Hello and Happy Wednesday. I hope your week is off to a great start!
I'm sharing three books I read and quite enjoyed and maybe you'll find something here to read too!
After the Climb by Kristen Ashley
dual pov, vaguely descriptive heat, second chance contemporary romance
They were the Three Amigos: Duncan Holloway, Imogen Swan and Corey Szabo. Two young boys with difficult lives at home banding together with a cool girl who didn’t mind mucking through the mud on their hikes.
They grew up to be Duncan Holloway, activist, CEO and face of the popular River Rain outdoor stores, Imogen Swan, award-winning actress and America’s sweetheart, and Corey Szabo, ruthless tech billionaire.
Rich and very famous, they would learn the devastating knowledge of how the selfish acts of one would affect all their lives.
And the lives of those they loved.
Rating - 
After the Climb is a heartbreaking tale full of heartbroken characters. I loved the way they loved each other but the struggle was real. All it took was one lie, some insecurity, and everyone was left devastated. While I felt Duncan's pain, and even found a crumb of sympathy for Corey (dude needed to grow up), my greatest empathy was for Imogen. She was hit the worst and the hits didn't stop coming for her.
When the truth came out, I liked that Imogen and Duncan didn't waste any time and how on board their children were with the new plan. Even stepping in to help things along. Can these characters be any cuter?
I know I'm supposed to have some sort of feelings for the exes, but they made their beds, didn't they? And I don't think it's possible to redeem either of them, especially Tom. Spoiler Alert, but he's a cheater. Can we really forgive that he put Imogen and their children through that?
I'm just saying that the only happy endings I cared about were Imogen's and Duncan's. And maybe their kids because they were awesome.
After the Climb is a heartbreaking tale full of heartbroken characters. I loved the way they loved each other but the struggle was real. All it took was one lie, some insecurity, and everyone was left devastated. While I felt Duncan's pain, and even found a crumb of sympathy for Corey (dude needed to grow up), my greatest empathy was for Imogen. She was hit the worst and the hits didn't stop coming for her.
When the truth came out, I liked that Imogen and Duncan didn't waste any time and how on board their children were with the new plan. Even stepping in to help things along. Can these characters be any cuter?
I know I'm supposed to have some sort of feelings for the exes, but they made their beds, didn't they? And I don't think it's possible to redeem either of them, especially Tom. Spoiler Alert, but he's a cheater. Can we really forgive that he put Imogen and their children through that?
I'm just saying that the only happy endings I cared about were Imogen's and Duncan's. And maybe their kids because they were awesome.
Fatal Intrusion by Jeffrey Deaver and Isabella Maldonado
multiple pov, thriller
Carmen Sanchez is a tough Homeland Security agent who plays by the rules. But when her sister is attacked, revealing a connection to a series of murders across Southern California, she realizes a conventional investigation will not be enough to stop the ruthless perpetrator.
With nowhere else to turn, Sanchez enlists the aid of Professor Jake Heron, a brilliant and quirky private security expert who, unlike Sanchez, believes rules are merely suggestions. The two have a troubled past, but he owes her a favor and she’s cashing in. They team up to catch the assailant, who, mystifyingly, has no discernable motive and fits no classic criminal profile. All they have to go on is a distinctive tattoo and a singular obsession that gives this chillingly efficient tactician his nickname: Spider.
Over the next seventy-two hours, Sanchez and Heron find themselves in the midst of a lethal chess match with the killer as they race to stop the carnage. As the victims mount, so do the risks. Because this spider’s web of intrigue is more sinister—and goes far deeper—than anyone could possibly anticipate.
Rating -
If I never read the word intrusion again in the near future, I'll be a happy person.
But seriously, this was such an intriguing whodunit thriller. As the reader, we got to know who committed the crimes, but we were blind as to why. Not as blind as the investigators, possibly because Carmen couldn't help being in the way and Jake just let her ruthlessly run rough-shod over everyone, but still. Trying to figure out the motives for each crime was its own sort of fun. And crazy. I enjoyed myself and where this story left off, with the possibility of future books. And maybe a little romance between these characters thrown in?
If I never read the word intrusion again in the near future, I'll be a happy person.
But seriously, this was such an intriguing whodunit thriller. As the reader, we got to know who committed the crimes, but we were blind as to why. Not as blind as the investigators, possibly because Carmen couldn't help being in the way and Jake just let her ruthlessly run rough-shod over everyone, but still. Trying to figure out the motives for each crime was its own sort of fun. And crazy. I enjoyed myself and where this story left off, with the possibility of future books. And maybe a little romance between these characters thrown in?
Love Me Today by A.L. Jackson
dual pov, forced proximity, single parent, contemporary romance, descriptive heat
I should have known I was in trouble when I backed my old, beat-up truck into the shiny Range Rover.
The driver looked like a gorgeous fallen angel – one who’d been booted right out of paradise for being a giant prick.
Good thing I’ll never have to see him again.
Except when I show up for my new job to teach a little girl how to ride her horse, I find the same icy blue eyes glaring back at me.
Paisley Dae is completely reckless. She’s also the best trainer in this small town. And Evelyn gets the best.
Protecting the little girl is my one focus.
Only the sassy trainer in her cut-offs and cowgirl boots quickly gets under my skin. Distractions are dangerous, but she soon becomes everything I crave.
One reckless night of giving in, and Caleb and I spiral into a web of passion.
But when I begin to unravel the secrets hiding in this place, I find there is more riding on this job than I thought.
Caleb and Evelyn are worth any sacrifice – only Caleb has to decide what he will sacrifice for me
Rating - 1/2
Caleb was a tough nut to crack, but as the reader, we got some insight into why he was such a grumpy sourpuss. Paisley had to figure it out for herself and I admired her perseverance because I wouldn't do it. The romance would be over if I were in the lead.
This story led me on a path of sweetness and I never expected how sinister and dangerous it would become. The author really took me there and I loved that added bit of suspense.
It was the heartwarming moments that made this book worth reading. The relationship that grew between Paisley and Caleb and that sweet little girl made all of the scary bits worthwhile.
1/2Caleb was a tough nut to crack, but as the reader, we got some insight into why he was such a grumpy sourpuss. Paisley had to figure it out for herself and I admired her perseverance because I wouldn't do it. The romance would be over if I were in the lead.
This story led me on a path of sweetness and I never expected how sinister and dangerous it would become. The author really took me there and I loved that added bit of suspense.
It was the heartwarming moments that made this book worth reading. The relationship that grew between Paisley and Caleb and that sweet little girl made all of the scary bits worthwhile.
Hello hello! I'm back with some more books that didn't really work for me, but might be winners for you.
Let me know if you've read any of these or plan to. I'd love to know your thoughts!
The Boyfriend Collector by Mimi Jean Pamfiloff
Contemporary Romance
Treated like a servant in my own home, I can’t stop dreaming of my twenty-first birthday. It’s the day I’ll inherit a fortune, break free from my cruel family, and finally start living my life—finish school, travel, find love. After a lifetime of hardship, it’s all I’ve ever wanted.
Sadly, I’m about to discover a shocking secret my family’s been keeping from me. I must marry before my birthday to claim the money. Worst of all, he must be approved by my grandparents—the same people who are trying to steal my inheritance.
It’s ugly. But there’s no time for tears. If I want my fairy-tale to come true, I’ll have to find a man I can love and trust. Unfortunately, that’s easier said than done.
My Rating -
It's obviously Minority Monday.
I can't help it.
This is the first book by this author that I couldn't stand.
Nothing about it was appealing.
Not the heroine (ewww)
Not the hero? Heroes?
Nothing.
It's only one book. Everything else I've read from MJP are winners :D
It's obviously Minority Monday.
I can't help it.
This is the first book by this author that I couldn't stand.
Nothing about it was appealing.
Not the heroine (ewww)
Not the hero? Heroes?
Nothing.
It's only one book. Everything else I've read from MJP are winners :D
Sacred Places by Mandy M. Roth
dual pov fantasy romance
Ancient, eternal, magikal, and in love with a woman immune to his charms. The combination can bring even the strongest druid sorcerer to his knees. Coyle O'Caha, a seven-hundred-year-old, immortal druid sorcerer, has one claim to fame - his experience mentoring fledgling witches. Three years ago, he found his soulmate, Deri Sullivan. With Deri haunting his dreams, he can no longer wait to claim her. He's tired of waiting for her to fall for his charms and see that he's the man for her.
Of course, that's easier said than done since Deri is immune to both his charm and magik.
Deri Sullivan's boss is a real piece of work. Not only is Coyle a millionaire with a body to die for and an attitude to match, but he also has a Scottish lilt which makes her knees weak. He's a certified ladies' man. A man she should avoid at all costs. A man she can't seem to quit dreaming about. A man with whom she wishes she could share her secret.
Sometimes love happens at its own pace, other times, a supernatural nudge is needed.
My Rating -
I have to admit, I struggled with this book. It had all of the makings of a great story, but it didn't get there. Yeah, it was short, but that's not why I couldn't quite grasp the enjoyment I should have reached. It was just a bit all over the place. Deri made no sense and this ancient sorcerer named Coyle just allowed it. At one point, she slapped him twice in the face for NO REASON and he let her. Heck, he even got hot over it. But her reasoning MADE NO SENSE. The only drama and angst and bull came from Deri and her illogical behavior. It was tiring. How did I get so tired after reading such a short story?
I have to admit, I struggled with this book. It had all of the makings of a great story, but it didn't get there. Yeah, it was short, but that's not why I couldn't quite grasp the enjoyment I should have reached. It was just a bit all over the place. Deri made no sense and this ancient sorcerer named Coyle just allowed it. At one point, she slapped him twice in the face for NO REASON and he let her. Heck, he even got hot over it. But her reasoning MADE NO SENSE. The only drama and angst and bull came from Deri and her illogical behavior. It was tiring. How did I get so tired after reading such a short story?
Unseen Messages by Pepper Winters
dual pov contemporary romance
Fame and fortune arrived overnight and after months on the road with her singing tour, all Estelle craves is peace. Tired and ready for paradise, she travels to Fiji to recuperate.
Stubborn and surly, Galloway is avoided by most--which is exactly the way he likes it. However, he's done spending his life in regret and hopes to find redemption in the tropical wilderness.
Together, they board the flight that changes their fate forever. Crash landing on a deserted island, they not only have to figure out how to survive with no skills and daily dangers--learning how to fish, find water, and build shelter--but also inherit two children who look to them to keep them alive.
However, staying alive might be the least of Galloway and Estelle's problems. As days creep to months and rescue doesn't find them, their desire for each other ignites.
They started as strangers.
They grew to be friends.
They fought the desire to be lovers.
Lust can be the most beautiful thing. Love the most rewarding. But not on an island where life hangs by a thread and giving into temptation can kill you.
Can they survive being forgotten or will love be their ultimate undoing?
My Rating -
I wanted to love this book.
I thought for sure, this book was going to wreck me. I'm talking The Boy & His Ribbon kind of wrecked.
That's what I assumed anyway.
And to be incredibly honest, this book had the makings to ruin me.
Crashed helicopter. Dead bodies. Stranded on a deserted island. Uncertain futures...
But I couldn't click.
When the world is telling you to stop, dear Estelle, why do you continue to go?
So she wasn't the smartest cookie in the box.
And seriously, I didn't really feel much of anything until Connor died.
And then I kind of lost it. I got a bit mad. A bit frustrated. A lot annoyed. The End.
Everything after that just didn't work for me. Even the ending didn't work for me. I'm all about finding love in a hopeless place. But Estelle and Galloway were silly with it.
Naming their child Coconut was hilarious!!
I wanted to love this book.
I thought for sure, this book was going to wreck me. I'm talking The Boy & His Ribbon kind of wrecked.
That's what I assumed anyway.
And to be incredibly honest, this book had the makings to ruin me.
Crashed helicopter. Dead bodies. Stranded on a deserted island. Uncertain futures...
But I couldn't click.
When the world is telling you to stop, dear Estelle, why do you continue to go?
So she wasn't the smartest cookie in the box.
And seriously, I didn't really feel much of anything until Connor died.
And then I kind of lost it. I got a bit mad. A bit frustrated. A lot annoyed. The End.
Everything after that just didn't work for me. Even the ending didn't work for me. I'm all about finding love in a hopeless place. But Estelle and Galloway were silly with it.
Naming their child Coconut was hilarious!!
Please Note:
The Billionaire's Rules by Kelly Favor is a 16-book series and I stopped reading at #13. I read this back in 2015 so keep that in mind.About the Book:
Twenty-one-year-old Ivy Spellman has always played by the rules – get good grades, stay out of trouble, and avoid bad boys at all costs.But when she takes a temp assignment at a multi-billion dollar drug company, she can’t help but become intrigued with the sexy and ultra-demanding CEO, Cullen Sharpe.
Cullen Sharpe is used to getting what he wants, and his dark and damaged desires are locked on Ivy. Her good girl innocent routine is enough to drive him over the edge, and after Ivy makes a mistake at work, he senses an opening to teach the shy temp the pleasures and seductions of being bad...
…as well as the punishment that goes along with it.
Soon the two of them are locked in a game of mystery, seduction, and raging desire that knows no bounds. But as Ivy is pushed beyond her sexual limits, she begins to crave more from the dark billionaire.
However, Cullen guards his secrets and his heart for reasons that run deep. And if those reasons were to ever be revealed, it just might destroy them both.
Discipline
The Billionaire's Rules #1
Wasn't sure how to rate this.
It was over pretty quickly. I am, however, interested enough to read the next book.
Ummmm... Does Cullen have OCD? Is he a germaphobe?
I understood by the end (though I guessed from the start) that Ivy was a virgin, but that doesn't mean she has to act like a nitwit. I hope she develops a damn spine in this series.
I gave this TWO STARS.
Consequence
The Billionaire's Rules #2
Not sure what to make of this one. At least Cullen finally touched Ivy, no matter how briefly. The scene wasn't hot per se. But it was something. What I wouldn't give to read his POV. Ivy is annoying me :(
I know nothing of this man other than that he's the CEO of a pharmaceutical company, has a lot of money, is crazy hot, likes to be called sir or Mister Sharpe, and likes to dole out consequences. Ok ya but who is he?? These facts were enough to decide to give up your virginity Daisy? Seriously? You've known dude for a day.
I gave this THREE STARS.
Truth
The Billionaire's Rules #3
Still don't know who Cullen is but he seems just as obsessed as Daisy. She's just weird. I'm glad to see she's capable of independent thought but it's still not enough to win me over.
I shouldn't really categorize this as sexy because the one sex scene just wasn't. Which woman ever lost her virginity and thought "ooh that felt soooooo good?" Ummmmmm hell to the naw. That just isn't realistic. And dude knew she was a virgin. Where the hell was the prep??? Dude doesn't know about friggin foreplay??? I would not be giving up my hymen to someone who doesn't put in work. Shoot, she didn't even get a date. Well at least he gives her a paycheque.
I gave this THREE STARS.
Lies
The Billionaire's Rules #4
Ridiculous. The first clue we have as to who Cullen is comes from his rival Xavier (Dude was a neurosurgeon for 10 years?! How OLD is he???)
Do not get me started on the coffee shop scene. Ivy goes from klutzy, naive, hapless virgin one day to BJ lessons on a washroom floor? I'm not new to the sex game, but there is absolutely no way I would be servicing some guy on my knees in a random washroom. Especially for the first time!! There was no mention of this washroom being sterilized. WTH?!
That Lucas co-worker has seemed suspect from book 1. I want to see how he plays into the secrets surrounding Cullen. I wish Daisy luck in the upcoming books because she seems to be really falling for this man, albeit a little bit too quickly. How do these heroines fall in love with men they don't know?
I gave this THREE STARS.
Threat
The Billionaire's Rules #5
Ok now we're getting somewhere. I'm still on the hunt to discover the secrets about Cullen.
OMG did anyone else think Lucas was capable??? I just thought he was a lam-o. I knew he was up to something, but not that.
It seems Cullen is truly developing feelings for Ivy so I've decided to cut her some slack. I truly hope she catches a break in the next book.
That ending? Does this mean we may get Cullen's POV? Here's to wishful thinking!
I gave this THREE STARS.
Expose
The Billionaire's Rules #6
Well it seems we are finally getting to know more about Cullen.
He's finally opening up to Ivy, but holy crap she has to go through some ish to get it.
He's really rude and I just don't understand how she continues to put up with him.
I don't care how fine a man is. You disrespect and I'm out.
Fish in the sea and so on.
Maybe she's got some real strong self-esteem issues.
I guess we'll learn more about him in the next book. I wonder how his suggestion on how they can stay together is going to go over. I'm just glad she doesn't have to lie anymore.
I gave this THREE STARS.
Commit
The Billionaire's Rules #7
Wow. I didn't expect that to be Cullen's secret. Good to know he's devoted and loyal to someone. Guess he's not an android after all.
I'm just as confused as Ivy as to Cullen's motives to marry her. I was quite surprised at the arrangements he made to make her happy. It was sweet but I feel like it was all part of his manipulation.
I think there are obviously more secrets to be told.
That ending said it all lol.
As for Lucas... He's just evil.
I gave this THREE STARS.
Defy
The Billionaire's Rules #8
Wow... Looks like Ivy grew some balls in this one. She's not taking any bull from anyone. Good for her. I actually liked her in this one!
I'm trying to figure out if Xavier really likes Ivy or if he sees her as a weapon against Cullen. He's described as a good guy but something is off.
And I knew Cullen was crazy but damn! He beat up a car! I'm starting to see his possessiveness as a display of affection. I guess he truly cares for Ivy.
In a totally wrong way, but still.
I gave this THREE STARS.
Trouble
The Billionaire's Rules #9
Dammit Ivy's backbone keeps disappearing. And Cullen is just getting ruder.
Did I miss the part where it said he was crazy?
Like seriously crazy.
Mad. Sick.
And her mom did what any good mom would do. If one of my daughters called me up with Ivy's story, you better believe I'm rushing to her side and defending her the best way I know how. That's what her mom did. Maybe she didn't know all the facts, but she saw her baby girl hurting. What else was she supposed to do?
Whatever, his ass belongs in jail. He may not abuse her physically, but he does abuse her.
I gave this THREE STARS.
Risk
The Billionaire's Rules #10
Well I wonder if we'll see Cullen perform surgery ever again.
I wonder what his dad's role will be in his and Ivy's future.
I wonder if Cullen truly loves her.
Or is he still trying to manipulate and control her through her emotions.
I wonder if Ivy will be stronger in the end.
I wonder if there will be a HEA.
I wonder if they deserve one.
I wonder if there will be a semblance of closure for all parties involved.
That's why I'm still reading this series.
I gave this THREE STARS.
Fall
The Billionaire's Rules #11
I think this was the best one yet.
Finally I can feel the love (ok not really but at least Ivy says she does).
So much happened here.
So much drama.
A life hangs in the balance and only Dr. Cullen Sharpe can save it.
I wonder what Cullen's dad needed $2.6 million for.
Will Ivy forgive her mom?
And will Cullen have to face a trial and/or subsequent prison sentence?
Will it a all be revealed in the next book?
Well I'm gonna read to find out.
I gave this FOUR STARS.
Cherish
The Billionaire's Rules #12
I don't even know where to start.
This is the last book to tell Cullen and Ivy's story and it gave me NO satisfying conclusion.
Those who should be in trouble aren't.
The relationship still doesn't make any sense.
And I just read 12 books to get this?
Why?
I gave this THREE STARS.
Hunt
The Billionaire's Rules #13
I am disappointed.
I was glad to see another book, but I didn't get what I wanted from it.
I don't think enough time was spent on closing out the story of Cullen and Ivy before we were introduced to Brayden and Lanie.
I didn't care for it. At all.
I'm actually quite pissed.
I feel like I was pressured to finish the first part of the series.
It just didn't work for me.
Yes, the bathtub scene with Lanie was hilarious. But it could have been included in its own book.
I would have rather have read more about Cullen and Ivy and finished their story in a more satisfying way.
At least they got their HEA.
I guess that's what's important.
I gave this THREE STARS.
Invidia is the fifth book in the Shades of Sin series, featuring humans and their not-quite-so-human partners. For readers 18+
Find more information HERE
Find more information HERE
Invidia by Colette Rhodes
Rating -
Book 5 of the Shades of Sin series
Release - July 5, 2024
Genre - paranormal romance / instalove
POV - dual 1st person
Heat - explicit
Source - Kindle Unlimited
Length - 270 pages
Tallulah is confident, happy, and looking for love.
At least, on the outside.
Evrin is kind, thoughtful, and has plenty of love to give.
At least, on the inside.
In a world where it feels like they’re the only ones who don’t know where they belong, can Tallulah and Evrin find that sense of home in each other?
Or will they be too afraid to take a chance?
At least, on the outside.
Evrin is kind, thoughtful, and has plenty of love to give.
At least, on the inside.
In a world where it feels like they’re the only ones who don’t know where they belong, can Tallulah and Evrin find that sense of home in each other?
Or will they be too afraid to take a chance?
Tallulah put on a show while Evrin was self-assured, but they both had a problem: they didn't know how to communicate.
Get ready for a lot of time wasted believing one thing when it's really the other and you'd know if you would JUST TALK TO EACH OTHER!!
A little frustrating, but they do finally get there and I ended up loving these two together.
There were some growing pains and some insecurities to overcome, but I loved how these two supported each other once they were on the same page.
The suspenseful element was handled very well and I'm excited to see what else is to come from uniting hunters and shades.
Colette Rhodes is a huge fan of paranormal romance and reverse harem books. They're what she loves to read and what she loves to write. #WhyChoose, right?Colette studied both History and Ancient History at university and loves including both historical facts and ancient mythology in her work.
When she's not writing, you'll find her spending time with her husband and daughter in beautiful New Zealand.
Visit https://coletterhodes.com for more information
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