#WOTR24 #MM #Cowboys – Falling Hard, Eight Second Ride book 1 by Sandy Sullivan

Falling Hard (Eight Second Ride, #1)

Meet two champion bull riders–macho, muscled Marlboro Men, confident, cocksure cowboys–from their struggle for survival in the rodeo arena, and 8 seconds of fame on the back of a 2000 lb bull to their most private encounters behind closed doors where their world is about to explode…

Levi Bond is a seasoned pro, competing for the World Championship. Bull riding is what gets his adrenaline pumping, his heart racing, and makes him feel like a million bucks. That, and the idea of getting it on with Curt Walsh, one of the up and coming stars of the bull riding circuit. Powerfully attracted, Curt’s confused and unsure which way he wants his life to go. Will Levi still be around, available and interested when the final decision is made?

Get set for a wild ride in this cowboy romance, sizzling with intense desire, unbridled passion, and unexpected emotion as Levi and Curt, drawn together like mega magnets, battle not only life threatening, white knuckled action in the arena, but cruelty and bias outside it. The prospect of falling in love is as terrifying as staying on the bull without it killing them!

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Amazon

Review by Twinsie Angie

I received this book to beta read from the author.

I have read a ton of Sandy’s book and have enjoyed them all. However, I have to say, this book is my favorite of all. I love the story she created with Curt and Levi. I loved the fact we got to see this couple form a solid friendship while also developing a lasting love. I cannot wait for more from this series and to see where Curt and Levi go because at the end there will still one big lingering questions!!!

Levi is a very well respected bull rider. He is the older guy on the circuit that is kinda the “good guy”. He will help out anyone that needs it. He is also a loner and known to be gay on the circuit. He is ok with that but also doesn’t flaunt his sexuality in the faces of the guys who DONT approve with his lifestyle choices. Levi has watched from afar Curt. Curt is fun and easy going BUT he likes the ladies….or does he???

Curt had heard that Levi is into guys but wasn’t sure. Soooo what’s a guy do when he is interested? He asks to room with Levi. He figures , if he is GAY then he is super close to get to “knowing” him better!!

The guys really get to know each other while they are also “getting to know each other”. Levi is so strong but loves that Curt is super alpha. Curt who loves to take charge loves allowing this other man to sometimes spin on him and take over. The jealousy they each have over the other one having someone else liking them was great. I loved seeing them both get angry and claiming the other man….plus its super hawt right???

Levi is very shy and about his relationship with Curt. He doesn’t want to rock the boat or upset anyone. Curt on the other hand could care less about what people think about him and his lifestyle except when it comes to his parents. But Levi wants permanent and Curt isn’t sure he cant settle down with a guy since he also enjoys the ladies as well.

Their love story is wound through them riding the bull circuit and loving each other hard. When Levi asks for more Curt cant seem to make a decision. Then there is an accident and the men realize that they could lose it all with one bad ride. Decisions are made and choices are told……This falling in love stuff is really hard on everyone no matter who you choose to love.

Sandy Sullivan is a romance author, who, when not writing, spends her time with her husband Shaun on their farm in middle Tennessee. She loves to ride her horses, play with their dogs and relax on the porch, enjoying the rolling hills of her home south of Nashville. County music is a passion of hers and she loves to listen to it while she writes.

She is an avid reader of romance novels and enjoys reading Nora Roberts, Jude Deveraux and Susan Wiggs. Finding new authors and delving into something different helps feed the need for literature. A registered nurse by education, she loves to help people and spread the enjoyment of romance to those around her with her novels. She loves cowboys so you’ll find many of her novels have sexy men in tight jeans and cowboy boots

#WOTR24 #SeriesStarter – Pretty Remarkable, Pine Village Book #.5 by Lacey Black

Blair

Returning home for the holidays after fifteen years is difficult enough without getting stuck in the snow.

When my best friend calls her brother to help, things take a turn from very frustrating to very complicated. I haven’t seen Gabe Rhodes since I was younger. He’s a little grumpier than I remember, and way hotter too.

He offers me shelter from the storm—the only problem…one bed.

Gabe

I would do anything for my sister, including rescue her friend after a long workday. However, the woman I find stranded in the snow is not the Blair O’Connor I remember.

She’s all grown up and I can’t look away from her gorgeous green eyes. The chemistry between us is electrifying. I bring her home to wait for the roads to clear— but it’s my head I need to clear. I tell myself to keep my hands to myself, she’s just passing through.

I was the perfect gentleman…until she comes walking down the stairs in the middle of the night wearing my shirt.

Goodreads

Amazon

Review by Twinsie Angie

I grabbed this book of Amazon when the author shared it was free.

Honestly if you haven’t read a Lacy book, I wanna know why?  But anyway.  This is a great short introduction to her writing and the characters of the novella series starter.  You get a great look at her style and character building for the series.

I loved it and jumped into the full book right away.

Avid reader, writer, mother, and wife! I love to read contemporary romance. Add in a little “spice” or hot guys in uniform pants, and I’m a happy woman. There’s just something about diving into a book and engrossing in the magic of your hero and heroine getting their happily ever after.

#WOTR24 #4thofJulyBook #Zombies – Ground Zero, Last of Us Series by Nikki Landis

Ground Zero: A Zombie Origin Novella: Last of Us - Ty, Zeke, & Natalie Part 1 by [Nikki Landis]

Stay quiet. Don’t look back. And never, ever scream.

The city has fallen . . . where will you run?

Before the world went to *** and the zombie apocalypse wreaked havoc on the nation …

The Fourth of July is one hell of a spectacular celebration and just so happens to be ground zero when a group of friends are suddenly confronted with over 400,000 flesh eating and newly turned zombies right in the heart of downtown Columbus, OH. Red, White, and Boom will never be the same …

*** Origin story of the Last of Us series, contains mature content ***

Ty, Zeke, & Natalie Part 1

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Amazon

Review by Twinsie Angie

I received this book from the author for an honest review.
I love me some Zombie books. They are the best. This series did not let me down. I have previously read book 2 in the series so I was excited to jump into book 1. Since this book was about a different cast of characters it didn’t matter the order to which you read but seeing as this book does explain the why of the outbreak, I would recommend reading it first. The characters in this story will cross over into other books with the characters from the next books…did that make sense?? LOL
This book is about brothers, Zeke and Ty, with Zeke’s girlfriend Natalie rounding out the main characters. The trio is watching the events of the flu epidemic followed by some dirty deeds with the cities drinking water.
The book is fast paced with lots of sext times in the reading as well. It’s a short novella but you get to see the beginning of the what happened when the city went to hell very quickly during the 4th of July celebration!!

Nikki Landis is the USA Today & International Bestselling, Multi-Award-Winning Author of over 50 romance novels in the MC, reverse harem, paranormal, dystopian, and science fiction genres. Her books feature deadly reapers, dark alpha heroes, protective shifters, and seductive vampires along with the feisty, independent women they love. There’s heart-throbbing action on every page as well as fated mates and soul bonds deep enough to fulfill every desire.

#WOTR24 #paranormal #shifters – Forbidden Shadows, Lee County Wolves book 7 by Teresa Gabelman

Haunted by his past failures, Malcolm fights daily to stay on track, yet every time he looks in the mirror, he sees a man full of hatred and rage. Trying to find his place among a new pack and alpha, Malcolm walks a narrow path hoping the mistakes from his past don’t reappear in his present.

Clare has lived in Lee County all her life. She learned early on about Shifters and has a special bond with them. They are her family. Clare learned to keep their secrets when she was young, but she was now free of all secrets with the Shifters out in the open. Or was she?

Malcolm fights his growing affection for Clare because he knows she deserves better than anything he could ever give her. It was as if the shadows from his past dared him to be happy, yet something told him that Clare might be the one to chase the shadows away.

Goodreads

Amazon

Review by Twinsie Angie

I was given this book by the author for an honest review.

I am a huge fan of this author.  I look forward to every release and every story. This series is a spin off of The Protectors Series but you do not need to read that to know these characters.  This is also the 7th book in the series but you don’t need to read the others to fall for Clare and Malcom.  I will say, you will 100% love it better having read the other books.  You get more backstory sprinkled in through the other books about these characters.  Also, Hunter. That is all I will say.  He makes me laugh each and every book.  Hunter Foster. LOL

Malcom is such a great grumpy character.  He hates himself for not protecting his sister even though she knows he did what he could.  He is not going to allow himself happiness and then he begins to notice Clare. He knew her but she has returned to town and seems different.

Clare is not thrilled to be going on this blind date and then starts to notice Malcom in a different way then before.  Anyway, she thinks there is no way with Malcom and dealing with her “secrets” keeps her busy.  When the blind date doesn’t go as planned and Malcom is there to help her, Clare is kind of swooning over Mr. Grumpy.

Of course, these two are running in each other’s paths.  She doesn’t understand why he is so grumpy after having huge smiles and belly laughs.  He is not sure why a woman like Clare would be interested in him.  Their story is a lot of fun to read.  Jamie, Malcom’s sister, made my day when she would annoy him about Clare.  The story of Deb was eye opening. Again, her story line ARC from book 1 to this was like WOW. I am really interested in what happens to her in the future books because 2nd chances are looking good on her.

New York Times and USA Today bestselling author, Teresa Gabelman, writes paranormal romance and contemporary romance with a side of humor in each story. Her heroines are strong and independent keeping the sexy alpha heroes on their toes.

Being a full-time writer has allowed Teresa to connect more with readers which is what she loves most about writing. If you find the time she would love to hear from you!

#review #shortstory #partofaseries #christmasread Naughty or Nice (Santa’s Coming Short Stories) by Laney Powell

The last time I saw Cate Morgan, she called me a name not fit for public consumption and walked away. This time wasn’t much better, since I was dressed in a Santa suit and had a kid reciting her list of wants in my ear.

Of course, the last time, I’d told her to go, but that was beside the point. She was here, now, in front of me – right where I’d always wanted her. Well, there are other places I want her, but in front of me is a good place to start. Now that she’s here – I’m going to do things differently. I don’t want to lose her again.

The challenge is getting her to see that we’re perfect for each other. I’m stuck playing Santa, so maybe I just need to get her to sit on my lap and tell me what she wants for Christmas. Then I can show her how nice it is to be on Santa’s Naughty List.

Santa comes once a year … or does he?

Goodreads https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/43232571-naughty-or-nice

Amazon https://amzn.to/3Ve1SrJ

Review by Twinsie Dee

i bought this book and here is my honest review

the mall at Christmas time is the worst, Cate had just gotten her doctorate degree in marine biology but when she hasn’t heard back from the jobs she applied for after college she moved back in with her parents and got a job in the mall till her applications was accepted. but when she noticed that Santa was a ghost from Christmas past how she will handle it. Will Cate be able to overcome the hurt from her past and if so, will Santa put her on the naughty or nice list this Christmas

I’m a Midwestern lady, a USA Today bestselling author living life in the Rocky Mountains. Cowboys, bad boys, billionaires, demons, shifters, witches, warlocks – I write them because I love them all. Everyone deserves a steamy, happily ever after.

#WOTR24 #Audiobooks #SerialKillers #Paranormal #FatedMates #Shifters #FootballPlayer #BestFriendsSibling #Hockey #Pirates #ForcedMarriage #BDSM – Twinsie Angie top 5…errr 6 books from January – June 2024, Butcher & Blackbird by Brynne Weaver, Devoted by AJ Renee, Shadows of Timber Creek by SJ Chaynie, Ryker by Samantha Lind, Scallywag by Sophie Stern, and Corrupted Innocents by Measha Stone

Attending authors for WOTR24 -AJ Renee, Measha Stone, Sophie Stern, SJ Chaynie, and Samantha Lind

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Butcher & Blackbird by Brynne Weaver This book has massive trigger warnings so check them before reading.

Synopsis –

Every serial killer needs a friend.
Every game must have a winner.

When a chance encounter sparks an unlikely bond between rival murderers Sloane and Rowan, the two find something elusive—the friendship of a like-minded, pitch-black soul. From small town West Virginia to upscale California, from downtown Boston to rural Texas, the two hunters collide in an annual game of blood and suffering, one that pits them against the most dangerous monsters in the country. But as their friendship develops into something more, the restless ghosts left in their wake are only a few steps behind, ready to claim more than just their newfound love. Can Rowan and Sloane dig themselves out of a game of graves? Or have they finally met their match?

Butcher & Blackbird is the first book in the Ruinous Love Dark Romance trilogy of interconnected stand-alone dark romantic comedies. This dual POV novel ends on a HEA.

Amazon Link

Goodreads Link

My Review –

I purchased the audiobook.
The narration was amazing. I haven’t listened to a story by either narrator but thought the killed it 8see what I did there* with the story.
My friend Kate messaged me and was like “GIRL you need this book.” I opened Goodreads to get the blurb and was SOLD….serial killers who kill other serial killers and fall in love…DUH This is a no-brainer.8 I looked up the triggers and was like WTF list was that. I laughed even. But when I downloaded the book and they read the list of triggers I laughed so hard. Like crazy hard. I knew I was going to be in for an epic ride when the story began.
So Blackird/Sloane is caught when Butcher/Rowan finds her. They have a bit of a chat and decide t have to “friendly” competition every year. And this is how the delicious story begins.
Sloane is a neurotic mess and Rowan is a bit of one too. They two of them grow to be friends and even kinda wanna be with the other…granted Rowan admits this right away in the beginning but Sloane was a little thick to get the point.
The chemistry was a slow simmer until the pot was boiling. I was dying much like they were for “more” to happen…when I does KABOOM. Hold on to your butts because this rocket is full throttle. They two are soon exploring each other and what could be.
Of course we have some drama and a mega plot twist but the story made my heart so happy. I also am looking forward to book 2 with Lachlan and Lark. These two are going to be a riot. I feel like the banter will be just as amazing and Rowan and Sloane.
I didn’t think the story was super dark until about chapter 21 and I got a little squeamish BUT I have read way worse. I will say I don’t know that I can eat Cookies and Cream ice cream again…IYKYK!!

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Devoted by AJ Renee

Synopsis –

No matter how much you try, you can’t outrun the past.

Opening old wounds is the last thing Ignacio Lupita wants to do. He’d literally and figuratively shed his blood, sweat, and tears to pull himself out of the darkness and open an auto shop in Boston. At last, business is picking up, so he’s working with a local pack to keep his life moving forward.

Pepper Michaels is living her best life in Vermont. One of her best friends has returned after three years in captivity, she’s working on her teaching degree, substitute teaching, and life on Malite land has been carefree to say the least. She thought she couldn’t be happier, but then she spotted him, her mate.

When the past is thrust before Ignacio, Pepper witnesses a side of him she can’t ignore. She knows she only gets one chance at a mate, but she hadn’t expected she’d need to be so careful around hers. Meanwhile, someone or something has been lurking on pack grounds. Can Ignacio confront enough of his demons before everything closes in?

Amazon Link

Goodreads Link

My Review –

I was given this book by the author for an honest review.
I am a GIANT fan of this series. I think I fall in love with each character and pairing to be honest.
We briefly met Ignacio when he took Carrie on a date last book…woops good things Lance didn’t kill him. LOL But this book we learn it is because he smelled his mate and thought it was her. Needless to say, he was wrong. He left the pack with a very grumpy wolf who demanded they find and claim their mate.
Pepper was stunned when she felt the mark on her hip and even more shocked when she realized it was the man who asked Carrie out. She loves her friend and lets her go knowing nothing would come of it. However, Pepper was going crazy not knowing who her mate WAS and when he would return.
To say the chemistry exploded when they finally got face to face is an understatement. These two were all about the sex and then the “get to know ya”. That may have caused issues when they didn’t know each other except between the sheets. Ignacio’s tragic past comes back and causes issues with Peter’s pack.
I loved the way the story turned, and we see so much past trauma and hurt. Ignacio learns the truth about what he THOUGHT he knew. He also must fix the bonds with his new mate due to his reactions to everything because they didn’t really know one another. The story takes another twist when we find out someone is after Ignacio. Pepper is bound and determined to find her mate with the help of our other pack friends.
Seriously I loved this book. I had planned on getting a few chapters in but didn’t stop reading until it was done. I was captivated by the story, the packs growing, the family ties between the 2 packs, and the love story of Pepper and Ignacio.

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Shadows of Timber Creek by S.J. Chaynie

Synopsis-

Seven years.
Seven years ago, I did the right thing. I broke her heart. I had always planned to come back. Planned to make things right. But time wasn’t on my side anymore. She was engaged. Another man’s ring was on her finger, and it was time to fight for what I’d always known was meant to be mine. Our history was painted with regret and unspoken truths, but now, I finally have the chance to close the distance between us. To show my best friend’s little sister she’s always been my end game. But something comes lurking out of the shadows. Something neither of us saw coming.
Book 3 of the Timber Creek Series. Series will contain interconnected standalones.
Please read reader note for TW.

Amazon Link

Goodreads Link

My Review –

I was given this book by the author for an honest review.
Oh boy. Greyson Roy you are one naughty and swoon worthy man. Look I am coming out of the gates with my favorite lines….”You are everything” followed by “Sit on my face NOW Rosie!!” Yes girls the same man who made me swoon also made my knees a little bit weak.
I gotta say Easton is still my main man but damn did Grey give him a run for his money.
This book is EVERYTHING you want with a Best Friend’s sibling and a little bit enemy to lover. The chemistry and sexual tension between Tilly/Rosie and Grey are OFF THE CHARTS!! Holy Moly. These two are meant to be together and yes there are legit reasons why Grey does the shady when he leaves 7 years ago…but he makes it up to her in so many ways as we discover through the novel. Every single time we learned of the ways Greyson “took care of Rosie” made my heartbeat faster. For real this book….swooooooooon. Tilly, as any heartbroken woman does…hides behind another man. LOL The story of her and Blaine is a wild ride.
The twists and turns of this story are great. I really had no clue who the bad guy was and was shocked when it all played out at the end. The end of the story gives us a glimpse into the next books and LAWD is it going to be good!! Whit is in trouble in a lot of ways.
I do want to say this is the 6th book I have read by this author. I love how her writing style is developing and her writing is just getting so much better. The first books were GREAT. I loved them but I feel like she is more confident. Her story telling had improved with each book. Her flow is much better. She is blowing me away with each additional story she is writing.

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Ryker by Samantha Lind

Synopsis –

After years of trying to get back home to be closer to my daughter, I finally secured a spot on the newly expanded San Francisco Shockwaves.

Juggling being the newly appointed Captain of the team and taking on full-time fatherhood to a teenager sends my life into chaos.

I quickly find myself needing someone who can pick up the pieces and keep my life in order as I certainly can’t do it alone.

I just never thought my savior would be the sexy woman next door- the one I can’t keep my mind or eyes off every chance I get.

Amazon link

Goodreads link

My Review –

I purchased this audiobook.
I want to start by saying that the narration was great. I enjoyed both James and Aria’s Voiced during the story. They both did a great job voicing the characters for the story.
I am a huge fan of Samantha’s stories. She does a great job writing characters that are relatable to me. This story is another one that I enjoyed as well.
Ryker and his daughter are looking for a place after she decided to live with him when he meets his super kind neighbor Avery. Avery is excited to meet the new neighbor and shocked at how sexy he is.
Fast forward to Ryker and Avery spending time together regarding his daughter and Avery helping him with her. I enjoyed Rykers daughter Ellie trying to push her dad and Avery together. She seemed a little more mature than a 15-year-old but still I loved her persistence.
Avery and Ryker have normal relationship issues and thankfully there wasn’t any OWD because I can’t stand that. LOL I loved the story and how Avery and Ryker were so supportive of each other. They are what an older couple in life would be concerned with….finances, kids, and time.
I enjoyed the start of the series and look forward to another story from the characters and the new players from the expansion team.

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Scallywag by Sophie Stern

Synopsis

ou won’t catch him spending the night.

The Dread Pirate Stone takes no survivors. He’s ruthless. Fearless.

He’s unstoppable, especially now that he’s so close to finding the Cat’s Eye – an emerald so big it will buy him a thousand ships. Or, in his case, pay off his debt to the man who’s been holding his sister hostage. Stone will do anything to get that damn rock. He’ll fight. He’ll pillage. He’ll even kill if he has to.

Nothing can stand in his way, but then he finds a stowaway on his ship.

Eleanor knows she’s nobody to write home about. She’s plain. Homely. A little boring. There’s nothing very special about her. She was training to be a teacher before she witnessed the murder of the town mayor. Now she’s on the run and the only person who can keep her safe is one the entire world has labeled a villain.

Oh yes, she’s heard all about the Dread Pirate Stone, but the stories have missed a couple of important details. The legends don’t talk about how stunning his deep green eyes are. They don’t talk about his long, wavy locks. The stories all missed the part about his steely abs or the fact that just one look from him is enough to make her knees quiver.

Nobody warned her about that.

Nobody would warn her that she might start to care about the man who could throw her out to sea – but doesn’t.

Soon their worlds are colliding in ways Eleanor never thought possible…

And she doesn’t know if she’s going to make it out alive.

Amazon Link

Goodreads Link

My Review –

I purchased this book.
I have to admit I love a good Sophie book. I love the worlds and the characters. When I grabbed this book, it was to read on vacation. I needed a shorter read for the drive. It was the perfect book!
The book starts right away with major drama. The dream pirate Smith is attaching her family boat. Eleanor escaped with the cook. He saved her and took her home to raise as his own with his wife. They loved Eleanor with all they had. When things go bad, Eleanor is on the run. She joins a pirate ship to escape and hide.
Pirate Stone is taken by the beautiful and PURE woman. He can’t say no to her and makes a very nice bargain for himself. Eleanor agrees as she has zero other opportunities. The first night with the two was a nice and delicious treat for more night ahead.
Stone is looking for his sister who was kidnapped by Pirate Smith. When he finds a witch to help him, parts of Eleanor’s past sneak up on her and I was like WHOOOOO! The twist of the book had my mouth wide open because you think you have part of it figured out and then NOPE you don’t!!
The story was a great read, and I would totally read more from them or even the crew members.

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Corrupted Innocence by Measha Stone

Synopsis-

He wouldn’t take my money. He wanted my innocence instead.

When Nikolai Romanov came looking for my brother, I emptied my savings hoping I could pay off his debt. But it wasn’t even close to enough, so Nikolai Romanov decided to take me instead.

I didn’t expect a Russian mafia boss like him to be gentle with me… and he wasn’t.

Not when he spanked me for daring to wear panties under the dress he chose for me, and certainly not when he stripped me out of that same dress and made me scream in his bed.

He told me I would be his for a month, but the way he looks at me says I’m his forever…

Amazon Link

Goodreads Link

My Review – 

I bought this audiobook.
OHH This book!! I have read one other book from Measha and it was hella dark so I felt this one was a light dark?? Is that a thing? LOL
Charlie’s DB brother, Oliver, ran into some trouble. That trouble was in the name of Nikolai. I gotta admit. I loved Nikolai when he was refusing to take Charlie’s money and well when he made the “deal”, I was a little excited for what would happen.
Nikolai and Charlie are both amazing characters. They both love their family and will do anything for them. I also loved how Charlie pushes Nikolai’s limits and sometimes it was a good result and other times it wasn’t so nice…or maybe it was?? LOL
As the story progressed seeing them two develop feelings and then of course have miscommunications. But I loved how possessive Nikolai was with her. I can’t wait to read more from the series.
The narration was great for the 2 characters. I enjoyed the life they brought to the characters and story.

#wotr24 #attendingauthor #review #mmromance #orcashifter #ottershifter #part1ofaseries –Black & White (ORCA 1) by: Vinni George

Nero Hunter is tired. He’s tired of early mornings chasing down skips. He’s tired of Shamu jokes and dealing with idiots. He’s tired of being alone. But agreeing to do one little favor for a friend turns the tide and brings Nero face-to-face with his destiny.

Felix White is unlucky. When his life is threatened and he’s hauled into police custody for safekeeping, the last thing he expects is to meet his fated mate. Especially when his mate is a giant killer whale shifter, who is also his new bodyguard.

But there is more to the plot against Felix than meets the eye, and Nero and his brothers have to work together to figure out who is after Felix before it’s too late…before Nero loses the mate he just found.

Black & White is book one in the Organization for the Return of Criminals and Assets (ORCA) series featuring an orca shifter art thief turned bounty hunter, a sea otter shifter hacker who might have pissed off the wrong people, and a group of orca brothers who will do anything—even if it’s not quite legal—to save the newest member of their family.

Goodreads

Amazon

Review by Twinsie Tenise

Nero and Felix– these 2 are opposite in every way shape and form. Literally. But fate gives zero Fs about that kind of thing. These 2 were fated mates and instead of insta-love, this was an insta-mate situation. I just loved how much Nero wanted to protect Felix from everything. They were perfect for one another. This book was so good. I loved meeting all of Nero’s Orca brothers; they are all amazing and made for an interesting cast of characters.
As with all of Vinni’s work, I went in blind. I was not expecting the suspense/thriller elements in the plot but I’m not complaining. If you’ve ever watched the police drama, White Collar, it gave off those vibes for me. I’m hooked as I know there is a whole lot more to the mystery within the story. ORCA is on the case though and I seriously cannot wait for the next book in the series. I have a feeling it’s going to be fire!

Vinni George has been a lover of romance novels (of all shapes, sizes, and colors) since she first got her hands on one of her grandmother’s Harlequins and has never looked back. She lives in Ohio with her two favorite guys (her husband and son) and, hopefully—one day—a dog. When she’s not writing, Vinni can be found working for her family’s business, which provides plenty of plot bunnies. In her spare time, Vinni is a soccer mom who dabbles in performance art, quilting, and various culinary pursuits and enjoys traveling.

Vinni’s debut novel, Hold the Door, was a finalist and runner-up in Contemporary Gay Romance in the 2020-2021 Rainbow Awards.

Celebrating Pride Month with Persephone Black #authorspotlight #sapphicromance #mafia

Hello, and thanks for being here to Celebrate Pride Month with Twinsie Talk. I’m Twinsie Tenise, self proclaimed resident MM reader and reviewer over here at TwinsieTalk. Throughout the Month of June we will be sharing Q&A sessions we had with over a dozen authors who write LGBTQIA Romance or books with LGBTQIA characters. Each day will Spotlight a different author. We hope you enjoy getting to know these wonderful authors and find lots of new books to fill your TBR.
Special thanks to all of the authors who signed up and took the time to answer the questions.
Shoutout and HUGE thank you to Twinsie Jo for the amazing rainbow graphics and Twinsie Angie for her input and assistance. Love you both!
Today we are celebrating pride month with sapphic romance author Persephone Black.
I just discovered her work this year and I am addicted. Her Heroines are powerful and sexy af. I’m in love with her female Mafia series.


Persephone Black likes Ice Queens who melt behind closed doors, Underworld Empresses who protect what’s theirs, and Bad Girls who stay bad to the end…but win the love of a good woman.

If that sounds enticing to you too, you should read her books. Villains are (anti)heroines and danger is an aphrodisiac in Persephone Black’s thrilling Sapphic Mafia romance novels.

🏳️‍🌈What’s your name and a little about you?
Persephone Black – you can call me Persy if you like. I like Ice Queens who melt behind closed doors, Underworld Empresses who protect what’s theirs, and Bad Girls who stay bad to the end…but win the love of a good woman. 🖤
🏳️‍🌈What made you decide to write LGBTQIA romance?
I love Sapphic romance and I wanted to contribute.
🏳️‍🌈Do you prefer to write standalones or series? Why?
I write duets, which feel like the best of both standalones and series – you can have fun cameos and catch up with previous characters, and you get an in-depth story told in a limited number of books.
🏳️‍🌈Do you have a current WIP? Care to share any details?
I’m currently writing the follow up to the Underworld Duet. In this book, Lyssa gets her story and she’s so much fun to write. She’s a badass assassin and cold-hearted mercenary, so it comes as a total shock to her when she catches feelings.
🏳️‍🌈What are your must have writing snacks and drinks?
Coffee, coffee, more coffee (aka Writer Fuel). When I’m editing, chocolate. So. Much. Chocolate.
🏳️‍🌈If someone has never read your work, which book would you recommend?
Either Her Mafia Bride, which is about an arranged marriage between the heiress to a criminal empire and the daughter of an Irish mob boss, or Captive of the Crime Queen, which is an abduction romance and a contemporary mafia romance retelling of Hades and Persephone.
🏳️‍🌈If you could recommend 1 LGBTQIA Romance (not your own) to readers, what would that book be?
I’m really into mystery and suspense at the moment, so I’d recommend Cara Malone’s Foxy County Forensics series, which has some amazing characters, great romance, and is just really fun to read. The newest one just came out at the time of writing – Guardian Angel.
🏳️‍🌈What do you enjoy doing in your free time?
Suffer my way to the bitter end of The Walking Dead franchise spinoffs, and hang out with my besties (who don’t get to see much of me when I’m in my writing cave).
🏳️‍🌈Anything else you would like to add?
I’d just like to say thank you to the Sapphic bookish community for how incredibly welcoming and supportive they are. I’m relatively new to publishing in this space and everyone has been unfailingly kind and wonderful, from fellow authors to readers to reviewers. I felt instantly included, and I’m looking forward to contributing lots more books to the community! 🖤


Amazon


Goodreads

My 5 star review for Her Mafia Queen


https://www.persephone-black.com    https://www.instagram.com/authorpersephoneblack/   https://www.facebook.com/authorpersephoneblack

#WOTR24 #ReleaseDay #NewRelease #Hockey #PlusSizedWoman – Cash, Glendale Magic #2 by Mary Warren

Evie Masterson is a plus size figure skater and a disappointment to her family. She was supposed to marry her college boyfriend and settle into the life that had been laid out for her, but none of that had ever interested her. She had never been one to simply do as she was told. So she cut her own path. She started teaching skating classes, and now she even coaches competitive skaters. She had been pretty happy with where her chosen path had led her… that is until it leads her into the bed of hockey’s biggest playboy for a one night stand.

Cash Hawthorn is the bad boy of the Glendale Magic. He plays the game he loves and he has a different woman on his arm every night. He loves his life and can’t envision any part of it changing. So what business does a one night stand have in making him, for the first time in his life, want to come back for more?

After their one night stand, they find themselves in close quarters when Cash volunteers to help with the hockey camp where Evie teaches. And if that weren’t enough, somehow he ends up being her ‘fake’ date to her sister’s wedding. Everything could change all because of a one night stand…

Goodreads

Amazon

Review by Twinsie Angie

I was given this book by the author for an honest review.

I met Cash and Evie in book 1 and so ready/excited for their story.  They had a lot of great banter which is always a great start to a story.  I liked the introduction to the story and their “Meet Cute” part of the story.  We jump right into the night when Cash and Evie “get to know each other”.  It was steamy and a great start to the story. *wink*

As the story progressed there were parts when I felt like Evie was over dramatic IE Blocking Cash’s phone numbers.  I also felt like Cash was a bit disrespectful of Evie’s time at hockey camp IE never telling HER why he was a no show but telling everyone else.  So there seemed to be a lot of miscommunications in the story between the characters.  The push and pull seemed to be a lot and it got redundant at times.  It was like 2 steps forward and then 3 back.

I did enjoy the times when the characters were fully open with each other.  I enjoyed how Cash helped her and supported her with her overbearing mother.  I enjoyed how Evie found her spine in dealing with allllll that drama from her past.

I enjoyed hanging out with Conner and Sasha again in the story.  Reliving the drinking scene was hilarious even from a new POV.  However, meeting Trevor was a blast.  His lunch with Cash was a fun read.

Mary Warren lives in Illinois with her family. When she’s not writing stories of fat women, she’s reading them and advocating for better fat representation. Mary founded Fat Girls in Fiction, pointing out positive fat representation for femmes and non-binary people in books. This project became a community and is something she is immensely proud of and happy to be working on.

#review #sapphicromance #duet Her Mafia Bride (Bianchi Family #1) by: Persephone Black

Juno Bianchi: Ruthless. Deadly. Glacial.
And oh, she makes me burn.

When my Mob Boss father forces me into an arranged marriage with the billionaire heiress to the Bianchi Family, everything changes.

At first I resent being treated like a bargaining chip, but Juno captivates me in ways I’ve never known. Her Ice Queen facade hides a simmering volcano just waiting to be unleashed, and her commanding touch sets my body on fire.

But loving Juno could destroy me…

There are people out there who are just as dangerous as she is, and they won’t hesitate to use me to get to her.

With enemies closing in around us, can I trust my Mafia bride to keep me safe?

***

Opposites attract in this enemies to lovers romance as the reckless street-racing daughter of an Irish Mob Boss finds a way to defrost her Mafia Ice Queen wife.

This is a steamy F/F Mafia romance with some dark elements and a lot of angst. Content notes are available on the Copyright page.

Goodreads

Amazon

Review by Twinsie Tenise

Juno’s father has arranged for a marriage between his Juno and Caitlin the daughter of the head of the Irish family.
Caitlin is recklessly drifting trough life with zero fs given for her own personal safety at times but she is good at what she does and she’s making bank winning these races. Now she finds out that is all over because her father has arranged for her to marry Juno.
This is going to be terrible for Caitlin as she is such a free spirit. With no other choice– she marries Juno– but adamantly refuses to submit to the Crime Queen.
Junos main focus is family. As such when she is told she must marry Caitlin FOR the family, no matter what, she knows she must do this. After all it is for the family.

Neither woman can deny the chemistry that builds to a fever pitch during their honeymoon. Juno convinces herself that she needs to get the woman out of her system while Caitlins vow to not submit seems to wane a bit the more they get to know one another. Things aren’t meant to stay this way though, it’s the honeymoon after all. Just the 2 of them with no distractions, what happens when they return to the real world is the real test…
At home things happen that change the game for both women. But in this world nothing lasts forever and it’s best to never develop feelings for another as love can make you weak and theres no room for the weak in the violent world of crime. Juno has an empire to run and has vowed to keep Caitlin safe. Even if it is at the expense of her own heart.
This book had me on the edge of my seat and don’t even get me started on the perfection of that ending. I know, some will argue with me on that but I love a good cliffy and this book did not disappoint. It’s been 2 weeks since I finished Her Mafia Bride and I’ve yet to start another. I’m ready for book 2 now so I’m off to finally start it after this extremely long hiatus.

Persephone Black likes Ice Queens who melt behind closed doors, Underworld Empresses who protect what’s theirs, and Bad Girls who stay bad to the end…but win the love of a good woman.

If that sounds enticing to you too, you should read her books. Villains are (anti)heroines and danger is an aphrodisiac in Persephone Black’s thrilling Sapphic Mafia romance novels.

We are THE TWINSIES… We love to read…We love to promote the authors we read… and we love to stir up TROUBLE… It's who we are and what we do