What do you think?
Rate this book
Mercy Ravens MC #1
Lips on My Heart
Not all the best decisions in life come from making logical choices. Going off the path most chosen sometimes brings you to where you were always meant to be.
Josephine Holland doesn’t veer from the path of least resistance. She may appear fragile like a pixie, but Josephine takes control like a dictator with a Napoleon Complex. An awful ex-boyfriend has left her with a sour taste for any future relationships. Josephine wipes the slate clean for a fresh start in Fort Collins, Colorado. With no time for nonsense, Josephine busies herself with her start-up design company and hopes for the best.
Maceo Tabares, a man who oozes trouble, is only interested in no-strings-attached hookups. The former Navy SEAL’s life is dangerous, and a target is always on his back. A relationship would only complicate things. Tired of the vagabond lifestyle, he chooses Fort Collins as his headquarters for his crew, with plans of expanding his security company. Maceo longs for stability, but having an old lady to share his life with is not in the cards.
So when a chance encounter on a hiking trail has these two conflicting characters running into each other—literally—neither one is interested in anything beyond a stolen moment. What neither of them expected was for a spark to form after that single encounter—a spark that would burn down their defensive walls and throw their clear-cut paths into unfamiliar territory.
Josephine’s reaction is to flee while Maceo’s is to pursue.
Josephine has no intentions of seeing Maceo again, but fate intervenes. When she meets her new client, Atlas, President of the Mercy Ravens MC, she comes face-to-face with Maceo, and all bets are off.
When a potential stalker puts Josephine in danger, Maceo will stop at nothing to protect the woman who has consumed his life. Several hurdles must be cleared for them to have a fighting chance, but will their love be enough fight off all those that want to to do them harm? Will love conquer all for these two headstrong lovers?
Lips On My Heart is the first book in the Mercy Ravens MC series.
Josephine Holland doesn’t veer from the path of least resistance. She may appear fragile like a pixie, but Josephine takes control like a dictator with a Napoleon Complex. An awful ex-boyfriend has left her with a sour taste for any future relationships. Josephine wipes the slate clean for a fresh start in Fort Collins, Colorado. With no time for nonsense, Josephine busies herself with her start-up design company and hopes for the best.
Maceo Tabares, a man who oozes trouble, is only interested in no-strings-attached hookups. The former Navy SEAL’s life is dangerous, and a target is always on his back. A relationship would only complicate things. Tired of the vagabond lifestyle, he chooses Fort Collins as his headquarters for his crew, with plans of expanding his security company. Maceo longs for stability, but having an old lady to share his life with is not in the cards.
So when a chance encounter on a hiking trail has these two conflicting characters running into each other—literally—neither one is interested in anything beyond a stolen moment. What neither of them expected was for a spark to form after that single encounter—a spark that would burn down their defensive walls and throw their clear-cut paths into unfamiliar territory.
Josephine’s reaction is to flee while Maceo’s is to pursue.
Josephine has no intentions of seeing Maceo again, but fate intervenes. When she meets her new client, Atlas, President of the Mercy Ravens MC, she comes face-to-face with Maceo, and all bets are off.
When a potential stalker puts Josephine in danger, Maceo will stop at nothing to protect the woman who has consumed his life. Several hurdles must be cleared for them to have a fighting chance, but will their love be enough fight off all those that want to to do them harm? Will love conquer all for these two headstrong lovers?
Lips On My Heart is the first book in the Mercy Ravens MC series.
346 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 28, 2020
440 people are currently reading
939 people want to read
About the author
M.J. Marino
17 books221 followersM.J. Marino—the quirky steamy romance author in the white glasses with the hankering for dirty jokes. M.J. writes steamy insta-love romance novels with strong-willed females and OTT-protective males. She focuses on the love story, and adds plenty of spice, suspense, and comedy, bringing it all together with a happily-ever-after and a teaser for her next book. M.J. lives in Waukesha, Wisconsin with her family. Aside from writing, M.J. is often found reading a juicy romance, cursing up a storm as she rips weeds out of her garden, listening to music while singing along, chugging coffee to stay focused at her computer, and enjoying a bourbon—lots of bourbon.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 131 reviews
September 8, 2021
"Come on, don’t be mad at me. Baby, if you let me in, I promise to do that little tickle thing with my tongue that you love.” <----- THATS WHAT MADE ME GET THIS!!!
.
.
MACEO!!! That man was a true alpha and knew what he wanted and he wasn't a manwhore when he set his eyes on Jo nothing matter. She was it he was thinking future kids and all that!! And how they met well let's say it was all thanks to Hades 🐶 and believe me guys they start off with a BANG!! Jo and Mac had chemistry the first second they met Jo did try to fight it but with a Biker guy like Mac nope that went out the window.. but it's not all sunshine and rainbows Mac did mess up on accident when he assumed Jo knew the deal about a mission he went on since he did explain his job with trafficking.. but he didn't inform her well and that had them on icy grounds when they were separated for few weeks with him over seas.. be that mad was faithful and growly when Jo ex came strolling back in. Beside the drama of that we also had few club brothers who were awesome and few club bunnies who were okay (expect one)
Ups and downs and more danger these two were rock soild and I loved every second of it. And I just released its book 1. There still few bad guys in the dark coming for out couple but they got this. I hope I still love Mac in book 2 and 3.
Om drama tiny ow drama (a club bunny but h puts her in her place) no cheating, secondary character, drama, Sexy times, no virgins celebit 3 months
Recommend-yes
Cover-⭐⭐⭐⭐
Heat level-🌶🌶🌶
Instalove
Tiny push away from h
Mentions of human trafficking
Seperation few weeks (H had a mission)
Misunderstanding
Almost Sexual assault
Violence
Tiny ptsd
No condom
Hea
Epilogue
.
.
MACEO!!! That man was a true alpha and knew what he wanted and he wasn't a manwhore when he set his eyes on Jo nothing matter. She was it he was thinking future kids and all that!! And how they met well let's say it was all thanks to Hades 🐶 and believe me guys they start off with a BANG!! Jo and Mac had chemistry the first second they met Jo did try to fight it but with a Biker guy like Mac nope that went out the window.. but it's not all sunshine and rainbows Mac did mess up on accident when he assumed Jo knew the deal about a mission he went on since he did explain his job with trafficking.. but he didn't inform her well and that had them on icy grounds when they were separated for few weeks with him over seas.. be that mad was faithful and growly when Jo ex came strolling back in. Beside the drama of that we also had few club brothers who were awesome and few club bunnies who were okay (expect one)
Ups and downs and more danger these two were rock soild and I loved every second of it. And I just released its book 1. There still few bad guys in the dark coming for out couple but they got this. I hope I still love Mac in book 2 and 3.
Om drama tiny ow drama (a club bunny but h puts her in her place) no cheating, secondary character, drama, Sexy times, no virgins celebit 3 months
Recommend-yes
Cover-⭐⭐⭐⭐
Heat level-🌶🌶🌶
Instalove
Tiny push away from h
Mentions of human trafficking
Seperation few weeks (H had a mission)
Misunderstanding
Almost Sexual assault
Violence
Tiny ptsd
No condom
Hea
Epilogue
April 1, 2023
Story: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Trope: MC
Angst: 😱😱😱
Smexy: 🔥🔥🔥🔥
I've been following MJ Marino on Insta for a while and yesterday I was like, hmmmm why haven't I read her before? Then I started reading Lips on My Heart and fell in love. The writing is fantastic, TONS of witty banter, and hot smexy times. The storyline has great suspense elements and is super engaging and then at 85% I remembered why I hadn't read her before... it ends on a soft cliffy - the first of 3 books about the same couple which I try to avoid at all costs 🙈. I do make exceptions though, for writing I love and when I can tell the author isn't creating angst for the sake of angst just to add another book. This couple is definitely going to have a rollercoaster on their way to happiness, but the heroes all in and I'm just going to buckle up at this point :) Can't wait to see how this all plays out!
⛔️ My bookshelves can sometimes be spoilers
Trope: MC
Angst: 😱😱😱
Smexy: 🔥🔥🔥🔥
I've been following MJ Marino on Insta for a while and yesterday I was like, hmmmm why haven't I read her before? Then I started reading Lips on My Heart and fell in love. The writing is fantastic, TONS of witty banter, and hot smexy times. The storyline has great suspense elements and is super engaging and then at 85% I remembered why I hadn't read her before... it ends on a soft cliffy - the first of 3 books about the same couple which I try to avoid at all costs 🙈. I do make exceptions though, for writing I love and when I can tell the author isn't creating angst for the sake of angst just to add another book. This couple is definitely going to have a rollercoaster on their way to happiness, but the heroes all in and I'm just going to buckle up at this point :) Can't wait to see how this all plays out!
⛔️ My bookshelves can sometimes be spoilers
February 22, 2023
Ok I actually DNF’d this book a couple months ago because I really wasn’t liking it, well I ended up picking it back up for some reason and I’m so glad I did! This is one of my new favorite books! Maceo 😍🥰🥰😍🥰😍ugh I love him ! I really liked Josephine too! I love men who cry and talk to their dogs over the phone 🥹 tbh Maceo was kind of a cry baby and I kinda live for that 😂
October 22, 2021
Not my cuppa
I’m a sucker for alpha bikers and was excited to read this one. But I feel it was too extra… extra possessive, extra tears, extra drama, just…extra!
I understand Maceo is an overprotective, alpha ex navy Seal and has gone through a lot during his lifetime so he’s supposed to be this hardened, cool-headed, calm and intelligent biker president. But the way he has lost his £|¥t in this book says the contrary. He was always crying, yelling, losing his temper, sobbing, I mean…I understand the need to show his weakness is Jo, but this was too much.
Then there’s the fact that Jo was ALWAYS ogled by some man. Apparently, she’s the ONLY drop dead gorgeous woman in all the land because everyone: the cops, the waiters, the security guards, the hairdresser, EVERY male in her vicinity wanted her. I literally rolled my eyes every time it was mentioned that she was the hottest girl to ever exist. How did she survive so long without Maceo’s protection and possessiveness?
Also, and this is SPOILER ALERT!!
.
.
.
.
.
Whyyyy were they bunking with the other guys in the same room?? Like, WTF? Couldn’t maceo get a bigger house to rent? If he was a billionaire, at least rent two houses! Or get a hotel room! I couldn’t get past it. Every time it was mentioned that Maceo didn’t want another male looking at Jo, but Hey! They are bunking with two other guys in a single bed and she’s constantly braless and in her underwear around the guys, I would ask myself WHYYYYYY? It was just so illogical to me. I know it’s fiction, but it needs common sense!
This is my first book by this author and sadly I don’t think I will be continuing with this series, but I would read something else by her.
I’m a sucker for alpha bikers and was excited to read this one. But I feel it was too extra… extra possessive, extra tears, extra drama, just…extra!
I understand Maceo is an overprotective, alpha ex navy Seal and has gone through a lot during his lifetime so he’s supposed to be this hardened, cool-headed, calm and intelligent biker president. But the way he has lost his £|¥t in this book says the contrary. He was always crying, yelling, losing his temper, sobbing, I mean…I understand the need to show his weakness is Jo, but this was too much.
Then there’s the fact that Jo was ALWAYS ogled by some man. Apparently, she’s the ONLY drop dead gorgeous woman in all the land because everyone: the cops, the waiters, the security guards, the hairdresser, EVERY male in her vicinity wanted her. I literally rolled my eyes every time it was mentioned that she was the hottest girl to ever exist. How did she survive so long without Maceo’s protection and possessiveness?
Also, and this is SPOILER ALERT!!
.
.
.
.
.
Whyyyy were they bunking with the other guys in the same room?? Like, WTF? Couldn’t maceo get a bigger house to rent? If he was a billionaire, at least rent two houses! Or get a hotel room! I couldn’t get past it. Every time it was mentioned that Maceo didn’t want another male looking at Jo, but Hey! They are bunking with two other guys in a single bed and she’s constantly braless and in her underwear around the guys, I would ask myself WHYYYYYY? It was just so illogical to me. I know it’s fiction, but it needs common sense!
This is my first book by this author and sadly I don’t think I will be continuing with this series, but I would read something else by her.
June 28, 2022
4.5*
This book was honestly phenomenal. From the comedy to the writing to the romance, everything was perfect. I really liked Jo, the h, she seemed genuine and sweet, and the way she stuck up for Opal in the scene agonist Candy was absolutely amazing. And the way she tested her with her knowledge of the H’s d*ck, was very very entertaining. I loved her relationships with the people around her, and I think the author did her justice.
Now, on to Maceo. Maceo was once upon a time a cold horny bachelor, saying he’d never settle down blah blah blah. Until Jo comes along, and god, the grovelling was so good. It felt much longer than a day until they got together. He was the cutest in all aspects.
And a special mention to my favourite characters in the book, Opal and Punk. Punk was a living icon. Everything that came out of his mouth was legendary and I thought he was the funniest thing about the book. And for Opal, I’ve always had a sweet spot in my heart for soft sensitive girls and Opal was just that. I’m so so so excited about reading her book with Gauge and I pray he doesn’t screw it up cause I won’t accept him hurting sweet Opal.
Definitely recommend, especially on a night your in the mood for a sappy sweet romance.
Spice was a good 3/5
This book was honestly phenomenal. From the comedy to the writing to the romance, everything was perfect. I really liked Jo, the h, she seemed genuine and sweet, and the way she stuck up for Opal in the scene agonist Candy was absolutely amazing. And the way she tested her with her knowledge of the H’s d*ck, was very very entertaining. I loved her relationships with the people around her, and I think the author did her justice.
Now, on to Maceo. Maceo was once upon a time a cold horny bachelor, saying he’d never settle down blah blah blah. Until Jo comes along, and god, the grovelling was so good. It felt much longer than a day until they got together. He was the cutest in all aspects.
And a special mention to my favourite characters in the book, Opal and Punk. Punk was a living icon. Everything that came out of his mouth was legendary and I thought he was the funniest thing about the book. And for Opal, I’ve always had a sweet spot in my heart for soft sensitive girls and Opal was just that. I’m so so so excited about reading her book with Gauge and I pray he doesn’t screw it up cause I won’t accept him hurting sweet Opal.
Definitely recommend, especially on a night your in the mood for a sappy sweet romance.
Spice was a good 3/5
September 9, 2021
Such a great read!
Author MJ Marino has given readers a rare gem with Lips On My Heart, one that's a wonderful mix of action, humor, sweet romance, and smoking-hot sex.
Maceo is a retired Navy SEAL who now runs an MC along with his new security firm. With his possessive/obsessive nature, he was all Alpha.
I need more of her and it terrifies me.It's almost impossible to find an MC romance that's not dripping with misogyny . . . until now.
Author MJ Marino has given readers a rare gem with Lips On My Heart, one that's a wonderful mix of action, humor, sweet romance, and smoking-hot sex.
Maceo is a retired Navy SEAL who now runs an MC along with his new security firm. With his possessive/obsessive nature, he was all Alpha.
"I will lay my life on the line to protect what is mine, to protect you."And he would have run roughshod over Josephine if she'd let him. But Josephine doesn't take bull from anyone.
"If you wanted candy-coating, you came to the wrong girl."These two were so much fun together. I loved the way the similarities in their personalities created moments of heat and humor.
Sometimes his authoritative behavior is sexy, and other times I want to kick him in the butt.If you're looking for . . .
✔ an MC romance sans misogyny. . . you've found your next read!
✔ romantic suspense
✔ an OTT, possessive Alpha
✔ a smart, unapologetic heroine
✔ laugh out loud moments
✔ quality sexy times
May 17, 2021
This book dang near snuck up on me and ended up completely owning me late into the night and every free moment today. I was so consumed with all things Maceo and Josephine from their literal run in, right up to their first kiss just a few minutes later, all the way until the last page of this amazing book. My brain so immersed in this tale, I immediately had to KU the next book.
I instantly clicked with these characters. Sometimes it just happens that way and it’s like you have read about them for years. Like you know them and their whole life and everything just makes sense. Like their lives are so deeply embedded in your soul.
Maceo and Jo’s story was absolutely fantastic. It had me on the edge of my seat so many times and biting my nails wondering who was behind everything that was happening to them. Would they find them? Would they make them pay for their sins? Would they make it out of this nightmare untouched and unblemished? Would I? My heart took such an emotional beat down.
And I honestly don’t think I saw one error or anything. If there was, it was so minor. It’s been sometime since I read a book so completely edited to perfection. For that I say thank you and great job.
This new to me author, just stole my next few days as I inhale the remainder of this series. 5 Stars!!
I instantly clicked with these characters. Sometimes it just happens that way and it’s like you have read about them for years. Like you know them and their whole life and everything just makes sense. Like their lives are so deeply embedded in your soul.
Maceo and Jo’s story was absolutely fantastic. It had me on the edge of my seat so many times and biting my nails wondering who was behind everything that was happening to them. Would they find them? Would they make them pay for their sins? Would they make it out of this nightmare untouched and unblemished? Would I? My heart took such an emotional beat down.
And I honestly don’t think I saw one error or anything. If there was, it was so minor. It’s been sometime since I read a book so completely edited to perfection. For that I say thank you and great job.
This new to me author, just stole my next few days as I inhale the remainder of this series. 5 Stars!!
May 14, 2022
DNF at 30%. I can’t get past how unrealistic it is to me. Yeah, it’s a book but there’s just some things I couldn’t get past. Maceo, an ex navy seal turned MC, runs into a woman on a greenway. 10 minutes after meeting they have public sex. Afterward, Maceo feels super possessive over the FMC. Saying things minutes after, like if he got her pregnant he would help raise the baby and how she was his now. Like what???? I just didn’t get him and his inner monologue. Totally drove me nuts.
I always feel bad when I DNF a book, but I really did try and just couldn’t get past some of the first moments. This is my second book out off the hundredsI have read, that I DNF. That has to say something unfortunately.
I always feel bad when I DNF a book, but I really did try and just couldn’t get past some of the first moments. This is my second book out off the hundredsI have read, that I DNF. That has to say something unfortunately.
December 1, 2021
DNF!
Nope! This was too stupid for me. If you're wanting an unbelievable and unrealistic story trying to characterize itself as a MC romance, go for it. Just another wannabe that needn't have bothered.
Nope! This was too stupid for me. If you're wanting an unbelievable and unrealistic story trying to characterize itself as a MC romance, go for it. Just another wannabe that needn't have bothered.
October 27, 2021
Lips on My Heart is such an amazing and refreshing read!
I'm not one who usually gravitates towards instalove, but when I read the blurb and the first (HOT) chapter, I was hooked.
Maceo is the president of a MC and in need of building a new headquarters for his club, which is where Jo comes in. As an architect, they communicate via email at first until they meet in person after their first steamy encounter while on a run (which I mean...hot damn! It was beautifully written and so freakin' believable!)
Being someone who has had her own instalove story in real life, the love Maceo and Jo share together is palpable through MJ's words. You feel the tension, the fear, the intense love and affection towards each other. You get lost in this world that MJ beautifully resurrected with a group of hot bikers who turn into the most fiercest guard dogs.
Speaking of dogs, HADES! I love how he became such a big part of the story! I wish I could meet him in real life!
Brava to MJ! I loved this book so much and am going to devour the rest of the series this weekend!
I'm not one who usually gravitates towards instalove, but when I read the blurb and the first (HOT) chapter, I was hooked.
Maceo is the president of a MC and in need of building a new headquarters for his club, which is where Jo comes in. As an architect, they communicate via email at first until they meet in person after their first steamy encounter while on a run (which I mean...hot damn! It was beautifully written and so freakin' believable!)
Being someone who has had her own instalove story in real life, the love Maceo and Jo share together is palpable through MJ's words. You feel the tension, the fear, the intense love and affection towards each other. You get lost in this world that MJ beautifully resurrected with a group of hot bikers who turn into the most fiercest guard dogs.
Speaking of dogs, HADES! I love how he became such a big part of the story! I wish I could meet him in real life!
Brava to MJ! I loved this book so much and am going to devour the rest of the series this weekend!
September 9, 2021
Josephine & Maeco InstaLove
I loved that this book was written from both the male and female perspectives.
I couldn’t get enough of Alpha-hole Maeco and how strong a female character Josephine was.
Maeco, an ex-SEAL, is covered in tattoos and big enough to rock a girl on a boulder. Um, yes please!
Josephine is an architect running her own business. Boss Lady is feisty and not afraid to cuss anyone out who gets in her way.
I’ve never read an MC novel before, but I did enjoy this one.
The steamy scenes were spicy! Just how I like them.
I loathed Jacob, which meant the author did her job making sure there was definitely some tension from an ex.
I know babies are in their future and I’m wondering if they will have twins…
I am also hopeful to know more about Gauge and Opal.
My favorite character was Hades.
Looking forward to reading the next in the series.
I loved that this book was written from both the male and female perspectives.
I couldn’t get enough of Alpha-hole Maeco and how strong a female character Josephine was.
Maeco, an ex-SEAL, is covered in tattoos and big enough to rock a girl on a boulder. Um, yes please!
Josephine is an architect running her own business. Boss Lady is feisty and not afraid to cuss anyone out who gets in her way.
I’ve never read an MC novel before, but I did enjoy this one.
The steamy scenes were spicy! Just how I like them.
I loathed Jacob, which meant the author did her job making sure there was definitely some tension from an ex.
I know babies are in their future and I’m wondering if they will have twins…
I am also hopeful to know more about Gauge and Opal.
My favorite character was Hades.
Looking forward to reading the next in the series.
July 13, 2020
Rating: 2.5 - 3 (wish we had half star ratings). Closer to 2.5 than 3 though because of how the unpleasant vibes the H gave me and the h at first outraged before seemingly coming to accept it all in the name of looooooove
Not the worst but not the best!
Lips On My Heart was an MC insta love/lust/infatuation romance.
I'm not generally a fan of MC romances but I liked that the members were essentially good guys who just so happened to ride motorcycles and have a clubhouse. It didn't really feel like an MC romance (barely any long winded descriptions of bikes/riding) which I loved.
The heroine Jo/Josephine/Pixie/Keebler was a nice change of pace. She was headstrong and stubborn, independent and not the typical needy heroine I've grown used to reading with these types of romances. Even at rare certain points where she allowed Maceo to boss her around with his controlling ways, she did it begrudgingly and chewed him out for it right afterwards which is sadly an improvement compared to most other heroines.
Which leads me to my main issue with this book: Maceo's manipulation! The things he said to her immediately after having slept with her fifteen minutes after their first meeting would have been considered down right creepy/rapey/stalker-ish if he hadn't been the main lead.
All the things he said, stuff about there being a connection the h didn't feel yet and how they were already in a relation whether she wanted it or not, made him a little unlikable to me from page one. He does immediate background checks on her, hacks/traces her phone and who she calls, etc. He had all more mannerisms/characteristics of a stalker rapist than the actual villain did!
I don't know, this one was weird for me. I skimmed some of it, especially the drawn out graphic love scenes that I normally don't mind, but I also couldn't stop reading. It was a short, simple read, the first in a series apparently.
Not terrible but not incredibly enjoyable either. I will say, however that I'm enticed and interested just enough to peak at the next book in the series just to see if it's the same characters to give certain points in the story some closure or with new h/H.
I guess we'll see!
Not the worst but not the best!
Lips On My Heart was an MC insta love/lust/infatuation romance.
I'm not generally a fan of MC romances but I liked that the members were essentially good guys who just so happened to ride motorcycles and have a clubhouse. It didn't really feel like an MC romance (barely any long winded descriptions of bikes/riding) which I loved.
The heroine Jo/Josephine/Pixie/Keebler was a nice change of pace. She was headstrong and stubborn, independent and not the typical needy heroine I've grown used to reading with these types of romances. Even at rare certain points where she allowed Maceo to boss her around with his controlling ways, she did it begrudgingly and chewed him out for it right afterwards which is sadly an improvement compared to most other heroines.
Which leads me to my main issue with this book: Maceo's manipulation! The things he said to her immediately after having slept with her fifteen minutes after their first meeting would have been considered down right creepy/rapey/stalker-ish if he hadn't been the main lead.
All the things he said, stuff about there being a connection the h didn't feel yet and how they were already in a relation whether she wanted it or not, made him a little unlikable to me from page one. He does immediate background checks on her, hacks/traces her phone and who she calls, etc. He had all more mannerisms/characteristics of a stalker rapist than the actual villain did!
I don't know, this one was weird for me. I skimmed some of it, especially the drawn out graphic love scenes that I normally don't mind, but I also couldn't stop reading. It was a short, simple read, the first in a series apparently.
Not terrible but not incredibly enjoyable either. I will say, however that I'm enticed and interested just enough to peak at the next book in the series just to see if it's the same characters to give certain points in the story some closure or with new h/H.
I guess we'll see!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 18, 2021
Mixed Feelings
I was so excited to read this and I became obsessed within the first few chapters. But as the book went on, I started to lose interest.
MJ first paints Josephine as this strong willed no bullshit heroine who ends up becoming a little weak as the story goes on. The relationship feels rushed. When Josephine finds out that Maceo is away on a mission and ignoring her calls and has invaded her privacy, I expected her to give him real hell. Especially since she goes out of her way to block his number and buy a burner phone. But when he comes back and sees her ex and goes all alpha cave man, she just caves to him. She just allows him to sweet talk himself back in her good graces. I respect what Maceo and his MC does, but I feel like that doesn’t justify the excuse to invade her privacy the way he did.
The book introduces 3 other men - Lorenzo, Esteban, and Jacob. Lorenzo is a mobster obsessed with her and is always sending her flowers as a way of asking her to date. Esteban is the man responsible for killing Maceo’s parents and has taken some kind of personal interest in Josephine. And Jacob is her ex that caused her to move away and start over. He reaches out to her for help with a design contract and she asks him for a favour instead. When Maceo is finding out all the information about her through Chase, you find out that Jacob has sent her some dick pics and emails here and there. But you don’t get the vibe at all that Jacob is obsessed with her and is going to stalk her. But once Maceo comes back from his mission and tells Jacob off, Jacob starts stalking her which gets seriously down graded. You get the incident at her house when someone broke in and again when someone does some damage to a build site for the new MC clubhouse, but you don’t get much until a major confrontation. And it was kind of disappointing. Jacob is supposed to be the main villain in this story but it gets seriously downplayed and he’s not in the story enough to be taken seriously as a villain.
There’s slight other woman drama with a club bunny named Candy but that gets brushed over real quick.
I’m not sure if I’ll be reading the second book. 😕
I was so excited to read this and I became obsessed within the first few chapters. But as the book went on, I started to lose interest.
MJ first paints Josephine as this strong willed no bullshit heroine who ends up becoming a little weak as the story goes on. The relationship feels rushed. When Josephine finds out that Maceo is away on a mission and ignoring her calls and has invaded her privacy, I expected her to give him real hell. Especially since she goes out of her way to block his number and buy a burner phone. But when he comes back and sees her ex and goes all alpha cave man, she just caves to him. She just allows him to sweet talk himself back in her good graces. I respect what Maceo and his MC does, but I feel like that doesn’t justify the excuse to invade her privacy the way he did.
The book introduces 3 other men - Lorenzo, Esteban, and Jacob. Lorenzo is a mobster obsessed with her and is always sending her flowers as a way of asking her to date. Esteban is the man responsible for killing Maceo’s parents and has taken some kind of personal interest in Josephine. And Jacob is her ex that caused her to move away and start over. He reaches out to her for help with a design contract and she asks him for a favour instead. When Maceo is finding out all the information about her through Chase, you find out that Jacob has sent her some dick pics and emails here and there. But you don’t get the vibe at all that Jacob is obsessed with her and is going to stalk her. But once Maceo comes back from his mission and tells Jacob off, Jacob starts stalking her which gets seriously down graded. You get the incident at her house when someone broke in and again when someone does some damage to a build site for the new MC clubhouse, but you don’t get much until a major confrontation. And it was kind of disappointing. Jacob is supposed to be the main villain in this story but it gets seriously downplayed and he’s not in the story enough to be taken seriously as a villain.
There’s slight other woman drama with a club bunny named Candy but that gets brushed over real quick.
I’m not sure if I’ll be reading the second book. 😕
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 21, 2021
It had low key crossfire vibes. Really enjoyable read. Loved both the MCs and their connection. I like the writing style and am really hoping for a book on his second in command. Loved that there was no OW drama yay.
July 14, 2020
(Some spoilers)If you love MC romances with a strong female lead, then you will love this page-turner. I love MC romances and this one stood out compared to the ones I typically read. Most MC novels involve overbearing jackwagons trying to lay claim on a woman like she's a piece of property. This was the first MC romance I read where the female didn't give in just because the male told her to--it really is her choice and she doesn't make it easy. Lips on my Heart is a mashup between alpha-male/military/contemporary/suspense/rom-con. The heroine, Josephine (Jo) Holland, is a career-driven woman who isn't afraid of anyone, speaks her mind, and succeeds in a male-dominated industry. She meets the main male lead (Atlas/Maceo) right away, and it's instant lust/chemistry smoking off the pages. He is instantly smitten with her and pretty much tries to claim her as his old lady immediately (gotta love those alpha males), but she has her hang-ups over a past relationship and basically blows him off. Fate intervenes when she goes to meet her next client who happens to be Atlas. Now that he knows who she is, he's more determined to win her over and he goes about it in all the wrong ways. Because of who he is and what he does for a living (president of MC/runs a security company/has lots of enemies/ retired Navy SEAL), he sets up security tracking on her without her permission as a means of protecting her from his enemies who may target her to get to him. This is the cause of major drama in their early relationship. I don't want to give too much away, but the author worked this scenario to believable standards. As the story progresses, Jo becomes very aware to the dangers that surround Atlas and his life, but she brings her own dangers to the relationship. The characters evolve together throughout the story, to the point you see their love and not just the their lust. This becomes very obvious in the last few chapters of the book. There were plenty of angsty-feels with this novel, as well as suspense, comedy, and lots of oh la la. If you love bedroom details, this book has it in spades. I know some readers don't like sexual details, but being a visual person, I absolutely loved it. I'm following the author on her other social media accounts and it looks like book 2 will be out by late summer/early fall. For her first book, I think she did an amazing job. I'm excited this is a series since I'm already invested in the H/h.
April 30, 2021
🔥🔥🔥
This book started out pretty freakin great. This made me want to go out for "runs" with my hubby. lol. It was hot. I did love the story of Josephine and Maceo.
Josephine - the go-getter, prim and proper, curses like a sailor, beautiful woman.
Maceo - the brooding alpha, ex Navy Seal, President of Mercy Ravens MC, hero
Their story together was an insta-love, romantic love story. I loved how the author kept the over the top love consistent throughout the entire book. The heat scenes were fiiiire. Yes, thank you for that. My husband also thanks you ;-)
However, I felt like Maceo was supposed to be this big, tough, biker guy and what I read just seemed to bring some notches down in his alpha-ness. I feel like the author went into a lot of unnecessary detail when it came to certain things and then fast forwarded other things I would have liked to read more of.
At the end when Jo was abducted, it became very intense and I couldn't flip the pages fast enough. The author did a great job hiding Jacobs crazy. lol. I look forward to seeing how everything plays out with Lorenzo and Esteban.
Also, can't wait for that wedding night scene, I feel like it'll be epic.
*Overall 3.5/5
*Heat? 5/5
*MF Romance
*First person POV, both Jo and Maceo
*HEA? Yes and no. You can stop here and be content with how it played out, sure. The series continues with Jo and Maceo. Hopefully with a wedding and also more roadblocks with Esteban and maybe Lorenzo?
This book started out pretty freakin great. This made me want to go out for "runs" with my hubby. lol. It was hot. I did love the story of Josephine and Maceo.
Josephine - the go-getter, prim and proper, curses like a sailor, beautiful woman.
Maceo - the brooding alpha, ex Navy Seal, President of Mercy Ravens MC, hero
Their story together was an insta-love, romantic love story. I loved how the author kept the over the top love consistent throughout the entire book. The heat scenes were fiiiire. Yes, thank you for that. My husband also thanks you ;-)
However, I felt like Maceo was supposed to be this big, tough, biker guy and what I read just seemed to bring some notches down in his alpha-ness. I feel like the author went into a lot of unnecessary detail when it came to certain things and then fast forwarded other things I would have liked to read more of.
At the end when Jo was abducted, it became very intense and I couldn't flip the pages fast enough. The author did a great job hiding Jacobs crazy. lol. I look forward to seeing how everything plays out with Lorenzo and Esteban.
Also, can't wait for that wedding night scene, I feel like it'll be epic.
*Overall 3.5/5
*Heat? 5/5
*MF Romance
*First person POV, both Jo and Maceo
*HEA? Yes and no. You can stop here and be content with how it played out, sure. The series continues with Jo and Maceo. Hopefully with a wedding and also more roadblocks with Esteban and maybe Lorenzo?
February 7, 2022
This book was amazing!
I've been planning on reading this author for a while and I'm so glad that I did.
I'm a sucker for romantic suspense and security firms, I love MC books and I'm crazy for overwhelming, sexy alphas.
And this book had it all in spades.
Josephine and Maceo were the perfect match for each other. They were passionate and intense about everything they did. They were driven and devoted to their jobs, they loved with everything they had, they were unapologetic about their feelings, they were protective and nurturing.
Josephine was strong as heck. She was sassy, witty and she took as good as she gave. I loved her independence and resilience, I'm experiencing a huge girl crush on her.
Maceo/Atlas was as dreamy as he was controversial and I loved it. He was protective almost to a fault and he would stop at nothing to keep Josephine safe and happy. He was the perfect mixture of alpha and adorable.
Their chemistry was scorching hot and I loved how intense they were about everything. When they argued, they didn't hold anything back, but they always respected each other and were willing to acknowledge their mistakes and apologize for them.
And another thing that really called to me was that this book was intense, full of action and suspense, heavy (in a wonderful way) on passion, yet it was funny and full of light and cozy moments, either between Josephine and Maceo or between them and his crew.
This book truly had it all.
I've been planning on reading this author for a while and I'm so glad that I did.
I'm a sucker for romantic suspense and security firms, I love MC books and I'm crazy for overwhelming, sexy alphas.
And this book had it all in spades.
Josephine and Maceo were the perfect match for each other. They were passionate and intense about everything they did. They were driven and devoted to their jobs, they loved with everything they had, they were unapologetic about their feelings, they were protective and nurturing.
Josephine was strong as heck. She was sassy, witty and she took as good as she gave. I loved her independence and resilience, I'm experiencing a huge girl crush on her.
Maceo/Atlas was as dreamy as he was controversial and I loved it. He was protective almost to a fault and he would stop at nothing to keep Josephine safe and happy. He was the perfect mixture of alpha and adorable.
Their chemistry was scorching hot and I loved how intense they were about everything. When they argued, they didn't hold anything back, but they always respected each other and were willing to acknowledge their mistakes and apologize for them.
And another thing that really called to me was that this book was intense, full of action and suspense, heavy (in a wonderful way) on passion, yet it was funny and full of light and cozy moments, either between Josephine and Maceo or between them and his crew.
This book truly had it all.
November 10, 2024
Lips on my heart
🏍 MC crew
🏍architect
🏍 former SEALS
🏍instalove
🏍touch/look at her and 💀
🏍fiesty/stubborn FMC
MC books are quickly becoming a top favorite of mine and this one was just so good. I'm not big on instalove, but I really loved this one. I laughed, swooned and cried and can't wait for more.
Maceo meets Josephine one morning on a run when he thinks the "Hellhound" is going to attack. The spice is spicing right at the start and oh man. When Jo shows up later to meet her new client Atlas it's the same man from the run.
They are basically inseparable and they become closer. Josephine doesn't put up with anyone telling her what to do, and she speaks her mind to maceo, and he loves her fighting spirit.
This one of course has drama and suspense and I was here for it. I can't wait to read more in this series because I love the whole crew. They are a family and they've got the back of their first lady!
🏍 MC crew
🏍architect
🏍 former SEALS
🏍instalove
🏍touch/look at her and 💀
🏍fiesty/stubborn FMC
MC books are quickly becoming a top favorite of mine and this one was just so good. I'm not big on instalove, but I really loved this one. I laughed, swooned and cried and can't wait for more.
Maceo meets Josephine one morning on a run when he thinks the "Hellhound" is going to attack. The spice is spicing right at the start and oh man. When Jo shows up later to meet her new client Atlas it's the same man from the run.
They are basically inseparable and they become closer. Josephine doesn't put up with anyone telling her what to do, and she speaks her mind to maceo, and he loves her fighting spirit.
This one of course has drama and suspense and I was here for it. I can't wait to read more in this series because I love the whole crew. They are a family and they've got the back of their first lady!
June 23, 2020
I’m a guy who doesn’t typically read romance of any kind, but I saw the cover (HOT) and I read the synopsis and decided why not. Romance aside, this book had suspense, angsty feels, and comedy. And the steamy scenes...whoa! I may need to read more romances if they’re all written like this. I really liked the mashup of retired navy SEAL and current MC President for the main male character. I can relate to the dude on so many levels, he’s constantly getting himself in trouble with the main female. It makes his character so believable. I got a kick out of the spunky female role. The interaction between the two characters actually felt real, like you could see it happening in real life. The two truly are a power couple. I am looking forward to the next book this author publishes because I’m digging it. Hurry up M.J. Marino — I want more.
September 5, 2020
Hello Maceo !!!!!!
Awesome !!! I'm a lover of MC Biker stories and I have read a plenty and this one did not disappoint and it's only the beginning and I'm hooked . The plot, friendship, suspense, mystery, family, action, humor, angst, strong alpha men and women, and let's not forget the club sweetbutts and their drama 😊 what's a good MC story without club girls drama 😊 all of these make for a great read. This is a very well written awesome beginning for a new MC series also for a debut story I say Author You Rocked this characters so well written that the story pulls you in captures you and then captivate you from beginning to end. So again this is a very well written story Well Done Author, Well Done, I can't wait to get to " Lips On My Soul " !!!!!
Awesome !!! I'm a lover of MC Biker stories and I have read a plenty and this one did not disappoint and it's only the beginning and I'm hooked . The plot, friendship, suspense, mystery, family, action, humor, angst, strong alpha men and women, and let's not forget the club sweetbutts and their drama 😊 what's a good MC story without club girls drama 😊 all of these make for a great read. This is a very well written awesome beginning for a new MC series also for a debut story I say Author You Rocked this characters so well written that the story pulls you in captures you and then captivate you from beginning to end. So again this is a very well written story Well Done Author, Well Done, I can't wait to get to " Lips On My Soul " !!!!!
May 25, 2021
This author is brand new to me and a quote from this book was posted in a reading group I’m in. I decided to give it a chance because the excerpt that was posted was hilarious. I’m so glad I took a chance. This book was amazing. I love Jo. So many times authors write female characters that they think are strong, feisty, and independent - when in reality the characters read as completely irritating and often too stupid to live. Jo was the perfect blend of fun traits, some flaws, but never annoying. Atlas is just great and a perfect foil to Jo. The club brothers are wonderful characters and I’m hoping that this author writes books for all of the brothers so that this is a very, very long series. On to the next book.
August 26, 2020
Lips on My Heart kept me engrossed from start to finish! How Maceo and Josephine met the first time was sooooo memorable and hot, plus their second encounter was fun for the reader too. The H and h had such amazing chemistry and banter and after Maceo made a pretty big error in how he treated Jo and she put him in check, their romance singed page after page. 🔥
I loved the action and humor in this book, Maceo’s MC brothers, Josephine’s dog Hades, and how Maceo and Josephine were fierce and true to themselves!!! I can’t wait to see what’s in store next for Maceo & Josephine, Gauge & Opal and the rest of the members of Mercy Ravens MC!!!! 💯
I loved the action and humor in this book, Maceo’s MC brothers, Josephine’s dog Hades, and how Maceo and Josephine were fierce and true to themselves!!! I can’t wait to see what’s in store next for Maceo & Josephine, Gauge & Opal and the rest of the members of Mercy Ravens MC!!!! 💯
May 23, 2021
Fantastic start to new MC Series
"Lips on my heart" is like riding a roller-coaster, never a dull moment, opening scene had my heart beating, first from fear, then from laughing and last because of the sexy time that followed. Atlas and Jo, make an interesting couple, Atlas over the top alpha with a soft side and a temper combined with Jo pixie size with a mouth like a sailor and courage like a lion makes interesting reading. Loved the MC family, looking forward to reading Gauge story
"Lips on my heart" is like riding a roller-coaster, never a dull moment, opening scene had my heart beating, first from fear, then from laughing and last because of the sexy time that followed. Atlas and Jo, make an interesting couple, Atlas over the top alpha with a soft side and a temper combined with Jo pixie size with a mouth like a sailor and courage like a lion makes interesting reading. Loved the MC family, looking forward to reading Gauge story
October 16, 2021
Head strong gal
I saw this book recommended on tiktok and decided to give it a go. I truly enjoyed the storyline. Jo was feisty and head strong, but still had her vulnerable moments. Atlas wasn't your average biker, ex seal and security company owner. He and his men looked after their own and brought the bad guys to order. There were a few hilarious moments in this book, when jo and or atlas would go crazy on each other, making for an in depth relationship when we also got to read of the tears and trauma they both faced. Great read. Cant wait to start book 2.
I saw this book recommended on tiktok and decided to give it a go. I truly enjoyed the storyline. Jo was feisty and head strong, but still had her vulnerable moments. Atlas wasn't your average biker, ex seal and security company owner. He and his men looked after their own and brought the bad guys to order. There were a few hilarious moments in this book, when jo and or atlas would go crazy on each other, making for an in depth relationship when we also got to read of the tears and trauma they both faced. Great read. Cant wait to start book 2.
January 10, 2022
Love this book!!
Wow this book is super hot 🔥 Maceo is so Alpha male sexy! Josephine is beautiful and smart. They fall in love fast which I loved! The beginning starts off amazing when they first meet 🔥 I love the connection Josephine has with the entire MC.
Really great read!
I haven’t read an MC romance in a while but now I’m hooked again! Great writing! I can’t wait to binge read all of your books now.
Wow this book is super hot 🔥 Maceo is so Alpha male sexy! Josephine is beautiful and smart. They fall in love fast which I loved! The beginning starts off amazing when they first meet 🔥 I love the connection Josephine has with the entire MC.
Really great read!
I haven’t read an MC romance in a while but now I’m hooked again! Great writing! I can’t wait to binge read all of your books now.
October 31, 2025
All the characters in this were so overdramatic, I felt like I was reading a badly written wattpad book PLS. I actually thought it would be written well because of all the good reviews. But biker romances never are so I don't know why I thought it would be.
Anyways because I unfortunately have the first 4 books, I'll have to read them. Or I'll attempt to even though I honestly did not like this. I expected the insta love but then it was just so dramatic, the MCS were literally laughing one minute and then sobbing 😭 in a really dramatic way. 💀😂
Anyways because I unfortunately have the first 4 books, I'll have to read them. Or I'll attempt to even though I honestly did not like this. I expected the insta love but then it was just so dramatic, the MCS were literally laughing one minute and then sobbing 😭 in a really dramatic way. 💀😂
July 23, 2020
Puts you in your feels!!!!!
I am not the best at writing these reviews but let me tell you, it is worth your time. I could not put it down, I will admit that I may have stayed up late to finish it. You will not be disappointed, well maybe a little because you finish it and want more.
I am not the best at writing these reviews but let me tell you, it is worth your time. I could not put it down, I will admit that I may have stayed up late to finish it. You will not be disappointed, well maybe a little because you finish it and want more.
October 27, 2021
So different to how all of the other MC books are. You'd usually expect a hint of cheating, maybe some explicit s*x that the h walks in on, etc. Not in this one!
I love how the book didn't follow the usual and I didn't dislike Maceo "Atlas" one bit.
There's romance right from the start and their relationship pretty much begins in the first few chapters. I was wondering how the author would pull off such a fast forward romance without it feeling rushed but they did. Done well, too.
Josephine and Maceo (can't forget Hades) are introduced in the first chapter, an additional reason for them to stick together comes about in the third, and the whirlwind begins.
However, as with all romances, it's not a completely smooth road. With bad guys around every corner, sleezy ex's and a stubborn heroine; things are bound to get interesting.
I love how the book didn't follow the usual and I didn't dislike Maceo "Atlas" one bit.
There's romance right from the start and their relationship pretty much begins in the first few chapters. I was wondering how the author would pull off such a fast forward romance without it feeling rushed but they did. Done well, too.
Josephine and Maceo (can't forget Hades) are introduced in the first chapter, an additional reason for them to stick together comes about in the third, and the whirlwind begins.
However, as with all romances, it's not a completely smooth road. With bad guys around every corner, sleezy ex's and a stubborn heroine; things are bound to get interesting.
June 19, 2022
I took a chance on this unknown to me author and am so pleased I did. What a brilliant story with humour, laughter, all the angst you expect from a great romance as well as some action, intrigue, danger, and the obligatory jealousy from the club bunnies that often follow the MC members. Looking forward to reading more in this series
July 5, 2021
What a great book! I loved it.
A part from the wonderful characters and storyline there was one thing I personally liked a lot, h’s job.
As an engineer in the construction industry since many years, I love reading about other women with the same job.
A part from the wonderful characters and storyline there was one thing I personally liked a lot, h’s job.
As an engineer in the construction industry since many years, I love reading about other women with the same job.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 131 reviews