Bayou Book Junkie's 2016 Favorites ~ Mari's Favorites
I've been reading romances ever since I learned to read. My mom used to buy and collect Buenhogar, Vanidades and Cosmopolitan magazines and I would devour them, including the condensed novels that could be found in them, then I moved on to the books in our library (encyclopedias, novels, etc.). Later, when I entered high school, we were requested to read a certain number of books in English, and while I'd enjoyed reading in Spanish up until that point, well, it opened a whole new world for me. I got some romances, historical mostly, which I read and re-read. Then they started selling Harlequin books at the supermarket, in Spanish of course, but beggars can't be choosers, and I got addicted to the damn things, despite rolling my eyes repeatedly at the obviously not so good translations. I nearly cried when they stopped selling them here, but I had a good collection by then and then my mom threw it all away. *cries* Still, I had my favorite bookshop to rely on to provide me with books in English, most of which I still have. *hides them from mom's eyes* Until they closed it, as well. By then, though, I had found the fabulous world that is the Spuffy fandom in the BtVS universe and had a whole lot of fanfiction to go through there. Then, I moved on to the Tokio Hotel fandom and discovered the beauty that is MM or slash fiction, and from then I moved on to MM books in Amazon, which was like heaven to me, considering that my country is very conservative, and while I might find some books in English here, they won't be MM.
I read just about anything if the blurb or the cover are appealing to me. My favorite genres are historical, contemporary, paranormal and fantasy, but I've read and enjoyed the occasional BDSM book so long as it's nothing too extreme. I still read MF sometimes, too, but mostly from authors I know already, but MM remains my favorite.
I've read a lot of great books this year, so narrowing my 2016 top reads to the agreed 15 was so not going to happen, although I got close enough settling on a nice Top 18 (kind of cheated with a couple of series) and an MF Top 3. #SorryNotSorry #BookJunkieProblems
So, without further ado, these are my lists, in alphabetical order:
So, without further ado, these are my lists, in alphabetical order:
A Cowboy's Home by RJ Scott
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Each new book into the series has been better than the previous, as the mystery of Adam and Justin's disappearance became clearer and we learn more of each of the characters. It was amazing to see most of the faces we'd already met and getting to meet a few new ones in this installment.
Sam was so lovely and supporting, but he didn't let Justin just trailblaze over him, which was really nice to see. Justin was full of guilt and remorse and my heart broke over all he'd gone through, but he just couldn't stay away from Sam. I just loved the connection between them, it was really heartwarming to see Sam knowing instinctively how to help Justin and see how drawn to Sam Justin was. They had great chemistry, too, and I adored them together.
A fabulous addition to the series, very detailed-oriented and character-driven, filled with emotion, suspense and lovable characters that I can't get enough of, which makes the fact there'll be another book in it, a delicious surprise! Very recommendable!
Rating: 5 Stars!!!
Sam was so lovely and supporting, but he didn't let Justin just trailblaze over him, which was really nice to see. Justin was full of guilt and remorse and my heart broke over all he'd gone through, but he just couldn't stay away from Sam. I just loved the connection between them, it was really heartwarming to see Sam knowing instinctively how to help Justin and see how drawn to Sam Justin was. They had great chemistry, too, and I adored them together.
A fabulous addition to the series, very detailed-oriented and character-driven, filled with emotion, suspense and lovable characters that I can't get enough of, which makes the fact there'll be another book in it, a delicious surprise! Very recommendable!
Rating: 5 Stars!!!
A Gentleman's Position by KJ Charles
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Amazon.com ~ Amazon.co.uk ~ Publisher
Amazon.com ~ Amazon.co.uk ~ Publisher
The plot was complicated and it involved all the characters we've met from the other books, tying it all up in a very realistic manner.
I have to give props to Ms. Charles on not only her fabulous writing abilities, but being able to transport her readers to a different time and place and connect with all these fantastic characters. A Gentleman's Position was definitely my favorite of the three books, but they all were amazing on their own. Definitely a must read!
I have to give props to Ms. Charles on not only her fabulous writing abilities, but being able to transport her readers to a different time and place and connect with all these fantastic characters. A Gentleman's Position was definitely my favorite of the three books, but they all were amazing on their own. Definitely a must read!
Rating: 5+ Stars!!!
A Second Harvest by Eli Easton
All in all, this was a fabulous read! Very well-written, with a very organic flow, romantic, sweet, angsty and all-around great. If I could've asked for something more, it'd been to have the last chapter before the Epilogue to be longer, but I was satisfied with it as it was.
Very recommendable!
Rating: 5 Stars!!!
Aced/Locked (PresLocke series) by Ella Frank and Brooke Blaine
I just loved that they were each other's crush before they met on the movie set and while they didn't exactly hit it off at first, it was awesome to see their relationship progress. My favorite of the two was Dylan, mostly because he was willing to do whatever it took to be with Ace. That doesn't mean I didn't like Ace, because I did, it's only that there were a few instances when I just wanted to slap some sense into him, even if ultimately he more than made up for it.
This was another seamless collaboration by Ella Frank and Brooke Blaine, both of whom I already love, melding two series that I have adored reading, and while there was a bit of a cliffhanger at the end, it didn't diminish my enjoyment of Ace and Dylan's story. I'll be definitely looking forward to more, hopefully very soon!
Rating: 5 Stars!!!
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I absolutely loved this book and I have to say I was gladly surprised that, even if Dylan and Ace had to go through a lot of things, all the angst came from other sources, not themselves. It wasn't easy for them, having to deal with the invasion into their private lives, with barely being able to breathe without it being documented by the paps, and yet, they managed to remain immovable in their decision to be together. They were truly stronger together, than they ever were apart.
Ace and Dylan are just perfect for each other, their chemistry was as electric as in the first book, but we saw a progression into something deeper as the story continued. I loved that we learned a bit more of Dylan's parents and that we caught up with Derek in this book, too! He's such a fantastic character!
Ace and Dylan are just perfect for each other, their chemistry was as electric as in the first book, but we saw a progression into something deeper as the story continued. I loved that we learned a bit more of Dylan's parents and that we caught up with Derek in this book, too! He's such a fantastic character!
All in all, this was a fantastic continuation to an amazing series! I think I loved this book just about as much as the first one. Ella Frank and Brooke Blaine writing together are definitely a force to be reckoned with, and I, for one, can't wait for 2017 to read the conclusion of this story.
Very recommendable!
Rating: 5 Stars!!!
Behind Iron Lace by Mercy Celeste
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The last thing I expected when I started reading Behind Iron Lace was how it would impact me. Not only did I stay awake all night reading, but I had a major book hangover after I finished. I completely fell for Caleb and Darcy and just couldn't put the book down until I was finished with it. I was blown away by the story and all that the guys went through before and after they met. I was swept away in a sea of emotions as I cried, laughed and squirmed (there might be quite a bit of fanning myself, too) while I read, totally wrapped up in this fabulous book. There's heartbreak, there's romance, there's angst, there's hotter than hot sex and the almost magical descriptions of New Orleans that just made want to be there (definitely not during summer, though and my lovely co-blogger, Tracy, can confirm you don't want to visit between April and September) and let's not forget Caleb's charm and his use of French words that made me a bit weak-kneed. All in all, definitely one of my favorite books ever, one that I know I'll read again. Highly recommendable!
Rating: 5++++ Stars!!!
Beyond the Sea by Keira Andrews
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I am a big fan of Keira Andrews, and GFY is one of my favorite tropes, so I jumped at the chance to review this book and I wasn't disappointed! Keira Andrews did a great job with making it realistic on both Troy and Brian's parts, it wasn't sudden, she took her time and laid the foundation of their friendship and how slowly that morphed into something more, deeper and more meaningful, without making it feel forced.
This is a fantastic book, one you won't regret buying. It is insightful and hopeful and it shows us that love is love and that's that. It left me feeling all warm and fuzzy, after the emotional rollercoaster Ms. Andrews took us in with that last part. Definitely recommendable!
Rating: 5 Stars!!!
Br0th3rly by Alina Popescu
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I fell in love with Tristan from the first page of this book. He was such a powerful, lovable, well-rounded character. I laughed with him, my heart broke for him and I was so unbelievably happy that he got his HEA like you wouldn't believe. Trevor was sweet, too, and I really loved seeing them together. And their parents were so awesome, so caring, loving and supportive.
Alina Popescu took me through a rollercoaster of emotions while reading this book, happiness, despair, crying my eyes out (you will so need to stock up on Kleenex for the middle portion of this book!) and left me with a huge smile in my face. Hugely recommended!
Rating: 5 Stars!!!
I fell in love with Tristan from the first page of this book. He was such a powerful, lovable, well-rounded character. I laughed with him, my heart broke for him and I was so unbelievably happy that he got his HEA like you wouldn't believe. Trevor was sweet, too, and I really loved seeing them together. And their parents were so awesome, so caring, loving and supportive.
Alina Popescu took me through a rollercoaster of emotions while reading this book, happiness, despair, crying my eyes out (you will so need to stock up on Kleenex for the middle portion of this book!) and left me with a huge smile in my face. Hugely recommended!
Rating: 5 Stars!!!
Connection Error by Annabeth Albert
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Carina Press | Amazon US | Amazon UK | Barnes & Noble | Google Play | Itunes | Kobo Books
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Josiah was adorkable and while he wasn't too sure of himself at first, he found strength and determination deep inside and showed a huge character growth throughout the book, finally learning to stand up for himself. Ryan was stubborn, trying to make things work for himself, until he had to realize opening up to others' help wasn't a bad thing, especially when it was someone like Josiah doing the helping. Josiah and Ryan couldn't have been more different, both physically and mentally, and yet, they complemented the other perfectly. Josiah was definitely what Ryan needed at that point of his life and it was lovely to see their friendship bloom right along with the attraction they felt for the other.
For as much as I've loved the other books in the Gaymers' series, I think I have a new favorite now and Josiah and Ryan are definitely one of my favorite couples. The book is fantastic, it's well-written, character-driven and emotional as we see Jos and Ryan overcome the hurdles life throws at them. Definitely a must-read!
Rating: 5 Stars!!!
Josiah was adorkable and while he wasn't too sure of himself at first, he found strength and determination deep inside and showed a huge character growth throughout the book, finally learning to stand up for himself. Ryan was stubborn, trying to make things work for himself, until he had to realize opening up to others' help wasn't a bad thing, especially when it was someone like Josiah doing the helping. Josiah and Ryan couldn't have been more different, both physically and mentally, and yet, they complemented the other perfectly. Josiah was definitely what Ryan needed at that point of his life and it was lovely to see their friendship bloom right along with the attraction they felt for the other.
For as much as I've loved the other books in the Gaymers' series, I think I have a new favorite now and Josiah and Ryan are definitely one of my favorite couples. The book is fantastic, it's well-written, character-driven and emotional as we see Jos and Ryan overcome the hurdles life throws at them. Definitely a must-read!
Rating: 5 Stars!!!
For Never and Always by Ana J. Phoenix
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This book was not what I usually read; actually, I wasn't too sure from the blurb what I was getting myself into. However, I was pleasantly surprised. I had never read a book by Ana J. Phoenix, but if all her other books are like this one? Count me in all the way!
This was a fascinating, heart-wrenching, emotional, fantastically written book! Seth and Carter were absolutely lovable and while I wasn't sure how well a story like this could end, I can assure you, you won't be sorry to pick it up. Just stock up on the Kleenex beforehand, because you'll need them! Highly recommendable and a story that will remain with me for a long while!
Rating: 5 Stars!!!
His Premier by Jessie Gin
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Amazon
This book was amazing! All I could've hoped for after reading the blurb and more, so much more. From the first few chapters where Colin and Arnaud met and then through the despair when things started going wrong for them, Jessie G captured both my heart and my attention. I fell hard for Colin and I just wanted to cuddle him and promise it'll all be alright. And while I was kind of angry at some point with Arnaud, the author actually made it so that I ended up falling for him when he did all he needed to prove to Colin he was worthy of forgiveness and love again.
All in all, this has been one of my favorite reads this year! It was enthralling, angsty, yet filled with love and hope and forgiveness, with engaging characters I couldn't get enough of and written in a very realistic manner considering all the issues dealt with in the book!
Rating: 5+ Stars!!!
Interborough by Santino Hassell
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Riptide Publishing
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All in all, I thoroughly enjoyed Santino's gritty, realistic writing style and I simply couldn't put down the book until I was done with it. (Who needs sleep, right?) It was entertaining and I simply couldn't get enough of Ray and David as they worked for their HEA. Highly recommendable!
Rating: 5 Stars!!!
Kiss & Ride by Teodora Kostova
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I loved both Luca and Vin, and while this was a bit of insta-love, well, it definitely worked in this case. The connection between both men and having them bond through what they were going through, Vin with all his conflicting emotions regarding the father he never knew and Luca with having to fight against his parents who were contesting his grandma's will, coupled with their electric chemistry, made their relationship more intense. There's no denying that Teodora Kostova is a master at writing sex scenes that are hotter than hot, but that go deeper than just a casual hookup, and damn, if I couldn't feel the heat rising from my kindle with some of the scenes.
The writing was amazing as always, Teodora can effortlessly transport her readers to the places where her books are set making the experience even more vivid, Vin and Luca were fantastic and their love story was one that will remain in my heart for years to come. Highly recommendable!
The writing was amazing as always, Teodora can effortlessly transport her readers to the places where her books are set making the experience even more vivid, Vin and Luca were fantastic and their love story was one that will remain in my heart for years to come. Highly recommendable!
Rating: 5+ Stars!!!
Private Truths
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I loved Jack and Edward. They were as different as night and day, and yet, they complimented each other brilliantly. Jack had gone through so much while in service and afterward when he came back. He is dealing with PTSD, recovering from his addiction and trying to live with the guilt of his bad decisions and his anger. He works harder than anyone at Those Returned to give something back, doing everything he can to help others that have been in his position. He barely has a social life, until he meets Edward, who pursues him relentlessly once he realizes his interest is returned by Jack. I adored Edward. While Jack made me want to cuddle him and make it all better, Edward was like this charming force of nature that saw Jack and just had to have him. He wasn't the playboy the media thought he was, and he proved his worth more than once throughout the whole ordeal they had to endure. I just loved that while they fell into bed together at first, Edward was there for Jack in any capacity he needed him, and Jack was also willing to be there for Edward. They had amazing chemistry that slowly grew into more and no matter if it was just talking, Edward comforting Jack or them having sex, it was obvious they were so perfect for each other.
Overall, Private Truths started a bit awkwardly, it took me a bit to get into it, but once I did, I just couldn't put it down. I was completely enthralled in the intrigue and the suspense of what would happen and how it would all unravel. The book is well-written, realistic, engaging, with a fantastic array of both principal and supporting characters that will make you laugh and cry and care for them. Definitely going on the re-read shelf! Highly recommendable!
Book 1: Will & Patrick Wake Up Married
Overall, Private Truths started a bit awkwardly, it took me a bit to get into it, but once I did, I just couldn't put it down. I was completely enthralled in the intrigue and the suspense of what would happen and how it would all unravel. The book is well-written, realistic, engaging, with a fantastic array of both principal and supporting characters that will make you laugh and cry and care for them. Definitely going on the re-read shelf! Highly recommendable!
Rating: 5 Stars!!!
Second to None by Felice Stevens
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I absolutely adored this book, especially Marcus! *cuddles Marcus* There's just something about an arrogant man like he is showing his vulnerable side that just tugs at my heartstrings. I liked Tyler, although I have to admit that during the first half of the book I wanted to slap some sense into him so he could see Marcus as I saw him. I was cheering up at one scene around the middle of the book when Darius and Antonio actually made Tyler see what had been in front of his face the whole time. From then on, I liked Tyler a whole lot more.
This was such a fantastic read! Well written and filled with emotion, hot sex and engaging characters in a heartbreaking tale in which love and commitment definitely win over lifelong fear and trust issues! Definitely a must-read!
Rating: 5 Stars!!!
This was such a fantastic read! Well written and filled with emotion, hot sex and engaging characters in a heartbreaking tale in which love and commitment definitely win over lifelong fear and trust issues! Definitely a must-read!
Rating: 5 Stars!!!
Strong Signal by Megan Erickson and Santino Hassell
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I loved Garrett and Kai. They are amazing characters, both on their own and together. Garrett was so protective, patient, supportive and loving. Kai was an introvert, with deeply ingrained social anxiety issues and it was heartbreaking seeing him struggle at times with it all, and then by the end of the book, I was also so proud of him for being strong enough to work on his issues for himself and for what he wanted to achieve with Garrett.
This was such a fantastic, seamless collaboration by Megan Erickson and Santino Hassell. The book is amazing, full of emotion, great dialogue, sizzling chemistry and endearing characters that you can't help but love and root for. Definitely a must-read and one that will go right up on my Top Five reads for sure!
Rating: 5+ Stars!!!
The Places We Say Goodbye by Jordan Taylor
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View Full Review here.
This book was amazing and while I'm not fond of multiple POVs, in this case, it worked great because we got to see all the nuances of what Flep was going through and how it affected others through Amélie, Isabelle and Torin's eyes, as well as Flep's.
The dream sequences were brilliantly worked into the story and I loved how Jordan Taylor managed to bring it all together in a very emotional read that had me in tears in several parts, so please stock up on the kleenex before starting. The book, which was well-written and interesting, kept me riveted from start to finish. This is not a romance, it's a story about love and going well and above to keep a promise to a loved one and about learning to be more tolerant and not to take others for granted, and above all, it's a story about family. Definitely a must-read!
Rating: 5+ Stars!!!
Tied to Trouble by Megan Erickson
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Chad and Owen are amazing, both by themselves and as a couple, although I have a certain weakness for Chad. He showed so much growth during the story, from the slightly irresponsible bad boy into someone he and Owen could feel proud of. His insecurities at feeling he might not be good enough for Owen just made me want to cuddle him. The two of them together were unbelievingly HOT, and every scene with them made the room temp go up a few degrees. *fans self* They were also funny and sweet and so very stubborn, which certainly kept things interesting.
I've read other stories by Megan Erickson, but I can safely say this is my favorite of hers and probably my favorite from any other author ever, too. The brilliant, fun and sexy writing, with an engaging set of characters and a fantastic enemies-to-lovers premise makes this one hell of a way to start 2016! You definitely can't go wrong with it!
Rating: 5+ Bow Tied Stars!!!
Wake Up Married Series by Leta Blake and Alice Griffiths
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I adored Patrick! He's a fantastic character. Sure, he's brash and is lacking in the tact department, but he feels real. I am still not too sure how I feel about Will, while he's supposed to be the 'good' one, I'm not all that fond of him. He asks a lot of Patrick, without giving much in return, and is so set in getting back together with his ex, Ryan, who I liked even less. I'm willing to give Will the benefit of the doubt, though, since he has his moments and it's obvious Patrick is really interested in him, even if he wishes he wasn't.
This was a fantastic start of the series! Very recommendable!
Rating: 4.5 Stars!!!
Book 2: Will & Patrick Meet The Family
This was a fantastic start of the series! Very recommendable!
Rating: 4.5 Stars!!!
Book 2: Will & Patrick Meet The Family
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I am really enjoying this story. It's a fast, entertaining read. I just adore seeing Patrick interact with all the people in Healing and their reactions to him. I love reading the scenes where the chemistry between Patrick and Will comes shining through and see them getting closer. I'm really looking forward to the next episode and reading how Will and Patrick Do The Holidays!
Rating: 4.5 Stars!!!
Book 3: Will & Patrick Do The Holidays
Rating: 4.5 Stars!!!
Book 3: Will & Patrick Do The Holidays
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I've said it before and I'll say it again, I adore Patrick! He's brash and brutally honest, but he's also hardworking and caring and with every passing episode that we get to know him better, he becomes more real and vulnerable. In this episode, in particular, we learn more of his past and learn more of his 'family' back in Atlanta as he opens up to Will and I just wanted to cuddle him and keep him safe.
The chemistry between Will and Patrick and the sexual tension is burning hot, but also the tender moments where their friendship grows are amazing.
This book was just about as fun and well written as the others, but as we advance further into the story, I've grown more and more invested in these fantastic characters lives.
Rating: 5 Stars!!!
Book 4: Will & Patrick Fight Their Feelings
The chemistry between Will and Patrick and the sexual tension is burning hot, but also the tender moments where their friendship grows are amazing.
This book was just about as fun and well written as the others, but as we advance further into the story, I've grown more and more invested in these fantastic characters lives.
Rating: 5 Stars!!!
Book 4: Will & Patrick Fight Their Feelings
This is the fourth installment in the Will & Patrick serial and I'm still loving it so much! Will and Patrick have grown closer, adding sex to their friendship, but there are still many things in the rocky way to married bliss.
Patrick is still as awesome as always, and in this book, I fell a bit more for him as we saw a more vulnerable side to him. Seeing him falling for Will, even if he's trying to rationalize it, and see him suffer when Will says he's looking forward to falling in love with someone else in the future, just breaks my heart. I'm still not too sure about Will, and I really keep hoping for that moment in which things will click for him and have him see how perfect Patrick is for him, how caring and lovable and how he just complements him.
Rating: 4.5 Stars!!!
Patrick is still as awesome as always, and in this book, I fell a bit more for him as we saw a more vulnerable side to him. Seeing him falling for Will, even if he's trying to rationalize it, and see him suffer when Will says he's looking forward to falling in love with someone else in the future, just breaks my heart. I'm still not too sure about Will, and I really keep hoping for that moment in which things will click for him and have him see how perfect Patrick is for him, how caring and lovable and how he just complements him.
Rating: 4.5 Stars!!!
Book 5: Will & Patrick Meet The Mob
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I truly adore this series more than words can express. The writing is stellar and the storyline just keeps getting better and better. While I wasn't too sure about Will at first, he's grown on me, especially in this episode. He's really growing up and becoming a better man, and thankfully, he's not blinded by his ex any longer. Patrick is still his snarky self, but we're seeing this other side of him, the side that is head over heels in love with Will and that is vulnerable and not sure how to cope with being in love with someone for the first time.
Life is so interesting in Healing and Patrick keeps winning allies, the secondary cast is amazing and I just can't get enough of all of them.
Rating: 5 Stars!!!
Book 6: Will & Patrick's Happy Ending
Life is so interesting in Healing and Patrick keeps winning allies, the secondary cast is amazing and I just can't get enough of all of them.
Rating: 5 Stars!!!
Book 6: Will & Patrick's Happy Ending
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This is the last installment for the Will & Patrick series and I was so sorry to see it end! It was such a rollercoaster ride and it brought me my favorite MC ever, Patrick. *cuddles Patrick* He is such a delight to read, sarcastic, fun, arrogant as all hell, but so protective and supportive of the persons he holds dear and loves. I liked Will, but his hot and cold routine as he made up his mind got old very fast, especially when it hurt my lovely Patrick. Really, when even Will's mom is in Patrick's corner, and if you've read the series, you know how big that is, and he keeps at it, well, I just wanted to slap him silly. Don't get me wrong, I loved them together, but I loved Patrick a whole lot more. So even if I'm happy they got their HEA, I would've liked it if Patrick hadn't had to go through all he did in this book to get it.
Anyway, even with that, I have to thank both Leta and Alice for such a fantastic read. From book 1 until this last one, the collaboration has been flawless and all the characters (but Ryan) were amazing and made the story come alive for me.
Rating: 4.5 Stars!!!
This is the last installment for the Will & Patrick series and I was so sorry to see it end! It was such a rollercoaster ride and it brought me my favorite MC ever, Patrick. *cuddles Patrick* He is such a delight to read, sarcastic, fun, arrogant as all hell, but so protective and supportive of the persons he holds dear and loves. I liked Will, but his hot and cold routine as he made up his mind got old very fast, especially when it hurt my lovely Patrick. Really, when even Will's mom is in Patrick's corner, and if you've read the series, you know how big that is, and he keeps at it, well, I just wanted to slap him silly. Don't get me wrong, I loved them together, but I loved Patrick a whole lot more. So even if I'm happy they got their HEA, I would've liked it if Patrick hadn't had to go through all he did in this book to get it.
Anyway, even with that, I have to thank both Leta and Alice for such a fantastic read. From book 1 until this last one, the collaboration has been flawless and all the characters (but Ryan) were amazing and made the story come alive for me.
Rating: 4.5 Stars!!!
MF Top 3
Dirty Sexy Inked / Dirty Sexy Sinner by Carly Phillips and Erika Wilde
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For as much as I loved Dirty Sexy Saint, I think I loved book 2 a whole lot more. It probably was that Katrina and Mason have a lot of backstory together and that I have a penchant for bad boys that can show their vulnerable side and that are also possessive as hell. Whatever it was, I can assure you, you can't go wrong with this book! It was all the title suggests, dirty and sexy, but it was also emotional and I just loved the connection between Mason and Katrina. Yeah, it took Mason a bit, but once he got to the place where he finally saw what had been in front of him the whole time, he gave it his all. And Katrina was a survivor, so strong and loving. It was amazing to see their story unravel in such a fabulous way!
Definitely a must-read!
Rating: 5 Stars!!!
Definitely a must-read!
Rating: 5 Stars!!!
View Full Review here.
I wasn't too sure at first over this surprising turn of events at having a fourth Kincaid brother appear like this. However, Jackson won me over before the first chapter ended and it was just amazing to see how well Tara fit him. Both of them had hard pasts and perhaps that made them bond so quickly, but it never felt forced, it was just like it was meant to be. Their chemistry was unbelievable and the sex scenes (and OMG, the dirty talk and texts!) were scorching hot. To be perfectly honest, I didn't think there was going to be a couple I loved as much as Mason and Katrina, but Tara and Jackson are tied up with them now in first place.
All in all, this was a fantastic addition to the series! Enthralling, sexy as all hell, emotional, fun and with some angst to balance it all out. Definitely a must-read!
Rating: 5 Stars!!!
Hooker by Brooke Blaine
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View Full Review here.
I absolutely adored this book! I don't read all that many MF stories any longer, but after reading Licked and falling in love with Brooke Blaine's writing, I just couldn't pass this up and I'm so glad I didn't. While I loved Ryleigh and Hunter, I think Nate and Shayne are my favorite couple so far! Shayne is so relatable. Kind of shy and down-to-earth, but sassy, and she gets all rambly when she's nervous. And Nate? He was mature beyond his age, sweet, persistent and so sexy. He pursued Shayne relentlessly without seeming creepy, and was so perfect for her.
If you're looking for a very fun, sexy as hell and emotional (I have to say, Brooke did make me cry quite a bit at a point in the story) book, look no further, this would be perfect for you!
Rating: 5 Stars!!!
I absolutely adored this book! I don't read all that many MF stories any longer, but after reading Licked and falling in love with Brooke Blaine's writing, I just couldn't pass this up and I'm so glad I didn't. While I loved Ryleigh and Hunter, I think Nate and Shayne are my favorite couple so far! Shayne is so relatable. Kind of shy and down-to-earth, but sassy, and she gets all rambly when she's nervous. And Nate? He was mature beyond his age, sweet, persistent and so sexy. He pursued Shayne relentlessly without seeming creepy, and was so perfect for her.
If you're looking for a very fun, sexy as hell and emotional (I have to say, Brooke did make me cry quite a bit at a point in the story) book, look no further, this would be perfect for you!
Rating: 5 Stars!!!
Steadfast by Sarina Bowen
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I don't know how many times my heart broke for Jude while I read Steadfast. But at the same time, I was so proud of him for wanting to stay clean, both because of his guilt and because of his strength and love for Sophie and do all he could to become a better man. He was so strong and I adored the way he treated Sophie.
Sarina outdid herself with this book, not only was it obvious that she did extensive research on drug addiction and recovery, but she also wrote it all in a very sensitive manner.
This book had it all, romance, friendship and a very good, suspense-filled mystery with quite a few twists. It was well-written, fast-paced and very plot-driven. And while I adored Bittersweet, I think Steadfast is my favorite of the two. Very recommendable!
Rating: 5 Stars!!!
I don't know how many times my heart broke for Jude while I read Steadfast. But at the same time, I was so proud of him for wanting to stay clean, both because of his guilt and because of his strength and love for Sophie and do all he could to become a better man. He was so strong and I adored the way he treated Sophie.
Sarina outdid herself with this book, not only was it obvious that she did extensive research on drug addiction and recovery, but she also wrote it all in a very sensitive manner.
This book had it all, romance, friendship and a very good, suspense-filled mystery with quite a few twists. It was well-written, fast-paced and very plot-driven. And while I adored Bittersweet, I think Steadfast is my favorite of the two. Very recommendable!
Rating: 5 Stars!!!
I'm giving away two books (1 book each) from my list of Top Choices to two commenters on this post. Please leave your e-mail address in your comment and what book would like.
You have until Tuesday, January 3rd, 2017, around 8pm CST to enter.
Good luck and Happy New Year!
Mari
My favorites are Beyond the Sea by Keira Andrews and His Premier by Jessie G.
ReplyDeleteHappy New Year.
tankie44 at gmail dot com
I enjoyed Charles' other books and would love to read the one above.
ReplyDeletedevbby236 at gmail dot com
I'd love to read The Places We Say Goodbye by Jordan Taylor. Thanks for the chance at your giveaway.
ReplyDeleteardent(dot)ereader(at)gmail(dot)com
Thank you for the great list. I found some new books on it. I think Tied to Trouble by Megan Erickson wpuld be great to read. She is a new author for me. Thank you for the chance.
ReplyDeleteJczlapin@gmail.com
aced by ella frank and A Cowboy's Home by RJ Scott..thanks for the chance
ReplyDeletejmarinich33 at aol dot com
I'd like to read Aced/Locked (PresLocke series) by Ella Frank and Brooke Blaine I haven't read their books before.
ReplyDeleteShirleyAnn(at)speakman40(dot)freeserve(dot)co(dot)uk
I I haven't read many MF books in recent years so I've added those on your list to my wishlist. From your list I love to give Private Truths by C.B. Lewis and Behind Iron Lace by Mercy Celeste a read.
ReplyDeletehumhumbum AT yahoo DOT com
For Never and Always is the book I would choose. It sounds really good. Thanks for the chance and for sharing your list.
ReplyDeleteHappy New Year!
jen(dot)f(at)mac(dot)com
I'd love to read A Second Harvest by Eli Easton
ReplyDeletelegacylandlisa(at)gmail(dot)com
So many new ones I haven't read! Thanks for the list. My choice would be Connection Error by Annabeth Albert. I haven't read the series but your comments have made me check out the other books too. :) Happy New Year!
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