Dancing to Freedom (Dreams Edge #0.5) by Traci Hunter Abramson {Review}

Dancing to Freedom (Dreams Edge #0.5) by Traci Hunter Abramson

Kindle Edition, 83 pages
First published April 30, 2021 

Canada, 1960

Ballet is Katerina Petrova’s world. But when the stage lights go dim and the curtain closes, she is simply a young woman who is trapped. On tour with the Soviet Kirov Ballet in Canada, Katerina is watched day and night by her chaperones and ballet security. But no one realizes that her hotel balcony adjoins that of handsome Canadian hockey player Robert Marcell.

Robert is enchanted by Katerina, though he knows little about who she really is. In an attempt to find out more about this mysterious young woman, Robert extends his stay in the hotel. One night, when a teammate’s wife persuades him to join them at the ballet, Robert reluctantly attends. He has no interest in cultural experiences—until Katerina dances onto the stage. Soon, the two are inseparable, but despite their growing love, Katerina knows they can have no future together. They come from different worlds, and to escape her gilded cage would be nearly impossible.

  

My Review: 5 Stars

There's something so intriguing and heartbreaking about a forbidden love and Abramson snapped me to attention with this sweet novella.

Russian ballerina Katerina and Canadian hockey star Robert share an adjacent balcony at a hotel and forge an attracting friendship that I just devoured. Abramson portrays these characters in a lifelike and authentic way that gripped my heart. Details about how captive Katerina was stirred feelings of fear and hope deep in my soul and I desperately wanted Robert to find success. 

Written in a very engaging way, this story nestled itself deep in my heart and left me anticipating more from this series.

Content: mild moments of peril/threat/fear; mild romance 

Silent Partner (A Pine Falls Novel) by Jennifer Peel {Review}

Silent Partner (A Pine Falls Novel) by Jennifer Peel

324 pages, Kindle Edition
Published June 4, 2021
Source: I received a complimentary copy. All thoughts and opinions are my own and were voluntarily given. 

He thinks his silence will protect her. She needs to hear what’s in his heart.

When it comes to love and life, Kinsley Kramer knows one thing—she’s always second best. Tired of feeling like she’s never enough, she decides to give up on men and adopt a cat. What Kinsley doesn’t know is that Brant Holland wants nothing more than to tell the world how much he loves her, but he has kept his distance to protect Kinsley from the secrets he keeps and from his ex-fiancée’s family.

But when Kinsley is about to lose her restaurant, Brant can’t help but act. He steps in and becomes her silent partner. Unable to deny the passion that sizzles between them, they must open painful doors to the past, and the secrets Brant has been keeping must be unleashed. Secrets that threaten to destroy everything and everyone he holds dear. Kinsley must now decide if she can bear the pain of Brant’s past choices and an uncertain future as everything in the Hollands’ world hangs in the balance.

See how it all unfolds in this heart-tugging final chapter of the Pine Falls series.

   

My Review: 5 Stars

The books in this series must be read in order, as the drama and intensity builds with each one and you'll definitely be lost without the backstory. That said, I've been waffling between eagerly anticipating this story and dreading it. Why the contradicting feelings? Because I've been dying to get Kinsley's story, yet this is the end of the series.

This story is full of drama--the kind that makes a reader question everything in life and spend lots of time assessing what they would do in this situation--yet I just couldn't get enough. Peel has a way of magically transporting a person right into her books.

Kinsley and Brant are multi-dimensional characters and I loved peeling their layers to discover what is underneath. They have heavy burdens, yet they are each full of grace. With stories full of love, loss, forgiveness, and tension, these characters grow and although their situations may differ from the reader's, they are built on relatable facets. My heart was tugged and stretched, but I wouldn't have it molded in any other way.

Content: PG-13 romance (kissing; talk of intimacy and some innuendo); mild+ language

Summer Nights at the Homestead Inn: While He Was Sleeping by Kimberly Krey {Review}

Summer Nights at the Homestead Inn: While He Was Sleeping by Kimberly Krey

Kindle Edition
Publication June 1, 2021
Source: I received a complimentary copy. All opinions expressed are my own and were voluntarily given 

Two brothers.
One Woman.
And a whole lot of commotion.

Richard and Ava can't let the others know about their romance.
Good thing they have those warm summer nights.

When a set of billionaire twins unwittingly offer Ava a chance to escape her abusive boyfriend, she takes it. Who knew the one-way trip to Costa Rica would lead them to a relocation program in Haven Hills, where the twins' siblings, including their "oldest ornery brother" Richard live in hiding?

As Ava finds her place in their new destination, she also finds herself drawn to none other than the oldest brother, despite obvious advances from one of the twins. Things take a turn when that twin winds up on strict bedrest while attempting a stunt to impress her. Days later, Ava discovers that Richard feels the same undeniable spark between them, and so starts their summer nights rendezvous. In a hiding spot of their very own, Richard and Ava give into sweet romance, passionate kisses, and talk of how they'll eventually tell his family about their love.

Richard knew better than to fall for a woman his brother Maverick had the hots for. But he can't deny his attraction to Ava, a woman who actually loves math as much as he does. Besides, the two weren't dating. Maverick had no right to stake his claim on her.

But that doesn't change the fact that he and Ava's secret romance could start a whole lot of trouble when he finds out.

   

My Review: 5 Stars

This is a fun series about a family in the witness protection program and I don't think I could do it. This is the second book so far and I love how the reader gets to know the characters better and better as the series progresses, and I can't wait to learn more about the other siblings.

Richard is the eldest and the serious, grumpy brother, but all that changes when Ava shows up with his twin brothers. I loved the vague play on a favorite classic movie, which gave the story some familiarity, but twisted into a messy pile of pure entertainment.

The way the summer heat sparks a swoony, massive attraction that results in a steamy clean hidden romance was perfection. While there are big secrets to be kept by all and obvious walls are high, Krey manages to draw the reader in with some humor, a hint of danger, and more than a few amazing kisses.

This is a cute story that was the perfect reading escape and I can't wait for more!

Content: mild+ romance (some light innuendo, steamy-clean kissing); mild violence (talk of abuse)

Rescue a Stubborn Heart (Hudson Brothers Romance - Book 2) by Cindy Roland Anderson {Review}

Rescue a Stubborn Heart (Hudson Brothers Romance - Book 2) by Cindy Roland Anderson

285 pages, Kindle Edition
Publication May 27, 2021
Source: I received a complimentary copy. All opinions expressed are my own and were voluntarily given 

She doesn’t believe true love is real.
He thinks he’s too broken for love.
Everything changes when two stubborn hearts meet.

On the run from her ex-husband’s twisted family, Finley seeks help from Jaxon Hudson, the Navy SEAL who rescued her three years ago. Even though she only knew him for a few hours, it was long enough for her to fall in love. But Jaxon’s imminent deployment squashed any hope of a relationship, and he walked away, taking a piece of her heart with him.

Now Finley is older and wiser and not looking for love. So when Jaxon proposes a marriage of convenience and offers the protection of his name, but not his heart, Finley accepts the terms.

There’s only one problem, the spark they had three years ago never died out...placing her in danger of falling for him all over again.

   

My Review: 5 Stars

So much is wrapped up in these pages. Anderson tackles a few tough topics, such as PTSD and domestic abuse, but does it in a way that brings issues to light without feeling heavy at all. These Hudson brothers are a force to be reckoned with and I love getting their stories. LOVED!

After Jaxon rescues Finley, takes her on one date, and then deploys, survivor's guilt and trauma take over his life. When Finley needs rescuing again, they reconnect and the sparks are more flammable than ever.

Jaxon is one amazing character! Although he's strong and compassionate, he's battling demons, which makes him relatable. Finley has struggled her whole life, especially with a sense of belonging and the marriage of inconvenience that ensues from their reunion finally gives her what she craves...but can she keep it?

Anderson has a way of writing that makes me smile, swoon, and devour every single word. I loved every interaction between Jaxon and Finley and couldn't get enough of their palpable chemistry. The zings were instantaneous, yet completely believable, and the little baby, Gracie, melted my heart.

I absolutely adore these brothers--every single one--and can't wait to read every one of their stories.

Content: mild+ romance (very mild innuendo, swoony kissing, unwanted advances); mild violence (vague talk of abuse, neglect, war violence, death)

Chasing Whispers (The Honeysuckle Island Series #1) by Jennifer Youngblood {Review}

Chasing Whispers (The Honeysuckle Island Series #1) by Jennifer Youngblood

Kindle Edition, 272 pages
Published April 28, 2021
Source: I received a complimentary copy. All opinions expressed are my own and were voluntarily given

Sometimes love comes to us soft as a whisper, at the time when we least expect it …

A heartfelt story of friendship, family, forgiveness, and the determination it takes for two hearts to rebuild their lives in the midst of rumors and deception.

Effie’s new position as interior designer at the historic Oliver Hotel on Honeysuckle Island represents more than a mere job. It’s Effie’s chance to start fresh and prove that she’s worth her salt. Having grown up an only child to a single mother shrouded in sadness, Effie longs to come to terms with the hurt she still feels over her mother’s death, coupled with the jolt of reuniting with her father and six half-siblings that she didn’t even realize she had.

Working for the illustrious and temperamental Madeline Chasing won’t be easy, but it could be advantageous to have a close connection with one of the wealthiest families on the East Coast. There’s only one thing standing in the way of Effie’s success—Talon Chasing, Madeline’s oldest son and the manager of the hotel. The more Effie tries to evade him, the harder he pursues her.

Not only is Effie reluctant to get involved with Talon because of their work relationship but also because of the whispers of suspicion surrounding his ex-wife’s disappearance. The closer Effie gets to Talon, the more she starts to question his innocence.

A series of strange occurrences at the hotel make Effie fear that she might be the next to disappear.

   

My Review: 5 Stars

I was so sad to see the Romeo family come to an end and was absolutely delighted to see this new series infuse that beloved family within its pages. I love a good romantic suspense and Youngblood has perfected the craft with this one. 

Effie is out on her own with a major design client and that first meet cute was hilariously adorable! Talon is charming and lovable, but he's got mysteries enshrouding him and his family. The vibe was creepy, yet sweet; terrifying, yet romantic; chilling, yet fun. I flew through the pages and enjoyed it all. The formula was magnificent and I didn't see some of the twists and turns coming, which reminded me of a frightful roller coaster that shan't be named that always leaves me shaking in my shoes, yet wanting to go again.

This series is off to a great start and I'm eagerly awaiting more of Honeysuckle Island and it's too-close-for-comfort residents.

Content: mild+ moments of peril/fear; mild romance; mild religion

The Best-Laid Plans by Sarah M. Eden {Review}

The Best-Laid Plans by Sarah M. Eden

134 pages, ebook
First published January 1, 2021
Source: borrowed from the library

 

Newton Hughes has long dreamed of pursuing a career in law, an acceptable choice for a gentleman of status and wealth. His parents, however, disapprove of his ambition, urging him instead to take his rightful place as a gentleman of leisure—with a suitable wife of their choosing, of course.

Ellie Napper would like nothing more than for her parents to abandon their incessant efforts to marry her off to the greatest possible advantage. Her lack of matrimonial enthusiasm drives her family mad, but she refuses to feign frivolity in order to make herself more palatable to potential suitors.

When Ellie and Newton are introduced through their mutual acquaintance, Charlie Jonquil, they commiserate over their shared plight. In desperation, they hatch a plan: Ellie and Newton will feign an interest in each other—enough to convince their parents not to push them toward unwanted matches but not enough to cause whispers or expectations. Their plot quickly spirals out of control, but the greatest complication is the one they didn’t see coming: their plan never included falling in love.

   

My Review: 5 Stars

What a teaser! I loved the mash-up of the Lancasters and the Jonquils and when Newton and Ellie were thrown into the mix of an entertaining way to avoid marriage, I was hooked. Eden always writes delightfully charming characters and Artemis and her Huntresses opened up all kinds of possibilities for future stories.

Ellie is mistreated by those who should love her best and I was so happy when Artemis took Ellie under her wing. Newton is such a wonderfully kind gentleman and the plan they came up with was full of thrills and swoon, especially as this group became tight-knit. These characters are endearing.

You'd better believe I'm counting down the days to the match of a lifetime and it all sparked with this adorable novella!

Content: mild romance; mild mistreatment

Half Hitch (Lost Creek Rodeo #5) by Sophia Summers, Heather B. Moore, and Rebecca Connolly {Review}

Half Hitch (Lost Creek Rodeo #5) by Sophia Summers, Heather B. Moore, and Rebecca Connolly

Kindle Edition, 250 pages
Published May 11, 2021

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

A Wyoming cowboy surprised by love meets a young widowed Rodeo star who isn’t ready to open her heart.

Broken Hearts ranch is working its magic again with young Hazel Winters, still paralyzed by grief at the loss of her husband. She finds hope and healing with Kellie Prosper and the other women at the ranch, but more than that, she finds an opportunity for new love. But is she well enough or brave enough to accept it?

Eric Davis is happy to return to Lost Creek with his best friends in The Original Six to support the Christmas in July Rodeo the town hosts every year. He expects to rope some calves, help out with chores at the ranch, and celebrate Christmas in the Texas heat. What he doesn’t expect is to fall in love with one of the guests at The Broken Hearts Ranch.

Read book five in the Lost Creek Rodeo series to find out if Eric and Hazel can find the love they’re both craving.

   

My Review: 5 Stars

The Broken Ranch and Original Six rodeo studs have my whole heart! Just like his buddies, Eric is a charming, sweet, down-to-earth cowboy who captured my heart with his gentlemanly ways. I was delighted by his first meeting with Hazel, who caught me off guard probably as much as she did Eric. Completely unexpected, Hazel is a force to be reckoned with and I adored her spitfire personality. 

It's amazing to me that each story has a woman who is staying at this therapy ranch and a man who is a rodeo cowboy, yet they're all so different. Similar ingredients but a different recipe yields delightfully charming results and I was a sucker for this one. 

I especially loved the descriptions of the wide open skies and ranch work. Times feel simpler and are rejuvenating to the soul. Even the virtual escape was refreshing. I loved it and my heart craved the sweet romance that was offered.

Content: mild romance

Forget Me Not (The Gents #1) by Sarah M. Eden {Review}

Forget Me Not (The Gents #1) by Sarah M. Eden

256 pages, Paperback

First published September 7, 2020

Source: Borrowed from the library

 

 

Nottinghamshire, 1785.

Julia Cummings has long been acquainted with loss—her mother, her brother, her sister, her friend, all gone too soon. But the loss that pushed her grief to the limit as a young girl was that of her best friend, Lucas Jonquil, who abandoned her without looking back. Now, eight years later, Lucas has returned to Lampton Park, and Julia has steeled herself—she will never forgive the man who broke her heart.

After losing too many of his friends and family to early deaths, Lucas vowed to live life to the fullest. And after traversing the world, he has returned from his adventures to find his family and home as he left them—except for Julia. The little girl he left behind has blossomed into a captivating lady, a lady who makes it clear she despises him. With little hope of reconciliation, the former friends are blindsided when their parents make a shocking announcement. Lucas and Julia have been betrothed without their knowledge and are to marry immediately. Now Lucas must rely on the help of his closest friends to win the heart of a lady who loathes him—a lady he’s coming to love more deeply every day.

   

My Review: 5 Stars

This. This is exactly the type of story I've come to expect from Sarah Eden and I loved every single page. There's nothing I adore more than discovering a beautiful love story. Eden's Jonquil series is one of my favorites and I completely enjoyed reading about how their parents came to fall in love. True to her style, this author delivers a story that pierced my heart in all the ways.

Lucas is the type of man who is swoon worthy one minute and a jerk the next, thanks to his oblivion. While I couldn't help but to fall for his kindness, streaked with mischievousness, he was frustratingly clueless at times. Watching him determine what was important to him and wholeheartedly go after it was satisfying. Julia broke my heart. After so much loss, she's the shell of the fun-loving girl she once was and a surprise marriage was almost her undoing. This girl is so resilient and I loved watching her bloom, but that wedding day had me laughing so hard.

Not only are Lucas and Julia likable characters, but "the gents" completely won me over. Anyone would do well in life to have the camaraderie these friends share. I loved the way they rallied around Julia and razzed Lucas. The whole package of elements and emotions this book delivered was enchanting. I cannot wait to read the rest of the series!

Content: mild romance; talk of death

The Seat Filler by Sariah Wilson {Review}

The Seat Filler by Sariah Wilson

Kindle Edition

Expected publication: April 27th 2021
Source: I received a complimentary copy. All opinions expressed are my own and were voluntarily given

The movie star and the dog groomer are one kiss away from the perfect love story. That’s the hiccup in a warm and witty romance by the bestselling author of Room-maid.

The meet-cute award goes to dog groomer Juliet Nolan. It’s one of Hollywood’s biggest nights when she volunteers as a seat filler and winds up next to movie heartthrob Noah freaking Douglas. Tongue tied and toes curling in her pink Converse, she pretends that she doesn’t have a clue who he is. It’s the only way to keep from swooning.

She’s pretty and unpretentious, loves his dog, and is not a worshipping fan. No way Noah’s giving up on her, even if his affectionate pursuit comes with a bump: Juliet has a pathological fear of kissing and the disappointments that follow. What odds does romance have without that momentous, stupendous, once-in-a-lifetime first smooch? Patient, empathetic, and carrying personal burdens of his own, Noah suggests a remedy: they rehearse.

The lessons begin. The guards come down. But there’s another hitch they weren’t betting on. As for that cue-the-orchestra-and-roll-credits happy ending? It might take more than practice to make it perfect.

 

  

 

 

My Review: 5 Stars

 

And the award goes to... Sariah Wilson... for writing one of the cutest, swooniest books ever! The story of an every-day normal girl with believable issues and an intriguing, sweet, and handsome-in-his-own-right actor captured my interest and hooked me from the very first page. I couldn't get enough.

 

I love how witty and true to herself Juliet is and the banter and attraction between Juliet and Noah completely swept me away. The whole cast of characters is perfect for this story and meshed together in an amazing way that drew me right in and didn't let me go--I think this book must be laced with something addictive because I'm feeling a book hangover right about now.

 

This is hands-down one of the swooniest romances I've ever read. The connection between Noah and Juliet, and the super dreamy kisses, kept me up way too late and left me floating for a long time afterward. The Seat Filler is definitely a book that deserves to be re-read and I can't wait to enjoy it all over again.

 

Content: mild+ romance (swoony kissing, light innuendo) 

Emma by Jane Austen {Review}

Emma by Jane Austen

Audiobook, Downloadable audio file

Published 2006 by Blackstone Audio Books (first published December 23rd 1815)  

Source: Borrowed from the library's Libby App 

“Emma Woodhouse, handsome, clever, and rich, with a comfortable home and happy disposition, seemed to unite some of the best blessings of existence; and had lived nearly twenty-one years in the world with little to distress or vex her.” That is, until she tries her hand at matchmaking. The results are both disappointingly unsuccessful and hilarious as Emma misreads the cues, makes some false assumptions, and unintentionally offers less than helpful advice. Fortunately, it all turns out all right in the end in this romantic comedy of manners.

 

   

 

My Review: 5 Stars

 

Delightful. Purely, utterly, charmingly delightful! I saw this movie years ago and know of the story, but I've never actually read (or listened to) the book, which is actually shocking, considering how much I love Jane Austen. I adored Emma and her precocious, busybody personality. I enjoyed Emma's friendships and relationships, and I loved Mr. Knightly.

 

Emma is so clueless--vain, wealthy, and completely self-absorbed. When she decides she's good at matchmaking, the trouble begins and although there wasn't a lot to this plot, it was fascinating, humorous, and highly entertaining. I loved all the characters, even those who annoyed me. This was such a treat to listen to and kept me smiling.

Content: mild romance

River's Song (Harvest Ranch Romance #12) by Stephanie Fowers {Review}

River's Song (Harvest Ranch Romance #12) by Stephanie Fowers

ebook, 212 pages

Publication: April 12th 2021  

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

 

 

A country singer rediscovers his passion for music when he meets a spunky small town girl who lives her life to the fullest. Too bad she's his best friend's ex.

Now he'd better forget his racing pulse so he can get a photograph back from her that could ruin his career.

The trouble is that spending time with her feels like a good old fashioned love song, and he can't get that stupid tune out of his head... or out of his heart.

  

My Review: 5 Stars

This series set in a small town in Virginia has firmly planted itself deep in my heart and soul. I loved this story about country singer, River, and photographer, Liv. With past relationship complications and past mistakes haunting their instant attraction, River and Liv have to dig deep to discover what matters and what's worth fighting for.  

I love the way the characters of this town watch out for one another and the way the magic of romance sprinkles around like floating cherry or apple blossoms. Although River and Liv have some complications, I adored them and their story. The connections between other books in the series brought a feeling of familiarity, but most of all, I loved the music, the inspiration, and the hope. Fowers breathes life into this book, allowing the reader to escape into this charming town for a time. 

Learning about history or facts about different things is always more enjoyable to me when they're embedded in fiction. It was fascinating to learn about film development, but that's not all that developed through the lens of a camera. Such an enjoyable addition to this series!

Content: mild romance; vague talk of drinking, drugs, women; mild religion 

All That Really Matters by Nicole Deese {Review}

All That Really Matters by Nicole Deese

Paperback, 416 pages

Publication: April 6th 2021 by Bethany House Publishers 

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

Molly McKenzie's bright personality and on-trend fashion and beauty advice have earned her an impressive social media following, as well as a big paycheck each month. When her manager-turned-boyfriend says she has an audition to appear as a host on a makeover show that nominates underprivileged youth, her dream of further fame seems to be coming true. There's just one catch: she has little experience interacting with people in need.

When her manager-boyfriend convinces her to partner with a local organization, she begins volunteering with a summer youth program. The program's director, Silas Whittaker, challenges her at every turn, but she swiftly grows more attached to the kids--and him--every day.

As Molly experiences an acceptance unlike anything she's known, she wrestles with the lies she's been believing about herself for years. She thought she knew what mattered most in life, but maybe she's had it wrong this whole time, and there's more to being truly seen than what she's built her entire life on.

 

  

 

My Review: 5 Stars

 

What really matters in life? Sometimes it's hard to recognize. Although I have no desire to become one, social media influencers are very intriguing to me. Nicole Deese delivers an amazingly heartfelt and authentic story, and it caught me off guard. I was expecting superficial, and maybe that's how Molly's service journey started, but her genuine and vivid persona, grit, and perfected online presence was a magnet for everyone who came in contact with her and absolutely perfect for this book.

 

Molly is the type of character that you can't help but adore and idolize and want to be like. Although she appears to be very successful, I love that there's room for her to grow and learn more about herself. I love how she engages with the youth program and discovers it's more than a stepping stone for her next career move. And can we talk about Silas? What a perfect contrast! That stoic man is compassionate, dukely, and charismatic.

 

I just loved everything about this book. The whole cast of characters felt alive and multi-dimensional. They were real and flawed, yet extremely likable and I couldn't get enough. I loved the Pacific Northwest setting, which lent an interesting vibe that set my heart ablaze once a romance sparked. 

 

Deese does a phenomenal job of bringing the reader into the story. The strings of hope, forgiveness, and love were written amazingly well, creating a beautiful tapestry that I just wanted to frame and keep in my forever.  

Content: mild romance (kissing, vague mention of intimacy); mild+ religion; mild+ talk of past situations (drugs, death, attacks, etc)

Until Vienna (Romance on the Orient Express #3) by Heather B. Moore {Review}

Until Vienna (Romance on the Orient Express #3) by Heather B. Moore

Kindle Edition, 168 pages

Publication: April 1st 2021 

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

 

 

 

Georgina Ballard has been disappointed in love more than a few times, a fact that she is uncomfortably aware of amid her sister’s wedding preparations. When her elderly aunt Rowena bids Gigi to accompany her on an art tour across Europe, Gigi hesitates but eventually resigns herself to the train journey alongside a group of aged art connoisseurs, if only to mollify her aunt.

Once aboard the Orient Express, Gigi is pleased to discover that not everyone on the tour is in their twilight years: Clyde Haskins, an energetic young art professor from the University of London, will serve as the group’s tour guide. Clyde is equally intrigued that a young lady has joined the tour, and Aunt Rowena and her friends immediately set out to play matchmaker. Clyde and Gigi both find humor in Aunt Rowena’s antics despite knowing that each is determined to keep their heart carefully guarded. Yet, the enchantment of their European exploration weaves an undeniable spell between them. When their journey ends, can their holiday love story endure the obstacles of real life?

 

   

 

My Review: 5 Stars

 

I adore this series! The Orient Express is so fascinating and mysterious. I mean, it's just a train, but it's so much more, especially with the common thread of the peculiar foreign character--Nicholas.  

 

Although the events and stops along the way were intriguing, it was the characters that completely won me over. Gigi is accompanying her aunt and friends on the journey and the professor leading the excursions is very likable. The older ladies had me laughing with their busybody antics and matchmaking. Oh, the matchmaking was such a fun element! Gigi and Clyde had a wonderful friendship that hinted at something more and had me cheering them on and swooning. I even loved the women close to Gigi who were left back home. Gigi had a very strong support system and adapted well to them all nosing into her business, as they all had her best interests at heart.

 

Moore does a brilliant job of bringing this time period and these delightful characters to life. I nestled right into this story and felt like I lived it along with them. Charming and sweet, this is a story that has stayed in my thoughts for days.

 

Content: mild romance 

The Temporary Roomie by Sarah Adams {Review}

The Temporary Roomie (It Happened in Nashville #2) by Sarah Adams

Kindle Edition

Expected publication: April 1st 2021 

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

 

 

 

What happens when you have to play nice with your greatest enemy? Revenge.

Drew Marshall may have let me move into his spare bedroom while my house is being renovated, but don’t think for one second his kindness comes without strings. Big, ugly, fake relationship strings.

That’s okay, though, Dr. Andrew. I’ll agree to your terms, move into your house, and act like
your girlfriend when the big day comes; but I also plan to make your life miserable—make you pay for what you did to me.

I may not be good at forgiving or forgetting, but I’m excellent at getting even.

Get ready to laugh until you cry with this sizzling, hilarious, closed-door romantic comedy!

 

  

 

 

My Review: 5 Stars

 

Do you ever wish you could be like someone else? I'm an introvert who always thinks of the perfect comeback hours, or even days, after I need one. Jessie is tough, feisty, independent, and has a rapid wit overflowing with sarcasm. Can I be her? Or could some of her cleverness rub off on me? She's quick on her feet and those comebacks fall from her mouth before she can even finish thinking of them. This raw talent is exactly what pits her against her best friend's brother, Drew. The banter those two had would rival any professional tennis match, with the zingers flying back and forth faster than my dog can snatch a spoonful of peanut butter. But an underlying current of attraction emerges in the middle of the battlefield, which only intensifies the emotions and raises the stakes.  

 

When pregnant Jessie needs a place to stay, Drew's mostly empty house is the perfect solution, but once again, it's an all-out war of unbelievable pranks that had me gasping, laughing, and even swooning. They've each met their match and it's game on.

 

Adams has an incredible talent of creating a story with layers. On the surface, the reader sees the humor, but as the coatings are stripped away, a raw vulnerability is discovered, treating the reader to a gamut of emotions, with love and amusement prevailing.

 

I've never met a Sarah Adams book I haven't not only devoured, but absolutely enjoyed on every level. The pregnant romance trope can be tricky to navigate, but Adams does it brilliantly! Kudos to her for another amazing, swoony story!

 

Content: mild+ romance (swoony, kissing, some innuendo, implied intimacy); mild+ language

While You Were Speaking (Harvest Ranch Romance Book 10) by Maria Hoagland {Review}

While You Were Speaking (Harvest Ranch Romance Book 10) by Maria Hoagland

ebook, 215 pages

Publication: March 29th 2021 by Red Leaves Press 

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

 

 

 

He wasn’t supposed to fall in love with his brother’s fiancée.

She wasn’t supposed to fall in love at all. ♥ ♥

Lucy Morrowitz has two dreams. First, to reopen the Starlight Drive-In Theater left to her by her parents. And second, to marry her celebrity crush—renowned motivational speaker Carter Hughes. Neither goal is remotely attainable, and she’s fine with that—they’d never been more than a lark—until her co-worker, WHHR’s morning drive DJ Crew Keller, convinces the Harvest Ranch community to rally around Lucy in saving the small-town landmark. Then, when Carter Hughes accepts her Hail Mary of an invitation to give the kickoff speech at the Harvest Ranch spring cleanup, suddenly, neither of her dreams feels quite as far out of reach.

Zachary Hughes, on the other hand, has never been much of a dreamer. He doesn’t have glamorous a job as his brother, but it’s steady and reliable, even if he doesn’t love it. He’s not as well-known, either, but he’s never been one to seek attention. In fact, there’s nothing Carter has that Zach envies—until he meets his fiancée. Because of her, Zach finds himself reaching for more: A job he looks forward to every day, rather than settling for the family business. A town where he’s known, and not just as Carter’s little brother. And the perfect person to spend his life with—someone who laughs with him, challenges him, accepts him, loves him. Someone like Lucy.

And yet, are these the kind of dreams that will bring either one of them happiness? Perhaps the motivational speakers are right—Lucy and Zach can reach your dreams. They just have to make sure they’re reaching for the right ones.

♥ ♥ Enjoy this fresh take on a classic '80s rom-com. A small-town, sweet forbidden romance that has you dreaming of an evening spent at the drive-in with your sweetheart. ♥ ♥

 

   

My Review: 5 Stars 

 

Harvest Ranch strikes again! I love this charming town and I love meeting more of its citizens. Lucy is trying to get the old drive-in movie theater up and running again and when Zach and his family descend upon the town to support his brother, Carter, who is a big-time motivational speaker helping with an event, all the sparks break loose.

 

The mid-90s film that this story pays tribute to was one of my favorites and I loved the modern take with the small town twist. There were a few scenes that were very reminiscent of the movie and had me smiling and laughing as they played out in my mind. Hoagland does a great job of incorporating the familiar with the original, and the events tied in nicely with the rest of the series, showing a different angle to the big events. 

 

I loved Lucy and Zach! From their interesting occupations to their sweet interactions to the undeniable chemistry, they slipped right into my heart. Obviously, the supporting cast of characters was as zany and quirky as I hoped they would be and I just couldn't get enough. 

 

This was another great addition to the Harvest Ranch series. Now...would someone grab me a Dr. Pepper and surprise me with a mix-in?

 

Content: mild romance 

It's Just Business (The Wedding Business #2) by Summer Dowell {Review}

It's Just Business (The Wedding Business #2) by Summer Dowell

Kindle Edition

Publication: March 25th 2021 

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

I despise him. I despise everything about this business-stealing man who has eyes the color of hot chocolate and a perfectly sun-kissed tan I can’t stop thinking about...Like I said, despise.

Having grown up with a mom who had more boyfriends than a flower has petals, I have zero fairy tale aspirations of true love. It doesn't exist. But when a dreamy man with the perfect smile and a propensity for volunteering keeps running into me, I start to think maybe I was wrong all along.

That is until I realize he's the scumbag that stole my flower shop right out from under me.

I know I should be the bigger person. Move on. But somehow, revenge seems the only answer. Pity, revenge seems to be showing me that Austin might actually be a good person instead of the villain I painted him to be.

In the end, it's all just business though, isn't it?”

A laugh-out-loud, enemies to lovers romance that is full of all the sarcasm and swoons!

 

 

 

My Review: 5 Stars

 

Have you ever been mortally embarrassed for a fictional character? Yeah, that was me while reading this story. Haley and Austin have a magnetic first meet and the consequential random run-ins following only led to lots of pranks, swoon, and blushing. 

 

Haley is a feisty and determined wedding florist and Austin is an aspiring restaurateur, and what starts as a subtle battle for a business location ends up as an over-the-top payback--all in the name of business. The pranks become overblown and out of control, but it's sometimes it's hard to stop the ball once it starts rolling. I couldn't believe how much effort and creativity went into this devious plan, and I was laughing and cringing throughout. 

 

This author does a fantastic job of creating likable characters that find themselves in both heartfelt and humorous situations. I wanted to put the brakes on the antics so many times, but then they'd give way to the undeniable attraction and I'd just swoon the pages away. I loved it all and the epilogue was the bonus that dreams are made of.

Content: mild romance

If It's Perfect (The Wedding Business Book 1) by Summer Dowell {Review}

If It's Perfect (The Wedding Business Book 1) by Summer Dowell

Kindle Edition, 192 pages

Published October 22nd 2020
Source: Kindle Unlimited

One thing I learned this week: DO NOT flirt while at a client’s wedding. (especially with anyone in a tux)

Success-driven Hope Fletcher has some lofty goals for her life. But is it really too much to want a thriving cake design business by age 29? Marry a perfect (emphasis on the perfect) man by age 30? Then have the kids, dog, and house in suburbia by age 34? If you fail to plan, you plan to fail.

Dean. Wonderful, dreamy Dean who loves kids (and will eventually grow to love dogs) steps into Hope's world. He's the exact type of man she's been looking for and she starts falling. Hard.

But will Hope's perfect image of Dean crumble when she finds out about his past?

A clean, loud-out-loud romantic comedy that's full of sarcasm and swoons!

 

  

My Review: 5 Stars

If you're looking for something as light and fun as buttercream frosting, this is the book for you! Hope is a perfectionist, with rigid goals and looking for the perfect man. The meet cute with Dean was humorous and sweet, and what follows was a deliciously delightful concoction of pure RomCom fun. 

This author has a wonderful sense of humor that flows right through to the characters and the entertaining situations they found themselves in. As Hope is a cake decorator, wedded bliss and all its trappings (bridezillas and all) decorated the pages like fondant flowers. Not only did this story leave me drooling for cake, but I was also in love with the budding romance and was ready to fight Hope for perfectly imperfect Dean.

In a true RomCom fashion, this book delivered snark, witty banter that sizzled, drama, secrets, humor, romance, and more, and I devoured it about as fast as I would a five tiered, multi-flavored wedding cake. This one was a winner in my book!

Content: mild romance