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scoodle42's reviews
742 reviews
Drown In It by T'Lyn
adventurous
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? No
5.0
Willow took a late night trip to her new friend's apartment, and ended up in the wrong place. But Rakeem takes one look at her and decides she might have the right place after all.
Okay, so this was a nice little fast paced, good time. I love the way they came together--it was unique and I never read it before. Rock and Willow were sexy, and as hot as fish grease. I also loved the way Rock applied the pressure. Willow was nervous, but she was able to shake it off with some reassurance and I was glad. Her jealousy seemed a little out of place considering how they met, but I still liked her. This was a great story.
Okay, so this was a nice little fast paced, good time. I love the way they came together--it was unique and I never read it before. Rock and Willow were sexy, and as hot as fish grease. I also loved the way Rock applied the pressure. Willow was nervous, but she was able to shake it off with some reassurance and I was glad. Her jealousy seemed a little out of place considering how they met, but I still liked her. This was a great story.
Only If It's You by T'Lyn
challenging
emotional
funny
tense
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated
4.0
Kehlani and Javyous get married on a whim. But with JV trying to rebuild his image, and get his boxing career back on track, his camp implores her to stay married to him. But with his stable of women and her unstable BD, can they find the time to fall in love for real?
Okay, these two were both nerve wracking in their own ways and quite honestly deserved one another, lol. Kehlani as a single mom was a great, complicated character and I enjoyed her spirit, even when her decisions made me pause. Her kids were too cute. Watching JV turn into a family man was a good process, lots of hijinks and drama. The two of them made it through though.
I thought JV's women and Lani's BD did way too much with too little and that could have been dialed back some, but I did love the MCs connection and their love.
Okay, these two were both nerve wracking in their own ways and quite honestly deserved one another, lol. Kehlani as a single mom was a great, complicated character and I enjoyed her spirit, even when her decisions made me pause. Her kids were too cute. Watching JV turn into a family man was a good process, lots of hijinks and drama. The two of them made it through though.
I thought JV's women and Lani's BD did way too much with too little and that could have been dialed back some, but I did love the MCs connection and their love.
Dance For You by T'Lyn
emotional
funny
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? No
4.5
Dionne dances to work her way through school and give her son the best life possible. One night, in walks Javario and his crew and he takes an interest in Dionne, as a woman. And after he meets her and her son in his barbershop, that interest is solidified. But can they get past Javario's hard demeanor, Dionne's hyper independence, and both of their hesitation to trust?
Okay, so Javario has a rough mouth and an even rougher demeanor and that almost took me out of this, but he managed to balance it out. I actually ended up liking him more and more. The extended family dynamic in this book is so good. I love the side story about Row's dad and also loved that his family was able to keep a piece of his brother after everything happened. Dionne was fierce and strong, a good mama and about her business and her money. I love how she stood up for herself and her choices. Girl Melanie played both sides for too long and I was glad when Dionne got rid of her. Row has his unhinged moments and I gasped at some and laughed at others. Their fallout made me sad, but Row's dad's words had me feeling like Dionne, ready to fight for him, lol. It was a good ride, and I would take it again anytime with this these characters.
Okay, so Javario has a rough mouth and an even rougher demeanor and that almost took me out of this, but he managed to balance it out. I actually ended up liking him more and more. The extended family dynamic in this book is so good. I love the side story about Row's dad and also loved that his family was able to keep a piece of his brother after everything happened. Dionne was fierce and strong, a good mama and about her business and her money. I love how she stood up for herself and her choices. Girl Melanie played both sides for too long and I was glad when Dionne got rid of her. Row has his unhinged moments and I gasped at some and laughed at others. Their fallout made me sad, but Row's dad's words had me feeling like Dionne, ready to fight for him, lol. It was a good ride, and I would take it again anytime with this these characters.
Content Warnings
Moderate: Violence
I'll Be the One by T'Lyn, T'Lyn
emotional
funny
hopeful
inspiring
reflective
medium-paced
4.75
MyKyng Masters is the new head of his family, and an arranged marriage is the best way to solidify both his business interests and his position. Then one day, he gets a call from a sperm bank, saying sperm he donated had resulted in a baby, and that bay was sick, and needed him. Then he meets the mother, Destiny Harris. And suddenly, the family he didn't think he needed, bceomes the one he alwayas wanted.
Okay, the first Master's book pulled me right in and didn't let go. I love the premise of this; it's one I hadn't read before and I like the concept of finding a long last dad who didn't know he had a baby. The author did a really good job of building Kyng and Destiny's chemistry from the beginning. I love how Destiny never let anything keep her from fighting back and moving forward. She forged a new life and went through whatever measure she had to for her baby. Kyng was a dad from Day One and it was adorable. His family rallying around him gave the book a feel good vibe.
Kyng's entanglements were dramatic enough that you felt the weight of the changes he had to make, but not so overpowering that you missed him and Destiny falling in love. Solei having so much support and Destiny's family and coworkers being so present made it cozy. I wish we had spent a touch more time in her bakery and exploring that passion, but I still love this book.
Okay, the first Master's book pulled me right in and didn't let go. I love the premise of this; it's one I hadn't read before and I like the concept of finding a long last dad who didn't know he had a baby. The author did a really good job of building Kyng and Destiny's chemistry from the beginning. I love how Destiny never let anything keep her from fighting back and moving forward. She forged a new life and went through whatever measure she had to for her baby. Kyng was a dad from Day One and it was adorable. His family rallying around him gave the book a feel good vibe.
Kyng's entanglements were dramatic enough that you felt the weight of the changes he had to make, but not so overpowering that you missed him and Destiny falling in love. Solei having so much support and Destiny's family and coworkers being so present made it cozy. I wish we had spent a touch more time in her bakery and exploring that passion, but I still love this book.
Content Warnings
Moderate: Chronic illness
The Knight Brothers by Dria Andersen
emotional
funny
hopeful
lighthearted
mysterious
tense
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? No
5.0
In To Her Rescue, Mason steps in to help his best friend Celine retain her inheritance and wrangle her feuding money hungry relatives. It doesn't hurt that she's his mate and he has no issues being tied to her forever.
In For Her Safety, Silas has been focused on finding his long lost daughter, and then he does. But her adopted mother Mila proves to be unshakeable for him too, and with threats coming their way, Silas has to protect his family.
I loved Mason and Celine so much. Y'all know I love a good nickname and the minute he called her "Lovebug' it was a five star read, lol. The way he stepped up to give her what she needed, and left room for her to still control her own life showed he was self-aware and his love was real. Celine slowly falling into what she knew was her destiny all along was fun to watch and Dria knows how to write passion because you could feel it. And it was effortless. Her family deserved a lot worse than Mason did and would do, but I was glad he was there to neutralize them. They were incredible.
Silas and Mila were a delightful push/ pull that gave just the right amount of tension and angst. As much as I wanted Silas to have his daughter back, the last thing I wanted was for Mila to lose her, so it was captivating to read how it unfolded. I love how patient Silas was, and how connected his baby was to him. And I love how he worked with Mila's anxieties and dealt with the obstacles keeping them from their child's happy life, and theirs together. Their fall was slower, but still very passionate and I loved seeing Mila try to resist what Silas knew was true. The family dynamic and everyone gathering around Silas to support him was pretty wonderful too.
This book had a bonus story starring Dallas and Adina, Mason and Silas' parents. Let me tell you how I didn't know if I loved the daddy more after I finished. Dallas and his gangsta were such a swoony highlight, and the way he knew how to stand beside and behind his very capable woman was a lesson in love. Adina knew her power, and used it for good. And knew her husband only had eyes for her, and hands for her enemies. It was so cute. I love the Knights.
In For Her Safety, Silas has been focused on finding his long lost daughter, and then he does. But her adopted mother Mila proves to be unshakeable for him too, and with threats coming their way, Silas has to protect his family.
I loved Mason and Celine so much. Y'all know I love a good nickname and the minute he called her "Lovebug' it was a five star read, lol. The way he stepped up to give her what she needed, and left room for her to still control her own life showed he was self-aware and his love was real. Celine slowly falling into what she knew was her destiny all along was fun to watch and Dria knows how to write passion because you could feel it. And it was effortless. Her family deserved a lot worse than Mason did and would do, but I was glad he was there to neutralize them. They were incredible.
Silas and Mila were a delightful push/ pull that gave just the right amount of tension and angst. As much as I wanted Silas to have his daughter back, the last thing I wanted was for Mila to lose her, so it was captivating to read how it unfolded. I love how patient Silas was, and how connected his baby was to him. And I love how he worked with Mila's anxieties and dealt with the obstacles keeping them from their child's happy life, and theirs together. Their fall was slower, but still very passionate and I loved seeing Mila try to resist what Silas knew was true. The family dynamic and everyone gathering around Silas to support him was pretty wonderful too.
This book had a bonus story starring Dallas and Adina, Mason and Silas' parents. Let me tell you how I didn't know if I loved the daddy more after I finished. Dallas and his gangsta were such a swoony highlight, and the way he knew how to stand beside and behind his very capable woman was a lesson in love. Adina knew her power, and used it for good. And knew her husband only had eyes for her, and hands for her enemies. It was so cute. I love the Knights.
Content Warnings
Moderate: Violence
Heartstrings by Jas B
dark
emotional
funny
tense
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? It's complicated
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? No
4.0
Essex is a man who doesn't play about the things he wants. He's also a talented musician. He meets musician and music teacher Haven, and doesn't play about her either. But is she ready for all that comes with him. Meanwhile, her brother Phoenix runs right into his future, Essex's sister Cove, but all she wants is a baby, not a relationship. So he has to convince her to see a future too.
Okay, this story made me fall out. Essex coming with his instrument when it's time for him to end you was hilariously unhinged. I liked how he was focused about Haven, and wanted her to know he was serious. Her past coming back to haunt her in the way it did was unexpected and I hated that it came between them because I didn't think it should have. And Haven having her off moments too made me feel even more like they were meant to be. It was one of those books where everyone was a little off and that made it entertaining and funny.
i knew Phoenix wasn't going for Cove's temporary entanglement and I was glad he pressed the issue. The things Cove was working through were real and added to the emotional solidness of the plot and the book A lot of it was shenanigans, but it did have some emotional moments and I appreciated them. Cove and Phoenix were good together and I loved his willingness to stand up for her. Their clash about her temper and reactionary nature was a real tense moment in the book and for me because I cringe at men thinking they can tell women what to do, but you could tell Phoenix had her best interest at heart and wanted to love her as herself.
Either way, i enjoyed this very much. There were minor errors, but still very much a great book.
Okay, this story made me fall out. Essex coming with his instrument when it's time for him to end you was hilariously unhinged. I liked how he was focused about Haven, and wanted her to know he was serious. Her past coming back to haunt her in the way it did was unexpected and I hated that it came between them because I didn't think it should have. And Haven having her off moments too made me feel even more like they were meant to be. It was one of those books where everyone was a little off and that made it entertaining and funny.
i knew Phoenix wasn't going for Cove's temporary entanglement and I was glad he pressed the issue. The things Cove was working through were real and added to the emotional solidness of the plot and the book A lot of it was shenanigans, but it did have some emotional moments and I appreciated them. Cove and Phoenix were good together and I loved his willingness to stand up for her. Their clash about her temper and reactionary nature was a real tense moment in the book and for me because I cringe at men thinking they can tell women what to do, but you could tell Phoenix had her best interest at heart and wanted to love her as herself.
Either way, i enjoyed this very much. There were minor errors, but still very much a great book.
Taming Kane by Tessa Stone
adventurous
emotional
mysterious
tense
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? No
5.0
Tami ran away to Wintermoon, after hearing of her roommate's boyfriend's plans to force her into sexual encounters with him and his friends. Wintermoon is a town of shifters and other supernatural beings and Tessa is desperate to feel safe. Then she gets into an accident and finds that she's landed in the safest arms possible... her fated mate.
I loved this book. the curse element and the ancient lore was almost too much, but I went back and took my time with it and I liked that aspect too. Their town being a haven for supernatural beings was great and I love the small town element. And when I tell you Kane was obsessed???? He didn't want to share Tami with anyone and it was really funny and cute. He was serious about his mate, almost to the point of falling out of favor with his family. That part was a little extreme and I hate that his brother treated him like that but I guess it's part of their dynamic. Gabe was great comedic relief and I love that he was so protective too. Tami's backstory was a bit heavy, but not too much so and Kane was the protective force she needed. Their trust building was believable and of course, they were hot. I love this one.
I loved this book. the curse element and the ancient lore was almost too much, but I went back and took my time with it and I liked that aspect too. Their town being a haven for supernatural beings was great and I love the small town element. And when I tell you Kane was obsessed???? He didn't want to share Tami with anyone and it was really funny and cute. He was serious about his mate, almost to the point of falling out of favor with his family. That part was a little extreme and I hate that his brother treated him like that but I guess it's part of their dynamic. Gabe was great comedic relief and I love that he was so protective too. Tami's backstory was a bit heavy, but not too much so and Kane was the protective force she needed. Their trust building was believable and of course, they were hot. I love this one.
Content Warnings
Moderate: Violence
Minor: Sexual violence
Forever Tru by K.C. Mills
challenging
emotional
funny
hopeful
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? No
5.0
Tru is a photographer, hired to a do a last minute job for Cassius Avery, producer extraordinaire. But a rocky beginning has her never really wanting to see him again, despite her attraction. But Cash is just as attracted... and he isn't going away.
I love this book. I love that the characters had so much nuance, so many reasons why they were the people they were. And that the author took the time to let that unfold. They were complicated people, but their love was easy--it's my favorite kind of romance, really. Tru held back, but she had good reason, and going at her pace paid off for her. Cash was focused and intentional without being pushy, and he was honest about every part of his situation. His struggles with loving wholly were felt, but I wish he'd been able to vent some of the resentment for BOTH his parents. His mothers choices were her own, but the way she still clung to Cash made those choices continue to affect him and I wish she would have owned that. His father got off easy considering, but i was happy he was able to be honest after so many years.
Cash making the hard choices for his daughter and laying his cards on the table for his ex were key parts of him that I appreciated as the story went on. Tru's family dynamic was less complicated, but still impactful. It was a nice balance after everything Cash had going on. Dro deserved worse. I love to see controlling men get put in their place. The families joining was a nice touch and I love that they knew it was right and went with it.
This story was unexpected, in the best possible way. It had wonderful pacing, and I was happy Cash and Tru kept it together. It made things balanced. Loved.
I love this book. I love that the characters had so much nuance, so many reasons why they were the people they were. And that the author took the time to let that unfold. They were complicated people, but their love was easy--it's my favorite kind of romance, really. Tru held back, but she had good reason, and going at her pace paid off for her. Cash was focused and intentional without being pushy, and he was honest about every part of his situation. His struggles with loving wholly were felt, but I wish he'd been able to vent some of the resentment for BOTH his parents. His mothers choices were her own, but the way she still clung to Cash made those choices continue to affect him and I wish she would have owned that. His father got off easy considering, but i was happy he was able to be honest after so many years.
Cash making the hard choices for his daughter and laying his cards on the table for his ex were key parts of him that I appreciated as the story went on. Tru's family dynamic was less complicated, but still impactful. It was a nice balance after everything Cash had going on. Dro deserved worse. I love to see controlling men get put in their place. The families joining was a nice touch and I love that they knew it was right and went with it.
This story was unexpected, in the best possible way. It had wonderful pacing, and I was happy Cash and Tru kept it together. It made things balanced. Loved.
Content Warnings
Minor: Miscarriage and Abortion
Her Solid Ground by Shameka S. Erby
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? No
5.0
All I See Is You by Nek Mills
emotional
funny
hopeful
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Plot
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? No
3.5
3.5 rounded up for Goodreads
Dyson's life was taken from him by his own mother's selfishness and he was sent away. But Aubrie never forgot how he helped her when he could. And now he's home. All he wants is to build a life for himself. But he sees Aubrie again. And he knows she needs to be part of that life.
This was a cute story. Aubrie and Dyson were destined to be in each other's orbit and I loved that. The family drama was big and sometimes overshadowed the romance in this for me, but it was engaging and compelling enough to follow along. I love that she worked with plants and food and it connected back to Xavier and Xander, along with the truck driving. The only thing that stuck in my craw was that it was framed as a marriage of convenience but it didn't really need to be. By the time she needed him as a husband, they had pretty much fallen for each other already. And then they both expressed that they had feelings for each other, and wanted to be together, but after the wedding, Aubrie was still in her head about being his "friend," as though they hadn't already passed that. It was... a little confusing. But it was a cute story, nonetheless.
Dyson's life was taken from him by his own mother's selfishness and he was sent away. But Aubrie never forgot how he helped her when he could. And now he's home. All he wants is to build a life for himself. But he sees Aubrie again. And he knows she needs to be part of that life.
This was a cute story. Aubrie and Dyson were destined to be in each other's orbit and I loved that. The family drama was big and sometimes overshadowed the romance in this for me, but it was engaging and compelling enough to follow along. I love that she worked with plants and food and it connected back to Xavier and Xander, along with the truck driving. The only thing that stuck in my craw was that it was framed as a marriage of convenience but it didn't really need to be. By the time she needed him as a husband, they had pretty much fallen for each other already. And then they both expressed that they had feelings for each other, and wanted to be together, but after the wedding, Aubrie was still in her head about being his "friend," as though they hadn't already passed that. It was... a little confusing. But it was a cute story, nonetheless.