Book Review – Page 45

Review Card & Book Review- Christmas Bride’s Stand-In Groom By Sophie Pembroke

SOMEONE BORROWED, SOMEONE NEW…?

Conveniently marrying her best friend will give florist Millie the child she craves. Yet when her husband-to-be is called away on business, best man Giles comes to the rescue… Giles doesn’t believe in marriage. He’s learned the hard way that women only want his wealth. But this pre-Christmas rehearsal isn’t real, so he’ll happily step in for practice “I dos.” Trouble is, there’s nothing fake about the connection between this bride and her stand-in groom… With the big day looming, dare they speak now and find forever—together?

About The Author

My Review

In Christmas Bride’s Stand-In Groom, Charlie and his best friend Millie agree to marry as a practical arrangement—Millie gets the family she longs for, and Charlie ensures his title is passed on. When Charlie travels to Scotland on business, his other best friend, Giles, steps in to help with the wedding planning. Longtime rivals for Charlie’s attention, Giles and Millie find themselves spending more time together, and their initial animosity turns into unexpected romantic sparks. As Millie and Giles fall in love, it becomes clear that Giles is a far better match for Millie than Charlie. This heartwarming story blends the enemies-to-lovers and fake relationship tropes, showcasing emotional depth, strong friendships, and the magic of unexpected love.

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Review Card & Book Review – Pregnant Enemy Christmas Bride By Maisey Yates

It’s cold outside…
but they’re playing with fire!

CEO Florence Clare’s relationship with Hades Achelleos is…complicated. By day, her corporate enemy is the devil himself, their rivalry a thing of headline-grabbing legend. By night, they indulge in a clandestine affair. Equally brilliant, equally headstrong, they are one another’s forbidden rebellion…

Hades is fire personified, and Florence has always known their entanglement becoming public would be disastrous. But this Christmas, two little lines threaten to reveal her darkest secret—she’s pregnant. And the paparazzi sense scandal when the Greek tycoon announces his shocking new bride-to-be…

About The Author

My Review

Florence and Hades have shared an intense, decade-long, purely physical relationship rooted in their intertwined family histories and personal traumas. Both were shaped by their late fathers, rival CEOs who groomed their children to take over their respective companies. Despite their shared history and frequent encounters during business trips and social events, their relationship remained devoid of romance or genuine emotional connection.

Things take a turn when Florence learns Hades is engaged. Furious at his casual attitude toward their arrangement, she confronts him, leading to an angry farewell encounter. Determined to move on, Florence retreats to Lake Como to process her emotions, only to discover she is pregnant with Hades’ child. On the day of his wedding, she informs him and his fiancée, which leads to an unexpected twist—Hades cancels his wedding and marries Florence instead, fulfilling a stipulation in his father’s will.

The second half of the story shifts focus to the emotional growth of both characters. As they navigate their new marriage, they begin to confront their past wounds, open up about their feelings, and develop genuine affection and understanding. Over time, Florence and Hades transform their fractured dynamic into a real partnership, finding healing and love along the way. Their journey ultimately leads to a satisfying happily ever after, despite the rocky start.

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Review Card & Book Review- Taken At Christmas By Jodie Bailey

Keeping a little girl safe

means trusting no one…

When ex-deputy Mia Galloway is assaulted and threatened at her town’s Christmas parade, she’s convinced her adopted daughter is also in danger. Mia is rescued just in time by investigator Hayden McGrath, her late husband’s best friend, who vows to protect Mia and Ruthie. And the stakes only get higher when Ruthie’s birth mother is found murdered. Someone desperately wants this child, and they’ll stop at nothing to get her. With time running out, uncovering the truth is Hayden and Mia’s only hope of saving an innocent child…

About The Author

My Review

Taken at Christmas is a gripping blend of suspense and heartfelt emotion. Mia Galloway, a former soldier and deputy, is fiercely protective of her daughter, Ruthie, as they face a dangerous threat during the holiday season. However, Mia’s battle isn’t just external—she struggles with panic attacks stemming from the trauma of her husband’s death, adding a deeply personal dimension to the story.

At her side is Hayden, her late husband’s best friend, who has been a steady presence in her life. As danger intensifies, their connection grows, forcing them to navigate unresolved grief and the possibility of new love. Hayden becomes Mia’s anchor, offering support and safety as she pushes through her fears to protect her daughter.

This emotionally charged thriller explores themes of courage, resilience, and redemption, all set against a tense and chaotic Christmas backdrop. With compelling characters and a moving storyline, it’s a must-read for fans of suspense with emotional depth.

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Review Card & Book Review- Family Of Three Under The Tree By Traci Douglass

AN UNEXPECTED GIFT IN THEIR STOCKING

Radiologist Riley isn’t interested in romance. After an accident left her in a wheelchair, she’ll prove she doesn’t need anyone’s help—especially neurosurgeon Sam’s. But despite his being infuriatingly gorgeous, she can’t knock her new research partner’s commitment to their study. Single dad Sam’s still fighting his grief and is hell-bent on curing the disease that stole his wife. Yet he can’t stop thinking about Riley…or the way his little girl lights up around her. With their undeniable attraction growing, could a family of three top their Christmas lists?

About The Author

My Review

After losing his wife, Sam moves to Wyckford with his young daughter, Ivy, to start fresh and continue his medical research on the disease that claimed his wife’s life. Riley, a radiologist at Wyckford Hospital, is fiercely independent despite using a wheelchair after a tragic accident that killed her parents. Her ultimate goal is to regain her mobility and walk again.

Sam and Riley frequently cross paths at work and through Ivy’s friendship with Riley’s niece, Adi. Although they are drawn to each other, both are hesitant to pursue a relationship—Sam is still grieving, and Riley is focused on her recovery. Despite their reluctance, their bond deepens as they spend more time together.

Their journey is filled with challenges, but through trust, communication, and love, they discover that healing and new beginnings are possible. Set against the backdrop of Christmas, this story blends romance, hope, and family, offering an inspiring tale of finding love when you least expect it.

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Review Card & Book Review – Rediscovering Christmas By Mindy Obenhaus

She feels she’s lost everything…

Will love give her hope?

When a wildfire destroys her home, widowed schoolteacher Tori Stallings finds herself unexpectedly living with her mother- and brother-in-law—and struggling with her faith. With everything Tori owns consumed by the blaze, Micah vows to help his late brother’s wife and son rebuild their lives. The two of them have always been friends, but living under the same roof has their friendship turning into something more. Can love bloom amid tragic loss and shaken beliefs, and give them a fresh start for Christmas?

About The Author

My Review

Tori Stallings, a young widow and single mother, returns to her hometown with her six-year-old son, Aiden, to rebuild their lives. Welcomed by her late husband’s family, she works on restoring her inherited home while preparing for her new teaching job. However, her plans are derailed when a wildfire destroys her house, leaving her devastated and estranged from her faith and community. Micah, her late husband’s younger brother and former best friend, steps in with unwavering support, helping Tori heal and rediscover hope. Their friendship blossoms into love, but just as Tori begins to envision a future with Micah and Aiden, unforeseen challenges threaten their newfound happiness. Set in the close-knit town of Hope Crossing, this heartfelt story explores themes of faith, resilience, and second chances, offering readers an inspiring tale of personal growth and love.

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Review Card & Book Review – The Grump Whisperer By Katy James

Horse barn manager Bronwen Jones is just about at her wit’s end. The barn is under new ownership, and things are going downhill fast. Now the situation is dire: bills are unpaid, they’re low on feed and hay, and the mountain of manure is the stuff of nightmares.

Which is when he arrives. Former show jumper Ian Kingston is an absolutely gorgeous wreck of a man with a deep scowl. He had the career she always dreamed of—until his most recent injury destroyed any hope of professional riding. Ian wants nothing to do with Bronwen, the responsibilities for horses or anything that reminds him of what he’s lost.

Only, Bronwen isn’t about to let their resident Mr. Rochester off easy. Not when there are horses that need tending. And when a glorious but skittish stallion arrives, Bronwen and Ian are forced to work together—even as attraction crackles between them. Both must face the pile of crap that’s keeping them from moving forward…and the outcome may be the greatest ride of their lives.

About The Author

My Review

The Grump Whisperer by Katy James is the first book in the Morningsong Farm series, focusing on Bronwen, a devoted farm manager, and Ian, a grumpy former show jumper. When the farm is sold, Bronwen faces challenges under the new ownership, especially with Ian, who uses the farm as a retreat. Their initial animosity slowly shifts to romance, though the transition feels abrupt, with little emotional buildup. Set in a small-town atmosphere revolving around the farm, the story showcases Bronwen’s passion for horses but struggles with pacing, as key romantic developments feel rushed despite a promising start.

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Review Card & Book Review – A Cowgirl’s Christmas Reunion By Cari Lynn Webb

Everything is riding on Christmas…

Especially second chances

Ten years ago, former trick rider Willow Blackwell gave up on Christmas miracles…along with the idea of family and even love. But this year, the ghosts of Christmas past have reared up. Willow has one chance to perform with her sisters—the Blackwell Belles—and prove she’s the riding star she was born to be. But coming face-to-face with her ex, champion bull rider Nolan Elliot, is one reunion she’s not prepared for. It’s the ultimate holiday do-over. But is Willow finally leaving the past behind…or finding the love she was always meant to have?

About The Author

My Review

The final book in the Blackwell Belles series brings long-awaited resolutions, focusing on Willow’s story and her reunion with her sisters after years of estrangement. At the heart of the tale is Willow’s second-chance romance with Nolan, her teenage love, whose relationship was thwarted by her controlling mother during the peak of the Belles’ fame.

Willow and Nolan reconnect as adults, both at pivotal crossroads in their lives, and their journey is full of heartfelt moments as they grapple with the past and determine their future together. The reunion is sweet but not without challenges, as Willow navigates personal struggles while finding support in her sisters, who work through their own unresolved issues stemming from their mother’s choices and the dissolution of their touring act.

A highlight of the story is the warmth and love shown by Nolan’s family, especially as they embrace both Nolan and Willow during the holidays. Having missed out on traditional Christmases growing up, the festive setting adds a heartwarming touch, with Nolan’s family going “all in” to create meaningful memories.

This holiday-themed conclusion delivers closure on multiple fronts—addressing family healing, rekindled love, and personal growth—making it a fitting end to a series about sisterhood, forgiveness, and new beginnings.

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Review Card & Book Review – Church Girl By Naima Simone

She’s a preacher’s daughter, a runaway bride and now the (not quite) qualified nanny for a sexy tattoo artist with a beautiful daughter—and a dirty mouth.

What’s a bad boy to do with a woman like her?

Everything…

Aaliyah Montgomery isn’t just ditching her wedding. She’s also fleeing her suffocating small town and her family’s expectations. She’s got plans—for college, for finding herself. But landing a job in Chicago that fits her schedule isn’t easy. Good thing Von Howard is desperate to find a live-in nanny. Bad thing that he’s a gritty, grumpy, gorgeous tattoo artist carrying as much baggage as he has ink.

Von’s new hire is inexperienced and a fire hazard in the kitchen. She’s also all thick curls, thicker curves, and a distracting mix of innocence and sensuality. After the upheaval of a divorce, he just needs a nanny, not a sneaky link. Meanwhile, Aaliyah is bonding with his seven-year-old and showing an unexpected flair for tattoo art. Who could resist?

Yet deep down, Aaliyah’s still running—from her feelings and her fear of losing herself to someone else’s expectations again. Even as their pasts return to haunt them, their undeniable heat says maybe it’s time to stand and fight for a love they didn’t see coming.

About The Author

My Review

Aaliyah, seeking self-acceptance and freedom, leaves her fiancé at the altar and escapes Parsons, Alabama, for Chicago. With her cousin Tamara as her support, she focuses on education and finally putting herself first. In Chicago, she meets Von, a tattoo artist in need of a nanny for his seven-year-old daughter, Gia. Their instant chemistry and witty banter add charm to the story, while Von’s complex character—shaped by past betrayals—reveals unexpected depth. His devotion to Gia and growing care for Aaliyah highlight his softer side, making him irresistible. Aaliyah’s journey of finding her voice, prioritizing happiness, and staying true to herself is inspiring. The diverse, layered characters emphasize the importance of found family, and Aaliyah and Von’s story proves that love conquers all. I loved her engaging writing and fresh take on the grumpy-sunshine trope. Perfect for fans of women’s empowerment, healing, and inner growth—with plenty of spice!

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Review Card & Book Review – Second Chances At Hollyhock Farm By Georgina Troy

Festival season has come to Hollyhock Farm…

Since his sister Lettie took over their parents’ farm on the beautiful island of Jersey at the start of the year, Zac Torel’s life has changed completely. Zac loves Hollyhock Farm, and he’s determined to help Lettie succeed, but when their insurance company refuses to pay for the restoration of one of their barns in time for winter, the clock is ticking for the Torrels to raise the money themselves.

The siblings decide to host a wellness festival, but with the summer already well underway, they’ve got their work cut out to get everything ready before the season ends. Lettie recruits the help of Melody, a yoga teacher from Edinburgh. New to the island, Melody is determined to shake things up and make a success of Lettie’s festival.

But Melody has come to Jersey with more baggage than her small backpack implies. And as her friendship with Zac grows, will her past catch up with her?

About The Author

My Review

In Second Chances at Hollyhock Farm, Zac and Lettie Tovel are working to save their family farm after a storm damages a barn, leaving their animals vulnerable as winter approaches. With insurance falling short, they organize a wellness festival to raise funds for repairs. Zac, a sound engineer, and Lettie, a former fashion professional, are dedicated to preserving their 80-acre organic farm, which also houses rescue animals.

Melody, a yoga instructor, and her quirky grandmother, Patsy, join the farm as temporary residents, bringing fresh energy to the fundraiser. Melody takes a lead role in planning the event while forming a budding romance with Zac. However, both Zac and Melody carry personal secrets that threaten to complicate their growing relationship.

Set against the picturesque backdrop of Jersey, this heartwarming story highlights community spirit, second chances, and the joy of new beginnings. It’s a delightful continuation of the Hollyhock Farm series, leaving readers eager for the next installment.

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Review Card & Book Review – Sisters Making Mischief By Maddie Please

A fresh start with a French twist!

Joy Chandler had one simple wish: a nice, drama-free family reunion. But instead? Daughter Sara announces she’s getting divorced and seems determined to drown her sorrows in wine, while son John and his perfect wife Vanessa casually drop the bombshell that they’re moving to New York—without so much as making her a cup of tea!

So, with her patience gone, Joy packs her bags and heads to France to visit her free-spirited sister Isabel. Isabel’s potato farm might be rustic chaos but the sisters soon find themselves sloshing red wine, rediscovering their wild sides, and laughing until their sides hurt.

Before long, Joy has a new job, a new man, and a life that’s looking très magnifique. Turns out, drama isn’t so bad…when it comes with red wine and a side of sisterly mischief! Because these golden girls just want to have fun!

About The Author

My Review

This inspiring story follows Joy, a senior woman who reevaluates her life after a chaotic Christmas. A trip to France with her carefree sister sparks self-discovery, humor, and adventure. As Joy reclaims her happiness through a bucket list, new love with Luc, and embracing imperfection, she learns it’s never too late to live fully. Maddie Please’s heartwarming tale blends laughter, rich characters, and meaningful growth in a delightful celebration of second chances.

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