Search
Search results
Debbiereadsbook (1752 KP) rated Unrivaled (Hockey Ever After #3) in Books
Mar 24, 2024 (Updated Mar 24, 2024)
so bloody good!
Independent reviewer for Archaeolibrarian, I was gifted my copy of this book.
This is book 3 in the Hockey Ever After series, and I am reading it after I read book 4. They can all read as a stand alone, the characters from previous books do pop up, but you don't need to haveread those to fully enjoy this book.
And I bloody LOVED this book! It is absolutely on a par with book 2, that got 5 stars from me, but for a very different reason. That book was very emotional, heavy on the angst scale. THIS one? Opposite end of the scale, low on the angst. Emotional, still, but different.
Max and Grady has chemistry on the ice, just the sort that the media have billed it as hatred. Grady doesn't hate Max, Max breaking Grady's arm years previously really was an accident. But when a hookup who Max thinks is a catfish usingGrady's picture turns out to be Grady, that attraction goes into overdrive. And from that very first time, both men were hooked. But they play for rival teams, can it really work when one or both could be traded and moved at a moments notice?
I loved this, I really did!
Max and Grady are perfect for each other, each with their quirks and faults that compliment the others and I fell in love with these guys right from the start.
The chemistry is powerful, and plays a huge part all the way through the book. But I found this one was a bit more fade to grey, than full on page smexy times, and I think for THESE two, it was perfect.
The hockey match descriptions, while a lot, I found I enjoyed then more because of the interaction between Max and Grady when they were on ice together. Even when they played other teams, I didn't feel overwhelmed by the technical stuff. I still have no clue how it works, but having been to an ice hockey match here in the UK, I can appreciate the SPEED these matches are played at!
The only real angst, I think, was when Grady got traded. He reacted badly to something someone said, and instead of reaching out to Max, Max bore the brunt of Grady's anger...? No, he wasn't angry, he was HURT. But Grady does redeem himself, quite wonderfully.
I have already read the short that comes after this, and I'm finding it really REALLY hard not to write in here, what happens there. So I will leave this one as this:
5 full and shiny stars!
*same worded review will appear elsewhere
This is book 3 in the Hockey Ever After series, and I am reading it after I read book 4. They can all read as a stand alone, the characters from previous books do pop up, but you don't need to haveread those to fully enjoy this book.
And I bloody LOVED this book! It is absolutely on a par with book 2, that got 5 stars from me, but for a very different reason. That book was very emotional, heavy on the angst scale. THIS one? Opposite end of the scale, low on the angst. Emotional, still, but different.
Max and Grady has chemistry on the ice, just the sort that the media have billed it as hatred. Grady doesn't hate Max, Max breaking Grady's arm years previously really was an accident. But when a hookup who Max thinks is a catfish usingGrady's picture turns out to be Grady, that attraction goes into overdrive. And from that very first time, both men were hooked. But they play for rival teams, can it really work when one or both could be traded and moved at a moments notice?
I loved this, I really did!
Max and Grady are perfect for each other, each with their quirks and faults that compliment the others and I fell in love with these guys right from the start.
The chemistry is powerful, and plays a huge part all the way through the book. But I found this one was a bit more fade to grey, than full on page smexy times, and I think for THESE two, it was perfect.
The hockey match descriptions, while a lot, I found I enjoyed then more because of the interaction between Max and Grady when they were on ice together. Even when they played other teams, I didn't feel overwhelmed by the technical stuff. I still have no clue how it works, but having been to an ice hockey match here in the UK, I can appreciate the SPEED these matches are played at!
The only real angst, I think, was when Grady got traded. He reacted badly to something someone said, and instead of reaching out to Max, Max bore the brunt of Grady's anger...? No, he wasn't angry, he was HURT. But Grady does redeem himself, quite wonderfully.
I have already read the short that comes after this, and I'm finding it really REALLY hard not to write in here, what happens there. So I will leave this one as this:
5 full and shiny stars!
*same worded review will appear elsewhere
Debbiereadsbook (1752 KP) rated Thicker Than Water (Redwater Demons #1) in Books
Jul 27, 2024
freaking loved this book!
Independent reviewer for GRR, I was gifted my copy of this book.
This book, right here, is what I love MOST about reviewing. I come across a blurb that I love the sound of, by an author that is new to me, and the book blows me away! I freaking LOVED this book!
Julian is a demon hunter. His latest job finds himself adopted by the demon he was sent to kill. But she's just a little girl, and he cannot. He then finds said toddler kidnapped from him, and a demon contacts him, to share custody! (I'm sorry, but that really did make me chuckle!) But as Cassius and JJ bond over Desi, pieces are being moved on the cheesboard, and it's not very clear who will come out on top.
Like I said, freaking loved this book!
I loved the jump straight in for JJ and Desi. I loved the gentle way we are told about this world and the people and demons in it. The world building is excellent, and I could keep up and follow what was being thrown at me at all times. Cass and JJ have redefined the SLOW BUILD! I love the gradual way the attraction builds between these two. It's slow and subtle, and one of them thinks/says something and its "say what now??" SOme funny moments, too.
It's violent in places. JJ bears the brunt of that but not all is on page. MUCH is implied. I liked that we don't get it all, but we get some clues as to how bad it really was.
While JJ and Cass have a slow build, when we get to the main event?? Totally fade to grey and I freaking LOVED THAT TOO!! I'm big enough to admit, I like my books on the steamy side, and I'm also big enough to admit that not all books nned to be explicit. I loved that this one was not.
Betrayal of the highest order is painful for JJ, but Cass comes to the rescue, in his true form. And I loved that there was no indication that demons in this world had another form! There is some indication who might be next, at the end of this one with a bit of the next book. Actually, it gives you the next TWO books, I hope!
This is a new to me author, at the start of a new series. Two questions I ask myself when I read new authors and starts of series: will I read more by this author?? And will I continue the series. My answers to both questions is a HELL FREAKING YES!!
I can't fault this, I really cannot.
5 full and oh-so shiny stars!
*same worded review will appear elsewhere
This book, right here, is what I love MOST about reviewing. I come across a blurb that I love the sound of, by an author that is new to me, and the book blows me away! I freaking LOVED this book!
Julian is a demon hunter. His latest job finds himself adopted by the demon he was sent to kill. But she's just a little girl, and he cannot. He then finds said toddler kidnapped from him, and a demon contacts him, to share custody! (I'm sorry, but that really did make me chuckle!) But as Cassius and JJ bond over Desi, pieces are being moved on the cheesboard, and it's not very clear who will come out on top.
Like I said, freaking loved this book!
I loved the jump straight in for JJ and Desi. I loved the gentle way we are told about this world and the people and demons in it. The world building is excellent, and I could keep up and follow what was being thrown at me at all times. Cass and JJ have redefined the SLOW BUILD! I love the gradual way the attraction builds between these two. It's slow and subtle, and one of them thinks/says something and its "say what now??" SOme funny moments, too.
It's violent in places. JJ bears the brunt of that but not all is on page. MUCH is implied. I liked that we don't get it all, but we get some clues as to how bad it really was.
While JJ and Cass have a slow build, when we get to the main event?? Totally fade to grey and I freaking LOVED THAT TOO!! I'm big enough to admit, I like my books on the steamy side, and I'm also big enough to admit that not all books nned to be explicit. I loved that this one was not.
Betrayal of the highest order is painful for JJ, but Cass comes to the rescue, in his true form. And I loved that there was no indication that demons in this world had another form! There is some indication who might be next, at the end of this one with a bit of the next book. Actually, it gives you the next TWO books, I hope!
This is a new to me author, at the start of a new series. Two questions I ask myself when I read new authors and starts of series: will I read more by this author?? And will I continue the series. My answers to both questions is a HELL FREAKING YES!!
I can't fault this, I really cannot.
5 full and oh-so shiny stars!
*same worded review will appear elsewhere
Debbiereadsbook (1752 KP) rated To Defend a Damaged Duke (Regency Rossingley #2) in Books
Jun 22, 2025
Loved this second instalment!!
Independent Reviewer for GRR, I was gifted my copy of this book.
This is book 2 in the Regency Rossingley series. While I do think it came be read as a stand alone read, I think it would benefit to read book 1, To Tempt a Troubled Earl. Since Lando and Kit play a huge part here, it will give you a better picture of their relationship, and that of Kit and Tommy. Not strictly necessary, just my persosnal opinion.
Ten years ago, Benedict did something he never forgave himself for. Now, Tommy has appeared in his life and Benedict wants nothing more than to beg Tommy's forgiveness. But first, they must uncover a blackmailer, and deal with someone messing with Benedict's horses.
I refer to my review for the first book. I said "I loved the way the duke was brought down. I wasn't fully in on the plan, as to how it was going to work, but that was just my brain not really putting it altogether!" But what I think NOW is that it is just the author's writing. She likes to keep things a bit vague, and secret, and keeps you on your toes. And I really LOVED that I can come to that revelation. Benedict has a plan to deal with the horse issue, and he doesn't tell anyone. I had a thought about that, then dismissed it, but he does what I thought he would do!!
I loved Tommy and Benedict. I loved that they still loved each other, even after what happened at the molly house. After what Tommy went through, his Lordling still pushed all his buttons and then some. Even if his feelings were borderline hate for a long time.
And what I loved the most?? That I kinda thought Tommy and Benedict had 'gone all the way' for want of a better expression in their dealings as teenagers. And it turns out, that they had not. And I loved when Benedict reveals to Tommy what he does. Made me all emotional, but I'm not saying what he reveals for spoilers!
Loved how it all went down with the blackmailing/ horse things. Those ladies of the Ton are not to be messed with and they pulled a blinder of a plan off! Beatrice and Mrs de Villiers?? Loved them!
I look forward to reading book 3, especially after that snippet at the back!
Actually, what I loved the most?? That I wrote 4 stars at the top pf the page for this and it's reviewed itself into a . . .
5 full and shiny star read!
*same worded review will elsewhere
This is book 2 in the Regency Rossingley series. While I do think it came be read as a stand alone read, I think it would benefit to read book 1, To Tempt a Troubled Earl. Since Lando and Kit play a huge part here, it will give you a better picture of their relationship, and that of Kit and Tommy. Not strictly necessary, just my persosnal opinion.
Ten years ago, Benedict did something he never forgave himself for. Now, Tommy has appeared in his life and Benedict wants nothing more than to beg Tommy's forgiveness. But first, they must uncover a blackmailer, and deal with someone messing with Benedict's horses.
I refer to my review for the first book. I said "I loved the way the duke was brought down. I wasn't fully in on the plan, as to how it was going to work, but that was just my brain not really putting it altogether!" But what I think NOW is that it is just the author's writing. She likes to keep things a bit vague, and secret, and keeps you on your toes. And I really LOVED that I can come to that revelation. Benedict has a plan to deal with the horse issue, and he doesn't tell anyone. I had a thought about that, then dismissed it, but he does what I thought he would do!!
I loved Tommy and Benedict. I loved that they still loved each other, even after what happened at the molly house. After what Tommy went through, his Lordling still pushed all his buttons and then some. Even if his feelings were borderline hate for a long time.
And what I loved the most?? That I kinda thought Tommy and Benedict had 'gone all the way' for want of a better expression in their dealings as teenagers. And it turns out, that they had not. And I loved when Benedict reveals to Tommy what he does. Made me all emotional, but I'm not saying what he reveals for spoilers!
Loved how it all went down with the blackmailing/ horse things. Those ladies of the Ton are not to be messed with and they pulled a blinder of a plan off! Beatrice and Mrs de Villiers?? Loved them!
I look forward to reading book 3, especially after that snippet at the back!
Actually, what I loved the most?? That I wrote 4 stars at the top pf the page for this and it's reviewed itself into a . . .
5 full and shiny star read!
*same worded review will elsewhere
Debbiereadsbook (1752 KP) rated Mating With Monsters (The Red Agency #2) in Books
Dec 11, 2025
creeping up from book 1!
Independent reviewer for BookSirens, I was gifted my copy of this book.
This is book 2 in The Red Agency series, and while not strictly necessary, I do recommend you read book 1, Matching With Monsters before this one. Somethings happen in that book that are referenced in this one, and they are not fully recapped. I think you can get the gist of it, so it is just a personal recommendation, is all.
Cami is Ari's best friend, one of them. After dealing with her boss for so long, and at Ari's insistence, she signs up for The Red Agency to be matched with a monster (or 4!) She finds herself face to face with a one night stand, Raif; her boss's thorn in his side, Cyrus; the werewolf who saved her in book 1, Teagan and then, her boss, Damon, who are all in a clan, if estranged somewhat. And then they find out she has a stalker, so all bets are off, they they double down to keep her safe.
Well played with the stalker! I have 3 pinned for that, and then it's someone totally else and I loved being played with that!
It is, again, very much Cami and HER monsters but I epected that so it didn't come so much as a surprise. And again, single person point of view. However, this time, there wasn't just ONE I wanted to hear from, I wanted them all! I'm just flipping greedy, I know but it's how I felt!
There was some history as to how these guys came to be a clan, and that is different from book 1, so I enjoyed that.
It's steamy, and I think steamier than book 1, but not entirely sure why my book brain thinks that! I did like that Cami was intimate with all 4 guys seperately, BEFORE they were all together, and when they were mating, Cyrus was just himself, none of his shades took part.
Loved that all four guys were different monsters, and not from birth. Cyrus was cursed, and is like Anubis. Teagan is a werewolf, Raif and incubus and Damon is a devil. They all have their quirks and they use them to please Cami as best they can.
Lyssa is the third friend. Some things happen here that lead into her book, which is next. I'm looking forward to getting my hands on that book, cos I think it might be the one that tips over to 5 stars. I gave book 1 4 stars, and we creeped up a bit here to . . .
4.5 stars (rounded down for the blog)
*same worded review will appear elsewhere
This is book 2 in The Red Agency series, and while not strictly necessary, I do recommend you read book 1, Matching With Monsters before this one. Somethings happen in that book that are referenced in this one, and they are not fully recapped. I think you can get the gist of it, so it is just a personal recommendation, is all.
Cami is Ari's best friend, one of them. After dealing with her boss for so long, and at Ari's insistence, she signs up for The Red Agency to be matched with a monster (or 4!) She finds herself face to face with a one night stand, Raif; her boss's thorn in his side, Cyrus; the werewolf who saved her in book 1, Teagan and then, her boss, Damon, who are all in a clan, if estranged somewhat. And then they find out she has a stalker, so all bets are off, they they double down to keep her safe.
Well played with the stalker! I have 3 pinned for that, and then it's someone totally else and I loved being played with that!
It is, again, very much Cami and HER monsters but I epected that so it didn't come so much as a surprise. And again, single person point of view. However, this time, there wasn't just ONE I wanted to hear from, I wanted them all! I'm just flipping greedy, I know but it's how I felt!
There was some history as to how these guys came to be a clan, and that is different from book 1, so I enjoyed that.
It's steamy, and I think steamier than book 1, but not entirely sure why my book brain thinks that! I did like that Cami was intimate with all 4 guys seperately, BEFORE they were all together, and when they were mating, Cyrus was just himself, none of his shades took part.
Loved that all four guys were different monsters, and not from birth. Cyrus was cursed, and is like Anubis. Teagan is a werewolf, Raif and incubus and Damon is a devil. They all have their quirks and they use them to please Cami as best they can.
Lyssa is the third friend. Some things happen here that lead into her book, which is next. I'm looking forward to getting my hands on that book, cos I think it might be the one that tips over to 5 stars. I gave book 1 4 stars, and we creeped up a bit here to . . .
4.5 stars (rounded down for the blog)
*same worded review will appear elsewhere
Debbiereadsbook (1752 KP) rated The Prince of Asgard (The Nine Worlds #2) in Books
Mar 22, 2026
the emotions creep up and I loved watching them fall!
Independent reviewer for Archaeolibrarian, I was gifted my copy of this book.
This is book 2 in The Nine Worlds series, and it can be read as a stand alone. I would recommend, however, that you read book 1, The Magic of Vanaheim. It will give you a better understanding of this world, the Norse mythology and the wonderfulness that is Ms Nansen's writing!
Thori kills a dragon a few years ago, and now he finds himself sold, as a thrall, to the man who loved that dragon. He just needs to kill that man too, and he can be free. But there are other things at work, and Thori needs to work WITH Njord to save the world they live in. He's just not sure he can let Njord go, once they have.
I loved book one, Hakon and Talvi do pop up here. But you don't need their story to follow this one. There is a little overlap between the two, because I wrote in that review: But the biggest question is just what is going on with Talvi's uncle and the thrall??
Well, now I know!
I loved this book, I really did. Thori and Njord (Talvi's uncle) butt heads right from the start, but it's the way they grow closer that I loved. It's a proper slow burn, and it was right and proper that these two took some time to become fully invested in the other.
Lots and lots of Norse and Viking mythology and lore and again, some I knew of, some not. But I've given up trying to match my (very limited) knowledge to what's on the page because I'm fairly certain, what I think I remember from wherever I picked it up, is wrong and I'm getting mixed up. So once I stopped, I was able to fully engross myself in this book, this world and these people.
Some violence, but hey! Vikings and witches and all manner of deadly beings, so to be expected. I found the smex a bit lighter (than book 1) but no less powerful and steamy. The emotions creep up on both Thori and Njord and I loved watching them fall.
There was a sort of third act break up, sort of, but Thori remedies that beautifully! And with such a gift!!
I don't know who might be next, I'm sure there were clues here, but I might have missed them, concentrating on Thori and Njord as I was but I WILL read it. There is clearly a bigger picture I'm yet to see, but my book brain is screaming at me, that something bigger is going on that is already clear!
5 full and shiny stars
*same worded review will appear elsewhere
This is book 2 in The Nine Worlds series, and it can be read as a stand alone. I would recommend, however, that you read book 1, The Magic of Vanaheim. It will give you a better understanding of this world, the Norse mythology and the wonderfulness that is Ms Nansen's writing!
Thori kills a dragon a few years ago, and now he finds himself sold, as a thrall, to the man who loved that dragon. He just needs to kill that man too, and he can be free. But there are other things at work, and Thori needs to work WITH Njord to save the world they live in. He's just not sure he can let Njord go, once they have.
I loved book one, Hakon and Talvi do pop up here. But you don't need their story to follow this one. There is a little overlap between the two, because I wrote in that review: But the biggest question is just what is going on with Talvi's uncle and the thrall??
Well, now I know!
I loved this book, I really did. Thori and Njord (Talvi's uncle) butt heads right from the start, but it's the way they grow closer that I loved. It's a proper slow burn, and it was right and proper that these two took some time to become fully invested in the other.
Lots and lots of Norse and Viking mythology and lore and again, some I knew of, some not. But I've given up trying to match my (very limited) knowledge to what's on the page because I'm fairly certain, what I think I remember from wherever I picked it up, is wrong and I'm getting mixed up. So once I stopped, I was able to fully engross myself in this book, this world and these people.
Some violence, but hey! Vikings and witches and all manner of deadly beings, so to be expected. I found the smex a bit lighter (than book 1) but no less powerful and steamy. The emotions creep up on both Thori and Njord and I loved watching them fall.
There was a sort of third act break up, sort of, but Thori remedies that beautifully! And with such a gift!!
I don't know who might be next, I'm sure there were clues here, but I might have missed them, concentrating on Thori and Njord as I was but I WILL read it. There is clearly a bigger picture I'm yet to see, but my book brain is screaming at me, that something bigger is going on that is already clear!
5 full and shiny stars
*same worded review will appear elsewhere
Debbiereadsbook (1752 KP) rated Around and Around We Go (Vermont Trailblazers #2) in Books
Apr 30, 2026
it was EPIC, when Sandro let Bennett in!
Independent reviewer for Archaeolibrarain, I was gifted my copy of this book.
This is book 2 in the Vermont Trailblazers series. While it can be read as a stand alone to book 1, The Best Parts of Him, I reckon you SHOULD read that book first. Why? Cos it was freaking awesome and so is this one!
Sandro is the oldest player in the team, and until his knees and/or back give out, he'll keep playing cos The Trailblazers are heading for a third consecutive championship this year. He just needs to hold out and put up with this documentary that is being made around them. Bennett is the director. He too, is facing the end of his career if this series tanked as much as the last one. That he is here, facing the love of his life after 15 years? Minor detail, and Bennett just needs to talk to Sandro, if Sandro will let him.
What I noticed while reading this book, (nay, I inhaled this book!) was although it's a hockey based book, there was very little actual on ice descriptions of play. And as a non-sporty person, I absolutely loved that! There are some, but only enough to give you a picture of what's going on, and it's not in great detail. It all made perfect sense to me, as sometimes, I get overwhelmed by the detail and I didn't here and I was able to fully concentrate on Sandro and Bennett.
And they were beautiful, they really were.
I fully understood why Sandro didn't really want to talk to Bennett, off camera, the man was still hurting, even after all this time, but when Sandro allowed Bennett in, finally?? Oh it was truly epic. Sandro made Bennett work for it, he really did.
I loved that Bennett found the theme for the series based on his own experience. Loved how the older Trailblazers were helping the new team members who really were struggling. And that Sandro found his future, along the same thread.
It takes time for the steam to build, and I loved being made to wait for it. This book is more about the emotions of these two men, and giving the other a second chance. Oh Bennett wanted Sandro, he really did, but Sandro wasn't sure about letting him in and I loved that they didn't jump straight back in. 15 years is a long time!
Absolutely cracking follow-up to book 1, and I can't wait to see what comes next. Well, I know who comes next, but I gotta wait so freaking long!
A stunning 5 star read!
*same worded review will appear elsewhere
This is book 2 in the Vermont Trailblazers series. While it can be read as a stand alone to book 1, The Best Parts of Him, I reckon you SHOULD read that book first. Why? Cos it was freaking awesome and so is this one!
Sandro is the oldest player in the team, and until his knees and/or back give out, he'll keep playing cos The Trailblazers are heading for a third consecutive championship this year. He just needs to hold out and put up with this documentary that is being made around them. Bennett is the director. He too, is facing the end of his career if this series tanked as much as the last one. That he is here, facing the love of his life after 15 years? Minor detail, and Bennett just needs to talk to Sandro, if Sandro will let him.
What I noticed while reading this book, (nay, I inhaled this book!) was although it's a hockey based book, there was very little actual on ice descriptions of play. And as a non-sporty person, I absolutely loved that! There are some, but only enough to give you a picture of what's going on, and it's not in great detail. It all made perfect sense to me, as sometimes, I get overwhelmed by the detail and I didn't here and I was able to fully concentrate on Sandro and Bennett.
And they were beautiful, they really were.
I fully understood why Sandro didn't really want to talk to Bennett, off camera, the man was still hurting, even after all this time, but when Sandro allowed Bennett in, finally?? Oh it was truly epic. Sandro made Bennett work for it, he really did.
I loved that Bennett found the theme for the series based on his own experience. Loved how the older Trailblazers were helping the new team members who really were struggling. And that Sandro found his future, along the same thread.
It takes time for the steam to build, and I loved being made to wait for it. This book is more about the emotions of these two men, and giving the other a second chance. Oh Bennett wanted Sandro, he really did, but Sandro wasn't sure about letting him in and I loved that they didn't jump straight back in. 15 years is a long time!
Absolutely cracking follow-up to book 1, and I can't wait to see what comes next. Well, I know who comes next, but I gotta wait so freaking long!
A stunning 5 star read!
*same worded review will appear elsewhere
Debbiereadsbook (1752 KP) rated Tor (The Hawks #4) in Books
Dec 3, 2021
this series gets better and better!!
Independent reviewer for Archaeolibrarian, I was gifted my copy of this book.
This is book 4 in the hawks Series and you really SHOULD read Tristan, Val and Mathos before this one. There is an ongoing story arc through these books and much is not fully recapped.
Tor took a shine to Keeley when he rescued her from Ballinor's grip. They have chemistry but it takes time for them to give in to that. Tor, the big Apollyon that he is, messes up BIGTIME and more than once. Keeley takes everything he says direct to her heart, but it's only later she realises that she has taken things all out of context and now what is she supposed to do?!
It was clear, from the moment we met Keeley in book 2, I think she pops up in, that she and Tor were made for each other. Having the story from THEIR points of view, makes you see things so much clearer.
It took me a while to piece together what Keeley was trying to say, I was so engrossed in the story I think I forgot to read, if that makes sense! *note to self, pay attention!
Keeley is hurting for much of the book, in one way or another, and not always due to Tor and his way with words. You feel for her, deeply. you don't know it all at once and I do love waiting for things to become clear. Tor's pain is different but his is pretty much laid out for you, right from the start. The beginning few chapters of this book run alongside the other three books. Indeed, in book3, Mathos, we know Tor did something bad. Now we know what!
We meet the next leading lady here. I'm not 100% certain about her yet, and what she has to say will be interesting, given who she is, and how Tor and Keeley came upto her. There is much she has to say. And Reece! Who still thinks everything is his fault and is currently drinking his beast into silence. He also has a lot to say, and I can't wait to hear him.
But what's keeping me the most gripped with this series is this: I cannot see where it's all going! Things are changing so fast from book to book, and I really can't see an end in sight and I love that!
How many are there? I've no idea! A couple of the guys have been lurking in the background, doing what needs to be done and popping up along the way. I want them ALL to be happy, and it will be interesting how they get there.
I stress again, write quicker Ms Roberts. Write. Quicker!
5 full and shiny stars
This is book 4 in the hawks Series and you really SHOULD read Tristan, Val and Mathos before this one. There is an ongoing story arc through these books and much is not fully recapped.
Tor took a shine to Keeley when he rescued her from Ballinor's grip. They have chemistry but it takes time for them to give in to that. Tor, the big Apollyon that he is, messes up BIGTIME and more than once. Keeley takes everything he says direct to her heart, but it's only later she realises that she has taken things all out of context and now what is she supposed to do?!
It was clear, from the moment we met Keeley in book 2, I think she pops up in, that she and Tor were made for each other. Having the story from THEIR points of view, makes you see things so much clearer.
It took me a while to piece together what Keeley was trying to say, I was so engrossed in the story I think I forgot to read, if that makes sense! *note to self, pay attention!
Keeley is hurting for much of the book, in one way or another, and not always due to Tor and his way with words. You feel for her, deeply. you don't know it all at once and I do love waiting for things to become clear. Tor's pain is different but his is pretty much laid out for you, right from the start. The beginning few chapters of this book run alongside the other three books. Indeed, in book3, Mathos, we know Tor did something bad. Now we know what!
We meet the next leading lady here. I'm not 100% certain about her yet, and what she has to say will be interesting, given who she is, and how Tor and Keeley came upto her. There is much she has to say. And Reece! Who still thinks everything is his fault and is currently drinking his beast into silence. He also has a lot to say, and I can't wait to hear him.
But what's keeping me the most gripped with this series is this: I cannot see where it's all going! Things are changing so fast from book to book, and I really can't see an end in sight and I love that!
How many are there? I've no idea! A couple of the guys have been lurking in the background, doing what needs to be done and popping up along the way. I want them ALL to be happy, and it will be interesting how they get there.
I stress again, write quicker Ms Roberts. Write. Quicker!
5 full and shiny stars
Debbiereadsbook (1752 KP) rated Marvin (Assassin's To Order #1) in Books
Mar 10, 2023
did not see the DNA twist coming!
Independent reviewer for Archaeolibrarian, I was gifted my copy of this book.
This s a spin series, from the Tangled Tentacles series. While not necessary to have read all 5 books, you should at least read book 5, Kelvin. But then again, I said in my review for THAT book, you need to read them all first, so read them all, then!
We met Marvin in Kelvin's book. He surprised everyone, even me. I loved his sweet nature then, his fierce protectiveness of all the Thalassa babies and of those boys who are still missing. It's one of those boys, Ajani, who especially calls to Marvin. Given as Ajani is his soul mate, hardly surprising, but what did surprise me was how little Ajani thought of himself, how he thinks that MArvin does not deserve someone like him.
The lost boys have been trained as assassins. And that's all they know. Revealing themselves, as they are being called to do, opens a whole can of worms no one saw coming, least of all Marvin but he rallies and manages to keep Ajani and the others safe for a time. What that does do, though, it put a target on Marvin's head. Finding out WHO becomes everyone's sole focus.
I loved who all the Thalassa Kracken are here, along with their mates and the babies!
I did NOT see the twist as to what Marvin's DNA might contain, til that was thrown at me!
Marvin and Ajani's tale is a tad sweeter than the Thalassa books, but mostly cos of Marvin. Changing it a smexier book would lose a little of the sweetness Marvin brings to this world and I'd hate that. It is a little darker too, if that makes any sense. These boys are trained assassins and they make no bones about it. It's talked about, what they do and you need to know that.
The epilogue leads very nicely into book 2, as all these books do.
HOWEVER!
Something was missing for me, and Sayle has a knack of serious pushing my book brain with questions, questions, SO MANY FREAKING QUESTIONS! I can't voice those questions either and it equally pisses me off and strives me to dig deeper in my book brain to get them out! I said, in a review for another of Sayle's books " If I cannot voice the questions, how can the author answer them??"
And that's exactly what we have here. Something was missing and I gotta dig DEEP to figure out what.
Still, a very engaging read, that kept me fully engrossed for the whole single sitting I read it in.
4 stars
*same worded review will appear elsewhere
This s a spin series, from the Tangled Tentacles series. While not necessary to have read all 5 books, you should at least read book 5, Kelvin. But then again, I said in my review for THAT book, you need to read them all first, so read them all, then!
We met Marvin in Kelvin's book. He surprised everyone, even me. I loved his sweet nature then, his fierce protectiveness of all the Thalassa babies and of those boys who are still missing. It's one of those boys, Ajani, who especially calls to Marvin. Given as Ajani is his soul mate, hardly surprising, but what did surprise me was how little Ajani thought of himself, how he thinks that MArvin does not deserve someone like him.
The lost boys have been trained as assassins. And that's all they know. Revealing themselves, as they are being called to do, opens a whole can of worms no one saw coming, least of all Marvin but he rallies and manages to keep Ajani and the others safe for a time. What that does do, though, it put a target on Marvin's head. Finding out WHO becomes everyone's sole focus.
I loved who all the Thalassa Kracken are here, along with their mates and the babies!
I did NOT see the twist as to what Marvin's DNA might contain, til that was thrown at me!
Marvin and Ajani's tale is a tad sweeter than the Thalassa books, but mostly cos of Marvin. Changing it a smexier book would lose a little of the sweetness Marvin brings to this world and I'd hate that. It is a little darker too, if that makes any sense. These boys are trained assassins and they make no bones about it. It's talked about, what they do and you need to know that.
The epilogue leads very nicely into book 2, as all these books do.
HOWEVER!
Something was missing for me, and Sayle has a knack of serious pushing my book brain with questions, questions, SO MANY FREAKING QUESTIONS! I can't voice those questions either and it equally pisses me off and strives me to dig deeper in my book brain to get them out! I said, in a review for another of Sayle's books " If I cannot voice the questions, how can the author answer them??"
And that's exactly what we have here. Something was missing and I gotta dig DEEP to figure out what.
Still, a very engaging read, that kept me fully engrossed for the whole single sitting I read it in.
4 stars
*same worded review will appear elsewhere
Debbiereadsbook (1752 KP) rated Scott (Owatonna U Hockey #2) in Books
Mar 29, 2019
much better than book one!
Independent reviewer for Archaeolibrarian, I was gifted my copy of this book.
This is book two in the Owatonna U Hockey trilogy, but you don't need to have read book one first. I have though, and found THAT book not really to my liking.
THIS one, however, I enjoyed far more.
Scott is suffering, since his brother died, and decides to self medicate with illegal steroids. After punching his best friend in the face, Scott is suspended for a whole 12 months, and is quite literally, chucked out his home. With nowhere to go, he happens to meet Hayne at a mandatory counselling session. Hayne, for reasons he cannot fathom, takes pity on Scott and the pair become inseparable. They each have their own demons, but together, they just might be able to overcome them.
Like I said, a MUCH better read, for me anyway, that Ryker. And much of that is because I didn't much care for Ryker in his book and I'll come back to that in a minute, though.
Hayne is a free spirited artist, in his final year at college. He is terrorised by his tenants, and spends all his time in his room, trying to paint his final piece. Meeting Scott, who turns out to be the muse he was missing, wasn't planned, but Hayne runs with it. Helping Scott get back to hockey seems the right and best thing to do. That Scott helps Hayne is a much added bonus.
Hayne is LOVELY!! So sweet, I wanted to punch his housemates! And the fact that he really sees Scott helps. Scott is trying to be the son his father wants, but he isn't his brother Luke. He will NEVER be Luke. His father pushes Scott away, and it takes his mother, who has been self medicating in the bottom of a bottle, to pull HER big girl panties up, and make her husband and son see that they are BOTH suffering and TOGETHER they can make some semblance of a relationship again.
Loved Hayne's mum and Mimi! Loved that they took Scott in when he needed someone the most, Hayne aside.
Back to Ryker. I did not like him in his book, but he does redeem himself somewhat here! While Scott is hiding, his friends, the ones he thought hated him, were planning an intervention, and Ryker is foremost at getting Scott to see that his friends don't hate him, they just didn't see how much he was suffering.
It does carry some darker story lines, grief, bereavement, alcohol and drug abuse, but they are all part and parcel of Scott's story, and they are very well written.
Oh, and you'll need tissues. I cried a LOT with this book!
Can't QUITE get past the first person to stretch to 5 stars, but a much better than book one:
4 stars
**same worded review will appear elsewhere**
This is book two in the Owatonna U Hockey trilogy, but you don't need to have read book one first. I have though, and found THAT book not really to my liking.
THIS one, however, I enjoyed far more.
Scott is suffering, since his brother died, and decides to self medicate with illegal steroids. After punching his best friend in the face, Scott is suspended for a whole 12 months, and is quite literally, chucked out his home. With nowhere to go, he happens to meet Hayne at a mandatory counselling session. Hayne, for reasons he cannot fathom, takes pity on Scott and the pair become inseparable. They each have their own demons, but together, they just might be able to overcome them.
Like I said, a MUCH better read, for me anyway, that Ryker. And much of that is because I didn't much care for Ryker in his book and I'll come back to that in a minute, though.
Hayne is a free spirited artist, in his final year at college. He is terrorised by his tenants, and spends all his time in his room, trying to paint his final piece. Meeting Scott, who turns out to be the muse he was missing, wasn't planned, but Hayne runs with it. Helping Scott get back to hockey seems the right and best thing to do. That Scott helps Hayne is a much added bonus.
Hayne is LOVELY!! So sweet, I wanted to punch his housemates! And the fact that he really sees Scott helps. Scott is trying to be the son his father wants, but he isn't his brother Luke. He will NEVER be Luke. His father pushes Scott away, and it takes his mother, who has been self medicating in the bottom of a bottle, to pull HER big girl panties up, and make her husband and son see that they are BOTH suffering and TOGETHER they can make some semblance of a relationship again.
Loved Hayne's mum and Mimi! Loved that they took Scott in when he needed someone the most, Hayne aside.
Back to Ryker. I did not like him in his book, but he does redeem himself somewhat here! While Scott is hiding, his friends, the ones he thought hated him, were planning an intervention, and Ryker is foremost at getting Scott to see that his friends don't hate him, they just didn't see how much he was suffering.
It does carry some darker story lines, grief, bereavement, alcohol and drug abuse, but they are all part and parcel of Scott's story, and they are very well written.
Oh, and you'll need tissues. I cried a LOT with this book!
Can't QUITE get past the first person to stretch to 5 stars, but a much better than book one:
4 stars
**same worded review will appear elsewhere**
Zuky the BookBum (15 KP) rated Unravelling Oliver in Books
Mar 15, 2018
Why must I be disappointed by books I’m so eager to read? I didn’t end up loving this novel as much as I would have liked to, but I didn’t exactly hate it.
This novel started strong. It’s first line, “I expected more of a reaction the first time I hit her“, is brutal and shocking, it lures you in in an instant. What I expected to follow was a taut, heart racing novel about why such a “loving husband” would beat his wife into a coma. And, I guess I got the “why” bit, but I didn’t get the taut, heart racing bit. It was snail pace and didn’t really get exciting until the very end.
I saw another reviewer talk about the lack of character in the characters in the novel and she’s right. Considering this whole book was a character study, the people we got to study weren’t that special. I was most interested in Veronique so I was glad she had a good few chapters to herself, but I wasn’t particularly interested in reading about what other people thought of Oliver. Even Oliver’s own chapters could get irritating.
I can’t fault the writing in this one. For a debut, it’s really good! If you connected with the characters, the writing could definitely put you in their shoes and make you feel exactly how they felt, but because I didn’t connect with anyone, I didn’t get that pleasure. All I know is that the descriptions were realistic and insightful.
Obviously the plot for this one was what interested me and it sounded like a great story. Unfortunately it was too slow in revealing it’s secrets to keep my interest high, and so I began losing interest about the halfway mark. This was a short book but it felt long. I know we were supposed to get to know Oliver and all his troubles and worries in life, but it all felt like waffle. There were no definitive markers in this book to signify any sort of middle event that would lead us to the end event and so until the plot finally revealed itself this felt like one long biography of Oliver, with not a lot going on.
To give this novel credit, elements of the plot and the reveal are very unique to other books I’ve read. And I read a lot of this kinds of books. I suppose you could say the “why” in this book isn’t as dark as you would originally think. It’s almost trivial, I guess.
I sound a bit negative in this review but that’s just because I was so excited about reading it in the first place. In the end, a 3 star rating isn’t the worst thing ever, it’s just not great.
<i>Thank you so much to Ali @The Sunday Feeling for sending me your copy to read!</i>
This novel started strong. It’s first line, “I expected more of a reaction the first time I hit her“, is brutal and shocking, it lures you in in an instant. What I expected to follow was a taut, heart racing novel about why such a “loving husband” would beat his wife into a coma. And, I guess I got the “why” bit, but I didn’t get the taut, heart racing bit. It was snail pace and didn’t really get exciting until the very end.
I saw another reviewer talk about the lack of character in the characters in the novel and she’s right. Considering this whole book was a character study, the people we got to study weren’t that special. I was most interested in Veronique so I was glad she had a good few chapters to herself, but I wasn’t particularly interested in reading about what other people thought of Oliver. Even Oliver’s own chapters could get irritating.
I can’t fault the writing in this one. For a debut, it’s really good! If you connected with the characters, the writing could definitely put you in their shoes and make you feel exactly how they felt, but because I didn’t connect with anyone, I didn’t get that pleasure. All I know is that the descriptions were realistic and insightful.
Obviously the plot for this one was what interested me and it sounded like a great story. Unfortunately it was too slow in revealing it’s secrets to keep my interest high, and so I began losing interest about the halfway mark. This was a short book but it felt long. I know we were supposed to get to know Oliver and all his troubles and worries in life, but it all felt like waffle. There were no definitive markers in this book to signify any sort of middle event that would lead us to the end event and so until the plot finally revealed itself this felt like one long biography of Oliver, with not a lot going on.
To give this novel credit, elements of the plot and the reveal are very unique to other books I’ve read. And I read a lot of this kinds of books. I suppose you could say the “why” in this book isn’t as dark as you would originally think. It’s almost trivial, I guess.
I sound a bit negative in this review but that’s just because I was so excited about reading it in the first place. In the end, a 3 star rating isn’t the worst thing ever, it’s just not great.
<i>Thank you so much to Ali @The Sunday Feeling for sending me your copy to read!</i>