Showing posts with label 4 Stars. Show all posts
Showing posts with label 4 Stars. Show all posts

Friday, February 9, 2024

JXR's Review: To Woo and to Wed

To Woo and to Wed
by Martha Waters
Publisher: Atria Books (February 6, 2024)
Series: The Regency Vows, 5
Genre: Historical Romance (MF)

 
The final installment in the “hilarious and steamy” (PopSugar) Regency Vows series follows the heir to a dukedom and a young widow, once very much in love, as they reunite years later to fake an engagement for the benefit of her sister.

West, the Marquess of Weston, and Sophie, Lady Fitzwilliam Bridewell, have lately been spending a considerable amount of time together. But West and Sophie are not new acquaintances. In fact, years ago, they had once been nearly engaged until West’s almost fatal curricle accident and his meddling father threw them off course.

Now recently widowed, Sophie has put aside all thoughts of romance. But when her widowed sister, Alexandra, mentions a fondness for an earl, Sophie realizes that she may be holding her sister back. Alexandra won’t move forward with an engagement until Sophie, too, settles down again, and so Sophie approaches West with a plan. They will announce their engagement and break things off once Alexandra is happily married. It’ll be simple. After all, it’s not like she is going to fall for West a second time, not when Sophie has sworn not to risk her heart again.


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Monday, September 14, 2020

Melinda's Mini Reviews for September

Melinda has a few mini reviews for you today, from 4 to 4 1/2 Stars!



Just a Heartbeat Away
by Cara Bastone
Publisher: June 30th, 2020
Series: Forever Yours, 1
Genre: Contemporary Romance (M/F)


Some people change your life

Others change your heart

Newly widowed dad Sebastian Dorner was unraveling at the edges—until his son’s teacher, Via DeRosa, threw him a lifeline. Now, two years later, they reconnect at Matty’s new school, and an inconvenient but unmistakable jolt of attraction crackles between them. But why does the first person to spark with Sebastian in years have to be a millennial? Is twentysomething Via really too young for him or does fortysomething Sebastian just feel too damn old?

A former foster kid, Via’s finally forged the stable life she’s always dreamed of—new job, steady income, no drama. The last thing she needs are rumors about her and a single dad at school. But why does she keep being drawn into his capable, worn-flannel orbit? And why does being around Sebastian, Matty and even their dog, Crabby, seem to spark so much want?

They’re trying to ignore the tension threatening their friendship. But sometimes what’ll heal you is just a touch—and a heartbeat—away.



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Friday, August 14, 2020

Melinda's Mini Reviews for August

Melinda has a few mini reviews for you today, from 3 to 4 Stars!



Things Hoped For
by Chencia Higgins
Publisher: EKOL Media (July 28, 2020)
Series: The Vow Series, 4
Genre: Contemporary Romance (Queer, F/F)


Can two women who only want to be loved, find a home in each other when the world around them is moving too fast for them to settle down?

Growing up in an intolerant town, Latrisha Martin was used to shrinking the most important parts of herself. She hid her loneliness within a busy life and kept the yearning in her heart tucked away from those closest to her. Just as the façade became too heavy to maintain, Trisha received wise words from a strange woman that helped redirect her life's journey. On a whim, she relocates to Houston, and while adjusting to a new normal, she finds that those desires she'd once hidden begin to manifest in ways she never imagined.

With her star attached to a rocket ship, Xenobia Cooper was quickly transforming from a locally known talent into a name known in households across the nation. Viewed as an overnight success to many, the only thing that the veteran of the Houston underground music scene hadn't prepared for was living a life without someone to come home to at the end of the day. A reckless tweet sent out in the middle of the night brings an influx of women with stars in their eyes, but they all lack the key component that Xeno is looking for. A chance encounter after her largest show to date and she's convinced that those things she'd hoped for are just within her grasp.

The Vow Series
To Buy a Vow - Book 1
To Build a Vow - Book 2
To Break a Vow - Book 3
Things Hoped For - Book 4



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Friday, July 17, 2020

Sarah's Review: Mr. Hotshot CEO

Mr. Hotshot CEO by Jackie Lau
Publisher: Jackie Lau Books (July 10, 2018)
Series: Kwan Sisters, 2
Genre: Contemporary Romance (M/F)
Dual 1st POV


As CEO of Fong Investments, I’m a busy man. In fact, my family claims I’m an obsessive workaholic, and when they force me to take two weeks off, I have no idea what to do with myself.

While brooding over an espresso, I meet Courtney Kwan, a biomedical researcher who savors the little things in life. And, suddenly, an idea strikes me—I will pay this woman to teach me how to enjoy my vacation from work.

Soon, I find myself doing crazy things like baking cookies, reading for pleasure, buying a phallic cactus, and falling in love. But Courtney is dealing with some serious issues of her own, and I fear that when I return to work, I won’t be able to give her what she needs, and I’ll lose her forever…



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Monday, July 13, 2020

Sarah's Review: Pregnant by the Playboy

Pregnant by the Playboy by Jackie Lau
Publisher: Jackie Lau Books (May 26, 2020)
Series: Fong Brothers, 1
Genre: Contemporary Romance (M/F)
Dual 1st POV


I’ve got a pretty great life, if I do say so myself. I made a fortune when I sold my tech start-up, and I’ve spent the years since partying, drinking, and inviting a parade of women into my bed.

I should be happy, but I feel an annoying lack of fulfillment, and there’s no way I’m going back to the work I did before.

At a friend’s party, I meet Marissa. We have hot sex against the door and agree to spend the weekend together. Just one weekend. I never expect to see her again.

Except now she’s pregnant with my baby…and I think this is the solution to all my problems. This is what will bring meaning to my life. I’m going to be a devoted father and husband.

Marissa—whose last name I still don’t know—wants me to be involved, though she rejects my marriage proposal. But before the baby arrives, I’m going to prove to her that I can be something other than a playboy.

And the rare times I set my mind to something, I don’t fail…



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Friday, May 1, 2020

Melinda's Mini Reviews for May

Melinda has a few mini reviews for you today, from DNF to 4 Stars.



Dear Enemy by Kristen Callihan
Publisher: Montlake (March 31, 2020)
Genre: Contemporary Romance (M/F)


From New York Times bestselling author Kristen Callihan comes a smart, emotional contemporary romance about finding love with the most unlikely of people.

As kids, they hated each other. Macon Saint was beautiful, but despite his name, Delilah knew he was the devil. That he dated her slightly evil sister, Samantha, was no picnic either. When they broke up, it was a dream come true: Delilah never had to see him again.

Ten years later, her old enemy sends a text.

Delilah’s sister has stolen a valuable heirloom from Macon, now a rising Hollywood star, and he intends to collect his due. One problem: Sam has skipped town.

Sparks still sizzle between Macon and Delilah, only this heat feels alarmingly like unwanted attraction. But Delilah is desperate to keep her weak-hearted mother from learning of her sister’s theft. So she proposes a deal: she’ll pay off the debt by being Macon’s personal chef and assistant.

It’s a recipe for disaster, but Macon can’t stop himself from accepting. Even though Delilah clearly hates him, there’s something about her that feels like home. Besides, they’re no longer kids, and what once was a bitter rivalry has the potential to be something sweeter. Something like forever.



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Monday, March 2, 2020

Melinda's Review: Forbidden Promises

Forbidden Promises by Synithia Williams
Publisher: HQN Books (February 25, 2020)
Series: Jackson Falls, 1
Genre: Contemporary Romance (M/F)


What do you do when you want the one person you can never have?

Get in and get out. That was India Robidoux’s plan for this family visit. But when her brother needs her help with his high-profile political campaign, India has no choice but to stay and face the one man she’s been running from for years—Travis, her sister’s ex-husband. One hot summer night when Travis was still free, they celebrated her birthday with whiskey and an unforgettable kiss. The memory is as strong as ever—and so are the feelings she’s tried so hard to forget.

Travis Strickland owes everything to the Robidoux family. There’s nothing he wouldn’t do for them—his divorce could never change that. Still, he has one regret. Impulsive and passionate, India always understood him better than anyone else. And the longer they work together on the campaign, the more torn he is. Coming between her and her sister is out of the question. But how can he let love pass him by a second time?



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Content Warnings: miscarriage off page, alcoholism, gun violence, cheating (not main couple)







Melinda's Review:

Monday, February 24, 2020

Sarah's Review: A Big Surprise for Valentine's Day

A Big Surprise for Valentine's Day by Jackie Lau
Publisher: Jackie Lau Books (February 4, 2020)
Series: Holidays with the Wongs, 4
Genre: Contemporary Romance (M/F)


Amber Wong has landed her dream job at the Stratford Festival, and life is looking good. Sure, she hasn’t had sex in so long that her condoms have expired, but she’ll just pick up some new ones, along with some discounted Christmas chocolate, at the grocery store.

And that’s where she runs into Dr. Sebastian Lam, the son of her parents’ close friends, whom she hasn’t seen in years. He’s moved back to Ontario, newly single, and… Oh my God. He’s really hot.

The attraction is mutual and no-strings-attached sex is the perfect arrangement for both of them, since Amber has sworn off dating after a string of terrible boyfriends.

But what if their families find out they’re spending time together and start interfering in their lives? That would be a disaster.

Even worse? If they develop feelings for each other, given a relationship is the last thing Amber wants right now…



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Sarah's Review:

Friday, January 31, 2020

Melinda's Mini Reviews for January (Part 2)

Melinda has a few mini reviews for you today, from 3 1/2 to 4 1/2 Stars.



American Love Story by Adriana Herrera
Publisher: Carina Press (October 7, 2019)
Series: Dreams, 3
Genre: Contemporary Romance (Queer, M/M)


No one should have to choose between love and justice.

Haitian-born professor and activist Patrice Denis is not here for anything that will veer him off the path he’s worked so hard for. One particularly dangerous distraction: Easton Archer, the assistant district attorney who last summer gave Patrice some of the most intense nights of his life, and still makes him all but forget they’re from two completely different worlds.

All-around golden boy Easton forged his own path to success, choosing public service over the comforts of his family’s wealth. With local law enforcement unfairly targeting young men of color, and his career—and conscience—on the line, now is hardly the time to be thirsting after Patrice again. Even if their nights together have turned into so much more.

For the first time, Patrice is tempted to open up and embrace the happiness he’s always denied himself. But as tensions between the community and the sheriff’s office grow by the day, Easton’s personal and professional lives collide. And when the issue at hand hits closer to home than either could imagine, they’ll have to work to forge a path forward…together.



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Monday, January 6, 2020

Sarah's Review: A Fake Girlfriend for Chinese New Year

A Fake Girlfriend for Chinese New Year by Jackie Lau
Publisher: Jackie Lau Books (January 7, 2020)
Series: Holidays with the Wongs, 3
Genre: Contemporary Romance (M/F)


After his family’s matchmaking extravaganza at Thanksgiving, high school teacher Zach Wong is terrified of what his parents might do for Chinese New Year. Surely they’ll try to set him up yet again, especially now that his older brothers are in relationships. Zach, however, has no interest in dating, not since his fiancée left him.

The solution? Find a fake girlfriend to avoid his parents’ matchmaking.

Jo MacGregor, the town dentist, is the obvious choice. They both live in Mosquito Bay and have been friends for years, ever since they bonded over broken engagements. A few kisses and dates around town, and everyone will believe they’re in a relationship. No problem.

Except their fake relationship is starting to feel more and more real… 



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Sarah's Review:

Monday, December 16, 2019

Sarah's Review: A Second Chance Road Trip for Christmas

A Second Chance Road Trip for Christmas by Jackie Lau
Publisher: Jackie Lau Books (November 12, 2019)
Series: Holidays with the Wongs, 2
Genre: Contemporary Romance (M/F)


Greg Wong hates when things don’t go according to plan, so he definitely doesn’t appreciate it when his mother insists he drive Tasha Edwards back to Mosquito Bay for the Christmas holidays. He likes peace and quiet when he’s in the car, and that’s the opposite of what he’ll get with Tasha, his high school sweetheart. The first woman he ever loved.

Not that he has feelings for her now. Of course not. Though while he’s trying not to smile at her laughter and terrible singing, he can’t help noticing how beautiful she is.

And then his plans veer further off course when a snowstorm forces them to spend the night in an unheated motel room with only one bed…



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Monday, November 18, 2019

Sarah's Review: A Match Made for Thanksgiving

A Match Made for Thanksgiving by Jackie Lau
Publisher: Jackie Lau Books (October 8, 2019)
Series: Holidays with the Wongs, 1
Genre: Contemporary Romance (M/F)


Advertising executive Nick Wong enjoys living in Toronto. He loves late nights partying and taking women back to his penthouse. And so it is with great reluctance that he returns to his boring hometown of Mosquito Bay for Thanksgiving.

This year, however, is even worse than usual. His interfering parents and grandparents, frustrated with the lack of weddings in the family, have invited blind dates for him and his three siblings. Nick’s brother Greg has been set up with Lily Tseng, who just so happens to be Nick’s latest one-night stand, the one he can’t get out of his mind.

Although Nick has never been interested in settling down, Lily has him reconsidering. Perhaps he’s good for more than a single night of sex, dumplings, and bubble tea after all. But first, he has to get through this painful weekend with his family and convince her that she should be with him, not Greg…



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Sarah's Review:

Friday, August 23, 2019

Pat's Review: Between Me and You

Between Me and You by Kimberly Kincaid
Publisher: Kimberly Kincaid Romance (August 13, 2019)
Series: Remington Medical, 3
Genre: Contemporary Romance (M/F)


He hates the corporate world.
She's all business.
Now they have to work together
on the one job that could
make or break them both...

Connor became a flight medic
for one reason, and
one reason only.
To help people.
If he can keep his head down
and his past in the past while he's at it?
Even better.

Until Harlow appears to upend his world
with an offer he can't refuse.

She's calculating. Composed.
Scalpel-sharp.
And she'll stop at nothing to make
her father's business successful.

Even if that means teaming up with Connor
to turn around a failing clinic.

He shouldn't like her.
He definitely shouldn't want her.
But the more they work together
the less he's able to resist.

But Connor's secrets run deep.
Will Harlow's ambition ruin him,
or will she be his salvation?


From USA Today best-seller Kimberly Kincaid comes an enemies-to-lovers story full of emotion and heat. This full-length romance features a muscle-bound veteran flight medic and a smart, tart female CEO finding happily ever after...the hard way.



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Monday, July 15, 2019

Melinda's Mini Reviews for July

Melinda has a few mini reviews for you today, from 4 to 4 1/2 Stars.



Kitten by Jack Harbon
Publisher: Jack Harbon (May 20th, 2019)
Genre: Contemporary Romance -- Queer, M/M


Fresh out of college and back on his older sister's couch, Kit expected his days to return to the way they'd always been. He anticipated spending his days perusing Netflix with one hand on the remote and the other in a box of pizza, but when he's given the opportunity for a job at one of New York City's newest advertising agencies, there's no way he can turn the offer down. Unfortunately for Kit, this job might be more than he bargained for.

Not only does Roman - his handsome yet ruthless new boss - let his wandering eye linger just a little too long, Kit can't seem to shake the feeling that the glitzy personal assistant gig he just landed might be a bit shadier than he imagined. Before he's even able to make a reservation for Roman's dinner at Le Bernardin, Kit's professional and personal life become one, and he finds himself forced to somehow separate business from pleasure.

Easier said than done, especially when it’s his job to take care of Roman’s every need.



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Monday, June 10, 2019

Melinda's Mini Reviews for June

Melinda has a few mini reviews for you today, from 3 to 4 Stars.



The Key to Happily Ever After by Tif Marcelo
Publisher: Gallery Books (May 14, 2019)
Genre: Contemporary / WF


A charming romantic comedy about three sisters who are struggling to keep the family wedding planning business afloat—all the while trying to write their own happily-ever-afters in the process. 

All’s fair in love and business.

The de la Rosa family and their wedding planning business have been creating happily ever afters in the Washington, DC area for years, making even the most difficult bride’s day a fairytale. But when their parents announce their retirement, the sisters—Marisol, Janelyn, and Pearl—are determined to take over the business themselves.

But the sisters quickly discover that the wedding business isn’t all rings and roses. There are brides whose moods can change at the drop of a hat; grooms who want to control every part of the process; and couples who argue until their big day. As emotions run high, the de la Rosa sisters quickly realize one thing: even when disaster strikes—whether it’s a wardrobe malfunction or a snowmageddon in the middle of a spring wedding—they’ll always have each other.

Perfect for fans of the witty and engaging novels of Amy E. Reichert and Susan Mallery, The Key to Happily Ever After is a fresh romantic comedy that celebrates the crucial and profound power of sisterhood.



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Friday, June 7, 2019

Pat's Review: Holding Out

Holding Out by Serena Bell
Publisher: Jelsba Media Group (May 21, 2019)
Series: Returning Home, 4
Genre: Contemporary Romance


His friend's little sister has just asked him for a BIG favor. The trouble is, once won't be enough ... for either of them.

The answer has to be no, of course. No way Griff Ambrose is going to help Becca Drake solve her inexperience issues. Not only is she his friend's sister, but Griff doesn't do commitment--not since the day he came home from war to find his house empty and his wife gone.

But he can't get Becca's request--or pretty much anything else about her--out of his head. What can it hurt, anyway? If it's awkward afterwards, they can just avoid each other. Right?

Becca Drake has turned her life around, and she's proud of how much butt she's kicking. The shy girl with the self-esteem problem has been shown the door, and New Becca's in the driver's seat. There's just one more demon she has to exorcise. Her lack of experience is messing up her romantic life. Guys who might be okay with giving her a test drive act like they're being auditioned for marriage when they find out exactly what she's never done.

Griff is the perfect candidate to do the deed: He's her friend, he's hot as heck, and neither of them wants anything serious.

Then Becca's job goes belly up and she takes a temporary position at the veterans' retreat where Griff works. Now she and Griff can't stay out of each other's way--and their entanglement keeps getting messier--and hotter. Worst of all, it's getting harder and harder for Becca and Griff to lie to themselves about what they really want...  



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Friday, May 24, 2019

Sarah's Review: Fit

Fit by Rebekah Weatherspoon
Publisher: Rebekah Weatherspoon (June 1, 2014)
Series: Fit Trilogy, 1
Genre: Contemporary Romance


Violet Ryan loves the delicious food she gets to eat on the reality shows she produces for The Food Channel. What she hates is her expanding waistline. Determined to drop the pounds, Violet hatches a plan to kick start a fitness regimen. But when her determination isn’t enough to get her through even one intense group class without breaking down into tears, she knows she needs a new approach and possibly a new trainer—one with a lighter touch.

Grant Gibson has always managed to mix business with pleasure, but now this trainer by day, and Dominant by night, is bored. Bored and lonely. Even though he owns one of L.A.’s hottest private gyms, his personal life is sorely lacking. After his last submissive tried to kidnap his dog and the contents of his bank account, he’s in no hurry to take a new lover under his wing. Not until the voluptuous Violet falls into his lap.

She may be wary of his unorthodox approach of using sexual gratification as a reward, but even before her initial weigh-in Violet can’t seem to stay away from the sexy fitness god. She may have to let Grant show her there’s more than one way to get in shape…

**This story contains light acts of bondage and a feisty submissive who gives her Dominant a run for his money.**


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Monday, May 20, 2019

Melinda's Mini Reviews for May

Melinda has a few mini review for you today, from DNF to 4 Stars.



Fumbled by Alexa Martin
Publisher: Berkley (April 23, 2019)
Series: Playbook, 2
Genre: Contemporary Romance


A second chance doesn't guarantee a touchdown in this new contemporary romance from the author of Intercepted.

Single-mother Poppy Patterson moved across the country when she was sixteen and pregnant to find a new normal. After years of hard work, she's built a life she loves. It may include a job at a nightclub, weekend soccer games, and more stretch marks than she anticipated, but it's all hers, and nobody can take that away. Well, except for one person.

TK Moore, the starting wide receiver for the Denver Mustangs, dreamt his entire life about being in the NFL. His world is football, parties, and women. Maybe at one point he thought his future would play out with his high school sweetheart by his side, but Poppy is long gone and he's moved on.

When Poppy and TK cross paths in the most unlikely of places, emotions they've suppressed for years come rushing back. But with all the secrets they never told each other lying between them, they'll need more than a dating playbook to help them navigate their relationship. 


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Monday, April 1, 2019

Pat's Review: The Cliff House

The Cliff House by RaeAnne Thayne
Publisher: HQN Books (March 26, 2019)
Genre: Contemporary Romance / WF


Three women—two sisters and their aunt—and the cliff house on the northern California coast that served as a beacon to them all…

After the death of their mother, sisters Daisy and Beatriz Davenport found a home with their aunt Stella in the beautiful and welcoming town of Cape Sanctuary. They never knew all the dreams that Stella sacrificed to ensure they had everything they’d ever need. Now, with Daisy and Bea grown, it’s time for Stella to reveal the secret she’s been keeping from them—a secret that will change their family forever.

Bea thought she’d sown all her wild oats when she got pregnant far too young. The marriage that followed was rocky and not destined to last, but it gave Bea her wonderful, mature, now eleven-year-old daughter, Marisol. But just as she’s beginning to pursue a new love with an old friend, Bea’s ex-husband resurfaces and turns their lives completely upside down.

Then there’s Daisy—sensible, rational, financially prudent Daisy. She’s never taken a risk in her life—until she meets a man who makes her question everything she thought she knew about life, love and the power of taking chances.

In this heartwarming story, Stella, Bea and Daisy will discover that the path to true happiness is filled with twists and turns, but love always leads them back home. 



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Friday, March 1, 2019

Sarah's Review: The Ultimate Pi Day Party

The Ultimate Pi Day Party by Jackie Lau
Publisher: Jackie Lau Books (March 5, 2019)
Series: Baldwin Village, 1
Genre: Contemporary Romance
Dual 1st POV


If there’s one thing that might get my dad, a retired math teacher, to visit Toronto and have a real conversation with me for the first time in seventeen years, it’s a big nerdy Pi Day party. And hopefully this party—and seeing the tech company I built from nothing—will finally be enough to impress him and make him forgive me for everything I did when I was a teenager.

But it’s got to be a really great party.

That’s where Sarah Winters comes in. She owns Happy As Pie, a sweet and savory pie shop, and wants to get into catering. She makes an amazing lamb-rosemary pie, cherry pie, lemon-lime tart…you get the idea. She’ll provide the food and help me plan the party, nothing more. No matter how much time we spend together, I’m not going to fall in love with her.

At least, that’s what I tell myself… 



Where to Buy*:
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Reviews for Lau's books:








Sarah's Review: