The Bed Mate is a short and sweet story that perfectly delivered the friends to lovers story even as a novella. It didn't feel rushed or fast-paced, and I felt the chemistry between Sam and Maggie from start to finish.
Sam and Maggie have been best friends since they were in college, and Sam has loved her for just as long. When they both find themselves single—Sam broke up with his girlfriend and Maggie with her long-term cheater of a boyfriend—Sam flies Maggie over from New York to Colorado to join him and his friends for a holiday by the slopes.
Their only problem? The hotel where they're staying is full. Maggie has no choice but to stay with Sam in his hotel room, and she's starting to feel something she's never felt before when she's with him.
The two of them have been there for each other through thick and thin, and now Sam is wondering if this is it; this is finally their time. He doesn't know how she'll feel about more or if this will ruin their friendship, but he knows if he doesn't try now, he might never have the chance again.
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Maybe I had to settle for the fact that, no matter how hard I looked, I would never find anyone that fit with me the way Maggie did. She was just…my person. The puzzle piece that clicked with mine.”
I loved Sam and Maggie's friendship and loved their relationship even more. Their interactions felt so authentic and carefree, I had no doubt they'd be happier together as a couple. The story had some angst but stayed light throughout and with just enough sexual tension to keep the story rolling.
This book is perfect for the holidays, and if you're looking for a quick, fun and sexy read, you'll enjoy The Bed Mate.
Tropes: Friends to Lovers POV: First Person, Dual POV Standalone: Yes
The Bed Mate is a short and sweet story that perfectly delivered the friends to lovers story even as a novella. It didn't feel rushed or fast-paced, and I felt the chemistry between Sam and Maggie from start to finish.
Sam and Maggie have been best friends since they were in college, and Sam has loved her for just as long. When they both find themselves single—Sam broke up with his girlfriend and Maggie with her long-term cheater of a boyfriend—Sam flies Maggie over from New York to Colorado to join him and his friends for a holiday by the slopes.
Their only problem? The hotel where they're staying is full. Maggie has no choice but to stay with Sam in his hotel room, and she's starting to feel something she's never felt before when she's with him.
The two of them have been there for each other through thick and thin, and now Sam is wondering if this is it; this is finally their time. He doesn't know how she'll feel about more or if this will ruin their friendship, but he knows if he doesn't try now, he might never have the chance again.
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Maybe I had to settle for the fact that, no matter how hard I looked, I would never find anyone that fit with me the way Maggie did. She was just…my person. The puzzle piece that clicked with mine.”
I loved Sam and Maggie's friendship and loved their relationship even more. Their interactions felt so authentic and carefree, I had no doubt they'd be happier together as a couple. The story had some angst but stayed light throughout and with just enough sexual tension to keep the story rolling.
This book is perfect for the holidays, and if you're looking for a quick, fun and sexy read, you'll enjoy The Bed Mate.
Tropes: Friends to Lovers POV: First Person, Dual POV Standalone: Yes
I enjoyed my first Kristen Ashley read and will definitely check out her older books. The book was mostly light and steamy, had little dram3.5-4 stars
I enjoyed my first Kristen Ashley read and will definitely check out her older books. The book was mostly light and steamy, had little drama (not as much as the blurb implied), and would be a nice read when you're looking for something that would make you swoon.
I admit it takes time getting used to their switch in POVs because Izzy's POV was told in first person and Johnny's in third, but overall I liked the way the narrative was written.
My biggest issue why I didn't fully fall in love with this book is because the two protagonists seemed too perfect at times. Sometimes, Izzy feels like she came out of a Disney fairytale. She literally has a canary resting on her shoulder when she cooks breakfast in the morning.
Full review to be posted after the holidays....more
Hmm. I didn't hate it? But I didn't exactly love it either. It was more of an 'eh, okay' kind of feeling. It was cliche, but it's not the reas3 stars.
Hmm. I didn't hate it? But I didn't exactly love it either. It was more of an 'eh, okay' kind of feeling. It was cliche, but it's not the reason I didn't fall for it. Sometimes it's fun to read those kinds of books. It was a light and quick read, with some drama there that I ate up, and just what I was looking for considering my mood. I agree with the others that this would make a fun movie.
Rimmel, a scholarship student/walking hazard, isn't exactly thrilled when she's assigned to tutor a varsity star like Romeo, but she has no choice but to suck it up. And Romeo didn't exactly sign up for this, but since his coach and the dean need the star player to stay on the team, off to the library he goes.
On top of that, Romeo might have a chance to get in the best fraternity on campus—the fraternity his father and grandfather were part of—but the president is making it hard for him to get in. Romeo gets the hardest tasks to do, but the worst is he has to sleep with "the nerd" and show them the proof to get in. At first, the bet was nothing to him, but then he got to know Rimmel and started to actually like like her, and he isn't sure if it's all worth it anymore.
As a person who's been labeled a NERD a few times when I was in college, especially one who wears dark-rimmed glasses and has wild hair like Rimmel, I wasn't sure I completely liked the path it went to? Although I guess it was cute that Romeo started liking her even before the whole mini-makeover thing. But the whole thing where she ties her hair up and suddenly he sees she's gorgeous kind of made me roll my eyes. There were also sexist stuff in there that just made me cringe. Example below:
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The wolves were my family. We Watched each other's backs and we didn't try to break down one of our over petty jealousy shit.
That shit was for women."
It's an enjoyable enough read reminiscent of flicks like High School Musical and The DUFF (the movie, not the book), and if you're a fan of new adult romances where the shy girl ends up with the popular jock, you might enjoy this more like others did. I thought the ending felt a bit rushed, but I found out Rimmel and Romeo's story goes on in #Hater. The jury is still out on whether I'm going to read it. We'll see.
Tropes: College, Sports—Football, Popular Guy Falls for Shy Girl, Bet POV: First Person, Dual POV Standalone: No...more
Like in Pride and Prejudice, when it comes to Elizabeth's two suitors—if you could even call them that—in Christmas at Darcy House, one has got all the goodness, and the other all the appearance of it. Jane takes a fall and hurts her ankle, so Elizabeth is left to go to Cheapside instead. She has a busy Christmas when she has not one, but two men visiting her at her aunt and uncle's place.
Wickham is pursuing her, courting her, to eventually ask for her hand in marriage. But if you're familiar with George Wickham, you'll know this man won't do things unless he has something to gain. And Darcy knows that. He feels it's his responsibility to alert the Bennets and the Gardiners of Wickham's ways, but when he tries to tell them about it, it only seems to make them think less of Darcy instead.
While the story goes a different way than it did in the original, it still takes a long and eventful way for Darcy and Elizabeth to reach their happily ever after. Darcy is more straightforward, and he did some things that made him look worse than Wickham. I could feel his desperation when he saw he might lose Elizabeth forever. I didn't particularly agree with his action, but he redeemed himself soon enough.
Caroline is more ruthless in her pursuit of Darcy, using ways only a desperate woman would use. She's delusional if she thinks Mr. Darcy would ever choose her. All I can say is she got what she deserved.
Christmas at Darcy House Tropes: Hate to Love POV: Third Person
1001 Dark Nights is back with a new bundle, a mix of supernatural, suspense, and some light and fluffier material. We haveReview at Of Pens and Pages.
1001 Dark Nights is back with a new bundle, a mix of supernatural, suspense, and some light and fluffier material. We have vampires, private investigators, chefs, cops, and even storm chasers, with different levels of alpha-ness. Different flavors for different tastes, so to speak. Overall, I was pretty satisfied with what I've read, and I added new books to read because of it.
TRICKED: A Dark Protectors Novella by Rebecca Zanetti—3.5 stars
I was in for a treat with my first Rebecca Zanetti read. Jam-packed with heat, action, and explosions, Tricked is about Ronni Alexander, a psychiatrist close to knocking at death's door, and Nick Navarro, the 400-year old vampire who saved her by becoming her mate. I'm not usually a fan of alpha heroes, but I don't know, for some reason if you add a supernatural element, now that, that for me is hot. Someone tried to kill Ronni, and she wants to know who did it. There are people after Nick and his men, too, so expect lots of fighting and running. The only thing I wasn't a complete fan of was Ronni's penchant for jumping into trouble—most often behind Nick's back—because she thinks she can do it (SHE CAN'T).
Tropes: Supernatural—vampires, Mates POV: Third Person
DIRTY WICKED: A Wicked Lovers Novella by Shayla Black—DNF
This is the only novella I didn't finish in this bundle. It just wasn't for me. It bothered me that the heroine kept comparing her sexual experience with her dead husband while she was getting it on with the hero, who, I need to add, is said husband's best friend. Nothing wrong with the fact that the hero and heroine's husband were the best of friends, but it just rubbed me the wrong way the way she kept comparing them. I couldn't connect with the characters, and couldn't get with this pairing. Sorry.
Tropes: Single Mother, On the Run POV: Third Person
THE ONLY ONE: A One Love Novella by Lauren Blakely—4.5 stars
Penny and Gabriel had a whirlwind romance in Barcelona that ended in heartbreak for Penny when he stood her up when they agreed to meet up again. Ten years later, with Gabriel now a successful chef and restauranteur and Penny focused on a non-profit organization for animals, they meet again in New York. Unfortunately, Gabriel doesn't recognize her at all. Penny has no choice but to work with the sexy Spanish chef since their event for the animal shelter needs a last-minute caterer and Gabriel's restaurant is the only one available.
There's a bit of mystery as to why Gabriel didn't meet up with her, and there's the thing about Penny not revealing who she is to him when they meet again. It's romantic, sweet, and steamy. There's some angst in there, but the tone of the story is still light. A story of two people who are meant to be.
Tropes: Second Chance POV: First Person, Dual POV
SWEET SURRENDER: A MacKenzie Family Novella by Liliana Hart—4 stars
Liza is my favorite heroine in this bundle. She's a wild child, doesn't cower and bend when it comes to facing alpha men, confident in her own skin, and she knows how to cooperate when her life depends on it...unlike a certain woman who tries to do things on her own to show she's a "strong" woman, but I digress. Liza Carmichael, the woman who inherited the bakery at Surrender from her great aunt, and recently retired Lieutenant Grant Boone's first meeting went with a bang, literally. Grant's old assignment is catching up on him and Liza is dragged along with it when a person who's after Grant shoots at them at Liza's bakery. Now they have to run and hide to stay alive. This novella had a lot of suspense and action, in and out of bed, and a lot of chemistry.
Tropes: Small Town, On the Run, Cop POV: Third Person
EDGE OF CHAOS by Molly Lee—4 stars
This novella, with its fair share of angst, is sweet, hopeful, and beautiful. Blake finds solace from her abusive relationship in meteorology, where she meets friends with the same passion, and Dash Lexington, the storm chaser. A strong and solid friendship forms between them as they run after tornadoes. I've never read a romance book about storm chasers and just storms in general, so it was really interesting to read that. Plus, I love Dash, patient, kind, loving, and understanding Dash. I also loved that this didn't feel rushed, their relationship especially, even if it was just a novella.
While it frustrated me that Blake didn't drop Justin's a** soon enough, I understand most abusive relationships are like that. The abused can't easily leave the relationship, sometimes being in denial at what's happening, and other times in fear of what would happen if they left. It felt realistic, her struggle, and I felt for her throughout the story.
Blake's old boyfriend Justin is a selfish d*ck. He gave little and took a lot, and he's an abusive man. He chose to become what he is, and no amount of tragic past can make his actions against Blake understandable.
Tropes: College, Friends to Lovers POV: First Person, Female POV
Hormones and balls abound. Overall, Team Player is a solid collection of sports romance novellas that deliver fun plots, great banter, and amazing sexual tension. It had sports I love, tropes I love even more, authors, and authors I adore. But the best thing about this is it gave me the chance to get acquainted with sports I've never read before and authors I haven't had the chance to read just yet. I know there are eight novellas in this collection, but for this review, I will be highlighting my favorites.
FULL COURT PRESS BY KENNEDY RYAN
Mack Decker, the basketball player with a bit of an ego. Avery Hughes, the reporter trying to make her way into a male-dominated industry. Since they met, there's always been a spark between them; they just didn't do anything about it the first time. Ten years later, they're different people, but the connection is still there as they become temporary co-hosts of Avery's show. Not only does this novella bring in the slow burn romance, it also tackles some issues on sexism and double standards in any careers, and mental health, as well.
Tropes: Second Chance, Sports—Basketball POV: Dual POV, First Person
BACK IN THE GAME BY MEGHAN QUINN
If you want a meet cute, you'll get it in Back in the Game. Single father and professional hockey payer Calder Weiss adores his five year old daughter Shea, and part of their routine is eating at a noodle and doughnut shop donning glittery fairy wings and a pretty tiara. He first meets Rachel Perry at said noodle and doughnut shop wearing said glittery fairy wings and pretty tiara, and they get along easily. This is an adorable romance, and Calder is an even more adorable hero.
Tropes: Single Father, Sports—Hockey POV: Dual POV, First Person
SWEEPING THE SERIES BY KATE STEWART
It had more angst than some of the books, but I loved it. I ate it all up. This was my first Kate Stewart book AND my first baseball sports romance read, and you know what? I can't believe I haven't jumped on that a long time ago. A second chance between baseball star Ren Makavoy and publicist Erica seems to be back on the table when Erica's boss assigns her to work on Ren's tattered public image. It wasn't a heartfelt reunion, and they both want to be as far away from each other as possible, but they have jobs to do—jobs they love—and they'll just have to suck it up. While I've mentioned the angst, there was some great banter, chemistry between the two, and just overall feels. I wanted to know why they broke up, and I really wanted them to get back together again. And that ending. Ahhhhh!
Tropes: Second Chance, Sports—Baseball POV: Dual POV, First Person
If you're a fan of sports romance, you're going to enjoy Team Player. You can choose a novella based on your mood—whether you want to laugh or make your heart ache with a little bit of angst—or sport. The one thing they have in common is they're all hot.
New Adult plus Pride and Prejudice is my idea of a happy read. By now, I think it’s obvious how much I love P&P, so to read a modern-day adaptation in this genre was such a fun experience. Relatable, fresh yet still so familiar, All the Things I Know offers a loyal telling of the classic, but with its own twists and tales to share.
Fresh out of college, art history major Lizzie Venetidis moves a few states away to Seattle to live with her lawyer sister Jane, and take control of her life. Turns out adulting is not a walk in the park, and with distractions along the way, Lizzie’s even more unsure of what path she should choose or if she’d fail is she actually chose a path.
Along the way they meet Fitzwilliam Darcy, an arrogant yet irresistible man, and his best friend Chip Bishop, making the Venetidis’ lives more complicated than they need. Lizzie and Darcy’s attraction grows each day they see each other, but with misunderstandings and issues here and there, it might take this couple a long time to see eye to eye.
Of course, I loved the modern-day interpretation of what happens between Darcy and Lizzie. The misunderstandings, the ‘Hunsford’ proposal, everything. The banters and interactions perfectly showed the progress in their relationship, and while the story is written in Lizzie’s perspective, we can still see glimpses of when Darcy fell in love with her. And y’all know Darcy falls hard. My man. Ugh.
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What am I going to do with you?” I say, rubbing my thumb over his knuckles. “Keep me, I hope,” he sleepily replies in my ear. Like there’s any doubt.
While I loved the bumbling courtship/romance between Lizzie and Darcy, I think my favorite about this book was the growth Lizzie—and even Jane—had to go through. I don’t agree with some of Lizzie’s thoughts and decisions, but I enjoyed reading her thoughts, seeing how she goes on. I think it was a very authentic look inside a 22-year-old’s brain.
The characters were well-written, and they all managed to escape becoming one-dimensional. Lizzie’s parents especially. Their personalities and background were huge factors in how Lizzie and Jane navigated adulthood.
A lot of people will relate to this story. Lizzie and her doubts and wrong impressions, her relationship with her mother, the siblings' relationship with their parents, the effects of a messy divorce on children, and many more.
Ms. Ryan did a great job of translating the classic into the present with timely changes making All the Things I Know unique to the original. The characters stayed true to their roots, but the story still found its own voice.
Tropes: Hate to Love, Friends with Benefits POV: First Person, Female POV Standalone: Yes
Don't get me wrong. I enjoyed this, and I'm sure anyone looking for a quick sexy read would enjoy this, too. But aside from the "Surprise! My 3 stars!
Don't get me wrong. I enjoyed this, and I'm sure anyone looking for a quick sexy read would enjoy this, too. But aside from the "Surprise! My new client/publicist was my one night stand!", there really wasn't any conflict in the story. I was expecting something to happen before the ending, but the story went on like this: One Night Stand, They Meet Again, They Work Together, They Finally Sleep Together (again), They Date But Also Work Together, The End.
So while I enjoyed reading about alphahole CEO Ryan Dalton and sassy publicist Penelope Lauren, I was looking for something more. I thought we were going to see more of Penelope's d*ck of an ex-boyfriend, Sebastian Drew, but he and everything else pretty much disappeared.
The sex is well-written as always, and their interactions were funny, so if you want a quick, funny, and sexy read, you might enjoy Cocky Client.
Tropes: One Night Stand, Office Romance POV: First Person, Dual POV Standalone:Yes...more
A Very Austen Christmas is a wonderful collection of novellas about our favorite Austen characters. It’s whimsical, sweet, and entertaining—everything I want in a holiday read. I’ve only read the first three stories because I don’t usually read JAFF (Jane Austen Fan Fiction) that is not Pride and Prejudice or Persuasion. Among the three I’ve read, I think my favorite is The Matchmaker’s Christmas since the story featured not just Mr. Darcy and Elizabeth, but other Austen characters, as well.
Her Christmas Gift
Absolutely adorable! In this novella, Elizabeth spends the holidays in Hunsford with Charlotte who is expecting. She, Charlotte and her sister Maria end up staying at Rosings Park when Mr. Collins gets scarlet fever and Lady C collapses after an argument with Elizabeth (it’s an eventful visit). When Anne summons their doctor to check on Lady C and Mr. Collins, Elizabeth is stuck in an awkward situation when she has not one, but two jilted suitors in the same vicinity—Mr. Darcy and a certain Thomas Jones, the Darcy family physician and Elizabeth’s childhood friend.
The banter between E & D in this novella is so adorable! They find a surprising and inconspicuous matchmaker in a character who shone in this story. You can see the difference between the two suitors, who really cared about E and who cared more about himself. I had an interesting conversation with Ms. Helm about the inspiration behind Thomas, the infuriating man, and it’s an unfortunate fact that there are a lot of men like him who can blind a person with his charm and flowery words.
The Matchmaker’s Christmas
My favorite novella in the anthology! E&D + our favorite matchmaker, and a few other guests. Just before Darcy and the Bingleys leave Netherfield, they have unexpected visitors who refuse to leave. Apparently, they received an invitation from Mr. Bingley, and they’re all distantly related to a woman called ‘Aunt Jane’.
The things that are happening to everyone at Netherfield seem to be a work of Providence, or maybe even the mysterious ‘Aunt Jane’, and Mr. Darcy and Elizabeth are starting to think so.
Lots of fun and crazy things happen in this story, and I had a lot of fun reading it! I was grinning at the end of the story.
No Better Gift
When Mr. Darcy goes back to Netherfield to pick up a gift for his sister, he is baffled to see a deserted Meryton, making him think the worst. He doesn’t go to Longbourn, tempted as he is to check on Elizabeth and make sure she’s alright, and goes straight to Netherfield. It’s the surprise of his life when he sees Elizabeth at the barn, mucking at the stable. She updates him on the recent events that led her to Netherfield, and Darcy ends up staying with her to help her.
Staying together to tend to patients builds a bond, and in this instance, gives two people the chance to clear the air.
This novella is sweet and equally adorable, and I swooned just thinking about a charitable and kind Mr. Darcy. I swoon every time I think of Darcy, really, but even more so when he’s being an amazing human being.
So, there you have it! If you’re looking for a fun holiday read featuring beloved Austen characters, especially Mr. Darcy and Elizabeth, you’ll enjoy reading A Very Austen Christmas.
Man Hands is a hilarious, hot, over the top romantic comedy about a girl who loves balls and a guy who’s not afraid to get his hands dirty. It's HGTV + all the cooking shows in the world, and I'm obsessed. The story has two great characters, food, tools, and lots of sexy times.
Brynn was such an enjoyable character to get to know. I especially love seeing her writing on her food blog. She's funny, passionate about food, and can sometimes get insecure about herself. Getting out of a marriage can do that to a person, especially when a marriage that already lacked passion dissolves into nothing but dust. It doesn't help that she loses her job after it, too, since her old boss was her ex-husband's father.
Her friends want to bring back the skip in her step, and they think the only way it'll come back is if she gets laid by someone who is nothing like her type. This is where our hero jumps in. Or rather, Brynn jumps on him. And I mean that literally. At a party, things happen that lead to her jumping the first stranger that makes eye contact with her, she's just lucky enough it's someone as hot and manly—definitely not her usual type—as Tom.
Tom, the host of the hit TV show 'Mr. Fixit Quick', hasn't had the best of luck in the love department, either. Coming out of a failed proposal and and an end of relationship, he didn't know he'd jump into a new relationship, but sometimes it jumps out to you out of nowhere...a.k.a. Brynn.
I loved reading about him, too. Aside from the whole handyman thing, which is hot btw, he's caring, thoughtful, and so darn adorable.
Brynn and Tom's courtship, if you could even call it that, is not a walk in the park. And it's definitely not conventional. They start whatever they have totally out of order, and you can expect everything else to arrive in the different—or maybe perfect—order, too. And that makes it perfect.
They have some pretty funny banter and interactions, and basically they're an adorable bunch. I love how they get along and get each other's quirks, and I love how they support each other so much.
It took me a while to write a review for this book because I wanted to share the story and my love for it without giving too much, but all I can say is if you're looking for a romantic comedy, you're looking at it.
I've only read a few of Sarina Bowen's books but loved all of them, so I was excited to get my hands on this one. Of Tanya Eby, I've listened and loved the audiobooks she's narrated. Their combination made the tone of this story completely different from Sarina's works. It's an interesting combo, these two authors, but it works, it's fun, and it's hilarious. In the words of the great mighty Thor, "I like it. ANOTHER!"
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I can't wait for Braht and Ash, Tom and Brynn's best friends, to star in their own book!
Fans of Poppy Dune and Helena Hunting will love this new book full of antics that will make you howl with laughter, hungry for some delicious dips and balls, and fan yourself with all that sexual tension.
Tropes: One Night Stand, Fake Engagement POV: First Person, Dual POV Standalone: Yes
Don't get me wrong. The story seems interesting enough and the narrative was engaging. There was a bit of marriage of c2 'it's not you, it's me' stars
Don't get me wrong. The story seems interesting enough and the narrative was engaging. There was a bit of marriage of convenience thrown in there, too, although not as much as I would have liked. But it just wasn't for me.
Nixie Rowland ran away and changed her name to get away from a controlling and abusive ex. As she was walking, she was almost assaulted by two men but was saved by a handsome stranger, Nash Knight. He brought her to his penthouse and has his doctor check on her. That's the start of their connection. Nash flirts with Nixie constantly and Nixie mostly ignores it, but the guy knows how to charm. Unbeknownst to them, they both continue to suffer losses from the 9/11 tragedy—Nash lost his brother who was deployed abroad and Nixie lost both her parents.
When Nash finds out Nixie might be in danger, he does everything he can to protect her. But they're facing an unstable man who's desperate to get ahold of Nixie's inheritance, and he'll do everything to get it.
I know there's some alpha male thing going on here, but I'm not buying it. For me, Nash is just as bad as Nixie's ex, but the difference is he has the money and he's not a psycho with an addiction to gambling. He pushes her to do things she doesn't want to do, follows her/have his driver follow her around, forces his way into her life that, for me, is not at all sexy.
And Nixie frustrated me just as much. You don't have to be headstrong to be strong. Sometimes strength is admitting you need help and you can't do it on your own. She attracts danger because she doesn't fucking think. Excuse my French. She thinks she can do things on her own and just... ugh... I can't. I can't. And this isn't a one-time occurrence for her either.
I almost dropped this books a few times, but still managed to finish it. There were some good points, like when Nash's friends welcomed Nixie into their group, and I really liked how the tragedy of 9/11 hovered over them constantly. The grief felt real and relatable, and I felt for them.
I'm sure others will like this, but I have a low tolerance for damsels in distress and controlling men.
Tropes: Marriage of Convenience, Alpha Male, Damsel in Distress POV:First Person, Dual POV Standalone:Yes
*ARC received in exchange for an honest review....more
FBI Agent Max Carter needs a fake girlfriend to bring to his family's place for Christmas, and he's found the one in new temporary neighbor Gina Castillo. When he catches her in the act of sneaking a dog in the building, he keeps her secret and helps her hide it from the landlord.
He knows Gina is perfect for the role—she needs his help and she'll be out of his life once Gina's friend and the original person leasing one the room in the building comes back. But being the meticulous person that he is, Max proposes a dry run at one work event to see if they can successfully pull off the whole fauxmance scheme.
They spend time together to make the fake relationship look realistic, and they realize they actually enjoy each other's company, even if Max and Gina are complete opposites. While Max has a stable job and lives a well-controlled life, Gina works multiple part-time jobs and enjoys chaos and strives in it. While one is left-brained with his numbers, the other is right-brained with her art.
Each day they spend together blurs the line between fake and real, and Max and Gina don't know if they can have a real relationship with their differences in life.
I thought the whole FBI thing has more to it than it was shown, so I was a bit disappointed with that. It also bothered me that Gina just assumed Max would be okay that she'd decorate his place when they barely knew each other. I think she was overstepping her bounds.
Max obviously has symptoms of OCD, and I felt bad for him that his family made fun of him and his 'quirks', which, unfortunately, happens more often than what we'd like to people suffering from mental disorders. He's not used to letting go of control, and it was nice to see him take baby steps with Gina.
Overall, I still enjoyed The Attraction Equation. It had low angst and drama, and lots of sweet and steamy moments between Gina and Max. Plus, there's a cute dog named T-Bone!
If you're looking for a quick but fun fake relationship romance between two people with seemingly opposite personalities, you might enjoy The Attraction Equation.
The V Card showcases a seamless blending of the writing styles of two authors known for their tempting and hilarious novels. This story is filled with humor, and heart, with little drama and lots of steam. A perfect read if you're looking to laugh, swoon, and fall in love. Since one of the characters loves making lists, let me share my own list as to why this book was a hit for me:
REASONS WHY I LOVED THE V CARD
1. Brother's Best Friend, Friends to Lovers romance
Graham Campbell, the CEO of lingerie company Adored, was the best friend of CJ's brother Sean. They grew up together, started the company together, and were the thickest of thieves until Sean passed away. With the loss of CJ's brother and Graham's best friend, they gave their time and support to each other, eventually becoming closer than when they were young. You know Graham is never going to hurt CJ intentionally, and the love is already there between them; it just wasn't romantic before, at least not on Graham's part. I love seeing friends become more, because there's already a strong foundation and some pretty strong affection between them.
2. The pacing of the story
A 7-day tryst is a recipe for an insta-love story, but it never felt that way when I was reading The V Card. From the start of the story, you can easily tell how close CJ and Graham are and how long they've known each other, so it was easy to get swept into the romance. They didn't jump head first into falling in love but waded their way into it with their sexual and non-sexual bonding moments.
3. Perfect balance of sweet and sexy
You'd think this would be more focused on the sex, since the story is about Graham teaching CJ about it, but this book has its fair share of swoon-worthy and adorable moments between Graham and CJ. Even during their trysts, you can feel their bond and care for each other. How easy it is for them to laugh and talk about everything. I love it.
4. Caroline Jessica "CJ" Murphy
I love her. Absolutely adore her. CJ confident, sweet, caring, and has a great sense of humor. I love her shirts, quirky accessories, her own sense of style. I've read contemporary romance books where the virgin heroine is too innocent and clueless at 25 and will only become something more when she finally meets a man. CJ is nothing like that. She's inquisitive, a go-getter, and comfortable in her own skin. Plus, I love how much she loves her—and her brother's—cat, Stephen King.
5. Graham Campbell
Another hero to swoon over! Graham is a man who, as Drake says, "started from the bottom now we here". This man has been married to his job for a long time, but you know it's not about the money. He's passionate about his business, his products, and women. It's not a secret that Graham was a bit of a womanizer, but he's not disrespectful and misogynistic about it, pretty similar to Lauren Blakely's heroes. Plus, his affection for CJ is so authentic and adorable, gah. GAH. Then when the romantic feels comes pouring in, GAHHHH. I am a pile of mush. And the thing he did before the happy ending. Ahhhh. I had a stupid grin on my face during a special moment at the arena.
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She's taught me something so much more vital than what I've shown her. She's taught me how it feels to fall in love."
Kudos to Lauren Blakely and Lili Valente for giving me—and I suspect, a lot of people—something I didn't know I wanted, a fantastic collaboration! I loved both their works and was more than pleased with The V Card. I'm afraid I'm spoiled now, so pretty please, with a cherry on top, won't the two of you write together again?
Tropes: Brother's Best Friend, Virgin Heroine, Childhood Friends, Friends to Lovers POV: First Person, Dual POV Standalone: Yes
Saving It by Monica Murphy is a cute young adult romance about a girl helping her best friend find someone to help him lose his virginity but instead finds themselves falling for each other instead.
Eden Sumner and Joshua Evans are thick as thieves. When Josh asks her to help him lose his virginity—no, not by her—she ends up saying yes. Now that they’re trying to look for the lucky girl to pop Josh’s cherry, they’re both starting to see things they’ve never noticed about the other before. But really, the truth is they’re starting to acknowledge the things they pretended not to notice about the other.
Eden and Josh’s friendship was adorable. So was Josh and Abraham’s, his other best friend, and Eden and Molly’s, Eden’s other best friend. They annoy each other at times but at the end of the day, they love them anyway.
Eden and Josh can tell each other literally everything and know they will always have each other’s backs. That’s the reason why they’re so afraid to take the leap. Their friendship is so solid and they’ve been there for each other for so long that if they complicate it with hooking up and being more than friends, they might risk losing each other it all goes south.
I think since the whole story was focused on their burgeoning romance amidst the whole ‘Josh loses his virginity’ plan, we didn’t see much of who Josh and Eden were as people, only glimpses. I would have liked it more if we saw that, like their families. All I know is Eden is annoyed with her little brother, Josh’s mother has a boyfriend and she’s out a lot.
The ending was cute though!!! Josh, so adorable with his secret obsession.
Saving It was a quick, fun read with great friendship and a cute romance that young adult readers who enjoy the friends to lovers trope will enjoy.
Tropes: Friends to Lovers, Childhood Friends, Wingman POV: First Person, Dual POV Standalone: Yes
I liked the blurb and was hoping for something light with some great banter but this book is angstier than I thought. It's a standalone, buDNF it 80%.
I liked the blurb and was hoping for something light with some great banter but this book is angstier than I thought. It's a standalone, but there are times it feels like it isn't because there are some things you won't get unless you read the first book. And if you're like me and you haven't read the first book in this standalone series, you're going to get confused at times, too. The affair thing they had was barely discussed. The beginning of the story felt like watching a show on the fourth or fifth episode, and I couldn't keep up and wasn't interested enough to want to know.
I couldn't connect with the characters and just couldn't see the attraction beyond lust and the affection of people who knew each other when they were kids.
I'm 100% sure others will like this. It's just another 'it's me, it's not you' situation.
Full review to follow.
*ARC received in exchange for an honest review...more
Let me tell you a story about a girl who underestimated a book. She took a certain book at face value and saw it as a mere romantic comedy. Not that there’s anything wrong with that. The girl absolutely loves romantic comedies. But then she read it and got so much more than what she expected. The story had amazing characters, fantastic banter, and sizzling sexual tension, but there was also angst and drama in the mix. The girl fell in love.
When Vicky Nelson adopted Smuckers, the dog of the old lady who believed she was a dog whisperer after the old lady passed away, she never expected to act as a major stockholder of a multi-million company in behalf of said dog. But she does as it turns out the old lonely lady living in a shabby apartment is actually from a wealthy and powerful family.
Henry Locke worked his heart out to make their empire grow into the powerhouse it is. When his mother leaves more than half of the company to a dog and some scammer, he’ll work even harder to get it back. Even it means he has to seduce her. He’ll just have to make sure he doesn’t fall in love with her.
There’s something about Vicky he can’t resist, but there’s a mystery to her, something she wishes to never be known by anyone, especially not Henry. Vicky knows the more she gets involved with Henry, the more possible it is for her secrets to all come out.
Annika Martin gives us a gem of a book wrapped in a seemingly absurd yet hilarious premise. An old woman bequeaths the family business to her dog, who is then represented by a girl the old woman believed to be a dog whisperer. But then there’s mystery surrounding the heroine’s past, drama, and an issue a lot of women have suffered through. That certain aspect is very timely with what’s happening today.
And my goodness, the author knows how to throw in her punches out of nowhere. Amidst the humor are heartwarming (and breaking) scenes that honestly put tears in my eyes. I sniffled in a few scenes here and there and my heart hurt.
I wanted a strong heroine, and I got that from Vicky in spades. She raised her sister on her own and went through a lot at such a young age, but she’s still so strong and resilient. Her pain didn’t break her, although it made her keep a wall to protect herself.
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Nobody will fight for you quite like you will fight for you.”
I wasn’t a huge fan of Henry at the start of the story, but he ended up completely converting me. This man had a lot of layers to him, and I loved all of it. Good lord what he did to win Vicky back. I’m still swooning, y’all. Excuse me while I go pick up my heart on the floor.
And their chemistry! I loved the barbs they threw at each other and loved it even more when clothes are thrown off. The build-up to the inevitable sexy timez got me all hot and bothered. And the sex. Wow.
I would have wanted a little bit more before the story ended. It felt a bit rushed (although there were some super swoony bits there and a resolution I’ve been waiting for in that part), so that’s why I rated the book 4 stars.
This is my first Annika Martin read and definitely not my last. She’s gained a new fan in me. If you love hilarious enemies to lovers stories with its fair share of angst and drama, then you’ll love reading Most Eligible Bastard.
Tropes: Enemies to Lovers, Inheritance, Boss/CEO POV: First Person, Dual POV Standalone: Yes
Thirty Day Boyfriend was a cute, entertaining, and sexy read that made me laugh and feel giddy. While it is a novella, the book didn’t feel as fast-paced as I thought it would. The story had great banter, well-written sex scenes, and two lovable characters wrapped up in one of my favorite tropes.
Two years. Emily Johnson has been working as the executive assistant of the real “Wolf of Wall Street” Nicholas A. Wolf for two years, and she’s ready to go. As the right-hand woman of Mr. Wolf, she is contract-bound for two more years, so she’s trying to sneak around, find a way to leave, and finally work in a law firm like she’s always planned. But Nicholas is the best at his job for a reason. He’s always a few steps ahead, and so Emily is still stuck with him.
Nicholas A. Wolf has never had problems sealing deals, but he’s stuck in a rut when a company he wants to buy refuses to sell it to him. The current owner is apparently old-school and prefers to hand over his company who has the same values. A family man, he said. And so a reformed playboy, family man Nicholas shall be.
No one could play the role of his fiancée better than Emily, the one woman who knows him almost as much as he knows himself, so to convince her to agree on a thirty-day agreement, he offers her something she can’t refuse—freedom, and a very very generous severance pay.
I love both characters! Nicholas is the kind of hero I love. He’s powerful in his career, determined but not in a suffocating way, cocky but not insufferable, and secretly caring and sweet to the bones. Emily is just as lovable. She doesn’t cower to him, gives as much as Nicholas does, and is fiercely loyal to those she cares for.
The chemistry and sexual tension are palpable from start to finish, but what I love the most about Thirty Day Boyfriend is that it was shown not just through lust, but through their fantastic banter and basically all interactions. I’m 100% convinced they’re perfect for each other, and everything they did made me giggle and swoon.
I always cross my fingers whenever I read this author’s works since it’s been a hit-and-miss for me, but Thirty Day Boyfriend was definitely a hit. I would have wanted to read more about their families, especially the subplot about Nicholas’ brother, since that part felt a bit rushed and lacked introduction and air time. But the ending more than made up for it, and I finished reading the story a happy and satisfied girl.
Tropes: Fake Relationship, Boss-Employee, Hate to Love, Office Romance POV: First Person, Dual POV Standalone: Yes
He Loves Me…KNOT by RC Boldt is a sweet and beautiful second chance romance between two people who have always been meant to be but were separated for a few years only to find their way back to each other again.
Emma Jane Haywood and Knox Montgomery knew they were meant for each other and were finally going to spend the rest of their lives together…until she left him at the altar and out of everyone’s lives. Her decision to leave ruined her relationship with her father, and in turn, her family and everyone in her hometown.
She left town and moved to Jacksonville when Becket Jones, the quarterback for the NFL team in Jacksonville and eventually her best friend, helped her find a job she loves. Things have been going so well, and after eight years at her job, she’s close to getting a promotion as the new VP.
And that’s when Knox Montgomery comes back… as the new owner of the company where Emma Jane works. Now she has to fight for her position and promotion, and she has to fight to protect her heart from the man who broke her heart eight years ago.
First of all, I love that cover! It made me want to read the book the moment I saw it. The book was just as beautiful. The story jumps from past to present, so we’re able to see how the two fell in love and where it all went wrong.
There was a mystery as to why Emma Jane ran away, why she left Knox, and RC Boldt made it build up until the perfect time to reveal it. And I love that we saw Knox’s perspective on what happened as well, saw what he felt and what he was thinking after EJ left him at the altar.
Obviously, there was animosity between the two—especially on Knox’s end—when they reunited, but it didn’t take too long for that to go away. Knox obviously cares about EJ very much and vice versa, but they were both hurt. Knox was determined to make her squirm now that he’s the new owner of her workplace, but the man felt bad when he saw how hard she was working to keep her job and prove to him she deserved the promotion. And the feelings never really left for them, did it?
I love Knox and Emma Jane, as people and as a couple. I rooted for them from the very start, even when I didn’t know why Emma Jane left. Knox acted like a hardass when they saw each other again, but beneath that hard shell is the same man who’s always loved EJ. Swoon alert! I can talk about him all day, I swear. Such a handsome, caring, and wonderful man.
Emma Jane grew up with a controlling father who wanted to manipulate everything in her life, and when she finally found her freedom, it was at the cost of her heart and her relationship with everyone she loves. She still talks to her grandfather at times, but it’s not the same when she can’t go back to their hometown and see him. She stayed so strong and finally found her ground. I loved this character from start to finish and was so happy to see her growth.
Plus, a little shoutout to Becket Jones, best friend and side character of the year. He’s such a loyal and caring friend to Emma Jane. He barely knew her when they first met, but he was an angel in disguise. He was there the moment she ran away and the moment she found her way back to Knox. If I didn’t love Becket and his ‘Blue’ as friends and I didn’t ship Knox and EJ, I’d want him and EJ to end up together. But there are good things out there for you, Beck my love. Me, maybe? Haha! But seriously, I’m claiming Becket now.
The second chance story here is wrapped up in the huge belief in fate—that Emma Jane and Knox were meant to be, but the first time wasn’t the right time for them. Her grandfather believed that, Knox’s mother did, too; even the two of them eventually. I loved that!
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If you had to do it all over again, would you?” “Yes…I’d do it all over again.”
I do think one subplot was out of place or was not given enough “air time”. There wasn’t much emotional impact there because it came out of nowhere and was forgotten soon after.
Other than that, I absolutely enjoyed reading He Loves Me…KNOT.Despite some drama and pretty angsty scenes, the book was full of light-hearted and hilarious banter, great relationships between the main and side characters, and a strong and steady pace throughout. I loved all characters, even the side characters, and now I’m excited to read about Emma Jane’s best friend, Becket.
I’ve heard a lot of great things about RC Boldt, and I’m so glad I got the chance to finally experience it firsthand. I’m definitely keeping an eye out for her future books and will be adding her other books in my TBR list, as long as it is. Haha!
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Sometimes love just needs a second chance, when it wasn’t quite ready the first time around.”
Tropes: Second Chance, Boss-Employee, Highschool Sweethearts, Office Romance POV: First Person, Dual POV Standalone: Yes
Nissa | Of Pens and Pages Book Blog
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