February Anticipated Reads

It's February!

A new month is upon us, and a new month means NEW BOOKS!

This month there are eight books that I am eagerly anticipating. There had been a couple more, but they were pushed back by the authors. Which I completely understand. They'll just continue to be on my anticipated release radar.

So what books am I excited for?

1. Caught by Elise Faber

This is the 15th book in the Gold Hockey series, and it's a must read. Get ready for this love at first sight story with two amazing characters who have been hurt by previous partners.

2. Ruin by Caitlyn Dare

This is River's story. If you read the Savage Falls Sinners series, then you'll recall River. She was the quiet one in the background hooking up with Jax. BRING IT ON!

3. Breach Point by April Canavan

This is the second book in the Birch County Fire series, and I'll pretty much read anything set in the Birch County world.

4. Saving Jen by Ellie Masters

I don't even know what to expect from this book! I've read all the others in the series, and so it's just natural to anticipate the next. I'm hoping it's as good as the others!

5. Up in Smoke by Kate Meader

A firefighter romance? Yes please! That's all I know. That's all I need to know right now. I love her hockey series, so bring on the firefighters.

6. The Edge of Redemption by Kristin Turnage

Do I even need to talk about this book? About this series? I'm obsessed. OBSESSED I'm telling you. Jace and AJ's story has the potential to be my favorite of the month.

7. Terms and Conditions by Lauren Asher

Loved the first book in the Dreamland Billionaires series, and have high expectations on this next installment.

8. Getting Gold by Xavier Neal

I haven't read the first book in this series yet (Saving Silver), but it is waiting on my kindle for me. I need to read that before I can read Getting Gold. But I do want to try out a little more PNR, so this will be a good gateway. What I do know is that I've heard amazing things about the first book, and the teasers for the second have my curiosity piqued.

What new releases are you looking forward to in February? There are a lot of books coming out, so I'm sure I've missed a few.

Laura

Caught by Elise Faber {a review}

Caught by Elise Faber is now available! If you know me, you know that I LOVE the Gold Hockey series. I fell hard from the first book, and these characters now feel like family. So when I was presented with the opportunity to read an early copy of Caught, I was all over it.

We originally met Charlie in Crashed when his sister, Scarlett, had tried fixing him up with her friend Fanny. Scarlett thought they'd make a great couple, but if you've read Crashed, then you know that Fanny was all about Brandon. No one else would measure up to him. Anyways, in this book we catch up with Charlie. He has recently returned from South Korea, and he came back with a broken heart. It isn't that simple though, as Charlie and Ji-Ho worked together, and Ji-Ho has just transferred to the San Fransisco office. This has Charlie on edge, and he is avoiding Ji-Ho as much as possible. With his mind running at warp speed, he is just looking to escape from his seat at the hockey game (Ji-Ho is in the suite next to where Charlie is). So as he's in flight mode he runs right into Goldie, the team mascot.  It is in that moment that Charlie and Kacee meet for the first time. Kacee just wants to get away because she is sweaty from the costume, and she knows she smells horrible. Yet Charlie isn't backing away. Scarlett will catch us up on why he isn't having issues. Anywho...What happens next has these two becoming fast friends, and eventually rolling that into a relationship. That relationship isn't without issues though. Kacee has been hurt in the very recent past, and she's just trying to make it through from day to day. So when there's a flood at her house, she panics. Thankfully Charlie happens to be there, and helps her out. Can Kacee be there for Charlie when he needs her the most? Can she still love him once she learns of his most recent relationship? Then there is Ji-Ho, and the chaos they are bringing.

Caught is another wonderful book set in the Gold Hockey series. I fell for Charlie and Kacee almost immediately, and then bringing back the familiar faces just made it all feel so comforting. These characters have a soft spot in my heart, and I love when we can catch up with previous characters. Caught gave us that option when Charlie asked Scarlett for a spare television. Scarlett then took that request, and elevated it to the Gold family who came out in droves to help out. It was the team that showed Kacee what a family they truly are, and how they take care of their family members. Kacee has been adopted by the team, and they are not letting her go. 

Charlie and Kacee are two people who have been hurt by their previous partners, so both are on edge. Yet here they are trying their best to push forward, and claim their happily ever after. Although there are forces at work that are trying to destroy their efforts. Some are outside forces, and others are internal battles. Charlie and Kacee see each other through panic attacks, accepting assistance, and just being a positive force in each other's lives. They lift each other up, and help them see the other side of things. Kacee also fills Charlie in on her past, and that helps him to know her better. He understands why she lives the way she does, and how she is trying to better the situation how ever she can. Kacee also let's Charlie know that she is a safe place to land. That when he's ready to talk, she's there for him.

Because he felt like her safe landing in the stormy sea. An anchor, a pier, something to tie herself to, for however long it took for the storm to pass.

I will say that I loved how the team rallied around Kacee, and gave her a sense of normalcy. As well as a family to call hers. This group is just incredible. From the banter, to the support, to the judgement free space, just all of it. This found family is amazing.

"You're important, Kacee. You're a part of this team--you're family."

Throughout the book I was trying to figure out what Charlie's ex had done, and when it finally came out, I was crushed. I want to expand on that character, and their scenes together, but I can't because spoilers. Just know that there is a trigger warning when it comes to Ji-Ho, and when you read their first scene together, I think you'll get it. When everything was finally revealed, I was so thankful that Charlie had people in his corner. These people didn't question him about it. They witnessed bits and pieces, and did what needed to be done.

As for the moment of conflict between the two, I wasn't expecting that. Looking back, now that I know the full story, I can see how it was building. But as I was in the moment, it took me by surprise.

Also, loved the set up for the next book! But at the same time it has me a bit bummed because it's the end of an era for another OG character. Yet at the same time I know I am going to love Josh and Jess. I can feel it just based off the little tidbit we had in this book. 

If you've read the Gold Hockey series, or you are just a hockey romance fan, you need to read Caught. Remember, this is an interconnected series, so you don't have to read them in order. It's just my preference. :) I'm also going to push for you to read the entire series if you haven't already. I've loved them all. 

If you're wondering about my rating, I gave it 4 stars over on Goodreads. Loved the story, and obviously loved the characters. All of them. Well except Ji-Ho. Ji-Ho can kick rocks.

Thank you for taking the time to read my thoughts about Caught. I hope that you will go pick up a copy. You're going to fall for Kacee and Charlie.

Laura

Cover Art: Jena Brignola

It had been love at first sight…or at least love at first sight of a toppling, glittering, unfortunately-shaped mascot.

Semantics.

Charlie had been spending time in San Francisco with his sister—who was a publicist for the San Francisco Gold hockey team. And by spending time with her, he meant he was licking his wounds and trying to pretend that he hadn’t just had his heart broken.

But it was really hard to pretend he was fine when he was surrounded by happy couples.

He didn’t know what the hell was in the water, but the freaking Gold seemed to breed happy endings like some people bred…horses? Hot house roses? A never-ending supply of hard seltzers in his fridge?

Whatever. The point was that he’d been alone and heartbroken…

Until that giant, glittering gold mascot had toppled over, its head falling off to reveal the woman within.

To reveal Kacee.

Add to your Goodreads TBR!

Available on all platforms!

Meet

USA Today bestselling author, Elise Faber, loves chocolate, Star Wars, Harry Potter, and hockey (the order depending on the day and how well her team—the Sharks!—are playing). She and her husband also play as much hockey as they can squeeze into their schedules, so much so that their typical date night is spent on the ice. Elise changes her hair color more often than some people change their socks, loves sparkly things, and is the mom to two exuberant boys.

She lives in Northern California. Connect with her in her Facebook group, the Fabinators or email her at elisefaberauthor@gmail.com.

Connect with Elise!

Website | Facebook | Facebook Group | Instagram | Twitter | Newsletter | BookBub

Thank you to Elise Faber, and Elle Woods PR, for providing me with an early review copy of Caught.

Monthly Wrap Up

January was a pretty phenomenal month when it came to reading. There was a weekend that I was forced to ignore my kindle. We were out of town visiting family after having been delayed at Christmas due to being quarantined. So, I had been sharing a hotel room with my youngest two, and my "baby" told me she can't sleep with a light on so I needed to turn off my book. Darn kid.

In the month of January, I still managed to read 19 books. I did the math and that equated to roughly 5,293 pages. I say roughly as I didn't have a page count for Thrill, as it was a free download from the author's website.

I managed to read 4 sports romances, 2 rockstar romances, 2 fire fighter romances, 2 greek mythology romances, and many many more. A series finale was read, I continued a few series, and I started a few. All in all it was a wonderful month.

What was my favorite of the month? Ooh, good question! That honor is going to Break Me Down by Nola Marie. Ryder's story is so intense, and I had been eagerly anticipating it for quite a while. Really the count down to his story began the moment I was introduced to him.

Here are all the books that I have read in January. If a review has been written (and published), it is linked. 

Our Finest Hour by Jennifer Millikin

Sincerely the Puck Bunny by Maren Moore

Shattered Desires by Victoria Ellis

Decker: Changing the Play by Kayley Loring & Connor Crais

Broken Boys Break Hearts by JB Heller

The Baby Proposition by Kim Loraine

Break Me Down by Nola Marie

Ignited by Sierra Hill & SE Rose

Thrill by S Masssery

Green Envy by Aleatha Romig

Broken Boys Fight Harder by JB Heller

Thief by S Massery

Rookie by Laramie Briscoe

Notes on Love by Naaz Spencer

My Famous Frenemy by Piper Rayne

Broken Boys Despise Deceit by JB Heller

The Joker by Ashley Munoz

Caught by Elise Faber

Soft Like Thunder by Julia Wolf 

What did you read in January? Did you have a favorite? Any anticipated reads for February? I have quite the list, and will share those tomorrow!

Laura

The Joker by Ashley Munoz {a review}

 

The Joker by Ashley Munoz is now available! This is the third, and final, book in the Rake Forge University series and it will demand your attention. You do not want to miss out on this frenemies to lovers mafia romance.

Ooh, what a story!

If you've read the previous two books in the series, then you know that Kyle has been working with his Uncle Scotty for a while now. You also know that it felt a bit suspicious, and you just had this feeling that he was up to no good. Well, The Joker fills us in on what exactly Kyle has done, and what the plan for the future is.

As the story starts, Kyle and Rylie are finishing up their senior year of high school. They are having fun, doing all the usual things, and have created a plan for the summer. Yet in the back of Rylie's mind, she knows that Kyle is hiding something, and it isn't sitting right with her. Still though she continues on, and they move forward with their original plan. One thing to note is that Rylie has been in love with Kyle for as long as she can remember. Deep down she knows he is her person, but she assumes he doesn't feel the same. Flash forward to shortly before college starts. Kyle appears at Rylie's house one night, and they spend a steamy night together. When Rylie's parents arrive home the next morning, Kyle leaves. But he doesn't just leave her house, he leaves the country! We see Rylie continue on with her college plans. We see her grieve the relationship. We see her grieve a loss. We see her working at an establishment that is known for having the local mafia families in attendance. Then we also see her visiting her dad. So basically she's moving on with her life to the best of her ability. Then one day, Kyle's back. Except she doesn't fully realize it's him at first. Yet she feels the connection, the draw. As for Kyle, he immediately knows that it's Rylie. He'd know her anywhere. From here on out, things pick up speed, and it is a wild ride.

I honestly wasn't sure how invested I was going to be in Rylie and Kyle's story. We had only seen small glimpses of them in the previous two stories, so I didn't "know" them. Yet here I am having recently finished the story, and I absolutely loved their story!

From their pact for the summer before college, to the heartache, to the reunion, to all the drama, it was just fantastic.

The storyline with Rylie's dad? OH MY WORD. Dang. I mean I kind of saw that coming, but at the same time I didn't see it at that level. So that was something.

If you've read the previous two books in the Rake Forge University series, then you need to read Kyle and Rylie's story to see how everything plays out.

I gave The Joker 4.5 stars on Goodreads. Seriously so dang good, and the amount of action was amazing. Ashley Munoz did a fabulous job with this book, and really the entire series. Kudos.

Thank you for taking time to read my thoughts on The Joker. Please go read this book! Then come talk to me about it.

Laura

Cover Design: Amanda Simpson @ Pixel Mischief Designs

Kyle James cashed in my V card and then disappeared like I was the finishing act in a magic show.

I vowed to hate my best friend, turn the longing and secret obsession with him into toxic hate and maybe a poorly chosen tattoo.

But as the years passed, I let go of any notions I'd ever see him again...until he sauntered on campus my senior year as a new transfer student.

All of Rake Forge was obsessed with his inked skin and that darkness that seemed to seep out of every methodical step he took.

I wasn't. I knew the boy underneath, and while I wanted to know where he'd been...I would never ask.

Until my dad needed a favor. His team required a way in with my ex-best friend and his contacts.

I knew Kyle would see through it...but I went anyway.

Suddenly, my world, made of black and white was bleeding color...and he was at the center, daring me to trust him.

My heart, blind and foolish chose to not only trust but to love him too.

I really should have known better.

I was merely a way in for my father, and for the man, I loved...I was just a way out.

One Click NOW!

Add to your Goodreads TBR!

New to Rake Forge University? Start from the beginning:

One Click | Goodreads | Review

One Click | Goodreads | Review

Meet Ashley Munoz

Ashley was born in Nebraska, but raised in Oregon where she lives with her four children and husband. If she's not helping her husband with DIY projects around the house, she's writing or sneaking off to a corner to read.

Connect with Ashley

Facebook Page | Reader Group | Instagram | BookBub | Goodreads | Amazon | Newsletter Sign Up | TikTok

Hosted by:

Thank you to Ashley Munoz, and Wildfire Marketing Solutions, for providing me with an advanced copy of The Joker.

Caught by Elise Faber {teaser}

Caught by Elise Faber releases on February 1st! Caught is the FIFTEENTH book in the Gold Hockey series. Fifteen. That is just wild.

Get ready for this instalove story between Charlie and Kacee. It's going to be intense. I just know it.

It had been love at first sight…or at least love at first sight of a toppling, glittering, unfortunately-shaped mascot.

Semantics.

Charlie had been spending time in San Francisco with his sister—who was a publicist for the San Francisco Gold hockey team. And by spending time with her, he meant he was licking his wounds and trying to pretend that he hadn’t just had his heart broken.

But it was really hard to pretend he was fine when he was surrounded by happy couples.

He didn’t know what the hell was in the water, but the freaking Gold seemed to breed happy endings like some people bred…horses? Hot house roses? A never-ending supply of hard seltzers in his fridge?

Whatever. The point was that he’d been alone and heartbroken…

Until that giant, glittering gold mascot had toppled over, its head falling off to reveal the woman within.

To reveal Kacee.

Preorder now!

Add to your Goodreads TBR!

Meet

USA Today bestselling author, Elise Faber, loves chocolate, Star Wars, Harry Potter, and hockey (the order depending on the day and how well her team—the Sharks!—are playing). She and her husband also play as much hockey as they can squeeze into their schedules, so much so that their typical date night is spent on the ice. Elise changes her hair color more often than some people change their socks, loves sparkly things, and is the mom to two exuberant boys.

She lives in Northern California. Connect with her in her Facebook group, the Fabinators or email her at elisefaberauthor@gmail.com.

Connect with Elise!

Website | Facebook | Facebook Group | Instagram | Twitter | Newsletter | BookBub