Distracting the Billionaire by Jennifer Griffith {Review}

Distracting the Billionaire by Jennifer Griffith
Kindle edition, 177 pages
Published: January 30, 2020
Source: I received a complimentary copy. All opinions expressed are my own and were voluntarily given.

   

An engagement arranged as part of a business merger goes sideways when the billionaire's heir lays eyes on the wrong girl first.

Noah Rush has awaited his big break in his father’s high-powered corporation for years. If he can accomplish one last task Dad sets for him, Noah will finally win a seat at the corporate table with his older brothers, and thereby heal the rifts he unintentionally caused in the family.

All he has to do is win a girl’s heart and never let her know it’s part of a business deal.

Noah may be a philandering billionaire’s heir, but he’s nobody’s idea of a ladykiller.

Throw in the fact that the girl is a competitor’s daughter with a recently-crushed heart, and this mission is beyond impossible.

However, when Noah confuses his target with her rather unpolished cousin, and promptly falls head over heels … switching his focus back to the mission threatens to tear him apart.

Can Noah afford to choose love over both his dad’s approval and the future he’s always worked for? 

My Review: 5 Stars

I love a case of mistaken identity and this one made for a perfectly hilarious meet-cute because of that. Noah is eager to bring his family together again and to please his father, even at the expense of true love.

I enjoyed touring Hawaii along with Noah, Echo, and Keely, as they embarked on adventure after adventure as Noah "courted" Echo and her company in an effort to forge a business merger. Noah and Keely were fantastically sweet and entertaining characters, while ice queen Echo was a little too perfect for my taste--until she showed her human side.

These characters melted my heart faster than a Snickers left out in the Hawaiian sun. I'll never think of a massage in the same way--who knew it could be so heart poundingly swoony?

This Hawaiian based series is a billion star winner in my book.

Content: mild+ romance/swoon

Don't Love an Army Ranger by Cami Checketts {Review}

Don't Love an Army Ranger (Strong Family Romances) by Cami Checketts

Kindle Edition, 168 pages

Published January 21st 2020 by Birch River Publishing 

Source: Kindle Unlimited

 

    

 

An honorably discharged vet searching for peace. A savvy businesswoman hiding from her psychotic ex. Will he save her, or will she be the one doing the rescuing?
Don't miss Nick's story or any of the bestselling, fast-paced, and fun Strong Family romances.

1. Don't Date Your Brother's Best Friend - Ella Strong
2. Her Loyal Protector
3. Don't Fall for a Fugitive - Heath Strong
4. Don't Ditch a Detective - Cassie Strong
5. Don't Miss the Moment - Gavin Strong
6. Don't Love an Army Ranger - Nick Strong
7. Don't Chase a Player - Stetson Strong

 

My Review: 4.5 Stars

 

Reading a Cami Checketts romantic suspense is like soaking in a steaming hot bubble bath with a cup of melted chocolate. Even though the suspense has me on the edge of my seat, there's something so enveloping about the stories and characters.

 

Nick is looking for peace after being in the Army, but apparently that's too much to ask when he runs into Mary, a girl from his past, and her crazy ex. I loved these characters and their romantic tension while under pressure, and would have loved to delve even deeper into their feelings and relationship, especially from the past, because I just couldn't get enough. 

 

My favorite part was Nick talking through the door with Mary's sister eavesdropping. Such a sweet, yet fully embarrassing, moment. I really enjoyed these sweet tender moments that were mixed in with the fast paced action. 

 

I haven't read all of these and did just fine--they can stand alone--but I'm definitely going to go back and catch up. Great series about a great family!

 

Content: mild+ romance (swoony kissing); mild+ violence 

Is This Shoulder Taken? by D.M. Drake {Review}

Is This Shoulder Taken? (The Carrington Series Book 1) by D.M. Drake

Kindle Edition, 139 pages

Published May 25th 2019 by Amazon Digital Services 

Source: Kindle Unlimited

    

He walked away and out of the restaurant. He had broken our engagement and my heart into a million pieces. I felt hollow, like that Tori Kelly song. How, would I ever find my heart again?

A Novella

The Carrington Series (Book 1) - Kendall Prescott was an art gallery owner looking forward to her wedding to the handsome Mark West, her childhood crush. He breaks their engagement and in the process, her heart. He walked away from her without an explanation.

She wasn't expecting to meet the unbelievably handsome, Greyson Carrington. He is a charming, extremely wealthy billionaire, and self-proclaimed eternal bachelor. Will their blossoming friendship turn into a love that heals Kendall's heart? Or will she experience heartbreak all over again, when Greyson's high school sweetheart unexpectedly enters his life after a tragedy with a twist? Kendall is in for a bumpy emotional rollercoaster ride. Stay tuned to see where it ends!  

My Review: 3 Stars

This debut novella shows a lot of author potential, but I struggled to find an emotional connection to the characters and their situations, as they remained two dimensional for me. 

The story alternates points of view between Kendall and Greyson and I was yearning to dwell in each of their hearts and minds for time, but there was too much telling and not nearly enough showing for me, reading like a travelogue with a lot of the same details repeated. Kendall's had a rough life and things are finally looking up for her, but she's very insecure in her relationships and decisions. I wanted to watch the character arc in action, because that is one of my favorite things about stories like this.

I would have loved more information on the important things and events, especially character thoughts and feelings, while combining or eliminating the rest. I felt like there was too much detail on things that didn't matter and not enough on what did. 

I loved the premise and idea of this book--it would make a beautiful story fleshed out more. Although there were a lot of grammatical/spelling errors, I still found this book delightful and I was interested enough in the characters and plot to keep reading.

Content: mild romance 

Mostly Risky by Heather B. Moore {Review}

Mostly Risky (The Women of Ambrose Estate) by Heather B. Moore

220 pages

Published November 29th 2019 by Mirror Press 

Source: I received a complimentary copy. All opinions expressed are my own and were voluntarily given.

    

A haunting curse. A voice from the past. A truth that will break her heart.

The Ambrose curse has stopped Amelia from following her heart. She’s accepted her fate as part of the generations of Ambrose women who’ve lost their husbands too young. So Amelia is determined to never marry, to never allow herself to fall in love.

Grigg Edison has been patient long enough. Two years, in fact. When Amelia confesses that she’s ready to test the power of the curse, all he wants is a chance. He’ll do anything, including risking his heart in order to uncover the origin of the ancient legend.

But for Amelia, the risk may be too great, and the roots of family lore too deep.

My Review: 5 Stars

I love learning more about the curse that affects this family of all women. In Amelia's story, more of the background was revealed and I enjoy watching the layers peel off as this saga unfolds.

Amelia has a list of the last five guys that she's dated and in a determination to shed this burden from her life, she contacts each man to see if there's anything there. But imagine her surprise when a man willingly begs her to add himself to her list. Controlling the heart seems as unbeatable as conquering this curse.

I love the solid characters and the unexpected twists that showed up in this seemingly sweet romance. The substantial sparks ignite danger and swoon, and kept me captivated. I'm definitely looking forward to the next sister's story and can't wait to view this jinx in its whole entirety. 

Content: moments of mild peril; mild romance; very mild language

The Solicitor's Son by Rachael Anderson {Release Day Giveaway}

Happy Release Day!!

The Solicitor’s Son by Rachael Anderson

At the end of her third season, Miss Sophia Gifford is firmly on the shelf, and she’s determined to accept her current suitor—a man she likes but cannot love.

When her sister decides to throw an impromptu summer house party, Sophia reluctantly agrees to help. What she doesn’t realize is that her sister has plans of her own—plans that would bring a certain childhood friend back into Sophia’s life.

It’s been nearly a decade since Sophia has seen Hugh Quinton. He’s grown into a handsome, charming, and successful—yet completely unacceptable—tradesman. Her mother looks down on him, her father detests him, and society would snub him in an instant. Sophia shouldn’t even consider him. But her heart doesn’t listen to reason, and before long, she finds herself wondering how much she is willing to sacrifice for love.











Release Day Giveaway

$50 Amazon Gift Card or PayPal Cash

Ends 2/2/20

Open only to those who can legally enter, receive and use an Amazon.com Gift Code or Paypal Cash. Winning Entry will be verified prior to prize being awarded. No purchase necessary. You must be 18 or older to enter or have your parent enter for you. The winner will be chosen by rafflecopter and announced here as well as emailed and will have 48 hours to respond or a new winner will be chosen. This giveaway is in no way associated with Facebook, Twitter, Rafflecopter or any other entity unless otherwise specified. The number of eligible entries received determines the odds of winning. This giveaway was organized by Kathy from Clean Wholesome Romance and is sponsored by the author. VOID WHERE PROHIBITED BY LAW.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

A Steadier Version of Me by Cindy Ray Hale {Review}

A Steadier Version of Me (Book Six of the Destiny Clark Saga) by Cindy Ray Hale

Kindle Edition, 145 pages

Published October 2nd 2019 

Source: I received a complimentary copy. All opinions expressed are my own and were voluntarily given.

    

He wants her back, but she’s already taken.  My ex boyfriend, Isaac, and I had the wrong conversation at the wrong time, and now the wrong people at school think I’m having his baby.
Which I'm not.
They’re circulating the false rumors, and the last thing I want is for my parents to hear about it.
Or worse yet.
My boyfriend, Preston.
He’s already worried I might still have feelings for Isaac.
Isaac wants to be friends again.
I told him I didn’t want to date him again.
Or even hang out with him.
But we still have Les Miserables rehearsals, and that means we have to spend a lot of time together.
And there’s no harm in being nice, right?
I mean, it’s not like I still have feelings for him.
Honest.

My Review: 3 Stars

 

If I had one hyphenated word to describe this book, it would be yo-yo. This is my least favorite book in the series because I guess I'm old and Destiny's immaturity and indecisiveness gave me whiplash. Before I go on, I must say that this series has to be read in order.

Destiny is with Preston now, a member of her faith, and wants nothing to do with Isaac, yet when Isaac tells her the truth, she is suddenly vacillating between the two and is almost heartless in her conduct. I had a hard time with how fickle she is and how her actions make her seem desperate. I get that navigating teenage emotions, especially where the heart is involved, is hard, but this capricious behavior doesn't ring true to what I know of Destiny's mature and steady nature.


These characters are well-written, but the angst and drama runs rampant with this portion of the saga. I know that this author is a fantastic writer because the emotions she evoked within me are really strong and if she wasn't good, I really wouldn't care this much.  I'm excited to continue on and watch the growth that I know (*crossing fingers*)will happen occur.

Content: mild romance (kissing, cheating, and topics of teen pregnancy and sneaking out); moderate religion

The Date Next Door (Do-Over Date #3) by Susan Hatler {Review}

The Date Next Door (Do-Over Date #3) by Susan Hatler

Kindle Edition

Published January 16th 2020 by Hatco Publishing 

Source: I received a complimentary copy. All opinions expressed are my own and were voluntarily given.

 

    

 

Carefree Hannah Griffin is able to ignore her long-time crush on her best friend’s older brother, super polished Blake Remington, until he moves in next door.

 

My Review: 5 Stars

 

I love a story of a girl falling in love with her best friend's brother and this one was both humorous and charming. But we're not in high school anymore, Hannah...

 

Hannah is a character much like me and will go along with (or run from) anything to avoid conflict. Her sweet friendship with her long-time best friend, Lucy, brought smiles to my face, especially as she allowed Lucy to make her over to an exact replica of her prom night. The meet cute with Blake after all these years made me cringe in a loving, yet completely mortified on Hannah's behalf, kind of way. Ooh-la-la, Blake! He's not only perfection still, but he's all grown up and in the most hunky and satisfying ways ever.

 

Susan Hatler always does such a great job of incorporating the silly and embarrassing moments that make me laugh out loud with the swoony romantic moments that make my heart drop to my toes, as a fleet of butterflies take up residence in the pit of my stomach. 

 

This series is adorable and this installment will stand out to me like hot pink sneakers paired with a tulle skirted black and silver prom dress.

 

Content: mild romance (swoony kissing)

The Seeking Serum (Potion Masters, Book #3) by Frank L. Cole {Review}

The Seeking Serum (Potion Masters Book #3) by Frank L. Cole

Hardcover, 384 pages

Published January 7th 2020 by Shadow Mountain 

Source: I received a complimentary copy from the publisher. All opinions expressed are my own and were voluntarily given.

 

    

 

Mezzarix has stolen the Vessel, the source of power for all potion masters, and is preparing to launch his final attack on the potion-making community—which includes his own family.

Gordy and his family have gone into hiding, but when his mom uncovers some new information, she takes Gordy into the underground network known as the Swigs, a haven for renegade potion masters and black-market potions, to secure support in the fight against Mezzarix. But when Scourges, rebel potion makers acting on orders from Mezzarix, attack the Swigs, Gordy barely escapes with his life and is forced to leave his family behind.

As the fight intensifies between B.R.E.W. and the Scourges, it falls to Gordy and his friends—Max, Sasha, and Adilene—to locate Mezzarix's hidden headquarters, retrieve the Vessel, save the world, and unite the potion-making community.

The world of Potion Masters is full of fantasy and adventure as Gordy and his friends learn the power of friendship and loyalty, and to trust in their own individual talents.

 

My Review: 4 Stars

 

This is a series that must be read in order to fully appreciate and understand. The Potion Masters is a fun middle grade fantasy that lovers of that genre will enjoy.

 

Gordy and his friends are embroiled in some impossible situations as they battle to stop Gordy's grandfather, Mezzarix, from his sinister attempts to spread evil abroad. As this adventurous story progresses, the characters grow by leaps and bounds. It's enjoyable to have this book told from a couple of points of view, as it rounds out the story line, giving the reader insights into multiple characters thoughts, helping them to understand courses of action and reasoning.

 

This book is one non-stop adventure and thoroughly entertaining! 

Just a Boyfriend (End of the Line #2) by Sariah Wilson {Review}

Just a Boyfriend (End of the Line #2) by Sariah Wilson

Kindle Edition, 283 pages

Published January 7th 2020 by Montlake Romance 

Source: I received a complimentary copy through Netgalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own and were voluntarily given.

   

The rules of love and second chances are due for a major-league shake-up in a warm, witty, and unpredictable romance by the bestselling author of The Friend Zone.
 
Ian “Bash” Sebastian and Ember Carlson were high school sweethearts…until their single parents got married. With one thorny twist of fate, a secret young crush went from on fire to off-limits. What could a new stepbrother do but bail? Now, after almost four years, Bash has returned to Seattle, and he’s back in Ember’s orbit at End of the Line. EOL is the go-to college for second-chance scholarships. But what about love?

Sure, the old hurts are there. So is the attraction—and it’s more magnetic than ever. Still, they’re adults now, levelheaded and just fine with the friend thing. If only to make family dinners less awkward. But when they agree to start dating other people, moving on threatens to bring them closer together than ever.

Is it time to admit their past to their parents? Even trickier, their hope for the future? Because Ember and Bash deserve a love story of their own. With all their defenses down, can they make it a happy ever after?

My Review: 5 Stars

It truly takes talent to weave an unforgettable swoony romance filled with humor and mix it with an impossible family situation, that could be icky, but definitely isn't in this case, and this author has it.

Bash and Ember have some very tricky hurdles to tackle, especially as they each realize that the sizzle and fire is still alive and well after several years apart, which makes it impossible to be friends, let alone stay apart any longer. I loved watching the characters struggle through their growing attraction, while attempted to appease their families. A lot of growth occurs, mainly as both Bash and Ember recognize that they're both adults and can jump after their respective hopes and dreams.

There were so many things that I loved about this book--from skydiving to math lessons to rekindling a fading ember--and getting caught! Sariah Wilson's books are amazing and entertaining, and I can always count on her to supply an amusing story, with lots of butterfly-inducing romance, that manages to stay on the clean side of the line. I can't wait for more of this deliciously swoony series!
Content: mild+ romance (steamy clean, some innuendo)

Roman & Jules: A standalone Fake Marriage Clean Romance by Stephanie Fowers {Review}

Roman & Jules by Stephanie Fowers

Kindle Edition

Published January 13th 2020 by Triad Media and Entertainment 

Source: I received a complimentary copy. All opinions expressed are my own and were voluntarily given.

 

    

 

When Jules meets Roman Verona at an exclusive Vegas party, she doesn’t suspect the bad blood that runs so deep between Roman and her boyfriend, Ty, until the two men have it out in front of her. Even worse, Jules finds out that Ty has never loved her. She storms away, only to have her ex’s sworn enemy offer her a ride into town... as well as a shocking proposal.

A nice girl wouldn’t even consider making her ex jealous with a sham marriage, so why does she chance it with Roman?

Acting the role of devoted husband, Roman soon becomes fascinated with more than Jules’s sweet smile and poetic soul. As her band’s fame grows in Vegas so do his feelings for her and what started out as revenge against his miserable cousin turns into something deeper.

But bad boys don’t settle down. So why does Roman risk everything to win Jules’ heart?

All bets are off in this modern and sleek tale of star-crossed love!  

My Review: 5 Stars

 

Although Vegas is known for its wedding chapels on every corner, I'll never look at it in the same way again. When two cousins, Roman and Ty, battle it out at a family party, Jules finds herself leaving with the cousin she hasn't been dating for a year...and marrying him in the spur of the moment. 

I'm a fan of these ingenious fake marriage stories and this one stole my heart, mainly because it's written in a very fresh, almost rebellious, yet humorous way, with fantastic characters. Roman is the bad boy of the family and of Vegas and his quick wit and unruly charm, along with his giant, adorable puppy, quickly caught my attention. Add to that a secret talent that you wouldn't expect from a Harley riding, leather wearing rebel, and I was nearly swept clean off my feet--right along with Jules.

I love music and every time a song is written into a story, I'm dying to hear it. Jules is a singer/songwriter from the South and wrote a song for Roman on the spot. Swoon! I absolutely adored their complementary relationship and banter and eagerly awaited for their interactions.

Of course, no true love is complete without complications and I loved how those were tackled. So entertaining, with the sweetness arising to the top like cream. This story pure modern, flirty fun!

Content: mild+ romance (swoony kissing, implied cheating)

Rebound (Northbrook Hockey Elite) by Sophia Summers {Review}

Rebound (Northbrook Hockey Elite #3) by Sophia Summers

Kindle Edition

Publication: January 14th 2020 

Source: I received a complimentary copy. All opinions expressed are my own and were voluntarily given. 

   

He's all in. She's all in. Nothing stands in their way--until their families get involved.

Summer Davis, small town librarian, PHD candidate, wants to fall in love.
Rocco De Luca, pro hockey player, didn’t know he was looking for love until he met Summer.

Now they try to navigate getting to know each other around his home game schedule with both their families vying for attention and meddling in ways only big families can. It’s a wonder they can go on a few dates at all once Summer’s brothers learn a pro hockey player is interested in their sister.

But the closer they become, the harder it will be when Summer is offered the chance of a lifetime…far away from their small town in Wyoming.

 

My Review: 5 Stars

 

I was a tiny bit devastated when the Belltown Six Pack came to an end, but I've found solace in the pages of the Northbrook Hockey series and I'm just as in love with this group as I was with the last.

This story takes on Rocco (the Rock) De Luca and his pursuit to finding true love. I loved the setting of Aspen, Wyoming and since I've been there, I could picture it. It made me smile to think of an Italian restaurant family all moving there because one of their own is playing hockey there. A spark of interest, a match on the ice, and a mind-boggling win was all it took for Rocco to lose his heart to Summer, a small town librarian with a penchant for ice skating.

I love getting to know each member of this group. They're all likable and talented in their own ways and each come from different backgrounds with stories to tell. I love watching these rough and tough guys fall in love and this story was no exception. From meddling and opinionated large families to drama with exes to the normal ups and downs of a fledgling relationship, Rocco and Summer won me over and had me cheering them on louder than a super hockey fan club president.

Content: mild romance; very mild violence (hockey related)

The Last Shot (Love in Chaos #3) by Amy Matayo {Review}

The Last Shot (A Love in Chaos Novel) by Amy Matayo

Kindle Edition

Publication: January 14th 2020 by SYG Productions 

Source: I received a complimentary copy. All opinions expressed are my own and were voluntarily given.

 

    

 

It’s the same routine every night, and country music superstar Teddy Hayes wouldn’t have it any other way.

7:00 pm: Arena doors open and fans fill the stands.
7:45 pm: Lights go out and spotlights come on.
7:46 pm: Energy from concert-goers reaches an ear-spitting crescendo.
7:47 pm: Teddy takes the stage and begins to sing.

But tonight, something is off.

It starts when a stage light malfunctions and sends sparks into the air.
It continues when his drummer stops playing and stares slack-jawed in Teddy’s direction.
It dawns on him when a fan doubles-over and a red stain spreads across her shirt.
Something isn’t just off tonight.

Someone in the crowd is shooting a gun.

And it’s up to a female bodyguard he’s never met before to save his life.

 

My Review: 5 Stars

 

Being a superstar isn't always all it's cracked up to be. Amy Matayo has a talent for bringing characters and situations to life in a real and raw way that completely plays on all the emotions. I've been curious about country star Teddy for a few books now and his story rocked my world. It literally starts out with a bang and gave me chills. I was so drawn in and immersed in this chilling tale and although I didn't want to put it down, I had to take a break because I felt just as shattered as the characters. Luckily, I could take a small break because they sure couldn't. 

 

What threw me for a loop was that although the other books in the Love in Chaos series could happen, the events in this book really do happen and way too often nowadays. It was alarming and this author, in a fashion true to her writing style, expressed the thoughts, feelings, and coping processes of both Teddy and Jane in the most realistic way that left me reeling and stunned.

 

Of course, there is a romance smoldering in the ashes of tragedy, and that budding tangent was exactly perfect and gave me lots of hope. This story pierced my heart and soul and left me gathering up my broken pieces long after I finished the last page.

  

Content: mild romance; mild+ language; mild+ violence  

The Keeper's Sacrifice by Krystal M. Anderson {Review}

The Keeper's Sacrifice (Keeper's of the Light, Book 1) by Krystal M. Anderson

ebook, 36 pages

Published November 19th 2019 

Source: I received a complimentary copy. All opinions expressed are my own and were voluntarily given.

 

    

 

There was no better way to put it: Max Tucker was running away. The newly-constructed Puffin Point Lighthouse on the forested shores of Oregon seemed like the perfect place to nurse his broken heart, with its sweeping views of rock and wave and near-isolation from society.
Until he visits Spruce Hill, that is. The little lumber town’s locals seem to be welcoming and kind, embracing Chauntis Bay’s newest keeper of the light and making it easier to move forward with a new life. But when a violent winter storm threatens the integrity of the lighthouse and a foundered ship washes up to shore, Max is bewildered to find a single, unbelievable survivor…

A sweet historical romance novella full of small-town charm and hair-raising adventure! Prequel to the Keeper’s of the Light multi-author series.

 

My Review: 4 Stars 

 

This sweet, very short novella was the perfect setup to what promises to be a good series. Lighthouses are so fascinating to me and it's amazing to think what people used to go through to guide ships safely through storms. 

 

Max is running away from his problems, but lands in a charming and welcoming small town. I loved getting a taste of his character, as well as being introduced to some of the other residents. 

 

This one ends on a cliffhanger, but I know the reader will be treated to more in the next book, which I'm so grateful is already available.

 

Content: very mild violence/peril/danger; hints of romance 

Uncharted Promises by Keely Brooke Keith {Review}

Uncharted Promises by Keely Brooke Keith

Kindle Edition, 411 pages

Published January 1st 2020 by Edenbrooke Press 

Source: I received a complimentary copy. All opinions expressed are my own and were voluntarily given.

 

    

 

Sybil Roberts uses the warmth of delicious meals to lift the spirits of road-weary travelers at The Inn at Falls Creek. Her life at the inn would be perfect if she could just get her brothers and mother to move back home.

And if she could see Isaac Owens again.

He visited the inn once when he interviewed for the farm manager job, and she’s dreamed of his return to Falls Creek ever since.

Isaac Owens knows how to run a farm. His family might not have faith in him, but if he succeeds at Falls Creek, he’ll prove them wrong. He arrives at the inn thinking the job is his, but the inn’s senile owner offered the position to another man too. Isaac must spend the winter competing if he wants to win the job… and Sybil’s heart.

It will take more than warm meals on cold nights for Sybil and Isaac to find love while working at the isolated inn.

Uncharted Promises weaves past and future in a faith-filled story of life in a hidden land. If you enjoy the rural setting and wholesomeness of frontier romance and Amish fiction, you’ll adore Uncharted Promises.

 

My Review: 5 Stars

 

In a mixture of historical and futuristic, this whole series is extremely fascinating to me. Keely Brooke Keith has put together a saga that takes place in a hidden society at the end of this decade and after another world war, but has the feel of an old-fashioned, almost backward, historical society. 

Sybil's family runs an inn and they need a new farm manager. Enter Isaac, a hard-working, simple man who is determined to win Sybil's heart.

The complicated, yet simpleness, of this story is what captured my attention and my heart. I love learning more and more about this place and the people who live here. I suggest reading them in order, since characters make appearances in other books and this world is gradually built throughout the series. Everything is so gentle and smooth, yet there are underlying tensions of complication and mystery. I keep waiting for the shoe to drop and it leaves me slightly unsettled, but it also keeps me eagerly devouring each new release, so keep on writing, Ms. Keith!

Content: mild romance; mild religion

North by Northanger by Rebecca H. Jamison {Review}

North by Northanger by Rebecca H. Jamison

Kindle Edition, 294 pages

Published October 21st 2019 

Source: I received a complimentary copy. All opinions expressed are my own and were voluntarily given.

    

While Eva Morland waits for her first-ever blind date to arrive, she meets Grant Tilney. Not only does flirting come easily with Grant, he also shares her appreciation for black-and-white movies and vintage diners. After he leaves, she notices that he left his phone behind. Setting out to find his office and return the phone, she knocks on a warehouse door. The man who answers mistakes Eva for a government spy, who’s come to investigate his crime ring. He and his partner force Eva into a car and drive her to a secluded trailer in the country.

Eva’s kidnapping sets her down a path of suspense and romance, as she uses all her wits to escape from the bad guys and prove her true identity. Grant comes to her rescue, hiding her in the cab of his semi-truck, but it seems that the criminals are always a step ahead.

Grant is the only one who believes Eva, but as they journey North, Eva starts to question Grant’s identity and motives. She must discover for herself if Grant is one of the good guys or bad guys. Only then will she know whether he’s worth the risk of her own life.

Fans of Hitchcock and Jane Austen will enjoy this modern mash-up of North by Northwest with Northanger Abbey.

My Review: 3.5 Stars

I'm a fan of Hitchcock and Jane Austen and I adore mash-ups, so this story was a no-brainer read for me and guess what? I enjoyed every zany, lighthearted, suspenseful twist and turn, even when I had no idea what was up or down, or who I should trust. The story was almost unbelievable at times, yet I was intrigued and had to keep reading to discover all the secrets hidden within these pages and I must admit, I was taken by surprise at times.   

Eva reminded me of my puppy--super smart and sweet at times, but completely ignorant and unaware at other times. Her heart was in the right place, but sometimes she really made me cringe. Grant is an enigma and while I liked him, I never felt an emotional connection between this couple, as the chemistry seemed stuck in the friend zone or acquaintance field. If you can set that aside, you'll be in for an adventurous treat that was entertaining and twisty.

Content: very mild romance; mild elements of danger/violence/intrigue

Her Snow Valley Fake New Year's Eve Boyfriend by Taylor Hart {Review}

Her Snow Valley Fake New Year's Eve Boyfriend by Taylor Hart

Kindle Edition, 137 pages

Published December 30th 2019 by ArchStone Ink 

Source: Kindle Unlimited

    

A man who's unlovable. A woman who needs a fake boyfriend. Will they find true love over a dance?

  Jax Casey, hot shot Navy SEAL, only cared about his team and his job—saving lives. After growing up being a military brat himself, it hasn’t been hard to keep all relationships on a commitment free basis. With two weeks off, he plans to go to a beach with his buddies, until he discovers his grandpa has had a heart attack and needs his help.

Tia Snow has always wanted to be a famous singer, until bad mojo from her ex boyfriend ruins everything. Now she’s focused on being a writer and helping her aunt and uncle out in the flower shop while they are away on vacation. When said ex boyfriend shows up at the store and insists he wants to get back together, she does the only thing she can think of—tell her ex that the gorgeous hunk who came in to the store to buy flowers is actually her date for the dance and her boyfriend. Good thing the gorgeous hunk agrees, too bad he demands dinner and a kiss every night in exchange.

When complications arise they have to make a choice—trust in fate or walk away from the only real thing they’ve ever had.

My Review: 4 Stars

It's always a great day when I can escape to Snow Valley! In fact, I went to Montana last summer and was on the lookout for a sign pointing me to this beloved small town. I never found it, but I was so excited to immerse myself into this setting for a time.

Jax and Tia have a few things in common, besides only have 3 letters in their names. They both have crazy exes and roots tying them to Snow Valley. They also have lost loved ones and have endured shattered dreams. I love how Jax's military training, and attraction to a certain flower girl, kicks in when her ex harasses her and they somehow end up being in a relationship. It's fake, but still.

The events leading up to a big New Years dance were so great, especially Jax's stipulations. I loved watching this couple get to know each other and they way they were able to open up. This read was a great way to bring in the new year.

Snow Valley...I'll be back for you!


Content: mild romance; mild religion; very mild war descriptions

20 Tropes of 2020 Reading Challenge

My good friend, KJ's Book Nook, posted this reading challenge and I thought it sounded like a lot of fun. It's something different, which might help me actually finish it. I am going to change out a few and they'll be noted with an asterisk (sorry, KJ!). If you'd like to join in and participate, be sure to visit her HERE. Happy Reading!

1. Marriage of Convenience: The Unexpected Wife by Emily Hendrickson

2. Friends to Lovers: 27 Ways to Mend His Broken Heart by Shari L. Tapscott

3. Enemies to Lovers: Brass Carriages and Glass Hearts by Nancy Campbell Allen

4. Single Parent: One Summer Day by Heather B. Moore

5. Second Chance at Love: Just a Boyfriend by Sariah Wilson

6. Secret Love: Heart on the Line by Karen Witemeyer

7. (*)Sports: I'll Be Yours by Jenny B. Jones

8. Orphan: The Matrimonial Advertisement by Mimi Matthews

9. Small Town: The Farmhouse by Elizabeth Bromke

10. Food Fiction: All's Fair in Love and Cupcakes by Betsy St. Amant

11. Forbidden Love: Her Totally Hot Forbidden Fake Fiance by Lucy McConnell

12. Spy/Agent of the Crown: Royal Heir by Traci Hunter Abramson

13. Matchmaking: Promised by Leah Garriott

14. Military/Bodyguard: The Rogue Warrior by Cindy Roland Anderson

15. Return to Hometown: Here to Stay by Melissa Tagg

16. (*)Celebrity: Five Days in Skye by Carla Laureano

17. (*)Reality TV: The Engagement Plot by Krista Phillips

18. (*)Brother's Best Friend: Don't Date Your Brother's Best Friend by Cami Checketts

19. (*)Schoolroom Romance: Don't Forget Me by Judy Corry

20. Secret Identity: The Masked Baron by Anneka R. Walker