📚🎧 Tell Me Lies by Hannah Gray 🎧🏒
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (4/5)

If you’re into hockey romance, single dad vibes, and slow burn tension that seriously delivers—stop what you’re doing and grab this book! Or better yet, the audiobook. Trust me, the narration had me hooked from start to finish. 🎙️🔥

We’ve got Logan, an NHL star with the weight of the world on his shoulders as he navigates being a single father while juggling his career, and Maci, the mysterious, runaway author who’s trying to outrun her past. Add in a deal to help her write “spicy” scenes for her hockey romance novel, and you’ve got a recipe for pure chaos, heartfelt moments, and off the charts chemistry. 🏒❤️

Logan’s dynamic with his daughter is pure gold—funny, sweet, and so real. And Maci? She’s a fighter, even when she’s breaking. Their banter is flirty, fun, and when it turns steamy, OH. MY. GOD. Someone pass me a fan, because the scenes where Logan helps Maci with her “research” are EVERYTHING. 😏📖🔥

But what makes this book so much more than a steamy sports romance is the emotional punch. Maci’s secret hits hard, and the way it unravels adds depth to the story. My heart broke for her, but I couldn’t help cheering for her and Logan to figure it out. 🥹💔

Perfect for fans of small emotional twists, hilarious moments, and hockey hunks with soft hearts. Definitely one for your TBR—and trust me, the audiobook will hit differently. 🎧✨

Thank you to NetGalley, Hannah Gray, and Dreamscape Media for the ALC of this book. 

🌟 Riding The High by Paisley Hope 🌟

It's finally Cole and Ginger's (and Mabel's) book! If you love the accidental Vegas marriage trope mixed with a slow burn "let's stay married because it's fake... but wait, is it?" storyline, Riding The High is a book that will have you hooked from the first page! Set against the charming backdrop of the Silver Pines Ranch, this third installment delivers steamy chemistry, small town vibes, and a heartfelt exploration of love, family, and identity. Hot cowboys, cute kids, meddling families, the inevitable will they won't they tug of war? Oh, sign me up.

💍 Ginger and Cole's drunken Vegas adventure kicks off with a marriage that neither of them planned nor remembers clearly. But instead of rushing to annul their vows, they strike a deal: stay married for ninety days. Ginger needs to protect her congressman father's reelection campaign, while Cole needs to keep his new job as the town's sheriff and stay squeaky clean. As Ginger moves into Cole's world—becoming a summer nanny for his adorable daughter—their "fake marriage" starts feeling dangerously real. The push and pull between their sense of duty and undeniable attraction keeps the tension sizzling! Throw in the fact that they have been friends forever but have always fought their feelings, this was my favorite in the Silver Pines Ranch series!

Cole and Ginger's transition from friends to accidental spouses is filled with electric moments that leap off the page. Their dynamic is equal parts playful, emotional, and steamy—think truth or dare with consequences!

Can we talk about Cole? A responsible, swoony single dad with a protective streak? YES, PLEASE. His softer side, especially with his daughter, adds depth to his character, making him feel like the perfect blend of alpha hero and devoted family man. Ginger's arc is fantastic. She seems like the congressman's perfect daughter, bound by expectations, but evolves into someone who embraces her wild side and fights for what she truly wants, with the help of both Cole and Mabel. Her adventurous spirit makes her so relatable! I love the small town setting and the meddling family members who just KNOW these two belong together.

Paisley Hope perfectly captures that intoxicating mix of humor, spice, and heart with Riding The High. If you're into tropes like accidental marriage, fake to real romance, friends to lovers, and single dad/nanny, this book has your name written all over it. The Silver Pines Ranch series continues to deliver the perfect mix of swoon and small town sweetness, and this one is a must read for romance lovers. 

Perfect for readers who love spicy western romances, small town settings, accidental marriages with all the feels, and irresistible single dads and the nanny trope too!

Are you ready to see if Cole and Ginger's wild Vegas mistake might just lead to forever? Well, prepare to ride the emotional highs! 😉🌟

Thank you to NetGalley, Paisley Hope, and Dell for the eARC of this book. 

✨ The Big Game by Cassie Connor ✨

Rating: ⭐⭐⭐/5
Spice Level: 🌶️🌶️🌶️

If you're looking for a light, spicy, sports rom com that feels like Miss Congeniality meets the Super Bowl, this one delivers exactly that! With a fun mix of forced proximity, fake dating, and a second chance romance, it’s a touchdown for trope lovers. The premise is super cute! NFL security guard and a star quarterback forced together under high-stakes pressure? Sign me up! The spice is undeniably there, and if you’re into swoony athletes and sassy heroines, you’ll find some fun banter and chemistry to enjoy. However, the connection between Lily and Tate felt shallow, leaning heavily on physical attraction rather than emotional depth. Their back and forth dynamic was more immature squabble than tension filled banter, which made them a little annoying at times. I wanted more heart in their second chance story. The emotional stakes felt low when they could’ve been so much higher. Overall, The Big Game is a spicy and entertaining read that doesn’t take itself too seriously. While it won’t top my sports romance list, it’s a fun pick for a quick, tropey escape with a side of NFL drama. Perfect for fans of Emily Henry and Tessa Bailey who don’t mind characters that fumble a bit before finding their footing. 

Thank you to NetGalley, Cassie Connor, and One More Chapter for the eARC of this book. 

🎧✨Quicksilver by Callie Hart✨🎧

STOP WHAT YOU’RE DOING. If you’re a romantasy lover, Quicksilver is about to become your new obsession! I just finished the audiobook, and let me tell you—it’s EVERYTHING.

A badass pickpocket FMC with secret powers, a morally gray Fae warrior named Kingfisher who’s equal parts brooding and dangerous, and a slow burn, enemies to lovers tension so intense you’ll be screaming into your headphones? Oh, and did I mention Carrion, the snarkiest, most enigmatic side character ever?! I’m in love.

This story is a whirlwind of deadly deserts, icy Fae kingdoms, and centuries old secrets. Saeris Fane is such a compelling lead—resourceful, flawed, and fierce. And Kingfisher? Let’s just say Death has NEVER looked this good. Their dynamic is all bickering, betrayal, and reluctant trust, with sparks flying every time they’re in the same room (or snow covered battlefield).

Callie Hart’s writing is vivid and cinematic, making the world of Quicksilver come alive. The action? Jaw dropping. The romance? Sweet, spicy, and EVERYTHING. The twists? I’m still picking my jaw up off the floor.

If you loved ACOTAR or Fourth Wing, Quicksilver is your next must read. Trust me, the audiobook adds another layer with its incredible narration—it’s an immersive, edge of your seat experience. The audiobook is a MUST!

Do yourself a favor and dive into this epic romantasy. And if you’re anything like me, you’ll be counting down the days until the next book. KINGFISHER FOREVER. 🖤🗡️ 

Gia De Cadenet has truly outdone herself with Give Me a Shot! This heartfelt contemporary romance combines emotional depth, unique characters, and a refreshing setting to deliver a story that feels both genuine and deeply resonant.

One of the standout aspects of this book is Jessica Anderson, a character unlike any I’ve seen in romance. As a Highly Sensitive Person (HSP), Jess’s experience navigating the world resonated with me in such a personal way. Seeing her emotions and reactions portrayed so thoughtfully was not only refreshing but also deeply validating. De Cadenet handles Jess’s sensitivity with care and authenticity, making her journey one of healing, strength, and self-discovery.

Mo Sarda is the perfect counterpart to Jess. Guarded yet kind, he’s a man of quiet strength with a deep love for his family and a knack for keeping his life drama free. Watching Mo’s walls come down as he opens up to Jess is so satisfying, and their chemistry crackles from the very first encounter. Their romance is both sweet and spicy, with a perfect blend of tender moments and undeniable heat.

I also loved how De Cadenet incorporated heavy topics like grief, healing, and emotional vulnerability into the story. These themes are handled with such grace and balance, never overshadowing the romance but instead enhancing it. The emotions are raw and real, and they give the love story between Jess and Mo a sense of depth and authenticity that makes it truly unforgettable.

And let’s talk about the archery! Featuring a sport like archery—paired with Mo’s blacksmithing—makes this book stand out in the contemporary romance genre. The Folk School setting and the Renaissance Faire fundraiser added so much charm and creativity to the story. It’s rare to see hobbies like these showcased in romance, and it was such a treat to read about them.

Overall, Give Me a Shot is a beautiful, layered romance that perfectly balances heartfelt emotion, personal growth, and a love story you’ll be rooting for from the start. It’s Gia De Cadenet’s best work yet, and I highly recommend it to anyone looking for a romance with depth, uniqueness, and characters that will stay with you long after you turn the final page. It's a must read!

Thank you to NetGalley, Gia De Cadenet, and Dell for the eARC of this book. 

Cara Bastone has done it again! If you loved Ready or Not, prepare to fall head over heels for Promise Me Sunshine. This heartwarming, slow burn romance is a masterclass in balancing grief, healing, and unexpected love.

Lenny’s journey is raw, emotional, and utterly relatable. Grief has left her adrift, and her struggle to navigate life after the devastating loss of her best friend is portrayed with such authenticity that you can’t help but root for her. Bastone captures the complexities of mourning and survival beautifully, reminding us that it’s okay to not be okay.

And then there’s Miles—grumpy, guarded, and oh so lovable. I absolutely LOVE him! Beneath his prickly exterior is a man who understands loss in a way few people do. His dynamic with Lenny is equal parts frustrating, tender, and deeply moving. Their connection is built on late night ferry rides, unspoken truths, and moments so poignant they’ll have you clutching the pages of this book. Miles is more than just a love interest; he’s the steady force Lenny didn’t know she needed, and their chemistry is electric.

Reese and Ainsley add so much heart and charm to the story. Ainsley’s precociousness and Reese’s struggles as a single mom bring layers of warmth and realism. The balance of family, friendship, and romance creates a rich, vibrant world you won’t want to leave.

The “live again” list is the perfect framework for this story of growth and second chances. Watching Lenny and Miles help each other tackle their emotional hurdles is as cathartic as it is uplifting. Bastone’s writing is filled with humor, heartache, and hope, making Promise Me Sunshine an unforgettable read.

If you’re a fan of slow burn romance that doesn’t shy away from the hard stuff but still leaves you feeling light and hopeful, this book is for you. Lenny and Miles’ journey is one you’ll want to revisit again and again. Five stars aren’t enough to capture how much I adored this book!

Promise Me Sunshine is everything I hoped for and more, and Miles is officially one of my favorite grumpy book men ever!

Thank you to NetGalley, Cara Bastone, and The Dial Press for the eARC of this book. 

Unfortunately, Collision by Carrie Leighton didn’t live up to my expectations. I found it disappointing and had to push through to finish it. While the premise promised a story filled with passion, torment, and emotional intensity, the execution left much to be desired.

The main characters, Vanessa and Thomas, failed to resonate with me. Their personalities felt flat, their actions inconsistent, and their relationship lacked the depth needed to draw me in. Despite the potential for an intriguing dynamic between Vanessa’s romantic idealism and Thomas’s guarded nature, their connection felt forced rather than organic.

One of the biggest letdowns was the abrupt ending. After wading through a story that struggled to maintain momentum, the lack of closure felt like a slap in the face. The unresolved storylines and unanswered questions left me feeling unsatisfied and frustrated.

While I appreciated the themes of passion, personal struggle, and emotional vulnerability, the writing didn’t quite deliver on the promise of a compelling narrative. If you’re someone who values strong character development and a satisfying conclusion, this book might leave you disappointed.

Collision had its moments of potential, but ultimately, it didn’t strike the chord I was hoping for.

Thank you to NetGalley, Carrie Leighton, and Sourcebooks Casablanca for the eARC of this book. 

If you're looking for a book that feels like a tropical cocktail—sweet, tangy, and with just enough punch to leave you smiling— this is the perfect pick!  

Katie Vaughn is my new spirit animal. Who among us hasn’t exaggerated a skill or two on a resume? But Katie takes it to Olympic levels by pretending she can swim. (Spoiler: She cannot. Like, *at all.*) And where does she end up? Filming a profile on a Coast Guard rescue swimmer. Enter Tom "Hutch" Hutcheson, who is not just ridiculously good looking but also ridiculously complicated, which makes him even more irresistible.  

Throw in Katie’s charmingly awkward dynamic with Cole (Hutch’s brother and her coworker), a giant rescue dog that’s just as extra as the rest of the cast, and Aunt Rue—who might be the true MVP of this story—and you’ve got a recipe for hijinks that will have you laughing into your drink.  

The setting of Key West shines as bright as the romance, with sunsets, conga lines, and hurricanes adding to the drama. Plus, there’s something hilariously relatable about Katie floundering through swim lessons and trying to keep her head (and lies) above water.  

Yes, there’s tension, miscommunication, and enough sparks between Katie and Hutch to light up the Florida coastline, but what really makes this book shine is its heart. Katherine Center has a way of making you laugh and swoon while sneaking in a few life lessons about courage, truth, and learning to love—warts, fears, and all.  

So, grab a beach chair, a fruity drink, and prepare for a joyride of stolen kisses, larger than life personalities, and a love story that’s perfectly imperfect. The Love Haters is a feel good rom com that will leave you hating how fast you read it.

Thank you to NetGalley, Katherine Center, and St. Martin's Press for the eARC of this book. 

🌶️🔥 Single mom + second chance + small town romance = my heart in shambles! 🥹

Rowan "King" Kingsley is the ultimate regretful bad boy, and when Violette Taylor walks back into his life—his best friend’s sister AND the woman whose heart he shattered—I was hooked. Their chemistry? Electric. Their past? Painful. Their reunion? The very definition of angst.

Violette is such a strong FMC—a burn unit nurse juggling single motherhood while trying to protect her heart from the man who left her behind. But Rowan isn’t just the career hotshot she remembers; he’s got layers, secrets, and so much love left for her. 🖤 Their slow burning journey toward healing and love had me turning pages like a madwoman.

And don’t even get me started on the small town vibes! The pub scenes, the close knit community, and the way Rowan fights to prove himself worthy of Violette, and Hollie too, all felt so real. I cried, I swooned, and I blushed because, wow, the spice in this book?! 🌶️🔥 Tastefully done but absolutely on fire.

If you’re a sucker for:
✨ Second chances
✨ A grumpy ex softie MMC with a heart of gold
✨ A strong, relatable FMC with walls up
✨ Emotional and spicy scenes

Then Protect by Paisley Hope is the book for you. Prepare to laugh, cry, and fall hard for Rowan and Violette’s story. 🖤 

Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Spice Level: 🌶️🌶️🌶️
Tropes: Second Chance, Small Town, Brother’s Best Friend, Single Parent, Forced Proximity

✨ The Path to Loving Him by Meghan Quinn ✨

🔥 Tropes: Forced proximity, single dad, enemies to lovers, small town romance
😅 Vibes: Laugh out loud humor, sizzling chemistry, slow burn tension
💖 Steam Level: High—prepare yourself for Ryland Rowley’s mouth!

Meghan Quinn delivers an absolute knockout with this spicy, hilarious romantic comedy! Picture this: you’re sulking in a small town bar after bombing a job interview, only to find yourself in a one night stand with a man who feels like he’s straight out of your wildest dreams. Except the next morning, you find out he’s your new boss. Yikes, right?

Our leading lady is smart, feisty, and impossible not to root for as she navigates life as the assistant baseball coach in Almond Bay—while also renting an apartment above Ryland’s garage. Their banter? Chef’s kiss. Their chemistry? Off the charts. And Ryland? Don’t even get me started—he’s the perfect blend of broody and sweet, especially with his single dad moments that melt your heart. 🥹

Between hilarious bathroom mishaps (shower drama, anyone?) and tension filled kitchen encounters, this story hits all the right beats. It’s packed with hilarious moments, swoony romance, and that signature Meghan Quinn charm. And let’s not forget the smallctown vibes that make Almond Bay feel like the kind of place you’d want to visit—and maybe never leave.

If you love steamy, feel good romantic comedies with plenty of heart, The Path to Loving Him is a home run. ⚾️ Guaranteed to leave you smiling, swooning, and maybe fanning yourself a little, this one is a mustcread for romccom fans!

📚 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (5/5)