* Review * THE LOVE FIX by Jill Shalvis

I voluntarily read an early copy of this book.

* Review * THE LOVE FIX by Jill ShalvisThe Love Fix by Jill Shalvis
Series: Sunrise Cove #8
Published by Avon on June 24, 2025
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five-stars

Welcome back to Sunrise Cove for this heartwarming enemies-to-lovers tale where found family, forgiveness, and love may just be the key to finding yourself.

Lexi Clark’s life is falling apart around her, so when she’s summoned home to Sunrise Cove, the last thing she wants to do is face all the complications she left behind. Her past, her stepsister Ashley, and especially her infuriatingly gorgeous childhood nemesis-turned-crush Heath Bowman.

Yep, Lexi’s pretty sure being home again just might kill her. She’s an overachieving art appraiser who doesn’t believe in trust, love, or Happily Ever Afters. Free spirit Ashley, on the other hand, is so full of life it hurts to look at her. But Lexi can’t refuse Ashley’s plea to honor their late mother’s final wish to make amends with the people she’d wronged. So, on behalf of her estranged mother’s estate—and with Heath in tow as the executor—Lexi embarks on a road trip to repay all the people her gambling addicted mother owed money to.

Complicating everything are the feelings that well up for Lexi: for her mom, for Ashley, and most of all, for Heath. And for the record, she doesn’t like it, or the way he has of scaling the walls she’s built around her heart. The road trip shenanigans that ensue are both funny and heartbreaking, but Lexi finds something shocking along the way. Acceptance. Family. And unbelievably—if you ask Lexi anyway—love.

 

Shalvis makes a habit out of pulling on my heartstrings while making me chuckle out loud and I dearly love her for bringing all the feels time and time again! If you’ve read any of the Sunrise Cove series, you know it’s a laid back, friendly area where people seem to be drawn to in order to heal and find their forever love. The characters from book to book are not interconnected, but the warmth of the town, the heart of the scenery and the depth of the emotional relaxation is always at the forefront of every story. This particular book had loss and healing with so much underlying tension and mixed emotion to purge through. The characters hooked me quickly and the journey they set out on kept me turning page after page to see what was going to happen next. There was a strong backstory that explained where they each were coming from and really good development of the characters, the family in general and the emotion that their journey was bringing to each. I loved every minute and highly recommend to all.

five-stars

* Review * PLAYING WITH FOREVER by Erika Wilde

I voluntarily read an early copy of this book.

* Review * PLAYING WITH FOREVER by Erika WildePlaying with Forever by Erika Wilde
Series: Players Club Sinners #1
on June 23, 2025
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four-half-stars

Chase Noble always seemed unattainable…until one night with him at the Players Club changed everything.

I’ve wanted Chase for years, but much to my frustration, he’s always considered me off limits. When I walk into the Players Club with one goal in mind, to find a man who will give me what I need, it’s the maddeningly dominant, possessive (and I soon discover, pierced) Chase who refuses to allow any other man to touch me. He gives me a night I’ll never forget, a taste of what is possible, and I want more. With him.

But Chase is a man with a dark past and secrets, and even though we come to an agreement, where I’m the student and he’s the teacher, he insists this is all it could ever be. That’s he’s not capable of anything more.

Just as things begin to heat up between us, someone starts leaving me cryptic messages and watching my every move. Chase insists I move in with him so he can protect me, and the moment I do, our undeniable chemistry ignites into something deeper than either of us expected.

Soon, his protection isn’t enough. I want all of him—his body, his heart, and his trust. And this time, I’m not letting him go without a fight.

Playing with Forever is a steamy romance with high stakes tension, a possessive alpha hero, and a love worth fighting for.

 

Emotional and decadently sexy! The first book in Erika Wilde’s Players Club Sinners spin-off series was very quick to catch my attention and hold it as Andrea found just what she was looking for in Chase. The characters were easy to connect with and though each had a unique backstory, they also had common denominators that connected them even before their passion flared. The plot was sexually steamy and very satisfying, but there was also a bit of a suspense factor to the storyline that played a big part in the drama as well. I wanted to see a little more of them out and about as a couple once they were solidified, but overall I loved their story and can’t wait to see where the series goes next. Must be okay with BDSM to enjoy! Highly recommend!

four-half-stars

* Review * DEALBREAKER by Elise Faber and Kat Mizera

I voluntarily read an early copy of this book.

* Review * DEALBREAKER by Elise Faber and Kat MizeraDealbreaker by Elise Faber, Kat Mizera
Series: Gamebreakers #3
on June 23, 2025
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five-stars

She’s the biggest movie star in the world.

And she’s in danger.

My specialty is security for the rich and famous, so when legendary actress Willow St. Claire asks for my help protecting her, I can’t say no.

The only problem is that I’m in danger too.

Of losing my heart.

She’s smart and sweet, beautiful and kind, and despite my determination to never fall in love again I know I’m going to make her mine.

But when her past catches up with her, the future I’ve begun to plan is suddenly at risk.

I might lose her.

And everything I never knew I wanted.

 

I was hooked on this emotional delight from the very first page! Elise Faber and Kat Mizera are teaming up to bring us the Gamebreakers series and the group of guys that this series revolves around are really great. They have been friends for years and have a deep connection. Each one is slowly finding their forever love and taking the gang along for the ride as they add on to their little family. This book is Hudson’s book and quickly jumps into the heart of the storyline. Willow is vulnerable and easy to take under our proverbial wing as she grows closer to Hudson and his crew. The emotional depth of this book is powerful and the underlying issues are showcased in just enough detail to get the point across without making the story overwrought with sadness. I loved getting to know Willow and Hudson through each other’s eyes and seeing the depth of love simple kindness can inspire. Great characters, well developed plot and lots of emotion and turmoil to keep us reading. Loved them and can’t wait for what’s up next for the gang!

five-stars

* Review * NO MORE YESTERDAYS by Catherine Bybee

I voluntarily read an early copy of this book.

* Review * NO MORE YESTERDAYS by Catherine BybeeNo More Yesterdays by Catherine Bybee
Series: The Heirs #3
Published by Montlake on June 17, 2025
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five-stars

Taking over her late father’s company was never part of Alex Stone’s life plan.

But now, sitting in the CEO chair at Stone Enterprises, she’s resigned to living her life alone. Being a high-powered, billionaire woman tends to narrow one’s romantic prospects. As Alex works relentlessly to reshape her inherited hotel empire, she’s acquired a target on her back complete with death threats.

Alex turns to Hawk Bronson, a man who is equal parts bodyguard, sexy, and completely infuriating. Especially when it comes to protecting her.

As the danger escalates, Hawk comes to terms with the fact that their connection goes way beyond bodyguard and assignment. He knows he should keep his distance—his own dark past and nightmares put her at greater risk—but he can’t walk away. Protecting Alex means everything. Putting her life in someone else’s care isn’t an option once he’s tasted their passion and depth of his feelings.

As they navigate a minefield of family secrets, past pain, and unexpected hope, Alex and Hawk must face their deepest fears and fight for a future together. But first, they’ll need to unmask whoever is behind the threats—before Alex becomes their next victim.

 

I didn’t think it was possible to love the Stone siblings more … but I was wrong! The final installment of The Heirs trilogy has Bybee wrapping this family even more around her reader’s heart as Chase and Max show their love and concern for their sister time and again. Alexandrea has had the weight of the world on her shoulders for many months now and it’s beginning to take it’s toll when danger comes knocking. The characters are endearing and super easy to like, the drama of their father’s will and surprise brother folds right into where this book picks up with ease and suspense and the love the siblings honestly feel for each other shows around every turn. I loved the addition of super protective Hawk to the mix and being there every step of the way as he and Alex fell in love. I’m sorry to see our time with this group end, but I highly enjoyed every minute of their stories. Great characters, dramatic plots and spot on happily ever afters. Highly recommend the series!

five-stars

* Review * LOOK AT HER AND DIE by Lani Lynn Vale

I voluntarily read an early copy of this book.

* Review * LOOK AT HER AND DIE by Lani Lynn ValeLook at Her and Die by Lani Lynn Vale
Series: Content Advisory #2
on June 10, 2025
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five-stars

Posy “Doc” Hicks has high blood pressure. All thanks to a certain hazel-eyed blonde who drives him absolutely insane in her short shorts and cowboy boots.

At first, Searcy Hodges is just a passing fancy.

A look but don’t touch kind of girl.

She has a bad attitude, an even worse bedside manner, and a chip on her shoulder the size of Texas.

It would be wise to stay away, even if that attitude of hers really does great things for him.

But how is a man supposed to stay away when her temper is just that spectacular to experience?

He’s literally watched Searcy make one of her customers cry and not care.

She’s the poster child for ‘don’t do this if you want to stay in business.’

Yet, everyone keeps coming back.

And she keeps shelling out the attitude.

He’s a grown man. He shouldn’t get as much enjoyment out of watching the woman struggle.

He should be figuring out his own life, not wanting to dig into hers.

But the moment she breaks down in his arms and asks him for help, setting aside the attitude and exposing her vulnerability, he finds it impossible to say no.

He’s a Truth Teller. A biker with a hero complex. A paramedic and a former SEAL.

It’s literally ingrained in his psyche to help, and it’s painfully obvious that Searcy could use everything he has to give.

And while he’s solving her problems, he’ll make her his along the way.

She’ll never see it coming.

 

Vale wraps another couple around my heart with ease! Book 2 of the Content Advisory Series is easy to become invested in from the very start. Searcy is tough as nails and doesn’t hesitate to speak her mind, but beneath the surface there is a wounded heart who is taken advantage of time and again. I loved seeing her eventually get the better of those who have held her down all of her life. This series revolves around the Truth Tellers MC, but so far they are protective and kind-hearted but there’s not a lot of MC front and center, so a casual connection so far. The characters are well developed and the emotion is spot on with lots of turmoil and heart to sink your teeth into along the way. Highly enjoying the series so far!

five-stars

* Review * HER FIRST MISTAKE by Kendra Elliot

I voluntarily read an early copy of this book.

* Review * HER FIRST MISTAKE by Kendra ElliotHer First Mistake by Kendra Elliot
Series: Noelle Marshall #1
Published by Montlake on June 10, 2025
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five-stars

Thirteen years ago, Assemblyman Derrick Bell was murdered in his home by an intruder. His wife, Noelle Marshall, was left for dead. The crime was unsolved, but it wasn’t forgotten.

Today the FBI is tackling a fresh perspective on the case and looking to Noelle, now a detective for the Deschutes County sheriff’s office, for new clues. It is reopening everything Noelle thought was behind her. Memories of her escape from a traumatic childhood. A marriage that wasn’t the perfect love story she’d been promised. And a husband whose charm and privilege hid a dark side. But Noelle has been hiding something too: a secret about the night Derrick died that she has never told anyone.

As past and present and leads and misleads collide, one thing is frighteningly clear. Derrick’s murder wasn’t just unsolved. It’s unfinished. And only the truth—no matter the risk—can save the next victim.

 

Explosive yet endearing! The first book in a brand new series from Kendra Elliot is sure to please her diehard readers because we see some familiar faces along the way from previous series that we all love and adore. The main character that this series revolves around is Detective Noelle Marshall. We learn quickly about her unexpected past and follow along every step of the way as twists and turns lead us to answers we never were expecting. The characters are easy to like and make you want to know more about them, the case is intriguing and the mystery surrounding it is addictive. I loved every minute and can’t wait to see what happens next for Noelle and Max. Highly recommend!

five-stars

* Review * AN UNEXPECTED EVERYTHING by Carrie Ann Ryan

I voluntarily read an early copy of this book.

* Review * AN UNEXPECTED EVERYTHING by Carrie Ann RyanAn Unexpected Everything by Carrie Ann Ryan
Series: The Cage Family #2
Published by Carrie Ann Ryan on June 9, 2025
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five-stars

He left me with a note.

Weston Caldwell and I had two months together. Two months of intense heat and plans for our future. Then one day he left me sleeping with a note and never turned back. I closed off my heart and my dreams after he left and promised to take care of my family, never trusting love again.

So when I am forced to head to my family’s small town for protection, I never expect to turn around and see the man I loved.

I want to walk away and never look back, but when I find out he left for a heartbreaking reason, I’m not sure what to think. The chemistry between us hasn’t gone away—if anything it burns even brighter.

But my life is in the city and his is in this small town that draws me. Between his siblings, the town itself, and my new found family, walking away might break me.

Only Weston isn’t the only secret from my past. And it turns out, if Weston and I aren’t careful, we could lose everything before we find our second chance.

 

An emotional reunion filled with heart and angst! The next book in Ryan’s Cage Family series focuses on oldest sis from the “other” side of the fam, Isabella. She is powerful, opinionated and always looking out for her family. When she comes face to face with the man that left her behind all those years ago with no explanation, her emotions are churning like a roller coaster and she has to confront feelings she buried long ago. The main characters are really easy to like and the family that each of them brings into the picture are heartwarming and down-to-earth. I loved the way Ryan painted their worlds so that the reader could understand her pain, yet not hold anything against Weston for being a truly good guy in the end. I enjoyed their story from start to finish and can’t wait to see more of the Cage’s find their forever. Highly recommend!

five-stars

* Review * THE LOST BOOK OF FIRST LOVES by RaeAnne Thayne

I voluntarily read an early copy of this book.

* Review * THE LOST BOOK OF FIRST LOVES by RaeAnne ThayneThe Lost Book of First Loves by RaeAnne Thayne
Published by Canary Street Press on June 3, 2025
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five-stars

Raised by her literary icon father Carson Wells, Alison Wells always felt loved, even though her mother died when she was a teen. But when she takes a DNA test on a whim and discovers she has a sister she never knew about, it’s clear there are things her father didn't tell her before he died. Determined to meet Juniper—her half sister—and unravel the truth of what happened all those years ago, Ali finds herself taking a job as Juniper’s intern. She’ll eventually figure out a way to tell Juniper the truth of their relationship. But she never could have imagined what would happen next…

Juniper Connolly has always been incredibly healthy…until she wakes up in the hospital after experiencing cardiac arrest, with her new—and recently fired—intern to thank for saving her life. It’s clear June needs to de-stress her life a little, so when Ali offers her the use of her family’s cabin in a small Wyoming town, June has no reason not to go. But when she arrives, her life will never be the same.

Under the wide-open spaces of the Wyoming summer sun, Ali and June will untangle the secrets and lies their lives were built on to discover who they really are and what family really means. But even more than that, they'll build a real relationship with one another and finally become sisters.

 

Highly captivating and emotional! This story was quick to catch my attention and as the groundwork was being set for the story as a whole, I quickly became ingrained into the lives of these two half sisters who knew nothing about each other but forged an unbreakable bond through happenstance. A bit of subterfuge brings Ali into June’s life at just the right time to save her  and begin the slow journey of building a friendship that will carry forward into sisterhood when all of the secrets are unraveled. Each sister has a caring man open their eyes to what could be as their worlds collide and beauty shines through. I loved every minute of their story, but really wanted an epilogue to give us a hint into how their stories played out on the love, distance and job fronts. Highly recommend!

five-stars

* Review * THE SUMMER THAT CHANGED EVERYTHING by Brenda Novak

I voluntarily read an early copy of this book.

* Review * THE SUMMER THAT CHANGED EVERYTHING by Brenda NovakThe Summer That Changed Everything by Brenda Novak
Published by MIRA on June 3, 2025
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five-stars

She returned to prove her father's innocence, but there's no telling what she'll find…

It's been fifteen years since Lucy Sinclair saw her father. Fifteen long years since she sat in a courtroom and watched him sentenced to life in prison. He murdered three victims—all people she knew—which ruined her life at just seventeen. But now she’s back in Virginia to talk to him, wondering if there’s more to the story of what happened that fateful night.

An old flame, Ford Wagner, makes his own return to North Hampton Beach, fleeing a marriage that seems destined for divorce. He’s wary of Lucy and her digging into the past, but the more time they spend together, the closer they get and the more he finds himself reconsidering the truth behind the death of their mutual friend that summer. Problem is, there are plenty of those in this small coastal town who would prefer things stay quiet…

 

Highly addictive and emotional! With a riveting storyline, Novak takes her readers on a heartfelt story of reconnection and righting wrongs. The main character Lucy returns to the place where her life changed forever because 15 years later she still hasn’t been able to let go of the feeling like something doesn’t add up. She sets out on a journey to discover the truth once and for all about what happened on that one summer night, but twists and turns make for even more turmoil as she shakes up the town in a way no one will ever be able to forget. There’s sadness, emotion, reconnection and love shining bright as numerous people step up to get to the truth and let justice prevail. The core of the story was very quick to catch my attention and hold it throughout. I enjoyed the twists and I especially enjoyed seeing love conquer all. Highly recommend!

five-stars

* Review * KEEPING SCORE by Kelly Jamieson

I voluntarily read an early copy of this book.

* Review * KEEPING SCORE by Kelly JamiesonKeeping the Score by Kelly Jamieson
Series: The New Jersey Storm #2
on June 3, 2025
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five-stars

An unexpected game changer…

Ford

My brain is hard-wired to hockey. To train hard, to win, to be the best. I don’t date, I basically live and breathe hockey and I plan everything. Until I find a newborn baby outside my apartment. It’s like something out of a movie, except she’s mine and this is my life. I panic, the only person I know who can help is my neighbor Andi. But in doing so, I risk inviting her into my life. So far she’s just been a friend, but I’m out of my depth and losing control. Now with each late night together, we feel like a family and I can see the lines blurring.

Andi

I have no idea how to look after a baby. But Ford has always come through for me. So now it’s my turn to help. It’s only temporary. I know Ford is a pin-up, but I’ve never been attracted to him…until now. Seeing him holding his tiny daughter is melting my heart. I thought I had no interest in love and settling down, but I’m catching feelings. I just know this set-up won’t last forever, but I’m scared of what will happen when things go back to normal...

 

An emotional journey of healing and determination! With the second book in her New Jersey Storm hockey series, Jamieson turns her goalie’s life into turmoil with the discovery of a baby he knew nothing about being dropped into his lap. The characters are endearing, the plot is a mix of adorable and emotional and the overall story is heartfelt. I loved the friendship that Ford and Andi shared before things turned into more between the two of them. He helped her previously when her life was turned upside down and seeing her get to do the same for him before things started to progress was very heartwarming. Lots of humor, so much heart and a little sadness all made for a really great story. Highly recommend!

five-stars