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Rogue #6

Rogue Nights

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Seven tales of romance, hope, and passion. Even after the roughest night, dawn promises new beginnings.

Resisting Desire by Talia Hibbert
Activist, womanist and journalist Nina Chapman is in love with her brother’s best friend. Oops. When her attempt to seduce calm, reliable James Foster backfires, Nina’s mortified—but as much as she’d like to avoid him, she can’t. No; she literally can’t. Because Nina’s latest article has made her public enemy number one, and now the man who broke her heart just might be her only protection…

Dropped Stitches by Annabeth Albert
When activist knitter Bea goes to vote, the last person she expects to run into is her high school crush. The two women forge an unlikely election day connection, but can they see a future beyond the victory party?

Parking Lot Cowboy by Rebecca Crowley
Margot Dunn has spent months making up an elaborate fantasy about the tall, silent cowboy who serves as her fellow volunteer escort at a family planning clinic in Topeka. Then one morning he speaks, and the complicated reality of ranch-hand Tyler Olsen is better than any story she could make up.

Dare to Dream by Hudson Lin
After the 2016 election, Derek Lam kicked his political activism into high gear—it’s what anyone with half a conscious would do. Which is why he doesn’t understand how Diego Ortega, a classmate from law school and a Dreamer, could be so politically disengaged. For Diego, pursuing law had never been about social justice. His priority has always been providing for and protecting his undocumented mother and his kid sister. Getting political did nothing but draw attention his family didn’t need. Working on a class assignment together, Diego and Derek’s mutual attraction bubbles just under the surface. But any potential relationship will have to survive the sparks that fly from their clashing political views.

The Coffee Shop Around the Corner by Shae Connor
Political discourse is Madeline Maloney’s jam. Social media manager for a progressive mayoral candidate, she finds her interest piqued by an email exchange with a local businessman—but also by the cute guy at the coffee shop where she buys her morning cup. Palmer Harrison spends his mornings smiling at the beautiful woman who orders a caramel latte every day and his off hours emailing with a mystery woman who works for a mayoral campaign. Their parallel relationships intersect on Election Day…

Love Your Face by Ainsley Booth
Fifteen years ago, Fred left the Midwest behind and moved to New York City. Return visits have been rocky, and this Thanksgiving promises more family drama Fred really doesn’t want to deal with it. Her best friend’s surprise appearance smooths over a difficult holiday, but raises new, complicated personal feelings when the very straight Ami confesses she’s not very straight after all.

Sacred Son by Robin Covington
Adam Woodson has dedicated his life to fighting for the rights of Native Americans in court and in the legislature, a career that has kept him too busy to regret the man who got away. Judah Nighthorse is rebuilding his life after prison, fighting to regain custody of his son from a non-Native foster family so he swallows his pride and asks the man he left behind for help. When fighting the good fight together sparks desire they can’t resist, they must decide if their future holds a second chance or a final goodbye.

381 pages, Kindle Edition

First published November 8, 2018

24 people are currently reading
484 people want to read

About the author

Talia Hibbert

30 books34.3k followers
Talia Hibbert is a New York Times, USA Today, and internationally bestselling author whose books are available in 15 languages.

Best known for her Brown Sisters series, Talia writes spicy, inclusive romance novels starring complicated characters who make readers feel seen. Talia's debut romantasy will hit shelves in Summer 2026.

A typically cantankerous Brit, Talia's hobbies include chugging cups of tea, eating too many biscuits, and complaining bitterly about the weather.

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Displaying 1 - 30 of 41 reviews
Profile Image for Briar's Reviews.
2,295 reviews579 followers
October 28, 2018
Due to time constraints, I was only able to read Hudson Lin's story. But, if the rest of these stories are half as good as Dare to Dream by Hudson Lin, then this anthology is absolutely fantastic!

This story follows Diego and Derek, two laws students, and their growing bond. Diego is a DACA recipient who learns the importance of standing up for what you believe in. Not only is there some super sexy scenes between Diego and Derek (because, we all know how magical Hudson Lin is with her romance/sexy writing abilities) but there is a lot of character growth within this short story.

I would definitely recommend this anthology series - I've read many of the previous ones. The political themes that are mixed in with romance (and sometimes erotica) make this a unique set of stories that don't fit the typical romance mold. Not all stories will work for all readers, but you are guaranteed to have at least one story you love or can relate to.

My biggest problem was that this story was way too short! I want more from each of these stories!

Five out of five stars!

I received an advanced reader's copy because I am apart of Hudson Lin's ARC review team!
Profile Image for Anne Boleyn's Ghost.
388 reviews69 followers
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November 23, 2022
Finally completed this...nearly four years later. Better late than never! The good fight continues ❤️♡💙

7/7

PARKING LOT COWBOY Rebecca Crowley ★★★★1/2
"Volunteering here was my Election Day resolution. Instead of scrolling through social media feeling angry about a bunch of men on Capitol Hill telling women what to do with their reproductive systems, I decided to do what I could to make them feel safer about exercising their right to bodily autonomy, and show them they'll never be alone."
Loved it. Multiple heart-eye emoji levels of love. Gripping and sweet and painful and uplifting, from the powerful and unabashed pro-woman message to the opposites-attract romance between family planning clinic escorts Margot, a smart and dedicated epidemiologist, and Tyler, a gruff ranch hand with a tortured past and a gentle soul. Two truly good people in a truly good story.

RESISTING DESIRE Talia Hibbert ★★★★
What readers have come to expect and love from Talia Hibbert - engaging, funny, sexy, raw, and sweet. Activist journalist Nina harbors an unrequited love for her older brother's best friend, James. Except it's sooo not unrequited. James is a big beautiful bear of a man, and he is GOALS for romance novel heroes. The way that he admires, supports, and respects Nina? Swoon-worthy, and as it should be.

DARE TO DREAM Hudson Lin ★★★1/2
Poignant and hopeful. Law student Derek aspires to change the country. Diego is a DREAMER who rejects Derek’s political organizing to provide for his younger sister and undocumented mother. A class assignment places them into each other’s orbit, and even as their views clash, they enlighten and help each other. Although the romance felt somewhat lacking in emotional depth, the overall story was stirring.

DROPPED STITCHES Annabeth Albert ★★★1/2

THE COFFEE SHOP AROUND THE CORNER Shae Connor ★★★1/2

LOVE YOUR FACE Ainsley Booth ★★★

SACRED SON Robin Covington ★★★
Profile Image for Maria Rose.
2,631 reviews267 followers
July 16, 2019
Rogue Nights is a multi-author anthology featuring seven new novella length romances, stories of women and men fighting back against political ideologies that seek to disenfranchise women and minorities through racist and oppressive policies. It’s part of the Rogue series that came about as the result of the backlash to recent political events. Featuring people from all walks of life, sexual orientation and race, they are inspirational tales of finding love while fighting the good fight.

Resisting Desire by Talia Hibbert

Grade: A- Sensuality: Warm

Political journalist Nina gets death threats and ends up getting protection from her brother’s best friend James, a man she once slept with who called their night together ‘a mistake’. Her story doesn’t shy away from the reality of how being black affects their relationship with the police and her reluctance to report the threats and trust that they will actually be investigated. It’s also a steamy ‘best friend’s sibling’ trope story with a couple who find their way to a happy ending, even while they deal with the seriousness of the threats. Nina is a very likable heroine who has a strong sense of self-worth and knows the risks of what she writes about, but does it anyway.

Dropped Stitches by Annabeth Albert

Grade: B+ Sensuality: Kisses

This novella tells the tale of high school acquaintances Bea and Kira. Bea has an idealized view of what Kira’s life was like in high school that doesn’t hold up when they meet in a voting line as adults and discover their lives have gone in different directions than expected. It’s an LGBTQ romance and the two women end up becoming real friends, and then lovers. Political activism is at the heart of this tale, with Bea working for the progressive candidate running in the election. Also, knitting makes an appearance; Bea is well described as a knitting activist (making pussy hats for protests) and it’s a great pastime if you are waiting in line to vote (or stressed out watching election returns come in!).

Parking Lot Cowboy by Rebecca Crowley

Grade: A Sensuality: Warm

This story stars two volunteers at a medical clinic that provides abortions. Tyler and Margot meet while providing security escorts for women making use of the clinic’s services who have to contend with religious protesters. Tyler is a smart, quiet cowboy who works full time on a ranch and believes women should be free to seek medical care no matter their circumstances, and Margot is a college-educated woman who decided to volunteer after the last election showed women’s rights being eroded. After volunteering together for a few months the couple finally start talking to each other and this leads to a slow burn romance. Issues in the story include abortion rights, anger, alcoholism, and ex-boyfriends. It’s a really lovely opposites-attract story. Also, I will take any cowboy stories written by this author, please and thank you.

Dare to Dream by Hudson Lin

Grade: A- Sensuality: Warm

Two law school students from different backgrounds are tasked to work on an assignment that shows different sides of controversial topics in this LGBTQ romance. The DACA (Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals) issue is an important one for Diego (who is Mexican) as he is a current DACA recipient, his mother is an undocumented immigrant and his sister was born in the United States. Derek, a Chinese American, is part of an LGBTQ school alliance that protests the administration’s immigration policies and Diego’s sister wants to protest too but Diego fears drawing unnecessary attention to his family, for valid reasons. It’s a poignant story about the current situation of many immigrants in the US, but still provides a sexy romance as Derek and Diego find their attraction to each other worth exploring.

The Coffee Shop Around the Corner by Shae Conner

Grade: B+ Sensuality: Kisses

A sweet romance, The Coffee Shop Around the Corner stars Palmer, a business owner, and Madeline, who is working on a current mayoral campaign. They cross paths at the local coffee shop (run by Palmer) where Mad picks up her usual morning latte. They’ve been unknowingly corresponding by email over infrastructure policies important to the election and only discover their coffee shop link on election day. It’s a flirtatious and lighthearted epistolary romance.

Love Your Face by Ainsley Booth

Grade: A- Sensuality: Warm

In this LGBTQ romance about two female friends, one is gay and the other is figuring out that she is bisexual. It’s also a story that delves into the difficulties many people encounter with their family over political viewpoints that don’t align, and the challenges of how to balance personal happiness with family obligations. Fred has parents who haven’t fully accepted her sexual identity and vote for the opposite party than she does, and her best friend Ami accompanies her home on a stressful Thanksgiving holiday. Standing up for oneself against toxic relationships is at the heart of the novella, and there’s a sweet and sexy romance for Fred and Ami as they discover a mutual attraction.

Sacred Son by Robin Covington

Grade: A Sensuality: Warm

Sacred Son is an LGBTQ romance that looks at the challenges facing Native Americans, in this case a father, Judah, who is trying to gain custody of his son after a stint in jail for robbing a gas station. He bitterly regrets his crime for a multitude of reasons, but mostly because his incarceration meant he couldn’t be there for his son. He’s done his time and his son is in foster care and he needs the help of his ex-boyfriend Adam, who fights for the rights of Native Americans in court. It’s a second chance romance touching on a lot of the difficulties encountered by Native Americans, including the reality of the missing and murdered indigenous women endemic to the US (and Canada)) , and the white man’s beliefs that their ways are superior to others. It’s easy to feel empathy for Judah, for the disadvantages of his upbringing and how hard he has to fight to have the same rights as white people. There is a happy ending, though not without some emotional moments to get there, and a chance for Adam and Judah to rekindle their relationship.

Clearly this anthology doesn’t shy away from tackling some serious current issues. All writing is political (though maybe not quite so overt as this) but more importantly, collections like this show that love is for everyone, no matter what circumstances they find themselves in. If you haven’t had a chance to check out the Rogue series, you can start with any of them and you’ll find similar stories of resistance to the status quo, and perhaps something that strikes a chord within your own life – and a push to do something about it.

This review is also posted at All About Romance: https://allaboutromance.com/book-revi...

https://allaboutromance.com/the-best-...

A copy of this collection was provided by the authors for review.
Profile Image for M.
400 reviews52 followers
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August 20, 2019
This anthology was a mixed bag for me. Talia Hibbert’s Resisting Desire was actual perfection for me, exactly what I was hoping for from a “brothers-best-friend” romance. I enjoyed it so, so much and Talia keeps being one of my queens of novellas and shorts. Dropped Stitches by Annabeth Albert was cute and sweet, but didn’t sweep me off my feet the way I hoped it would. I didn’t get invested in the relationship of the characters as much as I thought I would, considering that it was kind of a second chance, hurt comfort story. It just didn’t touch me enough. 

Parking Lot Cowboy by Rebecca Crowley could have been a winner for me, the writing was lovely and worked for me well enough. Unfortunately it was steeped into rhetoric I don’t deal well with, mainly about reproductive rights being a women-only issue. Honestly, the absolute and unquestioned exclusion of anyone but cis women from the discussions and characters’ thoughts in this story had me wishing for a fast end without looking back. (I exist, thank you very much.) 

Dare to Dream was really, really cute and heart-wrenching, but it did leave me with a smile on my face and a little spark of hope in my heart. Hudson Lin really knows how to do that for me, no matter how short the story. The Coffee Shop Around The Corner by Shea Connor was cute and interesting, the idea and the email exchanges were interesting and fun. Sadly the story suffered the same fate as Parking Lot Cowboy. You can only deny my existence directly and indirectly so much before I’m just not interested in the rest of your story anymore. 

Love Your Face by Ainsley Booth was lovely. Touching and sweet, if a little rushed in the end. The main thing I fell in love with was Fred turning her back on her family and deciding to take a shot at her own happiness instead of suffering through another family holiday making her all-around miserable. Sacred Son by Robin Covington fell flat for me. I couldn’t connect with the writing or the characters and while the story itself was cute and sweet, it also left me kind of cold because of my missing connection and emotional investment.

So yeah, mixed bag overall. But I’m still glad I read it. 
Profile Image for Renegade ♥.
1,339 reviews
September 23, 2019
For Resisting Desire by Talia Hibbert ONLY

4 to 4 1/2 stars

Nina looked straight at the camera, a sad smile on her face. “It makes me feel like the unfairness in the world may never end. But that’s okay, because hope never dies.”

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I enjoy the friends-to-lovers trope when it's done well and TH packed a whole lot of chemistry, humour, connection, affection, and spice into this novella, while also touching on a variety of important issues and providing some food for thought.



“Nina,” he said, his voice low and rough. “What are you trying to do here?”
“You don’t do casual,” she murmured, conscious of his thumb stroking over her pulse. “And I don’t want casual with you. James… I’d never risk our friendship for something I could get anywhere else. You should know that.”
He closed his eyes, a frown creasing his brow, and took a deep breath. “Are you sure about this?”
“I might repeat myself for you, since you’re my favourite person, but I don’t enjoy it,” she said dryly. “Try and take me at my word.”

Image result for black love gif kiss

He huffed out a laugh, amusement lifting his expression. Still, he sounded achingly serious as he said, “Nina. Please tell me you mean it. Because if I get my hands on you again, sweetheart… letting go won’t be easy, let’s put it that way.”
He couldn’t possibly know how those words lit her up inside, how they sent an answering dart of possessiveness through her. “Good,” she said.
He opened his eyes. Their gazes clashed, his golden-brown to her near-black. And then the lust between them, an electrical current dancing just beneath the surface of every interaction, surged to life.
James kissed her. He kissed her, and it was everything.




I'm glad I read this and, as always, I'm looking forward to reading more of Ms. Hibbert's books in future.
Profile Image for Cande.
1,061 reviews192 followers
June 11, 2020
i'm so sorry Talia Hibbert, you deserved better than this mess of anthology.
Profile Image for AJ.
291 reviews12 followers
November 13, 2020
I'm trying to read more romantic stories with feel-good endings and I'm glad I started with this. There is something to unpack about me gravitating to a collection focused on social justice themes - my guesses are a desire for representation, more expansive definition of romance, and honestly some conflict . Resisting Desire by Talia Hibbert, Dropped Stitches by Annabeth Albert, Dare to Dream by Hudson Lin, and Sacred Son by Robin Covington were my favorites because my heart was warmed and I was up late at night flipping through my e-pages seeing how it was resolved. Parking Lot Cowboy by Rebecca Crowley also gets a special shout out because I just was not expecting to feel feelings about the characters but found myself so happy at the end when they got together. If I had to pick favorite-favorites, it would likely be Dare to Dream, Dropped Stitches, and Resisting Desire because the feelings were felt, and I think they incorporated the charge to have a socially relevant setting with the most ease.

I'm really trying to unlearn my tendency toward only "serious-serious" books, so this was good practice suspending some disbelief and enjoying love stories in progress. There were some cringe moments, as well as stories that didn't spark warm feelings but overall, I really enjoyed the read.
Profile Image for Frida.
809 reviews30 followers
December 12, 2018
Resisting Desire by Talia Hibbert

"Are you okay?"
God, why did he have to care about her? And why did she have to love him? Her voice hard, she clipped out, "Obviously."
"You want a hug?"
"I would honestly rather die."


I love Talia's heroines! And, well, her books in general. 5 stars.

Dropped Stitches by Annabeth Albert

Knitting, elections, and old high school crushes. Sweet. 3 stars.

Parking Lot Cowboy by Rebecca Crowley

Cowboy romance that I.... liked...?!? 4 stars.

Dare to Dream by Hudson Lin

I was really drawn in to this story and it definitely made me interested enough to check out this author's books. BUT. The conflict between "loudly protesting" and "just trying to survive, can't afford the attention as it might literally kill me" just didn't make sense to me. Because while it was acknowledged that it is a privilege to be able to protest (loudly) we were still meant to see the other side, I think? I don't know 2 or 3 stars?

The Coffee Shop Around the Corner by Shae Connor

I liked the parallel relationships aspect and the heroine's job (social media responsible for a mayoral candidate) was interesting. But there really wasn't anymore to it. 2 stars.

Love Your Face by Ainsley Booth

But it's 2018. Let's be honest - most straight women who aren't mainlining internalized misogyny like it's cocaine have considered broadening their horizons.

A friends to lovers of the "oops turns out I'm not so straight after all" variety. Quiet but powerful story of family, friendship, acceptance and letting go. 4 stars

Sacred Son by Robin Covington

The romance wasn't very interesting here, which was disappointing since there certainly was potential. The custody battle thing took over which I mean, obviously, it would. 3 stars
Profile Image for Katherine.
5,295 reviews42 followers
April 13, 2021
Resisting Desire by Talia Hibbert
m/f. Lovely and passionate - about race, political bullshit and two people realizing they are in love.

Dropped Stitches by Annabeth Albert
f/f. Sweet second chance romance, and I love the way knitting is woven into the plot. (See what I did there?)

Parking Lot Cowboy by Rebecca Crowley
M/f. The hero is the strong, silent type. And, as the saying goes, still waters run deep - he has a lot of pain, anger and frustration living deep down. The heroine is an earnest woman who is starting to broaden her horizons. They are both volunteers at a nearby abortion clinic. The story is sweet and powerful.

Dare to Dream by Hudson Lin
M/m. Yay for racially diverse characters! So nice to read about non-white people. (Yes, I’m white, and aware of my unearned privilege. But I want to see more characters in my romances that look like the people I see and work with every day.) the story ends in an almost cliffhanger, but it’s perfect. I would have been happy to read a longer story about Diego and Derek.

The Coffee Shop Around the Corner by Shae Conno
m/f. A sweet love story, set in an optimistic world, where the best person wins the mayoral race and the idiot, asshole man loses - by getting caught bad-mouthing contractors that he hired, making racist comments. The love story took a loooong time to develop, or it felt like a long time, even in a short story.

Love Your Face by Ainsley Booth
f/f - sort of? I was honestly unsure about the gender of Fred, one of the two characters in this story. And really, it doesn’t matter. The love story is sweet, an excellent friends-to-lovers story. I hate how awful Fred’s family is, and wish that people didn’t have to go through shit like that.

Sacred Son by Robin Covington
m/m. Old lovers who fell out years ago, meet again, when one man needs help from the others.

Bought from kindle
Profile Image for Athira.
531 reviews30 followers
March 15, 2019
Resisting Desire by Talia Hibbert

4 stars
M/F
I was wary about starting this as it's been a while since I read a m/f story. But I thoroughly enjoyed it. Nina and James were being total idiots-in-love and falling for your sibling's best friend is one of my favourite tropes.

Dropped Stitches by Annabeth Albert

5stars
F/F
I love all of her books and this one isn't any different. Meeting your high school crush after a long? She nailed this. I absolutely loved Bea and Kira. This left me wanting for more.

Parking Lot Cowboy by Rebecca Crowley

5 stars
M/F
Margot and Tyler were adorable together. I loved the characters. The family planning clinic escorts was something I've never read about before and I thank the author for giving me a chance.

Dare to Dream by Hudson Lin

5 stars
M/M
Derek and Diego were amazing!! I loved their little conflict and how Diego finally decided to fight for his dream.


The Coffee Shop Around the Corner by Shae Connor

4 stars
M/F
Who doesn't like coffee shops and baristas? And the two people who have caught your interest is really just one person? Mads and Harris were another amazing couple.

Love Your Face by Ainsley Booth

5stars
F/F
I loved this story to bits!! Best friends to lovers is fav of mine and Fred and Ami make the list of my top couples!

Sacred Son by Robin Covington

5stars
M/M
This is a heartwarming story of redemption and second chances. Adam and Judah went through a lot but finally got the HEA they deserved. I loved Gideon so much. It also made me want to know more about Oliver and Gareth.

Overall I absolutely loved this anthology and every single story in it was something different.
ARC provided by the author in exchange for honest review

Rainbows and Sunshine description
Profile Image for ambsreads.
818 reviews1,584 followers
November 7, 2018
i really loved the political tones of this book a lot more than i thought i would

review to come
Profile Image for Lauren loves llamas.
848 reviews108 followers
November 11, 2018
I’ve read and enjoyed some of these anthologies before, and since there were also several familiar names, I just had to pick this up! There are seven stories included, with two authors – Talia Hibbert and Annabeth Albert – that I’ve read and liked before. Without further ado, here’s individual reviews of the stories:

“Resisting Desire” – Talia Hibbert – ★★★★

I haven’t read much of Ms. Hibbert’s work, but what I have I’ve loved! This is a bit different from what I’ve come to expect from the anthology, as it’s actually set in Britain. Nina runs a website dedicated to independent political reporting, and her latest article on Brexit has led to death threats. Afraid to stay in her own home, and knowing the police will be of no help, she reaches out to her friend James for help. Problem is, things are a bit awkward between the childhood friends after a kiss led to a make out session that blew both their minds. Can they go back to being just friends, or is whatever between them worth risking that friendship to explore? My favorite part of this story is that while Nina leans on James for support, she’s the one who figures out the solution to her problems. Also, Ms. Hibbert doesn’t shy away from the realities of police racism and the double-standards for women in media, especially Black women.

“I can’t wait to watch you make history.”
“I can’t wait to make history together,” I countered.
“The couple that resists together, stays together.”


“Dropped Stitches” – Annabeth Albert – ★★★★

It’s a high school reunion of sorts in voting line when Bea literally runs into Kira, her high school crush. After Bea finds out Kira just got dumped by her girlfriend, she invites her along to the watch party for the political candidate she’s been volunteering for. Kira’s all competent and take-chargey, even when she gets roped into handing out signs for an event she’s just shown up to, and Bea is so kind and thoughtful, she volunteers to help Kira pick up her things from her ex’s place. This was quite sweet, with lots of bonus knitting, and I also liked that they got into an argument, but both women were able to realize where they went wrong and apologize. Overall, this is a sweet second chance story!

“I believe we’ve all got to do our best. For ourselves and for each other. And hope we’re doing right.”


“Parking Lot Cowboy” – Rebecca Crowley – ★★★★

Margot, newly moved to Kansas, spends her Saturday mornings volunteering as a women’s clinic escort with a taciturn (but seriously hot) cowboy. When, after three months, he finally breaks his silence, Margot practically tells him her life story, including inviting him to dinner at the apartment she still shares with her ex-boyfriend. Their relationship moved a bit too fast for me, but I liked that the general bent of the story was against keyboard warriors who are too busy arguing about how to fix everything wrong rather than actually trying to fix things.

“Sometimes we have to do dangerous things when we know they are the right things to do.”


“Dare to Dream” – Hudson Lin – ★★★★

Derek is a bit miffed at his fellow law student and homework partner, Diego, when he schedules their meeting for 10pm and then is half an hour late. It turns out Derek has more things to be upset about – though Diego is a DACA recipient and his mother is an undocumented immigrant, he’s more interested in taking care of his American-born sister than protesting politically. Diego’s frustrated that all Derek seems to see of him is that he’s a Dreamer, not his intelligence or legal skills. Despite the fact that they’ve just met, their relationship felt like it reflected that, so it wasn’t too unbelievable.

“The Coffee Shop Around the Corner” – Shae Connor – ★★★

Madeline, social media manager for a mayoral candidate, doesn’t realize that the cute coffee shop owner is the same person who’s been emailing her thoughtful questions about her candidate’s positions. This was cute, but it felt like it concentrated more on the political stuff than the relationship – like, I now know a lot more about Atlanta’s infrastructure issues than I expected – so I didn’t really get a good sense of the two of them as a couple. I think it’s really hard to write a believable relationship in a novella when the two characters have only just met (rather than relying on them being friends, old flames, etc) and it didn’t quite work for me.

“Love Your Face” – Ainsley Booth – ★★★★

Fred is a decidedly grumpy heroine, frustrated with life and the circumstances that are forcing her back to her hometown and family for Thanksgiving. Ami, her best friend, is a much more positive person, so it’s a really good thing that she surprises Fred by following her home. Fred’s family is set in their ways, refusing to even call her by her chosen nickname and incapable of understanding her job. Ami’s her backup, sticking up for her when her brother and dad once again try to downplay her achievements, and it gives Fred the power to finally realize that she has the ability to chose her own family. It was a sweetly funny take on chosen family and dealing with toxic relationships.

“My sponsor in prison said that second chances were gifts of grace. That wasting them was the ultimate insult to the universe[.]”


“Sacred Son” – Robin Covington – ★★★★

Ten years ago, Judah stomped all over Adam’s heart when he broke up with him before Adam left for college. Now Adam’s back and working with a nonprofit that helps Native Americans with legal issues, and Judah has a case he hopes he’ll accept – regaining custody of his son. This story was particularly heart-wrenching, given the trauma that Judah and his son faced. It was also, I think, a nice example of allyship – Adam needs to learn to follow what Judah wants, not what he thinks would be best for him.

Overall, I thought the collection was excellent, and it was a well-timed palate cleanser given the election this week. Very much recommended if you’re looking for some hopeful contemporary romance that doesn’t ignore the current political climate!

I received this book for free from the authors in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
Profile Image for Eli.
120 reviews2 followers
November 12, 2018
I requested this ARC because there are so many authors in this anthology who have written stories that I just adore. Talia Hibbert, Annabeth Albert (she wrote a f/f story y’all!!), and Hudson Lin were the ones that I knew, but this anthology introduced me to other just as amazing authors.

This book features a lot of racism from different sources in Britain and the United States; political activism feature knitting, marches and immigration policies, publishing articles on Brexit, and abortion clinics and they hate they get.


Resisting Desire by Talia Hibbert:
M/F with two Black characters as the protagonists.

Nina is an amazing activist and journalist who publishes articles explaining the latest Brexit and government moves and how they affect the common population and James is a mechanic and her brother’s best friend.

This story explores how police ignore the problems of the Black community, the racist ideologies of the police themselves, and what it’s like being an honest journalist and how difficult it can be to power through the death threats. This is all mixed in with an amazing romance between the two main characters with fantastic chemistry.


Dropped Stitches by Annabeth Albert:
F/F with a Black main character and a stated bisexual.

Beatrice is a knitting activist and has been pushing for improvements like gender-neutral dress codes for her high school since a young age. She participates in making pussy hats for protests and rallies as well as knitting bombs and has been campaigning for her Democrat candidate.

Kira is a Black on-page bisexual woman who was closeted in high school and was allowed to experiment in college and graduate school. She’s a practitioner and her parents are tough on her as they’re saying she’s not making as much money in her chosen career as she could be and she’s letting them down.

This story is focused on the two women meeting at their polling center and reconnecting after high school. It’s a nice story with a small amount of drama mixed in and I was rooting for the two to get together with their subtle “I don’t know if she’s flirting with me but I’m going to flirt anyway” flirting.


Parking Lot Cowboy by Rebecca Crowley:
M/F

The two main characters volunteer at an abortion clinic as escorts against the protesters. I absolutely loved both of the main characters. Their perspectives were so nice to read. Also! He asks if he could kiss her which is a lovely thing to read.

Margot is an epidemiologist and keeps on top of the political climate happening in America and Tyler is a ranch hand and is not as politically alert. I love the opposites-attract trope.

She is constantly silenced by her ex-boyfriend-current-roommate and his dinner guests that he keeps inviting to their house without asking and I loved how she instantly connected with Tyler once they started talking. It was a really nice story with a great happy ending.


Dare to Dream by Hudson Lin
M/M with a Dreamer from Mexico and an immigrant with a green card.

These two have instant chemistry, including instalust which I don’t mind at all because of how well it’s written. Derek recognizes his privilege which allows him to protest without the fear of getting deported or thrown in jail. I love the fact that Diego eventually comes around to standing up for what he believes in and takes part in a protest. I know that it can be really stressful for some people, so I was delighted when Derek said there were other ways to participate in politics that didn’t include marching.


The Coffee Shop Around the Corner by Shae Connor
M/F

This was a very nice story about a woman – Madeline – working as a social media manager for the progressive mayoral candidate and a small business owner – Palmer – who is asking Madeline on how her policies will impact his business’s future. I loved watching the campaign and how it turned out – this definitely included the conservative candidate failing miserably – and how the emails slowly turned more conversational and personal.


Love Your Face by Ainsley Booth
F/F

This wasn’t my favorite, but was a good story to read. The two characters didn’t seem to have chemistry past being best friends until the final pages.

I did love how Fred didn’t take shit from her family and left when they were starting to seriously affect her mental health and I loved Ami for being supportive no matter what was happening to Fred. There was a small age difference, but nothing major. I especially loved the height difference between the two women.


Sacred Son by Robin Covington
M/M with a Native American.

I adored this story. This is my first story I’ve read by this author, but will definitely be checking out her other things.

This story talks about how foster homes affect Native children as they’re cut off from their culture and are surrounded by white children and are judged for believing differently. Judah is a Native who was sent to jail and because his wife was murdered, his son was sent to live in a foster home off of the reservation. He goes to the other main character – Adam – because he is a lawyer and Judah is hoping he’ll help his case.

Also, the second chances trope is really well written here. This story has stated bisexual and gay representation.

This story also touches on Native women being murdered just for living and the police not being able to – or unwilling to – to close the cases.



I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
1,034 reviews20 followers
November 6, 2018
This is an anthology where one or both of the characters are involved in political activism in one small way or another. It has a little something for everyone with f/m, m/m and f/f couples all finding their HEA.

The first story is the one that spoke to me the most. Resisting Desire by Talia Hibbert is a very passionate story and even though it’s only a short one, it still has so much emotion and pent-up longing in it. James is head over heels in love with his best friend’s little sister, but really messes up his chances with her in a misguided, and belated, attempt at “chivalry”. Nina is terribly hurt by his apparent rejection and resolved to stay away from him, but dangerous circumstances bring the couple some much needed forced proximity and the chance to make things right.

In Dropped Stitches Annabeth Albert brings us a very sweet story about two women finding love with their high school crushes. At first glance it’s very much an opposites attract story, but it’s always dangerous to assume… a lesson Bea has some trouble learning. This was a very enjoyable read, but I missed the emotional intensity and the chemistry that I’ve come to expect from this author. I did love the knitting, and it inspired me to take up one of my own unfinished projects again.

Parking Lot Cowboy is a story that brings up one of the more ugly sides of political activism with pro-life protesters intimidating and harassing women & teenage girls going to family planning clinics for help. I loathe these people. I especially liked shy Tyler with his big heart . Margot was intellectual and very energetic, exactly what was needed to draw Tyler out.

Dare to Dream by Hudson Lin was also a great story. The whole Dreamer aspect making it very relevant and very much a HFN story with the realistic, though hopeful ending. I can certainly understand Diego’s fear and reluctance to draw attention. Derek could have been a little more understanding of that, I think.

The Coffee Shop Around the Corner is based on the ever cute “you’ve got mail” trope, but I wasn’t convinced by the connection the main characters built up, either via e-mail or in real life. Once they meet everything gets intense too fast, in my opinion.

Love Your Face was also not for me. I like the idea of best friends becoming lovers, who doesn’t? But it started off a bit wrong for me with one of the characters implying that most straight women are bi-curious unless they are internalizing misogyny…? I also didn’t like the interactions with the family’s. It felt too all or nothing for me, and I especially couldn’t understand Ami’s decision to basically avoid her family because she didn’t like their meddling or questions. Seems a silly reason, she could also just be upfront about her life and give them a chance to deal with that. She does stand up for Fred, which was lovely, but I just didn’t feel it with this couple.

Sacred Son by Robin Covington was another one of the stories that stood out to me, in a good way. It was interesting to read more about the issues Native Americans face. And nothing is cuter than a single dad who is devoted to his kid. Not to mention the former bad boy trying to make a new life for himself. The only thing that bothered me a little were some of the typo’s, the editing could have been better.
Profile Image for Amanda Gard.
491 reviews14 followers
June 8, 2019
Overall, this was a collection of quality stories. The only issue was most are honestly just too short and lacked a true resolution. I have never read such short little novelettes before, and quite frankly, most left me wanting. With that being said, I'm not a fan of short stories, as I want the full story experience (beginning, background, big bad, and HEA). However, even I cannot deny that these were well written and worth the price. I've included ratings, thoughts, and reviews of each story below for anyone interested.

1. Resisting Desire by Talia Hibbert - 4 Stars
The story pulled me in right from the very start. It was engaging and enjoyable. However, the ending feels wildly incomplete. So much so that I was shocked to read "The End."

2. Dropped Stiches by Annabeth Albert - 5 Stars
A short, but extremely enjoyable little story. This was my first lesbian romance. It was also done in first person, which is not my favorite, but it was done well.

3. Parking Lot Cowboy by Rebecca Crowley - 4.5 Stars
I really liked this one. While I liked Margot well enough, Tyler was fascinating. I felt like the story needed a bit more to feel complete, even a quick epilogue. The suddenness of the ending jarred me enough to knock down a half a star.

4. Dare to Dream by Hudson Lin - 4 Stars
So even though I just realized this whole collection seems intent on providing only snapshots instead of novellas, I did enjoy this story. I liked the MCs, but the storyline could have been better if it was longer. Again, this story was told in first person narrative, but thankfully from both MCs' viewpoint.

5. The Coffee Shop Around the Corner by Shae Connor - 4 Stars
Another enjoyable story with a great premise. I liked the MCs, from the little you actually got to know of them. As per usual with this collection, far too sudden an ending.

6. Love Your Face by Ainsley Booth - 4 Stars
This one felt more complete than the ones I've read so far. It's only my second lesbian romance, and while I did enjoy it, the family drama felt a bit heavy for such a short story. I liked the MCs, but only superficially considering the lack of backstory.

7. Sacred Son by Robin Covington - 5 Stars
Absolutely fantastic!! This story was hands down the best of the collection. The storyline was gripping, the MCs extremely likable, and the ending complete and satisfying. First person again, but told from both sides, so done well overall.
Profile Image for Kara Hildebrand (Two Book Pushers).
1,756 reviews143 followers
November 8, 2018
Dropped Stiches is Annabeth Albert's addition to the Rogue Nights Anthology. It's Annabeth's first f/f and the first one I've read and I loved it. Bea is a political activist and also a knitter and she runs into her high school crush on election night. Kira is just coming off a bad breakup but reconnecting with Bea and being forced to go out and have fun is just what she needed. Bea and Kira feel the sparks between them, but is it just a rebound or can they shed their pasts and try to move on together? I loved this story! It's short but full of emotion and meaning. Bea and Kira have strong beliefs and together they are honest, open and see their future. Yes, Annabeth, we want MORE!


Sacred Son by Robin Covington's new second chance novella. Judah and Adam were teenagers who were each other's firsts. Now they are grown men. Adam is a lawyer who fights for the rights of Native Americans and Judah is fighting to get his son back. Judah knows Adam can help him, but will he. Adam never stopped thinking about Judah and seeing him again brought back all those memories. Of his first love and his first heartbreak. Can they work together to get Judah's son back? Will they have a second chance at love? This story was so fantastic! It was short, hot and meaningful. There are real issues involved and so much emotion and heart. Overall, I laughed, cried, got hot and bothered and really, really need more of Adam and Judah!


His eyes were eating me alive, visually caressing my face and my body like they were still his and I realized I that I wanted him to possess me, to make me his again.
Profile Image for Eileen.
2,675 reviews
November 13, 2018
I totally enjoyed Judah and Adam’s story in Sacred Son by Robin Covington. This the only story I have read so far in the anthology Rogue Nights, book six in the Rogue series. This is a hot m/m story involving the attraction and history between Judah and Adam. Ten years ago Judah and Adam ended an intense relationship, as Judah did not want to keep Adam from pursuing his law degree at an Ivy League college. Since then, Adam has made a career for fighting for the rights of Native Americans in court and the legislature. Judah has been rebuilding his life after prison and fighting to regain custody of his son from a non-Native foster family. Judah decides to ask Adam for help with his case, despite there being bad feelings between them. The sparks of attraction and desire did not die out during their separation and they struggle to resist each other. These two need to decide if their future allows for a second chance or a final goodbye between them.

Ms. Covington wrote an emotional and moving story filled with sexual chemistry, fun dialogue, and endearing characters that is not to be missed. I highly recommend Sacred Son to other readers.
Profile Image for kgagnon.
2,377 reviews1 follower
November 9, 2018
This anthology is a collection of seven tales of romance, hope, passion, and the promise of new beginnings.

~ Sacred Son by Robin Covington This is a beautiful, moving and steamy second chance romance. Adam Woodson and Judah Nighthorse were young lovers. They were on two very different paths and Judah did not want to hold Adam back so he walked away from the man he loved, breaking both their hearts. Now years later, Judah needs Adam to help him get his son back. Neither has forgotten the other and can't deny how much they still care for each other. But Judah's son, Gideon, must come first, no matter how much they want to explore their feelings for each other. This is a beautiful and moving story of redemption, trust, and love. I really connected and cared for Adam, Judah, and Gideon. They are complex characters that have so much to say and I would love more of them. Their story was quick, and satisfying, and I really hope to see them again!

I have only read this story so far but am excited to check out the rest of this anthology and find new favorite authors!
Profile Image for Nickole.
1,473 reviews9 followers
November 5, 2018
Rcvd an advanced reader copy from the authors for giving my two cents. A great collection of short stories. In Resisting Desire, blogger Nina is in love with her brothers bff and when he basically denies her she is mortified and tries to cut off ties to mend her heart. But when her latest story has people after her she can only go to James for protection. In Coffee Shop Around the Corner, we have coffee shop owner Palmer wanting to ask Maddy out on date but always misses his chance. As a businessman he wants the politicians of the city to do good and corresponds daily with a candidates PR rep whixh entails witty banter. Madeline needs her daily coffee fix with running PR for the election and she gets excited from her email buddy regarding daily mishaps and food for thought. But what will happen when they realize its each other they are chatting with evrhto they see one another daily at coffee?
Profile Image for Stephanie Landis.
141 reviews
February 13, 2019
3.5 stars
I bought this anthology because I heard Anabeth Albert was part of it. Surprisingly, her story did not turn out to be my favorite. I found most of the book to be entertaining and cute, and enjoyed the political and social justice aspects that made the stories unique. But even with that uniqueness factor, not many of these stood out for me. My favorites were Parking Lot Cowboy by Rebecca Crowley and Dare to Dream by Hudson Lin. I'd never read anything by either author but will definitely be checking their stuff out now. The last story Sacred Son by Robin Covington suffered from obvious editing errors that really killed my enjoyment of the story. It would've ranked up with the other two as favorites but the mistakes were distracting and were a poor closing for an otherwise decent book.
Profile Image for Nicole.
4,250 reviews52 followers
November 11, 2018
Sacred Son~
4.5 stars
This is the only book I've read so far in the anthology. If you're a fan on MM Romance then I highly recommend Robin Covington's writing because she does this genre justice. I always get sucked right into the story. This book was no different. It made me wish this longer than novella length. It's a great second chance story. I could feel the emotion rolling off the characters while reading this. I could also feel the connection between Adam and Judah. I was really intrigued be the life on the reservation. It really got me thinking. Great job by Robin on this one. It's definitely one I didn't want to end.
Profile Image for Elle Sabine.
Author 17 books18 followers
November 17, 2018
Seven stories of progressive, politically active wonder and love. I adore this collection and recommend it for most everyone.

I purchased it for the @taliahibbert novella, but every romantic story (some in the LGB, but not T, spectrum) that followed nurtured my soul. I mean, it's not realistic that everything turns up roses in romance or political races and activism, but it's so refreshing to read stories about protests, elections, voting and supporting human rights, in California AND Kansas, and other places, too.

The first story of the anthology (Talia Hibbert) is set in Great Britain, but the other novellas are set in the United States.
316 reviews3 followers
November 10, 2018
I have always love Robin Covington’s work so when I saw her name on this anthology I had to buy it. I promptly skipped all the others and dive right into her contribution. Jude and Adam are hawt with a capital H. The second chance genre always strikes a cord in me cause of my own second chance romance. Thank you Robin for showing all how pure same sex love can be! I’ll be back to review more once I read them ;)
Profile Image for Jennifer.
2,327 reviews38 followers
March 25, 2020
Resisting Desire by Talia Hibbert - Alright short story. Didn't absolutely love it like the rest of this authors books, but it was fine.

Parking Lot Cowboy by Rebecca Crowley - I have a hard time with short stories normally, and this one was okay but did feel a bit rushed towards the end.

The Coffee Shop Around the Corner by Shae Connor - This was cute. I love the whole we were writing each other and didn't know it, but also had a crush on each other thing.
Profile Image for Carla Krissinger.
588 reviews12 followers
November 8, 2018
Sacred Son by Robin Covington

Robin writes really great stories. I love that even in a novella, she can create such feelings for the characters that you forget it’s only a short story. I only wish we could dive more into the background of Adam’s work with the Project and find out what happened to Gideon’s mom. Maybe this could be a suspense book by RC?
Profile Image for Mel González.
464 reviews63 followers
November 20, 2018
I could honestly read entire books of all these stories.

Resisting Desire by Talia Hibbert: 5☆
Dropped Stitches by Annabeth Albert: 3☆
Parking Lot Cowboy by Rebecca Crowley: 3☆
Dare to Dream by Hudson Lin: 4☆
The Coffee Shop Around the Corner by Shae Connor: 4☆
Love Your Face by Ainsley Booth: 4.5☆
Sacred Son by Robin Covington: 5☆
Profile Image for Sara.
2,327 reviews40 followers
December 3, 2018
Nice collection

I’m not a huge fan of short stories. I find they’re mostly just... too short and I’m usually left wishing each one was longer. I bought this mainly for the Talia Hibbert story and I really enjoyed it. My second favorite is the last one by Robin Covington. The rest were just meh for me. Short stories aren’t my thing. Lol. :)
Profile Image for Elizabeth.
482 reviews
December 5, 2018
I was a little disappointed that I wasn't able to count these as individual books, but it's probably for the best because they really are just short stories, somewhere between 50 and 75 pages long.

I enjoyed many of these and would like to look for additional books by several of the authors.

Final Grade: B
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