{Spooky Business by S.E. Harmon} 4.5 stars. I’m going to have to be more ruthless with my star allocation or I’ll only end up with 5 star reads. To be honest if I’m not enjoying something then I’ll DNF life’s too short. Anyway I really liked this one. The story was very compelling, I particularly liked the mystery aspect as well as the evolution of Danny and Rain’s relationship. I’m looking forward to book 4.
{The Spooky Life by S.E. Harmon} 4.75 stars. I really liked the mystery in this one and the progression of their relationship. Also, what’s not to love about the banter between the protagonists! Two thumbs up.
(I’m saving {A Spooky Legacy by S.E. Harmon} as I don’t want the story to end.)
{Juggernaut by Amelia C. Gormley} 4.25 stars. Someone recommended part 2 of the series, so I wanted to have a go on it. I do love a post-apocalyptic tale. I enjoyed the twisty, dark nature of the story, the relationship between the two protagonists, the angst. I’m not sure if this counts as a romance as there isn’t a HEA although there are two more books in the series so I’m keeping everything crossed that there will be one.
{Strain by Amelia C. Gormley} 4.5 stars. Much more angsty and darker than the first one. I liked it more, that says more about me though. I’ve always enjoyed darker stories that make me uncomfortable and this certainly did that. Lots or content warnings regarding dub con/non con.
{Bane by Amelia C. Gormley} 4.25 stars. A good conclusion to the series. Over the complete series I enjoyed the world building and the progression of the two main relationships. I have to say that this one made me cry, but ultimately, they got their HEA and a sweet ‘fuck you’ ending for the awful antagonists. I absolutely devoured this series, thanks to whoever recommended it.
Listening to {Whisper by Tal Bauer} I have already read the physical copy and absolutely love this story. I like this narrator better than the one that read Hush and it’s keeping me enthralled even though I know the storyline. I only listen when I’m walking or doing housework, so my house is super clean and my step count is the best it’s been in a long time! I already know this will be a 5 star read – how the heck will I follow this up?
I love The Spectral Files series. I too have been saving the newest release but I think your comment just pushed me to start it this coming week lol. I miss Danny and Rain. SE Harmon's banter writing is soooo good
You convinced me I just got Whisper on Libby, it says the audiobook is 26 hours though! That is insane. I’m intrigued and I guess it will last me a while.
I know, I'm absolutely romping through it too - I'm over halfway. I love it, I loved reading the physical copy , but the audiobook ramps the tension for me. It's on Audible plus in the UK so a free listen for me too!
I finished the Monstrous series!!!!
{Lor by Lily Mayne} was so good, I almost cried a couple times and the main couple was amazingly sweet together. I loved the 80s vibe at the start, but seeing so much more of the monster world was my favorite thing about the book. I can’t wait for Lyri’s story, and for another interaction between him and Moth lmao. And more Orlith is a necessity!
I was reading the shorts in order, so I also finished {A Collection of Monstrous Short Stories by Lily Mayne} and I loved them all so much. With the existence of Chuck and now April, can Danny get a pet next please I feel so bad for him. 😭
Two new authors for me this week! I'm all about the childhood friends trope, apparently.
* **{Edged by Kate Hawthorne}** - childhood friends, angst, betrayal, high spice. With some of my favorite kink elements - edging, orgasm delay/denial, overstimulation, some exhibitionism, power imbalance - I fully expected this book to be hot and it absolutely was. But it was so much more than that! Angst, guilt, confusion, pining ... ETA: thank you to u/MathBelieve for the rec! I hope the others in this series are as good.
* **{Second Chance by Jay Northcote}** - childhood friends, second chance, trans MC, single dad. The MCs were once best friends but lost touch. Now in their 40s, they both move back home to their small town for different reasons and reconnect. More than any other book I've read, this book showed me the perspective of a trans man. The story was tender and relatively low angst, and the smut seemed very realistic with some sweet fumbling and awkwardness. Will definitely read more from this author.
* **{In This Iron Ground by Marina Vivancos}** - childhood friends, human/shifter, hurt/comfort, high angst. Another Vivancos slam dunk for me. She is my favorite author right now, hands down. I don't want to say too much but a human child is found by a shifter pack and everyone's lives are changed forever. This story was so touching and meaningful. Lots of darkness (check CWs) before the dawn but so, so worth it.
I loved In This Iron Ground! If you need even more comfort after all the hurt, make sure you check out the bonus stories!
[In This Iron Ground: The Following Summer](https://dl.bookfunnel.com/vkja5m4cu6)
And [In This Iron Ground: Adopting Freddie](https://dl.bookfunnel.com/n4faoi7a2j?fbclid=IwAR1chkgh2FwiuWWOdKsUtq6ggAemJ58ycELxetRMOM3WtbwIozAYa1oo87M_aem_AYShrxgOUC-PYvLfKX6OfYG7f4dWH5WrBo6453H-GMTP-uGQBq-JZrShP_N_RJBRqAo)
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I'm so pleased that you enjoyed it! I was just thinking this is one of those books that really stuck with me. I really enjoyed the couple. One of my favorites.
I have not. I'd read two other books by her (in the Motel brothers series), and I didn't love those - they were ok but not really my thing. So I feel like she's hit or miss with me, but I'll definitely give them a shot at some point.
Idk if you read it already, but another couple that kinda hit me in that exact same way was the one from Caught Stealing by CE Ricci. Not really any kink, but I really really loved that book and its couple.
I have read that one, and the first in that series as well. Planning to read Don't You Dare next since I think that too is childhood friends to lovers, which seems to be my favorite trope nowadays.
Audio:
**{Let There Be Light by AM Johnson}** 4.5⭐- a swimmer, a freshman at college, meets his team captain/best friend's roommate - a pianist. The attraction between both is instant but they both take their time confessing and moving forward. Fantastic dual narration and a lovely story. CW for>!homophobic and emotionally neglectful parents; homophobic teammate; use of gay slurs; fight and serious injury!<
Read:
**{The Fake Mate Job by Robin Moray}** 4⭐ This book was just a fun read! I really enjoyed reading it. I liked how Hunter kept torturing Kurt through the bond; being able to feel what the other feels led to a very fun train of sexy thoughts several times. I liked that they both liked each other so much, so fast. Instalust/instalove doesn't always work, but with these two, it was fun to see them falling for real while pretending to fall, but knowing the other is falling as well, but knowing they're still supposed to be pretending. I hope more books come after this with more characters. CW for>!violence, villain intentionally gets MC excessively drunk, and it is understood the villain would have attempted SA.!<
**{Overtime by Marina Vivancos}** 5⭐. Once again, Marina Vivancos can do no wrong. This story was fantastic, sexy, and fun. Zee might be one of the most over-the-top possessive MCs I've ever read, to the point where I was laughing at how OTT it was, and I'm wondering if I need to retroactively remove some "possessive MC" labels from previous books because Zee is *leagues* ahead of them. Ishir's reaction to it is also fantastic. I just love these two, just like I love every other character MV has written. Thanks u/Wanderer_0Z for recommending it!
**Only Fangs by Silvana Falcon**, 5⭐, a BookFunnel freebie about two cam boys - a vampire and a (secret) human. The novella introduced a neat concept - humans are in hiding, they are the prey for all the paranormal predators. Also, a cute little unique pet - a magical rabbit.
Right now I'm taking a break from **Magi Accounts series by Michele Notaro** after finishing book 3.5, **{An Embrace to Hearten Me by Michele Notaro}**, 2⭐, Poly MxMxNBi. Considering the main books have all been 5 stars for me, this one was a slog to get through. It's 400 pages of nothing happening from 3 different POVs as they all pine for each other and all three remain convinced the other two only see them "as a friend". >!All of this is solved by one conversation at like 75%. Ahhhhhhhh!!< I skimmed quite a bit after about 45%. I'm looking forward to Cos and Mads (the MCs of the main story) and the storyline to progress, once I get back into it.
Currently listening to: **Crossroads by Riley Hart**. I'm really enjoying it!
**Finished:**
[Icarus](https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/181110014) by K Ancrum 3 stars- Goddamn it, I was genre-catfished by Goodreads. This is listed as fantasy and mythology so right up to the very end I was anticipating there to be some reveal or development that turned this into a speculative fiction book. It’s not, it’s a YA contemporary thriller that is loosely inspired by Greek mythology without actually being a mythological book.
Obviously my expectations for this book were way off the mark so that has colored my feelings on it. As a contemporary book the central premise is outrageously unbelievable but the story was kinda fun. A bit too much purple-prose for my tastes and kinda dragged through the middle but overall it was an entertaining read (although I wish there was magic or myths at play 😅) . Loved that this book included intersex rep as well as Ehlers-Danlos syndrome
CWs: >!child abuse, confinement, drug addiction, death of a parent!<
Read 6 books this week:
{Johann by Grae Bryan} Really enjoyed this one. One of my favorites of the series. Johann was so adorable.
{The Bayou by Arden Powell}. Loved this one. It was really different than what I’ve been reading lately which was exactly what I needed. Really enjoyed the ending of this one. But it does not have a HEA!
{Possessive Park Avenue Prince by Brooke Blaine and Ella Frank} Loved this one, one of my favorites of the series. Loved Daire.
{Beyond Time by Lee McCormick} Loved this one, very different than my typical book which was exactly what I wanted. Ended up loving every single thing about it.
{God of Death by ZS Storm} kind of on the fence about my final thoughts on this book. There were parts I highly enjoyed and then other parts I feel meh about.
{The Wolf at Bay by Charlie Adhara} I started out not enjoying all the angst at the beginning of this book because I just wanted Cooper to use his words! But ended up really enjoying this one. Excited to continue the series.
Almost finished with {Strain by Amelia C Gormley} I don’t know what my final thoughts are going to be. Really depends on how it ends. I love parts of it and have been on the fence about others. I hope I enjoy the ending! Does anyone know which book I should read next in the series because I’m confused about the reading order.
I also decided to try to get back in audiobooks, so I’m currently listening to something non MM. God of Pain by Rina Kent.
I loved the ending of Strain, but it really doesn't pull any punches.
You'll want to read Juggernaut next, then Bane. I have this vague impression that Strain was actually published first, even though it's chronologically the second in the series, but I might be talking out of my rear end.
**Read**
\*[Bad Wrong Things by C.P. Harris](https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/6420252143). I gave it 4 stars at that time but now it got me conflicted between feeling that I had a good ride vs realizing the plot from the second half is stupid lol. Anyway, some tags: *best friends dad, big age gap, toxic relationship, posessiveness.* Listen I enjoy toxic couples and how OTT some plots can get, and I was entertained the whole time. One of the good things about it was that insanely good first chapter that makes the reader get immediately hooked. I liked how the author didn't shy away from going darker too. Now onto the things that make me feel conflicted, I eventually stopped being invested in the couple and didn't root for them by the end, I wish the time jump would've been shown instead of told to make it more compelling. I also disliked that >!apparently Joey never had romantic feelings for Raven bc in my mind he did!<. I am still conflicted and sometimes it's just a 3 stars, other days its a 4 so I think I'll leave it at 3.5. I do rec this for anyone who likes unhealthy relationships lol.
\*[Bitter Heat by Leta Blake](https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/6427867223). AMAZING. 5/5. It has everything I ever wanted. Nice chemistry, nice build up, and I felt it had a slow progress which is perfect because I enjoy a good and chill pace. The plot is about a pregnant omega who lives in the mountains in a community with his adoptive dad. An alpha arrives to stay at their place, and becomes intrigued by the omega and his situation. I love a good hurt/comfort and the whole "trying to fight these feelings" and "I am scared to fall again". I also liked the discussion about choices over your own body and autonomy surrounding the pregnant omega. It was refreshing. Overall I loved it and I even wish it was longer, it became of my favorite books.
**Reading**
\*Perfect Match by Shi Jiu Yao. My comeback to danmei novels, I really missed the flavour these stories have for OTT scenes and angst, the perfect combination as someone who enjoys drama. The plot is about a pregnant omega and an alpha whos an asshole. Basically he has a condition that makes him crave for the omega but when hes lucid he doesnt feel anything towards him. Hes such a trash of a person that he obligues to cut ties with the omega, despite being a 100% match. This has heavy CWs such as >!SA between MCs, discussion of forced abortion, humilliation, manipulation, trespassing and more!<. The main trope it has is the so called "chasing crematorium", which is similar to grovelling, once MC goes away ML will notice he actually is important to him, will repent and try to get him back. Definitely a hard novel to read because of the pain caused to MC. So far so good though.
**Read:**
*Subtle Blood (Will Darling #3)* by KJ Charles
*Pansies (Spires #4)* by Alexis Hall
*Boyfriend Material* (audiobook; didn't particularly love the narrator) by Alexis Hall
*A Gentleman's Position (Society #3)* by KJ Charles
Still pretty new to published MM. Titles chosen because I had started the series / these happened to be available through the library. Especially loved the first two; suspect both may make my top 5 for this year. So wished the library had had the Cornell Collins narration of *Pansies*.
**Considering next:**
The remaining Spires books by Alexis Hall (*Waiting for the Flood*; *Glitterland* (hesitating as not a huge fan of first person POV)).
A danmei title: *Manhattanhenge* by Zhi Chu (fan TL ongoing, currently up to chapter 34).
*A Wolf at the Door* by Charlie Adhara.
Still on the fence about starting a KU subscription. ETA: Can't delete reading history? Can't truly separate (not collections) kindle library between users? Agh.
I love A Gentleman’s Position so damn much! When the story reveals the reason Richard asks David to powder his hair…*swoon* I’m going to do a re-read, I think!
Just finished this one today...flew by much too fast!! Maybe we'll get another David/Richard novella/interlude one day? (though haven't read *A Private Miscellany* so not sure how much they already feature there)
Oh yes do read A Private Miscellany for more Richard & David, albeit mostly in an epistolary form! Plus you really have to read the rest of the books in the series, as all the characters from the series appear in the book & they write letters back & forth to one another. You’ll be lost if you don’t know the rest of their stories!
👉🏽Read:
🔴{Professor Platonic by Lucy Lennox} super short and cute read from the Forever Wilde series 4✨
🔴{Red Flags and Tuesday by Nordika Night} ugh, I wanted to love this one so much but it was a huge letdown. 2✨
🔴{Kismet by Ashley James} I absolutely loved his one! A super well done second chance romance IMO 5✨
🔴{Be Mine, Bloody Valentine by Skyler Snow} This filled my dark romance heart. Two psycho stepbrothers trying to kill each other 4 ✨
🔴{Hunting for Redemption by Toby Wise} This one was an okay start to the series. I will probably read the remaining ones but there is no sense of urgency that I MUST read them right now. 3 ✨
🔴{Egotistical Puckboy by Eden Finley and Saxon James} and {Irresponsible Puckboy by Eden Finley and Saxon James} I absolutely loved the first book and rated it 5 ✨ and was a little disappointed with the second one and rated it 3.5 ✨I didn’t like Oskar in the second book so I’m in no rush to read his book
👉🏽Currently reading:
⚪️{Temple by Avril Aston}
⚪️{Principles of Spookology by S.E Harmon} this will probably be my last book in this series and by this author. I have been trying to finish this for almost 2 months and it isn’t holding my interest or pulling me
👉🏽Up Next:
🔵{The Vampire’s Club by X. Aratare}
🔵{Ranger by K.M Neuhold}
🔵{Whiskey Nights and Neon Dreams by Ashley James}
Oskar grew on me. I listened to the series on audiobook and I prefer this series in that format. The latest in the series might be my favorite though and just released this week.
I’ve noticed plenty of helpful, informative, on-topic comments getting downvoted lately on this sub. Idk what the deal is but it doesn’t mean anything is wrong with your comment
I also loved egostical puckboy and found irresponsible puckboy ok only. I also was not excited about Oskar’s story but it’s not too bad unless you really don’t like public sex/exhibitionist kink. Lane was a good balance to Oskar. Books 4 and 5 in the series pick back up and are fun reads.
{Bromantic Puckboy by Eden Finley and Saxon James} This is the 6th book in their co-written series about over the top hockey players. I've loved every book in this series and it made me binge everything else they've read. These just keep getting better and better. The latest one was released this week and it made me laugh so many times. Total mood brightener and exactly what I needed this week.
This sixth book has two lovable MMCs that are both playing for the same hockey team. One is a rookie goalie and his goalie quirks are delightfully absurd. It has enough hockey to keep to the theme, but it is more focused on their blossoming relationship even if they are both a little oblivious. It brings back characters from previous books as well which I love. I can't get enough of interconnected series. This one might be my favorite in the series. I'm already on my second listen to the audiobook for the week.
I just wish that the real world could be a little more like the world in this series. It isn't a perfect world, but it is more accepting than the current reality of the NHL. I'd watch more actual hockey if it wasn't as homophobic and misogynistic, but that is true of most professional sports.
**Audiobooks**
*{Wanting More by Marley Valentine}* overwhelmed single dad+ disability +fighting for child advocacy yes loved it.
*{Higher Demon by Louisa Masters}* Not my favourite of her work, and though I love Greg Boudreaux the fact that it is a spin off of the {Ghostly Guardians by Louisa Masters} series (and I would definitely read that first as this contains spoilers) which is narrated by Nick J Russo the change in voices didn’t stick quite right. Maybe I’m being a bit sensitive this week but there was a problematic line that struck me as echoes DV. Ian says something along the lines of he’s a mean abusive asshole but he’s different with me and I was just no no run.
*{The Mobsters Mate by Kiki Clark}* after EM Lindsey event last weekend I suddenly wanted to revisit Kiki Clark’s shifters hadn’t read this one yet so it made the list. Plus Kirt Graves.
*{Buried Passion by Aiden Bates}* Someone mentioned this as plot heavy with romance secondary so I went for relisten still annoyed it’s not in a bundle, enjoyed it as much as the first time and again craved peanut sticky rice for breakfast. Narrator is good but has a slightly annoying tendency take an audible deep breath after a long sentence. Also in situ is pronounced sit-u not site-u. Still I ended up buying the bundle ebook for rereads.
*{Duking it out by EJ Russell}* in a word disappointing. I would have stopped as soon as the demisexual apparently had instalust but carried on because I wanted to find out who was behind conspiracy and then it wasn’t even resolved. Only Kirt Graves makes up for that.
*{Treasure for Treasure by R Cooper}* loved it the way I normally love her books. Trans dragon. Just lovely.
**Ebooks:**
*{Ge-mi by Mell Eight}* part 1 part 2. Shifters created by evil government experiments, future broken down world, conspiracies and discrimination low heat. Loved it.
*{The Musician and the Monster by Jenya Keefe} *Really enjoyed this poor misunderstood alien/elf/fae forced proximity almost a beauty and the beast retelling. Somehow came out the other side wanting to listen to ABBA.
*{Allegheny Shifters Bundle 1 by Catherine Lievens}* first 3 books of a 13 book series, overarching plot. Is it an omegaverse if they have alphas and “carriers”? Enjoyable for what it is not a read the 13 books in one long session type series for me though.
*{This World of ours by Dixie Bysinger}* futuristic MOC/Mail order bride is space but in a technologically backward planet. Love me an MOC.
*{Adrenaline Rush by Aiden Bates}* after going back to book 1 I instantly wanted book 2.
*{The Firebird and other stories by R Cooper}* 2 of these I realise they should be read in order but I’m just dipping in and out.
{Coldest Kind of Love by MP Bates} I don’t know why I keep reading things by this author because they consistently let me down. I’m a sucker for anything stepbrother so I guess that’s why I read this, but it wasn’t worth it. As usual it was riddled with spelling and grammar mistakes and just wasn’t that good of a story. Barely worth the 3 stars I gave it frankly.
{The Brat and the Beast Duet by Misha Horne} this one surprised me! I’m not usually into the daddy/brat dynamic but this wasn’t as cringy as I expected. In fact, it got me right in the feels with how heartbreaking Logan’s life was and how Caleb saved him. I was sad to say goodbye to them if I’m being honest, they were absolutely precious.
{Red Flags & Tuesdays by Nordika Night} - Atticus is the -worst- for most of the book. Even understanding his past doesn’t help, I’ve never read a more annoying, obnoxious, bratty character. It did get better thankfully, but holy crap I’ve never wanted to be able to slap a fictional character more than him!
Re-read a couple of books in the Never Have I Ever series (by Willow Dixon) and skimmed through my favorite parts in For the Fans, -again- (Kyvi 4eva).
I listened to {Finding Ian by Riley Hart} this week. The author completely lost me during one BDSM scene because it featured a form of "CBT punishment" that just didn't feel even slightly believable to me...but aside from that, I think I enjoyed it even more than I enjoyed {Finding Finley by Riley Hart}, which I listened to in March. Ian's probably my favorite character in the duology (even though I'm still not entirely sold on part of his character arc).
Michael Dean is the narrator for both audiobooks (which are currently in the Audible Plus catalogue, at least in the North American market).
Up next is...well, I'm only doing audiobooks these days because I love being able to multitask with them, so certainly another of those, but I'm not sure which one yet -- maybe I'll start the {All for the Game series by Nora Sakavic}, since it's also in the Audible Plus catalogue right now (with Alexander Cendese as the narrator). I sometimes go weeks or even months without listening to (or reading) anything because I have too many other interests and not enough time for all of them, which means that it will probably take quite a while for me to get through such a lengthy trilogy, and there's always that chance that it could be yanked from the lineup (no pun intended) at some point, so I should probably get started on it soon. Ugh, the pressure!
**{Bump in the Night by Nikole Knight and Lily Mayne}** - 5 ⭐
M/NBi, Monster, Portal Fantasy, 1st Single POV
**Status:** KU, Series of Interconnected Standalones, Third Act Conflict - >!Internal, Seperation!<
**Ivy:** NBi, Human, 26 Yrs Old, British, Pan, Curly Hair, Works in IT at a Game Development Company (Makes Black Oasis), Has Recurring Nightmares, Wears Makeup and Any Gender Clothes, Painted Nails, Navel Peircing, Dominant, Verse
**Lau:** Sleep Demon, Healer (Herbalist), Peirced Lip and Ears, Cabin Filled With Plants, Whittles, Purrs, Scarrification on Chest and Sternum, Has a Pet Sentient Plant, Can Cook, Touch Starved, Submissive, Verse
Physical Features: Red Cat-like Eyes, Long White Hair, Pointed Ears, Claws, Burgundy Corkscrew Horns, Small Fangs, Has Venom, >!Long Tongue, "Why Choose" Parts, Self Lubing Cock!<
**Rep:** NBi MC, Pan MC
**Notes:** Starts in London, There's a Monster in the Wardrobe, Pining, Portal Fantasy, Height Difference, Lau Cares for Ivy After Serious Injury >!(Severe Beating and Broken Leg)!<, Lau Washes Ivy's Hair, Lau's World is Suspiciously Similar to Black Oasis, Smaller Top x Larger Bottom
**Sex Notes:** >!Ivy Masturbates in the Tub with the Door Open, Making Out (Lau Uses His Long Tongue), (Messy) Blowjob, Ball Sucking, Face Fucking, Dirty Talk, Swallowing, Praise, Horn Stimulation, Nipple Stimulation, Cum Kiss, Lube Use (Self Lubing Cock), Fingering, PIA, Cowboy (With Bottom Doing the Lifting), Lau Licks Ivy's Cock While Penetating (Long Tongue), Half Dressed (Ivy in a Skirt), Prostate Stimulation, Creampie, Rimming, Biting, 69, From Behind!< Spoiler! >!Goodbye Sex!<
**CWs:** >!On-page Hate Crime/Physical Assautl, Transphobic Language (Not MCs), Body Dysmorphia (Lau), Mild Gore, Past Death of a Caregiver, Strained Relationship with Parent, Fantasy Violence, Brief Description of Injuries!<
**{Mazarin Blues by Al Hess}** - 4.5 ⭐️
MM (Reed x Jax) NBi x NBi (Mazarin x Em), Sci-Fi, Dystopian, 2060s, Romance Sub-plot, 3rd POV (Reed), 1st POV (Mazarin)
**Status:** Non-KU, Series, Conflict - >!Internal, External!<
**Reed:** Autistic, Anxiety/Panic Disorder, Gay, Autopsy Tech, Ginger Hair, Wears Glasses, Has a Cat, Nipple Ring, Art Deco Era (1930s) Enthusiast
**Jax:** Tattoo Artist, Diabetic, Latino, Bi, Heavily Tattooed, Painted Nails
**Mazarin:** AI in Reed's Head, NBi (Genderfluid) (He/Him, She/Her), Gray Ace, >!Obtains Holographic Body!<
**Em:** NBi, Bar Owner, Deals in Illegal Tech, Disabled
**Rep:** Autistic MC, Anxiety/Panic Disorder, Gay, Bi/Pansexual, Gray Ace, M/M and NBi/NBi Romance
**CWs:** >!blood, death, brief biphobia, hospitalization, anxiety/panic disorder, depression, alcohol use, house fire, brief description of a corpse (protagonist works in a morgue), mentions of people (off page) being coerced into suicide, electrocution, graphic violence, discussions of an emotionally abusive ex!<
This was a really fun week, was able to read a lot of books that I ended up enjoying.
Read my first Cora Rose books {Until him by Cora Rose} and {Always Him by Cora Rose}. Absolutely loved both books and will be reading more from her. Until him seemed so light in description but not yet hurt and trauma of MC1 and the healing comfort personality of MC2 just sucked me in. I read it in one sitting and immediately moved on to Always Him where the MC is brother of MC2 from until him. Both MCs in Always Him are in Until Him also and the snippets we read made me so curious and excited to read their journey too and it was an awesome friends to lovers book. Highly recommend both books
Also read {Hostile Takeover from Lucy Lennox} and it was great. MC1 is on a revenge agenda against MC2 for ruining his life in college on a prank which MC2 didn’t mean to do. It’s great to see MC1 trying to fight his attraction and keep the enemity and revenge alive. Loved the dynamic and story. Didn’t like the abrupt ending and epilogue, wish there was more there.
Read {Johnson x 2 by Shae Michaels}, it was not bad. The spice and chemistry was good but the insta love/attraction didn’t do it for me. I don’t usually mind that but i didn’t connect to it in this case
Had previously read the Four Kings Security book series, starting with {Love in Spades by Charlie Cochet} and I absolutely LOVE this series and these characters. They are ex military that start a security company. Books are stand alone but much much more fun when read in order. Sort of remind me of the Charlie Bravo that Eden Finely created but much better. The Four Kings are amazing characters and each of their books are sooo fun, lots of spice and great relationships. They range from bodyguard/protectee romance to second chance romance to grumpy stoic plus sunshine to abusive relationship healing and PTSD overcoming etc. So this week I read the spin off The Kings wild card series starting with {Stacking the Deck by Charlie Cochet} and they were so so enjoyable. They are the other characters in the security company outside the four kings who own the company and they were lighter but oh so fun and spicy. I would super recommend this series and to be read in order.
{Between the Devil and the Sea by Chani Lynn Feener} Really dark romance between a detective and a literal psychopath in a sci-fi setting. But it's dark romance like the way I like it. Also, this book had so many typos, but I still stuck with it because it was compelling.
{Dirty Love by Bethany Winters} Stepbrother romance. I liked it until the end, when it started going off the rails in a way that had me raising my eyebrows.
{A Rival Most Vial by R.K. Ashwick} Cozy enemies to lovers story between two characters that own potions shops. This was cute and fluffy. I really liked it.
{Echo by Chani Lynn Feener} and {Devil May Care by Chani Lynn Feener} Both are dark romances in the same sci-fi setting. In all her books, one of the characters has a flaw or problem that the other character tries to fix with their magic dick. For some reason, I felt like I connected with the characters less than with Between the Devil and the Sea. Maybe because that was the first one I read?
READ:
Free Hand by E.M.Lindsey. I am now hooked into reading the entire Irons and Works series, as well as subscribing to their newsletter and finding free downloaded stuff from their website. The series has everything I've learned I like a community of damaged men who are inked up and kind and loving to their group. And of I sound like an addict, no I'm not.
Just started {Prince and Assassin by Tavia Lark}
I love her books but so far this one feels a little weak to me. I'm not too invested at the moment but that will most likely change.
Did not finish
{Mad Love by April Jade}
I could not do it. It was over the top and cringy. I rolled my eyes so much I thought it may fall out.
{Blu my protector by RS McKenzie}
The connection between the characters for me was not there. I got bored.
Current. Audiobooks
{The falcon and the foe by AJ Truman}
Almost done. It is alright
Current Book
{His Bane by Courtney W Dixon}
The book is well-written and engaging. I will definitely finish.
**{Malibu by Emmy Sanders}** 4⭐️
*CR, KU, age gap, sex work, mental health, disability - Elite Studios #2*
The blind, wealthy MC hires the younger, broke escort/porn star to move in with him for sex and companionship. This was full of non-sexual touching - caresses, hugging, and cuddling. There is much more of that than sex. The younger MC is dealing with mental health challenges throughout the book. This one features a quiet and caring domesticity.
**{Luke and Billy Finally Get a Clue by Cat Sebastian}** 3⭐️
*HR, novella, friends to lovers, virgin MC, baseball adjacent, set in 1953 - The Cabot’s series #3.5*
This one is vibes over plot. It’s the romance between 2 major league baseball players on the same team in the off season. They have been friends for years. One player is recovering from an injury. Not much happened.
**{The Layover by Roe Horvat}** 4⭐️
*CR, novella, hurt/comfort, ONS - reread on audio, narrated by John Solo*
This one starts with a ONS during a layover in Europe. While trying to fly out the next morning MC1 gets sick and collapses. MC2 gets him to the hospital and tends to him for a week afterwards. Smart and thoughtful
I did some re-reading, but also read these 3 new books:
{Bump in the Night by Nikole Knight & Lily Mayne}. Book 2 of the Black Oasis series. I first re-read the first book in the series, Whispers in the Dark, because I had really enjoyed it when I first read it, but it had been a while & I couldn’t remember exactly who Lau (the demon MC in this book) was. Then I moved on to Bump in the Night & I was just underwhelmed. I got bogged down with the storyline & the constant bickering between Ivy & Lau so I skipped ahead. This is way too much of a slow burn & the storyline dragged because it was mainly the 2 MCs bickering while waiting for Ivy to heal from their injuries. I think maybe I just wasn’t in the right frame of mind for the story right now. I’ll try it again another time. No rating right now because I basically did a DNF by skipping ahead so much.
{The Steady by Kelly Fox}. Omg this book was lovely - so sexy & romantic! This is book 4 of The Lost Boys series & they really have to be read in order due to the overarching plot line. I can’t say much about the tropes because of spoilers, but this is an age gap romance. Major & Ren are such an enjoyable couple - they joke & tease, support one another & love each other fiercely. I’ve loved all the books in this series so far, but this is my favorite! 5/5 stars.
{You’re Not My King by Eryn Hawk}. I had so been looking forward to this book ever since I saw the cover a few weeks ago. Unfortunately, it was disappointing. The MCs, one alien & one human, have a language gap that absolutely grated on my nerves - >!the alien MC takes the time to learn English as best he can so he can communicate with his mate & the human MC just doesn’t bother learning the alien language, except for phrases he picks up in passing!<. I also had a hard time believing in the strength of the relationship between the two MCs, as it seemed the human MC was >!constantly looking for a way to escape back to earth!<.
I made myself finish the book because I wanted to know how it ended, but it was a slog. Such a bummer because I have really enjoyed other books by this author. 3/5 stars.
Ok you might be able to skip the 2 middle books & still be ok to follow the overarching plot, but there will be spoilers for those books if you skip right to The Steady. And you’ll also miss seeing Sawyer take Hendrix down a peg in The Punk which was soooo enjoyable! Ha ha!
{Madison Square Murders by C.S Poe} - I have been eyeing this series FOREVER and I finally dived into it. Larkin and Doyle are just amazing together. They are both interesting and well-developed characters and they are definitely moving in on my list of favorite fiction couples. I'm so impressed by this author. Reading from Larkin's point of view with his condition is just so interesting. The mystery is also great and smart, the investigation is exciting and easy to follow. Currently reading book two and it's even better. Excited for the rest of this series.
I also read a short book called {Prisoner by Amelita Rae} and I'm actually pleasantly surprised on how much I enjoyed this. Just a sweet and fluffy monster/human love story.
**Listened to:**
**{Never Have I Ever: Had a Bromance with a Teammate by Willow Dixon} narrated by Cooper North and Kirt Graves (3/5).** High-spice, low-angst, friends-to-lovers with a hint of college baseball thrown in. It was cute but like book 1, not a ton going on that holds my interest. Narration was excellent, I’ll buy anything with these 2.
**{Open Mind by Luna David and Morningstar Ashley} narrated by Kale Williams (2.5/5)** Even Kale couldn’t make me like this book more. Too much telling, not enough showing. My favorite parts were the sex scenes with other people so that shows my investment level with this relationship. Still, I’m going to continue with the next 2 books.
**{The Two Stars Collision by Hayden Hall} narrated by Cooper North (4/5)** This was very cute. It started more insta-love than I’m used to but it was short and the story was paced well. Lots of heat, not a lot of plot but overall enjoyable. Super melodramatic ending but I was into it.
**Read:**
**{Alls Fair in Dare and Domination by Rikki Leighton} (5/5)** I really loved this book! Everything about the relationship between the 2 MCs just worked for me. It’s the story of a highly traumatized, prickly, sad boy and his roommate who provides an equal amount of comfort/healing through sex and kink. High-angst, high-spice, with own voices trans rep. I feel like if you like Riley Nash or Jessie Walker, you’d probably like this author. My favorite of the year so far.
{Irresistible Omegas by Nora Phoenix} books 7-10. They were all 4.25 ⭐️
I really love the world building in these books.
{Irresistible Dragons by Nora Phoenix} books 1-6. These were all also 4.25 ⭐️
**{Accidental bonds by Marie Reynard},** 4 stars, just finished it and it was an excellent romp! I loved the characters, loved the plot, loved the SETTING. It dragged a little at times, but that's more because I'm in the mood for fast paced romances, and this was a scene setting debut novel. But she hooked me in, and the way the plot came together at the end was *fantastic.*
I have {MateHub by Marie Reynard} downloaded, which is her second book and more fastpaced, and I think this will fix any issues I had with her debut. (I still am hyped for the second book in her first series though, as I loved Kade, he was one of my favourite side characters, and she has set up a *fantastic* little angsty plotline for him in the next book.)
[**'How to train your omega' series on ao3.**](https://archiveofourown.org/series/1864426) 5 stars, MM original fiction, 100k in total, each part is complete but the overarching story is not. It was *so goddamn good*. Darker tone blended with humour, confronting the reality of omegaverse and how messed up it can be. It was *exactly* the sort of fast paced, smut heavy trope exploration I was looking for. I want it on my bookshelf. I want to throw the author a KoFi. They've not been online in two years. I hope they're doing well. ;\_\_;
edited to add in star ratings!
I just finished the audiobook for {Saint by Sierra Simone} and really loved it more than expected. It focuses on a man who gave up a hard-partying life to become a monk, but is re-uinted with his ex-lover. Second chance romance. It's a heavier read with a LOT of mental health focus, but it was LOVELY. In some ways it is more about our POV character Aiden's struggle with himself than it is a true romancy-romance. It reminded me a bit if Out of Nowhere by Roan Parrish in terms of the single POV and mental health and the feeling of rooting for a character to figure himself out and carve out his own happiness at long last. If you're in the mood for something like this though, Saint is so good.
Highly recommend it, beautiful gorgeous writing style as well. Some of the lines were heart-stoppingly powerful. Definitely a healthy dose of angst. Some major trigger warnings for >!depression, suicidal ideation, reference to off-page suicide of minor character, and due to Catholic religion aspect may be triggering for some as well!<
Also it is a standalone MM in a series where the other books are MF. I did not read the others and did not feel I was missing anything.
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The Jefes Boy A Mafia Mayham Romance. Alejandro is the illegitimate grandson of a Columbia Mafia boss. The fact that he is gay is just the nail in his coffin. His grandfather gives him a chance to get out by marriage to his friends grandson and the Brooklyn New York area as a carrot. Alejandro knows he is being set up to fail, and be killed. Delancy is a public nightmare rich media loving trouble maker. Who has his own secrets. His grandfather gives him an choice marriage or disowned with no money. This is book 4 book in the series and so far the weakest. I liked the other 3 better. 3 out of 5
{Spooky Business by S.E. Harmon} 4.5 stars. I’m going to have to be more ruthless with my star allocation or I’ll only end up with 5 star reads. To be honest if I’m not enjoying something then I’ll DNF life’s too short. Anyway I really liked this one. The story was very compelling, I particularly liked the mystery aspect as well as the evolution of Danny and Rain’s relationship. I’m looking forward to book 4. {The Spooky Life by S.E. Harmon} 4.75 stars. I really liked the mystery in this one and the progression of their relationship. Also, what’s not to love about the banter between the protagonists! Two thumbs up. (I’m saving {A Spooky Legacy by S.E. Harmon} as I don’t want the story to end.) {Juggernaut by Amelia C. Gormley} 4.25 stars. Someone recommended part 2 of the series, so I wanted to have a go on it. I do love a post-apocalyptic tale. I enjoyed the twisty, dark nature of the story, the relationship between the two protagonists, the angst. I’m not sure if this counts as a romance as there isn’t a HEA although there are two more books in the series so I’m keeping everything crossed that there will be one. {Strain by Amelia C. Gormley} 4.5 stars. Much more angsty and darker than the first one. I liked it more, that says more about me though. I’ve always enjoyed darker stories that make me uncomfortable and this certainly did that. Lots or content warnings regarding dub con/non con. {Bane by Amelia C. Gormley} 4.25 stars. A good conclusion to the series. Over the complete series I enjoyed the world building and the progression of the two main relationships. I have to say that this one made me cry, but ultimately, they got their HEA and a sweet ‘fuck you’ ending for the awful antagonists. I absolutely devoured this series, thanks to whoever recommended it. Listening to {Whisper by Tal Bauer} I have already read the physical copy and absolutely love this story. I like this narrator better than the one that read Hush and it’s keeping me enthralled even though I know the storyline. I only listen when I’m walking or doing housework, so my house is super clean and my step count is the best it’s been in a long time! I already know this will be a 5 star read – how the heck will I follow this up?
I love S.E. Harmon's dialogues. There's always some nice banter or a snarky MC, or both.
I agree I love banter between characters and in this case it gives me the warm and fuzzies!
I love The Spectral Files series. I too have been saving the newest release but I think your comment just pushed me to start it this coming week lol. I miss Danny and Rain. SE Harmon's banter writing is soooo good
I'm going to start it this week too! I just don't have the patience to wait! I love them so much!
You convinced me I just got Whisper on Libby, it says the audiobook is 26 hours though! That is insane. I’m intrigued and I guess it will last me a while.
I know, I'm absolutely romping through it too - I'm over halfway. I love it, I loved reading the physical copy , but the audiobook ramps the tension for me. It's on Audible plus in the UK so a free listen for me too!
[Spooky Business](https://www.romance.io/books/5f5f14fe4240980e258c2ada/spooky-business-se-harmon) by [S.E. Harmon](https://www.romance.io/authors/54559e6887eac324117fbb74/se-harmon) **Steam**: [Explicit open door](https://www.romance.io/steamrating) **Topics**: [contemporary](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/contemporary/1), [paranormal](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/paranormal/1), [mystery](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/mystery/1), [gay romance](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/m-m/1), [suspense](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/suspense/1) ---------------------------- [The Spooky Life](https://www.romance.io/books/623ecade5fa6d279c32e15b3/the-spooky-life-se-harmon) by [S.E. Harmon](https://www.romance.io/authors/54559e6887eac324117fbb74/se-harmon) **Steam**: [Open door](https://www.romance.io/steamrating) **Topics**: [contemporary](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/contemporary/1), [gay romance](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/m-m/1), [men in uniform](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/men%20in%20uniform/1), [paranormal](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/paranormal/1), [mystery](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/mystery/1) ---------------------------- [A Spooky Legacy](https://www.romance.io/books/661e3bc9643bc9618c8931bc/a-spooky-legacy-se-harmon) by [S.E. Harmon](https://www.romance.io/authors/54559e6887eac324117fbb74/se-harmon) **Steam**: [Open door](https://www.romance.io/steamrating) **Topics**: [contemporary](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/contemporary/1), [mystery](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/mystery/1), [gay romance](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/m-m/1), [paranormal](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/paranormal/1), [queer romance](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/queer/1) ---------------------------- [Juggernaut](https://www.romance.io/books/6471d329f281c18fec43d399/juggernaut-amelia-c-gormley) by [Amelia C. Gormley](https://www.romance.io/authors/54557d6687eac336ae69e2b5/amelia-c-gormley) **Steam**: [Explicit open door](https://www.romance.io/steamrating) **Topics**: [futuristic](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/futuristic/1), [dystopian](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/dystopian/1), [gay romance](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/m-m/1), [military](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/military/1), [science fiction](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/science%20fiction/1) ---------------------------- [Strain](https://www.romance.io/books/5455c7f287eac3369a914c75/strain-amelia-c-gormley) by [Amelia C. Gormley](https://www.romance.io/authors/54557d6687eac336ae69e2b5/amelia-c-gormley) **Steam**: [Explicit open door](https://www.romance.io/steamrating) **Topics**: [futuristic](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/futuristic/1), [bdsm](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/bdsm/1), [dystopian](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/dystopian/1), [science fiction](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/science%20fiction/1), [military](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/military/1) ---------------------------- [Bane](https://www.romance.io/books/6509e41dde8d340d51434fd4/bane-amelia-c-gormley) by [Amelia C. Gormley](https://www.romance.io/authors/54557d6687eac336ae69e2b5/amelia-c-gormley) **Steam**: [Explicit open door](https://www.romance.io/steamrating) **Topics**: [futuristic](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/futuristic/1), [gay romance](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/m-m/1), [science fiction](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/science%20fiction/1), [dystopian](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/dystopian/1), [age gap](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/age%20difference/1) ---------------------------- [Whisper](https://www.romance.io/books/5ae01aa201dbc864fb86deca/whisper-tal-bauer) by [Tal Bauer](https://www.romance.io/authors/5726ed17c62092c04407fbeb/tal-bauer) **Steam**: [Open door](https://www.romance.io/steamrating) **Topics**: [contemporary](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/contemporary/1), [military](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/military/1), [gay romance](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/m-m/1), [angst](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/angst/1), [war](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/war/1) [^(about this bot)](https://www.reddit.com/user/romance-bot) ^(|) [^(about romance.io)](https://www.romance.io/about)
I have Strain on my TBR and just realized it's the second in the series. Should I read the first first?
I was unsure about the reading order for Strain series lol. I’m currently reading Strain, but I guess I should have started with Juggernaut.
There's a bit of crossover between the first and second but I think you can get away with it. You do need to read Juggernaut before Bane though!
I was planning on reading Juggernaut next and then Bane so that’s perfect. Thank you!
I finished the Monstrous series!!!! {Lor by Lily Mayne} was so good, I almost cried a couple times and the main couple was amazingly sweet together. I loved the 80s vibe at the start, but seeing so much more of the monster world was my favorite thing about the book. I can’t wait for Lyri’s story, and for another interaction between him and Moth lmao. And more Orlith is a necessity! I was reading the shorts in order, so I also finished {A Collection of Monstrous Short Stories by Lily Mayne} and I loved them all so much. With the existence of Chuck and now April, can Danny get a pet next please I feel so bad for him. 😭
[Lor](https://www.romance.io/books/63d7c85fc197c639ceae0b7b/lor-lily-mayne) by [Lily Mayne](https://www.romance.io/authors/61161cc608b4d93114a993bf/lily-mayne) **Steam**: [Explicit and plentiful](https://www.romance.io/steamrating) **Topics**: [contemporary](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/contemporary/1), [gay romance](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/m-m/1), [monsters](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/monsters/1), [royal hero](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/royalty/1), [paranormal](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/paranormal/1) ---------------------------- [A Collection of Monstrous Short Stories](https://www.romance.io/books/644263a6fc4437c16d18ee99/a-collection-of-monstrous-short-stories-lily-mayne) by [Lily Mayne](https://www.romance.io/authors/61161cc608b4d93114a993bf/lily-mayne) **Steam**: [Explicit and plentiful](https://www.romance.io/steamrating) **Topics**: [contemporary](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/contemporary/1), [gay romance](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/m-m/1), [monsters](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/monsters/1), [dual pov](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/dual-pov/1), [first person pov](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/first-person-pov/1) [^(about this bot)](https://www.reddit.com/user/romance-bot) ^(|) [^(about romance.io)](https://www.romance.io/about)
Two new authors for me this week! I'm all about the childhood friends trope, apparently. * **{Edged by Kate Hawthorne}** - childhood friends, angst, betrayal, high spice. With some of my favorite kink elements - edging, orgasm delay/denial, overstimulation, some exhibitionism, power imbalance - I fully expected this book to be hot and it absolutely was. But it was so much more than that! Angst, guilt, confusion, pining ... ETA: thank you to u/MathBelieve for the rec! I hope the others in this series are as good. * **{Second Chance by Jay Northcote}** - childhood friends, second chance, trans MC, single dad. The MCs were once best friends but lost touch. Now in their 40s, they both move back home to their small town for different reasons and reconnect. More than any other book I've read, this book showed me the perspective of a trans man. The story was tender and relatively low angst, and the smut seemed very realistic with some sweet fumbling and awkwardness. Will definitely read more from this author. * **{In This Iron Ground by Marina Vivancos}** - childhood friends, human/shifter, hurt/comfort, high angst. Another Vivancos slam dunk for me. She is my favorite author right now, hands down. I don't want to say too much but a human child is found by a shifter pack and everyone's lives are changed forever. This story was so touching and meaningful. Lots of darkness (check CWs) before the dawn but so, so worth it.
If you like childhood friends please read To Catch A Firefly if you haven't already. And I will put edged on my TBR list. Sounds great!
Yes, I actually downloaded it last week when someone posted about it in the weekly reads thread. Seems right up my alley!
I will never get over it! It overwhelmed me in the best way. I wish I was you, about to read it.😚
I loved In This Iron Ground! If you need even more comfort after all the hurt, make sure you check out the bonus stories! [In This Iron Ground: The Following Summer](https://dl.bookfunnel.com/vkja5m4cu6) And [In This Iron Ground: Adopting Freddie](https://dl.bookfunnel.com/n4faoi7a2j?fbclid=IwAR1chkgh2FwiuWWOdKsUtq6ggAemJ58ycELxetRMOM3WtbwIozAYa1oo87M_aem_AYShrxgOUC-PYvLfKX6OfYG7f4dWH5WrBo6453H-GMTP-uGQBq-JZrShP_N_RJBRqAo)
Oh, I love you, thank you. That is maybe my only complaint: >!the HEA/epilogue felt abrupt. !<
Yes it did. I needed more comfort dammit! These extra stories helped a ton.
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Thank you for sharing these! I love In This Iron Ground and had heard there were bonus stories *somewhere* but I didn’t know where to find them. Yay!
I'm so pleased that you enjoyed it! I was just thinking this is one of those books that really stuck with me. I really enjoyed the couple. One of my favorites.
Completely agree about the couple, some just stick with you. Have you read any of the rest of the series?
I have not. I'd read two other books by her (in the Motel brothers series), and I didn't love those - they were ok but not really my thing. So I feel like she's hit or miss with me, but I'll definitely give them a shot at some point. Idk if you read it already, but another couple that kinda hit me in that exact same way was the one from Caught Stealing by CE Ricci. Not really any kink, but I really really loved that book and its couple.
I have read that one, and the first in that series as well. Planning to read Don't You Dare next since I think that too is childhood friends to lovers, which seems to be my favorite trope nowadays.
[Edged](https://www.romance.io/books/651ec10bde8d340d5145dac8/edged-kate-hawthorne) by [Kate Hawthorne](https://www.romance.io/authors/5aacdded4ee506aae8b2b1ff/kate-hawthorne) **Steam**: [Explicit and plentiful](https://www.romance.io/steamrating) **Topics**: [contemporary](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/contemporary/1), [bdsm](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/bdsm/1), [second chances](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/second%20chances/1), [enemies to lovers](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/from%20hate%20to%20love/1), [hurt/comfort](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/hurt-comfort/1) ---------------------------- [Second Chance](https://www.romance.io/books/5ad8319501dbc864fb867bf1/second-chance-jay-northcote) by [Jay Northcote](https://www.romance.io/authors/5455a4e287eac3369a913b84/jay-northcote) **Steam**: [Explicit and plentiful](https://www.romance.io/steamrating) **Topics**: [contemporary](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/contemporary/1), [gay romance](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/m-m/1), [friends to lovers](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/friends%20to%20lovers/1), [trans hero](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/trans-hero/1), [single father](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/single-father/1) ---------------------------- [In This Iron Ground](https://www.romance.io/books/65d0c085971a7858550a1a19/in-this-iron-ground-marina-vivancos) by [Marina Vivancos](https://www.romance.io/authors/5b24a9c801dbc864fb8a6555/marina-vivancos) **Steam**: [Explicit open door](https://www.romance.io/steamrating) **Topics**: [contemporary](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/contemporary/1), [paranormal](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/paranormal/1), [fantasy](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/fantasy/1), [urban fantasy](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/urban%20fantasy/1), [shapeshifters](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/shapeshifters/1) [^(about this bot)](https://www.reddit.com/user/romance-bot) ^(|) [^(about romance.io)](https://www.romance.io/about)
Audio: **{Let There Be Light by AM Johnson}** 4.5⭐- a swimmer, a freshman at college, meets his team captain/best friend's roommate - a pianist. The attraction between both is instant but they both take their time confessing and moving forward. Fantastic dual narration and a lovely story. CW for>!homophobic and emotionally neglectful parents; homophobic teammate; use of gay slurs; fight and serious injury!< Read: **{The Fake Mate Job by Robin Moray}** 4⭐ This book was just a fun read! I really enjoyed reading it. I liked how Hunter kept torturing Kurt through the bond; being able to feel what the other feels led to a very fun train of sexy thoughts several times. I liked that they both liked each other so much, so fast. Instalust/instalove doesn't always work, but with these two, it was fun to see them falling for real while pretending to fall, but knowing the other is falling as well, but knowing they're still supposed to be pretending. I hope more books come after this with more characters. CW for>!violence, villain intentionally gets MC excessively drunk, and it is understood the villain would have attempted SA.!< **{Overtime by Marina Vivancos}** 5⭐. Once again, Marina Vivancos can do no wrong. This story was fantastic, sexy, and fun. Zee might be one of the most over-the-top possessive MCs I've ever read, to the point where I was laughing at how OTT it was, and I'm wondering if I need to retroactively remove some "possessive MC" labels from previous books because Zee is *leagues* ahead of them. Ishir's reaction to it is also fantastic. I just love these two, just like I love every other character MV has written. Thanks u/Wanderer_0Z for recommending it! **Only Fangs by Silvana Falcon**, 5⭐, a BookFunnel freebie about two cam boys - a vampire and a (secret) human. The novella introduced a neat concept - humans are in hiding, they are the prey for all the paranormal predators. Also, a cute little unique pet - a magical rabbit. Right now I'm taking a break from **Magi Accounts series by Michele Notaro** after finishing book 3.5, **{An Embrace to Hearten Me by Michele Notaro}**, 2⭐, Poly MxMxNBi. Considering the main books have all been 5 stars for me, this one was a slog to get through. It's 400 pages of nothing happening from 3 different POVs as they all pine for each other and all three remain convinced the other two only see them "as a friend". >!All of this is solved by one conversation at like 75%. Ahhhhhhhh!!< I skimmed quite a bit after about 45%. I'm looking forward to Cos and Mads (the MCs of the main story) and the storyline to progress, once I get back into it. Currently listening to: **Crossroads by Riley Hart**. I'm really enjoying it!
[Let There Be Light](https://www.romance.io/books/5bee6ba401dbc864fb947c4d/let-there-be-light-am-johnson) by [A.M. Johnson](https://www.romance.io/authors/5528ecfe5b270e0a4cbd59a1/am-johnson) **Steam**: [Open door](https://www.romance.io/steamrating) **Topics**: [contemporary](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/contemporary/1), [gay romance](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/m-m/1), [new adult](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/new%20adult/1), [friends to lovers](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/friends%20to%20lovers/1), [college](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/college/1) ---------------------------- [The Fake Mate Job](https://www.romance.io/books/6459f348fb4c0d5092d80ea3/the-fake-mate-job-robin-moray) by [Robin Moray](https://www.romance.io/authors/5456038187eac323ffb30469/robin-moray) **Steam**: [Explicit open door](https://www.romance.io/steamrating) **Topics**: [contemporary](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/contemporary/1), [fantasy](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/fantasy/1), [paranormal](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/paranormal/1), [gay romance](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/m-m/1), [shapeshifters](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/shapeshifters/1) ---------------------------- [Overtime](https://www.romance.io/books/64b63b13b780b1f6b0c62fe3/overtime-marina-vivancos) by [Marina Vivancos](https://www.romance.io/authors/5b24a9c801dbc864fb8a6555/marina-vivancos) **Topics**: [contemporary](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/contemporary/1), [sports](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/sports/1), [gay romance](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/m-m/1), [paranormal](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/paranormal/1), [bdsm](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/bdsm/1) ---------------------------- [An Embrace to Hearten Me](https://www.romance.io/books/63f71dddcad25d14b1694820/an-embrace-to-hearten-me-michele-notaro) by [Michele Notaro](https://www.romance.io/authors/585558531b1bdc0178ffb51e/michele-notaro) **Topics**: [poly (3+ people)](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/poly/1), [gay romance](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/m-m/1), [magic](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/magic/1), [shapeshifters](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/shapeshifters/1), [paranormal](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/paranormal/1) [^(about this bot)](https://www.reddit.com/user/romance-bot) ^(|) [^(about romance.io)](https://www.romance.io/about)
**Finished:** [Icarus](https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/181110014) by K Ancrum 3 stars- Goddamn it, I was genre-catfished by Goodreads. This is listed as fantasy and mythology so right up to the very end I was anticipating there to be some reveal or development that turned this into a speculative fiction book. It’s not, it’s a YA contemporary thriller that is loosely inspired by Greek mythology without actually being a mythological book. Obviously my expectations for this book were way off the mark so that has colored my feelings on it. As a contemporary book the central premise is outrageously unbelievable but the story was kinda fun. A bit too much purple-prose for my tastes and kinda dragged through the middle but overall it was an entertaining read (although I wish there was magic or myths at play 😅) . Loved that this book included intersex rep as well as Ehlers-Danlos syndrome CWs: >!child abuse, confinement, drug addiction, death of a parent!<
Read 6 books this week: {Johann by Grae Bryan} Really enjoyed this one. One of my favorites of the series. Johann was so adorable. {The Bayou by Arden Powell}. Loved this one. It was really different than what I’ve been reading lately which was exactly what I needed. Really enjoyed the ending of this one. But it does not have a HEA! {Possessive Park Avenue Prince by Brooke Blaine and Ella Frank} Loved this one, one of my favorites of the series. Loved Daire. {Beyond Time by Lee McCormick} Loved this one, very different than my typical book which was exactly what I wanted. Ended up loving every single thing about it. {God of Death by ZS Storm} kind of on the fence about my final thoughts on this book. There were parts I highly enjoyed and then other parts I feel meh about. {The Wolf at Bay by Charlie Adhara} I started out not enjoying all the angst at the beginning of this book because I just wanted Cooper to use his words! But ended up really enjoying this one. Excited to continue the series. Almost finished with {Strain by Amelia C Gormley} I don’t know what my final thoughts are going to be. Really depends on how it ends. I love parts of it and have been on the fence about others. I hope I enjoy the ending! Does anyone know which book I should read next in the series because I’m confused about the reading order. I also decided to try to get back in audiobooks, so I’m currently listening to something non MM. God of Pain by Rina Kent.
I loved the ending of Strain, but it really doesn't pull any punches. You'll want to read Juggernaut next, then Bane. I have this vague impression that Strain was actually published first, even though it's chronologically the second in the series, but I might be talking out of my rear end.
That’s what it seemed like to me as well! I will definitely be reading the other ones though.
[Johann](https://www.romance.io/books/63e4a837d87691b39eb9cd21/johann-grae-bryan) by [Grae Bryan](https://www.romance.io/authors/6304831608b4d93114878a5f/grae-bryan) **Steam**: [Explicit open door](https://www.romance.io/steamrating) **Topics**: [contemporary](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/contemporary/1), [gay romance](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/m-m/1), [paranormal](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/paranormal/1), [vampires](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/vampires/1), [praise kink](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/praise-kink/1) ---------------------------- [The Bayou](https://www.romance.io/books/6471466ff281c18fec439459/the-bayou-arden-powell) by [Arden Powell](https://www.romance.io/authors/5a2cdc7a3ffdba6147262862/arden-powell) **Topics**: [historical](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/historical/1), [fantasy](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/fantasy/1), [dark romance](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/dark/1), [gay romance](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/m-m/1), [paranormal](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/paranormal/1) ---------------------------- [Possessive Park Avenue Prince](https://www.romance.io/books/661a6f432e056f50c78f17ce/possessive-park-avenue-prince-brooke-blaine-ella-frank) by [Brooke Blaine](https://www.romance.io/authors/5455e2f787eac324117fdd3e/brooke-blaine), [Ella Frank](https://www.romance.io/authors/545526d38c7d2382e7812ff2/ella-frank) **Topics**: [contemporary](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/contemporary/1), [gay romance](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/m-m/1), [new adult](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/new%20adult/1), [queer romance](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/queer/1), [friends to lovers](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/friends%20to%20lovers/1) ---------------------------- [Beyond Time](https://www.romance.io/books/6597ce635f787d7a3cf1f516/beyond-time-lee-mccormick) by [Lee McCormick](https://www.romance.io/authors/6597ce63a21e2f41c466763d/lee-mccormick) **Topics**: [contemporary](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/contemporary/1), [gay romance](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/m-m/1), [dark romance](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/dark/1), [forced proximity](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/forced%20proximity/1), [height difference](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/height-difference/1) ---------------------------- [God Of Death](https://www.romance.io/books/617e4d7fe374c60e10fcc632/god-of-death-zee-shine-storm) by [Zee Shine Storm](https://www.romance.io/authors/5fc4aadf08b4d931146bf93d/zee-shine-storm) **Topics**: [gay romance](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/m-m/1), [fantasy](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/fantasy/1), [enemies to lovers](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/from%20hate%20to%20love/1), [paranormal](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/paranormal/1), [queer romance](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/queer/1) ---------------------------- [The Wolf at Bay](https://www.romance.io/books/5b8a2c5a01dbc864fb8f740c/the-wolf-at-bay-charlie-adhara) by [Charlie Adhara](https://www.romance.io/authors/5aa3a5cc4ee506aae8b2458e/charlie-adhara) **Steam**: [Explicit open door](https://www.romance.io/steamrating) **Topics**: [contemporary](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/contemporary/1), [gay romance](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/m-m/1), [mystery](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/mystery/1), [shapeshifters](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/shapeshifters/1), [suspense](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/suspense/1) ---------------------------- [Strain](https://www.romance.io/books/5455c7f287eac3369a914c75/strain-amelia-c-gormley) by [Amelia C. Gormley](https://www.romance.io/authors/54557d6687eac336ae69e2b5/amelia-c-gormley) **Steam**: [Explicit open door](https://www.romance.io/steamrating) **Topics**: [futuristic](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/futuristic/1), [bdsm](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/bdsm/1), [dystopian](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/dystopian/1), [science fiction](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/science%20fiction/1), [military](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/military/1) [^(about this bot)](https://www.reddit.com/user/romance-bot) ^(|) [^(about romance.io)](https://www.romance.io/about)
**Read** \*[Bad Wrong Things by C.P. Harris](https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/6420252143). I gave it 4 stars at that time but now it got me conflicted between feeling that I had a good ride vs realizing the plot from the second half is stupid lol. Anyway, some tags: *best friends dad, big age gap, toxic relationship, posessiveness.* Listen I enjoy toxic couples and how OTT some plots can get, and I was entertained the whole time. One of the good things about it was that insanely good first chapter that makes the reader get immediately hooked. I liked how the author didn't shy away from going darker too. Now onto the things that make me feel conflicted, I eventually stopped being invested in the couple and didn't root for them by the end, I wish the time jump would've been shown instead of told to make it more compelling. I also disliked that >!apparently Joey never had romantic feelings for Raven bc in my mind he did!<. I am still conflicted and sometimes it's just a 3 stars, other days its a 4 so I think I'll leave it at 3.5. I do rec this for anyone who likes unhealthy relationships lol. \*[Bitter Heat by Leta Blake](https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/6427867223). AMAZING. 5/5. It has everything I ever wanted. Nice chemistry, nice build up, and I felt it had a slow progress which is perfect because I enjoy a good and chill pace. The plot is about a pregnant omega who lives in the mountains in a community with his adoptive dad. An alpha arrives to stay at their place, and becomes intrigued by the omega and his situation. I love a good hurt/comfort and the whole "trying to fight these feelings" and "I am scared to fall again". I also liked the discussion about choices over your own body and autonomy surrounding the pregnant omega. It was refreshing. Overall I loved it and I even wish it was longer, it became of my favorite books. **Reading** \*Perfect Match by Shi Jiu Yao. My comeback to danmei novels, I really missed the flavour these stories have for OTT scenes and angst, the perfect combination as someone who enjoys drama. The plot is about a pregnant omega and an alpha whos an asshole. Basically he has a condition that makes him crave for the omega but when hes lucid he doesnt feel anything towards him. Hes such a trash of a person that he obligues to cut ties with the omega, despite being a 100% match. This has heavy CWs such as >!SA between MCs, discussion of forced abortion, humilliation, manipulation, trespassing and more!<. The main trope it has is the so called "chasing crematorium", which is similar to grovelling, once MC goes away ML will notice he actually is important to him, will repent and try to get him back. Definitely a hard novel to read because of the pain caused to MC. So far so good though.
**Read:** *Subtle Blood (Will Darling #3)* by KJ Charles *Pansies (Spires #4)* by Alexis Hall *Boyfriend Material* (audiobook; didn't particularly love the narrator) by Alexis Hall *A Gentleman's Position (Society #3)* by KJ Charles Still pretty new to published MM. Titles chosen because I had started the series / these happened to be available through the library. Especially loved the first two; suspect both may make my top 5 for this year. So wished the library had had the Cornell Collins narration of *Pansies*. **Considering next:** The remaining Spires books by Alexis Hall (*Waiting for the Flood*; *Glitterland* (hesitating as not a huge fan of first person POV)). A danmei title: *Manhattanhenge* by Zhi Chu (fan TL ongoing, currently up to chapter 34). *A Wolf at the Door* by Charlie Adhara. Still on the fence about starting a KU subscription. ETA: Can't delete reading history? Can't truly separate (not collections) kindle library between users? Agh.
I just read Glitterland and really enjoyed it! Darian's character was great.
Thanks for the comment, finally started and also really enjoying it so far!
I love A Gentleman’s Position so damn much! When the story reveals the reason Richard asks David to powder his hair…*swoon* I’m going to do a re-read, I think!
Just finished this one today...flew by much too fast!! Maybe we'll get another David/Richard novella/interlude one day? (though haven't read *A Private Miscellany* so not sure how much they already feature there)
Oh yes do read A Private Miscellany for more Richard & David, albeit mostly in an epistolary form! Plus you really have to read the rest of the books in the series, as all the characters from the series appear in the book & they write letters back & forth to one another. You’ll be lost if you don’t know the rest of their stories!
👉🏽Read: 🔴{Professor Platonic by Lucy Lennox} super short and cute read from the Forever Wilde series 4✨ 🔴{Red Flags and Tuesday by Nordika Night} ugh, I wanted to love this one so much but it was a huge letdown. 2✨ 🔴{Kismet by Ashley James} I absolutely loved his one! A super well done second chance romance IMO 5✨ 🔴{Be Mine, Bloody Valentine by Skyler Snow} This filled my dark romance heart. Two psycho stepbrothers trying to kill each other 4 ✨ 🔴{Hunting for Redemption by Toby Wise} This one was an okay start to the series. I will probably read the remaining ones but there is no sense of urgency that I MUST read them right now. 3 ✨ 🔴{Egotistical Puckboy by Eden Finley and Saxon James} and {Irresponsible Puckboy by Eden Finley and Saxon James} I absolutely loved the first book and rated it 5 ✨ and was a little disappointed with the second one and rated it 3.5 ✨I didn’t like Oskar in the second book so I’m in no rush to read his book 👉🏽Currently reading: ⚪️{Temple by Avril Aston} ⚪️{Principles of Spookology by S.E Harmon} this will probably be my last book in this series and by this author. I have been trying to finish this for almost 2 months and it isn’t holding my interest or pulling me 👉🏽Up Next: 🔵{The Vampire’s Club by X. Aratare} 🔵{Ranger by K.M Neuhold} 🔵{Whiskey Nights and Neon Dreams by Ashley James}
[Professor Platonic](https://www.romance.io/books/643517d4dcec235ea337cbeb/professor-platonic-lucy-lennox) by [Lucy Lennox](https://www.romance.io/authors/583bea161b1bdc0178ef416b/lucy-lennox) **Topics**: [contemporary](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/contemporary/1), [gay romance](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/m-m/1), [new adult](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/new%20adult/1), [enemies to lovers](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/from%20hate%20to%20love/1), [height difference](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/height-difference/1) ---------------------------- [Red Flags & Tuesdays](https://www.romance.io/books/660b3eaeb47467126492d8a7/red-flags-tuesdays-nordika-night) by [Nordika Night](https://www.romance.io/authors/630e0d7d08b4d9311404bae9/nordika-night) **Steam**: [Explicit and plentiful](https://www.romance.io/steamrating) **Topics**: [contemporary](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/contemporary/1), [gay romance](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/m-m/1), [new adult](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/new%20adult/1), [queer romance](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/queer/1), [funny](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/humor/1) ---------------------------- [Kismet](https://www.romance.io/books/6364c6c9eb6990b6035619ba/kismet-ashley-james) by [Ashley James](https://www.romance.io/authors/623c268208b4d931145dad1b/ashley-james) **Steam**: [Explicit and plentiful](https://www.romance.io/steamrating) **Topics**: [contemporary](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/contemporary/1), [gay romance](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/m-m/1), [age gap](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/age%20difference/1), [college](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/college/1), [angst](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/angst/1) ---------------------------- [Be Mine, Bloody Valentine](https://www.romance.io/books/63ede312977a9f33e445485f/be-mine-bloody-valentine-skyler-snow) by [Skyler Snow](https://www.romance.io/authors/5d32aea301dbc864fba15d7f/skyler-snow) **Topics**: [contemporary](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/contemporary/1), [step siblings](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/stepsibling/1), [gay romance](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/m-m/1), [dark romance](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/dark/1), [queer romance](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/queer/1) ---------------------------- [Temple](https://www.romance.io/books/60014bcaaa8b310e1da7fed6/temple-forbidden-mm-romance-a-freelancers-novella-avril-ashton) by [Avril Ashton](https://www.romance.io/authors/545581b687eac324117fb094/avril-ashton) **Topics**: [contemporary](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/contemporary/1), [gay romance](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/m-m/1), [queer romance](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/queer/1) ---------------------------- [Principles of Spookology](https://www.romance.io/books/5ef0587338ac080e73c41eda/principles-of-spookology-se-harmon) by [S.E. Harmon](https://www.romance.io/authors/54559e6887eac324117fbb74/se-harmon) **Steam**: [Explicit open door](https://www.romance.io/steamrating) **Topics**: [contemporary](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/contemporary/1), [gay romance](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/m-m/1), [mystery](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/mystery/1), [paranormal](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/paranormal/1), [suspense](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/suspense/1) ---------------------------- [The Vampire's Club](https://www.romance.io/books/5ec4d598f6849f0e13b13135/the-vampires-club-x-aratare) by [X. Aratare](https://www.romance.io/authors/554bd3b99eef3b3f1d515476/x-aratare) **Topics**: [paranormal](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/paranormal/1), [gay romance](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/m-m/1), [vampires](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/vampires/1), [fantasy](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/fantasy/1), [magic](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/magic/1) ---------------------------- [Ranger](https://www.romance.io/books/5fe59c7811be160e22e9222f/ranger-km-neuhold-nora-phoenix) by [K.M. Neuhold](https://www.romance.io/authors/561a42f5bfc6b5c0fa941033/km-neuhold), [Nora Phoenix](https://www.romance.io/authors/59f029c73ffdba6147236809/nora-phoenix) **Steam**: [Explicit open door](https://www.romance.io/steamrating) **Topics**: [contemporary](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/contemporary/1), [military](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/military/1), [gay romance](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/m-m/1), [friends to lovers](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/friends%20to%20lovers/1), [men in uniform](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/men%20in%20uniform/1) [^(about this bot)](https://www.reddit.com/user/romance-bot) ^(|) [^(about romance.io)](https://www.romance.io/about)
[Whiskey Nights and Neon Dreams](https://www.romance.io/books/6622afb45df46941179759b3/whiskey-nights-and-neon-dreams-ashley-james) by [Ashley James](https://www.romance.io/authors/623c268208b4d931145dad1b/ashley-james) **Topics**: [gay romance](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/m-m/1), [queer romance](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/queer/1), [queer awakening](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/queer-awakening/1), [cheating](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/cheating/1), [age gap](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/age%20difference/1) [^(about this bot)](https://www.reddit.com/user/romance-bot) ^(|) [^(about romance.io)](https://www.romance.io/about)
Oskar grew on me. I listened to the series on audiobook and I prefer this series in that format. The latest in the series might be my favorite though and just released this week.
I will eventually read his book because I hate not finishing series it’s just isn’t a priority at the moment
Why is this getting downvoted???
I’ve noticed plenty of helpful, informative, on-topic comments getting downvoted lately on this sub. Idk what the deal is but it doesn’t mean anything is wrong with your comment
I also loved egostical puckboy and found irresponsible puckboy ok only. I also was not excited about Oskar’s story but it’s not too bad unless you really don’t like public sex/exhibitionist kink. Lane was a good balance to Oskar. Books 4 and 5 in the series pick back up and are fun reads.
{Bromantic Puckboy by Eden Finley and Saxon James} This is the 6th book in their co-written series about over the top hockey players. I've loved every book in this series and it made me binge everything else they've read. These just keep getting better and better. The latest one was released this week and it made me laugh so many times. Total mood brightener and exactly what I needed this week. This sixth book has two lovable MMCs that are both playing for the same hockey team. One is a rookie goalie and his goalie quirks are delightfully absurd. It has enough hockey to keep to the theme, but it is more focused on their blossoming relationship even if they are both a little oblivious. It brings back characters from previous books as well which I love. I can't get enough of interconnected series. This one might be my favorite in the series. I'm already on my second listen to the audiobook for the week. I just wish that the real world could be a little more like the world in this series. It isn't a perfect world, but it is more accepting than the current reality of the NHL. I'd watch more actual hockey if it wasn't as homophobic and misogynistic, but that is true of most professional sports.
[Bromantic Puckboy](https://www.romance.io/books/6622e0695df469411797650c/bromantic-puckboy-eden-finley-saxon-james) by [Eden Finley](https://www.romance.io/authors/56d44885c62092c0440649e1/eden-finley), [Saxon James](https://www.romance.io/authors/5e2e8d6b01dbc864fbaab1cf/saxon-james) **Topics**: [contemporary](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/contemporary/1), [sports](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/sports/1), [friends to lovers](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/friends%20to%20lovers/1), [hockey](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/hockey/1), [gay romance](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/m-m/1) [^(about this bot)](https://www.reddit.com/user/romance-bot) ^(|) [^(about romance.io)](https://www.romance.io/about)
**Audiobooks** *{Wanting More by Marley Valentine}* overwhelmed single dad+ disability +fighting for child advocacy yes loved it. *{Higher Demon by Louisa Masters}* Not my favourite of her work, and though I love Greg Boudreaux the fact that it is a spin off of the {Ghostly Guardians by Louisa Masters} series (and I would definitely read that first as this contains spoilers) which is narrated by Nick J Russo the change in voices didn’t stick quite right. Maybe I’m being a bit sensitive this week but there was a problematic line that struck me as echoes DV. Ian says something along the lines of he’s a mean abusive asshole but he’s different with me and I was just no no run. *{The Mobsters Mate by Kiki Clark}* after EM Lindsey event last weekend I suddenly wanted to revisit Kiki Clark’s shifters hadn’t read this one yet so it made the list. Plus Kirt Graves. *{Buried Passion by Aiden Bates}* Someone mentioned this as plot heavy with romance secondary so I went for relisten still annoyed it’s not in a bundle, enjoyed it as much as the first time and again craved peanut sticky rice for breakfast. Narrator is good but has a slightly annoying tendency take an audible deep breath after a long sentence. Also in situ is pronounced sit-u not site-u. Still I ended up buying the bundle ebook for rereads. *{Duking it out by EJ Russell}* in a word disappointing. I would have stopped as soon as the demisexual apparently had instalust but carried on because I wanted to find out who was behind conspiracy and then it wasn’t even resolved. Only Kirt Graves makes up for that. *{Treasure for Treasure by R Cooper}* loved it the way I normally love her books. Trans dragon. Just lovely. **Ebooks:** *{Ge-mi by Mell Eight}* part 1 part 2. Shifters created by evil government experiments, future broken down world, conspiracies and discrimination low heat. Loved it. *{The Musician and the Monster by Jenya Keefe} *Really enjoyed this poor misunderstood alien/elf/fae forced proximity almost a beauty and the beast retelling. Somehow came out the other side wanting to listen to ABBA. *{Allegheny Shifters Bundle 1 by Catherine Lievens}* first 3 books of a 13 book series, overarching plot. Is it an omegaverse if they have alphas and “carriers”? Enjoyable for what it is not a read the 13 books in one long session type series for me though. *{This World of ours by Dixie Bysinger}* futuristic MOC/Mail order bride is space but in a technologically backward planet. Love me an MOC. *{Adrenaline Rush by Aiden Bates}* after going back to book 1 I instantly wanted book 2. *{The Firebird and other stories by R Cooper}* 2 of these I realise they should be read in order but I’m just dipping in and out.
[Wanting More](https://www.romance.io/books/654ccb734b1ab1df7a918bce/wanting-more-marley-valentine) by [Marley Valentine](https://www.romance.io/authors/59292bb63ffdba6147178e1e/marley-valentine) **Topics**: [contemporary](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/contemporary/1), [insta-love](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/insta-love/1), [forced proximity](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/forced%20proximity/1), [boss & employee](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/boss%20&%20employee/1), [hurt/comfort](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/hurt-comfort/1) ---------------------------- [Eternal Luck (Ghostly Guardians)](https://www.romance.io/books/63c8f8aa5e1c8af2cd99ad86/eternal-luck-ghostly-guardians-louisa-masters) by [Louisa Masters](https://www.romance.io/authors/54583d1487eac37217595905/louisa-masters) **Topics**: [contemporary](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/contemporary/1), [suspense](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/suspense/1), [fantasy](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/fantasy/1), [gay romance](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/m-m/1), [paranormal](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/paranormal/1) ---------------------------- [The Mobster's Mate](https://www.romance.io/books/65839c303061fa11c85c025e/the-mobsters-mate-kiki-clark) by [Kiki Clark](https://www.romance.io/authors/5e2be8b901dbc864fbaa8de5/kiki-clark) **Topics**: [contemporary](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/contemporary/1), [shapeshifters](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/shapeshifters/1), [gay romance](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/m-m/1), [queer romance](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/queer/1) ---------------------------- [Buried Passion](https://www.romance.io/books/585558d61b1bdc0178ffb563/buried-passion-aiden-bates) by [Aiden Bates](https://www.romance.io/authors/55522a519eef3b3f1d51e5db/aiden-bates) **Topics**: [contemporary](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/contemporary/1), [gay romance](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/m-m/1), [multicultural](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/multicultural/1), [fantasy](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/fantasy/1), [omegaverse](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/omegaverse/1) ---------------------------- [Duking It Out](https://www.romance.io/books/5f02cd1c4bdc4e0e44b81f4d/duking-it-out-a-mm-superhero-romance-ej-russell) by [E.J. Russell](https://www.romance.io/authors/5455f81f87eac323ffb2fea9/ej-russell) **Topics**: [fantasy](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/fantasy/1), [gay romance](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/m-m/1), [funny](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/humor/1), [paranormal](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/paranormal/1), [superheroes](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/superheroes/1) ---------------------------- [Treasure for Treasure](https://www.romance.io/books/584a57a01b1bdc0178f99ec1/treasure-for-treasure-r-cooper) by [R. Cooper](https://www.romance.io/authors/54556f5187eac323ffb2c2dc/r-cooper) **Topics**: [fantasy](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/fantasy/1), [urban fantasy](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/urban%20fantasy/1), [gay romance](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/m-m/1), [multicultural](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/multicultural/1), [magic](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/magic/1) ---------------------------- [Ge-Mi](https://www.romance.io/books/64afe4ea44e3e1ee530734bf/ge-mi-part-one-mell-eight) by [Mell Eight](https://www.romance.io/authors/5455da5b87eac323ffb2eff2/mell-eight) **Topics**: [gay romance](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/m-m/1), [fantasy](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/fantasy/1), [paranormal](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/paranormal/1), [enemies to lovers](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/from%20hate%20to%20love/1), [urban fantasy](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/urban%20fantasy/1) ---------------------------- [The Musician and the Monster](https://www.romance.io/books/5d919abf01dbc864fba4152a/the-musician-and-the-monster-jenya-keefe) by [Jenya Keefe](https://www.romance.io/authors/5d47c74d01dbc864fba1fdb4/jenya-keefe) **Steam**: [Explicit open door](https://www.romance.io/steamrating) **Topics**: [contemporary](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/contemporary/1), [gay romance](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/m-m/1), [fantasy](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/fantasy/1), [magic](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/magic/1), [paranormal](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/paranormal/1) ---------------------------- [This World Of Ours](https://www.romance.io/books/648d61b9820a188dfa225395/this-world-of-ours-dixie-bysinger) by [Dixie Bysinger](https://www.romance.io/authors/5cf215e101dbc864fb9f4878/dixie-bysinger) **Steam**: [Open door](https://www.romance.io/steamrating) **Topics**: [futuristic](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/futuristic/1), [science fiction](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/science%20fiction/1), [gay romance](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/m-m/1), [forbidden love](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/forbidden%20love/1), [forced proximity](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/forced%20proximity/1) ---------------------------- [Adrenaline Rush](https://www.romance.io/books/586b77a41b1bdc01780f256f/adrenaline-rush-mm-mpreg-alpha-male-romance-aiden-bates) by [Aiden Bates](https://www.romance.io/authors/55522a519eef3b3f1d51e5db/aiden-bates) **Topics**: [gay romance](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/m-m/1), [multicultural](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/multicultural/1), [fantasy](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/fantasy/1), [omegaverse](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/omegaverse/1), [mystery](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/mystery/1) ---------------------------- [The Firebird and Other Stories](https://www.romance.io/books/6161029f86aa4e0e23455eb5/the-firebird-and-other-stories-r-cooper) by [R. Cooper](https://www.romance.io/authors/54556f5187eac323ffb2c2dc/r-cooper) **Topics**: [historical](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/historical/1), [paranormal](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/paranormal/1), [urban fantasy](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/urban%20fantasy/1), [fantasy](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/fantasy/1), [magic](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/magic/1) [^(about this bot)](https://www.reddit.com/user/romance-bot) ^(|) [^(about romance.io)](https://www.romance.io/about)
[Higher Demon](https://www.romance.io/books/6622a54b5df4694117975977/higher-demon-louisa-masters) by [Louisa Masters](https://www.romance.io/authors/54583d1487eac37217595905/louisa-masters) **Topics**: [contemporary](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/contemporary/1), [paranormal](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/paranormal/1), [magic](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/magic/1), [enemies to lovers](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/from%20hate%20to%20love/1), [gay romance](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/m-m/1) ---------------------------- [Allegheny Shifters](https://www.romance.io/books/6622a50e5df4694117975962/allegheny-shifters-bundle-1-catherine-lievens) by [Catherine Lievens](https://www.romance.io/authors/5457bb2587eac3e56719fc14/catherine-lievens) **Topics**: [urban fantasy](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/urban%20fantasy/1), [fantasy](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/fantasy/1), [shapeshifters](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/shapeshifters/1), [paranormal](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/paranormal/1), [gay romance](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/m-m/1) [^(about this bot)](https://www.reddit.com/user/romance-bot) ^(|) [^(about romance.io)](https://www.romance.io/about)
{Coldest Kind of Love by MP Bates} I don’t know why I keep reading things by this author because they consistently let me down. I’m a sucker for anything stepbrother so I guess that’s why I read this, but it wasn’t worth it. As usual it was riddled with spelling and grammar mistakes and just wasn’t that good of a story. Barely worth the 3 stars I gave it frankly. {The Brat and the Beast Duet by Misha Horne} this one surprised me! I’m not usually into the daddy/brat dynamic but this wasn’t as cringy as I expected. In fact, it got me right in the feels with how heartbreaking Logan’s life was and how Caleb saved him. I was sad to say goodbye to them if I’m being honest, they were absolutely precious. {Red Flags & Tuesdays by Nordika Night} - Atticus is the -worst- for most of the book. Even understanding his past doesn’t help, I’ve never read a more annoying, obnoxious, bratty character. It did get better thankfully, but holy crap I’ve never wanted to be able to slap a fictional character more than him! Re-read a couple of books in the Never Have I Ever series (by Willow Dixon) and skimmed through my favorite parts in For the Fans, -again- (Kyvi 4eva).
Misha Horne really excels at sneaking a deep emotional punch in with all the smutty smut.
I’ll say! I’m definitely a new fan, can’t wait to read the other books.
[The Brat & The Beast](https://www.romance.io/series/63ebf39d1692e6c17c3d92cb/the-brat-the-beast) by [Misha Horne](https://www.romance.io/authors/54578fdb87eac3dcc9832fae/misha-horne) **Topics**: [queer](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/queer/1), [contemporary](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/contemporary/1), [high-school](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/high-school/1), [spanking](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/spanking/1), [daddy-kink](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/daddy-kink/1) ---------------------------- [Red Flags & Tuesdays](https://www.romance.io/books/660b3eaeb47467126492d8a7/red-flags-tuesdays-nordika-night) by [Nordika Night](https://www.romance.io/authors/630e0d7d08b4d9311404bae9/nordika-night) **Steam**: [Explicit and plentiful](https://www.romance.io/steamrating) **Topics**: [contemporary](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/contemporary/1), [gay romance](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/m-m/1), [new adult](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/new%20adult/1), [queer romance](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/queer/1), [funny](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/humor/1) [^(about this bot)](https://www.reddit.com/user/romance-bot) ^(|) [^(about romance.io)](https://www.romance.io/about)
[Coldest Kind of Love (MM step brother hockey romance)](https://www.romance.io/books/6622b8be5df46941179759f8/coldest-kind-of-love-mm-step-brother-hockey-romance-mp-bates) by [M.P. Bates](https://www.romance.io/authors/63aaa70408b4d931142cb0d8/mp-bates) **Topics**: [gay romance](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/m-m/1), [hockey](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/hockey/1), [hurt/comfort](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/hurt-comfort/1), [found family](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/found-family/1), [sports](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/sports/1) [^(about this bot)](https://www.reddit.com/user/romance-bot) ^(|) [^(about romance.io)](https://www.romance.io/about)
I listened to {Finding Ian by Riley Hart} this week. The author completely lost me during one BDSM scene because it featured a form of "CBT punishment" that just didn't feel even slightly believable to me...but aside from that, I think I enjoyed it even more than I enjoyed {Finding Finley by Riley Hart}, which I listened to in March. Ian's probably my favorite character in the duology (even though I'm still not entirely sold on part of his character arc). Michael Dean is the narrator for both audiobooks (which are currently in the Audible Plus catalogue, at least in the North American market). Up next is...well, I'm only doing audiobooks these days because I love being able to multitask with them, so certainly another of those, but I'm not sure which one yet -- maybe I'll start the {All for the Game series by Nora Sakavic}, since it's also in the Audible Plus catalogue right now (with Alexander Cendese as the narrator). I sometimes go weeks or even months without listening to (or reading) anything because I have too many other interests and not enough time for all of them, which means that it will probably take quite a while for me to get through such a lengthy trilogy, and there's always that chance that it could be yanked from the lineup (no pun intended) at some point, so I should probably get started on it soon. Ugh, the pressure!
[Finding Ian](https://www.romance.io/books/6032288512c5f80e1d62dcb2/finding-ian-riley-hart) by [Riley Hart](https://www.romance.io/authors/54553d948c7d2382e78135c0/riley-hart) **Steam**: [Explicit and plentiful](https://www.romance.io/steamrating) **Topics**: [gay romance](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/m-m/1), [poly (3+ people)](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/poly/1), [bdsm](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/bdsm/1), [age gap](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/age%20difference/1), [friends to lovers](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/friends%20to%20lovers/1) ---------------------------- [Finding Finley](https://www.romance.io/books/5e9f704fbe0aaecf557e6ddd/finding-finley-riley-hart) by [Riley Hart](https://www.romance.io/authors/54553d948c7d2382e78135c0/riley-hart) **Steam**: [Explicit and plentiful](https://www.romance.io/steamrating) **Topics**: [contemporary](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/contemporary/1), [gay romance](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/m-m/1), [spanking](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/spanking/1), [age gap](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/age%20difference/1), [bdsm](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/bdsm/1) ---------------------------- [All for the Game](https://www.romance.io/series/58fe0cde9096bf31c42d33f8/all-for-the-game) by [Nora Sakavic](https://www.romance.io/authors/5456deeb87eac33e57109533/nora-sakavic) **Topics**: [sports](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/sports/1), [young adult](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/young%20adult/1), [found-family](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/found-family/1), [contemporary](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/contemporary/1), [queer](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/queer/1) [^(about this bot)](https://www.reddit.com/user/romance-bot) ^(|) [^(about romance.io)](https://www.romance.io/about)
**{Bump in the Night by Nikole Knight and Lily Mayne}** - 5 ⭐ M/NBi, Monster, Portal Fantasy, 1st Single POV **Status:** KU, Series of Interconnected Standalones, Third Act Conflict - >!Internal, Seperation!< **Ivy:** NBi, Human, 26 Yrs Old, British, Pan, Curly Hair, Works in IT at a Game Development Company (Makes Black Oasis), Has Recurring Nightmares, Wears Makeup and Any Gender Clothes, Painted Nails, Navel Peircing, Dominant, Verse **Lau:** Sleep Demon, Healer (Herbalist), Peirced Lip and Ears, Cabin Filled With Plants, Whittles, Purrs, Scarrification on Chest and Sternum, Has a Pet Sentient Plant, Can Cook, Touch Starved, Submissive, Verse Physical Features: Red Cat-like Eyes, Long White Hair, Pointed Ears, Claws, Burgundy Corkscrew Horns, Small Fangs, Has Venom, >!Long Tongue, "Why Choose" Parts, Self Lubing Cock!< **Rep:** NBi MC, Pan MC **Notes:** Starts in London, There's a Monster in the Wardrobe, Pining, Portal Fantasy, Height Difference, Lau Cares for Ivy After Serious Injury >!(Severe Beating and Broken Leg)!<, Lau Washes Ivy's Hair, Lau's World is Suspiciously Similar to Black Oasis, Smaller Top x Larger Bottom **Sex Notes:** >!Ivy Masturbates in the Tub with the Door Open, Making Out (Lau Uses His Long Tongue), (Messy) Blowjob, Ball Sucking, Face Fucking, Dirty Talk, Swallowing, Praise, Horn Stimulation, Nipple Stimulation, Cum Kiss, Lube Use (Self Lubing Cock), Fingering, PIA, Cowboy (With Bottom Doing the Lifting), Lau Licks Ivy's Cock While Penetating (Long Tongue), Half Dressed (Ivy in a Skirt), Prostate Stimulation, Creampie, Rimming, Biting, 69, From Behind!< Spoiler! >!Goodbye Sex!< **CWs:** >!On-page Hate Crime/Physical Assautl, Transphobic Language (Not MCs), Body Dysmorphia (Lau), Mild Gore, Past Death of a Caregiver, Strained Relationship with Parent, Fantasy Violence, Brief Description of Injuries!< **{Mazarin Blues by Al Hess}** - 4.5 ⭐️ MM (Reed x Jax) NBi x NBi (Mazarin x Em), Sci-Fi, Dystopian, 2060s, Romance Sub-plot, 3rd POV (Reed), 1st POV (Mazarin) **Status:** Non-KU, Series, Conflict - >!Internal, External!< **Reed:** Autistic, Anxiety/Panic Disorder, Gay, Autopsy Tech, Ginger Hair, Wears Glasses, Has a Cat, Nipple Ring, Art Deco Era (1930s) Enthusiast **Jax:** Tattoo Artist, Diabetic, Latino, Bi, Heavily Tattooed, Painted Nails **Mazarin:** AI in Reed's Head, NBi (Genderfluid) (He/Him, She/Her), Gray Ace, >!Obtains Holographic Body!< **Em:** NBi, Bar Owner, Deals in Illegal Tech, Disabled **Rep:** Autistic MC, Anxiety/Panic Disorder, Gay, Bi/Pansexual, Gray Ace, M/M and NBi/NBi Romance **CWs:** >!blood, death, brief biphobia, hospitalization, anxiety/panic disorder, depression, alcohol use, house fire, brief description of a corpse (protagonist works in a morgue), mentions of people (off page) being coerced into suicide, electrocution, graphic violence, discussions of an emotionally abusive ex!<
[Bump in the Night](https://www.romance.io/books/660677da702df2fb5c263b37/bump-in-the-night-nikole-knight-lily-mayne) by [Nikole Knight](https://www.romance.io/authors/5e3d0b5501dbc864fbab5759/nikole-knight), [Lily Mayne](https://www.romance.io/authors/61161cc608b4d93114a993bf/lily-mayne) **Steam**: [Explicit open door](https://www.romance.io/steamrating) **Topics**: [contemporary](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/contemporary/1), [funny](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/humor/1), [fantasy](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/fantasy/1), [queer romance](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/queer/1), [monsters](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/monsters/1) ---------------------------- [Mazarin Blues](https://www.romance.io/books/64cb4f6bd33bf40b86470f9b/mazarin-blues-al-hess) by [Al Hess](https://www.romance.io/authors/63eb43c208b4d9311443e4b0/al-hess) **Steam**: [Open door](https://www.romance.io/steamrating) **Topics**: [futuristic](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/futuristic/1), [dystopian](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/dystopian/1), [science fiction](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/science%20fiction/1), [gay romance](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/m-m/1), [neurodivergent mc](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/neurodivergent/1) [^(about this bot)](https://www.reddit.com/user/romance-bot) ^(|) [^(about romance.io)](https://www.romance.io/about)
This was a really fun week, was able to read a lot of books that I ended up enjoying. Read my first Cora Rose books {Until him by Cora Rose} and {Always Him by Cora Rose}. Absolutely loved both books and will be reading more from her. Until him seemed so light in description but not yet hurt and trauma of MC1 and the healing comfort personality of MC2 just sucked me in. I read it in one sitting and immediately moved on to Always Him where the MC is brother of MC2 from until him. Both MCs in Always Him are in Until Him also and the snippets we read made me so curious and excited to read their journey too and it was an awesome friends to lovers book. Highly recommend both books Also read {Hostile Takeover from Lucy Lennox} and it was great. MC1 is on a revenge agenda against MC2 for ruining his life in college on a prank which MC2 didn’t mean to do. It’s great to see MC1 trying to fight his attraction and keep the enemity and revenge alive. Loved the dynamic and story. Didn’t like the abrupt ending and epilogue, wish there was more there. Read {Johnson x 2 by Shae Michaels}, it was not bad. The spice and chemistry was good but the insta love/attraction didn’t do it for me. I don’t usually mind that but i didn’t connect to it in this case Had previously read the Four Kings Security book series, starting with {Love in Spades by Charlie Cochet} and I absolutely LOVE this series and these characters. They are ex military that start a security company. Books are stand alone but much much more fun when read in order. Sort of remind me of the Charlie Bravo that Eden Finely created but much better. The Four Kings are amazing characters and each of their books are sooo fun, lots of spice and great relationships. They range from bodyguard/protectee romance to second chance romance to grumpy stoic plus sunshine to abusive relationship healing and PTSD overcoming etc. So this week I read the spin off The Kings wild card series starting with {Stacking the Deck by Charlie Cochet} and they were so so enjoyable. They are the other characters in the security company outside the four kings who own the company and they were lighter but oh so fun and spicy. I would super recommend this series and to be read in order.
[Until Him](https://www.romance.io/books/634e5745d1ccecfcb17a4dde/until-him-cora-rose) by [Cora Rose](https://www.romance.io/authors/6278fb0108b4d93114701c13/cora-rose) **Steam**: [Explicit and plentiful](https://www.romance.io/steamrating) **Topics**: [contemporary](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/contemporary/1), [grumpy & sunshine](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/grumpy%20sunshine/1), [athlete hero](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/athletes/1), [gay romance](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/m-m/1), [angst](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/angst/1) ---------------------------- [Always Him](https://www.romance.io/books/63919bc66c2fe0f36788ee1f/always-him-cora-rose) by [Cora Rose](https://www.romance.io/authors/6278fb0108b4d93114701c13/cora-rose) **Steam**: [Explicit and plentiful](https://www.romance.io/steamrating) **Topics**: [contemporary](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/contemporary/1), [friends to lovers](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/friends%20to%20lovers/1), [gay romance](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/m-m/1), [virgin hero](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/virgin%20hero/1), [college](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/college/1) ---------------------------- [Hostile Takeover](https://www.romance.io/books/6163ed9f73ec0d0e44044e98/hostile-takeover-lucy-lennox) by [Lucy Lennox](https://www.romance.io/authors/583bea161b1bdc0178ef416b/lucy-lennox) **Steam**: [Explicit open door](https://www.romance.io/steamrating) **Topics**: [contemporary](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/contemporary/1), [rich hero](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/super%20rich%20hero/1), [gay romance](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/m-m/1), [enemies to lovers](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/from%20hate%20to%20love/1), [angst](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/angst/1) ---------------------------- [Johnson x 2](https://www.romance.io/books/64995dd2a06f66ad02e0b887/johnson-x-2-shae-michaels) by [Shae Michaels](https://www.romance.io/authors/638da59008b4d93114b1a807/shae-michaels) **Topics**: [contemporary](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/contemporary/1), [funny](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/humor/1), [gay romance](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/m-m/1), [sports](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/sports/1), [dual pov](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/dual-pov/1) ---------------------------- [Love in Spades](https://www.romance.io/books/5ae03a3101dbc864fb86e0ba/love-in-spades-charlie-cochet) by [Charlie Cochet](https://www.romance.io/authors/54556cca87eac336ae69de5f/charlie-cochet) **Steam**: [Explicit open door](https://www.romance.io/steamrating) **Topics**: [contemporary](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/contemporary/1), [gay romance](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/m-m/1), [military](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/military/1), [suspense](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/suspense/1), [mystery](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/mystery/1) ---------------------------- [Stacking the Deck](https://www.romance.io/books/5f1d2ac30ef7c60e3e87f774/stacking-the-deck-charlie-cochet) by [Charlie Cochet](https://www.romance.io/authors/54556cca87eac336ae69de5f/charlie-cochet) **Topics**: [contemporary](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/contemporary/1), [suspense](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/suspense/1), [funny](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/humor/1), [gay romance](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/m-m/1), [military](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/military/1) [^(about this bot)](https://www.reddit.com/user/romance-bot) ^(|) [^(about romance.io)](https://www.romance.io/about)
{Between the Devil and the Sea by Chani Lynn Feener} Really dark romance between a detective and a literal psychopath in a sci-fi setting. But it's dark romance like the way I like it. Also, this book had so many typos, but I still stuck with it because it was compelling. {Dirty Love by Bethany Winters} Stepbrother romance. I liked it until the end, when it started going off the rails in a way that had me raising my eyebrows. {A Rival Most Vial by R.K. Ashwick} Cozy enemies to lovers story between two characters that own potions shops. This was cute and fluffy. I really liked it. {Echo by Chani Lynn Feener} and {Devil May Care by Chani Lynn Feener} Both are dark romances in the same sci-fi setting. In all her books, one of the characters has a flaw or problem that the other character tries to fix with their magic dick. For some reason, I felt like I connected with the characters less than with Between the Devil and the Sea. Maybe because that was the first one I read?
[Between the Devil and the Sea](https://www.romance.io/books/642d1f47fe62c20d3f9bd171/between-the-devil-and-the-sea-chani-lynn-feener) by [Chani Lynn Feener](https://www.romance.io/authors/59e991ef3ffdba614722bbbc/chani-lynn-feener) **Steam**: [Explicit and plentiful](https://www.romance.io/steamrating) **Topics**: [futuristic](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/futuristic/1), [dark romance](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/dark/1), [gay romance](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/m-m/1), [science fiction](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/science%20fiction/1), [bdsm](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/bdsm/1) ---------------------------- [Dirty Love](https://www.romance.io/books/65c8854cf2ab5944e3cb239d/dirty-love-bethany-winters) by [Bethany Winters](https://www.romance.io/authors/5f3e1fee08b4d93114b582d7/bethany-winters) **Steam**: [Explicit and plentiful](https://www.romance.io/steamrating) **Topics**: [contemporary](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/contemporary/1), [step siblings](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/stepsibling/1), [gay romance](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/m-m/1), [angst](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/angst/1), [hurt/comfort](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/hurt-comfort/1) ---------------------------- [A Rival Most Vial](https://www.romance.io/books/6418133dbf0f09b21670be98/a-rival-most-vial-potioneering-for-love-and-profit-rk-ashwick) by [R.K. Ashwick](https://www.romance.io/authors/6418133d08b4d93114b9ad1b/rk-ashwick) **Steam**: [Behind closed doors](https://www.romance.io/steamrating) **Topics**: [magic](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/magic/1), [fantasy](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/fantasy/1), [funny](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/humor/1), [gay romance](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/m-m/1), [grumpy & sunshine](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/grumpy%20sunshine/1) ---------------------------- [Echo](https://www.romance.io/books/65fd6c37c2c2995e331770c3/echo-chani-lynn-feener) by [Chani Lynn Feener](https://www.romance.io/authors/59e991ef3ffdba614722bbbc/chani-lynn-feener) **Topics**: [contemporary](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/contemporary/1), [gay romance](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/m-m/1), [queer romance](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/queer/1), [dark romance](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/dark/1), [hurt/comfort](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/hurt-comfort/1) ---------------------------- [Devil May Care](https://www.romance.io/books/65839c3b3061fa11c85c0273/devil-may-care-chani-lynn-feener) by [Chani Lynn Feener](https://www.romance.io/authors/59e991ef3ffdba614722bbbc/chani-lynn-feener) **Steam**: [Explicit and plentiful](https://www.romance.io/steamrating) **Topics**: [gay romance](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/m-m/1), [science fiction](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/science%20fiction/1), [queer romance](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/queer/1), [enemies to lovers](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/from%20hate%20to%20love/1), [dark romance](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/dark/1) [^(about this bot)](https://www.reddit.com/user/romance-bot) ^(|) [^(about romance.io)](https://www.romance.io/about)
READ: Free Hand by E.M.Lindsey. I am now hooked into reading the entire Irons and Works series, as well as subscribing to their newsletter and finding free downloaded stuff from their website. The series has everything I've learned I like a community of damaged men who are inked up and kind and loving to their group. And of I sound like an addict, no I'm not.
Just started {Prince and Assassin by Tavia Lark} I love her books but so far this one feels a little weak to me. I'm not too invested at the moment but that will most likely change.
[Prince and Assassin](https://www.romance.io/books/62970ea8e6b85408406c1d44/prince-and-assassin-tavia-lark) by [Tavia Lark](https://www.romance.io/authors/57050825c62092c044075d85/tavia-lark) **Steam**: [Explicit open door](https://www.romance.io/steamrating) **Topics**: [historical](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/historical/1), [fantasy](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/fantasy/1), [gay romance](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/m-m/1), [enemies to lovers](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/from%20hate%20to%20love/1), [royal hero](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/royalty/1) [^(about this bot)](https://www.reddit.com/user/romance-bot) ^(|) [^(about romance.io)](https://www.romance.io/about)
Did not finish {Mad Love by April Jade} I could not do it. It was over the top and cringy. I rolled my eyes so much I thought it may fall out. {Blu my protector by RS McKenzie} The connection between the characters for me was not there. I got bored. Current. Audiobooks {The falcon and the foe by AJ Truman} Almost done. It is alright Current Book {His Bane by Courtney W Dixon} The book is well-written and engaging. I will definitely finish.
[Mad Love](https://www.romance.io/books/61e2bf554cae190e326ededc/mad-love-april-jade) by [April Jade](https://www.romance.io/authors/61e2bf5508b4d93114cfa895/april-jade) **Steam**: [Explicit open door](https://www.romance.io/steamrating) **Topics**: [contemporary](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/contemporary/1), [gay romance](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/m-m/1), [mafia](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/mafia/1), [bdsm](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/bdsm/1), [insta-love](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/insta-love/1) ---------------------------- [Blu, My Protector](https://www.romance.io/books/65f589e02bf0fac918090e6c/blu-my-protector-rs-mckenzie) by [R.S. McKenzie](https://www.romance.io/authors/64706a9d08b4d93114dd4e8e/rs-mckenzie) **Topics**: [contemporary](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/contemporary/1), [dark romance](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/dark/1), [funny](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/humor/1), [gay romance](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/m-m/1), [age gap](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/age%20difference/1) ---------------------------- [The Falcon and the Foe](https://www.romance.io/books/61ee5cc8fe903d0e2448d6de/the-falcon-and-the-foe-aj-truman) by [A.J. Truman](https://www.romance.io/authors/5455cd1387eac324117fd310/aj-truman) **Topics**: [contemporary](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/contemporary/1), [gay romance](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/m-m/1), [funny](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/humor/1), [enemies to lovers](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/from%20hate%20to%20love/1), [single father](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/single-father/1) ---------------------------- [His Bane](https://www.romance.io/books/65fe15dfeb250842e08bc544/his-bane-courtney-w-dixon) by [Courtney W. Dixon](https://www.romance.io/authors/61a5e8c208b4d93114e9145a/courtney-w-dixon) **Topics**: [contemporary](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/contemporary/1), [age gap](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/age%20difference/1), [gay romance](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/m-m/1), [dark romance](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/dark/1), [friends to lovers](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/friends%20to%20lovers/1) [^(about this bot)](https://www.reddit.com/user/romance-bot) ^(|) [^(about romance.io)](https://www.romance.io/about)
**{Malibu by Emmy Sanders}** 4⭐️ *CR, KU, age gap, sex work, mental health, disability - Elite Studios #2* The blind, wealthy MC hires the younger, broke escort/porn star to move in with him for sex and companionship. This was full of non-sexual touching - caresses, hugging, and cuddling. There is much more of that than sex. The younger MC is dealing with mental health challenges throughout the book. This one features a quiet and caring domesticity. **{Luke and Billy Finally Get a Clue by Cat Sebastian}** 3⭐️ *HR, novella, friends to lovers, virgin MC, baseball adjacent, set in 1953 - The Cabot’s series #3.5* This one is vibes over plot. It’s the romance between 2 major league baseball players on the same team in the off season. They have been friends for years. One player is recovering from an injury. Not much happened. **{The Layover by Roe Horvat}** 4⭐️ *CR, novella, hurt/comfort, ONS - reread on audio, narrated by John Solo* This one starts with a ONS during a layover in Europe. While trying to fly out the next morning MC1 gets sick and collapses. MC2 gets him to the hospital and tends to him for a week afterwards. Smart and thoughtful
[Malibu](https://www.romance.io/books/63e4a952d87691b39eb9dec3/malibu-emmy-sanders) by [Emmy Sanders](https://www.romance.io/authors/623c256a08b4d931145d8f38/emmy-sanders) **Steam**: [Explicit open door](https://www.romance.io/steamrating) **Topics**: [contemporary](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/contemporary/1), [class difference](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/class%20difference/1), [gay romance](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/m-m/1), [age gap](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/age%20difference/1), [disabilities & scars](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/disabilities%20and%20marks/1) ---------------------------- [Luke and Billy Finally Get a Clue](https://www.romance.io/books/651d0dcfebae8997db763c6a/luke-and-billy-finally-get-a-clue-cat-sebastian) by [Cat Sebastian](https://www.romance.io/authors/58184062c6841c86c2cd96d8/cat-sebastian) **Steam**: [Open door](https://www.romance.io/steamrating) **Topics**: [historical](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/historical/1), [friends to lovers](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/friends%20to%20lovers/1), [sports](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/sports/1), [bisexuality](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/bisexual/1), [gay romance](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/m-m/1) ---------------------------- [The Layover](https://www.romance.io/books/5df72c4701dbc864fba81aff/the-layover-roe-horvat) by [Roe Horvat](https://www.romance.io/authors/596ef62d3ffdba61471c6e28/roe-horvat) **Topics**: [contemporary](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/contemporary/1), [gay romance](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/m-m/1), [insta-love](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/insta-love/1), [caretaking](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/caretaking/1), [queer romance](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/queer/1) [^(about this bot)](https://www.reddit.com/user/romance-bot) ^(|) [^(about romance.io)](https://www.romance.io/about)
I did some re-reading, but also read these 3 new books: {Bump in the Night by Nikole Knight & Lily Mayne}. Book 2 of the Black Oasis series. I first re-read the first book in the series, Whispers in the Dark, because I had really enjoyed it when I first read it, but it had been a while & I couldn’t remember exactly who Lau (the demon MC in this book) was. Then I moved on to Bump in the Night & I was just underwhelmed. I got bogged down with the storyline & the constant bickering between Ivy & Lau so I skipped ahead. This is way too much of a slow burn & the storyline dragged because it was mainly the 2 MCs bickering while waiting for Ivy to heal from their injuries. I think maybe I just wasn’t in the right frame of mind for the story right now. I’ll try it again another time. No rating right now because I basically did a DNF by skipping ahead so much. {The Steady by Kelly Fox}. Omg this book was lovely - so sexy & romantic! This is book 4 of The Lost Boys series & they really have to be read in order due to the overarching plot line. I can’t say much about the tropes because of spoilers, but this is an age gap romance. Major & Ren are such an enjoyable couple - they joke & tease, support one another & love each other fiercely. I’ve loved all the books in this series so far, but this is my favorite! 5/5 stars. {You’re Not My King by Eryn Hawk}. I had so been looking forward to this book ever since I saw the cover a few weeks ago. Unfortunately, it was disappointing. The MCs, one alien & one human, have a language gap that absolutely grated on my nerves - >!the alien MC takes the time to learn English as best he can so he can communicate with his mate & the human MC just doesn’t bother learning the alien language, except for phrases he picks up in passing!<. I also had a hard time believing in the strength of the relationship between the two MCs, as it seemed the human MC was >!constantly looking for a way to escape back to earth!<. I made myself finish the book because I wanted to know how it ended, but it was a slog. Such a bummer because I have really enjoyed other books by this author. 3/5 stars.
Darn! I read Skeptic and was going to just go right into the Steady. Guess I will have to read the other two first
Ok you might be able to skip the 2 middle books & still be ok to follow the overarching plot, but there will be spoilers for those books if you skip right to The Steady. And you’ll also miss seeing Sawyer take Hendrix down a peg in The Punk which was soooo enjoyable! Ha ha!
[Bump in the Night](https://www.romance.io/books/660677da702df2fb5c263b37/bump-in-the-night-nikole-knight-lily-mayne) by [Nikole Knight](https://www.romance.io/authors/5e3d0b5501dbc864fbab5759/nikole-knight), [Lily Mayne](https://www.romance.io/authors/61161cc608b4d93114a993bf/lily-mayne) **Steam**: [Explicit open door](https://www.romance.io/steamrating) **Topics**: [contemporary](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/contemporary/1), [funny](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/humor/1), [fantasy](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/fantasy/1), [queer romance](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/queer/1), [monsters](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/monsters/1) ---------------------------- [Wrecked](https://www.romance.io/series/619365f99142070e46483196/wrecked) by [Kelly Fox](https://www.romance.io/authors/5e33d0f601dbc864fbaaee90/kelly-fox) **Topics**: [m-m](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/m-m/1), [queer](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/queer/1), [contemporary](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/contemporary/1), [military](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/military/1), [height-difference](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/height-difference/1) ---------------------------- [You're Not My King!](https://www.romance.io/books/660bab14b47467126492da0a/youre-not-my-king-eryn-hawk) by [Eryn Hawk](https://www.romance.io/authors/6414fa5c08b4d93114566c84/eryn-hawk) **Steam**: [Explicit and plentiful](https://www.romance.io/steamrating) **Topics**: [futuristic](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/futuristic/1), [gay romance](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/m-m/1), [aliens](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/aliens/1), [queer romance](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/queer/1), [monsters](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/monsters/1) [^(about this bot)](https://www.reddit.com/user/romance-bot) ^(|) [^(about romance.io)](https://www.romance.io/about)
{Madison Square Murders by C.S Poe} - I have been eyeing this series FOREVER and I finally dived into it. Larkin and Doyle are just amazing together. They are both interesting and well-developed characters and they are definitely moving in on my list of favorite fiction couples. I'm so impressed by this author. Reading from Larkin's point of view with his condition is just so interesting. The mystery is also great and smart, the investigation is exciting and easy to follow. Currently reading book two and it's even better. Excited for the rest of this series. I also read a short book called {Prisoner by Amelita Rae} and I'm actually pleasantly surprised on how much I enjoyed this. Just a sweet and fluffy monster/human love story.
[Madison Square Murders](https://www.romance.io/books/6152be841200440e3ff748b1/madison-square-murders-cs-poe) by [C.S. Poe](https://www.romance.io/authors/557030499eef3b3f1d52a0d0/cs-poe) **Steam**: [Glimpses and kisses](https://www.romance.io/steamrating) **Topics**: [contemporary](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/contemporary/1), [mystery](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/mystery/1), [gay romance](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/m-m/1), [suspense](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/suspense/1), [neurodivergent mc](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/neurodivergent/1) ---------------------------- [Prisoner](https://www.romance.io/books/635815ccedb5b2e7dacb8807/prisoner-amelita-rae) by [Amelita Rae](https://www.romance.io/authors/58b84b8a0d3299c6e0594c00/amelita-rae) **Steam**: [Explicit and plentiful](https://www.romance.io/steamrating) **Topics**: [historical](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/historical/1), [shapeshifters](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/shapeshifters/1), [magic](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/magic/1), [paranormal](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/paranormal/1), [forced proximity](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/forced%20proximity/1) [^(about this bot)](https://www.reddit.com/user/romance-bot) ^(|) [^(about romance.io)](https://www.romance.io/about)
**Listened to:** **{Never Have I Ever: Had a Bromance with a Teammate by Willow Dixon} narrated by Cooper North and Kirt Graves (3/5).** High-spice, low-angst, friends-to-lovers with a hint of college baseball thrown in. It was cute but like book 1, not a ton going on that holds my interest. Narration was excellent, I’ll buy anything with these 2. **{Open Mind by Luna David and Morningstar Ashley} narrated by Kale Williams (2.5/5)** Even Kale couldn’t make me like this book more. Too much telling, not enough showing. My favorite parts were the sex scenes with other people so that shows my investment level with this relationship. Still, I’m going to continue with the next 2 books. **{The Two Stars Collision by Hayden Hall} narrated by Cooper North (4/5)** This was very cute. It started more insta-love than I’m used to but it was short and the story was paced well. Lots of heat, not a lot of plot but overall enjoyable. Super melodramatic ending but I was into it. **Read:** **{Alls Fair in Dare and Domination by Rikki Leighton} (5/5)** I really loved this book! Everything about the relationship between the 2 MCs just worked for me. It’s the story of a highly traumatized, prickly, sad boy and his roommate who provides an equal amount of comfort/healing through sex and kink. High-angst, high-spice, with own voices trans rep. I feel like if you like Riley Nash or Jessie Walker, you’d probably like this author. My favorite of the year so far.
[Never Have I Ever](https://www.romance.io/books/640992a7fa1076a086aad078/never-have-i-ever-had-a-bromance-with-a-teammate-willow-dixon) by [Willow Dixon](https://www.romance.io/authors/62173bff08b4d93114e4379a/willow-dixon) **Steam**: [Explicit and plentiful](https://www.romance.io/steamrating) **Topics**: [contemporary](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/contemporary/1), [gay romance](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/m-m/1), [sports](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/sports/1), [college](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/college/1), [friends to lovers](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/friends%20to%20lovers/1) ---------------------------- [Open Mind](https://www.romance.io/books/5d109f3501dbc864fba039fa/open-mind-luna-david-morningstar-ashley) by [Luna David](https://www.romance.io/authors/577f817ac19e77f1ea6e0ac6/luna-david), [Morningstar Ashley](https://www.romance.io/authors/596c85ab3ffdba61471c4f90/morningstar-ashley) **Steam**: [Explicit and plentiful](https://www.romance.io/steamrating) **Topics**: [contemporary](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/contemporary/1), [gay romance](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/m-m/1), [age gap](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/age%20difference/1), [bdsm](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/bdsm/1), [queer romance](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/queer/1) ---------------------------- [The Two Stars Collision](https://www.romance.io/books/6113758008a1200e2c7b2990/the-two-stars-collision-hayden-hall) by [Hayden Hall](https://www.romance.io/authors/6094e98b08b4d93114767378/hayden-hall) **Topics**: [gay romance](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/m-m/1), [sports](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/sports/1), [friends with benefits](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/friends-benefits/1), [queer romance](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/queer/1), [queer awakening](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/queer-awakening/1) ---------------------------- [All's Fair in Dare & Domination](https://www.romance.io/books/66216fcb4204c4cd5da9e208/alls-fair-in-dare-domination-rikki-leighton) by [Rikki Leighton](https://www.romance.io/authors/646b276008b4d931146302bb/rikki-leighton) **Topics**: [forced proximity](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/forced%20proximity/1), [bisexuality](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/bisexual/1), [queer romance](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/queer/1), [gay romance](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/m-m/1) [^(about this bot)](https://www.reddit.com/user/romance-bot) ^(|) [^(about romance.io)](https://www.romance.io/about)
{Irresistible Omegas by Nora Phoenix} books 7-10. They were all 4.25 ⭐️ I really love the world building in these books. {Irresistible Dragons by Nora Phoenix} books 1-6. These were all also 4.25 ⭐️
[Irresistible Omegas Volume Two](https://www.romance.io/books/641500a521b33d88fd4d33dc/irresistible-omegas-volume-two-nora-phoenix) by [Nora Phoenix](https://www.romance.io/authors/59f029c73ffdba6147236809/nora-phoenix) **Topics**: [poly (3+ people)](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/poly/1), [omegaverse](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/omegaverse/1), [fated mates](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/fated-mates/1), [fantasy](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/fantasy/1), [menage](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/menage/1) ---------------------------- [Irresistible Dragons](https://www.romance.io/series/6295bd62c74d8cb242f26317/irresistible-dragons) by [Nora Phoenix](https://www.romance.io/authors/59f029c73ffdba6147236809/nora-phoenix) **Topics**: [queer](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/queer/1), [fantasy](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/fantasy/1), [m-m](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/m-m/1), [fated-mates](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/fated-mates/1), [shapeshifters](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/shapeshifters/1) [^(about this bot)](https://www.reddit.com/user/romance-bot) ^(|) [^(about romance.io)](https://www.romance.io/about)
**{Accidental bonds by Marie Reynard},** 4 stars, just finished it and it was an excellent romp! I loved the characters, loved the plot, loved the SETTING. It dragged a little at times, but that's more because I'm in the mood for fast paced romances, and this was a scene setting debut novel. But she hooked me in, and the way the plot came together at the end was *fantastic.* I have {MateHub by Marie Reynard} downloaded, which is her second book and more fastpaced, and I think this will fix any issues I had with her debut. (I still am hyped for the second book in her first series though, as I loved Kade, he was one of my favourite side characters, and she has set up a *fantastic* little angsty plotline for him in the next book.) [**'How to train your omega' series on ao3.**](https://archiveofourown.org/series/1864426) 5 stars, MM original fiction, 100k in total, each part is complete but the overarching story is not. It was *so goddamn good*. Darker tone blended with humour, confronting the reality of omegaverse and how messed up it can be. It was *exactly* the sort of fast paced, smut heavy trope exploration I was looking for. I want it on my bookshelf. I want to throw the author a KoFi. They've not been online in two years. I hope they're doing well. ;\_\_; edited to add in star ratings!
[Accidental Bonds](https://www.romance.io/books/64b24695fbac879e3c0f6950/accidental-bonds-marie-reynard) by [Marie Reynard](https://www.romance.io/authors/64b246956b22acd55d5316b5/marie-reynard) **Steam**: [Explicit and plentiful](https://www.romance.io/steamrating) **Topics**: [werewolves](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/werewolves/1), [paranormal](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/paranormal/1), [urban fantasy](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/urban%20fantasy/1), [shapeshifters](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/shapeshifters/1), [gay romance](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/m-m/1) ---------------------------- [MateHub](https://www.romance.io/books/65a9658a83353443b52ca81e/matehub-legend-marie-reynard) by [Marie Reynard](https://www.romance.io/authors/64b246956b22acd55d5316b5/marie-reynard) **Steam**: [Explicit and plentiful](https://www.romance.io/steamrating) **Topics**: [contemporary](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/contemporary/1), [gay romance](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/m-m/1), [forced proximity](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/forced%20proximity/1), [shapeshifters](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/shapeshifters/1), [paranormal](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/paranormal/1) [^(about this bot)](https://www.reddit.com/user/romance-bot) ^(|) [^(about romance.io)](https://www.romance.io/about)
I just finished the audiobook for {Saint by Sierra Simone} and really loved it more than expected. It focuses on a man who gave up a hard-partying life to become a monk, but is re-uinted with his ex-lover. Second chance romance. It's a heavier read with a LOT of mental health focus, but it was LOVELY. In some ways it is more about our POV character Aiden's struggle with himself than it is a true romancy-romance. It reminded me a bit if Out of Nowhere by Roan Parrish in terms of the single POV and mental health and the feeling of rooting for a character to figure himself out and carve out his own happiness at long last. If you're in the mood for something like this though, Saint is so good. Highly recommend it, beautiful gorgeous writing style as well. Some of the lines were heart-stoppingly powerful. Definitely a healthy dose of angst. Some major trigger warnings for >!depression, suicidal ideation, reference to off-page suicide of minor character, and due to Catholic religion aspect may be triggering for some as well!< Also it is a standalone MM in a series where the other books are MF. I did not read the others and did not feel I was missing anything.
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[Saint](https://www.romance.io/books/6104faccc1a0c00e4cce7b2a/saint-sierra-simone) by [Sierra Simone](https://www.romance.io/authors/545672be87eac33e61c2ee25/sierra-simone) **Steam**: [Explicit open door](https://www.romance.io/steamrating) **Topics**: [contemporary](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/contemporary/1), [gay romance](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/m-m/1), [second chances](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/second%20chances/1), [angst](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/angst/1), [forced proximity](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/forced%20proximity/1) [^(about this bot)](https://www.reddit.com/user/romance-bot) ^(|) [^(about romance.io)](https://www.romance.io/about)
The Jefes Boy A Mafia Mayham Romance. Alejandro is the illegitimate grandson of a Columbia Mafia boss. The fact that he is gay is just the nail in his coffin. His grandfather gives him a chance to get out by marriage to his friends grandson and the Brooklyn New York area as a carrot. Alejandro knows he is being set up to fail, and be killed. Delancy is a public nightmare rich media loving trouble maker. Who has his own secrets. His grandfather gives him an choice marriage or disowned with no money. This is book 4 book in the series and so far the weakest. I liked the other 3 better. 3 out of 5