*The Billionaire’s Appetite by L. A. Day


*The Billionaire’s Appetite by L. A. Day
Publisher: Totally Bound Publishing
Genre: Contemporary, Erotic Romance
Rating: 4 stars
Reviewed by Larkspur

She wanted funding—he needed submission. He would give her more than she asked for.

Charity’s father pulled the funding for her research, but she may have found the perfect replacement. Silas is a billionaire and he agrees to meet to discuss her proposal. After an embarrassing first encounter with the gorgeous but elusive billionaire, she didn’t expect him to help her.

Silas Radford is intrigued by the beautiful and brainy scientist. She asks for funding, but he wants a partnership—and not just in business. Sparks fly between them the moment they meet, but there are a few issues to set to rest before he can close the deal.

But Charity doesn’t realize Silas is friends with the father she feels betrayed her. And even if they can get past that, he still has to show her the full extent of his darker appetites…

What happens when a scientist and billionaire businessman meet? That’s the premise in L.A. Day’s newest book, The Billionaire’s Appetite. This quick read is passionate, fun and entertaining.

Silas is a successful businessman with a womanizing reputation. He likes to be in control and when he sees something he wants, he grabs it. So, when he meets Charity, he pulls out all the stops to make her his. Despite his faults, I liked Silas. He is colorful and entertaining and knows what he wants.

Charity is a scientist looking for money for her project. When Silas agrees to help her, she is ecstatic, but she doesn’t realize there are strings attached. Charity is so easy to like. She is dedicated to her project and innocent.

I loved Silas and Charity together and I enjoyed all the push and pull between them. I could feel all the tension flowing between them. Plus, they have tons of chemistry. This is a fun erotic story from start to finish.

So Wrong by January Rowe


So Wrong by January Rowe
Publisher: Evernight Publishing
Genre: Contemporary, Erotic Romance
Rating: 3 stars
Reviewed by Nymphaea

Design assistant Kendra is thrilled when she snags a side gig creating concert outfits for Ford, a mysterious singer. Though intrigued by his sweet nature, she knows she must resist. A relationship just isn’t part of her five year plan. She has important goals, and zero time for a romance with a flighty, flakey performer.

He is so wrong. Why does he feel so right?

Laid back, semi-slob Ford can’t figure out why he’s spending every waking moment thinking about Kendra. The designer is not his type: too driven, too ambitious. Besides, fashion is only for snooty, superficial people.

She is so wrong. Why does she feel so right?

Opposites certainly attract and the result can be so hot.

This is my first time reading a January Rowe book, but it won’t be the last. I liked the way the characters came together and their chemistry. It was a quick enough read and I enjoyed myself.

Ford is a slob, but he’s got to gain a sense of fashion and fast. I liked his ability to be oblivious, yet observant about what he wanted to see. He’s funny and sweet. I loved him. Kendra is fun, too, but she’s hyper involved in fashion. She’s detail oriented and determined. I liked that they were so different because it made the story interesting. I liked the hiccups between them. It was relatable and real.

There are a few times when the story did drag a bit and focused a lot on both the recording industry and the fashion one. Those looking for correct details will be thrilled, but at times it was a bit slow going.

Still, the heat is there and the characters fun. If you’re looking for a story that’s different and still a rock star romance, then this might be the one for you.

Lexi’s Christmas Cowboy by Ashlynn Monroe


Lexi’s Christmas Cowboy by Ashlynn Monroe
Publisher: Evernight Publishing
Genre: Contemporary, Erotic Romance, Holiday
Rating: 4 stars
Reviewed by Nymphaea

Lexi Smithe has always kept her feet planted firmly on the ground. As an administrator for Reining for Respect, she’s devastated when they lose the funding for the program that provides equestrian sports to foster kids. She knows all too well how this program changes lives. And the worst part is the Justice family didn’t even give them an explanation. What she never imagined, was a news story would bring her face-to-face with the most eligible bachelor in Texas before she’s even had her morning coffee.

Hudson Justice doesn’t pay a lot of attention to the charities supported by his family. He’s too busy running Lucky Star, his family’s 520,000 acre ranch. His brothers both have a hand in company affairs, but when he discovers someone in his inner circle has been funneling funds away from the charitable trust, he’s left wondering who’s the thief. When he tries to do a little PR repair, he meets Lexi Smithe. She’s a spitfire he’d sure as hell like to take for a ride, in more ways than one. But he put his big ol’ size 14 in his mouth. He wants to win her over, but she’s not the kind of girl that money can impress.

A cowboy, money, a trust, the girl he wants and the need to find trust. You’ll find it all in this story.

I love a good Ashlynn Monroe story and this one was great. The moment I started it, I breezed right through it. The writing kept me in my seat, and I stayed up far past my bedtime to finish. I mean, with a cowboy like Hudson, how do you not want to keep reading?

I liked Lexi and Hudson because they’re real. I mean it. They felt real and reading this was like being a part of their world. Lexi knows what she wants and she’s not afraid to get it. She’s also not afraid to say no. She’s a real problem (in a good way) for Hudson and the chemistry was fantastic. Hudson, for all his money and status, is still a cowboy and has the ability to goof up. I liked his determination not only to figure out where the money is going and to find the culprit, but to win over Lexi.

If you’re looking for a wonderful holiday romance, then this might be the one for you. It hit all the right notes for me.

O Christmas Tree by Emily Carrington


O Christmas Tree by Emily Carrington
Marisburg Chronicles, Book 2
Publisher: Changeling Press
Genre: Contemporary, Holiday, Erotic Romance, LGBTQ
Rating: 4 Stars
Reviewed by Nymphaea

For Jake, losing his eyesight isn’t nearly as frightening as having to rely on someone else. Especially if he wants that other person to be his lover. He was taught from an early age that being gay is synonymous with being a sissy and he can’t see past that lesson to the one Tyler is trying to teach him.

Tyler has been attracted to Jake since they first met. When Jake comes to Tyler’s bed, it seems all of Tyler’s dreams are coming true. Except Jake doesn’t want more than friends with benefits. Can Tyler stand being Jake’s second choice?

Why do characters have to make things harder than they have to be? Tension and drama, of course!

I love a good Emily Carrington story and this one was no different than her others–it was great. The characters are tender, sweet and have quirks. The writing moved along well and I did have the feels through this story. I’m glad I read it, even if it’s nowhere near Christmas.

Jake and Tyler have been friends a long time and Jake’s crushed on Tyler almost the entire time. He’s also having to deal with the loss of his site and the issue of being told being gay is not good. It’s like being a sissy. Talk about a lot to heap on a person. He feels unlovable and unworthy of Tyler, but he wants him. But Tyler wants him, too. He can’t understand why Jake might not want him. It’s a lot of questions and concerns that will take a bit to sort out…but it’s also Christmas.

I loved these characters. They’re relatable. I’ve never lost my site, but the author did a great job of explaining and letting the reader feel how Jake did. I also liked, though it made me want to bonk his adoptive parents on the head, how he had to deal with the issues from his past. It made him stronger. I also loved Tyler. He’s strong and just what Jake needs–if he’s willing to ask for it.

If you’re looking for something hot and sweet, but perfect for a chilly night, then this is the one for you. Check it out, but be prepared for the feels. It’s great.

Love & Moonshine by Aliyah Burke


Love & Moonshine by Aliyah Burke
Publisher: Totally Entwined
Genre: Contemporary, Erotic Romance
Rating: 4 stars
Reviewed by Nymphaea

Going home can be the best medicine.

Country boy Colum Boyle has been home to work the family farm for a while now. He’s shocked when he’s sent to pick up his sister’s best friend for a wedding, and he realizes he’s never gotten over her.

Veterinarian Xaya Asher isn’t sure all the mental preparation in the world has her ready to face Colum again. The sparks between them are combustible and soon the flames erupt.

Do these two have what it takes to overcome the obstacles before them?

Steam, second chances and heart.

I have read other books by Aliyah Burke and I’ve never been let down. The streak continues. This book was fantastic and I couldn’t put it down. I had to know what would happen next and got emotionally involved with the characters.

I love a good redemption story and this one fit the bill. Colum never felt good enough for Xaya and he knows his limits. He also knows he’s attracted to her. He can’t keep away from her. I liked his ability to be sweet and still goof up. He’s relatable and human, which was great for the hero. Xaya loves him and always has. Now that she’s got to be in close contact with him, she sees him for who he is–the man who loves her. I loved how they gave each other a run for their money. They were perfectly matched, even if they drove each other nuts.

If you’re looking for a book that’s got lots of heart, heat and one that you won’t be able to put down, then this is the one for you.

Complicating Roy by Megan Slayer


Complicating Roy by Megan Slayer
Publisher: Pride Publishing
Genre: Contemporary, Erotic Romance, LGBTQ
Rating: 3 stars
Reviewed by Moonflower

Complication doesn’t always have to be a bad thing.

Duke Charles needs a break. He’s tired of life on the road and never having a place to settle down. He decides to head to Norville for a rest in his childhood home. Once there, he realizes his life isn’t quite so relaxed—he’s not only inherited the house, but a cat to go with it. When his friend from high school sends him on a date, he finds out how complicated life can be…in a good way.

Roy Mars likes his life as an artist. He paints, sells work and takes his cat, Raphael, for walks through Norville. He channels his emotions into his art…until he goes on a date and meets Duke. His uncomplicated life gets thrown into chaos, not least because Duke has rabid fans who insist on knowing every detail of his life.

Can Roy handle a little complication in the form of Duke, or will he quit before he finds his forever?

When social media runs your life, you sometimes have choices to make.

Duke is the drummer in a famous band who has been on tour constantly for the past 15 years. He needs some time away to get his head back on straight. Roy is famous in his own way as an artist. They get set up by the fairy godmother of Norville, James, and fall victim to insta-lust followed by insta-miscommunication.

I much preferred Duke in this story to Roy. Duke is relatable, he has his issues and has worked/is working on them. Roy seems more along the lines of ‘this is me, deal with it.’ As with book one, there were storylines that didn’t seem to go anywhere – with Ted and with the Mayor. It will be interesting to see if these are picked up in future books.

This is a low-angst book that moves at a fast pace, continuing along the lines of book one. It was a good read, but I would prefer it to be a bit more in-depth with the characters as they felt sort of wooden in places. An enjoyable read that I enjoyed and have no hesitation in recommending.

Falling for Vince by Megan Slayer


Falling for Vince by Megan Slayer
Publisher: Pride Publishing
Genre: Contemporary, Erotic Romance, LGBTQ
Rating: 4 stars
Reviewed by Moonflower

Are second chances possible when the first chance never really happened?

Vince Rhodes has loved Cody Burrows for years, but he’s never been bold enough to ask him out. This wallflower is ready to make a move, so he enlists the help of James, the resident stylist at Dye Hard Style and unofficial matchmaker, to hook him up with his crush. Vince is betting it all on Cody giving him a chance, but will he?

Cody Burrows has admired Vince since they were both in high school. While he was the solid athlete unable to come out, Vince showed his rainbow proudly. Now they’re both older and wiser…and matched up by James. Will Cody allow himself to be free with Vince and find his heart’s delight or will he keep the barriers around his heart forever?

Maybe falling for Vince is just what Cody needs…

Who doesn’t love a second-chance romance?

Cody and Vince went to school together. Vince had a crush on Cody but didn’t act on it. Cody was attracted to Vince but was in the closet at school so just watched from afar. When fairy godmother James gets involved, they meet up and move forward.

These books have been a little formulaic with the beginning. They meet James, who gives them a time and date at Club Jester. They go, they meet, they dance, they misunderstand a situation, they leave, only to try again and succeed. Saying that, this one is my favourite of the bunch. The relationship between Cody and Vince seemed more ‘real’ somehow, as though their relationship from school could be expanded and adjusted to fit them as they are now. I loved how Cody and Vince encourage each other along, giving each other boosts, not knocking them down.

As with the others, it is low-angst with a HEA. A sweet read, perfect for a coffee or lunch break. Recommended by me.

Hero by Jamie Targaet


Hero by Jamie Targaet
Publisher: Changeling Press
Genre: Contemporary, Erotic Romance
Rating: 4 Stars
Reviewed by Dicentra

Jade — I came back to town because my grandmother passed away and she was the only family I had left. Grams never wanted me involved with the MCs, but I always knew my father was a member. That was all I knew about him. Now he’s the president of Hounds of Hell MC. Or, as it turns out, he could also be the president of their rival MC, the Cottonmouths. Hounds of Hell MC sent one of their men, Hero, to keep me safe until my parentage gets figured out. No one is telling me why that’s necessary. I should go back to Providence. But I’m done with grad school, and there’s really nothing for me back there. And Hero is one beefy, gorgeous temptation of a biker. Part of me wants to stay here, in the home where I grew up. Part of me just wants him.

Hero — When my prez gave me the babysitting assignment to keep an eye on the daughter he’s never known, I resented it. Until I got a look at her. Choosing me to protect her was the right call. The Cottonmouths took her from me once. No one is taking her away from me again — no matter who has to die. I don’t care who her father is. Jade is mine.

Fans of Christine Feehan’s Torpedo Ink series or Harley Wylde’s Reckless Kings will find themselves falling in love with Jamie Targaet’s Hero just as much as I did.

Jade only came back to town to attend her grandmother’s funeral. Despite her wishes for a simple trip, she ends up finding herself smack dab in the middle of a feud between two motorcycle clubs (which her grandmother had warned her away from for years). Will she be able to escape with her life, or will she lose her head (and her heart) in the midst of all the alliances, betrayals, and questions about the truth of her parentage?

A quick read at roughly 90 pages, Hero and Jade’s relationship goes from zero to sixty very quickly. I loved it. The story doesn’t employ a lot of worldbuilding with its short length, so this is a very character-driven tale. Hero certainly lives up to his name and embodies that role when he saves Jade from the rival club. The moments between them always felt very authentic – the author makes it quite clear how bad of a situation Jade finds herself in, and why she needs help (she’s not just some ditzy damsel in distress). All of the motorcycle club romances that I’ve read deal with darker themes (TRIGGER WARNING: references to human trafficking and prostitution), and Ms. Targaet doesn’t shy away from that in this book. But there are also the brighter moments in the story that help to balance things out, and I really appreciated that.

Overall, an entertaining and quick read. If you like stories that feature heartwarming romance and alpha bad boys with a heart of gold, then you will love Jamie Targaet’s Hero. This is supposed to be the first book in the Hounds of Hell motorcycle club series, so I’m excited to see what other members and prospects the author will feature in the future.

The Love Token by Raven McAllan


The Love Token by Raven McAllan
Publisher: Totally Entwined
Genre: Historical, Erotic Romance, Action/Adventure, Mystery/Suspense/Thriller
Rating: 4 stars
Reviewed by Nymphaea

Spies, smugglers, scandals. Stealth, seduction and sex. All they had to do was decide which was theirs to take and what had to be earned. And hope they reached their happily ever after.

Jonathon, Viscount Carville, soldier, spy and would-be lover of Miss Miranda Riston, has accepted a mission to discover who is smuggling contraband into East Yorkshire. Her papa, however, is convinced Jonathon is dead, and wishes her to marry elsewhere. Miranda refuses and is delighted to find Jonathon is very much alive but working undercover on behalf of the British Government.

More is at stake than just a few shillings of tax duty owed.

Among their close friends and acquaintances there is a traitor working against the crown on behalf of Emperor Napoleon. Danger threatens as they seek to discover the identity of their treacherous foe.

Who is an innocent pawn? And who is not all they seem?

What’s better than heat and high seas excitement? This book!

I’ve read other books by Raven McAllan and loved them. When I saw this one, I knew I had to read it. I’m glad I did. The story moved at a great clip, the writing kept me enthralled and I couldn’t put it down. I couldn’t stop thinking about the characters after the last page, too.

Miranda and Jonathan have great chemistry. I loved their take-charge attitudes and the way their romance leapt off the page when they got together. The heat certainly was there, and I couldn’t get enough. I loved the way they worked together, and the ending was fantastic.

The tag suggests spies, smugglers and stealth. It also suggests bedroom antics. It delivers. If you’re looking for something hot, historical and fun, while full of suspense, this might be the one for you.

Absolute Zero by Desiree Holt


Absolute Zero by Desiree Holt
Publisher: Totally Entwined
Genre: Contemporary, Erotic Romance, Mystery/Suspense/Thriller
Rating: 4 stars
Reviewed by Nymphaea

Sex, murder, cover-up…a lethal combination.

Fourteen days until Sierra Hunt’s brother is sentenced to life in prison for a crime he didn’t commit and the cover-up is so outrageous it’s almost unbelievable. Sierra had no way of knowing that the man with whom she had an explosive one-night stand would hold the answer to her desperate need.

Vic ‘Eagle’ Bodine wanted more than the unexpected one night with the woman who rocked his world. He was shocked when she turned out to be Galaxy’s newest client, and that they’d be joined at the hip as they worked to save her brother from an unjust imprisonment.

Galaxy will need to live up to its motto of We are your last resort for this one, the mother of all cover-ups. But Eagle is going to make damned sure that he gets it done…and at the same time convince Sierra that they belong together.

Mystery, suspense and romance…because this is a Desiree Holt book and that’s what it should have.

I’ve read other books by Desiree Holt and loved them. This one was no different. It had passion, heat, heart and suspense. I couldn’t get through the book fast enough and loved every second. As with the author’s other books, I knew I’d get a happy ending and would walk away satisfied.

Sierra and Eagle are great together. I liked the way they got together. Some authors might have struggled with this timeworn way to get characters, but Desiree Holt made it feel fresh. They have a great chemistry and I rooted for them.

The heat was off the charts and the thriller aspect of the book delivered. If you’re looking for a story that’s got heart, heat and mystery, then this is the one for you. Recommended.