ebooklove – booksofthemuggleborn

Sins Of The Father: Brayden by Nicole James

Adult Romance, ARC Review, Book Review, Book Reviews, Contemporary, MC Romance, Romance, Suspense

⚠ This review contains a minor teaser!

booksofthemuggleborn_brayden — Original post from my IG @booksofthemuggleborn

•••

• BLURB •

Brayden is the son of the California Chapter President.
Rebel is the Alabama Chapter’s club princess and off-limits to any man wearing a patch.

There’s been conflict between Cole and Shades since Shades was a lowly prospect trying to earn his patch. Now, two decades later, they still have their differences.

When a club funeral brings the California chapter to town to pay their respects, Rebel catches Brayden’s eye, and it brings on an MC family feud with the two lovers caught in the middle.

But Brayden and Rebel are soul mates, and they’ll be damned if anyone will keep them apart.

•••

• MY REVIEW •

“Loving you is the easy part. The rest we’ll figure out.”

I’m calling it— Brayden is my favourite MMC from the Evil Dead MC second generation! He went from someone who, I’m embarrassed to admit wasn’t even on my radar, to someone who ended up having my undivided attention.

And now? I 👏WANT 👏MORE OF 👏BRAYDEN! 🤭

A Romeo and Juliet inspired forbidden romance? Hell yeah! James has written another easy-going romance read that I positively devoured in one go. It gave me the feels. I felt for the characters’ predicament so much so, that I was on the edge of my seat anxious to see how it would all turn out for Brayden and Rebel.

It’s fast-paced yet punchy, gripping, and sated my swooning, romance-loving heart. Not as in-depth as I would’ve liked, but having already read (and loved) the Evil Dead MC first-gen series, it helped fill backstories amongst the MC brothers and their families. If you haven’t read them, you can absolutely dive-in before or even after reading Brayden.

But what a full-circle moment Brayden brings to the original Evil Dead MC! Reading this one gave me such nostalgia that I reread Outlaw, Crash, and Shades because I wasn’t ready to close the book (no pun intended) on Cole and Angel, and Shades and Skylar just yet. Even seeing character crossover from the original series to this next one was an epic sight to see. Although, I don’t think I’ll ever accept that any of the first-gen brothers have aged. 🙈🤭

In all seriousness, this story is a prime example of the premise of this next gen series— Brayden and Rebel being forced to tackle the repercussions of their fathers (and the club’s) wrongdoings.

I’m not sure if I’ve mentioned this in any of my previous reviews for the second-gen books, but Green is surprising me more and more with the role he has played in the lives of the next-gen characters. I’m loving it, and I’m loving that as established a character that he already is, he still seems to be growing and evolving as a character. He’s one secondary character that was an unexpected yet welcomed support system. He’s come a long way from the initial comic relief of the group.

Rebel is probably my favourite second-gen FMC too. She’s just so damn likable that I was all-in with her and Brayden’s story from the get-go. There’s also just the right number of intimate scenes included with fairly mid-level spice. It’s the build-up between Brayden and Rebel that really had me thirsting. 🤤

An MC-lite, forbidden romance story with a smidge of action and suspense here and there. Just enough to keep you on your toes. I’ve loved the initial world-building created and this next-gen series has expanded it by introducing new characters and fresh club business. Brotherhood has always been a solid element in James’ MC books and it’s one of the elements I always look forward to seeing. With the addition of Brayden, I got to see just as much of the familial dynamics and friendships as the romantic relationship. The banter is always an instant mood-booster especially when tensions are high. But I also liked seeing that all joking aside, Brayden and his brother, albeit complex, have quite a bond.

Although it’s an overall light-hearted MC romance, this story does contain sensitive themes that some readers may find triggering. It broaches on death, addiction/substance abuse, and depression. Just take into consideration before starting it.

Brayden and Rebel go through a rollercoaster, and I’ll most likely be in the minority, but I wasn’t completely content with how their biggest predicament was settled, but I can’t say I was at all surprised either. Nevertheless, with a whirlwind romance full of drama, angst, and longing, they are an amazing pair. Despite their relationship growing serious relatively fast, at the same time there was a genuine connection present that developed organically due to the fortuitous circumstances they found themselves in. I wished their book was longer as I truly enjoyed reading their story all too much.

Total comfort read. Effortless to follow. Great fictional escapism with an incredibly entertaining cast of characters. As an international reader (outside of the US audience), I was transported to vivid settings without having to step outside my front door. The book also concludes on a juicy little teaser for the next story in the series that had me perking up with anticipation.

RATING: ⭐⭐⭐⭐½

Thank you Nicole James and Give Me Books PR for the opportunity to read an advance copy! 💛

🔔 Interested in reading Brayden? Grab your copy here: Amazon US | Amazon UK | Amazon CA | Amazon AU

•••

Evil Dead MC: Second Generation

Sins Of The Father

Sins Of The Father: Marcus by Nicole James

Sins Of The Father: Billy by Nicole James

Sins Of The Father: TJ by Nicole James

Sins Of The Father: Reckless by Nicole James

•••

💀 Evil Dead MC Series

First Generation

Evil Dead MC Series by Nicole James

Wicked by Nicole James

Green by Nicole James

•••

More MC Romance by Nicole James

Spin-off Series: Devil Kings MC

Dirty Deeds by Nicole James

Dirty Deals by Nicole James

Dirty Desires by Nicole James

Royal Bastards MC: Durango, CO

Club Princess by Nicole James

Climbing The Ranks by Nicole James

Keeping The Throne by Nicole James

Enforcing The Rules by Nicole James

•••

Happy reading, guys! Catch you in my next one!

The Wildflower by J.L. Beck

ARC Review, Book Review, Book Reviews, Contemporary, Dark Romance, New Adult Fiction, Romance, Suspense

⚠ This review contains a minor teaser!

booksofthemuggleborn_thewildflower — Original post from my IG @booksofthemuggleborn

•••

• BLURB •

Drew Marshall is the epitome of a walking nightmare.

Deranged. Psychotic. Immoral.

After breaking my heart and publicly humiliating me, I vow to forget his existence.

He has other plans, though, and vows to make certain I don’t.

The only one I can turn to for help is a man I thought to be my enemy.

Drew’s best friend Sebastian who claims to be my brother.

He promises me security and protection. But no one can protect me from Drew.

The faster I run, the more he chases.

The harder I struggle, the tighter his grip becomes.

My enemy. My stalker. My villain.

It’s wrong, but I can’t stop myself from craving his rough touch, filthy words, and the dark promise of pleasure he gives me. They say the truth will set you free, but ours didn’t do that. It locked us inside the cage and tossed away the key.

**This is book 2 in the Oakmount Elite series and is NOT a standalone. This must be read after The Wallflower. Please be sure to check the author note at the start of the book if you have triggers. This book contains dark subject matter, sexual situations, and questionable morals.**

•••

• MY REVIEW •

“You are mine, and I don’t give up what’s mine. Not ever.”

Ahh, young love. Angsty. Drawn-out. An emotional merry-go-round. 🥴😜

Drew and Maybel are locked in a push-and-pull of the grandest proportions. Where The Wallflower was fast-paced, thrilling, and gets your blood pumping with excitement. The Wildflower slows its roll, taunts you to brink of madness, and has you constantly questioning the characters— their actions, their game plans, their motives, and their ultimate end goal.

This second book leaves you with more questions than what you may have initially started with. There are secrets that still need to be uncovered, and this book sets it all up for the next installment in the series.

Drew and Maybel, this duet, their dysfunctional world… they are an acquired taste. It’s not going to be for every romance reader. You either already love dark, twisted romances or open to reading them, triggers and all. It’ll be hard, but all good sense and morality really need to be left at the door when it comes to these MCs. They’re young, they’re rich, they’re entitled. Lol.

This is a duet and a continuous storyline. Like the first book, this one also broaches on sensitive subject matters that some readers may find disturbing such as domestic and family abuse, bullying, drugging, blackmail, violence, and death. It’s intended for readers of age.

It also includes explicit sexual content, some of which is con/dub-con. You can expect plenty of smutty scenes throughout, prolonged teasing, and slow-burn romance.

This book is smut heavy. It’s also character-driven with emotions on high. Whilst there is a storyline, it’s not necessarily as fleshed-out and doesn’t contain a lot of character growth as I would’ve liked or expected. But with the way it’s written and the way it has concluded, I suspect it will only develop further as the series expands.

The secondary characters are just as intriguing as the leading characters, that I found myself perking up whenever they made appearances. With their own narratives developing in the background, they brought about depth to the story and added more layers to the overall world-building. There’s an intricate allies-to-enemies and back again dynamic amongst them that made me second-guess how genuine their friendships really are, but at the same time chalking it all up to how dramatic and changeable relationships can be at their age. That the highs and lows, the lighthearted banter and occasional fights are all realistic, relatable traits. This story is very much about friendships as it is about Drew’s and Bel’s romantic relationship. Although complex, the found-family that organically developed was another highlight, and an element that I’m hoping to seeing more of in the future.

The third half of the story is my favourite part of the book. The storytelling picked up pace, a lot of new developments took place, and it felt like things between Drew, Bel, and even Sebastian were finally moving forward. The same sense of excited anticipation started trickling back in that was initially present in the first book.

If you enjoy dark academia romances where the upper crust mixes it up with the common folk, Oakmount Elite may very well be up your alley. Drew and Maybel will take you on a tour around high society that’s filled with greed, cravings, explicit sex, violence, secrets and corruption.

I can’t wait for the next book. I’m very curious to read Sebastian’s story.

RATING: ⭐⭐⭐⭐

Thank you J.L. Beck and Candi Kane PR for the opportunity to read an advance copy! 💜

🔔 Interested in reading this Oakmount Elite duet? Grab your copy here:

Book One | The Wallflower: Amazon US | Amazon UK | Amazon CA | Amazon AU
Book Two | The Wildflower: Universal Link

•••

🌺 Oakmount Elite Series

booksofthemuggleborn_thewallflower — Original post from my IG @booksofthemuggleborn

Book One: The Wallflower by J.L. Beck

•••

More Dark Romance by J.L. Beck

Stolen Bride by J.L. Beck & C. Hallman

Savage Beginnings by J.L. Beck & C. Hallman

Violent Beginnings by J.L. Beck & C. Hallman

Fragile Wings by J.L. Beck & C. Hallman

•••

Happy reading, guys! Catch you in my next one!

Kinks Of A Billionaire by Eva Winners

Adult Romance, ARC Review, Book Review, Book Reviews, Contemporary, Dark Romance, Romance, Suspense

⚠ This review contains a minor teaser!

booksofthemuggleborn_kinksofabillionaire — Original post from my IG @booksofthemuggleborn

•••

• BLURB •

Royce Ashford.

The hottest man I’d ever met.

The first man I’d fallen for.

I’ve had a crush on my best friend’s older brother for as long as I could remember. His charm and sex appeal could seduce a saint, never mind a sex-crazed woman.

With his cocky grin, those broad shoulders, and that filthy mouth, he was a heartbreaker in a leather jacket. And a leading man in every single one of my naughty fantasies.

The first time I kissed him, we ended up locked in the friend zone forever. Apparently my smooching skills left much to be desired. In my defense, I was too young and inexperienced.

But I grew up and totally got over him.

Until my engagement fell apart and Royce swooped in like a prince charming, saving me.

One tiny problem.

I was falling for him all over again. My lustful imagination, raging hormones and accidental glimpses of Royce’s nakedness weren’t helping. Neither were the rumors of Royce’s kinky tendencies.

But I refuse to be a footnote in Royce’s life. If we were doing this, we’d do it all.

We’d go all the way.

•••

• MY REVIEW •

“Willow and I had been years in the making, we just didn’t know it.”

Oh my oh my oh my…

*Flails arms*

*Fans face*

Sheesh. 🥵

Talk about a super-hot change of pace from the rest of the Ashford brothers from the Billionaire Kings series. Don’t get me wrong, the previous books are equally steamy, but they also all consisted of angsty heartbreak within in-depth storylines. This book was pure unadulterated sex… and I would’ve been nutso not to have enjoyed the hell out of it! Willow’s and Royce’s book is the epitome of “here for good time, not a long time”.

It was fast-paced. It was smutty. It was… *singsong voice* 🙌 glorious!

I’m always up for a juicy dark billionaire romance with tons of build-up, but sometimes it’s refreshing to just sit back and escape into a fun, undemanding erotic read.

Let’s get the obvious romantic element out of the way. Kinks! Yes, its presence is strong. This would be little treat for readers who enjoy BDSM in their romance books. For full transparency, I’m not a particular fan of this element especially when it’s at an extreme level. Luckily for me, the BDSM included in this book was on the moderate side— some voyeurism, some spanking, and some exhibitionism. Alongside your usual teasing, praising kink, and dirty talk.

Although it’s an overall spicy romance read, please note it does contain triggering content that some readers may find disturbing to read through. It includes domestic abuse, explicit violence, drugging, kidnapping, and attempted sexual assault. It’s intended for readers 18+ only.

The “friends-to-lovers” romance trope tend to be a bit of hit or miss for me. But intertwining it with the “secret crush” and the “forbidden romance” tropes made it all the more gripping. Willow and Royce have such a loving and playful relationship that their life-long friendship felt authentic. There interactions ooze out effortless comfortability that always ended up making me smile. Even with their age difference, they were in the same wavelength.

Besides the romance there were a lot of other highlights. One being the Ashfords. Whether they’re playfully ribbing one another or banding together to mete-out vengeance, their interactions never fail to keep things entertaining. There are strong familial support systems present. Willow’s family are exceptional. They’re your quintessential loving family dynamic in a world where the majority are cruel and corrupt.

There’s a great balance of lightheartedness to the grimmer portions of the story. It’s constantly progressing and told from multiple POVs. Whilst this is a standalone, it’s interconnected with the rest of the series through the cast of characters as they all crossover.

Willow and Royce have a sweet and spicy relationship going on. After years of staving off their desires, once their relationship evolved from platonic to romantic, there was no holds barred. This couple is in heat! 🤭 You have been warned, there is an abundance of explicit sexual content— fetishes incorporated!

All in all, I think it was fun book to end the series on. It’s a cool change-up to have an Ashford brother who hadn’t had as bad a backstory as his other siblings. I adored his friendship with Willow and aside from his kinky side, he’s quite the doting gentleman.

The writing itself is effortless to follow. Even with the occasional flashbacks to the past, there was a seamless flow to the story. This is not one of those books that’s plot-heavy, and there isn’t much character growth either, but it does have great characters and the various backdrops featured really puts you in such wanderlust.

I couldn’t read it fast enough and easily finished it in one sitting. It’s a must-read for fans of this series and the expansive interconnected world Winners has created. If you’re fan of billionaire romances that are on the dirty side, consider adding this one to your TBR.

RATING: ⭐⭐⭐⭐½

Thank you Eva Winners and Megan Pagnano-Gatanis (The Next Step PR) for the opportunity to read an advance copy! ❤

🔔 Interested in reading Kinks Of A Billionaire? Grab your copy here: Universal Link

•••

More books by Eva Winners

👑 Billionaire Kings

Contract Of A Billionaire by Eva Winners

Misdeeds Of A Billionaire by Eva Winners

Secrets Of A Billionaire by Eva Winners

Reign Of A Billionaire by Eva Winners

•••

🌹 Belles & Mobsters

Belles & Mobsters: Sasha by Eva Winners

Belles & Mobsters: Luca by Eva Winners

•••

💀 Kingpins Of The Syndicate

Corrupted Pleasure by Eva Winners

Villainous Kingpin by Eva Winners

Devious Kingpin by Eva Winners

•••

🥀 Thorns Of Omertà

Thorns Of Omertà Duet by Eva Winners

Thorns Of Death by Eva Winners

Thorns Of Silence by Eva Winners

•••

✨ Stolen Empire Trilogy

Bitter Prince by Eva Winners

Unforgiving Queen by Eva Winners

Wrathful King by Eva Winners

•••

Happy reading, guys! Catch you in my next one!

Burnout by Rebecca Jenshak

ARC Review, Book Review, Book Reviews, Contemporary, New Adult Fiction, Romance, Romantic Comedy Fiction, Sports Romance

⚠ This review contains a minor teaser!

booksofthemuggleborn_burnout — Original post from my IG @booksofthemuggleborn

•••

• BLURB •

He’s the hot, tattooed bad boy that I traded insults with…and now he wants my help?

Knox Holland is in a jam. After an incredible first year on the pro motocross circuit, he should be on top of the world. Instead, his bad reputation has landed him without a team. He’s untouchable and desperate to turn it around.

Which is how he ends up at my gym asking me to train him. As a college gymnast with two Olympic medals to my name, I know a thing or two about the pressure to succeed. Last season I choked and then injured myself before I could show the world that I’m not a twenty-year-old has-been.

Focused on the future, I can’t afford to get distracted. But I recognize the desperation in Knox’s eyes, and I can’t say no to him, either.

It should have been an easy task, but nothing about Knox is easy. One minute we’re arguing, and the next I’m enjoying his shirtless handstands a little too much.

Falling for him would be a mistake…

Burnout is a sports romance with a cocky bad boy, spice, banter, and a happily ever after.

•••

• MY REVIEW •

“He looks like an advertisement for bad boys, and everything inside of me screams, sign me the hell up.”

🤘 Landed a “double nac four sixty!” Hehe.

For the entire duration of this book, I was in cinnamon roll HEAVEN!! 😍🤭 I, too was right beside Avery swooning over Knox, and motorbikes, and everything BURNOUT related! This book is… *singsong voice* incredible!

It’s one of those romance books that was just easy reading. I was instantaneously pulled into a world of motocross, and gymnastics, and college parties. I hadn’t even finished the first chapter yet and I already knew that it would become an all-time favourite of mine.

This story is one part romance, one part athleticism, and one part family. It’s really well-paced and displays amazing world-building. There are various backdrops— from the race tracks, to the gymnasium, to old local haunts, to even the Holland household. They helped create a cohesive, flowing storytelling, and effortlessly transported me into each scene. They’re all vivid in their own way and I loved that Knox and Avery took me into their respective worlds.

Those who’ve read the Campus Wallflowers series would already be familiar with Knox Holland. He, along with his brothers were first introduced in their oldest brother Hendrick’s story; Tempting The Player. Burnout is the first spin-off (of sorts) centred on the Holland brothers. I recommend reading Hendrick’s book if you haven’t. You’ll get your first peep into the Holland household, their complex but highly intriguing brotherly dynamics, and an insight into their diverse personalities. Both stories are set in the same world, and trust me when I say, once you get a taste of Valley U, you’ll be hooked.

I love sports romances, and this one had two for the price of one. Motocross and Gymnastics. Two types of sports I’ve actually never encountered in my romance reads, so it was a refreshing story. Knox and Avery are such loveable characters who are from completely different worlds, yet as their relationship gradually develops from platonic to romantic, their lives begin to interconnect. I love the appreciation and admiration they have for one another’s respective sport. Seeing these MCs become the biggest advocates of each other, not only made their friendship feel genuine, but it made their romantic relationship that much more extensive.

There’s a sweet build-up to their relationship that lingers slow-burn territory without the torture of wondering when they’ll get-together already because the banter and spicy flirting is constant. They’re simmering, marinating, cooking… whatever you wanna call it. But make no mistakes, once the sexual tension bubbles over, it’s ON! 🔥

Besides Knox’s and Avery’s relationship, I quickly became obsessed with the secondary cast of characters. Jenshak writes the most warm, authentic friendships, and Avery and Quinn’s close-knit one is just as engaging and heartwarming to see. True sisterhood right there!

There are a few secondary storylines occurring in the background that added a ton of layers to the overall narrative, and each one is just as in-depth as the next. I quickly became equally obsessed with Quinn and her boyfriend Colter’s relationship that I’m now in desperate need to see more of them. The Holland brothers are a dynamic group and bring about comic relief and relatable sibling interactions whenever dealing with realistic family matters.

Although it’s an overall lighthearted romance story, these characters also deal with tough situations, some of which are sensitive and can be triggering for some readers. It deals with parental abandonment and death, and shows the effects caused on those who’ve experienced it firsthand. These characters have insecurities, fears, and hang-ups that many (including myself) can relate to. But it also showcases their determination to overcome, to adapt, and to grow.

It’s well-thought-out and well-executed. The quality of writing is up there that I was able to connect with the characters immediately. It had the perfect balance of light and shade and self-assurance and raw vulnerability. When I wasn’t smiling like crazy, my heart was in my throat feeling for these fictional people.

Knox the broody, emotionally armoured hero and the “wear your heart on your sleeve” heroine Avery took me on an emotional ride of epic proportions!

This has gone straight to my pile of all-time comfort reads. It’s definitely one I will come back to whenever mood strikes or when I need a pick-me-up. It’s one of those books that leaves you in happy contentment, yet excited for what’s to come next.

As far as full-length novels go, this one is a fairly decent-sized read. Told from dual POVs, there’s plenty of backstory, and steady developments that the overall story neither felt rushed through or dragged out. You can expect a lively college atmosphere, plenty of hot ~~riders~~ racers, suspenseful tournaments, entertaining parties, hilarious inner monologues, and drool-worthy hook-ups. I really, REAAAALLY recommend it.

RATING: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Thank you Rebecca Jenshak and Valentine PR for the opportunity to read an advance copy! 💗

🔔 Interested in reading Burnout? Grab your copy here: Universal Link

•••

More Sports Romance by Rebecca Jenshak

💐 The Campus Wallflowers

Tutoring The Player by Rebecca Jenshak

Hating The Player by Rebecca Jenshak

Scoring The Player by Rebecca Jenshak

Tempting The Player by Rebecca Jenshak

❄ Holiday Spin-Off Novellas

Snowed In With The Player by Rebecca Jenshak

Sneaking Around With The Player by Rebecca Jenshak

•••

Happy reading, guys! Catch you in my next one!

Nine Month Contract by Amy Daws

Adult Romance, ARC Review, Book Review, Book Reviews, Contemporary, Romance, Romantic Comedy Fiction

⚠ This review contains a minor teaser!

booksofthemuggleborn_ninemonthcontract — Original post from my IG @booksofthemuggleborn

•••

• BLURB •

Help Wanted: Grumpy Mountain Man seeks baby momma. Job is an incubator position only. Surrogate must be impervious to grunting in the form of communication and nosey brotherly neighbors. Rustic mountain range housing available upon request.

I wanted to pummel my irritating brothers when they posted their own version of a wanted ad to help me with my life.

But I can’t fault the results once the right woman lands on my lap.

Becoming a single father is not a decision I made lightly. In fact, it’s the biggest decision of my entire life.

Which is why when I interview Trista, I know she’s perfect.

She’s wild, she’s opinionated, she wears cowboy boots. Even my pet goat loves her…

She’s the exact type of person I was holding out for.

And to my great horror, I realize on our first night of attempting this baby making dance…when the lights are low, the cheap wine is flowing, and the home insemination supplies are laid out on the kitchen counter…

I want to do a lot more than just make her my surrogate.

I want to make her mine.

•••

• MY REVIEW •

“We play by different rules on the mountain.”

Oh man… 👏 Daws. 👏 Can. 👏 Write!

Whether she releases books back to back or takes long breaks in-between releases, either way they’re all of the highest quality.

This first book in her all-new series is pure page-turning magic. There are so many appealing elements included that all worked well together. From the quirky yet lovable familial dynamics, to the breathtaking secluded backdrop, to the ultimate premise that kicked off Wyatt’s and Trista’s story.

You can’t flip open a new page without encountering a character you won’t end up loving. The Fletcher brothers alone are a formidable crew; each one having their own distinct traits that had me anticipating their stories next. The sibling relationships present is not only genuine but oh-so relatable—from the playful banter, to the occasional disagreements, to their unquestionable love and support. They’re a mixed bag but when push comes to shove, they’re a united front that I couldn’t help but admire.

I immediately connected with the issues these characters go through. I especially related with the insecurities, and even with Trista’s complex upbringing so easily that I found myself resonating with her character in a lot of ways. I understood her hesitancy concerning certain situations and empathised with her wants and needs for a self-sustaining life. But in saying that, I also wasn’t in agreement with some of her actions in this book. Trista eventually owning up to her behaviour had me realising quickly after that this was intentionally written of her character, and made her more tangible for me. She’s a well thought-out, well-developed character.

Daws has a sweet way of creating perfectly imperfect characters and shines a light on sensitive, somewhat taboo subject matters without it feeling overly heavy or sombre. I have never come across a romance book where surrogacy is the main focal point. Even more so, where it’s a single man choosing this path. Wyatt and Trista’s surrogacy journey demonstrated certain risks, demands, and overall commitment. It displayed the ups and downs— the emotional, physical, and mental rollercoaster they both go through whilst at the same time finding balance in their complicated developing relationship.

Some readers may find this story triggering, as it does include delicate issues, such as the topic of surrogacy and all that it can entail. It broaches on death and the effects it can have on individuals and families. It also discusses neglectful parenting and childhood trauma (off-page). This book is intended for readers of age.

It has well-paced storytelling, and I enjoyed the multiple POVs. It created a ton of world-building and layers within the story through various perspectives. It already has great bones for the rest of the series and what we can expect to see in the next book.

Whilst I connected with Trista’s character, Wyatt is in his own league. I couldn’t fault the man. There’s basis for his possessive, obsessive tendencies that was offset by his protectiveness, care, and ability to make Trista feel loved and supported that just about turned me all jelloid. 🙈😍 He is quintessentially THE perfect mountain man baby daddy!

I do have to point out that there’s a particular scene involving chickens that hit close to home all too well for me because I’ve experienced it firsthand myself. Daws has hit the nail on the head with how authentic, how realistic, and relatable the emotions these characters go through.

This is not your stereotypical fast-paced mountain man romance read where it involves insta-love and a heroine isolated on a mountain with an alphahole MMC. If you love in-depth storylines, with found-family and friendships amongst a strong cast of characters, and a well-written romance between third-dimensional MCs, then this book is a must-read. It’s hefty and has a good balance of light and shade. There’s plenty of comic relief, some of which were totally unexpected and giggle-inducing.

I’m obsessed with the references used, the mere mention of the classic musical; Seven Brides for Seven Brothers had me in a giddy mood, and Daws paying homage to her own dad made this story all the more touching and heartfelt. It’s evident a lot of her heart and soul and life experiences are incorporated into this narrative.

It’s uplifting and at times eyebrow-raising educational. It’s sexy, yet weirdly wholesome at the same time. It left me filled with happy contentment like I’ve been enveloped in a big bear hug, and the bonus epilogue was an amazing peek into Wyatt and Trista’s lives years after their initial “nine month contract.” This is a vivid, fictional escapism at its best that will evoke emotions out of romance readers. In all honesty, all of Daws’ books are made for screen and this one is no different.

Bring on book two… and three… and four! I’m excited for more of the Fletchers, their swoony charm, and that jaw-dropping mountain views of theirs.

RATING: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Thank you Amy Daws for the opportunity to read an advance copy! 💙

🔔 Interested in reading Nine Month Contract? Grab your copy here: Universal Link

•••

More books by Amy Daws!

Contemporary Sports Romance

Blindsided by Amy Daws

Replay by Amy Daws

Sweeper by Amy Daws

Contemporary Rom-Coms

One Moment Please by Amy Daws

Last On The List by Amy Daws

•••

Happy reading, guys! Catch you in my next one!

The Heroes We Break by Natasha Knight

Adult Romance, ARC Review, Book Review, Book Reviews, Contemporary, Dark Reads, Dark Romance, Romance, Suspense

⚠ This review contains a minor teaser!

booksofthemuggleborn_theheroeswebreak — Original post from my IG @booksofthemuggleborn

•••

• BLURB •

She isn’t supposed to be mine.

I am the illegitimate son. Unwanted. Hated. The jealous, possessive villain who once wore the mask of a hero.

Ophelia Hart is the girl next door.

Growing up, I rescued her countless times from my idiot half-brother.

Now, the rivalry between him and me has changed. The stakes are higher. And Ophelia is in danger.

But I’ll be damned if I let him touch her.

She no longer thinks me the hero of her story, though.

She’ll fight me.

I’ll fight for her.

But there comes a time in every man’s life where he must take what he wants.

That time is now.

Because there is no way in hell I will let my half-brother have her.

•••

• MY REVIEW •

“Silas Cruz. The villain I want to hate but am drawn to like a moth to the flame.”

Ooh, more please! 😍 I have no shame in admitting I devoured this first part too quickly, and now the proverbial book hangover has followed. But in my defence, this book is fast-paced and relatively shorter in length.

The only thing that’s keeping me mentally and emotionally in-check is knowing there won’t be a long wait for the second half of this duet.

This had all of my favourite elements combined in a romance book— darkness, intrigue, suspense, and red-hot desire. It may have been a quick read but it packed a punch. It was constantly developing, providing backstory between its characters, and added layers within the story through past and present storytelling. The world-building is visually captivating from its underlying shady environment, to the contrasting familial and social standing, to the intricate relationships formed within. It held my attention from start to finish, and left me reeling for answers… and in all honesty, vengeance.

It’s about a hero who had been tormented and brutalized into his breaking point, and I for one, am backing his plotting and planning in ensuring retribution is meted out to those who’ve done him wrong.

Knight effortlessly made me connect with these characters. They immediately made their impressions, and from then on, there was a clear divide between the good and bad. In brief, it’s a dark romance consisting of a damsel in distress, a hero on a mission, and villains standing way. With the added forbidden romance and surprising plot twists, it’s a highly exceptional read.

Silas Cruz is very much the star of this twisted show. You’ll see his beginnings; the influences whom are responsible for the hardened transformation of his character in the present day.

This story does contain sensitive subject matters that may be triggering for some readers. It includes graphic family and domestic violence, taunting, manipulation/ blackmail, kidnapping, drugging, affairs, sexual assault, and abuse. It’s intended for readers 18+ only.

The premise had me curious, and the writing itself was well-executed. Despite the fast progression, the story didn’t feel rushed through nor were details skimmed over. As this is the first book in the duet, this first half of the story introduces the characters, sets up the dynamics, and ultimately built up the anticipation for what’s to come in the second half, and because of that, it concludes on a cliffhanger.

Knight has been an auto-read author for me for a few years now, and it’s not likely to change either. I have loved all of the books I’ve read of hers as they’re all deliciously dark romantic suspense reads, with the majority set in a criminal underworld. But this one stands out a little differently. It’s a romance story that gradually bares its darkness and characters show their true colours. It’s a refreshing change of pace as it’s a “lighter” dark romance, per se.

The antagonists in this story play their roles really well. I’m usually one for villains, but there are the special few who hold no redeemable qualities and are just plain repulsive. Be prepared to meet a few here.

I can’t wait to read the next book and pick up where this one left off. There are so many developments up in the air, and I’m desperately wanting to see more interactions between Silas and Ophelia, as there were nowhere near enough in this first half.

It’s addictively thought-provoking, and I enjoyed it immensely. With an ongoing strategic game at play, there are plenty of thrills and spills, and a dash of lust and longing, making it a real page-turner.

RATING: ⭐⭐⭐⭐½

Thank you Natasha Knight and Candi Kane PR for the opportunity to read an advance copy! 💙

🔔 Interested in reading The Heroes We Break? Grab your copy here: Universal Link

•••

More Dark Romance by Natasha Knight

Requiem Of The Soul by Natasha Knight & A. Zavarelli

Reparation Of Sin by Natasha Knight & A. Zavarelli

Resurrection Of The Heart by Natasha Knight & A. Zavarelli

Stolen: Dante’s Vow by Natasha Knight

Devil’s Pawn by Natasha Knight

Devil’s Redemption by Natasha Knight

His Rule by Natasha Knight & A. Zavarelli

Her Rebellion by Natasha Knight & A. Zavarelli

Their Reign by Natasha Knight & A. Zavarelli

Ruined Kingdom by Natasha Knight

Broken Queen by Natasha Knight

Forgive Me My Sins by Natasha Knight

Deliver Me From Evil by Natasha Knight

The Tithing by Natasha Knight & A. Zavarelli

The Penitent by Natasha Knight & A. Zavarelli

•••

Happy reading, guys! Catch you in my next one!

Reign Of A Billionaire by Eva Winners

Adult Romance, ARC Review, Book Review, Book Reviews, Contemporary, Dark Reads, Dark Romance, Mafia Romance, Romance, Suspense

⚠ This review contains a minor teaser!

booksofthemuggleborn_reignofabillionaire — Original post from my IG @booksofthemuggleborn

•••

• BLURB •

Kingston Ashford.

An enigma.

The ghost.

His skills are unparalleled. His motives clear. His lethality unquestionable. His only purpose is to obliterate the kingdom that had stolen more than his innocence from him. Until he crosses paths with a ghost from his past and he’s drawn into the woman’s web.

Liana Volkov. An ice princess with murderous plans. The unstable killer with the face of an angel.

Something big is happening in the belly of the underworld. Realities are shattered. A deadly game is played, tearing apart the kingdom from within the belly of the beast. But that’s just the tip of the iceberg.

The line between enemies and allies is blurred. Mysteries unravel. Histories clash. Desires consume. Nothing is as it seems.

A new reign is born.

•••

• MY REVIEW •

“I’m yours until I draw my last breath.”

😲 Give me a minute to pick my jaw up off the floor. Because… damn.

It’s a masterful piece of writing. It has striking world-building, intricate chain of events, and was so emotionally propelled that it effortlessly transported me into Kingston’s and Liana’s harsh world. With each page I was pulled further and further into an immersive, yet highly twisted labyrinth.

I’ve said this in my other book reviews for this series— Billionaire Kings is by far my favourite series by Winners, and after having read this newest addition, I can re-iterate it. I absolutely loved the tropes and plot twists included. Kingston’s and Liana’s story is uniquely theirs. It’s still a billionaire romance but includes mafia/ organised crime elements within. It’s darker, more grittier, and a lot bloodier than the previous books in the series. It contains sensitive subject matters that may be triggering for some readers. It delves in strong graphic violence, kidnapping, child abuse, torture, human trafficking, sexual abuse, and death. It’s not for the fainthearted, and is intended for readers 18+ only.

Kingston and Liana have bound themselves to one another. They have a deep, complex history, and throughout a span of their lives, the connection that tethered them together never wavered. I devoured this book purely on the fact that I was wholly invested in seeing how things will unravel between them. If you enjoy dark romances filled with mystery and suspense, this book is not to be missed.

I’ve read countless romance books, plenty in the dark, mafia sub-genres. But I’ve only encountered a handful of “fierce” and “badass” heroines that have actually lived up to those descriptors. Liana, I can happily say fits the bill, and during my reading experience firmly held my attention.

Kingston (aka Ghost) is a complex character, and we finally get his full backstory. He’s screwy and broody, and not one to be messed with, but knowing the reasons behind his personality, it’s not hard to love and respect him for it.

These MCs have been to hell and back, and to hell again. The story was in-depth, felt relatively hefty, and was constantly progressing. The storytelling is told between a few different POVs, and goes back and forth from past to present through flashbacks, which could easily disrupt the flow, but I didn’t get any of that reading this one. It was well-paced and kept a satisfying build-up of anticipation.

It’s full of secrecy. The premise barely skimmed the surface of Kingston’s and Liana’s story. It’s a book that really needs to be experienced by the reader first-hand. Without spoilers or a full list of tropes revealed. Once you start, you’ll quickly realise where the direction of the story is heading. I’m not sure if the main “plot twist” was meant to be unpredictable (as there were signs everywhere), but I thought it was obvious nonetheless. However, it didn’t take away from the thrill of seeing developments unfold.

I recommend readers be up-to-date with Winners’ multiverse of books as they all interconnect through the characters. With this book being on the darker side, a lot of the time the backdrop is set within the underworld. Secondary characters involved in the mafia/organised crime play pivotal roles, and Kingston and Liana are in the heart of it alongside them. It can be read as a standalone, but in my opinion, the importance of certain characters and relationships will not necessarily have the same impact unless you’ve read Winners’ other books— specifically the previous books in the Billionaire Kings, as well as the Belles & Mobsters series.

The secondary characters not only amped up the story, but certain characters had me excited to read upcoming books. Winners is always adding teasers of confirmed future couples (or possible pairings), and this one introduced a couple of new characters that have me mentally keeping tabs on now.

I couldn’t fault this book. I loved it from start to finish. Yes, if I had to nit-pick there were a couple of questionable actions made by these characters but blips in the grand scheme of things. Kingston and Liana are an unbelievable pairing. They’re freaking formidable! I love that their journey was a Herculean feat. That from darkness there was light. I loved that despite the brokenness, they came out as survivors, fighters; both of whom exuded strength. That they never lost the ability to love either. If there was ever a couple who deserved a HEA, it was these two. Hell, it was a long time coming!

✔ Billionaire Romance

✔ Dark Romance

✔ Enemies to Allies to Lovers

✔ Slow Burn

✔ Mafia/ Organised Crime

✔ Suspense

Five stars all-around. Five stars for storytelling. Five stars for flow. Five stars for character growth. Five stars for the sizzling scenes. Five stars for the action and suspense. Five stars for the well-executed tropes and elements. You get the gist. 👌 It’s a page-turner.

RATING: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Thank you Eva Winners and Megan Pagnano-Gatanis (The Next Step PR) for the opportunity to read an advance copy! 💚

🔔 Interested in reading Reign Of A Billionaire? Universal Link

•••

More books by Eva Winners

👑 Billionaire Kings

Contract Of A Billionaire by Eva Winners

Misdeeds Of A Billionaire by Eva Winners

Secrets Of A Billionaire by Eva Winners

•••

🌹 Belles & Mobsters

Belles & Mobsters: Sasha by Eva Winners

Belles & Mobsters: Luca by Eva Winners

•••

💀 Kingpins Of The Syndicate

Corrupted Pleasure by Eva Winners

Villainous Kingpin by Eva Winners

Devious Kingpin by Eva Winners

•••

🥀 Thorns Of Omertà

Thorns Of Omertà Duet by Eva Winners

Thorns Of Death by Eva Winners

Thorns Of Silence by Eva Winners

•••

✨ Stolen Empire Trilogy

Bitter Prince by Eva Winners

Unforgiving Queen by Eva Winners

Wrathful King by Eva Winners

•••

Happy reading, guys! Catch you in my next one!

The Wallflower by J.L. Beck

Adult Romance, ARC Review, Book Review, Book Reviews, Contemporary, New Adult Fiction, Romance, Suspense

⚠ This review contains a minor teaser!

•••

• BLURB •

She needs me, because she needs money.

I don’t need her. Just her complete submission…

Maybell Jacobs is the Wallflower: quiet, shy, socially awkward and hell-bent on hiding even from herself, that is until a chance encounter takes place between us.

Instantly she hates me and for good reason. I’m a walking-red-flag. Filthy rich jock, short tempered, and violent.

I can have anyone and anything I want.. except her.

Little does she know her disgust, anger, and hate for me fuels my obsession to own her, completely in every single way.

Maybell resists, predictably… but her fight only makes her more desirable and I have plans that will lead her right into my lap and never want to leave.

When she joins the sinful tradition put on by the elite of the town, the Hunt, I’m shocked. The pretty little thing has no idea how much danger she’s in if she decides to become my prey.

Sweet, innocent, and fragile like a flower. I’ll have to be careful or risk breaking her.

Because I’m the ultimate predator and when I play there are no rules.

I don’t chase. I capture.

And I like to own my bait.

(Tropes include: secret society, college, touch her and die, CNC & chasing bait fantasy).

•••

• MY REVIEW •

“He only knows how to destroy, and there’s only so much heartbreak I can take before I shatter.”

Okay Drew. Okay Bel. You’ve captured my undivided attention. Their book was one hell of a page-turning savage! It’s smut romance at its best.

I went into it not really knowing its premise other than it was an opposites-attract, dark contemporary romance set within a college backdrop. I low-key had been in the lookout for my next college romance read and after seeing the cover(s) around social media, I was oohing and ahhing with interest. Particular tropes and triggers hadn’t fully registered until I (figuratively) cracked open the (e)book.

Some of the main tropes and thought-provoking developments in this book were not something I openly look for in my romance reads, and for the most part I typically stay away from them. But in this particular case, it worked perfectly, and a lot of that had to do with how well-written, how thought-out, and how vivid it all was.

It’s not going to suit everyone’s tastes, but if the premise intrigues you in the slightest, I recommend giving it a try. I’m so glad I did because it ended up becoming one of my favourite reads this year. It’s effortless to follow and the characters immediately grab your attention.

Just take caution as it includes sensitive subject matters such as, mental and emotional abuse, blackmail, graphic domestic violence, child abuse, drugging, and touches on dealing with life-threatening illnesses. There’s also strong sexual content (including CNC) throughout. It’s intended for readers 18+ only.

I love my dark romance reads, and this one was gripping from start to finish. It’s well-paced storytelling filled with pearl-clutching developments, thrills and spills, and what felt like days on end of glorious smut! To put it simply, it’s unputdownable. I’m still reeling from the events and how this book concluded that I’ve been going back and rereading my favourite parts over and over again just to tie me over until the next book.

I was introduced to Beck through her mafia romance books, but after having read this one, I think I may need to check out her backlist of contemporary romances as well.

There’s a small cast of characters but each one has made quite an impression. I’m hoping Drew’s friends will also get books of their own because they seem just as engaging and secretive as Drew that I’m curious to know more about them. Whist there are some juicy twists and turns, I must admit there were two main plot twists that I predicted fairly early on. But make no mistakes, in no way did it take away from how addictive a read this book was. If anything, it’s made me more amped up than ever for how things could possibly evolve in the following book.

There are different dynamics present, but they are in some ways relatable, from the intense friendships, to the familial relationships. This book is an emotional rollercoaster. There’s a ton of drama and angst, but you can’t help but get invested in these characters and be fully immersed in their twisted world.

I was initially hesitant about the CNC, but I quickly discovered it was a relatively mid-level element and not at all scandalous, but it played a vital role in kicking off Drew and Bel’s relationship. Their story is complex, chaotic, and it constantly felt like one big mental whiplash. I don’t know how any of it made sense or why it worked, but the CNC alongside the bullying element was the foundation for their narrative, and it was a strong introduction. Give this one a miss if the CNC (consensual/non-consensual) theme is a hard no for you, though.

The only thing I wasn’t big on was although I found both Drew and Bel appealing characters overall, I couldn’t agree or even understand some of their actions, or should I say lack thereof. Even thinking about it now, I’m questioning their decisions. I’m hoping answers will eventually shed some light.

Fans of romance reads involving secret societies and/or high societies will love the setting. It’s very opposite-sides-of-the-tracks, broaching on social standing, the highs and lows, and the power and influence that demonstrate Drew and Bel’s contrasting lives. Their push-and-pull relationship was half frustrating, half giddy-inducing.

You’ve been warned. But IT IS a must-read!

RATING: ⭐⭐⭐⭐½

Thank you J.L. Beck and Candi Kane PR for the opportunity to read a ARC copy in preparation for The Wildflower! 💗

🔔 Interested in reading The Wallflower? Grab your copy here: Amazon US | Amazon UK | Amazon CA | Amazon AU

•••

🌹 More books by J.L. Beck

Stolen Bride by J.L. Beck & C. Hallman

Savage Beginnings by J.L. Beck & C. Hallman

Violent Beginnings by J.L. Beck & C. Hallman

Fragile Wings by J.L. Beck & C. Hallman

•••

Happy reading, guys! Catch you in my next one!

Hunted By A Shadow by Michelle Heard

Adult Romance, ARC Review, Book Review, Book Reviews, Contemporary, Dark Reads, Dark Romance, Mafia Romance, Romance, Suspense

⚠ This review contains a minor teaser!

booksofthemuggleborn_huntedbyashadow — Original post from my IG @booksofthemuggleborn

•••

• BLURB •

When I finally get a life-saving kidney transplant, I think the worst is behind me.

Boy, am I wrong.

I start feeling eyes on me wherever I go.
I’m being watched. Stalked. Hunted.
It’s downright scary.

Then the hunter steps out of the shadows, and my life implodes. I’m taken by Renzo Torrisi, a dangerous and unforgiving man.

Turns out the kidney I received belonged to one of his men and I have to repay the debt. Only the terms are unclear, and the rules change on a whim. Held prisoner in his penthouse, I have to serve the ruthless mafia boss like the god he is.

Whether I’ll survive being Renzo’s captive is up for debate, though.

STANDALONE: A Mafia Romance full-length novel.

WARNING: 18+ only. Please read responsibly. THIS NOVEL CONTAINS TRIGGERING CONTENT.

•••

• MY REVIEW •

“The things we do for love.”

Nerve-racking. Hair-raising. Nail-biting. A totally mind-fuck. It’s a trip to purgatory and back, and there is nothing that can prepare you for what Renzo has in store.

Heard has written a thought-provoking dark mafia romance that swallows you whole and totally screws with your psyche. Morality is thrown right out. It was twisted, utterly gruesome, heart-shatteringly messed-up, yet I loved every single word of it.

It’s not for the faint-hearted. The premise lures you in, but make no mistakes readers will be in for a gasp-inducing story. I wasn’t at all expecting it, hadn’t even considered it, and by the time I had the slightest inkling the narrative was headed down a blackhole, stopping myself from reading further was no longer an option.

It’s one of those remarkable stories where you don’t want to know what happens, yet you do. Badly.

Vivid world-building full of harsh realities, fears, and violence. It contains sensitive subject matters that readers may find disturbing and/or triggering. It deals with detailed, graphic violence, kidnapping, and death. It’s intended for readers 18+ only. I urge fellow readers to read responsibly.

It’s a captor/captive storyline where the circumstance is something I’ve never encountered before in previous dark romance reads. In comparison to Heard’s other mafia romances, it definitely has a darker theme and overall atmosphere.

Despite the emotional roller-coaster Skylar and Renzo go through and the sensitivity surrounding the situation they find themselves in, it was nevertheless an effortless, albeit melancholic piece of writing to follow. It’s a weighty, beautifully written story filled with such love. Most of the storytelling is enveloped in a gloomy, depressing backdrop, but there are moments of light here and there to inject some hope in these characters lives.

I can’t imagine stepping into and experiencing life through Skylar’s eyes first hand. She’s put through the wringer, and because of that I couldn’t even fully question her mental state. But her innocence, her survival instincts, and her understanding nature is what makes her an intriguing heroine I was invested in seeing come through to the other side.

Renzo is a flawed and vengeful Reaper of a mafia boss. He exudes power, and death, and pain. He is a complex character to the core, and had fast become one of my favourite morally grey heroes. What I love most about him is he has the biggest heart.

Not only has Heard created an entirely new mafia world that’s highly charged and extremely exciting, but has introduced a new set of mobsters whom are more in-depth than ever. Each mafia boss has made quite an impression, and I can’t wait to read the rest of the series. Their strong brotherly dynamics is always a highlight to see in each book. They bring about unity, a solid support system, and banter that can only come from a caring, tight-knit history. Besides the romantic developments, the interactions amongst these men are always, always an element to look forward to.

This story is well-paced and told from dual POVs. There is a good amount of character growth and developments between Skylar and Renzo that makes their relationship feel genuine. It constantly keeps you on your toes with the amount of plot twist after plot twist. Whilst the first two books in the series ended a little too abruptly for my liking, this one felt more substantial in length.

All in all, I couldn’t fault it. I will be coming back to their story time and time again. All the heartbreak and brutality are well worth getting through to witness their HEA. It left me in complete happy contentment. Although I like to think of it as more of their beginning, their book has one of my favourite “endings” from the series. Skylar and Renzo’s story could not have concluded any better.

RATING: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Thank you Michelle Heard for the opportunity to read an advance copy! 💗

🔔 Interested in reading Hunted By A Shadow? Grab your copy here: Amazon US | Amazon UK | Amazon CA | Amazon AU

•••

Kings Of Mafia

Original post from my IG @booksofthemuggleborn

Book One: Tempted By The Devil by Michelle Heard

Book Two: Craving Danger by Michelle Heard

•••

More books by Michelle Heard

⛪ The Saints

Mafia Romance Series

Book 1–4: The Saints Series by Michelle Heard

Book Five: Tears Of Salvation by Michelle Heard

💀 The Sinners

Mafia Romance (Second Generation Spin-Off) Series

Book One: Taken By A Sinner by Michelle Heard

Book Two: Owned By A Sinner by Michelle Heard

Book Three: Stolen By A Sinner by Michelle Heard

Book Four: Chosen By A Sinner by Michelle Heard

Book Five: Captured By A Sinner by Michelle Heard

👑 Corrupted Royals

Mafia Romance (New Generation) Series

Book One: Destroy Me by Michelle Heard

Book Two: Control Me by Michelle Heard

Book Three: Brutalize Me by Michelle Heard

Book Four: Restrain Me by Michelle Heard

Book Five: Possess Me by Michelle Heard

🥀 Cruelest Oblivion Duet

New Adult Dystopian Romance

Book One: Cruelest Oblivion by M. A. Heard

Book Two: Sweetest Awareness by M. A. Heard

💞 Standalone Romance

Dark Romantic Suspense

Lifeline by Michelle Heard

Contemporary Billionaire Romance

Unforgettable by Tayla Louise & Michelle Heard

•••

Happy reading, guys! Catch you in my next one!

Sins Of The Father: TJ by Nicole James

Adult Romance, ARC Review, Book Review, Book Reviews, Contemporary, Dark Romance, MC Romance, New Adult Fiction, Romance, Suspense

⚠ This review contains a minor teaser!

booksofthemuggleborn_sinsofthefathertj — Original post from my IG @booksofthemuggleborn

•••

• BLURB •

TJ—

The beautiful tattoo artist told me to leave her alone after what I thought was an amazing night together.

Maybe she was just trying to get her bad boy fill.

Wouldn’t be the first time a woman threw herself at me because I was a member of the Evil Dead MC, the baddest motorcycle club in California.

Still, I can’t get her out of mind. I need answers, but what I find has my blood running cold.

Gigi—

The gorgeous biker crushed my heart when he left without a word.

So when he shows up as my knight in shining armor to rescue me from my abuser, I don’t trust him.

I don’t want to owe him anything, but he’s the only one who can protect me from the danger I’ve found myself in.

When I find out I’m also carrying his baby, I have to decide if I can trust him with the truth and with my heart.

•••

• MY REVIEW •

“He’s my knight. He’s my everything.”

Three for three! 🙌 This series gets better and better as more couples join the ranks. I thought Melissa and Billy had one hell of a story, but Gigi and TJ just elevated the entire EDMC second gen! I think, like many others who love the Evil Dead MC initially guessed (and possibly even hoped) that TJ would end up with one of the club’s princesses, but that notion quickly fizzled out for me and I perked up at the idea of Gigi—especially after having discovered she’s the daughter of Jameson, from the Brothers Ink Tattoo series. It was exciting seeing the crossover, and seeing the O’Rourke brothers again just brought a sense of nostalgia.

I wished this book was longer, as it was such a page-turner. I loved the instant attraction and chemistry between Gigi and TJ, but appreciate that it wasn’t such a straight road to their HEA either.

It has some cool MC elements, but it’s definitely more romance focused (which, I don’t mind in the least). Having read quite a few of James’ books over the years—some from different sub-genres, I can tell you now the writing’s always been appealing, and this story’s premise absolutely delivered. It’s told from multiple POVs, yet effortless to follow nonetheless.

There are a few twists and turns— some predictable, some I hadn’t expected, but at the end of the day, it was a romance read I was thoroughly immersed in. I recommend reading EDMC’s Outlaw and Brothers Ink Tattoo’s Jameson, if you haven’t already. It’s not essential but it would be one hell of an in-depth world-building if you do. Not only will you discover the backstories of Gigi’s parents and TJ’s parents, but you’ll also get an insight into the worlds they both grew up in. Although they have a contrasting upbringing, Gigi and TJ have a genuine, organic dynamic between them that I couldn’t get enough of seeing. Their relationship was on the side of the insta-love romance trope with how fast things developed between them, but I honestly didn’t care as they were such likable characters.

I quickly realised each couple’s HEA in this series are more so the beginning of their lives together rather than the end, which I’m more than okay with. It leaves room for imagination, or even expansion if James ever wanted to go back to a couple’s journey.

It’s satisfyingly action-packed with a little bit of suspenseful thrown in. But also tons of spicy sexual content that’ll have your face heating up as you read them. 🤭

I adore the group dynamics amongst the MC. Whenever I read one of James’ MC romances, I’m always grinning at the genuine friendships and brotherhood amongst the cast of characters. The loyalty, the camaraderie, and the banter are ever-present. It totally lightens up the atmosphere.

Although it’s an altogether light-hearted MC romance, it does contain sensitive subject matters than may be triggering or disturbing for some readers. In contains strong violence, kidnapping/ hostage situations, and abuse. It’s intended for readers 18+ only.

All in all, I was left in happy contentment. I’m loving this second gen series, and it’s been amazing seeing the world expand with new couples. It also was a highlight seeing the original MC brothers (albeit older) make an appearance. It can easily be read in one sitting, and will leave you amped up with anticipation for the next one. I’m already counting down the days.

If you like heroic bad-boy bikers, spunky, dreamy heroines, and red-hot hook-ups wrapped up in all kinds of trouble, then add this one to your TBR.