Take a photo of a barcode or cover
1.11k reviews by:
romanticread
4.5*s
Drake has some serious trust issues after being betrayed by both his ex-wife and the league. It makes his attraction to Brienne very complicated – he can handle things when its just his body involved but as soon as its his heart things become problematic.
While Brienne tries, she can’t resist the pull she feels for the cocky hockey player. If they can keep it superficial … but as he shows her his caring side, for his family and for her, deeper feelings soon follow.
Bennett is amazing at delivering characters, both male and female, that are strong but with vulnerabilities that need to be overcome on their way to a HEA. Both Drake and Brienne have their reasons for keeping things light but their attraction is so overwhelming that they find themselves spending more and more time together, with emotions developing that neither of them want. Steamy, sassy, and smart Bennett delivers yet another must read. Her Titans are guaranteed to deliver and I’m ready to see what she will bring next.
(I think there should be a content warning for those who have concerns around consent. Drake is very alpha and a take charge guy in the bedroom. He also recognizes that while Brienne owns her sexuality, most of the time she wants to give up control because she spends so much of her time making big decisions as the CEO of her company. It works for a romance novel but it may be disturbing for some as there are times when Drake pushes her a little. Just putting that out there for those that need it.)
**I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.**
Drake has some serious trust issues after being betrayed by both his ex-wife and the league. It makes his attraction to Brienne very complicated – he can handle things when its just his body involved but as soon as its his heart things become problematic.
While Brienne tries, she can’t resist the pull she feels for the cocky hockey player. If they can keep it superficial … but as he shows her his caring side, for his family and for her, deeper feelings soon follow.
Bennett is amazing at delivering characters, both male and female, that are strong but with vulnerabilities that need to be overcome on their way to a HEA. Both Drake and Brienne have their reasons for keeping things light but their attraction is so overwhelming that they find themselves spending more and more time together, with emotions developing that neither of them want. Steamy, sassy, and smart Bennett delivers yet another must read. Her Titans are guaranteed to deliver and I’m ready to see what she will bring next.
(I think there should be a content warning for those who have concerns around consent. Drake is very alpha and a take charge guy in the bedroom. He also recognizes that while Brienne owns her sexuality, most of the time she wants to give up control because she spends so much of her time making big decisions as the CEO of her company. It works for a romance novel but it may be disturbing for some as there are times when Drake pushes her a little. Just putting that out there for those that need it.)
**I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.**
Shalvis’s newest may be more women’s fiction than romance, but it definitely doesn’t scrimp on the feels. Alice is back in her hometown to reluctantly face her past, including her former best friend and her high school crush. For a woman who is quite good at running away from difficult situations, the next few weeks stuck together in the same house is guaranteed to be difficult. Luckily, Knox is amazingly centered and calm, able to handle Lauren’s self-doubt & scattered moments as well as Alice’s prickliness so that they manage to renovate Eleanor’s house … and something more.
Drama, love, healing, and friendship all mix together with a liberal dash of humor to delightfully entertain readers, as these three find their HEA in a meandering and satisfying way. There’s guilt, hurt feelings, and misunderstandings, but also a chance to finally make peace with themselves and each other.
(Part of a series but only in that it is set in the same community.)
**I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.**
Drama, love, healing, and friendship all mix together with a liberal dash of humor to delightfully entertain readers, as these three find their HEA in a meandering and satisfying way. There’s guilt, hurt feelings, and misunderstandings, but also a chance to finally make peace with themselves and each other.
(Part of a series but only in that it is set in the same community.)
**I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.**
Ava moved to Pittsburgh because of a man and unfortunately it didn’t take long for her to realize what a mistake he was. But she’s making the best of her situation, working to get herself back on her feet. And, sure, a little distraction in the morning thanks to the hottie that comes in every day for coffee doesn’t hurt. Especially once she realizes that maybe it’s a little more than flirting … When a simple date turns out to be more life changing than she expects, Ava has to decide how she’s going to move forward.
Returning readers get a glimpse of what really happened in Cannon’s marriage and how it impacts his views on his job & relationships. It’s caused him to be concerned about how those things can work together and so he makes sure that he’s up front about how much he can give to Ava. It’s pretty obvious that Cannon is all talk tho and pretty much only fooling himself. He’s quickly falling for her and it’s just a matter of time before he figures it out. Readers know there’s going to be at least a few bumps before he gets there – best to just settle in and see how long it takes him to get his act together :)
I appreciated how supportive Cannon is to Ava, really listening to her and abiding by her wishes. He’s there for her, willing to help in any way he can, but recognizing her need to handle things herself. He brings to the rest of his life the same skills that make him an amazing head coach and while may have a bit of a blind spot when it comes to himself, he definitely knows how to be there for others.
Bennett has always delivered delightfully steam, funny, and sweet reads and Cannon is no different. While I would have liked to have seen more of their flirtation at the coffee shop, and things move pretty quickly once Cannon makes a move, I enjoyed getting to know him and Ava better. I look forward to seeing what she has in store next for our beloved Titans.
(Part of a series and while probably more enjoyable if read in order all of them can be read as a standalone – I’ve missed one or two and it’s been OK.)
**I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.**
Returning readers get a glimpse of what really happened in Cannon’s marriage and how it impacts his views on his job & relationships. It’s caused him to be concerned about how those things can work together and so he makes sure that he’s up front about how much he can give to Ava. It’s pretty obvious that Cannon is all talk tho and pretty much only fooling himself. He’s quickly falling for her and it’s just a matter of time before he figures it out. Readers know there’s going to be at least a few bumps before he gets there – best to just settle in and see how long it takes him to get his act together :)
I appreciated how supportive Cannon is to Ava, really listening to her and abiding by her wishes. He’s there for her, willing to help in any way he can, but recognizing her need to handle things herself. He brings to the rest of his life the same skills that make him an amazing head coach and while may have a bit of a blind spot when it comes to himself, he definitely knows how to be there for others.
Bennett has always delivered delightfully steam, funny, and sweet reads and Cannon is no different. While I would have liked to have seen more of their flirtation at the coffee shop, and things move pretty quickly once Cannon makes a move, I enjoyed getting to know him and Ava better. I look forward to seeing what she has in store next for our beloved Titans.
(Part of a series and while probably more enjoyable if read in order all of them can be read as a standalone – I’ve missed one or two and it’s been OK.)
**I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.**
4.5*s
I’ll be honest, I expected Ivy to get on my nerves. There’s something about “party girls who have commitment issues” that usually comes off more as flighty and annoying, but Ivy was actually fun. She had a sense of adventure and a penchant for poking her nose in where it doesn’t belong (mostly to have an excuse to not look at her own troubles). She’s a good foil for Lou’s more serious demeanor and tendency to be a little too responsible. As their relationship develops and turns into something more, they blend together well. Ivy’s issues because of her childhood and the way she was treated by her mother were definitely going to prove to be a stumbling block but it’s done in a way that left me very satisfied.
With quirky humor, steamy (and sometimes surprising) sexy time, and a very Ivy & Lou HEA, Matchmaking a Roommate finishes the Highland Hills on a high note … with just enough of a hint to tease us about what comes next.
(Part of a series but can be read as a stand alone.)
**I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.**
I’ll be honest, I expected Ivy to get on my nerves. There’s something about “party girls who have commitment issues” that usually comes off more as flighty and annoying, but Ivy was actually fun. She had a sense of adventure and a penchant for poking her nose in where it doesn’t belong (mostly to have an excuse to not look at her own troubles). She’s a good foil for Lou’s more serious demeanor and tendency to be a little too responsible. As their relationship develops and turns into something more, they blend together well. Ivy’s issues because of her childhood and the way she was treated by her mother were definitely going to prove to be a stumbling block but it’s done in a way that left me very satisfied.
With quirky humor, steamy (and sometimes surprising) sexy time, and a very Ivy & Lou HEA, Matchmaking a Roommate finishes the Highland Hills on a high note … with just enough of a hint to tease us about what comes next.
(Part of a series but can be read as a stand alone.)
**I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.**
Next to Tru Blue, I think this was my favorite Melissa Foster book. Johnny is just all around awesome – he makes mistakes, but he has such a huge heart and really wants to be the best person he can be. He’s had a lot thrown at him all at once, but he steps up and does what needs to be done …. including taking on the sexy little spitfire yelling at him about cancelling a meeting yet again. With patience, understanding, and persistence, he’ll prove he’s in it for the long haul.
I’ve read a decent number of Foster’s books, but this is only the second of the Braden books so while I’ve met Jilly before it wasn’t all that much. She turned out to be just a spunky as I’d expected her to be, tho. She owns her sexuality, her smarts, and her spirit, giving Johnny both attitude and assistance in spades. She’s not going to let him get away with anything, but she also recognizes what we do – that he’s a genuinely good guy that’s doing the best he can. Together they can get through just about anything that life throws at them and I’m here for every minute of it.
I gotta say that the blurb doesn’t lie – Rocked By Love is full to the brim with humor, heat, and heart. Foster really hit it out the park with this one, delivering well-developed characters that seem so real and a story that is guaranteed to touch your heart. (And Johnny’s dirty mouth definitely doesn’t hurt!)
~part of a series but can be read as a stand alone – although there’s a lot of characters that were introduced in other books, enough info was given that I mostly figured out what’s going on~
**I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.**
I’ve read a decent number of Foster’s books, but this is only the second of the Braden books so while I’ve met Jilly before it wasn’t all that much. She turned out to be just a spunky as I’d expected her to be, tho. She owns her sexuality, her smarts, and her spirit, giving Johnny both attitude and assistance in spades. She’s not going to let him get away with anything, but she also recognizes what we do – that he’s a genuinely good guy that’s doing the best he can. Together they can get through just about anything that life throws at them and I’m here for every minute of it.
I gotta say that the blurb doesn’t lie – Rocked By Love is full to the brim with humor, heat, and heart. Foster really hit it out the park with this one, delivering well-developed characters that seem so real and a story that is guaranteed to touch your heart. (And Johnny’s dirty mouth definitely doesn’t hurt!)
~part of a series but can be read as a stand alone – although there’s a lot of characters that were introduced in other books, enough info was given that I mostly figured out what’s going on~
**I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.**
OK, so after reading some of the other reviews I think I have a slightly differing opinion than some – the man does screw up royally, which isn’t a spoiler because you can see it coming a mile away. But maybe it’s because we get Weston’s POV as well that I just couldn’t lay all of the blame on him. The first time I put a lot of it on Elise. He explained the situation and what to expect, then when it happened (and maybe it was a little much), she just shuts down instead of having a conversation with him. Granted the way Wolf writes his jealousy is a little over the top for me, but I could see where some might find it sexy, and in in this case it definitely doesn’t help his situation. The second time, though the majority of their issues do lie at his feet, she could have been a bit more communicative here as well. Point out to him what is going on, why it isn’t working, and what you expect to change. Getting huffy – even understandably so – doesn’t help the situation.
Having both POVs, though, does mean that I felt for both of them. They have their reasons for doing the things they do and it’s hard letting go of the scars from their pasts. Just a little bit more working together would do a lot to get them to a healthier and more stable place to move towards a future together. It’s not going to be easy for either of them, they just have to decide if it’s what they want.
Wolf delivers delightful secondary characters (most of whom I really hope get their own story) and a love story that I found myself drawn to, even while I wanted to give them both a stern talking to. Dear Grumpy Boss is spicy, definitely angsty, and has a nice touch of whimsy & humor – as an introduction to a new-to-me author, I couldn’t ask for a better choice.
**I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.**
Having both POVs, though, does mean that I felt for both of them. They have their reasons for doing the things they do and it’s hard letting go of the scars from their pasts. Just a little bit more working together would do a lot to get them to a healthier and more stable place to move towards a future together. It’s not going to be easy for either of them, they just have to decide if it’s what they want.
Wolf delivers delightful secondary characters (most of whom I really hope get their own story) and a love story that I found myself drawn to, even while I wanted to give them both a stern talking to. Dear Grumpy Boss is spicy, definitely angsty, and has a nice touch of whimsy & humor – as an introduction to a new-to-me author, I couldn’t ask for a better choice.
**I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.**
This is my first book by Hayes and I was pleasantly surprised - it was scorching, sweet, and funny.
Scott is deliciously grumpy and stoic. He's had his heart broken badly enough that he's not in a hurry to try love again. Too bad fate has him sitting next to bubbly, sweet Theo, who's fear of flying has him talking Scott's ear off. Before he realizes it, the flight is almost over and he didn't mind it a bit. And definitely not when things get a little hot in an airport bathroom; after all, what can it hurt since they'll never see each other again ... until Theo walks into his bakery a couple of days later.
Not usually one to take chances, Theo finds himself acting quite out of character but there's just something about Scott that draws him. And Theo knows he can help out the bakery. It's a great opportunity to help him evaluate the direction his life is taking him ... and get to spend even more time with the sexy baker. He just needs to remember that falling for him is a horrible idea.
With Fairy Cakes in Winter, Hayes gives readers appealing characters who find themselves in a realistic situation with minimal angst. It's a slow, but definitely steamy, build to an enjoyable HEA.
Oh, I did this as an audiobook and I rarely listen to them - I had a horrible experience AGES ago that was so bad it still makes me hesitant today :) - but Dean has a pleasant voice and does a fantastic job bringing Hayes's characters & their interactions to life. Made me brave enough to get another one to try out!
**I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.**
Scott is deliciously grumpy and stoic. He's had his heart broken badly enough that he's not in a hurry to try love again. Too bad fate has him sitting next to bubbly, sweet Theo, who's fear of flying has him talking Scott's ear off. Before he realizes it, the flight is almost over and he didn't mind it a bit. And definitely not when things get a little hot in an airport bathroom; after all, what can it hurt since they'll never see each other again ... until Theo walks into his bakery a couple of days later.
Not usually one to take chances, Theo finds himself acting quite out of character but there's just something about Scott that draws him. And Theo knows he can help out the bakery. It's a great opportunity to help him evaluate the direction his life is taking him ... and get to spend even more time with the sexy baker. He just needs to remember that falling for him is a horrible idea.
With Fairy Cakes in Winter, Hayes gives readers appealing characters who find themselves in a realistic situation with minimal angst. It's a slow, but definitely steamy, build to an enjoyable HEA.
Oh, I did this as an audiobook and I rarely listen to them - I had a horrible experience AGES ago that was so bad it still makes me hesitant today :) - but Dean has a pleasant voice and does a fantastic job bringing Hayes's characters & their interactions to life. Made me brave enough to get another one to try out!
**I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.**
Bo is a stand-up guy who made mistakes in his past and is now spending his life helping others who find themselves in a similar situation - working with other ex-cons to transition from prison to regular life. It’s not easy but his no-nonsense attitude and occasional tough love helps.
Bo was one of my favorites from book 1 - his steady presence and Southern boy charm makes him a heart-stealer. Having him do something as fanciful as falling for someone at first sight is a hoot, but Joy proves to be a good choice as she is just as giving and big-hearted as he is. She volunteers her time teaching adults to read and is ready to look to the heart of people, not just what you see on the surface.
My biggest complaint with this book is that I would have loved for Joy and Bo to spend more time together. I found them delightful as a couple and would have enjoyed seeing their relationship develop and deepen. But that’s the romance reader in me - maybe this one would fall more towards women’s fiction as the author does a good job of letting us into the characters' lives and thoughts.
The Rumors in Ross County series so far has given us two slow burn, clean stories about ex-cons and the women who stole their hearts. There’s a little suspense and tension at the end to keep us on our toes but at its heart Sycamore Circle is all about Bo & Joy falling in love.
**I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.**
Bo was one of my favorites from book 1 - his steady presence and Southern boy charm makes him a heart-stealer. Having him do something as fanciful as falling for someone at first sight is a hoot, but Joy proves to be a good choice as she is just as giving and big-hearted as he is. She volunteers her time teaching adults to read and is ready to look to the heart of people, not just what you see on the surface.
My biggest complaint with this book is that I would have loved for Joy and Bo to spend more time together. I found them delightful as a couple and would have enjoyed seeing their relationship develop and deepen. But that’s the romance reader in me - maybe this one would fall more towards women’s fiction as the author does a good job of letting us into the characters' lives and thoughts.
The Rumors in Ross County series so far has given us two slow burn, clean stories about ex-cons and the women who stole their hearts. There’s a little suspense and tension at the end to keep us on our toes but at its heart Sycamore Circle is all about Bo & Joy falling in love.
**I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.**
A grumpy prince only doing his duty. A fake princess who is sunshine and happiness personified. A mix-up of royal proportion. All combined in a sappy package of holiday cheer.
You have to go into it knowing what you are getting - a fluffy, feel-good holiday romance - but I really enjoyed the heck out of this one. Is it predictable? Definitely. But that doesn’t stop it from being fun.
**I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.**
You have to go into it knowing what you are getting - a fluffy, feel-good holiday romance - but I really enjoyed the heck out of this one. Is it predictable? Definitely. But that doesn’t stop it from being fun.
**I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.**
*3.5 Stars*
Overall, the heat is off the charts but the heart seemed to be a little lacking for me. I enjoyed Everly, she’s strong and independent … except when it came to Declan. Every interaction with him had her folding to his will, which is fine in a dom/sub type relationship, I guess, but I would have really liked for there to be a bit more balance. It did lead some seriously off-the-charts hot sex scenes but it didn’t do much for me to feel their “love” for each other.
Declan was a little bit on the other side of Alpha, maybe even a touch toxic at times. He’s controlling, dominant, overly jealous, but can also be sweet and thoughtful so I can kinda get it – he will definitely appeal to some. And he had some moments for me as well, but there were also times when I felt like his dealings with Everly were unhealthy. I just kept thinking that a therapist would have a field day with this one (which I guess maybe isn’t what you should be thinking when you are reading a romance).
The lack of communication between these two, and the push-pull of their interactions, got a bit old and some of the things Declan did … I really don’t know how he expected it would all work out in the end. But I can see the allure and the author definitely has me intrigued about the next book. I’m more than willing to take my chances and find out how Alpha that Hardy brother can be!
Between Commitment and Betrayal will be the perfect read for the right audience – the writing is enjoyable and the characters have their appeal. It’s not going to be for everyone, but I think this author knows who she’s writing for and delivers to them exactly what they will love.
(I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.)
Overall, the heat is off the charts but the heart seemed to be a little lacking for me. I enjoyed Everly, she’s strong and independent … except when it came to Declan. Every interaction with him had her folding to his will, which is fine in a dom/sub type relationship, I guess, but I would have really liked for there to be a bit more balance. It did lead some seriously off-the-charts hot sex scenes but it didn’t do much for me to feel their “love” for each other.
Declan was a little bit on the other side of Alpha, maybe even a touch toxic at times. He’s controlling, dominant, overly jealous, but can also be sweet and thoughtful so I can kinda get it – he will definitely appeal to some. And he had some moments for me as well, but there were also times when I felt like his dealings with Everly were unhealthy. I just kept thinking that a therapist would have a field day with this one (which I guess maybe isn’t what you should be thinking when you are reading a romance).
The lack of communication between these two, and the push-pull of their interactions, got a bit old and some of the things Declan did … I really don’t know how he expected it would all work out in the end. But I can see the allure and the author definitely has me intrigued about the next book. I’m more than willing to take my chances and find out how Alpha that Hardy brother can be!
Between Commitment and Betrayal will be the perfect read for the right audience – the writing is enjoyable and the characters have their appeal. It’s not going to be for everyone, but I think this author knows who she’s writing for and delivers to them exactly what they will love.
(I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.)