This is a mature YA/Coming of Age romance novel. LATOYA ANDERSON A good daughter who’s been through hell with a mother who keeps chasing happiness with the wrong kind of men. Surprise isn’t the word for it when Toya learns her mom is engaged to a man she’s never even met. This is yet another crazy decision that Toya would have to help her mom recover from when things fall apart. But nothing prepared her for the scorching hot son of her mom’s fiancé. Something about his brooding blue eyes, a cocky smile, and visible brokenness keep pulling her to him. VAREN KIRBY An enigmatic bad boy who hasn’t dealt with the pain from his mother’s death. He suppresses it with alcohol, pills, and regular hookups. But none of these things satisfy the need in his heart, only leaves a deeper hole to fill. Varen is convinced he’s a lost cause and will never be able to let go of the all-consuming grief, but his new stepsister’s sweet and captivating personality causes a spark so strong, despite his bad habits and fears, he finds it hard to stay away from her. Bit by bit, he starts to feel alive again, and now that he’s found happiness at last, he will fight to hold on to it no matter the cost. Latoya never imagined falling for her stepbrother. Will she go after what she wants for the first time in her life? Or will she sacrifice everything for the sake of her mother, and possibly for her love?

Toya is finally focusing on her own happiness. Despite being far from Varen, everything seems to be working out. Then unexpectedly, news of a loss shakes up her world and leaves her revisiting an old wound. No matter how she tries to conceal it, that proves impossible with the one who is closest to her. Varen had no idea what he would unleash in his intent to help Toya fill the hole in her heart. There’s no putting out the fire once it’s lit, and their life as they know it will change forever. Secrets are exposed, and other issues arise, impacting an already tense long-distance relationship. Both will have to fight for their love if they truly want to hold on to it. \*This is the conclusion to the previous book in the series and cannot be read as a standalone. 18+ for Mature language and scenes. Trope: Stepsiblings romance, Family drama

Cassie It’s the summer before college, and I’ve received an invitation to the Radcliff estate—a place my dad took us from and swore he’d never revisit. I accept my aunt’s peace offering because I want to see my cousin again. However, upon my arrival, I realize he’s changed. Reid is cold and distant. When he does open up, it creates something forbidden between us. I remind him at every attempt that we’re “cousins.” But slowly, those desires become too hard to fight. Reid Seven years ago, my best friend left, and it shattered my heart. Even worse, she never reached out. I was adamant about guarding myself around Cassie. But the closer we get, the more difficult it is to keep my hands off her. Now that she’s in my grasp, I won’t ever let her go. She’s mine. No matter what our family or anyone thinks. \*FIRSTS is a complete standalone forbidden romance. You do not need to read the previous books. Rated 18+ for mature content.