He’s cocky. Arrogant. Infuriating. The bane of my existence. But his touch makes me burn with need. Every time we come together it’s like a collision of fire and ice—intense, all-consuming, and utterly unstoppable. We’re all wrong for each other… yet so very right.
Tread the fine line between love and hate with 25 steamy new stories that will have you falling for the enemy!
*100% of proceeds benefit the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention.
Morgan James is a USA Today bestselling author of more than twenty romantic suspense novels. She spent most of her childhood with her nose buried in a book and cut her teeth on the likes of R.L. Stein and Christopher Pike. When not writing, she can be found at her home in Ohio with her husband and two kids.
When Piper finds her boyfriend cheating on her, she makes a plan to fake date with her academic rival Vale who is also a hochey rival to her ex, Jaxon.
I love Brit's writing style and this short story was no exception. In just a few pages she managed to give me a full circle fake dating / rivals to lovers story and I ate it up. Loved how they were academic rivals, since this isn't something I usually read , add the sports element and my favorite trope it was a successful recipe for me. Add the tension, the banter and the angst and you got me there! I definitely need to read this as a full story, since I loved the little snippets about how they originally met, but I truly loved it!
100% of proceeds from this anthology will benefit the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention. To learn more about how you can help, please visit: https://afsp.org/
(I received an ARC for this book)
Trigger Warnings include: attempted sexual assault, mentions of sexual assault involving children, death of a family member, death of a loved one, overdose, threats of suicide for attention, death of a child on page (murder), police involved shootout, bomb threat
Below are the reviews for the novellas I read.
His Favorite Mistake by Taryn Quinn ⭐️⭐️⭐️ Little slow going at first. But once I got into it, I really enjoyed them. I wish we had more proper time with these characters to properly understand them. Especially Jed. He felt too much like a background character. I’m not sure how this is considered ‘enemies’ since there wasn’t even any dislike between them.
My Favorite Quotes: • “Active mouths don’t bother me…as long as they’re used for the right things.” • “Eyes on me.” • “Flattery will get you nowhere but crammed full of my c!ck.” • “Oh, sweetness, the one thing I’m not is admirable.” • “It’s worth it if I get a kiss that tastes like both of us.” • “Baby, I can’t remember ever wanting anything or anyone more.” 7/10 Dirty Birdy 2/10 Enemies to Lovers 4/10 Meet Cute +BDSM & D/s
Prove It by Rebel Shaw ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ I loved their banter from page one. Cooper loved seeing the fire in Katie’s eyes, so he very happily did what he could to keep it in his direction. I was excited to see what was going to happen between them the more he egged her on. I was also a big fan of his need to prove how much she actually meant to him even after finding out that she thought he hated her.
My Favorite Quotes: • “Now I have to convince the girl that she’s mine.” • “I was put on this earth to make you come.” • “Watch me. Watch me eat this beautiful p!ssy of yours.” • “We both win, baby. We come together.” • “That means you are everything I’ve ever wanted, and I’m a smart man. Now that I’ve got you, no f!cking way am I going to let you go.” • “There is nothing I would want more than to be on the receiving end of your love.” • “You don’t need clothes when you have me to wrap around you.” 6/10 Dirty Birdy 4/10 Enemies to Lovers 4/10 Brother’s BFF 3/10 Forced Proximity
Sleeping with the Enemy by Ellie Isaacson ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Trigger Warnings include: mentions of sexual assault involving children, death of a family member, overdose, threats of suicide for attention, death of a child on page (murder), police involved shootout
Van has disliked Drea since they were kids. Her introduction into his life literally destroyed his dynamic with his family, and he’s blamed her every day since. At least he’s been able to avoid her. Except, now he’s got no choice but to spend time with her. Drea finally realizes the issues at hand, and was surprised by it? I didn’t enjoy that. But I was too focused on what else was going on to really care about that! Things unfold SO quickly! They both accept the reality of their situation and go their separate ways. That and their reconnection felt so genuine!
My Favorite Quotes: • “Spread your legs, princess. And hold on for your life.” • “Haven’t eaten since lunch yesterday, and I’m about to make you my next meal.” 7/10 Dirty Birdy 6/10 Enemies to Lovers 5/10 Forced Proximity
Treason by A.K. Rose ⭐️⭐️⭐️ Trigger Warnings include: bomb threat
Greer is under orders, and under him. I’d say for the first half, I had Marlin from Finding Nemo in my head saying “I feel like they’re trying to tell me something, I just know it”. I was SO confused. I felt like we should have gotten more information. After finishing, I learned that it was definitely a piece of something bigger. I’m just not sure what since that information wasn’t included. But I do have to admit, I pushed through for two reasons. One: Greer is a badass and I couldn’t get enough of her. Two: I wanted Booker to get his promised twenty minutes!
6/10 Dirty Birdy 4/10 Enemies to Lovers 6/10 Mafia Romance
Can’t Happen Again by Georgia Coffman ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ I instantly enjoyed their flirting. It was cute, with just a hint of awkward because of nerves. Theo and Raegan are book cover models and meet on a shoot. Go in, do the job, go home. After enjoying a little date together afterwards, it’s discovered that Theo is the “jerk” who abandoned her roommate/bff. Theo not getting to explain himself becomes a theme. I wouldn’t say it was annoying, but it did take away from the story because of how much I was annoyed by it. (I should specify that I was always on Theo’s side, even without knowing his side of things.)
My Favorite Quotes: • “I’d never be on the sidelines. Not when it comes to you.” 7/10 Dirty Birdy 6/10 Enemies to Lovers 5/10 Forced Proximity 5/10 Workplace
Drive Me Crazy by Shaw Hart & Cameron Hart ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Jenson was my favorite kind of grumpy gills. A man of few words, that just wanted to protect Fawn. She didn’t understand that though, which creates the enemies element. Being neighbors made it worse. But being “stuck” together doing a favor for their landlord takes them out of their daily routine. Suddenly, things between them aren’t so bad. I laughed until I cried reading this one. On multiple occasions. The sudden instalove came outta left field. Especially since Fawn assumed he left her, when all he had done was go into his own apartment for five minutes while she was sleeping. And that’s my only complaint!
My Favorite Quotes: • “Never thought I was a possessive man until this moment.” • “Can I prove it to you? Prove that we’re perfect together?” • “Let go of every-f!cking-thing and come for me.” • “Let me help you out, baby. You’re carrying enough for me.” 8/10 Dirty Birdy 6/10 Enemies to Lovers 5/10 Forced Proximity +grumpy/sunshine
The Mile High Meet-Cute by S.E. Rose ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Trigger Warnings include: deaths of a loved one, family member
Not sure how this is considered enemies, there wasn’t even dislike involved! Paris hates flying, and she gets stuck next to a grumpy companion. River was a butthole from the moment he comes into frame! It doesn’t take long for them to find comfortable footing, and then things speed up real fast! And it is SO enjoyable! They discover that they’ve already crossed paths once before. And then after their flight, they cross paths again! It ends a little open ended, but I got what I needed out of it.
6/10 Dirty Birdy 0/10 Enemies to Lovers 3/10 Age Gap 5/10 Forced Proximity + grumpy/sunshine
Better Luck Next Time by Brit Benson ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
After catching her boyfriend cheating, Piper does something she never thought she would. She teams up with her academic enemy to make him jealous. Vale benefits from it too, since he’s not a fan of her ex either. Vale and Piper’s rivalry felt juvenile, and I didn’t particularly enjoy it. I giggled every time Piper tried to convince herself that she hated Vale, because it was obvious that in reality, she didn’t. And he definitely never hated her! It was kinda cute that they’ve always been connected. This is going to be a full length with a dual POV and I NEED it!
My Favorite Quotes: • “I want you half naked. I want to f!ck you while you’re wearing my number.” • “You’re f!cking me, now. Only me. Got it?” • “Show me what you can do.” • “Tonight, I want you real.” • “That feel fake to you?” 7/10 Dirty Birdy 6/10 Enemies to Lovers 8/10 Fake Dating 6/10 Sports/Hockey Romance + College Romance
Enemy Kisses by Debra St. James ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Trigger Warnings include: death, attempted sexual assault
Harriet starts every day cleaning up after Finn’s pub patrons. Which puts a damper on her cheery bakery. Unfortunately for her, he likes when she’s mad at him. Enjoys when she’s angry and fired up. Especially since she’s only that way with him. At no point did this feel like a novella! Everything felt complete and tied up with a bow! It had heart in all the right places, and PLENTY of heat! This is my favorite of the anthology
My Favorite Quotes: • “You’re f!cking stunning when you’re angry. Anyone ever tell you that?” • “Keep that sh!t up, Firecracker. It makes me hard.” • “Whatever comes out of your mouth next better not be an apology.” • “Tell me what I want to hear.” • “I need your words.” • “Take what you need to give me what I want.” • “I’m trying to be a gentleman here. But you make it damn hard.” • “I want to be everything to you and, in return, I want you to be my everything.” 8/10 Dirty Birdy 6/10 Enemies to Lovers 6/10 Forced Proximity
Not So Neighborly by Elyse Kelly ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Jack and Cassi live across the hall from each other. He tries to avoid her because he thinks she’s a rich princess, and she tries to avoid him because of the way he treats her. But when her condo floods, he’s offering up one of his guest rooms. They can barely look at each other, and now she’s sleeping in the room next to his! But then he surprises both of them, and me, by how easily being domesticated comes for him. When that switch flips, and they’re all hands and tongues and…naked, it is lovely!
7/10 Dirty Birdy 6/10 Enemies to Lovers 5/10 Age Gap 7/10 Billionaire 8/10 Forced Proximity 6/10 Slow Burn + grumpy/sunshine
This offering by the Taryn Quinn ladies in the FALLING FOR THE ENEMY charity anthology is nothing short of sizzling, and I could not get enough.
Jed and Peyton shouldn't work (that 'enemies' thing and all), but, boy, do they. Their spark is immediate and blazing hot. And while I'm not usually a fan of instalove, I was a fan of these two. The story is on the shorter side, but the ladies managed to show growth for both Peyton and Jed, which was nice. It would be great to see more of them, and since they're part of the Kensington Square/Crescent Cove world, my fingers are crossed. Taryn and Cari, if you're listening, take note. ;-)
Make sure to grab this anthology, because 100% of proceeds of the FALLING FOR THE ENEMY anthology benefit the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention. Clicking for a cause never felt so good... ❤️
I’m here for Elizabella Baker’s contribution. Why? Because I’ve wanted Daniel’s story for a while now. I had to know why he’s such a lone wolf, why he’s a tad cold, and what might be in both his past and his future. I was beyond surprised to find just how deep this man’s hurt went. And who was behind the betrayal.
But all is not as it seems. And Emma is resigned to finally accepting help. After all, she can no longer do it all on her own. But she wasn’t expecting her past to collide with her present or her mission. When she and Daniel sort through the secrets, the lies, the misery, and find that they still have a shared goal in mind, it’s game on. The surprises are many in this tale, from who they’ve spent time with (or haven’t) to where we may be heading next. I see a great new series coming from Daniel and Emma’s present, and I can’t wait for more.
Better Luck Next Time - Brit Benson Okay so, normally hockey romances aren't my favorite. Idk if it's because we don't have hockey here. But throw some enemies to lovers in there and I tell ya, I'll hop right on it! I feel like short stories/novellas are difficult to do with new characters sometimes because you don't have the time to truly set the scene or build up the characters. Or you feel like you're being dropped in head first into the middle of a story. But let me tell you. Brit nailed it with this. She had me falling in love with the story and the characters instantly (per usual). I swear, if this doesn't get turned into a full length novel, I'll riot. Because I need it. Because it was that good. That is all.
This was a charity anthology and I absolutely loved it! 😍
I have read anthologies in the past and thought they were pretty good, but this is the first one that I really loved all the stories in it! I loved that a lot of them were novellas and not all prequels!
Each book had the enemies to lovers theme of it with other added tropes for each.
My favorite books from this anthology are: ✨Sleeping with the Enemy by Ellie Isaccson ✨Drive Me Crazy by Shaw Hart & Cameron Hart ✨The Mile High Meet Cute by S.E. Rose ✨Enemy Kisses by Debra St. James ✨Not So Neighborly by Elyse Kelly ✨Falling for the Boss by Samantha Skye ✨Trick or Truce by Kristen Granata
I have read books by many of these authors, so I was already excited to read these stories, and not after reading them, they were just so good! 😍
Anthologies are typically a great place to check out new authors, support charities, and depending on the contributing author’s a great way to catch up with some of your favorite characters. This particular anthology is supporting a charity that is all about suicide prevention and contains stories from 19 authors all focusing on enemies to lovers. Frozen Heart by K.M. Scott – Did not read this one. Not a fan of the author, but from what I gather, this might end on a cliffhanger because the MCs story continues in Cruel King, which isn’t out yet. His Favorite Mistake by Taryn Quinn – I like the concept of the story, the spicy scenes were spicy, and there were elements of a burgeoning D/s relationship (lite). I felt it was little too descriptive for what it was and probably could have been a little shorter because I found myself skimming some of the pages. My biggest issue was it was like the author forgot if they were doing 1st or 3rd POV, for example, “I started to fan herself.” Prove it by Rebel Shaw – Typically best friend’s little sister scenario. It was okay. Hidden Truth by Morgan James – This is a novella from the author’s A Rescue and Redemption series. I almost DNFed this. In the beginning I felt a little lost since I’m not familiar with the author or the series. Based on this novella, looks like this series is probably a mafia romance and they aren’t really my thing. Sleeping with the Enemy by Ellie Isaacson – DNFed. For a novella there is a lot going on here. A lot of messed up characters. TW, SA of children mentioned and I’m assuming possibly discussed later in the story. Also when the hero and heroine are together the first time, it’s borderline SA. This story is not for me. HateMates by JD Hollyfield – This is part of a future book that will be coming out later. I’m assuming it’s the first third (maybe?). It was okay, but would like to see how the rest of the story turns out. Crossing Enemy Lines by Elizabella Baker – Second chance, prequel to the Blackguard Security series. The epilogue sets up the next book. It seems more about the suspense than the romance, but it is an interesting storyline. The appears to be an over reaching plot that will probably arc across the entire series. This will be an investment timewise. Treason by A.K. Rose – Mafia romance and only 7 chapters with no indication of a future series but seems to end on a cliffhanger of sorts. For such a short story there are to many characters happening. I skimmed through the story and had no clue what the heck was going on. Hostile Heart by Autumn Archer – Author note states this is a dark romance that includes her Jungle Oasis series and Souza Cartel series. I’m not a fan of dark romance and since this two of the author’s series, I did not read. Can’t Happen Again by Georgia Coffman – Steamy story, but I think I would have enjoyed this more if it had been a full-length novel. Taking place in NYC where you have to hustle; 2 models meet while doing a shoot for a romance novel cover. There’s instant sparks, so it’s kind of a friends to enemies to lovers situation. Would check out other books by this author. Drive Me Crazy by Shaw and Cameron Hart – Didn’t really enjoy this one because the heroine was all about jumping to conclusions and always assuming the worse at the drop of a hat. Hero isn’t very good at communicating which doesn’t help the situation. Maybe it had been more drawn out, I would have enjoyed it more. Devil in the Details by Aria Wyatt – Did not read because it ends on a cliffhanger and will be turned into a full-length novel in July 2023. Check TWs before reading. The Mile High Meet-Cute by S.E. Rose – I’m a fan of this author’s work, but this wasn’t my favorite work. There were a few continuity issues and some things that just didn’t make sense to me regarding flying first class international; he wants a row to himself for more room (in my experience, how little it is, doesn’t need the extra room). There’s a little bit of an age gap, and I did like the characters and their backstory and really liked how it played out in the end. Better Luck Next Time by Brit Benson – New adult/college age. I tend not to read books like this, they don’t go much for me; however, I did enjoy this. It was a cute story with some steam. There were a few things I wish the heroine called the hero out on. There is a note from the author at the end and it looks like this story will be turned into a full-length novel, which I will probably check out. Enemy Kisses by Debra St. James – Overall I enjoyed the story except for how annoying the heroine is in the beginning. There were a few continuity issues (can you tell by now the continuity is a big thing for me?), like in the beginning the hero mentions that she keeps going over to see the owner to talk about her issues with his patrons. When the reader finally sees her going over there, she’s amazed by how classy the place looks like she’s never been there… Not So Neighborly by Elyse Kelly – This story made no sense, why would a stranger who acts like he hates his neighbor offer ask her to temporarily move in with him, and why would the heroine take him up on this offer. While the characters deem themselves, I found the story kind of meh. San Diego Social Scene by Tess Summers – This story wasn’t for me. The lack of honest communication especially on the heroines part really annoyed me. I love a strong heroine with goals, but she gets all upset when he hints at more but doesn’t follow through because she keeps reiterating that it’s a “no strings” situation. Then there’s a little portion of a side storyline that relates to another book, which the way certain things are discussed just doesn’t work. If you’re going to add details make them, make sense. Falling for the Boss by Samantha Skye – Boss and employee situation. It’s a good story, no continuity issues that I can remember. There’s a little bit of suspense going on. This was a new to me author, and I might check out some of her other work. Trick of Truce by Kristen Granata – Single dad, age gap, and while I’m not a fan of kids in my romance books, the kid was a young female teenager, Noah, who seemed really mature for her age. The fact the heroine treated the Noah like an adult played a major factor in this story. There is a lot going on in this story, including a lot of emotion, but it all works. There’s a lot of little bits of heartbreak, but in the end, everything is put back together. I love the banter between characters and would love to check out more from this author.
My review is for Sleeping with the Enemy by Ellie Isaacson. Van is a new character who we meet in Bridgewater which is a new series that is coming, which I’m super excited about🤩
Van goes back home after his grandmother passes away, only to get caught up with the FBI Agent that is investigating the firm he works for. Not to be outdone by sleeping with the enemy but they stumble across a case of murder in their small home town in North Dakota as well😳
I can’t wait to see where their story goes and when I get a chance, I will try some of the other stories in this anthology as well❣️
Still reading the anthology, so will have to update this when done!
Loving it so hard.
Update! Freaking great reads!!
Frozen Heart K.M. Scott OMG. Matthias is such a jerk to Ava. Such a twist when he actually speaks to her and they find a connection. I'd so love to know what the reason they need to be kept apart is. Theo certainly doesn't help any when he goes out of his way to not let Matthias know anything about Ava when she suddenly leaves.
His Favorite Mistake Taryn QuinnPeyton is such a rebel! Finally taking her own life in her hands and out to experience it. When she meets Jed, it's a mixed blessing. She figures he's going to be just the one to help her experience life, and boy do they ever light the sheets on fire. They also manage to 'get' each other more than they expected. A one night stand gone wrong...when you get feelings of the forever kind.
Prove It Rebel ShawProve it! Fighting words and boy did Cooper ever prove it. Things take a turn for Cooper when his best friend's sister moves in next door. Time to take things to the next level and irritate her more. Misunderstanding from years past, Katie thinks he hates her. When Cooper makes up his mind, he really pulls out all the stops and sets out to change her mind and prove it. Hidden Truth Morgan James From enemies to lovers in record time! When you least expect it... Rolling into town, John comes to check on a past client. Surprised to find a reminder of his past also in town. Joselyn is struggling to keep afloat after her grandfather passed. someone is making it difficult when they keep searching her store for something. Rolling emotions and surprise intruders keep you guessing!
Sleeping with the Enemy Ellie Isaacson When fantasy comes true, Drea doesn't expect it to be as mindblowing as it is. Van and Drea have been at odds since they were kids. Drea has had a crush on him for as long.Odd family dynamics makes the funeral for Grandma so volatile. HateMates JD Hollyfield Yikes! This little tidbit was rocket hot. I cannot wait to read the full story. The heat between Tate and Mindy is wow. Mindy was attacked and now has Tate as her body guard. Serious tension and not all of it is hate!
Crossing Enemy Lines Elizabella Baker Seems like the boss knows all and wasn't sharing the details. Daniel was searching for his wife, who disappeared after the death of his daughter. Emma was out seeking revenge and answers. When Daniel finds his target is his wife, he jumps at the chance. When they start to work together, stuff gets done! Treason A.K. Rose Betrayal and Lust! Combo to keep the juices flowing. Booker and Greer are steamy!
Hostile Heart Autumn Archer Carina has gotten dragged into a dangerous situation. She's taken by Tomas to reveal her secrets. Will he kill her when she doesn't have the answers he's seeking?
Can’t Happen Again Georgia Coffman Spicy! Learning things about your roommate is hard. It's even harder when it starts with a potential new partner. Reagan tries so hard to avoid and steer clear of Theo, but the fates seem to be tempting them!
Drive Me Crazy Shaw Hart & Cameron Hart For two people who definitely got off on the wrong foot, when their landlord sends them on a trip to Frisco together to check out a place for her, their worlds turn upside down.
Devil in the Details Aria Wyatt Oh my, Elinora has it bad, and Lincoln is just the one to give it to her. Sadly, although communication is key in BDSM, Lincoln has left out a bit in his communication with Elinora which is definitely going to cause problems down the not so distant road.
The Mile High Meet-Cute S.E. Rose Well, that is one way to fulfill a bucket list item!
Better Luck Next Time Brit Benson Hockey players and their egos. Vale has been testing Piper since he first saw her and competing against her in class has the tension sky rocketing. That Piper is dating another hockey player who has it in for Vale is the icing on the cake. These two hate each other...but do they?
Enemy Kisses Debra St James Smokin hot! Feisty baker stands toe to toe with a seriously hot bar keep. Finn cannot believe how much he wants to be in Harry's space! Harry gets so riled when Finn is around. So much fun reading about these two.
Not So Neighborly Elyse Kelly Cassie runs into some trouble with her apartment and ends up sharing space with her neighbour. Problem is neither of them like each other! Things get pretty interesting as they live together and learn what each other is like.
San Diego Social Scene Tess Summers No strings! Sweaty sex! Sounds lovely, until feelings get in the way :) Lauren & Tristan seem to mesh in all the right ways, except they are not in a relationship. Fun reading through the ways to not be in a relationship, until things change!
Falling for the Boss Samantha Skye Love lawyers and hot billionaire ones are always moody. Damon fits the bill and is always an irritating man when Caroline is around. Luckily she's a confident lawyer who knows her worth. Although they rub each other the wrong way, after a year away, something has changed and the sparks fly.
Trick or Truce? Kristen Granata Wow, way to end an anthology, with a real heart stopper. Such an emotional ride! Noah and Grant are the typical teenager with dad, you know one not listening to the other? Elena is the perfect match for them. Calm, reasonable, intelligent, beautiful. Knows what to say to help open things up, except when it comes to her own love life. Such a great read.
Just from the ones I have read so far, I can't wait to devour the rest!!!!
Hostile Heir by Autumn Archer: The introduction to Tomas and Carina’s story is intense and intriguing. Carina has been kidnapped and finds herself at the mercy of Tomas’ father, a cruel cartel leader, terrified and not knowing what’s going to happen next. When Tomas is introduced into the picture a tiny bit of hope of mercy and attraction flare in Carina, until he shows her, he can be just as cruel as his father. The bits we get from Carina’s past and recent life show us she’s innocent here, but will Tomas believe her or even help her? The exciting and heart pounding intensity in such a quick read had me needing the rest of their story, I mean to be left in the tiger situation had me running to get their duet. Can’t Happen Again by Georgia Coffman: Theo and Raegan meet on set for a photo shoot, and they have instant chemistry that has sparks flying and when things start to get hot and heavy it all comes to a screeching halt when Raegan’s roommate drops the bombshell that changes it all. While Raegan gets her roommates’ side of the story that paints Theo in a horrible light, she refuses to hear his side. Weeks go by and neither one can stop thinking of each other, Theo with passion in his eyes and some resentment towards Raegan’s inability to hear his side and Raegan with anger in her eyes thinking the worst of Theo. The way Theo really gets under Raegan’s skin sets so much into motion, but will Raegan ever see reason and try to listen to him, and will Theo be the guy that settles down? A cute read with a lot of emotion and all the steam.
“There it is. The truth I’ve been happily suspecting all night.”
This review is for “Can’t Happen Again” by Georgia Coffman.
One of the things I adore about Georgia’s books is that, for the most part, they all occur in the same “world”. Because of this you never know when someone from a prior book is going to pop up. Case in point, the two main characters in this story, Theo and Reagan, are romance novel cover models. Who is their newest phot shoot for? None other than our favorite author, and star of her own romance, Pia Matthews. And joining them at dinner is Pia’s hot, rockstar husband, Elijah Hastings. Truth be told, if you read enough of Georgia’s books, you start to feel like you know everyone so every time one shows up or is mentioned, it’s like it’s a personal friend.
“Can’t Happen Again” is actually a very fun story. I adored Theo and his big, Greek family. They pretty much stole every scene they were in. And I’m betting money one day in the near future we’re going to get a new book titled “Stuck With the Greek” or something similar. Niko and the object of his desire, Skylar, have a story just waiting to be told.
It was a lot of fun watching Reagan fall for Theo pretty much against her will. He was so adorable I seriously don’t know how she resisted as long as she did. They had such great chemistry and it was obvious from the start they were actually perfect for each other. Don’t worry, though, despite how it sounds, this story is pretty much zero angst. It’s just a fun, enjoyable way to spend an hour or so and end with a smile.
So this one slipped under the radar a little, on my kindle, sorry Brit 🙈 BLNT is a short story within the Falling for the Enemy Charity Anthology that came out a while ago and I believe it won't be available for much longer? So, grab it while you can!
This takes place within the Better Love universe. However, we don't see any of the other characters from the previous books, so it can definitely be read as a standalone.
Vale seems like the perfectly handsome, super cocky ice hockey player but his reasoning is actually adorable! Plus he's an ice hockey player so he's already a 10, which LOL BRIT OMG I JUST GOT THE CONNECTION TO HIS SHIRT NUMBER! 😂🤦🏻♀️
Loved Piper's character too, especially the mix between her being slightly unconfident but knowing how to stand up for herself.
Plus, the little friendship moment between her and the bathroom girls was a classic Brit Benson 'found family incoming moment' and I'd love to see that developed further!
"Focus, please. No wonder you can barely keep up with me in class."
I can't wait until it gets turned into a full length novel, because I was loving the enemies-to-lovers, academic rivalry! It created a fun but sexy chemistry between Piper and Vale, which I think will only get steamier as the book gets expanded! 😍 (No pressure on knocking this one out though Brit 💀😅).
I read Enemy Kisses by Debra St James, Can't Happen Again by Georgia Coffman, and Better Luck Next Time by Brit Benson.
Enemy kisses This is the book I have been the most excited about and it was so much fun to read! Debra's characters are likeable and compassionate and you will fall in love with them! Do not miss this story!!!
Enemy kisses is about cafe owner, Harry, and her troubles dealing with the pub next door! Finn doesn't understand why it is his problem that his customers leave a mess once they leave the premises. Imagine his surprise when his neighbor turns out of be a gorgeous women with so much sass he can't stay away!
I loved Harry and Finn and their banter! If you are familiar with debra's books you will be thrilled to see Toby, Max, and Molly. I can't wait to see how she uses some of the new characters in future books! And don't skip the epilogue! You are gonna want to read it!
Georgia Coffman Can't Happen Again Can't happen again is a sexy story about Theo and Reagan who met while working a modeling job. There was immediate chemistry and things were off to a great start. That is until Reagan's roommate throws a wrench in the mix. Theo is the man who abandoned her during a date after she hurt her ankle! Who would want to date a guy who would do that! Read this fun and steamy short story and see how this seemingly doomed relationship turns out! I absolutely loved the main characters along with everyone else! You get to meet a rockstar, a romance novelist, and a huge loveable Greek family! I'm gonna warn you that you might leave the story hungry with all the talk of the food!
Brit Benson Better luck next time Better Luck Next Time is about Piper who catches her boyfriend, Jaxon, cheating on her and decides revenge is just what she needs! Vale is teammates with Jaxon and is happy to help Piper make him pay. A fake relationship is the perfect way to teach him a lesson! Read to see how long before the fake turns real. I absolutely loved this story and can't wait to read the full size book about these amazing characters!
I am still working my way through this anthology but a couple of the stories have already stuck with me! I absolutely loved His Favorite Mistake by Taryn Quinn. Peyton is a singer with (basically) a goody two shoes reputation, and she wants to move away from that. But in trying to do that, she crashes a Porsche after taking it for a spin. Jed is an ex-cop who follows her and pulls over after she crashes. And the attraction to her is immediate, even not knowing who she is. And it leads to a night that neither will ever forget! I loved this story and the chemistry between these two, I just wish it could have been longer. But I know it couldn't just because it is an anthology! But it was soooo good!!
The other story that I have loved so far is Frozen Heart by KM Scott. I have had this author on my TBR list for a while, and I definitely have to bump her stories up after this one! Mattias and Ava have a lot of angst but the events in this short story left me wanting to read more about them. And I can't decide if I love Mattias or I want to smack him around. I will definitely be reading the expanded book when it releases in August!
I am currently reading Crossing Enemy Lines by Elizabella Baker and this is a new to me author but this story (so far) is super good and has sucked me in. But I always am a sucker for protector type stories!
Definitely an anthology well worth the read and for a great cause! And I always love to see and support ones like this one!
Falling for the Enemy is Charity Anthology filled with 20plus mini stories by some of our favorite story tellers. Each story is a novella that is intense, emotional, that is filled with angst, banter... It kept me on my toes and turning those pages to find out what happens next!
100% of proceeds benefit The American Foundation for Suicide Prevention.
𝙏𝙝𝙚𝙢𝙚(𝙨) = Bully Romance ♥ enemies-to-lovers ♥ College ♥ Sports ♥ Brother’s BFF ♥ Billionaire ♥ Forced Proximity ♥ Secrets/Lies ♥ Age Gap ♥ Suspense ♥ Grumpy/Sunshine ♥ OTT Cocky, Possessive MMCs ♥ Touch-Her-and-💀 ♥ Dual POVs 𝙏𝙧𝙞𝙜𝙜𝙚𝙧𝙨 = Language ♥ Sexual Content ♥ Fighting ♥ BDSM ♥ Drug Use ♥ Death 𝙃𝙚𝙖𝙩 𝙇𝙚𝙫𝙚𝙡 = 🔥🔥🔥🔥 𝙎𝙩𝙖𝙧 𝙍𝙖𝙩𝙞𝙣𝙜 = ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️1/2
- Frozen Heart by KM Scott - His Favorite Mistake by Taryn Quinn - Can’t Happen Again by Georgia Coffman - Prove It by Rebel Shaw - Treason by A.K. Rose - Hostile Heir by Autumn Archer - HateMates by JD Hollyfield - Sleeping with the Enemy by Ellie Isaccson - Better Luck Next Time by Brit Benson - Drive Me Crazy by Shaw Hart & Cameron Hart - The Mile High Meet Cute by S.E. Rose - Enemy Kisses by Debra St. James - Not So Neighborly by Elyse Kelly - Falling for the Boss by Samantha Skye - Crossing Enemy Lines by Elizabella Baker - Hidden Truth by Morgan James - San Diego Social Scene by Tess Summers - Falling for the Boss by Samantha Skye - Trick or Truce by Kristen Granata
So far I've read His Favorite Mistake by Taryn Quinn. It features a former cop turned writer, and a good girl singer who wants to change things up. Who better to help her with it than a man with a vivid imagination and lots of um expert knowledge?
Seriously hot insta with two really likable characters. I would love it *hint hint!* if this were turned into a full-length novel so I could enjoy Jed and Peyton as a couple a lot longer.
ARC provided by Taryn Quinn for an honest review. Ebook also purchased through Amazon.
We meet Matthias and Ava when they get stranded in a snow storm. Ava thought Matthias has always hated her because of cruel he was towards, but during the snow storm he tells her he never hated her and wanted to be with her. She doesn’t know the reasons why he pushed her away all these years. I want to read the whole story and can’t wait for it to come out in August. I like the hate to love her trope and the forbidden love aspect of this story.
This review is for A Mile High Meet Cute by S.E. Rose 5/5 ⭐️ 3/5 🌶️
Paris and Rivers story was one of my faves in this anthology! River is this grumpy guy with an age gap that just wants to be left alone on his flight home, but he gets stuck next to Paris a girl he had kicked out of a club last week for annoying him. At first I wasn’t sure I’d like his character. He was pretentious and an aśshat, but honestly I ended up really liking their chemistry and vibe! I have never flown first class, but SE Rose really wrote the descriptions well and I loved her overall writing and the way Paris and Rivers story developed so much that I wanted more of it.
Frozen Heart by K.M. Scott - Matthias and Ava’s story had me hooked from the start. Matthias is the brooding type to Ava, and she can’t figure out why he acts that way toward her. She has lived on their estate since she can remember, her father works for Matthias’s father, she is adored by the rest of his family, so what is his problem? One night while a snowstorm hits, their little cottage loses power and heat, Ava trudges up to the main house to keep warm until her father comes back. She encounters Matthias and she is not in the mood to put up with his snide and rude comments. She demands to know why he hates her so much, but she is not prepared for his answer. She realizes she has him pegged all wrong. He opens up about how much he craves her, and has always seen her. He begs her to always remember him as he is now, not how he has to be when others are around. Will Matthias risk it all to be with Ava when everyone around them doesn’t want them to be? I am hooked, I can’t wait for the full book Cruel King coming August 8.
I read His Favorite Mistake by Taryn Quinn and it was soo hot!
Peyton Pryor is a famous singer that appeals to teen girls and has this clean, good girl image to uphold. Unfortunately, she wants to break free a little bit and takes a Porsche out for a test drive when she ends up crashing it.
Jed is an ex-cop who happens to see this Porsche fly by him and chases after it. Since he was chasing it when it fishtailed and hit the curb, he pulls over to make sure the driver's ok. When he catches a glimpse of the woman with a clingy dress and thigh high boots, he's very interested in her and he has no idea who she really is.
Peyton wants to continue this reckless behavior and go home with him. It seems that Jed isn't quite so vanilla and Peyton is definitely enjoying this crazy hot walk on the wild side.
I don't want to give everything away but these two have a HOT night together! Peyton gets introduced to things she's only read about and clearly enjoys. But will anything come of the two of them? Read to find out.
International pop star Peyton Pryor just wanted to get away from her life for a little while fast, in a borrowed (legally) Porsche. What she doesn’t expect to have a small accident or to be detained by ex-detective Jed Knight who seems to have no clue about her identity which makes him even more delicious. Some hot flirting leads to a night neither one can forget. Filled with hot, sexy times and feelings neither one expected; I loved this story.
There’s always something so delicious about a one night stand when it exceeds expectations leaving both people feeling a bit raw. While neither one handled their morning after very well; it did lead to them both making some changes and figuring out that being together would make life better.
Despite this being a novella, I felt these authors did a wonderful job of letting us see these characters grow in order to go after they life they wanted.
His Favorite Mistakes was a delightful and fun romp!
Who doesn’t enjoy a sizzling enemies to lovers trope? “Sleeping with the Enemy” by Ellie Issacson was everything! Ratings wise - 4/5 Spice + 4/5 Stars overall because I need everything Bridgewater Security now. Haha. I felt every feeling imaginable in such a short story! Heat, excitement, tension, angst, joy, sorrow, hate, & everything in between. There were times I wasn’t even sure who the ‘enemy’ was supposed to be! • Van works for Bridgewater Security & is making his own way in the company. He’s stubborn yet brilliantly intelligent. We learn his grandmother has passed away & he’s hoping to fly back to North Dakota to support his siblings.
Drea is an FBI agent who is basically family to Van’s Grandma. We all have those “family” members who aren’t technically family. She’s grandma’s best friend’s sister….
….oh yeah - she’s also currently investigating Bridgewater Security & all it’s employees.
Now - these two have to somehow make it through the funeral, the trials of family, & everything in between. Can they do that without falling too far for each other?
Enemy Kisses is another excellent story by Ms.St.James; a slow-burn enemies to lovers romance. I guarantee you will enjoy it as much as I did!
Finn owns Brady's bar, neighboring the new Croissant & Crepes cafe that Harriet recently opened. She is ticked off at needing to clean up the bar trash left in the lane behind the buildings overnight before starting her work in the morning.
The chemistry between Finn and Harry is off the charts. Harry's snarkiness has put off men before, but Finn is drawn by her fire. In a story of only about 40k words, the author delivers an amazingly complex story with realistic, believable character development. There are multiple layers of interactions that create a full and vibrant community where the characters live and work.
I received an Beta/ARC copy of this story directly from the author and voluntarily chose to share my review.
I read His Favorite Mistake by Taryn Quinn. Peyton Pryor is a famous pop/bubblegum singer that appeals to teen girls and has a squeaky clean good girl image to uphold. she wants to be more "edgy" but her family doesn't support it, so she acts out, which includes borrowing a new Porche and has an accident.
Jed is an ex-cop who happens to see Peytons Porsche fly by him and chases after it. Since he was chasing it when it fishtailed and hit the curb, he pulls over to make sure the driver's ok. when he sees the driver his interest is engaged and they go back to his place, after some banter.
Jed introduces her to the "walk on the wild side" and their meeting is hot, fast and wild. safe word included!
these two have a HOT night together, and Peyton gets introduced to things she's only read about and clearly enjoys. will their romance, last? will her new direction in music be accepted by her fans? Read to find out.
*100% of proceeds benefit the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention
This charity anthology is riddled with a great cast of some great authors. I’ve read Can’t Happen Again by Georgia Coffman. Theo & Raegan meet on a photo shoot for a book cover. You know…those we all know and love. Their chemistry is intense & their innocent flirtatious banter shows merit. One date, or sorts, right after the shoot, they find their chemistry extends beyond camera time. Little does she know, Theo is the man who broke Dakota’s (Raegan’s roommate) heart recently. Girl code dictates that she drop him like a bad habit. But sometimes, chemistry speaks louder than undetailed & misinformed stories. As Dakota starts showing more signs of her extremely selfish behavior, and another photo shoot is commissioned, these two cross paths again. Will the truth come out? Did Theo truly break Dakota’s heart? What happens when chemistry refuses to be denied?
Review for Can’t happen again by Georgia Coffman. Can you love someone you tried hard to hate? Raegan is a photographer and book cover model, struggling like most people living in the city, but she gets by with her jobs. She meets Theo at a photo shoot and they share instant chemistry. He comes from a loud and big greek family and as Reagan, he makes a living from his modeling gigs and also does a podcast with his brother. Their first encounter is halted very quickly, but it remains hot in their mind until they meet again. So they find themselves in this hate road but wanting each other all the way. Will all the hate and other people interference keep them apart or will they finally reach common ground and grow out of it? This is a lovely story, very slow burn, but entertaining non the less. You will for sure love the banter between the couple, and how their spark really fires up. Super quick read you won’t stop until done! ❤️🔥
My review is for His Favorite Mistake by Taryn Quinn. This a hot steamy novella set in fictional Kensington Square. Jed is a former police officer that doesn't know how to quite let go of his previous life. While sitting in his Bronco one night he sees a sports car traveling too fast down his quiet, country road. Instead of calling the local police he pursues the car which ends up having a minor accident. Jed stops to help the stranger and is brought into the world of pop singer Peyton who he doesn't know or recognize. Peyton wanted to break free from her structured world and a wild ride in a sports car seemed like the perfect way to start. After seeing this sexy stranger, she realizes that he fits perfectly in her plans of exploring her wild side. Jed and Peyton's story is a steamy insta-love interlude that was a lot of fun. It was told from dual POV and was a nice addition to the Kensington Square world.
Jed and Peyton took me by surprise! They were passionate, they brought the fire and boy oh boy were they well matched for each other. Taryn Quinn really knows how to bring two people together and make it impossible not to fall head over heels in love with them. I do think that for Jed….Peyton was indeed his favorite mistake. She was able to run free and be herself when all the confines of her life were making freedom nonexistent. I loved getting to see her blossom into the women that Jed can fall for. Jed also had his own evolution in finding out that Peyton could be the one for him and that she would bring out the best in him as well. I wish this was a full length novel and not a novella because I am intrigued at where their story might go beyond this! I absolutely adored these two!!!
I look forward to continuing the other novellas and falling in love with even more characters!
Review for Better Luck Next Time by Brit Benson: 4.5 Stars
What's better than having an enemy? An enemy that also hates your cheating ex.
Piper + Vale may have perfected their hatred for one another, but when her ex publically humiliates her they decide to turn the tables on him. Fake dating is the perfect plan - no one ever gets hurt, right? Lines blur, and they realize that maybe it isn't really hatred sizzling between them.
This was such a fun novella, but I definitely need more! I couldn't get enough of Piper + Vale's banter and the chemistry between the two was off the charts. And while this was a short story, Brit Benson still gave us amazing character and word-building, teasing us and leaving us begging for more. Fingers crossed we get a full-length novel for these two!
I read Brit Benson's entry Better Luck Next Time and it was fantastic.
This quickie story was so much fun to read. I got all the things I love about a Brit Benson story in a bite-sized format.
In Piper we have a smart, driven, awesome female lead who is screwed over a little by her cheating jerk of a boyfriend. She is antagonized by Vale, a rising star on the hockey team who wants to help her stick it to her ex and get top spot on the team.
This one is mostly single sided from Piper's POV with a little from Vale at the end that makes you want to have seen his side all along.
I loved this snack sized format but all it does is make me crave a full sized portion.
I requested and was provided with an advanced copy of this specific story, but I did pre-order the anthology and look forward to reading other author's entries as well.