Recent Reads: How My Neighbor Stole Christmas by Meghan Quinn

How My Neighbor Stole Christmas by Meghan Quinn 
Series: How My Neighbor Stole Christmas #1
Publisher: Bloom Books
Publication Date:  October 15, 2024

 

Format: Ebook
Source: Kindle Unlimited

Rating:


Goodreads Synopsis: 

A new winter holiday, enemies-to-lovers romance, from the undeniably funny and always spicy, USA Today bestselling author, Meghan Quinn.

Living in a year around Christmas town has it's drawbacks. The caroling, the decorations, the insanely cheery spirit, it never disappears. It's why I like to hibernate away in my cave--I mean house--keeping a healthy distance from the holly jolly spirits.

And all was going according to plan until my nemesis, Storee Taylor, moved in next door to care for her Aunt Cindy. Without blinking, she turned my simple world into a real nightmare-before-Christmas, especially when she decided to enter the town Christmas Kringle contest - which she was determined to win.

Well guess what? Over my cold-hearted body.

There was no way I was going to let her win, not after the history we'd shared.

So despite my promise to myself of never participating in the sickening Christmas season, I entered the competition as well. That's right, I planned on beating Storee at her own game by pretending this grump’s heart grew three sizes this season.

And it was working until feelings between us started heating up.

We pretended to date.

We kissed.

And well, sparks flew from there.

Which led to one explosive night involving Christmas lights, the competition, and a ladder. Don't let me convince you who stole Christmas, I think you need to find out for yourself...

Review: 

I was in the mood for something light and wanted to chip away at my TBR pile, so I finally picked up this KU book that has been sitting in my list forever.

In the story, Storee and her sister are forced into (essentially) Christmas town when their Aunt Cindy breaks her hip. She needs someone to help her out and also take her place in the Joyous Christmas Kringle Contest. 

Told in alternating POVs between Storee and Cole (Cindy's neighbor and Storee's former friend), the story quickly dives into bickering and the enemies to lovers setup. Cole is so mad at Storee for things she said over a decade ago as a teen and decides she is not contest- worthy and Storee is confused but determined to win for her Aunt.

I enjoyed this one, it has a "he falls first" vibe, with great enemies to lovers tension, and a touch of secret romance. Atlas, Cole's best friend, was amazing as a side character and comic relief for the story. It was just cute, really shared a love for Christmas and traditions, and just had a cozy feel. Just what I needed. 

The only reason this wasn't a full five-star read for me is that the spice ramped up around the 60% mark and started to overshadow the plot. If that’s your thing, you’ll probably love it, but for me, it took away from the story just a bit. 

Overall, if you are looking for a spicy Christmas romance with heart and humor, this is a funny one to check out.

Recent Reads: Wild Side by Elsie Silver

Wild Side by Elsie Silver 
Series: Rose Hill #2
Publisher: Lyric Audiobooks
Publication Date:  March 4, 2025

 

Format: Audiobook
Source: Bought/ Own

Rating:


Goodreads Synopsis: 

I’d always dreamed of my wedding day. But not like this. Not looking into the eyes of the man who betrayed me.

But when my nephew’s guardianship is contested, I decide I’ll do whatever it takes to keep him in Rose Hill. Even if it means marrying the enemy.

Rhys Dupris.

A man who is secretive, broody, and completely infuriating. A man whose work takes him away for weeks on end and brings him back covered in mysterious bruises—ones he won’t talk about. In fact, we barely talk at all.

Which would be fine, except when he’s not talking, he’s staring. And the way he looks at me is borderline indecent.

The tension between us has always been palpable. But living under the same roof is a dangerous temptation.

I swore I would never forgive him. But that was before I knew the man behind the mask. The one who’s fierce and protective. The one who’s gentle and patient. The one who shows up for us when we need him most.

He’s not at all who I thought he was.

And that makes hating my husband so much harder… and loving him just a little too easy.

Review: 

I have loved this series so far, and upon adding this book to my read list realized there was another one coming (score!).

The characters in these books feel so realistic, except that all the men and women are hot. They all have their emotional damage for various reasons and they work through some of it in these books, all while finding love.  They also all involve kids in various circumstances as well. 

In this installment, Rhys and Tabitha are vying for custody over her nephew Mico after her sisters passing. Tabitha is his aunt, but Rhys was named in the will. In the initial chapters, it was really hard to read - so emotional. Tabitha is angry at herself, at her sister, and she is confused. Rhys is quiet and not sure how to react to Tabitha. 

This one is enemies to lovers, forced proximity, fake marriage and a lot of banter. Once they hit it off it is spicy and it all comes together so beautifully. 

Recent Reads: Deep End by Ali Hazelwood

Deep End by Ali Hazelwood

Publisher: Berkley 
Publication Date: February 4, 2025 

 

Format: Paperback
Source: Bought/ Own

Rating:


Goodreads Synopsis: 

A competitive diver and an ace swimmer jump into forbidden waters in this steamy college romance from the New York Times bestselling author of The Love Hypothesis.

Scarlett Vandermeer is swimming upstream. A Junior at Stanford and a student-athlete who specializes in platform diving, Scarlett prefers to keep her head down, concentrating on getting into med school and on recovering from the injury that almost ended her career. She has no time for relationships—at least, that’s what she tells herself.

Swim captain, world champion, all-around aquatics golden boy, Lukas Blomqvist thrives on discipline. It’s how he wins gold medals and breaks records: complete focus, with every stroke. On the surface, Lukas and Scarlett have nothing in common. Until a well-guarded secret slips out, and everything changes.

So they start an arrangement. And as the pressure leading to the Olympics heats up, so does their relationship. It was supposed to be just a temporary, mutually satisfying fling. But when staying away from Lukas becomes impossible, Scarlett realizes that her heart might be treading into dangerous water...

Review: 

~~TBR Pile Pull~~

In Deep End, competitive diver Scarlett Vandermeer is laser-focused on recovering from an injury, getting into med school, and avoiding any romantic distractions. Lukas Blomqvist, a world-champion swimmer and Stanford’s swim captain, is equally committed to discipline and Olympic dreams. When a shared secret pulls them into each other’s orbit, they agree to a no-strings fling—one that quickly gets complicated as real feelings begin to surface.

I really enjoyed the dynamic between Scarlett and Lukas—Ali Hazelwood knows how to build tension and chemistry, and the banter between these two was spot-on. One of the things I consistently appreciate in Hazelwood’s writing is her sharp, clever dialogue, and this book delivered on that front. While this story leans more into the world of student athletics than STEM, I liked that there were still nods to the academic side, keeping it in line with Hazelwood’s brand.

This book felt a little different from Hazelwood’s typical swoony romances—it had a solid pace, satisfying relationship build-up, and some nice character development. However, there were a few things that pulled me out of the story. Pen, the best friend, was overly involved in the relationship and mentioned far too often; it became distracting and a bit irritating. The kink element, while clearly central to the relationship, felt pretty tame and occasionally veered into cringey territory. I also found myself wanting more emotional depth from both leads. Still, the “he falls first” trope and engaging banter kept me hooked, and overall, I found it to be an enjoyable read.

Recent Reads: The Wrong Game by Kandi Steiner

Source: From the publisher and Edelweiss in exchange for an honest review. This in no way alters my opinion or review. 

The Wrong Game by Kandi Steiner 

Publisher: Arndell
Publication Date: June 17, 2025 

 

Format: Ebook


Rating:


Goodreads Synopsis: 

Two season tickets.

One genius idea.

Zero interest in a relationship.

The plan is simple: a brand new, hot, preferably funny, definitely single male will fill one of those seats for every Bears game at Soldier Field. And I’ll fill the other.

I can’t think of a better way to use the season passes I’d bought for my ex-husband. I am a woman of plans, and this one’s foolproof.

Until Zach Bowen offers to be my practice round.

He’s infuriating. Presumptuous and overbearing. And absolutely, undeniably gorgeous. Any woman with a heartbeat would be attracted to him, and mine picks up speed every time he speaks.

But as I said, I’m a woman of plans — and I’m not backing down on this one.

One night. One game. And then, his time’s up.

He can try to change the rules, but here’s the truth: he can’t win if he’s playing the wrong game.

The Wrong Game is a stand-alone, angsty, enemies-to-lovers sports romance.

Review: 

The Wrong Game was a thoroughly enjoyable rom-com that hit many of the right notes for me — witty banter, lovable characters, and a satisfying emotional arc, all wrapped up in a standalone package (which I greatly appreciate in all books).

Though marketed as an enemies-to-lovers, it leans more toward a he-falls-first dynamic, which I adored. Zach Bowen is an absolute swoon-fest — romantic, persistent in the best way, and always ready with a grand gesture. Watching him patiently chip away at Gemma’s walls was as heartwarming as it was entertaining.

Gemma, for her part, is wonderfully complex. Her emotional guardedness makes sense as the story unfolds, and while the prologue feels a bit older than the characters’ stated age (early 30s), it ultimately adds depth to her journey. Her friendship with Belle is also hilarious. I found myself laughing out loud more than once at their sharp, snappy exchanges, that are over the top and often graphic.

Told in dual POV, the book does a great job of letting readers fall for both leads. The emotional vulnerability across the cast, not just in the central romance, added depth without bogging the story down. The plot is predictable in a cozy, familiar way, which worked for me. And yes, there are some open-door spicy scenes for those who like a bit of heat with their heart.

All in all, this is a fun, feel-good read with just enough angst to keep things interesting. If you're in the mood for a low-stress romance with humor, heart, and a big dose of charm, The Wrong Game is well worth picking up.

Recent Reads: Wild Eyes by Elise Silver

Wild Eyes by Elsie Silver  

Series: Rose Hill #2
Publisher: Bloom Books
Publication Date:  September 3, 2024 

 

Format: Audobook
Source:  Bought/Own

Rating:


Goodreads Synopsis: 

A rugged mountain town seemed like the perfect escape from a life in shambles. But on day one I ran full tilt into the world’s hottest single dad and now all my plans are ruined.

As a chart-topping country singer with a recent streak of bad press it’s hard to find any peace. But I find it in Rose Hill. With a little boy and a little girl who steal my heart just as thoroughly as their dad.

Weston Belmont.

The man is a shameless flirt. He oozes confidence and masculinity in a way that’s downright distracting. And in bed? He’s addictive.

Everything with him is wild and impulsive and I’m desperate to regain some control.

But no one has supported me like West does. And no one has ever made me feel as loved as he does either.

So, while my brain says settling down with a small-town horse trainer is impossible… my heart says I’m right where I belong.

Still, my life as a celebrity haunts me. It has the power to pull us apart.

I can see in his eyes that wants me to stay. And I want that too.

But I know better than anyone that we don’t always get what we want.

Review: 

It was the first line that secured this book on my TBR list... "The sun is shining, the lake is sparkling, and there's another f***ing tourist on the side of the road trying to get a selfie with a bear."

Returning to the charming small-town of Rose Hill introduced in book one, Wild Eyes weaves a fresh story with new characters while still tying into the larger series in a satisfying way. I loved seeing familiar threads connect across the books—it adds an extra layer of depth to the world Silver is building.

This romance hit so many of my favorite tropes: forced proximity, small-town life, mutual emotional damage, and that irresistible dynamic where he falls first. Weston and Skylar’s chemistry is undeniable, and the dual point of view gives readers a full emotional picture of their journey. I especially appreciated how we got to see inside both of their heads as they navigated their vulnerabilities and growing feelings.

I loved the inclusion of West’s kids. Their scenes added both heart and humor, with several laugh-out-loud moments that brought warmth to the story. The parenting aspect didn’t just round out West’s character, it elevated the relationship and character growth for both of them.

I listened to the audiobook version and have to shout out the narrators, who brought both Skylar and Weston to life beautifully. Their performances captured the emotional nuance and spark of this story perfectly.

If you enjoy small-town romances with emotional depth, strong character dynamics, and a bit of humor, Wild Eyes is such a fun ride.

Recent Reads: Wild Love by Elsie Silver

Wild Love by Elsie Silver  

Series: Rose Hill #1
Publisher: Audible Audio
Publication Date:  April 9, 2024

 

Format: Audiobook
Source: Bought from Audible

Rating:


Goodreads Synopsis: 

Rosie Belmont has been driving me wild for years. The good kind of wild. The bad kind of wild. But mostly the kind of wild that comes with wanting your best friend’s little sister and knowing you can’t have her.

After living in the city, she comes blasting back into Rose Hill like a storm. Beautiful, messy, and chaotic.

And one wide-eyed desperate plea for a job is all it takes for me to hire her.

Forbes may have labelled me the World’s Hottest Billionaire but all I care about is opening my new recording studio. Something that comes to a screeching halt when I end up face-to-face with a young girl who claims I’m her biological father.

Now I spend my days balancing business with parenting a sullen twelve-year-old all while trying desperately to keep my hands the hell off my best friend’s little sister.

I vow to keep Rosie at arm’s length. I try to stick to scowls and grumpy one-liners. But with her verbal sparring is merely foreplay—friction that turns to blistering heat.

I know damn well I shouldn’t cross that line.

But shouldn’t and can’t are two very different things.

And the only thing I truly can’t do is resist her.

Review: 

Trigger warnings: sexual harassment, cancer, death, grief/loss, depression.

This book was an absolute blast to read! The banter between Rosie and Ford (aka the grumpy billionaire) was sharp, witty, and so much fun—it felt like a seductive build-up in the best way. I loved the childhood "they hate each other" dynamic, which set the perfect foundation for all the tension and sparks flying later on.

The story is told in alternating POV, Rosie and Ford, and the audiobook has dual-narration as well. I loved both the readers.  Rosie is a firecracker in pink—independent, sarcastic, and unapologetically herself, even when life gets messy. She knows what she wants and isn’t afraid to fight for it, adding depth and charm to every scene. Opposite Rosie's sunshine, Ford is the ultimate grumpy billionaire—private, brooding, and constantly scowling. But beneath that tough exterior is a man who's been hopelessly in love with Rosie for years. His struggle to resist her, while trying to manage his life and newfound fatherhood, adds the perfect mix of tension and vulnerability.

The best friend's younger sister trope was done pretty well. The "we shouldn't" element added that delicious layer of forbidden tension, making every interaction feel loaded. Ford practically losing his mind the entire book over Rosie and everything she said and did was alluring.  When they finally crossed that line? Total swoon—and definitely spicy! The tension build was just right, keeping me hooked and rooting for them to finally give in.

Plus, the subplot with the surprise twelve-year-old daughter added an emotional depth that rounded out the story. Watching Ford juggle parenting, business, and his intense pull toward Rosie made the stakes feel real.

If you love a romance with sizzling tension, laugh-out-loud banter, and a swoon-worthy payoff, this is one to pick up!

Recent Reads: Pucking Ever After Vol I and II by Emily Rath

Pucking Ever After Volume I and Volume 2 

Series: Jacksonville Rays #1.5 and #2.5
Publisher: Emily Rath Books
Publication Date:  April 23, 2023 & Nov 22, 2023

Format: Ebooks
Source: Kindle Unlimited

Goodreads Synopsis- Volume 1:

From the Amazon Bestselling Jacksonville Rays Hockey Series comes a Happily Ever After novella full of spice, laughter, and so much love.

Curious to know what happened to Rachel and the guys after that fateful hockey game in LA? PUCKING EVER VOL 1 provides readers with a six-chapter peek into the future of Team Price. Bonus content in this volume spans four years after the end of PUCKING AROUND.

"Show me all the ways I'm yours."

"I would bury myself in you, wife. No beginning. No end."

"Mars, if this is your baby, please don't name him Flörp."

PUCKING EVER VOL 1 is a special collection of bonus scenes meant to be read after PUCKING AROUND. It is a spicy 'why choose' hockey romance. A list of tropes and tags can be found at the author's website.

  

Goodreads Synopsis- Volume 2:

From the International Bestselling Jacksonville Rays Hockey Series comes a second Happily Ever After novella!

PUCKING EVER VOL 2 provides readers with SEVEN new chapters of happily ever after content. This volume spans five years and includes swoony and spicy HEA stories for both the Price Family (PUCKING AROUND) and Tess & Ryan (PUCKING WILD).

"Come on daddy...don't make me beg."

"I can't breathe for wanting you. I have no pride left."

"Mars...do you love me?"

PUCKING EVER VOL 2 is a special collection of bonus scenes meant to be read after PUCKING WILD (book #2 in the Jax Rays hockey romance series). A list of tropes and tags can be found at the author's website.

   

 

Review: 

As a follow-up to the main books, these two volumes of short stories are an absolute delight. Packed with sharp, witty banter and a chaotic energy that keeps the pages turning, they offer readers a whirlwind of emotions in bite-sized narratives. 

The multiple POVs from both Pucking Around and Pucking Wild bring depth and variety, allowing glimpses into the lives and thoughts of the beloved characters while keeping the storytelling dynamic and engaging.

These short stories are perfect for fans of the previous books, offering a mix of humor, heat, and heartfelt moments that expand on the world and relationships established earlier. They’re also a must-read for those who enjoyed the first installment of the series, an MMMF steamy romance that introduced this intriguing universe of messy, passionate, and unforgettable characters.

With their fast-paced, playful tone, these volumes feel like a love letter to readers who’ve grown attached to the series’ unique blend of steam, drama, and humor. If you’re craving more of the banter, chaos, and emotional depth that made the earlier books so captivating, these stories won’t disappoint.

Volume 1 includes: Jake's Ice Cream trick, Emergency Contact, Up in the Air (spicy airplane time), Ikea (Mars; worst nightmare), Paternity Test #1 and King of the Ice.

Volume 2 includes: Dark Devil (Karaoke night), Turks and Caicos (Tess/Ryan), Waiting Part 1 (Tess), Waiting Part 2 (Ryan), No Exit, and The Dentist parts 1-2 with Mars and Caleb.

Recent Reads: Pucking Wild by Emily Rath

Pucking Wild by Emily Rath  

Series: Jacksonville Rays #2
Publisher: Emily Rath Books 
Publication Date:  August 21, 2023

 

Format: Ebook
Source: Kindle Unlimited

Rating:


Goodreads Synopsis: 

Tess Owens is a confident, 33-year-old plus-sized divorcee daring to start her life over in a new job in a new city. In the process, she meets Ryan Langley, starting forward for the NHL’s Jacksonville Rays. Sure, he’s cute, in a puppy at the beach kind of way. But he’s ten years younger than her, and they have nothing in common.

But to Ryan, Tess is his dream girl. He’s ready to do anything to show her that age doesn’t matter, our pasts don’t define us, and just sometimes, two wrongs can make a right.

PUCKING WILD is a spicy MF hockey romance with positive plus size and bisexual representation. This is book two in the Jacksonville Rays series.

Review: 

I wasn't planning on continuing this series, but to understand all the stories offered in Puck Ever After Vol 1 and II, I needed to read this one. So here we are.

Pucking Wild is in the same world as Pucking Around, with the Jacksonville Rays hockey team. In this installment, we follow Tess and Ryan. Tess is Rachel's bestie trying to leave her cheating, abusive husband and life behind. Ryan is the young forward of the team, trying to make his way in the hockey world.

The story delivers a captivating blend of steam, tension, and emotional depth, centering on Tess, who is determined to escape her toxic marriage and Ryan, a young, earnest hockey player who unexpectedly becomes her refuge. The story leans into a classic will-they/won't-they dynamic, heightened by forced proximity that keeps the sparks flying.

The chemistry between them is undeniable, though their immediate, love-at-first-sight connection may feel a bit rushed for some readers. Both characters are deeply flawed, particularly when it comes to communication and their ability to trust, which adds layers of frustration and authenticity to their relationship. The steamy moments are balanced with heartfelt glimpses into their vulnerabilities, making for a compelling read.

While the narrative occasionally skates (pun intended!) over deeper explorations of their pasts, it still manages to capture the emotional journey of breaking free from abuse and finding hope in unexpected places. Fans of angsty, steamy romance will likely enjoy this one, though those looking for slow-burn development may find it less satisfying.

Recent Reads: Pucking Around by Emily Rath

Pucking Around by Emily Rath 
Series: Jacksonville Rays #1
Publisher: Emily Rath Books
Publication Date:  March 20, 2023

 

Format: Ebook
Source: Kindle Unlimited - Borrowed

Rating:


Goodreads Synopsis: 

When an ambitious sports medicine practitioner scores her dream job working for Jacksonville’s hottest NHL team, she knows the last thing she should do is get tangled up with a player. After all, how could she choose just one?

My name is Rachel Price, and two months ago I walked away from The Perfect Man—sweet, funny, and so sexy he should be illegal. We shared one magical night. No names. No strings. I never thought I’d see him again. I was wrong.

As it turns out, Mr. Perfect is the playboy grinder for the Jacksonville Rays, the NHL’s hottest new hockey team . . . and thanks to the ten-month fellowship I just landed, I’m his new physical therapist. Imagine my anticipation as those familiar muscled legs walk towards me, the way my pulse races as he reaches out to . . . shake my hand. The jerk doesn’t even recognize me!

This is going to be the longest ten months of my life. Because now Mr. Perfect Mistake is determined to use his every seductive trick to win me back. Meanwhile, I also have to contend with his best friend the surly team equipment manager, and an exasperatingly stubborn, superstitious goalie who’s convinced I’m his good luck charm.

This is my chance to prove myself, and I’m not risking it for anything. But between one unexpected night, and one secret revealed, these men are ready to test all my limits. Still, I can’t fall for a player—let alone three. Or can I?

Review: 

As with book .5, Book 1s rating is for enjoyment not writing... and it is smut at parts.

This installment in the series cranks up the heat, humor, and heart to deliver a romance that’s as unconventional as it is irresistible. Rachel Price is back, and this time, she’s juggling her dream job as a sports medicine practitioner for the Jacksonville Rays with the complicated affections of three very different men.

The witty banter I loved in the novella is here in full force, keeping the tone light and playful even as the story dives into deeper emotional territory. The chemistry between Rachel and her three love interests—two hockey players (including a familiar face from the first book) and the gruff but endearing equipment manager—is off the charts. Each man brings something unique to the table, and the dynamic between them feels natural and full of affection.

The romance is undeniably steamy, with scenes that sizzle and a slow build of trust and connection that makes the group dynamic believable. What impressed me most, though, was how much love and care the story gave to every character. It’s not just about the physical attraction; it’s about the emotional bonds they form as they navigate their complicated feelings for one another.

The story also explores Rachel’s personal growth, as she balances her ambition with her desire for love and connection. The conflicts she faces feel authentic, and her journey is as compelling as the romance itself.

If you’re a fan of unconventional love stories, witty dialogue, and characters you can’t help but root for, this book is a must-read. It’s a bold, unapologetically steamy story that’s full of heart and humor, and I couldn’t put it down.

Recent Reads: That One Night by Emily Rath

That One Night by Emily Rath

Series: Jacksonville Rays #0.5
Publisher:  Emily Rath Books
Publication Date:  March 1, 2023

 

Format: Ebook
Source: Kindle Unlimited - Borrowed

Rating:


Goodreads Synopsis: 

My name is Rachel Price, and the sky is officially falling. Imagine being at your brother's wedding brunch when you get an email that crushes all your dreams. I didn't win the Barkley Fellowship. My rising career in sports medicine has just come crashing down. So here I sit, alone in this swanky hotel bar, ready to drown my feelings in bitters and bourbon. Then suddenly, in walks...

Review: 

Rating is for enjoyment not good writing... because let's be honest here, the writing is rough. I will also disclaimer that this is just a one night stand and very much smut. 

If you're in the mood for a novella that combines sizzling chemistry, clever banter, and a touch of intrigue, this story delivers in spades. Rachel Price, a driven sports medicine doctor, finds herself at a crossroads when her career aspirations take an unexpected hit. Enter the mysterious and magnetic stranger at the hotel bar—a man who just so happens to be a professional hockey player.

The premise is simple but engaging: two people keeping their true identities hidden while sparks fly. The witty dialogue is a standout, with Rachel and her hockey-playing counterpart exchanging quips that had me laughing out loud. Their connection feels genuine, with a mix of playful tension and heartfelt moments that become this one night of fun. 

What I appreciated most was how the story balanced its steamy elements with emotional depth. Rachel's struggles with her career and self-worth add layers to her character, making her more than just a romantic lead. Meanwhile, the hero's charm and vulnerability make him equally compelling.

While the novella's brevity means plot points are resolved quickly, the fast pace works for the genre. It's an entertaining escape that doesn’t overstay its welcome. If you are planning to read the Jacksonville Rays series, this is a good start and explains a lot going into book one, that said it isn't necessary.

Recent Reads: Queen of the Night by Elizabeth Muse

Queen of the Night by Elizabeth Muse  

Publisher: ABO Publishing, LLC
Publication Date:  January 22, 2022 

 

Format: Ebook
Source: Freebie from a Stuff your Kindle day

Rating:


Goodreads Synopsis: 

Frankie Baxter knows what it means to lose everything. Because once upon a time, she did. And being the oldest daughter of a mafia Don means going nowhere unguarded. Too bad she’s run off anyone who might stand a chance at keeping her safe.

Now, even a quiet night out with her girlfriends requires she spend some quality time under the watchful eye of the last remaining bodyguard willing to risk his neck to babysit, her ex-best friend, Charlie Morrow. The only man on Earth who seems to delight in pushing every single one of her buttons.

Not that any of that matters, though, when one of the Five Families, a rival organization hellbent on a hostile takeover of her father’s territory, comes for her, forcing her and Charlie to head to the one place nobody is brave enough to attack: her grandmother’s house.

Five days. One impromptu road trip. A mountain of secrets. And sexual tension so blistering it threatens to scar whoever makes the first move.

Of course, unlocking the vault of whispered conversations and previously classified family lore isn’t all it’s cracked up to be for Frankie. Especially when her best friend, turned enemy, turned lover, is a werewolf who’s been keeping her at arm’s length for her own safety.

Turns out a night with the big bad wolf never looked so good.

Review: 

Frankie is a mob-boss daughter, her brothers were murdered in front of her, and she is barely hanging on to her sanity. Her best-friend, who had always been around for all of them, wasn't there to help and wasn't there afterward either. She is even more pissed about that fact when he is assigned to be her babysitter/bodyguard now that she can go out again. While out they have to go on the run.

This is a mafia/werewolf/ romance  - it is spicy and short and was a quick read. 

Frankie is just a brat, Charlie has his guard up most of the time, but you can tell he cares for Frankie even though she is being a pain. Frankie really is just living through her grief being so angry.  

While the writing wasn't anything spectacular, the story/ spice/ will-they-wont-they elements were what kept me reading. The werewolf add-in was an interesting one and I am not sure it was nessesary but here we are, iot was weird, but worked. This short book was lots of emotion, fun and funny, and the dialogue was very entertianing. 

If you are looking for a shorter romance and like a mafia focus, this might be for you. (but it is spicy!)