Simply Graceless: April 2021

Friday, April 30, 2021

Goodbye, April!

I feel like April started fifty-six years ago. Seriously. I can barely remember the beginning of this month let alone the fact that it was only March 30 days ago? Hell, no.

2021 Resolutions:

(1) Write [almost] every day

(2) Don't stop reading

(3) Complete something (e.g. a manuscript)

(4) Share love of books/writing
(5) Be kinder to myself

(1) Not talking about this...

(2) Books read this month: 48 (and there might be another one or two added before midnight). Yeah, still fucking crazy (believe me, I know). I can't tell if the willingness to slow down is from burn-out, or the instant-gratification slowly dying away. The last time I read this much was after I graduated from grad school and mentally-spiraling, trying to figure out what to do with my life (yay).

(3) Still waiting....

(4) Posts this month (including this one): 49 (and there might be another one or two added before midnight).

(5) ... nothing to say here ... I thought there would be...but there's not.

Anyone still holding onto their resolutions?

Any exciting May reads?
Anything I should check out?

#newyearsresolutions #goodbyeapril #hellomay #goodbye2020 #hello2021 #keeplearning #writeeveryday #dontstopreading #completesomething #getprofessional #books #bookstagram #bookphotography #ilovebooks

Thursday, April 29, 2021

Fair Trade (Bold Brew Book 7)

I haven't yet read a series quite like this one. All centered in the same fictional-universe, all interconnected manuscripts, all editions by different authors. The Bold Brew series is a ten book installment by ten different fabulous people. The seventh book is titled: "Fair Trade" (by #cateashwood)

["After working with the same partner for almost fifteen years, she ditched me for a cushy teaching job. And I thought things couldn’t get worse.

I was wrong.

Because walking into the ambulance station to see my new rookie is none other than the guy I’d picked up in a seedy bar would’ve been bad enough.

Except we hadn’t just hooked up.

Nope.

What we’d done went so far beyond an anonymous one-nighter.

And now I'm not sure what to do with myself, because being with Nick isn’t just against station rules.

It’s against mine.

But I can’t seem to stop, and what’s even more concerning…

I can’t make myself care.”]

I would just like to say that I totally saw the plot twist coming. I mean, if these two adorable idiots had taken their heads out of their asses and focused less on them (though, they were in love and fighting it--and the crazy-out-of-their-minds-with-lust thing), they would have possibly seen it too.

But these two. Wow. Their instant connection was just so strong and amazing. And then the wet blanket of the evening (the double one-night-stand) was the new work situation was just like so simple but so complicated (I can't word today, forgive me) and frankly, pretty damn funny.

Also, a heads up (if you didn't catch it in the blurb), this series is very kink-friendly/forward (in a very, very healthy and communicative way). The Bold Brew coffee shop (the centering aspect of the series) is a LGBT and kink-friendly hub of the community. Just FYI, if you're not into that kind of thing.

#cupofjoe #puppuccino #perfectmatcha #vanillasteamer #orderup #silkysmooth #fairtrade #extrawhip #cinnamonroll #doubleshot #boldbrew #boldbrewseries #books #queerbooks #queererotica #bodicerippers #bookstagram #bookphotography #ilovebooks

Wednesday, April 28, 2021

Silky Smooth (Bold Brew Book 6)

["Falling in love isn’t always smooth sailing.

College drop-out Nicolas Cannon has a secret he’s been hiding for all his adult life. A secret that has left him isolated and mostly friendless—until the day a very friendly parrot flies into his life. In his search to discover the parrot’s owner, Nicolas meets the handsome, enigmatic and much-older Alex Durant. But Nicolas has become fond of Alex’s pet Calamity, and the pair develop an unexpected friendship over their love of the bird.

Alex Durant is a man with money and power, but he’s also haunted by his past with an abusive ex. Calamity saved Alex’s sanity, and he’s surprised at how easily he shares her attention with Nicolas, a young artist who arrests Alex’s attention. As their friendship takes a brand-new, sexy turn, Nicolas discovers Alex also possesses something else he never expected: a shared love of silky underthings. But Nicolas isn’t out to his family, and that decision may test his fledgling relationship with Alex to the breaking point."]

I don't think either Nicolas nor Alex were mentioned in any previous books (at least by name--maybe my fleeting description that I didn't know to catch at the time), which makes the new characters and new relationship and new plots all the more exciting.

Also, had no clue that the "parrot" wasn't a euphemism until the second or third read through of the blurb (I was tired, what can I say?).

This book was sooooo cute and soooo fluffy and so felt like warm cocoa or a warm sweater during winter (which was a scene in the book actually).

The book did brush a bunch of hard topics (bullying, abuse, etc) but in a delicate and tasteful way (and totally realistic in the time of healing even in a new and healthy and beautiful relationship)

Tuesday, April 27, 2021

Order Up (Bold Brew Book 5)

I haven't yet read a series quite like this one. All centered in the same fictional-universe, all interconnected manuscripts, all editions by different authors. The Bold Brew series is a ten book installment by ten different fabulous people. The fifth book is titled: "Order Up" (by #wendyqualls).

["Barista Blake Hilliard has sexy secret and a fanbase eager to see more from him. The stars align when he discovers new customer Graham Aldersen is a dead ringer for his best friend--who had to leave town right before they’d planned a special livestream together. Graham isn’t so sure about subbing in for Blake’s regular partner, mask or not, but the chance to play with Blake’s popular online persona is too tempting to ignore. Going live on the internet is out of Graham’s comfort zone but Blake makes the experience eminently worth the risk.

When it becomes apparent that Blake’s partnership with his friend is more business than romantic, Graham finds himself wanting more. More sexy fun, more quiet chats, as much more of Blake as he can get. Blake doesn’t “do” boyfriends, though, and he certainly isn’t the type that straight-laced Graham ever thought he’d fall for. He’d put that life behind him when he bought the cute little house with the white picket fence and the cat--could the two sides of himself ever mix?

Will this mismatched duo be able to order up a happily ever after?"]

I think they described each other and their relationship together near the end of the book as impossible and puzzle pieces fitting together. And if this situation and them falling in love so fast isn't impossible puzzle pieces, then I don't know what is. But, when you know, you know (even if the first introduction is awkward and full of extra chocolate mochas and mistaken identities and sexual propositions).

Vanilla Steamer (Bold Brew Book 4)

I haven't yet read a series quite like this one. All centered in the same fictional-universe, all interconnected manuscripts, all editions by different authors. The Bold Brew series is a ten book installment by ten different fabulous people. The fourth book is titled: "Vanilla Steamer" (by #crystallacy)

["Our barista likes some spice in his vanilla—and it turns out the customer he’s crushing on might as well.

Vann enjoys his barista job. He enjoys it even more when Landon becomes an early morning regular. Vann can't resist flirting with the quiet doctor, even though he’s about eighty percent sure Landon is vanilla. That other twenty percent keeps him pushing at Landon’s buttons every time he comes in.

Things such as rope and impact play have never been on Landon’s radar. That changes after he develops an unrelenting crush on the barista who works at the local coffee shop. When he spends more time with Vann, Landon begins to realize his desires are anything but vanilla.

As the two explore Landon’s limits together, shadows of the past materialize to test them. Can Vann and Landon meet those challenges and strengthen their new relationship?"]

I just...no words. So sweet and fluffy and well, everything besides sweet and fluffy (and vanilla ;) ).

Monday, April 26, 2021

Perfect Matcha (Bold Brew Book 3)

I haven't yet read a series quite like this one. All centered in the same fictional-universe, all interconnected manuscripts, all editions by different authors. The Bold Brew series is a ten book installment by ten different fabulous people. The third book is titled: "Perfect Matcha" (by #erinmclellan)

["After years of focusing on his career, Theodore Punch is tired of being alone. But landing a good man isn’t easy. When Theo needs a date for an ex-boyfriend’s wedding, he knows just the solution—a matchmaker. And there’s no better matchmaker than his social butterfly best friend, Camden Ray.

There’s only one problem: Camden has been in love with Theo for half their lives but doesn’t have the guts to come clean. Camden will do anything to make Theo happy, even if it hurts, and he already has a match for Theo in mind—his boss, the handsome owner of the local adult novelty shop.

Now there’s another problem: Theo has zero experience with toys. Luckily, Camden is only a phone call away and more than happy to walk Theo through naughty gadget lessons. Spicy phone calls, a dash of role play, and a load of pesky emotions brew between them. It’s not the match either of them intended but could be the perfect solution to all their problems, if their friendship can survive the infusion of feelings."]

Friends to accidental friends-with-benefits to lovers. 35k words. Guaranteed happy ending (pun not fully intended).

Puppuccino (Blow Brew Book 2)

I haven't yet read a series quite like this one. All centered in the same fictional-universe, all interconnected manuscripts, all editions by different authors. The Bold Brew series is a ten book installment by ten different fabulous people. The second book is titled: "Puppuccino" (by #allisontemple)

["Charlie’s life is a dumpster fire. He’s got a broken heart, a job he can’t talk about in polite company, and a puppy slowly destroying his apartment. Desperate to save what’s left of his belongings--and self respect--he calls in reinforcements, but all it takes is one look at the silver-fox dog trainer and Charlie is panting for a little attention.

Mason understands dogs more than people. Give them strong leadership combined with gentle guidance, and they’ll eagerly obey. It doesn’t take long for Mason to realize Charlie is desperate for that same firm hand. Normally he would never get involved with a client, but gazing into Charlie’s puppy dog eyes, he longs to give them both a treat they won’t soon forget.

Under Mason’s careful charge, Charlie is empowered with control he never knew he had. Yet, as hungry as Mason is for more, he senses Charlie’s heart isn’t ready to open up. Will allowing Charlie to run free ensure his return? Or will his past keep him leashed and out of Mason's reach?"]

No doggos were harmed during this story. Just thought you should know.

Though a certain dick-ex should have been. Harmed, that is. I mean, of all of the horrible ex's. The way he treated Charlie during their most intimate and supposed-to-be vulnerable moments, was borderline abusive (or, actually, straightforward abusive). I really wish Charlie (or Mason) would have punched him (or kicked him in the balls); alas, that didn't happen.

But a lot of learning and trust-building and sexy-times did. ;)

Cup Of Joe (Bold Brew Book 1)

I haven't yet read a series quite like this one. All centered in the same fictional-universe, all interconnected manuscripts, all editions by different authors. The Bold Brew series is a ten book installment by ten different fabulous people. The first book is titled: "Cup Of Joe" (by #annabethalbert)

["Sometimes an ordinary Joe is all you need…

Newbie barista Levi Miles is having a bad day in the middle of a bad month. He’s trying to figure out post-graduation life, and a recent breakup hasn’t helped. The one bright spot? The charming blue-collar customer with the simple order and reassuring voice.

Electrician Joe Simmons can make anything light up—except his love life. As he gets older, he remains unsure about what he wants from a relationship. But an innocent flirtation with the fresh-faced barista is exactly what his ego needs.
Levi doesn’t need a boyfriend. Or a Daddy. But bantering with Joe feels so good, and when their tentative friendship takes a turn for the sexy, a summer fling seems fun. Exploring long-held desires brings them closer with each steamy night, and the idea of parting gets harder.

But Levi’s only in town temporarily, and the end of summer is approaching. Both are reluctant to disclose their feelings, but pushing past their fears may be the only way to keep this special thing going. Can they order up a happy ending before time runs out?"]

SOOO cute and SOO soft and SO just gaaaaahhh. D: I loved this novella. It was just like, take care of me and I'll take care of you (not even--okay, not entirely--in a sexy way). They match each other, despite their differences. And they made each other feel better about their insecurities. Just wow. You go, Annabeth, you go, girl.

The Two Princes

Not necessarily a book. But as a friend (and Levi/Cath from #Fangirl) said, audio books--and therefore podcasts in this case--are just as valid ways to "read" books. But holy fucking shirt-balls (#GoodPlace reference, sorry y'all), was "The Two Princes" worth the fact that I couldn't speed read through the prose paragraphs (like I accidentally do ~~sometimes~~ all the time).

I first discovered "The Two Princes" while flicking through fanart on IG. I saw this pic on @gibb.arts 's page and suddenly needed some queer princely love in my life. It took me months to get through all three seasons (it's hard to me to just sit and listen and focus on only one thing--multi-tasking master thanks to my mom and her nervous energy), but it was soooooo fucking worth it!

["When Prince Rupert sets out to break the mysterious curse that’s destroying his kingdom, he’s ready to face whatever dastardly villain or vile monster stands in his way. What he isn’t prepared for are the bewildering new emotions he feels when he meets the handsome Amir, a rival prince on a quest to save his own realm. Forced to team up, the two princes soon discover that the only thing more difficult than saving their kingdoms is following their hearts."]

"The Two Princes" was written by Kevin Christopher Snipes and directed by Mimi O'Donnell and provided by Gimlet media. Thee podcasts is filled with tooons of stars (broadway and movie and television--to many to hashtag all of them below, unfortunately).

Seriously! Go check it out. Like now, please. Now. You can thank me later.

#thetwoprinces #noahgalvin #arielstachel #kevinchristophersnipes #mimiodonnell #gimlet #gimletmedia #LGBT #LGBTpodcasts #podcasts #podstagram? #books #bookstagram #bookphotography #ilovebooks

Sunday, April 25, 2021

The Easy Way (The Way Home #1)

And finally, on May Archer's last (well her first, my last) series: The Way Home. Book number one is titled: "The Easy Way"

["Camden Seaver had it easy - a loving family, plenty of money, and the freedom to follow his dreams while his older brother, Sebastian, took charge of the family business. But when a tragic plane crash killed his parents, all the responsibilities he never wanted landed firmly on his shoulders. Now saddled with his crazy, grief-stricken brother and his dad’s multimillion dollar company, Cam doesn’t trust in dreams anymore. He’s forgotten what “easy” feels like.

FBI Agent Kendrick “Cort” Cortland learned the hard way that he couldn’t depend on anyone but himself. Before joining the FBI, the one constant in his life was his foster brother, Damon - and then Damon disappeared. Now, Cort is determined to find his brother and to bring down the man responsible for ruining Damon’s life, Sebastian Seaver. He’s got nothing left to lose.

When Cort’s investigation leads him to Seaver Tech...and Camden Seaver...what started as a quest for revenge and a one-night deception quickly turns into far more than either man bargained for. But how can either man trust in something that seems so easy? As long-held secrets are revealed, the attraction between Cam and Cort becomes combustible - an undeniable love that will either make or destroy them. Will Cam and Cort let their conflicting loyalties drive them apart? Or will they decide that sometimes love is the easy way?"]

Ha. The Easy Way. Nothing about this book, these characters, this relationship, was easy. Okay, well, the sexual attraction was.

These two were just like...opposites attract but worse (money, status, upbringing)...and so damn similar at the same time (same issues of trust and vulnerability). It was like...of course they fucking work. Damn horrible timing. But of course.

Though, the POV thing threw me off. Most of May Archer's books (most M/M books in general) are first person (because, take it from me, it's hard to tell who's talking and who's action-ing and who's in possession of the narrative atm when both protagonists are referred to as he/him constantly--and you can't use the dreaded fanfic "the blond" or you'll look super naive and inexperienced). But this book was third.

Which, worked...eventually. But I had a damn hard time getting into it (the narrative, the storyline, the characters). And unfortunately, I don't know if I'll be able to finish the series, as good as it is. But, in May's defense, this was her first published series, and she was learning (and boy oh boy did she learn).

#theeasyway #thelongway #therightway #thewayback #thewayhome #thewayhomeseries #mayarcher #books #queerbooks #queererotica #bodicerippers #bookstagram #bookphotography #ilovebooks

Saturday, April 24, 2021

On The Run (Whispering Key #2)

May Archer did a spin-off series from her #LoveInOLeary series titled: Whispering Key. Book Two: "On The Run"

["I was supposed to be partying with a bunch of celebrities in paradise this week, okay?

But then I made one teeny, tiny error in judgement before leaving New York, and suddenly the paparazzi expected me to give a command performance as “the other man” in their straight celebrity “outing” of the week.

Um, no, precious. So much no.

Instead, I did what any self-respecting, secret-keeping man would do in that situation: I cancelled my trip and fled New York to hide out in the last place anyone would look for me--a weird little Florida island where nothing exciting ever happened.

Or at least it didn’t… until I arrived.

Now I find myself shacked up with my fake boyfriend Beale Goodman, Whispering Key’s most adorable, most enormous, most virginal cinnamon roll—a guy who rescues feral cats, believes in soulmates, and talks about happiness like it’s free for the taking.

A guy who nearly convinces me, with every smile and kiss, that it is.

Stranger still? I find myself falling for the people on the island. Fitting in, instead of sticking out. Making, you know… friends. And for the first time ever, I think I’ve found something I want to run to, rather than from...

As long as I can keep my secrets from catching up with me."]

I just want to say that this book was soooo fuuuucking goooood. Not only did I relate to it on a What-The-Fuck-Is-My-Life-RN level, but on a soul-mate/destiny kind of level. Like, holy shit wow.

These two were just so fucking cute and good and understanding of each other's needs and wants and so god damned protective of each other.

And I might not have straight forward sobbed during this book. Right in the middle of the day. Right in the fucking living room (in front of people). So there's that.

Can't wait for "Off Key" (book #3) to come out next month. Like the angst build-up to that book is already soooo damn high. I can't.

#offplan #ontherun #offkey #whisperingkey #whisperingkeyseries #mayarcher #books #queerbooks #queererotica #bodicerippers #bookstagram #bookphotography #ilovebooks

Unicorns Forever (An O'Leary and Whispering Key Cross-Over).

A guilty-pleasure short story. An O'Leary and Whispering Key cross-over. That moment when Micah and Constantine finally meet Mason and Fenn. And a whole lot of glitter.

["What happens when Mason takes Fenn (from Whispering Key's Off Plan) home to meet Micah and Constantine (from O'Leary's The Secret)? Unicorns, that's what."]

I’ve been waiting for this since halfway through WK1, imagining how it would go down.

Soooo not how I pictured it.

But also, it was in a way.

Honestly, who knew a unicorn party would be so competitive. And steamy..

#unicornsforever #offplan #whisperingkey #whisperingkeyseries #thesecret #loveinoleary #loveinolearyseries #mayarcher #books #queerbooks #queererotica #bodicerippers #bookstagram #bookphotography #ilovebooks

Off Plan (Whispering Key #1)

May Archer did a spin-off series from her #LoveInOLeary series titled: Whispering Key. Book One: "Off Plan" (a spin-off from #TheSecret--Micah and Constantine--centering around, at least the first novel, Micah's little brother, Mason).

["I came to Whispering Key for a job. That was all. To show the world Mason Bloom could be more than a small-town doctor living a medium-sized life.

Private doctor on a swanky island with a posh resort? Check.

But from the moment I set foot on this island, nothing went according to plan.

I didn’t expect to find the resort falling apart.
I didn’t expect the people here to be so charming and crazy and welcoming and real.
I didn’t expect legends about shipwrecks and buried treasure.
And I definitely didn’t expect Fenn Reardon, the island’s incredibly attractive, incredibly infuriating, incredibly male resident tour guide, to become the one person I can’t live without.

Thirty-five’s a bit late for me to realize I'm not straight, though, right? And I have big dreams that won’t fit on Whispering Key, anyway—dreams that do not include tying myself to a tiny island stuck in the past or to a man who refuses to think about the future."]

Again, I took two days to read this. Three actually.

One: It was kinda really long, and I needed more time.

Two: I was sooo damned tired, and I needed a break.

Three: I was stalling so the “other shoe” wouldn’t hurt so bad when it dropped (spoiler: it still dropped, and it still hurt like hell).

Also like who knew a place could get crazier than O’Leary. But at the same time, it felt like a different kind of home.

And these two! God! Like enemies to lovers. But ones that enjoyed the fight and the transition a little too much (if that’s even possible).

So cute and so fun and so looking forward to the rest of the series.

#offplan #ontherun #offkey #whisperingkey #whisperingkeyseries #mayarcher #books #queerbooks #queererotica #bodicerippers #bookstagram #bookphotography #ilovebooks

Tuesday, April 20, 2021

The Light (Love In O'Leary #5.75)

Another author to obsess over = Another series to binge read. This time with May Archer and her Love In O'Leary series. The final book in this series (#5.75) is titled "The Light"

["When Fran Goode kissed me goodbye four years ago, he took my heart with him.

Sure, there were reasons we broke up, but they all seem silly now. And I know I should have moved on long ago, but the man's burned into my memory: his smile, his kiss, those long, unforgettable nights in his bed.

So instead, I find myself driving up a mountain, on the eve of an O'Leary blizzard, to Fran's remote cabin.

I need to see him again, to look into those gorgeous dark eyes, and to find out, for once and for all, whether the spark that flared between us has gone cold and dark... or has been burning like a beacon for us all along."]

Annnnnd, because I have so self-control (and needed to control something going on in my life--stupid fucking migraines--ironic, I know), I read these last three books out of order. Sue me.

Like the other story stories/novellas in this series far (not including the prequel), this book is O'Leary based but also not (more so than probably the others). It center's around a character introduced in the previous novella (#5.5) and Brian's almost-not-really-never-would-have-actually-happened love interest (at the time): Mark and Mark's HEA (Fran--the total mysterious mountain man who owns the town diner).

This was some #Notebook level shit. Almost. But the instant connection and the longing and the never see again in years and the old diner and maybe it's not like The Notebook at all, but that's how my brain pictured it, kay?

And then the cabin on top of the mountain during a picturesque winter wonderland with blueberry pancakes and puppies and love in the form of star metaphors? Fuck yes.

#thedate #thefall #thegift #thenote #thesecret #theworld #thefire #thenight #thecastle #thelight #loveinoleary #loveinolearyseries #mayarcher #books #queerbooks #queererotica #bodicerippers #bookstagram #bookphotography #ilovebooks

The Castle (Love In O'Leary #5.5)

Another author to obsess over = Another series to binge read. This time with May Archer and her Love In O'Leary series. The next book in this series (5.5) is titled "The Castle"

["Brian Carr believes in fairy tales—princes, castles, once upon a times, happily ever afters. He's been that way since we were kids, and no matter how many times it all goes wrong, Brian's never given up hope of finding his one true love.

It's beautiful. Adorable. Charming.

It's also annoying as hell, because I've spent decades standing on the sidelines while guy after guy crushed my best friend's heart, leaving me to pick up his pieces.

The truth is, for as long as Brian has dreamed of fairy tales... I have dreamed of Brian. But if he's waiting for some dude on a white horse to wander into O'Leary, there's no way he's gonna notice the guy who's been by his side all along."]

Annnnnd, because I have so self-control (and needed to control something going on in my life--stupid fucking migraines--ironic, I know), I read these last three books out of order. Sue me.

Like the other two novellas in this series thus far (excluding the prequel), this book is O'Leary based but also not. It center's around Brian (Jamie's ex from Book #4) and him finding his HEA (but technically him and his HEA aren't from O'Leary but the neighboring town of Camdon (probably misspelled, by bad).

O. M. G. YAS. Okay, besides the fact that this was just all around cute and fluffy and steamy and full of cute little fairy-tale-themed motifs.

It also had the wedding (Cal and Ash's) from the prequel of this series. Like the almost-final book in the series circles back to the couple who started this series and introduced us into the world of O'Leary. Like, yes (I'm all fucking for craft choices like these, y'all--makes my inner author go batshit).

The Night (Love In O'Leary #5)

Another author to obsess over = Another series to binge read. This time with May Archer and her Love In O'Leary series. The fifth book in this series is titled "The Night"

["One night in Vegas I gave him my heart… one day later, he broke it.

Look, I’ve never claimed to be a nice guy. I don’t do pretty words, I don’t give polite smiles, and I refuse to be sucked into the sappy bucket of sentimentality that is Christmas in small-town O’Leary. Smiling neighbors, overly decorated trees, a town parade, a Santa contest? Ho ho no. I do shifts as a firefighter, and I go home alone.

I fell into the trap once — that stupid night in Vegas — of believing there was more out there for me. I took a chance on a guy with magical green eyes and a gorgeous smile. The next day, Liam McKnight was gone. He took my heart with him… and left his wedding ring behind.

Except now my once-upon-a-time husband has reappeared with a kid in tow, and there are carols, lights, and cookies everywhere I turn. And worst of all? The spark between us burns brighter than ever, because whatever happened in Vegas definitely didn’t stay there. Liam came to town looking for an ending, but what’s building between us feels an awful lot like a beginning. Too bad it’s going to take more than a dozen interfering O’Learians to convince me to take a second chance on heartache, on love… on us.

Note: While The Night is very much Liam and Gideon's story, characters from past books do make an appearance, and you'll enjoy the book exponentially more if this isn't your first trip to O'Leary."]

Annnnnd, because I have so self-control (and needed to control something going on in my life--stupid fucking migraines--ironic, I know), I read these last three books out of order. Sue me.

This one was sooooo cute and soooo perfect and soooo magical. And actually kind of simple (not a lot of angst)--well, as simple as a whirl-wind marriage in Vegas can be, I guess.

But the magic, I mean, fUCK! The love magic, the small town magic, the Christmas magic (Santa magic). It was just all so happy and fluffy and Hallmark-y and I might have cried a few happy tears (tell no one).

The Fire (Love In O'Leary #4)

Another author to obsess over = Another series to binge read. This time with May Archer and her Love In O'Leary series. The fourth book in this series is titled "The Fire"

["Jamie
Parker Hoffstraeder is gorgeous, cocky, and totally irrational. He also broke my heart when he left town eleven years, four months, and twenty-eight days ago.

Not that I’m counting.

I don’t mind admitting it: I was young. I got burned. I learned my lesson.

But the guy swaggers back into O’Leary like he owns the damn place and suddenly I’m expected to welcome him to my town — to my life — like nothing’s changed?

Yeah, that I mind.

It’s only a matter of time until he’s gone again. And there’s no way I’ll give him a chance to take another piece of me when he goes.

Parker
Jameson Burke is the most arrogant, infuriating human on the planet. He’s also taller, broader, and impossibly hotter than he was before I left town.

But, whatever. It’s fine. I can handle it.

Coming back to O’Leary was supposed to be like coming home. I hadn’t realized that there’s no statute of limitations on how long your first love and former best friend is allowed to hate your guts, or how much bad luck can befall a person in a short time.

But, I can handle that, too… or at least pretend to.

When Jamie and I are thrown together in a blizzard, though, everything changes in the space of one single, scorching night. Suddenly, I’m dreaming of a future I can’t have, and he’s stuck in a past he can’t let go. It feels like we’re playing with fire...

And this time I’m the one who’s gonna burn."]

I'm not sure if this book was named because of the arson-thing that happened at Parker's bar/pub or the fire between these two characters because HOT DAMN (cue Bruno Mars).

Seriously. Hot. Fucking. Damn.

These two are idiots. They communicate...ish. I mean like, they communicate sexually and almost, almost, /almost/ through yelling (a foreplay for them in the very beginning). But like, the real shit? Their real feelings? Real apologies Real fears? That would be a No. Until they almost get there, then fuck it up again, then have their head's smacked (metaphorically) but their mutual friends until they /actually/ talk-talk. I sobbed a bit somewhere in the middle of...all that, just saying.

Also, now I want wings. Because, well, there's a certain Death Match about who has the best wings/sauce and... You'll just have to read it.

The World (Love In O'Leary #3.5)

Another author to obsess over = Another series to binge read. This time with May Archer and her Love In O'Leary series. The next book in this series (#3.5) is titled "The World"

["What do the hot, genius entrepreneur and I have in common?

Absolutely nothing.

Taika Parata may be rich as hell, but he’s a total jerk. He spends his days traveling the globe in the lap of luxury, while I dreamed of leaving my tiny hometown for a nomadic life and never got further than Boston.

But when fate throws us together, our preconceptions are challenged and suddenly we both have an entirely new perception of the world… and each other.

This short story was originally published in the second volume of the #Heart2Heart anthology. And much like Book #2.5 (The Note), it's almost not part of the O'Leary universe, but also most definitely is (in the sense that Ethan used to live in town, but moved to Boston for college).

Meet-Ugly meets "W'ere Going To Disney World!" meets Love At First Sight (meets Where the fuck can I get me one of these?).

The Secret (Love In O'Leary #3)

Another author to obsess over = Another series to binge read. This time with May Archer and her Love In O'Leary series. The this book in this series is titled "The Secret"

["Micah
Constantine Ross is a cocky, provoking little...yeah.
And I swear, I'd think that even if his family's business wasn't my biggest competition.
It's time someone taught the man a lesson or two about life.
At least that's what I tell myself when I offer him a job.
Call it my good deed for the year... maybe the century.

But now he's in my shop.
In my space.
In my every damn thought.
In. My. Bed.

And how the hell am I supposed to resist him?

Constantine
I'll be the first to admit I've royally screwed up, but what can I say?
I was a stupid teen who lost his dad and spiraled out of control.
Almost a decade later, I'm still trying to make amends.
The last thing I need is my family's arch-nemesis wading into my life like he's got all the answers.
Except... I really need money, and the arrogant jerk offered me a job.

I can deal with Micah's attitude.
My attraction to him? That's different.
He's my boss, not my boyfriend.
And he's way too old for me.
But God, he's gorgeous.
Dominant.
Compelling.

I don't want to want him...
But I can't turn away."]

Almost #RomeoAndJuliet types of hatred. Except its far from love at first sight. Then again, it's not really hate at first sight either. Lust at first sight, though? That's a thing, right? ;)

Also, you know that person/character that you just want to wrap up in a blanket and protect from the world? That's Con. Except, you'll also want to put duct tape over his (pretty) mouth, because it gets him in trouble more often than not. As does his soft heart and guilt-ridden anxiety.

It's a damn good thing that Micah is (hesitantly) willing to step up and take one for the team (by shoving Con against the wall and telling him to stop talking, among other things--but details are spoilers, my dears).

READ THIS.

The Note (Love In O'Leary #2.5)

Another author to obsess over = Another series to binge read. This time with May Archer and her Love In O'Leary series. The next book in this series (2.5) is titled "The Note"

["I was one of the lucky ones.

I found my soulmate back in high school, when my next door neighbor wrote me a love note that changed my life -- a love note that promised me "always."

But apparently "always" ain't all it's cracked up to be, because here I am, a mere eight years later, planning my soulmate's dream wedding -- the most romantic Valentine's Day wedding in O'Leary's history.

The only problem? He's not marrying me."]

Kind of like a queer version of #TheWeddingPlanner. But also not...

GAHHHH!!! This novella was soooo fucking cute! I mean, honestly! Like the angst and the pining! And then the fluff!! Holy. Shit.

It's almost not in the O'Leary universe, but also is (they're not from O'Leary, but the wedding is taking place there so...).

The Gift (Love In O'Leary #2)

Another author to obsess over = Another series to binge read. This time with May Archer and her Love In O'Leary series. The second book in this series is titled "The Gift"

["Daniel
I suck at relationships and don’t trust anyone, but there are reasons for that. For one thing, every person I’ve ever cared about has let me down. The only recent exception: O’Leary’s town veterinarian...my new best friend.

I came to O’Leary for a fresh start. To pare things down to essentials. To forget about the failures in my past. The last thing I need is complications, and most definitely
Not.
A.
Boyfriend.

Julian
I’ve lived in O’Leary my entire life and learned to fly under the radar a long time ago. I do what’s expected, say what’s expected, and keep to myself as much as possible. It’s a hell of a lot simpler spending my time working with animals than trying to interact with actual people. The one unlikely exception: the gorgeous guy who moved to a cabin just outside of town and somehow became my best friend.

But friendships are complicated, and one morning I find myself accidentally telling the whole town the biggest lie of my life. Which is how Daniel Michaelson, my very straight, very hot best friend becomes my fake boyfriend, even though he’s most definitely
Not.
My.
Lover."]

Julian and Daniel are the couple I distinctly remember from the prologue to the Love In O'Leary series. I remember thinking, well, fuck, they aren't subtle at all. This will be fun. And then the straight up confession about their...circumstances/situation/relationship in Book 1? And THEN learning that the confession was fake?! Yeah, there's no staying away from this couple.

And the fact that they CONSTANTLY take care of sick/injured animals together? That Daniel brings Julian wild animals to protect? I mean like, talk about awwwww.

At least these idiots figured out that they needed to communicate (almost too late, but at least they talked).

Simply Graceless

Friday, April 30, 2021

Goodbye, April!

Thursday, April 29, 2021

Fair Trade (Bold Brew Book 7)

Wednesday, April 28, 2021

Silky Smooth (Bold Brew Book 6)

Tuesday, April 27, 2021

Order Up (Bold Brew Book 5)

Vanilla Steamer (Bold Brew Book 4)

Monday, April 26, 2021

Perfect Matcha (Bold Brew Book 3)

Puppuccino (Blow Brew Book 2)

Cup Of Joe (Bold Brew Book 1)

The Two Princes

Sunday, April 25, 2021

The Easy Way (The Way Home #1)

Saturday, April 24, 2021

On The Run (Whispering Key #2)

Unicorns Forever (An O'Leary and Whispering Key Cross-Over).

Off Plan (Whispering Key #1)

Tuesday, April 20, 2021

The Light (Love In O'Leary #5.75)

The Castle (Love In O'Leary #5.5)

The Night (Love In O'Leary #5)

The Fire (Love In O'Leary #4)

The World (Love In O'Leary #3.5)

The Secret (Love In O'Leary #3)

The Note (Love In O'Leary #2.5)

The Gift (Love In O'Leary #2)

Virgin Skin (Ink Slingers #2)

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