Review: Crossed Paths by Dani Elias

Title: Crossed Paths

Author: Dani Elias
 
Buy Link: CLICK HERE

Publisher's Insight:
 
Two souls, one journey, and a spark they never saw coming.

Alexandra
Two years after my divorce, life has settled into a predictable rhythm—running the pub, cooking for one, and dodging my brother Peter’s constant attempts to fix my social life. When he drags me along on a village ramble, I’m only going to keep the peace. Then Hunter shows up. He’s Peter’s best mate, the charming hotel owner who always seems to have a smile and a clever remark ready. He claims he’s just scoping out the walk for his guests, but somehow, he keeps ending up right by my side, making me laugh and, annoyingly, reminding me what it feels like to have fun. I’ve been waiting for life to surprise me—maybe I’ve been waiting in the wrong place.

Hunter
Owning a small, exclusive hotel comes with its challenges—like knowing how to sell guests on the local attractions. So, when I hear about a village walking group, I decide to give it a shot. For “research,” of course. My best mate Peter agrees to tag along, but he brings his sister Alexandra, and suddenly, I’m in over my head. Alex isn’t just Peter’s big sister; she’s gorgeous, clever, and has this spark I can’t ignore. Too bad she’s also living like a hermit, and Peter wants me to help “get her back out there.” What he doesn’t know is that I’ve fancied her for years. Nudging her out of her shell might just break mine wide open.

Review:

Dani Elias' new book Crossed Paths is a beautifully written book about Alexandra (Alex) who has been hurt one too many times and has decided that the only way to remedy that situation is to stay holed up in her own little world.

Hunter has always liked Alex, but the bro code kept him from acting on it for fear of losing his best friend. But when he joins in on the Ramblers group he's back in touch with Alex and realizes that the feelings he's held at check won't stay hidden for much longer.

If you love a small town romance, with extra steam, a farting dog, and a meddling neighbor then this book is for you. Pick up Dani's new book coming soon.

I'd like to thank Happily Booked and the author for giving me the opportunity to read this book.

************ I received this in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own and have not been swayed by this fact. I NEVER charge for a review.

Review: Backed by You by A. Boss

Title: Backed by You 

Author: A. Boss
 
Buy Link: CLICK HERE

Publisher's Insight:
 
Callie Ryan

I came to Montana for peace and quiet, not a moody landlord with walls higher than the mountains surrounding his property.
Beau Montgomery is frustratingly handsome with his piercing eyes and capable hands. He’s a man of few words, all of them gruff and spoken alongside a scowl that could freeze hell itself.
This is his sanctuary. And I’ve invaded it.
But when Hollywood calls me back, he’s there—steady, protective, and unexpectedly gentle. Now I’m seeing another side of the brooding mountain man, one that makes my heart race.
And for the first time, success isn’t what I’m hiding from.

Beau Montgomery

She’s a pain in my ass.
A sassy little woman with the body of a goddess who doesn’t think she has to listen to a word I say. And don’t even get me started on how she drives like she just robbed a bank.
She’s temporary. I don’t do temporary.
Not since I learned how quickly everything can change.
But there’s something about her that gets under my skin—the way she talks to her dog, how she sees through my defenses, the quiet strength behind her smile.
I’ve spent years building walls to keep everyone out. Now the one woman who shouldn’t belong in my world is the only one I can’t imagine living without.
After fifteen years of dedicating my life to this country, I didn’t think I’d be put on my knees, begging for a chance at forever.

Review:

Beau's reluctantly back in town because of a military injury, and when he finds that there's someone in "his" cabin he's not thrilled. All he wants is to be alone, and staying with his family won't allow that. So one night, after trying to sleep in the rain - in a tent - his better judgement goes out the door.

Callie has come to Montana at the suggestion of her best friend, but she wasn't expecting to love it as much as she does. But why is she hiding in rural Montana, and from what?

The sparks fly between Beau and Callie in the latest book from A. Boss, and is by far her best book yet! If you love a grumpy/sunshine, small-town romance, this book is for you.

I'd like to thank A. Boss for the opportunity to read this book.

************ I received this in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own and have not been swayed by this fact. I NEVER charge for a review.

Audiobook Review: The Makeup Girl by Eddy Twice

The Makeup Girl: Crash On You by Eddy Twice
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

Ivy lost it all, her boyfriend, her home, her furniture, even her bed. And when she's forced to get a job after not having had one for a while, she lands a job at a makeup company. I found it hard to believe that Ivy just landed a job based on a friend's recommendation with no skill set at all. And to have found an apartment as quickly as she did seems to be a little unusual too.

While the banter was good in this book, I found it very difficult to keep my focus. The ending was satisfying, but was sped up so quickly that I felt like I missed some of what happened in the interim.

Bonnie Walsh and Daniel Rosenberg did an okay job with the narration.

I'd like to thank the publisher and NetGalley for the opportunity to read this book.

View all my reviews

Audiobook Review: The Code for Love by Anne Marsh

Title: The Code for Love

Author: Anne Marsh
 
Buy Link: CLICK HERE

Publisher's Insight:
 
A software engineer convinced that algorithms and romance don’t mix takes a work road trip with her surfer-boy nemesis in this swoon-worthy enemies-to-lovers romance.

Her perfect plan has a gorgeous glitch…

Software engineer Pandora Fyffe is known for being prickly. The same can’t be said for world-famous surfer Ozzy Wylde, Pandora’s neighbor, a social media star beloved for his relaxed charm. The eight-pack abs and angelic face don’t hurt, either. Everyone likes Ozzy, while Pandora’s boss can barely remember her name.

But Pandora’s aiming to change all that with a new app that predicts a user’s ideal travel partner. Sure, there are bugs—the demo identified Ozzy as her perfect match! Now her boss wants them to take a romantic Mexican road trip filled with fake-dating posts to build their brand. At the end of it, one of them will win Pandora’s dream job.

Soon they’re rumbling through the beaches, deserts and fishing villages of Baja, letting their guards down, confessing fears, falling deeper. Nothing prepared her for sharing close quarters with the force of nature that is Ozzy—or for what will happen to her heart when the journey ends…

Review:

Pandora got fired for kissing surf god Ozzy and the face of the new campaign at work. Not a good day.

Fast forward, and Pandora sees someone climbing up the wall to the condo she lives in, and she rightfully calls the cops. But you'll never guess who was climbing the wall... Ozzy, of course.

When Pandora is in a pickle at work because of the ongoing prank war going on between her and Ozzy, he comes to her rescue and matches with her on the app she is building to find road trip buddies. Will they be able to live in a small camper van in Mexico while they try to enjoy their trip? Only time will tell.

I had a very hard time getting into this book, though I really wanted to. There was something about it that just seemed to drag on and on. And while there is an enemies to lovers trope, this seemed like an impossible gap to bridge. I give the book 3.5 stars, but have rounded up.

Mooreghan Martin read this book, and I think that's what saved the book for me. I could listen to her read just about anything.

I'd like to thank the publisher and NetGalley for the opportunity to read this book.

************ I received this in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own and have not been swayed by this fact. I NEVER charge for a review.

Audiobook Review: The Ex Effect by Dana Hawkins

Title: The Ex Effect

Author: Dana Hawkins
 
Buy Link: CLICK HERE

Publisher's Insight:
 

Morgan Rose has always been the girl with the plan. Color-coded calendars, backup plans for her backup plans, and a wedding business that’s her entire world. Only one woman ever managed to derail Morgan’s organized life and shatter her heart in the process. But Morgan doesn’t think about Frankie Lee anymore.

Until Morgan meets the photographer hand-picked by her latest clients and discovers that Frankie is not miles away in New York like she thought. She's back in Spring Harbors, looking infuriatingly good, and Morgan's carefully ordered world descends into chaos.

Morgan has just 87 days to pull off the wedding of her career and she’s not going to let Frankie derail this opportunity. She will not be distracted by Frankie’s new haircut or the shadowy dips between her shoulders and biceps. And she won’t care about Frankie’s unfairly salty attitude when she left Morgan.

But some sparks never die, and as the wedding approaches and the tension between Morgan and Frankie grows, can they face up to the mistakes that pulled them apart, or risk it happening all over again?

A perfectly spiced romance about learning that the best love stories are worth fighting for… twice. The next unputdownable read for fans of Ashley Herring Blake, Alexandria Bellefleur and Haley Cass.

Review:

Second-chance romances... step aside! Dana Hawkins has given us a winner.

Morgan is type A and slightly anal retentive, but she gets her job done. When a wedding comes along that has to be ready in 87 days, she panics. She's without a venue, but she has a plan. But first, she has to meet up with the photographer for the wedding, Frankie. But little does she know, Frankie's not who Morgan is assuming; she's her ex.

Frankie, the one who got away, the one who is the barrier to getting the venue for this wedding. The owners of the property give the go ahead to start renovations, but there's one stipulation... Frankie has to be there every step of the way to approve of what's going on. And with Frankie's help, Morgan thinks she's got a chance at pulling this off.

Katie Beudert did an exceptional job narrating this book and I can say I'd love to listen to more books she reads.

I'd like to thank the publisher and NetGalley for the opportunity to read this book.

************ I received this in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own and have not been swayed by this fact. I NEVER charge for a review.

Audiobook ARC Review: Writing Mr. Right by Alina Khawaja

Title: Writing Mr. Right

Author: Alina Khawaja
 
Buy Link: CLICK HERE

Publisher's Insight:
 
In this charming, delightfully original rom-com, a struggling writer’s muse suddenly comes to life, but can they create their own happily-ever-after?

Legal secretary by day, aspiring novelist by night, Ziya Khan pours herself into writing stories featuring the kinds of diverse characters she loves. In exchange, she’s got a growing pile of rejection letters. When yet another “thanks but no thanks” arrives on the eve of her thirtieth birthday, Ziya decides to throw her novel and her dreams in the trash. End of story.

Except that when Ziya wakes up, there’s a flesh-and-blood version of her muse standing in her kitchen. His name is Aashiq, and it’s his job to inspire Ziya to write again. From singing karaoke to standing up for herself at work, he’s pushing Ziya out of the sidelines and into the world, showing her how to live and love fully.

Even more impossibly, something starts to blossom between them. But as Ziya rediscovers the joy of writing, Aashiq starts to disappear. His job is almost done. And it seems soon Ziya will have to choose: Her art…or her heart?

Review:

As an author, I can relate to the problems that Ziya had in this book. She was pouring her heart out only to have people tell her that what she wrote wasn't good enough. Then the worst happened... she gave up. That is until she made an unintentional wish that brought her muse to life. And what happened next is nothing short of magic.

Aashiq, the muse, shows her that life and writing is not all about sitting down and putting pen to paper. I found such joy in this book. So many lessons that Aashiq told Ziya pertain to my life as well. So not only was this book a work of fiction, but it worked to light a fire under me in the form of a self-help book.

Then... Alina did it... she made me cry. If a book can make me cry, it is automatically a 5-star review, so Alina... thank you for providing this wonderful work of fiction and self help even if that's not how you envisioned it to be.

Mayuri Bhandari did an excellent job reading this book! <3

I'd like to thank the publisher and NetGalley for the opportunity to read this book.

************ I received this in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own and have not been swayed by this fact. I NEVER charge for a review.

Audiobook Review: Scotch on the Rocks by Elliot Fletcher

Scotch on the Rocks by Elliot Fletcher
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

No matter how she tries, and how many rules she tries to implement, she's toast. Juniper does not want to fall for a Macabe brother, so she's made rules... plenty of them. But none of them seem to stick.

The wonderful back and forth between Juniper and Callum is smoking hot, even when they are actively avoiding each other. Elliot Fletcher nailed this right on the head and was able to make me yearn for more.

Russ Bain and Rebecca McClay did an amazing job voicing these two characters and the others that are in the book. They helped to bring spice to life.

I'd like to thank the publisher HarperAudio and NetGalley for giving me the opportunity to read this wonderful book. Thank you.

View all my reviews

Audiobook Review: The Double Play by Annah Conwell

The Double Play by Annah Conwell
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Hazel has the chance to work for another sports figure, but does she want to work for Emmett, a single dad, when all she's been used to is two parent families? Her former employer highly recommended Emmett, so she decided to give him a chance. But when she met June, his beautiful daughter, she was smitten and knew she had to have the job.

Little did she know that she'd fall head over heels for this grumpy baseball player. But fall she did, and hard. And not only for him, but for June as well.

Annah Conwell has provided us with an exceptional grumpy/sunshine, nanny, sports romance, rom-com. How she fit so much in such a little space is beyond me.

I loved the dynamic between Emmett and Hazel, and Hazel and June. And I want to go back and live in this world with them as my besties forever.

Tim Paige and Charlotte North did a wonderful job narrating this book and I would certainly give any book they were reading a chance.

I'd like to thank the publisher and NetGalley for the opportunity to read this book.

View all my reviews

Audiobook Review: The Single Dad's Guide to Recreation by Karen Grey

Title: The Single Dad's Guide to Recreation

Author: Karen Grey
 
Buy Link: CLICK HERE

Publisher's Insight:
 

He’s the big-city corporate VP slashing costs. She’s the sunny, small-town toddler-whisperer in his crosshairs. It should be easier for them to keep their hands off each other.

The new guy in town may be a hot single dad–we’re talking total, mouthwatering eye candy here–but that isn’t stopping him from shuttering my favorite program here at Climax Parks & Rec.

Nor does it stop me from being blinded by lust and tripping over my own feet every time I see him, even though we’re completely wrong for each other.

He’s all business; my job is to play.
He’s moved upstate from Manhattan; I’ve returned to my small town roots.
He’s overwhelmed by his two adorable kids; doctors told me I’ll never be a mother.

Oh, and did I mention that it’s his job to “re-org” (aka ruin) everything I love about my job?

Despite all this, he’s got me dreaming of something I told myself I’d given up on: a family of my own.

Warning! Do not read this book unless you love:

• ❤️Uptight heroes who are silly with their kids
• ❤️Sunshiny, Cinderelly heroines
• ❤️Nosy, interfering, small-town bureaucrats
• ❤️Possibly magical clock towers
• ❤️Parks and Recreation and Schitt’s Creek vibes

To the reader: my romance novels are all lighthearted and humorous and the main two characters are guaranteed to find a happy ending. However, they may run into a few obstacles along the way as well as need healing from incidents in their former lives. If you’d like content guidance regarding sex/nudity, death, mental health and/or reproductive health challenges, you can find them in detail at karengrey.com/contentguidance

Review:

Karen Grey is at it again. She's delivered a laugh out loud book with feels for miles.

Avery is fighting to save her mother's program at the Parks and Rec department. But when Josh comes in she's not sure if she should hate him, or jump him. It's not until she meets the real him (the one with kids and a life) instead of the work him that she realizes that she's craving for more, with him.

This book had me laughing, crying, and longing for more. When they are forced to go to a work retreat together and have to share one bed... (love that trope) that they both realize that this could be more.

Grayson Owens and Carly Robins did a good job narrating this audiobook.

I'd like to thank Karen Grey and BookFunnel for the opportunity to listen to this book.

************ I received this in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own and have not been swayed by this fact. I NEVER charge for a review.

Review: Fighting by Jordana Blake

Title: Fighting

Author: Jordana Blake
 
Buy Link: CLICK HERE

Publisher's Insight:
 

She’s fighting her attraction. He’s fighting an old reputation.

Nessa Rabin always puts herself last on the list. She’s responsible. An Ivy League graduate. A successful sex therapist. But after her breakup with a man she calls ‘Satan’s Bikini Waxer’, the only relationships she wants to fix are her clients’. Pushed to unwind during their friend’s wedding, she doesn’t expect to fall into bed with the bride’s brother—a man she’s had claws out for since high school.

Mateo Santos-Manolo is always up for a good time. But the party stops when one nepo-baby costs him his job. Instead of sulking, this former playboy heads home to spend a few months in Peacock Springs. Determined to forget his big-city woes, Mateo’s looking to start his own firm—and reunite with the one-night stand that he can’t forget.

When they find themselves co-chairs of the upcoming Sunflower Fest, a little white lie pushes Nessa and Mateo to play the part of happy couple—or risk the gentrification of their beloved hometown. Soon, it’s clear they are a force to be reckoned with… so long as they can survive each other.

Fighting includes a M/F, antagonists-to-lovers, small-town romance full of quirky townies, found family, spice, and a guaranteed HEA. It is the second book in a series of interconnected romantic traum-com stories, exploring human stress response behavior. Set in Peacock Springs, NJ, they highlight healing through laughter and love.

Review:

Nessa is a sex therapist, so men seem to throw her into the roll of, "You have to know what you're talking about, so let's do it!" But the only person who takes the time to 'see' her is Mateo.

When they hooked up randomly, Nessa thought it was the end, but Mateo knew things would never be the same. But is he prepared for the baggage that Nessa carries around? Only time will tell.

I fell in love with Nessa's character and her framily so much. They are great at what they do, and that's being there for each other. But does Nessa have room for one more in her corner of the world, or is what she have enough?

If you are interested in a best friend's older brother, Fake Dating, Dislike-to-Love, Small Town Romantic Traum-Com, then this is for you. Jordana Blake is a master at the mental health rep and I thank her for seeing us. You are appreciated, Ms. Blake, you are appreciated.

I'd like to thank the author and Happily Booked PR for the opportunity to review this book.

************ I received this in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own and have not been swayed by this fact. I NEVER charge for a review.

Audiobook Review: Finding Mr. July by Anna E. Collins

Title: Finding Mr. July

Author: Anna E. Collins
 
Buy Link: CLICK HERE

Publisher's Insight:
 
She’s ready to do whatever it takes to get the job of her dreams, even if it means working with a pile of adorably unruly pups--and the office grump-- in this charming contemporary rom-com perfect for fans of Rachel Lynn Solomon and Sarah Adams.

Intern Holly King knows there are pros and cons to everything, including competing in her nonprofit’s big fundraising competition.
 
The Pros:

• Winning means a full-time job at the new office in Scotland
• Scotland is thousands of miles away from her toxic ex-boyfriend
• Her pitch includes PUPPIES! Lots of ‘em!

     The only con? Working with Jonathan Summers. But if Holly wants her calendar of hot, outdoorsy guys and their dogs to win against everyone else’s fundraising ideas, she’ll need Jonathan’s undeniable talent as a photographer…even if he is the office grump.

     When their collaboration accidentally gets off to a steamy start, Holly vows she won’t be distracted again. But as they scramble to shoot a year’s worth of hunks and pups in just a couple of weeks, the spark between Holly and Jonathan can’t be ignored.

     With Holly’s career dreams finally coming into focus, whatever’s developing with Jonathan makes her wonder—could she be missing the bigger picture?

Review:

Sunshine - Holly (check)
Grump - Jonathan (check)
Rom-Com (check)
Workplace Romance (check)
Animal - dogs (check)
Narration - Lauren Ezzo (check and check)

I loved this book and the vibes that Holly and Jonathan gave out. But no matter how good things got, there had to be a 3rd act break-up (which made me want to slap someone for not getting all the information first) and it resolved itself well. I didn't think that this person would pull their heads out of their... well, you know... long enough for there to be a HEA, but... it happened and I'll say, it was worth the wait.

This is the first (and not the last for sure) of the books I've read by Ms. Collins. I'm so glad that I was given the opportunity to listen to the wonderful voice of Lauren Ezzo by NetGalley and the publisher.

************ I received this in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own and have not been swayed by this fact. I NEVER charge for a review.

Audiobook Review: Manic Pixie Dream Earl by Jenny Holiday

Title: Manic Pixie Dream Earl

Author: Jenny Holiday 
 
Buy Link: CLICK HERE

Publisher's Insight:
 
An annual earls’ trip should provide an escape from a gentleman’s cares, but in this refreshingly modern Regency-era series, three handsome BFFs find that wherever they go, romantic complications follow . . .

When not writing, poet Edward Astley, Viscount Featherfinch, spends his time fending off the young ladies of the
ton—and some of its young men—and avoiding his cruel father. As heir to the earldom, Edward knows he must marry someday. Alas, he is already hopelessly in love with someone. Hopeless because not only is Miss Julianna Evans not a member of the aristocracy, she is employed. She is a magazine editor—the only one to publish his work. Also, in all their years of increasingly personal correspondence, they’ve never met.

Also, she thinks he’s a woman. Named Euphemia.

Julianna is baffled. How can her soul mate not want to meet? Could it be that Euphemia is not the simple country girl she claims to be? Perhaps she’s wealthy. After all, she’s never cashed any of the bank drafts Julianna has sent. Perhaps Euphemia simply doesn’t want rank to come between them. Well, no more. Having extracted the details of a trip Euphemia is planning, Julianna squanders her meager savings and surprises her at the scene.

He is very, very surprised. As is she.

Now the two will have to decide what is true, what is not, and whether the truest thing of all—love—just might be worth an earldom . . .

Review:

While I'm not a huge fan of historical fiction, I found the book Manic Pixie Dream Earl (still trying to figure out what the title has to do with anything) to be quite humorous in places, endearing in others, and full of enough spice to keep me reading.

I liked Edward's character with Julianna's character so much. But I found that their meeting would have been a little on the unbelievable side. Would they have known each other the second that they met without even opening their mouths? Hmmm.... I guess in this book they do, but I don't think I could have seen that happening in real life.

I loved the author's writing style, and the period language in their letter writing (I'm a pen pal, so anything with letter writing is awesome to me).

Harry Frost did an excellent job narrating the book, and I'd love to have him read to me again in the future. What do you mean he wasn't reading just to me? I beg to differ.

I'd love to thank NetGalley and the publisher for the opportunity to review this book.

************ I received this in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own and have not been swayed by this fact. I NEVER charge for a review.

Review: Happy Ever Afterlife by Melissa Whitney

Title: Happy Ever Afterlife

Author: Melissa Whitney
 
Buy Link: CLICK HERE

Publisher's Insight:
 
She doesn’t believe in ghosts—or love. He’s out to prove her wrong on both counts.
Nora Scott has no patience for the paranormal—or relationships. As a no-nonsense field producer for the Destination Network’s hit ghost-hunting show, she’s only sticking around long enough to climb the ladder to her real dream: producing a top-tier travel series. But when her latest assignment involves the notoriously haunted Putman House, things take an unexpected turn.
August Chandler has spent his life chasing spirits and spotlighting the supernatural. As the heartthrob host of Haunted Hideaway, he’s got fame, fans, and a relentless passion for uncovering the truth. Turns out the skeptic behind the camera, Nora, is the only thing he wants more than proof of the afterlife.
When Putman House reveals its tragic secret—a ghostly couple locked in a century-old feud—Nora and August trade ghost-hunting for matchmaking. But as sparks fly in the eerie halls of the inn, Nora starts to accept that love isn’t such a scary story after all.
Can a skeptic and a believer find their own happy ending? Or will the ghosts of their pasts haunt their future?
Happy Ever Afterlife is perfect for fans of opposites-attract romances, black cat-golden retriever dynamics, and the paranormal with a side of sizzling chemistry!

Review:

Everyone calls him Gus, but not Nora. She calls him by his given name, and he likes it. When he first met her in the elevator before her interview for his show, he was smitten. But the longer he knows her, the more he falls for her. When she tells him, there's no such things as ghosts (the thing that the show follows and searches for) he finds it endearing and vows to prove her wrong.

Nora was sure the smug guy from the elevator was vying for her potential position, but lo and behold he's not a candidate for hire, he's one of the Chandler brothers and her potential boss. And the longer she is around him, the more she falls for him. Did he just tell him there's no such things as ghosts? As long as she can prove him wrong she gets a free drink drink out of the bargain.

This adorable rom com shows what true talent and imagination can do for a book. Melissa Whitney is a master when it comes to witty banter and a steamy scene. (Wait until you see what happens with Derrick! Mwah ha ha! Not so button up now, are you?)

I'd like to thank the author, and Happily Booked PR for the opportunity to read this book.

************ I received this in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own and have not been swayed by this fact. I NEVER charge for a review.

Audiobook Review: One of the Boys by Victoria Zeller

Title: One of the Boys

Author: Victoria Zeller
 
Buy Link: CLICK HERE

Publisher's Insight:
 
Grace Woodhouse has left a lot behind. She used to have a great friend group, an amazing girlfriend, and a right foot set to earn her a Division I football scholarship—before she came out as trans. As senior year begins, Grace is struggling to find her place in early transition, new social circles, and a life without football. But when her skills as the best kicker in the state prove to be vital, her old teammates beg her to come out of retirement, dragging her back into a sport—into a way of life—she thought had turned its back on her forever. When a chance meeting cracks the door to college football back open, she has to decide how much of herself she's willing to give up for the game she loves.

Review:

Grace was not always Grace, to the outside world. But inside she always was. When she transistioned she decided that she was going to leave all the "boy" things behind and focus on who she is on the inside. But what she failed to realize is that she was a football player down to her very soul.

One of the Boys has got to be one of the most moving YA books I've read this year. Ms. Zeller brought to life the struggles that a young trans woman would need to deal with if she were a football player in today's world. The struggles that Grace goes through are real, raw, and well brought to page.

Jen Richards did an exceptional job reading this book and putting feeling behind the amazing words that Ms. Zeller put to page.

I'd like to thank the publisher and NetGalley for the opportunity to read this book.

************ I received this in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own and have not been swayed by this fact. I NEVER charge for a review.

Audiobook Review: Alluring Adventure by Dani Elias

Title: Alluring Adventure

Author: Dani Elias
 
Buy Link: CLICK HERE

Publisher's Insight:
 
Gliding over the mountains of Fellside sounds like a dream until it turns into a nightmare.

Keeley
Writing about the sleepy town of Fellside is a far cry from my usual thrilling escapades, but I can't help falling for its tranquil charm. And no, it has absolutely nothing to do with the incredibly attractive outdoor adventure expert—or so I keep telling myself. Joining him on one of his tours might just be the adventure my readers crave. Getting up close and personal with the hottie is an added perk. Though he makes it clear that dating me would break his rules, he can't hide the effect I have on him. The question is: how do I get him to admit it?

Oliver
"No dating clients, no dating clients," I chant to myself as the bubbly blogger wants to join one of my tours. She's funny, smart, and drop-dead gorgeous. But I've got to keep my hands to myself – her review is crucial for my business. All I need to do is give her a once-in-a-lifetime experience. My hormones just have to behave themselves.

Alluring Adventures is a small town, suspense romance.

This steamy romance is part of a series set in a shared world, but you don’t need to have read the others to enjoy it. Each story stands alone, though you might spot a few familiar faces along the way!

It contains adult content, please read the content warnings. The book is set in the north of England and written in British English.

Review:

Oliver runs a struggling adventure business and Keeley could be the one to save him. But will Oliver let his budding feelings interfere with his "no client" rule? Keeley and Oliver are a great pair and it was great to see them come together in such a wonderful way. I loved that Keeley was a take me as I am kinda gal. There was nothing that was going to stop her from having what she wanted, and Oliver was it.

Jack Hart was an amazing narrator. You could feel the emotions through his voice, and damn if that man can't read a sex scene. Whoooooo.....

I recommend this sexy rom-com to anyone who is interested in excellent character development, steam and wit.

I'd like to thank the author and Happlily Booked PR for the opportunity to read this book.

************ I received this in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own and have not been swayed by this fact. I NEVER charge for a review.

Audiobook Review: All the Perfect Days by Michael Thompson

Title: All the Perfect Days        

Author: Michael Thompson
 
Buy Link: CLICK HERE

Publisher's Insight:
 

"A stunning tale." —Booklist, STARRED review for How to Be Remembered

For readers of Rebecca Serle's In Five Years and Nikki Erlick's The Measure, Michael Thompson's romantic magical realism will have you smiling, laughing, crying, and questioning: If you knew how long your loved ones would live, would you tell them?

Dr Charlie Knight fears life is passing him by. He's in his late thirties, and treading water as a family doctor in the same small town he grew up in.

Just as he's planning his escape, something changes. He develops a gift, an extraordinary insight for any doctor: a sense of exactly how many days his patients have left to live. 

But in a country town like Marwick, his patients are his friends. His own family. The people he grew up with, and the girl he still loves.

And Charlie discovers this gift may not be a gift at all.

Review:

This book had a very unique premise. I was not expecting this hometown doctor to be able to tell when a person is going to die. Is it a gift that he's able to help the people that come to him lead a better and more full life, or is it a curse to know something that is deep about people you know and care about?

The emotion that Michael Thompson was able to portray in our MMC, Charlie's character, was amazing. His ability to show depth and heartbreak at the level he did... masterful.

Ryan Ennis did a great job bringing Charlie and the rest of the cast to life through his voice. Thank you for that.

I'd also like to thank the publisher and NetGalley for the opportunity to read this book.

************ I received this in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own and have not been swayed by this fact. I NEVER charge for a review.

Audiobook Review: Wolves Always Bite by Lori Ames

Wolves Always Bite by Lori Ames
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

I couldn't come up with much that I liked in this book. It was cheesy and seemed to just get cheesier the longer I read it.

I will say, though, that the wolf shifter, Adrian, was well developed, but Jeremy was a giant cheese ball. While I think the author was trying to make this a rom com, it didn't come across as that for me.

Kirt Graves did a great job of bringing all the characters to life.

I'd like to thank NetGalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read this book.

View all my reviews

Audiobook Review: His Royal Bride Replacement by Lynne Graham

Title: His Royal Bride Replacement

Author: Lynne Graham
 
Buy Link: CLICK HERE

Publisher's Insight:
 
His Royal Bride Replacement is a royal, stand-in bride, marriage of convenience romance from USA TODAY bestselling author Lynne Graham.

A life-changing ring…
from His Highness!

Crown Prince Alessio drowns out each exploit with outrageous behavior! Even his wedding is hitting the headlines for all the wrong reasons—his reputation-repairing fiancée has pulled out! Leaving him urgently seeking a replacement bride. Enter Rosalia Castelli…

Innocent Rosy is merely a palace art restorer. How can she even think of becoming Sedovia’s queen? Yet to save her family from financial peril, she must accept Alessio’s shock proposal. And as she spends more time with her husband, she begins to catch glimpses of the man beneath the rebellious facade…and to crave his touch!

From Harlequin Presents: Escape to exotic locations where passion knows no bounds.

Review:

I wasn't sure if I'd be into royal escapades, but this quick read/listen proved me wrong. The characters are endearing, but I found the story to be lacking in oomph. It just seemed to rush through everything so quickly that I was left wanting more, and not it a good way.

I'm not sure if I would want to read another book by this author in fear that all of her books are this brief. I did however enjoy Melanie Crawley's narration of this book. She did a great job.

I'd like to thank the publisher and NetGalley for the opportunity to read this book.

************ I received this in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own and have not been swayed by this fact. I NEVER charge for a review.

Audiobook Review: Life Derailed by Beth Merlin and Danielle Modafferi

Life Derailed by Beth Merlin
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This book told you a story about how AI could affect us, even when we don't realize it. It's a story of a widow wanting to find her way back into her life and is ready to let someone in again. But when she finds out what's behind her success story in potential online dating, she's hurt.

I love how well the authors brought in the current craze of AI and showed us what it could eventually be, if we allow it. The characters are great. I loved the banter, and the hope showed throughout.

The narrator Caroline Hewitt did a great job with this book. I'd love to listen to more books read by her.

I'd like to thank the publisher and NetGalley for the opportunity to review this book.

View all my reviews

Audiobook Review: What Not to Do on Vacation by Rachel Magee

What Not to Do on Vacation: A Novel by Rachel Magee
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

While there are only 3 sisters to follow on this journey, at the beginning of the book, I had a heck of a time trying to separate them and keep the facts straight. But once I did, the book flowed, and the characters came to life for me and became friends. I hated seeing any of them in pain, and I was so happy to see that love won out in the end. (What's a rom-com without a happy ending?)

Karissa Vacker, the narrator, did a great job keeping each voice separate and giving us characters we could tell apart and fall in love with.

I'd like to thank the publisher and NetGalley for the opportunity to review this book.

View all my reviews

Review: Late to Love by Valerie Pepper

Title: Late to Love

Author: Valerie Pepper
 
Buy Link: CLICK HERE

Publisher's Insight:
 

She’s a woman with a tool belt and a dream. He’s the grumpy bartender who falls head over heels.

Darcy Belle is full of contradictions. At twenty-four, she’s the beach town’s best carpenter with plans to launch her own custom furniture store online. The only thing she loves more than furniture is irritating the grumpy bartender at her weekly all-female bowling team practice. And when said grump agrees to let her flex her skills by renovating his loft? Life just took a turn for joy, folks.

Anthony Hall has lived a life of consistency and hard work. Owner and bartender at Hall’s Balls, he’s every bit the town grump people think he is. It’s not until Darcy Belle barrels into his life at full tilt, all luscious curves with power tools to boot, that he understands he’s got more to give. A lot more.

Forced to see each other almost daily, Darcy and Anthony slowly realize there’s more to their arguments than meet the eye, despite their seventeen-year age difference. But age is just a number, until years of hurt reveal that Darcy isn’t the one who needs to grow up.

Late to Love is an age gap grumpy-sunshine romcom where he falls first with a guaranteed happily ever after.

Review:

As a woman who likes a man who is "more mature" this age gap romance really spoke to me. True to form, Ms. Pepper has given us characters who are both flawed and redeemable all in the same breath. I love that Darcy is a capable woman who can do more and fix more than most men. Proof positive that not all women NEED a man. But knowing Darcy needs what Anthony has to offer makes her just that much more loveable.

My favorite line of the book was: Considering my age begins with the number four, I think it's a safe bet that I should keep my eyes the hell off her t*ts.

I laughed quite a bit at that. This book kept me laughing and cheering on the characters. Another hit for Valerie Pepper! Kudos. And I'd like to thank the author for the great recommendation for music. Noah Kahan is great.

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I received this in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own and have not been swayed by this fact. I NEVER charge for a review.

Audiobook Review: Friends With Benefits by Marisa Kanter

Title: Friends With Benefits

Author: Marisa Kanter
 
Buy Link: CLICK HERE

Publisher's Insight:
 
Lifelong best friends say 'I do' to a marriage of convenience, trading vows for a financial safety net and benefits. Perfect for fans of Emily Henry and Katherine Center.

Evie Bloom pays attention to the details. Her very job depends on it—as an aspiring Foley artist, she’s responsible for every crisp footstep, smacking kiss, and distinct sound in film and television. So when she’s selected for a fellowship opportunity that would make all her career dreams come true, she’s quick to spot the catch: there are no health benefits, and for someone with a chronic illness, that’s a non-starter.

Theo Cohen is an elementary school teacher who can't afford to live on his own in LA, and is facing eviction after his roommates couple up and move out of their rent-controlled apartment. But there is one loophole in his lease: each tenant must meet an income threshold, unless the tenants are married.

For Theo, the answer is obvious. Marry Evie, his best friend since forever. It’s not as if they don’t spend all their free time together anyways. Not only will Theo be able to keep his apartment, but Evie can be added to his insurance plan so she can accept her dream fellowship. It’s such a logical, practical solution. Never mind that Evie doesn’t really want to be married—not to Theo, not to anyone—ever. Or the small, complicating fact that Theo has always been a little bit in love with Evie.

But it doesn’t have to be a big deal. Marriage. It will just give them space to breathe, and much-needed relief from the daily financial stress. It won’t change anything.

It’s . . . going to change everything.

Review:

Can you trust yourself to make the best decisions when you're a little bit in love with your best friend? Probably not! But when your worst decision turns out to be the best decision for everyone in the long run... even if they don't know it... can it still be considered bad?

I loved the chronic illness rep in this book. The author did an exceptional job portraying it and its struggles. Ms. Kanter did a great job showing emotion and love in this book as well.

I've never read a book in which the character was a Foley artist, so this too was a real treat learning about the job and how it worked. I'm thankful the author put so much work into the research into this book.

I enjoyed listening to Gail Shalan and GM Hakim read this book. It felt like friends reading to me.

I'd like to thank the publisher and NetGalley for the opportunity to read this book.

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I received this in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own and have not been swayed by this fact. I NEVER charge for a review.

Audiobook Review: Not So Fast by Karen Booth

Title: Not So Fast    

Author: Karen Booth
 
Buy Link: CLICK HERE

Publisher's Insight:
 
“Of the recent crop of Formula 1 romances, this one’s way out in front.”  -- Publishers Weekly Starred Review

When the curves are this dangerous, only a race car driver will do… A sizzling, high-octane Formula One rom-com you can read in one sitting!

Mia Neal is a champion overthinker. Find something, fixate on it and spiral down. Fortunately, she puts that energy to good use: in a podcast about Formula One, her favorite sport in the world. There’s nothing about racing Mia doesn’t adore. The speed. The drivers. The fierce competition. The single-minded ambition. Ironic for a woman who’s changed careers more times than she can count.

Only now, her salty takes on gorgeous Brit driver Xander Bishop have gone viral, and the podcast feels more and more like what she’s meant to do… Then Xander’s teammate invites her to the Miami Grand Prix to see F1 up close—and get in Xander’s head. He’s not exactly delighted at the shade she’s been throwing his way.

It should be all-out war. Instead, Mia and Xander are stunned by the sudden crackle of…something sexual arcing between them. It’s irresistible, unbelievably hot—and Mia’s warning flags are waving. Because this reckless attraction is coming at Mia all too fast…

Review:

While sports romances have not always been at the top of my TBR pile (unless it's hockey), this book has put Formula One books on my radar. (Or perhaps just books by Karen Booth?) So, for all of you who have the need for speed, it's time to pick up Not So Fast. Karen shows us that she's quite capable of crossing the finish line!

My only problem with the book was the multiple POV switches in the same chapter (but it didn't bother me enough for me to lower the rating on the book). While this may be denoted by scene/POV change graphics in the paperback/ebook, there is no such thing in the audiobook.

Talon David did a great job with the voices and narration in this book.

I'd like to thank the publisher and NetGalley for the opportunity to read this book.

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I received this in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own and have not been swayed by this fact. I NEVER charge for a review.