Alpha Males, Insta-Love, Angst and Weddings
921643
This story had a lot of Alpha Males, Insta-Love, Angst and Weddings. There are several stories intertwined, it was easy to become lost in the dialogue. The main story centers around Sarah and Matt.  Sarah has just ended a bad relationship and falls into Matt's arms. Matt knew Sarah was the one, so he put aside his playboy image and became a one woman man.

Sarah has a secret she's keeping from her friends and family. She's embarrassed and doesn't want her friends and family to know that she was weak (this is of course in her opinion). The story takes a dark and serious tone but only for a minute. It quickly returns for more Insta-Love and quickly a Insta-Marriage or two. It doesn't take long for more angst and another marriage. There's also a crazy ex in the mix that wreaks havoc on Sarah and company.

The story centers around Sarah and Matt but there was a secondary story line that revolves around Jace and Ali. The characters are tightly entangled and at times I felt their relationships overshadowed each other. It was easy to lose focus on the story line. I'm not a fan of Sarah, she had a secret that put herself and her friends in danger. She rather not be embarrassed then to keep her friends and family safe. The story is filled with marriages, angst and alpha males who fall in love hard and quick. There's a lot of story in Strumming Me, it will definitely keep you on your toes. 3 Stars.
3804579
I love Alpha male stories. I found it amazing how the author was able to show the soft side yet able to keep Travis a very alpha male. Seriously a man who will break a guys nose and arm without blinking after the jerk assaulted his girl and spend 3 days taking care of his girl because she got really bad menstrual cramps. Yayyyy.  This may not be for everyone considering she is still in high school and most of the time immature but that made this story more believable even though shes legal (18) and he is 26, (not a dirty old man) I felt he always treated her with respect and so did his crew. Sex scenes were raw and hot. A few minor editing errors but HEY have you seen some of my reviews? Yeah so Im not going to cast any stones here.
827658
What is it with men in suits? Especially when they are as simple and down to earth as they come but loaded with billions!

Yes, this is another billionaire romance. Matt has a rough past too, but not the 'Fifty Shades' kind of rough - though there are some fifty shades kinda thing in this book as well that kept things steamy.

Ari also had a rough childhood, and suffered through loss and had to grow up without a family around her. What I liked about her was that she was strong and fearless and had a pretty good heart.

Our hero and heroine had a lot in common, and the chemistry between them are as hot as they are in the sheets. They also had their fun moments, and adorable ones especially with Noah. You just can't fault a single sexy dad - your ovaries will sing! :D And can I just say that I commend the hero because he knew that he 'had no rights until he groveled and begged.'

I'm a pretty big fan of Bella Andre's books. And I cannot believe I missed this series since the first book! Yes, ladies and gentlemen, this is a part of a series of standalone's. Once again, I started with the last book in the series, now I have to back track.

Fearless in Love is about family, friendship, and love. Captivating and heart-wrenching, it will leave you with a mix of emotions right from the start.



5 captivating stars
4628778
Possibilities by T.A. Chase -- 5 stars

A sweet story that brings together two men that were not looking for a relationship, but were open to the possibility once it presented itself. Although short in length, the story had plenty of content. I found the characters intriguing and their initial connection present. The author did a great job of bringing those elements and much more to the page. I wouldn't mind reading more about these guys in the future.

Lonely Hearts and Yellow Ribbons by Stephani Hecht -- 3 stars

This story drew me in from the very beginning. I especially enjoyed how the author allowed the reader to see how deeply connected Aden and Ross truly were. Both men were struggling with issues that in one way or another affected their relationship and the obstacles they were facing felt real, which I appreciated.

However, the story ended abruptly and without any clear resolution for the characters the story felt incomplete for me. I guess it served the title well though since Aden was left with a lonely heart and the yellow ribbons.

Venetian Skies by Morticia Knight -- 2 stars

This was one of my least favorite stories in the collection due to too many details and descriptions and not enough of the romance between Chris and Brandon. As a second chance story it had the opportunity of being a sweet and romantic story, but for me the romance got lost among everything else.

Search and Rescue by Jenna Byrnes -- 5 stars

I admit, I was about ready to move on from this story within the first few scenes. Drake was not an easy man to like and those first scenes with Matthew really did not win me over. But...*sigh* Matthew and Drake together? Explosive! I loved it. Especially when underneath all that arrogance, Drake was a passionate and considerate man who only wanted what was best for Matthew. I enjoyed Matthew and Drake's conflicted emotions and how the author went about bringing it all together. I wouldn't mind reading more about these two--a couple of love scenes or some heated arguments that ended with make up sex, I'm not picky.

Live for the Day by Sarah Masters -- 5 stars

Michael and Steven have been friends since childhood. Both have been keeping their feelings for the other a secret, but after a near fatal accident Steven doesn't want to hide his emotions. He only hopes Michael feels the same way.

I enjoyed this friends to lovers romance very much, especially since everything about Michael and Steven felt real. I got to see how deeply they cared for each other as friends and how much they longed to be more than that. Although short in length, the author allowed the reader to get to know Michael and Steven as friends while bringing to the page their connection and later on their chemistry. I loved it!

Lifetime Hitch by Megan Slayer--3 stars

Hmmm...I have mixed feelings about this one. On the one hand, I enjoyed the concept and the character development as the story progressed but on the other hand there was something there that didn't work for me. Maybe it was the writing, the secondary characters or the pace--really I can't pinpoint it. However, the story was good with Hunter and Ryder finally coming together.

All in all, a great collection of military themed stories
566203
Axel by Harper Sloan is filled with testosterone and the fiercest of the alpha males.  Theres a new queen of the alphas taking the throne and her name is Harper Sloan.  Axel, Maddox, Greg, Coop, and Beck have completely dominated; and the bikers, fighters, cowboys, and masters will bow down to these five Marines who have taken the spotlight.

When the prologue catches me by complete surprise and captivates my every attention with shock and abomination, I know Im in for a bumpy ride.  That is exactly what Axel did for me.  I was appalled during the prologue, feeling the tears well up in the first chapter, and on the edge of my seat throughout much of the rest of the book.  Luckily for me, the author infused humor throughout this amazing book to lighten the heavy just a bit.

There are so many facets to this story, and the author had me hook, line, and sinker in every one of them.  The closeness that grew among these strong Marines and Izzy was heartwarming.  My heart shattered for Axel when he learned the truth about Izzys past.  There is so much depth and a.realness to this story as we get a glimpse into the lives and history of each character.  The anger, the passion, the heartbreak, the laughter (especially at Sway).  The gammet of emotions that I experienced were plenty as I worked my way through the story of Axel and Izzy.  Harper Sloan has written a beautiful beginning to a series that is filled with romance, action, and second chances.  While this is a series, there is no cliffhanger.  I can easily picture the Corps Security Series  as becoming one of my favorite series and my go-to series for an alpha fix.  I give a hardy recommendation for this strong debut by Harper Sloan to all those who love a strong alphaor five of themfrom whom you cant help but want more.
1955500
Maybe I do...but then again maybe I don't that is the question and what seems to be the mantra running through the minds of Charlotte and Dean, the main couple, in this one, my fellow romance book loving friends. Both become conflicted as they struggle with attraction they have kept contained the last couple of years with harmless back and forth, flirty banter/winks every time they meet. Dean is eleven years older, thinks hes wise enough to know he isn't what Charlotte needs, and is all but married to his business. Besides considering what happened with his former wife, he assumes hes just not meant to be the family man hes always wanted to be.

Charlotte plans to never put another engagement ring on her finger again, folks. Sure, shell sign up for the companionship and even children some day but she doesnt believe wedding vows deliver on their promise of a HEA. Yeah, thats a rather inconvenient confession since shes in the wedding photography business. She cant help but push those thoughts aside though whenever she lays eyes or hands on Dean, owner of a popular wedding venue she uses. Shes had a crush on him for years and is more than ready to make her move to see if he feels the same.

With lots of relationship angst, we journey with these destined to be together knuckleheads but not without some frustrating What were you thinking? moments that clearly show age doesnt always bring wisdom, folks.

I loved Charlottes strong character and resilience. She somehow always reached deep and was the better person when dealing with those who had wronged her. A trait that also seemed to be carried by Dean, as well.

There is some OW/OM drama in the form of exs that I could have lived without, but thats just my personal preference. Neither main character are in any way shape or form tempted to go back with their former lovers at any time in this storyline. For that, I am very thankful, though one of them gets hurt when a crisis hits and they are excluded, left to feel like an outsider, while the ex is not.

Heres to hoping this review has been helpful in deciding if maybe you do want to give this series a try.  I found the writing flowed, and I stayed completely engaged. By the way, you might want to check out this authors Hearts and Crafts series, as well. Book 1 - Win Me Over and Book 2 - Draw Me Close were both very enjoyable for this NetGalley reviewer.

Title: Maybe I Do, Series: Whiskey and Weddings (Book 1), Author: Nicole McLaughlin, Pages: 300, stand-alone but part of a series, resilient/sweet/gorgeous heroine, older good guy hero who takes awhile to come to his senses, some very steamy scenes, accurate synopsis.

Book 1 - Maybe I Do, 8/29/17, Pages: 300 (Charlotte & Dean)
Book 2 - Maybe This Time, 2/27/18, Pages: 300

(I received a free advanced reader copy provided via NetGalley in exchange for a fair review. No type of compensation was given to this reviewer. There is no relationship/affiliation between the reviewer and the author/publisher/NetGalley.)
2471609
Irony and romance take the wheel in the Billionaire's Sexy Rival.  William, hands down is my favorite Jameson brother.  Rough around the edges with a chocolate covered center at the heart of this alpha male.  Always in control, William meets his match in eccentric Poppy.  She pushes his buttons and challenges his heart with her flower child personality and business smarts.  Will the beast change his ways for beautiful surprise?  Ms. North's eclectic style and emotion packed stories continue to delight and impress this reader.
1338277
What can I say I like reading about sexy alpha males and sports. A solid foresters for this. If would have been a five but there were sustained parts that was missing. In some of the chapters it moved from one day to several days out and I felt like important things were missed due to that. The characters were a mixture of emotions, from hot to cold, then strong to major anxiety attacks. Gage was such an intense man with so many secrets. I would have liked to know more about him but I see the author has something from his POV...I'm sure that will fill in the missing parts. There was also some inconsistency in the spelling of names for Regan from Rea to Rae. A bit more editing and it would have been perfect. Overall it was an enjoyable read that will have your emotions going all over the place.
2674644
A marriage of convenience is one of my favorite tropes! Bruno and Addie are about as different as you can imagine. A strong alpha male and a social activist, makes for some enjoyable and interesting reading. Bruno's dealing with a father who's dying, his last wish he wants to fulfill and Addie is trying to help a native Brazilian Tribe remain on the land owned by Bruno. Hot sexual chemistry, pasts they both want to keep secret and a growing attraction. A great read,I'm hoping to see this author bring more books to us with secondary characters from this book
3876164
I have enjoyed quite a few of these Year of Weddings novellas that have released in the past two years. There are a handful that have become favorite stories, and this is definitely one of them.

The author did a great job of creating two main characters that I connected with immediately upon meeting them in the story. The fact that they knew each other in high school and the whole back story involving the way Mac was treated in high school tugged at my heart.

The chemistry between Mac and Ethan was just perfect and the additional love story between Hollis and Connor added even more depth to the story. The truth that people can change over time was another nice theme in the book.

I would have loved for this book to go on even a little bit longer, maybe with an epilogue for the happy couple. However, I was still very happy with the happily-ever-after that I came away with.

I received a complimentary copy of this book. These opinions are my own.
1853623
I loved this book, it was short, but if you love happily ever afters and hot alpha males then this is your book.
3934920
Big c*ck.  Big rock. Big Trouble. Big Choices.

Spencer Holiday has a big problem. He kind of, sort of, just announced he was engaged to improve his image and help his Dad look favorable for a business deal. But there is one little hiccup....he does not even have a girlfriend. So he enlists the help of his best friend and business partner, Charlotte. They help each other all the time. Faking it for a week or so should be no problem...right?!

This is told in Spencer's unfiltered, cocky point of view. But I loved that even though he is arrogant and sure of himself, he also is a gentleman in his own way and has a good heart. He is a playboy who respects women, who understands women, and values his family and friends. But he also has sex on the brain and is a dirty talker and speaks in sexual innuendo. I loved his internal monologues and silent freak outs. He's kind of adorable and honorable, but also blunt, bold, and dirty-mouthed. The best of both worlds. He's the perfect mix of naughty and nice and  hot and sweet.

Soon they are putting on a show of a faithful couple. They are learning more intimate details and getting a bit more physical than they ever have...and they like it. What happens when your friend feels too good, looks too good, and kisses the hell out of you?

A proposition, set rules, and unexpected seduction lead to mixed messages, hidden wants, and miscommunication . Holy hotness at the untapped passion, need, and attraction. But it also brings out confusion, fear, hurt, and omissions.

I enjoyed being in Spencer's head. His unpolished thoughts and monologues, his dirty talking, and alpha ways. But he was sweet, honorable, protective and vulnerable too. I totally fell for him and had a girl crush on Charlotte too. She was sassy, sweet, supportive and perfect for him, but she was also scared of rejection. They were so fun together, had such a connection, and strong friendship, but had such hot chemistry too. I loved their confusion, vulnerability, and cluelessness at times. They not only had to deal with their own personal issues and each other's expectations and fears, but also had to keep up with the lies they were telling. It just seemed to get more and more complicated.

This was funny, sweet, sexy, romantic, emotional, and just plain hot! I was thoroughly engaged, sucked into the story, and I could not wait to find out how they would navigate everything. I laughed, got tense, wanted to smack people, fanned myself, swooned, and just had such a big goofy smile on my face for so much of it.

I loved getting two epilogues. I enjoyed his sister Harper and his charismatic friend Nick Hammer, Nick Hammer, Mister Orgasm. Can't wait to uncover more about him...
3329731
Riley Gordan has been in love with Conor Flemming for 12 years and now hes so scared that hes going to lose him. Both Riley and Conor have their own businesses Riley is an event planner whilst Conor is a baker, they specialise in LGBTQ weddings and other events. Thats not to say they only cater to LGBTQ events because they dont. For the last 12 months or more their businesses have gotten progressively busier and they have drifted apart without Riley realising it. Of course it doesnt help that Brian the young man Riley employed as his PA has been actively keeping them apart with Riley being completely oblivious to his machinations.
It takes a sound talking to from Conors second in command Patricia for Riley to get clued into whats been happening right under his nose but now that hes aware hes not about to stand by and let some young man on the prowl destroy his relationship. Riley has it out with Brian and fires him on the spot, then sets out to do Whatever It Takes to win back the man he loves.
Conor has been feeling more and more alienated from Riley in the last several months ad he doesnt know what to do about it. Between Brian blocking him from even entering Rileys office and him letting slip that he and Riley are very close but he cant confront Riley because then it really will be over. Then everything changes, he starts getting text messages from Riley, he even has a text that says Riley wants him to come home as hes been sleeping at the office rather than face an empty house and bed every night. Conor is completely bewildered by whats happening but when he realises Riley isn't breaking up with him hes ready to get on-board with anything thats going to bring Riley back to him.
It doesnt happen overnight, it takes a lot of love, dedication and determination but both Riley and Conor have far too much history to give up without a fight. Whatever It Takes is a beautiful love story about two mature men who come to a crossroads in their relationship and they make the decision to not only save their relationship but make it better!
4329845
A poignant bittersweet tale of how denying those we love hurts ourselves most of all.  Tristan and his best friend Chris are young pack males returning home after years away at college.  But the home they return to isn't the home they left.  Unruly pack members attacking unsuspecting humans and a blas response from the alpha has Tristan unintentionally challenging.  Now hes stuck with a pack on the brink of bankruptcy both morally and financially.  In a bid to re-establish order and peace Tristan takes an impromptu trip to interview a possible pack omega.  What he walks into is a bidding war for an omega of another species.  What he comes home with is a submissive tiger.

Abandoned at a young age, Jake has been raised by a cruel and irresponsible father.  Hes been forced to present himself as a dominant in order to protect the omega pride mate he loves.  After the violence that ensues when his father attempts to sell his best friend, Jake is approached by Tristan.  Tristan recognizes he is a submissive and offers him a place in his pack.  Knowing that the man he loves has mated another Jake decides its time to leave.

Passions, wants and needs simmer between them until one fateful night a few too many drinks sees Tristan accidentally mating Jake.  Immediately he sets out to deny his mating.  Homophobic attitudes have Tristan believing his pack will never accept a gay alpha.  In his untenable position of choosing between pack and mate he hurts the one he loves.  Jake is such a loveable man and I hurt with him each time Tristan denied him.  I wanted to curse Tristan and beat him about the head and yet I understood him as well.  Watching these two walk the lonely road away from each other and back had me in tears.  I really loved this story and its ability to make love universal no matter the genders and I would highly recommend it to anyone who loves a story that really pulls at the heartstrings.

A review copy was provided in exchange for an honest review.
1734377
I love where they ended up within the Marshalls. I got all the feels with the love and care they have for one another. I mean weve read it and felt it throughout, but they just made me all hearty eyed for them even more. I looooved the wedding!
Even though I did feel like some parts pulled away from the story of the guys. This is a good closure for Ian & Miros part in the series.
And I cant wait to read the spin offs!
3345210
We get to follow up with the three Billionaire Bachelors, Asher, Gage, and Matt (Well,they are all taken now so cannot really be considered bachelors anymore) during important steps in their lives.

We have one bridezilla and one bridegroom trying to hold it together so they can go have fun on their honeymoon. A woman in labor and her nervous hubby trying to support her. A man looking towards the future with his girlfriend who still has some insecurities.

We get all of their points of view: Archer, Ivy, Gage, Marina, Matt, and Brynn. So we get to see how they are all feeling at various times and see their inner struggles as well as their happiness.

It is fun seeing how these couples have progressed and what is going in in their lives. These three men were the quintessential rich, cocky bachelors and their women turned their lives around and made them emotional "p*ssies" (Archer's word not mine). They have come a long way from the closed off playboys we first met. They met their matches in every way. Their million dollar bet is finally settled. But all in all I think they really all won.

This was a short wrap up novella of all three couples, but fans of the series will enjoy spending more time with them and seeing how it all plays out. It was sweet, funny, sexy, and of course features three swoony men.

I was gifted a copy in exchange for an honest review.
294334
Continuing in this unbelievably great series where 4 very different groomsmen and 4 even crazy different bridesmaid find love in the midst of their friends wedding Tessa Bailey made me swoon over the SWAT officer and relate to the happy-go lucky sorority girl.
Can I safely say that writing a straight up alpha male is Tessa Bailey's expertise?? Because  if anyone can write one to perfection it's her. Reed is the no flowers and romance type of guy and really only looking at Julie for one thing. At least that's how it starts off anyways. As for Julie, well she's the good girl trying to please everyone. Only she's now looking to please herself for a while in the arms of the sexy SWAT officer. At least thats how it starts off. Soon these two begin to realize that, although they were only looking for a week of physical fun , they actually got so much more.