Buzz Books 2025: Romance by Publishers Lunch

 Book Excerpt:

"Welcome to Buzz Books: Romance 2025! This edition of our longstanding, much-beloved Buzz Books series includes 18 excerpts from some of the buzziest upcoming romance titles of the year. Whether you are an avid romance reader or are curious about this fast-growing genre, this edition has something for everyone. At the end of most excerpts, you will find a link to download or request the full galley—exclusive to the NetGalley edition!

Discover compelling stories from acclaimed authors, including Alexandria Bellefleur, Kate Clayborn, Emily McIntire, Lauren Rowe, and Nikki St. Crowe, alongside exciting debuts from Taylor Esposito, Jessica M. Felleman, Jaclyn Rodriguez, and Edward Schmit.

This diverse collection spans young adult, new adult, and adult romance across multiple beloved subgenres and tropes: sports romance, contemporary romance, dark romance, romantasy, Greek mythology retellings, Western romance, enemies-to-lovers, second chance romance, and more.

New for this edition of Buzz Books Romance, we've not only given you a guide to the age category of the titles, but also a heat level. We hope this guides your reading choices.

Finally, if you love this edition, be sure to keep an eye out for our following publication, Buzz Books: Spring/Summer 2026."

Title:  Buzz Books 2025

Author:  Publishers Lunch

Publisher:  Publishers Lunch BUZZ BOOKS

Reviewed By:  Arlena Dean

Rating: Five

Review:

"Buzz Books 2025" by Publishers Lunch

My Insight:  

"Welcome to Buzz Books: Romance 2025! This edition of our beloved Buzz Books series includes 18 excerpts from some of the most anticipated upcoming romance titles of the year. Whether you are an avid romance reader or simply curious about this fast-growing genre, this edition has something for everyone. At the end of most excerpts, you will find a link to download or request the full galley, which is exclusive to this NetGalley edition! Discover compelling stories from acclaimed authors, including Alexandria Bellefleur, Kate Clayborn, Emily McIntire, Lauren Rowe, and Nikki St. Crowe, along with exciting debuts from Taylor Esposito, Jessica M. Felleman, Jaclyn Rodriguez, and Edward Schmit. This diverse collection spans young adult, new adult, and adult romance across multiple beloved subgenres and tropes: sports romance, contemporary romance, dark romance, romantasy, Greek mythology retellings, Western romance, enemies-to-lovers, second chance romance, and more. New for this edition of Buzz Books Romance, we've provided not only a guide to the age categories of the titles but also a heat level. We hope this assists you in making your reading choices. Finally, if you enjoy this edition, be sure to keep an eye out for our next publication, Buzz Books: Spring/Summer 2026."

FIGHT FOR YOU: A Standalone Scottish BWWM Romance (MacKenzie Crime Family) Kindle Edition by Amarie Avant

 Book Excerpt:

"He promised to save me. Then he left me behind....

JORDYN

Jamie MacKenzie was my light in a childhood of captivity—until his clan ripped him away and left me in the dark.
Now, he's back. No longer a boy, but a battle-hardened ex-Marine, armed with vengeance and regrets.
He says he'll burn the world to the ground to free me—even if I fight him every step of the way. But I'm not just haunted by my past... I belong to a ruthless Bratva tsar who branded me as his. And he won't let me go without a war.

JAMIE

I failed Jordyn once. I'll never make that mistake again.
She doesn't trust me. Doesn't want saving.
But I'm done letting others hurt her.
I'll go to war with the Russian who owns her—or the family I was born into—if that's what it takes.
Clan MacKenzie doesn't forgive betrayal. And neither do I.
 
This fierce, emotionally charged BWWM romantic thriller is packed with heart, vengeance, and high-stakes redemption. While this story contains mature themes, including trafficking and the loss of a child, these elements are handled with care and sensitivity; reader discretion is advised. At its heart of the suspense is a story about finding light in the darkest places—and the fierce, unrelenting fight to reclaim hope, love, and freedom."

Title:  Fight For You

Author:  Amarie Avant

Publisher:  A. A.

Series:  MacKenzie Crime Family

Reviewed By:  Arlena Dean

Rating:  Five

Review:

'FIGHT FOR YOU: A Standalone Scottish BWWM Romance (MacKenzie Crime Family), by Amarie Avant 

My Insight:

"Fight For You" offers a breathtaking love story set against the fascinating backdrop of the Scottish mob. The profound bond between Jamie and Jordyn radiates throughout their emotional journey, especially as Jamie fiercely fights to rescue Jordyn after her kidnapping. Their path to healing and personal growth unfolds with grace, delivering an uplifting message about the incredible power of love.

Get ready for a thrilling rollercoaster of emotions—suspense, romance, and drama come together with themes of betrayal and mistrust. The author skillfully spins a captivating tale centered around the mysterious MacKenzie Crime Family, perfectly immersing readers in a world where love stands strong against life's challenges. Prepare to be swept into an unforgettable adventure!

This is a review after listening to the audiobook.

JORDYN... Jamie MacKenzie was my beacon of hope during a bleak and oppressive childhood—my refuge amid the darkness of captivity. For years, he was my closest friend and ally—until his clan tore him away from me, leaving me alone in a nightmare. Now he has returned, transformed from the innocent boy I once knew into a battle-hardened ex-Marine, his spirit forged in the fires of conflict and carrying the weight of vengeance and regret. He swears he'll set the world ablaze to save me, even if I resist him at every turn. However, I'm not only grappling with memories of my past; I am also bound to a merciless Bratva tsar who sees me as his property. He won't release me without a fierce struggle that could ignite a war.

JAMIE... I failed Jordyn once, and I refuse to make that mistake again. Though she may not trust me and resists my attempts to save her, I am determined to shatter the chains that bind her. This time, I will fight with everything I have, standing against the ruthless Russian who claims her as his own—or against the clan I've always known if it comes to that. Clan MacKenzie does not forgive betrayal, and neither will I. This gripping, emotionally charged BWWM romantic thriller dives deep into themes of love, vengeance, and redemption. It's a story rich in intensity and heart, exploring the shadows of trafficking and the painful loss of a child with the utmost care and sensitivity; reader discretion is strongly advised. At its core, this narrative is a powerful journey about finding light in the most desolate places—a relentless battle to reclaim hope, love, and freedom against all odds.

The story is compelling, and it is also available as an audiobook. The narrators did an excellent job of bringing the events to life, keeping listeners engaged as they follow the journey of Jordyn and Jamie.

'Fight For You' was an excellent story that this author gives the reader that you will enjoy from start to the very end.

Sinful Submission: A Dark Why Choose Trilogy Kindle Edition by Stephanie Nicole Norris

Book Excerpt:

"Three men. One woman. When danger and desire collide.

They thrive on the thrill of the chase, unapologetic in their pursuit to consistently hit their mark—or get their woman. Businessmen by day, hitmen by night, these frat brothers live, work, and kill together. They're dangerous, raw, and too ruthless for their best friend's little sister, who should be off-limits to them, especially with an enemy who is constantly circulating in their orbit. They could get her killed if they aren't careful. Yet, one by one, they each get sucked deeper into her intoxicating web as the morally gray lines begin to blur and they realize that the only way to move forward is to succumb to their desires ... and share her.

Resort tycoon Titan Valentine is a merciless, beautiful monster in a tailored suit who dances the thin line between power and danger. Santari Lake mistook his quiet, commanding presence for survival, but she didn't realize she'd become the flame he aches to be consumed by. Every time he holds back, it's not mercy... It's foreplay. And when she finally offers her submission, he loses the hold on his control completely."

Title:  Sinful Submission

Author:  Stephanie Nicole Norris

Publisher:   Love Is A Drug Ink LLC

Series:  A Dark Why Choose Trilogy

Reviewed By:  Arlena Dean

Rating:  Five

Review:

"Sinful Submission" by Stephanie Nicole Norris

My Insight: 

'Sinful Submission: A Dark Why Choose Trilogy' is a complete and satisfying read, offering a window into the world of the Valentines, with a spotlight on Titan and Santari.   The story is presented in a way that will keep you turning the pages, with all your questions answered in this incredible narrative.  To fully appreciate the series, I recommend reading the entire trilogy.  

His Royal Enemy: Elite Alliance (The Royals of Kéra Asnela) Kindle Edition by Stephanie Nicole Norris

 Book Excerpt:

"The crown awaits Prince Remington Winthrope as he prepares to become King of Kéra Asnela. When assassination attempts threaten not only his life but the stability of his kingdom, he turns to the most unlikely royal: Princess Izara of Myriad, the daughter of his imprisoned enemies.

Brought to Winthrope Estate Palace as both informant and prisoner, Izara finds herself caught between loyalty to her homeland and an unexpected attraction to the man who holds her family captive.

Their verbal vitriol creates a hostile relationship, but proximity breeds a dangerous desire that threatens everything they've fought for."

Title: His Royal Enemy

Author:  Stephanie Nicole Norris

Publisher:    Love Is A Drug Ink LLC

Series:  The Royals of Kéra Asnela

Reviewed By:  Arlena Dean

Rating:  Five

Review:

"His Royal Enemy: Elite Alliance" by Stephanie Nicole Norris

My Insight:  

'His Royal Enemy; Elite Alliance' was another excellent read from this author, offering readers some wonderful romance stories. In this series, we are given well-developed characters with a storyline that will keep readers turning the pages to the end, leaving them wanting even more. The storyline of Remington and Izara, who were enemies full of distrust, is so engaging that it will captivate you from the first page. You must pick up this good series to see how it will all turn out for them in the end.

Sparks Fly, Tempers Flare: A Young Adult Teen Drama (Blooming Book 1) Kindle Edition by Dominique Davis

Book Excerpt:

"One Tree Hill meets Friday Night Lights in this binge-worthy series where a teen's homecoming sets off a chain reaction through the community.

After her mother's death, 16-year-old Sloane Crawford reluctantly returns to her childhood home and the drama-filled small town she left behind. Moving in with her estranged father only reopens old wounds from his affair that destroyed her family.

Back at school, tensions flare as Sloane reconnects with old friends who resent her for abandoning them. Especially heated is her rocky relationship with her former best friend, Emory, the daughter of the woman her father betrayed them with.

As Sloane struggles to adapt to her new normal, long-held grudges threaten to boil over. To move forward, she'll have to confront the fractured bonds left in the ashes of her family's traumatic history. But finding forgiveness won't be easy in a place where the past refuses to stay buried."

Title:  Sparks Fly, Tempers Flare: A Young Adult Teen Drama

Author:  Dominique Davis

Published:  D.D.

Series:  Blooming Book 1

Reviewed By:  Arlena Dean

Rating: Four

Review:

'Sparks Fly, Tempers Flare' by  Dominique Davis

My Insight:  

'Sparks Fly, Tempers Flare' weaves a complex web of relationships that leaves Sloane in a challenging situation. After witnessing her father's affair with the mother of her best friend, Emory, and the passing of her own mother, she is forced to return to her father's home. There, she must navigate the intricate dynamics with the woman who ruined her life and the stepsister who was once her closest friend.  The story delves into the complexities of love, friendship, and betrayal, keeping readers intrigued.  

Will Sloane be able to reclaim the love and friendship she so desperately craves, or will the betrayal she experienced continue to haunt her? 

The characters and storyline of 'Sparks Fly, Tempers Flare' are crafted to keep the reader engrossed, eager to see how the author weaves this compelling narrative. The story, filled with love, friendship, and betrayal, will leave readers with much to ponder long after they've turned the last page.

 

My Bully, My Aunt, & Her Final Gift Kindle Edition by Harold Phifer

 Book Excerpt:

"Every Villain doesn’t wear a mask. Sometimes she’s your aunt! Maybe, closure doesn’t come with silence, but with Reflections, Truth, & A Touch of Humor!

In "My Bully, My Aunt, and Her Final Gift", Hal revisits the complicated relationship he shared with his late Aunt Kathy, a woman who stood as the antithesis of positivity in his life. Despite her domineering and often cruel behavior, her passing left Hal with an unexpected opportunity for humor, healing, and reflection.

As he plans her memorial—a gathering that no one seems eager to attend—Hal's childhood memories resurface, pulling him back into a world shaped by his aunt's unpredictable rules and twisted philosophies. Blending heartfelt truths with laugh-out-loud moments, Hal weaves a tale of resilience, self-discovery, and ultimately, redemption. This memoir offers a lighthearted yet honest look at how even the darkest relationships can leave behind gifts of wisdom and self-awareness."

Title:  My Bully, My Aunt, & Her Final Gift

Author:  Harold Phifer

Publisher:  BookBaby

Reviewed By:  Arlena Dean

Rating: Four

Review:

"My Bully, My Aunt, & Her Final Gift" by Harold Phifer

My Insight:  

"My Bully, My Aunt, and Her Final Gift" enveloped me in an emotional journey that lingered in my thoughts long after the final page was turned. Hal's tumultuous experiences with his seemingly pious yet cruel aunt were both shocking and profoundly eye-opening. It’s astonishing to witness how someone could embody such wickedness beneath the polished facade of righteousness. Despite the oppressive shadow cast by his aunt, Hal's resilience radiates brightly, illuminating his path as he navigates this complex and challenging relationship. This powerful narrative compels us to delve deeper into the stark realities of such situations. It truly prompts a haunting question—could this occur in real life? Absolutely! I wholeheartedly recommend this captivating read to anyone yearning for a thought-provoking and emotionally enriching experience!

Possessing the Secret of Joy (The Color Purple Collection Book 3) Kindle Edition by Alice Walker

 Book Excerpt:

"An American woman struggles with the genital mutilation she endured as a child in Africa in a New York Times bestseller, "as compelling as The Color Purple" (San Francisco Chronicle).

In Tashi's tribe, the Olinka, young girls undergo female genital mutilation as an initiation into the community. Tashi manages to avoid this fate at first, but when pressed by tribal leaders, she submits. Years later, married and living in America as Evelyn Johnson, Tashi's inner pain emerges. As she questions why such a terrifying, disfiguring sacrifice was required, she sorts through the many levels of subjugation with which she's been burdened over the years.


In Possessing the Secret of Joy, Alice Walker exposes the abhorrent practice of female genital mutilation in an unforgettable, moving novel.

This ebook features an illustrated biography of Alice Walker, including rare photos from the author's personal collection."

Title:  Possessing the Secret of Joy

Author:  Alice Walker

Publisher:  Open Road Media

Series:  The Color Purple Collection Book 3

Reviewed By:  Arlena Dean

Rating:  Five

Review:

"Possessing the Secret  of Joy" by Alice Walker

My Insight:  

"Possessing the Secret of Joy" courageously tackles the challenging issue of female circumcision, and the author's sensitivity in addressing this complex topic is truly impressive. Although I found it to be a demanding read, I am so thankful I decided to dive in. For those who enjoyed "The Color Purple," you'll be delighted to encounter Tashi, the daughter-in-law of Celie, who makes a heartfelt appearance in this story.

I don't want to give too much away, but I genuinely encourage you to explore "Possessing the Secret of Joy." The author has a unique gift for bringing tough themes to life, and their storytelling is nothing short of extraordinary.

As we navigate the narrative, we are reminded of the tragic reality that many children have suffered due to this practice, with some losing their lives or facing lifelong challenges. While it may be a challenging read, it is incredibly meaningful and opens our eyes to crucial truths that deserve our attention. You won't regret picking this one up!