Hello, 2026!

2026. No one jinx us this year. So just...let's continue to be kind. Nothing crazy. Just kindness and (good) memories. And more books. 

For this year's resolutions, I didn't change a thing. I liked my routines (for the most part) last year, and I want to focus on these same things this year.

2026 Resolutions:
     (1) Don't stop reading
            (b) Complete Monthly Reading Challenge(s)
     (2) Make memories
     (3) Share love of books/reading
     (4) Be kinder to myself

What are your 2026 resolutions?

#newyearsresolutions #hello2026 #dontstopreading #makememories #shareloveofbooks #shareloveofreading #bekindertomyself #books #bookstagram #bookphotography #ilovebooks

Goodbye, 2025!

2025 was a lot. I told 2025 (or asked...let's go with asked) to be kind. But it...was a lot. 2025 had more changes that I wasn't prepared for. Though, this year wasn't as harsh or as dramatic or as unkind to me. It was busy as hell, and there were a lot of 'fun' turns (unexpected, unexpected turns--some were actually fun and some where stressful). 

Positives: Visited my sister and brother-in-law and dog-in-law three times; once in January and once in December with the whole family, and once in October for the Jonas Brothers concert. Saw the Jonas Brothers twice, once with my sister in Tampa and once by myself in Pittsburgh. Cleaned my Bubba's a lot. Babysat a few times. One of my best friends had the cutest, naughtiest little nugget of a baby boy. Got promoted to Children's Programing Coordinated in January; got promoted to Assistant Children's Manager in August; got promoted to Book Fair Manager in October. Several raises, which also meant/means rebuilding up my savings account. My cousin got married. My best friend turned 30. Lots of dinners and hang out with both of my best friends throughout the year. Saw Peter Pan the musical. Saw Wicked: For Good. My sister was in town this summer. Lots of day naps, lots of hot cocoa, looots of books. 

Negatives: My favorite coworker slash mentor retired, very very last minute. Work got really, really stressful for a while. Got a new manager/mentor, and she quit a few weeks later, making work even more stressful. Got promoted again (yay), but there wasn't a ton of transparency through the whole process of losing managers and becoming one myself. Tons of don't-want-to-leave-the-house days. Nothing in terms of eating better or working out. Quite a lot of overstimulation and anxiety. Did I mention the stress? The summer was ungodly hot. The winter is already proving to be ungodly cold. Seriously fucked up sleep-schedules. 

2025 Resolutions:
     (1) Don't stop reading
            (b) Complete Monthly Reading Challenge(s)
     (2) Make memories
     (3) Share love of books/reading
     (4) Be kinder to myself

(1) Book's Read This Year: 560 (might get one more in there before midnight though).

    (b) Monthly Reading Challenge(s). A-Z Challenges. ARCs. Beat The Backlog.

(2) 2025 Memories: See above Positive/Negatives as well as below. Though there felt like there was more positives than negatives this year. 

(3) Posts this year (including this one & the next): 437.

(4) I said this year might be the year of physical health...that didn't happen. Though my mental health was steady. Of course there were bad moments, bad days, bad weeks. But these were significantly shorter and lighter than last year. I still had moments of imposter syndrome and feelings of staleness and tiny bits of mental breakdown overall depression/anxiety 'fun' times. I'd like to say this year was a lot brighter and sunshiny-er. Continuing to heal and be kind to myself, even if that last part continues to be a work in progress, a constant work in progress. I'm not perfect and outside stressors aren't helpful, but I'm working on it, on myself. I'm strong, and I'm a badass. Even when it feels like I'm a hot mess. 

Anyone still holding onto their resolutions from last year?
What are your resolutions for this year?

Any existing 2026 reads?
Anything I should check out?

#newyearsresolutions #goodbye2025 #hello2026 #dontstopreading #makememories #shareloveofbooks #shareloveofreading #bekindertomyself #books #bookstagram #bookphotography #ilovebooks

Goodbye, December!

December? Did you come? Were you here? Because I barely remember you.

2025 Resolutions:
     (1) Don't stop reading
            (b) Complete Monthly Reading Challenge(s)
     (2) Make memories
     (3) Share love of books/reading
     (4) Be kinder to myself

(1) Book's Read This Month: 93 (loooots of short stories, lots of binging).

    (b) Monthly Reading Challenge(s): Shape = Moose. Got some A-Z stuff recorded. Some ARCs. Got a some of Beat The Backlog done.

(2) December Memories: Lots of work stress all culminating in me sleeping for years. My grandma's birthday. SOO much reading, quite a lot of binge-watching too. We visited my sister and brother-in-law for the holiday's though. Florida doesn't exactly scream Christmas, but it was warm and sunny, and we were all together. Lots of dog-fur, tons of reminiscing. Some seriously nice time off to refresh and reset. 

(3) Posts this month (including this one & the next three): 50.

(4) Quite possibly too much family time; if you know, you know. I need a vacation from my vacation and/or some serious solo time. Really don't love the winter: added depression, too cold to get out of bed, dark far too early. But so far, I don't think it's been too too bad. Besides being fucking exhausted mentally and physically, this month hasn't sucked. 

Anyone still holding onto their resolutions?

Any exciting January reads? Any existing 2026 reads?
Anything I should check out?

#newyearsresolutions #goodbyedecember #hellojanuary #hello2025 #goodbye2025 #hello2026 #dontstopreading #makememories #shareloveofbooks #shareloveofreading #bekindertomyself #books #bookstagram #bookphotography #ilovebooks

Blue Balling the Demon (Hotter Than Hell #5)

Here's Callie Colby's "Blue Balling the Demon." It's the fifth book in her Hotter Than Hell series.

["Valerius is the Underworld’s greatest an incubus bored to death by pleasure.

For Valerius, the act of seduction is tedious, the mechanics are messy, and the payoff is never worth the effort. He’s starving, wasting away in the mortal realm because he’d rather wither than endure another night of meaningless friction. He needs sustenance, but he needs it refined. He needs pure energy.

Then he meets Sir Kaelen of the Silver Order.

Kaelen is six-foot-four of holy muscle, righteous fury, and a vow of celibacy so strictly enforced it has turned him into a walking nuclear reactor of repressed lust. To Valerius, the Paladin doesn’t smell like a man; he smells like an all-you-can-eat buffet of white-knuckled restraint.

The arrangement is simple. Valerius uses his demonic senses to help Kaelen hunt the monsters plaguing the countryside. In exchange, Valerius gets to hover in Kaelen’s shadow, feeding off the delicious, intoxicating heat radiating from the knight’s pent-up frustration.

No touching. No seduction. Just pure, agonizing proximity.

It’s the perfect diet—until the nights get colder, the bedrolls get closer, and Valerius realizes that Kaelen’s resolve is starting to crack. The Paladin is looking at him not like a monster to be tolerated, but a sin to be committed. And for the first time in centuries, Valerius isn’t bored. He’s ravenous.

When the holiest man alive finally decides to break his vows, Valerius learns that the only thing more dangerous than a demon’s hunger... is a saint’s loss of control."]

So far, this is the first book in the series that isn't set in the twenty-first century. Which is intriguing as hell.

As is Valerius and Kaelen's arrangement. I couldn't help but constantly think: is Valerius feeding so easily off of Kaelen's righteous vow and pent-up frustration OR is Valerius feeding so easily off of Kaelen because they're fated? 

Valerius was not your conventional incubus, just as Kaelen was not your conventional paladin. They both had thoughts, feelings, desires, dreams that made them uniquely their own, uniquely similar to each other, and uniquely the opposite of what their brethren would accept. But together, they proved to be stronger and more powerful than their brethren. And (a lot) more philosophical (soooo many deep as fuck thoughts).

#summoningmrwrong #summoningmrwrongormrright #hisinfernalpurr #exorciseme #devilwearsnada #blueballingthedemon #calliecolby #hotterthanhell #hotterthanhellseries #books #queerbooks #queererotica #bodicerippers #bookstagram #bookphotography #ilovebooks

Devil Wears Nada (Hotter Than Hell #4)

Here's Callie Colby's "Devil Wears Nada." It's the fourth book in her Hotter Than Hell series.

["He fell out of the sky naked, smug, and gorgeous enough to stop time—or at least traffic.

Naturally, I assumed he was some half-feral fashion influencer having a breakdown. LA’s full of them.

Turns out he’s not just vain—he’s literally Vanity. A demon prince, banished to Earth without his powers, his wardrobe, or any sense of personal boundaries.

He refuses to wear polyester.

He flirts like it’s a competitive sport.

And every time he gets turned on, my studio mirrors shatter like they’ve seen too much.

Now I’ve got a narcissistic hellspawn draped in my finest silks, strutting around my workroom like it’s his throne room, and whispering things that make me want to sin all over the cutting table.

I should throw him out.

Instead, I’m dressing him up just to see how fast I can peel him back down again."]

Watching Hell's embodiment of vanity and narcissism fall in love with someone that isn't himself? Far more adorable than imagined. Plus all of the mirrors and reflective surfaces exploding when someone (*cough* Lucas *cough*) makes him feel Big Feelings? Such the opposite of what anyone would assume Vanity would act, adding to the cute factor.

Then there's Lucas, little human Lucas who managers to make one of hell's princes fall impossibly fast and impossibly deep. A demon who is supposed to be selfish on all of the levels, cares so much, using his very limited powers to help Lucas.

#summoningmrwrong #summoningmrwrongormrright #hisinfernalpurr #exorciseme #devilwearsnada #blueballingthedemon #calliecolby #hotterthanhell #hotterthanhellseries #books #queerbooks #queererotica #bodicerippers #bookstagram #bookphotography #ilovebooks

Love is Magic: an MM Holiday Gift Anthology

Here's the Love is Magic MM Holiday Gift Anthology (All profits will benefit SantaCan, a non-profit organization that provides holiday gifts to foster children in the Los Angeles area!).

["Love Is Magic!

Fifteen authors, fifteen chances to fall in love this holiday season…

In this enchanting, out-of-this-world MM paranormal and urban fantasy collection, you’ll find unexpected demons, gallant vampires, pining alphas, shifty ravens, magic galore, and so much more, with a satisfying happy ending to every love story."]

I haven't read the entirety of either anthology, instead choosing to focus on the authors I've read in the past; when I have time (ha!), I hope to go back and read the rest of the short stories from these anthologies! I read 70% of this book, including: "The Mistaken Courting Gift," "A Very Bangers & Mash Christmas," "Meadow," "Up In the Air," "When Fate Gives You a Demon," and "Bite of Opportunity."

Favorite Story: "Meadow"

Favorite Relationship: Theo and Rowan from "The Mistaken Courting Gift" (though I'm a suuucker for the Kincaid Pack series)

I Want More Of: Zeke and Milo from "When Fate Gives You a Demon

#loveismagic #anmmholidaygiftanthology #loveismagicanmmholidaygiftanthology #books #queerbooks #queererotica #bodicerippers #bookstagram #bookphotography #ilovebooks

Barbarian (Jericho's Boys #3)

Here's Only James's "Barbarian." It's the third book in her Jericho's Boys series (which is one of the two spin-off series from her Necessary Evils series--aka the Mulvaney Boys series (which is still some of the best books in the genre I ever read)).

["Nico Michaels pretends to be carefree, avoiding anything serious, especially relationships; his chaotic past has taught him that love only complicates things. He’s content with one-night stands and his close-knit group of friends, including his roommate, Malachi Mizrahi.

Neurodivergent and gender-fluid, Malachi wakes up each morning with a whole new personality, but one thing remains his love for Nico. They clicked perfectly from day one, sharing a love of everything from anime to nature documentaries. They even share a bed. Platonically, of course.

One night, the lines blur when they share a kiss, but before things can go further, a desperate call from one of Mal’s dance students throws them into a missing person’s case that leaves them with more questions than answers. To complicate matters, Mal reveals he’s been quietly orchestrating Nico’s whole life without him even noticing. Nico is shaken to his core, his perception of their relationship shattered.

As they navigate the perilous world of a vicious Chinese triad, their bond deepens, and Nico begins to see that Malachi is not only the perfect friend, but the perfect man to fulfill all his needs. Together, they must face their past and survive their present if they want any chance of a happy ending in their future."]

First off, Mal showed so much more restraint than any of the Mulvaneys (or Jericho's Boys). They nevvver would have waited as patiently as Mal did. Granted, they were pretty much married from day one, but Nico didn't know that.

Oh Nico, I'd say he needs protected at all costs, but he's also a fucking brat. Mal is perfect for him. Just like Nico is perfect for Mal. Their needs align, their crazies match, their souls sync. 

Even if they traumatized Shilo.

Also: looove all of the Freckles love, all of the Jericho love. They ARE the boys' dads. End of discussion. Even if they also traumatized Shilo (and Felix)...Ever was fascinated (god, I love Ever).

Trigger Warnings: references to past child sexual abuse and parental alcohol abuse, the on-page physical assault of a MC, violence, murder, and more. 

#paladin #rogue #barbarian #ranger #jerichosboys #jerichosboysseries #necessaryevils #necessaryevilsseries #onleyjames #books #queerbooks #queererotica #bodicerippers #bookstagram #bookphotography #ilovebooks

The Raven: The Classic Poem

I saw this book at work the other day, and I immediately bought it. No regrets here. "The Raven" is a classic poem by Edgar Allan Poe. This version is illustrated by Chloe Bristol.

[""The Raven" A narrative poem by Edgar Allan Poe. Published originally in January 1845, the poem has a musical quality with stylized language and a supernatural atmosphere. It speaks of a mysterious talking raven's visit to a distraught lover, depicting the man's slow fall into madness. The lover is lamenting the loss of his love, Lenore. Sitting on a bust of "Pallas", the raven seems to have a purpose of further instigating his distress with its constant repetition of the word "Nevermore". This poem makes good use of a number of folk and classical references."]

The narrator looked like Poe, which was both realistic in Poe's inspiration for the poem, as well as highly entertaining. The illustrations were beautiful and full of shades of red, beige, and black. It was dark, but it somehow was filled with all of that Victorian beauty and history.

I NEED more of these classic stories reimagined into children's picture books. Liken now.

#theraven #theraventheclassicpoem #edgarallanpoe #chloebristol #books #childrensbooks #childrenspicturebooks #picturebooks #bookstagram #bookphotography #ilovebooks

Composed (The Art of Love #7)

Here's Merry Farmer's "Composed." It's the sevent novel in her new series, The Art of Love.

["These childhood friends are the last to realize they’re perfect for each other…

Nally Hawthorne has always been a musical prodigy, but when the soundtrack he’s scored for a hit movie rockets him into the spotlight, he has no idea how to handle fame. It’s only natural for him to turn to his best mate since forever and social media influencer, Jude. The two of them have always been two peas in a pod, but now that they’re adults, their relationship is starting to become more…adult.

Jude Cranleigh has no problem handling a vast social media career, but when it comes to managing his growing feelings for his best friend, he’s at a loss. Especially since he’s been burned in the past by making a friend into a lover. He isn’t willing to risk losing Nally by making the same mistake twice…but his feelings for Nally are bigger than he can control.

But everything changes when an obsessive fan starts stalking Nally. Jude wants to protect Nally, but will his efforts push them into each other’s arms at last or split them apart?"]

These two are...*sigh*. They needed a wack upside the head. And then a forced conversation about their feelings and the reality of loving your best friend (in the romantic way they both soooo clearly loved each other). Of course Mama Hawthorne saw it as it was happening. 

Not sure if Nally's stalking helped them progress their relationship or if he added more drama to the situation. It certainly pushed them together, but it also almost tore them apart. 

These two fell in love easily, they've been in love with each other for years. But dealing with their feelings, making these feelings go from inside their hearts to the outside world, wasn't as smooth or as easy as anticipated. From anyone. But they eventually figured it out, after they stopped trying so damn hard and just let their hearts lead.

Up next, Ryan's book. The man who just said he sucked at relationships but gave some seriously mature advise to baby bro Nally.

Trigger Warnings: stalking, violence from said stalker, and more.

#thrown #painted #decorated #forged #blown #sugared #composed #designed #theartoflove #theartofloveseries #merryfarmer #books #queerbooks #queererotica #bodicerippers #bookstagram #bookphotography #ilovebooks

Heated Rivalry: TV Series

Rachel Reid's "Heated Rivalry" was one of my first MM books. I read it back in 2017/2018 near the time it came out. It's always been a favorite. It's a staff pick of mine at the bookstore I work at. 

When it was announced that they were making it into a TV series, I honestly expected it to be years before it came out. Instead, they filmed in 36 days on a tiny-ass budget and gave it to us in less than 6 months. I reread the first two books in the series, and I waited until it was all available to stream to watch it (and then a few more days because no one needs to watch this with their parents while on a family vacation). 

I am soooo incredibly proud that this series became so popular, that queer relationships are being talked about, that Rachel's book(s) is gaining a whole new crowd. I'm also sooo incredibly excited that all of these people are looking into other MM hockey books, because some of my favorite series/authors are MM hockey. It's...breathtaking. And it's a step towards more of these books/authors getting published through mainstream publishing (which means a larger audience and more money for the authors). 

I'll write below my play-by-play reactions below. Enjoy (I know I did).
*Idiots are already in love.
*Of course Shane wears socks during sex
*Enemies to lovers hook ups obviously means softness and sweetness.
*Major pro: plot point(s) brought over from page to screen: the writers really hit on their different stressors Shane and Ilya were under
*Enemies to lovers hook ups also obviously means soft smiles and teasing quips and inside jokes and texting nicknames
*Page to Screen change I loved: more Scott Hunter…and the fact that Scott Hunter seemed to know/understand our complicated boys
*Can confirm I’m incredibly fucking soft for this Ilya, too.
*Shane: I also cried when Ilya won the cup.
*Wasn’t necessarily here for Scott and Kip, liked their book plenty enough, but these two idiots still made me irrationally giddy
*Girl
*Shane with a baby would have made Ilya’s ovaries explode.
*Shane’s freckles.
*Ilya’s moles.
*Ilya’s Russian-vent made me cry.
*Connor and Hudson: I also carried when Scott and Kip kissed on the ice. Sobbed actually.
*Stupid Canadian wolf bird
*I tried really hard not to cry when Ilya was telling Shane about his mom. Might not have succeeded.
*Did cry when Shane and his mom talked
*Ending credits: fuck me, soft boys in love mess me up.
*Now trying not to cry because its over.

Overall thoughts:
*Me = giggling nonstop. I probably looked (slightly) deranged while watching this with how much I was smiling and smirking and fan-girl-leg-kicking.
*Connor and Hudson were perfect as Ilya and Shane. Perfect.
*I said “my sweet baby Shane” far too many times to be healthy.

I'll eventually reread the rest of the series. Hopefully we'll have season two within the next two years (one can only hope, but we all know that the more popular something becomes, the longer we have to wait).

Here's to finding your cottage, your stupid Canadian wolf bird, your not-so-rival. 

#heatedrivalry #thelonggame #rachelreid #connorstorrie #hudsonwilliams #gamechanger #toughguy #commongoal #rolemodel #gamechangerseries #books #queerbooks #queererotica #bodicerippers #pagetoscreen #booksmadeintomovies #booksmadeintoTV #bookstagram #bookphotography #ilovebooks

Villains & Vigilantes: A Necessary Evils Anthology

FINALLY got around to reading the Halloween fun/murder that it "Villains & Vigilantes: A Necessary Evils Anthology." All by fabulous Onley James. It was originally published as a 13-day serial through Onley's newsletter leading up to Halloween. 

["Trick. Treat. Take out the trash.

Welcome to the most unhinged Mulvaney party yet. The costumes are couture, the littles are under lock and key, and the ultimate villain is about to get exactly what she deserves.

What starts as a Halloween gala turns into a house-wide hunt as the Mulvaneys, Jericho’s Boys, and the men of Elite close ranks to end a monster’s reign for good. One brother takes a hit but refuses to stay down. Asa proves why psychopaths deliver the sweetest revenge. Mac and Archer demonstrate exactly what they teach at the Watch. Jericho, Atticus, Lucas, and August bond over a little creative torture. And in the heart of Aiden’s workshop, a righteous invention guarantees permanent justice.

Between traps, taunts, and vigilante vows, this anthology serves dark humor, feral family, and heat—plus bonus stories from the night before the party and an exclusive masked hook-up that lights the fuse for a future Jericho’s Boys couple. Cameos abound, couples get spooky and spicy, and the Mulvaney littles prove the apple doesn’t fall far from the tree."]

Another set of short stories that takes place over the course of a day (well a day and a half). I’m obsessed. From the kiddos performing an exorcism in the name of K-Pop Demon Hunter true love to so much filthy spice to family murder time. All of the family, og, partners, big kids, Elite. 

Plus some meet-cutes. Which, by the way, WHEN are we getting all of the official stories and HEAs of these Jericho’s boys?!?! Off to finally read Nico’s and Mal’s (then maybe The Watch #2).

Trigger Warnings: Yeah, there's quick a few. The list is rather extensive. If you can imagine it, it's probably rather likely included somewhere in this series. 

#unhinged #psycho #moonstruck #damaged #headcase #madman #lunatic #maniac #necessaryevils #necessaryevilsseries #jerichosboys #jerichosboysseries #thewatch #thewatchseries #familyandfelonies #familyandfeloniesanecessaryevilsanthology #villainsandvigilantes #villainsandvigilantesanecessaryevilsanthology #murderandmistletoe #murderandmistletoeanecessaryevilsanthology #onleyjames #books #queerbooks #queererotica #bodicerippers #bookstagram #bookphotography #ilovebooks

Murder & Mistletoe: A Necessary Evils Anthology

More Christmas fun/murder with "Murder & Mistletoe: A Necessary Evils Anthology." All by fabulous Onley James. The anthology is not published yet, but I've read all of the stories/series Onley shared via her email subscription group the last 12 days.

["Welcome to the most chaotic Mulvaney Christmas yet. The roads are iced over, the mansion is packed with littles, and one very overdue baby has decided that now is their time to shine.

When Cricket’s water breaks in the middle of a snowstorm, she skips the ambulance and drives herself straight to the Mulvaney Mansion where her midwife is supposed to meet her. The problem? The storm has other ideas.

As family members fight the weather to make it home, everything spirals beautifully out of control. Mac and Archer are trapped in a Christmas village nightmare. Adam and Noah are up to their usual questionable-but-consensual shenanigans. Arlo and Dimitri are stranded roadside. Atticus and Jericho are stuck in a car. The core four are enjoying some rare alone time. And the littles are warm, fed, and absolutely thriving under Thomas and Aiden’s supervision.

Then the midwife doesn’t show.

What follows is a full-blown holiday free-for-all: Atticus steps in to deliver the baby, the feelings faction dances Cricket through labor, Archer teaches the kids how to gamble using cookies, and the Mulvaney household does what it does best: closes ranks and handles the chaos together.

Murder & Mistletoe delivers snowbound mayhem, feral found family, soft moments, filthy humor, and love in all its unhinged forms. Cameos abound, couples steal moments wherever they can, and the next generation proves they were absolutely raised in this madness on purpose."]

I loved how these short stories all took place in one evening, in just a few short hours. Most of them were simultaneous. It was clever and cute and totally perfect. It was all also totally Mulvaney. Lots of spice, lots of found family, lots of love. Not nearly as much murder and mayhem as I had anticipated.

I gotta say, I think in this set of stories, I do have a favorite or two. Story. Favorite couple? It still constantly changes. Each new story, each new fact, each new fan art. We get to know them more and more, and unlike a certain author (she-who-must-not-be-named), getting all of this new information makes these character feel more real. We get to watch them grow up and continue to grow together as their families grow and their children grow up. 

I definitely missed a few updates, because I'm not up-to-date on the Jericho's Boys series or The Watch series...or the Halloween serial. But the minor and temporary confusion was worth it. Especially after that final section (family, love, safety, a real childhood, breaking generational trauma). 

There might be more when this gets officially published, but for now, I'm more than pleased. Merry (Mulvaney...or non-Mulvaney...you do you) Christmas. 

Trigger Warnings: A few references but nothing major actually...for once. 

#unhinged #psycho #moonstruck #damaged #headcase #madman #lunatic #maniac #necessaryevils #necessaryevilsseries #jerichosboys #jerichosboysseries #thewatch #thewatchseries #familyandfelonies #familyandfeloniesanecessaryevilsanthology #villainsandvigilantes #villainsandvigilantesanecessaryevilsanthology #murderandmistletoe #murderandmistletoeanecessaryevilsanthology #onleyjames #books #queerbooks #queererotica #bodicerippers #bookstagram #bookphotography #ilovebooks

Winter Blues

And here's Nicole Dykes's "Winter Blues." She added it to the end of her Oakley's Crew holiday novella ("Deck the Halls"). This short story was originally published in Snowed In: A MM Romance Charity Anthology.

["Simon is the little brother to Zane Sharpe and Hunter has been Zane’s best friend for years. It’s winter break at college and Simon needs a ride home, but with a blizzard headed their way Hunter is now the only option if Simon wants to make it home for Christmas. These two end up only about half way home and end up spending the night together where they realize there is more than just underlying tension between them."]

Another perfectly cozy Christmas story. Short, sweet, spicy. Forced proximity, brother’s best friend, enemies-to-lovers (one-sided), and grump/sunshine.

Plus some heartfelt moments and snowed-in moments and honest moment and hot chocolate. 

I would have read an entire novella/novel of these two.

#winterblues #snowedin #mmromancecharityanthology #snowedinmmromancecharityanthology #deckthehalls #oakleyscrew #oakleyscrewseries #nicoledykes #books #queerbooks #queererotica #bodicerippers #bookstagram #bookphotography #ilovebooks

Deck The Halls (Oakley's Crew)

Here's Nicole Dykes's "Deck the Halls." It's an Oakley's Crew holiday novella.

["It’s time for the annual Oakley’s Crew holiday party!Join Travis and Oakley and their crew to celebrate the holidays with lots of love, laughter, and an all-around good time!

The celebration will be at Travis and Oakley’s, complete with Santa, presents, firepits, and a snowy night!

And you’re invited to join in on all the fun!"]

SUCH a cute little Christmas treat. It had so many HEAs from previous couples, plus some hints at future ones. Though some of the hints had overlapping men so...we'll see what happens there. ;)

Either way, what a cute and fun way to celebrate Christmas (them and me). Togetherness, presents, spicy-times, fluffy moments, holiday magic.

#simplicity #balance #deckthehalls #oakleyscrew #oakleyscrewseries #kensleypanthers #kensleypantersseries #nicoledykes #books #queerbooks #queererotica #bodicerippers #bookstagram #bookphotography #ilovebooks

A Corpse for Christmas (the Naughty List)

Here's Ki Brightly and MD Gregory's "A Corpse for Christmas." It's part of the multi-author series The Naughty List.

["Who Doesn’t Want Their Enemies Destroyed For Christmas?

A Second Chance for the Accidental Serial Killer
Eddison “Eddie” Wheelwright isn’t a bad guy, he’s just a chronic klutz. He escaped his abusive father by going across the country for college. To make his exit, he was forced to leave behind a good friend, Tyler. Eddie told himself Tyler would be fine. Years later, Eddie runs into him again. He has been hurt and is on the verge of homelessness. Tyler has not been fine. Guilt eats at Eddie, and he can’t ignore Tyler’s plight, especially since it’s almost Christmas.

Hope for the Homeless Man
Tyler Morrow hates a lot of things. His ex-stepfather, who gave him the scars on his face. Eddie, who left him behind to be tortured. When their lives collide on one of the worst days of Tyler’s life, Tyler decides to ignore Eddie. The plan fails when Eddie murders a man who exploited Tyler. He can’t help but give Eddie another chance to be part of his life. And a brand-new shot to earn space in his heart.

The List
Tyler has a list of men who caused him pain. Only Eddie has no clue what the list is for, so he sets out trying to solve the riddle. Through a series of unfortunate accidents, he leaves most of the men dead. Tyler thinks Eddie is murdering these awful men to protect him. What will happen when he learns the truth? Will he forgive Eddie for taking credit for something he didn’t do on purpose? Or will this be a death blow for their new relationship?"]

Oh Eddie, clumsy, klutzy, kind-hearted Eddie. He tried sooo hard and somehow failed and excelled at the same time. Good thing Tyler didn't care, not one bit. Because the end goal was the same: Eddie protected Tyler and made the world safer for him.

They were separated by time and fear for years, but the moment they were back together, the same old protective rightness came right back. Granted, it wasn't easy, with all of their past traumas, but it brought them closer together. 

One of these days, I'm going to read the entire New Gothenburg universe...one of these days.

Trigger Warnings: death, mayhem, mentions of past child abuse, past domestic abuse, on-page confrontation with a former abuser, past exploitation, past mentions of sex work, facial scar as a result of childhood trauma, and more.

#acorpseforchristmas #kibrightly #mdgregory #mistletoemischiefandmurder #christmasmafaiprince #abloodymerrychristmas #stalkingaroundthechristmastree #murderunderthemistletoe #thesilentnightstalker #deckthehallswithbloodanddesire #thenaughtylist #thenaughtylistseries #books #queerbooks #queererotica #bodicerippers #bookstagram #bookphotography #ilovebooks

How To Bite Your Neighbor and Win a Wager (Guides to Dating Vampires #1)

I've had this series on my TBR for a while now... Here's DN Bryn's "How To Bite Your Neighbor and Win a Wager." It's the first novel in the Guides to Dating Vampires series.

[""I WANT YOU TO BITE ME."

Vincent Barnes has suffered four years as a vampire, and they’ve been the most miserable years of his pathetic life. Too poor for black market blood, he feeds from sleeping humans to survive. He tries to never intrude on the same prey twice, but after a single delicious taste of a long-lost childhood neighbor, he can’t help returning for seconds.

Wesley Garcia has been waking up with fang marks. Lucky for him, he needs a vampire—to use as bait. He’s certain Vitalis-Barron Pharmaceutical killed his mother, but to gain access to their covert research labs, he has to bring them a bloodsucker for their experiments.

Step one, a dramatic offer: Stay, and you can bite me.

Vincent leaps at the chance to gobble Wesley up.

Wes’s plan is perfect. He’ll befriend the vampire, then trick him into coming to the lab. No fighting, no fuss. But Vincent is more than Wesley has bargained for: sweet and shy, with intoxicating fangs that awaken new desires in Wes. As the two bond, Vincent believes he might have finally found someone worth putting his trust in... and Wes fears neither of them will survive the betrayal he has planned."]

I loved this book..in concept. That doesn't sound highly complimentary. It wasn't a bad book. It was a great book, but there were some character notes that I didn't anticipate. They threw me, and I'm not sure I recovered. I'm not sure if they were a huge twist or if I perceived too much and the reality pushed me out of the universe. 

I loved the trust and the lack of communication and the numerous barriers between them. They were both going to through sooo much. But they kept coming to each other, back to each other. It was powerful and beautiful.

Trigger Warnings: coercion, violence, death/murder, discrimination, medical experimentation, non-con blood sucking, non-con drug use, and more.

#howtobiteyourneighborandwinawager #howtosellyourbloodandfallinlove #howtobareyourneckandsaveawreck #howtoflauntyourchainsandsurrenderavein #dnbryn #guidesfordatingvampires #guidesfordatingvampriesseries #books #queerbooks #queererotica #bodicerippers #bookstagram #bookphotography #ilovebooks

Awakening His Vampire Mate (Blood Bonded Mates #6)

"Awakening His Vampire Mate" is the sixth book in Jay Castle's Blood Bonded Mates series.

["Cole
For eight hundred years, I’ve walked this world without feeling even a shred of human emotion. I hunt murderers with a song in my heart, but I’m no hero, anti or otherwise. I enjoy besting other predators, and my own pleasure has always been the only thing that matters. My world is clean, simple, and perfect.
Then Eli stumbles into my life, and everything changes. The moment he looks at me with those dark, haunted eyes and calls me by a name I haven’t used in centuries, I feel something I thought lost to me forever: the ability to care for someone who isn’t me.
Suddenly, my existence isn’t about pleasure anymore. I would burn it all down for him without even a moment’s hesitation. But Eli has built his life around saving others. If he ever learns what I’ve done or who I really am, he’ll never forgive me.
He can never know the truth.

Eli
I’ve seen Nicolas in my dreams for as long as I can remember. I always wake up gasping, drowning in feelings of heartbreak I can’t explain. But that’s sheer madness. I should be focused on the grueling hours I’m putting in at the ER. On my unstable ex, whose threats are getting worse. On my sister, whose life is falling apart right in front of me. Or maybe even on the fact that every man I’ve ever given my heart to has shattered it. Those things matter. The dreams don’t.
Until the night I meet Nicolas. Then everything I thought I knew starts to unravel. Because he’s real. And he’s not human. I know I should run. But how can I leave the one person who’s always been mine, even before we’ve ever met? Still, I know he’s hiding something from me. Something far worse than his lack of heartbeat.
And I have to know what it is. Even if it destroys everything."]

The fact that they were both awakened in some manner by meeting each other is a beautiful parallel. Not just about their love for each other, but past lives and old feelings. It was adorable and much deeper than I could imagine this book going. 

I also love how we were told so many times how horrible Nicolas was. Granted, he wasn't a good person, but he wasn't entirely evil. He had evil urges, but he did good things with them (or at least, he took the evil urges out on evil people).

Plus all of the new fated mates that we were (again--some the same as last time and some brand-new ones) introduced. So more books. PLUS a spin-off series!

Trigger Warnings: on-page violence (never between partners), mentions of off-page abuse occurring in the past, depictions of alcoholism, death, stalking, and more.

#arcs #arcteammember
#snowedinwiththevampireprince #embracinghisvampiremate #marriedtothevampireking #huntinghisvampiremate #taminghisvampiemate #awakeninghisvampiremate #bloodbondedmates #bloodbondedmatesseries #jaycastle #books #queerbooks #queererotica #bodicerippers #bookstagram #bookphotography #ilovebooks

The World's Wimpiest Vampire (Supernatural Suckers #2)

Here's Silvana Falcon's "The World's Wimpiest Vampire." It's the second book in her Supernatural Suckers series. 

["The world’s wimpiest vampire meets the hunter who cannot believe this is their target.

Charlie never asked to be turned into a vampire. In fact, the whole thing was a drunken mistake. One minute, he was minding his own business, the next, some idiot vampire bit him on a dare—and then immediately regretted it and abandoned him.

Now Charlie is very bad at being undead. He faints at the sight of blood, refuses to bite people, and has spent the last six months trying to survive on beet juice, cherry Kool-Aid, and sheer denial. The vampire world wants nothing to do with him, and honestly? He gets it.

Simon is a seasoned vampire hunter. Ruthless, efficient, and completely dedicated to the cause, he’s spent years taking down deadly creatures of the night. When he finally tracks down Charlie Dracul, he expects a monster.

Instead, he finds a sleep-deprived disaster with ketchup on his hoodie who nearly passes out when he pulls out a stake.

Simon should end this embarrassment of a vampire immediately. But it feels unsporting. And, worse, the longer he watches Charlie bumble his way through undead existence, the harder it is to look away.

Killing monsters is easy. Figuring out what to do with a vampire who sucks at being a vampire?

That’s another problem entirely."]

I knew this book would be crack, based solely off the first book. But I understand estimated just how…Charlie Charlie would be. Adorable as hell, but clumsy and klutzy and anxious and a hot fucking mess, the largest of hot messes. Good thing Simon showed up when he did.

Or not, considering…everything that Simon is and does and believes in. 

I didn’t realize how much of a slow burn this was as I was reading it. It felt smooth and…not torturous. We were given so many lovely hints and hits of romance and fluff that it didn’t feel like we had no hope for a future HEA.

Epilogue: I’d like the next book now please. Thank you.

Trigger Warnings: violence, stalking, murder, attempted murder, brain washing, and more.

#booksprout #arcs #arcteammember
#hellsmostincompetentdemon #theworldswimpiestvampire #theafterlifesmostanxioousreaper #supernaturalsuckers #supernaturalsuckersseries #silvanafalcon #books #queerbooks #queererotica #bodicerippers #bookstagram #bookphotography #ilovebooks

Under Gorse and Stone

Here's Lily Morton's latest: "Under Gorse and Stone."

["Cary Sutton isn’t surprised when his boyfriend walks out on him during a holiday in Cornwall at Christmas. It’s far from the first time that someone's accused him of being cold — both inside and out. Cary’s spent his whole life feeling like he’s separated from the world by a sheet of glass. Nothing touches him. Nothing moves him.

Which is why it’s so strange to find himself drawn to a small Cornish beach and the man he meets there. Sigurd Arvesen is handsome and charming, but he also holds a secret — one that’s big enough to overturn Cary’s whole world.

Sigurd is a centuries-old dragon, and Cary is his mate.

Whisked into Sigurd’s magical world, Cary meets strange and wonderful creatures that he’s only ever read about in books. The mystical realm is both enchanting and dark, but even scarier are the warm feelings that Sigurd brings out in Cary.

What will happen when Christmas Eve dawns and Cary must go home?"]

I’ve dreamed of writing a book like this for so long. Hidden ruins that are thinned vails to a different, magical world. A world that you belong to, one that remembers you even if you don’t remember it, a world that loves and accepts all for the weird and strange parts of yourself that you’ve never been able to explain. Plus fated love. Allll of the yes. 

It was magical in all of the ways, eyes wide open to old tales and new loves. New friends, old loves, sales of fantasy come alive. It was beautiful and filled deeply with Norwegian and Viking history. Plus tales of Arthur and Merlin. 

These two were beautiful as hell. Instantly drawn to each other, magic alive in the air around them, everyone knowing what they were/are to each other, even if Cary didn't see it yet. It was deep and adorable and spicy, all a perfect balance wrapped up in a Christmas bow.

#grr #arcs #arcteammember
#undergorseandstone #lilymorton #books #queerbooks #queererotica #bodicerippers #bookstagram #bookphotography #ilovebooks

Bull's Boy

Here's Kiki Clark's "Bull's Boy." It is a stand-alone set within the Leather & Chrome universe.

["“Consider my lap your throne. You can sit on it whenever you please.”

Getting passed over by women for his height and for not being “manly” enough has become the story of Malcolm’s life. He’s tired of it and just about ready to give up on dating completely.

What’s the point? He can’t make himself taller and being Mr. Take Charge will never be his vibe.

And not only is his romantic life in shambles but bills are piling up and now his awful older brother is getting married and wants to do a destination wedding.

Malcolm can hear his bank account crying already.

What he needs is a chance to just relax and forget his worries for an evening. What he doesn’t expect is for his giant of a boss to step in and help him out. No one has ever made him feel the things Bull does. He’s quiet and kind, and his eyes follow Malcolm, keeping watch over him.

Bull deserves a proper thank-you. Something that makes him feel as good as Malcolm does after their night out with Bull’s friends.

Something tells him one reckless encounter won’t be his last. Bull is about to change his life… and claim him for his own."]

This book has been popping up on my socials for sooo long. Not sure why it took me binge-reading all of Kiki's works to finally get to it. Big mistake on my part. Because this book was sooooo good! So freaking good!! I loved how it was set within the Leather & Chrome universe and how many cameos we got (soooo much Ollie). Plus all of the teasing for Marv's book?!

I loved how it took everything great in the Leather & Chrome universe but elevated it. It was better and deeper and sweeter than the others. Which I didn't think was possible.

They fell hard and they fell fast, but they had so much trust with each other. They were open and honest and let themselves be vulnerable. In turn, they got to be sweet and all kinds of spicy.

Trigger Warning: brief homophobia from a family member, homophobic slur, emotionally neglectful parents, verbally and emotionally abusive older sibling, power imbalance, mild depiction of poverty/financial imbalance, mild violence, degradation but not always in a fun/consensual way, and more.

#bullsboy #kikiclark #leatherandchrome #leatherandchromeseries #books #queerbooks #queererotica #bodicerippers #bookstagram #bookphotography #ilovebooks

Faker (Forever Family Trilogy #3)

Here's Kiki Clark's Forever Family Trilogy. The third novel is "Faker."

["Falling for your straight best friend while he pretends to be your boyfriend is something not even Samuel would be foolish enough to do.

And yet...



All Samuel wanted was to not show up to his ex's wedding alone, but his friend Will has a better idea: go as fake boyfriends to make him jealous.

What could possibly go wrong?

Well, for starters, Samuel’s ex knows Will isn’t gay. Of course, Will has a solution for that too.

They’ll just have to convince him. By whatever means necessary.

As the big day approaches—and he and Will keep practicing how to pull off their charade—Samuel’s not sure he’ll make it through the wedding festivities without losing some of his dignity.

And maybe his best friend."]

This one was a little more angsty, a little more hurt/comfort than the other two novellas. But it also felt almost sweeter in the end.

I love best friends to lovers stories, and this one was adorable. It was all about safety and vulnerability and trust and communication and found family, being able to lean on your friends to help you out with your emotions. 

And the epilogue? I'm not crying; you're crying. That was too much and yet perfect for the two of them. More friends, more found family, move love and support and kindness, spreading it all to others in need.

Trigger Warnings: foster care system, homophobic/toxic exs, and more.

#favor #easy #faker #foreverfamilytrilogy #foreverfamilytrilogyseries #kikiclark #books #queerbooks #queererotica #bodicerippers #bookstagram #bookphotography #ilovebooks

Easy (Forever Family Trilogy #2)

Here's Kiki Clark's Forever Family Trilogy. The second novel is "Easy."

["Who knew a chipped tooth could lead to love?

Simon is ready for the real deal when it comes to relationships—unfortunately, his libido hasn’t gotten the message. After string of disastrous hookups, he finds himself frustrated, annoyed, and missing part of a tooth.

Enter Dr. Jackson Allbrook.

Simon is pretty sure dentists aren’t supposed to be as good-looking as Jackson is. Though the recline of the exam chair is pretty convenient…

Things heat up quickly between the two of them, but Simon’s hesitant to believe he’s actually found his Mr. Right. Jackson’s never been with a man before, so what happens if he decides to go back to playing for the other team?"]

This book! D: It adorable and fun and awkward and vulnerable. 

I gotta say, I love meet-awkwards sooo much more than meet-cutes. It feels more genuine and realistic…it’s also sooo much more entertaining. 

I liked this story more than the first one. It felt more flushed out, it had more time with the couple on-page together, and we were shown how perfect they were together versus someone/someones just stating that fact over and over.

#favor #easy #faker #foreverfamilytrilogy #foreverfamilytrilogyseries #kikiclark #books #queerbooks #queererotica #bodicerippers #bookstagram #bookphotography #ilovebooks

Favor (Forever Family Trilogy #1)

Here's Kiki Clark's Forever Family Trilogy. The first novel is "Favor."

["Never fall for straight guys--especially when they're friends with your brother.

Jeremy knows that. Honest! All he wanted was a little work done on his house.

That was it. Nothing too complicated.

And if he can get it done cheap because some guy owes his brother a favor? Even better!

The last thing he expected when Declan knocked on his door was to find the hottest man he'd ever seen. Or for that person to barely be able to speak to him or look him in the eye.

Why would his brother even be friends with a 'phobic dudebro?

By the time the renovations are finishing up, Jeremy's prepared to let Declan's favor to his brother be paid in full and forget about the guy's shy smile and ripped body.

But his interfering brother has other plans."]

A trilogy of novellas that are all about found family and friendship and HEAs?! Yes, please!!

Talk about the miscommunication and assumptions in this one. Wooow. These two...needed a wack to the back of the head (luckily, big bro was there, happy to assist). But Jeremy and Declan eventually figured it out. Eventually. With some head-wacking and guilty moments and oh-wow-I-missed-that moments. But it was...oddly really, really cute. It was innocent and fun and flirty, even if they both just needed to be locked in a room together to figure out their shit.

Plus those last few chapters?! Their HEA playing out and playing out better than either of them (or big bro) anticipated?!?! Golden.

#favor #easy #faker #foreverfamilytrilogy #foreverfamilytrilogyseries #kikiclark #books #queerbooks #queererotica #bodicerippers #bookstagram #bookphotography #ilovebooks

December's Book Shape Challenge 2025

Here's December's Book Shape Challenge! A lanky, awkward moose in honor of National Maple Syrup Day.

Last year, I went with holiday-themed (mostly) book shape challenges; this year, I'm thinking animals (which is less--and yet more--of a challenge (we'll see how it goes)).

(I picked all of these books at random, based off the color of their cover; not based on: whether I read them or not--most of which I haven't, sense why they were closest).

#reading #readingchallenge #readingdare #bookdare #bookchallenge #alphabetchallenge #beatthebacklog #monthlythemes #monthlychallenge #bookshape #bookshapechallenges #books #bookstagram #bookphotography #ilovebooks

Snowed In With You

Here's "Snowed In With You" by Rye Cox.

["Eli
There was a time when I thought my new stepbrother, Nathan Bailey, and I could be friends. Best friends, even. But then I walked past his room and hear his friends make fun of me. Instead of defending me, he laughs with them. And his clueless act when I give him the cold shoulder? That just seals the deal. I hate Nathan Bailey.
The only thing that can be worse than being forced to drive to our family’s annual Christmas retreat with him is being caught in a snowstorm and trapped in a different cabin. Alone.

Nathan
When my dad married Eli Madison’s mom, I was excited about the possibility of having a brother. We seemed to be on our way to a great friendship when Eli suddenly stopped speaking to me. He’s been a cute, angry kitten for years now, and I don’t know why. It would help if he talked to me, but when he isn’t ignoring me, his words drip with disdain. What I do know is that Eli Madison hates me.
The only good thing about being trapped in this cabin with him is that he can finally tell me what I did wrong all those years ago… and maybe I can figure out why cute is the first word that comes to mind when I think of him. My stepbrother."]

This story was adorable as hell. Eli hated Nathan soo much, and Nathan had no clue. Nathan had so many faces (work-face, family-face, friends-face), that he didn't know who he really was. When their walls were forced down, they quickly realized how perfectly matched they were together.

It was a little clumsy, a little awkward, but it was a lot of gut feelings and butterflies and sweetness. And pillow thievery. 

Trigger Warnings: past parent death, past (off-page) bullying, and more.

#snowedinwithyou #ryecox #books #queerbooks #queererotica #bodicerippers #bookstagram #bookphotography #ilovebooks

Priest (Trident Agency #2)

I have a lot of things to do but let just keep binge-reading an author. Here's Kiki Clark's (and EM Lindsey's) Trident Agency series. The second book is "Priest."

["There’s a fine line between lust and love…

Feeding on the pleasure of other creatures might sound like the perfect life, but Priest knows the truth. The bottomless hunger and the never-ending need for more will eventually drive him to the brink of madness.

It’s the fate of all Incubi.

But until then, he’s determined to spend as much time as possible checking on the human bookstore owner who turns Priest into a tongue-tied mess. Oliver doesn’t seem to mind, treating him with a kindness he’s never experienced from anyone outside his Trident Agency family.

Fumbling flirtations is all it can ever be though. The risk of draining Oliver is too great, and Priest refuses to put him at risk.

But then the bookstore goes up in flames, and Priest learns he’ll do just about anything to keep Oliver safe.

Protecting the reckless human he has been obsessed with for months may be the only truly good thing he does with his life. But the longer they’re together, the more difficult it is to resist his demon’s cravings, and the more secrets they uncover. About Oliver… and supernaturals like Priest and his friends.

As the Alpha Team investigates and attacks keep coming—forming a terrifyingly familiar picture—Priest and Oliver have to learn to trust each other… and themselves."]

Oh Priest, our poor, broken, in desperate need of a cuddle, Priest. Good thing that Oliver is stubborn as fuck and not willing to put up with any of Priests overprotective (albeit understandable) holdups.

These two didn’t have it easy (and I have a feeling that as each book in the series progresses, each new couple will have it less easy). But they had faith (Oliver) and found family (Priest) and each other. 

This is another series that I want all of Right Now, but we’ll have to wait for. I love the couple HEAd, but I’m not a fan of the series HFN (mostly because I’m impatient).

Trigger Warnings: threats, violence, murder, fictional-slurs, discrimination, hate/hate-speech, and more.

#sunshine #priest #knight #tridentagency #tridentagencyseries #kikiclark #emlindsey #books #queerbooks #queererotica #bodicerippers #bookstagram #bookphotography #ilovebooks

Sunshine (Trident Agency #1)

I have a lot of things to do but let just keep binge-reading an author. Here's Kiki Clark's (and EM Lindsey's) Trident Agency series. The first book is "Sunshine."

["There’s a fine line between hate and fated mates…

Jeremiah has better things to do than babysit the bratty crown prince of the Sirens. His personal protection agency is the best though and the king and queen won’t settle for less.

Being a practically invulnerable Hellhound doesn’t hurt either.

Remi’s selfish and uncaring attitude drives him crazy and confirms his suspicions about the prince being nothing more than a spoiled man-child. He doesn’t care that the more time they spend together, the more possessive his Hellhound becomes of the little princeling.

Or that it turns out first impressions might be misleading…

Falling for a client is the last thing he can let happen. His name and his company’s reputation are on the line. He won’t be led around by his… instincts.

When things begin to heat up between them though, he can’t deny their connection might just be destiny. One thing he knows for sure?

Fire and water will always make steam."]

The fact that Jeremiah is the grumpiest grump to ever grump and his nickname is Sunshine? D: Yes. All of the yes.

I loved this universe. Parts of it was typical paranormal lore, but there was new aspects to it that made the series fascinating and unique. I loved the fated mates (duh), and how so much of the Trident Agency members were lost and broken but bonded like brothers. They all deserve a HEA, even if it comes with some danger (and brattiness). 

Remi was a brat, but he was also using that as a shield to protect himself. He was so much more than his actions. It took Jeremiah a while to figure it out (his own stubbornness mixed with no-I'm-not-attracted-to-him). 

They probably weren't as subtle as they thought they were... Actually, I can guarantee you they weren't. But it was adorable, how stuck in their own world they were, falling in love and letting go. 

Trigger Warnings: threats, attempted kidnapping, kidnapping, violence, murder, fictional-slurs, discrimination, hate/hate-speech, and more.

#sunshine #priest #knight #tridentagency #tridentagencyseries #kikiclark #emlindsey #books #queerbooks #queererotica #bodicerippers #bookstagram #bookphotography #ilovebooks

Banger (Blue Collar Hearts #2)

Here's Kiki Clark's "Banger." It's the second novel to her Blue Collar Hearts series.

["If there was one thing Kevin knew, it was that his BFF’s ex was bad news.

Hank is arrogant, a sloppy drunk, and a complete flirt. And he didn't treat Kevin’s friend the way he deserved.

Enough said.

It doesn’t matter that everyone else has forgiven and forgotten what happened between Hank and Kevin’s bestie. He won’t let himself fall for the older man’s sweet words or endearments.

Especially not after… that night.

Getting ghosted by a guy Kevin wasn’t even really interested in—okay, he maybe sort of could have been, but definitely not now—was the final nail in the coffin. Just because Hank wormed his way into Kevin’s life and friend group, doesn’t mean Kevin has to give him the time of day.

Too bad, Hank isn’t getting that message."]

Miscommunication after miscommunication. Misunderstanding after misunderstanding. Misstep after misstep. They were so close soooo many times. It was frustrating as hell, but it also made the eventual HEA even better.

I liked this book the best in the series so far. The vulnerability and trust was earned and sooo freaking sweet. Their relationship was so many second chances and late night talks and moments of weakness that caved into rewards. They were just so cute! 

Though, I have a feeling the next one with be amazing!!

Trigger Warnings: alcoholism, parental abuse, parental addiction, and more.

#outinthecold #layingpipe #banger #bluecollarhearts #bluecollarheartsseries #books #queerbooks #queererotica #bodicerippers #bookstagram #bookphotography #ilovebooks

Laying Pipe (Blue Collar Hearts #1)

Here's Kiki Clark's "Laying Pipe." It's the first novel to her Blue Collar Hearts series.

["Being in love with your dad’s best friend is a recipe for loneliness.

Trust me, I know.

But I can’t help it. How can I not fall for someone as sweet and caring and attractive as John? Especially after he comes and fixes a leaking pipe in my basement. No questions asked. Just shows up, flashes his knee-weakening smile, and leaves.

Afterward, I notice John watching me with heat in his eyes sometimes. John, who’s only ever dated women, can’t seem to figure out he isn’t supposed to stare at certain parts of my very male body.

I know my dad won’t like it if he finds out, but we’re both adults. If there’s a chance I can have something real with John, I have to go for it.

Right?"]

Oh were these two adorable. They both needed a little push to be vulnerable and a little burst of confidence. They both were so terribly sweet and thoughtful. They both messed up once or twice, but immediately realized their mistake. They weren't perfect, but they were perfect for each other.

#outinthecold #layingpipe #banger #bluecollarhearts #bluecollarheartsseries #books #queerbooks #queererotica #bodicerippers #bookstagram #bookphotography #ilovebooks

Out in the Cold (Blue Collar Hearts #0.5)

Here's Kiki Clark's "Out in the Cold." It's the opening novella/prequel to her Blue Collar Hearts series.

["Being rescued by a hot lumberjack after catching his fiancé cheating was the only good thing to happen to Beau for quite some time.

Getting stuck in the man’s cabin for the weekend? There were definitely worse ways to pass a few days.

Falling for him when the guy made it clear he didn’t do relationships? Well, Beau just wouldn’t do that… probably."]

What we'd all hope for if we were stuck in a snow storm: a cuddly dog, delicious hot cocoa, and a grumpy lumberjack to the rescue. Not to mention falling into some series feelings in one weekend.

I'm not sure yet how this novel is connected to the series, but I'm here for it. 

#outinthecold #layingpipe #banger #bluecollarhearts #bluecollarheartsseries #books #queerbooks #queererotica #bodicerippers #bookstagram #bookphotography #ilovebooks

Tempest (Silver Oak Pack #1)

Here's Kiki Clark's "Tempest." It's the first novel in her Silver Oak Pack series, which is a spin-off of her Kincaid Pack series.

["When duty and desire clash, fated mates are caught in the middle.

Cash’s loyalty to his pack is unwavering. He’d sacrifice anything to protect his packmates. Do anything to keep them safe. Put their needs above his own—always.

It is the life he was born for, and the one he’s worked years to achieve. As an Enforcer, he swore an oath to his pack before self. Not once has he regretted his choices. Until an injured eagle shifter lands in his lap, and his protective instincts get torn in two. He knows he can’t risk the safety of his pack—no matter what his panther demands. Once the little bird is all healed up, Cash will have to send him on his way. For the good of his pack. But dark, frightened eyes and a sweet smile call to his cat in a hungry, possessive way and challenge everything he’s ever thought he knew. For the first time in his life, he might just have to put himself first."]

Am I ready for another whole-series plot line where we get couple-HEAs but not a universal HEA until the last book? Especially when the only book in the series out now is the first one? I mean...no...but here we are.

One: Cash is an idiot. Two: Ore should be protected at all costs, kept wrapped in sunshine, and constantly fed hot cocoa. 

But they finally figure out their shit (Cash and his baggage--Ore and his injuries) together. They were adorable and quite possibly the couple-goals for the new pack. 

I can't wait for more of this series! We got sooo many teasers!

Two other things...Robbie's future mate is in for it (loove him). And Liam's mate is going to be a lot (I have a feeling his HEA is going to be last--parallel to how Rick's was first--and it's going to be dramatic aF).

Trigger warnings: childhood abandonment, fictional-slur, past experiences of stalking/unwanted attention, medical torture, being held captive, kidnapping, violence, death/murder, and more.

#inferno #tempest #fervor #silveroakpack #silveroakpackseries #kikiclark #kincaidpack #kincaidpackseries #books #queerbooks #queererotica #bodicerippers #bookstagram #bookphotography #ilovebooks

The Mobster's Mate (Kincaid Pack)

Here's Kiki Clark's "The Mobster's Mate." It's in the Kincaid Pack universe, and you should read the Kincaid Pack series first, but this novel is technicalllllly a stand-alone. Which then leads us to the spin-off series: Silver Oak Pack.

["A human mob boss and an injured jaguar shifter brought together by a cruel enemy… and fate.

Caden hasn’t believed in fated mates since he was a cub. He figures it’s more of a fairytale that shifter parents tell their kids than the reality of what passes for mates in some of the packs he’s seen.

But then he comes face-to-face with a human man who smells like orange blossoms and radiates authority and safety.

And Caden… Well, he hasn’t felt safe in a long time.

While the rest of the world fears and reviles Quinten Amato and the things he does under the guise of his business, Caden is drawn to him like a cub to an alpha. He doesn’t care what anyone says or what Quinten does, he and his jaguar know the kind of man he is.

The kind who saved his life.
The kind who comforts him when he wakes up terrified.
The kind whose calm commands set his blood on fire.

Convincing his bossy human they’re meant to be together isn’t going to be easy. Especially not when Quinten’s certain Caden needs things he can’t get from him—and that being a part of Quinten’s life in the shadows is too dangerous.

And he might be right."]

The (utterly relatable and perfect) dedication: "For all my readers who wished that Rick had one more than just taken a couple of hands... This one is for you." I do love me a dark romance. And a romance where the "big bad mobster man" is a secret softie (annnd gets called out on his shit by his found family). 

This two were adorable and fun and flirty. It wasn't all easy. There was past traumas and feelings of inadequacy that got in the way. But they made it work...eventually. After some lack of communication and all-too-honest-truths and pissed off best friends and a run-in with a bad guy. 

I loved how Quin evolved from our first glimpse of him to the start of this book to the HEA. Also...who's ready for a spin-off series?

Trigger warnings: physical and medical torture, mental health, death/murder, blood, and more.

#anewpackfornewyear #thealphaandhisking #thesecondandhisbonded #thedeputyandhisenforcer #hishunterandhismates #theenforcerandhisheart #thewitchandhisdoctor #themobstersmate #kincaidpack #kincaidpackseries #silveroakpack #silveroakpackseries #kikiclark #books #queerbooks #queererotica #bodicerippers #bookstagram #bookphotography #ilovebooks

The Witch and His Doctor (Kincaid Pack #6)

Here's Kiki Clark's "The Witch and His Doctor." It's the sixth and final novel for her Kincaid Pack series.

["In this series finale, the Kincaid Pack is forced to put everything on the line… or lose everything they hold dear.

Damien has a secret.

Actually, he has more than one. His entire life within the Kincaid Pack has been a lie. Now that the truth is starting to come out, he’s faced with accepting the consequences he set into motion years ago.

And hoping his mate will forgive him.

Except the reckless actions of his past may prove to not only be his own undoing… but that of the pack he’s come to love.

Carter gave up on finding his fated mate years ago.

He has a medical practice to keep him busy, a pack he’d do anything for, and a family that’s always been a little too nosy for his peace of mind.

Learning the witch he’s grown to admire and have feelings for has betrayed them all? Just proves he’s getting too old for the whole falling-in-love thing. It doesn’t matter that the moment he catches Damien’s unaltered scent he realizes another devastating secret the man has been hiding.

The only thing that matters is saving the pack—and its alpha.

With Rick’s life hanging in the balance and the pack’s enemies moving to strike against them while they’re at their most vulnerable, it will take every scrap of magic and bravery Damien possesses to prove once and for all where his loyalty lies."]

Well, here's to crying MORE. Constantly and dramatically for the first half of the book. Then again, it is really my fault that Rick keeps dying and Kai keep crying and Bennett is acting out and Gabriel is losing his composure and Damien is breaking apart and Carter is losing his mind over the honey smell from Carter he can not finally scent? No, it's not.

Lots of shit happens, lots of secrets are revealed, lots of trust is broken and rebuilt, lots of crying happens (not just me). But they work through it together, like a family, like a proper pack.

There's still some things hanging over them, maybe, but this series is over (sorta).

Trigger warnings: violence, blackmail, threats, torture, attempted murder, kidnapping, parental death and grief, murder, and more.

#anewpackfornewyear #thealphaandhisking #thesecondandhisbonded #thedeputyandhisenforcer #hishunterandhismates #theenforcerandhisheart #thewitchandhisdoctor #themobstersmate #kincaidpack #kincaidpackseries #kikiclark #books #queerbooks #queererotica #bodicerippers #bookstagram #bookphotography #ilovebooks

The Enforcer and His Heart (Kincaid Pack #5)

Here's Kiki Clark's "The Enforcer and His Heart." It's the fifth novel for her Kincaid Pack series.

["With Keegan's safety on the line, there is nothing Nico won't do to protect him.

The mysterious Keegan has been haunting Nico's dreams.

Ever since the night he stormed through the pack's protections like they were nothing, Nico hasn't been able to forget the powerful young witch. Not his scarred face, his loyalty, or his fierce but sad eyes.

Nico just wished he'd caught Keegan's scent. He ached to know if his fated mate is a witch stuck on the other side of the country.

No one will stop him from finding out.

The Kincaid Pack is trouble.

Everyone knew that, and Keegan's coven forbid contact with them.

But Keegan broke the rules, and now he can't stop dreaming about a shifter he barely caught a glimpse of the night he'd helped the pack. The teasing smile he sees every time he shuts his eyes is becoming a near obsession.

One he isn't sure he wants to stop."]

I assumed because these two knew they were fated mates from the very beginning of their story, that their relationship would be easier. I was wrong. And I cried, a lot. 

It got better. They communicated and apologized and communicated some more. There were cuddles and puppy piles and more crying (them this time, not me). And a HEA.

Or not!! My fucking fuck! That ending was anything but okay. I’m assuming things will be okay, but ugh!!! But then I imagine having read this one and having to wait for the next one to be published; at least I have that.

Trigger warnings: violence, loss of limb, PTSD, anxiety attack, feelings of inadequacy, and more.

#anewpackfornewyear #thealphaandhisking #thesecondandhisbonded #thedeputyandhisenforcer #hishunterandhismates #theenforcerandhisheart #thewitchandhisdoctor #themobstersmate #kincaidpack #kincaidpackseries #kikiclark #books #queerbooks #queererotica #bodicerippers #bookstagram #bookphotography #ilovebooks

The Hunter and His Mates (Kincaid Pack #4)

Here's Kiki Clark's "The Hunter and His Mates." It's the fourth novel for her Kincaid Pack series.

["As personal assistant to a powerful alpha of a large pack, there are certain rules Jamie has for himself to make sure he’s successful at his job.

First, nothing and no one gets to the alpha without his say so.

Second, schedules will be enforced for everyone. At all costs.

Third, a certain Enforcer with an enticing scent and scarred face is not to be stared at, drooled over, and/or daydreamed about.

And fourth, human hunters are never, ever mate material—no matter what their smiles or Southern drawls do to him.

But what if his own rules are preventing Jamie from finding something unique and magical and hotter than he could ever imagine? Because being caught between a grumpy cougar and a dangerous hunter was the last place Jamie thought he should be… but it might just be exactly where he needs to be to find both of his fated mates."]

Oh. My. God. Yesss!

These three were adorable and perfect and a hot mess. They each had a reason to pull back, to be afraid of the future, to not pull down all their walls. But they kept coming back to each other again and again. They kept wanting to better themselves so they could be healthier for their mates. 

There was a misplaced "duh duh duhhhhh" in this one. Don't get me wrong, that last chapter was hot, but ending it on (redacted) finding out that she's (redacted)? THAT would have been one gloriously amazing ending (and gloriously cliffhanger-y). 

Trigger warnings: violence, loss of limb, PTSD, anxiety attack, feelings of inadequacy, and more.

#anewpackfornewyear #thealphaandhisking #thesecondandhisbonded #thedeputyandhisenforcer #hishunterandhismates #theenforcerandhisheart #thewitchandhisdoctor #themobstersmate #kincaidpack #kincaidpackseries #kikiclark #books #queerbooks #queererotica #bodicerippers #bookstagram #bookphotography #ilovebooks