The Chad Next Door (Love in Sun City) by Dana LeCheminant

 

Torn between a quiet life and the chaos of unexpected love, Private Investigator Chad Briggs is set to find out if a snowstorm can melt his heart in Laketown. When Hope, the all too attractive—and far too young—woman next door, Chad’s life is thrown into a whirlwind he would rather not face, but he doesn’t have much of a choice.

Trying to navigate her new life after unexpectedly gaining custody of her dead sister’s kids, Hope knows she shouldn’t be interested in her much older neighbor, no matter how easy he is on the eyes. But when a snowstorm traps them together in one house, can they ignore the sparks between them?

With every reason to think a relationship is impossible, especially with the kids in the mix, they know a weekend fling isn't going to end well.

But their hearts didn't get the memo, and they might be in too deep to back out.

 * Amazon * Goodreads *

 I am loving this new series by author Dana LeCheminant!  This is technically the second book released in the series but they can be read in any order.  It's a group of siblings who basically fall in love at the same time.  Each book follows a different sibling.  I read (but didn't officially review) the first book, She Likes It, Hey Micah.  It was so good.

Chad is the oldest sibling in this group and has practically taken on the responsibility of caregiver/parent.  He loves his siblings fiercely and it's so admirable.  I love how rock solid and dependable he is.  He is a fixer.  A rescuer.  A protector.  And also, a bit grumpy.  haha

I loved the family dynamic with Hope and the children and then Chad too.  The journey of the relationships from the beginning to the end of the book is so satisfying.  My mama heart just wanted to love them all.  Oh!  And the dog.  I loved the dog.

So many fun troupes here!  Forced proximity, age gap, grumpy/sunshine.  The chemistry was off the charts.  I loved the attraction, the banter and the kissing.  Yum.  I cannot wait to get my hands on the next book!!

This book (and this series) is on KU if you have that.

Content:  kissing

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

What Dreams May Come Dana LeCheminant

 

In a bid to escape the incessant attentions of a man she does not love, governess Lucy Hayes embarks on a journey to begin a new post. But when she’s stranded in a storm, her plans go shockingly awry. Desperate times call for desperate measures: against her better judgment, she agrees to a foolhardy scheme presented by a handsome stranger, known to her as only William. But when her mysterious benefactor falls ill, she finds herself unwittingly drawn into his family home in a case of mistaken identity: they believe she is William’s betrothed. Though she realizes she should admit the truth, the family’s warmth and welcome make it all too easy to play along, just for a while. Until she meets Baron Lord Simon Calloway, William’s older brother.

Simon is suspicious of his lovely future sister-in-law, a woman who seems completely unsuited to his self-important brother. As they wait for William to awake, Simon and Lucy are drawn ever closer together. But danger draws closer too, in the form of her unwanted suitor. Lucy knows that when Simon discovers the truth, he will despise her. Now she must find a way to keep herself safe . . . and avoid falling hopelessly in love with a man she can never have.

 * Amazon * Goodreads * Deseret Book *

First, I have to say that I love the cover of this book.  It's so pretty.

Have you ever watch the movie "While You Were Sleeping"?  This book is so much like that story but set in a regency time period.  All those vibes were there.  Mistaken identity, mistaken betrothal, some uncorrected assumptions and just like that, Lucy is in quite a predicament.  She needs help so she lets the Calloway family continue in their assumptions but always feels so guilty about it.   As she should.  The growing friendship and awareness between Simon and Lucy was well done and I loved it.  The last bit of the book picked up in pace and made for a very satisfying ending.

This story was endearing.  There were so many likable characters who filled up the spaces in between and around Lucy and Simon.  It was so easy to love them all.  They made such a pretty familial picture.  I really hope a story about Nick is in the works.  He's a character I'd really love to know better.

This book releases on May 2nd.  There is a special launch bundle if you pre-order the physical book.  Just purchase and then fill out this form!  

https://forms.gle/sBna7ENC8BxwMCWF7

Content:  very mild peril, kissing

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

Love on Display (The Wonder Boys #3) by Dana LeCheminant

 

They’re sworn enemies. They also happen to be incredibly attracted to one another.

After bonding at a half-marathon, rival gym owners Cam and Kailani discover the person they thought could be their soulmate turns out to be the reason their respective businesses are failing. When a heat-of-the-moment kiss leads to the pair becoming viral sensations, they pretend to be a couple to keep up interest despite the hatred they feel toward each other.

But new clients are not the only thing drawn in by the star-crossed lovers’ fake relationship. They also grab the attention of a famous fitness mogul who tells them he wants to sponsor one of their gyms. The catch? One of them has to beat the other in a televised competition.

With undeniable attraction pulling the two together for real, Cam and Kailani agree to set their differences aside and enjoy the time they get to spend together while competing. Each new challenge becomes a chance for the two of them to get to know each other better, but their pasts keep getting in the way.

Unless they can learn to truly trust each other, not even a miracle can save a relationship that was doomed from the start.

 * Amazon * Goodreads *

It's book three in the Wonder Boys Series by Dana LeCheminant!  Hello, Cam.   I think Cam's story might be my favorite so far.  I loved the instant crackling chemistry, the first kiss early on and how everything just built from there.  It was so good to learn more about Cam and Kailani who are both awesome characters.  Even in competition, it was easy to root for them both because they deserved it.  It's been so interesting to see how each of these Wonder Boys views themselves within the friend group.  Some conceptions are true, some are very off but through it all they are becoming stronger, more unified.  I'm all in for that.

I am just loving this series.  Each book rings with personality.  The spotlight shines on one couple each book but all the friends are still there, still involved.  It creates a real feeling of family.  Guess who is next?!  Kit!  The anchor of the group.  I can't wait to see what's up for him!!

Content:  kissing

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

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.

Love in Writing (The Wonder Boys #2) by Dana LeCheminant

Allie has sworn off dating.

Which is unfortunate, because the cute guy at the grocery store has finally struck up a conversation, and shy and sweet Ben is even more adorable than he looks. When an ex shows up trying to rekindle the flame at the same time her mother tries to set her up with a neighbor, Allie ropes Ben into being her fake boyfriend to get everyone off her back.

Ben has been in love with the stranger at the grocery store for months despite never speaking to her. When he finally works up the courage to say hi, he’s suddenly thrown into a fake relationship with no chance of things becoming real. Not unless he helps Allie on her journey of self-discovery.

A weekend of pretending to be a couple turns into weeks of hanging out and discovering together the people they want to be. But despite Allie’s growing feelings for practically perfect Ben, she isn’t sure she can risk the best friendship she’s ever had when all of her past relationships have failed.

Or maybe a little risk is worth a chance at real love.

 * Amazon * Goodreads *

Book two is here!  This is a book series I am SO excited about!  The Wonder Boys!  Do I think you need to read book one (Love On Camera) before reading this one?  No.  But you will be probably be happier if you do.  Plus, it's a great story you just don't want to miss.  You can find it HERE.

Ben and Allie are both great characters with a great arch of growth.  I just loved Ben, especially as I got to know him more and more.  I feel like I fell in love with him right along with Allie.  He's so sweet, so unassuming, so aware of Allie and what she needs.  She brings out the best in him and makes him want better things for not just Allie, but himself too.

This whole story was so gentle and soft around my heart.  It felt so good.  I adored it.

And of course I love this group of friends who are always around, in every book.  The Wonder Boys!!  And Madi.  😀  I can't wait for the next book!!

This book is in KU if you have that.  Happy reading, friends!

Content:  kissing

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

Love on Camera (Wonder Boys Series) by Dana LeCheminant

 

Madi doesn’t have time to date. Oliver has all the time in the world.

When wedding photographer Madi is challenged to find herself ten dates in three months, she turns to her older brother’s three best friends to be her stand-ins. It helps her win the challenge without having to deal with the stress of dating. What could go wrong?

Oliver hasn’t had much to do since selling his company, and helping Madi has given his life meaning again. But when she asks him to pose as her boyfriend—more than just a date here and there—he suddenly finds himself questioning his feelings toward the girl he always saw as a little sister. Feelings that would get him murdered by his best friend.

No one sees the real Oliver the way Madi does, and Madi has never been as comfortable around anyone as she is with Oliver. With the fake part of their relationship feeling less and less fake, they both have to decide if they’re brave enough to take that first step toward something real. Is a chance at love worth risking a lifetime of friendship?

 * Goodreads * Amazon *

Cute, cute, cute, cute.  This book is honestly just so cute (and so is the cover!! 😍).  Author Dana LeCheminant really nailed this friends to lovers story between Oliver and Madi who have known each other since they were little.  Both Oliver and Madi are gentle people who keep feelings and difficulties close to themselves.  They aren't loud or showy, but steady and wicked good at what they do.  I really loved them both- separately and together, as friends and then as more.  My heart was seriously chanting all the hopeful things, "risk it!  Do it!  Kiss her!"  You get the idea.  😉

I think one of my favorite scenes was when Oliver was running in a park and saw Madi doing a photoshoot.  He watches her and then gets caught so he pretends to be stretching.  He was trying to play it so cool.  It played out in my head like a scene in a movie.

Good news!  This is the first book in a new series.  We are introduced to the Wonder Boys in this book and man, their stories are going to be fun!  I can't wait to read them!

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.

The Thief and the Noble by Dana LeCheminant

 

A Robin Hood Regency

“Remember who you’re fighting for.”

As the daughter of a marquess, Lady Marian Russell is poised to impress in her first London Season. She is young, beautiful, and wealthy—but catching an eligible husband is the last thing on her mind. Marian is disillusioned with how the upper class lives while the poor of London suffer, and she is determined to right this imbalance. When she comes face-to-face with a mysterious man who steals from arrogant aristocrats and redistributes the spoils to the poor, Marian recognizes a motivation that mirrors her own. She is determined to discover the true identity of the unscrupulous hero and offer her assistance.

When she unmasks the bandit Robin, he begrudgingly agrees to train the lovely Marian in the art of thievery in exchange for her silence, quickly realizing that his heart may be stolen next. But when they discover a copycat thief operating in London, they are faced with a foe whose purpose is far from noble. Amid distracting suitors, becoming a champion of the poor, and a growing attraction Marian can’t ignore, can she and Robin expose the renegade pilferer without risking themselves.

 * Amazon * Goodreads * Deseret Book *

If I'm being honest, sometimes I have a hard time with re-tellings and I can't really say why.  But not this time.  I lovey loved this book and it's characters.

Marian and Robin are two interesting and fun characters with such personality!  It was oozing right out of the pages and into my heart and head.  This story created a fantastic movie in my head and I love when that happens.  There was danger, adventure, mystery and growing tension throughout the book.  It led to quite the exciting ending!  

This book releases on February 7th!

Content:  mild peril, mild violence.  Kissing.

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

A World without You (Terms of Inheritance, #3) by Dana LeCheminant

 

With a video channel that gets millions of views, Sara Hawthorne is the authority on convincing women around the world to live their best lives. If only she was practicing what she preached… She’s never felt a part of her perfect family, and the only person who truly knows her is her best friend, Rohan, who’s in love with her.

And she doesn’t feel the same way.

After her mom kicks her out of the house with an impossible task to earn her inheritance, Sara takes a job in the family hotel and crashes on Rohan's couch until she can find her own place. The more time she spends with him, though, the more Sara starts to question how she feels about Rohan, and she's hit with heartbreak when he starts dating someone who totally deserves him.

Trapped between her love for him and her desire to see him happy in his new relationship, Sara does everything she can to hide her feelings. But doing so risks the only friendship she's ever known, and letting Rohan live his best life might mean she has to live in a world without him.

 * Amazon * Goodreads *

Yesterday was release day for book three in this Terms of Inheritance series!  I would highly recommend reading this series in order but I wouldn't say you HAVE to.  It will just make more sense and provide more of a background for the characters.  Especially since I came to LOVE Rohan in the previous books.  I was so excited to see a story with him in the very center of things.

I wasn't sure how the author was going to get me to like Sara though.  She sure doesn't make a great case for herself in the previous books and I have a really hard time liking people I think are mean.  Sara is pretty self absorbed and honestly throughout the whole time she has known Rohan (since childhood), she has always been a bit mean to him.  It was good to be able to understand Sara better through flashbacks and memories and it helped me to like her more.  Luckily, Sara has many redeeming qualities and it was easy see her growth through the book.

Rohan is really amazing.  The world would be a better place if filled with people just like Rohan.  Generous, kind, forgiving, attentive.  Rohan has a good head on his shoulders.

I'm really enjoying this series.  We get a little glimpse of the next book at the end of this one and it looks like it's going to be interesting!  One family member left.

Content:  kissing. 

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

Holding On to Everything (Terms of Inheritance #2) by Dana LeCheminant

 

As CEO of a billion-dollar hotel company, Jace Hawthorne has everything he could ever want. But the only way to fulfill his father's dying wish is to give it all up, so he takes to the streets of Manhattan under the name of Tom, living with nothing. When he's hit by a cab, he can't help falling for the beautiful nurse who helps him.

Because Madeleine thinks he is someone else, Jace runs back to his old life before his lie hurts them both. But Madeleine shows up to his office asking for donations for her clinic and doesn’t recognize him, and Jace is torn between revealing who he is and keeping his distance; she has never been shy about her hatred of CEOs.

The closer Jace gets to Madeleine as he helps her find more donations, the more he falls for her and the less his old life seems to fit him. But telling her the truth will only break both their hearts, and he’s in too deep to walk away.

Trying to decide what he values most in life, Jace hopes he can find a way to keep his fancy life and the woman he loves. The chances of losing everything are growing with every passing day, but Jace is willing to risk it all for a shot at happiness.

 * Amazon * Goodreads *

This book doesn't release until Aug. 30th so I'm a little ahead of the game but this is when I could fit a review in so here we go!

First, this is the second book in the series and I didn't read the first book so I knew while reading it that I was missing part of a previous story but I didn't feel lost or anything.  I will have to go back and read that book though because I can tell it was a good one!

I really liked this story!  I liked the road Jace took as Tom, what he learned and how he eventually applied it to his life- his relationships and his business.  Madeleine was awesome too.  I loved her passion for helping people and I loved how hard she fought to keep that passion alive.  Jace and Madeleine are two fantastic, inspiring characters so it was easy to get caught up in their journey and story.  I guess what I loved most was Jace learning to really see people.  He started to make ways to connect to people and understand them and that felt like a message we all could use today.

I'll be interested to read the next story in this series!  I have a feeling it's going to be an angsty one because Jace's sister has a LOT of pent up anger, I think.  She's a feisty one!

Content:  kissing

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

In Front of Me (A Simple Love Story #4) by Dana LeCheminant

When all your plans fail, can you find the courage to follow a new path?

Lissa Montgomery is on track to be Boston’s top financial analyst—or she would have been, if her misogynistic boss had ever given her a chance. Suddenly jobless, Lissa has little hope for her life going according to plan. But then she meets handsome and charming Brennon, a workaholic who is just as driven as she is. In order to spend more time with him when he’s not at the office, she agrees to look after his blind roommate, Steve, after he’s hit by a car.

Where Brennon is sweet and thoughtful and practically perfect, Steve is grumpy and abrasive and refuses to find a reason to be happy in his newly sightless life. Getting to know Brennon, though, means being stuck with his best friend too, even if he is a little rough around the edges.

But as Steve starts to open up and finally live again, Lissa realizes there’s a lot more to life than climbing the corporate ladder. And she has to wonder who is really blind, since Steve seems to be the only one who can see what is right in front of him.

In Front of Me is a sweet contemporary romance that functions as a standalone, with recurring characters from the rest of the Simple Love Story series.

 * Amazon * Goodreads *

Hello Dana LeCheminant, new author to me! I know this is book #4 but it's my first book by this author and I thought it was very good! I love finding new authors in the sweet romance genre! As stated above, this book can easily stand alone which I can attest to, but I also knew that the secondary characters had stories that I didn't know about. Especially Lissa's brother, Seth. I need to go back and read that one for sure. Well, I'm actually curious about all the characters so I hope I can find time to go back and read them all!

I thought this story flowed very well. I got to know the characters in way that seemed natural and easy. Lissa's journey to discovery and change was a satisfying one, especially since she was just a bit self absorbed in the beginning. When Lissa locks in and starts paying attention to the people and things around her, she is amazing.

There is a character in this book that I'm crossing my fingers will get the next story! My heart NEEDS him to have his own happily every after.

This book (and this series) is on Kindle Unlimited if you have that.

Content: kissing, drinking alcohol