Author: Jen (Page 36 of 204)

I ♥ Paranormal, Dystopian, Romance, YA, NA & some Fantasy and Science Fiction. I ♥ not being able to knock that darn smirk off my face, crying my eyes out or feeling every emotion under the sun with characters. I ♥ cheesecake, wakeboarding, snowboarding, being a mommy & wife, dancing, singing and being a beach bum addict!
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BOOK REVIEW: Two Wrongs Make a Right (The Wilmot Sisters #1) by Chloe Liese

BOOK REVIEW: Two Wrongs Make a Right (The Wilmot Sisters #1) by Chloe LieseTwo Wrongs Make a Right (The Wilmot Sisters #1)
by Chloe Liese
Purchase on: AmazoniBooks
Add to: Goodreads

Synopsis:

Opposites become allies to fool their matchmaking friends in this swoony reimagining of Shakespeare’s beloved comedy, Much Ado About Nothing.
 
Jamie Westenberg and Bea Wilmot have nothing in common except a meet-disaster and the mutual understanding that they couldn't be more wrong for each other. But when the people closest to them play Cupid and trick them into going on a date, Jamie and Bea realize they have something else in common after all—an undeniable need for revenge.
 
Soon their plan is in place: Fake date obnoxiously and convince the meddlers they’re madly in love. Then, break up spectacularly and dash everyone's hopes, putting an end to the matchmaking madness once and for all.
 
To convince everyone that they’ve fallen for each other, Jamie and Bea will have to nail the performance of their lives. But as their final act nears and playing lovers becomes easier than not, they begin to wonder: What if Cupid’s arrow wasn’t so off the mark? And what if two wrongs do make a right?

Review:

It’s a text. Just a text.
But it feels like so much more.

With humor, romance and heart, Two Wrongs Make a Right was so easy to love! Enemies to lovers was mixed with fake dating, and it played out beautifully! The characters were vivid and ones that you will be rooting for, the story-line was so much fun and I left this book knowing I had to read all of Chloe Liese’s books!

He grins. A crooked, soft Jamie grin that once again fills my heart to a shimmering, golden pop. “I have a feeling you’re going to be a bad influence, Beatrice.”
“Ah, James,” I tell him through the buttercream sweetness lighting up my tongue. “Now you’re catching on.”

Beatrice Wilmot aka Bea and Jamie Westenberg didn’t get off on the right foot. They rubbed each other the wrong way and Bea had no problem slaying Jamie with her words. It didn’t matter that something was there and that the chemistry could be felt. That first impression did them in. But when their friends wouldn’t give up and set them up on a blind date, that was when they realized they could finally agree on something. Revenge. So what’s a little fake dating to trick their friends into thinking they did what was best, and then breaking up once their friends were truly invested. It was a solid plan, yet feelings don’t always seem to go the way you want them to.

Holding me close. He turns his face so slightly, until his mouth brushes the shell of my ear.
And for a moment, I forget why this is happening.

I adored Bea! I loved listening to her thoughts and watching how she saw the world. She was an artist who had a twin sister and a wonderful group of friends. She claimed they were her sister’s friends, but you could tell they loved her just as much too! And I loved how much fire Bea had in her! Her words and even her flying carrots had me cracking up! Ohhhh and her second hand embarrassment was all of mine too.

Being in a fake relationship isn’t supposed to be complicated. Kissing isn’t supposed to make me think foolish, ridiculous thoughts about Bea actually wanting me when she kissed me, too. This situation is terrifyingly beyond me.

Through Bea’s eyes, Jamie came off as so cold. But we also got chapters in his voice and Jamie was definitely one of the good guys! He could be so thoughtful and sensitive, it was heart melting. As we spent more time with him, you realize that there was a whole lot more going on with Jamie then meets the eye. Anxiety clung to him at times. That representation was so relatable to me, so Jamie was so easy to click with and love.

You’re the best thing in my life, I want to tell her. You’re safe and real and perfectly imperfect . We started as a lie, and now we’re the truest thing I’ve ever known.
But I don’t say it, don’t speak those fragile words into the delicate space between us.

Bea and Jamie fought and bantered so fabulously! Yet they both had a lot more in common than they thought. They had been burned in the past and hearts will hurt listening to their stories. So they both lied to themselves for how felt towards the other, even though they wanted each other! I loved watching how they both surprised one other with kindness, insight, understanding, and generosity. It was impossible for them not to become friends with the path they were going down. Especially when you have to tell each other personal stuff. True boyfriends and girlfriends would talk about that right?! *smirks* Eeps, their fake dating was a ton of fun. And when emotions got involved it was difficult not to be giddy!

“My fake boyfriend isn’t supposed to ruin me for everyone else,” I whisper.
Jamie’s eyes fall shut as he drops his forehead to mine.  “Sometimes, Beatrice, I want to ruin you for everyone else.”

With friendships that were strong and beautiful, self-doubt, pushing the line and fabulous date nights, this book was so much fun! There were sentimental moments that made tears gather in my eyes, and steamy moments that fit so well together. And even watching wrong choices being made, I was cheering them on! Two Wrongs Make a Right was lovable, entertaining and such a fabulous mix of enemies to lovers and fake dating!

*I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book, provided by the publisher. All thoughts and opinions are my own.*

BOOK REVIEW: Caribbean Competitors (Simona Island #2) by Poppy Minnix

BOOK REVIEW: Caribbean Competitors (Simona Island #2) by Poppy MinnixCaribbean Competitors (Simona Island #2)
by Poppy Minnix
Purchase on: AmazoniBooks
Add to: Goodreads

Synopsis:

Xiamara Nivar and Apollo Fischer had the perfect childhood friendship, leading her to believe they’d transition to soulmate-status seamlessly. She couldn’t have been more wrong. When it came to a more-than-friends relationship, they were super cringe. No wonder Xia didn’t believe him when he promised to come back for her the night before he left for college. But still, she waited.

After seven years of foolishly hoping he’d keep his word, Xia has put all that behind her. She’s got a career, a cast of colorful comrades, and a competitive streak bigger than the Caribbean Ocean. Winning this year's Moss Monster Meet will be a cinch—until Apollo returns to the small island of Simona.

Not only is she a stumbling, stuttering, shipwreck of a human whenever he’s present, but the unthinkable has happened. Apollo plans to compete in the race, threatening the three-year winning streak that will earn her the coveted title of Moss Boss.

When they are thrust together, Xia can’t maintain her composure—and Apollo knows it. He isn’t above using it against her, either. With the finish line in sight, Xia has one burning question: is it the race Apollo wants to win, or her heart?

Review:

“I’ve always got you.”

Caribbean Competitors was steamy, smile inducing and so much fun!  This book is at the very top of my favorite contemporaries this year, sitting right in-between The Hating Game and The Love Hypothesis!  This book was pure gold and had it all!  Spicy romance?  Check!  Laugh out loud moments?  Check!  Characters that will become a part of your soul?  Do I even need to say check?!  This truly had it all.  If you want a book that is impossible to put down and will feel as though one of your favorite movies or shows is playing out in the pages of a book, then you need this story in your life!  This is one I’ll definitely be re-reading again and again!

I exhale and shake my head. Moss Monster Meet. Training. Work. This is my life.

I truly don’t know who I loved more, Xiamara or Apollo.  Xiamara lived on Simona Island where she had family, friends and a job she loved.  Apollo’s family and friends were there too, but he had been in New York for the last 7 years.  They were bestest of friends in their younger years, but when they tried to move their friendship to more, it didn’t work.  Apollo promised to come back to Xiamara when he left, but never did.  So when Xiamara saw Apollo back on the island, and joining in the Moss Monster Meet that was her blood, sweat and tears, oh my heart I felt for her.  But fate has a funny way of working out, and Xiamara and Apollo’s paths were filled with lots of fun and heat!

He dips his head until his lips brush my ear. “You’ve changed.” His statement is a rugged rasp that’s deep enough to penetrate my spine and send a purr through each cell of my body.

Xiamara, aka Xia, was hilarious and someone that you could easily see yourself being best friends with.  Her thoughts were so much fun, her feelings become my own and I loved how she could be a tiny bit dramatic at times.  Hiding out and sneaking around, just try and not smile lol.  I also loved how passionate she was with her job, and it was so easy to fall in love with the gorgeous small community she lived in.  Yet that community provided no privacy.  And Xia was a little nervous about what other people thought with Apollo being back.  They all knew their history.  So when rules chandged and it pushed Xia and Apollo back together, I was so giddy and excited.  The chemistry and tension between them was delicious and I couldn’t get enough of it!

“Where do you go, Xia?” His lips twist, boyishness gone, curious adult gaze in full scrutiny. “When you look at me like that?”
Biting my lip, I pull the rings from my fingers. “Nowhere.”

I wanted to be unsure of Apollo, but that was beyond impossible.  He had so much charisma, that he easily swept me under his spell.    He was charming, seductive, thoughtful, funny and seemed definitely interested in Xia.  His little comments like it’s a date, for meeting up to train for the Moss Monster Meet had me squealing in excitement!  I loved how he played her little games and how they both messed with the other.  But most of all I loved how Apollo made Xia nervous.  Xia was always so put together and Apollo emotionally and physically made her stumble.  His presence alone impacted her time and again.  As the story unfolded, he showed us his protective side, and there was no way to not be obsessed with Apollo!

One of his last posts is a picture out the airplane window with the caption, “I’ll miss you, New York, but I miss her so much more.”
My heart thrums a wicked beat as I stare at his words. Who is this her? A tiny, hopeful voice says, “Could be you,” but I smash that hope to dust because the notion is ludicrous.

As Xia and Apollo continued to train, there was so much sexual tension.  And even when Apollo seemed to be giving Xia all the signs he was interested, she didn’t grasp it.  He was leaving in a bit, right?  She didn’t want to get attached and hurt.  Again.  So we listened as Xia tried to lie to herself she didn’t want Apollo.  But it was impossible since so many of their moments together felt like more. Laced with longing and scorching hot looks or touches, Xia and Apollo were explosive together.  Their dancing scene, oh my gosh *fans face*.  And when they did cross the line to more, it was erotic, intoxicating and sensual.  Yet mistakes were made, by both of them.  And there was healing that needed to be done too.

There’s no future for us, so why is he torturing me with touches that no one else has ever come close to replicating?

I was beyond excited to see characters from the previous book, Holiday Hotel, but you don’t have to read that one first. Although I can’t recommend it enough!  Caribbean Competitors can easily be read as a standalone! Between the training for the upcoming event, the side characters that are heartwarming, and the main characters, I couldn’t stop smiling! With setups, secrets and emotions on the line, this book was so entertaining! Truths came out and I loved how the story unfolded! If you’re a fan of adult romance that is steamy and heartfelt, you definitely need this book on your tbr!

Apollo Fischer kisses me down to my soul.

PS I loved the chapter titles and serenity now reference lol!

He cups my face, studying me. I may just die of warm, gooey overload right here, right now.
He stays still as if asking a thousand questions I don’t have answers to, and my heart pangs, my eyes burn, and I spiral into a serious emotional overload.
“Don’t stop kissing me.” My voice is a thready, weak wisp.

PPS I can’t wait for the next book about Roxanne and Ziggy *fingers crossed*!

*I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book, provided by the author. All thoughts and opinions are my own.*

BOOK REVIEW: The Seashell of ‘Ohana (Spirit of ‘Ohana #2) by Mary Ting

BOOK REVIEW: The Seashell of ‘Ohana (Spirit of ‘Ohana #2) by Mary TingThe Seashell of 'Ohana (Spirit of 'Ohana #2)
by Mary Ting
Purchase on: AmazoniBooks
Add to: Goodreads

Synopsis:

Since Abby became a widow in her mid-twenties, she's spent the past four years raising her son and working long hours at the gallery she owns with her sister in Kauai. She doesn't have time for a social life, nor does she want one. Until the handsome Ian Bordonaro comes back to town.

When Abby finds out Ian is grieving the death of his mother, she feels an instant connection. She knows his pain too well, and not many in her life understand what she's been through. Their friendship grows, but a lingering sense of guilt prevents Abby from moving forward.

Will she surrender to grief and give up her second chance at happily ever after? Or will finding a rare angelwing shell intact on the beach be a sign it's time to open her heart again?

Review:

With fabulous characters, sentimental moments and so much heart, I loved this book!  The story played out like it was destined to be a Hallmark movie and I couldn’t put it down.  The Seashell of ‘Ohana was filled with family, friendship and so much love!  If you love sweet and sentimental adult romance, definitely put this one on your tbr!

In the darkness. Just the two of us under the gorgeous moonlit sky, I could paint this. This view. This moment. But this feeling … My heart hadn’t settled back after its leap into the stars, yet.

Abby was a widow who had moved to Hawaii to raise her son.  Working with her sister at their art studio, and being involved in her son’s life, was her whole world.  Yet that world also included Ian.  Ian was her sister’s boyfriend’s best friend.  And while the previous book was about Abby’s sister, and I can’t recommend Where the Wind Chimes enough, you can easily read this book as a standalone!  With a little help from her sister and friends, Abby and Ian found themselves together longer then a moment at the grocery store.  There was a definite spark between them, but Abby was conflicted about moving on. Thankfully Ian had nothing but patience and heart on his side.  So I kept my fingers crossed!

Abby: Thank you for the beautiful flowers. You didn’t have to do that.
I was going to put the phone down, but a text pinged.
Ian: I had to do something to bribe you to hold my hand during horseback riding.
I smiled and swiped my fingers fast over the letters.
Abby: No need to bribe.  That’s what friends do.
Ian: Then Lee is a terrible friend. He won’t hold my hand.
A small snicker squeaked out of me, and Liam turned to look. I sent a laughing emoji, and he sent me a heart one back.
I stared at the red beating heart a bit longer than necessary. 

Ian was my favorite! He was such a good man who was kind and thoughtful. And readers will melt watching how Ian included Tyler, Abby’s son, in the conversation. He made Tyler feel seen. Just like he did with Abby every time they were near each other. I knew that Ian was perfect for Abby. But at the same time, I was nervous for Abby. She was interested in Ian, but her heart still felt broken from the passing of her husband. Abby was loving, focused and I loved how involved she was with her son. Yet she was definitely guilty of putting her sons needs before hers. And I got it. But I was thankful when Ian would step in and show her it was okay to allow herself to find happy moments too, with things she wanted. They balanced one another out so well!

Swim? Before I could process his words, he hoisted me into his arms. I swallowed a breath and wrapped my arms around his neck as he ran toward the ocean.
“Ian!” I hollered.
Trust me.
I did trust him, so I stopped kicking and surrendered.

I loved Abby and Ian’s moments together. While Abby tried her best to keep Ian in the friend category, it was impossible to deny their chemistry. Yet, it felt like there was a much deeper level between them. As if they were destined for one another. And the HEA at the end of this book, swoon! It will leave readers happy! So with sentimental moments that will leave you smiling, a heartwarming sister relationship and gorgeous scenery, The Seashell of ‘Ohana was such a huge win! With a few tears, smile and laughter, this delightful romance was so easy to devour! Have fun getting lost in this sentimental Hallmark romance, when you pick this one up!

“I would wait a lifetime for you, Abby. My heart was an empty sky, but you gave me the moon and the stars. Steve was your first, but I want to be your last.”

*I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book, provided by the author. All thoughts and opinions are my own.*

 

BOOK REVIEW: Single and Ready to Jingle by Piper Rayne

BOOK REVIEW: Single and Ready to Jingle by Piper RayneSingle and Ready to Jingle Purchase on: AmazoniBooks
Add to: Goodreads

Synopsis:

The girl who loves Christmas falls for the Grinch—it’s a Christmas miracle.

What started as a dumpster fire of a blind date turns into a deal.

In truth, it probably didn’t help that I showed up dressed like an elf but that’s a story for another time. Our start was rocky at best which is why it’s so frustrating that I can’t stop thinking about his sexy British accent. Or the way his chest and arms fill out his suit. Or his perfect hair with that single streak of grey at the front.

Santa likes lists and so do I, so here’s all the reasons why Andrew and I aren’t right for each other:

He’s my brother’s best friend
He’s the biggest grump I’ve ever met.
He hates Christmas.

That last one is big for a girl like me who thinks that the entire month of December should be a national holiday. So, when he calls for my help in planning his firm’s holiday party, I can’t pass up the opportunity to grow my small business. Bonus, we make a deal, and he agrees to attend three holiday events with me so I can make him fall in love with Christmas. As if I’d pass up an opportunity to make a Grinch’s heart grow three times its size.

It isn’t long until I discover Andrew has a very real reason to hate Christmas and I start to see him in a different light. That’s when the Christmas miracle begins.

Review:

Single and Ready to Jingle was a heartwarming Christmas tale that will leave a smile on your face.  With an opposites attract, a teeny tiny smudge of an enemies to lovers and brothers best friend all rolled together, this book was so much fun!  The characters were easy to love, the story flowed seamlessly and the epilogue at the end had the most wonderful HEA!  If you’re looking for an adult Christmas book to pick up this season, definitely make for sure this one is on your list!

I love Christmas.
Like, love love Christmas.
Most Americans wait until after Thanksgiving to put up their Christmas decorations, but not me.  Mine go up the day after Halloween.

Kenzie was meeting a new date at a restaurant.  Not having time to change before going to the restaurant, she showed up wearing an elf costume since she owned her own event planning business.  The bells on her shoes were so fantastic lol.  Andrew, who was a lawyer, was having none of it.  He didn’t like Christmas or a grown woman looking like a cartoon character.  Andrew was cold, made her feel awful and I dubbed him as a conceited know it all!  So I was embarrassed right along with Kenzie.  She was so easy to love and her inner thoughts just make you click with her.  But at the same point, she cluelessly kept making their date worse.  I just wanted to hug her.  Learning that Andrew was Kenzie’s brother’s best friend felt like a broken star on her wilting Christmas tree.  They parted ways hoping to not run into one another again, yet that wasn’t exactly how it worked out!

Something about this woman’s smile is infectious. It almost pulls a smile of my own out, but I stifle the urge and school my features.

Andrew aka The Grinch, was a cynical, rude, anti-Christmas man when we first met him.  So when we alternated chapters and got to be in his head, I was shocked with his thoughts.  Mind blown *my lips are zipped why*!  When Andrew asked to meet Kenzie and said he recommended her for his law firm’s Christmas party, I was so excited for her opportunity!  Even if Andrew was using it as a way to get in good with one of his bosses, who he was hoping would help promote him.  But I will say, Andrew does need to be given some slack.  His past hurt ugh, he was jaded because of it.  I got why he acted the way he did.  But with Kenzie’s Christmas cheer, and her deal for Andrew to attend three holiday events with her, I just knew she would start knocking down his walls!

I quickly add myself as a contact and text myself so his number will be in my phone. When I hand it back to him, he glances at the screen.
“Mrs.  Claus?” he says in a wry voice.
I laugh. “Well, that’s why you want to  hire me, isn’t it? I love Christmas and you’re hoping for a miracle?”
He chuckles and shakes his head.

This story was so adorable!  I loved all of Andrew and Kenzie’s interactions and those three holiday events?!  My heart soared!  While they were opposites from one another, it was impossible not to smile when they spent time together.  I loved getting to see their different sides, since there was so much more then meets the eye.  Sprinkle that with cute little moments that made me laugh out loud, this book was such an easy win!  It was fun watching them grow and help each other, and the whole time I just wanted to shove them together.  It was a little bit of a slow burn, and as the story progressed there were some wonderful steamy scenes!  But they both had learning to do, and Kenzie and Adam pulled our hearts along for that sleigh ride!

I bring my hand to my chest in mock surprise. “Did you just make a joke?  I didn’t think you were capable.”
He rolls his eyes, and without another word, I turn and walk over to the counter to order his Americano  and my caramel macchiato.

Single and Ready to Jingle was a fabulous Christmas romance that brimmed with warmth, holiday cheer and so much joy! With ice skating, holiday cocktails, emotional families and snow falling, this book was so enjoyable!  I loved that Kenzie and Andrew were both flawed and relatable, I loved how much the side characters added and the HEA at the end perfectly closed their story.  I’m so glad I gave this book a try and now I can’t wait to go read Piper Rayne’s backlist!

My heart has been kick-started, it just has nothing to do with Christmas.

PS Kenzie’s shirts were amazing! 

*I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book, provided by the author. All thoughts and opinions are my own.*

 

 

Download today on Amazon, Apple Books, Audible, Barnes & Noble, Google Play, and Kobo!

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Narrated by John Lane & CJ Bloom

 

 

 

 

About Piper Rayne:

 

Piper Rayne is a USA Today Bestselling Author duo who write “heartwarming humor with a side of sizzle” about families, whether that be blood or found. They both have e-readers full of one-clickable books, they’re married to husbands who drive them to drink, and they’re both chauffeurs to their kids. Most of all, they love hot heroes and quirky heroines who make them laugh, and they hope you do, too!

 

Connect with Piper Rayne:

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BOOK REVIEW: A Light in the Flame (Flesh and Fire #2) by Jennifer L Armentrout

BOOK REVIEW: A Light in the Flame (Flesh and Fire #2) by Jennifer L ArmentroutA Light in the Flame (Flesh and Fire #2)
by Jennifer L. Armentrout
Purchase on: AmazoniBooks
Add to: Goodreads

Synopsis:

The only one who can save Sera now is the one she spent her life planning to kill.

The truth about Sera’s plan is out, shattering the fragile trust forged between her and Nyktos. Surrounded by those distrustful of her, all Sera has is her duty. She will do anything to end Kolis, the false King of Gods, and his tyrannical rule of Iliseeum, thus stopping the threat he poses to the mortal realm.

Nyktos has a plan, though, and as they work together, the last thing they need is the undeniable, scorching passion that continues to ignite between them. Sera cannot afford to fall for the tortured Primal, not when a life no longer bound to a destiny she never wanted is more attainable than ever. But memories of their shared pleasure and unrivaled desire are a siren’s call impossible to resist.

And as Sera begins to realize that she wants to be more than a Consort in name only, the danger surrounding them intensifies. The attacks on the Shadowlands are increasing, and when Kolis summons them to Court, a whole new risk becomes apparent. The Primal power of Life is growing inside her, pushing her closer to the end of her Culling. And without Nyktos’s love—an emotion he’s incapable of feeling—she won’t survive her Ascension. That is if she even makes it to her Ascension and Kolis doesn’t get to her first. Because time is running out. For both her and the realms.

Review:

A Light in the Flame was a mesmerizing, action packed ride!  As joy and heartache wove together as the story unfolded, this book was impossible to put down. So much was up in the air, feelings and motives were changing and as the world showed us even more with what was going on, this intricately plotted story was phenomenal!  It became an instant favorite and A Light in the Flame will easily sweep romance and fantasy lovers away!

“But what I can tell you is something you already know. What you’ve spent your life preparing to become? What I trained you for? It wasn’t a waste.” Those dark, shining eyes held mine. “You are his weakness.”

The story started off exactly where ASITE ended.  I was so nervous for Sera and Ash, especially with what we learned.  I feared for Sera’s future in many different ways.  But thankfully within those first few pages, we got to see their banter.  It was smile inducing, irresistible, and much needed when it felt like the weight of the world was on their shoulders. Duty and sacrifice swirled together while secrets hung in the darkness. And tension racketed up and down.  At times I didn’t feel like I could breathe because I was so scared with what would take place.  Battles swept through the story.  And betrayal rotted the pages too.  The hurt was so intense, in certain moments, that it felt like our hearts would crack wide open.  But through it all, there was loyalty, friendship and love.  And those moments shined so brightly that they chased the shadows away!

“Tell me I’m wrong. Tell me!” he shouted, the shadows spreading until his flesh was the color of midnight streaked with starlight, and the fingers around my wrists became as hard as shadowstone.

My respect and love for Sera grew even more! Sera was loathed by so many, because of what she had planned to do to Nyktos.  And while I didn’t blame anyone for feeling that way, I hoped that she would prove them wrong about her.  So I loved when Sera would stand her ground and do what was right. I loved that she jumped into the fight time and again. Sera was a true leader! That was also terrifying because we knew that Sera would do what was right, and the consequences including her life be damned. She was good, kind, thoughtful and protected those she cared about fiercely. And her bravery also bled into her honesty about talking about herself. But even fear or hurt would creep up on Sera, and it could be hard to escape. So whether she was slicing others with a sword or her words, I cheered her on every step of the way!

“Do not order me about as if I’m a child.”
“I wouldn’t if you didn’t behave like one.”
I saw red. “You sure as hell didn’t think I was behaving like one when you had me in your bed and your fangs in my throat!”
“Whoa,” Ector murmured.
Fiery, silver eyes locked with mine. “Sera.”

Ash, or I guess I should be calling him Nyktos *cries*, was such a complicated soul. He was willing to sacrifice and give so much to protect Sera. But at the same point, he could break our hearts.  Was he only protecting Sera because of the embers? My heart kept fighting me that that couldn’t be the case.  I hoped it was because of her. And as we learned more, Nyktos splintered my heart. On one side, how could you not love him? When he would share the words for how he felt, it was so easy to melt into a puddle. And maybe I took those moments as more, but I don’t care, I melted. He also listened. And he stood up for her. He was always thinking of her. But at the same time there was pain and hurt. I can’t say why, but my breath caught and there were tears. Yet I kept hoping for the best. Nyktos rendered me an emotional mess with his words and actions, whether it was joy or sorrow. And still, I loved him with my whole heart.

Dampness rushed to my eyes, and I quickly looked away. I had to. Ragged, raw emotion swelled. What he said meant the realm to me, because every word he’d spoken had been about me and my actions. Not what he believed about me. Not what I or the embers could do for him, but what I had chosen to do. And for the first time in my life, I felt like I was more than a destiny I’d never agreed to. More than the embers I carried within me.
I felt like… more.

Sera and Nyktos both wanted to protect the other, no matter the cost. And while they tried to keep their guard up, in regards to feeling deeply about the other, they faltered time and again. So the steamy scenes between them were scorching hot! The passion and what they did to each other *fans face*, it was sensual and erotic! But they were both tested. Whether it was with each other or with others. So I appreciated the lighter moments between them. There was a scene with swords that added so much joy, happiness and heart that I can’t think about it without smiling! But truths we don’t even want to face came out. Revelations were shocking. Trust was broken and earned. It was impossible not to be emotional about it. And through every single step I couldn’t help but think that Sera and Nyktos were the ultimate power couple and I kept cheering for them!

“I know you’re strong and can fight. That you’re brave. Needing me or anyone to look out for you doesn’t mean you’re weak, that you can’t defend yourself, or that you’re afraid. We all need someone to watch over us.”
Heat crawled up my throat. “Do you?”
“Desperately,” he whispered.

As powers grew and others made themselves known, this book kept me in the palm of it’s hand. Shocking events happened that left me desperate to figure out what was truly going on. And as we watched things we thought were right, become shaded in another light, the world we knew twisted on its axis.  My mind was blown! So. Many. Times! There were perilous scenes where we didn’t know who lived and who died. Foreshadowing left me terrified or excited. We saw the creation of things we learned to fear in FBAA.  And we also saw some that we loved!  No names, you have to read it to see them again! And I appreciated yet again laughter during the moments that were intense. Whether it was battles or heart wrenching moments, we desperately needed that lightness. I just have to say Jaden, oh how I loved her antics, and Reaver with what he did for Sera, those two easily stole my heart!

“My instincts work completely fine. Earlier they warned me that you’d be angry with my decision to go out onto the Rise.”
His eyes narrowed into thin, glowing slits. “Have you ever tried, oh, I don’t know? Listening to it? Valuing your life?”
“I’ve never really had the opportunity to do so, now, have I?” I snapped.
Nyktos went completely still, all except his eyes. 

With unthinkable sacrifices, shocking revelations and emotional moments that leave tears falling down our face, A Light in the Flame is a must read! I was so excited while reading this book, but dread kept pooling in my stomach too. And there were plenty of scenes that definitely justified that dread! Unspeakable acts made me want to scream at the injustice.  My blood boiled, and I wanted revenge so dark that it would swallow the other person whole. But at the same time, I felt so much hope for what was to come. The friendship, the caring, the love that flowed throughout these pages was heartwarming and will leave a smile on your face. But be prepared, because the ending of this book, ohhhh it’s a good one. Fans of perilous moments will enjoy! And while it’s a cliffhanger in a way, in another way there’s something to think about. To hope for. And while I do that, I’ll be desperately waiting for the release of the next book!

I would not crack here. I would not break. I would not. I would not. I would not. Not today. My hands steadied. My chest loosened. My heart beat. I breathed.
I was nothing once more.

PS  Someones wish broke me.

I clamped my jaw shut as I slammed my palm against the door, searching for anger. For fury. But all I found was grief. Hurt. Disappointment. In him. In me.

PPS I cried 15 times.  Yes 15 times. This book undid me.

 

Spoiler Quotes: I’ll come back on release day and add these, but put a spoiler tag on them ♥

View Spoiler »

*I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book, provided by the author. All thoughts and opinions are my own.*

Reading Order & Links:

Amazon (click on covers) & iBooks (click on titles)


From Blood and Ash (Blood and Ash Series) #1
Review:

Jen

A Kingdom of Flesh and Fire (Blood and Ash Series) #2
Review:

Jen

The Crown of Gilded Bones (Blood and Ash Series) #3
Review:
Jen

A Shadow in the Ember Ash (Flesh and Fire Series) 
#1
Review:

Jen

The War of Two Queens (Blood and Ash Series) #4
Review:
Jen

A Light in the Flame (Flesh and Fire Series ) #2

Review:
Jen

A Soul of Ash and Blood (Blood and Ash Series) 
#5
Review:

Jen

A Fire in the Flesh (Flesh and Fire Series) #3
Review:
Jen

Visions of Flesh and Blood (Blood and Ash Series) #5.5
Releases February 20th 2024
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