Category Archives: Book Review

Review Card & Book Review – Snowed In By Catherine Walsh

Megan is dreading going home for the holidays. She’s the village pariah, the she-devil who left local golden boy Isaac at the altar four years ago and ran away to the big city. She could really do without the drama. Particularly as he’s engaged again, and she’s just been dumped for the fourth time this year.

Christian’s fed up of being on his own every Christmas. He doesn’t mind being alone, but he hates his family’s sad eyes and soft tones as they sit around coupled up. Because he’s actually, totally, fine.

So when Megan literally bumps into Christian in a Dublin pub, they come up with a pact to see them through the holiday season. They’re going to be the very best fake dates for each other, ever.

Rules are drawn up, a contract is signed on a wine-stained napkin. They will sit through each other’s family gatherings and be outrageously in love until freed from their annual obligations. After all, it’s only for a few weeks.

But with everyone home for the holidays, two big families to deal with alongside old friends, old flames and old feelings, things are bound to get messy. And when a snowed-in cabin and a little Christmas magic are added to the mix, anything could happen…

About The Author

My Review

Megan fled her own wedding five years ago, leaving her small village for Dublin. Christian, an old schoolmate who witnessed her departure, encounters her again by chance in a Dublin pub. Both facing awkward homecoming visits, they agree to fake date during their two-week stay, leading to a rollercoaster of emotions and entertaining events. Set in the world of “Holiday Romance,” readers catch up with familiar characters while Christian and Megan take center stage. Their flirty banter and chemistry shine, with Christian portrayed as a thoughtful and supportive partner. The story is filled with laugh-out-loud moments, touching family interactions, and a refreshing absence of a third act breakup. Fans of the series will eagerly anticipate future installments featuring other beloved characters.

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Review Card & Book Review – Above ‘N’ Beyond By Tee O’Fallon

Getting locked up had been easy. But for K-9 Sergeant Jamie Pataglio, going undercover at a maximum-security prison—and infiltrating the Mancusco crime family—was the hard part. Now, six months later, Jamie’s been accepted as one of the mob’s own, and he’s walking out of the gates as a free man…and stepping into the criminal underworld. There’s only one small, gorgeous problem: Bella Bianco.

The Italian bistro used to be Bella’s pride and joy. Now it’s become a nightmare, where her violent family uses her restaurant as its criminal home base. Guilty by association. She needs to find a way out, and fast. The last thing Bella needs is an attraction to their newest “associate”—even if every moment alone with him leaves her breathless. It’s almost enough to make her reconsider her “no mobsters” policy…

They can’t trust each other. But if either of them ever wants to break free of their circumstances, they don’t have a choice. They’ll have to take down her family. And if anyone finds out they’re working together…they’re both dead.

About The Author

My Review

Family love is at the story’s core, with Jamie willing to help his strained relationship with his father and Bella navigating her complex dynamic with her aunt and cousin. While the romance’s initial setup may seem rushed, Jamie and Bella’s relationship evolves authentically as they support and connect with each other. Jamie’s undercover mission with the mob adds tension and intrigue, leading to gripping moments despite the limited action. Overall, the story is engaging and suspenseful, with nuanced character dynamics and a satisfying resolution. Overall, it is a compelling romantic suspense with well-developed characters and a thoughtfully crafted plot.

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Review Card & Book Review – Renewed By Nikki Kiley

Jenni Russo: Single mom, home-staging extraordinaire, and for one whirlwind night, “Samantha.” Marcos Chance wasn’t just another handsome face in the crowd, he had the swagger that had me forgetting my own name, literally. So, I might’ve fibbed a bit, and called myself “Samantha” for the night. No harm, right?

Wrong.

Because Mr. Smoldering Eyes isn’t just visiting. He’s the owner of the construction company I’ve been vying to work with. Plus, he remembers everything about our night, except my real name. And the chemistry? Let’s just say my walls aren’t the only thing getting a fresh coat of passion.

But in a town where everyone knows everyone’s business, our tangled passions and those little white lies are catching up to us. As the lines between professional and personal blur, I’m faced with a heart-wrenching dilemma: come clean and risk my dream job and possibly his trust, or keep quiet and risk losing a shot at love.

About The Author

My Review

This book follows Jenni, a single mother focused on building her business while raising her daughter, Amelia. At a real estate convention, she meets Marcos and, under a false name, indulges in a passionate encounter with him, expecting never to see him again. However, fate has other plans as they meet again, their chemistry still intense. Both carrying baggage and trust issues, they navigate their careers and personal lives, finding solace and support in each other. Marcos’s caring demeanor towards Jenni’s daughter melts her heart, showcasing his compassionate nature. This book is filled with laughter, strong characters, intense chemistry, and heartwarming moments, making it a compelling read that evokes a range of emotions.

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Review Card & Book Review – All Wrapped Up By Kimberly Kincaid

Ingredients:

One former firefighter who’s hiding out, managing a small-town bar so he can forget his haunted past

One headstrong reporter—a.k.a. the woman who got away—assigned to break the story when he runs into a burning building to save a little boy

Seven years since they’ve seen each other after their scorching summer fling

Stir in old hurts, brand-new chemistry that burns hotter than ever, and his sister’s Christmas wedding, where his past becomes the story of the century

About The Author

My Review

“All Wrapped Up” delivers a captivating second chance at love romance, blending reluctant heroes, determined heroines, and a reunion after seven years filled with secrets and steamy scenes. Nick Brennan, settled in Pine Mountain as the manager of the Double Shot bar, becomes the town’s hero after rescuing a boy from a burning building, only to come face to face with his past when Ava Mancuso, a journalist seeking a story, appears at the scene. Their difficult reunion unfolds with layers of trust issues and regrets, showcasing complex characters with deep emotional baggage. Despite their challenges, Nick and Ava find solace and happiness in each other, working through their past mistakes and insecurities. As their romance blossoms amidst the holiday chaos of a small town, the author skillfully keeps the focus on their compelling love story, making “All Wrapped Up” a captivating and stunning read.

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Review Card & Book Review – Never Ever Getting Back Together By Phoebe MacLeod

Everyone remembers their first love. Jess Thomas definitely does. So, it’s more than a little awkward when Jess’s first love, Jamie Ferguson, turns out to be the best man at the wedding she’s catering for. And more than a little insulting when he doesn’t appear to remember her at all.

Since Jamie broke her heart (via text!), 10 years earlier, Jess has sworn off romance. And with a booming catering business to focus on, she’s doing OK. She has no interest in revisiting the past.

But when Jess’s car breaks down on a country lane, she has no choice but to accept Jamie’s help. Now, Jamie is determined to show Jess he’s a new man. But can guys like Jamie ever really change? And if she gives him another chance, is she setting herself up for a fall?

About The Author

My Review

The story begins with captivating banter and flirting, drawing the reader in with its entertaining narrative. Jess, the independent protagonist, encounters her first love, Jamie, at a wedding after 12 years of resentment. Despite their initial awkward encounter, Jess begins to see a different side of Jamie, leading to a reevaluation of their past misunderstandings. However, the story takes a downturn when Jess’s negative opinion of Jamie is reinforced by a misunderstanding, which feels like a forced addition to the plot. Despite the adorable presence of Jess’s child, Lizzie, her role in the story seems disconnected from the main narrative. Overall, while the initial charm of the story is engaging, the latter part is marred by contrived conflicts and character inconsistencies.

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Review Card & Book Review – Guarding Viktoria By Leslie North

When danger meets desire, all bets are off…

Viktoria Jonsdottir is smart, driven, and beautiful. But she’s also in danger. To protect her, her father has hired a bodyguard to look after her. But the last thing Viktoria wants is a babysitter, even if he is sexy as hell. Like it or not, though, she’s got Lee McCallister, former Army Ranger, keeping her safe. From what, she’s not really sure… Until the pilot hired on for her private plane attempts to kidnap her at gunpoint. Thank goodness Lee is there.

Lee cares only about one thing. Doing his job. And if that job includes keeping a rich brat safe, so be it. The former Army Ranger braces himself for days of enduring Viktoria. Demanding, lovely, kissable Viktoria. It isn’t long before he realizes she’s not the spoiled princess he thought she was. Despite his best efforts, he’s starting to fall for her.

And if they can survive this ordeal, maybe she’ll fall for him too…

About The Author

My Review

This book follows former Army Ranger sniper, Lee McCallister, who is medically retired due to an eye injury, and Viktoria Jonsdottir, the daughter of an Icelandic businessman aiming to prove herself in the business world. Lee is tasked with protecting Viktoria during her trip to New York, but their journey takes a dangerous turn when they face threats and attempts on Viktoria’s life. Despite initial impressions, Lee finds himself drawn to Viktoria, whose world is about to be shattered by betrayal. As they navigate danger and their growing attraction, Lee realizes Viktoria has changed his life’s direction. With action-packed scenes and intense chemistry, the story explores their struggle between duty and desire. The gripping narrative culminates in a satisfying epilogue, offering closure for the characters and their relationships.

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Review Card & Book Review – A Christmas Miracle in the Little Irish Village By Michelle Vernal

Ava Kelly loves returning to Emerald Bay for Christmas. Snowflakes fall on the green rolling hills and mulled wine fills The Shamrock Inn with the smell of winter spice. But this year, the Kelly family is hoping for a miracle…

When twenty-four-year-old Ava Kelly and her adventurous twin Grace return home to The Shamrock Inn, their Ma’s favourite baubles bring back so many memories of Christmases past. They have always done everything together, even leaving their little Irish village for the excitement of London. But with the locket her handsome ex Shane gave her hanging just above her heart, Ava has just one wish this festive season…

After a year stuck in a job she can’t stand and going on dreadful dates, Ava longs to be back with Shane. Curling up in front of the fire with him, the brooding fisherman everyone else sees melts away as his blue eyes meet hers. But planning a future with Shane would mean telling Grace she’ll be moving back to the village for good. Ava knows it will break her sister’s heart for them to be parted.

But, before Ava can build up the courage to talk to her twin, terrible tidings about Shane hit The Shamrock Inn like a winter storm. With everyone but Grace rushing to the harbour, will Ava’s hopes for a future with both Shane and her sister in it be dashed? Or could a Christmas miracle bring them all together?

About The Author

My Review

This book follows Ava Kelly’s annual return to Emerald Bay, where she hopes to reconcile with her ex, Shane, amidst the festive atmosphere. As Ava and her twin sister Grace navigate their holiday visit from bustling London, the story unfolds with themes of redemption and new beginnings. Vernal’s heartwarming narrative captures the essence of Irish Christmas traditions and offers a charming tale of reconciliation and second chances, making it a delightful read for those seeking holiday cheer.

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Review Card & Book Review – Take Me Home By Beth Moran

Sophie Potter’s job is helping people deal with the worst, because Sophie Potter knows what the worst feels like.

An expert at keeping moving, with her trusty motorhome and faithful dog Muffin, Sophie has built her life around keeping her loves and loyalties to a minimum.

Fabulous fifty-something Hattie Langford has kept her heart and past safely stored away too. But for reasons she’s only willing to share with a stranger, Hattie needs to tell the story her family has been hiding at Riverbend, their home in Sherwood Forest. There is a history of heartbreak and hurt that Hattie is now ready to face.

As Sophie helps Hattie uncover the secrets of generations of women who have lived at Riverbend, along with the stories of the men they have loved and lost, they start to see echoes in their own pasts. And as Riverbend shares its biggest secret of all, can Hattie and Sophie finally embrace the lives they’ve put on hold for so long, and risk giving their hearts to men who just might break the Riverbend curse?

About The Author

My Review

Sophie, having experienced profound grief, has built a business aiding others in the aftermath of bereavement. Her latest task, however, involves helping the alive yet secretive Hattie sort through memories in her attic. As their bond grows, Sophie considers her own fresh start, encouraged by Hattie’s supportive friends. The book expertly blends poignant narrative, laughter, and tears, delivering a fulfilling romance and compelling characters. Sophie’s journey, from grief to healing and romance, deeply resonates, while the portrayal of female friendships is both authentic and moving. With flawless emotional depth and superb storytelling, it is an enjoyable read to me

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