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Cruel King by K.M. Scott – Review by M Policicchio

Cruel KingCruel King by K.M. Scott
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

OMG! I never wanted to shake two characters so bad. They just needed to stop guessing and actually talk to one another. Not that it was cool what Theo did to help keep Mattias and Ava apart. It was not.

Ava and Mattias were in love but they didn’t know it and everyone around them conspired to keep them apart. Starting with Ava’s father, who said they could never be together. Then Mattias’ father, parroting what Ava’s dad said but adding his own flare. And Theo, his brother and her best friend added to the plot to keep them apart. I can almost forgive Theo because he thought he loved her as more than a friend.

I was not expecting the massive twist. That was not very nice. But then things had a way of working out. I hope that Mattias learned how valuable each brother truly was and started a better relationship with each.

If you are looking for an emotional rollercoaster with some steam, this is for you!!

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Complicated Choices by Risa Nyman – Review by M Policicchio

Complicated ChoicesComplicated Choices by Risa Nyman
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Wonderful tale of strength and resilience! Claire has the power and strength of giants.

Claire’s life was turned upside down when her mother announced she was pregnant after a one-night stand. As Claire’s mother’s depression increased during the pregnancy and deepened after Harry was born, Claire took an ever increasing parental role for Harry and her mother.

As Claire’s senior year of high school begins, things are only getting worse. Add a new guy that eyes for Claire despite her efforts to turn those eyes to her best friend. Claire’s uncle is threatening to take Harry. Claire has to make some hard decisions about what she wants for her life and the future.

Unorthodox solutions to Claire’s problems present themselves. Claire decides that these choices are the only way to save her family which means that Harry isn’t going anywhere. As Claire is two steps from following through on her unorthodox solutions, another way presents itself. Although this new way is hard for Claire to swallow, she determines it is the better option.

Claire found the inner strength to protect the family she wanted, even if it meant that she went to extreme measures to get it. I don’t want to reveal too much but the way Claire was able to repair the relationship with her mom was beautiful. Sure, it will still require work to get back to the way it was but any steps forward are good.

Worth the read. Take the time to get to know Claire and Harry.

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Sleeping with the Enemy (Astoria Royals Book 3) by Deborah Garland – Review by M Policicchio

Sleeping with the Enemy (Astoria Royals, #3)Sleeping with the Enemy by Deborah Garland
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

What can you say about a mob book where the Italians aren’t the bad guys? Brilliant!! This was my first jump into the Astoria Royals’ world. I am not at all sorry I made the leap. The characters feel real. They each have their good and bad points, except for Grigori and Maksim, they have no good.

Priscilla knew her dad wasn’t just a professor growing up. She always knew there was something more. It wasn’t until she was older that she figured out what he actually did. Her father was a hitman for the Irish Mob. Priscilla hung out with the family’s sons, especially Riordan. Riordan was her father’s favorite and she had a giant crush on him.

When Priscilla turned 17, she tried to kiss Riordan. It did not turn out the way she wanted. He said no. Riordan was afraid of what her father would do to him and he wanted to wait until Priscilla was 18 before making that move. When what Priscilla thought was a rejection happened, she took off and put herself in danger. Riordan saved Priscilla but not before several Russian Bratva assaulted her. That night changed everyone’s lives.

It is 17 years later, Riordan is the underboss of his family now. Priscilla has just come back into his world. She is not what she appears to be. This complicates both their lives. Riordan feels that this is their chance to be together despite the unusual circumstances that brought them to this point. Priscilla is on a mission and wants to finish before making any decisions about her life. But there is no time. Everything is moving at lightning speed and no one can stop it.

There is not a dull moment in this book! Between the action and the steam, one is constantly on edge. When all the secrets come out, the rawness of the moment, the reactions, the emotions is so palpable. I am adding the first two of the series to my TBR list. I can’t wait to find out how Lachan manages to get his Russian doll out of her wedding!!

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Reticent Hawke (The Hawke Family Second Generation Book 2) by Gwyn McNamee – Review by M Policicchio

Reticent Hawke: A Billionaire Reverse Age Gap Best Friend's Older Sister Forbidden Romance (The Hawke Family Second Generation Book 2)Reticent Hawke: A Billionaire Reverse Age Gap Best Friend’s Older Sister Forbidden Romance by Gwyn McNamee
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

It is hard to qualify what this book really is. It is a part of the Hawke Saga. It is a story of love, family and friendship. It is also about breaking down walls within ourselves to allow the true us to be. It is about realizing that blood doesn’t make you family, feelings make you family.

Jude has more secrets than he can count. Some he shared with his best friend since they were 10, Alessi or Al. Some he has never told anyone, and he has no plans to. One secret that is bubbling to the top is his love, his obsession with the only woman he has ever had those kinds of feelings for, Angie. On the top of the list of problems of a chance at a relationship with Angie is that she is Alessi’s sister. Sure, there is a 12 year age age but that shouldn’t be an issue. The issue is that she is family.

Angelina or Angie has experienced a lot of loss in her life, starting with her father when she was 5. So to avoid that kind of feeling as an adult, Angie has blocked herself off from relationships. She has her sister, her cousins, the rest of her family and Jude. Although she avoids being around Jude because of the pull she feels towards him, Angie knows that he is always there.

Right now, Angie and Jude must come together to determine what is going on with Alessi. Alessi has been MIA several days, lying, avoiding conversations, coming in late to work and overall not being herself. As Angie and Jude band together to figure out what is going on with Alessi, the pull that they feel towards each other gets harder to resist. Is being together worth the risk of recrimination from the family and possibly losing the relationship with Alessi? Can Angie and Jude figure out what is going on with Alessi and help her?

I want a chair with my name on it at Nana’s table. This family is awesome, full of love and support. They might disagree or even argue but they are always there for each other when the coffee spills or secrets need to be buried. Beautiful. Wonderful. Steamy! I didn’t want it to end.

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Guarding the Crease (The Playmakers Series Hockey Romances Book 9) by G.K. Brady – Review by M Policicchio

Guarding the Crease (The Playmakers #9)Guarding the Crease by G.K. Brady
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

WOW!! Can I have me a Wyatt?? I think he is my new book husband. I get that he has some baggage and a few issues but he is working on them. 😉

Wyatt is a troubled elite goalie. He has been acting out for his mother’s attention for so long he is not even sure if he likes his own antics. He is trying to reclaim his job and be the #1 again, but for him to do that he has to face some harsh truths about himself.

Serena is the PR Director that has been in charge of spinning Wyatt’s wild ways for the last several years. When Wyatt got sent to the minor league team, Serena was able to breathe for a minute. Now Wyatt is back. To Serena’s surprise, Wyatt doesn’t honestly seem like the d-bag that his antics portray him to be. Maybe he has grown up, maybe he can change.

After Wyatt intervenes during a situation with Serena, they start spending time together as Wyatt cons Serena into being his date for a family wedding so that his mother doesn’t saddle him with a social-climbing, status-seeking debutante. A friendship grows. Feelings get real.

This book is funny with real characters. There were scenes where I just wanted to shake the character and say, “I can’t believe you just said that!” Totally hooks you. Read this book if you love hockey, hot guys, and second chances.

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Broken. (Green St. Girls Series) by N.D. Jackson – Review by M Policicchio

Broken. (Green St. Girls #2)Broken. by N.D. Jackson
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Brilliant. That is what this book and this series are. Effing Brilliant. The stories behind these badass women are way too real. These stories are not just about them surviving, they are about these amazing women thriving.

In Broken, the author focuses on Indigo. Indigo is a sexual abuse survivor. (Warning: Discussion and memories of child sex abuse may be a trigger for some.) She got out a few weeks before her 16th birthday and never looked back. Now she is weeks before a megadeal that would solidify her company in the big leagues of the tech world and she is receiving threats. They start small but slowly escalate as the deal is closer to contract signatures.

Gideon, Athena’s brother that tracked her down, has been living in Indigo’s guest house for a while now. They have become BFFs. Gideon is slowly realizing that it is more than just friendship that he feels for Indigo, especially as he gets to know her more. When Indigo asks Gideon to be her personal security for a trip to California, Gideon says yes. Indigo slowly opens up about the threats. Gideon must decide who to trust and if he can truly protect Indigo.

Gideon is sooooooo sweet, kind, understanding, protective, and everything. I think I found my new book boyfriend. Gideon and Indigo were meant to be. Together, they are beautiful and hawt. Yep. Considering everything, the steam level was causing the thermometer to sweat!!! I can’t wait for Gwyn’s story!! Wait…that means the series would be over. I hope not! Anyway, add this to your TBR if you haven’t already!

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Taz (Devil’s Handmaidens MC: Timber-Ghost, Montana Chapter Book 3) by D.M. Earl – Review by M Policicchio

Taz: (Devil's Handmaidens MC: Timber-Ghost, Montana Chapter)Taz: by D.M. Earl
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I keep thinking that this series can’t get any better but then I read the next book. I haven’t been able to pick a favorite sister yet, but Shadow is definitely on the top of my list. Teddy is the best. Okay…let’s talk about this book, not just this brilliant series.

Taz or Raquel has had a hard life. The love of her life died serving his country shortly after her son was born. Then she met a nice guy that turned out to be an abusive racist militia member that wanted to use her for breeding stock and harm her biracial son. After Taz ran away from him, she found a home in Timber-Ghost and the Devil’s Handmaidens. She was quietly raising her son with the help of her chosen family until one day her past caught up with her.

Enforcer or Travis didn’t have the best childhood either. He was young and reckless until he found a home with Tank the President of the Intruders MC. Tank took him in and gave Enforcer a second chance at being human. Enforcer found that he couldn’t stay away from Taz. Enforcer has a deep soft spot for Teddy, Taz’s son. Enforcer would scorch the earth to protect either one, so when Taz’s ex shows up in town and hurts Teddy, he is ready to strike the match.

As more information comes to light, Taz and Enforcer realize that is more than just Taz’s ex trying to get her back. There is so much more and it is soooo much worse. Taz must fight her past to save her child and their future.

In case I didn’t say it before, Love this book. Love this series. If I could ride a motorcycle, I would move to Montana to fight the injustices of this world alongside these women. This author puts so much emotion and realism in her writing. If one of these women doesn’t fall madly and deeply head over heels for Avalanche, let me know. I will happily take that option. Amazing addition!!!

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Smooth Hoperator (Love on Tap Book 2) by Sylvie Stewart – Review by M Policicchio

Smooth Hoperator: A Fake-Relationship Romance (Love on Tap)Smooth Hoperator: A Fake-Relationship Romance by Sylvie Stewart
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

As I stand to applaud another excellent addition to this series, I just have to say that the characters this author creates are …. human. They have fears, desires, hopes, dreams, regrets, disappointment, love, laughter, and anger. And they are beautiful, funny, real. Even the supporting characters are well done.

Just as the Brooks brothers are getting over their very weird and expensive surprise inspection, Carter realizes that it is so much more than a disrespected government official exerting their power. It all was too coincidental. All the bad stuff happening to his family was because of him, because of what Carter left behind when he fled DC. One mistakenly overheard conversation, one dirty politician, one career ruined. Unfortunately the ruined career was his. Now he had to find a way to protect his family.

Sunny is more than just a librarian. She is a granddaughter trying to care for her aging grandfather. She is a best friend trying not to be jealous of the loving relationship enjoyed by Mia. Sunny is more than a girl with a huge crush on the environmental activist next door. Sunny is most of all a woman trying to find that relationship that allows her to feel safe enough to reveal her big secret. When Sunny and Carter cross paths at the library, it is like she is invisible.

Carter unknowingly involves Sunny’s conspiracy-loving grandfather into his schemes to find a way to protect his family from the powers in DC. Sunny gets roped in because her grandfather can’t make the road trip to Memphis from Asheville to get answers, dirt, leverage needed to secure Carter’s family’s safety. As part of the deal, Carter agrees to give Sunny’s love interest a push in the right direction by pretending to be interested in Sunny. It works all too well. Tender moments shared. Riotous banter had. Even a little dream-inspired conversation. Throw in a couple cantankerous goats and you have yourself one heck of fun ride. Applause restart. Fabulous book!!

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The Finding (Berrycreek Heights Series Book 1) by A. M. Porto – Review by M Policicchio

The Finding (Berrycreek Heights, #1)The Finding by A.M. Porto
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

So, this wasn’t exactly what I was expecting. The relationship between Vic and Logan was everything it needed to be. He was her friend, he was her big brother, he was her boyfriend, he was her savior. She was his everything. The story was good. The characters were sappy and endearing.

There were a couple of things that bothered me, like the timeline. Vic said once it had been 8 years, and Logan said it had been six. A couple of other bobbles in the timeline but it didn’t completely detract from the impactfulness of the story. But, the things were not enough for me to understand the importance of Vic’s story.

Logan Lancaster moved next door to Victoria Appledeen right when Vic needed him. Logan and his mom, Annie, became Vic’s family. Unfortunately, they could not break Vic away from her abusive step-father. They just had to do their best to keep her out of his reach. It mostly worked up until Vic was about 15. Two months before her 16th birthday, Vic disappeared. Her stepfather took her. Logan couldn’t get anyone to believe it. For the next 12 years, Logan searched for Vic. Logan was finally able to convince the FBI that Vic’s disappearance was more than just them leaving town. Logan hired PIs to follow up on the clues, tips, and information that no one else would. Logan didn’t give up. Can Logan save Vic?

I don’t want to spoil the ending. This book has many topics that could be triggering for some. Although, not graphically discussed there is talk of rape, violence, other human trafficking and child abuse.

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Cruel Start (Hidden Valley Elite) by Isla Vaughn – Review by M Policicchio

Cruel Start (Hidden Valley Elite #4.5)Cruel Start by Isla Vaughn
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Not even sure where to start. Phoenix, the responsible cousin. Aspen, the new girl in town, the one he can’t seem to take his eyes off of. A one-night stand that took Aspen’s virginity and left her with a parting gift. They don’t really know each other. Not even sure they like each other. But when the stick turns pink again and again, Aspen makes the decision for herself. She will let Phoenix know to make the decision for himself.

When Phoenix finds out, the trauma of his past comes roaring back at him. Phoenix won’t do what his dad did to him. He will be there. He will be a good dad, even if it means risking everything he has worked for his entire life, all the plans he has made. The question is now what about Aspen.

Aspen’s life is in flux. Her parents never stop fighting. They just moved to town because of her parents’ financial situation. Her sister is barely around. All she has is starting college in the fall. Her waitressing job will help cover everything her scholarships won’t. She just needed a little fun in her life. Cliff Diving was her escape. Until she saw him. She knew he was dangerous and a player. She liked the risk and took it. Thinking it was going to be easy to walk away. Now, she can’t. Her life is forever changed but that doesn’t mean his has to be.

Phoenix and Aspen start navigating what this means to each of them, separately and together. Throw in some family drama, some college frustrations, and some planned deception, what could go wrong? I can’t get enough of these characters. I love, love, love this series!!! I never want it to end. I love that all the boys are back together again at Thane. Can’t wait for the next installment. I need my fix. Seriously addicted to all things HVE!!!

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A Toast for Laurent (Vine Valley Book 1) by Theresa Paolo – Review by M Policicchio

A Toast for Laurent (Vine Valley, #1)A Toast for Laurent by Theresa Paolo
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

A pact made by two 22 year-olds gives the now 40 year-olds a second chance at love. Laurent and Phoebe had been friends for years. Each secretly longing for the other. They finally gave into their feelings at what was possibly the worst time in Phoebe’s life. Phoebe’s mom had just died, her dad brought his former mistress to the funeral, and then he married her two weeks later. Phoebe just couldn’t take it. It was all too much. So she ran.

Phoebe is a successful business woman, well traveled, and extremely independent. But her entire facade starts to crack when she receives the invitation to her half-sister’s engagement party. It is just another chance for her step-monster, her father’s former mistress, to berate and belittle her. Phoebe acts in desperation and goes to Laurent and claims that he has to marry her because of the pact.

Laurent says he won’t marry her but he will act as her boyfriend for the event. While at the engagement party, the step-monster pulls her usual tricks and insults Phoebe at every turn. Laurent slips into uber-protector mode, one of his usual, and accidentally announces to the step-monster and Phoebe’s family that they are also engaged. Family hijinks ensue.

I love the scenes with Laurent’s siblings. They are hilarious. I hope there are lots more of those to come in the series. The characters are real and feel like they could be someone you could be friends with on any given day. I look forward to reading more of this series. Great opener!!!

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Brutal Nights (Hidden Valley Elite Book 4) by Isla Vaughn – Review by M Policicchio

Brutal Nights (Hidden Valley Elite #4)Brutal Nights by Isla Vaughn
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

OMFG!!! This series. So we pick up where we left off. Sky and Damon have been found out and now must deal with the fallout. Damon doesn’t put up with much from Gia when it comes to hurting Sky. Damon tries to figure out his own feelings. When secrets from the past threaten Sky, her mom’s best answer is to leave. Damon will do just about anything to prevent this from happening including asking his father for help.

There is not a dull moment in this book. From the moment we pick the story up to the moment it ends, the author puts you through all the emotions. Damon finds out why Sky is so reluctant to give up on her friendship with Gia, despite all the drama Gia causes. Sky finally remembers the night she got her scar. So many memories. So many emotions!

This addition to the series does not let you down. As more is revealed about Damon, his father, their relationship, Sky, her mom, Sky and Damon, you realize you are no longer just missing your friends when the book ends. It is more like missing your family. The characters make you feel like you are part of their clan, one of them. This is the best series. Maybe ever. Love it.

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My Goodbye Girl by Anna Gomez – Review by M Policicchio

My Goodbye GirlMy Goodbye Girl by Anna Gomez
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Tessa has a lot going on right now. She just wrote a best selling novel that is still working its way up the charts. She is constantly on the road running from one book signing to the next press appearance to the next conference to whatever her agent has booked her for now. On the plane to one such event, she spies him. He is everything. Tall, beautiful, a little bit nerdy, a lot shy. Now is not the time for falling in love. She is not even sure she believes in love except the kind that fills the pages of the romance novel she wrote.

Simon only attended the conference because he had to. When he sees her on the plane, he stumbles. Simon has never been good at talking to the ladies, that has not changed. When he finds her again at the hotel, just at a different conference, he tries to talk to her. He knows when he asks her to meet him that she won’t but he goes there anyway on the off chance that she actually shows up. When she shows up not to meet him but randomly, he takes the opportunity to get to know her.

They each stand at a crossroads in their careers. Tessa’s star is only rising so she will be busy with all the events. Simon is transferring home to England and will be there permanently. As they find ways to meet up at her events, they become closer. When he finally confesses his feelings, she agrees to give it a go, his way. Then tragedy strikes. Her world implodes.

Three years later, out of the blue, Simon calls. Tessa can’t get him or his voice out of her mind. In order to find him and give them a hopeful second chance, Tessa must work through all the memories she has been pushing down since her world stopped. Can they get past the hurt, the anger, the pain to find their way back to each other?

A rollercoaster of emotions. First you are caught up in the excitement of Tessa and Simon’s globetrotting love story. Then it crashes down around them. Stay strapped in for picking up the pieces. There is beauty in their love story. Well worth the read.

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Falling Again (Buckeye Falls Book 3) by Libby Kay – Review by M Policicchio

Falling Again: A Buckeye Falls NovelFalling Again: A Buckeye Falls Novel by Libby Kay
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

In this poignant, sweet romance, Natalie and Anthony realize that they are missing something, each other. They are parents, business owners, the mayor, friends, siblings, children to their parents….but there seems to be a title missing. Husband and wife. It seems like they have forgotten that part.

Natalie constantly feels that she is failing with her children, her job, her responsibilities as the Mayor’s wife, and even failing herself. The biggest problem is that she can’t remember when she was Anthony’s wife. When he looked at her this morning as she stripped her chocolate stained shirt of to bathe their daughter, she realized that it has been waaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaayyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyy too long since that has happened. She can’t remember the last time she saw him shirtless, much less naked.

Anthony has such big shoes to fill. Since his father was Mayor before him, Anthony feels the weight of his father’s shadow everywhere. Throw in trying to be a good dad, a decent son, an okay brother to a sister he doesn’t understand, a friend, Anthony forgot that he needs to be a good husband. Natalie is his everything. She is an amazing mom, a true support, and a better partner than he deserves. It takes a morning disaster for Anthony to realize that he needs to be better, do better.

When Anthony’s father asks him to take Natalie out to their summer house and pack it up to get it ready to sell, Anthony sees this opportunity to get some time with his wife. To finally have time to talk to her. To reconnect. After an almost perfect week, Anthony and Natalie come back ready to recommit to their marriage and lives. Anthony thinks he has found the perfect way to show Natalie this, a surprise 10th anniversary party. The only problem?? Anthony sucks at keeping secrets. He screws everything up. He is on the verge of losing Natalie and now must rely on friends to help, something he has never been good at doing. Will she forgive him? Or will this be the final straw that drives Natalie away?

This was a smash addition to this series about 2nd chances at love. The emotions that Natalie and Anthony felt were so real and raw. Anyone that has been in a relationship for 10 years or more knows what they were going through. Sometimes you just know that person is going to be there and you just forget to nurture them and the bond. Beautiful story.

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A Way Out (Rock Star Book 2) by Tami Lund – Review by M Policicchio

A Way Out (Rock Star Book 2)A Way Out by Tami Lund
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This nice guy, this average Joe, this hardworking, hard-loving family man. This is who rock stars should be. It doesn’t hurt that he has the best butt on Insta!! Oz is caught between his reality and his dream. Can he have both? Maria is figuring out her life was never her own. Now she has a chance to not only discover who she is but grow her relationship with her sister, and finally get out from her stifling mother. Will she take it or will Maria fall back into her old habits?

Oz Garcia is trying to do right by his sister by raising her three children after the immense tragedy that was her marriage. It takes three jobs to keep a roof over their heads, food on the table, clothes on their backs and shoes on their feet. He doesn’t hate it, Oz will do whatever it takes to keep his family together. He is just steps away from his dreams. It is right at his fingertips, if he could find a way to pay the bills when playing rock star with his fledgling band.

Maria married the man her mother would approve of and she is not happy. Maria had her daughter because her husband thought it was time to start a family. The minute he started discussing having a second child Maria decided she wanted a divorce. She wasn’t going to have the life her mother did. When her ex tells Maria that she has to leave the house despite the arrangement they agreed to in the divorce, Maria escapes to the only place she feels safe, her sister’s house. The only problem, her sister isn’t there. She is in another state for the last days before her wedding.

When Maria hears Oz’s band play, she is memorized. The lyrics, the music, the sound, everything is ready for the next steps except a significant lack of funds. Maria takes a leap of faith in Oz, in his band. With the band, Maria finds happiness and a real place where she can feel successful. When family issues arise threatening Maria’s daughter, she drops everything and runs home. Will this cost Maria not only her new life but Oz?

OMG!! Prepare yourself to strap in for this emotional rollercoaster ride! The ups, the downs, the twists, the turns, the flips and swirls are all worth it. The author provides us with the rock star we all can love. He is funny. He cares about his family. He makes sacrifices for them and his band. He is sexy as all hell…o!! Did I mention he is good with kids? He is patient with the teens and the toddlers. He is the next great heartthrob!! Going to catch up with the rest of the band now!! I am hooked. Sell me a t-shirt and a hat, I am a Demigoddess Revival groupie now and forever!!

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Twisted Oath (Bound By Blood Book 1) by A. S. Roberts – Review by M Policicchio

Twisted Oath (Bound By Blood #1)Twisted Oath by A.S. Roberts
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I am a sucker for a good mafia story, plus it is in Calabria!!! This story has everything. Secrets, revenge, love, secret love, violence, steam, twists and turns, death and all the good mafia details.

Salvatore is out for one thing and one thing only, revenge on those that stole his mother away from him. That begins and ends with the Giordianos. From a young age, Salvatore decides that he needs Serafina, the oldest daughter. Over several summers, he befriends her from afar until she is of age then he starts inserting himself in her life.

Serafina knew what kind of family she grew up in. She wasn’t completely naive. Because of it, Serafina decides to dedicate her life to healing and saving people as a doctor. When tragedy strikes, she has to give up her dreams to protect her family. Serafina finds herself looking at an arranged marriage to save the family reputation, position, and smooth over some relationships.

I want you to know that I was mad at Serafina throughout the entire first part because Nick. I couldn’t believe it. I suspected the right person with the heavy steps all along. I hated that I was right. I was happy for Mia, who was going to get her dream guy. Dante needs to talk to his sister before he takes his vengeance too far. Did I mention that the story is wonderful? I didn’t see some of the twists coming. Can’t wait for more. Fantastic.

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Twisted Proposal (Central Florida Stories Book 3) by Victoria Saccenti – Review by M Policicchio

Twisted Proposal (Central Florida Stories)Twisted Proposal by Victoria Saccenti
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Wow!! I was not expecting the level of kink in this book. I can’t say that I am offended, just unexpected. What starts out as a method of revenge for Ethan quickly turns into so much more. Innocent, not in the inexperienced way but the not guilty way, Siena accidentally walked into a hornets’ nest not knowing she was allergic.

Siena was just looking to find a way to support her family after they had lost everything and sought funding from the Big Seven. It was a last ditch effort. It did not turn out the way she expected. Instead of gaining 7 investors, she gained one benefactor but it will cost her more than just a percentage of her business. Is she willing to pay what is being asked?

Ethan was hellbent on revenge and righting the wrong that had been done that he lost his perspective. When he meets Siena, it becomes about more than just taking his pound of flesh. He never expected to feel protective. He never expected to feel possessive. It was just supposed to be easy, business like, casual, dirty sex. He could not let Siena in. It was too costly. Her family had left a wake of hurt the last time he let one of them in. When Siena’s brother puts her in danger, the situation changes. Ethan just is not willing to admit that his feelings are also changing.

There are some unexpected twists in this story. I hope that we have not seen the last of Strega, but in a totally good way. There are some unanswered questions. I guess that will bring you back for the next one. Couldn’t put it down. Excellent read!!

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Stalked by the Devil (To Kiss a Stalker Series) by Stacy-Deanne – Review by M Policicchio

Stalked by the Devil: BWWM Thriller (To Kiss a Stalker Series)Stalked by the Devil: BWWM Thriller by Stacy-Deanne
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

There are some things I really enjoyed about this book. And there are some things that I did not enjoy about this book. The interaction between the sisters, even the fighting, is one of the things I enjoyed. That and best friend Craig were the most realistic parts of the book. How quickly and easily things were resolved is one of the things that I didn’t enjoy. Like Sahara sitting on her porch at the end of the book just days after taking down two rich and powerful men in the city. With her being a model and with all the press that would come from the arrest of the mayor’s husband and son, the paparazzi would be everywhere. Didn’t Melody forgive Lucas a little fast? He did lie to her. Sure he came around, admitted he was wrong, apologized for lying but just a couple of weeks after that she is agreeing to move in with him?

This book moved fast and kept you guessing throughout. I had the stalker wrong, not gonna lie. I guessed it was Keith, just keeping Sahara dependent on him. Turned out not to be. It was a good twist. Maybe I just watch too much true crime. This just ended too pretty for me, too nice, too neat. But a really good read!!

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Lap Baby by Amy Q. Barker – Review by M Policicchio

Lap Baby: Emotional Women's FictionLap Baby: Emotional Women’s Fiction by Amy Q. Barker
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This tale of three women facing life after a tragedy is wonderful and horrible. Each having to find their way in the world after, each having to figure out how to live life after. What does that even mean?

Julie, the flight attendant, has to find purpose in her life after fighting a fight to change the rules that no one wants to change. She also has to manage to live after following protocol, but that doesn’t take away the guilt.

Paige, the toddler, has to figure out who she is while living under the shadow of the tragedy. The physical remnants of the accident will always remind her but will they also keep her from moving forward?

Marie, the mom, has to determine who she is after losing part of herself in the accident. Filling her life with kids’ activities, chores, errands, and stuff doesn’t fill the hole, but is she missing out on what is really important? Marie needs to focus on the life she has in front of her, her husband and three kids, not what is missing.

Wonderful storytelling that weaves the connections and tears in these women’s lives.

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Breathless Love (The Bennetts of Langston Falls Book 3) by KG Fletcher – Review by M Policicchio

Breathless Love (The Bennetts of Langston Falls, #3)Breathless Love by K.G. Fletcher
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This book should be rated a big negative 15 stars because it made me cry. Yes, I said it. This big hard, cold hearted, not a crier was overtaken by all the heavy, intense feels in this book and water leaked from my eyes. As -15 stars is not an official rating and is not a fair one, I can’t help but give it all the stars possible.

I have been a fan of this series since I first dived in with Teddy. I stuck around for Walt, the big ol’softee. I was completely blown away with Hank and his Ella Mae. So, where do we pick up with the Bennett clan? Hank is lost after trying Nashville and finding out that it wasn’t for his band. They didn’t want that life. Weekend gigs in local bars with crowds chanting their name, they were there for that. The hustle and grind of the Nashville music scene, not so much. But he was at home working the family farm.

Feeling sorry for himself, Hank takes himself to a concert for his music idol, Travis Miller. Hank is feeling no pain and looking sad when a pretty girl says hello and offers him water. As Hank talks to the mystery woman, he starts to realize that he might never want to let her go. When she introduces herself as Ella Mae Miller, Hank is stunned. Ella Mae is on tour with her brother. Ella Mae prefers the shadows to the spotlight, so she doesn’t mind being the woman behind Travis’ spotlight.

Hank and Ella Mae bond over many things including family tragedies and the shared knowledge of dark secrets. As some of those secrets start to come to light, Ella Mae must decide who she wants to be and the road she wants to take, knowing that it might cost her one if not both of the men in her life.

Absolutely beautiful. The talk that James gives Hank after they got the news, heart wrenching brotherly love. So many tender moments in this one. It is hard to point to a favorite.

P.S. I see what you are doing to Becky and it better be worth it. Cuz I’m fixin’ to say Nun-uh, No to that.

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Brutal Days (Hidden Valley Elite Book 3) by Isla Vaughn – Review by M Policicchio

Brutal Days: A High School Bully Romance (Hidden Valley Elite Book 3)Brutal Days: A High School Bully Romance by Isla Vaughn
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

OMFG!!!!!!!!! My friends are back and they brought some new people. I am down for that. I have missed these characters. On a side note, I should totally take stars off my rating for that ending. I knew it was going to end on a cliffhanger but Uhhhhhhhh, I was not expecting to be there dangling just by my fingertips on my strong hand waiting on the rescue of the next book.

Okay, let’s catch up on what happened. Riley and Cole have gone off to college leaving behind the rest of the Elite. Damon, Phoenix and Shane are starting their senior year of high school. Skylar, who made a brief appearance in Riley & Cole’s story, is a reporter writing for the school’s blog on the football team. This is where the conflict begins. Skylar writes an unflattering article on Damon and now he is out for blood but as much as he wants to take her down, he finds her intriguing.

Skylar is in the midst of her drama. Her best friend is on a mission to complete a list of goals to make senior year awesome, Skylar is not interested. Skylar’s abusive father is about to get out of jail. She just needs to get through the year to get the heck out of dodge, as the saying goes. She might have written that article to rile Damon but also because it was how she saw it. Now, Skylar needs Damon’s help to make the best friend’s senior year goal list a reality. It just comes with a price.

The consequences of Skylar’s actions are catching up to her and now she is caught between a rock and a hard demon. Will her choices justify the ends? I sure don’t know but I hope the next book will tell me!!!

This author, this series….UHHH-effing-mazing!!!! The author draws you and then teases you with crumbs of information that will make sense later when you realize you know. The characters’ emotions are as real as the pages on which they are written. Beautiful. I crave the next book but know that when I devour it, it will only leave me wanting more.

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Obedience (Ties That Bind Book 1) by Liza Snow – Review by M Policicchio

Obedience (Ties That Bind)Obedience by Liza Snow
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Hooooooolllllllllllllllllllyyyyy Cow. Chandler could tie me up anytime. Oh, that voice. I am in for this series, be it two or twelve books.

Can we talk about, just for one second, how this book ended? I mean, all the unanswered questions. There is so much I need to know. So much I want to know. Will she forgive him for leaving her in the silks that way? How linked are their families? How much danger are they in? Why did they go after the ex-wife? So many questions!!!

The way this author describes the way things feel, smell, taste, sound, or look is absolutely impressive. This book was a feast for the senses. When does the 2nd one come out? Tomorrow? Yesterday?

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Fireflies (The Physical Collection) by A.R. Hadley – Review by M Policicchio

Fireflies (The Physical Collection)Fireflies by A.R. Hadley
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

In an ever changing world, this book gives new meaning to the word family. Family is not only about who you choose to love but who loves you. It is about the family you are born with as well as the family you choose to create. This beautiful, sometimes harsh, look at a true modern family is beautiful and heartwarming and wonderful and accepting.

This story is about Dane and Mike. Although they have dedicated their lives to each other, each is searching for something more. Dane wants to bring a woman into their relationship so that they can have a family. Mike is not sure and so he reacts by cruising for men. Dane meets a woman that he feels deeply connected to but she is not interested in his version of family. Mike finds and brings a woman to the relationship. Mike falls in love with her, while Dane grows to love her. She becomes what Dane always wanted, and adds children to their life. All the while, Dane continues to develop a relationship with his deep connection. Each partner finds their own version of happiness.

The honesty between Mike and Dane, the acceptance, the love, the desire, the ability to share their partner’s dreams while not stifling their own, the understanding, is relationship goals. This author has made my list to watch, a permanent spot on the TBR List.

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The Promised Plan by Sharon Hughson – Review by M Policicchio

The Promised PlanThe Promised Plan by Sharon Hughson
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Not exactly sure what was the cause but a rift has settled between her daughter’s, Ruth makes a plan to take a vacation with her two daughters and one granddaughter to see if she can do something to heal it. The only problem is that Ruth is dying of cancer. She might not make the trip. As Ruth’s family gather for her birthday, she makes Merci, the granddaughter, promise that she will ensure the trip will happen if Ruth is there or not.

As the trip gets closer, the chasm between sisters has only gotten bigger. Merci is worried that she won’t be able to convince her mom to go on the trip. Merci is also hiding things from her family. She has decided that she will reveal them on this trip.

This heart wrenching story is from the POVs of all women involved. Each gets their say. Each gets to reveal their truth. An overarching theme is their faith, how that gets each through the hard times. One even faces a battle of questioning God and her faith due to the actions of others.

This story of love and family is beautifully told. Although not my usual fare, the story is just the get lost in your feels, tear-jerking, redemption story of sisterhood that would be best read on a beach with the warm breeze quickly drying the tears off your cheeks or in a garden of blooming posies.

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Punk (Popov Boys Book 6) by Leslie Georgeson – Review by M Policicchio

Punk (Popov Boys #6)Punk by Leslie Georgeson
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I love Efrem. He is sweet and caring and adorbs and knows how to make a woman scream. Where can I get me one of him?

Miranda is in the middle of a nasty divorce. Her soon-to-be ex is a jerk of the highest order and he is only getting worse. The soon-to-be ex sends his daughter to live with Miranda because he can’t be bothered with a teen anymore. Miranda is finding more and more reasons she is glad he is going to be an ex real soon.

Efrem has a secret. He is a vigilante so that he can even out his karma. He holds on to guilt for his role in a family tragedy he is not willing to let go just yet. He decides to distance himself from his family to get his head straight and meets Miranda. There are instant sparks! He manages to get Miranda to agree to hire him. Now he just has to figure out how not to seduce his boss.

As Efrem’s secrets are revealed, he accidentally puts Miranda and her stepdaughter at risk. Now he has to step back into the role he doesn’t want anymore to keep them safe. Will Miranda forgive him for his secrets? Can his family forgive him for his role in the tragedy? Can Miranda get away from her ex?

This action packed thriller will keep you flipping pages just to find the answers to those questions. The tension! The author put together another amazing, fantastic book in this series! If you haven’t read about the previous Popov Boys, start here and then catch up!! Efrem is worth it!!

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Consigliere’s Revenge (Sicilian Gods Book 3) by Via Mari – Review by M Policicchio

Consigliere's Revenge (Sicilian Gods Book 3)Consigliere’s Revenge by Via Mari
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Love this series. This thrilling addition will keep you wondering the entire time, who is playing who. Lorenzo and Izzy’s chemistry will singe you through the page.

Lorenzo’s smug confidence makes him perfectly suited for his role as Consigliere. As he fights for his family, he encounters a woman fighting for her’s by seeking revenge. Lorenzo must find a way to protect his family while finding his heart.

Izzy is a woman dead set in what she knows, or what she thinks she knows. Izzy is dead set on getting revenge for her father. This has her crossing one of the strongest mafia families and has put her in the crosshairs of Lorenzo. Can they work together against a common enemy once Izzy has more information regarding what really happened to her father without tearing each other apart?

As Izzy and Lorenzo battle each other, danger continues to seep in from the outside. Will Lorenzo be able to protect Izzy from everyone including herself? Through the multiple twists and turns, this author proves why she is one of the best again and again. Amazing addition to the series.

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Afflicted Love (Rhythm & Heart Series) by Autumn Sand – Review by M Policicchio

Afflicted LoveAfflicted Love by Autumn Sand
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I was a bit surprised by this story. The depth of feeling, the exposure to trauma, the direction of the story. There was just so much to appreciate. The only thing that I can’t take was the way it ended. How could Lyle do that? How could the author do that to me?!?!

This is the story of Kyle and Lyle. Brothers by heart and not by blood. Kyle grew up hard and fast. His mother died when he was very young. His father was not a good man. One day Kyle was at the playground when he saw a younger boy getting bullied. Kyle stepped up and defended that boy, Lyle. From that day forward Kyle and Lyle were inseparable. Unfortunately, Lyle’s life was not much different from Kyle’s. The only difference was that Lyle’s mom was still around until he was 12, Kyle was 14.

When Lyle’s dad found out about the relationship between Lyle and Kyle that had changed from more than just brothers, Kyle was kicked out. This was the first time Lyle felt Kyle’s abandonment. As Lyle and Kyle grew older, Lyle continued to deny his feelings towards Kyle because of all the horrible things Lyle’s dad had screamed at him for years after Kyle left. Kyle and Lyle had a huge fight, each saying some things they didn’t mean but it ended with them not talking. Now, their dad has died and it is time to go home to finally put him to rest.

Can Kyle and Lyle come together after 4 years apart to put everything behind them and move on? Will they destroy each other in the process?

This beautiful story of love, recovery, and family will touch you down to your soul. I suffered through a long day at work after a short night because I could not put this book down. I was gutted after each verbal argument. It was hard to watch Kyle walk away. It was even worse to see Lyle’s choices. I am still not sure all the pieces are put back together after the shattering ending. I can only hope the heart will mend after the next one. Phenomenal.

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Reaper (War Brothers MC Book 1) by Bianca Lee Ward – Review by M Policicchio

Reaper (War Brothers MC, #1)Reaper by Bianca Lee Ward
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This high adrenaline series starter is fantastic. There are so many characters that you are introduced to that you almost can’t pick a favorite. I can’t wait to read Bomber’s second chance at love.

Ava is a good girl. She has always done what her parents wanted. She married the man they picked out for her. She lived with his abuse for years. Ava’s husband slowly took everything away from her. When Ava decided she had enough, she ran to the only place she could think of, her sister and the MC where her brother-in-law was a member.

Reaper was the president of War Brothers MC. It and his brothers were what he called home. He protected both at all costs. Reaper had seen her at Elena’s wedding. They shared a brief moment before the husband came over and interrupted. Now she, Ava, was at his clubhouse, beaten, bruised, shell-shocked, and seeking refuge from the husband. This meant danger. The husband wanted to get her back. That didn’t seem to be all that was brewing on the horizon.

There are many unanswered questions that I am sure are part of the series story line. I can’t wait to find out how they develop as this series goes on. I am a sucker for a good MC series. Looks like I might have my next MC family. I will throw on my cut and ride along! Fabulous start!!

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Fiddle and Fire (Hearts of Gold Book 2) by Ariella Talix – Review by M Policicchio

Fiddle and Fire: A Steamy Historical MMF Romance (Hearts of Gold Book 2)Fiddle and Fire: A Steamy Historical MMF Romance by Ariella Talix
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This was a different choice for me. Not really into historic romances. This one was not exactly what I expected. It was good. Some surprises along the way.

Isaac and Walter have been friends since Isaac jumped into Walter’s wagon. They journeyed across the country together and settled in San Francisco. Together their friendship has grown. They are firefighters. They are business partners. They are BFFs. Isaac doesn’t know that Walter is also secretly in love with him. Walter doesn’t want to tell him in case Isaac doesn’t feel the same.

Suzette wasn’t even supposed to make the journey to San Francisco. She was banished to America with her brother, a rogue, to avoid scandal. Once in SanFran, Suzette falls for both Isaac and Walter. She won’t choose. Suzette believes she will never have love. Isaac and Walter don’t make her choose. They offer her a new option, love them both. Suzette explains that she can’t. She may or may not be married. Neither Isaac nor Walter care. They just want to be together.

When the missing possible husband from France shows, drama ensues. Problems arise. Pistols are drawn. Threats are made. When Isaac and Walter have to rescue Suzette from a ship bound for France, tragedy occurs. It is beautiful chaos.

This might not have been my normal but there was enough steam and fun to keep the pages flipping. If you like historical romances, you will like this one.

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Unexpected Entanglement (The Echo Series Book 3) by C.R. Alam – Review by M Policicchio

Unexpected Entanglement (The Echo Series, #3)Unexpected Entanglement by C.R. Alam
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

One arching theme that I am finding throughout this series is the need to balance one’s dreams with someone else’s. Rowan says it best when she says that she is putting herself first, not taking a backseat to anyone else’s career, and will not expect anyone to take a backseat for her dreams. Finding that balance between the partner’s goals is important. I think that each person is willing to find ways to make both dreams/goals work is HUGE!!

Rowan has a lot going on. Her father disclosed that he has a secret daughter that he abandoned right before he died. He asked Rowan to find her sister. Rowan and her father were working on restoring the family’s seaside inn and is now doing it alone. Rowan recently quit her ‘big city’ job to come back home to run the inn. She also walked away from a 5-year relationship because he was diminishing her. Now she has a limited amount of time to get everything up and running for a family wedding.

Chris is on a mission of sorts. He is on vacation to help out a friend and make a trek to his father’s place for a visit. Chris is actively trying to avoid going to his father’s, hence the favor for a friend. This favor has him checking out a small seaside inn. The friend? The half-sister of the current owner’s. When Chris gets to the inn, he realizes that his preconceived notions of his friend’s half-siblings were all wrong. Now he has volunteered to hang out at the inn and help Rowan with the wedding.

Sparks fly…figuratively and literally. Massages are given. Rings are exchanged.

I have enjoyed each installment of the series. I think Rowan’s fiery nature is one of my favorites. Worth the read! The whole series is. Add to your TBR.

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