The One-Night Secret (Steele Brothers of Starlight Cove #5) by Brighton Walsh

 

I survived jail. One night with a gorgeous stranger wasn't supposed to be the hard part. But Rowan Wilder is a force to be reckoned with. A five-foot- nothing storm cloud in combat boots who marches toward men twice her size with nothing but a baseball bat and sharp mouth. She's the first woman to get under my skin...and the last one I should be touching. I came to Starlight Cove looking for the father who abandoned my mom and me. Instead, I find four half-brothers who want me gone yesterday and the fiercely protective single mom who makes leaving feel impossible. When a broken-down car stands me in Rowan's attic and a storm lands me back in her bed, I'm suddenly sharing a roof with someone who looks like sin, tastes like temptation, and feels a hell a lot like home. Trouble is, her ex keeps circling like she still belongs to him. He's wrong. And I'm one bad decision away from making sure he knows it. Protecting Rowan is easy. Breaking through her defenses is not. She's spent years building walls around the life she's fought hard to create, and falling for another ex-con isn't part of her plan. Walking away would be the smart move. But I didn't survive everything I have just to be smart. I survived it all to be hers. The One-Night Secret by Brighton Walsh will be published on October 1st, 2026. This is the fifth book in the Steel Brothers of Starlight Cove series. 

I was given this book for my honest review from Brighton Walsh and The Smuthood. Ahhh....I was bouncing off the walls when I received the email saying I was selected to read this book before it was published. Brighton Walsh is one of my favorite authors since I read the series Starlight Cove last year. Anyways, I had to skip all the other books on my advance copy list because I could not put this down on the list. I had to immediately start reading about Maverick. Let me tell you, when you first meet Maverick your thinking oh jeez he's the tough shit who is going to ruin everyone's day. But in reality, he's a teddy bear who loves to tinker with things that are broken. Also...he has an amazing collection of shirts that just give scenes some comedic chuckle. I absolutely loved the two main characters. We meet Rowen in other books as she has been ingrained with the Steele family. But, to hear her backstory through the book and why she has this thick layer skin on her at all times. It really made you fall in love with her even more. Also with how she raises her own teenage boys. Which reminded me of how my teenagers in my own house give me shit. I absolutely loved the two characters in how they shape each other to become their best self. Yes, Maverick does get through Rowen's layers. But I love how he also supports her without taking over. I highly recommend checking this book out. I seriously hope that Brighton Walsh writes more about Starlight Cove. I have grown to love that small town and want to move there. 

Steel Brothers of Starlight Cove Series

1. The Grump Next Door 

2. The Live-In Temptation 

3. The Mr & Mrs Mistake

4. The Roommate Rules 

5. The One-Night Secret 

Tropes 

Forced Proximity 

Small Town Romance 

Single Parent 

Roommates to Lovers 

Braving the Storm (Crimson Ridge #2) by Elliott Rose

 

I'm not supposed to feel this way....I never wanted to disappear more than while around my family. Briar Lane, the girl only useful for one thing: my surname. A business handshake and pawn to be traded. My father's chess piece shuffled between empires. That was my life back in L.A., but all it took was finding the dirty secret stuffed in a jacket pocket, and my entire world unraveled. So, I fled to the one place I knew they could never find me: Crimson Ridge. Arriving in this snowy, harsh world, I thought I'd be starting over on my own, but it turns out I couldn't have been more wrong. The abandoned mountain cabin I inherited isn't what it seems. This mountain hides secrets. An ex-pro bull rider consumes this space, and now, my every thought with it...Storm and Lane. My father's adopted brother. We should never have found ourselves isolated out here in the mountains together, each trying to outrun our pasts. All it took was one misunderstanding, one line almost crossed, and everything changed. A girl like me isn't supposed to know what those tattooed hands feel like, and I'm certainly not meant to feel butterflies anytime that pair of piercing blue eyes land on mine. He might be my every fantasy, a cowboy I constantly dream about, but he's a temptation I have to ignore. A man I absolutely cannot find myself attracted to. Even when he's looking at me with the kind of hunger that can only spell ruin for us both. Long, dark nights spent in this tiny cabin can't be the excuse to step into forbidden territory. Or can they? Braving the Storm by Elliott Rose was published on November 13th, 2024. This is the second book in the Crimson Ridge series. 

I was given this book for my honest review from Elliott Rose and The Smuthood. So I am not a huge fan of what feels like grooming behavior. So this book sent up red flags at the beginning of the book. I was going to dnf it pretty quickly. Though, I am glad that I was able to stick with it as it finally dawned on me that it Briar and Storm didn't have much of a relationship at all when she was a child. So I was able to move past it all. Also Storm is not her blood uncle but he was adopted as a child. Anyways, I really enjoyed this story once I got past me feeling like it had red flags everywhere. I loved the relationship that Storm and Briar had through the book and how it shifted. You can see the tension between the two characters as they both fought the feelings they had for each other. I also loved how you can see both of them growing into better individuals the more they are with each other. The plot of the book is great and it flowed. I didn't feel like it was too slow in parts and I didn't feel rushed in others. It flowed like a river. I highly recommend checking out this book. 

Crimson Ridge Series 

1. Chasing the Wild

2. Braving the Storm 

2.5: Bouquets & Buckles 

3. Taming the Heart 

4. Saving the Rain

4.5: Saddles & Snowfall 

Tropes

Small Town 

Forced Proximity 

Forbidden 

Grumpy Sunshine 

Clock Play (Rock City Renegades #5) by C.L. Rose

 

All I ever wanted was to play football. I made it my life, sacrificing romantic relationships, figuring I'd have all the time in the world after I hung up my cleats for good. But here I am: in my late thirties, single, and ready to accept that I may never have a family of my own. But everything changes the moment I lay eyes on Paris Bellamy - the beautiful, strong, captivating single mother of three who's more than ten years my junior. I'm supposed to be coaching her sons and working alongside her at the Renegades facility, but when my cravings to care for her become too incessant to ignore, I find myself on her doorstep, desperate to be let in. She wants to find herself after years of being torn down by her toxic ex. I'm determined to show her just how priceless she is, but can I be the man she needs? Or will I be left to go on without the woman and children who've quickly become the best part of my days? Clock Play by C.L. Rose was published on August 27th, 2026. This is the fifth book in the Rock City Renegades series. 

I received this book for my honest review from C.L. Rose and The Smuthood. I absolutely loved this story and could not put it down. The plot of this story flowed so well together that I didn't feel like I was rushed or that there was unnecessary info that made it drag on. Each page is just built upon each other. The characters....they were I think one of the best of the series. I thought that I loved Austin from the other books in the series. The way that he helped the other guys get their girls. Also the way of his friendship he had with the girls. But, I for sure added Austin to my book boyfriend's collection from this novel. The way that he was so patient with Paris and the way that he let her be independent but yet didn't mind stepping in to help her. Also the way that he didn't mind being there for the kids. It was the chief's kiss! I loved Paris, and how she was trying to find herself in this book. How she was wanting to be the best mom she could for her three children and just pushing herself. It really shows how a good single parent is with her kids. Both characters I felt that I could picture in real life. They both had strengths and weaknesses. Also loved how their love was not instant in the book. It was built by Austin doing the little things. I could totally picture the two of them falling in love through the book. I highly recommend reading not only this book but also the series. I can't wait to read other series that are by C.L. Rose as she knows how to write love stories. 

Rock City Renegades Series 

1. Mr. Irrelevant 

2. Bad Call 

3. The Interception

4. Red Zone 

5. Clock Play 

Tropes 

single parent 

sports - football 

forced proximity 

friends to lovers

Brother's Best Friend

He Falls First 

Lucky Mother Pucker (Hollis U #4) by Sarah Smith

I didn't mean to get the pretty barista at the coffee shop fired. But after a fight with my hypercritical, hockey-obsessed dad, I was in the worst mood and took it out on her. Now she's out of a job because of me. And when I finally learn her name, I learn some other things about her too. Lucy Bailey is down to her last dollar and living in her car. I'm desperate to make things right, so I move her into my house for free until she gets back on her feet. It's not long before we go from roommates to friends....then something more...After a night of nonstop flirting, she asks to share my bed...which leads to the hottest hookup. We agree to keep things fun and filthy, nothing serious...but I'm falling for her. But she's guarded and doesn't trust anyone. When it comes to hockey, I know all the rules. But when it comes to love, I'm clueless. I need to show Lucy that I'll always play my heart out when it comes to her. Lucky Mother Pucker by Sarah Smith was published on September 14th, 2026. This is the fourth 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. This book was no different as I read each page. I absolutely loved Leo and Lucy as the main character. They both were well rounded as characters in this book. I felt like they both had some strengths and weakness. The two characters balanced the weaknesses out and you can see how well their relationship grew on each page. I absolutely thought this book worked amazing for a slow burn. I don't think it would have worked as well if it was fast paced as it would feel like they just fell straight to bed with each other. I also loved how the characters from the other books in the series rallied behind Lucy and her struggles. Also the dog, Wally was a huge hit with me. The smut scenes in this book were perfect and sweet for the most part. I thought it was going to have a different kink showing but the novel really didn't pursue it. I highly recommend checking this book out. 

Hollis U Series 

1. Cocky Mother Pucker

2. Grumpy Mother Pucker

3.  Hot Mother Pucker

4. Lucky Mother Pucker 

Tropes 

Roommates to Lovers 

Slow Burn 

Sports - Hockey 

Stranded in Starlight Cove (Starlight Cove #0.5) by Brighton Walsh

 

Quick Word: I am so sorry for my readers that I haven't posted anything lately. I decided it would be fun to fall in a small hole at a wedding. A wedding where I was a guest and not only that everyone saw me fall. Let's top that and also say that my dress went flying up (thank god I wore biker shorts) and I also broke my ankle this fall. 

I've been avoiding my best friend's little sister for three long years because I shouldn't be attracted to a woman a decade my junior. But when she calls and begs me to bail her out of another one of her disasters, I drop everything to rescue her. I spend way too much on a last minute plane ticket to Starlight Cove, Maine, with nothing on my mind but getting her butt safely back to Havenbrook as soon as possible. At least until I arrive and realize I'm trapped right along with her. And now I have to figure out how to avoid the one woman I'm not supposed to want while we're stuck in a tiny cottage that has only one bed. Stranded in Starlight by Brighton Walsh was published on January 1st, 2023. This is a novella that is right at the beginning of the Starlight Cove series. 

I was so lucky to see that Brighton Walsh made this book free to some on her newsletter awhile back. I didn't realize that I missed a book from the Starlight Cove series. So let's talk about this book, this book made me giggle so much. I loved how the characters from the other books make their appearance. Of course it's before the characters meet their someone special. So they are their cranky selves in this book. Though, I miss some other side characters but it was easy to overlook. I absolutely loved the two characters in this book. Brighton Walsh knows how to create characters that feel so rounded that I feel like they could be in the same room as me. They both have faults but they also both show their growth in this book. Also even though the book is short I didn't feel like the relationship between the FMC and the MMC was rushed as you read the backstory of them through the book. I really wish that Brighton, would have had this book be a full size book instead of a Novella. I really want to see what happens when they get back to Havenbrook. But alas she only shows us what happens when they are in Starlight Cove. I highly recommend checking out this amazing book. 

Starlight Cove Series 

0.5: Stranded in Starlight Cove 

1: Defiant Heart 

2: Protective Heart 

3: Fearless Heart 

4: Reckless Heart 

5: Possessive Heart 

6: Rebel Heart 

Tropes 

Age-Gap

Small Town 

Brothers Best Friend 

Friends to Lovers 

Forced Proximity 

It's About Time (Blossom Peak #4) by Harlow James

 

Pretending to be engaged to my enemy might not be my brightest idea. But it is definitely necessary. On the brink of the biggest car show of my career, I start to panic because it's the first time I have to see my ex since our break-up. Spoiler alert: It wasn't clean or amicable. Then when Elliot Thorne's ex-fiance shows back up in town, I devise a plan for both of us to get what we want: a buffer from our exes with a dash of revenge. The problem is Elliot takes his role to protect me too seriously. He brings me food while I'm working to make sure I eat. He even silences the self-doubt I feel on a day-to-day basis. And before I know it, he has me on my knees in my garage, and on my back on the hood of my car. The hate I've harbored toward him melts away as fast as my panties, and I soon realize we have more in common than I thought. Then he tells me a secret that makes me reevaluate our entire relationship. Now I'm left to consider if something fake could be real...And that maybe it's about time I admit that Elliot isn't my enemy after all. It's About Time by Harlow James was published on July 10th, 2026. This is the fourth book in the Blossom Peak series. 

I was given this book for my honest review from Harlow James and The Smuthood. I had that amazing pleasure to be able to review all four of the books in this series. I was so excited for this couple to finally get their heads on straight. This book had lots of lead up through the other books in the series. So by the time this one came around it was a massive tension that was building. So I highly recommend reading the first three books in the series. Anyways, I absolutely love the FMC and MMC in this book. They are both so different from each other that you can see how their relationship blows up. The build up in this book and to see how they are finally seeing that there is more than hatred towards each other. It is perfection. I am actually really bummed that the series is coming to an end. The smut scenes will leave you satisfied. I highly recommend checking out this amazing book and series. 

Quotes that I Loved 

"Now, go. Scrub your pits and balls, Thorne. I don't have all day." 

"Couch"

"Having a love affair with your couch now?"

"Yes. This couch has never let me down, unlike some people." 

"Jesus, you really do need someone to suck you off, don't you? Like a penis exorcism, maybe?" 

"Such a good fucking girl." 

Blossom Peak Series 

1. All This Time 

2. On Borrowed Time 

3. Test of Time 

4. It's About Time 

Tropes 

Enemies to Lovers 

Small Town 

He Falls First 

Brothers Best Friend 

Slow Burn 

Fake Dating 

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

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 

Tropes 

Friends to Lovers 

Slow Burn

Virgin 

Sports - Hockey 

College Age 

Forced Proximity 

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 

Tropes

Enemies to Lovers

Brother's Best Friend

Secret Romance 

Sports - Hockey 

College 

Grumpy Sunshine 

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 

Tropes 

Sports - Football 

BDSM 

Forced Proximity 

Enemies to Lovers 

He Falls First 

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 

Convincing the Catcher (The Good Girls of NE University #2) by Hannah Gray

 

From a young age, I knew things to be true. Number one, I was going to play professional softball. And number two, in order to get there, I couldn't allow myself any distractions. Ever. Being a type 1 diabetic catcher at a division one college, I'm no stranger to challenges. But when my dad gets diagnosed with cancer and my mom finds herself drowning in his medical bills, losing our health insurance while my dad becomes unrecognizable has me questioning my own strengths. Cane Hall is the stepson of retired NHL legend Tripp Talmage. He's also NEU's most beloved baseball player. At least, he was before one mistake has everyone second guessing his integrity, and he finds himself at odds with social media backlash. As NEU's first type 1 diabetic female catcher, I have my share of fans. And when Cane approaches me, offering to pay for my prescriptions in return for me faking a friendship to help him save his image...I somehow find myself saying yes. Under one condition-no romance. No feelings. Because I don't do boyfriends. Especially ones that look like Cane Hale. But when my dad dies, Cane is there, being everything I need him to be, making it hard not to fall for him. And though he distracts me from my grief, eventually, I know i'm going to come head to head with the pain. So, will I let Cane hold my hand while I face it? Or will I do what I do best and push him away? Not long ago, I would have known the answer. But now, I have no idea. Convincing the Catcher by Hannah Gray was published on March 16th, 2026. This is the second book in The Good Girls of NE University series. 

I was given this book for my honest review by Hannah Gray and The Smuthood. I was so excited to read this book as I loved the first book of the series. This book made me giggle and smile throughout the book until Harley's dad passed away. I sobbed and sobbed as the relationship between the Harley and her dad you could see how much she loved her dad. Though, I loved the romance in this book and how the two characters were supporting each other. The spicy scenes were top notch even though I thought that Harley was in no way ready for it when they finally both gave in. The two characters in this book are both well rounded as they both have a past that affects their future. They also both grow through this book as a person and are even better because of their relationship. I highly recommend checking out this amazing book. I cannot wait for the third book in this series. 

Quotes that I Loved 

"Seriously, I was here all last year and never even ran into you. Now you're popping up like a jack-in-the-box." 

"I know. How dare he make money for his charity with our fine asses? With my luck, I'll get bought by some old cougar or something." 
"Old cougar need love too, Hale!...Besides, maybe she'll, like, bake you cookies or some shit." 
"Why the fuck would she pay for a date with him and then bake him cookies?"
"Because old ladies love to bake, dickwad! And they're good at it. I mean, fuck, if I could live to play hockey for ninety years, I'd probably get pretty good too. You know?" 
"But your body would be decrepit, Einstein." 

Stupid six-pack. Stupid wet six-pack. Stupid V-line and stupid towel. 

The Good Girls of NE University Series

1. Getting the Goalie 

2. Convincing the Catcher

3. Stealing The Shortstop

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

Tropes

Sports - Baseball / Softball 

Friends to Lovers 

He Falls First 

New Age 

Slow Burn 

Virgin

Forced Proximity

Redemption for Them (Nashville Security #5) by Sara Evou

 

Redemption comes at a price. And I'm not sure either of us can afford it...My life was perfect. On the surface. In truth, my husband was a vicious man. I was just a pawn in his dangerous game. But when he was murdered, there was only one obvious suspect. Me. I didn't expect anyone to be there for me. So, imagine my surprise when Chris Rivers showed up to defend me. Chris is a brilliant attorney. Observant. Entirely too good breaking down the emotional walls I've built to protect myself. Falling for him would be a huge mistake. But every time he looks at me like I'm worth fighting for, like the shattered, broken pieces of my heart might fit perfectly with his own, I forget why loving him would be so wrong. So...forbidden. I've trusted Chris with my life. He's the only one who can save me. The only question now is, will he still want to when he learns the truth about what really happened to my husband? Redemption for Them by Sara Evou was published on February 25th, 2026. This is the fifth book in the Nashville Security series. 

I was given this book for my honest review from Sara Evou and Love Notes PR. I was really excited to check out this book because I have not read anything by this author. Also that it seemed like a story-line that I have not come across yet while reading. I have not read book one through four yet. So things that I liked were I enjoyed the characters in the book. I felt like the characters had their own faults and secrets that slowly came out through the book. I also liked the plot for the most part of the book. I felt by the end of the book a lot of things were answered in the book. Now, I struggled with the romance part of the book. I felt like it was not needed in the book. It felt like the relationship was rushed especially for someone coming out of a harsh relationship that Lily had. I felt like she would be more uneasy around men and being in a relationship afterwards. All in all I did enjoy the book but I felt like it was lacking something. 

Quotes that I Loved 

"Your second favorite? What's your first?"
"These tits. They are magnificent. If I could be smothered by them, I would die, not just happy, but ecstatic." 

Nashville Security Series

1. Found by Him

2. Peace for Her

3. Protected by Him

4. Love for Her

5. Redemption for Them 

Tropes

Forced Proximity

Slow Burn

Forbidden 

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 

Sneak Play (The Playbook #3) by L.A. Shaw

 

I may be known as the campus flirt. But the truth is I've only ever wanted one thing more than hockey...and that's her. Shay Moore. Not only is she my hockey coach's daughter, but she's also the star point guard on the women's basketball team here at Mountain Ridge University. My draw to her is unlike anything I've ever experienced before, but there's one huge problem...her boyfriend. The one who doesn't deserve her. So I've stayed in my lane, admired from a distance, and accepted residency in the friend zone. Patiently hoping for my chance to tell her what I should have told her years ago. Until this summer...Sneak Play by L.A. Shaw was published on December 4th, 2025. This is the third book in The Playbook series. 

I was given this book for my honest review from L.A. Shaw and The Smuthood. So, I am not much a fan of slow burns as other tropes. But then tend to find me and I give them my honest effort to get through them. I have to say though this book surprised me with the slow burn. Though, I think I was rooting for the wrong couple in the book. I absolutely loved the characters in this book especially Mav in the book. He made me laugh at his antics but also fall in love with him. As a mom of a child with autism the author portrayed that aspect in the book correctly. I absolutely loved the characters and wish that I too can hang out with them at the college house. Now, the romance I struggled with. I could see the characters having a friendship but felt like it was really one sided when they took it further. It didn't make me squeal or anything. There is not very much smut in this book except near the end of the book. So if you want some smut and lots of it then this book is not for you. It's a sweet book and it's a feel good book. A good palate cleanser when you have been in the dark romance section. 

Quotes That I Loved 

Sometimes, I want to forget about the fact that she has a boyfriend and pretend she's mine. 

"A morning grope is a great way to kick off my Monday." 

The Playbook Series

1. Replay

2. Trick Play

3. Sneak Play

Tropes

Sports - Hockey/Basketball 

Friends to Lovers 

Slow Burn

New Age / College 

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 

Play the Game (Boston Hearts #4) by Samantha Brinn

 

Evan Rhodes is the bane of my existence. She's frustrating, competitive, irritatingly brilliant, and annoyingly beautiful - a fellow lawyer with a steely spine, sharp tongue, and an unmatched ability to get under my skin. With two of us and one open partnership position available at the law firm where we work, we're locked in a battle of wills with no resolution and no end in sight. Until a single moment of late-night insanity fueled by not enough sleep, too much caffeine, a dark conference room, and a floor-to-ceiling window overlooking the city of Boston ties us to each other in a way that wasn't in either of our life plans. Play the Game by Samantha Brinn was published on November 14th, 2025. This is book four of the Boston Hearts series. 

I was given this book for my honest review from Samantha Brinn and The Smuthood. I absolutely loved this book. This book had me giggling throughout the book. Also I felt for Evan in the book. The characters in this book are such a joy to read. They both are well rounded with each fault and strengths through the book. They both grow as a person by themselves and together. The passion through this book is top T from the beginning. The plot of this story flowed so well that I had to keep reading. Which is hard to do when you have four kids in eight activities. I absolutely love this book and cannot wait to read more from Samantha Brinn and some from this series. 

Quotes that I Loved 

"I'm not buying you a new Prada shirt. Play stupid games, win stupid prizes, Rhodes." 

"Don't want to tell me how good I make you feel? How badly do you want to come on my cock? It's okay, Rhodes. You don't have to say the words for me to know it's true."
"Fuck you." 

"Well happy fucking birthday, Cooper. I got you a baby." 

"Good girl." 

Boston Hearts Series 

1. Yours to Lose 

2. Not Your Girl 

3. Just My Type 

4. Play the Game 

Tropes 

enemies to lovers 

Love Deep (Colorado Club Billionaires #2) by Louise Bay

 

My life is basically a three-item to-do. 1. Keep my eight year old daughter happy. 2. Keep my job at the elementary school. 3. Keep my big, scary dream of being a full-time artist locked up where it can't break my heart. Easy. Manageable. Drama-free. And then Fisher Wright strolls into Star Falls. Tall. Charming. British. The kind of dangerously attractive that should come with a warning label-or maybe a hazmat suit in my size. He's here for eight weeks, helping a famous music superstar record her next album. We have one harmless, flirty conversation at the local bar. Then it's wine on my porch. Then stolen kisses by the falls. Then...oh no, actual feelings. The big, messy, life-complicating kind I swore I didn't have time for. But his life is in New York. Mine is here. And long-distance fairytales? Please. They don't come true - especially when there's a kid involved. Love Deep by Louise Bay was published on October 9th, 2025. This is the second book in the Colorado Club Billionaires series. 

I was asked to review this book for my honest review from The Smuthood and Louise Bay. This was the first book that I have read in the series by Louise Bay. I have to say that I actually quite liked the book. The characters at first felt a little flat and it was hard to get into. But as the book continued I fell more into liking the two main characters. Though I think Riley stole the show with her silly little kid antics in the book though I think she acted mature for her age through the book. I felt like the book had a slow build up that it was hard to keep reading through the book. I didn't really get into the book until half of the book was done. Then I couldn't put the book down. I loved how the characters had to figure out their own lives separate from each other as well as figure out their lives together. The book, didn't really have a ton of smut scenes that you kind of see in several romance books. But, they were a nice touch in the book when they appeared. The romance was there throughout the book. I recommend checking this book out. 

Quotes That I Loved 

"Now, you can have that one for free. You were so wet. You needed it so badly. But next time, you won't come without asking."
"Really?"
"Really. You can't come without my permission." 

"....Remember to be a good girl and ask permission before you come." 

"Hi, you two. Thanks for inviting me. I could eat a cow."
"A cow....Like really? Are you going to order a cow? I don't even know if they have it on the menu?" 

Colorado Club Billionaires 

1. Love Fast 

2. Love Deep 

3. Love Hard (TBA) 

Tropes 

Small Town Romance

Slow Burn 

Second Chance

Single Parent 

Billionaire 

Rebel Heart (Starlight Cove #6) by Brighton Walsh

 

Harper Davidson has been ingrained on my heart since we were kids, and now she's tattooed on my skin. But she'll never know about either. Not when she's better off thinking we're enemies. Having her in my space every day and sharing a wall with her every night is a challenge I never saw coming. A challenge I'm not sure I'm up to. Especially when our daytime games turn into nighttime dares, pushing each other to the breaking point until our neighbors know exactly who's making her scream. As lines blur and feelings deepen, we begin teetering on the edge of something more. And it's becoming harder to pretend that this is nothing - that she is nothing. Because this second chance is starting to feel like a last chance. Rebel Heart by Brighton Walsh was published on July 2024. This is book six of the Starlight Cove series. 

I have really enjoyed this series and a lot of books by Brighton Walsh. So I was really excited when this book came out. I couldn't wait to get started and started. I finished this book within a few days of checking it out. I loved the build up in this book. The characters don't see each other coming throughout the book. Though, it was interesting to see how much changes with them as they grow in the book. The characters, Harper and Levi are well rounded both with a lot of faults in the book. You see a lot of Levi's siblings through the book which you introduced in the other books. Also you really fall in love with the whole town of Starlight Cove. The plot of this story flows amazing and the smut scenes are tame compared to other books that I have read. But they are amazing and I highly recommend checking out this book, because you will fall in love with Levi. 

Quotes that I Loved 

"If I wanted to know how well I fuck now, Sparrow, you could've just asked." 

"Get on the bike, Harper...We're going to the same place."

"I can walk."

"I never said you couldn't. But it's midnight and you're alone. And I don't give a shit if we live in the most boring town in the country, I'm not just going to drive off and let you walk home by yourself. Now, get on the fucking bike." 

"If I tell you the secret, will you get on your knees and pray to it, Sparrow?" 

"Time to be my dirty girl, Sparrow." 

Starlight Cove Series

0.5: Stranded in Starlight Cove 

1. Defiant Heart

2. Protective Heart 

3. Fearless Heart 

4. Reckless Heart 

5. Possessive Heart 

6. Rebel Heart 

Tropes

Second Chance 

Small Town

Enemies to Lovers

Forced Proximity

Friends to Lovers 

Slow Burn

Childhood Friends

He Falls First