Search
Search results
Merissa (11584 KP) rated The Goldilocks Principle in Books
Jul 29, 2023
Goldilocks retelling, MM style
THE GOLDILOCKS PRINCIPLE is a standalone story about Elijah Goldwyn (who has blond curly hair) and Tristan (a French soap actor) who both meet in Provincetown and sparks fly.
The story itself was good and I enjoyed it. It is smoothly paced with a stack of supporting characters that help move it along. The town itself is a charming setting and, in my opinion, Iris, Frank, and Isy were the best characters!
I found it to have quite a bit of 'tell' instead of 'show' though - the whole thing with Quentin, Clara, and the parents, which led to a bit of a disconnect with the main characters. I was unable to immerse myself in the story even though I wanted to. There were also a few parts where I disliked how one of the main characters was acting or behaving.
I think a lot of people will thoroughly enjoy this story, and loved how Goldilocks is brought into this MM Romance. It just wasn't the book for me in the ways I'd hoped.
** same worded review will appear elsewhere **
* A copy of this book was provided to me with no requirements for a review. I voluntarily read this book; the comments here are my honest opinion. *
Merissa
Archaeolibrarian - I Dig Good Books!
Jul 29, 2023
The story itself was good and I enjoyed it. It is smoothly paced with a stack of supporting characters that help move it along. The town itself is a charming setting and, in my opinion, Iris, Frank, and Isy were the best characters!
I found it to have quite a bit of 'tell' instead of 'show' though - the whole thing with Quentin, Clara, and the parents, which led to a bit of a disconnect with the main characters. I was unable to immerse myself in the story even though I wanted to. There were also a few parts where I disliked how one of the main characters was acting or behaving.
I think a lot of people will thoroughly enjoy this story, and loved how Goldilocks is brought into this MM Romance. It just wasn't the book for me in the ways I'd hoped.
** same worded review will appear elsewhere **
* A copy of this book was provided to me with no requirements for a review. I voluntarily read this book; the comments here are my honest opinion. *
Merissa
Archaeolibrarian - I Dig Good Books!
Jul 29, 2023
Merissa (11584 KP) rated Fated Mates: an MM Paranormal Romance Charity Anthology in Books
Aug 23, 2023
Part of Fated Mates: an MM Paranormal Romance Charity Anthology!
One thing I love about J.P. Sayle stories is that she comes up with different shifters and problems. For instance, in A SCENT LIKE NO OTHER, Pierre is a skunk shifter and has faulty anal glands. Now, hand on heart, I can honestly say I've never read about either of those before. I'm just glad he wasn't called Pepé! 😁
Along with Pierre, we have Eliphas, a mage who works well with his ancestors' crystals, as well as being an amazing tattoo artist, specialising in protection. Pierre knows they are a triad, but it comes as a shock to Eli. This leads to cross-purposes, as Eli isn't sure he'd be happy with a third, not when he has Pierre. But Pierre has always known and, now he's got Eli, he wants to know when they'll meet their third. This leads to Pierre doing a spell without Eli's knowledge, which opens a whole can of worms he wasn't expecting.
A great introduction to these two characters, and I look forward to reading more.
** same worded review will appear elsewhere **
* A copy of this book was provided to me with no requirements for a review. I voluntarily read this book; the comments here are my honest opinion. *
Merissa
Archaeolibrarian - I Dig Good Books!
Aug 23, 2023
One thing I love about J.P. Sayle stories is that she comes up with different shifters and problems. For instance, in A SCENT LIKE NO OTHER, Pierre is a skunk shifter and has faulty anal glands. Now, hand on heart, I can honestly say I've never read about either of those before. I'm just glad he wasn't called Pepé! 😁
Along with Pierre, we have Eliphas, a mage who works well with his ancestors' crystals, as well as being an amazing tattoo artist, specialising in protection. Pierre knows they are a triad, but it comes as a shock to Eli. This leads to cross-purposes, as Eli isn't sure he'd be happy with a third, not when he has Pierre. But Pierre has always known and, now he's got Eli, he wants to know when they'll meet their third. This leads to Pierre doing a spell without Eli's knowledge, which opens a whole can of worms he wasn't expecting.
A great introduction to these two characters, and I look forward to reading more.
** same worded review will appear elsewhere **
* A copy of this book was provided to me with no requirements for a review. I voluntarily read this book; the comments here are my honest opinion. *
Merissa
Archaeolibrarian - I Dig Good Books!
Aug 23, 2023
Merissa (11584 KP) rated Walk With Me (Home #7) in Books
Oct 18, 2023
Walk With Me is the last book in the Home series, and we finish with Eli and Seth. Eli has wanted Seth ever since he first laid eyes on him at the tender age of 11. Seth didn't have much to do with Eli then, and only really comes into frequent contact with him when he becomes an associate Rabbi, working with Eli's dad.
These two have an insta-love AND slow-burn romance, and it was perfect for them. I loved how Eli decided he would sooner have Seth's friendship than lose him. This is a funny book, with some absolutely hilarious weddings! Poor Seth is all I can say. Throughout all the capers and calamities that occur, Eli is there for Seth, and vice versa.
As I would expect from a Cardeno C. book, there were no editing or grammatical errors that disrupted my reading flow. The pacing was smooth, with a rich and detailed storyline that was backed up by fully fleshed-out characters with their own quirks.
Sad to see this series end, but at least I can now re-read them all. Definitely recommended by me.
* A copy of this book was provided to me with no requirements for a review. I voluntarily read this book, and the comments here are my honest opinion. *
Merissa
Archaeolibrarian - I Dig Good Books!
Sep 28, 2018
These two have an insta-love AND slow-burn romance, and it was perfect for them. I loved how Eli decided he would sooner have Seth's friendship than lose him. This is a funny book, with some absolutely hilarious weddings! Poor Seth is all I can say. Throughout all the capers and calamities that occur, Eli is there for Seth, and vice versa.
As I would expect from a Cardeno C. book, there were no editing or grammatical errors that disrupted my reading flow. The pacing was smooth, with a rich and detailed storyline that was backed up by fully fleshed-out characters with their own quirks.
Sad to see this series end, but at least I can now re-read them all. Definitely recommended by me.
* A copy of this book was provided to me with no requirements for a review. I voluntarily read this book, and the comments here are my honest opinion. *
Merissa
Archaeolibrarian - I Dig Good Books!
Sep 28, 2018
Lyndsey Gollogly (2893 KP) rated Sirens Desire ( Dark Tides book 3) in Books
Jan 3, 2022
2 of 230
Kindle
Sirens Desire ( Dark k Tides book 3)
By Devyn Quinn
After defeating the covert agency that threatened to destroy her and her sisters, Addison Lonike grudgingly resumes her life as an EMT in Maine. She would love nothing more than to take on the dangerous Mer queen, Magaera, who is hell-bent on destroying them. But with two baby nieces on the way, she can't take the risk - that is, until Mason McKenzie arrives.
Captain of the naval task force on the hunt for Queen Magaera in the Mediterranean, Mason sees the perfect recruit in Addison. But while at sea, the pair is pulled under a wave of passion that threatens their independent natures - and their mission. An encounter with a new race of male sea-shifters further complicates Addison's desires. Now, she must choose between a life of the sea or fulfilling the deepest longings of her heart..
This is the last book in The Dark Tides series and it was overall a good book it didn’t quite blow me away but it concluded the series nicely. The series on a whole was really good following 3 sister who have to deal with people learning their secrets, they go through love loss and betrayal. It’s definitely worth it if you like mermaid centered romance.
Kindle
Sirens Desire ( Dark k Tides book 3)
By Devyn Quinn
After defeating the covert agency that threatened to destroy her and her sisters, Addison Lonike grudgingly resumes her life as an EMT in Maine. She would love nothing more than to take on the dangerous Mer queen, Magaera, who is hell-bent on destroying them. But with two baby nieces on the way, she can't take the risk - that is, until Mason McKenzie arrives.
Captain of the naval task force on the hunt for Queen Magaera in the Mediterranean, Mason sees the perfect recruit in Addison. But while at sea, the pair is pulled under a wave of passion that threatens their independent natures - and their mission. An encounter with a new race of male sea-shifters further complicates Addison's desires. Now, she must choose between a life of the sea or fulfilling the deepest longings of her heart..
This is the last book in The Dark Tides series and it was overall a good book it didn’t quite blow me away but it concluded the series nicely. The series on a whole was really good following 3 sister who have to deal with people learning their secrets, they go through love loss and betrayal. It’s definitely worth it if you like mermaid centered romance.
Merissa (11584 KP) rated Winning Move (Clover Hill Romance #1) in Books
Aug 18, 2022
Clover Hill is a wonderful place to be!
WINNING MOVE is the first book in the Clover Hill Romance series and we are introduced to a queer-friendly small town. Gina retreated back there when her divorce came through and she's happy with her life. She isn't interested in dating or having a partner. Her life is shaken up when she rescues Marek from the side of the road. He is everything she likes but doesn't want.
Told from both perspectives, it is Gina in the driving seat. Marek knows what he wants but respects Gina's decision. I loved the back and forth between the two of them, the easy camaraderie tinged with heat.
The pace is smooth and the story flows, giving a little suspense regarding Gina's niece in amongst the low-angst relationship drama. The conversations all seem natural and easy, whether it's between Gina and Marek or any of the other characters.
This was a great little story and I can't wait to return to Clover Hill and see what happens next. Definitely recommended by me.
** same worded review will appear elsewhere **
* A copy of this book was provided to me with no requirements for a review. I voluntarily read this book, and the comments here are my honest opinion. *
Merissa
Archaeolibrarian - I Dig Good Books!
Told from both perspectives, it is Gina in the driving seat. Marek knows what he wants but respects Gina's decision. I loved the back and forth between the two of them, the easy camaraderie tinged with heat.
The pace is smooth and the story flows, giving a little suspense regarding Gina's niece in amongst the low-angst relationship drama. The conversations all seem natural and easy, whether it's between Gina and Marek or any of the other characters.
This was a great little story and I can't wait to return to Clover Hill and see what happens next. Definitely recommended by me.
** same worded review will appear elsewhere **
* A copy of this book was provided to me with no requirements for a review. I voluntarily read this book, and the comments here are my honest opinion. *
Merissa
Archaeolibrarian - I Dig Good Books!
Lyndsey Gollogly (2893 KP) rated Heart of the Hunter (Dragon Chalice, #1) in Books
Oct 23, 2022
195 of 230
Kindle
Heart of the Hunter ( Dragon Chalice book 1)
By Tina St.John (Lara Adrian)
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶🌶🌶
Ariana of Clairmont would risk anything to save her kidnapped brother, a quest she knows is fraught with peril. Her only ally is Braedon le Chasseur, a formidable knight with a mysterious past, whose scarred face and brooding nature mask a soul filled with pain. Ariana fears this dangerous man and the secrets he strives to conceal - but Braedon's touch is pure seduction, his kiss a potent lure that tempts her into a passion she is powerless to resist.
Once known as The Hunter, now haunted by a dark legacy he struggles to deny, Braedon lives in a world of shadow and isolation - until he is thrust together with an innocent beauty in need of his protection. Embarking on a journey that will lead them to a legendary treasure, Braedon will be forced to confront old enemies and the stunning secret of his true nature - or risk losing Ariana and the only happiness he has ever known. . . .
I really enjoyed this book. It was historical romance with a bit of magic thrown in. It was spicy in a hot romantic way. I love Lara Adrian she never fails to bring us a good love story with the type of villains you hate forever. Recommended!
Kindle
Heart of the Hunter ( Dragon Chalice book 1)
By Tina St.John (Lara Adrian)
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶🌶🌶
Ariana of Clairmont would risk anything to save her kidnapped brother, a quest she knows is fraught with peril. Her only ally is Braedon le Chasseur, a formidable knight with a mysterious past, whose scarred face and brooding nature mask a soul filled with pain. Ariana fears this dangerous man and the secrets he strives to conceal - but Braedon's touch is pure seduction, his kiss a potent lure that tempts her into a passion she is powerless to resist.
Once known as The Hunter, now haunted by a dark legacy he struggles to deny, Braedon lives in a world of shadow and isolation - until he is thrust together with an innocent beauty in need of his protection. Embarking on a journey that will lead them to a legendary treasure, Braedon will be forced to confront old enemies and the stunning secret of his true nature - or risk losing Ariana and the only happiness he has ever known. . . .
I really enjoyed this book. It was historical romance with a bit of magic thrown in. It was spicy in a hot romantic way. I love Lara Adrian she never fails to bring us a good love story with the type of villains you hate forever. Recommended!
Merissa (11584 KP) rated Alpha Shaman (Bad Oak Boys #2) in Books
May 20, 2023
Josh thinks that he is human, although he is aware of the werewolf gene in his family. However, when he starts having strange dreams and shedding fur, he admits he might be in trouble. He rings Ryan (his brother) who sends out a Shaman who will help him. When Josh and Gerwulf first meet, the wolves both agree that they have found their mates, although the human halves still need convincing. Evil is on the way though, so they may not have as much time as they would like.
This is the first of the Bad Oak Boys that I have read, although I didn't feel that it negatively impacted my enjoyment in any way. Alpha Shaman is full of action, romance, and yes, even grief. I could understand Gerwulf's hang-ups from his past and liked how he worked through them, with Josh's help. Josh and Gerwulf are both excellent characters, well-rounded and with their own quirks.
I have enjoyed this story, and am now looking forward to reading Rock Star Baby, which is book one in this series.
* A copy of this book was provided to me with no requirements for a review. I voluntarily read this book, and my comments here are my honest opinion. *
Merissa
Archaeolibrarian - I Dig Good Books!
Feb 11, 2016
This is the first of the Bad Oak Boys that I have read, although I didn't feel that it negatively impacted my enjoyment in any way. Alpha Shaman is full of action, romance, and yes, even grief. I could understand Gerwulf's hang-ups from his past and liked how he worked through them, with Josh's help. Josh and Gerwulf are both excellent characters, well-rounded and with their own quirks.
I have enjoyed this story, and am now looking forward to reading Rock Star Baby, which is book one in this series.
* A copy of this book was provided to me with no requirements for a review. I voluntarily read this book, and my comments here are my honest opinion. *
Merissa
Archaeolibrarian - I Dig Good Books!
Feb 11, 2016
Merissa (11584 KP) rated The Reapers (The Hunted #1) in Books
May 20, 2023
This is a fast-paced and enjoyable Young Adult Paranormal, with a splash of Romance in the shape of a love triangle (sort of) thrown in.
Nivian has been doing her job for years with no problems when she suddenly starts noticing a man there each time. What is worse is that he seems to notice her too, which should be impossible. Then Reapers start disappearing, and the common link is that man that Nivian keeps seeing. Following conversations with Caspian (her boss... sort of) she finds out just who and what he is. Things are not always black and white though, and both Kain and Nivian have choices to make.
There were parts to this story that I absolutely loved, and parts not so much. I am not a fan of the triangle, even a version like this one. It builds up to a climactic ending where you will need to keep your wits about you as you move swiftly from one scene to another.
If you want a clean Paranormal that has a brilliant take on reapers, old man time, scythes, etc, then I can recommend this.
* A copy of this book was provided to me with no requirements for a review. I voluntarily read this book, and my comments here are my honest opinion. *
Merissa
Archaeolibrarian - I Dig Good Books!
Feb 15, 2016
Nivian has been doing her job for years with no problems when she suddenly starts noticing a man there each time. What is worse is that he seems to notice her too, which should be impossible. Then Reapers start disappearing, and the common link is that man that Nivian keeps seeing. Following conversations with Caspian (her boss... sort of) she finds out just who and what he is. Things are not always black and white though, and both Kain and Nivian have choices to make.
There were parts to this story that I absolutely loved, and parts not so much. I am not a fan of the triangle, even a version like this one. It builds up to a climactic ending where you will need to keep your wits about you as you move swiftly from one scene to another.
If you want a clean Paranormal that has a brilliant take on reapers, old man time, scythes, etc, then I can recommend this.
* A copy of this book was provided to me with no requirements for a review. I voluntarily read this book, and my comments here are my honest opinion. *
Merissa
Archaeolibrarian - I Dig Good Books!
Feb 15, 2016
ClareR (5542 KP) rated Henry VIII: The Heart and the Crown in Books
Jun 6, 2023
I really enjoy Alison Weir’s storytelling. I always know that I’m going to get a book that I can really sink my teeth into. I’m a big big book fan, through and through - how on earth can you write a short book about a monarch like Henry VIII?! Six wives, heads being chopped off, wars, reconciliations, breaking from the Catholic Church, hunting, sporting and womanising! I’m sure there’s more - and it’s all in the book!
It’s interesting to hear the story of his life from his own (fictionalised) point of view. We’ve seen what his wives think of him, and here we get to read what he thinks of himself. It’s a lot, by the way.
For the fact collectors (🙋🏼♀️) this is a real treat, and Weir has really done her research. There’s plenty of (Henry’s version of) romance - most chivalrous!
This kept me turning the pages throughout. I will admit, I listened to this at the same time on a NetGalley audiobook that came through as I started reading on The Pigeonhole. And it really added to the experience. The narrator, Elliot Fitzpatrick, was perfect. He brought Henry to life again, as well as the other characters. He was really “listenable” to (is that even a word?).
So, thanks to The Pigeonhole and Headline both - it was a really enjoyable experience!
It’s interesting to hear the story of his life from his own (fictionalised) point of view. We’ve seen what his wives think of him, and here we get to read what he thinks of himself. It’s a lot, by the way.
For the fact collectors (🙋🏼♀️) this is a real treat, and Weir has really done her research. There’s plenty of (Henry’s version of) romance - most chivalrous!
This kept me turning the pages throughout. I will admit, I listened to this at the same time on a NetGalley audiobook that came through as I started reading on The Pigeonhole. And it really added to the experience. The narrator, Elliot Fitzpatrick, was perfect. He brought Henry to life again, as well as the other characters. He was really “listenable” to (is that even a word?).
So, thanks to The Pigeonhole and Headline both - it was a really enjoyable experience!
Merissa (11584 KP) rated Awakened by Fire (Dragons of Bloodfire #2) in Books
May 8, 2021 (Updated Jun 8, 2023)
In the second book of the series, we return to the world of the Bloodkin. In this instalment, we meet Warrick, the face of the Triad and one of the 'young' dragons at only one hundred and forty plus years. He is at his mother's home for a wedding in the family and is reunited with 'Sammy', a human child from his past. However, he soon realises that Sammy has grown up into Samantha, and he is all the more interested. The heat gets turned up when threats are made against the family and Samantha's secret is exposed to Warrick's mother, who makes her promise to help him.
This is a fast-paced, well-written book, with a romance that is a slow burner. They actually know each other from the past, but take time to know each in the now before anything happens. The difference between how a dragon thinks and how a human does is clearly demonstrated.
Recommended for all fans of adult dragon stories, with an intriguing world that continues to excite and thrill with each book.
* A copy of this book was provided to me with no requirements for a review. I voluntarily read this book, and the comments here are my honest opinion. *
Merissa
Archaeolibrarian - I Dig Good Books!
May 26, 2016
This is a fast-paced, well-written book, with a romance that is a slow burner. They actually know each other from the past, but take time to know each in the now before anything happens. The difference between how a dragon thinks and how a human does is clearly demonstrated.
Recommended for all fans of adult dragon stories, with an intriguing world that continues to excite and thrill with each book.
* A copy of this book was provided to me with no requirements for a review. I voluntarily read this book, and the comments here are my honest opinion. *
Merissa
Archaeolibrarian - I Dig Good Books!
May 26, 2016