Tag: A MelanieM Review

Review: Ghostly Bother (Ghostly Book 9) by E.M. Leya 

Rating: 3🌈

I’ve been a fan of the author and this paranormal series for some time now but Ghostly Bother, the ninth book in the series, didn’t hit as well as the rest of the stories.  The storyline, the main characters , the ghost of the plot, everything all came with some sort of flags or issues with the dynamics or functionality in the narrative that bothered me. 

One is the mayor Eden, a nasty woman, who took bribes, was a selfish person and, even in the afterlife is a personality bordering on oblivious selfish self interest and cruelty. Spoiler. She walks into the light after being a bad person in both the living and the afterlife.  Strike 1. 

Because she’s a huge player here in the story and has an enormous role in the next element that put up flags for me. 

That’s the relationship dynamic between Lance, who can interact with the ghosts, and Angus, his detective lover who can’t. But Angus, who has lived with his mother and her best friend, also a ghost, is familiar with ghosts and how they can impact the living. 

So does he (and author Leya) write into their relationship one of an established understanding and support when Lance is constantly harassed 24/7 by Eden, unable to find rest or do his job? No, instead of the dynamic that’s been built of steady work and love, it’s demolished by one act of lack of respect and understanding. This aspect of the story has little foundation based on the previous books and the relationship the author has been building. 

Nor does the quick resolution to this particular problem seem likely or believable. It just doesn’t make sense. 

Unfortunately, the book, plot, mystery does feel particularly well written or thought through.  It’s a miss for me. 

Hopefully the next book will see a return to the original series path. 

Cover Art by: Annabella Stone

GHOSTLY SERIES :

Ghostly Awakening 

Ghostly Findings 

Ghostly Envy 

Ghostly Claus 

Ghostly Target

Ghostly Hostage 

Ghostly Death 

Ghostly Dilemma 

Ghostly Bother 

Ghostly Force (coming soon) 

Ghostly Grandma (coming soon)

Buy link;

        Ghostly Bother

    

Blurb 

When the mayor of Fairway is killed, Angus finds himself thrust into a confusing case of bribery and corruption. While many in the city rejoice over the mayor’s death, the investigation is a nightmare for the police.

Lance wants to be supportive, but when the mayor’s ghost figures out Lance can see and hear her, she won’t leave him alone. Insisting they solve the case as soon as possible, she follows him around, bringing chaos to Lance’s usually simple life.

Feeling stress from every angle, both Angus and Lance struggle to handle everything going on without letting it affect their relationship. Everyone is working to close the case, but it isn’t easy when the victim refuses to share information that could lead to her killer.

Someone is hiding something, and it’s up to Angus and Lance to figure out exactly what that is.

  • Publisher: E.L. Publishing
  • Publication date: July 25, 2025
  • Language: English
  • Print length: 218 pages
  • Book 9 of 9: Ghostly

Review:  Hexes Fly (Caldryn Parliament Book 2) by Jenny Schwartz

 

Rating: 5 ⭐️✨

Jenny Schwartz’s Caldryn Parliament series is one of those series where the books just get more brilliant and more highly complex as the series progresses.  The writing, the incredible characters, and this labyrinthine storytelling is beyond amazing. 

For those readers who dislike cliffhangers, yes, this book, Hexes Fly, ends on a cliffhanger. FYI.

Also there’s really no romance. Just a fantastic science fiction thriller, multiple magical mysteries, a cast of incredibly powerful multidimensional characters, and enough hidden political agents and agendas for a number of galaxies. 

It all starts with Vanda Kavanagh, the Warden of Caldryn Parliament, who is still defining how she will handle the job of Warden while rebuilding it and restoring the Wards and stabilizing the situation that her predecessors have undermined. 

There’s no way to go about describing the complexities and depths of world politics here that Schwartz has and continues to craft. Utterly brilliant. Contains science fiction, magical systems, mythology and more. And it all works perfectly alongside political and military power dynamics. 

To follow this character of Vanda in her journey, the reader must absolutely start with the first book and continue reading forward. But the path is full of action, but never at the expense of forgetting about the human factor. Here it’s two young people who have to face the consequences of their actions and find their way forward. A moving and powerful element of this book. 

The only drawback? Waiting until the next book is released. 

This is an absolute dream of a book and a new must read for me. Highly recommended! 

  

Cover by Jenny Schwartz . I adore these covers!

Caldryn Parliament:

Stars Die #1

Hexes Fly #2

Rogues Lie #3 – Nov 29,2025

Buy link

 Book 2 of 3: Caldryn Parliament 

Blurb 

The Spring Ball on the first Saturday of Caldryn Parliament’s Spring Term is a night of glamour and power.

However, this year the witch clans are feuding, and when rival clans trade curses in the ballroom non-magical bystanders are the victims.

As people transform into animals, burst into unwilling song, or fall into magical slumber Vanda Kavanagh, the Warden of Caldryn Parliament, is suspicious.

The witches claim they never intended to hurt anyone, and Vanda believes them. So, who is using the witches as a stalkinghorse for their own agenda, and what is it that they hope to achieve?

Most importantly, why can’t the witches undo their own hexes?

If the spells aren’t broken by the next full moon the curses will be permanent.

  • Publication date: July 26, 2025
  • Language: English
  • Print length: 346 pages
  • Book 2 of 3: Caldryn Parliament

Review: Fated Mates and How to Seduce Them ( Fated Mates 4 )by AJ Sherwood 

Rating: 4.5🌈

I’ve really enjoyed this series and this might be my favorite one of them all. Watching Ian and vampire Andre navigate through their lives and journey to mates and HEA was funny, sweet and often moving. 

I honestly could have used more scenes of them together shopping for the kids of the home, or Andre using his favorite animated tv shows to teach French.  Or just the family dynamics when Ian got added, it was heartwarming and wonderful.

Unlike some of the other books, this is angst free, even while it does mention some of the worst events with the VSB that happened prior. 

Sherwood’s characters and abilities to craft a story and romance the reader can relate to are excellent and represented by the couple here. 

Another winner and one I’m recommending. 

Fated Mates:

Fated Mates and When to Keep Them #1

Fated Mates and How to Woo Them #2

Fated Mates and Where to Find Them #3

Fated Mates and How to Seduce Them #4

Cover by Katie Griffin

Buy link 

        Fated Mates and How to Seduce Them

    

Blurb 

After Ian Moore steps in to save resident playboy and vampire André Castor from a spiked drink, he expects life to go back to normal. Why, he doesn’t know, but that assumption seems reasonable, right?

Only André doesn’t want it to go back to normal. He’s found a cute, trustworthy human, which is an anomaly in his world. Can’t he just keep Ian?

Ian knows how this game ends, patiently waiting for the playboy to move on…so why is AndrĂŠ proving him wrong? 

Tags:

Finally written in order, I treat canon like a buffet but in a gentle way, new ship here all aboard!, fated mates, vampires and humans, stubborn to lovers, sometimes vampires need to be rescued too, André is part cat, Ian has been adopted and has no idea what to do from here, marriage proposal, love at first sight, or at least Crippling Crush at First Sight, Fluff, so much fluff, I’m not even sorry, Casper the kitty, the VSB is on the eternal shitlist, playboy meets his match, Casper the Cat is a matchmaker, say no to drugs kids, unless the drug is love

  • Publication date: July 25, 2025
  • Language: English
  • Print length: 213 pages
  • Book 4 of 4: Fated Mates

Review:  Spellbound: An MM Paranormal Romance (Mages and Mates Book 5) by Andy Gallo

Rating: 4🌈

I’ve been fully invested in this series, following the Hollen mages as they found their mates along the mysterious path to saving the World and restoring the failing Great Ward. 

But in this last novel, something has been lost. I don’t know if it’s because it’s been a while since I’ve read the series or because there’s so much “information” packed into the narrative that it’s talky as opposed to action filled, but it’s coming across as a bit dense. 

We miss out on any real relationship building between mage Roderick Hollen and Phoenix Cinaed FionnLaoch because apparently they’ve known each other for decades, known they are fated mates but denied it by the Phoenix King. So when the book begins, they are an established couple but we get no chemistry and no real chance to understand the bond, unlike the other books. 

The characters are just not as relatable because Gallo has so much to accomplish with his story that, pulling off the series storyline, solving the mystery and resolving the issues with the villain and the Great Ward that fleshing out the main characters gets left behind. 

The dramatic climax at the end of the book is fantastic, and it’s absolutely the best thing of the story. Pulls together all the couples and the magic for a fabulous finish to the Ward and answers to the villain. 

The book should have ended there because the epilogue felt unnecessary, and anticlimactic. 

This was a highly entertaining and enjoyable series and that last battle went out with a fantastic bang!

If you enjoy fantasy fiction, here’s a series for you. 

Cover Art Š 2025 Alex Corza Published by Gallorious Readers, LLC

Mages and Mates :

Break the Spell #1

It Spells Trouble #2

Under A Spell #3

Cast A Spell #4

Spellbound #5 – finale 

Buy link

        Spellbound: An MM Paranormal Romance (Mages and Mates Book 5)

    

Blurb:

Spellbound

Roderick Hollen met his mate forty years ago. As one half of the fifth guardian pair, Rod knows their destiny is tied to the Great Ward. If it failed before the new one was created, he and his mate will die creating the replacement. There’s just one problem, Ailpein, the phoenix king, has forbidden any phoenix from mating with a mage, and used his powerful magic to enforce his will. No mate bond means no new Great Ward.

Cinaed FionnLaoch burns with frustration at his grandfather’s refusal to lift the mating prohibition. He and Rod have honored his edict for forty years, but now the consequences reach far beyond them. The Earth’s increasingly urgent warnings tell him the Ward is failing, but he’s powerless to fix it unless his grandfather relents. But when King Ailpein vanishes without a trace, he takes with him any hope of lifting the spell.

James Blackstone has spent centuries plotting his revenge against the magical world that destroyed his demon-summoning ancestors. He’s abducted King Ailpein and plans to use the phoenix king’s life force to destroy the barrier separating Hell and Earth. Killing Ailpein will also prevent the new guardians from creating a new Great Ward.

Rod and Cinaed gather the other guardians and race to save Ailpein. But even if they find him, it might already be too late. Their love has survived four decades of separation, but if they don’t reach Ailpein in time, the only way to save the world will cost them their long delayed chance at happiness– and their lives.

Spellbound is a 75K word fated mates romance with lots of magic, sacrifice and a guaranteed happily-ever-after. This is book five of the Mages and Mates series and includes a meticulous plot to destroy the world, proof that love is more powerful than hate, and one very pissed off demon prince.

This is the final book in the series. Reading the first four books is recommended before reading Spellbound.

  • Publication date: July 25, 2025
  • Language: English
  • Print length: 276 pages
  • Book 5 of 5: Mages and Mates

Review: The Magical Beings’ Rehabilitation Center: The Complete Series by  K. M. Shea

Rating: 4⭐️

The Magical Beings’ Rehabilitation Center: The Complete Series is a YA urban fantasy adventure series by K. M. Shea that totally entertaining and full of engaging young fantasy characters from all types of mythology and fantasy worlds. 

Comprised of 5 stories that follows a young human high school student, Morgan L. Fae, who stumbles upon the fact that paranormal beings are real, and some even go to school with her. 

One is her substitute teacher, others her fellow students. Subsequently, she finds out about the MBRC, Magical Beings’ Rehabilitation Center where the fantasy world works towards getting their people integrated into the normal human world and everyday society. 

Morgan’s journey to navigate both her sophomore year in high school, along with her crushes, and her new adventures in her first job as a human tutor in the MBRC is humorous, creative, and engaging. 

It’s funny, because she has the ability to make her situations seem realistic and stressful no matter who she is dealing with and what world she’s currently in. 

What romantic relationships here is limited to a hurried kiss and nothing more. 

Adventure, action, fantasy and high school.  Just wonderful. 

 

A another winner from this author who’s become an auto-read. 

Cover design by Natasha Snow

Buy link

Amazon.comhttps://www.amazon.comThe Magical Beings’ Rehabilitation Center: The Complete Series: Vampires Drink …

Blurb 

Werewolves have fleas. Cyclops need glasses. Dark Elves give villain monologues.

Maybe the magical paranormal world isn’t quite what we expect? 

This special boxset contains the complete urban fantasy series the Magical Beings’ Rehabilitation Center: Vampires Drink Tomato Juice, Goblins Wear Suits, and The Lost Files of the MBRC.

Book 1: Vampires Drink Tomato Juice

Morgan might be losing her sanity. She thought it was a normal day but after witnessing an incident involving a werewolf, a substitute teacher/possible vampire, and a thermos of tomato juice, things get weird. 

A quick train ride later she finds herself at the Chicago headquarters of all things fantastical: the Magical Beings’ Rehabilitation Center. 

At the MBRC Morgan encounters dragons, vampires, elves, centaurs and even the Pooka, a shape-shifter who is too handsome for his own good. 

The MBRC strives to rehabilitate and integrate magical beings into human society. It’s also supposed to be a secret, and Morgan’s accidental initiation breaks every rule the place has. 

Book 2: Goblins Wear Suits

Morgan has settled into a balance between her school work and teaching at the MBRC. But she doesn’t know what she wants after this. 

Her family and friends, including a certain flirtatious Pooka, all have colleges and future career paths for her to consider. Her choices are made even more difficult when terrorist threats are issued by an anti-human, magic-based organization. 

And their main target is Morgan.

Book 3: The Lost Files of the MBRC 

When Morgan decided to stay employed at the Magical Beings’ Rehabilitation Center, she thought her life would quiet down as she started college and developed her career. 

She thought wrong.

The Lost Files of the MBRC is an anthology of five short stories set in the world of the Magical Beings’ Rehabilitation Center series.

  • Publication date: July 4, 2018
  • Language: English
  • Print length: 646 pages

Review:  High Stakes and Soulmates (Fanged Mistakes Book 3) by Alice Winters 

Rating: 3.75🌈

Honestly, as much as I was anticipating this book, I’m surprised at that I didn’t find it as enjoyable as I hoped it would be. 

The characters of Ezio, a vampire who’s been a outsized character in the previous novels, and Cyrus, the human detective who has been circling the inner group here and the object of Ezio’s desire, are both terrific in each way. 

I’ve loved how they both have figured into the weird dynamic between the main couple of Casimir and Julian, as well as dealing with their own personalities and quirks. 

But in their own story, certain aspects either have been completely changed or in one element, or say twist, overwhelmed the whole story. And for me, the twist just doesn’t work.

It was to convoluted, taking the series, story and character into unexpected territory and creating a “as told to” narrative that bogged down the action and flow of the whole story. 

At some parts, it was just page flipping time. 

The best part for me? That entire absolutely hilarious dog show scenes. I out right laughed and laughed. I’d recommend it just for those moments alone. Just fantastic writing and comedic humor. 

So for me, this was a mixed bag after loving the previous books in the series.  As I said, read it because of the series, the author, and some hilarious moments not to be missed. 

But what happened between Cyrus and Ezio? I couldn’t really get into it. 

Fanged Mistakes:

Fake Dates and Fanged Mistakes #1

Dire Straits and Entwined Fates #2

High Stakes and Soulmates #3

Buy link

        High Stakes and Soulmates (Fanged Mistakes Book 3)

    

Blurb 

Ezio

One would think that being over two hundred years old would at least give me some skill at wooing the man of my dreams, though oddly, I seem to be fumbling around more than wooing.

But that’s alright, I will fumble my way right into Cyrus’s life if he lets me. After a rocky start, Cyrus is finally starting to open up to me as he realizes that vampires might not be all bad.

When Cyrus pulls me into a case, he discovers how much he needs me… and my werewolf friend disguised as a detection dog.

My past haunts my every step, but there’s nothing I want more than to leave my mistakes behind and focus on my future with the man I adore.

Cyrus

Death after death draws Ezio and me deeper into a mystery that is tearing through the city. My fear is that whoever is killing these people is toying with us, and I know I can’t figure it out alone.

Thankfully, Ezio is prepared to help me with anything I need (and then some), and he doesn’t come alone. He has Casimir (who is happy as long as Steve isn’t around), Julian (when he’s not naked), and Yorick (why is Yorick here?), who are determined to end this. But what we find is unlike anything we ever imagined.

Though it can’t possibly be worse than the delivery lady walking in on Julian naked again.

Ezio is ready to help me through it (the murder bit, not the Julian bit), if only I can leave my fears behind me long enough to accept the man I want more than anything.

  • Publication date: July 24, 2025
  • Language: English
  • Print length: 354 pages
  • Book 3 of 3: Fanged Mistakes

Review:  Accidental Bond (Damned Mercenaries Book 1) by Mika Nix

Rating: 3.25🌈

Accidental Bond , the first book in the Damned Mercenaries by Mika Nix, is a sequel to the fated mates dragon shifter series, Drake Security. 

I enjoyed that series very much, featuring the Drake family of dragons as they found their fated mates. 

One of the main characters here is related to that family, 

Mika Nix is the combined name of  authors of MM romance, K.M. Neuhold and Mia Monroe, takes a different approach with this series than that of an established close knit family of ancient dragons.  

Here it’s a boss mercenary demon who has obtained a group of mixed paranormal beings to work for him. They,  by contracts obtained by “consent “ , ill conceived bargains, or some other means, now are basically “owned” by the demon, and are forced into his bidding. He calls them his Pets. 

So yes, this immediately has elements that will not sit well with me. When I saw how this series was going, it was close to a DNF, but I did see it through. And there’s some nice things here. 

Mac, the irresponsible Dragon has appeared in the Drake Security series, where he had to be rescued from some very dangerous situations due to his lack of control and overall behavior.  Here, he’s finally getting some good development and growth. 

Too late but he’s on a journey to find his mate. And in one of the better aspects of the story, we find out what and the history behind Mac’s dragon hoard. 

Each of the “Pets” will have a story and find a mate. That’s clear.  

But there’s just enough here that are elements in my auto DNF lists, that I’m stopping. 

Glossing over being tricked into basically a forever servant clause. No. Sentient beings called pets. No. And while the authors have written demon Drax as some sort of cinnamon roll happy bunny, the other Pets/group members clearly have issues here with their roles. 

So I’m noping right out. Others will find it interesting and charming.  Check it out. 

Cover design: Natasha Snow

Drake Security Series (first series)

Damned Mercenaries -sequel series 

Accidental Bond #1

Buy link:

        Accidental Bond (Damned Mercenaries Book 1)

    

Blurb 

I’ve made a lot of mistakes in my life, but accidentally becoming a mercenary for a demon might be the biggest one yet…

My inner dragon has always been more like a devil on my shoulder, talking me into making bad decisions and creating chaos. I have a hoard full of demon artifacts, each one likely to cost me my life if the owners ever come after me.

I thought accidentally becoming a mercenary was the worst mistake I would make in a single day… until I inadvertently mated myself to a demon. It’s not my fault his mating ring was so pretty!

It’ll be fine… all I have to do is fulfill my contract, not do anything else to make things worse, and avoid falling for the surprisingly sweet, himbo demon who thinks I’m his mate. Should be easy… right?

  • Publication date: July 18, 2025
  • Language: English
  • Print length: 231 pages
  • Page Flip: Enabled
  • Book 1 of 1: Damned Mercenaries

Review:  Pack of Dawn and Destiny: The Complete Trilogy by  K. M. Shea

Rating: 4.5⭐️✨

Hunter Pip and Alpha Greyson are a great couple here. The dynamic between them and the fact that a hunter was adopted by a werewolf pack is a wonderful way to frame out their relationship and story. 

There’s several mysteries that come up during this series that must be investigated even as Pip develops her role within the pack and grows stronger as an individual who must learn what and where she belongs. 

Shea’s excellent work in crafting beloved characters and relatable stories shines here as Pip struggles with her perception of her weaknesses among the group of werewolves and her battles with her own ability to accept her role as pack member.  It’s believable and she’s engaging as she figures things out. Including her relationship with Alpha Greyson. 

Other important characters make appearances here, which is a true joy. Including several who have upcoming series. Watch out for a small black cat!

Shea can write a cook blog or whatever she wants . I’ll buy it. I’m that enamored. One note, if you’re looking for spicy romance, this isn’t for you. 

Wonderful mysteries, fantastic characters and world building awaits within!

Highly recommended. 

Cover Art by MoorBooks Design

Pack of Dawn and Destiny: 

Hunted  

United 

Fated 

Magiford Supernatural City is a registered trademark of K. M. Shea LLC.  

The series in order of reading: All Magiford Supernatural City Universe.

  • Hall of Blood and Mercy: The Complete Trilogy ❤️5
  • Court of Midnight and Deception: The Complete Trilogy (Magiford Supernatural City)❤️5
  • Pack of Dawn and Destiny: The Complete Trilogy❤️ 4.5
  • Gate of Myth and Power: The Complete Trilogy (Magiford Supernatural City) ❤️5
  • Magic on Main Street: The Complete Trilogy (Magiford Supernatural City) 5❤️

Buy link

 Part of: Magiford Supernatural City (5 books) 

Blurb 

Ever feel like you don’t belong? Try being a hunter living with werewolves. I’m the definition of “doesn’t fit in”. I’m not Pack, but I’m not the enemy, either.

I struggle to survive among werewolves who are stronger and faster than me, and are competitive enough to break a bone or two for the sake of “fun.”

Greyson, their alpha, is the worst of them all.

Endlessly relentless and twice as deadly, Greyson rules the Pack and expands its territory even though it’s already the largest in the region. I just wish he’d stop interfering with my life. He’s got enough trouble of his own with his incomplete mate bond, but he’s made it his hobby to tease and test me at every opportunity.

Doesn’t my life sound fun?

When wolves from surrounding packs start mindlessly attacking the innocent humans in our city, Timber Ridge, everything changes.

Werewolves don’t turn feral without reason. Which means someone is making this happen, and they’re targeting our Pack.

I don’t like where this is going, but how am I supposed to stop a feral wolf outbreak when I’m just one hunter? Can Greyson and I set aside our differences to see the Pack through this?

With over 38,000 ratings on Amazon and Goodreads, this completed urban fantasy series is packed with humor, adventure, and a sweet, slow burn romance that will have you laughing out loud.

The Magiford Supernatural City universe features vampires, wizards, fae, and werewolves! Start reading this bingeable series now!

This bundle includes all three books in the Pack of Dawn and Destiny Trilogy: Hunted, United, and Fated.

  • Publication date: September 21, 2023
  • Language: English
  • Print length: 968 pages

Review: Court of Midnight and Deception: The Complete Trilogy by  K. M. Shea

Rating: 5✨⭐️🌙

If I thought I loved the first series, this is the one that made me laugh out louder, read passages multiple times, snort giggles, and decide , yup chef’s kiss. 

I’m keeping it. 

Truthfully, I’m binging all the trilogies that Shea has written for the Magiford Supernatural City Universe and while all are fantastic, this remains my all time favorite. 

In fact, when the hilarious characters from this Night Court make their unforgettable appearances in the other series, it’s in scenes that make me laugh out loud and want to immediately start reading this trilogy all over again. 

Leila, half human, half fae, is the gift that keeps on giving. Her voice and character development here is exceptional. And every single element that I thought I’d was waffling about turns into something marvelous and magical here in her journey towards finding her own way in the supernatural realm.  

That means turning the Night Court into something totally new, eventually. 

Hall of Blood and Mercy is full of memorable characters, exploring new magical creatures and areas where this Universe has a mysterious darkness that’s threatening all magic and those who are associated with it. 

 Honestly, I’m so in love with K.M. Shea and her Magiford Supernatural City Universe, this great number of trilogies that I hope will have future episodes to bring to life all the areas we haven’t explored yet. 

Highly recommended for all lovers of urban fantasy stories.

This series:  

Crown of Shadows

Crown of Moonlight 

The Queen’s Crown 

The series in order of reading: All Magiford Supernatural City Universe.

  • Hall of Blood and Mercy: The Complete Trilogy ❤️
  • Court of Midnight and Deception: The Complete Trilogy (Magiford Supernatural City)❤️5
  • Pack of Dawn and Destiny: The Complete Trilogy
  • Gate of Myth and Power: The Complete Trilogy (Magiford Supernatural City)
  • Magic on Main Street: The Complete Trilogy (Magiford Supernatural City)

Cover Art by Covers by Christian

Magiford Supernatural City is a registered trademark of K. M. Shea LLC. 

Buy link

 Part of: Magiford Supernatural City (5 books) 

Blurb 

The fae of the Night Court are desperate to find and crown their new monarch before the Court collapses.

I couldn’t care less.

I’ve done everything I can to bury my fae blood and embrace my human half. That changes when some fae nobles show up on my doorstep and announce that I’m the next Queen of the Night Court.

Becoming an unwilling fae queen? Check. Inheriting a terrible mess? Double check.

The Court is almost bankrupt, my citizens’ favorite hobby is backstabbing one another, and I don’t know who I can trust since someone keeps trying to assassinate me.

Speaking of assassins, I get introduced to the best in the business—a fae lord nicknamed the Wraith. His deadly profession means he fears No. One.

The only reason he doesn’t kill me on the spot is he’s a member of the Night Court and the Court’s magic protects me. But that doesn’t prevent him from trading verbal barbs with me whenever we meet.

And if cat herding uncooperative fae while chatting with assassins wasn’t enough, I’m required to get married as part of some archaic Court law. This “queen” gig is the worst!

Supposedly I can choose anyone to marry, but with all the infighting I need someone who is unaffiliated and won’t cause political power struggles.

So, why do I keep thinking of a certain assassin?

Court of Midnight and Deception is a completed urban fantasy trilogy that takes place in the Magiford Supernatural City universe. It features fae, werewolves, vampires, and wizards! 

With over 28,000 ratings on Amazon and Goodreads, and millions of pages read this trilogy is packed with humor, adventure, and a sweet, slow burn romance between a reluctant fae queen and the assassin who tried to kill her.

This bundle includes all three books in the series: Crown of Shadows, Crown of Moonlight, and the Queen’s Crown.

Review:  Man Advantage by L.A. Witt

Rating: 3.75🌈

Man Advantage by L.A. Witt was a sweet trans m/m hockey romance from an author who writes excellent sports stories.  I did enjoy the second chance, friends reunited elements here as well as the twins who figure greatly in this story. 

The boys are well imagined children, believable at their ages and interactions with their parents and adults around them. 

And Witt’s hockey team and locker room dynamics are all real and grounded in the sports world and teamwork. Just a great example of Witt’s understanding of hockey and how a team’s character unique culture works. 

The romance was good and I enjoyed Cam’s and Trev’s relationship although some aspects of it, especially those that were a part of their resolution of their issues didn’t make sense to me.  And the way all the problems with Trev’s ex started getting smoothed over with one “clearing the air “ semi-fight? Way too easy for all the obstacles that were involved here. 

But it was made clear that therapy was needed and included for all of them, letting them move forward as a mixed family. Which was lovely. 

I enjoyed this, and while not a favorite of Witt’s hockey books, it’s entertaining and sweet. I’m recommending it for everyone who wants a good romance story. 

Cover Art by Lori Witt

Buy link

Amazon.comhttps://www.amazon.comMan Advantage – Kindle edition by Witt, L.A.. Romance Kindle eBooks …

Blurb 

Trev Allen and his ex-husband had an amicable joint custody arrangement. During the hockey season, his ex took the twins whenever Trev’s team was on the road. Easy peasy.

But now, just two weeks before training camp, Trev’s ex gives him an ultimatum—lock down reliable, full-time childcare for Trev’s custody weeks before the start of the season, or his ex is pursuing full custody.

Trev’s in a panic to keep his kids, but as luck would have it, an old friend—and old flame—is also in a jam.

Cam Wright’s ex didn’t just cheat, he kicked Cam out andgot him fired. Cam’s desperate and flailing… until he receives a message from a man he hasn’t seen in years. Now he has hope of getting back on his feet, not to mention reconnecting with his friend and first love.

Cam’s not prepared for how much Trev has glowed up. Trev is stunned by how kind time and a fitness career have been to Cam. The intense attraction is both instantaneous and hotter than ever; living together, it’s only a matter of time before passion ignites.

But Cam is depending on Trev for stability. Trev is depending on Cam to keep joint custody of his kids. Like it or not, they need each other.

Which means if they stop wanting each other, their lives could come unraveled.

Man Advantage is a 99,000-word standalone Trans M/M hockey romance.

  • Publisher: GallagherWitt Publishing LLC
  • Accessibility: Learn more
  • Publication date: July 16, 2025
  • Language: English
  • Print length: 361 pages