My Own Bookshelves

Plus One

4:00 pm 11 August 2017

First Off, I am a totally big sucker for the 'single dad' storyline. When I saw the opportunity for cover re-reveal/sales blitz, no words other than "Where do I sign up?" were spoken by yours truly. Give me the book recommendation to read from my friend at Panda & Boodle - SOLD!

Bert is the perfect hot, tatted, alpha males all us romance readers swoon to find. Drennan is the perfect blend of strong, determined yet owns her femininity. Together the chemistry on the pages starts with a slow burn and eventually gets hotter with each page turn. Add PLUS Grady is not the typical child to the single dad. But a high school senior ready to be his own man. Some of the best advice came straight from the mouths of babes.

I loved that the author gave us a May/December romance but turned the tables to consider what if one makes the choices that don't seem possible. The tension was just perfect and didn't veer into ridiculously over cute where younger characters can go. Drennan had lived a full life in a short time. Her approach was winner take the hot guy behind the bar!

This was a first time read by Mae Wood and surely will not be my last. It's everything that I look for in an entertaining story. So, yes my hearts & flowers unicorn loving heart was full by the end. I'm now a firm #fangirl and can't wait to read more from this author. 5 out 5 stars

Coastal Elite

4:00 pm 6 August 2017

Jordan and April are a match made on Long Island heaven. He's not looking for Ms Right and she's just taking the time to enjoy her life on the island. When the ocean decides they are ready for a meet up, well you can't fool Mother Nature and allow her to take the job over for you.

If you are looking for a quick, hot read with a bit of a twist, then this story is RIGHT what you need to get you out of the summer reading slump. Although an interconnected story to Ms Canterbary's Walsh Family, seriously Coastal Elite stands on its own. I loved both characters equally and again completely in love with Kate Canterbary's ability to deliver real characters worth reading.

But... I did guess the twist. Which isn't why the 1/2 star reduction. The ending felt too quick. Now here's where I waiver. Was it really too quick? or am I the reader disappointed because I wanted more of the characters story? Yes, the jury is still out as I argue with myself over this one.

If you've not read Kate's stories and looking for an introduction, I would say this is a perfect book to read and decided.

4.5 out of 5 stars

Swink

4:00 pm 5 August 2017

I've read every single Landry mans book and have not been disappointed. However, we finally get a peep into one of the twin's life and love.

Swink is definitely one of those books you could series hop. Not that I condone that type of behavior. But truly it doesn't cover relationships introduced in previous books that would lend confusion. The author picks up with the budding of the relationship between Cam and Dom. Ms. Locke gives just enough back telling for how they found each other. There is some overlapping family dynamic tension that again, Ms Locke weaves back through without getting bogged down. Although I say 'budding', really the main characters have been doing the 'casual' for about 10 months. Each playing at this is just 'casual'. However, when they finally face facts this isn't casual and need to address the many elephants in the room, the relationship turns serious. For me, I wished I saw more character evolution in Cam as we did in Dom. She's steadfast in her beliefs and desires but I think there is still room for growth. Whereas Dom, as a reader, it was clear what his holdbacks were and how he was going to need to overcome them in order to move forward.

The book was entertaining and as a fan of the series completely enjoyed the read. Bring on the Gibson Boys! 4 out of 5 stars

Fresh Catch

4:00 pm 5 August 2017

We want to be loved. Whether or not we go looking for it, think we have time for it, or even deserve it, weighs in on the effort. These men have a (somewhat) comfortable existence in their lives. They know what they want and need. It the joy and heartache of a romantic relationship they feel is for other men. It's just the tide hasn't washed in the right man yet.

Both characters are out. Not out and loud out. But out. Kate Canterbary though shows these men as not 'out' with who they really want to be - this is Owen and Cole's story. Circumstances bring them together. There is a draw. However, too much unsaid hangs between them. Can they both take a chance at exposing their soft underbellies to the other? Are they willing to risk the hurt to gain the deep affection they deserve?

There is so much more to these characters then what you can see from the top of the waters. Kate takes the reader's hand down the distance line and dives deeper than their surface. You understand the characters hesitation and missteps. But after you reach near the end of your line, Kate guides the readers and characters to a perfect break in the surface to have something to hold onto forever.

Once again, Ms Canterbary amazes me with the depth of her characters, brilliance in writing a story that will touch you and linger there for days. It's a love story to be savored not devoured. If you are a new reader to Kate, this is a great introduction to her writing genius and devotion to telling a fantastic story. If you are a fan but new to MM genre, you'll see its all love. For fans of her Walsh series, she gives us an Easter egg that is always fun to read from another characters POV. Regardless, this is a story not to be missed.

PUCKED Over

4:00 pm 4 August 2017

Review Pending
5.0 out of 5.0 stars

Beard in Mind (Winston Brothers Book 4)

4:00 pm 3 August 2017

With each Penny Reid story I pick up, I'm always inspired and delighted with her writing. Once again, I am completely enamored with her ability to take not a fun subject and breathe life into it. Ms Reid doesn't make fun or shines up the uniqueness of each character. She serves their story on a plate extraordinarily crafted just for them. This story offers me hope that each individual will find their person that will give a perfect for them HEA.

Beau and Shelly- they are the perfect enemies to lovers. Neither one wants to understand the other much less give the time to even try. But the draw that pulls them overcomes their minds objections when their hearts finally take over the driver's seat. I don't want to go into depth on their story. It's one left best to experience. And I'm going to put my foot down, do not series jump. These characters deserve their backstory from the others in the series in order to appreciate their journey.

I don't hide it. I am a HUGE Penny Reid fangirl. She writes witty without being condescending. She writes smart without going over your head. She writes unique and adorable characters you need to spend the time to invest in. Read the series, you won't be disappointed with book 4.
PS: This is the HOTTEST Winston Brothers books to date.
5 out of 5 stars

The Spire

4:00 pm 31 July 2017

This was the most unexpected and now favorite book in the Walsh Family saga. Kate Canterbury had me taken unawares and delighted me in the best possible way.

So this is about Erin and ? Yes, I’m not going to be that person. I’m sure you can find reviews who tells you who it is. But don’t. If you’ve read the series, you probably have a clue. But why spoil it.

Although our hero is important as a loyal and loving partner, it’s Erin who steals the show in this engaging read. See, she is always on the fringes in the other stories. She is colored most often in an unflattering light from those character’s POV. So why care about a character who wants distance from her dysfunctional family? Because it’s Erin’s social awkwardness and intelligence that is so attractive to the reader. She has decisions to make that will impact her future greatly. Regardless of location or vocation, in her shoes, Kate Canterbary gives the reader insight on how hard it is to balance all work/life expectations. I thought Sam was tough to read, however Erin brought her own real baggage and one I could relate to all too closely.

Sometimes series are like wine, each one improves with age and experience of being. But this series is so unique and engaging. Kate Canterbury keeps the ideas fresh and the reader engaged. When you get to this book - because you will read in order- you’ll find all the pieces come together brilliantly. 5 out of 5 stars.  

Preservation (The Walsh Series Book 7)

4:00 pm 31 July 2017

Sincerely, this IS my favorite book of the series. Not because it was the last one. Not because I fell deeper in love with Kate Canterbary’s storytelling. Nope, it’s because she saved the most complicated and emotional story for The End .

Riley is the goofy younger brother. The light in the dark moments. The eye roll when serious words are said. Consistently the Lou Costello to the entire family of Bud Abbotts. But lingering in the background, the reader knows there is more to RISD than unzipped flies and coffee stains. Ms. Canterbary does more than deliver. This is the PERFECT story delivery that you didn’t even know you wanted. You’ll have eye opening experiences with flashbacks to the previous POVs with delightful clarity.

And I haven’t mentioned the heroine. Let’s just say, you know it would take someone special. Someone who could meet Batman every step into a Happily Ever After. She is definitely found in this story.

Let me end with if you’ve read every single review for the Walsh series I’ve written, I saw repeatedly I’ve stated to read in order and read them all. To truly appreciate Riley’s story it is imperative this happens. Otherwise you are short changing yourself. If I could give this book 10 stars I would. It was every emotion laced together. Often readers are sad to see a series end, but what I send off Ms. Canterbary gave us. 5 out of 5 stars.

Restored

4:00 pm 30 July 2017

This is the book I needed for when I finished Necessary Restorations (my review here). Although I felt complete at the end of Sam and Tiel's story, there was a part of me that did want to learn more from their POV.

Reading Necessary Restorations is a necessity and all the books before. This book fits in the timeline and gives you insight to these characters interworking. As I stated before, Sam and Tiel are beautifully complex. And Kate Canterbary delivers an imperfect HEA. Because seriously, isn't that how real life is? Again the story gives you a mass of emotions without being 'ruined' and some great insight for the other Walsh members. I didn't expect this book to be any easier, and trust me, Ms. Canterbary delivers on this. But you'll become deeper engrossed in the tale and addicted for more Walsh family stories.

I find once I have an author that weaves a story that captures my attention, I will be forever drawn. It's hard to put into words how she captivates this reader, but this will be one series I know I will find myself re-reading over again like a favorite TV drama that you watch every time it's featured. 5 out of 5 stars.

The Cornerstone (The Walsh Series Book 4)

4:00 pm 29 July 2017

Now, this time I expect you to know me and truly believe me when I say: This is my favorite Walsh Family series book. Kate Canterbary has grasped my inner desire for a strong female lead in a male dominated world and BOOM gave her a hero to match.

Woot! It’s like someone has heard my poor reader's deepest desires and delivered that and MORE!

I mean COME on Will is the perfect and I mean perfect mate for Shannon. Hands down nailed the give and take, sexual tension and all the things I want in a contemporary romance. I already had a girl crush for Shannon before this book. After, I want to carry her children and worship her. She is a strong female lead - many would call a ball buster - but you get why and how she is molded to a driven and loving woman. Ms. Canterbary matches her up with a man who believes breaking and entering is permission to move in.

Again: Read the series in order.Start with book one. Especially to finally understand what makes this Walsh sibling tick. I will say this book is a welcome break after the emotional ride of book 3.

Each book that Kate Canterbary has delivered keeps me engrossed and turning the pages to learn more. Her characters are diverse in their real world issues so you are never bored or wanting to move on. Again a solid 5 out 5 star read for me and a personal favorite that I will re-read.

The Proof Is the Way It Hurts

4:00 pm 28 July 2017

This story will touch your heart with the perfection of second chances given a breath of life. Sometimes as young men and women, we miss the opportunities to seize real change and follow it. Part of growing up is making those mistakes and learning from it.

George is one who has made a mistake and doesn't let life get in the way of making up for it. What started as a bedtime story has bloomed into a perfect short story read about finding your happily ever after when the time is right.

Take a chance on George and Dylan and you will be justly rewarded. 5 out of 5 stars

Necessary Restorations

4:00 pm 28 July 2017

Okay this statement will and should surprise the hell out of you that THIS is my favorite Walsh Family series book. Kate Canterbary continues stuns me with her originality and engrossing storytelling that had me reading chapter after chapter with the inability to put it down until 'how will this end'. This story isn't easy. This story doesn't belong in the wheelhouse of what I find entertaining to read. Yet, it moved me and so engrossed me that I read slow, not wanting the story to end.

The journey for Sam and Tiel isn't paved with rose petals to get to a HEA. As you read through the series, you'll find yourself experience each family member through the POV of the other. You know that Sam will be complicated. He is. As a romance reader, you hope he gets a heroine who is spreads sunshine and rainbows to save our complex hero. No such luck. Ms. Canterbary gives us flawed and beautiful characters that aren't meant to save one another. This isn't the typical trope where one saves the other. Because the only way they can be saved is if they save themselves first. What they had set them to a journey to be better humans.

Okay did I frighten you away? Please don't. I know this sounds overly dramatic but Sam and Tiel's story pulled a lot of emotions from this reader. Although sad at times, not so heartbreaking that it ruined me. From the start of their relationship, this was the first book where I began to believe that if they didn't end up together it would be okay. It's seriously the journey of them coming to grips with the issues they face over the HEA that won their story for me.

Another day - same lecture: Read the series from book one in order. Sam and Tiel are complex. They deserve the readers time and attention to know them first through other's eyes before giving voice to their own story. I am bewitched by Kate Canterbary's story telling and be a forever fan. 5 out of 5 stars.

A Little Bit Like Love (South Haven Book 1)

4:00 pm 26 July 2017

I couldn't put this story aside. The story captivated me from prologue to final chapter. I was impatiently awaiting this story since I saw the cover release, and read the synopsis on Goodreads. And Ms Blaine did not disappoint this reader's expectations.

I'm a huge fan of the second chance storyline. But this was more than giving someone a second chance with you. This was a story of the ability to allow someone see the very deepest part of you and love you all the more. It was Lucas and Jackson's time for their crossroads to meet again. Although young love was torn from them and I was disappointed to the reasons why they were kept apart, this time was the right time for all the pieces to fall into place.

Ms Blaine storytelling wraps you up in each character doesn't allow the secondary elements not to interfere with the enjoyment of the reading. Even when the story has you dropping a frown, you are still hopeful. I am not a little but a lot in love with the start of this series. I am in complete anticipation of 'what happens next' in South Haven. 5 out of 5 stars.

The Space Between

4:00 pm 24 July 2017

This is my favorite Walsh Family series book. Kate Canterbary stuns this reader with the originality and engrossing storytelling that had me reading chapter after chapter with the inability to put it down until 'The End'.

Seriously? You thought I was kidding with my disclaimer on book one? We are at book two which is now my favorite.

Andy and Patrick...where do I start. I fall desperately in love with any female lead that is driven, not a doormat in a male dominated field. When writers can bring to the page the reality without losing it to dramatics - win for me. And then Patrick. He is just one of those infuriating heroes you want to either kick in the balls or kiss his lips off. Between the angst of 'will they both give in', you've got humor and sexiness that just steams off the page. The dynamic of the push/pull that Ms. Canterbary delivers is in perfect tempo. Not too much push you off to give up and not too much pull to leave you drained. In addition we begin to get more and more dynamic of the other siblings that is going to lead to a perfect family saga series.

Foot down: You will read book one and you will read in order. Huge, HUGE mistake if you jump on books. Although others will say it can be read as a standalone, you aren't going to walk away from the series. Kate Cantenbary is giving us more depth and insight so I stand firm on recommending as a whole read.

If you aren't familiar with Kate Cantenbary's writing, she has become one of my top five storytellers that I connect with. I insist on book one, but if you ignore me, you'll fall in love with her writing and just go back anyhow. So just trust me. If you've read book one, book two now builds on that Walsh Family world with more emotions for an engrossing and entertaining read. 5 out of 5 stars.

Underneath It All (The Walsh Series Book 1)

4:00 pm 21 July 2017

This is my favorite Walsh Family series book. Kate Canterbary stuns this reader with the originality and engrossing storytelling that had me reading chapter after chapter with the inability to put it down until 'The End'.

I will apologize in advance for the redundancy of the reviews of the series. That paragraph above will be repeated with each book. Although this review is supposed to be centered around this particular story, I'd be remiss if I don't explain what it is that I love about Ms Canterbary's writing. In whatever genre you prefer, there will be repeating of storylines/tropes. But when you find an original voice that gifts you with engaging characters - you just fall in love with reading again. For the entire Walsh family series, Kate Canterbary built upon a foundation as a whole while keeping each siblings story focused. As a reader, I felt emotionally involved with the each unique story told.

Matthew and Lauren are two of the most unlikely pair. So unlike in their drive to accomplish their goals. One is methodical and what I call a 'glue' person. Lauren is driven and so goal focused that nothing will impede her way - including herself. In a vain of honesty, if Lauren was my best friend, I would have knocked her upside the head a number of times. But what made the story work was Matthew wasn't giving up on Lauren no matter how hard she pushed. They come out of the battlefield of HEA a bit bloody and bruised but you know in the end they so deserved their love story.

Here goes the lecture: You will read the series in order. And I also recommend you read one right after another. Kate Canterbary is just starting the foundation for book one. You want to be a part of the construction and relish in the final reveal. This series is amongst my personal favorites and one I will read over and over again. 5 out of 5 stars

Only His

4:00 pm 19 July 2017

What happens when the man of your dreams is the man of everyone's from the silver screen? You've realized that you've captured the attention of the most eligible bachelor. Now do you want to keep him? Poor Emma is now tasked with the decision from a man who doesn't take no for an answer.

What can I say that I loved about this novella: Alpha Male abounds, Sassy and Sweet heroine, a little bit of thrilling excitement and a whole lot of very HOT sexy times. Yes, I mean HOT sexy times. The writing style of Aurora Rose Reynolds and Natasha Madison flow seamlessly so the quick paced story keeps you turning the pages. This novella is perfect for that airplane ride off to sun and sand to inspire your own fun times.

Best of all, it does what I want from a novella: I get a complete story without feeling hanging or gipped in the storyline. 4.5 out of 5 stars.

This free ARC was provided by the author/ publisher in exchange for an unbiased opinion.