What a hot mess. A hillbilly stripper, a cowgirl, a damsel on the run, and a college student decide to enter a marriage auction in excAudiobook review
What a hot mess. A hillbilly stripper, a cowgirl, a damsel on the run, and a college student decide to enter a marriage auction in exchange for a minimum of $3 million and 3 years of marriage. Why millionaires would choose to marry total strangers is beyond me. Surely they have no shortage of prospects. Nonetheless, four very hot, very wealthy, and very kind men fall for our motley crew of heroines on sight and purchase them.
This story has 10 different points of view, but it’s relatively easy to keep the characters straight. The audiobook features a few narrators with some pretty atrocious accents; however, there are also narrators who are quite good.
Much like junk food and reality tv, this book is trash, but fun to consume in small doses. I’m ready for my next serving.
Stuck With You is pretty standard fare for a novella. It sits firmly in the didn’t love it, didn’t hate it category for me.
With Corrie and Jacob’s penStuck With You is pretty standard fare for a novella. It sits firmly in the didn’t love it, didn’t hate it category for me.
With Corrie and Jacob’s pending divorce and the possibility of her dating another man, I expected to be more emotionally involved. I enjoyed the genuine warmth between the characters; however, the story lacks tension because the two are still clearly in love with each other and the justification for their split is weak. Corrie also isn’t very firm in her rejection of Jacob. There are several missed opportunities to make the plot more meaningful.
Although the story is predictable, I still rooted for the characters to have their happily ever after. The epilogue could be more satisfying, but overall it was pleasant way to pass an hour or two.
*I received an early copy of this book to voluntarily read.*
Stuck With You is pretty standard fare for a novella. It sits firmly in the didn’t love it, didn’t hate it category for me.
With Corrie and Jacob’s pending divorce and the possibility of her dating another man, I expected to be more emotionally involved. I enjoyed the genuine warmth between the characters; however, the story lacks tension because the two are still clearly in love with each other and the justification for their split is weak. Corrie also isn’t very firm in her rejection of Jacob. There are several missed opportunities to make the plot more meaningful.
Although the story is predictable, I still rooted for the characters to have their happily ever after. The epilogue could be more satisfying, but overall it was pleasant way to pass an hour or two.
*I received an early copy of this book to voluntarily read.*
It’s hard for me to rate Wait for It. Honestly, there’s nothing about this book that’s particularly bad. There’s nothing that makes it stand out eitheIt’s hard for me to rate Wait for It. Honestly, there’s nothing about this book that’s particularly bad. There’s nothing that makes it stand out either. I suspect my current book funk has colored my opinions. For what it’s worth, here goes.
When someone says, “Do you want the good news first or the bad news?” I always choose the bad news. The problem is that I can’t put my finger on what didn’t work for me. What I do know is that throughout the first 40% of the book I must have picked it up and put it down a half dozen times. It just did not sustain my interest.
I couldn’t connect with Blake and his initial coldness. He’s a wealthy man who throws money at problems and carefully conceals his emotions. He is quick to callously dismiss and threaten Tiffany in the beginning without even attempting to understand her situation. Later, his transformation into a concerned caregiver seems abrupt. His kindness is overshadowed by a refusal to pursue genuine, fulfilling relationships. I couldn’t entirely relate to him.
Tiffany is a survivor who is easy to admire. For all intents and purposes she is a poor single mom that protects her three kids at all costs. With virtually no support, she fights to dig them out of a hellish situation in living in a trailer and provide them with of a normal life. She is fiercely independent and leery of accepting help, fearing that help comes with strings. However, her sense of pride seems skewed at times. Tiffany has an intense connection with Blake, but their relationship comes with an odd sort of monetary strings attached that I never fully understood.
The supporting characters add nice interest to the plot. Tiffany’s kids are absolutely adorable and sure to win you over. The antagonist, Tiffany’s estranged husband and Blake’s brother, brings some drama and suspense.
Although I didn’t find Worth the Wait to be absorbing, there is a tenderness that will likely appeal to other readers. If I read this book another day, I probably would have enjoyed it more.
Recommended for fans of: Single mothers Characters overcoming odds Cute kids
**ARC received in exchange for an honest review.**
It’s hard for me to rate Wait for It. Honestly, there’s nothing about this book that’s particularly bad. There’s nothing that makes it stand out either. I suspect my current book funk has colored my opinions. For what it’s worth, here goes.
When someone says, “Do you want the good news first or the bad news?” I always choose the bad news. The problem is that I can’t put my finger on what didn’t work for me. What I do know is that throughout the first 40% of the book I must have picked it up and put it down a half dozen times. It just did not sustain my interest.
I couldn’t connect with Blake and his initial coldness. He’s a wealthy man who throws money at problems and carefully conceals his emotions. He is quick to callously dismiss and threaten Tiffany in the beginning without even attempting to understand her situation. Later, his transformation into a concerned caregiver seems abrupt. His kindness is overshadowed by a refusal to pursue genuine, fulfilling relationships. I couldn’t entirely relate to him.
Tiffany is a survivor who is easy to admire. For all intents and purposes she is a poor single mom that protects her three kids at all costs. With virtually no support, she fights to dig them out of a hellish situation in living in a trailer and provide them with of a normal life. She is fiercely independent and leery of accepting help, fearing that help comes with strings. However, her sense of pride seems skewed at times. Tiffany has an intense connection with Blake, but their relationship comes with an odd sort of monetary strings attached that I never fully understood.
The supporting characters add nice interest to the plot. Tiffany’s kids are absolutely adorable and sure to win you over. The antagonist, Tiffany’s estranged husband and Blake’s brother, brings some drama and suspense.
Although I didn’t find Worth the Wait to be absorbing, there is a tenderness that will likely appeal to other readers. If I read this book another day, I probably would have enjoyed it more.
Recommended for fans of: Single mothers Characters overcoming odds Cute kids
**ARC received in exchange for an honest review.**
I swear. The Rugby series by L.H. Cosway and Penny Reid just keeps getting better and more enjoyable. My heart is doing a little happy dance after reaI swear. The Rugby series by L.H. Cosway and Penny Reid just keeps getting better and more enjoyable. My heart is doing a little happy dance after reading The Cad and the Co-Ed.
I think I found a new book boyfriend in Bryan Leech. Yes, he starts off as a total dickhead—or a cad as the title indicates—but the rugby bad boy more than redeems himself. His lifestyle makes a complete 180º turn, and the differences that entails are funny and sweet. I’m all for a bit of delayed gratification, but I love that the reader doesn’t have to wait until the middle of the book to see his transformation begin.
Eilish Cassidy is a very young but devoted single mom with a forgiving spirit, spine of steel, and determination in spades. Her appeal is impossible to deny. Eilish’s vulnerability, her self-sacrificing love for her child, and even her stubbornness resonated with me. Bryan’s patience and understanding are remarkable, and to say I liked his chemistry with Eilish would be an understatement. It’s their little boy, Patrick, though that completely melted my heart.
Eilish’s cousin, Sean, is every bit as delightful in this book as I remember from his story in The Player and the Pixie. There are many moments when Sean is a real scene stealer, and I loved it.
Depending on my mood, I can either be a cynical reader or a sappy romantic reader. Perhaps I was the latter, but the combination of a regretful good man, a resilient mom, and a precious four-year old left me floating on a cloud of cotton candy, with kittens, and rainbows, and chocolate, and red wine, and everything other thing I love but can’t think of right now surrounding me. That sounds stupid now that I’ve written it down, but you get the picture. I enjoyed the heck out of The Cad and the Co-Ed. I’m hoping Will’s story is next. #prettyplease
Recommended for fans of: Single mom romances Reformed douchenozzles Sports romance Sweet, sweet love
**ARC received in exchange for an honest review.**
I swear. The Rugby series by L.H. Cosway and Penny Reid just keeps getting better and more enjoyable. My heart is doing a little happy dance after reading The Cad and the Co-Ed.
I think I found a new book boyfriend in Bryan Leech. Yes, he starts off as a total dickhead—or a cad as the title indicates—but the rugby bad boy more than redeems himself. His lifestyle makes a complete 180º turn, and the differences that entails are funny and sweet. I’m all for a bit of delayed gratification, but I love that the reader doesn’t have to wait until the middle of the book to see his transformation begin.
Eilish Cassidy is a very young but devoted single mom with a forgiving spirit, spine of steel, and determination in spades. Her appeal is impossible to deny. Eilish’s vulnerability, her self-sacrificing love for her child, and even her stubbornness resonated with me. Bryan’s patience and understanding are remarkable, and to say I liked his chemistry with Eilish would be an understatement. It’s their little boy, Patrick, though that completely melted my heart.
Eilish’s cousin, Sean, is every bit as delightful in this book as I remember from his story in The Player and the Pixie. There are many moments when Sean is a real scene stealer, and I loved it.
Depending on my mood, I can either be a cynical reader or a sappy romantic reader. Perhaps I was the latter, but the combination of a regretful good man, a resilient mom, and a precious four-year old left me floating on a cloud of cotton candy, with kittens, and rainbows, and chocolate, and red wine, and everything other thing I love but can’t think of right now surrounding me. That sounds stupid now that I’ve written it down, but you get the picture. I enjoyed the heck out of The Cad and the Co-Ed. I’m hoping Will’s story is next. #prettyplease
Recommended for fans of: Single mom romances Reformed douchenozzles Sports romance Sweet, sweet love
**ARC received in exchange for an honest review.**
There’s sun on my face, a smile in my heart, and a rush of fresh air kissing my skin. It’s all thanks to Here for the Cake, a feel-good fake4.5 stars!
There’s sun on my face, a smile in my heart, and a rush of fresh air kissing my skin. It’s all thanks to Here for the Cake, a feel-good fake dating romance that’s a pleasure to read.
Klein and Paisley felt an instant connection back in college, but one drunken kiss ruined everything. Years later, Paisley, now the owner of a successful marketing agency, hasn’t forgotten the embarrassment of Klein’s rejection. Klein, a struggling writer, remembers Paisley as the girl of his dreams and yearns for a do-over. Opportunity presents itself when Paisley walks into the bar where Klein works and the two reconnect. Paisley needs a date for her sister and her ex-boyfriend’s week-long destination wedding. Klein needs Paisley’s social media skills to help him land a book deal. They reach a mutually beneficial agreement that causes all the rom-com angels to sing.
The wonderful thing is that from the very beginning, nothing about the couple’s relationship feels fake. Their chemistry is very real, and their mutual admiration is genuine. It helps that they’re only pretending to be dating, not married. Between the fun wedding activities and close proximity, there are plenty of opportunities to build something real—and erase the memory of that awful kiss.
I always have a sense of dread while waiting for the gotcha moment that typically comes with fake dating tropes. You know, the point when everyone finds out the relationship was just a hoax, and the main characters are mortified. I was so grateful that Here for the Cake manages to avoid the awkward drama and the ensuing anticlimactic third act break-up.
I adore the book, but I do wish Klein would have done some work on himself to address his extreme insecurities. I also felt the social media campaign idea was weak. However, the story is entertaining, and the cozy beach town setting left me feeling nostalgic for a place I’d never even been. Jennifer Milliken is a new-to-me author, but I can’t wait to read more of her books.
Recommended for fans of: Fake dating Beach romances Revenge dating Social media
I enjoyed King of Wrath. Two warring gangster families, a little blackmail, an arranged marriage, and tons of enemies turned 3.5 stars
Audiobook review
I enjoyed King of Wrath. Two warring gangster families, a little blackmail, an arranged marriage, and tons of enemies turned lovers chemistry. What’s not to like?
The plot is somewhat formulaic, but I can forgive that because few things please me more than when an alpha male is forced to gravel to get back in their woman’s good graces. Dante screws up big time with Vivian, and I loved all the hoops he has to jump through to win her back.
Now, about the audiobook. I do love me some Jacob Morgan. I could seriously listen to him read tax penalty codes all day and not grow tired of his voice. But—and I truly hate to say it—his narration of this audiobook is weak. His emotional delivery is great, but Dante is supposed to at least have a faint Italian accent. Morgan’s accent is neither convincing or consistent. Towards the end of the book, he gives up even trying and goes full-on American. I liked Emily Woo Zeller. Her voice conveys Vivian’s grace and strength. If it weren’t for the accent distraction, I would have enjoyed the audiobook more.
Recommended for fans of: Arranged marriage Mafia romance Jewelry Alpha males groveling
“No life is ‘such a tragedy’ that joy is not possible.” That note from the author perfectly sums up Bananapants. Humor and love are woven int4.5 stars
“No life is ‘such a tragedy’ that joy is not possible.” That note from the author perfectly sums up Bananapants. Humor and love are woven into the serious subject of mental illness, resulting in a heartwarming romantic comedy that left me smiling from ear to ear.
Ava and Desmond are former childhood best friends who were inseparable until Desmond abruptly and inexplicably left town at age 15 and ended their friendship. Now he’s back on a cloak and dagger mission to take down a bad guy, keep the girl he left behind safe, and win her heart in the process.
As someone intimately familiar with the complexities of mental health in general and bi-polar disorder in particular, I can vouch for the authenticity of Desmond’s symptoms and his behavior. Perhaps he’s an unconventional leading male love interest, but I adored his raw vulnerability, humor, courage, and convictions. I don’t think enough words exist to adequately convey how amazing Desmond is. Ava is perfectly suited for him—wicked smart, loyal, and compassionate. Their love story is one for the ages.
Desmond’s heartbreaking estrangement from his dad as well as the palpable yearning between him and Ava had me feeling emotional. However, my spirits were lifted by Desmond’s meddlesome and hilarious handler, as well as the couple’s supportive family members.
This book resonated with me on so many levels. What a satisfying read.
Recommended for fans of: Undercover agents Mental health Friends to lovers Taxes?
*I received an early copy from the publisher. Opinions are my own.*
In the words of Taylor Swift, “It’s me, hi. I’m the problem, it’s me.” My feelings about I Thought of You are a bit all over the place. I thi3.5 stars
In the words of Taylor Swift, “It’s me, hi. I’m the problem, it’s me.” My feelings about I Thought of You are a bit all over the place. I think my tepid response is partially due to my inability to focus on the different story angles equally. I’m a mood reader, so perhaps I just wasn’t in the mood. I don’t know, but it’s far from being a bad book.
Despite what the blurb implies, I would not call this a romance novel. It’s more of an emotional love story(ies). Ultimately, the book shines brightest when it embraces its contemporary fiction roots and avoids trying to force itself into second chance romance and love triangle molds.
Price, Scottie, and Koen are three appealing, well-developed characters. Scottie is a ray of sunshine, a free spirited underachiever, and also a bit of a hot mess. She’s the complete opposite of Price and Koen. I loved the easy friendship between Scottie and Price, but there is no chemistry there. I kept wondering if I was supposed to be rooting for them as a couple. Scottie and Koen have chemistry, but it was hard for me to believe Koen would fall instantly and deeply in love with her (see “hot mess” and “opposite” comments). I enjoyed the budding bromance between Koen and Price.
From the very beginning of the book there is a sense of impending doom, and it hangs over each page. I couldn’t wait for the full truth to be revealed. It’s a beautifully tragic story. Price’s storyline interested me the most. My favorite parts are chapters told from his perspective.
I Thought of You is a unique and heartbreaking story with many thought-provoking character choices. I recommend this as a book club selection.
Recommended for fans of: Airstreams Tear jerkers Juicing General store
*I received an early copy from the publisher. Opinions are my own.*
Dishonestly Yours is the first book in a brand-new series about two con artist families, written by Krista and Becca Ritchie. Best friends Ph2.5 stars
Dishonestly Yours is the first book in a brand-new series about two con artist families, written by Krista and Becca Ritchie. Best friends Phoebe and Hailey try to leave their life of deceit behind and start over by living honestly in Connecticut. That’s difficult to do when their grifter siblings decide to follow them.
The Ritchie twins authored two of my favorite series: the Addicted/Callaway Sisters series and the Like Us series. Part of what made these series so successful in my mind was the excellent character development. Both series featured a unique and flawed but appealing cast of characters and their intricate relationships with each other. Unfortunately, the same can’t be said of the characters in Dishonestly Yours. They seem undefined—interchangeable personalities, vague relationships, even their ages are ambiguous.
The plot gets messy with an unnecessary fake dating scheme, flashbacks, and a confusing love-hate relationship between Phoebe and Hailey’s older brother Rocky. Phoebe is so chill that nothing phases her—not even violence and betrayal. I just didn’t buy it. I did enjoy the friendship between Phoebe and Hailey, but I kept waiting to learn more about the Graves and Tinrock families. Eventually, I lost interest and struggled to finish.
The book ends on a very predictable cliffhanger of sorts. While this may be a disappointing outing, it's not too late to do greater character exploration in the future. There’s no word yet on the next book, and the jury’s still out on whether or not I’ll continue.
*I received an early copy from the publisher. Opinions are my own.*
One Perfect Couple may not be perfect, but it certainly puts the thrill in thriller. This is one creepy story where everyone’s motives are suspect.
In One Perfect Couple may not be perfect, but it certainly puts the thrill in thriller. This is one creepy story where everyone’s motives are suspect.
In an attempt to boost her boyfriend’s acting career, Lyla agrees to join him on a new couples-only reality show competition set on a gorgeous tropical island. From the very beginning, the reader gets the feeling that something is terribly off about the show and the people involved. Things go from eerie to downright terrifying when the island is hit with a deadly hurricane, and the contestants are left stranded with limited food and water. Emotions run high as they are forced to do whatever it takes to survive until they are rescued. Meanwhile, there’s a murderer in their midst who seems determined to kill them off one at a time.
Lyla is a scientist, and I really appreciated her sharp, analytical mind. She’s no dummy. Every red flag that I noticed, she notices too. She gives voice to all my suspicions and objections. It makes the situation more believable. It was interesting to see the dynamics and different personalities among the couples, as well as the roles each person undertakes in the aftermath of the storm.
I could have done without the flash forwards that are incorporated, and the ending is more complicated than necessary in some ways and not detailed enough in others. Nonetheless, the mounting tension and tenacity of the main character make this a difficult book to put down.
Recommended for fans of: Deserted islands Reality TV Thrillers Mysteries Packaged pastries
*I received an early copy from the publisher. Opinions are my own.*
It took me forever to get into this story, and—if I’m honest—I’m not sure I ever completely got there.
I loved the idea of a psychological thriller abIt took me forever to get into this story, and—if I’m honest—I’m not sure I ever completely got there.
I loved the idea of a psychological thriller about the emotional spiraling of a grief-stricken psychiatrist. There is something intriguing about a doctor who helps others but is unable to help herself. Meredith recently faced a tragedy, and the author does a good job of portraying her bleak life. I also understood her sense of guilt. Unfortunately, it doesn’t make up for the predictable storyline and unlikeable characters.
Also, I don’t handle second-hand embarrassment well. No matter how much Meredith justifies her unhealthy obsession with Gabriel, it’s cringey. It made me feel uncomfortable the entire time I was reading the story. Whenever she has the opportunity to do the sensible thing, she does the opposite.
The penny that drops at the end is unnecessary, contrived, and doesn’t add anything to the story. I think I will stick to Vi Keeland’s romance novels.
*I received an early copy from the publisher. Opinions are my own.*
The plot of The Surrogate sounded just messy enough to pique my interest but not so outlandish as to be implausible: dead wife and frozen egg3.5 stars
The plot of The Surrogate sounded just messy enough to pique my interest but not so outlandish as to be implausible: dead wife and frozen eggs, grieving husband, in-laws who want a grandchild, and a surrogate who falls for the husband.
I was worried the in-laws would be unreasonable, demanding, or territorial, but they are delightful. The fact that Sigmund (now there’s a name) is reluctant to become a father leads to interesting conflicts. Abby is just a kind, directionless soul who wants to do something good for others.
The story fast forwards weeks and months at a time, which caused a disconnect within me. I was hoping to experience Abby’s pregnancy right along with her, including all the firsts involved. Skipping over milestones robbed me of sensing that she was growing gradually in love with the baby–and with Sigmund. Keeping the couple separated for long periods of time failed to create the type of slow burn that I enjoy. Nonetheless, I was rooting for them all to be one big happy family.
This drama is wrapped in a heartwarming and romantic package.
Recommended for fans of: Dead spouse tropes Pregnancy Men who cook
A cute story by one of my favorite authors, Abby Jimenez. The revelation with Holly's grandma toward the end is hard to believe, but I like the two maA cute story by one of my favorite authors, Abby Jimenez. The revelation with Holly's grandma toward the end is hard to believe, but I like the two main characters. The letters they leave for each other are fun and sweet.
Angela (Reading Frenzy Book Blog)
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