Wednesday, January 7, 2026

Secret Shiters Next Door Book Report


 

                             Secret Shifters Compete Series

by Roxie Ray

Genre: Paranormal Romance

Published: September 11, 2024


The Secret Shifters Compete Series by Roxie Ray is a sizzling paranormal romance series filled with fated mates, hidden identities, danger, and fiercely protective alpha shifters. From the very beginning, the author pulls you into a world where shifters must compete, survive, and ultimately trust fate—and each other.


This series follows four main couples: Miles & Celina, Steff & April, Blayne & Ava, and Tate & Harley. Each pairing brings its own emotional journey, challenges, and chemistry, making the series feel fresh from book to book while still staying connected through its overarching storyline and shifter competition theme.


Roxie Ray’s writing style is engaging and well paced. The story flows smoothly, with just the right balance of romance, suspense, and action. Each twist and turn kept my attention, and I found myself wanting to keep reading to see how each couple’s story would unfold. The danger lurking in the background adds tension, while the strong mate bonds give the series a solid emotional core.


While all the couples were enjoyable, Blayne and Ava’s relationship stood out the most to me. Their story carried the deepest emotional weight and had a strong sense of history behind it. Rather than falling into an instant, easy romance, Blayne and Ava had to confront past mistakes, personal struggles, and emotional walls. Watching them grow individually before fully coming together made their relationship feel realistic and earned. Their journey showed that love sometimes requires healing, patience, and personal growth before it can truly thrive.


One of the strongest elements of this series is the possessive yet protective nature of the alpha shifters. These characters will do anything to keep their mates safe, which adds intensity and passion to every relationship. The fated mates trope is done well here—romantic without feeling rushed, and emotional without losing the excitement of the paranormal elements.


Overall, the Secret Shifters Compete Series is an entertaining and well-written paranormal romance that fans of shifters, fated mates, and strong alpha heroes will thoroughly enjoy. If you’re looking for romance mixed with danger, competition, and emotional depth, this series is definitely worth adding to your reading list.



Sunday, January 4, 2026

Sunday Funday with Cherrie

                                                          


                                                           Weekend Vibes ✨

This weekend I called Cherrie to see if she wanted to take a little trip with me to Norman, Oklahoma. It was time to stock our pantry for January, and I always enjoy having company on a grocery run. Of course, no trip like this is just about groceries—we had a little shopping and lunch planned too.


Our first stop was Ross Dress for Less. I was on the hunt for a new shower curtain for the bathroom, and while I was there, I went ahead and picked up a few new towels and washcloths. I also found a really cute shower caddy that hangs right on the showerhead. I decided I’ll add a 4-piece bathroom accessory set later to tie everything together.


I chose a dark blue shower curtain, which is way outside my normal comfort zone. I usually lean toward seashells or dolphins, so I’m not sure why my taste seems to be shifting—but I kind of like it. While there, I also picked up some white ankle socks for Mr. C. He’s been wanting shorter socks, so that was an easy win.


Next, we stopped at Burlington. Surprisingly, I didn’t buy a single thing. That doesn’t usually happen there, but sometimes it’s nice to walk out empty-handed.

                                                  


A trip to Norman wouldn’t be complete without stopping at Barnes & Noble. I browsed through the paranormal book section and flipped through Flow magazine for junk journaling inspiration. Nothing really jumped out at me, so I left without a purchase—and that’s okay too.

                                                 



For lunch, we headed to Bad Daddy’s Burger Bar for cheeseburgers and fries. It was just as good as the first time we ate there. I really enjoy the relaxed atmosphere—it’s a great place to slow down and visit.

                                                       



After lunch, we finally made our way across the street to Crest Foods. I usually spend close to two hours grocery shopping since I buy for the entire month. I use the AnyList app and print my list by sections, which helps keep me organized and on track. I’ve really enjoyed using this system.


Once we finally checked out, we headed toward home. I was extremely thirsty and decided I needed a stop at Sonic Drive‑In. Lately my favorite drink has been a Diet Coke with cherry and vanilla—it was so refreshing.


Our last stop was at McDonald’s on the tollway to pick up dinner for Mr. C. He always enjoys a Quarter Pounder.


Once we were home, we put all the groceries away and settled in for dinner. I was definitely tired, but it felt so good to have this big chore done for the month. There’s just something comforting about a full pantry and a well-stocked chest freezer.


Weekend accomplished 💙