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justabooktrovert's reviews
1094 reviews
Alfie: Part One by Cara Dee
4.0
As the title suggests, this is only half the story; something that became very clear when I hit the ending. (Seriously, that was just cruel. š) But since thereās a second book waiting, I guess I have no choice but to dive in immediately!
This is an MM mafia second-chance romance set in The Irish of Philly world, which includes a mix of MF and MM books. While there are ties to previous characters, Alfie is Kellanās best friend, and Finnegan OāShea leads the Sons of Munster, this book can definitely be read as a starting point for the series.
The story follows Alfie and West, ex-husbands who are still co-parenting. Alfie is wrecked without West, but their marriage didnāt just fall apart for no reason. Alfie never quite fit into the polished, upper-class world West was born into, and he lost himself trying. Now, after the divorce, heās done pretending and heās ready to embrace the family heās always denied for his motherās sake, something West never knew about. Heās not just going to be the Sons of Munsterās assistant anymore. Heās going to become a Son and Finnegan OāShea, the not-so-gentle crime boss is his cousin, it's not that hard to do.
Itās painfully obvious that Alfie and West belong together, but itās also painfully obvious why they didnāt work the first time around. Their reunion isnāt just a given, they have to earn their way back to each other. And I loved that.
My only real gripe? This really couldāve been one book instead of two. But I trust Cara Dee, and Iām already invested enough that I have to see how their story ends.
This is an MM mafia second-chance romance set in The Irish of Philly world, which includes a mix of MF and MM books. While there are ties to previous characters, Alfie is Kellanās best friend, and Finnegan OāShea leads the Sons of Munster, this book can definitely be read as a starting point for the series.
The story follows Alfie and West, ex-husbands who are still co-parenting. Alfie is wrecked without West, but their marriage didnāt just fall apart for no reason. Alfie never quite fit into the polished, upper-class world West was born into, and he lost himself trying. Now, after the divorce, heās done pretending and heās ready to embrace the family heās always denied for his motherās sake, something West never knew about. Heās not just going to be the Sons of Munsterās assistant anymore. Heās going to become a Son and Finnegan OāShea, the not-so-gentle crime boss is his cousin, it's not that hard to do.
Itās painfully obvious that Alfie and West belong together, but itās also painfully obvious why they didnāt work the first time around. Their reunion isnāt just a given, they have to earn their way back to each other. And I loved that.
My only real gripe? This really couldāve been one book instead of two. But I trust Cara Dee, and Iām already invested enough that I have to see how their story ends.
His Revelry by Bailey Nicole
3.5
Okay, yes I know itās March, and Iām reading a Christmas-themed novella. But hey, my TBR pile isnāt going to clear itself, so here we are!
His Revelry is a dark MM novella that follows Roman and Devin, two friends with a complicated, painful past. Told in dual first-person POV, the story weaves between present-day tension and flashbacks to when their relationship first turned physical; an event that immediately tore them apart.
Neither of them has handled it well. In fact, theyāve both been spiraling, but Roman? Roman is completely lost without Devin. Heās drowning in drugs, sleep deprivation, stalking, and some very questionable (okay, straight-up criminal) behavior.
What really hit me with this story was the rawness of it. Both characters come from neglected, abusive backgrounds, and despite everything, they are the only ones who truly understand each other. Thereās so much pain and longing between them, and the way the story explores their toxic but undeniable connection kept me invested.
Since this is a novella, it moves fast, so donāt expect slow-burn or deep character development; but if youāre in the mood for an intense, dark, and messy story, it delivers. Definitely check the trigger warnings before diving in, though. This one doesnāt shy away from the heavy stuff.
Would I reread it? Probably not. But I did enjoy the ride, and if you like dark, emotionally charged MM romances, this might be worth checking out...Christmas season or not! šš„
His Revelry is a dark MM novella that follows Roman and Devin, two friends with a complicated, painful past. Told in dual first-person POV, the story weaves between present-day tension and flashbacks to when their relationship first turned physical; an event that immediately tore them apart.
Neither of them has handled it well. In fact, theyāve both been spiraling, but Roman? Roman is completely lost without Devin. Heās drowning in drugs, sleep deprivation, stalking, and some very questionable (okay, straight-up criminal) behavior.
What really hit me with this story was the rawness of it. Both characters come from neglected, abusive backgrounds, and despite everything, they are the only ones who truly understand each other. Thereās so much pain and longing between them, and the way the story explores their toxic but undeniable connection kept me invested.
Since this is a novella, it moves fast, so donāt expect slow-burn or deep character development; but if youāre in the mood for an intense, dark, and messy story, it delivers. Definitely check the trigger warnings before diving in, though. This one doesnāt shy away from the heavy stuff.
Would I reread it? Probably not. But I did enjoy the ride, and if you like dark, emotionally charged MM romances, this might be worth checking out...Christmas season or not! šš„
Finn by Ashley James
4.5
This book completely took me by surprise in the best way. Finn is the perfect blend of small-town charm, sizzling tension, and heartwarming moments, all wrapped up in a grumpy/sunshine, opposites-attract romance that had me hooked from the start.
Ash is down on his luck when his twin sister throws him a lifeline...a job as a nanny for her boyfriendās young son. Itās not exactly what he had in mind for his next career move, but itās a solid opportunity... even if it means returning to his hometown of Wolf Creek and working for Finn, the broody, no-nonsense cowboy who doesnāt seem too thrilled about having him around.
But Ash isnāt one to back down from a challenge. And the longer he stays, the more he realizes that Finnās sharp glares arenāt just about annoyance,theyāre about frustration. And maybe, just maybe, Finn doesnāt hate him at all. Maybe heās just fighting something heās not quite ready to admit.
The banter between these two? Absolutely top-tier. Finn is all gruff, closed-off energy, while Ash brings the lightness and teasing that slowly starts to break down his walls. Itās the kind of chemistry that simmers until it boils over, delivering a delicious mix of tension, sweetness, and some seriously steamy moments.
If you love:
āļø Grumpy/sunshine dynamics
āļø Small-town cowboys
āļø Opposites attract
āļø Bi-awakening
āļø And a touch of Daddy Kink
Then you need this book in your life! Itās fun, emotional, and just the right amount of spicy.
Ash is down on his luck when his twin sister throws him a lifeline...a job as a nanny for her boyfriendās young son. Itās not exactly what he had in mind for his next career move, but itās a solid opportunity... even if it means returning to his hometown of Wolf Creek and working for Finn, the broody, no-nonsense cowboy who doesnāt seem too thrilled about having him around.
But Ash isnāt one to back down from a challenge. And the longer he stays, the more he realizes that Finnās sharp glares arenāt just about annoyance,theyāre about frustration. And maybe, just maybe, Finn doesnāt hate him at all. Maybe heās just fighting something heās not quite ready to admit.
The banter between these two? Absolutely top-tier. Finn is all gruff, closed-off energy, while Ash brings the lightness and teasing that slowly starts to break down his walls. Itās the kind of chemistry that simmers until it boils over, delivering a delicious mix of tension, sweetness, and some seriously steamy moments.
If you love:
āļø Grumpy/sunshine dynamics
āļø Small-town cowboys
āļø Opposites attract
āļø Bi-awakening
āļø And a touch of Daddy Kink
Then you need this book in your life! Itās fun, emotional, and just the right amount of spicy.
Blinding Light by Lola Malone
4.5
If you're a fan of dark MM sci-fi fantasy romance, Blinding Light is an absolute treat. Set in the universe of Chani Lynn Feenerās Devils of Vitality and Demons of Foxglove Grove series, this book expands on an already fascinating world with a unique planet, an intriguing plot, and characters that completely pulled me in.
Cyprian Creighton has spent his life wondering about his origins. Adopted as a baby, his search for answers leads him to leave his home planet under an assumed name, carrying information he didnāt exactly come by legally. But his journey to Helion doesnāt go unnoticed, especially not by Moargan Zephyranth, the Imperial Prince of Helion.
Moargan is a force of nature; powerful, entitled, and used to getting exactly what he wants. And what he wants? Cyprian. Heās drawn in by the boy with striking yellow eyes and refuses to take no for an answer. What starts as an unfortunate bit of attention from the prince quickly turns into something all-consuming as Moargan invades every part of Cyprianās life, claiming him as his own.
This book had me hooked from the very first page. The dynamic between Cyprian and Moargan is intense, filled with tension, push and pull, and that perfect mix of danger and desire. The world building is rich, the stakes are high, and the dark romance elements add layers of complexity that I couldnāt get enough of.
Iām already obsessed with Chani Lynn Feenerās books as well as Lola Maloneās books, and Lola Malone delivered beautifully within this universe. If youāre a fan of dark, possessive romance and intricate sci-fi settings, youāll love this.
That said, this is a dark romance, so be sure to check the trigger warnings before diving in.
I really hope we get more stories set in this world because Iām not ready to leave Helion just yet!
Cyprian Creighton has spent his life wondering about his origins. Adopted as a baby, his search for answers leads him to leave his home planet under an assumed name, carrying information he didnāt exactly come by legally. But his journey to Helion doesnāt go unnoticed, especially not by Moargan Zephyranth, the Imperial Prince of Helion.
Moargan is a force of nature; powerful, entitled, and used to getting exactly what he wants. And what he wants? Cyprian. Heās drawn in by the boy with striking yellow eyes and refuses to take no for an answer. What starts as an unfortunate bit of attention from the prince quickly turns into something all-consuming as Moargan invades every part of Cyprianās life, claiming him as his own.
This book had me hooked from the very first page. The dynamic between Cyprian and Moargan is intense, filled with tension, push and pull, and that perfect mix of danger and desire. The world building is rich, the stakes are high, and the dark romance elements add layers of complexity that I couldnāt get enough of.
Iām already obsessed with Chani Lynn Feenerās books as well as Lola Maloneās books, and Lola Malone delivered beautifully within this universe. If youāre a fan of dark, possessive romance and intricate sci-fi settings, youāll love this.
That said, this is a dark romance, so be sure to check the trigger warnings before diving in.
I really hope we get more stories set in this world because Iām not ready to leave Helion just yet!
His Enforcer by Cora Rose
4.0
Okay, so the plot kinda took a backseat in this one, but honestly? I didnāt even mind. I was here for Viktor and Luca, and they absolutely delivered. Their chemistry? Off. The. Charts. Every moment between them had me hooked, and letās be real thatās why I picked this up in the first place.
So with the actual story-line left unresolved, I assume it will be resolved in the next story and hopefully not go beyond into another book. I think you can only drag this story-line out so much. Because seriously, how is Henry some untouchable mastermind evading an entire crew of deadly mafia guys? Make it make sense! Still, despite that little hiccup, I was thoroughly entertained, and this series has quickly become a favorite of mine.
And now, with Cora announcing Baneās book and a bodyguard spin-off series on the way? Yeah, Iām already counting down the days. Bring it on!
So with the actual story-line left unresolved, I assume it will be resolved in the next story and hopefully not go beyond into another book. I think you can only drag this story-line out so much. Because seriously, how is Henry some untouchable mastermind evading an entire crew of deadly mafia guys? Make it make sense! Still, despite that little hiccup, I was thoroughly entertained, and this series has quickly become a favorite of mine.
And now, with Cora announcing Baneās book and a bodyguard spin-off series on the way? Yeah, Iām already counting down the days. Bring it on!
The Men From Echo Creek by N.R. Walker
4.5
I love a good historical romance. I also really love NR Walker books as she never disappoints.
Set in 1882, this story follows Albie Bramwell, a nineteen-year-old who suddenly finds himself running his family farm, Echo Creek, after his fatherās unexpected passing. With most of the farmhands gone and the weight of responsibility on his shoulders, everyone assumes heāll fail.
Then along comes Percy Collins; eighteen, hungry, and in need of work. When he helps Albie out in town, Albie offers him a job, and Percy is determined to prove himself. Watching these two navigate life together, build trust, and find their place, both on the farm and with each other was incredibly sweet. Percyās intelligence and quiet strength made him such a standout, and I loved seeing his confidence grow.
This was a heartwarming, swoon-worthy love story with just the right amount of angst and character growth. Albie and Percy completely won me over. Just watching these two men grow into who they are as individuals and as a couple, had me grinning like a fool half the time.
This is a must-read for historical MM romance fans!
Set in 1882, this story follows Albie Bramwell, a nineteen-year-old who suddenly finds himself running his family farm, Echo Creek, after his fatherās unexpected passing. With most of the farmhands gone and the weight of responsibility on his shoulders, everyone assumes heāll fail.
Then along comes Percy Collins; eighteen, hungry, and in need of work. When he helps Albie out in town, Albie offers him a job, and Percy is determined to prove himself. Watching these two navigate life together, build trust, and find their place, both on the farm and with each other was incredibly sweet. Percyās intelligence and quiet strength made him such a standout, and I loved seeing his confidence grow.
This was a heartwarming, swoon-worthy love story with just the right amount of angst and character growth. Albie and Percy completely won me over. Just watching these two men grow into who they are as individuals and as a couple, had me grinning like a fool half the time.
This is a must-read for historical MM romance fans!
The Gods of Chaos and Chance by John Wiltshire
4.0
At this point, Iāve accepted that nothing in this series is ever going to top book one for me, but that doesnāt stop me from devouring every single installment. This series is like a soap opera; pure chaos, endless disasters, and Nik (aka Aleksey) and Ben constantly fighting the odds. And I have to see it through to the end.
Gary Furlongās narration adds so much to the experience. I genuinely enjoy the books more when I listen as I read along, his delivery just works for this series.
As expected, the banter is still sharp and entertaining, and the wild plot twists? Absolutely loved them. Seeing Nik and Ben continue to grow as a couple, now 15 years into their relationship, was one of the best parts. But man, Benās habit of scheming behind Nikās back with Tim and Squeezy instead of having an actual conversation? So frustrating. If he has concerns, why not just talk to Nik instead of making these passive-aggressive side comments? Itās a pattern thatās always annoyed me, and it definitely stood out here.
That said, itās still a solid 4-star read. If youāve made it this far into the series, congrats!
Stay strong.
The finish line is in sight, and we can make it!
Gary Furlongās narration adds so much to the experience. I genuinely enjoy the books more when I listen as I read along, his delivery just works for this series.
As expected, the banter is still sharp and entertaining, and the wild plot twists? Absolutely loved them. Seeing Nik and Ben continue to grow as a couple, now 15 years into their relationship, was one of the best parts. But man, Benās habit of scheming behind Nikās back with Tim and Squeezy instead of having an actual conversation? So frustrating. If he has concerns, why not just talk to Nik instead of making these passive-aggressive side comments? Itās a pattern thatās always annoyed me, and it definitely stood out here.
That said, itās still a solid 4-star read. If youāve made it this far into the series, congrats!
Stay strong.
The finish line is in sight, and we can make it!
Silent Is the Heart by Dianna Roman
4.5
This book was an emotional ride. Itās heartfelt, raw, and deeply compelling. Itās a story about unrequited love, second chances, and forgiveness, but beneath the surface, it carries a weight of trauma, resilience, and the healing power of love. The writing is masterful, pulling you in with vivid descriptions and a depth of emotion that lingers long after you turn the last page.
Eastonā journey from pain and anger as a young teen to love and acceptance as a grown man, was powerful. Heās fiercely loyal, brave, and refuses to let his past define him, which made it so easy to connect with and root for him. His emotions felt so real, and watching him navigate his trauma while still holding onto love made his story incredibly moving.
Aaron, on the other hand, was a bit harder for me to connect with. Compared to Easton, he felt less willing to fight for their love, and at times, I wanted him to step up more. That said, the tension between them, the push and pull, and the emotional depth kept me engaged the whole way through.
This book isnāt just a romanceā¦itās a story of healing, growth, and learning to trust again. Beautifully written and full of feeling, itās one that stays with you.
Eastonā journey from pain and anger as a young teen to love and acceptance as a grown man, was powerful. Heās fiercely loyal, brave, and refuses to let his past define him, which made it so easy to connect with and root for him. His emotions felt so real, and watching him navigate his trauma while still holding onto love made his story incredibly moving.
Aaron, on the other hand, was a bit harder for me to connect with. Compared to Easton, he felt less willing to fight for their love, and at times, I wanted him to step up more. That said, the tension between them, the push and pull, and the emotional depth kept me engaged the whole way through.
This book isnāt just a romanceā¦itās a story of healing, growth, and learning to trust again. Beautifully written and full of feeling, itās one that stays with you.
The Paths Less Travelled by John Wiltshire
4.5
Iām really loving this āseason 2ā of the More Heat Than The Sun series. Itās like getting a backstage pass to Aleksey and Benās lives after their supposed HEAā¦ Although did we really think these two would get a quiet, peaceful ending? Of course not. They canāt go five minutes without some kind of chaos finding them. But honestly? Thatās part of the draw of this series.
This time, though, the chaos hits a little closer to home. After everything we collectively went through in 2020-2021, the storyline doesnāt feel quite as far-fetched as some of their previous adventures. And I love seeing the Rider-Mikkelsen found family continue to grow; watching them navigate their unconventional, dangerous, yet deeply loving dynamic is always a highlight.
As always, Gary Furlong absolutely nails the narration. I canāt imagine anyone else bringing these characters to life the way he does. He captures all the emotion, tension, and dark humor that make this series so addictive.
One thing that did leave me scratching my head, where the heck did Billy from the lighthouse go? In the last book, so much time was spent trying to get access to the lighthouse, and now, thanks to Billy, they finally canā¦ but then he just disappears? By the end, theyāre casually coming and going from the place with zero mention of him. I really hope we get some answers in the next book because I actually liked his brief but memorable presence.
All in all, The Path Less Traveled delivers exactly what I wantedā¦more of Aleksey and Ben being their chaotic, beautifully complicated selves, more family, more danger, and more of that signature Wiltshire intensity. If you loved the original series, this continuation is a must-read.
This time, though, the chaos hits a little closer to home. After everything we collectively went through in 2020-2021, the storyline doesnāt feel quite as far-fetched as some of their previous adventures. And I love seeing the Rider-Mikkelsen found family continue to grow; watching them navigate their unconventional, dangerous, yet deeply loving dynamic is always a highlight.
As always, Gary Furlong absolutely nails the narration. I canāt imagine anyone else bringing these characters to life the way he does. He captures all the emotion, tension, and dark humor that make this series so addictive.
One thing that did leave me scratching my head, where the heck did Billy from the lighthouse go? In the last book, so much time was spent trying to get access to the lighthouse, and now, thanks to Billy, they finally canā¦ but then he just disappears? By the end, theyāre casually coming and going from the place with zero mention of him. I really hope we get some answers in the next book because I actually liked his brief but memorable presence.
All in all, The Path Less Traveled delivers exactly what I wantedā¦more of Aleksey and Ben being their chaotic, beautifully complicated selves, more family, more danger, and more of that signature Wiltshire intensity. If you loved the original series, this continuation is a must-read.