Monthly Archives: February 2026

Review Card & Book Review- A New Life In Amsterdam By Helga Jensen

Could down-sizing her life mean up-sizing her dreams?

Since her daughter grew up and left home, Sandy has found herself filling her house with things – impulse purchases that she just has to have but that quickly lose their sheen. Why would she need an expensive set of copper pans when she has no one to cook for?

Realising that her shopping habit is out of control, she asks herself: can she de-clutter, downsize and start a new life?

She has always wanted to live on a barge, and she reasons that there is no way she would have room for random purchases on a boat. Taking the bravest decision of her life, Sandy buys and refurbishes a barge in the beautiful city of Amsterdam.

Relishing her independence, she is not looking for love, but as the nights draw in and the leaves start to fall from the trees, she finds herself drawn to cafe owner and expert hot chocolate maker Abe.

Is she willing to take a second chance on finding the one?

About The Author

My Review

This is a charming, uplifting tale about fresh starts, second chances, and the courage it takes to reinvent your life. Sandy’s marriage has ended amicably, her daughter has moved to Australia, and she suddenly finds herself at a crossroads. In a bold leap, she downsizes her belongings—and her compulsive shopping habit—and buys a houseboat in Amsterdam without even viewing it first. What follows is a warm, witty journey of self-discovery, renovation, and resilience.

Jensen captures both the humor and heart of Sandy’s adventure beautifully. From the cultural quirks of Dutch life to the challenges of transforming her rundown houseboat, every detail immerses the reader in her new world. Alongside the practical struggles of settling into another country, Sandy also begins to rediscover joy—through unexpected friendships, her blossoming confidence, and a slow-burn connection with Abe, her charming neighbor.

What makes the novel shine is its celebration of life beyond midlife: Sandy’s journey proves that menopause and age are no barrier to chasing happiness. Heartfelt, empowering, and delightfully escapist, it is perfect for anyone dreaming of starting over.

My Rating

Link To Purchase

Happy Publication Day – 24 February 2026

Hot For Preacher By Anne Marsh

This preacher man is giving her something to believe in.

When country singer Dixie Pearl’s van breaks down in the middle of nowhere, Tennessee, it feels like rock bottom. Sharp-tongued Dixie prides herself on her independence, but after recent health struggles, her dream of making it big has never felt more out of reach.

It’s pure luck that the burly bearded man who hauls her out of the ditch is a beloved local minister. Dixie’s used to dive bars, truck stops and 2:00 a.m. brawls, not kindhearted preachers—especially one this hot.

For Jack Carter, being hospitable comes with the territory, but there’s something extra-special about Dixie. He’s dealt with his fair share of, um, quirkyparishioners. But nobody’s ever challenged him like firecracker Dixie, stirring an attraction Jack’s not sure how to reconcile with his life of devotion.

Dixie wants nothing more than to get out of town and back to Nashville, but the white-hot sparks between her and Jack are almost enough to make her want to stay…but only if she can fit their worlds together without letting go of the dreams she refuses to leave behind.

Falling For The Rabbi By Jennifer Wilck

Can opposites attract when tradition stands in the way?

Josh Axelrod is incensed! His matchmaker date brought along her annoying best friend—Emma something-or-other. The same Emma who’s ruining the house filled with the young rabbi’s childhood memories and turning it into a bookstore. Sure, she captures his attention but—no. Just no. Emma is too impulsive. Too out there. And he’s a Rabbi, for God’s sake! Except now, it seems impossible to avoid her. And with every encounter, “no” feels more like “yes.” Perhaps the unwitting Josh and Emma were always the match meant to be…

An Amish Country Lullaby By Patricia Johns

A friend from her past…
A new dream for their future?

Single dad Curtis Moore has returned to Apfelkuchen, Pennsylvania, with a dream to revitalize the town—if only he can unite its Amish and English residents. When local businesswoman Hope Taylor offers to care for his spirited toddler, Lucy, he jumps at the chance. Hope figures this is exactly the experience she needs. Not only is she planning to open a day care, but she’s expecting her first baby—her late husband’s child. As tensions rise over his development plans, Curtis and Hope grow closer—and they must decide if the heart of the town’s future might just lie in the growing love between them.

How To Resist Your Billionaire By Jenny Lane

A weeklong getaway to the past…

Travel writer Blake’s latest assignment is a sun-drenched stay at a luxury Napa Valley resort. Lush landscapes, decadent food and wine—what’s not to love? Apart from perhaps running into Sloane, the ex-girlfriend that left a decade ago without explanation. The pain of abandonment is as strong as ever, but Blake’s on the verge of a big break; she can’t walk away. Even if it means confronting buried secrets…and their scorching chemistry! Has their romance run its course—or aged like a fine wine?

Blackmail To White Veil By Clare Connelly

Forced to wed…

Enticed into bed!

Despite their painful past, Annie Langley’s last resort is to beg Theo Leonidas to save the family business. She should have known the self-made billionaire would seize his chance for revenge against her father, who’s always despised him. Theo’s outrageous counteroffer: he’ll help…on the condition that Annie marries him!

Annie hates how much her body still craves Theo—but he refuses to give in to tantalizing fantasy unless she admits she wants him! In this battle of honeymoon seduction, Annie won’t surrender without a fight…

Million- Dollar Baby Doc By Colette Cooper

Doctors…with benefits!

Pediatric consultant Will’s medical tech company made him a millionaire but destroyed his marriage. A fresh start at York Hospital is just what the doctor ordered—a refuge where nobody knows about his wealth or his heartbreak. And his no-strings fling with fellow consultant Maddie is completely heart safe. It’s all about their mutual fiery attraction! Only as their connection deepens, Will has a dilemma—keep his secret and spare himself more hurt or reveal his million-dollar deception and take a chance on forever with the woman he loves…

Eyewitness In Danger By Nicole Helm

She has a target on her back

And a protector who won’t leave her side

Sheriff’s deputy Royal Campbell knows he’s been assigned to quiet little Hope Town because he’s the rookie. Things get interesting when Franny Perkins witnesses a kidnapping and the FBI takes over Royal’s investigation. The sheriff wants Royal to stay close to Franny for her safety and because of Royal’s experience with the feds—even though that experience was on the other side of the law. Staying close to Franny gets more complicated once it’s clear that she’s in danger. And after she and Royal share one reckless kiss…

Lonesome Ridge By Maisey Yates

Good guys and bad guys . . . myth and legend . . . gold and ranching. That’s what historic Rustler Mountain, Oregon, is made of, complete with feuding families descended from outlaws and lawmen. A century later, their grudges still hold—but for a new generation, when opposites attract, it might be time to surrender . . .

From killers to courtesans, the Hancock family has what might be called an eclectic history. But they’ve managed to leverage it into something respectable, creating the popular Hancock Wild West Show. The event features reenactments and trick riding—the latter performed by clever, charismatic Jessie Jane Hancock.

Jessie is usually unflappable, but lately something’s needling her—and it’s not just her annoying attraction to exasperatingly sexy Flynn Wilder—whose great, great, great, great, great grandfather was betrayed by Jessie’s just-as-many-times-great grandfather. It’s the upcoming mayoral election. Specifically, the unopposed candidate: Danielle LeFevre, mean girl, all-around awful person, and Flynn’s not-so-beloved half-sister. Jessie wants to keep Danielle from winning . . . and the only person who bothers Flynn more than she does is Danielle.

“I want you to be my first man.” Jessie Jane is hot enough to make him hallucinate, but her request is very real. Jessie wants to run for mayor, and she wants him by her side, as her fake boyfriend. A Hancock dating a Wilder. An outsider against the status quo. A drama their town will devour. Flynn always knew Jessie was a wild card, but bringing down his corrupt stepfamily is a temptation he can’t resist. Just like the vexing spark between him and Jessie. And once that fire catches, the real showdown begins . . .

Personal Bodyguard By Danielle M. Haas

After a local woman is attacked

A bodyguard steps in to protect her at any cost.

Eve Tilly is as tough as they come. But after being attacked at work, her friend Reid Sommers goes into full bodyguard mode. His 24/7 protection seems unnecessary…until the stalking begins. Reid’s in the security business, but keeping Eve safe is all too personal. Their friendship means everything to him, especially once it starts turning into so much more. He refuses to take a chance on losing the woman who has always been important to him…and now it’s time to prove it.

Deadly Rodeo Threat By Sami A. Abrams

A trail of missing women
leads him right into a killer’s trap.

When his twin sister disappears, Navy SEAL Logan Russell’s search for her leads him deep into the woods, where he finds her best friend in the clutches of a masked assailant. Sheriff Isabelle Sinclair is determined to solve Lisa’s mysterious disappearance the night of her last rodeo—and someone will do anything to keep her from digging too deep. When crucial evidence links Lisa’s case to a string of barrel racers who’ve also vanished, Logan and Izzie fight against the clock to track down a suspected serial killer. But when he sets his sights on Izzie, can they outsmart their enemy before both women end up dead?

Danger Zone By Cindi Myers

Can two K-9s and their handlers

rescue a kidnapped child in the snowy wilderness?

When a young boy is abducted from a Rocky Mountain ski resort, Lily Alton and her K-9 join a dangerous search-and-rescue mission. Ski patrol captain Scott Linden doesn’t think Lily is ready to become part of his elite team. But as they battle the elements together, Lily shows incredible strength under fire…and an unlikely attraction blooms. With their survival skills put to the test, Scott and Lily track a killer through treacherous terrain in a frantic race to find the missing child before it’s too late.

One Scottish Summer By Kate Frost

Sometimes looking back is the only way to move forward…

Tilly Fernsby’s happiest memory is the summer spent on the Isle of Mull with best friend Logan Wray and his aunt Joy, exploring the beautiful Scottish island and making plans and promises for their future.

Returning together nearly fifteen years later after Logan inherits his beloved aunt’s house is a bittersweet experience. Overcome with sadness, they both carry regrets and secrets from that summer.

For Tilly it’s a chance to right a wrong and learn to open her heart without the fear of getting hurt. For Logan it’s an opportunity to make good on a promise while being honest about his true feelings.

With the help of Aunt Joy’s journal filled with lost love, heartfelt words and sage advice, a new dawn of honest emotions emerges to the breath-taking island backdrop of lochs and mountains.

Will Tilly and Logan endure further heartache, or can a summer promise pave a way to everlasting happiness?

Sunk In Love By Heather McBreen

Roslyn and Liam are the perfect couple. Through every up and down, every milestone – from Liam’s residency to the publication of Roslyn’s debut romance – they’ve been each other’s rock. Until now.

Nine years in, and blindsided by the untimely death of Roslyn’s mom, they’re now navigating the final wave in their marriage: divorce.

Heartbroken and unsure how to tell her family, Roslyn keeps the impending split to herself. But when her grandparents ask if Liam can officiate their vow renewal ceremony aboard a Hawaiian cruise during their annual family holiday, Roslyn needs to tell the truth or figure out a way to keep her secret.

A week trapped at sea with her ex isn’t ideal, but neither Roslyn nor Liam want to rock the boat, so they concoct a plan – they’ll fake it. After five years of marriage, it can’t be that hard to pretend, right?

But with reality and make believe starting to blur, and old feelings beginning to resurface that can’t be ignored, Roslyn and Liam must decide whether it’s sink or swim for their marriage.

Review Card & Book Review – A Rookie Mistake By Laura Carter

It was all part of the game plan – so why are their hearts offside?

Kansas Harris – Sas for short – has the potential to be the best agent at her father’s sports agency, and she’s figured out exactly how she’s going to prove that: by giving disgraced football star Colton Quinn an image overhaul.

Colton may have got himself in hot water during the off-season, but only he knows the real story behind what happened. Regardless, he needs to pick up his game or risk getting left off the active roster – or worse.

Leaving behind all she knows in New York, Sas arrives in Texas with a surefire plan to save Colton’s career as quickly as possible. But when she gets to know the real Colton, that may be easier said than done.

She says she’s staying in the south strictly as his agent but Colton knows how to read a play and he’s about to call her bluff.

About The Author

My Review

This is a sharp, sexy sports romance that delivers both heat and heart. Laura Carter pairs the high stakes of professional football with an emotionally layered love story, making this more than just a steamy fling read.

Kansas “Sas” Harris is a fiercely capable agent striving to prove herself in an industry where her father’s reputation looms large. Enter Colton Quinn, a football star trying to rebuild his tarnished image. Their partnership starts as business, but sparks quickly fly as they challenge each other in ways neither expects. What sets the novel apart is the depth beneath the banter—Colton isn’t just an athlete with a bad-boy reputation; his vulnerabilities and family struggles make him compelling. Sas, meanwhile, shines in her determination, wit, and refusal to let the men around her define her.

Though the pacing dips slightly mid-story and the makeover/fake dating trope is familiar, Carter injects enough freshness to keep the romance engaging. With sizzling chemistry, playful dialogue, and emotional resonance, A Rookie Mistake is a winning pick for sports romance fans craving spice, redemption, and genuine character growth.

My Rating

Link To Purchase

Happy Publication Day – 23 February 2026

The Cottage At The Edge Of The Woods By Jane Lovering

When single mum Libby is offered a life-changing sum of money to clear out an old cottage in the woods, she expects dust and decay. She doesn’t expect a house full of secrets, a room full of birds, and a woman who refuses to leave.

The handsome but stressed architect who hired Libby is also a puzzle. Why can’t Ross empty Elm Cottage himself? What can he possibly see in Libby, who has been burned by love and is wary of attachment? How can they persuade the mysterious but kindly Isobel to move on?

As Libby is pulled into the cottage’s story, she must face up to her own deepest fears. Can she help Isobel, fight the past that haunts her, and learn to open her own heart to love once more?

Some houses won’t let go of the past. Some people won’t, either…

Review Card & Book Review- Christmas At The French Repair Shop By Sophie Claire

❄️ Can they patch up their broken hearts this Christmas?❄️

Christmas in the picturesque village of Willowbrook should be dreamy – twinkling fairylights, snow in the air, and a busy time for Amélie in the repair workshop she owns, restoring furniture and mending treasured objects for locals to give as Christmas gifts. But in the tiny community, Amélie keeps bumping into her ex, Jack – and it’s killing her festive feeling.

Jack and Amélie were perfect for each other… until one day they weren’t. And when Jack’s attempt at reconciliation goes wrong, he finds himself locked in Amélie’s van.

Driving to her aunt’s house in the South of France, Amélie thinks she’s finally going to get some peace over the festive period, but like it or not, she’ll now be spending Christmas trapped on holiday with Jack. Could it help unwrap the secret to why they split up? Or will it be a gift they’d rather exchange?

About The Author

My Review

This promises a festive escape with its blend of small-town charm, second chances, and a holiday trip to the South of France. Amélie, who runs a sentimental little repair shop in Willowbrook, is determined to enjoy a peaceful Christmas away from her persistent ex, Jack. But fate—and a van mishap—forces them into an unexpected holiday together, where old wounds and lingering feelings resurface.

The premise is fun and filled with festive potential: cozy village life, a French countryside setting, and the possibility of romance rekindled during Christmas. However, while the story has heart, the execution falls a little short of delivering that magical, warm glow readers often seek in seasonal romances. Amélie feels like a capable heroine, but the chemistry between her and Jack never quite sparks. His jokey, sometimes childish behavior undermines the emotional weight of their relationship, making the reconciliation feel less convincing.

Though the book has enjoyable moments and a charming backdrop, it doesn’t fully capture the cozy, romantic spirit of Christmas. It’s a pleasant read, but one that may not leave you with the lasting festive glow of other holiday romances.

My Rating

Link To Purchase

Review Card & Book Review – Christmas At Hollybush Farm By Jo Thomas

Jemima Jones is driving home to her family’s magical hill-top farm for Christmas…

And on arrival, she soon learns that her dad has been keeping a secret – all is not as it seems, and Hollybush Farm is struggling to make ends meet! Worried about losing the childhood home she loves, Jemima must pull on her winter wellies and get stuck in.

Amid the chaos of chasing after escaping sheep and organising the Christmas tractor run, Jemima begins documenting her slice of farming life on social media. As she builds a supportive online following, she also forms an offline connection in the shape of charming, retired rugby player Llew, her very own Santa’s helper.

With a sprinkle of festive cheer and a dash of goodwill, might the community pull together to help save the farm in time for Christmas?

About The Author

My Review

Jo Thomas delivers a heartfelt and timely festive romance in Christmas at Hollybush Farm, blending love, community, and the challenges of modern farming into a warm and uplifting story.

At its heart is Jemima Jones, a strong, resilient heroine who returns home for Christmas with her boyfriend Matthew, only to discover her family farm is in crisis. Determined not to lose the place that shaped her, Jemima steps up with grit, creativity, and community spirit. From inventive new ventures to embracing the power of social media, she embodies the drive of today’s farmers—unsung heroes often overlooked despite their essential role.

The romance between Jemima and ex-rugby player Llew adds plenty of warmth. Unlike dismissive Matthew, Llew truly understands her connection to the land, and their chemistry grows beautifully amidst snowstorms, farm struggles, and festive traditions. Supporting characters, from Jemima’s family to lively locals like Evie, add humor, heart, and depth to the village atmosphere.

Thomas balances festive charm with important reflections on food, farming, and resilience. Cozy, romantic, and thought-provoking, this novel is the perfect seasonal read—and a celebration of the quiet strength that keeps communities thriving.

My Rating

Link To Purchase

Review Card & Book Review – Christmas Fling By Lindsey Kelk

Is a fake boyfriend really just for Christmas?

One fake romance. One magical Christmas. One chance to fall in love.

Laura was all set for a quiet solo Christmas – just her, a bottle of wine, and flat-sitting for a stranger. But when the stranger’s parents mistake her for his mystery girlfriend, she’s swept off to the snowy Scottish Highlands with Callum and his whole family.

Between the cosy sleeper train, charming pubs and breathtaking views, this could be the no-strings-attached Christmas of Laura’s dreams.

But stranger Callum is hot, hilarious and their ‘fake’ chemistry is off the charts.

So is this just a Christmas fling? Or the start of something more?

About The Author

My Review

The novel follows Laura, who plans on a quiet, solitary Christmas until an unexpected run-in with her landlord, Callum, changes everything. When his parents arrive unannounced and mistake Laura for his girlfriend, she goes along with the charade. Soon, what begins as a spur-of-the-moment lie spirals into a full-blown holiday adventure in the Scottish Highlands, complete with family traditions, festive chaos, and the unmistakable chemistry between Laura and Callum.

Kelk shines in her signature banter, delivering laugh-out-loud moments alongside a wonderfully cozy backdrop that feels straight out of a Christmas movie. Laura is a relatable, capable heroine whose charm keeps the story grounded, while the fake-dating trope adds plenty of playful tension. If there’s a drawback, it’s that some hijinks run a bit over the top and Callum’s character could use more depth. Still, Christmas Fling is a delightful, feel-good rom-com perfect for curling up with during the holidays.

This is a story that sparkles with humor, heart, and just the right touch of holiday magic.

My Rating

Link To Purchase

Review Card & Book Review – A Scottish Christmas Hideaway By Ellie Henderson

One snowy village. Two guarded hearts. A Christmas they’ll never forget.

After a year of burying her heartbreak in endless work, Jessica Stewart returns to her childhood home in the Scottish village of Rowan Bay. She hopes the Christmas lights and familiar faces will help her rediscover the woman she used to be.

She doesn’t expect Reuben Campbell.

Once her brother’s infuriating best friend — the boy who teased her endlessly — Reuben is now a ruggedly handsome architect with an easy charm. And he’s suddenly everywhere Jessica turns.

As the village prepares for Christmas, Jessica and Reuben find themselves sharing frost-bitten walks, fairy-lit evenings and gingerbread house disasters. The spark between them is impossible to ignore and Reuben’s steady presence begins to melt the walls Jessica has spent so long building.

But Jessica came home to escape complications — and Reuben, for all his warmth, is hiding heartbreak and secrets of his own.

As Christmas approaches can two people with every reason to resist each other finally give in to a second chance neither saw coming?

About The Author

My Review

This is a charming festive escape set in the picturesque Scottish village of Rowan Bay. After a year of heartbreak, Jessica Stewart returns home, hoping to find comfort in the familiar warmth of Christmas traditions. What she doesn’t expect is to reconnect with Reuben Campbell—her brother’s childhood friend, once a playful nuisance, now a rugged architect who stirs feelings she never anticipated.

The heart of this novel lies in its setting. Henderson’s descriptions of snowy streets, glittering lights, and cozy gatherings capture the magic of Christmas in Scotland so vividly that Rowan Bay feels like a place readers will long to visit. Jessica’s family adds even more warmth, bringing humor, love, and a sense of belonging that perfectly complements the season’s spirit.

The romance between Jessica and Reuben unfolds gently, weaving past memories with the promise of second chances. Their shared history and personal struggles make their connection feel relatable and genuine, adding depth to the festive charm.

Overall, it is a heartwarming holiday story full of family, community, and a slow-burn romance perfect for curling up with by the fire.

My Rating

Link To Purchase

Review Card & Book Review- The Holiday Hookup List By Alexis Daria

Valencia

After calling it quits with my cheating fiancé, I’m definitely not feeling the Christmas spirit this year. But when my best friend invites me to a holiday dance party, I show up ready to shake my ass.

Except I must be on Santa’s naughty list, because who do I run into? My infuriatingly sexy high school archnemesis, Gideon Noble.

The pulsing music, red and green strobe lights, and Gideon’s bitable bottom lip make me reckless, so I drag him onto the dance floor.

And then? I take him home with me.

Gideon

If this is my second chance with Valencia, I’m not wasting it.

We’re both alone this Christmas, so we create a naughty and nice list that would make Santa blush: twelve days of wholesome yuletide cheer, and twelve nights decking each other’s halls.

As Christmas Eve, and the end of our list, approaches, I realize that twelve days with Valencia Torres isn’t enough.

I want forever.

But does she?

About The Author

My Review

The story follows Valencia, an EPA lawyer, who unexpectedly reunites with her former high school rival, Gideon, during a night out in New York. What begins as a chance encounter and one-night hookup quickly develops into a spirited arrangement: twelve days of holiday outings by day paired with an adventurous intimacy bucket list by night. The result is equal parts “Hallmark after dark” and heartwarming romance.

Daria skillfully balances lighthearted festive fun with deeper themes, including family complications, past betrayals, and the vulnerabilities of starting over. The chemistry between Valencia and Gideon is undeniable, and the intimacy is not only passionate but also refreshingly mutual and exploratory.

What particularly sets this novella apart is its casual queer and Latine representation, offering an inclusive and modern take on holiday romance. The Holiday Hookup List is both sexy and heartfelt, making it a perfect seasonal read for those seeking something vibrant, diverse, and delightfully unconventional.

My Rating

Link To Purchase