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Romantic Reads and Such

Category Archives: Book Review

Review – Choosing You

21 Wednesday May 2025

Posted by romanticreadsandsuch in Blog Tour, Book Review

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Book Review, Choosing You, Samantha Chase, The Donovans series

Choosing You

The Donovans Series

by Samantha Chase

Blurb:

They’ve been in an intimate relationship for three years.

They’ve just never met.

Will Campbell has been in an interesting relationship for the last three years—with a woman he doesn’t know. Every time he’s worked the kissing booth at a Sweetbriar Ridge festival, he’s been kissed by the same mysterious woman. It’s the same thing every time—a steamy kiss that leaves you wanting more and then a disappearing act. But this year? He vows to stop her and convince her to do more than just kiss and run.

Being mysterious is fun, but Sloane Donovan is tired of the kiss and run game she’s been playing for years. It might have all started as a dare, but now she wants more. Now that her sister is Sweetbriar Ridge’s newest resident, she has even more reasons to visit, and she vows that at the next festival she won’t run away after the kiss. But maybe she doesn’t have to wait until a festival to find the sexy man who kisses like a dream. Maybe she can just drive around Sweetbriar Ridge until she finds him.

With the next festival on the horizon, Will has a plan. But that plan goes out the window when he unexpectedly runs into his mystery woman. This time, he’s determined not to let her get away, so he does the only thing he can think of—kiss her. And he keeps kissing, hoping she’ll choose to give them a real chance.

Buy Link:

https://geni.us/Donovans-ChoosingYou

*****

Review:

I liked Sloane and Will together – how they met and kept coming together, how the are formally finally formally introduced, and the way things work out for them. But I did have a few problems.

Both characters came across as a bit immature. I’m not sure how old Sloane’s supposed to be, and she recognizes her own immaturity, but I struggled a bit with her. And I did not like AT ALL how people treated Will. It was almost like he was a child … or a joke to them. He’s enthusiastic and a bit clumsy but I can’t tell if his immaturity was on him or the way that other people interacted with him. I felt like he deserved so much better.

Overall not my favorite by Chase but still a solid story. I felt like they had a pretty solid romance between them and it had its moments of quirky fun. Returning readers will love seeing all of the Donovans and seeing the big loving family come together for Sloane and Will.

*****

Author Info:

Samantha Chase is a New York Times and USA Today bestseller of contemporary romance that’s hotter than sweet, sweeter than hot. She released her debut novel in 2011 and currently has more than eighty titles under her belt – including THE CHRISTMAS COTTAGE which was a Hallmark Christmas movie in 2017 and THE WEDDING SEASON which was a Hallmark wedding movie in 2023! She’s a Disney enthusiast who still happily listens to 80’s rock. When she’s not working on a new story, she spends her time reading romances, playing way too many games of Solitaire when she should be writing, wearing a tiara while playing with her sassy pug Maylene…oh, and spending time with her husband of 32 years and their two sons in Wake Forest, North Carolina.

Connect with Samantha Chase:

https://linkin.bio/samanthachaseromance

~

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Review – Hold the Line

15 Thursday May 2025

Posted by romanticreadsandsuch in Blog Tour, Book Review

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Book Review, Hold the LIne, Julia Wolf, The Kelly Ranch series

Hold the Line

The Kelly Ranch Book Two

by Julia Wolf

Blurb:

Deacon Slater was my high school crush—the bad boy with haunted eyes that made my heart skip a beat. But in our small town, the Slater name is synonymous with trouble, and Deke lived up to it when he landed in prison a few years after graduation.

He served his time and now he’s back, living in the apartment above mine, covered in ink and even more intriguing than before.

As the owner of Sugar Rush bakery, I’m used to building bridges with my muffins and cookies. I’ve seen cowboys nearly come to blows over the last lemon bar. But Deke wants nothing to do with my treats…or me. He keeps his distance, barely speaking when I knock on his door.

Until the day he doesn’t have a choice.

He’s there when I need him, stepping in to protect me, showing me the caring man beneath his rough edges.

We couldn’t be more different. I’m a curvy ray of sunshine in a pink apron and he’s a stoic, tattooed carpenter in work boots. But the more walls we tear down, the closer we get. And piece by piece, we discover how well we fit.

But when darkness from his past comes looking for him, what we’re building could all fall apart. Because this time, trouble isn’t just circling Deacon Slater.

It’s coming for us both.

Goodreads: https://bit.ly/43Y0Bd1

Download today or read for FREE with Kindle Unlimited

Amazon: https://bit.ly/42ifANK

*****

Review:

Deacon is back after a few years in prison. Between his record and his less than respectable family, he’s struggling with how he’s perceived by others in his small home town. And his sweet downstairs neighbor, his childhood crush.

Phoebe had a thing for Deacon when they were kids, and a decade away hasn’t changed it much. Kindness and understanding, and a few sweet treats, has them developing a friendship of sorts. That develops into something more.

Like See It Through, the characters just shine in this series. Both Phoebe and Deacon have some baggage from their pasts (granted his is heavier than hers) but with time and patience they figure things out. And work to create a healthy, long term relationship. Wolf delivers another story that is emotional, steamy, and oh so satisfying.

*****

Author Info:

Julia Wolf writes sexy rockers, broken bad boys, snarky heroines, and bad ass women. She’s a firm believer in happily ever afters, no matter how rocky the road is to get there.

Julia lives in Maryland with her husband and three crazy, beautiful children. When she’s not writing romance, she’s reading it. Some of her favorite things are, in no particular order: goats, books, coffee, and Target.

Connect with Julia

Website: http://juliawolfwrites.com

Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/17563191.Julia_Wolf

Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/stores/Julia-Wolf/author/B078VDJ3Z1

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AuthorJuliaWolf

Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/2086152844974595

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/authorjuliawolf/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/JuliaIsWriting

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@authorjuliawolf

Bookbub: https://www.bookbub.com/profile/julia-wolf

Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/authorjuliawolf/

~


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Review – Your Pucking Mom

01 Thursday May 2025

Posted by romanticreadsandsuch in Blog Tour, Book Review

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Book Review, Ravens Hockey series, Vee Taylor, Your Pucking Mom

Your Pucking Mom

Ravens Hockey Book One

by Vee Taylor

Blurb:

Our latest superstar is my newest problem.
Until I meet his mother…

Chicago Ravens captain Ledger Cole believes in earning your stripes, not coasting on golden boy status. So when Austin Hart becomes the NHL’s youngest signee, Ledger is determined to give him a pretty steep learning curve.

Auburn Hart is barely clinging onto her son’s meteoric rise to stardom. Uprooted to a new city, a new job (working in a coffee shop in your thirties is fiiine, right?) and being forced to keep an eye on Austin’s troublemaking tendencies is…a lot.

When loneliness and chance create the perfect hookup, neither Auburn nor Ledger realizes their awkward real-life connection — until the truth spills out. But with more than one career at stake, and Auburn’s scars hovering at the door, they can’t just follow this irresistible pull. Can they?

Your Pucking Mom is a dual POV, forbidden love, forced proximity hockey romance for fans of Becka Mack.

https://a.co/d/7OqibtQ
Available in KU

*****

Review:

TW: for abusive relationship with her mom and past sexual assault

Auburn has a lot of trauma she’s spent years working on, and she still has a long way to go. (I do kinda wish she was still seeing a therapist because I think that it’s needed, especially with the move and changes in her & Austin’s lives.) Her connection to Ledger, tho, is pretty hard to ignore.

For not having had a relationship before, Ledger is a pretty stand up guy … as well, as a sexy and forceful. I appreciate the patience he takes with Auburn, in and out of the bedroom. He’s supportive, caring, and understanding.

Some may have an issue with how quickly they fall into a sexual relationship together, but I think that it works OK knowing that she’s been thru therapy. Getting her POV for it helps as well. Not that making that step is easy or without bumps (big bumps) along the way.

This is the first by Taylor that I’ve read. While the writing isn’t what I am used to (it’s a little quirky) and there are some times when it feels like things don’t flow quite right, overall I enjoyed it a lot. I’ll be interested in seeing what comes next in this series.

*****

Author Info:

Vee Taylor is a passionate writer based in the suburbs of Chicago. With a lovingly supportive husband, two dogs, and two children, she finds inspiration in her daily life and uses it to fuel her writing. Her passion for reading and writing began ten years ago, and she hasn’t looked back since.

As an avid book lover, Vee is obsessed with all things bookish. She loves exploring new worlds, discovering new characters, and delving into different genres. Her favorite genres include dark romance, romantasy, and good ole smut. When she’s not writing, she can often be found with her nose buried in a book or scrolling aimlessly on social media.

Aside from writing, Vee is also a talented photographer that worked for years in the wedding industry. She loves spending time with her friends and family, and enjoys trying new things. With a zest for life and an unwavering passion for writing, Vee Taylor is so excited that you are here on this journey with her.

Connect with Vee Taylor:

https://linktr.ee/veetaylorauthor

~

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Review – Love, Lies, and Whiskey

01 Thursday May 2025

Posted by romanticreadsandsuch in Blog Tour, Book Review, Sneak Peek

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Book Review, Love Lies and Whiskey, Melissa Foster, The Whiskeys series, The Whiskeys: Dark Knights at Redemption Ranch

Get ready to fall hard for the mysterious Seeley “Doc” Whiskey and the one woman he never thought would walk back into his life, in this sexy and emotional second-chance standalone romance. The Whiskeys: Dark Knights at Redemption Ranch is a small-town, big-family series of standalone romance novels featuring fiercely loyal, insanely sexy bikers who give horses—and people—a second chance. No cliffhangers, no cheating, and a happily ever after that will leave you breathless. 

Love, Lies, and Whiskey

The Whiskeys: Dark Knights at Redemption Ranch

by Melissa Foster

World Literary Press

Blurb:

First loves that were ripped apart, and the epic love that saves them.

At nineteen, Seeley “Doc” Whiskey fell hard for the governor’s daughter, and then she was torn away. He risked his life and his family’s legacy to get her back, only to find out that everything he believed about her was a lie. His heart has been locked down ever since.

Betrayed by everyone she loves, Juliette Chambers has been through hell and back. Now a single mother and veterinarian, Juliette moves back to Colorado to start over. The last person she expects to run into is the man who completely destroyed her.

A chance encounter turns into a moment of fury, sending them into an emotional maelstrom. Tears and accusations fly and passion ignites, but in their wake they discover a trail of secrets and lies and a life-changing blow that takes them to their knees.

Goodreads link: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/210669710-love-lies-and-whiskey 

Goodreads series link: https://www.goodreads.com/series/324539 

BUY DIRECT FROM MELISSA AND SAVE➜  https://bit.ly/shop_LLW
*Special edition ebook EXCLUSIVELY available in my shop

KINDLE: https://lnk.to/LLW_Kindle

APPLE: https://lnk.to/LLW_Apple

NOOK: https://lnk.to/LLW_Nook

KOBO:  https://lnk.to/LLW_Kobo

GPLAY: https://lnk.to/LLW_GPlay

STANDARD & SPECIAL EDITION PAPERBACK: https://melissafoster.com/LLW

HARDBACK: https://lnk.to/LLW_Hb

Audio narrated by Aiden Snow and Erin Mallon
EXCLUSIVE PRE-ORDER SHOP: https://bit.ly/LLW_audio

*****

Excerpt:

Sneak Peek: https://melissafoster.com/love-lies-whiskey-sneak-peek/ 

*****

Review:

The Whiskeys are stand up people and Doc is no different. He can be grumpy and rigid but he’s hiding a heart of gold, one bruised by a lost love. Meeting her again, learning the truth, gives them another chance and bringing out the man he used to be.

Juliette is a good match for Doc. She had a rough start but she’s created a good life for herself & her son and getting to the truth of their past also has her looking at the future with brighter eyes. And with Doc & the other Whiskey’s at her side, she’ll find out that she can face down just about anything life has for her.

Foster’s latest did not go at all like I expected. And it was a gut punch every step of the way. From Juliette and Doc’s meeting again after so long, to finding out the truth of what happened all those years ago, getting to know each other again and the troubles life sometimes gives you. It’s emotional hit after emotion hit, both good and bad. Make sure you are ready, then throw yourself whole body into this roller coaster of a read!

*****

Author Info:

Melissa Foster is a New York Times, Wall Street Journal & USA Today bestselling and award-winning author. She writes sexy and heartwarming contemporary romance and new adult romance with emotionally compelling characters that stay with you long after you turn the last page. Melissa’s emotional journeys are lovingly erotic and always family oriented–perfect beach reads for contemporary romance lovers who enjoy reading about wealthy heroes and smart, sassy heroines.

Website:  http://www.melissafoster.com/
Facebook:  http://www.facebook.com/MelissaFosterAuthor
Twitter:  https://twitter.com/Melissa_Foster
GoodReads:  https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/3023973.Melissa_Foster
Newsletter: http://melissafoster.com/newsletter/
BookBub: https://www.bookbub.com/authors/melissa-foster
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/melissafoster_author/
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@melissafoster_author

*****

THE TROUBLE WITH WHISKEY (Book One) – Now Available (My Review HERE)

BUY DIRECT FROM MELISSA AND SAVE➜ https://shop.melissafoster.com/ 

➜KINDLE: https://smarturl.it/TWW_Kindle

➜APPLE: https://melissafoster.com/TTWW_Apple

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➜KOBO: https://melissafoster.com/TTWW_Kobo

➜GPLAY: https://melissafoster.com/TTWW_GPlay

➜PAPERBACK and SPECIAL EDITIONS: https://melissafoster.com/TTWW

➜Audio, narrated by Jacob Morgan and Savannah Peachwood
➜AUDIBLE: https://smarturl.it/TWWa_Audible

➜AMAZON: https://smarturl.it/TWWa_Amazon

➜APPLE: https://smarturl.it/TWWa_Apple

FREEING SULLY – Prequel to FTLOW (Book Two) – Now Available

BUY DIRECT FROM MELISSA AND SAVE➜ https://shop.melissafoster.com/

➜KINDLE: https://lnk.to/FS_Kindle

➜APPLE: https://lnk.to/FS_Apple

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➜KOBO: https://lnk.to/FS_Kobo

➜GPLAY: https://lnk.to/FS_GPlay

➜PAPERBACK: https://lnk.to/FS_Pb

Audio narrated by Meg Sylvan 
➜AUDIBLE: https://lnk.to/FSa_Audible

➜AMAZON: https://lnk.to/FSa_Amazon

➜APPLE: https://lnk.to/FSa_Apple

FOR THE LOVE OF WHISKEY (Book Three) – Now Available (My Review HERE)

BUY DIRECT FROM MELISSA AND SAVE➜ https://shop.melissafoster.com/

➜KINDLE: https://smarturl.it/FTLOW_Kindle 

➜APPLE: https://smarturl.it/FTLOW_Apple 

➜NOOK: https://smarturl.it/FTLOW_Nook 

➜KOBO: https://smarturl.it/FTLOW_Kobo 

➜GPLAY: https://smarturl.it/FTLOW_GPlay 

➜STANDARD PAPERBACK: https://smarturl.it/FTLOW_Pb 

➜SPECIAL EDITION PAPERBACK: https://lnk.to/FTLOWsp  

➜HARDBACK: https://lnk.to/FTLOW_Hb 

Audio, narrated by Aiden Snow and Meg Sylvan
➜https://melissafoster.com/RR_audio 

A TASTE OF WHISKEY (Book Four) – Now Available (My Review HERE)

BUY DIRECT FROM MELISSA AND SAVE➜ https://shop.melissafoster.com/collections/a-taste-of-whiskey-collection 
*Special edition ebook EXCLUSIVELY available in my shop 

➜KINDLE: https://lnk.to/ATOW_Kindle

➜APPLE: https://lnk.to/ATOW_Apple

➜NOOK: https://lnk.to/ATOW_Nook

➜KOBO: https://lnk.to/ATOW_Kobo

➜GPLAY: https://lnk.to/ATOW_GPlay

➜STANDARD & SPECIAL EDITION PAPERBACK: https://melissafoster.com/ATOW 

➜HARDBACK: https://lnk.to/ATOW_Hb 

Audio, narrated by Aiden Snow and Savannah Peachwood 
➜https://melissafoster.com/books/a-taste-of-whiskey-audio/

~

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Review – Gross Misconduct

28 Monday Apr 2025

Posted by romanticreadsandsuch in Book Review

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A.J. Truman, Book Review, Gross Misconduct, The Combacks series

Gross Misconduct

The Comebacks, Book One

by A.J. Truman

Blurb:

As a high school hockey star, I was on track for greatness. Until an opponent attacked me on the ice, leaving me half blind.

For the past twenty-seven years, I’ve avoided hockey and its painful memories. But when my old teammates get back together to play in a local recreational league, I realize it could be a chance to rewrite history. The only person standing in my way is Jack Gross.

Hockey isn’t complete without a rivalry, and ours comes courtesy of the Blades: they’re younger, faster, and fronted by Jack, a former professional hockey player who hates my guts after a rooftop hookup gone wrong.

His cockiness and penchant for pranks make me hate him right back. But Jack has a special way of getting under my skin that makes me want to get into his pants. And well, I only have so much willpower.

As our teams get closer to a showdown on the ice, Jack begins shedding his armor of confidence. Despite getting to live the life I dreamed of, maybe Jack is as messed up as me.

The championship game could redeem the past for us both. But there can only be one winner. Will victory taste as sweet if it costs me Jack?

Gross Misconduct is a rivals to lovers, age gap, single dad, gay romance with no cheating and an HEA. It is book 1 in The Comebacks, a series about a friend group of single dads who were hockey all-stars in high school and looking to recapture the magic in their forties. Whether they win or lose, there’s always a post-game beer.

*****

Review:

Griffin had his dreams for the future taken from him at 18, but he’s managed to create a good life for himself. A job that he enjoys and 2 beautiful kids. And now he’s starting a new stage of his life, divorced and newly out as a gay man in his 40s. Then he meets Jack … and things got drastically wrong.

Jack is struggling post NHL life. He’s broke with no idea what he wants to do with his life and a difficult relationship with his dad. And finds himself battling on and off the ice with Griffin.

This was my first book by Truman and I enjoyed the heck out of it. It’s a fast read, funny and steamy and heartfelt. It has a sweet mix of found family and romance, with a bit of angst to keep things hopping. I’ll definitely be looking for another read from him.

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Review – Wilder Heart

26 Saturday Apr 2025

Posted by romanticreadsandsuch in Book Review

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Blackwood Ranch series, Book Review, KT Yarrow, Wilder Heart

Wilder Heart

A Blackwood Ranch Novel

by KT Yarrow

Blurb:

Even the wildest hearts need a place to call home.

Wilder

Freshly released from prison, Wilder goes back to the one place he never thought he’d find home. But Blackwood Ranch is a home in which he doesn’t feel welcome. The ranch, and his brother, thrived in his absence, and Wilder wonders whether he belongs there at all anymore. How does a man find his place in a world that won’t forgive him for his past?

Cash

Cash has called Blackwood Ranch home for seven years, but he’s never truly had a place of his own. He doesn’t realize he’s missing anything until he meets Wilder. He wants to show Wilder that there’s more to life than survival, but getting past the man’s defenses will be a lesson in patience for the both of them. 

*****

Review:

Wilder has been thru so much and I wanted to just yell at all of the townspeople that let their childhood reach the state it did. (And there was a moment toward the end that I just wanted to punch one particular selfish old man.)

My heart went out to both of the brothers, living with the consequences of that night and struggling to figure out how to move forward. (I really wish we’d gotten a little more of Lain’s POV. It made me a little angry that things went as far for as long as they did.)

Cash is patient and supportive and good for Wilder. He shows him the love and understanding that he so desperately needs, setting him up for a chance at a good future if he’s willing to trust.

Cash & Wilder’s path to a HEA is not an easy one. There are a lot of 2 steps forward and 1 step back moments for them as they try to work thru Wilder’s adjustment to being out of prison. And having to face his past and his brother again. It’s an emotional story but a satisfying one and I just loved it – every angsty, slow burn, gut punch page.

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Review – Worthy

25 Friday Apr 2025

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Adrenalin series, Book Review, Michele Lenard, Worthy

Worthy

Adrenalin #1

by Michele Lenard

Blurb:

Okay, I might have a reputation as a playboy, but I swear that’s not my fault.

Cade – When your small tourist town is lacking in single people, your only option for company is the temporary kind. And if given the choice between sleeping alone or sleeping around, well, can you blame me for choosing the latter?

If you think about it, I’m a victim of circumstance. A product of my environment. And that suits me just fine. Or it did, until a sexy stranger knocked me over, literally.

The newcomer is an angel to my devil. The type A to my slacker, working on a PhD thesis while I do everything in my power to delay taking over the family business. We should be totally incompatible. Yet somehow, I feel more at ease with this outsider than people I’ve known my whole life.

For the first time in—ever—I don’t want to be just a fling, but how do I win over a relationship prone genius when I’m a notorious flirt? That’s not even the worst part. Did I mention I’m crushing on a guy, and until I met him, I considered myself straight?

This opposites attract MM romance features a small-town bad boy, the studious boy next door, townspeople who love an excuse to wear a costume, and a not safe for work drinking game.

*****

Review:

Worthy is low angst, steamy, and sweet. These two together are delightful and I loved being with them as they fell in love over the course of a summer. It just grabbed me with its mix of feels and flirty fun.

My only complaint is that I’m not sure why Cade is so hard on himself. Sure, he’s slept around but he’s also young and only with those more than willing. He’s also got a lot to offer others – he’s caring, hard working, playful, and supportive of his friends & community. And Maddox sees that as well. With his help, maybe Cade will too.

It’s a slow burn romance so it won’t be for everyone. But those who do pick it up will get emotion, growth, and a LOT of heat, mixed with a good dose of small town charm, humor, and fun. I’ve enjoyed everything I’ve read from Lenard so far and I’m adding her to my list of go to authors.

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Review – Sawyer

25 Friday Apr 2025

Posted by romanticreadsandsuch in Blog Tour, Book Review

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Book Review, Jessica Peterson, Lucky River Ranch series, Sawyer

Dirty dancing leads to a chance at forever in this sizzling single parent, found family, small town romance by Jessica Peterson.

Sawyer

A Lucky River Ranch Novel

by Jessica Peterson

Blurb:

As a recently divorced single mom, I have zero interest in flirting with guys while on a rare girls’ weekend away with my sisters. I just want to have fun, celebrate my new job, and listen to live music at a honky tonk.

But when I literally stumble into the most gorgeous guy ever on the dance floor, those plans go up in smoke. Growing up on the barrel racing circuit, I’m not immune to the charms of a cowboy. But this particular one is hot as hell: Sawyer’s got a mustache, some sexy tattoos, and a very filthy mouth.

Needless to say, we end up naked in his swanky hotel room. It’s the best sex of my life. And the way Sawyer treats me like a queen? Let’s just say a girl could get addicted to that kind of adoration. 

Good thing he’ll always be just a one night stand I can look back on with a smile. I’m rebuilding our life from scratch, and I need to focus on my three-year-old daughter and the dream job I just landed.

Imagine my surprise, then, when I move to Hartsville and run into a tattooed cowboy with an endearing daughter of his own. Now Sawyer wants more than the occasional playdates between our girls. But the closer we become, the more determined this sexy single dad is to keep me forever. 

As much as I am falling for Sawyer, I’m terrified. I’ve been down this road before with my ex, and I wonder if I can trust this cowboy. Will he rope the moon for me? Or is my heart destined to be trampled all over again?

Add to Goodreads: https://bit.ly/3XbADin

Download today or read for FREE with Kindle Unlimited

Amazon: https://bit.ly/3CEd62e

Amazon Worldwide: https://mybook.to/SawyerJP

*****

Review:

Oh my, the Rivers boy … *sigh* I love these dirty talking, big hearted, noble cowboys. Sawyer is trying so hard to be a good dad, good brother, and good cowboy. He’s struggling with feeling like he’s not enough and should be able to do more. But meeting Ava helps take some of that stress away for a little while.

I liked Ava and I liked her with Sawyer but I am not sure I quite understand why she hangs on to her concern about getting involved with him as long as she did. I get that her previous relationship was awful and toxic and abusive but … surely she understands that not every relationship is like that? Maybe it is because they got together so young that it imprinted those feelings about herself.

Their night together at the beginning was steamy, fun, and a chance for them to let go & remember themselves as people not just parents. And it is a feeling that they are able to keep going once they meet again later. They work well together, as adults and as parents, and I enjoyed their relationship a lot.

There’s not a lot of drama in this one. Mostly it’s whether Ava can let go of her issues with relationships to give Sawyer a real chance. He does have a few hang ups of his own, especially with stretching himself too thin. Overall, it’s about them creating an amazing little family together and learning to trust in others – to trust they truly accept them and are willing to bet there when needed. And I enjoy seeing them create connections and relationships with each other & those around them

Full of adorable kids, sassy women, and sexy cowboys, Sawyer is a cute (and hot) addition to the Lucky River Ranch series. Sawyer is such a good man and Ava is the perfect person to help him remember to enjoy life and I’m here for it. And I’m also here for what comes next thanks to that little tease at the end!

*****

Author Info:

Jessica Peterson writes romance with heat, humor, and heart. Heroes with hot accents are her specialty. When she’s not writing, she can be found bellying up to a bar in the south’s best restaurants with her husband Ben, reading books with her adorable daughter Gracie, or snuggling up with her 70-pound lap dog, Martha.

A Carolina girl at heart, she fantasizes about splitting her time between Charleston and Asheville, but currently lives in Charlotte, NC.

Connect with Jessica

Website: https://www.jessicapeterson.com/

Goodreads: http://bit.ly/JessicaPetersonGR

Amazon: https://amzn.to/2KoS0sb

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jessicapetersonauthor/

Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/PetersonsPupils/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jessicapauthor/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/JessicaPAuthor

Bookbub: https://www.bookbub.com/authors/jessica-peterson

~

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Review – Mr. Charming

22 Tuesday Apr 2025

Posted by romanticreadsandsuch in Blog Tour, Book Review

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Book Review, Mr. Charming, Piper Rayne, The Nest series

Mr. Charming

The Nest #4

by Piper Rayne

Blurb:

Three years ago, I swore to myself we were done.

Since then, Tweetie Sorenson has embraced the professional hockey player bachelor lifestyle—his social media is a highlight reel of clubs, friends, and a never-ending stream of different women.

It’s hard to believe he’s the same man who stole my heart the very night we met. With him, everything felt wild, spontaneous, and absolutely perfect. I thought he was my forever.

Then, he broke my heart. Or maybe we broke each other’s. Either way, it was over.

I’ve moved on—new city, dream job—until my boss throws me back into Tweetie’s world. I’m sent to Chicago to manage the Falcons’ social media, which means working alongside the one man I never truly let go of. FML.

Goodreads: https://bit.ly/3XjDmq8

Download today on Amazon, Apple Books, Audible, Barnes & Noble, Google Play, and Kobo!

https://books2read.com/MR-C

Audio Full Cast Narration by: Troy Duran, Christine Lakin, Sean Masters, Connor Crais, JF Harding, Teddy Hamilton, and CJ Bloom

*****

Review:

I love this series (and pretty much everything that Piper Rayne gives me). I’ve been curious about Tweetie as we’ve worked thru the other stories … and I’m so sad that this one was my least favorite. The last half or so was great, exactly what I’d expect.

But early on, especially the journal entries, things were occasionally awkward. Part of it may be the bouncing back and forth in time. Plus I think maybe we needed a good reminder that these two were young when they first got together, with a lot of baggage from their childhoods. Although even in the present they make some choices that seemed a little … juvenile.

Buuuut, saying that, I loved that Tweetie finally got his girl and Tedi is a good match for him. I felt for him every step of the way, how he has to work with his abandonment issues and need to be wanted. The glimpses of the deeper guy that we’ve gotten over the other stories make so much sense.

As with all of the others, it’s the friendships between the guys and now their partners that elevate these stories. They love big and bold and with a lot of heart. I love seeing them support each other, tease but at the same time truly care about each other. And Tweetie & Tedi need all they can get.

There’s a lot of pain and yearning and hurt and want all wrapped up with these two and having to spend time together means that it doesn’t take long for all of that to bubble over. My heart went out to both of them as they struggle with those feelings and have to decide if they can trust in themselves & each other.

We get a look at baseball players Decker & Easton throughout this story and I’m looking forward to seeing what happens when the guys move into the condos above Peepers. Looks like Ruby may have her hands full 🙂

*****

Author Info:

Piper Rayne is a USA Today Bestselling Author duo who write “heartwarming humor with a side of sizzle” about families, whether that be blood or found. They both have e-readers full of one-clickable books, they’re married to husbands who drive them to drink, and they’re both chauffeurs to their kids. Most of all, they love hot heroes and quirky heroines who make them laugh, and they hope you do, too!

Connect with Piper Rayne

Website: www.PiperRayne.com

Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/15810938.Piper_Rayne

Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Piper-Rayne/e/B01ND0R15R

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/PiperRayne/

Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/PiperRaynesUnicorns

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/authorpiperrayne/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/PiperRayneRocks

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@authorpiperrayne

Bookbub: https://www.bookbub.com/authors/piper-rayne

Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/authorpiperrayne/_created/

Other: https://www.etsy.com/shop/PiperRayne?ref=shop_sugg

Threads: https://www.threads.net/@authorpiperrayne

~


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Review – Wicked Love

10 Thursday Apr 2025

Posted by romanticreadsandsuch in Blog Tour, Book Review

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Book Review, The Single Dad Playbook Series, Wicked Love, Willow Aster

A sexy, small town, grumpy sunshine, single dad, sports romance from USA Today Bestselling Author Willow Aster

Wicked Love

The Single Dad Playbook Series

by Willow Aster

Blurb:

I fell in love with his little girl first.

From the moment nine-year-old Becca Fox and I hugged, it was like we’d known each other forever. Precocious, sweet, and kind, I just knew this little girl was exceptional. Her dad, though? Not so much.

Bowie Fox checks every box in the looks department—rugged, intense, and the kind of man who makes you forget how to breathe—but his personality? About as warm as a snowstorm.

That is, until we’re seated together at his best friend’s wedding, and then…we dance.

For hours.

Beneath that gruff and hard exterior, I catch glimpses of a man who wants to let loose and enjoy life.

After the wedding, when a hotel mixup leaves me without a room and stranded in Landmark Mountain, Bowie invites me to stay in his room. In his bed.

It’s innocent at first. Until it’s not. A sizzling one-night stand for the books. Then I wake up alone and when I see him at breakfast, he is as distant as ever.

Bowie lets me know his life revolves around Becca, his teammates, and football. He makes it perfectly clear that there is no room for anyone else—especially the bubbly coach of his daughter.

As much as our paths keep crossing, I know the broody linebacker isn’t ever planning on falling for me, but when I find out I am pregnant—I wonder, Can he fall for us?

Wicked Love is book four in The Single Dad Playbook series. Each book can be read as a standalone.

Add to Goodreads: https://bit.ly/4aHHxkU

Download today or read for FREE with Kindle Unlimited

https://geni.us/Wickedlove

Audio: https://geni.us/WickedLoveAudio 
Narrated by: JF Harding and Samantha Brentmoor with special guest Lily D. Moore

*****

Review:

Bowie really has moments of being a not so nice person but his love for his daughter and for his friends is definitely a redeeming quality. And I really think it helps getting both character’s POV. It helped us see where Bowie was coming from, because otherwise his hot/cold routine could have been a bit much.

I loved Poppy. She’s so upbeat, giving, and sweet. Her love for others, especially the kids she works with, just about pours out of her. I kinda wish that Bowie had given her a chance earlier but it’s kinda understandable with his history. I do wish that he’d had a bit more of a chance to explore that, get some resolution with his father and his ex.

Bowie’s daughter, Becca, is such a bright spot as well. With her enthusiasm and endless love, it’s not a surprise that she connects so well with Poppy. Once Bowie gets out of his own way, they form such a wonderful little family.

And as with the previous books the guys, and now their wives, are there to support them every step of the way. It’s definitely one of my favorite things about this series. We’ve got one more “single dad” to go and I’m all in to find out what is in store for our Penn.

*****

Author Info:

Willow Aster is a USA Today Bestselling author and lover of anything book-related. She lives in St. Paul, MN with her husband, kids, rescue dog, and grandcat.

Connect with Willow

Website: www.willowaster.com

Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/6863360.Willow_Aster

Amazon: https://bit.ly/WillowAster

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/willowasterauthor/

Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/870978829643191/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/willowaster/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/WillowAster

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@willowaster1

Bookbub: https://www.bookbub.com/authors/willow-aster

Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/WillowAster/_created/

~

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