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) 

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)

Her Athlete's Wedding Secret by Cindy Ray Hale {Review}

Her Athlete's Wedding Secret (A Maple Creek Brides Sweet Romance) by Cindy Ray Hale

Kindle Edition, 160 pages

Publication: January 30th 2021 

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

Can a fake marriage save their careers? Or will their feelings turn everything real?

Small Town newspaper reporter, Tessa Randall, dreams of scoring a job with a big city newspaper. An interview with Benson Patrick, quarterback for the New York Giants, might be the opportunity she’s been looking for. When he comes home to Maple Creek for their mutual friends’ wedding, Tessa hopes it’s the perfect chance to interview him. Only Benson isn’t being as cooperative as she’d wanted, and before she knows it, he’s proposing to her. A marriage, even a fake one, might be the edge she needs to land her dream job.

New York Giants quarterback Benson Patrick has never backed down from a dare. When the police catch him doing donuts in Central Park with his beloved truck, Ol’ Bessie, he’s afraid his career is over. After being put on suspension, his coach tells him to settle down and get married or get kicked off the team. When he goes to his buddy’s wedding at his hometown, the beautiful Tessa Randall catches his eye. If he can convince her to marry him, she might be the solution to all his problems. As long as their feelings don’t get involved.

If you enjoy fake marriages, sports romance, and small town sweet romance, then you'll love this book.

 

   

 

My Review: 4 Stars

 

Hale has found her stride with this Maple Creek series. The combination of small town shenanigans and quirky characters makes this series a hit. But when a fake marriage with mutual benefits between former high school classmates, a pro athlete and a newspaper reporter, and lots of swoon in a tropical location is thrown into the mix, well...it encompasses almost everything that I love about a sweet story.

Benson and Tessa aren't a match on paper per say, but they're both willing to give this fake marriage a shot to boost both of their careers, and it proves hard to hold their feelings close to their hearts. Honestly at first, Benson was kind of a selfish jerk, but when life happens, he became much more likable. Tessa is the sweetest--almost too sweet for her own good, as she's had a hard life with a mentally ill mother. Together, they are a very complementary opposites attract concoction. 

Jetting off on a romantic Caribbean honeymoon was just what I needed and watching their lives mash together was a treat. I'm already looking forward to more Maple Creek.

Content: mild romance

Second Chance Kisses by Cindy Roland Anderson {Review}

Second Chance Kisses by Cindy Roland Anderson

Kindle Edition

Published December 21st 2020 

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

 

 

 

She wants nothing to do with him.
He wants a second chance.

When the jerk playing Sir Lancelot in a TV series is fired, Madison Taylor is relieved the show isn’t canceled. But when she discovers his replacement is British heart-throb Caleb Matthews, she’s tempted to quit her job. Not only is Caleb on the list of Britain’s hottest male actors…he’s also Madison’s former fiancé. She regrets ever falling in love and is determined not to let it happen again. But her foolish heart isn’t listening…putting her in danger of falling for him all over again.

Note: This book originally appears as Forgotten Kisses, a short story in the Under the Mistletoe Collection. Second Chance Kisses has been extensively re-written with added content that tells the rest of Madison and Caleb’s story! You’ll love the witty dialogue and added scenes, including a bonus epilogue!

 

 

  

 

My Review: 5 Stars

 

I'm a sucker for a sweet celebrity romance and this book delivers a good one. Madison and Caleb had a chance years ago at the start of his fame, but doubts and insecurities got in the way. Back again and determined to win her over, Caleb's charm and wit won me over and I was cheering him on in his efforts. 

 

But honestly, for me personally, I would completely identify with Madison's concerns and feelings, as they would mirror each other. It would be hard to be in a relationship with a Hollywood heartthrob and be secure enough in our relationship to never question fans, co-stars, or media's attempts at creating a romance. 

Anderson has a way of writing that evokes real emotion and never fails to make me smile. I loved the added content and thought a better developed story resulted, leaving me utterly satisfied.

Content: mild romance (kissing, slight innuendo)

Her Country Christmas Date by Ranee S. Clark {Review}

Her Country Christmas Date by Ranee S. Clark

Kindle Edition, 98 pages

Published December 1st 2019 by Sweetly Us 

Source: Kindle Freebie

 

    

 

Is ten days, twelve dates, and a little Christmas magic enough for happily ever after?

Dru North has far more substance than the party-boy reputation given to him by the media, which is why a quiet Christmas in Little is just what he needs. From the moment he meets Amber Miller, who’s staying across the hall, sparks fly, and a magical Christmas party leads to an impulsive kiss.

While Dru is eager to get to know Amber during the quiet vacation, she’s wary of his reputation and his riches. She challenges him to take her on twelve dates before she’ll consider their relationship anything more than a holiday fling—a feat given the fact that she’s only in town for ten days.

Amidst the big family holiday Dru has always dreamed of having, Amber finds herself trusting with every “date” that Dru isn’t the bad-boy she thought him to be. But his insistence that this can be more than a holiday fling has Amber worried about the future. Dru’s a famous country star with money to burn, and she’s just a teacher. Are their worlds too far apart for a happily ever after when the Christmas magic is over?

 

My Review: 4 Stars

 

Christmas magic is definitely in the air when country star, Dru, falls hard and fast for Amber, a girl with major trust issues. I get that people have challenges to overcome, but when a guy like Dru lands in your lap, I want those issues to suddenly disappear--just give the guy a chance! This is a guy who bends over backwards to win her over, but she's a hard sell. Amber, I'll take him if you don't want him, hah. I really wanted her to get over herself and let him in.

 

There's something so cozy and warm about a small town romance, especially set during the holiday season. I love how each date unwraps another layer to Dru's character and how he charms the reader, along with Amber. Obviously, Dru is my favorite and I want him to find true love and happiness. 

 

The characters and this setting bundled my heart right up, tight and snug. This is a fun little story for the Christmas season.

 

Content: mild romance 

Only Her Amnesiac Fake Fiance (Mystical Lake Resort #6) by Cami Checketts {Review}

  

Only Her Amnesiac Fake Fiance (Mystical Lake Resort #6) by Cami Checketts

Kindle Edition, 164 pages

Published October 2020 

Source: Kindle Unlimited

 

   

 

A famous actor with amnesia; his feisty executive assistant who will protect him at all costs.

Bennett Pike has loved one woman his entire life. Unfortunately she’s his agent, manager, and best friend who pushes him to date and pose with a different woman each night.

Sariah Bohme has been blackmailed since she was eighteen. If she keeps paying her stepdad each month and proves that she’s not in love with Bennett she can keep him safe.

When Bennett gets knocked out with a tire iron and wakes up with amnesia will it be their chance to finally fall in love or will the monster waiting in the shadows destroy them both?

 

My Review: 4 Stars

 

I love a good love story that packs a punch. Bennett and Sariah have an undeniable chemistry that exudes swoon, but there are secrets that keep them as best friends. I loved the relationship, both working and personal, that they shared. But...Checketts never disappoints in adding an element of danger and suspense that kept me riveted to this adorable story.

 

I can't imagine having amnesia and Bennett handles his case well, acting as charming and flirtatious as ever, which made their fake engagement seem real. That whole announcement scene was so cute, but when the perilous situation escalated, I was on the edge of my seat.   

 

I love the formula in this story, with great characters, a beautiful setting, plenty of swoon, and a snippet of conflict and danger, but I wanted a more. I guess I wanted a little more development because I wasn't ready for it to end yet. This is the perfect morsel for an afternoon of reading.

 

Content: mild romance; mild elements of danger/violence/suspense 

Her Movie Star's Secret Plan {Maple Creek Brides #2) by Cindy Ray Hale

  

Her Movie Star's Secret Plan (Maple Creek Brides Sweet Romance #2) by Cindy Ray Hale

Kindle Edition

Publication: October 30th 2020 

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

 

  

 

He has enough charm for Hollywood, but she’s not impressed. Can he win this baker’s heart?

Bakery owner Alexis Remington has had a crush on Owen Hadley since before he was a world-famous actor. When she finds out he’s going to be the best man in the wedding where she’s the maid of honor, she feels incredibly nervous. But her anxiety quickly turns to anger when she realizes her old crush is cutting into her bakery’s much-needed revenue with the competition he’s created by opening a restaurant with a pastry chef.

When movie star Owen Hadley returns to Maple Creek to be in his best friend’s high-profile celebrity wedding, he decides it time to fulfill his lifelong dream of opening a restaurant. And where better than in his hometown? What he wasn’t counting on was the beautiful maid of honor blaming him for her bakery’s demise. When he realizes he can’t charm himself out of this situation, he learns that the only way to thaw her heart is to take the mask off. But is it too late?

If you enjoy sweet romance set in a small town with swoony moments, then you’ll love this book!

My Review: 4 Stars

I love Maple Creek and I'm enjoying getting to know the different characters better through their individual stories. Alexis and Owen have known each other forever, but since he's become a big shot actor, there hasn't been much interaction. I love how the starstruck wonder wore off quickly as Alexis realized that deep down, Owen is still Owen. I also enjoyed the common goal these two shared with their dreams of running food-related businesses. And honestly, I was quite hungry after reading about a lot of their creations and offerings.

I always wanted a protective older brother and loved the way Chase was so over-the-top with his baby sister and best friend. Owen is the sweetest man alive and Alexis drove me batty with her waffling between allowing herself to feel and her determination to doom the relationship. There wasn't a lot of compromise and the tug-of-war between "I love you" and "I hate you" was strong, but the attraction was undeniable and ultimately, this sweet story won a well-deserved spot in my heart.

Content: mild romance

Her Rock Star's Dark Secret by Cindy Ray Hale {Review}

 

Her Rock Star's Dark Secret (A Maple Creek Brides Sweet Romance) by Cindy Ray Hale

Kindle Edition

Publication: September 28th 2020 

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

  

Lauren Parker is a salon owner and a single mom. She works hard to get by, but her business is still on the brink of collapse. When her best friend sets her up on a blind date with her celebrity brother, Lauren is not amused. She’s not interested in dating and definitely not interested in her old enemy from high school.

Chase Remington, lead singer of a mega-famous band returns to his hometown of Maple Creek, Virginia for his ten-year high school reunion. He was a known bad boy back in his school days and has since reformed. Only he’s still holding onto a dark secret from his past in Maple Creek and he can’t let go of it. Not even to heal.

Chase volunteers to join Lauren’s committee to plan a memorial service for a former classmate, and they discover that maybe they have more in common than they first assumed. As Chase grows closer to Lauren, his secret gets dangerously close to becoming exposed.

If you enjoy sweet romance set in a small town with swoony moments, then you’ll love this book!

 

My Review: 5 Stars

 

I'm completely charmed by the small town of Maple Creek. In fact, it's reminiscent of the place I grew up, in some ways, and that led to a very sweet and nostalgic feeling while reading it.

 

Lauren and Chase didn't get along at all in high school and are now reunited for their 10 year high school reunion, which will also be used to commemorate a classmate who died shortly before their graduation. Dealing with delicate topics, such as bullying and suicide, can be different to pull of, but I felt that Hale did a great job of incorporating them into the story by placing importance on the awareness of such things, but not allowing them to cast a dark and depressive shadow over the book.

 

Although this story felt a bit like insta-love, these characters share a past and a background, which made it very believable for me. As Lauren and Chase worked together on a project, the layers of hatred pulled away and I was hooked. I couldn't get enough of the burgeoning romance! Just as with any great story, they each had issues stemming from their pasts to work through and I loved watching them progress through their journeys of restitution while allowing love in. A celebrity and normal person trope is one I adore and I loved how the author mashed them together. 

 

This is one of my newest favorites by this author and I can't wait to travel back to Maple Creek and see what's next.

 

Content: mild romance; talk of suicide and bullying 

Stolen Kisses From a Rock Star by Judy Corry {Review}

 Stolen Kisses From a Rock Star by Judy Corry

Paperback, 154 pages

Published September 13th 2020 

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

 

When I met my favorite rock star backstage at his concert, I never expected to leave with a kiss.

I also didn't expect the man behind the mask to remind me of my neighbor, Landon Holloway--the guy I haven't seen since I rebound made-out with him two months ago.

Is the similarity between the two men just a coincidence? Or is there something more to the boy next door than meets the eye?

This novella was previously published in the Sweet Kisses Limited Edition Sweet Romance Box Set.

 

      

 

 

My Review: 5 Stars

 

I love a story with depth just as much as I love a fluffy book chock-full of sweet romance. It's all about balance, people! This story delivers a super sweet romance between Maya, her childhood best friend/next door neighbor Landon, and an ultra famous masked singer/celebrity crush, Incognito. 

 

It was fun to escape into this story and watch Maya battle with herself on who to choose. The friendship between Maya and Landon was amazing, even though they had a rebound make out session a few months prior. Landon is one sweet and caring man and if she doesn't want him, I'll take him, hah! My favorite thing was his encouragement. But...who hasn't had a celebrity crush? It was so much fun to put myself in Maya's shoes for a few hours and live vicariously through her experiences and excitement.

 

This whole thing, from start to finish, was pure delight!

 

Content: mild romance

One Big Mistake (Romeo Family Romance Book 5) by Jennifer Youngblood {Review}

One Big Mistake (Romeo Family Romance Book 5) by Jennifer Youngblood

Kindle Edition

Published July 22nd 2020 

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

 

    

 

The Romeo Family Romance Series continues with Ramsey Romeo’s story ...

A former Navy SEAL, the woman he loves, and the one big mistake that threatens to destroy everything.

 

My Review: 4 Stars

 

I love the Romeo family and it was fun to read about Ramsey. I love how the story started out with a bang, full of suspense and intrigue, but Hartley, the love interest, wasn't my most favorite character. She's harsh, blunt, tough, and kind of rubbed me wrong, as she's so opposite from me. There doesn't seem to be much softness to her and I wondered what these brothers saw in her, but of course, as the book progressed and her backstory unfolded, I became more tolerant towards her and accepted her into the clan. 

 

The end pieces of this book were what really glued this story together, as the middle was a tad bit muddy, but I was slightly on edge, waiting for the ball to drop and the climax of the plot to appear, and it was worth every minute. This author does a great job of engaging the reader with the gripping suspense.

 

Content: mild romance; mild moments of violence/danger/death 

How to Not Fall for the Wrong Guy by Meg Easton {Review}

How to Not Fall for the Wrong Guy by Meg Easton

Kindle Edition, 216 pages

Published July 14th 2020 by Mountain Heights Publishing 

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

 

    

 

When their jobs collide and their personalities clash, falling in love isn’t expected.

Bex Stirling knows what she wants, how she wants it, and definitely isn’t afraid to go get it. Her bold personality is how she expanded her YouTube audience to over two million subscribers. If she were to fall in love, it’d have to be with the right guy—someone who is easy-going, chill, and up for anything.

So, basically, everything that Roman Powell is not.

Roman is every bit as strong-willed and driven as Bex is. With him at the helm of his company, he grew it enough to earn him a spot on the cover of Business Success magazine’s “Top 10 Young (and Single) CEOs” edition. But he isn’t stoked about the unwanted attention on his personal life.

Between Bex’s viewers begging her to interview the drool-worthy CEO and Roman’s staff being convinced that Bex has an audience that’s perfect for their new app, Bex and Roman agree to work closely for a six-part interview. Unfortunately, they’ve met before, and they know enough about each other that neither is thrilled about working together.

Despite her viewers’ very vocal support of the two of them dating, Bex is still convinced she’ll have no problem at all not falling for the wrong guy.

 

My Review: 5 Stars

 

In today's world, who doesn't dream of being a YouTube sensation? Bex's vivid personality has landed her smack in the middle of fame and fortune and I love her gregarious and classy personality. Sometimes I wish I was more like that... Roman is her direct opposite, yet they share a passion for what they do and I love how that connects them--in multiple ways.

 

Catching glimpses of the inn-mates was an added bonus and I adore the friendship these girls share, but my heart and full attention was captured by the four interviews (and resulting relationship) between Bex and Roman, with the ignitable, swoony chemistry that oozed off the pages. I just couldn't get enough and I melted faster than a Popsicle on the 4th of July.

 

I loved the way this relationship progressed, both in public and in private, with these solid characters and charming small town. The plot is relevant and fun, and I'm impatiently waiting for more from this adorable series. 

 

Content: mild romance

The Billionaire Bachelor by Judy Corry {Review}

The Billionaire Bachelor by Judy Corry

Kindle Edition, 300 pages

Published February 2020 by Amazon Digital Services

    

His best friend’s sister was off limits. But some rules are meant to be broken.

Billionaire Drew Burrows had high hopes of finding love as the bachelor on a reality TV show. Instead, he’s sent home with a "girlfriend" he doesn't really like. When his best friend’s little sister is hired by the show, he realizes his girlfriend doesn't stand a chance because his feelings for Kate didn’t disappear when she became someone else’s wife.

Kate Dawson has two goals: get her screenplays on the big screen and keep her divorce a secret. So when her new boss insists that she push Drew towards an engagement, she promises to do her best. But she soon discovers that working closely with Drew brings back powerful memories of a fateful night seven years ago that started with a stolen kiss and ended in heartbreak.

With the world watching and the paparazzi around every corner, Drew and Kate must decide whether to follow the rules or allow their hearts to finally have their way.

My Review: 5 Stars

I don't watch The Bachelor, but I love books that incorporate that type of reality show into their story line and this one was great. Drew and Kate grew up together and have lost touch for seven years--until now. He's the billionaire bachelor and I loved seeing how things worked behind the scenes, and wondered how true-to-life it really is. 

Drew and Kate have a wonderful connection and their chemistry is off the charts. Corry does a great job in capturing the romantic tension in this steamy clean love story.  I love that Drew and Kate share a past and a solid friendship, which given the mutual attraction, gradually flourishes. There was a surprising depth and emotional element to this book that caught me off guard, since I was expecting pure fluff. Never fear--the fluff and sweetness is still there, but this depth brings about an engaging story that captivated me from start to finish. 

Content: mild+ romance (kissing)

Moonlighting with the British Rock Star (A Georgia Moon Novel) by Cindy Roland Anderson {Review}

Moonlighting with the British Rock Star (A Georgia Moon Romance Book 4) by Cindy Roland Anderson

Kindle Edition, 262 pages

Published March 11th 2020 by Amazon.com Services LLC 

Source: Kindle Unlimited

        

She needs a temporary fiancé.

He needs a new image.

Nobody was supposed to fall in love.

Trying to get out of her evil stepsister’s engagement party, Josie claims to be secretly engaged and can’t make it home. But when the engagement party turns into a wedding, Josie only has a few days to find a fiancé or admit she was lying. Things get more complicated when her wealthy employer tries helping and brings home a temporary fiancé for Josie to take to the wedding.

There’s only one problem...

He’s Colin Wilde.

The British rock star with a bad rep looking to change his ways.

My Review: 5 Stars

Ms Anderson is the queen of meet cutes and this one didn't disappoint! Josie is like a modern-day Cinderella and when her boss (and fairy godmother) steps in and finds her a fiance to fulfill her claims of having one, her life suddenly gets very, very interesting.

Colin and Josie are super cute together and I love how they're in an arrangement that benefits them both and how they work hard to help the other one first. Colin is a rock star with a past, but just like any normal bloke, people can change and cast aside their old ways. This author does a great job of showing his demons and the battle they give him, allowing him to be human. Josie has her own issues and this engagement feeds her soul the strength she needs to blossom into her true self.

As with the other Georgia Moon Romances, the swoon abounds and the sparks fly liberally. I couldn't get enough of the luscious kisses between these relatable and likable characters. This book was a true delight to escape into and I'm completely satisfied, especially with that perfect ending. And PS--I need Rescued to be a real song, like ASAP.

Content: mild+ romance (kissing, some innuendo)

Saving the Rookie by Jennifer Youngblood and Stephanie Fowers {Review}

Saving the Rookie by Jennifer Youngblood and Stephanie Fowers

Kindle Edition

Published March 1st 2020 by Ditch Lily Press 

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

 

    

 

Friendship or flames? What’s a girl got to do to get a certain firefighter to see her as more than just “one of the guys?”

Ani Hyde’s steely heart won’t open to anyone.

Before her mother’s drug overdose, she learned to take care of herself and it made her fiery—maybe too fiery. Now, years later, she’s become a professional heart-breaker, keeping everyone at arm's length and rejecting every bachelor on her reality TV show.

Only one man has ever broken through her defenses… and he hasn't got a clue.

Rhett Singer was always protective of Ani, but she left him smoldering after she fled their hometown for LA without so much as a goodbye. Now that she's returned to Jackson Hole with a camera crew and a possessive boy-toy, Rhett realizes that she is also igniting the forgotten embers of his heart. Though Rhett’s supposed to be the firefighter covering Ani’s event, he can't seem to keep things professional and the “rookie” finds himself running headlong into the fray once again to rescue the girl he once knew.

Can Ani and Rhett temper their fiery hearts before it all goes up in flames? Or will the misunderstandings of the past engulf them?

 

My Review: 5 Stars

 

Jackson Hole has a special place in my heart and I'm loving this series! Rhett is one of the newbies and has a past with his backdoor neighbor, Ani, who is a big reality TV star. This concrete cast of characters drew me right into the book and I loved every minute of it.

  

The sparks sizzle into flames in this childhood love romance, especially as Ani brings her show back to her hometown, and I really enjoyed the blazing danger, wisps of love, and daredevil adventure that this story delivers. The solid friendship and delicate affection fastened themselves right to the core of my heart and kept me fully engaged, leaving me eagerly watching this escapade unfold.   

 

I'm definitely not one to take risks and it was fun to read about characters who are way more brave than I am. I felt some anxiety with the perilous feats that Ani and her team practiced, particularly when Rhett was involved, but loved that this component helped escalate the romantic excitement. It was a treat to watch these embers come to back to life and ignite a full-on forest fire of love.

 

Content: mild romance; mild moments of danger 

Don't Trash the Heartthrob by Victorine E. Lieske {Review}

Don't Trash the Heartthrob by Victorine E. Lieske

Kindle Edition, 173 pages

Published February 21st 2020 

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

    

He was a movie star. She was a nobody. Until their worlds collided.

Stephanie couldn’t believe it when the handsome and famous actor, Brandon Travers, responded to her Vlog. Maybe it hadn’t been the best idea to publicly state how poorly he played Xander in the latest movie craze, The Paper Pirate. Now Brandon wanted a public apology, one that Stephanie wasn’t about to make.

Brandon’s life was out of control. Every second of his life was dictated by other people. He had to play so many parts, he’d forgotten what living his own life was like. His only escape from all of the pressure was something that could end up destroying him. And he couldn’t stop.

The only thing he looked forward to was talking to Stephanie. He needed her help or he was going to end up imploding.

My Review: 4 Stars

Everyone wants to be a big vlogger or YouTube star these days. Okay, maybe not everyone, but Stephanie sure does and she loves to critique movies. Imagine her surprise when she trashes a teen actor and he actually starts up a conversation with her. Some things aren't too good to be true, or so it seems.

Stephanie is snarky and down-to-earth, but has some serious relationship issues, which causes her to put a nix on anything date-y. Her best friends makes a high school matching app, which Stephanie reluctantly signs up for, and the results are a slight love triangle--high school style. I love her sass and style, especially where a certain celebrity is concerned.   

I also appreciated the way Lieske portrayed Brandon. He's a teen star and like a lot of them, battles with the partying scene, as well as finding his voice, his place, and where he fits in life, and after one final straw, he ends up closer to Stephanie than anyone ever expects. I adored and anticipated their interactions, especially the zings that Stephanie would launch. Although he has issues of his own, this gregarious heartthrob stole a piece of my inner teenage heart.

I love this series and the fun romp back to the past. Lieske has an engaging writing style that always seems to reel me in, with her solid characters and sweet romance. If you love high school drama, you'll love this one.

Content: mild romance (kissing, light innuendo); teen partying

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

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

Kindle Edition

Publication: January 14th 2020 by SYG Productions 

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

 

    

 

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

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

But tonight, something is off.

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

Someone in the crowd is shooting a gun.

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

 

My Review: 5 Stars

 

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

 

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

 

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

  

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