Dandelion Meadows by Jen Spencer {Book Review}

 

Dandelion Meadows by Jen Spencer

The last thing Emma Dustin wants is to come crawling back to Dandelion Meadows with her tail between her legs, but a misunderstanding at her financial planning firm has left her without a job and without another option. Uncle Harvey, may he rest in peace, left Emma his house plus the little piece of land he used to farm, and there is nowhere else for her to go. Despite her humiliation at coming home unemployed, Emma is determined to fulfill Uncle Harvey’s last wish, even though she isn’t quite sure what it is. Is it possible for Emma to make a life in Dandelion Meadows? And will the mayor put her in charge of Sandpaper Awareness Week?

One-time cowboy and full-time geologist Matt Matthews is not the bad guy, even if Emma Dustin thinks he is. He’s only trying to restore his father’s money, the money that Emma’s uncle Harvey cheated his father out of. Harvey must have had some remorse because he left Matt the house in his will, but Emma Dustin has the nerve to show up and claim the house is hers. Well, possession is nine-tenths of the law, and Matt isn’t about to move out. Unfortunately, neither is Emma. Emma is cute and irresistibly feisty, but she’s in Matt’s way, and he’ll do whatever it takes to get her out of his house and away from Dandelion Meadows. Can he get rid of his unwelcome housemate before he falls in love with her?

My Review: 3 Stars

Small town romances are always a lot of fun, especially when they involve a slew of quirky characters and amusing situations. An added enemies-to-love trope made this story full of entertaining friction.

A bonus lesson found within these pages is the reminder that things aren't always as they seem.

Content: mild romance

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

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

The Stolen Princess (Desolation #3) by Kortney Keisel

ebook, 362 pages

Published April 26, 2021

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

 

 

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

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

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

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

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

  

My Review: 4 Stars

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

ebook, 189 pages

Published April 19, 2021

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

 

 

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

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



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



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



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

 

My Review: 4.5 Stars

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

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

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

Content: mild romance; mild scene of danger/peril 

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

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

Chute Boss by Sophia Summers {Review}

Chute Boss (Lost Creek Rodeo #2) by Sophia Summers, Heather B. Moore, Rebecca Connolly

Kindle Edition

Publication: February 9th 2021 by Kings Row Press 

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

The perfect vacation: Rest. Therapy. And miles away from Reid Browning.

At first Eden thinks she's spending three weeks at Broken Hearts Ranch to heal her head. But the longer she works with Kellie, the more she realizes her head is not the only thing hurting. Images from her tour in Iraq stay hidden but not deeply enough, and she knows she will need to forget or heal or both if she is ever going to move on. As a bonus, the ranch was going to be a good opportunity to avoid the dating scene, and men in general. Or so she thought.

As a world class bareback rider, Reid has given his all to rodeo and does everything he can to forget his law degree and the fast paced life he left in Washington DC. That includes the woman he recently met who got under his skin in all the wrong ways. The trouble is, she got under his skin in the right ways too. When he escapes to Texas to support his college brothers in the Lost Creek Rodeo, he couldn't be more surprised to find her there.

Sparks fly and not always the good kind, but when circumstances throw them together and barriers come down, the two just might find a path to healing and maybe even love.

 

   

 

My Review: 4 Stars

 

I love that this series takes some serious issues, broken-hearted women, swoon-worthy cowboys, and melds them all into a giant pot of deliciously sweet romance. And I enjoy learning more about the rodeo life and the events that are a part of that career.

 

Reid is a bareback rider and those bucking horses would be not only thrilling, but terrifying. He has two completely different lives, yet he's solid and chivalrous. His way of coping is off-putting for Eden, and causes an intense enemies-to-love story. Both Reid and Eden experience a similar type of injury that almost forces them to bond, against their wills. Eden is a war vet and that took me by surprise, because I don't read many books where the woman is the vet, suffering the effects of her service. I loved that she was so strong and stubborn, but I wanted her prickles to be a little softer.

 

The chemistry in this book was passionate. I wasn't ever sure if it would explode into a rage or into something romantic, but those fiery emotions were definitely present, making this story very enjoyable. 

 

From a massive dog, to collisions, to dances, to journal writing, to kissing...this book drew me right in and brought a lovely story to life. 

 

Content: mild romance (kissing); mild violence (rodeo and war flashbacks)

Rules Don't Apply by Mylissa Demeyere {Review}

  

Rules Don't Apply by Mylissa Demeyere

Kindle Edition

Publication: January 5, 2021 

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

       

I have loved Chris from the first day I laid eyes on him. But he’s my best friend. So I’ve watched and waited, forever the friend, never the girlfriend.

Abby is sure of a lot of things in life: her spot in the engineering program at Berkeley, her obsession for Chris, and her guaranteed slot in the friend zone. But this year is going to be different.

Shane has it all in life. The looks, the charm, the personality. He can’t help it that the entire female student body have dubbed him the number-one player on campus.

When Abby’s plan to open up to Chris backfires in the worst possible way, she finds an ally in none other than Shane, the one guy she’s never taken seriously.

All bets are off as Shane helps navigate Abby out of the friend zone and into the end zone. But sparks fly when you play with fire...

 

My Review: 5 Stars

 

I love a story with solid characters and this new adult book definitely has them. Abby has been in love with her best friend, Chris, for forever and Shane, the big player on campus, is going to finally help her win him over once and for all.

Demeyere does a great job on connecting the reader with the characters. I could relate to Abby and was cheering her on in her quest to go from friends to lovers, but Shane is utterly adorable and the weekend set aside for the transformation totally had me switching teams. The themes of friendship, attraction, and seeing a person's true colors, realizing there was some mistaken beliefs, allow for a perfectly sweet and entertaining story.

 

This is the type of book that feels like a bowl of comfort food--soup, to be exact--warm, creamy, and delicious, with a hint of sweet and spice. I loved the adventures, the metamorphosis, the romantic allure, and that precocious Mia (Shane's younger sister). 

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 

Christmas at Angels Landing (Sugarplum Romances #3) by Jennifer Griffith {Review}

Christmas at Angels Landing (Sugarplum Romance #3) by Jennifer Griffith

Kindle Edition, 220 pages

Published December 15th 2020 

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

 

 

 

A vintage Christmas novel lost. A romance found.

It’s Christmastime, and Tabitha Townsend is desperate to keep her personal shopping business, Twelve Days, afloat. Her only hope is finding a one-of-a-kind vintage novel for a wealthy client who demands total secrecy. Sigh-worthy bookstore owner, Sam, could be key to her success.

Sam Bartlett, widower and owner of Angels Landing Bookstore, can’t keep his inventory of used books stocked this Christmas, thanks to competition from gorgeous but exasperating Tabitha Townsend. When an auction unearths a coveted prize with deep meaning for Sam, sparks fly.

Things heat up even more when the matchmaking mayor pairs them at the town festival, and the chemistry between them is allowed to develop. Will their rivalry over the book pull them together or drive them apart in this holiday romance?

   

 

My Review: 5 Stars

 

Sugarplum Falls is a throwback-to-the-past kind of town and the vintage feel of this charmingly sweet Christmas romance is reminiscent of simpler times. This type of setting with this type of story make me feel cozy, secure, and content.

 

Sam and Tabitha have a tumultuous relationship, as they always seem to in competition. But that doesn't stop the sparks from igniting and developing into something sweet and tender. 

 

Tabitha is the type of woman who has "a deep love for preserving the past and a serious commitment to other people's happiness" and it was a joy to watch her use those talents to settle into her business and personal relationships. 

 

Sam comes across as an antiquated man, but his enthusiasm for books and kindness make him an endearing character. 

 

The matchmaking, rivalry, and attraction brought this story to life and I loved it.

 

Content: mild romance

One Fake Fiance by Jennifer Youngblood {Review}

One Fake Fiance (Romeo Family Romance #) by Jennifer Youngblood

Kindle Edition

Published November 2nd 2020 

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

 

 

He dreams of owning a ranch. She needs a fiancé pronto. Can the cowboy and the debutante find common ground? Or will their shot at happily-ever-after get stomped to smithereens before it even has a chance to begin?

Lucas Romeo has no time for love. He’s been down that road before, and it didn’t end well. When his sister Lexi fixes him up on a blind date with her friend Magnolia, things take a disastrous turn. Lucas has no intention of ever going out with Magnolia again—not if she were the last woman on earth. Forget that she’s stunningly beautiful. She’s also spoiled and entitled, the kind of woman who wouldn’t last a day on a ranch.

Then, Magnolia makes Lucas a deal he can’t refuse …

 

   

My Review: 5 Stars

 

I love the Romeo family and briefly met Magnolia in the last book, One Singing Bachelorette. Lucas is a grumpy, stubborn cowboy and when his sister matches him up with her friend, Magnolia, fireworks immediately explode--but not in the way one would expect. This explosive connection was fiery and entertaining, especially because it jump starts a delightful tale that captivated me.

 

I love the way Youngblood writes these characters. Their dynamic personalities light up the pages and all though there are some prickly and crusty exteriors, hearts of gold are beneath the surfaces--and that goes for both of them.

 

This enemies-to-love match was intriguing, especially with their secret background and the interesting reason for them coming together. With Christmas magic, a rigid grandfather, an eccentric and colorful woman, an ex-boyfriend...and don't forget a snowstorm...my heart was taken on a remarkable journey and I enjoyed every minute of it.

Content: mild romance

Brass Carriages and Glass Hearts by Nancy Campbell Allen {Review}

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Brass Carriages and Glass Hearts by Nancy Campbell Allen

Paperback, 368 pages

Publication: October 6th 2020 by Shadow Mountain 

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

 

   

 

A steampunk retelling of Cinderella.

Emmeline O’Shea is determined to save the world—single-handedly, if necessary. A strong voice for societal reform, she is the natural choice to deliver a key speech at the end of the International Shifter Rights Organization’s week-long Summit in Scotland.

But when a death threat arrives at Emme’s home, she is immediately placed into protective custody, watched over by none other than her personal nemesis, Detective-Inspector Oliver Reed. The two have crossed paths many times, with disastrous results, but now they will have to work together in order to reach the Summit before midnight of the last day in order to ensure legislation is passed to protect the Shifter community.

As unseen enemies close in around Emme and Oliver, they struggle to reach Edinburgh by any means necessary, only to find Emme’s vindictive stepsister, Oliver’s vampire brother, and a dangerous political minefield awaiting them in Scotland.

Even more difficult is their own refusal to admit that the fiery animosity that once burned between them might be turning into the heat of romantic passion. Could a straitlaced policeman determined to uphold the law and an outspoken activist willing to break the rules ever find true love? Or will all their dreams shatter like glass when the clock strikes midnight? 

My Review: 5 Stars

 

I'm always up for a fairy tale retelling and I love the way this author brings these beloved stories into a steampunk world, allowing for a fresh twist on a classic. 

 

In this installment, a Cinderella format is followed, although the fantasy elements and steampunk ingredients add a strand of excitement and suspense to the romance. I absolutely adored spunky Emme and her dashing enemy, Oliver, and was drawn into the thrill of their adventure and romance. They're equally strong characters and it was a rush to watch them join forces to battle evil.

 

The twists and turns with this story was exhilarating and the pages flew by. Steampunk is such an interesting genre and I enjoyed the way it added quirky modifications to a historical time, giving it a unique feel. I've read this series from the story and I don't feel that this genre and series are exhausted yet.
 

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

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 

The Enemy (It Happened in Charleston #2) by Sarah Adams {Review}

The Enemy (It Happened in Charleston #2) by Sarah Adams

Kindle Edition

Publication: August 29th 2020 

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

   

 

It’s been twelve years since I’ve seen him. Twelve years since he won our war of wits by outsmarting me with a tactic I didn’t even know was allowed. But tonight…I resurrect the battle.

Ryan Henderson is back in town for our best friends’ wedding, and I plan on showing him exactly how much I don’t care about him—or the almost kiss he ruthlessly dangled over me after graduation.

A lot has changed since our feuding days. I'm a successful bakery owner now, and I plan to rub every delicious detail of my life in his ugly face.

Just one problem: his face is gorgeous.

He wasn’t supposed to look like this or pursue me like a sexy guided missile. I must stay strong until the wedding is over and Ryan scurries back into whatever alternate universe he escaped from.

His interest in me is nothing but a continuation of the games we played in high school...right?

But the longer he stays, the more I wonder if I’m wrong and his tender smile and heated attentions are genuine. Maybe it’s not a game.

Ha! Who am I kidding? This is Ryan we’re talking about. Of course it’s a game. A game called war. And this time, I will win.

 

My Review: 5 Stars

 

Isn't it known that the closest emotion to love is hate? Ryan and June have been bitter enemies since high school and now, twelve years later, it's still war, especially when June realizes that Ryan has changed.

 

"Gone is the boyishness of his face. Gone are the lanky arms and legs. It's still Ryan staring me down, but Ryan the man. Ryan 2.0. Ryan maple-glazed and covered in sprinkles."

 

The Enemy is a perfectly snarky, hilarious romantic comedy that had me laughing and swooning throughout. Sarah Adams perfects her characters voices and portrays their personalities through their words and actions in ways that bring them to life. June is real (she's hard on herself and lacking trust), and loyal and funny. Ryan is determined, hard-working, a chef, and could charm the socks off a bear.

 

The combination of the battle of wits, pranks, and flirting makes for a delectably swoony concoction and will leave you craving donuts with a silly, satisfied smile on your face.

Content: mild+ romance

Search Angel: A Small Town Reunion Romance (Forever Home Romances Book 2) by Jennifer Griffith {Review}

Search Angel by Jennifer Griffith

Kindle Edition, 191 pages

Publication: July 28, 2020

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

    

A wounded athlete.
A missing father.
An old grudge.
Landscape architect and volunteer genealogy researcher Emma Shane has done everything she can to distance herself from her teenage past, where she was an orchestra geek targeted by rowdy athletes for pranks. She’s even altered her name. Now, she runs a successful business with her sister by day and after hours uses her special skill: helping people connect with lost relatives through DNA searches.

In her great new life, Emma never has to encounter any jerkface hockey players again, especially not Dempsey Dean Davidson, her high school bully.

Hockey star Dempsey Dean Davidson is a local god. As goalkeeper on the Reedsville Rhinos team, he’s got everything anyone could dream of—fame, fortune, and an awesome job. But he harbors a secret: a mysterious medical problem that could cost him his career.

As an adoptee out of foster care, he’s stuck. There’s no one to ask about genetic history. He can’t find any relatives. He needs help desperately, and there’s only one person in Reedsville with the skill to help him—and she’d rather see him tossed out of a plane onto a mountainside full of jumping cactus.

A novel that’s part mystery, part reunion romance, part learning to forgive, Search Angel is book 2 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 

For some people, leaving the past in the past and making a new start is much needed, as proves true for Emma. Dempsey ruined her high school life and a run-in with him several years later, as a search angel, brings back many emotions--hurt, crushes, insecurities, and more. 

I loved the adventure these two took to solve an age-old mystery as their relationship is build on solid ground this time, but it was the sweetness that stole the show. The sweet kisses, friendship, and reunions. The process of forgiveness and healing is prevalent in this story and that was another facet that made this a comforting, sweet book.

These characters were fantastically written. I adored their personalities and the way they allowed themselves to be true to their pasts, as well as to their growth. All that time wasted--but can that be true? Timing is everything in a romance. The search angel angle was very intriguing and I loved the swoon most of all. I'm looking forward to Book 3!

Content: mild, swoony romance

Penalty Box (Love in the Arena #1) by Kayla Tirrell {Review}

Penalty Box (Love in the Arena #1) by Kayla Tirrell

Kindle Edition, 210 pages

Published March 20th 2020 

Source: Kindle Unlimited

 

   

Silas broke her heart when he left two years ago. 
Now he’s back and wants to pick up where they left off. 


Miriam loves working for the local professional arena soccer team. She’s gearing up for the Storm’s best season yet but the new lineup has one major problem—Silas Jenkins. The guy who broke her heart has returned, and she’ll have to play nice or risk losing her dream job. 

Silas made the biggest mistake of his life two years when he signed with a rival soccer team in hopes of pushing his career to the next level. He realized too late that he left the love of his life behind. Now, he’s trying to make things right. But between adoring fans and teammates with a grudge, he'll be lucky if Miriam gives him the time of day.

When Miriam and Silas are thrown together for outreach events, will old feelings be rekindled?
Or is Silas doomed to the penalty box forever?

My Review: 4 Stars
A good second chance romance is always a hit, especially when things ended on bad terms and the characters are pretty much enemies now. Silas broke Miriam's heart, but he's back now and is a changed man. He sure has his work cut out for him to win her over though.

I loved the way this author ties sports with love and they are merged together in a way that one doesn't overpower the other, yet the reader is satisfied with both. I loved getting to know this team and more bout arena soccer, and hope to read stories about each one of the team members. I'm definitely intrigued and I love Tirrell's writing style.

I expected Silas to be a cocky jerk, but watching him settle into his team and new life proved otherwise. Miriam is understandably cautious, and I enjoyed watching true love crack her shell. These characters interested me and I loved watching their story unfold, especially in spite of their challenges. This is definitely a series to read!
Content: mild romance

My Fake Boyfriend (Sweet Mountain High Book 3) by Lacy Andersen {Review}

My Fake Boyfriend (Sweet Mountain High, Book 3) by Lacy Andersen

Kindle Edition, 164 pages

Published April 23rd 2020 by Sweet Heart Books LLC 

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

 

 

 

Faking romance is easy to do – but keeping my heart safe is a totally different matter.

Mia
All my life I’ve dreamed of becoming a famous journalist. Joining the school's newspaper is the first step toward that goal, but there's one catch—the only open spot is the relationship advice column. And without a boyfriend, I don’t qualify.

Until I catch Sweet Mountain’s bad boy, Jimmy Alston, burning down the school shed.

I could expose his criminal activities, or I could blackmail him into a fake relationship for the newspaper. Problem solved – that is, until Jimmy and his fake romance skills start to feel all too real.

Jimmy
Burning down that shed was an accident, but there’s no way I’ll get to keep my baseball scholarship if anyone finds out. It was my mom’s last wish to see me get out of this town and make something of myself. Nothing stands in my way—

Except for the beautiful and sharp-tongued Mia Jackson.

Now she’s got us faking a relationship together and fooling everyone at school. But maybe the biggest fool of them all is me, because I seem to keep forgetting that every touch, every look, and every kiss is fake. Together, we’re like fire and gasoline…and the school’s garden shed might not be the only thing heating up this year.

 

My Review: 5 Stars

 

I hope I never grow to old to enjoy a cute young adult story. This one is sweet and sassy and I couldn't get enough.

 

Mia is an aspiring journalist and when she stumbles upon a juicy story involving the school's bad boy, Jimmy, she just knows she's struck gold. But who knew it would be in the form of a blackmail quid pro quo type of deal. As these enemies learn to scratch each other's backs to get what they want, they realize their wants might not quite be accurate.

 

I adored these characters in so many ways. First of all, things aren't always as they seem, as they each come to realize. Secondly, sometimes truly getting to know a person can form unanticipated connections. Third, love knows no rhyme or reason and the sparks that ignited from this enemy-to-love story were threatening to spontaneously combust my kindle. 

 

I was ready to pack my bags and move into this story and enjoyed every single page. If you love sweet YA romance, you won't want to miss this one!

 

Content: mild violence/danger; mild romance (kissing, light innuendo) 

Lakeshire Park by Megan Walker {Blog Tour Review and Interview}

Lakeshire Park by Megan Walker

Paperback, 320 pages

Publication: April 7th 2020 by Shadow Mountain 

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

 
Brighton, England 1820
Amelia Moore wants only one thing—to secure the future happiness of her younger sister, Clara. With their stepfather’s looming death, the two sisters will soon be on their own—without family, a home, or a penny to their names. When an invitation arrives to join a house party at Lakeshire Park, Amelia grasps at the chance. If she can encourage a match between Clara and their host, Sir Ronald, then at least her sister will be taken care of.

Little does she know that another guest, the arrogant and overconfident Mr. Peter Wood, is after the same goal for his own sister. Amelia and Peter begin a rivalry that Amelia has no choice but to win. But competing against Peter—and eventually playing by his rules—makes Amelia vulnerable to losing the only thing she has left to claim: her heart.  

My Review: 5 Stars

I have a burning question--how can this be a debut novel?! I was deeply captivated from the moment I picked this book up until the final page was finished. In a time of life that is full of uncertainty and chaos, the time I spent within these covers was purely magical and I honestly couldn't get enough of this delightful Regency story. I loved everything about it, from the winsome characters, to the subtle love triangles, to the witty banter and flirtations. I knew I was going to be totally hooked from that delicious first meeting between Amelia and Peter and that hook never released me. In fact, days later, I'm still daydreaming about this beautiful escape.

Amelia and Peter both have the best interests of their sisters at heart, but sometimes the whispers of the heart speak louder than intentions. This house party was so much fun and one of the best ones I've read about, especially the scenes that bordered on inappropriate for the times. Those moments brought giddy smiles to my face, yet my emotions were tugged upon in the nagging threads of desperation that threatened Amelia and her sister.

This story is one of my favorites to date and I'm eagerly anticipating more from this new author.

Content: mild romance

AMAZON | BARNES & NOBLE | BOOK DEPOSITORY | INDIEBOUND

AUDIBLE | GOODREADS

AUTHOR BIO:

Megan Walker was raised on a berry farm in Poplar Bluff, Missouri, where her 
imagination took her to times past and worlds away. While earning her degree in Early 
Childhood Education, she married her one true love and started a family. But her imaginings 
of Regency England wouldn't leave her alone, so she picked up a pen and wrote her first 
novella, A Beautiful Love: A Regency Fairy Tale Retelling which was published in 2019. She 
lives in St. Louis, Missouri, with her husband and three children. Lakeshire Park is her debut 
novel. 

WEBSITE | FACEBOOK | TWITTER | INSTAGRAM | GOODREADS

My Summer Mistake by Anne-Marie Meyer {Review}

My Summer Mistake by Anne-Marie Meyer

Kindle Edition

Published March 2nd 2020 by Sweet Heart Books LLC 

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

 

    

 

He’s the one person I don’t want around and yet, I can’t ask him to leave.

Bella

The summer is coming to an end, and I’m barely surviving. Dad’s gone. Mom spends more time passed out on the couch than doing anything else. Thankfully, I have school and soccer to keep me distracted. Until Logan Cartwright walks back into my life. He’s acting like his family didn’t ruin mine and confusing me more than ever. I’m supposed to hate him, but he’s nice and everywhere I don’t want him to be.

Logan

I’m back home in Sweet Mountain, ready to start my life sans my parents. They’re desperately trying to save the business they took from the Davenports and have abandoned me at my grandmother’s house while they come up with a plan. Which is fine with me. When I run into Bella, I’m trying to fight the desire to fix what our parents broke. She’s distant and vulnerable. My protective instincts take control. If only I could get her to trust me, she’d see how much I want to help, not hurt.

My Review: 4 Stars

 

Logan and Bella are reunited--but it's not a good thing. Their parents are mortal enemies, which bleeds down to this couple. Logan's parents screwed Bella's parents over in the past, but we don't really get details about what went down. All the reader is privy to is the aftermath that resulted from that back stab and let me just say, it's quite brutal for Bella to endure.

The sweet romance that develops between these enemies is reminiscent of Romeo and Juliet and delivers an enjoyable high school romance infused with a lot of drama. I'm looking forward to more of these series, because I really liked the setting and characters and hope to see glimpses of them in future books.

Content: mild romance