Showing posts with label great family. Show all posts
Showing posts with label great family. Show all posts

Sunday, February 28, 2021

A Jock for Matthew (Sanderson Brothers # 4) by Declan Rhodes

 


Amazon Link - Available in KU
Goodreads Link





Brainy nerd, Matthew Sanderson, meets sensitive jock, Shawn Trent, in an opposites attract romance.

Matthew, the youngest of four brothers in the Sanderson clan, feels invisible in a family of local celebrities. Known only as “the tall, skinny one,” Matthew’s the brainiest of the bunch and signs on to help conduct a research project led by a tyrannical, but well-known, professor as a short track to fame and fortune in his field.

Soon, Matthew meets test-subject Shawn Trent, a handsome, muscular, blond college football offensive lineman. Shawn is an English literature major fond of quoting Walt Whitman to his teammates. He’s all muscle laced with sensitive smarts, and he’s in the closet—for now.

A Jock for Matthew is a 54,000-word first-time gay romance with strong family relationship, jock-nerd, and opposites attract themes. This is the fourth book in the Sanderson Brothers series.

All of the books can be read as standalone stories, but they are best read as a continuing series about the Sanderson family including all four brothers as characters in each novel.





My Rating - 4.5 Stars!


A Jock for Matthew is the fourth book in the Sanderson Brothers series by Declan Rhodes. Each book is easily read as a standalone, but I adore this whole series that centers around the Sanderson brothers.

Matthew's the brainy/nerdy Sanderson brother. He definitely doesn't fit in with his "famous" brothers.  When he's assigned to study some athletes for his studies, he never expects to connect with one.

Shawn may be a jock, but he's an English major who easily meshes with Matthew's nerd side. They spare with words and I adore how well they do so.

The two men are cute and sweet together. But Shawn is closeted. Yes, the closeted jock tale which I happen to love.

Their relationship is a slow burn one, as they two opposites fight their attraction for each other. Cue the forbidden factor, as Matthew isn't supposed to get involved with one of his subjects. Oh, so much fun!

Their story involves some hot moments, plenty of sneaking around, and a whole lot of insecurities. The conflict that arises is natural, although the resolution is definitely an easy way out. None the less, I really enjoy it all and love these men together.

The writing is great, with two likeable characters and a compelling storyline. In addition to the Sanderson family, there are lots of entertaining secondary characters. I basically love the whole crew.

A Jock For Matthew is a fun sports romance by Declan Rhodes. This jock/nerd story is a definite one to consider the next time you're in the mood for a college sports romance. 


Wednesday, December 9, 2020

RELEASE BLITZ & REVIEW - MF- Floored (Ward Family #3) by Karla Sorensen



Title: Floored
Author: Karla Sorensen
Genre: Sports Romance
Release Date: December 9, 2020
Cover Design: Najla Qamber Designs





Buy Links (Kindle Unlimited):


Amazon US  *  Amazon CA

Amazon UK * Amazon AU








If you've ever had a steamy one-night stand with a British football player and then find yourself pregnant with his baby, you know how Lia Ward feels.

To be fair, Lia didn't know who Jude McAllister was when they met.

Studying abroad for her master's program, all she knows is that she's a little lonely and he's very charming, even as they have an epically sexy argument about which type of football is superior.

In Jude's mind, shagging the feisty American girl is exactly what he needs. He’s been fighting the clock of his long-standing football career and the younger players primed to take his position. Proving that he can feel like his old self again—something he's been trying to do with everyone in his life—should be easier after blowing off steam with Lia.

But oh baby, when a plus sign pops up on Lia's pregnancy test, that 'one night' becomes a whole lot more.

Now Lia and Jude have to navigate their impossible-to-ignore chemistry, and prepare for the parenting game, something neither of them know how to play.

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My Rating - 4.5 Stars!

Floored is a study abroad romance by Karla Sorensen. The third book in the Ward Brothers series, it's easily read as a standalone. However, reading the series in order definitely adds to the fun. 

As far as I'm concerned, Lia's living the dream. Studying in England for a semester and meeting a hot athlete. Swoon. Course the dream doesn't involve a surprise pregnancy. 

It's a great story, but it took me a little bit to appreciate the characters fully. And, damn, let's just say that Jude's parents are awful. Add in Lia's family history and cue the tears. 

I like that the two work together and never have that big initial fall out due to those two pink lines. It's a nice twist on the typical surprise pregnancy storyline. Of course, there's conflict later on, and I love the way it's done. It's actually a development I appreciate and it never gets cheesy. 

It's a tale of pregnancy and the upcoming life changes that one needs to deal with. It's a tale of figuring out their family issues, as well as distance issues. It's also a tale that explores opening up to others and letting people in.

The writing is wonderful, with everything flowing well and the storyline keeping me intrigued throughout. My only complaint is that I wanted more. I wanted to see some of their daily lives, both surrounding school and his work. But of course, that would have been a whole different story. lol 

Overall, Floored is a good read. It's a nice NA read that explores finding one's place in life, as Lia struggles to figure out where she belongs, as she deals with the changes in her life. If you've been reading the series all along, you'll love this addition to the series. 



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"All the English countryside stars for this awesomeness. It’s getting one of my rare 6 stars...  I’ve read over 400 books this year and have only given 8 x 6 stars so that tells you just how much I loved this book!!" - Claypot Reads
"Karla Sorensen nailed the angsty and steamy feels once again in Floored. This unique sports romance was full of intense emotions and all consuming romance goodness. She never fails to bring out the best and the worst in me with her brilliant writing." (PP’s Bookshelf)
“Karla Sorensen delivers on all the things I love the best: the chemistry, the banter, the sweet steady burn that holds my heart in thrall and keeps my greedy little reader heart hungry for more. Floored delivered on all those things and more!” (Jennifer, Goodreads Review)
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Well, let’s see ... I’m a wife and a mother. If the things that I write bring a smile to someone's face, then I've done my job. I am obsessed with Outlander (both the books and the show). I’m almost exclusively a romance reader, which means some people will never consider me a literary snob. If I could meet one historical figure, it would be Jane Austen. I received my Bachelors in Public Relations and worked in health care marketing before I had my babies. I hate Twitter. I do it, but I hate it. Also, if you want to get on my good side, bring me wine and I'll love you forever.



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Wednesday, November 25, 2020

Christmas Crackers: An MM Holiday Romance Collection by Jay Northcote




Buy Links: Amazon US | Amazon UK

Cover Design: Garrett Leigh




Christmas Crackers: An MM Holiday Romance Collection


Three sweet and sexy MM Christmas stories in one great collection!

Best friends snowed in together. When the heat rises, will they get cold feet?

Getting snowed in at a remote cottage in Wales with someone he’d fancied for ages isn’t exactly how Sam expected to spend Christmas. His feelings for Ryan are pointless. Ryan’s straight—or so he thought.

Until now, Ryan’s kept his feelings for Sam buried. Why ruin a friendship over what might only be gay experimentation? Playing it cool seems safer, until a cold snap makes sharing body heat vital. In their Welsh safe haven, anything seems possible.

As Ryan’s reserve melts away, Sam wants more than stolen kisses under the mistletoe. But a sudden thaw means making decisions. They could face the New Year together—unless one of them gets cold feet.

***

When two friends pose as boyfriends, could what happens at Christmas turn into something more?

Justin is recently and unhappily single. Christmas is coming, and he doesn’t want to face his ex alone at their office party. So Sean—Justin’s best mate and long-time secret crush—volunteers to go with him and pretend to be his new flame.

Sean has always lusted after Justin from afar, but there’s never been a good opportunity to ask him for more than friendship. Posing as Justin’s boyfriend isn’t a chore, and if Justin wants to rebound onto him, Sean’s more than willing. At the party pretence and reality blur, and a kiss on the dance floor leads to a night of passion.

In the aftermath, they both assume it was a one-time thing until fate intervenes. Stuck together in London over the holidays, they give in to temptation again. But what happens at Christmas stays at Christmas… right?

***

Zac never had a family of his own, but Rudy has enough to share.

Shy, inexperienced Rudy has a crush on Zac from the moment his new colleague walks through the door. On an office night out before Christmas, Rudy finds the courage to make a move, and they form a tentative bond. When he discovers Zac will be alone at Christmas, he invites Zac to come home with him.

Zac prefers to keep people at arm’s length. Yet when Rudy offers him a family Christmas it’s impossible to resist. With no parents of his own, Zac is pleasantly surprised to be welcomed by Rudy’s. The only drawback is that everyone assumes they’re a couple. Unwilling to disappoint Rudy’s mum and make Christmas awkward, they decide not to deny it.

It’s not a chore for Zac to pose as Rudy’s boyfriend, but the pretence makes him want things that scare him—things like a real relationship with Rudy. Zac’s suffered enough rejection in his life already and is afraid to risk his heart. If he can get over his past rejection and let Rudy inside his armour, he might get more for Christmas than he ever imagined.


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My Rating - 4.5 Stars!

If you enjoy Christmas collections, you'll love this Jay Northcote book set. Christmas Crackers is a collection of three previously released stories. I enjoyed each of these stories when they were originally released, and it's a treat to read them again. 

In Cold Feet, we get a delightful friends to lovers romance. Their tale includes forced proximity in the form of a snowstorm, and a wonderful setting. Sam has long been in love with Ryan, but Ryan's never been into guys. What follows is a warm and tender out for you story. You'll love this story of falling in love with your best friend during a snowstorm.

What Happens at Christmas is a fantastic romance. I love this friends to lovers tale. Justin's the man who never had to come out because everyone just assumed he was gay. Sean meanwhile was slow to come out. With some forced proximity, and a pretend boyfriend moment, these two finally get a chance to admit their feelings. And it's all perfectly charming and passionate.

A Family For Christmas is the romance of Rudy and Zac. This is a co-workers romance with a Christmas party that helps break down some of the reclusive Zac's walls. What follows is Zac joining Rudy for the holidays. It's a tale of learning to trust and of family. You'll adore the secondary characters, who make for some awesome family holiday moments. Their story is one of fake boyfriends, which turns to more.

Overall, Christmas Crackers is a charming and sweet collection of three holiday romances. I like that each story revolves around people who already know one another, but just need that special nudge to get together. Jay Northcote will definitely leave you in the mood for Christmas and believing in the magic of love.   


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Jay lives just outside Bristol in the West of England. He comes from a family of writers, but always used to believe that the gene for fiction writing had passed him by. He spent years only ever writing emails, articles, or website content.

One day, Jay decided to try and write a short story—just to see if he could—and found it rather addictive. He hasn’t stopped writing since.

Jay writes contemporary romance about men who fall in love with other men. He self-publishes under the imprint Jaybird Press.

Website: https://jaynorthcote.com/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/Jay_Northcote
Facebook profile: https://www.facebook.com/jaynorthcotewriter
Facebook author page: https://www.facebook.com/jaynorthcotefiction
Facebook author group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/jaysplayground
Newsletter: http://tinyurl.com/JN-readers
Jay’s books: http://author.to/JayNorthcote




Saturday, November 21, 2020

A Guy For Christmas by K.C. Wells

 








Dear Santa,
Please can you send me a guy for Christmas? Someone kind, good-looking, sweet… but who knows what he’s doing ? ( If you get my meaning ;-) ) You must know SO MANY people. Surely you can give someone a shove in my direction?
I’m serious here!
I need your help.
I’m eighteen and I’m a virgin.
That doesn’t sound bad, right?
Well, in my little town, most of the guys I went to school with are getting a lot of action. And bragging about it. They have their pick of girls.
Only thing is? I don’t want a girl. And gay or bi guys are pretty thin on the ground around here.
Hell, the only gay guy I know of for sure is my neighbor, Mr. Quentin, but he’s ‘ancient’. He has to be at least thirty. Not that he isn’t hot - don’t get me wrong, he’s smoking! He was the coolest teacher ever, but he’s not gonna be interested in a guy my age.
Anyway, Santa…. I know you’re kinda busy right now, but if you could spare a thought for my little problem, I’d be eternally grateful.

Thanks, Santa.

Robin

P.S. I know I made it sound like it’s all about popping my cherry, but a little Christmas romance would be great too. So no guys with snow where their hearts should be, okay? I want ALL the feelz.
P.P.S On second thoughts, make that a lot of romance. But be careful, okay, Santa? I want a guy who’ll steal my heart, not break it.




My Rating - 4.5 Stars!

A Guy For Christmas is a great holiday romance by KC Wells. And the title says it all, as Robin wants just that - a guy - not a boy. 

This is one of those books I wasn't sure about going into it. But, since the author is KC Wells, I assumed she'd handle it with care. And I was right! I'm not a huge fan of teacher/former student romances, but this one never felt icky. 

Robin is 18, legally an adult. Despite just being out of high school, he was never in any of Dean's classes. The two men easily form a connection on an emotional level, in addition to their sexual attraction. It's compelling from the start, and includes a humorous coming out scene for Robin. 

A great aspect of their relationship is the level of equality. Often with such an age gap, when one of the men is only 18, you'd feel the older man has all the power. But the author excels in making them equals despite their differences.

The writing is sharp, with plenty of quick witted conversations, full of great banter. You'll love the sexual exploration and the fun first times. 

The secondary characters are fabulous. I love, love, love this family. They make the holidays fun, with Hallmark movies and cookie decorating. And, oh my, I love Robin's twin. 

A Guy for Christmas is a perfectly feel-good, light-hearted holiday romance. KC Wells had me obsessed with these men from the start. And as the story continues, it just gets better. You can't go wrong with this one. 




Saturday, November 7, 2020

RELEASE BLITZ, GIVEAWAY & REVIEW - Gideon (Boyfriend for Hire #3) by R.J. Scott & Meredith Russell

 




Cover Design: Meredith Russell

Length: 45,000 words approx.




Boyfriend For Hire Series

Book #1 - Darcy - My Review  *  Amazon US  *  All Buy Links
Book #2 - Kaden -  My Review   *  Amazon US   *   All Buy Links
Book #4 (coming April 2021) - Jared - Add to Goodreads




A snowy cabin with one bed? That’s only the first step toward Gideon falling in love.

Gideon is too old to be fought over at Christmas by divorced parents who should know better. The prospect of a Christmas on his own is better than having to face either of them. When Rowan hires him for a wintery break in Maine, it seems like a safe choice until his PA’s meddling family shows him something entirely new: Love.

Rowan hiring his boss for a trip back to his moms’ place for Christmas sounded like a good idea at the time. Killing two birds with one stone, he can cheer up Gideon and possibly steal a kiss under the mistletoe. After all, he’s been hiding his attraction to the man for years, and maybe with some Christmas magic, he can help Gideon see what is right under his nose.

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My Rating - 4.5 Stars!


Gideon, the third book in the Boyfriend for Hire series is a sweet and tender holiday read by RJ Scott and Meredith Russell. It can easily be read as a standalone. 

This time around, we get the romance between the owner of Boyfriend for Hire, and his PA. After having a kiss during a wedding they attended, now they are off to spend the holidays with Rowan's family. 

It's beautiful the way Rowan's family embraces Gideon. Having never been close to his family, this is the first time Gideon feels accepted and loved. The family is wonderfully written, full of chaos, many dogs, and some alcohol. It's a great mix of sweet and heat. 

Gideon is a charming and tender holiday romance. RJ Scott and Meredith Russell will leave you delighted with this Hallmark type tale. 

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RJ Scott is a USA TODAY bestselling author of over 140 romance and suspense novels. From bodyguards to hockey stars, princes to millionaires, cowboys to military heroes to every-day heroes, she believes that love is love and every man deserves a happy ending.

Find RJ here: Amazon | BookBub | Facebook - Also, Never miss a release


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Meredith Russell lives in the heart of England. An avid fan of many story genres, she enjoys nothing less than a happy ending. She believes in heroes and romance and strives to reflect this in her writing. Sharing her imagination and passion for stories and characters is a dream Meredith is excited to turn into reality.



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Wednesday, October 28, 2020

Saxon's Savior (Protect and Serve Book 3) by Pandora Pine

 



Amazon Link  - Available in KU
Goodreads Link



Paramedic Dallas Haynes is between a rock and a hard place. Needing to replace a fallen paramedic, but not wanting anyone else to fill his shoes, he procrastinates until the decision is taken out of his hands. Dallas is less than thrilled when the new medic turns up for his first shift.

Saxon James hopes his first day at Gloucester’s Firehouse Three will be a turning point in his life. Sent packing from his previous job, and branded a troublemaker, this new position is his last chance to get it right. When he receives a frosty reception from his new boss, Dallas, he’s even more upset to find himself attracted to the taciturn man.

The new coworkers are like oil and water from the moment they meet. But the burning desire between them inevitably begins to draw them closer and soften the animosity between the two men.

Finally surrendering to the fiery passion between them, Saxon and Dallas are doused by approaching Hurricane Tess, who has her sights set on Gloucester. Can they band together to save lives in the height of the storm, or will their budding relationship sink in the rising tide?



My Rating - 5 Stars!


Saxon's Savior, the third book in the Protect and Serve series, is an awesome read. This Pandora Pine book is easily read as a standalone, but the books are all connected and best enjoyed if read in order. 

If you enjoy paramedics falling in love, you'll love this co-worker romance. Dallas and Saxon get off of the wrong foot when they become co-workers. But once the pretenses are dropped, and everything is forgiven, they bond over their similar pasts. They make for a fun couple from the start, but when a wrench is thrown into Saxon's life, things get iffy for the couple.  

As for the action and danger, good god, the first action scene had me on the edge of my seat. I could feel the heat from the fire. I could see the men and the car. I could feel the anxiousness of the situation. Wow! What a way to start the action. Classic Pandora Pine writing!

The author also excels in developing strong family units, always visiting with them, and making them an essential part of the storyline. Of course, Dallas is one of the many McCoy foster children. I seriously love this family. The bond between the family members is unbreakable, and dear lord, I love Mindy! I love her and her enthusiasm about helping strays. The whole family is just wonderful, continuing to charm me. They alone make this series a must read for me. 

But my favorite part of a Pandora Pine book is always the children she creates. They're lovable, sweet, funny, and always add greatly to the story. This book has two adorable kids, with one that will make you smile and laugh throughout. Seriously, Lola is the cutest kid ever! 

Written in alternating 1st person pov, the author continues to impress me. Not only are her characters well developed, it's the writing style that always has me consumed. She manages to set a scene with little details here and there, fully pulling you into the moment. She never bogs the reader down with unnecessary details, but rather just little ones that help you see what's happening. It's truly a gift to be able to write like this, as it's a delicate balance to not overwhelm the reader with too many details.

I absolutely love Saxon's Savior. From the first page, Pandora Pine had me hooked. This men in uniform romance is a feel-good, charming read, with plenty of action and obstacles throughout. This is definitely going on my re-read list. 


Wednesday, October 21, 2020

Prince of the Playhouse (Love in Laguna #3) by Tara Lain



Amazon Link - Available in KU
Goodreads Link




Is Ru’s shady past the new black?

Fashion designer Ru Maitland’s so obsessed with movie star Gray Anson, the Cosmic Joker can’t resist bringing them face-to-face at the Laguna Playhouse.

But Gray’s in the closet—to protect his billion-dollar career.
Ru’s so not.

When Ru’s dark past collides with Gray’s paparazzi-haunted present, Gray’s macho identity threatens to crumble, and Ru finds himself in jail!

Somebody better learn that the only acceptable compromise is the truth.

PRINCE OF THE PLAYHOUSE is a coming out, hidden identity, billionaire, movie star, your-past-comes-back-to-bite-you, MM romance.




My Rating - 5 Stars!

Tara Lain's Prince of the Playhouse is a fabulous Hollywood romance. The third book in the Love in Laguna series, it has all the charm and love we've come to expect in this series. It can be read as a standalone, but is even more fun if you've met Ru before.

We met Ru in Knight of Ocean Avenue and his story is everything we'd expect from the out and proud fashion designer. He's over the top flamboyant and it's wonderful. His wardrobe is well illustrated and it's perfectly dazzling, just like Ru himself. 

Ru's long time favorite actor is Gray, who he ends up designing clothes for during a Parkhouse play. His adorable crush on the actor is entertaining, and it ends up that the two have some things in common. 

As much as I love and adore Ru, my heart wanted to protect Gray. I have a special spot in my heart for closeted actors. We all know the industry can be very unforgiving to gay actors. And Gray is definitely is not taking his chances with coming out. And damn it, as much as it angers me, I just can't blame the man. 

Ohhh, Ru and Gray. Yes, Ru and Gray. They're as wonderful together as you'd think. Fancy, unapologetically awesome fashion designer Ru and the the tough, macho Hollywood actor, Gray. 

Their tale is one of instant lust. It's also a messy tale that's loaded with complications. It's full of twists and turns, as things are never easy for these two men. In addition to Gray's secret sexual identification, Ru also has secrets. Ru's past is full of some major issues, and he's no longer able to ignore them. 

The writing in wonderful, keeping me fully delighted and invested throughout. The development of both the men and their story is done well. And the author includes some great secondary characters to keep things fun. As much as I'm obsessed with Shaz, it's Gray's mom who stole the show for me here. If you like wonderful moms, look no further. 

Prince of the Playhouse is an marvelous read. This Tara Lain book will perfectly entertain and charm you from start to finish. You can't go wrong with this love story between total opposites. 
 


Season's Change (Trade Season #1) by Cait Nary

  Amazon Link    Goodreads Link A veteran hockey player and a rookie can't get away from each other—or their own desires—in this sexy, h...