Showing posts with label 5 stars. Show all posts
Showing posts with label 5 stars. Show all posts

Monday, March 11, 2024

Review: Rocky Road by Becky Wade



My rating: 5 stars / It was amazing



Synopsis

FBI Agent Jude Camden handles every aspect of his job with by-the-book professionalism. There's no reason why his latest assignment—which calls for him to pose as the boyfriend of perfumer Gemma Clare—should be any different.

Except Gemma is different. She's creative, bold, and feisty. And as soon as she meets Jude, she wants to loosen him up, wrinkle his perfect shirts, and test every ounce of his towering self-control.

The FBI has an iron-clad rule against romances between those working together on operations. Jude's never met a rule he didn't respect. But adhering to this one is going to be tough because, as time goes by, he finds Gemma more and more irresistible.

Buckle up! It's going to be a rocky road.


My Review

We meet Jude in the previous book, but the real reason to read this series in order is to understand the family scandal and complicated dynamics that have resulted. Most of Rocky Road is from Jude and Gemma's perspective, but we also have the point of view of Jude's mother, the origin of the scandal, and her attempts to reconcile with the sister she betrayed. Gemma and Jude have an awesome meet-cute, and their chemistry just grows from there, despite Jude's determination to remain aloof. The romantic tension is so strong! I just loved their interactions and genuine personalities. The investigation of Gemma's cousin brings an element of suspense, and the subplot of Gemma's hunt for answers to her grandmother's secret past was heartwarming. The setting of Maine is dreamy, and makes me want to return there to explore more! We're also introduced to Max, the notorious half brother, and I'm looking forward to his story in the next book!

Disclosure statement: A complimentary copy of this book was provided from a tour group, publisher, publicist, or author, including NetGalley, OR was borrowed from the library, including OverDrive, OR borrowed from Kindle Unlimited, OR purchased. A review was not required and all views and opinions expressed are unbiased and my own.

Don't miss the first book in the Sons of Scandal series . . .





Sunday, March 10, 2024

Review: Memory Lane by Becky Wade



My rating: 5 stars / It was amazing



Synopsis

After surviving a trauma several years back, Remy Reed relocated to a cottage on one of Maine’s most remote islands. She’s arranged her life just the way she wants it, spending her time working on her wood sculptures and soaking in the beauty of nature. It’s quiet and solitary—until the day she spots something bobbing in the ocean.

Her binoculars reveal the “something” to be a man, and he’s struggling to keep his head above water. She races out to save him and brings him into her home. He’s injured, which doesn’t detract from his handsomeness nor make him any easier to bear. He acts like a duke who’s misplaced his dukedom . . . expensive tastes, lazy charm, bossy ideas.

Remy would love nothing more than to return him to his people, but he has no recollection of his life prior to the moment she rescued him. Though she’s not interested in relationships other than the safe ones she’s already established, she begins to realize that he’s coming to depend on her.

Who is he? What happened that landed him in the Atlantic Ocean? And why is she drawn to him more and more as time goes by?

There’s no way to discover those answers except to walk beside him down memory lane.

Travel to the rocky coast of Maine for "opposites attract" banter, witty humor, a fascinating mystery, and destiny-changing love. This sweet contemporary romance kicks off Becky Wade's new Sons of Scandal series!

*Note: For a list of sensitive topics in Becky's novels, visit BeckyWade.com and click the link you'll find at the top of the "My Books" page.


My Review

Remy is a reclusive artist who uses her isolation to exert extreme control over her life as well as experience the joy of nature. Rescuing "Jonah" from the ocean disrupts her routines, but as she acclimates to his company, she realizes that she may be ready to move forward and cope with her trauma in different ways. Jonah is on a path of self-discovery with his amnesia, finding out who he was, and making choices for who he will be. There is a mystery that haunts him as he learns more about his life before the accident, and Remy is determined to help him find the closure he needs. I loved their dynamic- they are complete opposites- but they appreciate the contrasts between them and recognize the important values they have in common. This author is skilled at making her characters come to life with unique details and mannerisms, and I was drawn into the complex story quickly. The pace was steady as circumstances changed, twisted, and disrupted Remy's careful life and her new relationship propelled her forward to explore healing and love. I'm excited for more stories from the "sons of scandal!"

Disclosure statement: A complimentary copy of this book was provided from a tour group, publisher, publicist, or author, including NetGalley, OR was borrowed from the library, including OverDrive, OR borrowed from Kindle Unlimited, OR purchased. A review was not required and all views and opinions expressed are unbiased and my own.

Don't miss the next book in the Sons of Scandal series . . .






Monday, March 4, 2024

Review: Women in Science Who Changed the World by Heidi Poelman, illustrated by Angie Alape


My rating: 5 stars / It was amazing



Synopsis

From the innovations of Janaki Ammal to the careful observations of Jane Goodall, Women in Science Who Changed the World is a young child’s first introduction to the diverse, extraordinary women who used their brilliant minds to change the world of science forever. Simple text and adorable illustrations tell the contributions of eight Maria Sibylla Merian, Wang Zhenyi, Mary Anning, Marie Curie, Janaki Ammal, Katherine Johnson, Jane C. Wright, and Jane Goodall.  A quote from each scientist is included on each spread along with colorful, delightful artwork.
 
 
 
 
My Review

I loved this awesome board book! It spotlights women who were a huge influence in the science world. Some names I recognized like Marie Curie, Jane Goodall, and Katherine Johnson (thanks to the movie Hidden Figures), but others I was excited to learn about as well. They explored and made advances in the fields of entomology, astronomy, paleontology, botany, oncology, mathematics, conservation, physics, chemistry, and primatology. I appreciated the wide variety of fields covered, and the diversity of the many parts of the world and eras they came from. The book is perfect for a variety of ages- the introductory words are simple enough for very young learners, and the paragraphs explaining their work will be understood by older children. The quotes are inspirational, and there is a sense of celebration and encouragement for children to find joy in the world's mysteries and explore and problem solve as these women did.

Disclosure statement: A complimentary copy of this book was provided from a tour group, publisher, publicist, or author, including NetGalley, OR was borrowed from the library, including OverDrive, OR borrowed from Kindle Unlimited, OR purchased. A review was not required and all views and opinions expressed are unbiased and my own.



Check out more books in the Little Heroes / Courageous People series . . .












Monday, February 26, 2024

Review: A Heart Sufficient by Nichole Van



My rating: 5 stars / It was amazing

 

Synopsis

Tristan Gilbert, the autocratic Duke of Kendall, has a clear plan for his future—destroy his father’s memory, obliterate his enemies, and become Prime Minister. Fortunately, he can accomplish all three goals by convincing Parliament to prosecute the Scottish Earl of Hadley. Once Hadley is vanquished, surely the Queen will recognize Kendall’s readiness for the role of Prime Minister.

But in order to succeed, Kendall must first conquer his own unnerving attraction to Hadley’s hoyden of a daughter—Lady Isolde Langston. No matter his efforts, Lady Isolde lingers in his blood, a sort of love-potion madness Kendall struggles to suppress.

Lady Isolde Langston knows impulsivity will be her downfall. Case in point, her heedless actions triggered the Duke of Kendall’s current vendetta against her father. Isolde needs to right the wrongs she caused and force the duke to surrender before Hadley ends up jailed. To do this, she decides to torment Kendall at every turn—at balls and musicales and even in his own library. The arrogant Sassenach will rue the day he crossed her.

But when an unfortunate accident fractures both their lives, Kendall and Isolde unexpectedly face a future neither of them wished. Adrift, they are forced to call a truce. As their romance deepens, can Kendall change his heart sufficiently and Isolde forgive past hurts in order to form a love all their own?

My Review

Oh my heart! Tristan is quite the villain in the previous book, but through his sister's eyes we see how his past changed him and the boy deep inside. In this book Allie continues her assault to break down his walls, and I love the twin sibling bond that is returning to their relationship. It is his fascination-obsession-weakness for Isolde however that is his ultimate downfall and subsequent redemption. They are both so full of passion, but his is repressed and restrained to guard against her antagonism. They are so good at getting under each other's skin! The author takes the enemies-to-lovers trope to new depths as their first impressions and later interactions rise and dip on a rollercoaster of humor and angst. The captivating experiences they share are transformative, and Tristan's surrender to emotion, repentance, forgiveness, love, acceptance, and reconciliation is powerful and brought tears to my eyes. An absolutely epic conclusion to the series! I would recommend reading the whole series in order for maximum understanding of each character's backstory, and every book earned five-stars from me- don't miss any of them!

Disclosure statement: A complimentary copy of this book was provided from a tour group, publisher, publicist, or author, including NetGalley, OR was borrowed from the library, including OverDrive, OR borrowed from Kindle Unlimited, OR purchased. A review was not required and all views and opinions expressed are unbiased and my own.

Don't miss the previous books in The Penn-Leiths of Thistle Muir series . . .

Thursday, February 15, 2024

Book Tour & Review: Chasing the Horizon by Mary Connealy



My rating: 5 stars / It was amazing



Synopsis

Her only chance at freedom waits across the horizon

Upon uncovering her tyrannical father's malevolent plot to commit her to an asylum, Beth Rutledge fabricates a plan of her own. She will rescue her mother, who had already been sent to the asylum, and escape together on a wagon train heading west. Posing as sisters, Beth and her mother travel with the pioneers in hopes of making it to Idaho before the others start asking too many questions.

Wagon-train scout Jake Holt senses that the mysterious women in his caravan are running from something. When rumors begin to spread of Pinkerton agents searching relentlessly for wanted criminals who match the description of those on his wagon train, including Beth, she begins to open up to him, and he learns something more sinister is at hand. Can they risk trusting each other with their lives--and their hearts--when danger threatens their every step?

My Review

There's something about this story that really resonated with me. I feel like the author was intentional and thoughtful with the themes and difficulties of the characters and the era. The railroads have made travel to the West more accessible and swift, and the wagon trains are tapering off. It provides Beth and her mother an opportunity to hide in plain sight as her father assumes they would escape via rail travel. I enjoyed the people they meet and become close to on their journey, and loved the way Oscar, a former employee, showed his loyalty and decency by aiding Beth in her plans and supporting them on the trail. Jake and Beth have great chemistry, and their relationship and romance developed slowly and naturally as they work together through all the obstacles along the way. There is anticipation of an impending altercation as Beth's father closes in and we have some passages from his villainous perspective. Overall, the pace is steady and I appreciated the character growth as well as the details of the journey. I look forward to continuing the story with the next book, following Sebastian, a mysterious inventor they rescued and brought on the trail, and Kat, who escaped the asylum with Beth's mother.

Disclosure statement: A complimentary copy of this book was provided from a tour group, publisher, publicist, or author, including NetGalley, OR was borrowed from the library, including OverDrive, OR borrowed from Kindle Unlimited, OR purchased. A review was not required and all views and opinions expressed are unbiased and my own.

Check out the next book in A Western Light series . . .


About the Author

Mary Connealy writes romantic comedies with cowboys. She is independently publishing a contemporary romantic suspense series called Garrison’s Law, book one is Loving the Texas Lawman. Her new historical series, High Sierra Sweethearts begins with The Accidental Guardian. She is also the author of these series: Kincaid Brides, Trouble in Texas, Wild at Heart, Cimarron Legacy, Lassoed in Texas, Montana Marriages, and Sophie's daughters, and has many other books.

She is a two-time Carol Award winner and has been a finalist for the Rita and Christy Awards. She’s a lifelong Nebraskan and lives with her very own romantic cowboy hero. She’s got four grown daughters and four spectacular grandchildren.



PRAISE FOR CHASING THE HORIZON

"Mary Connealy’s Inspirational Western Romances have long been on my radar to try, but the new Western Lights series opener, Chasing the Horizon, was my first opportunity. Imagine my chagrin when I started reading and didn’t want to stop. Oh yes, dear friends, I’d waited too long to discover a gem of a writer."— Sophia Rose, The Reading Frenzy

5 STARS "What an incredible book! It kept me on the edge of my seat the entire time I read it.” — Camille Dayton, Fostering Literacy
 
5 STARS “Loved this story! I was intrigued right from the beginning.”— Melissa Goss, Christian Books and Coffee

Saturday, January 20, 2024

Review: The Ladies Rewrite the Rules Suzanne Allain



My rating: 5 stars / It was amazing



Synopsis

From the author of Mr. Malcolm's List comes a delightful romantic comedy set in Regency England about a widow who takes high society by storm.

Diana Boyle, a wealthy young widow, has no desire to ever marry again. Particularly not to someone who merely wants her for her fortune. 

So when she discovers that she’s listed in a directory of rich, single women she is furious, and rightly so. She confronts Maxwell Dean, the man who published the Bachelor’s Directory, and is horrified to find he is far more attractive than his actions have led her to expect. However, Diana is unmoved by Max’s explanation that he authored the list to assist younger sons like himself who cannot afford to marry unless it’s to a woman of means. 

She gathers the ladies in the directory together to inform them of its existence, so they may circumvent fortune hunters’ efforts to trick them into marriage. Though outraged, the women decide to embrace their unique position of power and reverse the usual gender roles by making the men dance to their tune. And together… the ladies rewrite the rules.


My Review

The title of this book filled me with anticipation, and the story did not disappoint! It was delightfully humorous, with vibrant characters and depth of emotion. I enjoyed the journey of Diana, Maxwell, and their friends as they navigate the rules of Society and how they redefined their roles and themselves.
 
According to society at the time, younger sons had few options for their future without lowering their societal class. One of those options was to marry a woman with a large dowry or independently wealthy, such as the widow of a rich man. Those who pursued this course were labelled "fortune hunters" and looked upon with suspicion. How was a woman to know that she was valued for more than her financial assets? That she would be treated as well after the marriage as during the courtship? Maxwell proved sincere in his desire to assist both the men and women in these circumstances, although some misused his directory, bringing the criticism, wrath, and retaliation of many of the women listed. I loved that these women met and bonded, even though there was an array of perspectives and opinions on courtship, marriage, and men. The women's actions to take control and turn the tables were fodder for the gossips, and they had a fine line to walk without falling over into disfavor or ruin. 
 
The story follows multiple characters who eventually pair off, but not before we see the layers peeled back and learn the motivations, nuances, and desires of those making up the ensemble cast. While there are a good number of ladies and gentlemen, a few are brought to the forefront as the focus, and the romance between each couple is sweet and genuine, filled with banter, misunderstandings, and reconciliations. Highly entertaining!

Disclosure statement: A complimentary copy of this book was provided from a tour group, publisher, publicist, or author, including NetGalley, OR was borrowed from the library, including OverDrive, OR borrowed from Kindle Unlimited, OR purchased. A review was not required and all views and opinions expressed are unbiased and my own.
 
 
About the Author

Suzanne Allain is a screenwriter who lived in New York and Beijing before returning to her hometown of Tallahassee, Florida, where she lives with her husband. Suzanne adapted her novel Mr. Malcolm’s List into a screenplay and it was made into a movie starring Freida Pinto, Theo James, Ṣọpẹ Dìrísù, and Zawe Ashton.

Website | X | Facebook | Instagram | Goodreads

 
PRAISE FOR THE LADIES REWRITE THE RULES

“Innovative…The novel’s true strength lies in the friendship between the bold heroines”— Publisher’s Weekly

“A fun, light-hearted Regency romp about changing society from the inside.”— Kirkus Reviews 
 
“Joyful, warm and witty, this is a delight of a book.”— All About Romance
 
 
 

Wednesday, January 17, 2024

Book Tour & Review: The Lily of Ludgate Hill by Mimi Matthews




My rating: 5 stars / It was amazing



Synopsis

Fortune favors the bold—but is a confirmed spinster daring enough to loosen the reins and accept a favor from the wicked gentleman who haunts her dreams?

Lady Anne Deveril doesn’t spook easily. A woman of lofty social standing known for her glacial beauty and starchy opinions, she’s the unofficial leader of her small group of equestriennes. Since her mother’s devastating plunge into mourning six years ago, Anne voluntarily renounced any fanciful notions of love and marriage. And yet, when fate puts Anne back into the entirely too enticing path of Mr. Felix Hartford, she’s tempted to run…right into his arms.

No one understands why Lady Anne withdrew into the shadows of society, Hart least of all. The youthful torch he once held for her has long since cooled. Or so he keeps telling himself. But now Anne needs a favor to help a friend. Hart will play along with her little ruse—on the condition that Anne attend a holiday house party at his grandfather’s country estate. No more mourning clothes. No more barriers. Only the two of them, unrequited feelings at last laid bare.

Finally free to gallop out on her own, Anne makes the tantalizing discovery that beneath the roguish exterior of her not-so-white knight is a man with hidden depths, scorching passions—and a tender heart.

My Review

I loved the dynamic between Anne and Hart! It's like a combo second chance romance/enemies to lovers story. There are a variety of complications that they are each dealing with in their own lives, and it's when they begin to help instead of hinder that their banked feelings flare back to life. Family loyalty is strong in both- Anne with placating her long-grieving eccentric mother, and Hart with secretly supporting his father's mistress and children through the stain of trade. Anne has her friends to turn to, but Hart has been shouldering his burdens on his own, until he impulsively confides in Anne. While their strong feelings for each other have always been there, there are past hurts and misunderstandings that need to be resolved and forgiven before they can move on to begin afresh in their romance. I was glued to the pages through their obstacles and adventures, easily connecting with their emotions. I'm so excited for Stella's story in the next book!

Disclosure statement: A complimentary copy of this book was provided from a tour group, publisher, publicist, or author, including NetGalley, OR was borrowed from the library, including OverDrive, OR borrowed from Kindle Unlimited, OR purchased. A review was not required and all views and opinions expressed are unbiased and my own.

Don't miss the previous books in the Belles of London series . . .
 

 
About the Author


USA Today bestselling author Mimi Matthews writes both historical nonfiction and award-winning proper Victorian romances. Her novels have received starred reviews in Publishers Weekly, Library Journal, Booklist, and Kirkus, and her articles have been featured on the Victorian Web, the Journal of Victorian Culture, and in syndication at BUST Magazine. In her other life, Mimi is an attorney. She resides in California with her family, which includes a retired Andalusian dressage horse, a Sheltie, and two Siamese cats.



VICTORIAN READING ROOM

Join Mimi at her Victorian Reading Room Facebook Group for exclusive access as she shares her love of writing, historical romance, Victorian fashion, brooding heroes, independent heroines, and of course, her beloved pets!


ADVANCE PRAISE

“It is truly a wonder how Matthews can consistently craft fresh romances featuring unique, multidimensional characters who face huge obstacles to their relationships. [A] lovely story of secrets and love lost and found.”— Booklist (starred review)

“Sparkling…Historical romance fans are sure to be moved.”— Publishers Weekly

“Matthews delivers another richly detailed and emotionally tender closed-door romance.”— Kirkus Reviews

“An engaging series installment offering a second chance at love to a spunky heroine and a hero with hidden depths.”— Library Journal

“No one writes Victorian romance like Mimi Matthews, and her Belles of London series just keeps getting better! "— Kate Quinn, New York Times bestselling author

“Mimi is truly a national treasure. All of her books are filled with such delicious chemistry and heart, and her writing is superb. This one is another winner. Highly recommend.”—Isabel Ibañez, #1 New York Times bestselling author of What the River Knows