New Romance Reads You Need: My ARC Haul + First Impressions
It’s Been a Crazy Month: Life Updates and ARCs Galore!
It’s been literally a month since I last posted. Let me tell you, it’s been a crazy one. From highs to lows, it feels like this month has been a whirlwind.
The Ups and Downs: A Month of Unexpected Twists
The good parts? I’ve read some of the most amazing ARCs! The bad parts?
Well, let’s just say I’ve had to take three of my kids to the hospital for different reasons.
We’ve been to the hospital and doctors more this month than we have in the last 14 years. Seriously, universe, can I catch a break? 😅
Focusing on the Good: Reading to the Rescue
But enough about the chaos! Let’s focus on the bright side — reading and listening to books. They always make me happy and help me unwind like nothing else.
There’s something truly magical about losing yourself in a story, especially when you get to experience it before everyone else.
This month, I’ve been so lucky to dive into so many amazing new releases and upcoming books. I can’t wait to share all the feels with you!
A Stack of ARCs and Emotions
This month has been full of unforgettable stories. I’ve tackled an impressive stack of books, many of them ARCs I was fortunate enough to get my hands on early.
And let me tell you, it’s been an emotional rollercoaster. I’ve laughed, cried, and swooned my way through these stories, and there’s no feeling quite like getting swept away by a good book.
Feeling Grateful: A Behind-the-Scenes Look at ARC Reading
I feel incredibly fortunate that so many talented authors trust me with their work.
It’s such an honor to be one of the first to experience these stories and share my thoughts with you all.
The best part of reading ARCs, for me, is the connection I get to make with both the characters and the authors.
It’s like being part of an exclusive club before the book hits shelves, and that feeling never gets old.
30 Books in One Month: Was It Hard? Yes. Worth It? Absolutely!
This month alone, I’ve read/listened to about 30 books! Yes, 30! Was it a lot?
You bet! Was it tough to keep up? Definitely. But am I sorry? Heck no! Every single page, every chapter, every audiobook chapter was totally worth it.
What’s Coming Next: Stay Tuned for Reviews!
Now, I’m ready to dive into reviews for some of my absolute favorites from this batch.
Stay tuned for those, because trust me, you’ll want these books on your TBR list!
🔥 Book Recommendation: Breaking You Open by Ally Avery 🔥

A Gripping Age-Gap Romance You Won’t Forget
If you’re craving an age-gap MM romance that will get under your skin and keep you hooked, Breaking You Open is a must-read.
This is one of those stories that pulls you in with its raw intensity and doesn’t let go.
Sparrow’s Struggles: A Broken Soul Looking for a Way Out
Sparrow is a young guy who’s been through more than his fair share of heartache. After a chance encounter with Louis, a smoking-hot older biker, things take a turn in ways Sparrow never expected.
What starts as a night of rescue quickly becomes complicated as Louis pulls away, and Sparrow is forced to confront a past he’s been running from for far too long.
Louis’s Internal Battle: The Protector Who Doesn’t Feel Like One
But here’s the twist: Louis doesn’t think he’s the right guy for Sparrow. He’s seen too much darkness in his own life, and he’s convinced he can’t offer Sparrow the protection he needs.
Despite his doubts, when Sparrow shows up on his doorstep, bruised and desperate for refuge, Louis can’t turn him away.
The chemistry between them is undeniable, and the attraction is more than just physical — it’s a connection neither can ignore.
The Raw and Emotional Journey Ahead
What follows is a whirlwind of tension, passion, and self-discovery as these two broken men try to find their way to each other.
This story isn’t for the faint of heart; it’s messy, painful, and heart-wrenching in all the right ways.
But if you love characters who are beautifully flawed and a romance that builds from vulnerability and trust, Breaking You Open will have you hooked from the first page.
Trigger Warnings and Content Advisory
🚨 Trigger Warnings: Explicit content and sensitive themes that may be upsetting to some readers. Please check the Author’s Note for details.
Final Thoughts: A Must-Read for Fans of Intense Romance
If you’re a fan of age-gap romances with deep emotional layers, this book is one you won’t want to miss.
It’s not just about the passion between the characters — it’s about healing, protection, and ultimately, learning to trust again.
Trust me, Breaking You Open will keep you up late reading, heart racing and all.
Are you ready for a story about second chances, redemption, and the fire between two men who couldn’t be more different yet perfectly matched? Breaking You Open is a must-read for fans of intense age-gap dynamics and scorching chemistry. ❤️🔥
Breaking You Open is available now on Kindle Unlimited and Amazon
This is my review to this page turner.
5⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Wow. This story was pretty heavy. Sparrow and Louis were both broken souls in need of love and self acceptance.
Sparrow’s story with his foster brother is one that’s unfortunately way too common. The lack of attention and love lead him to believe that what was happening with him and Aaron was love.
I’m so happy Aaron got what he deserved.
“Are you watching him?” I ask, back turned to Aaron. “Yeah,” Louis grunts. “Yeah, I’m watching the little fucker. I’m gonna make him watch your a$$ drip with my c⭐️m.”
That scene seriously made swoon!
Louis’s story wasn’t that different either. Coming from a house of abuse, it was only normal for him to harbor so much anger and resentment.
He dealt with it the best he could and his fear of not being good enough for Sparrow was understandable. They both had baggage that was easier to carry once they allowed themselves to be together.
Their love for each other helped them deal with all the trauma they both suffered. This was a story of survival and dealing with the crappy hand life dealt them the best way they could.
I hope you add Breaking You Open a chance because it’s a beautiful and healing story that shows up that there’s always light at the end of the tunnel. Make sure you check out Getting Twisted, book one of the series.
And since you’ve read this far, check out my other recs and previous ARCs I’ve done here.
Until next time! Happy reading.