August 27, 2025 – My Sanctuary

Review Card & Book Review- I Knew You Were Trouble By Sandy Barker

Don’t get mad. Get even.

Kate Whitaker has always believed in love, but when a stranger named Willem shows up on her doorstep, the news he has to share isn’t as exciting as his god-like looks might suggest. He’s come to tell her that Kate’s fiancé is also engaged to his sister.

Kate doesn’t know how she didn’t see the red flags: Jon’s work as an airline pilot having him flying around the globe, the postponed dates, the huge rock of an engagement ring that isn’t her style at all.

Overcome with fury – and entranced by the Nordic god’s piercing blue eyes and quiet allure – Kate agrees to accompany Willem to his hometown of Amsterdam to help break the news to his sister. Yet what begins as a simple gesture of support soon twists into a deliciously devious plan to get back at Jon.

Kate is drawn into a world of retribution, revenge and – unexpectedly – romance. Because sometimes the best way to get over someone is to get under someone else…

About The Author

My Review

Kate Whitaker’s world is turned upside down when she learns her fiancé is engaged to someone else. Instead of drowning in heartbreak, she teams up with Willem—the man who broke the news—to expose the truth to his sister, who is also engaged to the same man. Their journey from London to Amsterdam and Verona, initially fueled by revenge, soon sparks unexpected romance.

The novel is lighthearted and entertaining, with humor, strong female friendships, and engaging interactions. However, Kate’s reaction to betrayal feels oddly muted, and the revenge-driven plot lacks depth. While the pacing and underwhelming Amsterdam storyline could have been stronger, the likable characters—especially Willem—keep the story enjoyable.

My Rating

Link To Purchase

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Happy Publication Day – 27 August 2025

A Billionaire For Christmas By Jo Lyons

When talented chef Molly’s best friend and business partner, Ava, passes away, she leaves Molly their beloved restaurant – and a wild, impossible bucket list to complete. But thanks to a legal mix-up, Molly’s inheritance is at risk unless she ticks off every outrageous item before the Christmas Eve deadline: just twelve days away.

Determined to honour Ava’s wishes and desperate to save her dream, Molly searches for a billionaire willing to share Champagne with her in a hot tub – one of the more extravagant challenges on the bucket list. She’s in a luxurious ski resort in the French Alps, so it might just be doable. But then she meets Levi. A devastatingly handsome billionaire, yes, but infuriatingly resistant to getting involved!

As the snow falls and sparks fly, Molly is entangled in a series of increasingly embarrassing escapades. With time running out, can she pull off the impossible – and maybe even find love along the way?

Review Card & Book Review – The Two Of Us By Lori Foster & Maisey Yates

The Odd Couple * LORI FOSTER
Ford Caruso agrees to an unusual favor—playing the part of new boyfriend for his adamantly single, irresistibly sexy neighbor Skye Fairchild, whose clueless ex refuses to accept his fate. But as Skye starts dropping by to use Ford’s pool, and even plan dates, the charade begins to feel satisfyingly real, complete with choosing rescue dogs together—a giant mutt and a fierce little chihuahua who adore each other. From one odd couple to another, some things are destined . . .

Force of Nature * MAISEY YATES
Rescuing animals is in Lydia Clay’s blood, so when a mournful old cattle dog named Hank shows up at the shelter, she knows exactly where to take him: to cattle rancher Remington Lane, her brother’s hot, and usually grumpy, best friend. Hank belonged to Remy’s estranged father, which is one strike against him, but when Lydia offers to help the man ease into dog ownership, he can’t say no. And as he and Lydia work together, it looks like an old dog can actually teach this brooding cattleman some heart-warming new tricks . . .

About The Author

My Review

The Odd Couple by Lori Foster

Ford and Skye are complete opposites who try to ignore their attraction but can’t resist fate. As neighbors, they initially avoid friendship, but when Ford’s ex stirs his protective instincts, they make a pact that slowly deepens into something real. Skye, often overshadowed by her outgoing twin sister, finds confidence in Ford, who sees her true worth. Alongside their quirky rescue dogs, Maybelline and Tank, their love story unfolds with heartwarming charm. Though a short read, it delivers well-developed characters, chemistry, and an engaging romance that keeps readers hooked.

Forces of Nature by Maisey Yates

Remy, who had a tough childhood, was taken in by his best friend’s family, including Lydia, his friend’s younger sister. Lydia, a devoted animal rescuer, has secretly loved Remy for years. When she arrives at his door with his father’s neglected dog, their relationship takes a new turn. Remy struggles with feelings of unworthiness, while Lydia gathers the courage to express her true feelings. This fast-paced, uplifting romance features strong character growth and a touching love story, making it a highly recommended quick read.

My Rating

Link To Purchase

Amazon

Barnes & Noble

Kobo