Under His Reign by Willow Winters

Under His Reign is Willow Winters' latest release and although it featured an already established world and characters, it was rather easy to pick up and read as a standalone. I wished the author could have provided new readers with more context and/or background information to her world and characters because it started and ended abruptly. Nevertheless, I thought Dragos and Kara's story was engaging, emotional, and incredibly steamy. There were some unexpected and tearful moments between the two, which I appreciated. In his attempt to seduce Kara, Dragos intentionally withheld information from her and his intent—which had major consequences to their relationship and resulted in some heartbreaking moments. It was refreshing to see a dominant and possessive hero fumble and fail to appease his vulnerable heroine who wore her heart on her sleeve.

“She's the greatest treasure I've ever had. I won't let her go.”

In the end, Dragos and Kara's romance was passionate, all-consuming, and angsty. I enjoyed this book and am curious about what will happen next. The book does end abruptly, despite having an epilogue. The story began and ended with a character named "Alec," who we know is a sorcerer. He was in love with a woman named Isabella but she was unfortunately kidnapped by Galen. I was perplexed by this relationship because Galen already seemed possessive of Isabella even though she was in love with someone else and only had the potential to "heat" and carry dragonlings. In my opinion, Cyrus was a much more interesting character and level-headed compared to his two brothers. Considering their traumatic past and the fact that they were the only three dragons left in this world, Cyrus lived in the moment and didn't care about being mated. I highly recommend this book to those who are looking for a quick and steamy paranormal romance with a dominant hero who falls first for his independent and spitfire heroine.

*This ARC was generously provided by the author/publisher for an honest review*

Rating: ★★★★☆

When a Moth Loved a Bee by Pepper Winters

Pepper Winters has crafted a story that is incredibly haunting, beautifully romantic, and complex because it reveals everything and nothing all at once. Although we’re given certain clues and hints on what may have happened between the girl and her stranger, there is this inexplicable and instant connection that they cannot ignore despite their lost memories. Something or someone is trying to keep them apart—no matter what. What ensues is a tale of heartbreak and an attempt to uncover their memories to what may be a hopeless endeavor for these two star-crossed lovers. Dorra and Runa will have a long road ahead of them and there are forces that will attempt to tear them apart no matter what.

"I want to tell you that one day, we will be together… I want to tell you… I love you. That I loved you before I remembered you, and I'll love you through every life after this one."

While I would have liked for more spice between Dorra and Runa, the angst and emotion that they had for each other was powerful enough to keep me intrigue and invested. Instead, the author has created a slow burn romance with plenty of sexual tension and longing for our main characters. This book will absolutely tug at your heart and keep readers enthralled because of the devotion, possession, and love that the moth has for his bee. I do want to note that I read the updated version with 20% of the book edited out. In the end, When a Moth Loved Bee is a story between star-crossed lovers who were never supposed to fall in love and paid a heavy price for it. Even though Dorra and Runa may come from different worlds, their soul remembered each other and this new journey might very well be their redemption and reunion.

*This ARC was generously provided by the author and publisher for an honest review*

Rating: ★★★★☆

Wild Born by Nikolai Andrew

Wild Born is the first book in the Wolven Brotherhood series by Nikolai Andrew and it features two unlikely fated mates who were always meant to be together. If you're looking for a quick and dirty story with paranormal elements, then you will definitely get that here. The book begins with Callan falling completely obsessed and head over heels in lust with his fated heroine, Sestina. Unbeknownst to Sestina, her alluring and powerful scent drove him to the brink of madness. While their first meeting was unconventional, I liked that he scared her away because of his intensity at first but then she slowly warmed up to him after he saved her. They were certainly compatible with each other and had plenty of sexual chemistry. I certainly enjoyed the hot and steamy moments between the two.

"I love you more than life, and I will protect you with mine if I have to."

In the end, Callan and Sestina's story was an enjoyable read and beginning to the Wolven Brotherhood series. In addition to the romance and sexy scenes, I was also intrigued by the world-building in this book because Callan was considered a "wolven" and was part of a "pact," much similar to that of a werewolf. The inhabitants of this world were surprisingly fine with paranormal beings and even lived with them. Holly and Vargr will be next and they were briefly introduced as secondary characters in this book. I wonder if Roark, the leader of Callan's pact, will get his own story even though he lost his mate long ago. If you like your heroes possessive, dirty, and knows exactly who he wants—a sweet and innocent heroine by his side, then you won't be disappointed with Callan and Sestina's story.

*This ARC was generously provided by the author and publisher for an honest review*

Rating: ★★★★☆

A Lair So Royal by Zoey Ellis

A Lair So Royal is the final book in the Last Dragorai series and it features the serious, dominant, and unrelenting Khyros and his disobedient, resilient, and destined mate Azenyah. These two matched each other perfectly. Although I did not like how their relationship started because it was incredibly messy and complicated, this couple did grow on me over time. Khyros was the head of the Vattoro clan and much of the story so far revolved around him trying to locate his dragon who has been missing for centuries. Little did he know that fate and the Goddesses had plans for them all because of past mistakes and oversights from the dragorai race.

"You are mine. You will always be mine, no matter what you say or do. You will always be my priority. I will do whatever it takes to protect you."

Azenyah was an interesting character and very different from past heroines because she is a dragorai—the same race as Khyros. After being trapped for on an island with Khyros' dragon for hundreds of years, Azenyah is thrust into a world that she no longer knows. A warrior for a time long gone, she is Khyros' other half and equal but due to misunderstandings between the two, their first time together was violent and brutal. I had a hard time finishing this book at first but once things took a turn and secrets were revealed, I was determined to finish it all the way. While the romance between Khyros and Azenyah was more physical at first, I was able to feel more of their connection near the end when truths were finally revealed.

"I wouldn't change anything if it meant there was a chance I wouldn't have you."

In the end, I enjoyed this book despite my initial reaction to it and would recommend it to fans of Zoey Ellis and those who love fantasy romance with a lot of spice. Once the truth behind Khyros' missing dragon and why Azenyah was trapped on the same island was revealed, everything made sense. I felt heartbroken for everyone who died and fought in the war against the humans but it also left them a promising future to hold on to. The ending of the series was a pleasant surprise and brought much hope to the Vattoro clan. I hope that Zoey Ellis will continue this series in the future because I truly did enjoy all of the characters. The nose rubs will always be my favorite. I recommend this series to those who like the "enemies to romance" and "pre-destined soul mates" tropes with a dominant and arrogant hero who will stop at nothing to keep and claim his defiant and stubborn little warrior.

*This ARC was generously provided by the author and publisher for an honest review*

Rating: ★★★★☆

A Curse of Blood & Stone by K.A. Tucker

A Curse of Blood & Stone is the latest installment in the Fate & Flame series by K.A. Tucker and it immediately picks up where A Fate of Wrath & Flame left off. It has been some time since I last read the first book and I would highly recommend re-reading it because we are not provided with a recap of events or a list of important characters, something I would have really appreciated going in to this book. Romeria and Zander are now on the run after Atticus, Zander's brother, has accused him of betraying the kingdom. Atticus has also decided to usurp the throne—which prompted a series of events where Romeria must now find a key caster to help train her and Zander must find and reunite with his legion of warriors.

"I don't want you to feel trapped by your feelings for me. It's the last thing I would ever want."

This was a lot to take in, especially since the previous book mainly focused on the blossoming romance between Romeria and Zander whereas the sequel now focuses on the deteriorating political relations between Zander and his kingdom. I mourned for their relationship because it was seemingly impossible for Zander to love Romeria and be a good king to his people. Although the romance took a backseat in this book, Romeria goes through tremendous growth and character development as she is forced to reconcile with her growing powers, role in this new world, and her relationship with Zander. Some of my favorite side characters include the dependable Elisaf, snarky Jarek, sweet and kind Eden, and Pan who Romeria saved from mercenaries. I loved Romeria's self-righteousness and steely determination to protect all mortals.

"I will not risk her, not for all the crowns and all the kingdoms. There must be another way."

In the end, I enjoyed this book even though I thought it was more on the fantasy side than romance. Zander and Romeria had to go through some struggles to be together, especially since Zander was doubting whether his love for her was real. The last part of the book had major revelations that will absolutely have an impact on the future considering Romeria's role in the prophecy. If you like slow burn romance, you won't be disappointed by Zander and Romeria. I also loved that we get to read Zander's POV in addition to Romeria's because it provided a more thorough picture of what he truly felt for her despite everything that happened. Fans of K.A. Tucker will not want to miss out on this fantasy series since she is mostly known for writing contemporary romance.

*This ARC was generously provided by the author and publisher for an honest review*

Rating: ★★★★☆

A Lair So Fateful by Zoey Ellis

A Lair So Fateful by Zoey Ellis is the fourth book in the Last Dragorai series and it features Sethorn and Uraya. Both characters have been featured in previous books, specifically in A Lair So Loyal when Uraya saved Oshali from the Queen and Sethorn has been a reoccurring character in the series due to his status as a centuries old dragorai alpha of the Vattoro clan. While Uraya and Sethorn's book can be read as a standalone, I highly recommend reading the books in order because they all build on each other. The world is rich and full of nuance while the characters are equally special and interesting because of their personalities, backgrounds, and purposes. I had been anticipating Sethorn and Uraya's story ever since we were given a glimpse of their push/pull and "antagonistic" relationship in A Lair So Primal. We were never given a reason as to why they were always fighting and now we know why—it's related to their first meeting with each other.

"You're the challenge I always needed. I've been looking for you for centuries."

Although Uraya and Sethorn had a lot of issues, mostly due to her stubbornness and his arrogance, I thought they were interesting characters and excellent foils to each other. When they argued, it was always intense, exciting, and electric. There's no denying that these two have a lot of chemistry together and Zoey Ellis always excels at evoking the sexual tension between them as well. It certainly made for some spicy scenes. I especially loved the agreement scene when Uraya tried to make a deal with Sethorn and went toe-to-toe with him to get what she wanted. The subsequent scenes we got from that was incredibly erotic and dirty. Uraya was always pushing Sethorn to the edge and he was simply not used to her disobedience and unwillingness to worship him. On the other hand, Uraya was constantly annoyed by Sethorn because he was dominant, overbearing, and used to getting his way. It was quite entertaining to see their relationship play out.

"I set out to make you worship me and I quickly realized that you were making me worship you."

In the end, I really enjoyed Uraya and Sethorn's story because it had everything I wanted—a great cast of characters, twists and turns in the plot, a romance that was super steamy and angsty at times, and dragons. The story does take a super interesting turn with the discovery of Khyros' missing dragon, the oldest brother and head of the Vattoro clan. I absolutely can't wait to find out what will happen next in the story because Khyros will finally be reunited with his dragon and meet his mate! Fans of Zoey Ellis and Ruby Dixon's Fireblood Dragons series will not be disappointed by this series and book because it has all the makings of a fantastic fantasy romance with erotic and omegaverse elements. I highly recommend this book to those who like the "enemies to romance" and "soul mates" tropes with an alpha and arrogant hero who will stop at nothing to keep and claim his defiant and stubborn heroine.

*This ARC was generously provided by the author and publisher for an honest review*

Rating: ★★★★☆

Gilded Cage by Dani Wyatt

Gilded Cage is Dani Wyatt's take on high fantasy and erotic romance and it was incredibly steamy, angsty, and romantic. Calliope and Rian met and fell in love with each other but outside forces wanted to keep them apart. As a result, a curse was placed on them—forcing them to forever be separate and apart. I really enjoyed this aspect of the book because it adds further tension and drama to their relationship as they pine for each other. Like most of Dani Wyatt's books, the sex and chemistry between Calliope and Rian simply burned up the pages. I don't typically read interspecies relationships but I thought this was done incredibly well because I didn't mind the fact that Rian was part orc most of the time because of the curse. It made for some incredibly sexy scenes, especially when they were finally reunited.

“You are greedy for me, dirty songbird. It only makes me love you more, the way you want me as I want you.”

In the end, I simply adored this book because it was short, sweet, and dirty. Rian absolutely loves Calliope and if you're into stories where the hero is completely obsessed with his heroine, I highly recommend this book and the author's other stories because you will not be disappointed. I loved how there was also a "Beauty and the Beast" vibe to this story because Rian is cursed and forced to assume the appearance of an orc. In addition, the threat of war between Calliope and Rian's kingdoms was always present. The curse simply exacerbated it. Nevertheless, I highly recommend this book to those who love the love at first sight and 'enemies' to lovers tropes with a hero and heroine who were simply fated to be with each other.

*This ARC was generously provided by the author and publisher for an honest review*

Rating: ★★★★☆

Necromancist by Charmaine Pauls

Necromancist by Charmaine Pauls is the sixth installment in the Seven Forbidden Arts series that features characters who are more than meets the eye. Combining both paranormal and erotic romance, the story was action-packed, emotional, suspenseful, and full of steamy moments between Ivan and Alice. Although I was frustrated by their lack of communication, I was still invested in their relationship and wanted them to resolve their issues. Their love was angsty and will certainly pull at your heartstrings because the depth in which Ivan wanted to possess Alice was all encompassing. Ivan was a broken man and even though I wanted to shake him for having such negative thoughts about himself, Alice, Cain, and the world, I also understood where he was coming from. His bleak perspective was a product of his own upbringing—one where he never truly had a home and lost everything when Alice left him.

"This darkness that's in me, it's attracted to your light. I need you like fire needs oxygen. You're my flame, and I'm your moth."

Ivan Kray was such an interesting and contradictory character. He was obnoxious and dominant but also passionate and obsessive. Alice was everything to him and he was unwilling to let her go, even when they have been separated from each other for nine years. This need to possess and own her was prevalent throughout the book and made for some frustrating but also steamy moments between the two. In addition to the romance, Ivan also has his own secret—one where he is a necromancist with the power to manipulate and control the dead and living. This power has attracted the attention of the main antagonist of the series, Godfrey, who will stop at nothing to obtain it. Alice Jones is the daughter of Cain Jones, the leader of the paranormal task force who has been featured many times in the series thus far. Their relationship has been strained ever since he walked away from her life following the death of her mother. I would describe Alice as empathetic, emotional, insecure, and loving. Despite being hurt by Ivan in the past and present, she continues to love and care for him.

"You're mine, the one thing in life that belongs to me."

In the end, I enjoyed reading Ivan and Alice's second chance love story even when it frustrated me at times because they simply could have talked to each other instead of resolving it through sex. Don't get me wrong, the love scenes were smoking hot and extremely sexy but I could see it becoming a problem when Alice begins wanting more for herself. Ivan was in denial with himself and didn't believe he was capable of love after losing Alice the first time. He never thought he was good enough for her and kept placing her on this pedestal when in reality, Alice had loved him in spite of everything all along. This book actually reminded me of the author's earlier works, The Astronomer because the two main characters had a lot of misunderstandings and didn't communicate with each other very well. However, I was completely satisfied with Alice and Ivan's relationship by the end of this book. I highly recommend this series to those who have read and loved Charmaine Pauls' stories before as well as those who love a possessive and "bad boy" hero who will stop at nothing to protect and obtain his sweet heroine.

*This ARC was generously provided by the author and publisher for an honest review*

Rating: ★★★★☆

Little Mate by Elena M. Reyes

Little Mate by Elena M. Reyes is the prequel to Little Lies and I would not recommend reading it as a standalone. It should be read after in order to appreciate the sequence of events from the main book. The author has crafted an interesting story of fated love, second chance romance, loss and betrayal, as well as revenge that spans over a century. This book provides further context to Gabriella and Theodore's story, specifically on how their romance initially began. I remember reading bits and pieces of it in the main story when Gabriella had flashbacks or dreams of her past life. I was completely captivated by Theodore's everlasting love for Gabriella and how devoted he was to bring her back. It was love at first sight for the both of them.

"Just like I'll devour you, I'll never leave your side. You'll own me as irrecoverably as I'll own you."

Theodore himself was mysterious, ruthless, and foreboding but when it comes to his fated mate, he is passionate, gentle, and loving. The Gabriella in Little Mate is quite different from her counterpart in the sequel because in addition to being a powerful witch with a close connection to death, she is confident, knows exactly what she wants, and righteous. After the murder of her parents, Gabriella and her siblings are on the run but fate has other plans for her. At the same time, Theo was leaving a bloody path of destruction in search for her. I was highly anticipating for the moment they finally meet each other and it certainly did not disappoint.

"To the world, I'm a monster, but for her, I'll be gentle. Be the man she needs."

In the end, I enjoyed Little Mate and thought it was an excellent prequel to Gabriella and Theo's love story because it provided some much needed context and background to their incredibly sexy and dark romance. Nonetheless, I would have liked if it was interspersed or part of my initial experience when I was reading Little Lies. Since Gabriella was an unreliable narrator because of her reincarnation and memory loss, we had no idea what was going to happen next. However, this was also what made the first book so interesting because the entire plot was a bit of a mystery and we are given part of the puzzle to unravel. Fans of Elena M. Reyes won't be disappointed in her paranormal twist in the dark romance genre and those who love the fated mates trope will also enjoy this book.

*This ARC was generously provided by the author and publisher for an honest review*

Rating: ★★★★☆

Geomancist by Charmaine Pauls

Even though Geomancist wasn't my favorite 7 Forbidden Arts book, I still enjoyed Asia and Sean's story very much. Their relationship was part enemies to lovers and mostly revolved around finding love in the midst of an extremely dangerous situation. As always, Charmaine Pauls excels at writing the tense atmosphere in her stories and chemistry of her characters. Asia and Sean had a difficult relationship at first because of their rivalry but it developed into something so much more than they could ever realize. They were both seeking the same thing and would go through any lengths to achieve it. I loved this aspect of the book. Past characters from the series also made an appearance and I can honestly say that Cain's manipulative nature was off-putting because he forced both Asia and Sean's hands. I hope that he will be able to redeem himself later in the series.

"If you let me have you, I'm never going to let you go. If you stay, it's forever."

I thought the book did a fantastic job introducing its main characters, Sean and Asia. With each chapter, we learn more and more about their secrets, motivations, struggles, and attraction for one another. One hides a secret that cost him everything while the other is struggling to support and keep her family together. With this setup in mind, Cain's manipulation further intensifies their situation by putting both Sean and Asia in front of one of Godfrey's acquaintances, a drug lord by the name of Juan Hernandez who is immediately attracted by Asia and wants her. Sean, who is already intensely attracted to Asia, gets incredibly jealous and tries to do everything in his power to prevent that from happening. If you like your male leads possessive and over the top jealous when it comes to his woman, Sean Rivers has got it.

"Loving him was like a law of nature, a law that could never be broken."

In the end, I highly recommend this book and series to those who like paranormal romance and erotic romance. This book was incredibly spicy, if you know what I mean, and the heat factor is high when it comes to Sean and Asia's romance. Fans of Charmaine Paul will of course enjoy this series because it features many of the attributes we know and love from her writing and style. Sean Rivers was highly driven, intense, and moody whereas Asia was a spark of sunshine in his life. I loved how she was equally driven to provide for her family and her attraction to Sean, despite her hesitation, was also all-consuming for her. This made for a somewhat angsty romance between the two. If you like the enemies-to-lovers trope, you will absolutely love this book because it was intense, action-packed, highly erotic, and entertaining.

*This ARC was generously provided by the author and publisher for an honest review*

Rating: ★★★★☆

A Lair So Primal by Zoey Ellis

A Lair So Primal by Zoey Ellis is the third book in The Last Dragorai series and it was magical, intense, heartbreaking at times, and highly erotic. I had been anticipating Elora and Zendyor's book ever since they were first introduced in the series and their romance did not disappoint. I would not recommend reading this as a standalone because it establishes upon the world-building, story, and lore from the first two books in the series. Zendyor is the third brother to fall in love and yet he is also the most temperamental, serious, and suspicious of them all. I absolutely loved watching him become completely obsessed and possessive over Elora even though I wanted to smack him on the side of the head because of how he was treating her initially. Elora is Zendyor's complete opposite because she is sweet, optimistic, kind, and endearing but she is also the foil to his character. Their interactions were intense, sexually charged, and passionate.

"Elora took comfort in Zendyor and feared him, he terrorized her and healed her. It wasn't supposed to be this way… This was dangerous, carnal, and even perverse."

Zoey Ellis has done a wonderful job establishing the relationship between Elora and Zendyor from previous books. Much like I'mya and Nyro's story, my favorite part of the book was their chemistry and push-pull relationship. I thought Elora was the heart of this book and it was heartbreaking to finally know the truth behind her faction and escape from the Northern Cities. Her optimistic and kind nature was what brought light to Zendyor's world and home. Even though their relationship was rocky at first because of Zendyor's suspicious nature, it eventually developed into something more over time. I loved how we could see Zendyor's struggle to believe in Elora and his increasing desire for her even when she was telling him the truth the entire time.

"I will always be your family. Your rock, your base, whenever you feel unsettled… I exist for you."

In the end, this was a fantastic addition to the series and I can't wait to read Sethorn and Uraya's book next! From what we know of him, Sethorn is charming but uses his looks to bed women and gets easily bored of them, also known as the strategist between the brothers, and can't help but get into arguments with Uraya who we met in the previous book. I am also really looking forward to Khyros' book, the leader of the Vattoro, because of his missing dragon. Elora and Zendyor's was everything I wanted and more. If you love a possessive and jealous hero who will stop at nothing to claim and protect the heroine, I highly recommend this series! It has magic, DRAGONS, steamy love scenes, wonderful characters, and a really well-built world.

*This ARC was generously provided by the author and publisher for an honest review*

Rating: ★★★★★

Claimed by J.R. Ward

After taking a break from J.R. Ward and the BDB series since The Shadows, I was curious enough about her new series featuring shifters/wolves. However, it still takes place in the same world as the BDB. In this latest series, we're introduced to two new characters: Lydia Susi and Daniel Joseph. I found them relatable and different from Ward's past characters. Lydia was passionate but frustrated about her work as a researcher at Wolf Study Project due to various problems including an incompetent director, the building of a luxury spa resort next to the wildlife preserve, poisoned wolves, and a murder case that might lead directly to the wolves. In contrast, Daniel had his own secrets and was portrayed as someone who moved around a lot and never planned on sticking to one place for long. Lydia was attracted to him since the beginning but kept her distance because they were worked together.

At times, I felt like the romance between Lydia and Daniel took a backseat to the mystery behind what was happening to the wolves. There were intimate glances and certainly chemistry between the two but it took some time before they finally got together. It was definitely a slow burn that kept getting stronger and stronger towards the end. I did find it interesting that both characters had secrets since Daniel was keeping a major one from Lydia. As always, Ward has a tendency to focus on the world-building and this took the center stage as she provides us background and context through multiple points of view. It was also nice to see character cameos from the BDB series including Xhex and John, Qhuinn and Blaylock, as well as Rhevenge and more. It made me want to catch up to Ward's original series and see what was happening to its characters.

In the end, Claimed had plenty of twists and shocking revelations that will have you excited for more to come from this series. This book also had plenty of twists and shocking revelations that will most likely contribute to the overall world of the Black Dagger Brotherhood. Although the romance took awhile for me to be invested, I still appreciated that slow burn between Lydia and Daniel. They were strangers that eventually turned into friends and lovers. I did thoroughly enjoy their love story and thought their scenes together were very sexy. I'm a fan of those intimate glances and moments when characters catch each other's eyes and then look away. I look forward to seeing what J.R. Ward has in store for this series next!

*This ARC was generously provided by the author and publisher for an honest review*

Rating: ★★★★☆

A Lair So Loyal by Zoey Ellis

A Lair So Loyal is the second book in The Last Dragorai series featuring Tyomar and Oshali. This book felt different from the first one because it features a ward-like relationship between the two main characters. Tyomar was previously featured in Nyro and I'mya's book and I remembered him as the mediator between the brothers and the one who gets along with everyone. In this installment, we get to see another side to Tyomar when he is with Oshali—the young girl he rescued so many years ago. I would recommend reading A Lair So Sinful because Zoey Ellis already did an excellent job establishing the world and its characters in that book. Tyomar and Oshali's story furthers that progression by introducing us to new tidbits and information about the rest of the dragorai brothers and their affect in this world.

"I want every part of you, inside and out. Everything you're willing to give and everything you're not. And I will have it, little cloak."

Oshali is an orphan who had been rescued by Tyomar. Since then, she has been the point contact between the Mheyu, an organization that documents the history of this world and are followers of the Goddesses, and the dragorai. As always, Zoey Ellis excels at capturing the dynamic chemistry and tension between Tyomar and Oshali. Some of their scenes were hilarious, sexy, and erotic. Both characters are stubborn and they often clash because of their strong personalities. Oshali has been in love with Tyomar since young but believes that he will one day abandon her after finding his mate. What she doesn't realize is that Tyomar only has eyes for her and has been biding his time. My favorite part about this book was seeing how their relationship developed from acquaintances to lovers over time.

"You are mine, Oshali. You have always been mine… There won't be anything for you to give to anyone because I will have already taken it. Your heart, your mind, your love, and your kiss."

In the end, I really enjoyed this book and will be excitedly waiting for Zendyor and Elora's book in A Lair So Primal! I've been wanting to read their story since Nyro and I'mya. He is the brother with the quick temper and we've been given hints as to why he has been so distracted lately. If I could summarize Tyomar and Oshali's book, I would say that it was a journey to find oneself and freedom but ending up with so much more. I loved Tyomar's possessiveness and obsession over Oshali as well as his frequent nose rubs. It's very characteristic of the brothers! I recommend this series to fantasy romance lovers who like a bit of spice in their books because the love scenes were fire.

Rating: ★★★★☆

A Fate of Wrath & Flame by K.A. Tucker

A Fate of Wrath & Flame is the first book in a fantasy romance series by K.A. Tucker and it is a phenomenal and captivating one. Not only is there a slow burn romance between Romeria and Zander but there is magic, alternate universes, betrayal, gods & monsters, and destiny. This is not young adult. K.A. Tucker has built a world that is incredibly complex, special, and unique. The cast of characters are also multi-dimensional and layered with their own motivations and ambitions—including the antagonists. I was constantly questioning everything and everyone. Romeria is my favorite type of heroine: courageous, independent, curious, passionate, and innocent. Zander is her complete match and has all the qualities of a king: dutiful, loyal, compassionate, serious, and profound. Both characters have the potential to love deeply.

"I no longer feel the desire to look backward. I only want to look forward with you."

The story begins with a prologue that is intriguing and ultimately sets the stage for the events that will come. Romeria is a thief and she has the special ability to steal anything she sets her mind to. Unfortunately, this also gets her in trouble and she is now in debt to man named Korsakov. As she is studying her target, she meets a woman named Sofie who will irrevocably change her life. Without going into spoilers, Romeria is thrust into this new and parallel world of elementals, casters, fates, and immortals. She has inhabited the body of Princess Romeria from Ybaris who has seemingly come back to life after poisoning the king and queen of Islor. Zander, the previous Romeria's intended, now wants her dead.

"The old is now destined with the new, and there is no going back. There is only forward."

The story is intense, action-packed, magical, and full of passion. After being accused of things she did not do, Romeria now has to navigate this strange world while trying to earn the trust of those around her. Some of my favorite side characters include Elisaf, Corrin, Wendaline, and Annika. The chemistry between Zander and Romeria is palpable and electric. I looked forward to every scene they had together! At the heart of this story, there is a vendetta between the gods and I'm worried about what this will mean for Romeria and Zander now that their paths are intertwined. In the end, I absolutely can't wait for the next book in this series. Fans of K.A. Tucker will absolutely devour this book because it is an exceptional one. If you love the enemies to lovers and fake marriage/betrothal trope, then I highly recommend this book!

*This ARC was generously provided by the author and publisher for an honest review*

Rating: ★★★★★

A Lair So Sinful by Zoey Ellis

A Lair So Sinful was my first book by Zoey Ellis and it certainly won't be my last. I enjoyed I'mya and Nyro's story so much. What happens when you combine dark romance with fantasy? You get the omegaverse. If you love stories featuring a possessive and dirty talking hero who is obsessed with his heroine, you'll get that here. Did I mention that he has a dragon? I found the world completely fascinating and I can't wait to read more about it. It has magic, intrigue, betrayal, and sex.

At first, I wasn't sure where the story was going because we are learning and experiencing everything for the first time, just like I'mya. The story starts off with her awakening in a cavern completely naked. She finds out that she is part of a group of women meant to satisfy the needs of the dragonair. I'mya has lost her memories and wants to escape her predicament. What she doesn't realize is that she is exactly where she's supposed to be. Her attempt at escaping leads her to her first encounter with the master of the lair, Nyro, and his dragon.

"Sliding his large hand to the back of her neck, he lowered his head to scent her, running his nose from her collarbone, along her neck, stopping just behind her ear."

I actually adore their relationship. I love how I'mya isn't afraid to talk back to Nyro and even calls him a coward for "torturing" her with magic. I found their courtship to be sexy, funny at times, and swoon-worthy. The nose touch and cuddles! There is a language barrier at first because Nyro considers his own much superior but I'mya is able to understand him whenever he uses magic. At the heart of this book, there is a twist in the plot that I didn't expect and we uncover it as I'mya starts to remember her memories and past life.

"Your scent has been torturing me since the moment I met you, and your beauty is uniquely agonizing."

In the end, I really enjoyed this book and look forward to reading more from Zoey Ellis. Nyro is one of five brothers and Tyomar is next. I'm really excited to read Zendyor's book because he is most likely fated to be with Elora, I'mya's friend. She was the woman who accidentally trespassed into his territory before arriving at Nyro's. Anyway, if you love your stories a little bit dark, erotic, romantic, and magical, don't miss out on this book!

Rating: ★★★★☆

Black Sunshine by Karina Halle

Black Sunshine is Karina Halle's first attempt at a vampire romance and I can honestly say that it was an enjoyable but mixed bag overall. There were parts of the book that really intrigued me but fell flat for some. Unfortunately, the story falls under the traps of the genre with a heroine who is special but makes some irrational and stupid mistakes that ends up hurting others. She also falls under love/lust with the "anti-hero" of the book who I personally did not like at first but he did grow on me.

"You're worth more to me than anything they could give me in exchange."

Lenore Warwick is the main heroine of this book and she is special because of her mixed blood. I thought the prologue was absolutely fantastic. Black Sunshine starts off with an assassination attempt that is wrapped up in revenge. This starts off a chain of events that will eventually lead to Lenore meeting Absolon Stavig. What I found interesting about this is that Lenore doesn't remember anything about her past and who her real parents are. Furthermore, Lenore is hunted because of her special blood. I thought the Black Sunshine, the mysterious dimension eerily similar to hell, was an interesting concept!

"I just wanted Solon, in every way I could get him. Even if it's not what he wanted."

Now, let's talk about the part of the book that I actually did like—the romance. Lenore and Solon's relationship was a push and pull, hot and cold. Not only is he much older than her but there is something about him you can't help hate and love. I have to forewarn that there is a scene that might be triggering to some. It happens when Lenore went through her transition and the one helping her was not Solon. In the end, Lenore and Solon had amazing chemistry and their love scenes were very sexy. There were parts of the world-building that interested me but could be more fleshed out. The romance could also have benefited from more angst and emotion. I felt like I was looking at Lenore and Solon's romance on the side instead of being there with them. Anyway, I would love to read future books featuring Wolf, Amethyst, and Ezra. If you love vampire romances with a sexy as sin hero who is both cruel and cold but can be "saved" by the heroine, then this is the book for you!

*This ARC was generously provided by the author and publisher for an honest review*

Rating: ★★★★☆

Hydromancist by Charmaine Pauls

Over the course of the Seven Forbidden Arts series, I have enjoyed each and every single book. They were all unique and special in their own ways and Hydromancist is no different. This is Maya's story and her fated love with Timothy Fardel. I loved this one and Charmaine Pauls' writing is completely magical, romantic, heartbreaking, and full of angst as always. Maya has always been portrayed as this tough woman who would do anything to uphold her devotion and loyalty to her mission and team. Her task brings her to Costa Rica where she meets her target who happens to be Tim.

There were a lot of twists and secrets in this book that really did transform the world for me. I was actually quite shocked by Tim's secret. I had a suspicion but didn't realize it was possible in this world. Smacking my head because of course, it's also a paranormal romance book! In any case, I was completely invested in Maya and Tim's relationship. Not only did they have intense chemistry with each other but they're also each other's perfect match. Tim knew Maya was his since the very beginning, even when she refused to acknowledge her feelings for him.

"I want you to know that you never have to tell me anything. Even if you refuse to tell me who you are forever, this will always be enough."

What I loved most about Tim was his unconditional love for Maya. He wanted her, loved her, and constantly strived to protect her. She was simply his. Tim was also a dirty talker, which made for some seriously sexy and hot moments. Maya's character was a bit more complicated but I loved her all the same. She felt her heart breaking every time she was "betraying" Tim. She was torn between her duty and budding love for Tim. I thought her inner turmoil was very well-written and I could feel her pain and confusion throughout the book. Charmaine Pauls always excels at this!

"She was torn in two. Her heart and mind was splintered, and she had no idea how to pick up the pieces."

In the end, this book was another excellent addition in the Seven Forbidden Arts series and I look forward to reading more from this series. Geomancist is next and even though I don't know these new characters, I'm still excited to see how this battle between Cain Jones versus Godfrey Reid will turn out. I absolutely recommend this series to those who love dark and sexy romance with a dash of angst and paranormal twist added to it.

*This ARC was generously provided by the author and publisher for an honest review* 

Rating: ★★★★★

Aeromancist by Charmaine Pauls

Aeromancist is the conclusion to Katherine and Lann's story and it was heartbreaking, passionate, and intense. I enjoyed it a lot but it had a different "feel" to it when compared to the prequel, which emphasized on the romance more. In this installment, Katherine and Lann are both faced with a difficult choice and I struggled to read it because I could not imagine an ending where they were not living happily ever after. This feeling of impending doom was looming over their heads the entire time. The romance didn't necessarily take a back seat but the mystery behind Godfrey and why he wanted Lann and Katherine to meet took the stage front and center.

Lann and Katherine go through a lot in this book. At the beginning of the book, our main couple is no longer together and their 30 days of a no strings sexual relationship is over. Katherine has fallen in love with Lann but he no longer wants to be with her... or does he? In any case, Katherine ends up realizing a shocking revelation that will eventually lead her to meet Lann once again.

For those of you who read Pyromancist, you would know that Lann is no "ordinary human." He is an Aeromancist and is part of an secret organization. Katherine certainly doesn't know about this but she has always felt that Lann was different. After their reunion, much of the story takes place in France where Katherine is forced to stay because of her condition. Without going into spoilers territory, the rest of the book was brutally heartbreaking. Remember that feeling of impending doom? Well, the time is ticking for Katherine and without a resolution, Lann is about to lose the love of his life.

In the end, I thoroughly enjoyed this book and I am looking forward to Maya and Tim's story next. While reading Aeromancist, I did notice some slight changes and additions to the book which I thought added more depth and nuance to the story. Katherine and Lann's story was unforgettable, sexy, and rather dark at times but it was also full of love and passion. I highly recommend it!

*This ARC was generously provided by Charmaine Pauls for an honest review* 

Rating: ★★★★☆

Lion by Amber R. Duell & Candace Robinson

I've been wanting to read this prequel ever since I first heard about this series. The Faeries of Oz is a twisted take on the Wizard of Oz and I cannot be more excited! This one features LION and his betrayal of Oz and in a sense, Dorothy as well. He is siding with a witch named Langwidere who collects heads to adorn. I would actually like to know more background information about Lion and Langwidere. These are the not the same characters we all know and love. What has happened since Dorothy left Oz? During this time, Lion has been wanting and waiting for something more.

"Lion didn’t want power for himself—that was too much responsibility—he simply wanted to be close to power. To be needed and important now that he had the courage to become someone of note. He only hoped it would be worth it."

With Oz losing his mind, Lion has decided to become Langwidere's executioner and lover. I am both disgusted and intrigued. She is cruel, narcissistic, and power-hungry. Lion has dedicated himself to become Langwidere's "knight" and she his queen. I was shocked by the love scenes. While not explicit, they were done very tastefully.

"She thought about her original head, the one she’d burned to ash once she’d collected her first prize to replace the old. The kill had come from a fae before the female was to be married, already dressed in a white gown."

It's incredibly interesting and I can't wait to read TIN which features Dorothy and the Tin Man as the main characters. In the end, I thought this was a great "Halloween" creepy read because Langwidere is HEADLESS. She kills female fae for their heads. The reason why I'm so incredibly excited for TIN this December is because Lion has now set his eyes on obtaining Dorothy's head for Langwidere.

Rating: ★★★★☆

Pyromancist by Charmaine Pauls

I've been a fan of Charmaine Pauls ever since I read her Diamonds Are Forever series and the Loan Shark duet. There is something very magical about her writing and it somehow always manages to tug at my heartstrings. Pyromancist was no different. This is the new and updated version with additional scenes. I've actually never read the original but according to Charmaine, this one is a bit darker. I have to say that I really enjoyed this book. It's a very interesting take on paranormal romance and the romance was exceptional as always. Clelia and Joss are both unique characters and they have a past connection with each other. I do have to admit that I was slow to get into the story but was definitely interested when the romance kicked in. I'm glad that this was the main star of this book.

"He was more than a dream. He was the very thread with which she'd woven her soul. Cutting it would mean letting everything she was unravel."

Pyromancist was written in third person, which was very surprising to me but it was done extremely well and I could feel what Clelia and Joss were going through. I love angst and this book definitely had plenty! The story is set in France and partially South Africa. Clelia has been in unrequited love with Joss since she was a teenager but when tragedy struck Joss' family, he left and didn't come back until much later. I was moved by how she was still in love with him and subsequently started to feel disillusioned by her love for Joss because of how much he had changed. Clelia made a shocking decision that would forever connect her with Joss and that is how their story and romance began.

"You belong to me. You're mine. I am keeping you forever... It'll be easier if you hold onto that love you've harbored for me for so long."

Joss similarly made some decisions that had me itching to slap him in the head. I never thought he would take it that far but he did. His possessiveness and obsession with Clelia was exhilarating but also frustrating because he kept going back and forth between right and wrong, black and white. I had whiplash because he was so fixated on "taking responsibility" and protecting Clelia but he also wanted to own her as well. Sound familiar? Heh. Honestly though, the romance was exceptional and I really did love the push and pull between Clelia and Joss. Overall, there was action, romance, mystery, angst, and sexy -- all of the elements that I love in a book! I highly recommend this to those who are looking for a unique spin on paranormal romance with a cast of interesting characters and a romance that will break your heart and keep you thinking about them long after it's finished.

*This ARC was generously provided by Charmaine Pauls for an honest review*

Rating: ★★★★☆