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Review: Dad Bod Rockstar by Melissa Schroeder
Dad Bod Rockstar
Melissa Schroeder
The Melissa Schroeder Instalove Collection
Niall
A lot of people look at my life and think I have it all. Multiple platinum records, more money than I know what to do with, and a seemingly never ending string of women. Everyone thinks they know me, but very few do. I’m ready to settle down, but most women see the rockstar and not the man.
Until Blossom.
She’s way too young for me, and so innocent I’m embarrassed by my infatuation. But the moment I meet her, I’m in love. I only have a couple days with her before I have to be back on the road, so I fill them with as much romance as I can and I promise to get back to her.
Blossom
I’ve led a sheltered life. All I have ever wanted was to be a baker. I spent my early twenties building my reputation, and the past two years running my own small town bakery. I’m over the moon at my success, still there has been something missing.
Then in walks Niall Holden, my celebrity crush.
He loves my baking, and insists on taking me to dinner. We spend two glorious nights together because he has to be back on the road. He promises he will return as soon as his tour is done. I want to believe in happily ever after, but stories in the tabloids make me realize I’m not cut out for this kind of relationship.
Only Niall doesn’t agree, and when he shows up in my small town again, he insists that I am the woman for him. That may be true, but does he just want me…or will he want us?
This story is an age gap, small town, surprise baby romance set in Melissa Schroeder’s Instalove World. It includes a grumpy but totally sweet rockstar, an adorkable baker with a quirky way of looking at the world, cupcakes and cookies, and the antics of the Patton brothers and their wives from The Dominon Rockstar Romance series. There is no cheating, an HEA, and can be read as a stand-alone.
Dad Bods made a big impression in 2021 – and they’re not going anywhere! This January, some of your favorite contemporary romance authors are bringing you a sexy selection of brawny, hot Dad Bods and the women who love their men with a little something extra to hold on to.
These men may be built for comfort but don’t be fooled – they will stop at nothing to protect the women who’ve claimed their heart.
Melissa Schroeder delivers another fantastic insta-love story!
For a short read, Melissa Schroeder packed a lot into the sweet and sexy story. We get it a small town romance, sweets for all of us foodies, who doesn’t love a rockstar romance and A surprise baby. It’s got a little something for just about all of your reading tastes.
Niall has lived The rockstar life and got a reputation to go with it. After many years of being in the business, what most people don’t know is all he wants is to settle down. Blossom is the best at what she does. She worked her tail off to prove herself in the baking world. She’s Proud of herself and she truly deserves it. What can make her world better? Having a rockstar crush walk into your bakery and ask you to dinner. You know things can happen!
I loved this story. Dad Bod Rockstar is a daydream of a story. Niall and Blossom are perfect together. I love that she see him for who he is and not his stardom. Niall shows his true self from the first moment, he’s genuine and caring. Their attraction is completely believable and they come together naturally. They enjoy one another and know how to have fun. Even when the gospel gets in the way they know how to do the right thing and work it out. A great short story to start the beginning of the year
Review: Falling for the Girl Next Door by Melissa Schroeder
Falling for the Girl Next Door
Melissa Schroeder
The Fighting Sullivans Series, Book 2
From the USA Today Bestselling author of The Santinis comes a story of another group of military brothers who are about to meet the women who will own their hearts.
Alyx Sullivan finds that opposites attract in the most delightful ways.
My siblings give me crap about being the one with the bad temper. I’m not denying it. I say I make it work for me. Especially with my neighbors. They’ve all stopped making eye contact with me in the elevator, and I like it that way.
Except for Lizbeth.
She’s my next door neighbor, teacher of little people, and all around happy person. She probably wakes up smiling and happy. The first moment we met, I wanted her, but I am not a man made for happily ever afters.
So I’ve been as rude as possible to her, but she just doesn’t care. And with each interaction, it’s harder to resist the need I have for her. She’s wholesome and pretty and I just want to do all kinds of wicked things to her and with her…just EVERYTHING.
And in one moment, I give into my desires and let’s just say…MIND BLOWN…along with other things.
Only, Lizbeth has a secret she’s been keeping, one that could have deadly consequences.
4 Stars
Lizbeth is a sweet and charismatic woman. She has an abundance of patience and a sharp mind. That’s the nature of the game when you’re a kindergarten teacher. Lizbeth’s mother had a tradition of turning neighbors into friends and family. When her stubborn but extremely sexy neighbor resists all her tries at friendship she breaks out the big guns. Yet, Lizbeth may be getting more than she is asking for but just what she needs.
Alyx is kind of on the quiet side, is grumpy most of the time and is fine with that. He’s that neighbor that wants to be left alone but when Lizbeth’s Genuine and innocent nature is all over the hallways of their building he can’t help but take notice. The more Alyx tries to resist the more he can’t stop thinking about her. The moment he allows himself to get to know her he knows that he must protect her and that she is the one.
I loved this short read. Perfect for an afternoon escape. Alyx is the kind of grumpy that you can’t help but to swoon over. Lizbeth is sweet and infectious in the best way. Falling for the Girl Next Door Is classic Melissa Schroeder writing. You have characters that are interesting, humor to go along with your story, a little bit of action and quite a bit of heat. Perfect on site read.
Review: Wild Love by Melissa Schroeder
Wild Love
Melissa Schroeder
Juniper Springs Series, Book 1
Then I met him.
Quinn is a big bear of a man, with massive hands and amazing…staying power. Like all night long and the next morning kind of staying power. So when he asks me to spend the next day with him, I do. The only reason I give him my number is because he makes me laugh. And, okay, so I might have met up with him once or twice.
That doesn’t mean I need him. Because I am Everly Freaking Spencer, and I don’t need anyone (other than my bestie), and definitely not a man.
Only…
He shows up by chance at my store, which totally freaks me out. Finding out he’s my favorite author doesn’t help either.
And the surprise that’s dropped in our laps later that day?
Major. Freak. Out.
But, like I said, I don’t need anyone.
Right?
If I keep repeating that, I might just believe it.
Author warning: Get ready for a trip into the hippiest little town in Texas. There’s gossipy little old ladies (LOLs), an app that every teenager hates, trips to Denver and Cali, a woman who is convinced true love doesn’t exist, and man who aims to prove her wrong by doing things to her that should embarrass the author. And she was. (Not really). Along the way readers get to spend time with the gorgeous Hawthorne brothers and gay ducks. SERIOUSLY. GAY. DUCKS. Just get the book already because you know you want to know about them. Also, there’s a happily ever after fit for a woman with commitment issues and man who just doesn’t know when to give up.
Review: Undeniable by Melissa Schroeder
Undeniable
Melissa Schroeder
Dominion Rockstar Series, Book 1
Part of the Melissa Schroeder Instalove Collection.
From the first moment I met her, I’ve wanted Pippa March. She’s sexy, smart, and funny. But she works for my band, managing us through our biggest tour yet, so she’s off limits.
Until one night, and one kiss. Once she gives herself to me, I know will never let her go. Unfortunately Pippa comes with baggage, namely her absent rockstar father. I have one night to convince her that I want her forever, and I don’t intend to fail.
Author Note: This is an instaromance with a silent bear of an Alpha hero, a spunky British heroine, lots of feels, a happily ever after with no cheating and no cliffhangers.
3.5 Stars
Undeniable is a quick read with a lot of personality.
I very much enjoyed Gareth and Piper. The moment they met, you could just tell. They tried to keep it professional but it was only a matter of time. It may be an Insta love story but I prefer to say it is more of an act on your impulse story. Gareth and Piper chemistry together it’s quite explosive. Together they are raw and fierce yet gentle and loving. They definitely heat up the pages in the best of ways. I very much enjoyed Undeniable. Melissa Schroeder always brings so much personality with her characters in her stories. Even with this one being a short one, she packs in everything I love within her books. Humor and emotion along with some incredibly sexy times.
I look forward to getting to know more of the Dominion Rock band.
Review: A Little Harmless Taboo by Melissa Schroeder
A Little Harmless Taboo: Wulf Sibling Trilogy Book 2
Melissa Schroeder
Harmless Series, Book 14
200 pages
Expected publication: September 15th 2020 by Harmless Publishing
Julienne Wulf has always played the good girl.
You know the type. The one who never got in trouble, unlike both of her brothers. But after a very public break-up, she’s ready to walk on the wild side and have her first one night stand. And she finds the perfect candidate. A man she never plans on seeing again.
Until they come face to face a few days later at her new job site.
But that’s okay, she can handle it, and handle the sexy former Army Ranger. No, wait, she isn’t going to handle him. She will deal with the situation like an adult.
Alek Johnson left Hawaii with a broken heart.
Fifteen years ago, the woman he loved dumped him when he signed up to serve in the military. Now, though, his family needs him. When Julienne shows up in Hawaii, they agree to work together and forget about their night together.
Problem is, they can’t keep their hands off each other. So they agree to a short fling, but they never expected their hearts to get involved.
Soon, tongues are wagging about their affair, and when someone from Julienne’s past threatens their future, Alek is determined to protect her at all costs.
Warning: This story includes a good woman with naughty thoughts, a hero who wants to help her live out those fantasies, a meddling family–on both sides, and a trip back to the islands. This is another Harmless story, so you know the drill. Ice water is recommended and the author takes no responsibility for overheating readers
4.5 Stars
Nothing like the paparazzi to shake things up when there is nothing to be shaken up. Julienne is a low key girl with a low key life. Ending a relationship with a not so great ex has him dragging her reputation through the mud. Julienne is off to the beautiful paradise that is Hawaii for a little work and to put all the madness behind her. A layover in San Francisco finds Julienne stepping out her norm and wanting something just for fun, just for her. Walking into a hotel bar normally wouldn’t change a person’s life, but for Julienne it’s the beginning of something. Alek Johnson is a former Army Ranger who’s returning home to help his family. A honorable and loyal man who finds a new side to himself when he lays his eye on a woman who spins his world all around. One night. One fantastic night leaves a last impression that lingers on both their minds. Days later when they come face to face, even in their work environment, sparks ignite and heat takes over. Will they find their happiness in paradise?
I loved Alek and Julienne! What a couple. Their attraction may have been fast but it felt so natural. Their chemistry was beautiful and intense. Alek knew Julienne was his one and I loved how in everything they did, he did what he could to show her. They may have started from a one night stand, the more time they spent together the more you know they belong with each other.
A Little Harmless Taboo is classic Melissa Schroeder writing that I love so much. Great characters, a paradise setting and a love story you can feel through the pages. Humor and heart. We even get a visit from some beloved characters that always put a smile on my face. A trip to Ms. Schroeder’s Hawaii is never a bad thing.
Review: Love to Hate You by Melissa Schroeder
Love to Hate You
Melissa Schroeder
The Fillmore Series, Book 2
Published June 2020 Harmless Publishing
Grab the next exciting installment from USA Today Bestselling author Melissa Schroeder set in the Camos and Cupcakes world!
For years, I’ve loved him. Not that I ever told him, or that he would ever be able to tell. I hid it from him…from everyone including my best friend.
Travis Fillmore is my best friend’s brother and the object of my infatuation. He’s also my cohost for our home improvement show and we are zooming to the top right now. Unfortunately, I can’t work with him any more. He’s pushed me too far with his antics and I’m walking away. Only, he just realized how much he needs me on the show and he wants me back. He just pops into town and thinks I will forgive and forget.
At first, I don’t believe him, but he won’t go away. He tells me that he’s changed, that he can be professional. And I believe him. Until he kisses me…and then does a whole lot more. A night with him is a fantasy come true–until someone threatens our happiness. An overzealous fan…I can deal with that. What scares me is the man who could shatter my heart and leave me broken.
Warning: This book include breaking and entering, donuts, sarcastic friends, a woman with many trust issues, a man who doesn’t realize what he wants until he almost loses it, a weirdo who doesn’t understand boundaries, nosey neighbors, a trip to the Juniper Jail again, and a happily ever after for two people who finally admit they are in love.
4 Stars
Travis Fillmore and Nancy Howard star together on a well to do home improvement show. Their relationship is much longer than a span that the show has been going. Nancy is Travis‘s sister’s best friend and have known each other for many many years. Working together is natural for them. However curveballs are thrown when neither one of them can no longer deny what they feel for one another.
Travis’ head gets big and his attitude goes right along with it. Nancy has had it with the crap and quits the show. Only too late does Travis realize what the bigger picture of it all is, and set with a new determination not only to get his co host back but prove that she was so much more than that all along. The old saying goes “You don’t know what you got until it’s gone”, until you have a sister who is not afraid to kick you in the behind to make you realize it’s not gone but groveling will be necessary.
Nancy and Travis have a solid friendship and along the way it turns into so much more. Denial can only get you so far until you realize you might have just missed out on it all. Their bickering and dancing around one another is just a slow burn that is bound to explode. And they surely do. As they begin to acknowledge their feelings for one another Nancy discovers a stalker on her tail. And with that one thing, everything for Nancy and Travis changes. They may be watching over their shoulders but they know their feelings for one another are genuine, true and completely mutual. I loved visiting Juniper Springs and it’s corky town folks. The LOL are a riot. In its own weird way it felt like a home away from home. Ms. Schroeder gives readers an entertaining and slow burn romance with Love to Hate You. Well developed characters with charismatic personalities along with a fun setting, an entertaining plot line and some steamy romance more than make Love to Hate You a more than enjoyable read.
ARC Review: Luscious by Melissa Schroeder
Luscious
Melissa Schroeder
Camos and Cupcakes Series, Book 2
Published August 2019 by Harmless Publishing
When by the book Harry Bradley gets thrown together with his sister’s best friend EJ, opposites don’t just attract, they explode.
She’s my sister’s best friend. A woman who calls to me on every level, but she can’t stand me. Our one date ended when she deemed it over and left–before we even ordered food. So I shouldn’t want her.
But I do.
Still, I’ve mastered controlling my emotions and my lusting…well, mostly. Of course, when she suggests we work together to promote both of our businesses, I jump at the chance. That chance leads to a kiss…and so much more.
Now, if I can just restrain my control freak ways, all will be well.
Warning: This book includes more cupcakes (of course), meddling friends, romance book references, a gun-toting Grandma, a trip out of state, wine, more cupcakes, and a dirty talking hero who not only surprised the heroine, but also this author. I’m not embarrassed…not really. Okay, maybe a little…a lot. Never mind. Just know that you have been warned and I will not be held responsible for any blushing in public. Also…CUPCAKES.
4 Stars
From the concept, to the characters, to the storyline, what’s not to love. Melissa Schroeder gots something special going on with her Camos and Cupcakes Series. The second book of the series, Luscious gives readers the icing on the cake on with an emotional, fun and sexy read. Harry and EJ are decadent together.
Harry is one fine Texas man. What can I say, Harry is giving all my favorite Santini men a run for their money. Charming, a smile to stop you in your tracks, and a mouth you never see coming. Smart, caring and as Harry says his momma raised him right. He’s charismatic and full of personality. Harry is fun character.
EJ is a spit fire of a southern belle if there ever was one. She’s strong, independent and in control of her life. Seeing love fail first hand has steered her clear. Being the owner of a romance only bookstore is kind of a contradiction to EJ’s way of thinking. In EJ’s mind happily ever after‘s are for books not for life.
Harry and EJ shared an evening together months back that they both referred to as the date from hell. It may have been a date from hell, but their chemistry and their bodies didn’t agree with that. Fast forward to the present and you’re both trying to fight the crush is a decade in the making and what chemistry is doing to them. I love the dynamic between Harry and EJ. The back-and-forth banter between these two is downright hysterical at times. As they give into the chemistry that’s when the emotional side of the story comes into play. They are explosive. Hot doesn’t even begin to discribe what these two do to each other. When one doesn’t want to believe in love and then realizes they’re in love that’s some emotional turmoil in the making. The way Harry stands by EJ, shows her support and is there for her, even after a heated argument shows what kind of man Harry is. Even if he does do the man thing. Men! EJ learns for herself what love can be and is. Slow Harry help pull away some of those layers of hurt and replaced them with happiness.
Luscious is what I love in my romance reads. Fun and sexy. Emotional and heated. Good characters with great personalities. Harry and EJ will knock your socks off. Bold and brazen and a healthy dose of dirty talk. You will love Harry by the time you read the end. Luscious is just that, a truly luscious read!
Warning: This book will trigger your need for something very sweet.
Review: A Little Harmless Lie by Melissa Schroeder
A Little Harmless Lie
Melissa Schroeder
Harmless Series, Book 4
Falling for her might be easy, seducing her may be damned hard, but keeping her alive might just be deadly.
Coming from nothing, Micah Ross now has more than he knows what to do with. His Hawaii BDSM club is flourishing, and he has his pick of women. Except one. Dee Sumners is cute, sexy, feisty…and, since she’s on his payroll, off-limits. Plus, she insists she isn’t into the life. Until one heated kiss hints that his head bartender secretly hungers to be his sub.
Life on the run doesn’t allow Dee to indulge in long-term relationships. Still, Micah manages to work his way through her tough armor and under her skin. Yet even as she succumbs to his skilled seduction, her survival instinct forms a plan to leave the island she has grown to love—and the man she’s in danger of loving.
When Dee disappears, Micah’s anger turns to fear when he realizes she didn’t leave willingly. Calling on his skills as a former bounty hunter, he tracks her to the mainland only to discover she is entangled in a web of lies and deceit that not only threatens their love, but her life.
Warning: This book contains more Hawaiian settings, a Native American Dom who always thinks he’s right, a woman on the run, sexy kisses, murderous relatives, a trip to Sin City, and a seduction that is sweet and hot and everything in between. Ice water and a towel are recommended while reading.
This book is a reissue and has not been substantially changed.
4.5 Stars
Suspenseful and sexy from beginning to end.
Micah Ross will make any woman melt. Tall and built with a body for sin. A total alpha and amazing Dom with hair I wish I could run my fingers through. A strong man and natural protector, Micah crosses his own lines when his head bartender can’t seem to leave his head. There is something about Micah that will make you swoon, big time.
Dee Summers had it all until witnessing event that change her life forever. Ten years on the run has had a brave woman never settling down and changing her name too many times. Dee is strong will and courageous. The love the spunk of this woman. She’s bold and daring while trying to stay under the radar. Something or someone has this woman on the run lingering longer than what a smart girl should.
Highly entertaining with the perfect level of intensity. Micah and Dee are one of my favorite couples of the Harmless series. I love the dynamic and intensity that these two share. Micah and Dee both have amazing personalities and character traits that make you fall in love with them. One of things I love about Melissa’s work, is that you get to know her characters so well through the course of the story. You see and learn their flaws and strengths like you would a friend in real life. It adds so much personality and depth to the story. Ms. Schroeder balances the suspense and romance perfectly. Keeping this reader on the edge of the seat throughout the entire story. Micah and Dee so much chemistry and tension brewing and buzzing, that once acted upon this pure combustion. A Little Harmless Lie is the perfect way to get lost in paradise.
A copy of this title was provided for an honest review.
ARC Review: The Boss by Melissa Schroeder
The Boss
Sick of the spy game, former CIA operative Vic Walker takes time off from his security firm to figure out just what he wants out of life. But peace and quiet isn’t in the cards with a former business partner and ex-lover like MacKenzie Donovan.
Mac doesn’t like asking for help from anyone, but this latest case has her in a little over her head. She crashes back into Vic’s life with the CIA, the Russian Mob, and the FBI, on her tail after a job goes south.
But even as old feelings rise to the surface while they’re busy dodging bullets, the authorities, and mobsters, they’ll need to get out alive before they can have a second chance at love.
4.5 Stars
Melissa Schroeder rocks romantic suspense!
Mac is tenacious, a force all her own and resourceful woman. Vic is a total alpha man. He’s got the smarts and all the looks, but can’t seem to get his mouth and his brain to work together. Vic and Mac are combustible in every way. Former lovers, business partners and each other’s match in every way. Both alphas, hard headed and willing to do what it takes to get the job done. Mac and Vic tangle each emotions like no other. The trust they share is an oddity is the spy game. The passion they share just adds fuel to the fire leaving them breathless to one another.
Melissa Schroeder’s The Boss is a fast paced, well written, character driven romantic suspense. I was entertained from beginning to end. The Boss keeps readers on their toes with fun and equine characters, lots of action and a nice plot twist or two. I love second chance stories. Vic and Mac put each other through the ringer and still want each other. Now to make it work. I definitely recommend The Boss to anyone who loves a fast-paced romantic suspense.
A review copy was provided by netgalley.
ARC Review: Tangled Passions by Melissa Schroeder
Tangled Passions
Melissa Schroeder
Task Force Hawaii, Book 4
Task Force Hawaii, Book 4
The last person Drew Franklin wants to work with is Cat Kalakau. Their history makes it difficult being in the same room, let alone being joined at the hip during a case. Months ago, they’d shared a night filled with romance and a bit more, but that ended after he was shot. Since then, even their friendship seems to have fallen apart. But he will do his job, even if spending more time with her is killing him.
Working with Drew every day reminds Cat she’s to blame for his injury. It doesn’t matter that she wants him more than her next breath, or that every time he looks at her she melts into a puddle of lust. She needs to resist her own desires to protect him as they hunt a serial killer targeting wealthy men signed up for dating services.
Soon though, their time together proves to be too much. One fight leads to a kiss, which leads to so much more. Neither of them is prepared for the overwhelming need they have for each other or the connection they seem to have. But when Cat realizes Drew is the object of the killer’s obsession, she will do anything to protect him even if it means sacrificing her life for his
4 Stars
Tangled Passions, the fourth book of Melissa Schroeder’s Task Force Hawaii series, is a humorous, sexy and emotional read that has you guessing until the end.
Cat and Drew’s story was highly anticipated for me. These two have been playing at a game of sexual tension for many books now. Cat is a strong woman with an even bigger personality. Drew is one of those rare, hard to find, good men. The chemistry these two create is more than intense. Denying their feelings has only made it worse. Seeing them finally give in to the attraction and feelings, wanting something more than a night or two, was magical. Cat and Drew are intense, in every way. Their personalities are big, they’re passionate scorching. They truly to make the perfect couple.
Melissa Schroeder takes the reader to paradise once again while keeping them guessing with the turn of every page. Perfectly blending romance and suspense, in a setting that is absolute breathtaking, while keeping the reader on their toes with the plot that’s turning. Tangled Passions is well worth spending a few hours in Hawaii. Suspense done right and steamy hot passion, 5 Stars!!!!
A copy of this title was provided for an honest review.
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