[Review] A Creed in Stone Creek by Linda Lael Miller

A Creed In Stone Creek by Linda Lael Miller

Series: Montana Creeds, #5

Synopsis 

When single attorney Steven Creed becomes guardian of an orphaned five-year-old boy, he trades his big-city law firm for a ranch near his McKettrick kin in the close-knit community of Stone Creek, Arizona. Taking care of little Matt and fixing up his run-down ranch house with its old barn loosens something tightly wound inside him. But when Steven takes on the pro-bono defense of a local teen, he meets his match in the opposing counsel – beautiful, by-the-book county prosecutor Melissa O-Ballivan. It’ll take one grieving little boy, a sweet adopted dog and a woman who never expected to win any man’s heart to make this Creed in Stone Creek know he’s truly found home. 

My Review

First, I want to say that I’ve read quite a few books by Miller and I’m a fan of her work! However, I’m a bit undecided how I feel about this book. It took me a while to get through this one – though I think it had more to do with just having a baby than the book itself – but I also found myself not running to pick it up any time I had a free minute. I did enjoy the book while reading it and thought it was a cute story. I’m always a sucker for single dads – I’m not sure what it is about them, but I find them so endearing! Plus this story had the added benefit of legal issues, and since I went to law school and have my law license, it was a nice element! 

That being said, this book didn’t grab me like other stories have previously. The characters were very likable, but I wasn’t in love with them, except Matt (he’s adorable!). I think this book focused too much on the legal issues going on with some of the minor characters in the community, and not enough on Melissa and Steven’s relationship. They didn’t seem to have enough time to get to know each other and all the feels weren't really there for me. 

Even though this wasn’t my favorite book, I still enjoy Miller’s work and will continue to read it.

*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)

a Rafflecopter giveaway

[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] 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] 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] 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! (: 

[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! 

[Mini Review] Country Heaven by Ava Miles

Country Heaven by Ava Miles
Series: Dare River #1
Publisher: Ava Miles, Inc.
Publishing Date: February 2015
319 Pages
Format: ebook
Links: Goodreads | Amazon | B&N

Synopsis 

A down-on-her luck cook uses food’s magical properties to tame a beastly country singer after he hires her under false pretenses to restore his image.

When famous—and infamous—country singer Rye Crenshaw saunters into the diner where she cooks, Tory Simmons is certain she’s got him pegged. He’s a bad boy who indulges himself in all things, women included. But while she couldn’t care less about country music or arrogant men, Rye makes her an offer she can’t refuse when he asks her to be his private chef on his multi-city concert tour. The job is the answer to all her prayers: it will clear out her debt and finance the fresh start she desperately needs.

Rye is certain his sassy new cook is the last woman who’d ever tempt him, but spending time with the wholesome girl next door will do wonders for his damaged public image, whether she likes being forced into the spotlight or not. Her food also happens to be the best he’s ever eaten, both comforting and seductive. But spending time with Tory on the road shows him a new side to her—one that’s as impossible to resist as her food. And when an emergency in his family whisks him home, he does the one thing he’s never risked: he lets a woman into his heart…

Soon the emotions Rye faked for the tabloids become all too real, but will the country heaven he’s found in Tory’s arms survive in the real world?

My Mini Review

This was one of those free books that I grabbed from Amazon because it sounded really cute and fun. And that definitely held true. I loved reading about Rye and Tory and I loved their meet-cute. Even though Rye's manager(s) wanted Tory along for an image reason, Rye really wanted to spend time with her and thoroughly enjoyed her cooking. It was interesting to see how they made each other better in everyday life and when Rye's family needs him, Tory is right there to help. I'm really interested in reading the other books in this series; I think there's a lot of potential here for a great series!

[Review] The One and Only by Emily Giffin

The One and Only by Emily Giffin
Publisher: Ballantine Books
Publishing Date: May 20, 2014
Format: paperback
432 Pages
Links: Goodreads | Amazon | B&N
Goodreads rating: 5 stars

Synopsis 

In her eagerly awaited new novel, beloved New York Timesbestselling author Emily Giffin returns with an extraordinary story of love and loyalty—and an unconventional heroine struggling to reconcile both.

Thirty-three-year-old Shea Rigsby has spent her entire life in Walker, Texas—a small college town that lives and dies by football, a passion she unabashedly shares. Raised alongside her best friend, Lucy, the daughter of Walker’s legendary head coach, Clive Carr, Shea was too devoted to her hometown team to leave. Instead she stayed in Walker for college, even taking a job in the university athletic department after graduation, where she has remained for more than a decade.

But when an unexpected tragedy strikes the tight-knit Walker community, Shea’s comfortable world is upended, and she begins to wonder if the life she’s chosen is really enough for her. As she finally gives up her safety net to set out on an unexpected path, Shea discovers unsettling truths about the people and things she has always trusted most—and is forced to confront her deepest desires, fears, and secrets.

Thoughtful, funny, and brilliantly observed, The One & Only is a luminous novel about finding your passion, following your heart, and, most of all, believing in something bigger than yourself . . . the one and only thing that truly makes life worth living. 

My Review

Before you read any further, this review has SPOILERS! Here's the thing. I try really hard to keep my reviews spoiler-free. But this book - I just can't. I really want to lay my feelings out there, so I need to release some spoilers. 

I was really nervous to read this book after I read some of the reviews on Goodreads. I usually don't let those get to me, but they were so mixed that I didn't know what to think! I really love Emily Giffin's work and I was worried that I would be let down. Even when I started reading it, I still wasn't sure and I almost talked myself into not liking it at first. BUT. Then I just pushed all those other reviews out of my head and just focused on the story. And that's when I got completely wrapped up in the story and I realized how much I really loved it. 

However, the romance factor was a little worrisome for me. I knew pretty fast that Shea was falling for Coach Carr. The way she talked about him, knew him so well, was always thinking about him. It was just there. And honestly, in the beginning, I didn't like it. I wanted her relationship to work out with Ryan James. But the more I read, the more I realized she was good with Coach and truly herself. I know a lot of people didn't like her relationship with Coach, and I was really skeptical. I mean, he's her father's age and her best friend's father! It's weird! But I like that this was real; we don't choose who we fall in love with, what age they are, what gender, what race, religion, etc. It was a forbidden love, and clearly some people didn't take it too well, at first. 

I'll be honest, if this happened with people I knew, someone I was close with, I would be weirded out. But I like to hope that I would be able to get used to it and really set the age factor aside. Much easier to do in fiction than real life, but I hope I could. I certainly don't think this will be happening in my life anytime soon, but you never know! 

Other than the romance factor, I really liked the story in general. I love football, so it was easy to enjoy it. Plus I really connected and empathized with Shea. I liked everything about her; especially that she stuck true to what she believed. Her life certainly hasn't been easy, and she didn't take the path well traveled. I just really liked this book, even if a lot of other people didn't. It worked for me. 

[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] After We Fall by Marquita Valentine

After We Fall by Marquita Valentine
Series: Take the Fall, #3
Publisher: Loveswept
Publishing Date: April 26, 2016
Format: ARC, ebook
176 Pages
Links: Goodreads | Amazon | B&N

Synopsis 

A tough cop with an even tougher past, Hunter Sloan has never let anyone stop him from getting what he wants—and he wants Evangeline Ambrose bad. With her gentle curves and raw vulnerability, Hunter’s beautiful, mysterious new neighbor awakens his protective side. Determined to do right by a woman who’s gone through hell and back, Hunter could be the one to take away the pain—so long as his own secrets don’t sink their relationship before it begins.

Having escaped an abusive marriage, Evangeline simply wants to start over in the small, quiet town of Forrestville. She’s also avoiding all contact with the opposite sex, because she just can’t trust her instincts when it comes to men—not even with the sinfully sexy cop next door. So why can’t she stop thinking about him? Hunter has darkness in his soul, and yet no one ever made her feel so safe. For all her best laid plans, Evangeline didn’t count on choices this hard—or temptation this hot.

My Review

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

I had never heard of this author, but since I was approved for it on Netgalley, I wanted to give it a try. I figured it was a great day to start this yesterday since it was Valentine's Day and that's the authors last name! Plus, can you really go wrong with reading a romance novel, curled up with your kitty, with your husband next to you on Valentine's day? I think not. 

Regardless of the day I read this, I finished it in one day! It was a really quick, short read and I really loved the characters. Of course, there's something about a man in uniform and I have a soft spot for cops. My brother is a copy in Arizona and I used to work at a police department, and let me tell ya, some of those copes were very easy on the eyes! So I knew right when I read this synopsis that I wanted to get a copy of this book. 

Hunter and Evangeline met in really terrible circumstances, but since then, he hasn't been able to forget about her. Months later she moves in across the hall from him as his new neighbor and things get interesting. It was so fun to watch these two together. They both have a a very difficult past, but learn to overcome it together. It wasn't entirely unpredictable, but I still had an idea of what was going to happen. However, it didn't take away for the cuteness of the story. I definitely will be checking out what else Valentine's written!

[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 

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