Tag: author K.M. Neuhold

Review:  Desperately Delicate Viper (Mafia Bound Book 4) by K.M. Neuhold

Rating: 4🌈

Mafia Bound is a series from K.M. Neuhold that focuses on the Moretti crime family and the romantic relationships and partners each Moretti man finds himself in. It’s usually been with a murderous sociopathic twink of a traumatic background. My favorite couple being Sal and dancer Dante (3) , followed by unhinged Sparrow and the family enforcer, Xaviaro (1). 

The energy, chemistry and sheer insanity that powers these relationships made the storylines and those couples. Each had layers and a certain depth of character that allowed for a realistic development of the relationship between them. 

And that’s really the issue here. While we’ve met Luca, the youngest of the Moretti family prior, we’ve not gotten to know him well.  He’s a puppy, as Dante calls him. Against all the others? He’s definitely not the same factor of darkness or seriousness of damage. He’s too young in his current form. 

And the other main character is also not supported by any foundation or framework of storytelling. Anders is a good character but everything we learn about him comes from a “as told to” approach. We don’t see any interactions between the father he’s terrified of or honestly, of the brother he’s been protecting.  It’s a diminishing aspect of the character’s storyline. 

The positives, seeing Dante and Sal (#couplegoals ) and Sparrow as well as Xav, was fantastic. The energy and intensity they bring to this narrative made it feel so much better.  And the dialogue and dynamics between them as Luca was hilarious. 

Anders and Luca’s instant love romance could have been better if they had more time to establish themselves as a couple. Instead they come off a new, younger version, without the intense energy or interest.

This is the 4th book but I believe there’s more coming.  I’m definitely going to be reading those. 

A terrific series with D/s elements, crime family romances, and lots of sexy men. 

Cover Design Natasha Snow”

Great covers.

Mafia Bound:

  • Deadly Little Sparrow #1
  • Beautifully Savage Butterfly #2
  • Unhinged Little Angel #3
  • Desperately Delicate Viper

Buy link

        Desperately Delicate Viper (Mafia Bound Book 4)

    

Blurb 

That Feeling when the man you just robbed and left tied up and blindfolded turns out to be in the mafia…

I’m not proud of the things I’ve had to do for money to pay off my dad’s debts and put my younger brother through college. But I’ll never regret it.

What I do regret is accidentally robbing a Moretti.

Having to look over my shoulder and ducking every time a car backfires is bad enough, but when the man in question starts costing me business? Yeah, I think we’re going to have a problem.

I never knew I could feel the way I do when Luca Moretti gets on his knees for me, but I don’t have time to be romanced by this obsessed, submissive, mafioso.

No one has ever made me feel as strong and capable as he does. Can I really be the viper he sees me as? If I learn how to bite, can I finally make my life my own with Luca Moretti at my side?

  • Publication date: June 6, 2025
  • Language: English
  • Print length: 203 pages
  • Book 4 of 4: Mafia Bound

Review:  Unhinged Little Angel (Mafia Bound Book 3) by K.M. Neuhold

Rating: 4.75🌈

K.M. Neuhold ‘s delightfully murderous romance series ,Mafia Bound,  just got another great new addition in Unhinged Little Angel.

The Moretti Crime family continues to expand as each family member finds their own unique romantic HEA, usually with an equally compelling, twisted personality. 

Mafia Bound has its center in the powerful crime family, the Morettis, run by big brother, Lorenzo Moretti.  The first story, which I loved, featured his enforcer, the Ice Man,  Xaviaro Saviano, and his romance with Sparrow, an assassin with an agenda. They are seen again here in all their loving psychotic glory. Perfection.

Dante is the near feral, violent , extremely popular dancer at the Moretti’s nightclub, Wild, that we know from previous books. He’s also got mad  hacker skills which have come in handy in past events.  

The lustfuf focus of many, it’s Salvador Moretti who’s decided that Dante is more than just a dancer, something Dante has noticed.  And plays into Dante’s plans when he decides he needs help to solve a past situation that arises. In an absolutely hilariously mad scheme, Dante “kidnaps “ Sal  to force him into a Las Vegas style marriage.

This entire storyline is amazing. I laughed, it’s perfect in further developing these incredibly intense complex characters in a situation that’s part sitcom and crime drama. The location, clothes , the way Nuehold flips up between them as the emotionally charged situation changes moment by moment, letting the reader into the thoughts of each of them as the night progresses. 

This series is a favorite of this author’s and this couple quickly became my personal favorite too. Dante is so well written that he’s both able to be realistically vulnerable yet still a raw, violently angry man, striking out like a viper.  And Sal is both a deadly criminal threat as well as an old time romantic, intelligent, capable of deep emotional commitment.  They are a perfect combination. 

And this turns out to be a fantastic story. Funny, violent, romantic and sexy. It adds to the growing Moretti family and moves the narrative forward about the antagonism between the Fitzgerald crime family and theirs. 

And sets up Luca for his own romance next. 

So happy there’s more Moretti’s in need of partners. Loving this series and definitely recommending it.

Cover Design Natasha Snow Cover Photography by Xram

Great covers.

Mafia Bound:

  • Deadly Little Sparrow #1
  • Beautifully Savage Butterfly #2
  • Unhinged Little Angel #3
  • Desperately Delicate Viper #4 – June 6,2025

Buy link

        Unhinged Little Angel (Mafia Bound Book 3)

    

Blurb 

Forcing Salvatore Moretti to marry me at gunpoint isn’t the craziest thing I’ve ever done… 


I hate being desperate, being scared. It’s a filthy, helpless feeling. I’d much rather be enraged, violent… unhinged. 

Salvatore watches me dance and calls me Angioletto, his little angel. He doesn’t know the demons that haunt me. He’s too blinded by my beauty to see the blood on my hands. Then again, he’s a mafia capo, so maybe the blood wouldn’t bother him anyway. 

My past is like fire licking at my heels, ready to consume me. But Sal won’t let that happen, he’ll protect me. He has to. 

I learned a long time ago not to trust anyone but myself. It’s dangerous the way he manages to unravel all of my defenses and turn me from a guarded Dom into the submissive brat I’ve never felt safe enough to be. It’s terrifying the way I’m starting to crave him. 

I wasn’t sure I would live long enough to worry about this marriage starting to feel real, but this well-dressed mafioso might just manage to save my life after all. We can argue about divorce once the threat is neutralized I suppose. And in the meantime, he is my husband, I might as well enjoy the perks…

  • Publication date: April 4, 2025
  • Language: English
  • Print length: 255 pages

Review:  Handy (Four Bears Construction Book 8) by K.M. Neuhold

Rating: 4.5🌈

It’s fantastic to be back in Fall Crosse, Wisconsin , the small town that’s the heart and home of K.M. Neuhold’s three interconnected contemporary romance series. Four Bears Construction Company launched them all and the author is keeping the series going and heartwarmingly fresh with the latest release, Handy. 

It’s the eighth book and it’s wonderful. While I’ll always love Stone and Dare’s romance because it’s just hilarious, Neuhold had me at park ranger and bird nerd with Ledger.  While there were other aspects of Ledger that had me sighing ( not in a good way, it’s the raccoon) , Neuhold represents his job (low pay, high knowledge, passionate) extremely well. Neuhold writes layered, believable characters. 

Griff too was a great character. One easy to emphasize with, as he’s in stasis, the loss of his husband, his own grief and inability to understand how to let go and move forward keeping him emotionally and in a way, physically isolated.  So well written.  We can understand this man and why he’s allowed himself to get mired down. 

Until Ledger, that human vibrating ball of fantastic positivity and bear crushing energy next door comes calling. Or maybe  more accurately his DIY house does. And his pet raccoon, TP.  

I will admit to the fact of someone, even a ‘Ranger’, having a raccoon as a pet is an issue for me because of past experiences that have not gone well for the animals. But the way Neuhold realistically describes the huge damage the raccoon does to the house (holes chewed constantly in the walls) and furniture as a fact of its every day life made this aspect of the storyline well documented.  Thank you for relating that wildlife comes with wildlife instincts. 

The relationship that develops between Griff and Ledger is one I adore.  They flirt, or Ledger does and Griff slowly moves forward towards acceptance that he’s ready for a new relationship and love.  They communicate, get sexy, Ledger imparts bird facts and together they become a couple who is engaging, realistic, and heartwarming.

Plus those are some truly special bird facts! I’d be won over. 

Ledger has a best friend who is also a park ranger, Jericho, a single man in search of his HEA. I suspect his story is coming.  Although it may be in the Ink Slingers series. 

I love the series and Handy is among my favorites here.  I’ve listed them all below as well as the two other connected series. 

Be sure to check them out. Highly recommended. 

Book and Cover design by Natasha Snow Designs

Four Bears Construction :

Caulky #1 (Ren and Cole)

Nailed #2 (Dare and Stone)

Hardwood #3 (Watson and Ev)

Screwed #4 (Ollie and Daniel)

Stud #5 (Sawyer and West)

Stripped #6 (Miller and Demetri)

Drilled #7 (Apollo and Ridge)

Handy #8 (Griff and Ledger)

Connecting sequel series, same town and crossover characters:

🔷Big Bull Mechanics (5 books to date series)

 🔷Ink Slingers (2 book to date series)

Buy link

        Handy (Four Bears Construction Book 8)

    

Blurb 

My new neighbor may be grumpy but he’s also hot, and very good with his hands…

I definitely overestimated my own handyman skills when I bought this fixer-upper. I have to say, the view from my new place is worth it though. Especially around seven o’clock every morning when my big, furry bear of a neighbor drinks his coffee shirtless on his back porch.

He’s dedicated to the bear thing too. Growly, grumpy, and as it turns out, he really likes belly rubs.

Am I a sucker for a touch starved grump? Yes. Am I sorry about it? Absolutely not.

Getting Griff into my house and into my bed is the easy part. Convincing him I’m actually interested in him is so much harder.

I didn’t mean to turn myself into his secret admirer, but if sending him anonymous presents and notes is the only way to wear down his gruff exterior, then that’s what I’m going to do.

Sooner or later he’ll realize he’s more than just my grumpy handyman, right?

Handy is a super low angst, high heat, romantic comedy featuring a grumpy “Bear” (not the shifter kind 😉 ), and his sunshiney neighbor who becomes his secret admirer. It can be read as a stand alone but the most enjoyment will be from reading it as part of the full Four Bears Construction Series.

  • Publication date: February 3, 2025
  • Language: English
  • Print length: 208 pages

Review: Deadly Little Sparrow (Mafia Bound Book 1) by K. M. Neuhold

Rating: 4.5🌈

Deadly Little Sparrow is K. M. Neuhold first book in the new Mafia Bound series and it’s one wild, sexy dark ride. It’s a great combination of revenge, romance, and a combustible red hot D/s relationship set in a crime family environment and potential territory fights.

All that and some well crafted, delicious characters made for a strong story that I didn’t put down until it was over.

The basis is the Italian crime family headed by Lorenzo Moretti. I suspect each member will have their own story but we start with their enforcer/assassin, the Angel of Death, Xaviaro Saviano. Deadly, calm, bespoke suits and Italian loafers. He’s extremely efficient and considered a member of the family. Everything in his life is just rote until he runs into trouble in the form of a revenge seeking Sparrow.

I enjoy the dichotomy between them. It’s the vibrating, smaller rage-filled Sparrow who fills the void and energy here, up against the almost rock like calm of the huge assassin. Until they actually clash, and the upheaval begins.

Their relationship is one of extraordinary chemistry, D/s, and it absolutely works. Neuhold weaves together their growing desire for each other, along with Sparrow’s hunt for revenge as well as how it’s impacting Xav’s job and professional dynamics. It’s multilayered and well executed.

The author introduces the readers to the rest of the family, exploring the Moretti universe and encroaching crime families, while also revealing more about Sparrow and Xaviaro’s own histories.

For readers who might be anticipating scenes of extreme violence, read the trigger warnings. However, I will say I believe that this is on the less extreme side of the dark spectrum when it comes to these kinds of fiction. That’s my opinion at any rate.

If I had a small quibble, it was that the end was tied up too tightly and quickly. After all that build up, it felt like the revenge aspect was rushed and reduced to a few moments. Did parts of it ring true? Yes, those responsible probably didn’t know what Sparrow was referring to. Too many crimes had passed. So maybe it did make sense to have it happen that way. You decide what you think.

I’m definitely recommending Deadly Little Sparrow and can’t wait for the next book in the series to be released. A absolute winner.

Great cover too. Definitely drew my attention!

Mafia Bound:

✓ Deadly Little Sparrow #1

◦ Beautifully Savage Butterfly #2 – Sept 6,2024

Buy link

Deadly Little Sparrow (Mafia Bound Book 1)

Blurb

Is there such thing as love at first bar fight?

I may be small and pretty, but what I lack in intimidation factor, I make up for in violence.

I made a vow five years ago that the motorcycle club responsible for my brother’s death would pay the price, and I’m finally ready to collect. May God have mercy on the men who hurt my brother, because I don’t plan to.

Accidentally breaking the nose of the deadliest man in the city wasn’t my best move. Xaviaro Saviano, trigger man for the Moretti Crime Family… and now my own personal stalker. But if I have to go through him to deliver well-deserved justice, so be it.

As strange as it sounds, Xaviaro seems to want to help me more than he wants to hurt me. I can’t shake the man no matter what I do. Threatening him feels like foreplay, tying him up only turns him on… I could play nice, but that’s never been my strong suit.

I’d be lying if I said he wasn’t starting to grow on me, especially when he calls me his Deadly Little Sparrow from his knees. I’ve never met a man who could handle me, let alone one who can’t stop begging me for more.

Can love and revenge live in the same heart? I guess there’s only one way to find out…

• Publication date: June 7, 2024

• Language: English

• Print length: 293 pages

Review: Stroker (Big Bull Mechanics #2) by K.M. Neuhold

Rating: 5🌈

Stroker, second novel in the Big Bull Mechanics series, is such a strong, emotional story. Not just a romance but the journey of two men back together, their individual struggles with their past history (together and their own), and their current shaky status to discover if they can learn to grow and trust enough to have a relationship.

Honestly, the bar has been set high by this story for any that follows it.

Gates, Steele’s 40 ish younger brother, who’s always been a family disaster and vagabond, is someone we met in Crankshaft. Gates was undergoing a personal physical crisis that made him return to his hometown after a significant amount of time traveling around the country.

The mystery and pain hinted at there between Gates and Tallahassee is delved into fully here, along with Gates dealing with the ramifications of his surgery for testicular cancer.

Somehow , the Big Bull Garage works so well as a grounding point for the men of the series and the story. Like a family’s kitchen table, the garage acts like a center where everyone comes together to work, chat, reflect, act as a Greek chorus on each other’s lives. It feels believable and , ‘wipe the grease from your hands’ sort of real.

Tallahassee has been working with Steele, his best friend, hiding the pain that still feels so raw whenever he sees Gates, the man he used to call a friend, the one everyone calls a screwup, the man he married and who left him eight years ago.

Tallahassee is a great character. With a pet parrot with a smutty mouth, Tallahassee’s anguish over Gate’s return, then his illness, then his close proximity is so raw , and torn. Neuhold makes Tal’s indecisiveness and anger absolutely understandable.

But so does the author make us and Tal eventually understand that Gates has been growing up, especially since his operation. He’s making internal changes. Ones the readers are there with him, as the revelations hit. Sad, painful revelations about himself and his decisions. And how they have effected others and his family.

It’s so moving, and emotionally realistic the way Tallahassee and Gates slowly find their way back into each other’s trust and hearts. They communicate, share their fears, and hopes. It’s fragile. Especially when Gates is confronting his fears about his scars and the ramifications from his surgery.

This is what makes this so wonderful to read.

I felt like I was sharing a special moment with them. And Nigel, the parrot, of course.

Stroker is sexy, sensitive, beautifully written with fantastic, well defined characters. One of my favorites!

I’m highly recommending it.

Big Bull Mechanics:

✓ Crankshaft #1

✓ Stroker #2

Book 2 of 2: Big Bull Mechanics

Synopsis:

Is there an easy way to tell your lifelong best friend that you secretly married his brother eight years ago? Asking for a friend…

When Gates shows up needing a place to crash , I offer him my spare room. Whatever happened between us nearly a decade ago is water under the bridge. I don’t lie awake at night wondering what could have been. Nope, definitely not.

But Gates seems determined to get a rise out of me. He’s tie-dyed all my clothes, removed my bedroom door, and replaced my hand soap with lube. I’m not sure if he’s hoping I’ll kick him out or kill him, but he won’t break me that easily.

When he tells me his Stroker Rod is broken… What kind of mechanic am I if I don’t get hands-on with his problem?

We put our feelings behind us a long time ago, and there’s no way I’ll let Gates break my heart again. No amount of fiddling under the hood will fix everything broken between us. From here on out, it’s purely physical. Right?


Yup, just a couple of guys and their stroker rods.

***Stroker is a best friend’s brother, secretly married, super steamy MM romance.

🔹Connected to The Four Bears Construction Company series.

———-

Unless it’s noted, all books reviewed have been purchased by the reviewer.

☃️❄️❄️Scattered Thoughts and Rogue Words Favored Holiday Reads this 2021!❄️❄️☃️

12 Days of Christmas (or Whatever you Celebrate) Reading List!

❄️Tis the season for holiday stories and I’ve read some outstanding ones so far, one’s that made me roar with laughter, some that had me reaching for the tissues, and so many that had me shaking my head at the mad writing skills and imagination of the authors represented on the list here.

⛸❄️Here’s my list of Scattered Thoughts and Rogue Words 12 Days of the Holidays 2021 Favorites to Read!🎄⛄️

⭐️Merry Measure by Lily Morton

❄️Cosy & Chill by Jackie Keswick

❄️Christmas Wish List (Hartbridge Christmas #2) by N.R. Walker*

❄️A Very Genre Christmas by Kim Fielding

❄️The Christmas Tenor (Laurel Holidays #3) by V. L. Locey

❄️Dreidels & Do Overs by Kim Fielding

❄️Snowed (Boston Rebels #3) by R.J. Scott and V.L. Locey

❄️The Geek Who Saved Christmas by Annabeth Albert

❄️Merry Elf-ing Christmas by Beth Bolden

❄️Gingerbread Mistletoe (Lighthouse Bay #2) by Amy Aislin*

❄️Holigay by K.M. Neuhold

❄️The Wishing Tree by R.J. Scott

⛄️❄️Just Missed the 12 Days of Christmas list…barely…mostly because I wanted 12….

✓ Dearest Malachi Keogh (Dearest Milton James #1.5) by N.R. Walker

✓ Ethan and Jag Destroy the World by Maz Maddox

✓ The Fairy Dance by Tara Lain

✓ The Holiday List (Script Club #4) by Lane Hayes

✓ Tic-Tac Mistletoe Christmas by NR Walker

✓ Christmas Lane (Lighthouse Bay #1) by Amy Aislin

There were a couple of Christmas series above that I loved. They are indicated by a *, so gather up all the books there.

Honestly many authors are listed multiple times because they just rocked the holiday tales! That includes a review to come on the wonderful On A Midnight Clear by Lily Morton so it will be on an updated and expanded End of Year list

Have I left out some of your favorites this season? Let me know! I’m always on the hunt for new authors and stories. Or just plain out stuff I missed.

It’s just me now, and since I’m buying the books I’m reading , I actually have a TBR list that’s growing. 😂🤷‍♀️Help me add to it. **

Happy Holidays whatever you may celebrate from myself and my blog, Scattered Thoughts and Rogue Words.

** (No DSP or related businesses pls, Ty).

BLOG TOUR for Heel (Working Out the Kinks #2) by KM Neuhold

Heel

Working Out the Kinks Series, Book 2

K.M. Neuhold

M/M Romance/Daddy/puppy play

Release Date: 08.02.19

Heel Final (1)

Blurb

“I’ve never thought of calling a man Daddy before, but I can’t think of a word that fits Vale better. He’s my Daddy, and I’m his pup.”

 

Broken and bruised, there’s nothing I won’t do to protect Adrian. I picked him up and made him whole before, and I’ll do it again. Adrian is a sweet pup with a smile full of sunshine and a heart made for love. A sweet pup needs a gentle hand, and that’s exactly what I intend to give him.

 

There’s nothing quite like slipping an expensive pair of high heels onto Adrian’s feet and watching him light up. If he wants a fairytale, I’ll happily be his Prince Charming.

 

*Heel is the second book in the Working Out the Kinks series but can be read as a stand-alone. This book contains a scene of domestic violence. This book also contains an adorable man who loves to be a puppy, fabulous high heels, and the happily ever after Adrian deserves.

Buy Link: mybook.to/Heel

Heel teaser 2

Heel teaser 3

Excerpt

“Be still, Sunshine,” Vale says commandingly, giving my body no choice but to obey, going limp in his arms. “You’re the most tempting, insanity inducing man I’ve ever met,” he accuses affectionately, my mind short circuiting when his lips brush against the base of my neck.

“Please,” I whimper again.

“Shh,” he soothes. “I want you to listen, because this is what we’re going to do.”

The calm domination in his tone settles the place deep inside me that craves direction and structure, to be taken care of by someone who knows better than I do.

“Yes,” I say breathlessly.

“Good boy. Now, first you’re going to give me your fingers to lick clean because I don’t think I can go another minute without a taste.” I groan in agreement, and he brushes another kiss against the back of my neck. “Then, we’re going to get out of bed, and I’m going to make breakfast. We’re going to talk about that kiss and where we go from here.”

Part of me wants to argue that talking is overrated, that I’d much rather have him bury himself inside me, and we can figure things out sweaty and screaming instead of talking over coffee. But the other part of me, the part that went all mushy and calm at the use of his Dom voice, is ready to give Vale anything he asks for if he’ll just tell me I’m his.

“Yes,” I answer, and he groans his approval, his cock jerking against my ass, clearly excited by my easy submission. I’ll say yes to anything to hear him make that sound again.

With great effort, I manage to let go of my cock. Vale’s grasp is still around my wrist, guiding my hand, making sure to slick my fingers with more precum before pulling it out of my underwear and to his mouth. I moan as his hot lips engulf my fingers, sucking them in and holding them in place as his tongue flicks over the tips, seeking out every drop of my arousal.

He grunts as he sucks my fingers clean, my eyes rolling back in my head as I imagine exactly how the same treatment would feel farther south.

“God, you taste even better than I imagined,” he praises in a raspy voice when he finally releases my fingers.

“You imagined what I’d taste like?”

“You have no idea, Sunshine.”

KM Neuhold Logo__

Author K.M.Neuhold is a complete romance junkie, a total sap in every way. She started her journey as an author in new adult, MF romance, but after a chance reading of an MM book she was completely hooked on everything about lovely- and sometimes damaged- men finding their Happily Ever After together. She has a strong passion for writing characters with a lot of heart and soul, and a bit of humor as well. And she fully admits that her OCD tendencies of making sure every side character has a full backstory will likely always lead to every book having a spin-off or series. When she’s not writing she’s a lion tamer, an astronaut, and a superhero…just kidding, she’s likely watching Netflix and snuggling with her husky while her amazing husband brings her coffee.

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A Vivacious Review: Heel (Working Out the Kinks #2) by K.M. Neuhold

Rating: 3.75 Stars out of 5

Adrian finds himself in a bad relationship but when the relationship turns violent he finds himself broken.

While trying to put back all the pieces of himself together he once again finds himself seeking Vale, the person who helped him stand on his feet before.

 Can Vale help Adrian find all the parts of himself especially the parts that make being a puppy so much of a joy for Adrian?

This book felt so good. The entire time I was reading it, I was just so happy. Despite the fact that at the beginning of this story Adrian is not in a happy place, the story always feels good. So even when things are bad you know it will all work out in the end. I didn’t know how much I was craving that feel-good factor that this book has it in oodles.

Adrian is a pup who finds himself in a tough position when his boyfriend turns violent but he gets himself out of the situation and puts himself back together slowly but surely. I really liked his spirit despite the fact that he is beaten up he finds in himself the strength to show up and be strong. I admired Adrian a lot once he was on the path to recovery he grows brighter every day till it is almost infectious and I loved seeing him happy.

Vale is amazing, amazing. I remember him from the first book and he was a fascinating character even then. I’m glad he found everything he was looking for.

It is so delightful to see these two together. They are perfect for each other. I loved how Vale treats Adrian and how he helps him get all his confidence back. This story does justice to these two amazing characters.

The pacing of the plot is, however, a bit irregular. When the story starts things just keep happening one after the other which really got me invested into the characters and the plot but then somewhere at the three quarters mark in this book absolutely nothing is happening and the worst part is that you know the story isn’t finished so you are just on high alert waiting for something to pop up and I didn’t like the feeling of having to wait for something to happen while reading a book. Then towards the end, the author brings up two big plot points that needed to get solved and proceeds to do it in the last 15% of the book. Personally, I believe if the author had taken one of the plot points and solved it earlier while making us aware of the other. I would have enjoyed the story more especially during that part three quarters into the story where there was a significant lull in the plot.

All things said and done, I needed this book and its highly hopeful tone. I really loved Adrian & Vale and their story. Also, it was so much fun seeing Jonah and Lars again. I really loved them in the first book and it was good to see them all settled in this one.

Cover Art by K.M. Neuhold is gorgeous. Even before I knew that the collar on the cover is actually Adrian’s collar in the book, something about that collar just screamed Adrian to me. It’s weird how much that collar can help you get an idea of who Adrian is. Also, everything aside that cover is still gorgeous even if it didn’t tie in as perfectly as it does with the story it would still be pretty but this way it is perfect.

Buy Link: mybook.to/Heel

Book Details:

ebook, 284 pages
Published August 2nd 2019
Series Working Out the Kinks #2

Don’t Miss Out on the Release Blitz for Heel (Working Out the Kinks #2) by K.M. Neuhold (excerpt)

Heel RDB Banner

Heel

Working Out the Kinks Series, Book 2

K.M. Neuhold

M/M Romance/Daddy/puppy play

Release Date: 08.02.19

Heel Final (1)

Blurb

“I’ve never thought of calling a man Daddy before, but I can’t think of a word that fits Vale better. He’s my Daddy, and I’m his pup.”

Broken and bruised, there’s nothing I won’t do to protect Adrian. I picked him up and made him whole before, and I’ll do it again. Adrian is a sweet pup with a smile full of sunshine and a heart made for love. A sweet pup needs a gentle hand, and that’s exactly what I intend to give him.

There’s nothing quite like slipping an expensive pair of high heels onto Adrian’s feet and watching him light up. If he wants a fairytale, I’ll happily be his Prince Charming.

*Heel is the second book in the Working Out the Kinks series but can be read as a stand-alone. This book contains a scene of domestic violence. This book also contains an adorable man who loves to be a puppy, fabulous high heels, and the happily ever after Adrian deserves.

Buy Link: mybook.to/Heel

Excerpt

“If you’re not careful, you’re going to spoil me,” Adrian warns as I hold the spoon to his lips to feed him the last bite of our dessert.

“I already told you, you’re mine. It’s my prerogative to spoil my pup if I want to.”

The happiness on his face is worth a little bit of spoiling.

Eventually we leave the restaurant, and I claim his hand for our walk back to the car.

“Oh shoot, my shoe strap is all messed up, hold on one second,” he says as we make our way down the sidewalk.

Without hesitation, I stoop down, my knees hitting the rough pavement, no doubt doing a number on my fancy ass pants, but I couldn’t give less of a fuck. I find the offending strap, twisted and rubbing against the delicate ridge of Adrian’s foot. Nimbly, I slide my finger under it to right it. Adrian wobbles on his feet briefly, his hands clutching at my shoulders for balance before he topples.

When his strap is fixed, I tilt my head to look up at him, his slight frame towering over me for a change, a look of awe and surprise painting his pretty face. I take his right hand off my shoulder and bring it to my lips, brushing a kiss on his palm before standing up and brushing off my pants.

“Thank you, sir,” he says in a breathy sort of whisper.

“Hey, none of that ‘sir’ stuff,” I scold gently. Normally, I’d let a pup call me whatever he likes, but after what Adrian went through at the hands of the last man he called sir, it leaves a bad taste in my mouth.

“What should I call you then?” he asks, curiosity and a hint of playfulness dipping into his tone.

Daddy, I want to say. The overwhelming need to take care of him and love him almost knocks the breath out of me. It’s such an intimate word; do I have the right to ask for it yet?

“Please, tell me,” he begs when I don’t answer right away.

“Daddy,” I say, keeping my eyes locked on his to gauge his reaction. His pupils dilate, and his cheeks pink again.

“Daddy,” he whispers, the word sounding entirely too perfect. I lean forward so I can taste it on his lips. He sways close, clutching my chest with his good hand as he sighs into my mouth.

“Let’s go home, Sunshine,” I suggest, nipping at his bottom lip.

“Yes, Daddy.”

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Author K.M.Neuhold is a complete romance junkie, a total sap in every way. She started her journey as an author in new adult, MF romance, but after a chance reading of an MM book she was completely hooked on everything about lovely- and sometimes damaged- men finding their Happily Ever After together. She has a strong passion for writing characters with a lot of heart and soul, and a bit of humor as well. And she fully admits that her OCD tendencies of making sure every side character has a full backstory will likely always lead to every book having a spin-off or series. When she’s not writing she’s a lion tamer, an astronaut, and a superhero…just kidding, she’s likely watching Netflix and snuggling with her husky while her amazing husband brings her coffee.

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A MelanieM Review:Strike a Chord (Replay #4) by K.M. Neuhold

Rating: 4.5 stars out of 5

“You want to fake date me?”

Music is my life, my band is my heart and soul, and it’s all falling apart before my eyes.

A plan hatched from desperation as we both watch our careers burn down around us. Dating my best friend’s twin brother, Paris, who just so happens to be a gay icon at the moment seems like the perfect plan. And if we have a little fun along the way, where’s the harm in that? The band is spiraling, his football career is going up in flames, and the more the world falls down around us, the easier it is to get lost in each other.

But are stolen moments during our own busy schedules and hurried kisses hidden behind social media posts the basis for a real relationship, or is this just another thing that’s going to turn to dust in our hands?

**Strike a Chord is the fourth and final book in the Replay series. This series can be read in any order.

Tying up a series can always be a tricky business, especially if the series has rested its foundation on more than one couple.  In this case, its a band. K.M. Neuhold has stretched the arc over five books.  One a foundation story called Rock Bottom which shows the band Downward Spiral on the edge of imploding due to the personal problems of some of the band members after years of being together and incredible success. After that each band member gets their own story (which I have listed at the bottom of this review).  We see the band, their rise, each person’s demon’s and the SO, the relationship, the issues, and finally how it’s resolved for a HEA for that couple.  But the future of the band?  That’s left to this story and so is Benji, the last band member to get his HEA.

Strike a Chord (Replay #4) by K.M. Neuhold finally gets around to Benji, the “good” member of Downward Spiral, the one that can always be counted on not to bring the drama or any trouble, the stable one.  I am thrilled that Benji finally gets his time in the spotlight, his time to shine because he so deserves it.  Often the lowkey one in all the other stories, here Benji gets to take the stage and oh, my, how he takes command.

With his long flowing hair, elvish beauty, and lean body, Benji is gorgeous although in high school Paris initially thought mistook him for a pretty girl.  From the back at a locker in the hallway.    But that was the last time.  Then Benji turned around and Paris was lost.  And confused and totally in the closet until years later in the NFL.  Not so his twin brother Landon and Benji’s best friend also since high school.   Those two came out together, were inseparable until Benji and his band left for the road and success.

Strike a Chord begins with both men arriving almost at the same place in their careers and both dreading the future.  Benji believing his band will lose their contract and break up because of the deep personal issues of the others, including one back in the hospital and Paris ending his football career because of an injury and his age.  Neither knows exactly what is ahead of them or how to handle it.  Going home seems like the only answer for both.

The characterizations are quiet and fully realized.  I say quiet because while they lack the huge drama and specific medical or addiction issues of the others, the qualities of these men are no less compelling and real because they aren’t as angst driven as rest.  What starts off as a way to keep both men in the media while they figure out what happens next to themselves and their careers and lives becomes a believable and real relationship readers connect with.  It’s backed up by years of history between them so no case of instant love exists here. No, in fact the opposite exists, that both men have been in love with each other since high school and now, finally, get their chance at love and HEA.  After clearing up quite a few misconceptions and misunderstandings of course.

I enjoyed the Christmas family scenes (both families), the snow and the escape to the island paradise.  It was all so lovely and heartwarming. Just the delicious reconnection between them all over again?  Oh my word!   I read several passages over and over for the sweetness and the hotness combined.

The ending and the wrapup is everything I hoped for.  Sexy, all inclusive with all the band and their mates involved and happy ever after for all.  Every loose end tied up with a bow.  And awaiting some rice!  Yes, color me happy and recommending this book and this series.

If you love rock stars on a search for HEA, grab up this series.  Each member is very different and offers something for everyone as does their mate and storyline.  But I promise you each and every one gets their HEA and its a wonderful journey to take with them all the way to the end.  I loved every page of it.

Cover art is just not something I liked.  That’s not either mc.  Paris is a big brawny football player.  Benji?  Long flowing gold hair that is often up in a main bun, thin elvish gorgeous face and long, lean body.  Uh, no.

Sales Links:  Amazon

Book Details:

Kindle Edition, 216 pages
Published May 14th 2019
ASINB07RMZT7FN
Edition Language English
Series Replay #4

Replay Series with links to Goodreads:

Rock Bottom meet the band

Face the Music #1 Lincoln

Play it by Ear #2 Lando

Beat of Their Own Drum #3 Jude

Strike a Chord #4 Benji and the series finale