Review Card & Book Review – Escape To The French Riviera By Helga Jensen

Can Lucy find her second-chance romance in the glamour of the French Riviera?

When aspiring author Lucy attends a rich friend’s 50th birthday party in glamorous Monaco, she has no idea that her life is about to change forever.

Heartsore after a broken marriage, she is not looking for love so when she meets Elias, and he offers to take her sailing on his employer’s boat, she agrees only as research for the book she desperately wants to write. They bond over their adult children – who seem to want to clip their wings and force them into living like pensioners – and the chemistry is undeniable.

But is he all he seems? And is she ready to trust again?

About The Author

My Review

This book follows Lucy, an aspiring author who attends a wealthy friend’s 50th birthday party in Monaco. Still healing from a broken marriage, she isn’t looking for love. However, when she meets Elias, a charming man who invites her sailing on his employer’s boat, she agrees—seeing it as an opportunity for book research rather than romance. As they spend time together, they bond over their adult children, who seem intent on limiting their independence. The chemistry between them is undeniable, but Lucy soon questions whether Elias is truly who he seems. More importantly, is she ready to open her heart again?

Jensen delivers a heartwarming and engaging later-in-life romance with well-developed, relatable characters. Lucy is an inspiring protagonist, and her journey—both as a writer and someone learning to trust again—feels authentic. The romance with Elias is written realistically, highlighting the challenges of dating with adult children in the picture. The setting in the French Riviera adds a rich, atmospheric backdrop, and the novel’s balance of humor, warmth, and heartfelt moments makes it an enjoyable read. Fans of uplifting, second-chance romances will appreciate this compelling and beautifully told story.

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Review Card & Book Review – Revenge Puck By L.A. Hart

After Elle Townsend is dumped by her hockey star boyfriend Christian Riley on the eve of the championship playoffs, she devises a plan for sweet revenge—a fake romance with Christian’s arch-rival. 

Preston Lawrence takes his hockey career very seriously because brawling on the ice is the only thing he’s good at. With the championship trophy and his contract extension on the line, he needs to figure out a way to control his temper that always flares and gets him ejected whenever he faces his rival. So, when a heartbroken blonde asks Preston for a photo with him to try to make Christian jealous, he raises the stakes. 

Known for avoiding the spotlight, Preston kisses Elle in front of a crowd of sports reporters, certain the video will go viral. Their “fake” kiss felt a little too real for Elle and Preston. It looks real to Christian too, who goes ballistic when he sees Elle in the stands wearing Preston’s jersey, and holding up a sign that insults the size of Christian’s “stick.” Infuriating Christian helps Preston keep his head in the game so his team could win game one of four. 

That’s why he suggests to Elle that they keep up their charade through the championships. Christian and Preston have a complicated history. 

Their rivalry intensifies further when they begin to fight over Elle. As Elle and Preston grow closer, secrets unravel, causing Elle to question if Preston’s feelings are genuine or just a part of his revenge plot against Christian. 

Will Preston be able to convince Elle that his feelings for her are real, or will Christian find a way to win her back? 

About The Author

My Review

After being dumped by her hockey-player boyfriend, Elle seeks revenge by taking a photo with his biggest rival, Preston. When Preston escalates things by kissing her in front of the press, their fake dating scheme takes off. As Preston plays his best game ever, he convinces Elle to keep up the act—but soon, real feelings develop. Now, Elle must figure out if Preston truly cares for her or if it’s still about getting back at her ex.

This is a fun, fast-paced hockey romance with humor, chemistry, and a bit of drama. While the fake dating setup starts off immature, the story improves as their relationship deepens. Some of Preston’s behavior toward Elle and other women is frustrating, but overall, this is an enjoyable, light read—perfect for when you want something quick and entertaining.

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Review Card & Book Review- Always By Helen Hardt

Take his breath away…

Braden and Skye have an electric connection that gets stronger with every boundary and every limit they push. There’s nothing Braden won’t explore with Skye…with one exception. Only now she’s the one who’s challenging him. Because what Skye wants is the one thing Braden can’t give her. And the only way he’ll be able to keep the woman he loves is to relinquish the one thing he’s mastered above everything else: control.

About The Author

My Review

Always by Helen Hardt is a compelling continuation of Braden Black and Skye Manning’s tumultuous love story. Told from Braden’s point of view, this installment dives deep into their emotional conflicts, exploring the challenges of a long-term relationship and the sacrifices love demands. The tension between them is palpable, especially when Braden breaks things off because he can’t give Skye what she wants. As both characters reflect on their priorities, the stakes rise when Skye’s life is put in danger, forcing Braden to confront what truly matters to him.

While this book may not have the same level of intensity as earlier installments, it plays a crucial role in rounding out their journey. The secondary characters add depth and fun, enhancing the story’s overall appeal. Fans of the series will appreciate this introspective look at Braden’s mindset, making Always a satisfying and necessary piece of their road to happily ever after.

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Review Card & Book Review – Change Of Heart By Falon Ballard

Campbell Andrews despises precisely three things in life: incompetence, lateness, and love stories. Having made partner at her law firm at thirty-four, she has no time for anything – or anyone – else. Especially after yet another disastrous first date.

But then she wakes up in Heart Springs – her own personal hell. The good news? She’s not dead. She’s just been magically transported to a small town straight out of the Hallmark channel, complete with a meddling mayor, seasonal festivals, friendly townsfolk . . . and Ben, her date from the night before. 

Cam really doesn’t have time for this, but in order to make it back to her real life, she must fulfil three tasks: find a career she’s passionate about, help the community, and find true love. It really seems impossible. 

But stuck in this pastel purgatory and forced to give Ben another chance, she starts to realise that maybe anything’s possible with a change of heart . .

About The Author

My Review

Campbell Andrews is a high-powered attorney with no time for love, but when her beloved grandmother insists she go on a date, she reluctantly agrees. She meets pediatric surgeon Ben Loving, assuming it will be a waste of time. However, after an inexplicable twist, she wakes up in the small town of Heart Springs—far from her old life—with Ben as her neighbor. Now, they must work together to find a way home.

This novel plays with the classic “big-city woman stuck in a small town” trope but adds a magical realism twist that makes it feel fresh and engaging. Campbell and Ben’s romance evolves from initial tension to deep emotional support, with Ben encouraging Campbell’s self-growth and Campbell making sacrifices for Ben’s happiness. The charming small-town setting, lovable side characters, and well-paced slow-burn romance make this a delightful, heartwarming read.

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Review Card & Book Review- Find Her By Katherine Garbera

A DEA agent has one goal in mind…
And getting personal could be deadly 

Lee Oscar has convinced herself she can keep her past in the past until an old friend tells her that a student of his has disappeared. Lee launches a search for the missing teen, colliding with DEA agent Aaron Quentin’s investigation. Together they forge an impromptu partnership—and make a fake relationship their cover. Lee and Aaron are determined to rescue the girl in danger while bringing down a deadly crime syndicate. Posing as lovers without succumbing to the ruse may be the more difficult task.

About The Author

My Review

This book delivers an exciting mix of action, suspense, and romance, keeping readers engaged from start to finish. Aaron Quentin is a compelling hero—haunted by past tragedy yet dedicated to his dangerous undercover mission. Lee, a brilliant but reserved tech expert, steps into an unfamiliar world to help a friend, only to find herself entangled in Aaron’s operation. Their chemistry is undeniable, and the fake relationship trope adds a layer of tension and emotional depth as they navigate their growing feelings.

The dual storylines—Aaron’s cartel investigation and Lee’s search for a missing teen—are expertly woven together, leading to unexpected twists and an intense, nail-biting climax. The author does a fantastic job balancing action with character development, making both the romance and suspense equally compelling. Fans of romantic suspense will love the blend of danger, intrigue, and heartfelt connection between two strong yet vulnerable protagonists.

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Review Card & Book Review – Starting Over In Starshine Cove By Debbie Johnson

Connie Llewelyn is the beating heart of the magical seaside village of Starshine Cove. She runs the local cafe, and is everybody’s friend – always on hand with a kind smile, a listening ear and a freshly-baked scone.

Since losing her beloved husband five years ago, she’s been busy raising her children, supporting her extended family and staying positive. Now, as her kids fly the nest, she finds herself wondering what her own future might look like.

When a face from the past unexpectedly arrives in Starshine, could meeting Zack again give her a second chance at love? Will Connie be brave enough to take a risk on living life for herself?

About The Author

My Review

Starting Over in Starshine Cove by Debbie Johnson is a heartfelt story about love, loss, and second chances set in a charming seaside village. The novel follows Connie Llewelyn, a former celebrity chef who left behind her high-flying London career for a quieter life in Starshine Cove with her soulmate, Simon. Now in her fifties and widowed, Connie runs a café while navigating grief, self-doubt, and the challenge of rediscovering herself.

When Zack Harris, a charismatic TV producer from her past, arrives, Connie is faced with new possibilities—both in love and in redefining her own identity. As she grapples with the pull of her past and the promise of the future, the novel explores themes of resilience, aging, and the power of community. With its rich character development, emotional depth, and vivid setting, this uplifting tale is perfect for anyone who believes in fresh starts and the magic of second chances.

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Review Card & Book Review – The Pucking Proposal By Lauren Landish

When it comes to hockey, unflappable Maple Creek sports reporter Joy Barlowe is privy to a lot of behind-the-scenes locker room activity. Like stumbling upon Dalton Days in all his unabashed glory. After the muscled goalie goes on to score better than he ever has, he proposes Joy take another peek before his next match. It works, and a provocative pregame tradition is born.

Dalton has the best stats in the league, but he’s also superstitious. Now he’s found his good luck charm. Joy is not only game, she’s playing along. She’s also his best buddy’s younger sister and totally off-limits. What happens between them has to be their late-night FaceTime secret. That’s the naked truth. So is the fact that Joy and Dalton are discovering there’s more to each other than meets the eye.

Falling in lust? Easy to hide. Falling in love? Much harder. Now Dalton has one more proposition for Joy. And the fallout could rock Maple Creek.

About The Author

My Review

Joy, a no-nonsense sports reporter, is smart, independent, and fed up with entitled athletes—especially since her overprotective brother, Shepherd, is one of them. But her resolve is tested when she finds herself face-to-face (and very up-close) with Dalton, the charming, cocky, and undeniably hot star goalie—and Shepherd’s best friend. What starts as a heat-fueled locker room run-in evolves into a secret pre-game ritual and, soon, a full-blown clandestine relationship.

The romance is steamy yet tender, with banter that crackles and plenty of internal conflict as Joy and Dalton navigate the risks of being exposed. Their dynamic feels natural and entertaining, with Joy’s journalistic integrity clashing deliciously with her growing feelings. Meanwhile, Dalton balances alpha confidence with surprising vulnerability, making him easy to root for.

What sets the book apart is its balance—between the laugh-out-loud humor, the red-hot tension, and the heartfelt exploration of loyalty, family, and professional boundaries. The sibling dynamic between Joy and Shepherd adds stakes and authenticity, and the supporting cast—especially other teammates—brings fun, camaraderie, and setup potential for future books.

Overall, it is a delightfully dirty, surprisingly sweet romp perfect for fans of sports romance with sass, steam, and heart. If you like secret relationships, forbidden love, and lots of locker room innuendo, this one’s a hat trick.

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Review Card & Book Review- Hook, Line And Single By Phoebe MacLeod

Ruby may be young, free and single… but she’s absolutely not ready to mingle.

Ruby is happily sworn off men. There’s nothing she needs that can’t get from her friends, cat or, frankly, the wonders of modern technology. So when her flatmate tricks her into going on a singles cruise, she’s furious.

Thankfully, Ruby isn’t the only one onboard under false pretences. Cameron also had no idea what he was letting himself in for. So after Ruby and Cameron strike up conversation, they agree to platonically pair off, to protect each other from the flirtatious advances of the other guests – not to mention the matchmaking efforts of Barry, the enthusiastic host.

There’s just one problem. Cameron isn’t just in the same boat as Ruby – he’s also good looking, kind and fun. As they explore the picturesque towns of the Mediterranean, Ruby finds herself enjoying his company much more than she’d intended.

Can Ruby keep her heart safe, or will she be in too deep by the time the boat docks at its final destination?

About The Author

My Review

Hook, Line and Single follows Ruby and her best friend Sam as they embark on a singles cruise. Ruby, still recovering from past relationship trauma, has sworn off men and is unaware of the cruise’s matchmaking agenda. Upon arrival, she discovers the cruise is filled with singles events, making her uncomfortable. Sam quickly pairs off with someone, leaving Ruby to navigate the cruise with Cameron, a fellow traveler also uninterested in dating games.

To avoid the awkward singles activities, Ruby and Cameron pretend to be a couple. Their plan goes awry when they miss the cruise ship, forcing them to travel across Europe to catch up, leading to comedic mishaps and a gradual, slow-burn romance. However, the romantic development is minimal until the final chapters, which may leave some readers wanting more. Despite this, the novel delivers humor and lighthearted fun, though Ruby’s friendship with the somewhat inconsiderate Sam is questionable.

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Review Card & Book Review- Happily Ever After By Jane Lovering

Andi Glover loves nothing more than a good book.

Any book in fact because when you’re raised by unconventional parents who think school’s for squares, alongside a deeply conventional sister who escapes home as soon as she can, fiction is eminently preferable to reality.

The only problem is that fiction isn’t the best way to learn about the real world. When Andi starts her new live-in job at Templewood Hall for the eccentric Lady Dawe and her enigmatic son Hugo, it’s tempting to think she’s fallen into the pages of one of her favourite gothic novels.

But the plot twists at Templewood Hall are stranger than fiction and it’s not long before Andi questions if she’s living in a romance novel or a whodunnit. Bumps in the night, a missing heir, ghostly apparitions and secrets that have been kept for generations – the mysteries mount up. Then there’s the inscrutable gardener who seems to appear when needed – is Andi right to hope for a happily-ever-after end to her story?

About The Author

My Review

This quirky novel blends gothic mystery and self-discovery rather than traditional romance. Andi, a book lover with no formal experience, takes a job cataloging a collection for the wealthy and aloof Lady Dawe. Growing up with parents who traveled constantly for their TV show, Andi found solace in books but struggled to build a life of her own. Upon arriving at the eerie estate, she meets Lady Dawe’s handsome son Hugo, a rude housekeeper, a deaf gardener, and a cat named The Master.

Andi soon realizes she was really hired to locate secret diaries revealing a long-ago affair between Lady Dawe and her late father-in-law. Gothic elements—mysterious noises, flickering lights, and literary chapter titles like Rebecca—add intrigue. Though Andi is interested in Hugo, the novel focuses more on her personal journey. A subplot about Hugo’s struggles feels somewhat distracting but is handled well. While Andi doesn’t fully find love or her life’s passion, the story is humorous and engaging, with a fitting conclusion that leaves room for new possibilities.

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Review Card & Book Review – What Happens In Paradise By Olivia Spring

What happens in paradise… stays in paradise!

Hotel guest relations manager Jasmine, also known as a Love Alchemist, adores her job at the exclusive Spanish Love Hotel. She prides herself on helping guests meet their perfect match. But matchmaking is absolutely forbidden between staff. And so Jasmine must resist the attraction she feels every time she’s around delectable sous-chef, Alejandro. The problem is, she knows the feeling is mutual. But she cannot jeopardise her job or break the rules.

Because all her hard work is about to be recognized when she’s asked to set up the new branch of the hotel in Jamaica. With an ocean between her and temptation, Jasmine is ecstatic. This is just the distance she needs to keep her feelings under control. But there is one kink in her plan… Alejandro has been asked to join her. For two whole weeks!

Under the sultry Jamaican sun, keeping it strictly professional becomes impossible when romance is literally all around them! So they agree a (secret) holiday fling may help satisfy their desires and then they can move on. After all, what happens in paradise stays in paradise… right?

About The Author

My Review

This is a heartwarming holiday romance set in the Love Hotel series. Jasmine, a gifted matchmaker and hotel guest manager, struggles with her attraction to sous-chef Alejandro, as workplace relationships are strictly forbidden. To avoid temptation, she accepts a role opening a new hotel branch in Jamaica, only to find Alejandro will be joining her for two weeks. Amid the tropical paradise, their secret romance unfolds, blending passion, self-discovery, and festive charm. Olivia Spring’s engaging storytelling, vivid descriptions, and emotional depth make this a delightful read for contemporary romance fans.

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