Review: Guarding the Shadows by K.L. Shandwick 3 of 5 stars

Guarding the Shadows by K.L. Shandwick
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

Raff, a seasoned bodyguard for the rock band Screaming Shadows, lives by strict rules—protect, mitigate risk, and maintain boundaries. But when he forms a quiet, undeniable bond with Beth, the lead singer’s sister, those boundaries blur. Despite the chemistry, Raff resists temptation, unwilling to risk a forbidden romance that could compromise his professionalism. As the tour ends, Raff feels proud they never crossed the line—but the connection lingers, prompting him to reevaluate his priorities and the emotional cost of always choosing duty over desire. Determined to reshape his life, he returns home with a plan—only to be blindsided by a revelation that forces him to question everything he thought he knew about love, time, and what truly matters.

I enjoyed this short story written around bodyguard Raff in the Pulsetones Rock Gods series. I liked that this story focused on duty, desire, and the question of what truly matters. I liked how honourable Riff was and how determined he always was to do the right thing. Easy to read and understand. This was an MF story with mature content.

** Please note that this story first appeared in Hope Runs Deep: A Multi-Author Charity Collection Benefiting Kerr County, Texas.

Buy from Amazon

Review: EWB: Enemies With Benefits by N.R. Walker 5 of 5 stars

EWB: Enemies With Benefits by N.R. Walker
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Marshall Wise has spent years consumed by loathing for Valentine Tye—a visceral, lifelong hatred that borders on obsession. But beneath the fury lies something darker and more complicated: a desire that mirrors Valentine’s own twisted need to be hurt, used, and rejected. Valentine hides behind wealth and bravado, masking a deep emotional void that craves punishment over affection. He believes love is impossible for someone like him, especially from someone like Marshall. Yet as their volatile dynamic intensifies, both men are forced to confront the truth: sometimes the line between hate and longing is razor-thin, and the person who wounds you most might be the only one who truly sees you.

I loved this story with the hatred, desire, and the dangerous pull of emotional extremes between the two men. The whole story was an emotionally volatile exploration of hate, desire, and the fragile boundary between pain and intimacy. I was fascinated by Valentine constructing his identity around being hated, used, and discarded. His craving for pain wasn't just physical—it was emotional validation through punishment. It probed how trauma can distort self-worth, leading someone to seek out relationships that reinforce their internalised belief about being unlovable or broken. I also loved that despite their volatility, both men were deeply lonely. Their dynamic was a collision of two emotionally isolated people who don’t believe they deserve love—but who might, through pain and confrontation, find something resembling it. The story suggested that even the most jagged relationships can hold the potential for healing, if both parties are willing to face themselves. This story was jam packed with emotions and feelings as they both came to their own realisation that they loved each other and that they were worthy of that love. This was an MM story with mature content.

Buy from Amazon

Review: Finding Isaac by B.L. Maxwell 4 of 5 stars

Finding Isaac by B.L. Maxwell
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Isaac Grant has always called Foggy Basin home, content with casual flings and a carefree lifestyle—until his closest friend-with-benefits finds lasting love, leaving Isaac unexpectedly adrift and craving something deeper. Tig Sawyer left town years ago, chasing ambition and a faster pace. But when he returns, the quiet charm of Foggy Basin—and Isaac—pulls at something he didn’t know he missed. As the two reconnect, Isaac begins to question his resistance to commitment, and Tig, despite his polished exterior, seems more than ready to take a chance on the wild-hearted local who’s never had a reason to stay. What begins as curiosity might just become the real thing.

I loved this story with the two men who started from different attitudes towards their relationship but that rapidly expanded to be something far more in tune with each other. I loved that the story explored how intimacy can evolve—how physical connection can be a doorway to something more, and how emotional vulnerability transforms relationships from fleeting to lasting. I also loved that the story explored emotional surprise—how the right person can appear when we least expect it, and how openness to possibility can transform our understanding of what we need. Lots of emotions and feelings as their relationship solidified into something much more. This was an MM story with mature content.

Buy from Amazon

Review: Money Shot by Eden Finley by Saxon James 4 of 5 stars

Money Shot by Eden Finley by Saxon James
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Finn follows his sister to Edmonton for a fresh start, hoping to escape his workaholic rut and maybe find a real relationship. But his heart—and fantasies—are already tangled up in Gunner, a charismatic cam boy he’s been quietly obsessed with online. Things get complicated when Finn meets Curtis, the charming but emotionally unavailable best man at his sister’s wedding. There’s something uncannily familiar about him… and when Finn finally connects the dots, he realizes Curtis and Gunner might be the same person. Caught between fantasy and reality, Finn tries to walk away—but feelings don’t unsubscribe so easily. Now he must navigate the messy overlap of desire, identity, and the terrifying possibility that his dream guy might be closer—and more complicated—than he ever imagined.

I loved this story with the two men who were drawn to each other made more complex when Finn realised what Curtis has been doing as a side job. I liked how the story explored how fantasy can be comforting, but reality—though riskier—offers the potential for genuine emotional depth. I also liked how the story explored how emotional liberation comes not from perfection, but from being accepted in our most exposed, complicated states. I loved how the friends and family worked together to make them realise the truth of the relationship between them. A story full of emotions and feelings. This was an MM story with mature content.

Buy from Amazon

Review: Weapon in the Watermelon by Dale Mayer 4 of 5 stars

Weapon in the Watermelon by Dale Mayer
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

When a young couple is attacked while preparing for a catering job, whispers of a family curse resurface—one that seems to end in murder. Doreen, unable to resist meddling, discovers that the young woman’s mother was herself the victim of an unsolved murder, giving her the perfect cold case to dig into while Mack handles the official investigation. As Mack works through the suspicious death of a chef, Doreen juggles family drama, tangled loyalties, and the challenge of finding the right birthday gift for Nan. True to form, she manages to intertwine both mysteries and celebrations. But with the animals adding their own brand of chaos, nothing goes smoothly, and the case spirals into the kind of wild, unpredictable adventure only Doreen could create.

I loved this mystery story which was more than just quirky sleuthing; was was layered with themes of family, chaos, and the tension between order and unpredictability. I always love Doreen's persistence, intuition, and her refusal to let mysteries remain unsolved, even when it complicates official investigations. The so-called “curse” and the unsolved murder of the young woman’s mother highlighted how unresolved trauma and secrets can ripple through generations. I also loved how the recurring presence of the animals add humour and unpredictability, symbolizing how life resists control. They embodied that even the best-laid plans—whether in investigations or family gatherings—can be upended by forces beyond human management. I loved how the story was not just about solving crimes, but about navigating the messy intersections of family, community, and curiosity. This story was full of lots of complex feelings and emotions.

I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.

Buy from Amazon

Review: The Thorn and the Spire by Katherine McIntyre 4 of 5 stars

The Thorn and the Spire by Katherine McIntyre
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

When Beau’s search for his missing father leads him to the Spires—a perilous casino ruled by the infamous demon Cillian Ashmore—he offers himself in exchange for his father’s freedom. Assigned as Cillian’s personal assistant, Beau expects cruelty and chaos, but what he finds is far more complex. As he navigates the Spires’ shifting, monster-haunted halls, Beau uncovers layers of mystery and contradiction: Cillian’s coldness hides unexpected loyalty, and the demon’s terrifying reputation masks a soul shaped by pain and power. What begins as resentment slowly transforms into desire—and something deeper. But danger brews beyond the Spires, and Cillian’s enemies are closing in. As time runs out, Beau must decide whether to walk away—or risk everything for a love forged in shadows and secrets.

I really enjoyed this story with the two men who were drawn together even though they were very different. The story was a rich tapestry of mystery, emotional tension, and slow-burning intimacy.  I liked that Beau’s decision to take his father’s place was an act of selflessness that set the tone for the story. It introduced the theme of sacrifice—not just for family, but eventually for love. As Beau navigated the Spires, his journey became one of emotional redemption, not just for himself but for Cillian, whose own past was steeped in pain and isolation. I also liked that Cillian is running out of time, and Beau doesn’t know it. The looming threat added urgency to their connection, underscoring the theme that love is often forged in moments of crisis. It asked: what do we choose when time is slipping away? Who do we become when everything is at stake? Many emotions and feelings in this story although I did find Beau's state of confusion irritating at times. This was an MM story with mature content.

Buy from Amazon

Review: A Reason To Stay by R.J. Scott 4 of 5 stars

A Reason To Stay by R.J. Scott
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Viktor, a battle-hardened Navy SEAL, returns to his small Vermont hometown when his nephew witnesses a murder—forcing him into an investigation led by Aiden, the sheriff he once loved and left behind. Their reunion is tense, filled with unresolved pain and the threat of a killer lurking in the Green Mountains. As they navigate treacherous terrain, deadly secrets, and the emotional wreckage of their past, Viktor and Aiden must confront not only the danger hunting them—but the love that never truly faded. Survival means trusting each other again, and maybe, finally, choosing love over fear.

I loved this story of danger, heartbreak and their love that refused to die. I loved that both men are protectors by trade, but the story explored how emotional safety required more than physical strength—it demands openness and trust. I also enjoyed that the story asked whether love can survive betrayal and whether two changed men can rebuild something stronger from the ruins of their past and have a second chance. Lots of emotions and feelings merged with the danger and drama. This was an MM story with mature content.

Buy from Amazon

Anna Lowe has a BOXSET SALE on December 1-7

To celebrate the season, Anna Lowe is slashing the price of her box sets from $9.99 to only $4.99! Each bundle contains three great shifter romances & most include bonus epilogues so you can follow up on your favorite couples’ happily ever afters. Grab these incredible deals while the holiday sale lasts! Happy Holidays!

https://www.annalowebooks.com/2024/03/10/big-sale.html

#wolfpackbookbuzz #WolfPackReads #ParanormalRomance #shifterbooks #vampirebooks #shifterromance #booksale #books #boxsetsale 

Review: Caden & Theo by Becca Seymour 4 of 5 stars

Caden & Theo by Becca Seymour
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Theo and Caden were best friends and teammates—two boys from a small Southern town who found first love in secret. But one devastating night tore them apart, leaving Caden to rebuild his life far away and Theo rooted in the past, still teaching at their old high school and quietly nursing a broken heart. Fifteen years later, a high school reunion brings Caden back to Gomillion, forcing both men to confront the memories, mistakes, and unresolved feelings that have haunted them. As they face the truth of what they lost, they discover that some love stories never truly end—and this time, Theo is ready to fight for the one that got away.

I loved this story of a poignant exploration of first love, loss, and the enduring hope for redemption. I loved how Theo and Caden’s relationship began with innocence and intensity—first kiss, first love, first heartbreak. Their bond was forged in secrecy and emotional urgency, making the eventual rupture all the more devastating. I liked that their reunion is not just about rekindling romance, but about confronting who they’ve become. Their second chance explores how love can evolve, how timing matters, and how emotional maturity allows for deeper, more honest connection. A story full of emotions and feelings that will generate the odd tear. This was an MM story with mature content.

Buy from Amazon

Review: Gator by Jacki James 5 of 5 stars

Gator by Jacki James

My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Julius Petros is used to dazzling men who want surface-level sparkle, not substance. But when he witnesses a violent abduction, he turns to the one person who sees past the performance—Harlan “Gator” Thibodeaux, a cocky, charming ex-military protector with a lethal edge and a surprising depth of loyalty. As danger escalates and secrets unravel, Gator becomes Julius’s shield and safe haven, embracing not just his glitter and sass but the vulnerable heart beneath. Now Julius must choose: keep hiding behind the persona he’s crafted, or risk everything by letting Gator in—for real.

I loved this story with the two men who danced around each other with all of the glitter, danger, and Gator - the man who sees through it all. I loved that Julius had been treated as arm candy—desired but never truly valued. His journey was one of reclaiming his self-worth, learning that he deserved more than admiration; he deserved love. Gator’s unwavering attention helped Julius see himself through a new lens, one that honours both his sparkle and his substance. I also loved that Julius never expected someone like Gator to be the one who truly saw him. Their relationship challenged preconceived notions of compatibility and attraction. That suggested that love often arrives in unexpected forms—and that emotional recalibration is necessary when someone finally meets you where you are. Lots of emotions and feelings in this MM story with mature content.

Buy from Amazon

Review: The Telepath's Associate by Amy Padila 4 of 5 stars

The Telepath's Associate by Amy Padilla
My rating: 0 of 5 stars

Alistair is a battle-scarred veteran rebuilding his life after heartbreak and trauma. With his ex-wife gone and his kids taken, he finds purpose again through a temp agency and his brother Isaac’s support. He’s not looking for emotional entanglements—until a simple favour for Isaac introduces him to Elijah, a man whose quiet pain mirrors his own. Elijah has always wanted to help, but his telepathic powers make others uneasy. Isolation feels safer—until a plumbing disaster forces him into close quarters with Isaac’s gruff, guarded brother. Alistair’s protective instincts awaken something Elijah thought he’d buried: hope, desire, and the possibility of being truly seen.

I loved this story with the military trauma that Alistair had endured, as well as the loneliness and restrictions that Elijah was enduring. Alistair’s instinct to protect meets Elijah’s deep need to be accepted. But both are terrified of what that intimacy demands. I loved that their emotional defences clashed—Alistair’s stoicism versus Elijah’s vulnerability—but also complement each other. Alistair offers safety; Elijah offers emotional truth. The story becomes a slow unravelling of armour: Alistair learns that strength includes softness, and Elijah discovers that being seen doesn’t always mean being feared. This was an MM story with mature content.

Buy from Amazon

Review: Merry Little Christmas by Cassidy Lane 4 of 5 stars

Merry Little Christmas: An M/X Age Play Novella by Cassidy Lane
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Cole has been secretly in love with his best friend’s younger brother, Peyton, for as long as he can remember. As a Daddy, he’s searching for a very specific kind of Little—someone who fits not just emotionally, but intimately. Peyton has always felt like the impossible dream. But one vulnerable night, when Peyton’s quiet distress pierces Cole’s heart, everything shifts. Now Cole must ask himself: Is love worth risking a lifelong friendship? Peyton has harboured feelings for Cole—his brother’s best friend—since childhood. Being a Little makes dating complicated, and finding a Daddy who truly understands him has felt hopeless. He convinced himself Cole wasn’t the right fit. Until one rough, humiliating night, when Cole’s gentle care and quiet strength made Peyton’s heart ache with possibility. But one question looms: Will his brother accept the truth?

I loved this sweet novella. I could feel the longing and the bravery as they both moved forward with a relationship which had only been a dream up to now. I also loved the way that Cole cared for Peyton without making him feel self-conscious or ashamed. Easy to read, feel and understand. This was an MX story with mature content and a BDSM-like DDLB synamic.

Buy from Amazon

Review: Heart2Heart: A Charity Anthology, Volume 8 by Collected Authors 4 of 5 stars

Heart2Heart: A Charity Anthology, Volume 8 by Emmy Sanders by E.M. Denning by Becca Seymour by Charlie Novak by Kate Hawthorne
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

A great value anthology of queer stories. The H2H app is great for when you need a plus one for an event or someone to attend a class with you. Most are short stories, and many of them are well written with clear emotions and feelings that will make you smile. I loved them all. Most of them are MM stories with mature content.

Buy from Amazon

Review: Koa's Little Girl by Pepper North 3 of 5 stars

Koa's Little Girl by Pepper North
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

When Giana leaves a daring note for special forces officer Koa Lokela, asking if he’s a “daddy,” she sets off a chain of events that brings her deepest desires into reality. Koa’s firm but caring response opens the door to a relationship built on trust, structure, and emotional surrender. As their bond deepens, Giana finds comfort, discipline, and affection in Koa’s protective care—discovering that sometimes, the right person sees all of you and still chooses to stay.

I enjoyed this story with at its heart, the relationship between Giana and Koa which was centred on a consensual caregiver/little dynamic. This explored how emotional safety is created through structure, ritual, and nurturing attention. I loved the way that they both provided support for each other. Easy to read and understand. This was an MF story with mature content and a BDSM-like DDLG dynamic.

Buy from Amazon

Review: A Sugar Pine Christmas by A.D. Ellis 4 of 5 stars

A Sugar Pine Christmas by A.D. Ellis
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Mattie Blackwell returns to Sugar Pine hoping to heal old wounds, revive his art career, and finally settle down. What he doesn’t expect is to reconnect with Sam Benton—the man he once left behind. Sam’s life is unconventional but grounded, juggling web design and raising his nephew Toby. Though content, he quietly wonders if there’s more waiting for him beyond the daily routine. When Mattie and Sam cross paths again, it’s clear the timing that once failed them may finally be right. 

I really enjoyed this novella which was a a cozy, second-chance holiday romance about rediscovering love, embracing change, and finding home in the most unexpected places. I loved their sensitivity of Toby and his needs even though he played matchmaker between them both too. Plenty of emotions and feelings in this story as they reconnected. This was an MM story with mature content.

Buy from Amazon

Review: By the Numbers by R.J. Scott 4 of 5 stars

By the Numbers by R.J. Scott
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Brandon Hoselton is a brilliant but emotionally guarded man who uses logic and code to navigate a chaotic world. When his family is threatened, he’s forced to accept help from Sanctuary—a covert organization that assigns Daniel Karnes, a battle-scarred former Navy SEAL, to protect him. Daniel expects a routine mission, but Brandon’s courage, vulnerability, and hidden depths quickly unravel his defenses. As they work together to dismantle a dangerous criminal empire, their bond intensifies—but Brandon’s secrets could jeopardize everything. In a world of violence, betrayal, and buried truths, Daniel must decide if love is worth the risk… especially when the greatest danger may lie in the truths they refuse to face.

I loved this story which was a compelling blend of emotional vulnerability, high-stakes danger, and the slow unraveling of trust. I enjoyed that Brandon relies on numbers, code, and structure to make sense of a chaotic world whereas Daniel, shaped by physicality and instinct, operates from emotion and experience. Their dynamic explored how intellect and feeling can clash—and ultimately complement each other. I was also interested in how Brandon’s hidden truths threatened not just the mission, but their lives. The weight of secrecy could both protect but also endanger, and how silence can be both a shield and a prison. I loved the thought about what are we willing to risk to keep others safe, and what happens when the truth finally breaks through? Easy to read, feel and understand. This was an MM story with mature content.

Buy from Amazon

Review: Slam Dunk by Charity Parkerson 4 of 5 stars

Slam Dunk by Charity Parkerson
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Jathan may be famous, but his personal life feels empty—always the outsider in his own circle, watching others find connection while he drifts through a six-month stretch of boredom and isolation. With his only close friend now married, Jathan resolves to meet new people, though his awkwardness makes it difficult. At a ranch retreat, Quince—quiet, observant, and emotionally tangled—has been watching Jathan from afar. To Quince, Jathan is more than a celebrity; he’s kind, funny, and achingly out of reach. Now that Jathan has finally noticed him, Quince is caught between longing and silence, overwhelmed by everything he can’t say and the fear that Jathan will never truly see him. Their story simmers with quiet yearning, emotional distance, and the possibility of something more—if only Quince can find the courage to speak.

I loved this story of fame, loneliness, and the quiet ache of unspoken feelings. I liked that they explored the deep human need to be truly seen and valued, especially when surrounded by people who only notice the surface. I also liked how the story highlighted how loneliness isn’t about being alone, but about feeling disconnected even in the busiest rooms. Although the two men were in different worlds, the story highlighted how compatibility isn’t about lifestyle or status, but about emotional resonance: who makes you feel understood, safe, and alive. Easy to read, feel and understand. This was an MM story with mature content.

Buy from Amazon

Review: MOM by Casey Cox 4 of 5 stars

MOM by Casey Cox
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

After a scandalous wardrobe malfunction goes viral, chaotic bodybuilder Rocky finds himself banned from the Men of Muscle tournament and tangled in an FCC investigation. Desperate to salvage his career, he’s paired with Decker Carlson—a brilliant but emotionally guarded PR expert tasked with cleaning up the mess. The plan? A fake relationship with Decker’s friend to shift the narrative. The reality? A paparazzi photo of Decker and Rocky sparks a media frenzy, and suddenly they’re the couple everyone’s watching. As the chaos escalates, so does the undeniable chemistry between them. Beneath the public spectacle lies a deeper question: can a guarded PR genius take a chance on a walking disaster with a heart of gold—and can love be the one thing that finally goes right?

I loved this story which was a chaotic, hilarious, and surprisingly heartfelt journey through scandal, identity, and unexpected romance. I loved that Decker, the PR expert, thrives on control and professionalism and Rocky, by contrast, is impulsive and emotionally transparent. Their dynamic explored how vulnerability can challenge emotional walls, and how love often requires surrendering control to something unpredictable and real. Easy to read and understand. This was an MM story with mature content.

Buy from Amazon

Review: The Holiday Exchange by Riley Hart by Christina Lee 3 of 5 stars

The Holiday Exchange by Riley Hart by Christina Lee

My rating: 3 of 5 stars

Dawson has a quiet crush on Briar, the charming regular at his café. But just as he’s about to make a move, Briar shows up dating Dawson’s twin brother, Nathan. Three months later—right before Christmas—Nathan dumps Briar, leaving him heartbroken and without a date for his family holiday in Maine. In a twist worthy of a rom-com, Briar asks Dawson to pose as his boyfriend for the trip. What starts as a friendly favour quickly rekindles the spark Dawson always felt. As they navigate festive small-town charm, nosy relatives, and lingering feelings, Dawson must decide if he’s brave enough to confess the truth: he’s been falling for Briar all along. Now the question is—can a fake holiday romance turn into something real?

I enjoyed this novella which was a seasonal fake date story with the twin brother feeding into the confusion. I did find it a bit hard to get past the thought of the fact that Briar had had sex with both twins and how he resisted comparing their performance. The setting was very Hallmark Christmas Movie like which was nice. Easy to read and understand. This was an MM story with mature content.

Buy from Amazon

Review: Trapped by Charity Parkerson 4 of 5 stars

Trapped by Charity Parkerson
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Ridge has loved Shadow since childhood, their bond forged in the intensity of a spy program. Though Ridge hides his feelings, Shadow has always known — yet his choices and distance leave Ridge feeling trapped between devotion and resentment. Each time Shadow turns to someone else, Ridge’s love curdles into frustration, making it harder to separate affection from anger. Shadow, burdened by his identity as an assassin, believes he doesn’t deserve Ridge’s gentle, steadfast love. He sees himself as unworthy, convinced Ridge should be with someone safer, someone who matches his kindness. Yet despite his self-loathing, Shadow cannot deny his own love for Ridge, even as he fears it will only bring pain. Together, they are caught in a cycle of longing, guilt, and unspoken truths — two men bound by history, torn by duty, and struggling to reconcile love with the shadows of who they are.

I loved this story about two men bound by history and desire, struggling to believe that love can survive guilt, resentment, and the shadows of their past. I loved how the story  explored how deep love can coexist with bitterness, and how unresolved longing can become a trap. It was clear that their emotional imprisonment mirrored their literal training as spies — both are conditioned to suppress, conceal, and endure. At its core, this is a story about two men bound by history and desire, struggling to reconcile love with guilt, resentment, and the shadows of their past. It asks whether intimacy can survive when both partners feel trapped by who they are and what they’ve done. Easy to read and understand. This was an MM story with mature content.

Buy from Amazon

Review: Ghost by R.J. Scott 3 of 5 stars

Ghost by R.J. Scott
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

Elliot is a relentless tracker of criminals, sworn to bring down Ghost—a notorious assassin tied to a powerful crime syndicate. But when his pursuit leads him to Cole, the mission takes an unexpected turn. Cole, born into a violent legacy he never chose, is desperate to protect his sister and escape the shadow of his dying father. Forced into a fragile alliance, Elliot and Cole navigate a web of secrets, danger, and emotional tension. As their mission spirals out of control, the line between enemy and ally blurs—and the forbidden connection between them deepens. In a world where trust is lethal and love is a liability, Elliot and Cole must decide whether loyalty lies in duty… or in each other.

I struggled a bit with this story which was a rich tapestry of emotional tension, moral complexity, and forbidden connection. I think I found it hard to understand the connection between the lack of trust and cooperation from Cole and the way that the story ended up with them together. I could, however, see that both men needed to decide what they’re willing to sacrifice—for the mission, for each other, and for the chance at a future. I found this hard work to read which was sad when compared to the rest of the series. This was an MM story with mature content.

Buy from Amazon

Review: Forced to Share by Joelle Lynne 3 of 5 stars

Forced to Share by Joelle Lynne
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

Austin is excited to spend Christmas with his family, especially with his sister’s new fiancé joining them. But the holiday cheer takes a sharp turn when he discovers the fiancé is Jeremy—his ex from college and the last person he expected to see again. Jeremy, unaware that his fiancée has a twin brother, is blindsided when he realizes Austin is the man he once dated. As tensions rise and his relationship with Leah unravels, Jeremy finds himself stuck in the family home, sharing a room with Austin and facing unresolved emotions. What was supposed to be a joyful reunion becomes a tangled mess of past love, family drama, and the possibility that some connections aren’t so easily left behind.

I enjoyed this story with the exploration of how family gatherings can highlight both who we are and who we’ve become exploring the tension between familial roles (brother, etc) and personal identity, especially when those roles collide. Some of the story was farcical especially the sister's reaction. However, the situation did enable the themes of forced proximity, shared room, and family tension create a pressure-cooker environment. Easy to read and understand. This was an MM story with mature content.

Buy from Amazon

Review: Accidental Hero by R.J. Scott 4 of 5 stars

Accidental Hero by R.J. Scott
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Chicago cop Simon Grant is on the run, falsely accused of murder and hunted by ruthless enemies. Desperate and out of options, he seeks refuge at Sanctuary—only to be met by Cain Brodie, a man who doesn’t trust easily and has no reason to help. Cain, determined to keep his operation clean, reluctantly takes Simon in. But what begins as a tense alliance quickly deepens into something far more powerful: a bond forged in danger, loyalty, and unexpected desire. As betrayal and violence close in, Simon and Cain must navigate a deadly conspiracy and the fragile hope that love might be their only way out. When the dust settles, they’ll face the ultimate question—can love truly redeem two men shaped by shadows?

I loved this story which was packed with emotional depth and high-stakes tension. I liked how the story explored how trust is built not through words, but through action and sacrifice. I enjoyed that the story explored how crisis strips away pretense, revealing what truly matters. Love becomes not just a comfort, but a reason to fight, survive, and hope. Easy to read and understand. This was an MM story with mature content.

Buy from Amazon

Review: Sweet Vengeance by Riley Hart 4 of 5 stars

Sweet Vengeance by Riley Hart
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Cillian lives in a world shaped by violence and vengeance, so he’s stunned by his growing obsession with Ollie Gibson—a gentle, brave soul who seems to embody everything Cillian isn’t. Their connection is electric, forged in crisis when Ollie is attacked and Cillian steps in, not just to protect him, but to claim him. As their bond deepens, Cillian finds himself craving both Ollie’s innocence and his hidden fire. Despite their stark differences—criminal and future lawyer, killer and healer—they find solace in each other. But their love exists in a fragile space between light and darkness, and Cillian fears that one day, Ollie will walk away from the violence that defines him. What began as something temporary becomes a fierce, aching need. And Cillian must face the truth: loving Ollie might be the only thing that ever made him feel truly alive… and the one thing he may not be able to keep.

I loved this opposites attract story. At the heart of the story is the stark contrast between Cillian and Ollie—criminal and future lawyer, hardened and soft, violent and kind. Their relationship thrived in this tension, exploring how opposites can not only attract but also challenge and transform each other. It suggested that love doesn’t require sameness—it flourishes in difference.  I also loved that the story explored the fragility of love born in crisis, and the ache of knowing that something beautiful may not last. Easy to read, feel and understand. This was an MM story with mature content.

*** Please read the trigger warnings.

Buy from Amazon

NEW RELEASE - Marked by Moonlight by Anna Lowe #2 in the Château Nocturne series

 

• Dragons rage, vampires thirst, and thieves covet a lost masterpiece as one woman battles for her heart’s desire.
  

• with shifters, vampires, morally gray characters, and a long-lost masterpiece! 

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0FVT8N14Z

#shifterromance #WolfPackReads #ParanormalRomance #wolfpackbookbuzz #paranormalromance #vampirebooks 

Review: Cam & AJ by Hinsel Meyer 3 of 5 stars

Cam & AJ by Hinsel Meyer
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

Cam, a sports agent, agrees to a bold plan cooked up by his best friend and star client, AJ—a multiple Super Bowl-winning quarterback. The scheme? Pretend they’re secretly dating to help Cam navigate his twentieth high school reunion with confidence and flair. What starts as a playful ruse quickly spirals into something more complicated, especially when Cam realizes just how easily his classmates believe the lie. As the lines between friendship, loyalty, and desire begin to blur, Cam is forced to confront the possibility that this fake relationship might be revealing a very real truth about his feelings for AJ.

I enjoyed this story although I did think that some of the interactions and situations became farcical. Cam’s insecurities about returning to his high school reunion reflect a universal fear: being judged by who we were, not who we’ve become. The fake relationship with AJ becomes a shield—but also a mirror. The story explored how we curate our identities to fit expectations, and how love can reveal the truth beneath the performance. Easy to read and understand. This was an MM story with mature content.

Buy from Amazon

Review: Worlds Collide by R.J. Scott 4 of 5 stars

Worlds Collide by R.J. Scott
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

When a routine escort mission turns into a deadly ambush, Dale finds himself stranded in a snowy wilderness with a frightened witness and mounting casualties. His only lifeline is Joseph, a seasoned SEAL who will risk everything to rescue the man he loves. As the crisis intensifies, both men must confront old wounds and the depth of their bond. In the aftermath of violence and betrayal, they’re left with one burning question: can love survive the battlefield—and build something lasting beyond it?

I loved this story where the central theme is the resilience of love in the face of extreme danger. Dale and Joseph’s bond is tested by violence, betrayal, and high-stakes survival, yet it endures. Their connection becomes a lifeline, proving that love isn’t just romantic—it’s a source of strength and clarity when everything else falls apart. I liked that the remote setting strips away pretense, forcing characters to confront what truly matters. I loved that at the final showdown, Dale and Joseph needed to decide if their love could extend beyond crisis. The story ends with a question: when the danger is gone, can they build something lasting? This speaks to the fragility and power of hope—how survival is just the beginning of a deeper journey. Easy to feel and understand. This was an MM story with mature content.

Buy from Amazon

Review: My Best Friend Is Broken by Jessica Jackman 5 of 5 stars

My Best Friend Is Broken by Jessica Jackman
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Nicky’s life shattered the night his best friend Liam went to prison for a tragic accident that claimed a young girl’s life. Once the golden boy of their neighbourhood, Liam vanished behind bars—cutting off all contact, leaving Nicky to rise alone in a world that now feared and respected him. Five years later, Nicky waits at the prison gates, expecting a hardened man. Instead, he finds Liam broken—fragile, haunted, and clinging to the only person who still feels like home. Their reunion is raw and intimate, steeped in loyalty, grief, and a love that defies easy labels. When Liam begs Nicky to claim him—to make him his—it’s not just about comfort. It’s about survival. But for Nicky, the choice isn’t simple. Giving Liam what he needs might mean confronting his own buried feelings, his own fears, and the possibility that love could be the most dangerous thing of all.

I loved this dark story which asked can someone who’s been broken by their past ever be whole again? And can love be the bridge between shame and healing? The bond between the two men transcended time, trauma, and societal judgment. It explored how loyalty can be both a lifeline and a burden—especially when it’s tested by emotional complexity and unspoken desire. The story also story explored how trauma can reshape intimacy, and how desire can become a form of emotional survival. It asked whether love born from pain can still be real—and whether it can heal. I loved how both men were strong in their own way. So many emotions and feelings were worked into the story and the love that they both shared was strong enough to withstand everything thrown at them. Easy to read and understand. This was an MM story with mature content.

Buy from Amazon

Review: The Journal Of Sanctuary One by R.J. Scott 4 of 5 stars

The Journal Of Sanctuary One by R.J. Scott
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

In the days leading up to Christmas, Jake Callahan retreats to a remote cabin seeking solitude, only to be thrust into a tense and intimate survival scenario when Sean—a wounded stranger with a mysterious past—breaks in, fleeing danger and guided only by a cryptic clue from his father’s journal. As a snowstorm traps them together and enemies close in, Jake and Sean must navigate not just external threats but the emotional scars they carry. What begins as suspicion slowly transforms into trust, and the spark between them ignites into something deeper. In the heart of winter, surrounded by danger, they discover that love might be the only thing strong enough to save them both.

I loved this story with the danger, drama and passion. The snowstorm created physical isolation, but it also striped away distractions and defences.  The dynamic between Jake and Sean evolves from suspicion to mutual reliance, highlighting how trust is earned through compassion and shared danger. The story delved into how identity is shaped by both what we remember and what we uncover—and how confronting the past is essential for healing. Set during Christmas, the story uses the season’s symbolism—rebirth, reflection, and warmth—to underscore its emotional arc. Despite the cold and threat, the cabin becomes a place of renewal, where love offers a second chance and the possibility of peace. Easy to read, feel and understand. This was an MM story with mature content.

Buy from Amazon

Review: Bittersweet Revenge by Riley Hart 4 of 5 stars

Bittersweet Revenge by Riley Hart
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Dean has spent years in hiding, consumed by grief and a burning desire for revenge against Sloan O’Shea—the man who murdered his father. His plan is calculated: infiltrate Ashford University, earn the trust of Sloan’s son Tiernan, and use that bond to get close enough to destroy the man who shattered his life. But Tiernan isn’t just his father’s shadow. Beneath the arrogance and danger lies a fiercely loyal, unexpectedly tender soul. As Dean’s mission unfolds, he finds himself drawn to Tiernan in ways he never anticipated. Their connection is raw, electric, and deeply personal—forcing Dean to confront the cost of vengeance when love enters the equation. In the end, Dean must choose between justice and the one person who’s made him feel truly seen.

I loved this story of obsession, identity, and the aching complexity of falling for the enemy. At its heart, this is a story about the corrosive pull of vengeance and the unexpected possibility of healing.  Dean’s quest for vengeance is the driving force of the plot, but it’s challenged by the unexpected depth of his connection with Tiernan. The story explores how love can complicate, soften, or even dismantle a long-held desire for retribution. Both men conceal parts of themselves—Dean hides his past and motives, while Tiernan masks his vulnerability. Their relationship becomes a space where masks fall and true identities emerge. Dean’s pain is inherited from his father’s murder, and Tiernan bears the weight of his father’s sins. The story questions whether people are doomed to repeat the past or can choose a different path. Trust is both weapon and wound here as Dean gains Tiernan’s trust to destroy him, only to find himself emotionally compromised. This underscores how trust, once given, can change everything. A deeply emotional story with a lot of depth of feelings. This was an MM story with mature content.

Buy from Amazon

Review: A Little Christmas: Rivi by Wendy Rathbone 3 of 5 stars

A Little Christmas: Rivi by Wendy Rathbone
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

Rivi, a shy and self-conscious little, has long yearned for a nurturing connection but never dared to seek it—until a surprising discovery about his uncle Trent’s kink-friendly Christmas gathering offers a glimmer of possibility. Determined to attend, Rivi sees the holiday as a chance to finally find the daddy he's been dreaming of. Briar, a seasoned dom and daddy, feels emotionally adrift despite his experience. Burned out and uninspired, he accepts Trent’s invitation to the estate, hoping for a change. What he doesn’t expect is Rivi—a gentle soul who reignites something powerful within him. Set against the backdrop of a cozy, kink-positive Christmas retreat, their meeting sparks a transformative journey of trust, desire, and emotional renewal. It’s a story of second chances, self-acceptance, and the magic of finding someone who sees—and cherishes—you completely.

I really enjoyed this story where Rivi’s journey begins with deep insecurity—his quiet nature, appearance, and fear of rejection have kept him from embracing his identity as a little. The story explores how self-acceptance is a courageous act, especially when it means stepping into spaces where one feels exposed. His decision to attend the party is a turning point, symbolizing his readiness to be seen and valued. The dom/little dynamic is portrayed not as control, but as care. The story emphasised that power exchange, when rooted in trust and mutual respect, can be profoundly nurturing. Briar’s protective instincts and Rivi’s yearning for guidance create a bond that’s emotionally rich and deeply affirming. Easy to feel and understand. This was an MM story with mature content and a BDSM-like DDLB dynamic.

Buy from Amazon

Review: Full Circle by R.J. Scott 4 of 5 stars

Full Circle by R.J. Scott
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

When Josh, a protected witness haunted by his father’s criminal legacy, disappears into enemy territory seeking justice, he sets off a chain of events that could dismantle a powerful crime syndicate. Manny, a brilliant tech expert thrust into fieldwork, defies orders to rescue him—armed with nothing but determination and a growing emotional bond he can no longer ignore. As danger closes in, their mission becomes more than survival—it’s a journey of trust, redemption, and unexpected love. In a world where betrayal lurks around every corner, risking their hearts might be the most daring move of all.

I loved this story with the two men who were drawn together while being in a high-stakes environment—traps, betrayal, adrenaline—mirrors the internal chaos both characters face. Their courage isn’t just physical; it’s emotional. Trusting each other becomes the ultimate act of bravery. I also loved that what begun as a rescue mission evolved into a profound emotional connection. The theme of second chances is reframed—not just in love, but in self-worth. Their bond challenges them to believe they deserve more than survival—they deserve joy. Easy to read, feel and understand. This was an MM story with mature content.

Buy from Amazon

Review: Club Royal: Calendar Collection by Elouise East 4 of 5 stars

Club Royal: Calendar Collection by Elouise East
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This emotionally rich collection follows the Sutcliffe royal family and their partners through a year of deeply personal, often humorous, and occasionally provocative moments. Each chapter unveils a new facet of their lives—from tender family traditions and chaotic royal antics to intimate explorations of identity and desire.

I really enjoyed this collection of short stories around the Sutcliffe family members. It was wonderful to be back in their world and have an in-depth view of them. I loved that it was a celebration of connection—how love, in its many expressions, becomes the foundation for healing, joy, and transformation. I loved how the Royals shed their public masks to embrace vulnerability and truth. Easy to feel and understand. This was an MM and MMM story with mature content.

Buy from Amazon

Review: Still Waters by R.J. Scott 4 of 5 stars

Still Waters by R.J. Scott
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

He broke his heart. Now they’ll have to fight side by side—or die trying is a second-chance romantic thriller steeped in betrayal, unresolved longing, and the razor’s edge between love and survival. Adam, once a respected FBI agent, now operates in the covert world of Sanctuary—haunted by the man who accused him of treason and shattered his life: Lee. When the Bullen case forces them into a joint mission, old wounds resurface. Adam is cold, guarded, and still burning with resentment. Lee, torn between guilt and lingering desire, begins to question the truth he once stood by. Their reunion is volatile—charged with suspicion, regret, and the undeniable pull of unfinished love. As danger escalates and secrets unravel, they must decide whether to trust each other again—not just with the mission, but with their hearts. Because in a world built on shadows, love might be the only light left.

I loved this second chance romantic story where the rupture between Adam and Lee wasn't just professional—it was deeply personal. Their reunion is a battlefield of suppressed longing and unresolved rage. Every glance carried history. Every decision was laced with the fear of being hurt again.  Both men were seeking redemption—Adam for a past he didn’t choose, Lee for a mistake he can’t undo. Their bond becomes a path to healing, if they’re brave enough to walk it. In a world of shadows, love isn’t safe. It’s the most dangerous thing they can choose—and the only thing that might save them. The story wasn't just about rekindling romance—it was about whether forgiveness can rebuild what betrayal destroyed. Easy to read, feel and understand. This was an MM story with mature content.

Buy from Amazon

Review: Milk For His Daddy by Christine Aster 3 of 5 stars

Milk For His Daddy by Christine Aster
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

Leo is unapologetically single, thriving on one-night stands and self-indulgence. He’s confident, carefree, and fiercely independent—until Whit crashes into his life. Whit is a gentle giant with a nurturing kink and a longing for structure. Despite his Daddy appeal, he’s a Little at heart, craving care and connection. Their one-night stand is meant to be just that—but chemistry, vulnerability, and mutual need begin to shift the rules. As Leo grapples with the possibility of commitment and Whit searches for the Daddy he’s always needed, their dynamic evolves from lust to something far more intimate. The question isn’t just whether Leo can love—but whether he can lead, nurture, and claim a role he never thought he wanted.

I enjoyed this story which was a spicy, subversive romance that blended kink, identity, and unexpected emotional depth. Leo's string of one night stands was armour to avoid hurt and emotional entanglement. Whit was a paradox: physically imposing, sexually desired, yet emotionally tender and craving care. Their chemistry wasn't just physical—it was built on the tension between Leo’s resistance and Whit’s openness. This wasn't just a spicy romance—it’s a story about emotional reclamation. About how the roles we play in bed can reflect the truths we’re afraid to speak aloud. And how sometimes, the person who challenges your boundaries is the one who teaches you how to love. Easy to feel and understand. This was an MM story with mature content and a BSDM-like DDLB dynamic with male lactation.

Buy from Amazon

Review: Face Value by R.J. Scott 4 of 5 stars

?

Face Value by R.J. Scott
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Beckett Jamieson’s life implodes when he discovers he was born into the very crime family he’s vowed to destroy. After a brutal attack leaves him temporarily blind, he’s sent to a remote Sanctuary safe house to recover—angry, broken, and burning with purpose. Enter Kayden Summers: doctor, operative, and reluctant babysitter. He’s used to patching up wounds, not navigating the emotional landmines of a man like Beckett—wounded, volatile, and far too compelling. What begins as friction soon simmers into something deeper, as snowbound isolation strips away their defenses. But with the Bullen family closing in and secrets surfacing, their fragile bond is tested by danger, betrayal, and the fear of losing what they never expected to find: each other.

I loved this romantic suspense steeped in identity, vulnerability, and the slow thaw of guarded hearts. I liked how Beckett’s blindness reshaped the power dynamic between them and how trust became the most dangerous risk of all. There was a lot of danger and drama that was then replaced by passion and feelings as their relationship solidified and became much more. Easy to read and understand. This was an MM story with mature content.

Buy from Amazon