Take a photo of a barcode or cover
mollyreadsandcrafts's reviews
942 reviews
Test Drive by Riley Hart
3.75
This was a super enjoyable read! I loved Justin and Drew's relationship, though Justin's dad being sick put kind of a bummer on the whole story. Such a great relationship though, through good and bad times.
Justin is going through a whole heck of a lot. His dad is dying from cancer, he finds out he has family he never knew existed, and he moves to a whole new place to be with them at the end of his father's life. It's sad and angsty but then comes along sweet Drew. They had such a great connection from the beginning. Justin is struggling and can't really deal with his new feelings but Drew is there to support him and be there for him no matter what. They are so open and honest about what they can give to each other and are so genuine. They laugh together, support one another, have great chemistry, and are just really compatible.
With Justin's dad being sick some of the plot seemed kind of repetitive. Lots of similar feelings being felt all the time, and like I said just kind of a bummer. But I did really enjoy their relationship, they had so many sweet moments. And of course seeing all our favorites from the previous books!
Read if you like:
• hurt/comfort
• grief & family sickness
• new/found family
Justin is going through a whole heck of a lot. His dad is dying from cancer, he finds out he has family he never knew existed, and he moves to a whole new place to be with them at the end of his father's life. It's sad and angsty but then comes along sweet Drew. They had such a great connection from the beginning. Justin is struggling and can't really deal with his new feelings but Drew is there to support him and be there for him no matter what. They are so open and honest about what they can give to each other and are so genuine. They laugh together, support one another, have great chemistry, and are just really compatible.
With Justin's dad being sick some of the plot seemed kind of repetitive. Lots of similar feelings being felt all the time, and like I said just kind of a bummer. But I did really enjoy their relationship, they had so many sweet moments. And of course seeing all our favorites from the previous books!
Read if you like:
• hurt/comfort
• grief & family sickness
• new/found family
Crossroads by Riley Hart
4.25
Nick is recently divorced and starting to live life on his own when he meets his new neighbor, Bryce. They quickly form a close friendship that surprises them both by turning into something more, and turns their lives upside down.
My favorite thing about this book is how their relationship seemed so realistic. I love reading about little mundane things that people connect over that help create a solid base for a relationship. It's not trauma bonding, childhood friends or any other kind of previous relationship/feelings, or just a physical outlet. It's a pure connection based on compatibility, honesty, and communication. It's hanging out every day when you get home, even for a few minutes to just chat. It's bringing over extra food because you have too much. It's the little things that really add up and that's exactly how their relationship started and why I think it was so strong through all their struggles.
Nick and Bryce definitely had their own insecurities, but I think their opposite personalities balanced out their relationship. Sometimes I was frustrated with Nick, sometimes Bryce, but overall I liked them a lot. They dealt with so many external factors so early into their relationship, but I'm glad they stayed strong with each other. I've read a lot of books lately that just gloss over some of the harder aspects of introducing a new relationship that isn't like their previous ones, so it was different to see the intimate details of the families' struggles (for different reasons).
I wish there was a little more lead up to the "oh dang we have feelings" part, but of course Bryce had to run headfirst into it like always. I also didn't love how they just assumed they were gay because that was "the only answer to being attracted to a guy". They researched all the sex but didn't really take time to research anything else? Just little parts that made me go "meh I wish that was handled better".
I've wanted to start Riley Hart's back list for a while, I'm a fan of their writing and characters and this didn't disappoint!
Read if you like:
• friends to lovers
• neighbors
• opposites attract
My favorite thing about this book is how their relationship seemed so realistic. I love reading about little mundane things that people connect over that help create a solid base for a relationship. It's not trauma bonding, childhood friends or any other kind of previous relationship/feelings, or just a physical outlet. It's a pure connection based on compatibility, honesty, and communication. It's hanging out every day when you get home, even for a few minutes to just chat. It's bringing over extra food because you have too much. It's the little things that really add up and that's exactly how their relationship started and why I think it was so strong through all their struggles.
Nick and Bryce definitely had their own insecurities, but I think their opposite personalities balanced out their relationship. Sometimes I was frustrated with Nick, sometimes Bryce, but overall I liked them a lot. They dealt with so many external factors so early into their relationship, but I'm glad they stayed strong with each other. I've read a lot of books lately that just gloss over some of the harder aspects of introducing a new relationship that isn't like their previous ones, so it was different to see the intimate details of the families' struggles (for different reasons).
I wish there was a little more lead up to the "oh dang we have feelings" part, but of course Bryce had to run headfirst into it like always. I also didn't love how they just assumed they were gay because that was "the only answer to being attracted to a guy". They researched all the sex but didn't really take time to research anything else? Just little parts that made me go "meh I wish that was handled better".
I've wanted to start Riley Hart's back list for a while, I'm a fan of their writing and characters and this didn't disappoint!
Read if you like:
• friends to lovers
• neighbors
• opposites attract
The Creek by Riley Hart
4.25
Two years after his divorce, August moves him and his son Reese to his old childhood hometown in Briar County to try to reconnect. When Clint runs into his first ever best friend and first crush, he's hit with all his past feelings. They've never forgotten one another and even with the changes in their lives they still fall back into their easy friendship. When their feelings become stronger, they have to figure out how to navigate the obstacles thrown their way or risk losing each other a second time.
August and Clint's story starts in the prologue with a sweet, childhood infatuation that breaks your heart a little. When they reconnect it's like nothing had changed, except they had lived so much between then and now. August worries about all the changes and how it affects his son, but Clint is there to reassure him he's doing the best he can. Clint has casually dated, never settled, but August is the only person to ever make him feel strongly enough to want to try. They both care so much and are constantly trying to show each other how amazing the other is. Their relationship is honest, effortless, and it forms a bond so deep that they would do anything for one another.
While this was a little lower on the drama than the others in the series, I'm pretty sure it's the spiciest so far. Clint and August just have an undeniable connection. It was so sweet to see Reese slowly trusting Clint and seeking his advice and befriending the other kids. I love seeing the little found family that's formed since the first book, they have so much support for one another. Definitely teared up at the big bonfire moment for one of our couples. There's no doubt who this last book is going to be about, it seems like we've been waiting since Firefly Lane to see what happens with one of the characters. I don't want this series to end, but I'm looking forward to reading the final book!
Read if you like:
• second chance
• single dad
• small town romance
•••••••••••••••••••••
August and Clint's story starts in the prologue with a sweet, childhood infatuation that breaks your heart a little. When they reconnect it's like nothing had changed, except they had lived so much between then and now. August worries about all the changes and how it affects his son, but Clint is there to reassure him he's doing the best he can. Clint has casually dated, never settled, but August is the only person to ever make him feel strongly enough to want to try. They both care so much and are constantly trying to show each other how amazing the other is. Their relationship is honest, effortless, and it forms a bond so deep that they would do anything for one another.
While this was a little lower on the drama than the others in the series, I'm pretty sure it's the spiciest so far. Clint and August just have an undeniable connection. It was so sweet to see Reese slowly trusting Clint and seeking his advice and befriending the other kids. I love seeing the little found family that's formed since the first book, they have so much support for one another. Definitely teared up at the big bonfire moment for one of our couples. There's no doubt who this last book is going to be about, it seems like we've been waiting since Firefly Lane to see what happens with one of the characters. I don't want this series to end, but I'm looking forward to reading the final book!
Read if you like:
• second chance
• single dad
• small town romance
•••••••••••••••••••••
A Friend in the Dark by Gregory Ashe, C.S. Poe
4.0
Rufus is a confidential informant living in the underbelly of NYC when his friend and police contact, Jake, is murdered. Sam is an old friend who served with Jake in the army. When he hears that Jake's death is ruled a suicide, he goes to NYC looking for answers. The more they learn about his death the more they get caught up dangerous secrets until they become targets themselves.
Rufus was so endearing and I'm a big fan (for Ashe readers - he reminds me of a Jem/Shaw mix). He's been alone most of his life and is a bit lost when the one constant person he had is killed. He's quirky, touch starved, but is such a kind soul. Sam slowly grew on me. He's more the brash, stubborn macho type which made it all the sweeter when he gets so protective over Rufus. He has his own issues he's dealing with and I hope we get a bit more backstory on him (and Rufus) in future books.
The relationship happened kind of quickly even though they had a little zing from the first moment they met. They know exactly how to push each other's buttons but also take the time to understand all the little quirks. When they finally give into their emotions they are so cute and you can tell they really care about each other. There's a lot more for them to learn about one another and with that ending it'll be interesting to see where they go from here.
I'm not sure overall if it was particularly good, but I liked it? Both of the characters had endearing moments and I wanted to know more about them. The pace kicked off on page 1 and kept moving, being pretty consistent throughout the whole book. The case was really relevant to their characters and introducing everything into the story so every aspect kept my attention. It just all felt a bit superficial, and as much as I enjoyed the characters and plot it didn't really give me any big emotions. I've been to New York City twice in my adult life so some of the places they mention just flew right over my head, but I could still get the gist of what was happening. It surprisingly ended on a little bit of a cliffhanger, and I'm immediately diving into the next!
Read if you like:
• romantic suspense
• opposites attract
• slow burn
•••••••••••••••••••••
By the Book by Gregory Ashe
3.75
When Dash's parents turn up to Hastings Rock at the same time a valuable book goes missing, Dash has to help solve the case while trying not to commit his own familial murder.
I love reading about Dash and whatever shenanigans he gets up to, but this wasn't my favorite of The Last Picks series. The focus of this installment was on Dash and his relationship with his parents more than anything. And I did not like his parents. Dash has some abandonment issues because they were pretty crappy parents when he was growing up, and I don't really think they really acknowledged that enough. They realized they made mistakes in the present, but didn't really touch what happened before. But maybe I'm just not an evolved enough human to forgive and move on, and they aren't my parents. The whole situation did show how much Dash has grown since the beginning of the series, more ready to face his issues head on than run away and bury the problems. Yay progress!
The case was okay, but it seemed a bit irrelevant. Just a bit of background noise. I'm so happy that Bobby and Dash are finally together but I really wish we got more of their relationship now that it's in a good place! However, they did have some great moments of communication. I also wish we had a bit more of the Last Picks. It seems this book left me wanting, but overall I did like it. I like how Ashe writes his cozy series - the humor is always a good time and character development is always great to read. I say this every review but I love the setting and how all the side characters, no matter how small, round out the story so well. And that bonus epilogue? Absolutely adorable. I hope we get more of those types of moments in the next book!
Read if you like:
• small town
• cozy mystery
• found family
• friends to lovers
•••••••••••••••••••••
The Mechanics of Lust by Jay Hogan
3.75
Luke moves to Mackenzie Country in the hopes that it'll help heal him from his loss the same way it helped his ex-husband. After being rejected my the man he thought he loved and leaving his family's station, Zach is trying to figure out his next steps. Zach has never liked Luke on principle, but soon realizes that he may have been too quick to judge.
Zach and Luke get off to a rocky start but their attraction to one another is undeniable. Zach is cautious about giving his heart out again, but Luke is so patient and caring. He was willing to fight for them because Zach makes him feel something for the first time since his loss. Even though both been hurt in the past, they support one another as they take the time to heal and move forward with their lives. Luke has unwavering support for all of Zach's hopes and dreams, and Zach is the rock Luke can lean on when he's grieving. They have some of the sweetest moments but also some frustrating ones. It makes sense why they take it slow with all the issues they need to work out, but when they are together it's a perfect mix of swoony and spicy.
I liked the story and characters, it was just long and slow paced so it took me forever to get through. I think Hogan's writing can be a bit more dense than what I usually read so even though I like the book, I did struggle of getting through the slower parts. That being said, it's a sweet, emotional read and I did tear up a time or two. I loved seeing Holden and Gil again, as well as more of the Mackenzie Country scenery. I know a few more characters have stories, and I'm looking forward to seeing how their happily ever afters unfold!
Read if you like:
• small town romance
• hurt/comfort
• dislike/hate to love
•••••••••••••••••••••
The Kiss Principle by Gregory Ashe
5.0
•spoilers•
Fer is about to take off on a well deserved break when Chuy leaves a surprise in his kitchen. Now that he's caring for a newborn, working full time, and trying to keep his family afloat, Fer is desperate for help. He hires Zé as his new nanny. The more time they spend living together and raising Igz, the more Fer falls for the mysterious surfer boy. But being with Zé means Fer can't always be there for his family, and breaking that habit proves to be almost impossible.
I was a little nervous about Fer's book. I absolutely love Theo and Auggie, and Fer, while highly entertaining, seemed like a very big personality to read a whole book from his point of view. However, I adored Fer and Zé. Fer is the support system for his entire family, taking on all of their issues while putting his life and dreams on hold. He's had to care for Auggie from a young age, shielding him from their mother's emotional and mental instability and abuse, all the while also trying to keep Chuy safe from his addiction. When everything hits the fan, he's saved by sweet and patient Zé.
Zé becomes a steady presence that Fer can lean on. He never expects anything from Fer, but is there to give him unwavering support and help with Igz. They both push each other to put themselves and their own happiness first. Zé has his own stubborn independence and trauma he's recovering from. Of course with Fer there's no beating around the bush, and he makes Zé confront some of his issues and gives him a safe space to land as he recovers. They had to face some harsh realities but both came out the other side better for it.
It was kind of refreshing reading a Gregory Ashe contemporary romance without all the murder and mayhem (well, there's still some mayhem). He creates such loving, funny, endearing characters that you can't help but to root for. Fer and his Fer-isms are hilarious but don't overtake his kind, emotional side. I loved seeing Fer's huge heart and am so happy he was able to grab some happiness for himself. I also loved that Auggie was able to be there for him after Fer's been there for Auggie his whole life. It's a five star read for the vibes, but I do wish the ending was a little stronger. I would've liked to get a little more about Zé and what he was going through and their reconciliation. My hope is that one day we are lucky enough for another Fer and Zé story!
Read if you like:
• sexual awakening
• hurt/comfort
• opposites attract
•••••••••••••••••••••
Gray by Jaclyn Osborn
3.75
•possible spoilers for previous books•
I do like Gray, I think he's adorable and fun. I just think this book overall was pretty tame. I didn't feel like a ton happened. As always, I loved the characters and the overall plot of the series.
Gray is the Nephilim brother who represents Sloth. Mason became a monster/supernatural hunter after seeing ghouls take down his team in a mission while he was a Marine. They meet when Gray and his brothers save Mason from a monster attack. It was an instant connection and instead of going to his next hunt, Mason stays in Echo's Bay to see Gray again and ends up getting drawn into the demon/angel war.
Mason and Gray have more of an infatuation at first sight before falling hard and fast. Mason struggles with understanding that not all supernatural beings are evil because he's still processing the grief of losing his closest friend to monsters. Gray's sin is sloth, which makes his life difficult on a daily basis let alone when they're trying to fight a war. He's also one of the Nephilim brothers that has a complicated relationship with his dad, who's still out there causing mayhem. They both deal with feelings of inadequacy, but together give the support they need. They're a really cute couple with a sweet relationship full of nap cuddles and laughs.
I feel like the overall plot didn't really have a ton of stuff happen. Maybe it'll be relevant later, but it felt a bit anticlimactic compared to the previous books. The insta-love stuff also felt a little cheesy for me in this book. It could've been because of Gray's character being more cutesy in general. Also, and this is very picky, but I'm not sure what the author has against the word "motorcycle". This is the fourth book that she's only referred to them as "crotch rockets".
Now I've been excited for Bellamy's book for two books already. His moment with his (probable) mate in this book? But also the fact they are the epitome of enemies to lovers?? I'm really intrigued to see how his brothers deal with this, as he's tried to kill them multiple times. Ready to see how this all plays out!
Read if you like:
• paranormal/fantasy
• grumpy/sunshine
• fated mates
• insta love
I do like Gray, I think he's adorable and fun. I just think this book overall was pretty tame. I didn't feel like a ton happened. As always, I loved the characters and the overall plot of the series.
Gray is the Nephilim brother who represents Sloth. Mason became a monster/supernatural hunter after seeing ghouls take down his team in a mission while he was a Marine. They meet when Gray and his brothers save Mason from a monster attack. It was an instant connection and instead of going to his next hunt, Mason stays in Echo's Bay to see Gray again and ends up getting drawn into the demon/angel war.
Mason and Gray have more of an infatuation at first sight before falling hard and fast. Mason struggles with understanding that not all supernatural beings are evil because he's still processing the grief of losing his closest friend to monsters. Gray's sin is sloth, which makes his life difficult on a daily basis let alone when they're trying to fight a war. He's also one of the Nephilim brothers that has a complicated relationship with his dad, who's still out there causing mayhem. They both deal with feelings of inadequacy, but together give the support they need. They're a really cute couple with a sweet relationship full of nap cuddles and laughs.
I feel like the overall plot didn't really have a ton of stuff happen. Maybe it'll be relevant later, but it felt a bit anticlimactic compared to the previous books. The insta-love stuff also felt a little cheesy for me in this book. It could've been because of Gray's character being more cutesy in general. Also, and this is very picky, but I'm not sure what the author has against the word "motorcycle". This is the fourth book that she's only referred to them as "crotch rockets".
Now I've been excited for Bellamy's book for two books already. His moment with his (probable) mate in this book? But also the fact they are the epitome of enemies to lovers?? I'm really intrigued to see how his brothers deal with this, as he's tried to kill them multiple times. Ready to see how this all plays out!
Read if you like:
• paranormal/fantasy
• grumpy/sunshine
• fated mates
• insta love
Mann Hunt by Peter E. Fenton
3.5
This was pretty alright overall. I liked the mystery aspect, but there was almost no romance between the two MCs. Charlie was cute, except for that weird moment where he was being a creeper and checking out Declan when was sleeping. Declan was fine but I wasn't convinced in the least that he was attracted to Charlie, especially being with someone else the entire book. They worked well together on the whole mystery part though. I didn't love all the writing style of multiple POVs. There are a few random paragraphs from random side character's views, which didn't really flow all that well. It was a quick and easy read, plus there's a follow up where I assume there's more of their romance. It's not at the top of my TBR but I might pick it up when I need something quick!