Tag: Scattered Thoughts Highly Recommended

Review: Broken In by B.A. Tortuga

Rating: 5🌈

Broken In, B.A. Tortuga’s new release , is definitely my favorite of all her most recent stories.

It’s got all the elements I expect from a B.A. Tortuga tale, but elevated into well developed, beautifully defined book, where every aspect of the story and all the characters damaged past histories flow smoothly into a believable reunion and grounded heartfelt loving future.

The start doesn’t reflect the depth the story and characters will achieve as the story unfolds. First it’s a bit of the men’s combined past, their failure as Greyson Hayden is asked to leave his home and his lover of many years due to his alcoholism. Kyler Lassiter has packed up Greyson’s bags and told him to get help, get sober. Because he doesn’t love Kyler enough to do it together.

It’s a heartbreaking scene for all it’s shortness.

Fast forward to a successful now sober Greyson Hayden who’s returning to the small town he left as a drunk and the ex who asked him to leave.

Tortuga doesn’t shy away from the very human mixed bag of emotions Hayden is bringing with him to town. Tortuga writes believable people, and that means that they come with feelings and thoughts that aren’t always very admirable.

It’s all Greyson to begin with in the narrative. He’s been through the program, he’s got a sponsor he’s working with (we meet him later), he’s realistic about being a alcoholic. But he’s also someone who’s still hurting over the past. Right or wrong.

And just when the reader wants to give him a kick in the conscience about who’s to blame for his actions, Greyson himself gives himself a mental talking to, and corrects course.

Because he’s become a responsible adult. He’s grown up. And just like that , human foibles and all, you are in this man’s corner.

Which is exactly what the story and character needs when the reunion happens.

I won’t spoil Kyler Lassiter for you and his part of the story. It’s huge. It’s so emotional. It’s also realistic in keeping with the character and the setting. But how I love that man. He might be one of Tortuga’s finest characters.

I’ll leave it at that.

Showcased here at the highest level are the following elements:

⁃ The author’s ability to fully explore with grace and sensitivity important topics such as alcoholism and disabilities within the framework of her characters.

⁃ Tortuga’s regional knowledge of the land and culture to enrich the story and characters by creating a foundation so real it’s never in doubt.

⁃ This extended to the love of horses as well as bulls here. The horses were a living, breathing part of this book. I felt them as much as the people. Same went for Snow.

⁃ Food. Enchiladas, breakfast burritos, stuffed sopapillas, tacos, “Christmas flat enchiladas with an egg”, stuffed sopapilla with ground beef, guac, and Christmas”, and just like that my mouth is watering and I need to have a seat in that restaurant with them! Then honey and fried bread. Hmmmm.

⁃ Tortuga’s cellular level talent with colloquialisms. There’s the familiar Lord have mercy and God help me, but also the perfect

“Pie crust promises.”

Broken In by BA Tortuga

If that doesn’t describe a promise that’s temporary I don’t know what does.

I found a new one here, asking for Christmas as in:

““Do you want green, red, or Christmas?” “Christmas, please.” Ky beamed at him. “I love both types of chile.””

— Broken In by BA Tortuga

Again, don’t you just want to go ask for some of whatever they are having just to say that?

The author’s ability to craft dialogue that’s grounded in the region, as well as the people is outstanding. It contributes to pulling us into their lives, the universe, and all the emotions playing out in the situations they find themselves in.

One last thing. The realism as it pertains to the medical aspects of this story. That’s a raw deal for so many people who live in area like the ranches here where care is so spread out that what’s offered is almost nonexistent. It’s a reality faced here inside the story and for many in real life.

Combined with all the other elements here, it makes Broken In by BA Tortuga one of the most amazing contemporary romances I’ve read lately.

I’m highly recommending this. It went very quickly, including that wonderful epilogue.

Add this to your list of books to read!

https://www.goodreads.com › showBroken In by B.A. Tortuga – Goodreads

Greyson Hayden wants to prove to his ex that he’s made it. He’s a successful stock contractor with a couple of million dollar bulls, a ranch owner with more acres than he can count, and he stopped drinking when Kyler kicked him out. He’s had a lot to prove, but now he’s back in town to show Kyler that he has. And maybe rub it in.

The hardest thing Kyler Lassiter ever did was let Greyson go, and he’s lost a lot in his life, right up to his legs in a terrible accident. He’s willing to let Greyson one up him if it makes the man feel better, but when fate throws them together again in the most bizarre way, Ky isn’t sure he’ll survive it, or having to lose Greyson again when it’s all said and done.
Can these two hardheaded cowboys learn to forgive each other, and themselves in time to find something lasting, or are they more broken than broken in?

This is a MM cowboy romance with tough love, tough luck, and lots of learning to be something new.

———-

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

Review: The Reluctant Companion (13 Kingdoms #1) by H.L. Day

Rating: 4.5🌈

The Reluctant Companion is exactly what I was hoping to read when I saw the words whimsical fantasy adventure! The first in the 13 Kingdoms series by H.L. Day, it just encapsulated all those things that have made me love this type of book since adolescence . It’s got a glorious, technicolor cover, complete with fabulous looking being with Fire leaning against a huge lion! Yep!

Then immediately inside there’s hand drawn maps of the places our characters go charging off to, ala Tolkien or many a other great fantasy series. Be still my heart when I saw those tiny little mountains, complete with nonsensical names.

You got to have those in a whimsical fantasy.

And then? It’s quest time! A farm boy sets out to find his sister who’s left his village, only to find himself (and his quest) being immediately led astray by a magical monkey only he can see!

The farm boy isn’t your typical naive wide eyed sweet thing. Oh no. He’s a deliciously stubborn, temperamental person who also happens to be a excellent hunter with a dry sense of humor and strong sense of justice.

A interesting choice when it comes to wanting a companion for a mission and adventure. Especially if the other person’s morals are a tad on the shaky side. As is his identity. But he’s gorgeous, a bit vain. And mysterious. And hard to say no to. Even as a reader. *shakes head at Sebastian *

Jack needs to find his sister and Sebastian says he needs to rescue a Prince. In between those two quests lies, well, a ton of fantastical fun, a bunch of not quite lies, amazing amounts of fabulous characters, including orcs who may not have been cheated, cheating pirates who aren’t nice to their fathers, and sassy, spoiled princes.

And some magic. And not that they’d let on, but perhaps some heartfelt romance.

It’s a wonderfully lighthearted story that allows for the characters to show growth of personality as well as real changes of heart as their journey progresses. It’s surprisingly deep for a whimsical tale of adventure, wild quests, and personal growth.

And maybe finding a companion who loves you too.

The ending is just terrific. One element of the plot had been left open. So of course, a new mission opens up for Jack and Sebastian with the potential to tie up that loose storyline. The Stubborn Accomplice (13 Kingdoms #2) is due out on September 30, 2022.

I will there immediately to grab it up.

Love fantasy? In need of something lighthearted? But with great characters and enough depth and charm that it will stay with you after you are done?

Check out The Reluctant Companion (13 Kingdoms #1) by H.L. Day! And don’t forget to look at the maps!

I’m highly recommending this!

13 Kingdoms:

✓ The Reluctant Companion #1

◦ The Stubborn Accomplice #2- Sept., 30, 2022

https://www.goodreads.com › showThe Reluctant Companion (13 Kingdoms #1) by H.L. Day | Goodreads

Synopsis:

Sebastian might have the power to summon animals, but winning Jack over? Far more difficult.

As first encounters go, Jack and Sebastian’s isn’t ideal, leaving Jack nursing a grudge he’s not about to let go of in a hurry. Yet, if Jack is to find his missing sister, and Sebastian is to rescue his captured prince, they’ll need to set their differences aside and work as a team.

Jack is stubborn and somewhat volatile. Sebastian is vain and clearly in love with himself. But as the unlikely companions face all manner of dangers together, they grow closer. Rescuing the prince should be easy. Rescuing him from an impenetrable tower guarded by dragon-shifting knights? Okay, that part is harder.

But once the adventure is over, letting Sebastian go might be the hardest thing Jack has ever had to do.

The Reluctant Companion is an 85k MM enemies to lover’s story featuring murderous orcs, deadly creatures, and marauding bandits. Opposites attract in this light-hearted fantasy romance which mixes humor with action and adventure. Meet a whole cast of colorful characters in the first book of the 13 kingdoms series.

———-

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

Review: Rogue (A Mike Bravo Ops #2) by Eden Finley

Rating: 4.5🌈

Eden Finley’s done it again with another wildly entertaining and suspenseful black ops novel! This time, it’s Rogue, the second book in the Mike Bravo Ops series about a black ops security firm made up of LGBTGIA ex military.

While Rogue has some similarities to the first book , like the couple already knows each other, it also differs largely in topic and tone.

First, Travis West is the owner of the now well and highly established Mike Bravo Ops security company. He’s a millionaire plus, not just one of the company. Although he did meet Dylan Rodriguez years earlier.

But he’s secure and a man of substance. A ex military leader who’s seen the best and the absolute worst the service has offered. And has the scars and experience to prove it.

Dylan Rodriguez, a DEA agent, is someone we met in Iris. He’s younger, idealistic in the best, most believable way. He’s not naive, but someone with a code of ethics he’s trying to follow.

Their interactions are often hostile, entertaining, frustrating (for Dylan), and a cat and mouse game the DEA agent never seems to exactly understand.

Once they get together, they are engaging, supportive, and sexy. The communication that’s ongoing between them about their philosophical differences in their careers, black versus gray areas seems realistic. Especially considering the situation.

Finley’s threads gets complicated, wonderfully so, as this becomes a espionage/murder/law enforcement mystery as well as a romance entanglement.

With everyone not knowing who exactly they can trust.

Talk about high octane action! Especially as Dylan “ Rogue “ Rodriguez starts to figure out exactly who and what Trav West and his family of black ops stand for and can do at any given moment.

Most of the family as we’ve come to think of them are here. Atlas, Ghost, Angel, Domino, Zeus, and of course, my favorites Iris, Saint, and even Princess Smooshy Face. Say yes to that trio!

There were some issues here that were inconsistent with the first book and characterizations laid down there.

Atlas is given a job he’s absolutely uncomfortable with and yet Trav makes him go. That’s inconsistent with the observations and standards put down in the other story.

Trav himself didn’t always seem like the man we met in Iris. However, I’ll chalk that up to love on the run and a relationship under fire.

I’m hoping that Atlas will get the next book and we will see a family book for our favorite trio, Iris, Saint, and Princess Smooshy Face. They cry out for a sequel.

I’m recommending this and the series! Happy reading!

Check out the series below!

Mike Bravo Ops series:

✓ Iris #1

✓ Rogue #2

https://www.goodreads.com › showRogue (Mike Bravo Ops #2) by Eden Finley – Goodreads

Synopsis:

TRAV

I remember the first time I met Dylan Rodriguez. It was one sweaty encounter I’ll never forget.

The second time we met, he arrested me. I can still see the hot scowl on his beautiful face as he slapped handcuffs on me and realized I was … me.

Dylan’s main goal in life is to forget he ever met me. My goal is to make him mine.

Turns out, I’m better at this game than he is.


DYLAN

When my law enforcement career falls to pieces in front of my own eyes, I don’t know who I can trust.

I have nowhere to go. No one to turn to.

Asking Trav for help is a last resort, but I’m desperate.

If he can’t get me out of this mess, I may as well turn myself over to the guys hunting me down.

I’m not sure which will be more difficult: protecting my life or my heart.

Because when it comes to love, my heart wants what my brain doesn’t. It wants Travis West.

———-

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

Review: Iris (A Mike Bravo Ops #1) by Eden Finley

Rating: 4.5🌈

Eden Finley delivers such a wonderfully entertaining story in Iris, a Mike Bravo Ops story! Just what I needed.

Iris, real name Isaac Griffin, but his irrepressible, often over the top personality in the Army got him the nickname “Iris-I require intense supervision” . It’s a name that’s stuck even at his new job at Mike Bravo Ops, a security firm made up of ex military who also happen to be LGBTGIA.

The company and people have appeared in another of Finley’s series but this is the first time I’ve read about them. It’s instant crush time.

The romance is between two men who already have history. So the attraction that arises as well as feelings is counted for by their past. I enjoyed that aspect of their relationship and romance. It’s often so hard to buy into a instant love story but a romance that’s got a firm foundation of a history between the main characters? Yes, please.

And this one aspect is one that has an air of believability about it because of the various issues that stood between them. DADT, family expectations, personal history, and each man’s stance on being queer. That’s a heavy load in that era. This is framed out concisely and as a story thread that will be used to grow their relationship.

Another is the type of work the Mike Bravo Ops Security teams do and how it brings Iris and Brock “Saint” Harlow back together.

Brock “Saint” Harlow is the opposite of Iris. The perfectionist, the CO’s ideal man. Therefore his nickname, “Saint”. He’s the Army’s Golden Boy in every way. Until one mission.

That’s the one which will reunite Iris and Saint, after years apart.

It will also allow Finley’s plot to deepen into those areas that add depth and dimension to a storyline. In this case , it’s a character dealing with the intense aftermath of a mission gone traumatically wrong, casualties, PTSD , and memory loss.

It’s something we have a window into from his perspective.

That he’s not “automatically “ healed is a welcome element here. That it’s a ongoing condition he’s actively dealing with is a fact that’s mentioned well into the next novel . And it’s a substantial factor in making these characters and relationships grounded in reality.

All these things could be easily overlooked in a story that’s full of snarky , fast paced dialogue, things that go boom, lots of crazy action, and sexy times!

They could but just when you think the “heart” has been suppressed by sarcasm and bullets, it comes rushing back to remind you . It’s still about love.

With a fabulously names GSD called Princess Smooshey Face added to make you thoroughly over the moon with them and everything at the end.

Yes, indeed. I really needed this . And I’m running immediately to review Rogue, which I’ve already read. Loved that too.

So I’m highly recommending this series to all fans of hot hunky men , and one woman, of action. Who also show depth and dimension amidst laughter and pain and things that go boom!

Check out the series below!

Mike Bravo Ops series:

✓ Iris #1

✓ Rogue #2

https://www.goodreads.com › showIris (Mike Bravo Ops, #1) by Eden Finley – Goodreads

Synopsis:

Mike Bravo. Knights in shining … camo.

Iris

I live for adrenaline. The thrill of the chase. And because I work for Mike Bravo, a private black-ops firm, it’s my job to go into dangerous situations.

But when we’re called in to extract a military team from a hostile situation, the thrill is so much better. Because one of those men happen to be the golden boy from my basic training days.

Brock “Saint” Harlow was a walking Captain America in the flesh. The perfect soldier.

Now my boss wants to recruit him, and I can’t wait to rub it in his face that he was rescued by me. The class clown.

I’m not called Iris “I require intense supervision” for nothing.


Saint

Military life is all I’ve known since I was born. I was raised to be a soldier.

But when a top-secret mission fails, I find myself suddenly discharged with nowhere to go.

Mike Bravo saved my life, and they want me to join them, but there’s one small problem.

Isaac “Iris” Griffin.

He’s as irresistibly snarky as he always was, only there’s a big difference this time. I’m no longer closeted or scared to live my truth. And the truth is, I’ve always wanted him.

It’s against Mike Bravo’s rules to fraternize with other team members, and I always follow orders.

But something tells me Iris might be worth the insubordination.

———-

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

Review: Line Drive (Hit and Run Book 2) by E.M. Lindsey

Rating: 4.5🌈

Line Drive is Lindsey’s actual third story in the series about a fictional MLB team, the Denver Vikings and it’s LGBTGIA players.

Line Drive is the romantic story for the Denver Vikings star pitcher, James “Scooter” Harney. A man with an extremely troubled upbringing he’s risen above, James is both a driven ball player and successful businessman. He’s got a group of teammates who are family and a well known bar. Everything but a relationship.

Lindsey crafted Harney as a person who’s abandonment as a adolescent and trials to feed his sister led him to poor decisions and traumatic jail time as a teenager. Thankfully, those experiences are not mentioned but only guessed at by the reader. Those formative years turned him into a person who doesn’t understand relationships.

Until a feisty teen, Phoenix, challenges him on his latest purchase of a bookstore and changes everything.

I have to admit that Phoenix and his interactions with James also further pulled me into the book. I adored these two and honestly wished for more time of them both together. That was some genuine chemistry there.

Phoenix is a stellar character who’s introduction and personality is just so remarkable that I won’t spoil anything about them here other than to say they have CP . How that disease is woven into the storylines and the character of Phoenix is also one of the best things here.

The other half of the romantic equation is Phoenix’ dad, Ridley Holland. A former minor league baseball player who was sidelined by a injury, he’s now a high school baseball coach and divorced dad barely keeping it together.

Sigh.

I really have a issue connecting with characters that have martyr complexes. And Ridley has those in spades. I was right there with Phoenix most of the time frustrated as well with Ridley’s suffocating, helicopter parental controls. So it was quite the effort to see my way to liking that aspect of the story as much as I enjoyed James buying the bookstore, enlarging his view of his future and letting people like Phoenix (and Ridley) into his small group of trusted friends .

I did eventually turn it around but James and Phoenix will remain my favorites of this story. Beautifully written, fully dimensional, and when it came to the end, and , yes, happiness exudes for all , the three of them enjoy a well deserved life together.

Any issues? A few. Some misspelled words that should have been caught. Existing instead of exiting, that sort of thing.

And one more that struck me. If you have a manager, then precisely told that manager to hire someone of a certain age with special needs while disregarding her arguments about duties and age limitations, then you should have followed it up later to help everyone succeed instead of being surprised the person had started. The way this was handled in the story bothered me. A sharp order that was rude and borderline derogatory, that took away this woman’s responsibility without a discussion. I found this small element very disrespectful and odd . And it stands out in a story about respect.

There were a few other minor things but these were my main issues.

Line Drive (Hit and Run Book 2) by E.M. Lindsey was a very enjoyable and rewarding story. I was still thinking about it hours after finishing it and that’s a mark of a wonderful book for me.

The next novel is coming out in December, just in time for the holidays. I can’t wait.

I’m highly recommending this series and the remarkable characters you’ll find within Line Drive!

Hit and Run Series:

✓ Nothing Ordinary #0.5

✓ Switch-Hitter #1

✓ Line Drive #2

◦ Double Play #3 – Dec 5, 2022

https://www.amazon.com › Line-Dri…Line Drive (Hit and Run Book 2) – Kindle edition – Amazon.com

Description:

James “Scooter” Harney is good at two things and two things only:

Pitching…

…and running away from his feelings.

So, when he comes face to face with a high school baseball coach who gets under his skin like no one ever has before, James isn’t quite sure what to do about it. After all, Ridley is smarmy, annoying, ridiculously good looking…

And worst of all, straight.

Then, James’ world is turned upside down one evening when Ridley admits that he’s been having thoughts. Thoughts about James. Thoughts that are making him question his own identity.

James knows he won’t make a good boyfriend, but the way Ridley looks at him, the way Ridley trusts him, makes James realize that maybe—just maybe—there’s something worth fighting for.

Line Drive is the second book in a fictional MLB series featuring a smarmy pitcher good at annoying his teammates and stroking his own ego, a team ready to win no matter what it takes, a lost single dad who just wants to know he’s doing a good job, and an agreement that wraps both of their hearts into a tangle. Each book in the Hit and Run Series stands alone, contains no cheating, and has a happily ever after.

———-

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

Review: Strut (Style #2) by Jay Hogan

Rating: 4.5🌈:

Style, the high fashion series from Jay Hogan, has as its core elements high fashion, those that work within the industry ,whether it’s designers, models, photographers, fashion bloggers, and, sexual assault.

I’ve finished Strut and Flare, and each of the main characters of those storylines has been the victim of a sexual assault, past as part of the storyline.

I mention this immediately for several reasons. One to let readers know if this would be a potential trigger for them. Another reason that using sexual assault as a element in storylines has become so prevalent that the majority of the last ten recently released books I read used it as part of their plot.

For me that’s a disturbing trend. Whether the author does well by the subject matter, as Hogan does here, or as a disposable element, poorly executed and one dimensional as I’ve seen so often lately.

In Strut it highlights an entire industry’s lack of care towards its models, the very real dangers a young person faces through big contracts, unscrupulous business practices, and a unthinking fashion industry that’s allowed certain practices to go forward until recently. The new rules and #Metoo movement has forced some significant progress .

Hogan’s storylines has handled this, the ramifications of sexual assault, respectfully and with regard to the reality of the situation. I liked the characters, ones we met previously in Flare and very much committed to their relationship.

Alec, the model we met in Flare who modeled for Rhys’ show in Auckland, has now relocated to the powerhouse high fashion world of New York City. He’s in debt but rising up in reputation as a runway model. He’s reunited with Hunter, the extremely talented, well known fashion photographer who’s best friends with Rhys and Kip. Hunter, Alec’s former crush was something that didn’t go well.

They are terrific characters. Alec is especially endearing. Hunter is a bit older and a player, until Alec. Both layered personalities with great chemistry, enough that you can understand them as a couple.

And it’s that foundation that gets them through the trauma that happens to Alec. It’s believable and highly realistic.

Hogan includes all the responsible choices in the aftermath, communication, reporting, therapy. Action to aid recovery, and bravery to aid others.

While I was thinking about the story and manner in which Jay Hogan wrote it, I couldn’t help but remember those other books that used SA in a way that borders on glibness. Quite the contrast to the pain, humiliation ,and trauma Alec feels here. Hogan includes the waves of emotion that wash over friends, family, and Hunter as they deal with their own personal feelings while trying to support Alec.

It’s very believable, which for some people might make it extremely hard to read. Please do not ignore the trigger warnings.

Jay Hogan has written a lovely romance that involves a major sexual assault element, one Hogan handles with responsibility and realism.

I’m recommending the story on the basis of the great characters and writing.

But I hope that the next book focuses on fashion and romance, and the young queer scene in Auckland. And not another sexual assault plot line.

When did this become so common in our stories that it’s a trope itself?

Something to think about.

Style series:

🔹Flare #1

🔹Strut #2

https://www.goodreads.com › showStrut (Style, #2) by Jay Hogan – Goodreads

Synopsis:

New Zealand farm boy turns New York fashion model.


Fairy tale? Maybe. But it hasn’t been easy. A year in this crazy city, working my tail off just to survive in a ruthless industry where sex sells and boundaries are too readily crossed.

A year and a reassuring ocean away from Hunter Donovan—a sexy, humiliating mistake that I’m not about to repeat. Distance is good. Distance is safe.

But now Hunter is back. In New York. In my life. In all those treacherous feelings that haven’t gone anywhere. But when my world suddenly crashes and I have to piece myself back together and fight for my career, will Hunter be there when I need him? Will we have what it takes to make it through this, together?

Note: This book contains themes of sexual harassment and sexual assault.

———-

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

Review: The Trouble With Trying to Save an Assassin (Murder Sprees and Mute Decrees Book 2) by Jennifer Cody

Rating: 4.5 🌈

“I pat his knee to comfort him, and then because that is not enough, I pull him into a tight hug, blind-typing, There there, Papa’s here.

“I swear I’m not an idiot,” Bellamy whispers, squeezing my hand.

“We’re a touchy family. And yes, we are a family, even if sometimes Bellamy prefers to pretend we aren’t. He pretends less and less with each week that passes.

Fox reaches past me and flicks Bellamy’s nose. “We don’t disparage ourselves,” he grunts.

We save that for the people we murder.

Fox reads my text and kisses the side of my head. “That’s right.”

— The Trouble With Trying to Save an Assassin (Murder Sprees and Mute Decrees Book 2) by Jennifer Cody

This series started as a lark for Cody but The Trouble With Trying to Save an Assassin sees a deepening of the relationships within the ever weird found family that Romily is building around him, as well as a complexity to the series arc as the author is adding characters and potential books into the universe.

I love it.

I mean who adopts a full grown enemy assassin as a son? Uh, why Romily did. And gets the assassin, Bellamy , as well as Fox (husband to be) , and Romily’s new family to accept Bellamy as a son, grand baby too? Sheer madcap awesomeness!

The interactions are hilarious. But what’s better is Bellamy’s emotional acceptance of his new status and family. It’s everything.

So when their son is threatened? It’s the family on alert and then to the rescue.

Which gives Cody the ability to enlarge each character’s supernatural elements as well as add the personal growth to their personalities that their new and stable relationships have had on them. Neither Romily or Fox are the same as they were when we met them in the first story. Each has shown measurable growth and revealed more about who they are, as people , and well, species.

I appreciate that element and the changes we see in them separately and together. We have mundane mysteries, that includes Romily’s engagement and missing ring.

Cody? Where’s the ring?

We get several great new additions to the series just as Romily adds to the family. “Edovard Durand Folange.” It’s French.” Who and what he is can be found within this terrific story. Trust me, he’s adorable.

So many wild elements here. Hopefully we will get to dive into them further as the series progresses.

The narrator changes, at least for Book 3, if the teaser at the end here is any indication. Should be wonderful. Can’t wait.

While we are waiting, pick up the preceding stories and get caught up. I’m happily recommending them all.

Murder Sprees and Mute Decrees series to date:

✓ The Trouble with Trying to Date a Murderer #1

✓ Fox Recruits a Mute Boy (And Falls in Love): A Short Story MSMD #1.5

✓ The Trouble With Trying to Save an Assassin (Murder Sprees and Mute Decrees Book 2)

https://www.goodreads.com › showThe Trouble With Trying to Save an Assassin by Jennifer Cody – Goodreads

Synopsis:

Romily:

You know what I’d like to know? Where the hell my romantic, how-we-got-engaged story is. Am I going to get it any time soon? Where is my big ass diamond?

Unfortunately, all that romance-novel level relationship-angst gets put on (indefinite) hold when my beloved son, Bellamy, is targeted by who knows who, poisoned, and then abducted by a wolf-ish person I kinda like. Am I going to get my kid back? You betcha. The question is, how many people does Fox have to kill first?

The Trouble With Trying to Save an Assassin is a 65k M/M Paranormal Romance with plenty of sass, gore, and questionable decision-making skills (and now there are tiny tables too).

———-

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

Review: Fox Recruits a Mute Boy (And Falls in Love): A Short Story MSMD 1.5 (Murder Sprees and Mute Decrees) by Jennifer Cody

Rating: 3.5🌈

“Romily asked me to do this, and I would do anything for that cute, fiery ball of optimism and silver linings except share him. He’s mine and I will fight you for him. No exceptions.”

— Fox Recruits a Mute Boy (And Falls in Love): A Short Story MSMD 1.5 (Murder Sprees and Mute Decrees) by Jennifer Cody

This cute short story is wonderful to read right after The Trouble with Trying to Date a Murderer #1. Whereas that story is narrated by Romily, this is narrated by Arlington Fox, with interruptions by Romily. It’s a quick look at their beginning, and soulmate connection, from Fox’ perspective.

If you were wondering why Fox was so quick to go along with Romily on all those occasions? Here’s your answer!

Love it! Recommending it. Need the other book to know what’s going on.

It’s also available free if you subscribe to the author’s mailing list.

Murder Sprees and Mute Decrees series to date:

✓ The Trouble with Trying to Date a Murderer #1

✓ Fox Recruits a Mute Boy (And Falls in Love): A Short Story MSMD #1.5

✓ The Trouble With Trying to Save an Assassin (Murder Sprees and Mute Decrees Book 2)

https://www.amazon.com › Jennifer-…Jennifer Cody: Books, Biography, Blog, Audiobooks, Kindle – Amazon.com

Synopsis:

Romily:
Are you wondering what meeting me was like for the love of my life, Arlington Fox? Well, as Fox tells it, it was magical. Obviously.

Fox:
Romily asked me to do this, and I would do anything for that cute, fiery ball of optimism and silver linings except share him. He’s mine and I will fight you for him. No exceptions.

Fox Recruits a Mute Boy is a 5k word short story as told from Fox’s point of view about how he met his soul’s mate. Content Warning: blood, gore, flying limbs, and ridiculous requests from polyamorous fathers.

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

Review: Boyfriend Goals by Riley Hart

Rating: 4.75🌈

I was looking for a contemporary romance to read after finishing a urban fantasy, and picked up Boyfriend Goals by Riley Hart.

What a utter pleasure this was to read! Low angst, a plot driven by fully realized characters in situations that allows them to grow, finding home and true love in a totally relatable,real way.

I went to sleep thinking about Milo and Gideon, their happy life together, friends and family. And they are still with me now.

Hart’s decision to have Milo be neurodivergent is a great one although it might spark some confusion or controversy. Milo is a wonderful character, who’s neurodivergence has effected his life since birth. It’s how he handles it now that will speak to the reader and Gideon.

As I understand it, neurodivergence “now refers to any structured, consistent way that brains work differently for a group of people than they do for the majority of others.”The sources I referenced many different types of neurodivergence, including Autism, which is referred to a couple of times here.

I’m not in touch with the author so I’ve no idea what Milo’s character framework was when planning this story. Whatever it is works! Milo feels so believable and alive for me. His interactions with Gideon, and the others in the community are credible. Whether it’s a new one on one situation or one that’s got Milo in a very stressful place, Hart’s writing is so terrific that it easily conveys that’s this a real life event for him.

Gideon too is a beautifully layered person. His dynamics within his family and how it’s worked through emotionally is heartwarming and heartfelt. Insecurities have no age limit and that’s especially true here.

Hart could have made Milo’s mother more one dimensional instead we get a moving relationship, fundamentally strong with two people who love each other. Again, such a great element among many.

By the end of the story, I was absolutely in love with Milo and Gideon, their combined stores, INK & INK, their new lives together and their community. What a wonderful life!

What a grand story! And one I’m highly recommending!

https://www.goodreads.com › showBoyfriend Goals by Riley Hart – Goodreads

Synopsis:

Milo
Unusual. Quirky. Different. I’ve heard it all. I’ve accepted I’m not for everyone. Maybe not anyone.

When I find out I inherited a bookstore and apartment on a small East Coast island, I jump at the chance for a new life.

Turns out, I’ve also inherited a sexy, tattooed guy who not only rents the space next to my store for his tattoo parlor but my apartment too.

Did I mention he’s really hot?

And surprisingly sweet?

Gideon
I wasn’t looking for a roommate, but it’s not like I can stay at Milo’s place while he’s banished to a hotel.

Our unlikely friendship is instant. According to Milo, we’re bestie goals.

And if he doesn’t wear pants at home, who am I to complain?

Milo’s not like anyone I’ve ever known. I like laughing and flirting with him. He’s adorably honest, eager, and sexier than he realizes.

Now I just have to figure out how to convince him that maybe it’s time for an upgrade from bestie to boyfriend goals.

———-

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

Review: Malicious Midpoint (Demon Magic #3) by Alice Winters

Rating: 4.75 🌈

Malicious Midpoint is the third of Alice Winters’ Demon Magic series and it’s my favorite to date. It’s a great mixture of the author’s signature snarky dialogue, quirky likable characters, which is combined with a magically twisted dark plot that’s pulled from all the previous novels. One that unexpectedly eschews the expectations of humor, ending up with emotionally moving scenes that deepen our connections with this very odd group of beings.

Not that humorous elements are left out! Far from it. There’s a scene or two that actually causes a spit take ! Waterbeds indeed! The growing family of Miles, Havoc, Menace, and others who often end up in their home or part of the peculiar intimate circle of friends are added to and, have their bonds tightened by the events here.

And it all starts so easily. With just a book and a boom!

Winters weaves a tale of love, darkness, tortured pasts, loss, family, and reclamation into something extraordinary. Just when you think the pain and darkness is unrelenting, there’s that aspect of humor to pull everything up before it’s plunging back down again.

Then there’s that ending. It’s weighing on me. Everywhere I see this is noted as 3 of 3 books in the series but this is very much an unfinished arc with so many storylines left unresolved.

It’s why this isn’t a 5 rating. Will there be more books? Another related series? I don’t know. I do know if you’re like me you won’t feel completely satisfied by this ending.

I’m still thrilled by Malicious Midpoint. But is it really instead the midpoint of this series? Is that my takeaway?

If someone has the scoop, please contact me.

In the meantime, I’m highly recommending Malicious Midpoint (Demon Magic #3) by Alice Winters and all the books that preceded it.

Demon Magic series:

🔹Shadow’s Origin #0.5

🔹Happy Endings #1

🔹Familiar Beginnings #2

🔹Malicious Midpoint #3

https://www.goodreads.com › showMalicious Midpoint (Demon Magic #3) by Alice Winters – Goodreads

Synopsis:

Nothing can go wrong with being in love with a demon and having a dragon familiar whose idea of a fun time is watching me plummet to the ground, right? Now that things have settled down, I’m hoping to finally get some peace and quiet to spend with Havoc.

Instead, we get a guy who can walk the river of the dead, a centaur that seems allergic to pants, and an angel who has only one true love: himself.

This is the group of misfits I’ve been given to protect the district.

Sometimes I can’t help but wonder how we stopped an unbelievably powerful dark mage.

After finding a strange book in the middle of the woods that seems to be connected to curse magic, I find myself in the presence of someone from my past… someone I never expected to meet again. As the clues lead us into a district on the brink of destruction, Havoc and I realize that in order to stop the district from collapsing and taking down our friends with it, we can’t do it alone. With the assistance of my chaotic crew, we are going to stop this darkness before it consumes those we care about.

But everything comes at a cost because when you work with magic, nothing is predictable.

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