Sins Of The Father: TJ by Nicole James

⚠ This review contains a minor teaser!

Original post from my IG @booksofthemuggleborn

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• 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 •

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“He’s my knight. He’s my everything.”

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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.

RATING: ⭐⭐⭐⭐½

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

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

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💀 More EDMC: Sins Of The Father

Original post from my IG @booksofthemuggleborn

Original post from my IG @booksofthemuggleborn

Sins Of The Father: Marcus by Nicole James

Sins Of The Father: Billy by Nicole James

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More MC Romance by Nicole James

Start from the beginning: The Evil Dead MC!

Evil Dead MC Series 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

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•••

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

French Quarter Christmas by Nicole James

⚠ This review contains a minor teaser!

Original post from my IG @booksofthemuggleborn

•••

• BLURB •

When a biker needs a fake girlfriend to bring home for the holidays, his Club President plays Santa and hires Las Vegas’ most expensive escort for the job.

It’s all fun and games until his feelings stop being fake and start getting real. Is this just another job for her or does she feel it too?

Come along for a festive trip to New Orleans for Christmas done the Creole way.

•••

• MY REVIEW •

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“You’re the best thing that’s ever happened to me.”

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Fun, flirty, and one helluva mood-boosting read! James needs to write more romance novellas because they are just as amazing as her full-length novels.

This story is set within her world of the Evil Dead MC, but it’s MC-light. I think it’s a nice change of pace getting to see one of the brothers’ lives outside of their motorcycle club being in the forefront.

If you like the fake-dating romance trope set in a holiday themed narrative, I highly recommend you give this one a read. It may be a novella, but it’s punchy. I love the vivid backdrop of New Orleans and getting to see through two difference pairs of eyes— from New Orleans native; Lobo and sightseer Hope. And who doesn’t enjoy a little holiday romance?

With the fast-pacing and constant developments, Lobo and Hope’s relationship technically evolved rather quickly, but with their close proximity and time spent getting to know one another, as you’re reading, it didn’t necessarily come across as abrupt.

The familial dynamics exhibited is your stereotypical hectic yet lively atmosphere whenever a gathering is in place. Whilst it has an overall light-hearted contemporary setting, I liked that there was still a little bit of suspense thrown in as well. Regardless of the holiday theme, it wouldn’t be one of James’ MC romances without bikers making an appearance, adding some brotherly banter and a wreaking little MC havoc. 😉

I’m always left smiling after seeing another one of James’ bikers get their HEA, and Lobo with his selfless personality certainly deserved one of his own. Hope is a positive, lovable heroine that takes things in stride. She’s a modern-day Cinderella who was so easy to root for. It may have started off as a night of no-strings fun between the two but their chemistry was palpable and their strengthening relationship felt truly genuine.

The bonus epilogue was a sweet addition, but I do hope we get to see more of Lobo and Hope in future books. I’m curious to learn where their lives are at years down the track.

I can read holiday romances anytime of the year, and this little novella was spice and all things nice! One charming biker. One high-end escort. One crackling night that unexpectedly paved the way to their forever.

RATING: ⭐⭐⭐⭐½

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

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

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More MC Romance by Nicole James

Start from the beginning: The Evil Dead MC!

Evil Dead MC Series 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

Evil Dead MC Second Generation

Sins Of The Father: Marcus by Nicole James

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•••

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

Unforgettable by Tayla Louise & Michelle Heard

⚠ This review contains a minor teaser!

Original post from my IG @booksofthemuggleborn

•••

• BLURB •

Life has taught me I’m forgettable, unless someone needs something from me. While things are going great, people forget I exist, but the second hell breaks loose, my number is the one they call.

It sucks.

Just once, I’d like to be a priority in someone’s life. I’d like to be taken into consideration. I want my voice to be heard.

But that’s never going to happen.

I’m the forgettable one. Always have been. Always will be.

Wanting to feel like I’m a priority for one night, I take matters into my own hands and book a date through The Perfect Gentleman’s service. I figure if I’m going to pay for the date, the guy will be forced to give me the attention I’ve always craved.

I’m not going to lie, I almost cancel the date a hundred times, but gathering my courage, I head to the restaurant to meet Mr. Perfect.

Mr. Perfect turns out to be PERFECT in the looks department. His hazel eyes are seductive and playful, luring me in like a moth to a flame, and the dominance radiating from him actually makes me feel safe.

Little do I know my entire life is about to be turned upside down.

•••

• MY REVIEW •

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“Thank you for seeing me.”

“Baby, since I laid eyes on you, you’re all I see.”

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I couldn’t put it down. I couldn’t put it down. 👏 I 👏 COULD NOT 👏 PUT IT 👏 DOWN!

Louise and Heard had me at the dedication alone. THAT DEDICATION!!

This book was far too easy to finish in one sitting. Within the first few chapters I already knew I resonated with Lillian in so many ways. From her introverted personality, feelings of inadequacy, and constantly being left out— it definitely set off a strong empathetic reaction out of me. Lillian in many ways is my spirit animal and I was wholly invested in her story.

For the fellow introvert, for those who have ever felt like they were never first choice and want to find a narrative that they could possibly relate to, read Unforgettable. Louise and Heard have created a heartfelt and at times heart-breaking story with genuine characters who experience harsh realities that, in my opinion, are not necessarily discussed openly in social circles or even within private settings.

I was gripped from start to finish. This exciting new author-collaboration is a smash hit! I hope Louise and Heard have many more books in-store. This is Louise’s debut novel and with how much I enjoyed it, she’s an author I’ll be keeping tabs on and eager to read more from.

This is a contemporary billionaire romance, that leans towards insta-love. Although some subplots weren’t as in-depth as I would’ve liked, developments didn’t feel overly rushed through either. It also has a bit of a fake-dating element in play for Lillian’s and Callan’s introduction.

Sadness, loneliness, and a sense of longing lingers throughout this story, however, a sweet balance of love and optimism through their support system eases the depressing parts of their story.

Both Lillian and Callan are likable MCs, but I have to point out, if you’re not a fan of heroes with control issues, then Callan might be to your liking. He has his reasons and I can sympathise, but it’s the only trait of his I wasn’t quite a fan of. There’s also Dom/sub tendencies between the two—which I normally avoid in my romance reads, but it’s fairly minor in this one.

Lillian and Callan both have personal issues they struggle with. It’s complex, and for the most part sensitive. It’s not triggering per se, but they’re thought-provoking and delicate. The story is very much character-driven and emotionally-charged. There are highs and lows. I found myself smiling one minute, only to get an overwhelming sense of melancholy the next. The differences between Lillian’s and Callan’s familial dynamics were a contrast to see. They’re two opposing examples of how much one’s relationship with their family and the overall familial environment can affect one’s mentality and outlook on certain things.

One-part unexpected romance. One-part solid friendships. One-part found-family.

Lillian and Callan complement each other’s personalities so well that it’s one of things that stood out to me. And it only went from strength to strength as their relationship evolved.

The premise had me intrigued, and the storytelling lived-up to it. There’s enough world-building to set the tone of the book, give you the gist of their lifestyles, and presents just as much character growth. You can expect to see old-fashion dating, cute internal dialogues, a lot of blushing, and mid-spicy romance.

It was a fast, standalone romance read with a well-deserved HEA that left me sighing in happiness.

Escort dating service. Billionaire romance. Opposites attract. Age-gap. If any of these elements/tropes call out to you, give this one a try.

RATING: ⭐⭐⭐⭐½

Thank you Tayla Louise and Michelle Heard for the opportunity to read an advance copy! 💙

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

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👔 More Billionaire Romance Reads

The Patron by Vivian Wood

The Reluctant Bride by Monica Murphy

To Have And To Hate by R.S. Grey

The Carrero Effect by L.T. Marshall

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•••

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

Leather & Lace by Geri Glenn

Original post from my IG @booksofthemuggleborn

•••

• BLURB •

Jennifer Smith doesn’t believe in romance. Which is funny, because she is one of the country’s most popular romance authors. She’s suffered enough heartache to know true romance is pure fiction.

Motorcycles Mobsters & Mayhem is a popular book event in Houston, and Jen’s been looking forward to it all year. After a global pandemic, a relentless cyber stalker, and yet another failed relationship, this trip is exactly what she needs. Friends, drinks, excited readers, and most of all, a week of peace and quiet before everyone arrives.

But peace and quiet prove to be as elusive as true love when one minor accident puts her on a collision course with him.

Cash “Rage” Hudson would rather be anywhere but Houston this weekend, but his little sister’s getting married, and he’s giving her away. As Vice President of the Satan’s Descendant’s MC, he’s always been the black sheep of his conservative family, and he knows this trip is going to be a nightmare.

Running into the feisty romance author is a welcome distraction, but she’s determined to keep him at arm’s length. Then her cyber stalker crashes the event, and Rage is the only thing standing between Jen and a crazed keyboard warrior on a mission to destroy her.

Motorcycles, Mobsters, and Mayhem author event proudly presents The Mayhem Makers Series.

These standalone novels are brought to you by several bestselling authors specializing in writing twisted chaos. You’ll get all the bikers, mobsters, and dark romance your heart can handle.

•••

• MY REVIEW •

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“Sometimes running is the only thing you can do to give yourself time to fight back. And believe me, we’re fighting back.”

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Glenn has written some of my all-time favourite gripping, swoon-worthy MC romance books. She surprised me with this sweeter MC romance storyline. It’s a bit of a contrast from her Kings of Korruption MC series where there was a lot more heaviness, grit, and suspense. Leather & Lace was a nice change of pace and had a more contemporary setting focusing on Jen’s world rather than Rage’s motorcycle club.

It’d be an amazing book for readers dipping their toes into MC romances. It gives insight into the hero’s dangerous world without delving too much into the details. It’s also quite light-hearted, sweet, and has a great romantic build-up between its main characters. Although Jen and Rage’s relationship technically developed fairly quickly and one I consider to be “instalove”, as you progress through the story you encounter some great moments of vulnerability and depth shared that you tend to forget the pair have only just met.

It’s steady-paced storytelling and told from dual POVs. It’s part of the Motorcycles, Mobsters & Mayhem author collaboration series but has been advised that it can be read as a standalone novel. In saying that, in my opinion, this story was left with an open-ended conclusion. There were plot points I wanted answers to and I would’ve loved an epilogue. I’m unsure if Glenn plans to continue Jen and Rage’s story in the future or if they make an appearance in her next book from this world, but I’d like to hold out hope that this won’t be the last time we see these two lovebirds.

One of the main things that stood out for me was how Glenn has written her characters, in particular, Rage. He’s probably one of the most sweetest, most caring bikers I’ve read (especially from Glenn’s MC romance books).

These characters are imperfect but it’s what makes them relatable and down-right likable! Both Jen and Rage have personal struggles and dilemma’s that their dealing with in their lives but they’ve become each other’s support system. It’s an overall uplifting storyline, with tons of positivity weaved throughout from the solid (and hilarious) friendships, to the encouraging book community Jen is a part of, and let’s not forget Rage’s band of brothers from his MC.

It’s a quirky storyline. If you ever wondered what it would be like when fiction meets real-life, then this one will be an entertaining treat for you. Jen is a romance author who specializes in writing MC romance books. She unexpectedly meets Rage, a real-life member of a motorcycle club. Vice President to boot, and when their two worlds clash, zingy interactions and constant sparks ignite.

I did find some parts a little repetitive at times trying to put emphasise into the trouble Jen has found herself in, but it’s still very much an enjoyable read. The secondary cast of characters are a fun addition. Jen and Rage are down to earth and have such genuine chemistry. There’s no drama and no angst in their relationship, which is refreshing. It’s an adult relationship that I easily got behind.

This book honestly left me smiling. Jen and Rage have a few hurdles to overcome but their story definitely left me rooting for their relationship to last a lifetime. I’m looking forward to reading Glenn’s next book in the MMM world!

RATING: ⭐⭐⭐⭐

Thank you Geri Glenn and Enticing Journey Book Promotions for the opportunity to read an advance copy! 🧡

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

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More Opposites-Attract MC Romance

Original post from my IG @booksofthemuggleborn

Original post from my IG @booksofthemuggleborn

📷 @booksofthemuggleborn

Kings Of Carnage MC: Saint by Nicole James

Turf Wars: Heart-On by Bella Jewel

Royal Bastards MC: Tempting The Biker by Glenna Maynard

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•••

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

Control Me by Michelle Heard

⚠ This review contains a minor teaser!

Original post from my IG @booksofthemuggleborn

•••

• BLURB •

I wanted to be a painter. But that’s just a dream because a mafia princess doesn’t get to choose her future.

Still, I never let it get me down. I always try to make the best of everything.

Until I’m forced to go for brutal training, and I meet Nikolai Vetrov.

Forbidden and way too attractive, the man turns out to be my worst nightmare incarnated.

He’s cold and ruthless, and I’m pretty sure there’s no heart to be found in his chest, unlike mine that won’t stop beating overtime at the mere sight of him.

Just because I flirted with him, he’s dead set on making my life as miserable as possible.

And as if the hell I’ve been thrown into isn’t enough, the worst thing possible happens to me. It strips me of my light and drops me into a darkness so suffocating there’s no way for me to escape.

There’s a lot I can endure and overcome, but the trauma and Nikolai Vetrov are two things I can’t handle. One of them is bound to be the end of me.

Unless a miracle happens, and let’s face it, I’m well past the point of believing in miracles.

•••

• MY REVIEW •

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“You’re too young and careless.”

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“You’re old and grumpy.”

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Un-friggin-putdownable! This second book in the Corrupted Royals series is another unbelievably addictive hit to the heart. I say this every time I finish reading one of Heard’s books but it’s because it’s true—she writes some of the most incredibly engrossing books that have equal measures of lightness and darkness to them that I’ve ever read.

I read this way too easily and in one sitting (and I’m normally a slow-ass reader). Abbie and Nikolai just grabbed hold of my attention and didn’t let go. If you like age-gap romances that have a little “daddy kink” play between its MCs, then there’s a good chance you might enjoy the dynamics between Abbie and Nikolai. This is under the mafia romance sub-genre, but their budding relationship for the most part is in the forefront of the storyline. It’s not as suspenseful as Heard’s previous mafia romances but it does still have dark elements. It contains violence, kidnapping, and sexual assault that some readers may find triggering/disturbing to read about. It’s intended for readers 18+ only.

But in saying that, there’s a lot of light-heartedness to counterbalance the grittiness of events that take place. Nikolai is an exceptional character. I’m a sucker for heroes who are protective as hell but who aren’t controlling, and Nikolai oozes strength, loyalty, and an all-around badass chivalrous alpha! I couldn’t have picked a more better suited hero for Abbie.

Abbie is quite a flirty fireball of a heroine, and such a contrast to Nikolai’s serious personality. Besides the big age difference, they’re opposites attract who are constantly in close proximity that essentially paves the way for their relationship to evolve. The sizzling banter and sexual tension had me in a fit of giggles and ultimately kept this mafia romance from turning too dark.

I was hooked on the premise and the storytelling well and truly delivered. It’s told from dual POVs that just about made me learn details and love these characters more. Other than the romantic elements, there’s a strong presence of friendship and familial bonds that not only added dimension and solid support systems for the MCs, but it added secondary storylines that had me eager to see what the rest of the series has in store.

Nikolai is the only character in this series that’s connected to characters from The Saints— Heard’s previous mafia series, and getting to see a crossover was the cherry on top of what was already a page-turning book!

I normally prefer more action, suspense, and strong mafia elements, but in this instance, it was a sweet change of pace seeing more of the romance side. Although I found the overall storytelling somewhat fast-paced, Abbie and Nikolai’s relationship had an organic development that made it all the more believable to see as it evolved.

This book elicited a range of emotions out of me, so be prepared for the unexpected. I laughed. I cried. I swooned big time! Heard’s writing has constantly blown me away with how effortless it is to follow and connect with. The characters are complex, yet lovable. The storylines contain a handful of tried and true romance tropes that work well together, and the world-building is vivid and feels like it’s full of endless possibilities.

Heard is two for two so far with this new mafia romance series. If you’ve read her previous book series’ you’ll be familiar with St. Monarch’s, the setting where the majority of this story takes place, but I’m loving the fact that this series delves deeper into this backdrop. I don’t think I’ve come across mafia romances that puts focus into seeing where these dangerous criminals get their in-depth skills and training from. It’s fascinating and it’s a mafia world I would never tire of. I love this book. I love Abbie and Nikolai. I love this series. And I would absolutely recommend it to avid fans of mafia romance books!

This is a standalone novel in an interconnected series, but I advise you read Destroy Me (book one) first as the characters and certain timeline of events that take place in this book correspond with that one, and also, it’ll make for a fuller reading experience.

RATING: ⭐⭐⭐⭐½

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

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

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👑 Corrupted Royals

Original post from my IG @booksofthemuggleborn

Book One: Destroy Me by Michelle Heard

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⛪ The Saints

Original post from my IG @booksofthemuggleborn

Original post from my IG @booksofthemuggleborn

Book 1–4: The Saints Series by Michelle Heard

Book Five: Tears Of Salvation by Michelle Heard

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💀 The Sinners

Original post from my IG @booksofthemuggleborn

Original post from my IG @booksofthemuggleborn

Original post from my IG @booksofthemuggleborn

Original post from my IG @booksofthemuggleborn

Original post from my IG @booksofthemuggleborn

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

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•••

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

Sneaking Around With The Player by Rebecca Jenshak

⚠ This review contains a minor teaser!

Original post from my IG @booksofthemuggleborn

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• BLURB •

It was supposed to be a quick conversation with a cute boy at the airport while I dodged my ex and his new girlfriend.
We weren’t supposed to trade numbers.
He wasn’t supposed to be a football player.
And I definitely wasn’t supposed to fall for him since he’s attending a college a thousand miles away.
I saw past his jersey. And he saw past my last name.
Now it’s semester break, and by some Christmas miracle, he’s going to be close. So close.
I want to meet him again, but there’s just one problem.
My older brother can’t, under any circumstances, find out I’m dating his rival.

•••

• MY REVIEW •

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“Talking to you always makes me feel better. You get me. It’s… nice.”

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I seriously could not stop smiling reading Stella and Beau’s story. Whereas Holly’s and Teddy’s little rom-dezvous 😉 in Snowed In With The Player was comforting in all its warm and fuzzy feels, Stella’s and Beau’s was utter giddiness in its unpredictability. I loved the instant chemistry from their meet-cute, all the flirtatiousness, to them just casually getting to know one other. It all felt very organic and genuine that was reminiscent of those romance stories I had read back in my teen years that were simple, but no less swoon-worthy.

It can easily be finished in one sitting, and definitely a perfect novella to get the holiday season underway! For the most part it’s a cheery contemporary romance but with a touch of suspense thrown in. I was invested from start to finish. Although it’s a short story, there was plenty of developments throughout the storyline and with Stella and Beau’s budding relationship. Secondary characters added further dimension and a contrast of dynamics within the group. I thought there a great mixture of elements from the romance, to the friendships, to the families, to the sports the MCs are associated with, all within a youthful, collegiate atmosphere.

You can’t read Sneaking Around With The Player without reading Snowed In With Player. Not only do the stories interconnect through certain events and timelines, but more so, Stella and Holly are twins that have such a strong relationship— not just as sisters, but also as best friends and it’s evident in both of their novellas. Besides the romantic element, I was pleasantly surprised by how much I found Stella’s close-knit family and their collective Christmas spirit so endearing to see. The epitomise the stereotypical loving family who enjoy spending time together and are a constant support system in each other’s lives.

The more books I read by Jenshak the more I get hooked on the fictional world she creates and the characters she brings to life. Her writing is constantly hearty, relatable, and so effortless to get into.

Jenshak has managed to pack a punch in such a short length narrative. It didn’t feel abrupt or lacking in developments whatsoever. It’s well-paced, with subplots simultaneously developing in the background. The dual POVs and inner monologues included added more personality to the MCs, and the vivid backdrop left me in complete wanderlust. Both Stella and Beau are lovable characters that you could easily relate to in one way or another.

Most of Stella’s and Beau’s relationship is developed through long-distance, which is a refreshing change of pace from the romance books I usually read that entails close/ forced proximity between its MCs. They navigate through genuine concerns of distance, conflicting schedules, physical contact, and limited time together, yet their determination is one of the reasons as to why I ended up so invested in seeing where their relationship would lead.

I adored reading this holiday romance and I highly recommend it. It was fun, light-hearted, and uplifting. 😊 If you’re a fan of the Campus Wallflowers series, certain characters from these holiday novellas are from the same world. Stella’s and Beau’s (and Holly’s and Teddy’s) stories are addictive reads and an exciting segue to the next book in the series (which is the twins’ older brother Felix’s story).

If you’re looking for a quick, feel-good romance read with a secret/ forbidden romance trope, add this one to your TBR. It has just the right amount of swoon and anticipation, with an ending that I can hope is only the beginning of their love story. It’d be great if Jenshak revisits these couples again in the future, but either way the Holiday With The Players novellas have HEAs that’ll leave you in happy contentment.

RATING: ⭐⭐⭐⭐½

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

🔔 Interested in reading Sneaking Around With The Player? Grab your copy here: Amazon  |  Apple Books  |  Nook  |  Kobo  |  Google Play

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❄ Holiday With The Players

Original post from my IG @booksofthemuggleborn

Book One: Snowed In With The Player by Rebecca Jenshak

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More books by Rebecca Jenshak!

Original post from my IG @booksofthemuggleborn

🌼 Campus Wallflowers

Book One: Tutoring The Player by Rebecca Jenshak

Book Two: Hating The Player by Rebecca Jenshak

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

Owned By A Sinner by Michelle Heard

⚠ This review contains a minor teaser!

Original post from my IG @booksofthemuggleborn

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• BLURB •

All I want to do is look after my dad, so when I land the job of a lifetime that will take care of our expenses, I grab at the chance with both hands. Little do I know, the impossible will be expected of me.

Slowly my smile fades, and my laughter dies until all that’s left is the broken puppet my personal hell created.

Liam Byrne, the head of the Irish mafia, returns from a business trip, and I expect my hellish nightmare to increase ten-fold.

Brutal, merciless, and dangerous, Liam is feared by all – even the monster intent on killing my soul.

Turns out I was wrong.

The instant Liam notices what’s happening, he takes me under his wing, and even though he’s all sharp edges and threatening growls, I feel safe with him.

Little by little, my sunshine creeps through the cracks, and my laughter returns.

But can one monster really defeat another, or am I just a girl dreaming about the impossible?

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• MY REVIEW •

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“Everything is different with you.”

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Yowza! Book two in the Sinners series was a siiiiizzling, butterflies-inducing romance! Beautifully written with an intriguing storyline and engaging characters. Whilst Taken By A Sinner (book one) was an explosive hate-to-love romance story, Owned By A Sinner was a mouth-watering instant attraction.

I am OBSESSED with Heard’s Mafiosos since The Saints series, and have been loving each and every one of the heroes within. Liam Byrne is rightfully amongst these group of men, but you immediately discover his unusual characteristics is what sets him apart from the rest. That, and the fact that he seems to have a well-managed balance of his two worlds— the seedy underworld and the world’s more civilized society.

Although a relatively quick full-length novel, I thought the world-building was rich and left open for possible expansion. There was a nice constant build-up throughout which paired well with the unpredictability of it all. An Irish Mafia romance with a kick! The romance can be considered insta-love but it doesn’t come off that way with how Liam’s and Kiara’s relationship developed. If you enjoy reading workplace romances, and/or age-gap romances in your mafia books, then I recommend you try this one on for size! 😉 It’s the second book in a series of standalones, so you can technically read this one without having read Taken By A Sinner first (although I highly recommend you read in publishing order for maximum experience).

Kiara didn’t stand out as much as Liam as I would’ve liked or was hoping for. She came off as a stereotypical damsel-in-distress. I would’ve loved to have seen her be a little bit wiser in her decisions and actions. Whilst she had a lot of naiveness to her, overall, she’s still a likable character. As the story progressed and certain situations became more intense, I ended up getting just as emotionally invested in Kiara as I did Liam. There’s a sweet innocence to their relationship that I found both endearing and refreshing in comparison to Heard’s previous mafia couples.

It’s told from dual points of view, along with relatable and hilariously realistic inner monologues that honestly couldn’t stop me from smiling. There are equal measures of romance and dark mafia elements, which I loved, and which Heard has delivered time and time again. She pushes the boundaries of the level of darkness she’s willing to put her characters through and their journey ends up becoming more in-depth and genuine because of it. Owned By A Sinner does contain sensitive subject matter that may be triggering for some readers such as, strong sexual assault, blackmail, and graphic violence. Intended for readers 18+ only.

I was amazed by the excellent contrast of light and dark Heard has executed with this story. It switches back and forth from a light-hearted atmosphere to one of danger and suspense without it feeling stilted. From my past experiences I’ve always found her writing to be consistently gripping from the characters she introduces, to the solid plotlines, to the overall execution of the storytelling. Always effortless to follow and this was no different.

Other than Liam’s and Kiara’s budding romance, I was gripped by the cast of secondary characters who made quite grin-inducing impressions themselves. They were the perfect addition that not only added some of the entertainment value, but also supporting storylines that added dimension to the overall book.

I thoroughly enjoyed it and had a hard time putting it down until I finished it. I thought it was an amazingly swoon-worthy second book to the series. It not only had me hooked from beginning to end but had me anticipating the next books to come. Despite the gritty world Kiara has been thrust into, Liam provided warmth, affection, and all-around safe haven that will ultimately melt your heart.

Gut-wrenching at times. Not going to lie, it’s a bit of tearjerker (at least for me). But by the end it will leave you with happy contentment! Also, an Irish Mafioso who’s described as looking like Charlie Hunnam?! Umm… yes please! 😍

RATING: ⭐⭐⭐⭐

Thank you Michelle Heard and Candi Kane PR for the opportunity to read an advance copy! 🧡

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

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⌚ Start The Sinner Series!

Original post from my IG @booksofthemuggleborn

Book One: Taken By A Sinner by Michelle Heard

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⛪ Read the Saints Series!

Original post from my IG @booksofthemuggleborn

Original post from my IG @booksofthemuggleborn

Books 1-4: The Saints Series by Michelle Heard

Book 5: Tears Of Salvation by Michelle Heard

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

The Date Arrangement by A. Zavarelli

Original post from my IG @booksofthemuggleborn

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• BLURB •

Australia

A romance anthology with over THIRTY original, never-before-seen stories from bestselling and award-winning authors. Each piece was written for this anthology to benefit firefighters and wildlife in Australia. AUSTRALIA is only available for a limited time, so one-click your copy before it’s gone.

AUTHORS INCLUDE: Penny Reid, Meredith Wild, Carly Phillips, Sierra Simone, Emma Scott, Susan Stoker, Kennedy Ryan, Willow Aster, Skye Warren, Kylie Scott, Aleatha Romig, Willow Winters, AL Jackson, Julia Kent, Rebecca Yarros, Nana Malone, Giana Darling, Emma Hart, Chelle Bliss, Noelle Adams, A. Zavarelli, Jenika Snow, Dylan Allen, Kayti McGee, Robin Covington, Mary Catherine Gebhard, Melanie Moreland, Parker S. Huntington, Nana Malone, Jewel E. Ann, Annabel Joseph, Celia Aaron, Michelle Heard, Brighton Walsh, Tamsen Parker, Pam Godwin, Kayti McGee

All royalties from this project will be donated to relief funds in Australia, with 50% going to a firefighter charity and 50% going to a wildlife charity. We aren’t affiliated or endorsed by these charities. We are simply authors who want to support an important cause.

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• MY REVIEW •

This review is for The Date Arrangement by A. Zavarelli only!

First off, as an Aussie, I want to say how incredibly kind-hearted and thoughtful these amazing group of authors are for thinking of Australia during the bushfire crisis that occurred the past summer, and for generously donating the proceeds from this anthology to charities.

I may be a little late in reading this anthology (as it’s been sitting in my kindle since last year), I figured one year late and with Australia Day here, it’s no better time to crack it open.

This review is for one of my all time favourite romance authors: A. Zavarelli. Her story The Date Arrangement was the one I wanted to read the most out of the collection… hence this review now.

Let’s get down to the most important detail, shall we? Did I like it?

Yes. Yes I did! 😁

I’ve read a few of Zavarelli’s novellas and short stories in the past and I knew I wouldn’t be disappointed with this one. She has a knack for getting you to feel and connect with her characters in such a short time frame.

This story was no different. It’s technically insta-love romance but Zavarelli effortlessly writes it in a way where you get some world-building, character backstory, and a budding relationship between our hero/ heroine before they hook up.

The Date Arrangement is about Daxon, an Aussie bloke who runs his family’s successful winery. Willow is hired to be Daxon’s date for an event at his estate celebrating his winery. She’s an American actress backpacking across Australia, and whilst this isn’t in her usual job description, she figures why not? She could use the money. It’s just one date. Nothing to it, right? Only, when she turns up to the event to meet Daxton, things are not exactly what they seem.

They’re both apprehensive at first but as they start conversing, they realize there’s a sense of comfort between them. I appreciate the fact that before they took a chance at anything romantic, they got to know each other a little first. It gives this novella some substance. It’s a big reason as to why I enjoy Zavarelli’s short stories as I do her full-length novels. It’s never fluff and you find yourself easily connecting with said characters and investing in their developing relationship.

They’re both instantly attracted to one another but there’s also a subtle but obvious click between the two when they’re talking. The chemistry only gets zingier from there. Both Dax and Willow give you an insight to their upbringing and their lives now. Their conversation felt very organic and realistic.. and if I may say so, had pretty good first date vibes!

It solely focuses on our lead characters, but there’s a few secondary characters that give this story some dimension. The addition of Dax’s grandfather displays his family upbringing, and his two best mates add the Aussie vibe into the mix.

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“I’m Dave. This is Bazza. We’re Daxo’s mates.”

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😂😂😂

Zavarelli did a relatively good job at getting her Aussie slang down pat. I even snort-laughed at the nicknames of her characters. It couldn’t get more Australian with a name like Bazza! LOL.

It’s a cute character-driven romance. A little predictable in the end but who cares? Although, I would’ve loved another paragraph or two just so the ending didn’t feel as rushed as the rest of the story. But overall, it’s a great in-between read and I was left in a happy sigh!

Zavarelli’s contemporary romances are just as gripping as her dark romances, and if you’re a fan, this one is not to be missed!

RATING: ⭐⭐⭐¾

🔔 Interested in reading the Australia anthology? Grab the paperback here: Amazon

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A safe and peaceful Australia Day to my fellow Aussies.

Happy reading to all, and as always, catch you in my next one! Xo