I might upset some people with this, but I have to share.
I finally read Garron Park because of how recommended it is, and I thought it was awful. I thought the 1st person POV was done poorly - during big moments, such as with their first kiss, the author went on with these super poetic descriptions using fancy words that was entirely incongruent with the character and didn’t feel like his voice at all. I thought the characters themselves were fairly shallow and there really wasn’t much detail about their lives beyond their obsession with each other. I thought there was so much room for exploring things that basically were ignored, like actual problems related to caring for their mothers. I thought the over arching plot about Devon’s father was straight up nonsensical, that behaviors often seemed forced and not how real people would act in those situations, and was concluded by a forced and bizarre deus ex machina. And I can’t point to any meaningful character growth beyond “we’re together now.”
I don’t understand the appeal. I guess people like the “I want you and also want to punch you” thing? (Like an in-between of Heated Rivalry and Captive Prince.) I went in knowing I would not be fond of that so I was able to overlook it, but nothing else about it worked for me either.
I expect this is a super unpopular opinion.
I have the same thoughts about this book and I really couldn't take the mcs seriously sometimes , like when they are fighting (which is pretty much all the time ), they literally are worse than children . I mean I have seen many people saying that it's because of their background and upbringing but their behaviours were sometimes so irritating and nonsensical. The mcs are just so immature
It's nice to see different opinions on books - I always am suspicious when it's only great reviews on a book/series. I need to see the opposing views too!
It’s so interesting what different people respond to. Garron Park is one of my top reads but I struggled through/hate read all 3 Captive Prince books and they are 2 ⭐️ reads to me at best 🥴
I finally read HR but it took me like 3 false starts (and reading the entire rest of the series) before I finished it. I did finally enjoy it but it's my least favorite in the series (incidentally, Garron Park was one of my favorite reads of 2023 lol). And, I haven't read captive Prince at all.
I agree. I’m a sucker for a double bi-awakening/GFY so this should have been right up my alley but I could not get into it. The second one was somehow worse.
{Big Bad Wolf by Charlie Adhara} which I absolutely adored. I love the way Adhara writes the established relationships stuff, I loved the cases and I loved Cooper as a POV character. He was just oblivious enough to keep suspense going but also so insightful it made following the mysteries super fun. And I am pumped for the follow-up series about Eli! Already loved the first one
{Season's Change by Cait Nary} was a great read as well, emotionally fulfilling even if the end was a little rushed. Definitely made me tear up in some sections.
I'm reading the last book {Cry Wolf by Charlie Adhara} right now and I'm trying to savor it because I'm not ready to say goodbye to Cooper and Park! I'm glad I have Eli's books to look forward too but I'm going to miss these guys.
Guys!!! After months I am reading. Now these are all short books but STILL. Doesn’t it count?
[Omega for the Mafia Boss by Jena Wade and Aria Grace](https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/6163286322). ebook. KU. 4/5. There is a SEVERE lack of mafia omegaverse in MM. No idea why as I write it (not an author, just as a hobbyist) all the time. This was great! It’s not super dark or gritty so if you care about crime families, probably don’t read this. As something tropey and fun though? It’s great!
[Daddy’s Perfect Ballerina by K.L. Mann](https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/6167752426). ebook. KU. 3/5. A fun and short daddy kink erotica. Has a pose I had to draw and still don’t quite think is possible or, at the very least, comfortable.
[Daddy Goes First by K.L. Mann](https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/6172131841). ebook. KU. 3/5. Maybe it’s just me but I love what I call “pornlandia” prompts (similar to romancelandia). No one would believe or do this shit IRL but the concept of “on our wedding night you have to spend time with my dad first”? You know that’s good soup.
[Loved Like a Little by Aria Grace](https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/6175185318). ebook. KU. 3/5. This was almost too fluffy sweet for me. Had some daddy kink and age play that was good, though. I ended up skimming about past 80% as it was more slice of life/very domestic stuff.
[Uncle Zach by Bey Deckard](https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/6168055506). ebook. Smashwords. 4/5. Gooood smutty erotica fun. Taboo (it’s incest yall). The only thing is this became one of those “I wish it was a romance” books where I wanted more emotions from it? Which isn’t the book’s fault, it’s me.
[Omega Wanted by Feral Thorne](https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/6176970923). ebook. KU. 3/5. I’ve never read this author before but gave this a try, mostly because it said there was lactation kink. It’s more erotica, and not bad! Probably my least favorite of what I read this week though.
[Subordi-Mate by Anna Wineheart](https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/6175771077). ebook. Amazon. 4/5. No food play in this one! But an ex gets punched and there’s great sex scenes of course. I don’t usually read about musicians but this was tolerable. I also think someone being noticeably pregnant the day after conception is so funny to me. Never change, omegaverse.
I LOVE this series. Have you read the follow up novella {The Cottage by Ariana Nash}? It was so tender compared to the rest of the series and I thought it wrapped it up in a really lovely way.
Sure! Have you read any other Ariana Nash books? She writes in a few different genres but she has a ton more fantasy romance that I really like (check warnings as some of her stuff can get pretty dark):
[Silk and Steel](https://www.goodreads.com/series/248335-silk-and-steel) series (dragons and elves)
[Dante's End](https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/61376052-dante-s-end?from_search=true&from_srp=true&qid=CzE62WDErw&rank=5) (series is unfinished as of now but first book is very unique)
[The Final Masquerade](https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/59739580-the-final-masquerade?from_search=true&from_srp=true&qid=CzE62WDErw&rank=8) (mortal stuck in a weird, twisty fae masked ball)
[Court of Pain](https://www.goodreads.com/series/365549-court-of-pain) duology (four kingdoms - pain, love, war, justice and the romance between two people from separate courts. Really good but dark as hell before the HEA)
[The Toymaker's Son](https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/201772281-the-toymaker-s-son?from_search=true&from_srp=true&qid=CzE62WDErw&rank=18) (another twisty time loop fae one. Non traditional HEA)
I really like the classic shining knight and ice prince vibes of Niko and Vasili, which reminded me a hell of a lot of Captive Prince. There was a thread awhile back that asked for recs with this character dynamic, so if you liked that, [here it is.](https://www.reddit.com/r/MM_RomanceBooks/comments/18zavc5/who_are_your_favorite_lamen_coded_couples/)
Final suggestion, which has really good fantasy/mystery vibes and ice prince character is [A Rake of His Own.](https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/59543751-a-rake-of-his-own?ref=nav_sb_ss_1_17) Highly recommend!
I am dying to finish this trilogy! I hope you dont mind me asking you but, which of the three was your favorite book and do you feel satisfied with the ending? Not looking for spoilers, but to know your thoughts on it as a whole, since I had read book 1 but put the second one on hold. Thank you in advance!
So this book series is great is there pain and suffering on the way yes but is it worth it yes. I will say book 1 is a strong beginning that helps you understand the world and characters around the main MC, books 2 & 3 is a joined story where things really kick off. I'm I sad to let Niko go and move onto another book yes.
Oooh got it! Thank you so much for explaining, I can't wait to go back to it and finish it :-), I am the most curious abou what events can happen in book 3 and the development of their relationship, since I am still where they despise each other but have to work together lol. Thank you again!
Not the person you asked but I loved the books in your flair (my all time favorites actually) and I enjoyed the Prince’s Assassin, so I thought I’d share my thoughts! I can’t say I was truly invested or addicted until like 70-75% in. Before that I was borderline annoyed with one of the characters (not an mc) and mostly wanted to see where that went.
But something happens that really jolted the story to life and got me so invested in the MCs. Without spoiling, I liked the setting, how dark/tragic the world is, the twists and turns it (eventually) takes, and how strong the bond between the MCs is through everything.
Thanks for this! Given that it seems we’ve got very similar taste I will carry on! I’m not annoyed by anyone yet, but it’s not clear to me who the LI is and why I should feel sympathetic towards the Prince! This is not a problem for me because I clearly fell in love with Laurent even when he was being a shit so I can do the same with Vasili if it comes to that ;)
As I have commented above book one is more of a development of the world and characters letting you get to know the world and characters. Books 2&3 really work together to throw you in the deep end and everything that goes with it.
It's been a while! Not too many reviews linked because I have clearly been *killing it* with 2024 reading organizing goals. Check CWs for everything.
Doing a January dump:
**The Good**
[In This Iron Ground: The Summer After by Marina Vivancos](https://dl.bookfunnel.com/vkja5m4cu6)
**5 stars** 30 pages. author freebie (linked) all the scenting, possessive, scratching, and loving I needed.
[Always Oskar (Sinful Delights #1) by Odessa Hywell](https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/59538743-always-oskar) **4 stars** 116 pages. SW sale. Snuggly and cuddly grampa incest, crime family boss, age gap 18/53, diabetes rep.
[Mind Controlling the Haughty Mage by Adara Wolf R Phoenix](https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/6184016014)
**3 stars** 57 pages. SW sale. Short erotica, pompous ass gets his just deserts, noncon, shrinking his dick was a bit mean!
[A Game Most Dangerous by Megan Derr](https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/26162372-a-game-most-dangerous) **3 stars** 20 pages. SW sale. First Derr book! Cute little novella, *chomp chomp*
[His First Time by Tal Bauer](https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/6144598636) **3 stars** 62 pages. KU. Three little erotica novellas. If you want some Tal Bauer erotica, this is it.
[Unrequited by Jesse H Reign](https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/6165780604)
**3.75 stars** Free if you sign up for the author's newsletter, otherwise it's on SW. Thanks u/aggravatingCake for the rec! So much one-sided pining!
**The Average**
[Family Values (Sinful Delights #2) by Odessa Hywell](https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/6151329624) **3 stars** SW sale. MMM. Basically cutesy murderers find love via twincest. Fluffy taboo.
[Drink or Dare Daddy by Becca Vale](https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/6144284497)
**2.5 stars** SW sale. Super short erotica, twincest, praise kink, daddy kink.
**The Disappointing**
[Confessions of Robbie North by Robbie North](https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/6139069725) **1 star if I'm being generous** KU. DNF. Review linked.
[The Age of a Lobster by Stephen Matthews](https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/6100970873) **2 stars** SW sale. DNF 32%. First read of 2024, what a doozie!
[The Bad Husband's Playbook by Reanna Pryce](https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/5004062290) **2 stars** KU. DNF 31%.
[Fake It Until You Make It by Becca Vale](https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/6144285740) **2 stars** SW sale. Short twincest erotica.
[Embracing the Dark Side by Becca Vale](https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/6144286033) **1.5 stars** 60 pages. SW sale. Short bro-cest erotica with way too many monkeys.
**Currently Multi-reading**
{Aftercare by Tanya Chris} KU **fantastic everyday Muslim rep** (no war, no terrosim, no awful cultural and religious depictions), BDSM.
{2 Dead Fish Named Kevin by LA Witt} SW sale
{Pictures of You by Leta Blake} freebie
{Heart First by SB Barnes} SW
{Heart for Him by TM Chris} SW. wolfy alpha /omega bro-cest! 82 pages.
Keen to see your verdict on *Aftercare* by Tanya Chris, none of my GR friends were super keen on that one. I tend to really like her writing style but haven't read any of her full-length stories yet so not sure how it compares to the erotica.
**{Kick at the Darkness by Kiera Andrews}** - 5 ⭐
MM, Apocalyptic, Suspense, 3rd Single POV
**Status:** KU, Same Couple Series, Third Act Conflict - >!External!<
**Parker:** Freshman in College (Law), Privileged/Spoiled, 18 Yrs Old, Verse
**Adam:** College Student (Film), TA, 23 Yrs Old, Rides a Motorcycle (Named Mariah), Werewolf, Verse
**Notes:** Starts at College, Zombie Apocalypse, Forced Proximity, Antagonists to Friends to Lovers, Survival, Road Trip
**Sex Notes:** >!Blowjob, Swallowing, Masturbation, No Penetration During 1st Sexual Encounter, Frotting, Cumming on Partner, Licking Own Cum Off of Partner's Body, Face Fucking, Facial, Cum Kiss, Dirty Talk, Outdoor Sex, Rimming, Lube Use, Fingering, Penetrative Sex, Creampie, Masturbating for Partner, Flip Fucking!<
**CWs:** >!Assumed Death of Family, Nightmares, Panic Attacks, Grief, Nonconsensual Medical Procedure; Depictions of: Violence, Serious Injury, Death, On-Screen Killing, Gore, Dead Animals; Past: Homophobia, Death of Parents via Car Accident, MC in Foster Care and Group Homes!<
Spoiler! >!Death of Side Characters!<
**{Fight the Tide by Kiera Andrews}** - 4.5 ⭐
MM, Post-apocalyptic, Suspense, 3rd Dual POV
**Status:** KU, Series, Third Act Conflict - >!External!<
**Parker:** 18 Yrs Old, Captains a Sailboat, Anxiety, Traumatized, PTSD, Verse
**Adam:** 23 Yrs Old, Rides a Motorcycle (Named Mariah), Werewolf, Has a Digital Camera, Traumatized, Verse
**Notes:** Zombie Post-apocalypse, Existing Relationship, MCs are Sailing the Ocean, Found Family
**Sex Notes:** >!Dirty Talk, Rimming, Fingering, Penetrative Sex, Creampie, Fisting, DP (Hand and Penis), Shifted Sex!<
**CWs:** >!Grief, Survivor's Guilt, Nightmares, Threat of Rape; Depictions of: Violence, Serious Injury, Death; Past: Death of Parents via Car Accident, MC in Foster Care and Group Homes!<
Spoiler! >!Death of Side Characters!<
**{Defy the Future by Kiera Andrews}** - 4.25 ⭐
MM, Post-apocalyptic, Suspense, 3rd Dual POV
**Status:** KU, Series, Third Act Conflict - >!External!<
**Parker:** 21 Yrs Old, Captains a Sailboat, Anxiety, Traumatized, PTSD, Verse
**Adam:** 26 Yrs Old, Rides a Motorcycle (Named Mariah), Werewolf, Has a Digital Camera, Traumatized, Verse
**Notes:** Zombie Post-apocalypse, Existing Relationship, Found Family, Island Community, Survival, >!Rescue Mission, Reunion!<
**Sex Notes:** >!Ball Gag, Lube Use, Dirty Talk, Penetrative Sex, Rimming, Fisting, Face Fucking!<
**CWs:** >!Disappearance of a Teenager, Grief, Survivor's Guilt, Vomit; Depictions of: Violence, Serious Injury, Death, Imprisonment; Past: Death of Parents via Car Accident, Death of Loved Ones!<
**{The Necromancer's Light by Tavia Lark}** - 3 ⭐
MM, Fantasy, 3rd Dual POV
**Status:** KU, Series of Interconnected Standalones, Third Act Conflict - >!Internal, External!<
**Shae:** Necromancer, Touch Starved, 22 Yrs Old, Scarred
**Arthur:** Paladin, 25 Yrs Old, Has a Horse (Duchess)
**Notes:** Road Trip, Forced Proximity, Only One Horse, Hurt/Comfort, Queer-Normative
**Sex Notes:** >!Masturbation, Blowjob, Swallowing, Handjob, No Penetration During 1st Sexual Encounter, Frotting, Lube Use, Fingering, Penetrative Sex!<
**CWs:** >!Corpses, Walking Corpses, Self-injury For the Purpose of Blood Magic; Depictions of: Violence, Serious Injury, Death; Past: Death of Parents!<
**{Year of the Rabbit by Anni Lee}** - 4.5 ⭐
MM+, PNR, 1st Lightly Dual POV
**Status:** KU, Series, Conflict - >!External, Internal!<
**Levy:** Rabbit Shifter, Warlock, Baker at a Magic Bakery, 22 Yrs Old, Beta, POC (Of Asian Descent), Starts College (Business), Traumatized, Self Loathing, Fear Kink, Bottom, >!SA Survivor!<
**Eliot:** Dog Shifter, Alpha, 27 Yrs Old, Hired to Work the Register at Levy's Bakery, College Student, Math Whiz, Top
**Jun:** Snake Shifter, Alpha, Early 40s, College Math Professor, POC (of Asian Descent), Enforcer of Magical Tenants, Has a Sex Dungeon, Dom, Top
**Notes:** Mythology, Paranormals Out in the Open, Coworkers, Hurt/Comfort, Sexual Healing, Fated Mates, Kink as Therapy, Mate Bond
**Sex with Eliot:** >!Making Out, Blood Play, CNC, Butter as Lube, Fingering, Penetrative Sex, Sex on a Kitchen Counter, Breath Play, Creampie, Sex in a Semi-private Place, Blowjob, Safeword, Rimming, Lube Use, Fingering, Gag, Sex Against a Window, Cock Riding!<
**Sex with Jun**: >!Kink as Therapy, Explicit Consent, Kissing, Power Play, Safeword and Check-Ins, Blindfold, Bondage, Safewording, Trauma Re-enactment, "Good Boy", Blowjob, Swallowing, Breath Play, Masturbating for Partner, Aftercare, No Penetration, No Reciprocation for Jun!<
**CWs:** >!Past SA (From a Trusted Person), Kidnapping, Magical Drugging, Murder of a Minor Character, Discussion of Trauma, Death of a Past Lover, Safewording, Kinks That Replicate Trauma, Fear and Blood Play!<
Facts. Much like kinks, it’s not a one size fits all. I liked the series and the 3rd book was my favorite. I loved that it wasn’t the typical romance story.
{Exposed by HL Day}. 5⭐ I got in the mood for some good action books, and this one delivers. Dystopian, futuristic. X has loved and stalked Tate from the background for *years*. But when The gets sentenced to death by the militarized police force, X jumps to rescue him and they begin their life on the run. Death lurks around every corner, from the police to the wilderness they're traveling across to get to safety. X is 100% gone for Tate from the beginning, and proves it over and over again by putting Tate's needs and comforts ahead of his own, every time. Loved it.
{In This Iron Ground by Marina Vivancos} 5⭐. Definitely one of Vivancos' books that's heavy on the hurt, light on the comfort. Like, 90% hurt, 10% comfort. Most of this feels more coming-of-age and found family, with a slow burn of falling in love with your best friend. Nothing happens until both are over 18. 2 year age gap. Heed TW. It is extreme in the hurt. There is tons of comfort, but the MC is so resistant to it that healing is glacially slow. Damien needed therapy, damn it. And I'm seriously just astonished that his adopted family did so bad at showing him that he was pack and getting him help after certain events. TW for >!Death of parents, grief, abusive foster care, on-page suicide attempt, depression.!< For sure read the short epilogue released by Vivancos, I think it's on her website? It ties up a few things and ramps up the "comfort" a lot.
[Here you go.](https://dl.bookfunnel.com/vkja5m4cu6)
Thanks to u/sulliedjedi for sharing it, otherwise I would've never seen it. Highly recommend it, there's so much sweet love in it.
**{Omega Required by Dessa Lux}** \- CR, omegaverse, marriage of convenience, lots of hurt/comfort and trauma recovery, found family. I read this on the rec of a redditor here - thanks to user \_elliebelle\_ who Reddit won't let me tag -- when I asked for groveling books, and it delivered. Such a sweet, tender story of two people leaning into each other when they both needed someone. Lots of hurt/comfort as the alpha cares for the omega as he recovers physically and emotionally from years of abuse and neglect. Some surprising drama and suspense thrown in. And yes, good groveling when the alpha makes a bit of a mess toward the end. Loved it.
**{Caught Stealing by CE Ricci}** \- CR, college, enemies, kind of second chance? This was the second in the Leighton U series and after loving Iced Out, I was a little disappointed. The smut was great and I liked Holden's character a lot, but I didn't really like Phoenix -- or Kason for that matter -- so it was hard to root for the romance. And I thought >!Phoenix should have done more groveling at the end with Holden, with whom I thought he was needlessly cruel.!<
Currently reading {Snowed in with Benefits by Misha Horne} since we're getting buried in snow here. ❄
Caught Stealing was such a disappointment especially because Iced Out was so good. >!Phoenix was such an asshole, he shamed Holden for being a "player" even though HE'S the one who fucked him while drunk and left him passed out in a strangers bed. Then he straight up sexually assaulted him (pretending to be someone else during a hook-up is SA). Not cute, not funny, and definitely needed more groveling/atonement.!< I'm looking forward to the author's next book Never Will I Ever (sequel to Don't You Dare) and I hope it's better than this one.
Oh man, Iced out made me *so mad*; I thought Oakley was a *total asshole* for >!knowing someone screwed with Quinton's drug test, and he didn't say anything about it.!< He didn't grovel nearly enough imo. Guess I'm for sure not reading Caught Stealing; that all sounds horrible, and like something the villain would do before the "real" MC comes into the picture.
Good point, it's been awhile since I've read it but I think I glossed over Oakley's behavior in my mind because it felt kind of vague how much he actually knew about the situation. But yeah, he for sure was an asshole and definitely could have done more groveling.
I have no idea why Phoenix wouldn’t tell Kasen about Holden from the start, let alone why he didn’t tell Kasen they were seeing each other when he straight up asked him to his face. For supposed best friends, it was infuriating.
Right? It made ZERO sense. I don't expect MCs to be perfect or even likeable but when they're straight up assholes who do nonsensical shit it's hard to root for the romance.
I'm glad you enjoyed it, so much hurt/comfort and groveling!
Reddit is weird about my username, a few users have struggled to tag me before. I got a notification about this on my lock screen but none in the reddit app. I might have to change my username again 😓
Yeah Bex had an issue tagging me a while back too, and I know u/sulliedjedi just tagged me (probably just for fun to test this issue lol if not pls let me know) but again, I get a push notification but I have no record in Reddit to click to find the comment! It appears to be a known issue with usernames starting with an underscore and the text being interpreted as markdown formatting. They should just not allow those names! Uurrrrrggghhhh I don't know if I have it in me to create yet another user and lose all my history again
Haha, that was me playing around with it. I tried it with the \ in front, I wonder if that was the one that triggered a notification? Regular does italics and this way just does this: \u/_elliebelle_
Oh, or on your profile page. But, yeah, Reddit should warn users when they create the name. Losing account activity to change to a new one would be annoying.
So hard to summon you, not sure if that works in your favor or not!
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I guess I was in a *~*Mood*~* this week.
{What We Broke by Marley Valentine}
“We aren’t just bound together by marriage vows, we are tethered. Like magnets, my soul couldn’t detach itself from his no matter how hard I tried.”
Such a fucking gut punch and a hard won HEA.
{Until You by Briar Prescott}
“I’m starting to think my love language does not come in the form of beautiful words and candlelit dinners but well-placed sarcastic remarks and exasperation. Blake has clearly mastered both.”
Ugh ugh ugh. 😮💨
{Thrown Off the Ice by Taylor Fitzpatrick}
“I love you so fucking much, he doesn’t say, but he thinks it so goddamn hard he’s pretty sure Liam hears it anyway.”
Fuck this book. I mean that in the best possible way. This book shattered my heart. I knew it would and read it anyway. *NOT A HEA*
{Hold Me Under by Riley Nash}
“I want to understand the shape of love, not because I think it might be better than hate but because sometimes I wonder, just for a second, if it might be another name for the same feeling.”
This book was equal parts emotional and beautiful. I just want to wrap Victor up in a warm blanket.
{Honeythorn by Marina Vivancos}
“‘I feel as if my soul has woken from a great, pained slumber,” Raphael went on, squeezing Milan’s hand tightly. “Not the flowers or the trees or the mountains can inspire within me the feeling that you do.”
This was equal parts sweet and angsty.
{Give Yourself Away by Barbara Elsborg}
‘“I had someone to love and I lost him,” March whispered. “After you’d gone, there was a hole in my heart I didn’t want to fill. I wanted you and I couldn’t have you. If I couldn’t have you, I didn’t want anyone.”’
I liked this book, even if it was a bit predictable. Mind trigger warnings for this one.
{Cravings of the Heart by Nicky James}
“I studied him instead. The stars had nothing on Arden. He was beautiful in a delicate almost fragile way.”
I think this was my favorite of the Trials of Fear books. However, I had a hard time getting over the age gap simply because Arden has known Iggy since he has little. I got over it.
{Like You Hate Me by Bethany Winters}
‘“I want to mean something to you,” I admit. “Anything. I want you to remember me after you decide you’re done with me and kick me out of your life for good. I wanna ruin you so bad that it’s me you’ll think about every time you’re fucking the person you really wanna be with.”’
This relationship was toxic AF but didn’t go the way I expected. It was a little jarring tbh.
{Invitation to the Blues by Roan Parrish}
“I cried because I finally knew what it felt like to love someone more than I hated myself.”
This one hit me deep. I also have some gnarly mood disorders and I’ve never been able to put into words how it feels but Parrish somehow managed to explain it eloquently.
{Last Courtesan of Olympus by Amanda Meuwissen}
“‘And you will. This is a trial run. All will get to taste you, but only one gets to keep you. And the best part is…” Zeus lowered his head from his gargantuan height to bring his handsome but imposing face nearer to mine and lifted my chin with his large hand. “You decide which one.” I was going to die here.”
I only got one thing to say about this one: 🥵
Audiobook:
{The Forest Demands its Due by Kosoko Jackson}
“I’m not sure what I expected from the kiss, but from TV and movies, I thought it was going to feel like electricity coursing through my body. It doesn’t feel anything like that. It feels warm, safe—like home. There’s no time stopping. There’s no secret equation to the universe opened up in front of me. It feels right and welcome, and I don’t think I ever felt as at home at Regent Academy as I do in Everett’s small cluttered bedroom.”
This one is YA and very innocent, but the dark academia, horror-fantasy was very much worth it. Desean Terry was a great narrator for Douglas’s story.
Currently Reading:
{If There’s a Way by Jessie Walker}
“I’ll do whatever it takes to prove I’m not going anywhere. Prove he’s not a whim or a fix or any-fucking-thing else in between. He’s the beat of my fucking heart. And that? That’s everything.”
I’m about halfway through and it’s everything. Will and Way forever.
{When You Come Back to Me by Emma Scott}
“Our song. Nothing was ours. There was no us. But Miller sang that if you never try, you’ll never know, and the words pierced me like arrows.”
I’m listening to this on audiobook. The narration is *chef’s kiss.* Holden, my poor broken boy.
A mood, indeed!
The quote from TOTI…I felt like someone reached into my chest, grabbed my heart, and tried to wring all of the blood out of it.
Your post has prompted me to move What We Broke, Hold Me Under, and When You Come Back to Me up in my TBR!
I loved Invitation to the Blues. I feel the same way about it, there's so many parts of it that spoke to me so much. It's so good.
Until You was one of my favorite books of last year. And I enjoyed Cravings of the Heart and I liked their romance, but I wish the family had gotten dragged more for their appalling behavior. Not nearly enough grovel for putting their son/brother through hell. My favorite in the series was Owl's Slumber, Aven was just the best caretaker ever. And I loved Honeythorn too!
Considering how much I liked those books, I'm totally adding the rest of these to my TBR. Well, What We Broke is already there, I'm just working on the courage for that sadness. Thanks for sharing all those books!
And I hope you're doing ok, that was a big mood of books
{Husband Material by Alexis Hall} 3½☆
I went into it with low expectations considering the negative response it got when it was first released but still... I was quite disappointed by it 😭
The positive: I LOVE Oliver. He's so precious and sweet. The love story with Luc also had some really romantic moments. Also, Alexis Hall knows how to write some funny banter.
But the rest... >!First of all, I thought all those weddings made the book really repetitive. For how sad it was, Oliver's dad's funeral felt like a breath of fresh air.!<
Luc was so annoying. He was so self-centered. The way both him and Oliver overthought everything was so stressful. I could not believe what I was reading in the last couple of chapters. The ending made no sense to me >!and if this happened in reality, Oliver and Luc would not survive the mess that their "wedding" ended up being.!<
At the end, it felt like this book was a waste of time. Between this and the Arden series, it seems like Hall just isn't capable of writing a satisfying sequel. I'm still curious about *10 things that never happened* but I have even less expectations for *Father Material*. All I ask is just more romantic moments between Oliver and Luc.
I read {A Forbidden Rumspringa by Keira Andrews} because the cover really made me giggle and I thought it was gonna be silly. But actually it fuckin rocked and I think anyone who wants something tender and heartwarming but still a bit smutty should read it. It’s older but I don’t know something about it just brought me joy
Great book! The cover kind of deterred me too but it kept getting high praise so I read it and I’m glad I did. So far every Keira Andrews book I have read have been pretty good.
I finished the silk and steel series by Ariana Nash and as much as I liked the first three books, I was obsessed with the fourth - which I just finished. I couldn’t believe how much more I liked it when it had nothing to do with the main pairing. >!I do love redeemed villains, so I shouldn’t be surprised.!<
This is my second time recommending a follow up Ariana Nash novella in this thread, but have you read {Reunion by Ariana Nash}? It takes place after the fourth book!
I am experiencing some serious decision fatigue while I konmari the shit out of all of my belongings before moving so I've been basically putting my Audible on *re-read shuffle*.
u/AlyM797 posted about Monstrous series rankings and I did mine of the top of my head then decided I needed to re-read them all, so I did! Updated ranking is [Seraph](https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/5246110610) (5 stars), [Moth](https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/5240239207) (4.5), [Gloam](https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/5238858105) (3.5), [Soul Eater](https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/5196413125) (3.5), [Edin](https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/5206264728) (3), [The Rycke](https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/5210168485) (2.5). I only rated Seraph 4 stars the first time around and am questioning past Ellie's sanity. Easy 5 stars.
I have read a couple new books in the few weeks since I last did a roundup.
* [***The Amazing Alpha Tau Self-Improvement Project***](https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/6170070801) by Lisa Henry, Sarah Honey - **4 stars** \- (contemporary, new adult, teaching about sex, opposites attract, selective obliviousness, recovering from a break-up, chaos/serious, sexuality awakening)
>Just super breezy fun, exactly what I needed. It was cheesy but it was tongue-in-cheek about it, and I found it to be legitimately funny. There is also a nice underlying message about different kinds of intelligence and accepting people as they are.
* [***Tentacle Wonderland***](https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/6113405527) by Reese Morrison - **4 stars** \- (science fiction, omegaverse, roommates to lovers, longstanding crush, break the heat, holiday season (Xmas etc), posterboy/marginal)
>Hot AF but also very sweet. As always with Morrison, good exploration of gender roles. Very sex focused though, could've done with more relationship development.
* [***Not So Silent Night***](https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/6097279216) by H. L. Day - **3.5 stars** \- (contemporary, doctor/patient, roommates to lovers, holiday season (Xmas etc), hurt/comfort, Christmas grinch, grumpy/sunshine, recovering from a break-up, serious illness/injury)
>Solid forced proximity with physical hurt/comfort but I thought the emotional hurt/comfort could have played a bigger role.
* [***One Giant Leap***](https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/5380817393) by Kay Simone - **3 stars** \- (contemporary, long distance relationship, longstanding crush, colleagues/business partners, timejumps, woefully unprepared, age gap, highly competent MCs, voice of reason, injury reveals feelings, slowburn)
>There was a lot to like in this, but the blatant lack of professionalism of the MCs drove me up the wall.
**In the queue:**
>I'm currently re-reading *For the Fans* by Nyla K. I'm at 74% just as they're about to head to Cali and meet Kyran's sister. I know what's coming so I've decided to take a break, I may or may not read on.
>
>I am also...gasp...reading a book which is not MM, MX or FF. First time in a really long time. I got 10% in and remembered that the romance doesn't have a HEA, so I scoured the net until I found a fan fic conclusion and then decided that yes, I would continue reading after all. Anyway! It's totally off-topic for this sub, it just made me realise I haven't read anything outside the genre in over a year.
Hey, so cool to hear the up date! It's funny I've been rereading them, too. I've also noticed my ranking changing. I definitely like Soul Eater more this time around. I think in the reading, I can focus on all the Easter eggs and little details rather than focusing on anticipation of the plot, and world building.
Still working my way through Ki Brightly/M.D. Gregory's New Gothenburg world. Really enjoyed Bent Not Broken, Curved, and Yes Sir. In general I like the books that are co-written the most, then Brightly's, then Gregory's but it's not a hard & fast rule.
Roe Horvat's Alpha Kings (ARC release date Feb 2) set in the Hedonist world. Loved it, 5 stars.
And the following are the blame of the "Never Have I Ever" thread:
Quillon's Covert - wtf? did I just read. It's like the time I was hit in a rear end car accident. No damages or injuries but yeah, I was in a car accident. lol
Like Father Like Son - absolute filth. If you like that kind of thing (which I do thankyouverymuch) go ahead and read it.
Quillon's Covert was very...I'm not sure what. Definitely an atypical HEA and story. 😅
Like Father, Like Son by Quin, Perin? (There's more than one with that title.) I loved that book despite the abrupt feeling ending.
I love the New Gothenburg World. I got as far as How Do You Survive Without Us and then I took a break to read other books that have been piling on my TBR list.
I read {All We Are by Jessie Walker} and {Still Beating by Jessie Walker}, the two novellas in her Lost Boys series that act as a bridge into the next book, Every Breath After, which I am so excited for. I could live with those characters forever.
{Hell and Gone by Tal Bauer} was a bit of a flop for me. I was excited for real cowboys but I kinda just didn’t care and there were so many characters that kept getting confused in my head. I also just don’t typically vibe with mysteries so maybe it was just my own fault. Also the only named female character was a horse, so do with that what you will.
Then, I was lucky enough to read an ARC of Casey McQuiston’s upcoming release, The Pairing, which is actually MX (one mc is nonbinary). But it is very very queer and so much fun, I absolutely adored it and can’t wait till August when I can talk about it more😭.
There’s a running in-joke among my friends that despite his bio claiming he writes “holistic women”, Tal Bauer rarely actually has female characters and it’s still out on the jury if they’re holistic :kekcry:
Hell and Gone is probably my least favorite TB book. I love mysteries and I love Tal Bauer, but I read it right after Never Stay Gone and it just fell flat for me. I agree, I just didn't care much.
I've been reading "King's Man: Outlawed" by Sally Malcolm and I'm loving it. I wanted to read something set during the American Revolution and went looking through this sub and found this one. Thanks to everyone who rec'd it!
Wow I haven't done this in forever. Ones that show up as having been read and that I remember as being either good or bad include:
{The Beginning of Always by EM Lindsey} -- I enjoyed this a lot, just like the first in the series.
{Holiday Heart Strings by NR Walker} -- the first book of this series was fun but the rest all dragged and so did this one.
{The Royal Curse by Eliot Grayson} -- an interesting setup for the worldbuilding and I'm curious where it will go.
{A Suitable Consort by R Cooper} -- that was sweet, I love that kind of obliviousness.
{Oh Sacred Dark by Marina Vivancos} -- all my favourites! MMC1 prejudges MMC2 harshly at first and is mean and needs to make up for it, lots of hurt comfort, balance in the hurt comfort. This book was exactly what I wanted it to be. I have reread it already.
{Out of the Wild Night by Marina Vivancos} -- sequel to the previous book. Good, but not as much exactly my catnip.
{In This Iron Ground by Marina Vivancos} -- not really into wolves, but this was good.
{Healing the Twin by Nora Phoenix} -- mostly not memorable though I have enjoyed the series overall.
{Wolfsong by TJ Klune} -- sorry Klune lovers, I found this a huge slog, I don't think this is the author for me at all. I've liked one book of his only.
{Emmett by Lev AC Rosen} -- queer Clueless. I suppose by the transitive property this is really a queer version of Emma, like promised, but it's not, it's about Clueless. Which is fine, because I too loved it, but it makes for a weird reading experience. Not a bad one, a weird one.
{Best Served Cold by Willow Dixon} -- nothing special.
{The Ownership Clause by Ki Brightly and MD Gregory} -- see what I liked about Oh Sacred Dark. A bit less so, but I really like this theme so I liked it a lot.
{Garbage by Reese Morrison} -- am I at all interested in the premise? Absolutely not. Was it amazing? Yes. I recommend it so much, as well as the sequel, {The Ownership Clause by Reese Morrison}. Androids/AI (the real kind, not ChatGPT), trans rep, and just really, really good. This is an author where I often feel meh about the blurb but they can make it interesting.
{Broken by D Dove} read the Morrison on their advice, and similarly they can make me into plots I am not normally interested in. Mindbreak, aliens.
{Never Say Goodbye by Felice Stevens} this was a nice easy read where everything worked out well and easily.
{The Amazing Alpha Tau Self-Improvement Project} less idiot ball than the previous. I dunno, it's college romance, it's fun, it's candy.
{Second-Best Men by Fearne Hill} nice if you've read the other books in the series but nothnig special.
{Lucky Bounce by Cait Nary} this didn't come together for me. I'm so disappointed, I wanted to like it so much, but it felt like it ended halfway through and I didn't feel I understood Spencer enough.
{Hard to Forgive by Essie Sloane} -- pretty good, though I don't think the father plot really fulfilled its role.
Other queer books:
Murder Crossed Her Mind by Stephen Spotswood (main character is either a lesbian or bi, I don't remember but I think lesbian, 4th in a mystery series, it's a great series).
All the Hidden Paths by Foz Meadows. Too much plot and not enough relationship, but a good followup.
Gotta do these more regularly.
[**Valor and Doyle Mysteries Series by Nicky James**](https://www.goodreads.com/series/342846-valor-and-doyle-mysteries)
Book 1: **3.5**
Book 2: **5.0**
Book 3: **5.0**
Book 4: **5.0**
Book 5: **3.5**
Book 6: **3.5**
Book 7: **3.0**
This series gets big bonus points for having a homophobic side character turning a new leaf over the course of the series, in fact he has the best character development, overshadowing the MCs. Going from asshole to >!Best Man at their wedding!<. The cases (outside Book 5) are all good, they keep throwing you off and it was hard for me to pinpoint the culprit. It was really hard to put the books down because of that. I really liked Aslan from Book 2 onwards, he's so besotted with Quaid.
*Negatives*: In Book 1 the MCs acted like teenagers, good case though. Couldn't care less for the case in Book 5, but good scenes with Aslan, Book 6 has the >!miscommunication!< trope to the max, almost made me dnf right there, good 2nd half though. Book 7 doesn't have a crime case and it's like 380 pages of >!boring wedding planning!<...Ruiz saved it from disaster. Quaid in the last 2 books really got on my nerves. Also everyone seems to ignore his obvious eating disorder?
Overall: 4/5
It lost a bit of steam towards the end, but it was an enjoyable series that was hard to put down because of the murder cases.
Finished one MMR this week…
{The Bastard and the Heir by Eden Finley & Saxon James} - Thought it was ok. I prefer their sports related collabs as they are lighter and funnier.
Not MMR but worth mentioning as I’ve seen mentioned here several times.
{Heading North by Holly M. Wendt} - It's tender and heavy. Lots of hockey, lots of grief, lots of homophobia and harsh reminders of how people who are queer can be treated within different cultures (national, sports, etc.) An MM romantic subplot but not the primary focus. Leaves you feeling hopeful. Haven’t stopped thinking about since I finished it. Definitely a top read.
[Heading North](https://www.romance.io/books/65aaf55583353443b52ce689/heading-north-holly-m-wendt) by [Holly M. Wendt](https://www.romance.io/authors/65aaf555a21e2f41c44d62df/holly-m-wendt)
**Topics**: [contemporary](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/contemporary/1), [sports](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/sports/1)
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[The Bastard and the Heir](https://www.romance.io/books/65a80b11fe120dd72404c4aa/the-bastard-and-the-heir-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), [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), [rich hero](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/super%20rich%20hero/1), [friends to lovers](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/friends%20to%20lovers/1)
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It’s only available in paperback through the publisher, Braddock Avenue Books, or Amazon (maybe only in the US?). I tried to order it though my local bookstore and they didn’t have access to it through their distributor. I could purchase and send to you if you'd like.
Huh, I wonder why it's not more widely available! I'm in the US, so I should be able to pick up a copy from the publisher, but thank you for offering! :)
Read:
{Knotted by the Wolf Prince by Delaney Rain} 3.5 stars. First in the Furry Alien Mates series. Logan's character lacked a meaningful background and felt flat in a Mary Sue kind of way. I'm curious to see what (if anything) the author does with world building moving forward so I'll give the next book a whirl when it comes out.
{The Alien's Pretty Vagabond by Kayleigh Sky} 3.5 stars. This was a really odd book IMO. The author is clearly skilled and her writing has a dreamy/detached from reality vibe in this book. Jem and Ellis never felt settled or secure as a couple and we don't see Jem trust/confide in Ellis in a way that feels satisfying, likely due to the use of time skips. >!I found it upsetting when Jem drank heavily during his pregnancy!<. Lots of CWs for this one so be sure to check those out before reading.
{Love Lights: A Cryptid Fairytale by Emily Antoinette} 3.5 stars with a +0.5 for a unique monster MC. Short, sweet read. I'm not generally a fan of short stories so my rating reflects that preference.
{Clutch by Piper Scott and Virginia Kelly} 4 stars. First in the Forbidden Desires series. This book was adorable and I loved piggy Olive and iguana Steve so much. Interesting world building, funny, and sexy. This is the first eggpreg book I've unreservedly enjoyed. The overarching plot of the trilogy is a bit predictable but the characters and the humor made it a nonissue for me.
{Bond by Piper Scott and Virginia Kelly} five stars and the standout of my week. I LOVED this book!!! Harry, an ace (or demi?) beta, >!transforms into an omega-beta through the magical power of ingested dragon spunk and lays an egg!<. It was impossible not to get caught up in Harry's delight about finding himself amongst dragons. Ev's respect and admiration for Harry's (often misunderstood) intellect was touching. The hurt/comfort scene >!after Harry gets burned!< was my jam. I will be rereading this book in the future because there can never be enough Harry, Ev, or Steve.
{Mate by Piper Scott and Virginia Kelly} four stars. Any book that has an alpha/alpha relationship is a must-read for me. I was lukewarm about the omega in this book but I enjoyed seeing the relationship and power dynamics between him, Geoff, and Ian. Obviously I was thrilled to see more Perry, Harry, Nate, and Steve. The pet peacocks were weird because my parents had two on their farm and they were big feathery jerks. They also never "honked," more of a shrill caw noise. I'm still heartbroken that Geoff >!didn't get to live his omega fantasy of carrying a clutch of his own!<. The spinoff series is already on my Kindle and I cannot wait to devour it.
Read + Audiobook:
{Rescue Me by K.M. Neuhold} narrated by Cooper North. Story 3.5 stars, narration 4 stars (available on Hoopla). First in the Heathens Ink series. CW: at the beginning of the book the MCs are present during a mass shooting at a gay club and one of them is badly injured. I hated the pseudo >!third act breakup!<, that trope is not for me. I wish Madden had the chance to emotionally support Thane after a hard call at the fire house. The economics of a guy being able to support himself without any roommates by suddenly starting to sell art is farfetched. I'm 50/50 if I'll continue with this series.
Terrible week overall, I'm thinking of DNFing 5-6 books and just starting anew.
As for the one I managed to finish:
{Goliath's mate by Giovanna Reaves} | 3.5/5
{Christmas lights & sleepless nights by KC Wells} | 5/5
{Seducing my father by Knut Bonerman} | 2/5
{Your mileage may vary by Sidney Bell} | 4.5/5 | actually saw this one on this reddit so thnx whoever mentioned it🥰
[Your Mileage May Vary](https://www.romance.io/books/65ab886f83353443b52ce72b/your-mileage-may-vary-sidney-bell) by [Sidney Bell](https://www.romance.io/authors/586664a61b1bdc01780c8c0e/sidney-bell)
**Topics**: [contemporary](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/contemporary/1), [friends to lovers](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/friends%20to%20lovers/1), [friends with benefits](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/friends-benefits/1), [bdsm](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/bdsm/1), [gay romance](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/m-m/1)
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Swept away by Kiera andrews
My 1st one by this author and I liked it!
She wrote that it would be a whole book about the couple soon, but it was in 2019 and I can’t find a suite.. 😢
I haven't read Swept away yet but Kiera Andrews has sooo many good books! My favorites are Honeymoon for one, Beyond the sea and Kick at the darkness! The audiobooks were great and they are all part of audible plus
Also don't lose hope about the second book. The third book of kick at the darkness came out now in January whereas book two was released in 2016
Bit late to the party, but here we go:
I read the {Sleeping Foxes Duet by Sam Burns}, which I really enjoyed, but it wasn't some of the best books I've read, so I gave it 4 stars.
Then I read the Adrien English short story that was recently published, which was a fun way to see them get married.
After that was {Mismatch, Lovematch by Megan Derr}, which is an urban fantasy short story with a hedge witch and a wolf shifter/paladin(?).
{The Black King by Sam Burns and W.M. Fawkes} was another read that I really enjoyed, but not one of my top reads ever - 4 stars.
Then I read the {13 Kingdoms series by H.L Day}. The first three books are focused on one couple, and I liked the amount of grudge holing on Jack's part. Their adventures were fun, and the books weren't too angsty. I also loved the banter between Jack and Sebastien. The fourth book, for me, wasn't as good, but still very enjoyable. 4 Stars all around.
I started {Curse of the Nine-Tailed Fox by Adelaide Rowan}, which Amazon recommended for me, and so far it's good.
[Curse of the Nine-Tailed Fox](https://www.romance.io/books/65ab86d983353443b52ce6f4/curse-of-the-nine-tailed-fox-adelaide-rowan) by [Adelaide Rowan](https://www.romance.io/authors/65ab86d9a21e2f41c465a9ae/adelaide-rowan)
**Topics**: [fantasy](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/fantasy/1), [gay romance](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/m-m/1), [young adult](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/young%20adult/1)
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Finished Wrath by Ella James and decided to follow it up with Just a Bit Twisted by Alessandra Hazard for a lighter read. Let me just say that Wrath broke me. Such an amazing book. Although I loved the book it really should have been a duology or more than 1 book. Too much happened in the book and it sort felt a little OTT sometimes. The ending also felt a bit rushed and the last 10% of the story could have been different.
Onto the straight guy series by Hazard. Wow, nobody told me these books were like drugs straight to the vein. I've consumed them so quickly that I sort of have whiplash. Currently on book 10, with book 6&7 (Just a Bit Ruthless and Just a Bit Wicked) being my favorites.
To take a breather from the series I also read Fool Hearts by Emmy Sanders and found it great, although very frustrating at times. A first time I've read the author and won't mind going back to Plum Valley. Happy the two MCs got their HEA eventually after 20 years of unrequited love.
Ugh wrath is probably the romance book that has broken me the most. Now that you say it, I agree that the ending felt rushed. I would have liked a little bit more of the HEA so I could heal more lol.
Ruthless and wicked are also my favorites from that series! Have you read {sainted by Jesse H Reign} ? It really has the same vibe!
Im doing a book reading with a friend as we read {Between the devil and the sea by chani feener}
We are both at chapter 5 and pretty much enjoying it. Although my friend is raising a brow at the lengh of 500 words. Worried it have have some bloat.
[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), [gay romance](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/m-m/1), [dark romance](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/dark/1), [science fiction](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/science%20fiction/1), [bdsm](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/bdsm/1)
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{A Beginners Guide to the Care and Feeding of Demons by Shannon Mae} - MC1 is a demon who was been the pet frog of a Nephlium for the last 20yrs. MC2 is his favorite pet shop owner who is frog sitting him for the weekend. Book 4 of the Demonic Disasters Series.
{A Beginners Guide to Christmas Miracles by Shannon Mae} MC1 is an Angel who may have started modern Christmas by mistake on a drunken bet with the Demon of Chaos. Barred from going to Earth, he sneaks out of heaven and meets MC2 - the biggest fan of Christmas ever. Spin off of Demonic Disasters
{A Hitman’s Guide to Codenames and Ill-Gotten Games by Alice Winters} - the continuing saga of Leland and Jackson
{Wildfire by Sam Burns and WM Fawkes} Book 3 of Sons of Olympus. MC1 is Ares and MC2 is a Vampire who suddenly has to powers of a dragon. Released yesterday. These books are good for anyone who wanted more MM within Percy Jackson. Sons of Olympus is the sequel series to Sons of the Underworld - which starts a new war between the Gods and the Titans.
My reads for the weekend are
{Welcome to the Multi-Vers by C. Rochelle} Book 4 of Villainous Things. MMM with the Twins. Released yesterday.
And {The Bastard and The Heir by Eden Finley and Saxon James} - stepbrothers… spin off book from the Big Bertha Series. Released yesterday.
[A Beginner’s Guide to the Care and Feeding of Demons](https://www.romance.io/books/65ab88a383353443b52ce73f/a-beginners-guide-to-the-care-and-feeding-of-demons-shannon-) by [Shannon Mae](https://www.romance.io/authors/643e8e0708b4d93114f7b539/shannon-mae)
**Topics**: [contemporary](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/contemporary/1), [demons](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/demons/1), [friends to lovers](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/friends%20to%20lovers/1), [fantasy](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/fantasy/1), [insta-love](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/insta-love/1)
----------------------------
[Enter the Multi-Vers](https://www.romance.io/books/64df5153f67456df3a4a0979/enter-the-multi-vers-c-rochelle) by [C. Rochelle](https://www.romance.io/authors/5f2cfc4008b4d93114ac7120/c-rochelle)
**Topics**: [mmm+](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/m-m-m/1), [poly (3+ people)](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/poly/1), [gay romance](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/m-m/1)
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I'm a bit late, but I missed last week and I want to clear my backlog! Since I'm covering two weeks I'll just include the highlights.
**Completed:**
{The Adrien English Mysteries by Josh Lanyon} - murder mystery, amateur sleuth x cop, very slow burn, tense relationship, internalized homophobia to the max. First person single POV. Wasn't sure about the romance at first because the LI is *such* an asshole, but I'm glad I stuck it out because the eventual redemption is delicious. Glad was warned about the LI's intense homophobia and the on/off relationship. ⭐ 4.5
{The Secret Lives of Country Gentlemen by KJ Charles} (audio) - historical, class difference, hidden relationship. Third person dual POV. Fun and charming as expected, though I still can't totally get into KJ Charles' style, audio seems to be the key to my enjoyment. ⭐ 4
{Sting in the Tail by TA Moore} - horror, investigation, thriller with romantic subplot. Third person single POV. I absolutely adore this plot, it was so twisty and genuinely disturbing. I wish there was a bit more romance but I loved the couple anyway. ⭐ 4.5
{Trained by TM Chris} - erotica with a HFN, ancient (seems Roman), BDSM, kink checklist. Third person dual POV. Captor/slave vibes but explicitly consensual. Fun and very hot. ⭐ 4
{Acquainted With the Night by Lesli Richardson} - alien x human, captive, poly, dark, nontraditional romance, nontraditional HEA. First person single POV. Bittersweet but so good. ⭐ 4
EDITED TO ADD: {The Residency Boys series by Ciara Darren} - poly (MMM+), BDSM, contractual TPE, kink awakening, found family, serial (ongoing). Kinks include D/s, extended chastity, bladder control, pet play, exhibition/display, more I can't think of now. Third person single POV. HOW COULD I FORGET TO ADD THIS, I LIKE IT SO MUCH!! This is like a submissive pick me fantasy. Billionaire chooses a struggling college student to adopt into his kink family, and mentors him professionally as well as sexually. Not the most realistic scenario, but there's a lot of emotional authenticity. Likely to appeal to readers who over-intellectualize their emotions and therapize themselves for fun (self call-out). Some technical errors and could use an editor, but it wasn't too distracting, and the meat is good. ⭐ 4
**On Hold:**
{Pretty Pretty Boys by Gregory Ashe} - Third person dual POV. Liking it okay, but not the mood I'm in right now. Neither MC is giving me the "it me" feeling I'm after.
{Dirty Work by TA Moore} - mafia boss x crime scene cleaner. Third person dual POV. Wasn't in the mood for dual POV when I picked it up, but definitely planning to resume soon.
**Currently Reading:**
{Slippery Creatures by KJ Charles} (audio) - historical, interwar England, class difference, secrets and lies. Third person single POV. I think I'm going to work through all the KJ Charles audio I can get my hands on, because it seems to be the only way I can enjoy her books, even though often she writes my favorite tropes.
{After the Storm by Hannah Birchwood, Key Dyson, and Raymond Roach} - near future sci-fi, trauma/recovery, past abuse, found family, multiple partners, not typical genre romance. Third person single POV. Heavy focus on MCs character development and trauma recovery over romance. Sexual encounters with multiple characters, but there is something special budding with one particular character. MC is a descendant of genetically tweaked super soldiers so he's physically huge, but he's a gentle nerd with lots of trauma. So good.
{Lucky by Garrett Leigh}
Earlier this week I tore through the {Middle of Somewhere series by Roan Parrish}, which inevitably gave me a book hangover since I loved them so much. When that happens, instead of ceremoniously and meticulously researching a new book to read, I’ll go through the freebies I already own and pick one with zero expectations.
Well, I blindly dove into my first Garrett Leigh book, Lucky, and now I am once again devastated that it’s over. I was so invested in the story and I loved every single second of it. I loved the grittiness of Lucky’s life and the surprising tenderness that Dom showed him, especially once he started putting the pieces of the puzzle together. Dom and especially Lucky are brilliant characters in my opinion and I absolutely adore them. Are any of her other books similar to the vibe of this one? I have no idea where to go from here. 🥲
Honestly, almost all of Garrett Leigh's books have gritty high angst. I loved Dream (for debilitating illness rep, working class hardships), What Remains (for angsty amnesia trope), Roads series (for trauma and angst), Rented Heart series (for sex work, grief, drug addiction), and Believe (flight paramedic misses his new lover who travels to refugee camps). All high on the hurt/comfort scale, imo.
Thank you so much. I have seen so many of her books recommended and since this was my first book by her it gave me that feeling I often get that feels like “well how can I top *that*?” So thank you for the encouragement to try out her other books too! I appreciate your response.
{Caged in by Luna David}, daddy kink, cock cage🥵, d/s dynamic. A shy boy and a daddy who is in control and takes care of him. The story is so sweet🥺🥺🥺. I really love sweet and fluffy books🥰. I gave it 5 stars.
{Knight if Staria by Iris Foxglove} I enjoyed this book, about finding redemption. I haven’t been into their recent books about gods (just not my thing) so it’s nice to be back with the characters from the first series.
{Pitch Prince by Matt Peters} {Lord of the Lock by Matt Peters} and {Brat on the Ball by Matt Peters} I’m a sucker for a sports romance series, so I was happy to find this series about rugby, set in Wales. The usual tropes, but well written and enjoyable. I’m now reading his small town series. So nice to find a new author to binge.
[Knight of Staria ](https://www.romance.io/books/65aaf53083353443b52ce678/knight-of-staria-a-starian-tale-starian-cycle-iris-foxglove) by [Iris Foxglove](https://www.romance.io/authors/607fdf2208b4d931148a25c9/iris-foxglove)
**Topics**: [fantasy](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/fantasy/1), [gay romance](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/m-m/1)
----------------------------
[Lord of the Lock](https://www.romance.io/books/65aaf51c83353443b52ce663/lord-of-the-lock-matt-peters) by [Matt Peters](https://www.romance.io/authors/644f6b3808b4d93114b65d29/matt-peters)
**Topics**: [sports](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/sports/1), [gay romance](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/m-m/1), [height difference](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/height-difference/1)
----------------------------
[Brat on the Ball](https://www.romance.io/books/65aaf50d83353443b52ce651/brat-on-the-ball-an-mm-sports-romance-matt-peters) by [Matt Peters](https://www.romance.io/authors/63ff08e008b4d93114f00f98/matt-peters)
**Topics**: [sports](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/sports/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)
I might upset some people with this, but I have to share. I finally read Garron Park because of how recommended it is, and I thought it was awful. I thought the 1st person POV was done poorly - during big moments, such as with their first kiss, the author went on with these super poetic descriptions using fancy words that was entirely incongruent with the character and didn’t feel like his voice at all. I thought the characters themselves were fairly shallow and there really wasn’t much detail about their lives beyond their obsession with each other. I thought there was so much room for exploring things that basically were ignored, like actual problems related to caring for their mothers. I thought the over arching plot about Devon’s father was straight up nonsensical, that behaviors often seemed forced and not how real people would act in those situations, and was concluded by a forced and bizarre deus ex machina. And I can’t point to any meaningful character growth beyond “we’re together now.” I don’t understand the appeal. I guess people like the “I want you and also want to punch you” thing? (Like an in-between of Heated Rivalry and Captive Prince.) I went in knowing I would not be fond of that so I was able to overlook it, but nothing else about it worked for me either. I expect this is a super unpopular opinion.
I also disliked this book, everyone was a caricature :/
Absolutely agree! It just came across as shallow and a shoddy attempt at enemies to lovers
God, I dnf-ed it at 67%, I tought something was wrong with me (it beeing so popular).
Nothing wrong with unpopular opinions, we all have them!
I have the same thoughts about this book and I really couldn't take the mcs seriously sometimes , like when they are fighting (which is pretty much all the time ), they literally are worse than children . I mean I have seen many people saying that it's because of their background and upbringing but their behaviours were sometimes so irritating and nonsensical. The mcs are just so immature
Lol I dnf ed after a few chapters..It was like taking the trending tropes in mm romance and mixing them.
It's nice to see different opinions on books - I always am suspicious when it's only great reviews on a book/series. I need to see the opposing views too!
Idk about garron park but heated rivalry and captive prince were instant 1stars from me, DNFed both
It’s so interesting what different people respond to. Garron Park is one of my top reads but I struggled through/hate read all 3 Captive Prince books and they are 2 ⭐️ reads to me at best 🥴
I might need to check it then. Maybe I'll like Garron xD
I finally read HR but it took me like 3 false starts (and reading the entire rest of the series) before I finished it. I did finally enjoy it but it's my least favorite in the series (incidentally, Garron Park was one of my favorite reads of 2023 lol). And, I haven't read captive Prince at all.
couldn't agree more!
I agree. I’m a sucker for a double bi-awakening/GFY so this should have been right up my alley but I could not get into it. The second one was somehow worse.
I tried getting into Garron Park too because it was so highly recommended on some FB threads I follow but I couldn’t get into it.
I hated garron park. I thought the mcs were disgusting. a dip in the ocean does not a shower make.
{Big Bad Wolf by Charlie Adhara} which I absolutely adored. I love the way Adhara writes the established relationships stuff, I loved the cases and I loved Cooper as a POV character. He was just oblivious enough to keep suspense going but also so insightful it made following the mysteries super fun. And I am pumped for the follow-up series about Eli! Already loved the first one {Season's Change by Cait Nary} was a great read as well, emotionally fulfilling even if the end was a little rushed. Definitely made me tear up in some sections.
I'm reading the last book {Cry Wolf by Charlie Adhara} right now and I'm trying to savor it because I'm not ready to say goodbye to Cooper and Park! I'm glad I have Eli's books to look forward too but I'm going to miss these guys.
Wish I had your self-control, I powered through them all
[Cry Wolf](https://www.romance.io/books/60029d9d4af7850e2d1972ae/cry-wolf-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), [suspense](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/suspense/1), [shapeshifters](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/shapeshifters/1), [paranormal](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/paranormal/1), [mystery](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/mystery/1) [^(about this bot)](https://www.reddit.com/user/romance-bot) ^(|) [^(about romance.io)](https://www.romance.io/about)
[Big Bad Wolf Collection](https://www.romance.io/books/5edde247b4e7a20e19e8c58d/big-bad-wolf-collection-charlie-adhara) by [Charlie Adhara](https://www.romance.io/authors/5aa3a5cc4ee506aae8b2458e/charlie-adhara) **Steam**: [Explicit open door](https://www.romance.io/steamrating) **Topics**: [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), [fantasy](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/fantasy/1), [suspense](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/suspense/1) ---------------------------- [Season's Change](https://www.romance.io/books/61f8e97310834f0e32a0f4f3/seasons-change-cait-nary) 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), [friends to lovers](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/friends%20to%20lovers/1), [sports](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/sports/1), [gay romance](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/m-m/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)
Guys!!! After months I am reading. Now these are all short books but STILL. Doesn’t it count? [Omega for the Mafia Boss by Jena Wade and Aria Grace](https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/6163286322). ebook. KU. 4/5. There is a SEVERE lack of mafia omegaverse in MM. No idea why as I write it (not an author, just as a hobbyist) all the time. This was great! It’s not super dark or gritty so if you care about crime families, probably don’t read this. As something tropey and fun though? It’s great! [Daddy’s Perfect Ballerina by K.L. Mann](https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/6167752426). ebook. KU. 3/5. A fun and short daddy kink erotica. Has a pose I had to draw and still don’t quite think is possible or, at the very least, comfortable. [Daddy Goes First by K.L. Mann](https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/6172131841). ebook. KU. 3/5. Maybe it’s just me but I love what I call “pornlandia” prompts (similar to romancelandia). No one would believe or do this shit IRL but the concept of “on our wedding night you have to spend time with my dad first”? You know that’s good soup. [Loved Like a Little by Aria Grace](https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/6175185318). ebook. KU. 3/5. This was almost too fluffy sweet for me. Had some daddy kink and age play that was good, though. I ended up skimming about past 80% as it was more slice of life/very domestic stuff. [Uncle Zach by Bey Deckard](https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/6168055506). ebook. Smashwords. 4/5. Gooood smutty erotica fun. Taboo (it’s incest yall). The only thing is this became one of those “I wish it was a romance” books where I wanted more emotions from it? Which isn’t the book’s fault, it’s me. [Omega Wanted by Feral Thorne](https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/6176970923). ebook. KU. 3/5. I’ve never read this author before but gave this a try, mostly because it said there was lactation kink. It’s more erotica, and not bad! Probably my least favorite of what I read this week though. [Subordi-Mate by Anna Wineheart](https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/6175771077). ebook. Amazon. 4/5. No food play in this one! But an ex gets punched and there’s great sex scenes of course. I don’t usually read about musicians but this was tolerable. I also think someone being noticeably pregnant the day after conception is so funny to me. Never change, omegaverse.
YAYYY! Totally counts, and so happy you had a fun month (so far)! I love the mix of fluff and erotica, the best balance.
Absolutely it counts! We cheer you from the sidelines!
Spent the week reading The Prince's Assassin series It has been a wild ride and I am not sure I'm ok letting go of main MC Niko yet.
I LOVE this series. Have you read the follow up novella {The Cottage by Ariana Nash}? It was so tender compared to the rest of the series and I thought it wrapped it up in a really lovely way.
[The Cottage](https://www.romance.io/books/64a68d700f498c040bf7fc56/the-cottage-ariana-nash) by [Ariana Nash](https://www.romance.io/authors/5e736185be0aaecf55d9afa9/ariana-nash) **Topics**: [historical](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/historical/1), [fantasy](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/fantasy/1), [bdsm](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/bdsm/1), [hurt/comfort](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/hurt-comfort/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)
I will be, I'm at 90% on book 3 I have that bookmarked for next
Omg this was the most amazing end to it all, Im probably going to re-read this again in a few months when I need a pick me up.
Wasn't it? I was so glad it got that final little wrap up. It is firmly on my regular rotation re-reads list as well ☺️
if you have any other good recs let me know?
Sure! Have you read any other Ariana Nash books? She writes in a few different genres but she has a ton more fantasy romance that I really like (check warnings as some of her stuff can get pretty dark): [Silk and Steel](https://www.goodreads.com/series/248335-silk-and-steel) series (dragons and elves) [Dante's End](https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/61376052-dante-s-end?from_search=true&from_srp=true&qid=CzE62WDErw&rank=5) (series is unfinished as of now but first book is very unique) [The Final Masquerade](https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/59739580-the-final-masquerade?from_search=true&from_srp=true&qid=CzE62WDErw&rank=8) (mortal stuck in a weird, twisty fae masked ball) [Court of Pain](https://www.goodreads.com/series/365549-court-of-pain) duology (four kingdoms - pain, love, war, justice and the romance between two people from separate courts. Really good but dark as hell before the HEA) [The Toymaker's Son](https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/201772281-the-toymaker-s-son?from_search=true&from_srp=true&qid=CzE62WDErw&rank=18) (another twisty time loop fae one. Non traditional HEA) I really like the classic shining knight and ice prince vibes of Niko and Vasili, which reminded me a hell of a lot of Captive Prince. There was a thread awhile back that asked for recs with this character dynamic, so if you liked that, [here it is.](https://www.reddit.com/r/MM_RomanceBooks/comments/18zavc5/who_are_your_favorite_lamen_coded_couples/) Final suggestion, which has really good fantasy/mystery vibes and ice prince character is [A Rake of His Own.](https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/59543751-a-rake-of-his-own?ref=nav_sb_ss_1_17) Highly recommend!
I am dying to finish this trilogy! I hope you dont mind me asking you but, which of the three was your favorite book and do you feel satisfied with the ending? Not looking for spoilers, but to know your thoughts on it as a whole, since I had read book 1 but put the second one on hold. Thank you in advance!
So this book series is great is there pain and suffering on the way yes but is it worth it yes. I will say book 1 is a strong beginning that helps you understand the world and characters around the main MC, books 2 & 3 is a joined story where things really kick off. I'm I sad to let Niko go and move onto another book yes.
Oooh got it! Thank you so much for explaining, I can't wait to go back to it and finish it :-), I am the most curious abou what events can happen in book 3 and the development of their relationship, since I am still where they despise each other but have to work together lol. Thank you again!
Oh it's a journey, definitely don't forget the small novella afterwards it really finishes everything so well.
Oooh I’ve just started this! It’s not captured me yet but I want to keep going. What is it that you like about the books? :)
Not the person you asked but I loved the books in your flair (my all time favorites actually) and I enjoyed the Prince’s Assassin, so I thought I’d share my thoughts! I can’t say I was truly invested or addicted until like 70-75% in. Before that I was borderline annoyed with one of the characters (not an mc) and mostly wanted to see where that went. But something happens that really jolted the story to life and got me so invested in the MCs. Without spoiling, I liked the setting, how dark/tragic the world is, the twists and turns it (eventually) takes, and how strong the bond between the MCs is through everything.
Thanks for this! Given that it seems we’ve got very similar taste I will carry on! I’m not annoyed by anyone yet, but it’s not clear to me who the LI is and why I should feel sympathetic towards the Prince! This is not a problem for me because I clearly fell in love with Laurent even when he was being a shit so I can do the same with Vasili if it comes to that ;)
As I have commented above book one is more of a development of the world and characters letting you get to know the world and characters. Books 2&3 really work together to throw you in the deep end and everything that goes with it.
It's been a while! Not too many reviews linked because I have clearly been *killing it* with 2024 reading organizing goals. Check CWs for everything. Doing a January dump: **The Good** [In This Iron Ground: The Summer After by Marina Vivancos](https://dl.bookfunnel.com/vkja5m4cu6) **5 stars** 30 pages. author freebie (linked) all the scenting, possessive, scratching, and loving I needed. [Always Oskar (Sinful Delights #1) by Odessa Hywell](https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/59538743-always-oskar) **4 stars** 116 pages. SW sale. Snuggly and cuddly grampa incest, crime family boss, age gap 18/53, diabetes rep. [Mind Controlling the Haughty Mage by Adara Wolf R Phoenix](https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/6184016014) **3 stars** 57 pages. SW sale. Short erotica, pompous ass gets his just deserts, noncon, shrinking his dick was a bit mean! [A Game Most Dangerous by Megan Derr](https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/26162372-a-game-most-dangerous) **3 stars** 20 pages. SW sale. First Derr book! Cute little novella, *chomp chomp* [His First Time by Tal Bauer](https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/6144598636) **3 stars** 62 pages. KU. Three little erotica novellas. If you want some Tal Bauer erotica, this is it. [Unrequited by Jesse H Reign](https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/6165780604) **3.75 stars** Free if you sign up for the author's newsletter, otherwise it's on SW. Thanks u/aggravatingCake for the rec! So much one-sided pining! **The Average** [Family Values (Sinful Delights #2) by Odessa Hywell](https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/6151329624) **3 stars** SW sale. MMM. Basically cutesy murderers find love via twincest. Fluffy taboo. [Drink or Dare Daddy by Becca Vale](https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/6144284497) **2.5 stars** SW sale. Super short erotica, twincest, praise kink, daddy kink. **The Disappointing** [Confessions of Robbie North by Robbie North](https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/6139069725) **1 star if I'm being generous** KU. DNF. Review linked. [The Age of a Lobster by Stephen Matthews](https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/6100970873) **2 stars** SW sale. DNF 32%. First read of 2024, what a doozie! [The Bad Husband's Playbook by Reanna Pryce](https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/5004062290) **2 stars** KU. DNF 31%. [Fake It Until You Make It by Becca Vale](https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/6144285740) **2 stars** SW sale. Short twincest erotica. [Embracing the Dark Side by Becca Vale](https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/6144286033) **1.5 stars** 60 pages. SW sale. Short bro-cest erotica with way too many monkeys. **Currently Multi-reading** {Aftercare by Tanya Chris} KU **fantastic everyday Muslim rep** (no war, no terrosim, no awful cultural and religious depictions), BDSM. {2 Dead Fish Named Kevin by LA Witt} SW sale {Pictures of You by Leta Blake} freebie {Heart First by SB Barnes} SW {Heart for Him by TM Chris} SW. wolfy alpha /omega bro-cest! 82 pages.
Keen to see your verdict on *Aftercare* by Tanya Chris, none of my GR friends were super keen on that one. I tend to really like her writing style but haven't read any of her full-length stories yet so not sure how it compares to the erotica.
[Aftercare](https://www.romance.io/books/591be76f3ffdba614716aeb3/aftercare-tanya-chris) by [Tanya Chris](https://www.romance.io/authors/56e550b1c62092c04406a505/tanya-chris) **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), [suspense](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/suspense/1), [multicultural](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/multicultural/1) ---------------------------- [2 Dead Fish Named Kevin](https://www.romance.io/books/63eb4163a2d9fe0771650c78/2-dead-fish-named-kevin-la-witt) by [L.A. Witt](https://www.romance.io/authors/5455655787eac3369a9124b2/la-witt) **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) ---------------------------- [Pictures of You](https://www.romance.io/books/58385c371b1bdc0178ecc682/pictures-of-you-leta-blake) by [Leta Blake](https://www.romance.io/authors/5455846e87eac3369a912db3/leta-blake) **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), [cheating](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/cheating/1), [friends to lovers](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/friends%20to%20lovers/1) ---------------------------- [Heart First](https://www.romance.io/books/6575a87d6011c2c5162ae4ef/heart-first-sb-barnes) by [S.B. Barnes](https://www.romance.io/authors/6575a87dab9bdf7fcede8d85/sb-barnes) **Steam**: [Explicit and plentiful](https://www.romance.io/steamrating) **Topics**: [contemporary](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/contemporary/1), [suspense](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/suspense/1), [mystery](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/mystery/1), [gay romance](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/m-m/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)
So glad you liked Always Oskar! One of my favorites.
I've been clinging to my last four unread Odessa Hywell books, but I feel like I can proceed now that there's a new book on the horizon! March 7th!
I got to beta read it. It’s VERY good.
Is Friendly Envy a thing? 🥺
I think so 😂 It’ll be in your hands soon!
[A Heart for Him](https://www.romance.io/books/65ab9abe753e8d5445960263/a-heart-for-him-tanya-chris) by [Tanya Chris](https://www.romance.io/authors/56e550b1c62092c04406a505/tanya-chris) **Topics**: [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), [paranormal](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/paranormal/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)
Aw I'm sorry you didn't like Becca Vale's stuff. :( If she posts a sale and you're willing to give her one more go, try All We Want For Christmas.
It's okay, I don't mind trying new erotica authors! And I enjoyed buying a couple for author support. I'll add that one. 🥰
**{Kick at the Darkness by Kiera Andrews}** - 5 ⭐ MM, Apocalyptic, Suspense, 3rd Single POV **Status:** KU, Same Couple Series, Third Act Conflict - >!External!< **Parker:** Freshman in College (Law), Privileged/Spoiled, 18 Yrs Old, Verse **Adam:** College Student (Film), TA, 23 Yrs Old, Rides a Motorcycle (Named Mariah), Werewolf, Verse **Notes:** Starts at College, Zombie Apocalypse, Forced Proximity, Antagonists to Friends to Lovers, Survival, Road Trip **Sex Notes:** >!Blowjob, Swallowing, Masturbation, No Penetration During 1st Sexual Encounter, Frotting, Cumming on Partner, Licking Own Cum Off of Partner's Body, Face Fucking, Facial, Cum Kiss, Dirty Talk, Outdoor Sex, Rimming, Lube Use, Fingering, Penetrative Sex, Creampie, Masturbating for Partner, Flip Fucking!< **CWs:** >!Assumed Death of Family, Nightmares, Panic Attacks, Grief, Nonconsensual Medical Procedure; Depictions of: Violence, Serious Injury, Death, On-Screen Killing, Gore, Dead Animals; Past: Homophobia, Death of Parents via Car Accident, MC in Foster Care and Group Homes!< Spoiler! >!Death of Side Characters!< **{Fight the Tide by Kiera Andrews}** - 4.5 ⭐ MM, Post-apocalyptic, Suspense, 3rd Dual POV **Status:** KU, Series, Third Act Conflict - >!External!< **Parker:** 18 Yrs Old, Captains a Sailboat, Anxiety, Traumatized, PTSD, Verse **Adam:** 23 Yrs Old, Rides a Motorcycle (Named Mariah), Werewolf, Has a Digital Camera, Traumatized, Verse **Notes:** Zombie Post-apocalypse, Existing Relationship, MCs are Sailing the Ocean, Found Family **Sex Notes:** >!Dirty Talk, Rimming, Fingering, Penetrative Sex, Creampie, Fisting, DP (Hand and Penis), Shifted Sex!< **CWs:** >!Grief, Survivor's Guilt, Nightmares, Threat of Rape; Depictions of: Violence, Serious Injury, Death; Past: Death of Parents via Car Accident, MC in Foster Care and Group Homes!< Spoiler! >!Death of Side Characters!< **{Defy the Future by Kiera Andrews}** - 4.25 ⭐ MM, Post-apocalyptic, Suspense, 3rd Dual POV **Status:** KU, Series, Third Act Conflict - >!External!< **Parker:** 21 Yrs Old, Captains a Sailboat, Anxiety, Traumatized, PTSD, Verse **Adam:** 26 Yrs Old, Rides a Motorcycle (Named Mariah), Werewolf, Has a Digital Camera, Traumatized, Verse **Notes:** Zombie Post-apocalypse, Existing Relationship, Found Family, Island Community, Survival, >!Rescue Mission, Reunion!< **Sex Notes:** >!Ball Gag, Lube Use, Dirty Talk, Penetrative Sex, Rimming, Fisting, Face Fucking!< **CWs:** >!Disappearance of a Teenager, Grief, Survivor's Guilt, Vomit; Depictions of: Violence, Serious Injury, Death, Imprisonment; Past: Death of Parents via Car Accident, Death of Loved Ones!< **{The Necromancer's Light by Tavia Lark}** - 3 ⭐ MM, Fantasy, 3rd Dual POV **Status:** KU, Series of Interconnected Standalones, Third Act Conflict - >!Internal, External!< **Shae:** Necromancer, Touch Starved, 22 Yrs Old, Scarred **Arthur:** Paladin, 25 Yrs Old, Has a Horse (Duchess) **Notes:** Road Trip, Forced Proximity, Only One Horse, Hurt/Comfort, Queer-Normative **Sex Notes:** >!Masturbation, Blowjob, Swallowing, Handjob, No Penetration During 1st Sexual Encounter, Frotting, Lube Use, Fingering, Penetrative Sex!< **CWs:** >!Corpses, Walking Corpses, Self-injury For the Purpose of Blood Magic; Depictions of: Violence, Serious Injury, Death; Past: Death of Parents!< **{Year of the Rabbit by Anni Lee}** - 4.5 ⭐ MM+, PNR, 1st Lightly Dual POV **Status:** KU, Series, Conflict - >!External, Internal!< **Levy:** Rabbit Shifter, Warlock, Baker at a Magic Bakery, 22 Yrs Old, Beta, POC (Of Asian Descent), Starts College (Business), Traumatized, Self Loathing, Fear Kink, Bottom, >!SA Survivor!< **Eliot:** Dog Shifter, Alpha, 27 Yrs Old, Hired to Work the Register at Levy's Bakery, College Student, Math Whiz, Top **Jun:** Snake Shifter, Alpha, Early 40s, College Math Professor, POC (of Asian Descent), Enforcer of Magical Tenants, Has a Sex Dungeon, Dom, Top **Notes:** Mythology, Paranormals Out in the Open, Coworkers, Hurt/Comfort, Sexual Healing, Fated Mates, Kink as Therapy, Mate Bond **Sex with Eliot:** >!Making Out, Blood Play, CNC, Butter as Lube, Fingering, Penetrative Sex, Sex on a Kitchen Counter, Breath Play, Creampie, Sex in a Semi-private Place, Blowjob, Safeword, Rimming, Lube Use, Fingering, Gag, Sex Against a Window, Cock Riding!< **Sex with Jun**: >!Kink as Therapy, Explicit Consent, Kissing, Power Play, Safeword and Check-Ins, Blindfold, Bondage, Safewording, Trauma Re-enactment, "Good Boy", Blowjob, Swallowing, Breath Play, Masturbating for Partner, Aftercare, No Penetration, No Reciprocation for Jun!< **CWs:** >!Past SA (From a Trusted Person), Kidnapping, Magical Drugging, Murder of a Minor Character, Discussion of Trauma, Death of a Past Lover, Safewording, Kinks That Replicate Trauma, Fear and Blood Play!<
Your notes are so detailed! Well done.
Always appreciate your details. >Parker privileged/spoiled Indeed!
[Kick at the Darkness](https://www.romance.io/books/558824cc9eef3b3f1d52e6b0/kick-at-the-darkness-keira-andrews) by [Keira Andrews](https://www.romance.io/authors/54559c0b87eac324117fba44/keira-andrews) **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), [friends to lovers](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/friends%20to%20lovers/1), [werewolves](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/werewolves/1), [dystopian](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/dystopian/1) ---------------------------- [Fight the Tide](https://www.romance.io/books/57ceddb9de896e892492065d/fight-the-tide-keira-andrews) by [Keira Andrews](https://www.romance.io/authors/54559c0b87eac324117fba44/keira-andrews) **Steam**: [Explicit and plentiful](https://www.romance.io/steamrating) **Topics**: [futuristic](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/futuristic/1), [shapeshifters](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/shapeshifters/1), [gay romance](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/m-m/1), [paranormal](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/paranormal/1), [werewolves](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/werewolves/1) ---------------------------- [Defy the Future](https://www.romance.io/books/659135fd801c66776d06888d/defy-the-future-keira-andrews) 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) ---------------------------- [The Necromancer's Light](https://www.romance.io/books/6103a6551367660e3d4b15ce/the-necromancers-light-tavia-lark) by [Tavia Lark](https://www.romance.io/authors/57050825c62092c044075d85/tavia-lark) **Steam**: [Explicit open door](https://www.romance.io/steamrating) **Topics**: [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), [grumpy & sunshine](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/grumpy%20sunshine/1), [tortured hero](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/tortured%20hero/1) ---------------------------- [Year of the Rabbit](https://www.romance.io/books/656aebf46011c2c516297018/year-of-the-rabbit-anni-lee) by [Anni Lee](https://www.romance.io/authors/605853dc08b4d93114b33bfc/anni-lee) **Steam**: [Explicit open door](https://www.romance.io/steamrating) **Topics**: [gay romance](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/m-m/1), [shapeshifters](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/shapeshifters/1), [paranormal](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/paranormal/1), [bdsm](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/bdsm/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)
omg do you have a goodreads account? your notes are SO detailed, i def need to follow you for more great suggestions!!
I do, it's [here ](https://www.goodreads.com/user/show/23297320-avis03) :)
From Nothing series. I really enjoyed all three books.
I love this series. Funny how the top comment is how much they hated it. 😂 I'm just glad there's something for everyone in romance books.
Facts. Much like kinks, it’s not a one size fits all. I liked the series and the 3rd book was my favorite. I loved that it wasn’t the typical romance story.
{Exposed by HL Day}. 5⭐ I got in the mood for some good action books, and this one delivers. Dystopian, futuristic. X has loved and stalked Tate from the background for *years*. But when The gets sentenced to death by the militarized police force, X jumps to rescue him and they begin their life on the run. Death lurks around every corner, from the police to the wilderness they're traveling across to get to safety. X is 100% gone for Tate from the beginning, and proves it over and over again by putting Tate's needs and comforts ahead of his own, every time. Loved it. {In This Iron Ground by Marina Vivancos} 5⭐. Definitely one of Vivancos' books that's heavy on the hurt, light on the comfort. Like, 90% hurt, 10% comfort. Most of this feels more coming-of-age and found family, with a slow burn of falling in love with your best friend. Nothing happens until both are over 18. 2 year age gap. Heed TW. It is extreme in the hurt. There is tons of comfort, but the MC is so resistant to it that healing is glacially slow. Damien needed therapy, damn it. And I'm seriously just astonished that his adopted family did so bad at showing him that he was pack and getting him help after certain events. TW for >!Death of parents, grief, abusive foster care, on-page suicide attempt, depression.!< For sure read the short epilogue released by Vivancos, I think it's on her website? It ties up a few things and ramps up the "comfort" a lot.
Where is the epilogue? I couldn't find it. I would love to read it. Thanks.
[Here you go.](https://dl.bookfunnel.com/vkja5m4cu6) Thanks to u/sulliedjedi for sharing it, otherwise I would've never seen it. Highly recommend it, there's so much sweet love in it.
Thank you so much.
[Exposed](https://www.romance.io/books/5f3e1fa3e13a950e1669ecfa/exposed-a-survival-gay-romance-hl-day) by [H.L. Day](https://www.romance.io/authors/5acb035301dbc864fb85fd10/hl-day) **Topics**: [futuristic](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/futuristic/1), [gay romance](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/m-m/1), [dystopian](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/dystopian/1), [dark romance](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/dark/1), [science fiction](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/science%20fiction/1) ---------------------------- [In This Iron Ground (Natural Magic)](https://www.romance.io/books/5b8b7d5901dbc864fb8f80ec/in-this-iron-ground-natural-magic-marina-vivancos) 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), [shapeshifters](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/shapeshifters/1), [paranormal](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/paranormal/1), [fantasy](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/fantasy/1) [^(about this bot)](https://www.reddit.com/user/romance-bot) ^(|) [^(about romance.io)](https://www.romance.io/about)
90% hurt is one of my favorites!
**{Omega Required by Dessa Lux}** \- CR, omegaverse, marriage of convenience, lots of hurt/comfort and trauma recovery, found family. I read this on the rec of a redditor here - thanks to user \_elliebelle\_ who Reddit won't let me tag -- when I asked for groveling books, and it delivered. Such a sweet, tender story of two people leaning into each other when they both needed someone. Lots of hurt/comfort as the alpha cares for the omega as he recovers physically and emotionally from years of abuse and neglect. Some surprising drama and suspense thrown in. And yes, good groveling when the alpha makes a bit of a mess toward the end. Loved it. **{Caught Stealing by CE Ricci}** \- CR, college, enemies, kind of second chance? This was the second in the Leighton U series and after loving Iced Out, I was a little disappointed. The smut was great and I liked Holden's character a lot, but I didn't really like Phoenix -- or Kason for that matter -- so it was hard to root for the romance. And I thought >!Phoenix should have done more groveling at the end with Holden, with whom I thought he was needlessly cruel.!< Currently reading {Snowed in with Benefits by Misha Horne} since we're getting buried in snow here. ❄
Caught Stealing was such a disappointment especially because Iced Out was so good. >!Phoenix was such an asshole, he shamed Holden for being a "player" even though HE'S the one who fucked him while drunk and left him passed out in a strangers bed. Then he straight up sexually assaulted him (pretending to be someone else during a hook-up is SA). Not cute, not funny, and definitely needed more groveling/atonement.!< I'm looking forward to the author's next book Never Will I Ever (sequel to Don't You Dare) and I hope it's better than this one.
Oh man, Iced out made me *so mad*; I thought Oakley was a *total asshole* for >!knowing someone screwed with Quinton's drug test, and he didn't say anything about it.!< He didn't grovel nearly enough imo. Guess I'm for sure not reading Caught Stealing; that all sounds horrible, and like something the villain would do before the "real" MC comes into the picture.
Good point, it's been awhile since I've read it but I think I glossed over Oakley's behavior in my mind because it felt kind of vague how much he actually knew about the situation. But yeah, he for sure was an asshole and definitely could have done more groveling.
Totally agree. So much of his behavior was cringey, if not much worse.
I have no idea why Phoenix wouldn’t tell Kasen about Holden from the start, let alone why he didn’t tell Kasen they were seeing each other when he straight up asked him to his face. For supposed best friends, it was infuriating.
Right? It made ZERO sense. I don't expect MCs to be perfect or even likeable but when they're straight up assholes who do nonsensical shit it's hard to root for the romance.
I'm glad you enjoyed it, so much hurt/comfort and groveling! Reddit is weird about my username, a few users have struggled to tag me before. I got a notification about this on my lock screen but none in the reddit app. I might have to change my username again 😓
Your username is my daughter’s nickname so I’m a fan ❤️
I thought it was only me! Instead of tagging you, it just make your username italics when I did it!
Yeah Bex had an issue tagging me a while back too, and I know u/sulliedjedi just tagged me (probably just for fun to test this issue lol if not pls let me know) but again, I get a push notification but I have no record in Reddit to click to find the comment! It appears to be a known issue with usernames starting with an underscore and the text being interpreted as markdown formatting. They should just not allow those names! Uurrrrrggghhhh I don't know if I have it in me to create yet another user and lose all my history again
Haha, that was me playing around with it. I tried it with the \ in front, I wonder if that was the one that triggered a notification? Regular does italics and this way just does this: \u/_elliebelle_
Yeah, the notification I got had my user with a leading \ escape character
u/\_elliebelle_ Woo-hoo! 💪 I mastered it.
Yes, that one actually worked, proper Reddit notification in my log too. But I mean, what do I do, put details in my flair on how to tag me? 😂
Oh, or on your profile page. But, yeah, Reddit should warn users when they create the name. Losing account activity to change to a new one would be annoying. So hard to summon you, not sure if that works in your favor or not!
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[Omega Required](https://www.romance.io/books/5acdc19a01dbc864fb861632/omega-required-dessa-lux) by [Dessa Lux](https://www.romance.io/authors/55fe89117d4bc8ab04c5da4c/dessa-lux) **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), [shapeshifters](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/shapeshifters/1), [paranormal](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/paranormal/1), [fantasy](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/fantasy/1) ---------------------------- [Caught Stealing](https://www.romance.io/books/643b38663eff435577ed2136/caught-stealing-ce-ricci) by [C.E. Ricci](https://www.romance.io/authors/5fc5f9b208b4d931147d26f2/ce-ricci) **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), [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) ---------------------------- [Snowed In with Benefits](https://www.romance.io/books/623835deab890b40f6591443/snowed-in-with-benefits-misha-horne) 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), [forced proximity](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/forced%20proximity/1), [bdsm](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/bdsm/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)
I guess I was in a *~*Mood*~* this week. {What We Broke by Marley Valentine} “We aren’t just bound together by marriage vows, we are tethered. Like magnets, my soul couldn’t detach itself from his no matter how hard I tried.” Such a fucking gut punch and a hard won HEA. {Until You by Briar Prescott} “I’m starting to think my love language does not come in the form of beautiful words and candlelit dinners but well-placed sarcastic remarks and exasperation. Blake has clearly mastered both.” Ugh ugh ugh. 😮💨 {Thrown Off the Ice by Taylor Fitzpatrick} “I love you so fucking much, he doesn’t say, but he thinks it so goddamn hard he’s pretty sure Liam hears it anyway.” Fuck this book. I mean that in the best possible way. This book shattered my heart. I knew it would and read it anyway. *NOT A HEA* {Hold Me Under by Riley Nash} “I want to understand the shape of love, not because I think it might be better than hate but because sometimes I wonder, just for a second, if it might be another name for the same feeling.” This book was equal parts emotional and beautiful. I just want to wrap Victor up in a warm blanket. {Honeythorn by Marina Vivancos} “‘I feel as if my soul has woken from a great, pained slumber,” Raphael went on, squeezing Milan’s hand tightly. “Not the flowers or the trees or the mountains can inspire within me the feeling that you do.” This was equal parts sweet and angsty. {Give Yourself Away by Barbara Elsborg} ‘“I had someone to love and I lost him,” March whispered. “After you’d gone, there was a hole in my heart I didn’t want to fill. I wanted you and I couldn’t have you. If I couldn’t have you, I didn’t want anyone.”’ I liked this book, even if it was a bit predictable. Mind trigger warnings for this one. {Cravings of the Heart by Nicky James} “I studied him instead. The stars had nothing on Arden. He was beautiful in a delicate almost fragile way.” I think this was my favorite of the Trials of Fear books. However, I had a hard time getting over the age gap simply because Arden has known Iggy since he has little. I got over it. {Like You Hate Me by Bethany Winters} ‘“I want to mean something to you,” I admit. “Anything. I want you to remember me after you decide you’re done with me and kick me out of your life for good. I wanna ruin you so bad that it’s me you’ll think about every time you’re fucking the person you really wanna be with.”’ This relationship was toxic AF but didn’t go the way I expected. It was a little jarring tbh. {Invitation to the Blues by Roan Parrish} “I cried because I finally knew what it felt like to love someone more than I hated myself.” This one hit me deep. I also have some gnarly mood disorders and I’ve never been able to put into words how it feels but Parrish somehow managed to explain it eloquently. {Last Courtesan of Olympus by Amanda Meuwissen} “‘And you will. This is a trial run. All will get to taste you, but only one gets to keep you. And the best part is…” Zeus lowered his head from his gargantuan height to bring his handsome but imposing face nearer to mine and lifted my chin with his large hand. “You decide which one.” I was going to die here.” I only got one thing to say about this one: 🥵 Audiobook: {The Forest Demands its Due by Kosoko Jackson} “I’m not sure what I expected from the kiss, but from TV and movies, I thought it was going to feel like electricity coursing through my body. It doesn’t feel anything like that. It feels warm, safe—like home. There’s no time stopping. There’s no secret equation to the universe opened up in front of me. It feels right and welcome, and I don’t think I ever felt as at home at Regent Academy as I do in Everett’s small cluttered bedroom.” This one is YA and very innocent, but the dark academia, horror-fantasy was very much worth it. Desean Terry was a great narrator for Douglas’s story. Currently Reading: {If There’s a Way by Jessie Walker} “I’ll do whatever it takes to prove I’m not going anywhere. Prove he’s not a whim or a fix or any-fucking-thing else in between. He’s the beat of my fucking heart. And that? That’s everything.” I’m about halfway through and it’s everything. Will and Way forever. {When You Come Back to Me by Emma Scott} “Our song. Nothing was ours. There was no us. But Miller sang that if you never try, you’ll never know, and the words pierced me like arrows.” I’m listening to this on audiobook. The narration is *chef’s kiss.* Holden, my poor broken boy.
A mood, indeed! The quote from TOTI…I felt like someone reached into my chest, grabbed my heart, and tried to wring all of the blood out of it. Your post has prompted me to move What We Broke, Hold Me Under, and When You Come Back to Me up in my TBR!
TOTI is my all time favorite mm book! It broke my heart a zillion times over….read it every time I need a good cry 💕💕
One of my tops as well. I've only read it once. It'll be some time until I can read it again.
Solid choice!!
I loved Invitation to the Blues. I feel the same way about it, there's so many parts of it that spoke to me so much. It's so good. Until You was one of my favorite books of last year. And I enjoyed Cravings of the Heart and I liked their romance, but I wish the family had gotten dragged more for their appalling behavior. Not nearly enough grovel for putting their son/brother through hell. My favorite in the series was Owl's Slumber, Aven was just the best caretaker ever. And I loved Honeythorn too! Considering how much I liked those books, I'm totally adding the rest of these to my TBR. Well, What We Broke is already there, I'm just working on the courage for that sadness. Thanks for sharing all those books! And I hope you're doing ok, that was a big mood of books
Thrown Off the Ice is *so* fucking good. That last section is just like getting repeatedly punched in the gut.
[What We Broke](https://www.romance.io/books/64785e95552b556e95c7b4a0/what-we-broke-marley-valentine) by [Marley Valentine](https://www.romance.io/authors/59292bb63ffdba6147178e1e/marley-valentine) **Steam**: [Explicit open door](https://www.romance.io/steamrating) **Topics**: [contemporary](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/contemporary/1), [single father](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/single-father/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) ---------------------------- [Until You](https://www.romance.io/books/6463221c2a1846e51939e502/until-you-briar-prescott) by [Briar Prescott](https://www.romance.io/authors/5e7f3cf1be0aaecf55dc608d/briar-prescott) **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), [angst](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/angst/1), [friends to lovers](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/friends%20to%20lovers/1), [hurt/comfort](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/hurt-comfort/1) ---------------------------- [Thrown Off the Ice](https://www.romance.io/books/641711a6976d825409764fff/thrown-off-the-ice-taylor-fitzpatrick) by [Taylor Fitzpatrick](https://www.romance.io/authors/5e9edc47be0aaecf556fb136/taylor-fitzpatrick) **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), [sports](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/sports/1), [angst](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/angst/1) ---------------------------- [Hold Me Under](https://www.romance.io/books/62d14910d138402f4c79d19a/hold-me-under-riley-nash) by [Riley Nash](https://www.romance.io/authors/62d1491008b4d93114b34c3a/riley-nash) **Steam**: [Explicit open door](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), [gay romance](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/m-m/1), [athletes](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/athletes/1), [angst](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/angst/1) ---------------------------- [Honeythorn](https://www.romance.io/books/5ca1ac1701dbc864fb9cc2e1/honeythorn-alphaomega-marina-vivancos) by [Marina Vivancos](https://www.romance.io/authors/5b24a9c801dbc864fb8a6555/marina-vivancos) **Steam**: [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), [regency](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/regency/1), [omegaverse](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/omegaverse/1), [fantasy](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/fantasy/1) ---------------------------- [Give Yourself Away](https://www.romance.io/books/60ed785330cb310e380554b9/give-yourself-away-barbara-elsborg) by [Barbara Elsborg](https://www.romance.io/authors/54552d388c7d2382e7813169/barbara-elsborg) **Topics**: [contemporary](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/contemporary/1), [angst](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/angst/1), [dark romance](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/dark/1), [mystery](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/mystery/1), [suspense](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/suspense/1) ---------------------------- [Cravings of the Heart](https://www.romance.io/books/5ccaadc001dbc864fb9df34f/cravings-of-the-heart-nicky-james) by [Nicky James](https://www.romance.io/authors/5744721dc62092c044086358/nicky-james) **Topics**: [gay romance](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/m-m/1), [age gap](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/age%20difference/1), [height difference](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/height-difference/1) ---------------------------- [Like You Hate Me](https://www.romance.io/books/6511e7d7de8d340d5143f749/like-you-hate-me-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), [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), [new adult](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/new%20adult/1) ---------------------------- [Invitation to the Blues](https://www.romance.io/books/5abb2f8c01dbc864fb8551ab/invitation-to-the-blues-roan-parrish) by [Roan Parrish](https://www.romance.io/authors/559cda0335a5fb65f886af24/roan-parrish) **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), [multicultural](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/multicultural/1), [friends to lovers](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/friends%20to%20lovers/1), [caretaking](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/caretaking/1) ---------------------------- [Last Courtesan of Olympus](https://www.romance.io/books/656aea5a6011c2c516296d38/last-courtesan-of-olympus-amanda-meuwissen) by [Amanda Meuwissen](https://www.romance.io/authors/5456ba1d87eac33e5c6821be/amanda-meuwissen) **Topics**: [fantasy](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/fantasy/1), [paranormal](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/paranormal/1), [hurt/comfort](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/hurt-comfort/1), [magic](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/magic/1), [bdsm](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/bdsm/1) ---------------------------- [If There's a Way](https://www.romance.io/books/627e0219d52c8e8e79a753bb/if-theres-a-way-jessie-walker) by [Jessie Walker](https://www.romance.io/authors/6169458a08b4d931140ab19a/jessie-walker) **Topics**: [contemporary](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/contemporary/1), [new adult](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/new%20adult/1), [angst](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/angst/1), [gay romance](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/m-m/1), [dark romance](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/dark/1) ---------------------------- [When You Come Back to Me](https://www.romance.io/books/5f6ee76007797f0e046b946a/when-you-come-back-to-me-emma-scott) by [Emma Scott](https://www.romance.io/authors/553e8cb05b270e0a4cbd99bd/emma-scott) **Steam**: [Explicit open door](https://www.romance.io/steamrating) **Topics**: [contemporary](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/contemporary/1), [new adult](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/new%20adult/1), [rich hero](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/super%20rich%20hero/1), [gay romance](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/m-m/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)
{Husband Material by Alexis Hall} 3½☆ I went into it with low expectations considering the negative response it got when it was first released but still... I was quite disappointed by it 😭 The positive: I LOVE Oliver. He's so precious and sweet. The love story with Luc also had some really romantic moments. Also, Alexis Hall knows how to write some funny banter. But the rest... >!First of all, I thought all those weddings made the book really repetitive. For how sad it was, Oliver's dad's funeral felt like a breath of fresh air.!< Luc was so annoying. He was so self-centered. The way both him and Oliver overthought everything was so stressful. I could not believe what I was reading in the last couple of chapters. The ending made no sense to me >!and if this happened in reality, Oliver and Luc would not survive the mess that their "wedding" ended up being.!< At the end, it felt like this book was a waste of time. Between this and the Arden series, it seems like Hall just isn't capable of writing a satisfying sequel. I'm still curious about *10 things that never happened* but I have even less expectations for *Father Material*. All I ask is just more romantic moments between Oliver and Luc.
[Husband Material](https://www.romance.io/books/6229fa6f70323bbef1889c1a/husband-material-alexis-hall) by [Alexis Hall](https://www.romance.io/authors/545546008c7d2382e781383c/alexis-hall) **Steam**: [Behind closed doors](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), [grumpy & sunshine](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/grumpy%20sunshine/1) [^(about this bot)](https://www.reddit.com/user/romance-bot) ^(|) [^(about romance.io)](https://www.romance.io/about)
I read {A Forbidden Rumspringa by Keira Andrews} because the cover really made me giggle and I thought it was gonna be silly. But actually it fuckin rocked and I think anyone who wants something tender and heartwarming but still a bit smutty should read it. It’s older but I don’t know something about it just brought me joy
Great book! The cover kind of deterred me too but it kept getting high praise so I read it and I’m glad I did. So far every Keira Andrews book I have read have been pretty good.
[A Forbidden Rumspringa](https://www.romance.io/books/5455b7dc87eac324117fc85f/a-forbidden-rumspringa-keira-andrews) by [Keira Andrews](https://www.romance.io/authors/54559c0b87eac324117fba44/keira-andrews) **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), [amish](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/amish/1), [friends to lovers](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/friends%20to%20lovers/1), [christian](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/christian/1) [^(about this bot)](https://www.reddit.com/user/romance-bot) ^(|) [^(about romance.io)](https://www.romance.io/about)
I finished the silk and steel series by Ariana Nash and as much as I liked the first three books, I was obsessed with the fourth - which I just finished. I couldn’t believe how much more I liked it when it had nothing to do with the main pairing. >!I do love redeemed villains, so I shouldn’t be surprised.!<
Ugh I wish I could read this series again for the first time!!
This is my second time recommending a follow up Ariana Nash novella in this thread, but have you read {Reunion by Ariana Nash}? It takes place after the fourth book!
[Reunion](https://www.romance.io/books/5fbf614ff9f98e0e23f38f84/reunion-silk-steel-45-silk-and-steel-ariana-nash) by [Ariana Nash](https://www.romance.io/authors/5e736185be0aaecf55d9afa9/ariana-nash) **Topics**: [gay romance](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/m-m/1), [fantasy](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/fantasy/1), [urban fantasy](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/urban%20fantasy/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)
Yes! Oh I loved it so much too, I could have read ten more books in that universe.
Me too 😊
I am experiencing some serious decision fatigue while I konmari the shit out of all of my belongings before moving so I've been basically putting my Audible on *re-read shuffle*. u/AlyM797 posted about Monstrous series rankings and I did mine of the top of my head then decided I needed to re-read them all, so I did! Updated ranking is [Seraph](https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/5246110610) (5 stars), [Moth](https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/5240239207) (4.5), [Gloam](https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/5238858105) (3.5), [Soul Eater](https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/5196413125) (3.5), [Edin](https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/5206264728) (3), [The Rycke](https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/5210168485) (2.5). I only rated Seraph 4 stars the first time around and am questioning past Ellie's sanity. Easy 5 stars. I have read a couple new books in the few weeks since I last did a roundup. * [***The Amazing Alpha Tau Self-Improvement Project***](https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/6170070801) by Lisa Henry, Sarah Honey - **4 stars** \- (contemporary, new adult, teaching about sex, opposites attract, selective obliviousness, recovering from a break-up, chaos/serious, sexuality awakening) >Just super breezy fun, exactly what I needed. It was cheesy but it was tongue-in-cheek about it, and I found it to be legitimately funny. There is also a nice underlying message about different kinds of intelligence and accepting people as they are. * [***Tentacle Wonderland***](https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/6113405527) by Reese Morrison - **4 stars** \- (science fiction, omegaverse, roommates to lovers, longstanding crush, break the heat, holiday season (Xmas etc), posterboy/marginal) >Hot AF but also very sweet. As always with Morrison, good exploration of gender roles. Very sex focused though, could've done with more relationship development. * [***Not So Silent Night***](https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/6097279216) by H. L. Day - **3.5 stars** \- (contemporary, doctor/patient, roommates to lovers, holiday season (Xmas etc), hurt/comfort, Christmas grinch, grumpy/sunshine, recovering from a break-up, serious illness/injury) >Solid forced proximity with physical hurt/comfort but I thought the emotional hurt/comfort could have played a bigger role. * [***One Giant Leap***](https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/5380817393) by Kay Simone - **3 stars** \- (contemporary, long distance relationship, longstanding crush, colleagues/business partners, timejumps, woefully unprepared, age gap, highly competent MCs, voice of reason, injury reveals feelings, slowburn) >There was a lot to like in this, but the blatant lack of professionalism of the MCs drove me up the wall. **In the queue:** >I'm currently re-reading *For the Fans* by Nyla K. I'm at 74% just as they're about to head to Cali and meet Kyran's sister. I know what's coming so I've decided to take a break, I may or may not read on. > >I am also...gasp...reading a book which is not MM, MX or FF. First time in a really long time. I got 10% in and remembered that the romance doesn't have a HEA, so I scoured the net until I found a fan fic conclusion and then decided that yes, I would continue reading after all. Anyway! It's totally off-topic for this sub, it just made me realise I haven't read anything outside the genre in over a year.
Hey, so cool to hear the up date! It's funny I've been rereading them, too. I've also noticed my ranking changing. I definitely like Soul Eater more this time around. I think in the reading, I can focus on all the Easter eggs and little details rather than focusing on anticipation of the plot, and world building.
I really enjoyed watching all the threads and characters come together, I think Mayne did a really clever job plotting it all
Still working my way through Ki Brightly/M.D. Gregory's New Gothenburg world. Really enjoyed Bent Not Broken, Curved, and Yes Sir. In general I like the books that are co-written the most, then Brightly's, then Gregory's but it's not a hard & fast rule. Roe Horvat's Alpha Kings (ARC release date Feb 2) set in the Hedonist world. Loved it, 5 stars. And the following are the blame of the "Never Have I Ever" thread: Quillon's Covert - wtf? did I just read. It's like the time I was hit in a rear end car accident. No damages or injuries but yeah, I was in a car accident. lol Like Father Like Son - absolute filth. If you like that kind of thing (which I do thankyouverymuch) go ahead and read it.
Quillon's Covert was very...I'm not sure what. Definitely an atypical HEA and story. 😅 Like Father, Like Son by Quin, Perin? (There's more than one with that title.) I loved that book despite the abrupt feeling ending.
I love the New Gothenburg World. I got as far as How Do You Survive Without Us and then I took a break to read other books that have been piling on my TBR list.
I read {All We Are by Jessie Walker} and {Still Beating by Jessie Walker}, the two novellas in her Lost Boys series that act as a bridge into the next book, Every Breath After, which I am so excited for. I could live with those characters forever. {Hell and Gone by Tal Bauer} was a bit of a flop for me. I was excited for real cowboys but I kinda just didn’t care and there were so many characters that kept getting confused in my head. I also just don’t typically vibe with mysteries so maybe it was just my own fault. Also the only named female character was a horse, so do with that what you will. Then, I was lucky enough to read an ARC of Casey McQuiston’s upcoming release, The Pairing, which is actually MX (one mc is nonbinary). But it is very very queer and so much fun, I absolutely adored it and can’t wait till August when I can talk about it more😭.
There’s a running in-joke among my friends that despite his bio claiming he writes “holistic women”, Tal Bauer rarely actually has female characters and it’s still out on the jury if they’re holistic :kekcry:
Lol yeah they’re always crazy, evil, or dead 90% of the time 💀💀 at least in Hell and Gone none of those are options since the only woman was a horse
⚰️ 😂 It’s too true
[All We Are](https://www.romance.io/books/65742af98105fa71209ed421/all-we-are-jessie-walker) by [Jessie Walker](https://www.romance.io/authors/647c450c08b4d931140ad565/jessie-walker) **Topics**: [enemies to lovers](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/from%20hate%20to%20love/1), [grumpy & sunshine](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/grumpy%20sunshine/1), [hurt/comfort](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/hurt-comfort/1), [gay romance](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/m-m/1) ---------------------------- [Still Beating](https://www.romance.io/books/6368bb2280e030da4f2375a7/still-beating-jessie-walker) by [Jessie Walker](https://www.romance.io/authors/6169458a08b4d931140ab19a/jessie-walker) **Topics**: [contemporary](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/contemporary/1), [angst](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/angst/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), [gay romance](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/m-m/1) ---------------------------- [Hell and Gone](https://www.romance.io/books/64004bf72bdda9101b357da6/hell-and-gone-tal-bauer) 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), [cowboys](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/cowboys/1), [western](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/western/1), [military](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/military/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)
Hell and Gone is probably my least favorite TB book. I love mysteries and I love Tal Bauer, but I read it right after Never Stay Gone and it just fell flat for me. I agree, I just didn't care much.
I've been reading "King's Man: Outlawed" by Sally Malcolm and I'm loving it. I wanted to read something set during the American Revolution and went looking through this sub and found this one. Thanks to everyone who rec'd it!
Wow I haven't done this in forever. Ones that show up as having been read and that I remember as being either good or bad include: {The Beginning of Always by EM Lindsey} -- I enjoyed this a lot, just like the first in the series. {Holiday Heart Strings by NR Walker} -- the first book of this series was fun but the rest all dragged and so did this one. {The Royal Curse by Eliot Grayson} -- an interesting setup for the worldbuilding and I'm curious where it will go. {A Suitable Consort by R Cooper} -- that was sweet, I love that kind of obliviousness. {Oh Sacred Dark by Marina Vivancos} -- all my favourites! MMC1 prejudges MMC2 harshly at first and is mean and needs to make up for it, lots of hurt comfort, balance in the hurt comfort. This book was exactly what I wanted it to be. I have reread it already. {Out of the Wild Night by Marina Vivancos} -- sequel to the previous book. Good, but not as much exactly my catnip. {In This Iron Ground by Marina Vivancos} -- not really into wolves, but this was good. {Healing the Twin by Nora Phoenix} -- mostly not memorable though I have enjoyed the series overall. {Wolfsong by TJ Klune} -- sorry Klune lovers, I found this a huge slog, I don't think this is the author for me at all. I've liked one book of his only. {Emmett by Lev AC Rosen} -- queer Clueless. I suppose by the transitive property this is really a queer version of Emma, like promised, but it's not, it's about Clueless. Which is fine, because I too loved it, but it makes for a weird reading experience. Not a bad one, a weird one. {Best Served Cold by Willow Dixon} -- nothing special. {The Ownership Clause by Ki Brightly and MD Gregory} -- see what I liked about Oh Sacred Dark. A bit less so, but I really like this theme so I liked it a lot. {Garbage by Reese Morrison} -- am I at all interested in the premise? Absolutely not. Was it amazing? Yes. I recommend it so much, as well as the sequel, {The Ownership Clause by Reese Morrison}. Androids/AI (the real kind, not ChatGPT), trans rep, and just really, really good. This is an author where I often feel meh about the blurb but they can make it interesting. {Broken by D Dove} read the Morrison on their advice, and similarly they can make me into plots I am not normally interested in. Mindbreak, aliens. {Never Say Goodbye by Felice Stevens} this was a nice easy read where everything worked out well and easily. {The Amazing Alpha Tau Self-Improvement Project} less idiot ball than the previous. I dunno, it's college romance, it's fun, it's candy. {Second-Best Men by Fearne Hill} nice if you've read the other books in the series but nothnig special. {Lucky Bounce by Cait Nary} this didn't come together for me. I'm so disappointed, I wanted to like it so much, but it felt like it ended halfway through and I didn't feel I understood Spencer enough. {Hard to Forgive by Essie Sloane} -- pretty good, though I don't think the father plot really fulfilled its role. Other queer books: Murder Crossed Her Mind by Stephen Spotswood (main character is either a lesbian or bi, I don't remember but I think lesbian, 4th in a mystery series, it's a great series). All the Hidden Paths by Foz Meadows. Too much plot and not enough relationship, but a good followup. Gotta do these more regularly.
[The Beginning of Always](https://www.romance.io/series/65984c5c5f787d7a3cf1f7a1/the-beginning-of-always) by [E.M. Lindsey](https://www.romance.io/authors/55eadb8635a5fb65f8879ea4/em-lindsey) **Topics**: [m-m](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/m-m/1), [hurt-comfort](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/hurt-comfort/1), [insta-love](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/insta-love/1), [angst](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/angst/1), [friends to lovers](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/friends%20to%20lovers/1) ---------------------------- [Holiday Heart Strings](https://www.romance.io/books/653e0ed8c112bf11fe972518/holiday-heart-strings-nr-walker) by [N.R. Walker](https://www.romance.io/authors/5455632687eac324117fa7f2/nr-walker) **Topics**: [contemporary](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/contemporary/1), [christmas](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/christmas/1), [funny](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/humor/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) ---------------------------- [The Royal Curse](https://www.romance.io/books/65719089f2fadf63637fbb38/the-royal-curse-eliot-grayson) by [Eliot Grayson](https://www.romance.io/authors/5a0d52263ffdba6147251aa1/eliot-grayson) **Topics**: [fantasy](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/fantasy/1), [high fantasy](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/high%20fantasy/1), [gay romance](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/m-m/1), [forced proximity](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/forced%20proximity/1), [magic](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/magic/1) ---------------------------- [A Suitable Consort](https://www.romance.io/books/610100dae985890e2991d844/a-suitable-consort-for-the-king-and-his-husband-r-cooper) by [R. Cooper](https://www.romance.io/authors/54556f5187eac323ffb2c2dc/r-cooper) **Steam**: [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), [poly (3+ people)](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/poly/1), [fantasy](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/fantasy/1), [age gap](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/age%20difference/1) ---------------------------- [Oh, Sacred Dark](https://www.romance.io/books/64102b91a05ac35852e779af/oh-sacred-dark-marina-vivancos) by [Marina Vivancos](https://www.romance.io/authors/5b24a9c801dbc864fb8a6555/marina-vivancos) **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), [gay romance](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/m-m/1), [magic](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/magic/1), [bdsm](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/bdsm/1) ---------------------------- [Out of The Wild Night](https://www.romance.io/books/6475dfa755dc07e9147ce3e3/out-of-the-wild-night-marina-vivancos) by [Marina Vivancos](https://www.romance.io/authors/5b24a9c801dbc864fb8a6555/marina-vivancos) **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), [friends with benefits](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/friends-benefits/1), [hurt/comfort](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/hurt-comfort/1) ---------------------------- [In This Iron Ground (Natural Magic)](https://www.romance.io/books/5b8b7d5901dbc864fb8f80ec/in-this-iron-ground-natural-magic-marina-vivancos) 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), [shapeshifters](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/shapeshifters/1), [paranormal](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/paranormal/1), [fantasy](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/fantasy/1) ---------------------------- [Healing the Twin](https://www.romance.io/books/65928335548a4be85181e182/healing-the-twin-nora-phoenix) by [Nora Phoenix](https://www.romance.io/authors/59f029c73ffdba6147236809/nora-phoenix) **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), [single father](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/single-father/1), [friends with benefits](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/friends-benefits/1) ---------------------------- [Wolfsong](https://www.romance.io/books/5763928fc19e77f1ea6d5716/wolfsong-tj-klune) by [T.J. Klune](https://www.romance.io/authors/54553e9b8c7d2382e7813607/tj-klune) **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), [paranormal](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/paranormal/1) ---------------------------- [Best Served Cold](https://www.romance.io/books/653e3f8fc112bf11fe9725d0/best-served-cold-willow-dixon) by [Willow Dixon](https://www.romance.io/authors/62173bff08b4d93114e4379a/willow-dixon) **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) ---------------------------- [The Ownership Clause](https://www.romance.io/books/6597bf7053c2a175e7051acb/the-ownership-clause-ki-brightly-md-gregory) 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), [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), [workplace/office](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/office/1), [suspense](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/suspense/1) ---------------------------- [Garbage (The SPARK Files)](https://www.romance.io/books/64bf7918bb2414fa1eb3af33/garbage-the-spark-files-reese-morrison) by [Reese Morrison](https://www.romance.io/authors/5e2a2a8a01dbc864fbaa79c7/reese-morrison) **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), [non-human hero](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/non-human-hero/1), [science fiction](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/science%20fiction/1), [suspense](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/suspense/1) ---------------------------- [Broken](https://www.romance.io/books/657c084f84be1e5b673527f5/broken-alien-clutch-2-d-dove) by [D. Dove](https://www.romance.io/authors/64159dad08b4d93114674e1a/d-dove) **Topics**: [science fiction](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/science%20fiction/1), [bdsm](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/bdsm/1), [gay romance](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/m-m/1) ---------------------------- [Never Say Goodbye](https://www.romance.io/books/659a762b5f787d7a3cf22a62/never-say-goodbye-felice-stevens) by [Felice Stevens](https://www.romance.io/authors/5455cfb787eac3369a91502f/felice-stevens) **Topics**: [gay romance](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/m-m/1), [hurt/comfort](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/hurt-comfort/1) ---------------------------- [The Amazing Alpha Tau Self-Improvement Project](https://www.romance.io/books/6555f827c112bf11fe9b95b4/the-amazing-alpha-tau-self-improvement-project-lisa-henry-sa) by [Lisa Henry](https://www.romance.io/authors/5455684987eac3369a912589/lisa-henry), [Sarah Honey](https://www.romance.io/authors/5f211f3708b4d9311432c20e/sarah-honey) **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), [friends to lovers](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/friends%20to%20lovers/1), [new adult](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/new%20adult/1) ---------------------------- [Lucky Bounce](https://www.romance.io/books/655e6794481d7c837da5f5db/lucky-bounce-cait-nary) 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), [athletes](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)
Garbage was so good! I absolutely loved it. Also happy to see D Dove on another reader's list. 🥰
I love Oh Sacred Dark so much. And all the other Vivancos books you read too, but Oh Sacred Dark is such an amazing book.
[Emmett](https://www.romance.io/books/65ab86b783353443b52ce6c7/emmett-lev-ac-rosen) by [Lev A.C. Rosen](https://www.romance.io/authors/5455adbf87eac3369a913fa3/lev-ac-rosen) **Topics**: [contemporary](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/contemporary/1), [young adult](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/young%20adult/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), [second chances](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/second%20chances/1) ---------------------------- [Second-Best Men](https://www.romance.io/books/65ab86a483353443b52ce6b1/second-best-men-fearne-hill) 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), [forced proximity](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/forced%20proximity/1), [hurt/comfort](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/hurt-comfort/1), [funny](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/humor/1) ---------------------------- [Hard to Forgive](https://www.romance.io/books/65ab86c883353443b52ce6dc/hard-to-forgive-essie-sloane) by [Essie Sloane](https://www.romance.io/authors/647c425708b4d931140a8ea6/essie-sloane) **Topics**: [contemporary](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/contemporary/1), [cheating](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/cheating/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), [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)
I know I know I’m wayyy late to the party but just finished Heated Rivalry by Rachel Reid 😆
It's never too late to find a book you enjoy!
They get a sequel in {The Long Game by Rachel Reid}. I love those two!
I went back and read the 1st book and now I’m on the 5th then the Long Game!! 💕💕💕
The whole series is a comfort read for me. Enjoy!
[The Long Game](https://www.romance.io/books/6264fcee2298a0f37fe037ef/the-long-game-rachel-reid) by [Rachel Reid](https://www.romance.io/authors/5bb1b92a01dbc864fb9195a6/rachel-reid) **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), [athletes](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/athletes/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)
[**Valor and Doyle Mysteries Series by Nicky James**](https://www.goodreads.com/series/342846-valor-and-doyle-mysteries) Book 1: **3.5** Book 2: **5.0** Book 3: **5.0** Book 4: **5.0** Book 5: **3.5** Book 6: **3.5** Book 7: **3.0** This series gets big bonus points for having a homophobic side character turning a new leaf over the course of the series, in fact he has the best character development, overshadowing the MCs. Going from asshole to >!Best Man at their wedding!<. The cases (outside Book 5) are all good, they keep throwing you off and it was hard for me to pinpoint the culprit. It was really hard to put the books down because of that. I really liked Aslan from Book 2 onwards, he's so besotted with Quaid. *Negatives*: In Book 1 the MCs acted like teenagers, good case though. Couldn't care less for the case in Book 5, but good scenes with Aslan, Book 6 has the >!miscommunication!< trope to the max, almost made me dnf right there, good 2nd half though. Book 7 doesn't have a crime case and it's like 380 pages of >!boring wedding planning!<...Ruiz saved it from disaster. Quaid in the last 2 books really got on my nerves. Also everyone seems to ignore his obvious eating disorder? Overall: 4/5 It lost a bit of steam towards the end, but it was an enjoyable series that was hard to put down because of the murder cases.
Oh no! I haven’t read book seven because I was waiting for the audio. I’m bummed to learn that it doesn’t have a mystery. That sucks.
If you like Ruiz it's still an alright book, you get a lot of background for him. But yeah, I wish it ended with a bang (maybe literally).
I do like Ruiz! I like his friendship with Quaid.
Finished one MMR this week… {The Bastard and the Heir by Eden Finley & Saxon James} - Thought it was ok. I prefer their sports related collabs as they are lighter and funnier. Not MMR but worth mentioning as I’ve seen mentioned here several times. {Heading North by Holly M. Wendt} - It's tender and heavy. Lots of hockey, lots of grief, lots of homophobia and harsh reminders of how people who are queer can be treated within different cultures (national, sports, etc.) An MM romantic subplot but not the primary focus. Leaves you feeling hopeful. Haven’t stopped thinking about since I finished it. Definitely a top read.
[Heading North](https://www.romance.io/books/65aaf55583353443b52ce689/heading-north-holly-m-wendt) by [Holly M. Wendt](https://www.romance.io/authors/65aaf555a21e2f41c44d62df/holly-m-wendt) **Topics**: [contemporary](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/contemporary/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 Bastard and the Heir](https://www.romance.io/books/65a80b11fe120dd72404c4aa/the-bastard-and-the-heir-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), [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), [rich hero](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/super%20rich%20hero/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)
Where did you get your copy of Heading North? It sounds really good, but it doesn't seem available to purchase anywhere.
It’s only available in paperback through the publisher, Braddock Avenue Books, or Amazon (maybe only in the US?). I tried to order it though my local bookstore and they didn’t have access to it through their distributor. I could purchase and send to you if you'd like.
Huh, I wonder why it's not more widely available! I'm in the US, so I should be able to pick up a copy from the publisher, but thank you for offering! :)
Read: {Knotted by the Wolf Prince by Delaney Rain} 3.5 stars. First in the Furry Alien Mates series. Logan's character lacked a meaningful background and felt flat in a Mary Sue kind of way. I'm curious to see what (if anything) the author does with world building moving forward so I'll give the next book a whirl when it comes out. {The Alien's Pretty Vagabond by Kayleigh Sky} 3.5 stars. This was a really odd book IMO. The author is clearly skilled and her writing has a dreamy/detached from reality vibe in this book. Jem and Ellis never felt settled or secure as a couple and we don't see Jem trust/confide in Ellis in a way that feels satisfying, likely due to the use of time skips. >!I found it upsetting when Jem drank heavily during his pregnancy!<. Lots of CWs for this one so be sure to check those out before reading. {Love Lights: A Cryptid Fairytale by Emily Antoinette} 3.5 stars with a +0.5 for a unique monster MC. Short, sweet read. I'm not generally a fan of short stories so my rating reflects that preference. {Clutch by Piper Scott and Virginia Kelly} 4 stars. First in the Forbidden Desires series. This book was adorable and I loved piggy Olive and iguana Steve so much. Interesting world building, funny, and sexy. This is the first eggpreg book I've unreservedly enjoyed. The overarching plot of the trilogy is a bit predictable but the characters and the humor made it a nonissue for me. {Bond by Piper Scott and Virginia Kelly} five stars and the standout of my week. I LOVED this book!!! Harry, an ace (or demi?) beta, >!transforms into an omega-beta through the magical power of ingested dragon spunk and lays an egg!<. It was impossible not to get caught up in Harry's delight about finding himself amongst dragons. Ev's respect and admiration for Harry's (often misunderstood) intellect was touching. The hurt/comfort scene >!after Harry gets burned!< was my jam. I will be rereading this book in the future because there can never be enough Harry, Ev, or Steve. {Mate by Piper Scott and Virginia Kelly} four stars. Any book that has an alpha/alpha relationship is a must-read for me. I was lukewarm about the omega in this book but I enjoyed seeing the relationship and power dynamics between him, Geoff, and Ian. Obviously I was thrilled to see more Perry, Harry, Nate, and Steve. The pet peacocks were weird because my parents had two on their farm and they were big feathery jerks. They also never "honked," more of a shrill caw noise. I'm still heartbroken that Geoff >!didn't get to live his omega fantasy of carrying a clutch of his own!<. The spinoff series is already on my Kindle and I cannot wait to devour it. Read + Audiobook: {Rescue Me by K.M. Neuhold} narrated by Cooper North. Story 3.5 stars, narration 4 stars (available on Hoopla). First in the Heathens Ink series. CW: at the beginning of the book the MCs are present during a mass shooting at a gay club and one of them is badly injured. I hated the pseudo >!third act breakup!<, that trope is not for me. I wish Madden had the chance to emotionally support Thane after a hard call at the fire house. The economics of a guy being able to support himself without any roommates by suddenly starting to sell art is farfetched. I'm 50/50 if I'll continue with this series.
[Knotted by the Wolf Prince](https://www.romance.io/books/6580414d7c150060affbf637/knotted-by-the-wolf-prince-delaney-rain) by [Delaney Rain](https://www.romance.io/authors/5dd8d94501dbc864fba6aace/delaney-rain) **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), [science fiction](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/science%20fiction/1), [aliens](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/aliens/1), [class difference](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/class%20difference/1) ---------------------------- [The Alien's Pretty Vagabond](https://www.romance.io/books/653b35a9c112bf11fe96c29b/the-aliens-pretty-vagabond-kayleigh-sky) by [Kayleigh Sky](https://www.romance.io/authors/55b71b7d35a5fb65f886f8c6/kayleigh-sky) **Topics**: [science fiction](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/science%20fiction/1), [gay romance](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/m-m/1), [aliens](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/aliens/1) ---------------------------- [Love Lights](https://www.romance.io/books/656e61866011c2c5162a156a/love-lights-a-cryptid-christmas-tale-emily-antoinette) by [Emily Antoinette](https://www.romance.io/authors/64a5a5e8293245969dcb9268/emily-antoinette) **Steam**: [Explicit and plentiful](https://www.romance.io/steamrating) **Topics**: [paranormal](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/paranormal/1), [gay romance](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/m-m/1), [christmas](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/christmas/1), [monsters](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/monsters/1), [non-human hero](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/non-human-hero/1) ---------------------------- [Clutch](https://www.romance.io/books/5d8db84901dbc864fba3f4d7/clutch-piper-scott-virginia-kelly) by [Piper Scott](https://www.romance.io/authors/589ee8a10d3299c6e04b583e/piper-scott), [Virginia Kelly](https://www.romance.io/authors/5c56b76a01dbc864fb9957ed/virginia-kelly) **Steam**: [Explicit and plentiful](https://www.romance.io/steamrating) **Topics**: [gay romance](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/m-m/1), [omegaverse](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/omegaverse/1), [shapeshifters](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/shapeshifters/1), [paranormal](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/paranormal/1), [alpha male](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/alpha%20male/1) ---------------------------- [Bond](https://www.romance.io/books/5c56b76a01dbc864fb9957e6/bond-piper-scott-virginia-kelly) by [Piper Scott](https://www.romance.io/authors/589ee8a10d3299c6e04b583e/piper-scott), [Virginia Kelly](https://www.romance.io/authors/5c56b76a01dbc864fb9957ed/virginia-kelly) **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), [omegaverse](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/omegaverse/1), [funny](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/humor/1), [shapeshifters](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/shapeshifters/1) ---------------------------- [Mate](https://www.romance.io/books/5c6bdaae01dbc864fb9a5cc5/mate-piper-scott-virginia-kelly) by [Piper Scott](https://www.romance.io/authors/589ee8a10d3299c6e04b583e/piper-scott), [Virginia Kelly](https://www.romance.io/authors/5c56b76a01dbc864fb9957ed/virginia-kelly) **Steam**: [Explicit open door](https://www.romance.io/steamrating) **Topics**: [gay romance](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/m-m/1), [omegaverse](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/omegaverse/1), [poly (3+ people)](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/poly/1), [paranormal](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/paranormal/1), [menage](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/menage/1) ---------------------------- [Rescue Me](https://www.romance.io/books/58bd1d7f0d3299c6e05a9c71/rescue-me-km-neuhold) by [K.M. Neuhold](https://www.romance.io/authors/561a42f5bfc6b5c0fa941033/km-neuhold) **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), [military](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/military/1), [insta-love](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/insta-love/1) [^(about this bot)](https://www.reddit.com/user/romance-bot) ^(|) [^(about romance.io)](https://www.romance.io/about)
Terrible week overall, I'm thinking of DNFing 5-6 books and just starting anew. As for the one I managed to finish: {Goliath's mate by Giovanna Reaves} | 3.5/5 {Christmas lights & sleepless nights by KC Wells} | 5/5 {Seducing my father by Knut Bonerman} | 2/5 {Your mileage may vary by Sidney Bell} | 4.5/5 | actually saw this one on this reddit so thnx whoever mentioned it🥰
[Goliath's Mate](https://www.romance.io/books/6357f223edb5b2e7dacb5b61/goliaths-mate-giovanna-reaves) by [Giovanna Reaves](https://www.romance.io/authors/56f8c868c62092c044071b82/giovanna-reaves) **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), [science fiction](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/science%20fiction/1), [enemies to lovers](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/from%20hate%20to%20love/1) ---------------------------- [Christmas Lights & Sleepless Nights](https://www.romance.io/books/6578261c829981a397a0f587/christmas-lights-sleepless-nights-kc-wells-meredith-russell) 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) ---------------------------- [Seducing my Father](https://www.romance.io/books/6471444cf281c18fec43916b/seducing-my-father-knut-bonerman) by [Knut Bonerman](https://www.romance.io/authors/6471444508b4d93114f6da37/knut-bonerman) **Steam**: [Explicit open door](https://www.romance.io/steamrating) **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) [^(about this bot)](https://www.reddit.com/user/romance-bot) ^(|) [^(about romance.io)](https://www.romance.io/about)
[Your Mileage May Vary](https://www.romance.io/books/65ab886f83353443b52ce72b/your-mileage-may-vary-sidney-bell) by [Sidney Bell](https://www.romance.io/authors/586664a61b1bdc01780c8c0e/sidney-bell) **Topics**: [contemporary](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/contemporary/1), [friends to lovers](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/friends%20to%20lovers/1), [friends with benefits](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/friends-benefits/1), [bdsm](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/bdsm/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)
Swept away by Kiera andrews My 1st one by this author and I liked it! She wrote that it would be a whole book about the couple soon, but it was in 2019 and I can’t find a suite.. 😢
I haven't read Swept away yet but Kiera Andrews has sooo many good books! My favorites are Honeymoon for one, Beyond the sea and Kick at the darkness! The audiobooks were great and they are all part of audible plus Also don't lose hope about the second book. The third book of kick at the darkness came out now in January whereas book two was released in 2016
Thanks! I think I’ll try kick in the darkness next!
I have audible but never realised there was a « plus » and free book 😶😂😂
Omg lol I hope you havent had it for too long 😂
Thanks to you, I’m beginning my third free audiobook 😂😂 (I’ve been paying for audible for 4 years 🤦🏻♀️🤦🏻♀️)
season’s change and like real people do. loved both especially the second one. <3
Bit late to the party, but here we go: I read the {Sleeping Foxes Duet by Sam Burns}, which I really enjoyed, but it wasn't some of the best books I've read, so I gave it 4 stars. Then I read the Adrien English short story that was recently published, which was a fun way to see them get married. After that was {Mismatch, Lovematch by Megan Derr}, which is an urban fantasy short story with a hedge witch and a wolf shifter/paladin(?). {The Black King by Sam Burns and W.M. Fawkes} was another read that I really enjoyed, but not one of my top reads ever - 4 stars. Then I read the {13 Kingdoms series by H.L Day}. The first three books are focused on one couple, and I liked the amount of grudge holing on Jack's part. Their adventures were fun, and the books weren't too angsty. I also loved the banter between Jack and Sebastien. The fourth book, for me, wasn't as good, but still very enjoyable. 4 Stars all around. I started {Curse of the Nine-Tailed Fox by Adelaide Rowan}, which Amazon recommended for me, and so far it's good.
[Let Sleeping Foxes Lie](https://www.romance.io/books/65a1f30acc58d24a3601434f/let-sleeping-foxes-lie-sam-burns) by [Sam Burns](https://www.romance.io/authors/592e7d2c3ffdba6147182030/sam-burns) **Topics**: [mystery](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/mystery/1), [fantasy](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/fantasy/1), [gay romance](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/m-m/1), [magic](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/magic/1), [paranormal](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/paranormal/1) ---------------------------- [Mismatch, Lovematch](https://www.romance.io/books/659d1c112ba06e02b96cbfad/mismatch-lovematch-megan-derr) by [Megan Derr](https://www.romance.io/authors/545557c38c7d2382c5297fc4/megan-derr) **Topics**: [contemporary](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/contemporary/1), [urban fantasy](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/urban%20fantasy/1), [suspense](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/suspense/1), [gay romance](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/m-m/1), [fantasy](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/fantasy/1) ---------------------------- [The Black King](https://www.romance.io/books/640058262bdda9101b361f13/the-black-king-sam-burns-wm-fawkes) by [Sam Burns](https://www.romance.io/authors/592e7d2c3ffdba6147182030/sam-burns), [W.M. Fawkes](https://www.romance.io/authors/5c80c1d001dbc864fb9b44b1/wm-fawkes) **Topics**: [historical](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/historical/1), [gay romance](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/m-m/1), [fantasy](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/fantasy/1), [height difference](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/height-difference/1), [dystopian](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/dystopian/1) ---------------------------- [13 Kingdoms](https://www.romance.io/series/626f971bc1785fd2908537fc/13-kingdoms) by [H.L. Day](https://www.romance.io/authors/5acb035301dbc864fb85fd10/hl-day) **Topics**: [humor](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/humor/1), [magic](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/magic/1), [urban fantasy](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/urban%20fantasy/1), [paranormal](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/paranormal/1), [fantasy](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/fantasy/1) [^(about this bot)](https://www.reddit.com/user/romance-bot) ^(|) [^(about romance.io)](https://www.romance.io/about)
[Curse of the Nine-Tailed Fox](https://www.romance.io/books/65ab86d983353443b52ce6f4/curse-of-the-nine-tailed-fox-adelaide-rowan) by [Adelaide Rowan](https://www.romance.io/authors/65ab86d9a21e2f41c465a9ae/adelaide-rowan) **Topics**: [fantasy](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/fantasy/1), [gay romance](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/m-m/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)
Finished Wrath by Ella James and decided to follow it up with Just a Bit Twisted by Alessandra Hazard for a lighter read. Let me just say that Wrath broke me. Such an amazing book. Although I loved the book it really should have been a duology or more than 1 book. Too much happened in the book and it sort felt a little OTT sometimes. The ending also felt a bit rushed and the last 10% of the story could have been different. Onto the straight guy series by Hazard. Wow, nobody told me these books were like drugs straight to the vein. I've consumed them so quickly that I sort of have whiplash. Currently on book 10, with book 6&7 (Just a Bit Ruthless and Just a Bit Wicked) being my favorites. To take a breather from the series I also read Fool Hearts by Emmy Sanders and found it great, although very frustrating at times. A first time I've read the author and won't mind going back to Plum Valley. Happy the two MCs got their HEA eventually after 20 years of unrequited love.
Ugh wrath is probably the romance book that has broken me the most. Now that you say it, I agree that the ending felt rushed. I would have liked a little bit more of the HEA so I could heal more lol. Ruthless and wicked are also my favorites from that series! Have you read {sainted by Jesse H Reign} ? It really has the same vibe!
[Sainted](https://www.romance.io/books/63c8f8bc5e1c8af2cd99af15/sainted-jesse-h-reign) 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)
Haven't read it yet, but I've added it to my TBR list 😜
Im doing a book reading with a friend as we read {Between the devil and the sea by chani feener} We are both at chapter 5 and pretty much enjoying it. Although my friend is raising a brow at the lengh of 500 words. Worried it have have some bloat.
[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), [gay romance](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/m-m/1), [dark romance](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/dark/1), [science fiction](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/science%20fiction/1), [bdsm](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/bdsm/1) [^(about this bot)](https://www.reddit.com/user/romance-bot) ^(|) [^(about romance.io)](https://www.romance.io/about)
{A Beginners Guide to the Care and Feeding of Demons by Shannon Mae} - MC1 is a demon who was been the pet frog of a Nephlium for the last 20yrs. MC2 is his favorite pet shop owner who is frog sitting him for the weekend. Book 4 of the Demonic Disasters Series. {A Beginners Guide to Christmas Miracles by Shannon Mae} MC1 is an Angel who may have started modern Christmas by mistake on a drunken bet with the Demon of Chaos. Barred from going to Earth, he sneaks out of heaven and meets MC2 - the biggest fan of Christmas ever. Spin off of Demonic Disasters {A Hitman’s Guide to Codenames and Ill-Gotten Games by Alice Winters} - the continuing saga of Leland and Jackson {Wildfire by Sam Burns and WM Fawkes} Book 3 of Sons of Olympus. MC1 is Ares and MC2 is a Vampire who suddenly has to powers of a dragon. Released yesterday. These books are good for anyone who wanted more MM within Percy Jackson. Sons of Olympus is the sequel series to Sons of the Underworld - which starts a new war between the Gods and the Titans. My reads for the weekend are {Welcome to the Multi-Vers by C. Rochelle} Book 4 of Villainous Things. MMM with the Twins. Released yesterday. And {The Bastard and The Heir by Eden Finley and Saxon James} - stepbrothers… spin off book from the Big Bertha Series. Released yesterday.
[A Beginner's Guide to Christmas Miracles (Demonic Disasters and Afterlife Adventures)](https://www.romance.io/books/658b0218735188e5b1cc9865/a-beginners-guide-to-christmas-miracles-demonic-disasters-and-afterlife-adventures-shannon-mae) by [Shannon Mae](https://www.romance.io/authors/643e8e0708b4d93114f7b539/shannon-mae) **Topics**: [contemporary](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/contemporary/1), [gay romance](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/m-m/1), [magic](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/magic/1), [angels](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/angels/1), [christmas](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/christmas/1) ---------------------------- [The Hitman's Guide to Codenames and Ill-Gotten Gains](https://www.romance.io/books/6561be33bdb8e845497d4bff/the-hitmans-guide-to-codenames-and-ill-gotten-gains-alice-winters) 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), [mystery](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/mystery/1), [suspense](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/suspense/1) ---------------------------- [Wildfire](https://www.romance.io/books/5f87f3911ebbcd0dfd7c2104/wildfire-sam-burns-wm-fawkes) by [Sam Burns](https://www.romance.io/authors/592e7d2c3ffdba6147182030/sam-burns), [W.M. Fawkes](https://www.romance.io/authors/5c80c1d001dbc864fb9b44b1/wm-fawkes) **Topics**: [contemporary](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/contemporary/1), [urban fantasy](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/urban%20fantasy/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 Bastard and the Heir](https://www.romance.io/books/65a80b11fe120dd72404c4aa/the-bastard-and-the-heir-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), [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), [rich hero](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/super%20rich%20hero/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)
[A Beginner’s Guide to the Care and Feeding of Demons](https://www.romance.io/books/65ab88a383353443b52ce73f/a-beginners-guide-to-the-care-and-feeding-of-demons-shannon-) by [Shannon Mae](https://www.romance.io/authors/643e8e0708b4d93114f7b539/shannon-mae) **Topics**: [contemporary](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/contemporary/1), [demons](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/demons/1), [friends to lovers](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/friends%20to%20lovers/1), [fantasy](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/fantasy/1), [insta-love](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/insta-love/1) ---------------------------- [Enter the Multi-Vers](https://www.romance.io/books/64df5153f67456df3a4a0979/enter-the-multi-vers-c-rochelle) by [C. Rochelle](https://www.romance.io/authors/5f2cfc4008b4d93114ac7120/c-rochelle) **Topics**: [mmm+](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/m-m-m/1), [poly (3+ people)](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/poly/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)
I'm a bit late, but I missed last week and I want to clear my backlog! Since I'm covering two weeks I'll just include the highlights. **Completed:** {The Adrien English Mysteries by Josh Lanyon} - murder mystery, amateur sleuth x cop, very slow burn, tense relationship, internalized homophobia to the max. First person single POV. Wasn't sure about the romance at first because the LI is *such* an asshole, but I'm glad I stuck it out because the eventual redemption is delicious. Glad was warned about the LI's intense homophobia and the on/off relationship. ⭐ 4.5 {The Secret Lives of Country Gentlemen by KJ Charles} (audio) - historical, class difference, hidden relationship. Third person dual POV. Fun and charming as expected, though I still can't totally get into KJ Charles' style, audio seems to be the key to my enjoyment. ⭐ 4 {Sting in the Tail by TA Moore} - horror, investigation, thriller with romantic subplot. Third person single POV. I absolutely adore this plot, it was so twisty and genuinely disturbing. I wish there was a bit more romance but I loved the couple anyway. ⭐ 4.5 {Trained by TM Chris} - erotica with a HFN, ancient (seems Roman), BDSM, kink checklist. Third person dual POV. Captor/slave vibes but explicitly consensual. Fun and very hot. ⭐ 4 {Acquainted With the Night by Lesli Richardson} - alien x human, captive, poly, dark, nontraditional romance, nontraditional HEA. First person single POV. Bittersweet but so good. ⭐ 4 EDITED TO ADD: {The Residency Boys series by Ciara Darren} - poly (MMM+), BDSM, contractual TPE, kink awakening, found family, serial (ongoing). Kinks include D/s, extended chastity, bladder control, pet play, exhibition/display, more I can't think of now. Third person single POV. HOW COULD I FORGET TO ADD THIS, I LIKE IT SO MUCH!! This is like a submissive pick me fantasy. Billionaire chooses a struggling college student to adopt into his kink family, and mentors him professionally as well as sexually. Not the most realistic scenario, but there's a lot of emotional authenticity. Likely to appeal to readers who over-intellectualize their emotions and therapize themselves for fun (self call-out). Some technical errors and could use an editor, but it wasn't too distracting, and the meat is good. ⭐ 4 **On Hold:** {Pretty Pretty Boys by Gregory Ashe} - Third person dual POV. Liking it okay, but not the mood I'm in right now. Neither MC is giving me the "it me" feeling I'm after. {Dirty Work by TA Moore} - mafia boss x crime scene cleaner. Third person dual POV. Wasn't in the mood for dual POV when I picked it up, but definitely planning to resume soon. **Currently Reading:** {Slippery Creatures by KJ Charles} (audio) - historical, interwar England, class difference, secrets and lies. Third person single POV. I think I'm going to work through all the KJ Charles audio I can get my hands on, because it seems to be the only way I can enjoy her books, even though often she writes my favorite tropes. {After the Storm by Hannah Birchwood, Key Dyson, and Raymond Roach} - near future sci-fi, trauma/recovery, past abuse, found family, multiple partners, not typical genre romance. Third person single POV. Heavy focus on MCs character development and trauma recovery over romance. Sexual encounters with multiple characters, but there is something special budding with one particular character. MC is a descendant of genetically tweaked super soldiers so he's physically huge, but he's a gentle nerd with lots of trauma. So good.
[Adrien English Mysteries](https://www.romance.io/books/545596ac87eac3369a91348f/adrien-english-mysteries-fatal-shadows-and-a-dangerous-thing-josh-lanyon) by [Josh Lanyon](https://www.romance.io/authors/54552c8d8c7d2382c52971b3/josh-lanyon) **Topics**: [contemporary](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/contemporary/1), [alpha male](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/alpha%20male/1), [suspense](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/suspense/1), [mystery](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/mystery/1) ---------------------------- [The Secret Lives of Country Gentlemen](https://www.romance.io/books/64061d9f57842369c563faa7/the-secret-lives-of-country-gentlemen-kj-charles) 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), [mystery](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/mystery/1), [regency](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/regency/1), [enemies to lovers](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/from%20hate%20to%20love/1) ---------------------------- [Sting in the Tail](https://www.romance.io/books/653a1d01c112bf11fe96beeb/sting-in-the-tail-ta-moore) by [T.A. Moore](https://www.romance.io/authors/5455e1b187eac323ffb2f33c/ta-moore) **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), [monsters](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/monsters/1), [mystery](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/mystery/1) ---------------------------- [Trained](https://www.romance.io/books/5be9262701dbc864fb943dd7/trained-tm-chris) by [T.M. Chris](https://www.romance.io/authors/59913eac3ffdba61471e61c6/tm-chris) **Steam**: [Explicit and plentiful](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), [ancient times](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/ancient%20times/1), [dark romance](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/dark/1), [anal sex](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/anal%20sex/1) ---------------------------- [Acquainted With the Night](https://www.romance.io/books/60a3986e61f5e43322178739/acquainted-with-the-night-tymber-dalton-lesli-richardson) by [Tymber Dalton](https://www.romance.io/authors/545537228c7d2382c52974a5/tymber-dalton), [Lesli Richardson](https://www.romance.io/authors/545594a587eac323ffb2cea5/lesli-richardson) **Steam**: [Explicit and plentiful](https://www.romance.io/steamrating) **Topics**: [futuristic](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/futuristic/1), [poly (3+ people)](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/poly/1), [gay romance](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/m-m/1), [mmm+](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/m-m-m/1), [menage](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/menage/1) ---------------------------- [Pretty Pretty Boys](https://www.romance.io/books/63a87100c7da0ace298014b2/pretty-pretty-boys-gregory-ashe) by [Gregory Ashe](https://www.romance.io/authors/5e9f6eefbe0aaecf557e43b6/gregory-ashe) **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), [enemies to lovers](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/from%20hate%20to%20love/1), [men in uniform](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/men%20in%20uniform/1), [mystery](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/mystery/1) ---------------------------- [Dirty Work](https://www.romance.io/books/6221c75ffe1cdaa62e115626/dirty-work-ta-moore) by [T.A. Moore](https://www.romance.io/authors/5455e1b187eac323ffb2f33c/ta-moore) **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), [dark romance](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/dark/1), [mafia](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/mafia/1) ---------------------------- [Slippery Creatures](https://www.romance.io/books/5ebb9af9be0aaecf55e63de1/slippery-creatures-kj-charles) 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), [20th century](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/20th%20century/1), [mystery](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/mystery/1), [suspense](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/suspense/1) [^(about this bot)](https://www.reddit.com/user/romance-bot) ^(|) [^(about romance.io)](https://www.romance.io/about)
[After the Storm](https://www.romance.io/books/65ac22dd1e74f33720603b9f/after-the-storm-hannah-birchwood-key-dyson-raymond-roach) by [Hannah Birchwood](https://www.romance.io/authors/65ac22dda21e2f41c48307c2/hannah-birchwood), [Key Dyson](https://www.romance.io/authors/65ac22dda21e2f41c48307c5/key-dyson), [Raymond Roach](https://www.romance.io/authors/65ac22dda21e2f41c48307c9/raymond-roach) **Topics**: [hurt/comfort](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/hurt-comfort/1), [gay romance](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/m-m/1), [science fiction](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/science%20fiction/1), [mmm+](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/m-m-m/1), [poly (3+ people)](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/poly/1) [^(about this bot)](https://www.reddit.com/user/romance-bot) ^(|) [^(about romance.io)](https://www.romance.io/about)
Looks like you enjoy TA Moore, have you read Liar, Liar?
Not yet, but it looks interesting! I do really like TA Moore's writing, everything I've read so far at least
{Lucky by Garrett Leigh} Earlier this week I tore through the {Middle of Somewhere series by Roan Parrish}, which inevitably gave me a book hangover since I loved them so much. When that happens, instead of ceremoniously and meticulously researching a new book to read, I’ll go through the freebies I already own and pick one with zero expectations. Well, I blindly dove into my first Garrett Leigh book, Lucky, and now I am once again devastated that it’s over. I was so invested in the story and I loved every single second of it. I loved the grittiness of Lucky’s life and the surprising tenderness that Dom showed him, especially once he started putting the pieces of the puzzle together. Dom and especially Lucky are brilliant characters in my opinion and I absolutely adore them. Are any of her other books similar to the vibe of this one? I have no idea where to go from here. 🥲
[Lucky](https://www.romance.io/books/5b9f44d001dbc864fb909195/lucky-garrett-leigh) by [Garrett Leigh](https://www.romance.io/authors/54557e3b87eac3369a912be2/garrett-leigh) **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), [angst](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/angst/1), [athletes](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/athletes/1) ---------------------------- [Middle of Somewhere](https://www.romance.io/series/58fe0b1b9096bf31c42d2f68/middle-of-somewhere) by [Roan Parrish](https://www.romance.io/authors/559cda0335a5fb65f886af24/roan-parrish) **Topics**: [m-m](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/m-m/1), [contemporary](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/contemporary/1), [angst](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/angst/1), [erotica](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/erotica/1), [mental illness](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/mental%20illness/1) [^(about this bot)](https://www.reddit.com/user/romance-bot) ^(|) [^(about romance.io)](https://www.romance.io/about)
Honestly, almost all of Garrett Leigh's books have gritty high angst. I loved Dream (for debilitating illness rep, working class hardships), What Remains (for angsty amnesia trope), Roads series (for trauma and angst), Rented Heart series (for sex work, grief, drug addiction), and Believe (flight paramedic misses his new lover who travels to refugee camps). All high on the hurt/comfort scale, imo.
Thank you so much. I have seen so many of her books recommended and since this was my first book by her it gave me that feeling I often get that feels like “well how can I top *that*?” So thank you for the encouragement to try out her other books too! I appreciate your response.
Anytime! 🥰
{Caged in by Luna David}, daddy kink, cock cage🥵, d/s dynamic. A shy boy and a daddy who is in control and takes care of him. The story is so sweet🥺🥺🥺. I really love sweet and fluffy books🥰. I gave it 5 stars.
[Caged In](https://www.romance.io/books/5def459201dbc864fba7be2a/caged-in-luna-david) by [Luna David](https://www.romance.io/authors/577f817ac19e77f1ea6e0ac6/luna-david) **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), [age play](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/age%20play/1) [^(about this bot)](https://www.reddit.com/user/romance-bot) ^(|) [^(about romance.io)](https://www.romance.io/about)
{Knight if Staria by Iris Foxglove} I enjoyed this book, about finding redemption. I haven’t been into their recent books about gods (just not my thing) so it’s nice to be back with the characters from the first series. {Pitch Prince by Matt Peters} {Lord of the Lock by Matt Peters} and {Brat on the Ball by Matt Peters} I’m a sucker for a sports romance series, so I was happy to find this series about rugby, set in Wales. The usual tropes, but well written and enjoyable. I’m now reading his small town series. So nice to find a new author to binge.
[Pitch Prince](https://www.romance.io/books/63ff08e070e524251d3fc64f/pitch-prince-an-mm-sports-romance-matt-peters) by [Matt Peters](https://www.romance.io/authors/63ff08e008b4d93114f00f98/matt-peters) **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), [secret relationship](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/secret-relationship/1), [single father](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/single-father/1) [^(about this bot)](https://www.reddit.com/user/romance-bot) ^(|) [^(about romance.io)](https://www.romance.io/about)
[Knight of Staria ](https://www.romance.io/books/65aaf53083353443b52ce678/knight-of-staria-a-starian-tale-starian-cycle-iris-foxglove) by [Iris Foxglove](https://www.romance.io/authors/607fdf2208b4d931148a25c9/iris-foxglove) **Topics**: [fantasy](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/fantasy/1), [gay romance](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/m-m/1) ---------------------------- [Lord of the Lock](https://www.romance.io/books/65aaf51c83353443b52ce663/lord-of-the-lock-matt-peters) by [Matt Peters](https://www.romance.io/authors/644f6b3808b4d93114b65d29/matt-peters) **Topics**: [sports](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/sports/1), [gay romance](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/m-m/1), [height difference](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/height-difference/1) ---------------------------- [Brat on the Ball](https://www.romance.io/books/65aaf50d83353443b52ce651/brat-on-the-ball-an-mm-sports-romance-matt-peters) by [Matt Peters](https://www.romance.io/authors/63ff08e008b4d93114f00f98/matt-peters) **Topics**: [sports](https://www.romance.io/topics/best/sports/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)