On the Plus Side by Alison Bliss

REVIEWED BY Melinda Lazar 

On the Plus Side by Alison Bliss
My rating: 2 of 5 stars

On The Plus Side by Alison Bliss.


Valerie has always turned heads and has never been short on male attention and affection from all but the man she really wants. Her brothers best friend, Logan. Logan has finally returned home and has opened up his own bar/club in the hope that he'll manage to raise funds to get his mother out of trouble. When he finds Val's (not) to-do list, he does his best to ensure they tick everything off.

Unfortunately, there wasn't much that I enjoyed about this book. The characters lacked maturity and came across as annoying, especially the way they dealt with issues. I was expecting more humor and quality as I have with the previous books I have read from this author. I will say that I enjoyed the cameo appearances from characters in the previous book of the series. Both books in the series are standalones.

*arc received from NetGalley in exchange for honest review.

*Reviewed by Melinda for Joandisalovebooks Blog.

View all my reviews


https://www.amazon.com/review/R35A5ZKQFR5WGM/ref=pe_1098610_137716200_cm_rv_eml_rv0_rv

Drama Luau: A Nicky and Noah Mystery by Joe Cosentino

REVIEWED BY Becky Cox

Drama Luau: A Nicky and Noah Mystery by Joe Cosentino
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Nicky and Noah would make a great sitcom. I would watch faithfully. These two are so entertaining.
This is my first is the Nicky and Noah Mystery series. The whimsical story, even though dealing with some serious issues, is great for a rainy day read, or any day really that you need a good laugh.

I read the Cozzi Cove series by this author and while his humor is ever present, Nicky and Noah, Martin and Ruben crack me up. Nicky and Noah are off to Hawaii for their honeymoon with Martin and Ruben in tow and try to produce a luau show when the performers start disappearing.

Their tactics in finding clues and the crazy funny interactions between characters keeps the pages turning. For most of the book if I wasn't laughing I was grinning.

Thanks for an entertaining read Joe!

I was provided a copy for an honest review.

Reviewed by Becky for JoandIsaLoveBooks


View all my reviews

Amazon US

https://www.amazon.com/review/R1ISX4HVBZCA9U/ref=pe_1098610_137716200_cm_rv_eml_rv0_rv

Amazon UK

https://www.amazon.co.uk/review/R2N4JHVXMRR1SQ/ref=pe_1572281_66412651_cm_rv_eml_rv0_rv

Trouble by Avery Flynn

REVIEWED BY Jess

Trouble by Avery Flynn
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

TROUBLE by Avery Flynn is the first for me by this author. I'm always keen on reading anything new and I enjoy a quick fun read. I'm a sucker for second chances, and I adore a good sexy time situation. ;)

Leah and Drew have BEEN there and DONE that. A girl has been in love for years with a boy who can't see what she sees. For him, it's only for a good time, and then your classic walk out, run away scenario ensues and she's destroyed and he's none the wiser. A high school reunion is a perfect way for our two mains to reunite. Add is some crazy jewel heist and you've got yourself and twisted plot.

Though I found the story entertaining, and the writing flowed well, I just feel like It fell a little short for me. The tale is a little condensed and at 85% the story is over-which was a bit disappointing. There was some chemistry with Drew and Leah and the sex was kinda hot, and I also really liked the handcuffs!

That's not to say I didn't root for Drew and Leah, I really liked how Flynn was able to make their reunion funny and awkward and just perfect. I especially liked the part when Drew wore his uniform!!

I'd totally give Flynn another go. If you're info a quick, fast, sexy read, with very little angst, but filled with yummy sexual tension-then this is for you!

3.5 I Like Trouble Stars!

Received ARC in exchange for an honest review

*Reviewed by Jess for joandisalovebooks blog*



View all my reviews

Amazon.com:

https://www.amazon.com/gp/customer-reviews/RWXZ0OOAYJC9M/ref=cm_cr_arp_d_rvw_ttl?ie=UTF8&ASIN=B06XXG23CH

Elpida by C. Kennedy

REVIEWED BY Joanne Swinney 

Elpída by C. Kennedy
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

A life without hope would be sad indeed. A life without people like Michael Sattler would be the saddest of all.

This is the final instalment of the Elpida Series and is about Christy Castle and his battle to live a normal life after suffering incomprehensible abuse, but through this journey that I have taken with every beat of my heart, Michael has stole my breath away many times.

Author Cody Kennedy has a deep empathy for his characters that reaches me on every emotional level, the fear, the tears, the love, I feel it all while reading his words. I believe this to be the greatest gift that a writer could ever achieve. This whole series has had me gripped from the start and I am pleased to say that this book was just what I needed to lay this story to rest.

I think everyone had hoped especially Michael that after Christy’s rescue from the monstrous Yosef, honestly monstrous just doesn’t even cover this despicable excuse for a human, life would be back on track for them, but unfortunately it was far from over.

If you have read the previous two books in this series, Omorphi book one and Tharros book two you will know of a young boy called Thimi. Christy believed that Thimi was dead, since finding out that he is still alive, he wishes to look after Thimi. This is a huge ask for anyone, these are not normal circumstances. We aren’t talking just about feeding and clothing this young boy, he has suffered the worst abuse imaginable, in fact it’s unthinkable. The support he will need will use all of what Christy has and could potentially affect his own recovery.

Michael is feeling lonely since Thimi has shown up. Christy is completely worn out, and considering everything Michael has endured himself since starting a relationship with Christy certainly hasn’t been easy for him either. Michael is my hero, he is the best kind of person.. I hope that anyone finding themselves in bad situation has a Michael just waiting to be their rock.

Hope such a small word, but with so much meaning to someone like Christy. I hope that anyone suffering any form abuse seeks help. Not every person is evil, find that good person and tell them what is happening to you. No one should ever have to suffer at the hands of another.

Author Cody Kennedy you are one in a million. Thank you for sharing the Elpida Series. It will be one of the most memorable series to date.

View all my reviews

Bad Penny by Staci Hart

REVIEWED BY Monique Cashmere

Bad Penny by Staci Hart
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Yep, I'm hooked on this one. So much about it had me smiling and laughing, it was brilliant. One of my favourite bits, that there was an INXS song played at Penny's friends wedding. Love that band. Also, Penny's banter is very clever. I snorted when she said she was diddled by Diddle.

Penny is a free spirited woman that has a rule just like baseball, three strikes and your out. She doesn't want to be tied down and lives her life one day at a time. Bodi is the only guy she has wanted to break the rule for. She is A-dick-ted to him, but it is also a lot more. He just gets her and she is dicknotized. And he knows that she is like a wild pony with insecurities and uncertainties, but if he can just play it cool, he thinks he can win her over for good, and hopefully he wont be heartbroken at the end of it all.

This is a must read for all rom-com lovers and Staci Hart fans. Be warned, there is a lot of sex in the story, but that is what Penny is all about. And I feel that she goes from a girl who enjoys a good time, and there is nothing wrong with that, to a girl that now sees how much better it can be with intimacy.
I get the feeling that another of the girls at Tonic will be getting her own book, and I will be sitting here waiting to hear all about it.

**Reviewed for JoandIsaLoveBooksBlog.

View all my reviews

https://www.amazon.com/gp/review/R2E94R6IMNXDHR?ref_=glimp_1rv_cl

https://www.amazon.com.au/review/R1MXS79ZPG04KP/ref=cm_cr_dp_title?ie=UTF8&ASIN=B072R2ZVP5&channel=detail-glance&nodeID=2490359051&store=digital-text

https://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/customer-reviews/RWSF34C9BGDP9/ref=cm_cr_arp_d_rvw_ttl?ie=UTF8&ASIN=B072R2ZVP5

Sugar & Gold by Emma Scott

REVIEWED BY Micky Barnard

Sugar & Gold by Emma Scott
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

SUGAR & GOLD was such an unusual story that I was grabbed by the uniqueness very early on. This is light-touch PNR with an equal contemporary feel. Nik has a gift that is really a curse and his nomadic lifestyle helps him to just deal with existing. Nik rides into town and he and Fiona cross paths. Fiona was a mouse in some ways but eventually a fierceness emerged and despite her desire to just sink into the background, she had substance and I did like her very much. I wanted life to be fair to her and for her to be safe. Nik was a troubled guy but there was more to his and Fiona's connection that just chemistry and I must say the chemistry was electric. Nik was the character that immediately drew me in, I loved him.

The story was largely unpredictable and I enjoyed that sense of fog about what would happen. The emotions of the characters were so well written that I felt it all. The highs were great but the lows made me feel hopeless. Emma Scott can write these emotions so that the resonnance just vibrates through.

The connection of book one to book two is tenuous as the characters standalone, yet I must advise reading in order to fully enjoy Evan's place in the story. I enjoyed the small snapshot into Evan's life.

A copy of this book was provided by the publisher through netgalley in return for an honest review.

Reviewed for Jo&IsaLoveBooks Blog.

View all my reviews

https://www.amazon.com/review/R1J00SOS7CZ8YC/ref=cm_cr_rdp_perm?ie=UTF8&ASIN=B071H62TLL

Dirty Like Brody by Jaine Diamond

REVIEWED BY Becky Cox 

Dirty Like Brody by Jaine Diamond
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I have fallen in love with the Dirty series characters. Jessa and Brody's story was sooooo good.

Jessa has her secrets about why she left and those you will have to read and have her tell you herself. She is fighting her feelings for Brody and staying away was the easiest method but she has to come home for her brother's wedding.

"If you don't know me know," I told him, trying to keep my voice from wavering, "you never did."

Brody, manages Jessa's brothers band. He feels Jessa abandoned him six and half years ago and he is angry. Brooding angry bad boy with tattoos. Hello Mr. Hotness. He is so very angry. We all know how fine the line is between love and hate.

I really wanted to shake the both of them and lock them in a room until they figured this out.

A second chance romance with lots of angst. A great read and I look forward to the next book in this series.

"All I can do is stand here in front of you right now and ask you so see me, me, and not that girl who ran away!

I was gifted a copy for an honest review.

Reviewed by Becky for JoandIsaLoveBooks

View all my reviews

Amazon US

https://www.amazon.com/review/R3LNUZOXXKOYRP/ref=pe_1098610_137716200_cm_rv_eml_rv0_rv

Amazon UK

https://www.amazon.co.uk/review/R3Q5GQQ43OPIW2/ref=pe_1572281_66412651_cm_rv_eml_rv0_rv

Reliving Fate by Natasha Preston

REVIEWED BY Becky Cox 

Reliving Fate by Natasha Preston
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Reliving Fate has an interesting story line. Bella's sister is murdered and she finds her diary years later. She wants to find her sisters killer and sets out on a mission to do that. Bella is from a middle to upperclass family and her desire to find her sister's killer takes her to the wrong side of the tracks.

Rocco grew up on the poor side of town and doesn't really see a way out. He does what he has to in order to support himself. Rocco meets Bella one night when she is out trying to find clues. They start off pretty rocky with each other but warm up quickly.

Rocco, Bella and Rocco's friend Ellis work together trying to find out what happened. These three characters have a good dynamic.

I struggled a bit with Bella's inner dialogue. It was a bit distracting for me. Her family dynamic was somewhat confusing.

Overall it is an interesting story with a big twist at the end that I definitely did not see coming.

I was gifted a copy for an honest review.
3.5 Rating

Reviewed by Becky for JoandIsaLoveBooks


View all my reviews

Amazon US

https://www.amazon.com/review/R2MOBV44SFJYSH/ref=pe_1098610_137716200_cm_rv_eml_rv0_rv

Amazon UK

https://www.amazon.co.uk/review/R28EUVY0DAYKPU/ref=pe_1572281_66412651_cm_rv_eml_rv0_rv

Where Good Girls Go To Die by Holly Renee

REVIEWED BY Becky Cox 

Where Good Girls Go To Die by Holly Renee
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Where Good Girls Go to Die caught me with the title and the cover. This is my first Holly Renee book.

I loved the characters and the premise. Liv is an interesting character. I wish I knew more of what went on in the four years she went missing other that the end result. There were vague mentions of her years gone, but I am nosey and I want to know more.

Parker did what he could to move on after Liv left. He thought he had it figured out until they found her and brought her home. I was surprised that she gave in so easily.

This is told in alternating points of view and flashbacks.

The big reveal as to why Liv ran just didn't have enough umphf. Yes it was upsetting but I needed a little more something.

Overall a great read and I will check out more from this author. Like I said I loved the characters and there are definitely more stories to be told in this group of friends.

Reviewed by Becky for JoandIsaLoveBooks


View all my reviews

https://www.amazon.com/review/R36AS58W253CUC/ref=pe_1098610_137716200_cm_rv_eml_rv0_rv

https://www.amazon.co.uk/review/R8JFKR2XYS1AW/ref=pe_1572281_66412651_cm_rv_eml_rv0_rv

The Knocked up Plan by Lauren Blakely

REVIEWED BY Monique Cashmere 

The Knocked up Plan by Lauren Blakely
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Without a doubt, this is Lauren Blakely's best book to date. I would give it 6 stars if I could. It held me captive and I could not put it down. I knew it would though, being a Lauren Blakely book, it was fait accompli.

Nicole Powers is a talk back radio announcer and writer of all things relating to woman and sex. She is the guru Manhattan and beyond tune into for advice. To make her world complete, she would love a little bundle of joy. All she needs is some baby batter. She is hoping that might be made available by her co worker at the station, Ryder Lockhart. He has all the qualities that she has been looking for, especially the non commitment part.

The Consummate Wingman, aka Ryder, has been burnt in a past relationship and is not looking for love. He needs to up his game at work, and not let his dark mood affect his career. He feels the deal he strikes up with Nicole can only be worthwhile for both of them. He just didn't know it would be so gratifying.

There was so much I loved about this book. It flowed brilliantly from each stage they endured. It felt natural and realistic. I held my breath at some parts, was guttered with others. I laughed and sniffled and smiled the whole way through. It wasn't all about pleasing the woman, it was a balance of both of them achieving happiness. I think this is so important in being partners in life. You will not only love Ryder as your next BBF, because he is so yummily, but will cherish Nicole just as much. Highly recommend this dual POV, friends to lovers book.

*I received a copy for an honest review.
**Reviewed for JoandIsaLoveBooksBlog.

View all my reviews

https://www.amazon.com/gp/review/R1AS3UH8UUXP0G?ref_=glimp_1rv_cl

https://www.amazon.com.au/review/RPM62JC17RYV8/ref=cm_cr_dp_title?ie=UTF8&ASIN=B072WKCTCF&channel=detail-glance&nodeID=2490359051&store=digital-text

https://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/customer-reviews/R1LP04ID31VY4K/ref=cm_cr_arp_d_rvw_ttl?ie=UTF8&ASIN=B072WKCTCF

Thursday Afternoon by Beth Rinyu

REVIEWED BY Monique Cashmere 

Thursday Afternoon by Beth Rinyu
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Have you ever had a favourite part of the week you most look forward to? This was the case for Bree and Thursday afternoons when she met up with the gorgeous English gentleman, Simon. Bree had a hard exterior due to her circumstances but he was slowly melting that away.

The thing you need to know about a Beth Rinyu book, they are angsty, and she does it well. Monkey wrenches are throw in all directions to keep you on your toes and for added suspense. Sometimes love is more about being selfless and walking away to benefit the other, than staying and causing upheaval. Bree was a true testament to that.

There were some really sweet characters in this book. Bree was a strong woman that deep down just wanted to be loved unconditionally, like us all. Simon was a sexy single dad that had a hot accent to boot. His greatest asset was his faithfulness and supportive nature. His little boy Jack was adorable. And the one that linked them all together, Sister Hannah. She became a great bestie for Bree. I loved the epilogue and am looking forward to seeing the novella for "Hannah".

*I received a copy for an honest review.
**Reviewed for JoandIsaLoveBooksBlog.

View all my reviews

https://www.amazon.com/gp/review/R3ER2N6JZ8LC4P?ref_=glimp_1rv_cl

https://www.amazon.com.au/review/R19Y2PEYPELM0X/ref=cm_cr_dp_title?ie=UTF8&ASIN=B071NT843S&channel=detail-glance&nodeID=2490359051&store=digital-text

https://www.amazon.co.uk/review/R3N07BD469CK0J/ref=cm_cr_dp_title?ie=UTF8&ASIN=B071NT843S&channel=detail-glance&nodeID=341677031&store=digital-text

Road To Ruin by Callie Hart

REVIEWED BY Becky Cox 

Road to Ruin by Callie Hart
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Road to Ruin was fantastic. It's dark, angsty and so well written. I flipped the page and it was the end of part one and I was mad. Well, I still kinda am, I didn't want it to end. Ready for the next installment Callie and Jonny if you two could oblige please.

Tommy is all things bad boy with a soft spot for Nikita. Nikita is a female bada** with a great sense of self. Tommy was in deep in the New Orleans underground and got himself out and away. But his sister finds herself in a situation and he has to come home to do what he can to help her.

Nikita has a secret or two we haven't found out yet. She is a therapist at the New Orleans prison. She deals with criminals everyday and does what she can to help them ad that leads her down a road she wasn't intending on going.

Loved both of these characters and this story and looking forward to the next book. There was a few little blips in the book but they did nothing to dissuade from the story. If you like them dark and angsty I highly recommend Road to Ruin.

I was provided a copy for an honest review.

Reviewed by Becky for JoandIsaLoveBooks


View all my reviews

Amazon UK

https://www.amazon.co.uk/review/RTHFNWN4QHSBR/ref=pe_1572281_66412651_cm_rv_eml_rv0_rv

Amazon US

https://www.amazon.com/review/RWNZ3G0LH9RHJ/ref=pe_1098610_137716200_cm_rv_eml_rv0_rv

Writing Mr. Right by T.K. Leigh

REVIEWED BY Becky Cox

Writing Mr. Right by T.K. Leigh
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I needed Mr. Right, or I need a Mr. Right. Either way the book was so very entertaining. Molly is independent. She is funny, blunt and made me laugh throughout the book. She mortifies her brother Drew on a daily basis. I love the closeness of their brother sister relationship.

Molly is a romance author that writes under a pen name to protect the innocent or just because she doesn' want anyone tAo know she writes naughty romance novels. She is having a bit of a writers' block and needs some inspiration.

Dr. Noah McAllister is the treating physician for Molly's dad who suffers from alheizmers. He is pretty perfect. Hence my needing a Mr. Right. I also needed a well written clever story. I have struggled recently to find something to peak my interest and truly enjoy and T.K. Leigh helped me out and wrote me an awesome romcom. I mean, I am sure she wrote it for me and just shared it with the rest of you.

Highly recommend this one, and wondering if I can hang out with Molly sometime. I think we would have a laugh or two.

I was gifted a copy for an honest review.

Reviewed by Becky for JoandIsaLoveBooks

View all my reviews

Amazon US

https://www.amazon.com/review/R1HI3VOU7090GP/ref=pe_1098610_137716200_cm_rv_eml_rv0_rv

Amazon UK

https://www.amazon.co.uk/review/R31O719KKQPAIW/ref=pe_1572281_66412651_cm_rv_eml_rv0_rv

The Knocked up Plan by Lauren Blakely

REVIEWED BY Melinda Lazar 

The Knocked up Plan by Lauren Blakely
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

The Knocked Up Plan by Lauren Blakely.

I don't know where to even begin with this review. This was absolutely everything I've come to expect from a Blakely book and then some. We have Nicole, a mating and dating columnist and Ryder, a relationship consultant: they are coworkers at Hanky Panky Love - a more apt radio station name I've yet to come across. They are fabulous friends and while Nicole thinks Ryder is sex on legs and Ryder thinks Nicole has the sexiest legs, they've never crossed the ping pong line.

Until.....

Nicole is very happily single and has never been in love. However, she does want children of her own and is looking at IVF options, and by options I mean sperm donors. Unfortunately, none of the donors she's considering meet all of her criteria. She has a lightbulb moment and wonders if Ryder would be willing to provide his specimen for purposes of reproduction. It's all very black and white, clinical, and straightforward until Ryder is presented with the proposal. While Ryder enjoys most aspects of his job, his show has been more about sex and not so much about intimacy. He has been given the option to shape up or ship out of Hanky Panky Love. In order to turn the tone of the show around, he's to take a woman on ten dates and woo her, reporting back to the masses on intimacy and feelings. The two make a new agreement to enjoy the dates together and work on Nicole's desire for a baby at the same time.

I have to say that I enjoyed their dates almost as much as they did. I also love that (and anyone who follows Blakely on social media will know this) the authors love for animals comes across on the pages. The pets are like well loved family members with a personality of their own and frankly, I think it's the sweetest thing ever.

Blakely had me in tears of laughter and tears of heartache from the very first page. I have never felt so invested in a relationship and with two characters - both individually and as a couple - before. Maybe I could relate to certain aspects and that made it all the more satisfying. Whatever the reason, I feel like the romance and the fun and the steaminess has catapulted The Knocked Up Plan to my newest favorite Blakely RomCom. You can absolutely read this as a standalone although characters that we've met in previous books do pop in for a quick cameo.

*arc received in exchange for honest review.

**Reviewed by Melinda for Joandisalovebooks Blog.


View all my reviews

https://www.amazon.com/review/R3QUUB6XETLP6S/ref=pe_1098610_137716200_cm_rv_eml_rv0_rv

https://www.amazon.co.uk/review/R5BWAFA2MYAM8/ref=pe_1572281_66412651_cm_rv_eml_rv0_rv

Angelina's Secret by Diane Merrill Wigginton

REVIEWED BY Becky Cox

Angelina's Secret by Diane Merill Wigginton
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Angelina's Secret is an historic romance with a bit of paranormal. Set in the 1700's when being different was not welcome.

Angelina is an independent determined young woman, who while on an adventure with her Uncle is captured by pirates. A sexy pirate. Pirate captains just do it for me regardless.

But all is not what it seems.

Angelina's Secret has some great twist and lots of intrigue. Toss in some hot romance and you have a winner.

Jude is a sexy Frenchman that goes to great lengths to get to spend time with Angelina. He is crazy about her but she is one stubborn headstrong girl.

I enjoyed this adventure and think you will also. I would recommend to anyone who loves historic romances with some paranormal activity. (wink)

I was gifted a copy for an honest review.

Reviewed by Becky for JoandIsaLoveBooks


View all my reviews

Amazon US

https://www.amazon.com/review/R4YMLTKVJT8KL/ref=pe_1098610_137716200_cm_rv_eml_rv0_rv

Amazon UK

https://www.amazon.co.uk/review/RY3DBKP57UFJT/ref=pe_1572281_66412651_cm_rv_eml_rv0_rv

Isabella's Heart by Diane Merrill Wigginton

REVIEWED BY Becky Cox

Isabella's Heart by Diane Merrill Wigginton
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I love a good historic romance and Isabella's Heart was that in spades. Wigginton threw in the added spice of a paranormal flare and it worked so well. Isabella's Heart has more focus on the special abilities of Isabella's family than did her mothers book, Angelina's Secret.

The second in the Jeweled Dagger Series, it is my favorite so far. Suspense, adventure and love all in the 1700's, it is wonderful.

Isabella is on a mission to find her missing brother. To assist her in doing so, her grandfather enlist the help of Captain Aiden Townsend. Sparks fly.

Isabella is confident and opinionated. Not very common for the time and I love her.

Captain Townsend is handsome and roguish but has a sweet caring side as well.

I truly enjoyed Isabella's Heart and look forward to more in the Jeweled Dagger Series or whatever else is in Ms. Wigginton's imagination.

Reviewed by Becky for JoandIsaLoveBooks


View all my reviews

Amazon US

https://www.amazon.com/review/R3KQWPD10HB0OG/ref=pe_1098610_137716200_cm_rv_eml_rv0_rv

Amazon UK

https://www.amazon.co.uk/review/R3SUOGQV15ZZD8/ref=pe_1572281_66412651_cm_rv_eml_rv0_rv

Broken by April Wilson Narrated by Alice Parker

REVIEWED BY Micky Barnard

Broken by April Wilson
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This is my first listen/read by April Wilson and I have to say this book was something of a gem. Although it is third in the series, it stands alone perfectly well. What immediately drew me into the story was the idea of a rather small but super-trained and strong, female bodyguard. Lia had prickles that screamed 'do not touch' but she was some woman and the true definition of a strong heroine.

Lia is body-guarding for a music sensation. This is not my favourite kind of hero but surprisingly, Jonah blew my preconceptions out of the water, with humility and a desire to be out of the spotlight and away from social media manipulations. In some ways Jonah was a beta kind of hero but he was likeable nonetheless.

The backstories to these two were interesting and Lia's in particular was compelling and somewhat tragic. I loved the story, the pace and writing. The chemistry was well written and tangible too.

The narration was single POV, single narration and Alice Parker was perfect for this. She narrated the male dialogue really well that I just slipped into the story seamlessly.

A copy of this audiobook was provided by the author in return for an honest review.

Reviewed for Jo&IsaLoveBooks Blog.

View all my reviews

http://www.audible.co.uk/listener/A2OKSANI1041IT?ref_=a_lib_mst_tnaft_

Stay by Sarina Bowen

REVIEWED BY Melinda Lazar

Stay by Sarina Bowen
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Stay by Sarina Bowen and Elle Kennedy

I'd been eagerly awaiting the next book in this duo's WAGs series and Stay did not disappoint. Matthew Eriksson is the 'sniper' for Toronto's hockey team and is left heartbroken and jaded after his divorce. His ex-wife took his twin daughters and micromanages every moment they spend with him. He's a rare species of (fictional) male that doesn't turn to manwhoring the minute his wife is out of the picture and I wholly respected him for that. Matt uses a service called Fetch - essentially a virtual assistant provider and when he voices his concerns over his recent dog-walker, the co-owner of Fetch herself walks the dog. Evidently, Matt likes what he sees on the doggy-cam and makes his moves.

Hailey is the co-owner of Fetch, a business she owns with her ex-husband. She gets the feeling that the man she's communicating with online is her crush, the one and only Matt Eriksson but she can't be sure until he leaves her a gift on one of her dog-walking sessions. She's not your typical bitter divorcee but she is heartbroken. Perhaps more at losing her best friend than losing her husband.

Matt and Hailey had a lot to work through and I enjoyed their journey to the end. Matt's ex-wife left invisible scars and he really had to work hard to get through it. It was almost as though he was waiting for the other shoe to drop with Hailey but it never did. She was the perfect woman for him.

The only problem was me reading Good Boy before getting stuck into Stay and expecting that same level of humor. But really, how can one expect that same humor when the main character isn't Blake Riley? I loved the presence of Wesmie and Jess and of course, Blakey himself (I freaking love that guy!) - it's like visiting family again which is always lovely. This book can easily be read as a standalone, however reading Good Boy first would only enhance your enjoyment of Stay and if you really want to go all out, you should go and read Him and Us first!

*arc received in exchange for honest review.

**Reviewed by Melinda for Joandisalovebooks Blog.

View all my reviews

https://www.amazon.com/review/R2U8CI4P68N3A/ref=pe_1098610_137716200_cm_rv_eml_rv0_rv

Scored by Marquita Valentine

REVIEWED BY Melinda Lazar 

Scored by Marquita Valentine
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Scored by Marquita Valentine
4-4.5*

It's been such a long time since I read this authors work and now that I've read Scored, it's served as a reminder of why I used to devour her books and stalk for new releases religiously. This book had me engrossed from the prologue and had me fully invested in the couple.

Dallas is the tight-end for the Raleigh Renegades and is your typical playboy. He meets quirky librarian, Paige when he goes to scope out the potential space for a fundraiser that's close to his heart. Paige, as it happens, is in handcuffs and immediately catches the keen eye of Dallas. However! Not only is Paige uninterested in Dallas because he's a player in every sense of the word, she's also been warned off him (and all players, really) by her sister who is also publicist for a few members of the Renegades, including Dallas.

What did I like about this book? Pretty much everything! The characters were so very likable; I loved the strong sense of family on Dallas' part and I enjoy reading about strong women with good friends behind them. There was some truly laugh out loud moments and some seriously hot sexy-times. I enjoyed Paige's personality and really loved Dallas with his dirty one-liners and his gorgeous heart! What did I dislike? This is very minor but I don't care for characters who let siblings have too much control over their lives and decisions. I get that it adds an element of forbidden when there's someone who doesn't approve of a relationship and while this wasn't exactly a matter of control, I was a tad annoyed that Paige was making decisions based on her sister. However, I liked Paige so much that I got over it easily enough.

I saw that this is a standalone: this is so unacceptable!!! I really hope that Valentine eventually writes the stories of some of the characters we met in this book because to say I'm eager for more is an understatement.

*arc received in exchange for honest review.

**Reviewed by Melinda for Joandisalovebooks Blog.

View all my reviews


https://www.amazon.com/review/RUG5BGDT1GZYX/ref=pe_1098610_137716200_cm_rv_eml_rv0_rv

The Post-it Note Affair by Justine Avery

REVIEWED BY Micky Barnard 

The Post-it Note Affair: by Justine Avery
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

3.5 stars

This is a rather short novella, but still a story in full. The context is a marriage that has dulled and the heroine Emily begins to find post-it notes in her bag that are complimentary, sweet and flirtatious. There's a new guy at the office and he's definitely flirtatious. That said, I didn't trust Josh-the-new-guy, there was just something a little too much about him. Stephen, Emily's husband was difficult to get the measure of but he seemed a little passive and fully in the rut with Emily.

The outcome of the novella wasn't wholly unexpected but it was an entertaining little read and it did deliver on a completed story, even if I did want more insight into Stephen. This novella was easy to get into and I would consider it a quick, light read.

A copy of this book was provided by the author through netgalley in return for an honest review.

Reviewed for Jo&IsaLoveBooks Blog.

View all my reviews

https://www.amazon.com/review/R3IJYRD2I1HTS9/ref=cm_cr_rdp_perm?ie=UTF8&ASIN=B015LLTSIM

Tycoon by Katy Evans

REVIEWED BY Micky Barnard 

Tycoon by Katy Evans
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I have finished this book with the most severe case of Aaric love, that I don't quite know what to do with myself! I enjoyed TYCOON from cover to cover, not one moment disagreeable, whether it was an up or a down. Books about tycoons immediately conjure a genre I'm not enamoured by but this tycoon was the most normal man in many ways. Aaric and Bryn were really after a second chance of connecting after being high school friends that were attracted to one another. I found Aaric to be charismatic and full of integrity. I know some might disagree with the integrity statement because of some relationship circumstances, but I found nothing I could critique if I mapped the events to real life.

Bryn isn't the strongest heroine but she's not weak either. She had drive and passion for her business and I just liked her with flaws, vulnerabilities and spark. The side characters were background but complimentary to story development and I'm pretty excited about the next couple.

The story of TYCOON is what really rocked my boat, I loved everything about it. It was light, hot and addicting, the kind of read that has me longing for my kindle when I'm doing adult things. Katy Evans doesn't disappoint me, not because of what she's written before but because she yet again delivered something I didn't know I needed with a fresh, absorbing narrative. I could certainly read more of Aaric and Bryn and anyone else she chooses to write. I know I will re-read or listen to the audio of this book again.

A copy of this book was provided by the author in return for an honest review.

Reviewed for Jo&IsaLoveBooks Blog.

View all my reviews


https://www.amazon.com/review/R2A8MDUW74UL0C/ref=cm_cr_rdp_perm?ie=UTF8&ASIN=B0713RM5YX

The Foxe & the Hound by R.S. Grey

REVIEWED BY Monique Cashmere 

The Foxe & the Hound by R.S. Grey
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

4.5*'s

Again, this Rom-Com was a hoot to read. Madeleine Thatcher is the sister of Lucas from Anything You Can Do. And her best friend is his now wife, Daisy. These two girls together are hysterical. I love them. They are there for each other in a time of need, but also know how to have some fun too.

Madeleine (this happens to be my mum's name!) is a smart and intelligent woman that is having a bit of a struggle with life. She thought she would add to the drama by getting a shelter dog to keep her company. Even though they told her the puppy was a handful, he was too adorable to let go. So Mouse came home with her. Being a responsible dog owner, she has to take Mouse to the vet for his puppy shots, and meets the new guy in town, Adam Foxe.

Adam has left Chicago behind and everything bad that happened there. He is in Hamilton to be with his family and start a fresh. One thing he is not ready for is the hot mess that is Madeleine! There is plenty of tension between these two, sexual tension that is. A little bit of miscommunication and a whole lot of banter will have you laughing along with the story. I really enjoyed the flow of this book and the way they came together. I especially love Mr Boggs! But Adam is the true hero and I loved everything about him.

If you are a fan of R.S. Grey, you are going to love this book. If it is your first time reading her, again, you are going to love it. She is one of those authors that just does Rom-Coms so well.


*I received a copy for an honest review.
**Reviewed for JoandIsaLoveBooksBlog.

View all my reviews

HOT COP by Laurelin Paige

REVIEWED BY Tina Shobe 

Hot Cop by Laurelin Paige
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

First of all I want to say this book actually made me blush. I don't think I can recall when a book actually did that.

The sex in this book took off right from the start and continued. I'm glad it slowed down a little bit as I felt I was going to hyperventilate (seriously hot)

Livia Ward just had her 29th birthday and she's feeling almost desperate for a baby. Doesn't want a mate. A chance meeting with Policeman Chase Ward makes her feel a contract between the two of them is ideal. Man-whore Chase gets unlimited sex with Livia with no strings attached and Livia gets her baby.

The more time they spend together the more they open up and allow the other one in. I love how Chase inserts himself into Livia's baby plans. Their shopping trip is hilarious. Mr. Hotty also proved that he was there to support her even in times she didn't realize she needed the support.

I fell more and more in love with Chase as the story progressed. Livia is one very lucky lady. These two are ideal together. Their bantering is awesome.

I was either always sweating from the hotness in this book or laughing with a few 'aaaaawwww' moments thrown in.

This is a wonderfully written book that I thoroughly enjoyed reading and highly recommend others to read.


View all my reviews

Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/review/R2JJGOITV65F5G/ref=cm_cr_rdp_perm?ie=UTF8&ASIN=B01N6YE99C

Way Down Deep by Charlotte Stein

REVIEWED BY Micky Barnard

Way Down Deep by Charlotte Stein
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

Conceptually, this was clever and the blurb just dragged me into requesting to read and review. As a fan of Cara McKenna, I wanted to love this book but the result was like. The concept and context are two damaged strangers who begin a tentative texting friendship following a circumstantial finding of one another's numbers. There is much masked for quite some time in this read: who are the characters, what gender are they, will they ever meet?

There was power in the writing of this book, the writing was mainly strong, after all, there was only dialogue in this book, no thoughts, introspection or narrative that wasn't dialogue. I was utterly captured by the man and his boy story, for me, that was what I loved most about this story. In fact, I wanted more of the man and boy. There was some significant chemistry between the two texting and this grew in a tangible way that I believed the connection and growth of affection.

The first quarter of the book I found to be slow going but I did become invested and I enjoyed the final quarter the most.

A copy of this book was provided by the publisher through netgalley in return for an honest review.

Reviewed for Jo&IsaLoveBooks Blog.

View all my reviews

https://www.amazon.com/review/R2V3OALX8OSY09/ref=cm_cr_rdp_perm?ie=UTF8&ASIN=B071F2WWG6