A Kiss for a Kiss {a review}

Have you ever read a book, and thought "I'd love it if the author wrote about these two characters?" Well that was the case for me, and a lot of other fans of the All In series by Helena Hunting. She heard our request, and A Kiss for a Kiss was born. Jake and Hanna were getting their story told!

If you've read A Secret for a Secret, then you know who Jake and Hanna are. If you haven't read it, well I suggest you do. If anything it will give you a bit of backstory. Jake is the GM for the Seattle hockey team, and he is Queenie's dad. Queenie is getting married to Kingston. Kingston is the son of Hanna, but he wasn't raised by her. Hanna had given up her parental rights when Kingston was born, and they were actually raised as siblings. Unusual I know, but it is what it is. Anyways, as we lead up to the wedding, Hanna and Jake are spending a lot of time together. They are in constant communication, and a friendship is forming. You see where this is headed I'm sure. Eventually that friendship turns into more. And not too long later, Hanna finds herself pregnant. At 46.

I LOVED A KISS FOR A KISS! I don't think I can scream it loud enough. I love the immediate attraction between Jake and Hanna. I love the age of our characters. I love getting to see all the characters from previous books (both All In and Pucked). I love that our characters went to The Knight Cap! I love the relationship that Hanna has with Kingston. Just all of it. I loved it. Their relationship. The pregnancy. Explaining  the relationship, and revealing the pregnancy, to Kingston and Queenie.  The fact that others could see the relationship happening just based on their initial meeting. It was just all so good. Oh and that blow up Hanna had with her Mom? THE BEST! (as in long overdue)

If you've read the All In series, I highly suggest you continue with A Kiss for a Kiss. If you haven't read the series? I highly suggest that you do.  I gave A Kiss for a Kiss 4.5 stars, and am so freaking happy this book happened. If this was the end of the series, it was a fantastic conclusion.

Thank you for reading my thoughts,
Laura

Jiving with a Royal {a review}

 

Today is the day that Jiving with a Royal is available! This is the second book in the Unexpected Royals series by Tomi Tabb.

At the end of Dancing with a Royal, I had hoped for a story featuring Eddie and Amanda. It just seemed as though these two would be wonderful together. Jiving with a Royal is telling their story, and my expectations are high. Especially since I adored Dancing with a Royal.

Jiving with a Royal starts in California. It is when David is coming to repair his relationship with Clara, and Eddie tags along. Amanda is headed out one morning, and runs smack dab into Eddie. At first she can't figure out where she has seen this man before, that is until a few minutes later when it hits her. He's Prince Edward. The man she's had a crush on for years. And he's here. At her home. A bit of forced proximity helps to build their friendship, and as that friendship builds feelings change. They both want this friendship to evolve to more, but neither are saying it. Amanda is doing everything she can to work flights that are headed to the UK. That way she can have a little extra time with Eddie. Eddie meanwhile is entering the British Army, and isn't going to really be available for about four weeks. Right about the time he has 3 days of leave coming up, Amanda arrives in London. Upon arrival though, she's involved in a car accident. This event changes everything for her.

There is so much that I enjoyed about Jiving with a Royal.  I loved that Eddie and Amanda were getting their story told. I loved seeing their relationship blossom. The scene at Disney was fabulous. Loved how Amanda took care of the PPO crew. Love that Amanda is a fan of Lucille Ball. Getting to witness Amanda and Clara reconnect was wonderful, but I do wish there had been more scenes with the two of them. Eddie starting in the military was interesting, and just what he needed to mature a bit. Oh, and that final scene made me oh so happy for the couple.

There were some things missing for me in the story though. Maybe it was the fact that our couple was apart more than they were together. Maybe it was the point of conflict, what it was about, and how quickly it was resolved. For me that was just so minor. While I enjoyed the story, it was wasn't the romance I was expecting. I wanted more between the couple. I wanted a bit more conflict. There was a bit too much of the characters being in their heads. To me that would have been the perfect opportunity to have conversations with their friends. Or to discuss things through letters. In the end, even though I enjoyed it, their story left me wanting a bit more.

I loved the characters and the setting. I love royal romances. I am definitely going to continue with the series, and am really curious about the next book. Tomi mentioned who it was going to be about, and I don't recall that character appearing before. So I'm curious to see how he ties in with Eddie and David. Also, what's up with Queen Agnus? I need the history on her. Ooh maybe a prequel will happen where we could have King Reginald's love story! 

Rating wise,  I chose to give Jiving with a Royal 3.5 stars.

Thank you for reading my thoughts,
Laura

Bite the Bullet {a review}

Bite the Bullet is the third book in the Birch Police Department series by April Canavan, and it releases TODAY!

If you've been with me for a while, then you know that both Balls to the Wall and Boots on the Ground made my monthly top 5 lists. I am a bit obsessed with the series, and love the romantic suspense element that they offer. I get sucked right in, and I cannot put the books down. So I am expecting Bite the Bullet to be the same way.

In Bite the Bullet we are meeting up with Emma Hayes and Dominic Ortiz. Emma, you may recall, is the sister of Linc and Danny. Linc and Danny served overseas with Dominic. Linc and Dominic now serve together at Birch PD. One night Bee comes over to Emma's house, as her parents asked if Emma could watch her. Emma loves Bee, so it wasn't an issue. Plus Emma knows a bit of what goes on across the street. She's reported it a few times. That night though, everything changes. It is also this night that Emma finds out Dom is back in town. Emma is a new recruit to the police department and is beginning her training. Dom has been tapped to be her training officer. But there's a problem. They're attracted to each other, and the other night they kissed. Dom agrees to continue on, and tells the Chief the kiss meant nothing. And that is where it all starts.

I am obsessed with the Birch Police Department series. I cannot get enough. I absolutely loved Emma and Dom's story. Loved the relationship that Emma has with Dom's parents and siblings. Love the friendship that this group has. Love the ritual the guys have before someone deploys. Love how they have each others backs. The love story was fabulous. It has a bit of an age gap, as well as the brother's friend trope, along with a little military romance. It's just wonderful. Now I honestly thought the big moment of the book was when Dom deployed and Emma went to training. HAHAHAHAHA NO. That wasn't it. I mean that was the little moment of conflict. The suspenseful moment was still to come. And when it did, I can't lie, my mind immediately went to another person. Even though clues were given early on, my mind still didn't go there. But when I realized what was happening, my jaw dropped, and I gasped.

This book. OH THIS BOOK. Is it going to make my May top 5? Well I don't quite know yet, but there's a good chance.

If you're a fan of romantic suspense, then go read the Birch Police Department series. There's two more books yet to come, and I am eagerly anticipating both of them. 

Thank you for reading my thoughts,
Laura

Unsteady {cover reveal}

 

 Release Date: June 17

Traveling nurse Rhys Wild knows the consequences of choices.

 

After she lost the most important people in her life, she has vowed to herself to never make the decision to fall in love.

 

The only way to cope is to keep moving, to stay busy. To stop means to think. To feel. And feeling is a luxury she cannot afford.

 

Unless it’s Random Day.

 

The stranger on the plane ride home is the perfect distraction from her anguished thoughts about returning to the one place that will make her face everything she’s left behind.  

 

It was supposed to be a random bit of fun.

 

She wasn’t supposed to see him again.

 

But sometimes life makes the choice for us. And this time, Rhys must steady herself, if she is to live the life she thought was lost forever.

Pre-Order Your Copy Here!

Add to your Goodreads TBR List!

Meet Ashley Christin

Ashley Christin is a wife, nurse, and crazy dog mom. Like any other Texan, she enjoys long summer days, camping, and spending time with friends and family. 

If you're in the mood to laugh out loud and drink a few White Claws while jamming out to 90s alternative - we should be friends! 

Connect with Ashley Christin

Website | BookBub | Facebook | Instagram | Goodreads | Amazon Author Page   

Hosted By:

A French Connection {a review}

Happy Friday my fellow book lovers!

Are you a fan of insta-love? How about hockey romance?  If so, do I have a book for you!

Last night I finished reading Aven Ellis's latest release, A French Connection. This is the fourth book in the Rinkside in the Rockies series, and it has been highly anticipated. I mean Aven has been teasing this story for quite some time, and if you're in her Facebook group (or on her message board) then you know all of this. You'll probably also know about the hashtag #HEA4Pierre. If you're not in the group or on the message board, GO JOIN! 

Based on the hashtag, A French Connection is obviously about Pierre Gaudet. We've met Pierre in previous books with in the series, and he also made an appearance in the Chicago on Ice series. In A French Connection, Pierre finds love. He meets Lila at a Halloween party that is hosted by Gavin Tremblay, and many of his teammates are at the event. Lila is also at the party but it's to help Whitney repair her relationship with Gavin. You can read about their relationship in Outscored. Anyways as it is a Halloween party, there are costumes involved, and everyone is wearing a mask. When Lila and Pierre meet, they know nothing about each other, and after talking for a short period of time, Lila agrees to meet Pierre for dinner that night. From dinner to their next date, to talking on video chats, to texting, this relationship moves quickly. But is it moving too quickly? Are they falling too fast?

This will surprise no one, but I LOVED this book! It's an Aven book, so it's practically automatic that I'm going to love it, but still I LOVED IT. Pierre and Lila are so wonderful together. I don't care that it was insta-love, and this relationship was on the fast track. Pierre and Lila got their HEA. We got to witness an amazing date that took place at sunrise. We saw each of them being passionate about their interests. We heard them telling their stories about past hurts, and how that impacts their relationship. We also saw the point of conflict, and how that was resolved. Oh, and we got to catch up with previous characters from two series. All in all, I loved the book. Would I have changed anything? Eh, not really. Like the only thing I wanted to "see" was Pierre's reaction to the macarons that JoJo made. Oh, and I wanted to know what the Christmas gifts were. That's just me being nosy though. And now I want to go snoop through Aven's Pinterest boards to see if she pinned either of the art pieces that Lila created. There has to be pins that it was based off of.  Oh, and if you're a fan of The Princess Bride, there are references in this book. 

I highly recommend you go read A French Connection by Aven Ellis. While it is technically a standalone within the series, but I suggest that you start at the beginning with Hold the Lift.

Thank you for reading my thoughts,

Laura

He’s gorgeous. He’s French. And his lips are definitely kissable…

At the most, men last two dates with the vibrant and fun-loving Lila Porter. Thank you and goodbye are her favorite words after a second date.

Lila has no desire to be bored. Or to date a man who doesn’t meet her criteria for romance. After all, she’s young, owns her own color consultation company, and is living her best life in Colorado. It would have to be someone exceptional to make her want a third date, let alone open her heart.

But when a sexy masked stranger with a French accent crosses her path at a Halloween party, Lila finds herself wanting to say bonjour instead of au revoir … 

Falling in love is a journey, and Lila finds herself willing to follow the path to be with sweet and sexy hockey player Pierre Gaudet. However, scars of the past run deep and fears of the future create shades of gray in Lila’s palette. Will love bloom in full color or will this romance end in complete heartbreak?

If you love romance, sexy and swoony heroes, fun-loving heroines, and happily ever afters, pick up A French Connection today.

Add to Goodreads: A French Connection

Purchase on Amazon: A French Connection

Read for FREE with Kindle Unlimited!

Meet Aven

USA Today bestselling author Aven Ellis began her publishing career in 2013 with her debut release, Connectivity. She currently writes romantic comedies featuring royals, billionaires, aristocrats, and athletes.

Her books are designed to make readers laugh out loud and fall in love. Happily-ever-after endings and good-boy heroes are guaranteed.

Aven lives in the Dallas area with her family. Aven loves shopping and fashion and can spend hours playing with fragrances in any department store. She can be found chatting it up on social media, eating speciality M&Ms, and crushing on the latest outfit the Duchess of Cambridge is wearing.

Connect with Aven

Website | Facebook | Facebook Group | Instagram | Message Board | Pinterest | BookBub | Goodreads | Amazon | Newsletter

Wild Love {a review}

You may recall that earlier this month I read the Fillmore Siblings series by Melissa Schroeder. At the end of my Love to Hate You review, I mentioned how I was looking forward to Wild Love because I needed Quinn's story! Well here we are my friends.

Today is the day that Wild Love is available, and if you've been waiting for Quinn's story, go grab this book! Wild Love is also the first book in the new Juniper Springs series!

Late last night I finished reading my advanced copy of the book, and while I enjoyed the heck out of it, I also had higher hopes. Does that make sense?

Let's recap a bit of the book first before we delve into my thoughts.

Wild Love fills us in on what happened when the Hawthornes visited Denver, and the "outcomes" of that trip. You may recall that whole scene from the Hate to Love You book. Quinn was introduced to a woman named Everly, and Everly had some rules for their one night stand. First, no last names can be exchanged. Two, no talking about what you do for a living, or really where you live. Basically no personal information should be shared. So they had their fling, and that was supposed to be the end. But Everly had gotten under Quinn's skin. Everly also inspired Quinn's creativity, and he began working on his next book. So much so that he created a new character, and look at that, that character looks exactly like Everly. She also has her name. While all this is going on, Quinn and Everly meet up a couple more times. Essentially continuing what was a one night stand. After their last get together though, Everly ghosts Quinn. That is until the day he shows up at the bookstore she owns. It is there that the ball really gets rolling.

Everly and Quinn's story was good. There was so much that I enjoyed. From the initial meeting in Denver, to the hookup in California, to the random run in at the bookstore in Juniper. Everly is an amazing character on her own, and quite honestly I would have read any book that featured her. Same goes for Quinn. He seems like a strong character who has been through some stuff, and is trying to get his creativity back. Again, I would have read any book that featured his story. You combine these two, and all their geeky tendencies, and it has the potential to be wonderful. While there was so much that I loved about the book, there were also a few things that I wasn't as fond of.  I guess the biggest is that it just felt a bit rushed in my mind. We have this reconnection, the surprise is revealed, there's a little drama surrounding it, and then it's smooth sailing. I guess in my mind I wanted more conflict, and for that to be a bit more drawn out. I was also expecting more shenanigans from the LOLs and the Juniper Express App. I was waiting to see how that impacted their relationship, and the journey back to each other. 

Even with those little things, I loved the book. Everly and Quinn's journey to their HEA was so good. I am looking forward to the next in the series. I'm hoping that Becca eventually gets her HEA, and it's looking like it will be with one of Everly's brothers. 

If you choose to read Wild Love, and I suggest you do, I do think you'll want to read the Fillmore Siblings duet first. I say that because the back story would be helpful. Plus it might help you understand Carter a bit more. Oh Carter.

Thank you for reading my thoughts,

Laura

Damien {a review}

I jumped into a new series by reading the third book first. If you know me, you know this isn't my norm. I always start at the beginning. But you better believe I will be going back to read the first two books in the Perfectly Imperfect series. Especially since I know those are about Drew and Vince. I wonder if Dani has a story. Hmmm. I'll have to go look at Amanda Shelley's backlist titles.

Anyways, late last night I finished reading Damien by Amanda Shelley. It is a new adult, single parent romance, with some insta-love action happening. 

Damien has recently relocated to town, and is working on a construction project at the college. He had discovered a little diner on one of his first days in town, and has been eating breakfast there almost daily. It helps that his usual server is absolutely gorgeous. Vanessa is a nursing student at the college, and she is also a single mom who works her butt off to make all of it happen. Her daughter, Julia, is 5 years old and the bright spot in her world. Vanessa hasn't dated in years, and so when Damien eventually works up the courage to ask her out, she is shocked, and then turns him down. Many days later Damien asks again. Vanessa had already talked to her friends about this, and agrees to a date. And that is how it all starts. 

I absolutely loved this book. The relationship between Damien and Vanessa is so good. I love how Vanessa isn't afraid to tell Damien the hard things (single parent, loss of parents, etc). Then there's Damien, who isn't afraid to talk about the hard stuff, and he realizes that Vanessa being a parent comes first. He is willing to do anything in his power to make the relationship work. The chemistry between the two is spectacular. The connection between Vanessa and Julia is top notch. The way Julia and Damien interact is impressive. A bond has definitely been formed. I will say I thought the point of conflict would have been greater or drawn out. But I wasn't disappointed in it. I liked how Damien and Vanessa worked through it, and it allowed Damien to share a bit about his past and what he had been through.

Loved the book. I cannot wait to read more of the series, and also check out other works by the author.

Thank you for reading my thoughts,

When I walk into the diner, all I’m looking for is a decent meal. As a civil engineer for the largest project on campus, I just want to eat in peace. I’m happy to find this hidden gem since students are scarce. Don’t get me wrong, co-eds on campus are beautiful, but I was over that scene when I graduated three years ago. I need to finish this job and move onto the next one by the end of the year.

Then Vanessa walks up with a simple smile and takes my breath away. The next thing I know, I’m making every excuse imaginable to dine with this intriguing woman. She’s not only smart and sexy; she’s completely focused on reaching the goals she has set for herself.

The more I get to know her, the more I know she’s the one. I just have to find a way to make her deviate from her perfectly laid plans and take a chance on me.

Grab Your Copy Here!

Meet Amanda Shelley

Amanda Shelley loves falling into a book to experience new worlds. As an avid reader and writer, sharing worlds of her own creations is a passion that inspired her to become an author. 

She writes contemporary romance with characters who are strong and sexy with a touch of sass. 

When not writing, Amanda enjoys time with her family, playing chauffeur, chef and being an enthusiastic fan for her children. Keeping up with them keeps her alert and grounded in reality. She enjoys long car rides, chai lattes, and popping her SUV into four-wheel drive for adventures anywhere. 

Amanda loves hearing from readers. Be sure to sign up for her newsletter and follow her on social media. Join her reader group: Amanda's Army of Readers to stay up to date on her latest information!

Connect with Amanda Shelley:

Website | Newsletter | Facebook | Instagram | Twitter | Goodreads | BookBub

Hosted By: 

Thank you to Amanda Shelley and Wildfire Marketing Solutions for providing me with an advanced copy of Damien, the third book in the Perfectly Imperfect series.

Crazy About A Cowboy {a review}

Crazy About a Cowboy is the third book in the Tying the Knot in Texas series by Dylann Crush, and it just released today!

I had the privilege to read an early copy of the book, and it is so good. I absolutely adored this book. I would absolutely love it if Dylann Crush wrote an entire spin-off series based on the Taylor family. I'd read it in a heartbeat, and I'd like to see all the Taylor children get their HEAs.

In Crazy About A Cowboy, we meet Delilah Stone. She is the reigning Miss Lovin' Texas, and she is visiting small towns that are competing to win the title of Most Romantic Small Town. It's been narrowed down to three, and as Delilah is about to head to Swynton she's told they've been disqualified, and she now has to head to the town of Ido. Stella, Delilah's mom and manager, is not happy about this, and does not want her daughter going to that town! Why? Well as we find out, it's Stella's old stomping grounds. She has history there. Anyway, Delilah heads to Ido, and is introduced to Jasper Taylor. Mayor Cherish has tapped him to be the hospitality host, and it is his job to take Delilah around and show her all the reasons why Ido should win the title. Now Jasper isn't too fond of this. He just wants to save his family's pecan farm, and convince his dad to renovate the old barn to use as a wedding venue. After all that would bring additional income to the farm. Delilah and Jasper's introduction doesn't quite go as planned, and Delilah gets soaked by a water hose. There is so much that happens from that point on, but it all is part of the larger story, so I'll stop my recap at the meet-cute.

This book was so fun to read. It was sweet. It had romantic moments. It had a bit of steam. It had a little suspense. I loved the small town setting. Loved the forced proximity trope that was playing out. Loved how Jasper, and the town, showed Delilah all of these amazing things. Loved how the town came together when there was work to be done.And I really loved how things played out at the ceremony to announce the winner. I wasn't as fond of the side story with Colin Taylor, but I understand why it was there. Also, Stella was a bit much and in my mind Delilah really needed to tell her to back off. All in all though, I loved the book. I gave it 4 stars on Goodreads, and I really want to go back and read the first two books in the series. 

If small towns, cowboys, pageant queens, forced proximity, family drama, and contests are things you're interested in, then you'll definitely want to grab Crazy About A Cowboy. I highly recommend the book.

Thank you for reading my thoughts,

Match Made in Paradise {a review}

image source: author's facebook page

Match Made in Paradise is the brand new book by Barbara Dunlop! Match Made in Paradise is also kicking off a brand new series called Paradise, Alaska. After reading the book, I am positive this series will be quite interesting.

When I initially read the description for the book, my mind immediately went to The Simple Wild by KA Tucker. It was giving me similar vibes. I mean the hero works as a bush pilot, the heroine is a fish out of water, the heroine has to leave luggage behind at the airport, it's a bit of hate to love, it's small town romance, and of course there is a HEA. But really that's where the similarities end.

After the death of her husband, Mia is heading to Paradise to stay with her cousin Raven. Mia is heading there at the request of her lawyer, as back home she's in a legal battle with her step-children regarding the fashion empire, and she's receiving death threats from fanatics who think she is to blame for her husband's death. Upon arriving in Alaska, Mia has to hop aboard a smaller plane to get to her final destination. Silas happens to be the pilot who is handling this trip, and he has to break the news to her that she cannot take all her luggage. The plane is already full, and there just isn't space (physical or due to weight restrictions). When Silas drives Mia to Raven's home, Mia doesn't know what to think. This strange man has just taken her to this remote home that is in desperate need of repairs, and Mia's first thought is to run for her life. That right there is just the start of it all. There is so much that happens in this book, and I cannot even begin to recap it all.

I went into Match Made in Paradise with high hopes. The teaser had my full attention, and I could not wait to pick up the book. If I'm being completely honest, this book had potential to be fantastic. Instead, it was just middle of the road. I found myself skimming through the filler, and only truly paid attention when it was about the relationship, the side stories, or the big scene at the air strip. I mean I get it, a world needs to be built, we need the background, especially since this is the start of a new series. But there was some that could have been cut. Maybe that's just me though as I don't care about fashion, yet at the same time I can understand why it was put in as Mia is about to be the head of a fashion empire. Also, the description says that this is a rom-com. I didn't get that from the book. For me it was really more of a standard contemporary.

Now I say all that about the book, but there were parts that I liked. I loved how the relationship between Silas and Mia developed. I enjoyed how Mia took charge at the radio during the air strip scene. I was curious about the dating app Mia was going to implement (with help of course). And I was curious about what was going on with the side characters. It is all of this that will have me continuing with the series. After all there are a few who I want to see get their HEAs, and how their partners will fit into Paradise, Alaska.

Let's talk about my star rating. As you know on every site, you only have the option to leave full ratings, there are no half stars. So on Goodreads, I marked this as 3 stars, but then wrote in my review that it was a 3.5 star. I stand by that. I don't feel like it was a 4 star, and I really think it deserves higher than a 3 star. So 3.5 it is.  

Thank you for reading my thoughts,

The Spy in 3B {a review}

Hi Friends,

I have a fun book recommendation for you today! 

The Spy in 3B is the brand new book by Nana Malone, and it is the start of the Covert Affairs duet.

This is a "spy vs spy" book mixed with romance, a little slow burn, a little neighbors to lovers, and eventually we have a whole lot of steam.  And since it is a duet, the book does end in a cliffhanger.

So let's recap the book a bit. We have Lyra who is an agent for The Firm, and one of the rules the organization has is that the agents must be in relationships. Now of course they cannot tell their partner what they really do for work, so to the average person, Lyra works for a PR company. She's signed up on a dating app, and she's been matched with a man she's not so certain of. But he also happens to live across the hall. Meanwhile Marcus is an agent for Exodus, but most people think he is a video game developer, and Exodus has a similar rule regarding agents being in relationships. Which makes sense as we learn these two organizations used to be one. Anyways these two start dating, but with each date a situation arises where the date has to come to an abrupt end. Flash forward a little bit, and while Lyra and Marcus are on "date" they are also both working. They both hear from their respective teams that the other organization is onsite and to be aware of the situation. Lyra and Marcus have no clue that they work for opposing companies. That is until a later mission.

I freaking LOVED The Spy in 3B. I did. I kept wondering when Lyra and Marcus would figure out the other's true job, and how that would all play out. Since there was some slow burn going on, I also was wondering when the steam would kick in. But once it did, it didn't really stop. Marcus and Lyra are both fantastic characters. I am intrigued by them, and I'd love to know more about their history with the companies. But I highly doubt I'll get a prequel, so I'll just have to make up the backstory. I am finding myself curious about Rhodes, Addie, Roz, and Tyler too. So I wonder if any of them will ever get their stories told. Or maybe I should peruse Nana Malone's backlist to see if there is something about these fabulous side characters.

I cannot wait to see what happens in The Assassin in 5F. I have a feeling it is going to be epic. I did a quick search, and it looks like The Assassin in 5F is coming in July. So my wait won't be too long.

I highly recommend The Spy in 3B! It's so good. Please go purchase it from Kobo. I really think you'll enjoy it. (and yes, this is a Kobo original, so that is the only place you'll find it.) 

Thank you for reading my thoughts,

Anything For This Love {a review}

 

Today is the day that Anything For This Love is available! This is the third book in the Wild Hearts series by Ashley Cade. It is also the third book in Abby and Jacob's story.

If you've been following along, then you'll know that I recently read the first two books in the Wild Hearts series. I could not put them down. There was something about Abby and Jacob's story that kept pulling me in, and I was just enjoying being a part of their world. After finishing those books, I was so thankful to have an advanced copy of Anything for this Love. That way I could stay in that setting, stay with these characters that I've come to love, and find out how things wrap up for Abby and Jacob.

If you've read Something That Could Last and Everything We Left Unsaid, then you'll know that both of those books ended in a cliffhanger. No, that's not the right word, as a cliffhanger makes it sound dramatic. We were left at a break in the story. And now in Anything For This Love, we are picking up right where we left off.  So I need to be careful with my description of the story, as well as my review, so that I do not say more than I should.

In Anything For This Love, we find Abby and Jacob separated because of the actions of Jacob's mother. Her finally coming clean about what she had done years prior made Abby really uneasy, and as we know, Abby ran. And now she's been avoiding Jacob. There are a few surprises in the book that affect Abby, and it's a lot. We also witness Jacob stepping in to save the day once again. And I'm here for him being a hero. Anything For This Love is all about these two finding their way back together once again. It's also about forgiveness, healing, and their future.

This book gave me just what I wanted for Abby and Jacob's story. It gave me the HEA I was hoping would happen, and quite frankly it was time for them to have it. These two had been through so much in this trilogy, and I think they're stronger for it. There is so much I loved about Anything For This Love. Obviously the continuation of the story is a huge part butt I also loved that we were able to witness these two reconnect, we got to reconnect with Luke, and we find out what is happening with Ethan and Tiff, and we get to see Jacob's Mom getting the help she needs to process the grief of losing Peyton all those years ago. Then there is the setting. I love the small town that Abby lives in. Yes we see bits and pieces of Arlington, where Jacob lives, but my heart is back in that small town with Abby's family. This entire series has been fantastic, and I cannot wait to see how Ashley Cade continues it with Ethan's story. You already know I'll be reading it whenever it is announced.

Curious about my star rating for Anything For This Love? I gave it 4 stars.

If you like the small town, opposites attract, insta-love, or the accidental pregnancy trope, then go grab the Wild Hearts series. Just remember, you need to start with Something That Could Last!

Thank you for reading my thoughts,

Everything We Left Unsaid {a review}

You may recall that yesterday I posted my review of Something That Could Last. Well today I am talking about Everything We Left Unsaid. That's right folks, we are staying with the Wild Hearts series by Ashley Cade. I mean why not, Anything For This Love releases on May 24, so it's perfect timing.

Now I really need to watch what I say in my recap of the book, as well as my review. You see if you read Something That Could Last, you know that we did not get our HEA in that book. Everything We Left Unsaid picks up two years in the future. But don't you worry, we get little snippets of the past here and there so we know what has happened with Abby and Jacob. (as well as a little blurb about Tiff and Luke)

A lot can change in two years, and it certainly has for Abby. She's graduated from college, and is working the job she has been dreaming of. No longer does she need to work two jobs to pay her bills. It's wonderful for the most part. Yet a part of her is missing Jacob. As for Jacob, he went on that internship, and is now working full time. He also has a place of his own, but will be moving back with his parents for a short period of time. As I said, it's been two years, and Jacob cannot get his mind off of Abby. He loves her. She is his first true love, and he knows he needs to figure out what went wrong. So he takes off to Abby's home town to track her down. They need to talk. They need to see each other, and hopefully reconnect. When Jacob arrives in town, he tracks Abby down at Rosie's, and it is there that his life changes. 

I think that I liked Everything We Left Unsaid more than I liked Something That Could Last. I say that because the first book was the beginning of the relationship. It was the getting to know you stage, the falling in love (or lust) stage, and figuring out if a future could work. In this book though, things have changed.  There is still that attraction between Jacob and Abby. There is still that spark. That love. That connection. But there's also distrust, and heartache, and pain. These two need to fight to work things out, and to find out who was trying to sabotage their relationship. After all someone wrote that letter from Jacob, and it certainly wasn't him. Also, someone had his phone, and replied to those texts, but it wasn't him. So who was it? What was the motive? Then there's the scene with Grandma. Oh my heart. OH MY HEART. You can't do that to me. I can't take things like that. Yet there was Jacob, doing what he could do help. To protect those he loves. To try to minimize the pain and heartache for those people.

This book, was just so good. It is reconciliation. It is forgiveness. It is trust. It is building back stronger. And I loved it. I am looking forward to reading Anything For This Love, as I need to know how their story wraps up. What happens now? After everything that Abby and Jacob had been through in this book, what does their future hold?

I hope you'll consider reading the Wild Hearts series, because it is a good one.

Thank you for reading my thoughts,

Something That Could Last {a review}

 

Something That Could Last is the first book in Ashley Cade's Wild Hearts series. 

In this book we meet Abby, Tiff, Jacob, and Luke. Abby and Tiff are best friends, they live in a small town, and are trying to figure out their lives. Abby (our main heroine) is working two jobs, attending school, helping out her Grandma, and it's just a lot. Enter Jacob and Luke. These two are escaping reality, and their parents control, to blow off a bit of steam, and enjoy a two week vacation. They never planned on falling for a couple of locals. All it took for Jacob was taking one look at Abby, and he was done for. Luke was immediately taken with Tiff as well when they met later in the day. When the girls aren't working, they are spending time with the guys.

Something That Could Last is really all about Abby and Jacob's relationship. It's instalove, with a little opposites attract action happening. This book is also quite steamy. Oh, and the way it ends, you'll want to have the second book on hand. That's all I'm saying.

I really enjoyed Something That Could Last. It was an easy read without too much drama. I found myself really liking Abby and Tiff. Jacob and Luke seem like nice guys as well, but I will say that Luke is quite full of himself and comes across as a bit too much. Knowing that Abby has to work two jobs in order to pay for her schooling makes her hit a little closer to home. She's relatable in that sense, as most people have to work through college or take out loans. Abby's also been through some rough times, but she has her Grandma and her brother (Ethan) by her side to work through all the emotions/heartache that were caused.

When I started reading the book, I wasn't expecting it to be a two week relationship for our couples, nor was I expecting it to end the way it did. I fully expected more time to pass for the couple, and for them to get their HEA. I figured book two would then focus on Tiff and Luke. But that's not the case. It is looking like the entire Wild Hearts series is all about Abby and Jacob. (which I'm perfectly okay with)

If Ashley Cade is a new-to-you author (she was for me!), then please give the Wild Hearts series a read. The third book, Anything for this Love, releases on May 24.

Thank you for reading my thoughts,

Dirt Queen {a review}

Happy Book Release Day to Nora Blake! 

Dirt Queen is Nora Blake's debut novel, and she has kicked off with an amazing story. 

Dirt Queen is based on a true story, and it is a friends to lovers story. 

Aaron and Sarah were childhood friends, and when they became teenagers they both realized they were attracted to the other. But those words were never spoken. About that same time, Sarah moved away. They tried to keep in touch, but life happens, and they became more like acquaintances than friends. As time went on, Aaron and Melany were married, and had two little boys. That marriage ended. Shortly before the divorce was finalized, Sarah returned to town. The sparks were immediate. The attraction was still there, and a relationship started. That is where the story begins, and my little recap ends.

This book was absolutely amazing. I laughed. I awww'd. I laughed some more. I cringed. I gasped. I ugly cried. My emotions were all over the place, and even though I was a wreck, I loved it. Even how it ended. Aaron and Sarah's relationship was fast, but when you have that history with the other person it just works. It's as though they were meant to be. Plus they had the mutual love of racing and working on the race cars. Watching their new relationship blossom was spectacular. Watching Aaron call out Sarah when she was trying to hold back was so good. He wasn't letting a communication issue happen in their relationship. Even the relationship that Sarah had with Aaron's boys was special. Then there was Nick. What a fun person. Perfect for the comedic relief. 

There is so much I want to say about Dirt Queen, but I also don't want to spoil this amazing story. Just know that you will laugh, you will fall for the characters, you'll be frustrated with the custody situation, you'll also be devastated, and you'll feel the love between Sarah and Aaron. I gave Dirt Queen 5 stars, and I am going to be talking about this book for quite some time. As of now, it is definitely on my top 5 for  May.

Should you choose to read the book, have the tissues handy.

Thank you for reading my thoughts,

Dirt Queen by Nora Blake is now live!

I love you. Always.

Sarah--We hadn't spoken in years, and more often than not, he was on my mind. When I moved back to town he reached out. I stalked him enough times on Facebook to know he had a wife and two kids. I didn't want to get my hopes up, but the pull I felt inside couldn't be ignored.

Aaron--She was back. I thought I'd never see her again, but there she was. Within my reach. She agreed to meet up at the dirt track when I sent her a message. What would she think of me being a dad? Did she even know?

The unspoken feelings she tried to leave in the past forced her to keep him at arm's length. He was in the middle of a divorce and had two boys they both needed to consider. He was all in but she was questioning everything.

But sometimes...you have to follow your heart and let yourself fall--no matter how things might end. It'd be worth it. Always.

This book is based on a true story.

Photographer: Courtney Hartness Photography

Download today!

http://mybook.to/dirtqueen

Goodreads: https://bit.ly/3vxIgz1

Meet Nora Blake

Nora Blake is a lover of nature and getting lost in her made-up worlds. When she isn't writing or spending time with her amazing family, she is horseback riding or reading. She has a passion for literature and her goal is to promote the importance of reading while engaging readers in her stories. Her debut novel, Dirt Queen, is set to release in May and is based on a true story.

Connect with Nora

Website | Amazon | Facebook | Facebook Group | Instagram | BookBub | Pinterest

Thank you to Nora Blake and Grey's Promo for providing me with an advanced copy of Dirt Queen.

Caught in Us {a review}

Yesterday I shared my review of Caught in the Chase by Kacey Shea. It is the first half of Alicia and Chase's duet, and you do need to read that prior to reading Caught in Us. After all we are picking up about 3 years later.

If you've read Caught in the Chase, then you know how it ended. You know we were left unfulfilled, and Alicia & Chase did not get their happily ever after. We know that Chase finally went to see Mav, they reconnected and forgiveness was given, and Chase also returned home. For Alicia we know that she ran to her dad's bedside after his medical crisis, returned to the community center to gather her belongings, and then went off to pursue her degree in London. We also know that Alicia wrote a letter to Chase before she left which she left at the house he had been staying.

So what happened next? Well they both went on with their lives. For the most part. Alicia went to London, and began her life there. But it was shortly after she arrived that she realized she was pregnant. Meanwhile Chase was assigned to a new fire station, and he started a teen program in his area. So that's awesome. Flash forward a bit and we are gearing up for Cam and Jill's wedding. Chase is the best man, and has many jobs to fulfill for Jill. Alicia has sent in her RSVP, and stated that she is attending the wedding. Alicia hasn't seen, nor spoken to, Jill or Callie since shortly after she left. She just cut all ties, and to say her friends are angry would be an understatement. And that is all I will say about the plot of the book. I'm cruel I know.

Caught in Us was unbelievably good. I could not put the book down, and I may have stayed up a bit too late while reading. Thank goodness for coffee, and three of my kids being at school. Other than what the teaser told me, I went into the book not knowing what would happen. I mean my fingers were crossed that there would be an HEA, but as I read, I wasn't so certain that was going to happen. Witnessing Alicia reconnect with Jill and Callie was wonderful. To have friends like that, who can forgive you, love you, and jump right back in with is so special. Those are the true friendships that so many of us long to have. Then there is the little piece of information that Alicia hasn't shared with many (Simon, Jill, Callie), and it needs to come out. This secret needs to be revealed. Chase and Alicia are also frequently surrounded by people drinking, and occasionally it finds them needing to find a meeting quickly, as it is just so overwhelming. But they work through it. I could not get enough of the book. I would have loved to have witnessed Chase reading what was in the box. To see his reaction, and how that all affected him.  I also really want to know if Chase ever said anything regarding the secret he revealed. I mean yes, it was briefly mentioned he told his dad, but waht about Cam? What happened with that? I'm not ready to say goodbye to Alicia and Chase, nor any of the other characters. They feel like friends, and I want to know what happens next in their lives.

This duet had me feeling so many emotions, and I loved every single minute of it. Please, go read Alicia and Chase's story. I think you'll like it a lot. If you do read it, send me a message on Facebook, or drop me an email, I'd love to chat about it with you.

Thank you for reading my thoughts,
 

Saving Us {a review}

Saving Us by Wendy Million was released on May 17, 2021. It is a new adult sports romance that takes place at Northern University. Sebastian and Johnny are both football players, and Annika and Natalie are roommates. In this book we follow these four characters, and while the focus is more so on Annika and Johnny's relationship, our main characters are actually Natalie and Sebastian. 

Right away before I even dive into a brief synopsis of the book, I want to say that there are content warnings for physical and sexual assault. If that is difficult for you to read about, then feel free to click out now. I won't go into specifics, but just know it is a side story in the book.

Oh how to even recap Saving Us. Natalie, Annika, Johnny, and Sebastian are all college students at Northern University. Sebastian has just transferred in for his junior year, and he is the running back on for the Ravens. Johnny is a senior, and is focused on making it to the NFL. Natalie and Annika are best friends, and roommates. Annika is a major football fan and dreams of being a coach. Annika is also extremely interested in Johnny. Natalie is not a football fan, and she is working toward becoming a lawyer. One night the Natalie and Annika head to a party at the frat house. Most of the football players are in that frat, so it just makes sense to go there. It is there where Annika and Johnny's story begins. It is also there that Natalie feels a bit sketchy about Johnny, and she also meets Sebastian for the first time. She has an immediate attraction to Sebastian, but once she learns he's a football player, she really doesn't want anything to do with him. It is at this party where Natalie and Sebastian's story begins as well. 

I want to continue on with a recap, but it is shortly after this where things pick up. So I need to cut it here.

If you all have read my weekly recaps, or if you follow me on Goodreads, then you know I am extremely stingy with my 5 star ratings. So me saying that Saving Us is a 5 star read, means a lot. This is not only a love story between the characters, but it's also the story about friendships, and teammates. You have friends who will stand by your side through the good times and the not so good times. You have teammates who you want to be by your side, you want their support, and you hope they'll stand by you through it all. 

When I started reading Saving Us I figured it would just be the typical sports romance that I adore. As the story went on though, I realized that wasn't the case. Not at all. There was nothing "typical" about this sports romance. Once the rumors were started about the quarterback, and the disagreement between friends grew, I knew I wasn't going to be able to put the book down. I was so fully invested in this storyline that I just had to know what was going to happen next. What was going to be that moment that switched things? What was going to happen in both of these relationships? Were Sebastian and Natalie ever going to start dating, or would they remain friends? What about those rumors? Was there truth behind them? If there was truth behind them, when was it going to come out?

Now don't worry, you get all those answers! You'll know what happens with Annika & Johnny, and Natalie & Sebastian. There is a HEA for one of the couples. That much I will tell you.

Oh how I loved this story, even though the assault portions were difficult to read. I highly recommend this book. Please go order it. If your library has it, check it out. Just promise me that you'll read it.

Thank you for reading my thoughts,

NEW RELEASE

Release Date: May 17

Hot, talented, and fresh to campus. Can Natalie trust the gorgeous new football player, or will his team loyalty win out? 

***** 

Natalie Chapman is drawn into a friendship and flirtation with Northern University's newest football transfer, Sebastian Swan, when her roommate and best friend, Annika, begins dating his teammate. Fresh off a breakup, Natalie isn't interested in hooking up with a player who has women chasing him all over campus. 

But Sebastian claims his best quality is perseverance, and he has no problem pursuing Natalie instead. As the two grow closer, details of Annika's troubled relationship with the star quarterback come to light.  

With the football team on the cusp of winning a National Championship, Natalie wonders if Sebastian's loyalty to his teammates supersedes all else. Can she trust him to do the right thing, or will he let her down when it matters most? 

Triggers: Sexual and physical abuse

One-Click here

Add To Your Goodreads TBR List!

Meet Wendy Million

Wendy Million is a Watty Award winner, and author of Saving Us, her newest novel. Her contemporary romances about strong women and troubled men have captivated her loyal readers. She is also the author of the romantic suspense series The Donaghey Brothers, and the contemporary romance When Stars Fall. When not writing, Wendy enjoys spending time in or around the water. She lives in Ontario, Canada with two beautiful daughters, two cute pooches, and one handsome husband (who is grateful she doesn’t need two of those). 

Connect with Wendy Million

Website | Facebook | Instagram | Twitter | TikTok

Hosted By:

Thank you to Wendy Million and Wildfire Marketing Solutions for providing me with an advanced copy of Saving Us.