Books matching: contemporary settings
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- #1
In "Burn for Me," Nevada Baylor, a tough young woman running her family's private investigation firm, is faced with a challenging case involving a dangerous rogue magic user. Forced to team up with the darkly tempting billionaire Connor Mad Rogan to stay alive, Nevada must navigate a world where magic users are classified based on their abilities and powerful magic houses dominate society. The story unfolds in a modern-day Houston setting intertwined with magic, fantasy, politics, and military elements, with a focus on Nevada's determination, Rogan's complex character, and the slow-burn romance between them.
All men are liars. All women are liars, too. I learned that fact when I was two years old and my grandmother told me that if I was a good girl and sat still, the shot the doctor was about to give me w... - #2
"Forbidden Pleasures" by M.S. Parker revolves around Jenna Lang, a strong and independent woman who has survived a traumatic past involving abuse. When she meets Rylan Archer, a successful CEO, their relationship takes a complicated turn as they navigate past traumas and emotional barriers. The plot delves into themes of love, trust, overcoming past demons, and exploring the complexities of BDSM relationships. The writing style is described as intense, emotional, and engaging, with well-constructed characters and steamy yet tastefully done erotic scenes.
I finished up at Khan and Associates in good time, my annoyance at what had happened driving me to get done and get out as soon as possible. Fortunately, Ms. Khan left me alone to do my work, so I did... - #3
In "Magic Bites" by Ilona Andrews, readers are introduced to Kate Daniels, a strong and tough mercenary living in a post-apocalyptic Atlanta where magic and technology alternate in dominance. Kate's investigations lead her to battle psychotic creatures, navigate complex power dynamics between different supernatural factions, and uncover dark mysteries that threaten the fragile balance of her world. The writing style is described as dark and intense, with detailed world-building that seamlessly blends elements of magic and technology, creating a unique and captivating urban fantasy setting.
The plot follows Kate as she delves into a series of gruesome killings, facing necromancers, werewolves, vampires, and other mystical beings along the way. The story moves at a fast pace, keeping readers on the edge of their seats with thrilling action scenes and unexpected twists. Kate's character is praised for her strength, wit, and relatability, adding depth to the narrative as she navigates the challenges of her dangerous and unpredictable environment.
I SAT AT A TABLE IN MY SHADOWY KITCHEN, STARING down a bottle of Boone’s Farm Hard Lemonade, when a magic fluctuation hit. My wards shivered and died, leaving my home stripped of its defenses. The TV ... - #4
Abby Sinclair, a master assassin with a dark and dangerous personality, finds herself in a mission gone wrong in Columbia. Rescued by a team of mercenaries, she is forced to trust others for the first time, particularly Kane Woodland, a former Navy SEAL. The book follows their mission to save kidnapped girls from a sex slaver, all while navigating trust issues and complex emotions. Elle Kennedy's writing style keeps the reader engaged with a mix of action, suspense, and passionate romance, highlighting Abby's transformation from a victim to a strong, fearless woman.
Abby cranked open her right eye—the left one was too swollen—and stared up at the harsh face of her captor. It was an unpleasant face, a menacing one. Pale blue eyes cold enough to freeze an ocean, ho... - #5
'Fated Blades' by Ilona Andrews is a fast-paced and action-driven story set in the Kinsmen universe. It follows the leaders of two rival families, Ramona Addler and Matias Baena, as they are forced to work together to uncover a corporate theft that threatens both their families. The story is filled with well-choreographed fight scenes, intricate world-building, and a slowly developing relationship between the main characters. The plot is a mix of space opera elements, romance, and family drama, all set in a futuristic world where humans have been technologically enhanced for survival and warfare.
Rituals brought order to the chaos of life. Order was something Matias Baena deeply cherished, and so every Monday, at precisely 7:00 a.m., he entered his office on the top floor of the twisted blade ...
(Also, see 100 recommendations for the series Kinsmen ) - #6
Act Like It follows the story of stage actress Elaine who is pressured into a fake relationship with her grumpy co-star Richard in order to improve his public image and boost ticket sales for their play. Despite their initial reluctance, Elaine and Richard's banter and interactions lead to a developing relationship that surprises them both. Set in London's West End, the book explores the complexities of high-profile careers, fake relationships turning real, and the dynamics of the theater world.
Almost every night, between nine and ten past, Lainie Graham passionately kissed her ex-boyfriend. She was then gruesomely dead by ten o’clock, stabbed through the neck by a jealous rival. If she was ... - #7
'Jane Doe' by Victoria Helen Stone follows the story of Jane, a self-diagnosed sociopath seeking revenge on the man who caused her best friend's death. The plot revolves around Jane's calculated plan to infiltrate Steven Hepsworth's life, all while maintaining a facade of vulnerability and innocence. Through the eyes of Jane, readers are taken on a dark and suspenseful journey as she navigates her twisted path of vengeance, showcasing a unique writing style that delves into the mind of a sociopathic protagonist.
He’s a man who likes to think he’s in charge. He’s afraid of women who come on strong. How could you ever control a girl that bold? So I only watch through my lashes and keep my face turned toward my ... - #8
'Dante' by Bethany-Kris is a mafia romance that tells the story of Dante Marcellos and Catrina Danzi. Catrina, a strong and independent queen pin, proposes an arranged marriage to Dante, a mafia Don, for mutual benefit. As their relationship evolves, they navigate through business dealings, secrets, and danger, all while developing a heated love story. The writing style is described as engaging, with a focus on mafia dynamics, strong female characters, and intense romance without instant love clichés.
Dante blinked, his hands balling into fists at his sides. The large wall-to-wall windows overlooked the city, a sight so familiar to him that he found it comforting. He spent eight hours a day, six da...
(Also, see 58 recommendations for the series Filthy Marcellos ) - #9
Tinderbox by Rachel Grant is a gripping romantic suspense novel set in the volatile region of the Horn of Africa. The story follows Dr. Morgan Adler, a paleoanthropologist, and Master Sergeant Pax Blanchard as they navigate danger, politics, and romance while trying to protect a significant archaeological find from ruthless warlords and political machinations. The writing style is described as smart, suspenseful, and well-researched, with a focus on realistic character development and intricate plot twists that keep readers on the edge of their seats.
Morgan Adler’s gaze darted between the cloud of dust in her rearview mirror and the road in front of her. Two more miles. She was going to make it. With the American embassy closed, Camp Citron, a US ... - #10
In 'Ninth House' by Leigh Bardugo, the story revolves around Galaxy Alex Stern, a survivor dealing with a traumatic past who is recruited to oversee the mystical activities of the secret societies at Yale. As part of House Leathe, the ninth house, Alex becomes entangled in a web of dark secrets, disappearances, and murder on campus. The book delves into themes of trauma, magic, violence, and the power dynamics within the elite circles of Yale, creating a world where the supernatural intertwines with the everyday struggles of its characters. The writing style is described as dark, compelling, and filled with vivid descriptions that transport readers to the atmospheric setting of Yale University.
By the time Alex managed to get the blood out of her good wool coat, it was too warm to wear it. Spring had come on grudgingly; pale blue mornings failed to deepen, turning instead to moist, sullen af...