Review card – Page 52

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.

My Rating

Link To Purchase

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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.

My Rating

Link To Purchase

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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.

My Rating

Link To Purchase

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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.

My Rating

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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

Link To Purchase

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Review Card & Book Review – Playing The Game By Sasha Lace

She dominates on the pitch. But he’s the boss in the bedroom.

Miri

I’ve always dreamed of playing professional football, so when the new director of Calverdale Ladies wants to sign me, I should be ecstatic. But renowned billionaire playboy Gabe Rivers doesn’t just want me as his new striker…

I need to get to the top because of my talent on the pitch, not in the sack. So I can’t be another prize for Gabe. Even if he is infuriatingly gorgeous.

Gabe

Do I care that the press have decided I’m a heartless womanizer? Not one bit. I’ve never given up anything I want, and that includes Miri Forster.

She’s the most talented player I’ve ever seen, and sexy as hell. I know I can get her out of my system—I just need one night. And I don’t care what it costs me…

About The Author

My Review

This fast-paced, engaging romance kicks off a series with Gabe, a wealthy, famous man haunted by his past, and Miri, struggling with heartbreak, family health issues, and debt. When Miri, in disguise, crosses paths with Gabe, tensions rise as he also tries to recruit her to his new soccer team. Their romance quickly escalates, perhaps too swiftly, but leaves readers eager for book #2 and the introduction of Reece.

My Rating

Link To Purchase

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Review Card & Book Review – Second Chances At Samphire Bay By Sasha Morgan

Can she learn to love again in a new home?

Young widow Jasmine has sold her Manchester narrowboat to move to the picturesque village of Samphire Bay. She needs a fresh start, away from the memories of the unsolved hit-and-run which killed her husband.

New neighbour Robin isn’t pleased by her presence – he desperately wanted to buy her cottage. But he hasn’t given up hope yet, befriending Jasmine with an agenda to persuade her to sell…

As Jasmine renovates the cottage, she and Robin grow closer, until Robin finds his motives confused. Does he still want her to sell up, or are his feelings becoming real?

Through it all, Jasmine continues processing her grief. And she is succeeding – until a shocking revelation that the mystery behind her husband’s death has followed her to Samphire Bay…

About The Author

My Review

Second Chances at Samphire Bay follows Jasmine, a young widow moving to Samphire Bay to escape the pain of her husband’s unresolved death. Seeking a fresh start, she meets Robin, a neighbor intent on buying her cottage. His initial motives shift as he grows closer to Jasmine, sparking unexpected emotions.

Jasmine’s healing journey intertwines with a renewed investigation into her husband’s accident, and the story explores new love for both her and an older couple. With charming characters, gentle romance, and themes of friendship and resilience, this heartfelt story promises an uplifting, emotional read.

My Rating

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Review Card & Book Review- Someone Like You By Sandy Barker

What do you do when you realise you’ve fallen for your best friend, but he sees you as the sister he never had? And to make things worse, you’re stuck in the middle of a matchmaking scheme to find him someone else!

Best friends Gaby and Raff are inseparable and know each other inside out. But with Raff’s string of disastrous relationships and his newfound fame as Britain’s Best Baker, it’s time to enlist the Ever After Agency to help him find true love.

At first, Gaby is all in – Raff is a catch, after all. But as she secretly helps to find his perfect match, she’s hit with unexpected pangs of jealousy. And before she can act on her feelings, Raff falls for one of his dates.

Can Gaby keep her emotions in check, or will she risk ruining their friendship to find out if Raff feels the same way?

About The Author

My Review

I picked up this book because the premise intrigued me, and midway through, I realized the characters felt familiar—I had read the first book in the series, Match Me If You Can! I didn’t realize it was part of the Ever After series since it wasn’t labeled as such. That said, it works well as a standalone, but it’s also fun to recognize characters from earlier books.

The story centers on Raff, who wins Britain’s top baking competition only to be dumped the same day he planned to propose. Known for diving headfirst into love, he finds himself lost, and his best friends, Gaby and Freya, decide to help by setting him up. But Gaby soon realizes that maybe she is the right one for Raff. This friends-to-lovers romance is filled with themes of found family, self-discovery, and love.

The book made me laugh out loud several times, and the bond between Raff, Gaby, and Freya felt so genuine. I loved how it explored different kinds of love, from romantic to familial, as well as the fears and insecurities that come with pursuing new dreams and seeking acceptance. Ultimately, it’s a heartfelt story about finding love and acceptance from those who see us as we truly are—a journey that feels both relatable and inspiring.

My Rating

Link To Purchase

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Review Card & Book Review- The Forgotten One By Catherine Bybee

Sarah McNeilly is a rare find in the tabloid industry. She won’t ignite gossip. She finds the truth. And for once, that’s what her boss wants. With her job on the line, Sarah’s latest assignment is to identify the elusive “Maximillian Smith,” unearth his connection to the billionaire Stone family, and dig up some dirt.

Yesterday Max was an ordinary workingman, concerned with little more than the price of gas. Now he suddenly has a family, jaw-dropping wealth, and an avid (if clumsy) reporter on his trail. With the press threatening to destroy his new life, he needs to release his real story strategically, and Sarah is the key—not to mention an adorable yet invaluable resource for finding his mother.

As Max and Sarah team up to peel back the ugly layers of Max’s past, they stumble heart-first into their fiery attraction. But when their research threatens their newly built trust, it’s their future that is on the line.

About The Author

My Review

The Forgotten One by Catherine Bybee is an emotional romance centered on Maximilian “Max” Smith, a rugged, self-made man from a foster background who discovers he’s the heir to a billionaire business empire. Max’s strong, alpha personality and rough edges make him a memorable and complex character, while his protective and occasionally vulnerable sides add depth to his appeal. Sarah, a journalist with a warm, sassy personality, enters his life by chance and quickly becomes his steady support amid media chaos and corporate intrigue.

When Max’s half-siblings reveal his true parentage, he struggles to reconcile his past as a foster child with his newfound identity as a wealthy heir. Though initially skeptical, Max leans on Sarah, who is both his confidante and emotional anchor as he navigates the pressures of wealth and family. Their chemistry is electric, and Sarah’s kindness and moral integrity balance Max’s intense nature, creating a touching connection. Through love, trust, and resilience, Max and his new family find healing together in this heartfelt and beautifully written romance.

My Rating

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Review Card & Book Review – Rolling Toward Clear Skies By Catherine Ryan Hyde

Maggie Blount, divorced mother of two and California physician, puts her private practice on hold when disaster strikes. Doctors on Wheels takes her and Alex—Maggie’s professional and romantic partner—wherever they’re needed. After rolling into rural Louisiana in the wake of a category five hurricane, Maggie immediately bonds with two sisters and their puppy, all orphaned by the storm. It’s enough to break Maggie’s heart, and she’s not leaving them behind.

Feeling blessed and looking forward to their new foster home in affluent Vista del Mar—a world apart from the one they’ve known—Jean and Rose are polite, appreciative, and humble. Frankly, they’re the polar opposite of Maggie’s own self-involved teenage daughters, Willa and Gemma, who resist this intrusion by strangers into their privileged lives. Soon enough, Maggie’s new blended family is in chaos.

Teaching Willa and Gemma about gratitude and empathy will be hard enough. Maggie must also admit her own role in their entitled upbringing, undo the damage, and anticipate the needs of all four girls and a puppy, all amid faraway natural disasters and those closer to home.

About The Author

My Review

Rolling Toward Clear Skies by Catherine Ryan Hyde follows the story of two pairs of teenage girls from starkly different backgrounds who become part of the same family. Maggie and Alex, who run a mobile medical service called Doctors on Wheels, discover two neglected teenage girls and a puppy while providing aid after a hurricane in Louisiana. Maggie decides to foster and eventually adopt them, despite knowing that her two daughters from a previous marriage may not be welcoming. Maggie hopes this challenging situation will help all four girls grow, learn from each other, and become better people.

This novel is a story of resilience, compassion, and family, with Hyde’s signature approach of finding the best in people and inspiring hope, even if the journey isn’t perfectly smooth.

My Rating