Reviewed by Angelique Papayannopoulos for Readers' Favorite

Francesca Vespa's Seven Perfect Days chronicles the story of Maggie as she navigates her complicated life from high school into her late twenties. A tragic event has been haunting her for years and has been causing emotional turmoil for some time, while her eccentric friend Alex tends to be unstable and energy-draining. The friendship is further strained when Alex learns a secret Maggie withheld from her. Amid her chaotic life, a trip overseas brings her renewed hope. As Maggie struggles with self-discovery, she always seems to fall in love with gay boys. Traveling to exotic locations, she meets new people and develops new friendships, as well as sexual encounters. Then Maggie meets Adam Moon, a kindred soul from the Maldives, who is as messed up as she is. But, due to political unrest on the island, Adam goes missing. An intriguing love interest seems to be blossoming, but is this the right time to pursue it?

An enthralling novel of friendship and betrayal, Seven Perfect Days explores the bonds of friendship and loyalty. The novel has a character-driven plot, featuring a cast of complex yet intriguing characters who draw you into their world. Francesca Vespa's narrative is a balanced blend of dark drama, emotions, humor, and wittiness. While the narrative is almost memoir-like and poetic, it is fascinating and engaging to read. Despite some parts seeming drawn out, the reader will be absorbed in the subsequent events. Seven Perfect Days is a heartwarming and heartbreaking story woven together with themes of friendship, betrayal, and forgiveness. You'll enjoy this book if you like humorous dramas full of emotional rollercoasters and culture shocks, and are open-minded about gay relationships and sexual content. I was pleasantly surprised and enjoyed the ride!

Reviewed by Essien Asian for Readers' Favorite

Shanon O'Connell has barely recovered from a heartbreaking relationship; now she must watch one of her closest friends and fellow group member, Linda, painfully lose her battle with cancer and exit their group, which they affectionately call 'the tribe.' Trying to put on a brave face in their group, which has been together for over three decades, they gather at one of Linda's favorite venues to honor her life and memory, reminiscing about what was and what could have been. The last thing Shanon expects is that this gathering might be the catalyst for her to find one last chance at love with fellow tribe member Elizabeth Matthews. Only time will tell if they can overcome the emotional and physical barriers between them in Kathleen Brehony's The Third Act.

Kathleen Brehony's urban romance explores love in the twilight years. The character development reveals each tribe member's background while highlighting this web of friends and how their unique connections strengthen the group. The moments when Shanon reminisces about her relationship with Linda, contrasting it with the circumstances that led to her meeting Elizabeth, perfectly illustrate this. The dialogue is casual and filled with lighthearted, mildly comedic episodes, such as the Jell-O Cool Whip incident, which coincide with slower moments in the story. These stylishly crafted scenes lighten the tone as readers enjoy the antics of these senior citizens. The narrative shifts between Shanon's and Elizabeth's perspectives, helping readers better understand key aspects of the plot, like the intriguing connection between mediums and matters of the heart. Brehony's narrative style reminds readers that The Third Act is primarily a romance, featuring sexual encounters that leave little to the imagination. Brehony weaves drama, romance, and humor into a contemporary setting that many readers will find relatable, creating a unique novel.

Reviewed by K.C. Finn for Readers' Favorite

Better Than Sex (San Francisco Sex Gods Book 1) by Kit Erikson is a fun, emotional LGBTQ+ romance about self-discovery, love, and figuring out what really matters. Spencer, a confident 'sex god,' has one goal—complete his 'F*-it List' before he turns thirty. But when he meets Mickey, a shy and inexperienced romantic, things don’t go as planned. Mickey agrees to a confidence-boosting makeover, but in the process, he ends up changing Spencer just as much. What starts as a playful challenge slowly turns into something real, full of humor, vulnerability, and unexpected feelings. As Mickey learns to believe in himself on his journey, we see Spencer facing his fears about love and commitment. The story is set in San Francisco, and the city is just as important as the characters, with detailed descriptions of local spots, neighborhoods, and the vibrant LGBTQ+ community.

Kit Erikson has a way with dialogue—it’s sharp, funny, and full of personality, making the characters realistic from the start. The chemistry between Spencer and Mickey is undeniable, making every interaction sizzle, whether it’s playful banter or a more tender moment. I loved how the author layers this steamy romance with deeper themes like self-worth and identity, making sure the emotional connection is just as important as the attraction for a fully rounded story. Both characters grow in a way that is natural thanks to the author's talent for dialogue and realistic storytelling. The side characters are just as great, adding humor and heartwarming moments to the plot while also showing how important chosen family is for the LGBTQ+ community. The conflicts in the plot come from real fears and flaws, making the romance even more satisfying as Spencer and Mickey work through them. Overall, Better Than Sex is a heartwarming, sexy, and addictive start to the series. It's a book I recommend, and I can’t wait to see what comes next.

Reviewed by K.C. Finn for Readers' Favorite

The Photograph by Eve M. Riley, the fourth book in The Techboys series, is a contemporary LGBTQ romance that follows the journey of two men navigating trust, desire, and the risks of opening up. When a chance meeting leads to an exchange of photographs, an undeniable attraction forms between them. As they grow closer, secrets from Alex's past surface, testing the strength of their connection. With a mix of hope and vulnerability, both men must decide whether to let their pasts dictate their futures or embrace a love that offers a chance for healing and new beginnings.

Author Eve M. Riley demonstrates remarkable skill in crafting a romance that delves deep beneath the surface of attraction to explore the complexities of trust and vulnerability. Her writing creates moments of both passionate chemistry and tender intimacy that feel genuine and earned. I really enjoyed the dialogue of the two central characters which sets them apart in attitude and energy but brings them together with brilliant wit, honesty, and love. I was particularly touched by how Riley develops both protagonists with equal care, making their individual journeys of growth as compelling as their shared romance and letting us see how they bring out hidden qualities in one another. The way she integrates themes of healing and self-discovery into the narrative elevates the story beyond typical romance conventions. Something that really resonated with me was the sensitive handling of past trauma and its impact on new relationships, creating a story that feels both honest and hopeful about the possibility of love after pain. Overall, The Photograph is a beautifully crafted romance that will deeply satisfy both fans of the series and newcomers alike, and I would certainly recommend it.

Reviewed by Shrabastee Chakraborty for Readers' Favorite

Never in his wildest dreams did Mat imagine inheriting a manor. Yet, he was now the owner of a vast and ornate, if a little peculiar, mansion. The entire business was somewhat bizarre, including the lawyer’s office that seemed to materialize out of nowhere and the entrance to the locality that kept eluding newcomers. The stipulation that he had to bring two friends with him sounded odd, too. However, these were minor issues compared to the nosy chairperson and the outlandish rules of the homeowner’s association. How will Mat, Frankie, and August fare in their new residence? What happens when they come across a magical tome? To find out, read Mandrake Manor, the first book of the Henbane Hollow series by J. P. Rindfleisch.

This novel, bursting with magic and mayhem, transports readers to an extraordinary world. In this place where magic lurks in every nook and cranny, nothing is as it seems, and every day brings a memorable adventure. Alongside the unsuspecting trio, we come across mind-blowing surprises and participate in complicated rituals. The ingenious chapter titles and introductory verses further add to the charm. The soulful and quirky characters filled me with joy. Their continuous banter and double entendre enlivened the story. I loved how J. P. Rindfleisch gave each friend a satisfying romantic subplot. Despite having some formidably dark characters and unforeseen twists, the book exudes a feel-good vibe. With tales of friendship, love, and betrayal, Mandrake Manor is a whimsical and delightful read. I recommend it to anyone who appreciates a magical LGBTQ+ book.

Reviewed by Jamie Michele for Readers' Favorite

In The Significant by Kyra Anderson, a precarious living situation has Kailynn experiencing the aftermath of a night of heavy drinking with her roommate, Raphael. Despite her challenging circumstances, she prefers this life over illicit activities in a wealthier district. Her brother, Theo, proposes a risky plan involving a stolen Elite's ID card to shut down the planet's central control system, Venus. Kailynn cautiously agrees. They infiltrate a warehouse to execute the mission, facing uncertain outcomes. After escaping the Ninth Circle, she hides in Raphael's apartment, narrating her evasion of the guards. Desperate to save Theo, Kailynn adopts a new identity and works as a Significant, offering companionship to the wealthy. Her connection with Elite Isa deepens as she accepts an unusual job opportunity. However, their relationship faces scrutiny, and events take a dangerous turn when Isa falls victim to a Pulse Virus attack and Kailynn must decide where her loyalties really lie.

I did not know what to expect going into The Significant by Kyra Anderson, but boy, am I glad I took a chance on Anderson and her protagonist, Kailynn. I love stories where the lines between what a character thinks they want and what they end up desperate to get are blurred. I also enjoy storylines where women are able to fully explore their sexuality, and Anderson gives us a little bit of everything in Kailynn's arc. Isa is something of an enigma when we first meet, but as Anderson slowly unfurls the plot, we are able to find out where the Elite stand and where Kailynn falls into all of it. The world-building is spectacular, as is the social structure. Kailynn's status is eerily reminiscent of real-world scenarios and the lengths a person is willing to go to for the security of their family. Kailynn's evolution is believable, and in a genre-bending dystopian, that is a testament to Anderson's skill as a writer. The sizzle is pitch-perfect, and there is plenty of room for the journey to go, including prequels. I hope to find more of Anderson's work in the future. Very highly recommended.

Reviewed by Carol Thompson for Readers' Favorite

Falkirk: Of Shadows & Secrets Book 2 by Casey Morales delivers a riveting blend of espionage, romance, and wartime tension that will keep you on the edge of your seat. Set against the backdrop of occupied France during World War II, the novel follows the journey of Will and Thomas, newly recruited agents of America’s Office of Strategic Services (OSS). Tasked with aiding the French Resistance and disrupting enemy operations, Will and Thomas are thrust into a dangerous world where every step could mean discovery by the Nazi regime. Their bond deepens amid the chaos and danger, navigating the complexities of love and the horrors of war. The author explores the characters’ challenges, questioning whether love can endure in such dire circumstances.

Falkirk has many characters; however, the author provides a character glossary to help readers track who’s who. Each character is well-developed, with Will and Thomas standing out as multifaceted protagonists whose vulnerabilities and strengths are equally explored. Each chapter is told from a different POV, with most in the voice of Thomas and Will but also Strumbannfuhrer Jyrgen Vogt, a Nazi SS officer. Casey Morales doesn’t disappoint, using tension and urgency throughout the narrative. The action sequences vividly depict each scene, immersing readers in the protagonists’ dangers. At the same time, the story’s emotional core stays strong, focusing on the resilience of love and the sacrifices demanded by war and duty. For fans of LGBTQ fiction, espionage thrillers, and gripping wartime dramas, this novel is a must-read.

Reviewed by Rabia Tanveer for Readers' Favorite

The Sound of Her Smile: A Jensy Willett Novel by Sara Scott is the second novel in the series where Jensy grows through the highs and lows of life. Jensy made a huge mistake, and Sophie was devastated. The mistake was enough to break them apart, but somehow, they persevered. Neither Sophie nor Jensy was perfect, but they were ready to look past their mistakes and try to rebuild their lives once again. It wasn’t easy for Sophie to forgive Jensy, but she did, and the couple was working toward happiness once more. However, their world came crashing down when something terrible happened and threatened to tear them apart again. When tragedy struck at Jensy’s school, and everything seemed lost, the couple was reminded why they loved each other so much. When the going got tough, Jensy and Sophie understood what was most important for them.

I adored this novel. The Sound of Her Smile was everything I loved and wanted from an entertaining story. It had action, emotions, strong characters, a good plot, plenty of twists, and fantastic descriptions to keep me hooked until the end. I loved the name of the story; it felt very beautiful and poetic to me. I picked it up solely for that reason. However, once I'd finished the prologue, I was very glad I chose this book. Jensy was a strong woman, but it was Sophie who gave her the strength to be better. Sophie was the light of the story, and I fell in love with her immediately. Jensy was complex, while Sophie was an open book. They complemented each other incredibly well. Their relationship was soothing, it felt real, and I was enthralled by their story. The pace was fast, and author Sara Scott made sure her readers were settled in nicely with the characters before she let the chaos begin (I loved that!). I highly recommend this series.

Reviewed by Emily Maynard for Readers' Favorite

Ellie Fisher is a nurse in the Emergency Department of Kansas City Hospital. She is bubbly, friendly, and a true romantic. In contrast, Dr Regina Novak is sarcastic, standoffish, and cynical; she even has the nickname Dr McIcy. It's not exactly a match made in heaven. When another doctor persuades Regina to become “Bachelorette Number Twelve” at a charity auction, and Ellie fortuitously becomes the highest bidder, the pair are thrown together for four contractual pre-agreed dates. Their eventful first date brings them back to the Emergency Department where they work, which could definitely be seen as a bad omen. Still, under fraught circumstances, they each see a different, more vulnerable side of the other, sharing things about their personal lives that change their perceptions of one another and bring them together in unexpected empathy. Bachelorette Number Twelve by Jae follows Ellie and Regina at work and on their dates and the progression of their unlikely connection.

Bachelorette Number Twelve is a highly compelling, easy-to-read romance. Ellie and Regina have strikingly different personalities but are both relatable and likable in their own ways. They undergo significant character development throughout the story, individually and together, and the reader shares their journey as they navigate their thoughts and feelings toward each other. The story progresses at a leisurely pace, allowing the reader to relish each chapter, with some focusing on a date or event, and others relaying a conversation or interaction. There are some difficult themes, including grief and loss, misplaced guilt, and drug use. Jae has woven these beautifully into the story so that the reader is aware of them, and the emotional responses they cause, but not so intensely that it detracts from the story itself. I found Bachelorette Number Twelve to be irresistible, a book I couldn’t help but read just one more chapter (again and again). It’s humorous and heartwarming, but also at times raw and heartbreaking. It is a great read from start to finish, and I thoroughly enjoyed it. I look forward to the next installment! I’d highly recommend this book to any fans of romance or LGBTQ+ fiction, or anyone interested in exploring these genres. I would advise caution for younger audiences as there are a couple of spicy scenes.

Reviewed by Maria Victoria Beltran for Readers' Favorite

Chasing Liberty by Isabella is an engaging novel where the main characters identify as LGBTQ. Liberty “Libby” Chase, an uncompromising cop, witnesses a car accident and goes to the aid of the victim, Morgan Pierce, an attractive and successful corporate lawyer. Further investigation reveals that the almost fatal crash was caused by tampering with the brakes of Morgan’s car, making it clear that someone wants her dead and that her life is in danger. Libby is a lesbian and is attracted to Morgan who is unhappily married to David. Not yet completely out as a lesbian, Morgan also has feelings for Libby. As they explore their relationship, they also have to work together to figure out who wants Morgan dead. Can they solve the case before it’s too late?

Isabella’s Chasing Liberty has all the elements of a romance novel. Two people meet, they fall in love, and something prevents them from getting together. What makes this story fascinating is its compelling cast and the things they have to overcome to be united in the end. The novel is fast-paced and well-written. The author’s vivid description of the blossoming romance between Morgan and Liberty is sensual. The narrative does not dwell on the stresses and social issues of gay people, their lives, and their struggles. Liberty and Morgan fall in love with each other as if it’s the most natural thing to do. Unlike most LGBTQ novels, the book does not deal with the need for validation and understanding, which is surprisingly refreshing.