The Villian - LJ Shen

Ruminations of an Insomniac..

You know what I think my favourite part of LJ Shen books is? I could say the robust characters. I may note the steam that is off the charts. The intricate details warrant mention. But more than all that, the quick wit and verbal sparring that float seamlessly through the dialogue? That's my favourite part.

Persephone Penrose appears to the text book definition of the pre-k teacher she is. Overshadowed and underseen because of an exuberant sibling. But the girl is more than meets the eye. She is brimming with fire, matching Cillian turn for turn. And no one can walk through fire quite like Hades. He thrives when surrounded by it. 

"There were twenty-seven emotions? That seemed completely unmanageable." - Cillian Fitzpatrick 

On the surface, they couldn't be more different. His icy demeanor and her undeniable warmth should, theoretically clash like titans. But her fire scorches through him, burning down the barriers he had worked so hard to construct. The moment I turned the final page, I wanted to start it over, just to stay submerged in their world, in their story for a while longer. Once again, LJ Shen bewitched me. 

Rating:

Book Boyfriend: 10/10 (Even LJ Shen's villainous men shatter me) 

Flow: 10/10

Plot: 10/10 

Overall: 10/10

Currently available on Kindle (and Kindle Unlimited).

Synopsis:

Cruel. Coldblooded. Hades in a Brioni suit.

Cillian Fitzpatrick has been dubbed every wicked thing on planet earth.
To the media, he is The Villain.
To me, he is the man who (reluctantly) saved my life.
Now I need him to do me another, small solid.
Bail me out of the mess my husband got me into.
What’s a hundred grand to one of the wealthiest men in America, anyway?
Only Cillian doesn’t hand out free favors.
The price for the money, it turns out, is my freedom.
Now I’m the eldest Fitzpatrick brother’s little toy.
To play, to mold, to break.
Too bad Cillian forgot one, tiny detail.
Persephone wasn’t only the goddess of spring; she was also the queen of death.
He thinks I’ll buckle under the weight of his mind games.
He is about to find out the most lethal poison is also the sweetest.

The Not-Outcast - Tijan

Ruminations of an Insomniac..

I will admit, this one threw me at first. While I read the beginning of the book, I found myself questioning, “This is Tijan, right?” I’ve been a fan of her work for a long time now, so I put my trust in her as an author and kept reading. And I’m so beyond glad that I did. The writing style in the very beginning is intentional and absolutely necessary. I won’t tell you why, but it 100% aides in painting an accurate picture in this story.

Cheyenne is complex. There is no other way to put it. She is a beautiful creature, at every level of her being. And the girl barely realizes it. She is a forged steel blade. Stunning, but dangerous if not handled with care. Then he skates into her life, or back in I should say, and both of their existences shift. Cut may be an athlete; however he is anything but the stereotype. This giant man brought me to tears, baring his soul. The dynamic of the two of them made me wish for more people in the world to find a love like that. A love that isn’t all sunshine, but one that is real and raw. One that pushes and pulls but at the end of the day, the effort and understanding is what will always stand out.

“But damn, I just wanted to be loved. And he was here. And he had stayed.” - Cheyenne

Stars align in this second chance (sort of?) sports romance. Tijan, once again, amazed me with this one. The depth of the prose and the vivid dynamic characters are everything. She challenged & captivated me with her words. And because of how hard and deep I fell in love, my personal top ten this year would be absolutely incomplete without The Not Outcast.

Rating:

Book boyfriend: 10/10
Flow: 10/10
Plot: 10/10 
Overall: 10/10

Currently available on Kindle (and Kindle Unlimited).

Synopsis:

Cutler Ryder was everything I wasn't.

He was the hockey star. I was an outcast.
He was best friends with my stepbrother, that same stepbrother who hated me.
His two parents loved him. My mom was a junkie. My dad barely knew me.

Years passed.
I got my life together.
Cut went onto NHL stardom.

Then there was a text.
I was drinking.
There was a party.
Cut was there...

I loved Cutler Ryder since the first moment I saw him.
The only problem? He never knew I existed.

Kiss To Forget - Anna B. Doe

Ruminations of an Insomniac.. 

A Kiss to Forget was absolutely nothing like I was expecting. It was so much more. It’s the kind of story you read when you need to lose yourself for a little while. At least that’s how it felt to me. Anna B. Doe broke my heart, hard. But I promise, there was profound beauty in the breaking.

Sometimes things need to be broken, so they can be stronger from mending. And that, I believe, is the case for Yasmin and Nixon. They are both strong and stubborn. She’s serious but soft. The only thing he seems to be serious about is a good time (and maybe football). That is, until light is shed on his truth. In that light, his character is just as vast and complicated as hers.

"She's not fighting her storm, she's become it. Beautiful in unleashed anger." - Nixon Cole

Their story made my heart ache, for so many reasons. But it was also filled with notes of hope and growth. Change and acceptance, in so many different avenues, were absolutely catalysts in this book. I will read this one again, guaranteed. Probably when I need to be reminded that people are usually more than they seem at face value. But not just then. Because my heart has broken wide open for a hurricane of a girl and a boy who learns to dance in the rain. And I know I won’t be able to leave them for long.

Rating:

Book Boyfriend: 9/10 
Flow: 9/10
Plot: 10/10 

Overall: 9.5/10

Currently available on Kindle (and Kindle Unlimited).

Synopsis:

Something about her drew him in from the start.

Yasmin Hernandez—4.0 student, hard worker, volunteer. Starting Blairwood University is her chance at a new beginning. It doesn’t matter that it’s all a lie, does it?

Nixon Cole has it all—money, good looks, charm and a national championship win to wrap it all up. But there is more hiding behind his charming smile than he lets on.

Until he found out the secret she’s been hiding.

Nixon has had a thing for Yasmin from the moment they met, but she isn’t about to let another player near her heart. When a chance encounter reveals his secret, Yasmin will realize they have more in common than either of them thought.

Kiss by kiss they’ll forget reality. Will it be enough to save them, or will it be the cause of a broken heart?

 

Break Me - Meagan Brandy

Ruminations of an Insomniac.. 

Royce Brayshaw stole my heart, as a secondary character in his brother's stories. But his story? Tore it out, stomped on it, ran it over a couple times for good measure, then kissed it better and handed it back to me wrapped in the most exquisite bow. The tale of how the last (but definitely not least) Brayshaw brother found love absolutely slayed me. And is definitely one of my top 3 of 2020! 

“He wants to love, but he’s not capable of loving lightly. It’s not in his nature. He’s explosive, and he knows it, but you know that, too.” - Raven Brayshaw

Royce has been my favourite for a long time, that's no secret. The funny playboy, with a heart full of worries and secrets. But nothing could have prepared me to witness everything he is in this book. And Brielle is literally the only one who could have given us all these new facets of him. A legitimate burst of light, with a unique ability to break down his stoic walls. 

"Help me fly, ‘cause this lost boy is on his way down, baby girl...” - Royce Brayshaw 

The way Meagan wrote the dynamic of these two is almost poetic. Their story is an emotional hurricane. One that had the power to evoke boisterous laughter and bring me to tears, on several occasions. It was a profound honour to step into their world once again and watch as these two polar opposites unraveled each other. Because what they are, re-twined together, is nothing short of extraordinary. 

Rating:

Book Boyfriend: 15/10 (what can I say, he's my favourite) 

Flow: 10/10

Plot: 10/10 

Overall: 10/10

______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Ramblings of a Bookworm..

I've spent the past 24 hours processing and still have a bit of a book-hangover after finishing this one, so bear with me.

Royce captured my heart and soul from the very beginning of this series and I've been anxiously awaiting his book, and let me tell you - it was worth the wait. Diving into his mind after only witnessing the facade he puts on externally was truly an experience, and just like Pam, Break Me is in my top 3 reads of 2020.

       "...I never claimed to be the sane one, that's Captain. Maddoc is the angry alpha, and me, I'm the fuckin' wild one." - Royce Brayshaw

We've known Royce as the wild child, the party animal, the one who jokes at inappropriate times to lighten the situation, but he is so much more than that. A darkness that tugs on your heartstrings and makes you want to hug him or slap him several times throughout. And then comes Brielle...

       "I'm so sick of good and I don't want calm. I want a hurricane." - Brielle Bishop

The brightest star in the darkest night, and a goodness that could melt even the coldest of hearts, she is a force to be reckoned with. I don't think any other character would have been a good enough match for out boy. Wise beyond her years, and the patience of a damn saint, she is the yin to his yang, no matter how hard he tries to deny it.

Rating:

Book Boyfriend: 10/10

Flow: 10/10

Plot: 10/10 

Overall: 10/10

Currently available on Kindle (and Kindle Unlimited).

Synopsis:

I had a plan, and it was solid. 

Track down what was hidden away and take pleasure in toying with it. Toying with her. 

It worked like a charm. Until it didn’t. 

Turned out, the feisty little thing I found was far from what I hoped for. She was different from all I knew and more than I expected. She was light, and I’m the bastard who led her into darkness. But this girl... she followed with a smile. 

I told her I break pretty things. 

She asked me to promise.

The Grove Series - A.R. Breck

Ruminations of an Insomniac..

I have to start this review with a trigger warning of sorts.. The author does include trigger warnings in the synopsis of both books (which can be found at the very bottom of this review). 

Reapers and Roses (Book 1)

A.R. Breck seriously took me off guard with this one.. A story, seemingly poised to be another standard enemies to lovers high school romance, took on a life of it's own before my eyes. She hits raw marks and dives into deep issues, giving a voice to silent victims. Sure, there are trope-y elements. But she fluidly blends them with hard hitting realities. The one that stood out to me most, weaving its way through chapter after chapter, was the stark difference between life above and below the poverty line. 

Easton and Rose are the most unlikely of pairs, making their clash feel of epic proportions. They have counteracting determination, and in several places I wasn't sure if they'd have a HEA or actually kill each other. They are fire and ice, Superman and kryptonite. 

"Because I'll keep you afloat. I'll save you, little Rose. Just like I've been saving you since day one." - Easton Malone

The thing is, fire melts ice. Making it seem like a completely different substance. And kryptonite? While most would argue that it is Superman's greatest weakness, it's also the thing that essentially makes him equal. His heart ties him to humanity, but the kryptonite brings him down from his pedestal, making him human. And if anyone can tame a Reaper, a Rose growing through adversity just might do the trick.

Thorn in the Dark (Book 2)

Fair warning, the cliffhanger that Book one left off on was outright brutal. I'm super thankful I waited until both were released to read this duet, because not knowing would have killed me. But now, I have all the answers!

Book two picks up, exactly where the first left off. I'm talking, the same moment. With Rose immersed in an unimaginable struggle, and Easton swooping in as her protector. This half of the story is brimming with even more hard reality hits. It's a delicately crafted image of strength and support, pulling one out of darkness. But also serves as a heartbreaking nod to addiction, duty, and loss. Saturated with deep-seated notes of coping before healing, too. 

“I bring the darkness, and you, Rose, you’re my ride or die. I was so lost in the unknown, and you woke me up. I ran right into your sharp edges, and you woke me the fuck up. I always thought no matter what blew in our path, we would conquer it. Is this where it ends? Is this where we end?” - Easton Malone

The journey Rose and Easton took me on was one I didn't expect. I found myself wading through frustration at their dynamic. I sat with tears running down my face as character arcs peaked, and realization hit. I held my breath as broken souls spoke words they never imagined they would utter. Throughout these pages, I wanted to wrap each person in a hug. And give them a snack. Because that's what moms do when things go wrong. And, much like Disney princesses, it seemed to me every one of them are in desperate need of a decent mother figure. Alas, I imagine their story would be different if that was the case. And I don't think I would change it (most of it - I still haven't recovered from that one part. With the transport. You'll know the one..) for anything. 

I invite you, to dive into the darkness of Easton and Rose's world for a while. Don't say I didn't warn you.. It's graphic, and it's brutal. But it's so worth it. 

Rating:

Book Boyfriend: 8/10 (guy's got some serious damn issues) 

Flow: 9/10 

Plot: 9/10 (it has all the makings of a 10, but left me questioning some details) 

Overall: 9/10

Currently available on Kindle (and Kindle Unlimited).

Synopsis:

Reapers and Roses 

Rose
When my mom told me we were moving to the Grove, I thought it was a joke.
Our family, one of the wealthiest in Woodbury, moving to a dump like the Grove?
Well, I guess that's what happens when you lose everything.
Now we're shoved into the house the size of a shoebox and I can literally feel the darkness seeping in around me.
But then, I meet someone with a darkness that even I can't compete with.
They call him the Reaper.

Easton
Darkness has consumed me my entire life.
I've known nothing but death and destruction, using my fists to control the beast within me.
Then, after yet another win in the ring, I find my Rose.
A little ball of light, I think.
But no, her eyes hold the familiar darkness that calls to me.
Alone, I live with my demons.
Together, we will conquer them.
Welcome to hell, baby girl.

**Reapers and Roses contains mature themes and triggers that might make some readers uncomfortable. Foul language, criminal activity, drug use, physical and sexual abuse are included in this book.**

Thorn in the Dark

Rose

I thought I had life figured out.

Until I crashed into the brink of tragedy.

That peak in which you teeter on the line of sanity versus insanity.

The moment where you look forward and see darkness, then look over your shoulder and see more darkness.

Pain is probably down either avenue I choose, but which one will keep me intact?

Which one will make me crumble?

How many times can tragedy happen to a person until they break for good?

One, two, three...

Easton

I grew up in darkness.

I thought I knew what It's like to walk through life shrouded in a world without light.

Pain never mattered much, because it's all I've ever known.

She walked into my life like a sharp thorn that I knew would bleed me dry.

I was okay with that, as long it was her that was by my side.

I never realized that the darkness I lived in wasn't dark at all.

I never really knew darkness.

Until tragedy on top of tragedy strikes and I feel like an atomic bomb ready to detonate.

How long will it take?

Three, two, one...

**Thorn in the Dark contains mature themes that might make some readers uncomfortable. Foul language, criminal activity, drug use, physical and sexual abuse are included in this book. Please proceed with caution.**

The B-Side - B. Harmony

Ramblings of a Bookworm..

I have one complaint about B. Harmony's debut novel - there was an ending, and I didn't want it to end. Beautifully written with dynamic characters that made my heart melt, The B-Side is going to become my new staple feel good book.

As a music lover myself, the parallels and the references to music made my heart soar.  I had an incredibly hard time picking just one quote, but finally settled on this one (since my other top choice was about two paragraphs) :

Our lives are an infinite playlist, every moment together is a new song, and it just gets better the longer we listen.

Enough drama to keep you intrigued, enough sweet to give you a cavity, and enough music to make you want to dance, I would (and already have) recommend this novel to everyone I can.

Rating:

Book Boyfriend: 9/10 *for each.. since there's 2.

Flow: 10/10

Plot: 9/10 

Overall: 9/10

Currently available on Kindle (and Kindle Unlimited).

Summary

When I read the roommate wanted ad, I thought my sister was encouraging me to live with an insane person. As it turns out, he isn’t insane, he’s sexy and one hundred percent my type. Living with him will be the ultimate test of my self control.
When the combination of our love of music and my overwhelming need to take care of him meets jealousy, sparks fly. His heart may be damaged, but nothing is beyond repair.
Now all I have to do is convince him that I’m in this for the long haul, not just this moment.

Tyler
I may look like the happy-go-lucky gay guy with a big smile and more punny tees than one person should probably own. But it’s just a shield to protect my heart, the one that has been torn apart by the people who were meant to love me most. The last thing I’m willing to do is risk the tattered shreds on my new - straight- roommate. Sure, he’s sexy as sin and has a love of music that rivals my own, but all that is just grounds for a new friendship. Nothing more. Right?
Yet, every moment we spend together tests a little bit more of my self control. When it turns out my roommate is not as straight as I once thought, I have to decide if this is one playlist I should listen to.
Will we have our own love song, or will this just be another broken-hearted ballad?

The B-Side is a low-angst, roommmates-to-lovers, MM Romance novel. Featuring punny t-shirts for every occasion, killer playlists, meddling family and friends, and a happily-ever-after.

Glass Heart Broken - Lindsey Iler

Ruminations of an Insomniac.. 

The anxiously awaited (but 1000% worth the patience) second half of Marek and Palmer's story is HERE! And Lindsey killed it with this one. I struggled to put this one down when real life things needed to be done. Rife with suspense and just the right amount of darkness, the Glass Heart series are my favourite Lindsey books to date. 

The people and places this book have been painted in my head. It played out like a movie as I read. It saturated my mind. To the point that when Lindsey did what she does, and threw a curve ball in there, I physically gaped at the page. More than once through this novel. Marek and Palmer's story is one that you must simply lose your self in for a while.

“I’ll stop the world for as long as you need, Palmer.” - Marek Hawthorne 

Marek Hawthorne is so beautifully broken. And Palmer Weston , the gold that melts to fill the cracks. Their chemistry is raw and electric. Like lightning striking a beach, it's dangerous and you never know what the result will be. But what comes out of the sand is always beautiful, even when it's startling. 

Rating:

Book Boyfriend: 9/10 

Flow: 10/10

Plot: 10/10 

Overall: 10/10

Currently available on Kindle (and Kindle Unlimited).

Synopsis:

LIES SECRETS MAYHEM

The campus of Glass Heart Academy will never be the same once we're through with it.

Palmer

They tried to break me, but they underestimated my strength. 

When Marek says things aren't always what they seem, I don't want to believe him. Now, I know the dark truth in his words. As a participating player in this wicked game, how do I know who to trust when It seems our past is doomed to repeat itself?

Marek

Cruelty is my love language, and Palmer's ready to make me pay for it. We both know we shouldn't want what's right in front of us. 

Will she accept the dark, broken pieces of me, or will she always watch over her shoulder, waiting for my blade to take pieces of her she doesn't know are exposed? While we try to find ourselves in each other, darkness continues to follow us, setting off a series of events no one is prepared for. What will be the cost of exposing the truth that haunts us?

Royals of Arbon Academy - Tate James & Jaymin Eve

Ruminations of an Insomniac..

This one’s been a long time coming. I wanted to read The Princess Ballot, before it was even released because I had seen a teaser of it in the back of another book. But knowing it was a 3 part story, from Tate James and Jaymin Eve, I held off until the series was complete. You see, I have fallen victim to their epic, wtaf-just-happened cliffhangers before. And with this story, I knew I would need to read it straight through.

Rife with intricacies and page turning details, this trilogy was amazing. From the first page to the last, the story moved. Painting pictures of vivid characters and breathtaking settings in my mind, Tate and Jaymin held me captive. I was enchanted by the charming balance of innocence, bite and strength in Violet, and intrigued by the juxtaposition of her leading men. Tall, dark & scary vs dark honey, in both hue and sweetness, how does a girl pick a favourite?

“If you think I’m about to pat you on the back, like the rest of your sycophants, you have another think coming… You’re not Robinson Crusoe.” Violet Spencer

Roll the trio together with a robust cast of secondary characters, some intense twists, a few secrets, and some truly page turning NA content, this trilogy literally has it all. And no one could have written Violet’s story quite like these two co-authors. Suffice to say, it’s a badass story, wrapped up in a royal purple bow.

Rating:

Book Boyfriend: 9/10 (both 😉) 

Flow: 9/10

Plot: 9/10 

Overall: 9/10

Currently available on Kindle (and Kindle Unlimited).

Synopsis:

You have been chosen.

Those four words change Violet Spencer’s whole life, when against staggering odds, she's selected in the "princess ballot."

Arbon Academy is affectionately known as the school for Royals. Only the rich, powerful, or heir to a throne gain entry ... except for the one scholarship student accepted every five years. It's a worldwide lottery, and one that Violet entered without giving it any serious thought.

But the media got it wrong and Arbon Academy is much more than a simple college for future leaders.

It’s a dark world of politics, intrigue, and dangerous guys who will stop at nothing to get their own way. Despite her best efforts at remaining off the radar, Violet finds herself a pawn between two of the most powerful monarchies in the world.

Prince Rafe of the Switzerlands and Prince Alex of the Australasias are bitter enemies both on the soccer field and in the political arena. Monarchies rule the world now, and every waking breath is a competition for the princes.

Control the ball.

Control the world.

Control Violet.

Whether it's through love or hate, someone will ultimately win.

*This is book one in a dark college romance. It includes a-hole princes, nasty princesses, and one chick who will take none of their sh!t, all the while doing her best to make it out alive. HEA guaranteed. Eventually. 17+.

She's my last chance. 

Those four words echo in Violet Spencer’s mind, tugging at her curiosity even as rage builds within her.

Arbon Academy was supposed to be a bright new start. An opportunity for greatness, and something an orphan girl could only dream of. For a while there, it seemed to be exactly that. 

But Violet's bright future is suddenly looking dim. Arbon Academy and Prince Alex are nothing but a facade. A trap.

In a sinister world of ballgowns and backstabbing, of perfumes and politics, of indulgent parties and illegal sword fights, Violet now faces the biggest challenge of all. Recovering her shattered heart from the prince who crushed it. 

Supported by her new friends, Violet wants to make Alex feel the pain of his betrayal. Prince Rafe wants nothing more than to help make that happen, but things aren't always so straightforward. 

Don't break tradition.

Don't let them know you know. 

Don't lose your heart... again.

These rules will keep Violet alive. But at what cost?

They're waiting for you.

Those four words should have been a warning. They should have filled Violet with dread. But she was so focused on Rafe's disappearance, she forgot.

The resistance was supposed to be fighting for a better world. A group of freedom fighters formed during the Monarch War, pushing back against laws that would see everyone enslaved. For a while there, they gave hope.

But with power comes corruption. The Society has been quietly amassing the strength and backing to become a real threat, and not everyone wants to use that power for good.

In a world torn apart by the death of monarchs, new leaders rise. Violet dives headfirst into the viper's nest with one singular goal: rescue the stolen prince who possesses half her heart.

With the unwavering support of Jordan at her side, Violet knows she can face whatever the resistance throws at them. Even if she was the intended target all along.

Keep your friends close.

Keep your enemies closer.

Never forget the betrayals of the past.

The end of an era is here.

Playing With Fire - LJ Shen

Ramblings of an Insomniac.. 

LJ Shen is at it again. This time with an unsuspecting heroine. And the colliding of tragedies. Playing With Fire tugged on my compassion. Grace and West may look like an unlikely pair on the service but their slow burn drew me in like cider on a cold day.

Grace Shaw is strength and perseverance personified. While her character served as a reminder of long held insecurities, she is a phoenix in her own right. A determined girl, rising from the ashes of her former self. And when West St. Claire bursts into her life, that path becomes harder to deny.

“I’ve walked through fire before, so I know what I’m getting into ... I’m willing to pay the price.” - Grace Shaw

Brooding and self-assured, West is an unlikely hero with a haunted past of his own. Finding solace in Grace's quiet life is just what this boy's soul needed. Their chemistry is startling and their story had me both crying and cheering. LJ Shen hits the nail in the head with this standalone. Telling another story, packed with power and heart.

Rating:

Book Boyfriend: 9/10

Flow: 9/10

Plot: 9/10 

Overall: 9/10

Currently available on Kindle (and Kindle Unlimited).

Synopsis:

A broken boy on the path to destruction A scarred girl without direction A love story carved in secrets, inked with pain and sealed with a lie. Grace Shaw and West St. Claire are artctic opposites. She is the strange girl from the food truck.

He is the mysterious underground fighter who stormed into her sleepy Texan college town on his motorcycle one day, and has been wreaking havoc since. 

She is invisible to the world He is the town's beloved bad boy

She is a reject He is trouble.

When West thrusts himself into Grace's quiet life, she scrambles to figure out If he is her happily ever after or tragic ending But the harder she pushes him away, the more he pulls her out of her shell. 

Grace doesn't know much about anything beyond her town's limits, but she does know this: She is falling in love with the hottest guy in Sheridan U. 

And when you play with fire-you ought to get burned. 

Rich Prick - Tijan

Ruminations of an Insomniac.. 

Tijan never disappoints me. This one was no exception. I'm sure it was painfully obvious, but I've been in a bit of a book slump. Not that there aren't hundreds of new books and thousands of older ones to read. And it wasn't that I had no interest in reading many of them. My tbr list is almost embarrassingly long. I just found myself not clicking with stories, finding connection in books like I usually do. But then Aspen and Blaise came along and I felt a shift again. This story, was just so full of real life humanity. It captured me. 

More than just the pretty girl, hiding in the shadows. Aspen is the personification of a daisy. A perfect balance of delicate and resilient determination. She represented hope for me, as I watched her bloom up through concrete. But she couldn't have done that, is Blaise had been anyone but himself. With his larger than life personality masking an unexpected reality, he was so raw and real to me.

"I turned to look out over the place I’d never considered my home. For some reason, maybe it was a gut feeling, one of those hunches, but I knew. Something was wrong." - Aspen Monson

Tijan has always depicted characters with complicated depth, well. Her attention to detail draws a vivid picture in my mind. Not just of what the characters look like, but who they actually are. And the slow burning chemistry between Aspen and Blaise wouldn't have been done justice without that depth. Another Tijan great for the collection. Read it. It reignited my love for characters and their stories, maybe it will help you in some way too.

Rating:

Book Boyfriend: 8/10

Flow: 10/10

Plot: 9/10 

Overall: 9/10

Currently available on Kindle (and Kindle Unlimited).

Synopsis:

He walked into school on his first day and owned it. I guess that's what happens when you're a prick, rich, and you're best friends with the ruling school's king. 

Also didn't hurt he's drop dead gorgeous.

That's all fine.

I mean, I have nothing to do with them. I'm a loner, invisible, and that's how I wanted it to be. 

I was even proud of it, until I wasn't.

Until I saw a girl kneel before him. Until I couldn't look away. Until he caught me watching. 

His name is Blaise Devroe. 

My name is Aspen Monson. 

He only knew how to get command, and demand attention. I knew how to do everything but that. 

And this is our story.

*Rich Prick is a full 100k standalone. 

Damaged Elite - Waverly Alexander

Ramblings of a Bookworm...

The second installment of the Darlington Elite series shook me just as much as the first; I was definitely not disappointed. This best friends to lovers full of witty banter, suspense, drama... what more could you ask for? I legitimately snort-laughed several times throughout thanks to the heroine, Kennedy's, spunky attitude, as well as the banter between the Elite who are more like brothers than best friends.

"You need to figure out if you're playing on my team or on your own because it's becoming very apparent that we could destroy each other." - Kennedy Prescott

I was hooked from the first line of the prologue. Kennedy and Zach's story was full of ups and downs, with just enough flare to keep you on your toes. The mystery/suspense aspect from the first novel carried over beautifully in this continuation, and I was happy that there wsas still a focus on the whole friend group and what they're all going through whilst not taking away from the main characters.

Waverly has a knack for writing relatable characters, and Kennedy and Zach were certainly no exception. Everything tied together so wonderfully, but I'm definitely keeping my fingers crossed for more; I just can't get enough of the Elite.

Rating

Book Boyfriend: 10/10
Flow: 10/10
Plot: 10/10 

Overall: 10/10

Summary

Zachary Masters

For almost two years, Kennedy has been my best friend—she's laughter and comfort, everything I need but don't deserve. I'm not boyfriend material—not with a past like mine, I'm too much like my father. So I've kept those lines firmly drawn in our relationship. But when the Elite became the target of some shady happenings on campus, I had no choice but to move Kennedy in with me. Now, the closer we get, the more protective I feel, and it scares me. I'll keep her safe though, even if it means agony for me. Even if it means keeping her safe from me.

I'll make her hate me before I hurt her.

Kennedy Prescott

I heard about Zach and his penchant for parties and wild nights long before he stumbled past my dorm room looking for a quick escape from a puck bunny. He’s one of the Darlington Elite—the kings of the campus, and I’m the sarcastic, vegan girl who thought the Elite boys were nothing but arrogant, entitled jerks. And they are, to outsiders. But I’m one of them now, and we look out for each other like a family. Zach and I shouldn’t be best friends, but some forces of nature are unavoidable. He pulled me into his world only to push me away.

If he thinks I’m playing this game, he’s in for a rude awakening.

What Do You Want? - K. Dosal Mclendon

Ramblings of a Bookworm...

I have been anxiously awaiting Liam and Vanessa's story, and I was definitely not disappointed.  Their chemistry is undeniable and I found myself unable to put their story down.  Ever since the first installment of the What Do You trilogy, What Do You See?, I've been in love with Liam - in my mind, he's the perfect mix of tall, dark, and handsome with a heart of gold.  Vanessa and Liam are opposites, yet so similar at the same time.

Rules, restrictions, or any kind of limitations are hard for me to follow.  I like dancing on the verge of trouble

Vanessa's sass, spunk, confidence, and love of books quickly made her one of my top heroines, and I found myself cheering for her throughout the novel whilst simultaneously shaking my head at Liam.  No relationship is ever perfect, and these two were no exception.

K. Dosal McLendon is phenomenal at attention to detail without being overly wordy and taking away from the true meaning of the book, as well as weaving a full spectrum of emotions and feelings, and I could truly see and feel every word, every page, every chapter.  I'm so excited to see what she comes out with next.

Rating

Book Boyfriend: 10/10
Flow: 10/10
Plot: 10/10 

Overall: 10/10


Currently available on Kindle. 

*Synopsis*

𝐋𝐢𝐚𝐦
Family, soccer, and friends, it’s what I’m best at.
And after Lucy left seven months ago, it’s all I’ve focused on.
The last year of college is here, and aside from soccer, I don’t know what I want.
Especially after screwing my best friend, the girl with ripped jeans, Doc Martens, and a spicy attitude. Since then, Vanessa’s attitude isn’t the only thing spicing up between us either.
Do I take the risk, knowing I could lose my best friend?
Or stay friends and miss out on the greatest love of my life?
I’m bound to screw something up.
After all, I’m Liam Raynolds.

𝐕𝐚𝐧𝐞𝐬𝐬𝐚
I’m always hiding under my laptop or books, bidding in digital currency, hacking, or getting lost with the month’s current read, anything to keep everyone at an arm’s length and my armor intact from becoming someone’s second in life.
Because somehow, I always am.
And the last thing I expected as an international student was finding a best friend who easily chipped away and closed that distance without a trail.
I never planned for Liam; it just happened.
I know what I want, but the clock is ticking, and once I graduate in the fall, I’ll be gone.
Decisions need to be made.
But who’s flipping the coin?

Be My Brayshaw - Meagan Brandy

We've both been (impatiently) waiting for Captain's story, since the Brayshaws stormed into our worlds. You can read our reviews for M&R's story trilogy HERE. But if you're already versed on the initial story, here's our individual takes on Meagan Brandy's newest installment.

Ruminations of an Insomniac..

I have waited for what feels like forever for this moment. To get inside the quiet, contemplative mind of Captain Brayshaw. My connection to his character feels almost kindred. He is the observer. The compassionate soul. The one who processess feelings, by writing. But more than all this, the anchor, tethering each individual Brayshaw into the whole. 

But what happens when Victoria, the blonde spitfire, sneaks in through the shadows of their existence. Just as she is accustomed to doing? Suddenly Captain is thrown off the course he thinks he set. Because what does the observer do when a better observer slinks into ranks? Both of them want to fight their chemistry so vehemently. But how do you fight a pull so strong, it rivals actual gravity? Sooner or later, somethings gotta give. And when that dam does break? What a beautiful disaster it creates. One reminder to myself at a time, to breathe, I fell apart witnessing it all. 

"I said I wanted you to be my Brayshaw, Captain. I never said a damn thing about needing you to become one.” - Victoria Vega

Meagan so intricately orchestrated this story, it legitimately couldn't have been told any other way. I was in awe from beginning to end. She threw every emotion into a centrifuge and opened the lid while it was still spinning. As a result, this book tore me to pieces. It was everything I had hoped it would be, and so much more. It captured me even more than I had anticipated. Her style is true to her, while her writing continues to evolve. And I am so here for it. 

Ramblings of a Bookworm.. 

I have been so anxiously awaiting this release, and Meagan Brandy did not disappoint.  I've always had a bit of a soft spot for Captain, and getting a glimpse inside of his mind was fascinating and beautiful - a boy who is calculating in every action and pours his heart out on paper, with a big heart and a brilliant mind.

Victoria is the yin to his yang; the storm in his calm; the one thing that can knock him off his axis and leave him wondering what the hell just happened.  The way she challenges him in the best possible ways gave me all the feels, their chemistry undeniable.  The story of Captain and Victoria was both heart warming and soul shattering, and I feel an odd sense of honor to have been able to bare witness to it.

“But you want to know me, like I need to know you.” - Captain Brayshaw

This continuation in the Brayshaw world was riveting and perfectly executed.  While waiting for this release killed me, I must say that it was well worth the wait.  Meagan's writing of strong heroes with even stronger heroines never ceases to amaze me; it's not very often that you read about a strong-willed female with the capacity to bring an equally strong-willed male to his knees.

Rating:

Book Boyfriend: 10/10

Flow: 10/10

Plot: 10/10 

Overall: 10/10

Currently available on Kindle. 

Synopsis:

“Cross one, cross all.”

That’s the Brayshaw way. 

She should have realized this before sliding into our world with secrets too big to bury.

She didn’t and now the target is on her back.

The day her lies came crashing down, I should have forced her out.

Instead, I locked her in, and with the promise I would never be hers. 

I resisted, fought against us.

I caved. 

I tasted what became my newfound favorite flavor and fell hard for the little liar.

But then the depth of her treachery reveals itself, and with it a reminder.

Our town is a twisted place, and with truth comes trouble.

In the blink of an eye, my world is split at its core, and I’m faced with an impossible decision, one that leads to a single outcome...

Betrayal.

Blowback - Monica James

Ruminations of an Insomniac..

Bull and Tiger are back. And they are lighting fire to the world around them. Just as dark as it's predecessor, but in a different way, Blowback holds it's own and completes The Monsters Within Duet stunningly. Monica James has such a flow with words that I couldn't help being taken hostage by their current. She painted a detailed picture in my mind, capturing me in this world, yet again. 

Jumping back into Bull and Tiger's minds has been a delicious privilege. Consuming darkness and breaking light, they crash together, sparking something akin to a sunrise. Breathtaking and vivid. Stopping me in my tracks. Once again, Monica awakened the little monster living in my mind and rewarded her with a feast. She is sated and probably napping now. But oh, how spoiled her darkness has been by this entire story. 

“I don’t know what happened to you, but the demons inside you, they’ll never go away. They’re a part of you. Don’t try to beat them. They’re what distinguishes you from the rest.” - José 

This book kept me suspended, beginning to end. I'm convinced that Monica James doesn't believe in 'filler' words. Every single word aided in the intricate construction of this plotline. Witty dialogue. Dark romance. Characters that bloom before your eyes. Every piece detailed enough to paint a movie-like image in my mind, but never over-worded. She genuinely hit it out of the park with the conclusion to this duet!

"Blood. It’s what courses through our veins. It doesn’t matter what color we are, what god we believe in, or what language we speak; it’s the common denominator throughout the world." - Bullseye 

My review for the first half, can be found HERE

Rating:

Book Boyfriend: 9/10

Flow: 10/10

Plot: 9/10 

Overall: 9/10

Currently available, new release!!! 

Synopsis:

This was supposed to be simple. Vengeance was mine. But I should know by now that nothing in life is easy.

My endgame has changed all because I met someone who wishes I was dead. Yet her hatred is the only thing saving her from The Big Bad. My lies protect her, so the harder she hates, the safer she is.

The thing about love and hate—it skates a very thin line. I need to stay away. It’s better for everyone if I do. But fighting this is like fighting nature.

Our paths crossed for a reason, and my Tiger isn’t fooled. Once the smoke clears, she will see every player, including me. I don’t deserve a second chance. But I want one…because I want her. The question is, what happens when the truth is finally revealed?

With the end in sight, I can promise you there will be nothing but violence and mayhem. 

Oh yes, blood will be shed.

No Prince - Stevie J Cole & LP Lovell

Ruminations of an Insomniac..

Holy hell in a hand basket. Zepp and Monroe just took me on a ride, to say the least. Stevie J Cole and LP Lovell wove these words so stunningly. It's just the story of two kids (I say that, but they're 18) figuring out what love means. But I assure you there is no actual just about any part of it.

Zeppelin Hunt is every girl's bad boy fantasy come to life. And he knows it. Tall, dark and angry; he's rough, with sharp edges. But the pieces of himself he tries to keep hidden, his loyalty and soul, run deep. He knows who he is, without hesitation. Until Monroe James, his best friend's neighbour, steps into his path. Physically, she's Jessica Rabbit, personified. But Monroe is no stranger to a rough life. Dripping with attitude but full of heart, she is exactly what Zepp didn't know he needed. Two poor, rough kids, isn't a dynamic I read about often. So this one felt special.

He felt like home when I’d never truly had one , and I wasn’t sure that was a good thing. - Monroe James

Their connection is like a flash flood. Sweeping in, catching everyone off guard, then leaving catastrophe in its path. I loved the raw edges of this story. The pages doused in the reality of imperfect. Everything from blow out fights to their gut wrenching self-doubt, broke my heart over and over. But there was hope that shone through the cracks. There was love, bigger than so many will encounter. And THAT is what made No Prince so enchanting. 

Rating:

Book Boyfriend: 9/10

Flow: 8/10

Plot: 9/10 

Overall: 9/10

Currently available on Kindle (and Kindle Unlimited).

Synopsis:

Zepp Hunt wasn’t the king of Dayton high school. He was the top of the food chain. And I was next in line to be dragged into the lion’s den. At least that’s what he thought…

Good girls wanted to tame him. Bad girls wanted to be tainted by him. Everyone bowed down to him. And me?

I hated Zeppelin Hunt with every fiber of my being.

Which was why I stayed away from the arrogant bad boy with tattoos and a rap sheet.

Until I couldn’t.

Until we traded favors, and I owed him three months of my life. I never thought I would end up in his bed, and when I did, I had to remind myself that he hated me as much as I hated him.

Until I didn’t.

Zepp Hunt was no prince, and I absolutely refused to be his damsel in distress…

Final Serenade - N.N. Britt

Ramblings of a Bookworm...

I've said it before, I'll say it again - I love rockstar romances, and Final Serenade was no exception.  A magical storyline filled with diverse characters, I was hooked from page 1.  Cassy Evans lives a life that any music fanatic (myself included) would swoon over, getting paid to attend shows and interview the best and brightest in the industry.

I was him and he was me, and it was the scariest and the wildest adventure of my entire life.

Take a moment and think back to when you were a teenager.  Who was your celebrity crush - be it a musician, actor, model, etc?  Mine was Brendon Urie of Panic! at the Disco.  Now, imagine being an adult, meeting that individual in person and having an instant connection.  Can you picture it?  ...no?  Me neither, which I think is one of the many reasons I fell hard for this novel.  N.N. Britt paints a brilliant picture with just enough twists and turns to keep you engaged.

I was completely enthralled, and I cannot wait until the second installment of The Encore duet, One Last Verse, to become available in May - especially after that cliffhanger.  You're killing me, N.N. Britt... absolutely killing me...

Book Boyfriend: 8/10 

Flow: 10/10

Plot: 9/10

Overall: 9/10

*Synopsis*

A secret affair with your teenage celebrity crush? Yes, please!

Music journalist Cassy Evans believes her career is made when she snags an exclusive interview with rock singer Frankie Blade.

Once a superstar of the generation, Frankie has been a recluse since a freak motorcycle incident sent his career into a tailspin seven years ago. Now that he’s returned to claim back his crown, Cassy hopes to kill two birds with one stone—secure her magazine a top spot in the rankings and meet with the man of her adolescent dreams.

A dinner invitation isn’t what she expects to get out of this interview, but the chemistry between them is undeniable.

With paparazzi watching Frankie’s every move as the two jump into a stormy relationship, Cassy risks her career and her privacy—and possibly her heart—to be with the biggest rockstar on the planet. But is Frankie worth it? Is he the humble man she thinks he is or is he just that good at hiding his demons?

Final Serenade is the first installment in “The Encore” series. Cassy and Frankie’s story concludes in One Last Verse.