A Little Too Late by Staci Hart

REVIEWED BY Monique Cashmere 

A Little Too Late by Staci Hart
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

4.5 *’s.

This standalone, contemporary romance novel, with the most gorgeous cover, is told in dual POV. I love being able to witness what each of the main characters are thinking. It helps to understand their decisions and worries. Both Charlie and Hannah had adversity to overcome. Being together should have been easy and a thrilling journey, but with the baggage that is still dragging behind them, makes for huge obstacles.

Charlie had me wanting to give him a major hug and also to yell at him to stand up and be counted! He was going through the motions when he was married, but after that he was just existing. My heart hurt for him so badly. It was kind of refreshing to see these types of emotions from a hero, instead of the overused macho caveman mentality. And his children were adorable! Nearly as sweet as Hannah’s oliebollens. I so loved Hannah! I couldn’t help but go and look at the recipes for the baked goods she was teasing us with. I probably should have known a few since my mum was Dutch. Her sweet demeanor was fetching and I admired her class and grace.

I’m always happy when I see a new Staci Hart book released. Whether they are her rom-coms or straight up romance novels, she can make me feel that I am right there beside the characters experiencing it all together.


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

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Hangry Girl by Lily Kate

REVIEWED BY Tina Shobe 

Hangry Girl by Lily Kate
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Brad has a tendency to overthink things. An example of this is when he wins a bet with Lexi for a date and it takes him weeks to finalize the plans because he wants to make it perfect.

These two drive you so crazy that they are so lovable. Their banter is so realistic that it makes you feel like you are right there witnessing it.

I loved how these two didn't just jump into bed giving it to their attraction. It gives them the time to work on past and present issues so when they do give into that attraction not only does it sizzle it much more meaningful.

The humor in this book just drew me that much more into the story and I feel made me connect more with the characters. I also love that this story was told by both Lexi and Brad. I feel it gave more depth to their characters.

This was a fun read that I absolutely loved.


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Hard Wood by Lauren Blakely

REVIEWED BY Jess

Hard Wood by Lauren Blakely
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

If you’re looking for a super light, zero angst, fluffy, mood enhancing love story, then HARD WOOD is just the book for you!

Patrick and Mia have been dancing in circles around each other for months. Stolen glances, private yearnings and dirty thoughts have plagued both their minds but neither one of them is willing to let the cat out of the bag. Literally and figuratively. They were your typical “perfect couple” in every way. Career goals, animal rights, love for the outdoors, honesty and openness (once the cat got out of the bag!) and truly committed to the other. Maybe a little predictable? Yes, safe, definitely-but I still enjoyed the read because I’m always completely entertained with anything Blakey writes.

I’m always excited to see how Blakely will transition the Heroines POV into the story! This time, it’s through Patrick’s cat, Zeus. Seriously cool cat, dude. A completely bizarre and totally odd choice, but no less worthy! I loved having him in the story and it provided it with the wit and humility it needed in contrast to all of its bubbly perfection.

I enjoyed this quick read from one of my favourite authors very much! Life can get heavy at times and sometimes you need the fairy tale to get you through your day! Nothing wrong with a positive and uplifting romance to put a smile on your face and Patrick and Mia did just that-they make you believe!

ARC received in exchange for an honest review.

*Reviewed by Jess for joandisalovebooks blog*

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The Assassin-Shifters Book 7-10 by Sandrine Gasq-Dion

REVIEWED BY Joanne Swinney 

The Assassin-Shifters Books 7-10 by Sandrine Gasq-Dion
My rating: 5 of 5 stars


The Generals Lovers, book 7

James Pruitt has had the hots for Derek Jacobs for what seems like forever. Derek is immune to James charms or is he? When Derek finally wakes up and smells the cheese is it all to late?. Will James still want to be with Derek after so much time has passed?

Derek is constantly letting James. At times it has been hard to read. When you know two people were meant to be, but there’s absolutely nothing you can do about it unless you’re a Skull Blaster of course.

Russian Prey, book 8

Keegan Ripley has been in love with the notorious Vince Markov for years. Oh! He can deny being in love all he wants, but from reading his story I can see love. What I found surprising though is Vince is not your typical sexy male. He’s dangerous and kills with ever showing any remorse. It kind of makes him a monster in the eyes of others.

Vince can’t believe Keegan is getting to him. The man that doesn’t love or feel is started to feel something. What he is unsure, but Keegan is definitely getting under his skin.

This is such an exciting read. Vince is a strong and dominate character. It’s like waiting for a bomb to go off. I found myself holding my breath. The anticipation almost killed me.

Keegan deserves to get his man after everything he has been through and Vince can definitely protect him from anyone. The man is a killing machine. By the way he only kills the bad guys, he’s not homicidal, much.

An Ignited Passion, book 9

Bless Wyatt Quinton he has known since he was a little boy he had a mate. Everyone around him was telling him different. Did they do the right thing denying him? Who knows. They did what they thought was best for the young pup.

Preston Dalton has always know that Wyatt was his mate, but because Wyatt was so young he had to walk away until he was older, much, much older.

It has nearly killed preston over the years to not reach out and touch his mate. And now that he is close enough to touch he wants Wyatt to love him not because of the mating bond. Holy moly. It is a very intense time for Preston. Wyatt is so confused he is questioning everything.

Reflash, book 10

Tucker Storm and Austin Jacobson were meant to be together according to the Gods. They were fated mates, but how does that work when one of the is straight? The same goes for Wesley Foster and Kurt Maguire. Have they really messed up this time. Maybe the Gods have eventually lost their touch in pairing up this handsome group of men.

I’ll take the unattached, yep all of them. Skull Blasters, FBI, CIA, Police Officers, Firemen, werewolves. What’s not to want.

Every story is a must read. Once you start this series you just can’t stop. You will know who is meant to be with who. Well, sometimes. This Author likes to keep us guessing, but it’s reading how it all turns out for the best that makes these books super exciting. The journeys and adventures they face together is beyond thrilling.

Tucker, Austin and Wesley and Kurt have wonderful stories to share.

I’m a true Skull Blaster fan. Hook, line and sinker.

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Damaged! by J.S. Scott

REVIEWED BY Joanne Swinney 

Damaged! by J.S. Scott
My rating: 5 of 5 stars



Sigh! Dane Walker. What a beautiful soul. He has so much going for him, but because of his scars he believes himself to be unworthy of any true love. Such a sad way to see yourself. He has isolated himself on his very own island, Walker Cay.

Dane deserves the best kind of love. He deserves someone to love him unconditionally. Have someone that sees beyond any scars that may be visible to the eye. And he also needs someone who can see the deep scars inside, the hurt he’s been suffering. Someone needs to make Dane Walker whole again.

Kenzie Jordan needs a break in the worst way. To read what this woman has been through is just unimaginable. When she is offered a job away from everything and everyone it’s to good to be true, but she takes it.

Trace and Sebastian Walker think their brother Dane needs a personal assistant. Sending Kenzie to their brother is a good move or is it? Kenzie is excited and nervous at the same time. She knows all about the great artist, Dane Walker but to finally meet him and work for him is a dream come true. But dreams don’t come true for Kenzie. Something will go wrong it always does.

Dane and Kenzie are kindred spirits. I so wanted them to become close. Both scared of what other was thinking and feeling. Fear was the biggest obstacled they both needed to get over. Although at first Dane was dead against having a personal assistant, Kenzie has become invaluable to him.

Kenzie finds it so hard to trust, although she has opened up to Dane a little. She should really tell him the whole truth. Dane knows Kenzie is keeping something from him, but he’ll wait. He’s a patient man.

Watching Dane and Kenzie’s love blossom is some kind of beautiful. It melts my heart to know they have found one another. There was never been two more people in this world that are more deserving of having a happy ever after.

Just when things are going great something really bad happens. Maybe Kenzie was right and she will never be free from her pass. It’s an intense time for the Walker brothers and their wives, but most of all it’s gut wrenching for Dane.

If you love all things romance then this is the book for you. Author J.S Scott never disappoints.

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Denver's Calling by J.J. Harper

REVIEWED BY Joanne Swinney 

Denver's Calling by J.J. Harper
My rating: 5 of 5 stars


5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Mouth-wateringly Majestic and Magnificent

Denver’s calling certainly will call out to all M/M lovers, or should I say M/M/M.
This review actually has me tongue tied. I am speaking out loud and just can’t get the words out my mouth.

Denver Sinclair to his friends and Doctor Sinclair to his patients has been through a very emotional time. Break-ups are never easy, but some can hurt in the worst way. Especially if you have been betrayed for a long length of time and have been blinded by work.

Denver leaves his old life behind. Needing to escape the gossip, stares and friends he thought he had. He’s running and as fast as he can. Who could blame him? Not I.

He is such a beautiful man inside and out. God, he deserves love, affection and to be happy. Denver isn’t just a man, he saves lives. He’s a great surgeon. He’s talented in so many ways. He just hasn’t had the right partner to encourage him to grow and be himself.

Kester Dereham is an old school friend of Denver’s. He now owns in a bar, quite successfully. Denver remembers Kes fondly, but is taken back when he sees him openly kissing his boyfriend, East Brookman. The same man that is currently working for his father. Denver finds both of them very attractive, it’s hard not stare and think if only.

Kes and East are two of the most beautiful men in Cooper’s Ridge. They have been together for years and are very happy. Something is missing from their relationship. They will always be happy with each other, but when they both see Denver they want him, BADLY! God, someone put a hose on me.

You know, I couldn’t put this book down. Thank God I was reading on my Kindle because a paperback would have been in shreds. I was holding it way to tight. The sex scenes in this story blew the top off my head. Cold shower for Mrs Swinney.

So, yeah. Denver, Kes and East decide to share a bed, not just a bed though. They want to share their lives with each other. Become a family. Is it possible for three men to be in a relationship? How about being accepted as a threesome in a loving relationship by the community? Personally I think the haters are going to hate. And the people who actually don’t give a flying ……., will carry on with their own business.

I could say so much about this story. It was hot, loving, dramatic at times with certain events. It ticked all my boxes and I am sure it will tick yours too.

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Cuffed by K.Bromberg

REVIEWED BY Tina Shobe 

Cuffed by K. Bromberg
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Grant Malone and Emmerson Reeves were childhood friends. Emmerson moves away when they are in 3rd grade.

You know from the beginning that there is an underlining reason as to why Emmerson moved. It kept me intrigued trying to discover what it was and when I found out I was heartsick for her.

The more Grant and Emmerson reconnect the more she remembers and relives her past which is so hard for her. I just wanted to reach into the book and give her a big hug.

Grant carries a lot of guilt from breaking his childhood promise to Emmerson. He has to learn to let that go or he's going to push her away.

I just want to say that Grant became my hero when he went into the bank and dealt with that sleazy loan officer.

This is a book that just kept getting better the more you read. When I finished the last sentence my thought was 'what a great book'. The author did an amazing job on a very tough topic. It was heartfelt and very emotional.

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NAILED IT By Cindi Madsen

REVIEWED BY TINA SHOBE 

Nailed It by Cindi Madsen
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Ivy Clarke is kind of coasting through life having not really found what she wants to do with her life. She finds out that the only 'home' she knew growing up is for sale. She gets in over her head attempting to fix up the house to flip it. Her best friend, Savannah, send over her brother, Jackson to help her out.

These two are awesome together. Their banter is too great! Jackson knows just what to do and say to get Ivy fired up. You just know that underneath all that banter that there is chemistry. It's explosive!

Ivy doesn't do relationships. Her mother has fallen in and out of love with an ongoing string of men all through Ivy's life. Ivy has always been the grown up in their relationship. Always having to pick up the pieces when another one of her mother's relationships fails. Jackson does his best to show Ivy that love is real and that they can have a future together. Ivy doesn't trust love and ends up hurting Jackson in the process.

Her #1 rule now is-Love fully, no matter what. It's totally worth it. She now has prove it to Jackson and hope it's not too late.

I loved that my emotions were all over the place with this book. I felt sorry for Ivy for her lack of a childhood. I felt sorrow for Jackson when he was hurt by Ivy. I laughed several times during their banter. I absolutely loved this book! It is so well written that it grabbed my interest right from the start and kept me hooked all the way till the end.

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Dark Promises by Winter Renshaw

REVIEWED BY Becky Cox

Dark Promises by Winter Renshaw
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Keir Montgomery, son of the President, political aspirations and a playboy. He needs to clean up his act to get ready for his announcement as a candidate. He is gorgeous and smooth talking.

Rowan, daughter of a wealthy politically connected family, wants nothing to do with it. Just out of a relationship that broke her heart with a politician. Another one is the last thing on her mind. She just wants a bit of fun to help mend her broken heart.

Keir and Rowan are delightful together. The alternating POV's is most entertaining as they plot and scheme against each other.

I did not read the first book in this series but it took nothing away from this one. The characters are strong and well developed and I enjoyed them very much.

I recommend this book for all romance readers. Winter is a clever storyteller and I guarantee you will enjoy.

I received a copy in exchange for an honest review.

Reviewed by Becky for JoandIsaLoveBooks


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Cuffed by K. Bromberg

REVIEWED BY Melinda Lazar 

Cuffed by K. Bromberg
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Cuffed by K. Bromberg

Cuffed is the first book in Bromberg's Everyday Heroes series which will eventually give us the stories of three brothers... and what an amazing family they are!

This is the story of Officer Grant Malone -who definitely has a hero complex- and his childhood best friend, Emerson who he hasn't seen since they were eight years old and he betrayed her trust. Many years later, Grant hasn't forgotten his Emmy and when they bump into each by chance, he wants to rekindle the friendship while she wants less than nothing to do with him and even less to do with the past. Naturally, the chemistry between them can't be denied so they agree to a fling with firm rules in place. But when does that ever work out the way it should?!

I loved this book! I loved Grant, loved his family and their dynamics, loved his need to be the hero at whatever cost to himself. I think he was a beautiful person inside and out and I certainly wouldn't complain if I was cuffed to him! Now Emerson. She frustrated me so goddamn much throughout this book. I wanted to shake some sense into her, make her see what was right in front of her. And yet. Because she was such a strong woman, it was easy for me to forget what she'd been through and the huge impact it had on her life and relationships. And when I reminded myself of the facts, I loved her because of her sheer strength.

This book was definitely not what I'd normally choose to read. It was definitely more of an emotional read rather than my preferred RomComs however, I loved every single bit of it. I laughed, I cried (a LOT), I howled at the injustices and cruelties. I devoured every word of this book at times with a heavy heart but nonetheless with hope. Cuffed did take me longer than I would have liked to finish and in the interested of full disclosure, it's likely because I kept flicking back to perv on the cover. Isn't he gorgeous??

I think this is my favorite Bromberg book to-date and it's one I wholeheartedly recommend. I'm looking forward to more Malone books in the future.

Head up. Wings out.

*arc received in exchange for honest review.

**Reviewed by Melinda for Joandisalovebooks Blog.




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Alpha Mail by Brenda Rothert

REVIEWED BY Melinda Lazar 

Alpha Mail by Brenda Rothert
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Alpha Mail by Brenda Rothert

Sienna is owner and founder of Alpha Mail, a business that came to fruition after a series of bad dates. Alpha Mail allows women across the country access to messages, emails, phone calls from brooding, sexy alpha men. The business and obtaining potential investors is so important to Sienna as it provides her with tremendous opportunities to help her best friend. All is going swimmingly until she receives an email from RoughRider16 - a self-proclaimed alpha male who wants to help Sienna see the behavior and actions of a true alpha - and one who will never reveal his true identity.

I really enjoyed this book and have a special kind of appreciation for the characters. It's hard to be specific without giving much away, but our hero really is just a beautiful man. Kind, thoughtful, sexy, a little bit dirty. But the star of this book is Sienna. She's a strong, beautiful woman, runs her own company, has the HUGEST heart of any female character I can think of right now. Such a selfless person and an amazing friend.

I really loved the acknowledgements at the end of the book particularly where Rothert states that there are several different kinds of love in this book. She hit the nail on the head with that and all those different kinds of love played out beautifully. I did read this book with a kind of lump in my throat and as much as I'd love Rothert to write a story for other characters we meet in Alpha Mail, I'm also worried she's going to rip out my heart through my throat and smash it to pieces. This is the first book I've read from this author but can safely say that it won't be my last.

*arc received in exchange for honest review.

**Reviewed by Melinda for Joandisalovebooks Blog.

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Hard Wood by Lauren Blakely

REVIEWED BY Melinda Lazar

Hard Wood by Lauren Blakely
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Hard Wood by Lauren Blakely

This book and series deserve all the stars!

This book was everything I've come and know and expect from the lovely Lauren Blakely AND MORE. Patrick and Mia have been circling around each other for a while now and finally it's their turn to find their HEA. Why have they waited so long? Well, distance was the biggest issue as one lives in New York and one lives in San Francisco. Further to that, while distance was certainly a factor for them, there was also the minor detail of Patrick being Mia's brothers best friend. You may remember one of my (ahem, many) boyfriends, Max? Yeah, him.

As Chase and Max's sister, we've gotten to know bits of Mia: she's loyal, fun, a pocket-rocket! She's gorgeous and Patrick sees it! Patrick is our successful, cat-loving outdoorsman who is, in his own words, a unicorn. And no, he's not just talking about the length of his horn (suuuuuuure, he's not). No really, he's ready to settle down. He wants to be with The One. And that one is Mia.

Oh God. This book. So sweet, so lovely, such a gorgeous progression of friendship. I love that the romantic relationship between Patrick and Mia was built on a solid friendship with all the respect and love thrown in aaaaall the way through to the end. Hard Wood is the final book in the Big Rock series - all of which can be read as standalones. So being the last book, reading it was kind of bittersweet for me. The characters in these books have become like friends - no, family! - to me and to say goodbye to them leaves me feeling more than a little sad. All the characters we've come to know and love throughout the series make an appearance in Hard Wood and Blakely comes a full-circle, tying up all loose ends and finishing off a series beautifully.

*arc received in exchange for honest review.

**Reviewed by Melinda for Joandisalovebooks Blog.

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KEVIN & CHELSEA by Marie Force

REVIEWED BY Tina Shobe 

Kevin & Chelsea by Marie Force
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This is book 18 in the Gansett Island Series. These new additions to the series are focusing focusing on Big Mac's Brother's and their family's. His brother Kevin has come to the island to regroup after his 31 year marriage ends. He meets Chelsea. Through his relationship with Chelsea he realizes that his marriage has been dying for years. His wife puts a pause on their divorce and is wanting to talk reconciliation. Chelsea also brings up a topic that he never thought he'd even be considering at his age. He now he has some heavy thinking and decision making to do.

I absolutely love the Gansett Island Series. It's a series that I re-read. Some series lose a person's interest but that isn't the case with this series. I love that in each book it feels like we are getting another chapter in the McCarty's lives. It almost like book 1 has never ended. We get to revisit/catch up with each of the McCarty's and those close to them. I love the McCarty's, their banter, their pranks, their deep love of family.

Even though this is part of a series I feel you can read this as a stand alone. The author has a great way of writing that introduces you to the characters without taking away from the continuation of the story. From my standpoint I get a deeper appreciation for each book as I've read the whole series and always look forward to catching up with the family and their friends.

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Hard Wood by Lauren Blakely

REVIEWED BY Monique Cashmere

Hard Wood by Lauren Blakely
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This is the second book I’ve read in a row that has been the last of a series. Even though I am saddened that these characters have been put to bed, so to speak, I know that any book I pick up from this author will have the same feel about it. They are full of fun banter, quick wit and loads of emotion.

Mia is the sister of Chase and Max, and has found her four leaf clover when she met Max’s friend Patrick. Distance just wasn’t on their side as she lives on the west coast and him in Manhattan. Whenever they spend time together it’s, dare I say it - normal. And that’s a good thing, because Mia has seen some crazies out there, and she wants a loyal, dependable guy that’s normal. Patrick was more than that for me, he was so swoon worthy and more so with his sidekick Zeus. I am not into hiking, but for Patrick I would lace up some boots and trek along with him!

This too is a standalone like the other books but with each you are introduced to more characters that relate in some way. This end book has most of them popping in for one last hooray, and I loved that. I also love a good epilogue and it definitely foot the bill. I know I will be re reading these beauties again soon, and possibly in audio. Without a doubt, I would recommend this book to any rom-com fan.

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

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Crave: Part Two by E.K. Blair

REVIEWED BY Becky Cox 

Crave: Part Two by E.K. Blair
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This is the conclusion of Adaline and Kason's story. It is very emotional. You must read Crave Part One before you read this book.

Adaline suffered a traumatic event at the end of book one. Part Two starts out with her dealing, or not dealing, with the after effects. She makes some rash decisions that I didn't necessarily understand. Everyone deals with trauma differently and that is how she dealt with it and I don't have to agree.

She suffers for a long time with panic attacks and being afraid of the dark and it effects her mentally and physically. Her dear friend Micah is there to pick up the pieces of her shattered existence and help mend her.

It's been years, Guppy," he says with a smirk. "I'm sure he's over it and has moved on."

She hasn't seen Kason in years. An emergency happens and she has to go home. Things get interesting quickly.

"Which path am I meant to follow? Or is there a third path? One I've yet to navigate?

In true EK Blair fashion Crave is very emotional and dark at times. She gives us an unusual twist on the personality of Kason. It was disturbing at times but eye opening as well to a disorder I knew nothing about.

Crave is more in the genre/realm of the Fading series and I enjoyed both books.

I would recommend this book to any adult readers that like a somewhat dark unusual romance. It does have an HEA.

Reviewed by Becky for JoandIsaLoveBooks

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Born For You by J.T. Geissinger

REVIEWED BY Micky Barnard 

Burn for You by J.T. Geissinger
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

4.5 stars

I’ve heard of JT Geissenger in my book feeds but now I realise what I’ve been missing out by not reading her work. BURN FOR YOU delighted my literary senses from start to finish. The two main characters were both hugely likeable in their reality, completely lacking perfection, both stubborn and fun to observe clashing. This book is a piece of wonderful hate to love with great story substance.

Jackson is like a grisly bear, a pathetic communicator, preferring to shout or grunt. He met his match in Bianca because he didn’t intimidate her. Bianca was a newly successful chef-owner of her restaurant in New Orleans.

”The man gave the term resting bitch face a whole new meaning.”

The context of restaurateur with food and bourbon gave depth and something I could enjoy identifying with. These two characters clash with anger and chemistry, the burn was slow but steady, building to the most delicious heat.

When this book comes to love, there were so many lines that had me highlighting the text. I thought the way JT Geissinger wrote the connections of the heart was refreshing and made me pause, there were no cliches, only tangible feeling. I have a book buddy that has read an advanced copy too so I highlighted and screenshotted through the last 40%.

“I always thought love was a pair of shackles, but I was wrong. Love was the opened door of a cage.”

I am a new and enthusiastic fan of this author, I’m grateful to my buddy for the recommendation and I hope I can, in turn, lead a few friends in this direction. I’m excited at the back catalogue I have to peruse for Geissinger and I’m placing this particular book on my favourites shelf. Slainte!

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

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Bountiful by Sarina Bowen

REVIEWED BY Melinda Lazar 

Bountiful by Sarina Bowen
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Bountiful by Sarina Bowen

I absolutely adore Bowen's writing and this series in particular. While the True North series can lean bit towards the angsty side, Bountiful has a lighter feel to it and I'm pretty sure it might be a favorite of mine.

Bountiful is the story of sexy bartender, Zara and her month-long 'tryst' from two years ago, Dave. They met when Dave was visiting Vermont (and seriously, every time I read a book from this series, it reignites my desire to visit!) and knowing they only had a short amount of time together, they agreed to not share anything of themselves apart from the physical. Two years later, Dave comes back and immediately seeks out Zara only to discover that Congrats! He's a daddy! What follows is Dave and Zara (and Nicole's!) journey to each other: to learn, to grow, and yes, to fall in love.

I thought this was a really beautiful story where the characters grew and evolved separately and together. I admired the hell out of Zara. She was strong and feisty and wasn't afraid to work hard to get what she wanted. I love that she didn't lay blame anywhere and I love that she respected Dave enough to allow him space and to give him choices. Dave. Sweet, merciful Jesus! I am in lovvvve! He plays hockey for the Brooklyn Bruisers, he's a redhead, he's a little bit dirty, and he is the most gorgeous fictional daddy to Nicole. I absolutely loved every single thing about him. Again, he knew when to push and when to give space to Zara and that was so important for her to have that. Honestly, I just fell further and further in love every time he interacted with his little girl. Swoon!

I think Bountiful is the perfect addition to the True North family and I really enjoyed the glimpses into the lives of previous (and future) characters. I just can't wait for more!

*arc received in exchange for honest review.

**Reviewed by Melinda for Joandisalovebooks Blog.

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Jordan's Shadow by T.R. Cupak

REVIEWED BY Ann Meemken 

Jordan's Shadow by T.R. Cupak
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This was my response after finishing Jordan's Shadow!

"You are evil woman just evil. Yes, I just finished Jordan's Shadow. The ending gutted me. I could not put it down and finished it in one sitting."

It is a heartbreaking story. It is a story of survival with everything that Jordan has been through. She is strong willed, caring and determined. Hunter is the light in her darkness. Hunter is strong, loving and protective. The ending through me for a loop. I was sobbing mess but it was perfect ending for this emotional story.

My favorite quote from this book is "You breathe, I breathe."

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Customer Review

Bountiful by Sarina Bowen

REVIEWED BY Jess

Bountiful by Sarina Bowen
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Goodness, Gracious, I am in LOVE with these two!!!

BOUNTIFUL, by Sarina Bowen was a lovely, romantic tale of two people who were there for a romp in the hay, but in reality were there for the long haul, and I am smitten with Dave Beringer and his down to earth philosophy on life.

This book was refreshing and light-and considering the context and the trope, you would think we would be getting into the heavy stuff, but Bowen is a master at her craft and constructed a well thought out story, with all the feels as well as the goods to back it up.

Being a professional Hockey Player and having summers off must be glorious. Vacationing in Vermont is even better. Good food, yummy beer and lovely ladies. Well, one in particular. Zara. She works at a local pub and has just been cast aside by another man when Dave and her engage in a month long tryst that really takes over their summer activities. Despite it being just a "casual" thing, both Dave and Zara cannot get the other out of their minds. The summer they spent together, under the stars was anything but casual.

Fast forward two years later. Zara has a 15 month old baby girl named Nicole. And yepppppersss, you guessed it, she belongs to Dave. When out of the blue Dave comes back to town on another summer holiday, he finds out that he is in fact, a baby daddy. Zara did her best looking for him after he left town years earlier, but she never knew his last name. I was worried how he was going to take it. The news about him being a father, but in fine fashion, Bowen created a MAN. A man who takes care of the people in his life, who don't freak out (even though he has reason to) and he mans-up and takes care of his girl. Well, girls. There has always been something special between our two mains, and you really get to see it when Dave steps up and Zara lets him in. There is no drama, unless you count Zara's over bearing brothers, which is just plain funny. But with Zara and Dave, they are mature, they know what is important, and even though you would assume that this relationship could never work, they came together as a team, cohesively, and like a well oiled machine. That's not to say there weren't any set-backs, because there always is, but they conquered it together and it was amazing!

One of the things I loved most about this book was the support systems that both Dave and Zara had. Dave had his awesome teammates who he vacationed with and who were a sounding board for him during the initial shock of finding out he as a Dad. For Zara, it was her amazing family. Her wonderful brothers and mother-as well as the whole Shipley clan! (Which I loved hearing about BTW)

At first I didn't know if this would work, but Bowen made it soar and I loved it so much and I wish I could go back and read it again.

There is a lot of potential for more books in this series. We were introduced to a new character that I think may make an appearance in the next installment of the True North Series, and I cannot wait to see what happens next.

ARC received in exchange for an honest review.

**reviewed by Jess for joandisalovebooks blog**

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Hard Wood by Lauren Blakely

REVIEWED BY Micky Barnard 

Hard Wood by Lauren Blakely
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

This was a low angst, cute tale of newish friends becoming more. There was Blakely’s usual flair for humour shining through but this was a book I was less keen on. The story didn’t overly excite me and I admit to being affected not by insta-connection but by insta-commitment; it was too much to be tangible for me. However, this is easy listening and you can’t help but chuckle as you listen.

Patrick was an all round nice guy and I liked that he was insecure and felt on the back foot. Mia didn’t wow me as a character and I felt an aloofness from her. There’s a secondary star and that was the feline. This cat had a POV a few times in the book and don’t let it put you off, it was hilarious.

The narration was single POV from the male perspective and I do enjoy SebYo on occasion so it worked.

Whilst I wasn’t as keen on Hard Wood as some of the other male POV audios, I know I’ll probably like the next Lauren Blakely offering because I normally do.

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

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Bourbon Sins by Meghan Quinn

REVIEWED BY Monique Cashmere

Bourbon Sins by Meghan Quinn
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I need a drink!!! Bourbon anyone?!!

It is a little different to what we are used to by Meghan Quinn, this one still has the same wit and sass and humor, but it is also quite erotic. It is not a new series, but a make over from her Jett Girl books, new covers and some added editing. I hadn't read this one before, so I went in with no expectations and found that I really enjoyed learning more about Jett and Goldie.

Both these characters have had heartbreak in one form or another. But what happens when you match up the guy that doesn't do relationships to the girl that wants nothing more than to be loved and cherished again, a hot mess! Goldie, or Lo to the girls and men at the Club, is brassy and bold with a heart of gold. She joins the Jett Girls and is instantly captivated by Jett Colby the owner. He is debonair, sophisticated, suave and educated. He too was mesmerised from the moment he first saw Goldie, but it will take more than the Bourbon Room to keep her living under his roof.

I also loved the secondary characters. The other girls from the Club were just as entertaining and audacious with their own individual talents. Although I was mostly intrigued by Kace, now he has a great story I want to know more about. He can be the hardest task master, but also the sweetest consoler. This is the first book in the series, and it is not so much of a cliff hanger, but you will need and want to go on to the other books to get the full effect of this luscious series. I feel they are only going to get more compelling with each book.

**Reviewed by Monique for JoandIsaLoveBooksBlog.

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Touched by Lilly Wilde

REVIEWED BY Becky Cox 

Touched by Lilly Wilde
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Just as I am getting to like where this relationship is going and Aria and Aiden seem to be getting their baggage all in the same cart; yep, a cliffy. I am chomping at the bit for the next book.

I think I liked Touched more than Untouched in that I got more insight into Aiden and could relate to him a bit more. He wasn't just the stiff, alpha male brainiac, albeit a hot brainiac, who showed a soft side occasionally. Aiden revealed more of his true self to Aria.

His family, always an obstacle continues to make trouble. Several other issues that were touched upon in the first book (see what I did there) were brought out in the open in this installment.

Sometimes, men are just near sighted and don't see the big picture. Sometimes I just want to reach in the book and shake them and scream, "Can't you see where this is headed?!" But alas, I can't and I have to wait for them to figure it out on their own.

Aria is a strong female character that rarely shows her weaknesses.

The end of this one took me a bit by surprise and am anxious to see where Lilly takes in Touched By Him.

I would recommend this to adult readers who like angst, alpha males and hot sex scenes.

I was gifted a copy for an honest review.

Reviewed by Becky for JoandIsaLoveBooks



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Liar by Stephanie St. Klaire

REVIEWED BY Tina Shobe 

Liar by Stephanie St. Klaire
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Liar is a wonderfully written book. We have a little bit of mystery and little bit of romance, great characters and best of all we have some humor.

Cori basically is living life as a facade. From her transportation, her name to her knock off designer clothes/shoes. (I have lived her life. I can't tell you how many 'knock off's' I have found had garage sales and consignment shops).

She runs into her ex-fiance, Phillip and her former friend/college roommate, Winnie at an event/fund raiser. Feeling a little desperate she grabs hold of a stranger walking by and acts like he's her fiance. The hilarity of the moment is that the stranger plays along.

The stranger, Dominick (Nick) Blackthorne turns out to be her boss, that she has never met. There are several interesting moments in this book while these two play at being a couple.

Before long you're trying to figure out if they are 'playing' or if this turning into a reality they both want. I love the way that Nick basically is playing Prince Charming and has granted every wish a lady could want or even hope for.

I love the way Stephanie writes she has a way of pulling the reader into the book that make you feel like you are part of the story. I actually felt like I was one of the bystanders when Cori give Winnie doses of reality.

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Maverick by Karina Halle

REVIEWED BY Becky Cox 

Maverick by Karina Halle
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This is my first book in this series. Not having read the first book did not effect my enjoyment of this one.

The characters are well developed and enjoyable. I related easily to them and cheered them on. The angst in the book is relatively minor even though it is very serious at times. There is more light hearted banter, flirting and hot sex scenes then angst.

Riley is a great character and I love her resilience. She has had a tough go of it but perseveres. Mav is dedicated to his job. He struggles with some old issues that he works to overcome throughout the story. Did I mention he is a hottie?

Mav and Riley are a great couple. There banter and sexual tension burn this story up. I love the setting in the snowy mountain resort town. Their jobs made the story interesting and kept it flowing.

I would highly recommend this one for a quick light romance with just a little angst.

I was gifted a copy for an honest review.

Reviewed by Becky for JoandIsaLoveBooks

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