Review for Den Mitao's KISS OR DIE TRYING! Volume 1

 

KISS OR DIE TRYING! Volume 1
Boys Love, Romantic Comedy

 

AUTHOR:
Den Mitao

RELEASE DATE:
December 08, 2026

PUBLISHER:
Kodansha Comics

ISBN/ ASIN NUMBER :
9798888779088

RATING:
4

 

 

Kanemaru is a relationship hopper – he falls in love easily though the relationships never last. His latest crush, Liu, works at his favorite restaurant. Liu is an international student – he transferred to Japan in search of safety and peace. He is unaware of the playboy’s interest. That changes when the two are taken hostage during a robbery. Hijinks ensue. Will this relationship be different for Kanemaru? And will Liu reciprocate his feelings?

For all of Kanemaru’s faults, he is a cinnamon roll. I believe his inability to commit to his relationships stems from being orphaned and abandoned young. I love how Kanemaru always asks for consent before kissing Liu. Some people may find that annoying. I feel this shows that he genuinely cares about Liu, and he wants to avoid making him uncomfortable.

Liu remains an enigma, with only few scattered details mentioned about him. The manga does not really reveal his nationality (not that I noticed). What is known about Liu is his uncanny ability to escape hostile and dangerous situations with ease. I like how Liu’s unintentional influence causes Kanemaru to take his college studies more seriously. I wonder if more about his background will be revealed in future volumes?

KISS OR DIE TRYING! is more light-hearted, romantic comedy BL fluff. The art style reminds me of Gravitation, especially with Kanemaru’s design. I am still undecided if I want this manga in my personal collection or follow future volumes.

Review for Sherrilyn Kenyon's THE WARRIOR

 

THE WARRIOR
Historical Romance

 

 

AUTHOR:
Sherrilyn Kenyon (aka Kinley MacGregor)

RELEASE DATE:
November 03, 2026

PUBLISHER:
Oliver Heber Books

ISBN/ ASIN NUMBER :
B0HJMN5LZH

RATING:
4.5

AUTHOR LINK:
https://www.sherrilynkenyon.com/

 

 

Lochlan MacAllister is the laird of a powerful Scottish clan. He sets out to uncover the truth after that his brother faked his death. His search leads him to France, where he again encounters the infuriating hoyden Cat. Lochlan rescues her from her attackers, only to find them both pursued by the French royal guard. The truth he seeks is far darker than he imagined. Can Lochlan protect Cat from those hunting her? And will he find his missing brother alive?

Catarina is the illegitimate daughter of the French king. She refuses to become her father’s political pawn, so she repeatedly evades his attempts to bring her back to France. While escaping her kidnappers, Cat is rescued by an unlikely savior. When Lochlan agrees to help her, she joins his quest. Catarina never expected to fall in love with the stoic Highlander. Can she escape the fate her royal father has planned? Or will she be forced to leave the only man she trusts and love?

I already knew some about Lochlan’s upbringing from his brothers’ stories. It is remarkable that he did not become hard or cynical. Instead, he grew into a man opposite of his abusive sire: a responsible laird who puts his family and clan’s well-being before his own. I understand Lochlan’s reluctance to allow a woman into his heart. He had already been betrayed once in the most horrendous way possible. What I adore the most about Lochlan is his kindness towards the less fortunate. He refuses to allow anyone to be taken advantage of in his presence.

Catarina did not appeal to me. Which is surprising since she seems to be the type of heroine I usually prefer. I cannot pinpoint what exactly about Cat that rubs me the wrong way.  I just did not care about her character when she first appeared in THE SCOTSMAN, book four. Catarina is Lochlan’s opposite.  She knows that he carries the weight of his clan on his shoulders. I like how Cat tries to encourage Lochlan to think and live for himself for once.

THE WARRIOR is the seventh book in Sherrilyn Kenyon’s historical romance series, BROTHERHOOD OF THE SWORD and MACALLISTER. Originally released in 2007 by Avon by the same title but under the author’s other alias, Kinley MacGregor. Sherrilyn has re-published the series (except for Simon’s novella) with different covers and new titles. As with the other books in this series, I first read THE WARRIOR when it was released in 2007. I have not revisited them until recently. Much of the books’ contents I have forgotten except for the ending. That will always remain memorable to me.

I am ecstatic that Simon appears in this book. He has become a favorite side character of mine and sorely missed in the last couple novels. Stryder and Rowena, the couple from book five (THE CHAMPION) play important roles in the story. And we finally get to meet the elusive The Scot. I have been curious about him and his identity.

I do have one request (or inquiry) for the author? Would she please consider writing more in this series? That is if she has the rights. There is a slew of side characters I would dearly love to see get a happily-ever-after. I am probably not the only fan who feels that way. In the last book, it was Corryn. In this story, it is Kestrel.

Review for Shana Galen's "A LONDON CRIME LORD TAKES A BRIDE"

 

A LONDON CRIME LORD TAKES A BRIDE
Historical Romance

 

AUTHOR:
Shana Galen

RELEASE DATE:
March 23, 2027

PUBLISHER:
Berkley Publishing

ISBN/ ASIN NUMBER :
9798217188536

RATING:
4.5

AUTHOR LINK:
https://shanagalen.com/

 

 

Charity Claremont is the twenty-eight-year-old spinster of a viscount. She discovers that her mother has sold her hand in marriage to the infamous crime lord, Baron of Blackfriars. With homelessness as her only alternative, Charity accepts the arrangement. Her new husband is nothing like the man portrayed in the papers. She understands why Trig married her; she also knows the ton will never fully accept him. Can Charity adapt to her new life?

Trig Blackfriars is known throughout London as the notorious crime lord Baron of Blackfriar. He strives for respectability – and marrying into the peerage is the key to achieve that. When Charity’s mother seeks him for financial support, Trig agrees on one condition: her daughter’s hand in marriage. He never expects his bride to captivate him. When his rival threatens everything he has built or loved, Trig is determined to protect Charity at any cost. Will he achieve the respectability he desires?

The entire story is written solely from Charity’s point-of-view. So, readers gain insight into her thoughts, perceptions and feelings. I dislike the childhood Charity’s parents forced upon her – her father’s mistreatment and her mother’s indifference. Honestly, I feel she should cut her mother completely out of her life. What I like the most about Charity is that she never looked down on Trig or acted superior. She treated him as she would anyone else. There were no class distinctions between them.

What is there not to like about Trig? Through sheer grit and determination, he rose from the butter to become a wealthy businessman. I love that, before they married, Trig informed Charity she would always have a choice with him. Something her father and everyone else in her life had denied her. What I adore the most about Trig is that he gave Charity a library. That is every modern bookworm’s dream. Best of all, Trig refused to restrict what she read like most men in that era.

A LONDON CRIME LORD TAKES A BRIDE is the first book in Shana Galen’s brand-new historical romance series, MONKS OF BLACKFRIARS. This is the second book I have read by this author, and I enjoyed it like the first. It did take me some time to adjust to the first-person perspective. I have no issue with that style, although I do know some readers who do. Some of my favorite books are written in it, such as Susan Kay’s PHANTOM and Jenniferson Roberson’s CHRONICLES OF THE CHEYSULI series.

The lengthy title is what first caught my attention on Netgalley. And the synopsis convinced me to give the book a try. I enjoy stories that feature gaming clubs and crime lords. They offer a nice change-of-pace than the usual personages in haut ton. I love the “nod” to A SHOPE GIRL’S GUIDE TO WOOING A LORD, the first book in the author’s THE HEIRESS HUNTER series.

I cannot wait for new releases for both series!

 

Review for Sherrilyn Kenyon's "THE OUTSIDER"

 

THE OUTSIDER
Historical Romance

 

 

AUTHOR:
Sherrilyn Kenyon/Kinley MacGregor

RELEASE DATE:
October 13, 2026

PUBLISHER:
Oliver Heber Books

ISBN/ ASIN NUMBER :
B0HJMGHQS2

RATING:
4.5

AUTHOR LINK:
https://www.sherrilynkenyon.com/

 

 

Christian of Acre is known amongst the Brotherhood of the Sword as the Abbott. He has no desire to claim his birthright or his betrothed – until the choice is taken from him. A beautiful, naked stranger appears in his room and claims to be his wife. When assassins strike, Christian has no other option but to help her. He tries to resist Adara’s charms, but something about the woman soothes his traumatized soul.

Adara is the queen of a small nation. She refuses to yield to a power-hungry usurper determined to seize her throne. To protect her people, Adara must quickly find her husband and consummate their marriage. She is dismayed to discover that Christian has no interest in claiming his rightful place as king. When they are besieged by assassins, Adara hopes to persuade him to reconsider. Or give her an heir.

Christian is a tormented soul, haunted by his time in a Saracen prison. I admire how he offers the dying comfort and last rites despite his wavering faith. That must have draining consequences on a young teenager’s mind. I also like how Christian takes his duties within the Brotherhood of the Sword seriously. He knows the personal toll it will take, and yet, he remains committed in helping each rescued soul the Brotherhood finds.

I am still unsure how to feel or think about Adara. I like that she first thinks of her people before worrying about herself. Normally, monarchs see their people as expendable pawns. I also like how steadfast Adara kept to their marriage. However, she seemed to idealize what a husband should be, and she tried to impose that on Christian.

THE OUTSIDER is the sixth book in Sherrilyn Kenyon’s historical romance series, A BROTHERHOOD OF THE SWORD (fifth book in MACALLISTER series). Originally released in 2005 by Avon as RETURN OF THE WARRIOR under the author’s other alias, Kinley MacGregor. Sherrilyn has re-published the series (all except one novella) with different covers and titles.

I first read this story when it was released in 2005 and have not revisited it until now. I remembered some scenes and characters, others not so much. It was wonderful to return to a beloved series from my younger years. I do have one question for the author. Is she considering writing more books in this series? Please, please say yes. There are many side characters, members of the Brotherhood especially, I would like to see get a happily ever after. Corryn is one of them. She is so spunky and fun!

Review for Julie Ann Walker's FADE TO BLACK

 

FADE TO BLACK
Romantic Suspense

 

AUTHOR:
Julie Ann Walker

RELEASE DATE:
November 24, 2026

PUBLISHER:
Limerence Publications

ISBN/ ASIN NUMBER :
B0G4SQM7VK

RATING:
5

AUTHOR LINK:
https://www.julieannwalker.com/

 

 

Chief Graham Coleborn, a former Navy SEAL, is a covert operative for Black Knights Inc. He prefers uncomplicated things, especially when it comes to relationships. At his teammates’ urging, he persuades Lura to help ferret out a traitor in the White House. She makes Graham want permanence, but he hesitates to blur the professional line between them. But first, they must identify Bishop and bring him down. Will Graham and Lura have a relationship once the mission is completed?

Lura Dougherty is the Chief of Staff’s top aide. She agrees to help the Black Knight team expose a traitor in the White House. She never expects the subterfuge to take such a mental and emotional toll. The only perk in her partnership with BKI is posing as Graham Coleburn’s girlfriend. Lura, however, wishes that their fake relationship was real. When they finally uncover Bishop’s identity, the truth threatens both her life and her career. Will Lura escape the fall out unscathed?

Graham is such a love! He has endured a difficult home life. And instead of becoming a hoodlum, he chose to join the Navy, which turned out to be exactly what he needed. I like how Graham and Lura were both unaware of the other’s interest, each worrying they might be taking advantage of the situation. What I adore the most about Graham is the small ways he helped Lura cope. He saw the strain it was taking on her health, so he taught her little tricks to overcome it.

My heart went out to Lura. I can only imagine the stress she endured secretly helping the BKI boys. How frightening and nerve-wracking it must have been for her. I like that the author showed the toll it took on her well-being. Lura clearly struggled with her role in the mission, and she did not have the same training the BKI crew did in such situations. What I love the most about Lura is how she interacts with Graham and his comrades. She matches their banter like-for-like. And yes, I love the way she picked on Fisher.

FADE TO BLACK is the sixth and final book in Julie Ann Walker’s romantic suspense series, BLACK KNIGHTS INC: RELOADED -a spinoff from her popular BLACK KNIGHTS INC books. I cannot stress enough the importance of starting with the first series before delving into the second. I cannot stress the importance of starting with the first series before delving into the second. It sets the stage for the concept behind Black Knights Inc, who they report to, their home base, why that place got chosen, etc.

The original crew will always be my favorite, largely because of Ozzy. I love that the author incorporated him into the new series, mostly as a comedic side character. Fisher is a close second, but he just cannot measure up to the Ozz-man in my heart (lol). I also like the other members of the first crew (some more than others) make appearances in the new. What I love most about both series is the bromance and banter. Walker excels at it! I cannot say how many times I have snorted out in laughter over something they said. That is what I will miss the most.

FYI – I would not be opposed to have yet another BKI crew with a new president. Just saying, because I do not want to say goodbye.

I am sad that this is the end of the Black Knight Inc’s journey. However, the author is not done with this world. She has set everything up for a spinoff! I am beyond happy that she is going to explore Kerberos. Sure, we did learn a little more about the members of the enigmatic, elusive hacker group, their agenda, etc in this book. I cannot wait!

 

Review for Sherrilyn Kenyon/Kinley MacGregor's "THE CHAMPION"

 

THE CHAMPION
Historical Romance

 

 

 

AUTHOR:
Sherrilyn Kenyon (aka Kinley MacGregor)

RELEASE DATE:
September 08, 2026

PUBLISHER:
Oliver Heber Books

ISBN/ ASIN NUMBER :
B0H8Y6Q688

RATING:
4.5

AUTHOR LINK:
https://www.sherrilynkenyon.com/

 

 

Stryder of Blackmoor is the undisputed leader of The Brotherhood of the Sword – a group of men who escaped Saracen imprisonment and rescued others in the same plight. He has no desire to marry and zero love for minstrels. When the king arranges his marriage to Rowena, Stryder’s only escape is to win the troubadour contest. Yet danger and death repeatedly draw them together. Who is the enemy shadowing Stryder’s every move? And will Rowena change his stance on marriage and minstrels?

Rowena de Vitry is an heiress with vast holdings in southern England. Her open disdain for knights has earned her little regard among her peers. When the king orders her to marry Stryder, who is equally opposed to the match, Rowena must depend on him to win the troubadour contest. She soon becomes caught in the danger surrounding Stryder and his men. Can she help him uncover the assassins hunting him? And will her opinions on knights change?

Stryder is a man haunted by his parents’ loveless union and his time imprisoned. I understand his reluctance to marry and dislike of minstrels. He did not exactly have good role models growing up. I adore how Stryder took a traumatic time and turned it into a life’s mission: to free others from the same fate and help them rebuild and heal. What I admire the most about Stryder is his acceptance of his brother Kit. He refuses to allow anyone to hurt or belittle him.

It took me a while to warm to Rowena. I understand her resentment and dislike toward warfare and knights. Both contributed to her father’s death. I sympathize with Rowen on how her peers treated her. She never realized, until Stryder, the enmity she garnered for her stance against knights. What I like the most about Rowena is her refusal to let Stryder remain alone in a cell. After learning about his ordeal in the Holy Lands, she understood the effect it would have on him.

THE CHAMPION is the fifth book in Sherrilyn Kenyon’s historical romance series, A BROTHERHOOD OF THE SWORD. Originally released in 2004 by Avon as A DARK CHAMPION and written under the author’s other alias, Kinley MacGregor. Sherrilyn has re-published the series (save for one novella) with different covers and new titles.

Technically, this was a re-read for me. I first read the story when it was released twenty-two years ago, but I had forgotten much of what happened. In many ways, it felt like I was reading it for the first time.

I do have one question (gripe really). Why was Simon’s novella, MIDSUMMER’S KNIGHT, not re-published like the others? It is the only story in the series I have not read.

Review for Kotora Aoshima's "FAN/GIRL X CALL/BOY, Volume 1"

 

FAN/GIRL x CALL/BOY, Volume One
Romance, Slice of Life, Otaku

 

 

 

AUTHOR:
Kotora Aoshima

RELEASE DATE:
October 20, 2026

PUBLISHER:
Kodansha Comics

ISBN/ ASIN NUMBER :
9798888778463

RATING:
5

 

 

Sakurako is an anxious shut-in otaku with zero romantic experience. She wants to experience something her favorite game character did, so she hires an escort service. When Sakurako trips, and accidentally reveals her favorite game, she discovers her call boy is an otaku kindred spirit. Rather than having sex, they spend the night playing their favorite erotic game. And the start of their unlikely friendship is born.

Fuji is a stylish, smooth-talking call boy working for an escort service. After seeing Sakurako’s room, he senses she is not truly interested in sex. When an accident reveals her favorite game – one that he too enjoys – Fuji begins to understand what she really wants. Something about the anxious woman makes him want to become friends with her. They spend the evening geeking out and playing their favorite erotic game.

I could not help but like Sakurako instantly. She does not know how to react around people and situations (she’s socially awkward). In some ways I can identify. I go through moments when I suffer the same – my case is not as bad as hers. So, I understand why Sakurako finds solace in her fandom. I do have questions about her family. Where are they? Why are they never present? Will we discover more about them in further volumes. Sakurako’s character design reminds me of Natsuko Hirose, the main character in the anime Zenshu. It nagged at me that she reminded me of someone, until I remembered who.

Fuji is such a sweetheart! His outgoing personality nicely balances Sakurako’s introversion. I like that he never takes advantage of her. Fuji quickly catches on to what she is seeking and tells her she will not find it through call boys. In some of the panels, he comes across as protective. I like how his presence helps Sakurako become less timid. He does not pressure her but gently and patiently encourages her. I cannot wait to learn more about Fuji’s home situation, especially his brothers.

This manga surprised me – in a good way! I picked it up because the description stated it was perfect for fans of WOTAKOI: LOVE IS HARD FOR OTAKU. I absolutely love that manga and the animation adaptation they made – though I am still disappointed the anime never received a US DVD release or had merch. I admit, I was skeptical going in. However, within a few pages, I was hooked. The characters are likable, and the story is sweet, cute, and wholesome.

I cannot wait for its release so I can add it, and future volumes, to my collection. I would not object if they decide to do an anime adaptation to this title.