Category Archives: Book Review

Book Review – The Royal By Susan Stoker

Former military man and member of a royal family Callum Redmon can’t deny his sense of responsibility. So when his cousin’s latest love interest claims to have a stalker, Cal reluctantly meets with the young woman and her mother. He wants to write off the situation as a complete farce—if only his feelings for another member of the household could be as easily dismissed.

Since her father’s death seventeen years ago, Juniper Rose has been at the cruel beck and call of her stepmother and stepsister. Her fantasies of escape mean leaving behind her father’s beloved home, but enough is enough: when Cal offers her a way out sooner rather than later, June takes the leap.

Cal’s home in Maine with his military brothers seems like the safest place to start fresh. But as Cal and June’s fairy-tale romance blossoms into something real, they find that the dangers stalking them may have been real all along.

Published Date: 8 August 2023

My Review

“Broken prince” Callum Redmon, scarred by war, avoids love, convinced no woman could want him for more than his title. Living quietly in small-town Maine, he meets Juniper Rose, trapped in solitude by her stepmother and stepsister. Their connection is immediate, and as they navigate a Cinderella-like story intertwined with military romance, emotional and physical connections play a central role. The book skillfully explores friendships, relationships, and the town’s characters, especially the endearing senior citizens. With danger well-executed, the story concludes with a tear-inducing ending, leaving readers eagerly anticipating the next tales of their friends.

My Rating

Book Review – The Dance Deception By Becky Ward

There’s about to be fire on – and off – the dance floor…

Kate Wareing is astonished when she secures a place in a televised dance competition. Especially as it means she’ll be paired with a professional dancer to compete for a life-changing cash prize.

When she’s matched with gorgeous French dancer Merle it quickly becomes clear that he’s just as keen to work on their chemistry as their routine. But when the competition is rocked by a scandal, Kate’s forced to switch to a new partner, Aleksis, who is just as devastatingly attractive as Merle – but seems to hate her.

Despite the odds stacked against them, Kate is determined to win, convincing Aleksis to embark on a showmance to try and win over the public. But what happens when Kate’s feelings for her fake boyfriend become all too real? And how far will Merle go to sabotage her chances – both in the competition and in love?

Published Date: 3 August 2023

My Review

Kate finds herself in a dancing competition similar to Strictly Come Dancing or Dancing with the Stars, partnering with Merle, a charismatic French dancer whose unconventional methods spark scandal. Forced to switch partners to save her reputation, Kate pairs with Aleksis, an equally attractive but initially frosty dancer. Despite their rocky start, they navigate a fake dating scenario to boost publicity, but the path to success and love proves far from straightforward.

This enchanting romance novel immerses readers in the glamorous world of dance competitions, where passion, drama, and unexpected love unfold. The heartwarming romance is punctuated by tender moments that will leave readers swooning. The author skillfully builds tension and chemistry between Kate and Aleksis, enhancing the allure of their evolving relationship.

My Rating

Book Review – Stirring Up Trouble By Kimberly Kincaid

Ingredients:

One grumpy restaurant manager desperately in need of a nanny for the thirteen-year-old half-sister he’s suddenly single parenting

One capricious, flat broke author who needs to kick her writer’s block to the curb with a one-way ticket out of town

One temporary deal that comes with some seriously distracting, seriously off-limits temptation

Mix well and watch these two go from slow burn to sizzle

Serve with a side of grumpy/sunshine, single dad + “anti” nanny workplace romance, epic flirting, and a hot and hard-fought happily ever after

Published Date: 8 August 2023

My Review

Renowned author Sloane Russo, in pursuit of her next compelling story, unexpectedly finds herself in the Pine Mountain community due to certain circumstances. Encountering the outspoken and somewhat grumpy Gavin Carmichael, who needs a babysitter/tutor for a thirteen-year-old, Sloane decides to leverage his business proposal for her own benefit. The situation takes a turn for the worse with a major misunderstanding, poor communication, assumptions gone awry, and a rash decision, leading to heartbreak. Can the parties involved pause long enough to mend the fractured bonds?

This touching contemporary romance unfolds in a small town setting, rich with desire, well-developed characters, and a captivating storyline. The well-written narrative captivated me from start to finish; I devoured it in a single afternoon. The protagonists, with their smoldering connection and intense chemistry, are likable and relatable. Prepare for an emotional rollercoaster—I found myself shedding tears throughout the book, though I must admit I’m prone to tearing up during Hallmark commercials. If you share a similar tendency, stock up on Kleenex before diving into this heartfelt read!

My Rating

Book Review – Kiss Me By Samantha Chase

Saying “I Do” to her boss seemed like a harmless solution to a potentially harmful problem.

But the only problem now is that she wants the marriage to be real.

When Marissa Barrett finds herself in a dangerous situation with her family, she needs help. Fast. Normally the queen of problem solving, this is one instance where she just can’t seem to find a solution on her own. All she wanted from her boss was help finding an attorney. But before she knows exactly how it’s happened, they’re standing in front of a justice of the peace.

Patrick Donovan would do anything to help Marissa. After all, she’s been helping him run his business for years. He’d be lying if he said he wasn’t wildly attracted to her, but there was no way he would ever act on it. Plus, with his meddling family looking to see him settle down, the last thing he needed was any kind of romantic relationship. But when Marissa turns to him for help, suddenly he sees a way to do it that benefits them both.

One year of marriage. That was the agreement.

But everything’s negotiable, right?

Published Date: 18 July 2023

My Review

Patrick Donovan, the top real estate agent in Laurel Bay, strives to maintain a private life while keeping his matchmaking mother at bay. Supported by his efficient assistant, Marissa Barrett, Patrick’s professional success owes much to her organizational skills. When Marissa’s personal life spills into her work, Patrick proposes a marriage of convenience to address both their problems—keeping her family at a distance and thwarting his mother’s matchmaking efforts, particularly with his siblings’ upcoming weddings.

Their relationship evolves from friendship to lovers, with Patrick hoping to shield Marissa, and while attempts to lead separate lives prove challenging, their inevitable attraction unfolds without explicit scenes. The narrative introduces a lively ensemble cast, including Patrick’s siblings, their partners, cousins, and Marissa’s brother Daren. As the Donovan family gathers, chaos ensues, weaving a tale of family, relationships, greed, addiction, acceptance, and love. The fast-paced, character-driven story is both heart-wrenching and engaging, with numerous dynamic characters and a subtly sweet romance.

My Rating

Book Review – What Happens On Vacation By Jo Watson

Journalist Margaret needs a vacation. 

After a difficult couple of years, some R&R is on the cards, and she’s taking her mom with her. Luckily, the office Quiz Night is coming up and the prize is an all-expenses-paid trip to Zanzibar. Good thing Margaret has never met a quiz question she didn’t like.

But Margaret has also never played against Jagger Villain. For the last six months, they have shared a desk and not a day has gone by when he hasn’t driven her to distraction.

The idea of sharing anything else with Jagger is unthinkable. But if she’s going get what she needs from this trip, Margaret might have to compromise.

Away from the office and in a tropical paradise, Margaret beings to wonder if her archnemesis maybe has some qualities. 

Published Date: 20 July 2023

My Review

Margaret, a dedicated journalist, reluctantly shares a desk with Jagger, whose lighthearted writing style contrasts sharply with her seriousness. As they face off in an office quiz for a chance to win a luxury holiday in Zanzibar, Margaret’s determination clashes with Jagger’s affable nature. Despite their differences, their unexpected tie for first place sets the stage for a humorous and touching love story. This book weaves a tale of love, hate, letting go, and mourning loss, promising a journey filled with laughter, smiles, and tears.

My Rating

Book Review – The Sheikh’s Secret Past By Leslie North

Two brothers. Two women who love them. One secret that threatens to destroy their family…

Soraya’s heart melts when she’s around Amir. She has never felt so attracted to any man. No matter how much she tries to fight it, she can’t resist Amir’s playful charms. And nobody had ever seen Amir care so much for a woman. Even his brother, Tariq, jokes that Amir, an infamous playboy, is falling head over heels in love.

Then there’s Sara… Her bond with Tariq strengthens every day. When he is near she feels feverish, like she is on fire. Just his touch, or a whiff of his cologne, sets her heart racing. He may seem stubborn and intimating on the outside, but his tough exterior disappears around Sara and their child. With another Botros baby on the way, and a wedding on the horizon, their relationship has grown even more passionate.

But when the Botros matriarch, invites the whole family to visit an exotic paradise in the heart of the desert, a woman from Amir’s past is waiting for them.

And she carries a secret that could tear the Botros family apart…

Published Date: 8 June 2023

My Review

In the ongoing tale of Soraya and Amir, Soraya finally agreed to give Amir a chance. After dating for a month, Fiddah, Amir’s grandmother, decides to take the family on a vacation to their ancestral home in Salma City. Things are going well, and Soraya and Amir are enjoying their time together. During a family dinner, Sara, Tariq’s wife, notices a woman observing Amir, setting off a chain of events. The next morning, problems arise when Amir is informed that a woman wishes to speak to him, revealing complications from his past. Mrs. Botros insists on Amir marrying his child’s mother to avoid scandal, leading to heated arguments due to Amir’s love for Soraya. Fiddah and others support Amir, recognizing the situation as a power play. The story unfolds with emotional ups and downs, including Malik finding love. Soraya stands out, and the characters, despite their flaws, contribute to the series’ appeal. Amidst family dynamics, Tariq undergoes positive changes, Sara remains a formidable presence, and Amir’s adorable son adds a delightful touch. The book also introduces humorous moments with the guys teasing Aaliyah, showcasing the couples’ endearing and beautiful relationships.

My Rating

Book Review – Summer Dreams at the Lakeside Cottage By Erin Green

Welcome to the Lakeside Cottage . . . a place to escape, where friendship awaits . . .

When Beth, Koo and Lulu wake up in the same hotel room in Bath, wearing each other’s hen night attire, they are extremely confused – especially as they have never met before. But what begins that night is just the start of a week of surprises . . .

Beth has followed the traditional path in her relationship with Dale, and now their wedding is just days away – but is it really what she wants?

Koo‘s relationship with Judd has been anything but expected – especially by her family. Is she right to trust her instincts and go through with this marriage?

For Lulu, the big day approaching signifies nothing but heartache as the man she loves is marrying another. Should she fight for the happiness they both deserve?

The three women make a snap decision to escape to a beautiful Lake District cottage for one week, hoping that the gift of their new-found friendships will help them make the biggest decision of their lives.

Published Date: 20 July 2023

My Review

It narrates the experiences of three distinct women – Beth, Koo, and Lulu – grappling with pivotal life choices. Beth and Koo are brides-to-be celebrating their hen nights, while Lulu serves as the Maid of Honour at her cousin’s celebration. The morning after a night in a Bath hotel, the trio decides spontaneously to stay in a charming lakeside cottage as they navigate their decisions. The well-crafted characters and engaging situations drew me in, offering a mix of likable and flawed traits that added authenticity. The story is meticulously planned, eloquently written, and rich in humor, love, romance, and heartbreak – an enthralling tale that held my attention from start to finish.

My Rating

Book Review – The Wedding Gift By Carolyn Brown

A week before your wedding is one heckuva time for your ex to ride back into town, stirring up trouble. But that’s exactly the predicament Darla McAdams finds herself in. Darla’s on the verge of breaking up with her fiancé, Will Jackson—only a week before the wedding. Her parents would disown her, but Darla’s sure that her Granny Roxie will understand when Darla tells her that her first love, Andy, has come back to town. Thank goodness for a wise granny’s reminiscences of her own sassy wedding at just the right moment…

Published Date: 11 July 2023

My Review

Three delightful novellas, including a fresh release and two previously published works, make up this collection of charming country tales.

In “The Wedding Gift,” Darla’s impending marriage to Will Jackson is shaken when her old high school flame returns, prompting second thoughts. Granny Roxie and Grandpa Claud offer sage advice, guiding her toward clarity.

Following is “A Slow Dance Holiday,” a standalone Christmas romance from the Honky Tonk series. Jorja trades her dull Nashville job for a half partnership in a Texan Honky Tonk, only to discover her business partner, Cameron, is a lanky cowboy with dreams of bar ownership and ranching.

Concluding the trio is “Summertime on the Ranch,” a standalone from the Spikes and Spurs series. Becca, a former Nashville singer, now works at a winery, resisting the charms of cowboy Dalton. A canine matchmaker brings them together after six months of Becca’s initial reluctance.

Each novella offers a unique setup and romantic plot, infused with author’s down-to-earth humor and sweet, slightly spicy cowboy romance. Overall, it is a delightful blend of laughter, music, and love in the ranch country read to me.

My Rating

Book Review – Love At First Site By Phoebe MacLeod

Ella’s life is about to be hit by a wrecking ball…

On the surface, Ella has it all. A great job, a penthouse apartment and the perfect boyfriend, Lee. There’s just one snag: their relationship has to be kept secret due to their employer’s strict rule about not dating colleagues.

When Lee quits to join a competitor, Ella discovers they haven’t been as discreet as they thought and she finds herself out of a job. Stuck in an apartment she can’t afford with a man she’s beginning to suspect loves himself much more than her, Ella’s life quickly unravels.

A job offer could be her ticket to a new start, but it’s miles away on a construction site, an industry she knows nothing about. Can Ella prove everyone wrong and make a go of her new career? And will guidance from foreman Noah help her build a new, even better life for herself?

Published Date: 25 July 2023

My Review

Ella excels in organization, making her an ideal project manager, but her life takes a turn when her secret live-in relationship with colleague Lee violates the company’s no-relationships policy. The situation worsens as Lee sabotages a crucial contract bid and joins a rival firm, leaving Ella unemployed and her relationship in ruins.Forced to accept a project manager position at a construction company in Kent, Ella confronts challenges such as low-level sexism, a toxic boss, and the daunting “caravan of shit.” Simultaneously, she grapples with her attraction to site foreman Noah. Having experienced the complications of workplace relationships, Ella is wary of repeating past mistakes.

Ella and Noah proved to be delightful characters in the story. Ella’s remarkable self-imposed challenges were truly engaging. I admired how, despite working in a predominantly male environment, she asserted herself to earn the respect she rightly deserved, fostering wonderful friendships along the way. Noah’s character was equally commendable, earning my respect for treating Ella as an equal. He provided her with an opportunity in an unfamiliar work environment and played a crucial role in boosting her confidence significantly. Overall it is a great holiday read

My Rating

Book Review – The Woman Who Ran For The Hills By Carmen Reid

Jennifer McAndrew thinks she’s living her best life in London – wonderful man, great job, happily child-free. Except the ‘wonderful man’ turns out to have a secret that ruins everything…

Shocked and devastated, Jen doesn’t know what to do. So, she packs her bags and runs for the hills – away from her problems, all the way to her childhood home in Scotland and the safety of her dad.

But her dad is a changed man. Busy with his girlfriend, golf and G&Ts, he doesn’t have time for Jen’s worries. And she can’t see her sister, Isla, who she fell out with years ago.

So, Jen rekindles friendships with her old school pals, Alison and Rory. They’re juggling work and young families, but still find time to take her out and set her up with some terrible dates.

The more time she spends with Rory and his daughters, the more Jen thinks there could be something big missing from her life. But could she ever go back to small town life? And can she forgive what happened in the past? Should a good friend become something more?

The biggest question for Jen is – will she try to solve her problems, or will she cut and run for the hills again?

Published Date: 18 July 2023

My Review

This revolves around Jennifer, a young go-getter living in London and working as a paralegal for a prominent barrister. Unbeknownst to her, she’s also his mistress, dreaming of a glamorous life with a beautiful flat, theater outings, and social events. However, her perceptions shatter when the barrister’s wife calls, revealing he’s back with his family. Furious, Jennifer confronts him, leading to a comical argument and a mishap that results in a broken knee and emergency surgery. Opting for a fresh start, she heads back to Saint Andrews, Scotland, initially distant from her father but finding unexpected comfort in her hometown. Reconnecting with old friends and experiencing the genuine, non-Instagram life, Jennifer discovers a new perspective and, perhaps, a chance at love. This book offers a blend of humor and heartfelt moments, making it a delightful and quick read.

My Rating