Forgettable in Every Way by Jennifer Peel

 

All it takes is one person to remember you.

A word of never fall in love with an Englishman in New York. If you do, chances are that he’ll captivate your soul and never let you go. Take me, for instance. For the last thirteen years, I’ve heard “So This Is Love” on repeat every time I think of Simon Harrison. If this is love, it kind of sucks. Especially given that Simon only ever saw me as his friend before proceeding to marry my supposed best friend. The worst part is that I thought for once in my life someone saw me. That he saw me. But I was wrong. So wrong.

Or was I?

Thirteen years ago, I made a colossal mistake without even knowing it when I let Jules Carmichael disappear from my life. I had no idea the woman I always thought of as my best mate could have been so much more if I’d only opened my eyes to see what was right in front of me. But now that I find myself divorced and face-to-face with the lovely creature again, she wants nothing to do with me, and it’s driving me mad. If she could only see that I’m not the daft younger man who let her slip away, I have a feeling we could have something unforgettable.

 * Amazon * Goodreads *

Oh Jules.  I see you.  I think you are smart, strong and all things amazing.  I absolutely love you.

Friends, I am so caught up in all the feelings right now.  This story will bring them ALL out of you.  We first meet Jules in My Ex-Mas Emergency as she and Callista become friends.  It was there that I decided that I wanted in that friend group too.  Yes, I want to be friends with fictional characters.  When you read about these two, you will see why.  They trust each other, they defend each other and they cheer each other on.  It's the best kind of friendship.

Jules has my heart.  I think it's because at times all of us feel unseen.  I know I have.  Maybe not to the degree Jules feels it but it's that human connection that this author is so good at.  It draws me into the story and makes me care.  I love when my emotions become invested.  It's the best feeling as a reader.

Okay, so here's a run down of some of the things I loved:

• the cover 😍, the font and the colors
• Jules secret job and the reveal
• Jules learning to stand up for herself.  Her character arch is amazing.
• bee sting scene!  😂
• The Cinderella song references (and dang you, Cinderella. . .)
• Callista's truth bomb.
• "I'm going to chase you"
• Jack.  So intuitive.  So sweet.
• Simon owning that he was daft.  Repeatedly.  Jules needed that.

I want to re-read this book right now.  hahaha  Writing about it makes me want to wrap up in all those emotions again.  I also want to listen to this audio book in dual narration with the British accent for Simon!!  

I have BIG LOVE for this book.  Do I really need to say more?  BIG LOVE, people.  Big love.

Release date is January 4th!  Go pre-order now!

Content:  kissing.  Mild swears.

- I received a complimentary copy of this book.  All opinions expressed are my own.

My eX-MAS Emergency by Jennifer Peel

 

Very few in Aspen Lake expected that I, Calista Monroe, their most notorious wild child, would ever amount to anything besides being a model prisoner. So imagine their surprise when I returned as the hospital’s newest ER doctor. Believe me, no one is more surprised than I am. I had vowed to never return, even if it was the last safe haven during the zombie apocalypse. But when my niece, Quinn, begged me to come home, I couldn’t say no. My plan is to stay out of trouble this time, and above all, avoid Quinn’s uncle Tristan—the man I love to hate and the reason I left Aspen Lake.

But trouble starts to brew when my niece gets it into her pretty head that her uncle and I need to reconcile. The devious little thing insists we deck the halls together all season long. And since I’ll do anything to make Quinn happy, I agree, believing I’m completely immune to Tristan’s charm. Except the joke’s on me. Who knew that Tristan’s biggest regret was letting me go? And the infuriating man seems willing to do everything possible to win me back. Well, it’s going to take a Christmas miracle for me to give him a second chance. Unfortunately for my plan, our chemistry could set a blizzard on fire. Now I have a major ex emergency on my hands.

Do I give my niece her Christmas wish, or do I let the love between Tristan and me flatline once and for all?

  * Amazon * Goodreads *

To say that I love this book might just be the biggest understatement of the year.  It really hit my sweet spot and filled me up with all the things I love in a book.  Second chance romance is one of my favorite kind of books.  There is always a bit of angst because, well, they did break up but with that is also a knowledge of the sparks and attraction and love.  It's just all so yummy. You will want to block a whole day out to read. It is SO, SO good. It's everything I love about reading rom-com books. You have a second chance romance, enemies to lovers, evil parents, an adorable niece, hot kisses and plenty of yummy romantic tension.

Tristan comes into this story with a mountain to climb in regards to Calista. I mean, he deserves to climb that mountain and Calista definitely doesn't make it easy for him. Did I love Tristan? Yes, I did. He worked so hard at redeeming himself. I loved seeing and feeling his adoration for Calista. And Calista? She is just plain awesome. I want her to be my best friend.  Just wait. You'll see. 

This book is filled with magic. It's swirling on every page and I am basking in the afterglow. If ever there was a book to curl up with, it's this one!! Love, love, love, love. 

This book is on KU if you have that.

Content: kissing

 - I received a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions expressed are my own.

That Time I Kissed The Groomsman Grump by Julie Christianson

 

BRADY

Yeah, I shouldn’t have kissed Natalie Slater.

Not on the porch. Or at the beach. Or in the storage closet. Especially not the storage closet. But to be fair, she kissed me first. Six months later, I’m still thinking about it.

Trouble is, I’ve made promises that tie me to our small town, while Natalie can’t wait to escape. I’ve got no business pursuing her or my secret ambitions. My future’s set, and good people here are depending on me. Too bad my gut’s not listening to reason, and I'm being pulled toward different dreams: the career I’ve always wanted, and the woman whose smile I can’t forget…

NATALIE

Brady Graham and I used to be friends. For a while there, I was even the teensiest bit attracted to him. But Brady’s sister is marrying my brother, and my brother is Brady’s best friend. How awkward would family dinners be if things went south? We need to let our mutual attraction fizzle out.

Except…nothing seems to be fizzling. With all the time we’re spending together as Maid of Honor and Best Man, our attraction’s just burning hotter. Then the guy decides to show me his secret soft side. Hot and vulnerable? So. Not. Fair.

Because the only heat I need in my life is the sunshine in Los Angeles. I’ve made commitments on the west coast, and I can’t risk being sidetracked by Broody Brady.

I just need to put three thousand miles between me and his so-not-fairness…

 * Amazon * Goodreads *

If you are looking for a light hearted, fun diversion, look no further.  This book was all those things and more.  There was great, snappy romantic tension and attraction that I could feel, pulling me in.  The family and side characters brought lots of comedic moments, bouts of jealousy and ultimately support for Brady and Natalie.

I loved Brady and Natalie.  We are first introduced to them in a previous book so it was fun to get their love story here.  They are both kind and hard working.  They are supportive and good to their friends.  They felt like people I would want as friends.

Some other things I loved:

* save the doggies!

* closet writer

* hole in the ceiling/floor 

* kissing

I have read many books by this author but I don't think I've ever reviewed one on my blog.  That's because I've been enjoying her books on my own without being asked for an official review.  I'm excited to introduce her here now, to my blog friends.  She's a great author that you should check out if you haven't already!

Content:  mild peril, kissing

- I received a complimentary copy of this book.  All opinions expressed are my own.

The Words We Lost (Fog Harbor #1) by Nicole Deese

 Three friends. Two broken promises. One missing manuscript.

As a senior acquisitions editor for Fog Harbor Books in San Francisco, Ingrid Erikson has rejected many a manuscript for lack of defined conflict and dramatic irony--two elements her current life possesses in spades. In the months following the death of her childhood best friend and international bestselling author Cecelia Campbell, Ingrid has not only lost her ability to escape into fiction due to a rare trauma response, but she's also desperate to find the closure she's convinced will come with Cecelia's missing final manuscript.

After Ingrid jeopardizes her career, she fears her future will remain irrevocably broken. But then Joel Campbell--the man who shattered her belief in happily-ever-afters--offers her a sealed envelope from his late cousin, Cecelia, asking Joel and to put their differences aside and retrieve a mysterious package in their coastal Washington hometown.

Honoring Cecelia's last request will challenge their convictions and test their loyalties, but through it all, will Ingrid and Joel be brave enough to uncover a twice-in-a-lifetime love?

 * Amazon * Goodreads *

Confession.  I didn't ever read the blurb for this book.  It's a thing for me with authors that I know I love.  I trust them to write fantastic stories and I want to be completely surprised going in so yeah, no reading the blurbs for me.  This book was the best surprise for me.  I'm so glad I didn't know anything about it going in.

There is a dual timeline happening in this book as Joel and Ingrid read a memoir of sorts that takes them back in time to memories of their youth.  I really loved this because I had the chance to connect the people before and the people now.  The shift in time was seamless.

Emotions of all kinds were swirling in this book.  Sorrow and loss, pain and regret.  Love and laughter, healing and peace.  And plenty of misunderstanding.  It was quite the journey.

I loved the setting and the characters.  Second chance love stories are so satisfying to read and if I had to pick a favorite?  It's Joel.  Unwavering, steady, devoted and protective.  His love was his walk and his talk.  I'm all in for that.

The story had so much book talk- from writing to editing and then publishing.  It was fun to be immersed in that side as well.  I love book talk!!  This is another fantastic book from this author.  I enjoyed it top to bottom, beginning to end, all the way through.

Content:  death, drinking (alcoholism),  depression.  Kissing.

- I received a complimentary copy of this book.  All opinions expressed are my own.

Just a Friend: a Sweet, Small-town Brothers RomCom by Deb Goodman

 

Sophie

Oliver and I have this thing. It’s an annual, not-a-date thing where we meet up in my small town every August and he buys me a milkshake.

That’s all. Nothing else. Except maybe an innocent hug or two.

But that’s it! I can’t fall for this man. He’s always seen me as just a friend. And besides the fact that my grandparents hate him, we’re complete opposites. He’s busy touring the world, running the family resort company with his brothers. I’m busy with pajama day at the broke-down mobile library I’ve sunk my heart and soul into.

So, yeah. It’s time for me to, once and for all, move on from this silly crush that has claimed me for far too long.

Oliver

Seeing Sophie again has…changed things. She’s different. She’s always been interesting, beautiful, and funny. But suddenly, everything I thought I knew about the world and how it operates has been mixed up in a blender. I’m all shook up, but I don’t think she feels the same way.

The worst part? I can’t seem to quit her, no matter how hard I try.

Send help.

 * Amazon * Goodreads *

Guess what?  Two things.  

1.  New book

2. New author.  Well, definitely not a new author but an author new to me.  I haven't read any books by author Deb Goodman so this was a fun treat.  Why haven't I read anything by her before?  I have no idea, but it's a thing now.  I'll be reading more by her for sure!

Things I loved:

* Sophie is a librarian who loves books like I do!

* First person, dual perspective

* The library bus named Scotty

* the flower debacle.  Oh, and the water fiasco.  😂

* Oliver pushing the cart at the book convention

* compromise 

* friends to lovers, forbidden love.

This book was engaging, funny and filled with romance.  I'm really happy I had the chance to read it.  The set up for future books with Oliver's brothers has me excited!

Content:  kissing

- I received a complimentary copy of this book.  All opinions expressed are my own.

A Novel Proposal by Denise Hunter

 

When novelist Sadie Goodwin is forced to stop writing westerns and charged with penning a contemporary romance novel to rescue her lackluster sales, there’s only one tiny problem: She’s never been in love.

Desperate to salvage her career, Sadie begins devouring romance novels. Knowing she must devote herself to this confounding genre, she accepts an invitation to hole up at her friend’s beach duplex for the summer. Where better to witness love in bloom than on the beautiful North Carolina shore?

However, once ensconced in the charming ocean-front home with her sweet maltipoo Rio, she finds many ways to procrastinate. First there’s the beach, right outside her backdoor, with all its interesting visitors (research). Then there’s the free library she decides to build and set up by the back deck (She has to do something with all those romance novels). To say nothing of Sam Ford, the grumpy neighbor on the other side of the duplex . . . who she can’t seem to stop annoying.

A social butterfly by nature, Sadie soon gets to know all the beach regulars—sunbathers, walkers, and surfers alike. The free books draw a crowd right up to the house for nice little book chats, which further irritates her reclusive neighbor, to break up her “writing.” But things take an unexpected turn when Sadie opens a recently-placed novel to find a secret compartment—and tucked inside is a beautiful engagement ring. To whom does the ring belong? Sadie is convinced she needs to find the owner and save the man’s proposal from certain doom.

She draws a reluctant Sam into the project, and slowly their connection begins to develop. Are these weird fluttery feelings the first stirrings of love? Has Sadie managed to stumble upon the very subject about which she must write—and wouldn’t Sam make the perfect alpha hero?

Will Sadie find the ring’s rightful owner? And will she manage to pen a career-saving romance novel by summer’s end?

 * Amazon * Goodreads *

There was so much to love about this book.  

* The ocean front setting

* The tiny library

* The mystery of the hidden ring

* All the book/writing references

* A cute dog

Sadie is a fun, friendly, lively character.  She's easy to like and easy to root for.  Her tangents made her human and relatable.  Sam wasn't really loving all that at first, but Sadie grew on him.  Of course she did.  It's hard to resist Sadie.  Almost no chance of it, really.  Poor Sam.  haha.  He just didn't know that he needed a Sadie in his life.

I really enjoyed reading this story!  It was personable and easy on the brain and heart.    

4/5 stars.

Content:  kissing

- I received a complimentary copy of this book.  All opinions expressed are my own.

To Win Her Hand (A Gentleman's Match #1) by Jen Geigle Johnson

 

An expert at winning a woman's hand. A woman who cannot be won.

Lord Featherstone has the world on his shoulders. Or at least his world. With two brothers and a failing estate he must make funds somehow. But what happens when he falls for a woman? Will his tactics work when the situation is so close and personal?

Everyone thinks Lady Loveluck is a wealthy widow. What they don't know is that she is on the brink of hiring herself out as a Governess in order to pay for her next meal. The only thing keeping her from employment is a growing reputation as a matchmaker. As long as she never falls for another man, as long as she doesn't allow herself to be fooled into marrying, she will be just fine.

But she never counted on being caught up in the beguiling tactics of London's renowned and not so secret matchmaker for men.

 * Goodreads * Amazon *

BARNES & NOBLE | BOOK DEPOSITORY | BOOKSHOP

🎜Matchmaker, matchmaker make me a match . . . Find me a find, catch me a catch.🎜  Does anyone know this song from Fiddler On the Roof?  This is the song that kept running through my head throughout this book.  It's now my theme song for this book.  

Lord Featherstone and Lady Loveluck are matchmakers of a sort.  They help people fine tune themselves so that they can make a love match.  They help them navigate society and give them confidence.  But then Lord Featherstone finds himself enamored with Lady Loveluck and has to become the matchmaker for himself!  (This makes me laugh because then he is singing my theme song to himself! 😂 )  Lady Loveluck is harder to convince than most women.  And Lord Featherstone isn't the only one vying for her attention.  Competition!!

There is a lot of back and forth in this book.  Both characters trying to sacrifice for the greater good- their clients, mostly.  There is a slow growing awareness and attachment.  It was all very sweet and gentle in nature.  Pure regency.  A fun start to a new series by this author.

This book is also on KU if you have that!

- I received a complimentary copy of this book.  All opinions expressed are my own.

Jen Geigle Johnson is an award-winning author, including the GOLD in Foreword INDIES Book of the Year Awards and LDSPMA Praiseworthy's top award for Romance,

Jen has more stories circulating in her brain than can possibly be told. She discovered her passion for England while kayaking on the Thames near London as a young teenager. History is her main jam. Her literary heroes include the greats: Jane Austen and Charles Dickens. But she has modern sensibilities as well.

Six children and an inspiring husband keep her going and make certain she doesn't stay glued to a keyboard or lost in obscure fascinating details of old castles.

Now, she loves to share bits of history that might otherwise be forgotten. Whether in Regency England, the French Revolution, or Colonial America, her romance novels are much like life is supposed to be: full of adventure.

WEBSITE | TWITTER | FACEBOOK | INSTAGRAM | GOODREADS

Wyoming Wild Sarah M. Eden

 

Wyoming Territory, 1876

US Marshal John “Hawk” Hawking is one of the most respected lawmen in the West, so when a telegram arrives from the small town of Sand Creek warning him of a death threat against him, he immediately begins an investigation.

Posing as a farmer, Hawk heads to Sand Creek, a town ruled by a violent and corrupt sheriff. Only one person is trying to stop him—Liesl, the sheriff’s own daughter. When she meets the self-assured and attractive new farmer, John, she hopes he might help her in the fight for justice.

John is completely unfazed by Sheriff Hodges’s attempts at intimidation, and Liesl is quickly swept up by Hawk’s courage and integrity. Just as quickly, Hawk finds himself falling for Liesl’s strength and bravery, as well as her grace and beauty.

When Liesl discovers John’s true identity, she feels betrayed. Despite her lingering distrust of him, Liesl agrees to work with him to enact a dangerous plan that will put the criminals away forever. Liesl must put her life, and her heart, in the hands of his lawman if she has any hope of saving her family and her town.

 * Goodreads * Amazon * Deseret Book *

It was so good to return to Savage Wells and see some old friends again.  Western romances are a fun change of pace for me so I was excited to delve into this one.  I read through it quickly and really enjoyed myself!

I think Liesl is my favorite.  The beginning finds her aiding the people of her town who are being hurt and tortured by her father who is the sheriff.  She is smart and brave.  I loved how hard she tried to protect people at the risk of her own well being.  Then she reluctantly joins forces with John to take her father down.  It's quite the bumpy road with more sneaking, pretending to be married and hiding out in a new town.  Liesl just handles everything with so much dignity and grace.  She is intuitive and definitely gives more than she takes.  What's not to love about that kind of heroine?!

Hawk finally find someone to love and trust.  That's saying a lot.  It was a longer road to get to that place than Liesl, mostly because he denies it for so long but he gets there.  I love his fierce determination to protect people and bring peace to his territory.

Welcome to the rough and wild west.  They say "ain't" and lots of other words that might have you scratching your head.  Horse rides, shoot outs and plenty of bad guys that will have you rooting for the good guys.

Content:  mild peril, violence, kissing.

- I received a complimentary copy of this book.  All opinions expressed are my own.

 

Just Add Mischief (An Everly Falls Novel) by Heather B. Moore

 

New neighbor? No, thank you. Peace and quiet? Yes, please.

Fresh from a broken engagement, the last thing Brandy Kane wants is to deal with her standoffish new neighbor, even if his dog is a sweetheart.

Ian Hudson doesn’t like people, which includes the busybody family who’s apparently moving in the property below his private cabin. A place he thought was abandoned for good. He’s secluded himself for a reason, and he isn’t about to allow his peace to be disturbed.

But when the rest of his teetering world takes a nose dive, his new neighbor might be the only one to get him through. It will just take adding a little mischief.

 * Goodreads * Amazon *

Aw, what a sweet romance.  I loved the peaceful setting in the woodsy area, the gradual building friendship to romance between Ian and Brandy, the pop of suspense and the cute dog!

This is a sunshine/grump, fake dating troupe with the bonus of a little suspense toward the end to liven things up.  I love a little suspense.  Or a lot.  I like that too.  :)  

It was fun to see Brandy win over Ian with her kindness and understanding.  Both Ian and Brandy have some past (and present) hurts they are trying to work through and I love how they discovered it was better to deal with them together.  They were fun characters and I enjoyed getting to know them through this story.

Content:  mild peril, mild violence.  Kissing.  Mention of infidelity.

- I received a complimentary copy of this book.  All opinions expressed are my own.

Love Rescheduled by Jennifer Peel

My name is Natalie Archer, and I confess to loving nothing more than scheduling my life. And by scheduling, I mean every aspect. So why not schedule my wedding? Do I have a groom? No. Am I dating anyone? Also no. But I have a plan. A good plan, even, to find a Mr. Right who fits all my criteria. The biggest one being he MUST not be famous. Been there, and never doing that again.

I’m just about ready to put my plan into action when my famous ex reenters the picture. Josh Keller, the hottest stand-up comedian around, otherwise known as the thorn in my side and the love of my life. With him comes a major embarrassing moment, caught on video no less. It only proves exactly how incompatible we truly are and that I made the right choice leaving him three years ago. Unfortunately, Josh doesn’t think so, and he’s doing everything in his power to prove that you can’t schedule love. Well, I’ll show him. Maybe. Possibly. Why does the dang man have to be so annoyingly charming? And how can we make it work when his famous life is way out of my comfort zone? Is there any way for us to save the date?

 * Amazon * Goodreads *

Wa-hoo!  Author Jennifer Peel has a new release!  Surprise!

Confession.  I've read it twice.  The first time I blew through it so fast because I was immersed in the story and the emotion of it, desperate for happily ever after ending I was looking for.  The second time I was determined to go slower and savor everything.  Easy enough because I already knew what would happen, right?  Nope.  I still read it like it was the first time, all aboard and full steam ahead.  It was just that good.

Emotions and feelings are something I always want to be caught up in.  I want to feel those characters and have a good sense of who they are and why.  Introvert Natalie takes quite a journey of self discovery and self love.  It felt so, so satisfying as a reader.  I felt like her cheerleader.  Extrovert Josh turns up after a few years, determined and present.  Like, literally.  He wouldn't leave Natalie's house.  Haha.  I love a determined guy.

Full of fantastic characters, amusing situations, emotionally charged moments and some fire kissing, this story is true blue Jennifer Peel.  If you've read her books before, you will know what I mean. If you haven't ever read one of her books, this would be a great place to start.

Content:  some abuse mentioned.  Kissing. 

- I received a complimentary copy of this book.  All opinions expressed are my own.

Jack and Frost Bake-Off (Christmas in Connecticut #2) by Amanda P. Jones

Jack

I’m living my worst nightmare. Competing on a baking show surrounded by loud people all day. But it’s fine. I’m fine. Our family bakery is in trouble and I’d do anything to keep the memory of Mom alive since Love Bakes is the only place where I still feel her presence. Which is why I’m so determined to win the prize money. No distractions, no friendships, no having fun. It’s all about business. Until I meet bubbly Meg—someone whom I’d normally be annoyed by. Maybe life is about more than work? Meg certainly has me thinking that way. But what about Mom's bakery?

Megan

Paying Mom back to avoid law school is the main reason I signed up for Baking Spirits Bright. I also want to expand my bakery. But when all I can think about is my number one competitor, the gorgeously grumpy people-hater, Jack, my chances of winning diminish like cake crumbs. He’s aloof and ridiculously handsome and pretends not to know who I am. The longer we compete, the more distracted I am by him. How can I win if I’m staring at him the entire time? Although, I’m not even sure I want the money anymore. I just want Jack.

* Amazon * Goodreads *

What a cute book!  Introvert Jack and extrovert Megan are on a baking show competition.  Ironically enough, they also live in the same area and are business competitors in their real life as well.  You can imagine just how well their initial meetings go.  It's a bumpy ride at first but they settle into a tentative truce, which leads to a kind of friendship (where they are both keeping an eye on each other) and eventually they end up kissing in the kitchen.  So appropriate given who they are, right?

I really had a lot of fun reading this book.  It was easy to settle in with and the characters were easy to like.  The desserts Jack and Meg made sounded amazing and I'm glad they weren't sitting in front of me or I would have eaten them all.  Yum!  Who wins this baking competition?  You have to read it to find out!  My lips are sealed. 

This book is on KU if you have that!  It's the second book of the series but can easily stand alone.  The first book is a novella.  Happy reading!

Content:  kissing

- I picked this book up on KU.

A Class of Her Own: A School Teacher Romance (The Thornback Society Book 2) by Aspen Hadley

 

Meredith Atwood has been described as a lot of things.

Her friends call her determined, strong, and dedicated. Her enemies, well, their words are a little less flattering. But, Meredith doesn’t have time to worry about appearances, especially not when she finds herself locked in a life or death battle with her new HOA president – a man, incidentally, who didn’t even want the job that should have been hers.

Brooks VanOrman doesn’t have a lot of time or interest in fighting battles. However, when he finds himself unwittingly in the position of HOA president, he realizes he’s going to have to start caring, and soon. To complicate matters, his neighbor - the feisty, dark-haired woman of his nightmares - refuses to follow the rules and he’s the one called in to enforce them.

It’s an instant clash of wills.

Only the more Brooks gets to know Meredith, the more he realizes that there’s a lot more to the fierce warrior than meets the eye.

A Class of Her Own is a closed-door, kissing only, sweet and clean romance with all the swoon but no explicit content.

 * Amazon * Goodreads *

I know Aspen Hadley isn't a new author but I think this is the first time I've reviewed one of her books on my blog.  I happened to be sitting at a table with her at an event and we got to talking.  She is a lovely person.  Lots of fun.  Of course I went to check out her books!  I have a few unread ones on my kindle but decided to start with the newest series, The Thornback Society.  I read the first book, Class Act (which is on KU) in preparation for reading and reviewing this book.  I do think these books should be read in order just for reading enjoyment.  There is a continuation of storylines for the characters.

Meredith is a prickly character until you get to know and understand her better.  Isn't that always how it is, though?  I enjoyed her emotional journey of awareness and breaking down barriers.  It was super satisfying.  I liked that her friends called her out on some of her poor verbal choices but always followed up with understanding and love.

Speaking of the friends, they take up a large portion of this book.  I would say at least half of the book is spent with them.  This puts the romance as a backstory until at least half way through.  Then it starts moving.  Personally, I would prefer to see more of the romantic relationship and the friendships as more of a secondary story but that's just me.

Brooks might be the most patient, understanding man ever.  He is so aware.  So intuitive.  A unicorn among men, as Meredith realizes too.  I loved the scene where Brooks is vacuuming and Meredith is having a moment of complete attraction.  She panics and calls her friend.  It's hilarious.  And true.  I wouldn't have thought that 20 years ago, but now?  Vacuuming is totally sexy.  

When you read this book, don't forget to read the author's notes at the back.  You won't believe how much of this story comes from the author's personal experiences.  It's crazy and so fun.

I'm really enjoying this sisterhood of friends and these sweet romances.  Author Aspen Hadley is definitely someone I'll be keeping my eye on from now on.

Content:  mention of child neglect.  Kissing.

- I received a complimentary copy of this book.  All opinions expressed are my own.

A Thousand Heartbeats by Kiera Cass

 

“Love has a sound. It sounds like a thousand heartbeats happening at the same time.”

Princess Annika has lived a life of comfort—but no amount of luxuries can change the fact that her life isn’t her own to control. The king, once her loving father, has gone cold, and Annika will soon be forced into a loveless marriage for political gain.

Miles away, small comforts are few and far between for Lennox. He has devoted his life to the Dahrainian army, hoping to one day help them reclaim the throne that was stolen from them. For Lennox, the idea of love is merely a distraction—nothing will stand in the way of fighting for his people.

But when love, against all odds, finds them both, they are bound by its call. They can’t possibly be together—but the irresistible thrum of a thousand heartbeats won’t let them stay apart.

Kiera Cass brings her signature sparkling romance to this beautiful story of star-crossed lovers and long-held secrets.

 * Goodreads * Amazon * 

First, isn't the cover pretty?  I love it.

Second, I finished this book yesterday and I'm still thinking about it.  

I'm thinking about both Annika and Lennox and their personalities and history.  From every angle.  Because Annika is SO forgiving.  I looked at it from a mother's standpoint.  From a woman's standpoint.  From a daughter's standpoint.  Is it all believable?  My conclusion is that yes, with a bit of a stretch, yes.  There aren't many people who can forgive and offer kindness and mercy like Annika and her mother, but I do believe it can happen.  

The plot is so good.  I loved it all.  It had me invested all the way through.  Oh the buried secrets!!  Of course, after Annika and Lennox meet, things really pick up and intensify.  There is a lot going on.  I liked the mystery, the action, the thought behind all of the characters and their motives.  The ending was so exciting!  I'm guilty of reading way too fast.

The bottom line is that any book that still has me thinking about it well after I've finished it, deserves the credit for filling that brain space.  I had feelings and emotions regarding the characters and what was happening.  I was equally happy and sad when the story ended.  I loved that I got a whole story, all wrapped up at the end.  No cliffhangers.  This book is a stand alone and that made me happy.

This book releases on November 29th.

Content:  violence, peril, death.  Kissing.

- I received a complimentary copy of this book.  All opinions expressed are my own.

The Call of the Sea by Sian Ann Bessey

 

A Viking Historical Romance

On the eve of her betrothal to a nobleman she’s never met, Rhiannon seeks comfort on the shores of the sea she loves so well. But instead of offering peace to her uneasy heart, the ocean heralds doom with the arrival of dreaded Viking ships. A vicious raid leads to the death of her beloved father and leaves Rhiannon’s life in tatters. Heartbroken, she travels to Ynys Môn, where she takes up residence at the royal court of Owain Gwynedd.

Leif loves voyaging on the open water. As the son of a Viking chief, he’s accustomed to his people’s practice of plundering and looting. But when one of his companions ruthlessly kills an old man in front of the man’s beautiful daughter, Leif is haunted by the memory. Desperate to find forgiveness for the atrocity he allowed to occur, he’s offered a chance at redemption through the kindly teachings of an Irish priest and the unexpected arrival of a royal fugitive. Suddenly thrust into the midst of the Cymry’s political turmoil, Leif is reunited with the dead man’s daughter―Rhiannon. Forced to work side by side to uncover the truth behind the turmoil, they come to discover that love can grow from even the most tragic of beginnings. But with such incompatible backgrounds, surely a future together can never be theirs.

 * Amazon * Goodreads * Deseret Book *

I was so drawn to this story!  I loved how the characters grew and how the plot unfolded.  It felt gentle but exciting at the same time.  This historical romance is based on real events which made it even more interesting to me.  A real Viking story!

Leif has such a good heart.  I loved how he sought to learn more about the things he didn't understand.  His curiosity led him to change his heart and then his actions.  He worked hard to right wrongs, ease burdens and discover truth.  He adored Rhiannon and it showed.

Rhiannon is the sweetest.  I admired her courage and how she never lashed out in pain or anger.  She was a character who was easy to love and root for.  Her love of the sea was my favorite.

I loved every minute of this story.  The ending really ramped up in intensity and I was fully invested, reading WAY too fast.  So, so good.  

Content:  peril, violence, death.  Kissing.  Some Christian elements.

- I received a complimentary copy of this book.  All opinions expressed are my own.

The Belle of Belgrave Square (Belles of London #2) by Mimi Matthews + Giveaway!

 

A London heiress rides out to the wilds of the English countryside to honor a marriage of convenience with a mysterious and reclusive stranger.

Tall, dark, and dour, the notorious Captain Jasper Blunt was once hailed a military hero, but tales abound of his bastard children and his haunted estate in Yorkshire. What he requires now is a rich wife to ornament his isolated ruin, and he has his sights set on the enchanting Julia Wychwood.

For Julia, an incurable romantic cursed with a crippling social anxiety, navigating a London ballroom is absolute torture. The only time Julia feels any degree of confidence is when she’s on her horse. Unfortunately, a young lady can’t spend the whole of her life in the saddle, so Julia makes an impetuous decision to take her future by the reins—she proposes to Captain Blunt.

In exchange for her dowry and her hand, Jasper must promise to grant her freedom to do as she pleases. To ride—and to read—as much as she likes without masculine interference. He readily agrees to her conditions, with one provision of his own: Julia is forbidden from going into the tower rooms of his estate and snooping around his affairs. But the more she learns of the beastly former hero, the more intrigued she becomes…

 * Amazon * Goodreads * Barnes & Noble *

Honestly?  I'm a Mimi Matthews fan.  I have yet to meet a book by her that I haven't liked.  But there are just some books that you would give more than five stars to if you could and this book is one of them for me.  I LOVED it.  With all capital letters and heart eyes.

Julia is an easy person to like.  I mean, she's a book lover so yeah, I connected with her.  She uses books as an escape from a horrible home life and social anxiety.  Others view Julia as weak and fragile but not me, and definitely not Jasper Blunt who saw her and immediately wanted her.  He saw past her insecurities into her sweet and gentle soul and never looked back.  Because this book gives us views from both characters, it was easy to see Jasper's struggles and how much he desired Julia to accept him.  He played the part of hero so well.

I loved how the whole story unfolded.  I was surprised as it went along and completely immersed in the story.  This is one of those stories that you think about when you aren't reading it and feel so anxious to get back to.  I had a couple hours in the car the day I was reading it and I could have listened to it in the car but I just had to wait until I could read with my own eyes and feel the book in my hand.  It just had to be read that way for me.

All the emotions.  All the love.  One of my most favorite books by this author and one I will want to read again.

Content:  mild swearing.  Innuendo, kissing.  Intimate relations between a married couple with no details, fade to black.

- I received a complimentary copy of this book.  All opinions expressed are my own.

USA Today bestselling author Mimi Matthews writes both historical nonfiction and award-winning proper Victorian romances. Her novels have received starred reviews in Publishers Weekly, Library Journal, Booklist, and Kirkus, and her articles have been featured on the Victorian Web, the Journal of Victorian Culture, and in syndication at BUST Magazine. In her other life, Mimi is an attorney. She resides in California with her family, which includes a retired Andalusian dressage horse, a Sheltie, and two Siamese cats.

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Terms & Conditions:

Giveaway hosted by Mimi Matthews. No Purchase Necessary. Entrants must be 18 years or older. Open to US residents only. All information will remain confidential and will not be sold or otherwise used, except to notify the winner and to facilitate postage of the book to the winner. Void where prohibited.

Giveaway Details:

1 winner (selected at random by Rafflecopter) receives a paperback copy of The Belle of Belgrave Square, signed and annotated by the author with personal comments, underlining of her favorite lines, and other highlights by Mimi Matthews.

 Giveaway is open from 12:01 am Pacific time 10/03/22 until 11:59pm Pacific time on 10/30/22.

 The winner will be announced on Mimi's blog on 10/31/22.

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The Holly and the Ivy by Sarah M. Eden, Esther Hatch, Dana LeCheminant, Anneka R. Walker

 

“The Holly and the Ivy” by Sarah M. Eden
As nursemaid to the eight-year-old Duke of Kielder, Robbie will spend her holidays with her young charge as a guest of Lord and Lady Jonquil. While the couple makes the child’s holiday magical, the handsome gardener works his own magic on Nurse Robbie’s heart.

“Hiding Christmas” by Esther Hatch
Celebrating Christmas in Scotland will only invite persecution. But that never stopped Kirstine’s English grandmother. When they are almost caught, Kirstine is forced to beg for the help of the one man she cannot abide.

“A Twist of Christmas” by Dana LeCheminant
A Christmas house party offers two members of the ton an irresistible opportunity: a weekend of anonymity. But their charade comes with unexpected romantic consequences.

“A Season to Love” by Anneka R. Walker
Alice Hunt is searching for a Christmas miracle: a husband of her choosing. With the threat of an arranged marriage looming, she looks to an unlikely matchmaker for help.

 * Goodreads * Amazon * Deseret Book *

Oh the sweetness of this regency novella collection!  Each book was so different but ever so sweet.  Honestly, if you are looking for a feel good Christmas themed read, this should be the one you snuggle in with.  It's a rock star line up of authors and each story is fantastic.  I loved each of them for different reasons.  There will be no calling out a favorite here.

There is the love of family, Christmas traditions, matchmaking, sneaking, faking, bumbling, dancing, and yes, some sweet kissing.  Each story will make you smile and warm your heart.

Oh, and I love the cover.  💚

- I received a complimentary copy of this book.  All opinions expressed are my own.

Christmas at Valentine Inn by Jennifer Peel

 

With a name like Isabelle Valentine, one would think I was destined to find true love and believe in the ridiculous notion of soul mates. Don’t get me wrong: I’m all about love. I even own an inn with my sister where each room is named after our favorite romantic couples. But soul mates? It seems highly implausible there is that one person, your person, meant only for you. My sister, of course, would tell me I’m dead wrong and that the very inn we own calls to such lovers. So, what if she did find her own unlikely happily ever after here with one of the most famous men alive? That doesn’t mean I’m meant for such a destiny.

But what happens when the implausible happens? When a man I thought I would never see again walks into my inn. The man who twenty years ago administered the kiss of all kisses. The kind of kiss that whispered to my soul and told me things I wasn’t ready to hear. But this time Dr. Patrick Abbott isn’t alone—he comes with two beautiful kids and the memory of his dead wife, who seems to haunt all their lives. So much so, Patrick would just as soon skip Christmas. At least that’s his plan until he finds himself playing hero trying to help me save my sister’s secret Christmas Eve wedding. By hero, I mean pretending it’s our wedding. Yep, you heard that right. Now we find ourselves having to act as if we are the jolliest couple around, making the season bright. But somehow the pretend feels all too real. Perhaps in all the chaos, there is room for my own Christmas dreams to come true. Maybe, just maybe, I was wrong about soul mates? Either way, I’m hanging up more mistletoe. Because hello, the man can kiss.

 * Amazon * Goodreads *

It's here, it's here, it's here!  I've been waiting to read this book, desperate to get Izzy's story.  And it was amazing!!  If ever two hearts deserve a second chance at first love, it's Patrick and Izzy's. Family oriented, mature and SEXY. My heart was ALL IN for the magic of these two.  And it was.  Magic.

I loved the backstory that was weaved into the current story so all the pieces came together seamlessly.  It was so satisfying to see Izzy step into a mothering role, reaching out to Patrick's traumatized children with love and patience.  She was such a good balance of fun, emotionally intelligent and sexy.  I loved all her sides.

Patrick.  Once he loosened up, boy was it full steam ahead!  I loved all the swoony moments between him and Izzy.  Yeah, the kissing, but the words too.  It was a more mature love between Izzy and Patrick and I was all in for it.  And don't even get me started on the ending.  Oh my stars.  It was beautiful.  My heart expanded at least ten times normal.  Sigh.  I adore happy, happy, happily ever after endings.  

Fake engagements, second chance at first love, and Christmas magic.  It's the perfect book to pick up right now.  One of my favorite Christmas love stories ever.

The first book, The Valentine Inn, is available on KU if you have that.  You don't HAVE to read it first but you will definitely be happier if you do.

Content:  some innuendo, kissing.

- I received a complimentary copy of this book.  All opinions expressed are my own.

A Seaside Wonder (Muir Harbor #2) by Melissa Tagg

 

In one evening, Indi's world falls apart. Enter the shy professor her family mistakes for her fiancé...make that ex-fiancé.

Professor Philip West never wanted to return to Maine . . . or his grandfather’s miserable old house. But after his mother’s death, he’s now the guardian of a teenage half sister he barely knows—one who doesn’t want anything to do with him. He longs to help her heal, but he’s exhausted and numb, desperate for relief of his own. Maybe that’s why he’s so easily distracted when he happens upon the little shop with a name on its storefront window that sounds familiar, a hint of a mystery nudging him inside.

More than a decade has passed since Indi Muir made the heartbreaking decision she’s never recovered from—though she’s certainly tried. She has a full life running her shop and creating the artsy pieces that fill its shelves. If she can just stay busy, she’ll keep her hurt and regret at bay. But when her ex-fiancé returns to Muir Harbor, he brings news that shatters her carefully built walls. Things only get worse when lurking danger comes calling at her childhood home.

The one bright spot amid Indi’s turmoil is the shy stranger who wandered into her shop months ago and his moody but lovable sister. As she confronts her past and the mysterious threat facing her family, she’s intent on helping Philip win over his sister. He just might win over Indi, too, if they can overcome old secrets and wounds, outrun rising peril . . . and take a chance on love.

 * Amazon * Goodreads *

I've been so eager to return to this family in Muir Harbor, Maine.  The setting is idyllic and I so enjoyed the first story that I couldn't wait to have more.

Indy is in the spotlight for this story.  She's a character that you know has a LOT going on in her mind but she just doesn't let it out.  It's like a pressure cooker in there.  I loved the first meeting for Philip and Indy.  It was humiliating for both them for different reasons but was a bit amusing from a reader's standpoint.  I loved how Philip and Indy's relationship progressed and how steady and kind Philip was for Indy.  He said the sweetest things.  Both characters were easy to invest in emotionally.  I felt connected to their struggles and their successes.  

There is a bit of mystery swirling around that started in the first book (which I highly recommend you read first, but I don't think you HAVE to) and progresses in this book.  It was a good added element that really leveled up the plot.  The ending really left me longing for the next book because man, things are really ramping up.  I loved family, this series and this book!

Content:  possible triggers: adoption, abandonment.  Kissing.

- I received a complimentary copy of this book.  All opinions expressed are my own.