*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

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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] 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. 

[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] Missing Pieces by Heather Gudenkauf

Missing Pieces by Heather Gudenkauf
Publisher: Mira
Publishing Date: Feb. 2, 2016
Format: hardcover, ARC
284 Pages
Links: Goodreads | Amazon | B&N
Goodreads rating: 4.5 stars

Synopsis 

Sarah Quinlan's husband, Jack, has been haunted for decades by the untimely death of his mother when he was just a teenager, her body found in the cellar of their family farm, the circumstances a mystery. The case rocked the small farm town of Penny Gate, Iowa, where Jack was raised, and for years Jack avoided returning home. But when his beloved aunt Julia is in an accident, hospitalized in a coma, Jack and Sarah are forced to confront the past that they have long evaded. 

Upon arriving in Penny Gate, Sarah and Jack are welcomed by the family Jack left behind all those years ago—barely a trace of the wounds that had once devastated them all. But as facts about Julia's accident begin to surface, Sarah realizes that nothing about the Quinlans is what it seems. Caught in a flurry of unanswered questions, Sarah dives deep into the puzzling rabbit hole of Jack's past. But the farther in she climbs, the harder it is for her to get out. And soon she is faced with a deadly truth she may not be prepared for. 

My Review 

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

I've read just about all of Gudenkauf's work (just missing 1 I think!) and I'm a big fan. I think The Weight of Silence might be my favorite of hers, but I can't really decide! This book didn't disappoint, either. 

From the minute I began reading this book, I was hooked. From the very beginning, you're thrown into the story. Sarah thinks she knows her husband really well, but once they're in Penny Gate for a few hours, she realizes there are things she really doesn't know everything about her husband. Jack's past slowly comes out throughout the story and you not only have to figure out what happened to his aunt Julia, but what happened to his parents as well. 

Throughout the whole book, I thought I knew what happened. Little things throughout the story made me think I was right. There were a few times I changed my mind and looked somewhere else (should have stayed on that path!) but then I went back to another theory. Turns out, I was wrong. But that's really one of my favorite things about mysteries. I love not being able to figure it out what happened. I mean, sometimes it's fun, but I like being surprised and I really was in this book. 

The characters were all very interesting. Each had their own quirks, each had traits that annoyed me, and then most of them had traits that I liked. Gudenkauf did a great job of balancing these characteristics for each person. Sarah was a great main character and I think the doubts she had throughout the story were very realistic, something This really was a great book. I loved everything about it and was really interested throughout the whole story. 

[Review] Off the Hook by Laura Drewry

Off the Hook by Laura Drewry
Series: Fishing for Trouble, #1
Publisher: Loveswept
Publishing Date: April 12, 2016
Format: ebook
257 Pages
Links: Goodreads | Amazon | B&N

Synopsis 

Welcome to The Buoys, a West Coast haven where love comes in with the tide. Perfect for readers of Jill Shalvis and Susan Mallery, the Fishing for Trouble series features three unforgettable brothers—each of whom is a great catch.

Major league pitcher Liam O'Donnell knows his best days are probably behind him, but that doesn't mean he's ready to retire and become a fishing guide. Still, after all the time he's spent chasing his dreams, he owes it to his brothers to pull his weight around the lodge. The Buoys is their father's legacy, and they can't let some developer take it from them. The one snag Liam isn't counting on is a blast from the past: his ex-wife.

The moment Kate Hadley steps out of the seaplane, she knows this assignment is going to be trickier than she thought. She has to persuade the owners to sell—and one of them is Liam O'Donnell. Ten years ago, she made the biggest mistake of her life when she married Liam during a fling in Vegas. Now he's her only lifeline in the middle of nowhere. Kate's trying to keep things cool, but Liam just reminds her of the scorching few nights they spent together—and tempts her to make new memories that are just as steamy as the old. 

My Review

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

I really loved this book. It was so fun, cute, and unique. Plus there's something about second chances that I really love. Knowing that Liam and Kate were married once before and now have a second chance at love, ugh, it just pulls at my heart strings. I really loved that Kate had no idea Liam's family owned this fishing resort, and then when she finds out, she doesn't run the other way. Instead, she sticks though it, though for completely selfish reasons. Regardless, the more she gets to know Liam outside of their Vegas fantasy week and the rest of his family, she puts aside what she wants and really fights for their interests. 

I am really interested in finding out what happens to the other characters in this book, too! They were really great supporting characters and so many fun personalities. I think Drewry has a really great series here and I can't wait for what's next! 

[Review] Fooling Around by Noelle Adams

Fooling Around by Noelle Adams
Publisher: Loveswept
Expected publication: May 2016
Format: ARC, ebook
Links: Goodreads | Amazon | B&N

Synopsis 

Eric Vincent isn’t in the habit of asking for help. As the founder of a lucrative sports videogame franchise, he’s accustomed to getting his way and enjoying the fruits of his hard-earned success. Then all his illusions of dominance are shattered by a skiing accident that leaves him hobbled, facing a string of surgeries and months of immobility. The only way he’s going to survive is with someone by his side to anticipate his every desire. Someone who will devote every waking second to his comfort. Someone like Julie Nelson . . .

Julie’s life revolves around other people: her students, her parents, her sister. But even she has her limits. Julie has zero interest in playing personal assistant to Eric Vincent, a man who’s as arrogant as he is charismatic . . . until he ups the salary to one million dollars for three months’ work. Soon Julie’s struggling to bite her tongue—and resist the chemistry that draws her to Eric. But after one scorching kiss, Julie decides it’s finally her turn to be selfish. And this time, she’s going to get what she wants.

My Review

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

Like my previous review for After We Fall, I picked this one up over the weekend because I wanted a good romance read for Valentine's Day! And that's exactly what I got. This was a pretty quick read and it kept me hooked the whole time. Julie has taken care of her sick parents for years and hasn't done much for herself because of that. She even left school just before she finished her PhD. Meanwhile, Eric has been building his career for as long as he remembers. Unfortunately, a skiing accident has put him out of commission for a while, and he's not happy about it. With a very large salary, he convinces Julie to come work for him for 3 months.

This story was pretty cute and unique. Not entirely realistic because not many people will pay someone else $1 million for 3 months....but still, a cute story. Eric certainly didn't make things easy for Julie, but she doesn't back down and that's what I like about her. I also really liked that she wasn't all about the money when it really came down to it. I can't say too much without giving everything away, but it was a fun story. I enjoyed reading it and I'm interested in seeing what else Adams has to offer. 

[Review] Firsts by Laurie Elizabeth Flynn

Firsts by Laurie Elizabeth Flynn
Publisher: St. Martin's Griffin
Publishing Date: Jan. 5, 2016
320 pages
Format: hardcover, ARC
Links: Goodreads | Amazon | B&N

Synopsis 

Seventeen-year-old Mercedes Ayres has an open-door policy when it comes to her bedroom, but only if the guy fulfills a specific criteria: he has to be a virgin. Mercedes lets the boys get their awkward, fumbling first times over with, and all she asks in return is that they give their girlfriends the perfect first time- the kind Mercedes never had herself.

Keeping what goes on in her bedroom a secret has been easy- so far. Her absentee mother isn’t home nearly enough to know about Mercedes’ extracurricular activities, and her uber-religious best friend, Angela, won’t even say the word “sex” until she gets married. But Mercedes doesn’t bank on Angela’s boyfriend finding out about her services and wanting a turn- or on Zach, who likes her for who she is instead of what she can do in bed.

When Mercedes’ perfect system falls apart, she has to find a way to salvage her reputation and figure out where her heart really belongs in the process. Funny, smart, and true-to-life, FIRSTS is a one-of-a-kind young adult novel about growing up.

My Review

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

I was really excited to get a copy of this book because it sounded really interested and unique. I loved Mercedes as a main character.  I thought she was so sympathetic, even if I didn't agree with her choices of letting guys into her bedroom. Even so, she was interesting to get to know. The more I read, the more I understood why she did what she did. I really hated her mom, Kim; she acted like she couldn't care less about Mercedes and even congratulated her when she had boys over. It made me sick. 

I felt so many emotions while reading this book. I was laughing sometimes, cringing at other times, and even tearing up. Zach is such a good guy, too! He sticks by Mercedes side throughout thick and thin. Obviously he wants more than to be just friends, but even though Mercedes doesn't, he doesn't give up. When all hell break loose, Zach, and their new friend Faye, are there to back her up and help her through it. 

Seriously, this was a good book. I really enjoyed it and I can't wait to see what else Flynn has in store for us. This book felt real and I had such a hard time putting it down! 

[Review] Call Me, Maybe by Ellie Cahill

Call Me, Maybe by Ellie Cahill
Publisher: Loveswept
Publishing Date: Feb. 9, 2016
217 Pages
Format: ebook, ARC
Links: Goodreads | Amazon | B&N
Goodreads rating: 5 stars

Synopsis 

Clementine Daly knows she’s the black sheep. Her wealthy, powerful family has watched her very closely since she almostgot caught in an embarrassing scandal a few years ago. So when Clementine’s sent on a mission to live up to the Daly name, politely declining isn’t even an option. Of course, the last thing Clementine does before departure is grab a stranger’s phone by mistake—leaving the hunky journalist with her phone. Soon his sexy voice is on the line, but he doesn’t know her real name, or her famous pedigree—which is just the way Clementine likes it.

Despite all the hassles, Justin Mueller is intrigued to realize that the beautiful brown-eyed girl he met at the airport is suddenly at his fingertips. They agree to exchange phones when they’re both back in town, but after a week of flirty texts and wonderfully intimate conversations, Justin doesn’t want to let her go that easy. The only problem? It turns out that Clemetine has been lying to him about, well, everything. Except for the one thing two people can’t fake, the only thing that matters: The heat between them is for real.

My Review

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

O.M.G. I loved this book! I cruised through it in just a few hours and didn't want to put it down - but it was after midnight last night and I couldn't stay awake any longer! Seriously, this was such a fun, romantic book. I wasn't sure if the meeting over the phone and falling in love that way would work, but it really did. Clementine and Justin are really cute together. They meet after they accidentally switch phones before flying to other states and soon they're talking each day. You can feel the emotion and the new romance budding while reading this book. It reminds me a little of when my husband and I first met. New romances are so much fun and I remember getting really giddy each time he would text or call me (we were doing a long distance relationship so I didn't get to see him much). To be honest, I still get giddy when he texts me (: I just loved everything about this story. It was cute, charming, and incredibly romantic. Plus, there were some steamy sex scenes! Even after the couple comes to a bump in the road, the story was still really cute and I couldn't wait for them to work it out. 

Both characters are easy to relate to. Clementine, though incredibly wealthy, has no idea what she wants to do with her life. She's gone to college, has hundreds of opportunities because of her well-known family, but still has no idea what she wants. I actually really love this about her - I have a few degrees, including my law degree, and I still feel like I don't know what I want with my life. Meanwhile, Justin knows exactly what he wants in life - to be a journalist, but he doesn't have the family business to help him. He works hard for what he wants and goes after it. Put both of them together and these two people are perfect for each other; they complement each other very well. 

Highly, highly recommend this book! I can't wait to read what else Cahill has written!

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

About the Author

Ellie Cahill is a freelance writer and also writes books for young adults under the name Liz Czukas. She lives outside Milwaukee, Wisconsin, with her husband, son, and the world’s loudest cat.

Author Links: Website | Facebook | Twitter | GoodReads

Giveaway 

($25.00 Amazon eGift Card)

a Rafflecopter giveaway

[Review] Don't You Cry by Mary Kubica

Don't You Cry by Mary Kubica
Publisher: MIRA
Publishing Date: June 1, 2016
384 Pages
Format: ebook, ARC
Links: Goodreads | Amazon | B&N
Goodreads rating: 4 stars

Synopsis 

In downtown Chicago, a young woman named Esther Vaughan disappears from her apartment without a trace. A haunting letter addressed to My Dearest is found among her possessions, leaving her friend and roommate Quinn Collins to wonder where Esther is and whether or not she's the person Quinn thought she knew. 

Meanwhile, in a small Michigan harbor town an hour outside Chicago, a mysterious woman appears in the quiet coffee shop where eighteen-year-old Alex Gallo works as a dishwasher. He is immediately drawn to her charm and beauty, but what starts as an innocent crush quickly spirals into something far more dark and sinister than he ever expected. 

As Quinn searches for answers about Esther, and Alex is drawn further under the stranger's spell, master of suspense Mary Kubica takes readers on a taut and twisted thrill ride that builds to a stunning conclusion and shows that no matter how fast and far we run, the past always catches up with us in the end.

My Review

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

This is the first book I have read by Mary Kubica and it definitely won't be the last. I have The Good Girl on my shelf right now, which is why I requested this one through Netgalley. I couldn't pass up the opportunity to read this! 

I really enjoyed reading this book and I can't wait to read what else Kubica has to offer. This book takes place in Chicago and a small town in Michigan. Quinn is trying to figure out what happened to her roommate Esther, while Alex is trying to figure out a little about the mysterious girl who appeared in town. There are so many different things going on in this book, but I didn't find it confusing. The characters are interesting but I found myself annoyed a few times. Mostly because Quinn was so easy to jump to conclusions and Alex was so easy to believe everything this mysterious girl told him. But regardless of that, this was a very intriguing story. I couldn't figure out what was going on until the last few chapters. 

It wasn't a very fast-paced story, but it was steady and kept me interested the entire time. 

[DNF Review] Ugly by Margaret McHeyzer

Ugly by Margaret McHeyzer

Publisher: Smashwords

Publishing date: Oct. 26, 2015

Format: ARC, ebook

Synopsis 

If I were dead, I wouldn't be able to see.
If I were dead, I wouldn't be able to feel.
If I were dead, he'd never raise his hand to me again.
If I were dead, his words wouldn't cut as deep as they do.
If I were dead, I'd be beautiful and I wouldn't be so...ugly.
I'm not dead...but I wish I was.

*This is a dark YA/NA stand-alone, full-length novel. Contains violence.

My Review

*Might contain some spoilers*

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

I couldn't finish this book. I made it about 50% of the way thcfrough, but had to stop. It wasn't that the book was bad; but I couldn't keep reading. Maybe that doesn't make sense, but I'm going to try to explain. This book is about domestic violence, first from Lily's father, and then from her husband. I don't mind reading emotional books or books about difficult topics, and honestly, I was looking for an emotion, deep book when I started reading this. The problem that I had with reading this is that it was starting to affect my mood. I found myself really down and easily annoyed. It's weird, but sometimes it happens when I read certain books; not just sad books, but for example, I read Still Alice by Lisa Genova and I thought I was constantly losing stuff and forgetting things while reading it. But anyways, I just couldn't keep feeling like that. I've learned a lot about domestic violence during my criminal justice school and law school; I even took classes specifically about it. So I know it's not as simple as walking away, moving in with a friend, etc. I just didn't want to keep reading about it when it was seriously affecting my mood. So I stopped. I wish I could have finished, but this wasn't for me. 

[Review] Power Play by Sophia Henry

Power Play by Sophia Henry
Series: Pilots Hockey, #2
Publisher: Loveswept
Publishing Date: Feb. 16, 2016
232 Pages
Format: ebook, ARC
Links: Goodreads | Amazon | B&N

Synopsis 

In Sophia Henry's blistering follow-up to Delayed Penalty, hailed as “sexy, fun, and full of angst” by L. P. Dover, a good girl and a hockey hunk face off against expectations—and this match is guaranteed to see plenty of action.

Beneath her innocent facade, Gabriella Bertucci has her reasons to be standoffish with guys. Especially guys like Landon Taylor, a star defenseman on the minor-league Detroit Pilots and the object of a serious crush since he first walked into her family's market. But when Landon comes through for her in a moment of crisis, Gaby starts to wonder if there might be more to Landon than hard muscles and fast skates.

Landon isn't afraid of telling Gaby that he's got it for her bad. The problem is, she seems unwilling to believe it. And though Landon enjoys his reputation as a cool-headed athlete, he hates losing—both on the rink and off. It's his competitiveness that makes him so damn good at what he does . . . but it also makes him just a little bit complicated.

One minute Gaby's tempted to give in; the next, she's getting cold feet. How can she trust a guy who's destined for bigger and better things to stick around? Then again, when Landon pulls her close with those powerful arms, the only thing that matters is right now.

My Review

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

I enjoyed the first book in this series, Delayed Penalty, so I was excited to get into this book. I really love hockey and really, really love romances, so this is a great combination! I would say this book definitely caught my interest right away and I really like Gaby and Landon. They've both been crushing on each other for years, but neither knows it until Landon makes the first move. It's fun to watch their relationship grow. I don't like Gaby's dad; he's a chauvinist and doesn't treat women the same. I get that he changes a little in the end, but I'm not a big fan. And Landon was a bit selfish, but he's still a fun character to get to know. This was another book that I cruised through and I'm interested in reading others in the series!

[Review] Best of Me by Elisabeth Barrett

The Best of Me by Elisabeth Barrett
Series: Return to Briarwood, #2
Publisher: Loveswept
Publishing Date: Jan. 5, 2016
Format: ebook, ARC
Links: Goodreads | Amazon | B&N

Synopsis 

Jane Pringle never meant to fall for her boss. After landing a job as a pastry chef at the exclusive Briarwood Golf and Yacht Club in Eastbridge, Connecticut, she just wants to keep her son in a good school district and find some peace and quiet, far away from her manipulative ex-husband. But when Briarwood’s charismatic co-owner takes an interest in her, Jane’s best-laid plans go awry . . . in the sweetest way possible.

Rich and handsome, the grandson of one of the most powerful men in New York City, Preston North hasn’t lived quite the charmed life everyone believes. His family taught him everything he needs to know about betrayal—and Press wants no more of it. What he wants is Jane. The gorgeous single mom is selfless and kind, plus she’s got a backbone. To win her trust, Press just needs to shake off his playboy reputation.

They’ve each been burned in the past. But now Press and Jane will have to choose between letting their fears get the best of them . . . or breaking free and following their hearts.

My Review

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

I read the first book in this series over my Christmas break from work and I fell in love with these characters, the community, and Barrett's writing style. I couldn't wait to read Jane and Preston's story in this book, so I dove right in! Let me tell you, it didn't disappoint! 

In Once and Again (review here) we met Jane and Preston, though briefly. We learned of struggles that Jane was going through, but not too much about Preston. In this book, we definitely find out more about Jane's struggles with her ex-husband and the lengths he will go to to make Jane's life difficult. Meanwhile, Preston appears completely in control of his life on the outside, but on the inside, he struggles with his father's death and his choices after. Both Jane and Preston are a little broken, but together, they complement each other perfectly. 

This book has very developed characters and I loved reading their story. Both Jane and Preston are easy to like and sympathize with, and they're strong in their own ways. Throughout the story, we see their struggles, but they help each other and grow to become and even stronger couple. You don't necessarily need to read the first book in this series before reading this one. The characters overlap, but the stories are stand-alones. 

Others in the Series

Once and Again by Elisabeth Barrett

[Review] Mean Streak by Sandra Brown

Mean Streak by Sandra Brown
Publisher: Grand Central
Publishing Date: 2014
Format: paperback and ebook
409 Pages
Links: Goodreads | Amazon | B&N
Goodreads rating: 5 Stars

Synopsis 

Dr. Emory Charbonneau, a pediatrician and marathon runner, disappears on a mountain road in North Carolina. By the time her husband Jeff, miffed over a recent argument, reports her missing, the trail has grown cold. Literally. Fog and ice encapsulate the mountainous wilderness and paralyze the search for her.

While police suspect Jeff of "instant divorce," Emory, suffering from an unexplained head injury, regains consciousness and finds herself the captive of a man whose violent past is so dark that he won't even tell her his name. She's determined to escape him, and willing to take any risks necessary to survive. 

Unexpectedly, however, the two have a dangerous encounter with people who adhere to a code of justice all their own. At the center of the dispute is a desperate young woman whom Emory can't turn her back on, even if it means breaking the law.

As the FBI closes in on her captor, Emory begins to wonder if the man with no name is, in fact, her rescuer.

My Review

I received a free copy of this ebook in exchange for a honest review. So, I received a free copy of this but completely forgot and bought the book anyways! So I mostly read my paperback copy, but switched to the ebook version when I was at the gym. 

I'm a huge fan of everything Sandra Brown writes. I started out reading all of her romance novels and then I moved to her romantic suspense novels. I absolutely love her work and the romantic suspense novels are fantastic. This book was no exception and might be one of my favorites (maybe tied with Chill Factor). The characters in this book are very interesting and easy to like. Emory is a well-known doctor who goes missing and her husband is the prime suspect. But throughout the whole story, we get Emory's perspective, and she's not missing. There's so much going on throughout this book that it keeps you hooked. It's so fast-paced and I never really saw the end coming. I guessed a few things, but certainly not the biggest! 

I highly, highly recommend this book, or any other books by Brown. I can't wait to start reading Friction, the next on my list!