Protecting the Princess by Lucinda Whitney {Review}

 Protecting the Princess by Lucinda Whitney

280 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 28, 2021
Source: I received a complimentary copy. All opinions expressed are my own and were voluntarily given. 

 

 

She's a princess doubting the rules of royalty. He's the bodyguard tasked with keeping her in line. Will a relationship destroy both of their goals?


Princess Emma Somerset struggles to find purpose and fulfillment in her life. With her brother and cousins all married and in their new roles, she’s the only one left at the palace. When Queen Nicolette, her aunt, asks Emma to undertake a trip to the north as a good-will ambassador, she agrees, despite her lack of experience.

Ryan Sterling is a new protection officer for the royal house of Durham. He has aspirations for a high-profile assignment, but when Princess Emma’s long-time female bodyguard is injured a week before departure, he’s called to replace her. Now he’s stuck babysitting a spoiled princess instead of proving his worth to advance his career.

After floods strand Emma and Ryan in the remote countryside during the trip, their fledgling friendship slowly turns into something more. But is a new relationship between them doomed to fail when they return to the palace?  

   

My Review: 4 Stars

I've always had a fascination with all things royal and it was fun to get a small taste of the royal life with this story. Although most of it takes place outside the palace walls and the princess is very down-to-earth, the elegance that surrounds Emma, and her awesome new bodyguard, Ryan, was delightful. 

This book reminded me of Roman Holiday with Audrey Hepburn. Emma is always trying to escape her protection, much to Ryan's amusement, until the day there is nowhere to escape to. That's when the fun begins with a tentative friendship and a fake relationship.

Ryan is a very uptight character and it was a joy to watch him soften through events out of his control. I loved Emma's carefree and spirited ways and I liked seeing her mellow just a bit and I especially loved her desire to be normal, to help others, and to work hard, not fearing a little dirt on her hands.

Whitney does a good job of incorporating both the fun and the real aspects of being royal and delivers a charmingly sweet romance.

Content: mild romance

Eye for an Eye by Stephanie Black {Review}

Eye for an Eye by Stephanie Black

80 pages, Paperback|
Publication May 17, 2021
Source: I received a complimentary copy. All opinions expressed are my own and were voluntarily given. 

After a family tragedy nearly destroyed Mallory Ingram, she's fighting to get her life on track. When her sister and brother-in-law open their home to her, Mallory is certain that moving across the country will allow her to focus on a hopeful future. That future looks even more promising when her enrollment at a local university connects her with the charming Darien Thomas.

However, when illegal drugs turn up at her sister's house, the first person accused is Mallory, and suddenly, she doesn't know who to trust. Mounting evidence of Mallory's guilt is straining the tenuous bond she has just begun to develop with her sister after years of living separately. Desperate to prove her innocence and keep the harmful patterns of the past from hijacking her future, Mallory reaches for Darien's help to discover the truth.

But the truth may be more dangerous than any of them imagine.

    

My Review: 4 Stars

I love a good little suspense and this bit-sized story was an afternoon treat. I'm always amazed when an author can develop an intricate and satisfying story in under 100 pages, yet that's just what this author did. The plot was solid, creepy, and complete. 

Mallory has a complicated and traumatic past, which allows for the reader to cast suspicion on this protagonist. While likable, she has flaws and I liked how her relationship with Darien progressed on the heels of a good mystery. I loved the way this story was formulated and enjoyed how it all played out.

Content: vague mentions of drug use, murder, mild violence, and peril; mild romance

Isabelle and Alexander by Rebecca Anderson {Review}

Isabelle and Alexander by Rebecca Anderson

324 pages, Paperback
Publication May 4, 2021
Source: I received a complimentary copy from the publisher. All thoughts and opinions are my own and were voluntarily given.

Manchester, 1850

Isabelle Rackham knows she will not marry for love. Though arranged marriages have fallen out of fashion, hers has been settled for some time. Alexander Osgood is handsome, well-known, and wealthy, but he is distant and aloof, spending much of his time at his textile mill.

Moreover, Northern England is nothing like Isabelle's home in the Lake Country, and her marriage is far from the fairy tale she expected. Conversations with Alexander are awkward, when they happen at all, and Isabelle struggles with loneliness.

Sensing his wife's unhappiness, Alexander brings Isabelle to his country estate. During their time together, the couple begins to build a friendship, opening up to each other about the details of their lives. But when a tragic accident leaves Alexander unable to walk, their fledgling relationship is tested.

Isabelle is determined to see to her husband's recovery, and in caring for him, she discovers within herself an untapped well of strength and courage. In learning to rely on each other, the couple has an opportunity to forge a love connection that they both have longed for but never dreamed could be.

  

My Review: 4 Stars

This isn't your typical romance. Generally, the romances I read showcase the story of how a couple falls in love and gets married, but Isabelle and Alexander were married early in the story without knowing much about each other at all, since it was almost more of a business move than anything. Don't discount that. Although slow, yet steady, this story gives a big nod to the textile movement of the Victorian era and delivered a very slow burn type of love. 

Marriage is hard and I couldn't believe what this couple had to endure while navigating a backwards courtship of sorts. In spite of hoping for a bit more romance from a Proper Romance book, this sweet story is one that left me closing the book with a feel-good feeling. 

While the characters are individually interesting, side character Glory stole the show for me. I did enjoy these characters, but wanted a little more connection with the mysterious enigma of a man. Told in first person, the reader is intimately shown Isabelle's thoughts and feelings and it would have been a richer experience getting inside of Alexander's head as well. 

All in all, this is a story to cherish and ponder. 

Content: very mild romance; mild moments of injury/peril

Love, Lies, and Lullabies (Blueberry Point #2) by DE Malone {Review}

 Love, Lies and Lullabies by D.E. Malone

Kindle Edition
Published April 29, 2021

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

A class reunion. An unrequited love. And the small-town roots that never let go of the heart.

When big-city accountant Wynne Terry dreamed of her future, it looked like the one she’s living. Then an invitation to her high school reunion lands in her mailbox and curiosity beckons her to return for the first time in fifteen years. It has nothing to do with seeing her childhood best friend who unwittingly stole her heart. At least, that’s what Wynne tells herself.

Chase Ford’s regrets come back to haunt him when Wynne walks into his life again. Marrying the first girl who turned his head in high school was mistake number one. Turning his back on Wynne when she needed him most was another. If it’s forgiveness he’s looking for, Wynne may give it to him. But raising his daughter and keeping the ever-elusive Wynne from turning his loveless life upside down take precedence over pleasing his conscience.

When Wynne discovers there’s more to Chase’s story than she bargained for, she wonders if her heart can stand being broken again. But maybe a once-in-a-lifetime love is worth the risk.

Revisit the Blueberry Point series and find out why readers love these sweet, light-hearted romances.

 

   

My Review: 4 Stars

Oh, how I love a good high school reunion romance and I haven't read a lot of them. There's just something so sweet about rediscovering friendships and rekindling sparks that speaks to the heart. 

Chase and Wynne were once besties but a few mistakes tore them apart and 15 years later, they've reunited. One itsy, bitsy, teeny, weeny problem for me was the small town mysterious secret that made me a little leery. 

I loved the way Malone takes a small town and turns it into something special with characters a reader can get behind. The intricate connections and relationships were interesting and gave off a Hallmark vibe that lead to all kinds of melty hearts and swoons. This is the kind of place that settles deep into my soul.

Content: mild romance

My Twin Sister's Ex (Sweet Mountain High Year Two #6) by Cindy Ray Hale {Review}

My Twin Sister's Ex (Sweet Mountain High Year Two #6) by Cindy Ray Hale

Kindle Edition, 153 pages

Published May 1, 2021

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

Onstage with my twin sister’s ex.

What happens when the kissing scene turns real?

Jessilyn

I’ve dreamed of going to theater school for as long as I can remember. When my drama teacher announces a drama competition at our high school, I know it’s the perfect opportunity for me to beef up my college applications. An award like that could help me get into my dream school.

The last thing I was expecting was to get assigned a kissing scene with Bennett. Not only does he think drama is a joke, he used to date my identical twin sister, Jackilyn. Now my only choice is to convince Bennett to actually memorize his lines. I just wasn’t expecting to feel this strongly about him.

Bennett

I thought drama would be easy to pass. Who knew the teacher would be so tough? If I can’t get my grade up, I won’t be able to graduate. When I get paired with Jessilyn for the drama competition, the first thing I want to do is back out. How am I supposed to perform a kissing scene with my ex girlfriend’s insanely jealous twin?

It was one thing to date Jackilyn. She was one of the mean girls, a total rebel. But Jessilyn is a good girl. I can’t let myself fall for her. She deserves better than a bad boy like me. I’ve done things I’m not proud of. But I’m not sure I can stay away from her, and if I want to graduate, I need a good grade in drama. I’m not so sure I’ll make it out of this with my heart intact.

   

My Review: 4 Stars

My sister and I are really close in age and during high school, we often felt compared by friends and boys or even like people thought we were the same person. Jackilyn and Jessilyn are identical twins with completely contrasting personalities, yet somehow, they both have a brush with Bennett. Jackilyn is his ex and Jessilyn is his new drama partner, and while things could be completely sticky and messy with the complicated relationships, Hale writes this story in a way that is sweet and engaging.

I love a fluffy story, but a book with a message zaps me in the heart. The message I took away from this one is that you really can't judge someone only by what you see. People are complex and layered and the first impression that Bennett gives isn't favorable, but there are deep reasons why he appears as he does and I loved delving into his life. Bennett is pretty amazing, as is Jessilyn.

One thing I love about this series is it allows me to vicariously live through the good times of high school. I wish I would've taken theater, but there wasn't room in my schedule, yet I got to have a taste of that experience. Hale does a great job of creating realistic teens and real-life situations, and I really enjoyed it.

Content: mild romance

Full Rigged (Lost Creek Rodeo #4) by Rebecca Connolly, Sophia Summers, Heather B. Moore {Review}

Full Rigged (Lost Creek Rodeo #4) by Rebecca Connolly, Sophia Summers, Heather B. Moore 

250 pages, ebook

Published April 13, 2021

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

 

 

Ford Hopkins is a simple guy. Loves his rodeo life, loves his family, loves his dog, and wants to find his place in the world. Not too complicated, and spending more time down in Lost Creek, Texas, is just what he needs to remind himself of that. But a spitfire doctor staying at his friend’s ranch there could change his simple, uncomplicated life.

Brynn Kershaw needs Broken Hearts Ranch and the haven of recovery it claims to be. Her ex-husband had broken her ability to trust and her emotional stability, both of which are keeping her from living a fulfilling life after the divorce. While she’s at the ranch, calm, quiet, unassuming cowboy Ford somehow manages to sneak through her defensive walls, and could be the key to breaking them all down.

  

My Review: 4 Stars

Lost Creek is the kind of place that I could settle right down in. I love how each story adds another layer to this small Texas town, giving it a nice, cozy feel. I also love seeing each rodeo cowboy appear in all the stories, as it gives them dimension. 

This is Ford's story and a more honest, loyal cowboy can't be found. I love his simple life and straight-forward manner, but most of all, I love the gentleman he is. Brynn is broken and defensive, but this gentle man is there for her in a way she needs.

The Lost Creek Rodeo series is a little heavier than I had anticipated because each of the women have major issues that have landed them in this recovery program, but I like how that gives each story some meat. The free therapy written on some of the pages is healing and applicable to many of life's tough situations.

I enjoyed watching a simple Western life flip upside down faster than a cattle wrestle.

Content: mild romance (vague mention of cheating, kissing); mild rodeo-type violence/danger

World's Worst Boyfriend (Fake It #3) by Carina Taylor {Review}

World's Worst Boyfriend (Fake It #3) by Carina Taylor

Kindle Edition, 263 pages

Publication: April 27th 2021 

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

 

 

 

A romantic comedy adventure


Fletcher is the “World’s Worst Boyfriend” and I have the trophy to prove it—along with the consolation gift card I’ve already spent.

Entering him into the anonymous contest was cathartic and eye opening. It’s obvious I need to end this farce of a relationship… so, I do.

Too bad I’m still comparing every man I meet to Fletcher.
Too bad I can’t get him out of my mind—or my house, for that matter, with the way he’s always stopping by to ‘fix’ something.
And it’s especially too bad that I’m learning not everything is as it seems, and that maybe, just maybe, Fletcher had a good reason for his actions. (Although, there is no justification for the moldy laundry.)

What’s a girl to do? He says he’ll explain everything soon. But am I ready to face that explanation? What if he’s really not the worst—what if I am?
 

A romantic comedy adventure to make you laugh out loud!

 

   

My Review: 4 Stars

I've been seeing this one all over the place and I'm a total sucker for fake relationships and romantic comedies. Jumping right in, I was in for some big surprises...and they weren't at all bad! First off, this isn't really a fake relationship story, but there are fake parts to the relationship. Secondly, this is a RomCom with a twist! Like a cola with a shock of lime and coconut lurking within the cup. The suspense angle not only helped propel the plot, but it was as refreshing as an ice cold drink and had me eagerly gulping it's contents.

Fletcher was yet another surprise! He was a mysterious character in one of the other books in the series and I can't even say how much I adored him in this one. I loved that Fletch and Saidy were already together and the events that happen to earn Fletcher a "prestigious" nomination were hilarious.

Not only did this story have laughs, but there were some intense moments and swoon that make this book stand out from the rest. Taylor has a knack for bringing multiple elements in and tying them up in a neat little bow.

Content: mild romance; mild moments of danger/peril; mild+ language

The Stolen Princess (Desolation #3) by Kortney Keisel {Review}

The Stolen Princess (Desolation #3) by Kortney Keisel

ebook, 362 pages

Published April 26, 2021

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

 

 

She's falling for a man she hates. He's betting on her trust.

Princess Mykaleen Adler would do anything to save her dying father. But, when she's kidnapped by a rival kingdom's commander, her devotion wavers. Developing feelings for her enemy could destroy her future and her kingdom. Unless her charming captor is the one person telling her the truth. 

Drake Vestry's focus is on finding King Adler's deadly weapons. Unfortunately, the only way to the weapons is through the king's daughter, who happens to be the most distracting and entertaining assignment he's ever had. Gaining the princess's trust might mean losing his heart forever.

She's fighting for her kingdom. He's committed to his mission. Can they find their way together, or will broken trust be the most destructive weapon of all?

Perfect for fans of The Selection Series.This is the third book in the Desolation Series and should be read AFTER The Promised Prince. 

  

My Review: 4 Stars

***First of all, you must read The Promised Prince before opening this book up.***  

Myka and Drake have an adorable first encounter, but then things take a little spin and quickly set them completely against one another. Although there is an undercurrent of undeniable attraction, there is also a thread of hurt, anger, and almost hatred. I had to laugh at Myka's antics as she tried to resist the kidnapping, but never fear. She's a very capable and resourceful young woman and it was entertaining to watch her ingenuity come to life.

I loved Drake from TPP and my love for him only grew throughout this book. He's loyal, funny, and a protector. The cast of kidnappers was great and I loved Myka's names for them. The events that occured surrounding that event hung heavy with a sense of foreboding, but there were moments of humor, intrigue, and discovery that lightened it up at times.

Keisel did a good job of connecting the intersecting missions with some adventure, romance (who knew a pinkie could be romantic?!), and danger. The culmination of this story was gasp-worthy and I loved the build up. Such a good story.

Content: mild+ violence (kidnapping, deaths/murders, near attack, etc); mild romance

Warriors of Wing and Flame (Sisters of Shadow and Light Book 2) by Sara B. Larson {Review}

Warriors of Wing and Flame (Sisters of Shadow and Light Book 2) by Sara B. Larson

379 pages

October 27, 2020 by Tor Teen 

Source: Audiobook and I own a copy of the book

 

 

The doorway between the magical Visempirum and the human world has been reopened. Paladin are once more living in the citadel where Zuhra and Inara grew up completely isolated by the magical hedge that trapped them there. Amidst the brewing conflict between the Paladin and humans looms the threat of Barloc, who has stolen Inara’s immense power and continues to elude the Paladin who are desperately searching for him.

In this sequel to Sisters of Shadow and Light, Inara and Zuhra must navigate the treacherous paths of self-discovery, their love for each other, and for the boys who have captured their hearts. Together, they search for the strength within themselves to bridge the divide between the two worlds they inhabit, even as war threatens to destroy everything—and everyone—they love.

   

My Review: 4 Stars

Zuhra and Inara have a sisterly bond like no other and I love that. I have two sisters myself and love that intangible thread that ties us together, although theirs extends a little more than mine does through magic. Just a warning--this is the second book in the duology and MUST be read after the first. 

I enjoyed this book a bit more than the first, due to the fact that there was more action and romance verses world building. I loved watching these sisters gain strength and confidence in the roles they were thrust into and it was satisfying to watch the people come together for a common cause. The points of view alternated between the sisters and there were times when it was murky trying to figure out who was speaking, but I loved getting the insights from both sides.

It's no secret that I'm all about the romance and the sparkles of attractions that glimmered through the conflict and suspense were life. Larson did a good job of tying all these wonderful fantasy elements together--magic, friction, loyalty, and love. 

Content: mild romance; mild violence/peril

Beehives and Broken Heroes (Harvest Ranch Romance #11) by Ellie Thornton {Review}

Beehives and Broken Heroes (Harvest Ranch Romance #11) by Ellie Thornton

Kindle Edition

Published April 5th 2021 

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

 

 

His upright nature will teach her to love again.

Her fiery spirit will bring him back to life.

Allie Ward is swearing off men for good. She’s had it with their lying, thieving, and cheating ways. What she needs to focus on is bettering herself and her business.

But the studly, new investor to her “Sticky and Sweet” honey company, Brandon Carroll, keeps getting in her head. He’s not like the guys she’s dated before. He’s reserved, tough, hard to rile, and surprisingly flirty when she least expects it. She’s torn between wanting to hide from him, and wanting to kiss the life out of him. But, she’ll do neither because she’s a professional . . . and done with men.

Ex-military police officer, Brandon Carroll falls fast for Allie Ward. With her open, crazy, and vivacious zest for life, she’s exactly what he needs to mend his broken heart. But when a ghost from his past rears its sinister head, Brandon will have more than a gorgeous, fighting redhead to deal with. By law, he must keep the mounting dangers stamped “top secret” from her.

But Allie isn’t going to tolerate secrets. In fighting to keep his past from her, he just might lose her for good.

  

My Review: 4 Stars

It always seems like you meet someone when you swear you're done looking, and that's just what happened to Allie. Brandon and Allie had an instantaneously clash of chemistry that was fun to watch this sweet romance unfold. 

Both Brandon and Allie are fun characters. The random friends that appeared were entertaining too, especially the sneak attacks. While there's also a reason for why people do what they do, Brandon and Allie each had a flaw that didn't sit well with me, so it's a good thing they're both so likable--that made it easier to overlook those minor annoyances.

Harvest Ranch is a great small town and I would have loved to see more of it and its residents in this story, but I loved the mix of romance and danger. The kernels of suspense hinted at more and I loved how everything came together, popping the characters into the middle of a perilous situation. But I must say, that ending was the butter drizzled on top--sweet perfection!

Content: mild romance; mild moments of peril

Love & Luck (Love & Gelato #2) by Jenna Evans Welch {Review}

Love & Luck (Love & Gelato #2) by Jenna Evans Welch

Hardcover, 303 pages

Published May 8th 2018 by Simon Pulse 

Source: Audiobook

 

 

 

"I wanted this to be real life, not a detour...."

Addie is visiting Ireland for her aunt’s over-the-top destination wedding and hoping she can stop thinking about the one horrible thing that left her miserable and heartbroken—and threatens her future. But her brother, Ian, isn’t about to let her forget, and his constant needling leads to arguments and even a fistfight between the two once-inseparable siblings.

But when Addie discovers an unusual guidebook, Ireland for the Heartbroken, hidden in the dusty shelves of the hotel library, she’s finally able to escape her anxious mind—and Ian’s criticism.

And then their travel plans change. Suddenly Addie finds herself on a whirlwind tour of the Emerald Isle, trapped in the world’s smallest vehicle with Ian and his admittedly cute Irish-accented friend Rowan. As the trio journeys over breathtaking green hills, past countless castles, and through a number of fairy-tale forests, Addie hopes her guidebook will heal not only her broken heart, but also her shattered relationship with her brother.

That is, if they don’t get completely lost along the way.

 

  

 

My Review: 4 Stars

 

This author has a way of grasping teenage angst and modern issues that teens face by the horns and immersing it all in an emotional story. Addie and her brother, Ian, are fighting while at an aunt's wedding in Ireland and a big change of plans, unbeknownst to their mother, leads them on a wild adventure across the Emerald Isle. 

 

The sibling relationships pierce the heart, while the guidebook that Addie follows was an unexpected turn. It was difficult not to feel Addie's anxiety over the big secret that is keeping her from her enjoying the normal brother-sister relationship with Ian. Rowan, a new Irish friend, added a lighter element to a somewhat melancholy feel. While there wasn't a lot of romance, the issues between friends and family were plenty, and the cast of characters and charming escapade allowed for an entertaining literary vacation.   

Content: mild language

The Austen Escape by Katherine Reay {Review}

The Austen Escape by Katherine Reay

Paperback, 320 pages

Published November 7th 2017 by Thomas Nelson 

Source: Borrowed from the library

 

 

 

After years of following her best friend’s lead, Mary Davies finds a whimsical trip back to Austen’s Regency England paves the way towards a new future.

Mary Davies lives and works in Austin, Texas, as an industrial engineer. She has an orderly and productive life, a job and colleagues that she enjoys—particularly a certain adorable, intelligent, and hilarious consultant. But something is missing for Mary. When her estranged and emotionally fragile childhood friend Isabel Dwyer offers Mary a two-week stay in a gorgeous manor house in Bath, Mary reluctantly agrees to come along, in hopes that the holiday will shake up her quiet life in just the right ways. But Mary gets more than she bargained for when Isabel loses her memory and fully believes that she lives in Regency England. Mary becomes dependent on a household of strangers to take care of Isabel until she wakes up.

With Mary in charge and surrounded by new friends, Isabel rests and enjoys the leisure of a Regency lady. But life gets even more complicated when Mary makes the discovery that her life and Isabel’s have intersected in more ways that she knew, and she finds herself caught between who Isabel was, who she seems to be, and the man who stands between them. Outings are undertaken, misunderstandings play out, and dancing ensues as this triangle works out their lives and hearts among a company of clever, well-informed people who have a great deal of conversation.

 

   

 

My Review: 4 Stars

 

I wanted a tale that mimicked another book with a similar premise--a jaunty trip to England to delve into all things Regency, with little side romances blooming up among the flowers. This story was entertaining and took some interesting turns, but wasn't what I was expecting..and that's not necessarily a bad thing. Although the more I think about it, this book does have characters patterned slightly after beloved book characters. 

 

Mary is walked all over by crazy Isabel and tied to her in inexplicable ways, yet she just can't break free. Isabel is the victim of neglect and only wants to be loved and accepted for who she is, going to extreme lengths to feel even a glimpse of those desperately longed for feelings. Nathan is amazing, but too vague in his Texas interactions with these two best friends, leaving a messy situation to be dealt with. However, the events gave way to a charming story that definitely entertained.

This author has a unique way of drawing classics into her contemporary offerings, giving them a slight depth, with good lessons and messages, mingled with fun.

Content: mild romance; vague talk of past neglect.

One More Chance (Romeo Family Romance #11) by Jennifer Youngblood {Review}

One More Chance (Romeo Family Romance #11) by Jennifer Youngblood

Kindle Edition, 206 pages

Published March 16th 2021 by Arbor House Books 

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

 

 

 

The one you’ve been waiting for … Knox and Birdie’s story, the stunning conclusion of the Romeo Family Romance Series.

Knox and Birdie Romeo have had their share of heartaches, and yet, they’ve managed to weather the storm. They’ve raised a good, productive family and are looking forward to the time when they will have more grandchildren.

Despite past indiscretions that broke apart their marriage, they’re in a good place now—they’re best friends. Do they dare reach for anything more?

Things are about to get tricky when Birdie’s former boyfriend moves back to town and tries to win her back.

 

   

 

My Review: 4 Stars

 

The Romeo Family series has been a delight and has delivered all types of romance tropes. From the start, the reader sees that the patriarch and matriarch of this family are no longer married, yet they have a very amicable relationship and come together often for the sake of their large family. This final conclusion to the series was full of suspense, romance, hope, and surprises. 

 

This author has a way of drawing the reader into her writing, engaging all types of emotions, and I enjoy getting lost in her books. Although I'm no longer young (physically), I personally don't enjoy romance books with main characters my age or older and that was a hard hurdle for me to get over. The characters are solid and come to life with their individually unique personalities. Youngblood does a great job with this second chance romance, answering questions and tying up loose ends, and it was fun to get an ending...with a tangent of something new.

Content: mild romance; mild moments of peril/danger; talk of death, cheating, murder, cancer) 

A Kiss to Build a Dream On by Holly Stevenson {Review}

A Kiss to Build a Dream On (Harvest Ranch Romance #9) by Holly Stevenson

Kindle Edition, 178 pages

Publication: March 22nd 2021 by Olive Leaf Press 

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

She’s determined to save her orchard … even if it means dealing with an imposing film producer for a while.

Meg Atwood loves the orchard she grew up on and would do anything to keep it afloat, including allowing it to be used as the filming location for the next Fletcher Forsyth movie. Meg isn’t excited about having her beloved land overrun with actors and film crews, but she can’t turn down the money they’re offering—even if she has to put up with the arrogant film producer for a little while.

The moment Fletcher laid eyes on the rural Virginia farmhouse and surrounding orchards he knew it would be an ideal filming location. What he didn’t expect was the cute orchard owner to prove to be such a distraction. Meg is completely different from the women Fletcher has known, and he finds himself falling fast for the hard-working country girl. But Meg seems just as protective of her heart as she is of her property.

As Meg and Fletcher spend time together, the attraction between them blossoms like the first buds of spring and they’ll have to decide whether to let the frost of fear and doubt harden their hearts, or whether they can let love bloom where its planted.

 

 

    

My Review: 4 Stars

 

One of my favorite things about this series is to see the same events and characters from other stories make appearances from a slightly different perspective. I love this small community of Harvest Ranch and I'm enjoying the many facets and people. This story showcases an orchard and the hardworking brother and sister who run it. In order to bring in more money, Dillon allows it to be used for a film and Meg is against all things Hollywood, but steps in to help out when a family emergency arises.

 

The director, Fletcher, formed an insta-attraction with Meg, but there are obstacles to climb. This author does a good job of blending Hollywood and farm life with two fantastic characters who each possess some depth and stubbornness. Although Meg is fiercely independent and headstrong, she is also loyal and feels things deeply, which made her easy for me to relate to.

 

Most of this book took place within a day or two, so it felt like things happened quite quickly for my taste, but when you know, you know. It was heartwarming to watch these individuals come together for a common cause and I look forward to seeing these new friends again.

 

Content: mild romance

Springtime Love at the Homestead Inn (the Haven Hills Homestead Inn #1) by Kimberly Krey {Review}

Springtime Love at the Homestead Inn (The Haven Hills Homestead Inn #1) by Kimberly Krey

Kindle Edition

Expected publication: March 18th 2021 

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

 

 

 

She's a billionaire thrust into hiding. He's a wealthy cowboy seeking solitude. When the two are roped into running his granddad's inn, they're captured by an unforeseen romance. But will the secrets of her past destroy their blooming love?


--------------------------


Five billionaire siblings are sent into hiding when their mafia-linked granddad makes a plea bargain that puts them at risk. Through a relocation program, they're sent to help run The Homestead Inn.

Now each must hide their secret past, adapt to their unexpected future, and learn how to answer the call when love comes knocking.

 

   

 

My Review: 4 Stars

 

What an intriguing premise! Krey has a way of captivating a reader with her elements of swoon and danger, and this series is no exception to her style. Homestead Inn is a solid place to settle down in with a fresh start, and although Andie and her brothers come across as being superior and impersonal, especially towards each other, a little digging uncovers some pretty great characters.

 

I enjoyed watching Andie evolve and thrive in her new role, while simultaneously finding love. The chemistry is palpable from the very first meeting with cowboy Trenton, who has secrets of his own. I love a story with themes of loyalty and family, and this book had them in spades. The hints of danger looming over the pages was very compelling.

 

The setting is like a warm, cozy hug--perfect for those seeking safety--and I'm eagerly anticipating the other books in the series. I can't wait to get to know these brothers better!  

 

Content: mild romance; brief mention of past violence

Rough Stock (Lost Creek Rodeo Book 3) by Heather B Moore, Rebecca Connolly, Sophia Summers {Review}

Rough Stock (Lost Creek Rodeo Book 3) by Heather B Moore

Kindle Edition, 258 pages

Published March 9th 2021

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

 

 

 

Life on the road is good . . . Until he meets her and realizes what he’s missing.

Westin Farr has been focused on one thing. To match his dad’s perfect 100-point record in professional bull riding. It’s getting closer; he can feel it. Although he misses his dad, life is good. Westin spends his days on the road, his nights bull riding, and his free time with his former college rodeo buddies—the Original Six. But when he meets the feisty Silvia Diaz, Westin finds that his lofty goals might not be so important after all.

The last thing Silvia wants to do is ‘work on herself’ at Broken Hearts Ranch in the tiny town of Lost Creek, Texas. And the last thing she needs is a cowboy sweet-talking her into staying. She agrees to give the place one week, one week only, and then she’s returning to normal life. Not even a bull rider who seems to look straight into her heart can change her mind . . . until he does.

 

  

 

My Review: 4 Stars

 

I'm a big fan of the Lost Creek Rodeo setting and loved getting to know the bull rider, Westin, much, much better. According to country songs, some cowboys are good at loving and leaving a woman, but Westin is a gentleman and as loyal and honest as they come--a salt-of-the-earth type of guy. His truck is as old as his hat and he often sleeps under said truck. He's a very charming and hard working character and the perfect match up for feisty Latina, Silvia. She's a spitfire and determined to get out from under the thumb of her overprotective older brother, who just happens to be one of the Belltown Six Pack pro baseball players! I loved her spunk and sass. This mashup of characters from different series, as the Prosper family makes appearances too, warmed my heart.

 

This story is one that gradually wormed its way right into my heart, with the wide skies, horses, first country experiences, and swoony sparks. I could picture the rodeo events and almost held my breath with those terrifying bull rides. 

 

Although each character has issues to overcome in this series, their challenges aren't too heavy. I love the bits and pieces that each installment adds to build this town into something special. And as an added bonus? This book has recipes for guacamole AND barbecue sauce and I was craving some good food while reading.

Content: mild language; mild moments of violence/peril due to rodeo

First Shift (The Wolves of Rock Falls) by AJ Skelly {Review}

First Shift (The Wolves of Rock Falls) by AJ Skelly

Paperback, First Edition

Published 2021 by Wild Rose Press, Inc 

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

 

 

 

Sam Wolfe has been in love with Megan Carmichael for years. Too bad she's off-limits. She's human. He's not. When an accidental slip of his teeth endangers Megan and his entire werewolf pack, it's up to Sam to find a solution. Unbeknownst to them, Sam's bite has thrust Megan into the crosshairs of a killer. Sam and Megan must work together to find the threat, protect the pack, and maybe fall in love. But they better do it before the next full moon.  

 

   

 

My Review: 4 Stars

 

It's a little cliche for a werewolf book to have a Wolfe family, but don't let that scare you off. Although this isn't my typical go-to genre, I found it to be interesting and entertaining. I love the world Skelly created, merging humans with werewolves. Although the main characters are teens, there are many moments of swoon, danger, and mystery swirling around them.

 

Sam and Megan are believable protagonists, acting their ages with the drama, jealousy, indecisiveness, and immaturity, but after a slowish accidental start, the growth that occurred within each of them and between them was as intense as the flourishing plot. I found myself deeply caring about what would happen and wondering how it would all resolve, especially when a few twists made their appearances. 

 

This isn't a one-and-done story, but is the start of something intriguing, and I'm looking forward to reading more to see how it will all come together. 

 

Content: moderate (PG-13) romance (passionate kissing, some innuendo, fade-to-black between a married couple, frank talk of sex); mild + (PG/PG-13) violence (wolf bites and fights/injuries); mild language