Mia Sheridan’s The Fix is a dark romantic suspense novel that attempts to explore trauma, justice, and the complexities of love and survival. At its core, it’s a story about second chances, both in love and in life, but it also dives deep into intense, triggering subject matter without warning, which significantly impacted my reading experience. 

The story begins with a horrifying home invasion that shapes the protagonist Cami’s entire life. This portion of the book is especially difficult to read, not just due to its content, but because of how much of the opening it occupies. I strongly believe that including content warnings would have been respectful and appropriate here, especially given the genre labeling (romance and general fiction) and vague synopsis, which do not hint at the level of violence and trauma depicted. As a rape survivor, I truly wish I had known what I was reading beforehand because it was HEAVY, and I do not think it is fair to not warn your audience about this, as some people might need to avoid it. It is INTENSE and is a lot, so I feel like adding a warning is necessary. 

Once the story shifts to the present, I found myself more engaged. Cami, now running a butterfly farm and still living in the shadow of her past, receives a mysterious phone call that drags her back into the nightmare. Teaming up with Rex, a former classmate whose life was also affected by the events 11 years ago, the pair work to save a kidnapped boy and, in many ways, themselves. The relationship between Cami and Rex was a strong point for me. Their connection felt natural and earned, and I appreciated the slow burn and emotional depth. Rex’s loyalty and resilience were particularly compelling.

That said, I struggled with the mystery/thriller aspect of the plot. It becomes increasingly convoluted and detracts from the more meaningful, emotional core of the novel. Personally, I think this would have been a stronger book if it focused more on Cami’s healing, but I did enjoy it nonetheless and love anything Mia Sheridan writes. 

Thank you to NetGalley, Mia Sheridan, and Montlake for the eARC of this book. 

Back in the Saddle was such a fun surprise! If you're like me and in your cowboy romance era, this one totally hits the spot. Caroline, a doctor starting over in small town Oklahoma, and Hunter, the hot cowboy with a guarded heart, have instant chemistry that pulls you in from the beginning. You can feel the tension between them, but what I really liked was how they each brought their own emotional baggage into the mix because it gave their connection depth.

The story has a great balance of steamy moments (yes, it definitely gets spicy 🔥), sweet interactions, and just the right touch of drama without going overboard. It’s one of those feel good reads that’s easy to follow and leaves you smiling. Plus, horses. That’s always a win.

If you’re a fan of Elsie Silver or Lyla Sage, you’ll definitely want to give this one a go. It’s a little lighter, more heartwarming than angsty, and just perfect for when you want a story about second chances, healing, and cowboy charm.

Would absolutely read more from Maggie Eckersley!

Thank you to NetGalley, Maggie Eckersley, and Avon for the eARC of this book. 

2.5–3 Stars — More Missed Potential Than Criminal Minds Magic

Aftermath promises a thrilling, Criminal Minds style romantic suspense with a grumpy x sunshine pairing, but unfortunately, it never quite delivers on its full potential. Marketed for fans of Lights Out by Navessa Allen and Spencer Reid coded characters, I went in expecting a dark, twisty, emotionally charged story with a compelling FBI lead. What I got instead was a surface level suspense and a romance that felt underdeveloped.

The premise had potential: a small town museum historian obsessed with a cold case teaming up with a disgraced FBI agent hunting a serial killer? It sounded SO goof and reminded me of my queen, Catherine Cowles; she writes romantic suspense and it is always stellar. But while the setup was solid, the execution lacked depth. Agent Winston Beck is supposedly brilliant (IQ wise), but that never truly gets shown on the page. It’s told to us repeatedly, but if you are looking for that cerebral, Spencer Reid like charm and insight, you will be left wanting. The character traits felt more like a checkbox than a personality.

The suspense plot was predictable, with few surprises, and the romantic chemistry between Lenny and Stone lacked spark. Their connection seemed more convenient than believable. If you're familiar with Catherine Cowles' work (and she is the queen of romantic suspense), you'll likely feel this is a watered down version. It's missing the emotional punch and tight, immersive writing Cowles consistently delivers. 

There's also the matter of editing. This book desperately needs another proofreading pass. Grammatical errors and typos were distracting and pulled me out of the story often enough to take away from the overall experience.

If you're looking for a light suspense read with a tattooed FBI agent and small town charm, you might still enjoy Aftermath. But if you’re expecting Criminal Minds grit, deep psychological insight, or anything resembling a dark romance, this isn't it.

Thank you to M.K. Ahearn for the eARC of this book. 

Drive Me Crazy is one of many Formula 1 romances I’ve picked up this year, and it’s clear the sport is having a well deserved moment in the genre. The premise is immediately compelling: a female lead in a leadership role (yes, please!) and a second chance romance built on shared history between Chloe and Matt.

The book kicks off strong. Chloe is a newly appointed team principal for a struggling F1 team, and her world is turned upside down when her childhood crush turned superstar driver, Matt, is traded to her team. Their chemistry is undeniable and the F1 setting feels authentic. Lizzy Dent clearly knows and loves the sport, and that passion shines through.

That said, while the start had me hooked, the story lost some steam midway through. The romance leaned heavily on physical tension, but lacked the deeper emotional development I was hoping for. Chloe’s imposter syndrome made sense given the male dominated setting, but sometimes felt overdone, making her seem inconsistent with her experience in the industry. And the third act conflict? A bit underwhelming, with a resolution that wrapped up too quickly and neatly for my taste.

Still, Drive Me Crazy is a fun, fast paced read that’s perfect for a palate cleanser, a quick fun read, or if you are a fan of the sport and want to feel at home. It doesn’t break new ground, but it’s enjoyable for what it is, especially for F1 fans looking for a light romance set in the paddock.

Thank you to NetGalley, Lizzy Dent, and the publisher for the eARC of this book. 

Bed and Breakup was a fun, emotional, and refreshing change of pace from my usual reads, and I enjoyed every second of it.

This story has all the best romance tropes wrapped up in one chaotic, heartfelt, and utterly entertaining package: forced proximity, enemies to lovers, second chance romance, and even a warm, cozy dose of found family.

Watching Molly and Robin navigate their messy past, renovate a dilapidated inn, and slowly unravel all the complicated threads between them was a joy. Their dynamic was fiery, frustrating, and ultimately satisfying in the best way.

I also loved the queer representation and the unique setting of Eureka Springs, Arkansas, which I now kind of want to visit! The small town charm, quirky side characters, and themes of personal growth and healing added so much depth to the story without ever weighing it down.

This book made me laugh, tugged at my heart, and reminded me why I love second chance romances so much. It’s messy, tender, and brimming with personality. If you are looking for something sweet with a bit of spice and plenty of emotional payoff, this one is for you.

Thank you to NetGalley, the publisher, and Susie Dumond for the opportunity to read this ARC. 

Finding Mr. July was such a fun, warm, and surprisingly emotional read. Anna E. Collins delivers a workplace romance that has some of my favorite tropes and themes: grumpy/sunshine dynamic, reluctant coworkers turned late night tequila confidants, and a calendar full of hot guys and cute dogs? Say less.

Holly is thirty four, fresh out of a toxic relationship and an exhausting legal career. She’s starting over as an unpaid intern at a nonprofit and vying for a life changing position in Scotland. She’s smart, ambitious, and delightfully chaotic. Enter Jonathan, who is her broody, closed off coworker that gets reluctantly paired with Holly to create a fundraiser for their office competition. He’s grumpy. He’s guarded. He’s also extremely attractive. And did I mention he’s good with dogs?

Their banter is hilarious and really works for them as characters, their partnership messy but effective, and one tequila fueled night leaves them questioning whether something more happened between them. As they hustle toward the deadline, sparks fly, walls come down, and the calendar isn’t the only thing heating up.

I loved the emotional depth. Both characters in this book are carrying baggage, but the way they challenge and support each other was beautiful. Plus, the side plot with Holly’s BFF and her widowed brother adds just the right amount of drama and sweetness (I needed that slow burn resolved!).

Read if you enjoy:
✨ Workplace romance
✨ Grumpy x sunshine
✨ Men who love dogs
✨ Thirty something characters starting fresh
✨ Slow burn with great payoff

Thank you to NetGalley and Forever for the eARC of this book.

2.5 stars – I really wanted to like this more.

I was hopeful for more based on the synopsis; this had the potential to be a gripping, twisty thriller with a unique game style premise in Circus, but unfortunately it just didn’t deliver for me. The game itself sounded intriguing, but the story lacked the excitement and tension I was expecting. I kept waiting for something big to happen... and it never really did.

The pacing felt flat, and while there were a couple of twists toward the end that gave the story some movement, it wasn’t enough to redeem the slow build up. I also struggled to connect with the characters. They felt underdeveloped, and I found their personalities and motivations hard to believe, especially considering their prestigious Harvard backgrounds and long standing friendships. That emotional core never truly landed, which made the stakes feel pretty low.

The ending left me unsatisfied as well. I was hoping for something more dramatic or meaningful, and instead it just kind of fizzled out. Overall, I had high hopes for this one, but it ended up being a disappointing read.

Thank you to NetGalley, Alissa Lee, and Atria Books for the eARC of this book.

Pitch For Me by Swati M.H.
Haircuts and Heartthrobs, Book 2 ✂️⚾️

First of all, I LOVE all the representation in this book. Sarina with her vitiligo, Pearl being deaf, and Rome's determination to learn ASL just so he could talk to her? I was SOBBING. It was such a beautiful, heartwarming thread that ran throughout the story and added so much depth.

We've all read single mom or single dad books, but BOTH? I LOVE the double single parent trope and we don't see that nearly enough. Watching Troy and Sarina come together, not just as a couple but as a blended family, was everything. The connection between the four of them was so natural, so perfect… I could honestly go on forever about the sweet, hilarious, and swoony moments between Troy/Sarina, Rome/Sarina, Troy/Pearl, and all four of them as this chaotic, loving unit.

Let’s talk about the group chats. Hands down, my favorite fictional chats of all time. The Six Schlongs Hen Party is completely unhinged in the best way, and Snatch? ICONIC. The running joke of blaming Troy for everything? GOLD. 👏

And can we please just give it up for Troy Trojan himself? He is the greenest of green flags. I fell hard. He’s patient, grounded, an amazing father, a loyal partner, and he worships the ground Sarina walks on. The man was GONE FOR HER from the jump and played the long game to perfection. Watching them drop their walls and be fully themselves was pure magic. Swati really has a way with writing because I was so obsessed with them and loved their journey.

Honestly? This might've bumped Piper and Dev off the top tier for me (which I didn't think was possible!). It's THAT good.

The spice? Oh, she was SPICING today. And there’s a generous helping of it too. No complaints here. That man LOVED his breakfast… or dessert, depending on the time of day. 

Swati M.H. once again balances laugh out loud humor, heartfelt family dynamics, and emotional growth like a pro. You’ll swoon, you’ll tear up, and you’ll be desperate for more.

Just read it. 5 stars. No notes.
Now where do I find myself a Troy Trojan? 

From Away by Cristina Santos is the kind of romance that wraps around you like your favorite cozy sweater. It feels warm, comforting, and had just the right amount of emotional moments. Set against the breezy backdrop of Balsam Bay, this story gave me all the small town, east coast feels I didn’t know I was craving. I could practically smell the salty sea air and hear the creak of floorboards in those charming coastal homes.

Leo Chapman is easily one of the most unique and relatable MMCs I’ve read in a long time. His social anxiety wasn’t just a quirk; it was layered, real, and deeply human. Cristina Santos did such a thoughtful job portraying what anxiety can feel like: the silence that comes from overthinking, the self-doubt that lingers long after a conversation ends. Being inside Leo’s head made me feel seen in a way few books ever have.

And then there’s Neve. She is fierce, funny, and emotionally guarded. Watching her slowly soften as she gets to know Leo, while still standing firm in who she is, was such a rewarding experience. Their chemistry was palpable and although it was a slow burn, I felt so connected to them. From forced proximity to stolen glances and quiet conversations, you could feel the tension simmering under every interaction. And when that tension finally breaks? Perfection. 

I adored the "just sex" arrangement that spiraled into something so much more meaningful. These two get each other in a way no one else has, and their journey felt earned. The found family vibes, the nosy neighbors, and the community of Balsam Bay made it all the more endearing. Side characters like Matt, Billie, and Pete added charm and depth and I’m already desperate for their stories next!

If I had any tiny critique, it’s that I wish we had a little more backstory, particularly about Leo’s relationship with Helen and his father, and Neve’s history with her ex-husband. Also, some resolution with Neve’s mother would’ve added an extra layer of closure. But maybe Cristina Santos is saving that for another book in the series.

This is more than just a romance. It’s about starting over, healing old wounds, and allowing yourself to be truly known. As someone in her mid-thirties who has walked through mental health challenges and complex family dynamics, this story hit home. From Away is now etched into my heart, the kind of book I’ll think about every time I hear a seagull or smell fresh paint.

Tropes & Vibes
🪻Small Town
🛠️ Interior Designer x Cabinet Maker (Workplace Romance)
🌊 East Coast Canada (Nova Scotia!)
🌀 Social Anxiety Rep
🧁 Found Family
🔥 Forced Proximity
🩹 Divorced FMC with Endometriosis Rep
🎶 Swiftie Easter Eggs
✍️ Cozy but emotional storytelling

If you’re looking for a heartfelt, spicy, and emotionally satisfying romance that balances humor, depth, and healing with the charm of a coastal town, From Away is the book for you. Cristina Santos has started something special here and I can’t wait to see what’s next in Balsam Bay.

Thank you to Cristina Santos and Luna Literary for the eARC of this book. 

Kitty St. Clair’s Last Dance was one of my most anticipated reads of the year, and it absolutely delivered. Kate Robb has such a talent for blending heart, romance, and a touch of magic. This book hit all the marks.

Jules and Reeve's relationship had all the vibes: second chance tension, emotional depth, and the slow rebuilding of trust that made this a total page turner. Their chemistry felt lived in, like you were watching two people fight for something real. And while I don’t typically enjoy miscommunication tropes, it didn’t overwhelm the story; instead, it felt true to the characters and their individual growth.

What really elevated the story was the layered dual narrative. Kitty’s past, which is told through magical dreamlike visits, was tender, bittersweet, and powerful. It gave so much insight into Jules and what she’s struggling with in her own life. Kitty’s legacy wasn’t just a dance hall; it was a reminder to choose yourself, and that message stayed with me long after finishing the book.

Kate Robb remains an auto buy author for me. If you love magical realism, slow burn second chances, and stories about finding yourself while falling in love, this book is for you.

Huge thanks to NetGalley, Kate Robb, and Dial Press Trade for the eARC of this book.