Wanting You Always by Lizzie Morton {a review}

Her voice is a siren, but instead of warning me to stay away, it draws me in, just like it always has, since the first time we met.

Wanting You Always is the brand new release from author Lizzie Morton. This is the first book in the Always series, and it is a spin off from the Always trilogy. Wanting You Always focuses on Sam and Sophie. These two have been best friends since the moment they met. They have been by each other's side through the good and the bad. They are the support system they each need. It's always been friendship, never more, but things are changing.

My rating for Wanting You Always:

First things first, I have not read the Always Trilogy, so I am going into the Always series not knowing anything about the characters, the band, or the history. Having now read Wanting You Always, I do feel that it may have helped me understand bits and pieces of this book had I read the trilogy. I say that because at times I was a bit lost with certain references to past events. Not only that I feel that I would have better understood the friendships, and the these bonds that they clearly have. That being said not knowing all of this, and the slight confusion didn't affect my enjoyment of this story. If anything it would have enhanced it.

Speaking of the story...I truly did enjoy Sam and Sophie's story. That best friends to lovers storyline hooked me in, and had me wondering how the fall would happen. It also had me waiting for the moment when those feelings were discussed, and how it would affect the friendship. Slow burn and I don't always get along, but this one I didn't really have a problem with. At times I was hoping things would pick up a bit more, but once those lines were crossed all was good. The rockstar vibe was just okay. It felt secondary, but at the same time it gave Sam this friendship that he so needed. I quickly found myself immersed in this world, and wanting to know more about each of the side characters.

Lizzie threw me a curve ball in the form of Russ, and everything that was discovered with his story. My mom heart was immediately gone for that kid. Then as his storyline developed my heart sank. While I don't like what happened in that situation, it did inspire what happened next. 

I think it was Russ that really gave Sophie the courage to rediscover herself. It was because of him that so much happened. Yes Sam was by her side throughout, but this was different. This was Sophie taking a stand, and I loved that. She found her voice and her passion, and she was going to battle.

Also, I love Grams. She's the best. Grams was the comedic relief that was needed from time to time.

While the start of the book confused me a smidgen, by the end I was loving the characters, enjoying their storylines, and rooting for that happily ever after. Not only did Sam and Sophie get their happily ever after, but their new found family did also. 

Now that Sam and Sophie's story is over, I need Shaun's story to be next. I won't accept anyone else. (okay maybe Sooz's story. maybe) Shaun is Sam's big brother, and if I'm reading things correctly, there is a spark between him and Sophie's best friend. So please Lizzie, say they are next!!

Go check out this best friends to lovers romance. I could not put it down, and cannot wait to return to this setting in the future. (rumor has it book 2 is coming in 2023!)

Happy Reading,
Laura

Amazon | Goodreads | BookBub

Sam Riley has been one of my best friends for as long as I can remember, it’s the wanting him part that is new.

With my personal life falling apart and Sam’s self-doubts putting his music career on the line, we do what we’ve always done best … we lean on each other.

Desperately trying to hold everything together, Sam manages to brighten the darkest of days.

In the middle of the storm, he’s my rainbow.

My person.

My one.

My constant.

Until we find ourselves tiptoeing the line of something more.

Deciding between what’s right and fighting for what we want feels impossible when it comes down to one thing …

Is loving your best friend worth the risk of losing them?

**Wanting You Always is Book 1 in a series of interconnected standalones which act as spin-offs to The Always Trilogy. Each book is a complete story and contains a HEA.**

Thank you Lizzie for providing me with an advanced copy of Wanting You Always. Being a part of #imwithlizziesband has been a wonderful adventure.

Please note:

I participate in the Amazon Affiliates program.

Purchases made through links above allow me to earn a small commission.

Thank you!

Brutal Obsession by S Massery {a review}

There's a certain thrill that comes with a hunt. And that's exactly what this feels like: she's the prey and I'm the predator, forever trying to get her ensnared.

Brutal Obsession is the brand new dark bully romance from S Massery. Tropes for this book include: sports, anti-hero, enemies to lovers, blackmail, stalker, and so many more. As this is a dark bully romance there is a content warning for certain aspects that may be triggering. Sara mentions many of them at the beginning of the book, but if you want to know specifics send me a message.

Now I can't lie, I went into this book purely for the sports romance storyline. Bully romances are not my normal read, but every once in a while I find myself drawn to them. And certain authors have a way with this genre that keeps me on the edge of my seat wondering what is going to happen next. Brutal Obsession was no different. I mean heck in the prologue I was gasping, and my hand flew to my mouth. I was so freaking shocked at what had just happened. That portion of the story alone had me unable to put the book down. I may also have stayed up until 1:30am one night as I HAD TO KNOW WHAT HAPPENED NEXT. Yes, I paid for it that morning. No I didn't finish the book at that point.

My rating for Brutal Obsession:

Honestly, I loved every single part of this book. EVERY SINGLE PART! Were there times where certain scenes pushed me out of my comfort zone a bit? Well yeah, but not so much so that I had issues. So those scenes weren't over the top.

Is this book dark? Yep! Yep it is. But again, not in an over the top or unenjoyable sense. It is the perfect balance. Sara did a fabulous job with the storytelling, and keeping me pulled in.

Is Grey possessive? ABSO-FREAKING-LUTELY! This man knows what he wants, and he's going to get it. Plain and simple. Violet though is no delicate flower. She's feeling that pull, and is discovering so much about herself.

I loved the chase. I loved the protectiveness. I loved, and was a bit obsessed with, the suspense element of the story. That suspense storyline, oh my word. I wasn't expecting it to go that route, but looking back it all makes sense. (When you read the book you'll know what I'm talking about.)

Grey and Violet's story just might be my favorite of the month. There's competition with 2 other books, but they might just push their way to the top. And it would be a very Grey thing to do.

Now, Sara, can Willow be the female lead in the next book? PLEASE! I need that to happen. I just do. My curiosity is piqued with her.

Romance reader friends, you need to check this book out. From the suspense to the steam to just everything within the story, I was captivated. I think you'll enjoy this one.

Happy Reading,
Laura

Amazon | Goodreads | BookBub

He shattered my leg, and now he wants to ruin the rest of me.

Greyson Devereux is a menace–but only to me.

To everyone else, he’s charismatic.

He’s the son of a senator and the star of the university’s hockey team.

When all I want is to be invisible, he drags me into the spotlight.

He wants my blood, my fear, my attention.

Resisting him only worsens his obsession.

Fighting solidifies it.

He’s brutal, and he draws out a sick darkness in me that enjoys it.

But I’ll be damned if I let him become my downfall.

Thank you S Massery, and Candi Kane PR, for providing me with an advanced copy of Brutal Obsession.

Please note:

I participate in the Amazon Affiliates program.

Purchases made through links above allow me to earn a small commission.

Thank you!

10 Bookish Gift Ideas

The holiday season is upon us! That means many people are looking for gift ideas for their family and friends. Should there be a book lover on your list, I have a few ideas for you.

As a book lover, I have been keeping my eyes open for new things, and have started a bit of a list. These are all things that I would love to open this holiday season (or any other gift giving time). Perhaps the book lover in your life would like them too.

1) A Warm Blanket

This chunky knit blanket is one that I have on my list! I'm hoping for the 40x60 size. Color wise I am liking this beige, but the light gray, and the camel also caught my eye.

Blanket

2) Cozy Socks

Now personally I am not a big fan of socks, but the Minnesota winters seem to stick around for way too long, and I have to wear the foot prisons when I go out. So why not have cute book socks to wear! I love these comic book socks, the library card socks, of course Harry Potter socks, and these pigeon socks! (My kids and I LOVE Pigeon!)

Comic Socks

Harry Potter Socks

Library Socks

Pigeon Socks

3) A Planner!

I love to have a paper planner so I can keep track of my anticipated reads! It's also a place to plan out my blog post schedule, and of course also to keep track of family happenings. (as well as bills, ugh, adulting!)

Now I already have my planner for 2023, so had I been a bit more patient this could have been a gift, but there was a sale I couldn't pass up, so I gifted it to myself. 

ErinCondren.com

Now if you know me in every day life, you know that I am NOT a Star Wars fan, but this cover was adorable. So I had to. Plus look at that ewok! It's cute! Maybe one day EC will team up with Star Trek, and then I can have a Next Generation cover. Hey a person can dream! Oh, and I go with the vertical weekly in neutral. 

4) Kindle Unlimited Subscription

A KU Subscription is perfect for the avid reader! I mean come on there are over 2 MILLION books available to be read! Not to mention magazines! It really is a fantastic gift opportunity. $9.99 per month is an amazing price. Many indie authors have their books on KU, so consider checking them out.
 

5) Audible Subscription

Do you know an audio book fan? If so, gift them a few months of Audible! Now I am personally not an audio book fan, but my daughter is. So this is a gift possibility for her.

Paying for an entire year may seem a tad expensive, but it really is the best deal, as it works out to $12.50 per month ($150/year).

image source

6) Book Boxes!

This is another subscription idea. Here are two book boxes that I have caught my attention:

Reveal looks amazing! They have 4 different box options, and you can let them know you're preferred tropes! I need this one immediately!

Hello Lovely has many different book box options on their site. Quite a few are sold out, which is a bummer but understandable due to popularity. Personally I have my eye on the Trope of the Month box.

7) MERCH!

Does your reader have a favorite author, or two, or three, or a boatload? I have many favorites. 

This sweatshirt from Novel Grounds is PERFECT for the long Minnesota Winters!

Cheshire Mug from Samantha Lovelock
(Alice in Wonderland retelling)

Folkestone Sins from Samantha Lovelock
(My FAVORITE!)

I NEED this PUCKED hoodie from Helena Hunting!
(Violet + Alex 4EVER!)

I need these STINGERS joggers from the Something So series! Actually I need Novel Grounds to do another release of Natasha Madison merch.

I LOVE the Hockey Gods series from Xavier Neal!
(NEED THIS!)

Also, I desperately need Kim Loraine and Meg Anne to release some Mate Games merch! I would love a hoodie for Ravenscroft University! (or a tote, notebook, pouch, etc)

8) Bookshelf Board Games

I have 4 of these games, and want to add more to my collection! I love how they look on the shelf, and they are just fantastic versions to own. I love how the boxes look like books.

Clue

Monopoly

Scrabble

Sorry

Yahtzee

9) Signed Books or Special Covers

Find out who the reader's favorite author is, go to their website or Facebook page, and find out if they offer signed copies or special edition covers. Many offer this! Your reader will appreciate it! I have my eye on the Natasha Madison Southern series covers, as well as Helena Hunting's PUCKED series, and the Sterling Falls series from S Massery!

10) A Kindle

I know, I know, I know...I used to feel the same way about Kindles. I was firmly "physical book" for many years. Then my husband gifted me a Kindle Paperwhite and it reinvigorated my love of reading. Plus it allowed me to discover so many indie authors, that I'm now obsessed with. I recommend the Paperwhite, but I have heard good things about the Oasis. I love that side panel that the Oasis offers. The Scribe looks neat, but that price tag is not for me. I do love the option to write though, but not enough to spend $340 or higher.

There you have it! The 10 items that I think any book lover would enjoy.

Happy Reading,
Laura

Please note:

I participate in the Amazon Affiliates program, as well as the Erin Condren referral program.

Purchases made through links above allow me to earn a small commission.

Thank you!

Thankful

 

Today is Thanksgiving here in America. It is a time to look back at the good moments that have happened in the year, and be thankful for those. 

What am I thankful for this year?

First and foremost, my husband and our kids. I think that is an automatic.

Our amazing neighbors. This year there are 5 of us families that have come together and have found fun ways to spend time together. We are building friendships, our kids are deepening theirs, and memories are being made.

The kitchen remodel is essentially complete! Now it's just those smaller projects (backsplash tile, baseboards) that need to be accomplished. This was a major undertaking, and it has turned out better than I could have expected.

My oldest brother had no major damage to his home in Florida after Hurricane Ian went through. (he had just moved to Florida a month earlier!)

Speaking of that hurricane...I am also thankful that my Mom and stepdad were NOT in Florida during that. The mobile home community that they have a property in had so much destruction. While that chapter of their Florida story is over, they've since found another place to move to.

Music. I have been playing 3 albums back to back, and I regret nothing. (If you're curious: Harry's House, Midnights, and Faith in the Future) Music brings such joy to my life, and I often find myself singing along to whatever is on the radio (or those 3 albums that I play on repeat.)

Books, and the authors who create the books. In 2022 I have been fortunate enough to read many advanced copies of new releases. Through these advanced copies I've discovered many authors who I adore. They are the ones that you see on my anticipated reads list month after month. Reading is my primary hobby, and being able to escape into those amazing worlds is just the best.

Last, but certainly not least, is the fact that I am able to continue to be a stay at home mom. With the way prices are going, that may not always be the case. Right now I cherish these moments, and give thanks for the situation. Being a stay at home mom allows me to take care of my kids when they are sick without having to worry about work, run them to doctors appointments, have meetings with their teachers, pick them up early from school if need be, volunteer at their schools, and so much more. This blessing is something I do not take lightly.

What are you thankful for? What positive events from this year stand out?

Laura

Please note:

I participate in the Amazon Affiliates program.

Purchases made through links above allow me to earn a small commission.

Thank you!

All We Are by JH Croix {a review}

Thea was a drug, the very best kind for my body, the forbidden fruit.

The time has come for the final book in the Haven's Bay Holiday series from JH Croix. That means it's time for All We Are which is Thea's story! As we learned in All We Have, Thea and Joe were high school sweethearts who were heartbroken when their relationship ended. After all it wasn't their choice, but rather that of a parent. Now here we are years later, and their meet cute involves a snowstorm. I love a good second chance romance!

My rating for All We Are:

If you've read my reviews for All I Want, All We Have, and All I Need you'll know that I have mixed feelings about this series. When I first heard of the Haven's Bay Holiday series, my mind immediately went to Hallmark and Lifetime movies. I fully expected that quintessential holiday romance. You know what I'm talking about, the instalove, small town, major holiday vibes romance. That's what I wanted. That was what I built up in my head. How could I not when this is marketed as a holiday romance series set in a small town. Maybe I've just watched too many of those movies over the years. (and I'll continue to watch them.)

That being said, I enjoyed Thea and Joe’s story. Their meet cute was adorable, and I love their history together. First loves reuniting will always tug at my heartstrings. 

Then there's the fact that Joe is a dad! He has a little boy who he doesn't get to spend a lot of time with, but when they are together, you can feel the love. This storyline hit those mama feelings. No it wasn't perfect, but there is nothing perfect about being a parent. Plus Joey has been through a lot in his little life, so I fully expected things to not be smooth sailing. I will say I wasn't expecting the twist that came into play. I'm still not in favor of that twist. I feel it was unnecessary. But that's just me.

Thea's reason for returning to Maine makes sense as she was looking for an escape. The news she received back in Boston wasn't something she had expected. Plus the person she had been dating didn't handle that news all the best. So she was nursing heartache on top of that news. I have mixed feelings about how her and Joe reestablished their relationship. Plus that storyline regarding Thea's news was never really closed with other individuals. I don't like to say "closed", but that storyline made it seem as though it would be a discussion with others, but those discussions never happened. It was essentially swept under the rug. I will say that I was happy that JH Croix didn't take that storyline another route with a "Christmas miracle" type situation.

While this reunion started in December, it didn't all happen that month. So would I consider it a holiday romance? No I would not. See my above expectations for this series. Was Thea and Joe's reunion still a good story? Yes it was. Was it my favorite of the series? No it wasn't. I would say that it was my second favorite. Noah and Sasha's story was my favorite. Did I enjoy the second chance romance for Thea and Joe? OH absolutely! Second chance romance is a weakness of mine.

Final thoughts...The stories in the Haven's Bay Holiday series were enjoyable. I just had higher expectations for the storytelling after reading a couple of JH's series that are set in Alaska. At times it felt like the Haven Bay stories jumped forward too much, and it just didn't flow how I'm accustomed to. I also can't help but come back to the "holiday" moniker. These are not holiday romances, not by any means. They are the standard contemporary romance, and they just begin in the month of December.

Do I recommend the series? Yes, but no. As with any book, it's all about the reader. If the descriptions of the books sound interesting, go for it. I just suggest going in with an open mind. Only you can determine if the book is right for you. Don't let my thoughts deter you from reading. If you do decide to read the series, please let me know your thoughts.  Also, which couple is your favorite?

Happy Reading,
Laura

Amazon | Goodreads | BookBub

A swoony small town holiday romance from USA Today Bestselling Author J.H. Croix!

✔️ Two broken hearts
✔️ One holiday week
✔️ Swoony second chance
✔️ Holiday hotness
✔️ Small town shenanigans


The forbidden bad boy. The rich good girl. High school sweethearts.

The last person I expect to see when my car breaks down is Joe Martinelli. I broke my own heart when I moved away after high school. Joe is my first and only love, and my father refused to let us see each other.

That was all before my father blew our family up and landed in jail for fraud. I meant to escape to Maine for the week before Christmas, except it turns out my brother is holed up at the house with my friend. I have a broken down car and nowhere to go.

Of course, it’s also snowing so heavily I can only see a few feet in front of me. When Joe offers to let me stay at his place, it seems like the smart plan. It has nothing to do with how hot he is, absolutely nothing to do with how much I missed him, and definitely nothing to do with my latest bad luck in romance.

One night turns into two, one kiss turns into three and even more.

Joe & Thea’s story is perfect for readers who love: swoony second chances, broken hearts mended, small town gossip, emotional romance with a dash of angst, plenty of swoon and all the feels, and a protective hero who’ll do anything to win back the only girl he ever loved.

Thank you JH Croix, and Wildfire Marketing Solutions, for providing me with an advanced copy of All We Are.

Please note:

I participate in the Amazon Affiliates program.

Purchases made through links above allow me to earn a small commission.

Thank you!

Ruthless Reign by Aleatha Romig {a review}

Nothing is as it appears. Reflections deceive.

I still consider myself relatively new to Aleatha Romig's writing. At this point I've read 6 of her books, and I've fully enjoyed each of them. So when I heard about a royal romance series, I knew I had to read it as soon as possible. I downloaded the prequel, but I didn't need to as that's included within Ruthless Reign. Should you choose to pick up Ruthless Reign, know two things: 1) there are twists and turns and you may find yourself a bit lost at times, and 2) THAT CLIFFHANGER!

My rating for Ruthless Reign:

If you follow me on Goodreads, chances are you saw my review pop up, and were confused. I literally wrote three sentences. Which if you've read any of my reviews, you know I am long winded. Don't take that brevity as me not liking the book. This book pulled me, confused a bit, and then knocked me upside the head with that revelation. Seriously, I was blown away. So I didn't know what to say in my review at the time.

Not only did I not know what to say in my review, I was also worried about divulging too much, or even potentially giving a spoiler. Here's what I can tell you...

• Lucille married Prince Roman, and moved to his country.
• Their marriage is basically in name only, and they spend little time together.
• Lucille is bored, and wants to help out more with matters of the state. Roman, the King, and the Firm all are against this.
• Roman has a temper, as well as anxiety, and he's not handling things very well.
• Oliver is an actor who has just been offered the role of a lifetime.
• There is something going on in the country, and the villagers are very unhappy.
• Attraction is building, and not acting upon it is getting difficult.
• Secrets are being kept by everyone, and some are about to spill.

Was I vague enough?

Ruthless Reign was such an interesting read. The way it ended has me cursing the fact that Resilient Reign isn't out until January 31, 2023. I don't want to wait that long. I need to know what is going to happen next, when this secret is going to get out, what else is happening, who can be trusted, all of it...I need to know. Now I sit and wait, and maybe pout a little.

If you are a fan of Aleatha's storytelling, then run and grab this book immediately. (or be smarter than I am, and wait for Resilient Reign to release so you don't have to deal with that cliffhanger for as long.) Prepare yourself for the twists and turns, the revelations, and to be watching every single character to see who is trustworthy.

Happy Reading,
Laura

Amazon | Goodreads | BookBub

I have a secret. I’m not who you think.

In this world where gowns, castles, and crowns make for the perfect reflections, life isn’t always as it appears. Love is elusive, even when the most beautiful woman is right before you. Illusions distort visions, shadows lurk in the sunshine, and monsters tread behind smiles and chivalrous facades.

I, Roman Archibald Godfrey, swore an oath to Molave.

To the king.

And above all, to Princess Lucille.

Forget the fairytales you’ve heard. This world is ruthless.

Thank you Aleatha Romig, and Wildfire Marketing Solutions, for providing me with an advanced copy of Ruthless Reign.

Please note:

I participate in the Amazon Affiliates program.

Purchases made through links above allow me to earn a small commission.

Thank you!

December Anticipated Reads

“In the winter she curls up around a good book and dreams away the cold.”

–Ben Aaronovitch

The last month of the year is almost upon us! Can you believe that? I'm a little shocked. It feels as though I was just returning to my blog, catching up on things, and getting used to my kids being in school again. Then I blinked, and here we are. 

December brings a lot of fun happenings for my family, as well as Christmas and New Years Eve. I'm looking forward to it all.

What I'm also looking forward to are these new releases! I have 16 books on my anticipated reads list, and my goal is to read them all. You'll have to wait for my monthly wrap up (to be posted in January) to see what I actually read. Don't want to wait? Follow me on Goodreads!

Let's jump into the books.