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

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

Chasing Moonbeams by Cindy Roland Anderson {Review}

Chasing Moonbeams by Cindy Roland Anderson

Kindle Edition, 139 pages

Published February 26th 2021 

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

 

Her heart's been broken too many times.
He was the first one to break it.
Will fate give them a second chance?


When recently divorced Callie Stewart, an aspiring country music artist, confronts the dishonest talent agent who stole her new song, he turns the tables on her, and her world spins out of control. Without proof she composed the hit song, Callie is forced to take her twin boys with her, move out of Nashville and live with her aunt in Georgia. Having her dreams shattered leaves her trying to figure out how she will support her little family. Reconnecting with Ty Carter, her long-ago crush from high school and the guy who broke her heart, has her questioning her resolve to leave romance out of her new life. Ty isn't just a good-looking cowboy, he's sweet to her boys and makes Callie feel beautiful and alive. As her feelings for Ty grow stronger, the music reawakens inside her, inspiring her creativity and the desire to sing. Giving love a second chance might be the key to a forever love, and the start of a new music career...but can it be both?

Author's Note: This book originally appears as The Cowboy's Second Go, in the Big Sky Timeless Western Collection. Chasing Moonbeams features a never before published epilogue you won't want to miss! It also has been updated with added content that more closely ties into the Georgia Moon Romance series. 

   

My Review: 5 Stars

Anderson has a way of writing that brings a smile to my face. Her stories are sweet and swoony, hinge on a meet cute, and are marinated in humor--and this one is no different.

Callie has been wronged and is starting over back home as a single mom of twin boys. A man from her teenage past is now a part of her present and I love the ways they keep running into each other, but I especially enjoyed their first meeting after years. Adorable! Ty regrets his last interaction with Callie and I loved how he can man-up and admit his wrongs. 

The walks by the lake and porch swing talks, combined with the sparks that are still sparking like fireflies after all these years, added to the precocious twins made for an enchantingly sweet contemporary romance. I love Anderson's writing style and I really loved the way music played such a big part of the story. I found myself wishing I could hear these songs and go through the creative process with Callie. 

I'll say it again--adorable! I loved every minute of it.

Content: mild romance (swoony, kissing)

Ever Only Friends by Shaela Kay {Review}

Ever Only Friends by Shaela Kay

Kindle Edition, 230 pages

Published January 26th 2021 

Source: Kindle Unlimited

 

 

 

They were only ever friends... but is that how they're going to stay?

When Amie’s fiancé breaks off their engagement, she does what any rational, 24-year-old law student would do: eats her weight in Ben & Jerry's and pawns the ring her ex-fiancé could have sold a kidney for. But Amie's got more problems than her expanding waistline: her entire world was planned around (and by) Derek. Without him, she doesn't even know how she likes her coffee, let alone what she wants to do with her life.

Jason is stuck running the family business, when all he really wants to do is make filet mignon and perfect his crème brûlée. When his childhood friend shows up next door with a broken heart, he takes it upon himself to cheer her up, just like he did when they were kids. She's only around for the summer—what could possibly happen?

Amie and Jason were only ever friends, so when sparks start to fly it catches them both off guard—especially since Jason’s culinary dreams are about to come true and Amie finally has her life figured out. With summer drawing to a close and Amie heading back to school, will their friendship survive the tug-of-war between them? Or will the summer end with more than just Amie's broken heart?

   

My Review: 5 Stars

It's so easy in life to go along with what makes others happy. I don't like conflict and don't enjoy rocking the boat, so I could understand and relate to Amie and how she found herself trapped in a persona that doesn't truly reflect who she used to be. A quick jilt just before walking down the aisle was actually the blessing in disguise that helped her dig out her long forgotten identity. I enjoyed discovering who Amie really was.

After a move back home, Amie reconnects with her childhood best friend, Jason. I loved how they each helped each other recognize their potential and callings in life. Fantastic characters are what really drove this book deep into my heart. I love good connections and the feel-good warmth of friends, familiarity, and love.

I'll drool over Ben and Jerry's any time, but it was Jason's cooking creations that left me with a wet spot on my shirt. I loved the flow of this story--the pacing, comfort, delicious descriptions, and dazzling chemistry made for a great story. This is my first book by this author and it won't be my last.

Decoy Valentine by Shannon Kent {Review}

Decoy Valentine by Shannon Kent

Kindle Edition

Published January 10th 2021 

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

 

 

 

FROM FAKE RELATIONSHIP TO TRUE LOVE

A broken engagement drives Susanna Kelly back to her hometown of Sweetheart, Texas and the arms of its quirky, lovable citizens. But her peaceful return to her roots is shattered when heart-shaped notes with sinister messages start appearing. The support of Daniel Sheppard, Asian American bestselling author and her childhood friend, gives her a much needed ally amidst the turmoil. He offers to play the role of her boyfriend to discourage the stalker, but Susanna resists. Pretending to be a couple? And with Daniel of all people? Who would buy it?

The note writer's mind games force her to reconsider. Susanna accepts Daniel's crazy plan, but her heart acts up whenever she's near her decoy valentine. Comfortable, uncomplicated Daniel has turned into a full-grown man who makes her senses spin. As she tries to sort out her feelings, the make-believe romance has the opposite effect intended. Harmless notes turn into life-threatening accidents, and Daniel and Susanna must find out who's behind the chaos before they can decide if their temporary relationship is a heaven-sent gift meant to last forever.

 

   

 

My Review: 4 Stars

 

Decoy Valentine is a story full of adventure, danger, and love. Kent does a great job of capturing a reader's attention with menacing threats and moments of peril, mingling with a tender romance.

 

Susanna is back in her small hometown of Sweetheart, ready to help withe the town's Valentine celebration. She's an overly nice and giving character, which leads to her being taken advantage of by some of these quirky residents. Her childhood best friend, Daniel, shows up again as well, which leads to a fake relationship, escalated threats, and a hint of romance. Daniel is a solid, likable character, with a sweet, protective streak.

 

I really enjoyed the way Kent kept me guessing. The mystery/suspense elements were well done and not very easy to untangle--just the way I like it. The pacing was perfect--not too overwhelming, but moved at a believable stride. I would have loved an epilogue to tie everything together, especially with the celebration, but it was still very entertaining.

Although I'm all about the love, this story was a great deviant from the typical Valentine's story and I loved the blend of a perilous romance.

Content: mild romance; mild violent/perilous situations; mild+ religion

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

A Christmas Spark by Cindy Steele {Review}

A Christmas Spark by Cindy Steele

Kindle Edition, 131 pages

Published December 5th 2020 by Amazon

Source: Kindle Unlimited

 

When my best friend found out I’d be alone over Christmas, she hooked me up with a week stay in her family’s cabin in Idaho. I was on a publishing deadline for my latest book and was really looking forward to a cozy week by the fire, cuddled up in flannel pajamas with my laptop and hot chocolate.

Alone.

So imagine my surprise when I arrived at the cabin during a blizzard, and found it already occupied. By an all too familiar face and a fine pack of chiseled abs. Even though it had been ten years since I’d last seen Chase, he had no problem picking up exactly where we left off.

I had a big problem with it.

It didn’t matter what he threw at me—the old nickname, the teasing, his charming grin, or even those chiseled abs (did I already mention those?), I refused to let him get to me after…the incident. Nope, not me. I was made of stone.

Unfortunately, I’m beginning to understand that when you strike Chase against stone…you get sparks.

Lots of them.

   

My Review: 4 Stars

The Christmas season often puts me in the mood for a sugary sweet and humorous love story and what better treat than being snowed in with your enemy for the holidays?  

This story is such a fun RomCom with a series of mishaps, laughs, swoons, and more. Penny and Chase have a past, but things aren't always as they seem to be and being stuck together helps them uncover their buried secrets and discover what matters. I loved their prickly banter just as much as I adored the undeniable chemistry.

From the festive cover, to the impeccable amount of swoon and romantic tension, this story will hit the holiday sweet spot. This debut author is definitely one to keep an eye on!

Content: mild romance 

If For Any Reason (Nantucket Love Story #1) by Courtney Walsh {Review}

If For Any Reason by Courtney Walsh

Paperback, 408 pages

Published February 3rd 2020 by Tyndale House Publishers

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

 

 

Emily Ackerman has traveled the world, her constant compass and companion a book of letters her mother left for her when she died. With no father in the picture, her mom's advice has been her only true north. But when professional failure leads Emily back to Nantucket to renovate and sell the family cottage she inherited, she wonders if her mom left advice to cover this . . . especially when her grandmother arrives to "supervise." And especially when her heart becomes entangled with Hollis McGuire, the boy next door-turned-baseball star who's back on the island after a career-ending injury.

As sparks fly between her and Hollis, Emily is drawn to island life, even as she uncovers shocking secrets about the tragic accident that led to her mother's death. With her world turned upside down, Emily must choose between allowing the voices from her past to guide her future or forging her own path forward.

 

  

My Review: 4 Stars

There is something about the sea air that soothes my soul and warms my heart. Emily has traveled all over the world, but is back in Nantucket and almost immediately runs into Hollis, a friend from her past. Although there are bumps along Emily's journey and secrets to uncover, there is a comforting thread running throughout this poignant story.

Emily has a lot of challenges to overcome and this sweet book allowed for growth, love, and dreams to manifest. I loved the way Emily bonded with Jolie, which unintentionally strengthens their individual relationships with Hollis. 

The flashbacks to the past helped to complete this moving story and the whole thing encompassed every inch of my heart. 

Content: mild romance (implications to intimacy, kissing), mild+ religion

A Heart of Gold by Stacy Henrie {Review}

 

A Heart of Gold by Stacy Henrie

ebook, 250 pages

Published September 15th 2020 by Mirror Press 

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

 a Rafflecopter giveaway 

  

They'll have to conquer more than the Klondike Trail to reach her father in time—they’ll have to overcome their past too.

After months of silence from her father in the Klondike, Tava Rutherford finally receives word from him. Only the outdated letter reveals that her father is ill and may be dying. Desperate to discover his fate, Tava resolves to make the journey to the wilds of northwestern Canada. But Jess Lawmen, her ranch foreman and the man who broke her heart, insists she doesn't go alone. Jess intends to keep his promise to look out for her—even if that means traveling thousands of miles with Tava, the woman he claims to feel just friendship for but has never stopped loving.

With their own ragtag group of travelers in tow, Tava and Jess confront one challenge after another as they join the hundreds of stampeders scrambling to reach the goldfields. But as the two of them come face to face with their past hurts and mistakes in their race to reach Tava’s father, they will have to decide whether to cling to safety or risk their hearts for something even greater.  

My Review: 4 Stars

 

This story reminded me a bit of that old animal adventure movie, The Incredible Journey. Tava and Jess embark on a journey to the Klondike to find out if her father (and his employer) is still alive and the ragtag crew they find themselves traveling with rounded out the story.

Everyone has issues to work through, but Jess's seem heavier than usual and this rough and tough trek seemed more mental and emotional for him than it was physical. In fact, it seemed that way for most of the group and I was really hoping for a grand (and difficult) expedition. Even though their trip wasn't as perilous as I was hoping for, Jess and Tava were both likable characters and their growth was satisfying.

Sweet and gentle, for the most part, along with redemption, are recurring threads running throughout this book and it was an enjoyable trip through the pages to take. 

Content: mild romance; mild religion; talk of drinking; mild danger

Stacy's link: BookBub: https://www.bookbub.com/authors/stacy-henrie

Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Stacy-Henrie/e/B008ESZ46U

Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/5778153.Stacy_Henrie

A Heart of Gold Tour schedule

9/21 - Heidi Reads / Mom With a Reading Problem

9/22 - Wishful Endings / LDS and Lovin It

9/23 - Literary Time Out / Julie Coulter Bellon / My Book a Day / Singing Librarian Books

9/24 - Katie’s Clean Book Collection / Bookworm Lisa / Empower Moms

9/25 - The Bibliophile Files / Kellie Dickes / Books are Sanity 

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

Breach of Promise (Forever Home Romances, Book 3) by Jennifer Griffith {Review}

Breach of Promise by Jennifer Griffith

Kindle Edition

Published August 11th 2020

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

Aircraft mechanic and secret sci-fi novelist Cash Conway has been transferred to his hometown of Torrey Junction the week of his 30th birthday, a place he hasn’t visited once since he left for tech school. The second he rolls into town, he nearly crashes his vintage truck.

It’s Annabel Houston!

He can’t catch up to her, but he will. And if she’s available, he’s going after her.

Dental assistant and former actress Annabel Houston has waited on her birthday for the past twelve years for Cash Conway to return and make good on his promise to marry her. After all, he signed the contract that said he would if they reached 30 unhitched.

But he’s been slow to appear, and the town’s most-eligible bachelor is wearing away at Annabel’s defenses with proposal after proposal.

When Cash’s plans go awry, the only choice he has is to take Annabel to court and sue her for breach of promise.

A return to hometown romance with a sweet reunion, a secret identity, and Beauty and the Beast echoes, Breach of Promise is Book 3 in the Forever Home Romances by award-winning clean romance author Jennifer Griffith. All books in this series have a sweet "reunion" theme, sweet and satisfying kisses, and a guaranteed HEA.

My Review: 5 Stars

Torrey Junction is the perfect setting for this forever home series and I loved the contract that was forged between Cash and Annabel. I love the trope of getting together on a certain date if both parties are still single and Cash makes good on that promise by the skin of his teeth. Their reunion is ultra-sweet and I loved watching Cash trying to woo Annabel and make her his once again.

As part of the deal, Cash makes Annabel promise to allow him five dates (and a couple of kisses) and these dates were the sweetest, most creative activities ever! If I wasn't in love with him before, I definitely would have been after, but Annabel is a tough cookie. What really solidified my love for Cash was the way he connected with and treated her father.

These characters are winsome and the romance is electrifying. Swoon, swoon, swoon! My heart has been stolen and locked away in this quaint, wholesome town and I've loved my time spent here.

Content: mild romance (swoony kisses)

A Well-Trained Lady (Seasons of Change #4) by Jess Heileman {Review}

A Well-Trained Lady by Jess Heileman

Kindle Edition

Expected publication: July 28th 2020 by Vagabond Publishing
Source: I received a complimentary copy. All opinions expressed are my own and were voluntarily given

    

Arabella Godwin is an Incomparable in London Society—elegant, wealthy, and meticulously trained. Yet, she has nothing to show for her efforts aside from her pretentious reputation and a collection of disappointed suitors. When her plan to secure a promising offer of marriage is temporarily delayed, she must bide her time in the company of an estranged childhood friend—the much-too-endearing, but regrettably untitled, Augustus Brundage.

As the friends’ tattered relationship returns to familiarity, Arabella must prevent herself from fully regressing into the carefree, impressionable young lady who once foolishly trusted Augustus with her heart. To make the same mistake again would ruin everything she has worked for—and certainly more.

But, can a heart be so easily trained?

**Heat Level:Mild/Sweet

My Review: 5 Stars

Times like these leave the soul craving for friendships and connection and I loved that this cute story was full of them. Bella and Ruth were such great friends, yet they've been out of touch for years. That elements lends a slight mysterious tone to an overall sweet second chance romance.

Although Bella seems to be a fickle heart breaker, glimpses of her true self show that she's a fun, compassionate, and selfless woman, but the layers of fake are thick. I loved how she helped Ruth and her cousin Sarah, training them in the ways of society, especially when those lessons turned fairly humorous. 

As for Augustus...I absolutely adored him! He's not a man of wealthy, but his riches come in the form of integrity, honor, and the fantastic way he treats the ladies in his life. He's passionate, persistent, and strong, which makes him the perfect man to woo Bella and win her over, as he tried to do years ago.

I enjoy a good house party and this one delivers the right amount of drama to go along with the swoony romance. The variety of relationships and characters was great and added so much to the plot and story line. Great writing! And now I need to go read the rest of the series.

Content: mild romance; talk of death, murder, suicide

A Well-Trained Lady is a stand-alone sweet Regency romance novel, book four in the Seasons of Change Series. Other books in this series include:

Book One: The Road Through Rashbury by Martha Keyes
Book Two: The Last Eligible Bachelor by Ashtyn Newbold
Book Three: A Forgiving Heart by Kasey Stockton
Book Four: A Well-Trained Lady by Jess Heileman
Book Five: (Coming Soon) by Deborah M. Hathaway
Book Six: (Coming Soon) A Haunting at Havenwood by Sally Britton
Book Seven: (Coming Soon) His Disinclined Bride by Jennie Goutet

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)

A Marriage of Anything But Convenience by Victorine E. Lieske {Review}

A Marriage of Anything But Convenience by Victorine E. Lieske

Kindle Edition

Published May 30th 2020 

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

 

    

It was a simple marriage of convenience. Just two years. What could possibly go wrong?

All Nara wanted was to become a fashion designer. That, and an IV full of Diet Coke to feed her favorite addiction. She never thought her father would force her into a marriage of convenience. And who did he choose for her wedded bliss? None other than Derek Marshall, Mr. Stuffy himself.

Derek’s been in love with Nara since they were kids, but he’s always become so tongue-tied around her. He wasn’t like the guys she dated, smooth and confident. No, he was too awkward and nervous. So, when Nara’s father decided it was best if they marry, he readily agreed.

Maybe being forced together for two years would make her see him differently.

A sweet romantic comedy, full of laugh out loud moments and swoony kisses.

My Review: 4 Stars

A marriage of convenience is one of my favorite bookish tropes and I loved how this one had a sliver of love threaded through it. Nara and Derek have known each other since they were kids and now that her father is "forcing" them to get married, they have a chance to get to know each other in a different way.

Nara and Derek are great characters, but I'm definitely more like Derek. He was extremely awkward, not wanting to take risks, expose his heart, sit in the spotlight, or attract any kind of attention. That's me! Because of that, Nara often made me uncomfortable because she was so opposite, so determined to bring a smile to Derek's face, and she wasn't shy in her feelings towards her father. But she was completely intriguing and I absolutely adored watching this "forced" relationship unfold.

I loved the settings for this character driven story and could visualize things in my mind like I was watching a movie. I laughed and swooned, and didn't want this one to end.

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

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

How to Not Fall for the Guy Next Door by Meg Easton

Kindle Edition

Publication: April 28th 2020 by Mountain Heights Publishing 

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

      

It’s hard to stay away when you’re next-door neighbors.

So what if the guy Addison Sparks had a crush on when she was thirteen just so happens to be her next-door neighbor when she moves across the country for a fresh start? And so what if she embarrasses herself in front of him...

Repeatedly.

If Ian Kendrick hadn’t grown up to be so good-looking, kind to his grandma, skilled at carpentry, and completely dateable, then it wouldn’t be so difficult to stay away from him.

Addison is just getting over a breakup, though, and Ian is, too. She doesn’t need the kind of awkwardness that would come from living next to someone who would surely be just a rebound if they ever dated.

Nope. What she needs is to make a list to constantly remind herself how to not fall for the guy next door.

My Review: 5 Stars

Ian and Addison are fantastic stars in this adorable romantic comedy. It's one thing to be awkward around your teenage crush, but when the embarrassing encounters continue years later, it's blush-worthy and makes for some great laugh-out-loud moments.

Both Addison and Ian are fresh off of bad breakups and ready for new starts and I loved how they were able to build on an old summertime friendship from the past with the perfect amount of familiarity and clean intimacy.

Addison's relationship with her sister made me miss my own and her fortitude in her new start is heartening. I loved her eclectic group of roommates and hope they each get a story because I'm not ready to leave this small town quite yet. Ian is a very appealing character, with his hands-on job and a winsome attitude--especially when Addison finds herself in pickle after pickle. 

The way this couple navigates life's challenges, chasing after dreams, hearts, and everything in between was pure delight. I dare you not to swoon!

Content: mild romance

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 

The Solicitor's Son (Serendipity #3) by Rachael Anderson {Review}

The Solicitor's Son (Serendipity #3) by Rachael Anderson

Kindle Edition, 192 pages

Published January 22nd 2020 by HEA Publishing 

Source: Kindle Unlimited

 

    

 

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

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

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

 

My Review: 5 Stars

 

I wish I could live in this cover...and in the pages behind it. I love everything about this cover and I'm so happy that it's a perfect match for the story within.

 

House parties are so fascinating to me and I adore that we get glimpses of characters from past books in this story. I have a penchant for protagonists who have imperfections and that's just what is delivered in this offering. 

 

Sophia is fiercely stalwart in her decisions...and she has red hair, freckles, and hates to wear hats, which leads to sunburns. She's also quite hilarious in her nicknames for the match her mother is trying to force. Hugh is charming and smart, but isn't a who's-who in society, although he makes the best of his situation and has worked hard to get to where he is in life. Although this couple encounters many snags in their interactions at this house party, every moment together is extremely endearing and pleasing.

 

This book brought smiles to my face and allowed me the most heavenly escape. The Solicitor's Son is delectable from cover to cover and I'm still standing by my thought that Rachael Anderson is an auto-read author every time. 

Content: mild romance