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DNF at 33%. I kept going back to give this one more chances based on a few close Bookstagram friends who really enjoyed it, but I just couldn’t connect with this story.

Thanks to Knopf for the copy of this book.

3.5 stars

The Golden Couple is a fun and engaging domestic thriller told from a dual POV: Marissa, married to Matthew and currently in a marriage that's ready to fall apart, and Avery, a therapist whose 10-session approach is outlandish enough to make her lose her license, but successful enough that she's turning away clients. While this was a quick read, there was a lot happening throughout the book to make multiple people look like suspects for various crimes. There's an unsettling feeling looming from the start, and it's quickly revealed that no one is quite who they seem to be on the surface.

While this was a fun thriller, I didn't really think the pharmaceutical storyline was necessary... you'd essentially be left with the same story if that was removed. But this is a great one to throw in a bag for a flight or weekend getaway! Also loved the audio - the narrators were spectactular and brought life into their characters.

Thank you to St. Martin's Press and Macmillan Audio for the copy of this ALC!

“You’re beautiful… I know you’ve heard that before, how beautiful you are. Because it’s true.” He lowers his head, placing a single kiss on the flat divot at the center of my chest. “But your heart is the most beautiful thing about you, Sade.”

Lease on Love was a truly adorable roommates-to-lovers romance between two people with traumatic pasts. I loved the help and healing they brought to each other and the personal development they made amidst the romance storyline. The slow burn was just that - slooowwww - including finger locking as a stage of physical affection. But it was perfection and made absolute sense with Sadie and Jack’s story, and their relationship was realistic, sweet, and steamy. The friend group that acts as chosen family was wonderful, the banter and nicknames were fantastic, and I loved the roomie and job situations. The one thing I thought could use more development was Sadie’s abusive background causing her to lack self confidence and be self-deprecating. It could’ve been helpful to give more context to her calling herself “selfish” all the time. Regardless, really enjoyed this book! Highly recommend.

Thanks to Putnam Books for the ARC!

4.5 stars

A charming, bingable rom-com about college friends who make a pact to get married at age thirty. This was such a fun and feel-good rom com, complete with a crazy ex-girlfriend and some amazingly supportive side character friends and family. Loved the focus on Hannah’s job as a journalist covering alternative and emo bands, because really… who doesn’t love Taking Back Sunday?! She and Will fit together so well and I loved their story! I’d love to see future stories about some side characters… Daniel, Kate, and even Jon?! More please!!!

Thanks to Red Adept Publishing for the copy of this ARC!