Book Review – Page 5 – My Sanctuary

Review Card & Book Review – Carnival Cold Case By R. Barri Flowers

His mind should be on the case

But he can’t stop thinking of her

When Stefanie Nguyen discovers a dead body at the annual Founder’s Day celebration, police detective Campbell Sawyer picks up the case. Could the murder be related to a cold case his father worked? Or to a sinister cult? Despite his goal of keeping things strictly business, Campbell is deeply drawn to Stefanie as he investigates the mystery. Can he keep her safe as the danger escalates?

About The Author

My Review

This book is about a dangerous investigation that reignites the past while sparking an intense romance between two people drawn together by mystery and attraction. In this story , Stefanie and Campbell are pulled into a complex case when a dead body is discovered, leading them through twisting clues that may connect to a decades-old investigation involving Campbell’s father.

Despite being the second installment in the Criminal Case Files series, the story is easy to follow and quickly immerses readers in the suspenseful world of the characters. The mystery unfolds at a steady pace, balancing investigative tension with the emotional development of Stefanie and Campbell’s relationship. Their growing attraction adds another layer of intensity as Campbell struggles to protect Stefanie while confronting his feelings.

The plot is filled with unexpected turns, hidden connections, and satisfying reveals that keep the pages turning. The blend of romance and suspense works particularly well, offering both emotional depth and thrilling intrigue. Overall, this is a compelling romantic mystery that will appeal to readers who enjoy solving puzzles alongside a heartfelt, high-stakes love story.

Romantic Suspense

Murder Mystery Investigation

Protective Hero

Slow-Burn Romance

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Review Card & Book Review- A Rocky Mountain Reunion By Debra Moser

They’re worlds apart…

Can love bridge the gap?

Paleontologist Meg Farrell’s real life is twelve hundred miles away from her hometown in the Colorado Rockies. But every time she returns to Bent Fork, she’s reminded how much of an outsider she still feels like—her whole family treats her as if she’s too fragile for ranch work. But neighboring rancher Joe Hawk sees not only how capable she is but how smart and kind she is, as well. When they rescue an injured dog together, she’s reminded of why she fell for him all those years ago…and the danger of repeating old mistakes. Yet Hawk might be the one piece of history Meg can’t leave in the past.

About The Author

My Review

This book is about returning home, rediscovering first love, and finding the courage to choose the life that truly feels right. In this book, paleontologist Meg Farrell comes back to her Colorado hometown and is reminded how out of place she still feels among her ranching family. While they see her as fragile, neighboring rancher Joe Hawk recognizes her strength, intelligence, and heart—just as he did years ago.

The story beautifully blends small-town charm with a gentle second-chance romance. Meg’s internal conflict about her future adds depth as she weighs multiple career paths, including teaching, running a museum in Michigan, or continuing her work in paleontology—especially after discovering intriguing fossils on Joe’s ranch. These choices give the narrative a thoughtful, realistic layer beyond the romance.

Meg and Joe’s rekindled connection unfolds with warmth and sincerity, strengthened by shared memories, quiet longing, and moments of teamwork as they rescue an injured dog and support each other through challenges. The pacing is soft and comforting, perfect for readers who enjoy heartfelt, character-driven love stories set against a cozy, scenic backdrop.

Second Chance Romance

Small-Town Romance

Coming Home

Childhood Friends to Lovers

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Review Card & Book Review – Doctor’s Nine-Month Rival By Kristine Lynn

Co-parenting with the enemy!

After fleeing her controlling ex, Dr. Jacqueline won’t be tied down. But the thrill of being chased by a stranger in a Texas bar is intoxicating… And the tryst that follows? Irresistible! Only to discover her mystery lover is Dr. Rhett—the trauma doc she’s competing against for her dream job at Austin Memorial! Just because she was thoroughly seduced by Rhett doesn’t mean he’ll distract Jack from her career goals! Yet, there’s another bump in the road—she’s carrying Rhett’s baby!

About The Author

My Review

This book is about an ambitious doctor determined to rebuild her life—only to find her biggest professional rival is also the man who changed her future forever. In this story , Dr. Jacqueline escapes a controlling marriage and vows to focus solely on her career. A spontaneous night with a charming stranger feels like a fresh start—until she discovers he’s Dr. Rhett, the trauma doctor competing for her dream job at Austin Memorial…and the father of her unexpected baby.

This medical romance blends workplace rivalry with an unplanned pregnancy trope, creating a story full of tension, emotional growth, and heartfelt moments. Jack’s determination to maintain independence while navigating vulnerability makes her a compelling heroine, and Rhett’s steady support softens the competitive edge between them.

Overall, this book is a quick, easy read with implied intimacy rather than graphic scenes. The drama leans slightly over-the-top, but it adds to the escapist charm. Overall, it’s a light, entertaining romance about ambition, trust, and discovering love when life takes an unexpected turn.

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Review Card & Book Review- The Trouble With Italian Millionaires By Karin Baines

A taste of Mediterranean temptation…

Thaleia has had enough of uncommitted men and controlling parents. Her new island life is completely her own. Until Enzo sails in on his superyacht! Her brother’s best friend is a bachelor through and through. He’s also the only one who understands Thaleia’s need for freedom. And for the first time, she sees the chinks in his playboy armor. The problem is, the Italian millionaire isn’t just kind, sexy and misunderstood…he’s utterly off-limits, too!

About The Author

My Review

This book is about a fiercely independent woman determined to rebuild her life—and the charming Italian millionaire who challenges her resolve at every turn. In this book, Thaleia escapes the pressure of her wealthy Greek upbringing after being left at the altar and starts fresh on an island, crafting jewellery on her own terms. Her carefully guarded independence is shaken when Enzo, her brother’s best friend and notorious playboy, sails into her new life.

The story blends escapist glamour with emotional depth, using the sun-drenched island setting to create a vibrant, romantic backdrop. Thaleia’s journey toward trusting again feels heartfelt and relatable, while Enzo’s struggle to move beyond his bachelor reputation adds meaningful character growth. Their chemistry is lively and playful, balanced by introspective moments that explore freedom, commitment, and self-worth.

The opposites-attract dynamic keeps the pace brisk and engaging, with tension driven by their off-limits connection and shared vulnerability. Steamy, fun, and emotionally satisfying, the novel delivers a classic romance filled with sparkling banter, personal growth, and the promise of love worth taking a risk for.

Opposites Attract

Brother’s Best Friend

Runaway Bride

Billionaire (Italian Millionaire) Romance

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Review Card & Book Review- How To Resist Your Billionaire Ex By Jenny Lane

A weeklong getaway to the past…

Travel writer Blake’s latest assignment is a sun-drenched stay at a luxury Napa Valley resort. Lush landscapes, decadent food and wine—what’s not to love? Apart from perhaps running into Sloane, the ex-girlfriend that left a decade ago without explanation. The pain of abandonment is as strong as ever, but Blake’s on the verge of a big break; she can’t walk away. Even if it means confronting buried secrets…and their scorching chemistry! Has their romance run its course—or aged like a fine wine?

About The Author

My Review

This book is about second chances, unresolved heartbreak, and a love that refuses to stay in the past. In this book, travel writer Blake lands a dream assignment: a sun-drenched stay at a luxury Napa Valley resort filled with lush landscapes, decadent food, and endless wine. The catch? Coming face-to-face with Sloane—the ex who left a decade ago without explanation.

The emotional stakes are clear from the start. Blake’s lingering pain and determination to focus on her career create a strong inner conflict, especially as old wounds resurface alongside undeniable chemistry. The vineyard setting adds a romantic, escapist charm that beautifully mirrors the theme of love aging like fine wine.

The characters are warm, likeable, and thoughtfully developed, making it easy to invest in their journey. The tension between past hurt and present attraction drives the story, while Sloane’s attempts to reconnect add depth and emotional growth. Their push-and-pull dynamic feels genuine and heartfelt.

Overall, this is an entertaining and heartwarming second-chance romance filled with scenic charm, emotional healing, and a satisfying rekindled love story.

Second Chance Romance

Exes Reunite

Forced Proximity

Emotional Healing

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Review Card & Book Review – More Than Friends By Denise Hunter

Jenna Greene just ended things with her boyfriend . . . which also ended her career. (That’s the risk a girl takes when her boyfriend doubles as her boss.) With no income and no job prospects in sight, Jenna is forced to return to her mother’s house on Chincoteague Island, Virginia, to figure out what’s next. And the timing couldn’t be more perfect. Jenna’s widowed mother has just returned from a cruise–with a brand-new boyfriend in tow. But there’s something off about the guy. His story doesn’t quite add up, and he keeps sneaking off to make suspicious phone calls and borrowing money from her too-trusting mother.

In search of some investigative help, Jenna turns to her childhood BFF, Tyson Parker, who lives and works in town. Still reeling from his wife’s infidelity, Tyson is doing his best to heal from the pain of divorce. He’s made a name for himself on the island as a volunteer firefighter and one of the much-admired saltwater cowboys who looks after Chincoteague’s wild ponies. Oh, and he turned out to be more than a tiny bit attractive–besides being almost-too-good-to-be-true sweet and caring.

Growing up, the uber-competitive Jenna was always accepted as one of the guys. But things have changed between her and Tyson, and he’s now looking at her through new eyes. Jenna suddenly feels like a leading lady on a movie set–only with way less composure.

But Jenna also has old wounds that make these new feelings seem fraught with peril. Is she willing to open her heart and see where love might lead? Or will she let her hesitant heart hold her back?

About The Author

My Review

This book is about lifelong friends Jenna and Tyson, whose deep bond begins to shift as they slowly realize their feelings may be more than platonic. In More Than Friends by Denise Hunter, the transition from friendship to romance is handled with warmth, patience, and heartfelt sincerity.

The story shines through its gentle pacing and emotionally grounded characters. Jenna and Tyson’s connection feels authentic, shaped by years of shared memories, trust, and unspoken affection. Their hesitation to risk their friendship adds believable tension, making the slow-burn romance especially satisfying. Watching them navigate vulnerability, fear, and hope gives the relationship a tender realism that feels comforting and genuine.

The supporting cast adds depth and charm, particularly the strong, loving family dynamics that surround both protagonists. The book also explores themes of self-discovery as Jenna and Tyson reflect on their careers and future goals, giving the romance a relatable, real-life backdrop.

A light mystery involving Jenna’s mother’s new boyfriend introduces a touch of intrigue, while smaller subplots keep the narrative engaging without overshadowing the central love story. Overall, the novel delivers a cozy, uplifting reading experience perfect for fans of sweet, friends-to-lovers romance.

Friends to Lovers

Slow-Burn Romance

Lifelong Best Friends

Small-Town Cozy Romance

My Rating

Link To Purchase

Amazon

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Review Card & Book Review- Summer Ever After By Mandy Baggot

Forty-year-old Faye Lawson is falling back in love with life at last. Finally divorced from her cheating husband, she has turned her back on the UK and has been living the Greek dream in Corfu managing a beautiful traditional boutique hotel.

For Kostas Petsas, twenty-something ex-professional basketball player, life as he has always known it is over. Having to take early-retirement because of injury, he’s at a loss as to what to do next. But when a piece of land in Corfu comes on the market, it seems this might be the perfect fit. There’s just a couple of things in the way… an area of natural beauty and… a little hotel on the beach.

Kostas has never met any woman like Faye before – she doesn’t behave around him how women usually do, and, when conflict starts to surface, it seems they can’t see eye-to-eye on anything. Or perhaps, when things get body-to-body, both of them begin to wonder if it can turn into heart-to-heart.

About The Author

My Review

This Book is about second chances, sunshine, and daring to follow your heart.

Faye Lawson has always treasured the memories of family holidays on Corfu, the idyllic Greek island whose beaches and lush scenery have long felt like home. After a long-overdue divorce, she bravely takes control of her future by accepting a hotel manager position on the island she loves. Though leaving her nineteen-year-old daughter behind is bittersweet, Faye throws herself into her new life, thriving in her job and embracing the joy of making guests happy.

Romance is the last thing on her mind—until VIP guest Kostas Petsas, a charming former professional basketball player returning home to rethink his own future, sweeps into her world. Their chemistry is immediate, playful, and impossible to ignore. As Kostas becomes captivated by Faye’s intelligence, wit, and grace, she finds herself questioning expectations, age gaps, and what others might think.

.The story blends escapist summer vibes with heartfelt self-discovery and a swoony, flirtatious romance. Predictable moments are balanced by warmth, humor, and charm, making this an uplifting read about embracing independence, confidence, and the thrill of unexpected love.

Second Chance at Love

Fresh Start in a New Place

Age Gap Romance

Holiday Romance

My Rating

Link To Purchase

Amazon

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Kobo

Review Card & Book Review- Daydreaming At The Boathouse Cafe By Alison Sherlock

Can following your dreams lead to happy-ever-after?

After leaving an unhappy relationship, Hannah Jackson has no confidence in herself or love. The only thing she secretly dreams of is her own bakery. But when her brother Ben, the owner of their family run hotel Maple Tree Lodge, asks her to open a cafe in the renovated boathouse on Dragonfly Lake, Hannah is consumed with self-doubt.

Due to an injury, Ben’s best friend and champion triathlete Alex Grant finds himself suddenly at a crossroads in his life and accepts Ben’s offer to recuperate at Maple Tree Lodge. Nursing a secret, longtime crush for Hannah, Alex is hoping that he can find a new future for himself and that it might somehow include Hannah.

Can Hannah overcome her lack of confidence and make the boathouse cafe a success? And can Alex find himself a new path and finally admit to Hannah how he really feels?

Over a magical summer by the lake, and with the help of a stray puppy, Hannah and Alex discover if all of their dreams really can come true.

About The Author

My Review

This book is a cozy story of second chances, self-belief, and gentle romance set in a warm lakeside community.

Hannah returns to her family’s hotel after a difficult breakup leaves her confidence shaken and her future uncertain. When she’s offered the chance to run a café in a newly renovated boathouse, the opportunity awakens her long-held dream of owning a bakery—alongside plenty of self-doubt about whether she can truly succeed.

At the same time, Alex, her brother’s best friend and a medal-winning triathlete, arrives to recover from an injury. Forced to slow down, he begins rethinking his life and finally confronts the feelings he’s quietly held for Hannah for years. As friendship gently shifts into romance, both characters begin to rediscover what they really want.

The novel stands out for its comforting tone, supportive family dynamics, and easy, feel-good pacing. While it may not leave a strong lasting impression, it offers a sweet, relaxing escape filled with growth, warmth, and soft friends-to-lovers charm.

Friends to Lovers

Small-Town/Lakeside Romance

Second Chances

Healing & Self-Discovery

My Review

Link To Purchase

Amazon

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Kobo

Review Card & Book Review- Where It All Began By Debbie Howells

‘I want to tell you a story, my beautiful child, of every magical thing I wish for you. This is where it all begins…’

It all begins when Edie’s daughter Lexie was born. A day when hope gleams like sunlight on mirror-flat water. Lexie’s arrival makes Edie feel like her life is complete, and her love for her newborn daughter is immediate, like a force of nature.

Even though Edie’s marriage to Ryan isn’t perfect, Edie knows she can hold their family together, for Lexie and her brother.

However, life – in all its beautiful, messy glory – doesn’t always follow the script. And by the time Lexie is a teenager, everything’s changed, and she’s moving as far away from her family as she possibly can.

But now Edie needs her back home, where it all began. Because – as everything in Edie’s life changes – she realises her daughter Lexie might be the only person who can save her…

About The Author

My Review

This book is about a mother writing to her estranged daughter in the hope that revisiting the past might heal the distance between them. In Where It All Began, Debbie Howells explores memory, grief, and the fragile bonds that shape a family. As Edie writes to Lexie, she retraces her daughter’s childhood—both the joyful moments that once held them together and the person whose presence ultimately drove them apart. She believes that understanding what went wrong may be the key to bringing Lexie home again, but the deeper she digs into the past, the more unsettling the truth becomes.

Told largely through Edie’s memories, the novel unfolds as an emotional and introspective journey. Howells captures the aching complexity of love, loss, and regret with sensitivity, creating a story that feels intimate and deeply reflective. The pacing is gentle and occasionally repetitive, but this slow approach allows the emotional weight of the narrative to settle. The novel’s powerful exploration of family, grief, and forgiveness lingers long after the final page.

Estranged Mother & Daughter

Past Secrets Revealed

Family Drama

Healing & Second Chances

My Rating

Link To Purchase

Amazon

Barnes & Noble

Kobo

Review Card & Book Review- Who Can You Trust By Susan Lewis

Twenty years ago, Nicole’s twins disappeared without a trace.

No bodies. No witnesses.

Despite her pleas of innocence, Nicole was convicted.

Now she’s out. And she’s finally confessed.

But for true crime podcast host Cristy Ward, the story doesn’t add up.

Having worked on the case as a young reporter, Cristy can’t help but wonder whether Nicole is the villain everyone believes her to be.

Why did Nicole confess after so many years … and is the truth still out there, waiting…?

About The Author

My Review

This book is about a woman named Nicole who has spent twenty years in prison for the alleged murder of her twin babies. In Who Can You Trust?, Susan Lewis revisits the case as Nicole finally admits guilt—seemingly so she can be released on licence—yet her confession raises more doubts than closure. At the time of the original investigation, the looming shadow of the London terrorist attacks shifted public focus, leaving troubling gaps in the case.

Cristy Ward, then a young reporter and new mother covering the tragedy, feels compelled to re-examine the story through the lens of her true-crime podcast. Determined to uncover what really happened, she digs into the past while balancing her personal life, including her long-distance relationship with David in Guernsey and preparations for a milestone birthday celebration.

As the investigation unfolds, secrets surface through the expected twists and turns until the truth finally emerges. A brief appearance from Andee Lawrence adds a welcome connection to Lewis’s wider world, leaving readers eager for the next instalment in this gripping, character-driven series.

My Rating