A Legend in the Baking by Jamie Wesley - 5 Stars!

August Hodges was the silent partner in Sugar Blitz Cupcakes. That is until his rant about how women bakers are the backbone of the industry and baking cupcakes isn’t a threat to masculinity goes viral. With a new location in the works, August and his partners decide to capitalize on this opportunity. But the hiring of his best friend’s sister was as much of a shock as his fame. Social media manager Sloane Dell fell hard for her brother’s best friend more than a decade ago, but that infatuation cost her dearly. Still, she accepts her brother’s request to revamp the bakery’s social media presence and take advantage of August’s newfound popularity. Now, if she can only ignore her attraction to August. They vow to leave the past in the past. But can they ignore the feelings they still share? As they’re both about to find out, all’s fair in love and cupcakes.

I absolutely love this story. It's a contemporary romance about two people who have baggage from prior relationships, coming together and finding a way to be happy. And it has cupcakes! The main characters were adorable, and I could feel the chemistry between them jumping off the page. There was just enough heat to make it interesting without going overboard. Even though this romance was part of a series, I didn't feel like I was missing anything, as this was the first story I read by this author. I definitely will read another story from this author. Thanks to NetGalley and St. Martin's Press for this advanced reader's copy. This review is my honest opinion.

 

Look Before You Leap by Virginia Heath - 3 Stars!

Years ago, Lord Guy Harrowby, Viscount of Wennington, was humiliated when a romantic gesture went wrong. Since then, he hasn't wanted to date, let alone get married and have children, despite the promise he made to his mother. His heart now lies with his land and work. In desperation, his mother decides to bring society to him via a weeklong house party so that she can find a suitable match for him. After failing as a governess, Lottie Travers isn’t proving to be any better at being a lady’s companion. As the only girl in an all-male household growing up, she’s developed several bad habits. Even after years of Miss Prentice’s teachings, Lottie still climbs a tree better than she embroiders and can't seem to curb the desire to ride a horse in breeches. But with the family farm in trouble, and her father in need of her wages, she’s determined to concentrate on her career. There is only one woman that catches Guy’s eye. And Lottie can't seem to stop thinking about the grumpy Lord. Can these two open their eyes and realize that they may just be the perfect match?

When I first started reading this story, I was entranced. I loved the main characters, and how totally opposite they were from each other. I was able to see the romance between them come alive. The plot was why I continued to read this story until the end. What made it utterly frustrating though was how much descriptive language there was. When describing what one character was wearing took three pages, and each chapter was at least 25 minutes long, it became one of the slowest reads I've ever had to deal with. I love reading romance, both historical and contemporary, but when the pacing is off, it makes it harder for me to enjoy it. Thanks to NetGalley and St Martin's Press for this advanced reader's copy. This review is my honest opinion.

 

Maybe This Once by Sophie Sullivan - 3 Stars!

Charlotte “Charlie” Ashford has worked hard. Tired of living in the shadow of her parents, she left behind a life of prestige to become a counselor. However, when a viral video upends Charlie’s plans, she wonders if the real key to discovering herself is through taking a vacation from herself. Grayson Keller has finally found his footing. He’s settled in one place, surrounded by family, and secure in his business. Whatever happens, Grayson is perfectly content with his quiet life and careful heart. That is, until he meets Charlie. Maybe this once, they can see past the hurt in their hearts to what, or who, is on the other side waiting for them.

This was a good contemporary sweet romance to read on the beach having a lazy day. I loved the setting, with the lodge and the small lake town. I loved the characters and understood the relationships between them even though this is the first story I've read from this author. I felt that the pacing was off, and some chapters seemed too wordy. Thanks to NetGalley and St Martin's Press for this advanced reader's copy. This review is my honest opinion.

 

The Reflection Room by Cindy Kirk - 4 Stars!

Hope owns a bridal shop that has a unique gift. She places an intended bride on a pedestal in front of a special mirror that shows Hope the right dress for the bride. But she wonders why she never sees herself in a wedding gown. Hope is an independent minded woman who fears opening her heart because she doesn't want to get hurt. But what happens when the right man comes along?

I really liked this contemporary romance with a touch of magic. Hope is an interesting character, and I loved reading about her perspective on the relationships in her life. The setting was very well described, and I enjoyed reading about the festivals and local events. I will definitely read more from this series.

 

From This Moment On by Bella Andre - 5 Stars!

For thirty-six years, Marcus Sullivan has been the responsible older brother. But when the future, he's planned turns out to be nothing but a lie, Marcus needs one night to shake free from it all. Nicola Harding is known as Nico, the pop star. Only her sexy image is totally false. After a terrible betrayal, she vows not to let anyone else get too close or hurt her again. Especially not the gorgeous stranger she meets at a nightclub. One night is all Nicola and Marcus agree upon. But nothing goes as they plan when they find a deeper connection than they anticipated. Can Nicola and Marcus open their heart and find their happily ever after?

This was a fabulous contemporary romance that I found on my Kindle after organizing it. I am so glad that I was able to read this wonderful story. The characters were fun to read about, and I felt their romantic connection all the way through the story. The Sullivan family is large enough that there will be more books for me to read. I can't wait; my TBR just became much larger!

 

Stealing Home by Sherryl Woods - 5 Stars!

Maddie Townsend's life in Serenity has been turned upside down when her husband leaves her for a younger woman. With her three children heartbroken, Maddie has to return to the workforce, and take charge of her best friends' newest project, the town's only fitness spa for women. When her son's anger issues begin to affect his love for baseball, Maddie steps in to help. But she didn't expect to develop feelings for her son's coach, Cal Maddox, and learn he has feelings for her, too. But their new relationship may threaten both their reputations and careers. Could he be the one man in all of South Carolina who can help her find serenity?

One day a friend came over to my house. She told me about this series she found on Netflix that had been running for a couple of seasons, and it was called Sweet Magnolias. I had never heard of it and so we decided to watch. And it's now one of my favorite shows. When I found out it was a book series I wanted to read it and I have to say I loved this book. Even though it's slightly different than the TV show, the plot and the setting came alive in my mind as if I was watching the show. I enjoyed this book thoroughly, and I recommend it to anyone who loves the series.

 

The Heir by Johanna Lindsey - 5 Stars!

 

Highlander Duncan MacTavish finds himself summoned to the bedside of his dying English grandfather, Lord Neville Thackeray. He finds out that he's betrothed to Ophelia, whose beauty is surpassed only by her cruel nature. He attends a house party where he meets the Honorable Sabrina Lambert and finds her a breath of fresh air. Unfortunately, rumors taint Sabrina's family name, ensuring that she will never be able to secure a match. Duncan's only friend to help him endure Ophelia and an endless parade of other eligible women, Sabrina is adept at making him laugh. After all, she spent most of her life diffusing the tension between her battling maiden aunts. But Duncan begins to realize that his feelings for Sabrina are more than friendly.

I've always loved Johanna Lindsey's writing. She was a great historical romance writer whose stories had me staying up late reading. This one was a great example. Her characters were memorable; some I loved and some I loved to hate. She had a knowledge of Regency England and used her words to create an atmosphere where I could feel what it was like to live in that time period. And the romance was always tasteful with just enough heat. I definitely recommend this story to historical romance readers.

Rebound: Connor and MacKenzie by Cindy Kirk - 5 Stars!

After competing for several years, MacKenzie Lockhart is back in Good Hope. She’s focused on coaching, family, and staying grounded. Romance isn’t part of the plan until Connor Brody moves in next door. Connor came home to regroup. After learning that patience can feel safer than desire, he’s content to keep his heart guarded. But the closer he gets to Mac, the harder it is to ignore his feelings for her.

This contemporary romance is the reason why I love Cindy Kirk's writing. Her romances always leave me with an uplifted feeling. I believe we all need that right now. Her characters are loveable, her settings are memorable, and the plots leave you feeling hopeful. I recommend this story.

 

The Viscount Who Loved Me by Julia Quinn - 4 Stars!

Anthony Bridgerton has decided to marry and has chosen a wife. But he has to get passed her older sister, Kate Sheffield. The schemer is driving Anthony mad with her determination to stop the betrothal, but when he sleeps at night, Kate is the woman haunting his dreams. Kate believes that reformed rakes don't make the best husbands, and Anthony Bridgerton is the most wicked rogue of them all. Kate is determined to protect her sister, but she fears her own heart may fall to the rake.

This was a great love story worthy of this fascinating time period. I love these historicals because they're filled with humor, and witty banter. My only issue was the pacing; the story is not fast paced at all. But it's a worthy read.

 

Touch Her and Die by Jolie Vines - 5 Stars!

Daisy was a young woman trapped by her relatives. They wanted her to join their illegal activities. So, she ran away right into the arms of Ben. Ben is a bodyguard with just one rule: don't get attached. But his feelings for Daisy makes him break his rule and defend her. But can he open his heart to her?

I was surprised at how much I loved this book. The characters were likable and quirky. The plot was full of suspense and romance with a good dollop of heat. The setting was so beautifully described that it made me want to visit Scotland. I will most definitely read another story from this wonderful series.

 

Cross Your Heart and Hope He Dies by Jenny Elder Moke - 5 Stars!

Juliette Winters is used to taking care of herself. She has no time for romance, or friendships. She's busy dominating the publishing world by single-handedly saving her company from financial ruin with the book deal of the century. Business magnate Warren Ellingham has guaranteed Juliette exclusive rights to his memoir that promises to expose the secrets of his exclusive country club, Pacific Pines. But when Warren is murdered and the memoir is stolen, Juliette starts an investigation and enlists the help of Charlie Hawkins, a hot doctor with a heart of gold. As the investigation heats up, so does the tension between Juliette and Charlie. But Juliette can't afford any distractions. If she doesn't uncover Warren's killer soon, the thing that was supposed to secure her future might just be the thing that ends it.

I love this author. I have read two of her books and both of them are laugh out loud funny. Juliet is a wonderful character full of quirks and idiosyncrasies that she tries to keep hidden so she can look perfect all the time. But her perfectionism catches up to her and the hijinks that ensues made me laugh time and time again. I love books that end happily and have a funny bone. Thanks to NetGalley and St Martin's Press for this advanced Readers copy. This review is my unbiased opinion.

 

The Writer and the Rogue by Lydia Drake - 1 Star!

Desperate times call for drastic measures, and Miss Caroline Devereux has decided to blackmail the Earl of Rockford to save her family from utter ruin. Either they marry, or Caroline will spill the Earl's secrets to all of society. Can they find love together?

When I first read the blurb for this book, I was interested. But as I started reading, I found myself not liking the heroine. She seemed very selfish and unlikable, which was very shocking because I liked the last book that I read from this author. Why couldn't other people in her family get a job? This story just wasn't for me. I would like to thank NetGalley and Entangled Publishing, LLC for the opportunity to read this advanced reader's copy. This review is my honest opinion.

 

The Duke and I by Julia Quinn - 4 Stars!

Simon Basset and Daphne Bridgerton have decided to pretend they are courting, so Simon doesn't have to deal with marriage-minded society mothers. And Daphne will attract some worthy suitors. But as Daphne waltzes with Simon, it's hard to remember that their courtship is a sham. Can she convince Simon to give their love a chance?

This was a great love story filled with intense emotions, and steamy bedroom scenes. The main characters were opposites, but their attraction leaped off the page, and you could feel the emotional connection. The one thing that I did not like was that each chapter was so long. In my opinion, it threw the pacing off. But I will continue to read the rest of the series. This review is my honest opinion.

 

Road Trip with a Rogue by Kate Bateman - 5 Stars!

Daisy Hamilton’s new mission for King & Co., a London private investigation firm, is to stop heiress Violetta Brand from eloping. But her case is derailed when she mistakenly holds up the carriage of Lucien Vaughan, Duke of Cranford, the very man who broke her heart five years ago. Lucien’s determined to see his nephew married to Miss Brand, but the appearance of Daisy, the one woman he’s never been able to forget, could ruin his plans. As they follow the couple together, Lucien decides that delaying Daisy by any means possible will be his absolute pleasure, and hers. After Daisy’s reputation is threatened, and an unexpected enemy threatens her life, he realizes she’s the only woman for him. Can he prove to her that his love is true?

Miss Bateman writes is one of the best historical romance writers today. Her characters are always fun to read about, the plots are so engrossing that you don't want the story to end, and there's just enough heat to make the whole read thoroughly satisfying. If you're looking for a historical romance, with great characters, enough action to keep you turning the pages, and a happily ever after, look no further. Thanks to St Martin's Press and NetGalley for this advanced reader's copy. This review is my honest opinion.

 

In Her Highlander's Bed by Lynsay Sands - 4 Stars!

An invigorating swim in the loch was exactly what Calan Campbell, Laird of Kilcairn, needed after a battle. What he didn't need was a thief trying to steal his plaid. Calan gave chase and managed to catch the lad, only it turned out to be a lass. Having hit her head, the woman was now unconscious and couldn't explain how she had ended up bruised and naked in the woods. Kidnapped and forced to wed her clan's enemy, Allissaid MacFarlane had risked death to escape. But after being chased, she awakens in a strange bed with a strange man seated in a chair beside her. Unsure if he's a friend, she claims not to remember anything. However, the more time she spends with Calan, the more she falls for him. She soon decides she can trust him with her life. But can she trust him with her heart?

I really liked this historical romance because it seemed to have a lot of heart, and a lot of action that kept me wanting to go back to it. The main characters were likable and entrancing. I was always wondering when something was going to happen, and they would have a disruption in their budding relationship. The time period was beautifully described and showcased the best and the worst of those times. An entrancing romance, a diabolical plot, and a beautiful historical setting, that is why I liked this story. Thanks to Avon and Harper Voyager for this advanced reader's copy. This review is my honest opinion.

 

The Possibility Wing by Cindy Kirk - 5 Stars!

When librarian Cora Summerbell returns to GraceTown, she expects only a quiet reset. Instead, she discovers a forgotten wing in the old Carnegie Library, shelves lined with mysterious books that reveal the alternate lives she might have lived. Each volume draws her deeper into a spellbinding blend of romance, and what-if possibilities. But the more she explores these other destinies, the more she begins to understand the truth buried in them. The life she’s meant to live is still waiting for her to claim it.

This is a very interesting romance. Cora was a woman at a crossroads in her life, and she felt like she had no direction. That's what sets up the theme and the gist of this story. Every choice we make changes our lives, for the good or for the bad. We must be conscious enough to understand that and to choose wisely. I have said this before; Cindy Kirk is a clever author who has these lessons wrapped up in a gorgeous romance and a beautiful setting. Her writing draws you in and you can't let go until the end of the story. Thank you, Ms. Kirk, for granting me the honor of reading this wonderful romance. This review is my honest opinion.

 

Second Time's the Charm & Her Secret Billionaire by Brenda Jackson, Yahrah St. John - 4 Stars!

In Second Time's the Charm by Brenda Jackson, part-time rancher and musician Dylan Emanuel never forgot his romance with Charm Outlaw. Nor the pain of their sudden breakup—and her father’s demands to stay away. When they cross paths on vacation, Dylan can’t resist inviting her to his ranch, and Charm can’t resist a little payback. Will revenge lead to a second chance…or the truth about what really happened the first time around?

In Her Secret Billionaire by Yahrah St. John, chef Egypt Cox flirts with a stranger at her restaurant, and he ends up with amnesia! Their chemistry is delectable. But when Egypt discovers her mystery lover is Garrett Forrester, his secrets may threaten their newfound connection.

These two stories were wonderful reads with charming characters and plots that made me turn the page until the end where the happy ending was revealed. I honestly liked the first one better than the second one, but the second one had more steamier scenes. But I recommend this book to anyone who likes a steamy contemporary romance. Thanks to NetGalley and Harlequin Romance for this advanced reader's copy. This review is my unbiased opinion.

 

She Doesn't Have A Clue by Jenny Elder Moke - 4 Stars!

Why mystery author Kate Valentine agreed to attend her ex-fiancé’s wedding is its own enigma, but she’ll plaster on a fake smile for two nights, with the aid of free champagne, naturally. And since the groom is her editor, she’ll try to finish a draft of her latest Loretta Starling mystery as a wedding gift. But when the bride is poisoned and a dead body is found, Kate finds herself in a real-life mystery. The only person who seems willing to help Kate catch the killer is Jake Hawkins, Kate's biggest romantic regret. Can Kate find the true culprit before someone else drops dead?

This was the absolute funniest story I have read in a while. It was a mixture of a cozy mystery and a romantic comedy with a lot of heat and a smattering of cursing. The only thing that really took away from my enjoyment was the cursing. I believe that authors don't need to curse, there are so many other good words in the English language that they could use instead. I will definitely read more from this author again. Thanks to NetGalley and St Martin's Press for this advanced reader's copy. This review is my honest opinion.

 

Love, the Duke by Amelia Grey - 2 Stars!

When the Duke of Hurstbourne receives a letter from his childhood friend asking him to marry his sister Ophelia, Hurst declines because he believes in love at first sight. Because of society’s strict propriety for ladies, Ophelia Stowe has to present herself as a man to seek the Duke of Hurstbourne’s favor. If not for a missing antiquity, she wouldn’t have asked for help from the handsome man who had rebuffed her. Can she save her family name, and find a love that will last forever?

Even though I liked the characters in this story, the pace was off, and the story dragged and I found it very boring. At this point, I usually put the book down. I will read other stories from this author because I've enjoyed some of her other works. Thanks to NetGalley and St Martin's Press for this advanced reader's copy. This review is my honest opinion.

 

Promise: John & Zoe by Cindy Kirk - 4 Stars!

Zoe Goodhue came home to Good Hope with a broken heart. Then she finds herself working alongside John Logan, the man who changes her mind about love. But John carries a secret that could shatter the trust growing between them. In a town built on community, Zoe must decide if she can open her heart to a second chance or walk away before it’s broken again.

Every time I read a Cindy Kirk romance, I find teachable moments and themes that touch my life and I hope touch everyone else's. I believe the theme in this story is about believing in yourself and not settling for a love that is not true. This story, like all the others in this series and the Good Hope series, are filled with wonderfully created characters in a town that I would move to if it actually existed. This is a town where everyone knows and respects their neighbor, there are social programs that help families in need and a community that actually cares. If you want to read a clean, and charming romance, look no further! Thank you, Ms. Kirk, for the opportunity to read this romance. This review is my honest opinion.