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romanticread
I’ve only read one of Pavlov’s books and I’m pretty sure I had no idea what I was missing out on. I loved Nash & Emerson together. There’s a delightful amount of sparks and all the feels that you could ask for. They find a rhythm that is just the sweetest and his group of friends is just so supportive, smart-mouthed, & fun. They welcome Emerson with open arms and all the love they have. (I’m gonna have to make sure that I go back and find ALL their stories.)
Pavlov could have easily gone for all the drama but instead she balances it perfectly. Showing them addressing their issues in a mature and realistic way. Facing their hurts and fears and problems with love and care, getting support where and when they need it. If everything she writes is like this, I’m pretty sure I have quite a few more books to add to my TBR pile!
**I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.**
Pavlov could have easily gone for all the drama but instead she balances it perfectly. Showing them addressing their issues in a mature and realistic way. Facing their hurts and fears and problems with love and care, getting support where and when they need it. If everything she writes is like this, I’m pretty sure I have quite a few more books to add to my TBR pile!
**I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.**
This is the first in this series for me (and only 3rd or 4th by this author) so I don’t have a lot to compare it to or any previous feeling for any of the characters. I liked Gavin and it helped getting his perspective so I was willing to give him a little grace – plus, his daughter is adorable – but if I was Penny I’m not sure how many second chances I would have given the man. He was rude WAY too many times to count as he struggled with his attraction to his daughter’s new teacher. And his new neighbor. Burned once, he finds it difficult to trust but the draw to Penny proves hard to resist.
Penny is a wonderful teacher and has a big heart. And a huge propensity to forgive, which is lucky for Gavin after he treats her poorly on more than one occasion. Sure, he apologizes each time and eventually shows himself to be the decent guy he is, but it does take a bit … he may be worth the wait tho :)
Unbreakable Love is a sweet read, with an enjoyable cast of characters, a sweetheart of a kid, a good balance between lighthearted and serious, and just a touch of heat. With the latest in the Kelley Family series, Lynn gives readers a good way to wrap up their summer beach reads.
(There are a few moments that I’m guessing would be beneficial to have read the previous book but Lynn does a good job of explaining what’s going on that it isn’t necessary.)
**I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.**
Penny is a wonderful teacher and has a big heart. And a huge propensity to forgive, which is lucky for Gavin after he treats her poorly on more than one occasion. Sure, he apologizes each time and eventually shows himself to be the decent guy he is, but it does take a bit … he may be worth the wait tho :)
Unbreakable Love is a sweet read, with an enjoyable cast of characters, a sweetheart of a kid, a good balance between lighthearted and serious, and just a touch of heat. With the latest in the Kelley Family series, Lynn gives readers a good way to wrap up their summer beach reads.
(There are a few moments that I’m guessing would be beneficial to have read the previous book but Lynn does a good job of explaining what’s going on that it isn’t necessary.)
**I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.**
There’s something endearing about how much Rhett throws himself into this accidental marriage. He feels a connection to Natalie that he can’t explain but that he feels like he must pursue. And while she wants to forget that their marriage ever existed, especially when they realize exactly how complicated it makes their lives, she feels that draw too and doesn’t fight him when he wants to see where it can go.
I think the blurb made me think the uncle-finding-out thing would be a bigger part of the story than it was. It is a concern but the majority of the storage is them spending time together so that when it does happen towards the end of the book they have so much more at stake.
Do I think these two handled their marriage and the issues that it caused in the most mature way possible? No. Do I think that it was realistic, with all of the messiness that comes with real relationships? Definitely. It’s not easy or pretty, but it rarely is.
(Part of a series but can be read as a stand alone.)
**I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.**
I think the blurb made me think the uncle-finding-out thing would be a bigger part of the story than it was. It is a concern but the majority of the storage is them spending time together so that when it does happen towards the end of the book they have so much more at stake.
Do I think these two handled their marriage and the issues that it caused in the most mature way possible? No. Do I think that it was realistic, with all of the messiness that comes with real relationships? Definitely. It’s not easy or pretty, but it rarely is.
(Part of a series but can be read as a stand alone.)
**I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.**
slow-paced
There’s a trigger warning at the beginning that mentions infidelity, SA, and toxic family relationships (which all are present in spades), so please make sure that you are OK with these. Langwell doesn’t shy away from these and delivers them with a bluntness that may not be for everyone.
As for me, I really wasn’t sure how I was going to feel about this one because I am not usually a fan of cheating in my romances. But Langwell does such an amazing job of showing how messy and hard and complicated life can be. It definitely helps that we are given both Brayden and Nina’s POV, since that lets us see it from his perspective and have an understanding of where his head is. We truly see the conflict for the two of them and the depth of their connection as they grow closer. It’s so real and raw and heartbreaking. Readers will feel for them as they struggle with an attraction that they shouldn’t do anything about but find too strong to ignore.
**I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.**
As for me, I really wasn’t sure how I was going to feel about this one because I am not usually a fan of cheating in my romances. But Langwell does such an amazing job of showing how messy and hard and complicated life can be. It definitely helps that we are given both Brayden and Nina’s POV, since that lets us see it from his perspective and have an understanding of where his head is. We truly see the conflict for the two of them and the depth of their connection as they grow closer. It’s so real and raw and heartbreaking. Readers will feel for them as they struggle with an attraction that they shouldn’t do anything about but find too strong to ignore.
**I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.**
4.5*s
This is the first of Moore's books that I've read and from their very first meeting to their HEA, I loved it. Lux is smart, caring, and sensitive to Radley's needs. She's dealing with some trauma from her past, but she wants to move on, to be "normal". And Lux and their friends are there every step of the way to support her, push her, and help her when life throws her a curve ball.
I will say that I wished that Radley was just a touch older. I understand, based on her past, why she needed to be 19. And her history probably helped her to grow up pretty darn quick, but it still is awfully young. I did appreciate the way Moore had Radley working with a therapist and putting those sessions into work in her real life. (I love how authors today are normalizing mental health in stories.)
Full of humor, steam, and straight up adorableness, The Baller might have been my first Moore story but it won't be my last.
(I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.)
This is the first of Moore's books that I've read and from their very first meeting to their HEA, I loved it. Lux is smart, caring, and sensitive to Radley's needs. She's dealing with some trauma from her past, but she wants to move on, to be "normal". And Lux and their friends are there every step of the way to support her, push her, and help her when life throws her a curve ball.
I will say that I wished that Radley was just a touch older. I understand, based on her past, why she needed to be 19. And her history probably helped her to grow up pretty darn quick, but it still is awfully young. I did appreciate the way Moore had Radley working with a therapist and putting those sessions into work in her real life. (I love how authors today are normalizing mental health in stories.)
Full of humor, steam, and straight up adorableness, The Baller might have been my first Moore story but it won't be my last.
(I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.)
funny
fast-paced
Loveable characters:
Yes
I’ll admit I was expecting, based on the blurb, for this to have a HEA/HFN ending but apparently it’s part of a series … good thing it was so dang fun that I’ll be lining up to get the next one! I love Paige and her friends – how they support each other, care for each other, and give each other those little pushes when they are needed. And are right there in the middle of every crazy adventure.
Whew, does Paige have some adventures. I love that she uses romance tropes as the catalyst for each one and Brooks does a good job of making them wacky and humorous, but not so out there that they aren’t believable. I mean, sure there are a lot of coincidences. No way would that many people just happen to be in the same part of New York at these amazingly convenient (and inconvenient) times. But I was glued to the pages, anxious to see what scrapes Paige would get into next, what hottie she would find, and what she’d learn along the way.
Loaded with humor, supportive friends, and more than a few hotties, Adventures of a Bookworm is a fun romp but it’s also more. It’s about Paige and her friends putting themselves out there. Learning about themselves, going after what they want, and growing into more confident, stronger people. I’m not usually a cliffhanger type of person – and its important to note that there is one here – but I’ve discovered that I’m willing to put up a lot for a good read. And Brooks definitely delivers.
**I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.**
Whew, does Paige have some adventures. I love that she uses romance tropes as the catalyst for each one and Brooks does a good job of making them wacky and humorous, but not so out there that they aren’t believable. I mean, sure there are a lot of coincidences. No way would that many people just happen to be in the same part of New York at these amazingly convenient (and inconvenient) times. But I was glued to the pages, anxious to see what scrapes Paige would get into next, what hottie she would find, and what she’d learn along the way.
Loaded with humor, supportive friends, and more than a few hotties, Adventures of a Bookworm is a fun romp but it’s also more. It’s about Paige and her friends putting themselves out there. Learning about themselves, going after what they want, and growing into more confident, stronger people. I’m not usually a cliffhanger type of person – and its important to note that there is one here – but I’ve discovered that I’m willing to put up a lot for a good read. And Brooks definitely delivers.
**I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.**
medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
Character
Loveable characters:
Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus:
Yes
4.5 *s
Jude & Sadie have been friends for decades and everyone is just waiting for the day that they get together. Of course, they both want more but, not knowing how the other feels, neither is willing to take the chance on losing their friendship. Until life throws Sadie a curve ball that changes everything.
I’ll admit I loved the story leading up to their wedding. They are great friends and there are so many great moments as they work their way to the point of getting married. And I loved them together. Sweet and sexy, fitting together so well. I just wished they’d do a better job of talking to each other … argh! I mean, it’s pretty much par for the course when it comes to their relationship because otherwise it wouldn’t have taken SO long for them to get together. But … *sigh* … Grovelling Jude is pretty darn sweet, tho :)
The One I Stood Beside is a perfect example of why any book with Piper Rayne on the cover is a must read for me. The characters are always interesting, realistic, and fun, with great relationships with their partners, friends, and families. Once they get over any drama, of course. And there will be some kind of issue but it doesn’t seem forced or too much. Instead there is just the right amount of bumps on the way to an enjoyable HEA ending.
I love all of the misc members of the Noughton family and I’m looking forward to what Piper Rayne has in store for us next!
(Can easily stand on its own but there’s only one other story so why not catch up!)
**I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.**
Jude & Sadie have been friends for decades and everyone is just waiting for the day that they get together. Of course, they both want more but, not knowing how the other feels, neither is willing to take the chance on losing their friendship. Until life throws Sadie a curve ball that changes everything.
I’ll admit I loved the story leading up to their wedding. They are great friends and there are so many great moments as they work their way to the point of getting married. And I loved them together. Sweet and sexy, fitting together so well. I just wished they’d do a better job of talking to each other … argh! I mean, it’s pretty much par for the course when it comes to their relationship because otherwise it wouldn’t have taken SO long for them to get together. But … *sigh* … Grovelling Jude is pretty darn sweet, tho :)
The One I Stood Beside is a perfect example of why any book with Piper Rayne on the cover is a must read for me. The characters are always interesting, realistic, and fun, with great relationships with their partners, friends, and families. Once they get over any drama, of course. And there will be some kind of issue but it doesn’t seem forced or too much. Instead there is just the right amount of bumps on the way to an enjoyable HEA ending.
I love all of the misc members of the Noughton family and I’m looking forward to what Piper Rayne has in store for us next!
(Can easily stand on its own but there’s only one other story so why not catch up!)
**I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.**
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medium-paced
4.5*s
Oh man, this was such an easy read for me! I’m pretty sure this is the first book by Carr that I’ve read and I really enjoyed it. The relationship between Erika and Blake is so sweet and fun. They support each other, make sure that they are taking care of themselves, but aren’t afraid to give each other heck when they need it.
I kinda wish we’d gotten to see them together during the off-season when it seems like they spend the majority of their free time with each other. Or even in casual social situations with the rest of the team. I’d love to see more of those relaxed interactions because they are just the cutest together.
I think the best things are the moments when each of them realize their feelings for the other and the truth of their relationship. It’s funny and sweet and the meet cute equivalent for a friends-to-lovers trope. And while Carr had the opportunity to do some third act super-drama, I appreciate the restraint (pun not intended). The two of them just really deserved more than that so I’m glad she didn’t go there.
Restraint is low on drama, humorous, steamy, and entertaining … just all around enjoyable. And after getting glimpses of the rest of the team, I’m adding their stories to my TBR list. I’m also definitely going to be checking out Carr’s backlist!
(I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.)
Oh man, this was such an easy read for me! I’m pretty sure this is the first book by Carr that I’ve read and I really enjoyed it. The relationship between Erika and Blake is so sweet and fun. They support each other, make sure that they are taking care of themselves, but aren’t afraid to give each other heck when they need it.
I kinda wish we’d gotten to see them together during the off-season when it seems like they spend the majority of their free time with each other. Or even in casual social situations with the rest of the team. I’d love to see more of those relaxed interactions because they are just the cutest together.
I think the best things are the moments when each of them realize their feelings for the other and the truth of their relationship. It’s funny and sweet and the meet cute equivalent for a friends-to-lovers trope. And while Carr had the opportunity to do some third act super-drama, I appreciate the restraint (pun not intended). The two of them just really deserved more than that so I’m glad she didn’t go there.
Restraint is low on drama, humorous, steamy, and entertaining … just all around enjoyable. And after getting glimpses of the rest of the team, I’m adding their stories to my TBR list. I’m also definitely going to be checking out Carr’s backlist!
(I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.)
medium-paced
4.5 *s
This isn’t a romantic suspense and I think that might help a lot of people. Shalvis writes about her characters – facing their pasts, dealing with secrets, and coming to terms with their emotions. Anna’s job and the mystery over the stolen items is just an excuse to her meeting Owen and figuring out if she’s ready for the HEA.
Anna’s repeated insistence that any relationship with Owen has an end date may get old for some but I think it works for her. You know that what she says doesn’t match her growing feelings for him. She’s scared but her heart really wants something more. She’s just got to give in and trust that he’ll take care of it.
Owen claims to be as relationship shy but he’s much more open to his feelings. I appreciate that, and his patience, as he spends more time with Anna. He’s a good guy, and gives to those he cares about. His willingness to put himself out there is admirable.
I enjoyed Anna’s sister’s bossiness and the love she shows through her pushiness. She’s not going to be for everyone, but I liked her and her relationship with her husband & her sister. And there’s plenty of amusing moments around carrying 3 babies.
There isn’t a lot of action in the book but it’s not that kind of book. It’s about the people and their feelings. I think readers that understand that going in will appreciate it more.
(Part of a series but these are truly stand alones with just a location in common.)
**I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.**
This isn’t a romantic suspense and I think that might help a lot of people. Shalvis writes about her characters – facing their pasts, dealing with secrets, and coming to terms with their emotions. Anna’s job and the mystery over the stolen items is just an excuse to her meeting Owen and figuring out if she’s ready for the HEA.
Anna’s repeated insistence that any relationship with Owen has an end date may get old for some but I think it works for her. You know that what she says doesn’t match her growing feelings for him. She’s scared but her heart really wants something more. She’s just got to give in and trust that he’ll take care of it.
Owen claims to be as relationship shy but he’s much more open to his feelings. I appreciate that, and his patience, as he spends more time with Anna. He’s a good guy, and gives to those he cares about. His willingness to put himself out there is admirable.
I enjoyed Anna’s sister’s bossiness and the love she shows through her pushiness. She’s not going to be for everyone, but I liked her and her relationship with her husband & her sister. And there’s plenty of amusing moments around carrying 3 babies.
There isn’t a lot of action in the book but it’s not that kind of book. It’s about the people and their feelings. I think readers that understand that going in will appreciate it more.
(Part of a series but these are truly stand alones with just a location in common.)
**I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.**
Harry has been struggling to find the one, although he’ll admit that using an app is probably not the way to go :) Then he meets adorable, artsy Arlo. Unfortunately, Arlo is off-limits as the brother of Harry’s best friend. (I think Gordon might be over-reacting a bit – he admits that Harry is a good person – but he’s had lots of years being the one to watch over his brothers so …) But time spent together has them deciding that their attraction is one that can’t be ignored. Which of course goes the way you think it will and, while I do understand why Gordon might be upset with the way things play out, I can also see why the guys think this is the best way.
There’s not a lot of depth or character growth with Harry and Arlo. It’s a quick read but all sorts of fun. Full of sweetness and deepening feelings as readers are given a peek into their growing emotions and their oh-so-spicy alone time.
I’ve only read one other book by Jackson and, based on these two, I think she’s going on my must read author list. Her characters are interesting and her stories are entertaining & steamy. What’s next, Becca?!?
**I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.**
There’s not a lot of depth or character growth with Harry and Arlo. It’s a quick read but all sorts of fun. Full of sweetness and deepening feelings as readers are given a peek into their growing emotions and their oh-so-spicy alone time.
I’ve only read one other book by Jackson and, based on these two, I think she’s going on my must read author list. Her characters are interesting and her stories are entertaining & steamy. What’s next, Becca?!?
**I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.**