Book Lover Avenue

Welcome to my book blog! Check out my reviews, favorite quotes, and so much more!

[korakos]

>>> the perfect court the foxhole court the raven king the king's men the sunshine court the golden raven the broken cage >>> the queen's game

[xouru]

CRESCENT CITY EXCLUSIVE CHAPTERS

Please note that English is not my first language also I re-writed it from photos so there might be some errors.

HOUSE OF SKY AND BREATH

1. Bryce & Hunt Waterstones

2. Ruhn Books-a-Million

3. Tharion Target

HOUSE OF FLAME AND SHADOW

1. Bryce & Danika Indie

2. Bryce & Hunt Barnes & Noble

3. Bryce, Nesta & Azriel Target

4. Ember & Randall Books-a-Million

5. Ruhn & Linda Walmart

[cassandraclare]

Seasons Of Shadowhunters Journal Images!

Check out the full twelve illustrations Charlie Bowater did for Thomas’ Journal! They’re so gorgeous, and will be reprinted in full color exclusively for the Kickstarter, which ends Tomorrow! November 28th at 3pm is the very last time you can pledge, at shadowhunter.army

[cassandraclare]

By Charlie Bowater — Ty, ghost!Livvy and Irene the lynx at the Scholomance.

[bookloveravenue]

LSU (book 0.5): Collided by Becca Steele

When my mother told me she was getting married, I had no idea just how much my life would change.

Her new husband does his best to make me feel welcome, but his son is a different story. Huxley Granger is rude and aggressive, and from the moment we collide, he makes it clear that he loathes me.

Then, something happens. An event that alters everything between us.

I find myself looking at him in a different way.

A way I shouldn’t be looking at the person who has been so hostile to me from the beginning. A way I shouldn’t be looking at the one person I’m not allowed to have.

Even though I tell myself to forget him, I can’t get him out of my head.

And I could be wrong, but I think he might have the same problem.

I know I should stay away.

I should.

But I won’t.

Collided is an M/M new adult romance with enemies to lovers themes. It is a prequel to the LSU series. Each book in the series can be read as a standalone.

https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/122994669-collided

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July 4, 2023

My Review: 5/5 Stars

Was so excited to get my hands on this book! I’ve been looking forward to this story since reading the other two LSU books, plus the sneak peek in the Anti-Valentine anthology! Cole and Huxley finds themselves in a difficult position. Cole’s mom and Huxley’s dad spring on them the fact that they are together (and have been for a little while) and are about to get married. Cole didn’t see it coming. Last thing he knew about David was that he was married and his mom’s boss. And Huxley knew his parents weren’t happy but didn’t realize how bad until his dad announces a new relationship and Huxley’s mom leaves him behind with no backwards glance. So to say they don’t exactly like one another and the situation is a bit of an understatment. However, despite the dislike, there is also a subtle attraction between them. And when Huxley gets into a car accident and Cole is there to help them, they push their anger aside and actually get a chance to know one another. And in doing so they begin to fall for one another. Hard. But being stepsiblings and having a romantic relationship? Bit of a challenge when they know it doesn’t exactly look or sound right. But as their feelings for one another grow, it will be hard to see why they should worry about their parents and what others may think. Loved Huxley and Cole. Opposites in a lot of ways, they also have a lot in common. And when they are together the chemistry is as clear as day. A great little prequel to this series. And I’m looking forward to more!

I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.

[bookloveravenue]

Zodiac Academy (Book 8.5): Beyond the Veil by Caroline Peckham & Susanne Valenti

The stars called us.

The Veil closed at our backs.

And now death holds us in its clutches.

We were torn from life before our time, a Savage King, his queen, a betrayed son, a wronged brother, a scorned wife and so many more. We watch those we left behind as they struggle against the grip of the stars, the answers to so many of their questions within our grasp and yet out of their reach.

But what if we could find a way to answer their pleas? What if we could find a way to help them from this side of the divide? And what price would such a thing come at?

*This is a bridging book which takes place beyond The Veil (in the land of the dead) during the events of book 8 in the Zodiac Academy series. It should be read after book 8 to avoid spoilers for that book and holds the answer to what takes place for the characters who are held within the clutches of death by this point in the story, as well as vital clues to the conclusion of this epic series.*

https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/177899172-beyond-the-veil

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July 2, 2023

My Review: 5/5 Stars

Beyond the Veil is a story I didn’t realize I wanted or needed. But oh my stars, it is probably one of my favorites of the series and it is one you cannot miss while reading this series! The story takes places alongside book 8, Sorrow and Starlight. But this time, we are getting the points of views from those who are, yep, beyond the Veil. Those we have lost throughout the series and some before the series started and we have yet to meet have returned to show that though they may be gone, they are doing what they can to fight alongside their loved ones from beyond. Among those many faces are Darius, Hail, Merissa, Azriel, Catalina, and so many more. Both new and old faces. And this story was just everything. You’ll laugh and cry and cheer with them as they fight so hard to be with their loved ones and help them in just the smallest possible way. And so many are parents who wish more than anything to be there for their children. Like I said, this takes place side by side book 8. We’ll see so many favorite moments as they witness it themselves and how they wish they could help and honestly do in many cases no matter how slight. So many extra truths revealed as well. Along with stories of origins that I didn’t expect but loved. It was such a special treat to get their point of views after wishing to know them so much better like Hail and Merissa. It is also a delight to see them interact with their friends and even frenemies. What I would give to see them all reunited in the land of the living for a moment just to get some extra fun scenes! There are also so many fun moments in between the serious and I couldn’t put this story down. With so much more things learned, the final book is going to be one epic finale and I cannot wait for it!

[bookloveravenue]

Unlucky 13 (book 3): Unforunate by Nicole Dykes

Welcome to the Black Diamond Resort and Spa . . .

I’m in exile in this luxurious refuge after a scandal, which shouldn’t be a scandal at all.

I’m Elijah Hunt, former child actor, now beloved action star.

When a picture of me in a compromising position is posted online, for the entire world to see, my agent sent me here to escape the limelight.

But here, it’s different from my crazy, loud, glitzy life. It’s quiet and peaceful. No one seems impressed with my celebrity.

And no one is less impressed than the sexy, aloof member of the cleaning crew. He couldn’t care less who I am or why I’m here.

He’s convinced I’m one of the fortunate ones—and I suppose I am. I’ve had it all—big houses, the best care, money, fame, and shallow adoration . . . but I’ve never been loved.

I’ve never known if people like me for who I am underneath it all or just for my money and fame.

And to me . . . that seems awfully unfortunate.

Unfortunate (Unlucky 13 #3)

Welcome to the Black Diamond Resort and Spa . . . I’m i…

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June 27, 2023

My Review: 5/5 Stars

Elijah has been an actor since he was a child. Well known and beloved, he has kept himself out of any situation that could cause a scandal. And in doing so, he kept a part of himself locked up tight. But when he is outed without consent, everyone jumps on a scandal that really shouldn’t be a scandal. To help him get some peace and time away to decide what he wants to do, his agents sends him Black Diamond Resort and Spa. And that’s where he meets Atlas. Though they don’t exactly get off on the right footing, they can’t deny the attraction they have for one another. And when they actually take the time to talk to one another and have a real conversation? They’ll find themselves falling for one another faster than either are prepared for. Atlas loves his job at the resort. He has a good group of friends, a good job, and a beautiful place to live. But when he meets Elijah and gets to know him? He realizes exactly what he has been missing. I loved their story! Atlas and Elijah were such a great couple. When they are together, they can be themselves. And though they know that Elijah’s time is limited on the island, it doesn’t stop them from spending time together. Really great story. My favorite of the series so far! 

[bookloveravenue]

The Loyal Boys (book 3): Lost Boy by Charli Meadows

Fallon

Being alone is nothing new. I’ve been abandoned by everyone. Now, I have absolutely no one. I might even prefer it that way. All I really need is a guitar and my thoughts.

Just shy of my eighteenth birthday, I’m forced to move across the country to live with my uncle in California. He’s the head basketball coach at Acadia Lake Prep, the new private academy I’m attending. Ryder Cruz is his star player.

He makes me question things about myself and what I want. Things I’ve never once considered. The oversized and enthusiastic jock is always around, insisting I smile and laugh with him. But it won’t work. It can’t. The painful memories and regret I carry are too strong. I’m not sure I’ll ever feel again.

Ryder

Basketball is great. So are my friends. Dad. My little sister Sofie. I’m team captain, and I’m taking us to State.

It’s easy to forget that nothing is ever as it seems. I fight my demons with smiles and awkward jokes, but things are starting to pile up. Pranks between my guys and the rival public school, issues with my mother, and a secret I can’t tell anyone. A truth that holds me in its grasp. I can’t risk the team or my college acceptance—my future . Can’t risk my dream.

I’m gay. And no one can know.

It wasn’t as hard to keep this close to my chest until Fallon Rivers showed up with his big, sad eyes and bright blue hair. I’m not sure I can continue hiding who I am. I need this boy to smile. To talk to me. I need to spark some life back into his soul.

He doesn’t realize my dad and his uncle are partners, but he’ll find out soon enough. Sleepovers happen almost every weekend. And now that he’s here and staying for good, I guess he’ll just have to get used to my presence. Because I’m determined to make him feel again and maybe even free myself along the way.

Lost Boy is a 90,000-word friends-to-lovers gay romance. It is book three in The Loyal Boys Series, a collection of standalone contemporary M/M romances. You can expect opposites attract, forced proximity, hurt/comfort, steamy first times, and a supportive found family. This novel is intended for 18+ readers and contains explicit scenes, mild violence, language, and bullying from outside sources. See Author’s Note for a full list of Content Warnings.

Goodreads

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June 25, 2023

My Review: 5/5 Stars

Loving this series! This series has really grabbed me and this latest one is just another great addition! Fallon has been numb since his dad died. He lost not only his dad but his mom went off the deep end doing drugs, dating awful men, and it finally comes crashing down on her when she gets thrown in jail. When Fallon’s uncle Joel, his dad’s brother, comes to pick him up and bring him back to California with him, Fallon doesn’t expect much. He figures it will only be a matter of time before Joel doesn’t want him either. And with the numbness settling in more and more, he doesn’t seem to care. But Joel won’t give up on his nephew and he isn’t alone in that quest. Ryder is the son of Joel’s boyfriend. Ryder and his sister have been part of Joel’s family for the last few years and he knows that will never change. Their family is tight. When he first meets Fallon, he can see the sadness in him right away and he swears right there that he will make Fallon smile. What Ryder doesn’t expect is to fall for Fallon so fast. Not when he told himself he wouldn’t come out until his plans to play basketball in college is safe. He never wanted to risk his future not until Fallon. And for Fallon, being around Ryder makes him feel safe. Something he never had. And bit by bit, Ryder is squashing the numbness that has overtaken Fallon and for the first time in a long time, Fallon feels something. He is slowly waking up and learning what it is to be loved. Their story was just so sweet. They were this perfect example of opposites attract and balancing one another is really nice ways. I couldn’t put this story down! Definitely a favorite from this series.

[bookloveravenue]

Accidental Love (book 1): The Husband Hoax by Saxon James

Christian

Being invited to my cousin’s wedding really shouldn’t be such a big deal except, oh yeah, I haven't seen my family for a decade.

My parents turned their backs on me and I’ve done everything since to become successful and show them what they lost. Only, it’s kinda hard to be a success when you’re a walking trainwreck.

So I’m going to fake it. Hire a guy with an online presence so impressive they’ll be desperate to welcome me back into the elitist fold, and roll into the wedding with the kind of confidence I’ve never felt a day in my life.

The plan’s a knockout.

Until my fake date cancels minutes before the ceremony.

Émile

One letter from my dearly departed grandfather, and suddenly I’m on a husband hunt.

He’s reworked his entire will so I’m set to inherit far more than I'm entitled to, and all because he’s asked me to use that money for “good”.

In order to get that inheritance, though, there’s one stipulation: marriage.

Even with his request, I’m tempted to stick to my original plan of getting as far from my wretched family as possible, and letting them fight it out.

But then I run into a tall drink of scattered mess outside of a wedding who’s in desperate need of a date, and the pieces click into place.

I help him, he helps me.

Marriage, money, then go our separate ways.

Easy.

Now all I have to do is stop myself from actually falling for the guy.

https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/63212931-the-husband-hoax

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June 22, 2023

My Review: 5/5 Stars

Christian is the clumsiest and sweetest guy ever. So it’s no wonder when Emile crosses Christian’s path that it’s truly love at first sight. (Not that anyone will admit that just yet.) He really stood no chance to falling for Christian. And Christian learned quickly that Emile is perhaps the most honest and real and genuine person he has ever met. Christian hasn’t had it easy when his parents threw him out when he was 17 for being gay. Years later, he is invited to his cousin’s wedding and he wants to be there for her but also show his parents that he is put together (sorta) and deserves respect. But when his fake date falls ills, he is contemplating leaving. That is until Emile finds him. Emile was paying his respects at his grandfather’s wake. A man he genuinely cared for unliked the rest of his family (except his sister). And when he sees Christian he is struck by this sweet guy and when he hears his story, he immediately offers to help. And help he does. For every klutzy move Christian unfortunately makes, Emile is there to smooth it over. It’s adorable. And their chemistry is no natural, you would think the two of them have been together always. A crazy day leads to a crazy night. And then later a crazier plan. When Emile tells Christian about his inheritance and how he wants to do his grandfather proud by putting the money toward something that matters, Christian can’t help but want to support him. Especially after Emile rescued him. But to get his inheritance, Emile has to marry. And these two crazy guys decide to get engaged. As they jump through hoops with crazy family members and their shenanigans, they fall for one another a little more each day. And the lines blur between what is real and what is not. A lot stands in the way of a happy ending for them both, but together they’ll figure it out. I really loved this story! And I’m mad at myself for not picking it up sooner! Also took me until the end to realize one of the characters I just read in another of Saxon’s books. Everything truly does connect! But this story was just so fun. I couldn’t stop laughing and poor Christian just has the worst luck. But Emile is just always such a good sport. And instead of running in the opposite direction, it only brings him closer to Christian. Great chemistry and just an all around fun story! I’m looking forward to when the next book comes out!

[bookloveravenue]

Vancouver Orcas (book 2): Game Changer by Amy Aislin

It’s Blair Brawsiski’s ride or die year. After a decade in the AHL, if he doesn’t get called up to the NHL this season, it’s time to hang up his skates and focus on other things. But between a second job and family priorities, his attention isn’t where it should be, and his dreams of making it to the big leagues are dwindling by the day.

Hiring a personal assistant to help out with day-to-day stuff? Probably the smartest move Blair’s made in a while.

But when that PA turns out to be an assertive baker who’s exactly Blair’s type? Blair can’t help but wish those dexterous hands would knead something other than pastry dough. Namely, him.

Charlie Shore needs extra income. Desperately. With his expenses about to go up, it’s find a second job or get evicted. Getting hired as Blair’s PA is perfect: flexible hours, decent wages, and a scorching hot professional hockey player who’s willing to let him use his gorgeous kitchen for his baked goods.

Too bad that hockey player is exactly Charlie’s type. Too bad Charlie knows better than to date his new boss…

https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/123249526-game-changer

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June 21, 2023

My Review: 5/5 Stars

I was trying what to read when an ARC of this book popped up in my email! I was very excited to get my hands on it. And it turns out, I was so excited that I couldn’t put it down! This story was a lot of fun and Blair and Charlie are just so cute together. I was looking forward to getting their story after finding out they were next. To say Blair is busy is an understatement. Not only does he play for the AHL Vancouver Orcas, he also owns his own business with graphic design. And a family who relies on him for every little thing. When he isn’t babysitting or picking up his sister’s child, he is helping his parents at their deli. It’s a lot to juggle on top of hockey games and practices. So much so that his coach tells him to hire an assistant and gives him his cousin’s number. Charlie is a baker. And he hopes to one day be able to do custom orders and start his own business. In the meantime, he’ll keep his job working the kitchen for the NHL team in Vancouver and work his butt off to pay off his debt. And now he will be working for Blair where he mostly just has to cook for him. Neither expected the connection and sparks that fly between them when they meet. And suddenly the idea of being boss and employee sounds like a terrible idea. Or is it? It’ll only be a matter of time before these two give in to the feelings that are starting to build the more and more they get to know one another. Such a fun story! I adored Blair and Charlie. Both have so much going on and when they get together, they realize just how much they are doing and want to take a step back for the first time. And insecurities slowly drift away as they learn to trust and love one another. Really fun story and like I said, I couldn’t put it down! Definitely looking forward to the next book!

I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.

[bookloveravenue]

Up in Flames by Eden Finley & Saxon James

SANDEN

When it’s your job as groomsman to tell the groom his wedding isn’t happening, the smartest thing to do is get it over and done with and then tell the guests to leave.

Yeah, well, I never said I was smart.

I might … accidentally, maybe on purpose, suggest to Remy that the best form of revenge is to have a party anyway. I mean, he’s already got catering, a DJ, and guests, so what better time to throw a petty party?

My loser high school friend never deserved him anyway. If I’d had the chance, I would have locked Remy down years ago.

Only, when the party leads to a drunken kiss, going on their honeymoon, and sharing their marital bed, I have to say, I’m not entirely sad that their wedding went up in flames.

https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/124945464-up-in-flames

June 18, 2023

My Review: 5/5 Stars

Sanden has had feelings for Remy since the moment they met. But unfortunately before he could ask him out, his friend (but not really a friend) gets there first. Three years later, it's Remy's wedding day and he is left at the altar by Eman and Sanden is the one to tell him. And somehow that leads to having a petty party where Remy can get drown his sorrows. They even after end up finding themselves going on the honeymoon together so Sanden can be there for Remy. Remy has had mixed feelings bout his so called fiancé for a while now and after being left at the altar he begins to think his gut was right. But things are so complicated. Like Sanden. The man he once had a crush on but thought never liked him after he started dating Eman (along with some nifty lies from Eman as well). And the more Remy dwells on his new ex, the more red flags are going up. Sanden becomes a great support to Remy and things for them get complicated when feelings for one another come to light. However, their love story will be anything but easy. The two of them have a lot of things they have to deal with emotionally. And they know the dangers of starting anything too fast could hurt their future. A future that the two of them want more and more each day. I really loved this story! But oof, the angst and hurt and comfort that these two have to go through is quite a doozy. However, you can't help but cheer for the two of them to work their way back to one another once they can start to heal and solve these unresolved issues of their pasts. But! There is definitely plenty of romance between them and lots of laughs from them and other favorite characters throughout. I couldn't put the book down! This is one you don't wanna miss!

I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.

[bookloveravenue]

Lionheart Academy (book 3): Regretting You by T. Ashleigh

Tyler- Some days I wish I’d never met Gregory Baldwin. Then there are days when I feel like I’ll die if he’s away for too long. It’s like I’m addicted to him. Addicted to the attention he gives me and what he does to me in secret. He has lips made for sin and a body I can’t keep my hands off of, but mostly, I know he has a heart. That’s what keeps me coming back. Now he’s cruel, malicious, possessive… nothing like the boy I once knew. And yet, deep down, I know that guy is still there under this bad boy exterior. He has to be, or everything we’ve been through is pointless. Being with him feels like dying and surviving all at once. It’s wild, manic, and soul-crushing, but it’s us. He’s all I’ve ever had and the only thing I’ll ever want. Because even when I hate him… I love him ten times harder.

Greg- I’m broken beyond repair, too fucked up to be saved. My mind fights demons daily, while the shattered organ in my chest only causes me pain. I wish I could just end it all. Say goodbye to this miserable existence. Only, to leave this life would mean leaving him, and that’s not something I can do. Once I made a promise to a boy that I plan on keeping. The years may have dragged us apart, and I know he hates me now, but that’s okay. I don’t blame him; I hate myself, too. Regardless of the animosity, one thing remains the same: Tyler. He’s the constant in a haze of self-destruction. The one who somehow, after everything, is still there for me, no matter how badly I mess up. I don’t deserve him. I never did, but I’ll never let him go either. He is mine, and I am his.

Betting You is the third book in The Lionheart Academy series. It's a full length, new adult high school novel with material that may be difficult for some readers. It’s recommended for 18+ due to language and sexual situations. Please read trigger warnings before proceeding.

Regretting You (Lionheart Academy #3)

Tyler- Some days I wish I’d never met Gregory Baldwin. …

June 18, 2023

My Review: 5/5 Stars

We finally get Greg and Tyler's story! I've been looking forward to this one. We've seen so much negativity from Greg, I really couldn't wait to see what was going on in his head and see why he was the way he was. And ugh. Be ready for the hurt. This story is pretty heartbreaking for Greg and Tyler as they find their way back to one another. Greg and Tyler became friends when they were kids and Greg's mom was like a second mother to Tyler when his own family was anything but. Both were happy and unknowing to them, slowly falling in love. But everything changed the mom Greg's mother unexpectedly died. Greg was devastated and hurt and scared and he did the one thing he could think of to avoid feeling like this ever again. Pushing away the one other person he loved more than anything: Tyler. But pushing him away was the last thing he should have done because the pain of his loss has only grown worse over the next three years. And things are about to crack. Tyler never forgave Greg for pushing him away and hurting him. He can't understand how he can love and hate someone the way he does Greg. He doesn't want to open himself up to him again just to get hurt, yet he can't help himself. These two hit a point and next thing they know, they are hooking up in secret through their senior year. But there are still so many unresolved issues between the two of them. Things that need to be said. And it's only a matter of time until they'll have no choice. Loved this final story in this series! All the feels. Your heart will ache for the two of them and knowing how much pain they both are in. I just wanted to shake the two of them and demand they just tell the other everything they are feeling. Their story is heartbreakingly beautiful and so worth the wait as they figure themselves out and break down and build themselves back up. Such a beautiful series and I'm so sad to see it end!

I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.

[bookloveravenue]

Love, Theoretically by Aliz Hazelwood

The many lives of theoretical physicist Elsie Hannaway have finally caught up with her. By day, she’s an adjunct professor, toiling away at grading labs and teaching thermodynamics in the hopes of landing tenure. By other day, Elsie makes up for her non-existent paycheck by offering her services as a fake girlfriend, tapping into her expertly honed people pleasing skills to embody whichever version of herself the client needs.

Honestly, it’s a pretty sweet gig—until her carefully constructed Elsie-verse comes crashing down. Because Jack Smith, the annoyingly attractive and broody older brother of her favorite client, turns out to be the cold-hearted experimental physicist who ruined her mentor’s career and undermined the reputation of theorists everywhere. And that same Jack who now sits on the hiring committee at MIT, right between Elsie and her dream job.

Elsie is prepared for an all-out war of scholarly sabotage but…those long, penetrating looks? Not having to be anything other than her true self when she’s with him? Will falling into an experimentalist’s orbit finally tempt her to put her most guarded theories on love into practice?

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June 17, 2023

My Review: 5/5 Stars

Ali Hazelwood has easily become one of my favorite authors. She writes fantastic romances with strong leads of female scientists. Humor that is brilliant and quirky with each character. And guys you can't help but wish existed. I loved her books and this latest one is just another great addition to her works. This story follows Elsie. A theoretical physicist in the search of getting a job where she can research and stop teaching (she really does not like being an adjunct professor). She especially needs a better job to keep her financially afloat, especially when she has a medical condition. And when she becomes a finalist for position she really wants, she just has to pass the last few interviews and tests. But things get complicated. Her other job has finally proven that the world is indeed that small. So when she isn't teaching and researching, she gets paid to be someone's girlfriend. Something Elsie excels at because during the years she has mastered reading people and shaping herself to be the person they need her to be. And when her latest client's brother is on the committee that will determine her future, things reach way beyond complicated. Jack has been suspicious of Elsie since day one along with something else that Elsie isn't quite sure of. But now all he sees is a liar and poor Elsie can't explain. Not yet. Not without giving away his brother's secrets. However, things don't stay this way for too long. And it is truthfully just the beginning of their story. There is more history, a bit of a rivalry between then, some enemies-to-lovers, and just so many other pieces of their story. And I loved every moment of it. Elsie and Jack were just so great together! Jack is the one person Elsie can't read and it forces to be herself for the first time ever. And she isn't sure what to make of that, but she is learning. And you can just tell how much Jack adores Elsie, even when she can't see it at first. Absolutely adored this story and devoured it in a day. You won't want to miss this!

[bookloveravenue]

The Loyal Boys (book 2): Bad Boy by Charli Meadows

Linc

This small town is stifling, and my parents are overbearing. They only care about how others perceive us and sustaining the family legacy. I’m drowning from the pressure they’ve placed on me to be the perfect son, have perfect grades, and wear perfect, preppy clothes. No parties, no friends, no trouble, and certainly no fun.

But everything changes when chaos storms into town in the form of Remington Michaels. The mysterious and dangerous new kid everyone is whispering about. They say he killed someone at his old school. That he’s a brutal fighter. But I don’t believe it. Not with the way he’s always there—protecting me, watching me, touching me.

I have no idea what’s brewing between us, but I’m helpless to stop it when we find ourselves sharing a cabin and becoming friends with benefitsall in the first week. You see, he really is a bad boy. But maybe, just maybe, I could be good for him.

Remi

After getting arrested and expelled from my old school in Detroit, Mom had no choice but to move us back to her hometown. Somewhere I’ve never even been. And we’re staying with my eccentric grandpa, whom I’ve never even met.

This new neighborhood—this new school—isn’t what I expected for a place tucked deep in the mountains of North Carolina. The elitism, the bullies, the social structures—I want no part of it. But then I meet the shy, stumbling Lincoln Anderson. He ignites something inside of me, and I’m drawn to him—his goodness, his quiet resolution. I can’t leave him alone. Won’t leave him alone. Even when an unknown threat from my past endangers everything.

I’m no stranger to putting my fists up, and it doesn’t take long to decide that I’ll wreck anyone who steps near Linc. The thing is, he doesn’t want me to. They say I’m a bad boy, but I think maybe I could be good for him.

Bad Boy is a 96,000-word friends-with-benefits-to-lovers gay romance. It is book two in The Loyal Boys Series, a collection of standalone contemporary M/M romances. You can expect opposites attract, forced proximity, hurt/comfort, and steamy first times. This novel is intended for 18+ readers and contains explicit scenes, violence, language, and bullying from outside sources. See Author’s Note for a full list of Content Warnings.

https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/69551468-bad-boy

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June 15, 2023

My Review: 5/5 Stars

In trouble and arrested again, Remi's mom has had enough. She decides to take him back to her hometown for a fresh start. The same place she ran away when she was sixteen and pregnant. Remi has no idea about the life his mom lived before she left with his terrible drunk father. But after meeting is grandpa and the place his lives, he can't help but feel cheated about the life he could have had. Especially when he meets Lincoln. The boy next door and the boy who captures his heart from the moment they meet. Lincoln has been stuck doing everything his parents want of him. He has no control over his life, and he doesn't really have many friends. He can't just be himself. But that changes when he meets bad boy Remi. Remi who actually cares about him, wants to protect him, and just lets Lincoln be who he wants to be. There is no pretending with Remi. And it doesn't take very long for them to jump right into being something more so soon after they meet. Is it crazy? Maybe. But both know that the spark between them isn't something you can find every day. However, trouble is on the horizon when Remi starts getting threatening texts. Someone from his past is coming after him. His father? Someone he beat in his illegal street fights? Doesn't matter to Remi because no matter how terrified he may of these threats, he has those he loves to protect. And he'll fight whoever in order to keep them safe. Really loved this story! Devoured it immediately. Remi and Lincoln had great chemistry despite being opposites. They just worked and it was easy to see how these two fell for one another so quickly. Definitely looking forward to the next book in this series!

[bookloveravenue]

The Loyal Boys (book 1): Cali Boy by Charli Meadows

Finn

One devastating night. One tragic accident.

I survived, but the boy I used to be didn’t.

And I’ve been on a downward spiral of anger and resentment ever since. That is until my father makes a selfish decision that changes the course of my life and my future.

It brings him into it.

Golden-haired surfer boy, Oliver Chase.

Sunshine personified, and my new stepbrother.

I want to hate him, but his shy smiles and endearing dimples have me questioning everything I thought I knew about myself. I definitely don’t deserve him and I’ll probably hurt him, but the ease with which he breaks down the walls surrounding my battered heart might not leave me with a choice.

Oliver

I don’t look back when Mom moves us from our sleepy California beach town to the wealthy suburbs of Chicago. I need a fresh start, to leave all the negativity and hate behind me, and I’m taking it.

But I wasn’t expecting the grumpy, brooding, hurt boy that bangs on my bedroom door. Nor was I expecting the toxic relationship he has with his dad, my mom’s new husband.

With mounting tensions at school and at home, I’m not sure how to feel about this fresh start anymore, but what I do know is that Finn’s tender touches and growly commands make me want him. And you should never lust after a straight boy… especially your new stepbrother.

Cali Boy is an 88,000 word M/M stepbrother romance. It is a standalone and you can expect grumpy/sunshine, hurt/comfort, and steamy first times. This novel is intended for 18+ readers and touches on some sensitive subjects.

https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/61432063-cali-boy

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June 15, 2023

My Review: 5/5 Stars

Finn has been struggling ever since the car accident him and his mom got into and ended up taking her life. His father and him have a terrible relationship and Finn can't help but blame himself for the accident. Even though it wasn't his fault by a drunk driver's. And things are about to change once more when his father announces that he has remarried and that she and her son are moving in the next day. Talk about a bit of a shock. Finn wants to hate to hate Vivian and Oliver on principal but the moment he meets them. He knows he is in trouble. Despite loving California, Oliver is happy to leave it for a new start. After he friends turned on him after he told him he was gay, he has had enough of the bullying. Even if it means he is about to meet his stepfather and stepbrother. But as long as his mom is happy then he's happy. What he doesn't expect is for the pull he has toward Finn the moment they meet. He can see a certain sadness and hurt inside of Finn, but Finn only ever shows Oliver that he is protective and caring in everything he does. Oliver has never felt safer than when he is with Finn. The tension between them only gets stronger the more they get to know one another. And when their parents are away for their honeymoon, it won't take long for these two to embrace their feelings. Really loved this story! Finn and Oliver were such a great pair. Finn might be a bit broody and grumpy, but Oliver brings out a softer to side to him. A happier one after suffering for so long after losing his mom and essentially his dad. And Oliver gets to finally just be himself and feel safe for once. This was a great story all around with plenty of ups and downs and twists and turns. I couldn't put it down! Definitely looking forward to the next book in this series.

[bookloveravenue]

Kate Daniels (book 10.6): Magic Claims by Ilona Andrews

A new town, new friends, new challenges…. And a new heart-stopping adventure from #1 New York Times bestselling author, Ilona Andrews. Kate, Curran, and Conlan may have left Atlanta for Wilmington, but the usual magic mayhem has also hitched a ride!

Kate and Curran have just settled into their new home and their 'low prolife,' when a local businessman approaches them with an offer they can’t refuse. A mysterious evil has spawned in the nearby forest and is holding a defenseless town hostage. The ‘due date’ is rapidly approaching.

It’s exactly the kind of fight the Lennarts can’t resist, not for the prize the town offers, but for the people who will surely die if they ignore it. If they succeed, they’ll be rescuing an entire community and can build a strong new base for their family and the Wilmington Pack. If they fail...well, fail is a four-letter word.

Nothing comes without a price. Now Kate must decide if she has what it takes to pay it.

https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/109554429-magic-claims

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My Review: 5/5 Stars

Keeping a low profile has become harder and harder for Kate and Curran. And with this latest threat at their doorstep, they'll have decide how their future, and that of their son's, is going to look. But as they contemplate their choices, this new threat has them on their toes. Faced with something they have never dealt with before, they'll have to be smart if they want to survive. Their latest adventure calls them to a small town where an evil has taken the town and its people hostage for the last few years. Enough is enough, and when the the evil reminds the town of their deadline to sacrifice more people from their town, Kate and Curran will not let any more lives be thrown away. Really enjoying this stage of Kate and Curran's lives. They've really grown from the people we say back in book one. But they are still the characters we know and love to their core. Their son, Conlan, is a perfect mixture of the two of them and it's a blast when he makes an appearance. A lot of change is coming for these guys and we are being set up for quite an interesting future. One, I hope, we get to see. You don't want to miss the latest in the Kate Daniels world!

[bookloveravenue]

Blood and Ash (book 5): A Soul of Ash and Blood by Jennifer L. Armentrout

Only his memories can save her…

A great primal power has risen. The Queen of Flesh and Fire has become the Primal of Blood and Bone—the true Primal of Life and Death. And the battle Casteel, Poppy, and their allies have been fighting has only just begun. Gods are awakening across Iliseeum and the mortal realm, readying for the war to come.

But when Poppy falls into stasis, Cas faces the very real possibility that the dire, unexpected consequences of what she is becoming could take her away from him. Cas is given some advice, though—something he plans to cling to as he waits to see her beautiful eyes open once more: Talk to her.

And so, he does. He reminds Poppy how their journey began, revealing things about himself that only Kieran knows in the process. But it’s anybody’s guess what she’ll wake to or exactly how much of the realm and Cas will have changed when she does.

#1 New York Times bestselling author Jennifer L. Armentrout revisits Poppy and Casteel’s epic love story in the next installment of the Blood and Ash series. But this time, Hawke gets to tell the tale.

https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/63847274-a-soul-of-ash-and-blood

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June 11, 2023

My Review: 5/5 Stars

This book was everything you could have wanted in a Casteel point of view story. Taking place shortly after the previous book, Casteel and Poppy are about to fight a battle they never have before. Instead of fighting an enemy they can they, their enemy is simply time. Time for Poppy to complete the final steps as she becomes the Primal of Life and Death. But there may be a very small catch of possibility as she rests in stasis. Advice given to Casteel? Talk to her. And what better way to remind Poppy of their story than to start at the beginning? It's time to find out exactly what was going on with Casteel during From Blood and Ash.

We learn SO many things about him and others during this time. I loved going back and seeing how he was feeling, turns out Casteel had quite a lot of mixed feelings during this time. And not only that, he was (and honestly still is) dealing with his capture. We get to see how deep that runs. Casteel is complicated and your heart goes out to him more to realize just how far it goes. We get to see many scenes I'm sure everyone wanted to see in his point of view. And most importantly, we get to see how he fell in love with Poppy, even when he didn't know it himself. I also loved that we get to see things that made no sense to Casteel at the time but came together later. What I loved most about this story though was that we weren't completely in the past. If you read the sneak peek of the first 3 chapters, you know the story starts in present day. And that is sprinkled throughout. Which again explains why Jennifer said that this book is truly book 5 and makes sense to read at this point rather than right after FBAA. Those pieces were my favorite because we got a lot of new information (the end alone had me reeling!!) and we get to see some reflection from Casteel. Also some hints of information that we have yet to learn but are promised to come later!! (You'll know exactly what I'm talking about when you see it.) This was important to me because it kept the series going in an important way.

I really adored this story and it was just another great addition to this series. I can't wait for the next ones coming and this world has only gotten more interesting and complex as the series goes on. You definitely do not want to miss this book!!

I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.