Book Review – Page 3 – My Sanctuary

Review Card & Book Review- Dead Set On You By Lexi Alexander

As workaholic Evie Pope nears thirty, she’s determined to slow down and start enjoying the “life” part of work-life balance. With a major promotion—and the financial security that comes with it—on the horizon, she might finally have her chance. But when she wakes up as a spirit in her work rival’s apartment and learns her body is stuck in a coma, her plans are officially DOA.

Being a spirit is bad enough. Discovering that Rafael Vela—the man who used to be her friend and is now her biggest rival—is the only person who can help her? It’s a special kind of purgatory. In no position to negotiate, she strikes a desperate deal: He gets the promotion if he helps reunite Evie’s spirit with her body.

As they begin to spend more time together, Evie discovers there’s more to Rafael than his bedroom eyes and his hey-there dimpled smile. With only a week until Evie’s body is transferred to long-term care and out of Rafael’s reach, Evie must choose between trusting the man who betrayed her years ago and figuring things out the way she’s always done it: alone.

This contemporary romance with a paranormal twist blends heated banter, old grudges, and unfinished business, perfect for anyone who believes in second chances.

About The Author

My Review

This is a wonderfully fresh and playful romance that blends workplace tension, paranormal chaos, and heartfelt emotion into one addictive story. From the moment Evie wakes up as a spirit trapped in her rival Rafael’s apartment, the book hooks you with its originality and charm. What could have felt gimmicky instead becomes a clever setup for a story full of banter, vulnerability, and unexpected connection.

Evie is an instantly likable heroine—driven, fiery, and fiercely independent—while Rafael strikes the perfect balance between infuriating and irresistible. Their shared history adds delicious friction to every interaction, and watching their animosity slowly melt into something softer is incredibly satisfying. The forced proximity and teamwork lead to standout scenes that highlight their chemistry and deepen their emotional bond.

What really works is how the story mixes humor with genuine stakes. Evie’s race to reclaim her body adds urgency, but the tone remains warm and engaging throughout. The paranormal twist never overshadows the romance; instead, it amplifies the tension and growth between the characters.

Overall, this is a fun, romantic, and unexpectedly heartfelt read that keeps you smiling—and turning pages.

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Review Card & Book Review – The Lighthouse At The Cove By Amy Clipston

Sometimes the road home isn’t on a map.

After a painful breakup and a stalled career, journalist Kaiah Ross sets out on a reporting road trip down the East Coast, hoping the miles will help her find her way again. But when car trouble strands her in the postcard-perfect town of Coral Cove, she’s forced to stop running–and unexpectedly finds herself drawn into a life that feels like something out of a dream.

Reid Turner has spent years putting others first–his career as a firefighter, his spirited young daughter, Piper, and the small town he’s always called home. The last thing he’s looking for is a relationship. But from the moment Kaiah arrives, her kindness, warmth, and quiet strength stir something in him he thought was long buried.

When Kaiah agrees to help promote the town’s annual “Light the Dark” Festival–a celebration meant to save Coral Cove’s historic lighthouse–what begins as a simple arrangement quickly turns into something more. Late nights of planning under string lights, shared laughter over coffee, and quiet, heartfelt moments with Piper begin to weave Kaiah into the fabric of Reid’s life . . . and into his heart.

But just as love begins to blossom, Kaiah is faced with an offer that could relaunch her career and take her far from Coral Cove. Now, she’s forced to choose between the life she thought she wanted and the unexpected love that’s given her a glimpse of home.

About The Authorj

My Review

This is a warm, feel-good romance that captures all the charm of a Hallmark movie while still offering genuine emotional depth. The story follows Kaiah, who lands unexpectedly in Coral Cove when her car breaks down. What begins as an inconvenient detour quickly becomes something more meaningful as the town embraces her and firefighter Reid—along with his sweet daughter, Piper—offers her a temporary place to stay.

As delays keep her in town, Kaiah throws herself into helping with the “Light the Dark” Festival, using her journalism and marketing background to boost the community’s efforts to save the school and the lighthouse. Through these moments, she grows closer to Reid, his family, and the town she never expected to love. But when career opportunities arise that could take her far from Coral Cove, Kaiah faces a heartfelt choice: pursue the dream she’s always wanted or embrace the unexpected life—and love—she’s found.

With tender themes of healing, hope, and new beginnings, this sweet, cozy romance delivers charm, heart, and a setting that feels wonderfully alive.

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Review Card & Book Review – Christmas Cottage Getaway By Tara Taylor Quinn

Christmas, canines and courtship…

Dale Wilson’s life hasn’t been “good” since his beloved wife died—at least until Millie Monroe moves to Ocean Breeze. Dale and his dog Juice can’t help but be drawn to the pediatric nurse. A widow herself, Millie understands not wanting romance. Finding unexpected common ground has given them both a friendship they’ve craved. Plus, their respective pups have become friends, too! But Dale has a secret—he’s bestselling author WG Gunder. Not something he readily wants to admit to the woman in his heart…and his bed. Perhaps the Christmas spirit can teach him that sometimes happily-ever-after is disguised as a new beginning…

About The Author

My Review

This is a gentle, emotionally grounded holiday romance that captures the tender beauty of second chances. Tara Taylor Quinn brings together two wounded souls—Dale Wilson, a widower struggling to rebuild his life, and Millie Monroe, a pediatric nurse carrying her own grief—in a story that feels both heartfelt and quietly hopeful. Their connection begins with shared understanding and the comfort of companionship, helped along by their loyal dogs who mirror their owners’ budding bond.

Quinn handles grief with sensitivity, allowing Dale and Millie to move toward one another at an authentic, vulnerable pace. Dale’s secret identity as bestselling author WG Gunder adds an intriguing layer, creating tension between honesty, fear, and emotional intimacy. His reluctance to reveal the truth deepens the stakes as their friendship slips into something warmer and deeply needed.

The included quote perfectly reflects the early spark between them—Millie’s instinctive wave, her surprise at her own reaction, and her hesitance to pass by again. It’s a small moment that captures the story’s essence: quiet gestures that lead to unexpected healing.

A touching, uplifting holiday read about love finding its way back.

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RevIew Card & Book Review – I Do, For Now By Christy McKellen

Welcome to the fake wedding of Xavier and Solitaire 🤫

Saving her family’s beloved café is Solitaire Saunders’ top priority. Even if it means walking down the aisle with a man she barely knows! Billionaire Xavier McQueen needs a wife to unlock his inheritance, and Solitaire, with her charming chaos, is surprisingly perfect for the job. It’s purely a business transaction with no emotions attached. What could go wrong?

Because all too quickly, the lines between fact and fiction begin to blur. Catching feelings was never part of the contract, but when Solitaire’s sunny disposition begins to melt Xavier’s frosty exterior, revealing a surprisingly soft side beneath the boardroom bravado, both are powerless to resist each other. And as the sparks continue to fly in their temporary marriage, will they continue to fake it until they make it, or finally admit they want more than they signed up for?

About The Author

My Review

This is a charming, witty romantic comedy that perfectly blends humor, heart, and slow-burn romance. Xavier McQueen, a wealthy property owner, faces a ticking deadline: he must marry within three months to inherit his family’s historic Hampsted Mansion. Enter Solitaire “Soli” Saunders, a sweet, determined woman trying to save her family bakery from rising rents. When she impulsively agrees to marry Xavier in a “marriage of convenience” arrangement, the stage is set for hilarity, awkward encounters, and undeniable chemistry.

Living under the same roof but in separate rooms, Soli’s persistence and warmth slowly chip away at Xavier’s guarded heart. Xavier, burned by a previous relationship, wants nothing more than to fulfill the terms of his late aunt’s will—but he can’t ignore the growing attraction between them. Their banter is playful, their moments of connection are heartfelt, and the push-and-pull tension keeps the story engaging from start to finish.

Christy McKellen skillfully balances humor, romance, and emotional depth in this delightful rom-com. I Do, For Now is a feel-good, page-turning story about love, trust, and the unexpected ways hearts can change.

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Review Card & Book Review – Christmas Security By Lisa Childs

They’re dodging a killer

And finding each other

Biophysicist Dr. Priscilla Pell fears for her life—and the life of her unborn child. Living in the mansion where she’s still unwelcome among her late husband’s family, she doesn’t know whether the threats are coming from inside or outside. That’s why she hires professional security. She’s grateful for Blade Sparks’s around-the-clock protection, but his constant presence makes it impossible to ignore the effect he has on her. After a Christmas-shopping excursion that should be a distraction takes a lethal turn, Priscilla and Blade can no longer pretend that their relationship is purely professional…

About The Author

My Review

This is a gripping romantic suspense that perfectly blends danger, intrigue, and sizzling romance. Blade Sparks, a man with a troubled past—having served time for unintentionally killing an abuser—now works for the Payne Protection Agency. His latest assignment is protecting Dr. Priscilla Pell, a widow carrying on her late husband’s groundbreaking medical research while also expecting his heir through IVF. Blade expects an elderly client but is stunned when the young, determined Priscilla surprises him while he’s scouting the estate.

Priscilla is smart, driven, and resilient, facing threats to her life and work with courage and determination. Blade, protective and strong yet vulnerable beneath the surface, finds himself drawn to her instantly. As danger closes in with lethal attempts on her life, the tension between them intensifies, blending high-stakes suspense with a slow-burning, steamy romance.

Lisa Childs crafts a story full of emotional depth, family drama, and pulse-pounding intrigue. The characters are engaging, relatable, and instantly compelling, making it easy to become fully invested in their journey. Christmas Security is a thrilling, heartfelt, and page-turning holiday read that perfectly balances romance and suspense.

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Review Card & Book Review- Call Me Anytime By Max Monroe

Down and almost out in Nashville, Hannah May takes a job at what she thinks is a telemarketing company. To her shock, it’s a phone sex hotline. Unfortunately, the only role-playing Hannah can do with conviction is as a cash-strapped twenty-five-year-old virgin caring for a mother with Alzheimer’s. If only her callers were into that fantasy. Instead, one of them is looking for a killer.

Detective Dominic Dunn is investigating the murder of another hotline operator when Hannah’s endearing awkwardness, quirky charm, and fierce devotion to her mother crack his professional facade. Despite the circumstances, their connection is instant and electric. For the first time in years, Hannah finds herself living instead of just surviving—even if that means playing amateur sleuth between awkward attempts at phone seduction.

But as their relationship deepens and the investigation intensifies, Dominic’s protective instincts go into overdrive. With every call Hannah takes, she gets closer to both love and danger.

Because somewhere in Nashville, on the other end of her line, a killer is waiting.

About The Author

My Review

This is a wonderfully entertaining rom-com that delivers everything I love—humor, heart, and just enough suspense to keep me guessing. Hannah May is down on her luck, trying to keep up with bills while caring for her mother, who’s living with Alzheimer’s. When she accidentally lands a job at a phone-sex hotline, her life takes a chaotic—and hilariously unexpected—turn. She’s awkward, sweet, and completely out of her element, which only makes her even more endearing.

Then there’s Detective Dominic Dunn, who’s investigating a murder tied to the hotline. Their connection sparks instantly, even under the strangest circumstances, and their chemistry builds beautifully throughout the story. Their meet-cute is absolutely bonkers—equal parts chaotic, awkward, and charming—and I found myself grinning through entire chapters.

The blend of comedy, mystery, romance, and genuine emotion works incredibly well. One moment the story has you laughing out loud, and the next it surprises you with tender, heartfelt moments—especially when exploring Hannah’s devotion to her mom. That emotional depth adds a meaningful layer to all the flirtation and chaos, making the entire journey feel warm, engaging, and completely irresistible.

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Review Card & Book Review- Big Sky Safe House By Juno Rushdan

Can he stop the killer

who has found her again?

The only woman to escape the notorious Yuletide slayer, Nora Santana wants to stop running and put down roots in this tight-knit Montana town. But a chilling holiday message from her Secret Santa tells Nora her carefully constructed cover has been blown. Out of options, she must rely on Ironside Protection investigator Bo Lennox to keep her alive. With the fatalities rising, Bo and Nora confront their taboo attraction as they unearth long-buried secrets…and a killer who’s closer than they could ever imagine…

About The Author

My Review

This is a tense, emotionally charged romantic suspense novel that blends danger, trauma, and fierce connection into a gripping read. Nora, having survived multiple brutal attacks that claimed the lives of her closest friends, has lived years in the shadows—haunted, isolated, and determined to stay hidden. When a relentless killer resurfaces with chilling precision, she’s forced back into the open and into the care of Bo, a steadfast protection agent committed to keeping her alive.

Bo’s dedication to the job clashes with the immediate, powerful pull he feels toward Nora. Their chemistry is present from the first page—more instant spark than slow burn—as Nora finds herself drawn to Bo’s strength, gentleness, and understanding. Despite his worries about compromising the mission, she pursues the connection, and their shared scars create an unexpectedly deep emotional bond.

Rushdan crafts a villain who is both vicious and cleverly concealed, keeping the suspense sharp and the mystery engaging. With a satisfying resolution and a hopeful ending that hints at lasting happiness, Big Sky Safe House delivers a thrilling blend of high-stakes action and heartfelt romance perfect for fans of protective heroes and resilient heroines.

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Review Card & Book Review – The Christmas Playbook By Lisa Carter

When the goal is love
it’s time to break the rules…

When her football coach father has a sudden heart attack, Maddie Lovett finds help from an unlikely source: her high school crush, Tanner Price. Back in town to care for his mother, former star athlete Tanner agrees to step in temporarily. As he leads the team to the state championships, Maddie’s support helps him see her as more than just the coach’s daughter. But when a family crisis occurs, Tanner knows his time in Truelove is limited. With his Christmas departure quickly approaching, can Maddie convince him to stay…for more than just football?

About The Author

My Review

This is a heartfelt and faith-filled holiday story that explores family bonds, second chances, and the quiet courage needed to care for those who are struggling. When Tanner Price returns home for Christmas after months working on the oil rigs, he is confronted with painful family challenges and the heavy responsibility of doing what’s right for a loved one facing a debilitating condition. What could have been an overwhelming season becomes bearable through the support of his tight-knit small-town community.

At the center of that support is Maddie Lovett—a warm, generous woman whose servant-hearted nature brings light into Tanner’s darkest moments. She’s the kind of character readers instantly root for, offering compassion without judgment and reminding Tanner that hope still exists even when circumstances feel bleak.

Though football is woven through the narrative, the story’s heart lies in healing—broken families, hurting individuals, and relationships scarred by time. Lisa Carter delivers a touching reminder that faith, love, and community can restore what feels lost. Tender, uplifting, and inspiring, The Christmas Playbook is a beautiful holiday read about renewal, grace, and finding God’s timing in every season.

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Review Card & Book Review – Fiancé Under The Mistletoe By Jacquelin Thomas

Their fake engagement…

Could be a Christmas calamity!

Tami Adams can’t resist Christmas on beautiful Polk Island—but getting dumped shortly before the holidays wasn’t her plan. So, she forms a new plan to guarantee a truly happy festive season, free from her mother’s pushy matchmaking: get fake-engaged to her best friend, Aiden Worthington. Aiden’s avoiding Christmas since his dad passed, but helping Tami might help him get through the holidays. There’s only one problem—this pretend relationship’s feeling a little too real. Going from “coupled for Christmas” back to “just friends” might be harder than they thought…

About The Author

My Review

This is a warm, festive, and emotionally uplifting holiday romance that blends fake-engagement fun with genuine heart. Tami Adams arrives on picturesque Polk Island expecting Christmas cheer—not a breakup. Determined to avoid her mother’s relentless matchmaking and salvage her holiday spirit, she strikes a deal with her best friend, Aiden Worthington: they’ll pretend to be engaged for the season. What begins as a simple plan quickly becomes complicated as long-buried feelings surface and their easy friendship deepens into something undeniably real.

Jacqueline Thomas beautifully captures the magic of the holidays while exploring themes of grief, healing, and the quiet bravery it takes to open your heart. Aiden’s struggle with Christmas after his father’s passing adds emotional depth, balancing Tami’s journey toward rediscovering joy and self-worth. Their chemistry is tender and believable, especially highlighted in scenes like Aiden’s unforgettable entrance—confident, composed, and offering Tami the comfort she didn’t realize she needed.

With its cozy island setting, heartfelt moments, and irresistible best-friends-to-lovers charm, Fiancé Under the Mistletoe is a delightful holiday read that delivers warmth, romance, and hope.

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Review Card & Book Review – Twisted Love By Laura Carter

🔪 Would you keep a deadly secret?

⚠️ Would you risk everything?

Gregory Ryans asked me for loyalty, and I gave it. I gave him every last piece of me.

I’ve done things I never thought I was capable of. Crossed lines I swore I’d never cross. And through it all, I stayed.

But the longer I stand at his side, the more the weight of his past crushes us both.

He thinks money can fix everything. But he’s wrong.

Because those ghosts from his past are coming for him. For us. And every secret he’s buried is one step closer to destroying the man I can’t seem to walk away from.

Loving Gregory Ryans might be the one thing that finally ruins me…

About The Author

My Review

Twisted Love continues Scarlett and Gregory’s gripping journey, delving into the aftermath of Gregory’s father’s murder with emotional intensity and heartfelt complexity. As the police investigate, Gregory sticks to his version of events, creating tension and driving Scarlett to reflect on how much she has changed. Her inner journey adds depth to the story, showing a heroine learning more about herself while navigating a complicated and passionate relationship.

Laura Carter skillfully balances suspense, romance, and character growth, allowing readers to connect deeply with both Scarlett and Gregory. Their dynamic is filled with longing, unspoken emotions, and moments of tender vulnerability, making their evolving relationship both realistic and compelling. While the story takes its time exploring the emotional layers, this allows for richer character development and a deeper understanding of the stakes involved.

Fans of the series will be pleased to see familiar characters facing new challenges and personal revelations. Though slightly slower in pace than the first book, Twisted Love remains a captivating and emotionally engaging read that leaves readers eager for the next instalment.

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