Two Book Pushers

Tough Luck is the first book in the A-List Security series by Annabeth Albert. I’m a huge fan of Annabeth’s and I’m loving this new series! This is an age-gap, best friend’s brother romance and I loved every second of it! Cash is a retired SEAL and Danny is an ex-actor who’s being stalked and needs some help. Cash agrees to help Danny as a favor to his best friend, Duncan. He’s expecting Danny to be a spoiled diva, but he’s nothing like he thought. Danny didn’t expect a huge, burly man to show up at his house while he was doing naked yoga. But he’s glad he’s there because he gets another threat. This one scares him enough to pack a bag and find a safe place with Cash for a few days. Cash always knew there was something about him he wasn’t quite sure about. The more he gets to know Danny, he’s pretty sure he’s always liked men, but being a SEAL, he never felt safe to be who he was. Now he has the opportunity to explore his thoughts, feelings and desires. Danny is totally on board to show Cash what he’s been missing. Along the way, they share their lives and their bodies. Danny is learning more about himself and what he wants to do with his life. Cash is finally comfortable in his own skin. There’s still a dangerous stalker out there, but together they can overcome anything! I loved Danny and Cash! They are opposites in looks and lifestyle, but they just fit together. They know when to have fun and when to be serious. They also have crazy hot chemistry! I couldn’t get enough of them and I can’t wait for the next book in the series!

New Release & Reviews – Sweet, Adriana Locke

March 14, 2022 | Posted in New Release, Review | By Two Book Pushers

Title: Sweet
Author: Adriana Locke
Cover Designer: Kari March
Release Date: February 28, 2022
Buy link: https://geni.us/SweetLocke

TROPES: single dad, workplace romance, grumpy hero, age gap, forced proximity

Synopsis:

USA Today Bestselling author Adriana Locke delivers a “fresh and fun!” romance between a grumpy single dad and his beautiful, spunky employee—the one he can’t have.

Chemistry is not love.

That’s what my boss, the grumpy single dad with brilliant green eyes, says anyway.

I have my V-card. He’s ten years older than me. I work for him.

Nate Hughes has a million reasons why a relationship between us would never work. Honestly? It’s all a farce.

He can’t deny our connection. His soft smiles, brief touches, and protective behaviors come too easily. And when I need a place to stay? He can’t stop himself from offering me a room—though I’d prefer his bed. After all, there are sparks—delicious, sizzling sparks—when we’re together.

Our forced proximity brings things to a head. Our shared experiences and traumas draw us closer. Our undeniable attraction has us toeing the line between friends and lovers—whether Nate likes it or not.

He’s right—chemistry is not love. But that doesn’t mean that I won’t fall in love with him … even if he can’t love me back.

Excerpt:

#2:

“Do you want me to pay rent or help with groceries? We really didn’t go over any of that,” she says, licking her lips.

My gaze settles on her finger approaching the pudding container again. “You’re a college student with a part-time job. You don’t have any money.”

“That’s true.” She smiles smugly before lifting her eyes to mine. “I’m sure we could come up with something.”

She trails her finger around the walls of the plastic before bringing it to her lips again. With her hand poised in front of her face, she smiles at me.

Nope. Not letting that happen.

I clamp her wrist with my hand and suspend it in midair. Her eyes go wide, her breath halting in her throat as she waits for my reaction.

Her skin is warm in my palm. Her wrist is so small, so delicate, that I ease my grip so I don’t accidentally hurt her.

I’m not sure why I touched her, but it’s either because I’m sleep-deprived and it’s late or I want to teach her a lesson. Or maybe I just want to see her reaction.

I stare at her as deeply as I can. She holds her breath as she considers—hopes? fears?—what I’m going to do.

I twist her wrist and bring her hand to my face. A smirk settles on my lips as her entire body stills.

Then with the most deliberate move I’ve ever made, I bring her finger to my mouth.

My heart thunders in my chest as my self-restraint shatters into a million pieces.

I suck her finger between my lips. She gasps, her body shaking in response. I run my tongue around the pudding before biting lightly against her skin as I remove her digit from my mouth.

Every muscle in my body tightens. My blood heats to a dangerous degree. My hand trembles as I hold her hand in mine and try desperately not to tug her whole body into me.

Her chest heaves. She forces a swallow as she leans back against the counter. Her breath is loud and quick, breaking the silence of the room.

“Shit,” she says, a mixture of a plea and a promise.

I just look at her and smile. “Is that what you wanted?”

She swallows again.

I release her wrist from my palm. Then I lean in until we’re only inches apart—until I’m so close that I can smell the sweetness of her breath—and grin.

“That’s the only time my mouth will get anywhere near you.” I turn toward the doorway, ignoring the protest of every cell in my body. “I’ll see you in the morning.”

Sweet is the sixth book in the Landry series by Adriana Locke. This is Nate and Paige’s story and I’ve been looking forward to it since I knew they were going to get together. Nate is Dominic’s brother and Paige is Hollis’s sister (Hollis is one of my favorite characters of Adriana’s!!) Paige works for Nate and they have always had chemistry and their flirt game is strong. Nate is running a business, working part-time for Landry security and raising his son. He doesn’t have time for flings. He wants forever. Paige is young, having fun, trying to get her college degree. She wants Nate, but she only wants temporary. They both have pasts that made them who they are and they weren’t easy to overcome. Nate already knows that once he touches Paige, it’s game over for him. Paige isn’t so sure. She’s so used to being in relationships that she knows won’t last long, but Nate is not that guy. She wants to run from her feelings and from him. Nate just has to prove to her that she can’t outrun love and show her that he will always find her and bring her back. Oh, Nate. I love you! You are grumpy and sexy and funny. Loyal, protective, fierce and such a good dad. Paige is stronger than she things for surviving her childhood. She has a loving family now and of course, Hollis, her brother. I just love him so much! Paige’s brothers are getting books so I’m hopeful that means more Hollis. 🙂

Sweet is the sixth and I believe final book in the Landry Family series by Adriana Locke. Each book follows a different couple so you can read them as standalones but I highly recommend reading the series since it is fantastic. Even though Nate is not a Landry he is part of the family being Dominic’s brother.

Nate is a single dad to seven-year-old, Ryder. He is also a bar owner and a part-timer at Landry Security. His life is full taking care of his son and his bar. He didn’t think he was missing out on anything until she walked in eight months ago and turned his world upside down with her sass and flirt. He loves their friendship and they way they flirt, at work where things can’t cross the line. But now, with Paige needing a place to stay changes everything…

Paige’s beginnings were not easy. Her life now is a work-in-progress. Hence, her eviction. She needs a place to stay and she has always felt safe with her boss, Nate. They have a fun friendship. Does she want him? Hell yes. Does she want a forever? No, she runs away from it. Nate does want a forever kind of love so they can’t go further than their flirty banter. It would be too heartbreaking in the end for all three involved so it is what it is until it isn’t…

I ♥️ Nate Hughes! I♥️ Paige! I ♥️ Ryder! These three are amazing. Their lives have not been easy. Their childhoods were heartbreaking and I love that they found each other. I adore them. And I can’t wait for the Carmichaels! These men are hilarious form what we get a glimpse of through Paige.

Quotes:

“I think you like it when I fuck with you.” I bite my bottom lip. “Don’t you, Nate?”
His grin isn’t friendly or amused. It’s sinful.

Maddox: Your dumb-as-shit brother was doing God knows what and broke it.
Me: Dude, that’s YOUR brother. You share his DNA. Not me.
Maddox: You know what? I resent you using your adoption status to your advantage in times like these.

“Ugh. It was an accident, Dad.”
Paige stands at the edge of the mess and grins. “Yeah, Dad.”
I smirk. “Doesn’t have the same effect as Daddy.”
“I will never call you that seriously,” she says, laughing.

New Release & Reviews – Stone, Sawyer Bennett

March 10, 2022 | Posted in New Release, Review | By Two Book Pushers

Stone (Pittsburgh Titans, Book 2)
Sawyer Bennett
Release Date: March 1, 2022

Synopsis:

Minor league player Stone Dumelin lost his younger brother when the Titans’ team plane went down. He never expected the phone call that followed.

After a shoulder injury put my NHL career on ice, I resigned myself to the fact I’d never see my way out of the minor league again. As my career faded, my estranged brother’s star shot into orbit as the first line left winger for the Pittsburgh Titans. But when the team’s plane crashed returning home one night, his light was snuffed out, and I was given the opportunity of a lifetime.

Now I’m in Pittsburgh, playing for the Titans, and face-to-face with my dead brother’s ghost at every turn. His locker, his legacy, his persistent and annoyingly gorgeous attorney who won’t stop contacting me about his estate, even though I’ve demanded she leave me alone.

Harlow Alston would be extremely appealing if she wasn’t so aggravating. Only…that’s a complete lie. She pushes all the right buttons for me, and as much as I want her to quit pestering me about Brooks’s estate, I find myself intrigued by the fiery redhead who can’t take no for an answer. And the more I learn about Harlow, the more I find she might be the key to understanding who Brooks really was, and who I want to be.

I’ve got a second shot at a career I thought I’d lost and the opportunity to build something real with Harlow, but can I find strength to move forward or will my past dictate my future?

Download Stone (Pittsburgh Titans, Book #2):

Amazon | Nook | Apple | Kobo | Google | Print

Buy direct from Sawyer Bennett: https://bit.ly/Store_Stone

Get the audio (narrated by Jason Clarke and Ava Erickson)
Audible | Amazon | Apple

Stone is the second book in the Pittsburgh Titans series by Sawyer Bennett. You can read each book as standalone but I recommend reading the series in order. From past experience it’s the way to go!

Stone feels like an imposter. After losing his brother in the plane crash that took down Titans hockey team he is recruited to join them. He had his shot in the NFL years ago then a shoulder injury sent him down to the minors. He wasn’t sure if he could do this again. He wasn’t sure if they wanted him for his talent or because of his brother but he felt he needed to take the chance, right? What he didn’t expect was her. Harlow. A ballsy lawyer who won’t leave him alone about Brooks’s estate.

Harlow lost her best friend and now she has to deal with Stone. A stubborn man who won’t even return her phone calls and when he finally shows up to her office, her dog wants to attack him. She does too and not in a good way. Yet. She just wants him to sign where he needs to sign and to fulfill Brooks’s last wishes. It is definitely more complicated than she had hoped but if anything, Harlow is a badass and won’t let Brooks or even Stone down. And to make things even more complicated? She wants to climb Stone like a tree.

Stone and Harlow’s relationship is rocky but beautiful as well. Harlow knew Brooks like nobody else and Stone needs to heal the relationship they had even if he is gone. Their relationship was torn over the years and I am so happy we didn’t have to wait long for Stone’s story. I knew it was going to be an emotional one after reading Baden. I know see that this series is going to be a roller coaster of emotions and I am here for it.

Quotes:

“There is nothing normal about what I feel for you.”

“God, if I’m dreaming… nobody better fucking wake me up.”

Stone is the second book in the Pittsburgh Titans series by Sawyer Bennett. I’m still recovering from Baden, but I’m loving this series! It’s emotional, sexy and even a little fun. Stone lost his brother, Brooks, in the plane crash that killed most of the team. Now he has an opportunity to come up from the minors and take a starting position with the Titans. He’s angry, upset and misses his brother, but he says yes. Now he’s in his brother’s city, playing for his brother’s team and getting messages from his brother’s lawyer, Harlow. But she’s not just his lawyer, she was his friend. Stone realizes she’s gotten under his skin and she may be the key to learning more about his brother. The more time he spends with her, the more he likes her. The more he learns about his brother, the more he learns about himself. All of a sudden he’s playing the best hockey of his life, falling for the sexy redhead and trying to leave his past behind him. But is that even possible? Can Stone forget and move on? Oh man! This story! It was an emotional roller coaster and I loved every minute of it! Stone is heartbroken, but hopeful. Harlow can’t help but feel for her friend’s brother. Getting to know each other helped them both heal. They had great chemistry and we keep learning more from the rest of the team. Looking forward to more books in the series!

Audio: I had the pleasure of listening to Jason Clarke and Ava Erickson as Stone and Harlow. I love Jason and Ava together and they were really fantastic, as always.

About the Author:

New York Times, USA Today, and Wall Street Journal Bestselling author Sawyer Bennett uses real life experience to create relatable stories that appeal to a wide array of readers. From contemporary romance, fantasy romance, and both women’s and general fiction, Sawyer writes something for just about everyone.

A former trial lawyer from North Carolina, when she is not bringing fiction to life, Sawyer is a chauffeur, stylist, chef, maid, and personal assistant to her very adorable daughter, as well as full-time servant to her wonderfully naughty dogs.

If you’d like to receive a notification when Sawyer releases a new book, sign up for her newsletter (sawyerbennett.com/signup).

Connect with Sawyer:

✦ Facebook: http://bit.ly/Sawyer_FB
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New Release Blitz, Review, Excerpt & Giveaway – The Real Baxter, Lane Hayes

March 8, 2022 | Posted in New Release, Review | By Two Book Pushers

Title: The Real Baxter

Series: The Baxter Chronicles

Author: Lane Hayes

Publisher: Lane Hayes

Release Date: March 4, 2022

Heat Level: 4 – Lots of Sex

Pairing: Male/Male

Length: 99K

Genre: Romance, Bisexual, Bodyguard, Fake Boyfriend, Humor, Hurt and Comfort

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Synopsis

The silver-fox and the faux bodyguard…

Sebastian

Who’s the true hero behind the Hollywood heartthrob, crime-fighting, adventure-seeking international man of mystery? Me. I’m the real Baxter.

Well, I wear the suit and let the action play out onscreen. You want to know the secret of my success? Sell the story you want to tell. Even if you have to bend the truth a little.

Okay…a lot.

Trust me, no one will notice. Except Trent, who seems to notice everything. And for some reason, I like that. I like him. I’m just not sure what to do about it.

Trent

Look, I’m not exactly killing it. I’m a typical struggling actor-slash-waiter, hoping for a break. And boom…in walks Sebastian Rourke. He’s a cutthroat, wickedly charming silver fox, a Hollywood legend in the making. No joke. You’ve got to sell a piece of your soul to get in this man’s orbit. Or fake a British accent, then take a job playing bodyguard to fool the press. As one does.

I know I should take advantage of the very strange situation I find myself in, but I’m not sure I’m cut out for it. However, I’m willing to take a chance, ’cause I want the real Seb.

Even though it might cost me everything.

The Real Baxter is a MM age-gap, bisexual romance featuring the man who has everything and the actor who’s willing to show him what’s real.

Excerpt

“Home sweet home, eh?”

Seb gathered his suit coat and his takeout bag with a strained smile. “Something like that.”

“Hey, for what it’s worth, I didn’t mean to offend you earlier. Under different circumstances, I might go for a guy like you.”

His snort-laugh oozed sarcasm. “Wow, I’m flattered.”

I shrugged, aware that I should probably stop talking. Of course, I couldn’t do it. “You’re real. I get that. It’s just that…observationally speaking, real you and real me don’t mix. We got nothin’ in common.”

Seb unfastened his seat belt and whirled to face me. I couldn’t read him in the shadows. It would have been nice to know if he was amused or irked…or both. “Okay, first of all, ‘observationally speaking’ is a terrible way to begin any sentence and second—and most important, you know nothing about ‘real me.’ ”

I held my hands up in surrender. “You’re right. I had no idea you were the rich, old dude in the ‘Who’s your type?’ scenario.”

“I never said I was, but now that you think I am…you suddenly want to date me, eh?”

“Date you?” I scratched my temple as if mulling over the idea. “No way. But I’d totally do you.”

Seb froze with his hand on the door lever, threw his head back, and guffawed.

He literally had the best laugh I’d ever heard—contagious, hearty, and kind of wicked. It bounced merrily off the old car’s interior, making everything feel shiny and new. Including me. I couldn’t help smiling.

I tried to think of something clever and somewhat humorous to keep his attention for another minute or two, but I got sidetracked, staring at his stubbled jaw, full lips, and the deep crinkles at the corners of his eyes. For a half a beat, I wished he were someone else—less in demand, less wealthy, less connected.

Crazy, I know. This was why I didn’t go for sophisticated types. I didn’t stand a chance with a guy like Seb.

And on that dose of reality…I inclined my head with a meaningful grunt as he composed himself.

“You have no idea how tempting that sounds. Thanks for the ride. Thanks for tonight. It was…exactly what I needed.”

“Happy to be of service.”

He pulled at the handle—once, twice… “The door is stuck.”

“It does that sometimes. You just have to wiggle the handle.”

Seb tried again. “No, it’s definitely stuck.”

I unfastened my seat belt and leaned across him. Bad move. I breathed in the scent of his cologne and felt scorched by his body heat.

And of course, the door didn’t budge. I turned off the engine and held a finger up, signaling a bright idea on the horizon.

“Hang on. We’ll do this the old-fashioned way.” I hopped out of the car and used my key to manually unlock the passenger side door with a flourish. “Ta-da!”

He unfolded his long legs, somehow managing to look like an A-list celebrity sliding from the back seat of a limo at a red-carpet event. He slung his suit coat over the crook of his arm, grabbed his to-go bag, and stepped aside.

“Thank you.”

“I’m the one who should be thanking you. So, thanks for taking me to pick up my wheels, thanks for drinks and the burger, and thanks for not laughing at my impromptu Baxter audition.”

Seb grinned. “You’re welcome. It was…fun.”

I nodded, shoving my hands into my pockets awkwardly before angling my head toward the house. “You really rattle around in that place by yourself?”

“Yeah. My kids are here a lot. I have Oliver tomorrow and…” He squinted as if looking for something or someone in the dark. “I have friends.”

“You do?” I teased.

He made a funny face. “One or two. I think.”

We smiled as if sharing a joke. But the punchline was a silent acknowledgment of temporary camaraderie. We weren’t friends or coworkers. He probably wouldn’t remember my name next week.

However, right this very moment, we had a connection. Maybe it was akin to making friends with your seatmate on a long flight, but it was something.

I held on to it fiercely, marking the ticking seconds to the soundtrack of chirping crickets and the rustle of leaves in the late summer evening breeze. I studied the sharp planes of his cheekbones, softened by the laugh lines at the corners of his eyes. I noted the hint of gray in his close-shaven beard when he licked his bottom lip and—

Oh, fuck.

Yeah, time to go.

“I should, uh…” I hiked my thumb behind me, then rested my hand on the open door. I was about to close it when I spotted his milkshake. “Do you want your shake?”

“Um…” Seb switched the to-go bag to his left hand and stepped toward me. “I think it’s gone.”

I pulled it from the cupholder and turned to find him closer than expected. As in…we stood grungy boot to Italian loafer.

I shook the cup. “Might be a little something in there.”

“No, I’m done. I can throw it away in the house. I don’t want to leave trash in your car.”

I scoffed. “Dude, have you seen my car?”

Seb chuckled…and I joined in.

When his laughter faded, we were back to staring at each other. Only now, it wasn’t awkward. It was…something completely different. A little unsteady and unsure, but somehow promising.

I didn’t move. I didn’t sidle past him with an absent good-bye or a bro high five. I didn’t try to draw him into more conversation. I didn’t want to break the spell…as if I had any power over what was happening.

And something was definitely happening. Maybe because it was so unexpected, it took me a few extra seconds to define it.

Lust. Hunger. Need.

He wanted me.

Purchase at Amazon

The Real Baxter is the first book in The Baxter Chronicles by Lane Hayes. It’s a sexy age-gap, fake romance story and I loved it! I’ve loved Sebastian since I met him in Starting From Zero. There was something about him that screamed, sexy, successful man with an emotional past. He didn’t get where he is by being nice and soft. But as soon as he meets Trent, who fakes a not so great English accent to get him to notice him, he knows his life is going to change. He’s not sure what’s going to happen, but he knows he wants Trent. Again and again. Trent’s an actor still trying to get his big break. He’s not going to lose the chance to meet The Sebastian Rourke. It may not go as planned, but he gets an offer he can’t refuse. Fake bodyguard. How hard can it be. Turns out the hard part is staying away from the older, sexy silver fox. Fake bodyguard turns into fake boyfriend and then it’s all real. But can it work between the hopeful actor from Philly and the Hollywood studio owner? I loved Trent and Seb! Trent is so funny, sexy and real with his accent and his parents (Italian mom for the win!). He’s insightful, intelligent and just wants to do something meaningful. Seb is running his studio, being a dad and doesn’t know what to do with his growing feelings for Trent. I thought they were perfect for each other. Opposites who had more in common than they thought. I love all the secondary characters and seeing Charlie, Gray, Justin and the rest of the crew again! Looking forward to more in the series.

Meet the Author

Lane Hayes loves a good romance! An avid reader from an early age, she has always been drawn to well-told love story with beautifully written characters. Her debut novel was a 2013 Rainbow Award finalist and subsequent books have received Honorable Mentions and/or were winners in the 2016, 2017, 2018-2019, 2020-2021 Rainbow Awards. She loves red wine, chocolate and travel (in no particular order). Lane lives in Southern California with her amazing husband in a not quite empty nest.

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New Release – Sink or Swim, Annabeth Albert

March 2, 2022 | Posted in New Release, Review | By Two Book Pushers

Winning and losing are subject to sexy interpretation…

Navy chief Calder Euler loves to win big. His latest score? A remote mountain cabin. Checking it out is supposed to be a quick trip, but Calder’s luck abruptly turns when a freak injury and a freakier snowstorm leave him stranded.

Oh, and the cabin isn’t empty. A silver fox caring for two young girls claims that the property is his, but Calder’s paperwork says otherwise.

Felix Sigurd is on a losing streak, and his ex-husband risking the cabin in a reckless bet is only the latest in a series of misfortunes. He’ll tolerate the handsome stranger for a couple nights–even care for his injuries—but that’s it.

Calder doesn’t know a damn thing about kids, but making pancakes for Felix’s girls is a surprising delight. Trapped in the cabin, the four of them slip easily into the rhythms of a family. But when the ice melts, they’ll have to decide if a future together is in the cards.

Sink or Swim is the second book in the Shore Leave series by Annabeth Albert. I am really enjoying this series and I was thrilled when I found out Calder was next! Calder and Felix meet in the funniest way. A cabin in the woods where Calder plans to spend time and Felix and his nieces decide to visit for the weekend. Strangers stranded in a snow storm. Calder and Felix don’t get off on the right foot, but as the weekend goes on, they actually start to have fun. Then when it’s over they realize they want to see each other again. Calder is on shore on base and wants to get back on a sub. Felix has to work and take care of the girls. But they seem to find the time. The more Calder talks to Felix, the more his thoughts about his future change. He wants what his brother and best friend have. Can he convince Felix to take a chance on him? I loved these two! They are sexy and sweet and I love the way Calder is with the girls. Swoon! Hoping there’s more in the series!

New Release & Reviews – The Best Men, Lauren Blakely and Sarina Bowen

January 21, 2022 | Posted in New Release, Review | By Two Book Pushers

In my defense, I was left alone with a bottle of single-malt and a life-long penchant for protecting my baby sister. Still, that’s no excuse to send ten drunk-texts on why her hasty marriage would be a mistake.

If only I had just texted my sister. But nope. I accidentally sent the message to her, her groom, and his super hot wingman.

I also used the phrase “super hot wingman,” so I’d like to die now.

Instead, I have to plan a wedding with the aforementioned hottie and share a too-small guesthouse in steamy Miami.

Three days in the sun with the cocky, charming former athlete who likes to push my buttons? Fine, two can play at that let’s-infuriate-each-other game.

Until Asher ups the stakes with one wildly sexy suggestion. A no-strings fling, then I go back to my single dad life in New York, and he returns to his star-studded one.

Sign me up.

But the more nights I spend with the other best man, the more I want days too, and that just can’t happen. Especially when I find out the real reason why…

Contents Include: First times, a secret to-do list, champion-level flirting, fast cars, #eggplants, and two men who look good in formal wear.

Amazon: https://geni.us/BestMenAmazon

Apple: https://geni.us/BestMenApple

Nook: https://geni.us/BestMenNook

Kobo: https://geni.us/BestMenKobo

Google: https://geni.us/BestMenGoogle

Audio: https://geni.us/BestMenAudible

The Best Men is a new sexy, fun, enemies to lovers romance by the fabulous duo of Lauren Blakely and Sarina Bowen! What happens when two of your favorite authors write a book together? Magic, that’s what! I’m actually having a hard time coming up with the words to describe how much I adored Asher and Mark. If you read Lauren’s books you have met Asher St. James. Ex soccer star turned famous photographer. He’s sexy, living life to it’s fullest and he loves his life. Mark is a single dad who works on Wall Street and doesn’t have time to date. He’s bisexual, but hasn’t really explored that side of himself. When he meets Asher, he is instantly attracted to him so of course he reacts the only way he knows. Doesn’t talk to him. Doesn’t look at him. Asher thinks Mark hates him, but he catches him looking when he thinks no one is watching. And then a drunk text from Mark calling him super hot is all Asher needs to hear. When they are asked to be the best men in Mark’s sister’s wedding to Asher’s best friend, they have to spend a few days together. Alone. Mark doesn’t think he’s strong enough to be that close to Asher and not want to touch him. Mark wants to relax and let loose a little and Asher is just the man to help him out. It’s only for a few days and then he goes back to NY and back to his life. But life doesn’t always work out the way you think it will. Neither of them expected to actually have feelings for each other. That isn’t part of the deal. Can Mark go back to his normal boring life without Asher? Will Asher be able to walk away from the only man he’d consider settling down for? I can’t even express how much I love Asher and Mark! Their flirty banter is perfect, just enough snark and sexiness. Mark and his color coded spreadsheets and Asher and his floofy hair. The Wall Streeter and the Posh F. All the sexiness, the touches, the looks, the words. I was laughing out loud one minute, fanning myself the next and then crying my eyes out. That’s what a romance novel is! Every single emotion brought to the surface so you feel everything the characters are feeling. That’s top notch writing. Fabulous characters. And love for the story. Thank you Lauren and Sarina for giving me something I didn’t know I even needed!! Hoping they will give us more co-written books in the future!

The Best Men is Lauren Blakely and Sarina Bowen’s first novel as a collab. If you haven’t read the prequel, Super Hot Wingman, go now!

Mark and Asher are complete opposites. Mark is a polo-wearing single dad banker who plays chess and believes math is hot. Asher is an ex-soccer star who is now a globe-trotting photographer who doesn’t do relationships. They really are complete opposites. Asher can’t read the man who for some reason makes him a little hot and bothered. Mark isn’t blind he knows Asher is hot but he is also cocky and smug. Every time they speak it’s banter-filled and can’t even tell if the other cares for the other. After months of the run-around they will soon find out…

Three days alone in Miami. In a two-bedroom guest house with a pool and mansion in the background. Three days of prepping for Mark’s sister and Asher’s best friend’s wedding. It was not something Mark was looking forward to. At all. Especially after the drunk texts. Asher wants Mark to drop his poker face so he could get to know the hot nerd. The one who thinks spreadsheet are hot, hot, hot. He loves to make them and check off item by item and Asher is here for it.

The nights are lust-filled. The days are full of sexual tension. Their love language is epic. I am soooo in love with this couple. They made me laugh so hard. They got me completely hot and bothered. They also made me cry!! And laugh some more, I snorted. I did. It’s so much more than their heat and humor though. It’s about exploring and figure out what you really want in life. Happiness. Love. Laughter. Polos. Spreadsheets. I hope Lauren and Sarina write together again! It was the perfect blend of both of them wishing the pages.

Quotes:

“You noticed my hair. So sweet.” I say, giving a shake of the locks.

“It’s impossible not to. It enters the room before you do.”

“Stop,” he says without turning his head.

“Stop wait?”

“Stop sneaking glances at me. Keep your eyes on the road, St. James. You can admire me later.”

It’s a greedy kiss. Hot and messy, and I love every single second of the sloppiness.

About Lauren Blakely:

A #1 New York Times Bestselling, #1 Wall Street Journal Bestselling, and #1 Audible

Bestselling author, Lauren Blakely is known for her contemporary romance style that’s

sexy, sweet, and witty. She also writes USA Today bestselling LGBTQ romance.

With fourteen New York Times bestsellers, her titles have appeared on the New York

Times, USA Today, and Wall Street Journal Bestseller Lists more than 100 times, with

more than 55 titles on the USA Today Bestsellers list alone. She’s sold more than 4.5 million books. A Brown University graduate, Lauren likes dogs, cake and show tunes and is the vegetarian at your dinner party.

Connect w/Lauren:

Website: laurenblakely.com

NL Signup: http://laurenblakely.com/newsletter

Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/LaurenBlakelyBooks

Instagram: http://instagram.com/laurenblakelybooks

Twitter: http://twitter.com/LaurenBlakely3

Sarina Bowen is a twenty-time USA bestselling author of contemporary romance novels. Formerly a derivatives trader on Wall Street, Sarina holds a BA in economics from Yale University.

A New Englander whose Vermont ancestors cut timber and farmed the north country in the 1760s, Sarina is grateful for the invention of indoor plumbing and wi-fi during the intervening 250 years. She lives with her family on a few wooded acres in New Hampshire.

Sarina’s books are published in over a dozen languages with fifteen international publishers.

New Release & Reviews – Resolution, Adriana Locke

December 13, 2021 | Posted in New Release, Review | By Two Book Pushers

From USA Today Bestselling author Adriana Locke comes a workplace romance between a grumpy, alpha architect and his new client—who just so happens to have the blueprint to bring him to his knees.

Romance is not in Wade Mason’s portfolio.
This is tragic. It’s unfair that a man so maddeningly gorgeous—an architect with a deliciously squarish jaw, adorably dimpled chin, and the hottest black glasses that straddle the line between professional and provocative—rebukes all things love.
I knew this well before I walked into his office.
The man is a conundrum—a complicated, steel-wall of a puzzle. On one hand, he brushes against me in the conference room with a broodiness that sets me on fire. He demands in-person meetings nearly every day about the house we’re working on together. I catch him watching me out of the corner of his eye with a look that’s anything but platonic. But any talk of hook-ups, love, or relationships—even in general? Completely off the table.
I’m determined to peel back his layers until I get to the bottom of the mysterious businessman. But my plan is foiled by a surprise that leaves both of us reeling. Neither of us see it coming but it changes everything … forever.

Amazon: https://geni.us/UJOl

Resolution is the fifth book in the Mason Family series by Adriana Locke. I’ve been waiting for Wade (my favorite Mason) and he was everything I wanted him to be and more. I knew it was going to take a strong, sassy woman to bring him to his knees. We’ve gotten to know a little about Wade over the series and there was just something about him that called to me. The brooding, sexy, suit wearing, bespectacled architect, pulled at something inside me. He’s a total jerk. He actively tries to get out of seeing his family and he’s honest to a fault. But the people who know him best are never swayed by his harshness. They know he loves them. They know he’ll always be there for them, but he won’t do so without a little attitude. When he meets Dara, a new client, somehow he knows his life will never be the same. He puts up his strongest walls, makes the most nonchalant face he can muster, but Dara is not deterred. She even hugs him (gasp!) Turns out they knew each other in college and she might have had a little crush. Dara doesn’t buy into Wade’s “I hate everyone” schtick. She’s going to sass him right into a heartfelt smile if it kills her. But whoa! She wasn’t expecting that smile. She’s totally done for. They both tried to pretend they were only friends, but once Wade decides he has to have her, all bets are off. One taste and nothing will ever be the same. Dara even fits with his crazy family. The only one who doesn’t instantly love her is Rosie, because Wade is hers. Wade and Dara are a perfect fit. She softens his edges. Gives him a reason to breathe and allows him to be himself. She calls him on his crap but also shares her heart with him. It’s a beautiful love story full of lust, banter, family, friends, loss and pain. And I loved every minute of it. Wade is one of my all-time favorite characters of Adriana’s and he lived up to everything I imagined he would be. Dara is the perfect heroine. She’s strong, smart, talented, sassy and stands up for herself. Together they made me laugh, cry and swoon!

Resolution is the fifth book in the Mason Family series by Adriana Locke. You can read each book as standalone but I HIGHLY recommend reading the series since I fell for all of them! Lol. They all have different personalities and family is everything to them. I have been waiting for Wade to get knocked on his ass with love and it was so worth the wait.

Wade doesn’t do relationships, one-night stands or even flings. He is all about work and seeing his family when he has to. And when gets stuck with a new client who could help the business, he isn’t happy. Building a dream home for a rich man’s granddaughter who is probably a diva isn’t in his plans. He is not here for it. Period. And when he meets her… He knows he is f*cked. She is bubbly, sassy, beautiful and familiar. She has a wicked tongue and he one-hundred percent doesn’t want to work with her. Until she throws out the bait…

Dara thought he was an ass before and now she knows he is one but damn…he is her catnip. His dry humor gets her going and when she catches his smirk, she is done. He hides behind his suits, confidence, and sinfully sexy glasses but she knows there is more to him. He is a vault she wants to break open. She doesn’t want to push him but he definitely needs a nudge. Nothing wrong with a little flirting, right? She has to know what makes him tick… And when she does, its explosive!

I absolutely adored this story! I was invested from beginning to end. Dara is hilarious, badass, and sweet, and I just want to be her friend. Wade may seem so stiff but no. His quick wit is so much fun. He definitely has layers to him and I love him so much. Together, these two have the best banter. They so met their match in each other. I loved catching up with the family.

Overall… I laughed. I swooned. I cried. I got hot and bothered. And I was shook! It’s one of, if not my favorite in the series. I can’t wait for what Adriana has planned for her next books!

Quotes:

“He had on these black pants that hugged his ass.” I shiver. “A crisp white button-down shirt with the cuffs rolled up to his elbows.”

“That’s it. Now I’m screwed too.” Rusti shakes her head, her blue eyes shining with humor. “If you tell me that he had a tattoo peeking out of that shirt, I’ll fight you for him.”

“Your gramps was so sweet. Your mom is so kind. Larissa was a doll. The only person who hasn’t been nice to me is Rosie because she thinks I’m trying to steal her man.”

“Wade Mason,” I say, my cheeks flushing. I smack him gently on the chest. “Are you being sweet?”

“I know. I apologize.”

New Release & Review – The Geek Who Saved Christmas

November 15, 2021 | Posted in New Release, Review | By Two Book Pushers

His grumpy neighbor needs some holiday sunshine…

Gideon Holiday is the perfect neighbor. Need a cup of sugar? Spare folding chair? Extra batteries? He’s always ready to help. And he’s waited years for his hot, grumpy, silver fox neighbor, Paul, to need him. For anything. But this December, Gideon would be happy if he could just get the Scrooge-like Paul on board with the neighborhood holiday lights fundraiser.

Paul Frost has no intention of decking his halls or blazing any Yule logs. Even if his spunky bowtie-clad neighbor does look perfect for unwrapping, Paul would prefer to hide away until December is done. But when his beloved younger brother announces an unexpected visit, Paul needs all the trimmings for a festive homecoming—and fast.

Luckily, Gideon is there with a color-coded plan to save Christmas. Soon Paul’s hanging lights, trimming trees, and rolling out cookies. And steaming up his new flannel sheets with Gideon. How did that happen?

It’ll take some winter magic to preserve their happiness and keep these rival neighbors together longer than one holiday season.

The Geek Who Saved Christmas is a low-angst m/m holiday romance with a guaranteed happy ending. This grumpy/sunshine, neighbors-to-lovers, found family tale features two heroes in their forties figuring out that maybe their sexily-ever-after was right next door the whole time. It stands alone and is not connected to any of the author’s other universes. However, it does contain a heaping helping of the same emotions and steamy moments readers have come to expect!

The Geek Who Saved Christmas is Annabeth Albert’s newest fun, sexy, neighbors-to-lovers story! She had me at Christmas and the cover sold it! I just love a good Christmas story and this had everything I love. Two sexy neighbors who are in their forties, Christmas cheer, an adorable dog and a great story about love, family and friendship. Paul Frost doesn’t really love the holidays but he lives in a neighborhood where everyone else does. Especially his geeky neighbor with the colorful bow ties. Gideon Holiday lives for Christmas. He decorates his house early, is on the community board and helps anyone who asks for it. It’s just his nature. So when Paul needs help Gideon doesn’t say no. He’s actually excited to spend time with his sexy neighbor and get to know him a little better. Paul thought Gideon was stuffy and pushy, but he quickly learns he’s nothing like that. He’s open, fun, loves to make lists and spreadsheets, and smart. His ties just make him more adorable. After one steamy kiss, they fall into an easy relationship. Decorate, help Paul get ready for his brother to come home for the holidays and spend their nights together. In bed. But what happens when the decorating is done? Will they be over too? Oh man! I just loved Paul and Gideon. Paul is grumpy and Gideon is freaking adorable! They are perfect for each other. It’s a sexy, fun, holiday romance with little angst and the perfect amount of emotions. I laughed and teared up and just loved these two!

Amazon: www.amazon.com/dp/B09L4YY1JT

New Release & Review – Shakedown, Lani Lynn Vale

November 11, 2021 | Posted in New Release, Review | By Two Book Pushers

Shakedown

Souls Chapel Revenants MC Book 8

Lani Lynn Vale

Release Date: November 9, 2021

About the Book

Wanted: someone to hand feed me Doritos so my hands don’t get orange. No weirdos.

Belle Pena was an editor. Not a writer.

When her brothers challenge her to create a dating profile, she makes up the most random biography she can think of. She never, not ever, thought she’d find anybody to respond. But she was sorely mistaken.

Sadly, she finds that she has way more interest than she ever could’ve imagined.

But only one profile catches her eye.

Bruno never meant to take the dating app seriously. Being the last single man in his band of misfits, he’s happy being the odd man out. Women spelled trouble, and he had enough trouble in his life to last him through the next decade.

Only his newfound family doesn’t feel the same. One innocent ‘sure’ has the women of the Souls Chapel Revenants MC creating him a dating profile that is too spot on to be comfortable. And just when he decides to delete the app entirely, a particular face catches his eye.

One innocent question of ‘Belle is that you? Do you remember punching me in the throat in high school?’ has him stepping into trouble neck deep, and he doesn’t even realize it until it’s too late.

Purchase Links

✦ Amazon: https://amzn.to/3xIG49D

✦ Apple: https://apple.co/3Cm2q36

✦ Nook: https://bit.ly/3hIWGZo

✦ Kobo: https://bit.ly/3hIhmAy

✦ Audio: COMING SOON

Add to your TBR: https://bit.ly/2URnGN1

Kara's Review

Shakedown is the eighth book in the Souls Chapel Revenants MC series by Lani Lynn Vale. This series is so good and I’m very sad it’s over, but I loved every minute of it. She saved Bruno for last. The sexy, brooding, scary dude who we don’t really know much about. He had a hard childhood and has been living with a lot of demons from his past. He doesn’t want to date or be happy, but Six knows he needs a good woman in his life. An online profile brings him Belle Pena(we know her brothers and family!) She turns him down, but when they randomly meet in person they feel an instant chemistry. Belle has to have things a certain way. She doesn’t like to be touched, needs soft fabrics, her IQ is extremely high, and she has never been able to find anyone who gets her. Until Bruno. He just seems to sense what she needs before she tells him. But she’s happy to tell him exactly what she needs. When he’s almost killed, she steps in, claims him as her own and they need to hide out together and find out what happened to him. Bruno wakes up from his accident and can’t remember anything but he knows Belle is his. She talks a lot, he mostly grunts and uses one word responses and neither of them is bothered by the other’s quirks. They just get each other. Shakedown is one of my favorites of the series! Their chemistry was off the charts! I laughed, got hot and bothered and just really loved them. I loved how we got to see all Bruno’s friends and Belle’s family and Lani wraps up the series for us. I’m sad it’s over, but I know Lani has something up next that I’m going to love too!

About Lani Lynn Vale

Lani Lynn Vale is a Wall Street Journal & USA Today Bestselling Author of over thirty titles. She is married with three children, two dogs, two cats, a donkey, and a couple (a couple also meaning over twenty) chickens.

When she’s not writing, you can find her curled up in her favorite chair reading.

Lani is married with three children and lives in the Great State of Texas.

Website: http://www.lanilynnvale.com/

Facebook: https://bit.ly/LLV-fb

Instagram: https://bit.ly/LLV-IG

Twitter: https://bit.ly/LLV-twitter

Goodreads: http://bit.ly/LLVgoodreads

BookBub: http://bit.ly/LLVbb

New Release & Review – No Rep, Lani Lynn Vale

July 29, 2021 | Posted in New Release, Review | By Two Book Pushers

No Rep

Madd Crossfit Series 1

July 27, 2021

About the Book

Taos was tired.

Tired of everything that came with living. Not to the point where he was suicidal or anything, but tired enough that he just didn’t give a crap anymore.

He’d seen all the ugliness this world had to offer due to his job as a police officer for way too many damn years of his less than stellar life. After finding a way to sustain his spending habits that didn’t include having criminals point guns at his face, he quits without a backward glance.

Only, he just can’t step away from old habits.

Old habits that have to do with a beautiful young woman that makes his heart feel like it isn’t nearly as broken as it is.

Fran has experienced more than her fair share of crap. After an attack that nearly took her life, she stays hidden in her house, fearful that stepping out of her comfort zone will be the final nail in her coffin.

Then her sister forces her to face her fears, and she joins Madd CrossFit.

There, she meets the man that saved her life a year ago, and realizes rather quickly that he doesn’t even realize who he is to her.

He’s everything she ever thought a man should be and wants nothing to do with her.

Maybe she’ll have to give him a reason to look her way.

And damned if she doesn’t find a way to do it.

She didn’t plan on nearly getting killed for that to happen, though.

At least not again.

Purchase Links

✦ Amazon: https://amzn.to/3gwVjw7

✦ Apple: https://apple.co/2Sx9hoN

✦ Nook: https://bit.ly/3eeZye7

✦ Kobo: https://bit.ly/3iN2m5f

Add to your TBR: https://bit.ly/3gDxemj