reader snorting in laughter, because the authors have set up this situation and created him just so perfectly.

I love Quinn. He’s ferlect. That’s something you’ll get if you read the book btw. Stumbling over his words, blushing, intense, in his head , practically ferlect in every way.

The man watching Quinn and determined to help him before Quinn’s stubbornness in refusing help derails his career is one Vance Landon. Vance is one of the trainers with Quinn’s NHL team in Buffalo, NY and a great character foil for the younger man. A bit older, athletic , gay, and empathetic, Vance’s personality plays off Quinn’s endearing character in a manner that is made to have the reader fall for them both. As we do.

Starting from a basis of professional concern and knowledge, the switch to attraction and recognition of their mutual interest is natural and believable. It’s often awkward and funny too.

But James and Finley go the adult route, and that’s including a lot of discussion about what a relationship would mean for the team and their future in hockey. All that goes along with spectacular descriptions of a hockey season in play. Buffalo is fighting for the playoffs and Stanley Cup, and the authors make the race vivid in the on the ice physical scenes.

And of course, it’s not a great story if some, if not all, of the NHL Queer Collective make appearances in very memorable moments.

So, do I adore this story and couple? Absolutely. It and them made my day and night as I picked it up and read it through in one sitting. Filled with joy, a ton of laughter, and yes, some sexy moments, this is a favorite of mine.

Pick it up and see why it’s on my reread pile! Highly recommended!

Puckboys:

✓ Egotistical Puckboy #1

✓ Irresponsible Puckboy #2

✓ Shameless Puckboy #3

✓ Foolish Puckboy #4

✓ Clueless Puckboy #5

Buy Link :

Clueless Puckboy (Puckboys Book 5)

Blurb:

QUINN

Straining my groin is bad enough. It puts my hockey career, my future, but even worse, my dignity on the line.

Having to get massages in that area from Vance Landon, one of the team trainers, is mortifying.

It’s impossible to hide my feelings toward him. If my constant blushing and bumbling doesn’t give it away, my body does.

It’s getting to the point where I wonder if hockey is even worth the embarrassment.

Trying to avoid him only makes him seek me out more. He’s determined to rehab my injury, but all I want is for him to leave me alone.

Or fall for me.

One or the other.

VANCE

Ayri Quinn isn’t your typical jock … except for the fact he refuses to admit when he’s injured.

I’ve seen more than enough professional sportsmen lose the career they love due to injury, and I’m not having it happen again.

Especially not when the guy in question happens to be the sweetest, most awkward, innocent jock I’ve ever met.

When a night out leads to Quinn reinjuring himself, I create a care plan that keeps me hands on, literally. Unfortunately, working with him in close proximity brings all those feelings I’ve been trying to ignore to the surface.

I just need to get him better so he can be back on the ice and out of my bed.

Ah, my massage bed.

Because if this goes on any longer, I might mean my actual bed.

Ayri Quinn is impossible to resist.

Review: Dump and Chase (Watkins Glen Gladiators #3) by V. L. Locey

Rating: 4.5🌈

Dump and Chase is such a sweet, low angst romance, that it’s easy to overlook its beautiful moments and great qualities because it’s so smoothly written.

This is a wonderful story of a young d-man from the Watkins Glen Gladiators and the widowed assistant pastor and single father of a small congregation who find themselves in a relationship that’s leads towards a HEA. To be honest, I avoid any novels that have religious content . Not my thing. But here it comes as a profession as well as the man’s desire to serve his community. Locey’s portrait is that of a multidimensional person.

Gabriel Hansley is a single dad with a rambunctious young son, a widower who loved his wife, a overwhelmed assistant pastor trying to move his church forward and a lonely man who’s becomes attracted to a younger hockey player. Everything about Gabe makes him someone we’d like to meet and connect with.

Deandre Jones, defensive man for the Watkins Glen Gladiators, is another of Locey’s gems when it comes to her hockey players. Young, talented, smart, trying to make a name for himself yet stay true to the upright, mannered person he was raised to be by his mother and close knit family. By dialogue and background, Deandre comes together with crystal clarity. That includes the issues he has of commitment that stem from a father’s abandonment.

Dump and Chase layers in a series of serious issues and elements, gently taking an opportunity to inspect, address and then, if possible, resolve them with communication and kindness. It’s not just obstacles that arise between the main characters, although that’s often the case, but other things as well. Things get wider audience as all sorts of allies and friends are drawn together for dialogue and discussions about things that need a closer look.

Super angsty? Perhaps not. Grownup with a lovely optimistic voice of adult reason with its underlying sense of humor and self worth.

And while the adults are finding their way into a relationship, it’s framed around Gabe’s changing life at his small congregation and Deandre’s role at the Gladiators. Change is happening, it’s how each of them will be able to deal with it and decide what to do with the new paths that open up.

The supporting cast of characters is a joy. Whether it’s Gabe’s son or Deandre’s teammates, Deandre’s mother or the wealthy winemaker who’s been Gabe’s biggest supporter at the church for changes, they are engaging and people I’m sure we will be seeing more of in future stories.

Dump and Chase (Watkins Glen Gladiators #3) by V. L. Locey is an engaging sweet romance and one of my favorites to date. I highly recommend it.

Watkins Glen Gladiators:

✓ Between The Pipes #1

✓ Defending The House #2

✓ Dump and Chase #3

Buy Link:

Blurb:

Working side-by-side on a charity project might just prove to be the foundation of a new romance.

Deandre Jones is enjoying his single life quite nicely, thank you. He’s a defenseman on the Watkins Glen Gladiators, gets to travel, dates frequently, and isn’t tied down to anything other than his mom and brother back in the windy city. He has time to do the whole family and kids thing. Right now he’s happy to be footloose, even if his mother has different ideas. As the playoffs near his focus should be on hockey, but for some reason, he can’t seem to give the sport its due. Ever since he volunteered to help the incredibly handsome assistant pastor of a local church work on an addition to the parish, his attention seems to be locked on curly hair and bright blue eyes instead of breakaways and body checks.

Gabriel Hansley has quite the full plate. Not only is he the first openly out bisexual assistant pastor for a small but highly active parish, but he’s also got his son to tend to as well as his work at the church, which keeps him hopping all day long. And that’s a good thing as the nights alone are hard for the young widower. Just when he’s about to give up on finding a person to share his life with—chaotic as it can be—he finds himself hammering nails beside Deandre Jones. As they work side-by-side under the bright spring sun, he’s getting warmer under the collar with each shared smile and terrible carpentry pun.

Dump and Chase is a low-angst, slow burn, age gap queer hockey romance with a not-quite-as-confirmed-as-he-thought bachelor, a harried single father, plenty of nosy but well-meaning parishioners and teammates, tons of joyous song, and a harmonious happily ending.

Review: Find Me Worthy (Safe Harbor #3) by Annabeth Albert

Rating: 3.75🌈

So close. Find Me Worthy was so close to being an absolutely 5-Star story when the author , imo, sabotaged it by adding on an epilogue that negatively changed my view about the book , it felt so unnecessary.

But first let’s look at what Albert does remarkably well, and that’s everything that goes on beforehand.

Safe Harbor has dealt with a central question of a dead file mystery case was solved when it turned out that the local popular mother of the community who went missing years ago had been murdered by a serial killer. Her body was discovered in the nearby body of water by former police officer, brought up by a recovery diver, and the crime along with the discovery was part of an investigation led by a popular crime podcast.

All that information is part of the series themes and an integral part of the men involved in the investigation and as victims of the original crime itself. Some were once close friends and now others have become, through the investigation, partners of these men who live in Safe Harbor.

The reader , through the descriptions and memories of the men, become part of their journey to resolve the mystery and work through their own issues as well. It’s been a moving, and sometimes tearful journey. Albert has done a spectacular job with the town, the professions of each person, in some cases their disabilities, and the traits that make each man a unique individual.

Now we get to the finale. There’s the two strong main characters. Sam Bookman, owner of Blessed Bean coffee shop, son of a pastor and a hearing impaired mother, a social worker who’s the heart of Safe Harbor.

Sam has always had a huge crush on older Worth Stapleton, whose mother was murdered by a serial killer and in whose family house Sam bought and now lives.

Worth always thought his father was guilty of his mother’s death and told him so before he died. He’s been absent from Safe Harbor for decades, until a business scandal cost him everything and his mother’s death was resolved. The Worth we meet is ill, highly depressed, with nothing but an incredibly expensive car to his name and an unexpected desire to return home.

Which he does. But that home is now owned by Sam, and that’s where the story begins. Where a man who’s lost everything ends back at his beginnings only to find that that house is now the beginnings of someone who has always been there for him.

It’s a haunting, emotional, fabulous moment. And , importantly, it includes a young sheltie who’s been abandoned and will become central to Worth’s recovery and journey into a new life. That’s Buttercup. Make note of this dog and his huge role as a support animal and loved companion.

As the men try to find a way to make this tenuous relationship they’ve begun work, sharing their past life experiences and new present struggles, we learn that depression has always been a part of Worth’s life but that he’s never really gotten the treatment and therapy that would have helped him cope with the trauma and stress that his life has offered up.

The raw pain, the guilt and trauma that he’s felt and carried is powerfully portrayed by Albert’s skillful handling of this man’s emotional issues. And having and transferring some of those feelings of being left behind by his family over into the abandonment of a dog by its owners is a realistic element, making Buttercup’s presence even more impactful.

Sam’s personality is no slouch against such a great character. He’s got so many qualities and outstanding personal traits here. Plus he’s got a fabulous Siamese cat to balance Buttercup. He’s got Blessed Bean with all its diversity in its workers, and its issues. The house and its renovations along with its memories. And the community which is constantly circling around him.

So I did have a few questions about things within the main storyline, things that I’m still thinking about:

Spoiler Alert 🚨:

1. When things were going financially wrong at the Bean (even with that expensive coffee machine) and the men were together, why was it never ever brought up for Worth to offer to sell his 6-figure “Ive made it” high priced car to help with the expenses? Nope, that millionaire buggy isn’t mentioned except that they ride in it a couple of times later on.

2. What happens to the severe coffee competition? A big brand buys next door to try and squeeze the local coffee shop out. Stuff ensues. But logically?? What happens? We don’t know. The author doesn’t tell us, and from the drama that’s written, it’s not enough to make any difference.

3. What’s Worth doing? Running the shop ? Financial advisor? What?

I have to admit it’s great seeing Holden and Cal, and Monroe and Knox. Their roles here are perfect and made me want to read their stories all over again.

The way Find Me Worthy ended, with that wedding. It was perfect , and most importantly, that emotional support dog, Buttercup, being a part of the celebration and ceremony? Made it everything I wanted to read .

So why am I so unhappy?

Because the author doesn’t stop there. She should have. But then we get an epilogue. With a different voice, a foster kid. Which, ok, but now issues. Because guess who’s been wiped completely away? No dog or cat. We have two young adults, and it’s two years later. But Albert has totally changed or forgotten that all important Buttercup or cat. Which would have been great in this scenario when all the people were gathering on this occasion. Kids and pets! But nope.

We don’t need animals if we got the kids? Or is this just another example of the missing animal character that the author drops without explanation? Because that’s a number one problem that has always bugged me so completely in a book. Make an animal an important factor in a character’s journey and personal growth, and then without a word, it disappears from the narrative.

Like Buttercup does here. So weird change of POV, missing important elements, and ,imo, unnecessary epilogue.

Either way, a complete fail.

Because now that’s all I’m thinking about. What happened to Buttercup. Not about the story or anything else. That missing dog.

It’s enough for me to want to kick this even further down another notch.

Most people will love this. Others? Skip the epilogue so you don’t fall down this narrative rabbit hole I have.

Just say no.

Safe Harbor:

✓ Bring Me Home #1

✓ Make Me Stay #2

✓ Find Me Worthy #3

Buy Link:

Find Me Worthy (Safe Harbor Book 3)

Blurb.

I thought I’d lost myself…

Until Sam found me. I’m back in Safe Harbor, where I haven’t belonged in over twenty years. I’m unsure how I ended up here, yet I’m certain Sam is the key to finally healing.

But it’s complicated.

Sam’s had a crush on me since we were younger. To me, however, he was always the annoying kid tagging along. Now he’s all grown-up and delightfully bossy—and sexy—as he encourages me to reclaim my health.

I enjoy pushing Sam’s buttons, but one button too many leads to a scorching kiss. Soon, we’re using Sam’s cushy bed for way more than sleeping. But I can’t imagine staying in Safe Harbor forever, and no way is Sam leaving.

Sam’s given me a place to stay, a job at his nonprofit coffee shop, and a sense of purpose when I had none. But can I give him my heart? And more importantly, can I overcome my past to make Safe Harbor my future?

FIND ME WORTHY is a hurt/comfort childhood crush-to-lovers MM romance. This unexpected roommate arrangement stars two mature heroes with a minor age gap, mental health representation, and plenty of first times and sexy discoveries for everyone. Deep feels, dual point-of-view, and big fluffy HEA guaranteed.

FIND ME WORTHY is book three and the thrilling conclusion to the Safe Harbor series from acclaimed author Annabeth Albert. This small historic Oregon town has a tight friend group, memorable secondary characters, quirky businesses, and long-held secrets. Each book stands alone with a fresh couple, but the background mystery of the town’s secrets ties the series together, making reading in order more fun!