Two For The Show by Skye Warren

⚠ This review contains a minor teaser!

Original post from my IG @booksofthemuggleborn

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• BLURB •

Pregnant. Alone. And heartbroken. The only thing Eva Morelli knows for sure is that she wants this baby. She learned how to depend only on herself a long time ago.

The father, however? He made his position on marriage and children very clear.

Finn Hughes has fought his fate for years, but it’s finally catching up to him. Duty took away his choices. How can he hope for forever? He already knows how this ends.

There’s only one thing worse than having a family. Losing them.

Welcome to the Midnight Dynasty… The warring Morelli and Constantine families have enough bad blood to fill an ocean, and their brand new stories will be told by your favorite dangerous romance authors.

WARNING: This book is intended for readers eighteen years old and over. It contains material that some readers could find disturbing. Enter at your own risk…

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• MY REVIEW •

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“I’ll give her seven years. Or maybe only seven months. And when I’m lost to the world, when I leave her in mind, if not in body, she’ll forgive me.”

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Ooh we’re in the thick of it now with Finn and Eva! This second book in the Hughes series has heighted the emotional turmoil that they’re both facing. It’s completely angst-ridden, at times oh-so heart-breaking, and by the end left me on pins and needles in anticipation of the next book.

It’s an emotional journey of epic proportions that Finn and Eva are on and the way Warren has beautifully written it so far had me transported smack dab alongside them as they navigate through their dramatic world.

Finn Hughes is a complex protagonist that steals your attention. I was curious by his character right from the first book, and after reading this one it only heightened my interest. His not your stereotypical billionaire hero and I think that’s what makes him stand out from the crowd. He’s neither arrogant nor an alpha-hole, which is quite a change of pace from the men of this world.

Eva Morelli on the other hand is unpredictable in her ways, but no less intriguing. I wasn’t sold by all the things she had said and done in this book, but I still find her to be a likable heroine. I do feel as if we’ve barely scratched the surface and can only hope there’s more to her character than what has already been presented.

It wouldn’t officially be a Midnight Dynasty book without having some appearances from the Morelli and Constantine clans joining the Hughes family in adding dimension and a whole ton of complexity on top of Finn and Eva’s already fragile relationship. Be prepared for a few teary-eyed moments, even pops of frustration for some of the things that’ll go down.

I enjoyed seeing some realism of vulnerability and raw emotions coming from these characters. They have massive concerns and I found their reactions and thought-process (as disoriented as they might be) fairly understandable, especially when they feel like things are unravelling and have no sense of control or power to change it.

It ends with a jaw-dropping cliff-hanger that had me playing everything I just read over in my mind to see how I might have missed signs leading up to this conclusion. Just when I thought this book wasn’t going to have anymore surprises. 🤦‍♀️😅

It’s well-paced storytelling and for the most part with a melancholic atmosphere. There’s very little light-heartedness included, but in no way is it overly depressing either. Yes, there’s some saddening content but there’s also a balance of positivity and moral support for all characters included. I thought there was gradual character growth that flowed well with the developing narrative’s pacing.

This book showed a rare side to the Morelli clan. If you haven’t read any of the previous books in the world of the Midnight Dynasty, you would almost think the Morellis brutal reputations didn’t precede them. Lol. The familial dynamics and contrast of personalities have such an impact to this story, and to both Finn and Eva. They also leave you curious to know more of their own story and wanting to check out the backlist of books from this world.

All in all, it’s a billionaire romance story with what started out as a fake relationship turned very real, very quick! As Finn and Eva’s relationship deepens the more things hang in the balance, and the secrets that Finn has been struggling with are getting harder and harder to manage. Controversies will wreak havoc. Questions will need to be answered. And there certainly will be hell to pay!

One For The Money is the first book in the series and will need to be read first as this is a continuous storyline. It touches on real-life situations and mirrors the struggles people go through on a day to day basis with these life-altering matters.

I enjoyed reading this book and would absolutely recommend it. It’s an amazing continuance from the first book and leaves you eager for the next instalment. The spice level is low but with this particular story I didn’t mind it all. It’s full of heart, and as it is character-driven, it’s propelled by deep-seated emotion. Have tissues on standby… just in case.

RATING: ⭐⭐⭐⭐

Thank you Skye Warren and Give Me Books PR for the opportunity to read an advanced copy! ❤

🔔 Interested in reading the Hughes series? Grab the books here:

• Book One | One For The Money: Amazon US  |  Amazon UK  |  Amazon CA  |  Amazon AU  |  Barnes & Noble  |  Kobo  |  Apple Books  |  Google Play
• Book Two | Two For The Show: Amazon US  |  Amazon INTL  |  Apple Books  |  Barnes & Noble  |  Kobo  |  Google Play

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🥃 Hughes Series!

Original post from my IG @booksofthemuggleborn

Book One: One For The Money by Skye Warren

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More Midnight Dynasty reviews!

🥿 Skyscraper Cinderella | Book One:

Stroke Of Midnight by K. Webster

🤍 Dark Hearts Trilogy | Book One:

Stolen Hearts by M. O’Keefe

🌹 Beast of Bishop’s Landing | Book One:

Secret Beast by Amelia Wilde

🔥 Hellfire Club | Book One:

Wicked Idol by Becker Gray

✝ Standalone Taboo Romance:

Lessons In Sin by Pam Godwin

🕊 Dark Dream Duet | Book One:

Dangerous Temptation by Giana Darling

🎨 The Collector Trilogy | Book One:

Dark Reign by Amelia Wilde

♠ Wonderland Trilogy | Book One:

King Of Spades by Alta Hensley

🧭 Deserted Island Trilogy | Book One:

Force Of Nature by Skye Warren & Amelia Wilde

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

Force Of Nature by Skye Warren & Amelia Wilde

⚠ This review contains a minor teaser!

Original post from my IG @booksofthemuggleborn

•••

• BLURB •

Carter Morelli survived a violent childhood and dangerous missions. After he emergency lands the small aircraft, he faces something even worse: having someone depend on him. Geologist June Porter wants to study rocks. She didn’t plan to be stranded on a deserted island.

They aren’t alone on the island. A man hides among the broad leaves. He’s almost feral, this man. But he provides them shelter and food.

There are secrets in his hidden cabin. Desire, too.

Carter doesn’t want to care about the bookish, beautiful June.
But he doesn’t like this strange man’s interest in her, either.
Simmering chemistry wars with the need for survival.

Will they be found before they give into temptation?

Welcome to the Midnight Dynasty… The warring Morelli and Constantine families have enough bad blood to fill an ocean, and their brand new stories will be told by your favorite dangerous romance authors.

WARNING: This book is intended for readers eighteen years old and over. It contains material that some readers could find disturbing. Enter at your own risk…

•••

• MY REVIEW •

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“Everything has its equal. Its opposite. That’s you. You’re my equal and opposite.”

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Hmm. I think I was just as lost and hallucinatory as June was whilst reading this book. I was intrigued after reading the prologue; The Crash and by this book’s initial premise, unfortunately it ended up not being my cup of tea.

I am grateful for getting a chance to read an advance copy, I just wished I knew before signing for an ARC that this story contained MMF romance. I’ve read a handful of romances with this trope and whilst they’re not my typical go-to, I don’t mind them on occasion… IF they fit organically into its storyline. However, in this instance I just didn’t get a genuine connection amongst all three characters involved and the transition leading up to this development felt rushed and a little confusing. Call me crazy, but with how Carter was introduced in the prologue and for the first half of this story, I didn’t get the slightest hint that he’s bi-sexual/ attracted to both sexes. Despite the multiple POVs when the third party was introduced, the emotions and sexual attraction evoked out of these characters just didn’t come off as believable, in my honest opinion.

I liked the relatively short chapters and fast-pacing heightening the suspense— really transporting you to the dangers and the unknown looming over Carter and June on that island. But the downside to the fast-paced storytelling was it lead to abrupt developments (both storyline and relationships) that lacked depth or complexity. I was hoping for more character growth and genuine connection. I had gotten invested throughout the first half of the book seeing a potential romantic relationship between Carter and June, but it subsided almost immediately once their ménage à trois began.

In saying that, I strongly feel other romance readers will feel differently and end up loving this story. I think Warren and Wilde’s collaboration was executed well. I had no inkling of when one’s writing ended and the other began. I thought their writing styles blended seamlessly. I enjoyed the gradual suspense, the unpredictability, and the ache Carter and June felt for one another. The sexual tension practically leaped off the pages and had me gripping the edge of my seat hoping to see more interactions.

The first book in the Deserted Island Trilogy has set up the grim ambience and provides readers an intriguing insight into both Carter and June’s backstories. With the brutal elements of a deserted island as the backdrop, forced proximity between its protagonists, and danger lurking all around, Force of Nature has a Tarzan meets The Blue Lagoon atmosphere about it! It has a little bit of everything from romance, adventure, to action and suspense. You can easily read it in one sitting, but just know it concludes on a cliff-hanger.

I may not continue with the rest of the series but I am glad I got to see more than a glimpse of Carter Morelli and the mystery surrounding his life. This book finally lets you see him as a full-fledged character within the Midnight Dynasty. I think you’ll find the setting of his story a refreshing change from the hustle and bustle of the city and of the Morellis usual corporate lifestyle.

If you follow the world of the Midnight Dynasty, I still recommend you give this one a try.

RATING: ⭐⭐⭐

Thank you Skye Warren, Amelia Wilde, and Give Me Books PR for the opportunity to read an advanced copy! 💙

🔔 Interested in reading Force Of Nature? Grab your copy here: Amazon US  |  Amazon UK  |  Amazon CA  |  Amazon AU  |  Barnes & Noble  |  Kobo  |  Apple Books  |  Google Play

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🧭 Deserted Island Trilogy!

Original post from my IG @booksofthemuggleborn

Prologue: The Crash by Skye Warren & Amelia Wilde

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More Midnight Dynasty reviews!

🥿 Skyscraper Cinderella | Book One:

Stroke Of Midnight by K. Webster

🤍 Dark Hearts Trilogy | Book One:

Stolen Hearts by M. O’Keefe

🌹 Beast of Bishop’s Landing | Book One:

Secret Beast by Amelia Wilde

🔥 Hellfire Club | Book One:

Wicked Idol by Becker Gray

✝ Standalone Taboo Romance:

Lessons In Sin by Pam Godwin

🕊 Dark Dream Duet | Book One:

Dangerous Temptation by Giana Darling

🎨 The Collector Trilogy | Book One:

Dark Reign by Amelia Wilde

♠ Wonderland Trilogy | Book One:

King Of Spades by Alta Hensley

🥃 Hughes Series | Book One:

One For The Money by Skye Warren

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•••

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

The Crash by Skye Warren & Amelia Wilde

⚠ This review contain minor teasers!

Original post from my IG @booksofthemuggleborn

•••

• BLURB •

Carter Morelli works alone, but his orders are clear. Pilot the small aircraft carrying the renowned geologist to a remote island. Except the plane malfunctions at a crucial moment.

June Porter wants to stay on solid land. She doesn’t want to fly, but it’s the only way to get to the dig site. Then her worst fears come true.

A heavy storm. A swift fall from the sky. And a heart stopping crash.

An emergency landing leaves them stranded.

A shadow moves through the trees. They aren’t alone in the jungle.

•••

• MY REVIEW •

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“I said we wouldn’t crash, and life made a fool out of me. It can’t happen again. It’s up to me to get us to safety, somehow.”

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Warren and Wilde must’ve laughed at the thought of a prequel novella being an easing introduction to its main story because they plunge you straight into the deep end with this one! 😱

It’s fast-paced, punchy, and already has the heat levels rising. You can’t fault the premise because you’re getting exactly what it says it entails…

• Plane crash? Check ✔
• A deserted island? Check ✔
• Lust-fuelled interactions? Check ✔
• Danger lurking in the shadows? Again… check ✔

The Crash has set the atmosphere and the instantaneous dynamic between June and Carter. It’ll leave you armed with the know-how of the ominous situation they’ve been unexpectedly thrust into, and raring to start Force Of Nature.

I immediately perked up at the opposites-attract trope in this story, and I can already tell June will be a breath of fresh air in the Morelli family, and ultimately within the world of the Midnight Dynasty. Carter is not at all what I had expected from his brief appearances in previous stories, but I’m intrigued by his character, now more than ever.

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“But I want her. The crash shattered my self-control.”

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It’s a contemporary, billionaire romance with a twist. Carter may be a Morelli but he’s certainly not the intimidating, suit-wearing type, who flaunts his wealth and power… well, not yet at least. June is a likable heroine who screams “damsel-in-distress”, but having read quite a few books from this world and in particular from these two authors, there’s always more than meets the eye with the characters.

It’s a great little intro to June and Carter as protagonists, and seeing their first encounter. I would’ve loved to have seen a tad more suspense to really amped up the story and for what’s to come, but I’m not fussed because this is just the prequel. The instant-attraction mixed with the life and death experience they share leaves plenty of room for their relationship to develop, and with how this novella concluded, another element has been added to keep things on the island just a smidge more complicated.

RATING: ⭐⭐⭐¾

Thank you Skye, Amelia, and Give Me Books PR for the opportunity to read an advanced copy! 💚

🔔 Interested in reading The Crash? Grab your FREE copy here: Amazon US  |  Amazon INTL  |  Apple Books  |  Barnes & Noble  |  Kobo  |  Google Play

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More Midnight Dynasty reviews!

🥿 Skyscraper Cinderella | Book One:

Stroke Of Midnight by K. Webster

🤍 Dark Hearts Trilogy | Book One:

Stolen Hearts by M. O’Keefe

🌹 Beast of Bishop’s Landing | Book One:

Secret Beast by Amelia Wilde

🔥 Hellfire Club | Book One:

Wicked Idol by Becker Gray

✝ Standalone Taboo Romance:

Lessons In Sin by Pam Godwin

🕊 Dark Dream Duet | Book One:

Dangerous Temptation by Giana Darling

🎨 The Collector Trilogy | Book One:

Dark Reign by Amelia Wilde

♠ Wonderland Trilogy | Book One:

King Of Spades by Alta Hensley

🥃 Hughes Series | Book One:

One For The Money by Skye Warren

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•••

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

One For The Money by Skye Warren

Original post from my IG @booksofthemuggleborn

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• BLURB •

Finn Hughes knows about secrets. His family is as wealthy as the Rockefellers. And as powerful as the Kennedys. He runs the billion-dollar corporation. No one knows that he has a ticking time clock on his ability to lead.

Eva Morelli is the oldest daughter. The responsible one. The caring one. The one who doesn’t have time for her own interests.

Especially not her interest in the charismatic, mysterious Finn Hughes.

A fake relationship is the answer to both their problems.

It will keep the swarming society mothers from throwing their daughters at him.

And it will keep Eva’s mother from bothering her about marriage.

Then the fake relationship starts to feel real.

But there’s no chance for them. No hope for a woman who’s had her heart broken. And no future for a man whose fate was decided long ago.

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• MY REVIEW •

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“I could lose myself in you.”

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Okay, hold up! Who the hell is Phineas Hughes, where did he come from, and how come I’m only learning about him now!??

Skye Warren has just turned the world of the Midnight Dynasty on its head by introducing another powerhouse family to the Morelli-Constantine playpen. In a sweet and heartfelt story, Finn and Eva are such refreshing characters in what has been a sea of dark and broody personalities.

A fast-paced, relatively quick read, and told from dual points of view—One For The Money takes you on an emotional journey of two individuals who have more in common then they initially thought. Their similarities and need of escape from the daily grind is what ultimately forms their pact, but the intense sexual chemistry and genuine comradery is what makes their relationship a development I was wholly invested in.

Right from the opening scene, Finn and Eva caught my undivided attention. The air around me practically crackled with mischief and giddiness, just knowing that these two were about to take me (and fellow readers) on one gripping ride. It doesn’t disappoint. I was highly entertained, emotional, and fully sympathetic to both their predicaments.

A ton of spice… and all things nice! 😉😊 It’ll leave you a little dishevelled as it ends on quite a cliff-hanger. You can see this conclusion coming a mile away, but it no way takes away from the overall beauty of the story. Although some plot points were fairly predictable, I honestly didn’t mind it one bit, and it had lot to do with how likable I found Finn and Eva to be.

What is it about tragic love stories that makes you fall hard for the characters and hope for a happily ever after? 🤔 It may have started out innocent enough between Finn and Eva but you quickly discover that their relationship is bound for more than fun and games and simply being each other’s perfectly-timed arm candy. I love the sincerity and deep-hearted familial roots that encompass them both. It’s interesting to see how much love and devotion they have for their families despite having grown up in very different dynamics.

I was happy to see several character crossovers from other Midnight Dynasty books. Skye has managed to capture each character’s personality to a T, provided brief yet highly sought-after updates to their lives, and effortlessly interconnected all the books (both past and upcoming releases).

This book is well-written with what I think is a lovely balance of light-heartedness and thought-provoking drama. The Notebook meets Me Before You, in the sense that they have heart-breaking heroes, complex life stories, and headstrong heroines navigating through a life of restraints.

It broaches on serious, real-life matters that can be especially relatable for those who have gone or are going through similar experiences. I couldn’t help but sympathise these genuine, caring-natured protagonists who struggle through expectations within their social and private standings. It heavily mirrors real-life concerns such as health and well-being, adulting and with it—responsibilities, and it reiterates the importance of a support system and its impact on one’s mental state.

Another amazing addition to the Midnight Dynasty that I highly recommend! It stands out as a rare change of pace from the dark and gritty romances that this vivid fictional world already comprises of. As billionaire, fake relationship trope in a contemporary romance setting, this first book in the Hughes series is a dreamy introduction to what I can only hope will be Finn’s and Eva’s epic love story! I can’t wait for book two.

RATING: ⭐⭐⭐⭐

Thank you Skye Warren and Give Me Books PR for the opportunity to read an advanced copy! 💙

🔔 Interested in reading One For The Money? Grab your copy here: Amazon US  |  Amazon UK  |  Amazon CA  |  Amazon AU  |  Barnes & Noble  |  Kobo  |  Apple Books  |  Google Play

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More Midnight Dynasty reviews!

🥿 Skyscraper Cinderella | Book One:

Stroke Of Midnight by K. Webster

🤍 Dark Hearts Trilogy | Book One:

Stolen Hearts by M. O’Keefe

🌹 Beast of Bishop’s Landing | Book One:

Secret Beast by Amelia Wilde

🔥 Hellfire Club | Book One:

Wicked Idol by Becker Gray

✝ Standalone Taboo Romance:

Lessons In Sin by Pam Godwin

🕊 Dark Dream Duet | Book One:

Dangerous Temptation by Giana Darling

🎨 The Collector Trilogy | Book One:

Dark Reign by Amelia Wilde

♠ Wonderland Trilogy | Book One:

King Of Spades by Alta Hensley

💍 The Arranged Marriage | Book One:

The Reluctant Bride by Monica Murphy

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•••

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

Best Kept Secret by Skye Warren

Original post from my IG @booksofthemuggleborn

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• BLURB •

The secrets haunting Beau Rochester come alive.

He doesn’t deserve happiness, but he holds it in his hands. A woman he loves. A child. The past threatens to rip them away. He risks losing them forever.

Jane Mendoza is determined to protect the people she loves from every threat–the mysterious arsonist, the corrupt police force. The darkest danger comes from a place she never expects.

She risks more than her newfound family. She risks her life.

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• MY REVIEW •

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“A responsible boss doesn’t get involved with the nanny.”

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Whilst the first two books in the trilogy had an air of suspense and secrecy, I was a little taken aback to find this third and final book was surrounded in such a depressing tone. It’s hard not to be affected by it because Jane, Beau, and the secondary characters all seemed to be in such gloomy moods for the majority of the book.

I found the pace of the storytelling a little slower in comparison to the first two from this trilogy. Although this part of the story is told from multiple POVs, so there’s lots of input and perspectives from different characters regarding the situation they found themselves in.

The first half of the overall story was very much inspired by the classic tale, Jane Eyre, but Warren has given the final leg of Jane’s and Beau’s story her own.

The angst between Jane and Beau is still very much present— if anything it’s amped up further now that their relationship has evolved from their initial guardian/nanny fling. I found their relationship to be drama-filled, tentative, and complex. If you’re looking for a swoon-worthy romance with tons off heat leaping off the pages, you won’t find it with Jane and Beau. There was initial sexual chemistry and zing in the first two books, but I found as the drama intensified, the sizzling romance became minimal. The push-and-pull between them is almost painstakingly angsty, but it can’t be denied that they do have a desperate need for one another.

Other than the relationship between the protagonists, there’s some interesting secondary plotlines occurring in the background that adds an extra element to the story.

As I mentioned earlier there’s a somberness to this book that ultimately became a big decisive factor in how I felt about it as a whole. You definitely have to be in a particular mindset to read a romance story that’s heavy on tragedy and heartbreak, and be prepared for it to seep into your own emotions. I easily got affected by Jane’s insecurities, Beau’s indecisiveness, and especially Noah’s battered heart. He surprisingly became the character in this book that I became the most emotionally invested in, just because his frustration and opinions when it came to Jane and her actions I felt were just. I most certainly felt bad for the guy.

There’s some character growth since Private Property, but I would’ve liked to have seen more in-depth development. The world-building was created and set from the first book but didn’t really expand any further from the small cast of characters and the town they reside in.

Overall, I thought it was decent conclusion. I admit it’s my least favourite book from the trilogy, but after having read and gotten sucked into Jane’s and Beau’s world, I was curious to see how it will all end. If you like Jane Eyre and retellings, I recommend you add this story to your TBR. It’s a contemporary take on a classic with an age-gap romance trope. With the differences in social standings, lifestyles, and familial backgrounds, Jane and Beau are the epitome of “opposite sides of the tracks” that unexpectedly collided together and sparked life-altering moments. It’s a dark billionaire romance; a Cinderella story of sorts, with a smidge of suspense and foreboding. These characters will have you second-guessing everything and keep you on your toes.

RATING: ⭐⭐⭐½

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Thank you Skye Warren and Valentine PR for the opportunity to read an advanced copy! 💜

🔔 Interested in reading Best Kept Secret? Grab your copy here: Amazon  |  Apple Books  |  Nook  |  Kobo  |  Google Play

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🗝 Reviews for The Rochester Trilogy!

Original post from my IG @booksofthemuggleborn

Book One | Private Property by Skye Warren

Book Two | Strict Confidence by Skye Warren

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

Strict Confidence by Skye Warren

Original post from my IG @booksofthemuggleborn

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• BLURB •

Forbidden. Commanding. Mysterious. Beau Rochester has an entire house full of secrets. And those secrets are putting Jane Mendoza in danger.

She fell in love with the one man she can’t have. She should leave Maine to protect her heart, but the thread refuses to be severed. The brooding Mr. Rochester and his grieving niece are more than her job. They’re her new family.

She races against time to find answers and protect the people she loves. The cliffside grows dark with the misdeeds of the past. Her heart and her sanity fight a battle, but they are both at risk.

Will Mr. Rochester learn to trust Jane? And will that trust destroy her?

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• MY REVIEW •

The suspense, the mystery, and the thrill have amped up in book two of The Rochester Trilogy! This is a continuous storyline — Private Property must be read first and with how that book concluded, I was keen to read the next installment in Beau’s and Jane’s highly-charged relationship.

 As I mentioned in my review for the first book, this story is a modern retelling of the classic Jane Eyre. I had also mentioned that I hadn’t read that tale so I was going into Skye’s version relatively blind of the plot or how the characters relate to one another. I went into reading this story with an open mind, no issues with comparison to the original tale, and I think most importantly with no spoilers.

I love dark romances and this one had the element of suspense and thrill included. It’s more a romantic thriller than anything. I was kept on the edge of my seat the entire time. The gloomy, depressing air that surrounded the first book effortlessly flowed through to this second one. The backdrop might have altered from the mansion they stayed in for the entirety of the first book to a new location but the sense of dread and danger lingered with Jane and the Rochesters nevertheless.

Just like the first book, it’s well-paced storytelling and still told from dual points of view. I felt the fear and anxiety coming off of these characters. It leapt off the pages and I couldn’t help but feel a little on edge right alongside them.

Little by little you get more and more out of these characters, and the more you can’t help but get invested in seeing where their story will head next. Especially with Jane, having to uproot her life for this job, only to somehow end up trapped in the same uncertainty she was hoping to get out of by taking this job in the first place. Everything is up in the air with so many segments of this story —

✔ Beau’s and Jane’s relationship.

✔ Jane’s employment.

✔ The Rochester mansion.

✔ Paige’s wellbeing.

✔ The town they reside in and the people who seem to know everything and nothing.

✔ Their past, present, and future.

✔ Their sanity. Their sanity. Their sanity.

Nothing is for certain which is one of the main reasons why I found myself so absorbed by Jane, Beau and the mystery surrounding their lives. I’m hooked and totally in it for the long haul! I can’t wait to read Best Kept Secret. Although I found some of the plot twists unsurprising, I am still itching to see how everything will go down…. especially with how this book concluded in quite a tingly cliffhanger just as the first book had.

Besides Beau Rochester’s hard, hot-and-cold demeanor and indecisiveness, especially where Janes is concerned, I still found him to be a likable character. Despite all his wealth and success, he still comes off human with relatable insecurities.

I tend to forget a lot of the time that Jane is only nineteen years old with her maturity level in handling a fragile little girl and all the drama surrounding Beau. She’s lived a tough mudda of a life and it shows in her character.

Easy flowing storytelling with an effortless transition from the ending of book one to the beginning of book two. Strict Confidence also introduces new secondary characters that are just as shady as the ones that were in Private Property that’ll leave your mind reeling with what ifs.

For a reader who has very little clue of how close of a retelling this is to the original tale, or if it’s only inspired by it, I can’t comment on whether or not Skye’s version is a refreshing take. But either way, I did find it engaging from start to finish. If you enjoy reading dark, twisted romance books, I recommend you give this story a go. An age gap, workplace romance story with a side of suspense.

RATING: ⭐⭐⭐⭐

Thank you to Skye Warren and Give Me Books PR for the opportunity to read an advanced copy! 💙

🔔 Interested in reading Strict Confidence? Grab your copy here: Amazon US  |  Amazon UK  |  Amazon CA  |  Amazon AU  |  Barnes & Noble  |  Kobo  |  Apple Books  |  Google Play

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🗝 Read my review for The Rochester Trilogy!

Original post from my IG @booksofthemuggleborn

Book One: Private Property by Skye Warren

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•••

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

Private Property by Skye Warren

Original post from my IG @booksofthemuggleborn

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• BLURB •

When I signed up for the nanny agency, I didn’t expect a remote mansion on a windswept isle. Or a brooding billionaire who resents his new role.

His brother’s death means he’s now in charge of a moody seven year old girl. She’s lashing out at the world, but I can handle her. I have to. I need the money to finish my college degree.

As long as I can avoid the boss who alternately mocks me and coaxes me to reveal my darkest secrets.

•••

• MY REVIEW •

Hmm. 🤔🤔🤔 This is a tough review to put down into words that makes relative sense. But here it goes…

First things first— did I like it? Yes. Yes I did. At the time of reading Private Property, I hadn’t realized that it was a modern retelling of the Brontë classic; Jane Eyre. As I hadn’t read that story either, looking back I’m glad I went into reading this one with no expectations and with an open mind. I can’t help thinking if I somewhat knew the storyline (based off of the classic) I probably wouldn’t have been in suspense and kept on my toes as much whilst reading it.

Another thing I should point out is I haven’t read much workplace romance stories that specifically revolve around a nanny and her boss. Add in the age-gap between Jane and Mr. Rochester here (and yes, for those who’ve read Jane Eyre, after googling, I realized that Warren has kept the initial character names for her story), and it felt like a story I wouldn’t normally go for. But there was something so intriguing about the blurb that had me wanting to. And after reading it, I’m glad I did!

When it comes to the world of romance books, Warren has been around for some time. You’d be hard pressed to find anyone in the indie, dark romance world who hasn’t heard of Warren or read any one of her books. Whilst I haven’t read all of hers, the ones I have read have always left me feeling sucked into the world she has created and really invested in the characters. Private Property is no different…. especially with how the book concluded. This is only the first book in the trilogy but it has already dropped a jaw-dropping bomb that I am anticipating the next book.

It’s well-paced storytelling that had an air of mystery and doom from start to finish that leaves you never really feeling at ease because you know something is bound to happen to rock Jane’s world and put another twist to this dark romance. The first half of the book is told solely from Jane’s POV so I felt like you really get a sense of her hardships and why she’s come to be at the mansion working as a full-time nanny.

Trigger Warning: This story contains sensitive subject matter that may be triggering for some readers such as abuse, sexual assault, and drug use. Please keep in mind before starting this book.

Once you reach the halfway mark of the story, you finally get some insight from Mr. Rochester — although frustratingly limited insight. I wish I could say that by the end of the book you have full understanding of him and his family, but sadly no can-do. 😅 Whilst I was totally mesmerized by the unusual yet erotic interactions between him and Jane, if someone were to ask me to tell them more about Mr. Rochester, I honestly wouldn’t know what to say. By the end he was still as enigmatic and surrounded by uncertainty as when Jane first encountered him at the beginning.

Warren toes the romance boundaries within this story by stirring up a little bit of adventure and erotic excitement in the young and innocent Jane. The world-building is well created and the continuous cold and gloomy atmosphere almost transports you to the stormy cliffside backdrop the story takes place in. The beginnings of character developments is evident as the plot thickens and you get glimpses into both their pasts.

Overall, this book has good bones— a dark romance with a chunks of thrill and suspense. There’s a lot of secrecy surrounding these leading characters and the circumstances that brought Jane to the Rochester family in the first place. It honestly leaves you wanting more.

It’s an interesting story that peaks at your curiosity. If you’re an avid fan of Skye Warren, then you won’t want to miss this. If you’re a fan of dark romance reads and/or modern retellings of historical romances, add this to your TBR and give it a go.

RATING: ⭐⭐⭐⭐

Thank you to Skye Warren and Give Me Books PR for the opportunity to read an advanced copy! ❤

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•••

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

Dark Fairy Tales Anthology

 Check out my reviews for each of the fairy tales included in this collection. Happy reading!  The book is now available, if you’re interested in reading it yourself. 

Original post from my IG @booksofthemuggleborn

•••

— BLURB —

In a castle adorned with gems, coated in gold, and dusted with luxury, the youngest of the Constantine Family will be introduced to the elite of New York. But the party isn’t all glamor. Villains lurk in dark corners, evil deals are struck, and starcrossed loves are born.

FAIRY TALES INCLUDED:

The Ugly Duckling by CJ Roberts
Beauty and the Beast by Willow Winters
Cinderella by Aleatha Romig
Little Red Riding Hood by Karina Halle
Jack & the Beanstalk by Marley Valentine
Snow White by T.M. Frazier
Rumplestiltskin by Celia Aaron
King Midas by Skye Warren
King Thrushbeard by Cora Reilly
Princess and the Pea by Sierra Simone
Swan Princess by Natasha Knight

Attend the ball, wear a red cloak, lose your shoe, spin straw to gold, or fall prey to a witch. In these fairytale retellings from bestselling authors, you will find a prince, but you might choose your happily ever after with the beast.

DARK FAIRY TALES is a limited-time anthology of modern fairy tales containing all NEW novellas. Download your copy and tell a book-loving friend, because it won’t last long.

•••

— MY REVIEW —

This was one hell of a romance anthology (and it couldn’t have come at a better time with lock down still very much in place here in Australia)! Some of these authors are new-to-me, as well as some of the tales included, but they made such an impact in making me want to check out other books written! I only wish these stories were longer. I’ve had to settle for rereading them! 😅

King Midas by Skye Warren

RATING: ♥♥♥♥

🎵 “I’ve got the Midas touch. Everything I touch turns to gold…”

And boy, did Raoul Midas certainly do that! A rich, successful, and powerful man paying for an escort, but finds himself enamored by the young, beautiful, and innocent Anita. This romance trope has been done plenty of times, and I’ve read a handful of them in the past, but this one had me curious from the get-go what with Raoul’s affliction at being touched. Yet, if Raoul was to let anyone break this barrier he puts up, Anita would be the one. Loved the intrigue, their instant connection, and their little chats! 🥰

…

Rumpelstiltskin by Celia Aaron

RATING: ♥♥♥♥

One of the old time classics. I don’t think there’s a lot of people in the literary world who wouldn’t have heard of, or read this tale of shifty dealings with the one and only Rumpelstiltskin — or in this case, the name is Clark. To be honest, I haven’t read any retellings of it (it had never been one of my faves growing up), but this was such a good one to start off with, and if anyone was every looking for dark, swoony versions of it, I wouldn’t hesitate to mention this novella! 😍 It’s modern, very well written, and oh-so gripping!

…

The Princess and the Pea by Sierra Simone

RATING: ♥♥½

Meh. I think I stumbled into the middle of the story because I was lost for a good chunk of the first half. It reads like you’re familiar with the characters already and their situation from the get-go, but I felt like I was trying to play catch-up. This is a Dom/Sub, second chance romance with some BDSM. There are plenty of romance readers who enjoy this type of romance, it’s just never been a preference of mine. So for that reason, I couldn’t connect as much as I would’ve liked with this story.

…

The Little Red Riding Hood by Karina Halle

RATING: ♥♥♥½

👩‍🦰“My what big teeth you have.” 

Seduction, mystery and murder, oh my! Starts off with so much intrigue already, until it slowly unveils the truth and you realize that this is definitely a dark and bloody tale. An enjoyable novella, that manages to create world-building and development between Red and Wolf within a good story line in a short span.

…

The Ugly Duckling by CJ Roberts

RATING: ♥♥½

As much as I would’ve wanted to like this story, I just couldn’t connect with it as much as the others. It’s detailed and somewhat wordy, and for a novella it surprisingly dragged a little for my liking. It did have elements from the original classic, e.g. being a little bit different from the rest and finally having the courage to stand up for yourself, but other than that this was a whole new story. Contains F/F romance. There’s sensitive subject matter within that may trigger some readers.

…

Beauty and the Beast by Willow Winters

RATING: ♥♥♥♥

“It’s a tale as old as time, isn’t it?”

I’ve read quite a few Beauty and the Beast inspired stories and retellings, and I still can’t get enough of them. This was a deliciously, dark and sensual version. It kept a lot of the elements we all know so well from the classic but wonderfully written in a modern setting. So much spark and heat between Calum and Annabelle that I could not turn the pages fast enough to see how things would unravel between them. Such world-building and build-up between the hero/heroine from start to finish.

…

Jack & the Beanstalk by Marley Valentine

RATING: ♥♥♥

Damn. This was one of those fan-your-face type of romance read. 🙈 I honestly couldn’t picture a Jack and the Beanstalk retelling as an adult M/M romance (or any romance for that matter), yet lookey here! And this one’s full of betrayal, revenge, and unrelenting love. If you’re a fan of enemies to lovers/ hate to love romance tropes, like I do, you’ll enjoy this one.

…

King Thrushbeard by Cora Reilly

RATING: ♥♥♥♥½

A tale I was not at all familiar with. Now? I am obsessed with the tale! Or maybe it’s just Cora’s version of it, who knows?! 😄 Arranged marriage. Hate-to-love romance trope. Some mystery. With very hot and heavy scenes between Jean and Peyton. This story had me wanting more!

📔 Read my full review: King Thrushbeard by Cora Reilly

…

The Swan Princess by Natasha Knight

RATING: ♥♥♥♥½

One of my fave tales growing up. This is a must read. I thoroughly adored Knight’s take on it. I couldn’t get enough of the anticipation and build-up, and chemistry between Salvatore and Lucia.  Knight’s dark mafia spin was a refreshing take, with the prince in this version being the villain. Enemies-to-lovers at it’s best! 😍😍

📔 Read my full review: The Swan Princess by Natasha Knight

…

Cinderella by Aleatha Romig

RATING: ♥♥♥

I thought this was an interesting take on one of my all time favourite fairy tales. Whilst it does have the main elements of the classic — like the shoes, the ball and evil stepsisters, it also has a lot of new elements that really make the story Romig’s own. She’s incorporated her book series (which I’m not familiar with) into this novella. It’s special-ops/ military type romance. If you like reading from that romance sub-genre, you’ll like this one.

…

Snow White by T.M. Frazier

RATING: ♥♥♥♥

Oooh. This was a deviously grimy read, and I didn’t expect anything less from Frazier. I’ve read quite a few dark versions of Snow White and this was probably one of the more twisted of the lot. It’s icky…yet not? 😅 All I can say, is if you’ve read quite a lot of dark romance books, and/ or familiar with Frazier’s style of romance, then the things that with these characters is nothing new to the world. Either way, I loved the intensity between Chase and Neve.

…

If you love dark versions of fairy tales, a modern retelling, and/ or stories inspired by them, then I think you’ll enjoy this anthology. There’s amazing romance authors included and their take on these classic tales are addictive that you won’t be able to put it down.

Whilst I’ve always been a fan of fairy tales, I admit some of these classics were unfamiliar to me, but after having read these ones, it’s completely made me fall in love with them. I highly recommend it.

Perfect to read in one sitting, or a couple at a time between your other reads.

OVERALL RATING: ♥♥♥♥½

Thank you Skye Warren and Valentine PR for the opportunity to read an advanced copy! 💗

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Hope you enjoyed it. Catch you in my next one, guys! Xo