Monthly Archives: August 2024

Review Card & Book Review – Work It Out By Eva Siedler

With the lead role in a huge action film up for grabs, actor Jake Newman has ninety days to get in shape. How does a man grow abs without the tabloids watching his every move? By sneaking off to a high-end health resort in his Arizona hometown to supersize his biceps…Thor style. Oh, and hope no one discovers the real reason he bailed from Los Angeles—or the teeny little health issue he’s hoping to keep from everyone.

Especially his cute, sunshiny, and absolute hard-ass new trainer.

Former gymnast Rayah Summers has poured everything she has into her desert dream: a full-service resort that helps people transform their bodies and lifestyles. But a run of bad luck has her on the brink of bankruptcy —and the Hollywood hunk with insanely sexy dimples is all that’s standing between her and disaster.

Now everything depends on her success: her future, her roof over her head, and especially her trainers—who are more family than employees. Rayah can’t afford for anything to go wrong… and no one’s able to explain why Jake Newman keeps collapsing during even the lightest workouts. 

Now it’s a balance beam nightmare, with Rayah trying to keep her business afloat—all while managing her staff’s drama, keeping her celebrity client a secret, and not falling for him or his devilishly sexy grin. And it’s just a matter of time before Jake’s secrets threaten not only her dreams, but the chosen family she’s found…

About The Author

My Review

“Work it Out” is a charming small-town romance featuring Jake, a famous actor, and Rayah, a former gymnast. The book captivates with its engaging characters and subtle handling of sensitive issues. While the initial chapters draw readers in with compelling characters and writing style, the story later loses momentum. Nevertheless, the chemistry between the main characters is palpable, and their vulnerability and trust add depth to the narrative. The representation of Jake’s disability, POTS, is commendable, providing valuable insight into his struggles. Although the narration’s flow could be improved, the author’s writing style and humor shine through. Overall, while there are areas for improvement, the book is an enjoyable read, and readers will likely anticipate more from the author.

My Rating

Link To Purchase

Amazon
Barnes & Noble
Kobo

Happy Publication Day – 11 August 2024

Happy Days Ahead In The Cornish Village By Sarah Hope

Life begins outside your comfort zone…

Book-keeper Megan has always lived life by a set of very rigid rules, but with impending divorce papers on the horizon, she throws herself into a new challenge.

She finds solace and purpose in her volunteer work at a dogs’ home but with finances tight, and soon-to-be ex-husband Lyle controlling her purse strings, she might have to trade the work for something more permanent.

But spending her time in the fresh countryside air, Megan discovers a glimmer of hope for a new beginning, finding strength, love, and the promise of a brighter tomorrow – and maybe, even possibly, a new romance.

Review Card & Book Review- The Last Days of You and Me By Debbie Howells

They didn’t know – when Winter gave way to Spring that year – that their lives were all about to change…

Marnie didn’t realise – when she stormed into a bookshop one day, demanding a self-help book – that she was about to make a new best friend.

Bookshop-owner Rae didn’t know she had been living like a shadow since her parents died. But then Marnie exploded into her life. And suddenly she realised things had to change… more so when she meets handsome nurse, Jack.

And when Forrest’s life is turned upside down by a fatal car crash, he knew he was being given a second chance, but didn’t know why. He thinks Marnie might just be the woman he’s destined to be with. But – as she discovers that she has an illness she may never recover from – what if it’s too late for them?

Can it ever be too late though? To make friendships that change everything. To grow, to change, to start again. Even – for two unlikely new best friends to find love at last…?

About The Author

My Review

This poignant story follows four young individuals—Marnie, Rae, Jack, and Forrest—who navigate life after experiencing loss. Each character is intricately crafted, and their alternating perspectives create a captivating narrative as their lives intertwine. Despite the theme of death, the book is ultimately life-affirming, emphasizing the enduring power of love, friendship, and belonging. Debbie Howells skillfully weaves a plot that explores the connections between people, leaving readers emotionally charged and empowered. The story lingers long after finishing, prompting reflection and a desire to revisit its resonant passages.

My Rating

Link To Purchase

Amazon
Barnes & Noble
Kobo

Review Card & Book Review – The Last Stars in the Sky By Kate Hewitt

“Mom, why are you so mad at Dad?”

“I’m not,” I say, which isn’t exactly true. Putting on a brave face for my two young daughters—pretending everything is fine in my marriage—has been hard. That, and losing the house after Daniel lied to me.

I never expected to have to uproot my family to go live in my parents’ isolated cottage on Lost Lake. It’s twenty miles to the nearest town, an insignificant speck in endless pine forests. Nobody’s lived here for a decade.

Now, I pick up a rusty pail from its nest of autumn leaves and turn to my daughter. Suddenly, I recall how I used to help my own mother pick wild strawberries up here as a little girl. Maybe, this isn’t a punishment. Maybe this place will be the making of our family.

I’m still thinking it when my daughter rests her silky head on my shoulder that evening in the flickering firelight. And when, over a steaming cup of coffee at dawn, I watch a single loon cut a course through the mirrored surface of Lost Lake.

Later, I’ll hold on to these memories—ghostly shreds of another life. Because just eight hours after I sat on that sofa, feeling so hopeful, the world as I knew it—as anyone knew it—was gone for good.

About The Author

My Review

“The Last Stars in the Sky” by Kate Hewitt is a surprising family drama that delves into survival and transformation. As a catastrophic event forces the characters to adapt to a new reality, they undergo profound changes and learn to prioritize survival over their former comforts. The complexity of the characters, particularly Alex and Kerry, is well-developed as they navigate fear, adversity, and the need for constant resilience. Daniel’s harrowing journey to rescue their son adds tension to the narrative, and the suspenseful atmosphere keeps the reader engaged. While the cliffhanger ending leaves some questions unanswered, the overall realism and frightening portrayal of disaster make this a gripping and memorable read, highly recommended for those who enjoy suspenseful dramas.

My Rating

Link To Purchase

Amazon
Barnes & Noble

Review Card & Book Review – The Bump in Their Forbidden Reunion By Amanda Cinelli

She’s totally forbidden…
and scandalously pregnant!

This New Year, Izzy O’Sullivan has one resolution: to conceive her late husband’s baby. Her plans are derailed when Grayson Koh crashes her fertility appointment to tell her that won’t be possible…

If desiring Izzy from afar was torturous for former racing car driver Grayson, then having to reveal his best friend’s deception is unbearable. Yet having her this close again unlocks something primal in Grayson… And knowing Izzy feels it too compels the cynical billionaire to make a scandalous offer: whisk her to Singapore and give her the family she wants!

About The Author

My Review

The story follows Izzy, a widow desperate for a baby, who discovers that if she had undergone IVF as planned, she would’ve had her late husband’s best friend Grayson’s child instead. As they are snowed in together, secrets unravel, and they must decide their future. Despite the delayed appearance of the baby, the book explores the deep connection between Izzy and Grayson as they navigate their past and present feelings. Ultimately, it highlights the unpredictability of life and the power of love to overcome obstacles.

My Rating

Link To Purchase

Amazon
Barnes & Noble
Kobo
Harlequin

Happy Publication Day – 8 August 2024

I Hate Rock Stars By Mia McCoy

low the rules. He breaks them. Rule #1: Don’t kiss, no matter what he says about the way you eat an ice cream cone. 

My dream is to get a promotion at Melody Bay Animal Shelter. So my new intern should help me get the promotion, right? Shoulder some workload? Make some killer coffee? 

Wrong. 

Unfortunately, my new intern is Nate Hart. Rock god extraordinaire. The local who finally returned. The local everyone loves. 

Apparently, his bad boy shenanigans caught up with him—a judge appointed him to do community service at our animal shelter. Although what he did is a Big Secret. 

Whatever. 

You see, I know Nate. He was my first kiss in school. A forbidden kiss I try to forget. 

But as much as I try to tame my feelings, the wilder they grow…

They hit code-red when my boss assigns us on a road trip to pick up a traumatized dog. Of course, the motel room only has one bed. So what if it leads to the hottest, most physically creative night of my life? So what if I’ve never felt anything like this before? 

The question remains: Is it true love, or is a second chance romance like teaching an old dog new tricks?

Review Card & Book Review – The Girl She Left Behind By Jo Bartlett

A family in turmoil…

Phoebe Spencer left home a long time ago, desperate to get away from her mother’s emotional manipulation. She knows her life is better away from her family, but she can’t help feeling she’s simply running away from her problems…

Then Phoebe hears that her younger sister Lucy has disappeared, leaving behind her four-year old daughter, Darcy. Phoebe’s certain Lucy will be back soon – she’d never leave Darcy alone – and then Phoebe can get on with her life again.

But as the days pass there’s still no sign of Lucy, and everyone begins to fear the worst. Phoebe has to consider the terrible truth that Lucy might never come home. And as their mother makes it clear she wants to take control of Darcy’s life, Phoebe must do all she can to protect the girl her sister left behind – no matter the cost to her.

About The Author

My Review

The book is a powerful story with darker themes than expected, delving into the legacy of a difficult childhood and emotional impact rather than fast-paced action. Phoebe returns home to care for her niece Darcy after her sister Lucy disappears, escaping their manipulative mother’s influence. Secrets unravel about the sisters’ traumatic past, bringing tears to the reader. Phoebe’s bond with Darcy and budding romance with Jamie provide hope amidst the turmoil. The characters are deeply realistic, and the writing is emotionally captivating, making it an unforgettable read with a strong recommendation.

My Rating

Link To Purchase

Amazon
Barnes & Noble
Kobo

Happy Publication Day – 7 August 2024

An Island Promise By Kate Frost

Three friends, one Balearic promise and a summer that could change their lives forever…

For twenty-one-year-old Belle Madden her first holiday to Ibiza with best friends Gem and Laurie was memorable for all the right reasons: partying the night away, planning a future filled with big dreams and making a promise to return in ten years to celebrate living their best lives – hopefully…

Fast forward a decade and Belle is desperate for a change. Eager to escape her relationship troubles, she jumps at a job opportunity that takes her back to the White Isle.

Despite loving island life and her new job, Belle realises something is missing. With their busy lives the three friends have drifted apart, their friendship fractured. Remembering their promise to return, Belle seizes the opportunity to organise a reunion holiday.

After the initial excitement of being back together in Ibiza, cracks start to appear. A lot can change in ten years. Dreams can be shattered, love lost and hope destroyed. And when secrets are revealed, long suppressed emotions begin to unravel…

Will Belle repeat her past mistakes or can a second chance summer be the beginning of a happy-ever-after for friendship as well as love?

Review Book & Book Review – Her Secret Valentine’s Baby By JC Harroway

TWO ANTI-ROMANTICS. ONE BABY BOMBSHELL!  

Heartbroken registrar Sadie is done with romance. An anti-Valentine’s party is ideal, especially when she meets dashing fellow commitment-phobe, Roman. They spend an electrifying night together—strictly no-strings-attached! But one year later, Roman reappears as a temporary surgeon. Still troubled by a tragic loss, he’s not looking to settle down…until Sadie reveals a secret. She’s had a little girl—and Roman’s the father!

About The Author

My Review

The story revolves around Sadie and Roman, both dealing with past hurts. Sadie, hurt by her ex-fiancé’s betrayal and struggling with fertility issues, has a one-night stand with Roman. A year later, they meet again at work, and Sadie must decide whether to tell Roman he’s a father to her daughter, Milly. Roman is still grieving his late wife and son and is hesitant to open up to Sadie. Despite their growing attraction, Sadie’s fear holds her back until she realizes she’s throwing away a chance at love. The story explores their emotional journey and eventual reconciliation.

My Rating

Happy Publication Day – 6 August 2024

No Romeo By Donna Alam

Scandal meets sizzle when a runaway bride’s quick getaway lands her in the arms of her almost-groom’s rival, but he has more than business on his mind when he makes her an offer she can’t refuse.

Your wedding day is meant to be the happiest day of your life. Not the day you discover your groom is a cheating jerk.

When I run, strong arms catch me. It’s just a shame they belong to my ex’s nemesis, Oliver Deubel. Rich and powerful, the man is sin in a suit. He’s also arrogant, demanding, and infuriatingly irresistible.

When my wedding disaster goes viral and deportation hangs over my head, Oliver offers me a deal: help him ruin my ex in exchange for my visa. The fine print? Move in with him.

I want to laugh in his face, until I discover how ruthless he is. So I decide to repay him by making his life a living hell, and he retaliates by…being nice to me. Which is where things become really weird as lines blur and pretend suddenly begins to feel real.

But Oliver is no Romeo, and only a fool would fall for him.

Worryingly, I think that fool might be me.

Good Boy By Elle Kennedy & Sarina Bowen

“We’re way more than friends, Jessie.”

“Blake—”

“But no worries. I’ll just sit tight until you figure that out.”

Hosting her brother’s wedding for an MVP guest list is the challenge of Jess Canning’s life. Already the family screw-up, she can’t afford to fail at this, too. Especially after the colossal mistake she made with the best man during a weak moment last spring. Nobody—absolutely nobody—can find out about that, and there will not be a repeat. Absolutely not. No matter how devastatingly sexy his smile, he’s a giant manchild who’s never been serious in his life. And if Jess wants to prove herself to her family, serious is what she has to get.

For Blake Riley, this wedding is a gift from fate itself. The girl he has his eye on is the maid of honor, and he’s the best man? Let the games begin. So what if Jess is giving him a little—fine, a lot—of resistance? He just needs to convince the stubborn blonde that he’s really a good boy with a bad rap. Beneath the flirty jokes and goofy smile, he’s got layers—even if Jess doesn’t want to see them.

Luckily, every professional hockey player knows that you’ve got to make an effort if you want to score. 

And Jess is just the girl he wants to win.

Just A Cowboy And His Baby By Carolyn Brown

Gemma O’Donnell was incensed when she wasn’t the first woman to win the PRCA (Professional Rodeo Championship Association) buckle for bronc riding. This year, she heads out on the PRCA ProRodeo Tour burning to be the second.

First stop is Cody, Wyoming where her stiffest competition is Trace Coleman, who already has a jump on her. A tall, dark-haired cowboy with a sexy grin and a swagger, he doesn’t really give a damn about the trophy belt buckle—he wants the purse to buy a ranch he has his eye on. He damn sure doesn’t have time for a sassy bit of Irish baggage who can evidently ride anything with four legs and make anything with two legs want to take her to bed.

Gemma wins a few; Trace wins a few. In the end they both qualify for the final cut in Las Vegas. But when it comes down to the wire, only one can win the bronc-riding competition and take home one helluva prize. But in this competition, it just might be loser takes all…