Jock Rule by Sara Ney | ARC Review

Jock Rule (Jock Hard #2) by Sara Ney
Publisher: Three Legacies, LLC
Publication Date: December 6, 2018
Genre: New Adult, Contemporary, Romance
Pages: 214
Source: eARC from InkSlinger PR
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Goodreads Description

Kip Carmichael is no pretty boy.

He's a rough. Dirty. Giant. Hair so unruly, and a beard so thick, his friends on the team call him Sasquatch.

The first time Sasquatch lays eyes on Theodora "Teddy" Johnson across the keg at a party one night on Jock Row, she'd been relegated to the sidelines by her jock hungry "friends."

Week-after-week, he watches beautiful but bashful Teddy getting overshadowed, and overlooked. Sasquatch finally broad shoulders his way through the crowd, offering to to be her hairy godmother. But the minute their eyes meet? He's a goner.

Teaching her the RULES for winning a jock will be the easy part. Not falling in love with her is going to be a losing game.

My Thoughts

I wouldn't even know how to begin to explain my level of excitement when I found out I was approved for a review copy of this book. When the first book in the companion series, Jock Row, came out earlier this year I picked it up and finished the book in 2 days. Since I'm a pretty slow reader that's a big deal for me. Jock Row is one of my favorite romances of the year, especially when it comes to new adult romances. Similar to the previous book, Jock Rule follows two characters that meet randomly at a party and their unexpected romance afterwards.

Sara Ney has a way of writing protagonists that I almost immediately feel attached to. Teddy and Kip had some similarities to the characters from the other book but they didn't feel like they were the same people in a different setting. I loved the connection between the two and how their time together throughout the novel progressed. There were moments where I was shocked by the escalation of the physical connection but it never felt like things between Teddy and Kip were rushed.

Another unexpected factor of joy in this story was Kip's family, mainly his sister. When she first appeared I wasn't expecting her to have such a prominent role. However, Kip has consistent communication with his sister throughout the entire novel. I really loved it because they had such a strong sibling relationship and she brought a lot of humor whenever she appeared.

Jock Rule was another book by Sara Ney that I had a lot of fun with while reading. I wish we had a little more time with Teddy and Kip before their story ended but overall I really enjoyed it. I am definitely looking forward to whatever else this author releases in this series!

Love, Sincerely, Yours by Sara Ney and Meghan Quinn | Review

Love, Sincerely, Yours by Sara Ney and Meghan Quinn
Publisher: Self Published
Publication Date: October 9, 2018
Genre: Adult, Contemporary, Romance
Pages: 273
Source: eARC from Ink Slinger PR
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Goodreads Description

Dear Mister...**strike out** no, too formal.
Hey there sweet cheeks *strike out* no, too forward.

To whom it may concern,
Full disclosure; before we move forward with this email, I would like it to be known that I have consumed an adequate amount of alcoholic beverages to intoxicate myself tonight. Three margaritas, two shots, and one beer—because it was free.
I think it’s important to be open and honest with your co-workers, don’t you?
So here I am, being honest. Drunk but honest. Or just drunk with lust? You decide.
I like you so much it’s clouding my judgment and making me do things I never would sober. Like write this letter.
I have a hopeless, foolish, schoolgirl crush on you when you are the last person on earth I should be falling for. Did you know people around the office call you a sadist? An egomaniac. An insensitive, arrogant prick. Your bark is worse then your bite, and you don’t scare me. The fact is, I’d love that bite of yours to nip at my bare skin while we’re both wearing nothing but sheets.
For once I want you to look at me as more than one of your employees. 
And as long as we're being honest, that navy blue suit you wear? With the crisp white shirt? It really makes me want to loosen your tie and show you who’s boss. 
Love,
Sincerely,
Yours.

My Thoughts

When I first saw this book I knew I had to pick it up! Office romances can be hit or miss for me but Love, Sincerely, Yours sounded promising. In this book we are following Peyton who works running the social media for Roam, Inc. Pretty early on she reveals she has a secret crush on her boss and CEO of the company, Rome Blackburn. When she goes out with a few friends she ends up sending Rome an anonymous email with details on how she feels about him.

Oh man!! I was not expecting the slow burn but it was so good! I realized it was going to take about halfway through the book for Rome to realize it was Peyton emailing him and I was worried the romance would feel rushed from that point on. That was not the case. The waiting made that moment right after he found out really intense. Also, it was even better because Rome started noticing Peyton outside of the emails. At this point they had a closer connection than just physical attraction. Although they had this connection and Rome was finally fully aware, they didn't automatically jump into a relationship which I really appreciate.

The pacing of this entire story was amazing! It never felt like anything that happened between Peyton and Rome was happening too fast or slow. I absolutely loved the two characters and the effect they had on each other when they were together. On a bit of a side not the, I was disappointed that one of the subplots wasn't fully developed. Since Rome thinking Peyton betrayed him was a major part of their relationship, I wanted to know who the mole in the company was and if what happened with Peyton was a set up. I had my suspicions but I would have loved a definite answer.

Before starting this book I had already read a couple books by Sara Ney and enjoyed her writing. However, I've never read anything by Meghan Quinn so I wasn't sure what to expect from the two of them. The two authors writing together was magical and I never wanted to put the book down. With the way this book ended I'm guessing these two are planning to collaborate for at least one more book and I can't wait! Love, Sincerely, Yours is on of my new favorites this year and I highly recommend for anyone wants some romance in their life!

Cold Spell by Mia London and Susan Sheehey | Review

Cold Spell (Sweet Escapes #3) by Mia London and Susan Sheehey
Publisher: Amepphire Press
Publication Date: October 3, 2018
Genre: Adult, Contemporary, Romance
Pages: 147
Source: eARC from InkSlinger PR
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Goodreads Description

She can't stand him. He thinks she's never more adorable than when she's angry at him. 

Liddy Drake would rather gamble on double black diamond runs than take a chance on love. Escaping dreary San Francisco for a Colorado mountain resort with her besties is just what the doctor ordered. But an injury on the first day lands her in the lap of a loud-mouthed ski instructor who knows exactly how to get under her skin. She doesn't have time to waste on a playboy with a too-easy laugh and gorgeous blue eyes.

Luke Sawyer left New York ten years ago for the ski runs of Colorado, concealing his identity as a Rothchild heir. He'd seen money change too many people, never for good. Scrappy, sassy, and oh-so-sexy Liddy doesn't fall for the mask of his over-the-top charm. He accepts the challenge to show her his true self.

Their chemistry is enough to melt snow-capped mountains, until she finds out the truth. There's no way her humble background could compete with America's royalty. How can he melt the ice around her heart and convince her that Mr. Wrong is actually Mr. Right, who loves her just the way she is?

My Thoughts

Cold Spell is the third and final book in the Sweet Escapes series. As soon as I realized Hot Spell would be following Jordan I was curious to see how Liddy's love story would play out. At the start of this book Liddy had a pretty tough year after going through a break up and getting drugged on their last vacation. This time around the three friends decide to go to a ski resort right before Thanksgiving. Due to an unexpected injury Liddy has to sit out most of the trip and as a result spends a lot of time with Luke.

I was on the fence about Luke for a while. When he was mentioned I had a feeling he would be the love interest. He seemed a bit obnoxious but not in a terrible way. There was a scene pretty early on where Luke accidentally sees Liddy naked. The scene and Luke's actions in them didn't feel right considering the two main characters didn't know each other. While the situation was funny, Luke's actions were inappropriate. I appreciate that Luke immediately called himself out and thought what he did was wrong, however he never apologized to Liddy or at least talked to her about how he crossed a line. After that scene Luke started to grow on me and I felt like he would be a good match for Liddy.  They had amazing chemistry and in between their intimate moments they talked!

I have mentioned this in reviews of the previous two books but I absolutely love the friendship between Sam, Jordan, and Liddy. They are always supportive of each other but always call one another out when one isn't thinking clearly. I was sad we didn't get to see them together as much in Cold Spell but I still love them. I was also a little disappointed we didn't get a Sam and Chase wedding. Overall I think this was a satisfying conclusion. If you want to read about an amazing friend group, stunning vacations, and swoon worthy men make sure to check out the Sweet Escapes series.

Blood Highway by Gina Wohlsdorf | Review

Blood Highway by Gina Wohlsdorf
Publisher: Algonquin Books
Publication Date: August 7, 2018
Genre: Thriller
Pages: 320
Source: eARC from Publisher
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Goodreads Description

A gripping, surprising, and sexy thriller with a big, pounding heart, Blood Highway takes a seventeen-year-old girl on a brutal journey into adulthood on a road trip that threatens to kill her before she reaches the end.

Rainy Cain, a tough, troubled high school senior, desperately wants to escape the confines of her life in Minneapolis. When her increasingly unstable mother suddenly commits suicide, Rainy thinks she has found her chance. Instead, her father, Sam—who she had always believed died before she was born—escapes from prison and abducts her, taking her on a cross-country trek in pursuit of millions of dollars that he believes her mother had kept from a botched robbery years earlier. On their heels the whole way is a young Minneapolis detective intent on bringing Rainy safely home. It is an odyssey that will test Rainy’s considerable instincts about sanity and madness, and keep readers turning pages till the twisty end.

My Thoughts

ARC provided by Algonquin Books for honest review.

Typically I don't read a lot of thrillers so I never know what to expect when I start one. I was really intrigued after reading the synopsis and was excited to see how the story would play out. Unfortunately, Blood Highway had a bad case of giving away too much of the plot in the description. If so much of the story hadn't been revealed before I even started reading it could've had a stronger impact.

It took me a while to get into this story. The beginning was really confusing and I'm still not completely sure I understood what was going on. We are following 17 year old Rainy as she does her best to deal with the crappy life she's been dealt. It's not clearly stated but it's hinted that her mother might have some type of mental illness. It has gotten so bad it's like Rainey doesn't exist to her mother. She's forced to lie and steal to take care of herself.

I'm not sure if Rainy, or any of the other characters that appeared were meant to be likable. Each were well rounded but they had so many flaws it was hard to feel connected to any of them. I didn't exactly like Rainy but I admired her tenacity, especially when it came to her survival. Throughout the story Rainy made some bad decisions but every step of the way I hoped she would succeed. Also, I wasn't sure how I was supposed to feel about Blaine but I quickly grew to like him. I've never felt so conflicted about a set of character but I was happy Rainy and Blaine were able to be there for each other.

Blood Highway was such a dark, twisted story. It took me a while to wrap my head around some of the things that happened. Some of what happened still makes me feel wrong and violated. There was so much build up throughout the majority of the story and I didn't like the way it ended so suddenly. It left me feeling really unsatisfied with the ending. This was an intriguing and sometimes unsettling story but there was too much that felt missing for me to enjoy it more.

Trigger warnings for abduction, extreme violence, drug use, suicide, child neglect.

Hot Spell by Mia London and Susan Sheehey | Review

Hot Spell (Sweet Escapes #2) by Mia London and Susan Sheehey
Publisher: Amepphire Press
Publication Date: September 5, 2018
Genre: Adult, Contemporary, Romance
Pages: 123
Source: eARC from InkSlinger PR
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Goodreads Description

She never trusted unconditional love. He never believed he'd be worthy. 

Almost-Olympian gymnast Jordan Beck has coordinated an emergency vacation getaway in Puerto Vallarta for her broken-hearted bestie. Nightly parties, exotic drinks, and sandy beaches are just what she has in mind for her and her friends. She strives for perfection in everything she does and believes she's found it in the emerald-eyed bartender who doesn't back down from her challenge.

Zac Durant learned early on that life is a gift and he's determined to live his to the fullest. Scuba, surfing, tending bar by the ocean, his abuelita's tamales. He's content--until a Latina beauty struts across his pool patio and orders his best drink. Zac isn't the kind to hook up with the resort guests but Jordan changes his mind.

Zac and Jordan know this sensual interlude in paradise is a vacation fling but when sparks turn to fireworks, they are tempted to believe in something real. The illusion of perfection vanishes and Jordan panics, erecting walls around her cautious heart, sabotaging their chance at happily ever after. It is up to Zac to prove that unconditional love is worth a shot at the gold.

My Thoughts

Hot Spell is the second book in the Sweet Escapes companion series. This book follows Jordan as she finds love when the girls take a vacation in Mexico to help Liddy get over her recent breakup. I was so excited going into this sequel/companion because I had so much fun while reading Dry Spell. Sadly I didn't have that same giddy feeling as I did reading the previous book.

If you've read my review of Dry Spell you'll remember I mentioned being concerned that the length of the book wouldn't leave enough room for the story to fully develop. While I didn't feel like it was a problem in that book I think Hot Spell could've benefited from being longer. There was quite a bit going on in the story and there wasn't enough time for each of these aspects to shine.

With that being said, I still think Hot Spell was an enjoyable read. Just like in Dry Spell my favorite part was the characters. I love the friendship between Sam, Jordan, and Liddy! They are always supportive but are never afraid to call each other out when they believe another is making a mistake. I also fell in love with Zac and his grandmother. This was a quick, fun read and I'm looking forward to seeing how things are rounded out in Cold Spell.

Ten Reasons to Stay by Candace Knoebel | Review

Ten Reasons to Stay (The Risky Hearts Duet #1) by Candace Knoebel
Publisher: Self Published
Publication Date: August 29, 2018
Genres: Adult, Contemporary, Romance
Pages: 238
Source: eARC from InkSlinger PR
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Goodreads Description

One day a week—Thursdays—my husband and I could do whatever or whomever we pleased.
Protection was non-negotiable.
And no matter what, we had to be home by midnight. 

Jack was the one who wanted an open marriage, but we were supposed to keep things simple. No strings. No commitments. It seemed so easy… until it wasn’t.

Devilishly handsome Cole Blackwater was only supposed to be a fling, but everything about him made me feel alive. Wanted. Seen. When I realized he was my husband’s boss, I should have broken things off right then… but I didn’t.

One day a week, I could pretend that I was his and he was mine… until Cole wanted more.

But how could I decide between the man I’d promised to love, honor, and cherish, and the man who tempted me to break every single vow I’d made?

My Thoughts

I never thought the day would come where I would pick up a book centered around an open marriage. It's not something I could ever see myself agreeing to which was why I was so intrigued to see how everything would play out. Let me just start by saying I was not ready for the emotional rollercoaster Ten Reasons to Stay took me on.

For about 80% of this book I was frustrated with Corrine. She allowed herself to get into this situation even when it was not something she wanted. Also, I didn't agree with her way of thinking. Corrine had this idea that she was there to provide for her husband while completely disregarding her own wants and goals. Anytime her husband, Jack, made a suggestion or told her what to do Corrine would go along with it, no questions asked most of the time, in order to please him. This continued until it got to the point where Jack suggested they should have an open marriage. Once again she went along with it because she thought it would make Jack happy.

"Aren't we all searching for sunlight? For that warmth from the brightest touch that lets us finally breath."

Hands down the best part of this whole book was Cole Blackwater! I loved him almost from the very beginning. He came into the picture and showed Corrine exactly how she should be treated. Cole challenged every thought Corrine had of how marriage should be. Like I mentioned before this story had my emotions all over and half of that had to do with Cole. As much as he tried to hide it, Cole was incredibly vulnerable in their agreement. He was always willing to follow Corrine's lead even when he wanted so much more.

Throughout the book I enjoyed being able to see Cole pull Corrine out of the shell she was in and help her realize she deserved more than she was getting. I never thought I would become so invested in a story dealing with a failing marriage where the people in the relationship just tried to patch up the holes instead of actually addressing the problem. The entire situation was messy! This story broke my heart and put the pieces back together. Essentially Ten Reasons to Stay is about finding your worth and never settling. With all that being said, if this author can continue to deliver this level of emotional impact I am looking forward to reading more from her.

Liar by Stephanie St. Klaire | ARC Review

Liar (Faux-Mance #1) by Stephanie St. Klaire
Publisher: Self-Published
Publication Date: August 23, 2018
Genre: Adult, Contemporary, Romance
Pages: 190
Source: eARC from InkSlinger PRR
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Goodreads Description

Fake it until you make it. That was the mantra Cori Dash chanted as she chased a big city dream. The more you tell people you’re on top of the world, the more they believe it – just like they believed the embellished image she sold them with her knock off designer facade. It wasn’t lying if the truth stood somewhere in the middle – and she didn’t get caught. 

Dominic Blackthorne owned half of that big city…and a reputation. Rather than dispel rumors or show the world the real Nick, he let his own fake image run free. Until Cori Dash – the only person who told him exactly how it was, even if it stung. 

When Cori is faced with her ex-fiance, now engaged to her ex-best friend, it’s game on. In her boldest move yet, she concocts her biggest lie to date by introducing the first handsome stranger that walks by as her new fiancé. Happy to play the part, Nick is already planning the fake wedding of her dreams. 

You know what they say about lying – the truth always comes out – and it hurts. Especially when Cori finds out she isn’t the biggest Liar in this game, and she’s been out played. 

My Thoughts

Going into Liar I was a little worried. I had read one book by this author and while I liked the idea of that story I didn't really like how it turned out. Fake relationships are one of my favorite tropes in romance novels. That coupled with the rest of the description made this sound like a book I would love which is why I decided to give it a try.

Liar wasn't exactly what I was expecting after reading the synopsis but it had such a strong start. The beginning played out like it would in a movie, from Cori latching on to the first stranger she made eye contact with after running into her ex-fiancé to Cori and Nick pretending to be engaged, and I was loving it. I'm not sure if it was meant to be funny but I even laughed a few times at how childish Cori and her ex-best friend were acting. Even Nick joined in at moments and I thought it was hilarious how messy the entire situation was.

About halfway through this book is when things started falling apart. I didn't know going into this the story was meant to be a novella and not a normal length novel. In this case, the story wasn't as good as it could've been if it had the extra time to truly come alive. The author spent so much time setting up the fake relationship and the very beginning of their arrangement that there wasn't enough time for everything else. Even though they were in a fake relationship there were some missed opportunities to show off some significant moments between the two main characters. Most of the important moments were rushed through or were completely missing for example, their first kiss, them realizing they might have a feelings for each other, and other little moments like that. I had this feeling that I missed out getting to see them connect on the romantic side of their relationship.

While I didn't enjoy feeling like I was being rushed through the second half of the story, by the time we got to that I was already invested in the characters and I didn't care too much. In the end I still wanted Cori and Nick to have their happy ending. If you are considering checking out Liar keep in mind some of the things I mentioned above if they'll have a big impact on your enjoyment while reading. With that being said, I feel like Stephanie St. Klaire is one of those authors whose writing improves with each new book release.

Dry Spell by Mia London and Susan Sheehey | ARC Review

Dry Spell (Sweet Escapes #1) by Mia London and Susan Sheehey
Publisher: Amepphire Press
Publication: August 1, 2018
Genre: Adult, Contemporary, Romance
Pages: 187
Source: eARC from InkSlinger PR
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Goodreads Description

Samantha Callahan fights hard to succeed in a man’s world. At the top of her game with a promotion nearly in her grasp, nothing can stand in her way, not even greedy competitors or a crashed laptop. So, an overdue and well-deserved vacation to the beach with the girls shouldn’t put her on edge. But perhaps Sam’s head has been down in the trenches for so long, she’s forgotten how to enjoy life. 

Chase Bradshaw is the classic hottie next door—a nice man who happens to surf as well as he sizzles in the bedroom. He ditched corporate America for the stress-free salt life, and to follow his dreams. When Sam walks onto his beach, he can practically see the uptight personality oozing from her pores. The woman looks like she could use something other than work to keep her up at night. 

Lucky for her, Chase is just the man to coax the conservative right out of her. 

My Thoughts

Dry Spell was a pleasant surprise for me. Usually I try to go into a book feeling neutral however I was a little concerned when I realized this book was listed as only being 187 pages. I worried that since there wasn't a lot of time work through a story line everything would feel rushed. Once I started reading I grew even more concerned after seeing that the story was told in third person POV. I'll be the first to admit sometimes I find it hard for me to get into stories told in third person and I really don't like it in romance novels. As you can see from my rating none of those things were an issue when it came to this story.

The POV did take me a little time to adjust to but what I love was that it didn't keep me from connecting with the characters. I acknowledge that this story took place over a short amount of time, and there were moments I felt the main characters were moving fast, but I never questioned their feelings for each other. The authors made me believe anything is possible with the right person. One of my favorite parts about Chase and Sam's relationship was that they were able to have an emotional connection in between the steamy bits. Those moments helped make me feel like their feelings were more than surface level. I also really loved Sam's friends and the relationship between them.

I've never read anything by Mia London or Susan Sheehey so I have no personal experience with their writing. In this story they managed to come together and blend their writing seamlessly. With less than 200 pages they we're able to make me fall in love with the characters and experience each emotion right along with them. Without a doubt I will be continuing the series. I definitely recommend supporting Mia and Susan by picking up Dry Spell!

I Flipping Love You by Helena Hunting | ARC Review

I Flipping Love You (Shacking Up #3) by Helena Hunting
Publisher: St. Martin's Paperbacks
Publication Date: May 29, 2018
Genre: Adult, Contemporary, Romance
Pages: 320
Source: eARC from Publisher
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Goodreads Description

A new kind of love story about flipping houses, taking risks, and landing that special someone who’s move-in ready…

SHE’S GOT CURB APPEAL

Rian Sutter grew up with the finer things in life. Spending summers in The Hamptons was a normal occurrence for her until her parents lost everything years ago. Now Rian and her sister are getting their life, and finances, back on track through real estate. Not only do they buy and sell houses to the rich and famous, but they finally have the capital to flip their very own beachfront property. But when she inadvertently catches the attention of a sexy stranger who snaps up every house from under her, all bets are off…

HE’S A FIXER UPPER

Pierce Whitfield doesn’t normally demo kitchens, install dry wall, or tear apart a beautiful woman’s dreams. He’s just a down-on-his-luck lawyer who needed a break from the city and agreed to help his brother work on a few homes in the Hamptons. When he first meets Rian, the attraction is undeniable. But when they start competing for the same pieces of prime real estate, the early sparks turn into full-blown fireworks. Can these passionate rivals turn up the heat on their budding romance — without burning down the house?

I FLIPPING LOVE YOU, set in the Shacking Up world, follows two people, both working in real estate, who find themselves vying for the same properties in the Hamptons, leading to a sometimes-not-so-friendly competition.

My Thoughts

I Flipping Love You is the third book in the Shacking Up companion series. I wasn't expecting another book in this series so I was really excited when I fount out it would be part of it. I Flipping Love You follows Rian and Pierce (whose sister Amalie was the main character in Hooking Up which I loved!!). The two end up meeting when Pierce mistakes Rian for her twin. After their first encounter they continue to run into each other.

I thought this story following Pierce and Rian was adorable. At the beginning they are both pretty guarded because of past experiences but Pierce is a lot more open to the possibility of something happening. On the other hand Rian has been closed off for so long and she only allows herself to fully open up to her sister since it has been just the two of them for so long. As she starts to accept that she might want more than a casual fling with Pierce she allows him to see more of her and where she came from. I really enjoyed seeing the progression of their relationship throughout the story.

Since I've read and reviewed Hooking Up I have gone back and read Shacking Up. After having read all three now there were some things that stood out and made me a little disappointed in this one when compared with the other two. There were times when I found it hard to keep track of the passing time. Several times in the book one line would be talking about the current time and the very next line jumped to week or more later. I think this could've been easily solved with mid-chapter breaks. Another thing that really stood out to me was the lack of use of the side characters. Don't get me wrong, the side characters were there but the majority of the story took place inside a bubble where only Rian and Pierce and existed.

While Hooking Up was my favorite of the three, I Flipping Love You was a light, fun read with lots of humor thrown in. This was truly a story of a chance meeting and falling in love. I'm not sure if Helena Hunting has any plans for another book in this series but I would definitely pick it up if she does!

Marked by Drew Elyse | ARC Review

Marked (Sailor's Grave #1) by Drew Elyse
Publisher: Self Published
Publication Date: May 15, 2018
Genre: Adult, Contemporary, Romance
Pages: 262
Source: eARC from InkSlinger PR
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Goodreads Description

“MOVING ON” IS JUST ABOUT ACTING THE PART. 

I would never say as much to the people I love, but it’s the truth. 
They want to see me doing better. 
They want to see me living for more than just my son. 
So I let them. 
Every day is about putting on a face, 
pretending to get over the loss of my husband. 
And every day is a lie. 

UNTIL MOVING ON IS A TEMPTATION THAT CAN’T BE DENIED. 

I’m not about to claim I’m a genius, 
unless we’re talking with a tattoo gun or woman in my hands, 
but I’m smart enough to know the beauty serving up my cupcake fix is off limits. 
Really, I know. 
Too bad the lure of putting a real smile on Kate’s face is so strong. 
When she visits Sailor’s Grave Tattoo Parlor, 
I can’t help but want to leave my mark.

My Thoughts

Going into this book I was really interested in the concept. I love reading about characters that get a second chance at a one of a kind romance. Marked follows Kate and Liam. Kate lost her husband in a tragic accident 3 years before the start of the story and she hasn't gotten to the point where she is truly living agin. Liam is a tattoo artist in the town that Kate is currently living in with her son.


Honestly, I had some mixed opinions about this story. From the synopsis I knew a big part of this story was going to be Kate grieving and pretending to move on. Liam understands Kate isn't in the right place to start a romantic relationship. Even though he's interested in more Liam offers Kate friendship, or at the very least someone to talk to. The two start to grow closer when Liam starts working on Kate's tattoo. During the time they spend together Kate starts to realize she might be ready to move on.

One of my big worries while reading was this would be a situation where a new love/relationship cures everything Kate had been dealing with for the past 3 years. For a while it seemed like the story was going in that direction. Thankfully the author didn't take that route. Instead there was a focus on wanting to make a change for the right person. On another note I didn't care for the writing, mainly the use of flashbacks. They were overdone and at times made it hard to get a grasp on the movement of time.

While I didn't care for the writing I really enjoyed the journey this author took me on. Marked showed that people grieve in many different ways. Even though Kate spent 3 years just going through the motions for her son. she couldn't truly move on until she was ready. Being able to see the progression of Kate and Liam's relationship form the beginning to the end of this story was truly beautiful.

Royals by Rachel Hawkins | ARC Review

Royals by Rachel Hawkins
Publisher: Penguin Random House
Publication Date: May 1, 2018
Genre: YA, Contemporary, Romance
Pages: 304
Source: eARC from Edelweiss
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Goodreads Description

Meet Daisy Winters. She’s an offbeat sixteen-year-old Floridian with mermaid-red hair; a part time job at a bootleg Walmart, and a perfect older sister who’s nearly engaged to the Crown Prince of Scotland. Daisy has no desire to live in the spotlight, but relentless tabloid attention forces her to join Ellie at the relative seclusion of the castle across the pond. 

While the dashing young Miles has been appointed to teach Daisy the ropes of being regal, the prince’s roguish younger brother kicks up scandal wherever he goes, and tries his best to take Daisy along for the ride. The crown–and the intriguing Miles–might be trying to make Daisy into a lady . . . but Daisy may just rewrite the royal rulebook to suit herself.

My Thoughts

Royals follows 16 year old Daisy Winters as she's thrown into the life of royalty after her older sister gets engaged to a prince. Since her sister Ellie started dating Alex, the Crown Prince of Scotland, Daisy has received unwanted attention. After an unsavory article is released involving her ex-boyfriend, it is suggested Ellie go to Scotland for the summer to stay out of any further trouble. However that seems to have the opposite effect.

I had some mixed opinions while reading Royals. I liked Daisy as a character. I felt she was a unique character and pretty funny at times. However, I felt like at times she was extremely whiny and selfish. From the beginning of the story she talks about how her sister's new life is basically a disaster for her. We soon find out she doesn't have the best relationship with Ellie because of some things that happened as she was growing up. Throughout the story I kept hoping they would sit down and talk. At the very least come to an understanding and stop being so hostile towards each other. It took almost the entire book for this moment to happen and while I was happy it happened I felt like it should've happened sooner than the last couple chapters.

On another note, I thought the entire royal family was messed up! I liked that the siblings have a pretty good relationship with each other but there were so many other things going on in the background that I couldn't appreciate it. I think a major part of this was because a large part of this story focused on the tabloids and how much people cared about what was depicted in them.

Overall, I thought Royals was a fun read. While I had some issues with some of the characters I enjoyed being able to see some of them grow during the time I spent with them. By the end the story did feel a little rushed and unfinished. However I have seen there's supposed to be a sequel/companion so hopefully we'll get the wedding in that book. If you want a fun and possible quick YA contemporary Royals might be what you're looking for.

Very Irresistible Playboy by Lila Monroe | ARC Review

Very Irresistible Playboy (Billionaire Bachelors #1) by Lila Monroe
Publisher: Self-Published
Publication Date: January 22, 2018
Genre: Adult, Contemporary, Romance
Pages: 210
Source: eARC from InkSlinger PR
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Goodreads Description

Hot bachelor Max Carlisle is heir to a media empire, tabloid catnip, and... wants to hire me to be his fake fiancee. I know what it takes to keep a billionaire in line, but signing up for seven days in close quarters with this Very Irresistible Playboy? It's just asking for trouble. The kind of thrilling, reckless trouble I could use a little more of since my career is currently ass-backwards in a mud bath with six shih-tzus (don't ask). So do I: a) Take the job, and bicker wildly every step of the way? b) Embark on a mad-cap treasure hunt to claim his billion-dollar inheritance? c) Try my hardest not to fall head-over-heels in love with him and wind up having the best sex of my life? d) All of the above? Something tells me I'm about to be way out of my league... and under the most handsome, infuriating man I've ever met. But with a fortune on the line, can we beat out his crazy relatives to win the prize? And will our fake relationship be game over at the finish line? Find out in the new sexy, hilarious romantic comedy!

My Thoughts

Very Irresistible Playboy wasn't the story I was expecting based off the description. This book follows Hallie and Max. Hallie is an aspiring photographer working as an assistant at the moment in order to make ends meet. At the beginning of this book Hallie is helping out at a weeding and afar some unfortunate circumstances her only camera ends up ruined and she's out a job. From there things continue to go downhill for Hallie until she meets someone who might have a job opportunity for her. One thing leads to another and she agrees to be the fake girlfriend fo Max for 7 days while goes to spend time with his family.

The general idea for this story was different from anything I've read centered around a fake relationship. However, I did find the plot predictable. It was pretty clear almost from the beginning where these characters were headed and at times it was frustrating watching them act like it wasn't happening. Still, it was nice being able to see the progression of their relationship from the beginning to the end of the story. Very Irresistible Playboy was a quick, fun read and I'm definitely looking forward to the next book in the series.

A Princess in Theory by Alyssa Cole | ARC Review

A Princess in Theory (Reluctant Royals #1) by Alyssa Cole
Publisher: Avon Romance
Publication Date: February 27, 2018
Genre: Adult, Contemporary, Romance
Pages: 384
Source: eARC from Edelweiss
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Goodreads Description

Between grad school and multiple jobs, Naledi Smith doesn’t have time for fairy tales…or patience for the constant e-mails claiming she’s betrothed to an African prince. Sure. Right. Delete! As a former foster kid, she’s learned that the only things she can depend on are herself and the scientific method, and a silly e-mail won’t convince her otherwise.

Prince Thabiso is the sole heir to the throne of Thesolo, shouldering the hopes of his parents and his people. At the top of their list? His marriage. Ever dutiful, he tracks down his missing betrothed. When Naledi mistakes the prince for a pauper, Thabiso can’t resist the chance to experience life—and love—without the burden of his crown.

The chemistry between them is instant and irresistible, and flirty friendship quickly evolves into passionate nights. But when the truth is revealed, can a princess in theory become a princess ever after? 

My Thoughts

A Princess in Theory is an adult contemporary romance following Naledi Smith. Naledi is currently in graduate school studying epidemiology while also working a couple jobs. She doesn't have time to focus on anything but school and work. One day she receives an email saying she's betrothed to an African prince. Since Naledi is an orphan and has been in and out of the foster system most of her life, she doesn't think it's possible and someone is trying to scam her. However it turns out that it's true and Prince Tabiso is hoping to meet her while in the United States for business. When Thabiso shows up at Naledi's job she mistakes him for a new coworker. Thabiso decides to play along in order to get to know Naledi without revealing who he is.

I really enjoyed the journey these two characters went on throughout the novel. Naledi starts in a place where she is working towards her desired career while overworking herself to not take care of herself but not be seen as a specific stereotype. She has grown used to not having anyone to rely on so she has made it so it's hard for anyone to get close to her. On the other hand, Thabiso comes from a place of privilege. Being the sole heir to the throne of Thesolo he has grown up in the spotlight with everything he could ever want. He still isn't completely happy because being the sole heir there's a lot everyone expects of him, especially his parents.

Throughout the story the characters had to learn about their own faults and how to overcome them while getting to know each other. There were times when the story was slow for me. Also, I wish there was more time spent in Thesolo with Naledi getting to learn more about where she's from and spending time with her living family. Overall I really enjoyed this story and now want to read more from Alyssa Cole.

Making Sense by Lila Rose | ARC Review

Making Sense by Lila Rose
Publisher: Self Published
Publication Date: March 6, 2018
Genre: Adult, Contemporary, Romance
Pages: 308
Source: eARC from InkSlinger PR
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Goodreads Description

Adalyn Sage. 

I'm thirty-seven, a mother, a divorcee, and I’m ready to date again. 
I need a man willing to love me for who I am, despite what size I am. Only finding such a guy is harder than it’s cracked up to be. Afterall, I'm a little clumsy and just a tad outspoken… that is unless I’m in front of a man so good-looking my panties melt. Then I become an absolute weirdo. 

Case in point: Vice Salvatore. Stunning. Growly. And also my boss. 
Thank God his a**hole attitude put my racing heart at ease and changed my lust to hate. 

Nope. I don’t care for him. Won’t. I’ll continue to ignore my ladybits and stay strong. 

At least for a while.

My Thoughts

Making Sense follows Adalyn Sage, a 37 year old single mother since her divorce. She is looking to start dating again but isn't having much luck. After taking a co-worker's night shift Adalyn meets Vice Salvator, the owner of the store. As can be expected an unlikely romance between the two begins.

I enjoyed the story and thought the romance was really cute. It was interesting seeing the progression between Adalyn and Vice from the time they met up until the end of their story. Adalyn is extremely awkward around men she finds attractive. This lead to hilarious moments of Adalyn rambling about whatever she's thinking about at the moment. While at times I felt like their relationship moved a little fast, for the most part I didn't really mind. Making Sense was a fun, and at times, steamy romance story that had me swooning with Adalyn.

Twisted Fate by Jessi Elliott | ARC Review

Twisted Fate by Jessi Elliott
Publisher: Self-Published
Publication Date: February 13, 2018
Genre: New Adult, Paranormal, Romance
Pages: 296
Source: eARC from Author
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Goodreads Description

Being kidnapped by the leader of the fae really puts a dent in your senior year. 

Aurora Marshall is sharp, witty, and always has a plan. Ready to finish her business degree and graduate, her life is going smoothly—until the night she meets Tristan Westbrook. 

Tristan, the overbearing, gorgeous Fae Leader, and an admired businessman in the human world, is all kinds of dangerous. While he finds Aurora intriguing, her refusal to bend to his will keeps them locked in a constant power struggle. 

Entering into a deal is the only way to escape Tristan’s clutches, which only plunges Aurora deeper into the fae world. With her future at stake, she is forced to handle his arrogance and extraordinary fae abilities as she fights to stay grounded in her mundane life. 

Not to mention her struggle to ignore the growing attraction she knows she shouldn’t feel for the man who kidnapped her. 

When people said college would be the most exciting time of her life, Aurora never thought this is what they meant.

My Thoughts

Twisted Fate follows Aurora, a senior in college about to graduate with a business degree. At the beginning of her second to last semester she goes out to a party with a couple friends to enjoy herself before the year gets too stressful. Not long after arriving to the party she wanders off to find the bathroom and ends up getting kidnapped. Aurora discovers that fate exist and she is being held hostage by Tristan, a Fae Leader.

I was a little disappointed that I didn't enjoy Twisted Fate as much as I was hoping to. The plot was entertaining but it didn't feel like it was developed enough. There was such a big focus on the romance between the two main characters and because of this I felt like that took away time that could've been used for other parts of the story.

With all that being said I'm still interested in Twisted Gift, the sequel to Twisted Fate. The ending of this book went in a direction I wasn't fully expecting. There are also a lot of unanswered questions that I need a solution to. While this story didn't completely hit the mark for me, the storyline has a lot of potential.

You Will Be Mine by Natasha Preston | ARC Review

You Will Be Mine by Natasha Preston
Publisher: Sourcebooks Fire
Publication Date: February 6, 2018
Genre: YA, Thriller
Pages: 304
Source: eARC from InkSlinger PR
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Goodreads Description

Love turns deadly in a new, heart-pounding thriller from Natasha Preston, author of the runaway bestsellers The Cellar and The Cabin.

ROSES ARE RED

VIOLETS ARE BLUE

WATCH YOUR BACK

I’M COMING FOR YOU

Lylah and her friends can’t wait to spend a night out together. Partying is the perfect way to let loose from the stress of life and school, and Lylah hopes that hitting the dance floor with Chase, her best friend, will bring them closer together. She’s been crushing on him since they met. If only he thought of her the same way…

The girls are touching up their makeup and the guys are sliding on their coats when the doorbell rings. No one is there. An envelope sits on the doormat. It’s an anonymous note addressed to their friend Sonny. A secret admirer? Maybe. They all laugh it off.

Except Sonny never comes home. And a new note arrives:

YOUR TURN

My Thoughts

You Will Be Mine is a mystery/thriller that takes place around Valentine's Day. This book centers around Lylah and her group of friends right before they are about to go out to a Valentine's themed play. Right before they leave there's a creepy note that has been left on their doorstep made using letters clipped from magazines. They all play it off as a prank but that changes when Sonny never comes home.

I didn't enjoy this book as much as I was expecting to. The mystery element was really interesting and what made me want to push through the story. However, there were more elements that I had problems with than I enjoyed. I didn't care for any of the characters. One person made a suggestion of who might be behind what was going on and they all just blindly went along with it even though there wasn't any proof. It frustrated me that characters constantly made terrible decisions even when they knew what they were doing was wrong. Also, I didn't find it very believable the way the investigators handled the whole situation. Overall, I thought this was an okay thriller but it's not one I would recommend for everyone.