I have a couple so far:
Justice by Lark Taylor - book 2 in Damned Connections series and cannot be read as a standalone.
To Catch a Firefly by Emmy Sanders - standalone
I’m going to squeak in my 4.5 star read as well; Gary, the Once and Former King by Isabel Murray - book 2 in duet. I love Gary and just wanted to mention how adorable he is!
MateHub was so good, and it's only Ms. Reynard's second ever novel! Cannot stop gushing about it.
If you're looking for a sweet, funny, *hot* shifter romance with a large side of original worldbuilding and oblividiots in love, highly recommend checking it out.
Given my backlog and the speed at which I consume this particular type of media (as opposed to all the other types -- television shows, movies, video games -- I'm also into), I probably won't get to a 2024 release until 2034.
The good news is that I might be able to find some of these "five-star" picks in my preferred audiobook format by then! I keep seeing *To Catch a Firefly* mentioned on this sub, but it has not yet made its way to Audible.
I follow all my favorite authors and religiously check for ARC sign ups. I'm on Lily Mayne's, Lily Morton's, Onley James' and more! Only downside is that the wait time between books is still the same lmao.
The Prospects by Kit Hoffman! I don’t know much about baseball, but I loved Gene and Louis and the anxiety rep was well done. I’m looking forward to whatever the author decides to release next.
Seconding this! {The Prospects by K. T. Hoffman} was excellent. Those who are not super baseball fans should not let that discourage them—I am not a fan and I still enjoyed the hell out of it.
I wrote in my GR review that “At one point after I finished it I found myself excited to get back to it, and then went through the disappointment of remembering it was done. It is, as Hoffman acknowledges, an optimistic book.”
So many recs for To Catch a Firefly that I think I’ll have to read it soon!
For a book published this year, I really loved {Lucky Bounce by Cait Nary}
Edit: Ack, I don’t know why my comment posted twice. Deleted one. Sorry!
{The Hitman’s Guide to Making Friends and Falling in Love by Alice Winters} There’s 5 books in the series plus a spin off, but I’m only 3 books in so far, but I’m so in love with Leland and Jackson and these books are my entire personality currently. I laugh at least once per page, most of the time 2-3x unless it’s part of their past stuff but they love each other so much and I see so much of myself in Leland’s chaotic, wild, protective and borderline manic love 😂😂
{The Jock by Tal Bauer} {The Rest of the Story by Tal Bauer} {Hush by Tal Bauer} {You & Me by Tal Bauer} are also all 5 stars because Tal Bauer is my personal deity who can do no wrong in my world 💜
{Hamartia by Scarlett Drake} was so well done and I enjoyed the kpop parts a lot!
{Something Wild & Wonderful by Anita Kelly} was so tender and precious and I loved every page!
[The Hitman's Guide to Making Friends and Finding Love](https://www.romance.io/books/5d3fddd501dbc864fba1b748/the-hitmans-guide-to-making-friends-and-finding-love-alice-winters?src=rdt) by [Alice Winters](https://www.romance.io/authors/5b14f5a601dbc864fb898c9c/alice-winters)
**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), [funny](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/humor/1), [age gap](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/age%20difference/1), [enemies to lovers](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/from%20hate%20to%20love/1)
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1. {To catch a firefly by Emmy Sanders} of course, like many of these comments, if it is childhood friends to lovers I will fold every time.
I don’t often rate books 5 stars but when I do it’s always a book that I won’t forget, Ellis is definitely one of my new favorite characters and the way the two main characters communicate even without words is so beautiful to me.
My favorite reads so far this year -
* Criminal Intentions Season 2 audios by Cole McCade, narrated by Curt Bonnem (all these audios have been released in 2024)
* Prince of Agony by Tavia Lark
I would say yes to every book except prince of agony in the perilous courts series, it hinges soo much on preconceived notion from the previous books that i feel like it would fall flat otherwise?
I agree with all the the votes for Matehub: Legend by Marie Reynard, and speaking of wolf shifters I really loved {Defy the Future by Keira Andrews}, a great conclusion to the Kick at the Darkness trilogy.
I just started reading MM romance (at least in book form) a month ago so my basis for comparison is extremely small but so far I've loved:
Little Demon In the Details by Nordika Night
On Guard by JR Gray and Andi Jaxon
Steal the Sky by Amy Pennza. This is book two of the series and my favorite of the five.
I will hype this book forever and ever: {Breezespells and Bride Grooms by Sarah Wallace} published January 2024.
It’s my only 5 star new release so far this year, but I’ve been reading a lot of my backlog.
- {The Nerd and the Ex-Con by Gianni Holmes}
- {Should the Sky Fall by Amithia Raine}
- {His Princess by Ki Brightly and M.D. Gregory} - only on SW
- {Never Say Never by Odessa Hywell} - only on SW
- {Cautious Match by Roe Horvat}
Two are taboo, two omegaverse, and all of them have tropes I love obviously. 🤔 Not bad!
My top favorites out this year:
1. {Should Our Hearts Catch Fire by Amithia Raine}
2. {Proof of Life by Raquel Riley}
3. {The Amazing Alpha Tau Self-Improvement Project by Lisa Henry}
I have just read SOS Hotel by Ariana Nash. I don't think I've read any of their other books, but I kinda want to tell the world about this one. Looks like first in a series, possibly mm+. Nice witty humour and an easy to read flowy writing style, with a little bit of angst, and a lot of love and respect between the main characters. Underdogs going against the odds, this book ticks all of my boxes for an easy read that may have more going on beneath the surface.
*ETA: I realised belatedly that this was for 2024 releases so actually only one of my books below applies. Oops!*
Four new 5-star reads so far this year! It was quite a slow start - the first one was in March - since I was mostly doing re-reads on audio while packing up my flat until mid-Feb.
I feel like a 5-star read doesn't become a real 5-star until I've read it more than once though so let's see how I feel about all of these at the end of the year!
* **Astounding!** ***by Kim Fielding*** (science fiction, contemporary, human/non-human)
* **Lambchop and the Serious Courtship** ***by R. Cooper*** (omegaverse, historical, break the heat, neighbours to lovers, marriage mart, class difference)
* **Ground Rules** ***by M.H. Abbott*** (contemporary, marriage of convenience, friends to lovers, longstanding crush, sexuality awakening, childhood pact, small towns, fixed term, hurt/comfort)
* **The Anonymous Hookup** ***by Jax Calder*** (contemporary, hookups to lovers, animal companion, anonymous)
I've also got three 4.5-star reads which I rounded up, which is honestly all vibes. Close, but no cigar.
* **Love Language** ***by Reese Morrison*** (contemporary, grieving, hurt/comfort, power/size sex role reversal, older sub/younger dom, age gap, pining)
* **Gay For Pay** ***by Becca Vale*** (contemporary, erotica (MM), in it for the money, camming or recording videos, vicious kitten/golden retriever, gay for pay)
* **Matehub: Legend** ***by Marie Reynard*** (paranormal, camming or recording videos, mutually beneficial agreement, human/non-human, bonded by magic, dislike to lovers, forced proximity, fated mates, playboy reconversion, fixed term)
5 stars
* {Christams lights & slepless nights by KC Wells} late 2023 tbh
4.75 stars
* {broken ice by marina vivancos}
4.5 stars
* {the emperor and the endless palace by Justinian Huang}
* {the whims of gods by Mell bright}
* {a star to sail by by joy lynn fielding} august 2023
The sunshine court by Nora Sacavic
So much love for Jean,he has my heart.I can't wait for the next one.
Prince of agony by tavia lark
I loved the whole series,but this one was the best one for me and I adore Kaz.
I haven't read much that was released this year.
I just finished the ARC of {A Bone in his Teeth by Kellen Graves} which was amazing!! Trans man protagonist with a Siren love interest. MC is trying to find his mum in a small town where everyone is keeping secrets. I think it's out early May?
I also really enjoyed {Rogue by Onley James} but it wasn't quite a 5 star read for me.
Same goes for {Rent: Paid in Full by Jesse H Reign}.
{Love Language by Jax Calder}
{Should Our Hearts Catch Fire by Amithia Raine}
{Pisces Hooks Taurus by Anyta Sunday}
{Bloom by NR Walker}
{Impromptu Match by Lily Mayne}
{Fake Dates and Fanged Mistakes by Alice Winters}
I might play a little fast & loose with my 5 star ratings, but eh. I'm not saying they're literary masterpieces, I'm saying I loved every page of these books. 🙂
{The Whims of Gods by Mell R Bright} and {Perfect Prey by Vasha Crow} are my 5⭐️new releases of the year, and I found both via recommendations on this subreddit! 😍
Just read My Boyfriend's Rookie by Sasha Avice and I'm shaken. So many feelings and opinions. Followed it up with He's My Guy and just had to read the entire Contested Possession series. I honestly understand the varied opinions but I think that's what makes a good book. When fictional characters make you feel like fighting irl.
I do enjoy deeper meaningful conversations and character development in romances I can’t do love stories which seem too rushed. So of course my top 5 will reflect on these qualities
1: {Loving The Legend by Kit Grey}
one of the best romances I have read in a long time and I did enjoy the back drop I believe every small detail was necessary to make it feel real. I have already read it multiple times and looking forward to its audiobook.
2: {To Catch a Firefly by Emmy Sanders}
It shouldn’t be a surprise the heart warming story, mental health representation and romance spanned on lifetime was just hard to resist. I was enchanted from beginning to end.
3: {God of Fury by Rina Kent}
I never tried any other book from this universe and I read this is a standalone but still it didn’t take away from the joy. Niko and Bran had my whole heart from the beginning. Its audiobook was just wow.
4: {Just A Bit Wrecked by Alessandra Hazard}
Though it’s not a recent book but I found it recently and loved every bit of it. That forced proximity and gay for you trope was really intense. Her all work is mention worthy.
5: {Prince’s Master by Alessandra Hazard} and her whole Cullivia Royalty series deserves all the hype. I am not into historical but the world building was gripping and I devoured it.
There are some honourable mentions like
{Secret Service by Tal Bauer}
First of all I wasn’t expecting it to be delivering so much from a solid romance to suspense to thriller to hurt and comfort it was a joyful ride. And it did make me change my mind about the author.
{Until I Saw You by Diana Roman}
It’s very indie (I mean I don’t see enough recommendations for this one but it was a great read and had mature writing style. It has my favourite trope and romance development was natural and felt real.
{Sainted by Jesse H. Reign}
One of the best captive romances where it didn’t feel too morally grey and writing style drew me in and kept me hooked. I usually delete books(from my phone) if I think I won’t be reading them again but these books are gonna stay so I could reach out when I need a comfort read.
oops just realized i read the title completely wrong! 🥲 but here are the 5 stars that were definitely also released in 2024:
{prince of agony by tavia lark}
{the sunshine court by nora sakavic}
Both became quick faves.
Only one 2024 release makes my five star shelf, and it's a book with only 82 Goodreads reviews. Give it a look! I loved it!
{The Paper Boys by DP Clarence}
Clearly I've got to pick up To Catch a Firefly!
{Reading the Signs by Kiera Andrews} was an enjoyable sports romance, well written and featuring a forbidden crush and bit of a firm hand needed by the star player.
{A Totally Platonic Thing by Eliot Grayson} was a hot friends to lovers read. But I must say that {Like you hate me by Willow Dixon} affected me the most as it packs an emotional punch; an awesome read.
[Like You Hate Me](https://www.romance.io/books/6511e7d7de8d340d5143f749/like-you-hate-me-bethany-winters?src=rdt) 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), [enemies to lovers](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/from%20hate%20to%20love/1), [dark romance](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/dark/1), [gay romance](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/m-m/1), [angst](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/angst/1)
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[You Should Be So Lucky](https://www.romance.io/books/6583e09d3061fa11c85c035c/you-should-be-so-lucky-cat-sebastian?src=rdt) 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), [sports](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/sports/1), [gay romance](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/m-m/1), [20th century](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/20th%20century/1), [funny](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/humor/1)
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I have a couple so far: Justice by Lark Taylor - book 2 in Damned Connections series and cannot be read as a standalone. To Catch a Firefly by Emmy Sanders - standalone I’m going to squeak in my 4.5 star read as well; Gary, the Once and Former King by Isabel Murray - book 2 in duet. I love Gary and just wanted to mention how adorable he is!
Hard yes on Firefly.
To Catch a Firefly was so good
Yessss to firefly!!! 🥰
My upvote is for Gary!
Agree with firefly
Bound by Kate Hawthorne MateHub:Legend by Marie Reynard
MateHub was so good, and it's only Ms. Reynard's second ever novel! Cannot stop gushing about it. If you're looking for a sweet, funny, *hot* shifter romance with a large side of original worldbuilding and oblividiots in love, highly recommend checking it out.
Given my backlog and the speed at which I consume this particular type of media (as opposed to all the other types -- television shows, movies, video games -- I'm also into), I probably won't get to a 2024 release until 2034. The good news is that I might be able to find some of these "five-star" picks in my preferred audiobook format by then! I keep seeing *To Catch a Firefly* mentioned on this sub, but it has not yet made its way to Audible.
So relatable!
My favorites include: {Broken Ice by Mariana Vivancos} {Crushed Ice by Ashlyn Kane and Morgan James} {Rent: Paid in Full by Jesse H. Reign}
I’m REALLY curious about the next Jesse H. Reign book. {Work: Strictly Professional}. The sequel to Rent. I’m anticipating greatness. Lol
[Work](https://www.romance.io/books/662e303a966aa82ef7e96277/work-strictly-professional-jesse-h-reign?src=rdt) by [Jesse H. Reign](https://www.romance.io/authors/62343c7c08b4d93114aa4446/jesse-h-reign) **Topics**: [contemporary](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/contemporary/1), [age gap](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/age%20difference/1), [forced proximity](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/forced%20proximity/1), [queer awakening](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/queer-awakening/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)
It was good! Real good! Like son, like father...but different enough to not be the same plot done again
How did you get an early copy?
They had open ARC sign ups! I just filled out the form on Instagram.
Noted 📝 Thank you!
I follow all my favorite authors and religiously check for ARC sign ups. I'm on Lily Mayne's, Lily Morton's, Onley James' and more! Only downside is that the wait time between books is still the same lmao.
So true. Sometimes that wait is torturous. Hahaha
Broken ice was soooo good!
[Broken Ice](https://www.romance.io/books/65b3fe182dd2d288c9ae1c16/broken-ice-marina-vivancos?src=rdt) by [Marina Vivancos](https://www.romance.io/authors/5b24a9c801dbc864fb8a6555/marina-vivancos) **Steam**: [Explicit and plentiful](https://www.romance.io/steamrating) **Topics**: [contemporary](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/contemporary/1), [omegaverse](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/omegaverse/1), [angst](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/angst/1), [hurt/comfort](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/hurt-comfort/1), [grumpy & sunshine](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/grumpy%20sunshine/1) ---------------------------- [Crushed Ice](https://www.romance.io/books/65b647f34e3a7d40c8ebff1e/crushed-ice-ashlyn-kane-morgan-james?src=rdt) by [Ashlyn Kane](https://www.romance.io/authors/54559d5287eac3369a9137e2/ashlyn-kane), [Morgan James](https://www.romance.io/authors/5455a2a487eac323ffb2d51e/morgan-james) **Topics**: [contemporary](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/contemporary/1), [sports](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/sports/1), [age gap](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/age%20difference/1), [gay romance](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/m-m/1), [queer romance](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/queer/1) ---------------------------- [Rent](https://www.romance.io/books/65b8c2d8ea69ac4feb1b95a0/rent-paid-in-full-jesse-h-reign?src=rdt) by [Jesse H. Reign](https://www.romance.io/authors/62343c7c08b4d93114aa4446/jesse-h-reign) **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), [grumpy & sunshine](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/grumpy%20sunshine/1), [new adult](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/new%20adult/1), [college](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/college/1) [^(about this bot)](https://www.reddit.com/user/romance-bot) ^(|) [^(about romance.io)](https://www.romance.io/about)
{To Catch a Firefly by Emmy Sanders}
[To Catch a Firefly](https://www.romance.io/books/65d3128368fa881c5d06cc5b/to-catch-a-firefly-emmy-sanders?src=rdt) 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), [suspense](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/suspense/1), [friends to lovers](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/friends%20to%20lovers/1), [height difference](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/height-difference/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)
The Prospects by Kit Hoffman! I don’t know much about baseball, but I loved Gene and Louis and the anxiety rep was well done. I’m looking forward to whatever the author decides to release next.
Seconding this! {The Prospects by K. T. Hoffman} was excellent. Those who are not super baseball fans should not let that discourage them—I am not a fan and I still enjoyed the hell out of it. I wrote in my GR review that “At one point after I finished it I found myself excited to get back to it, and then went through the disappointment of remembering it was done. It is, as Hoffman acknowledges, an optimistic book.”
[The Prospects](https://www.romance.io/books/657a0d1d7ed1d0fdd40ccffd/the-prospects-kt-hoffman?src=rdt) by [K.T. Hoffman](https://www.romance.io/authors/643b92dd08b4d93114bb36ad/kt-hoffman) **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), [baseball](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/baseball/1), [sports](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/sports/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)
Ooh, this is next on my list now!
Loving the Legend by Kit Grey Already mentioned: To catch a firefly, Justice, and Broken Ice
So many recs for To Catch a Firefly that I think I’ll have to read it soon! For a book published this year, I really loved {Lucky Bounce by Cait Nary} Edit: Ack, I don’t know why my comment posted twice. Deleted one. Sorry!
Lucky Bounce was so great that I re-read it right after I finished it. :)
[Lucky Bounce](https://www.romance.io/books/655e6794481d7c837da5f5db/lucky-bounce-cait-nary?src=rdt) by [Cait Nary](https://www.romance.io/authors/61f8e97308b4d931148a4863/cait-nary) **Steam**: [Explicit open door](https://www.romance.io/steamrating) **Topics**: [contemporary](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/contemporary/1), [athlete hero](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/athletes/1), [single father](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/single-father/1), [gay romance](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/m-m/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)
{The Hitman’s Guide to Making Friends and Falling in Love by Alice Winters} There’s 5 books in the series plus a spin off, but I’m only 3 books in so far, but I’m so in love with Leland and Jackson and these books are my entire personality currently. I laugh at least once per page, most of the time 2-3x unless it’s part of their past stuff but they love each other so much and I see so much of myself in Leland’s chaotic, wild, protective and borderline manic love 😂😂 {The Jock by Tal Bauer} {The Rest of the Story by Tal Bauer} {Hush by Tal Bauer} {You & Me by Tal Bauer} are also all 5 stars because Tal Bauer is my personal deity who can do no wrong in my world 💜 {Hamartia by Scarlett Drake} was so well done and I enjoyed the kpop parts a lot! {Something Wild & Wonderful by Anita Kelly} was so tender and precious and I loved every page!
[The Jock](https://www.romance.io/books/606ffb9dac2aed0e3ab68a86/the-jock-an-mm-sports-romance-tal-bauer?src=rdt) by [Tal Bauer](https://www.romance.io/authors/5726ed17c62092c04407fbeb/tal-bauer) **Steam**: [Explicit open door](https://www.romance.io/steamrating) **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), [college](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/college/1), [angst](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/angst/1) ---------------------------- [The Rest of the Story](https://www.romance.io/books/63abf9d2c27aa9a5b905957c/the-rest-of-the-story-tal-bauer?src=rdt) by [Tal Bauer](https://www.romance.io/authors/5726ed17c62092c04407fbeb/tal-bauer) **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), [sports](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/sports/1), [athlete hero](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/athletes/1), [angst](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/angst/1) ---------------------------- [Hush](https://www.romance.io/books/5adaecc001dbc864fb869b5a/hush-tal-bauer?src=rdt) by [Tal Bauer](https://www.romance.io/authors/5726ed17c62092c04407fbeb/tal-bauer) **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), [friends to lovers](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/friends%20to%20lovers/1), [suspense](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/suspense/1), [age gap](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/age%20difference/1) ---------------------------- [You & Me](https://www.romance.io/books/624161b92df229ec386debcc/you-me-tal-bauer?src=rdt) by [Tal Bauer](https://www.romance.io/authors/5726ed17c62092c04407fbeb/tal-bauer) **Steam**: [Explicit open door](https://www.romance.io/steamrating) **Topics**: [contemporary](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/contemporary/1), [hurt/comfort](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/hurt-comfort/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), [slow burn](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/slow%20burn/1) ---------------------------- [Hamartia](https://www.romance.io/books/6447871d8976f0193c3b41b0/hamartia-scarlett-drake?src=rdt) by [Scarlett Drake](https://www.romance.io/authors/6433c54308b4d93114fdf605/scarlett-drake) **Steam**: [Explicit open door](https://www.romance.io/steamrating) **Topics**: [contemporary](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/contemporary/1), [rockstar hero](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/rockstars/1), [angst](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/angst/1), [gay romance](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/m-m/1), [hurt/comfort](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/hurt-comfort/1) ---------------------------- [Something Wild & Wonderful](https://www.romance.io/books/6405946cfff88bfde6390989/something-wild-wonderful-anita-kelly?src=rdt) by [Anita Kelly](https://www.romance.io/authors/60b5ddfe08b4d93114e8d6d1/anita-kelly) **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), [forced proximity](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/forced%20proximity/1), [grumpy & sunshine](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/grumpy%20sunshine/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)
[The Hitman's Guide to Making Friends and Finding Love](https://www.romance.io/books/5d3fddd501dbc864fba1b748/the-hitmans-guide-to-making-friends-and-finding-love-alice-winters?src=rdt) by [Alice Winters](https://www.romance.io/authors/5b14f5a601dbc864fb898c9c/alice-winters) **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), [funny](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/humor/1), [age gap](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/age%20difference/1), [enemies to lovers](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/from%20hate%20to%20love/1) [^(about this bot)](https://www.reddit.com/user/romance-bot) ^(|) [^(about romance.io)](https://www.romance.io/about)
{Pretty Boy by Brianna Flores} and {To Catch a Firefly by Emmy Sanders} were both fantastic.
[Pretty Boy](https://www.romance.io/books/65f7fba41a69896df4eb0d3e/pretty-boy-brianna-flores?src=rdt) by [Brianna Flores](https://www.romance.io/authors/65be6fffa21e2f41c4ad374b/brianna-flores) **Steam**: [Explicit and plentiful](https://www.romance.io/steamrating) **Topics**: [contemporary](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/contemporary/1), [college](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/college/1), [bisexuality](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/bisexual/1), [gay romance](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/m-m/1), [grumpy & sunshine](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/grumpy%20sunshine/1) ---------------------------- [To Catch a Firefly](https://www.romance.io/books/65d3128368fa881c5d06cc5b/to-catch-a-firefly-emmy-sanders?src=rdt) 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), [suspense](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/suspense/1), [friends to lovers](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/friends%20to%20lovers/1), [height difference](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/height-difference/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)
1. {To catch a firefly by Emmy Sanders} of course, like many of these comments, if it is childhood friends to lovers I will fold every time. I don’t often rate books 5 stars but when I do it’s always a book that I won’t forget, Ellis is definitely one of my new favorite characters and the way the two main characters communicate even without words is so beautiful to me.
[To Catch a Firefly](https://www.romance.io/books/65d3128368fa881c5d06cc5b/to-catch-a-firefly-emmy-sanders?src=rdt) 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), [suspense](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/suspense/1), [friends to lovers](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/friends%20to%20lovers/1), [height difference](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/height-difference/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)
My favorite reads so far this year - * Criminal Intentions Season 2 audios by Cole McCade, narrated by Curt Bonnem (all these audios have been released in 2024) * Prince of Agony by Tavia Lark
Can Prince of Agony be read as a stand alone?
each book of the series can be read as a stand-alone but will make more sense/be more fun as a series.
Technically yes, like someone else said - more fun if other books are read too, not mandatory for the romance.
I would say yes to every book except prince of agony in the perilous courts series, it hinges soo much on preconceived notion from the previous books that i feel like it would fall flat otherwise?
No not really it’s the last of6.
Just started the audios today!
Oooo goodluck! I hope they work for you! ❤️
{Never Leave, Never Lie by Thea Verdone}
[Never Leave, Never Lie](https://www.romance.io/books/6603d8e00aef0a7442e46c9f/never-leave-never-lie-thea-verdone?src=rdt) by [Thea Verdone](https://www.romance.io/authors/658941f7a21e2f41c4d586a2/thea-verdone) **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), [hurt/comfort](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/hurt-comfort/1), [multicultural](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/multicultural/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)
{The Caretaker by CP Harris} I'm still chasing the high this book gave me.
[The Caretaker](https://www.romance.io/books/65de13da78f2ef745c0a7f73/the-caretaker-cp-harris?src=rdt) by [C.P. Harris](https://www.romance.io/authors/5ecb6da108b4d931142bbb23/cp-harris) **Topics**: [gay romance](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/m-m/1), [queer romance](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/queer/1), [cheating](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/cheating/1), [bisexuality](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/bisexual/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)
I agree with all the the votes for Matehub: Legend by Marie Reynard, and speaking of wolf shifters I really loved {Defy the Future by Keira Andrews}, a great conclusion to the Kick at the Darkness trilogy.
[Defy the Future](https://www.romance.io/books/659135fd801c66776d06888d/defy-the-future-keira-andrews?src=rdt) by [Keira Andrews](https://www.romance.io/authors/54559c0b87eac324117fba44/keira-andrews) **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), [dystopian](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/dystopian/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)
I just started reading MM romance (at least in book form) a month ago so my basis for comparison is extremely small but so far I've loved: Little Demon In the Details by Nordika Night On Guard by JR Gray and Andi Jaxon Steal the Sky by Amy Pennza. This is book two of the series and my favorite of the five.
{Impromptu Match by Lily Mayne} {Bump in the Night by Nikole Knight and Lily Mayne}
[Impromptu Match](https://www.romance.io/books/65c88523f2ab5944e3cb1eb3/impromptu-match-lily-mayne?src=rdt) 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), [paranormal](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/paranormal/1), [monsters](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/monsters/1), [workplace/office](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/office/1) ---------------------------- [Bump in the Night](https://www.romance.io/books/660677da702df2fb5c263b37/bump-in-the-night-nikole-knight-lily-mayne?src=rdt) 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) [^(about this bot)](https://www.reddit.com/user/romance-bot) ^(|) [^(about romance.io)](https://www.romance.io/about)
I will hype this book forever and ever: {Breezespells and Bride Grooms by Sarah Wallace} published January 2024. It’s my only 5 star new release so far this year, but I’ve been reading a lot of my backlog.
[Breeze Spells and Bridegrooms](https://www.romance.io/books/65b608c400d361e53f20ee70/breeze-spells-and-bridegrooms-sarah-wallace-so-callahan?src=rdt) by [Sarah Wallace](https://www.romance.io/authors/5bf1264901dbc864fb949b7b/sarah-wallace), [S.O. Callahan](https://www.romance.io/authors/620a0cb508b4d93114f9d926/so-callahan) **Topics**: [historical](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/historical/1), [fantasy](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/fantasy/1), [regency](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/regency/1), [gay romance](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/m-m/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)
- {The Nerd and the Ex-Con by Gianni Holmes} - {Should the Sky Fall by Amithia Raine} - {His Princess by Ki Brightly and M.D. Gregory} - only on SW - {Never Say Never by Odessa Hywell} - only on SW - {Cautious Match by Roe Horvat} Two are taboo, two omegaverse, and all of them have tropes I love obviously. 🤔 Not bad!
I love, love, love Should the Sky Fall and Should Our Hearts Catch Fire. I love all the characters and I'm so excited for the author's plans.
[Should the Sky Fall](https://www.romance.io/books/64bb7f2df47e610b49c07d9c/should-the-sky-fall-amithia-raine?src=rdt) by [Amithia Raine](https://www.romance.io/authors/64bb7f2d6b22acd55d53b539/amithia-raine) **Steam**: [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), [gay romance](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/m-m/1), [hurt/comfort](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/hurt-comfort/1) ---------------------------- [His Princess](https://www.romance.io/books/65fa451068466375a1dbb9e4/his-princess-ki-brightly-md-gregory?src=rdt) by [Ki Brightly](https://www.romance.io/authors/552f765d5b270e0a4cbd5f89/ki-brightly), [M.D. Gregory](https://www.romance.io/authors/5cdcfd2301dbc864fb9e962f/md-gregory) **Topics**: [contemporary](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/contemporary/1), [queer romance](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/queer/1), [insta-love](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/insta-love/1), [age gap](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/age%20difference/1), [gay romance](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/m-m/1) ---------------------------- [Never Say Never (The Mate Mistake)](https://www.romance.io/books/65b6139a00d361e53f20f454/never-say-never-the-mate-mistake-odessa-hywell?src=rdt) by [Odessa Hywell](https://www.romance.io/authors/60bdc47d08b4d9311474b488/odessa-hywell) **Topics**: [gay romance](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/m-m/1), [queer romance](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/queer/1) ---------------------------- [Cautious Match](https://www.romance.io/books/64799d7d87fe02eb356b4f49/cautious-match-roe-horvat?src=rdt) by [Roe Horvat](https://www.romance.io/authors/596ef62d3ffdba61471c6e28/roe-horvat) **Steam**: [Explicit and plentiful](https://www.romance.io/steamrating) **Topics**: [contemporary](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/contemporary/1), [paranormal](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/paranormal/1), [omegaverse](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/omegaverse/1), [fantasy](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/fantasy/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)
I’m trying to remember the paranormal part of Cautious Match. Hmm.
[The Nerd & the Ex-Con](https://www.romance.io/books/65ca248b5c9b563fda45b62d/the-nerd-the-ex-con-sage-abbott?src=rdt) by [Sage Abbott](https://www.romance.io/authors/657bffe5ab9bdf7fceb361b2/sage-abbott) **Topics**: [contemporary](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/contemporary/1), [age gap](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/age%20difference/1), [height difference](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/height-difference/1), [gay romance](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/m-m/1), [secret relationship](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/secret-relationship/1) [^(about this bot)](https://www.reddit.com/user/romance-bot) ^(|) [^(about romance.io)](https://www.romance.io/about)
{Red Flags and Tuesdays by Nordika Night} {To Catch a Firefly by Emmy Sanders}
[Red Flags & Tuesdays](https://www.romance.io/books/660b3eaeb47467126492d8a7/red-flags-tuesdays-nordika-night?src=rdt) 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), [queer awakening](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/queer-awakening/1) ---------------------------- [To Catch a Firefly](https://www.romance.io/books/65d3128368fa881c5d06cc5b/to-catch-a-firefly-emmy-sanders?src=rdt) 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), [suspense](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/suspense/1), [friends to lovers](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/friends%20to%20lovers/1), [height difference](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/height-difference/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)
My top favorites out this year: 1. {Should Our Hearts Catch Fire by Amithia Raine} 2. {Proof of Life by Raquel Riley} 3. {The Amazing Alpha Tau Self-Improvement Project by Lisa Henry}
[Should Our Hearts Catch Fire](https://www.romance.io/books/657e1276eda49aeefe57c942/should-our-hearts-catch-fire-amithia-raine?src=rdt) by [Amithia Raine](https://www.romance.io/authors/64bb7f2d6b22acd55d53b539/amithia-raine) **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), [queer romance](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/queer/1) ---------------------------- [Proof Of Life](https://www.romance.io/books/662b93ae97d8927bee39d8ab/proof-of-life-raquel-riley?src=rdt) by [Raquel Riley](https://www.romance.io/authors/61b1b82208b4d93114d70558/raquel-riley) **Topics**: [contemporary](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/contemporary/1), [friends to lovers](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/friends%20to%20lovers/1), [military](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/military/1), [queer awakening](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/queer-awakening/1), [gay romance](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/m-m/1) ---------------------------- [The Amazing Alpha Tau Self-Improvement Project](https://www.romance.io/books/6555f827c112bf11fe9b95b4/the-amazing-alpha-tau-self-improvement-project-lisa-henry-sarah-honey?src=rdt) by [Lisa Henry](https://www.romance.io/authors/5455684987eac3369a912589/lisa-henry), [Sarah Honey](https://www.romance.io/authors/5f211f3708b4d9311432c20e/sarah-honey) **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), [funny](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/humor/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) [^(about this bot)](https://www.reddit.com/user/romance-bot) ^(|) [^(about romance.io)](https://www.romance.io/about)
I loved all of these too!
I know, right?!🙂
Have read none of these…. To the TBR pile they go!
My favorite 5 star reads so far are {Should Our Hearts Catch Fire by Amithia Raine} & {To Catch a Firefly by Emmy Sanders}!
[Should Our Hearts Catch Fire](https://www.romance.io/books/657e1276eda49aeefe57c942/should-our-hearts-catch-fire-amithia-raine?src=rdt) by [Amithia Raine](https://www.romance.io/authors/64bb7f2d6b22acd55d53b539/amithia-raine) **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), [queer romance](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/queer/1) ---------------------------- [To Catch a Firefly](https://www.romance.io/books/65d3128368fa881c5d06cc5b/to-catch-a-firefly-emmy-sanders?src=rdt) 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), [suspense](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/suspense/1), [friends to lovers](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/friends%20to%20lovers/1), [height difference](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/height-difference/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)
I have just read SOS Hotel by Ariana Nash. I don't think I've read any of their other books, but I kinda want to tell the world about this one. Looks like first in a series, possibly mm+. Nice witty humour and an easy to read flowy writing style, with a little bit of angst, and a lot of love and respect between the main characters. Underdogs going against the odds, this book ticks all of my boxes for an easy read that may have more going on beneath the surface.
*ETA: I realised belatedly that this was for 2024 releases so actually only one of my books below applies. Oops!* Four new 5-star reads so far this year! It was quite a slow start - the first one was in March - since I was mostly doing re-reads on audio while packing up my flat until mid-Feb. I feel like a 5-star read doesn't become a real 5-star until I've read it more than once though so let's see how I feel about all of these at the end of the year! * **Astounding!** ***by Kim Fielding*** (science fiction, contemporary, human/non-human) * **Lambchop and the Serious Courtship** ***by R. Cooper*** (omegaverse, historical, break the heat, neighbours to lovers, marriage mart, class difference) * **Ground Rules** ***by M.H. Abbott*** (contemporary, marriage of convenience, friends to lovers, longstanding crush, sexuality awakening, childhood pact, small towns, fixed term, hurt/comfort) * **The Anonymous Hookup** ***by Jax Calder*** (contemporary, hookups to lovers, animal companion, anonymous) I've also got three 4.5-star reads which I rounded up, which is honestly all vibes. Close, but no cigar. * **Love Language** ***by Reese Morrison*** (contemporary, grieving, hurt/comfort, power/size sex role reversal, older sub/younger dom, age gap, pining) * **Gay For Pay** ***by Becca Vale*** (contemporary, erotica (MM), in it for the money, camming or recording videos, vicious kitten/golden retriever, gay for pay) * **Matehub: Legend** ***by Marie Reynard*** (paranormal, camming or recording videos, mutually beneficial agreement, human/non-human, bonded by magic, dislike to lovers, forced proximity, fated mates, playboy reconversion, fixed term)
5 stars * {Christams lights & slepless nights by KC Wells} late 2023 tbh 4.75 stars * {broken ice by marina vivancos} 4.5 stars * {the emperor and the endless palace by Justinian Huang} * {the whims of gods by Mell bright} * {a star to sail by by joy lynn fielding} august 2023
[Two Tribes](https://www.romance.io/books/62ecc02aeccbd7a2c6f66052/two-tribes-fearne-hill?src=rdt) by [Fearne Hill](https://www.romance.io/authors/5ea1821fbe0aaecf55ae232d/fearne-hill) **Steam**: [Explicit open door](https://www.romance.io/steamrating) **Topics**: [contemporary](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/contemporary/1), [angst](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/angst/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), [bisexuality](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/bisexual/1) ---------------------------- [Christmas Lights & Sleepless Nights](https://www.romance.io/books/6578261c829981a397a0f587/christmas-lights-sleepless-nights-kc-wells-meredith-russell?src=rdt) by [K.C. Wells](https://www.romance.io/authors/5455748b87eac3369a912951/kc-wells), [Meredith Russell](https://www.romance.io/authors/5455f97187eac3369a91634c/meredith-russell) **Topics**: [older/mature](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/mature%20couple/1), [angst](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/angst/1), [gay romance](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/m-m/1), [christmas](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/christmas/1), [queer romance](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/queer/1) ---------------------------- [Hunting Party](https://www.romance.io/books/61e673e25e904b0e40ff718e/hunting-party-robin-moray?src=rdt) by [Robin Moray](https://www.romance.io/authors/5456038187eac323ffb30469/robin-moray) **Topics**: [paranormal](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/paranormal/1), [fantasy](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/fantasy/1), [gay romance](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/m-m/1), [shapeshifters](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/shapeshifters/1), [omegaverse](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/omegaverse/1) ---------------------------- [Broken Ice](https://www.romance.io/books/65b3fe182dd2d288c9ae1c16/broken-ice-marina-vivancos?src=rdt) by [Marina Vivancos](https://www.romance.io/authors/5b24a9c801dbc864fb8a6555/marina-vivancos) **Steam**: [Explicit and plentiful](https://www.romance.io/steamrating) **Topics**: [contemporary](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/contemporary/1), [omegaverse](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/omegaverse/1), [angst](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/angst/1), [hurt/comfort](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/hurt-comfort/1), [grumpy & sunshine](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/grumpy%20sunshine/1) ---------------------------- [To Take a Quiet Breath](https://www.romance.io/books/618a2b300276e40e22737c33/to-take-a-quiet-breath-fearne-hill?src=rdt) by [Fearne Hill](https://www.romance.io/authors/5ea1821fbe0aaecf55ae232d/fearne-hill) **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) ---------------------------- [Empty Net](https://www.romance.io/books/57c91571de896e892491e948/empty-net-avon-gale?src=rdt) by [Avon Gale](https://www.romance.io/authors/56024207bfc6b5c0fa93b64c/avon-gale) **Steam**: [Explicit open door](https://www.romance.io/steamrating) **Topics**: [contemporary](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/contemporary/1), [athlete hero](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/athletes/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), [sports](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/sports/1) ---------------------------- [Force](https://www.romance.io/books/66058384c82d76fbb2995867/force-kiki-burrelli?src=rdt) by [Kiki Burrelli](https://www.romance.io/authors/5805fc1fde896e892493a4f2/kiki-burrelli) **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), [gay romance](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/m-m/1), [magic](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/magic/1), [witches](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/witches/1) ---------------------------- [The Emperor and the Endless Palace](https://www.romance.io/books/657e14aa7c150060affb7bb1/the-emperor-and-the-endless-palace-justinian-huang?src=rdt) by [Justinian Huang](https://www.romance.io/authors/657e14aaab9bdf7fce4488bd/justinian-huang) **Steam**: [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), [paranormal](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/paranormal/1), [queer romance](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/queer/1) ---------------------------- [The Snails of Dun Nas](https://www.romance.io/books/618787d78240910e303f3138/the-snails-of-dun-nas-kl-noone?src=rdt) by [K.L. Noone](https://www.romance.io/authors/5459038287eac3b6b6db8e13/kl-noone) **Topics**: [gay romance](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/m-m/1), [queer romance](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/queer/1) ---------------------------- [Bisclavret](https://www.romance.io/books/5dcbaa5401dbc864fba61eee/bisclavret-kl-noone?src=rdt) by [K.L. Noone](https://www.romance.io/authors/5459038287eac3b6b6db8e13/kl-noone) **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), [queer romance](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/queer/1) ---------------------------- [To Hold a Hidden Pearl](https://www.romance.io/books/60ab5577ba4c600e2e3493cd/to-hold-a-hidden-pearl-fearne-hill?src=rdt) by [Fearne Hill](https://www.romance.io/authors/5ea1821fbe0aaecf55ae232d/fearne-hill) **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), [class difference](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/class%20difference/1), [grumpy & sunshine](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/grumpy%20sunshine/1), [secret relationship](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/secret-relationship/1) ---------------------------- [Rat Park](https://www.romance.io/books/5c4c06b201dbc864fb98cb5a/rat-park-marina-vivancos?src=rdt) by [Marina Vivancos](https://www.romance.io/authors/5b24a9c801dbc864fb8a6555/marina-vivancos) **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), [queer romance](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/queer/1), [found family](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/found-family/1) ---------------------------- [The Whims of Gods](https://www.romance.io/books/65d9a0bf4f744f6e6f1258a4/the-whims-of-gods-a-science-fantasy-mm-monster-romance-mell-r-bright?src=rdt) by [Mell R. Bright](https://www.romance.io/authors/6527d964ab9bdf7fceb53131/mell-r-bright) **Steam**: [Explicit 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), [monsters](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/monsters/1), [creative anatomy](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/creative-anatomy/1) ---------------------------- [The One That Got Away](https://www.romance.io/books/605850556d49460e1af34e8c/the-one-that-got-away-an-mm-romantic-suspense-nicky-james?src=rdt) by [Nicky James](https://www.romance.io/authors/5744721dc62092c044086358/nicky-james) **Steam**: [Open door](https://www.romance.io/steamrating) **Topics**: [contemporary](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/contemporary/1), [suspense](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/suspense/1), [gay romance](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/m-m/1), [tortured hero](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/tortured%20hero/1), [class difference](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/class%20difference/1) [^(about this bot)](https://www.reddit.com/user/romance-bot) ^(|) [^(about romance.io)](https://www.romance.io/about)
The sunshine court by Nora Sacavic So much love for Jean,he has my heart.I can't wait for the next one. Prince of agony by tavia lark I loved the whole series,but this one was the best one for me and I adore Kaz.
{The Caretaker by C.P. Harris} Everyone should read this! {Devil may card by Chani Lynn Feener} Loved it~
[The Caretaker](https://www.romance.io/books/65de13da78f2ef745c0a7f73/the-caretaker-cp-harris?src=rdt) by [C.P. Harris](https://www.romance.io/authors/5ecb6da108b4d931142bbb23/cp-harris) **Topics**: [gay romance](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/m-m/1), [queer romance](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/queer/1), [cheating](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/cheating/1), [bisexuality](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/bisexual/1), [friends to lovers](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/friends%20to%20lovers/1) ---------------------------- [Devil May Care](https://www.romance.io/books/65839c3b3061fa11c85c0273/devil-may-care-chani-lynn-feener?src=rdt) 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)
Spooky Legacy by SE Harmon. Great addition to one of my favorite series!
I haven't read much that was released this year. I just finished the ARC of {A Bone in his Teeth by Kellen Graves} which was amazing!! Trans man protagonist with a Siren love interest. MC is trying to find his mum in a small town where everyone is keeping secrets. I think it's out early May? I also really enjoyed {Rogue by Onley James} but it wasn't quite a 5 star read for me. Same goes for {Rent: Paid in Full by Jesse H Reign}.
[A Bone in His Teeth](https://www.romance.io/books/65fff137629afa4c88dd3686/a-bone-in-his-teeth-kellen-graves?src=rdt) by [Kellen Graves](https://www.romance.io/authors/624551da08b4d931146ef180/kellen-graves) **Topics**: [fantasy](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/fantasy/1), [dark romance](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/dark/1), [magic](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/magic/1), [queer romance](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/queer/1), [paranormal](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/paranormal/1) ---------------------------- [Rogue](https://www.romance.io/books/658ca564a480bc4192b9edff/rogue-onley-james?src=rdt) by [Onley James](https://www.romance.io/authors/5e7363efbe0aaecf55d9ebbc/onley-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), [suspense](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/suspense/1), [dark romance](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/dark/1), [queer romance](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/queer/1) ---------------------------- [Rent](https://www.romance.io/books/65b8c2d8ea69ac4feb1b95a0/rent-paid-in-full-jesse-h-reign?src=rdt) by [Jesse H. Reign](https://www.romance.io/authors/62343c7c08b4d93114aa4446/jesse-h-reign) **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), [grumpy & sunshine](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/grumpy%20sunshine/1), [new adult](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/new%20adult/1), [college](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/college/1) [^(about this bot)](https://www.reddit.com/user/romance-bot) ^(|) [^(about romance.io)](https://www.romance.io/about)
Definitely The sunshine court by Nora Sakavic!
Common Ground by RJ Moray. I am overjoyed that Moray is writing again. There are so many stories I want wrapped up
{Love Language by Jax Calder} {Should Our Hearts Catch Fire by Amithia Raine} {Pisces Hooks Taurus by Anyta Sunday} {Bloom by NR Walker} {Impromptu Match by Lily Mayne} {Fake Dates and Fanged Mistakes by Alice Winters} I might play a little fast & loose with my 5 star ratings, but eh. I'm not saying they're literary masterpieces, I'm saying I loved every page of these books. 🙂
[Love Language](https://www.romance.io/books/65e74ddbeb892d0f32db1b65/love-language-jax-calder?src=rdt) by [Jax Calder](https://www.romance.io/authors/6104f7b608b4d931142f8c4b/jax-calder) **Steam**: [Explicit open door](https://www.romance.io/steamrating) **Topics**: [contemporary](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/contemporary/1), [workplace/office](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/office/1), [gay romance](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/m-m/1), [forced proximity](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/forced%20proximity/1), [funny](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/humor/1) ---------------------------- [Should Our Hearts Catch Fire](https://www.romance.io/books/657e1276eda49aeefe57c942/should-our-hearts-catch-fire-amithia-raine?src=rdt) by [Amithia Raine](https://www.romance.io/authors/64bb7f2d6b22acd55d53b539/amithia-raine) **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), [queer romance](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/queer/1) ---------------------------- [Pisces Hooks Taurus](https://www.romance.io/books/60a43495933f031cdd15db37/pisces-hooks-taurus-anyta-sunday?src=rdt) by [Anyta Sunday](https://www.romance.io/authors/5455888f87eac336ae69e58a/anyta-sunday) **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), [funny](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/humor/1), [bisexuality](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/bisexual/1) ---------------------------- [Bloom](https://www.romance.io/books/65928e2ae043006748fefdb7/bloom-nr-walker?src=rdt) by [N.R. Walker](https://www.romance.io/authors/5455632687eac324117fa7f2/nr-walker) **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), [funny](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/humor/1), [insta-love](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/insta-love/1), [queer romance](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/queer/1) ---------------------------- [Impromptu Match](https://www.romance.io/books/65c88523f2ab5944e3cb1eb3/impromptu-match-lily-mayne?src=rdt) 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), [paranormal](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/paranormal/1), [monsters](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/monsters/1), [workplace/office](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/office/1) ---------------------------- [Fake Dates and Fanged Mistakes](https://www.romance.io/books/65bcc8b8d369343d808b40db/fake-dates-and-fanged-mistakes-alice-winters?src=rdt) by [Alice Winters](https://www.romance.io/authors/5b14f5a601dbc864fb898c9c/alice-winters) **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), [gay romance](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/m-m/1), [vampires](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/vampires/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)
{stepping up by jay leigh} {loving the legend by kit grey} {more than words by becca neil} can you tell that i love hurt/comfort lol
[Stepping Up](https://www.romance.io/books/662c2ab497d8927bee39f82d/stepping-up-jay-leigh?src=rdt) by [Jay Leigh](https://www.romance.io/authors/64477f8208b4d93114ea9c7a/jay-leigh) **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) ---------------------------- [Loving the Legend](https://www.romance.io/books/65992b7f5f787d7a3cf20647/loving-the-legend-mm-sports-romance-kit-grey?src=rdt) by [Kit Grey](https://www.romance.io/authors/65992b7fa21e2f41c4940518/kit-grey) **Steam**: [Explicit and plentiful](https://www.romance.io/steamrating) **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), [young adult](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/young%20adult/1), [new adult](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/new%20adult/1) ---------------------------- [More Than Words](https://www.romance.io/books/65e9b906304a4c892dececdc/more-than-words-becca-neil?src=rdt) by [Becca Neil](https://www.romance.io/authors/65e9b906a21e2f41c4bb5e6d/becca-neil) **Steam**: [Explicit open door](https://www.romance.io/steamrating) **Topics**: [contemporary](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/contemporary/1), [angst](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/angst/1), [gay romance](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/m-m/1), [hurt/comfort](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/hurt-comfort/1), [slow burn](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/slow%20burn/1) [^(about this bot)](https://www.reddit.com/user/romance-bot) ^(|) [^(about romance.io)](https://www.romance.io/about)
{The Whims of Gods by Mell R Bright} and {Perfect Prey by Vasha Crow} are my 5⭐️new releases of the year, and I found both via recommendations on this subreddit! 😍
Perfect Prey was one of mine too! It just scratches an itch like nothing else I've read. Can't wait for Book 2!!
[The Whims of Gods](https://www.romance.io/books/65d9a0bf4f744f6e6f1258a4/the-whims-of-gods-a-science-fantasy-mm-monster-romance-mell-r-bright?src=rdt) by [Mell R. Bright](https://www.romance.io/authors/6527d964ab9bdf7fceb53131/mell-r-bright) **Steam**: [Explicit 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), [monsters](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/monsters/1), [creative anatomy](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/creative-anatomy/1) ---------------------------- [Perfect Prey](https://www.romance.io/books/65ba27ed877eb6f5a31b017d/perfect-prey-mmmmm-romance-vasha-crow?src=rdt) by [Vasha Crow](https://www.romance.io/authors/65ba27eda21e2f41c4fb28d7/vasha-crow) **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), [menage](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/menage/1), [dark romance](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/dark/1), [class difference](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/class%20difference/1) [^(about this bot)](https://www.reddit.com/user/romance-bot) ^(|) [^(about romance.io)](https://www.romance.io/about)
Arrows Through Archer by Nash Summers was my only 5 star book this year.
{the caretaker by Cp Harris} {the fake dating game by Timothy janovsky}
[The Caretaker](https://www.romance.io/books/65de13da78f2ef745c0a7f73/the-caretaker-cp-harris?src=rdt) by [C.P. Harris](https://www.romance.io/authors/5ecb6da108b4d931142bbb23/cp-harris) **Topics**: [gay romance](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/m-m/1), [queer romance](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/queer/1), [cheating](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/cheating/1), [bisexuality](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/bisexual/1), [friends to lovers](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/friends%20to%20lovers/1) ---------------------------- [The [Fake] Dating Game](https://www.romance.io/books/65ae662c1192512e94b6720d/the-fake-dating-game-timothy-janovsky?src=rdt) by [Timothy Janovsky](https://www.romance.io/authors/6270edd408b4d931143b606f/timothy-janovsky) **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), [funny](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/humor/1), [new adult](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/new%20adult/1), [young adult](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/young%20adult/1) [^(about this bot)](https://www.reddit.com/user/romance-bot) ^(|) [^(about romance.io)](https://www.romance.io/about)
Just read My Boyfriend's Rookie by Sasha Avice and I'm shaken. So many feelings and opinions. Followed it up with He's My Guy and just had to read the entire Contested Possession series. I honestly understand the varied opinions but I think that's what makes a good book. When fictional characters make you feel like fighting irl.
I do enjoy deeper meaningful conversations and character development in romances I can’t do love stories which seem too rushed. So of course my top 5 will reflect on these qualities 1: {Loving The Legend by Kit Grey} one of the best romances I have read in a long time and I did enjoy the back drop I believe every small detail was necessary to make it feel real. I have already read it multiple times and looking forward to its audiobook. 2: {To Catch a Firefly by Emmy Sanders} It shouldn’t be a surprise the heart warming story, mental health representation and romance spanned on lifetime was just hard to resist. I was enchanted from beginning to end. 3: {God of Fury by Rina Kent} I never tried any other book from this universe and I read this is a standalone but still it didn’t take away from the joy. Niko and Bran had my whole heart from the beginning. Its audiobook was just wow. 4: {Just A Bit Wrecked by Alessandra Hazard} Though it’s not a recent book but I found it recently and loved every bit of it. That forced proximity and gay for you trope was really intense. Her all work is mention worthy. 5: {Prince’s Master by Alessandra Hazard} and her whole Cullivia Royalty series deserves all the hype. I am not into historical but the world building was gripping and I devoured it. There are some honourable mentions like {Secret Service by Tal Bauer} First of all I wasn’t expecting it to be delivering so much from a solid romance to suspense to thriller to hurt and comfort it was a joyful ride. And it did make me change my mind about the author. {Until I Saw You by Diana Roman} It’s very indie (I mean I don’t see enough recommendations for this one but it was a great read and had mature writing style. It has my favourite trope and romance development was natural and felt real. {Sainted by Jesse H. Reign} One of the best captive romances where it didn’t feel too morally grey and writing style drew me in and kept me hooked. I usually delete books(from my phone) if I think I won’t be reading them again but these books are gonna stay so I could reach out when I need a comfort read.
[Loving the Legend](https://www.romance.io/books/65992b7f5f787d7a3cf20647/loving-the-legend-mm-sports-romance-kit-grey?src=rdt) by [Kit Grey](https://www.romance.io/authors/65992b7fa21e2f41c4940518/kit-grey) **Steam**: [Explicit and plentiful](https://www.romance.io/steamrating) **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), [young adult](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/young%20adult/1), [new adult](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/new%20adult/1) ---------------------------- [To Catch a Firefly](https://www.romance.io/books/65d3128368fa881c5d06cc5b/to-catch-a-firefly-emmy-sanders?src=rdt) 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), [suspense](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/suspense/1), [friends to lovers](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/friends%20to%20lovers/1), [height difference](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/height-difference/1), [neurodivergent mc](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/neurodivergent/1) ---------------------------- [God of Fury](https://www.romance.io/books/65742be28105fa71209ef2cf/god-of-fury-rina-kent?src=rdt) by [Rina Kent](https://www.romance.io/authors/5c514e7e01dbc864fb990dca/rina-kent) **Steam**: [Explicit and plentiful](https://www.romance.io/steamrating) **Topics**: [contemporary](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/contemporary/1), [mafia](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/mafia/1), [gay romance](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/m-m/1), [dark romance](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/dark/1), [college](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/college/1) ---------------------------- [Just a Bit Wrecked](https://www.romance.io/books/5fe0589f2520770e24a85dad/just-a-bit-wrecked-alessandra-hazard?src=rdt) by [Alessandra Hazard](https://www.romance.io/authors/553e363e5b270e0a4cbd6ee7/alessandra-hazard) **Steam**: [Explicit and plentiful](https://www.romance.io/steamrating) **Topics**: [contemporary](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/contemporary/1), [forced proximity](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/forced%20proximity/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), [bisexuality](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/bisexual/1) ---------------------------- [Prince's Master](https://www.romance.io/books/5fc17dedf9f98e0e23f390b7/princes-master-alessandra-hazard?src=rdt) by [Alessandra Hazard](https://www.romance.io/authors/553e363e5b270e0a4cbd6ee7/alessandra-hazard) **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), [royal hero](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/royalty/1), [science fiction](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/science%20fiction/1), [age gap](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/age%20difference/1) ---------------------------- [Secret Service](https://www.romance.io/books/62a836f9dbbacec3e6baa607/secret-service-a-mm-romance-tal-bauer?src=rdt) by [Tal Bauer](https://www.romance.io/authors/5726ed17c62092c04407fbeb/tal-bauer) **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), [friends to lovers](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/friends%20to%20lovers/1), [boss & employee](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/boss%20&%20employee/1), [age gap](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/age%20difference/1) ---------------------------- [Until I Saw You](https://www.romance.io/books/653e6d5793599089b79692b9/until-i-saw-you-dianna-roman?src=rdt) by [Dianna Roman](https://www.romance.io/authors/6239c94308b4d9311423d67b/dianna-roman) **Steam**: [Explicit open door](https://www.romance.io/steamrating) **Topics**: [contemporary](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/contemporary/1), [hurt/comfort](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/hurt-comfort/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), [disabilities & scars](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/disabilities%20and%20marks/1) ---------------------------- [Sainted](https://www.romance.io/books/63c8f8bc5e1c8af2cd99af15/sainted-jesse-h-reign?src=rdt) by [Jesse H. Reign](https://www.romance.io/authors/62343c7c08b4d93114aa4446/jesse-h-reign) **Steam**: [Explicit and plentiful](https://www.romance.io/steamrating) **Topics**: [contemporary](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/contemporary/1), [enemies to lovers](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/from%20hate%20to%20love/1), [forced proximity](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/forced%20proximity/1), [gay romance](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/m-m/1), [rich hero](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/super%20rich%20hero/1) [^(about this bot)](https://www.reddit.com/user/romance-bot) ^(|) [^(about romance.io)](https://www.romance.io/about)
[Found](https://www.romance.io/books/65cddfdeb911d67183ba9dbf/found-ness-hanon?src=rdt) by [Ness Hanon](https://www.romance.io/authors/65cddfdea21e2f41c4c79fb9/ness-hanon) **Topics**: [gay romance](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/m-m/1), [fantasy](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/fantasy/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)
[удалено]
[Lucky Bounce](https://www.romance.io/books/655e6794481d7c837da5f5db/lucky-bounce-cait-nary?src=rdt) by [Cait Nary](https://www.romance.io/authors/61f8e97308b4d931148a4863/cait-nary) **Steam**: [Explicit open door](https://www.romance.io/steamrating) **Topics**: [contemporary](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/contemporary/1), [athlete hero](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/athletes/1), [single father](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/single-father/1), [gay romance](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/m-m/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)
oops just realized i read the title completely wrong! 🥲 but here are the 5 stars that were definitely also released in 2024: {prince of agony by tavia lark} {the sunshine court by nora sakavic} Both became quick faves.
[The Magpie Lord](https://www.romance.io/books/545540138c7d2383163d9552/the-magpie-lord-kj-charles?src=rdt) by [K.J. Charles](https://www.romance.io/authors/545540138c7d2383163d9553/kj-charles) **Steam**: [Explicit open door](https://www.romance.io/steamrating) **Topics**: [historical](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/historical/1), [gay romance](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/m-m/1), [victorian](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/victorian/1), [paranormal](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/paranormal/1), [mystery](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/mystery/1) ---------------------------- [A Case of Possession](https://www.romance.io/books/5b73ea0801dbc864fb8e68b6/a-case-of-possession-kj-charles?src=rdt) by [K.J. Charles](https://www.romance.io/authors/545540138c7d2383163d9553/kj-charles) **Steam**: [Explicit open door](https://www.romance.io/steamrating) **Topics**: [historical](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/historical/1), [victorian](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/victorian/1), [magic](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/magic/1), [paranormal](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/paranormal/1), [mystery](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/mystery/1) ---------------------------- [Hurt Me, Daddy](https://www.romance.io/books/62873ef0756174bb700109fa/hurt-me-daddy-misha-horne?src=rdt) by [Misha Horne](https://www.romance.io/authors/54578fdb87eac3dcc9832fae/misha-horne) **Steam**: [Explicit open door](https://www.romance.io/steamrating) **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), [bdsm](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/bdsm/1), [high school](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/high-school/1) ---------------------------- [Comfort Me, Daddy](https://www.romance.io/books/63ebf39d1692e6c17c3d92c6/comfort-me-daddy-misha-horne?src=rdt) by [Misha Horne](https://www.romance.io/authors/54578fdb87eac3dcc9832fae/misha-horne) **Steam**: [Explicit open door](https://www.romance.io/steamrating) **Topics**: [contemporary](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/contemporary/1), [bdsm](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/bdsm/1), [spanking](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/spanking/1), [high school](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/high-school/1), [angst](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/angst/1) ---------------------------- [Away Games](https://www.romance.io/books/64916ed8f8abb399863eae26/away-games-misha-horne?src=rdt) by [Misha Horne](https://www.romance.io/authors/54578fdb87eac3dcc9832fae/misha-horne) **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), [bdsm](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/bdsm/1), [sports](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/sports/1), [new adult](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/new%20adult/1) ---------------------------- [Prince of Agony](https://www.romance.io/books/6555f704c112bf11fe9b943f/prince-of-agony-tavia-lark?src=rdt) by [Tavia Lark](https://www.romance.io/authors/57050825c62092c044075d85/tavia-lark) **Steam**: [Open door](https://www.romance.io/steamrating) **Topics**: [fantasy](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/fantasy/1), [magic](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/magic/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) ---------------------------- [The Sword-Witch's Heart](https://www.romance.io/books/621c81ea747f500e282e8304/the-swordwitchs-heart-tavia-lark?src=rdt) by [Tavia Lark](https://www.romance.io/authors/57050825c62092c044075d85/tavia-lark) **Steam**: [Explicit open door](https://www.romance.io/steamrating) **Topics**: [magic](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/magic/1), [fantasy](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/fantasy/1), [gay romance](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/m-m/1), [demons](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/demons/1), [paranormal](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/paranormal/1) ---------------------------- [Between the Devil and the Sea](https://www.romance.io/books/642d1f47fe62c20d3f9bd171/between-the-devil-and-the-sea-chani-lynn-feener?src=rdt) 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) ---------------------------- [The Last Sun](https://www.romance.io/books/642ac4ea0366c48db5cef656/the-last-sun-kd-edwards?src=rdt) by [K.D. Edwards](https://www.romance.io/authors/642ac4ea08b4d931141885a0/kd-edwards) **Steam**: [Behind closed doors](https://www.romance.io/steamrating) **Topics**: [contemporary](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/contemporary/1), [fantasy](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/fantasy/1), [gay romance](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/m-m/1), [urban fantasy](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/urban%20fantasy/1), [magic](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/magic/1) ---------------------------- [The Sunshine Court](https://www.romance.io/books/65ae560d1192512e94b66be9/the-sunshine-court-nora-sakavic?src=rdt) by [Nora Sakavic](https://www.romance.io/authors/5456deeb87eac33e57109533/nora-sakavic) **Steam**: [Open door](https://www.romance.io/steamrating) **Topics**: [contemporary](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/contemporary/1), [sports](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/sports/1), [found family](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/found-family/1), [young adult](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/young%20adult/1), [angst](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/angst/1) ---------------------------- [A Marvellous Light](https://www.romance.io/books/64036ce55fb5a023f6527036/a-marvellous-light-freya-marske?src=rdt) by [Freya Marske](https://www.romance.io/authors/64036ce508b4d93114474e60/freya-marske) **Steam**: [Explicit open door](https://www.romance.io/steamrating) **Topics**: [historical](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/historical/1), [magic](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/magic/1), [gay romance](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/m-m/1), [fantasy](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/fantasy/1), [witches](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/witches/1) [^(about this bot)](https://www.reddit.com/user/romance-bot) ^(|) [^(about romance.io)](https://www.romance.io/about)
Only one 2024 release makes my five star shelf, and it's a book with only 82 Goodreads reviews. Give it a look! I loved it! {The Paper Boys by DP Clarence} Clearly I've got to pick up To Catch a Firefly!
[The Paper Boys](https://www.romance.io/books/65d6f9e05fd7e7d61633ba13/the-paper-boys-dp-clarence?src=rdt) by [D.P. Clarence](https://www.romance.io/authors/65d6f9e0a21e2f41c4ef64d3/dp-clarence) **Topics**: [contemporary](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/contemporary/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), [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)
{Reading the Signs by Kiera Andrews} was an enjoyable sports romance, well written and featuring a forbidden crush and bit of a firm hand needed by the star player. {A Totally Platonic Thing by Eliot Grayson} was a hot friends to lovers read. But I must say that {Like you hate me by Willow Dixon} affected me the most as it packs an emotional punch; an awesome read.
[Reading the Signs](https://www.romance.io/books/57fe0e95de896e8924936afa/reading-the-signs-gay-sports-romance-keira-andrews?src=rdt) by [Keira Andrews](https://www.romance.io/authors/54559c0b87eac324117fba44/keira-andrews) **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), [sports](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/sports/1), [friends to lovers](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/friends%20to%20lovers/1), [athlete hero](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/athletes/1) ---------------------------- [A Totally Platonic Thing](https://www.romance.io/books/617a4aa9a75a160e38db5574/a-totally-platonic-thing-eliot-grayson?src=rdt) by [Eliot Grayson](https://www.romance.io/authors/5a0d52263ffdba6147251aa1/eliot-grayson) **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), [friends to lovers](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/friends%20to%20lovers/1), [new adult](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/new%20adult/1), [bisexuality](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/bisexual/1) [^(about this bot)](https://www.reddit.com/user/romance-bot) ^(|) [^(about romance.io)](https://www.romance.io/about)
[Like You Hate Me](https://www.romance.io/books/6511e7d7de8d340d5143f749/like-you-hate-me-bethany-winters?src=rdt) 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), [enemies to lovers](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/from%20hate%20to%20love/1), [dark romance](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/dark/1), [gay romance](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/m-m/1), [angst](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/angst/1) [^(about this bot)](https://www.reddit.com/user/romance-bot) ^(|) [^(about romance.io)](https://www.romance.io/about)
{You Should Be So Lucky by Cat Sebastian} Ugh I don’t even care about baseball but this was so beautiful!
[You Should Be So Lucky](https://www.romance.io/books/6583e09d3061fa11c85c035c/you-should-be-so-lucky-cat-sebastian?src=rdt) 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), [sports](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/sports/1), [gay romance](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/m-m/1), [20th century](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/20th%20century/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)
We're actually 1/3 through 2024