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A close friend messaged me the other day, dropping the bombshell that she was finally ready to move on to shifter romances, having consumed every sports romance novel in the known world. She asked me for a couple of recommendations to get started with, as if I wasn’t already typing out a three-page list of books. I almost cried; it's about time! She came to the right person, shifter romances are my jam. It wasn't long after Twilight became a sensation that the market was flooded with shifter books of all sorts. Shifter romances vary widely in terms of quality, I’ve found that they tend to be much more hit-or-miss than other genres. It can get a little frustrating to sift through all of the options, but there are some gems among them that have everything you ever wanted and more. One of my favorite reasons to read shifter romances is that they tend to be written as part of a series, instead of as a stand-alone like half of contemporary romances. A series means I automatically have a book waiting in the wings after I finish the current one, and can binge to my heart's content. Though maybe not as popular a topic now as they once were, that by no means means that there aren't some great series out there. Here's the short version of the book list I sent her, my top five shifter romance series. They're in no particular order, I've read each multiple times. Each series has different elements, themes, and tropes that I adore and I hope you can find one that you will love too! 1. Psy-Changeling Series Author: Nalini Singh First Book: Slave to Sensation This series could take you a couple of months to get through depending on how fast you read and how much time you have on your hands. Each book focuses on a new couple, but we stay in the same world where there are more than just shifters living alongside humans. The world-building is very unique and Nalini Singh has a great writing style with inclusive and interesting characters. The heat level varies between books, but I'd rate it usually between 3 to 4. 2. The Phoenix Pack Series Author: Suzanne Wright First Book: Feral Sins Suzanne Wright is featured multiple times on my favorite books lists, she's one of my automatic purchase authors. This series has a ton of books to it, as well as some spin-off series that are in the same world. These are your typical shifter books complete with fated mates, shifting, pack dynamics, and more. I'd consider these pretty spicy, so if that's not your thing I would move on to another one of my series recommendations. 3. Elder Races Series Author: Thea Harrison First Book: Dragon Bound Dragons, need I say more? And it doesn't end there. This series has a host of different types of shifters and some characters that stray more into the paranormal world. 3 to 4 on the heat scale and the books have well-rounded plots. Though all of the books in the series are 4+ stars for me, book 4 Oracle's Moon might just be my favorite. 4. Mercy Thompson Series Author: Patricia Briggs First Book: Moon Called Some might call this series more urban fantasy than shifter romance. The romance is a slow burn for sure, but the plot is fast-paced and adventurous. Mercy is a tough woman who stands up for herself and those who need her most. She doesn't quite fit in and makes no apologies. This series would be best for those who like a little more action and grit to their romances. 5. Pack of Dawn and Destiny Series Author: K.M. Shea First Book: Hunted While Hunted is the first book in the trilogy that focuses on shifters, this is not the first series set in the magical world of Magiford Supernatural City of K.M. Shea. Start with Magic Forged if you want the first book set in the world, though it centers on wizards and vampires. This author writes clean books, which is totally not my usual preference for romance books, but I have loved almost everything K.M. Shea has written so I suggest giving this series a chance.

ARC Review - Publish Date September 28, 2023 Author: Jackie Fraser Series: Stand Alone Category: Contemporary Romance Rating: ⭐⭐⭐ Spice: 🌶️ Goodreads Blurb "Can you say you 'ran away' when you're my age? I don't know. That's what I did though. I didn't just leave. I ran away, escaped." - Jess I ended up with mixed feelings about The Beginning of Everything. On one hand, it was such a sweet story about friendship, helping others, and building yourself back up after life knocks you down. Both Gethin and Jess are at low points in their lives, and watching them navigate a new normal, and finding new purposes in life was heartwarming. On the other hand, Jess and Gethin were opposites in how they came to be together. One constantly tried to run away from self-introduced poor situations, while the other buried their head in the sand and should have done something a long time ago. I didn't really like either of the characters on their own, but their interactions and dialogue together were cute. Gethin was so patient with Jess, from their first encounter onward, and he really just wanted her to spread her wings and be happy. He gave her everything she needed to succeed and gave her space to put the pieces together, all while being there for steady companionship. I felt like he was a little too meek at times, happy to go with the flow whether it was in his best interest or not. "It's the way he pays attention, I think, that makes me like this. I'd forgotten what it was like, when someone pays attention to what you say, learns things about you, and doesn't use those things against you but instead uses them to make your life...more pleasant." - Jess Jess, despite everything she experienced in life, had a positive can-do attitude. She was so strong, weathering the storm and trying to find out who she was on the other side. Her life was a hectic line of not-so-great choices, and while it was commendable that she is self-reliant, in her mind she was always the victim. "But everything about me was smashed to pieces, pulverized, turned to dust. There's nothing left, and what you see...is just a really wobbly simulacrum, a faked-up thing, a stitched-together monster." - Jess I appreciated the author's mention of Jess feeling like an invisible middle-aged woman, part of the background and less noticeable than she was in her youth. This experience many women have as they age is very real and I loved how it was woven into the story as a plot point. There were a lot of philosophical questions that emerged from this book. The characters spoke many times about looking back on life, the consequences of small actions, and wishing they made different choices in hindsight. Both of them were good at deflecting hard questions, and it took them a long time to break down each other's walls. "How did I get to this point? Where did the time go? Spent, wasted, frittered away, stolen. It doesn't make any difference; it's gone all the same." - Jess I think this book will be a hit for some and a miss for others. I'm somewhere on the fence between those two camps for this book review. It was a very slow burn friends-to-lovers story and while the connection between the two main characters was toothachingly sweet, the romance was too one-sided for me to give this more than three stars. *I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own. Thank you, NetGalley and Random House Publishing Group for the opportunity. Tropes and Themes: Friends to Lovers, Slow Burn, Contemporary Romance. Blurb After escaping a bad relationship, Jess Cavendish is running and leaving it all behind, carrying just a few treasured belongings in her knapsack. She needs to start over, but that means sleeping where she can and making the most of her slim savings. Luckily, she comes across a recently sold, unoccupied house. It couldn’t hurt to stay there while she saves up enough to get her own place, right? Gethin Thomas is also looking to move on after the end of a long-term relationship. He’s returned to his hometown, anxious to renovate the fixer-upper he bought and move out of his sister’s cramped guest room. When he walks through the door one morning, he finds Jess, who’s ready to run again, and surprises them both by offering to let her stay. It feels like the right thing to do, but Jess doesn’t want a handout. They strike a bargain: Jess will help with the restoration, furnishing, and decorating in exchange for room and board. While they peel wallpaper and shop for new furniture, an unexpected friendship develops as they bond over music and food, and slowly open up to each other about their pasts. When it’s time for Gethin to move in, he convinces Jess to be his official housemate and she agrees—so long as he lets her pay rent. The connection between them soon shifts to an attraction that seems both inevitable and overwhelming, and Jess must decide what she wants. With so much hurt in her past, can she risk loving again? She was brave enough to reach for a new life—and now a future she hadn’t even dreamed possible could be just within her grasp.

ARC Review - Publish Date September 14, 2023 Author: Kate Johnson Series: Stand Alone Category: Paranormal Romance Rating: ⭐⭐⭐ Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️ Goodreads Blurb "She knew most people didn't understand animals the way she did. She also knew most people didn't have hair that literally had a mind of its own, and that they hadn't spent their childhoods playing with the ghosts in the churchyard." - Poppy I was not expecting everything that was packed into this book when I settled down to read. We had witches, magic, curses, ghosts, mummies, time travel, history lessons, and more... not including the actual romance plot. It was a bit much, but there was something for everyone if you're into paranormal romances. Poppy was a shining star of a hot mess that was so endearing. She was delightfully straightforward and charming, despite having an accident every 2.5 seconds. I loved her resilience in the face of danger and was rooting for her to understand her powers and find her way in the magical world. "There is nothing wrong with being chaotic. Iris had said that to her shortly after Poppy moved in. Chaos is necessary and healthy for growth, it brings creativity and breathes new life into stale order." - Poppy Alex's character was a disappointment, though he begrudgingly grew on me. His personality started and ended at dazzling, vain man whore. Although we learn more about his childhood as an explanation for his actions, it didn't justify the mistreatment of his constant sexual train of partners. In general, I'm not a fan of the man whore trope, but Alex's actions were worse in that he only felt bad about leading women on when it bit him in the bum - and still, he couldn't stop until Poppy came around. "He'd spent too long creating Alex Storm to have someone see through the glamour. Axel Storm smoldered in leather and eyeliner." - Alex Hex in the City featured sex, but little spice. It was an odd dichotomy; either expand the naughty bits and go for it, or fade to black. If you've read any of my other book reviews, you know which one I would prefer! The third-act drama was predictable, but I always appreciate a little angst in my romance books. You can’t have everything be smooth sailing, waves need to break things up every once and awhile. After they finally got over their issues, Poppy and Alex were so cute together. The last chapter was by far my favorite part of the book and honestly, I'd love a sequel based on it alone. "He was still looking at her as the director called, 'Action', so the first shot of the show was Alex gazing at her with adoration." - Poppy Overall, I loved the storyline idea of Poppy and her magic more than I loved the romance. I struggled to root for Poppy and Alex's relationship for 80% of the book, however, it totally could have been a 'me' problem. There were many progressive narratives about gender and sexuality that I absolutely applaud, and Poppy herself was a gem. If you like quirky female characters who are a little unsure of themselves but forge ahead anyways, and don't mind a guy who may or may not deserve her, this book may be for you. *I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own. Thank you, NetGalley and HarperCollins UK for the opportunity. Tropes and Themes: Fantasy Romance, Witches, Magic, Paranormal. Blurb Things you should know about Poppy: 1. She’s a witch 2. She has magical hair like Rapunzel from Tangled 3. She lives with Iris, the head of her coven, in a beautiful, ramshackle house next to Highgate cemetery 4. She works at Hubble Bubble, a magic shop in Covent Garden. Though none of it is real magic as that would be highly irresponsible. Until… …Poppy accidentally sells gorgeous celebrity magician Axl Storm, all six-foot-four of him, a cursed pendant. When all hell breaks loose can the guy with fake magic and the girl with real magic fix the chaos they’ve caused? Or will sparks fly both in and out of the cauldron?

Author: Kimberly Lemming Series: Book 1 in the Mead Mishaps series Category: Fantasy Romance Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️ Goodreads Link "'You're already dragging me on some stupid quest I have no business being on. If you think I'm also going to spend my days eating unseasoned slop, you may as well kill me now.'" - Cinnamon Cin is my girl! She's just trying to party with her friends, keep her head down, eat some cheese, and drink some wine. Isn’t that what we all want in life? It's times like these I wish I had a magic spell to bring my favorite book characters to life... I KNOW Cinnamon and I would be BFFs. "My self-preserving habits made me a bit of an outlier with the other girls in town. 'Who wouldn't want to go off on a grand adventure with a bunch of hot heroes also chosen by the goddess?' Me bitches. No, thank you." - Cinnamon But of course, as these things go, life had different plans for her, and I was 100% here for her quest. It was a wild ride, but Cin showed up and took her adventure by the horns, kicked some ass, and bagged herself a demon lover in the process. She was such a wonderful character, a determined badass, sweet, and so damn funny. With the biggest heart, Cin constantly tried to do the right thing even when it was hard and I admired her resiliency. Fallon was a burnt marshmallow, hard on the outside but only sugary goodness on the inside. He was a typical alpha character, with swoon-worthy possessiveness and protectiveness wrapped in a package of devotion. He balanced Cin's personality well and absolutely went after what he wanted. I loved the building sexual tension between the two before Cin finally allowed Fallon to win her over fully. "' I mean, I'm going to take you as my wife when this is all over.' 'That wasn't part of the deal, demon!' I imagine my retort would sound a lot stronger if it didn't come out so desperately. 'Then you shouldn't have been so horribly interesting.'" Their back-and-forth banter was quick-witted and who doesn't love a friendly competition to win a woman's heart a couple points at a time? I adored their interactions and was practically giddy as their relationship evolved from somewhat enemies to lovers. "'Scoundrel is too innocent of a word. You sir, are a rapscallion!; Fallon put a hand on his chest and gasped as if utterly scandalized before his shoulders shook with the effort not to laugh." - Cinnamon This book was so much fun! It's been a while since I've read a true romance with adventure in it, and I forgot how great it can play into the love story. There are several great secondary characters that have or will have their own books and they are going straight on my TBR list. More book reviews from this author to come! Blurb All I wanted to do was live my life in peace. Maybe get a cat, expand my spice farm. Really anything that doesn’t involve going on a quest where an orc might rip my face off. But they say the Goddess has favorites. If so, I’m clearly not one of them. After saving the demon Fallon in a wine-drunk stupor, all he wanted to do was kill an evil witch enslaving his people. I mean, I get it. Don't get me wrong. But he's dragging me along for the ride, and I'm kind of peeved about it. On the bright side, he keeps burning off his shirt.

ARC Review - Publish Date May 9, 2023 Author: Ashley Winstead Series: Stand Alone Category: Contemporary Romance Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Spice: 🌶️🌶️ Goodreads Blurb "I, Alexis Rosalie Stone, was going to have my first one-night stand. I was going to sleep with a man with no strings attached, no stakes or expectations: just one night to do whatever felt right. Alexis the unadventurous bore? I'd killed her and buried the body." - Alexis The Boyfriend Candidate was witty, laugh-out-loud funny and I couldn't put it down! Fake dating is my current favorite trope, so sorry not sorry if this book review is gushing a little too much but I loved every second! Literally, all the boxes were checked off: Initial deal Promise to keep things platonic Sexual tension Lying to friends and family, awkward situations More sexual tension Admitting feelings Sex Crash and burn Reunion What more could a girl ask for? Logan is the perfect book boyfriend, without the over-possessive attitude that most romantic male characters have ingrained in their actions. His driven attitude, mixed with roguish charm and a loyalty streak was perfection. Logan was clearly split in two throughout the entire book, trying to balance his dream of enacting change for people through his run for governor with his growing love for Alexis. Sure, there were times he didn't put her first, but with all the pressure he was under and people counting on him, I didn't hold it against him. "And even though he dragged me here to bait the crowd into listening to him, I wasn't mad. The whole point of our arrangement was to help each other. And I knew how badly he wanted to win- I'd heard it in the tenor of his voice, the fire in his eyes. He was right that people told you who they were in a million different ways. And when I looked at him, I saw his longing." - Alexis Alexis was a down-to-earth introvert who thought she needed to change who she was because she let someone's careless words get inside her head and fester. Been there before...! Watching her tackle things that made her uncomfortable was admirable and she has such wonderful character growth. I had so much respect for her ability to face her fears of public speaking, all for the greater good because I would have thrown up. Alexis was almost too nice, unwilling to be selfish at times because she was trying to be understanding and put people above her own wants and needs. "It was surreal: Logan spoke the lies so effortlessly that I was half convinced myself. With his thumb rubbing a comforting circle on my hand, it was hard to distinguish fiction from reality. He was very good. I was grudgingly impressed." - Alexis I was rooting for Logan and Alexis the entire time, they were such a good fit together, and the chemistry between them was evident from the beginning. I'd say the book was more sweet than spicy, there was more emphasis on heavy make-out sessions and sexual tension than anything else. Because I've seen the topic come up in some negative reviews, a fair warning that progressive politics do make an appearance in the story and factor into the overall plotline. If you don't like the "real world" creeping into your romance novels, this story may not be for you. "True, I was only twenty-seven, but after these last few months in politics, I felt whatever age Patches was in cat years. Forget giving in to my inner sex goddess; it was time to cede the floor to my inner sexagenarian." - Alexis I'd highly recommend The Boyfriend Candidate to anyone who loves fake dating and shy female characters finding their voice. Although this story can be read as a stand-alone, Alexis's sister Lee was featured in a previous book by this author so you might want to read "Fool Me Once". *I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own. Thank you, NetGalley and Harlequin Trade Publishing for the opportunity. Tropes and Themes: One Night Stand, Fake Dating, Romcom, Politics, Slow Burn. Blurb As a shy school librarian, Alexis Stone is comfortable keeping out of the spotlight. But when she’s dumped for being too meek—in bed!—the humiliation is a wake-up call. She decides she needs to change, and what better way to kick-start her new more adventurous life than with her first one-night stand? Enter Logan, the gorgeous, foul-mouthed stranger she meets at a hotel bar. Logan is audacious and filterless, making him Alexis’s opposite—and boy, do opposites attract! Just as she’s about to fulfill her hookup wish, the hotel catches fire in a freak lightning storm—and in their rush to escape, Logan is discovered carrying her into the street, where people are waiting with cameras. Cameras Logan promptly—and shockingly—flees. Alexis is bewildered until breaking news hits: pictures of her and Logan escaping the fire are all over the internet. It turns out Logan is none other than Logan Arthur, the hotshot politician challenging the Texas governor’s seat. The salacious images are poised to sink his career—and jeopardize Alexis’s job—until a solution is proposed: to squash the scandal, he and Alexis could pretend to be in a relationship until election day…in two months. What could possibly go wrong?

Author: Catherine Cowles Series: Book 1 in the Tattered & Torn series Category: Romantic Suspense Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️ Goodreads Blurb “I had known I wouldn’t receive any warmth from this town. Yet, somehow, I’d hoped. That I could atone for something that wasn’t even mine. That I could make things right. Find a home again the mountains that had always soothed me when life was roughest. Maybe even find peace after all of these years.” - Everly How is it possible that I haven't read a Catherine Cowles book before? Where has this author been hiding? This book might be the best example of a well-written romantic suspense that I've read in a long time. The balance between the increasingly dangerous situation and the relationship development between the two main characters was superb, I ate this book up and was on the edge of my seat trying to figure out who was behind the attacks! I was hooked right away. The prologue is gripping, and 11-year-old Everly is such a brave girl, who only grows up to be even stronger. Talk about standing up for what you know is right, even when the price of that action is so high. It was heartbreaking to read about everything she endured as a young child, but it was clear those life experiences had shaped her into an empathic and determined woman. Her courage and determination to bring happiness to a bad place, and to face her demons no matter how much other people wanted to bury their heads in the sand and pretend nothing happened was inspiring. “‘Anyone can be brave for twenty breaths. And in that time, you can do almost anything. Or at least take the first steps you need to get there.’” - Everly Hayes was an interesting MMC. He was dependable, and honorable and ultimately took on responsibility for things he shouldn't have. Playing the peacemaker for his family, all of whom have lingering trauma in some shape or form from Everly's father's actions, it was obvious why Everly rubbed him the wrong way - she was a stark reminder of something he wanted to forget. “Everly was a reminder of my greatest failure. One I’d been working to make up for ever since.” - Hayes However, Everly was good for Hayes and his family despite Hayes's initial wariness of her and what she represented. The wounds from the past hadn’t gone away, they were just scabbed over but festering within his family. “The mountains seemed to taunt us, even now. But the range was still beautiful - that beauty was simply haunted.” - Hayes It didn’t take too long before Hayes understood he'd been an ass and I appreciated the story didn’t drag out the enemies-to-lovers element. I loved how Hayes' family embraced Everly wholeheartedly as well, there was so much healing that happened for a lot of the characters outside of the main couple. There is much more to learn about the town of Wolf Gap and the host of hodge-podge characters from different walks of life. I can't wait to see more of everyone in the series' other books, look for more reviews soon! Tropes and Themes: Small Town, Mystery, Suspense, Enemies to Lovers, Abuse, Forced Proximity, Second Chance, Police Officer. Blurb Be brave. Just for sixty seconds. Twenty breaths. It took every ounce of my courage to return to the small town I fled all those years ago. But I should’ve known he’d hate me. How could he not when my father’s blood still runs through my veins? Yet here I am, desperate for a chance to make things right. Even if it means facing the family my father almost destroyed and the boy with the dark eyes—now grown—who still haunts my dreams. I never expected just how explosive things would turn between us. He’s the last person I should want. Yet, somehow, I keep drawing closer—so close I know I’ll end up burned. But Hayes is a good man, a noble one. Someone who channeled his pain into a career spent protecting those around him. So, when the threats begin, he steps in to keep me safe. And we discover that maybe neither of us knew the other at all. As the sparks between us ignite into something deeper, someone watches. And they’ll do anything to tear it all apart…

ARC Review - Publish Date June 13, 2023 Author: Claire Legrand Series: Book 1 of The Middlemist Trilogy series Category: Fantasy Romance Rating: ⭐⭐ Spice: 🌶️🌶️ Goodreads Blurb "That selfish cowardice was my deepest, most terrible secret." - Gemma If this story hadn't been an ARC book review, I don't think I would have finished it. I consider my time pretty valuable and as much as I don't like leaving something unfinished, after the first couple of chapters I would have hightailed it to a different book. The premise, the cover, and the blurb were all 10/10 in my eyes, this book had so much promise! I was excited to be introduced to a new world, and fantasy romance holds a special place in my heart. Unfortunately, the execution left something to be desired and this book just wasn't for me. I hated Gemma by the first 10 pages, and my feelings about her only went downhill from there. Her holier "I am rich, popular and everyone wants to be me" attitude was stuffed down the reader's throats and I couldn't for the life of me understand how I was to feel any sort of interest or sympathy for the character. She was such a brat, so self-aware of her selfishness but absolutely unwilling to change, and really, her crippling chronic pain was kind of deserved based on her awfulness. "When a girl has condemned her sister to a life of servitude, that girl does not much relish the times when she must look said doomed sister in the eye." - Gemma Was I hoping a monster would eat her? Yes, yes I was. "Self-pity and hatred and the bitter bite of shame - these were the feelings I knew most intimately. What a pathetic creature I was." - Gemma Talan was another hot mess of a character entirely, and the insta-love was not very convincing or comprised of any chemistry. By the time we moved on to any sort of romance, intimacy, or sexual encounters I was cringing. The back-and-forth I don't trust you, I love you, I hate you but I forgive you drama was all over the place, as was the pacing of their relationship. "'I hate you,' I whispered, 'and I always will, for offering me this thing I cannot possibly refuse.' Talan looked away, his jaw working. 'For the chance to avenge my family and help yours as well,' he said quietly, 'earning your hatred is a price I will pay not happily but willingly.'" Many other reviewers note the YA feel of this book despite being classified as an adult fantasy romance, with which I fully agree. Curse words and sex scenes do not make an adult novel. I was more interested in learning more about the world and its magic system than I was in any of the characters. From the author's other successful series, I know a great series is possible, can we get a do-over? This one didn't work for me. *I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own. Thank you, NetGalley and Sourcebooks Casablanca for the opportunity. Tropes and Themes: Paranormal and Fantasy Romance, Insta-love, Magic. Blurb Lady Gemma Ashbourne seemingly has it all. She's young, gorgeous, and rich. Her family was Anointed by the gods, blessed with incredible abilities. But underneath her glittering façade, Gemma is deeply sad. Years ago, her sister Mara was taken to the Middlemist to guard against treacherous magic. Her mother abandoned the family. Her father and eldest sister, Farrin—embroiled in a deadly blood feud with the mysterious Bask family—often forget Gemma exists. Worst of all, Gemma is the only Ashbourne to possess no magic. Instead, her body fights it like poison. Constantly ill, aching with loneliness, Gemma craves love and yearns to belong. Then she meets the devastatingly handsome Talan d'Astier. His family destroyed themselves, seduced by a demon, and Talan, the only survivor, is determined to redeem their honor. Intrigued and enchanted, Gemma proposes a bargain: She'll help Talan navigate high society if he helps her destroy the Basks. According to popular legend, a demon called The Man With the Three-Eyed Crown is behind the families' blood feud—slay the demon, end the feud. But attacks on the Middlemist are increasing. The plot against the Basks quickly spirals out of control. And something immense and terrifying is awakening in Gemma, drawing her inexorably toward Talan and an all-consuming passion that could destroy her—or show her the true strength of her power at last.

ARC Review - Publish Date June 8, 2023 Author: M.R.C. Kasasian Series: Book 1 of The Violet Thorn Mysteries series Category: Thriller Rating: ⭐⭐⭐ Goodreads Blurb "I could not have known, the last time I left, that the true horror of Haglin House had yet to begin." - Violet I struggled to get into this book in the beginning. Other than knowing Violet is a jilted bride, there is very little background given to the reader as we are dumped into the thick of things. I was impatient to rush forward to the mystery part of the story but the book doesn't start to pick up until 30% of the way in, a lot of patience to ask of a reader. M.R.C. Kasasian's writing style was flowery, it was hard to stay concentrated on the story at times. I freely admit to skimming past some of the various arduous descriptions of rooms, people on the street walking by, etc. Violet was headstrong and determined, but she didn’t cross over into superwomen or TSTL territory for me. There were more than a few harebrained schemes, but overall she was likable and competent enough to talk her way out of danger. "He did not have to tell me the kind of stories that would circulate if we were closeted together. They would not especially worry me, for a single woman pursuing such a disreputable career as mine must expect to be the subject of all sorts of rumors." - Violet By far the best and worst parts of the book were Violet's book characters, whom she hears in her head throughout the story. I felt like I was missing parts of the book initially until I realized these people weren't real, just figments of her imagination who chimed in every once in a while with no warning or explanation. Some of these moments of banter were entertaining, hell I'd love to read one of Violet's novels about Ruby! "'I loved him,' I told the absinthe. It did not reply of course, but Ruby had plenty to say on the subject. 'What is love? she philosophised. A flutter of the heart or a surge of blood in the brain? Doctors will find a cure for it one day.'" However, these imaginary interactions eventually became a distraction from the actual plot. I love the idea of a novelist conversing with her characters, but it was overdone to the point of being annoying. The mystery element of the story dragged. Violet made continuous errors of claiming to know who the murderer was, the police telling her she had no evidence, then putting herself into harm's way only to discover she didn't have the full story. It was a never-ending loop of misdirection that again, went a little too far. I don't know if I would pick up book two of the series, turns out Victorian thrillers may not be my thing. Still, the book ended without a key plot point resolved, so I might be tempted to read on just to know what happens next. *I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own. Thank you, NetGalley and Canelo for the opportunity. Tropes and Themes: Cozy Mystery, Victorian, Historical, Suspense. Blurb Home is where the horror is… Jilted thriller writer Lady Violet Thorn has withdrawn to the Suffolk market town of Montford with two servants and her leading character, the adventuress Ruby Gibson, for company. Violet’s peace is disturbed when a stranger asks her for help, claiming that a friend is being kept prisoner in her own home. Her visitor seems so afraid that Violet, despite her scepticism, is persuaded to investigate. A woman is killed outside Violet’s house, then another murdered in the town and, as the deaths mount up, she becomes convinced that they all lead to one place: the increasingly forbidding Haglin House, and whoever lives there…

ARC Review - Publish Date October 17, 2023 Author: Samara Yew Series: Stand Alone Category: Cozy Mystery Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ Goodreads Blurb "I tried to convince myself I was being ridiculous, probably working myself up over nothing. It had to be a piece of garbage or driftwood or something. Ugh. It was a hand. I was going to be sick." - Scarlett Fun, intriguing cozy murder mystery on the steps of the seashore. This book is a quick, easy read and review that had me picking up clues and trying to guess the end up until the last few chapters. Scarlett was a super likable character, in over her head even before discovering a body on the beach. Having recently opened a bookstore without her ex-boyfriend who was supposed to help her manage it, her life was already complicated before being thrown in the middle of a murder case. "Over the past few months since Connor had left, I'd quickly realized there was more to running a bookshop than simply being a huge bookworm." - Scarlett Thankfully, Scarlett has perseverance and determination in spades as she tackles owning a popular small business and trying to solve a murder as the number one suspect. And it didn't hurt to have a kick-ass lawyer and roommate in her corner when things got serious. "It wasn't long before I heard shouting down the hall. I recognized that voice. And Lucia was yelling in Spanish, meaning she was really mad. I almost felt sorry for the officers who had to deal with her right now. Almost." - Scarlett The name of the store, Palm Trees and Page Turners was delightful, I would love for this store to be real! There was lots of humor, kooky side characters, and enough red herrings to make almost anyone Scarlett encountered a suspect. I loved the town of Oceanside and that small-town feeling of nosy neighbors being in everyone’s business. I can definitely see how this book set up the possibility of a series. Overall, a great cozy mystery read! *I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own. Thank you NetGalley and Crooked Lane Books for the opportunity. Tropes and Themes: Cozy Mystery, Bookstore. Blurb Southern California is where dreams come true—or so Scarlett Gardner thought. When she moved there and opened the Palm Trees and Page Turners bookshop, she thought her boyfriend and business partner would be part of the story. When he leaves her for a better job, Scarlett finds herself struggling to keep her new business afloat. That’s not the only thing she has to worry about—she discovers something underneath the pier by her bookshop that she didn’t outline for her life’s story: the dead body of a book-buying customer. After Scarlett gives a statement to the police, she thinks her life can go back to business as usual. But when a lawyer, representing someone named Lorelai Knight, tells Scarlett that she now stands to inherit a small fortune, she’s left with more questions than answers. Before she can make sense of any of it, the police bring her in for questioning; the body she found was Lorelai Knight. And the evidence they have against Scarlett doesn’t look good. Business is booming as Scarlett returns to Palm Trees and Page Turners, but for all the wrong reasons – curious tourists don’t want books, they want a glimpse of the Bookshop Killer. Who could really be behind all of this? And why frame Scarlett? To clear her name, she’s going to have get creative—and hope she can remain one page ahead of the killer.

A marriage of convenience is a marriage contracted for reasons other than that of love and commitment. Instead, such a marriage is entered into for personal gain, or some other sort of strategic purpose. There’s just something about a Marriage of Convenience Trope that’s highly satisfying. Often paired with forced proximity, family drama, contractual obligations, or all three, this trope lends itself to building sexual tension between the two main characters until one of them breaks all of their carefully crafted rules. This trope can span many genres and sub-genres, and it is often the main driving plot point of the story. Contemporary, fantasy, paranormal, sci-fi, dystopian, it doesn't matter to me I'll read them all as long as the marriage of convenience trope is well played out. I divvy up this specific trope into two categories: strangers or familiar faces. Both have their benefits and opportunities story-wise, I'd say most marriage of convenience books I read are of the familiar faces variety which lends itself to either an enemies-to-lovers or friends-to-lovers subplot. The forced proximity aspect of many of these books only enhances the overall tension. Many times our main characters are forced to live together and pretend in front of family or friends, leading to a blurred line between reality and fantasy. This trope is a slow burn by nature, even if the characters are coerced into any physical actions to keep up appearances, the ultimate 'will they decide to stay together?' is drawn out. The struggle to win each other's hearts is what really entices the reader. I’ve listed out some of my favorite books with this tropes list, but not in any particular order. There are many many many more out there, but these are the ones that I’ve enjoyed and would recommend. Marriage of convenience books come in all shapes and sizes. Some are dark, others funny, some with high stakes, and others contract solely because of family expectations. 1. The Wall of Winnipeg and Me Author: Mariana Zapata Series: Stand Alone Category: Sports Romance Goodreads This book is one of my all-time favorites, I have reread it at least nine times. It is a lukewarm enemies-to-lovers on the longer side, which was perfect for building respect and trust between the two main characters. This book has family drama, a stoic man who has no room for relationships other than his one with professional football, and a woman who learns to speak grumpy and accept the help of someone she doesn't yet trust. Not much spice to be mentioned in this one, but there is plenty of tension and intimate moments. 2. Terms and Conditions Author: Lauren Asher Series: Dreamland Billionaires book #2 Category: Contemporary Romance Goodreads A megalomanic future CEO hell-bent on obtaining ownership of his family's company, even if he has to marry. A hardworking, dedicated, smart boss-lady who will keep him on his toes and worship the ground she walks on. This friends-to-lovers book shows how well past history can be woven into new beginnings. 3. Luxuria Author: Colette Rhodes Series: Shades of Sin book #1 Category: Monster Romance Goodreads A classic twist on a corrupt human council marrying off a woman to another culture in a bid for peace. Only the other culture is made of actual monsters and the woman marrying isn't doing it against her will. Cultural miscommunication and prejudices abound and trust takes time. Spice read of the monster variety with a great plotline and interesting world-building. 4. Never Seduce a Scot Author: Maya Banks Series: The Montgomerys and Armstrongs book #1 Category: Historical Romance Goodreads As part of an arranged marriage, Eveline does her best to embrace life in a new clan while attempting to keep her hearing disability a secret while her new husband Graeme does everything in his power as clan chief to keep her safe and get her to open up to him. 5. Radiance Author: Grace Draven Series: Wraith Kings book #1 Category: Fantasy Romance Goodreads Beauty is in the eye of the beholder, something Prince Brishen and Ildiko must learn as their politically arranged marriage means marrying someone they find hideous. Forming a fast friendship despite their respective appearances, the two quickly learn to lean on each other in acceptance and duty to their kingdoms while also falling in love. 6. The Bluff Author: Willa Nash Series: Calamity Montana book #2 Category: Contemporary Romance Goodreads After a one-night stand and peaking at some private text messages, Everly convinces single dad Reese that she is the answer to his problems. Of course, that means life gets even more complicated for both of them as they try to glue a makeshift family together with secrets, nosy friends, and small-town gossip. 7. Lady Luck Author: Kristen Ashley Series: Colorado Mountain book #3 Category: Contemporary Romance Goodreads Leaving prison for another one with slightly better scenery but still roving with danger and threats, Ty's lucky break is meeting Lexie, though he doesn't know it. Bent on revenge, a man will do just about anything to get it, while the woman who accidentally fell in love will do just about anything to help him, including holding on until she breaks. 8. Choosing Theo Author: Victoria Aveline Series: Clecanian book #1 Category: Sci-Fi Romance Goodreads Jade's been kidnapped, rescued, then bullied into a marriage of convenience by aliens whose culture she must abide by for one year. Theo doesn't trust his new wife, and he is willing to go to extremes to prove she is a spy - the only reason she would choose a scared male for her husband. 'Will she stay?' takes on a whole different meaning when after a year, Jade has the option of going back to Earth.

When two characters start off as enemies and end up in a romantic relationship by the end of the story or series. Commonly, these enemies overcome differences, past history, miscommunications, and their own assumptions about each other before falling for each other. One of the more popular tropes, enemies to lovers is popular across subgenres. Though I have read books from sci-fi, to fantasy and paranormal with this trope, the rise of dark romances has really established enemies to lovers as a crowd favorite. This tropes list has been very hit or miss for me, mainly because there is a fine line in establishing an enemy plotline without going overboard and leaving little room for love in the end. I've found that some authors can back themselves into a corner, and are unable to overcome misconceptions and deeds during the enemies phase with the character's eventual transition to lovers. Some actions are just too over-the-top hateful for any redemption in my eyes. I like the enemies-to-lovers trope because the main characters tend to have depth to them. Maybe the MMC is arrogant but only because he is hiding behind this façade to protect his heart from breaking yet again, or the FMC is tough as nails until you get to know her and discover she is caring and thoughtful. Whatever the scenario, this trope usually gives more characteristics and backstories to characters and makes them more real. The magnitude of who can be considered an enemy ranges widely in enemies to lovers' books. In some stories, enemies can be two competitors out for the same prize or individuals with conflicting personalities that have never gotten along. In other books, the word enemy takes on a truer definition, that of two people not only being antagonistic to one another but also seeking to injure, overthrow, hurt, or confound. Below are some of my favorite enemies to lovers books, in no particular order, all of which vary in their definition of enemy. From dark romances to a little less than friendly acquaintances, these books all end with two opposing characters finding their perfect match in one another. 1. From Lukov with Love Author: Mariana Zapata Series: Stand Alone Category: Sports Romance Goodreads The second week I've featured a Mariana Zapata book in Trope Tuesday, and I'm not sorry about it. I love this book for its witty insulting banter between the two main characters and the slow burn that actually took them from enemies to then friends then finally lovers. 2. Pestilence Author: Laura Thalassa Series: The Four Horsemen book #1 Category: Dystopia Romance Goodreads Enemies in the truest form, the story Pestilence brings together two characters that want to kill each other and somehow fall in love. The enemies part of the book is tough to read, and I first thought that the MMC was beyond redeemable, but Laura Thalassa wove a love story that was all-encompassing and worth it to read. 3. Broken Bonds Author: J. Bree Series: The Bonds That Tie book #1 Category: Reverse Harem Goodreads Not one enemy but 5! This story gave the spectrum of what can be considered an enemy, from plain dislike and untrusting to hatred. There was a lot of bullying in this book, and that isn't for some people, but the eventual shift that the FMC has with each of her bonds makes for a really great book. 4. The Deal Author: Elle Kennedy Series: Off-Campus book #1 Category: Contemporary Romance Goodreads With more than just the enemies to lovers trope in the story, it's no wonder this is such a highly-rated book. There was amazing chemistry between Hannah and Garett from the beginning and it only grew stronger once they realized they were falling for each other. They fall in love almost by accident, learning more and more about each other over the time they spend together. 5. Burn for Me Author: Ilona Andrews Series: Hidden Legacy book #1 Category: Fantasy Romance Goodreads One of my favorite books, Nevada and Connor do not start out their relationship on the right foot, to say the least, but eventually, they come to find mutual respect for one another that turns into something more. Both were strong characters with their own set issues and outside forces working against them, but time and time again they proved that they were more formidable together. 6. Go Hex Yourself Author: Jessica Clare Series: Hex book #1 Category: Fantasy Romance Goodreads Grumpy warlock Ben Magnus distrusts everyone and grows even more irritated when he finds he doesn't really hate familiar Reggie as much as he should. This book was a lot of fun and did a good job of highlighting the moment when the two characters shifted from enemies to something more. 7. Tattered Stars Author: Catherine Cowles Series: Tattered & Torn book #1 Category: Contemporary Romance Goodreads With bad blood between their families and painful memories that have not been healed, Everly and Hayes try to find a way to move past the guilt and into each other's arms. The small-town vibes and family-centric focus of this book really added to the overall story and I loved the growth of the characters as they learn to let go.

One or both of the main characters in the story are single parents, usually struggling to balance life and the demands of parenthood. Typically, the child(ren) is used as a plot device. To gather books for these Tropes List posts, I usually start looking through my list of recently-read books. I keep an Excel spreadsheet of books I've read as well as rely on Goodreads shelves to remember everything I read. I've found it's helpful to first look at books that I have given four or five stars, then figure out what trope a handful of them fit into before deciding on the trope of the week. In my perusal, I found out something about myself that I hadn't known before. Single-dad sports romances are a big staple in my life. Who knew? I decided to run with it, and only expand a little to include all single parents in this week's trope feature, if only to add a little variety. I find that the single-parent trope isn't as subgenre diverse as some of the others. When you look at lists for this trope, it's often filled to the brim with standard contemporary romances. In an effort to branch out, I've attempted to make my list below a bit more diverse. I love the instant family that comes with a single parent trope, even more so if a non-parent bumbles around adjusting to kids. I am a sucker for an epilogue with the child included in the wedding or "will you be mine officially" adoption papers. Seriously, all the feels! However, with great highs, there are great lows, and I have witnessed this trope written poorly many times. Perhaps because I have kids myself, but the ways some authors decide to utilize kids to drive the storyline can be very obnoxious or ridiculously off-base. Sure, three-year-olds will totally stop melting down if a handsome stranger steps in to console them. And of course, kids are always scheming in their single parent's love life! Complaints aside, the single parent trope has some real winners and I've included the ones I like below. As with most of my lists, some of these are not the first books in the series so to get the most out of it, you may consider starting from book one even if it doesn't contain this particular trope. Happy reading! 1. Zack Author: Sawyer Bennett Series: Cold Fury Hockey Series book # 3 Category: Sports Romance A charming but nerdy nanny, a distant boss who is stuck in his grief and doesn't know if he can move on - there was no way this book wasn't going to be good! I love a good hockey romance and the fact that this one comes with emotional baggage, sexual tension, and an MMC who needs to learn to love again makes it all the more better. 2. Flirting with Forever Author: Claire Kingsley Series: Dirty Martini Running Club Series book #4 Category: Contemporary Romance The sweet friendship between Nora and Dex's daughter Riley is what set this book apart from the others for me. They became friends before the two main characters ever ended up together and it was treated as a separate relationship completely. This book not only has spice but also sweetness. 3. Grim Author: M.K. Eidem Series: Tornians Series book #1 Category: Alien Romance An alien romance with a twist from the typical Mars Needs Women trope, an abducted woman demands her kids are allowed to come with her. The world-building is lacking in some places but the unique story and wholesome characters are worth reading for. The different culture clashes and misunderstandings are also a bonus! 4. Hot Single Dad Author: Claire Kingsley Series: Book Boyfriends Series book #3 Category: Contemporary Romance Another nanny meets single dad story, except they know each other, and Linnea just so happens to be Caleb's sister-in-law. Based on their familial ties and past, there were a lot of reasons why this romance was forbidden but the heart wants what it wants right? Claire Kingsley made it twice on my list this week, she definitely has a knack for this trope. 5. Razing Kayne Author: Julieanne Reeves Series: Walking a Thin Blue Line Series book #1 Category: Romantic Suspense So much tragedy in each of our two main characters, they both have their demons to work through before they can ever have a chance at love. I'm partial to some suspense in my romance novels and this book has plenty of thrills. Kayne and Jessica were exceptionally well-written characters and the complexities of their relationship only make the story better in the end. 6. Wait for It Author: Marianna Zapata Series: Stand Alone Category: Contemporary Romance Another slow burn (from the Queen of slow burns), the friends-to-lovers relationship between the two main characters is worth the long read. I liked that the children were both boys since most books in this trope focus on girls. Also, the character development of Diana as she learned how to be both a parent and an aunt was full of struggle but triumph - all made sweeter once Dallas worked his way out of the friend zone. 7. Law Man Author: Kristen Ashley Series: Dream Man Series book #3 Category: Romantic Suspense I've always been a huge fan of Kristen Ashley, and this book highlighted one of her best character relationships, Mara and Mitch. The realities of single parenting are more realistic in this book, but they don't take away from the growing love story of our two main characters. Mara was damaged but strong and all Mitch wanted was to be her white knight. 8. Worth the Fall Author: Claudia Connor Series: The McKinney Brothers Series book #1 Category: Contemporary Romance This book was a beautiful love story about a beach vacation romance that turns into something so much more. Flings with a timeline are always a fun read, and of course, neither Matt nor Abby were looking for love when they met but it certainly found them. Throw in four children and some emotional and physical scars, and we had a wonderfully fragile relationship testing if they could make it in the real world after their vacations ended.