My Own Bookshelves

Any story not completed will not garner a star rating. The review within the ‘spoiler’ is based solely on the reasons WHY it is a DNF for me.


A few facts to depart:
1. New author to me
2. Not recommended to me and selection was based on promo
3. Choose to read the ARC because of trope: Single Widowed Dad

The most compelling reason for risking a read was item 3. I have read some fantastic stories based on this trope that I would highly recommend. And, as unfair as it may seem, I can’t help but compare this story to those I have read and enjoyed. However, every book I read is compared to others so, this is not something new I do.

As a reader, I want both my heart and mind to be engaged. Unfortunately, this one did not deliver for me on both counts. As I stated above, I found myself comparing and contrasting, and came to the conclusion that this was an attempt at a ‘happy’ grief. And, honestly, that is where this story lost me. Grief may try and put on a happy face but always fails. Especially under the circumstances as presented in the plot. In the spirit of fairness, and thinking maybe it was me, l set it down —repeatedly. I tried to re-engage by skimming to further spots, and sadly, still could not connect with the H or with the overall story.

This lack of engagement and facing my first ever DNF romance book had me analyzing. In order to engage both organs- heart and brain- for an immersive read, I need for the story to‘show me’ and not ‘tell me’. The best description I can offer is that the story read like an exposition. I was offered facts and recounts of scenes without any emotional connection. Wondering if it was me or the writing style, I downloaded several excerpts by the same author. Which lead me to the conclusion hers is a writing style that does not connect with me personally.

So why bother with writing a review?
I have often soapboxed against those who DNF and write reviews with the argument “how can you review when you didn’t give it a chance?”
Well, now I understand.
Although I did skim and read sections of this novel trying to find something to connect with, I never did. Other readers who have enjoyed this story may not agree, and that’s completely fine. This review is not for them; it’s for those who follow my reviews as we have connection in preference in reading. Connection is important for me to love a story and lack of is why I could not finish.


This ARC was gifted in exchange for honest review.

Laura Rossi is a new author for me. I was gifted a copy of Skins as part of the Foster An Author event. What is wonderful about this event is that it matches authors and bloggers who may never have the opportunity to cross paths. Skins was an 'unknown' entity going in as I've never read any of her previous novels. It's a bad boy fighter meeting up with a girl he should never have. Circumstance doesn't allow them together but fate is fickle to give them a second chance.

What I liked: The story was gritty and dark. Neither character I felt were the boy/girl next door perfect. They were both flawed. And it was their flaws that drew them together. The book at half way point began to pick up the pace quickly that had me turning the pages to finish.

"She was an ocean of secrets that no man was allowed to sail."

The question always comes "why not 5 stars?" To be honest this happens with ARCs. Finally editing and sometime changes are made which I'm not privy at time of review. I guess I wanted a bit more of the characters themselves in the story. There was a lot of action and dialogue, but I never felt 100% in the headspace of the H/h to get a real connection.

I would recommend this read to those who love the mafia/wrong side of the tracks story and don't want any heartbreaking angst to steep in. When the action ramps up, there is no time for wrecking your heart - it's like a Jason Statham movie on the page. The question is: I adopted this author as an unknown to me, would I read her again? Yes, in a heartbeat. She kept me engaged in the story once the action picked up. With time and growth as a storyteller, I hope to see more insight into the characters she brings to the tale. 3.5 out of 5 stars for ARC version

This is a wonderful collection of short reads perfect for when you are looking for something quick and satisfying. There is something for everyone in this anthology. The stories range from fun and light to down right naughty.

One thing I will say about the anthology is each is a brand new release so I don't have anything that isn't new to me. Most are complete to not leave the reader on the edge of a cliff. There are a few that are starts, and anxiously stalking the authors for complete stories.

Best of all, this supports VetSPORTS. Always one for supporting charitable purchases. Well worth the one-click.

I recently commented that I was a fluffy butt reader. When I described what that is I illustrated as "guarantee HEA, just enough story tension to keep you engaged, plenty of steam and leave you with a big ol' grin". Now I wish I could have said "Read Reservations". Because Kindle Alexander delivers this with a check in every box plus more!

Normally I finish a book with a newly minted book boyfriend in my posse. Damn, seriously I cannot choose. First I was all over Levi - because cute boy next door and firm family values. And Thane was being well...an unintentional jerk but I still wanted to kick his ass. However, Kindle Alexander gives us a Pinocchio transformation in Thane that you can't help but want him to win his man! * Swoon * And Levi...yeah don't let those innocent looks fool you because HOT DAMN!

As a huge fan of all the previous books, it's a joy to see characters you've previously loved hop into the story. However, Kindle Alexander doesn't feel like you've missed out if you've not previously read. As always, they bring characters to full life and give the reader an experience of these wonderful secondary characters. All these characters lend to the story the necessary ingredients to keep you flipping page after page. Especially Julian - which HINT he needs his story next!

If you are new to Kindle Alexander and looking for something to make your heart happy, dive right into this read. If you are a fan, you won't be disappointed with yet another love story that will leave you grinning. 5 out of 5 stars.

One subtrope I enjoy and don't get enough of: suspense/thriller. Reading Prince Charming checked off all the necessary boxes for this subtrope. I mean I really haven't enjoyed a story in this arena since Sugar Bowl series from Sawyer Bennett. CD Reiss' execution was perfect. I had no idea where we were going and how it was going to all pan out but it was a thrilling page turner.

Keaton presents as this secretive man. Who is he? Why is wanting to appear to go straight? Why is he risking it all for Cassie? GADS! I waiver for him between RUN and CLING tight. There was just 'something about him'. Yes, as vague as that sounds you connect with Keaton and want him to get everything all the while not really know why you do. And Cassie. I love a strong heroine. This woman can bust balls with the best of them. She's not a whimpering, simpering heroine. Nope, she's got her own agenda and smart enough to get what she wants. But then her background is not lily white so now as a reader you aren't really sure who is the baddest possible bad guy at all. But sincerely the kicker? It is Keaton and Cassie's connection that seals the deal for the reader. It's instant. It's hot. It's well-written characters how can't keep their hands off each other nor can the reader off the book.

If you are a fan or a first time reader, you'll find yourself in love with the worlds CD Reiss creates. 5 out of 5 stars.

Mae Wood is quickly becoming a 'go-to' when thinking of an auto one-click author. Although I love consistent storytelling, I really appreciate when an author can give me original and entertaining all in one bite. This story is more than mature adults finding another chance at happily ever after. This is romance in real life. Characters with humor and smarts that you will find rooting for finding their perfect happy - which readers isn't book world happy but real world happy.

If you follow my reviews, you know I love (and prefer) a strong heroine. Amy delivers on all points. Young men sporting an eight pack worth of abs are drool worthy, but come on. I am a woman of a 'certain age' so YES I am all over that silver fox Thomas. But seriously it's not the romance or steamy - Ms Wood does deliver - it was how the characters navigated this world of blending families and blending past loves. You never empty that part of your heart and Mae Wood's characters give you that glimpse into finding a way to make it all work.

On the Fence: Okay I'm rather known as a Series Bully. I hate readers who series jump then complain in reviews about 'confusion' or 'lack of connection'. This book is set in the Pig & Barley universe. Do you have to read Plus One? No not really. But I really feel you will do a disservice if you skip to this. I think the background of Plus One is well worth the time to get understanding of Amy and Thomas' story connecting with Amy's past and present. In addition, I loved Plus One and think it remiss if I don't tell you to read it. ( my review here). But I can say this book could be read as a standalone < sentence typed under duress.

If you are not familiar with Mae Woods, she is a talented writer that brings original story ideas to romance. If you are looking for more mature characters, this story is for you. But for the love of my sanity, do read Plus One too. 5 out 5 stars.

Natasha Madison should definitely be added to your go-to when needing to read a rom-com that doesn't try to hard, seem too silly. Her writing is an effortless blend of humor and entertainment that is perfect for that curl up and get lost in the story day.

What makes the story so enjoyable is the couple themselves. Noah is a known cocky playboy. But when he decides that Kaleigh is the one, he never devolves in the douche behavior you see in this trope. Kaleigh isn't one to jump right into a relationship, but yet doesn't let her personal feelings get caught up in pushing Noah away. Yes, fellow readers, Ms. Madison gave me low angst, characters I liked with and great dialogue. When you are looking for entertainment, the story delivers.

Now, I am going to veer from normal soapbox where I tell you - read the series in order and don't be a series jumper - okay I'll let you here. Playboy runs parallel timeline with Boss that you 'don't have to'. But I'm telling you, you will read Boss if you haven't just to get more detail in THAT story. If you've never read Natasha Madison, Tempt the Playboy is a great introduction. If you are fan, you'll find the same quality of storytelling you expect from this rom-com writer. 4.5 out of 5 stars.

What are your favorite tropes? Marriage for Hire? Enemies to Lovers? Insta-Love? How about your H/h? Need a Billionaire? A pauper in need of saving the family 'farm'? The wallflower that is forever overlooked? Now take your trope, add your characters, mix in some cheeky British humor, and maybe have the author flip all the expectations on their heads and cook it up for a serving of --

The Bachelors!

Yes, it's the story that takes our most favorite tropes and with tongue in cheek spins a delightful contemporary journey for the reader to find your other half. As the saying goes, everybody needs somebody. Each one of the main characters have found their 'perfect' somebody - whether they care to admit it or not. But it goes without saying that secondary characters can make or break a fantastic read. Ms Carter offers up some of the best with family and friends joining the frey of who gets the mark in the win column. Besides the comedic elements, you've got the perfect romance with 'fade to black' that you'll find you can recommend to the most prudish of friends - but still feel that sizzle.

Worried because 3rd person isn't your thing? Eli Carter nails the writing and intertwining of each characters story that keeps you engaged that you don't realize you've reached The End . Concerned with another 'British' book? If you can watch Notting Hill, you'll clutch your eReader to prevent it from slipping with all the giggling that will ensue. And for this reader, it ended on the perfect note. Brilliant and satisfying conclusion --- for now.

This is definitely one to show up on my eReader when I want to just have fun with the story for re-read over and over again. 5+ out of 5 stars and personal favorite.



So, wait...you know I'm a huge Austen fan. Yet, not one peep. How about you read my thoughts on that aspect in my blog - My Own Bookshelves - for release day. In all seriousness, you do not need to nor be a fan of the classic to enjoy this fun and wicked ride.

I picked up this book with no idea what the story was. The title and short teaser had me in a giggle. And trust me when I say, Birthquake is just what this romance lover needed.

The best thing about this story was it’s complete reliability of the characters. Their awkward and charming personalities leaped off the page. Just someone you know you could be insta-friends in this romantic comedy. It’s delightful to see both the characters stumble and make those everyday couple mistakes. Secondary characters come in and fly out with wit and wisdom. Their families, jobs and friends are wonderfully entertwined with BL Berry wrapping you up in story without wringing you out in the drama.

Don’t worry, there is a minor twist that gives a little gasp and oh sh!t moment for those who need a bit of tension.

I don’t believe you need to have gone through the marriage and baby carriage to appreciate the humor Ms Berry brings the tale. I may have enjoyed parts more by holding a seasoned empathy. But this isn’t 8th grade health class meant to steer you clear of the maternity clock. Its fun and humor in the everyday that makes for an entertaining read.
4.5 out of 5 stars

Let me clarify: This book completely stands alone and no reason to 'need' to read book 1. However, I will state you are missing out if you don't read The Brightest Star.

So to the delight of this fangirl, she gave the readers as perfectly executed second chance story. Unlike other second chance stories where there is unending drama as to why our beloved couple aren't together from the start, this story starts off with relatable scenario. And that's where the story takes off to a will he/won't he win the girl.

But more than a romantic comedy, Ms Cranford offers a story with heart. You learn that Declan is ACTUALLY not that dude and is a good guy who made a mistake. The reader also learns that Jade isn't all snappy dialogue and to-die-for heels, but a flesh and blood person with a few reasons not to full trust this feeling.

Ms. Cranford shows the reader she is more than contemporary romance and can expand her writing skills to give the readers giggles, gasps and a few tears. Perfectly paced and never dragging - this story keeps you engaged. Whether or not you've read her debut, this is a story you'll want to pick up and buy because you'll find it as a re-read for when you need a well-balanced story. 5 out of 5 stars.

For an expanded version of my review, check out my blog post at this link

Amazing. Darker. Hopeful. Gritty.
And the one set of words I rarely say - I never saw that coming.

Katy Regnery once again delivers the best in reading contemporary romance, and does so brilliantly with this unexpected tale. First, do not be wary of the title. You'll get a HEA that you know the characters will deserve as Ms Regnery never lets her readers down. But getting there?

Mind.Blown

I feel that I am a rarity amongst the readership where I want - no - I demand that there is equal strength in the main characters. I felt I understood the whys of where Brynn and Cass are when their paths cross due to the perfect depth in the delivery of the back story.

Brynn. She is the ideal in a heroine I look for. Soft and vulnerable when needed, but delivers a strength that moves the story to an amazing conclusion. She's the friend you count on. The person you wish the best of everything. The woman you admire for her quiet tenacity and perseverance.

The reader knows: She feels unloved.

Cass. He is the troubled hero. The one you want to fix and make things better. Yet, you comprehend that with circumstance and time, why this man is this man. He is the gentle giant who will give the shirt off his back. The person you wish the best of everything but understand why not possible. The man you admire for his strength of belief and devotion.

The reader knows: He believes he should be unloved.

What happens when two people who have the best reasons for being unloved find each other in unusual circumstances? You have this story. When I say that Ms Regnery writing is magical, I am not talking about a separation from reality. I want to be entertained, but I don't handle when the writing veers and tries too hard. This story - wow - it kept me compelled to continue until wee hours of the night because I was equal vested in their outcome. The reading was paced where the pages flowed flawlessly. I finished the story feeling fulfilled as I always do with Katy's writing. And yet, this was different and intriguing to have me still thinking about it days after finishing.

If you are a fan of Katy Regnery's Blueberry Lane/Heart of Montana series, this is a departure from those happy and delightful stories. But I implore you to read it because she delivers something equally if not better in this story. If you are a fan of Ms Regnery's fairytales, I know you will be enamored for this tale to join their ranks. Not a fan? You soon will be. This is a 5 star read for me and yet feels like those are not enough to express how much I loved this story.

First off, a book about the world of OS and security solutions with a hack that can unman your whole world. Oh, I forgot there is also a romance there too. And OH BOY , I have a new book boyfriend in Taylor.

What I loved:
This will be in two parts: Geek and NonGeek

Part 1 Geek -
This is going to be hard to describe for me being a geek/nerd (I accept both titles) to my non-geek/nerd book friends. It’s the flow of thought in which Taylor thinks about the issues that are occurring to him and his company. Ms Reiss captures the rapid fire, short span that anyone who does coding has a tendency to think and speak in. Your thoughts are moving at the speed of light. She represents this little quirk brilliantly and makes Taylor both believable and endearing at the same time without losing the non-geek in geek speak.

Part 2 NonGeek -
There are so many layers to the story. It’s more than romance. There is a suspense story that is so layered it was completely unpredictable where CD Reiss was leading the characters and kept me gripped in needing to know ‘what’s next’. Her characters were deep and flawed. No one was immune to the deficiency which kept the story believable and engaging.

So and by the way, I want to sign up for any future classes Taylor Harden wish to deliver. Oh my damp panties YESSS!

If you’ve never read CD Reiss, this is a fantastic standalone to get a taste of something deeper she delivers. I can’t wait for the next story. If you are a fan, I will say this story is far more layered and twisty but very well worth the read. 5 out of 5 hacker stars

Tia Louise once again hits us with an entertaining read that will fit in with contemporary romance needs. If you are a fan of second chances, this will be doubly enjoyable.

Jackson and Ember have a slow burn development when Jackson comes back to Oceanside to think about what direction his life will take. Neither character expects the other and there is a lot of unanswered questions yet to be sorted out from their past. They do the ‘will they/won’t they’ dance for 55% of the story. Then Ms. Louise starts interspersing in the details of the past that help these two love birds get a HEA. However, there is a lot more story she delivers that is added in before the reader reaches ‘The End’.

If you are a fan of Tia Louise’s work, this is far more ‘sweeter’ and less sexy than some of her previous offerings. However, she continues with the faster paced style of writing with angst to sort out before conclusion that readers have come to enjoy. If you are first time reader, be prepared for a evenly paced story that picks up speed and revelations you didn’t see coming as the story unfolds in the second half. 4 out of 5 Stars

What I Loved:
It’s second chance which is my favorite of contemporary romance. The characters were both equally strong and not overly dramatic. They just seemed to fit effortlessly together. Coco, Ember’s daughter, is a delight in each scene without being a scene stealer. Her role in the story blends in with the second chance theme.

Final Thoughts:
There is a lot - I mean a lot of story - in the second half. The revelations behind why they weren’t together are revealed along with Jackson’s reasons of returning to Oceanside. To borrow a turn of phrase, I felt information overload. I wished as a reader that one of the two elements - why they were apart or Jackson’s troubles - were introduced earlier and given time to develop and resolve rather than all of it at the end.

This free ARC was provided by the author/ publisher in exchange for an unbiased opinion. No type of compensation was made. There is no relationship/affiliation between the reviewer and the author/publisher.

From the release of the blurb and cover reveal, this has been on my anticipated reading list for the fall. Sometimes I just want my romance to solely whisk me away for a few hours. Not wring me out or leave me with a book hangover. I want my story selection to make me want to dive back into my bookshelves for more of this genre I love. And Ms Rothert delivered for this reader.

Now what can I tell you? I won't regurgitate the story because this is something to enjoy for yourself.
However, you know I'm picky when it comes to heroines. Strong and no doormats apply. Sienna Mills clicks all my checkboxes and yet...she's balanced so her character doesn't come off as a man eater. She is independent and not needing or looking for Mr Right until he falls into her inbox. The secondary characters are delightful and add to the story without overshadowing the H/h interactions. This book is like falling into a sitcom and coming out with a smile.

If you've never read Brenda Rothert's work, this is a great 'starter' story. It stands alone and gives you insight to her talent with a wonderful HEA. If you are a fan, this is one of those fun reads you can kick back on a lazy afternoon and binge on. 4.5 out of 5 stars.

I needed something really, truly funny. I mean I read alot of romcom. Disclaimer: I'm a rather punny person so my funny bone is tough to tickle, and I read with an internal dialogue of "heh heh that was funny". But there is this scene in the book, I literally had to set down my kindle three times before I could pick it back up. I'd re-read the line and start howling out loud again. My Hubs decided I lost it. And never so happy to have lost it because to have me busting out laughing is a feat.

Ben and Trevor: Wow - what can I say about them as characters. Mr Banner gives us everything you expect in the cocky CEO seduces the young intern storyline. But really the heart of the story is Ben and Trevor learning each other as Ben and Trevor. There are hiccups and hilarity abounds in the story because this relationship is doomed to not go smoothly. I'd expect that from the blurb. However, the author gives us time to immerse in the characters when it's just them . As a reader able to form that attachment we crave as readers wanting to get lost in the story.

I devoured the story in a day. That alone should tell you something. Daryl Banner has set the bar for funny now.

If you've not read Mr Banner's work before and a fan of the romcom, this story is a great start. My version also contains a few novellas that you can wet your appetite a bit further. If you are a fun of his work, once again he delivers the best in entertaining romance. 5 out of 5 stars

There is something about an overbearing asshole I love in a story. I think because when the author writes a fabulous counter part, the heroine is an equally strong person I can relate to. Rebecca Gallo has hit the right notes with her debut novel in Jameson and Georgie.

Although the synopsis would indicate that it is a political romance, the story focuses on the microscope that once you reach the interest in the pubic eye. Poor Jameson and Georgie cannot catch a break. Once one thing finally gets smoothed over, it seems like another issue is waiting in the wings which is all played out for the entertainment of the masses. The plot is a based on 'fiancee for hire' and Jameson tries his damnedest to make sure that everyone is aware that his singular focus is on winning the White House. But when you spend quality time with someone, it's hard for the heart to not to get involved. In typical romance fashion, lovely and giving Georgie who falls hard first. Wishes- as weird as it may seem - I wish at times there could have been more tension between the two as Jameson was almost my perfect asshole. However, if we are discussing sexual tension, Ms. Gallo can write a steamy scene and make you feel oh so swoony.

To be honest, I rarely take a chance on a debut author unless I have a trusted friend go first . I was fortunate to have won an ARC along with a friend. We both loved it. Now...here's the trying-not-to-be-spoiler. If you stop at the last chapter, you will have a very satisfyingly entertaining read. If you venture to the epilogue...you get a NO WAY moment. And you'll be with me waiting for the release of Capital Promises this fall. For a debut author, Rebecca Gallo has talent and can't wait to see what she offers next! 4.25 out of 5 stars