I really enjoyed this story. The writing is smooth and the story moves along drawing the reader with it. I felt like I was dropped into their lives and felt like I k ew them. It did seem to slow down about half to three quarters of the way through making this seem a little overlong. There was too much time, in my opinion, spent on tour detailing their life. Some of that could have been omitted to keep the storyline moving and the reader mot getting bored.
The author does an excellent job building these characters. Blu with his determination to get the girl. His swoon worthy singing and thoughtfulness made him a memorable personality. His realization going from playboy to boyfriend. Ashleigh did a great job keeping her head about her. My only issue is how quickly she went back to trusting and believing him. Seemed a little unrealistic.
I want to give a “Hey” to a special character. I liked his Mom as a good secondary character. I missed how we never got her story on why she stays in the house and at her job. Anyway I love how she doesn’t see him as a rockstar…just her son. That is cool! She is a positive upbeat lady.
Overall this is a wonderful read. I struggled to put it down multiple times because it is so good. I look forward to reading more in this series.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Lisa Helmickhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngLisa Helmick2023-08-30 05:30:082023-09-09 12:25:57Sing For Me (The Balefire Series Book 2) by Tam DeRudder Jackson – Review by Lisa Helmick
Yet another fantastic Bluestone Series book! After having read about Teddy in the previous books, it was great to see him get his turn! Summer is definitely a fiery character and I’ve always been a fan of the trope where the leads grew up together and now years later…! Once again, highly recommended!!
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Gillianhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngGillian2023-08-29 23:49:212023-09-09 12:24:41Love Shots (Bluestone Series Book 4) by Isobel Reed – Review by Gillian Fawell
I accidentally read this as the 2nd of my Bluestone Series but it didn’t matter – although there were references to the two characters from book 2, I was still able to become quickly absorbed in the story of Lily and Ace! I love a good fake romance story and this one certainly didn’t disappoint! Highly recommended and I will be reading more from this series!
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Gillianhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngGillian2023-08-29 23:40:592023-09-09 12:24:30Hero Complex (Bluestone Series Book 3) by Isobel Reed – Review by Gillian Fawell
The first in the Bluestone Series and my first book by this author, but it quickly became one of many in both categories! Lily is a fiery heroine with a past and Jake is everything you want in an alpha male – strong, working with animals, caring, fights for what he wants… I could go on! The writing style keeps you reading late into the night and the plot line keeps you guessing! Highly recommended!
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Gillianhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngGillian2023-08-29 23:33:432023-09-09 12:24:17Love Tools (Bluestone Series Book 1) by Isobel Reed – Review by Gillian Fawell
This book about Mitch and Mia was a great read. Reading their story and how things ended was very satisfying. I have never hated a villain character more then I hated Lacey. At first I was unsure about everything that was going on, but then that pivotal point happened and I hated her with a fiery passion from then on. Mia tried so hard to get over her husband’s death, and when she lost Mitch, she decided not to let it slow her down. She had a lot of strength that was admirable. There were times I wanted to smack Mitch upside the head for not seeing the blatant lies that was right in front of his eyes, but they do say that love is blind…
I could relate to the writer’s block the main character, Adrian, was going through! The author weaves backstory into each of the characters which brings life to them on the page. This story is an adventure of self-discovery and introspection. It was an action packed story that will keep the pages turning!
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Brandy Vaughnhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngBrandy Vaughn2023-08-29 22:24:472023-09-09 12:23:26A Rainbow Like You by Andréa Fehsenfeld – Review by Brandy Vaughn
Teddy falls and falls hard in this book. He and Summer are childhood friends who haven’t seen one another for several years, when Summer comes home. It’s fast and furious and pretty hot and sweet at the same time.
There is something incredibly sexy about a man who goes all in and Protector for his woman. I know there are several woman who have this kind of devotion from their men, mine may not be super alpha but I have no doubts he loves me though an alpha isn’t a horrible thing to dream about.
Summer is a strong independent woman who tried to live life outside of Bluestone, but after some time she found her way home. Life in a small town isn’t supposed to change much no matter how long you have been gone. Unfortunately someone forgot to mention that to this town.
I have loved each of the books I have read in this series and hope there are more in the future. Maybe Teddy’s friend Tyler???
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Robin Rankinhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngRobin Rankin2023-08-29 21:34:302023-09-09 12:23:13Love Shots (Bluestone Series Book 4) by Isobel Reed – Review by
Love Shots by Isobel Reed is available now in eBook and Physical Book ⭐️⭐️⭐⭐⭐ Book Review
Love Shots is the fourth installment of the Bluestone Series. In this short, friends to lovers, romance we are introduced to Teddy and Summer. At first I was pretty sure Summer was crazy. And Teddy, well he just seemed like the hottie who got away. A few chapters in and I was totally in love with these two characters. Teddy was so caring, gentle, and overall so very sincere. Summer was damaged, running from her past, looking for a new beginning but no matter where she turned, the evil of her past haunted her. I loved how Reed kept everything at a slow steady pace. None of this story/romance felt rushed. Both characters had a past that caused them to shy away but they were able to use one another as buffers and figure out how to move on and love again. They were just perfect for one another in so many ways. This was a very short read and I didn’t want it to end. I would highly recommend this novel to anyone who enjoys romance. I will definitely be heading over now to pick up more novels from this series/author.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Ashley Mertzhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngAshley Mertz2023-08-29 20:14:182023-09-09 12:22:42Love Shots (Bluestone Series Book 4) by Isobel Reed – Review by Ashley Mertz
I’ve read two out of the three books in this series and absolutely Reed’s style of writing is so subtle and easy to understand on what’s going on in Bluestone County. The books in this series can be read as stand alone but honestly if you read others, you really look forward to what happens in this small town. It is like visiting a place you really enjoy. This one focuses on Summer, who has just left a volatile relationship and wants to start fresh. There is also Teddy, retired Navy SEAL, who is coming back to his hometown, looking for the same fresh start, when he runs into an old friend at his bar in which he recently took over from the former owner. Summer gets angry at Teddy for taking over the bar and shows him how angry she is. Teddy and Summer used to be old friends. Teddy doesn’t want his second chance to let feelings slip away. The chemistry between Summer and Teddy is amazing!
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Jennifer Ramoshttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngJennifer Ramos2023-08-29 19:12:542023-09-05 15:01:50Love Shots (Bluestone Series Book 4) by Isobel Reed – Review by Jennifer Ramos
Having read and enjoyed the previous book in this series I was looking forward to being back with the members of the band, Balefire, and I was not disappointed. This is lead singer Blu’s story, his entire life is his music and he loves everything that comes with it, “sex, booze and rock ‘n’ roll”. Whilst touring with the band Blu has his pick of female groupies and celebrities keen to be seen with him, and he’s usually fine with one night flings, until he meets Ashleigh. Ashleigh Baker is the girl next door who spends her days creating flower show pieces, in her cute floppy hat and with dirt on her knees. Unfortunately for Blu, whilst she’s all he can think about, she just wants to avoid him, and she does. Ashleigh is a freelance music reviewer, who’s happy with her little house with a much longed for long term lease. She can’t believe it when the guy on the Harley, her neighbour, is actually Blu Connolly from her favourite band. However Ashleigh is well aware of his reputation and has no plans to get involved with him, even though he’s temptation on two legs. Her plan to avoid him would be easier if Blu wasn’t on a mission to spend as much time as possible with her. This was a heartwarming opposites attract romance which kept me gripped throughout. Once again the descriptive narrative brought the characters and setting vividly to life, and made me feel apart of the Balefire bands world!
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Jennifer Gordonhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngJennifer Gordon2023-08-29 16:49:572023-09-05 15:00:22Sing For Me (The Balefire Series Book 2) by Tam DeRudder Jackson – Review by Jennifer Gordon
An enjoyable and engaging contemporary romance which kept me hooked throughout. Twenty eight year old widow Mia leaves to attend Bellarmine University, where she comes face to face with her childhood best friend Mitch and his fiancée Lacey. Mia and Mitch used to spend the Summer’s together but their friendship ended when he didn’t attend her wedding. However, the spark between them is still there, and Lacey is determined to keep them apart even if she has to use lies and manipulation to do so. When Mia starts to realise that Lacey may actually be the villain not a victim, she uncovers more than she expected, including secret identities. Mia and Mitch need to work together to stop Lacey before she ruins Mia’s life, including her expulsion from the University. The storyline had plenty of drama and romance to keep me happily turning the pages and the plot twists kept me guessing as to the outcome. The characters were all well defined and I felt immersed in the setting as the descriptive narrative brought their world to life.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Jennifer Gordonhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngJennifer Gordon2023-08-29 15:59:192023-09-05 15:00:09Love & Stilettos by Evelyn Lindell – Review by Jennifer Gordon
3.5stars Second chance Romance with a twist This contemporary romance had a really good premise with the childhood best friends hitting road block upon road block to their HEA. This is told from Mia’s point of view and I would have really loved to have had Mitch’s POV, as it would have added another dimension – I’m a sucker for dual POV. There were only a few minor let downs for me in the persona of Mitch and the delivery with granny it all just seemed a bit clunky. The twists with Lacey were well developed though and she had strong characterisation. Overall, for me, this is a solid first read from this author.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Rayne Easthttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngRayne East2023-08-29 06:11:022023-09-05 14:57:45Love & Stilettos by Evelyn Lindell – Review by Rayne East
Bowie and Jagger were sensational together… until jealousy and insecurities tore them apart.
Jordan
Having my ex on our comeback tour was the last thing I expected to happen. She’d always been a kick-ass tour manager, and now she’s even hotter than I remember.
How am I supposed to resist?
Winning Lex back won’t be easy, and I’ll have to compromise on my past behaviours to make it work this time – because she’s worth it.
That is, until someone connected to my past decides to play hell with my life, leading me on a path of self-destruction. Now I stand to lose what’s most important to me. My future with the band. My relationship with Lex. Everything.
Alexis
Being offered the gig as tour manager for my ex’s band raised doubts. He’s always been the charismatic frontman, and now he’s as hot as I remember.
How am I supposed to resist?
I’ve told myself I couldn’t fall for Jordan again. Who was I kidding? He seems different now, and those old feelings are hard to ignore. Our explosive chemistry is still there, and what we have is worth fighting for.
When his past demons raise their heads, we could be in trouble.
He’s shattered my heart once, and I won’t let him do it again.
When We Fell Again is a standalone angsty, second chance rockstar romance.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/JULIE-ARCHER-FELL-PREORDER.png750750itsybitsybookbitshttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngitsybitsybookbits2023-08-29 00:01:552023-09-16 21:31:35(づ♥‿♥)づ PREORDER (づ♥‿♥)づ When We Fell Again by Julie Archer
Playboy rockstar Blu Connolly is heading home to visit his mother while his band is on hiatus from touring. He just needs a little time with his mom, some of her great cooking, and some time to be anonymous in his hometown. Blu’s plans are quickly thwarted by his mom’s new neighbor.
Ashleigh Baker has finally found a place that she can call home and put down some roots. After growing up with a military father, constantly on the move, she has found a spot where the landlord encourages her hobby of planting flowers. When Ashleigh figured out who she was living next to she never thought she would actually get to meet the lead singer for one of her all-time favorite bands. Ashleigh spends her time as a substitute teacher and freelance music reviewer.
The moment Blu arrives in the neighborhood, he loudly announces his presence by revving his motorcycle loudly late one night. Ashleigh, not caring that he is famous, comes out and tears him a new one for being rude. Blu is entranced by this angry beauty. He starts finding reasons to be around her. No matter how charming he tries to be, Ashleigh isn’t falling for it because of his reputation and she knows that eventually he will be leaving. No reason to get attached. But things don’t always go as planned.
Through women blatantly throwing themselves at Blu, he stays true to Ashleigh. She slowly starts to trust and believe that Blu can be the man she needs. When the band’s manager purposely plots to break up Blu and Ashleigh, things get explosive only the way they can in the world of rock ‘n’ roll!
There is so much good in this one. It keeps you reading. You have hope for Blu, that he really is a changed man. When you learn the reason that his mother doesn’t want to move, it gets you all misty. Excellent story. Great read!!
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00M Policicchiohttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngM Policicchio2023-08-28 23:36:482023-09-05 14:57:24Sing For Me (The Balefire Series Book 2) by Tam DeRudder Jackson – Review by M Policicchio
Love & Stilettos is the debut novel by Evelyn Lindell. It is a contemporary romance with jealousy, plots/agendas, mystery, manipulation, secrets, lies, secrets crushes, childhood friends-to-lovers, manipulation, and more. I loved the premise of this book and was looking forward to all the promise it held. A romantic mystery/suspense is in my top five favourite genres- so I was excited to see what Evelyn Lindell had in store for us here. I really wanted to love this book, to lose myself completely in the story- but unfortunately this didn’t grab me the way I had hoped for. While the premise was great, I had trouble connecting with Mia as she came across as quite naïve and more immature than her age suggested, or than what the blurb had led me to believe. I was expecting a ‘strong’, confident, independent, and ‘mature’ FMC- but she was too ‘mousy’ for my liking. I got quite frustrated with her, and that feeling only intensified as the story progressed. There were situations in which the ‘villain’ came across as more the FMC- and completely ‘walked’ all over Mia. I can understand that the author was trying to add drama and tension to the story, and in some instances succeeded in doing that- but mostly I was left feeling frustrated and a little disappointed. I think the story needed more depth and development to really ‘shine’- and adding Mitch’s (MMCs) perspective would have gone a long way to achieving that, in my opinion. Also, the storyline was quite predictable, and while that didn’t ‘detract’ too much from my appreciation of the story, added to the other ‘issues’ I had it only fuelled the flames of my discontent. I think with a little ‘tweaking’ this story could have been stellar- as it stands, I really had to force myself to stay ‘focused’ on the story as it wasn’t holding my attention and my mind kept wandering. Don’t let me put you off reading this story, as I read a lot of darker, ‘meatier’ novels and my perspective may be biased towards that- so you should read the story for yourself and make up your own mind. I can see a lot of potential here, and as this is the authors debut novel, I am curious to read more of her work in the future to see how her ’style’ develops. Happy Reading…
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Angela Hayeshttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngAngela Hayes2023-08-28 22:46:412023-09-02 22:06:38Love & Stilettos by Evelyn Lindell – Review by Angela Hayes
“No one is who you think. Nothing is as it seems. Your love triangle has more angles. Someone can’t stop loving you. Another person never liked you. There is a puppeteer in your life, weaving a web of manipulation and deceit that’s so complicated that even I’m having a hard time deciphering the victims from the villains. If you don’t cut the puppeteer’s strings within two weeks, you will face your ruin— expulsion, permanent humiliation, and the loss of the only man who ever loved you.” Love & Stilettos is a contemporary romance tale. I was geared for an intense journey full of surprises, suspense, thrills and so much more after reading the above, but it didn’t punch me in the feels. There was some twists and turns, intrigue and mystery with lies and deceit that kept the story slowly moving forward. I kept reading even though I felt the story is a little predictable, because I wanted to see how it ended. I love a story that is told in different POV’s so I would have liked to have heard from Mitch and his take on it all which I think would have given the story that much more depth. My connection with Mia didn’t really gel even though she was sweet and shy and a whole lot naive and it felt like she was so much younger than she was. There is a lot in there to make it a great story but for me it fell a little bit short of the mark. Having said that it does not mean that you shouldn’t give it a go because my tastes and yours may be completely different and you may fall in love with it.
This is a good, contemporary romance that is filled with drama, a bit of humor banter, love with some twists and turns….the only thing that was difficult for me was it took at bit to get into the story. I enjoyed some of characters, especially Mia’s granny (she was a hoot) and Mitch, I was hoping Mia was a bit of a stronger character.
Mia and Mitch known each from years ago, now that Mia is back in Kentucky to start over as she become a widow at an early age. Mia is in need of Mitch’s help with an assignment she has at University and sparks have always been there between them. When Mitch’s fiancee, Lacey, tries to keep Mia and Mitch apart….drama ensues and erupts. Will Lacey’s ways keep Mitch and Mia from being friends or possibly more if Lacey keeps spinning her web of deceit.
At the tender young age of 28, Mia finds herself a widow and living with her grandmother in Kentucky. She’s decided to enroll in school and obtain a job. Things seem to be progressing well in her life, despite the drama that she’s endured lately.
Mitch is a firefighter, living the dream. Women flock to him because of his great looks and physique. He’s taken by Lacey though and the rock on her finger proves it.
Mia and Mitch were the best of friends when they were younger. Every June, Mia travelled to KY to visit her grandmother and she and Mitch would hang out for the month. One June, Mia didn’t return and instead married Xavier.
Through a series of challenging events, Mitch and Mia may find their way to each other again but not without some road blocks and some fires that need to be put out.
I found this book to be enjoyable, even if it was a bit predictable. Granny is by far my favorite character in this book. She deserves a book of her own. I loved her wit! Mia is a bit of a pushover, despite people thinking that she is a stronger person. I think maybe Mitch could bring out some stronger in her but it would need more character development. Overall, a good book to curl up with on a stormy afternoon!
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Julie Johnsonhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngJulie Johnson2023-08-28 17:31:322023-09-05 14:47:15Love & Stilettos by Evelyn Lindell – Review by Julie Johnson
The 5 king brothers are wealthy and live in a mansion with their father. Their mother passed away. After her passing the father hired an estate manager and he and his wife lived on the estate in a house not far from the mansion. With him came a son and a daughter. The story all comes down to Theo, Ava and Matthius. I loved every second of this all but one part when I almost had to put it down I was so disgusted but keep an open mind because it’s a great story. Theo is Ava’s best friend growing up but the “men” in ava’s life think they know what is best for her and Matthius isn’t it. My emotions were all over. Happy, sad, horrified and it’s just a roller coaster. It pulls at your heart strings and has a plot twist. I couldn’t put it down.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Chelsea Fosterhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngChelsea Foster2023-08-28 13:26:512023-09-05 14:46:19Cruel King by K.M. Scott – Review by Cruel Start (Hidden Valley Elite) by Isla Vaughn – Review by Chelsea Foster
This is book 4 in the Bluestone series and I have loved everyone. If you like rugged men who are hard working and love with passion and protectivness that no one can break then these books are definately for you. In this story we read about Teddy and Summers story and romance and wow what a read. Teddy and Summer have been friends since they were kids. Both of them had feelings for each other but neither was brave enough to admit it and so they went their separate ways. Fast forward and Summer returns to Bluestone to find that the bar she assumed would be hers had been sold to Teddy. Now she needs a place to live and a job and Teddy is only to happy to offer her them. As they spend time together the old feelings resurface. Will they finally get their happy ever after this time? When an ex from Summers past arrives will he be the one to destroy and tear apart Teddy and Summer? This is a great read. I got butterflies myself reading all the romantic thoughts and feelings the couple shared.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Kerry Carrhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngKerry Carr2023-08-28 12:30:432023-09-05 14:45:58Love Shots (Bluestone Series Book 4) by Isobel Reed – Review by Kerry Carr
An interesting tale, that’s what this is. Mia, a widow, comes across her crush, Mitch and the tale begins there. Romance with some misadventure and suspense. I enjoyed their story because it was quite entertaining. My favorite character was her grandmother. I could totally relate to her. It was like seeing mine on paper. She spoke her mind and had no filter what came out of her mouth. I loved her. Mia still had some growing to do and it was good to see her do that. Once Mitch reconnected, he was always watching out for her. I found the HEA done well. I enjoyed the little twists and turns. A good read that you can enjoy.
This book combines romance and suspense. It follows the story of a young woman who gets caught up in a dangerous world of Russian mafia and royal intrigue. The book explores themes of love, loyalty, and the complexities of navigating dangerous relationships. Lev and Daphne are essentially enemies to lovers – and honestly, those are the best stories! These two are total opposites. You know what they say about opposites attract!
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Heidi Schoolmanhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngHeidi Schoolman2023-08-28 07:33:392023-09-05 14:45:03Russian and Royally Complicated (The Crowned Hearts Series Book 2) by Gwyn McNamee and Christy Anderson – Review by Heidi Schoolman
It honestly took me a long time to get into this story. I did continue to read it though. I guess because I caught on quickly on what was going on and who was behind it. It is a sweet love story. The idea behind coming back into your first loves life and them loving you the same is great. I wish the story wasn’t so drawn out so that there was more to the ending but overall I believe that it is a good read.
Mia Crane is a 28-year-old widow who trades Ohio for Kentucky to attend Bellarmine University. She would’ve reached out to her childhood best friend, Mitch, since they spent every June together, but when he marked unable to attend on her wedding invitation, he pummeled her heart and ended their friendship.
Determined to not let any man reroute her life, again, Mia refuses to acknowledge the spark that appears when her path collides with Mitch and his fiancée, Lacey. But Lacey isn’t naïve… sparks lead to wildfires. To keep Mitch and Mia apart, Lacey weaves a web of manipulation and deceit so complicated that it’s hard to determine if she is the victim or the villain.
But when Mia discovers Lacey’s one misstep, she unearths secret identities, motives, and undeniable passion. Mia must allow Mitch to remove the barbed wire around her heart, so they can work together to find the truth and stop Lacey’s attack in two weeks’ time, or Mia faces expulsion, permanent humiliation, and a future without Mitch.
It’s true that love knocks loudest when uninvited, but so do the stilettos of a vindictive fiancée.
Evelyn Lindell was born in farm country and raised in poetry. She spent her childhood in a village in Midwest Ohio until she traded cow pastures for horse farms to attend Bellarmine University and the University of Louisville. Her life is colored with unexpected twists that encourage her to write the words that are difficult to say but that we need to hear and feel.
With two decades in the writing trenches, penning children’s books, poetry, and commissioned pieces, Evelyn’s debut novel explodes onto the scene with a command of humor, heart, secrets, and surprise that only a seasoned writer can bring. From winning the 20th Writer’s Digest Dear Lucky Agent contest to placing in the top 2% of a worldwide FicFest competition to becoming Cayelle Publishing’s number one preordered eBook, Love & Stilettos is already making a name for itself.
Between a homelife filled with eight incredible children, an amazing red-haired husband, and two four-legged friends, she fits in advising college students, championing the skilled trades, and nurturing her love of a good theme party. She lives with her heart on her sleeve, her characters hurdling over the words on the page, and a challenge for her readers: Love yourself and others.
I enjoyed Royally Complicated. I was drawn to this book because I love 1 of the 2 authors. I’m not overly familiar with the other, but that means I just have someone else’s work to look into. Any back to the book at hand. It was a great start to a new potential series. A story that involves a middle class American woman, who has been living her life safe and the crowned prince of Lovolia who feels he’s living in a gilded cage. What would these ever have in common, let alone what would bring them together? Bridget, a jilted bride, away on holiday(her honeymoon) with her best friend. Coasting through it miserably and unable to get out of her depressed funk, has some truths thrown at her she doesn’t want to hear. Causing her to run, but not without grabbing a bottle of cheap tequila to take with her. Not realizing her life is about to get turned upside down. Fynix is royally bogged down. He hates the constant parading of potential brides his parents keep bringing to him. The most recent one being the worst. He has to escape, what he never expected that escaped would be life altering. These authors present a strenuous, steamy, complicated, and wonderful story. The development of the main characters over time was wonderful, though I think they nailed the growth of some of the supporting characters beautifully. So now I ask you, is it worth the read? Well if you’re going by what I’d have to say, I’m going with absolutely. It’s not perfect but it was wonderful.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Beverly Place-Finniehttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngBeverly Place-Finnie2023-08-27 22:50:202023-09-05 14:43:27Royally Complicated (The Crowned Hearts Series Book 1) by Gwyn McNamee and Christy Anderson – Review by Beverly Finnie
I’m not usually a huge fan of billionaire romances, but I really enjoyed reading this one by K.M. Scott. The story moved pretty quickly, and the characters were very well-developed.
Ava has grown up on the King estate, and she and the King brothers have been in each others’ lives as long as she can remember. She is closest with Theo, in fact, he is her best friend. The two have been there for each other as they have suffered unimaginable losses at such young ages. As close as she is to Theo, the opposite is true of Matthias, the oldest king boy. If he isn’t ignoring her, he treats her as if she is something disgusting stuck on the bottom of his shoe. She has grown accustomed to that and does what she can to just avoid him. All that changes one day during a blizzard that traps these two together for a couple of days. Ava realizes Matthias’s feelings for her weren’t at all what she expected them to be. It was pure bliss until it wasn’t.
Fast forward five years, and Ava and Matthias’s relationship is still complex, complicated, and full of animosity, and now factor in Theo’s feelings for Ava. What Scott has given her readers is a book full of angst and emotions which kept me flipping through the pages. I couldn’t wait to find out how it ended for these characters.
To say Matthias was a complicated and complex character would be the understatement of the year!!!! There were times that I wanted to throttle this man!!!! I could understand why he was the way that he was, but I wanted to tell him to go get some therapy or finally ask Ava the questions he wanted to ask her before he pushed the one person away who actually saw who he was deep down in his soul! Never fear, readers, he does finally get his act together and finds a path to happiness for him.
For the most part, I liked Ava. She was a strong individual and my goodness did she have patience. I was glad she finally confronted Matthias and demanded to know what she had done to him to be treated in the way that she was. She pushed his buttons, but yet, she saw a side to him that no one else did. However, she wasn’t perfect. Her feelings for Matthias and Theo were confusing for her. She seemed to be able to easily fall for Theo despite her time with Matthias. I did try to see it from her point of view. Matthias ran so hot and cold, and she really had loved Theo her entire life, but she had to determine whether that was the years of her friendship or romantic love. Like Matthias, she did finally discover her path to happiness.
This was a very heartfelt book that struck a good combination of spice and many emotional moments. There were also twists I didn’t see coming that really tugged at my heartstrings. Matthias has several other brothers, so I’m hoping this is the beginning of a series. I would definitely read more about the King Boys.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Christie Mitchumhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngChristie Mitchum2023-08-27 07:50:442023-09-05 14:53:09Cruel King by K.M. Scott – Review by Christie Mitchum
Allie and Jude share a special bond and they have since they were children and she gets him better than most people but something is up with the both of them ….
Allie takes Jude his coffee every morning and it really irks Angelina and sometimes she feels Jude monopolises Allie’s time but there’s so much she needs to learn and again I’m reminded not to assume anything in life and communication really is key 😉
Jude has a dark and very sad history and he’s a fiercely private man and some may call him aloof but once you know his story you just want to envelope him and hold on to him and never let go and he’s always held a flame for Angelina , she’s owned his heart since the first time their eyes met and nobody knows not even Angelina herself and it’s got nothing to do with the big age gap between them ….
Allie’s strange behaviour brings Jude and Angelina together to figure out what’s going on and try to help her but there’s also the looming threat of “ The Grind” so there’s alot going on and throw in the tension brewing between Angelina and Jude and you’re in for the best 420 pages ❣️📚
I love that Byron and Luca bought Jude a building where he could have a bookstore under and live above the store where he could write and study but with him not using it there’s the possibility of it being part gallery for Jack and I think the pressure is on because Jude has been dragging his feet with his dark secret 🥲
Nana stole my heart and man she’s a gem 💎 but I’ll be honest I cried buckets and what my people have been through but every storm cloud has a silver lining right !?
Something that will stay with me as it really hit my heart “ Family isn’t just blood , Al . It’s our love for each other . It’s what we’re willing to do for each other that makes us family ….”
I’ll be honest I was still left with a few unanswered questions regarding Allie and the looming threats against the Hawkes …..
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Heidihttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngHeidi2023-08-27 07:04:112023-09-05 14:52:51Reticent Hawke (The Hawke Family Second Generation Book 2) by Gwyn McNamee – Review by Heidi Sturgess
This is the 2nd book in the Balefire Series. Even though it can be read as a standalone I do recommend reading them in order so you get a deeper understanding of all the characters and their personalities. This is a rock star romance which I love. The main characters in this book are so well written and just how you would imagine a romance with a rock star to be. Ashleigh lives a quiet life. She loves her work and lives for her garden. She knows who Blu is and is a fan of Balefire but she also knows about Blus reputation and she isn’t silly enough to fall into his trap and get her heart broken. Blu is the lead singer of Balefire. His voice mesmerises and has women falling on their knees in front of him all the time. Because of this Blu has a reputation of a playboy. He has different women all the time and never pays attention to who they are. It’s part of his life style and if women are prepared to drop their knickers for him when ever he asks then of courses he’s going to enjoy the perk. Women are putty in his hands. Until he meets Ashleigh. She doesn’t fall or go doe eyed in his presence. In fact she comes across like she hates the ground he walks on. To Blu this is a breath of fresh air and makes her more appealing to him. As their attraction grows he realises he needs her in his life to be more than just a conquest but will Ashleigh see past the reputation and the playboy image and open her heart to him?
This is a rollercoaster ride of a read. Blu messes up countless times as he learns to navigate the situation he finds himself in. This is a slow burn romance and what I love about it is that Ashleigh is strong enough to put Blu in his place. Their relationship isn’t plain sailing but the journey is beautiful to watch.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Kerry Carrhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngKerry Carr2023-08-27 06:19:512023-09-05 14:52:36Sing For Me (The Balefire Series Book 2) by Tam DeRudder Jackson – Review by Kerry Carr
I love a fairy-tale romance that gives me sugar and spice and everything very nice with a bit of drama, forbidden romance, some spicy scenes, and a little bit of twist I did not see coming. this was a fantastic read that I loved every moment and I cannot wait to dive into the next book.
Every little girl dreams on marrying her own Prince Charming….little did Bridget know while on a girls vacation that she would meet her own prince without really knowing he was a true prince. Bridget is reeling on a past relationship that left her feeling unworthy as her ex-fiancee has other plans of being a cheater. Bridget ends up on a secluded part of the beach where she is vacationing and meets Fyn. Their instant connection ends up being the fun she needed…..
Fyn meets Bridget at the Royal Family private beach area, but after talking to her, he realizes that she does not know his true identity. The easy conversation between them turns into more…not to say when the guards come for him, Bridget finding out who he truly is. Fyn is drawn to Bridget for who she is and the spark they have that is truly undeniable.
When Fyn and Bridget try and make a go of their forbidden relationship, things turn bumpy for them along with violence that is happening in the county that Fyn loves dearly. With political scrutiny that his family is facing will Fyn be able to balance between his duty to his people and his love for Bridget?
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Lorralei Hoernerhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngLorralei Hoerner2023-08-26 21:32:372023-09-05 14:51:13Royally Complicated (The Crowned Hearts Series Book 1) by Gwyn McNamee and Christy Anderson – Review by Lorralei Hoerner
This was a great 5 star read. Being that this book is part of a series, reading book one will be helpful but not necessary. I love Rockstar romance and this one did not disappoint. We see more into Blu and his bad boy rocker life. He decides to take a break and ends up meeting someone that intrigues him. Ashleigh knows who he is and tries to keep him at arms length due to his colorful past. As they spend more time together they develop a friendship that Blu wants to take further but Ashleigh isn’t quite sure. Will he be able to get through her walls? Can they have a HEA?
Overall I really enjoyed this book. The characters were great. The author does a great job with her writing and I look forward to reading more from this series. If you like Rockstar romance you will want to 1-click and get started today.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Michelle Austinhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngMichelle Austin2023-08-25 22:38:202023-09-05 14:41:01Sing For Me (The Balefire Series Book 2) by Tam DeRudder Jackson – Review by Michelle Austin
We may request cookies to be set on your device. We use cookies to let us know when you visit our websites, how you interact with us, to enrich your user experience, and to customize your relationship with our website.
Click on the different category headings to find out more. You can also change some of your preferences. Note that blocking some types of cookies may impact your experience on our websites and the services we are able to offer.
Essential Website Cookies
These cookies are strictly necessary to provide you with services available through our website and to use some of its features.
Because these cookies are strictly necessary to deliver the website, refuseing them will have impact how our site functions. You always can block or delete cookies by changing your browser settings and force blocking all cookies on this website. But this will always prompt you to accept/refuse cookies when revisiting our site.
We fully respect if you want to refuse cookies but to avoid asking you again and again kindly allow us to store a cookie for that. You are free to opt out any time or opt in for other cookies to get a better experience. If you refuse cookies we will remove all set cookies in our domain.
We provide you with a list of stored cookies on your computer in our domain so you can check what we stored. Due to security reasons we are not able to show or modify cookies from other domains. You can check these in your browser security settings.
Google Analytics Cookies
These cookies collect information that is used either in aggregate form to help us understand how our website is being used or how effective our marketing campaigns are, or to help us customize our website and application for you in order to enhance your experience.
If you do not want that we track your visit to our site you can disable tracking in your browser here:
Other external services
We also use different external services like Google Webfonts, Google Maps, and external Video providers. Since these providers may collect personal data like your IP address we allow you to block them here. Please be aware that this might heavily reduce the functionality and appearance of our site. Changes will take effect once you reload the page.
Google Webfont Settings:
Google Map Settings:
Google reCaptcha Settings:
Vimeo and Youtube video embeds:
Other cookies
The following cookies are also needed - You can choose if you want to allow them:
Privacy Policy
You can read about our cookies and privacy settings in detail on our Privacy Policy Page.
