Beneath, part of a new prequel trilogy to last year’s Conform, is an excellent post-apocalyptic action romance with a crew of likable and diverse characters.

This book is set years and years before Conform, shortly after nuclear war has devastated Earth. You won’t find the 1984/Brave New World dystopian world of Conform here; instead, it’s a gritty, desperate struggle for survival underground.

Sasha, the FMC, has a lot of trauma, and she’s a superb shot and knows how to fight. Tristian, the love interest, is commander of a military unit; while physically strong, he also shows emotional intelligence and a gentle side. The cast is rounded out with Sasha and Tristian’s teammates, all of whom are distinct and you’ll root for them (though tbh, I still don’t know how I feel about Patrick or Isla).

There are plot twists and strong character development. The story isn’t quite as unique as Conform’s, but the characters feel much more human. If I had any criticism to give, it would be that there are frequent and heavy-handed references to the “beast” within Sasha that causes her to lash out and separate herself. I personally prefer a little more nuance and complexity in the writing.

I can’t wait for the next book in the series. I love it much more than comps like Silver Elite or To Cage a Wild Bird, so give it a try if you enjoy dystopian romance.

*I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

A heavy but moving romance, even if you haven’t read the rest of the series (I haven’t).

The beautiful cover caught my eye, and then the synopsis sealed the deal for me. The narrative flips between past and present, and between the POVs of the FMC and MMC, Paloma and Bennett. Through these woven threads, we see the deep love develop between Paloma and Bennett, and we witness the tragedy of what ended their relationship. It has some truly brutal, heartbreaking moments. The parts with other women/other men were just gut-wrenching when you know how much these characters care for each other.

Though I was new to this book series (and author), I didn’t feel like I was missing any critical information when reading the story. If anything, it was the song references that threw me off a bit, though that’s just a personal preference - I don’t like recommended playlists or music references in the story unless they’re significant to the plot.

The book does seem a tad too long, but otherwise, it’s an excellent hockey romance for readers who like melodrama and darker themes. Be sure to check trigger warnings.

*I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

Every Summer After, but make it diverse and with no hot older brother. In fact, I liked this even more than Every Summer After.

You've got all the fixtures of a summer second chance romance: an idyllic Canadian lakeside small town during summer, and childhood friends to lovers to completely estranged to...

This book isn't afraid to delve into some tough topics like the pressure from immigrant parents and intercultural dating and (spoiler). Lia is a sympathetic FMC, as is Wes, the MMC, although he's less developed, this being single first-person POV. Don't expect spice and a sizzling romance; the relationship is more slow-burning and built upon a deep friendship. There is also a focus on the FMC's relationship with her sister and her parents, and commentary on corporate burnout.

A signature Lorraine Heath romance with a truly bonkers plot. This is histrom with angst and melodrama, not something light and comedic. They just don't make them like this anymore.

Stephanie Archer is the ultimate queen of sports romance.

Even when she tackles tropes I normally dislike - age gap and single dad, in this case - I'm hooked by the story, the characters, and the journey she takes us on.

THE WILD CARD is most rewarding if you've read the previous books in the series, though it's not necessary. You get lots of appearances from past Vancouver Storm characters, a wedding, a huge milestone for the team, and an epilogue 5 years in the future.

Tate Ward, the MMC, is very much in control, jealous, and loves buying things for the FMC, Jordan. Jordan is more of a grumpy, shy black cat to Tate's golden retriever. The page count is a tad high on this one, and their relationship is more of a slow burn, but it makes sense for them.

I wish this series could go on! Luca and Briar, mayhaps?

*I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.