I was fortunate enough to be one of the "early readers" on this fantastic and helpful book. Whether you’re an established author with an early reader I was fortunate enough to be one of the "early readers" on this fantastic and helpful book. Whether you’re an established author with an early reader process or a newbie just starting out, it’s packed full of useful tips how to organize your alpha, beta and ARC team. Don’t know what those are? Don’t worry, all that will be explained in this story.
I've been doing this author gig for a beat and I thought I had the system down, but this book gave me a new perspective on how to handle my early readers. It's packed FULL of helpful tips that I'll be adding to my toolbox. (And the author even gives you access to all her tools and templates to get started OR get more organized).
Annabelle always writes about real life issues so tenderly.
In this story we first meet Audrey and Blake when they are young newlyweds, so excited forAnnabelle always writes about real life issues so tenderly.
In this story we first meet Audrey and Blake when they are young newlyweds, so excited for their future together.
Unfortunately, as life would sometimes have it, things didn’t work out for them. A tragic accident left Blake paralyzed and in a wheelchair. While trying to navigate things post-accident it all just fell apart (as it so often does). Both Audrey and Blake handled things poorly (as humans often do).
Now, years later, Audrey is engaged to Patrick (who is pretty horrible) and he will be the step-father to their two children. He’s not near the stable father that Blake now is, and it’s obvious that there are unresolved issues and feelings between Audrey and Blake. As the story unfolds, Audrey starts to see more and more of Patrick’s flaws come to light, and how he just can’t compare to Blake.
This was a realistic second chance romance of two people in their forties trying to co-parent together after a divorce. A story that so many readers can relate to.
Annabelle once again knocked it out of the park. A fantastic story from a fantastic author. Loved it. ...more
Freedom has always gone along with the Romani lifestyle. He’s all man. A hard worker. Caring. Compassionate. Funny. Sexy. The whole package.
He meets Freedom has always gone along with the Romani lifestyle. He’s all man. A hard worker. Caring. Compassionate. Funny. Sexy. The whole package.
He meets Essie, another one of the Romani Gypsies from their compound. She’s sexy, feisty, mouthy and takes s$%# from no one. She has dreams for her future that don’t really fit the Romani lifestyle.
Reluctantly, Essie agrees to an arranged marriage with Freedom. A means to an end…a way to get her LITERAL freedom. Meanwhile, Freedom is determined to make her fall for him, for REAL.
Enemies to lovers is my all time favorite trope, and this story did not disappoint. The back and forth between Essie and Freedom is hilarious and sweet, and will have you laughing out loud and getting all the feels.
And can we just give a shout-out to Mami (the best grandmother EVER!). She was such a riot.
This is Misty’s third book in her Traveler’s series, but can be read as a standalone, but do yourself a favor and start at the beginning and read this series NOW....more
Its been a bit since we first met Brantley and Axel in Just Like Breathing and sparks began to fly between the two of them. (If you haven’t read that Its been a bit since we first met Brantley and Axel in Just Like Breathing and sparks began to fly between the two of them. (If you haven’t read that one, I HIGHLY recommend it, but regardless, this one is a fantastic standalone).
We finally get to dive into Brantley’s backstory. As a teen, she became pregnant from her high school gang member boyfriend (Brick). To save herself and her unborn child from this life, she gives the child up for adoption, and flees—thinking only of her daughters safety and happiness above her own.
Brantley grew up, built a life for herself, but as tragedy strikes, she’s now faced with raising her daughter, Eden. Brantley will do everything in her power to protect Eden and keep her safe from her biological father.
And so will Axel.
Axel and Brantley have known each other for a year as friends, but the chemistry between the two of them is undeniable. As hard as she tries, she can’t resist Axel’s charm. He’s a swoony, gorgeous, kind alpha with a heart of gold. And it’s so easy to fall in love with him.
This was a great romantic suspense with a lot of heat and heart. ...more
I’ve been anxiously awaiting Sterling and Cora’s story in this small-town, Southern romance series.
Cora has always had an air of mystery surrounding hI’ve been anxiously awaiting Sterling and Cora’s story in this small-town, Southern romance series.
Cora has always had an air of mystery surrounding her, and now we finally get her backstory. Shrouded in deep, dark family secrets, she could never live up to her family’s expectations, so she bolted. Left town to join the Peace Corps.
Sterling has spent his life trying to prove that he wasn’t his father (the town drunk). He’s worked hard to become a better man, a good cop, someone that will protect the town. And Cora.
These two have always had a thing for one another, but Cora left Sterling at arms-length. When Cora comes home for her best friends wedding they finally succumb to their emotions.
But tragedy strikes. Sterling fears he will never be the man he was before. Cora desperately wants to stand by his side. But how can she do that when he keeps pushing her away?
Will they fight to keep the love they found, or will his injury tear them apart?
An angsty, sexy, heartbreaking wounded-hero romance that shows the sacrifices the brave men in blue are willing to make for those they protect and serve. ...more
Ryder and Crush were best friends, but haven’t spoken in years. (After Ryder kissed his straight best friend).
NoReally great friends to lovers story!
Ryder and Crush were best friends, but haven’t spoken in years. (After Ryder kissed his straight best friend).
Now, they’re playing for the same NFL team and have to learn to get along. But the thing is, neither of them had forgotten the chemistry and heat in that kiss, and when they meet up again, the sparks begin to fly.
Crush’s daughter, the feisty little Brooklyn stole the show and my heart. I love single dad’s in romance, and Crush was a great father to this little spitfire.
I really liked that most of the angst was with Crush’s awful ex. It left for just a sweet, budding romance between Ryder and Crush without unnecessary drama. Just two people, falling in love. And Leigh handled Crush coming out superbly.
Very sweet, sexy and enjoyable read about letting the heart get what it wants....more
This was my first book by Kristine Allen, but it won’t be my last.
Sydney and Alex meet at a bar and hook up for a one-night-stand. Months later, theyThis was my first book by Kristine Allen, but it won’t be my last.
Sydney and Alex meet at a bar and hook up for a one-night-stand. Months later, they meet again when she’s working for her uncle’s foundation (that just so happens to be part of the hockey team franchise).
Of course for Sydney and Alex the heat and chemistry is still there, and undeniable. What starts out as a friends with benefits story blossoms into much more. (And the love scenes are just smoking hot).
I know very little about hockey, (not a huge fan) but you don’t have to be to enjoy this story! It was hot, steamy, funny and romantic. An absolute joy to read!
Not just that, but the story was full of twists and turns I wasn’t expecting, and I could not put it down!
Also, there is a great supporting cast of characters that tie into her other novels (and I’m a sucker for some great world building). It’s not necessary to read Kristine’s other series, but I wish I’d started at the beginning of her list just because all these characters seem so amazing. So, I’m going to remedy that right away and hit up her backlist.
Fantastic story, fantastic writing. Off the charts sexy. All around, an amazing read....more
Enemies to lovers is my favorite type of story to read. I was so excited for Like a Boss.
Luke and Ellie went to college together. Luke was the popularEnemies to lovers is my favorite type of story to read. I was so excited for Like a Boss.
Luke and Ellie went to college together. Luke was the popular, pretty-boy who came from wealth and privilege, and Ellie was the “frumpy” girl who had to fight tooth and nail to get accepted into an Ivy League school. Ellie immediately dismisses him and his brash temperament, thinking he’s only full of himself, but actually, Luke has the brains to back it up. They seemingly hate each other, and Luke loves to push her buttons. But even in their state of hating one another the chemistry was starting to bubble under the surface. These two obviously connect on an intellectual level, but Ellie can’t see past the own frizz in her hair to think that he’d ever be interested in her.
Years later, Luke winds up as Ellie’s boss. And he’s changed. An accident has left him a quadriplegic, but he’s still that same smart, witty guy who she loved to debate back in the day. He admits to having a huge crush on her when they were young, and feelings start to develop. I loved watching their relationship grow.
As in all Annabelle’s books, she’s got great dialogue and wonderful chemistry between the characters when they are on page together. You can’t help but root for their HEA.
Annabelle is not just a one-click author for me, she’s a “I’ll read it more than once author.” Once again, she knocked it out of the park with an amazing story. Loved it!...more
This is the third book I’ve read in the Opposites Attract series and it did not disappoint.
Will and Cindy start out hating each other, but they also This is the third book I’ve read in the Opposites Attract series and it did not disappoint.
Will and Cindy start out hating each other, but they also can’t deny the physical chemistry between the two of them. Enemies to lovers is my favorite kind of book to read, and the banter between the two of them was epic.
Will is a recovering addict struggling to find himself and heal from his past. He’s handsome, charming, funny and also a chef (who doesn’t love a man that can cook?)
Cindy is a model, who comes from wealthy roots and the complete opposite of what will did.
As will said, “She’s has a pretty cover but she’s a closed book…afraid her words are shallow, as skin-deep as her beauty.”
It took me a bit to warm to her, only because at first she seemed a bit self-absorbed, but as we get to know her we realize (just like Will) that there is more than what is on the surface. Cindy says it best: “ She’s a closed book, but she’ll spread her pages for him if he promises to savor each line.”
The prose in this is superb. “What made his heart hammer was her honest, gleeful smile. A guy would be tempted to sell his soul to taste it against his mouth.”
And hilarious: “It’s the one I use to shave my nether regions….you’re supposed to be scandalized.”
I have so many other lines that I highlighted that were just fantastic, but you’re gonna have to read it yourself.
I loved getting glimpses of characters that we’ve fallen for in the past (Jacob and Greta, Tanner and Maggie). DK Marie has created an amazing cast of characters that I want to hang out with on the lake in Michigan. People that I’d want to be friends with.
Absolutely loved it! Can’t wait for more from DK Marie!...more
Annabelle always brings all the feels and I love every one of her stories. Not only is she a one-click author for me, but many of her books I re-read,Annabelle always brings all the feels and I love every one of her stories. Not only is she a one-click author for me, but many of her books I re-read, which is rare for me.
This story was phenomenal.
We meet Alex and Nellie right away and they’ve got chemistry, but sadly Nellie learns that Alex isn’t single, and he’s about to propose to his long-term girlfriend.
Then the unthinkable happens. A tragic injury steals everything away from him, including his fiancée.
Four years later, his ex is getting married to a horrible man. Alex knows he probably won’t win her back, but he needs to try and save her from making a horrible mistake.
So, as fate would have it Nellie and Alex meet again. I won’t spoil how it all happens. The two of them wind up going on a mission to the wedding to rescue his ex from a bad marriage. And that is when Alex and Nellie’s love story begins to bloom.
The thing that I love about Annabelle’s stories is that she shows that life is always worth living, regardless of the circumstances. Yeah, Alex’s injury is a tough pill to swallow, and he doesn’t fit the mold of a traditional hero in a love story. Which is why it makes the story so wonderful. Annabelle gives us hope. You can always find a happily ever after.
Yes, this book does start out with a bit of a punch to the gut. But this is an Annabelle story, so we know she’s gonna bring all the laughs, tears and feels along the way to give us a very satisfying read, with very happy ending.
All the feels. Love, love, love this book. ...more
After reading Audrey’s first book in the Down South series, I was anxiously awaiting Deacon and Millie’s story. Just from their funny back and forth bAfter reading Audrey’s first book in the Down South series, I was anxiously awaiting Deacon and Millie’s story. Just from their funny back and forth banter in the first book, I knew this would be a hot one.
Deacon and Millie have hated each other since they were kids. Deacon has always loved to rile this girl up and pick on her. Millie always thought it was due to her curves when she was younger, but secretly Deacon has always had a thing for her and loved every one of those curves on her body.
What started as a schoolboy crush for him in adolescence turned into him picking on Millie, and for years, it just kinda grew and grew into this monster of an issue between the two of them, and they never could quite get along.
So, of course as fate (and Deacon’s sister a.k.a Millies best friend) would have it, these two wind up sharing a room on a cruise where they get to duke it all out.
Sparks start to fly as they are forced to spend time together, and one thing leads to another for some off the charts chemistry.
Enemies to lovers is my favorite type of romance, and I adore the banter between the two of them. This was a hot, steamy, fun read. I loved watching Deacon go from the player who lands a lot of chicks to a one-woman man.
I love the characters in this series, and they’ve grown to be my family. I can’t wait for the next book!...more
First time reading Misty Walker and I’m so impressed. I read a small teaser she posted online and laughed so much, I immediately one-clicked the firstFirst time reading Misty Walker and I’m so impressed. I read a small teaser she posted online and laughed so much, I immediately one-clicked the first book in the series. I needed to get to know this crazy, awesome family.
This was such a brilliant opposites attract story—unlike anything I’ve ever read.
I laughed out loud watching as the free-spirited, bohemian, Thea (or as Law calls her “trouble”) turn this strait-laced, corporate, stuffy, germaphobe man’s world upside-down. I cheered for her as he held her hand and helped her grow into the woman she always knew she was. I adored watching Law grow from an uptight man who’d never known (or understood) love, to a man who was kind, caring and willing to give up everything for her.
I think the most beautiful part of this story, is not once did they ever try and change each other. They were both considerate of how the other person was wired, and because they loved each other, they took the flaws in stride. (I mean, after the meal that Thea made…Law could have easily kicked her to the curb…but he didn’t). The changes that each of them personally made were because they cared so deeply for the other. They both became the best versions of themselves when they were a team.
Beautifully written and such a fun read. I flew threw it.
Now I’m off to read the next in the series because I just can’t get enough of this quirky, Romani family. ...more
The one that got away. That’s what Beau and Callie were to each other.
Heart is still broken from her first love, Beau, she’s slowly rebuilt her life The one that got away. That’s what Beau and Callie were to each other.
Heart is still broken from her first love, Beau, she’s slowly rebuilt her life from the ashes he left her in. Her entire life, Callie has dreamed of the perfect wedding. Now, she’s so close to walking down the aisle. But with her fiancé’s hot and cold emotions it’s becoming clearer every day that he’s not to be the Prince Charming that she imagined.
Beau left the small town of Daphne to pursue a career in football, to hopefully provide for his family a better life than what he had growing up. It killed him to leave Callie behind, but young, and the town misfit, he felt that he wasn’t good enough for her. He was young and did what he thought was right.
The thing is…he had NO CLUE what the path of destruction he was leaving for Callie in his wake.
But now he’s back in town, and once he lays eyes on his love from the past, he’s ready to try and claim her heart once again and rescue her from a horrible man. But can she ever forgive him for the damage he caused?
I absolutely adore second chance romances and this one tugged at my heartstrings! SO MUCH hurt in the past for these two (and I can’t say more because…spoilers). And loved watching Beau and Callie try and rebuild from the wreckage.
And the secondary characters were also amazing. I want an Earl in my life, such a wise, kind loving man and a group of friends that you’ll want to be a part of.
I can’t wait for the rest of the books in this series!...more
I absolutely adored this story. This book is just so well written. DK knows how to wield words like a skilled swordsman.
Maggie was my type of heroineI absolutely adored this story. This book is just so well written. DK knows how to wield words like a skilled swordsman.
Maggie was my type of heroine. Strong. Feisty. Goal-driven. She’s a bit closed off in her feelings at times, but she’s been burned in the past, and it leaves her a little jaded.
“Hard to write what you don’t believe in. You’re like an atheist trying to write a poem about God.”
She truly doesn’t believe in love. Also, she’s not willing to risk losing the band that she’s worked so hard for. But she meets Tanner, her opposite in almost every way, but can’t help but fall for him. Her heart is torn between Tanner and her dream.
And it’s so easy to see how she falls for Tanner. He’s just an amazing hero. Gorgeous, kind, and he’s got such an amazing wit and dry sense of humor. I loved Tanner SO much.
Also I adored all the secondary characters in this one. Maggie’s brother had me rolling in he scene where he meets Maggie’s family. I was laughing so much at Tanner’s comments after the fact.
The story is just real. The conflict, I understood deeply. Both Tanner and Maggie have their goals, and the relationship between them two doesn’t fit into either equation. I felt their pain. HOW can we make this work and still have it all?
“I could love you if you’d let me” - GOD this line about summed it all up. It broke my heart when Tanner thought this. I was like YES YES, please let him love you.
“He wouldn’t tell her he loved her, wouldn’t even think it, but dammit, he’d cherish her body.” GOD this scene got me in the feels.
I was rooting for these two to make it the entire story.
I loved, loved loved the second book in the Opposites Attract series. I loved that we got engaging, real, raw emotional characters that you could put yourself in their shoes.
“Apart they were an incomplete melody. Together they were a unique, wondrous love song.”
Fantastic book. Bravo DK Marie. I can’t wait for the next story in this series. ...more
Tate and Emmie work together in a hardware company called Nuts & Bolts, a predominantly male dominated company. Emmie feels the Such a fantastic read!
Tate and Emmie work together in a hardware company called Nuts & Bolts, a predominantly male dominated company. Emmie feels the constant need to prove herself. Something that so many women can relate to. Tate doesn’t help the situation. At first he comes off abrasive, cocky and as rude (as many of the other men in the office have been to her). Tate is pretty much public enemy #1 in the to Emmie, so of course fate would have it that they’re forced to work on a project together.
Emmie is my type of heroine. Feisty, funny, strong. Great sense of humor & sarcasm. Good work ethic, totally the type of gal I can relate to. Especially because she feels so much of the time that she’s faking her way through life, that people don’t really know her. That she's got to put on this tough facade, but the thing is, it's not a facade, it's who she is. Emmie is strong. She is smart. She's brilliant. She’s not afraid to tell these men exactly how she feels.
Tate comes off at first a bit alpha. I like the strong, silent ones. You never really know what’s going through their head, and it makes them that much more desirable. He’s brooding, anti-social, quiet and at times a bit abrasive, but he’s got his reasons, (and I won’t spoil the book by telling you what they are, because honestly I didn’t see it coming. Sarah kept me guessing until the end as to WHY he was so cold to Emmie at first and why he fought his attraction so long).
Both of these two have issues opening up to people. Trust is a biggie for them. I loved watching their relationship blossom as they both learned to trust each other more.
Enemies to lovers is my all time favorite type of romance to read and I loved how their relationship unfolded. No unnecessary drama, just two people finally becoming honest and open.
And oh my lordy, the bedroom scenes were off the charts hot. I knew they’d be great (I’ve read Sarah’s stuff from her blog and this is where she shines bright).
The cover is absolutely freaking perfect for this book. It fits Emmie to a tee. Such an amazing debut novel by a talented author. I can’t wait to read what she comes up with next. ...more
Annabelle is a one-click author for me. For years I’ve adored her books and I look forward to her holiday novels!
I squealed in excitement when I saw tAnnabelle is a one-click author for me. For years I’ve adored her books and I look forward to her holiday novels!
I squealed in excitement when I saw this was a modern day Scrooge retelling. A Christmas Carol is my absolute favorite holiday story and I was eagerly anticipating this read.
Such a great story! I absolutely loved it!
I loved the twist having a female Scrooge. She made me as the female reader empathize with Ebbie and understand why she’d gotten to the point in her life where she was so miserable. It’s not an easy task to make your readers fall for a prickly character, but this author did it splendidly.
I loved the modern day way that each spirit visited her. So clever!
And Tim, oh Tim. Swoon. He’s not tiny. He’s handsome, sweet and sexy and has the biggest heart.
If you’re looking for a warm, entertaining holiday read that will warm your heart, I suggest that you pick this up....more
Another heart-wrenching read from Audrey Ravine. She brings all the feels in this novella.
Josh and Sadie meet one night at a party (seriously adorablAnother heart-wrenching read from Audrey Ravine. She brings all the feels in this novella.
Josh and Sadie meet one night at a party (seriously adorable meet-cute). The sparks fly but the big problem is Josh has signed his life over for his country. He had plans. He never expected to meet Sadie and fall head over heels for this girl. Sadie’s life was just getting started. Her schedule was demanding and she had a future to plan for, but love found her.
Can a long distance relationship work between these two?
I can’t tell you without getting into spoilers, so you’ll just have to read it for yourself. Hidden Letters is a story about young love, undeniable chemistry and sacrifice. Audrey will rip your heart to shreds then put it back together again. ...more
Ever since we first met Nova, I’ve been anticipating her story in the Healing series.
The book starts out with the death of Nova’s estranged father. AEver since we first met Nova, I’ve been anticipating her story in the Healing series.
The book starts out with the death of Nova’s estranged father. As his only surviving relative, she is forced to head to Virginia to deal with his estate—but ends up finding there is much more to her fathers sordid past than she bargained for.
Liam and Nova are both haunted by personal issues that happened in their past. Both have felt tragic loss in their lives. Liam has brutally lost someone he loved. This causes Liam to want to protect Nova from the same fate. The problem? Nova’s life of rejection has hardened her. She’s a badass chick, who feels as if she doesn’t need to be protected—since she’s always had to look out for number one. It’s a great combination of conflict, causing them struggle as their feelings for each other deepen.
This is a bit of a slow-burn compared to Audrey’s other books, but I loved the anticipation and the excitement of the will-they-won’t they. You can feel the heat sizzling between Liam and Nova, and trust me, the payoff is worth the wait. Add in the suspense of Russian mobsters and you’ve got one helluva page turner here. So, read this, but better yet, start out with Zac’s story in Healing scars and get to know all these wonderful characters. You won’t be disappointed. ...more
I went into this book blind, but was forewarned about the triggers that would be in it. I knew that it would be dark and disturbing. I knew this was NI went into this book blind, but was forewarned about the triggers that would be in it. I knew that it would be dark and disturbing. I knew this was NOT a romance. I knew that there was no happy ending. I was prepared for the darkness I was about to dive into.
What I wasn’t prepared for is how much I’d love Curtis. How my heart would ache for him. How enraged I would be at the life that he had to endure. He deserved more from life.
“You look at me and see a monster, but what I am is a Survivor.”
This captures him perfectly. I don’t condone what Curtis did. Even he knows what he did was unforgivable. BUT you see over and over again how society and the system failed this child. Years and years of torment and abuse chipped away at his humanity bit by bit. Once his last thread of sanity was frayed, he broke.
I can’t even fathom the gut wrenching, emotional journey that Radcliff went through when writing this, but she executed it flawlessly. Hat’s off to her because it’s a story that needed told, and she had the guts to write it.
It’s a story of loss, heartache, pain, tragedy and then finally, redemption. It will leave you broken and torn apart with your mind spinning.
This is not an easy summer, at-the-beach-toes-in-the-sand kind of book, but it’s a story worth reading. ...more
The book starts out with Natalie and her boyfriend, Chase, heading out to a remote, luxury cabin in the woods for a romI absolutely loved this story!
The book starts out with Natalie and her boyfriend, Chase, heading out to a remote, luxury cabin in the woods for a romantic weekend together. Disaster strikes when a blizzard hits and they become trapped in their vehicle with no way out.
Enter Jake—a shadowy figure emerges out of the snowy haze and rescues them, giving them food and shelter in his cabin.
Is Jake the bad guy or good guy? That is the question that looms in Natalie’s mind as the days pass in the cabin with this gruff, mysterious stranger. It’s obvious that Jake is not who he claims to be.
The twists and turns in this book will keep you guessing until the very end.
I absolutely love anything that Annabelle writes but I seriously swooned over Jake in this story! He’s just the kind of dark, brooding, mysterious character that I love.
Amazing story, engaging characters, wonderful dialogue and lots of intrigue. I loved it. ...more
Greta and Jacob meet one rainy day when he comes to work at her wealthy parents home. An unlikely pair, a blueWhat an amazing opposites attract story!
Greta and Jacob meet one rainy day when he comes to work at her wealthy parents home. An unlikely pair, a blue collar man and this woman raised in privilege, but their chemistry is undeniable. They both succumb to their lust on a stormy afternoon.
They meet again one day when that steamy afternoon comes back to haunt them when Jacob becomes one of Greta’s father’s clients. They try to keep things professional, but their feelings for each other are too hard to deny.
Add in a snobby mother and stepfather, and a horrible douchebag ex-finance that are trying to ensure their relationship fails at all costs, and the fact her father is not only Greta’s boss, but Jacob is his client and you have a recipe for some great emotional tension.
Both have some intense fears. Jacob can’t help but feel that he can never fit into Greta’s wealthy world. And Greta needs to learn to grow up, and separate herself from her overbearing family. I loved watching her grow and evolve into a strong, independent woman.
This is a dynamite debut story full of heart, laughter, love, steam and DK Marie’s eloquent, amazing prose. Such a talented writer and we are bound to see great things from her. Amazing job, I can’t wait to read the rest of the series. ...more
Annabelle is a one click author for me. I know that every time I read one of her books it’s gonna suck me in. I love her quick wit, unique storylines Annabelle is a one click author for me. I know that every time I read one of her books it’s gonna suck me in. I love her quick wit, unique storylines and her engaging characters.
This is Annabelle’s first story with a blind character (who also was a veteran) and I couldn’t wait to read it.
We meet Sophie, a sweet librarian who loves to read to children and enjoys her job. Sophie is also badly disfigured from an accident as a child.
Colin former veteran and a hottie, blinded in the line of duty. He goes to the library in search of some braille books for practice after his parents urge him to get out of the house.
They meet, sparks fly and it has all of the great chemistry between a couple that you’d expect from one of Annabelle’s novels.
Yes, at first I feared the setup would be a bit cliche, and you KNOW the inevitable fall-out is coming about Sophie not revealing her disfigurement to Colin. But Annabelle never disappoints. As usual, the author tackles a difficult subject with dignity and humor and keeps the pages turning with her compelling storyline not only with the main conflict of the couple, but the individual conflicts the characters are going through.
Because of her disfigurement, Sophie has been shunned her entire life and had to endure judgment. But in spite of all this she’s happy, and loves the person she is on the inside. Still, her looks cause issue when having to work in a position with facing the public on a daily basis. She deals with rude bosses, mean girls and work drama.
At the same time Colin is fighting for his independence from overbearing parents, trying to come to grips with his blindness.
I love how all this internal conflict adds to the richness and depth of her character development. We really get to know these characters and the struggles that each of them face on a daily basis, and understand WHY they make the choices they do. THAT is what is so great about all Annabelle’s books. Her characters aren’t perfect. They make mistakes. They’re REAL people. That is how you know her books will NEVER be boring.
Such a beautiful, heartwarming story, with the wit and humor you’d expect sprinkled in from one of Annabelle’s books. ...more
The book starts out with a bang. Worst. Morning Ever. All of us have had one of those days, where everything that can go wrong does. Lili is late for The book starts out with a bang. Worst. Morning Ever. All of us have had one of those days, where everything that can go wrong does. Lili is late for work, gets an email that her parents are stranded overseas and need money, and she quickly sends them the funds…
Well, she was understandably upset once she found out the entire thing was a scam and her entire nest egg is GONE. Add to it that Lili loses her steady job. Things are looking quite grim for our heroine. Thankfully her bestie Charlie steps up and gets her a killer job at her father’s publishing company.
The problem? Troy Miller is INSANELY hot. SILVER FOX. Lily can’t keep him out of her mind and out of her dreams at night.
The bigger problem? Mr. Miller starts to feel the same way about Lili.
I love angsty drama, and the fact that this not only is an age gap boss/employee story but add into it that Troy is not only Lily’s boss, but her best friends’ father…that brings all kinds of juicy drama to the table when the you-know-what hits the fan…
I won’t spoil the entire plot for you. Age gap stories aren’t typically my jam, but I love Audrey’s words and read everything she writes. She has the knack for writing some SMOKING HOT love scenes, and this book delivers PLENTY of those. I thoroughly enjoyed this story, so Audrey you’ve won me over with the trope!...more
I’ve loved all the books in the Magical Love series, and I hate to pick favorites, but I knew two chapters into Howl With Me that this one was gonna bI’ve loved all the books in the Magical Love series, and I hate to pick favorites, but I knew two chapters into Howl With Me that this one was gonna be my favorite.
I’ve been in the same situation as Theo, and I have to say that this author NAILED it spot on. There were moments that brought me to tears because I FELT SO MUCH of what Theo was feeling. I’ve been that woman, fleeing for her life from an abusive ex with her babies, and there were times I had to put it down, take a breath, and come back. But Dixie handles this with such tact. AND there is a light at the end of the tunnel.
Frankie. OH MY LORD this little “pup” has stolen my heart. (Because “toys and ice cream and sh*#). I literally LOL’d at the things that would come out of this spitfire’s mouth.
And Deacon is just all KINDS of masculine. Tortured. Wounded. FEELS so much. My kind of swoon worthy hero, in need of redemption.
Woman is mate. Child is pup. I SWOONED.
I didn’t think that a couple could compare to Ty and Nya, but this little family has stole my heart.
I absolutely LOVE the world that Dixie has created. I wish I had some madjick so I could take residence in Maryvell because all these characters are folk that I’d want to be friends with. She’s created such an amazing TRIBE. Full of love, friendship and OMG the humor. There were moments that Dixie had me rolling in laughter…
“A two hundred plus-year old vampire driving a minivan.” I was ROLLING.
“I’d forgotten how eerie Bodie was. If Striker was a freak show, Bodie was the mothership.”
NEED Striker’s story. STAT. You hear me Dixie???
I can’t wait for the rest of the books in this series. I’m hooked like heroin. ...more
This was such a great extension of Jane and Trey’s story.
I love how we get a glimpse into how Zac and Tyler are doing as well. I fell in love with thThis was such a great extension of Jane and Trey’s story.
I love how we get a glimpse into how Zac and Tyler are doing as well. I fell in love with those two in Healing Scars and it’s nice to see that they’re doing so well, and that Jane and Tyler are becoming friends.
I could really relate to Jane and the pain she feels even on the happiest day of her life. When you’re living and one close to you isn’t there to share in that joy—it’s rough. Like always though Trey is there to offer tenderness when needed. I absolutely adore these two and the love they share.
We also get a glimpse into what the future books hold in this series with Nova—just enough to keep us guessing. Excited to see where the series will take us as readers.
Sweet, wonderful, fantastic, heartwarming Valentines read. I look forward to the next book in the series. Great job Audrey....more
I freaking loved this book. The first in the series, Perfect Ex-Boyfriend is one of my favorite reads. Noah is just so masculine, sexy, yet the right I freaking loved this book. The first in the series, Perfect Ex-Boyfriend is one of my favorite reads. Noah is just so masculine, sexy, yet the right amount of soft and kind and caring when needed. He's the full package (well, minus two legs, but still, that doesn't diminish his sex appeal at ALL). He's definitely in the book-boyfriend hall of fame.
I was so excited for this sequel and Annabelle did not disappoint. We get to watch as our favorite couple Bailey and Noah grow closer as a couple and prepare to walk down the aisle and become a family. (Also, side note: Most EPIC proposal ever.)
Noah adores Lily, and wants to be her father, problem is, she's got a father, but not a great one. As much as he despises Theo, Noah constantly tries to take the high road and do what is in the best interest of his soon to be stepdaughter. The moments between Noah and Lily are sweet and tender as we watch him dive into fatherhood. Swoon worthy. (Again Book Boyfriend hall of fame worthy.)
The author handles the trials and tribulations of trying to navigate the murky waters of a blended family, something a majority of people these days can relate to. I've been that single mom, burnt out, exhausted of doing it all alone then suddenly trying to figure out how the ex-husband and new father both work together, and what is best for the child. It's not easy. That's what made this book so real.
Theo's presence in their lives put a serious strain on Noah and Bailey's relationship. There were times my heart broke as both Noah and Bailey messed it all up, even though they were both just trying to do what is best. Thankfully though, love prevails.
Great story. Great plot. Amazing characters. Once again Annabelle knocks it out of the park....more
After reading the first two books I was so excited to hear that Rowena’s story was coming! She was such a captivating character in the first two I couAfter reading the first two books I was so excited to hear that Rowena’s story was coming! She was such a captivating character in the first two I couldn’t wait to get my paws on this book.
I loved getting her backstory. Warning it’s dark, tragic and it will break your heart. BUT what it does more than that is show her resilience. Her will to survive and rise above the shaft that she is handed in life. She’s so strong, and so beautiful. I love Ro as a person.
Griffin, GAH. I love him. My heart has grown more for him in each book. Jury was out on him in first story, but now he’s won my heart.
I loved how Radcliff weaves in the timeline from the previous two books, you get to see what Griff and Ro were going through during Ryder and Lydia’s stories. You do NOT have to read those to enjoy this, but I recommend that you do just to get the full picture. It will mean SO much more if you have (and they’re fantastic books…so you should anyway). What I liked is that it explained WHY certain characters were forced into the situations that they were by Jared. It answered all those questions I had lingering.
Fantastic read. Fantastic characters. Well done. I can't wait to see what this author does next!...more
loved Trey and Jane’s story. After reading Healing Scars and getting a glimpse at the sexy, tatted-up, brooding ex-soldier, Trey, I was eagerly await loved Trey and Jane’s story. After reading Healing Scars and getting a glimpse at the sexy, tatted-up, brooding ex-soldier, Trey, I was eagerly awaiting his story.
(Side note: You don’t have to read Healing Scars to enjoy this story, but I recommend you do, because it’s just as phenomenal as Goodbye, Trey.)
Now. Let’s talk about Trey. Holy hell that man is one fine piece of man. Sexy, flawed, layered and just how I like my alphas—a tortured soul. Abandoned by his wife while he was off serving his country, he’s sworn off love and commitment. Problem is that nobody except his closest brothers in arms know what he went through, not even his sister, who just so happens to be getting married and guess who’s the maid of honor. Yup. The ex.
What comes next is a rollercoaster ride of emotion as he strikes up a deal with a client—Jane—to be his “mock” girlfriend to the wedding. Of course, there is chemistry there (we wouldn’t have a story without it). So they enter a FWB arrangement. Of course though lines get blurred as emotions get involved.
Now, let’s talk about the boinkage. Because it’s HOT. Audrey has suck a knack for writing off the charts, smoking-hot sex scenes and this book delivers.
This is my third book by Audrey and she’s grown as a writer with each story. She’s an up and coming author to keep an eye on. Wonderful story, wonderful characters. I look forward to the next one in the series!...more
This is the sequel to When Darkness Consumes, and you MUST read that first, so if you haven’t drop whatever your’e doing and go read it.
Now, about theThis is the sequel to When Darkness Consumes, and you MUST read that first, so if you haven’t drop whatever your’e doing and go read it.
Now, about the story.
First, Radcliff left us hanging after WDC with where Ryder and Lydia were relationship wise, and my heart needed their HEA, but like everything with these two, it’s not going to be easy. It’s FULL of the angst and will torture you. (Not like the torture in the first book, thank GOD because my soul could NOT handle watching these beloved characters go through that again). No, it’s our reader torture and angst. This book had me all over the place emotionally. It would take me from happy on one page to heartbroken on the next. At one point I had to put the kindle down and walk away because OMFG Ryder and Lydia were LITERALLY killing me. I wanted to reach through the pages of this novel and shake these two and tell them to stop running from each other. I’m not gonna tell you what happens, I’m just gonna say you need to strap yourself in for the emotional rollercoaster and hold on tight.
Second, I was left in the first book torn on Griffin and how I felt about him. Griffin plays a bigger role in this story, and I definitely warmed up to him. He’s still a bit of an enigma, but I consider him one of the good guys. I have a feeling we’ll be getting more of him in Ghost Girl’s upcoming story…so I’ll wait (not very patiently) for that one.
Lastly, I NEEDED to see Jared served the vengeance he deserved. Well, I’m not going to tell you because SPOILERS. You’ll just have to read for yourself.
This was my first read by Radcliff, and I couldn't put this book down.
I was immediately hooked and drawn into Lydia’s story. I was rooting for her anThis was my first read by Radcliff, and I couldn't put this book down.
I was immediately hooked and drawn into Lydia’s story. I was rooting for her and Ryder from the beginning but also very skeptical. This book has you trusting no one, which speaks volumes on this authors ability to put you into the head of the heroine.
With every corner we’d turn, I’d wait with bated breath, because you could feel the tension looming…knowing it was all about to fall apart.
And boy does it.
I thought I was prepared. I wasn’t.
When the darkness comes I wept for Lydia. I wanted to turn my head and shield myself from the devastation, but like her, I had to endure. I longed for justice for her.
This book left me raw, empty, vulnerable and in so much pain. But, I think as the reader that’s exactly where I was supposed to be. You can’t read about what Lydia went through and not be put right into her mental state.
I’m still left with so many questions that need answered, but I know they’re coming.
I’m ready to watch Lydia rise from the ashes and get her revenge, because my GOD she deserves it....more