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mags_louise's reviews
3693 reviews
Secrets We Fight by Kimberly Knight, Rachel Lyn Adams
emotional
lighthearted
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? No
4.0
Secrets we Fight is a forbidden MM romance featuring secret service agent Rhett Davis. Who as a dedicated agent hopes to finally land a spot on President Donnelly's detail.
But unfortunately for him Rhett is assigned to protect one of the triplets. The gorgeous, openly gay Fallon.
Who can't help but notice how stunning Rhett is and as Rhett is the guy assigned to be at his side Fallon can't help but flirt a little.
And no matter how hard Rhett tries he can't stop himself from responding. Even though he knows the risks are catastrophic. If they push the boundaries from flirting to f***ing.
Yet, the more time they spend together the bigger the pull and they soon find themselves embarking on a relationship that has to stay secret.
However, Fallon's identical brother Finn has a secret too. One that is about to blow Rhett and Fallon's secret out of the water and change their lives forever.
And with a few spicy moments and a little danger. This was an enjoyable read. But honestly I didn't really feel the chemistry between Rhett and Fallon and I found the 'Baby Boy' nickname a little cringey.
But unfortunately for him Rhett is assigned to protect one of the triplets. The gorgeous, openly gay Fallon.
Who can't help but notice how stunning Rhett is and as Rhett is the guy assigned to be at his side Fallon can't help but flirt a little.
And no matter how hard Rhett tries he can't stop himself from responding. Even though he knows the risks are catastrophic. If they push the boundaries from flirting to f***ing.
Yet, the more time they spend together the bigger the pull and they soon find themselves embarking on a relationship that has to stay secret.
However, Fallon's identical brother Finn has a secret too. One that is about to blow Rhett and Fallon's secret out of the water and change their lives forever.
And with a few spicy moments and a little danger. This was an enjoyable read. But honestly I didn't really feel the chemistry between Rhett and Fallon and I found the 'Baby Boy' nickname a little cringey.
Making A Killing by Cara Hunter
adventurous
dark
mysterious
tense
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? It's complicated
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated
4.5
Making a Killing takes readers back to 2016 and the first case in 'Close to Home' where then Detective Inspector Adam Fawley investigated the presumed killing of 8-year-old Daisy Mason. Whose mum, Sharon, was convicted of her murder and sentenced to life in prison. Even though Daisy's body was never recovered.
But Adam is sure justice had been done and they had caught and charged the right person.
However, fast forward eight years, and journalist Nick Vincent, host of a true crime show, has received some interesting evidence that could prove Sharon is innocent, and his team are now desperately trying to verify if that's true.
Meanwhile, in the Cotswolds, a body is discovered by a woman walking her dog and forensic evidence links it back to Daisy, which prompts a collaboration between two police forces as they work fervently to piece together the mystery.
Leaving DCI Adam Fawley and his team with the daunting task of revisiting the case and unravelling the intricate layers surrounding Daisy's disappearance. In order to finally uncover what truly happened to Daisy Mason.
And with an interesting protagonist in Adam Fawley. Not to mention a story that is dark, twisted, perplexing, nicely paced and creatively told through mixed media. This was a brilliant read and introduction to a series I can't wait to read more from, and I will definitely be reading Close to Home over the next couple of months!!
But Adam is sure justice had been done and they had caught and charged the right person.
However, fast forward eight years, and journalist Nick Vincent, host of a true crime show, has received some interesting evidence that could prove Sharon is innocent, and his team are now desperately trying to verify if that's true.
Meanwhile, in the Cotswolds, a body is discovered by a woman walking her dog and forensic evidence links it back to Daisy, which prompts a collaboration between two police forces as they work fervently to piece together the mystery.
Leaving DCI Adam Fawley and his team with the daunting task of revisiting the case and unravelling the intricate layers surrounding Daisy's disappearance. In order to finally uncover what truly happened to Daisy Mason.
And with an interesting protagonist in Adam Fawley. Not to mention a story that is dark, twisted, perplexing, nicely paced and creatively told through mixed media. This was a brilliant read and introduction to a series I can't wait to read more from, and I will definitely be reading Close to Home over the next couple of months!!
What About Now? by Kaylee Ryan
emotional
funny
hopeful
inspiring
lighthearted
reflective
sad
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.5
Kaylee Ryan returns readers to small-town Tennessee and the guys of Everlasting Ink. For a slow-burn romance that ignites emotions, draws you in, and never lets you go.
As Maddox and his friends travel to Las Vegas for Briar and Forrest’s wedding. But things take an unexpected turn when Brogan wakes up to find herself married to Maddox. While Maddox is thrilled, Brogan is panicked and wants to get an annulment right away.
But Maddox has had his eyes on Brogan since the first moment he saw her, and he’s ready to fight for her heart. Instead of rushing to annul the marriage, he proposes a plan: they will live together as a married couple for six months and go on dates, hoping that Brogan will eventually fall in love with him. However, Brogan has her own emotional barriers and finds it hard to trust.
Yet, Maddox is determined and knows that building a relationship takes effort, so he’s willing to show Brogan that he is the man for her.
And with a heartfelt romance, spicy moments, and a true sense of family among the friends. This was a beautiful read. That also emphasizes the importance of therapy and mental health, which is a refreshing touch.
I would highly recommend What About Now to anyone looking for a charming love story! ☺️
As Maddox and his friends travel to Las Vegas for Briar and Forrest’s wedding. But things take an unexpected turn when Brogan wakes up to find herself married to Maddox. While Maddox is thrilled, Brogan is panicked and wants to get an annulment right away.
But Maddox has had his eyes on Brogan since the first moment he saw her, and he’s ready to fight for her heart. Instead of rushing to annul the marriage, he proposes a plan: they will live together as a married couple for six months and go on dates, hoping that Brogan will eventually fall in love with him. However, Brogan has her own emotional barriers and finds it hard to trust.
Yet, Maddox is determined and knows that building a relationship takes effort, so he’s willing to show Brogan that he is the man for her.
And with a heartfelt romance, spicy moments, and a true sense of family among the friends. This was a beautiful read. That also emphasizes the importance of therapy and mental health, which is a refreshing touch.
I would highly recommend What About Now to anyone looking for a charming love story! ☺️
His Reluctant Savior by Courtney W. Dixon
adventurous
dark
emotional
funny
mysterious
tense
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.5
His Reluctant Savior, the third book in the District series, is my first introduction to the characters and author. But based on this story, it won't be my last.
As this was a story that captivated me, and saw paid assassin Sid given the file of his next target. Who just happens to be betrayed FBI analyst Dalton. Someone Sid once knew well and who Sid is determined to protect instead of kill. Even at the risk of betraying his family and those who trust him.
But Sid has good reason for making his choice, not least because he once harboured feelings for Dalton, and he's determined to keep him and his son Owen safe. Regardless of the consequences.
And when he lays eyes on Dalton, all those old feelings come flooding back, and Sid is determined that he is never letting Dalton go.
That is if they can survive long enough to have a happy ending.
And with a great deal of humour and banter. Not to mention the perfect balance of tension, drama, action, and spice. This was a story I found hard to put down, and I particularly loved the development of the romance between Sid and Dalton. Which felt completely natural considering the predicament they found themselves in.
I would happily recommend His Reluctant Savior to all, and I will definitely be picking up the first two books in the series after reading this ☺️
As this was a story that captivated me, and saw paid assassin Sid given the file of his next target. Who just happens to be betrayed FBI analyst Dalton. Someone Sid once knew well and who Sid is determined to protect instead of kill. Even at the risk of betraying his family and those who trust him.
But Sid has good reason for making his choice, not least because he once harboured feelings for Dalton, and he's determined to keep him and his son Owen safe. Regardless of the consequences.
And when he lays eyes on Dalton, all those old feelings come flooding back, and Sid is determined that he is never letting Dalton go.
That is if they can survive long enough to have a happy ending.
And with a great deal of humour and banter. Not to mention the perfect balance of tension, drama, action, and spice. This was a story I found hard to put down, and I particularly loved the development of the romance between Sid and Dalton. Which felt completely natural considering the predicament they found themselves in.
I would happily recommend His Reluctant Savior to all, and I will definitely be picking up the first two books in the series after reading this ☺️
Their dying embrace by Helen Phifer
adventurous
dark
mysterious
tense
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated
5.0
In Their Dying Embrace, Detective Morgan Brookes embarks on one of her most challenging cases yet. Just as she and her boyfriend, Detective Sergeant Ben Matthews, are about to enjoy a well-deserved day off, their plans are interrupted by Amber a police constable seeking their urgent help with a shocking murder at a nearby residence. Whereupon their arrival, they discover the bodies of teaching assistant Rosie and her boyfriend, Matt, brutally killed and disturbingly staged with a distinctive calling card.
As the investigation progresses, Ben and Morgan are determined to uncover the motive behind these tragic deaths. They begin to piece together clues, such as a friend of Rosie’s mentioning strange noises coming from the loft and a disturbing note found by Morgan, indicating that they might have been under surveillance.
However, the case takes a heart-wrenching turn when they learn that a close friend has been attacked and critically injured, complicating their search for answers and raising the emotional stakes for both detectives.
But nothing is going to stop Morgan, Ben and the team from connecting the dots between their friend's attack and the murders and putting this killer behind bars where they belong.
And with its engaging storyline, unexpected twists and suspenseful moments, "Their Dying Embrace" highlights Helen Phifer at her best, skillfully keeping readers on the edge until the very last moment.
I would happily recommend it to anyone in search of an enthralling mystery.
As the investigation progresses, Ben and Morgan are determined to uncover the motive behind these tragic deaths. They begin to piece together clues, such as a friend of Rosie’s mentioning strange noises coming from the loft and a disturbing note found by Morgan, indicating that they might have been under surveillance.
However, the case takes a heart-wrenching turn when they learn that a close friend has been attacked and critically injured, complicating their search for answers and raising the emotional stakes for both detectives.
But nothing is going to stop Morgan, Ben and the team from connecting the dots between their friend's attack and the murders and putting this killer behind bars where they belong.
And with its engaging storyline, unexpected twists and suspenseful moments, "Their Dying Embrace" highlights Helen Phifer at her best, skillfully keeping readers on the edge until the very last moment.
I would happily recommend it to anyone in search of an enthralling mystery.
Scout by Samantha A. Cole
lighthearted
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Plot
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? It's complicated
- Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated
4.0
Scout is a short, sweet, and satisfying mm romance. That has a little spice. But it definitely left me wanting more. Just because I really liked the characters and felt there was so much potential for them.
But it was the perfect read for the time I had and I loved how drawn Alex and Scout were to each other and how well the romance developed given its short length.
But it was the perfect read for the time I had and I loved how drawn Alex and Scout were to each other and how well the romance developed given its short length.
Bodyman by Lucy Lennox
emotional
hopeful
lighthearted
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? It's complicated
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? No
4.0
This was an enjoyable novella. With a couple of spicy moments and great character development, and whilst I wish it was full length, I did enjoy everything about it. Not least of all the distraction it gave me for the half an hour or so it took to read.
Taste of Surrender by Kimberly Knight
emotional
funny
hopeful
inspiring
sad
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.5
I couldn't stop reading Taste of Surrender. I love forbidden romances, and this one hit all the right spots.
As Jasper has a crush on his brother Jesse's best friend Malachi.
Who everyone, including Jasper and Jesse, believes is straight. But Malachi has a secret he hasn't shared with anyone. He is actually bisexual and although known as a ladies man. His thoughts are constantly focused on his best friend's younger brother.
And when he finally gets his chance to kiss Jasper, he does, and a secret, forbidden romance ensues.
However, Malachi is in a band with Jesse and two other friends and Jesse has this big idea to get them seen by entering a competition in LA which if they win will launch their careers.
And it works.
Which means Malachi and Jasper have to say goodbye for good.
However, Malachi hopes that once the competition is over, they can find their way back together. But Jasper knows that will never happen, so he leaves for culinary school in Paris and tries to avoid all mentions of Malachi for the next three years.
Which he does until Jesse calls inviting Jasper to join the band on tour, and all those old feelings are reignited.
But how are Jasper and Malachi supposed to have a real relationship when they are sneaking around all the time and not being truthful with the people they love?
And with plenty of spicy moments, angst, and really likeable characters. This story was a truly enjoyable read. That I couldn't put down and one I would happily recommend to all.
As Jasper has a crush on his brother Jesse's best friend Malachi.
Who everyone, including Jasper and Jesse, believes is straight. But Malachi has a secret he hasn't shared with anyone. He is actually bisexual and although known as a ladies man. His thoughts are constantly focused on his best friend's younger brother.
And when he finally gets his chance to kiss Jasper, he does, and a secret, forbidden romance ensues.
However, Malachi is in a band with Jesse and two other friends and Jesse has this big idea to get them seen by entering a competition in LA which if they win will launch their careers.
And it works.
Which means Malachi and Jasper have to say goodbye for good.
However, Malachi hopes that once the competition is over, they can find their way back together. But Jasper knows that will never happen, so he leaves for culinary school in Paris and tries to avoid all mentions of Malachi for the next three years.
Which he does until Jesse calls inviting Jasper to join the band on tour, and all those old feelings are reignited.
But how are Jasper and Malachi supposed to have a real relationship when they are sneaking around all the time and not being truthful with the people they love?
And with plenty of spicy moments, angst, and really likeable characters. This story was a truly enjoyable read. That I couldn't put down and one I would happily recommend to all.
Two Broken Girls by Helen Phifer
dark
mysterious
tense
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.5
Detective Morgan Brookes is back in another delightfully gripping story. That sees Morgan and the team investigate the horrific murder of student Melody Carrick.
Whose mum Jade owns the local coffee shop. Which is a firm favourite with the team, especially Morgan. And leaves her desperate to get answers for Jade and find her daughter's killer.
So when a young girl enters the station hours later and claims to know the killer, Morgan jumps at the opportunity to investigate. However, Ben is not convinced that Paige is telling the truth.
And as Morgan races to catch up with Paige and interview her mother, she nearly runs over another young girl. One who is clearly terrified and claims to have been abducted and later dumped by a man driving a vehicle similar to that of Morgan's witness.
Which makes Morgan's search for the man Paige claims is the killer even more intense.
But is Paige really telling the truth? Or is the team looking in the wrong direction?
And with plenty of twists and turns, and a killer I did not see coming. This was another fantastic addition to the series, and I'm excited to read book fourteen next.
My thanks to Bookouture and NetGalley for the opportunity to read Two Broken Girls.
Whose mum Jade owns the local coffee shop. Which is a firm favourite with the team, especially Morgan. And leaves her desperate to get answers for Jade and find her daughter's killer.
So when a young girl enters the station hours later and claims to know the killer, Morgan jumps at the opportunity to investigate. However, Ben is not convinced that Paige is telling the truth.
And as Morgan races to catch up with Paige and interview her mother, she nearly runs over another young girl. One who is clearly terrified and claims to have been abducted and later dumped by a man driving a vehicle similar to that of Morgan's witness.
Which makes Morgan's search for the man Paige claims is the killer even more intense.
But is Paige really telling the truth? Or is the team looking in the wrong direction?
And with plenty of twists and turns, and a killer I did not see coming. This was another fantastic addition to the series, and I'm excited to read book fourteen next.
My thanks to Bookouture and NetGalley for the opportunity to read Two Broken Girls.
Protecting the Witness by Kimberly Knight
adventurous
lighthearted
mysterious
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated
4.25
Protecting the Witness is a suspenseful mm romance. That sees Boston narcotics detective Courtland Wilder go undercover as a bouncer in a strip club in order to catch the owner Donnie dealing and supplying drugs.
The owner who is currently dating influencer Morgan in order to move his product and is not only keeping his drug supply business from her but the fact he has a connection to a man who kidnapped the son of a close family friend. Who also happens to be the President of the United States.
So Court is determined to take Donnie down and stop a drug ring in its tracks when he learns Morgan's brother Ryan is single. He realises he can use that to his advantage.
Only he doesn't count on Ryan being so amazing and as the case unfolds and danger strikes Court has to decide what's more important taking Donnie down or protecting the man he's starting to fall in love with.
And with spicy moments, suspense, and a little danger. This was an enjoyable and engaging read. But it was a missing a little something overall for me to really devour it.
I would though happily recommend it to others and am keen to check out the other stories in this series.
The owner who is currently dating influencer Morgan in order to move his product and is not only keeping his drug supply business from her but the fact he has a connection to a man who kidnapped the son of a close family friend. Who also happens to be the President of the United States.
So Court is determined to take Donnie down and stop a drug ring in its tracks when he learns Morgan's brother Ryan is single. He realises he can use that to his advantage.
Only he doesn't count on Ryan being so amazing and as the case unfolds and danger strikes Court has to decide what's more important taking Donnie down or protecting the man he's starting to fall in love with.
And with spicy moments, suspense, and a little danger. This was an enjoyable and engaging read. But it was a missing a little something overall for me to really devour it.
I would though happily recommend it to others and am keen to check out the other stories in this series.