* Review * TREASURE COAST PROMISE by Leigh Duncan

I voluntarily read an early copy of this book.

* Review * TREASURE COAST PROMISE by Leigh DuncanTreasure Coast Promise by Leigh Duncan
Series: Emerald Bay #2
Published by Gardenia Street Publishing on August 22, 2023
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four-stars

She has a new career and a promising relationship, but will the secrets of her past ruin her hopes for the future?

No matter where she lived, Kimberly Ann Dane considered the Dane Crown Inn her home. As a child, Kim looked forward to frequent visits to the inn where she enjoyed building sand castles on Emerald Bay’s sandy beaches, learning to cook in the inn’s spacious kitchen and hunting for buried treasure with her cousins. As she grew older, she paid her way through college by working summers and school holidays at the inn. It’s no wonder that—divorced, at odds with her grown children and hoping to make a fresh start—Kim returns to the one place she’s always been welcomed with open arms. But things have changed. Kim’s cousins have scattered and face problems of their own. And the inn, which was once hailed as the “gem of Florida’s Treasure Coast,” has lost its luster. Kim has barely settled into her old room at the top of the stairs when her Aunt Margaret shocks the entire family with the news that she has decided to sell the estate that has been in the Dane family for more than fifty years. Before she does, though, Margaret asks Kim and her cousins to make one final wish come true.

While Kim and her cousins work to fulfill their aunt’s last request, they begin to rebuild the closeness they once treasured. As the women work to restore the inn to its former glory, a new career and a promising relationship with Emerald Bay’s most eligible bachelor open up a world of fresh possibilities for Kim. But when hidden secrets come to light, will her past ruin Kim’s hopes for a second chance at happiness?

The Emerald Bay Series

After a lifetime of running the finest inn in Emerald Bay, Margaret Clayton has to make a decision … sell the Dane Crown Inn to a stranger or put her hopes for the future in her family’s hands. For most people, the choice would be simple. But nothing about her family is simple … especially not with her daughter and four nieces whose help Margaret needs now more than ever.

The five cousins know the inn as well as Margaret does. As young girls and teenagers, they spent every summer keeping the cottages and suites spotless, and enjoying the gorgeous beach as a tight knit family. Thirty years later, though, these five women have complicated, important, distant, and utterly packed lives. The last thing any of them can do is drop everything and save the inn. But, when it comes to family, the last thing is sometimes the only thing.

As the once-close cousins come together on the glorious shores of Florida’s Treasure Coast, they learn that some things never change, but others can never be the same. And the only thing that matters is family which, like the Dane Crown Inn, is forever.

Treasure Coast Homecoming, Book 1
Treasure Coast Promise, Book 2
Treasure Coast Christmas, Book 3
Treasure Coast Revival, Book 4
Treasure Coast Discovery, Book 5
Treasure Coast Legacy, Book 6

 

Heartwarming and angsty! The second book in Leigh Duncan’s Emerald Bay series continues laying the groundwork of this family coming together to support their ailing aunt/mom in remodeling endeavors with the inn near and dear to all of their hearts in hopes of holding one final family reunion bash before selling the inn.

I really like the premise of this story and the characters are all intriguing in their own right, but I really am not fond of the flow of the series at all. This book in particular ended super abruptly right in the middle of a scene making it feel cliff-hanger-like by default. I seriously felt like the file was corrupt and there should have been more attached, that’s how ill timed it was. The blurb also makes it feel like this book is centered on Kim, when in fact each cousin gets fairly equal time in the spotlight again other than Scott who isn’t present in this book at all. The flow of the story would work much more efficiently for reader comprehension if one book centered on each character as much as possible and then tied them all together in a final book centered around the reunion. I’ll probably continue reading, but I for-see more irritation in my future. This is not a stand-alone series.

four-stars

* Review * HOT TO THE TOUCH by Kate Meader

I voluntarily read an early copy of this book.

* Review * HOT TO THE TOUCH by Kate MeaderHot to the Touch by Kate Meader
Series: Hot in Chicago Rookies #3
Published by Kate Meader LLC on August 22, 2023
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five-stars

The next book in the Hot in Chicago Rookies series features playboy firefighter, Sam Killian!

I might be a rookie Chicago firefighter, but I’m on top of the world. I’ve just earned my spot on Rescue Squad at legendary Engine 6, can get all the action I want both in and out of the bedroom, and am possessed of an enviable sneaker collection. Nothing can harsh my vibe except her—Cassandra Ferguson, my brother’s sister-in-law, or as I affectionately label her: the blister-in-law. Ever since I met her, she’s looked down her perky little nose at me, never mind that I’m a good foot taller. Apparently, I offended her with a few risqué jokes and an offer for a fun, no-strings night—crimes that have relegated me to lower than dirt in St. Cassandra's eyes.

These days we’re at a stalemate. Don’t get along, can’t get along. Only when tragedy strikes, we have no choice but to put our animosity aside for the sake of our hurting niece and nephew, who need us now more than ever. As co-guardians, Cassie and I are enemy combatants in an uneasy truce, flailing around in a no-man’s land of grief and lust, forced to work as a team.

Thing is, when Cassie and I team up—when we really work together—the results are explosive. In a sexy way. In an amazing way. Maybe … in every way. But with stakes this high, we can’t get it wrong.

Even though it feels so, so right.

 

Unputdownable angsty goodness! Kate Meader tore my heart out and slowly put it back together again with the latest book in her Hot in Chicago Rookies series and I absolutely loved every emotional minute of it! The characters are sassy and attention grabbing, the situation they find themselves in is heart wrenching, and the family they manage to forge out of scattered pieces is simply beautiful. Team Sam all the way!

I adore Sam. He’s a fun-loving guy who wears his heart on his sleeve and let’s his love and adoration be widely known as he enjoys living life to it’s fullest. When faced with turmoil and adversity, he was quick to step up and make the darkest day brighter again. I couldn’t have loved his character more.

Cass on the other hand is hard-nosed and judgmental in a way that doesn’t afford her as close of relationship as she might otherwise have with people if she went with the flow a little more. I did like her, and I enjoyed watching Sam soften the wall she wore around her heart.

I highly recommend this book as well as the entire series to anyone that enjoys a close knit firehouse with members who work hard, play hard and love the hardest of all.

five-stars

* Review * BEST MAN NEXT DOOR by Stefanie London

I voluntarily read an early copy of this book.

* Review * BEST MAN NEXT DOOR by Stefanie LondonBest Man Next Door by Stefanie London
Published by Canary Street Press on August 22, 2023
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five-stars

For Sage Nilsen, coming back to her small Massachusetts hometown for a family wedding feels like high school all over again. Except Jamie Hackett has gone from charming boy next door to handsome best man. And sparks are suddenly flying between the popular guy and the so-called outcast. As the wedding gets closer, Sage finds herself on the edge of something unexpected—a second chance in the town she left behind…with the guy she’s never forgotten.

 

Quick to nab my heart and take me on a satisfying ride! Stefanie London delights once again with really easy to connect with characters and an emotional journey of finding love when they are least expecting it. I really loved both Sage and Jamie individually and the way their personalities melded together was really heartwarming. While on the shorter novella side, this story felt complex in it’s own way and left me very satisfied with the outcome for this couple. Highly recommend!

five-stars

* Review * ALASKAN BLACKOUT by Joanne Rock

I voluntarily read an early copy of this book.

* Review * ALASKAN BLACKOUT by Joanne RockAlaskan Blackout by Joanne Rock
Series: Kingsland Ranch #3
Published by Harlequin Desire on August 22, 2023
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five-stars

His search leads him to the one woman he must resist at all costs—until one storm-tossed night…

When Quinton Kingsley arrives in Alaska’s rugged Aleutian Islands in search of his missing half brother, he finds a brash, red-haired beauty instead. McKenna O’Brien maintains his brother’s bar while he’s off-grid. She has her reasons for keeping the truth from the wealthy cowboy CEO. Too many men have taken advantage of McKenna’s trust.

Though McKenna’s off-limits, Quint can’t ignore their sizzling attraction. Giving into temptation the night a storm strands them together only makes Quint desire McKenna more. With the stakes high and a precious new complication, has Quint finally found the woman of his dreams? Or will he risk losing her forever?

 

Emotional, angsty goodness! Joanne Rock is pulling at our heartstrings with the third book in her Kingsland Ranch series and I loved every single minute of it. I wanted slightly more info on the back story of his father and the games he had played from the previous books to make it feel like a complete stand-alone, but having read the previous ones myself I knew the backstory and was hooked from start to finish. I’m looking forward to Clay’s story!

Quinton is accomplished and sincere in wanting to right the wrongs with how some of his siblings were treated. I liked his character a lot.

McKenna is a sweetheart and very protective of her step-bro who has treated her more like family than anyone else ever has. I enjoyed watching her fall for her forever love.

I recommend this book as well as the entire series to anyone that enjoys family drama mixed up with your romance. The series is fast paced and satisfying.

five-stars

* Release Blitz/Review * TIGHT SPOT by Stacey Lynn

I voluntarily read an early copy of this book.

* Release Blitz/Review * TIGHT SPOT by Stacey LynnTight Spot by Stacey Lynn
Series: Nashville Steel #3
on August 15, 2023
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five-stars

When a fake relationship feels a little too real…. I’m in a Tight Spot.

I’m not a nice guy. I’m too rude. Too gruff. I want to be left alone and stay in my lane as one of the best tight ends in the NFL. Too bad management has a sudden problem with my image and all the fines I’ve been racking up.

Now I’m told I need to settle down, shape up…or they’re shipping me out.

Except no playbook could have prepared me for the Hail Mary pass they threw at me:

Enter Hailey Parillo. My fake girlfriend. She’s the Sunshine to my Grump, the Sweet to my Sour and the Smile to my Scowl. As ridiculous as it is, she agrees to play this fake game with me, for something in return:

Lessons in seducing a man and losing her virginity.

I almost balk at the idea, but I've got a career I don't want to lose in a city I don't want to leave.

AND little did I know this is the most important game of my life.

 

This unlikely pair heats up the pages and will have you pulling for them from the very start! He’s grumpy with good reason and she’s sweet and sincere. The mix is pure delight! Great characters, drama galore and just enough gruff to make the sweet all that much better. Loved them!

Hailey is a sweetheart and I loved her from the start. I enjoyed seeing her get the admiration she finally deserved.

Dawson has been a high point for the first couple of books. We knew the drama with his sister was going to come to a head and knock our socks off and boy did it. He’s had a bad rap … but he’s on the right path now.

I highly recommend this book as well as the entire series to anyone that enjoys a football romance with a lot of heart and steam. Not a huge amount of game time, but the characters are addictive and the happily ever afters are rewarding.

 

 

 

Tight Spot by Stacey Lynn is now live! 

 

When a fake relationship feels a little too real…. I’m in a Tight Spot. 

I’m not a nice guy. I’m too rude. Too gruff. I want to be left alone and stay in my lane as one of the best tight ends in the NFL. Too bad management has a sudden problem with my image and all the fines I’ve been racking up. 

Now I’m told I need to settle down, shape up…or they’re shipping me out.

Except no playbook could have prepared me for the Hail Mary pass they threw at me:

Enter Hailey Parillo. My fake girlfriend. She’s the Sunshine to my Grump, the Sweet to my Sour and the Smile to my Scowl. As ridiculous as it is, she agrees to play this fake game with me, for something in return: 

Lessons in seducing a man and losing her virginity. 

I almost balk at the idea, but I’ve got a career I don’t want to lose in a city I don’t want to leave.

 AND little did I know this is the most important game of my life.

 

Buy Links

Amazon: https://amzn.to/3isQV57
Apple Books: https://apple.co/3IEi93m
Nook: http://bit.ly/3imT6at
Kobo: http://bit.ly/3jY1QUI
Google Play: http://bit.ly/3X3VfqA

Add to Goodreads: http://bit.ly/3w9Jza5

 

Meet Stacey 

Stacey Lynn likes her coffee with a dash of sugar, her heroes with a side of bossy, and her wine a deep shade of red.

The author of over thirty romance novels, many of which have been best-selling titles on Amazon, AppleBooks, and Barnes & Noble, she loves being able to turn her vivid imagination into a career that brings entertainment and joy to her readers. Focused on sports romance and emotional, small-town romance, she also loves stretching herself in different genres.

Born in Texas and raised in the Midwest, she now makes her home in North Carolina and loves all things Southern. Together with her ultimate tall, dark, and handsome hero, she has four children. Her life is a chaotic mess that fights with her Type-A, list-making, neurotically organized preferences and she wouldn’t have it any other way.

 

Connect with Stacey

Website: www.staceylynnbooks.com
Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/6995826.Stacey_Lynn
Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Stacey-Lynn/e/B00CD6VVQG/
Facebook: www.facebook.com/staceylynnbooks
Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/staceyssultryreaders/
Instagram: www.instagram.com/staceylynn.author
Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/staceylynnbooks
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@staceylynnbooks
Bookbub: https://www.bookbub.com/authors/stacey-lynn
Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/staceylynnbooks/_created/

five-stars

* Release Blitz/Review * STAY HERE WITH ME by Carrie Ann Ryan

I voluntarily read an early copy of this book.

* Release Blitz/Review * STAY HERE WITH ME by Carrie Ann RyanStay Here With Me by Carrie Ann Ryan
Series: The Wilder Brothers #5
Published by Carrie Ann Ryan on August 14, 2023
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four-half-stars

The world thinks I only write songs about my ex-boyfriends.

They study each lyric to point a finger at which man broke my heart—even if I’ve never met him.

Only the man I refuse to write about is the one who is so tangled in my mind that I know I can never be with him.

I had one night with East Wilder, and I know that’s all there will ever be.

He broke my heart without even trying.

Yet now I can’t seem to write a single verse and I need a place to hide while I figure out who I am. The Wilder Retreat will have to be my refuge as the Wilders prepare for my best friend’s wedding.

And when I’m there, I refuse to fall for East again.

Even if the dark shadows in his eyes draw me in. And the dangers of his past might be the one thing that forces us to finally give in.

 

Emotional, sexy goodness! Carrie Ann Ryan is bringing on the angst with East Wilder’s story, the fifth in her addictive Wilder Brothers series and I loved the ride! The characters are easy to like, the turmoil is addictive and the passion that flares every time they look at each other is delightful. I’m loving this series and can’t wait to see what’s in story for Elliot!

Lark is a complex character. She’s successful and dedicated, but she’s having a bit of a re-awakening when she realizes the words she puts on paper are harder when they actually remind her of the guy she’s got in her heart. I liked her a lot and was happy to see her get what she wanted.

East has been a favorite since the start of the series because he’s been one of the most wounded that we knew would have a powerful story.

I highly recommend this book as well as the entire series to anyone that enjoys a group of close-knit brothers who rally together to re-enter real life after military careers and wind up falling one after another for their forever love.

 

 

 

 

Title: Stay Here With Me
Series: The Wilder Brothers #5
Author: Carrie Ann Ryan
Genre: Contemporary Romance
Tropes: Enemies to Lovers/Rock Star/Tortured Hero
Release Date: August 14, 2023

 

BLURB

 

The Wilder Brothers from NYT Bestselling Author Carrie Ann Ryan continues with a secret romance that East and Lark never saw coming.

 

The world thinks I only write songs about my ex-boyfriends.
They study each lyric to point a finger at which man broke my heart—even if I’ve never met him.
Only the man I refuse to write about is the one who is so tangled in my mind that I know I can never be with him.
I had one night with East Wilder, and I know that’s all there will ever be.
He broke my heart without even trying.
Yet now I can’t seem to write a single verse and I need a place to hide while I figure out who I am. The Wilder Retreat will have to be my refuge as the Wilders prepare for my best friend’s wedding.
And when I’m there, I refuse to fall for East again.
Even if the dark shadows in his eyes draw me in. And the dangers of his past might be the one thing that forces us to finally give in.

 

 

 

PURCHASE LINKS

 

 
ALSO AVAILABLE

 

AMAZON US / UK / CA / AU

 

 
 
 

 

 

 

COMING SOON

 

Releasing December 11

 
 
 

 

 

Releasing April 22
 
AMAZON / B&N / KOBO

 

 

 

 

Releasing May 13
 
AMAZON / B&N / KOBO

 

 
 
 

 

 
AUTHOR BIO
Carrie Ann
Ryan is the New York Times and USA
Today bestselling author of contemporary, paranormal, and young adult romance.
Her works include the Montgomery Ink, Redwood Pack, Fractured Connections, and
Elements of Five series, which have sold over 3.0 million books worldwide. She
started writing while in graduate school for her advanced degree in chemistry
and hasn’t stopped since. Carrie Ann has written over seventy-five novels and
novellas with more in the works. When she’s not losing herself in her emotional
and action-packed worlds, she’s reading as much as she can while wrangling her
clowder of cats who have more followers than she does.
AUTHOR LINKS
four-half-stars

* Review * THE TROUBLE WITH LITTLE SECRETS by Joss Wood

I voluntarily read an early copy of this book.

* Review * THE TROUBLE WITH LITTLE SECRETS by Joss WoodThe Trouble with Little Secrets by Joss Wood
Series: Dynasties: Calcott Manor #3
Published by Harlequin Desire on August 22, 2023
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five-stars

Their one-night stand was off-the-charts… Now she must reveal the consequences.

Fearing his powerful grandmother, Peyton Caron has concealed her baby son from hotel magnate Jack Grantham. Their single spectacular night was unforgettable, but Peyton kept her distance because Jack’s grandmother blamed Peyton for the death of his late brother. Now rumors have forced Peyton to reveal Jack’s identity as her baby’s father.

Because of blackmail and newly unearthed family secrets, Jack’s life is complicated, so he’s wary of Peyton’s revelation. But the raging desire they felt two years ago has only grown. Jack wants Peyton and his son in his life, but he doesn’t believe in love. And with all that stands between them, Peyton won’t settle for anything less.

 

A deliciously scandalous addition to the Dynasties: Calcott Manor series by Joss Wood! Secrets are unraveling quickly as each book in this series unfolds. I highly recommend you read the books in order because you get a much deeper connection with the family if you are already familiar with the previous aspects when coming into this one. The characters are easy to like, the drama is riveting and the romance is heartfelt. I can’t wait to see what’s next!

Peyton is a fulfilling character. She has kept secrets, but she did them for the right reasons.

Jack is really sincere. He wants answers for the secrets surrounding his family, but he also doesn’t want to damage the core of who they are.

I highly recommend this book as well as the entire series to anyone who enjoys a fast paced romance backed by scandal and drama.

five-stars

* Review * WEDDING DATE WITH HER BEST FRIEND by Susan Carlisle

I voluntarily read an early copy of this book.

* Review * WEDDING DATE WITH HER BEST FRIEND by Susan CarlisleWedding Date with Her Best Friend by Susan Carlisle
Series: Atlanta Children's Hospital
Published by Harlequin Medical Romances on August 22, 2023
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four-half-stars

Who knew a second chance…

was right in front of them!

Anesthesiologist Val agrees to be the wedding date for her best friend, widower Owen, to stop his overprotective family fussing. It should be a breeze—except Val has long harbored a secret crush on Owen! As long as she maintains some boundaries, she should be fine, right? Yet when fake dates lead to an unexpected kiss, Val knows they’ve crossed a line…but will they want to go back?

 

Heartfelt and emotional! Susan Carlisle continues the Atlanta Children’s Hospital series for Harlequin Medical Romance with a great friends to lovers addition. This story shines with an older aged couple who show that a second chance on that forever love can be just as gorgeous as the first. I whole-heartedly loved Valerie and Owen and their dance towards forever but found the ending to be a bit abrupt and underdeveloped. Overall a really great story!

I recommend this book as well as the entire series to anyone that enjoys a fast paced medical setting where romance blooms and forever is extra special.

four-half-stars

* Review * ONE SUMMER OF LOVE by Reese Ryan

I voluntarily read an early copy of this book.

* Review * ONE SUMMER OF LOVE by Reese RyanOne Summer of Love by Reese Ryan
Series: Valentine Vineyards #2
Published by Harlequin Desire on August 22, 2023
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four-half-stars

She’s beautiful, competent…and wreaking havoc on his self-control!

Brains and beauty? Scientist Delaney Carlisle challenges all of CFO Nolan Valentine’s professional boundaries—and inspires a passion unlike any other. Their chemistry is as intoxicating as the wine they’re creating. But she’s an employee. She’s off-limits. Not to mention, the determined single mom is only in town for the summer to help turn Valentine Vineyards into a success. Then she’s off to a full-time job and stability. Yet when Nolan finally rebels thanks to Delaney’s irresistible charms, he’ll have to choose between listening to his head and following his heart…

 

Electrifying chemistry! Reese Ryan is on point with the instant connection between her latest pair in the second book in her Valentine Vineyards series. The sexual tension is on fire, and the emotional depth that each character puts into their fast paced relationship is really heartwarming. I enjoyed every minute of Laney and Nolan, I only wish we had seen a tad more of his additional siblings to give that familial connection a stronger zing. Overall a very solid read and a great stepping stone in the series.

Nolan has no intention of stumbling upon the woman of his dreams when he undertakes his new position at Valentine Vineyards, but happenstance can be a powerful thing. Watching him fall hard for Laney is exciting.

I highly recommend this book as well as the entire series to anyone that loves a high powered family as the background of a series as each sibling stumbles upon their happily ever after.

four-half-stars

* Review * FUN HOUSE by Lani Lynn Vale

I voluntarily read an early copy of this book.

* Review * FUN HOUSE by Lani Lynn ValeFun House by Lani Lynn Vale
Series: Welcome to the Circus #1
on August 15, 2023
Buy on Amazon
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five-stars

Sometimes you need to crash a funeral to experience happiness.

At least, Kissimmee Singh, aerial artist for Singh Circus, the most sought-after traveling circus of all time, keeps telling herself that’s why she crashes funerals.

In reality, she’s lost and confused. Sometimes it’s nice to experience other people’s grief and be reminded that life isn’t as bad as it could be.

Though attending the funeral of some random old man that died of cancer wasn’t supposed to change her life completely. It does.

With one look at the grieving man and woman, she realizes that this was one funeral she probably should’ve stayed away from.

He’s in a black suit, black undershirt, black gloves, and black shoes. He looks like the devil himself.

When she tries to make a run for it, he follows and demands to know why she’s there.

If she’d known he was going to be trouble, she’d have stayed away. If she’d known that he’d follow her to their next stop, she might’ve tried a little harder to hide who she was. What she was.

But she didn’t.

Instead, she gave him everything in one single night. And will live to regret it.

 

Highly entertaining and addictive! The first book in the brand new Welcome to the Circus series from Lani Lynn Vale does not disappoint! We have circus antics, romance, drama and even a bit of mystery to delight us as this family begins to wrap themselves around our hearts in just the first book of the series. I can’t wait for more!

Kissimmee is a sweetheart and I really enjoyed her as the first member of the Singh family to find their happily ever after. She was authentic and down to earth, and her connection with Coffey was sizzling.

Coffey is just a doll. He had me from hello! He’s sincere, he’s carrying heartache that needs soothing and he’s just a nice guy all the way around.

I highly recommend this book to anyone that enjoys a fast paced romance with lots of humor and drama mixed in as danger comes knocking close to home and loved once have to rally around in times of need.

five-stars