Book Review – Page 52

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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Review Card & Book Review- I Knew You Were Trouble By Emma Rae

He’s the world’s most famous frontman. She couldn’t care less.

Lexi is only thirty years old, but is already an Oscar-winning documentary director. So when she is asked to ditch her current project to film the reunion tour of boy band Rebel Heart, she is disappointed. She didn’t work this hard to follow a boy group on tour and document their every manufactured move for teenage fans.

But after meeting Aidan, the unofficial ‘head’ of the band, something new stirs inside her. She thinks he’s egotistical, entitled, and impulsive. Equally, Aidan thinks Lexi is high-strung, secretive, and emotionally devoid.

Tensions rise, and as Lexi blends work and pleasure, she can’t let go of her difficult past with the father that abandoned her. She doesn’t expect people to stay in her life for long. Especially the lead of a boy band. But is this project about to prove all of her expectations wrong…?

About The Author

My Review

In I Knew You Were Trouble, Lexi, a grounded and mature professional, takes on a documentary project following Aidan’s boy band. Unlike the typical fan-turned-love-interest trope, Lexi is focused on doing her job well, bringing empathy and depth to her work while navigating the chaotic world of fame. Aidan, a dedicated and loyal bandmate, shares a natural and growing chemistry with Lexi, resulting in a romance that feels genuine and heartfelt.

Beyond the love story, the book offers a captivating glimpse into the high-paced, emotional life of a boy band, exploring the challenges, joys, and camaraderie that come with fame. The supporting characters, including the band members and close friends, add warmth and charm, creating a family-like dynamic that enhances the story.

Charming yet grounded, mature yet lighthearted, the novel balances romance, character growth, and deeper themes, making it a refreshing and engaging read—even for those who don’t typically enjoy celebrity romances.

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Review Card & Book Review- The Mr. Right Checklist By Melissa Foster

Dog groomer and budding marriage-proposal planner Destiny Amor believes in true love and happily ever afters. Though it’s not in the stars for her yet—honestly, who can live up to the criteria on her Mr. Right Checklist?—she wants it for others. When Destiny’s first misguided attempt at romance concierge ends in disaster, she’s ready to call it quits, until the supposed groom-to-be steps in with a proposal of his own.

Ryan “Fletch” Fletcher, a divorced-and-never-going-there-again professor, needs to get his matchmaking family off his back, and the disorganized, too-in-love-with-love proposal planner is the perfect solution. He offers to help Destiny get her business on track, if she’ll play the part of his adoring girlfriend at his brother’s wedding.

A professional situationship with her grumpy dog-grooming client? Destiny adores his pup, and she could put up with him to get her business off the ground. With any luck, she might even get that chip about love off his shoulder.

About The Author

My Review

This book is a lighthearted romantic comedy centered on Lana, a quirky, fun-loving woman who’s the black sheep of her family. When her sister’s wedding in Australia approaches, Lana decides to bring a plus one to make a statement, especially after her family stages an intervention, urging her to behave. Enter Ethan, Lana’s charming and sweet ex-fling, who unexpectedly reappears after two years. Despite their undeniable chemistry, their history of causing chaos together makes their reunion risky. As the wedding draws closer, the pair navigate old sparks, new challenges, and plenty of comedic mishaps. This laugh-out-loud, feel-good story is perfect for readers seeking an easy, entertaining read filled with humor and heart.

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Review Card & Book Review- Marrying Th Mechanic By Shanna Hatfield

A heartwarming journey of love, growth, and the bonds that tie hearts together even when life leads down unexpected paths.

Mechanic Jace Easton grapples with the sudden changes happening around him. His younger sister, Tassie, has always relied on him, but now she’s off traipsing around the globe with the prince of her dreams. As Tassie prepares to step into her future, Jace is confronted with the harsh truth that she has matured, and so has her best friend, Deena. The deepening attraction he feels for Deena—a pull that becomes increasingly difficult to ignore—leaves him further unsettled and struggling to accept his new reality.

Deena Durant may earn her living welding farm equipment, but her true passion lies in crafting metal sculptures. Alongside her artistic dreams, she clings to the hope that Jace might eventually see her as more than his sister’s friend. Until then, she conceals her feelings and does her best to encourage him as everything familiar shifts into unchartered territory.

When Jace and Deena work together to help Tassie’s dreams come true, will they discover their own path to true love?

About The Author

My Review

Jace and his sister Tassie, who lost their parents young, moved to Summer Creek, Oregon, to live with their uncle. Now, with their uncle gone, it’s just the two of them. Tassie is in love with a prince and plans to move away, leaving Jace feeling the weight of change. Meanwhile, Deena, Tassie’s childhood friend, has secretly loved Jace for years. A welder by trade, Deena surprises Jace one day by appearing in something other than her usual work attire, and he finally sees her in a new light. As they grow closer, Jace, a mechanic, worries he’s holding her back from a bright future. This heartfelt story celebrates friendship, personal growth, and the strong foundation of love between two people discovering each other in a new way.

My Rating

Link To Purchase

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Review Card & Book Review – Christmas Cancellation By Evie James

Noelle Nichols must make it back to her small hometown for the most important deadline of her life. She’s jobless, newly single, and desperate to claim her inheritance before Christmas Eve—or risk losing everything.

When a snowstorm throws Noelle’s plans into the kind of madness only New York winters and canceled flights can bring, she lets loose on the wrong man: Captain Kol Vinter, the tough, ex-military airline pilot who’s suddenly in her way—and, annoyingly, the only person who can help her get home.

Stuck at LaGuardia, at the mercy of a snow apocalypse blowing in and airline chaos, Kol’s not exactly thrilled with Noelle’s fiery complaints about his airline, but something about her unguarded tears pulls him in.

When Kol catches Noelle wishing she’d never been born, he makes her an offer that could change both their lives: a one-way trip to Saratoga Springs, the quintessential Christmas town that’s lost all its magic for Noelle…until now. Kol stopped believing in holiday magic long ago. After offering this sassy spitfire a ride, all Kol can think about is how bad of an idea this is. What begins as a bumpy ride soon turns into something steamier than hot cocoa by the fire, with moments that ignite hotter than any flaming marshmallow. But Kol isn’t your typical holiday hero—he’s got scars of his own and walls he’s not keen to let down.

Noelle’s sassy exterior can only keep them both at arm’s length for so long, especially as she rediscovers the joy of the season in the town she used to call home. He may be a grumpy “guardian angel,” but what if he’s exactly who Noelle’s been waiting for? Will Kol’s protective heart and smoldering presence be enough to remind her that life—even when it’s messy and shadowed by loss—can still be wonderful? Filled with snowball fights, spicy encounters, and small-town holiday charm, Christmas Cancellation is a heartfelt retelling of a Christmas classic that will have you laughing, crying, and believing in love all over again.

About The Author

My Review

In Christmas Cancellation, Noelle’s life is in shambles—she’s lost her job, faced betrayal, and is now stuck in a snowstorm that could alter her future. Enter Captain Kol Vinter, a rugged, no-nonsense man with his own struggles. As they navigate forced proximity and romantic tension, their journey unfolds like a modern It’s a Wonderful Life, filled with self-discovery, healing, and unexpected love. The story combines Christmas warmth with real emotional depth, witty dialogue, and a hint of spice. Ultimately, it’s a heartwarming reminder that even amidst life’s chaos, something wonderful can emerge.

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Review Card & Book Review – Playing To Win By Sasha Lace

She only wants a winter fling with no promises. But rules are there to be broken.

Madison

After being jilted in Kentucky, playing for Calverdale Ladies in England was a chance to escape and spend Christmas alone, avoiding my feelings.

Which is how I’ve ended up snowed in at a Welsh pub with a retired rugby player who’s hot enough to thaw me out.

But when the snow’s gone, so am I. I won’t let another man in, not even one as gorgeous as Geraint…

Geraint

Running the pub, I’ve had flings with guests, but never one as sexy as Madison.

Too bad she’s so closed off. For both our sakes, we’ve agreed to keep our relationship physical. No attachments. No regrets.

Which is good, because I promised my dad I’d hold on to the Dragon Inn, no matter what. So I’m fine with no commitments, because I can’t ask a woman with a brilliant career in London to give everything up to be with me, in the middle of nowhere. Can I?

About The Author

My Review

In this heartwarming Christmas romance, Geraint, a former rugby player, struggles to keep his late father’s pub in Wales afloat. He feels a sense of duty to honor his father’s memory despite the pub’s lack of success. Madison, another American soccer player, is also dealing with heartbreak after being left at the altar. She joins a UK team but struggles to fit in. Seeking a Christmas escape, she travels to Wales, hoping to find solace where her parents married. There, she meets Geraint, whose past injuries ended both his career and marriage. A snowstorm brings them together, leading to a memorable holiday connection.

The story weaves themes of healing, connection, and found family, with a cozy holiday backdrop. Geraint and Madison’s unexpected romance blossoms, and Madison’s journey brings a sense of closure to the series, ending with the characters celebrating Christmas in Wales.

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Review Card & Book Review – Playing For Keeps By Sasha Lace

She’s breaking all his rules.

Lana

The press say I’m the wild child of women’s football, and now a tabloid journalist’s blackmailing me. No wonder I needed distraction in the shape of Alex, the men’s team’s new Scottish goalie.

It was a one-night stand: fun and done. I don’t do commitment – and he’s old enough to be my dad. But there’s something different about Alex…

Alex

Lana is like a tornado. Fierce. Devastating. Just passing through. My son, Brodie, is my world, and he needs someone who’s sticking around.

But Lana’s made me feel alive again for the first time in years, and I can’t get her out of my head. Is a future with this party girl too much to hope for…?

About The Author

My Review

Lana, a dedicated player on Calverdale’s women’s football team, is thrown into turmoil when a bad encounter with the press leads to blackmail. Faced with a choice between exposing secrets about her male counterparts or risking her family’s privacy, she is cornered into a tough position. Meanwhile, Alex, a recent transfer to Calverdale’s men’s team, crosses paths with Lana unexpectedly. After a passionate night, he’s surprised to find himself drawn to her, despite the grief of losing his wife and his protective instincts for his son. Lana, on the other hand, is focused on her dream of making England’s women’s squad and shielding her family from scandal, with no room for romantic entanglements. But the connection between her and Alex, a charming Scottish goalkeeper, proves harder to resist than she anticipated.

Although Lana is portrayed with a compelling blend of strength, vulnerability, and inner conflict, the story itself feels lacking in depth. The relationship’s development is rushed, with Lana going from emotionally guarded to fully integrated into Alex’s life rather quickly, which feels forced rather than natural. Alex is an endearing character, though some of his actions seem inconsistent with his age and life experiences. However, his dedication to his son and his supportive view of Lana’s career and character provide some of the story’s most touching moments.

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Review Card & Book Review – Playing To Score By Sasha Lace

He’s wanted her for years…but they’re professionals now. Who will cross the line first?

Skylar

I’ve fought my way to the captaincy of Calderdale Ladies, and it means everything to me. So when my toxic boyfriend breaks my heart, I bottle it up. The team comes first.

Dr Reece Forster is supposed to be getting the team in the right head space for victory, not counselling me through heartache, but I can’t help opening up to him.

The hot doc is off limits, but the chemistry between us is off the charts…

Reece

I’ve longed for Skylar Marshall since we were in school, when she was prom queen and I was eating lunch with the librarian. She never even knew I existed.

And now? I’m good at my job because I’m in control. The professional boundaries are there for a reason.

But when Skylar confides in me, it’s all I can do not to abandon my principles completely. If I tell her how I feel, I could lose everything. But, how can something that feels this right be wrong…?

About The Author

My Review

This romance novel follows Reece, a deeply nurturing and selfless character, and Skylar, a strong but vulnerable woman who learns to accept love and herself. Reece’s unwavering support for Skylar, alongside her journey toward self-acceptance after heartbreak, creates a heartfelt dynamic. Set against the backdrop of elite women’s football, the story provides an engaging glimpse into this world. Sasha’s passionate, intense writing explores relationship imperfections and draws readers in with its addictive style. Ideal for fans of spicy romance with endearing, complex characters, this book delivers an emotional journey that’s hard to put down.

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Review Card & Book Review – Don’t You Want Me Baby? By Rachel Dove

Amber Fitzpatrick is about to hit thirty and has achieved none of the things she hoped to have done by now. Her dreams of owning her own business seem out of reach. Her boyfriend has just dumped her and now her biological clock is clanging in her head.

But maybe Amber doesn’t need a man for the next stage of her life? Maybe as an independent woman she can have a baby all by herself?

There’s only one problem. Handsome but excruciatingly annoying best friend Tyler Williams. Tyler thinks Amber’s motherhood plans are plain crazy! She just needs to wait for Mr. Right to come along…and maybe he’s closer than she thinks?

But with Amber hellbent on doing it alone, Tyler sets out to prove to her that being her best friend could also come with excellent benefits…if only she’s brave enough to take the chance.

About The Author

My Review

Amber, a restaurant manager, is left heartbroken and with her future plans in ruins when her engagement falls apart, her biological clock ticking louder than ever. Tyler, the chef she manages, has loved her quietly for years, and now he finally has his chance to pursue her. While there are obstacles to their romance—many in Amber’s own mind—Tyler is a supportive, attentive presence, unlike her ex. As much as she overlooked him at first, Amber begins to appreciate Tyler’s gentle care and attentiveness.

After enough time for Amber to heal, they find their happily-ever-after. Both characters are in their 30s, navigating careers and relationships, which adds maturity to their story. Set against a lively UK pub scene with colorful side characters, the book primarily focuses on Amber’s personal growth, offering a refreshing take on romance from author Rachel.

I particularly enjoyed the first half, where Amber takes charge of her life, making it empowering to watch her reclaim her goals instead of starting from heartbreak. Tyler is also endearing, his hidden crush adding charm. However, the second half felt less satisfying; their relationship leaned more toward teenage drama, with Amber repeatedly pushing Tyler away, which seemed out of character. Her desire for a baby was also frequently mentioned but not fully developed in the storyline. Overall, it’s a refreshing short romance with an enjoyable start!

My Rating