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Romantic Reads and Such

Category Archives: Book Review

Review – Home Ice

30 Tuesday Jun 2026

Posted by romanticreadsandsuch in Blog Tour, Book Review, Contest

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Book Review, Home Ice, Saxon James

Home Ice

by Saxon James

Cover Design: Story Styling Cover Designs

Photography: Wander Aguiar Photography

Model: Jerrin

Discreet Cover Design: Emily Wittig

Blurb:

TAI

Ten years ago, I made the biggest mistake of my life.

When Hawke left for the NHL and my hockey dreams went up in smoke, I ghosted my best and longest friend. It made sense at the time, but there hasn’t been a day where I haven’t missed him.

So when we run into each other again, and his only response is β€œDo I know you?”, I know I deserve it. But I refuse to let one mistake keep us apart forever. Especially when he has bigger problems, and I’m in a position to help him.

JENSEN

All I wanted this offseason was to spend my time relaxing–not getting an emergency phone call from Mom to come home. My hometown is full of too many memories of me and Tai so I avoid returning there as much as I can.

But now I have one more memory to add to the list: my high school girlfriend.

And the kid we apparently had together.

Kasen hates me and thinks I abandoned them, and my only way to get to him is through his coach. My ex-best friend. The friend that has been impossible to forget. No matter how much I’ve tried.

Add to Goodreads Want to Read Shelf

Get It Now

Read with Kindle & Kindle Unlimited

*****

Review:

I think, based on the blurb, that there is some expectation that this is ALL the angst buuuut it really isn’t there. It’s totally understandable that Hawke would be upset with Tai for ghosting him. And about having a son that apparently no one knew about. However if you are reading that and hoping for more, my apologies πŸ™‚

I really enjoyed it tho as Tai and Hawke find their way back to each other, sliding into their close friendship like no time had passed and coming to the realization that maybe it was always something a little more. And poor Tai, who has carried so much on his shoulders for so long, needing to let someone in again to be there for him again. It’s so obvious how much he loves his dad, who makes a great supporting character in the story, but there’s so much guilt and pain wrapped up in the situation for him. Good thing Hawke is stubborn because Tai’s not going to make it easy.

I’ll agree that there could have been a bit more development of Hawke’s relationship with Kason. The book concentrates more on the two MMCs but I did love seeing them grow closer and Hawke realizing what’s important to him. And Kason is such a cute kid with a smart mouth, hiding his hurt, which is totally understandable, and he’s definitely keeping Hawke on his toes.

I’ve only read a couple of James’s books but she is recommended so often and I see why. I love that she brings the feels, doesn’t scrimp on the heat, and delivers it all in a way that has me hooked to the end. It’s not dramatic but it also isn’t easy and full of issues that feel real and give us an oh-so-satisfying HEA when they finally figure things out.

*****

Giveaway:

Enter the KingSumo Giveaway

*****

Author Info:

Saxon James unapologetically writes happy endings for LGBT+ characters.

While not writing, SM is a readaholic and Netflix addict who regularly lives on a sustainable diet of chocolate and coffee.

Member of SCBWI.

Website: https://saxonjamesauthor.com/

Newsletter: https://bit.ly/3BNVADV

Facebook: http://bit.ly/2QSVCmS

Reader Group: http://bit.ly/36slT1W

Goodreads: http://bit.ly/2SYfPKU

Instagram: https://bit.ly/33m1XPb

TikTok: https://bit.ly/3AvMmha

Amazon: https://amzn.to/2ZXjp9C

BookBub: https://bit.ly/3fKt5MC

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Review – Found in the Falls

28 Sunday Jun 2026

Posted by romanticreadsandsuch in Book Review

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Book Review, Devon Falls series, Found in the Falls, J.E. Birk

Found in the Falls

Devon Falls #4

by J.E. Birk

Blurb:

He rescued me in New York. I followed him to Vermont.

After Dr. Milo Warner saves me from humiliation in a hotel hallway, I can’t stop thinking about him. When I get the chance to hide from my problems and open a community center with Milo in a small town called Devon Falls, I take that opportunity and run. But now things between the two of us are heating up fast. Milo protects me from runaway gondolas, takes care of me when I’m injured, shields me from my trauma, and sees power and strength in me that no one else ever has. We keep making jokes about the two of us being the perfect alpha/omega pair, but honestly? I’m not joking.

The problem is that it’s becoming more and more likely our parents will soon run against each other in a high-profile political primary race. Milo and I have both been burned by the public spotlight before, and we understand the dangerous territory we’re wading into. When we uncover a secret that’s been kept from our parents, one thing becomes clear: Milo and I will both need to take some big risks if we plan to fight for each other.

Found in the Falls comes with an older doctor who struggles to suppress his protective side, a younger social worker who just wants to make the world better, a sweet rescue dog they accidentally adopt together, and the Devon Falls found family they both desperately need. This is the fourth book in the Devon Falls series, but it can be read as a standalone.

*****

Review:

There is a little Alpha/Omega play (Omegaverse?) here and since it’s not my normal type of read I can’t answer how well the author delivers it. But I felt it works for them as a couple and the dynamic they are developing. I love that Noah gains confidence thru Milo’s protection and their deepening relationship.

There’s plenty of humor and steam and, my favorite, a large dose of found family as Noah settles into his job in Devon Falls. I love how Birk finds a way to mix a light-hearted read, with the depth of trauma & hurt that her main characters bring. It’s an easy read but with growth & feels.

I read Fanboy in the Falls, book 3 in this series, and really enjoyed it. It really wasn’t necessary in order to read this one but I like the fact that Birk and this series are pushing me a little outside my normal reads. I’ll definitely be keeping my eye out for what comes next.

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Review – Surprise Me Always

28 Sunday Jun 2026

Posted by romanticreadsandsuch in Blog Tour, Book Review

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Book Review, Claimed On Sight series, Dani Elias, Surprise Me Always

Surprise Me Always

Claimed On Sight #2

by Dani Elias

Blurb:

A single weekend. A quiet connection. And a choice that refuses to be forgotten.

PHILIP

I wasn’t supposed to meet anyone. My life is already mapped out. Safe. Sensible. Predictable. Then I meet Mark.
One impulsive decision turns into a weekend I already know has an end date. It’s meant to be simple. Temporary. But it isn’t. Somewhere between the slow touches and the way he looks atΒ meΒ like I matter, it starts to feel dangerously real. And real is exactly what I can’t afford. So I leave. Because IΒ alwaysΒ choose the life that makes sense, even when it feels like I’m walking away from something that could have been everything.

MARK

I didn’t expect Philip. I didn’t expect the way he gets under my skin, or how easily he lets himself feel when he forgets to hold back. He tellsΒ meΒ it’s just a weekend. I can see the walls he hides behind, the careful distance he keeps. I let him go anyway. Because some people need to make their own mistakes before they’re ready to choose something real. But when he leaves, he takes more with him than he realises.

Distance should have been the end of it. Instead, it turns everything sharper, clearer, harder to ignore. Because it’s one thing to make the sensible choice. It’s another to live with it. Some risks aren’t worth taking. And some feel impossible to walk away from twice.

Surprise Me Always is a standalone MM romance set in an interconnected world. It is written in British English and can be read independently.

*****

Review:

I really enjoyed this as an instalove story. The two of them have an amazing weekend together, one where they fall so very quickly. But that’s not how things work, right? It’s not sensible to change your entire life for someone you’ve only known for a few hours, right?

I appreciate that Elias had them separate instead of just spend two days together and live HEA. It works, especially with Philip’s personality, and gives them an opportunity to really reflect on their time together. To decide what’s real.

Surprise Me Always mixes humor and emotion and steam in a fun little package. It’s such an easy read and well paced, with enjoyable characters and an adorable little neurotic hamster that steals the show.

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Review – The Troublemaker

25 Thursday Jun 2026

Posted by romanticreadsandsuch in Blog Tour, Book Review

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Book Review, Piper Rayne, The Dugout series, The Troublemaker

The Troublemaker

The Dugout #4

by Piper Rayne

Blurb:

A fake marriage deal was never in my life’s plan.

Especially not to Easton Bailey.

Chicago Colts flashy shortstop.

The kind of man built for a good time and allergic to forever.

And the one who just slid a ring on my finger… on paper.

It’s supposed to be simple.

A mutually beneficial arrangement.

I play nanny to his son. He plays husband to my family.

No emotions. No complications. And absolutely no falling for each other.

Turns out pretending to be a family is the fastest way to break every rule we set.

Because he watches me like it was never just a deal.

Because he trusts me with the person who matters most.

Because the more we pretend, the less fake it feels.

And now the man who was never supposed to stay is the one I can’t lose.

Goodreads: https://bit.ly/48RvRgf

Download today or read for FREE with Kindle Unlimited

https://books2read.com/ttm

Duet Narration by: Connor Crais & Christine Lakin
Also featuring: JF Harding, Sean Masters, Teddy Hamilton, CJ Bloom, Erin Mallon, Willa Jaymes, Meg Sylvan & Austin Stone

*****

Review:

Oh my goodness, daddy Easton is a dream – love me a single dad and reformed playboy mixed together! Even freaking out he’s swoony πŸ™‚ Also love how supportive the Baileys are (no surprise) and my heart goes out to Hadley for not having that growing up. I would have liked to see more of her with the other girls because she needs more positivity and support in her life. But Easton definitely shows up for her. Ooof, then there’s Tanner’s mom resolution … Glad they all have created a little family unit together, to be there for each other because there were definitely times they needed it. (Found family like this is one of my favorite things in books.)

My only real complaint with this one is I would have loved a little more of Easton and Hadley from before. They seemed like they had a bit of a connection, not friends-with-benefits but maybe more benefits-with-a-friend. They develop a lovely little unit, pretty quickly, and I would like to have seen some hints of that before, ya know?

Piper Rayne delivers some delicious single dad, fake marriage, close proximity, single bed tropes with this one. I’m sad to see this group of friends go but I really enjoyed how they all got their HEA. And that epilogue not only ties things up wonderfully but definitely gives us a taste of what’s to come & I can’t wait!

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Review – Thunderstruck

22 Monday Jun 2026

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Book Review, Beth Bolden, Toronto Thunder series, Thunderstruck

Thunderstruck

Toronto Thunder #4

by Beth Bolden

Tropes:Β bisexual awakening, stepbrother romance, forbidden romance, forced proximity, opposites attract, teammate x teammate

Blurb:

When Lane realizes he’s attracted to his straight stepbro, he’s absolutely thunderstruck . . .

It’s not the worst day of Lane’s life when his team, the Toronto Thunder, drafts his baby stepbro, Trevor, but it’s close.

No. The worst day was when his mom married Trevor’s dad. Trevor’s just too good, too naΓ―ve, too sheltered. Too hot.

Lane might claim he wants nothing to do with him, but that’s the worst delusion of all. He’s always wanted everything to do with Trevor. Even when they have zero in common. Even when Trevor’s always been on the straight and narrow. Literally.

Lane’s the total opposite. He’s walkedβ€”and danced and sashayedβ€”to the beat of his own drum, forever. Mentoring Trevor now that they’re on the same team? Sounds like his idea of hellβ€”and heaven, too. There’s a reason their teammates call them the demon twins.

But with the final few games of the season and the Thunders’ playoff run looming, Lane’s self-control is weaker than ever. Especially when Trevor confesses that he’s been thinking about it, too.

Suggesting Trevor experiment with their mutual attraction would be a terrible idea, but Lane’s had worse, and that’s never stopped him before.

And when it becomes way more than just sex? When Trevor becomes the first guy he wants to see in the mornings and the last thing before he goes to bed at night? When they’re so completely entangled together that he couldn’t get free, even if he wanted to?

That’s a special kind of thunder.

Available on:Β Amazon, Kindle Unlimited, paperback (model & discreet), and audio narrated by Darcy Stark (est early July)

https://readerlinks.com/l/5430374

*****

Review:

I could not put this one down and read it in about a day. That prologue just made me hurt for Lane and it explains so much of the dynamic between the two. But once things become different, once they have the chance to explore an attraction between them … at one point Cam calls men “the most thickheaded morons” when in love and I couldn’t agree more πŸ™‚

Both of them are so hesitant and so unsure about the other. But as their experiment turns into feelings and those feelings deepen, things get even more complicated and neither is really sure what to do about it. Especially Lane who has spent so many years having to repress his feelings, and now no longer able to with Trevor in his home. In all his caring, sweet, earnestness while telling him that he may be into guys. Poor Lane didn’t have a chance.

Bolden’s characters are always so appealing and so delicious in their downfall that I don’t even need to read the blurb to know that it’s a must read. And once again she delivers a steamy slow burn, low angst, idiots-to-lovers romance but at least Lane & Trevor are fun in their idiocy.

*****

Author Info:

A lifelong Oregonian, Beth Bolden has just recently moved to North Carolina with her supportive husband and their sweet kitten, Earl Grey. Beth still believes in Keeping Portland Weird, and intends to be just as weird in Raleigh.

Beth has been writing practically since she learned the alphabet. Unfortunately, her first foray into novel writing, titled Big Bear with Sparkly Earrings, wasn’t a bestseller, but hope springs eternal. She’s published fourteen novels and five short stories.

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Review – Through the Storm

22 Monday Jun 2026

Posted by romanticreadsandsuch in Blog Tour, Book Review

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Book Review, Ironvale Ridge, Natalie Parker, Owens Wildlife Wardens, Through the Storm

Through the Storm

Owens Wildlife Wardens – Ironvale Ridge #1

by Natalie Parker

Blurb:

I never thought I’d get married…let alone to a man I’ve had to pull a gun on.

Twice.

But I also couldn’t have anticipated some sleazy land developer would threaten to take my home.

If I don’t get married to fulfill some stupid clause in my grandparents’ will…

I’ll lose everything.

Until game warden Wolf Owens steps in and claims to be my fiancΓ©.

Beyond staring down the barrel of my weapon, we barely know each other.

The handsome, stoic man has no reason to help me beyond protecting the land we both love so much…

Yet from the moment we share our first kiss as husband and wife, this fake marriage starts to feel very real.

With each heated look…

Every lingering touch…

We grow closer.

Until the only thing I’m afraid of losing is him.

Grab this small town romance featuring a feisty veterinarian heroine who doesn’t want to need anyone else and a reclusive man who has never let himself want who find love in the wilderness and hope in each other.

Buy Link:
https://a.co/d/0dnwlyHu
Available in KU

*****

Review:

Wolf is on the spectrum but Molly appreciates him for who he is and I love that for them both. They struggle a little trying to figure out how a relationship between them works, neither having any real experience being in a couple. Add in some childhood trauma & insecurities on both their parts and it isn’t a smooth road.

But I’m so proud of Molly for her patience and willingness to understand Wolf but to also push when it’s needed. And Wolf for asking for help and stepping up when required. They are just so sweet together, fully embracing each other and slowly creating a home that fits them both.

There’s a bit of a suspense element towards the end, but really the story is about these two falling in love and I could not have asked for anything more. This is the first book of Parker’s that I’ve read but it is a delightful introduction and I can’t wait to see where she goes with Wolf’s brothers.

*****

Author Info:

Natalie Parker resides in the Seattle area with her husband and two rugrats, but is originally a Michigan girl.

She always enjoyed writing and noticed she had a knack for it while earning her Psychology degree and has always been an avid reader, but never thought of becoming an author until one day there seemed to be a story to tell.

In her spare time, she enjoys reading, reading, reading to her kids, drinking coffee, reading, occasional yardwork, reading, listening to music, reading and writing.

Connect with Natalie Parker:

https://www.instagram.com/natalie.parker.author

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Review – Double Dared

21 Sunday Jun 2026

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Book Review, Double Dared, Hayden Hall, The Boys of Elmwood U series

Double Dared

The Boys of Elmwood U #2

by Hayden Hall

Blurb:

I’m not the kind of guy who turns down a dare. This is a lifestyle choice. I have committed to it fully, proudly, and without a single second thought.

So when Greg pointed across the bar at a man reading poetry alone in a black turtleneck and said “get him to agree to a date,” I was halfway out of the booth before the sentence finished.

Enter film student, built like an athlete, reads like a scholar, and has clearly never once left the house without putting on a fashion show for strangers. He saw through my opening line before I finished delivering it. He said yes to the date before I could ask. He also had his own agenda entirely.

His ex had moved on faster than he was prepared for. I needed a dare to brag about. So we struck a three weeks of convincing, mutually beneficial fake dating. His ex would reconsider. My fraternity brothers would think the dare had backfired so spectacularly that I was, apparently, in love with a man.

Easy.

Except when his hand settled on the small of my back in a crowded market and my brain went somewhere it had no business going. Except when he leaned in close to say something and I forgot what language was. Except when I caught myself watching his mouth and had to physically relocate my eyes.

I never met a dare I couldn’t handle. I just never expected one to handle me right back.

Double Dared is the second novel in The Boys of Elmwood U series, but it can be read as a standalone. It features one film student with a broken heart and an ill-advised theory about grand romance, one fraternity jock who has just discovered, somewhat inconveniently, that he has a type, and a fake-dating scenario that will bewilder, boggle, and befuddle its way to an accidentally happy ending.

*****

Review:

Aww, idiots in love. My favorite!

Taylor has so much golden retriever energy – charming, loved by everyone, and always up for something fun. It’s so easy to see why he knocks Harrison off kilter, there’s absolutely no way to prepare yourself for the vibrancy of Taylor. And Harrison’s more subdued, old-soul vibe is a good match for it. As they find themselves spending time together as part of their pact, it takes about half a second to develop into something more. They just need a bit to catch on πŸ™‚

Taylor’s go-with-the-flow attitude is apparent as he starts to realize exactly what his growing feelings for Harrison really means. And Harrison is more than willing to help him discover himself, his desires, and his feelings. It’s spicy, a smidge kinky, but very compelling as they explore their connection. Taylor so trusting & open to exploring everything under Harrison’s guidance & care. It’s a bit insta-lust / insta-love but I don’t know that I even noticed how quickly things happen for them. The progression seemed very natural and Hall paces it well.

Low angst, slow burn, and spicy, I’m loving this series by Hall. They’ve been fun to read with a good mix of humor and heat and characters that just grabbed me from page 1. After this and Extra Credit, I’m definitely putting him on my must read list and I can’t wait to see what comes next!

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Review – Knight

18 Thursday Jun 2026

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Book Review, DJ Jamison, Knight, Redemption Road series

Knight

Redemption Road #1

by DJ Jamison

Blurb:

They call me Knight because I’m always trying to save someone…

Unfortunately, I can’t even save myself most of the time. I didn’t save myself from getting involved with the wrong people, from taking the fall for a guy I thought I loved, or from being betrayed by him.

Redemption Road gives me a fresh start. a new family of men who know what it’s like to make mistakes, and a chance to meet a guy who actually deserves my heart. Only problem? He’s a doctor going places far from Riverton–and he’s way too smart to fall for a con like me.

Especially when my past shows up and tries to drag me back into the biker gang I thought I’d escaped.

There’s no running from them. I’ll have to fight if I want my freedom. And there’s a good chance I won’t come out of it alive.

This time, I’ll have to save myself. But as the other ex-cons at Redemption Road step up, I realize I’m not alone. I finally have people who care about me.

And my best friend’s brother, Aiden, tops that list. He’s not only my roommate and casual hookup. He’s becoming the center of my world.

But unless I end this, I can’t stay with him. I’d only put him in danger. So there’s really no choice.

I’m going to get my happy ending–or die trying.

https://geni.us/Redemption1

*****

Review:

I loved Aiden & Knight together, both of them bringing more than their fair share of baggage into their relationship. Aiden because he carries a lot of guilt and responsibility for his brother’s time in prison and Knight with his feelings of being unworthy because of his past. But they worked so well together, fit just right. Both of them found a way to take care of the other. Lifting each other up and reminding them of their worth.

This is my first book from Jamison but it definitely will not be my last. Knight caught my attention from the first page and held it til the last. It was funny and steamy but also a little heartbreaking as it touched on the difficulties of life after prison and the problems of rural communities getting reliable health care. I’m sure returning readers loved the opportunity to catch up with previous couples but even as a new reader it was fine. I liked this big, boisterous group of friends and how loud & openly they love one another and look forward to seeing them again.

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Review – Wanting My Husband

15 Monday Jun 2026

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Bec Benson, Book Review, Lexi Amber, Love Without Labels series, Wanting My Husband

Wanting My Husband

Love Without Labels #3

by Lexi Amber & Bec Benson

Blurb:

JOHN

I’ve never met anyone who bothers me more than Chad Sinclair.

He’s always smiling, always happy β€” excited about life in a way I truly cannot comprehend. A spoiled city guy who acts like he’s never heard the word no before.

I can’t believe I drunkenly married him in Vegas.

Or that he showed up at my farmhouse, ready to give up his whole life to play happy husbands with me in the middle of nowhere.

Chad might have convinced himself we’re meant to be, but I gave up on that kind of future a long time ago.

CHAD

I’ve always believed things work out for me β€” and getting my husband to admit he wants me is no exception.

John Sullivan might be grumpy, closed-off, and determined to pretend this means nothing, but he still chose me. He married me. He said I do, and I’m not ready to let that go just because he’s pretending he is.

He can say there’s no way we can work, but I’m stubborn enough to stay and keep proving him wrong.

A grumpy/sunshine MM romance about a woke-up-married couple navigating life after loss, small-town living, and the kind of heat that burns slowest when you’re trying your hardest to resist it.

Please note that this is a standalone spinoff of their Love Without Labels series and that it does not take place on the reality show. It can be read solely on its own.

Add to Goodreads Want to Read Shelf

Read with Kindle & Kindle Unlimited

Tropes: Grumpy x sunshine, opposites attract, woke up married, trust fund x blue collar, city x small town, pierced/tattooed MMC, secret relationship, β€œno emotions just s*x”, kink/bdsm exploration (shibari, sensory deprivation, temperature play, dom/sub, restraints/bondage, marking, c*ck-warming, edging, praise, toys), processing grief, only one bed, first times, caretaking, pining

*****

Review:

Chad is the brightest of sunshine-y, golden retriever, sweetheart characters. He’s so kind and positive and happy, the complete opposite of John, but he’s also confident in their relationship. He sometimes comes off as naive so I wish we’d gotten some more of their interactions in Vegas because I would love to see why he is so very convinced about John’s feelings. We get glimpses and I definitely admire Chad for how sure he is of their connection but I wanted even more. (Plus they are adorable together when John lets go and embraces everything Chad.)

That enthusiasm for pretty much everything brings humor & lightness and is a good foil for John’s reserve. He’s a very private person, keeping his feelings close, separating himself from friends & family and dealing with his grief alone. But even he isn’t able to resist Chad. I’m glad we get John’s POV because I think it would be hard to be understanding of how he treats Chad without it. He’s not cruel but he can be pretty curt. (This is another place where I think more of their Las Vegas interactions would have helped.)

Wanting My Husband is spicy & funny & emotional as Chad helps John address his past & look towards a possible future together. John may be in charge in the bedroom but Chad is a rock for him as they lean into their growing feelings. The way that Chad understands and takes care of John as he shows him that it is OK to love again, to be happy again, is just … *sigh* so sweet.

*****

Author Info:

Lexi is an American author who is obsessed with queer happily ever afters. Most of her time is spent with her two kids, but if they’re asleep, then she is either reading, writing, or watching hockey.

Professionally trained as a nurse, Lexi decided to start writing when she became a stay at home mom and the characters in her head haven’t stopped talking since.

Lexi also loves Diet Coke, traveling, and Halloween. Her house is probably obnoxiously decorated for whatever holiday is next because she thinks that little things that make people smile are important.

Website: https://lexiamber.com/

Newsletter: https://geni.us/TFQx6c

Facebook: https://geni.us/QC1i4e

Reader Group: https://geni.us/naZYr29

Goodreads: https://geni.us/Rbd5

Instagram: https://geni.us/rllLg

TikTok: https://geni.us/d4O1bP

Amazon: https://amzn.to/4vGrL34

BookBub: https://geni.us/otdK

Bec Benson is based in the Northeast, lives for the first sip of hot coffee in the morning, and genuinely believes emo music can make you happy. She’s obsessed with mgk, a good uninterrupted writing session, and queer romance novels.

Website: https://becbenson.com/

Newsletter: https://geni.us/90N9pqT

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Review – I Love an … Earl

11 Thursday Jun 2026

Posted by romanticreadsandsuch in Book Review

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Book Review, Eden Era series, I Love an ... Earl, Sarah Bell

I Love an … Earl

Eden Era #1

by Sarah Bell

Blurb:

Who needs a fairytale, when you’ve got a fancy dress wedding.

Dragged to her best friend’s Tudor-themed wedding at Hever Castle, Hayley Price figured she could handle a few costume changes and a little harmless role play.

She was not expecting a corset out for blood, a hostile hedge, or a persistently problematic peacock.

Paired with Tyler Ashford… insufferable, inconveniently attractive, and cast as the earl. Their mission is simple: pretend to be madly in love.

Easy… right? Stay in character. Convince the audience.

But as the weekend unravels into a comedy of errors and sparks fly, their fake romance starts to feel dangerously real. Complete with wardrobe malfunctions, rogue hair rollers, and a leading man who thinks the bathtub is a perfectly acceptable place to flirt.

Happily ever after wasn’t in the script, and enemies-to-lovers has never looked so undignified.

*****

Review:

I found this book to be a hoot. Very Bridget Jones’s Diary, with a clumsy, trouble-prone heroine and a more staid hero who is charmed by her. Based on Goodreads, it looks like Bell is a new author and she’s got lots of things going for her. There’s entertaining humor and banter, also sweetness as Hayley gets to know Tyler even better. Could there have been more depth? Probably. Were there scenes missing that would have enhanced the story? Sure. I would love to get a better understanding of why Tyler is the black sheep & some of his history and see some more interactions of both of them with their friends. But even with a few plot holes, I was overall just as charmed as Tyler. And I’m definitely going to be looking out for more from this author.

*****

Author Info:

Sarah Bell writes swoony, slow-burn, romances full of flirty banter, emotional depth, and those deliciously heart-twisting moments that lead to unforgettable happily-ever-afters.

She believes love should make you laugh as much as it makes you feel, and her books deliver both in equal measure.

Based in West Sussex, England, Sarah writes from a makeshift office planted firmly in the middle of family chaos, wedged between plastic toys, PlayStation controllers, and far too many abandoned colouring pages.

She writes what she affectionately calls Baby Spice Sarah-lit: perfectly imperfect, emotionally honest romance designed to make you laugh, ache, and fall in love.

Her books blend humour, warmth, vulnerability, and longing, capturing romance at its most human.

http://www.sarahbell.co.uk

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FTC Disclaimer - see bottom of page for complete statement, but please be aware that in many cases I am provided a book to read. However my opinions are my own & no guarantee of positive review is given by any party.

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