Hawaiian Holiday by Michele Paige Holmes

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Synopsis:

Hailey Walsh has always loved Christmas, and this year the holiday was supposed to be the most magical of all, spent with her large family and her fiancé in preparation for their wedding just two days after. Then Gage broke their engagement. 

Now instead of playing in the snow with her nieces and nephews, Hailey's building a playground with children she's never met before, spending her Christmas with strangers in Hawaii, on a service program she hopes will lift her spirits and help her begin to pick up the broken pieces of her life and heart. 

Gage Stevens didn't want to spend Christmas in Hawaii any more than he wanted to break his engagement, but sometimes fate has a way of slamming a guy against a wall and forcing him to tough decisions- for the good of others, be that his ex-fiancé or his mom. And while he's certain that no ocean breeze or tropical wonderland can heal what's wrong, one glimpse at a familiar head of red hair and Gage realized fate may not be done with him yet.

Review:

Wow this book was very different than the other clean romance books I've read recently. This book was full of love, kindness, hope, trials, and tears. I loved that it took place in Hawaii... who doesn't dream of going to Hawaii and during the holidays definitely sounds like a dream. Hailey's life came crashing down so she headed to Hawaii to get her mind off what is going on. When she got there she was able to serve and help so many different people in many ways. This was a perfect Christmas story of giving of yourself and when you do that you can find happiness. This is a very well written book and I loved each of the characters and the way they were developed. This was a very sweet heartwarming story that left you feeling good and wanting to "light the world."

Stars: 5

Hope for Christmas by Rachelle J. Christensen

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Synopsis:

Anika Fletcher hates Christmas--its promises of good tidings and hope for the future are a tinseled as the ornaments on Kenworth's Hope Tree. Despite her feelings, Anika wants to maintain her daughter's faith in the magic of the season and gladly accepts a second job working with the handsome Carlos Rodriguez to restore Kenworth's old fashioned soda fountain. Carlos is no stranger to hard times and slowly shares his life of light and joy with Anika as they work together. Just as her fragile soul begins to feel hope again, an ill-timed act of charity changes everything. Anika isn't sure who she can trust or if hope is worth nurturing-- especially at Christmas when it's easy to enjoy a kiss and believe love can last longer than the season.

Review:

This is a sweet story of a hard working single mom who wants to give her daughter a magical Christmas but they are struggling to make ends meet. Anika works hard at her job and meets Carlos who is a kind man who seems to be around when she needs him but she doesn't trust anyone. Carlos is a gentleman and I love how he treats Anika and her daughter. I found myself hoping Anika would see his kind heart. It has quite the ending and you hope that it will all work out.This was a well written cute story that puts you in the holiday spirit. This is a perfect Christmas story about faith, family, hard work, love, and of course Hope!

Stars: 4.5

Christmas with the Recluse by Victorine E. Lieske

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Synopsis:

When Charley gets sent by her father to appraise a mansion full of antiques, she gets a surprise when she arrives and the owner is cold and mean, and doesn't want anything to do with Christmas. And even worse? It's not really an appraisal job at all. He just wants her to clean out his mountain of junk from his garage. But Charley makes it her goal to show him that Christmas is a special time of year. And as time goes on, she sees his frozen heart start to thaw.
Alexander has been dealing with the guilt from his wife's death for two long years. It's time to move past, so he hires someone to help rid his garage of his wife's memories. But when she arrives, she's not at all what he was expecting. And even though she's a bit crazy, she helps him find his Christmas spirit once again.

Review:

I LOVED this fun, sweet and of course clean Christmas book! I lost sleep over reading this book... I could not put it down and read it way in to the wee hours of the night. I just wanted to know what was going to happen. I knew I loved Charley's character when she had silly holiday socks on... I LOVE holiday socks and have so many of them and wear them all year round! Charley was quirky and young but a hard worker especially when it was not what she thought she would be doing. Alexander was a grump who needed a little Charley quirkiness and Christmas magic in his life... he just didn't know it until she arrived. I love how she was young and innocent and just did and said what she thought instead of worrying about much. The connection that forms and the sparks that fly with some steamy kisses was a bonus.  I loved all the characters, the storyline and the details throughout the book. It was a heart warming romance and I found myself laughing out loud a time or two.

Stars: 5

Until We Kissed by Heather B. Moore

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Synopsis:

Pine Valley librarian Livvy Harmon has big dreams, which include marrying Dr. Slade McKinney. Trouble is he's only kissed her once in their four months of dating, and it wasn't all that great. But Livvy isn't ready to give up yet on hooking such an amazing man, even though Slade seems to have time for everyone but her.
When Livvy keeps running into writer Mason Rowe, who seems to be camping out in her library to finish his book under strict orders from his agent, Livvy at first keeps him at arm's length. But the more their friendship grows, the more she finds that her dream relationship with her doctor boyfriend isn't so dreamy after all.

Review:

Such a cute book! Livvy's big dream has always been to marry a doctor and she currently is dating one but as I continued reading I disliked him more and more. Ewe! She is always on the back burner and Livvy is a cute librarian who has a lot to give and she deserves someone who wants to spend time with her and thinks the world of her. Mason Rowe is a famous author who hasn't written in awhile so he escapes to Pine Valley to write and meets the cute librarian and her weird boyfriend. I love how Mason stuck up for Livvy and helped her. She realizes with his actions that she deserves so much more and maybe she could forget about her dream and create a new one. I love their friendship that forms. Their chemistry was undeniable and the steamy kisses in the library were just melting the pages with the sparks that were flying. I loved this idea of a book loving librarian falling in love with a famous author. Of course we all know I love the town of Pine Valley and this series is just so cute. I loved experiencing Pine Valley in winter it was so magical.

Stars: 5

The Midnight Groom by Taylor Hart

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Synopsis:

How much would you bet on true love this Christmas season?
After the worst year of his life, Cameron Cruz, owner of the Denver Storm, agrees to a family Christmas cruise with his twin sister and her family. Sure maybe part of the reason he agreed to go was because it got him out of court mandated therapy for a week. Still he was trying to focus on relaxing. He was trying to focus on having fun. He was trying not to look at the reports that came everyday from the private investigator's he'd been hiring and firing for the past year to bring justice to the man who killed his wife.
Isabel Kind was only on this Christmas cruise for one reason-to heal. After tragically losing her husband and son five years ago, she'd been stuck. And she and her therapist thought doing the list of excursions they'd planned to do as a family-might help her move on. When she sprains her ankle and Cameron Cruz offers to help, she finds herself accepting.
After reluctantly getting piggy backed by the amazingly strong and handsome man, swimming with the sting rays, and zip lining through the Honduran jungles, she is more and more mystified by this troubled man. Even more mystified that he's not only helping her physically but he's also trying to help her emotionally-even if, as he says, he can't heal himself.
When bad news comes to light and Cameron has to face the past, they are left with a choice-walk away or let the power of grace make them whole.

Review:

This book draws you in from the very beginning. Man that Prologue is a tear jerker you're so happy but then so sad leaving you very intrigued for the rest of the book. This was a captivating book about tragedy, grief, forgiveness and healing. Cameron's sister talks him in to going on a cruise for Christmas. A very reluctant Cameron comes along even though he has too much to do back home. Little did he know it would be the perfect thing to help with the beginning of his forgiveness and healing. I love the bond of friendship that forms between Isabel and Cameron and that they are their for each other understanding a little of what each other are dealing with. I like their teasing and deep caring for each other. This was a great book that leaves you with a happy heart. I love that this is a great representation that there can be hope and love through hard times and that you don't have to go through trials alone. I wish there was more Christmas to it because I love me some Christmas but I definitely enjoyed it!

Stars: 5

The Christmas Girlfriend by Taylor Hart

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Synopsis:

The handsome and kind, Mike Hamilton, doesn't want to go back to his hometown, Snow Valley, to attend his sister's wedding and spend Christmas, especially since he didn't tell anyone he got dumped two weeks ago. So when he discovers a girl standing on a roof praying, running to the top to join her doesn't feel that desperate. Too bad they both fall and she accuses him of trying to kill her.
Aspiring singer and songwriter, Zoey Harper, doesn't know who this guy is-- but she doesn't need his help. When he offers to pay her to be his FAKE girlfriend to get him out of a little situation, she immediately says no. But when she finds herself without a job, without a car, and with no money to go try out for The Voice and fulfill a life-long dream, she agrees! But ONLY kissing. And only pecks on the cheek!
She doesn't know how she finds herself making out with him to keep his ex girlfriend at bay, then cannon balling into the hot springs on his property and spilling all of her secrets. And who would have guessed that her favorite person would be his grumpy grandpa? Her lonely heart doesn't know when things started to change between she and Mike-- when he ran up on the roof to save her or when she finds herself singing a song for him in front of his whole family.
When their lies fall apart, they are left with a choice--forget the past five days or get the Christmas miracle that could change their lives forever.

Review:

Going back to Snow Valley is always a treat especially at Christmas time! I love all the fun things the town does during Christmas time and gets you right into the spirit of the holidays. Mike & Zoey meet in very odd circumstances and I'm so glad Mike found her even though she wanted nothing to do with him. Zoey is very feisty and as the story goes on oh man you just feel for this poor girl and her rough challenges in her life. This may have started as a paid gig for Zoey so she can audition for The Voice but little did she know it was going to open her eyes to something special. I loved that Zoey got to experience a Snow Valley Christmas and feel the love of a family. Mike needed Zoey more than he ever knew and she helped guide his life back to where it belonged. I loved their connection and of course their steamy kisses...oo la la. I loved all the characters and the way they were written and described. I loved this sweet Christmas romance!

Stars: 5


 

Coming Home to Love by Rachelle J. Chistensen

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Synopsis:

When Laney Richins left Echo Ridge, New York eight years ago, she vowed she'd never return, but life had other plans. Those plans included her cute little boy and a divorce, so Laney moved back home and started over. Working in the flower shop seems like the perfect plan until Billy Redford, the man she should have married shows up.
Billy Redford's heart was broken when his high school sweetheart turned her back on him and fled Echo Ridge for the big city lights. Running into Laney in Echo Ridge now brings up past feelings he thought were long gone. She's prettier than ever, still seems to read his mind, and despite his protests ends up on the building and decorating committee with him for the Homecoming dance. Billy knows how to build just about anything, but he isn't sure he knows how to mend a broken heart.

Review:

Yay for another Echo Ridge Romance. I have loved each of the stories that Echo Ridge is a part of. I love that little town and wish I could visit it some day ;) This is a great clean story about forgiveness and second chances. Billy lives and runs his own business in Echo Ridge when he runs in to the girl that got away. Laney has moved back after a divorce and has a child and Billy doesn't want to see her. They get put on the same homecoming committee for the High School which forces them to be around each other. Forgiveness is expressed and sparks fly. I loved the characters and the storyline. It was well written and I very much enjoyed it!

Stars: 4.5

Claire's Christmas Dance by Rachelle J. Christensen

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Synopsis:

The Fielding House Christmas Ball is for everyone, including servants. This Christmas Eve a lady's maid, Claire Walden, plans to attend for the first time, but when Mrs. Fielding's grandson shows up unexpectedly the dance may take a different turn. Edmund is a gentleman of the upper class, but with a questionable background. When he shows an interest in Claire, she doesn't want to risk her heart, but over time, Claire comes to know Edmund. As the Christmas Eve ball approaches, Claire wonders if love might be able to cross the lines of servants and high society. If she saves a dance for Edmund, will he steal her heart forever?

Review:

This was such a heart warming Christmas story about including and loving those around you. Claire has worked for Mrs. Fielding for years and Mrs. Fielding loves and treats her like family. A gentleman named Edmund comes to the house and treats Claire like she is the only person around. I love their connection that develops. I'm not usually a fan of historical or Victorian type books but this one drew me right in and I loved it. It is a very sweet wholesome read. It is a short novelette that was very well written and puts you in the holiday spirit.

Stars: 5

Caught Kissing the Cowboy by Cindy Roland Anderson

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Synopsis:

Tomi Jensen thought she'd landed the ultimate role when she was cast opposite of her Hollywood crush, Jake Kelley. It only took a few weeks of working with the self-absorbed actor to make her regret ever taking the part. When the film location for Whisper Falls changes to Snow Valley, Montana, Tomi is determined to finish filming so she can move onto bigger and better things. Throwing herself into her role as a small-town veterinarian, she shadows Dr. Ian Davies, the local vet her sister has been trying to set her up with for the past year. While Ian is single, extremely good-looking, and nice to old ladies and children, Tomi isn't looking to fall in love, especially with a man who never plans to leave his hometown. But spending two weeks with the hot cowboy complicates everything, and soon Tomi's dream of becoming an A-list actress starts to fade into the background as she and Ian grow closer. Still, when an opportunity for a bigger role comes her way, Tomi needs to decide what she wants more... living in the limelight or living with true love.

Review:

I'm a sucker for a book when a celebrity is involved... it just makes it more like your dreaming when reading the book. Normally the Male is the celebrity but roles are reversed in this cute book and I loved it. Tomi is an actress who's film relocated to my favorite small town Snow Valley. Her sister lives there so she was able to spend time with her and of course her sister has been wanting to set her up with the one and only Ian Davies but she's not interested in dating anyone. Ian is the town veterinarian and Tomi has to shadow him for her role and oh boy the steamy chemistry was just oozing off the pages...Like fireworks were going off from day one. I loved the characters, the witty writing and the strong connections. They had to figure life out and I loved how it ended. Once again i'm a big fan of Cindy!

Stars: 5

Dancing With the Prince by Kennedy Larsen

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Synopsis:

The only thing Lindy wanted on her Mediterranean cruise was to enjoy the sights and get away from the memories of her ex. She brought her cousin along as a deterrent for all the men, but when he ends up seas sick and stays in the cabin, Lindy is left to her own devices. When a handsome stranger with a sexy Spanish accent runs into her one night, she's surprised he's not as overbearing as some of the other men she's met so far. He asks to see her the next day she actually agrees. Carlos is on the cruise for one purpose, to convince the spoiled son of the royal family, Carlos doesn't have much time to play around, and meeting the beautiful American tourist is just a fun diversion. Yet the more time he spends with her, the more he wants to push his princely duties aside and just enjoy the fascinating woman's company. After the news leaks out that Prince Carlos is seeing an American commoner, Lindy is shocked to learn that she's the subject of tabloid gossip around the world. Lindy know Prince Carlos is too far out of her league and Carlos knows he should follow the rules of his title, but are either of them brave enough to see where things could lead if they just give it a chance.

Review:

A cruise, a handsome prince and a beautiful American make for an enchanting fairy tale. I loved this short and sweet novella and of course it made me wish I was on a cruise. Lindy was trying to get away for a bit and invited her cousin to join her on this cruise. She ran into a handsome stranger and was very cautious to join him when he invited her. Their connection grew quickly until her world was turned upside down with the truth. The story was very well written and was a quick read that kept  you interested til the very end. I look forward to reading more by this author. 

Stars: 4.5

Road Trip Collection- A Timeless Romance Anthology

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Synopsis:

From the publisher of the USA TODAY bestselling Timeless Romance Anthology series comes Road Trip Collection... Six contemporary romance novellas from bestselling authors:
What Falling Feels Like by Jolene Betty Perry
Antiques Road Trip by Sarah M. Eden
Wouldn't It Be Nice by Ranee S. Clark
Head Over Heels by Annette Lyon
Two Dozen Roses by Heather B. Moore
Try, Try Again by Aubrey Mace

Review:

I love when Timeless Romance Anthologies do collections of contemporary romance stories. I love road trips and these stories made me want to go on an adventure. These are all very unique but all sweet stories with happily ever after.

What Falling Feels Like was a sweet story about Kendall and Tyler (who is her best friends brother) travel to see Ivy... Tyler's sister and Kendall's best friend. She and Tyler had always been friends but she didn't know what his true feelings were. It was a story of finding yourself so you can give yourself to someone else. It is a quick read that kept me reading page by page to the end because I wanted to see what was going to happen. Loved it! It was very cute.

Antiques Road Trip was a fun and very unique story about a reality tv show. Kelsey loves the 19th Century so it's been a longtime dream to be on this tv show and it finally happened. She got very sick while doing it and her fiance' (as part of the show) took good care of her and was such a gentleman. This was very well written and such a cute idea for a story.

Wouldn't It Be Nice was about Jac who goes on a road trip with some friends and it led to finding love when she had just ended her relationship. She recently broke up with her boyfriend Colin realizing his job would always be the most important. Jac's long time friend Hudson joined the trip and the chemistry was sizzling between the two of them but Jac wanted to make sure to make the right decision for herself. The writing was great and it reminds you that those in your life and relationships are most important. It was very sweet!

Head Over Heels was so much fun! Tristan runs her own singles blog and was at an event in Salt Lake when she meets someone during a speed dating activity and feels a connection but then doesn't have a chance to get to know him more. She is asked to go to Vegas for a new singles event when her friend sets up a ride for her to Vegas when he shows up there he is. Ahh I loved this so much. They were cute and funny together and were pranking her friend when the sparks really started. Loved the story idea and the writing kept you turning the pages. So Cute!

Two Dozen Roses was an adventurous book that made me want to take a road trip up the Pacific Coast Highway. I love that Dayna was going on a road trip with her Mom and along the way they met two brothers that were doing the same trip. Dayna catches the eye of both brothers but of course she only has eyes for one of them and their connection develops at each stop. It was a fun flirty book that you find yourself hoping they can make it work when they get home. It was very well written and is another great novella by Heather.

Try, Try Again is a rom-com that I found myself smiling while I read it. Sarah drags her pregnant best friend on a road trip to Boise, Idaho for a friends, grandpa's funeral. She wanted to see if there was anything there with Justin and the flames are rekindled. I loved her friend, the way it was written and the second chance at love. It was cute, clean story.

Stars: 4.5

Taming the Prince by Addison Quinn

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Synopsis:

Kara's always dreamed of owning a successful ballet studio. But when a government-backed housing program turns out to be a scam, she's left fighting to keep the property while raising her ten-month-old niece alone. The last thing she needs is a drunk and haughty prince who just cost her thousands in property damage.

Prince Nicholas of Galia has given up. When his pet housing project collapses due to a scam, he becomes a rebellious playboy instead of cleaning up the mess. But when anti-royalists chase him into the ballet studio of a bewitching brunette, he finds himself desperate to become a man worthy of her love. 

As Nicholas and Kara repair her damaged studio together, outside forces threaten to tear them apart. Can Kara and Nicholas overlook each other's pasts to plan a future together?

Review: 

This is a unique fairy tale type novella that I very much enjoyed. It was very well written and was an easy read. Kara is working so hard to take care of her niece and live her dream of running a ballet studio. One night two wild men break into her studio causing a disaster and she feels her life goals are gone. Prince Nicholas tries to repair the damage and is a gentleman. I love that she didn't know who he was and that he was a Prince trying to make things right. The connection that forms between the two make things feel possible until she learns the truth of who he is. It was a short novella about trust and forgiveness. 

Stars: 4.5

Wouldn't It Be Nice by Ranee' S. Clark

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Synopsis:

When Jacqueline's boyfriend Colin drops out of their long-planned road trip with friends to put his job first-again-it's the final nail in the coffin of their dying relationship. But then Hudson, her best friend's brother, takes Colin's spot for the road trip, and Jacqueline's disappointment in her ex takes a back seat to the chance for reestablishing the close ties she once had with Hudson. When their friendship detours into romance, it forces Jacqueline to question her reasons for breaking up with Colin and her future with Hudson.

Review:

This is a cute contemporary novella about Jac and her road trip that led to finding love. She recently broke up with her boyfriend Colin realizing his job would always be most important. She went on a road trip with her friends and to her surprise her long time friend Hudson came and took Colin's place. I loved how honest and such a gentleman Hudson was. The chemistry between Hudson and Jac was sizzling but I liked how she made sure to make the right decision for herself. This book reminds you that those in your life and your relationships are most important. This is also a part of the fun Timeless Romance Anthology Road Trip Collection.

Stars: 4

Last Kiss by Ranee' S. Clark

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Synopsis:

Gwen Malone is back in her hometown of Clay, Wyoming, saving money while she figures out what to do next with her life and her dream of having her own online magazine. Then her ex, Cale Parrish shows up, working for her Dad, of all things. Things are awkward, of course, since he broke off their engagement just a month before the wedding.
But Cale has known for a long time that he made a mistake five years ago, when he allowed the pressure to marry her right after his mission eclipse his true feelings for her. He can't let a Gwen skip away from him again.
Cale's thoughtful gestures and reminders of their once-perfect relationship begin to convince Gen they should take a chance on them again-until a no-holds-barred kiss reminds her exactly how much she has to lose. Cale may be ready to jump right back in where they left off, but can Gwen trust him again so easily?

Review:

I enjoyed this super sweet quick read about a second chance love. I love this author's books and this one was no exception. This novella was very well written with great descriptions and information for you to know the whole situation. Gwen is working for her Dad for the Summer and in walks her ex Cale who also ends up working for her Dad. The chemistry is still there and they both feel it but I like how Gwen doesn't give in and Cale is such a gentleman as he tries to win her back. I love novella's and this one is very cute!

Stars: 4.5                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                      

One Little Kiss by Kaylee Baldwin

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Synopsis:

Tessa has her future planned to perfection. First get into medical school and become a doctor like everyone else in her family-despite her queasiness around blood. Second meet and marry someone who is just as successful as her brother-the new, handsome doctor in her ward will be just right. And last, prove to her brother that, despite what he thinks, she has it all together. Easy right? Except that she's just been called to be the ward road show director for the upcoming stake singles activity, a distraction she doesn't need. And when a mix-up means that she's partnered with her bug-eating, seventies dressing home teacher? It's a disaster with a capital D, and she knows that no one in her family can ever find out about this.

As a PhD student studying insects, Henry White has had his fair share of girls try to change him into someone more socially acceptable-including his ex-fiancé. When his sister convinces him to join the singles ward for his last year of school, he decided to play up his oddness in order to keep the singles at a distance. When he begins to work with Tessa on the road show, he finds that she's managed to get past his defenses. One little stage kiss is all it takes to make him question everything. But then his ex-fiancé comes home from her mission with one goal in mind: win Henry back, no matter what it takes. 

Tessa is soon faced with a choice. Go for the perfect life she's always pushed herself to have, or find the courage to look past appearances and figure out what she really wants.

Review:

This is such a cute book. I loved this unique and sweet storyline. I love that it is very much a fictional book centered around a singles ward in The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints. I laughed out loud at some of the singles ward situations and the way the girls acted because it is all so true. I think there are many people who can relate in some way to Tessa and the desire to not disappoint their family. I love how she learns, with a little help from nerdy Henry, that she needs to make decisions for her and that when she finally does she is much happier. I loved bug eating Henry... he is such a gentleman, a good friend and I loved his goofy character. Tessa and Henry have a great  connection that develops through out the book. Their chemistry is amazing and when one little kiss happens oh boy the sparks start a flyin'. This is very well written and pulls you in from page one. I can't wait to read more from this author.

Stars: 5

Southern Charmed by Melanie Jacobson

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Synopsis:

Lila Mae Guidry is a Southern girl through and through. As a fourth-generation Latter-day Saint in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, she's proud of her heritage as both a Southerner and a Saint- and she doesn't take kindly to people who disparage either. Ten years ago, Max Archer was just that kind of jerk. As the mission president's son, Max spent his entire three years mocking the South... and teenage Lila. After Max's family moved away, Lila forgot about her sworn enemy. Almost. When a new job brings a grown-up Max back to Baton Rouge, Lila is less than thrilled with his reappearance, especially since everyone seems intent on throwing her together with this old adversary. Yet fight as she may, Lila soon realizes resistance is futile-their connection is undeniable. Max embodies everything she wants in a man- except perhaps the most important thing- her life is rooted in the city she loves, but his dreams are bigger than Baton Rouge. With such mismatched visions of the future, Max and Lila are faced with a life-altering decision: jeopardize their aspirations of risk losing love.

Review:

Melanie is such a wonderful writer and I always love her books. This one was a little different to me but it's still great. It is a sweet, clean romance about two people who are members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints. They have a past and it gets in the way of the future they could have. If you really love each other and you are meant to be together everything will work out. The side story was interesting about one of her students and a big project she was helping her with. The end was cute and I love how everything and everyone was brought together for a special moment. The descriptions of The South made me feel like I was there and the characters were very real and well developed. This was a good read!

Stars: 4

Lost & Found by Karey White

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Synopsis:

Lydia was supposed to have an adventurous and exciting summer. Instead she's done nothing more than read and eat takeout. Now it's time to go home, and what does she have to show for it? A big fat nothing. Unless, of course, her trip to the airport somehow turns into something more than just a flight home.
Blake feels like he's been sent on a wild goose chase. While work is piling up back in Denver, he's on the other side of the country, hunting for some mysterious box that his grandfather left him. Well, no more. Nothing inside that box could possibly be more important than the opportunity to make it as the youngest partner at his firm. So he's going home, and that's that. But that's before he discovers his flight has been cancelled.
When these two strangers meet at the airport, they make a split-second decision to search for the box together. Maybe with both of them on the hunt, Lydia can have her adventure and Blake can find the box. And maybe, if they're lucky, they'll even find some romance.

Review:

This book pulled me in from the very beginning and I loved it! Even though Lydia enjoyed my kind of vacation... reading and eating takeout... she was supposed to have a more adventurous Summer vacation and it wasn't until she was heading home that it finally turned into that. Blake met Lydia when their flight was cancelled and together they decided to find the box he came to find before heading home. I loved their connection they built and how they were there for each other to accomplish what they were sent out to do. I loved how it was about how money/career are not the most important things... it's relationships and those you love. This was well written and I loved their chemistry. I have quite enjoyed the books in this series.

Stars: 4.5

Finding Us by Heather B. Moore

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Synopsis:

Felicity Miner is not normally an anxious person, and she's been on her own since high school. But after a shoplifter steals from her bookshop, she calls the cops/ When Officer Leo Russo shows up, Felicity has to tell herself that just because the romance novel she's neem reading has a hero police officer doesn't mean she needs to protect her imagination onto the real man. Yes, Officer Russo is unexpectedly generous, and he helps make Felicity's home more secure when her worries won't settle down. But the more Felicity is around Officer Russo, the more she imagines a future between them. Is he merely doing his duty, protecting and serving the citizens of Pine Valley, or is there potential for something more?

Review:

I love stories where two very different people meet and sparks fly. This is one of those books. Felicity and Officer Russo meet because there was a shoplifter where Felicity worked and Leo was the on duty officer that showed up on scene. I enjoyed the connection between the two and how they were there for each other especially during difficult family situations. It gives a good lesson on how you need to lean on each other in hard situations and not push away. Relationships are about the two involved and not everyone else. It is another very well written, fun, cute and of course romantic Pine Valley book. It was a wonderful addition to the series. I love how different each of the books are but that they are all full of hope, love and small town living.

Stars: 4.5

Serving the Prince by Lucinda Whitney

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Synopsis:

Julie Winters' life is simple: work and college. Her five-year plan doesn't allow for detours of any kind, and that includes no dating. With her family counting on the money she makes from her tips at the lodge, Julie is  serious about her responsibilities. She definitely won't let a man distract her, even when he looks like Max, a guest from Europe.
But when Julie's old car breaks down, the mysterious Max is the one to rescue her. And when she needs and archery tutor, Max volunteers for the job. Soon, they're spending time together, and Julie likes it. Maybe a little too much.
Prince Maximilian Wolfe is in the U.S. to look for investors, not to find a girlfriend. His friend Prince Henry likes to go clubbing, but Max prefers the simple things. When he meets Julie at the restaurant where she works, he's immediately intrigued by her beautiful brown eyes. Julie is different and genuine, and Max looks for ways to spend more time together.
There's only one problem-Julie doesn't know Max is a prince.

Review:

Who doesn't love a story with a Handsome Prince involved... ooo la la I sure do! Julie is a very hard working and responsible woman who is working as a waitress while she is going to college. One day she meets a very handsome gentleman at work. Max is in the U.S. looking for investors and is strictly their on business and not to find a girlfriend. When he meets Julie at the lodge where she works he is drawn to her and their paths cross. Max is such a gentleman and helps Julie in many ways and she begins to really like him until his little- I mean BIG secret is revealed. This was very well written. I enjoyed the characters and their interaction and chemistry that oozed off the pages. It is a very short read and I look forward to reading more by Sophia. This is a sweet clean and swoon worthy romance. And I love the cover!! The only complaint I have is that it was too short.

Stars: 4.5

Ring On Her Finger by Lisa Swinton

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Synopsis:

What happened in Vegas should stay there, not follow Amanda home, newly wedded to the man who broke her heart.

After celebrating college graduation with her friends in Las Vegas, Amanda St. Claire wakes up with a terrible hangover and a ring on her finger Her day gets worse when she finds out she's married to rich playboy Blake Worthington- the guy she has loathed the past four years. Amanda convinces Blake to legally terminate the marriage and they both return home like nothing ever happened. That is, until Blake shows up on her doorstep and Amanda has to come clean with her family.

Together for better or worse while the legalities are cleared, Amanda reluctantly plays along, but then the unthinkable happens-she finds herself falling in love with Blake.

Can they overcome the past? Or will it end their future before it even starts?

Review:

This book was so good and just had every kind of emotion in it and you felt that while you read it. Amanda went to Las Vegas with friends and had a little too much to drink and the next morning woke up married to the one guy she hated because she was hurt by him at the begin of college. She feels so angry and mad at herself because that was not in her "plan." Blake knows Amanda is the one for him but knows she would never think that about him so when she was drunk he married her and doesn't regret the marriage and wants to prove that to her. You like Amanda and her ambition for her goals in life but you just wish she could figure things out and feel with her heart through out the book. At first you think Blake is not a good guy because that is what Amanda thinks but throughout the book you learn more and more about Blake and he is an honest, hardworking guy who has been through a lot in his life and you feel bad for the guy. You are reassured that money isn't always a great thing in family dynamics and that everyone needs to feel loved in their life. This book was so well written. It was very descriptive and you wanted to read every detail because it felt so realistic. I loved the conclusion and you couldn't wait to see how it would all end. It is a clean romance but there is talk of alcohol and a conversation about sex... It did take place in Vegas and we all know "what happens in Vegas..."

Stars: 4.5

The Owner's Secret by Kimberley Montpetit

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Synopsis:

Melody de Lyon's cozy New Orleans bookstore is her pride and joy- until a violent hurricane sweeps it all away. Forced to flee the storm by boat with her ailing grandmother, she wonders how she will ever pick up the pieces of this disaster.

Then, in a fevered state, her grandmother utters a cryptic message that sets Melody on the quest of a lifetime: "Go to White Castle." With nothing left to lose, Melody seeks out the old mansion- a beautiful Southern relic haunted by secrets. Once there, she finds Britt Mandeville, the handsome and charming White Castle caretaker.

Fireworks erupt between them and Melody's attraction is stronger than she's ever experienced with a man before, but any hopes of a relationship between them are dashed when she discovers that Britt is already engaged to another woman.
When Melody stumbles across a strange 60-year-old photograph in the house, she is determined to find answers- and the shocking revelations and strange twists of fate lead her right back to Britt.
Can she put all the pieces of the puzzle together, or will family secrets and true love be lost to her forever?

Review:

This was a wonderfully written and very captivating book. It had me from the beginning all the way to the last page. I love that it is a contemporary romance but with a lot of history throughout the book. Melody and her sick grandmother were in a terrible hurricane and lost just about everything. When Melody was leaving her grandma in the hospital she told her to "go to White Castle" so she searched it out and headed to this amazing southern plantation which was not what she expected and little did she know her life was going to change forever. Britt is such a southern gentleman who has a girlfriend turned fiancé and ex fiancé real quick. You quickly realize you are not a fan of her. When he and Melody meet at White Castle sparks fly real quick and a twist with the ex fiancé happens. I was not expecting that!! The development and chemistry of the characters, the beautiful setting, and the storyline made for an excellent and very intriguing book.

Stars: 5

Firsts and Lasts by Annette Lyon

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Synopsis:

Dani has failed in her dreams to catch a break as a dancer in New York, but before she heads home to the Midwest, she decides to visit the places still on her to-see list. Then she meets Mark, another transplant to the Big Apple with big dreams of his own. Except Mark hasn't given up on his. As they spend the day together, Dani realizes that even though she hasn't hit the big time, she may be able to live her dreams after all. Only one problem: she's broke and has a one-way ticket home.

Review:

This is a very cute quick read about two artists struggling to make ends meet in New York. Dani has decided to head back home in 10 days but before doing so she plans to do the touristy things she hasn't had a chance to do. She has a chance encounter with Mark who turns her last 10 days in to her best 10 days of the last 6 months. Their friendship develops and soon feelings for more develop on both sides but she's leaving so soon. I loved this book about not giving up on dreams and building connections with those in your life. I have always wanted to visit New York and the details of the sites in this book has moved it up my travel list. This was a very well written short novella.

Stars: 4.5

A Partner for the Paramedic by Liz Isaacson

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Synopsis:

A set of identical twins, a pair of paramedic partners, and the mistaken identity that could cost both twins their chance at happily-ever-after...
Jazzy Fuller has always been overshadowed by her prettier, more popular twin, Fabiana. While Jazzy hasn't been on a date in almost a year, Fabi has to schedule weeks out just to accommodate all the invitations she gets. She meets paramedic Max Robinson at the park and sets a date with him only to come down with the flu.
So she convinces Jazzy to cut her hair and take her place on the date. And the spark between Jazzy and Max is hot and instant... if only he knew she wasn't her sister, Fabi.
Max has been married once before, but he now spends his time playing the guitar and taking care of his little sister's exotic bird. He drives the ambulance for the town of Brush Creek with his partner Ed Moon, and neither of them have been all that lucky in love.
Until Max suggests to who he thinks is Fabi that they should double with Ed and Jazzy. They do, and Fabi is smitten with the steady, strong Ed Moon, who's come to Brush Creek to help take care of his sister and her family after a devastating accident. As each twin falls further and further in love with their respective paramedic, it becomes obvious they'll need to come clean about the switcharoo sooner rather than later... or risk losing their hearts. Will Fabi and Jazzy find the courage and faith to reveal their true identities? And when they do, will Ed and Max forgive them?

Review:

This book is extra sweet, clean and romantic because you get not one but two love stories. The Fuller twins Fabi and Jazzy get themselves into a little double trouble when they do a little switcharoo. Fabi didn't want to cancel her date again but she was sick so she talked Jazzy into going. Jazzy went and had a good time and is now very interested in Max. Max has a friend named Ed that he wants to do a double date with and ask the Fuller twins. Little do the guys know they aren't actually going out with who they think they are and the twins have some explaining to do. I thought this book was super cute and fun. I loved the chemistry between each of the couples and I'm glad they were able to overcome their situations so that they could move on. I loved that it's about twins and it always makes me wonder if my boys will pull a switcharoo when they get older in school or something.

Stars: 4.5

A Date for the Detective by Liz Isaacson

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Synopsis:

Dahlia Reid is one of the best detective Brush Creek and the surrounding towns has ever had. She's given up on the idea of marriage-and pleasing her mother-and has dedicated herself fully to her job. Which is great, since one of the most perplexing cases of her career has come to town. She spends odd hours with her male partner, researching strange topics, and thinking of different angles to figure out who's bringing drugs though their county.
Kyler Fuller thinks he's finally ready to move past the woman who ghosted him years ago. He's cut his hair, and he's ready to start dating. Too bad every woman he's been out with is about as interesting as a lamppost- until Dahlia. He finds her beautiful, her quick wit a breath of fresh air, and her intelligence sexy.
But her top secret case pulls her away a lot, causing her to break their dates often. Kyler wants to be patient, because he's never met someone who speaks to his heart the way Dahlia does. But he's frustrated he comes second to the job. When he finds himself in the middle of her case-right between her and the man she's looking for-Kyler will have to decide if she's worth the risk or if he should look for a date who doesn't hunt criminals for a living.

Review:

This book had it all from pretty much love at first sight to suspense and heartbreak. It kept me reading and I may have stayed up too late to finish it. I loved that Dahlia is a detective... she is a strong, tough girl and I could never imagine being put in situations that her job puts her in. Kyler went to his family cabin to get away and little did he know he would meet a beautiful woman and then get put in the middle of an investigation. Dahlia has always put her job first and she finally found someone that she wants to put first but she has a hard time deciding what to do. I loved their connection and their relationship that quickly developed. It was an intriguing clean romance.

Stars: 4.5

On the Corner of Heartache and Love by Lisa Swinton

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Synopsis:

After three years, Maren Summers elated to finally have her dream wedding to her dream man, Kevin Bryant. In her sights is the promotion to weddings she's worked so hard for at the newspaper. Happily ever after is within her grasp...
Until Kevin jilts her at the altar, elopes with another woman, and becomes her boss. Devastated by the twisted turn of events Maren moves in with her best friend and notices the not-so-homeless guy on the corner, Zane Whitfield. As his heart-wrenching tale unfolds-his vow to wait a year on the corner for his lost love-Maren sees his compassionate human-interest story as her ticket away from Kevin, weddings, and her heartache.
But as the New Year approaches, is Maren headed for heartache again when Zane's lost love returns or has time changed more than one heart?

Review:

This book was so good, so different but same great writing by Lisa. Oh man does it pull at your heartstrings. Maren works for a newspaper covering funerals and her dream is to cover weddings especially because her dream wedding is right around the corner. But your heart breaks for her when she is left at the altar... I can't even imagine! I loved Maren's character and the strong woman she was and how she worked through this hard time in her life. I liked each of the characters and they all added their own touch to the book... Ooo I found myself mad at her ex and his "new" love. It was different then books I have read because the not-homeless homeless guy on the corner put a different twist to the book. Happy endings make me so happy and Maren definitely deserved one. This was a very cute book.

Stars: 5

A Treasure for the Trooper by Liz Isaacson

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Synopsis:

Dawn Fuller has made some mistakes in her life, and she's not proud of the way McDermott Boyd found her off the road one day last year. She'd driven an hour to have a medical test done so her family wouldn't know, and while McDermott has asked Dawn out several times since then, her shame and embarrassment haven't allowed her to say yes.
She's spent a hard year wrestling with her choices and trying to fix them, glad for McDermott's acceptance and friendship. He lost his wife years ago, done his best with his daughter, and now he's ready to move on. He's dated other women, but he keeps gravitating back to Dawn as if she's the sun and his whole world revolves around her. He asks her out one more time, surprised when she finally accepts. Can McDermott help Dawn find a way past her former mistakes and down a path that leads to love, family, and happiness?

Review:

This was a clean inspirational book about overcoming the past and becoming stronger and learning who you are. There is always room for growth and changing your ways but you've got to forgive yourself also. I loved the consistency and commitment McDermott had towards Dawn and not giving up when she wasn't sure about things. She was worried about her past and I love that he wanted today's Dawn and didn't care about Dawn and her past choices. Once Dawn would let it the sparks flew between Dawn and McDermott. I love that this series of Brush Creek Brides is about a family. I enjoy that all the other Fuller family members are in the books so I look forward to each of their stories.

Stars: 4

If the Suit Fits by Sally Johnson

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Synopsis:

Finding love at the amusement park can be quite a ride. Becky Perkins has lost her job, her lease, and her car. As a result, she moves back in with her parents and takes the only job she can find: a seasonal position at the local amusement park as a sign spinner. Unfortunately, it includes wearing a foam hot dog suit. When she crashes into fellow park employee Hudson Lowell, on her first day, suddenly the job doesn't seem so bad.
Actuary Hudson Lowell feels the weight of the world on his shoulders with this assignment. The Gainesville Amusement Park has been struggling for years. It's his responsibility to advise the owners as to the viability of the park. Going into the deal, the solution seems pretty simple-until he meets Becky. The more time Becky and Hudson spend together, the more their feelings grow, making it harder and harder for Hudson to be objective about his decision. If the park closes, it will impact the whole town and directly hurt Becky. And how can he hurt the woman he has fallen for?

Review:

Becky has had quite the string of bad luck when she takes the job at the Hot Dog shop at the amusement park and gets the lucky job of wearing the hot dog costume. Already feeling humiliated she runs in to a rather handsome park employee and looks forward to seeing him each day. Sparks fly as they spend time together. Hudson meets Becky and begins to feel strongly for her but is worried for when she finds out who he is. This book has a little bit of everything and is a cute sweet novella. It was fun to have this book centered around an amusement park for different kind of setting. This book felt like it was a real life story where there was good times and challenging times. I like Sally's writing and look forward to reading more of her books.

Stars: 4.5

Marriage for the Marine by Liz Isaacson

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Synopsis:

Tate Benson can't believe he's come to Nowhere, Utah, to fix up a house that hasn't been inhabited in years. But he has. Because he's retired from the Marines and looking to start a life as a police officer in small-town Brush Creek.
Wren Fuller has her hands full most days running her family's company. When Tate calls and demands a maid for that morning, she decided to have the calls forwarded to her cell and go help him out. She didn't know he was moving in next door, and she's completely unprepared for his handsomeness, his kind heart, and his wounded soul.

Review:

I am so excited that there are new novella's added to the Brush Creek series. I love these sweet, clean quick romances about faith, family, hope and their journey to find love. This one sucked me in right from the start. Tate moves to small town Brush Creek to start a new life and new job as a police officer. Wren comes from a big family and pretty much runs the family business. Tate calls the business and Wren drops everything to help some guy... little did she know she'd be helping her next door neighbor who had just moved in and is very handsome. Can two people from very different lives come together? This is a fast paced book with a great love story. I loved these characters and how they helped each other out. I'm excited to read more in the series.

Stars: 4.5

Keep Me At Christmas by Lucinda Whitney

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Synopsis:

When Luciana Romano arrives in Hudson Springs, New York, her plan is to complete her restoration job at the museum so she can return home to her family right after Christmas. But a blizzard grounds all flights, and she finds herself stranded. The DiLorenzo family offers her a place to stay, and she accepts their hospitality. But the unexpected attraction between her and the quiet, good-looking son makes it hard to want to leave.
Jack DiLorenzo is stuck, Managing the family's Italian café is not what he'd planned to do with his life, but his sense of duty won't let him quit. When his grandmother invites a Portuguese woman to stay with them, Jack feels something he hasn't felt for a long time: hope. He knows he shouldn't get close to Luciana since she's leaving as soon as the airport opens, but he can't help himself.
Yet as the magic of the season begins to work on them, he wonders how he can let go of the woman who's awakened his heart.

Review:

Oh how I love Christmas time and who doesn't love a little Christmas romance?! I loved reading all about the cold, snowy Christmas season while I am enjoying a nice toasty Summer. This was a very cute story about Luciana who travels to New York for a job and she meets the DiLorenzo family at a small café not realizing her world and plan for New York was going to be turned upside down. I love the friendship and connection that developed between Luciana and Jack. Jack was so sweet and showed Luciana how to enjoy the winter and experience the best Christmas festival. There may have been a mishap or two but I love that hope was restored in their hearts. I loved the characters and it was very well written. The end made my heart happy! I love the Romano family and each of their stories and this was a fabulous addition to the series.

Stars: 5

Waiting for You by Heather B. Moore

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Synopsis:

Gwen Robbins loves her job waitressing at the Pine Valley resort restaurant, and as a single woman, she has no trouble turning down any offers of dates from the restaurant patrons. Even when her boss, Seth Owens, shows interest in her, she's not tempted in the least, no matter how strong their attraction.
But when Seth helps her through a crisis,  she begins to see him in a different light. He's not the rich and privileged business owner she first makes him out to be, but a man who's making huge sacrifices to follow his own dreams. As Seth encourages Gwen to mend her own divide with her family, she realizes her heart is slowly opening toward a better future.

Review:

I loved this book about following your dreams, forgiveness, hope and of course love. I was excited to get to read Gwen and Seth's story since we heard a little about them in another book. Gwen is a hardworking, strong willed woman who has family issues and doesn't want to date anyone especially someone who may have money. Seth owns the restaurant that Gwen works at and has noticed Gwen for awhile now and is getting more and more interested. When he follows Gwen out to the parking lot one night and she's upset because she needed to get to the store before it closed Seth stepped right in and helped her with her big project of making cupcakes for the homeless shelter she visits often. The connection between Seth and Gwen is amazing but she keeps him as far away as possible and he just keeps being the nice gentleman that he is. Heather did a fabulous job again! It was very well written and I like how it leaves you with a smile on your face. I love the cover of the book! It's a perfect Summer read since it all starts with a 4th of July crisis. I couldn't wait to read this book because I just love this Pine Valley series and I hope this isn't really the last one! I give the whole series an A+

Stars: 5

Falling for Lucy by Heather B. Moore

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Synopsis:

Lucy Morley's older sister is perfect, and her younger brother is nearly there, too. Yet Lucy can't even hold down a job, let alone stick with something like college. She drops out and floats from job to job. After yet another disastrous firing, she lands an interview at a bookstore-her dream job-and it doesn't hurt that her new boss, Adam Parks, is pretty much her dream man. But if Lucy is good at one thing, its guarding her personal life and more importantly her heart. Adam has other plans in mind, though, and they include finding a way into Lucy's heart.

Review:

I love Heather's Falling Series that came out last year so I was excited for a new novella. I loved this novella about Lucy who has had many jobs and didn't graduate from college. But little does she know that when she takes a part time job at a bookstore it could change her life forever. She is very kind and has a good heart. It was an extra quick read with great chemistry between the characters. I loved that it took place in a bookstore... I mean who doesn't love books ;)

Stars: 5