The accident stole Phoenix from me. Now, he’s nice… kind even. But the memory of me—of our baby—is gone. Despite everything, I’m left fighting for our child and the man I’ve come to love.
How much will I have to sacrifice to bring him back? What happens when secrets buried deep in the past burst into the present? Do we have a chance? Or is it inevitable that history repeats itself and we’re forced to go our separate ways?
Cruel Love is an enemies-to-lovers, fake relationship, new adult, sports romance with pregnancy, plenty of angst, heat, and a HEA. This is the conclusion of Cruel Hate, and Aspen and Phoenix’s duet. This book contains mature content that some readers may find disturbing.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/ISLA-VAUGHN-CRUEL-LOVE-PREORDER.jpg750750itsybitsybookbitshttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngitsybitsybookbits2023-09-21 00:01:022023-09-11 20:20:16❣🌹❤🥀 ❥ PREORDER ❣🌹❤🥀 ❥ Cruel Love (Hidden Valley Elite Book 6) by Isla Vaughn
Over her shoulder, Vanessa viewed The Academy for Young Ladies fading in the distance behind the carriage. Turning forward with a sigh of relief, she relaxed. She could hardly wait to catch her first glimpse of Hill House again.
Upon her arrival, she never expected to have her guardian residing in her home. If she considered him at all, she imagined him in the background, guarding her interest from afar as he had in the past. Nor did she expect to find her aunt by marriage apparently in charge of the household. Adding to her dismay, her aunt’s relatives were dwelling in Hill House as well.
Most disturbing of all, Vanessa found signs of a ghost dwelling in the house too, filling her with unease and dread.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/The-Earl-Her-Reluctant-Guardian-21-Final-200x300-2.jpg300200itsybitsybookbitshttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngitsybitsybookbits2023-09-20 00:06:072023-09-16 21:19:51♥ ´¨`•.¸¸. COVER REVEAL ´¨`*•.¸¸♥ The Earl, Her Reluctant Guardian by Wareeze Woodson
For fans of ACOTAR and The Bridge Kingdom, this romantic fantasy about a noblewoman who falls into a forbidden world and the dangerous outcast who can save her is a page-turning adventure!
Rowan Undervale is nobody’s hero.
With dark magic that’s made him an outcast, Rowan cares for one person and one person only: his brother Phaedron. When a monster from the Worlds Above attacks his brother, Rowan manages to save Phaedron’s life. But when that first monster is followed by a second, this time a woman looking for her prince, Rowan is ready to hand the lady over to the king and be done with monsters forever.
But his brother asks for a favor… so Rowan promises to look after the woman, at least until he can get her back to the Worlds Above. Rowan is certain he’ll be able to find a hole in the barrier between their worlds.
But will he be able to let her go?
Lady Arryn came to the land of monsters to rescue her prince.
It’s what any lady would do for the man she’d been raised to marry. Besides, rescuing the prince might finally be enough to force the king to agree to the marriage her parents have been trying to arrange for her entire life.
But the frozen Lands Below are nothing like Arryn expected. And Rowan, the brilliant and bitter sentry who is now her only hope of finding her prince or returning to the Worlds Above, possesses strange, horrific magic. What’s worse, he treats her far more like an equal than like a lady.
And the most terrifying part is, she’s starting to like him. Snarky and steamy, Heart’s Rescue is an enemies-to-lovers adventure with dual point-of-view (his and hers). The first in a series of connected stand-alone novels, this sweeping tale of love, survival, and discovery ends with a hard-won Happily Ever After and is perfect for readers looking for a sprinkle of spice in their next swoon-worthy, passionate romantasy.
Click here to experience a Chapter Reading of Heart’s Rescue (Fallen Hearts) by Meredith Hart
Raised by wolves in the mountains of Colorado, Meredith Hart traveled the world to seek her fortune, fell in love with a half-elf ranger, and now lives in a cabin deep in the Maine woods where she writes steamy fantasy romance with snarky, reluctant heroes and the warrior women who love them.
She also writes mythology-inspired paranormal romance under the pen name Samantha MacLeod, and she has occasionally been known to pen a poem or two. Sometimes they even make it into her books.
Portugal, 1873 A prudish princess on a mission… Princess Isabel de Orleans would do anything for Portugal. When her brother, the king, asks for her help, she agrees to travel to Spain to defuse a diplomatic crisis. A beloved rake as a babysitter… Henrique, Viscount Penafiel, has no roots. He prepares to sail to greener pastures when his best friend blackmails him into accompanying the princess to an aristocratic-filled seaside resort. Passion versus patriotism… With his wit and ever-present grin, Henrique delights in showing how Isabel’s morals are outdated. Isabel abhors philandering but is entranced by the caring man hidden below a devil-may-care attitude. The sister of Henrique’s best friend should be high on a pedestal, safe from his lust. But by demolishing his ideas, she crumbles the height separating them. A Bourbon with ulterior motives… Alfonso is a king sans a throne. When the Bourbon’s meteoric interest in Isabel threatens Portugal’s independence, Henrique has to take drastic measures to save his country and Isabel’s love.
Click here to experience a Chapter Reading of The Truth About Myths (The Winemakers Book 3) by Giovanna Siniscalchi
Stories are the very fabric of life. I want to transport readers to exotic settings, where they can find romance and happy endings and hopefully bring some back to their daily lives. Portugal brims with beauty and passion, and I research every tiny detail of my novels, hoping to make the reader treasure my grandparents’ country as I do. I have a loving husband who still is my hero and two amazing kids. When it’s cold and rainy, I run inside to read and watch movies under blankets, sipping wine. You can find me on the beach during summer, surfing with my family.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/373466449_24241528418771959_1836013338177068667_n.jpg1200750itsybitsybookbitshttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngitsybitsybookbits2023-09-20 00:03:162023-09-18 17:44:50The Truth About Myths (The Winemakers Book 3) by Giovanna Siniscalchi
Laughter is the best medicine. I make sure to always deliver the fun and crazy while hiding my pain behind it. It’s who I am and what I do. I also work my butt off for the Grimm Wolves MC brothers, trying to prove myself as more than just a prospect. But even the toughest of the tough need to let loose every now and then. I know that more than anyone after the world of hurt I’ve experienced.
CELEE
A chance encounter in a chat room just may be the saving grace I’ve needed all along. My father’s enemies are closing in, and my time just might be running out. Thank God Dingo and his brothers will do anything to keep me safe–even if it means going up against the most vile of criminals around. But the more Dingo tries to protect me, the more I know he’s hurting too.
Can two fractured hearts find a way to heal together?
In the year following her brother’s tragic murder, Public Defender Hannah Patel withdrew into the comfort of family and career. As time passed, the man obsessed with her became a terrifying threat.
A fatal error caused Detective Doyle Murphy to doubt his future in law enforcement, but protecting Hannah presents an opportunity for redemption. Neither expect their forced closeness to create genuine feelings.
As their burgeoning romance grows, it pushes her stalker over the edge.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/BECKY-FLADE-BEAUTIFUL-PREORDER.png750750itsybitsybookbitshttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngitsybitsybookbits2023-09-19 00:02:152023-09-13 17:37:40☆❥•*•🌹•*•❥☆ PREORDER ☆❥•*•🌹•*•❥☆ Beautiful Dangerous (Philly Heat Series Book 4) by Becky Flade
Annabelle Stewart, all tight leather skirt and hot lace panties, thundered into my life for one night after a rock show and calmly drove away the next day. She should have been like any other one-night stand I’ve had over the last ten years touring with Balefire. But she wasn’t. At odd moments, I catch myself thinking about her, wondering if I made as big an impression on her as she did on me.
Then I walk into the rehearsal for our drummer’s wedding, and who’s standing with the bride? The hottie who keeps me awake with thoughts of our one night together. Beautiful, smart, and sassy as hell, Annabelle sets me on fire with her kisses and leaves me hanging. But I’ve got plans for her.
Annabelle
I never expected to see him again. Two years after hooking up with Dakota Perri after a Balefire concert, I’d convinced myself that night was a fantasy. But the way he looks at me during Jack and Clio’s wedding, like he remembers every second of our one-night stand, lights me up. Too bad I blew it.
Then I score a management internship with the band, an opportunity guaranteed to land me a scholarship with a top graduate program—if I don’t earn a reputation for sleeping my way to success. Which is a problem. I see Dakota every day. Every time we’re together, the sparks fly faster and hotter. If I want to achieve my goals, I have to resist him. But how can I resist a man as panty-meltingly hot as Dakota Perri when he says he’s wild for me?
Click here to experience a Chapter Reading of Wild For Me (The Balefire Series Book 3) by Tam DeRudder Jackson
Tam DeRudder Jackson’s love of all things Celtic led her to write the Talisman Series. Steeped in Celtic mythology, these steamy, fated mates, paranormal romance adventures are set in the mountains of Tam’s native Montana and the Highlands of Scotland. Rogue, the most recent book in the series, was named a best romance of 2022 by the Independent Book Review.
An avid fan of rock music, Tam never misses a chance to see a live show, especially if it’s Shinedown, one of her favorite bands. Her love of rock music inspired her contemporary rock star Balefire Series, a sexy fun ride following the lives and loves of the members of a fictional mega-band. Readers of this series consistently give the books five-star reviews.
Tam earned her BA in English from Montana State University and her M.Ed. in literacy from Lesley University. After a short teaching stint in Bath, England, she settled in the wilds of Wyoming where she taught adolescents all about the Celts and a bit about writing before she stepped out of the classroom to pursue her writing career full time.
When she’s not writing, you can find her working her way through her mountainous TBR piles, alpine skiing, or traveling to some new place on her ever-expanding bucket list. To stay up to date on her adventures, connect with Tam on her websitewww.tamderudderjackson where you can subscribe to her newsletter.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/02-WILD-FOR-ME_EBOOK.jpg1200755itsybitsybookbitshttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngitsybitsybookbits2023-09-18 00:03:092023-09-11 21:31:23Wild For Me (The Balefire Series Book 3) by Tam DeRudder Jackson
When Holly Claus visits a small town in Oregon on one of her normal Cheer-collecting missions, she never imagines that everything she knew about holiday Cheer would be thrown out the sleigh. Holly has always been efficient in her work of traveling around the world, collecting Cheer to power the North Pole and its dream-making operations there. But she’s never been quite as good at collecting it as her father was, and she’ll do anything to figure out why- including blending in in a small town full of Cheer. Ash Hayes is working nonstop to build up his tourism business at The Emerald House in rural Oregon, even going so far as to enter the town in a Hallmark competition for Best Small Town Christmas Faire. Driven by a desire to make the town a desirable destination after his mom ran away from Emerald Hollow as a child, Ash feels like he has the future of the town riding on his shoulders. When Ash and Holly meet, sparks fly, but she isn’t looking for love, and he isn’t looking for someone who leaves. Little do they know, magic may intervene in their carefully laid plans. Holly’s arrival in town sets in motion a change in Holly’s Cheer magic that upends everything at the North Pole. If Holly doesn’t get to the bottom of what’s causing all the Cheer in Emerald Hollow, Christmas itself may be at stake. In this sweet small-town twist on the classic Christmas tale, experience holiday magic like never before.
Alice Snyder knows her reputation—and if she didn’t, Buckeye Falls loves to remind her. She may come from the town’s First Family, but that doesn’t mean she plays by the rules. After a decade of traveling and going to school, she’s back home and ready to settle down, or at least relax for a while. The trouble is, her neighbors are determined to find her a husband. She needs a way to get them off her back…
When James Gibson, a divorced artist, flees New York for the peace of small-town Ohio, he’s excited to get painting again. The only trouble is, he’s completely blocked. Despite his best efforts, his collection of canvases are blank and he’s at a career crossroads. A chance meeting with the mayor’s sister throws James’s routine off balance, and he’s eager to spend more time with this quirky spitfire.
And Alice might have the solution to both their problems…
Fake Date.
She gets the Nosey Nellies off her back, and James gets time with a woman who inspires him both inside and outside the studio.
Just a few weeks of pretending, and they’ll move on. Simple, right? The trouble is the more time they spend together, the realer their relationship feels. The laughter, the stolen kisses—it all starts to feel like more.
Can these two be honest with each other and find their happily-ever-after, or are they doomed for a real breakup?
Libby Kay’s FAKING THE FALL redeems Buckeye Falls’s spinster troublemaker with a fake relationship romance filled with sweet small town vibes. FAKING THE FALL will bring to mind amazing books like Practice Makes Perfect by Sarah Adams and Fix Her Up by Tessa Bailey. But best of all, it returns readers to the small Ohio town and the familiar characters from the previous Buckeye Falls books. All the zany, overbearing, and well-meaning ones! So sit back and grab FAKING THE FALL for the latest roller-coaster romance by Libby Kay.
This series gets better with every book! The author as always quickly hooks you and keeps you that way the entire book, actually the entire series. I suggest you read the entire series, so you have a better understanding of all the characters. This book (and series) will have you feeling every emotion possible. I am super excited to start the next book and see what else happens. I highly recommend this book and series!
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Ashley Westermanhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngAshley Westerman2023-09-14 18:49:442023-09-14 18:49:44Cruel Hate (Hidden Valley Elite Book 5) by Isla Vaughn – Review by Ashley Westerman
A Forever Kind of Thing” by Carrie Thomas and Melinda Harris is a heartwarming and beautifully written story that explores the enduring power of love and friendship. The story follows the lives of two protagonists, each facing their own challenges and insecurities, as they navigate the complexities of their relationship.
Thomas and Harris have created characters that are relatable and multidimensional, making it easy for readers to connect with their struggles and triumphs. The authors’ vivid descriptions and well-crafted dialogue bring the story to life, immersing the reader in the world of the characters.
What sets “A Forever Kind of Thing” apart is its exploration of the theme of lasting love. The authors delve deep into the emotional layers of the characters, portraying their growth and transformation over time. This book reminds us that love is not always easy, but it is worth fighting for, and that true love endures through life’s ups and downs.
Overall, “A Forever Kind of Thing” is a touching and emotionally resonant story that will leave readers with a warm heart and a renewed appreciation for the enduring power of love. It’s a must-read for anyone who enjoys stories that celebrate the strength of the human spirit and the bonds that connect us all
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Jenique Bornmanhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngJenique Bornman2023-09-14 00:28:502023-09-14 09:32:09A Forever Kind of Thing by Carrie Thomas and Melinda Harris – Review by Jenique Bornman
Trouble’s on the run in rural Eider, Iowa, and Deputy Cassy Rivers’s heart is in the line of fire. Two years ago, she barely escaped a harrowing experience at the hands of a maniac – and not without scars. Now a series of random robberies leads to the brutal death of a fellow officer, and she must put her trust in the one man who broke her heart.
FBI agent Boyce Hunt knows commitment isn’t for men with pasts like his. He left Cassy once to protect her from the blackmail and manipulation he faces from his mother’s criminal enterprise. But when they reluctantly partner up to capture the modern Bonnie and Clyde terrorizing McIntire County, their attraction flames to life once more, pulling Boyce between two loyalties.
Will they risk their hearts again, even if it means losing everything?
Winter Austin perpetually answers the question: “were you born in the winter?” with a flat “nope,” but believe her, there is a story behind her name.
A lifelong Mid-West gal with strong ties to the agriculture world, Winter grew up listening to the captivating stories told by relatives around a table or a campfire. As a published author, she learned her glass half-empty personality makes for a perfect suspense/thriller writer. Taking her ability to verbally spin a vivid and detailed story, Winter translated that into writing deadly romantic suspense, mysteries, and thrillers.
When she’s not slaving away at the computer, you can find Winter supporting her daughter in cattle shows, seeing her three sons off into the wide-wide world, loving on her fur babies, prodding her teacher husband, and nagging at her flock of hens to stay in the coop or the dogs will get them.
She is the author of multiple novels, with more on the way.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/BorntoDiebyWinterAustin1800HR.jpg1200800itsybitsybookbitshttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngitsybitsybookbits2023-09-14 00:01:582023-09-16 21:26:44Born to Die (The McIntire County Series Book 2) by Winter Austin
Blake’s and Morgan’s story is fireworks all around. Morgan coming from a bodyguard background and Blake coming from an educated teaching background, is a interesting clash of personalities. Ciara absolutely adores Blake and the interactions between the two are adorable. Morgan doesn’t want to let Blake into his heart, but he can’t help it, the more he sees Blake with his daughter. The frustration when Blake and Morgan don’t communicate well you kind of just want to knock them upside the head and tell them to listen. I disliked Fawn the entire book. I just wanted to shove her out of the way so she would just let them be.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Crystal Jimmohttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngCrystal Jimmo2023-09-13 23:57:472023-09-14 09:32:02Ignite My Heart (North Fork Series Book 2) by Alicia Street – Review by Crystal Jimmo
Cat Treadgold outdid herself with this second book in The Olympic Peninsula series. In this book we get to meet Liam and learn about his whereabouts when he was presumably dead, Ali’s long-lost twin. The love story could not have happened for anyone better than the love interest that the author has for Liam, especially after all of the trials that he had faced in his time abroad. No matter how much he fights the temptation to allow this young woman into his life, he soon finds that protecting her safety doesn’t allow for him to hold her at arm’s length. This book is primarily focused on Seattle and Port Townsend, both cities in Washington state. The author did an amazing job combining the beauty of Port Townsend, with the gorgeous scenery of the other cities surrounding this small town to draw the reader into the simple beauty of small-town life and the joys that one can find in escaping the big city life. This was another masterpiece of writing; the characters are so well-developed that you cannot help but cry over their heartbreak and cheer over their successes in life and love. This is a wonderful addition to this book series and cannot wait for the next book to continue the story of these families. @Brandy Rymer 09/2023
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Brandy Jo Rymerhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngBrandy Jo Rymer2023-09-13 23:48:022023-09-14 09:31:54The Guardsman (The Olympic Peninsula Series Book 2) by Cat Treadgold – Review by Brandy Rymer
Cat Treadgold is an amazing author, who has a knack for weaving a tale that will have you guessing the outcome at every turn! This romance novel takes place in a small area of Washington state. The beauty that she describes in her book is so breathtaking and so surreal, it’s like a paradise where people can go to hide away from the world, which is exactly what country star, Joe, was seeking after having surgery that required him to remain silent. The atmosphere of this entire book was just so realistic, it was as if the author was telling someone’s story that she’d been a part of. I love how easily the story flowed, and all the ups and downs. It was exciting, as well as a thrill ride to see who Joe would end up with. The sweet, down-to-earth girl of his dreams, Ali, who happened to stumble upon Joe out of the blue while recovering from his throat surgery, or his on-again-off-again wild ride of a girlfriend who was also his duet partner. The second you start this series; you are not going to want to stop so be prepared to hop on the roller coaster ride this book promises to give, because you won’t be disappointed. @Brandy Rymer 09/2023
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Brandy Jo Rymerhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngBrandy Jo Rymer2023-09-13 23:29:132023-09-14 09:31:47The Silent Woodsman (The Olympic Peninsula series Book 1) by Cat Treadgold – Review by Brandy Rymer
This the second book in this series and it is well written and draws you in easily just as the first book did. Much like the return of the prodigal son Liam comes back into his twin sister Ali’s life, but not without secrets and more scars than he left with. Theresa seems to be running from everything, maybe for good reason when “little accidents” start mysteriously happening. Can they figure out who is behind it all, and why? Although this a series you don’t have to read book one, but I definitely recommend it so you get backstory on these characters.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Ashlyhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngAshly2023-09-13 23:27:062023-09-14 09:31:40The Guardsman (The Olympic Peninsula Series Book 2) by Cat Treadgold – Review by Ashly Renner
This is a very well written book. I love how it has the two different perspectives. It is lighthearted but also thought provoking. It makes you laugh, makes you cry, and keeps you on your toes. Be ready to be reading for a while because once you start it’s hard to put it down.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Heather Goodmanhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngHeather Goodman2023-09-13 22:31:292023-09-14 09:31:31A Forever Kind of Thing by Carrie Thomas and Melinda Harris – Review by Heather Goodman
Let me start off by saying that you don’t NEED to read the first book in this series, BUT I would recommend that you DO! You really get so much more information and backstory on the characters in book one, that will help to understand them in this one a bit. Plus why not just start at the beginning? This book follows Liam who is Ali’s sister from book one. After an explosion (read book 1!!), Liam was thought to be dead for years! Ali and her husband Joe hire an investigator to look into things and by a small chance they find him! Being well into her pregnancy Ali couldn’t go after him, so they sent Joe’s sister Teresa. She wanted to travel and see the world, and this gave her the perfect excuse. Two birds, one stone. Finding him scarred physically and mentally he agrees to come back to the states to stay with his sister while he figures out his next plans for life. Teresa heads back as well and helps Joe and Ali find the perfect place for them and their soon to come twin girls. She finds a great three story compound with a few guest cabins on plenty of land. Being VERY pregnant with twins, she welcomes all the help that both Liam and Teresa provide staying in the guest cabins. Ali and Joe head back to have the babies at the hospital and that leaves Liam and Teresa all alone. Unfortunately Teresa has a few scary accidents, some of which could have killed her. Has she always been so accident prone? Or was someone trying to send a message? Finding a man with a camera on the property they start to think it’s just paparazzi. Liam sets up security and even picks up a couple guard dogs, but these accidents just seem to find her where ever she goes. Even in town! After a man pushes her off a dock into the freezing water, she finally goes back home leaving Liam alone. Liam does everything he can to keep himself busy and keep his mind off Teresa, but even night life in town doesn’t help. Going on a three day hike is his next plan. Ali, Joe, the twins, and Teresa come back to the compound the week he’s heading for his hike and it just happens to be Ali and Liam’s birthday too! With a weekend dinner party planned the house is full with friends, the new nanny, and the twins. Talk about busy, busy! I could go on and on about this book! So much happens! So much suspense! Like who is trying to hurt Teresa? What was Liam doing those three years when everyone thought he was dead? Is he really an assassin? Or spy? And what will become of both Teresa and Liam? Will the past come to bite him in the butt? And will Teresa find her calling?? Will she go back to Paul? Or maybe the yoga instructor! You have got to check this book out!! I personally can’t wait to read the next book!
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Jaimie Salmon-Colburnhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngJaimie Salmon-Colburn2023-09-13 22:26:492023-09-14 09:28:41The Guardsman (The Olympic Peninsula Series Book 2) by Cat Treadgold – Review by Jaimie Salmon-Colburn
I’m not sure where to start this review. First I enjoyed it and absolutely adored both Wes and Mina from the beginning when they were best friends in 5th grade.
A lot changes in the years they were apart, except their connection to one another. The moment they see one another its like no time has passed.
High school Mina struggled a lot with who she was, almost like she had a foot in the past world she lived in and one in the current world which could not have been any different. Seeing her discover who she really was one of the things I enjoyed the most about this book.
Wes was someone I could relate to, he didn’t allow his not so great childhood define him and did what he could to change to make sure he didn’t repeat others mistakes.
This book hit me deeper than I could have anticipated, it will be one of the books that I will carry with me for a while.
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 Rankin2023-09-13 22:16:262023-09-14 09:28:32A Forever Kind of Thing by Carrie Thomas and Melinda Harris – Review by Robin Rankin
This is the second book in this series. I do recommend you read the first just so you have some background before jumping into this. But you do not have to. I don’t want to give too much away. But the way the chemistry and emotions that this author writes into these characters is amazing. I will be continuing this series most definitely.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Michelle Marlowhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngMichelle Marlow2023-09-13 21:17:272023-09-14 09:28:22The Guardsman (The Olympic Peninsula Series Book 2) by Cat Treadgold – Review by Michelle Marlow
Mina has been bullied since she was a young child. Called many names just because she had a single mother, wore used clothes and lived in a trailer park. Mina all but gave up on finding friends until one day in Grade 5 a new kid named Wesley started at her school. He also came from a troubled past. Currently living in an all boys foster home while his dad is constantly in and out of the picture. Quickly the two became fast friends and eventually more. That is until one day in Grade 7, Wesley left without so much as a goodbye.
Mina’s mother married a rich man and their lives turned around. She went from thrift store finds to name brand clothing, a trailer to a mansion, public school to a fancy private school. She knew in order to survive this, she had to adapt. Mina became the Queen of the school wearing a mask and pretending her past did not exist.
It all became threatened when Wesley reappeared into her life. It has been years since the two have seen each other but old feelings are hard to fight especially when they are for your first love.
Mina worked hard to put up all these walls to survive her new life. Wesley wants to tear it all down so he can once again see the Mina he knows is in there somewhere.
This was a cute read. Childhood sweethearts reuniting in highschool. I was rooting for them from the beginning. I really liked Mina’s character. She thought she could not be herself to be accepted, the only one who ever made her feel like she could be herself was Wesley. Now that she has new friends, new clothes, new attitude, she doesn’t even know who she is anymore and is it worth all the pain to bring the past to the present and potentially ruin the future she worked so hard for.. Mina struggles with her own self worth and image. I really enjoyed reading her character arc. The authors did a really good job at portraying the intense emotions of a confused teenage girl who had her heart broken.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Santana Hickshttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngSantana Hicks2023-09-13 20:19:472023-09-14 09:28:05A Forever Kind of Thing by Carrie Thomas and Melinda Harris – Review by Santana Hicks
I absolutely loved this installment of The Olympic Peninsula series! It pulled on my emotions in multiple different ways, and I found myself captivated by the storytelling from this author. I was invested in the characters almost immediately and was kept on my toes throughout the entire book. I felt like this had quite a good flow and never felt pulled out of my book daze at all. You’ll enjoy the way the author so artfully creates Teresa and Liam’s story! I highly recommend picking up this series and also suggest reading them in order to get a fuller experience.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Shannen Kernhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngShannen Kern2023-09-13 20:13:532023-09-14 09:27:56The Guardsman (The Olympic Peninsula Series Book 2) by Cat Treadgold – Review by Shannen Kern
All I can say is WOW!!!! This was easily a hands-down 5-star read for me!!! The story was great, the characters were great, and the writing was great!!!
Wesley and Mina came into each other’s lives as children at a time when they needed one another. Wesley became Mina’s protector from vicious bullies, and Mina changed his life as well. The two became best friends, and then a crush, and then had the potential to become so much more even though they were children. Their little happiness bubble burst when Wesley disappeared without even letting Mina know. She was heartbroken, and life changed for her and her mother in ways they didn’t think possible. Years later, she is now the queen of her elite private school, and her life on the wrong side of the tracks is a distant memory until her past shows up at her school in the form of her best friend and first love, Wesley. No one knows about her past, and Wesley not only threatens her new life, but he still has the power to destroy her heart.
There were so many great things I loved about this book. The chemistry between Mina and Wes was electric, the softness and tenderness they shared also melted my heart. Some of my favorite parts of the book were their cherished memories of their childhood. Despite their painful childhood, their bond and that innocent love they had for one another made the darkness a little lighter!
“Pain and loss bound us together, along with a connection so deep it could hardly be explained. I loved him.” ~Mina
Something that set this book apart from other similar books was the heroine. Mina was the alpha. To her so-called friends, she ruled the school and at times could appear calculating. To Wesley, she appeared to have grown into the type of person that terrorized her as a child. Appearances can be deceiving…was she really that cold queen of the school or were there pieces of that young girl he fell for still in there?
“No matter the mask Mina chose to wear, it would be my job to prove to her she was good enough without it. I would remind her of what was beneath, of the little girl who played in the rain with me without a care in the world. It was time to set Mina free, to release her from the shackles of Ridgefield Academy and her so-called friends.” ~Wesley
Wesley does see some of the pieces buried deep inside of her. Despite her position at the top of the food chain in her school, she wanted to remember those forgotten pieces of herself. And, there were pieces of that little girl who cared for others still there, her volunteering at the YMCA and being a protector for those at school who were bullied. She was such a beautifully flawed and complex character, I LOVED her!
What was there not to love about Wesley? He was gorgeous, but it was his heart that was even more beautiful. He didn’t care what others thought of him, and man what a strong person he was! He endured so much as a child, yet somehow, became such a wonderful human being. It tugged on my heartstrings that he wanted Mina to show the world who she really was, and she didn’t have anything to be ashamed of. He didn’t want her to hide her light; he wanted her to show that light to the world!
As you can see, I fell in love with this special couple. However, it wasn’t only the characters that made the book so good! The story itself was fantastic. Even though it was a romance, it was also a lesson in life….despite your past, you don’t have to let it determine your future. You can use your past to make life better not only for you but for others as well. Whatever side of the train tracks you come from, it doesn’t determine the type of human being you become. Money and privilege don’t buy you happiness or make you better than anyone else.
Finally, the writing was excellent! The words these ladies wrote were just beautiful, and some of them were almost lyrical. All these things combined made for a fantastic book that I didn’t want to see end.
I have never read anything by these two writers, but they make a phenomenal team. They set themselves apart as a standout in this genre. It was such a beautiful and emotional love story, and I LOVED it! I cannot wait to read more books by them!
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 Mitchum2023-09-13 20:05:212023-09-14 09:27:48A Forever Kind of Thing by Carrie Thomas and Melinda Harris – Review by Christie Mitchum
Loved this book! Romance and suspense in one? Yes please! Author did a great job with description and I just loved the story all around. Amazing characters which I fell in love with! Well written and I can’t wait to start reading the next book! Highly suggest this.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Ashley Sugarhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngAshley Sugar2023-09-13 20:03:232023-09-14 09:27:40The Silent Woodsman (The Olympic Peninsula series Book 1) by Cat Treadgold – Review by Ashley Sugar
What another great book!!!! I loved the first book in this series and I couldn’t wait to start this one! I loved it just as much. This author is easily becoming one of my favorites! I love the writing style and I love the way the story just grabs my attention. Romantic suspense is one of my favorites and I have fallen in love with these books and characters. I couldn’t get enough.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Ashley Sugarhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngAshley Sugar2023-09-13 19:55:572023-09-14 09:27:32The Guardsman (The Olympic Peninsula Series Book 2) by Cat Treadgold – Review by Ashley Sugar
Mina and Wes’s journey was not what I thought it was going to be…it was so much more!
Mina and Wes meet in elementary school and become best friends only to become one another’s world and first loves to Wes disappearing from Mina’s world one day.
Fast forward five years and Mina’s world has gone from rags to riches courtesy of her mom’s husband. Wes reappears in her new world, but Wes is still Wes. Mina, well, Mina has become a Queen, uhm…chameleon trying to fit into her new world.
Wes’ reappearance throws a wrench in her life, and they learn true love can overcome life’s tragedies and you don’t have to change who you are to appease society.
I was pleasantly surprised by this book. This was a clean romance, not a smut romance book like I normally read but it was well written, and I did get lost in the pages.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Maria Colonhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngMaria Colon2023-09-13 19:47:052023-09-14 09:27:24A Forever Kind of Thing by Carrie Thomas and Melinda Harris – Review by Maria Colon
A Forever Kind of Thing was a great teen love story. Mina is a 5th grader who is not liked by most in her school. One day, a new kid, Wes decides to sit next to her. She warns this cute new boy he probably doesn’t want to associate with her, but he takes his chances. This is the start of their love story. They quickly became best friends, but Wes had a crush on Mina and they were inseparable. Unfortunately, Wes is a foster child, his father is a drug addict, and he moves around a lot. A few years of being friends, Wes has to leave, but does so without saying goodbye to Mina. Both are living apart and heartbroken. Mina’s senior year, we come to find out she is living a very different life. She has jumped the tracks to the rich kids and goes to a private school. She has transformed herself to survive in this new school, and everyone loves her. However, guess who moves back to the area and is awarded a scholarship to the same school Mina goes to? Yes, Wes. This takes both of them for a loop, but the feelings of wanting each other have never left. Can they get back to what they once had? Will he run when he is in his feelings? I enjoyed this story. It was sweet and emotional, but it was also hopeful. Wes was an amazing character. He was smart, determined, honest, and caring, but also beautifully broken. Mina was a great character too. Once you realize why she was behaving in her senior year the way she was, you can relate more to her. In the beginning, you wanted to shake her into reality. I loved seeing her progress back to the person she was with Wes’ help and being able to be the rock he needed. I am a sucker for teen romance and really enjoyed this one.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Dr. Anya Schultzhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngDr. Anya Schultz2023-09-13 19:05:172023-09-14 09:27:16A Forever Kind of Thing by Carrie Thomas and Melinda Harris – Review by Dr. Anya Schultz
Requited love stories are always the best! This is a story about Mina and Wes, who first meet in the 5th grade and instantly connect. Mina was considered an outsider and bullied by her classmates. Wes excelled in his confidence even though he’s been living in group homes. They grow up and also their feelings towards one another grow too. When they reach age 13, Wes suddenly disappears and she is left with so many unanswered questions. As years pass on and still feeling the hurt, Mina’s mom marries a wealthy man and although she is enjoying the benefits of living this new kind of life, she doesn’t forget of her humble beginnings and of kindness. Another ironic thing that happens when tables have switched her is her chance encounter with Wes. As he’s continued to struggle to make a life of his own, he is still the same boy Mina has known long ago. Their chemistry is great as lost loves find a way back to each other.
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 Ramos2023-09-13 18:56:352023-09-14 09:27:08A Forever Kind of Thing by Carrie Thomas and Melinda Harris – Review by Jennifer Ramos
<a href=”https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/195026276-a-forever-kind-of-thing” style=”float: left; padding-right: 20px”><img border=”0″ alt=”A Forever Kind of Thing” src=”https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1692116706l/195026276._SX98_.jpg” /></a><a href=”https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/195026276-a-forever-kind-of-thing”>A Forever Kind of Thing</a> by <a href=”https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/5932819.Carrie_Thomas”>Carrie Thomas</a><br/> My rating: <a href=”https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/5840552871″>4 of 5 stars</a><br /><br /> This was such a cute young-adult romance! Mina and Wes became best friends in 5th grade. They both fell in love but were so young and couldn’t predict the ups and downs of life. One day Wes disappeared from Mina’s life and she was left heartbroken. Flash forward to high school, Mina is now living a brand new life. She is wealthy, popular, and her new schools “Queen.” Midyear, her school accepts an unlikely student transfer, Wes! I love Mina and Wes’s relationship. They care about each other deeply and are truly friends before lovers. <br/><br/> <a href=”https://www.goodreads.com/review/list/56267508-jasmin”>View all my reviews</a>
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Jasmin Mariehttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngJasmin Marie2023-09-13 17:51:072023-09-14 09:26:48A Forever Kind of Thing by Carrie Thomas and Melinda Harris – Review by Jasmin Marie
OMFG. That ending. O.M.G. ok rewind. These two young adults meet at a party, have unprotected sex and Aspen gets pregnant. Most of the time Aspen and Phoenix clash like fire and ice but then there are times where they both burn equally! Aspen is being very adult like in her responsibilities. Phoenix is still undecided. I am not sure how I feel about him. He has a bad attitude, he’s angry…a lot. Hoping he can redeem himself. But loving this story line.
This book is not a stand alone. This series is not a stand alone. Each “set” of books or duet is about a different couple. The Hidden Valley Elite starts when these characters were in high school. They have moved up to college now and life is still hitting them full force.
Loving this series and can hardly wait to see who and what is next!
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Shannon Fowlerhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngShannon Fowler2023-09-13 17:21:022023-09-14 09:26:41Cruel Hate (Hidden Valley Elite Book 5) by Isla Vaughn – Review by Shannon Fowler
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