Monthly Wrap Up {May}

 

As you may know, I took the summer off from blogging. I am a mom with 4 kids, and they were home all day every day, and so having time to write just wasn't going to happen. Something had to give, and it was my hobby. 

Now though my kids are back in school, and I can play a little bit of catch up. So let's jump into my monthly wrap ups! I have FOUR to share with you. But will space those out over four days.

In the month of May, I read 15 books. I did the math and that equated to roughly 4,816 pages. That averages out to each book being about 321 pages. That's pretty good for me if I'm being honest.

I read 6 sports romances, a duet, 3 reverse harems, and so many other tropes/subgenres. This month I finished 3 series! What series were they?
 

Hockey Hotties by Piper Rayne
Sin by Aleatha Romig
Boneyard Kings by Becca Steele & C Lymari

In May, I had THREE 5 stars reads! I am so finicky when it comes giving a book 5 stars. Everything has to be just right for me to dole it out. What books met my criteria? 

Obsession
The Mate Games #1
K Loraine & Meg Anne

Rejection
The Mate Games #2
K Loraine & Meg Anne

Mine to Have
Southern Wedding #1
Natasha Madison

What was my favorite of the month? 

Obsession by Kim Loraine and Meg Anne stole the show for me. If you know me at all, you know I do not read a lot of paranormal romance. Yet there was something about this one that lured me in. I think it was the X-Men beginnings vibe that the description gave off. Then as I read the story, I found myself immersed in the world, and not wanting the story to be over. Sunday and her men were so fascinating, and the world building was top level. 

Here is the full list of books that I read in May 2022. All of my reviews are linked (whether they were on my blog or Goodreads).

A Greene Family Vacation by Piper Rayne

Hot Shot's Mistake by Gina Azzi

First Love by Xavier Neal

Obsession by Kim Loraine and Meg Anne
Ruthless Kingdom by Becca Steele and C Lymari

Wild About You by Rebecca Jenshak

Ryker by Samantha Lind

On the Edge by Julia Connors

Nothing Feels Better by Brit Benson

Last Love by Xavier Neal

Offsides with #55 by Piper Rayne

Mine to Have by Natasha Madison

Rejection by Kim Loraine and Meg Anne

Black Knight by Aleatha Romig

Jock Wanted by Kate Meader

I know May was a few months ago, but what was your favorite read for that month?

Laura

What Laura's Reading participates in the Amazon Affiliate program. As an Amazon Associate I earn a commission through purchases made using my links.

7 Must Read Small Town Romance Series

Small town romances are one of my favorite tropes. We are talking top 5 level favorites. In my mind, it just gives off the Hallmark movie vibes, and I am here for it. You know exactly what I’m talking about too. I’m positive of it. 

Now, would I ever live in a small town? I absolutely would! Well that is if I were to ever move from my current location. There is just something about a small town that appeals to me. From the potential community events, to the size of the town, to the gossip possibilities, it all calls to me. Especially the knowing of your neighbors, and that community feel. I may be an introvert with social anxiety, but the desire for a community is strong. I do blame Hallmark and Lifetime movies for creating this built up image in my head though.

If you are like me, and enjoy small town romances, then I have some book recommendations for you! I’ll tell you now, ALL of my recommendations are for series, so I apologize. At the same time, you’re welcome, and I hope you love the settings as much as I do. 

Let’s dive in.

Southern by Natasha Madison

This series is absolutely fabulous, and one of my favorites. There are 8 books in the series, and while you don’t HAVE  to read them in order, I highly suggest that you do. Location for the book series is obviously the south. I believe it is in Texas. The Southern series begins with Kallie and Jacob. They were high school sweethearts with their eyes set on the future. Until Prom night happens and their world shatters apart. What happened that night had Kallie fleeing town, and not looking back. Now it’s years later, and she’s returning to town with her bestie Olivia. Olivia’s gotten herself into a bit of a situation, and so they are laying low in Kallie’s hometown. Upon returning to town, Kallie spots Jacob immediately. She can’t turn away. This second chance romance will draw you in, and it also happens to perfectly set the stage for Casey and Olivia’s story. (which is book 2)

Should you pick up Southern Chance, book one in the series, go into it with an open mind. Ignore the reviews on Goodreads, and just jump in. I will say that chances are high that you won’t like Savannah. You’ll see her as problematic, and may blame her a bit for what goes down. Again, go in with an open mind, and trust that you’ll learn her full story in Southern Storm. What I can tell you is that you’ll fall for Kallie’s parents. I adore them, and want to be a member of the family.

The Edge by Kristin Turnage

This young adult/new adult series is going to grab hold of you, having you falling for the characters, and wanting to find out more about Oaks North Carolina.

The Edge of Happiness was Kristin's debut novel, and for me, it was a 5 star read. I loved Cassie and Ryan’s story. It was emotional, it was heartbreaking, it was full of healing and growth, and we witnessed Cassie come into this friendship group where they loved and accepted her unconditionally. She was a part of their group, of this found family, and it was everything she needed.

The characters in this series? I FREAKING LOVE THEM! None of them have had an easy go with things, but as we delve into their stories, it just has me falling even harder. Kristin Turnage has released 3 books in this series, and each one has been a 5 star read for me. Kristin has this way of creating relatable characters, building this world where I would love to visit, and her storytelling is fantastic. I can’t get enough, and this is one of those series that i will recommend over and over again. If you are an emotional reader, then have the tissues handy. You'll need them. 

The Baileys by Piper Rayne

As if I could leave the Bailey family off my list! 

Please. It was March 2020 when I discovered this series, as well as Piper Rayne, and I was immediately drawn in. IMMEDIATELY I tell you. Lake Starlight is this adorable town in Alaska that I just picture as the quintessential small town. From the downtown, to the community knowing everything that happens with the Baileys, to the chaos that ensues. I just loved it.

So here’s the thing, there are 9 kids in the Bailey family. When Austin (he’s the oldest) was about to pursue his dream of being a professional athlete, his parents died in an accident. This had him returning home to become guardian of his siblings. To keep this family together, he gave up his dreams. Over time those dreams evolved, and he was willing to do what he needed to keep his family together. In Lessons from a One Night Stand we see how Austin and Holly meet, how a workplace romance is set to begin, and how their relationship brings on a bit of healing. Plus we get to meet all of the Baileys. Oh and there’s Grandma Dori who is a hoot. I love her shenanigans.

There are about 12 books in this series. It’s a lot I know. But each person has their own story, and then there are also 3 novellas. The books are all quick reads, they all have HEAs, they are steamy, they are rom-coms, and I highly recommend them.

The Greene Family by Piper Rayne

Oh like I could mention one Alaska family and not the other! The Greene Family series is a spinoff of the Bailey’s, and honestly you’ll see the Bailey’s make the occasional appearance in the books. Especially Grandma Dori who is always with Ethel, and Ethel just so happens to be the Grandma to all these Greene children. The Greene family has a bit of The Brady Bunch feel to it when it comes to how the family was formed. This is a blended family (yours, mine, ours), and with that comes a bit of added drama, emotions, angst, as well as healing.

Similar to the Bailey’s, each sibling has their own story. For the most part. Rylan’s story, he’s the youngest, we don’t get quite yet. That will come eventually, but for now we just have the parents story, as well as each of the older “kids”. In this series, you’ll get a wide variety tropes so there’s a little something for everyone.

In regards to the town, the way I have Sunrise Bay pictured just creates this atmosphere of community building, community events, and ease of getting around. Now how I have it pictured may be completely different than the Piper and Rayne have it envisioned, but I’m perfectly content with the town square image going on in my head.

Go read this series, but definitely read it after the Baileys. Trust me on that. Plus you’ll understand Dori and Ethel (as well as Midge) a bit better. Oh those Grandmas!

Ryder Ranch by Anna Brooks

Cowboys + Small town = GIVE ME!!

Ryder Ranch is a 4 book series set in the small town of Warrenville Texas. The Ryder family is comprised of Dad (Mack), and his four kids (Wilder, Hunter, Maverick, and Molly). Together they work the ranch, and are a constant in each others lives. They’ve all been hurt emotionally since the moment the kids mom walked away. Her leaving caused so much heartache, grief, and relationship problems that they all are still working through.

Hoping for Hunter kicks off this series, and our meet cute involves a cow. Yes, you read that right. It was that a little tidbit of info that had my curiosity piqued. How does a cow cause our couple to meet? That just doesn’t make sense. BUT once you start reading, you’ll understand. These Ryder men are all quite alpha, and a bit afraid of falling in love. So to watch each one topple is spectacular. This series brings on a few different tropes, from age gap, to grumpy/sunshine, to second chance, to opposites attract, but all the stories take place in the small town of Warrenville. Dad and the boys books are all part of this series, where as Molly’s story is part of Guarding Her series. The story of her and Brooks journey to a happily ever after is called Break. I haven’t read that one yet, but it is on my list.

Ryker Ranch by Kim Loraine

Now don’t get confused with this series title. I know it is VERY close to the Anna Brooks series I just mentioned, but they are different. Obviously.

The Ryker family lives in Montana, and their whole world is the family ranch. It’s an amazing property, and it employs a lot of people.However since Dad died they’ve been struggling financially. Those financial woes could be a thing of the past though if this reality TV show takes off. Now Clint just needs to take the jump, and not fall for the producer of the show.

This family has etched itself into my heart. I am a bit obsessed with them, and I regret nothing. I have adopted Mama Ryker as my second mom, and I would like to go stay with her for a few weeks. Her and Mama Barnes from the Southern series cannot be beat. These two matriarchs are phenomenal. Hands down. I aspire to be like them. Which also means I need to work on my cooking skills.

Anyway, this series set in small town Montana may have you wanting to live in that world. There’s just this strong community feeling, and you know you’ll have support there for you whenever you need it. There are currently 4 books, plus a novella, released, as well as a couple of spin-off titles. Trope wise we are talking opposites attract, forbidden, workplace, fake relationship, friends to lovers, surprise pregnancy, second chance, and a few others sprinkled in. Kim Loraine has created this setting, this community, that just feels like home. Then there are the storylines that pull you in, and have you wanting more from this cast of characters.

Pine Cove by Rebecca Gannon

This four book series is one that I discovered through Amazon Prime Reading. I devoured Her Maine Attraction, and immediately purchased the series. There was just something with the setting, with this group of friends, and with the potential relationships that had my attention.

The first book alone lured me in because this woman decided to just move to this coastal community where she knew no one, had no job, and was creating this fresh start for herself. Her Maine Attraction was a steamy, insta-love story, and I could not put it down. It is also in this first book where we meet Ally’s friends, and slowly but surely they too make the decision to relocate to Pine Cove. All of the love stories are filled with emotion, conflict, healing, self discovery, and finding of community.

If you’re looking for a quick, easy read, then consider checking this one out. I will say that I prefer the original covers (shown above) versus the updated covers, but that's just me.

Mid Year Freak Out {book tag}

We are somehow half way through 2022. I'm not liking how quickly this year is flying by, and I would greatly appreciate it if time would slow down. You know except for when I am excited for a book to be released, as then I want it immediately.

Since it is halfway through the year, that means it is time for the Mid Year Freak Out book tag. If you've been around any bookish social media, then chances are you're familiar with this tag. I know I've noticed content on bookstagram, booktube, and book blogs. I haven't noticed it going around booktok, but it very well could be. This is my third year participating in the book tag. Here are the links for my 2020 and 2021 answers, if you'd like to read.


Thank you for taking time to read my mid year freakout. I greatly appreciate it.
Laura



Now let's get to the Q&A part of the mid year freakout!

Just a quick note...

Hi everyone!

It is summer break here in Minnesota, and that means my kids are home all day every day.

So what does that mean for "What Laura's Reading"? Well it means my posts will be few and far between. My focus will be on my kids, and so my time here will be limited.

Now don't think I won't be reading, because I will be! I will try my best to post on Instagram, which also shares to my Facebook. Of course if you really want to know what I'm reading, head to Goodreads!

I have a few review posts coming, as well as sharing my May recap. So stay tuned.

Happy Reading, and enjoy your summer!
Laura

 

Mine to Have by Natasha Madison {a review}

Mine to Have is a small town, second chance romance from Wall Street Journal and USA TODAY bestselling author Natasha Madison. This first book in the Southern Wedding series will grab your attention, steal your heart, and have you falling for these characters. 

First things first, it should come as no surprise that I have been counting down the days until Harlow and Travis's story was available. We first met Harlow in the Southern series, and I was hoping we would witness her find her person. Well she did. It's just happening in a spin off series. Now Harlow's story does start with a prequel called Mine to Kiss. It is essentially the origin story for Harlow and Travis's relationship. That story alone was fantastic. Well until the ending. But that ending just lead to the anticipation of this book.

I'm not going to recap the book. What I will tell you is that Harlow kept her promise. She was there for what was supposed to be the best day of Travis's life. She put aside the heartache to support this man she once loved.

FIVE STARS

Harlow and Travis are simply amazing. After having read their prequel, I was highly anticipating this book, and it did not disappoint.

Add in the fact that we got to see Casey, Olivia, and the grandparents, and I was in heaven. I loved getting to go back home, reconnect with the familiar faces, and then watch as they guided Harlow through the pain, the heartache, the uncertainty, so that she could find happiness.

Travis also had his family there to encourage and support him. They helped him grieve the loss of the relationship he ended, and cheered him on as he found someone new. They were prepared to love and accept his new partner.

This second chance romance had me laughing, swooning, and tearing up. The romance was fantastic, and the steam was just what I’ve come to expect from Natasha Madison.

Loved every moment of this book, and cannot wait for the next in the series. Now I will say I am bummed because I don't think we'll see any more of the original crew, but rather it will be college roommates, and Travis's sisters as the future main characters. So this last little moment with the family was much needed. (and appreciated)

If you love small town romances, second chance romances, or if you fell hard for the characters in the Southern series, then you need to go grab Mine to Have immediately. Travis and Harlow will pull you in immediately. 

Thank you for taking the time to read my fan girl thoughts. I'd love to hear your thoughts on the book.

Happy Reading,
Laura

Are you ready for The Southern Wedding Series?

Things are supposed to go smoothly on your wedding day.

Aren't they?

 

Harlow

I promised him I would be there for the best day of his life.

Not thinking I wouldn’t be the one standing next to him.

But here I was attending the love of my life’s wedding day.

I smiled when I saw him and pushed back the tears that wanted to come out.

This was his day and I was going to fulfill my promise.

Travis

It was supposed to be the best day of my life.

But the second I got up, things started to fall apart.

The kitchen just caught on fire.

Flowers were from a funeral.

My bride-to-be just had an allergic reaction leaving by ambulance.

Oh and my ex-girlfriend just walked into the church.

They say you have to see the signs when they are right in front of you.

Maybe she was just mine to have.

Grab Your Copy Here!

Add to your Goodreads TBR and/or your BookBub wishlist!

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...

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Thank you to Natasha Madison, and Wildfire Marketing Solutions, for providing me with an advanced review copy of Mine to Have.