April Releases I'm Excited About

 

Another chapter of 2021 has just about been completed. Can you believe it? I know I'm a bit in denial about the fact we are about to start April. My youngest turns 5 in April, my oldest turns 14, and of course I turn a year older as well. Then there's the fact that in just a little over two months my kids will be on summer vacation! Weren't we just starting the school year? Egads. 

Anyway, here are the romance books I'm anticipating for April.

April 1

Waiting Game by Lisa Suzanne

This is the fourth installment of the Vegas Aces series. We pick up in Hawaii, and find out what happens next.

April 6

Southern Heart by Natasha Madison

If you know me at all, you know my love for the writings of Natasha Madison. I have loved the first four books in her Southern series, and I may have been a little giddy when she announced the series was continuing.

My Almost Ex by Piper Rayne

I think I've spoken of my Bailey family obsession, and well now I have segued into the Greene Family. The second, full length, book in this series is getting ready to release, and this one features the amnesia trope! If you read My Beautiful Neighbor then chances are you read a snippet of the story.

April 8

I Pucking Love You by Pippa Grant

All I am going to say is HOCKEY ROM COM! I need to know nothing else.

April 12

Caged by Elise Faber

Oooh lookie here, it's another hockey romance! This is book 11 in the Gold Hockey series, and I'm hesitant on this one. Yes, I am anticipating the book, as I do love the series, but I'm also nervous. You see, the last book wasn't my favorite and it was because it was introducing new characters and there was very little interaction with the original crew. So I don't know what to expect. Ahhh!

April 13

Every Time I Fall by Lexi Ryan

When I read the teaser for Every Time I Fall, I was instantly hooked. I mean it features so many tropes that I love! Best friends sibling, small town, friends to lovers. What's not to love. Plus it is featuring a plus size heroine. So I mean, how can I not?

April 15

End Game by Lisa Suzanne

I don't want this book to come out, but I need this book to come out! End Game is the final installment of the Vegas Aces series featuring Luke and Ellie. In this book, we find out how it all ends. WHAT HAPPENS WITH EVERYONE? Will secrets be revealed? I need to know!

April 21

The Faker by Gina Azzi

Yeah, I know, it's another hockey romance. The Faker is the third book in the Boston Hawks series, and I'm hooked.  I know nothing of the premise, except that I think it is a fake marriage. Torsten wants to stay in the US, but if he doesn't get re-signed by the Hawks, that would be out the window. Inquiring minds need to know how this plays out.

What books are you looking forward to being released in April? As per usual, I haven't looked outside the romance genre, but I'm sure there are some excellent books about to be released.

Happy Reading,

Rookie Move {a review}

Samantha Lind has released a brand new book called Rookie Move! Rookie Move is the 9th book in her Indianapolis Eagles hockey series. You already know I love a good hockey romance, so this book drew me in!

 

In this book we are following the relationship between Dylan and Hailey. These two are high school sweethearts, and both know that one day they will marry. They are completely on the same page. The only issue is that he's in Indiana, and she is in California.

If you are not familiar with the premise of Rookie Move, here is the teaser blurb for it.

Dylan

My future was all mapped out.
Graduate high school.
Get drafted.
Make a professional hockey team's roster.
Marry my high school sweetheart.

I had it all within my grasp;
Everything was falling into place.
Except for the distance,
And our conflicting schedules.

Hailey

My future was all mapped out.
Graduate high school.
Graduate Med-School.
Land my dream residency.
Marry my high school sweetheart.

My dream took me to the opposite coast, but my heart just wasn't in it anymore.

Could I find a new path to my goal and still find happiness?

Was thinking we could make this work another rookie move?

 

Time for my thoughts. 

(I will do my best to be spoiler free.)

Rookie Move was a sweet story, and I really liked how it flowed. I felt like I knew the characters, and could imagine the heartache that they were both dealing with due to the distance. Other than their relationship, what also grabbed my attention was the way Dylan was accepted into the Indianapolis Eagles team with little to no issue. From what I could "see" his teammates had no issue with this rookie, and a recently retired player took Dylan under his wing. I thought that was awesome. I love seeing teammates who are more like family than coworkers. The fact that Hailey was also immediately accepted by the WAGs was equally impressive. She didn't have to struggle through making these connections, and building the friendship, it just happened. I mean, yes, she put her foot in her mouth once or twice, but those moments were quickly over looked. 

Honestly, for me, it felt like something was missing in the story. 

I have read NUMEROUS hockey romance series, and and they all seem to follow the same path. We witness the relationship build, we see how the characters connect and fall in love, we meet their friends/family, there are minor issues that get worked through, and then there is the big conflict that happens, and we find ourselves wondering how they will fix this. It is at this point in the book where I am screaming (internally) at the characters, and wondering how they could screw this up! Once that is remedied, we get the reunion, and see them on their way to their HEA.

For me, Rookie Move was missing that. Yes, Dylan and Hailey are living thousands of miles apart. Yes they are both extremely busy with their work (him hockey, her school). But that's minor. Where is this moment that drives them apart, and we witness them coming back together? I needed that, and it wasn't there.

I liked that they were high school sweethearts, I really did. However Dylan and Hailey were almost too perfect. 

Now don't get me wrong, I enjoyed the story. I really did. I just wish it had everything I wanted. 

At the end of the day, as I reflect on the book, I decided to give it a 3/5. 

For those who have read the entire Indianapolis Eagles series, are all the books this way? I fully admit that I jumped into book 9 without having read any of the other books, so I'm not certain. I'm debating with myself about if I should go back and read the other 8 books. Part of me wants to.

Thank you for reading my review. If you've read Rookie Move, I'd love to hear your thoughts.

Happy Reading,

Congratulations Samantha Lind on your new release. Thank you to Wildfire Marketing and Samantha Lind for the advanced reader copy of Rookie Move. All thoughts and opinions are my own, and I was not required to write a positive review. As you can see, mine was more middle of the road.

March Releases I'm Excited About

Oh hi there.

Do you realize that March is a little over a week away? Yeah, I know, I was caught off guard by that too.

A new month means new books being released!

I have five books that I am eagerly anticipating the release of. All except one are series continuations, and that other one is the start of a series. So there's that.

What books am I excited about? Let's discuss.

On March 1st, The Risk Taker by Gina Azzi is available. This is the second book in her Boston Hawks series. If you are like me, and are a bit obsessed with hockey romance, then grab this series. Book two will give us the love story between Easton and Claire. This is a brother's best friend trope, and I cannot wait to dive in. It is also a bit of a forced proximity trope, and while that isn't my favorite, I'm still intrigued. In The Sweet Talker, we saw a bit of Claire's interest in Easton, so I am curious to see how their story is going to play out. I also wonder how much of Easton's addiction will come into play.

Curious what The Risk Taker is about? Here's the blurb:

My brother's best friend, NHL god Easton Scotch, has always seen me as a kid. Now, I'm his new roommate and I'm determined to show him that Claire Merrick is all grown up.

Boston Hawks left wing and bad boy personified, Easton is untouchable, reckless, and sexier than any one man ought to be. He has a complicated past, makes questionable life choices, and doesn't want anyone growing too close. Least of all me.

East makes himself clear on his first day out of rehab, when we become reluctant roommates. At best, I'm angling for friendship. But soon, East is lowering his guard and we're bonding.

When we cross a line there's no coming back from, he spirals, jeopardizing his recovery and my heart. If Easton is the risk taker, then why does it feel like I'm the one gambling it all?

On March 9th, we get Eve Brown's story! Now I know next to nothing about this book except for what the description tells me. And I'm okay with that. I will say that it is sounding like an enemies to lovers story, and that is one of my favorite tropes, so yes please! Oh, and it's also the completion of the series. Excuse me while I go cry. I have loved this series.

Here's the description:

Eve Brown is a certified hot mess. No matter how hard she strives to do right, her life always goes horribly wrong. So she's given up trying. But when her personal brand of chaos ruins an expensive wedding (someone had to liberate those poor doves), her parents draw the line. It's time for Eve to grow up and prove herself--even though she's not entirely sure how...

Jacob Wayne is in control. Always. The bed and breakfast owner's on a mission to dominate the hospitality industry and he expects nothing less than perfection. So when a purple-haired tornado of a woman turns up out of the blue to interview for his open chef position, he tells her the brutal truth: not a chance in hell. Then she hits him with her car--supposedly by accident. Yeah, right.

Now his arm is broken, his B&B is understaffed, and the dangerously unpredictable Eve is fluttering around, trying to help. Before long, she's infiltrated his work, his kitchen--and his spare bedroom. Jacob hates everything about it. Or rather, he should. Sunny, chaotic Eve is his natural-born nemesis, but the longer these two enemies spend in close quarters, the more their animosity turns into something else. Like Eve, the heat between them is impossible to ignore...and it's melting Jacob's frosty exterior.

March 15th brings us Roped Tight, which is the conclusion of the Ryker Ranch series. BOOO! Roped Tight tells us Sam's story, and reveals his history with Tucker. Now I don't know much about Sam, except for the fact that he's a Ryker and he is a professional bull rider. His chosen profession has taken him away from the ranch, but now he's coming back. 

Here is the description from Amazon:

Second chances don't come around every day, but Tucker Weston is mine.

Ten years ago Tucker reeled me in with his sexy smolder. But he cut me loose after I fell hard for him that summer on my family's ranch. I left without looking back. Went to chase my dreams and became Sam Ryker, world champion bull rider.

But I never forgot the first man I loved.

Now, I'm back at my family's ranch and he's here in front of me, just as rugged and hot as he's always been. And though I've sworn to hate him for breaking my heart, I want him more than I should. All those promises I made to myself fly right out the window. Because when I'm near him, I can't think. I can't make the right choices.

Trouble is, my family needs me here, and I can't afford a distraction like Tucker Weston. It'll cost more than my heart this time around.

But all it takes is one kiss before he's got me roped tight yet again.

Even though I'm bummed the Ryker series is ending, Kim Loraine has announced a spin-off series. So there will be more cowboy romance in the future.

Restless Things is coming on March 25! Also, the cover reveal is happening March 1st. After finishing Fractured Things, I have been counting down the days until Restless Things releases. I cannot wait for Sunday and Payne to have their story told. I also need to find out what happened after that cliffhanger! Seriously. Now if you're not familiar with the Folkestone Sins series, it is a new adult dark romance, and it has to be read in order. In the first book, we had Stella returning to California, and taking her place as one of the heirs. I will say this little community has some interesting history. I am seriously hoping that Samantha Lovelock gives us a prequel to tell us about more about all of it. Or who knows maybe more will be revealed in these last two books.

Here is the blurb for Restless Things. It is spoiler free, but it will give you a little something to prepare you for the book.

Sometimes in ruin, we find our truth.

Sunday

Payne Emerson is the boy I grew up with. The one who kept all of my secrets.

My life was perfect, until that one fateful night it all fell apart.
And I became invisible.
When my brother died, my parents looked right through me. My lonely feet stumbled and I finally fell.
Nobody truly knows how deep the darkness within me dwells, nobody except him.
I'm afraid of the fire he ignites within me. Afraid it will burn through the walls I've built to shelter my bruised and wounded heart.

What if I can't find my way back?

I can't lose myself again.

Payne
Sunday Easton is the first girl I ever kissed. The one who holds my heart in the palm of her hand.

When her world collapsed, I tried to be there for her. We were young, I was powerless.
And I became invisible.
She confessed her sins and I kept her secrets, holding tight to her small hand in the dark. Now we don't talk about the heat that burns between us.
I'm the only one who truly sees her and I'm done pretending.

Will she ever trust me enough to let go?

I'll never let her disappear.

Now there are a few content warnings for this book that the author wants people to know. "This book contains situations and flashbacks that may trigger some readers, drug use, mental health issues, language that may be offensive, and scenes of a sexual nature (all consensual)." So please keep that in mind should you choose to read the book. 

I plan on reading the book on release day (I'm hoping to receive an ARC, but if not I'll wait), so I will be able to answer questions should you have any.

The last book that I an anticipating is The Rebel by Kendall Ryan. Now you may recall that I read a novella called One Night with the Rebel, so I know a bit about the book. Not a ton, but a bit. It's hockey romance. It's the first full length book of the series, and I am ready for it. My hockey romance loving heart is giddy. Okay but what about the actual content? It's Holt and Eden's story. If you read the novella, then you know their history. You also know that Eden is the new owner of a professional hockey team, and that there is drama surrounding her new position, and Holt is here to help.

You know I love to share the description of books, so here it is for The Rebel:

Holt

Six years ago, Eden barged into my life and turned everything upside down.

We spent one scorching-hot night together, and then she disappeared into the sunset with the golden jock everyone adored. Which makes sense, right? A girl as beautiful and brilliant as Eden Wynn doesn't end up with a rebel like me.

I expected them to live happily ever after, but that's not what happened. She's back in my life--and tempting me like no one else has. And while I'm certain I'll only tarnish her shine, I want her.

I'd heard the old notion that one night held the power to change everything. I just never believed it.

Until now.

Eden

I'm public enemy number one.

Turns out, the East Coast is protective of their hockey team and very vocal about not wanting a young female owner. Well, too bad, because this team is all Grandpa Wynn left me, and I have no intention of walking away.

Enter my new head of security, Holt Rossi. My history with him is...complicated. Chemistry reignites between us while the world waits for me to stumble.

He's supposed to protect me--but who will protect my heart from him?

 

Can you see why I want to read this book? This is their second chance at romance! Plus I cannot wait to see Eden kick butt at her job, and watch the community change their minds about her.

There you have it, the five books I am eagerly anticipating for the month of March. What books are on your radar for March? Any that you think I might like? 

Happy Reading,

About A Boy {a review}

Stephanie Kay has released her latest book today! It is called About A Boy, and this friends to lovers novella was so good. So good. Now technically About A Boy is part of a multi-author series called All American Boys, but you don't have to read the other books to know what is going on. I don't believe they are intertwined, or if they are it is extremely minor. Although if you want to, go for it! I'm sure it will introduce you to a variety of authors that you might not be familiar with.

 
Now, if you read my February Anticipated Reads post, then you may recall me questioning the last name Lanzi. I was wondering if Maddie Lanzi was any relation to Sophia Lanzi. (Sophia is from Delay of Game, which is book 3 in the San Fransisco Strikers series.) Well my question was answered! I thought they might be sisters, but nope, they are cousins. So yes, they are related. Sorry if that's a spoiler for you. I don't think it is though as Sophia is barely in the book. Anyways, that little connection made me smile.

As I mentioned previously, About A Boy is a friends to lovers story. Maddie and Marco have been best friends since they were little, and their families have always referred to them as M&M. Well Marco has recently flown back into town so he can make some truffles for a wedding, and M&M are sharing a hotel room. All is fine and dandy until they find out about the hotel room situation. That's going to make things a bit more interesting. 

Before I say too much, let's bring in the book blurb:

The best of friends, but nothing more. Until now...

Graphic designer Maddie Lanzi is still figuring out her life. Her freelance business is up and sort of running, but something is missing -- her best friend. The only constant in her life since birth. Inseparable. Until a year ago.

Pastry chef Marco Marchetti has spent the last year in Paris honing his skill with all things chocolate. Life is good. The only thing that could make it better is having his best friend Maddie by his side. Now he's heading stateside to make truffles for her brother's wedding. He's excited to see his family, but all he really wants is to hang with Maddie. They're even rooming together, just like when they were kids.

When a hotel mix-up turns two queen beds into one massive king-size, he's seeing his best friend in a whole new light. Will a weekend of passion turn into a lifetime together or will Marco be heading back to Paris alone?

About A Boy was so good. I loved the story. I loved the romance. I loved how steamy the book was. I loved "seeing" Maddie and Marco together, and reconnect after being separated for the last year. I, of course, also enjoyed when the characters from the San Fransisco Strikers books made an appearance. I was smiling like a fool.

Of course every good love story has a moment where things turn questionable. Can they work through their issue to get to their happily ever after? Can they communicate, and not just assume the other knows? So you already know that an issue arises, but what will happen? How does the book end?

If you enjoy the friends to lovers trope, then please read this book. It is worth it, I promise. About A Boy is a quick and easy read, but I think you'll fall for the characters too. I can only hope to see more of Maddie and Marco in future books by Stephanie Kay.

Happy Reading,

About Stephanie Kay:

USA Today Bestselling Author, Stephanie Kay has always loved a good romance, and she got hooked on the dirty ones at the tender age of 14, when she told her mother that if the cover wasn't a bodice ripper, then there was no sex in the book. As an avid mystery reader, her mother never checked to see if Stephanie was lying. Twenty plus years later, Stephanie's most prized possession is her Kindle, and she may have a Hallmark movie obsession.

You can find her online at www.stephkaybooks.com and on Facebook and Twitter. Please join her reader group for updates and excerpts. 

Thank you to Stephanie Kay for providing me with an advanced reader copy in exchange for a review.

A positive review was not required, this story just made me happy and therefore I talked about it.

About

Only One Touch {a review}

Fellow book lovers, today is the day that Only One Touch releases! It is the fourth book in the Only One series, and we follow the relationship between Nico and Becca. Having read the first three books, part of me always wondered if Nico and Becca might end up together. It just seemed like the natural progression since they were both prominent side characters.

If you haven't read the description for the book, well let's start there:

Nico:
When I inherited the Dallas Oilers from my father, I became one of the youngest owners in hockey history. Even though the team was at the bottom of the hockey standings, I had big plans to change that and bring the Cup to Dallas.

Falling in love was something I never believed would happen to me.

You'd think I was getting everything I ever wanted with the girl and the winning record, but I still have a promise to fulfill to my childhood best friend.

Becca:

Never let them see you sweat has been my life motto since I decided to make a name for myself as the most sought after sport agent.

I know what it takes to close a deal, and only want one thing -- to be the best.

Until I felt his touch one night, and everything I thought I knew was forgotten. Nico is everything I've never let myself want.

But all my cards came crashing down the minute I read the headlines.

It only takes one touch to change everything!

Oh friends, I don't think you're fully ready for this book. You will go through ALL the emotions. You'll love Becca and Nico, and you'll hate each of them too. You may even feel like throwing the book at some points. I'm going to be a bit vague in my post here as I don't want to unintentionally spoil anything.

If you read Only One Night, then you know how that ended. That jaw dropping moment. Flash forward to Only One Touch, and we find out what happened, and why. 

For those familiar with the series, you already know Becca. She is our kick ass agent. She handles all the contracts for Manning, Miller, Ralph, and numerous other athletes. Becca is the woman you want in your corner. She goes above and beyond. Then we have Nico, the owner of the Oilers. This man is all about his work, and has little time for anything else. 

These two see each other frequently due to the nature of their jobs, but suddenly something has changed. They find themselves thinking about the other, and realizing they want to pursue this. Whatever "this" is. Of course Becca is hesitant because they do work together so often. She doesn't want to mess that up. But ultimately the heart wants what the heart wants.

Becca and Nico are amazing together. They balance each other. Through this relationship they are finally figuring out that there is life to be had outside of work. They're learning that they can have a successful relationship, and still run a business that has a crazy amount of responsibility.

That whole situation with Nico and Lauren had me screaming at my kindle. Why, just why? And yes, I wanted to smack a fictional character. Nico fully deserved the heartache and sleepless nights that happened. (I say that but my heart still went out to him.) I mean, I was prepared for this to happen. It's right in the description, and it was mentioned at the end of Only One Night, but still! My heart cannot take this. Sigh.

My heart totally broke for Becca, and I found myself shedding a few tears on her behalf. (okay fine more than just a few.) I don't blame her one bit for running. She needed to focus on her work so that she wouldn't be thinking about Nico constantly, and everything that happened. The way her brothers protected her warmed my heart. The way Ericka was by her side during her most painful days, just had me saying YES. Ericka may be Becca's right hand person, but she's also her friend, and that is what Becca needed. She needed someone in her corner. 

The way this book wrapped up though. Ahhh. It was what my heart needed after being ripped out and trampled on. Even the situation with Lauren made sense. We fully understand why she had to do what she did, and she too is getting the ending she deserves. It just made my heart happy. I may have gave a contented sigh as I finished the book.

Well that is until the ending of the second epilogue. SERIOUSLY NATASHA MADISON! Are you trying to kill me? Geez woman.

One last thing, I love how Natasha brings back those familiar faces from her other two hockey series. Getting to "see" Matthew Grant made me smile. I did find myself getting greedy though and wishing more of the group would appear. Now I can only hope that is the case in Only One Regret. (is it October yet?)

So tell me, have you read Only One Touch? If so, what did you think? If you haven't read it, are you going to? If you've read the series, which book is your favorite? Mine is still Manning's. I don't know if his story can be topped. It very well may stay as my number 1.

Happy Reading,

Buy Links:

Amazon: https://amzn.to/3chsakQ

Apple: https://apple.co/2RMZ1om

Nook: https://bit.ly/3hXFXyp

Kobo: https://bit.ly/3hPQETB

Meet Natasha Madison:

When her nose isn't buried in a book, or her fingers flying across a keyboard writing, she's in the kitchen creating gourmet meals. You can find her, in four inch heels no less, in the car chauffeuring kids, or possibly with her husband scheduling his business trips. It's a good thing her characters do what she says, because even her Labrador doesn't listen to her...

Connect with Natasha Madison:

Website: https://www.natashamadisonauthor.com

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AuthorNatashaMadison/ 

Twitter: https://twitter.com/natashamauthor 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/natashamauthor/?hl=en 

Facebook Reader Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1152112081478827/ 

Thank you to Wildfire Marketing and Natasha Madison for providing me with an advanced reader copy of Only One Touch. A positive review was not required, but if you know me, you know it was going to happen for this book. I truly adore the Only One series, as well as Something So and This is.

The Edge of Happiness {a review}

Now you may be thinking, Laur you've talked about The Edge of Happiness before! You're correct, I have talked about it in my February Anticipated Releases, in my January Top 5, and also in my most recent weekly wrap up. 

So why am I talking about it again? Well in those posts I just focused on the book description, and telling others to read the book! Here I can at least share a bit more about the book, as well as quotes I loved, while also doing my best to avoid spoiling the book. Plus when you find a book you love, you talk about it. Sometimes ad nauseam. Sorry, not sorry. 

First and foremost, we need to discuss the fact that The Edge of Happiness is the debut novel by Kristin Turnage, and it releases TODAY! Oh, and also, there are four more books coming in The Edge series.  You already know I'm giddy about that. I get to stay with these amazing characters! Now I just need to be patient as Kristin writes the books.

After reading the book, I feel that there should be a content warning for bits and pieces of the story. There are sensitive subjects related to mental illness that occur. So know that going into the story. If you want specifics, please send me a message on instagram or facebook.

Also, if you are an emotional person (like me), have tissues on hand. Just trust me on that. I mean I went through quite a few in the first five chapters, so yeah. 

If you've read the description of the book, then you know that Cassie is struggling with events that have happened in her life. We don't know the full story of what sent Cassie into this spiral, but she's hurting. And now, her Dad is sending her to stay with family that she doesn't know. At least it's better than the alternative that his Dad's girlfriend (Jennifer) was proposing. 

Upon arriving in Oaks North Carolina, Cassie is immediately introduced to her Aunt and Uncle. It's a bit overwhelming, but with her dad by her side it's a bit more manageable. Which is understandable because we're always most comfortable with those we know. We can let our shield down a little bit.

The hug scene with Aunt Katie, in chapter 2, warms my heart. And yes, it may have made me tear up a bit.

Her arms wrap around me and squeeze me in all the right places, a true mother's hug. I feel my muscles relax and my heart fill with warmth.

We all need that sort of hug from time to time. A true mom hug just feels different. It's as though you feel the love coming through. It's everything.

More introductions are made, and Cassie now knows her cousins Tyler and Josslyn. I also like how Josslyn and Cassie immediately bonded, and that Josslyn felt that she could be herself around her new cousin. It was an instant connection between the pair, and Cassie's circle started to take shape.

Josslyn convinces Cassie to run to the grocery store with her, and it is there that she meets Ryan (and Mac). There is an immediate attraction for Cassie and Ryan. Probably more so on Ryan's part though. More than that attraction though, there is an immediate connection. It's like two missing pieces finding each other.

That meeting, at the grocery store, set the stage for everything that happens next.

A few days after Cassie arrived in town, she finds herself at a birthday party for Mac. After a little time passes, all these new faces become a bit too much, and Cassie goes to find a quiet place. Ryan finds her, and asks "Are people too much sometimes?" He understands her. He sees her. 

This group that Cassie now has, is amazing. They've all connected in a deep way. Even though Cassie hasn't told them her past, they love and accept her for who she is. Cassie in turn repays that to them. Whether it is helping with a wedding, making their favorite foods, being a shoulder to cry on, etc, it's her way of giving of herself.

Another thing that I love his how Cassie wants to learn. She doesn't want anyone to do things for her. She wants to learn how to do it. Whether it is setting up a fishing pole, baiting the hook, working at the farm, working in her Aunt's store, whatever. Teach her, and she's good to go.

After a particularly rough day for Ryan, Cassie plans a surprise for him that she pulls off with the help of their friends. She doesn't want anything from Ryan. And this quote sums it up nicely.

"We all have shitty days. We all get in moods where we don't want to be around people, and just want to be left alone. But we also have those days where sometimes it's nice to know there's ice cream and spaghetti waiting for you. It's nice to know someone sees you struggling, and doesn't try to bombard you with questions."

Once that Ryan realizes she doesn't want anything from him (except for him to be happy), he relaxes a bit. They spend time just hanging out and watching movies.

Eventually Cassie finds herself going to the farm with Ryan. There she meets his parents (Caleb and Cora), and gets to help out around the place. While it's hard work, Cassie is enjoying it. When a storm rolls in, and the two are essentially suck in the barn, Ryan asks Cassie to "tell me your story". 

"It's not pretty."
"I don't want pretty. I want yours."

That reply of Ryan's had me nodding my head in agreement. If we want a true relationship with others, we have to be vulnerable and let people know where we are hurting. If we let them know our past, our struggles, together we have the option of overcoming it, of working through it. So yeah, that line was perfection.

You want to know what thought of Ryan's damn near broke my heart? It was this one:

I know that I'm going to be the one that's going to shatter her soul. It kills me but I have no other choice. She deserves more than the asshole I am.

Then later in chapter 28, he thinks this:

I need her to hate me because I can never hate her. No matter how hard I try. It's hard to hate the sun when it shines so beautifully. 

That last part happens after everything that's revealed in chapter 27. So just when Cassie needs Ryan the most he pulls this garbage. UGH. 

Things happen, and I want to smack Ryan. But I can understand why he did what he did.

The conversation between Jace and Cassie, in chapter 34, wrecked me. We got to hear just a snippet of Jace's story, and I can tell already that once he gets his turn, I will need a box of tissues. I'm positive that a couple tissues won't be enough.

"Everyone's broken, sweetheart. We all have our demons that we battle every day. The key to winning isn't about making them disappear. Winning is about knowing what you were and changing for what you want to be."

"Everyone feels fear when they are faced with what they can't forget. You're always going to feel this. It's never gonna go away. The memory will be with you forever. It doesn't matter how much you grow as a person. Your demons will always be there. Always knockin' on the door, but you have the choice if you open the door or not."

So a whole lot of more stuff happens, that I can't discuss because spoilers, and Jennifer appears in town ready to take Cassie home to her Dad. Jennifer drives her back to Trent and Kate's to grab her stuff, but there is a crew waiting to protect Cassie. Time passes and it is at Trent and Kate's house that Cassie and Ryan finally have it out. She gets all of it off her chest. Does she feel better? No. But she feels a bit lighter. She's been holding all of this in.

After some conversation, Cora tells Cassie that "even on the darkest days, we always look to the sky, Sunshine." That line triggered a memory for Cassie, and that opened up information that we didn't have prior. 

I literally gasped when everything came out. GASPED. (okay and teared up because emotions.)

Oh and after that, Ryan made me want to smack him again for his actions with Kayla. Stupid stupid man.

Prepare yourself friends. Because Cassie wrote Ryan a note, and left him a flash drive with videos to watch. My heart. OH MY HEART. I was prepared, but I wasn't. 

I want to talk about what happened in chapter 37, I really do. More so about how sneaky Cora is. Of course I also love that she wasn't the only one in on it. I love this group.

In chapter 38 we get to find out Ryan's story, and why he had everything bottled up. It was interesting to hear everything he's been through, and it helps me to understand him a bit better.

I want to tell you so much more, but spoilers. Just know that this book is worth reading. It's worth the emotional roller coaster that we go on. I hope you do read it. If you do, please come tell me your thoughts.

Please accept my apology for being long winded. It's who I am, and I just truly love this book. Thank you Give Me Books PR for providing me with an ARC in exchange for a review. Congrats Kristin Turnage on publishing your first book! I look forward to reading more of your books in the months and years to come.

Happy Reading my friends,

Amazon First Reads {February}

 🎶 Look at these books.

Aren't they neat.

Wouldn't you think my library's complete?

Wouldn't you think I'm the girl

The girl who has every book? 🎶

Sorry, I couldn't resist. It's what immediately came to mind while opening up the Amazon First Reads page. Speaking of Amazon First Reads, since it's a new month they have new offerings! Once again we have 9 books to choose from, but for the month of February we only get one selection. Which is fine. It just makes me appreciate January and July all the more. (those are the months we seem to get 2 selections.)

For those who are not familiar with the Amazon First Reads program, it is a perk of being an Amazon Prime Member. Each month the powers that be select eight or nine books, and offer them for free download. The majority of the time members can select one book, but every so often they allow us two. Now the hope is that those who download the books will then come back and leave a review. So if that sounds interesting to you, check it out. (I know this available in the continental US, but I am not certain about locations.)

Looking at the options, and I know which book I would automatically choose. It should surprise no one.

Naturally I'm going the rom-com route. 

Therefore my Amazon First Reads selection, for February, is The Wedding Game by Meghan Quinn. I'm telling you now, I will read The Wedding Game in February. I already have another Meghan Quinn book on my TBR courtesy of my TBR Game, so looks like I'll be reading two of her books this month. (or more, who knows!)

Reading the description, this sounds like an enemies to lovers story, and I am here for it. Cannot wait to see how the story goes, and what shenanigans the characters are involved in.

My second choice was Wings of Fury by Emily R King. This fantasy had me stopping in my tracks and making me rethink my original selection. It sounds so good, and if you like Greek mythology I think Wings of Fury will be a good selection for you. Wings of Fury is also looking like it will be a duology, and Crown of Cinders, the second book, will be released in October. 

The other books available for February are:

After Alice Fell by Kim Taylor Blakemore. This is a historical fiction that is set in New Hampshire back in 1865. I just read the blurb, and oooh it sounds like this historical has a bit of mystery/suspense potentially mixed in.

Black Boy Out Of Time by Hari Ziyad is one of the memoirs being offered. It sounds really powerful and moving. If you are looking for a coming of age story and/or an own voices book, grab this one! It's going on my wishlist, so that I can remember to go back and buy it come March 1st.

The Deadly Mystery of the Missing Diamonds by TE Kinsey is your book if you want a mystery! This book is set in London during 1925. 

Infinite by Brian Freeman is a psychological thriller! Oh my word, just reading the description has me on the edge of my seat. Um, I think this one is going on my wishlist also. Yep.

The Psychopath by Mary Turner Thomson is our other memoir for February. Let me tell you, reading the description, wow. Just wow. I cannot believe what she lived through. The Psychopath has me curious, and yes it's been added to my list.

The Speed of Light by Elissa Grossell Dickey is marketed as a contemporary fiction. Now for me, this book doesn't grab my attention. I do like the fact that it is set in South Dakota, and the fact that it is an own voices book, but that isn't enough for me to pick it up.

 

The last option is Agnes's Place by Marit Larsen. This children's picture book is illustrated by Jenny Løvlie. This book was first published in Norway, and has been translated by Kari Dickson. It sounds like a really cute story about friendship and how one person can have an impact on your life. I could see this being a popular school read. Especially during I Love to Read month.

Please tell me which book you chose! If you went with The Wedding Game, I'd love to discuss it with you. Maybe we could even buddy read it. If you selected another of the available books, please come back and let me know what you thought of the book. 

Happy Reading,

February Releases I'm Excited About

 

Ahh it's almost February! That means it's time to talk about new releases I'm excited about.

There are SO many books that I am looking forward to this month. Today I am going to share the 8 that have my complete attention. Oh and there is one POPULAR book on my list, so chances are you might be looking forward to it also.

I do know there is also a Nora Roberts book releasing, but I haven't looked into it yet. I don't know what it's about, or if it's a series or a standalone. It really shouldn't matter, but yet it does. Especially since I am series obsessed. I think I've only ever read one of her standalones, and if I remember correctly that was Montana Sky. That was also my intro book to Nora's writing. Ahh memories. 

What 8 books have grabbed my attention? Keep on reading.

Only One Night {a book review}

On Tuesday, January 5, Natasha Madison's latest book was released, and it was one that I had been eagerly anticipating! For those who may not know, Only One Night is the third book in her Only One hockey series. This series launched in September 2020, and is slated to wrap up in February 2021 with the release of Only One Touch. 

In Only One Night, we are finally getting Manning's story! We've heard bits and pieces of his situation, but did not know all of it. If you're anything like me, you were probably hoping Manning's story would have been the second book in the series. I think the wait was worth the wait. 

Here's the teaser from Amazon:

Manning

As captain of the Dallas Oilers, I was their leader on and off the ice. From the outside, it looked like I had the perfect life.

I didn’t.

I was married to a woman who refused to give me a divorce. All she wanted was the status title, and all I wanted was to be set free.

It was supposed to be just another event, except it took a turn I didn’t see coming.

Evelyn

Attending my best friend’s bachelorette party isn’t something I was looking forward to.

But it’s strange what a couple of glasses of wine will do.

It was one night, and I thought I would never see him again.

Especially not coming face-to-face with him and his wife while picking up my nephew from hockey practice.

All it takes is one kiss, one touch, one chance, and only one night.

Things we learned in the previous two books:

• Manning is Captain for the Dallas Oilers hockey team.
• He is a dad to a young child. 
• His marriage has been having issues for years.
• He feels stuck in his marriage to Murielle.
• Manning has a strong dislike of social media, and is very private.

In Only One Night we learned EVERYTHING! I mean that should be obvious since it's Manning's story. There is so much I want to say, but I can't because I don't want to ruin the story for you! What I can tell you, is that you'll get your Happily Ever After ending.

1) Manning. 

That should just be obvious by now. This man has captured my attention since the beginning. He is dedicated to his team. He loves his son, Jaxon. He is trying his best to live a life outside the bright lights of a professional athlete. 

 

2) The Dallas Oilers.

From the owner, to the players, they are more than just a team, they are a family. That  is everything. No matter who you are, support in your life is necessary. Surrounding yourself with people who you care for, who encourage you, who challenge you, who help you grow, that is what so many of us need.

3) How Evelyn perserveres

Her ex could have destroyed her emotionally. Yet here she is moving on with her life. She's left her life in Chicago, and has returned home. She has her own support structure in her family and friends. She is an excellent business woman, and she knows how to get things done. 

4) Evelyn & Manning's relationship

Do I even need to say anything else about this? I could also add in the relationship that Evelyn has with Jaxon. She takes his feelings into consideration. 

5) How the entire situation with Murielle played out.

 Oh how I want to explain further, but spoilers. 

 

This is hard for me. I truly enjoyed the story, after all I gave it 5 stars on Goodreads. So you'd think the book was flawless. That being said there are two things I didn't enjoy. The first should be obvious. (plus I mentioned it in my reading wrap up.)

1) Infidelity.

Listen, I get it, he's in a loveless marriage. He's asked for a divorce, and his wife refused. Yet at the same time, I can't look past cheating on your spouse. (and yes, we learn that this is happening with both parties, so it isn't one sided.) 

My second item isn't about the book itself, but rather the promotion of the book.

2) Book promo is referring to Manning as a single dad. 

He isn't. Not in the true sense of the word. Yes, he and Murielle are basically living separate lives while living in the same house. But that isn't the same as being a single dad. To me that means that either Mom is out of the picture due to death, giving up parental rights, abandonment, or the parents are not together due divorce, break up, etc. Manning and Murielle are not divorced. They are still married. Even if it is just in name alone. (obviously I have strong feelings about this, even though it probably doesn't matter to most.)

I loved this story, and Manning's story played out just about how I had expected it to. Although if I'm being honest, in the back of my mind I had wondered if it was going to end up being a second chance romance. I thought maybe just maybe Murielle would become a changed woman, and their marriage would improve. It clearly wasn't, and I am more than fine with that.  

Now I wait for February 9th, and the release of Only One Touch. We learned at the end of Only One Night that Nico has gotten married, but now we'll get more info on that. Also, I'm not ready for the series to end. My only hope is that Natasha Madison stays in Dallas for another 4 books! After all that's what she essentially did with the Something So and  This Is and series.  

Have you read any of Natasha Madison's books? If you're into sports romance, start with the Something So series, then head to her This Is series, and then get to know the players from Only One. It's worth it. 

Happy reading,

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