Archives for October 2023

* Review * AN OFF-LIMITS MERGER by Naima Simone

October 22, 2023 Leave a Comment

I voluntarily read an early copy of this book.

* Review * AN OFF-LIMITS MERGER by Naima Simone

An Off-Limits Merger by Naima Simone
Published by Harlequin Desire on October 24, 2023
Buy on Amazon
Goodreads

To seal the deal, it’s hands off the CEO’s daughter…

Motorcycle exec Bran Holleran is a heartbeat away from turning his company into a household name—if he can keep his hands off the daughter of his most important investor. An ill-fated affair could destroy everything, but how can he resist?

After a betrayal on the eve of her wedding, Boston socialite Tatum Haas is through trusting men. Love is for fairy tales, and Tatum wants her career, nothing more. But her family’s new business partner is shattering her resolve just as explosive revelations put everything on the line…

I was swooning for Bran from start to finish! While this isn’t listed as a series/duet, fans of Simone will recognize the heroine’s BFF Nore from a previous Desire book (Her Best Kept Secret) and already know a bit of the back story of the magical brooch. I found Tatum and Bran really entertaining and easy to like and was pulling for them to make it work right from the start because of how much I liked them. The only thing I found lacking in this book was the quick ending with the lack of drama that comes out amidst the family scandal. I wanted more … c’mon, I know I’m not the only one that wanted that screaming, knock down hissy fit that was more than justly deserved! Loved it as a whole though!

I highly recommend this book to anyone that enjoys a fast paced romance filled with accomplished characters who fall hard and join their lives together no matter the drama.

Filed Under: Book Reviews

* Review * THE CHRISTMAS CABIN by Michelle Major

October 22, 2023 Leave a Comment

I voluntarily read an early copy of this book.

* Review * THE CHRISTMAS CABIN by Michelle Major

The Christmas Cabin by Michelle Major
Series: The Carolina Girls #6
Published by Canary Street Press on October 24, 2023
Buy on Amazon
Goodreads

There’s no place like home for the holidays…

As a girl, single mom Lauren Maxwell hated Magnolia, North Carolina. And she thought she’d left her hometown in the rearview mirror years ago, but a message from her beloved baby brother, Brody, changes all that. He’s getting married on Christmas Eve. So a holiday at Camp Blossom, the rustic sleepaway camp that had been a haven during her growing-up years, it is. Lauren won’t even have to see her dictatorial father. Or her ex-husband, Ben…

When Ben greets her at the surprisingly decrepit cabin, he’s just as stubborn—and as irresistible—as ever. And when she discovers he’s working with her estranged father to buy the campgrounds and rebuild them as luxury housing, Lauren is furious. She won’t let the man who broke her heart win. So she and her daughter stay in town to block the sale.

But the magic of the Christmas season brings back memories Lauren tried so hard to forget: his crooked smile, their daughter’s laughter at the breakfast table, the feel of her hand in his. As the spark between them rekindles, Lauren realizes that second chances are real. And they’re worth fighting for.

Heartfelt holiday goodness! If you’re anything like me, you’re always game for a return trip to Michelle Major’s beloved Magnolia, North Carolina where love seems to find them when they are least looking … and what better time than for a magical holiday wedding? The drama is high, the characters are easy to relate to and the turmoil will keep you turning page after page. I enjoyed my trip to Magnolia as always!

Laurel and Ben were easy to like and their friction was entertaining. I especially liked his kind heart and willingness to put it all on the line for those he loved.

Kayla and Scott were also fun to get to know. I felt for her quite a bit for how she had to try to fit into the family as a step-daughter/sister and once Scott came into the fold and turned her head, it was great to see her shine.

I recommend this book to anyone that enjoys a small town holiday romance filled with strife and family interaction with a whole lot of heart thrown in the mix.

Filed Under: Book Reviews

* Review * MISTLETOE MAGIC IN TAHITI by Kandy Shepherd

October 22, 2023 Leave a Comment

I voluntarily read an early copy of this book.

* Review * MISTLETOE MAGIC IN TAHITI by Kandy Shepherd

Mistletoe Magic in Tahiti by Kandy Shepherd
Series: The Christmas Pact #1
Published by Harlequin Romance on October 24, 2023
Buy on Amazon
Goodreads

Healed…

by a mistletoe kiss?

After a bitter divorce, Sienna is spending Christmas on a Tahitian beach! First stop on her "new me" journey? Surf lessons with blazing-hot water-sports magnate Kai—and quickly adding fling to her itinerary! But Sienna hadn’t factored in falling headfirst for the cautious single dad and his adorable daughter. She knows she can’t stay, but will she walk away from a magical future—together?

This delightful meet-cute is sure to please! The first book in The Christmas Pact trilogy introduces us to the Kendall sisters who find themselves striking out for a holiday on their own chosen by the other two siblings. I was quickly hooked on the premise of the story and once Kai came onto the scene to interact with Sienna, I was sold. Their chemistry is adorable and their fast paced, endearing story held my attention throughout. I can’t wait for Thea and Eliza’s stories!

I recommend this book to anyone that enjoys a destination story that showcases the beauty of an exotic location as a vacation fling simmers and leads to true love.

Filed Under: Book Reviews

* Release Blitz / Review * RISKY GAME by Stacey Lynn

October 17, 2023 Leave a Comment

I voluntarily read an early copy of this book.

* Release Blitz / Review * RISKY GAME by Stacey Lynn

Risky Game by Stacey Lynn
Series: Nashville Steel #4
on October 17, 2023
Buy on Amazon
Goodreads

Romance between them is strictly off-limits, but forbidden attraction has never felt so irresistible…I’m playing a risky game…

I’m the brand new coach of the current Super Bowl Champions. If that isn’t hard enough, I’m also one of the youngest coaches in the league.

Coupled with a recently finalized divorce and the goal to take the team and the city of Nashville's fans by storm, my ex throws me for a loop when she says she’s sending our daughter to me so she can take an extended three-month vacation.

Don’t get me wrong, I love my little girl more than anything but suddenly becoming a full-time single dad and the Steele’s new coach rocks the turf beneath my feet. I need some help and I need it fast.

Enter Ruby Moore.

The answer to my prayers. She’s looking for a new start, is great with kids and is the perfect set of eyes to watch my daughter when I’m not around.

The problem? I think she is perfect for me too.

The other problem? She’s not only my nanny, but she’s also the younger sister of a guy I’m tasked with leading. She’s way too young and sweet for me and the way she loves Amelia makes my heart melt. I don’t expect her perfume to remind me of lazy beach days and for her smiles to become a craving I can’t live without. But I can’t stop thinking about her. Fleeting glances turn into deeper conversations and even more carnal nights.

Soon, she’s a forbidden addiction I can’t quit.

I know I'm playing a Risky Game, but can I keep the woman I've fallen in love with, while still maintaining the respect of the team I’m trying to lead to another Championship?

Quickly addictive and utterly delightful! Stacey Lynn is pouring on so many feels when the new head coach of the Nashville Steel meets his match in the younger sister of one of his players and I was there for every single minute. Great characters filled with warmth and passion, relatable situations and just enough angst to mix well with the feel good moments to make an unputdownable reading delight. I have loved this entire series!

Logan is an easy to like character. He’s successful but very down to earth and getting to see the more personal side of him is heartwarming.

Ruby is a sweetheart. She quickly warmed our hearts with her plight, and her sass was spot on in winning Logan’s heart.

I highly recommend this book as well as the entire series to anyone who enjoys a football romance that is rich with emotion and camaraderie and has a close knit cast of friends and teammates. Light on football, but filled with heart!

Risky Game by Stacey Lynn is now live!

Romance between them is strictly off-limits, but forbidden attraction has never felt so irresistible…I’m playing a risky game…

I’m the brand new coach of the current Super Bowl Champions. If that isn’t hard enough, I’m also one of the youngest coaches in the league.

Coupled with a recently finalized divorce and the goal to take the team and the city of Nashville’s fans by storm, my ex throws me for a loop when she says she’s sending our daughter to me so she can take an extended three-month vacation.

Don’t get me wrong, I love my little girl more than anything but suddenly becoming a full-time single dad and the Steele’s new coach rocks the turf beneath my feet. I need some help and I need it fast.

Enter Ruby Moore.

The answer to my prayers. She’s looking for a new start, is great with kids and is the perfect set of eyes to watch my daughter when I’m not around.

The problem? I think she is perfect for me too.

The other problem? She’s not only my nanny, but she’s also the younger sister of a guy I’m tasked with leading. She’s way too young and sweet for me and the way she loves Amelia makes my heart melt. I don’t expect her perfume to remind me of lazy beach days and for her smiles to become a craving I can’t live without. But I can’t stop thinking about her. Fleeting glances turn into deeper conversations and even more carnal nights.

Soon, she’s a forbidden addiction I can’t quit.

I know I’m playing a Risky Game, but can I keep the woman I’ve fallen in love with, while still maintaining the respect of the team I’m trying to lead to another Championship?

Download today on Amazon, Apple Books, Barnes & Noble, Google Play, and Kobo!

Amazon: https://bit.ly/3QfzJP0

Apple Books: https://bit.ly/45reXAy

Nook: https://bit.ly/45u7ReW

Kobo: https://bit.ly/47RCjkI

Google Play: https://bit.ly/47T4aRl

Add to Goodreads: https://bit.ly/3k5NMsx

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/

Filed Under: Book Reviews, Release Day Blitz

* Review * CONFESSIONS OF A CHRISTMASHOLIC by Joss Wood

October 14, 2023 Leave a Comment

I voluntarily read an early copy of this book.

* Review * CONFESSIONS OF A CHRISTMASHOLIC by Joss Wood

Confessions of a Christmasholic by Joss Wood
Published by One More Chapter on October 19, 2023
Buy on Amazon
Goodreads

Sutton Alsop hates Christmas. So much so, when confronted with a house that looks like Santa himself vomited Christmas all over it, she accidentally (drunkenly) destroys every fairy light, fake reindeer and candy cane in sight. Unfortunately for Sutton, this house belongs to none other than Gus Langston, single dad and owner of the village’s year-round Christmas shop – aka Mr Christmas himself.

But Mr Christmas has a secret only Sutton knows…

With the two of them forced together for the holidays, the sparks between them are hot enough to melt even the coldest of hearts!

This quirky holiday read will melt your heart while tickling your funny bone! Joss Wood is oozing sarcasm in such a delightful way in this feel-good, emotional story of second chances with an English Christmas backdrop painting the story of bliss, while real life rears it’s ugly head here and there to delve into past betrayal, unreliability and falling in love when they least expect it. Utterly delightful overall, but the ending was really weak and needed to give us more to wrap up this great fam.

I recommend this book to anyone that enjoys a small town romance revolving around Christmastime with the ups and downs of life shining bright.

Filed Under: Book Reviews

* Review * HER LAST WORDS by Carolyn Arnold

October 14, 2023 Leave a Comment

I voluntarily read an early copy of this book.

* Review * HER LAST WORDS by Carolyn Arnold

Her Last Words by Carolyn Arnold
Series: Detective Amanda Steele #9
Published by Bookouture on October 17, 2023
Buy on Amazon
Goodreads

The glow from the fireplace throws an eerie light over the woman’s carefully arranged body, her lifeless eyes reflecting the flames that slowly burn the evidence of who did this to her…

When Detective Amanda Steele is called to the brutal murder scene of successful local author Felicity Kelley, her blood runs cold. Because Amanda not only knew the victim, but was the last person Felicity called moments before she was murdered. Plagued with guilt that she never answered, Amanda is left wondering whether she could have prevented the murder, and vows to catch the killer, no matter what.

Desperately searching the crime scene for clues, Amanda is shocked when she discovers a Queen of Hearts playing card, suggesting the murder could be an imitation of a scene from Felicity’s bestselling crime novel. Terrified that she is dealing with a crazed fan who could strike again, Amanda’s worst fears are confirmed when another innocent woman is viciously murdered, with the same chilling calling card left behind.

But when Amanda connects the murders with a cold case from fifteen years ago, a case that Felicity appears to have been researching for her next novel, she is forced to question if the killer’s motive is even more sinister than she first suspected. But the closer Amanda gets to unearthing this motive, the closer she gets to becoming the next victim…

You’ll be hooked from the first page! The author quickly intigues the reader with a new case for Detective Amanda Steel to sink her teeth into that hits a little close to home. I enjoyed the context of the mystery, and while I felt this was a tad weaker story that normal for this series and failed to hold my attention quite as stringently, I thoroughly enjoyed the hook of the whodunnit. I always leave looking forward to more Amanda!

I recommend this book as well as the entire series to anyone who enjoys a series with a strong female lead who puts her heart and soul into solving the crime in her town while having meaningful relationships and drama mixed into the dialogue of each book.

Filed Under: Book Reviews

* Release Blitz/Review * THE DEVIL’S LAIR by Penny Dee

October 6, 2023 Leave a Comment

I voluntarily read an early copy of this book.

* Release Blitz/Review * THE DEVIL’S LAIR by Penny Dee

The Devil's Lair by Penny Dee
Series: De Kysa Mafia #2
on October 6, 2023
Buy on Amazon
Goodreads

Massimo De Kysa.
The man who stole my first kiss.
And now my boss.

I learned early how life can turn on a dime.
That’s how it is when you grow up as a mafia princess.
One minute you’re rich, spoilt, and betrothed to the most revered man in the city—the next you're broke and selling your designer bags so you can eat.

But I’m not the kind of girl who gives up without a fight.
And when someone steals everything from me I’m not afraid to turn to the enemy for help.

He’s a De Kysa. I’m a Bamcorda.
Two rival families from the East Coast.
But it wasn’t always that way.
A year ago, he stole my first kiss and gave me a night to remember.

Since then, he’s changed.
Now he’s a powerful don with the presence of an approaching storm.

He agrees to help me hunt down who stole my inheritance.
But everything comes with a price, especially when you strike a deal with the devil.

Will trusting the enemy get me my life back, or will it cost me everything?

The Devil’s Lair is book 2 in the De Kysa Mafia series. Expect off-the-charts chemistry, Cinderella moments, a plot twist of all plot twists, and all the delectable heat of a mafia romance. For readers 18+. See author’s note for trigger warnings.

Heart-wrenchingly addictive! Fast paced drama, real connections and so many feels! I am loving this De Kysa Mafia series with it’s powerful storylines, steamy romances and danger around every corner. I feel like you need to read the first book in the series to truly have a good connection with this one so that you understand what happened between the families previously, so I would recommend you read the series in order for that reason. I’m hoping there’s more to come with this fam!

Massimo is not your typical mafia don and he lets his softness shine with Bianca. I really liked them together, even from their previous meeting they were just adorable.

Bianca has to pick up the pieces of a shattered life and prove to the world and more importantly herself that she can stand on her own and prosper when she needs to. I loved her tenacity.

I highly recommend this book as well as the entire series to anyone who enjoys a mafia romance with a whole lot of heart below the surface.

Title: The Devil’s Lair

Series: De Kysa Mafia #2

Author: Penny Dee

Genre: Mafia Romance

Tropes: Rival to Lovers/Virgin Heroine/Redemption

Release Date: October 6, 2023

BLURB

Massimo De Kysa.

The man who stole my first kiss.

And now my boss.

I learned early how life can turn on a dime.

That’s how it is when you grow up as a mafia princess.

One minute you’re rich, spoilt, and betrothed to the most revered man in the city—the next your broke and selling your designer bags so you can eat.

But I’m not the kind of girl who gives up without a fight.

And when someone steals everything from me I’m not afraid to turn to the enemy for help.

He’s a De Kysa. I’m a Bamcorda.

Two rival families from the East Coast.

But it wasn’t always that way.

A year ago, he stole my first kiss and gave me a night to remember.

Since then, he’s changed.

Now he’s a powerful don with the presence of an approaching storm.

He agrees to help me hunt down who stole my inheritance.

But everything comes with a price, especially when you strike a deal with the devil.

Will trusting the enemy get my life back, or will it cost me everything?

The Devil’s Lair is book 2 in the De Kysa Mafia series. Expect off-the-charts chemistry, Cinderella moments, a plot twist of all plot twists, and all the delectable heat of a mafia romance. For readers 18+. See author’s note for trigger warnings.

ADD TO GOODREADS

PURCHASE LINKS

AMAZON US / UK / CA / AU

Free in Kindle Unlimited

ALSO AVAILABLE

FREE for a very limited time!

AMAZON US / UK / CA / AU

Always free in Kindle Unlimited

AUTHOR BIO

Penny Dee writes contemporary romance about rock stars, bikers, hockey players and everyone in-between. Her stories bring the suspense, the feels and a whole lot of heat.

She found her happily ever after with an Australian hottie who she met on a blind date.

AUTHOR LINKS

FACEBOOK

FACEBOOK GROUP

INSTAGRAM

AMAZON

BOOKBUB

GOODREADS

TIKTOK

WEBSITE

NEWSLETTER

Filed Under: Book Reviews, Release Day Blitz

* Review * HOT MESS SUMMER by Melissa Foster

October 5, 2023 Leave a Comment

I voluntarily read an early copy of this book.

* Review * HOT MESS SUMMER by Melissa Foster

Hot Mess Summer by Melissa Foster
Published by Montlake on October 17, 2023
Buy on Amazon
Goodreads

Who buys a cottage in a New England fishing village on a whim? A stressed-out, twice-divorced romance writer and single mother looking for a fresh start, that’s who. Despite what my besties say about my three-year dry spell, I’m not looking for a man. Or drama. Or sex. I’ve got enough on my plate with writer’s block and a daughter who refuses to grow up. Community. That’s what I need. Unfortunately, it seems the universe has other ideas. Either Chatemup, Massachusetts, has a serious shortage of single women, or I’ve become a hot mess magnet for the male species.

At least I’ve found one funny, good-hearted friend: fish peddler Declan Miller, my brainstorming adventure buddy who stirs my creative juices. I’m his Writer Girl. He’s my Dimple Dude. Just scruffy, granite-chested, deep-voiced, ex-military brawn who happens to be—oh, Nicole, what are you doing to yourself?—stoking a long-neglected fire without even trying.

A self-confessed hot mess, divorced single dad Declan is too old for relationship games. Not interested. Same here. So why do I keep thinking about him? Preferably naked. Because I’m a hot mess, too? At least he’s inspiring me to write. If only real life were like one of my novels. At least then I’d have a better idea of how this was going to end.

Melissa Foster continually delivers on a new set of best friends just when we need them! HOT MESS SUMMER is heartfelt, steamy and laugh out loud funny. I loved every minute of Nicole and Declan’s story, but for this to be a standalone book, there was a ton of characters to try to keep straight. In all honesty with the world building and character development involved in this one book it could easily become a series out of her two best friends, her daughter, his sons, their parents, the various guys who flirted with her, etc., etc., etc. A tad confusing sometimes, but wholeheartedly enjoyable nonetheless!

Declan … OMG … I wish he would follow me home! Nobody tell my husband alright?!?! Seriously though, he’s just the sweetest, sexy guy around. I adored him even with all of his drama.

Nic is so much fun. She learns to live again and it’s gorgeous to see.

I highly recommend this book to anyone who enjoys a quirky town that is just as much a key part of the story as the main characters as drama, love and angst steal the show.

Filed Under: Book Reviews

* Review * GUARDING COLTON’S CHILD by Lara Lacombe

October 5, 2023 Leave a Comment

Guarding Colton's Child by Lara Lacombe
Series: The Coltons of Grave Gulch #5
Published by Harlequin Romantic Suspense on May 25, 2021
Buy on Amazon
Goodreads

To keep her family safe

He’ll risk everything, even his heart…

After losing his family, Dr. Stavros Makris could never imagine trusting again. So when Desiree Colton rushes her toddler, Danny, to the ER, Stavros must keep things professional with mother and son. But then a kidnapper targets Danny, and Stavros lets down his guard, forging an unbreakable bond with Desiree. As sparks fly between them, they work against the clock to protect the little boy from a criminal closing in…

Intense drama and intrigue right from the start! Lara Lacombe is pouring on the feels with this emotional journey of healing in the Colton’s of Grave Gulch series. I was quickly invested in the characters and their back stories and enjoyed every minute of their connection. The tension is high throughout as danger lurks around the corner. Really enjoying this series!

Stavros was by far my favorite character because he is such a strong guy who picked up the pieces after life dealt him a horrible hand and still found the strength to help others on a daily basis. Love that he is getting a second chance at happiness.

I recommend this book as well as the entire series to anyone who enjoys a fast paced journey filled with mystery, danger and romance.

Filed Under: Book Reviews

* Review * MATCHED BY MISTAKE by Katherine Garbera

October 5, 2023 Leave a Comment

Matched by Mistake by Katherine Garbera
Series: Texas Cattleman's Club: Diamonds & Dating Apps #1
Published by Harlequin Desire on July 25, 2023
Buy on Amazon
Goodreads

When a new dating app matches the members of feuding families, one date for the public leads to sizzling chemistry in the first novel of the Texas Cattleman’s Club: Diamonds & Dating Apps miniseries!

To keep up appearances, they’ll fight an attraction neither expected…

Scandal abounds at the tech fair in Royal, Texas, when a very public dating app snafu matches Jericho Winters with Maggie Del Rio! Their high-profile rival families have been feuding for generations, and both sides agree that their reluctant offspring should go on the date to keep the PR positive and help make the app a success. But Jericho and Maggie never expected to actually like each other. When fake kisses lead to real, undeniable desire, they must choose between burying the family feud to stay together…or destroying each other for good.

Decadently forbidden steamy goodness! Katherine Garbera is delivering the drama from start to finish with her kick-off to the Texas Cattleman’s Club: Diamonds and Dating Apps series and I enjoyed every minute of it! The characters are each very likable and easy to relate to and the warmth they show towards each other even when they are supposed to sort of be enemies is a precursor of what is to come. I’m looking forward to more to come in the series!

Jericho is portrayed as a bit of a playboy, but he truly brings heart and humanity to the plot as a kind man who goes for what he wants in life.

Maggie is loyal and sincere and I enjoyed her wholeheartedly.

I recommend this book to anyone that enjoys a fast paced romance filled with ambitious and successful characters who each bring a lot to the table personality wise.

Filed Under: Book Reviews