Hero – Can include retired/former athlete but probably primarily sportsball romance
Heartstopper, Book #1
Heat Factor: First kiss
Character Chemistry: There are so many blushing faces images. It’s adorable.
Plot: Charlie, a nerd, is seated next to rugby lad Nick in class, and their unlikely friendship develops into a troublesome crush
Overall: Sweetness overload. I bought the next three books. Whoops.
WAGS, Book #3
Heat Factor: They have a hot one-night-stand, then it’s all about an emotional outlet
Character Chemistry: The strength is in their mutual desire to be great co-parents
Plot: Kim and Ronin have a one-night stand. When they meet again months later, Kim shoots down Ronin’s suggestion for a repeat, only to discover days later that she’s pregnant with his baby
Overall: If you’re looking for an accidental pregnancy book that’s not centered on miscommunication and angst, this one is great.
Game Changers, Book #6
Review of Game Changers: Book #1, Book #2, Book #4, Book #5
Heat Factor: It’s sexy (like the rest of the series), but unlike in Heated Rivalry, most of the sex is at home, so it’s heavy on their emotional connection this time, and less about the tittilation of sexual awakening and sneaking around
Character Chemistry: Shane likes to be *rewarded* (wink) for the discipline of never letting on that he’s in love with Ilya, while all Ilya wants is affection
Plot: Shane and Ilya have been secretly in a monogamous relationship for three years, and it was all going fine…until a confluence of components of Ilya’s life make it not so fine anymore
Overall: A relationship in trouble in which both parties really want to make it work, but are fearful that they won’t be able to
Slow Burn, Book 2
Heat Factor: This series is called “Slow Burn,” so don’t be surprised when the sex happens pretty late in the story.
Character Chemistry: It’s obvious to everyone but Joellen that Cameron is completely smitten.
Plot: Joellen’s new neighbor is suuuuuper annoying and suuuuuper hot and somehow now he’s giving her kissing lessons.
Overall: I really liked this one, but I also know that some readers may find some parts of this book challenging.
Heat Factor: Explicit but euphemistic. What sorcery is this?
Character Chemistry: Shouting makes them horny.
Plot: Objects in motion will stay in motion unless stopped by a deceitful pregnancy and forced marriage.
Overall: We were happier than a 90s tween getting a Delia’s catalog.
Heat Factor: Scary hot. No, really. Scary. And sometimes hot.
Character Chemistry: Basically fated mates.
Plot: Iris is in a relationship she can’t leave but is drawn to August in spite of herself.
Overall: 🚨 A very difficult read 🚨
The Smut Report 