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Book cover

Title: Honestly, I'm Totally Faking It

Author: Amanda Gambill

*****Book review*****

>The St. Clair Situation<

I spent the first third to half of the book so annoyed with Rach Montgomery.  She's a complete train wreck in a way that had me considering not finishing this. 

While she remained gullible, the book did get more entertaining as it progressed.  Of course, the shower scenes with James Prescott (Pres) St. Clair IV certainly upped the likeablity quotient.  A lot.  ๐Ÿฅต

Even though he's gruff and struggled to connect with pretty much anyone on a human level, I did like Pres.  He's a bit pompous and got lost in statistics, but I'm surrounded by nerdy types regularly and understand them - most of the time. ๐Ÿ˜‰

I borrowed the audio book.  The narrator is new to me.  I liked Dahlia Summers.  She did a job job conveying the characters. 

Story:  3.5 stars
Narration:  4 stars 
Listening Speed:  2.5x

H = 28; h = early 20s

Book cover Title: Honestly, I'm Totally Faking It Author: Amanda Gambill *****Book review***** >The St. Clair Situation< I spent the first third to half of the book so annoyed with Rach Montgomery. She's a complete train wreck in a way that had me considering not finishing this. While she remained gullible, the book did get more entertaining as it progressed. Of course, the shower scenes with James Prescott (Pres) St. Clair IV certainly upped the likeablity quotient. A lot. ๐Ÿฅต Even though he's gruff and struggled to connect with pretty much anyone on a human level, I did like Pres. He's a bit pompous and got lost in statistics, but I'm surrounded by nerdy types regularly and understand them - most of the time. ๐Ÿ˜‰ I borrowed the audio book. The narrator is new to me. I liked Dahlia Summers. She did a job job conveying the characters. Story: 3.5 stars Narration: 4 stars Listening Speed: 2.5x H = 28; h = early 20s

๐Ÿ”ธ๏ธ REVIEW ๐Ÿ”ธ๏ธ

HONESTLY, I'M TOTALLY FAKING IT by #AmandaGambill, narrated by #DahliaSummers 3.5๐ŸŒŸ

I struggled to get over how the 1st half made me feel.

www.goodreads.com/review/show/...

๐ŸŒถ๐Ÿ“š๐Ÿ’™๐Ÿ“š๐ŸŽง #books #romancelandia #bookreview #bookrecs #goodread #steamyreads #dramedy #angstyread #workplaceromance

4 0 0 0
Book cover

Title: Haunted Love 

Author: Sheridan Anne 

Performed by: Heather Firth & Walker Williams 

*****Book review*****

>Vixen<

Holy hell!  It isn't long before the heat is so amped up that I am afraid of combusting.  ๐Ÿฅต๐Ÿฅต๐Ÿฅต

I LOVE the "stranger" encounter Aspen (Little Birdy) Ryder and Izaac Banks share.  The entire introduction to Vixen is erotic and amazing.  Add in the adventures that Bex and Aspen experience, and I never want to leave this club.  NEVER! 

-- Book quote 
'Even if I donโ€™t end up participating in anything, this is still the craziest night Iโ€™ve ever had.'
-- Aspen Ryder 

There is a point where I don't like anyone in the book.  Her brother is a complete hypocrite, and that doesn't sit well with me.  

The childish behavior aside, I am unable to stop listening until the final word.  It's erotic and steamy AF.  It's angsty.  It's realistic in most regards.  I look forward to more from this author! 

I borrowed the audio book.  The narrators, Walker Williams and Heather Firth, are easy to listen to and do a good job.  I've listened to both before, and I'll do it again. 

Story:  4.5 stars
Narration:  4 stars 
Listening Speed:  1.8x 

H = 28; h = 22

Book cover Title: Haunted Love Author: Sheridan Anne Performed by: Heather Firth & Walker Williams *****Book review***** >Vixen< Holy hell! It isn't long before the heat is so amped up that I am afraid of combusting. ๐Ÿฅต๐Ÿฅต๐Ÿฅต I LOVE the "stranger" encounter Aspen (Little Birdy) Ryder and Izaac Banks share. The entire introduction to Vixen is erotic and amazing. Add in the adventures that Bex and Aspen experience, and I never want to leave this club. NEVER! -- Book quote 'Even if I donโ€™t end up participating in anything, this is still the craziest night Iโ€™ve ever had.' -- Aspen Ryder There is a point where I don't like anyone in the book. Her brother is a complete hypocrite, and that doesn't sit well with me. The childish behavior aside, I am unable to stop listening until the final word. It's erotic and steamy AF. It's angsty. It's realistic in most regards. I look forward to more from this author! I borrowed the audio book. The narrators, Walker Williams and Heather Firth, are easy to listen to and do a good job. I've listened to both before, and I'll do it again. Story: 4.5 stars Narration: 4 stars Listening Speed: 1.8x H = 28; h = 22

๐Ÿ”ฅ REVIEW ๐Ÿ”ฅ

HAUNTING LOVE by #SheridanAnne, narrated by #HeatherFirth & #WalkerWilliams 4.5๐ŸŒŸ

Even when I disliked everyone, I loved this! Hot as hell

www.goodreads.com/review/show/...

๐ŸŒถ๐Ÿ“š๐Ÿ’™ #books #romancelandia #bookreview #bookrecs #goodread #audiobook #steamyreads #friendstolovers #angstyread

6 1 1 0
Preview
๐Ÿ–คโ„‚๐•†๐•๐”ผโ„ & ๐”น๐•ƒ๐•Œโ„๐”น โ„๐”ผ๐•๐”ผ๐”ธ๐•ƒ ๐Ÿ–ค ๐‘ฝ๐‘ฐ๐‘ช๐‘ฐ๐‘ถ๐‘ผ๐‘บ ๐‘ฐ๐‘ต๐‘ป๐‘ฌ๐‘ต๐‘ป๐‘ฐ๐‘ถ๐‘ต๐‘บ (The Next Vicious Generation Book 5) Mafia Romance by Ivy Fox releases on February 27th ๐‘ฝ๐‘ฐ๐‘ช๐‘ฐ๐‘ถ๐‘ผ๐‘บ ๐‘ฐ๐‘ต๐‘ป๐‘ฌ๐‘ต๐‘ป๐‘ฐ๐‘ถ๐‘ต๐‘บ (The Next Vicious Generation Book series) Mafia Romance read by author Ivy Fox,Amazon Kindle Unlimited Book Preord

"Enter the dangerous world of power, passion, and forbidden love in The Next Vicious Generationโ€”where blind loyalty always comes at a price."

#angstyread #Romancereads #IvyFox #Comingsoon #coverreveal #Wordsmithpublicity

awonderfulworldofwordsa.blogspot.com/2026/01/next...

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๐Ÿชฅ REVIEW ๐Ÿชฅ

TROUBLE WITH TRAVIS: Call Him Daddy bk 1 by #ChristinaHovland 4๐ŸŒŸ

This is funny & cute w smexy times "looking for her toothbrush" ๐Ÿ˜„

www.goodreads.com/review/show/...

๐ŸŒถ๐Ÿ“š๐Ÿ’™ #books #romancelandia #bookreview #bookrecs #goodread #indieauthor #steamyreads #forbiddenrom #dramedy #angstyread

4 2 0 0
Book cover, series

Boxset Title: The Dalton Family Bundle

Includes:  The Lawyer, The Billionaire, & The Single Dad

Author:  Marni Mann, USA Today bestselling author 

Performed by:  Kelsey Navarro, Tim Paige, Tor Thom, and Summer Morton 

*****Book review*****

>Steamy Meets, Steamier HEAs<

I've officially dipped my toes into Marni Mann's waters.  Geez, that sounds dirty.  ๐Ÿ˜‰  Eh, it fits the theme, honestly. 

I love the first meets for each couple and how their relationships navigate different challenges.  One of my favorite parts of the series was how tightly knit this family is.  I really enjoyed each book and will be back for more. 

The narrators, Kelsey Navarro, Tim Paige, Tor Thom, and Summer Morton, are good, but they'd be even better in duet.  I'm just saying....  ๐Ÿ˜Š  ๐ŸŽง๐Ÿ’›๐ŸŽง

Story:  4-4.5 stars
Narration:  3.5-4 stars 
Listening Speed:  1.8x

Book cover, series Boxset Title: The Dalton Family Bundle Includes: The Lawyer, The Billionaire, & The Single Dad Author: Marni Mann, USA Today bestselling author Performed by: Kelsey Navarro, Tim Paige, Tor Thom, and Summer Morton *****Book review***** >Steamy Meets, Steamier HEAs< I've officially dipped my toes into Marni Mann's waters. Geez, that sounds dirty. ๐Ÿ˜‰ Eh, it fits the theme, honestly. I love the first meets for each couple and how their relationships navigate different challenges. One of my favorite parts of the series was how tightly knit this family is. I really enjoyed each book and will be back for more. The narrators, Kelsey Navarro, Tim Paige, Tor Thom, and Summer Morton, are good, but they'd be even better in duet. I'm just saying.... ๐Ÿ˜Š ๐ŸŽง๐Ÿ’›๐ŸŽง Story: 4-4.5 stars Narration: 3.5-4 stars Listening Speed: 1.8x

๐Ÿ˜ REVIEW ๐ŸŽ‰

THE DALTON FAMILY BUNDLE BKS 1-3 by #MarniMann 4๐ŸŒŸ

A great intro to Marni's work. ๐ŸŒถ๐Ÿ’ฅ๐ŸŽ‚๐Ÿฉต

Indiv bks w narrators added ๐Ÿ‘‡

www.goodreads.com/review/show/...

๐ŸŒถ๐Ÿ“š๐Ÿ’™๐Ÿ“š๐ŸŽง #books #romancelandia #bookreview #bookrecs #goodread ##steamyreads #dramedy #angstyread #agegaprom #workplaceromance

3 0 3 0
Book cover 

Title: Kissing the Chef, 6ix Loves

Author: S.M. West, USA Today bestselling author 

*****Book review*****

>Love and Loss<

Always with the emotions!  Geez, Louise.  I was not prepared to be either crying or on the verge of tears for nearly 50% of the book.  Talk about an emotional wringer.  ๐Ÿ˜ญ๐Ÿคง๐Ÿ˜ญ

So, now that I've experienced the cathartic? (if you can call it that) release, I have to piece myself back together.  Hold my wine while I work on that, would ya?  ๐Ÿท  Wait.  I need a fortifying gulp first. 

...OK, let's talk about Chef Samson (Sam) Beaulieu.  For much of this, I love his calm, patient demeanor, but when he lets something fester or lets an investor dangle a carrot, he falls down the dark rabbit hole.  He does lose sight of what's important to him, but rarely for long.

-- Book quote 
'I want to call her, to tell her Iโ€™m sorry, to take back the accusation that poured from me like poison. But my pride is a stubborn bastard. And the thing about pride is itโ€™ll keep you warm until you realize itโ€™s whatโ€™s keeping you alone.'
-- Sam Beaulieu 

I love that even though Olivia (Liv, Livvy) Cassidy fights being in a relationship, she's still caring and willing to drop everything to be where she's needed. Her heart may not be as open as Sam's, but she loves just as hard. 

These two really are wonderful.  They make mistakes, but how they handle them is what kept me a fan. 

There are losses of a marriage, friendship, and loved one covered.  That last one really got me, but I wouldn't change a thing about it.  The bittersweetness and realistic way everything occurs was like an arrow to the heart, and simultaneously, a balm for the soul. 

Story:  5 stars

H = 30; h = 42

Book cover Title: Kissing the Chef, 6ix Loves Author: S.M. West, USA Today bestselling author *****Book review***** >Love and Loss< Always with the emotions! Geez, Louise. I was not prepared to be either crying or on the verge of tears for nearly 50% of the book. Talk about an emotional wringer. ๐Ÿ˜ญ๐Ÿคง๐Ÿ˜ญ So, now that I've experienced the cathartic? (if you can call it that) release, I have to piece myself back together. Hold my wine while I work on that, would ya? ๐Ÿท Wait. I need a fortifying gulp first. ...OK, let's talk about Chef Samson (Sam) Beaulieu. For much of this, I love his calm, patient demeanor, but when he lets something fester or lets an investor dangle a carrot, he falls down the dark rabbit hole. He does lose sight of what's important to him, but rarely for long. -- Book quote 'I want to call her, to tell her Iโ€™m sorry, to take back the accusation that poured from me like poison. But my pride is a stubborn bastard. And the thing about pride is itโ€™ll keep you warm until you realize itโ€™s whatโ€™s keeping you alone.' -- Sam Beaulieu I love that even though Olivia (Liv, Livvy) Cassidy fights being in a relationship, she's still caring and willing to drop everything to be where she's needed. Her heart may not be as open as Sam's, but she loves just as hard. These two really are wonderful. They make mistakes, but how they handle them is what kept me a fan. There are losses of a marriage, friendship, and loved one covered. That last one really got me, but I wouldn't change a thing about it. The bittersweetness and realistic way everything occurs was like an arrow to the heart, and simultaneously, a balm for the soul. Story: 5 stars H = 30; h = 42

โค๏ธ REVIEW โค๏ธ

KISSING THE CHEF: 6ix Loves bk 01 by #SMWest 5๐ŸŒŸ

Releases Jan 22

This is FANTASTIC! ๐ŸŒถ๐Ÿ˜ญโค๏ธ Oh, my word! Tears, laughs, steam, & more. Well written

www.goodreads.com/review/show/...

๐ŸŒถ๐Ÿ“š๐Ÿ’™ #books #romancelandia #bookreview #bookrecs #goodread #indieauthor #comingsoon #steamyreads #angstyread

2 0 2 0
Book cover 

Title: The Bratva Beast's Boo

Author: Layne Daniels, USA Today bestselling author 

*****Book review*****

>He's a Goner<

Zinovy (Sin) Bayev goes from zero to way over-the-#@%&ing-top when he encounters Petal (little bird) St. Clare.  While he does do some extreme things, you'll have to read to see, I love how utterly protective he is - even before they share a kiss.  Does he go too far?  Yes, of course, he does, but Petal finding her footing and voice may have needed it to surface. 

-- Book quote 
'Nothing about his appearance seems welcoming, yet a part of me feels as if Iโ€™m meant to crawl into his lap and curl into him.'
-- Petal St. Clare 

What happens with her ex is scary and heartbreaking, but seeing her slowly rise from the ashes like a phoenix has me cheering for her.  The people she chooses to surround herself with prove to be worth letting in.  I absolutely love this! 

The crossover with the Ghost Born MC doesn't require prior reading. 

H = 30; h = 22-23

Book cover Title: The Bratva Beast's Boo Author: Layne Daniels, USA Today bestselling author *****Book review***** >He's a Goner< Zinovy (Sin) Bayev goes from zero to way over-the-#@%&ing-top when he encounters Petal (little bird) St. Clare. While he does do some extreme things, you'll have to read to see, I love how utterly protective he is - even before they share a kiss. Does he go too far? Yes, of course, he does, but Petal finding her footing and voice may have needed it to surface. -- Book quote 'Nothing about his appearance seems welcoming, yet a part of me feels as if Iโ€™m meant to crawl into his lap and curl into him.' -- Petal St. Clare What happens with her ex is scary and heartbreaking, but seeing her slowly rise from the ashes like a phoenix has me cheering for her. The people she chooses to surround herself with prove to be worth letting in. I absolutely love this! The crossover with the Ghost Born MC doesn't require prior reading. H = 30; h = 22-23

๐Ÿ’š REVIEW ๐Ÿ’š

THE BRATVA BEAST'S BOO: Ghost Born MC crossover by #LayneDaniels 4๐ŸŒŸ

Possessive, OTT, & ๐Ÿ”ฅ - of course, I liked it! ๐Ÿ˜‰

www.goodreads.com/review/show/...

๐ŸŒถ๐Ÿ“š๐Ÿ’™ #books #romancelandia #bookreview #bookrecs #goodread #indieauthor #steamyreads #angstyread #darkromance #mafiaromance #ottromance

2 0 0 0
Book cover 

Title: Playing with Trouble, The Players Club Sinners 

Author: Erika Wilde, New York Times bestselling author 

*****Book review*****

>Banter, Role Play, and Taming a Brat<

Violet Corbin is a brat in need of taming, and Ford Perish thinks he's the man for the job.  These two... let's just say that Ford may have an inkling as to what he's getting himself into, but I like that she still manages to keep him guessing.  Well, sometimes, it's sad because she's so lost in her past that she fails to see the present or the potential of her future, but otherwise.... 

-- Book quote 
'โ€œCute threat, Perish. But letโ€™s be realโ€”โ€ I dragged my gaze down his chest and lower, lingering at the impressive bulge in his swimming trunks before meeting his eyes again. โ€œYou couldnโ€™t handle me if you tried.โ€'
-- Violet Corbin 

The tension is awesome!  The banter, steam, and role playing, including that bonus scene, are so good.  ๐Ÿ‘Œโค๏ธโ€๐Ÿ”ฅ

Prior reading isn't necessary, but this has pushed me to start working through Erika's backlist.  I've read a little here and there over the years, but I'm about to do some damage.  Maybe I'll get everything from her that I own read in the coming year.  ๐Ÿคž๐Ÿ˜‰

Story:  4 stars

H = ; h = 27

Book cover Title: Playing with Trouble, The Players Club Sinners Author: Erika Wilde, New York Times bestselling author *****Book review***** >Banter, Role Play, and Taming a Brat< Violet Corbin is a brat in need of taming, and Ford Perish thinks he's the man for the job. These two... let's just say that Ford may have an inkling as to what he's getting himself into, but I like that she still manages to keep him guessing. Well, sometimes, it's sad because she's so lost in her past that she fails to see the present or the potential of her future, but otherwise.... -- Book quote 'โ€œCute threat, Perish. But letโ€™s be realโ€”โ€ I dragged my gaze down his chest and lower, lingering at the impressive bulge in his swimming trunks before meeting his eyes again. โ€œYou couldnโ€™t handle me if you tried.โ€' -- Violet Corbin The tension is awesome! The banter, steam, and role playing, including that bonus scene, are so good. ๐Ÿ‘Œโค๏ธโ€๐Ÿ”ฅ Prior reading isn't necessary, but this has pushed me to start working through Erika's backlist. I've read a little here and there over the years, but I'm about to do some damage. Maybe I'll get everything from her that I own read in the coming year. ๐Ÿคž๐Ÿ˜‰ Story: 4 stars H = ; h = 27

๐ŸŽ‰ REVIEW ๐ŸŽ‰

PLAYING WITH TROUBLE: Players Club Sinners bk 2 by #ErikaWilde 4๐ŸŒŸ

This sent me to Erika's backlist - so good!

www.goodreads.com/review/show/...

๐ŸŒถ๐Ÿ“š๐Ÿ’™ #books #romancelandia #bookreview #bookrecs #goodread #audiobook #steamyreads #dramedy #enemiestolovers #bdsm #angstyread

2 0 0 0
Book cover

Title: The Nerd Next Door, a friends to Lovers romantic comedy

Author: Sylvie Stewart, USA Today bestselling author 

Narrated by: Amanda Stribling and David Black

*****Book review*****

>Slow Goes the Super Hero Transition<

I don't know if it's the fact that I'm riding the high from a spy / romantic suspense book or what, but I found this a bit slow and just OK.  I did consider not finishing or setting it aside, but I'm trying to do less of the latter and rarely do the former. 

-- Book quote 
'I sigh inwardly. I canโ€™t for the life of me figure out if this is really a date or if heโ€™s just trying to help me make friends.'
-- Haley Parker 

I like the general premise, and the twist with a misunderstanding is entertaining, but I was happy to move through this with some skimming.  Ted Jones does prove to be oblivious to some social cues.  While those are usually funny, I didn't find the same with Haley Parker's lack of situational awareness.

I read along with the audio book.  The narrators are new to me.  David Black and Amanda Stribling are good.  I like David a bit more.  ๐ŸŽง๐Ÿฉท๐ŸŽง

Story:  3 stars
Narration:  3.5 stars 
Listening Speed:  1.8x 

H = 30; h = 25?

Book cover Title: The Nerd Next Door, a friends to Lovers romantic comedy Author: Sylvie Stewart, USA Today bestselling author Narrated by: Amanda Stribling and David Black *****Book review***** >Slow Goes the Super Hero Transition< I don't know if it's the fact that I'm riding the high from a spy / romantic suspense book or what, but I found this a bit slow and just OK. I did consider not finishing or setting it aside, but I'm trying to do less of the latter and rarely do the former. -- Book quote 'I sigh inwardly. I canโ€™t for the life of me figure out if this is really a date or if heโ€™s just trying to help me make friends.' -- Haley Parker I like the general premise, and the twist with a misunderstanding is entertaining, but I was happy to move through this with some skimming. Ted Jones does prove to be oblivious to some social cues. While those are usually funny, I didn't find the same with Haley Parker's lack of situational awareness. I read along with the audio book. The narrators are new to me. David Black and Amanda Stribling are good. I like David a bit more. ๐ŸŽง๐Ÿฉท๐ŸŽง Story: 3 stars Narration: 3.5 stars Listening Speed: 1.8x H = 30; h = 25?

REVIEW

THE NERD NEXT DOOR: Carolina Kisses bk 1 by #SylvieStewart, narrated by #DavidBlack & #AnandaStribling 3๐ŸŒŸ

This wasn't bad, but I'm happy it's done.

www.goodreads.com/review/show/...

๐ŸŒถ๐Ÿ“š๐Ÿ’™ #books #romancelandia #bookreview #audiobook #dramedy #angstyread

3 0 0 0

๐Ÿ”น๏ธREVIEW๐Ÿ”น๏ธ

TWO TO LOVE: Nights in Bliss bk 2 by #LexiBlake, narrated by #KittyBang & #LeeSamuels 4๐ŸŒŸ

Steamy, angsty addition to the series!

www.goodreads.com/review/show/...

๐ŸŒถ๐Ÿ“š๐Ÿ’™ #books #romancelandia #bookreview #bookrecs #goodread #audiobook #steamyreads #dramedy #angstyread #suspense #ValentinePR

2 1 0 0
Book cover 

Title: The Wright Boss 

Author: K.A. Linde, USA Today bestselling author 

Read by: Joe Arden and Lidia Dornet 

*****Book review*****

>Finally Getting It Right<

There are some messed up and questionable things in Landon Wright and Heidi Martin's tale, but there are even more sweet and smexy times.  I don't like that it took him so long to truly leave Miranda, but what comes after is something, that's for certain.  As long as Miranda isn't involved, I like it.  She's a truly despicable person who gets zero empathy from me. 

-- Book quote 
โ€œIโ€™m just lost, and I want you to find me.โ€ 
-- Landon Wright 

They both make missteps that lead to drama.  I do love how their loved ones rally around them, ensuring things are made right.  The wild revelations that come to light didn't surprise me, but I'm glad that the closure was there, giving way to a cute and necessary ending. 

I read along with the audio book.  The narrators, Lidia Dornet and Joe Arden, make it easy to get lost in the story.  Duet would've been better, but this is still good.  ๐ŸŽง๐Ÿ’š๐ŸŽง

Story:  4 stars
Narration:  4 stars 
Listening Speed:  1.8x 

H & h = 28

Book cover Title: The Wright Boss Author: K.A. Linde, USA Today bestselling author Read by: Joe Arden and Lidia Dornet *****Book review***** >Finally Getting It Right< There are some messed up and questionable things in Landon Wright and Heidi Martin's tale, but there are even more sweet and smexy times. I don't like that it took him so long to truly leave Miranda, but what comes after is something, that's for certain. As long as Miranda isn't involved, I like it. She's a truly despicable person who gets zero empathy from me. -- Book quote โ€œIโ€™m just lost, and I want you to find me.โ€ -- Landon Wright They both make missteps that lead to drama. I do love how their loved ones rally around them, ensuring things are made right. The wild revelations that come to light didn't surprise me, but I'm glad that the closure was there, giving way to a cute and necessary ending. I read along with the audio book. The narrators, Lidia Dornet and Joe Arden, make it easy to get lost in the story. Duet would've been better, but this is still good. ๐ŸŽง๐Ÿ’š๐ŸŽง Story: 4 stars Narration: 4 stars Listening Speed: 1.8x H & h = 28

๐Ÿ’š REVIEW ๐Ÿ’š

THE WRIGHT BOSS: Wright bk 2 by #KALinde, narrated by #JoeArden & #LidiaDornet 4๐ŸŒŸ

The drama is as high as the heat for Heidi & Landon

www.goodreads.com/review/show/...

๐ŸŒถ๐Ÿ“š๐Ÿ’™ #books #romancelandia #bookreview #bookrecs #goodread #audiobook #steamyreads #angstyread #workplaceromance

2 0 0 0
Book cover 

Title: Rifts and Refrains

Author: Tiye, USA Today bestselling author, with Keisha Mennefee

*****Book review*****

>Healing Tones<

Learning about Marcus "Stoney" Johnson, Sr, Amara "Mari" Johnson's estranged grandfather, sends Mari on a journey.  It is a rollercoaster as she sets out to learn her roots and pursue her passion - music. 

From the opening pages, I find more than one mystery solve, including the one whispered about by neighbors.  It catches my attention quickly and has me ensuring I get to the end in short order. 

One thing that has me on the fence with my rating is the toying with fidelity.  The line is definitely blurred, in my opinion, but not entirely crossed as Mari and Jake Barnes explore music and the past together. 

-- Book quote 
Jake Barnes:  โ€œYou always drink like a man?โ€ 

Amara Johnson:  โ€œI like what I like. Who says itโ€™s a manโ€™s drink?โ€ 

Jake Barnes:  โ€œApparently, everyone but you."

I love that she normally holds her ground, be it with Jake, Phillip the fiancรฉ, her family, or others.  She doesn't apologize for liking what she likes.  That said, from early on, I struggle with her relationship with Phillip.  How can they be together for as long as they have, and he be so completely clueless about a love of hers that's soul deep?  It's baffling. 

I borrowed the audio book.  Even though I had to kick the speed up (I finished about half an hour before my loan ran out), I really liked the narrators, iiKane and Benjamin Charles.  ๐Ÿ˜‰ ๐ŸŽง๐Ÿงก๐ŸŽง

Story:  4 stars
Narration:  4 stars 
Listening Speed:  2.5x

Book cover Title: Rifts and Refrains Author: Tiye, USA Today bestselling author, with Keisha Mennefee *****Book review***** >Healing Tones< Learning about Marcus "Stoney" Johnson, Sr, Amara "Mari" Johnson's estranged grandfather, sends Mari on a journey. It is a rollercoaster as she sets out to learn her roots and pursue her passion - music. From the opening pages, I find more than one mystery solve, including the one whispered about by neighbors. It catches my attention quickly and has me ensuring I get to the end in short order. One thing that has me on the fence with my rating is the toying with fidelity. The line is definitely blurred, in my opinion, but not entirely crossed as Mari and Jake Barnes explore music and the past together. -- Book quote Jake Barnes: โ€œYou always drink like a man?โ€ Amara Johnson: โ€œI like what I like. Who says itโ€™s a manโ€™s drink?โ€ Jake Barnes: โ€œApparently, everyone but you." I love that she normally holds her ground, be it with Jake, Phillip the fiancรฉ, her family, or others. She doesn't apologize for liking what she likes. That said, from early on, I struggle with her relationship with Phillip. How can they be together for as long as they have, and he be so completely clueless about a love of hers that's soul deep? It's baffling. I borrowed the audio book. Even though I had to kick the speed up (I finished about half an hour before my loan ran out), I really liked the narrators, iiKane and Benjamin Charles. ๐Ÿ˜‰ ๐ŸŽง๐Ÿงก๐ŸŽง Story: 4 stars Narration: 4 stars Listening Speed: 2.5x

๐ŸŽค REVIEW ๐ŸŽถ

RIFTS AND REFRAINS by #Tiye w #KeishaMennefee, narrated by #iiKane & #BenjaminCharles 4๐ŸŒŸ

Good drama & romance as Mari explores her passions โค๏ธโ€๐Ÿ”ฅ

www.goodreads.com/review/show/...

๐ŸŒถ๐Ÿ“š๐Ÿ’™ #books #romancelandia #bookreview #bookrecs #goodread #audiobook #indieauthor #steamyreads #angstyread

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๐Ÿ–คโ„‚๐•†๐•๐”ผโ„ & ๐”น๐•ƒ๐•Œโ„๐”น โ„๐”ผ๐•๐”ผ๐”ธ๐•ƒ ๐Ÿ–ค

๐•๐ˆ๐‚๐ˆ๐Ž๐”๐’ ๐ƒ๐„๐’๐ˆ๐‘๐„๐’: A Mafia Romance (The Next Vicious Generation Book 4) by USA Today bestselling author Ivy Fox releases on November 30th. We are thrilled to share this gorgeous cover with you!

PRE-ORDER geni.us/ViciousDesires

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Marriage of Revenge: A Dark Mafia Romance (Mafia Vows of Blood and Love Book 1)

Marriage of Revenge: A Dark Mafia Romance (Mafia Vows of Blood and Love Book 1)

Marriage of Revenge: A Dark Mafia Romance (Mafia Vows of Blood and Love Book 1) by #ElleLove

www.amazon.com/dp/B0D438H5WN

#freebie #mafiaromance #darkromance #enemiestolovers #angstyread #steamyreads #booksky #romancelandia #books #smutsky

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Video

My Review of
Morally Corrupt by Veronica Lancet

Available Now

Morally Corrupt is a romantic thriller with elements of horror and gore. Please read the triggers before proceeding.

#veronicalancetauthor #darkromance #strongfmc #angstyread #morallycorrupt #neapolitan670

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Preview
๐Ÿ–ค๐‘ต๐‘ฌ๐‘พ ๐‘น๐‘ฌ๐‘ณ๐‘ฌ๐‘จ๐‘บ๐‘ฌ ๐Ÿ–ค Vicious Behaviors (The Next Vicious Generation Book 3) A Mafia Romance by USA Today bestselling author Ivy Fox is NOW LIVE! kindle unlimited book,Vicious Behaviors(The Next Vicious Generation Book Series), Mafia Romance Book Release, Author Ivy Fox, Angsty Romance Book

๐–๐ก๐š๐ญ ๐œ๐š๐ง ๐ฒ๐จ๐ฎ ๐ž๐ฑ๐ฉ๐ž๐œ๐ญ ๐Ÿ๐ซ๐จ๐ฆ ๐•๐ข๐œ๐ข๐จ๐ฎ๐ฌ ๐๐ž๐ก๐š๐ฏ๐ข๐จ๐ซ๐ฌ:

โœ”๏ธUnhinged Anti-Hero

โœ”๏ธStalker / Boy Obsessed

โœ”๏ธHe Falls First

โœ”๏ธTouch Her and โ˜ ๏ธ Vibes

โœ”๏ธAnd a whole lot of ANGST!

#angstyread #Romancereads #IvyFox #kindleunlimited #Newrelease #Wordsmithpublicity

awonderfulworldofwordsa.blogspot.com/2025/08/vici...

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VICIOUS BEHAVIORS: A Mafia Romance (The Next Vicious Generation Book 3) by author @ivyfoxauthor.bsky.social is NOW LIVE!

ONE-CLICK TODAY! FREE WITH KINDLE UNLIMITED!
www.amazon.com/gp/ViciousBe...

#Viciousbehaviors #angstyread #Romancereads #IvyFox #Nowlive #Newrelease #Wordsmithpublicity

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(Book cover) 

Title: His Wild Heart, Vibrant Ink Book 2

Author: Ember Davis

(Book cover) Title: His Wild Heart, Vibrant Ink Book 2 Author: Ember Davis

(Book review) 

>Love This!<

Bridger Madison is 100% swoon worthy!  OMG, he is just so sweet and open.  Sure, he has some major self-worth issues to work through, but that doesn't stop him from seeing the value in those around him.  I just love him!

-- Book quote 
'I can't remember the last time I was looking forward to anything. But this life with her? I want it, and I'm going to fight for it.'
-- Bridger Madison 

Their backgrounds might be night and day, but I like that Avery Page has some similar struggles, and together, they pull the best versions of each other up and out into the world.  They ground each other, and their self-esteem is bolstered by a simple touch and general presence. 

I love that it's low drama (and a little high heat) between them.  There are stressors, but they're from outside this found family.  And oh, how those stressors are dealt with.  ๐Ÿ‘Œ  Perfectly. 

I need more of this couple / world! 

H = 30s?; h = 28

(Book review) >Love This!< Bridger Madison is 100% swoon worthy! OMG, he is just so sweet and open. Sure, he has some major self-worth issues to work through, but that doesn't stop him from seeing the value in those around him. I just love him! -- Book quote 'I can't remember the last time I was looking forward to anything. But this life with her? I want it, and I'm going to fight for it.' -- Bridger Madison Their backgrounds might be night and day, but I like that Avery Page has some similar struggles, and together, they pull the best versions of each other up and out into the world. They ground each other, and their self-esteem is bolstered by a simple touch and general presence. I love that it's low drama (and a little high heat) between them. There are stressors, but they're from outside this found family. And oh, how those stressors are dealt with. ๐Ÿ‘Œ Perfectly. I need more of this couple / world! H = 30s?; h = 28

โค๏ธREVIEWโค๏ธ

HIS WILD HEART: Vibrant Ink 2 by #EmberDavis 5๐ŸŒŸ

I ๐Ÿ’™ Bridger, Avery, & their found family!

www.goodreads.com/review/show/...

๐ŸŒถ๐Ÿ“š๐Ÿ’™ #booksky #books #smutsky #bookreview #bookrecs #romancelandia #indieauthor #newrelease #goodread #momswhoread #steamyreads #angstyread #secretbaby #VibrantInk

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Wreck My World

Wreck My World

Wreck My World by #VictoriaAshley

www.amazon.com/dp/B07TCBC38L

#freebie #smutsky #romancelandia #booksky #books #angstyread #friendstolovers

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๐Ÿ”ฅ ๐๐„๐– ๐‘๐„๐‹๐„๐€๐’๐„ ๐€๐‹๐„๐‘๐“ ๐Ÿ”ฅ

Midnight Between Us by @claudiaburgoa.bsky.social is available now!

Free with your KU subscription.

Grab it here: geni.us/MidnightBetw...

#SecondChanceRomance #AudiobookLovers #KeirAndSimone #Timberbridgebrothers #nothirdactbreakup #Slowburn #Emotionalromance #angstyread

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(Book cover) 

Title: Dare to Take

Author: Carly Phillips, New York Times bestselling author

(Book cover) Title: Dare to Take Author: Carly Phillips, New York Times bestselling author

(Book review) 

>Fixing Past Wrongs<

Tyler Dare is pretty good at setting the wrong impressions when it comes to Ella Shaw.  I agree with him that he really messed up with her when she was 18.  Not only did she completely misinterpret the situation post-coital, but it set the stage for further issues.  Oh, how I feel for her. 

-- Book quote 
'Warning bells went off in her head, but she was too far gone to heed them. Until his fingers slid up her sides, gliding over her skin, reaching beneath her shirt, and coming to rest beneath her breasts.'
-- Ella Shaw 

Despite the poor impression that this starts with, I think Tyler redeems himself in a couple of ways.  I really like how he shows up and shows out for Ella and his family.  Overall, another wonderful addition to the Dare family saga. 

I read along with the audio book.  The narrator is Sophie Eastlake, who provides a good and consistent listening experience. 

Story:  4 stars
Narration:  4 stars 
Listening Speed:  1.8x

H = 32; h = 27

(Book review) >Fixing Past Wrongs< Tyler Dare is pretty good at setting the wrong impressions when it comes to Ella Shaw. I agree with him that he really messed up with her when she was 18. Not only did she completely misinterpret the situation post-coital, but it set the stage for further issues. Oh, how I feel for her. -- Book quote 'Warning bells went off in her head, but she was too far gone to heed them. Until his fingers slid up her sides, gliding over her skin, reaching beneath her shirt, and coming to rest beneath her breasts.' -- Ella Shaw Despite the poor impression that this starts with, I think Tyler redeems himself in a couple of ways. I really like how he shows up and shows out for Ella and his family. Overall, another wonderful addition to the Dare family saga. I read along with the audio book. The narrator is Sophie Eastlake, who provides a good and consistent listening experience. Story: 4 stars Narration: 4 stars Listening Speed: 1.8x H = 32; h = 27

โœ…๏ธREVIEWโœ…๏ธ

DARE TO TAKE, #DaretoLove bk, by #CarlyPhillips, narrated by #SophieEastlake 4๐ŸŒŸ

It's hard not to like this couple.

www.goodreads.com/review/show/...

๐ŸŒถ๐Ÿ“š๐Ÿ’™ #booksky #books #smutsky #bookreview #bookrecs #romancelandia #audiobook #goodread #momswhoread #steamyreads #angstyread #secondchance

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(Book cover, series) 

Boxset Title: The Sexy series

Includes: More than Sexy, Twice as Sexy, & Better than Sexy 

Author: Carly Phillips, New York Times bestselling author

(Book cover, series) Boxset Title: The Sexy series Includes: More than Sexy, Twice as Sexy, & Better than Sexy Author: Carly Phillips, New York Times bestselling author

(Book review) 

>Healing with a Side of Drama<

The name of their nightclub, TEN29, may represent a horrible time in their lives, but the club itself brings them renewal in the form of the women who help them heal and grow.  I liked each book.  The relationships are great with plenty of sizzle, but I think the thing I most love are the friendships. 

I read along with the audio book.  The narrator, Angela Dawe, did a good job.  Even though I'd prefer a counterpart for the male voices, she was easy to listen to. 

BTW - prior reading (Dare to Love, NY Dares, and Knight Brothers series) isn't required, but I do recommend it if you can.

Story:  4 stars
Narration:  4 stars 
Listening Speed:  1.8x

(Book review) >Healing with a Side of Drama< The name of their nightclub, TEN29, may represent a horrible time in their lives, but the club itself brings them renewal in the form of the women who help them heal and grow. I liked each book. The relationships are great with plenty of sizzle, but I think the thing I most love are the friendships. I read along with the audio book. The narrator, Angela Dawe, did a good job. Even though I'd prefer a counterpart for the male voices, she was easy to listen to. BTW - prior reading (Dare to Love, NY Dares, and Knight Brothers series) isn't required, but I do recommend it if you can. Story: 4 stars Narration: 4 stars Listening Speed: 1.8x

๐Ÿ“š๐Ÿ“—REVIEW๐Ÿ“—๐Ÿ“š

THE SEXY SERIES bks 1-3 by #CarlyPhillips, narrated by #AngelaDawe 4๐ŸŒŸ

Sizzle and drama - they have it in spades!

www.goodreads.com/review/show/...

๐ŸŒถ๐Ÿ“š๐Ÿ’™ #booksky #books #smutsky #bookreview #bookrecs #romancelandia #audiobook #goodread #momswhoread #steamyreads #spicyreads #angstyread

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#romancebooks #steamyreads #spicyreads #spicyread #rombks #romancelandia #angstyread #sportsromance #momswhoread

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Post image (Book review) 

To Haunt or Be Haunted

Jenny MacPartland is in for WAY more than she bargained for with her new husband, Erich Krueger, and his farm.  The secrets and eww factors are in high supply.  The simplicity of the deception is woven in a fantastic manner, creating a really good read. 

This is my second time reading this.  I was a teenager the first time I acquired a dog-earred book from an employer.  It was the first suspense book I'd ever read, and it hooked me.  I went on to read every Mary Higgins Clark book in my local library before moving to other authors. 

I loved stepping back in time.  There are red flags and plenty of gaslighting to be had, most of which my naรฏve self missed the first time, but it's also part of what drove me to continue.  I've read thousands of books since the first go-round, so I had forgotten much more than I remembered, but I loved when a memory was triggered.

I'm so happy that I picked this up again.  

H = 35; h = 26

(Book review) To Haunt or Be Haunted Jenny MacPartland is in for WAY more than she bargained for with her new husband, Erich Krueger, and his farm. The secrets and eww factors are in high supply. The simplicity of the deception is woven in a fantastic manner, creating a really good read. This is my second time reading this. I was a teenager the first time I acquired a dog-earred book from an employer. It was the first suspense book I'd ever read, and it hooked me. I went on to read every Mary Higgins Clark book in my local library before moving to other authors. I loved stepping back in time. There are red flags and plenty of gaslighting to be had, most of which my naรฏve self missed the first time, but it's also part of what drove me to continue. I've read thousands of books since the first go-round, so I had forgotten much more than I remembered, but I loved when a memory was triggered. I'm so happy that I picked this up again. H = 35; h = 26

๐Ÿ€REVIEW๐Ÿ€

A CRY IN THE NIGHT by Mary Higgins Clark 4๐ŸŒŸ

The ๐Ÿšฉ brigade is strong in this one, but it's great suspense.

www.goodreads.com/review/show/...

๐Ÿ“š๐Ÿ’™ #booksky #books #bookreview #bookrecs #goodread #angstyread #suspense #crimefiction #momswhoread

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#NEWRELEASE - out now!
Music on the Wind
buff.ly/4ipkv5L
Everybody's talking 'bout this one! #bestseller
#music #MMRomance #angstyread #readqueerallyear

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#romancebooks #steamyreads #spicyreads #spicyread #rombks #romancelandia #angstyread #sportsromance #momswhoread #enemiestolovers #dramedy #workplaceromance #alphahole

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#NEWRELEASE - out now!
Music on the Wind
buff.ly/4ipkv5L
Everybody's talking 'bout this one! #bestseller
#music #MMRomance #angstyread #readqueerallyear

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#spicyreads #spicyread #rombks #romancelandia #angstyread #darkromance #mafiaromance #momswhoread #friendstolovers

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#erotica #spicyread #angstyread #MCromance #darkromance #agegaprom #ottromance #instalove #novella #momswhoread #ChangelingPress

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(Book cover) 

Title: The Rom-Commers 
Author: Katherine Center, New York Times Bestselling author

(Book cover) Title: The Rom-Commers Author: Katherine Center, New York Times Bestselling author

(Book review) 

Tells and Rewrites

Charlie Yates and Emma Wheeler are as maddening as they are fun to discover.  The banter is entertaining.  The emotions are realistic.  And the chemistry is good, but I was unaware that it would be devoid of heat.  Admittedly, any heat would've endeared this to me a little more. 

(Book quote) 
'He wasโ€”and I realize this goes without sayingโ€”bigger in real life. 

'It was my firstโ€”and possibly lastโ€”time to ever lay eyes on Charlie Yates, and I confess, it hijacked my attention for a second. Because there he was.'
-- Emma Wheeler

One of the subplots here seems to be swallowing your pride and making things right.  I really felt conflicted with how things went with Emma and Sylvie, her sister, when she got a call in the middle of the night.  

There was a point in that conversation where I REALLY didn't like Emma and considered it far enough to walk away.  I'm not big on DNF'ing, so I continued on, but it did color the rest of the book in a negative hue for me.  Realistic or not, it wasn't what I needed at the moment. 

I read along with the audio book.  The narrator is Patti Murin.  She's new to me.  I enjoyed listening to her for the female roles, but I really wish there was a male counterpart, especially for Logan's and Charlie's dialogue.

Story:  3.5 stars
Narration:  3.5 stars 
Listening Speed:  1.5x

(Book review) Tells and Rewrites Charlie Yates and Emma Wheeler are as maddening as they are fun to discover. The banter is entertaining. The emotions are realistic. And the chemistry is good, but I was unaware that it would be devoid of heat. Admittedly, any heat would've endeared this to me a little more. (Book quote) 'He wasโ€”and I realize this goes without sayingโ€”bigger in real life. 'It was my firstโ€”and possibly lastโ€”time to ever lay eyes on Charlie Yates, and I confess, it hijacked my attention for a second. Because there he was.' -- Emma Wheeler One of the subplots here seems to be swallowing your pride and making things right. I really felt conflicted with how things went with Emma and Sylvie, her sister, when she got a call in the middle of the night. There was a point in that conversation where I REALLY didn't like Emma and considered it far enough to walk away. I'm not big on DNF'ing, so I continued on, but it did color the rest of the book in a negative hue for me. Realistic or not, it wasn't what I needed at the moment. I read along with the audio book. The narrator is Patti Murin. She's new to me. I enjoyed listening to her for the female roles, but I really wish there was a male counterpart, especially for Logan's and Charlie's dialogue. Story: 3.5 stars Narration: 3.5 stars Listening Speed: 1.5x

๐Ÿ”ถ๏ธREVIEW๐Ÿ”ถ๏ธ

The Rom-Commers by #KatherineCenter 3.5๐ŸŒŸ

I walk into most books blind & didn't know what to expect. There's plenty that I liked, but what I didn't like overshadowed a lot.

www.goodreads.com/review/show/...

๐ŸŒถ๐Ÿ“š๐Ÿ’™ #booksky #books #audiobook #bookreview #romancelandia #angstyread #dramedy

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