An author in Australia is facing charges over depictions of pedophilia in her novel after the internet labeled the material as “child abuse,” however, the woman has defended herself claiming that it’s all a “big misunderstanding.”

The book caught the attention of people online earlier this week, namely the corner of TikTok known as “BookTok.” Many condemned the book for the incredibly controversial premise which sees a “barely-legal” 18 year old fall in love with her father’s friend who has desired the protagonist since the age of three.

Lauren Tesolin-Mastrosa wrote the book under the pen-name Tori Woods, and upon its release she received backlash from a mob of readers. 

Many authors have received hate from the internet for controversial material but this is another level, even the novel’s title “Daddy’s Little Toy” seems to meld ideas of a sexual nature with infantilization in a way that is unsettling. The cover design doesn’t help with the title being spelled out in children’s toy blocks against a pink background. 

Lauren’s arrest

The New South Wales police reportedly began investigating the author after receiving “reports of a fiction novel containing child abuse material.” Detectives arrested Tesolin-Mastrosa at her home in Western Sydney on Friday reports the Independent.

The home was searched and several copies of the book confiscated for forensic examination while the 33-year-old woman was “charged with [possessing] child abuse material, [disseminating] child abuse material and [producing] child abuse material.” She was later granted bail and is expected to appear before Blacktown Local Court on Monday March 31st.

Upon her release from jail the author took to social media to defend herself and her work from the accusations. She claimed that it was a “big misunderstanding,” and that the book “is definitely not promoting or inciting anything ever to do with (child sexual abuse) or paedophilia.”

She also stressed that the story depicted was purely fictional but that she understood why certain aspects of it were being “frowned upon.” The book has since been removed from platforms such as Amazon and Goodreads and Tesolin-Mastrosa has deactivated her social media s.

Responses to the book

The response to the book has been negative to say the least. The uncomfortable promotional material was enough to anger most people, TikToker @AuntKaren0 didn’t mince words when talking about it.

In the comments one person wrote “Lucy’s not even written to ACT 18. She’s full on written like a child. The paedophilia is so transparent.” The responses were pretty similar all over the internet.

Many also took issue with the individuals who had a hand in the novel’s existence, such as the designer responsible for cover art claiming she knew what she was doing. However, the designer, who’s name is Georgia Stove, denies any knowledge, “All I had known about the book was the blurb which read “barely legal” and in my mind I truly thought that was okay.”

It’s also been confirmed that Tesolin-Mastrosa lost her job as a result of the backlash. She was reportedly let go from her Marketing Executive role at the Christian organisation BaptistCare on March 20th.

Jodi Picoult‘s books are beautifully written, fast-paced stories about love, family, friendship, and resilience. And now the beloved author is adding her (wise) opinion to the frustrating “keep politics off BookTok” conversation that has occurred after the 2024 U.S. election.

In a brilliant TikTok, Picoult said people have said she should “stick to my books and not be so political in my videos. So today I’m just gonna stick to my books.” She picked up Mad Honey and said, “This is my book about trans rights.” She then said of Nineteen Minutes, “This is my book about a school shooting.” She explained that her other books are about eugenics, racism and white supremacy, the Holocaust, abortion and reproductive rights, the death penalty, and “discrimination against women in the arts.” She ended her video by asking, “What was that you were saying">the incredibly important need for trans rights. Picoult and Boylan merged a fast-paced tale that reads like a thriller and also explores all the painful stereotypes and hate that still occur today. I will never forget Mad Honey, and isn’t that the whole point?

As a Picoult fan since I was a teenager, I’d argue her books deal with what’s relevant today, and that’s always going to include political topics. The first book of hers I read was The Pact about Chris, who has been accused of murdering his girlfriend Emily. But did they make a suicide pact? That’s so much weightier than your typical teen drama and, like Nineteen Minutes about a brutal school shooting and My Sister’s Keeper about a sibling coming of age while her sister has cancer, stuck with me. I’m going to keep reading Picoult’s, yes, political books, and I’m not the only one.

Keke Palmer is currently on the press tour for her latest book, Master of Me, and during a stop at People, she opened up about a problematic relationship she experienced as a teenager.

Palmer is one of the most versatile artists of her generation. She’s an Emmy-winning television personality, she can lead a summer blockbuster like Nope, and she’s a celebrated singer in her own right. But before all of that, Palmer cut her teeth as a Nickelodeon child actor, and being in that situation, it was easy to feel more mature than she actually was. Her dating life reflected that, as she explained, “I was trying to balance between being really young but also feeling quite mature. If I thought it was inappropriate, then I wouldn’t have done it. Obviously, I shouldn’t have been 15 dating no 20-year-old.”

She went on to detail that relationship, saying it lasted five years before they finally parted ways. Because she was earning a full-time salary, she thought a fellow teenager could never understand her reality, but now she realizes she was wrong.

Palmer has had a few public fallouts with the men in her life. One of the first was with R&B artist Trey Songz, whom Palmer once claimed invited her to a party and, unbeknownst to her, turned the event into an impromptu video shoot, which led her to press charges. More recently, Palmer clashed with her ex and father of her child, Darius Jackson, after she attended an Usher residency in Las Vegas. Jackson criticized her outfit on Twitter, and later Palmer accused Jackson of domestic violence and sought a restraining order.

Master of Me is about Palmer finding healing through the rubble of what has gone wrong in her life. One aspect she addresses is finding some form of resolution with Jackson. Speaking of her teenage relationship, Palmer noted its lasting negative impact, and credited Jackson with making her feel genuinely loved, saying he actually respected her.

Palmer and Jackson have come a long way, but that’s not to say they have rekindled their relationship. During her press tour, Palmer shared that she’s single and ready to mingle, mentioning that her type leans more toward a “nerdy” personality, similar to the character Steve Urkel from Family Matters. Our “nerdy” readers should appreciate that, as they rarely get much attention in pop culture.

Experiences where a young person is taken advantage of can have lasting effects, often leading to cynicism toward life and love. Many young people in such situations feel mature and special, only to carry guilt and shame later on. Seeing Palmer’s journey of conquering her past and learning from it is inspiring, and her book offers fans a chance to learn from her lessons. Master of Me is set to be released on November 19, 2024, and will be essential reading for Keke Palmer fans, especially those who grew up watching her on Nickelodeon. This will be Palmer’s second book, following her 2017 release, I Don’t Belong to You.

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Granted, age-gap romance stories aren’t for everyone. The controversial subgenre has its loyal fans, and those who wouldn’t be caught dead picking them up. Nonetheless, they remain one of the most popular subgenres of romance.

Just as the name implies, these stories feature an older character with a younger one, and as you can expect, sometimes there are power plays involved.  But not all age-gap romance books are the same. Here are 10 that range from steamy to wholesome, covering a plethora of other subgenres, from comedy to thriller. 

10. Love Hacked by Penny Reid

Love Hacked is a hilarious romantic comedy about Sandra, a psychotherapist who struggles to separate her work and personal life. After dozens of dates that end with men dumping their feelings on her, Sarah is ready to give up, until she starts a conversation with a young waiter at her favorite restaurant. 

9. All Rhodes Lead Here by Mariana Zapata

All Rhodes Lead Here is the perfect read for fans of Grumpy/Sunshine stories. It follows Aurora, who moves back to the small town she grew up in to start anew. She rents a garage apartment from Tobias Rhodes, and the two build a slow friendship and begin to open up to each other. 

8. Don’t Kiss the Bride by Carian Cole

Don’t Kiss the Bride follows the 18-year-old Skyler and the 34-year-old Jude Lucketti, as they enter a marriage of convenience to suit their own needs. Skyler has only one condition: Lucky cannot kiss her on the wedding day. A controversial read due to the incredible age gap, Don’t Kiss the Bride is evidently not everyone’s cup of tea. 

7. Part of Your World by Abby Jimenez

Part of Your World is a much-needed departure from typical age-gap romances, as it follows 37-year-old Alexis as she begins to date Daniel, who is ten years younger. The two couldn’t be any more different, but as they spend time together, they soon realize that they have more in common than otherwise. 

6. Birthday Girl by Penelope Douglas

Penelope Douglas is an age-gap veteran, and Birthday Girl is one of her most adored works. It follows the 19-year-old Jordan as she and her boyfriend move into his father’s house. While she’s immensely grateful to Pike for taking them in, she can’t deny the tension between herself and the 38-year-old. Fighting their mutual attraction to each other only gets harder by the day and it’s only a matter of time before one of them breaks. 

5. Heartless by Elsie Silver

One book that has been on many TBR lists is Heartless. This age-gap romance book features a fan-favorite trope; the nanny and single dad trope. Willa is an outspoken and fiery character, while Cade’s grumpy exterior makes the reader eager to see what he’s hiding underneath. Despite their 13-year age gap, the chemistry between these characters is palpable, making Heartless a great read. 

4. Sweet Spot by Rebecca Jenshak

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Sweet Spot is the perfect mix of sports romance and age-gap tropes. It’s a college romance novel following college golfer, Kiera, as she begins to work with legendary coach Lincoln to up her game. While she finds him infuriating at first, their fights soon blossom into a searing sexual tension that neither of them can avoid. 

3. Everything for You by Chloe Liese

Another sports and age-gap hybrid romance is Everything for You. This time, the sport in question is soccer, and the main characters are co-captains on their soccer team. Oliver is an soccer star beloved by fans worldwide, while Gavin is a legend, 10 years older than Oliver, and a strict captain. When Oliver is promoted to co-captain, the two men are forced to make things work, or lose their positions and sparks begin to fly. 

2. The Worst Kept Secret by Q.B. Tyler

It’s impossible to talk about age-gap romances and not mention Q.B. Tyler. In his novel, The Worst Kept Secret, Avery has had a crush on the sexy older man who lived next door since she was a teenager. The only problem is that Theo is her best friend’s father, and said best friend has been in love with her for years. When Avery finally makes a move on Theo, they both quickly realize that this is more than just lust, and they can’t resist each other. 

1. The Doctor by Nikki Sloane

Falling for an ex’s dad is a popular age-gap trope in novels. In The Doctor, Cassidy finds herself falling for her ex-boyfriend’s father, Dr. Gregory Lowe. What begins as just sexual tension, soon develops into an emotional bond between the two. This book, for many,  is the right amount of steam, coupled with charismatic characters, and slightly awkward scenarios to satisfy all the needs of an age-gap romance lover.

Reverse harem is one of those subgenres that would have been considered taboo a few years ago. Now, with the subgenre’s rising popularity on Booktok, and society’s growing awareness surrounding female sexuality, these steamy books are finally having their moment!

For those unfamiliar, reverse harem stories feature a female main character forming relationships with at least more than two male love interests. They also often fall within the erotica genre, but there are tamer stories out there. For brave-hearted readers ready to take on all these relationships, here are 10 of the best reverse harem books, ranked. 

10. Lords of Pain by Angel Lawson

Fans of dark romance will love Lords of Pain. It follows a woman named Story, who, when she is at her lowest, finds herself on the doorstep of her half-brother Killian and his two best friends, Dimitri and Tristian. Three years ago they violated her but now the three men are just one element of Story’s dark past, and her last resort as she flees a violent stalker. This book features controversial themes like dubious consent and bully romance, and while it might be a lot for some readers, fans of these themes will definitely love it. 

9. Broken Bonds by J. Bree

The Bonds That Tie series is a staple of the reverse harem genre on Booktok. It is a paranormal romance that follows a young woman named Oleander, who, after years on the run, is returned to her Bonds. Many reverse harem books include some variation of the concept of soulmates, and this falls into that category. Oli ran away for a reason, but now that she is back with her mates, North, Nox, Gryphon, Atlas, and Gabe, she has to earn their forgiveness for abandoning them. 

8. Faking with Benefits by Lily Gold

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Lily Gold is one of the most prolific reverse harem authors, and any fan of the genre should read at least one of her books. Faking with Benefits is one of her most popular, and follows a woman named Layla Thompson, who is in her late 30s, but has never had a boyfriend, or even her first kiss. She enlists the help of her three best friends, Zack, Josh, and Luke, to be her fake boyfriends and teach her the ropes. What she doesn’t plan on is catching feelings for all three. 

7. Lola & the Millionaires by Kathryn Moon

Harem situations are fairly common in Omegaverse books, so it’s only right that there are reverse harem books in the genre. Lola & the Millionaires follows Lola Barnes, a beta woman who decides she is done with alphas, until she meets a pack of men she can’t resist. The pack consists of alphas Cyrus, Matthieu, Caleb, and Wes; sweet beta, Leo; and Leo’s flirty omega, Rake. To her surprise, Lola finds herself falling for all the men in this pack, but her dark past haunts their happily ever after as her toxic alpha ex is after her. 

6. Sticks and Stone by Grace McGinty

Sports romances have been very popular lately, so it’s no surprise that there’s one on this list. Nova Stone’s story begins when she decides to take custody of her young half-brother, Huey, who she never knew about. However, becoming Huey’s guardian means she must now live with his overprotective uncles, NHL athletes, River and Rigby, and millionaire CEO, Devan. You know where this is going.

5. Hate by Tate James

Another Booktok staple, Hate is an enemies-to-lovers, college romance, reverse harem story. It follows Madison Kate who, after getting framed for a crime she didn’t commit, is back with a vengeance. What she doesn’t expect is for the men who framed her to be living in her house, and to find herself catching feelings for all three of them. 

4. Four Psychos by Kristy Cunning

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Four Psychos is a unique spin on the reverse harem trope as the main character, Keyla, is a ghost, watching over the four love interests, Kai, Jude, Ezekiel, and Gage. The story starts when, after five years of being unable to communicate with them, she finally makes . While there isn’t a lot of smut, it’s still steamy enough to satisfy readers looking for some spice. 

3. Find Me by Ashley Rostek

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Find Me also has an interesting premise, as it follows a woman named Shiloh who is just coming out of a year of Witness Protection after a stalker killed her entire family. Traumatized and starting over with a new identity, she meets Creed, Colton, Knox, and Keelan, her next-door neighbors, who help bring her out of her shell and heal. 

2. Variant Lost by Kaydence Snow

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Variant Lost is the first in the Evelyn Manyard trilogy. Set in a world where Variants, people with superhuman abilities, make up 18% of the population, Evelyn is just a human. However, her fate changes when she is accepted into the exclusive Bradford Hills Institute on scholarship. There, she meets Ethan, Josh, Tyler, and Alec, four powerful Variants who seem as drawn to her as she is to them. 

1. Den of Vipers by K.A Knight

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Den of Vipers is probably Booktok’s favorite reverse harem book. It includes some of the most popular tropes, from mafia romance, to BDSM. It follows Roxxanne who gets sold to the mafia to pay off her father’s debts. Now, although she is at the mercy of Ryder, Garrett, Kenzo, and Diesel, Roxxanne refuses to go down without a fight. The book comes with some content warnings for violence, gore, explicit sex scenes, and other kinds of graphic content, but for fans of this kind of content, Den of Vipers is a thrilling read. 

If you’re a fan of the Boundary Magic series, you’re most likely hooked on Allison “Lex” Luther’s journey as a boundary witch. Fans have followed Allison through her fair share of dark and dangerous adventures in the books. Following the fifth entry, Boundary Haunted, which left us with plenty of questions, it’s no surprise that many are itching to know if there’s a sixth book in the works. So, what’s the scoop on book 6?

Is Boundary Magic returning for book 6?

Are you ready for the 16th book in the Old World universe? Read the first two chapters of #OldWorldWar now, then preorder your copy:https://t.co/ma6mpHXI #kindlebook #KindleUnlimited pic.twitter.com/elQWas6BNu

— Melissa F. Olson will be at #DragonCon (@MelissaFOlson) August 23, 2022

Well, the great news is that book 6 of the Boundary Magic series is titled Old World War, and was released in 2022. Understandably, you may have missed it, especially since the previous books had been released fairly consistently, but then Old World War was released three years after book 5. It’s also pretty easy to lose track of it since the name doesn’t include the traditional “Boundary” like all the previous books. 

However, if you’ve already devoured Old World War and are wondering if the series will continue, there hasn’t been an official word from Melissa F. Olson. As of now, Old World War is the last book of the series. Many fans are hopeful though, because given the depth of the world she’s created, and the loyal fanbase the series has, it won’t be surprising if there will be more stories to come.

Olson is known for keeping her readers on their toes and she’s got a few other projects in the works, so it’s possible she’s taking her time to put together something really special for the next installment. While we wait, it might be a good time to revisit the series or check out Olson’s other works like the Old World series, which is set in the same universe. In the meantime, we’ll keep our fingers crossed, and our eyes peeled for any updates.

If you loved The Girl Who Kept Winter by Giao Chi, you’re probably searching for more books that blend enchanting world-building, rich cultural myths, and strong, resilient characters. And you’re in luck! There’s more than a few books that, although may have similar tropes, there’s a unique spellbinding quality to each. Here’s a list of 10 books that will transport you to magical worlds filled with epic battles, heart-wrenching love stories, and unforgettable journeys.

10. To the Sky Kingdom by Tang Qi Gong Zi

To the Sky Kingdom is a sweeping fantasy romance that follows the love story of Bai Qian, a fox spirit and goddess, and Ye Hua, a powerful crown prince of the Heavenly Kingdom. Spanning across different lifetimes and realms, their love is tested by fate, misunderstandings, and the interference of gods and demons.

9. Thousand Autumns by Meng Xi Shi

Thousand Autumns is a must-read for those who crave epic tales of adventure and romance. Set in ancient China, this novel follows the journey of Shen Qiao, a devout Daoist priest and skilled martial artist, and Yan Wushi, the powerful and cunning leader of a demonic sect. After Shen Qiao is injured in a battle, Yan Wushi takes him in with the intent to corrupt him. However, as they interact, Yan Wushi finds himself challenged by Shen Qiao’s remarkable spirit. 

8. The Golden Hairpin by Ce Ce Qing Han

In The Golden Hairpin, a young detective in ancient China must solve a series of murders after being falsely accused of murdering her family to avoid an arranged marriage. While on the run, she seeks the help of Li Shubai, the Prince of Kui, and agrees to go undercover as his eunuch to stop a serial killer and break a deadly curse. With its rich historical setting and clever and courageous heroine, this novel offers the same mix of mystery, intrigue, and strong character development that you loved in The Girl Who Kept Winter.

7. The Red Palace by June Hur

A historical masterpiece by June Hur, The Red Palace is a mystery set in the Joseon Dynasty. Eighteen-year-old Hyeon’s life takes a dangerous turn when four women are murdered in one night, and her closest friend and mentor are accused of the crime. Determined to prove her mentor’s innocence, Hyeon secretly investigates the murders and discovers evidence pointing to the Crown Prince as the possible killer. It’s a story filled with palace intrigue and dark secrets

6. The Girl Who Fell Beneath the Sea by Axie Oh

Axie Oh’s The Girl Who Fell Beneath the Sea is a dreamy, whimsical reimagining of the Korean folktale, The Tale of Shim Cheong. Mina’s homeland has been plagued by deadly storms and wars, believed to be the result of the Sea God’s curse. To appease him, the villagers sacrifice a beautiful maiden each year. When her brother’s beloved is chosen, Mina sacrifices herself in her place and is swept into the Spirit Realm. If you loved the blend of myth and fantasy in The Girl Who Kept Winter, this book will sweep you off your feet with its tale of a girl who sacrifices herself to save her village.

5. Maiden of Candlelight and Lotuses by Anastasis Blythe

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This enchanting tale draws readers into a world of ancient magic, where the protagonist must navigate treacherous waters. Song Liena, a simple farm girl, suddenly finds herself at the empire’s most dangerous magic academy after hoping for good luck at the matchmaker. However, she catches the attention of the Crown Prince, a powerful warrior with fire magic, while facing dark forces at the academy, where sinister, illegal magic threatens her at every turn.

4. A Crane Among Wolves by June Hur

Set in 15th-century Korea, A Crane Among Wolves is a historical novel with a touch of mystery and suspense. A determined young woman investigates a series of mysterious events within the royal court, she uncovers dark secrets that threaten her life and the stability of the kingdom. June Hur’s ability to evoke the atmosphere of a bygone era makes this book a fascinating read for anyone who enjoys rich, cultural settings and strong female leads.

3. Dark Tempest by Annette Marie

Another gem from Annette Marie, Dark Tempest continues the Red Winter Trilogy with a thrilling mix of mythology, romance, and danger. It follows Emi, a girl caught between two worlds—her ordinary life and the realm of gods and spirits. As she battles the dark forces threatening to destroy everything she holds dear, Emi must embrace her destiny and harness her hidden powers. It’s perfect for readers who enjoy seeing their heroes face impossible odds while battling both inner and outer demons.

2. Heart of the Sun Warrior by Sue Lynn Tan

This sequel to Daughter of the Moon Goddess is a lush, captivating tale steeped in Chinese mythology. The story continues the journey of Xingyin as she battles celestial forces and faces difficult choices to protect her loved ones. Tan’s storytelling is as radiant as the sun itself, weaving tales of love, war, and the struggle for power in a celestial realm. Fans of Giao Chi’s intricate world-building will appreciate the layers of lore and legend in this series.

1. Immortal Fire by Annette Marie

The final book in the #RedWinter trilogy is here! IMMORTAL FIRE is now available on #amazonkindle & paperback! https://t.co/BNq0KDJbnh pic.twitter.com/aOuBfT5wx6

— Annette Marie (@AnnetteMMarie) April 11, 2017

The third installment in Annette Marie’s Red Winter trilogy follows Emi, a girl who must navigate a world filled with powerful gods and dangerous spirits. Here, Emi faces her destiny in a climactic battle, where her courage and loyalty are tested. With the fate of both the mortal and spirit worlds hanging in the balance, Emi must confront her deepest fears and embrace her true power to save those she loves. If you loved the mystical elements and intense battles in The Girl Who Kept Winter, this series will be right up your alley.

The 2010s may have taken the werewolf craze to an all-time high, but true fans of the alpha-beta-omega ideology haven’t dropped the ball. Sure, we might not have TV shows portraying them like before, but that’s where the Omegaverse books come in.

This subgenre is filled with intense emotions, primal instincts, and more often than not, erotica. (Think Joe Manganiello as the dashing hunk of a werewolf Alcide Herveaux in True Blood, who is the ideal candidate for omegaverse lore, and thus, the poster boy for this article). So whether you’re a seasoned reader, or just dipping your toes into this fascinating subgenre, Omegaverse books are the perfect accompaniment for the full moon.

10. Omega’s Gambit by Flora Quincy

 

 

 

 

 

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In Omega’s Gambit, Flora Quincy delivers a story packed with political intrigue, dangerous secrets, and an unexpected romance. The book centers around Viola Hartwell, an omega barred from participating in politics, but determined to ensure the Omega Property Rights Act becomes law. She disguises herself as her alpha twin sister to gain the of the reclusive Duke of Orley, and sure enough, romance ensues.

9. Wide Awake by Anna Fury

Wide Awake takes a new twist to the Omegaverse subgenre. This dystopian book introduces us to the “Awaken Virus,” which turns men into violent beasts. Carmen flees New York City for the forests upstate, in the hopes of finding solitude and security, but Connor, an “Awakened” male, invades her new home, claiming she’s not only his but also his aggressive mate’s omega.  

8. Jax by Callie Rhodes

Book 15 of Callie Rhodes’ The Boundarylands series is a story of a troubled alpha trying to escape his dark past. Jax, an alpha who has spent 10 years in chains, has been transformed into a beast by his captivity. Victoria Hyde, a newly graduated genetic engineer finds out her new research subject is none other than the wild alpha. Victoria becomes torn between following orders or following her heart. Jax is a tale of redemption, trust, and the power of love to heal even the deepest wounds.

7. Forbidden by Liliana Carlisle

Forbidden by Liliana Carlisle is a tale of love that shouldn’t happen, but does anyway. An alpha and beta find themselves irresistibly drawn to each other, despite knowing their relationship is doomed to heartache. Despite knowing the risks and that their time together is limited, they put everything on the line to be together. 

6. Taming the Wolves by Lyx Robinson

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In Taming the Wolves, Lyx Robinson presents an omega who finds herself at the mercy of not one, but several alphas. Tamsin finds herself in a dire situation after being dragged into a fort filled with cursed Vikings, and is now being used as bait to lure out a dangerous enemy. The irony? Her only protectors are the same Vikings who brought her there. 

5. The Omega Merger by Roxy Collins

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The Omega Merger by Roxy Collins is a sizzling tale where business and pleasure collide. As a top “Alpha Wrangler,” Maddie is tasked with negotiating a major merger, planning to use the bonus to secure a future with her beta assistant and friend-with-benefits, Kelvin. However, her life is turned upside down when she’s triggered by a switch, revealing her hidden omega nature. 

4. Pack Darling: Part One by Lola Rock

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Lola Rock’s Pack Darling is a classic Omegaverse story with a reverse harem trope. After surviving a pretentious boarding school for omegas, Lilah has convinced everyone she’s a dud, never expecting to experience an awakening, heat, or a pack life. Preferring a life of solitude, her plans are shattered when the Wyvern Pack enters the picture, in search of an omega, of which she fits the bill. 

3. Fated by Kaylin Peryerk

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When an omega meets her fated alpha, it’s supposed to be perfect, right? But life is never that simple. Royce, a newly ascended dominant alpha, struggles with the overwhelming urges that come with being fated to his childhood best friend, Faye. Despite the powerful bond, Faye is determined to maintain her independence and focus on continuing her father’s research to help dominant omegas. As they navigate the pressures of love and responsibility, Royce and Faye must decide whether they can fulfill their dreams without sacrificing their autonomy or each other.

2. Knot My Reality by Miranda May

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Bree is a successful omega who has everything except a pack. She and her best friend, Tessa, have built a company that helps omegas find alphas and permanent packs through their apps. Now, Bree is launching a reality TV show called Heated, where she will be the first omega featured, searching for a pack as she nears her heat. With only eight weeks left, Bree is struggling to manage the show while dealing with twenty suitors and the pressure to succeed. 

1. A Meeting of Wolves by Lyx Robinson

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A prequel to Taming the Wolves, A Meeting of Wolves is set in winter in Dublin. The city is buzzing with preparations for Olaf Gofraidsson’s wedding to the High King’s daughter. Ivar, uninterested in the event and frustrated by his brother’s shift from their myth-chasing pursuits, is drawn to a young Viking mercenary with a distinctive X-shaped brand who arrives with the bride. This MM romance book is the best blend of action and ion.

The Kindred’s Curse series is just one of many ‘romantasy’ series that have blown up on BookTok, written by indie author Penn Cole. The buzzing author self-published the first three books in less than a year, and thanks to social media, has amassed a large audience for her epic fantasy. The fourth and final book in the series, Burn of the Everflame, has been the subject of much talk, especially as the release date has been changed multiple times. 

Why has Burn of the Everflame’s release been delayed so much?

As aforementioned, Burn of the Everflame is the final book in Penn Cole’s debut series, The Kindred’s Curse. The series includes Spark of the Everflame, Glow of the Everflame, and Heat of the Everflame, all released in 2023. After the rapid success of the trio, it’s an understatement to claim that the final entry into the saga is highly anticipated. This, of course, hasn’t been helped by the multiple delays. 

Burn of the Everflame was initially slated for a March 2024 release date, boosting excitement for the finale of an epic story of our butt-kicking heroine Diem Bellator. However, early in the year, Cole announced that this date was not feasible, and fans should expect the book on the first of June. In her heartfelt caption, she stated that all the background preparations that go into a book release were the reason for the delay. This is especially true for an indie author such as herself who doesn’t have a (major) team helping with all the aspects of publishing.

So when can we expect Burn of the Everflame?

While fans took the first delay well, another release delay was announced in May. In the announcement, Cole explained that she was allowed to push back the release date on Amazon by 30 days, to secure any pre-orders for the e-book. However, by the end of June, the release was extended for yet another 30 days, with her website indicating the release for July 31.

Unfortunately, after the book still wasn’t released by the end of July, all pre-orders were canceled, causing a huge backlash from fans. According to them, Cole is currently toeing the line between stressed-out indie author, and nonchalant carefree writer. As much as she seems to be handling the bulk of her work alone, some fans also feel that she may have bitten off more than chew, and in an attempt to appease readers and keep her fame growing, she is over-exerting herself.

And now, a week into August, Burn of the Everflame still doesn’t have an official release date. Here’s hoping things look up for the rising star.

Warning: The following article contains references to domestic abuse. Please read with care.

As Deadpool slashes its way to the top of the box office, Ryan Reynold’s real-life wife is getting her fair share of screen time. Blake Lively stars in a highly-anticipated new film It Ends With Us, based on Colleen Hoover’s massively popular book.

It Ends With Us appears to have all the hallmarks of a classic romance, but take a deep dive into the pages of the source material and you’ll realize that isn’t exactly the case. Lively stars a florist with an entirely too-on-the-nose name: Lily Bloom. Struggling to overcome the realities of her parents’ abusive relationship, she sets off on the world and meets a man who seemingly has everything — looks, charm, and a successful career as a doctor. But you know what they say about an abusive relationship in act one. Lily’s romance with Ryle (Justin Baldoni) gets intense fast, making for a story full of twists and turns — and perhaps not the plot you may initially think of.

Who does Lily wind up choosing in It Ends With Us?

After a whirlwind courtship, Lily and Ryle seem to be made for each other, until one fateful night when Ryle loses his temper. It turns out that this story has romantic leanings, but it is really about ending the cycle of abuse. Ryle becomes more and more violent with Lily until one night when he tries to assault Lily sexually. Throughout these trials, Lily reconnects with her childhood sweetheart, Atlas (Brandon Sklenar).

Atlas is everything Ryle is not: ive, understanding, and respectful of Lily’s boundaries. Shaping a romance around domestic abuse is a tricky story to pull off and as fate would have it in the end, Lily doesn’t end up with her ab. After learning that she is pregnant, Lily decides that she doesn’t want to raise a child in a violent environment. She divorces Ryle and sets her mind on raising her daughter in a loving atmosphere.

These topics are heavy and may not instantly jive with a romantic story. By some miracle, however, Ryle agrees to the divorce which hopefully puts a stop to the cycle of trauma. And just to make sure that this film isn’t entirely too depressing, there is a happy ending. Though they kept their distance due to the sensitive situations mentioned above, Atlas and Lily finally it their feelings for one another. It Ends With Us may not exactly match everyone’s experience, but what work of fiction ever really does? Instead, Atlas and Lily’s experience paves the way for a committed and loving relationship which is continued in the sequel novel, It Starts With Us.

Vince Flynn went from having over 60 rejection letters and quitting his job to becoming a New York Times #1 Bestseller. In fact, his works are still topping charts years after his demise. Flynn was an incredible writer who was famous for his acclaimed political thrillers and counter-terrorism books.

Amongst other countless Vince Flynn fans, you’ll be hard-pressed to find someone who isn’t hooked on the Mitch Rapp book series. Flynn’s most famous character is exceptional, and it’s an understatement to say that he nailed the books.

1997’s Term Limits was Vince Flynn’s first book (which he wrote while working as a bartender), although it doesn’t feature the iconic Mitch Rapp character. However, it does contain many characters that later featured in his subsequent novels. Here’s a list of Vince Flynn’s books following a chronological reading order, as well as their dates of publication. 

The latest entry in the fold, Capture or Kill, is expected to be released on Sept. 3, 2024. Although we’re eagerly anticipating the new story, there’s also buzz within the fandom about who will best capture Flynn’s writing style better: Kyle Mills, or Don Bentley.

All Vince Flynn books in chronological order of events

• American Assassin (2010)
• Kill Shot (2012)
• Transfer of Power (1999)
• The Third Option (2000)
• Separation of Power (2001)
• Executive Power (2003)
• Memorial Day (2004)
• Consent to Kill (2005)
• Act of Treason (2006)
• Protect and Defend (2007)
• Extreme Measures (2008)
• Pursuit of Honor (2009)
• The Last Man (2012)
• The Survivor [By: Kyle Mills (2015)]
• Order to Kill [By: Kyle Mills (2016)]
• Enemy of the State [By: Kyle Mills (2017)]
• Red War [By: Kyle Mills (2018)]
• Lethal Agent [By: Kyle Mills (2019)]
• Total Power [By: Kyle Mills (2020)]
• Enemy at the Gates [By: Kyle Mills (2021)]
• Oath of Loyalty [By: Kyle Mills (2022)]
• Code Red [By: Kyle Mills (2023)]
• Capture or Kill [By: Don Bentley (2024)]

Vince Flynn also worked on anthologies, releasing the gripping Once Upon a Crime: An Anthology of Murder, Mayhem and Suspense in 2009, and Suspense Magazine in 2010.

Taking over the series after the ing of Flynn, Kyle Mills has fantastically maintained the franchise without doubt. Although, on the flip side, some fans say there’s a definite difference between Flynn’s and Mills’ writing. Nonetheless, now the mantle is with Don Bentley, who will undoubtedly capture the essence of the original author’s style for his fastidious fans. Capture or Kill (By Bentley) is now available for preorder and you can find it on Amazon.

Michael Connelly’s Bosch series is a cornerstone of modern crime fiction. The series, centered around LAPD Detective Hieronymus “Harry” Bosch, delves into the world of crime and justice in Los Angeles.

Many will be familiar with the title thanks to the acclaimed TV series of the same name. Bosch, a deeply complex character shaped by his turbulent past, navigates the gritty streets of LA, solving cases with a relentless pursuit of truth. For readers looking to immerse themselves in Bosch’s world, here’s a guide to reading all the Bosch books in order.

All Bosch books in order

• The Black Echo (1992)
• The Black Ice (1993)
• The Concrete Blonde (1994)
• The Last Coyote (1995)
• Trunk Music (1997)
• Angels Flight (1999)
• A Darkness More Than Night (2001)
• City of Bones (2002)
• Lost Light (2003)
• The Narrows (2004)
• The Closers (2005)
• Echo Park (2006)
• The Overlook (2007)
• Nine Dragons (2009)
• The Drop (2011)
• The Black Box (2012)
• The Burning Room (2014)
• The Crossing (2015)
• The Wrong Side of Goodbye (2016)
• Two Kinds of Truth (2017)
• Dark Sacred Night (2018)
• The Night Fire (2019)
• The Dark Hours (2021)
• Desert Star (2022)
• The Waiting (2024)

ittedly, there are quite a lot of books in the franchise to get into. Thankfully, I’ve helped narrow it down to some of the entries you simply just can’t overlook. So if you haven’t got the time to dive into all the Bosch books, here’s an essential read. 

The Black Echo (1992)

The debut novel introduces Harry Bosch as he investigates the death of a fellow Vietnam veteran found in a drainpipe. Initially dismissed as a drug overdose, Bosch recognizes the victim as a fellow “tunnel rat” from the war and suspects foul play. As he investigates, Bosch uncovers connections to a high-stakes bank heist. This case leads him into a world of corruption, betrayal, and the remnants of his war-torn past.

The Black Ice (1993)

Bosch is drawn into the dangerous underworld of narcotics when a narcotics officer is found dead in a seedy motel room, seemingly by suicide. However, Bosch suspects foul play and delves into the murky world of drug trafficking. As he uncovers connections to Mexican drug cartels and internal corruption, Bosch risks his career and life to expose the truth. The investigation takes him across the border to Mexico, where the stakes are higher and the dangers more pronounced, ultimately leading to a shocking revelation about the officer’s death.

The Last Coyote (1995)

Suspended from the LAPD and about to lose his house, Bosch decides to tackle a deeply personal decades-old cold case: the unsolved murder of his mother’s murder. As he delves into the investigation, Bosch uncovers long-buried secrets and political corruption, forcing him to confront painful memories and the harsh realities of his past. This journey of personal discovery and relentless pursuit of justice tests Bosch’s resolve and reshapes his understanding of his own identity and the world around him.

Nine Dragons (2009)

In Nine Dragons, Harry Bosch’s life takes a dramatic turn when a routine investigation into the murder of a Chinese liquor store owner in Los Angeles reveals connections to a powerful Hong Kong triad. As Bosch delves deeper into the case, he receives a devastating phone call: his daughter, Maddie, has been kidnapped in Hong Kong. Racing against time, Bosch travels across the world to save her, navigating the dangerous criminal underworld of a foreign city and confronting his personal demons.

The Narrows (2004)

In The Narrows, retired FBI profiler Terry McCaleb is found dead under mysterious circumstances. LAPD Detective Harry Bosch takes on the case, suspecting foul play. As Bosch does further investigations, he uncovers links to a serial killer known as the Poet, previously thought to be dead. The investigation takes Bosch through treacherous waters as he battles personal demons and faces a cunning adversary.

The Drop (2011)

Bosch and his new partner, rookie Detective Lucia Soto, investigate a case where a victim of a shooting dies a decade later. As they dig deeper, they uncover connections to a devastating fire in an apartment building that killed multiple children. The investigation takes them through a labyrinth of political intrigue and buried secrets, revealing corruption and cover-ups that put their own lives at risk. Bosch and Soto’s pursuit of justice showcases their determination to bring closure to the victims and hold those responsible able, no matter how powerful they are.