World's Worst Boyfriend (Fake It #3) by Carina Taylor {Review}

World's Worst Boyfriend (Fake It #3) by Carina Taylor

Kindle Edition, 263 pages

Publication: April 27th 2021 

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

 

 

 

A romantic comedy adventure


Fletcher is the “World’s Worst Boyfriend” and I have the trophy to prove it—along with the consolation gift card I’ve already spent.

Entering him into the anonymous contest was cathartic and eye opening. It’s obvious I need to end this farce of a relationship… so, I do.

Too bad I’m still comparing every man I meet to Fletcher.
Too bad I can’t get him out of my mind—or my house, for that matter, with the way he’s always stopping by to ‘fix’ something.
And it’s especially too bad that I’m learning not everything is as it seems, and that maybe, just maybe, Fletcher had a good reason for his actions. (Although, there is no justification for the moldy laundry.)

What’s a girl to do? He says he’ll explain everything soon. But am I ready to face that explanation? What if he’s really not the worst—what if I am?
 

A romantic comedy adventure to make you laugh out loud!

 

   

My Review: 4 Stars

I've been seeing this one all over the place and I'm a total sucker for fake relationships and romantic comedies. Jumping right in, I was in for some big surprises...and they weren't at all bad! First off, this isn't really a fake relationship story, but there are fake parts to the relationship. Secondly, this is a RomCom with a twist! Like a cola with a shock of lime and coconut lurking within the cup. The suspense angle not only helped propel the plot, but it was as refreshing as an ice cold drink and had me eagerly gulping it's contents.

Fletcher was yet another surprise! He was a mysterious character in one of the other books in the series and I can't even say how much I adored him in this one. I loved that Fletch and Saidy were already together and the events that happen to earn Fletcher a "prestigious" nomination were hilarious.

Not only did this story have laughs, but there were some intense moments and swoon that make this book stand out from the rest. Taylor has a knack for bringing multiple elements in and tying them up in a neat little bow.

Content: mild romance; mild moments of danger/peril; mild+ language

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

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

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

Kindle Edition, 192 pages

Published October 22nd 2020
Source: Kindle Unlimited

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

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

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

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

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

 

  

My Review: 5 Stars

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

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

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

Content: mild romance 

Second First Kiss: A Romantic Comedy by Jennifer Griffith {Review}

Second First Kiss: A Romantic Comedy by Jennifer Griffith

Kindle Edition, 191 pages

Publication: March 17th 2021 

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

A torching kiss on a long-ago high school dare just might flare up again.

Back in high school, Jasher Hotchkiss and Sage Everton shared one perfect kiss at a kissing booth.

Now, they've both returned to their hometown of Mendon. Bachelor Jasher is there against his will as the reluctant new general surgeon. Widowed Sage is the hospital’s underappreciated nurse anesthetist.

They see each other daily.

Neither has forgotten that mind-blowing kiss.

However, if Jasher is universally loathed by the town's citizens and Sage carries a potentially lethal dating curse, is there any chance at a second first kiss?

Laugh and swoon as these two medical professionals get coerced into dating each other in Kissing Dr. Hotchkiss. Read this fun, sassy romantic comedy set in a small town hospital with quirky characters and hilarious dialogue and situations.

Jennifer Griffith is the Swoony Award-winning author of hilarious romances that are like cotton candy for your soul.

Kissing Dr. Hotchkiss is set in the same world as Jennifer’s Forever Home Romances and her Christmas House Romances series. Grab them all for sweet escapes!

 

   

 

My Review: 5 Stars

 

I can always count on this author to deliver a sweet, funny, and utterly swoony story and it totally hit the spot! And one little hidden gem is that the setting has the same name as my hometown. Although it's different in many ways, I feel like I spent a little time back at home and it was so tender.

Jasher is back and the town has a grudge against him, but the silver lining is working with his former teenage crush, Sage. I adored these characters so much! The medical scene was intriguing and fun--it was almost like watching an edited version of a popular medical TV show unfold in my mind. 

 

The chemistry was flammable and watching it slowly ignite as Jasher and Sage participated in the wonderful experiences that Mendon had to offer was the icing on this delightfully sweet story. All I can say is, Hot Kisses from Dr. Hot Kiss...

 

Content: mild romance; mild violence/medical descriptions

Dashing into Disaster by Rachel John {Review}

Dashing into Disaster (An Austen Inspired Romantic Comedy, Book 4) by Rachel John

ebook, 178 pages

Publication: March 15th 2021 

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

 

Elinor Dashwood has found the perfect job. There’s only one little catch… her boss.

Edward’s gorgeous, kind, and taken. Well, maybe. There’s something odd about his engagement to the town’s sweetheart, and it seems like he wants Elinor to figure it out.

Nope. Detective Elinor is not on the case. She’ll just admire him from afar like every other sensible person with an unrequited crush.

Edward Ferrars was just fine pretending to be engaged until Elinor moved to town, started working for him, and decided to invade his thoughts. Now his fake fiancée has set her sights on Elinor as enemy number one, and Elinor is the last person who deserves to be called a homewrecker.

He’s ready to call off this out-of-control favor, but if he unleashes the wrath of his fake fiancée, will Elinor be along for the ride?

Dive into this modern take on Jane Austen’s Sense and Sensibility with all the characters you know and love.

  

My Review: 5 Stars  

Moving to a new town when you're down on your luck isn't easy, but I loved watching Elinor and her mom and sisters settle in. A hilarious first encounter with Edward only triggered a series of chance meetings that left me swooning and smiling. There's a mystery surrounding this handsome man and it was so entertaining to watch what resulted from the big secret. But the biggest surprise was the amount of magnetism that drew me right in and left me feeling head-over-heels in love with this charming story.

John pulls off a very pleasant modern rendition of an Austen classic and I was attracted to the plot and wonderful characters from start to finish. This story was light, flirty, and silly fun, yet it was also grounded, if that makes sense. I haven't read the rest of the series, but you can bet they're in my TBR pile now!

Content: mild romance

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.

Give Me One Good Reason (Shaped by Love #4) by Michelle Pennington {Review}

Give Me One Good Reason (Shaped by Love #4) by Michelle Pennington

Kindle Edition, 243 pages

Published February 4th 2021
Source: I received a complimentary copy. All opinions expressed are my own and were voluntarily given

No calling dibs on dream guys.

Why do short girls always get the tall guys?

Don't they know that those of us who more closely resemble giraffes than dainty little wood sprites should have first pick of any guy who isn't eye level with our cleavage?

But what happens when the embodiment of all my tall-girl fantasies gets hired to work at Booms and Nibbles?

My short best friend snags a date with him first.

What do I get to do? Butt heads with him all day every day as I try to educate him on selling women's underwear, that's what. He's opinionated, blunt, and... Sigh. It's no use. He's amazing. Especially when his beautiful brown eyes glint at me from behind those nerdy glasses—sending messages that both confuse and captivate me.

Well, Adam had better fortify those walls he keeps putting up because I've always been the type to go after what I want. And my sights are set on his heart.

Get ready to laugh and flutter and possibly even squeal a little. This is Angela's story and things are about to get fun. Don't hesitate. Grab your copy now.

 

   

 

My Review: 5 Stars

 

There are a lot of things that I adore about this series but one of the biggest is the message that all women are beautiful and important, no matter their shapes or sizes. Angela is tall--very tall--and because of that, she endures many comments and jokes, which leads her to feel insecure about her height, going as far to call herself a giraffe. It seems that we always want the opposite of what we have, but landing a job at Booms and Nibbles was perfect for her and she excels at what she does. 

 

Angela is the type of character that I want to be best friends with. Not only is she sweet and fun, but she is passionate about her interests and loyal to her friends. Working closely with the new guy causes the butterflies to swarm. Adam is a great character too--hilarious, sometimes clueless, easily embarrassed, yet kind. I loved catching glimpses of past characters and I'm settling right into this company, so please don't take it away any time soon!

 

Pennington has found a solid niche with this romantic comedy series. I was on the treadmill reading and I was snorting and laughing so hard at a few different parts--I almost lost my footing! The unexpected moments of humor, stolen glances, burgeoning friendship, and swoon were captured perfectly and the nod to Korean dramas set my heart afire. Lucky for me, I know for sure at least one more book will be coming and I cannot wait!

Content: mild+ romance (kissing, some light innuendo, talk of underwear since that's the type of company B&N is)

All's Fair in Love and Blood by Jennifer Peel {Review}

All's Fair in Love and Blood by Jennifer Peel

Kindle Edition, 347 pages

Published January 26th 2021 

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

 

They are both out for blood, but could it end in love?

Scarlett Armstrong and Kane Hudson have a tangled past involving not only their families but their own failed love affair. Now, eight years later, to make things more complicated, they’re both in the running to become the next CEO of Scarlett’s family’s business, Armstrong Labs, a privately held blood plasma company. It all comes down to who presents the best business plan to the board of directors.

For Scarlett, it’s a matter of continuing her family’s legacy and hoping that her father will be proud of her once and for all. After all, she’s spent her entire life pushing her own dreams aside preparing for this role. And perhaps she would like a little sweet revenge against the man who stole her heart and never gave it back. Kane, on the other hand, is determined to reach his goal of becoming the CEO of a Fortune 500 company before his forty-fifth birthday and proving to Scarlett she’s meant to follow her own dreams.

But things don’t go according to plan for either Scarlett or Kane when they realize that perhaps they’re fighting for the wrong thing. With love and blood on the line, which one will come out on top?

    

My Review: 5 Stars

Wowza! Peel has a talent of bringing her characters to life, but this one takes the cake. Reading All's Fair in Love and Blood was like devouring an entire delicious and rich German chocolate cake (with all that glorious frosting) in one sitting. I was blown away by this love story and had all the heart eyes for Kane. And I mean ALL the heart eyes. That man was pure sugary sweet perfection.

This book is divided into two parts and each was completely necessary to paint the full, beautiful picture of Kane's and Scarlett's tale. I loved how each chapter was named, as they gave the reader a hint of what was to come, and because of those hints, I could NOT put it down. Life is all about timing, experiences, and things coming together when they're meant to, and not only does Peel write an amazing story that showcases those spots in life, but she delivers it with humor and lots of breathtaking swoon.

The romantic, work, and familial relationships are complex, which drew me right in. Kane is the most supportive and charming character and Scarlett is the most persistent, driven, and giving woman. Their scorching chemistry was an addictive love potion that kept me anticipating more. Give me an impressive plot with fantastic characters and some mad swoon and I'm all in! Peel is in trouble because this one is going to be hard to beat. 

Content: mild+ romance; mild+ language

The Off Limits Rule (It Happened in Nashville #1) by Sarah Adams {Review}

The Off Limits Rule (It Happened in Nashville #1) by Sarah Adams

Kindle Edition

Expected publication: January 4th 2021 

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

 

 

 

I have found rock bottom. It’s here, moving in with my older brother because I’m too broke to afford to live on my own. But that’s okay because we’ve always been close and I think I’m going to have fun living with him again.

That is until I meet Cooper…

Turns out, my brother has very strong opinions on the idea of me dating his best friend and is dead set against it. According to him, Cooper is everything I should stay away from: flirtatious, adventurous, non-committal, and freaking hot. (I added that last part because I feel like you need the whole picture.) My brother is right, though. I should stay away from Cooper James and his pretty blue eyes. He’s the opposite of what I need right now.

Nah—Who am I kidding? I’m going for him.

 

   

 

My Review: 5 Stars

 

What's better than laughing and swooning throughout an adorably cute book? Not much! Lucy is down on her luck and when her older brother rescues her and she meets his best friend, interesting sparks and chemistry ignite. When a meet cute has you squirming, cringing, and blushing, you know it's good. And honestly, this forbidden relationship had me feeling like a sneaky teen, with all the awkwardness and emotion. 

Lucy is a very relatable character who is full of quirks and a big heart. Although she wallows for a time in her bad situations, she latches on to hope. Cooper is the most adorable, sweet, and perfect protagonist ever! I love the way their relationship evolved throughout the story and showcased their awesome personalities. 

Adams is spot on with the swoon, banter, and humor, and I just couldn't get enough. I was plopped right smack in the middle of an ultimate escape and cherished every single page of it.

Content: mild+ romance

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

The Billionaire's (Not So) Fake Engagement by Kimberly Krey {Review}

 

The Billionaire's (Not So) Fake Engagement (Benton Brothers #5) by Kimberly Krey

Kindle Edition

Publication: October 15th 2020

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

   

One little nod.

Just one simple nod under pressure and Burke found himself fake-engaged to a gorgeous country girl who needed a lift.

She cries about cats dying that aren't even hers.
She turns old furniture into beautiful pieces of art.
And she tells her aging grandpa that she's engaged so he'll stop hooking her up with odd guys who come through town.

The crazy thing is, Burke might actually be falling in love with her. 

My Review: 5 Stars

The cap on the Benton Brothers series has been placed and it's perfection! Burke is the half brother of the famous family and their acceptance of him is heartening, but what really grasped my heart was unique Justine and the way she lives in the moment and seizes the day, which was apparent from their very first encounter. This meet-cute had me laughing out loud, and things only got better from there. 

This fake engagement story set in a small town settled right into my heart--I laughed, I swooned, and even teared up. Both of these characters just want to find their place in life, and to love and be loved. Although their relationship was build on lies, omissions, and half-truths, the intent was pure and I couldn't get enough of the humor and swoon as this sweet story developed.

Ms. Krey does a great job of finalizing this series, tying it all together, while allowing this installment to stand alone. I love her ability to write a romance that's "clean without losing the steam" as these are my favorite kinds of love stories. I loved everything about this one!

Content: mild romance

Miss Trailerhood (Fake It #2) by Carina Taylor {Review}

 

Miss Trailerhood (Fake It #2) by Carina Taylor

Kindle Edition

Published September 30th 2020 

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

 

     

 

She disappeared from our lives without a word. I never expected to run into her at a Quik Mart in between jobs. What’s a guy to do when he finds his first crush? Follow her home, of course, and remind her of all the things she’s missing.

I didn’t know that holding onto Riley would involve living in a trailer park. Or keeping it a secret from my sister—her best friend.

Riley is completely at home with lawn-mower racing, beer-guzzling exhibitionists. She doesn’t think I can handle it.

Well, I’m going to show Miss Trailerhood that I’m here to stay—no matter what trailer-park mayhem she puts me through.

Love is patient, love is kind, love means buying a single wide.

 

My Review: 5 Stars

 

Oh, how I wish I could think of zingers on the fly and be all full of spontaneous wit and banter, but alas, that's not my talent. I always think of things to say way after the fact and they're never as clever as I'd like them to be. However, that is so not the case with this delightful cast of unlikely characters. 

 

Riley, who is guardian to her teenage half sister, Wren, and Nate, her best friend's brother, and their quirky trailer park neighbors had me practically rolling around on the floor in laughter. I was fascinated and utterly entertained from start to finish. I adored everything from trailer park life to the Instagram influencing account to the lawn mower races to the persistent drops of romance that spun around in my heart and mind like a pesky fly. 

The bewitching romance was the icing on the cake for this story full of quips and antics. I couldn't get enough and I'm so happy that I've found a fantastic new author to read.

Content: mild romance; vague talk of past abandonment and drug use.

How to Not Fall for Your Best Friend by Meg Easton {Review}

 

 

How to Not Fall for Your Best Friend by Meg Easton

Kindle Edition, 194 pages

Published 29 September 2020 by Mountain Heights Publishing 

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

 

 

  

 

Seven days. Thirteen dates with thirteen different people. One friendly competition between best friends (who are definitely not dating each other).

Peyton Abernathy wants to get married, and she’s ready to do something drastic about it. Like getting over her fear of making bad choices. She wants someone responsible, adventurous, resourceful, and inspiring. Someone who feels like peace and acceptance and home.

Someone exactly like her best friend, Max Peyton.

Except not Max.

Because that one time a year ago when she accidentally almost kissed him, he said he loves her like a sister. Like a sister. So yeah, she isn’t about to fall for her best friend. (Again.) Besides, Max told her that he doesn’t want to get married to anyone. Ever. Sure, it could’ve been the effects of his last relationship talking, but she is fairly sure he means it.

That’s okay, because she has a plan to find her perfect man. She and Max both need dates for a friend’s wedding, so she talks Max into a little competition—to see who can go on the highest number of dates, each with a different person, all within the span of one week. And by the end, each of them will ask their favorite to be their date at the wedding.

It’s a brilliant plan; she’s sure of it. Seven days and that perfect wedding date will hopefully turn into happily ever afters for both of them.

The plan is so good it is practically foolproof.

 

My Review: 5 Stars

 

This story is perfection in every single way.

Hilarious humor? Check. Absolutely sidesplitting.

Great characters? Check. And I looooved seeing characters from previous books in this series.

Speed dating? Check. With some of the funniest dating stories ever.

Swoony romance? Double check, check! 

 

I loved everything about this book and it's just pure entertainment--straight to the heart. I loved the vivacity of Peyton and the amazing bond that she shares with her three best friends, but especially that rock solid best friendship that she shares with Max. Finally ready to settle down, she devises the ultimate dating competition and the results are self surprising.

 

I seriously laughed and swooned so many times that I lost count. This is one of my favorite series and this one is probably my favorite of them all. It's so comforting to come home to this group of friends and to delve into each one of the girl's lives in depth with each installment, and I can't wait for Timini's story.

 

Content: mild, swoony romance; lots of humor; mild moments of peril/danger 

Roommaid by Sariah Wilson {Review}

 

Roommaid by Sariah Wilson

Kindle Edition, 301 pages

Expected publication: October 1st 2020 by Montlake 

Source: I received a copy through Kindle First Reads

 

    

 

Madison Huntington is determined to live her dreams. That means getting out from under her family’s wealth and influence by saying no to the family business, her allowance, and her home. But on a teacher’s salary, the real world comes as a rude awakening—especially when she wakes up every morning on a colleague’s couch. To get a place of her own (without cockroaches, mold, or crime scene tape), Madison accepts a position as a roommaid. In exchange for free room and board, all she needs to do is keep her busy roommate’s penthouse clean and his dog company. So what if she’s never washed a dish in her life. She can figure this out, right?

Madison is pretty confident she can fake it well enough that Tyler Roth will never know the difference. The finance whiz is rich and privileged and navigates the same social circles as her parents—but to him she’s just a teacher in need of an apartment. He’s everything Madison has run from, but his kindhearted nature, stomach-fluttering smile, and unexpected insecurities only make her want to get closer. And Tyler is warming to the move.

Rewarding job. Perfect guy. Great future. With everything so right, what could go wrong? Madison is about to find out.

 

My Review: 5 Stars

 

This is exactly the type of story that I just want to pack up my bags and move into. With its hilarious moments, fantastic characters, and super swoony romance, this sweet escape hit the spot of a fun romantic comedy.   

 

Madison is desperate for a place to live after being cut off from her wealthy family. Solution? Move in with Tyler and become his roommaid (roommate and maid), helping out with his adorable dog and apartment while he travels. Madison and Tyler have an easy and comfortable friendship, but the misconceptions, mishaps, and misinformation lead to some seriously hilarious moments that brought a smile to my face and a flutter to my heart. The supporting cast of characters was just as amazing as the main characters were and I'd love them to get their own stories (hint, hint).

Sariah Wilson is brilliant at bringing a story together in a way that engages the reader and sends delicious tingles down the spine. I devoured this one faster than a dog eats a shoe. I couldn't get enough of the flirtatious banter, Madison's tenacity, and the way each character unfolded, exposing their innermost souls. 

 

With an explosion of poms, The Bachelor, Pigeon, dish soap, bleach, and more, Roommaid was a definite winner!

 

Content:  mild+ romance

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

Oh, Keep Your Shirt On (Shaped by Love #2) by Michelle Pennington {Review}

Oh, Keep Your Shirt On (Shaped by Love #2) by Michelle Pennington

Kindle Edition

Published July 10th 2020 

Source: Kindle Unlimited

  

   

Nothing about me is fake...except my boyfriend.
I needed a favor, but I knew what Damien would ask for in return—a date to his cousin's wedding.

But there was no way I'd agree. Facing his match-making mom and scheming ex-girlfriend didn't exactly sound fun. Besides, the less time I spent around him the better.

Already my neighbor and landlord, he was steadily charming his way into my life. Being his friend was tempting enough. What would happen if we pretended to be a couple for a night? No. I had to keep him at arm’s length. At least.

But Tessa had changed my life for the better when she gave me a job, and now she needed help.

Aaaaaand…that was how I ended up fake dating my boss’s fake boyfriend. Who for some reason can’t keep his shirt on.

My Review: 5 Stars

Now, Krista--why in the world do you want Damien to keep his shirt on?! Hubba, hubba! I loved reading more about her story, as she was a background character in Book 1. Pennington does a great job of penning her character--she's so opposite of Tessa, but a woman none-the-less. Women of all shapes and sizes have insecurities and things they wish they could change about themselves and I love that Pennington is addressing all of these issues, one story at a time. Not only are they each entertaining, but they're sweet and romantic as well, and allow everyone a chance to relate and empathize. 

Krista and Damien are fantastic characters and I enjoyed the way their next-door neighborness grew to friendship and evolved to a fake relationship. I couldn't get enough of their interactions and the swoon and chemistry was spot on and I eagerly devoured every single exchange.

I want to explore every character even remotely related to Booms and Nibbles and can't wait to see how their stories are shaped.

Content: mild+ romance