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 Change of Fortune by Traci Hunter Abramson {Review}

A Change of Fortune by Traci Hunter Abramson

Paperback, 256 pages

Published June 1st 2020 by Covenant Communications 

Source: Library

    

Law student Brooke Sherman leads an enviable life, with an impressive education, a prestigious internship, and an ambitious boyfriend who any girl on campus would love to date. But one phone call shatters everything: her father, the optimistic man who insists on buying lottery tickets and dreaming big, has terminal cancer. Desperate to get home and predictably unable to rely on her boyfriend, Brooke finds an unlikely hero in the form of her classmate.

Jason Ramsey has had a crush on his study partner Brooke for months, but he’d never encroach on someone else’s girlfriend—even if the guy doesn’t treat her the way she deserves. But when he learns of Brooke’s father’s diagnosis, Jason steps up to help however he can. In the weeks and months following, Jason is Brooke’s rock, and after Brooke’s breakup, Jason becomes much more than just a friend. But even as they plan for a future together, things get complicated: Brooke’s father had a dying wish, that his daughter buy one last lottery ticket. She never dreamed that fulfilling that wish would jeopardize a future with the man she loves.

My Review: 5 Stars

I'm used to reading intense stories from this author, but the switch to something more soothing and gentle was perfect for the times we're living in right now.

Brooke and Jason are both law students and I loved the way their friendship was gradually built into something more, and I especially loved the way they were able to incorporate Brooke's father's hopes and dreams into their schooling. I loved these characters and their situation really made me think.

Right now, I love to escape into other people's lives for a time and there was something magical about this story that swept me in and held me captive (I read the whole thing in a day). While it's not super swoony and isn't purely light-hearted fluff, it that stayed with me for days and allowed me to forget the hard things in my own life for a time. Although there are some challenging things that the characters go through and even some trouble in paradise, this was exactly the kind of book my soul was craving.

Content: mild romance; death

The Danger with Fireworks (Holiday Romance #3) by Robin Daniels {Review}

The Danger with Fireworks (Holiday Romance #3) by Robin Daniels

Kindle Edition, 76 pages

Published June 26th 2020 

Source: Kindle Unlimited

 

   

 

Garland's love life took a rocky ride when his roommate started dating the girl he liked. It was inevitable, really. Somehow he always makes friends with "that guy"--the one who can get any girl he wants. It sucks, always feeling like the third wheel. So, when he's offered a position as a summer camp counselor, he jumps at the opportunity. It's the perfect chance to escape...in a place where he's not tied to best-friendship with a chick magnet.

However, from the moment he arrives, Garland realizes that the grass won't be any greener. He meets Chloe, a beautiful, energetic co-worker and they hit it off right away. Naturally, her ex--who's desperate to win her back--happens to be "that guy". Except this time it's different because there's nothing likable about Chloe's ex. And since there's no rule saying Garland has to be best buds with the resident lady bait, he decides it's time to challenge the status quo. For once, he's going to get the girl.

NOTE: This story can be read as a standalone, but it's better if the series is read in order.

 

My Review: 4 Stars

 

Years ago, before my first summer camp experience, I watched The Parent Trap and thought for sure that's how it would be. Although this story doesn't give many details from the campers perspective, but it was full of swoony encounters with the counselors. And it, too, wasn't much like the movie, hah.

 

Garland is a great guy--but kind of blind to what's in front of him--which leads to all sorts of misinterpretations and laughs, while drawing in a little angst. Chloe came across as an insincere flirt at first, but she quickly grew on me. It was fun to get to know her, Garland, and the other cast of characters, in this short, sweet, and fun summer romance. I would have loved to see things developed over the course of the entire summer because I simply didn't want it to end.

 

Daniels does a great job of incorporating this new adult romance in with humor, adventure, dancing, and love.   

Content: mild romance; mild language

27 Ways to Mend His Broken Heart by Shari L. Tapscott {Review}

27 Ways to Mend His Broken Heart by Shari L. Tapscott

Kindle Edition, 208 pages

Published September 2nd 2019 by Shari L. Tapscott 

Source: Kindle Unlimited

 

    

 

Heal him so you can steal him.

Kaylee:
Before I begin, I need to be clear about one thing: Kyle was mine first. My best friend since fourth grade. My shoulder to cry on. My everything. And then during our senior year of high school, Ava waltzed into the picture and won his heart.

Kyle:
I asked Ava to marry me. (Spoiler—she said no.)

How do you move on after five years? If it weren’t for Kaylee, I don’t know what I’d do. I know she was only trying to cheer me up when she concocted the idea of the list, but why not give it a try? Ava has certainly moved on.

Kaylee:
I’ve never seen Kyle so destroyed. The list was supposed to be a joke, something to make him smile. Then I realized what it really is—an opportunity. By the time I’m finished with him, Kyle will be over Ava, and he’ll be head-over-heels for yours truly.

Kyle:
I trust Kaylee, and if she thinks the list will help, then I’m all in. She’s not like other girls—she doesn't plot and scheme, or have ulterior motives. What you see is what you get. A guy couldn’t ask for a better best friend…

Author’s note: 27 Ways to Mend His Broken Heart is a steamy-clean adult romantic comedy with all the sizzle but no sex.

 

My Review: 5 Stars

 

This delightfully charming story reads like a romantic comedy and I could vividly picture every single page as though they were on the big screen in my imagination, and I was completely and fantastically hooked.

 

Kyle and Kaylee are best friends and she will do anything to help him move past heartache and right into her willing and waiting arms--and all through a list on a napkin. Let's just say that the road to true love can be paved with rocky bumps that mimic a torturous mountain bike trail in Sedona, Arizona, but the end result is oh-so-worth-it. 

 

These characters are easy to invest in and relate to, which caused me to devour this book as fast as a warm chocolate chip cookie (my favorite). The twists and turns, along with the steamy clean tension, allowed for a perfectly satisfying read and let me just say that I am eagerly awaiting more!

 

Content: mild+ romance  

The Problem with Cupid by Robin Daniels {Review}

The Problem with Cupid by Robin Daniels

Kindle Edition, 134 pages

Published January 30th 2020 by Bluefields 

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

    

After Evan's relationship fail during Christmas vacation, he heads back to college with a new plan. It's time for a break from dating. He doesn't want to quit the game completely though. Garland, his funny, lovable, down-to-earth roommate, is constantly talking to girls. And never asking them out.

Evan might be on a romantic hiatus but that doesn't mean he can't help his best friend find love. So, when Evan meets Abby in student government class, he trades in his player card for Cupid's bow. She and Garland would be perfect together and it doesn't take a rocket scientist to know they'll never hook up without help.

His matchmaking scheme works brilliantly. A little too brilliantly. By the time Garland and Abby start hitting it off, Evan has grown quite fond of her. That's the problem with playing Cupid. If you're not careful, you run the risk of getting shot by your own arrow.

My Review: 5 Stars

The sneak peek of Evan in The Trouble with Christmas whetted my appetite and I was so excited to get to know him better and get his story in this book.


Evan is a charmer, an only child, and a hilarious man. Women flock to him, but when he meets shy and mousy, Abby, in a college class one day, he decides she'd be the perfect woman for his roommate, Garland. Enter...Evan's role as the matchmaker!

I LOVED this story and adored the subtle message that the surface and first impressions aren't everything. I loved that Evan's light-hearted personality brought out the snark and sass in Abby and allowed her to zing him right and left, as it made for some very entertaining banter. The matchmaking attempts were both heartbreaking and sweet, as Evan learned to think of others and to keep his loyalty because bromance before romance, right?

Robin Daniels has a perfectly accurate way of shooting a love arrow straight to my heart. Her stories resonate with me and fill me full of all the happy feels. This one was a definite winner!

Content: mild+ romance

Until We Were More by Michelle Pennington {Review}

Until We Were More (Summer of First Kisses #4) 
by Michelle Pennington

Kindle Edition, 130 pages

Published November 14th 2019 

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

 

    

 

I had a list and he was not on it.

 
So far this summer, my three closest friends have all gotten kissed and found love. 

What did I get? Zane—the most conceited, annoying, and immature guy I knew. Sure, other girls might think he was totally hot, but that was because he didn't purposefully drive them them insane.

I must have been crazy to let him talk me into helping him with his crazy plan. Spending so much time with him had unexpected and dangerous consequences. 
 
In my defense, I had no idea that Zane could do more than make my eye twitch—that he'd make my pulse race and my heart pound. And as always, he knew exactly how to push my buttons. 

Thanks to him, my goal was was simply to get through this summer without getting kissed.
Because I was pretty sure if we did, we'd never be frenemies again. 

My Review: 3.5 Stars

I've loved getting to know this group of friends throughout this series, and I love how each book focuses on just one couple, while still allowing the reader a glimpse of beloved characters from previous stories. The beach setting is an especially great bonus.

Piper and Zane have a very salty relationship. They're always zinging, teasing, putting down, and annoying each other, but when push comes to shove, they're there for each other. When Zane comes up with a plan and needs Piper's help, she's hesitant, but little do they know what they're in for.

This whole idea of having a summer of first kisses was Piper's idea, so it was fun to see it all come back around for her to have her turn. However, this story had more angst and drama than the others and Zane and Piper seemed a little too opposite for this to work, but I'm still hoping for the best for them.

Content: mild romance

Love Sidelined by Tiffany Odekirk {Blog Tour Review and Giveaway}

Love Sidelined by Tiffany Odekirk

Kindle Edition, 312 pages

Published September 1st 2019 by Covenant Communications 

    

Jason Jennings made a tough call two years ago when he left behind his status as a hard-partying star quarterback in order to serve the Lord. Recently returned from a mission now, he’s ready to get back on the football field at UCAL. But despite turning his life around, his bad-boy reputation is proving hard to shake.

Allie Hollis is everything a cheerleader should be—beautiful, outgoing, and smart—but her brilliant smile hides a devastating secret. So when Jason begins to show interest in her, there’s no question: her answer is no.

Yet, in the face of Allie’s chilly response, Jason’s gentle persistence pays off, and a tentative friendship grows. Their chemistry is obvious, but Allie’s determination to steer clear of a relationship with Jason goes deeper than he realizes. When the truth of her painful history comes to light, the couple must decide whether they will remain on the sidelines or jump back into the game of love.

My Review: 5 Stars

I love a story that really shows how people can grow and change, especially through their life experiences as they come of age and mature. Jason is an up-and-coming football star, yet he turned his life around to serve a mission for his church and in doing so, grew tremendously, which completely turned his life around for the better. But try telling Allie that. A chance encounter was like throwing gasoline on the fire, but Allie just can't get over Jason's reputation. These two characters are opposite in so many ways, but they are grounded in things that matter and I loved watching them discover their true selves.

This author does a fantastic job of crafting an engaging story that was hard to escape from. I savored every interaction and even found myself wanting to give Jason and Allie advice. The little snippets of thoughts and letters at the beginning of each chapter added so much more dimension to the story and I loved how the reader was treated to alternating points-of-view. I was able to discover so many deeper layers to these characters from these tactics.This book played like a movie in my head and I loved it!

There are a lot of instances, situations, and lingo specific to The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, and while the story is still very inspiring, it might be a big confusing if you're not familiar with the talk.

At the end of the day, I did not want to leave these characters. I loved being immersed in their lives for a few hours and hope there's more to come.

Content: mild romance (vague talk of past situations); moderate+ religion elements; very mild violence (talk of a past incident)

Giveaway:

a Rafflecopter giveaway

The Friend Zone by Sariah Wilson {Review}

The Friend Zone by Sariah Wilson

Kindle Edition

Expected publication: June 11th 2019 by Montlake Romance 

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

    

Disgraced college quarterback Logan Hunt was on his way to NFL stardom when he messed up big-time. Now the Texas star player with a bad temper has a new option: Seattle’s EOL College—as in End of the Line, to his fellow misfit recruits. It’s Logan’s last chance. If he can follow the rules. No parties, no fighting, no swearing, and oh, no dating the coach’s daughter, Jess. Simple. Yeah, right. For Logan, there has never been a rule he’s more tempted to break.

The deal is “just friends.” The pretty, confident, and fiercely smart math whiz is fine with pizza, tutoring, and keeping Logan in line. But the closer Jess gets, the more receptive she is to his warm heart and spirit—not to mention his irresistible off-field passes. With defenses down, they’re both heading into the danger zone.

It’s more than thrilling. It’s love. It’s also a game changer that could sideline Logan’s NFL goals—and more important, a future with Jess. But dreams are worth fighting for, right?

My Review: 5 Stars

"Trust me when I say we will never, ever date. Ever."

I can always count on Sariah Wilson to deliver a swoony romance with humor and this one didn't disappoint. This is Logan's last chance to play football and his new coach has sooo many rules. Break one? You're out! No second chances. Jess, the coach's daughter is so tempted and as his math tutor, they both agree to stay friends--just friends. 

Jess hasn't ever been as tempted by a man as she is by Logan, but friends it is. She will not be the reason he's kicked out of school and the football program. But try as they might, the sparks ignite and threaten to rage like an out-of-control forest fire.

I don't think I've ever felt such an underlying passion, much like an impending volcanic eruption, with a "just friends" story. The chemistry is sizzling and had me yearning for that first kiss to happen already. But what I loved the most is that Logan and Jess build a strong and unbreakable friendship, as they strive to keep the rules. I loved the way they put each other first and tried to help each other accomplish their goals, and I especially loved the swoon. This one is definitely another winner! 

And just for the record, these characters are the best and I'm hoping that Bash gets a story (hint, hint).

Content: mild+ romance (some innuendo, implied/attempted rape, kissing)  

Maybe It's You by Christy Hayes {Review}

Maybe It's You by Christy Hayes
Kindle Edition, 294 pages

Published February 4th 2019 by CAH LLC 

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

 

    

 

Reagan Bellamy’s neighbor is everything she never wanted. Despite her best efforts to ignore him and fly under his radar, Dash Carter refuses to wither under her stare and leave her alone. So what if he’s totally hot? Who cares if her roommates think he’s adorable? Reagan’s too busy to waste time on a loser with musical pipe dreams. Between classes, studies, and her need to stay ahead of the game, she’s got too much on her plate to give him the time of day.

Dash Carter is a man on a mission. He’s done a total 180 and for the first time in a long time feels optimistic about the future. He’s clean, he’s on a good path, and he’s surrounded himself with people who make life better, not worse. Unfortunately, his neighbor—the one girl who’s always piqued his interest—still thinks he’s a slacker, bothering Dash more than it should.

Acting on an opportunity to show Reagan he’s a changed man, Dash inadvertently puts her in a difficult position with her new boss and sends her down a path she hasn’t the time or inclination to pursue. Desperate to make things right, Dash becomes more invested in her life despite warnings from his mentor to not get involved with someone whose beliefs don’t match his own.

Reagan’s not sure what it says about her that she’d rather deal with Dash the deadbeat than Dash the Bible thumper. The more she digs her heels in against the religious freaks she’s forced to interact with, the more she begins to question everything she’s built her life upon. When the tide begins to turn in Reagan’s heart and her worldview flips upside down, trusting God means putting everything on the line, including her heart.

My Review: 3 Stars

 

It's refreshing to read a new adult story that's centered around one's faith and finding God, but this one was almost too centered on that. The book begins with Reagan stumbling home after a night of heavy drinking and sleeping around and I wasn't too sure where it was going to head. A long, meticulous process of change results from that night and Reagan finds herself on the path of change after her neighbor, Dash, shows her some kindness and she realizes he's not the type of person he once was. While I did enjoy her path, it was a little too heavy for me at times. I love to read to escape and to enjoy a fluffy read and I do enjoy some meatier topics in my books, but this one almost focused on the religious aspects too much for me.

I love character growth and this one powerfully delivered. Dash is a man with deep convictions and restraints, especially given his talents and career path. Reagan is driven and stubborn and her background drives her to become even more rigid in her passions, yet God can change all, as is very apparent with these characters. No past is too sinful to overcome.

Content: mild+ romance (implied sleeping around, kissing, light innuendo); very heavy religion

One Little Kiss by Kaylee Baldwin {Review}

One Little Kiss by Kaylee Baldwin

Kindle Edition

Published August 13th 2018 by Sweetly Us Press 

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

   

Tessa has her future planned to perfection. First get into medical school and become a doctor like everyone else in her family—despite her queasiness around blood. Second meet and marry someone who is just as successful as her brother—the new, handsome doctor in her ward will be just right. And last, prove to her brother that, despite what he thinks, she has it all together. Easy, right? Except that she’s just been called to be the ward road show director for the upcoming stake singles activity, a distraction she doesn’t need. And when a mix-up means that she’s partnered with her bug-eating, seventies dressing home teacher? It’s a disaster with a capital D, and she knows that no one in her family can ever find out about this.

As a PhD student studying insects, Henry White has had his fair share of girls try to change him into someone more socially acceptable—including his ex- fiancé. When his sister convinces him to join the singles ward for his last year of school, he decides to play up his oddness in order to keep the singles at a distance. When he begins to work with Tessa on the road show, he finds that she’s managed to get past his defenses. One little stage kiss is all it takes to make him question everything. But then his ex-fiancé comes home from her mission with one goal in mind: win Henry back, no matter what it takes.

Tessa is soon faced with a choice. Go for the perfect life she’s always pushed herself to have, or find the courage to look past appearances and figure out what she really wants.

My Review: 5 Stars

I think everyone can understand Tessa to some degree. She lives to make her family proud and about kills herself in the process. Everything she does is to please them, especially her snotty brother, Jenkins. I could have smacked that dude--a few times. But do you know who is disappointed when you don't live up to high expectations? Only the one setting them, as Tessa learned.

Backing up a bit, Tessa is on track to becoming a doctor and her new home teacher, Logan, is the perfect guy for her--because he'll win her family's approval. That first meeting with Logan and Henry was absolutely hilarious and unexpected, and right away, I was endeared to dear old Henry.

Their roadshow, a modern spin on the Princess and the frog, was so perfect and fun and really brought out a whole display of feelings and true colors. 

In a class case of opposites-attract, this story completely captivated me, especially the characters. I loved the message of following your dreams...and your heart.


Content: mild romance; mild religion (not preachy)

The Lovely Deep (The Mer Song Trilogy #1) by Michelle Pennington {Review}

The Lovely Deep (The Mer Song Trilogy #1) 
 by Michelle Pennington

Kindle Edition, 287 pages

Published August 15th 2018 

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

  

She's fallen for a human,
but how can you love one man while stealing another?

Narissa's not just any mermaid. She's a siren.

She has the power to lure men into the sea, but all she wants is to live peacefully with them on land. Unfortunately, the mers are evolving and they're depending on her for human mates to keep their bloodlines pure.

Rebellion burns in Narissa's heart, especially when her mother commands her to do her duty and return to the depths. She knows a way out, but asking a favor of Poseidon is too great a risk.

When she falls for River, a man who makes her feel wanted and whole, she decides it's worth the risk. But her choice pulls River unwillingly into her world where greedy mermaids hunt, seas rage, monsters lurk...

And her enemy controls them all.

Can she save her people without losing the man she loves?

My Review: 5 Stars

Sold! I am sold on this series! Mermaids are so fascinating, but one with a siren's power is even more so. I absolutely fell in love with this story and with the author's creative way of incorporating mermaids into a modern world, which opened up my mind and imagination to hundreds of possibilities. And this cover is as gorgeous as the book!

Set in Florida, the tropical setting lured my interest from the start and the murky, shadowy world of the mers was a little disconcerting. Pennington does a fantastic job of establishing fears, love, and emotion with this tale. 

One of the things that I loved best about this book was the characters. Narissa is a sweet, spunky girl and her passion and selflessness really resonated with me. River is utterly charming and persistent, and his protective nature bound him to my heart. The whole cast of supporting characters were vivid and lifelike. The romance has a touch of sorrow woven through the swoon and it really grabbed me in its clutches. I was definitely swooning!

This is one book that I couldn't read fast enough and I'm SO happy it's the start of a new trilogy because I'm ready for more.

Content: mild+ romance (swoony, some light innuendo); mild violence

The Windfall App by Teresa Richards {Blog Tour Review and Giveaway}

Tour Schedule

The Windfall App by Teresa Richards
Published July 27th 2018 by Evernight Teen
Source: I received a complimentary copy. All opinions expressed are my own and were voluntarily given.

  

Marina Berghman is a classical piano prodigy with parents who’ve had her life mapped out since she was in diapers. But their plan leaves no room for her secret love of alternative rock, or Sean, the edgy guitarist who recently moved to town.

When Marina buys a lottery ticket on her eighteenth birthday via the new Windfall app, she expects it to be nothing more than a rite of passage. But she wins—the grand prize of five thousand dollars a day, for life. Suddenly given the means to break free from a life she never felt in control of, she’s quick to cut her family ties and turn her back on everything she knows.

But her lottery win was no lucky break. Her prize comes with strings attached, and Marina soon finds herself at the center of someone else’s life or death game. When she discovers evidence linking her dad to the intrigue, she turns to Sean for help. But he’s harboring secrets of his own.

Now Marina must sort out who to trust and who’s pulling the strings, before her prize turns into a noose.

My Review: 5 Stars

Have you ever wondered what it would be like to win the lottery? Marina buys a ticket to celebrate her 18th birthday and ends up winning a lot of money and I enjoyed the way that Richards develops a cast of charming characters, an entertaining mystery, and a plot full of decisions, fun, greed, and love (not necessarily in that order). 

Marina is quirky and has her own style, but she's never felt truly free to fly her own course. Not until she has the money to do so and goes against her father's wishes of keeping it. I love her savvy, yet somewhat naive, character and I especially enjoyed her budding romance with the slightly mysterious guitarist from LA, Sean. He's full of adventure and fun, and really helps Marina find her true potential.

I loved the setting of San Francisco and seeing it through the eyes of this bold young adult. I wish I really could have heard the impromptu jam session. The mystery really wrapped the whole story up in a satisfying package. I hope that Teresa Richards continues to venture in this genre.

Content: mild language; mild violence; mild romance 

Giveaway:

Teresa Richards will announce the winner of the YA book bundle on her social media accounts (IG, FB, and twitter) within a week after the drawing closes. The giveaway for the books pictured (Lois Lane--Fallout by Gwenda Bond, Lola and the Boy Next Door by Stephanie Perkins, and The Windfall App by Teresa Richards) is open to US addresses only. Internationally, ebooks will be sent instead. You can click on the "Tour Schedule" at the top of the post and enter at each stop.

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#Moonstruck (#Lovestruck #2) by Sariah Wilson {Review}

#Moonstruck (#Lovestruck #2) by Sariah Wilson

Kindle Edition, 320 pages

Published July 17th 2018 by Montlake Romance 

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

   

Over one million “likes”—but only one of them matters.
After pop star Ryan De Luna praises Maisy Harrison’s YouTube cover of his classic hit, he offers Maisy and her fledgling band the opportunity of a lifetime: to be his opening act.

Music may be Maisy’s life, but she has one ground rule: never date a musician. That goes double for a heartbreaker like Ryan. If only she didn’t feel so vulnerable to his larger-than-life charm. And maybe now more than ever, when he asks for her help to shake off his playboy image. How can she resist playing the part of his fake girlfriend for the duration of the tour?

Ryan’s never met anyone like Maisy. She sees past all the star-studded fame and treats him like any other guy. And the more time they spend together, the more he finds himself falling for her. Now he’d like to make their imaginary fling an IRL thing. But can he convince her to take a chance and trust him with her heart?

My Review: 5 Stars

Maisy has had a hard, but good, life and I love how real she is. Because of her past, she has one rule and it just may become a broken when Ryan the charmer enters her life. I love how they meet and how they get to know each other at first and wow, do the sparks fly throughout this one! I almost melted into a puddle of goo on a few occasions. My favorite books involve sizzling hot fake romances, a whole cast of fantastic characters, and witty, hilarious banter, so let's just say I was in heaven with this one.

Maisy is tough and has to be with three overprotective older brothers, but she's also sweet, sensitive, insecure, and a bit snarky on the inside. The changes she goes through as she grows up and accepts more responsibility are tender and heartwarming. As for Ryan, that man could charm the horns off of a raging bull. I don't know how Maisy could keep him at arms length for so long!

I've decided that this author has a great recipe for writing romances that are just as satisfying to me as a plate of decadent brownies and I'm craving more ASAP!


Content: mild+, swoony, steamy-clean romance (kissing, some innuendo)

Super Daisy by Jennifer Griffith {Review}

Super Daisy by Jennifer Griffith

Kindle Edition

Published May 16th 2018 

Source: I received a copy, which had no influence on my opinions

 

 

 

Super powers? Super useless.
At seventeen, disgraced former beauty queen Daisy just wants to escape her viral-video past. The flaming baton that caught the stage and a judge’s pants on fire also burned up her dreams of someday becoming a serious TV journalist.
Now Daisy faces a dead-end summer job in her dead-end hometown. The only cool guy in Prairie Grass, Cliff Calloway, doesn’t even know she exists, and her arch nemesis is determined to keep it that way.
Then lightning strikes! Daisy crashes her jeep and a vision swiftly unfolds. “You, Daisy Blaine, have been selected for The Power.” In one fell swoop everything changes, but not for the better. Getting turned into a superhero by a goddess isn’t all it’s cracked up to be, especially when you want to keep a low profile.

Super Daisy is another fun escape from #1 best-selling YA author Jennifer Griffith.

My Review: 4 Stars

Sometimes it's fun to escape into a completely fantastical story. When I was younger, I used to like to imagine that I could gain a few superpowers and Daisy finds herself in possession of a few of these. In a fast-paced, almost bizarre at times, adventure, Daisy lives out any superhero lover's fantasy. In fact, her life is literally like a dream for awhile. While highly entertaining, I wish it could have been a little longer and not so rushed, but it still is very enjoyable.


Told in first person, Daisy comes across as a likable character and her strengths, weaknesses, and thoughts are worn on her sleeve. She is easy to cheer for and develops into an everyday heroine. This is a really fun and unique story and I hope there are more like it in the works.

Content: very mild violence; very mild romance

When the Clouds Lift by Laura L. Walker {Review}

When the Clouds Lift (A When Love Happens Novel)
by Laura L. Walker

ebook, 1st, 342 pages

Published December 12th 2017 by Laura L. Walker 

Having been the class clown through most of her teenage years, eighteen-year-old Ashley Sweeney is ready to leave her family, friends, and reputation behind and start a new life in sunny California. But Ashley's determination to show her dad and stepmom that she can handle herself in the big wide world falls apart when she becomes the victim of a mean-spirited prank. To make matters worse, the one guy she never wanted to see again has come to her rescue.

Collin Nichols wanted to serve an honorable LDS mission from the time he was old enough to know what one was. But when the former high school football star's missionary service comes to a crashing halt, he's suddenly the most unpopular guy in Forest Meadow, the small LDS town he grew up in. Now, to avoid his parents' disapproval and awkward stares from people who used to be his friends, he gladly accepts Ashley's dad's plea to help him bring her home safely. If only he can get Ashley to see things his way . . . and if only he can forget the electric kiss they shared back in high school.

But getting home is only half the battle. Ashley soon is caught up in the craziness of college life and Collin is forced to stand on the sidelines and watch as she receives attention from a returned missionary who seems like the perfect match for her. But when an unexpected visitor from her past shows up on her doorstep, will she need to be rescued once again? And when the clouds finally lift, will they have formed a new love in their mist?

When the Clouds Lift is the first installment in Laura L. Walker's new LDS romance series, When Love Happens. Enjoy the beautiful setting in central Idaho as three friends find the love of their lives--for eternity.  

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My Review: 3 Stars

I don't think I've ever cringed so hard through a book. Ashley is very immature, naive, and awkward and it's especially apparent that she rarely thinks before acting, which leaves her in some very interesting and embarrassing situations. She knows it, but she honestly can't control her impulsive self (in many ways) and it made me feel bad for her, but it also made it hard for me to connect to her.

Collin is Ashley's step-brother's best friend and has his own issues, but he is somehow able to both overlook her shortcomings and overlook her--until she's suddenly thrust into the spotlight. He's really good at rescuing people, especially Ashley.

It is refreshing to read a clean new adult fluff story, but it really focuses on the fluff. Yes, there are conflicts needing to find resolution, but it never gets very deep and stays in the clouds. The chemistry isn't tight, but it is entertaining. The familial relationships are kind of awkward, going from one extreme to another, and I wanted more of a bond with at least some of them. The superficial flavor of the book is a great reflection of the main character's personality.

If you're looking for a light, silly, and drama-filled story, this is a great one to read for pure entertainment.

Content: mild romance; moderate religious reference, specific to LDS.

*I received a copy, which didn't influence my opinion in any way*

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#Starstruck by Sariah Wilson {Blog Tour Review + Giveaway}

#Starstruck by Sariah Wilson

Kindle Edition, 320 pages

Publication: January 16th 2018 by Montlake Romance 

“You’ve done better.”

With one uncharacteristically sassy tweet to her longtime celebrity crush, Zoe Miller’s life turns upside down.

Ultrahot A-lister Chase Covington doesn’t just respond to Zoe’s tweet, he does the unthinkable: he messages Zoe directly. Now she must decide between walking away or meeting her crush in person.

Chase knows better than to trust anyone from the Internet, but Zoe’s saucy challenge has totally caught his interest—and her girl-next-door personality is keeping it. He’s been burned enough to know he needs to keep his heart close. But his feelings for Zoe might be a lot more than just an online flirtation. He just has to convince her…

When the press gets wind of Zoe and Chase’s secret relationship, their romance turns into tabloid headlines. Will they be able to hold on to their Hollywood love story?

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My Review: 5 Stars

Anyone with an interest with celebrities will get this one, especially the inner fan girl inside. I remember being a young teen, obsessed with certain actors/singers and just knowing that they'd fall for me, for sure, if I ever had the change to meet them or to interact with them. Zoe is one lucky girl!

One tweet. That's all it took for Zoe to capture actor Chase Covington's attention. I love the lengths he went to in order to keep his private life private. All of the nerves, anxieties, angst, insecurities, butterflies, attraction, connections, and chemistry are wrapped up into one nice tidy book and let me tell you, this one is a zinger. I could feel everything. In fact, I even found myself talking about this book and not mentioning who-was-seeing-who for fear that I'd be breaching a confidentiality agreement or inviting the paparazzi to storm my house. Seriously. I was that engaged.

I'm all about connections and I adore the strong friendship of Zoe and Lexie; I loved Zoe's relationship with her siblings; and Zoe's romance with Chase make me swoon. This book keeps that tiny flame of hope alive for every "normal" girl.

My only complaint with this book is that I now have another book hangover. :)

Content: moderate romance--lots of swoony kissing; some talk of sex (not graphic); some innuendo

*I received a copy, which had no influence on my thoughts and opinions*

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Buy Links:

  

About the Author:

 
Bestselling author Sariah Wilson has never jumped out of an airplane, never climbed Mt. Everest, and is not a former CIA operative. She has, however, been madly, passionately in love with her soulmate and is a fervent believer in happily ever afters--which is why she writes romance. She has published many happily ever after stories. She grew up in southern California, graduated from Brigham Young University (go Cougars!) with a semi-useless degree in history, and is the oldest of nine (yes, nine) children. She currently lives with the aforementioned soulmate and their four children in Utah, along with three tiger barb fish, a cat named Tiger, and a recently departed hamster that is buried in the backyard (and has nothing at all to do with tigers).

Her website is www.sariahwilson.com. 

Goodreads  ||  Twitter  ||  Website  ||  Facebook  ||  Amazon

Blog tour schedule:

January 15 - Bookworm Nation / KJ’s Book Nook

January 16 - Literary Time Out / Getting Your Read On / Katie’s Clean Book Collection /  

January 17 - My Book a Day / Wishful Endings / LDS Writer Mom

January 18 - Empower Moms / Why Not? Because I Said So

January 19 - Bookworm Lisa / Min Reads and Reviews

Giveaway:

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