I liked how these guys get together and how Kyle’s perception and treatment of Brent changes. Kyle comes across in a better light here, so by the end of the story I’d grown to like him. We are treated to a few of CC’s trademark steamy scenes.

Cleverly written and wonderfully portrayed another all round happy feeling story for the holiday period. This book is really about second chances and realizing your opportunities when they present themselves and grasping on to them. ... I enjoyed this story a lot. It has a strong message that life is too precious to throw away and you should enjoy every day and take joy in the things you have.

Book 2 in the Mates series, just as quickly devoured by this reader as the first one, tells the story of Ethan Abbatt, a young wolf shifter who can't shift, and Miguel Rodriguez, a centuries old, powerful vampire...Prejudice is explored quite well in this novel, and could be liked to interracial relationships - the comparison is most apt.....The first time mating was super hot, but also extremely emotional, as I've come to expect from this author, and as a reader I will always feel as if the moment is sacred and special. The connection between mates is cemented upon the first love making, and this was no different here. Ethan may have been from a small Georgia town, and he wasn't a learned man, which is expressed in his speech and mannerisms, but he's no dummy. And Miguel, despite being as old as he is, still has things he can learn from Ethan - it's a good thing Miguel is no dummy either, and once he gets over his initial disbelief, he's fiercely protective, something the other vampires and anyone who tries to cross or hurt Ethan should have heeded. I loved how the author explored the meaning of family, and how love is stronger than prejudice. The main villain in this book gets what's coming to him, and all is well that ends well. Honest communication and great dialogue rounded out a super awesome story that I liked almost as much as the first one.

McFarland's Farm by Cardeno C. is a light, angst free novella. The story has very little conflict and when misunderstandings do arise, they are quickly resolved. The characters are well-developed with realistic insecurities and flaws. The romance is believable and the sex scenes are incredibly hot. All in all, it is a wonderful first installment in the Hope series that will leave fans eagerly awaiting future releases.