1001 Dark Nights Short Story Anthology 2020

I received an advanced copy of this book from Patricia D. Eddy, whose contribution "Her Mafioso's Honor" is about midway through the book, for review. I started with her story, and am slowly making my way through the rest. I love anthologies like this, especially romance-laden ones, as they give a ton of heat in bite-sized stories that don't have the same kind of pressure to commit as a full-length novel or series (though, who are we kidding - most of these stories are going to send you searching for the full catalogues of the authors within). "Her Mafioso's Honor" serves up the kind of characters you can't help but want to see more of. Evelyn and Damian are both driven by a sense of duty and pride, though stemming from wildly different circumstances, and clash together when Evelyn finds herself over her head. Cue the steam, swoon and that longing to see a so-called "bad boy" take names and save the day. I'm thrilled that we may see more of these characters developed in the year ahead. Following Eddy's story was "So Much More" by Reina Torres. Somehow the author managed to create that delicate sense of hesitation and slow burn within just a few chapters. The shared history and pining between the two characters made the heat in the story that much more satisfying, and I'd happily read about the hinted back story in a full-length novel. As I continue through the other stories, I will try to update my review, however, considering this anthology is literally free across all major retailers, I'd highly recommend diving in. With so many stories to choose from, there's bound to be one that draws you in and provides that perfect evening escape.

I have only read Prince of Hearts by Caraway Carter at the time, but I will be going back and reading all the stories. Prince of Hearts is a quick short story about two older gentlemen who meet in an unique way and agree to meet again later in the day. A misunderstanding, a reprieve, and a second chance to get it right, Grady and Matthew seem to be on the way to a happily-ever-after. Caraway Carter gives you just enough of a taste to cause the reader to want to read more of their story.

Gina L. Maxwell - Masked Desires Maggie Clark has had the hots for her brother's best friend, Jonah Warner, since she was younger. The closest she ever got to him was one scorching kiss when she was eighteen. Now three years later she is ready to make her move at the Emergency Masquerade Ball. When Jonah first sees Maggie, he doesn't realize who she is and after a kiss even hotter than their last time, Jonah quickly realizes who he is kissing. Maggie finally gets Jonah to give in to his urges.....of course their moment ends up interrupted by Maggie's brother Callum! What happens next is a fun twist that gives everyone their happy ending. I LOVED this story! It was a fun, flirty, quick read. I can't wait to read the rest of the stories in this anthology.