Book Review – Page 42

Review Card & Book Review- On The Rocks By Leslie North

Crafting signature cocktails is my passion.Mixing things up with my oh-so-hot, mega-successful ex?A surefire recipe for the world’s most epic hangover.
I only agreed to compete in this mixology contest for one reason.To raise money so I can open my own speakeasy.And I have to admit, it’s a blast…until I see him.
Aiden Calihan. Heartbreaker extraordinaire. Grumpzilla.And now the billionaire owner of a luxury liquor brand.I’d love nothing more than to douse him with a Dirty Shirley.
Then, he goes and insults my already injured pride.The sculpted scumbag doesn’t even recognize me!And he expects me to flog his overpriced booze during the contest?
Oh, hell no!I’d rather drink bottom shelf bourbon from a broken glass.
But then he offers me a job I’d have to be punch-drunk to refuse.Create the perfect nonalcoholic drink.A gig that will fast-track my speakeasy dream.
With any luck, I won’t have to see much of the Grouch King.That is, until he starts invading my dreams.And like an alcoholic craving one more sip, I might be spiraling toward a romantic relapse…

About The Author

My Review

Cora, a skilled bartender and social media influencer known as the Masked Mixer, is thriving in her craft, creating innovative cocktails and winning contests. At a mixology event, her world is shaken when Aiden Callihan, the man who broke her heart in high school, unexpectedly shows up. To make matters worse, Aiden doesn’t even recognize her.

Now a successful liquor entrepreneur, Aiden is looking to launch a line of handcrafted mocktails and believes Cora is the perfect collaborator. Despite her initial rejection and visible disdain, a formal job offer from Aiden’s company forces Cora to reconsider for the sake of her dream to open her own bar and elevate her social media brand.

Their collaboration begins with sharp banter and unresolved tension, but as they work together, buried feelings resurface. Cora and Aiden are drawn back into the familiarity of their past, grappling with lingering heartbreak and the possibility of a second chance.

With lively dialogue, emotional depth, and a cast of delightful characters, this heartwarming story explores themes of forgiveness, ambition, and love, leaving readers eager for the next chapter in the series.

My Rating

Link To Purchase

Amazon

Barnes & Noble

Review Card & Book Review- Colton’s K-9 Rescue By Colleen Thompson

Justice awaits a serial killer…

With a K-9 team in hot pursuit.

To search-and-rescuer Malcolm Colton, hunting the fugitive who terrorized his family is worth any risk on a stormy mountainside. But when his trusty K-9 follows a scent, he’s stunned to encounter Giselle Dowling, the celebrity ghostwriter with whom he shares a past tragedy and personal trauma. It’s a bittersweet reunion as the estranged pair decide to work together to stop the killer. As their search brings them closer to the cult leader who threatens the Colton family, Giselle and Malcolm find themselves falling for each other. Can Malcolm’s K-9 help them bring down the killer and lead them to a future filled with promise?

About The Author

My Review

In Colton’s K-9 Rescue, the twelfth book in The Coltons of Owl Creek series, Malcolm Colton, a determined investigator with his K-9 partner, Pacer, crosses paths with Giselle Dowling, his late fiancée’s sister, during a perilous search. Both haunted by guilt and grief from a shared tragic past, they must confront lingering emotions, unravel dangerous secrets, and face a determined killer. With vivid descriptions, suspenseful twists, and heartfelt moments, Colleen Thompson crafts a compelling romance filled with resilience, healing, and unexpected challenges.

My Rating

Link To Purchase

Review Card & Book Review- A Vet To Heal His Heart By Caroline Anderson

RESISTING HIS UNEXPECTED HOUSEGUEST

Vet Ellie has arrived in Yoxburgh with no job, no home and a sick dog. Finding herself on the doorstep of gorgeous local vet Hugo, she begs him to save her adorable Lola. He does her one better, offering Ellie a role at his practice and a room above his own! Brokenhearted Hugo isn’t looking for a relationship. He’s suffered too much loss already. But working—plus living—together puts temptation repeatedly in his path. Because there’s something special about Ellie… Could she help him to finally move on from his grief and forge a future with her?

About The Author

My Review

After experiencing a personal tragedy a decade ago, Hugo has kept relationships at a distance, focusing on his vet practice and running to cope. When Ellie arrives at his clinic with her injured dog, the two begin to connect. Ellie, also a vet, takes temporary work at the clinic and stays in the apartment while her home undergoes renovations.

Hugo’s reluctance to open up and Ellie’s resilience make them relatable characters. The unique setting with two veterinarians as main characters adds a fresh perspective. This is a quick, mostly clean, slow-burn romance that explores whether Ellie can help Hugo heal and how she’ll react when she learns about his tragic past. It’s a heartfelt story with characters that are easy to root for.

My Rating

Link To Purchase

Review Card & Book Review- A Match For The Sheriff By Lisa Childs

The sheriff vows to find the truth…

But will it be worth the cost?

Sheriff Marsh Cassidy suspects his dad’s nurse, Sarah Reynolds, knows something about the fire at his family ranch. It’s his job and his family duty to find the truth, but he’s torn between finding answers and his growing feelings for Sarah and little Mikey. Sarah would do anything to protect her son, and it’ll take more than a white hat to gain her trust. When the truth about the fire finally comes out, will Marsh and Sarah lose everything…or find a way to have it all?

About The Author

My Review

Sarah, a single mom and nurse, has cared for Jessup before and after his heart transplant. Now that he’s healthy, she feels it’s time to move out. Meanwhile, her son Mickey is struggling with guilt, fearing he caused the fire at Jessup’s ranch but refusing to discuss it. Sheriff Marsh, the last bachelor in town, avoids relationships due to his demanding job and reelection campaign. However, his investigation into the fire leads him to spend time with Sarah and Mickey. Despite her reservations about Marsh, rooted in her past and her son’s well-being, Sarah can’t deny their growing connection.

This sweet romance blends relatable characters, meddling matchmakers, and a heartfelt story, keeping readers entertained until the final page.

My Rating

Link To Purchase

Review Card & Book Review- Perfect (Mis) Match By Leslie North

I’m not one for holding grudges. But when Vincent Forde, billionaire perfume tycoon, crashes his shiny overpriced car into mine? Yeah, I’m holding that grudge.

His flashy car, tailored suit, and brooding glare—everything about him screams entitled bosshole. And then he acts like it’s my fault! Seriously, who does this arrogant, sculpted devil think he is?

He covers the damages—but with a request that has me fuming—and I figure that’s the last I’ll ever see of Mr. Rich and Ridiculous.

Except, of course, it’s not. Guess who struts into my stepbrother’s engagement party like he owns the place? Yeah, it’s Mr. I’m-Too-Sexy-To-Drive-Properly, lounging by the bar like he’s posing for GQ. I think I hate him.

Only now, there’s something he wants from me. There’s a rare perfume ingredient he desperately needs. And Lord of the Scowl is willing to pay me ridiculous money to help get it. Oh and he also wants me to pretend to be his girlfriend. As if there’s anything remotely boyfriend-material about him.

This is a recipe for chaos. A perfect (mis)match. We’re like a car crash in slow motion. Sure, he revs up emotions I’d rather keep in neutral, but I’m not getting pulled in by that confident grin or those striking cheekbones.

Except… the more we pretend, the harder it is to remember it’s all fake. And I’m starting to wonder if I’m the only one wishing it was real.

About The Author

My Review

Perfect (Mis)Match is a captivating romance that follows the unlikely pairing of Piper Doyle, a talented photographer, and Vincent Forde, a wealthy and demanding CEO. Their relationship starts off disastrously when Piper accidentally damages Vincent’s prized Bugatti, and it’s marked by tension as they are forced to work together on a major project. The plot takes a twist when Vincent convinces Piper to fake a relationship to impress his father and secure a business deal. As they spend more time together, they start to see each other in a new light, with Piper discovering Vincent’s kind side and Vincent realizing Piper is a strong, independent woman with her own ambitions.

The novel excels at portraying the evolution of their relationship, transitioning from enemies to lovers with witty banter and chemistry. It also explores deeper themes, such as the pursuit of one’s passions, family dynamics, and the competitive nature of the business world. Overall, Perfect (Mis)Match is a heartwarming, engaging read that will resonate with fans of contemporary romance.

My Rating

Link To Purchase

Amazon

Barnes & Noble

Review Card & Book Review – Tracking Down The Lawman’s Son By Delores Fossen

A lawman will cross every line

To bring his missing baby home

When Bree McCullough narrowly escapes an attack on her life, Deputy Luca Vanetti rushes to his ex-lover’s side. But the worst is yet to come. When their two-month-old son is kidnapped, Luca and Bree must put their painful history aside and work together to bring Gabriel home. The truth could lie in Bree’s own past and her investigation into her father’s unsolved murder. As the violence escalates, Luca vows to protect Bree and their baby against an unseen threat…and a plot to silence them forever.

About The Author

My Review

Bree McCullough is attacked while investigating a murder, and her family, including her former lover Luca and her brother Slater, must protect her and her son Gabriel. As Bree and Luca work together to uncover the person behind the attack, they must also confront whether the attempt on her life is connected to her father’s murder or another case she was investigating. Their on-again, off-again relationship adds complexity to the situation, and they must navigate the danger while trying to protect their family. The story focuses more on intrigue and mystery than romance.

My Rating

Link To Purchase

Review Card & Book Review- Love In Translation By Joss Wood

This could be their greatest adventure yet…

A stressed-out translator on the brink of a meltdown and a thrill seeker with a serious case of wanderlust find love outside their comfort zones.

Up until a few months ago, Rheo Whitlock had it all. Stability, self-confidence and a safe job as an interpreter for the United Nations… It was the predictable sort of existence she, as a dedicated homebody, had always dreamed of—the security she’d needed thanks to her nomadic #vanlife upbringing. But ever since an unfortunate “hot mic” moment threw her career into a tailspin, she’s been struggling—really struggling—with fear, anxiety and uncertainty. A calculated escape is in order, and Rheo knows just the place: her grandmother’s secluded hideaway in the breathtaking town of Gilmartin.

Except she won’t be alone, thanks to a random twist of fate…

Fletcher Wright lives for adrenaline, always chasing the next high. So when he learns he’ll have to share his rental accommodations with Rheo—a stranger, basically—he simply chalks it up to another challenge. It doesn’t hurt that there’s an immediate attraction between them, which neither can explain. Before long, they’re not just sharing a house and new experiences—they’re sharing a bed. But when it’s time for Fletcher to move on to the next adventure, he and Rheo will both have to decide—are they ready to take the biggest risk of all?

About The Author

My Review

Rheo’s career as a UN interpreter is interrupted after a hot mic incident leaves her anxious and unable to work. She retreats to her grandmother’s cabin for solitude, only to find her cousin has arranged for Fletcher, a thrill-seeker friend, to stay there too. Despite their contrasting lifestyles, Rheo and Fletcher quickly develop chemistry. As they navigate personal growth, family dynamics, and their evolving relationship, the book explores themes of self-confidence, facing fears, and finding balance. The story also touches on chronic illness and neurodiversity. The romance is slow-burning, and the setting is quirky and charming.

My Rating

Link To Purchase

Review Card & Book Review- Stuck In The Country With You By Zuri Day

She’s packing her bags—and her baggage.

Ten years ago, Genesis Washington made a very poor decision. At the time, it seemed great. Fantastic. Explosive. But the truth is, your one-night rebound should never be your younger brother’s rival. And he definitely shouldn’t be someone who allegedly only slept with you to gain the upper hand—even if the sex was amazing.

Now Genesis is blindsided when the farm she’s inherited just happens to be right next door to Jaxson King, the regrettable one-night stand she’s still painfully attracted to. This man has aged like the finest of wines, and what’s worse, he’s now a thoughtful and responsible father. Good thing Genesis has a (*cough* long-distance *cough*) boyfriend. Well, sort of. It’s complicated.

Jaxson and his hotness should be easy enough to ignore. But when city-girl Genesis discovers there’s a serious learning curve to her humble new home, it’s Jaxson who’s there to lend a very skilled helping hand. With every problem that arises, Jaxson is seemingly making all the right moves—both on the farm and when things heat up behind closed doors. But, surely, that doesn’t mean he’s right for Genesis, does it?

About The Author

My Review

This is a charming romance about Genesis Washington, a city girl who inherits a farm next to Jaxson King, her past love. Ten years after a life-changing mistake, Genesis is confronted with her regrets and a rekindled connection with Jaxson, who’s matured into a responsible father. The chemistry between them is undeniable, filled with tension, humor, and sizzling moments. As they navigate their history and the challenges of country life, their bond deepens, creating an engaging and relatable story about love, growth, and second chances.

My Rating

Link To Purchase

Happy Publication Day – 18 June 2025

We Both Have Secrets By Emma Robinson

What I’m about to say is going to blow our lives apart. But there’s nothing else for it. I’ve tried so hard to keep it from you, not wanting to cause you pain. But I can’t hide it any longer. You deserve the truth. But I don’t know if there’s any coming back from this. And I’m terrified you won’t ever forgive me…

There’s nothing as strong as a mother’s love. As I watch my youngest daughter stride into her new life as a student, a sob catches in my throat. It feels like only yesterday that my two precious girls were playing together without a care in the world. I sacrificed so much to give them the life they deserved and I’d do it again in a heartbeat.

Looking at my husband Robert, tears in his eyes, I realise just how far we’ve come. Our daughters have flown the nest and now it’s time to re-kindle our own flame. So, when our long-lost friend Lucy invites us to her Spanish villa, I jump at the chance.

But when we arrive, instead of it being a romantic break, Robert begins to pull away from me. His conversation is muted, he goes for long walks on the beach alone and then I find a crumpled note on the bedside table and Robert has vanished.

In that moment, my entire world shatters. My husband has been keeping a devastating secret from me. But in order to find out just how much it will destroy our family, I will have to reveal something that I too have kept hidden. And once my own secret is out, will my family ever forgive me for what I did?

Review Card & Book Review- Beauty An The Brooding CEO By Juliette Hyland

TALE AS OLD AS TIME…

Trekking through snow to a billionaire’s secluded mountainous estate isn’t what art conservationist Cora expected when she took the job. However, the chance to review Everett Winthrope’s private collection—fulfilling her father’s final wish—is far too tempting… And, despite his scars, the brooding CEO is even more so! As her boss, he’s completely off-limits, but that doesn’t stop Cora’s pulse from racing. Yet it’s clear Everett’s fortress hides more than just himself. Could unveiling who he really is help him step out of the shadows…and into a future with Cora?

About The Author

My Review

Cora, an art restorer, accepts a job cataloging the collection of Everett, a reclusive billionaire scarred by a tragic accident. While the job offers her a fresh start and a chance to uncover a painting her father pursued for years, Everett initially cancels her contract. However, a storm forces her to stay at his mountain retreat.

As they spend time together, both confront emotional scars from their pasts and strained relationships with their fathers. Their shared love for art helps them heal and build a deep connection, culminating in a heartfelt happily-ever-after.

This Beauty and the Beast retelling offers emotional depth, compelling characters, and a unique focus on art, making it an engaging and memorable romance.

My Rating