Book Review – Page 12

Review Card & Book Review- Who We Used To Be By Caitlin Weaver

What if the person you trust the most did something you can’t forgive?

Dana Blair has spent her life letting others take the wheel, from her relationship with her husband to her business. Now, with her marriage unraveling, her son in crisis, and her career on the verge of collapse, Dana is left wondering whether she ever really had control of anything at all.

Padma Paulsen is the opposite: a brilliant, fiercely driven ER doctor who’s given her all to her career. Her friendship with Dana has been the one constant in her high-pressure life.

But then a tragedy on Padma’s watch leaves Dana’s daughter in critical condition and their bond in tatters.

As Dana fights for justice for her daughter, grief turns to blame. Soon she’s forced to make a decision that could either save her family or destroy the most important friendship of her life.

About The Author

My Review

Who We Used to Be is a poignant, emotionally layered novel that explores the fragility of friendship, the complexity of personal identity, and the quiet devastation that can follow misplaced trust. Told through the lens of two neighboring families, Caitlin Weaver weaves a reflective and thought-provoking narrative centered on Dana and Padma—two longtime friends whose lives are suddenly fractured by tragedy.

Dana is a woman adrift, her marriage faltering and her sense of self buried beneath years of passivity. She’s someone who has let life happen to her rather than taking ownership of it. In contrast, Padma is fiercely driven, defined by her ambition and tightly tethered to her professional identity—often at the cost of neglecting the rest of who she is. The rupture between them comes when Dana’s daughter falls into a coma, and Dana—reeling with grief—casts blame on Padma. What follows is an unraveling of long-held assumptions, painful reckonings, and the redefinition of not just their friendship, but their entire selves.

The novel shines in its exploration of family dynamics. Dana’s son, in particular, provides a touching and unexpected emotional anchor. His struggles are portrayed with tenderness and nuance, and his voice adds a deeper emotional resonance to the story. While some characters—like Dana’s husband—may feel frustrating or extraneous, the emotional authenticity of the rest makes up for it.

This is a quietly heartbreaking novel that asks important questions about how much of ourselves we give away, whether to a friendship, a role, or an ideal. It’s a meditation on identity, regret, and the difficult, necessary process of reclaiming who we really are.

A moving, worthwhile read for those who appreciate introspective fiction with deeply human characters.

My Rating

Link To Purchase

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Review Card & Book Review- Biggest Player By Sara Ney

Margot’s a busy single mom juggling teaching, parenting, and trying not to die alone. Dating apps? Total nightmare. But desperate times call for desperate swipes, even if they make her break out in stress hives. When she matches with a guy who looks too good to be true, she’s convinced he’s a walking red flag—or worse—a catfish.

Dex is hot, and he knows it. A quarterback with a killer smile and looks to spare, he’s a good guy looking for a long-term relationship. He wants what his friends have: someone to come home to…and if they’re naked when he gets there, even better. When he logs on for a casual scroll, he’s not expecting to meet her. One swipe, and suddenly he’s hooked.

Margot’s convinced he’s a catfish. Dex has zero dad bod and no dad energy. But their sizzling back-and-forth leaves them both thinking “what if.” After a surprise run-in leads to a mind-blowing (and soggy AF) kiss, their opposites-attract energy skyrockets. Can they find a way to make it last?

About The Author

My Review

Dex is the kind of cocky jock you want to roll your eyes at but can’t help falling for. After a public breakup with a high-maintenance model, he’s eager to show the world—and himself—that he’s capable of more than shallow relationships. Despite his swagger, Dex has a good heart, makes mistakes, and genuinely wants to grow. Enter the dating app that connects him with Margot.

Margot is a breath of fresh air—a sharp, confident, and grounded single mom with a smart, spirited daughter. Her instincts are spot on when she initially suspects Dex might be catfishing, which makes their real-life meeting all the more hilarious and memorable. The banter between them is fast, funny, and full of flirtation. Ney absolutely nails the chemistry, and the slow build between Dex and Margot (despite the instalove undertones) feels earned thanks to their vibrant personalities and emotional connection.

The book strikes a great balance between sweet and steamy. Memorable scenes like the bath, the leaky pipe, and rock climbing aren’t just sexy—they deepen the emotional bond between the leads and highlight their compatibility in both chaotic and tender moments.

Biggest Player delivers a swoony, spicy, and heartwarming sports romance that’s hard to put down. What makes this romance stand out is how real both characters feel. Dex isn’t just a pretty face; he’s vulnerable, funny, and refreshingly earnest. Margot, with her fierce love for her daughter and her no-nonsense attitude, grounds the story with heart and maturity.

My Rating

Link To Purchase

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Happy Publication Day – 9 December 2025

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.

Review Card & Book Review- Storing Secrets By Janice Kay Johnson

Someone has secrets

They’ll kill to keep buried

Erin Reed’s life spirals into terror after she barely escapes an arson attack with her little boy in her arms. As the threats against her life multiply, she discovers that Detective Sam McKeige is a man she can rely on to protect her and her son. What begins as trust turns into something that might be love…if she and Sam get the chance to explore it. Can they uncover the identity of the serial killer who’s been stalking her before this monster rips the future away from them?

About The Author

My Review

Erin Reed is exactly the kind of heroine you root for—resilient, smart, and fiercely protective of her son. She’s juggling motherhood and running an antique business when a seemingly routine storage unit purchase thrusts her into the path of a dangerous criminal. The threat is immediate and terrifying, but Erin’s strength never wavers—she’s not a damsel waiting to be saved.

Enter Detective Sam, whose protective instincts are triggered the moment he meets Erin and her son. He’s still grieving the loss of his own child, and the emotional baggage he carries adds depth to his gruff demeanor. His desire to keep Erin safe is professional at first, but quickly turns personal.

The suspense is well-paced, with the looming danger keeping the tension high. The romance, though gradual, feels earned—rooted in trust, shared vulnerability, and the realization that love doesn’t weaken you, it strengthens you. The connection between Sam and Erin’s son is especially poignant and adds emotional richness to the narrative. Overall, it is a satisfying romantic suspense with heart, grit, and emotional resonance.

My Rating

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Review Card & Book Review – A Montana – Sized Secret By Allie Pleiter

Can she trust him again

For the sake of their baby?

Returning to High Mountain pregnant is not the fresh start Carly Davis imagined—nor is telling Jack Peters he’s the father. And with Jack in the early stages of addiction recovery, she questions if he can handle being a parent. But Jack is determined to show that he’s changed, and a chance to prove himself arises when they must care for a litter of rescued baby bunnies. Trust slowly builds between them again, but as unexpected news threatens their fragile bond, can they overcome the uncertainties to be the family they both need?

About The Author

My Review

The story centers on Carly, who returns to her Montana hometown after a brief escape—one prompted by her boyfriend Jack’s battle with alcoholism and the revelation that she’s pregnant. Jack, now in recovery, is trying to piece his life back together while grappling with the weight of his past decisions. Their shared history is complicated, and with a baby on the way, both must confront not only each other but their own vulnerabilities. Jack’s journey feels authentic—marked by shame, hope, and constant temptation. Carly, meanwhile, is a resilient yet conflicted heroine, torn between protecting herself and giving Jack a second chance. Their relationship is layered and realistic, with no easy fixes, which makes their emotional growth all the more impactful.

What keeps the book from becoming too heavy is the welcome presence of the Three Sisters Rescue Farm and its mischievous bunnies, which inject warmth and levity. These lighter moments offer much-needed breathing room amid the emotional weight of the story.

This isn’t your typical fluffy romance—it explores serious, real-world challenges with empathy and insight. The central question—can love survive in the face of addiction, regret, and change?—is explored with grace, and readers will find themselves rooting hard for Jack and Carly, even when the odds seem stacked against them.

Overall, it is a poignant, emotionally resonant romance with heart, honesty, and just enough hope. It’s a story of redemption, second chances, and choosing love—especially when it’s not easy.

My Rating

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Review Card & Book Review- Wyoming Bodyguard By Danielle M. Haas

His job is keeping her safe—

from unrelenting danger.

Ever since the Tremonts and the McKays had a dispute over their neighboring Wyoming ranches, they’ve been bitter rivals. So Madden McKay of Sunrise Security is more than surprised when Lily Tremont reaches out to him for protection after her father is attacked. Soon Madden must deal with vandalism, sabotage and revenge aimed at Lily. Why? Behind it all, he discovers a massive criminal ring. And while the investigation sparks passion between Lily and her heroic bodyguard, one shocking revelation could destroy lives on all sides.

About The Author

My Review

Madden McKay is doing his best to rebuild his reputation and business after his father’s controversial land sale to developers caused a rift in the town. He’s hiding a deeper reason for the sale, one that could change public perception—but revealing it might come at too high a cost. His plans for a fresh start are put to the test when Lily Tremont, once a childhood friend and now a bitter rival, turns to him for help after her father is shot.

The chemistry between Madden and Lily simmers beneath the surface from the beginning, but what really drives the story is the tension between loyalty, family legacy, and the possibility of forgiveness. As they reluctantly join forces to find out who’s targeting the Tremonts, their professional alliance is complicated by unresolved feelings—and growing attraction.

The suspense plot adds just the right level of danger and urgency without overshadowing the romance. Secondary characters are also introduced with enough intrigue to hint at future books, leaving readers curious about whose story is coming next.

Overall, Wyoming Bodyguard is a strong series opener that blends family drama, suspense, and romance in a satisfying package. With likable characters, a well-paced plot, and a setting full of potential, Danielle M. Haas has created a story that’s easy to get swept up in.

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Review Card & Book Review- Fake Date On The Orient Express By Jessica Gilmore

THE PERFORMANCE OF A LIFETIME?

When millionaire Lucas West rescues a stunning actress on board the Orient Express to Venice, he has a brilliant idea. He needs a fake girlfriend for the summer, so who better than a woman who pretends for a living? It’s certainly the most unusual role Tally has ever had—and handsome Lucas is now her favourite costar! Soon, their relationship begins to go off script, but can they trust their emotions enough to write the next act?

About The Author

My Review

Set against the opulent backdrop of the legendary Orient Express, the story pairs free-spirited actress Tally with buttoned-up businessman Lucas in a fake-dating scenario that quickly sparks very real emotions.

Their journey begins on the train, but the romance doesn’t stop there—Venice and Tuscany serve as stunning settings that amplify the story’s dreamy, escapist vibe. Gilmore makes great use of these locales, bringing in the elegance, warmth, and atmosphere that make the story feel like a mini holiday in book form.

Tally and Lucas are well-matched opposites. Tally is vibrant, spontaneous, and emotionally open, while Lucas is more reserved and career-focused. Their fake relationship starts as a cover for Lucas during a family trip, but as they navigate time with his brother and godfather—both of whom immediately sense something genuine between them—the sparks fly. Tally’s supportive parents and best friend round out the cast, offering both levity and heart.

What stands out most is how the characters’ personal histories are woven into the story. Both Tally and Lucas have emotional baggage that shapes their choices, making their growth and eventual connection feel earned. Their chemistry builds naturally, and the emotional beats land without ever feeling overly dramatic.

The brief epilogue is a lovely touch, giving readers a glimpse into the couple’s life a year later and tying up their journey with a satisfying bow.

Overall, Fake Date on the Orient Express is a delightful romance filled with warmth, wit, and wanderlust. With engaging characters, a swoon-worthy setting, and a beloved fake-dating trope done right, it’s a perfect pick for fans of sweet, globe-trotting love stories.

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Review Card & Book Review – Country Fair Cowboy By Melinda Curtis

Will they win a blue ribbon…

For falling in love?

Dr. Wylie Newland loves being a vet, loves cheery Clementine, Oklahoma, but his crush on Dr. Hazel Hughes is a problem. The new resident has made it clear she’s a city girl at heart and won’t be staying. Working hand in hand at the fair is bringing them closer…and, hopefully, winning her over. Sure, Hazel is beginning to see that Wylie is pretty great, but he’s also stuck in many regards. With Hazel showing him new ways to look at the world, and Wylie showing her that settling down isn’t settling for less, could they take first prize for romance?

About The Author

My Review

Dr. Wylie Newman is the town’s only veterinarian—a dedicated, kind-hearted man who grew up in Clementine and was fostered at the Done Roamin Ranch. With his father’s legacy on his shoulders and his foster brothers settling into their own family lives, Wylie begins to dream of a future that includes love and a family of his own. Enlisting the help of a local matchmaker, he’s ready to take that next step.

Enter Dr. Hazel Hughes, a skilled and determined vet with dreams of honoring her late brother by completing a prestigious residency in England. When that dream is put on hold and she’s unexpectedly sent to Clementine instead, she’s frustrated—but not for long. As she and Wylie work together, a quiet friendship blooms into something deeper. Still, Hazel must decide whether to hold fast to her original plan or open her heart to a new path.

This is a heartfelt, small-town romance filled with warmth, laughter, and just the right touch of emotional depth. The chemistry between Wylie and Hazel is natural and sweet, and their journey is enhanced by a cast of mischievous animals and well-drawn side characters who bring humor and charm. Melinda Curtis delivers another feel-good story that celebrates love, community, and the courage it takes to choose a different kind of dream.

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Review Card & Book Review- Suddenly Desired By Katie Evergreen

He’s fighting for his reputation. She’s risking her heart.

Billionaire tech mogul Blake Fielding is on top of the world — until a scandalous hack makes him public enemy number one, shattering the empire he’s built.

Ellie Mae-Woodward’s dream job at the famous social media company Heartbook is within her grasp. Except she never steps foot in the interview room. When she arrives, the company is in lockdown. Her dream job is over before it has even begun.

While Ellie drowns her sorrows and Blake escapes the press attention, a chance encounter by the river leads to an unexpected friendship.

Blake is determined to clear his name. He doesn’t expect his only ally to be Ellie — a quirky, book-loving web designer.

Ellie finds Blake infuriatingly handsome and frustratingly guarded, but she might be the only one who can help him.

As fate throws them together, sparks fly. And when the shocking truth comes to light, Blake faces an impossible choice: reclaim his reputation or risk it all for love.

About The Author

My Review

Ellie and Blake are both characters with relatable struggles, and I appreciated the attempt to show vulnerability in both of them. While I personally wished for a bit more emotional depth and growth from them, their story touches on some important themes. Blake’s situation felt slightly more fleshed out, but overall, I would’ve liked to see more development in how their challenges were addressed.

The supporting cast stood out and added some energy to the narrative. Even when they were frustrating, they sparked emotion—which is always a good sign that the characters are well-drawn and not just background filler. I found myself reacting more strongly to them than to the leads, which helped keep me engaged.

Though the story has a light tone in places, it also weaves in meaningful topics like misogyny, gaslighting, and toxic masculinity. These elements are present enough that I’d suggest readers check for content warnings if they’re sensitive to such themes.

My Rating

Link To Purchase

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Review Card & Book Review- Below Deck Billionaire By Amy Andrews

The world’s hottest playboy is off-limits… to everyone but her 🔥

Theo Callisthenes – renowned playboy and heir to a multi-billion-dollar Greek shipping company’s sex-capades – always make the front page. But when one misdemeanor goes too far, his brother offers up a challenge. Restore his reputation with a 4-month sex ban…

Vowing to see the ban through, Theo takes up residence on his superyacht sailing around the Greek islands. Until one day, the one woman he hasn’t been able to hit and quit – Tiffany Wainright – strides onboard as the newest member of his crew. Temptation has set sail with him and the forced proximity gives him absolutely nowhere to hide! Tiffany might live below deck but their attraction is still electric and she’s just too close for comfort.

Then an opportunity to salvage a business deal he put in jeopardy is back on the table. To ensure success Theo may need a very indecent proposal. Can he convince Tiffany to pose as his fake fiancé during the day to help seal the deal and trust that neither of them will succumb to their burning chemistry once the sun goes down? It’s only for two days but how long will the ban hold when the door closes on his suite and there’s only his sorely tested honour keeping them in check?

About The Author

My Review

The setup is both enticing and classic: Theo Callisthenes, heir to a Greek shipping empire, is given an ultimatum—abstain from sex for four months or risk tanking the family’s reputation and business. Retreating to his yacht to escape the paparazzi and temptations, Theo is determined to stay celibate… until Tiffany Wainright joins the crew. She’s sharp, capable, and, crucially, immune to his charms—at least she was once.

The forced proximity between Theo and Tiffany creates immediate and irresistible tension. Their dynamic crackles with Andrews’ signature snappy banter, magnetic flirtation, and just the right dose of emotional friction. When a business crisis forces Theo to stage a fake engagement, Tiffany becomes the obvious—and only—choice. What begins as a PR charade soon blurs into something much more genuine.

The novel leans heavily into familiar but beloved tropes: fake relationship, second chances, and opposites attract. Andrews navigates them with confidence, infusing the story with energy and sensuality. The fake fiancé plotline is well-executed, particularly in how it accelerates emotional vulnerability between the leads. Their gradual trust-building feels authentic, even when the pacing occasionally breezes past deeper emotional beats.

While it doesn’t break new ground, Below Deck Billionaire is pure romantic indulgence. Think jet-set fantasy with heart—a perfect beach read for fans of playful banter, luxe settings, and steamy slow burns.

My Rating

Link To Purchase

Amazon

Barnes & Noble

Kobo