Category Archives: Book Review

Review Card & Book Review – The Forever Wedding Date By Tif Marcelo

He tried to play Cupid…

But was he playing with fire?

Wedding planner Gabriella Espiritu’s down on her luck: first, she flunks the CPA exam, then her long-distance internet boyfriend vanishes just before her brother’s wedding! Fortunately, Gabby’s best friend, Chip Lowry, jumps in as matchmaker. Unbeknownst to Gabby, though, Chip’s been crushing on her for years! And the more he tries to play Cupid, the more he falls under the spell of his lovely friend. But he can’t help fearing that finally baring his soul to his bestie would destroy everything…or is going from friends to lovers a leap worth taking?

About The Author

My Review

Gabby is reeling after being ghosted by her internet boyfriend right before her brother’s wedding. Life feels like a mess, and she’s bracing herself for an awkward, lonely few days. Enter Chip—her steady, dependable best friend—who swoops in with a plan to help salvage her pride and lift her spirits. But his support comes with some unexpected complications, namely: Gabby’s sudden awareness of how attractive, attentive, and undeniably charming Chip truly is.

Chip, for his part, has been harboring deeper feelings for Gabby for a while. His quiet longing and subtle gestures paint him as the kind of romantic hero who wins your heart through patience and sincerity rather than grand declarations. Watching him wrestle with the fear of losing their friendship if he confesses the truth adds an emotional depth to his character.

The chemistry between Gabby and Chip grows naturally and believably. The stakes feel real—this isn’t just a fling, it’s a relationship that could change everything for both of them. Their journey is sweet, awkward, honest, and full of moments that will make readers smile and sigh in equal measure. This is a delightful friends-to-lovers romance with emotional depth, witty dialogue, and a couple worth rooting for.

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Review Card & Book Review- Marriage Made In Hate By Julia James

You can’t escape the enemy…
when you’re his wife!

After she spent a lifetime destitute and alone, Bianca Mason’s delight at discovering the family she never knew existed turns to dismay. Her dying grandfather commands her to wed Luca D’Alabruschi. The ruthless Italian who once put his billions and his privilege before her…

Though she has no choice but to act the benevolent bride-to-be, Bianca won’t forgive or forget the pain Luca caused. Except as each day passes, more memories of their ill-advised affair return… And it’s clear the hate between them is only hiding the agonizing passion still simmering beneath!

About The Author

My Review

Luca is a man of power and control, and from the start, he fits the mold of the brooding, emotionally detached alpha male. Unfortunately, for much of the book, he veers closer to cruel than compelling. His treatment of Bianca—dismissing her feelings, belittling her intelligence, and ignoring her worth—makes it difficult to root for their reunion. While there is some softening by the end, for readers who value emotionally satisfying redemption arcs, Luca’s transformation may feel too little, too late.

Bianca, on the other hand, is the heart of the story. Initially naive and in love, she suffers heartbreak but refuses to let it define her. Her growth over the years—pursuing education, building confidence, and developing a stronger sense of self—is genuinely admirable. When her circumstances change and she’s thrust into a marriage of convenience with the very man who once broke her, Bianca doesn’t wilt—she challenges him. She’s a well-rounded heroine whose journey is worth following, even when the romance feels lopsided.

The plot offers plenty of dramatic tension: revenge, class differences, a surprise inheritance, and a forced marriage. These tropes are handled with flair, and the writing is clean and immersive. James knows how to keep readers turning pages. Yet for those who prefer mutual respect in their romances, the power imbalance and emotional distance may overshadow the book’s strengths.

Marriage Made in Hate delivers high drama, emotional intensity, and a compelling journey of personal growth. While Luca may challenge readers’ patience at times, his evolution adds depth to the story, and Bianca’s strength and resilience shine throughout. If you enjoy fiery enemies-to-lovers romances with complex characters, layered emotions, and a richly dramatic plot, this one offers a rewarding and memorable read.

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Review Card & Book Review- The Soldier By Susan Stoker

When Chad Young moves home, it’s not a decision he makes lightly. A former military man, he doesn’t make any decision lightly. But his father’s passing has left the family—and their business—reeling. Now more than ever, they need to stick together.

Britt Starkweather moved to Maine with her boyfriend, never imagining he’d abandon her there. With no money and nowhere to go, she accepts the Youngs’ offer of a job and room on their property. What more does she have to lose?

Although they just met, Chad makes Britt feel safe in a way no one has before. And she makes him feel things he’d given up on finding. But even as they grow closer, Britt realizes that something is amiss at Lobster Cove…and Chad will do whatever it takes to keep her safe.

About The Author

My Review

Chad Young is a former Army sniper returning home after the death of his father. With his military career behind him, Chad is navigating the emotional challenges of transitioning to civilian life while helping his family run their local businesses. He’s calm, grounded, and fiercely loyal—qualities that make him a compelling hero without leaning into over-the-top alpha tendencies.

Britt Starkweather is down on her luck after her boyfriend abandons her and steals everything she has. Homeless and jobless, she’s sleeping in her car when Chad steps in. What follows is a quietly moving story of kindness and community, as Chad and his family take Britt in and offer her not only stability but a sense of belonging.

The romance between Chad and Britt develops slowly and sweetly. There’s no instant drama or forced conflict—just two people learning to trust again. Their chemistry is gentle and genuine, making their emotional connection feel earned. Britt’s resilience and kindness shine through despite her painful past, while Chad’s protective instincts are warm and sincere, never possessive. The suspense element, centered around theft at the family business, adds just enough tension to keep the plot moving without overpowering the character-driven heart of the story. It also gives Britt a chance to show her strength, not just as a survivor, but as someone who actively protects those who helped her.

Overall, this is a heartwarming small-town romance with a gentle pace, lovable characters, and just the right touch of suspense. Set in a cozy town in Maine, this story blends emotional healing, family loyalty, and second chances into a satisfying read.

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Review Card & Book Review- Rear View By K.C. Harper

Xavier Bosch has yet to find a rally-car course he can’t handle—or a woman he wants to share the road with. He’s worked hard to keep his criminal record a secret, but when the news breaks that his abusive father will soon be released from prison, his past threatens to catch up fast. Letting a woman into his world would only make her a target.

But when a nasty crash brings Ryah Nolan into his life, all bets are off.

Psychology student Ryah Nolan doesn’t trust easy. Not with a professor determined to make her life hell, an ex-boyfriend who isn’t quite an ex…and a terrifying stalker no one but her best friend takes seriously. Letting someone in is a risk. But despite his gruff exterior and need for speed, Xavier makes her feel safe.

The closer Xavier and Ryah become, the more they want to put their pasts in the rear view. As they race the clock and the dangers they’ve run from give chase, one thing is certain—they will win or lose together.

About The Author

My Review

Xavier Bosch is far from your average romantic hero. A rally car driver addicted to speed and haunted by his past, Xavier carries the heavy burden of grief, guilt, and a harrowing family history. His decision to put his abusive father behind bars marks a pivotal and defining part of his character—he’s not just damaged, he’s doing the work to break the cycle. Xavier’s inner struggles add a layer of gritty realism that’s rarely explored so honestly in romance.

Then there’s Ryah Nolan—a psychology student with a soul-deep resilience. For two years, she’s lived in fear, stalked and repeatedly failed by a justice system that’s supposed to protect her. Her journey is both terrifying and infuriating, yet Ryah never reads as a victim—she’s fighting every step of the way. When her path collides with Xavier’s, their bond begins as one of necessity and empathy, but evolves into something beautifully restorative.

The relationship between Xavier and Ryah is anything but rushed. There’s chemistry, yes—but more importantly, there’s time, patience, and emotional nuance. Suspense, romance, and personal growth are perfectly balanced here, with the backdrop of rally racing and psychological tension adding urgency and flair. This is a compelling, emotionally intelligent romance that lingers long after the final page.

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Review Card & Book Review- The Love Fix By Jill Shalvis

Lexi Clark’s life is falling apart!

Summoned home to Sunrise Cove, the last thing she wants to do is face all the complications she left behind. Her past, her stepsister Ashley, and especially her infuriatingly gorgeous childhood nemesis-turned-crush Heath Bowman.

Lexi’s way too focused on her job as an art appraiser, she doesn’t have time to believe in trust, love, or Happily Ever Afters. Her stepsister, on the other hand, is so full of life it hurts to look at her. But Lexi can’t refuse Ashley’s plea to honor their late mother’s final wish. So, on behalf of her estranged mother’s estate-and with Heath in tow as the executor-Lexi embarks on a road trip to repay all the people her gambling addicted mother owed money to.

Soon, all of Lexi’s complicated feelings come to a head; missing her mom, missing Ashley, and most of all, missing Heath. For the record, she doesn’t like it, or the way he has of scaling the walls she’s built around her heart. The road trip shenanigans that ensue are both funny and heartbreaking, but Lexi finds something shocking along the way. Acceptance. Family.

And, unbelievably… love.

About The Author

My Review

At the heart of the novel is Lexi, a woman scarred by a lifetime of disappointment from a mother who seemed more absent than nurturing. Her mother’s death reopens old wounds—but also opens the door to unexpected healing, through a series of letters that pull Lexi back to the one place she never thought she’d return. There, she must face both her estranged sister Ashley and Heath, the man who once stirred her heart.

Lexi is a compelling, layered character—guarded and understandably skeptical, but yearning for something more. Her emotional journey feels authentic as she grapples with grief, betrayal, and the possibility of rebuilding the relationships she once gave up on. Ashley, in contrast, brings a sunny optimism and determination that masks her own secrets and motivations. She’s not just the cheerful sister—she’s a woman with her own version of pain and hope, hoping desperately to create the family she missed out on.

Heath, ever the caretaker, is kind and reliable to a fault. His tendency to prioritize everyone else’s happiness over his own sets up a quietly powerful subplot about self-worth and emotional boundaries. His chemistry with Lexi is slow-burn and believable, rooted in shared history, tension, and unresolved feelings.The emotional weight of the characters’ pasts is balanced by the warmth of their present connections. The letters from their mother serve as a catalyst for truth, healing, and unexpected revelations, giving the story depth and resonance.

This is a heartfelt, character-driven story filled with sorrow, redemption, and hope. It’s about finding love—not just romantically, but in family and in oneself.

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Review Card & Book Review- Rivals To Lovers By Elise Wayland

Mo Denton has been obsessed with the classic feminist novel The Proud and the Lost for as long as she can remember. When Mo puts everything she has into writing a modern adaptation of her all-time favorite book, her agent Yuri loves it—but can’t pitch it anywhere. The original author’s estate must approve any adaptation, and so far, it has never allowed one to go forward.

The agent who represents the estate—Wes Spencer—is also working on an updated version of the beloved story. Promoting Mo’s project would go against Wes’s own interests, and he’s reluctant to bring it to Estelle Morgan, the elderly daughter of the original novelist. But when Yuri contacts Estelle herself, Estelle invites Mo and Wes to her home for a weekend where they will pitch each book to her and let her decide whose book will be approved–and whose work will be destined for deletion.

Soon, Mo and Wes realize that they have more in common than just their love of the original book. As they grow closer and wait for the estate’s decision, will the secrets Wes is keeping ruin the bond between them, or can they find their way to a happy ending?

About The Author

My Review

Rivals to Lovers is a charming enemies-to-lovers romantic comedy featuring two New York-based authors, Maureen (Mo) and Wes, who find themselves in fierce competition to adapt a beloved novel. Despite the rivalry, sparks fly almost immediately, launching them into a whirlwind romance.

Mo and Wes are undeniably adorable together. While Wes may come off a bit prickly at first, he quickly redeems himself, revealing a softer side that balances well with Mo’s vibrant personality. The dual POV format adds depth to their relationship, allowing readers to connect with both characters as their story unfolds.

While the story starts off a bit gently, it builds into a heartfelt and satisfying romance that feels both genuine and charming. The pacing allows readers to settle into Mo and Wes’s world, and the overall tone is light, uplifting, and perfect for anyone in the mood for a bookish romcom with plenty of heart.

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Happy Publication Day – 18 December 2025

The Wife’s Irish Secret By Susanne O’ Leary

When Marian Fleury finds a love letter hidden in her husband Theo’s belongings, her heartbreak puts her on the first plane to Ireland. With her sister Claire’s wedding only a week away, she has the perfect excuse to escape to the Irish coast and decide where her future truly lies…

Marian is shocked by how quickly she adjusts to the beautiful sandy shores, shopping for dresses and collecting roses for the perfect wedding bouquet. As the ocean sparkles before her, the wind soft against her face, she manages to keep the pain Theo has caused her a secret and remembers that as a little girl she always wanted Ireland to be her home.

Yet just as Marian thinks her past is behind her, Theo arrives in town. He begs for her forgiveness, his handsome face and olive skin making her heart race like always, and suddenly she wonders if he might start afresh in the village with her.

But when she stumbles upon the woman her husband was sending letters to, in a beautiful cottage among the wildflowers, Marian learns that Theo has an even bigger secret. Can Marian find the strength to take the next steps in her own life, or is she about to lose everything?

Review Card & Book Review – Will You Stay Another Day? By Samantha Tonge

If you could spend just one more day with someone, who would it be?

When Lili sends a jokey ‘knock-knock’ message to her best friend Em, she doesn’t expect to hear back. Because – as Lili notices the chill in the air, and the little robin in her garden – she realises Christmas must be just around the corner once again. A whole year since she last saw Em.

But then this time someone replies. ‘Who’s there?’ It can’t possibly be Em, but Lili wants to believe it could be, and she hastily suggests meeting.

However when she gets to the meeting place, there only one other person there waiting. A man. And not just any man. The most handsome man Lili’s ever seen, Dylan… And he is also waiting for someone he’s been missing.

As the days get shorter and Autumn turns to Winter, will two lonely hearts spend another Christmas without their loved ones? Or can they welcome an unexpected friendship? Or maybe even more, if they can just help each other to focus on not what they’ve lost, but what they’ve found…

About The Author

My Review

It is a novel that blends the emotional weight of grief with the hope of second chances and unexpected connections. At the center of the story is Lili, a kind, selfless young woman who gives so much to others in her small town yet struggles to open up about her own pain.

The novel kicks off with a spontaneous, emotionally charged moment: Lili sends a text to her late best friend Em, never expecting a reply. But when a response does come—from Dylan, a stranger with his own hidden grief—it marks the beginning of a transformative journey. Dylan is not only charming and skilled in the kitchen, but also carries a quiet sadness that mirrors Lili’s. Their connection feels fated, gently moving from chance encounter to something deeper and more meaningful. The romantic arc between Lili and Dylan is filled with sweetness, longing, and a touch of magical realism that adds a whimsical, almost spiritual layer to the story. Both characters are healing, and their growing bond becomes a testament to letting go of the past in order to embrace the future.

The novel shines through its heartfelt portrayal of love, loss, and human connection. With a strong focus on compassion and emotional healing, it gently explores the idea that sometimes, the universe—or something greater—intervenes when we need it most. Will You Stay Another Day? offers a tender, hopeful escape for readers who appreciate romance layered with quiet mystery and meaningful introspection.

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Review Card & Book Review – The Most Wonderful of The Year By Beth Moran

Mary never planned to stop running.

With a past she’s desperate to leave behind and a baby on the way, she’s found a new home, deep in the forest, hidden from the world. But when the time comes to go to the hospital, she has no idea that Beckett, the quiet, steady taxi driver who braves the blizzard to reach her, will change everything.

As Mary adjusts to life with her newborn, she finds herself drawn into a local close-knit community she never expected to be part of. Beckett is always there – dependable, patient and offering a friendship she doesn’t know how to accept but slowly comes to rely on.

In a place she thought she’d only ever be passing through, Mary finally learns what it truly means to belong. And as Christmas approaches, she begins to believe that maybe, just maybe, she doesn’t have to do this alone, and that this could be the start of something wonderful…

About The Author

My Review

At the heart of the story is Mary, the co-owner of a wildly successful fashion company in Sheffield. She’s fleeing a painful past when she unexpectedly gives birth—completely alone—in the middle of Sherwood Forest. Enter Beckett, the kind-hearted taxi driver sent to take her to the hospital… but the baby arrives early, in the middle of the New Life Community Church.

With no baby supplies, no plan, and no familiar faces, Mary begins to lean on the people she meets that night. What starts as a moment of desperation slowly becomes something more, as she finds friendship, purpose (by sewing costumes for the church’s Christmas concert), and maybe even love—with Beckett.

The story alternates between Mary’s present and flashbacks to her old life in Sheffield, gradually revealing the heartbreak that led her to start over. Beckett’s perspective adds even more depth, especially as he struggles to care for his beloved Gramps. Both storylines are moving and at times unexpectedly emotional, with a few twists that tug at the heart. The side characters shine just as brightly as the leads. Each one feels real, with enough personality and depth to carry their own novel. They bring warmth, humour, and heart to Mary’s journey.

Ultimately, this is a gorgeous, uplifting story about second chances, letting go of the past, and the power of kindness—perfect for curling up with in winter… or anytime you need a little hope. This novel is more about healing, community, and unexpected new beginnings, making it a beautiful read any time of year.

My Rating

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