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 

 

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 

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

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 

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 

Flock (The Ravenhood #1) by Kate Stewart

 

Can you keep a secret? I grew up sick. Let me clarify. I grew up believing that real love stories include a martyr or demand great sacrifice to be worthy. Because of that, I believed it, because I made myself believe it, and I bred the most masochistic of romantic hearts, which resulted in my illness. When I lived this story, my own twisted fairy tale, it was unbeknowst to me at the time because I was young and naive. I gave into temptation and fed the beating beast, which grew thirstier with every slash, every strike, every blow. Triple Falls wasn't at all what it seemed, nor were the men that swept me under their wing. But in order to keep them, I had to be in on their secrets. Secrets that cost us everything to keep. That's the novelty of fiction versus reality. You can't re-live your own love story, because by the time you've realized you're living it, it's over. At least that was the case for me and the men I trusted my foolish heart to. Looking back, I'm convinced I willed my story into existence due to my illness. And all were punished. Flock by Kate Stewart was published July 27th, 2020. This is the first book in The Ravenhood series. 

I actually read this book a long time ago and just got some time to type up the review. I absolutely devoured this book. I loved the characters in this book that I had to actually read the next book in the series so I could stay with the characters longer. This book had so many twist and turns through out the book. You were caught in the love triangle through the book. The author wrote it to confuse the reader on who the main FMC was going to end up with. I thought all three main characters in this book had so much depth and history that was shown little by little through the book. Though you find out more in the following book. The author had no trouble with the three main characters and kept them straight through the book. The plot in this book is perfectly written. It has lots of spice and smut that will keep you up at night. Like what goes where and that goes there. I highly recommend checking out this book. Just know it's a FMC with two MMC. 

Quotes that I Loved 

"I've been to plenty of parties, Sean. I'm no Little Red Riding Hood." 

"Good, because we don't want to let the Wolf get a whiff." 

...I want it to hurt. When we fuck, I want to feel it with every fiber of my being. When a man confesses his love to me, I expect him to mean it. I don't want to question the words' authenticity. I want to be claimed and owned and ruled and possessed by love. 

"You catchin' feelings for me, Pup?"
"Yes, of course I am. We...I was hoping....I don't know."
"That's right, we don't, so let's not go around getting offended and slinging drama where it isn't needed. You want to trust me, but you're not letting yourself, and there's nothing I can do about that. I can tell you every day you're safe with me, but unless you believe it, it's pointless. And for the record, I caught feelings the minute I laid eyes on you." 

"It's okay to want his dick, baby, I'll watch it go inside you and fucking love the view, and the savage it'll make me." 

The Ravenwood Series

1. Flock

2.  Exodus

3. The Finish Line 

Tropes 

Dark Romance 

New Adult 

Why Choose 

Enemies to Lovers 

Small Town

All's Fair in Love & Sin (Queens & Heathens #2) by Jenn Plummer

 

He lives by the club's code; she's bound to a man who isn't him. When their forbidden love ignites, every stolen moment binds them together, until they discover secrets that twist their lives in a way they never expected. But some hearts collide despite the cost and fall anyway. After all, all's fair in love and sin. All's Fair in Love & Sin by Jenn Plummer was published on March 5th, 2026. This is the second book in the Queens & Heathens series. 

I was given this book for my honest review from Jenn Plummer and The Smuthood. Thanks again ladies for choosing me to review. So, this is the second book in the series and I thought that the first book was written well but I think this book topped it. I absolutely loved the chemistry between the two main characters in this book. You could see them physically falling in love while reading every single page. You also could tell that Sin was okay with just being her friend if that means he gets to stay with her. I also loved seeing the chemistry of Chaos with his Old Lady in this book. This book is so sweet and really outside the norm for dark romance tropes. But I loved the plot where the action really wasn't a huge part of the book. It was the build up between the two characters. The smut scenes were pretty mild for dark romance but I highly recommend checking this book out. I cannot wait to read Malice's story next. 

Quotes that I Loved 

"What? That my best friend has been reduced to the equivalent of a Fleshlight?" 

"You don't even realize what you do to me, the power you hold, how one word from you quiets every storm in my head. I swear, being near you feels like finally finding the place I've been trying to return to my entire life. There isn't a single part of my existence, past, present, or whatever the hell comes next, that doesn't ache for you." 

God, she's everything. My endgame. My future wife. My old lady. My queen. 

"Rhys...I'm....I'll crush you. You won't be able to breathe." 

"Good. Fucking 

Queens and Heathens Series

1. All's Fair in Love & Chaos 

2. All's Fair in Love & Sin

3. All's Fair in Love & Malice (May 1st, 2026)

4. All's Fair in Love & Wrath (August 6th, 2026) 

Tropes

Dark Romance 

Motorcycle Club

Small Town

He Falls First 

Friends to Lovers 

Forbidden 

Cruel Savior (Ruthless Arrangements #1) by Lilith Vincent

 

I saved his life. Now he owns mine. I've lived my whole life in a golden cage, the captive daughter of a powerful Mafia don. When my father arranges my marriage to Vincenzo Vici, a cold-blooded assassin from a rival family, it's a death sentence. For both of us. Because my father uses our engagement to slaughter the Vicis and take their territory. But he makes a grave error. He doesn't kill the most dangerous Vici of Vincenzo himself. I've never met my intended fiance, so when I stumbled upon a handsome, bloodied stranger being tortured in a laundromat in the middle of the night, I follow my instincts and save his life. Big mistake. The man I saved is Vincenzo Vici, and when he discovers I'm the woman who led his family to slaughter, I realize there are circles of hell my father never showed me. Vincenzo should kill me. He wants to kill me. Instead, he decided to make me pay in a different way - by holding me to our arranged marriage and exacting his revenge on me. But Vincenzo isn't the monster I expected. His ruthless kisses light up my soul. His darkness is a dangerous addiction. And when my father hands me poision and orders me to finish what he started, I'm caught between two impossible loyalty to my own blood, or devotion to the darkness that sets me free. Cruel Savior by Lilith Vincent was published February 25th, 2026. This is the first book in Ruthless Arrangements series. 

I was given this book for my honest review from Lilith Vincent and The Smuthood. Let's talk about the cover first. The cover of this book is amazing! I feel like this character really brings out the character in the book. It also really drew me to the book so well done on the cover Lilith. Okay, let's talk about this book. This book is grade AMAZING! I could not put this book down for the life of me. I lost many hours of sleep reading this book. This book had the drama, had the romance, had the twist and turns. It had me crying and had me squealing in giddiness. The plot of this book is perfection and I felt like there was nothing that I needed to know more about. It had the perfect amount of background that gave you some answers but yet was not over running the whole book. The smut scenes are tame for a Dark Romance but still hot with tension. The tension between the two main characters is there from the first few chapters that make you want to fan yourself. The two characters are well written. I really like how the author wrote the Mafia princess in this book. You can tell that she was shelter from certain things and yet how she also suffered from abuse. She acted how a person would act if she was abused most of her life. I absolutely loved this book. I cannot wait till the second book comes out in May. 

Quotes that I Loved 

"Where do you think you're going, my pretty little Savior?" 

"You're getting off on this? There are bodies right there. We're both soaking in their blood." 

"Doe knows how to handle herself, Zia. First time I met her, she brained me with a baseball bat." 
"Was that before or after you kissed her?"
"After."
"Damn, you need to work on your technique." 

"Eyes on me. I want to see your face when you come on my cock. Want to watch you fall apart for me." 

Ruthless Arrangement Series

1. Cruel Savior 

2. Forbidden Vow (May 6th, 2026) 

Tropes

Mafia 

Enemies to Lovers

Arrange Marriage 

Virgin

Dark Romance 

Slow Burn 

He Falls First 

Maksim (The Korolova Bratva #1) by Katie Ashley

 

Because of the way I speak, everyone judges me the moment I open my mouth. Even though I'm 6'5 and two eighty, they see me as weak. They always have. Even my father who passed me over as his heir. Behind the mask with the automated voice, I'm not weak. Women desire me, and men fear me. As fortunes change within my family, I need to correct my impediment. That's why I seek out one of the best speech pathologists on the East Coast. On paper, Dr. Sarah Whitfield looks boring and rigid. But the good doctor is hiding a secret: she has a kink for Masked Men. She sheds her professional facade on weekends when she attends Masked Events. And I'm here to fulfill her fantasies of being kidnapped by a masked man. But this time, it's for real. Maksim by Katie Ashley was published on January 29th, 2026. This is the first book in the Korolova Bratva series. 

I was given this book for my honest review by Katie Ashley and The Smuthood. I absolutely loved organized crime romances. Somehow they always make me feel good inside when I read them. Anyways, this is the first book that I have read by Katie Ashley and she did not disappoint me whatsoever. I think I highlighted so many good scenes and quotes in this book it is almost all highlighted. I absolutely loved that the big beefy Bratva guy had a disability. For me that was huge that you find out that both characters struggle with things and were not perfect. It made both of them seem so real to me. This book though made me feel the feels. I love how Sarah was not going to let Maksim by when he makes a mistake. Also how she was always trying to fix his disability through the book. Made me giggle so hard because I could totally see how it would cause him to set back some of his ego. I absolutely loved this book so much that I cannot wait to read more from Katie Ashley. Her writing is sweet and yet also makes you feel all tingly. I highly recommend it. 

Quotes that I Loved 

"Do you want to be fucked like a lady or fucked like my whore?"
"Like your whore." 
"Good girl." 

"I have no fantasies that involve you."
"Are you sure about that?"
"Absolutely."
"You lie to me, and you lie to yourself."
"You're an egomaniac." 
"When you were making yourself come in the shower, were you thinking about Maksim or me?"
"Fuck you."
"I would love you to."
"I wish it had been Maksim I was thinking of."
"Why? I'm the one who made you come last night."
"He's a better man than you.....I hate you."
"Oh, I know."
"No. I don't just hate you. I despise you." 
"Surely you're aware that angry sex can be very, very hot." 

Korolov Bratva Series 

1. Maksim 

Tropes

Dark Romance

BDSM

Forced Proximity 

Organized Crime 

Sinful Obsession (Sinful Spartans of SCU #1) by Havoc Wilde

 

He's been her hero once. Now, he'll be her ruin. Ramsey Blackwood is a menace on the ice. A bruiser. A fighter. A legacy at St. Charles University, keeping his family name alive even after his cousins have graduated. But his real obsession? Reese St. Pierre. It started the first time he saw her. Years ago, he saved her from a man who meant to hurt her. But it wasn't just a white knight move. It was the beginning of his downfall. She's all he sees. All he wants. All he craves. But Reese is off-limits. His best friend. The little sister of his cousin's wife. A dancer with more grace than anyone he's ever known. The only person who makes him feel like there's a shred of good left inside him. She's also someone else's. Ramsey tells himself she deserves better. That no one is good enough for her - not even him. That he'll protect from the shadows, even if it means burying his own secrets - his violent tendencies, his obsession, his addiction to the darkness his cousin Penn introduced him to. But when he finds out just how unworthy her boyfriend really is, all bets are off. Reese has always known Ramsey was dangerous. But when she follows him into the night, she realizes she never knew just how dark he truly is. And now that she's seen him like this, there's no turning back. She was his once-upon-a-time salvation. Now, he'll be her sweetest sin. Sinful Obsession by Havoc Wilde was published on February 19th, 2026. This is the first book of the Sinful Spartans of SCU series. 

I was given this book for my honest review from Havoc Wilde and The Smuthood. I absolutely devoured this book. I mean this book had me drooling in parts and gasping in others. Also had me cheering and me angry muttering in parts as well. This book I could not put down which is really hard when you have four kids and watch your two year old niece. Havoc knows what she is doing when she created Ramsey and Reece. Ramsey had so much depth in him that it made me want to cheer for him to know that he is worth everything even though he is a creepy dude. Then there is Reece who you get to know has many layers as well she is just better hiding them. Both of these characters grew into themselves more as the book progressed. Their romance is top tier and I was a little jealous of parts of how much Ramsey loved her. I highly recommend this book. You won't be disappointed. Also the smut scenes are AMAZING!!!!! 

Quotes that I Loved 

"Like a wolf not even bothering to show its teeth because it knows the lamb is already dead." 

"Who. Fucking. Touched. You." 

"You need to climb that tree as soon as fucking possible. Why wait? The man is a fucking redwood, and you're over here making lists when you should be making babies." 

"Don't waste the fucking time being a white knight....Maybe what she needs is the villain." 

"To be fucked like an animal in the dirt?" 

Sinful Spartans of SCU Series

0. A Very Sinful Christmas 

1. Sinful Obsession 

2. Sinful Ruin (TBA) 

Tropes

Dark Romance

Friends to Lovers

Sports Romance - Hockey & Dance 

College/New Age 

He Falls First 

Roommates to Lovers

Stalking 

Forbidden 

Bad Boy / Good Girl 

Leather and Lace (Black Diamond Ranch #1) by Kinsley Hunt

 

After my mother's death, I was thrown into a world I never asked to be part of - one built on bloodlines, legacies, and a father I've never met. I didn't come here looking for answers, but the ones I've found threatened to unravel everything. There are secrets buried deep in the soil of Black Diamond, and I should be afraid of what they'll cost me. But I'm not. Not when he's watching. Colter Shaw. The heir to the southern empire. Arrogant, magnetic, and cold as the bourbon in his glass. He's the kind of man who keeps people at arm's length - and yet looks at me like I'm the only thing worth touching. We're from two different worlds, raised on opposite sides of privilege and pain. He says I don't belong here. Maybe he's right. But that hasn't stopped him from acting like I do. Like I will. They warned me that Black Diamond would change me. What they didn't tell me is how much I'd want it to. Leather and Lace by Kinsley Hunt was published on January 2nd, 2026. This is the first book in the Black Diamond Ranch series. 

I was given this book for my honest review from Kinsley Hunt and The Smuthood. I absolutely loved this book. This book had me on the edge of my seat because things that I thought were not actually happening. It had so many twists and turns throughout the book that I was not expecting. Though, it did not have any plot holes at all at the end of the story. I absolutely loved how the author wrote the plot of this story. While there is not many spicy scenes it didn't take away from the story. I felt like both characters had depth that was slowly revealed through the book. I cannot wait to read the next book in the series and Kinsley Hunt is now on my favorite author list. I highly recommend checking out this story. 

Quotes that I Loved

"You'll get used to him. He's kind of like a yeast infection. Gone for a while but always pops back up when you least expect it." 

"Good girl." 

Damn. Why is my pussy so wet from this? I should be seeing red flags not yummy green ones. 

"Come on now, Little Star.....We're the stars. Meant to be. Giant balls of gas that blink out of existence only to blink right back in under a new sky...." 

Black Diamond Ranch Series

1. Leather and Lace 

Tropes

Dark Romance

Forced Proximity

Billionaire 

Age Gap 

Mafia 

Small town 

Reckless Need (Russo Mafia #3) by Lena Vox

 

I was given one order - watch her. Not want her. Not touch her. Definitely not make her mine. But Elena Messina is a beautiful disaster - sharp-tongued, reckless, and hiding secrets that could destroy us all. She slips past my men like smoke, playing games she doesn't understand, and walks straight into danger with those caramel eyes wide open. My job is to uncover her secrets. To keep her from becoming a threat. But the more I watch her, the more I crave her. I'm not her savior. I'm her shadow. The consignee who's seen too much blood to pretend I'm anything but deadly. And I'll protect her from the Irish, her father's debts, and every threat that comes her way. Even if the most dangerous thing in her life...is falling for me. Reckless Need by Lena Lox was published December 18th, 2025. This is book three of the Russo Mafia series. 

I was given this book for my honest review from Lena Lox and Literally Yours PR. I loved this book with the banter between Marco and Elena. They have this love hate relationship from the start of the book. The relationship was naturally building through the book. The characters were at the beginning flat but over the book they grew more rounded. I was able to picture the characters through the book. The plot of the story started slow and it was hard to get into it. But as you read further to give it more time it gets more active and it picks up fast after that. I highly recommend checking out this book and this series. 

Quotes that I Loved 

"It's not up for debate. You can hang out with your friend but I'm going too."
"I'm sorry--did you not hear the words 'girls' night'?......Is there a vagina hiding under that towel that I should known about? Because last I checked, you're very much not a girl." 

"You want me. I can see it every time you look at me. But you won't do anything about it. So forgive me if I went looking for someone who actually---" 

"Fuck it" 

Russo Mafia Series 

1. Savage Union

2. Brutal Kiss

3. Reckless Need

4. Wicked Games 

Tropes

Mafia 

Bodyguard

Age Gap

Grumpy/Sunshine

Forced Proximity

Forbidden 

Dark Romance 

Keep Me (Sinful Manor #1) by Sara Cate

 

All Killian Barclay wants is to be left the hell alone. He's had enough heartache to last a lifetime, and he has no more need for love - earning him the reputation of a broody Scot and eventually turning his famous ancestral home into a den of iniquity. It doesn't take long for tales of his raunchy house parties to reach the rest of his family, though, inspiring them to hatch a plan to shake Killian out of his routine. Keep Me by Sara Cate was published on December 3rd, 2024. This is the first book in the Sinful Manor series. 

I read this book awhile ago but I absolutely loved this book. It starts off slow but picks up quickly. I love the antics of Killian in trying to make Slyvie not fall in love with him. But of course it didn't work. The characters in this book are very well rounded. I could picture the characters. Both had faults and strengths. They also grew through the book to be able to get better when they were together. I could totally see how the characters balance each other and would work best together. The plot is great and easy to follow I didn't feel like there was anything that was left hanging at the end of the book. I recommend checking out this book from Sara Cate. 

Quotes that I Love 

"Where the fuck have you been?"
"Killian?"
"Get in the fucking car, Sylvie." 
"I'm not getting in there with you if you're going to yell at me like that." 
"I told you to get in the fucking car, women. You can either listen to me, or I'll toss you over my shoulder and put you in there myself."
"What is wrong with you?"
"For fuck's sake..."
"Okay, okay!....I'll get in. Just...relax."
"Relax?.....You have had us worried sick. Peter came looking for you, but you didn't answer your phone, and he couldn't find you." 
"I lost track of time. I'm sorry." 
"Just get in the fucking car." 

"You're all bark and no bite, my wee wife."

"Oh, I'll bite." 

Sinful Manor Series 

1. Keep Me 

2. Promise Me (TBA 2026) 

Tropes 

Enemies to Lovers

Marriage of Convenience 

Age-Gap

Dark Romance 

Billionaire 

Grumpy/Sunshine 

Ruthless Obsession (Crecent City Sins #1) by Rayna James

 

The masquerade gala was full of secrets, lies, and bloodstained power plays. It was also the beginning of my doom. When I stumbled into something I was never meant to see, the masks come off-and the danger becomes real. The mayor's men want my silence. My boyfriend's lies are unraveling. And the only person who seems to care whether I live or die is a stranger with murder in his eyes and a smile on his lips. Ruthless Obsession by Rayna James was published on April 23rd, 2025. This is the first book in the Crescent City Sins series. 

I was given this book for my honest review by Literally Yours PR and Rayna James. This was such a quick read that had me laughing at the antics of the characters. I fell in love with Kate in this book with her history that you get to know through the book and how strong she gets through the book.  Then there is Bastian who acts like this tough guy and you find out that in reality he is a giant teddy bear in the book. I still feel like the story is missing some history between the two characters. I felt like Bastian has known about Kate way before the book started. The plot in this book made me giggle and could not put the book down at all. There are minor errors throughout the book but the book was so well created that it's easy to overlook. The smut in this book is light but the romance gets you through the book. I highly recommend checking out this book. I know I want to read the next book in the series. 

Quotes that I Loved 

"This is where you pressure me. Say something like, 'Oh, the gentle giant groping your friend? He wouldn't hurt a fly." 

"Warning bells are clanging in my head."
"Because I called you beautiful?"
"No. This. All of this. Including you. It screams danger. And yet, I don't feel threatened. Maybe you're like a Venus flytrap, daring people to get close, charming them into safety...and then boom!" 

"Perhaps, I'm just marking my territory."
"First you say things like 'belong,' now 'territory." I'm not a remote island that needs to be colonized, you know."
"Either way, I'm planting my flag." 

Crescent City Sins series 

1. Ruthless Obsession 

2. Crowning Temptation 

Tropes

Mafia 

Dark Romance 

forced Proximity 

Billionaire 

Stalking 

Savage Obsession (Savage Sins #2) by Kate Oliver

 

I'm drowning in grief, anger, and whiskey. Haunted by my father's murder and what could have been. No matter what I do, my demons never stop pulling me under. Then I meet Quinn Summers, a beautiful ray of sweet sunshine. Her innocence ignites an obsession I can't control. She's everything I should stay away from. The last thing I want is to tarnish one of the only good things left in this world. But the more I fight it, the more she becomes my reason to breathe...my reason to live. Savage Obsession by Kate Oliver was published November 25th, 2025. This is the second book in the Savage Sins series. 

I was given this ARC for my honest review from Kate Oliver and The Smuthood. Now that's been said, I absolutely loved this book. So much that I really want to go read book one as I did not read it before I read this one. Though, you didn't need anything from book one I don't think so it's a-okay. Anyways, back to this book. This book has such an amazing plot that it was hard to put down the book to function in the real world. I mean who needs to feed their children and make sure they don't kill each other or sleep. The book had such an amazing plot that it was easy to see the characters Xander and Quinn falling for each other. Though, it cracks me that Quinn knows some of Xander's stalking behaviors that he thinks she doesn't know. I absolutely loved how Quinn brings out the best in Xander but yet doesn't destroy who he is. Both of the characters have so much background that you could imagine how their background created who each of them are. They have a lot of baggage but it was not overwhelming for the reader to understand what was going on. Also it was not taking over the whole plot (a huge plus in my book). Like I said, I fell in love with this book and I can't wait to read more books by Kate Oliver. She just made the top of my favorites list of authors. 

Quotes that I Loved 

"Sorry, Lassie. I prefer pit bulls over golden retrievers." 

"I'll never lie to you, Sunshine, so make sure you really want the answers to your questions." 

"No, asshole. I'm just trying to figure out in my head. I happen to have one of the highest IQs in the world, by the way, so I'd like to think I understand most things. But what I can't figure out is why you, the COO of Savage Entertainment, need me to hack your own system for employee information. Dude, if you're too dumb to use a computer, I can send you some videos. I think they're usually for preschool kids, but that's cool. I'm not judging." 

Savage Sins Series 

1. Savage Revenge 

2. Savage Obsession 

Tropes 

Dark Romance

Age Gap 

Billionaire

Boss/Employee 

Stalking 

Mafia Romance

Grumpy Sunshine

BDSM 

Troublemaker: A Dark College Hockey Romance (Tabb U #2) by Jo Brenner

Lucy Braverman might be eighteen, but she's my ward. Half my age, and completely off limits. I haven't seen her since she was an awkward, lonely orphan being shipped off to boarding school. Now she's brilliant, beautiful, and reckless. Every rebellious word that passes those lips makes me want to do dark and depraved things. So when she enrolls at the University where I'm the head hockey coach, I do everything in my power to stay away. But the hot little spitfire is determined to get under my skin. Control means everything to me...and if I have to exert dominance to protect her, I will. If I have to do illegal, immoral things to have her, I will. If I have to embrace the darkest parts of both of us to keep her, I will. Because Lucy may be completely off limits. But she's mine. Troublemaker by Jo Brenner was published November 15th, 2025. 

I was given this book for my honest review from Jo Brenner and The Smuthood. The characters in this book had me so into it that I needed more. They both had many many faults and a lot of strengths. They both grow through the book together and separate. While I enjoyed the book and its plot I still had the heebie jeebies knowing that Coach was also the guardian who was supposed to be like a father figure to Lucy. I was able to overlook the relationship knowing that Coach was able to send Lucy to a boarding school for most of the time. The story had some great ups and downs throughout the book. They had some massive build-up to some of the scenes that make you squeal. I highly recommend that you check it out. 

Quotes that I Loved 

"Well, as fun as it would be to desecrate something that's important to Coach, I don't think I want to come all over his whistle. Although....No, I'll find better ways to torture him." 

"You touch her?....Tell me. Did. You. Touch. Her?" 

"Yeah, he's hard for you, troublemaker. And I promise you're going to become intimately acquainted with him. But for now, daddy wants to eat." 

"Don't tell me I can't. Don't tell me anything right now. Daddy's eating, and he doesn't want any interruptions." 

Tabb U Series 

1. Butterfly: A Dark College Hockey Romance

2. Troublemaker: A Dark College Hockey Romance 

Tropes 

Age-Gap

Dark Romance 

Hockey 

Grumpy/Sunshine 

Forbidden Romance 

BDSM 

All's Fair in Love and Chaos (Queens & Heathens #1) by Jenn Plummer

 

Ten years ago, my family was brutally taken from me because of the actions of vicious criminals who live above the law. I've made it my life's purpose to bring those men to their knees, with my eyes focused on the man responsible for their deaths. Camden Young. Was becoming his prisoner my plan? Not even in the realm of possibilities. But one look at him on that bike, and the earth shook under me. For the first time in my life, I stumbled, and it could cost me everything. Now, I find myself locked in the Hell's Heathens' clubhouse, trying to conceal my identity. Torn between completing my goal to avenge my family and coming to terms with the fact that not everything is as it seems. All's Fair in Love and Chaos by Jenn Plummer was published November 13th, 2025. This is the first book in the Queens & Heathens series. 

I was given this book for free for my honest review from Jenn Plummer and The Smuthood. This book had me crying, laughing, giggling, fanning myself, and laughing some more. The characters Saige and Camden are top notch written. They felt like extremely real people that I could reach out and touch. I absolutely loved Saige though. I loved how she took her sadness and it shaped her to be someone strong who fights for what is right. Even though sometimes she gets it wrong. I loved how she shows everyone how strong she is and then she slowly lets go some of the power. Camden knows the worth of Saige in his life. He doesn't overpower in some sense unless he thinks it's needed. This book was so amazing from every page and it had some great ebb and flow on the plot. The spice in this book is top tier. It left me fanning myself in some parts because Holy Hotness...it was spicy. I highly recommend checking out this book. I cannot wait till the second book in the series comes out. 

Quotes that I Loved 

"Careful, I might think you're jealous."
"Of what? Your tiny cock and your inability to find a clit? I'm good, I fuck myself better than you ever could." 

"Oh. Well, that's part of the fun. I like it when they scream." 

"If I had my way, Camden, you'd be the one handcuffed to the bed while I rode your face, fucking myself on your tongue. After I came all over you, then I'd take your big dick inside me. I bet you'd fill me so good." 

"Has anyone ever told you, you've got quite the mouth on you? I'm sure it's gotten you into trouble before."
"I'm a ray of fucking Sunshine, I don't know what you're talking about...." 

Queens & Heathens Series 

1. All's Fair in Love and Chaos 

2. All's Fair in Love and Sin 

3. All's Fair in Love and Malice (TBA May 1st, 2026)

4. All's Fair in Love and Wrath (TBA August 6th, 2026) 

Tropes 

Dark Romance 

Enemies to Lovers

Forced Proximity

He Falls First

Motorcycle Club 

Brutal Kiss (Russo Mafia #2) by Lena Vox

 

I was given one job - protect the princess. Not fall for her. Not touch her. Definitely not kiss her like I own her. But Sofia Gallo is pure temptation - smart-mouthed, sharp-eyed, and too damn bold for her own good. She pushes every boundary, tests every rule. And I'm the only thing standing between her and a war that could rip our world apart. I'm not a good guy. I'm the enforcer. And I'll protect her with every brutal bone in my body. Even if the biggest threat to her safety....is me. Brutal Kiss by Lena Vox will be published on October 23rd, 2025. This book is the second book of the Russo Mafia series. 

I was given this book for my honest review from Lena Vox. Now, I am a parent of four kiddos and married to a lovely husband. But...I haven't been able to read a book in a whole day before until this book. I could not put this book down for nothing. I read it until I finished the whole book. For me saying that, it means that this book captured my attention to the very end. I was on the edge of my seat to see what was going to happen to Dante and Sofia. The characters capture your attention as they both have faults and strengths. Throughout the whole book the two characters grow more strength as they mature and fall in love. The plot in this story, keeps you so invested. There is action and yet there are times when you're like, "What is going to happen next?" Also times when you are questioning why are they being so stupid. I did not have any slow parts of the book but it was not overly filled with action scenes all the time. The plot flowed perfectly through each page. Also the smut scenes when they finally came up are on fire. You won't be disappointed. This new author to me is going to be on my list to follow and read more. 

Quotes That I Loved 

"Princess, I've been doing this job for fifteen years. You're going to have to try a lot harder than that to get away from me."

"You keep trying to run, I keep catching you. Sounds like a game to me."
"I need to get out of here....I need to be free." 

"You're playing with fire, princess."
"Maybe I want to get burned." 

"You okay?"

"I'm ruined."
"Good." 

"Get your fucking hands off her." 

Rosso Mafia Series 

1. Savage Union 

2. Brutal Kiss

3. Reckless Need 

Tropes

Dark Romance

Mafia 

Forced Proximity 

Bodyguard 

Forbidden Romance 

Pucking Unhinged (Kings of Castlebrook #3) by London Snow

 

Tristan Vale was forced to make a sick choice: hurt his foster sister or watch someone else do far worse. The quiet and brooding goalie is known for his ruthless demeanor on and off the ice. When it comes to Winter LeBlanc, his dominance is gentle, protective and possessive in the most unhinged ways. Winter believes Tristan's careful attention is focused solely on her because of the guilt he carries. She's only ever felt self with him, and now he needs his dark side to help her heal. The delicate ballerina is unaware that her foster brother's need for her consumes him to the point it keeps him up at night. She doesn't know that the day they were attacked was not the first time he killed for her. Now they've expected to go back to their regular lives, but his obsession with her grown more intense. Tristan tracks Winter's every move, caters to her every whim without her having to ask, and there isn't a thing he wouldn't do to keep her safe. He vows to hunt down those who tried to harm her, but the villain might be closer than either of them realize. Pucking Unhinged by London Snow was published on October 1st, 2025. This is book three of the Kings of Castlebrook series. 

I was asked to read this book for my honest review from The Smuthood and London Snow. I will say that this is the first book that I have read in the Kings of Castlebrook series. I love hockey romances even though I will say that I know nothing about hockey. I have seen one game once in my lifetime in person as a kid. But anyways, something about hockey romances have always drawn me in. This book didn't per say have a lot of hockey references through the book but you got here and there. The characters go to one or two games in the book. I really enjoyed the book though. The characters, I felt like could use some more personality and personal growth in the book. But the plot was really unique and I loved how it was certain around the two characters who were foster siblings. Though, there was a lot of build up in the book that lost me a few times. There is not a lot of smut in this book but it hints of more to come. The author created a really nice book that I kind of wished we saw more of the characters when they were foster siblings and what happened the night that Tristian was forced to take Winter's virginity. It was a good book and I highly recommend this easy read. 

Kings of Castlebrook Series

1. Pucking Obsessed 

1.5. Burn It Down

2. Pucking Possessive 

3. Pucking Unhinged 

3.5. A Very Unhinged Christmas 

Tropes

Dark Romance

Sports Romance - Hockey

Forced Proximity 

College Romance 

Forbidden Romance

He Falls First 

Friends to Lovers 

Small Town

Virgin