April 16, 2026 – My Sanctuary

Review Card & Book Review- Snowbound And Royally Forbidden By Maya Blake

Protected by his royal vow
Trapped by desire!

Prince Valenti Domene has played protector all his life. First to his brother, heir to the Cartana throne, now as a billion-dollar security consultant. But when it comes to his headstrong ward, Lotte Lillegrad, his protective instincts take on a provocative edge. The most honorable solution is keeping watch from afar…

Yet after Lotte’s life is threatened, Valenti must whisk her to his Icelandic hideaway out of harm’s way. And, while snowbound, keeping his forbidden cravings under control is hard enough… without an emboldened Lotte disclosing her own intoxicating attraction—to him!

About The Author

My Review

This book delivers a lush, emotional, and intensely passionate romance that feels wonderfully reminiscent of classic Harlequin Presents—yet with the polished flair of Maya Blake’s modern storytelling. As the third book in the Royals of Cartana series, it stands firmly on its own, but Lotte and Valenti’s dynamic is compelling enough to make readers eager to explore the earlier installments.

Valenti is the quintessential protective hero—powerful, controlled, and determined to uphold his duty as Lotte’s guardian, even as his feelings for her edge into forbidden territory. His conflict between honor and desire is palpable, giving the story a rich emotional tension. Lotte, though younger, is refreshingly self-aware. She knows exactly who—and what—she wants, and her determination adds depth rather than impulsiveness.

When danger forces them into close proximity, their simmering chemistry ignites into a full blaze. The snowbound setting amplifies both vulnerability and intimacy, creating a deliciously charged atmosphere where secrets and emotions can no longer hide.

Beautifully written, sensual, and emotionally satisfying, this is a story of longing finally unleashed. Fans of protective heroes, forbidden attraction, and slow-burning passion will thoroughly enjoy Lotte and Valenti’s unforgettable romance.

My Rating

Link To Purchase

Happy Publication Day – 16 April 2026

Stirring Up A Love Storm By Amelia Berry

Can he cook his way into her heart?

Darcy is still reeling after the death of her beloved husband, the Baron of Lowbridge, eighteen months ago. He is the reason she left New York for the Scottish Highlands and now she feels lost.

When feisty chef Nate arrives at Lowbridge, she takes against him immediately. He is cocky and brash and the two of them do not see eye to eye on anything. He is, however, brilliant, and over time, despite herself, Darcy feels drawn to him.

But he is 15 years her junior, and she is not ready to move on. Can she have a second chance at love?

Review Card & Book Review – The Wild Card By Carolyn Brown

Professional poker player Carla Wilson’s luck runs dry in Tucson, leaving her with nothing but an SUV running on fumes and a deed to the Tumbleweed Bus Stop and Diner in small-town Texas. Her plan to sell the café and move on seems simple enough—until she meets the motherly cook who rules the kitchen with an iron skillet and the sunny waitress who treats her like a sister.

Then there’s Jackson Armstrong. The ex-military heir of a wealthy oil family has green eyes that make Carla forget her cards and a smile that suggests he’s playing for keeps. With a pair of matchmaking senior citizens and the café’s morning regulars cheering from the sidelines, Carla’s wandering soul begins to feel at home.

Now she’s discovering everything she never knew she needed—true friendship, a place to belong, and a love worth going all in for. Maybe Lady Luck knew exactly what she was doing from the start.

About The Author

My Review

The Wild Card is Carolyn Brown at her warmest and most heartfelt, delivering a story that blends humor, healing, and the power of chosen family. Carla Wilson, a lifelong wanderer shaped by loss and the unpredictable world of poker, arrives in Tumbleweed, Texas with every intention of selling the rundown diner she’s won and disappearing back into her nomadic life. But Tumbleweed—and the remarkable women who call it home—have other plans.

Brown excels at writing characters who feel lived-in and emotionally honest, and Carla’s journey from guarded loner to someone who discovers connection, purpose, and belonging is both touching and rewarding. Rosie, Scarlett, Ada Lou, Nancy, and Jackson create a rich tapestry of community around her, offering warmth, humor, and the kind of steadfast support Carla never knew she needed.

While there’s a whisper of romance and a few cozy cowboy elements, the novel shines brightest as a celebration of friendship, empowerment, and women lifting each other up. With its snowstorms, small-town charm, and signature Carolyn Brown heart, The Wild Card is a comforting, character-driven read that leaves you smiling.

My Rating