A to Z Reading Challenge 2023 {February Update}

It's time for my second check in for 2023's A to Z challenges! I've knocked a few more letters off my list, and I am so happy to be making progress. Here's hoping that 2023 is my year to complete these reading challenges. 

Were you able to complete any letters this month? How many do you have left to go? Also are you doing the title challenge, the author challenge, or are you doing both?

See you back here at the end of March for another update!

Happy Reading,
Laura

What I Read Last Week

Happy Monday! After the snowstorm last week, we are back on our usual routines this week. Thank goodness! We ended up with about 12 inches of snow, and that is 12 more than I'd like. I'm ready for spring! It's winter in Minnesota though, so snow happens.

Last week I read 8 books! I finished up a series, continued on in another, and started a new one. If you know me, you know I'm wild about series. Love them! My favorite read of the week was Off to the Races by Elsie Silver. I could not get enough, and am continuing on with the series. Obviously. Also I made great progress on Gina Azzi's backlist titles! I have 5 books left (a series + a standalone), as well as a kindle vella story. I'm going to press pause on that mission though, as I also want to work through the other books on my kindle.

Before we get to the books I read, spill the details on what you've been reading. What was your favorite? Any flops? Read any new (or new to you) authors? What's the reading plan for this week?

Happy Reading,
Laura

Thoughts I had while reading The Owner

Going into The Owner, I figured I would do another thoughts while reading post, as well as add in a tiny review at the end. Before we dive in though, LOOK AT THIS COVER! I absolutely love it. The simplicity, the colors, the team logo, all of it. More of this please.

For those who do not know The Owner is the first book in the Dalvegan Dragons hockey series from Xavier Neal. This fictional town is in Texas, and the owner of the team recently died. So the team has now been handed down to his daughter Harlow Hennington. Harlow has been raised around hockey. She lives and breathes the sport. To say she knows the ins and outs would be an understatement. This is her passion, and nothing will stop her from curating a fabulous team. Not even the life changes that are thrown at her. A spontaneous Vegas wedding? No big deal, she can get it annulled. A surprise pregnancy from that Vegas wedding? Uh, that's going to be a bit more of an adjustment. Falling for her husband? Well that is not in the plans, but it might be happening. First though she needs to take care of her team. Everything else can wait. Or can it.

When I first heard the premise of this book I thought it was going to be an owner/athlete relationship. That was where my mind went, and so when I was reading and that WASN'T the case, I was confused. Guess that's what happens when you make an assumption. What this book is though (trope wise) is age gap, opposites attract, Vegas wedding, surprise baby, and workplace. The Owner is also FULL of hockey lingo and chirping. After all Harlow is the owner of the team now, and hockey is life.

My 3 Favorite Antagonists

Every so often when you read a book, you'll come across that ONE character who you just love to hate. These characters stand out with their actions, their words, and so much more. There is just something about them that has you hoping they do not get a redemption arc in any future books from the author.

Who are the characters that I have a love to hate relationship with? I'd love to tell you.

One Last Chance by Gina Azzi {a review}

In December I read My Christmas Wish by Gina Azzi. This was a seasonal read, but it was also the beginning of Daisy and Finn's story. I have since finished the Kane Brothers trilogy, and it is time to dive into One Last Chance. I need to see what happens once Daisy is in Scotland, working at the same company as Finn, and see how friendship blooms into a happily ever after. I have a feeling Finn isn't going to be able to resist her for long.

My rating for One Last Chance:

Before we dive into my thoughts, let's go over the tropes. In this book we have friends to lovers, a workplace romance, a second chance of sorts, and an age gap (roughly 7 years).

Okay on to my long winded thoughts...

In all of the Kane Brothers books, I had a feeling that Daisy was a strong woman. One Last Chance proved that she is, and that she can do anything she puts her mind to. Her big brothers were just overprotective, and wanted to support/care for her. If you've read Reclaiming Brave, then you know that Sierra was on Daisy about submitting her resume to the family company. Daisy was against it at first, but ultimately gave in. Thankfully she did, and it allowed her to take on this new journey. Plus she had a pseudo-family waiting for her in Scotland, as Sierra's family considered her one of their own. Also when Daisy accepted the position, and was gearing up to leave, the conversation she had with Jax brought tears to my eyes. He understood what it meant to leave to an unfamiliar setting where you know virtually no one.

I was so glad to finally read Finn and Daisy's story. Especially since it seems so long ago that I read My Christmas Wish. (it wasn't that long ago, but I read so much that it just feels forever ago.) Now though here we are getting to see Daisy move to Scotland, reconnect with Finn, and have this new adventure. She's on her own without her brothers or her best friend, and it's a major change. Thankfully she has Finn, Aaron, Callum, and Lachlan nearby for support.

Things with Daisy and Finn started off slowly. He was fighting it for so long with really no explanation. It was honestly frustrating because you could see their mutual attraction. Yet he was still dealing with his past relationship issues, and perhaps doing a little projection. When it came to the point where I thought things were going to advance, it was actually the demise. I wasn't expecting it quite yet. When all of that went down it was a little much. I was shocked by the response, and how everything was handled.

After all of that went down I was even more grateful that Daisy had found a good group of friends shortly after arriving in Scotland. That sense of community was just what she needed, and she had someone other than Sierra's family. Of course there had to be one creeper in that first year group, and honestly that man was a walking red flag. At first I thought he was just a bit awkward, until the true colors were shown. That part of the book broke my heart, even more so than the break up, and I had tears rolling down my cheeks. Now I'll be honest, I debated how to bring this trigger/content warning to light as it is a bit of a spoiler for the story. I don't feel right though not disclosing it especially if it is something another reader has been affected by. So TW/CW for attempted SA and physical.

The work situation was really interesting to read about. I love the challenge that James came up with as a way to test out the new hires. The passion that these characters put into their work was impressive. I was honestly thankful that the competition didn't work out the way I envisioned.

I want to talk about how Daisy and Finn got back together! I do! But I can't because of spoilers. Just know that he is by her side when she needs him.

One thing I know from reading One Last Chance, as well as all the Kane Brothers books, I am absolutely loving this family! I do wish I had closure for one storyline that took place in Denver's book, but maybe one day Gina Azzi will address that. 

Have you read the Kane Brothers trilogy or the Finding Love in Scotland series? These books have been out for a while now, but I just discovered them and really enjoyed the stories. 

Happy Reading,
Laura
 

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I participate in the Amazon Affiliates program.

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

Thank you!

5 of my Favorite Fictional Characters

It takes a lot for a character to stand out for me. I need them to grab hold of my attention, and wish for more of their story, or wish to see them appear as major side characters in future books in the series. I want to celebrate their happy moments, I want to cry with them during their sad moments, and I want to be by their side during the difficult times. When that happens these are often the characters that I wish I could befriend in their fictional worlds.

I read a lot of books. A LOT. Therefore choosing favorites is always a difficult task. However there are some characters that stand out more than others. It's these characters who are just screaming "I'm your favorite", and "don't you forget about me". Believe me when I say there are quite a few that stand out. Today though I'm only going to share five of them. Maybe I'll revisit this in the future and do a secondary post. Time will tell.

Who are some of your favorite characters? Any specific reason they stand out?

Happy Reading,
Laura

What I Read Last Week

It's a new week! My kids are off from school two days this week, and honestly if the weather forecast is right, they could be off all week. It's looking like we could get hit with over a foot of snow. Let me tell ya, I am not excited about the snow. It seems like we had so much this winter, and it was just starting to melt. I told my husband that I'm fine with winter hanging on, but I'd like to unsubscribe to the snow and ice. If only it worked that way.

This week I read 6 books! Quite honestly they were all pretty fabulous. Broken Love Story by Natasha Madison was my favorite of the week. There was just something about those two characters, and all that they had been through, that hit me so hard. Between baseball romance and hockey romance, I read 3 sports romance books. It really is my favorite thing ever. Ever so slowly I am working my way through Gina Azzi's backlist, as well as Natasha Madison's. Their storytelling, and characters, are some of my favorites.

Fill me in on what you read last week. Did you have a favorite? Any duds? What's the reading plan for this week?

Happy Reading,
Laura

Brother's Best Friend Hockey Romance Recommendations

I feel like a broken record when it comes to the brother's best friend trope, but it truly is one of my top 3 favorite tropes. I can't help it. It's just so good. Plus I think a lot of people have their favorite tropes, so why not lean into it a bit.

Now when I posted my Brother's Best Friend Romance recommendations post the other day, I had mentioned that I could probably do an entire post just based on hockey. So here I am. 

I went through all of the hockey romances that I have read, with the exception of a few where tropes weren't crystal clear (ahem: Aven Ellis), and compiled a list. Turns out I have read 12 that feature the brother's best friend, or best friend's sibling, trope. Three of these I mentioned in my other post, therefore I won't repeat what I said about those. I will however still list them. 

What is your favorite trope? Or are you like me and have a top 3? Also, have you read any of these hockey romances? Any books that I should read? I'd love to know all the things.

Happy Reading,
Laura

Let's start with the three books I had previously mentioned. They were:

The Risk Taker by Gina Azzi

Something So Irresistible by Natasha Madison

Maxim by Samantha Whiskey

Now for the new recommendations!

Wheeler by Samantha Whiskey

I loved the Seattle Sharks series from Samantha Whiskey! I cannot think of a single book that I didn't enjoy. So many various tropes, and the characters were all amazing. Lukas and Faith's story was no different. Lukas hired Faith as his personal assistant after her brother suggested it. Well Lukas has had a thing for Faith for a while now, and this is going to make working in such close proximity interesting.  The goal is to keep things platonic and maintain that friendship. Well that is until the sparks fly.

Change on the Fly by Maren Moore

Change on the Fly was an emotional read. Not necessarily because of the relationship between Reed and Holland, but because of the situation with Reed's nephew. That storyline gutted me. But witnessing Holland assist Reed with caring for Evan was everything. Then Reed stepping up and taking care of the issues Holland was having as well? Yep, so good. Reed is a protector through and through, and this story just solidified that. These two characters pulled me, and I loved getting to know them, as well as all of the friends and family.

Sneaking Around with #34 by Piper Rayne

Oh Warner! This man has quite the past, and he tried to keep his upbringing a secret. Part of his past has to do with Imogen. Who is Imogen you ask? Ford's sister. Yes the same Ford who Warner is now teamed up with. This second chance romance was my favorite of the Hockey Hotties series. I loved how we learned about the past, how it was affecting the present (relationship/teamwork with Ford & Warner), and then witnessing the happily ever after in progress. This book had it's emotional moments, it's tense moments, and some passionate ones as well. 

Scoring to Win Duet by Maren Moore
The Scorecard & The Final Score

Oh what to say about this duet. Graham and Emery's story will take you through the wringer. Graham and Reed are good friends, and Reed is Emery's big brother. So things are tense in that situation. But when a night together leads to a pregnancy, their lives are about to flip upside down. Not only that, but they are now in a fake relationship. The problem with that is they don't get along. They are constantly butting heads. Yet somehow they end up falling. The Scorecard does end on a cliffhanger of sorts, so make sure to have The Final Score ready to go. Their story is going to take you on a ride. It will be emotional. You will want to smack one or both of them upside their fictional heads. Yet at the same time you may just fall for this couple, and find yourself cheering them on as they get their happily ever after.

Cross Checked Hearts by Cali Melle

Cross Checked Hearts is the very first book in the Wyncote Wolves series from Cali Melle. What better way to kick off a series than with the brother's best friend trope! Or maybe that's just my opinion. Anyway, Logan and Isla have known each other for years. That goes to show how far back Logan and August go. Now though Isla is starting college, and her brother is having her move into the apartment he shares with Logan. Surely nothing will happen with these two living in the same space. No way will they act on any feelings. Yeah right, of course they will. 

Splintered Ice by Cali Melle

Splintered Ice is the sixth book in the Wyncote Wolves series, and we are revisiting the trope! Except this time it is Sterling falling for his sister's best friend. Olivia just transferred to Wyncote, and she knows no one. So her bestie contacted Sterling, and told him to make sure Olivia has a good time, and finds some friends. Olivia's had a crush on Sterling for a while now, and all this time together might just cause the friendship to blur a bit. Even if Sterling thinks he should avoid at all costs. After all that crush might not be so one-sided. 

Covered by Elise Faber

If you know me at all you know that I am OBSESSED with the Gold Hockey team. It is seriously one of my favorite hockey series, and I will devour every book that is released. I will also devour every spin off (see: Rush Hockey). Ben is falling for his best friend's sister. Jordyn is a recently single mom, and Ben is stepping in to help her out. After all that single mom aspect is something he's familiar with, since it's how he grew up. I loved their relationship. I loved how the team surrounded Jordyn with love and community. Then there is Jordyn's kids who were adorable. One of my favorites from the series.

Bad Crush by Rebecca Jenshak

Oh look it's another college romance! This was my introduction to Rebecca Jenshak's storytelling, and it hooked me. Adam and Reagan's story tugged at my heartstrings. I went through a variety of emotions. I loved the setting, I loved the characters, and everything that happened in the book. Reagan falling for Ginny's big brother was so good.

Charming As Puck by Pippa Grant

This is the fourth book in the Copper Valley Thrusters series from Pippa Grant. If you're unfamiliar with Pippa's writing style, it is pure rom-com. The male characters are always an interesting group, and the females are typically smart, strong, and independent. It's a unique mix to say the least. Now it's been a few years since I've read this book so I can't remember much about it. What i do remember is that it was funny, it had a good storyline, and I put on Goodreads that it was my favorite of the series. Also when it comes to the trope, it's actually a version of that trope. Our heroine is falling for her best friend's brother. I always love how the best friend reacts, and the majority of the time I feel that they are all for it. 

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I participate in the Amazon Affiliates program.

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

Thank you!

My Romance Reading Journey {Book Tag}

Tuesday I was watching videos on youtube, as you do, and I came across this brand new book tag! It was created by Beccie at BecxReadz, and together with 9 other booktubers a list of questions surrounding our romance reading journeys was formed.

I decided why not participate! Was I tagged? Of course not, I'm a tiny little book blogger that's not on anyone's radar. That isn't stopping me though. So if you're on the fence about participating, don't be. Jump on in.

I'd love to know how you would answer these 10 questions!

Happy Reading,
Laura



*QUESTIONS*

1. About how old were you when you started reading romance and do you remember the first romance you read?

Asked by Beccie 

I don't remember how old I was when I started reading romance. I do recall reading my mom's copy of Romancing the Stone, but I don't know if that is even considered romance. I also have memories of reading a couple of her Danielle Steel books when I was a young teenager, but I could not tell you the titles. The first romance I remember reading was Montana Sky by Nora Roberts. I'm pretty sure I read it as an ARC because I worked at a bookstore at that time. (anyone remember Media Play?) I loved the story, and I became a major fan of Nora's books.

2. Did you deliberately seek out romance or did you stumble upon it? And how?

Asked by Crystal 

I stumbled into it quite honestly. Or at least it feels that way. Again it was so long ago, that it's hard to completely remember. I remember reading a lot of Jodi Picoult and Nicholas Sparks, and being drawn to the relationships within those stories.

3. Did you start with traditionally published or indie and has it switched?

Asked by Kelsi 

Traditionally published. I'm old enough to remember the days before the internet, so indie published books weren't a big thing then. I will say that my preferences have changed, and I predominantly read indie published now. It's very rare for me to pick up a traditionally published book.

4.What was a romance trope you were afraid to try but ended up loving?

via Jess 

Dark romance! Before reading my first I couldn't imagine even picking up a book like "that". However after reading a few that scary factor disappeared, and I became more comfortable with the trope. Now I will say reading dark romance has tested my tolerance a bit. I'm figuring out what I'm acceptable with versus what is way too much, or too dark. I will say that Eden by Xavier Neal was too dark for me. So there's that.

5. Is there a romance book you read early on in your journey that you would rate differently today?

via Caitlin 

Possibly. Until the last couple of years I was not one to rate books or review them. I would just consume, either like the book or not, and move on. Now though it's completely different. Now it's very rare for me to not review a book or rate it. So I can't really pick a book that I would rate differently. If I had to choose, it would probably be a Nicholas Sparks book. (I will say that Two by Two I should have DNF'd versus giving a 2 star to, so that could be my answer I guess.)

6. How has your taste in romance evolved over the years?

from Bree 

I'm a lot more open to reading new authors, new scenarios, different steam levels, and all of that. I used to be a very fade to black reader, and there was even a time where I read nothing but Christian fiction. Now I'll just about read it all if the blurb appeals to me. I also gravitate to indie authors over traditionally published. (that might also have something to do with affordability, but I also just enjoy the stories much more than trad pub.)

7. What is the most powerful romance that you have read that left a lasting impact?

from Kaylani 

The Grip Trilogy by Kennedy Ryan.

Quite honestly it opened my eyes, and helped me to better understand the things that black people have to deal with on a regular basis. Not only that but it showed my biases that I didn't realize I had. Reading this trilogy changed me, how I think, how I respond, and how I act. If anything it helped me to become a bit more open minded. Aside from the personal changes, this story just touched my heart. It showed everything that this couple dealt with over many years, and Still had me bawling. Oh that book! I will recommend that trilogy every chance I get.

8. What was the romance book that told you this is what I am looking for in my personal life and/or partner?

via Jackie 

I was already married when my deep dive into romance really began, so I can't say I was looking for anything. Maybe if I were a single woman I would be able to say otherwise. For me though reading romance is just an escape, these books are my television shows. I invest myself into the worlds, into the characters, and their stories. So there's no looking for traits, or anything like that for my partner.

9. Which romance book(s) would you recommend to a romance newbie and a seasoned romance reader?

asked by Ava 

For a newbie I would honestly suggest some Nora Roberts books such as the Inn Boonsboro series, the Bride quartet, the Cousins O'Dwyer trilogy, and the Guardians Trilogy. For indie published I would suggest Aven Ellis's Modern Royals and British Isle Billionaries series. I would also say the Southern series by Natasha Madison. All of those books are such easy reads where you escape into the worlds and don't necessarily want to leave. I adored them all.

For a seasoned romance reader that's more difficult as it depends on the trope preferences, the steam preferences, and any triggers.  If you're looking to try out a newer author then I would suggest Kristin Turnage. Her books are small town romance, new adult, they are emotional, and they are some of my absolute favorites. Then there is also Samantha Lovelock and her Folkestone Sins series which I'm obsessed with. It's new adult, the main characters are rich kids, and the suspenseful element is what drew me in. I cannot wait for the 5th, and final, book to be released so I know how all of this ends. I say that because it is an ongoing story. This town has secrets, the families have secrets, and there is a lot going on. If you haven't read any Kennedy Ryan, then you need to. Kennedy's books are so well written, and researched. They hit hard and often have emotional scenes as well. Grip is fabulous and unforgettable, but so is the All the Kings Men duet. That duet was actually my introduction to Kennedy, and so they have a soft spot in my heart. There is one scene in the second book (the end of chapter 24) that I'm still not over. I audibly gasped in that moment.

10. In your eyes, what are 3 "perfect" romances?

from Sam

Since this is "in my opinion" and we all have varying opinions...My list looks like this with no explanation.

• The Edge of Happiness by Kristin Turnage
• The Grip Trilogy by Kennedy Ryan
• Driven by K Bromberg (the entire series)

Please note:

I participate in the Amazon Affiliates program.

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

Thank you!

Recently Purchased Kindle Books {aka book haul!}

I don't think I've ever shared a book haul before. That's just wild. So let's fix that today!

These are the 10 books that I have purchased in the last 6 weeks. All of them are romance, and 4 of them I purchased because of TikTok. 

I'm also working on reading the backlist for two of my auto-buy authors, and so these purchases are helping me to accomplish that goal. Hopefully one day soon I'll be able to say that I've read everything that is currently published. Only time will tell though.

What books have you purchased recently? Any recommendations? Also are you an ebook buyer or a physical buyer? I would love to own physical copies of all my books, but the budget does not allow for that at this time. One day though...one day.

Happy Reading,
Laura

Final Offer by Lauren Asher

Cupid Book Tag

Happy Hallmark holiday! The Cupid book tag seemed like the perfect option for today.  I found this through Heather at Bookables, and I figured why not share my answers.

So here are my responses to the questions. I'd love to hear how you would answer them.

Happy Reading,
Laura

What's the perfect candy to eat while reading?
Starburst Jelly Beans immediately came to mind. They are my absolute favorite. In all honesty though I don't eat while reading.

What's a song that reminds you of your favorite romance (or just your favorite romantic song in general)?
We'll go with some of my favorite romantic songs.
Love of my Life by Harry Styles
I Guess I'm in Love by Citizen Kane
Black and White by Niall Horan
18 by One Direction
Feels Like Home by Chantal Kreviazuk

If you were to go on a perfect reading date, where would it be? it could be somewhere across the world.
Ooh the bookstore date in A Complete Game by Aven Ellis. Yes, that is what I would like.

What's the best friendship you've read in a book?
The characters that came to mind immediately were Stella and Sunday, along with their guys Poe and Payne. That's right, the quartet from Folkestone Sins would be my answer.

A VERY close second would be the guys from the Dallas Oilers hockey team that is featured in the Only One and Made For series by Natasha Madison. The bromance these men have going is one of my favorites. Yes some of the guys are family, but it doesn't change my opinion. 

Create the perfect bouquet for your favorite book or character.
Oofta that's a difficult one. I could see Matt making Holly a bouquet with planner supplies. After all planners are one of her passions. So washi tape, stickers, good pens, and so forth. Yep, that's what I'll go with.

What romance do you not necessarily need a whole sequel for, you just want to check in on them and make sure everything is going well?
Um, this is what I want with almost every series that I finish. Right now my mind goes to the guys from the Boston Hawks hockey team. I just want to see how they are all doing, find out if they're still with the team, have they been traded, did they retire, etc. So Gina Azzi, I need an update, please.

What date in a book (or movie!) do you wish you could go on yourself?
Well there was the date that took place in Out of Play by Aven Ellis. Dinner was in Paris, and then they were back to London for an event. Is it over the top? Abso-freaking-lutely. Is it a realistic date? HAHAHA NO. But a woman can dream.

What is your favorite nickname from a romance?
They've all been pretty basic. Although I did really like Dollface in Unexpected Love Story by Natasha Madison!

What are your most anticipated romances of 2023? 
I'm not sure we're ready for this conversation, so I'll just list a few that are releasing in the next few months.
Bad Boy's Downfall by Gina Azzi
Wounded Things by Samantha Lovelock
Pool of Tears by Samantha Lovelock
The Owner by Xavier Neal
Curveball by Lisa Suzanne (actually this entire series)
Made for Us by Natasha Madison
The Edge of Forgiveness by Kristin Turnage
The Problem with Second Chances by Piper Rayne

Please note:

I participate in the Amazon Affiliates program.

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

Thank you!

What I Read Last Week

Another week is done, and Valentine's Day is just around the corner. It's so strange to think that February is half over. That's just wild.

This week I read 7 books, and I loved the majority of them. There was a couple arcs, sports romance, a geeky romance, a few novellas, and of course books by Natasha Madison and Gina Azzi. By reading those two arcs, I also managed to cross off two more books from my anticipated reads list! With many of the books that I read I found myself laughing, I teared up a few times, and I definitely fell for many of the characters. All in all it was a good reading week.

Tell me about what you read last week. Any favorites? Any misses? What's the reading plan for this week?

Happy Reading,
Laura

10 of My Favorite Brother's Best Friend Romances

It should come as no surprise that I ADORE the Brother's Best Friend (and/or sister's best friend) trope. I've spoken about that before. Maybe it goes back to the fact that I grew up with two older brothers, and had a crush on a few of their friends way back then. That could play a small part in it. Maybe. No matter what though I'm obsessed and I find myself gravitating toward those stories. I think another part of it is similar to the friends to lovers trope. It's this person that you know, that you see on the regular, and an attraction just builds, or has the potential to build.

As brother's best friend is one of my top three favorite tropes I figured I'd share a few recommendations. Those that I selected are 10 of my favorite books that feature this trope. Of course there are other tropes that these books fall into as well, but I selected them for the brother's best friend trope. (psst: one is actually a sister's best friend book.) Be proud of me, I only shared 3 hockey romances. In all reality I could have probably had an entire post dedicated to hockey.

Have you read any of these titles? Do you have any recommendations for the brother's best friend trope? Fill me in on your favorites!

Happy Reading,
Laura

As You Wish by Angela Quarles {a review}

As you may know, I am participating in the A to Z reading challenge, where I am doing both the title and the author challenges. One of the letters that I struggle with the most is Q. Plus knowing what my preferences (contemporary romance, maybe a little pnr) are that made it a bit difficult. So I headed to my library to see what I could find. That is when I stumbled upon As You Wish by Angela Quarles. According to the author's website, this book was originally published in 2012, and was named "Beer and Groping in Las Vegas". The blurb for As You Wish is what drew me to select this book over other authors who had the last name that began with Q. I love geeky references in contemporary romances!

Riley McGregor is a geek trapped in a Good Ole Boy body and as owner of a microbrewery, smart chicks never look at him twice.

Rejected by a geek who wanted to “trade up,” Mirjam Linna would rather immerse herself in work than be the girlfriend-of-the-moment. Stranded in a Vegas hotel, she makes a wish—a night of hot sex with the man of her dreams. It’s granted. She agrees to dinner, but afterward, she’ll say thanks, but no thanks, and see what’s on the SyFy channel. But when they meet, they’re surprised to find they had a shared connection in their past. Sparks fly as these two learn to be in the moment, be themselves and find love.

Fans of Star Trek, Star Wars, Monty Python, Firefly and Marvin the Martian will enjoy this romantic comedy.

The moment I read for fans of Star Trek, I knew I had to read this book! While Next Gen is my preferred era of Star Trek, I'll be the first to admit that Enterprise is another one that I loved. (Next Gen is all because of Capt Picard, and Wesley Crusher.)

Mirjam is our heroine, and she is currently in Las Vegas where she just attended a conference for AppExpo. Mirjam's primary focus at the moment is work. Especially since she's not keen on dating. But while speaking to Jenn, the bartender, she makes a wish, and that is when things begin to change. Next thing Mirjam knows, she's headed out on a blind date. Jenn is seriously acting like her fairy godmother!

What could be more drastic than a blind date with a stranger arranged by some unseen force using a slot machine as it's mouthpiece?

Okay my geeky Star Trek loving heart laughed at this line:

 

She stuck out like a Redshirt on an away mission.

Dang Jenn is pulling out all the punches to make this blind date a success for Mirjam!

Riley has now arrived on the scene, and he just felt compelled to try the slot machine where he too received a letter that had his name on it. He's up for the adventure. After all it's been over a year since his last date, and his microbrewery takes up all of his time. Plus who wants to date a geek? Jim leaves him with one final piece of advice:

"Be in the moment and you will find the answer."

Once these two meet, that was when the story picked up. We learn about a past connection, and see them start to get to know each other.  Then of course comes the steamy moments.

On to my thoughts about the book...

I absolutely loved the geeky references that appeared in this quick read. Even more so when it was Star Trek related. I also enjoyed the way these two found their way to each other. That magical element was intriguing. Who knew that a wish made in Vegas would end up this way.

That being said, I do wish there had been a better balance between the story and the steam. However the entire book is 55 pages, so there isn't really a lot of options available. Also the scenes after Mirjam received the envelope, until the time Riley received his could have been done away with. That time would have been better spent building a connection between the characters, or seeing more of their date, or even what happened after Vegas. That's just my opinion though.

At the end of the day, the geeky references were what drew me in, and really the story itself was just okay. Nothing really memorable, except maybe those Marvin the Martian boxers.

What did I rate As You Wish?

I went back and forth on this. My initial thought was 2.5 stars. As I sat with it more, I realized that 3 stars is more fitting. So for now, it's 3 stars.

Now the question comes, will I read more by Angela Quarles? The answer is potentially. I know my library has plenty of the authors books available for kindle download, so maybe. I mean, I'd be willing to read another book, but I think I would have to find a full length novel versus a novella. I need more character development, as well as more plot. 

Have you read anything by this author? Have you even heard of Angela Quarles? Obviously I was new to Angela's writing, and I hadn't heard of her before perusing my library's ebook selection.

Happy Reading,
Laura

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