The Belle of Belgrave Square by Mimi Matthews {Tour Review & Giveaway}

The Belle of Belgrave Square (Bells of London #2) by Mimi Matthews

Expected Publication: October 11, 2022
432 pages

A London heiress rides out to the wilds of the English countryside to honor a marriage of convenience with a mysterious and reclusive stranger.

Tall, dark, and dour, the notorious Captain Jasper Blunt was once hailed a military hero, but tales abound of his bastard children and his haunted estate in Yorkshire. What he requires now is a rich wife to ornament his isolated ruin, and he has his sights set on the enchanting Julia Wychwood.

For Julia, an incurable romantic cursed with a crippling social anxiety, navigating a London ballroom is absolute torture. The only time Julia feels any degree of confidence is when she’s on her horse. Unfortunately, a young lady can’t spend the whole of her life in the saddle, so Julia makes an impetuous decision to take her future by the reins—she proposes to Captain Blunt.

In exchange for her dowry and her hand, Jasper must promise to grant her freedom to do as she pleases. To ride—and to read—as much as she likes without masculine interference. He readily agrees to her conditions, with one provision of his own: Julia is forbidden from going into the tower rooms of his estate and snooping around his affairs. But the more she learns of the beastly former hero, the more intrigued she becomes…

PURCHASE LINKS

AMAZON | BARNES & NOBLE | BOOK DEPOSITORY | BOOKSHOP | GOODREADS

My Review: 5 Stars

This book is simply amazing! I was prepared to enjoy this delicious treat over the course of a few days and just like with any of my guilty pleasures, I completely binged on it--I couldn't help it and I couldn't put it down! 

 Mimi Matthews created a delightful masterpiece of a story that captivated every morsel of my heart and soul. Loosely based on a classic fairy tale (one of my favorites), I was eager to settle into London society once again, and I was intrigued--a beautiful girl with her nose always stuck in a book; a dashing, brooding war hero in need of money to rebuild his crumbling estate; a rag-tag group of illegitimate children in desperate need of a mother; and a marriage of convenience.

Matthews vividly brought these characters to life with her beautiful prose and unique twists and turns. Julia was easy for me to relate to, with her slight social anxieties and desire to read and escape than to do almost anything else. Jasper's brooding and intimidating countenance made for some very interesting encounters, especially with his romantic sparkles. 

I adored every interaction between Jasper and Julia, but especially the unconventional marriage arrangement and its results. This nearly gothic romance, featuring some wonderfully written characters, is the perfect addition to the Belles of London series.

Content: mild+ romance (kissing, chemistry, some innuendo, fade-to-black between married couple, mistress); mild language; mild descriptions of peril and war-type violence

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

GIVEAWAY

Mimi has generously offered a fabulous giveaway that book tour participants can add to
their post and on social media. Here are the details:

• Giveaway period: October 3 – October 30
   
• Terms & Conditions:
   
• Giveaway hosted by Mimi Matthews. No Purchase Necessary. Entrants must be 18
  years or older. Open to US residents only. All information will remain confidential and
  will not be sold or otherwise used, except to notify the winner and to facilitate postage of
  the book to the winner. Void where prohibited.

Giveaway Details:

1 winner (selected at random by Rafflecopter) receives a paperback copy of The Belle
of Belgrave Square, signed and annotated by the author with personal comments,
underlining of her favorite lines, and other highlights by Mimi Matthews.
Giveaway is open from 12:01 am Pacific time 10/03/22 until 11:59pm Pacific time on
10/30/22.

The winner will be announced on Mimi's blog on 10/31/22.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

The Party Planning Committe by Amy Matayo {Review}

The Party Planning Committee by Amy Matayo

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

 

When Charlotte Pringle Frost won The Party Planning Committee three years ago, she gained name-recognition, money, and enough wealthy clients to keep her Beverly Hills party-planning business running for months. But when her father used all her winnings to pay off his gambling debts, he left her with nothing but the clothes on her back and a damaged reputation. Now she’s living in Arkansas, was just fired from her party store cashier job, and can’t figure out how it all went wrong.

Lance Dutton hasn’t been at his mental wellness retreat in Switzerland five minutes when his mom calls to tell him his little sister is engaged. Alexandria is twenty-two, and her overly tattooed fiancé fronts an underground boy band; so much for mental wellness. It isn’t enough that Lance has spent ten years of his life starring on Dealing with the Duttons—his family’s reality show; now he’s expected to come home and oversee the wedding. With multiple product lines and new endorsement deals in the works, his family can’t afford any bad press.

When Alexandria impulsively hires some random contestant she remembers from an old reality game show to plan the wedding, all Lance sees is a disaster in the making. It’s bad enough that the wedding is in four weeks and his sister wants the whole process aired live, but this Charlotte chick is cuter than he expected, and she’s messing with his head. Suddenly he’s thinking about the future, and nothing could possibly be worse than that.

Nothing, that is, until Alexandria tells them her ridiculous wedding theme.

As the only sane people around, it’s up to Lance and Charlotte to make this disastrous wedding a success, a nearly impossible feat that soon has them both wondering…

Even if the wedding doesn’t work out, could they?

 AMAZON  ***  GOODREADS 

My Review: 5 Stars

Reality TV. A girl who lost it all. A super hot, super sweet guy. The wedding of a century. An off-limits relationship with the most underlying sizzling chemistry ever. An elderly, outspoken, quirky neighbor. What's not to love about this book? Why, absolutely nothing! I loved every minute of every page and didn't want it to end.

Anyone who's followed me for awhile knows I'm not a reality TV watcher, but I love stories with that plot line. Charlotte is a fantastic character and makes the rich and famous life look unappealing. I love how she gets so much satisfaction out of the simple things in life, yet she's so hard working and creative. And Lance? Whew, where do I even start? This reality star playboy seems to shun the spotlight, yet loves the lifestyle, but he's so down-to-earth and absolutely lovable. Even the wedding couple was deeper than first glance, although Alex (the bride) came off like a fickle coin--fun and adorable on one side and a spoiled brat on the other. The romantic tension was wonderfully perfect--sigh--so perfect. 

Content: mild+ romance (swoony, kissing, some innuendo); mild language

Summer Nights at the Homestead Inn: While He Was Sleeping by Kimberly Krey {Review}

Summer Nights at the Homestead Inn: While He Was Sleeping by Kimberly Krey

Kindle Edition
Publication June 1, 2021
Source: I received a complimentary copy. All opinions expressed are my own and were voluntarily given 

Two brothers.
One Woman.
And a whole lot of commotion.

Richard and Ava can't let the others know about their romance.
Good thing they have those warm summer nights.

When a set of billionaire twins unwittingly offer Ava a chance to escape her abusive boyfriend, she takes it. Who knew the one-way trip to Costa Rica would lead them to a relocation program in Haven Hills, where the twins' siblings, including their "oldest ornery brother" Richard live in hiding?

As Ava finds her place in their new destination, she also finds herself drawn to none other than the oldest brother, despite obvious advances from one of the twins. Things take a turn when that twin winds up on strict bedrest while attempting a stunt to impress her. Days later, Ava discovers that Richard feels the same undeniable spark between them, and so starts their summer nights rendezvous. In a hiding spot of their very own, Richard and Ava give into sweet romance, passionate kisses, and talk of how they'll eventually tell his family about their love.

Richard knew better than to fall for a woman his brother Maverick had the hots for. But he can't deny his attraction to Ava, a woman who actually loves math as much as he does. Besides, the two weren't dating. Maverick had no right to stake his claim on her.

But that doesn't change the fact that he and Ava's secret romance could start a whole lot of trouble when he finds out.

   

My Review: 5 Stars

This is a fun series about a family in the witness protection program and I don't think I could do it. This is the second book so far and I love how the reader gets to know the characters better and better as the series progresses, and I can't wait to learn more about the other siblings.

Richard is the eldest and the serious, grumpy brother, but all that changes when Ava shows up with his twin brothers. I loved the vague play on a favorite classic movie, which gave the story some familiarity, but twisted into a messy pile of pure entertainment.

The way the summer heat sparks a swoony, massive attraction that results in a steamy clean hidden romance was perfection. While there are big secrets to be kept by all and obvious walls are high, Krey manages to draw the reader in with some humor, a hint of danger, and more than a few amazing kisses.

This is a cute story that was the perfect reading escape and I can't wait for more!

Content: mild+ romance (some light innuendo, steamy-clean kissing); mild violence (talk of abuse)

Rescue a Stubborn Heart (Hudson Brothers Romance - Book 2) by Cindy Roland Anderson {Review}

Rescue a Stubborn Heart (Hudson Brothers Romance - Book 2) by Cindy Roland Anderson

285 pages, Kindle Edition
Publication May 27, 2021
Source: I received a complimentary copy. All opinions expressed are my own and were voluntarily given 

She doesn’t believe true love is real.
He thinks he’s too broken for love.
Everything changes when two stubborn hearts meet.

On the run from her ex-husband’s twisted family, Finley seeks help from Jaxon Hudson, the Navy SEAL who rescued her three years ago. Even though she only knew him for a few hours, it was long enough for her to fall in love. But Jaxon’s imminent deployment squashed any hope of a relationship, and he walked away, taking a piece of her heart with him.

Now Finley is older and wiser and not looking for love. So when Jaxon proposes a marriage of convenience and offers the protection of his name, but not his heart, Finley accepts the terms.

There’s only one problem, the spark they had three years ago never died out...placing her in danger of falling for him all over again.

   

My Review: 5 Stars

So much is wrapped up in these pages. Anderson tackles a few tough topics, such as PTSD and domestic abuse, but does it in a way that brings issues to light without feeling heavy at all. These Hudson brothers are a force to be reckoned with and I love getting their stories. LOVED!

After Jaxon rescues Finley, takes her on one date, and then deploys, survivor's guilt and trauma take over his life. When Finley needs rescuing again, they reconnect and the sparks are more flammable than ever.

Jaxon is one amazing character! Although he's strong and compassionate, he's battling demons, which makes him relatable. Finley has struggled her whole life, especially with a sense of belonging and the marriage of inconvenience that ensues from their reunion finally gives her what she craves...but can she keep it?

Anderson has a way of writing that makes me smile, swoon, and devour every single word. I loved every interaction between Jaxon and Finley and couldn't get enough of their palpable chemistry. The zings were instantaneous, yet completely believable, and the little baby, Gracie, melted my heart.

I absolutely adore these brothers--every single one--and can't wait to read every one of their stories.

Content: mild+ romance (very mild innuendo, swoony kissing, unwanted advances); mild violence (vague talk of abuse, neglect, war violence, death)

The Seat Filler by Sariah Wilson {Review}

The Seat Filler by Sariah Wilson

Kindle Edition

Expected publication: April 27th 2021
Source: I received a complimentary copy. All opinions expressed are my own and were voluntarily given

The movie star and the dog groomer are one kiss away from the perfect love story. That’s the hiccup in a warm and witty romance by the bestselling author of Room-maid.

The meet-cute award goes to dog groomer Juliet Nolan. It’s one of Hollywood’s biggest nights when she volunteers as a seat filler and winds up next to movie heartthrob Noah freaking Douglas. Tongue tied and toes curling in her pink Converse, she pretends that she doesn’t have a clue who he is. It’s the only way to keep from swooning.

She’s pretty and unpretentious, loves his dog, and is not a worshipping fan. No way Noah’s giving up on her, even if his affectionate pursuit comes with a bump: Juliet has a pathological fear of kissing and the disappointments that follow. What odds does romance have without that momentous, stupendous, once-in-a-lifetime first smooch? Patient, empathetic, and carrying personal burdens of his own, Noah suggests a remedy: they rehearse.

The lessons begin. The guards come down. But there’s another hitch they weren’t betting on. As for that cue-the-orchestra-and-roll-credits happy ending? It might take more than practice to make it perfect.

 

  

 

 

My Review: 5 Stars

 

And the award goes to... Sariah Wilson... for writing one of the cutest, swooniest books ever! The story of an every-day normal girl with believable issues and an intriguing, sweet, and handsome-in-his-own-right actor captured my interest and hooked me from the very first page. I couldn't get enough.

 

I love how witty and true to herself Juliet is and the banter and attraction between Juliet and Noah completely swept me away. The whole cast of characters is perfect for this story and meshed together in an amazing way that drew me right in and didn't let me go--I think this book must be laced with something addictive because I'm feeling a book hangover right about now.

 

This is hands-down one of the swooniest romances I've ever read. The connection between Noah and Juliet, and the super dreamy kisses, kept me up way too late and left me floating for a long time afterward. The Seat Filler is definitely a book that deserves to be re-read and I can't wait to enjoy it all over again.

 

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

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

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 Holiday Husband (Sugar Creek #4) by Jenny B. Jones {Review}

The Holiday Husband (Sugar Creek #4) by Jenny B. Jones

Kindle Edition, 277 pages

Published November 5th 2020

Source: Kindle Unlimited

 

 

 

Annie made a holiday wish to be reunited with the one who got away.
She should’ve been more specific...
Museum curator Annie Bristow has spent years regretting a marriage proposal she turned down from her college sweetheart. When a fateful ride on a holiday train gives Annie the opportunity to make it right, she wishes for a do-over. She wants to go back and say yes to her one true love. Who better than a twinkly-eyed Mrs. Claus to make it happen? What could possibly go wrong?

Getting a second chance at love should’ve been a dream come true. But when Annie wakes up married to the wrong ex-boyfriend, she’ll have to pretend to be Mrs. Holden Thomas until the holiday train returns on Christmas Day. She’s determined to find a way to reunite with the right true love, but obstacles keep foiling her efforts. Like Holden being frustratingly handsome and unexpectedly charming. This quiet man holds onto a painful past of his own, and Annie finds herself drawn to the life Holden has built. But falling for him is so not part of the plan...

The countdown is on, and love is at stake. When Christmas morning arrives, will Annie return to her old life? Or say ‘I do” to the one man she never wished for?

   

My Review: 5 Stars

Annie learns that hard way that you should be careful what you wish for. Thinking if she could go back in the past to the "one who got away," her life would be better, but she's in for a surprise when she hits her head and wakes up to find herself married to someone else--Holden. 

This is the kind of book that I want to pack up and move right into. I loved everything about it--Annie's desperation and persistence in finding the Mrs. Claus who granted her wish; Holden's sweet, patient, and perfect wonderfulness; the undeniably swoony chemistry and zippy interactions; and the most endearing characters, plot, growth, and even side stories/relationships. I enjoyed every minute of peeling the layers away from the story to reveal something unique and beautiful.

The Holiday Husband was the perfect cap to my holiday reading. I haven't read the other books in this series, but if they're anything like this one, that will definitely change! 

Content: mild romance

Friend Zone to End Zone by Judy Corry {Review}

Friend Zone to End Zone by Judy Corry

Kindle Edition, 226 pages

Published November 3rd 2020 

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

 

 

Cole
I don't suck at dating.
I suck at getting over the girl who friend-zoned me back in college.
But I have a plan: Let her set me up. Bomb the dates.
Then she can be my dating coach and I can finally prove I'm the one for her and not that jerk boyfriend she's always crying on my shoulder about.

Arianna
I've had the same boyfriend for three years, which practically makes me a relationship expert.
So when my famous best friend asks for my help, I know turning him into boyfriend material will be a piece of cake.
I'll tell him to get a haircut, maybe open a few doors here and there and the guy will be golden.
I mean, with all those muscles and jaw-dropping good looks, it really should be no problem.
There's just one thing I didn't expect: To want him for myself.

 

   

My Review: 5 Stars

 

The friendship that Cole and Arianna shares is golden, but not without its complications. Arianna has a boyfriend and Cole has a secret thing for his best friend. I'm not opposed to a love triangle with a dash of a fake relationship, and maybe that's because that may or may not have been how my husband and I got together years ago. 😬

 

Corry does a fantastic job of writing likable characters and believable relationships. No emotion is spared and I was swept away in this romantic drama. Cole is an amazing friend and support to Arianna, and I'll never look at pineapple quite the same way. Arianna is slightly naive, which leads to some major eye-opening experiences in both her private and public life, as she is a social media influencer.

 

The romance is like a wave--subtle and sneaky at first, but then knocked me off my feet, leaving me breathless. Corry writes in a way that skirts the line, flirting with some innuendo, but stays sweet and swoony. I adore this author and can't wait for more!

 

Content: mild+ romance (mild innuendo, kissing/making out, teen rebellion)

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

Billionaire Ghost Tour by Stephanie Fowers {Review}

 

Billionaire Ghost Tour (A Billionaire Bachelor Mountain Cove Novel) by Stephanie Fowers

Kindle Edition

Publication: October 7th 2020 

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

 

    

 

Who says opposites attract?

When Janson and Mollie get off on the wrong foot at the bachelor auction, the two never want to see each other again... except they sorta do. In fact neither of them can stop thinking about that night.

Mollie doesn’t know what’s wrong with her. Janson Styles tops her list of most arrogant men—with his wealth, good looks and a bad boy charm that gets him in trouble with the media (not to mention with her) so why isn’t she immune to his sultry smirks?

Janson can’t stop playing with fire. Of course, he's strong enough to withstand the fiery temptation of Mollie Sawyer—not only will he book a ghost tour with that molten hot redhead, but he’ll also bring a date! It doesn’t help that the moment he sees Mollie, he loses his head again.

Now they're both in for the night of their lives, fighting attraction and unexpected dangers, while everything that can possibly go wrong does—but in all the right ways. After all, can they really be such opposites when they fit so well in each other’s arms?

 

My Review: 5 Stars

 

I've dabbled in this series and love this quirky small town in Arkansas that's quickly becoming the home to a crew of billionaires. I'm a seasonal reader and I loved that Halloween plays such a big part in this community, since that holiday is coming up later this month. The whole town turns out for events such as zombie crawls and parades, and more and I was bewitched. 

 

Mollie is a bit bizarre, leading ghost tours for a living, and the walls she has up around her heart and soul are higher than New York City skyscrapers. Her first encounter with Janson, a half Brazilian billionaire, was highly entertaining, as they are complete opposites and the snark is high. But those cutting barbs quickly led to a fibril of attraction--be still my heart. The crazy danger that happened during Janson's personal ghost tour had the hairs standing up on my arms and the butterflies swarming in my stomach.

I loved the descriptions of the celebration, but most of all, I loved these characters and the fragments of their brokenness. The whole story was peculiar, in a good way, and I couldn't get enough of the swoon and action. Serious swoon with this one!

Content: mild+ romance (kissing, some light innuendo); mild+ moments of violence/danger

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

The Match by Sarah Adams {Review}

The Match by Sarah Adams

Kindle Edition, 282 pages

Published May 30th 2020 

Source: Kindle Unlimited

 

    

 

Having worked for Southern Service Paws for a few years now, I like to think I’m prepared for just about any client meeting under the sun. I am dead wrong.

The day I meet with single dad, Jacob Broaden, about potentially matching his daughter with one of our service dogs, I learn a few valuable lessons.

1) Always set my alarm clock.
2) Single dads are way hotter than I previously thought.
3) It is possible to go from fantasizing about kissing someone to wishing they would be run over by a truck in a matter of two minutes.

Unfortunately, I don’t hold that opinion of him for very long. Not when he shows me a different side of himself—one that’s sweet as maple syrup and hot as apple pie fresh out of the oven.

Too bad this guy is so far out of my league that I shouldn’t even be allowed to enter the game. Jake doesn’t seem to get that memo though. And after a few days of working closely with him and his daughter, he starts looking at me with fire in his eyes, making me dream of something I probably shouldn’t…

A family.

"The Match is a feel-good romantic comedy! Perfect for readers who enjoy a sizzling romance without explicit content."

 

My Review: 5 Stars

 

Have you ever met someone and instantly felt a BFF connection? That's how I feel about this book. It's like it was written just for me since I connected to it so well. The dialogue, descriptions, and humor settled right into my heart and soul and I couldn't have asked for a more perfect story. 

  

Life is hard right now and I just want a book to sweep me away and distract me, and while this book did just that, it also had some depth and allowed me to experience intense joy, sadness, fear, and the most exquisite, swoony romance ever. I also laughed soooo much. Jake is coming off a bad divorce and Evie is trying to escape the clutches of her super rich and snooty parents. Their first meeting was quite hilarious and the comedic tone for this book was set.

 

Alternating points-of-view drew me right into the minds of these wonderful characters and gave me glimpses into their thoughts and feelings. I couldn't get enough of this story and of Jake and Evie. And everyone needs a Jo in their lives. I wanted to keep basking in the book all summer long. True perfection from start to finish.    

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

The Billionaire Bachelor by Judy Corry {Review}

The Billionaire Bachelor by Judy Corry

Kindle Edition, 300 pages

Published February 2020 by Amazon Digital Services

    

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

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

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

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

My Review: 5 Stars

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

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

Content: mild+ romance (kissing)