*Book Tour* Hanging by a Thread by Jenna Sutton

Hanging by a Thread
Riley O'Brien & Co. #3

By: Jenna Sutton

Releasing June 7, 2016
Berkley Sensation

Synopsis 

Thirty-year-old Bebe Banerjee is desperate to get rid of two things: her fiancé and her virginity. Escaping her arranged marriage might be impossible, but she refuses to give her firsts to an entitled jerk who lives on another continent. Instead, she devises a plan that guarantees another man will get her momentous firsts. But she never imagined that man would be Cal O’Brien, the gorgeous heir to the Riley O’Brien & Co. denim empire…

Although Cal has always been fascinated by Bebe’s brilliant mind and beautiful eyes, he’s never pursued her. She can’t stand the sight of him, and every time they’re in the same room, they end up trading insults. Yet when he finds out about Bebe’s bold plan, he makes his move, unaware of her upcoming nuptials. He promises to make her firsts unforgettable, but he doesn’t know how hard it will be to forget her when their arrangement ends.

Link to Follow Tour:  

http://www.tastybooktours.com/2016/04/hanging-by-thread-riley-obrien-co-3-by.html

Goodreads Link: 

https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/26841662-hanging-by-a-thread

Goodreads Series Link: 

https://www.goodreads.com/series/139126-riley-o-brien-co

Buy Links:     

Amazon | B & N |Google | iTunes | Kobo

My Review

I received a free copy of this ebook in exchange for an honest review. 

This is the first book I've read by Sutton and I really liked it! I thought it was a very unique book and really fun. Bebe has a lot going on in her life that no one knows about. The biggest thing? She's engaged and hasn't told anyone other than her family, for very specific reasons. But as pressure builds for her to marry, she needs to find a way to get rid of her fiancé. She's always had a crush on her best friends brother, but hasn't told anyone that either.. and the feeling is mutual. It was really fun to watch Bebe and Cal interact with each other. It was a cute, steamy, refreshing book and I can't wait to read more from Sutton. I would definitely recommend this book to anyone looking for a really fun romance. 

About the Author

Jenna Sutton is a former award-winning journalist who traded fact for fiction when she began writing novels. Surprisingly, the research she conducted for her articles provided a lot of inspiration for her books.

Jenna is the author of the Riley O’Brien & Co. romances including All the Right Places and Coming Apart at the Seams. She has a Bachelor’s degree in Journalism from Texas Christian University and a Master’s degree in Integrated Marketing Communications from Northwestern University.

Jenna and her husband live in a 103-year-old house in Texas affectionately known as “The Money Pit”. You can find out more about her and her books by visiting www.jennasutton.com.

Author Links:  

Website | Facebook | Twitter | GoodReads

Rafflecopter Giveaway 

($50 Amazon Gift Card)

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[Review Tour] Wish List by Belinda Williams

Wish List
City Love #4

By: Belinda Williams 

Releasing May 26, 2016

Synopsis 

COULD THE WRONG MAN ON PAPER BE THE PERFECT MAN IN REAL LIFE?

Cate Harmon likes lists. While this may serve her well as a financial planner, her girlfriends think that creating a checklist for her ideal man is going a step too far. But she has one, and she’s sticking to it.

Cate has always dreamed of starting a family and settling down and yet she’s the only one of her close knit friendship group still unattached. But that doesn’t mean she’s going to lower her standards.

Enter Dave, a reformed bad boy with gorgeous hair and eyes the wrong color. Dave doesn’t tick any of the boxes on Cate’s list. It’s unthinkable that she would develop feelings for him, and yet … Cate finds herself being drawn to Dave in a way she’s never felt before.

Will Cate confront the reasons behind her list? Or will she risk losing a man who could be better than any list she could ever dream up?

This romance where opposites attract is perfect for fans of Rachel Gibson, Susan Mallery, Victoria Dahl, and Susan Elizabeth Phillips.

Link to Follow Tour:  

http://www.tastybooktours.com/2016/03/wish-list-city-love-4-by-belinda.html

Goodreads Link: 

https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/29746833-wish-list?ac=1&from_search=true

Goodreads Series Link:  

https://www.goodreads.com/series/154496-city-love

Buy Links:  

Amazon | B&N | Kobo | iTunes | GooglePlay | Momentum

My Review

I received a free copy of this ebook in exchange for an honest review. 

This is the first book I've read by Belinda Williams and I must say that I loved it! I didn't read the others in the series, and honestly didn't realize it was a series until I started reading. But that didn't take anything away from this story at all.  I really love how Cate has a list (whether in her mind or actually written down) about what would make the perfect person for her. Honestly, my husband and I are quite different and I think it makes life so much better! But Cate thinks she has an idea of what she wants, until she meets Dave. While she really likes him, he doesn't meet her criteria, so she questions whether to move forward. Meanwhile, she meets another guy who does meet everything on her list. Needless to say, she has a difficult decision ahead of her! 

This story was really cute and I loved reading every bit of it. I really want to go back and read the others in the series, regardless of knowing how they turn out. Williams has a way with writing that really grabbed me and her characters are so fun. I would definitely recommend this book to any other romance fan! I had a hard time putting it down! 

About the Author

Belinda is a marketing communications specialist and copywriter who allowed an addiction to romance and chick-lit to get the better of her. She was named a top ten finalist in the Romance Writers of Australia Emerald Award in both 2013 and 2014.

Her other addictions include music and cars. Belinda’s eclectic music taste forms the foundation of many of her writing ideas and her healthy appreciation for fast cars means she would not so secretly love a Lamborghini. For now she’ll have to settle with her son’s Hot Wheels collection and writing hot male leads with sports cars.

Belinda lives in Sydney and blogs regularly about writing and reading at www.belindawilliamsbooks.com

Author Links: Website | Facebook | Twitter | GoodReads

Giveaway 

(5 copies of THE BOYFRIEND SESSIONS, Book #1 City Love)

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[Review] *Blog Tour* Change of Heart by TJ Kline

Change of Heart
Healing Harts #5

By: T.J. Kline

Releasing May 10, 2016
Avon Impulse

Synopsis

Leah McCarran has never had anything but bad luck in her life, with the exception of her dream job, working as a therapist for at-risk youth at Heart Fire Ranch. But when her car breaks down on the side of the road and she finds herself stranded, the playboy who shows up to help, seems like the last person she can count on.

Gage Granger has risen above the circumstances of his youth, enough that people believe he has the Midas touch, especially in business. But when one costly mistake could send his reputation and his company into ruin, he needs some time to get his head on straight before he makes a decision that could affect hundreds of lives and heads to see his brother, near Heart Fire. The last thing he expected to find was a feisty therapist who needs his help, even if she won’t admit it.

Leah doesn’t want friends. There was only one person she let close - her high school counselor and the mentor who not only took her in but changed her life, and then she died. Leah doesn’t want that kind of hurt again so it’s easier to remain distant. But Gage is making it difficult. And finding out that he staying next door at Heart Fire Ranch isn’t making it any easier to avoid the kind man who is worming his way into her heart.

Gage sees the pain Leah’s trying so adamantly to hide but neither can help the attraction that begins to develop as they rescue two abandoned kittens and find they have far more in common than they believed. Gage helps her to move past her nightmarish past and she helps him realize that one mistake doesn’t define his worth.

Link to Follow Tour:  

http://www.tastybooktours.com/2016/04/change-of-heart-healing-harts-5-by-tj.html

Goodreads Link: 

https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/26206382-change-of-heart

Goodreads Series Link: 

https://www.goodreads.com/series/146550-healing-harts

Buy Links:   
Amazon | B & N | Google Play | iTunes | Kobo  

My Review

I received a free copy of this ebook in exchange for an honest review. 

I read the first book in this series, Heart's Desire, a while ago and I really liked it, so I was excited that I had the opportunity to read this one. Leah has had a really rough childhood and grew up in the foster system. She becomes a therapist to help other kids like herself, and hopefully change their lives. Gage also had a rough childhood, but he is now a successful businessman. When he meets Leah at Heart Fire Ranch, they learn that they have more in common that they originally thought. But both are a little worried about getting too close to each other, afraid they will mess it up. 

This is a really great romance story. Not only does it have the steamy romance, but the characters have deeper issues as well. It's definitely not just a fluff romance (not that there's anything wrong with those either!) I really enjoy Kline's writing and I think she does a great job of developing the characters and keeping you really involved in the story. I didn't want to stop reading because I wanted to know what happened next! I'm definitely a fan of this series and I can't wait to read more. I didn't read these in order (I think I missed the middle 3) but that doesn't take away from the story line at all. You can definitely read these as standalone, even though the characters appear throughout the series. 

About the Author 

T. J. Kline was raised competing in rodeos and Rodeo Queen competitions since the age of 14 and has thorough knowledge of the sport as well as the culture involved. She writes contemporary western romance for Avon Romance, including the Rodeo series and the Healing Harts series. She has published a nonfiction health book and two inspirational fiction titles under the name Tina Klinesmith. In her very limited spare time, T.J. can be found laughing hysterically with her husband, children, and their menagerie of pets in Northern California.

Author Links: Website | Facebook| Twitter | GoodReads 

GIVEAWAY

 $25.00 eGift Card to Choice Book Seller

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[Review] Interference by Sophia Henry

Interference by Sophia Henry
Series: Pilot's Hockey, #3
Publisher: Flirt
Publishing Date: June 7, 2016
Format: ARC, ebook
216 Pages
Links: Goodreads | Amazon | B&N

Synopsis 

Linden Meadows doesn’t back down from anyone, especially if her family’s involved. So when her little brother’s new hockey coach benches him in the middle of a game, Linden lets him have it. She also notices that the coach is way hotter than she expects, but Linden won’t let herself get burned by another athlete. Been there, done that—and had a kid at seventeen to show for it.

When Jason Taylor isn’t taking abuse from hockey moms, he’s patrolling the streets as a member of the Bridgeland PD. After Jason pulls Linden over for speeding, he begins to see that there’s more to her than a big mouth . . . or a lead foot. Their chemistry leads to good company, intense conversation, and an intimacy that pushes beyond the boundaries of friendship. And yet Linden’s decision to keep her now three-year-old son, Holden, is a painful reminder to Jason that his own mother gave him up for adoption.

Linden’s sure she’s found the man to round out their family. But when Holden’s deadbeat dad forces his way back into the picture, Jason starts to back off. He needs time—to heal, to grow, and to love with all his heart. 

My Review

I received a free copy of this book from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. 

This is the third book in the Pilot's Hockey series by Sophia Henry. I've read the other two and enjoyed those, so I really wanted to read this one. I'm also a big hockey fan and love stories that incorporate this sport into the story. This was a cute, short book by Henry that I enjoyed reading. It wasn't my favorite book, and the others in the series are better, but I still liked this one. I wish hockey had more of a role in this one and I feel like it's not really part of the Pilot's series since they're barely mentioned in here. I also wish the characters were developed a little more. We learned some interesting things about them, but they didn't capture me like some of her other characters have.

Despite all of this, I still thought this was a cute read and I'm glad I read it. I love romance stories and sometimes a quick read is exactly what I'm looking for. I do think people should read the others in this series first because they were better, but this is still a good read. 

[Review] We Were Liars by E. Lockhart

We Were Liars by E. Lockhart
Publisher: Delacorte Press
Publishing Date: May 13, 2014
Format: hardcover, library
227 Pages
Links: Goodreads | Amazon | B&N

Synopsis 

A beautiful and distinguished family.

A private island.

A brilliant, damaged girl; a passionate, political boy.

A group of four friends—the Liars—whose friendship turns destructive.

A revolution. An accident. A secret.

Lies upon lies.

True love.

The truth.

We Were Liars is a modern, sophisticated suspense novel from National Book Award finalist and Printz Award honoree E. Lockhart. 

Read it.

And if anyone asks you how it ends, just LIE. 

My Review

I know that what I'm about to write is not the view of most people who have read this book, but I'm going to say it anyways. I didn't like this book. There, I said it. I felt the beginning was really slow and I couldn't get into the authors writing style. But I wanted to keep going because I've heard such good things about it. Once I found out what the secret was, I didn't feel any differently towards this book. It still didn't click with me and I wasn't overly excited to keep reading. I did finish it, but I felt like this book had so much more potential. Just not a fit for me. 

[Review] Friction by Sandra Brown

Friction by Sandra Brown
Publisher: Grand Central
Publishing Date:
Format: hardcover
Pages
Links: Goodreads | Amazon | B&N
Goodreads rating: 5 stars

Synopsis 

Crawford Hunt wants his daughter back. Following the death of his wife four years ago, Crawford, a Texas Ranger, fell into a downward spiral that left him relegated to deskwork and with his five-year-old daughter Georgia in the custody of her grandparents. But Crawford has cleaned up his act, met all the court imposed requirements, and now the fate of his family lies with Judge Holly Spencer.

Holly, ambitious and confident, temporarily occupies the bench of her recently deceased mentor. With an election upcoming, she must prove herself worthy of making her judgeship permanent. Every decision is high-stakes. Despite Crawford's obvious love for his child and his commitment to being an ideal parent, Holly is wary of his checkered past. Her opinion of him is radically changed when a masked gunman barges into the courtroom during the custody hearing. Crawford reacts instinctually, saving Holly from a bullet. 

But his heroism soon takes on the taint of recklessness. The cloud over him grows even darker after he uncovers a horrifying truth about the courtroom gunman and realizes that the unknown person behind the shooting remains at large . . .and a threat. 

Catching the real culprit becomes a personal fight for Crawford. But pursuing the killer in his customary diehard fashion will jeopardize his chances of gaining custody of his daughter, and further compromise Judge Holly Spencer, who needs protection not only from an assassin, but from Crawford himself and the forbidden attraction between them. 

FRICTION will keep you on the edge of your seat with breathtaking plot twists and the unforgettable characters that make Sandra Brown one of the world's best-loved authors. It is an extraordinary novel about the powerful ties that bind us to the ones we love and the secrets we keep to protect them.

My Review

OMG. I loved this book! I read it in two days and it was so hard to put down to go to bed! It kept me hooked from the very first sentence. Sandra Brown is one of those authors whose books I must buy when they come out. She never disappoints and her romantic suspense novels are my absolute favorite. Crawford is a really sympathetic character. He's been through a really hard time over the last few years after his wife died and he lost custody of his daughter. There's just something about him that is really intriguing. I also really liked Holly and she takes her job very seriously. But really, Joe? I hated him! I may have hated him more than some of the other more obvious characters in this book, and Neal came in a close second. But, Joe? Ugh. He made me want to throw the book across the room! Now Conrad on the other hand, Crawford's dad, I really liked as well. He's clearly got a few problems of his own, but he straightens out a little. 

Throughout this whole book, my emotions were up and down. I wanted to cry so many times because of the struggles Crawford was going through. I practiced as an attorney in family law for a while, so I definitely understood and empathized with his situation and the difficult time he had with the court system. My heart was broken for him as he tried to get his daughter back. 

As the events unfolded, I was really stunned! Like usual, there were a few things that I could pick up on, but there were a lot of surprises! I remember yelling, "WHAT?!" during a certain part of this that I really can't hint at! 

Seriously. Pick up this book. Read all of her books (especially the romantic suspense ones). They're so good! 

[Review] When I'm Gone by Emily Bleeker

When I'm Gone by Emily Bleeker
Publisher: Lake Union Publishing
Publishing Date: March 15, 2016
Format: ebook, ARC
366 Pages
Links: Goodreads | Amazon | B&N

Synopsis

Dear Luke, First let me say—I love you… I didn’t want to leave you…

Luke Richardson has returned home after burying Natalie, his beloved wife of sixteen years, ready to face the hard job of raising their three children alone. But there’s something he’s not prepared for—a blue envelope with his name scrawled across the front in Natalie’s handwriting, waiting for him on the floor of their suburban Michigan home.

The letter inside, written on the first day of Natalie’s cancer treatment a year ago, turns out to be the first of many. Luke is convinced they’re genuine, but who is delivering them? As his obsession with the letters grows, Luke uncovers long-buried secrets that make him question everything he knew about his wife and their family. But the revelations also point the way toward a future where love goes on—in written words, in memories, and in the promises it’s never too late to keep.

My Review

I received a free copy of this ebook from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. 

All I can say right now is wow. I just finished reading this book and I have a feeling it's going to stick with me for a while. I really couldn't believe some of the things that happened in here! Luke's wife Natalie passes away after battling cancer, leaving him with three children to raise on his own. Her best friend, Annie, is there to help, along with a student Natalie went to college with, Jessie. Right after Natalie's funeral, Luke starts receiving letters from Natalie, written during her last few months of life. Throughout these letters, Luke learns that his wife had secrets, and he's not sure how he feels about that. The more the letters reveal, the more Luke feels like he didn't really know his wife and he goes on a search to find the truth. 

When I first started reading this book, I honestly thought it was going to be like P.S. I Love You. And while I liked that movie (I'll admit, I didn't read the book), I didn't want to read something else exactly like it. But I gave it a few more chapters and realized that it wasn't anything like it, other than letters coming from your spouse who passed. There were a few things in here that I had a slight idea about, but I was genuinely surprised about a lot of this! I found my self yelling out loud, "WHAT?!" and "Seriously?!" Good thing my husband wasn't home to think I'm crazy! Ha! But honestly, I was really surprised by some of the events in here and I really liked how this book was written. Luke was really easy to connect with and Annie and Jessie were great supporting characters. There were so many things going on in this story that it was easy to stay hooked the entire time. I would highly recommend this one! I haven't read Bleeker's other book yet, Wreckage, but I plan to now! 

[Review] Just a Girl by Ellie Cahill

Just a Girl by Ellie Cahill

Publisher: Loveswept

Publishing Date: June 21, 2016

Format: ebook, ARC

224 Pages

Links: Goodreads | Amazon | B&N 

Synopsis 

After getting kicked out of her own band—by her own boyfriend—Presley Mason finds herself back in Wisconsin, helping her parents run their renowned music store. Instead of belting out powerhouse vocals to sold-out crowds in L.A., she’s stocking shelves and inspecting rental violins. But the shop isn’t all bad: When she’s vacuuming up late one night, she bumps into the guitar teacher with the smoldering amber eyes and the killer tattoo. And that’s when things take an interesting turn.

Presley soon finds that Paul Kellerman is as good in bed as he is on guitar. So why isn’t he stoked to share his band, Jukebox Bleu, with her? Turns out Paul has crippling stage fright, which he’s been self-medicating without much success. But when Jukebox Bleu’s lead singer gets called for military service, the other members beg Presley to front them. Even though she swore never to mix men with music again, the temptation to perform is almost as intense as her chemistry with Paul. Now Presley must decide what’s more important: a second chance at love . . . or rock stardom.

My Review

I received a free copy of this ebook from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.

Cute, cute book! I requested this one from Netgalley because I previously read Call Me, Maybe by Cahill (review here) and I really enjoyed it. Plus I've heard great things about When Joss Met Matt, so I really wanted to read this! Plus, this book takes place in a city only about an hour from where I live in Wisconsin! Not too many books are set in Wisconsin, so this was really fun for me. 

I honestly haven't read too many books about singers or rock bands, so this was a little new for me. But still really fun. I was actually jealous with how well these characters can play musical instruments. I'm always envious of people who can play because I can't at all. Presley is a talented musician whose been kicked out of her band and dumped by her boyfriend. She goes back to working at her parents music store and meets one of the instructors, Paul. They develop a really steamy attraction and Presley learns he's in a band. Throughout the story, they really complement each other well and support each other. It's a really cute new adult novel and I'm definitely a fan of Cahill's writing. She creates really fun, cute stories that I love to read. I can't wait to read more of what she has written and will write in the future. 

[Review] Just Say Maybe by Tracy March

Just Say Maybe by Tracy March
Series: Thistle Bend, #2
Publisher: Loveswept
Publishing date: May 3, 2016
Format: ebook, ARC
240 Pages
Links: Goodreads | Amazon | B&N

Synopsis 

Real estate lawyer Holly Birdsong’s hike in the Rockies takes an unexpected turn when a smokin’-hot stranger tumbles off his bike and into her path. Turns out he’s purchasing the abandoned Lodge at Wild Rose Ridge, and Holly agrees to take him on as a client—despite her family’s traumatic history with the previous owner, who shamelessly abused the town’s goodwill at every turn. But when their professional relationship turns personal, Holly must reconcile the past with her hopes for the future.

Adding the rustic lodge to his portfolio of adventure properties isn’t just a business decision for Bryce Bennett. The rugged mountains also offer a killer setting for his extreme-sports camps for at-risk teens. What’s not in the blueprints is finding a kindred spirit in his irresistible lawyer, even if she seems apprehensive about getting involved in the deal. Bryce’s plan to ease her mind just might work, as long as no one discovers his secret. Yet he can’t stand hiding the truth from the woman who makes him want to build something permanent: a happily ever after.

My Review

I received a free copy of this ebook from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. 

This was a really cute, quick read. I haven't read anything else by March, including the first book in this series. But I don't think that took away from the experience. It seems that the books are standalone within the series, and you can read later ones without first reading the early ones. Holly is an attorney working in her home town of Thistle Bend when Bryce comes along. He hires her to become his attorney for a real estate purchase, which causes a lot of problems and brings up bad memories in the small town. Bryce has his own reasons for wanting to buy and renovate the lodge, but he doesn't know the entire story. 

I thought this story was pretty good and original but I wasn't super interested in the the lodge issues. I'm not sure why, but I didn't connect with the problems or feelings the townspeople had towards it. Unfortunately, that takes away a little of the romance side of the story, but not enough for me not to enjoy it. It was still really cute and fun to read. I really liked Holly (it doesn't hurt that we're both attorneys!) and Bryce was very adventurous. I'm very interested in reading more by March, so this won't be my last! 

[Mini Review] Crazy About Love by Cassie Mae

Crazy About Love by Cassie Mae
Series: All About Love, #3
Publisher: Loveswept
Publishing Date: June 14, 2016
Format: ebook, ARC
270 Pages
Links: Goodreads | Amazon | B&N

Synopsis 

Single again on Valentine’s Day, struggling actor Alec Tucker agrees to help out his longtime friend—and unrequited love—Theresa Jones by filling in as one of the bachelors for her company’s charity auction. Alec figures it couldn’t hurt to meet someone new. Still, working with Theresa reminds him of all the reasons he never got over her. So it feels a little bittersweet when, out of nowhere, a beautiful young street artist buys a date with him for a whopping four grand.

Little does he know, Theresa’s had a major change of heart. She’s crushed when someone else wins a date with Alec—but she isn’t going down without a fight. After a pep talk from her best friend, Theresa makes a desperate move that goes against her better judgment . . . and things only get crazier from there. But with Alec ready to move on and Theresa afraid she’s pushed him away for good, maybe a little crazy is exactly what they need—before they both miss their shot. 

My Mini Review

I received a free copy of this ebook in exchange for an honest review. 

This was a cute, quirky book that I enjoyed reading. I haven't ready anything else by Cassie Mae (aka Becca Ann) and I'm glad my first glimpse was this book. I really love books where friends become more, especially if they've been pining for each other for a while! One thing I did think was a little weird is how Theresa followed Alec on his date. I really wish she would have told him how she felt about him, especially since she had an idea that he felt the same way. But this is also what made the book quirky and fun. All in all, I thought this was a cute book and I'd recommend it to my friends!

[Review] The Asset by Anna del Mar

The Asset by Anna del Mar
Series: Wounded Warrior, #1
Publisher: Carina Press
Publishing Date: Feb. 22, 2016
Format: ebook, ARC
Links: Goodreads | Amazon | B&N

Synopsis 

Ash Hunter knows what it is to run. A SEAL gravely injured in Afghanistan, he’s gone AWOL from the military hospital. Physically and mentally scarred, he returns home to his grandmother’s isolated cottage—and finds a beautiful, haunted stranger inside.

Like recognizes like.

Lia Stewart’s in hiding from the cartel she barely escaped alive, holed up in this small Rocky Mountain town. Surviving, but only just. Helping the wounded warrior on her doorstep is the right thing to do…it’s loving him that might get them both killed.

Soon, Ash realizes he’s not the only one tormented by the past. Pushing the limits of his broken body, testing the boundaries of her shattered soul, he’ll protect Lia until his last breath.

My Review

I received a free copy of this ebook in exchange for an honest review. 

This book was really fast-paced! I swear, from the minute I picked it up, things were always happening. Rarely was there any down time and it really fit the style of the story. I liked that it was fast moving and there wasn't a ton of detail about things that didn't really matter. When Lia and Ash meet, Lia is very hesitant to talk to him, much less let him in her house. And let me tell you, she's got good reason not to trust anyone. But once she realizes that he is a former friend's grandson, she takes a chance and decides to help him. As time goes on, they work with each other to get better, both physically, mentally, and emotionally. Everything comes to head at the end of the book when Lia's worst nightmare comes to life, and this time she has Ash to worry about as well. 

This is the first book I've read by del Mar and I really enjoyed it. I really liked both Ash and Lia and it was interesting to see how they interacted with each other. I thought it was really cute that Lia is such a lost and broken person, and she takes in stray animals who are injured and have no where else to go. Overall, a really good book; I enjoyed reading it. 

[Review] Falling for Her Bachelor by Robin Bielman

Falling for Her Bachelor by Robin Bielman
Series: Bachelor Auction, #2
Publisher: Tule Publishing
Publishing Date: April 12, 2016
Format: ebook, ARC
141 Pages
Links: Goodreads | Amazon | B&N

Synopsis 

When Navy firefighter Nick Palotay returns to Marietta to go on the bachelor auction block for a good cause, he expects it to be risk free. But when he needs someone safe to bid on him and his sister’s best friend is coaxed into stepping up, Nick isn’t prepared for the effect Cassidy has on him. She sends his mind to all kinds of dirty places…places his battered heart can’t afford.

Freelance photographer Cassidy Ware is in waaay over her head. She’s always been Nick’s other little sister, but she’s all grown up now and just a glance from him leaves her hot and bothered. Still, she can stay immune to his charms and keep him at an emotional distance because she’s got an agenda, too. She’ll help the too-handsome Nick with his charitable deed, and, in return, he’ll help her keep an unwelcome suitor at bay.

A deal’s a deal, but when their “business transaction” turns into more pleasure than duty, can they walk away from each other without losing what matters most?

My Review

I received a free copy of this ebook in exchange for an honest review. 

I've been a big fan of Robin Bielman's work for a while now and I love opening my email to find another one is on its way! This book was a really cute, fun, steamy book that I couldn't put down. I read it in one day! I really love the trope of a woman falling for her best friend's older brother and this one didn't disappoint. And seriously, a bachelor auction?! Sign me up! (But don't tell my husband ;) haha) It's so fun how Nick wants to protect Cassidy because growing up she was like another annoying little sister. But once they spend the weekend together, things quickly change between them. Both Nick and Cassidy were a little broken when they saw each other after many years apart and together, they learn to heal. I love that Nick brought out Cassidy's adventurous side and Cassidy teaches him how to let go of his past, just enough to look forward to the future. 

This book absolutely had me hooked from the very first page, just like Bielman's work always does! She definitely knows what she's doing and I cannot wait to read everything else she has!  I love when a book can keep me hooked enough to read it in one day. I struggled to put this down, even when my husband was calling me for dinner! If anyone is looking for a quick, sexy read, don't pass this one up! Seriously, it's so good!

[Mini Review] Welcome Home, Cowboy by Annie Rains

Welcome Home, Cowboy by Annie Rains
Series: Hero's Welcome, #2
Publisher: Loveswept
Publishing date: April 26, 2016
Format: ebook, ARC
261 Pages
Links: Goodreads | Amazon | B&N

Synopsis 

With its thriving military base, Seaside, North Carolina, is teeming with heroes of all stripes. But, as the Hero's Welcome series from Annie Rains continues, it takes a cowboy to rescue the town's newest resident from heartache.

After a bad breakup leaves Julie Chandler completely devastated, she comes to Seaside seeking a fresh start. A talented, compassionate yoga teacher, she has developed a program to help alleviate the effects of PTSD, but getting a bunch of bullheaded Marines into downward facing dog might be impossible. So Julie's shocked when one of her first students dives in headfirst—and almost tempts her to take down her walls with his easy smile and electrifying touch.

Ever since Texas cowboy turned Marine pilot Lawson Phillips lost a crew member in a helicopter accident, he hasn't been able to fly. When a psychologist orders him to attend, of all things, a yoga class, Lawson's outraged—until he finds out Julie is the instructor. She's beautiful, graceful, and completely guarded when it comes to his advances, but he's determined to find out what makes her tick. Because underneath Julie's hard shell is a woman Lawson knows he could fall for—and he's not ready for the ride to end.

My Review

I received a free copy of this ebook from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. 

This was a fun, cute book to read and was exactly what I was looking for when I picked it up. If you follow my blog at all, you know that I LOVE romances. They always pull at my heartstrings and make me feel so many emotions. I love the ups and downs, being able to connect with characters, and connecting with their love story as well. 

While this is the second book in the series, I don't think you need to read the first to love the second. I haven't read the first one in the series and I never felt like I was missing something or couldn't connect with the characters. Because while it's part of a series, it's also a great standalone book. Julie and Lawson were really fun characters to get to know. They've both been through a lot of heartache, but have come out as stronger people. I thought the yoga aspect of this story was really fun and unique. I've tried yoga a few times and I really enjoy it, but I haven't stuck with it enough to get the full effects of it. However, I do agree that it can be a great stress reliever and help people in so many different ways. I also really loved the supporting characters in this book and thought they added a lot to the storyline. Overall, this was a good book and I can't wait to read what else Rains has. I also am tempted to go back and read the first in this series that I missed. 

[Review] Speak by Laurie Halse Anderson

Speak by Laurie Halse Anderson 
Publisher: Speak
Publishing Date: 1999
198 Pages
Format: paperback
Links: Goodreads | Amazon | B&N
Goodreads rating: 2 stars

Synopsis

Melinda Sordino busted an end-of-summer party by calling the cops. Now her old friends won't talk to her, and people she doesn't even know hate her from a distance. The safest place to be is alone, inside her own head. But even that's not safe. Because there's something she's trying not to think about, something about the night of the party that, if she let it in, would blow her carefully constructed disguise to smithereens. And then she would have to speak the truth. This extraordinary first novel has captured the imaginations of teenagers and adults across the country, written by a lovely author who promotes white-guilt in her free time.

My Review

I'm struggling with this one. On the one hand, I liked the book. But on the other hand, I didn't love it, and I wouldn't read it again. I think I might have had too high of hopes for this one. I had heard good things about this and I was really excited to read it. But from the beginning when I picked it up, I couldn't connect with the characters that much. Don't get me wrong, liked Melinda, but didn't connect with her than much. I also didn't find this book funny like some other reviewers say. To me, it was a very serious book with a lot of difficult issues to tackle. I think the author did a good job with the issues, but it wasn't amazing to me like I was hoping it would be. 

[Review] Where She Went by Gayle Forman

Where She Went by Gayle Forman
Series: If I Stay, #2
Publisher: Speak
Publishing Date: April 17, 2012
Format: paperback
264 Pages
Links: Goodreads | Amazon | B&N
Goodreads rating: 4.5 stars

Synopsis 

It's been three years since the devastating accident . . . three years since Mia walked out of Adam's life forever.

Now living on opposite coasts, Mia is Juilliard's rising star and Adam is LA tabloid fodder, thanks to his new rock star status and celebrity girlfriend. When Adam gets stuck in New York by himself, chance brings the couple together again, for one last night. As they explore the city that has become Mia's home, Adam and Mia revisit the past and open their hearts to the future - and each other.

Told from Adam's point of view in the spare, lyrical prose that defined If I Stay, Where She Went explores the devastation of grief, the promise of new hope, and the flame of rekindled romance.

My Review

I really, really liked this book! I read If I Stay a while ago and really wanted to read this one right away, but it took my a while to find a copy (I generally only buy used ones when they're on sale otherwise I'd be broke!) I actually didn't know it was from Adam's point of view until I started reading it. I hadn't read the synopsis because I just knew it was a sequel to the first and wanted to read it. 

I have to say, I really loved reading this from Adam's perspective. I thought it was a really unique way to continue the story and it was great to find out what he was thinking. Plus I connected with him right away and loved his character. My heart just broke for him throughout this book; really, it broke for both him and Mia. So many feels in this one! We watch as Adam struggles with his life as a "rock star" and how it's not as perfect as it may seem to outsiders. Meanwhile, Mia is being treated with kid gloves after losing her parents and little brother in an accident. But Mia definitely seems to be coping better than Adam is. Sometimes I'm not sure how his bandmates put up with him for so long! But one night brings Adam and Mia together again after 3 years apart and they both figure out what they really want for their futures. 

Seriously, this book has so many feels! I started it yesterday and finished today. I couldn't read it fast enough and I was hard pressed to put it down last night before bed. If you haven't read this series, I highly suggest you do so! I really can't wait to read what else Forman has written. I'm a little slow to her scene, but I plan to read them all soon! 

[Mini Review] The Natural History of Us by Rachel Harris

The Natural History of Us by Rachel Harris
Series: The Fine of Art of Pretending, #2
Publisher: Spencer Hill Contemporary
Publishing Date: April 5, 2016
Format: ebook, ARC
255 Pages
Links: Goodreads | Amazon | B&N

Synopsis 

One class assignment. One second chance at love. The school player is all in. Now he needs to win back the sweet commitment girl who's forever owned his heart. 

Justin Carter has a secret. He's not the total player Fairfield Academy believes him to be. Not really. In fact, he used to be a one-woman guy...and his feelings for her never went away. Too bad he broke her heart three years ago and made sure to ruin any chance she'd ever forgive him. 

Peyton Williams is a liar. She pretends to be whole, counting down the days until graduation and helping her parents at the family ranch. But the truth is, she's done everything she can to get over Justin, and salvation is just around the corner. With graduation one short month away, she'll soon break free from the painful memories and start her life fresh. Of course, she has to get through working with him on one last assignment first. 

For Justin, nothing ever felt as right as being with Peyton, and now that fate's given him a shot at redemption, he's determined to make the most of it. And for Peyton...well, Justin Carter has always been her kryptonite.

My Mini Review

I received a free copy of this ebook from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. 

I really liked this book. I thought it was a cute story and a second chance at love for these two. Justin and Peyton have a bit of a history that no one really knows anything about. But in their senior year of high school, they're paired together for a project. No better way to get these two talking again! I really loved when this happened and it forced both of them to figure out what they wanted and how to resolve their pasts. It was fun to watch these two get to know each other again. I have to say, this won't be the last Rachel Harris book I read! I think she's a great storyteller and I can't wait to find out what else she has. I also really want to go back and read the first book in this series. 

[Review] Lola and the Boy Next Door by Stephanie Perkins

Lola and the Boy Next Door by Stephanie Perkins
Series: Anna and the French Kiss, #2
Publisher: Dutton
Publishing Date: Sept. 29, 2011
Format: hardcover
384 Pages
Links: Goodreads | Amazon | B&N

Synopsis 

Lola Nolan is a budding costume designer, and for her, the more outrageous, sparkly, and fun the outfit, the better. And everything is pretty perfect in her life (right down to her hot rocker boyfriend) until the Bell twins, Calliope and Cricket, return to the neighborhood. When Cricket, a gifted inventor, steps out from his twin sister's shadow and back into Lola's life, she must finally reconcile a lifetime of feelings for the boy next door.

My Review

I read Anna and the French Kiss a while ago and absolutely loved the story. From that point on, I knew I wanted to read the rest of the books in the series. It's taken me a long time to get here, but I finally read the second one, Lola and the Boy Next Door! I actually didn't know anything about this book when I picked it up; I just knew it was the second in the series. And I have to say, I will definitely be reading the third!

This was a really cute book. I loved Lola because she was so different from a lot of other YA characters. She has her own style and doesn't really let anyone change that. And Cricket was a neat character too. I liked that he changed his ways and made things up to Lola. And I also loved that Lola's parents are gay men; it really made the story fun and interesting. Obviously they aren't any different from straight parents, but I have to say that I don't think I've ever read a book with gay parents before. I really just love seeing diversity in books, so I was happy to read this. 

Overall, really fun book. I loved Lola's personality and Cricket was a great supporting character. I even liked Calliope because I could relate to her a bit. I do think this is a great YA series and I'm on the bandwagon with all the other fans! (: