Book Review – Page 29

Review Card & Book Review – Hooked on You by Ada Barumé

This job is about to hook, line and sink her…

Ore has (almost) landed her dream job as an investigative reporter for the New Yorker. There’s only one catch – they’ll only give her the job if she can get the scoop on working for the elusive billionaire Harrison Marigold. To write the article, she’s got to spend two weeks on his luxury yacht off the coast of Australia, and convince the crew to spill the beans.

Daniel has (almost) landed his dream job as captain of a super yacht down under. There’s only one catch – he has to take one last job, chartering a yacht for an eccentric billionaire, and making sure an unfairly beautiful journalist doesn’t distract his crew from their work.

But making sure Ore doesn’t sink his chances of staying on course by sea-ducing his crew turns into a much harder job than Daniel expected. Ore’s also finding her assignment more difficult than she ever thought, thanks to the crew’s loyalty to Captain Daniel, but also, the waves of attraction towards him that keep crashing over her.

About The Author

My Review

This is a captivating blend of romance and mystery set aboard a luxurious yacht. Ore, a determined journalist, is on the verge of landing her dream job at The New Yorker—but first, she must write a profile on a powerful CEO. To do so, she embarks on his yacht, intending to interview the crew and guests. However, as she digs deeper, she realizes something is off about the CEO and his associates, turning what was supposed to be a simple profile into a much more dangerous investigation.

At the heart of the story is Ore’s unexpected connection with Daniel, the yacht’s captain, who has always lived by careful planning—until she disrupts his world. Their romance is built on more than just attraction; they share values and mutual respect, making their relationship feel organic and refreshing. While some side characters, like Carlos, the yacht’s chef, add charm, others, like Claude, feel underdeveloped.

With its mix of suspense, glamour, and romance, Hooked on You is an engaging summer read, perfect for those who enjoy high-stakes drama with a dash of love.

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Review Card & Book Review- Too Hot To Handle By Portia MacIntosh

One bachelorette party. One stag do. One double-booked villa and only one way to decide who gets it: a competition.

Workaholic Molly is buzzing when her best friend tells her she’s getting married. As maid of honour Molly can’t wait for the perfect bachelorette party in Spain. What could be better than a week in a stunning villa? Sun, sea, cocktails and gossiping – and best of all, no boys allowed. But when the hens arrive they discover that they are not alone. The villa has been accidentally double booked by a group of stags who make it very clear they’re not leaving!

It’s a disaster, and no one wants to give up their place in paradise. Attempts at compromising fail instantly, so their only option is to have a winner takes all competition. Battle lines are drawn and it is girls v boys – but will the competition be too hot to handle?

As their rivalry heats up, and Molly finds herself gravitating towards stag Travis, it’s clear that he’s enjoying the attention – but Molly can’t let herself get distracted, and under no circumstances can she fall for the enemy.

About The Author

My Review

This is a laugh-out-loud romantic comedy about Molly, who, after being dumped by her longtime boyfriend, joins her best friend Lou’s hen do in Spain. Upon arriving at their luxury villa, the group discovers it has been double-booked with three guys, including the charming Travis. Instead of leaving, both groups agree to compete in games, with the losers forced to vacate. Initially skeptical of the childish arrangement, Molly goes along for Lou’s sake, all while unexpectedly falling for one of the guys.Filled with humor, playful banter, and entertaining challenges, the book captures the fun and chaos of an unexpected vacation romance. The ending delivers a sweet and satisfying conclusion, reminiscent of classic ’80s rom-coms.

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Review Card & Book Review – Some Like It Scot By Pepper Basham

Popular travel writer and podcaster Katie Campbell roams the world collecting other people’s stories. She’s built a career as “Miss Adventure,” known for saying yes to anything new–country, food, or experience–and predictably finding those adventures taking a downward turn into misadventures.

Offered the chance to explore her ancestral roots through a three-week Edwardian experience, Katie finds herself immersed in the beauty and eccentricity of Scotland. In her period attire, with traditional foods and activities, the opportunities for misadventures are endless, especially with the presence of a maniacal macaw, a jealous co-worker, and an all-too-surly Scotsman.

Reclusive and protective Graeme MacKerrow doesn’t venture far from his island home. A stoic Scotsman, Graeme’s comfort zone has always been family, and after his sister’s death, he’s even more determined to save the MacKerrow ancestral home and keep those he loves close. The sudden intrusion of a six-foot-one American lass, famous for her traveling misfortunes, was far from his plan.

As this world of folklore, community, and woodworkers-in-kilts tempts Katie to discover her own story, could this one grand series of misadventures lead her directly to where she belongs? And would a settled-in-Scot ever risk loosening his grip on what’s familiar to allow a wanderlust writer a home in his heart? How could their very different worlds share the same page of life’s story when “home” is in two very different places? But maybe home–and the future–isn’t quite what either one imagined it would be. Maybe home is less about a place . . . and more about a person.

About The Author

My Review

This is a heartwarming romance that beautifully ties humor, faith, and belonging into Katie Campbell’s journey. Katie, a travel writer prone to comical mishaps, heads to the Isle of Mull on assignment, only to discover more than just a story. The island’s breathtaking beauty, rich heritage, and warm community remind her of the love she once shared with her Scottish grandparents, stirring a longing for roots and home.

Her path takes a meaningful turn when she meets Graeme MacKerrow, a charming local who sees beyond her wandering spirit. Their connection grows through shared moments and conversations that nudge Katie toward self-acceptance and the possibility of staying rather than running. Basham’s storytelling blends Katie’s laugh-out-loud adventures with her deeper struggles to embrace her identity, weaving in themes of faith, family, and body positivity in a way that feels natural to the narrative.

Brimming with Scottish charm and heartfelt romance, it is a cozy, uplifting tale about finding love, rediscovering heritage, and choosing where the heart truly belongs.

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Review Card & Book Review – If Tomorrow Never Comes By Allison Ashley

Uncertain of what tomorrow brings, Elliott Holland decides to live it up—on the eve of a stem cell transplant to treat her leukemia. It’s destiny when she crosses paths with handsome and charming Jamie Sullivan. The chemistry is magic. So is a beautiful evening that ends with a bittersweet kiss goodbye and no expectations of ever seeing each other again.

One year later, Elliott’s future looks good. Her cancer is in remission. Her career in graphic design is taking off. And she’s finally met Carly, the young woman whose stem cell donation gave Elliott a second chance at life. Then, in a twist of fate both blissful and unfair, she meets Carly’s boyfriend. It’s Jamie, the man Elliott kissed like it was her last day on earth. Neither of them has ever forgotten it.

Now, the most difficult decisions of all lie ahead. Whatever risks there are to the heart, one need wins out: to grab hold of everything that can make someone feel alive again.

About The Author

My Review

If Tomorrow Never Comes by Allison Ashley is a deeply emotional and thought-provoking romance that blends themes of love, resilience, and second chances. The story follows Elliott Holland, a leukemia survivor preparing for a fresh start after undergoing a stem cell transplant. On the eve of her treatment, she shares an intense but fleeting connection with Jamie Sullivan, an easygoing arborist. A year later, fate intervenes when Elliott discovers Jamie is dating Carly—the very woman whose stem cells saved her life.

As Elliott struggles with guilt and unresolved feelings, Jamie faces his own fears of repeating his father’s mistakes. Their slow-burning romance is built on meaningful conversations, quiet moments of connection, and mutual emotional support. Ashley, a clinical oncology pharmacist, portrays Elliott’s medical journey with authenticity, adding depth to her character. The novel is a heartfelt exploration of love, healing, and the courage to embrace happiness despite life’s uncertainties.

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Review Card & Book Review – The Last Guy You Kiss By Carla De Guzman

Some rumors turn out to be true…

Love isn’t easy. Especially when everyone seems to have found it but you. For florist Mara Barretto, her romantic life—or lack thereof—has baffled her close-knit family for years. Now that her baby sister is getting married, however, the pressure to settle down is at an all-time high. Then she meets Jay Montinola, a fellow wedding guest who’s equally single.

And rumor has it that every girl who kisses Jay finds The One immediately after.

So Mara does what any girl would do: try it for herself.

It’s only a kiss—one that will supposedly put an end to her single life and thrust Mara into the arms of Mr. Right, wherever he is. Yet the moment Jay’s lips are on hers, Mara’s plan takes an unexpected turn. Will she finally find the relationship she longs for, or is true love a lot closer than she thinks?

About The Author

My Review

This book tells the story of Mara Barretto, a floral designer who feels the weight of her family’s expectations as she remains single during her sister’s wedding. At the lively celebration, she meets Jay Montinola, a charming guest known for a peculiar reputation—every woman he kisses supposedly finds her true love soon after. When Mara impulsively kisses him, she expects nothing more than a fleeting moment, but the act sparks curiosity, gossip, and an undeniable connection between them.

As Mara and Jay navigate the aftermath of their kiss, what begins as a playful encounter turns into a slow, heartfelt unfolding of feelings. Their growing bond is surrounded by the warmth of family gatherings, the vibrancy of Filipino traditions, and the subtle pressures of love and expectation. Jay proves to be more than his reputation, and Mara discovers that opening herself to love can be both vulnerable and liberating.

Overall, it is story blends humor, tenderness, and cultural richness, leading to an ending that, while swift, captures the joy of unexpected romance and the courage it takes to embrace it.

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Review Card & Book Review – Unlikely Neighbors By Renee Daniel Flagler

When you least expect it, love comes knocking…

Holland Davenport is ready to go beyond her small-town existence. Her plan involves moving into an apartment in Charleston—not inheriting a run-down brownstone in Brooklyn from a relative she never knew. Yet in a burst of daring, Holland meets the challenge head-on, moving to New York to learn more about her family and renovate the place. Add to that a gorgeous next-door neighbor who turns out to be a board member at her new job, and she’s definitely out of her depth.

Noble Washington is the successful CEO of a company he spent a decade building. But his carefully ordered life begins to unravel the second he meets fiery social worker Holland—and spends one unforgettable night with a woman who should be off-limits.

There’s a wall and a world of differences lying between them. But the sheltered Southerner and the ambitious native New Yorker feel a pull that just won’t be denied…

About The Author

My Review

This is a heartfelt and steamy romance that blends emotional depth with undeniable chemistry. When Holland Davenport unexpectedly inherits a run-down Brooklyn brownstone, she embarks on a journey of self-discovery while clashing—and connecting—with her polished and magnetic neighbor, Noble Washington. Their attraction is instant yet layered with personal challenges, making their romance both passionate and meaningful. The vibrant Brooklyn setting enhances the story, creating a rich backdrop for Holland’s fresh start. With its perfect mix of tension, tenderness, and self-growth, this novel is a captivating read that stays with you long after the last page.

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Review Card & Book Review- Billion – Dollar Ring Ruse By Jadesola James

A diamond deception…
too tempting to deny!

Having clawed his way out of poverty, billionaire Desmond Tesfay is on the cusp of a career-defining acquisition. So his client’s alluring PA Valentina Montgomery is…distracting. And when their impossible-to-resist encounter is exposed there’s only one solution to save the deal and Valentina’s job—fake their engagement!

As Desmond’s temporary fiancée, Val can open up her boss’s exclusive world. Though after a disastrous marriage, she’ll never invite anyone into hers again. Yet as their public charade continues, Valentina finds herself ever more tempted to explore their explosive connection behind closed doors…

About The Author

My Review

This is a sizzling, emotionally rich romance featuring an older woman-younger man dynamic and a lavish Middle Eastern setting. British billionaire Desmond hopes to secure a major business deal by impressing a sheikh but ends up chaperoning the sheikh’s daughter alongside her assistant, Valentina. The attraction between Desmond and Valentina builds over one unforgettable night, leading to an unexpected fake marriage. Their chemistry is undeniable, but both must confront their emotional wounds before they can truly embrace love. With deftly handled character development, sensual romance, and a touch of opulence, this book delivers both heart and heat.

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Review Card & Book Review – The Farmer’s Marriage Bargain By Heidi Main

Could there be room for attraction?

Hunter has secretly been in love with her best friend’s brother Dylan for years, despite barely registering as a blip on his radar. She’s not even in the friend zone—more like friend zone adjacent. But her luck is about to change: Dylan is taking over her spare room, and she’s being promoted to roommate. Could this be the moment Dylan finally notices her?

Not so fast. When Dylan moves in, he carries more than just boxes—he brings complications. Suddenly, the dream of living under the same roof turns into a daily struggle. Dylan is off-limits, for reasons Hunter couldn’t have anticipated, and the closer they get, the harder it becomes to ignore her feelings.

But Hunter’s determined to keep her heart in check—no matter how difficult the task. She just has to avoid ogling him in a towel. Definitely don’t imagine what’s under the towel. And try not to swoon when he bakes cookies.

But after he saves her from a terrible date and they’re forced to share a sofa bed at his parents’ house, her emotions reach a breaking point. She’ll have to either move on or move out. Will she tell him the truth—or lose him forever?

About The Author

My Review

This heartwarming slow-burn romance follows Emma, a widowed mother of triplets, and Carter, her late husband’s best friend. To secure better insurance for one of her children, they enter a marriage of convenience, both vowing not to fall in love. However, as they spend more time together, their feelings deepen, leaving them torn between guilt and the possibility of a real future together. The story beautifully explores love, grief, and second chances, with Carter’s unwavering support and their growing chemistry making for a touching and emotional read.

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Review Card & Book Review – Wyoming Double Jeopardy By Juno Rushdan

A cowboy detective is in a showdown with a killer to protect an assistant DA

Waylon Wright can almost accept that he and Melanie Merritt can’t be together. Dating a detective wouldn’t just destroy her hopes for career advancement; it might be the end of her job as an assistant district attorney. Then a brutal attack sends his cowboy instincts into overdrive. Finding her assailant may not be his case, but he won’t let her out of his sight. As the tough prosecutor lets down her guard just enough to get close to Waylon, the killer who wants her dead inches ever closer…

About The Author

My Review

This book is a thrilling mix of mystery, action, and second-chance romance. Set in Laramie, Wyoming, the story follows Detective Waylon, a former Army Ranger, and Melanie, a determined assistant district attorney known as “The Closer.” Their past relationship ended due to Melanie’s career ambitions, but when a serial killer known as the Sand Dune Angel terrorizes the town, they are forced to work together. The novel is filled with twists, well-developed characters, and intense chemistry, blending suspense and romance seamlessly. While there are some darker themes and moments of violence, the book remains engaging and tastefully written, making for an exhilarating read.

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Review Card & Book Review – The Summer Of Starting Over By Savannah Carlisle

When Callie Jackson left her island hometown years ago with big dreams, she knew precisely the star she wanted to be, and she achieved it. At least for a little while.

Jesse Thomas had always planned to move to Nashville with Callie, but he was supposed to get there before her, knocking out his first year at Vanderbilt while she finished high school.

Neither of them imagined she’d get discovered so early or that family turmoil would put Jesse’s family on the brink of financial collapse. He needed to be on Big Dune Island, and she needed to leave. So, Callie did the only thing she could think of that would make him stay: she cut all ties.

Then, all her dreams came crashing down. As she sorts through the wreckage of her career, her Uncle Lonnie forces her to return to Big Dune Island to clean out the family home he’s recently sold. And she knows she’ll have to face Jesse.

About The Author

My Review

The story follows Callie as she returns to Big Dune Island, a place filled with both painful memories and the warmth of her past. Confronting the grief of losing her parents and the ache of walking away from her first love, Jesse, Callie embarks on a journey of healing that feels both deeply personal and universally relatable.

Carlisle beautifully weaves themes of second chances and self-discovery with a poignant slow-burn romance that feels authentic and satisfying. The island setting is vividly drawn, immersing readers in its sandy shores and small-town charm, while Callie’s reconnection to her music adds a moving layer of hope and renewal.

Heartfelt, evocative, and brimming with emotional depth, this novel will resonate with anyone who has ever longed for a fresh start or wondered if home—and love—might be waiting right where they left it.

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