His to Keep (Lake Fortune #2) by L.K. Farlow

 

The last thing I expected was to find safety in the arms of my enemy. Ellis Wilder is the bane of my existence. As my ex's best friend, I know he feels the same way. Luckily, ignoring him, his stupidly good looks, and sharp tongue is all too easy. What I can't ignore are the anonymous love letters that seem to follow me everywhere I go. But when they turn from sweet to sinister, I know I need help. Unfortunately, I can only think of one man for the job. Ellis is a protector down to his core and while he doesn't like me, I know he'll keep me safe. Except his idea of security is forcing me to live under his roof, where he can keep an eye on me 'round the clock. Being so close to him is as enthralling as it is suffocating, and before I know it, we're toeing the line between hate and something far more dangerous. Because the closer we get, the more I can't help but wonder...His to Keep by L.K. Farlow was published on July 12th, 2026. This is the second book in Lake Fortune series. 

I was given this book for my honest review from L.K. Farlow and The Smuthood. This was the first book that I have read in the series as well as from this author. Though, I did feel a little like I am lost at the beginning it ended up not making a huge difference in the book. I really liked this book. While it has a very slow beginning to it  by the middle of the book things pick up. Though, I really didn't like how everyone was treating FMC throughout the book. I wanted to give the poor girl a hug and tell her that none of it is her fault. I also had a hard time seeing MMC and FMC have a relationship towards the end of the book. I felt like it started to rush their relationship and they were too different from each other. Though the dialogue in the book was great and I can't wait to read more from this author soon. 

Quotes that I Loved 

"Well, as much fun as watching y'all's budding bromance is, I'm out." 
"This isn't an airport, Scarlet. No need to announce your departure." 

"Sounds like security detail for your girl is a great first gig with us."
"Two problems.....One, she's not my girl.....And two, she hasn't hired you."
"Not yet..."
"Not yet to what?"
"All of it, man. All of it." 

"I've been fucking ready. Now, be a good boy and eat me out." 

"....Smother me with your pussy, Princess." 

Lake Fortune Series 

1. His to Save 

2. His to Keep 

Tropes 

Enemies to Lovers 

Forbidden

Forced Proximity

Just Between Us (The Kings #3) by Lena Hendrix

 

Five minutes in his small town and I knew he was going to be nothing but trouble. He's an arrogant, tattooed playboy with a secret, and I'm the woman tasked with quietly cleaning up his family's mess. I never dreamed he could be the mysterious stranger behind my hidden, late-night messages. It doesn't matter what he says or how hard he tries to get under my skin. I won't break. Not for him. Not for anyone. But when our secrets are exposed, all bets are off. He knows the rules - just a little fun exploration. Nothing more. But one lesson leads to another...and another...and soon I realize that he's set out to break every rule I've ever put into place. I refuse to find myself melting under his gaze or swooning at the way he makes the noise around us quieter. I can handle men like him. Everything will be fine as long as we can keep this just between us. Just Between Us by Lena Hendrix was published on October 15th, 2024. This is the third book of The Kings series. 

I was given this book for my honest review from Lena Hendrix and The Smuthood. I also will have to admit I have not been able to read the first two books of this series though I didn't feel like I needed to for this book. I thought this book was slow to start up. It was hard for me to get into the characters till after the midpoint of the book. There were even a few times I almost dnf the book. Though, I am glad that I stuck in there as the book picked up rather quickly. I really liked toward the end of the book the dynamics between the two main characters. Though the characters still needed to be well rounded I felt like I had an easier time liking them. I will say this though, there were times I felt like the two main characters had no reason that they were together. The plot is great and I liked how it wasn't entirely focused on the romance aspect of the story. I recommend checking this book out. 

Quotes that I Loved 

"I don't need your help."
"I never thought you did. Doesn't mean I don't like taking care of you all the same." 

"What the fuck, dude?......You're just sitting there like a bald guy in a turtleneck. Let's go." 

"Spread your legs. Show me what's mine." 

The Kings Series 

1. Just This Once 

2. Just My Luck 

3. Just Between Us 

4. Just Like That 

5. Just Say Yes 

Tropes 

Small Town 

Forced Proximity 

Secret Relationship

Enemies to Lovers 

Grumpy Sunshine 

He Falls First 

Tethered Love (Silver Saddle Ranch #3) by Ann Einerson

 

No one plans on accidentally getting pregnant by their best friend's grumpy older brother. Heath is too hot, too serious, and absolutely has no business being the star of my fantasies. I thought our banter over the years was the closest to foreplay we'd ever get. Until the romance of a wedding and unexpected flirtations lead to a night tangled in the sheets together. It was supposed to be a no-strings-attached, years-in-the-making romp that we'd ever get. It was all going to plan until I saw those two pink lines. What I didn't count on was Heath getting down on one knee and popping the one question I never thought I'd hear coming from his mouth. But he has something I need, so a marriage of convenience is a means to an end. Who says romance is dead? Except Heath has a way with words and cares for me in ways I've never experienced. Not to mention his plans for our upcoming bundle of joy, or how every touch reminds me of that night when his name fell from my lips. Soon, playing house starts to feel natural, and I find it hard to picture my life without him. One night might have tied us together, but will it be enough to keep us from unraveling the knot? Tethered Love by Ann Einerson was published on July 17th, 2026. This is the third book in the Silver Saddle Ranch series. 

I was given this book for my honest review from Ann Einerson and The Smuthood.  This is the third book that I have read from Ann Einerson and I have not yet been disappointed. The author has a way to create the plot of the story that flows so well from one scene to the next. This book had no big action scenes but it's a soft flow. It's completely different than say Dark romance tropes. I also love that there is no third-act breakup in the book. Though, I felt like there were times that the author could have slipped it in. This book made me feel a lot of emotions which is perfect on those lonely nights. Also the smut scenes from the very beginning of the book are top-notch. The characters are a little flat but it didn't take away from the book. I highly recommend checking this book out. 

Quotes that I Loved 

"Sure thing, daddy."
"Careful, hellcat. You're playing a dangerous game." 

"Careful, Heath...Keep looking at me like that, and I might start thinking you want to use that paddle of yours on me." 

"I'll make you so damn addicted you'll never want another man's hands on you again." 

Silver Saddle Ranch Series 

1. Wrangled Love 

2. Lassoed Love 

3. Tethered Love 

Tropes

Marriage of Convenience 

Small Town 

Age-Gap

He Falls First 

Enemies to Lovers

Forced Proximity 

Sister's Best Friend 

Hot Mother Pucker (Hollis U #3) by Sarah Smith

 

Briar Bennett has always been my best friend, nothing more. I've had a crush on on her since high school, but we've never crossed that line. Except when she transfers to Hollis U and asks me for a wild favor. Take her V-card and show her the ropes in the bedroom. I agree to show her all the steamy stuff she wants. We promise to stay best friends, despite all the dirty things we do. But the more time I spend in my bed with Briar, the more the lines blur....Soon she's sleeping in my bed every night. She's wearing my jersey and cheering me on the ice. And when I tell her about my secret sexy social media account outside of hockey, she helps me turn it into a life-changing opportunity. When she confesses that she's always had a crush on me too, my whole world turns upside down. I'm falling hard for Briar...I think she's falling for me too. Maybe my beautiful best friend isn't off limits after all. Hot Mother Pucker by Sarah Smith was published on July 13th, 2026. This is book three of the Hollis U series. 

I was given this book for my honest review from Sarah Smith and The Smuthood. I was so excited to be able to review book three of the Hollis U series. I have to say that this was one of the best books of the series. I absolutely loved the two main characters Briar and Blake. Both of the characters I felt like I knew them very well. It was nice to see their friendship was before things got a little complicated. As the author writes about their history in ways of them talking about the past with each other. They also have their own communications that only they understand throughout the book. Which also shows long term friendship that was building over time. I could tell right off the bat that their friendship was becoming more on each page not because the characters were telling out loud. But it was the little subtle things they did for each other. Though, I might catch them more than others since I married one of my friends I had since I was eight years old. This book, reminded me so much of my own relationship. I highly recommend checking this book out you won't be disappointed. 

Quotes that I Loved 

"Actually, even that wouldn't be a deal breaker. You're such a sweetheart that if you did murder anyone, I'd assume they were terrible and they deserved it." 

"Your tongue is dangerous. If I'm not careful, I'm going to get addicted to it." 

"Good fucking girl. Just like that." 

"Giving birth to a baby that looks nothing like me felt like doing all the work in a group project and getting zero credit." 

Hollis U Series 

1. Cocky Mother Pucker 

2. Grumpy Mother Pucker 

3. Hot Mother Pucker 

4. Lucky Mother Pucker (09/14/26)

Tropes 

Friends to Lovers 

Slow Burn

Virgin 

Sports - Hockey 

College Age 

Forced Proximity 

Reckless Seduction (Kavanaugh Crime Family) by Jo McCall

 

Cheated on. Kidnapped. But hey, at least I have a bottle of Whiskey to keep me warm. Bailey Jameson had hit a new low when she found her fiance in bed with her best friend. And apparently not for the first time. Life couldn't get any worse. That was until she suddenly became the captive of a pair of Irish Twins who are set on owning every inch of her. They command her. Own her. Make her feel things she'd never experienced before. Secrets will be revealed. Truths will tear apart everything she has ever known. Can Bailey spy on the man who rescued and raised her or will she betray the only people who ever made her feel wanted? Reckless Seduction by Jo McCall was published on June 4th, 2026. 

I was given this book for my honest review from Jo McCall and The Smuthood. This book had me laughing so much as Bailey has so much inner dialogue. She calls herself so many names and often questions herself through the book. Though, it's all very light hearted in such a dark romance type of book. The plot in this book is great though there are some hiccups in it. It was hard for me to see how Bailey could just easily give in to the twins as you don't really see much of the communication between them through most of the book until the end. Though, there is a lot of passion and a lot of spicy scenes throughout the book. This was a quick read because I couldn't put it down. The characters don't have a lot of personalities especially the guys but it was easy to overlook. I recommend checking this book out. I know I will check out other books by Jo McCall in the near future. 

Quotes that I Loved 

"What the fuck, Bailey? Now isn't the time to be thinking about how handsome his lips are. He's about to fucking kill you." 

"Good girls get rewarded. So open your legs." 

"Your blood pressure is slightly elevated, but that's normal given the situation."

"No? You think?..........I'm kind of curious how many blood pressures you've taken of women who've been kidnapped by two low-life mobsters to just easily brush it away." 

"Reason enough....Now, let's get down to business." 

"To defeat the Huns..." 

Tropes 

Dark Romance 

Forced Proximity

Mafia 

Enemies to Lovers

MFM

Why Choose 

 

Grumpy Mother Pucker (Hollis U #2) by Sarah Smith

 

I can't stand Anna St. George. The bratty and infuriatingly beautiful premed student has always gotten on my nerves, ever since we met in middle school. But one accidental make out changes everything. We've always kept our distance, but after that insanely hot hookup, we can't keep our hands off each other. One problem: she's my teammate's twin sister, which means she's forever off-limits. We agree to be secret friends with benefits, nothing more. I don't do relationships. I'm one hundred percent focused on hockey and being the best goalie at Hollis U so that I'll hopefully get drafted into the pros. But the more time I spend with Anna, the deeper my feelings grow...I'm obsessed with spoiling her in and out of the bedroom. She makes me feel seen and cared for in way I never have before. If her brother finds out about us, he'll destroy me. But I don't care. Anything's worth it as long as I have her. Grumpy Mother Pucker by Sarah Smith was published on May 11th, 2026. This is the second book in the Hollis U series. 

I was given this book for my honest review from Sarah Smith and The Smuthood. I have absolutely loved this series so far. The first book was my first book that I have read from Sarah Smith and so I was excited to read this book. This book did not leave me hanging at all. I actually read it in 24 hours which is a challenge when it's summer and you have four children. I absolutely could not put this book down though. I love the two main characters Anna and Travis. Their chemistry in this book are off the chart from the very beginning. I love when it's enemies to lovers type of books because there is such a fine line between love and hate. The plot in this book will leave you wanting to turn the page from each section. Though I was shocked to see how Anna brother responds to his best friend and sister. I highly recommend checking out this amazing book as you won't be left disappointed. I cannot wait to read book three of the series. 

Hollis U Series

1. Cocky Mother Pucker

2. Grumpy Mother Pucker 

3. Hot Mother Pucker

4. Lucky Mother Pucker (09/14/2026) 

Tropes

Enemies to Lovers

Brother's Best Friend

Secret Romance 

Sports - Hockey 

College 

Grumpy Sunshine 

He Falls First 

For The Win (All for Love #3) by Katie Van Brunt

 

She wants a summer fling. He doesn't think he's worthy of more. Claire Connelly's life was on track - until it wasn't. Ambitious, driven, and ready to conquer Manhattan as a family physician, she never saw the catastrophe coming. Now she's jobless and adrift. When an an opportunity in Upstate New York offers her a break from reality, she quickly accepts. And when a proposition comes next, she's ready for a distraction. A fling. Nothing more. For the Win by Katie Van Brunt was published on May 8th, 2026. This is the third book in the All for Love series. 

I was given this book for my honest review from Katie Van Brunt and Love Notes PR. First off, I should most likely let you know that I did not read the first two books in the series. So, my thoughts are on just this book. Okay, I thought the two characters in this book were a little flat. I felt like a lot of their character development felt rushed and yet it's a very Slow build type of book. I also didn't see much of a connection between the two main characters so it was really hard to see the two of them fall in love. The plot was a cute and didn't have much conflict throughout except conflict vs. self throughout the book. The book didn't give me a WOW factor but I enjoyed reading it. It was just that it didn't grab my attention like I would have liked. Though, I kept reading because I felt like it had something there that kept some attention. But, don't take my word for it make sure you check it out. 

All for Love Series

1. For the Plot 

2. For the Show

3. For the Win 

Tropes

Boss/Employee 

Friends to Lovers 

Forced Proximity 

Small Town 

Best Friend's Brother

Single Parent 

He Falls First 

I'll Be There for You (Lovesick Sinners #1) by Jessa Halliwell

 

Walking into that alley was a mistake. Trying to save a stranger was even worse. But once he pulled the trigger and I saw what he was capable of, I knew there was no going back. I tried to run, but he was faster. So out of desperation, I offered him the only thing I could think of. Friendship. Now as long as he keeps calling, I'll keep answering. Because Echo Sannikov might just be the most dangerous man I've ever met. And after everything I've been through, that should terrify me....even if it doesn't. I'll Be There For You by Jessa Halliwell was published on April 28th, 2026. This is the first book in the Lovesick Sinners series. 

I was given this book for my honest review from Jessa Halliwell and The Smuthood. This book started out really strong from the beginning. Not much was said about the two characters in the descriptions but that was okay. I really liked how the two characters play off each other. Though, I didn't feel like Echo was this big bad Mafia type of guy he was supposed to be. He acted too gooey most of the book unless he was threatening someone. I really thought Dahlia was a flat character but it didn't take over the plot. The plot in the book was great and I was able to understand what was happening throughout the book. I recommend checking out this book. I can't wait to read the next book in the series as this one left us in a cliffhanger. 

Quotes that I Loved 

"Yeah, that's a great way to attract a sociopath." 

"Yes.....It's been on my list for a while now."
"Hmm....I didn't take you for someone into fae smut, but I'm not one to kink shame." 

"Intense would be carving your name into my fucking chest. This is me showing restraint." 

Lovesick Sinners Series 

1. I'll Be There for You 

2. You Were There for Me (11/18/2026) 

Tropes

Dark Romance

Stalker

Mafia 

Forced Proximity 

Friends to Lovers 

Age Gap 

Red Zone (Rock City Renegades #4) by C.L. Rose

 

I used to love being referred to as the bad boy running back - until my antics landed me in hot water. I didn't think life could get much worse than being released by the team I poured my heart and soul into, just to find out I'd be playing for the Rock City Renegades. They may have the league fooled into believing they've got a shot at a championship, but I see through the facade. They've a joke, and it's only a matter of time before the rest of the world catches on. With no other choice, I sign the contract and agree to let the owner's daughter help me clean up my image. If I play my cards right and put on a show, I'll be on my way to better team in no time. But when Sydney Grant walks into our first meeting, I realize I'm not working with a stranger at all, but the woman who had me crawling for her the right before. Can I keep it professional and do what it takes to fix my reputation? Or will I risk it all for another chance with the one person I should stay far away from? Red Zone by C.L. Rose was published on April 30th, 2026. This is the fourth book in the Rock City Renegades series. 

I was given this book for my honest review from C.L. Rose and The Smuthood. I have absolutely loved this series so far. Each of the books so far have their own plot that makes them unique. The characters in this book are amazing. This book had me laughing from the very beginning. I loved how the relationship between the two characters build through the book. This book made me squeal in excitement throughout the book. The conversation through the book is on point and helped push the story through the plot. The characters really helped with talking about things in the plot instead of reading it in the description. There are some turns in the book that will catch you off guard. It doesn't take over the plot but I don't know if it really fits in the book. Though, I highly recommend checking this book out. 

Quotes that I Loved 

"I hope you're ready, baby boy. I'm about to turn you inside out." 

"Nope, not at all. Now, be a good boy and get on your knees." 

"Fuck Around and Find Out: Party of one. Your table's ready." 

"There she is. There's my dirty fucking girl." 

Rock City Renegades Series 

1. Mr. Irrelevant 

2. Bad Call 

3. The Interception 

4. Red Zone 

5. Clock Play (October 1st, 2026) 

Tropes 

Sports - Football 

BDSM 

Forced Proximity 

Enemies to Lovers 

He Falls First 

King of Sin (Ruthless O'Rourkes #1) by Stella Moore

 

One night. That's all I wanted. One night of passion, one night to taste the forbidden pleasures kept locked behind the doors of Charleston's most notorious kink club. He gave me that. And so much more. But then I learned who he really was. Killian O'Rourke. Just the name is enough to strike fear into the hearts of the strongest men. The gorgeous mystery man I gave my virginity to is the ruthless leader of the Irish mob. And one of my father's closest friends. It should have ended there. Except that one night tied me to Killian forever. Now, he'll stop at nothing to keep me and our child by his side. Even if it means burning the city we both love to the ground. King of Sin by Stella Moore was published on April 21st, 2026. This is the first book of the Ruthless O'Rourkes series. 

I was given this book for my honest review from Stella Moore and The Smuthood. I absolutely loved this book from the very beginning. You do not get a huge description of the two main characters which for me is fine. I like coming up with my own descriptions of the characters. This book had so much chemistry from the very beginning. I loved that you meet so many characters through the book. I really hope to get to know more about the background characters as the series goes on. While there is a pregnancy in the book it's really not the main part of the story. Just a reason that some of the things happen. This book had so much great dialogue throughout it. I highly recommend checking this book out. 

Ruthelss O'Rourkes Series

1. King of Sin

2. King of Secrets (09/29/2026) 

Troupes 

Dark Romance 

Mafia 

BDSM 

Enemies to Lovers

Virgin

Saving the Shortstop (The Good Girls of NE University #3) by Hannah Gray

 

As the daughter of a retired NFL player, college softball's number one ranked shortstop, and someone usually considered an all-around good time, I've never had an issue getting attention. But getting the attention of the person I most want it from? Now that's a different story. When Dallas Rivers, my brother's best friend who also happens to be one of my dad's players on the NEU football team, is struggling in school. I find myself volun-told to help. I should be thrilled with this arrangement. After all, I'm in school to become a teacher. Except, I've always made it a point to keep a respectable distance from him. Because the one person whose attention I've always longed for? Yep, you guessed it...It's Dallas Rivers. Saving the Shortstop by Hannah Gray was published on June 11th, 2026. This is the third book in The Good Girls of NE University series. 

I was given this book for my honest review from Hannah Gray and The Smuthood. Okay, now that has been said, I am absolutely enjoying this book series. I have actually had the amazing pleasure of being able to get all three of the books that are currently out to read. Hannah Gray knows how to create each book to be their own but yet, also have the same characters throughout the series. I absolutely loved the two main characters in this book. I love learning about Dallas and his past that has been hinted in the other books then there is Haven. This book has amazing trope of lifelong friends who finally realize that perhaps they love each other more then friends. These two are such opposites that really work. I love how they finally ended up together in the book. It was easy to see how their relationship shifted and changed on each page. The dialogue in this book is top notch. I cannot wait to read book four at the end of the year. I also need to check out the other books by Hannah Gray. She is becoming one of my favorite authors. 

Quotes that I Loved 

"It's just so funny that the guy half the team can't stand is the one you choose to turn into your fuck buddy."

 
"Years ago....He was drunk, and he didn't remember it the next day. I didn't bring it up. It was nothing."
"Or....he did remember but was embarrassed....This happens in my romance books all the time. They're friends. Lines get crossed. The MMC finds a way to cover it up." 
"Gigi, did you just compare Dallas to one of the male main characters in your spicy books?" 

"Because things went from, like, zero to sixty in about three seconds."
"Give me a little credit, Short....I lasted more like two minutes, for sure." 

"You can make it up to me when you sit there like a good girl while I paint your face with my cum....The cum you could have had inside you, if only you didn't act like a brat."  

The Good Girls of NE University Series 

1. Getting the Goalie 

2. Convincing the Catcher 

3. Saving the Shortstop 

4. Praising the Pitcher (TBA 12/31/2026) 

Tropes 

Sports Romance - Football & Softball

Friends to Lovers 

Forced Proximity 

Brother's Best Friend 

College Romance 

Childhood Friends 

Volik (Bonded Souls #1) by S.J. Tilly

 

Forget what you think you know. Forget the fairy tales and lore of old. Vampires are real. And for the past seventy years, they've walked opening among us. They're bigger and stronger than humans, with black eyes, horns, and powers that shouldn't be possible. Volik is one of these vampires. Living in the small town of Hemlock Hills, he spends his days locked in his office at Stailden University. Wasting time. Waiting. Until Nix, the new journalism professor, arrives...and changes everything. This is the story about the day they met. What happened after. And how their bond started a sequence of events that changed the world. Volik by S.J. Tilly was published on June 11th, 2026. This is the first book in the Bonded Souls series. 

I was given this book for my honest review from S.J. Tilly and The Smuthood. I used to read a lot of vampire books as a young adult. Though, lately I haven't read much about the paranormal world. But, I could not skip this book from one of my top authors that I love reading. Now that being said, I absolutely loved this book. S.J. Tilly was able to craft the world where vampires and other creatures live so quickly that it didn't feel like it was dragging. I absolutely loved how she created the meet of the two main characters. How it was created made it not feel so fast and that you can see how the two characters were getting together. The dialogue throughout the book made me feel so many emotions. S.J. Tilly knows how to use dialogue to help the readers understand what is happening with the ability to move the story along. I highly recommend checking out this amazing book. 

Quotes that I Loved 

"I'm telling you this to save your life. Do not touch that woman." 

"You cannot walk around like that." 

"My shirts do not fit."

"It's not........I cannot see your dick, Volik." 

"What are you thinking about, Mate?" 

"I'm wondering if I can still suck your cock with these fangs." 

I do not want that squished worm looking at me anymore. 

Bonded Souls Series 

1. Volik 

2. TBA (09/03/26) 

Tropes 

Paranormal 

Age-Gap

Forced Proximity 

Small Town 

Billionaire 

Virgin 

Depraved Devotion (Villains & Vices #1) by Morgan Bridges

 

My patient is stalking me...and he's a psychopath. I've dedicated my life to understanding the darkest corners of the human psyche, but nothing prepares me for him. Ghost. The man is brilliant, ruthless serial killer who thrives on chaos. Just like his cult following enrapt by his brutality and beauty, he's completely unhinged. And he's obsessed with me. So when Ghost turns himself in and demands to speak to me, I'm forced to confront the beautiful monster sitting across the glass. And the one inside - the one lurking in my own fractured soul. Ghost's rapt attention brings goosebumps to my skin and sends chills down my spine. I choose to believe my reaction is based in fear. When I'm alone in bed, it's harder to convince myself. As boundaries fade and the line between doctor and patient blurs. I'm faced with What am I willing to pay to unveil the truth about my haunted past? Because to Ghost, the price is me. All of me. Depraved Devotion by Morgan Bridges was published on December 9th, 2025. This is the first book in the Villains & Vices series. 

This was another book that I got over a weekend stay with my husband at a hotel. This book is intense from the very beginning. I am not much a fan of true crimes but I do have friends that are. This book is right up their alley. I loved the tension in this book from the very beginning. I could not put this book down as it just kept me hanging on. The sexual tension was there through the whole book. Though, I really wanted to shake FMC so much for not telling anyone about Ghost. I felt like the two main characters were real and I would hear about Ghost on the news. Sadly I never did hear the serial killer name Ghost being caught. The only thing that I didn't like was that this book ends in a massive cliffhanger. Also the next book is not out yet. At last though, I highly recommend checking this book out. Especially if you are into Dark Romance and serial killers it's up your alley. 

Quotes that I Loved 

"You may like to hurt women to gain a sense of control...but you only do it behind closed doors because you're a coward. So, either man up and hit me, or get the fuck out of my way." 

"Blood pressure, blood sample, etcetera...etcetera....You'd think I'd be thrown in a cell by now. Killing with style is mentally exhausting, you know? I really need some 'me time.'" 

"You won't be able to pull a disappearing act now, Ghost. After this assessment, we're throwing your ass in a hole so deep you'll never see daylight, or civilization again." 

"An introvert's wet dream. Can't wait." 

"Who. Fucking. Touched. You?" 

"That's my good girl." 

Villains & Vices Series

1. Depraved Devotion

2. Depraved Desires (06/23/26) 

Tropes

Dark Romance 

Stalker

Serial Killer

Slow Burn 

Enemies to Lovers

He Falls First 

Forbidden

Branded by Saffron A. Kent

 

It all began with letters. Every word he wrote etched itself into my mind, into my soul. I had no choice but to fall in love with him. Was it really so bad that the letters were part of a pen pal program, sent from a penitentiary? Or that they weren't really addressed to me? It's not as if he'd ever find out the truth. It's not as if I'd ever get to look those eyes that are as blue as the sky over his ranch he left behind. Or that I'd ever get to feel his work-roughened hands dominating my body as he does my fevered dreams. Until one afternoon when I find myself standing in front of him - pretending to be someone I am not. But the joke's on me because for all my pretenses, his deception is much crueler. The hardened, dangerous, impossibly beautiful man is nothing like the man in the letters. And it's too late for me to run. Branded by Saffron A. Kent was published on October 2025. 

This book was purchased while I was on a weekend trip with my lovely husband. So I finally got around to reading it and I am so happy that I made that choice. This book had me in all of the emotions. Through the book, I was trying to figure out what the hell was happening with the characters. Like what made the MMC do what he did to the FMC. The writing of this book is so top tier that every page and scene made you think and yet they flowed so perfectly. The smut scenes in this book are amazing and you will not want any distractions while reading them. I cannot wait to read more books by Saffron A. Kent. As if she writes more books like this then I know for sure she will become one of my favorite authors. 

Quotes that I Loved 

"Hands off her now or I'll kill you right here for touching my wife." 

"And cowboys may be the worst boyfriends but we make the best husbands." 

"What were you gonna do with my knife then.....swat butterflies in the meadow?" 

"So if I wanna keep you, I'm gonna let you ride." 
"Ride?"
"Uh-huh."
"What?" 
"My mouth." 
"I...what?"
"Now, shut the fuck up, hold on to that knife, and keep those legs open." 

Tropes 

Dark Romance 

Age-Gap

Small Town

Enemies to Lovers 

Grumpy Sunshine 

Virgin 

Marriage of Convenience 

Test of Time (Blossom Peak #3) by Harlow James

 

Falling for the single dad next door wasn't part of my plan when I moved to Blossom Peak. I accepted the teaching job for a fresh start, far away from the controlling ex I left behind. But Rhonan Hart is everything you could ask for in a man. Strong, dependable, helpful, an amazing father to his daughter, Ellis...and looks beyond Sinful in his sheriff's uniform. Except his daughter is my student, and he's determined to pretend like our connection doesn't exist. (I'm determined to pretend he didn't see me naked when my shower blew up, and he tried to save me.) But soon, he's sneaking over to my house at night - warming my bed, tearing down his walls, and making me want something I knew I couldn't have. My life is a mess, one I'm still trying to clean up. But this man and his child give me a glimpse of a future I want, no matter what the cost. Just when I think I'm on the path to moving on, fate decides to give us the test of Time. I just hope this is a test we both survive. Test of Time by Harlow James was published on April 10th, 2026. This is the third book in the Blossom Peak series. 

I was given this book for my honest review from Harlow James and The Smuthood. I have to say that this series has me in all the emotions of the world. I have cried, laughed, giggled, squealed, and swooned through out each book. This book was no different as the other two in the series. I absolutely love the way Harlow James writes each of her characters and how each book you see pieces of the characters that you haven't read about. I already knew this book was going to knock my socks off from the previous books when I met Rhonan. Then this book still blew me away when you get to meet the amazing Vienna. This book had so much chemistry between the characters. But not only that the friendship of Vienna and Rhonan's little girl. It's such an amazing book and I couldn't put this book down even for a minute. I highly recommend checking this book out. 

Quotes that I Loved 

"Are you not actually planning on getting your dick pierced, then? Did I just get manipulated with the threat of penis mutilation?" 
"I mean, the thought has crossed my mind, actually. New penis, new me."
"Your dick will still be the same."
"No, he'll be bejeweled."
"For the love of God, please stop." 

"Everyone go look outside. I think pigs are flying because Elliot and Dilynne just agreed on something." 

"Don't. Fucking. Think. About. It." 

"You look so fucking good on your knees." 

Blossom Peak Series 

1. All This Time 

2. On Borrowed Time 

3. Test of Time

4. It's About Time (07/10/2026) 

Tropes 

Single Parent

Small Town 

Forced Proximity 

Grumpy Sunshine 

Men in Uniform - Sheriff 

Next Best Swing by Shann McPherson

 

Not so long ago, Brookes Devereaux was the world number one golfer. Now, fresh out of rehab, his comeback is not quite according to plan, and he's seriously starting to worry that the old Brookes is gone for good, and what's left is nothing more than a 32-year-old washed-up has-been. When faced with the real threat of losing his tour card, Brookes and his management team are left scrambling. But, with a litter help from his meddling 80-year-old bestie, Brookes decides that Poppy Crawford, the curvy cart girl with endless sunshine and spunk, might just be what he needs to help him improve his image. Brookes and Poppy come to an arrange; she agrees to be his fake girlfriend for the summer, and he'll pay her enough money that she'll finally be able to get out of her ex-boyfriend's apartment. It's the perfect deal: Brookes isn't at all interested in her or a relationship, and Poppy needs money to help turn her small business into a dream career. But when Poppy helps Brookes find himself again, and Brookes helps Poppy fight the demons from her past that she's kept hidden from everyone, the two grow closer. And when the lines between real and fake, and right and wrong begin to blur, Brookes finds himself wondering if what he didn't want, might exactly what he needs. Next Best Swing by Shann McPherson was published on April 9th, 2026. 

I was given this book for my honest review from Shann McPherson and The Smuthood. I want to first explain that I know every little bit about golf so this was all new to me. Though, since I didn't know much about golf I was not lost in the book. Golf was only a small part of the plot of the story. I absolutely loved this book. I loved Poppy and her spunky behavior and Brookes grumpy behavior. I absolutely hated another character in this book as he made me uneasy just like he did to Poppy. The author knew how to make sure that the other character came across the reader so well that it makes you feel uneasy by his behavior. I loved how Poppy and Brookes were not instantly in love. It took time through the book for them to get to the point of past friends. The smut scenes were sweet and did not overpower the plot of the story. The plot of the story flowed really well from each scene and I felt like by the end of the book a lot of my questions were answered. I highly recommend checking out this book. I for one will read more books by Shann McPherson. 

Tropes 

Sports - Golf 

Fake Dating 

Forced Proximity 

Friends to Lovers 

Grumpy Sunshine 

Slow Burn 

Rucking Obsessed (Knights of St. Killian #1) by London Snow

 

MySongbird, 3,748 days. I know the number without looking it up. Ten years, two months and six days since the first time I saw your face. I track every aspect of your life like you're my religion. When I reveal myself, you'll understand that I'll never worship anyone else. You were always meant to be mine, my little songbird. But for now, I have to settle for keeping you safe. Yours in every lifetime. Rucking Obsessed by London Snow was published March 25th, 2026. This is the first book in the Knights of St. Killian series. 

I was given this book for my honest review from London Snow and The Smuthood. I had a hard time getting into this book. There were times where I was so close in DNF it. But then...there were moments where I was like wait...this is finally getting interesting. I could not get into the two main characters at all though. I felt like they had no chemistry other then him saving her when she was little. Though he was the only one who remembered. So it was a challenging book for me. I felt like the characters really didn't have any depth to them. But yet the plot had some interesting points involved in it. While, I am not sure if I will read another book in the series. You might light this book. It does have a few good spicy scenes. 

Quotes that I Liked 

"Leave her the fuck alone...Or I'm going to shove that little rowboat of yours up your ass and send you out to sea." 

"I see you watching me all the time. For such a psycho.....you're very handsome." 

"You're awfully cuddly for a stalker, Sabastian..." 

Knights of St. Killian Series

1. Rucking Obsessed 

2. TBA 

Tropes

Sports Romance - Rugby

Dark Romance 

Stalker 

New Age

He Fell First 

Virgin 

The Roommate Rules (Steele Brothers of Starlight Cove #4) by Brighton Walsh

 

Starlight Cove's prim little librarian has despised me since the first day I parked my motorcycle on her sidewalk. Now our feud has landed us as roommates....and she just asked me to teach her every dirty thing she's never experienced. Making Penelope Shea lose her mind has been my favorite hobby since she moved here. But our infamous daily sparring backfires when the town's meddling grandma sentences us to five hundred hours of community service...or thirty days of living together. Penelope chooses cohabitation with the enemy to protect her spotless record. I agree because watching her unravel sounds like fun. What I don't expect is to discover my rule-enforcing roommate has secrets - namely, a hidden career penning filthy romances and a list of sinful lessons she's written about but never learned firsthand. Like an idiot, I volunteer as her tutor. Penelope calls it research. I call it trouble. Because somewhere between her first lesson and her first tattoo, she goes from being in my head to being in my bed. Now she's under my skin as permanently as my ink is under hers. The Roommate Rules by Brighton Walsh was published on May 7th, 2026. This is the fourth book in the Steele Brothers of Starlight Cove series. 

I was so excited when I was given this book for my honest review from Brighton Walsh and The Smuthood. This is the fourth book that I have received from these lovely ladies and I absolutely love this series. Brighton Walsh is one of my top favorite authors that I always love reading her books. So let's talk about this book. This book sets the bar so high that it's hard to get into another book after you finish it. The smut scenes in this book are top notch as Declan does not hold back when he teaches Penelope the ropes of a good scene. There are times when you might need to fan yourself or find your lovely husband to help ya out. I absolutely loved Declan in the other books in the series so of course I was so excited that it was finally his book. Mind you he loved to give his brothers a hard time previously so you know those brothers are going to come after him. This book has so much chemistry that builds up throughout that you knew they were going to combust. I love that Penelope has such an amazing friendship with some of the leading females in previous books and Declan's mom. The characters in this book are amazing and it's hard to realize that they are in fact not real. Brighton Walsh has pulled off another book and then she left us with the biggest surprise at the end of this book. Sneaky...Sneaky author. I highly recommend checking out this amazing book, I for one will be on the look out for more books by this author as she never has failed me yet. 

Quotes that I Loved 

"I'm telling you, she's gonna snap one day."

"Worth it."

"Not if she stabs you with a pencil engraved with World's Best Librarian and you bleed out on the sidewalk you were bound and determined to park on." 

"What're you thinking about, rebel?" 

"Choking you with my bare hands."

"Maybe next time. If you're a good girl." 

"You know I can't fake my dick getting hard, right?" 

"Well, I don't have one of those things! I don't have firsthand knowledge of how they work."

"Clearly, But I do. And I can promise you, my cock doesn't lie." 

"Look at you. Soft everywhere I wanna sink my teeth." 

"Some would say too soft."

"Good thing those assholes aren't here." 

"All I see are tits I wanna fuck, thighs I wanna bury my face between, and hips I wanna dig my fingers into while I'm fucking you." 

Steele Brothers of Starlight Cove Series 

1. The Grump Next Door 

2. The Live-In Temptation 

3. The Mr & Mrs Mistake 

4. The Roommate Rules 

Tropes 

Forced Proximity 

Small Town 

Enemies to Lovers 

Grumpy - Sunshine

He Falls First 

Unplanned Play (Nashville Players #1) by Chelle Sloan

 

The itinerary for girls' weekend in Las Vegas was simple. Gamble. Get drunk. Wear a little black dress that screamed "newly single and ready to make bad decisions." That bad - yet oh so very good decision - came when Maddox Gallagher walked into the bar. In my defense, it was hard to resist the younger football player. Between the dimple in his cheek and the way he held me when we danced, I was a goner. Add in the fact that he was celebrating a championship trophy and I was toasting to no longer being married, we were a match made in one-night-of-fun heaven. But what happens in Vegas stays in Vegas, right? Whoever said that was a liar. Because tell me why my one-night stand is now walking into my bakery, bound and determined to turn our one night into something more. And why did I bring home a souvenir that won't get here for nine months and also not have a return policy? Unplanned Play by Chelle Sloan was published on March 26th, 2026. 

I was given this book for my honest review from Chelle Sloan and The Smuthood. Thanks Ladies! This is my first book that I have read by Chelle Sloan and I am so excited to say I was not disappointed. This book made me feel all of the feels. Though, I am not a huge fan of surprise pregnancy this one didn't bother me as much. Though, as a reader I was able to spot it pretty quickly. I was really excited through when ever I had time to read to get back into this book. It's Maycember in my house so everything is happening this month. I loved the dynamic between the two main characters in this book. I loved how the one-night stand turned into more. I also loved how Maddox was not pushing FMC to become more than friends. That he was able to just be her friend and be there for her even though he wanted more. I absolutely loved this book and I am sure you will too. There are also some nice smut scenes throughout the book. 

Quotes that I Loved 

"Been friends with this woman for fifty years and to this day I have to remind her that we stay away from red flags, not run toward them like a goddamn bull." 

"I want to know every good, bad, or ugly thought that's bouncing around in that beautiful head of yours. Because the good ones I want to make sure happen, and the bad ones I want to fuck right out of you." 

"Abso-fucking-lutely." 
"Good boy."
"Now fuck me until I come again."
"With pleasure." 

Nashville Players Series

1. Unplanned Play 

2. Unexpected Shot (04/30/2026) 

Tropes

Age Gap

Sports Romance - Football

Friends to Lovers 

He Fell First 

Lassoed Love (Silver Saddle Ranch #2) by Ann Einerson

 

Spicy lessons turn into undeniable chemistry, blurred lines, and broken rules between a reformed cowboy Casanova and the girl he's secretly pined after for years in this steamy, friends-to-lovers, fake-dating, small-town romance. I wasn't expecting to bail my little sister's best friend out of jail. But what else could I do? I've wanted her for far longer than I care to admit. Too bad she thinks I'm a notorious Playboy, leaving my firmly in the friend zone. Not that I didn't earn that reputation once upon a time, but Birdie is the only one I have eyes for now. Luck is on my side when, after a few too many shots, the girl of my dreams propositions me. Will I be the first one to take her for a roll in the hay and teach her everything I know? Getting involved with the woman I've been yearning for is a bad idea. But it's one I plan to take for a ride, especially when Birdie becomes my fake girlfriend with benefits. This might not be my first rodeo, but agreeing to give her spicy lessons blurs the lines between friendship and what lies beyond. If I'm already bending the rules, I'm determined to lasso her heart. Lassoed Love by Ann Einerson was published March 26th, 2026. This is the second book in the Silver Saddle Ranch series. 

I was given this book for my honest review from Ann Einerson and The Smuthood. I have to first say that I have not read book one before I read this book. Though, you didn't really need to read book one first. It was quick way to get the background just by reading this book. Though, you don't know how to background characters got together. It didn't take away from the book at all or the plot. I absolutely enjoyed this book. It is very light hearted and makes you giggle a lot. I absolutely loved Birdie in this book. She seems to be a girl who has so much strength when in reality she is drowning until Walker comes in. I loved that both characters have both strengths and weaknesses that balance each other out. It makes it seem like a perfect fit through the book. The plot in this book is amazing and it flows so well through each page. I didn't feel like I was always playing catch up or feeling like screaming because nothing was happening. I loved the romance the two characters have for each other. It works really well together as you can see how they work together in the book. The spicy scenes are spicy as Walker teaches Birdie what it means to be spicy. I highly recommend checking this book out. 

Quotes that I Loved 

"If you're responsible for this, I'm totally putting glitter in your body wash the next time I'm at the ranch, Deputy." 

"That's one dirty mouth for someone who claims to be so innocent." 

"God, you're so hot when you beg."

"You need me to help get you off, baby? Is that what you've been missing?" 

"Eyes on me." 

Silver Saddle Ranch Series

1. Wrangled Love 

2. Lassoed Love 

3. Tethered Love 

Tropes 

small town

friends to lovers 

fake dating

virgin

sister's best friend