Beyond Friendship by Marlyn Love
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Marlyn Love did an amazing job. I love how she made the two main characters feel a connection and began to notice each other in the middle of a friendship. I connected with them because that is what I went through in life.
It’s a heartwarming and inspiring love story.. amazing world-building and so many emotions with the characters.
Faking the Fall: A Buckeye Falls Novel by Libby Kay
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
This is the 4th book in the Buckeye Falls Series. Even though it is part of a series these books can be read as a standalone which I love because each story focuses on a different couple but all are set in Buckeye Falls. The author writing style is captivating and gripping which draws the reader in from the first page. The characters are well developed, you actually feel like you know them as friends. These books are sweet romance stories, they are never plain sailing, there is a lot of ups and downs along the way as our main characters fight for their happy ever after.
This story is about Alice and James. Alice was a bit of a wild child and her reputation in Buckeye Falls still lingers on as the local residents love to remind her. After she spent time away studying and travelling she now returns hoping for some peace and quiet. However the residents have other ideas and see this as the perfect opportunity to get her to settle down and change her wild ways. While Alice isn’t completely against the idea of settling down she refuses to settle for someone everyone else picks or pushes her way.
James is a divorcee who has come to Buckeye Falls to restart his life. He’s hoping being in a peaceful place will help his creativity but what he finds is just empty space and not spark of creativity to be see. That is until he meets Alice. Now James wants to spend more time with her, being in her presences helps his creative juice flow.
So Alice sees an opportunity. Why don’t she and James pretend to be dating? Everyone could win. James gets to spend more time with Alice, and Alice gets all the locals off her back about settling down. It’s the perfect solution.
But what happens when faking it becomes something else? When the kisses and touches light a spark between them? What happens when the fake relationship starts to feel like the real thing?
I love this couple so much. Alice is definately my favourite. I love how she knows her own mind and isn’t afraid to speak it.
Liar, Liar by Winter Austin
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
“Liar, Liar: The McIntire County Series” by Winter Austin is an enthralling start to a thrilling series. Austin’s writing style is gripping and fast-paced, keeping readers hooked from the first page to the last.
One of the standout aspects of “Liar, Liar” is the well-developed characters. Austin expertly crafts a cast of supporting characters who add depth and complexity to the story, making them feel authentic and relatable.
The McIntire County series is known for its intricate plotting and suspenseful twists. “Liar, Liar” delivers on these expectations, presenting readers with a complex murder case that keeps them guessing until the very end. Austin’s ability to create suspense and maintain a sense of tension throughout the book is truly commendable.
Overall, “Liar, Liar: The McIntire County Series” is a must-read for fans of thrilling mysteries. Winter Austin’s skillful storytelling, well-rounded characters, and gripping plot make this novel a great introduction to the series, leaving readers eagerly anticipating the next installment.
Sins of the Father by Winter Austin
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
“Sins of the Father” by Winter Austin is a captivating thriller that will leave you on the edge of your seat until the very end. This gripping novel follows Deputy Jolie Murdoch as she investigates a missing person case that leads her down a dangerous path of secrets and deception. Austin’s writing style is tightly paced and filled with suspense, making it nearly impossible to put the book down.
One of the highlights of “Sins of the Father” is its well-developed and complex characters. Deputy Jolie Murdoch is a compelling protagonist who is not only determined to solve the case but also battles her own personal demons along the way. Austin skillfully portrays the emotional depth of these characters, making them relatable and investing the reader in their journey.
The plot of “Sins of the Father” is intricately crafted with surprising twists and turns that will keep you guessing until the final pages. Austin’s ability to weave multiple storylines together flawlessly adds an extra layer of intrigue to the story. Overall, “Sins of the Father” is a gripping thriller that will satisfy fans of the genre. Winter Austin’s talent for creating suspenseful and compelling narratives is on full display in this thrilling novel.
Mr Wimp by B.L. Wilde
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
I thought this book a fun one! It was a quick read and relatable. Bella was a good character and her exploration after divorce was something I could connect to. I look forward to reading others by this story. It was definitely a nice breather from the other books I’ve been reading.
Faking the Fall: A Buckeye Falls Novel by Libby Kay
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
This was a cute story! I love a cozy read and enjoy this series. I found the characters sweet and liked the lightness to them. I found Alice one of my favorite female characters in the series. If you are looking for something light and sweet to read- this is a good book for you.
Wild Lavender by Nicole E. Kelleher
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Ooooh, I loved Anna and Larkin. The chemistry was amazing between them. Not to mention, fate is intervening here. Now, this book is a slow burn. Anna finds herself in somewhat of an arranged marriage and not with our hero. This isn’t a spoiler because it happens right in the beginning. I will say I felt some disappointment that she wasn’t going to be with hero right from the beginning. But this story isn’t just a romance. In fact, the start is somewhat of a rough read. I found myself engrossed as Anna weathered the storms. In these times, we see just how strong she is. I love the mystery of the castle, the feeling of “espionage” but not really in a traditional sense, and the love the people started to feel for Anna. I had trouble putting this book down because I needed to feel Anna was safe. Amazing writing! I was hanging on every word!
Liar, Liar by Winter Austin
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
This is the fourth book in this series which just keeps getting better and better with every book. I highly suggest reading the previous books in this series as they are just as great as this one. It will also help enhance your enjoyment of this author. This is a well written story that has twists and turns that you don’t want to miss. I enjoyed how the characters pulled me into their world. They are strong, relatable characters that have such great growth throughout. They made the story easy and entertaining to read. A story about Shane and Liza and their determination to find a killer. Will they find the killer in time? This is a fast paced story that is hard to put down. I really enjoyed reading this book and I highly recommend it.
Review by @bjwagner
Liar, Liar by Winter Austin
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Oh my goodness, I have changed my mind, all the books in this series are my favorites. This is Shane and Liza’s story. Shane is the Sheriff and this is the craziest case yet. The adventures that come out of this case of figuring out who took out Gene Avery is wild. Liza Bartholomew is Boyce’s ex-FBI partner come back on a secret mission. The twists and turns, you just don’t see it coming. The characters in this town are crazy. Kind of like Mayberry gone wild. I loved seeing some of the ones from the past books come back into the story. I wish this series could just go one. I have a feeling McIntire County has many more secrets. I have enjoyed watching Shane and Liza’s romance develop. These two are a pair I didn’t quite see coming. They both had issues to work through. I have enjoyed this book. This whole series is so full of action, you just can’t go wrong. It’s the best series I’ve read this year.
Wild Lavender by Nicole E. Kelleher
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Captivating sorry line
This is the first book in the Heart & Hand Series and the first I have read from this author. It is an intriguing historical fantasy romance based in a world made up of realms. There is a little bit of everything in this book -from heartache to love, war to hope, politics to prophecy and so much more. The writing is well paced and executed well. I would have liked a bit more focus on the magic and a bit less focus on the drama but that’s just my preference.
Recommend.
Faking the Fall: A Buckeye Falls Novel by Libby Kay
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Slow burn small town romance
We’re back in Buckeye Falls and I couldn’t be happier. I love this series (and the town) and this addition just made it all the more sweeter. This is Alice and James’ story. Alice is Anthony, the town mayor’s, sister and has been labelled the town’s “wild child” – for good reasons. She has been feeling a bit lost and has made her way back home for a bit of reflection. James is a struggling, fairly famous, artist looking to get his mojo back. When these two meet there is instant chemistry. What unfolds has both characters having to face some truths. With fake relationship drama, gossiping town folk, interfering well meaning family and friends, and so much more this book will have you glued from start to finish. This can be read as a stand-alone but it’s so worth reading the previous books. Highly recommend.
Ignite My Heart by Alicia Street
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Ignite My Heart by Alicia Street was the first book I’d read in the North Fork Series, and I was quite impressed! I will be going back to read the first book in this series before the 3rd book comes out! The characters are so realistic, and beautifully portrayed in their roles of a perfect romance. Blake is a Harvard-educated woman who has recently divorced and lost her college professor position. Morgan is a single father who recently moved across the US with his daughter to escape her mother. Fawn is a deadbeat parent who’s never wanted anything to do with her daughter until it appears to be a boost to her career, now she’s determined to take custody of her daughter in order to benefit her own selfish purposes. Harper, Blake’s big brother, who’s a friend of Morgan’s has a great idea to bring together Blake and Morgan so that Blake can move in to be a nanny for Morgan’s daughter as Blake is looking for a new teaching position. He may just have another thought behind this scheme and not just getting his sister a steady job, but will his wishes come to fruition? Blake turns out to be an amazing nanny, but also a wonderful woman who catches the attention of Morgan upon their first meeting. As the story progresses will Blake and Morgan be able to work around their attraction to one another, or will they put their feelings aside for the best interest of the child? I loved reading this romance novel, it kept me cheering for our characters throughout the story, hoping that true love could conquer all odds that come at our main characters.
@Brandy Rymer
10/2023
Faking the Fall: A Buckeye Falls Novel by Libby Kay
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Eek! I love this series so much. I couldn’t wait for this book to come out. First off the cover is so beautiful. Immediately catches the eye. Secondly I love the romances in the story and how we see them thrive in each book. Alice is probably my Favorite character so far. She’s the black sheep of the family and has a lot on her shoulders bearing that weight. It was great seeing her growth and putting down roots. Definitely a good read!
*¨*✶*¨`* BOOK SPOTLIGHT SHOWCASE *¨*✶*¨`*
The last thing Eider sheriff Shane Hamilton needs is a determined FBI agent in his county. He’s already dealing with the fallout over his recent and all-too-close re-election, two gruesome homicides, and a rash of arsons. And personal grief weighs heavily on his soul.
Returning to Eider, Iowa, wasn’t part of FBI agent Liza Bartholomew’s game plan, but when she learns an elusive scam artist has been seen there, a man she’s been tracking for years, she doesn’t hesitate to follow the intel. Vengeance for his victims and her career are both on the line, and she won’t rest until justice is served. She doesn’t expect to be stonewalled by the town sheriff.
It soon becomes obvious to Shane that his and Liza’s cases are intertwined, and they’re forced to work together, a move that challenges his longstanding vow of not getting emotionally or professionally too close to another woman.
As the body count mounts, Shane and Liza find themselves and everyone they love in the immediate crosshairs.
What will they sacrifice to stop the cold-blooded killer in time?
Click here to view the Book Trailer for Liar, Liar (The McIntire County Series Book 4) by Winter Austin
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.
´¨`•.¸¸. BOOK SPOTLIGHT SHOWCASE ´¨`*•.¸¸
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.
I write under the name Wareeze Woodson. I took my mother’s pen name Wareeze for my own. She never had anything published so I thought I would carry her pen name forward. I write historical romance with a twist of suspense, Regency and Victorian mostly. I did tackle a historical western as well. I’m an avid reader and I love to write as well. I live near Houston, TX and enjoy my family. Thank God for grandchildren. If you like to read historical love stories with a flavoring of suspense, look for books by Wareeze Woodson and join me on a journey through the past with daring heroines and dashing heroes.
Faking the Fall: A Buckeye Falls Novel by Libby Kay
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
4 Stars
Faking the Fall is the fourth book in the Buckeye Falls series by Libby Kay. How gorgeous is this cover??? It is definitely my favourite of the whole series- so far. This is the fourth book in the series, but as each instalment focuses on its own particular couple, the books can be read as standalones. But, having said that, there is a cast of recurring characters who really add to the overall reading experience, and are really worth getting to know. So, I recommend starting at the beginning, if you haven’t already- because all the books together equals a lot of fun!
This is another sweet small town contemporary romance- with a fake dating element, drama, a wonderful cast of endearing characters, humour, connection, emotion, expectations, family, friendship, and interesting developments. It is a ‘clean’ romance- suitable for those who prefer their romances on the sweet and less spicy side.
Ms. Kay knows how to weave a heart-warming story and I have enjoyed quite a few of them, so after reading the other three books, I happily snapped up a copy of this as soon as it released- and found it was just as charming and touching as I had expected.
Alice has quite the reputation – her wild child ways have made her the talk of the town. She hopes to put that all behind her when she returns to follow her business dreams. James is a bit if a struggling artist and is fairly new to town. He has lost his inspiration and without it his artist creativity has also dried up. But fate sees that they cross paths.. They have their own agendas here, but working together just might solve both their problems- so they come up with a plan- so let the fake dating begin. What happens makes for a fun read.
Not sure if there is more in store for us in Buckeye Falls- but I certainly hope this isn’t the last we see of Buckeye Falls and all the endearing, quirky characters who help to bring these stories, and Buckeye Falls, to life.. I’m holding out hope for more instalments.
Happy Reading…
Thank you, Libby Kay!
Reviewed by @angelahayes
You and Me Equals Love by Marina Hanna
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
4 Stars
You and Me Equals Love by Marina Hanna is a contemporary romance with a little drama, trust issues, doubts, emotion, friendship, banter, fun, spice, and just enough angst to keep things interesting.
Even though the story was a little predictable, it was still a fun read that entertained me the whole way through. We follow Kate and Ben through some highs and lows, as they take a chance on love.
Worth the read!
I wonder what Ms. Hanna has in store for us next?
Happy Reading…
Thank you, Marina Hanna!
Reviewed by @angelahayes
Faking the Fall: A Buckeye Falls Novel by Libby Kay
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Welcome back to Buckeye Falls, and they are under a hurricane warning. That Hurricane being Hurricane Alice. The prodigal child has returned and decided to stay in Faking the Fall. She officially came back in Anthony and Natalie’s story.
And since I’m referencing it, yes I’ve read it. I love this series. These books work very well as standalone novels, but I feel like they are so much better reading them in succession. This author created a wonderful world. Beautifully difficult characters that you can relate to. Difficult meaning with each other. Now back to our current story.
Alice’s parents want her to take her place in the Snyder family. Settle down, find a husband, hold a job that utilizes all her degrees, and step up to help her family with their political duties. Reality she’s still trying to find herself and this book is her path to self discovery. But perhaps a future too?
James, is starting over. Moving to a small town to rebuild his life. Lending a hand when needed but still the artist that left New York broken. He’s another character who is trying to find himself again. Which is impacting his true passion. His art, being a well known artist. Until one day he’s memorized by this girl with beautiful green eyes. And now the town folks are talking. Stating he’s getting cozy with the mayor’s sister Alice.
Is that what he wants?
Well you are just going to have to read and find out. See the journey these two go on individually as well as together. Sometimes two lost or broken souls are just what’s needed to heal.
And honestly you won’t be disappointed. Enjoy it!
Ignite My Heart by Alicia Street
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Ignite My Heart (North Fork Series Book 2)
I was able to finish this book in just a day even with having to work. I had a hard time putting it down and found myself sneaking a page or two when I had a minute.
Morgan and Blake’s introduction made me laugh out loud but thankfully I wasn’t in the office at the time so it wasn’t necessary to come up with an excuse.
I adored Morgan, Blake and Ciara from the moment I met them and that grew the further I got into it. So many little things made me smile, mostly the moments with Ciara.
I have noted when the next book is released and will be ready to read.
Cruel Love by Isla Vaughn
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
This was a great 5 star read. All I can say is wow, I was pulled right in, we start where the first book ended. My emotions are all over the place while Phoenix struggles to remember Aspen and that she is carrying his baby. All of the characters added a great element to the story. Jillian was not my favorite person at all. Will Phoenix get his memory back? Will they get a HEA? I really enjoyed this book and I can’t wait to read more from this series and author. 1-click and get started today.
Reviewed by @mab54615
View all my reviews
Faking the Fall: A Buckeye Falls Novel by Libby Kay
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
This may be my favorite of the series! I have loved the other three, but reading about and getting to know Alice more was wonderful! Alice is back in Buckeye Falls and living with her parents after a breakup. She has a partime job at the library and works some for her sister in law, but she is still living at home and not sure what to do next. James is a big shot artist from New York who decided to leave the city and move to the small town after his divorce. He has not been painting and has not had any creativity until he sees Alice at the library one day. Alice meets James at the town council meeting and propositions him with a fake dating scenario to get the nosy town off her back. He agrees because he wants to spend more time with her. This was a clean romance with all the feels! I loved the characters, I love the setting of the small town, and I finished this book in a day!
Heart’s Rescue by Meredith Hart
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Arryn is the only daughter of the most successful merchant in the lands above. She is promised to the prince, her beloved. That is what she has been told to call him all of her life. She has been trained in every way to be a lady and is punished by her mother when she does not meet her approval, which is often.
The prince goes missing and with the threat of another betroval, Arryn rides off to find the prince. Aaryn finds herself falling into the lands below and is met by Rowan. Rowan is a sentry of the Outer Wilds when he finds Aaryn. His brother just brutally attacked. He sees Aaryn as a monster.
As the story unwinds and reveals itself, we find that Aaryn has requested MERCY from Rowan to not be killed. Will Rowan honor her request or will he give her the swift justice a monster from the worlds above deserves? You have to read this dynamic book to find out. If you love magic users and worlds divided. This is the book for you. Enjoy!!
Faking the Fall: A Buckeye Falls Novel by Libby Kay
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
5 Stars 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
Faking the Fall is book #4 in the Buckeye Falls series and it was everything that I love about this series. love, banter, fake dating, meddling townfolk, small town sweet romance and just overall great story. While this book could be read as a standalone I highly recommend reading this series from the beginning to get to know the characters that are in each book.
What can honestly happen with a proposition of “fake dating”….beside maybe getting the gossip crew to back off only having good intentions. Alice is back in Buckeye Falls trying to figure out her next steps in life. Having a reputation to hold up being the mayor’s brother and parents who are busy with town social events…..never thought to meet someone that gives her some spark. James is new to town already embracing his life in Buckeye Falls…but also trying to piece together his life after a divorce and hoping to get a spark of inspiration again in his art. When James meets a green eyed beauty in Alice…the inspiration starts…..When the gossip train comes barreling in…..Alice proposes to James to “fake date”….but what happens when true feelings come into play…….
Definitely read and find out!! You will not be disappointed.
Cruel Love by Isla Vaughn
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
I always get so excited when another book in this series comes out because I’ve loved them all, but I also get a little bit scared that the new one won’t be as good as the last. This book put all those fears to rest instantaneously as it sucked me back into the Hidden Valley Elite world. This one picks up to tell Phoenix and Aspen’s story, and it is not one you want to miss! There is drama, angst, and all the steam that comes together to create the perfect story. The flow is again, flawless, and I am beyond excited to see what the author has in store for us next. Please don’t skip out on this book because you’ll regret it! It’s worth mentioning that this is not a standalone either, so be sure to catch up before going on the adventure with Aspen and Phoenix!
Reviewed by @shannlynn
Faking the Fall: A Buckeye Falls Novel by Libby Kay
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
I love this series so much! They’re all so cute and they definitely give me the hallmark feeling! Such a cute cozy read! A lot of tension and some angst in this wonderfully written small town romance! I highly recommend the other books in this series as well! Each book is just as good as the last one! I love Alice and James and I felt like I was there witnessing their story. I can’t wait to read more of Libby’s work! I’m a huge fan! Also, I’m obsessed with every cover of each book! That’s what got me to read the first book and I’ve been hooked ever since!
Faking the Fall: A Buckeye Falls Novel by Libby Kay
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Another wonderful story in this series! I did not realize who Alice was until I started reading this one. She is a misfit within her family. She doesn’t fit their mold and that is fine with her. No marriage, no grandkids until she see the elusive artist in town. Then she starts thinking and seeing a different future for herself. Watching Alice change and grow and delightful to observe. James is a fun guy who looks at life differently from others. I enjoyed their path to get together.
Cruel Love: A College Sports Romance by Isla Vaughn
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Love, love, love this series and the author. The books are filled with love and excitement in all of them. It is very hard to put them down once you start. I highly recommend this series and author!
Wild For Me by Tam DeRudder Jackson
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Wild For Me
By: Tam DeRudder Jackson
Once again Tam DeRudder Jackson has written a fantastic book. I have read each and every one of the books of the Balefire Series so far and each one is better than the next. Tam DeRudder Jackson does a fantastic job developing characters who are believable but who are also rock stars. She shows the life of sex, drugs and rock and roll in all of its glory and does it in such a way that you look at the characters and feel like they are incredibly relatable. The characters in Balefire so far have been so well developed that I truly feel like I know them on a personal level.
These books are each written as a standalone, but I definitely recommend reading each and every one. There is some character overlap between books. Also and perhaps most importantly – if you miss a book you are really missing an essential piece to Balefire. Tam DeRudder Jackson has really created a crazy yet wonderful world around this band and I definitely recommend going along for the full ride. I cannot wait to see what will happen in the next book!
Lies – Truth – Love by Marina Hanna
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Lies – Truth – Love
By: Marina Hanna
This is the first book in the Which Comes First series. I have to say that I thoroughly enjoyed this book and am looking forward to the next book. This book is filled with so many twists and so much drama that it sucks you in from the start and really doesn’t let you go until you finish. Trust me when I say you will not want to put it down once you start reading. Marina Hanna has a fantastic ability in developing her characters. They are definitely portrayed incredibly realistically – especially with how it comes to our two main characters. Ethan and Olivia are very entertaining and are the perfect characters to portray finding live when you least expect it. This isn’t your typical romance and it really contains enough for everyone. This was such a fantastic book and I cannot wait to see how this series continues to develop.
Chasing Cheer by Heather Schneider
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Chasing Cheer
By: Heather Schneider
This is literally such a fun holiday read. It is exactly what I needed to begin to get me into the holiday spirit. This story takes place in the most amazing town called Emerald Hollow, Oregon. It has the best vibe and is filled with the most amazing characters. This is a book that definitely makes you stop and think – as a major theme is finding balance in your life. This book was absolutely fantastic and I loved all the twists on the conventional holiday trope. I definitely recommend this and feel the only thing that would have made this book better is if there had been snow on the ground and I was sitting by the Christmas Tree.