MF - Forever Moore (Moore Family #1) by Frankie Page

 

Amazon Link   - Available in KU  

Goodreads Link

Jax Harris has been in love with Tilly Moore for as long as he can remember. But timing has never been on their side. A dream career opportunity sent Jax traveling around the world but after a decade apart, tragedy has brought him home. Now that he has returned, he is not sure if he has the strength to leave Tilly all over again. But faced with life-altering choices, will he fight to stay?

Forever Moore is a full-length romance complete with HEA, no cliffhanger, and no cheating. Note: this story is not suitable for persons under the age of 18. Potential triggers lie within this book.

My Rating - 3 Stars!

Forever Moore is the first book in the Moore Family by Frankie Page. I definitely have mixed feelings about it. 

This is a riveting story, but the beginning felt like something was missing. 

Things start with a phone Jax receives from his best friend Scott. Immediately, Jax is on a plane and then comforting the shaken and withdrawn Tilly. 

For me, I was uncomfortable with how long it took to explain the relationship between Jax and the whole family. It felt like I was walking into a second or third book in a series instead of the first. 

As for the relationship between Jax and Tilly, I enjoyed this. Tilly is definitely stubborn and puts up some barriers. But damn, I also wanted to yell at her. Her walls were a little too much. 

Their relationship is a second chance for the couple, as they are reunited after a long separation. The reader follows the couple as they get to know one another again, and deal with plenty of internal issues. 

Oh, and Jax is fabulous!

Forever Moore is a decent read. This Frankie Page read left me excited to see what comes next in this series. Now that I know the family and their dynamics, I am hoping the next books feel more natural. The family itself is one that I am intrigued by and look forward to get to know them even better. 

REVIEW TOUR, EXCERPT & REVIEW - Loving Love (In Midsummer #7) by Jessica Frances

 

Title: Loving Love

Series: In Midsummer #7

Author: Jessica Frances

Genre: F/F Romance

Release Date: March 5, 2021

Goodreads

One friendship. One heartbreak. One messy past. One open-ended future. One chance to fix regrets. Multiple hurdles to jump.

Rian:

I knew returning home was never going to be easy. I hurt people when I abruptly left seventeen years ago. I hurt my brothers. I hurt the woman I loved. I lost touch with everyone and have missed so much. But running away can’t last forever. It’s time to face my demons and fight for the one person I can no longer live without.

Love:

Everyone knows me as the lovable, bubbly, happy girl. It isn’t untrue. Years ago, I had my heart broken and have hidden just how much that moment destroyed me. Every day that we have been apart has felt like a piece has been missing from me. But when Rian returns, I can’t bring myself to trust her. I can’t pick up the pieces of me that she carelessly broke and pretend everything is okay again.

However, when a story drifts into dangerous territory and someone important gets caught in the crossfire, sometimes you have to let the past stay where it belongs and forge a new future. There will be missteps, and maybe some tears, but fate cannot be stopped.

So, what does fate have in store for us now, and what are the chances we will survive it?

Buy Links (Kindle Unlimited):

Amazon US * Amazon CA

Amazon UK * Amazon AU

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My Rating - 4.5 Stars!

Loving Love is the seventh book in the In Midsummer series. This Jessica Frances story is definitely best read as part of the series. Hell, just to get to know why fans of this series love Love so much. 

So yes, we are finally getting Love's story. Woo Hoo!

Rian's back in town after being away for seventeen years. I enjoy their easy going reunion, as it could have been very ugly instead. 

Rian's reasons for having left are heartbreaking. I felt so bad for her. 

Their story involves some understanding and forgiveness. 

And, by now you know about the drug problem at the school, Well, Love is out to solve the crime and of course it will cause some trouble. 

Loving Love is a great, fun lesbian romance. Once again, Jessica Frances combines a nice romance with some action and danger. And oh, the ending is fabulous!

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“Sounds like you want to hang around here.”

“I do. I know I’m incredibly late on coming back here, but I do want to make Midsummer my home again. I’ve missed this place. I’ve missed you.”

I watch the impact my words have over Love, and they aren’t necessarily good. She looks gutted by my admission.

“I have to get back.” She holds up her hands that just have tape and no fliers left. “Thanks for keeping me company.”

“Of course. It’s been good to see you. I don’t suppose you’d be interested in hanging out again? I know I hurt you by leaving, but I’d appreciate the chance to tell you my story and, if you are open to it, becoming friends again.”

I want much more than friendship with Love, but I know I have to tread lightly. I have to gain Love’s trust again before I promise her more. If we don’t get this new foundation right, then we’re doomed before we get a chance to start.

Love doesn’t immediately respond, which has my heart jacking up in tempo, but soon, a smile graces her soft lips.

“I’d like that. I’m sure we can make some time next week. I’d love to hear about how the teaching goes. I might have a favor to ask of you.”

“Anything!” I quickly agree, knowing I would still do anything for Love. “And let’s lock next week in. Do you still have my number?”

Over the years, we emailed to keep in touch, though those emails turned few and far between in recent years.

“Will you actually leave your phone on? From memory, you were notorious for letting it die for weeks on end.”

“I traveled far and wide, often in places where electricity wasn’t common. I got used to living without it,” I admit, knowing I wasn’t the best at it when I was a teenager, either. I had to hide even having it from my parents, which meant I couldn’t always leave it out charging.

“Luckily, The Last Resort boasts electricity!”

“Yes, I was very impressed to see many outlets in my room. Very fancy.” I lightly elbow her and smile when she laughs.

“Yeah, I have your number. I’ll text you when I’m free.”

“I look forward to it.” I don’t exactly keep the wistful note out of my tone, and Love sure doesn’t miss it, given her widening eyes and the way they dart to my lips. She looks away quickly, but I catch it.

“It’s good to have you back.” She gives me another hug, though it’s less surprising, and I’m able to focus more on how it feels to have her in my arms and to have her body against mine.

I probably hold on too tightly and certainly for too long, but I can’t help it. I missed Love more than I ever realized, and being back, close to her, is like finally feeling fiery warmth after being out in a wintery storm for years.

She pulls away, and then I watch her walk back in the direction of the hotel. I get the feeling she wants some space, so I let her have it. I have a date to look forward to next week, and I need to make sure it goes off perfectly.

For now, I’m going to go off in search of Reed and tease him relentlessly about the fact that he’s going to be a father to twins.

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In the Series:

Stranded  (In Midsummer #1)

Seperated (In Midsummer #2)

  

Stay (In Midsummer #3)

 

Secrets (In Midsummer #4)

 

Safe (In Midsummer #5)

Protecting Prince  (In Midsummer #6)

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Born and raised in South Australia, Jessica spends her days working in a bakery, afternoons catching up on lost sleep, and nights reading and writing. Writing has always been a passion of hers, however it wasn’t until recently that she decided to put pen to paper and make things official.

Social Media Links:

Email: jessicafrances_author@yahoo.com.au

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Jessica-Frances-Author-156139237914619

Goodreads : https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/7236316.Jessica_Frances

Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Jessica-Frances/e/B00H3YLSAM

Website : http://jessicafrancesauthor.blogspot.com.au/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jessica_frances_author/

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HOSTED BY:

Stoking the Fire (Salus Security #1) by Teodora Kostova

 

Amazon Link   - Available in KU  

Goodreads Link

"You hired my ex as my bodyguard?"

When Alec left NYC - left me - I was a broken mess. All my days blurred into a continuous haze of alcohol, parties, and meaningless hook-ups.
Until my sister nearly died in a car accident. Her recovery was the wake-up call I needed.
Now, three years later, I've cleaned up my act, sobered up, and finally became the son my father always wished I was - the heir of Van Dorf Media Group.
But being part of one of the most influential families in America has its disadvantages. Like fanatic supremacists trying to kill you.
My father's solution? Hire Alec Bonovich to protect me.
Doesn't matter that he's my ex.
Doesn't matter that just seeing him makes my pulse quicken.
Doesn't matter that he's the only man who's ever broken my heart.
Because Alec is the best.
And he’s the only one I trust to protect me when my life is in danger.


80,000 words.

My Rating - 4.5 Stars!

Stoking the Fire is a riveting bodyguard romance by Teodora Kostova. The first book in the Salus Security series, it's a wonderful second chance tale.

Zach and Alec's romance starts in an easy manner, with everything developing quickly. It had me wondering what was going on, as things seemed too easy. 

Other than Zach's anxiety, that is. Being from a famous family, he's in the public eye. And the non stop criticism is drowning him with panic attacks. It's hard to see happen. 

And then. Oh man, their separation is devastating. 

But after that, things fast forward a few years. Zach's reclaiming his life for himself. He's removed himself from the public eye and goes about mostly unrecognized now. And Alec is no where to be seen.

Until Alec is hired as Zach's bodyguard. Ouch! 

Once they're reunited, it isn't easy. There's a lot of unresolved feelings and plenty of things to say. They also have to deal with danger. Worst of all though are all the things Alec doesn't know about.

Good god, Alec is so good for Zach. He saw what social media did to Zach and he is the only one who can get through to him to take care of himself. 

This is a tale where Zach essentially can't trust anyone. Except his sister and Alec. And oh man, his sister's situation is heart wrenching.

It's full of twists and turns, both in their relationship and in the danger aspect. It's a political power hungry read with threats, blackmail, and attempted murder.

I love the author's writing style, as well as the depth of her characters and storylines. It's written in first person pov, which is my preference. 

Overall, Stoking the Fire is a great second chance romance. Teodora Kostova excels in combining these complicated men and their romance with a lot of danger and a large, ever looming mystery. I'm excited to see what comes next in this series.

Saving Throw (Table Topped #3) by Alex Silver

 

Amazon Link - Available in KU
Goodreads Link

Rene was my first everything. Best friend, first kiss, first love, first heartbreak.

Seven years after walking out of my life, they tear open old wounds with a single photo of a smiling little boy and the message they’re coming home.

Mo has my smile and Rene’s eyes. It kills me that I didn’t know about him sooner. As furious as the news Rene kept such a major secret makes me, I want a relationship with my son more than I want to rehash old arguments. Besides, Rene has more baggage than the 747 they flew in on, and I swore off love the first time they left me heartbroken.

When I learn Rene and Mo need a place to stay while they settle into life in Vancouver, it sounds like a perfect opportunity. I’ve got a spare room. What better way to figure out co-parenting than living together? It’s not like I’m going to fall for the ex who hurt me deeper than anyone else could. That would be ridiculous.

Saving Throw is the third M/NB romance in the Table Topped series. It features Errol, demisexual panromantic production coordinator who likes to be in control and his first love, Rene, a non-binary trans masc ex-hockey player turned coach.

CW: Past mentions of a physically abusive alcoholic parent and portrayals of trauma/PTSD related to that, secret teenage pregnancy and related gender dysphoria/difficulty with accessing medical care. Side characters struggle with infertility.

My Rating - 4.5 Stars!

Saving Throw, the third book in the Table Topped series by Alex Silver is a wonderful, feel good read. 

This is a second chance romance between Errol and Renee, who were childhood best friends and high school sweethearts. When Renee re-appears in Errol's life, it's with a surprise; their six year old son. 

There's a lot going on in this story. At first, it's mostly the story of two people becoming friends again, blending their lives for the good of their son, and slowing falling back into being a couple. But later, things get heavier and more complicated.

First, I'm in awe of Errol's acceptance of the situation. He's truly a remarkable man. Most stories like this deal with the surprised parent's anger and feelings of betrayal. Instead, that is mentioned, but Errol never lets his feelings get in their way. He's fully able to look beyond his pain and spends time getting to know his son. 

Then there's Renee, who I love. A non-binary character, former hockey player, who raised their son by themselves for six years. Renee was raised by an alcoholic and abusive father. Renee's father never cared to discuss Renee's gender with them, and it took Renee a long time to understand they had gender dysphoria. Their family issues are plentiful, having left them with some emotional baggage.

In addition, adding more layers to their relationship, is Errol's sexuality. Back in the day, he didn't have a name for what he is. But now he knows he's demisexual and panromantic. The only person that has ever turned him on is Renee. No matter what Renee's body looks like, Renee's the only one Errol wants to be physical with in any way, and I applaud Renee's acceptance of Errol's preferences. Awww, I love that cuddling is just as important to Errol as anything else. 

The author handles all of these things in a fantastic manner. Renee's non-binary identity is a large part of who they are, and the author handles this with care. As well, the author explores Errol's sexuality in an amazing manner, writing it with knowledge and tact. 

This is a story of finding out you're a dad to a six year old, a second chance with your ex, and a whole lot of impressive forgiveness. It's a story of learning to move forward with one's new found situation. It's truly beautiful. There are some obstacles later on of course, as there should be given the situation, but I love how they're handled. They're important issues to be discussed and although it's heavy-ish, their love and relationship is never in doubt. 

Best of all, I enjoy the author's character diversity in this series, as they include a variety of sexual and gender identities. It's truly refreshing to find series like this, as there aren't a whole lot of them. 

As far as the gaming scenes, I continue to not relate to those. There aren't many in this one, but it's easy to skim through them quickly. 

Saving Throw is the perfect read when you're in the mood for a mostly low angst, tender read. This Alex Silver read is a impressive in it's depth, while also being a wonderful option for people to learn more about diversity and different lifestyles. 

A Kind of Forever (Finding Forever #1) by Marie Sinclair

 

Amazon Link   - Available in KU  

Goodreads Link

Ry and Cart were inseparable in college: two innocent kids in love who thought they could take on the world. But when a photograph of the two of them at an LGBTQ protest outed Ry to his conservative family, his parents forced him to leave college and convinced Cart their relationship was something Ry regretted.

Twelve years later, they’re given a second chance.

Since they last saw each other, Cart has moved on. Sort of. He relocated to San Francisco, became a human-rights lawyer, and fell in love again and got married, only to lose his husband to cancer. Still reeling from the loss, he’s devoted himself to the struggling LGBTQ youth center his late husband founded. Then Ry joins the law firm where Cart works. The moment they see each other, Cart can tell Ry’s changed. Gone is the sensuous and enthusiastic lover Cart remembers, and in his place is a man who looks at Cart with disgust. The last thing Cart needs is having to figure out what’s going on with his former lover, but he can’t ignore the strong emotions resurfacing between them.

When Ry returned to his hometown of San Francisco, he knew being near his parents again was going to be a challenge. For twelve years, they’ve been manipulating him with threats of being disinherited and losing his trust fund. It worked when he was younger, getting him to leave college and agree to conversion therapy in the hopes of getting away and returning to Cart. But the camp caused him so much trauma, he can’t even look at another man without experiencing a panic attack. Now his goal is to beat his parents at their own game by pretending to be the dutiful, straight son they want. Two more years, and he’ll succeed. Then he sees Cart again and realizes what really matters to him. He just needs to find a way for Cart to realize it too.


Trigger Warnings: This book contains references to attempted suicide, conversion therapy, depression, and self-harm, as well as depictions of PTSD and panic attacks. 

My Rating - 5 Stars!

A Kind of Forever is an emotional and powerful second chance romance by Marie Sinclair. 

Way back when, Ry and Cart were dating and in love. Until Ry disappeared without an explanation.

Set in San Francisco, this one is one hell of a read. Ry's past is full of pain and anguish, all caused by his controlling, homophobic parents. 

As for Cart, he's now grieving the loss of his husband Sam and helping to save Sam's LGBTQ youth center. 

Upon their reunion, the anger and animosity are both intense. What follows is a beautiful tale of regret and forgiveness. It's a tale with family issues, as Ry can't come out to his family. Their story includes panic attacks and so damn many flashbacks to conversion therapy.

In the end, it's an impressive story with explanations, apologies, and acceptance. It's story of trying to deal with one's own past, as well as another's. And I couldn't put it down. 

This is a story with plenty of heavy topics and heavy moments. Take note of the trigger warnings and avoid if conversion therapy or attempted suicide is a hard no for you. 

The writing flows well, with a great pace. The characters are well developed and their storyline emotional and intriguing. The great thing is, despite all the heaviness involved, the author manages to keep things lighter than one would except.

A Kind of Forever is a stellar read. My first time reading a Marie Sinclair book, I am in love with this one and look forward to reading more from this newish author.

One More Spin by Hayden Hall

 

Amazon Link - Available in KU 
Goodreads Link

I’m snowed in with my crush. What could go wrong?

Michael is funny, confident, and drop-dead gorgeous. He’s also straight. He made that clear five years ago when I kissed him.

It was the last time he spoke to me. It took a continent between us to calm my aching heart.

He danced back into my life now when nobody else could help me, offering a chance to be my friend again. Or is he offering more? Getting stuck in his mountain cabin is more than I can take.

The snow won’t chill the ache. If we don’t get out of here soon, I might just do something stupid.

He’s going out of his way to atone for the way he treated me and I feel my resolve breaking. I can’t always be the one doing the smart thing.

Something stupid… Here I come.

One More Spin is the second book in my One More Chance series, but can be read on its own. It includes second chance, forced proximity, gay for you/bisexual awakening tropes and no relationship angst. Steam runs high, but so does the sweetness. HEA is, as always, guaranteed.

My Rating - 4.5 Stars!

Hayden Hall's One More Spin is, for the most part, a sugary sweet second chance romance. I adore a good second chance romance, and this one definitely grabbed me from the start. 

It all begins with an unwelcomed kiss and five years of no communication. But when Holden returns home, he gets an unexpected surprise when he sees Michael again. 

The forced proximity aspect is well done, with a snow storm stranding the two men in Michael's cabin.  The attraction is mutual, and with some sexual discovery and sexual experimentation, the two are certainly hot together. 

Once they talk, there is never an issue between the men. Their love is strong and their dreams are large. They seriously connect is an unbelievable way, but I don't care, as sometimes I want simple. The fact that their reunion is done without all the possible heavy angst, makes for a tender, low angst tale. As for the issues they have, those are with others, as they have to deal with both their families. 

Holden's relationship with his father is heartbreaking. Homophobia, embarrassment, and a strained relationship. The two have a lot of healing to do. And then there's Michael's father, who's not only controlling, but is way too tough on his son. The way he treats Michael made me want to cuddle Michael and tell him he's worthy as he is.

The last part of the book, with their dreams coming true, is just adorably perfect. These men are perfect for each other and their tale is one made in the clouds. And I wouldn't want it any other way. 

One More Spin is one of those easy reads that will leave you smiling. I enjoyed this Hayden Hall read a lot and definitely recommend it when you want an easy going developing relationship. 

Snare by Zoe Piper

 

Amazon Link   - Available in KU
Goodreads Link

Kellet James has few regrets in life, except maybe one. Jamie Larke. Walking away from their shared dreams of fame and fortune for responsibility and family was the hardest decision he’d ever had to make.

Seventeen years later, Jamie is back, offering Kellet the opportunity of a lifetime. Larkspur, the band they formed in high school, needs a new drummer for the last leg of their world tour.

With the help of a meddling teenager and with his best friends’ support, Kellet reluctantly agrees to Jamie’s offer, and is immediately thrown into a whirlwind of rehearsals and sold-out shows across North America. Adding to the maelstrom is the connection he and Jamie still share. A connection Jamie wants to rekindle.

Can Kellet and Jamie have a second chance at love, or are they destined to be a one-hit wonder?

Snare is a low(ish) angst, sweet with heat, second chance MM romance.

My Rating - 4.5 Stars!

Snare is a fun second chancer rocker romance by Zoe Piper. 

Jamie and Kellet's tale is one that began 17 years ago, when they had a chance to make it big together. Instead, Kellet stayed behind to raise his son while Jaime went off to make it big in the music industry. 

Now, 17 years later, Jamie is back to ask Kellet to join the band. Here starts the two small decisions to be made. 

Oh, I love how Kellet gave up his chance to be there for his son. It's a beautiful thing. But, can he leave now? His son is old enough and will be off to college. Thus, Kellet can grab this chance if he wants. 

As for the romance, as much as the men are still attracted to each other, both have some fears about getting involved again.

Adding to the fun is Kellet's son, Will. Joining the band on tour before he starts college, he definitely wants the men together and is a delightful character. I absolutely adore his part in this story. 

Snare's a short, quick, low angst tale that is easily read in one sitting. Zoe Piper brings a lot of sweetness to this second chance romance. This book is pure fluff and full of happiness. It's definitely worth a read the next time you are in the mood for such.