Best Things I Read This Week
2022 has gotten off to a very good start (reading wise). I’m not sure if it’s just been a “good” week of choices but I’ve read a few successive 4-5 star books and I’m here to share a little about each of them. We have something for everyone (I hope), and as always slide into my DMs if you’re looking for recommendations, reviews or to share your thoughts if you’ve read any of the books below!
A Deal With The Devil by Elizabeth O’Roark (Free on KU)
This was a recommendation from the Reddit romance books pals and I’m very glad I added this to my kindle unlimited shelves. This was also a new to me author and folks lemme tell you this was a goodie.
Here we have a slow burn, not quite enemies to lovers, workplace romance, rich hot misunderstood guy, with hot mouthy sunshine-y type. Everything about this worked for me. Single POV, was a refreshing change of pace and would work for fans of Mariana Zapata. It gave me some light Wall of Winnipeg vibes with Hayes being kinda shut off and unsure on how to “live” outside his singular focus, and Tali being his assistant / antagonistic “care taker”.
Lots of legitimately funny moments, coupled with swoon-worthy romance and very steamy sex scenes made this really work for me. Looking forward to digging further into EO’s backlist.
Fierce at Heart by Zoe York
This delicious SOFT af romance (with no 3rd act breakup) was SO goddamn sweet. Again, I had never read a Zoe York book and friends let me tell you this was so freaking cute I couldn’t even stand it. Perfect for romance readers looking for legit, marriage of convenience, friends to lovers, with ALL the domesticity.
Adam and Isla are not only soul mates, but true partners. After serving under Isla in Afghanistan, the two reconnect in their “second” careers / lives. Seeing the support the two have of each other and fierce protectiveness both display was really special. Reading and watching these two slowly fall in love with one another was just so special, you’ll be smiling and dreamily sighing throughout.
The Highlander by Kerrigan Byrne
I have been on a wild historical romance kick since the beginning of 22’ (having read 5 already). This is a continuation of KB’s Victorian Rebels series and follows Philomena and The Demon Highlander (and Dorian’s brother) Liam.
In classic Kerrigan fashion these books are teeming with all the trauma and past darkness. I think maybe that’s what makes us as readers fall deeply into the story and root for her tortured hero’s and heroines. This one is really no different, and opens on some really traumatic abuses for Philomena. Watching her rise from her horrific treatment, to finding her sanctuary with Liam in Scotland and the love she has for his children, clans people and lands is really moving. And scary Liam is just so besotted, that watching him be gentle, caring and protective really tugs at the old heartstrings.
Not for the faint of heart, check content warnings including SA, rape, 18th century asylum treatment.
The Duke by Kerrigan Byrne
Like I mentioned that whole HR kick really got me through the week. This book, MY goodness. Here we have tragic beginnings, sick bed care, pining, hidden identities, it’s always been you, and the hero being an absolute ARSE to the heroine all before her great revelation brings him right to his friggen haughty knees.
The deliciousness of watching the hero be an unmitigated turd, knowing that the woman he’s being a dick to, is the one he’s been searching for and pining after really did something to me. All because he didn’t recognize her. Not to mention Imogen has done EVERYTHING to save him, literally and figuratively. Fans of this series will enjoy the cameo’s from earlier book couples.
Again, with KB books check those content warnings and read with caution.