Inventing Vivian (The Blue Orchid Society #2) by Jennifer Moore {Review}

Inventing Vivian (The Blue Orchid Society #2) by Jennifer Moore

224 pages, Paperback
Publication June 7, 2021
Source: I received a complimentary copy through the publisher. All opinions expressed are my own and were voluntarily given. 

Ladies of London’s High Society are known for their social graces and poise. Vivian Kirby boasts neither of these enviable qualities, though she does offer impressive conversation on chemical compositions. Unfortunately, it appears that not many men want a brilliant wife. So it is that Vivian finds kinship with a group of young women who embrace each other’s differences: The Blue Orchid Society.

After an extended stay in China, Lord Benedict has returned transformed to his family’s estate, where an encounter with Vivian, whose scientific knowledge he once undermined, leaves him determined to make amends. He arranges to help forward her research—anonymously, of course. Through letters, Vivian establishes a warm friendship with her secret benefactor, even as she’s unexpectedly drawn into a murder investigation that forces her to work alongside Benedict to unearth the truth. Soon, Vivian fears she may be falling in love with two men, never suspecting that they are one and the same.

 

   

My Review: 4.5 Stars

I love a book with a good, strong female lead and it was especially fun to watch Vivian develop her love of science. The Blue Orchid society is a wonderfully diverse and solid group of innovative young ladies in the Victorian era and it's such a joy to delve into each of their stories.

Vivian is very smart and not afraid to be true to herself. She's a sharp character that was a delight to read about and I just adored her. I loved Lord Benedict and the whole situation regarding him. Moore always introduces a thread to her stories that aren't the norm for the time periods she writes in, and this whole series is evident of that. The Chinese element was enjoyable and interesting as well.

Solid characters with a solid plot. Personally, I wanted more romance, since this is labeled as a Victorian romance, but all in all, this is a very entertaining book in a wonderful series and I'm anticipating the rest of the Society's stories.

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

Only Time Will Tell (A Charles & Company Romance, Book 2) by Amy Matayo {Review}

Only Time Will Tell (A Charles & Company Romance, Book 2) by Amy Matayo

Kindle Edition, 257 pages
Publication June 3, 2021
Source: I received a complimentary copy. All opinions expressed are my own and were voluntarily given. 

 

 

 

For newly published author Eliza Sterling, having her first book launch party at the Metropolitan Museum of Art is a dream come true. Since her book is a modern-day retelling of Great Expectations by Charles Dickens and the Met is hosting a display of rarely seen Dickens’ artifacts at the same time, she chalks it up to a case of good timing.

For publicly disgraced, former best-selling author Lew McDonnell, seeing a debut author having her first book launch party at the Met brings up all sorts of resentments. Especially when the book this lady is promoting just happens to be one of his old manuscripts that she’s clearly plagiarized and claimed for herself.

When heated words are exchanged in front of a display case containing an original copy of Great Expectations, both Lew and Eliza are prepared for a fight. But they aren’t prepared for the room to shake, for the display case to shatter, or for the old book to send them both careening toward a new existence entirely.

When Lew wakes up on the floor of the Charles Dickens museum in London to see Eliza working there as a tour guide, he knows something has gone horribly wrong. It’s the same day and time, but suddenly he’s the best-selling author headlining his own book launch again, and Eliza is serving him drinks and working all hours to make ends meet. And the weirdest thing of all?

Lew is the only one who remembers their former lives. 

  

 

My Review: 4.5 Stars

One of my favorite things to do lately is read a book without reading the synopsis. Of course, this only works when it's written by an author I love. I had no idea what I was getting into with this one and I loved that, confusing bits and all. While there is still a time travel element in this one (more of a time shift), it didn't feel quite as shocking and pronounced, but it was every bit as entertaining and I was left wondering about the outcome until the very end.

Lew and Eliza have a wonderfully jolting clash at first meet, and that dynamic serves them well as they encounter once again. I loved that this story was about two authors and the think that ties their lives together is a book. I enjoyed watching how things developed and evolved in the lives of these great characters. Matayo's wit shines through the pages. The creativity and twists were a lot of fun, and this story was very enjoyable. I only wished for more romance.

Content: very mild romance; flashback moments of peril/danger (an accident)

The Charade (Eden Falls Academy #1) by Judy Corry {Review}

The Charade (Eden Falls Academy #1) by Judy Corry

Kindle Edition, 402 pages
Publication May 17, 2021

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

 

 

My math tutor has one rule: he doesn’t date the girls he tutors at our private school.

But a fake relationship that’s beneficial to us both? That’s a different story.

Our agreement helps Carter get revenge on his ex while it helps me hide the real reason why we’re spending so much time together. Win-win.

Plus, flirting with the hottest guy at school is kind of fun.

As long as the feelings stay as fake as the show we’re putting on, there shouldn’t be a problem. Right?

The Charade is a forbidden romance about the new girl and the guy who everyone sees as untouchable.

 

   

 

My Review: 4.5 Stars

 

Eden Falls is a mystical place, especially when twins Ava and Elyse find themselves attending their senior year there at a boarding school. Lifelong secrets threaten to spill and a fake romance emerges. Told in alternating points-of-view, this story captured me and twisted my heart from start to finish, but especially when a love becomes forbidden. 

 

Corry is a talented genius when it comes to infusing the lighter parts of teen life with the heavy, angsty drama that is always lurking in the shadows. I love how she introduces real-life issues to her characters lives and allows the reader to wade through them with the protagonists, together. Her writing style is engaging, memorable, and raw, and I just can't devour her words fast enough. 

 

Though Ava and Elyse are both great characters, it's Ava's head the reader enters. She struggles with school, but works hard and has such a fun, sassy, flirty personality. We are also treated to Carter's point-of-view and he's a total contradiction. There are some themes and issues that seemed more adult than young adult in this book, but it did help me to know the characters were seniors in high school and some of them had even turned 18. I enjoyed meeting their new friends and classmates and I can't tell you how excited I am to delve into more of their lives in future books!

 

Content Warning: As I mentioned before, this story is real and raw, and while I know a lot of teens are sexually active, it's not something I'm a fan of in books. While the reader doesn't see it happen, it's talked about and implied. Otherwise, there's just kissing/making out.

Campfires and Kisses (Harvest Ranch Romance #13) by MK Dymock {Review}

Campfires and Kisses (Harvest Ranch Romance #13) by MK Dymock

ebook, 189 pages

Published April 19, 2021

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

 

 

A fake engagement, two sworn enemies—what could go wrong?

Rielle rarely saw her parents, but she found a surrogate father in John, the owner of a nearby children’s camp. Now he’s left half of it to her. A dream come true—except she has to share her inheritance with John’s neglectful son who abandoned his father years ago.



Sutton wants nothing more than to sell the rundown camp and its bitter memories—his dad was the perfect dad to every kid except his own son. 



The camp has fallen on hard times, and Rielle doesn’t have the money to buy out Sutton. With their last dollar, they plan a singles camp—promising adventure and love. Someone starts the rumor the old enemies are engaged, and suddenly the camp sells out.



All Sutton and Rielle need to do is fake the engagement for a week. Then they can finally disappear from each other’s lives . . . if that’s what they still want.

 

My Review: 4.5 Stars

Rielle and Sutton have a deep hatred for one another, yet they are bound together in a risky business attempt to cut ties once and for all. An entrancing enemies-to-love with characters thrust into a fake engagement was just the thing for a weekend of reading.

Rielle and Sutton each have thick layers of hurt to unravel and I loved how these coverings were slowly peeled away through the course of the story. Honestly, Sutton wasn't very likable at first. He came across as cold and unfeeling, while Rielle was a bucket full of sunshine--until it came to dealing with him and his exasperating ways.

The premise of a week-long love-finding adventure in the hills around the glorious small town of Harvest Ranch was an exciting escapade, especially when trouble arises, bringing these opponents together. This is my first Dymock book and it won't be my last. I really enjoyed the way this author blended growth and entertainment. My only wish was for a few more sparks earlier on.

Content: mild romance; mild scene of danger/peril 

Hawaii Ever After (Burke Billionaire Romance #4) by Rachelle J. Christensen {Review}

Hawaii Ever After (Burke Billionaire Romance #4) by Rachelle J. Christensen

Kindle Edition, 184 pages

Published April 7th 2021 by Peachwood Press 

 

 

 

A ballet dancer at the end of her career.

A handsome Hawaiian who chops coconuts for a living.

Their two worlds collide with a smoldering kiss, but is the chemistry enough to overlook their differences?

Gracie Cardulo has performed for the New York ballet for over a decade, but her body can’t keep up with the rigorous demands of dance anymore. She arrives on the isle of Kauai for her billionaire best friend’s wedding to consider new job options and ends up dancing with the best man, Pika Sepe. The entire island is filled with romance when she’s with the handsome Hawaiian, but can she truly be happy without dance?

Pika has always worked a blue-collar job and most of the time barely makes ends meet. When Gracie dances into his life, she inspires him to go after his dreams of taking tourists on island adventures. In between deep-sea fishing, sweet kisses, and hikes along the Na’ pali coast, Gracie and Pika each find something they were missing.

When Pika’s ex-girlfriend stirs up trouble, Pika and Gracie must dig deep to find out if their love is meant to be. Can they hold together when people keep trying to pull them apart? Will their love last beyond the beautiful island sunset, or fade into the deep waters of doubt?

♥This novel is Book #4 in the Burke Billionaire Romance Series and includes a bonus sneak peek of one of my books! Books can be read in any order.

 

   

 

My Review: 4.5 Stars

 

Sometimes a delightfully sweet romance set in a tropical location is just the vacation that is desperately needed, especially in today's world, and this one was much wanted today. 

 

Gracie is on the verge of her ballet career ending and becoming reacquainted with Pika in Kauai at their mutual friends wedding was exactly the spark required to set their common attraction ablaze. Although there was trouble some in paradise, this story was easy and satisfying. I loved the descriptions of The Garden Island and since I was fortunate enough to go there once several years ago, I could vividly picture (and even smell) things in my mind, and I loved every single minute of it.

 

While there is an instant love, Pika and Gracie are fantastic characters. It was so enjoyable to watch them work together to decorate their friends house, while discovering more about themselves and making some big life decisions. I would have loved more, but all in all, this was a great escape! 

 

Content: mild romance 

A Captain for Caroline Gray by Julie Wright {Review}

A Captain for Caroline Gray by Julie Wright

Paperback, 336 pages

Publication: March 2nd 2021 by Shadow Mountain 

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

Caroline Gray would rather be daring and intelligent than demure and insipid, which is why she is still unmatched after her third season in London. Her family’s threadbare finances leave Caroline with only one choice to secure her future: sail with the Fishing Fleet to India, where the son of a family friend is willing to consider an engagement to her.

Captain Thomas Scott loves the open sea as much as he despises the three-month, twice-yearly trip his ship makes as he ferries young English girls across the ocean. He can’t imagine what family would allow an innocent young woman to be matched up with the Englishmen of questionable reputation who work and live in India.

But when Miss Gray boards the HMS Persistence, all of Captain Scott’s plans are upended. Miss Gray’s fiery spirit can’t be contained, and he is shocked and secretly delighted at her boldness—and her beauty. But the rest of his passengers aren’t so kind.

Caroline finds herself an outcast among her peers, but Captain Scott becomes an unlikely ally. They share the same passions and interests, creating an undeniable attraction. But they both know any relationship between them is impossible. After all, Caroline has obligations to fulfill in India.

Caroline has until the end of the voyage to decide if she is going to marry a man she has never met or be brave enough to love a sea captain who just might break her heart.

 

   

 

My Review: 4.5 Stars

 

I adore Regency stories and this one had a few unique twists that made it stand out. Caroline is at the end of her options in England and a plan is hatched to send her to India to see if a match can be made there. I've always found these times in this country to be slightly mysterious and fascinating, and this story was no different, especially as most of the story took place on a ship in the middle of the sea.

 

Caroline is a very outspoken, opinionated young lady who has cultivated her interests in topics more than her interest in a match and that fire is exactly what captures Captain Scott's attention. I absolutely loved him and the way he would react to and engage with Caroline. The supporting cast of characters was equally charming.

 

The whole plot was fresh and fun. You'd think because it takes place in such close confines it would get a little stale, but that was definitely not the case. I was hooked from start to finish, but...the story felt like it just suddenly ended and I wanted a little bit more. An epilogue or just one more chapter would have made it perfection.

 

Content: mild romance; mild moments of peril/violence 

The Accidental Text by Becky Monson {Review}

The Accidental Text by Becky Monson

Kindle Edition, 273 pages

Published January 5th 2021

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

 

Wrong number. Right guy?

Once upon a time, Maggie Cooper lived for adventure. Jumping out of planes was child’s play. Now she can’t even work up the nerve to ask out her coworker. For a bit of self-therapy, she begins to text her recently deceased mother’s phone—the only problem is that the number has been reassigned and for weeks she’s been unknowingly texting a stranger her deepest thoughts and feelings. There have also been some not-so-deep texts, like the ones about her appreciation for her coworker’s butt.

When Chase Beckett, the unsuspecting stranger who has more in common with Maggie than he’d like to admit, texts back, Maggie is beyond mortified. But message after message and night after night, Maggie realizes that Chase’s wit, charm, and advice are exactly what the doctor ordered. Is it enough, though, to get her back up in the sky? And what about her heart? Can she risk taking a leap of faith for the man on the other end of her accidental texts? 

  

My Review: 4.5 Stars

I love it when a story takes me by surprise like this one did. I was expecting light-hearted, embarrassing RomCom humor, but a slightly deeper, heart-felt story emerged instead. The book was very subdued at the start and I wasn't sure where it was headed, but don't worry--Monson swirled in the wit and charm. And I ate it right up!

Maggie and Chase do meet in an unconventional meet cute, but the way their friendship progressed was natural, sweet, and perfect. I loved the way they pushed and encouraged growth in each other. I was hoping for a tad more romance, but the whole package was such an enjoyable journey that struck me right smack in the middle of my heart. It made me think and it made me feel. And now I'm hoping for a companion book with Hannah's story.

Content: mild romance; mild language

The Twelve Holidates by Emma St. Clair {Review}

The Twelve Holidates by Emma St. Clair

Kindle Edition, 90 pages

Published December 20th 2020 

Source: Kindle Unlimited

 

 

 

If someone tells you that waiting for your boyfriend in a giant stocking is a good idea, they’re WRONG.

I learn this the hard way when I discover my boyfriend is cheating on me.

Once again, I find myself crying on the very broad and sturdy shoulders of my best friend, Weston.

And even though he rejected me when we were kids, my feelings for Weston start bubbling back to the surface.

Especially when he insists that we work our way through the list of twelve holidates I had planned for my ex.

Twelve dates with my super hot and totally perfect BFF? Um, okay. You don’t have to ask me twice!

Only… the dates continue to be disasters.

The biggest disaster of all is the way I’m about to get my heart crushed AGAIN by my best friend.

Because I can’t hide my feelings anymore, and I don’t think being just friends is enough.

Winning over Weston would take a Christmas miracle …

This Christmas novella is a companion story to the Love Clichés Sweet RomCom series. You'll see some of the same characters from Falling for Your Best Friend's Twin and Falling for Your Boss.

 

   

 

My Review: 4.5 Stars

 

Taylor and Weston star in a seriously adorable and funny Christmas RomCom that had me smiling throughout. My husband and I are a tale of friends-to-love and I always enjoy it when an author does that trope well. It's scary to declare your feelings, yet that's what young teen Taylor did years ago and with no reciprocation, it's the friend zone for them. Fast forward years and many bad boyfriend choices later, and a different ending just might result...

 

St. Clair does a fantastic job of bringing these characters to life. Taylor isWeston is solid and patient, and oh, so creative as he takes over the list of holiday dates after Date #1 goes awry for Taylor. I anticipated their outings and swooned through them all, although Grandma, in all her quirkiness, had me feeling a little uneasy for some of them.

 

This is one of my favorite types of light-hearted Christmas stories and I loved that I could devour it faster than a batch of thickly frosted sugar cookies with sprinkles--and it was just as sweet and delicious. 

 

Content: mild romance

Christmas at Turtledove Place (Sugarplum Falls Romance Book 2) by Jennifer Griffith {Review}

Christmas at Turtledove Place (Sugarplum Falls Romance Book 2) by Jennifer Griffith

Kindle Edition, 166 pages

Published December 1st 2020 

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

 

 

 

Lights on a frozen waterfall. A cozy fireplace. A nanny carrying a torch for the single-dad.

Captain Beau Cabot can’t keep a nanny. It isn’t that his kids are bad, it’s that the helpers he hires can’t seem to believe him when he says the only needs they should take care of are the children’s. Forced to fire his lustful childcare worker at the worst moment, Beau can’t leave for his weekend military assignment. His aunt suggests finding a wife, but that won’t save this moment.

With just weeks to go until Christmas, Sophie Hawkins gets some terrible news. Her sister has up and abandoned her family—to become a rock star’s groupie. Worse, Beau is rumored to have lost a few nannies. Who will care for the two cutest kids in the world this holiday? Kids whose lives have been upended?

Despite Sophie’s unwise but unstoppable lifelong crush on her ex-brother-in-law, Beau, Sophie races to Sugarplum Falls. She plans to stay just for one weekend, especially considering the still-smoldering torch she carries for Beau, who is now divorced and finally fair game. Beau knows, however, you don’t fall for the nanny. Especially when she’s your ex-sister-in-law.


Come to Sugarplum Falls for love, Christmas traditions, home, family, and hearth. Nanny romance Christmas at Turtledove Place is book 2 in the Sugarplum Falls Romance series by award-winning clean romance author Jennifer Griffith. Other books in the series includeChristmas at Holly Berry Cottage, and Christmas at Angels Landing. Read all three for a sweet holiday romance treat.

 

  

 

My Review: 4.5 Stars

 

I love the small town of Sugarplum Falls, brimming with tradition and loyalties, and this is a great addition to the series. Sophie is a great character, with her love of Christmas and for her niece and nephew. When her ex-brother-in-law needs help with the kids after her sister leaves them, Sophie drops everything to be there for them. One of the best things about this story is the darling children. They love unconditionally and are so precocious, especially as they inadvertently bring love to their father again.

 

Beau and Sophie have an obvious underlying chemistry, but this type of relationship is tricky, with the potential to be icky. However, Griffith does a great job in capturing the attraction and delivering a warm, loving, and sweet holiday story. I loved the aircraft elements, as well as the aversion to fireplaces. This story is one to warm the heart!

Content: mild romance (light innuendo, kissing)

One Singing Bachelorette by Jennifer Youngblood {Review}

 One Singing Bachelorette (A Romeo Family Romance) by Jennifer Youngblood

Kindle Edition

Published October 1st 2020 

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

 

****

 

The Romeo Family Romance Series continues with Lexi Romeo’s story. This one is a crossover with the popular O'Brien family romance series.

It's not easy being a cousin to the illustrious Romeos and having to walk in their shadows. However, Lexi Romeo is holding her own. She's determined to make it as a singer and songwriter. A chance to become one of the hopeful bachelorettes on a TV reality series might just be her ticket to fame. However, one look into Asher O'Brien's piercing blue eyes, and her world is rocked ...

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

My Review: 4.5 Stars

 

This is such a great family saga and it's no secret that I love a good reality TV type of story. What's extra fun about this one is that it's not only about finding love, it's about music.

Lexi definitely has talent and when a last minute spot opens up on the show, she manages to snag it with her family connections. It can't be easy being kind to catty women, but Lexi is such a sweet soul and manages to steal the show with this story. I was drooling over her culinary creations, cheering her on in love, and longing to hear her voice singing her songs. Bachelor Asher was completely dreamy and I loved how gentlemanly he was towards this cast of women and enjoyed watching all interactions unfold.

Although drama is expected in this type of story line, I was caught off guard by some of the happenings. I loved it, I hate it, I just couldn't look away, and I definitely wanted a few more romantic and emotional interactions. My world was rocked by this sweet and entertaining story.

Content: mild+ romance (kissing, near rape); mild religion

My Second Chance (Ridgewater High #4) by Judy Corry {Review}

 

My Second Chance (Ridgewater High #4) by Judy Corry

Kindle Edition, 276 pages

Published October 12th 2018 

 

     

 

They broke the rules. He broke her heart. Does their love deserve a second chance?

Sixteen-year-old Juliette Cardini has been keeping a secret for months. Before she went to her semester abroad in Paris, she dated her best friend's older brother, Easton Stevens. What had started as a whirlwind romance filled with forbidden meetings, came to a crashing halt when they crossed a line together that neither of them could return from.

Now she's back in Ridgewater and has to face everyone she left behind. But there's one more secret she is afraid for anyone to discover. She's pregnant. And Easton is the father.

But she has a plan: go to her grandma's house in Buffalo for the next few months. Keep the baby a secret. No one will ever have to know. But when Juliette sees signs that Easton might want a second chance, she wonders if keeping everything to herself is the best choice.

Can a relationship built on such a rocky foundation have a chance at a happy ending? And what will Easton do if Juliette's secret comes out?

MY SECOND CHANCE is a standalone novel in The Ridgewater High series, a collection of simmering YA contemporary romances. If you like sweet romance with ballad-worthy chemistry, swoony kisses and endearing characters then you'll love Judy Corry's latest book.

**This is a clean romance with a positive message.

 

My Review: 4.5 Stars

 

This was a hard book for me to rate. On one hand, I absolutely loved it and the message it sent, but on the other hand, it was a tough topic to read about (or listen to, in my case). After listening to Book 1 in the series, I grabbed the others and this was the next one in line. I listened to the whole thing in less than a day because I just couldn't let it go. In some ways, it was like passing a car accident, all messy and concerning, but in other ways, it simply had a strong grasp on my emotions that just wouldn't release. I couldn't fathom what Juliette and Easton were going through and I could not imagine how things could possible resolve. I was more than invested in their lives for a time and I'm not mad about it.

 

Everyone makes mistakes in their lives--some just have more lasting consequences than others. The positive messages and vibes in this book were so encouraging, especially with the romantic tension oozing off the pages. One accident doesn't mean the game is over and lessons can be learned moving forward. I utterly loved these characters!

Corry does a fantastic job of tackling a modern, sensitive topic and portraying some pretty accurate emotions and reactions. Juliette and Easton are fantastic characters and I was riveted to their story.  

 

Content: moderate romance (kissing, teen pregnancy) 

One Southern Cowboy (Romeo Family Romance #6) by Jennifer Youngblood {Review}

 

 

 

One Southern Cowboy (Romeo Family Romance #6) by Jennifer Youngblood

Kindle Edition, 172 pages

Published August 25th 2020 

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

 

    

 

Sometimes you have to forget all that you know … to learn how to love again.

The player in the family, Jaxson goes through girlfriends faster than a hot knife through butter. A near fatal accident with a familiar face might be the very thing to give this cowboy a fresh take on love and loyalty.

Jaxson locked his heart a long time ago and has no intention of opening it back up for anyone. Sure, he was heartbroken once when his ex-girlfriend Lemon betrayed him, but that was a lifetime ago. He has long since moved on. Then, why is he seeing Lemon? Was it her at the rodeo? Or a trick of the light?

Coming home from Hartley and Ramsey’s wedding, Jaxson gets the shock of his life when he sees Lemon standing in the middle of the road. He swerves to miss her …

Was she real or did he only imagine it?

Get ready for a suspenseful ride! Where secrets abound and tender love gets a second chance. A place for the heart to remember, even when the head can’t.

My Review: 4.5 Stars

I really enjoy this series because each story about different family members is fast-paced and suspenseful, but there's a healthy dash of romance splashed in, which makes it a lot of fun. Each person in this family is so unique and has a colorful backstory and it's great to get to know them deeper and watch them fall into the love they all deserve.

In this installment, Jaxson, the playboy rancher, gets a second chance with Lemon, the girl who got away. I would NEVER have thought to use the name Lemon, but it's soooo cute and perfectly fits her.  Their flirty and playful banter, as they became reacquainted, was a special treat, which was the perfect foundation for the things they went through as the story and danger climaxed. I love these characters and the distinctive situations they find themselves in.

Youngblood has created an entertaining niche with this family's series and I always look forward to my time in Tennessee with this captivating crew.

Content: mild romance; mild danger/violence

Enchantment by Camille Peters {Review}

Enchantment by Camille Peters

Kindle Edition, 376 pages

Published June 11th 2020 by Rosewood Publications 

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

 

    

 

When Maren runs away from the threat of a forced marriage, the last place she expects to end up is the Malvagarian Palace, home to the enchanted gardens, a cursed prince, and a magical rose that traps her there. Crown Prince Briar isn’t pleased to be stuck with a troublesome guest, especially one as mischievous and curious as Maren. She, on the other hand, is determined to escape, but instead finds herself inconveniently falling in love with him. Despite her lack of beauty, feelings steadily blossom between her and the prince.

Their budding romance is soon threatened when sinister magic begins to eclipse the enchanted gardens, a darkness which quickly spreads not only to the kingdom, but to the king himself. In order to stop it, Briar and Maren will both be forced to make a heart-wrenching sacrifice, only to realize that the gardens’ requirements may prove too high a price.

Inspired by Beauty and the Beast

 

My Review: 4.5 Stars

 

I have to start by saying that this series has some of the most beautiful covers I've ever seen and the story found beneath this beauty was delightful.

 

Beauty and the Beast is one of my most favorite fairy tales and Peters does a phenomenal job of translating this tale into something fresh, making her own mark in the retelling world. The way she builds this world into something tangible is amazing and incorporating plants and nature is ingenious.

 

I'm a sucker for a crown prince and Briar was an intriguing character. I loved the way he interacted with Maren, how he stuck up for her, and the way they worked together to unravel mysteries, magic, and more in this winsome fairy tale romance. A book with charismatic characters is always a bonus and I really enjoyed watching the progression. Although there were few characters to start with, the ending had an influx and the climax was dazzling, making my head spin and giving me slight anxiety.

 

This book is long, so give yourself some time to get through it, but if you love fairy tales like I do, you'll enjoy it.

 

Content: mild romance; mild moments of danger/peril/adventure 

Her Football Star Ex by Judy Corry {Review}

Her Football Star Ex by Judy Corry

Kindle Edition

Published May 5th 2020 

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

 

   

 

She swore off the man who broke her heart. He's determined to win her back.

When Emerson hears a rumor that her ex-husband, NFL quarterback Vincent Lake, is bringing a plus-one to a wedding they're both set to attend, she signs up for online dating and hopes to find a guy impressive enough to make her famous ex jealous for the night.

Vincent should be on top of the world when he leads his team to the playoffs, but when his best friend accidentally matches with Emerson, it's like a dagger to his heart. He knows she deserves happiness after his betrayal broke their family apart, but watching her move on is proving harder than winning the Super Bowl.

But when they're thrown together before the wedding, and sparks reignite, Emerson begins to believe Vincent truly regrets his mistake. And even though forgiveness seems impossible, Vincent dares to hope the best love stories can come after the biggest heartbreaks.

 

My Review: 4.5 Stars

 

I've often wondered what I would do in certain situations, but it's tough to know without actually being in the thick of things. When Emerson's husband, Vincent, cheats on her, she files for divorce, but they each discover that might have been a hasty decision, because the sparks are still flying higher than the 4th of July fireworks.

Corry does a great job of infusing a steamy clean romance with heartfelt sincerity and regret with this original story. These characters have gone through all the emotions and drag the reader along for the ride too and I appreciated that although cheating is at the center of all the trauma/drama, real remorse is felt and applied. This is one story that was really easy to settle into and enjoy.

Content: mild+ romance (talk of cheating, miscarriage, kissing--some steamy, yet clean)

Stay with Me (A Misty River Romance #1) by Becky Wade {Blog Tour Review and Giveaway}

On Tour with Prism Book Tours

Stay with Me

(A Misty River Romance #1)

By Becky Wade

Christian Contemporary Romance

Hardcover, Paperback & ebook, 368 Pages

May 5th 2020 by Bethany House Publishers



Loving her is a risk he can’t afford . . . and can’t resist.


When acclaimed Bible study author Genevieve Woodward receives an anonymous letter referencing her parents’ past, she returns to her hometown in the Blue Ridge mountains to chase down her family’s secret. However, it’s Genevieve’s own secret that catches up to her when Sam Turner, owner of an historic farm, uncovers the source of shame she’s worked so hard to hide.


Sam has embraced his sorrow, his isolation, and his identity as an outsider. He’s spent years carving out both career success and peace of mind. The last thing he wants is to rent the cottage on his property to a woman whose struggles stir his worst failure back to life. Yet, can he bear to turn her away right when she needs him most?

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My Review: 4.5 Stars

This beautiful story has many facets and lessons embedded within. Gen and Sam are phenomenal characters with flaws and strengths that add depth and dimension to who they are. Wade does a fantastic job of embracing the hard and wrapping it up with hope and goodness, allowing the reader to follow along on an inspirational journey.

I love these character's voices, as their personalities shine through their words and actions. Sam is steady and stalwart, while Gen is more vibrant and social. They way they come together, even with resistance, is heartwarming, especially as they each have demons they face and stories to unfold through the course of the book. 

Amidst the small town charm, a small mystery develops, which succeeds to add another layer to this already great story. My only wish was to see the characters in the prequel show up more. All in all, this is a wonderfully engaging tale and I can't wait for more.

Content: mild+ romance; moderate religion; talk of drug addiction, some vague/past abuse, and murder.

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

Other Books in the Series


Take a Chance on Me

(A Misty River Romance #0.5)

By Becky Wade

Christian Contemporary Romance, Novella

ebook, 97 Pages

February 25th 2020


When baker Penelope Quinn steps in to help her brother’s family through a medical crisis, she’s forced into close proximity with charming Air Force fighter pilot Eli Price.

Penelope has one iron-clad dating rule—she does not date airmen. Months ago, she relaxed her rule with Eli and immediately lived to regret it. After a long deployment, he’s now back in Misty River and, to her dismay, she finds him just as tempting as always.

Eli’s spent months thinking about funny, feisty, creative Penelope. He once leveraged his focus and drive to become a pilot, his childhood dream. Now he's set on leveraging that same focus and drive in order to convince Penelope to give him one more chance.


This romantic prequel novella introduces readers to the quaint mountain town of Misty River and a brand-new series from Christy-winning author Becky Wade!

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About the Author

Becky Wade is the 2018 Christy Award Book of the Year winner for True to You. She is a native of California who attended Baylor University, met and married a Texan, and moved to Dallas. She published historical romances for the general market, then put her career on hold for several years to care for her children. When God called her back to writing, Becky knew He meant for her to turn her attention to Christian fiction. Her humorous, heart-pounding contemporary romance novels have won three Christy Awards, the Carol Award, the INSPY Award, and the Inspirational Reader's Choice Award for Romance. Becky lives in Dallas, Texas with her husband and three children.

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Tour Schedule

Tour Giveaway





One winner will receive:

- A $100 gift card

- A paperback copy of Stay with Me

- A hand-knit scarf

- A pair of earrings

- A package of “Georgia Blues” coffee

- A package of apple oatmeal muffin mix



ENTER HERE

The Matchmaker's Billionaire (Billionaire Bachelor Mountain Cove) by Maria Hoagland {Review}

The Matchmaker's Billionaire (Billionaire Bachelor Mountain Cove) by Maria Hoagland

Kindle Edition

Publication: March 11th 2020 by Red Leaves Press 

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

  

 
There's one simple rule in matchmaking--
don't fall in love with the client.
. . . Oops!

Welcome to Billionaire Bachelor Mountain Cove were billionaires go to disappear for days, weeks, or months. Off the grid, exclusive and remote, it's a place unlike any other.

Best-selling spy novelist Grantham Robbins returns to the quirky small town he grew up in to get away from it all, only to end up right in the middle of all kinds of other drama.

Especially when the matchmaker his personal assistant hires for him is the town's busybody--the one who knows everyone--including him. A little too well.
Why is it Emily Wood can't find his match for love?
 
Because when a matchmaker fails, there are consequences . . .

♥ Pick up your copy of this sweet contemporary romance today! A second-chance homecoming romance inspired by Jane Austen's Emma. ♥

My Review: 5 Stars

How fun is it that this little gem came out around the same time as the new movie Emma? I love this cozy small Arkansas town and Emily is the perfect woman to find a date for Grant, who is a reclusive, awkward best seller author. This couple has a past and I loved unraveling their delicate relationship.

Emily is the resident matchmaker--at least, she takes credit as being such--and her intentions are in the right place, but her cupid's arrows seem to fall short more often than not. This modernized version truly is adorable and I loved settling in with this story, as it felt like coming home. I really enjoy a small town romance, full of second chance possibilities, and a character who comes back to his roots. All of the characters are likable, which really adds to the fun, most particularly the sparring, the flirting, and the assumptions.

Hoagland does a great job of offering some marked differences from the original, while still staying true to the meat of the story and I loved it! I especially enjoyed the Regency ball, the retreat, and the descriptions of this massively thoughtful home and design. Eureka Springs is a place I'm definitely coming back to!

Content: mild romance