Ryan's Bed by TIJAN

REVIEWED BY 

Micky Barnard 

Ryan's Bed by Tijan
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

It’s been a while since I’ve crossed paths with a Tijan book and I’m glad to have renewed the relationship. RYAN’S BED was a refreshing read in terms of content (view spoiler)[ warning to those who don’t want to read about suicide, grief and to a lesser extent, eating disorders (hide spoiler)] and I would classsify this as mature YA.

The blurb makes it clear what the context of this book will be and I must admit, I expected the story to revolve around the title and the romance. I was surprised and pleased to read that this was more about getting inside the mind of a late teen’s grief. The grief element of not just Mackenzie but also her family, was written very well. The romance between Ryan and Mackenzie was strong, intriguing and believable, born initially out of convenience. All things surprised me about the story direction.

The mean girls and the drama alongside it was my least favourite element of the story but I can see how it led to the character development of Mackenzie. The parents were an unfathomable cluster of neglect and I struggled with their reactions to life afterwards. Robbie was a character I would have liked to have known more about.

Now, I don’t want to say too much but Tijan is a genius on that last page, I got an inkling the page before, but I nearly dropped my lunch and my mouth just stayed hanging open. Kudos, Tijan, kudos.

I love a good mature YA and RYAN’S BED certainly fits that bill, with lovely shades of the unexpected.

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

Reviewed for Jo&IsaLoveBooks Blog.

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Undefeated by Stuart Reardon and Jane Harvey-Berrick

REVIEWED BY 

Micky Barnard

Undefeated by Stuart Reardon
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I’m already a Jane Harvey-Berrick fan but I had a little trepidation going into this book with a debut author as a writing duo, no prejudices, I was just unsure what I’d find. Actually, what I did find was that the experience of Stuart Reardon brought a tangibility and raw-ness to the sports element of this book that made it unique in the world of sports romance. So, I have come out of this unsure where each author started and finished in terms of quality of writing (that was good) but with some inkling of the sports side of things that came from Stuart Reardon. Big congratulations to both authors on this, I’m thrilled to have enjoyed it so much.

UNDEFEATED is a sports romance with a forbidden element, it was a compelling story with a believable slow build of connection between injured rugby player, Nick and sports psychologist, Anna. The character of Nick was written with such depth, his frustration, his emotions, his anger and his injuries, and I truly got lost in the reality of the read. Anna was likeable if a little weak in her intentions to stay away. I hated the demise of both Nick and Anna at different junctures because I had quickly become on their side; I couldn’t look away when things unraveled.

“I will rise...
I will return...
and I will be undefeated.”

Things I loved about this book were the narratives on injury and that Nick wasn’t at the top of his game. So many sports romances are about the top team, top player and this difference was refreshing. I loved to hate some of the side characters.

This was quite an angsty and intense read at times and it takes the reader on something of an emotional roller coaster (a few times). I’m really looking forward to see what this author duo might do with this characters in the next book but don’t worry, this book stands alone as it is for now.

A copy of this book was provided by the authors in return for a honest review.

Reviewed for Jo&IsaLoveBooks Blog.

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The Bitterrot Inn by Devney Perry

REVIEWED BY 

Tina Shobe

The Bitterroot Inn by Devney Perry
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

The Bitter Root Inn is book 5 in the Jamison Valley Series. Personally I think this book can easily be a stand alone.

Maisy Holt and her son, Cooper unknowingly have had guardian angel watching and protecting them from a distance in the form of Hunter Faraday.

Hunter longer able to resist the temptation of Maisy any longer and makes a visit to her Inn. Maisy and Hunter are instantly drawn to each other. Hunter knows he should keep his distance and just can't.

I admire Maisy on so many levels. She's remodeling her Inn on her own with the help of her brothers. She's determined to be independent, run her Inn and raise her son. She's survived an awful ordeal and she is doing the best she can to go on with her life.

Hunter is a very honorable man. He's lived his life protecting and taking care of others.

This book has suspense, a darling little boy that you can't help but fall in love with and twists of humor that makes the story that much more realistic. The times that Maisy becomes a bumbling idiot when Hunter is around and the times that he accidentally scares her are absolutely hilarious.

When the evil of of her past comes to affect her present Hunter takes a huge risk and comes clean on the big secret he has kept hidden to protect Maisy and Cooper.

Maisy is deeply hurt by Hunter's secret and is now struggling with moving on without him. She's wavering on forgiveness as she knows deep down that Hunter is one in a million.

This is such a well written book that I thoroughly enjoyed reading. The author has a way of writing that makes the reader relate to the characters.

*Reviewed by Tina for Joandisalovebooks Blog


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Ryan's Bed by Tijan

REVIEWED BY 

Monique Cashmere 

Ryan's Bed by Tijan
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

You know when you read a Tijan book, you are in for an emotional journey, and sometimes in the teen drama. That is because she is good at writing it. I loved the concept of this book, but I was also saddened by it. What poor MacKenzie must have gone through is heartbreaking. I was swept away right along with Mac and her angst. I adored the connection she had with Ryan, grief can bring about something good at times. The way their relationship developed was refreshing, because being a teen story it wasn’t focused on being intimate but strengthening their bond.

There were plenty of secondary characters to keep the book compelling. Robbie was sweet, and devoted to his sister. Lots of high school kids to cause more excitement. At times I found this to be draining, mainly because it has been eons since I have stepped into a classroom and wonder if this is how kids treat each other now. I also had a hard time justifying her parents actions in the beginning. I have put this down to either it made for other activities to proceed or probably more that I have never experienced losing a child and unless you are in their shoes, would you really know how you would react?

On the whole, I really enjoyed getting to know Mac and her friends, especially Ryan. With the big twist at the end, I do wish there was one more chapter to explain why, just to bring it full circle. Reflecting back, I can see it making some sense, but not why she felt that way. If you love a good high school saga, then this is a great novel to read.

*I am grateful for the copy provided by the author for my honest opinion.
**Reviewed by Monique for JoandIsaLoveBooksBlog.

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The Idea of You by Robinne Lee

REVIEWED BY 

Micky Barnard 

The Idea of You by Robinne Lee
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I think less is going to be more with this review. THE IDEA OF YOU blew me away, discomforted me, challenged me and devastated me. And yet, I loved every minute of the ride; I couldn’t look away as I devoured it page by page, waiting for the impending car crash.

I don’t want to give a thing away beyond the blurb. The characters, Hayes and Solène transfixed me with their story and their pairing.

“So this is what twenty looked like. That sweet spot between adolescence and the moment things began to unravel.”

There are other characters in this story but it’s very hard not to feel anything but absorbed by Hayes and Solène. The complications and angst were intense so that I don’t think I will recover for a while.

The writing in this book is sublime, seamless and this is a writing debut. Robinne Lee is an author to look out for. As many readers of this book will say, I want need more, just so that I can keep on breathing.

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VIP by Lila Monroe

REVIEWED BY

Monique Cashmere

VIP by Lila Monroe
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This was a fun and flirty quick rom-com that had me smiling all day.

Hallie Gage is making changes in her life. A new job and not dating anymore playboys. Well the new job isn’t working out so well and neither is staying away from the VIP. She’s smart and sassy with plenty of class, so when the offer to play Max’s girlfriend for a week falls into her lap, she doesn’t jump straight away. I loved her tenacity and candor. My heart sank with hers when things went sour.

Max Carlisle comes from money, and lots of it. He wants to rebel against the family business as he is a free spirit. Taking Hallie to his grandfathers 85th Birthday party was the best decision he has ever made. Listening to his cousin wasn’t. The thing I loved about Max the most was he had flaws. He was super suave and worldly but also a little hot headed. He was sensitive but became very indifferent when he thought Hallie betrayed him.

I really liked the story of these two. They had great banter and plenty of chemistry. The only thing I didn’t comprehend fully was how quickly Hallie can forgive. I would have made him work harder. Although his gift was pretty sweet and attentive. Looking forward to reading the next book in this series.


*I am grateful for the copy provided by the author for my honest opinion.
**Reviewed by Monique for JoandIsaLoveBooksBlog.

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Midnight Blue by L.J. Shen

REVIEWED BY

Monique Cashmere

Midnight Blue by L.J. Shen
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I was intrigued once I read the synopsis and being my first LJ Shen novel, I am totally happy.

Firstly, let’s talk about Alex. He is a troubled English artist and an addict. He has a smart mouth that constantly gets him into strife. He has a massive chip on his shoulders and initially I didn’t know if I wanted to punch his arrogant face or kick his sexy ass! He is that hero that you want to hate because he is so destructive but when he shows us what is hidden underneath, argh..... you have to kick yourself now because you just fell in love with him like Indigo. But without Stardust, he’ll stay a monster forever.

Indie came from a loving family that was hurting in a big way. Taking this job was going to help mend several of their worries. She was inexperienced in some ways but more mature than most woman her age due to having to grow up before her time. It is easy to fall for a Rock God and I applaud Indie for hanging out for as long as she did. And I fully understand her heart and head at war trying to deal with the emotions. But we all crave something and it can then turn into an addiction of some sort. In the beginning his was drugs and booze but it ends with being each other’s vice, not without collecting a few scars along the way.

There is lots to enjoy with this book. Taking the journey with them both was enlightening. The shower scene on the plane - my gosh! I needed to fan myself then cracked up with Alex’s explanation. The thing that troubled me was the twist. I love a good concept to link it all together but this one seemed too out there, and for me, a little mean for Indigo and Craig. I’m not sure anyone can come back from that. On the whole though, I did like this book. Be warned, Alex may be too cocky and an overbearing ass for some, but he warmed up for me.

*I am very grateful for the copy I received by the author for my honest opinion.
**Reviewed by Monique for JoandIsaLoveBooksBlog.

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Her Gurardians by J.A. Vaughan

REVIEWED BY

Joanne Swinney

Her Guardians by J.A. Vaughan
My rating: 5 of 5 stars



Where to start? I suppose it’s always best to go back to the beginning so here it goes. New Author, new series of paranormal young adult romance. I feel like I have hit the jackpot.

It’s always exciting to start a new story. The wonders of fantasy can really take you places like nothing or no one else can.

Her Guardians was just….. Phenomenal. I was enraptured throughout the whole book. The twists, the secrets, the unbelievable kept me holding my breath, I literally felt like I was watching this story unfold not just reading the pages.

Cassie Johnson is a young lady with a special gift that she has kept secret for most of her life. She has suffered great loss, but has remained such a wonderful person throughout everything she has been through. If anyone deserves some good karma in her life it is definitely, Cassie.

Cassie may not think she needs protecting, but not everything stays the same in this world. Bad things can happen. Fortunately for Cassie she has not just one, but two guardians wanting to keep her safe from all things evil.

Cassie works in the offices of her local police station. Weirdly this job suits her, but I believe her talents lie more with a hands on approach. Not literally hands on, you’ll understand why when you read this story. But I mean for her to be a more active participant rather than working in the office.

Michael Andrews works as a police officer. By all accounts is extremely handsome, but very rude to Cassie. She is completely smitten with him and at first I’m thinking stay away he’s weird. I wasn’t that far off the mark to be honest. Maybe weird isn’t the right term, more he was strange, mysterious. But cassie is drawn to him like moth to a flame.

Stephen Faron new to the department takes Cassie’s breath away. He is beautiful, charming, very tongue-in-cheek. She can’t help feel so at ease around him. Cassie can’t believe she hasn’t been interested in having a relationship with any man, and now she’s interested in two. How did that happen? It’s like waiting for a bus nothing for hours and then two come at once.

If Angels really do exist, then that means so does the devil, right? And if Angels come from heaven and the devil lives in hell. And if Angels can visit earth, then doesn’t that mean that the devil can too? I think this story has just barely scratch the surface and I truly can’t wait for more.

I would definitely recommend all lovers of Paranormal young adult Romance picking up this book. There is no cliffhanger, but you will need lots of questions answered. I can’t wait for book two.

I’m totally team Stephen!!

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Whore by Willow Aster

REVIEWED BY

Becky Cox 

Whore by Willow Aster
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Whore is based off of a biblical story of Hosea and Gomer. Hosea was a good and faithful husband and Gomer was not faithful to him and at one point he had to buy her back to keep her being sold into slavery. Unconditional love I think is the lesson to learn from their story.

Lilith is a prostitute by trade. Born into a family of prostitutes; the only life she had ever known. She is a strong lady out of necessity and seemingly indifferent.

Soti, a recovering addict who does everything he can to help his community and provide for them as best he can.

Whore is action packed from the beginning. I was intrigued by the authors personal interpretation of the Hosea and Gomer story. I became quickly invested in Lilith and Soti's stories. The good, bad and ugly. This book has several layers and doesn't fit perfectly into any box.

I truly enjoyed this book and would highly recommend it!

Reviewed by Becky for JoandIsaLoveBooks



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It's Complicated by Missy Johnson

REVIEWED BY

Ann Meemken

It's Complicated by Missy Johnson
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I read a blurb for this book. I was intriqued by it. Anna wants to know if the rumor she heard was true. They call him the anaconda and for good reason. Nick is also best friends with Anna's dad.

I liked the forbidden romance and it builds on that. I enjoyed this story. It was a bit predictable at times but there was a few twists in it as well. I enjoyed the character's in this book. I couldn't help but root for Nick and Anna. They had amazing chemistry between them. Anna's best friend Kayla was a hoot.

**I received a copy for an honest review**
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Defiant Attraction by V.K. Torston

REVIEWED BY

Ann Meemken

Defiant Attraction by V.K. Torston
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Sophia and Dan are polar opposites. Sophia is a good girl. She is an honor student and in orchestra. She has her future mapped out. Dan on the other hand is a tattooed bad boy that dropped out of high school two years ago. What do they have in common there forced to live together because of there parents. They were at war with each other for years and now things have changed.

Sophia seemed really focused on her future. Her life revolved around that for years. Dan seemed to get her. He helped her to blossom and enjoy life. It was fun to watch their relationship grow.

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Deadly Summer by Denise Grover Swank

REVIEWED BY

Monique Cashmere

Deadly Summer by Denise Grover Swank
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

If you are a lover of mysteries, than this new series by Denise Grover Swank will keep you enthralled until the very end.

I have heard others say that this book is a good mixture of DGS’s other two mystery series, and while I can see it too, I feel it is mainly because the heroine, Summer, has plenty of sass and wit that is synonymous with this author’s brilliant characters. They have such complexities and flaws and growth that you can only fall in love with them. She is very clever in giving us well rounded hero’s too. Nobody is perfect, and characters shouldn’t be either, or they would be totally boring. Even the secondary characters have plenty of mettle and grit. Speaking of grits, not being from the south, I had to look up and get a visual of what Summer was eating with Luke. OMGosh it looked delicious!

Of course being a mystery, I can’t delve too much into the story line without giving away vital plot twists but when Summer finally gets to come home, not everyone is happy to see her. Her reality TV show is causing major upheavals around the town and when she starts finding dead bodies, she decides to use her real PI license to investigate further.

What I love about a Denise Grover Swank novel is you get swept away and taken on a journey that makes you feel apart of the Book. I always get excited when she releases a new one, being a mystery, contemporary romance or rom-rom, she is very talented in all genres. I highly recommend this new series, along with any series she writes.

I am greatful for the early copy which was provided by the author for an honest opinion.
*Reviewed by Monique for JoandIsaLoveBooksBlog.

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Inseparable by Siobhan Davis

REVIEWED BY

Becky Cox 

Inseparable by Siobhan Davis
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This one hit a home run for me. The author gave me all the feels. I hurt deeply for the characters, even when I didn't agree with what they were doing. Inseparable touches on several major life issues so be warned.

Ayden, Devin and Angelina have been best friends for years. As they grow older (high school) of course people change and their relationship changed and as with most of us bad decisions are made that have tragic consequences. True friends will love you even at your worst, but even the best of friends can be pushed too far.

Best friends to lovers with a love triangle. If you want to hurt, this is your book. I grieved over their decisions. I cheered at their triumphs.

The author has written a heartbreaking story of growing up, altering courses, and the struggle to find your way back. As I mentioned she threw some major issues at me that made my heart hurt. I was stressed out and wanted to yell a bit and ask, "How could you?".

5 My Heart Hurt Stars

I was gifted a copy for an honest review.

Reviewed by Becky for JoandIsaLoveBooks


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Dirty Deeds by Stella Rhys

REVIEWED BY

Monique Cashmere 

Dirty Deeds by Stella Rhys
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This is the first book I have read by this author, and even though I got the feeling there are other novels relating back to this one, I didn’t feel left out. It was enough to intrigue me to want to hunt them down and check them out. And if this is the case, those that have read the previous books, know that Emmett and Aly held their own, their story is one you’ll not want to miss.

Emmett gives off the impression that he is a hard nosed playboy but it’s not a life style he is happy about. There is a girl that he holds dear to his heart but she won’t have a bar of him. Aly won’t forgive him for all the dirty tricks he played on her in high school. She has spent her life trying to make her father proud, even buying the family business and making it thrive again. When these two meet up after 12 years, it is anything but platonic.

When I started reading, it had a sense of familiarity about this story. Whether it was due to it being a friends to lovers romance that I enjoy or the dual POV, it just felt right diving in and falling for both Aly and Emmett. He was a dependable character full of family loyalty. I loved his cheeky playful side when interacting with Aly. She had me giggling with her stumbling reactions when confronted with Emmett head on! She may have been stubborn, but she too was loyal to her family but more to her friends that had become her family. The secrets that they are keeping might come back to haunt them, but their similar personalities will help them to understand each other’s decisions to reach their HEA.

I am grateful for the early copy provided by the author for an honest review.
*Reviewed by Monique for JoandIsaLoveBooksBlog.

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Most Likely To Score by Lauren Blakely

REVIEWED BY 

Monique Cashmere 

Most Likely To Score by Lauren Blakely
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

What a book to kick the year off with!
This one was slightly different, and I can't put my finger on why this is so. Not to say it was bad in any way because I think it was that delicious slow burn feel, which I love, that we don't normally get from this author. Of course, there is plenty of wit and humor that is expected and it is told in dual POV.

I personally prefer to read a book where the hero is NOT an alpha jerk and being all demanding. There is something sexy to be said when a guy has a vulnerable side. This is Jones Beckett! He is certainly flirtatious and charming in a big way. He is also a family man that would drop everything to help them (not the football though!) and I love that quality. Jones had never been in love, so it took him on a ride that was sensational and to watch him recognise what this feeling was in the pit of his stomach was endearing. Jillian Moore is just as captivating. She is driven, classy, relentless, extremely professional and passionate. Her love of family was something that captured Jones heart early and when they spent more alone time together, they discovered more traits that they had in common, honesty and integrity being high on their list.

When you are a young dude, being called a "player" is something to be chuffed about. Although it can come back and bite you on the butt later when are looking for endorsement deals. Turning his reputation around, showing the public what Jones is really like is a job that Jillian is remarkably qualified for. Being a couple would jeopardise his latest deal and her upcoming promotion but working together has temptations that is hard to resist. The feelings and reactions they go through while trying to do what is best for the other is alluring.

I am most grateful for the early copy that was provided by the author for an honest review.
* Reviewed by Monique for JoandIsaLoveBooksBlog.

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Three Blind Dates by Meghan Quinn

REVIEWED  BY

Monique Cashmere

Three Blind Dates by Meghan Quinn
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

You know when someone raves on and on about how much they love a book, and you think to yourself........ can it be that good? Well this one is that good!

I laughed a lot. I even snorted, mainly because Noely was snorting and I was compelled to follow suit. Noely had just about everything she wanted at this stage in her life, she just needed that special someone to share it with and build upon for a lasting relationship. Her wit and quirk would turn off most men, but these three guys loved her crazy, as did I. She was fun to learn about and watch make decisions based on honesty and sometimes passion. She is the type of girl you would want in your group of friends to keep things entertaining.

I truly did not know which date she was going to pick, and it is the first time in a book that I didn't have a preference, all three suitors were charming and delightful. Every time she went on a date, you were hoping for that guy. Each had a quality that makes for a hero but they also had flaws that made them endearing. I personally could have picked either of them, they had me hooked from the first dates. The way Meghan Quinn writes, she makes you fall in love with each of them but also makes it feel extremely right why Noely fell hard for the hero. There is no need to fret though, as the other two guys get their own book in this series.

Did I love this book - Yes!
Am I excited about book two - You betchya I am!
Do I recommend you grab this book, and come along for the ride - Most definitely!

*A copy was kindly provided in exchange for an honest review.
**Reviewed by Monique for JoandIsaLoveBooksBlog.

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The Thing About Love by Kim Karr

REVIEWED BY

Monique Cashmere 

The Thing About Love by Kim Karr
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

First impressions can leave a mark, and that is exactly what happened when Juliette met Jack! She is a gal that will stand up for herself, but also has a softer side which helps with her business of being a Wedding Planner. I felt Juliette was a well rounded character, she had a few flaws, but that just made me feel more connected with her. Jack also wasn't perfect, but he came close! These two had a lot more in common than what they expected on their first encounter, it went very deep. I adored the way Jack was with his Mimi (thinking of stealing this if I ever become a grandma) and his sister Rory. They have a staunch family connection bought about by sorrow and hardship. He was also an ardent doctor, following in his fathers footsteps.

I enjoyed the story line of this book, and I even got a kick out of the secondary characters! I am definitely no prude, but sometimes the intimacy in these books are repetitive and tiresome. I like a good build up, slow burn and all, but sex scene after sex scene is too much. I just end up skimming through it. This contemporary romance is told in dual POV and it sets up nicely for two extra standalone novels to be released at a later date.


*I am grateful for an early copy that was provided by the author for an honest review.
**Reviewed by Monique for JoandIsaLoveBooksBlog.

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Sex, Not Love by Vi Keeland

REVIEWED BY

Monique Cashmere

Sex, Not Love by Vi Keeland
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

5 Sweet Pea Stars!

Again, this is another book that I was looking forward to, and was hoping that the hype was going to match the story. Have no fear, it is that good. This is classified as a contemporary romance, but believe me, it is also a rom-com. It is told in dual POV, mostly the heroine but enough of that gorgeous hero to keep us happy.

Natalia Rossi has had it tough but she has found her zen with her new career. Even though she is still living on the East Coast to raise her step daughter, she keeps in contact with her bestie in California constantly. I loved the vibe these two had together, it was effortless and hilarious at the same time. Nat was loyal and devoted to Izzy and her family. If a guy was to come into the mix, he had to be special and respective. And Hello Hunter Delucia! OMGoodness this man had me at the get go. He had manners and a wicked sense of humor with a dirty mouth. He was sincere and unpretentious. And in the words of Nat... "he's lewd, forward, persistent....... sexy as hell". He had me sighing and swooning when I wasn't laughing or giggling. I think I embarrassed myself in a waiting room with the biggest smirk while reading, then snorted out loud! Nat and Hunter had instant chemistry and it was authentic and believable what these two experienced together or previous to their union. Hunter's backstory is very touching and will melt your heart. Nat too made me want to give her the biggest hug, her ex husband was an utter douchebag.

Argh..... I just want more of these two, I am having a huge book hangover. I want to escape into their world again and indulge some more, I am so infatuated with them both. So in case you didn't get it, I highly recommend you read this one.

*I am grateful for the copy provided to give my honest review.
**Reviewed by Monique for JoandIsaLoveBooksBlog.

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Bad Dad by Sloane Howell

REVIEWED BY

Melinda Lazar 

Bad Dad by Sloane Howell
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

Bad Dad by Sloane Howell
2.5*

I'm feeling very confused after finishing this book. It wasn't quite what I expected and I think the major part of that was the plot and it's implausibility. I also feel like there were too many things happening throughout and it became a bit of a hodgepodge of elements which caused some confusion. I liked the book and it's humorous parts. I actually had to put the phone down at one point just to laugh. I did struggle to connect with Cora. Frankly, she got on my nerves more than just a tad: I wanted to give her a shake to just make up her damn mind. Are you in this or out, love?! There was too much back and forth in that regard and it got a bit tiresome. On the other hand, I really enjoyed Landon's character. He was such a great, loving father, solid and strong in all aspects. However, he needed to tone down the 'you're mine' and 'who do you belong to?' questions. We get it. You're an alpha male. She belongs to you. Cue eye roll.

For me, the book was okay-ish. The highlights of this book were Landon and Joe and their relationship along with the humorous parts. Honestly, I'm not sure that I'd rush to recommend Bad Dad unless you're after something left of center.

*arc received in exchange for honest review.

**Reviewed by Melinda for Joandisalovebooks Blog.

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Three Blind Dates by Meghan Quinn

REVIEWED BY

Melinda Lazar 

Three Blind Dates by Meghan Quinn
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Three Blind Dates by Meghan Quinn

I've read a handful of Quinn's books previously but stopped after I felt the level of humor was a tad too immature for me. Which is fine. We all enjoy and find different things funny. Anyway, when I saw the blurb for Three Blind Dates, it appealed to me immediately and I just had to try it.

Now. I want you to get out your crayolas and color me surprised because this book was fucking hilarious. I could not put it down even when I woke my husband up because the bed was shaking FROM MY LAUGHTER. And let me tell you, I have a tempur bed where you can roll around and the other person will be none the wiser - THAT's how hard I was laughing.

I'm not going to get into the storyline; all you need to know is that this is Noely's journey to finding love. There's no need for more detail and I don't want to give anything away. But I'll just say that if you like a good RomCom, this is one I heartily recommend. I'm already looking forward to reading this all over again and I'm beyond thrilled that Noely's unsuccessful dates get their own stories down the track. Gimme, gimme!

*arc received in exchange for honest review.

**Reviewed by Melinda for Joandisalovebooks Blog.



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Most Likely To Score by Lauren Blakely

REVIEWED BY

Melinda Lazar 

Most Likely To Score by Lauren Blakely
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Most Likely to Score by Lauren Blakely

Blakely gives us a brand spanking new forbidden romance featuring the lovely Jillian, publicist to the San Francisco Renegades and the delicious Jones, star receiver of the same team. We met these two characters in Most Valuable Playboy and I was positively Jones-ing for their story. Yes, that was my poor attempt at humor.

Jillian is up for a huge promotion and there is nothing that will stop her from getting it, certainly not the pesky feelings she has for a certain receiver....feelings she's had for a very long time but has squashed down into the never to be entertained zone. Jones has always been a player and not just of the sporting variety and unfortunately, he's got the reputation to support that. A reputation that needs work with the help of a certain publicist. Oh, yes. You know where this is going, don't ya?

The tension between Jones and Jillian was literally there on every single page of this book. More than that, it was evident in Most Valuable Playboy and it did not abate. I mean, when they finally kissed, I'm sure the angels wept and that shower scene? iPhone on fire. Repeat, iPhone on fire. Scorching, sizzling, steamy! Everything. Blakely perfectly delivers sexy forbidden romance without the drama that can typically ensure. Jillian and Jones were just made for each other and the way their story played out was perfection. Blakely kept it real and didn't rush or sugar-coat the ramifications of what could go wrong if they were discovered. I'm a huge fan of Blakely's heroes and heroines and J&J are no exception to this. I'm soooooo looking forward to her next book, Wanderlust but at the same time hoping that she writes additional books for the Renegade family.

*arc received in exchange for honest review.

**Reviewed by Melinda for Joandisalovebooks Blog.

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Man Card by Sarina Bowen

REVIEWED BY

Melinda Lazar 

Man Card by Sarina Bowen
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Man Card by Sarina Bowen and Tanya Eby

Ahhhhhhhhh! Ash and Braht! The Ash-kicker and Brahtwurst! Freaking loved it!

I was sooooooo looking forward to this book and I'm beyond thrilled that it did not disappoint! We met these characters who love to hate each other (but do they????) in Man Hands and given that Ash could barely stand the sight of Braht and that he seemed to live for needling her, I knew their story would be a fun ride and clearly, I was right. Having said that, I wasn't prepared for the serious side of Brahts personality to shine so bright and I also wasn't expecting some of the issues they had to deal with both together and separately.

I loved every single thing about this book: the characters were fun and the love/hate relationship provided much entertainment. I absolutely adored Braht's more serious side and I love how the authors created Ash's character. I think at times female characters can come across as bitchy and not in a 'you go, girl!' way but Ash was just perfect: a smart-ass, assertive, not backwards in coming forward and she rounded all that out with her huge heart.

You don't *have* to read Man Hands before reading Man Card but I would strongly suggest that you do in order to have a better understanding of all the characters and the different dynamics. This book was fantastic and I'm quite looking forward to what Bowen & Eby will give us next.

*arc received in exchange for honest review.

**Reviewed by Melinda for Joandisalovebooks Blog.

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Eleanor Oliphant is Completely Fine by Gail Honeyman

REVIEWED BY 

Micky Barnard 

Eleanor Oliphant is Completely Fine by Gail Honeyman
My rating: 2 of 5 stars

I’m shocked by how little enjoyment this book brought to my brain and heart considering it’s high ratings/review. I was completely underwhelmed by the storyline and by Eleanor herself. This was a tragic and depressing read that didn’t bring any joy or warmth to my reading soul either through chinks of light or quality of writing.

I struggled with this book from the off. The book is narrated solely from Eleanor’s point of view and considering its clear that she has a cognitive problem of initially undetermined origin, in particular with social interaction, her train of thought was jarring and difficult to follow. This didn’t make for good narrative flow and it felt like walking through sludge at times.

There are two elements of the storyline that piqued my interest, Eleanor’s mother and Raymond. They were the only elements that kept me reading and Raymond in particular was everything normal and decent in terms of friendship. The mother element was just something I needed answers on.

The cover is clever, once I realised the connection, I really think it was excellent.

I am clearly in the minority on this book but I am also very happy to stand by my opinion on it. It didn’t capture me in any way and I feel deflated at the end.

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

Reviewed for Jo&IsaLoveBooks Blog.

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