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Houses of Deception (The Madeline Dawkins Mystery Series Book 6) by Cynthia Hamilton – Review by Karyn Taylor

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Houses of Deception (The Madeline Dawkins Series Book 6)Houses of Deception by Cynthia Hamilton
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Houses Of Deception is the 6th instalment of the Madeline Dawkins Series by Cynthia Hamilton. This is a series that I have loved from the very first book and this series just keeps getting better and better with each new book. I absolutely loved Houses Of Deception.
Madeline Dawkins (Now Delaney having married her business partner Mike Delaney) and Mike run a detective agency, MDPI, together in addition to Madeline’s party planning business. In this story a couple who have an elaborate wedding anniversary party organised by Madeline and her sidekick Lauren, become the centre of a disappearance/kidnap investigation.
As with the previous books in the series Mike and Madeline are involved in two cases at the same time, making this book action packed and constantly moving. There is always something going on and the action never stops keeping you gripped to the story and entertained throughout.
I loved this book. Both cases that they were investigating were captivating and I really enjoyed reading the way that Mike and Madeline, and their associate Samir meticulously worked through their cases, examining the evidence and trying to work out where to go next.
I really hope that Cynthia Hamilton keeps this series going as I’ve really enjoyed all 6 books in this series so far.

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Sinful Daughter (Dark Mafia Sins Book 1) by Emily Bowie – Review by Karyn Taylor

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Sinful DaughterSinful Daughter by Emily Bowie
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Sinful Daughter is a fantastic contemporary romance novel by Emily Bowie. I do love a good mafia romance and this book had it all. I had never read of Emily Bowie’s writing before this book and I can say I will definitely be reading more in the future as I thoroughly enjoyed Sinful Daughter.
Theo Fox is a good cop and his ambition is to bring down the two big mafia families in the city: the Rossi’s and the Mancini’s. SO what happens when he meets the gorgeous Aria Rossi, eldest daughter of Nicoli Ross, head of the mafia family. Theo is still determined to bring the family down but how can he do that and fall in love with Aria at the same time.
Lawyer Aria Rossi is the only Rossi sibling who is not involved in the family business and is conflicted as to what her future holds. She certainly didn’t expect that future to include hot cop Theo Fox.
I loved reading Theo and Aria’s story. It is full of drama, intrigue and danger and all the things you expect from a good mafia story. I was pulled into this story from the very start and loved the roller coaster journey that it took me on right up to the very end.
I definitely recommend this book, especially if you like a mafia romance.

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An Enduring Love by Wareeze Woodson – Review by Karyn Taylor

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An Enduring LoveAn Enduring Love by Wareeze Woodson
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

An Enduring Love is a great historical romance novel by Wareeze Woodson. I have recently become a fan of Wareeze Woodson and her books have made me a fan of historical romance which I wasn’t very keen on before.
I really enjoyed Rebecca and Rhys’ story. I have to say that for a while I was not a fan of Rhys at all. He really annoyed me with his reaction to Rebecca’s return and his pining for another woman. Thankfully he redeems himself and I loved him by the end of the book.
There is so much more than just a historical romance going on in this book. I really enjoyed the storyline that’s filled with drama, intrigue and danger. I was pulled into this story from the very beginning and was entertained right up to the very end.
I’m always a fan of children in books and young Johnnie is adorable. He’s such a little scene stealer.
This is a really great historical romance that I would definitely recommend to others.

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Repair (Rescue Me Book 1) by Trish Williford – Review by Karyn Taylor

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Repair (Rescue Me #1; The Everyday Heroes World)Repair by Trish Williford
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Repair by Trish Williford is a contemporary romance novel set in K Bromberg’s Everyday Heroes World. I have been a huge fan of K Bromberg for years but until now had never read any of the novels set in her world. I’m now kicking myself for leaving it so late as I absolutely loved Repair and not just for the fleeting glimpse of Grant Malone.
The book is written in dual POV which is something I really love. We got to see the story from both Charlie and Tank’s POV. I love to read what’s going through the heads of both leading characters.
Charlie and Tank are both amazing characters and I loved reading their story. After a one night stand with Tank, Charlie moved away from home 8 years previously and is now back in town. Added to this is that Tank is the best friend of Charlie’s brother.
This is a book that is filled with angst which is another thing that I love in a romance novel. We also get some amazing steamy scenes which are HOT.
If you love a steamy, angsty contemporary romance with great, relatable characters then Repair is the book for you. Definitely recommend that others give this book a try. It’s a fantastic read.

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Hawke (Men of Syn Duet) by Anise Storm – Review by Karyn Taylor

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Hawke (Men of Syn, #1)Hawke by Anise Storm
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Hawke is the first book in the Men of Syn series by Anise Storm. It was the first time I had read any of this authors work but I was intrigued by the blurb and decided to give it a go. I’m glad I did as what I got is a great erotic story that had me gripped from the very beginning right up to the very end.
Syn is a new BDSM member only club being opened by Nathaniel ‘Hawke’ Hawkins and Charlotte Maxwell is the event planner he hires to plan the opening night of the club. However, unknown to them both, they have met before in a night that neither of them can forget.
I loved Hawke and Charlotte (Charlie)’s story. I was a bit unsure of Hawke at first as he came across as an arrogant a-hole but he soon grew on me and I absolutely loved him. The sexual chemistry between him and Charlie is off the charts HOT and I loved reading it.
The story is very well written and flows well, keeping the reader engaged and entertained throughout. If you like a tasty BDSM story then I’d definitely recommend that you give Hawke a try.
I really enjoyed this book and I’m looking forward to seeing what Anise Storm has in store for us in the rest of this series. If the rest is anything like this book then we are in for a great ride.

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Pet Me (The Toye Shoppe Book 1) by Angelique Jurd – Review by Karyn Taylor

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Pet Me (The Toye Shoppe #1)Pet Me by Angelique Jurd
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Pet Me is the first book in the Toye Shoppe series by Angelique Jurd. This was a new author for me but I found the blurb very intriguing and gave into temptation and gave the book a try. I’m really glad that I took the plunge as this is a really great M/M story that I thoroughly enjoyed.
M/M may not be everyone’s cup of tea but if it’s a genre that you enjoy reading then I’m sure you’ll enjoy reading Bailey and Sam’s story. Sam is the owner of an adult shop and Bailey is the awkward, shy guy who comes in a couple of times a week to look at one of the items in Sam’s shop.
I really enjoyed reading Sam and Bailey’s story. It’s definitely a case of opposites attract. I enjoyed reading about how Sam managed to bring put a whole new side to Bailey and allowed him to explore his sexuality and fantasies safely.
Added to Sam and Bailey are a really great cast of secondary characters whom I’m sure we will get to know much better in the following books in the series. They do play an important role in this book and add much to the storyline and I look forward to reading more about them.

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Avenging Devil Part 2 (Satan’s Devils MC San Diego #4) by Manda Mellett – Review by Karyn Taylor

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Avenging Devil Part 2: Satan's Devils MC San DiegoAvenging Devil Part 2: Satan’s Devils MC San Diego by Manda Mellett
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

The first thing that I’m going to say about Avenging Devil Part 2 by Manda Mellett is that it is worth more than 5 stars. I’ve been a huge fan of her writing for a couple of years now and with every subsequent book she blows me even further away. Having left us this a cliffhanger in Part One I couldn’t wait to devour part two.
Part two was absolutely fantastic. The drama of the very first chapter was something else. I lost count of how many times my heart was in my mouth wondering what was going to happen next. The drama flowed from that very first chapter and did not stop until the book ended.
Niran and Saffie’s story is just heartbreaking and you feel that nothing will ever go right for them. This is all down to the skill of Manda Mellett’s fantastic writing skills and the amazing characters that she continues to produce. I really am in awe of how she continues to bring us these fantastic MC men and their equally fantastic women.
I also loved that we continued to get Grumbler and Mary’s story. Another couple who you can’t help but love and want everything to work out well for.
Manda Mellett can do no wrong in my eyes and I can’t wait to see what she has in store for the Satan’s Devils MC next.

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Check Out (The Bobbins Sisters Series Book 1) by Debra Parmley – Review by Karyn Taylor

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Check OutCheck Out by Debra Parmley
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Check Out is the first book in the Bobbins Sisters Series by Debra Parmley. It is a great contemporary romance novel which I thoroughly enjoyed. It was the first time that I have read this author’s work but I was intrigued by the blurb and decided to give it a try and I’m very glad that I made this decision.
Nash Ware is a marine veteran who is disillusioned with life after his fiancee broke it off with him when he returned from war wearing an eye patch to cover a nasty eye injury. Betsy Bobbin is the local librarian who is intrigued by the handsome man in the eye patch.
I loved Nash and Betsy’s story. Both are amazing characters that I really loved reading about. Their story had me gripped from the very beginning with his visit to the library which has Betsy all on edge, right up to the very end.
The story is very entertaining and flows very well. Betsy is attracted to Nash but finds it hard to let him in, so the path to true love runs far from smoothly for Nash and Betsy.
I’m looking forward to getting better acquainted with the other Bobbins sisters and hope we get more from Betsy and Nash in the rest of the series.

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Bittersweep by Wareeze Woodson – Review by Karyn Taylor

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BittersweepBittersweep by Wareeze Woodson
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Bittersweep is a great historical romance novel from Wareeze Woodson. I have recently read a few books from this author and I’m becoming a big fan of her writing. I am more of a contemporary romance fan but Wareeze Woodson is giving me a love for historical romance.
Moving back to her hometown of Bittersweep after 15 years away, and under a different name, schoolteacher Elizabeth Campbell is determined to find out what happened to her family.
Chairman of the school board JP is taken by the new school teacher wants to find out more about her but she’s determined not to let him close.
I really enjoyed this book. I loved the relationship between Elizabeth and JP. Both are characters that I really liked and could read about for hours.
There is so much more to the story line than just the relationship between these two. I was really drawn in by the story and did not want to put this book down. It is very entertaining and keeps you drawn into the story right up to the very end.
I definitely recommend this book and look forward to reading more of Wareeze Woodson’s work.

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Confessions of a Sophomore Prankster (Frat house confessions) by Danielle Jacks – Review by Karyn Taylor

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Confessions of a Sophomore Prankster (Frat House Confessions, #6)Confessions of a Sophomore Prankster by Danielle Jacks
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Confessions Of A Sophomore Prankster is the 6th book in the Frat House Confessions series by Danielle Jacks. Each book can be read as a standalone. I had not read any of the previous books in the series and didn’t feel that I was missing anything. I have read other books by the author and have enjoyed them.
Brandon Setter is at college to enjoy the party lifestyle and create pranks. Casey Nelson is the polar opposite. She is most likely to be found in the library. When Casey helps him evade being caught with one of his pranks, he’s drawn to her and doesn’t understand why.
When her father, his football coach asks him to watch out for her it gives him the excuse to spend more time with the lovely Casey.
I loved reading Setter and Casey’s story. They couldn’t be any more different if they tried. Well, they do say that opposites attract.
This is a very entertaining story. Setter’s pranks alone could fill a book. Add this to their budding friendship and Setter’s family controlling his life makes for a very enjoyable read.
I was pulled into the story from the very start and remained interested and entertained until the very end. A very enjoyable read.

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Bad Man on Campus (Big Men on Campus Book 3) by Stephanie Queen – Review by Karyn Taylor

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Bad Man on Campus (Big Men on Campus #3)Bad Man on Campus by Stephanie Queen
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Bad Man On Campus is the 3rd book in the Big Men On Campus series by Stephanie Queen. Each book in the series can be read as a standalone. I had not read the previous two books in this series and did not feel as if I was missing any vital information to help me m enjoy this book. I have read this author’s work before and thoroughly enjoyed the Playing Series so was looking forward to reading more of her work. This book was a great choice as I really enjoyed it. I do like reading a book set in college/university and this is a great example of that.
This is a great second chance romance that got my emotions going. Glory has been through a very hard few years having lost her best friend in a car crash and she’s still struggling. She’s now about to start college where her ex boyfriend, Kace, the brother of her best friend also attends.
As much as my heart broke so much for Glory many times, she also exasperated me. I wanted to shake some sense into her and make her realise the damage she was doing to herself and how this was affecting Kace. I adored Kace and loved how he would do anything for Glory and was willing to risk all to keep her safe.
This is a great book and I’d definitely recommend it to other readers.

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Unlikely in Love (A Parker Lake Novel Book 1) by Olivia Sherwood – Review by Karyn Taylor

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Unlikely in Love (A Parker Lake Novel Book 1)Unlikely in Love by Olivia Sherwood
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Unlikely In Love is the first book in the Parker Lake series by Olivia Sherwood. This was a new author to me but I was interested in the blurb and decided to give it a go. I’m very glad I chose to as I really enjoyed this book.
I loved the female lead Annabelle (Annie) and the camaraderie that she has with her best friends. I’m envious of people who have that kind of relationship with their friends. They support one another but are not scared to have a laugh at their friend’s expense too and they sure do when Annie’s childhood crush Wyatt comes on the scene.
I also adored Wyatt, the male lead. I loved his sexy flirty ways that he had with Annie as he was trying to get under her skin and make her flustered. I really enjoyed reading the growing friendship and then budding romance between these two. The book is very well written and the storyline flows freely and keeps you engaged in the story from the very beginning right up until the very end.
I really enjoyed this book and I’m looking forward to reading more of this series.

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The Heart of Baker Bay by Danielle Jacks – Review by Karyn Taylor

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The Heart of Baker BayThe Heart of Baker Bay by Danielle Jacks
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

The Heart Of Baker Bay is a great contemporary romance novel by Danielle Jacks. I have previously read a couple of her books and thoroughly enjoyed them so was looking forward to this one. I’m really glad I chose to read this book as I think this is my favourite of her books that I’ve read so far.
I totally loved Jody as a character. She feels like the black sheep of the family and for once wants to prove that she can make a go of something.
Adam is one of the nicest, sweetest characters that I have read in a long time. I’d love an Adam of my own. He has his own demons to live with that keep him living in the small quiet town of Clover Bay but he has a heart of gold and when he gets to know the real Jody, he wants nothing but the best for her.
I loved Jody and Adam’s story. They seemed like complete opposite when they first met but as time progressed you realise that they are actually very similar in many ways.
I thoroughly enjoyed this story and would definitely recommend it to others.

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Captured by the Viscount by Wareeze Woodson – Review by Karyn Taylor

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Captured by the ViscountCaptured by the Viscount by Wareeze Woodson
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Captured By The Viscount is a great historical romance by Wareeze Woodson. I have now read a few of her historical romances and have become a big fan of her writing. I was never a big fan of historical romance before but it is a genre that I’m now enjoying much more, thanks to reading Wareeze Woodson’s books.
Captured By The Viscount had me hooked from the very first chapter when Isabel is literally caught by the viscount. Matthew, breaking into his home. The story flowed really well and kept me gripped right up to the very end.
As well as the romantic story of Isabel and Matthew there is danger and intrigue as they try to work out who is trying to kill Isabel, and why.
I loved the growing romance between Isabel and Matthew, although both have no idea how the other feels. This causes many amusing interactions between the two as they skirt around their growing feelings toward each other.
If you like a historical romance with a bit of sexiness thrown in, then I’d definitely recommend Captured By The Viscount. It’s well worth the read.

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Of Fire & Bone (Of Magic & Scales Book 3) by Natalina Reis – Review by Karyn Taylor

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Of Fire and Bone (Of Magic & Scales, #3)Of Fire and Bone by Natalina Reis
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Of Fire and Bone is the third book in the Of Magic and Scales series by Natalina Reis. It is an M/M fantasy romance which I thoroughly enjoyed. When I saw this book I was so happy to see Aiden and Nael again.
Nael is a gorgeous, but grumpy, merman and Aiden is his magical boyfriend and together they are an amazing couple who I love reading about. Their love for one another is awesome and they will do absolutely anything for each other, including going face to face with gods and goddesses and other magical creatures.
In Of Fire and Bone Aiden is being hounded by the horrid creature that they have nicknamed ‘Bob’ to annoy him. Bob is intent on killing Aiden and will use any means to do so.
Added to this danger to his life, Aiden’s father is back on the scene and that causes Aiden a lot of anguish and he needs his beloved merman to help him get through the tough times.
This is a great, well written, fast paced story. I already loved these characters and there is also a great secondary cast of characters which add so much to the story.
Definitely recommend this book and the whole series.

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Sex on Fire (Naughty Neighbor Book 1) by Ashley Bostock – Review by Karyn Taylor

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Sex on Fire: A Quickie Read (Naughty Neighbor Book 1)Sex on Fire: A Quickie Read by Ashley Bostock
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Sex on Fire is a short, but action-packed novella from Ashley Bostock. It may be only 38 pages in length but Ashley Bostock manages to fit in quite a lot of content in those 38 pages. I did really enjoy it and I’d love to read a full-length novel about this couple.
Turner is the hot neighbour that all the women drool over and fight for his attentions, whereas his next-door neighbour is the nerdy Poppy who interests Turner much more than the other glammed up females who constantly vie for his attention. The thing is that Poppy assumes that she’s the last person who Turner would be interested in. She assumes that she’s firmly in the friend zone.
I really enjoyed reading Turner and Poppy’s story. Poppy’s insecurities remind me so much of myself, always assuming the worst. With only 38 pages we don’t get a big, long courtship before we hit the hot and steamy times but hey, it’s sometimes good not to have to wait, lol.
If you want a quick, hot read then I’d definitely recommend Sex On Fire.

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Mr. Nice Guy (Pierce Brothers Book 1) by Belinda Williams – Review by Karyn Taylor

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Mr. Nice Guy (Pierce Brothers, #1)Mr. Nice Guy by Belinda Williams
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Mr Nice Guy is the first book in the Pierce Brothers Series by Belinda Williams. It is a great contemporary romance. I became a fan of Belinda Williams after reading the Freshwater series and was looking forward to a new series. I can safely say that this series has got off to a fantastic start. I really loved Mr Nice Guy which is a great example of a friends-to -lovers romance.
When Tom gets sick of his flatmate Chelsea complaining about her endless stream of loser boyfriends he offers her a proposition – give him seven days and seven nights to show her how good a nice guy can be.
I absolutely loved Tom and Chelsea. Tom is totally devoted to his job as a paramedic and Chelsea loves her job in childcare but is unsure of her future. Together they make such an amazing couple and there are many funny exchanges as Tom shows Chelsea how much better life can be when you are with a nice guy.
We do get a brief peek at some of the other Pierce brothers whom I assume we will get to know very well throughout this series and I’m intrigued to learn more about them.
100% recommend this book and look forward to the rest of the series.

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Competing with the Star (Star Series Book 2) by Krysten Lindsay Hager – Review by Karyn Taylor

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Competing with the StarCompeting with the Star by Krysten Lindsay Hager
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Competing With The Star is the follow-up book to Next Door To The Star by Krysten Lindsay Hager. It is a sweet young adult romance that I really enjoyed (although I’m far from a young adult these days, lol). I had enjoyed Next Door To The Star but I must say that I enjoyed this book more than the first one.
Having moved next door to tv star Simone and becoming friends with her, Hadley is now struggling when she finds out that her boyfriend Nick used to be totally infatuated with Simone. She feels that she can’t compete with the beautiful former tv star. It’s her first ever boyfriend and she doesn’t know how to deal with it.
Added to the is the group of girls she now hangs around with. I mentioned in my review of the first book that every teenage girl should read the book. Well they should then follow it with this one. It’s such an accurate representation of how cliquey, bitchy and nasty teenage girls are, even when they are your friend, never mind them being your enemy.
I love Hadley’s character and see a lot of my teenage self in her. I never really felt that I fitted in with any group of girls and felt like an outsider at times. She’s a fantastic character that I’m sure a lot of teenage girls can relate to.
Another must read for all teenage girls.

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Avenging Devil Part 1 (Satan’s Devils MC San Diego #3) by Manda Mellett – Review by Karyn Taylor

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Avenging Devil Part 1: Satan's Devils MC San DiegoAvenging Devil Part 1: Satan’s Devils MC San Diego by Manda Mellett
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Wow! I still haven’t recovered from the book hangover from reading Avenging Devil Part One by Manda Mellett. I knew the book had a cliffhanger before I read it but I just wasn’t prepared for how emotional this book would make me feel and how much I wanted to throw my kindle away when I reached the end and realised that there wasn’t any more…for now!
I have been a huge fan of Manda Mellett for a couple of years now and absolutely adore the Satan’s Devil MC books. I swear that they get better and better each book I read. I don’t know how she has the imagination to continually bring new fresh stories about this wonderful group of men and the women who ensnare them.
She’s not afraid to tackle difficult issues and this book tackles the heartbreaking topic of pregnancy troubles (I wont say any more then that).
In this book we get the start of Niran and Saffie’s amazing story and we get an update on Grumbler and Mary from the last book. Saffie’s story is dark and heartbreaking. You are dragged through every emotion possible reading about her life previous to meeting Niran. I was totally hooked on this story and did not want to put it down. Why do we have to work to earn a living? It totally gets in the way of reading time and I did not want to take any breaks from this book. It’s definitely what’s described as a page turner.
If you really hate a cliffhanger so much then wait a few weeks for part 2 to come out but please read this book. You will not be disappointed.

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Moonlit Kiss (A Venice Romance) (Moonlit Destination Series) by Amy McKinley – Review by Karyn Taylor

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Moonlit Kiss (A Venice Romance)Moonlit Kiss by Amy McKinley
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Moonlit Kiss: A Venice Romance is a fantastic romantic suspense novel by Amy McKinley. I have been a huge fan of Amy McKinley’s writing for a couple of years now and she never fails to impress me with every new book she brings out.
Not since Sylvain Reynard’s Gabriel’s Inferno series have I wanted to visit Italy so much. This book has totally made me dream of visiting Venice one day.
I absolutely loved Gianna and Sergio’s story, told alongside Sophia and Giovanni’s story. I loved the way that the 2 stories were interlinked leading up to a fantastic finale.
As well as these four there is an excellent cast of secondary characters from the wonderful Cat to the extremely evil Lucia. I’ve said in other reviews and I’ll say it here. For me one of the true marks of a great author is how much they get you hate the bad guy (or woman) and believe me, I hated Lucia with a passion.
I was totally hooked by Moonlit Kiss from the very first pages and was glued to the story throughout. I was eager to see how Sophia and Giovanni’s tale of woe would unfold.
Amy McKinley has an amazing talent of writing an amazing story that will have you eagerly turning the page and not wanting to put the book down and Moonlit Kiss is most definitely in this class.
Worth more than 5 stars!

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Secure Decision (Chase Security Series Book 5) by R.L. Dunn – Review by Karyn Taylor

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Secure Decision (Chase Security Series Book 5)Secure Decision by R.L. Dunn
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Secure Decision is the 5th book in the excellent Chase Security Series by R.L. Dunn. I have absolutely adored this series so far and this book was just as good, if not better then the others before it.
Secure Decision is an excellent romantic suspense novel. I love a good romance story but R.L. Dunn takes them to another level by adding the suspense, intrigue and danger that make this book a page turner. I was totally hooked from the very first pages right up to the very end. You are taken on the most amazing roller coaster journey that brings out every emotion.
I loved the 2 main characters Wes and Eleanor. One thing I personally loved is that Eleanor is a larger, curvier lady with insecurities about her size. In most romance novels the main female is slim with a gorgeous body but I love that R.L. Dunn chose to have a leading lady with a larger body. I also loved how Wes loved her curves and made every attempt to tell her and show her how alluring and sexy he found her body.
One thing I mention with with every review from this series is that I’m amazed that R.L. Dunn can keep up with all the characters. The cast list is very extensive and at times I had to stop and think who some characters were (especially as some we using more then one name!!). This doesn’t affect my enjoyment of the book as it’s an amazing story with amazing characters. I’m just in awe of how the author manages to keep track of all the characters.
I’ve loved this series so far and hope that there is much more to come from it. I’m especially desperate to get Troy’s story. That man definitely needs a HEA.

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In His Kiss (Unrequited Series Book 1) by Ava Alise – Review by Karyn Taylor

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In His Kiss (The Unrequited Series Book 1)In His Kiss by Ava Alise
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

In His Kiss is the first book in The Unrequited Series by Ava Alise. I had previously read a couple of books by this author and had enjoyed them so was looking forward to reading more of her work. I’m glad I chose to read this book as I really enjoyed it.
In His Kiss is a great, contemporary, friends to lovers romance. I’m a sucker for just about every romance trope but I do love and angsty friends to lovers romance and In His Kiss fits the bill perfectly.
Xia has been best friends with Jordan since they were toddlers in nappies and have been inseparable since. Both have been in love with one another for some time but don’t want to ruin their friendship. But after a drunken night together Jordan declares that I was a mistake. How does their friendship survive this?
I loved Jordan and Xia’s story. It has the angst and hurt that you expect from a friends to lovers romance. Both are great characters who are very well written and you just can’t help but hope that they get their deserved HEA.
The story is well written and flows well, keeping the reader entertained from start to finish. I really enjoyed this book and look forward to reading more from this series.

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Next Door to a Star (The Star Series) by Krysten Lindsay Hager – Review by Karyn Taylor

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Next Door to a StarNext Door to a Star by Krysten Lindsay Hager
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Next Door To A Star is a great Young Adult novel from Krysten Lindsay Hager. I had previously read the first 2 Cecily Taylor books by this author so knew that she writes a great young adult novel. I will say that I prefer the Cecily Taylor books but I did really enjoy Next Door To A Star.
In my opinion every teenage girl should have to read this book. It’s an amazingly accurate interpretation of how teenage girls treat one another. If you are not one of the elite ‘it’ girls then life can be extremely difficult. Teenage girls can be extremely bitchy and scathing and the author does a fantastic job of showing this in this book.
I really enjoyed reading Hadley’s story. She’s never been one of the ‘in crowd’ and has always wanted to be but once she gets in there she realises that the bitchiness and infighting doesn’t end. In fact it can be even worse. I actually found it hard at times to read this book, seeing just how horrible teenage girls can be to one another but it’s so true to life.
A definite must read for every teenage girl.

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BRINK OF DENIAL (SONS OF SINDICATO BOOK 2) by SONYA JESUS AND CAM JOHNS – Review by Karyn Taylor

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Brink of Denial (Sons of Sindicato #1)Brink of Denial by Cam Johns
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Brink of Denial is the first full length book in the Sons of Sindicato series and follows the prequel novella Sons of Sindicato. It is a dark and twisted Mafia romance by Sonya Jesus and Cam Johns. They are new authors to me with this series but I’m absolutely loving it so far and will definitely read more from them.
We first met Dane in the novella as he played quite a major part in his brother Seth’s story. We are also given a bit of the background of Dane and Mila in the novella. In saying that, you could read this book without having read the novella as the author’s do a fantastic job of making sure all necessary information is included for you to fully understand this story.
I absolutely loved Dane and Mila’s story. It’s a classic second chance romance with the added bonus of it having a mafia setting. Having been sweethearts since childhood, Dane was gutted when Mila left to pursue her modelling career just as he was about to propose to her. Now she’s back and she wants Dane back but although he is still in love with her, he’s not willing to let her break his heart a second time.
The characters are very well written and at times you love Dane and at times you want to slap him for being so cruel to Mila. The story is gripping and the added Mafia family feuding makes this a definite page turner that will make you drop an ‘F’ bomb when the authors take the story in a direction you will not see coming.
A definite 5 star read.

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The Earl’s Scandalous Wager by Wareeze Woodson – Review by Karyn Taylor

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The Earl's Scandalous WagerThe Earl’s Scandalous Wager by Wareeze Woodson
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

The Earl’s Scandalous Wager is a wonderful historical romance novel by Wareeze Woodson. This was a new author to me and I can now gladly add another author to my authors to read group. I’ve not read a lot of historical fiction but I’ve found it to be a genre that I’m enjoying more and more.
Philip, Earl of Lenbridge has won the beautiful Emily in a poker game when her brother callously put her up as his stake in the game. To save her from the scandal, Philip marries Emily.
I really love so much about this book. I love the backbiting that goes on between the gentry and aristocracy, all trying to out-do one another. It’s vicious at times and makes for very entertaining reading.
I loved the growing relationship between Philip and Emily as their marriage of convenience becomes more for the two of them. Philip proves to be a gentleman, taking his wife’ side against his grandmother and the horrible woman who he had originally planned to marry.
This is a thoroughly entertaining book. The characters are very well written and the storyline flows well and keeps the reader engaged with the story.
I definitely recommend this book.

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Turning Wheels (Satan’s Devils MC #1) by Manda Mellett – Review by Karyn Taylor

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Turning Wheels (Satan's Devils MC, #1)Turning Wheels by Manda Mellett
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Turning Wheels is the first book in the Satan’s Devils MC series by Manda Mellett. I first discovered Manda Mellett at the end of the Satan’s Devils series and have read all the other spin-offs that have come from it but although I’ve owned the box sets for a while still hadn’t gone back to see how it all began. Now I’ve finally gone back to the beginning to see what I missed and I’m cursing myself for not doing it sooner. I absolutely loved Sophie and Wraith’s story.
Having read sone of the spin-offs where Wraith and Sophie are older I had to keep reminding myself that they are much younger in this story. Manda Mellett blows me away every time I read one of her books. The characters are so well written and we get to see deep inside the heads of out characters and in this book I could have cried for Sophie so many times. She’s had a very tough time of it and my heart just melts for how Wraith (and most of the other guys in the MC) take this English woman to their hearts. I have to say that I also laughed so much when she was teaching them some British sayings. As a Brit, I just take these sayings for granted and don’t realise how strange they are to others.
Manda Mellett is not shy to tackling a difficult issue and in this book Sophie is in a wheelchair and feels like she’s not a real woman anymore. Why would anyone want a cripple like her. I love how Manda Mellett treated this storyline and made Sophie feel sexy and desirable again.
I now need to get on with reading the others in this series that I’ve missed. 100% recommend this book and anything written by Manda Mellett. I just can’t praise her enough.

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Chased (A Cambridge Men of Honour Novel Book One): A Dark Mafia Bad Boy Romance (Cambridge Men of Honour—Dark Mafia Romances 1) by Felicity Brandon – Review by Karyn Taylor

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ChasedChased by Felicity Brandon
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I’m quite conflicted about Chased: A Cambridge Men Of Honor Novel. It was my first time reading any of this author’s work and I’m sure I will read more as overall I did enjoy the book although there are a few things that I did not like.
I really liked Allegra, the female lead character. I understand why she fell under the spell of Chase Benedict as he certainly knew how to put on the charm.
I like reading a dark romance and this certainly fits the bill. I did really like Felicity Brandon’s writing style. The story is well told and flows well, keeping the reader engaged.
One thing that I found different is that this is the first book that I have read that is set in Covid times. I really enjoyed reading a novel set in this time as it was a new experience and had expected authors not to write about this particular time.
I didn’t really get the impression of a mafia novel. Yes, Chase was an evil crime lord but I didn’t get a mafia vibe from the book.
One thing I just didn’t get at all was Chase giving Allegra 75 spanks, especially for a first spanking. Hey, I’m no expert on BDSM but that is much higher than in any other novel I have read and it seemed excessive.
Overall, I did enjoy the book and have given it 4 stars.

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Dirty Kisses and Conflicting Wishes (Kiss Me Series Book 1) by Danielle Jacks – Review by Karyn Taylor

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Dirty Kisses and Conflicting WishesDirty Kisses and Conflicting Wishes by Danielle Jacks
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Dirty Kisses and Conflicting Wishes is the first book in the Kiss Me series by Danielle Jacks. It’s the first time I had read any of this author’s work but I was intrigued by the blurb and decided to give it a go. I’m glad that I did as I enjoyed this book and will definitely read more from this series and this author.
In this book we get the story of Zoe Merrill. She’s just broken up with her boyfriend which has resulted in her losing her job and her home, so she’s pretty desperate. But a chance meeting with her brother’s ex-best friend Damien leads to a whole new life for Zoe.
I really enjoyed reading Zoe and Damien’s story. It’s quite a short book so I devoured it in a few hours. With Damien as her fake fiancé, Zoe’s life is pretty much turned upside-down but this makes for a great entertaining read which had me hooked and desperate to know how it all worked out.
There’s a lot of fun moments in the book as Zoe and Damien try to fight the attraction that they both have for each other.
This is a great read that I’d recommend.

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Sexy Drug (Losing My Heart Book 1) by Melody Calder – Review by Karyn Taylor

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Sexy Drug (Losing My Heart #1)Sexy Drug by Melody Calder
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Sexy Drug is the first book in the Losing My Heart series by Melody Calder. It’s the first time I’ve read any work by this author but if this book is anything to go by then it won’t be the last. I want to know what happens next in this story for a start.
Katie is the daughter of a very powerful crime lord and when someone tries to kill her, her father puts Ramone in charge of her safety with the added ‘request’ of do not touch her. That’s not an issue to begin with as both seem to seriously dislike one another until they get to know one another better. Needless to say Katie and Ramone become sexually attracted to one another but it’s more than his life is worth for him to even put a finger on Katie. Or is it?
I loved reading Katie and Ramone’s story. It’s dark and raw in moments and not for the faint stomach in places. Let’s just say that I wouldn’t want to get on the wrong side of Katie’s father. He’s a very cruel and ruthless man and Katie is just a commodity to him.
I was sucked into the story from the very start and devoured this in the space of a few hours. I just didn’t want to put it down.
Definitely recommend.

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Love Unexpected by Marina Hanna – Review by Karyn Taylor

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Love UnexpectedLove Unexpected by Marina Hanna
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Love Unexpected is a fun, contemporary romance from Marina Hanna. It was my first time reading this author’s work so was unsure what to expect but the blurb attracted me so I decided to give it a go. I’, really glad that I did as I really enjoyed this book and can add a new author to my list.
When a very handsome stranger kisses her in a bar, Jules can’t get him out of her mind but knows she’s unlikely to ever see him again. That is until she starts her new job on the Monday morning and finds that the very handsome Adam is her new boss. Only the company has a no fraternization policy. Is boss Adam going to break his own policy as he can’t get the gorgeous Jules out of his head?
I really enjoyed this story. The Monday morning meeting is awkward and funny. The writer has a way of pulling you into the story from the very start and keeps the momentum going.
It’s not a very long book and I devoured it in one sitting of a few hours. It’s a very entertaining read with I thoroughly enjoyed and would definitely recommend that others read. Go on, take a risk on an author you’ve not read before.

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