Book Review – My Sanctuary

Review Card & Book Review- Thirty Flirty And Forever Alone By Christine Riccio

When your name literally means “forever alone,” it takes a lot of positive self-talk to stay optimistic in the hellscape that is dating. But on the cusp of thirty, Rikki Romona is determined to find her person.

Columnist, therapist, podcaster, entrepreneur—Rikki is an overachiever who thrives on schedules. She can absolutely handle two weddings in two days, and lock down someone to drag along as a plus-one.

And yet, spoiler: She doesn’t.

Rikki finds herself flying hopelessly solo at a themed wedding in New Jersey. A lonely Rapunzel waiting for her Flynn.

Enter Reed Tyler: writer, podcast producer, wannabe actor. Surprisingly single with startling blue eyes, he seems perfect. The catch? He lives kind of far away, so dating him would be a bit of a hike. Like an intense, all-the-way-across-the-country hike.

After one unforgettable night together, Rikki’s sure this is the end. But as she braces herself for heartache, the universe, it seems, has other plans…

About The Author

My Review

This blends contemporary romance with gentle magical realism to create a story that is both playful and emotionally thoughtful. At its heart is Rikki Romona, a heroine navigating the challenges of a long-distance relationship while also confronting her own fears, insecurities, and patterns of self-sabotage. Though the novel includes elements of wish fulfillment—supportive friends, an accommodating partner, and even the universe seemingly rooting for her—it never loses its emotional sincerity. Instead, it feels like a personal exploration of what it means to be truly ready for love.

Riccio’s writing voice is the book’s strongest asset: warm, humorous, and sharply observant. Her portrayal of emotional messiness, especially from a woman’s perspective, feels honest and relatable. While the plot grows somewhat loose in the second half, that uncertainty mirrors Rikki’s internal journey and ultimately strengthens the theme of personal growth. What begins as an idealized, cinematic romance gradually transforms into a deeper meditation on self-discovery, emotional readiness, and the work required to build lasting love. The result is a charming, heartfelt novel with a satisfying emotional payoff.

My Rating

Link To Purchase

Amazon

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Review Card & Book Review – Run For Your Life Callie Kingman By Alli Frank & Asha Youmans

Two decades have passed since Callie Kingman begrudgingly followed her husband, Thomas, across the country in pursuit of his career at the expense of her own. Today, Callie is an empty nester with no job prospects, a declining mother, and a spouse who announces his intention to leave her—in Sacramento, the dullest city in America. His parting potshot: “It’s not me, it’s you.”

Taking to bed, Callie relies on delivery for food, her neighbor for booze, and her college best friend for commiseration. When an overdue annual exam leads to a health scare, Callie is forced to contend with her fractured and unfulfilled life by revisiting the vibrant, indomitable woman she used to be.

From her idyllic years at Princeton and an extraordinary first love to the pressures all women face to strive, serve, and be sexy as hell, once again she’s face-to-face with it all. Callie is running for her life, determined to forge a path ahead that is better than the one she’s leaving behind.

About The Author

My Review

This book begins with a devastating blow: Callie Kingman’s husband, Thomas, reveals he’s leaving her for someone else—and that they’re expecting a child. Callie, who sacrificed her journalism career to follow Thomas to Sacramento, faces the collapse of the life she thought she wanted. A health scare propels her from grief into a reckoning, forcing her to confront who she truly wants to be.

Unfortunately, Callie’s journey doesn’t land as strongly as it could. Unlike the strong, spirited women typically found in this writing duo’s previous works, Callie often comes across as passive and pitiful, making it hard to fully invest in her story. Her reconnection with an old love further complicates matters, as he lacks the charm or relatability needed to make their romance compelling.

While the book contains glimpses of heartfelt emotion and personal growth, the characters’ dynamics and pacing struggle to maintain engagement. Fans of the authors’ more uplifting and witty novels may find this entry disappointing, though it’s clear the writers’ talent still shines through. I’ll be curious to see how they bounce back in future projects.

My Rating

Link To Purchase

Amazon

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Review Card & Book Review- Just Add Happiness By Julie Hatcher

At forty-six, Sophie Bianco’s life is half baked—trapped in a controlling marriage and estranged from her critical mother. Her only solace? The Invisible Baker, her secret business helping overwhelmed moms create Pinterest-worthy moments.

When her mother’s death coincides with the last straw in her marriage, Sophie grabs her chance. Armed with divorce papers and her savings, she reclaims her childhood home. But freedom comes with complications: hoarder-level chaos, plumbing disasters, and an ex-husband plotting revenge. When her daughter announces an engagement that echoes Sophie’s own mistakes, the past threatens to repeat itself.

Desperate for income, Sophie takes a position as a pastry chef, finding unexpected sweetness in both the work and the charming restaurant owner. But as family drama and professional opportunities collide, Sophie must finally answer the question she’s been avoiding: Who is she when she’s no longer invisible?

About The Author

My Review

This captivated me with its story of a woman reclaiming her life and refusing to settle for less than she deserves. Sophie Bianco’s journey from heartbreak to self-discovery is at the heart of this novel, and it’s both messy and inspiring. Julie Hatcher balances humor, vulnerability, and genuine emotional growth, making Sophie’s transformation feel authentic rather than tidy or predictable.

Sophie, along with her daughter Camilla and friend Alicia, are characters you can easily root for. Each brings warmth and energy, though Sophie’s perspective as the narrator is especially compelling—her mix of flaws and virtues makes her deeply relatable. Even Raisin, the family cat, steals scenes with effortless charm. The ex-husband, while clearly the antagonist, is portrayed a little too perfectly, lacking nuance, yet he serves his role effectively.

The pacing wavers in the middle, reflecting Sophie’s emotional swings during her divorce, but the story regains momentum and keeps you engaged to the end. Fans of chick lit, especially readers of Sophie Kinsella and Sophie Ranald, will find this warm-hearted, uplifting tale a delightful, feel-good read.

My Rating

Link To Purchase

Amazon

Barnes & Noble

Review Card & Book Review- Champagne Taste On A Bad Boy Budget By Zuri Day

She’s a good girl trying to rebuild her restaurant.
He’s a felon trying to rebuild…everything.
Second chances have never been so sweet.

For Jamilah Carver, a by-the-books entrepreneur with refined tastes, running her own restaurant has been a dream come true. Until she’s buried in debt and without a chef, her once-bustling eatery on the brink of collapse. Enter Rashad White, a newly released ex-con who happens to be a culinary genius…and likes to play by his own rules.

With nothing in common but their love for food, the two clash at every turn. But when they’re not bickering over menu items or cooking methods, neither can deny the attraction that simmers between them. After Rashad proposes a daring plan, they’ll have to put their differences aside to work together—that’s when things really start heating up in the kitchen.

Can two completely different people, from two completely opposite worlds, find the perfect recipe for a fresh start…and maybe even love?

About The Author

My Review

This is a compelling workplace romance that blends heat, heart, and social commentary. At its core, it’s a story of opposites attracting: Jamilah, a sheltered and strait-laced restaurant owner, and Rashad, a reformed ex-con striving to build a legitimate life as a chef after serving multiple prison sentences. Rashad relocates to the Midwest to start fresh, while Jamilah’s restaurant faces mounting struggles, forcing her to hire him despite the tension of boss-employee dynamics and her father’s controlling interference.

Rashad is the standout character—determined, talented, and deeply passionate, both in the kitchen and through his love of rap. His perseverance and consistency not only drive the story forward but ultimately save Jamilah’s business, showcasing strong character growth. Jamilah, in contrast, often feels judgmental and entitled, with her development slower and less satisfying.

The romance is spicy, well-paced, and grounded in realistic challenges, while the supporting cast adds depth and texture. Beyond the love story, the novel thoughtfully explores redemption, societal biases, and the struggle of rebuilding a life after incarceration, making it both entertaining and thought-provoking.

My Rating

Link To Purchase

Review Card & Book Review – Rescuing Her Firefighter By Carol Ross

Not every hero…

Wears a uniform

Brooke Lawson refuses to let her troubled past stop her from making her mark in Flame, Texas. The close-knit community is exactly the fresh start she needs. Great new job, caring new friends—her only problem is the series of mortifying scrapes she finds herself in. Being frequently rescued by Michael Barnes, the small town’s handsomest firefighter, does have its upside. His warmth and humor set him apart from every man she’s ever met. But when his large, ready-made family starts interfering, will she be the one to rescue him? And will their special spark continue to shine?

About The Author

My Review

This is a warm, uplifting small-town romance filled with kindness, community, and second chances. Brooke arrives in Flame, Texas hoping for a fresh start—if only temporarily—after life has knocked her down more than once. Determined to succeed in her new parks and recreation job, she keeps pushing forward despite a string of mishaps that seem to land her in trouble at every turn.

Enter Michael, the dependable local firefighter who repeatedly comes to Brooke’s rescue, both literally and emotionally. Their connection sparks quickly, but Ross takes care to ground their romance in genuine vulnerability. Brooke’s self-doubt and hope are deeply relatable, while Michael’s steady confidence and emotional openness make him a refreshing hero. It’s especially satisfying to see the male lead take the initiative when it comes to expressing his feelings.

The small-town setting shines, complete with nosy neighbors, friendly faces, and Michael’s close-knit family playing an important role in Brooke’s healing journey. When elements from Brooke’s past threaten her new beginning, the relationship is tested in believable ways. Sweet, comforting, and heartfelt, this story is perfect for readers who enjoy gentle romance, supportive heroes, and the charm of small-town life.

My Rating

Link To Purchase

Review Card & Book Review- The Dating Game By Mona Shroff

A fake romance will solve all their problems

…And stir up a bunch of new ones!

Veterinary student Saira Rawal definitely believes in love. It’s just…not for her. Not when getting through her days without panic attacks is struggle enough. But at least she has Tyler Hart—her brother’s best friend, who has always been her safe space. He even takes her in when she and her disaster of a therapy puppy need somewhere to stay! So when she can return the favor, helping him save face with his brother by pretending they’re together, she steps right up. With a pretend relationship, it’s not like there’s any chance of someone really getting hurt…right?

About The Author

My Review

This is a heartfelt, emotionally layered romance that blends family tension, fake engagement hijinks, and long-suppressed feelings. Tyler Hart has lived in the shadow of his older brother Colton since their parents’ divorce, constantly made to feel lesser. When Colton arrives unexpectedly with his new fiancée—who happens to be Tyler’s ex—the old wounds are instantly reopened.

Enter Saira Rawal, Tyler’s longtime friend and his best friend’s little sister. When she needs a place to stay after being evicted for owning a dog, Tyler steps in without hesitation. Faced with Colton’s smug visit and Rita’s presence, Saira impulsively claims she and Tyler are engaged, setting off a chain of emotional fallout and family drama. The fake engagement forces Tyler and Saira to confront the feelings they’ve both been carefully avoiding for years.

Shroff excels at balancing romance with depth, thoughtfully addressing serious themes—particularly mental health—without overwhelming the story. The chemistry between Tyler and Saira feels earned, rooted in years of friendship and quiet longing. As the final installment in the Once Upon a Wedding series, this novel is both satisfying and touching, leaving readers deeply connected to its characters and hopeful for more.

My Rating

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Happy Publication Day – 23 April 2026

Happy Ever After At Samphire Bay By Sasha Morgan

It will take the whole village to help this couple find their happy ending…

When doctor Tara moves to Samphire Bay, local builder Jack is lovestruck for the first time in his life. But despite his determination to get to know her and her young son, Calum, Tara resists Jack’s charms. Not only does she have a complicated relationship with her ex, Calum’s dad, but he bitterly regrets letting Tara go and is making himself a nuisance in her new life.

Jack is set on proving to her that he’s here for good – not just for Tara, but also for Calum. The three quickly become inseparable, but more obstacles lie in their way. Family secrets and skeletons in the closet might just break Jack and Tara’s relationship, unless they can find a way to overcome their pasts for a future together.

Will Jack and Tara find their happy-ever-after in Samphire Bay?

Safe Haven By Lily Parker

. . . Welcome to Cedar Shores. Your new small-town obsession!

She’s the queen of heartbreak.
He’s the one who got away.

Bailey Jones built a career writing love stories about brooding heroes. But in real life she’s never had her own happily ever after.

Not with him.

Rhett Monroe was her first love. The boy who used to toss her into the lake every summer — and the man who walked away without looking back.

Now he’s back — ex–Navy SEAL turned security specialist. Focused. Intense. And he’s not here for the memories.

Because someone is watching Bailey.
Sending messages that feel a little too personal. Too obsessed.
And Rhett is not letting her out of his sight.

He takes her to the one place a stalker won’t find her — Cedar Shores. But for Bailey, being stuck in close quarters with the man she never stopped wanting is far from simple. Especially when Rhett watches her like she’s something worth guarding. Like she’s his.

The tension that used to simmer between them now crackles. Every argument is charged with desire. Every touch lingers. And every heated look dares her to remember how good they could be.

She’s spent her career writing men who would burn the world down for the woman they love.

Review Card & Book Review- How To Fake Date Her Billionaire By Clare Miles

They’re crossing a billion-dollar boundary…

Heiress Eleanor Ainsworth’s secret to survival? Never fall in love. Only one person ever challenged that: billionaire Nic Kosmas, the childhood best friend she once dated for six sizzling months. So, when she returns to London to help launch a foundation honouring Nic’s late father, temptation follows… And after a stolen clinch lands them in the tabloids, the only solution to protect Nic’s family legacy is a fake relationship! Yet, as the line between façade and feelings blurs, Ellie’s in danger of breaking her golden rule…

About The Author

My Review

This is an emotionally rich, sensual romance built on longing, unresolved hurt, and the irresistible pull of second chances. Eleanor Ainsworth grew up under the harsh glare of paparazzi and parental conflict, shaping rigid life rules—chief among them, never fall in love. The Kosmas family became her safe haven, especially Nic, with whom she once shared an intense connection before fear sent her fleeing to Australia.

Years later, Ellie’s return to London to help launch a foundation honoring Nic’s late father forces them back into close proximity. The chemistry between Ellie and Nic is immediate and undeniable, made even more complicated by paparazzi photos that push them into a fake relationship for the foundation’s sake. What begins as pretense quickly blurs as old feelings resurface and truths long buried demand to be faced.

Miles excels at weaving emotional depth with sizzling tension. Ellie’s vulnerability and Nic’s quiet devotion make them deeply relatable, while the supporting cast and glamorous settings add warmth and texture. This is a moving, heartfelt story about healing, trust, and choosing love despite fear—highly recommended for fans of fake dating and second-chance romance.

My Rating

Link To Purchase

Review Card & Book Review- Cinderella’s Bargain With The Billionaire By Mariah Ankenman

SWIPE RIGHT FOR THE ONE?

Event planner Marissa can’t afford distractions—certainly not strangers she’s set up with against her will! Accidental date Rory is heart-poundingly handsome but extremely unamused by the mix-up. At least she’ll never see him again… Only it turns out he’s her fledgling company’s first client! Marissa just has to stand the buttoned-up billionaire long enough to plan a glamorous charity gala, then they’re done. Yet as she sees beneath his stern exterior, dislike melts into something more dangerous…and she’s soon wishing their contract could last forever!

About The Author

My Review

This is a charming, emotionally grounded romance that balances modern tropes with heartfelt depth. The story opens with an awkward—but memorable—meet-cute when Marissa discovers her teenage sister posed as her on a dating app, leading to a disastrous first impression with Rory. Things grow even more complicated when Rory turns out to be a key client for Marissa’s new event-planning business, forcing proximity despite mutual attraction and lingering tension.

One of the novel’s greatest strengths is its thoughtful representation of Marissa’s medical condition, POTS, which is handled with care and realism. Rory’s tragic backstory adds emotional weight, while the secondary characters—especially cousin Kell, sister Abby, and best friend Nora—bring warmth and humor. The dating app concept, which matches users based on hobbies and lifestyle, is particularly fun, allowing Marissa and Rory to bond over puzzles and games in a natural, endearing way.

The central conflict involving Marissa’s father’s gambling addiction is compelling, though it could have benefited from more on-page interaction. While the story leans on familiar romance clichés, the chemistry and heart ultimately make this an enjoyable and satisfying read.

My Rating

Link To Purchase

Review Card & Book Review – Sicilian Devil’s Prisoner By Caitlin Crews

Is she his ruin…
or his redemption?

Jovi D’Amato doesn’t show mercy. He is ice-cold, ruthless and relentless. He is the deadly weapon of the Il Serpente crime syndicate, forged in the brutal aftermath of his family’s murder. Then he’s sent to kidnap Ruxandra Ardelean. In a single heartbeat she detonates his entire existence…

Salvation isn’t something Rux thought possible until Jovi takes her prisoner. The dangerous Sicilian should terrify her. Instead, he thrills her. She comes alive under his shamelessly sinful touch. Though for Jovi to make her his, he’ll have to burn his whole world down…

About The Author

My Review

This is a dark, emotionally charged romance that blends danger, fatalism, and unexpected tenderness. Jovi, a lethal enforcer molded by his ruthless uncle, is sent to kill Rux—a woman who has spent her life waiting to be traded or destroyed for power. What makes their first meeting unforgettable is Rux’s eerie calm; she greets her would-be killer with resignation rather than fear, sparking sharp banter and instant intrigue.

Crews excels at pairing two characters who mirror each other’s emotional imprisonment. Rux has long accepted her lack of agency, while Jovi has been weaponized by grief and manipulation. As their connection deepens, Jovi’s threats grow hollow, replaced by a fierce desire to make Rux choose life—and love. Their escape to Sicily provides a quieter, more intimate interlude, rich with longing and fragile hope, even as danger looms.

The romance unfolds with intensity and urgency, driven by the inevitability of Antonio’s pursuit. While steeped in dark tropes, the story ultimately shines in its exploration of choice, healing, and defiance. Fans of high-stakes, emotionally resonant romances will find this a compelling and satisfying read.

My Rating