Note: Reviews are listed alphabetically by author’s last name.
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Trust Goes Both Ways
Aurora Crane (Third Time Lucky #2)
The previous book featuring these characters didn’t need a sequel, but I adore Lake and Grady so much that I wasn’t mad when I found out about one! I thought the switch from third- to first-person narration would be jarring, but I barely noticed past a few pages into the story. Getting such a peek into Lake’s head was an absolute delight, and Grady’s grumpiness becomes even more endearing. We also get appearances by many of the fantastic secondary characters who inhabit the shared world of Crane’s writing. Crane never throws their happily ever after into question; instead, the conflict comes from the real-life drama that always surrounds joining two lives together. I had a fabulous time reconnecting with these two men, and I highly recommend this duet to any fans of contemporary romance, especially the opposites-attract dynamic.
Fractured Pieces
Abrianna Denae & Leigh Kenzie (Crimson Bonds #9)
Though this installment drops us solidly in the “comfort” phase of the hurt/comfort roller coaster of this series, this doesn’t mean everything is peaceful for our heroes. Healing is not a straight line, and healing also comes in many forms, even those that don’t make sense or seem like a terrible idea (or both). While the authors tease us with a glimpse of whether some characters have undergone more development, for better or worse, they also drop in a new plot twist. The twist is that, like all the other medical professionals in this series, the psychiatrist who invites himself into these convoluted inner circles may be the most dangerous character in this series yet (and I already love him so much). As usual, when things are almost starting to look up, the authors also hit us with the most difficult cliffhanger of this epic series so far. A neat trick for those of us who have already come this far, but guaranteed to keep us on this wild ride a little longer.
Disclaimer: I received a digital copy of this book from the authors.
Chase Hooper Likes It Hot
Lisa Henry & Sarah Honey (Goose Run #3)
I love a good grumpy/sunshine relationship, but even more entertaining is the grumpy/bemused dynamic. The sparks and chemistry between Chase and Lee are intense from the beginning, and though they are never quite enemies, the mutual (emotional) frustration that drives them together is still entertaining. Then, of course, the real fun begins when those pesky feelings get involved. I’ve thoroughly enjoyed the found family that connects the books in this series, but Chase is intensely dedicated to the remaining member of his biological family, willing to give up much for his twin after the obvious trauma they’ve endured together. Lee’s loving family acts as a nice foil, but both Lee, Chase, and Chase’s brother undergo some satisfying character development to allow a chance at a happily ever after. At the end of this engaging story, Chase is still most grumpy, and Lee remains bemused, but they are definitely enjoying the heat together.