The Forever Home by Erica James

The Forever Home by Erica James
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

Time taken to read - in and out over 4 days

Pages - 455

Publisher - HQ Stories

Source - Review copy

Blurb from Goodreads


Once a grand country house, Hope Hall is now beautiful luxury apartments and when Cassie and Nina become new neighbours, they soon become firm friends. But as perfect as life in the Cambridgeshire countryside seems, both have heartaches of their own.

Cassie is blissfully in love with Ben, but shadows from her first marriage loom large, threatening her happiness.

Nina, a widow, must confront a painful decision that will shatter her mother-in-law’s dreams.

Into their lives comes Venetia, a lively seventy-nine-year-old with a penchant for secrets – one of which is close to her heart, concealed in her handbag… As Venetia recalls her own bittersweet history with Hope Hall, the bonds between the three women are forged, revealing the strength found in friendship and the courage to confront the past.



My Review

Hope Hall is the main setting, it used to be a big giant posh house but not it is expensive upmarket apartments. The story focuses on three main characters, Cassie lives there with Ben, love of her life and her teen daughter is off to see her father. The guy who was MIA for almost all of her life but now with his new young Instagram wife and son has decided he wants to get to know her. Money, glam all so alluring for Emily, when life throws a curveball Cassie finds herself playing host to Emily and two unexpected guests who turn her life upside down. Next is Nina, still grieving the loss of her husband, keeping the art galley going and navigating daily life and her mother in laws expectations and standards, her friendship with Cassie keeps her going. Last but not least is Venetia, seventy nine years young who has just moved into Hope Hall and smuggled her cute wee dog Bon-Bon she fast makes friends with Cassie and Nina. All three have their own struggles in life and some things go from bad to worse but at least they have each other right?

Cassie is so nice but a bit of a door mat, like I get it she loves her daughter and wants to support her but the situation she finds herself in, I would absolutely kick off. Ben is super sweet and supportive and just wants to help Cassie do and sort everything and anything. Nina is also a wee bit of a doormat, she is eaten up by grief and her loss so that is why her mother in law gets away with a lot of what she does. Venetia has a past with the old house and we go back in time to reveal some of it, secrets slowly unravelling as we go.

The book covers many topics, secrets, relationships, grief, friendship, loss, love, harm to animals :/ gaslighting, manipulation, CA, recovery, personal growth. James weaves a world where even if you don't like or love certain characters you absolutely want to keep turning the pages to see where we are going next and what is coming. I had bad readers block so it took me a few days more than I normally would to read. I do enjoy James character building and the dilemmas she throws at you, I really disliked some of the characters and would have loved karma to feature more but I still enjoyed it, 3/5.

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Taming 7 by Chloe Walsh

Taming 7 by Chloe Walsh
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

Time taken to read - 3 days

Pages - 464

Publisher - Piatkus

Source - Bought

Blurb from Goodreads

My Review

Taming 7 is an epic and unforgettable love story in the international bestselling and TikTok-phenomenon The Boys of Tommen series, from Chloe Walsh.

She's the quintessential sunshine girl. He's the lovable class clown. But storm clouds are rolling in, and this Tommen boy is about to get serious.

Tommen's cheekiest lad, Gerard 'Gibsie' Gibson, has always been a comedian, but most people don't see what lurks beneath the surface. He is haunted by events of the past and he uses humor to cope, hiding his true self from the world.

Claire Biggs, the epitome of sunshine, has always loved Gibsie, her brother's friend and her favorite neighbor. She has always seen a side to him that no one else seems to notice. She becomes determined to tame her wild-at-heart childhood best friend.

When lines are crossed, it becomes unclear whether Gibsie and Claire's friendship will survive. Will it blossom into something more, or will they lose themselves in the wild?

Following characters that readers have grown to adore, Taming 7 will only expand your love for the Boys of Tommen universe.


My Review

This is book 5 in the boys of Tommen series, this book focuses centrally around Gibsie and Claire, Gibsie has been a big character since the series started. He is fiercely loyal, big mouth, a womaniser however he has always had a soft spot for Claire and Claire has always loved Gibsie. She see's Gerard, the soft kind thoughtful sensitive boy under all the filth, banter and nonsense. Claire's brother is teammate and pals with Gibsie but absolutely doesn't want him near his wee sister, understandably so. The book we get to see more of Gerard and the build up and turn in the friendship/relationship between Claire and Gibsie.

So these books have always been YA and the main characters teens but I felt books 1-4 were always more mature and depth, like the characters just seemed older. Probably because of the issues they were dealing with and how mature they were and had to be. This one absolutely had more of the YA feel, the teen angst, the attraction between the two that was acknowledged but never crossing the line. Lizzie, Claire's pal absolutely hates and I mean HATES Gibsie and whilst she is and has always been barbed and cutting this book she really got worse. As the book goes on and reveals it's secrets you get more of an understanding of why Gibsie takes so much of her crap and why Lizzie is so emotionally damaged and as Claire says, hurt people hurt people. I found Lizzie really difficult to stomach at times, her behaviour and Claire was so doormat at times and I get it it is how she is and she does get pushed to a limit but I would have snapped. Conversations would have been had and I did think oh Claire nooooo don't do that a fair few times but then need to remember that these ARE young adults, emotions and hormones are high and they don't always do the sensible thing.

I am looking forward to the next book, much as I am not a fan of Lizzie's at all I think we will hopefully get more depth into her and her behaviours. The books are mostly around the same(ish) time so I would read the previous books before this one, if nothing else they are so good and you get a better understanding for the characters/dynamics.

There is humour, daftness, annoyances, romance, teen exploration and dark dark themes, Walsh does give trigger warnings so check yours. I did enjoy this book but it just wasn't the same level as the previous four for me, so for that it is 3.5/5 for me this time. Very much looking forward to the next and I am sure we have more to come from the author.

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Road Trip with a Vampire by Jenna Levine

Road Trip With a Vampire by Jenna Levine
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Time taken to read - in and out as able over 4 days

Pages - 384

Publisher -

Source - Bought

Blurb from Goodreads

A vampire who can’t remember his past and a witch with secrets of her own hit the road in this zany, cross-country romantic comedy from beloved author Jenna Levine.

Reformed bad witch Grizelda “Zelda” Watson had hoped to never see another vampire again when she slipped away to sunny California for a fresh start. She'd grown tired of them and their nonsense ages ago. But when a vampire with amnesia unexpectedly shows up on her doorstep with a letter from her old friend Reggie, and asks for her help, she can’t say no. Of course, it doesn’t hurt that Peter Elliott is tall and gorgeous, looks great in yoga shorts, and has the kind of dark hair and surly expression Zelda’s been a sucker for for hundreds of years.

Peter isn’t completely harmless—he is fanged, after all—but he’s harmless enough, and soon becomes the only person in Zelda’s new life who knows the truth about what she is. If she can help him decipher the cryptic notes in his journal, the only clues to his lost memories, she might as well try before sending him on his way.

But when an alarming message from Peter's past coincides with a clear sign that Zelda can't keep running from her own, they embark on a cross-country road trip for answers—only to find what they're looking for in each other.


My Review

This is book three of the vampire series but they absolutely can be read as standalones because each book focuses on the individuals involved own story. Zelda is a super powerful witch with a shady past, she really lived it up over her hundreds of years however after some bad things happened she toned it down and disappeared. She hasn't spoken to her old vamp pal for a decade and now had a wee yoga retreat and rarely practices magic now which brings its own perils. Now a vampire (Peter), WITH AMNESIA no less has rocked up to her quiet wee life, sent by her auld pal as he thinks she can help. Zelda has been helped in her time of need so she kinda feels like she needs to but also Mr memory loss vamp is also hot, like HOT so agrees she does and they both head off on a road trip with just a book of his memories and a building sizzling attraction, oh my!

We get glimpses of both their pasts, Peter's brings us up to present day and the fall out. In between trying to unravel his memories, Zelda trying to deal with her magic issues and doing controlled experiments allowing for controlled bursts of magic, Peter they both try to unravel his mystery between his diary, how people seem to react to him and threatening notes from ?who.

It is an attraction slow burn romance that sparks fire, some mystery for both of them, we learn as we go and the threat from an outside party who want something from Peter but neither he nor us know. Magic, sass, amnesia, vampire, witch, road trip and building attraction with some spicey scenes, I am sad this is the last book because they are all great characters, 4/5.

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Reckless by Elsie Silvers

Reckless by Elsie Silver
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Time taken to read - 1 day

Pages - 448

Publisher -

Source - Bought

Blurb from Goodreads

He's scorching-hot trouble wrapped up in a drool-worthy package. And he's looking at her like she might be his next meal.

Theo Silva. Rowdy bull rider. Notorious ladies' man. Winter Hamilton knows exactly what it means when he eyes her like that. But she's almost free of her toxic marriage and has sworn off men entirely. So all she sees when she looks back at Theo is temptation served up with a heaping side of heartbreak. The man is hard to trust--but, it turns out, even harder to resist.

Make that impossible. Because Theo is persistent. And no matter how hard Winter tries to freeze him out, he melts her icy exterior and pulls apart all her defenses. Over a drink in a small-town bar, she finds herself blurting out her deepest, darkest secrets. Then, she spends the singular hottest night of her life with the man she never thought she'd say yes to.

He worships her body. He makes her blush. She comes alive beneath his hands. Then she tells him to forget it ever happened. She wants simple, and with him it all feels complicated.

It was supposed to be a one-time thing. A secret.

But that little plus sign is going to make this secret impossible to keep.



My Review

This is book four in the Chestnut Springs, if you haven't read the previous books please do, whilst you can absolutely read this as a standalone I think you get more from knowing the back characters. Winter has moved to Chestnut Springs after a huge upheaval in her own life, her mother and soon to be Ex husband are absolute horrors, they are so controlling and cold it is no wonder Winter is "the Ice Queen". The moment Theo claps eyes on her (chance encounter at a gas station) he knows she is different from any women who came before her. He is known as a playboy, she is known for causing her sister Summer a lot of heartache over the years. He doesn't know they are about to meet again and sparks will fly. Following one hot steamy night they agree to never talk about Winter is left with a reminder whilst Theo swans off pursuing his career or so it seems.

Ahhhh you guys, gotta admit I wasn't a huge Winter fan from previous books but man I want to give that girl a hug. She has been shunned, never picked first, never given affection by her family, pitted against Siummer as a wean, primed for following her mothers footsteps in being a doctor and then doctor Douche her icky husband. Honestly that poor woman, overcoming everything she did and now coming to terms with a community that welcomes her with open arms, physical affection, acceptance, her sister and now Theo is back and has some explaining to do. Her walls are up but her heart has never truly frozen him out but how do you forgive someone for hurting you so badly?

There is a lot of themes in this one, child loss, infertility, cheating, family issues, personal issues, learning to love, HUNNERS of spicy scenes, friendship, love and learning to love both yourself and another. As usual I always want karma for the badness and there is one more book after this so who knows. I really liked this one, I had a two hour bath completely zoned out reading this, 4.5/5 for me, defo a fave of the series!

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Good Spirits by B K Borison

Good Spirits by B.K. Borison
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Time taken to read - 1 day

Pages - 384

Publisher - HQ

Source - Bought

Blurb from Goodreads

He’s the Ghost of Christmas Past. She’s not exactly Scrooge.

Ghost of Christmas Past Nolan Callahan intends to spend this holiday haunting like every other—get in, get out, return to his otherwise aimless existence as a ghost awaiting the afterlife. But when he’s faced with Harriet York, the sweetest assignment he’s ever had, he suddenly finds himself wishing for a future.

Harriet York has no idea why she’s being haunted. She’s a good person—or, at least, she tries to be. A people pleaser to her core, she always does what’s expected of her. But as she and Nolan begin to examine her past, they discover there are threads that bind them together— and realize there might be more to moving on than expected.

With the deadline of Christmas Eve fast approaching, will they find the key to their futures in each other’s pasts? Or will they stay firmly in the present, indulging in their unexpected, spirited connection?

Filled with magic, mayhem, and cozy holiday charm


My Review

Duo character point of view, meet Harriet, people pleaser living a very quiet life and always doing what it takes to keep the peace even if it means she misses out. The last person you would expect to be getting a visit from the ghost of Christmas past, enter Nolan. Nolan also isn't what you would expect for a ghost from the Christmas past. Easy on the eye, bit grumpy, it is his job to take Harriet back to her past and get her to the stage she needs for the next ghost. And scene!

So this is a very different take on a Christmas carol, how do you even get a job as a ghost (with head offices and everything) let alone as the festive spook! As the two spend time together, navigating Harriet's memories, trying to figure out why she has been selected and what these memories mean they find themselves drawn to each. Feelings growing, times getting closer to Nolan having to get the goal of his haunting of Harriet and Harriet trying to understand and navigate Nolan, her memories, why her and her life/choices.

This is a cutesy festive read, I liked Harriet, she is a total people pleaser bless her and as we explore her life and past we understand how she is the way she is. She loves Christmas, candy canes, old beautiful things (she works in an antique shop) and the absolute opposite of who you would expect the ghost of Christmas past targeting.

I liked the way she reacted to him, I absolutely could see that being me, how do I know you are real you could be some mad burglar, she cracks me up. Nolan is a bit of a mystery I think we all enjoyed unravelling and finding more about him. As well as the wee work visits like an actual job as a ghost/Christmas past, love it and woulda liked to see more snippets from there.

Lil bit of romance, pinch of spice, lots of festiveness - first time reading this author and I would absolutely read her again. I did this as a buddy read with Niamh (tiktok) and would absolutely do another buddy read for sure. 4/5 for me this time, if you just want a read that has a wee bit of everything and Christmas centred and ghosty, this one is for you!

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Powerless by Elsie Silver

Powerless by Elsie Silver
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

Time taken to read - 1 days

Pages - 464

Publisher -

Source - Bought

Blurb from Goodreads

Two childhood friends. Two broken hearts. One impromptu road trip to get away from everything. That’s all this was supposed to be. Afterall, I’ve been living in the friend zone for years now.

But hockey heartthrob Jasper Gervais isn’t looking at me like a friend anymore. And he isn’t touching me like one either.

To his fans, he’s the handsome, talented athlete on TV. But to me he’s still the lost boy with sad eyes and a heart of gold.

The man I’ve loved in secret for years.

So when my life falls apart on my wedding day, it only makes sense that he’s the one to swoop in and save me. And when his world comes crashing down around him, I’m there to return the favor.

But the more time we spend alone, the more Jasper doesn’t feel like a friend at all. He feels like everything I’ve ever wanted and thought I could never have.

Our feelings aren’t straight forward though. They twist and turn around the pain of his past and the reality of my present.

Jasper Gervais acts like he wants me.

But after years of turning me away, he’s going to need to prove it.


My Review

I have read the other two Chestnut Springs books and to be honest you can absolutely read this as a stand alone. Sloan has always had eyes for Jasper since he came into the family and her life. HE knew she had a crush but there is a wee bit of an age gap, like she wanted him to go to prom with her and he was like college or just started his hockey career so it isn't much at all but it does sound bad. Now she is getting married and somewhere along the years Jasper's friend Sloan became a grown beautiful woman and is marrying an absolute creep.

So we get a current day, the wedding is looming, her fiance is just a horrible dude, her father really wants this marriage because it will be good for business. Sloan just wants everyone to be happy and has long since given up hope for her and Jasper. Jasper is nailing it in his hockey career, he is a net minder, he has beautiful women on his arm at all the big events, their paths are set. However on Sloan's wedding day things blow up and Jasper is there for her. After events transpire the two find themselves together on a trip and the attraction is electric, will Sloan finally get her man? Will Jasper finally allow his feelings for his bestie to surface?

So I liked this but I didn't love it, there is spice (I did find some a wee bit cringe but I know hundreds LOVED them), drama, throwbacks to how their friendship came to be. Family expectations and that recently dropped fiancé, ugh I wanted revenge and consequences. I was left lacking in a few parts. I LOVE the wee snippets from Cade, Willa and Harvey I have two books left in the series and not sure who gets these stories. Hoping for Harvey for sure and the very small snippets of Sloan's mum I liked. I think maybe because I enjoyed the first two of these books I just wanted a bit more. Like I liked it, it was absolutely making me want to read and not put it down but I just didn't love it, 3/5 from me this time. Looking forward to book four and five and I have one other of hers, I do enjoy her writing.

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The Age of Witches by Louisa Morgan

The Age of Witches by Louisa Morgan
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Time taken to read - in and out over 3 dats

Pages - 437

Publisher - Orbit

Source - Bought

Blurb from Goodreads

Louisa Morgan, author of A Secret History of Witches , returns with another riveting tale of family, witchcraft, and love that spans generations, set in Gilded Age New York and London.Harriet Bishop, descended from a long line of witches, uses magic to help women in need -- not only ordinary women, but also those with powers of their own. She must intervene when a distant cousin wields dangerous magic to change the lives of two unsuspecting young people... one of whom might just be a witch herself.Frances Allington has used her wiles and witchcraft to claw her way out of poverty and into a spectacular marriage with one of New York's wealthiest new tycoons. She is determined to secure the Allingtons' position amongst the city's elite Four Hundred families by any means necessary -- including a scheme to make a glorious aristocratic match for her headstrong and reluctant step-daughter, Annis, using the same strange power with which she ensnared Annis's father.To save Annis from this dark magic, Harriet reveals to her Frances' misuse of their shared birthright and kindles in Annis her own nascent powers. Together, Harriet and Annis must resist her stepmother's agenda, lest she -- and the dashing young lord she suspects she could come to love -- lose their freedom, and possibly their lives.


My Review

I LOVE LOVE LOVE books with witches and it has been a while I think since I read one like this. We open in 1692, a woman being charged & dealt with as a witch, her thoughts go to her daughters, both have abilities, both very different. Then the book goes to 1890 and we go between main characters Harriet, Frances & Annis. Harriet and Frances are cousins but now estranged, Frances is Annis's step mother. Coming from poverty Frances has used all her magic and knowledge to claw her way into the finer things in life, including Annis's father. She has high hopes getting into higher society and Annis is her key, a good marriage will sort her place in society, where she has always seen herself. Annis is headstrong, not your routine lady of the times, she is hands on with her horses even down to the stallions and breeding which is unbecoming for the times. When Frances dips into her craft to manipulate and bend people's will Harriet is forced to act. What happens when strong magic is used for opposing goals, good vs bad.

Oh I love a bit of magic, Harriet is very much the peoples person, making potions etc to help people. Frances however is far more self involved and uses dark magic despites the dangers, even when confronted, nothing will get in Frances way. We see love spells, manipulation, dark magic, healing, action family relationships, romance, lust and when magic comes up against magic.

I really liked this one, a wee bit of family history, a lot of magic, the authentic feel of the times, the restrictions and expectations set on women, having to toe the line and do as is told and expected of. Annis is a sweet but head strong girl, I loved the difference between the three female characters, all strong in one way or another. This was my first by this author, I have already ordered more and got some on my wishlist. I really liked how she wrote and pulled you into their world, plus hello witches and magic, 4.5/5 for me this time.

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My Vampire Plus-One by Jenna Levine

My Vampire Plus-One by Jenna Levine
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Time taken to read - 3 days

Pages - 372

Publisher -

Source - Aldi

Blurb from Goodreads

Nothing sucks more than fake dating a vampire in this paranormal romantic comedy from the USA Today bestselling author of My Roommate Is a Vampire.

Amelia Collins is by definition successful. She would even go so far as to say successfully single. But not according to her family, and she’s tired of the constant questions about her nonexistent dating life. When an invitation to yet another family wedding arrives, she decides to get everyone off her back once and for all by finding someone–anyone–to pose as her date.

After a chance encounter with Reginald Cleaves, Amelia decides he’s perfect for her purposes. He’s a bit strange, but that’s fine; it’ll discourage tough questions from her family. (And it certainly doesn’t hurt that he’s very handsome.) For centuries-old vampire Reggie, posing as her plus-one sounds like the ultimate fun. And if it helps his ruse of pretending to be human, so much the better.

As Amelia and Reggie practice their fauxmance, it becomes clear that Reggie is as loyal to her as the day is long, and that Amelia’s first impressions could not have been more wrong. Suddenly, being in a real relationship with Reggie sounds pretty fang-tastic.



My Review

I seen this on offer in Aldi for £2.99, hadn't read the author before and to be honest, they had me at vampire! Amelia is an accountant and her family are always hounding her for being single, Reginald aka Reggie is a very badly behaved flamboyant vampire who happens to be being hunted. When their paths cross an unlikely arrangement comes about. He agrees to be her plus one to a family event to get the vultures off her back after she helped him out. It all goes from there with some hilarity, silliness, romance and spice, twit twoo!

So this is book two but you can absolutely read it as a standalone. Amelia and Reggie are so very different, she is quiet and an absolute people pleaser to the point of her own discomfort and detriment. Reggie is a riot, he is being hunted for previous "crimes" committed to other vamps, he is chaos, cheeky and quite self involved. Something about Amelia brings a change though and we get to see a different side to Reggie.

We also see small snippets from his friend Frederick through correspondences, Frederick is so prim and proper (he is in book one which I am reading just now) and introduces Reggie into a form of journaling which gives us more insight into who he is. It is funny. cutesy, romantic, I liked the "crossed wires" between Amelia & Reggie, the contrast between Frederick & Reggie yet they are friends , 4/5. I am reading book one just now and will absolutely be getting book three.

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Grumpy Darling by Alexandra Moody

Grumpy Darling by Alexandra Moody
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

Time taken to read - 3 days

Pages - 400

Publisher - Electric Monkey

Source - Vine review copy

Blurb from Goodreads

Alexandra Moody's BookTok sensation continues with Darling Devils #2: Grumpy Darling — perfect for fans of Hannah Grace, clean romance, and slow-burn fire on the ice!

She's never been kissed. He's never felt this way about anyone.

Paige has ticked off everything on her senior year bucket list except one tiny thing — she’s never kissed anyone. And her best friend, Grayson Darling, is to blame.

Grayson is the school hockey team’s notorious enforcer, and he’s been scaring away any eligible bachelors that so much as look in Paige’s direction. With time running out, she demands that Grayson stop defending her honor. Instead, he’ll become her dating coach, training her to win the guy of her dreams.

But Grayson has plans of his own. He’s been in love with Paige since they were kids, and his clock is running, too. Coaching Paige might be his last chance to show her how good they’d be together. After all, practice makes perfect.


My Review

So this is book two in the Darling Devils series, you however do not need to have read book one. So this, like the first, is young adult but this one feels very young adult. So this book concentrates on Grumpy, Reed's twin brother. He has been in love with his best friend Paige forever but Paige is completely oblivious. As they get ready to finish school and head towards university or whatever they choose, Paige has a list she is working through of things she wants to do before then. The last thing on her list and soon becomes the main focus is getting her first kiss. She ends up enlisting Grumpy's help to kiss the newest recruit to the ice hockey team, their old pal. The chapters jump between Grumpy and Paiges point of views.

I really liked book one and figured this would be similar vibes which it does but because it centres around this first kiss it was very young. And I know it is young adult so it is young as is the characters but book one they seemed older, like the dramas and behaviours. This time round it was very high school, the pursuit of the first kiss, the crushes and all the drama's surrounding the situations, party, drink, embarrassment etc.

The banter and ribbing of the boys to each other did make me laugh, Paige and Grumpy are cute but it just seemed to take forever, a bit of a slow burn and I did find my self exasperated at times. That being said it is a cute read, poolside for sure, 3.5/5 for me. I would read the next in the series and check out her other books!

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Rival Darling by Alexandra Moody

Rival Darling by Alexandra Moody
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Time taken to read - < 3 days

Pages - 416

Publisher - Electric monkey

Source - Bought

Blurb from Goodreads


When seventeen-year-old Violet is left heartbroken by the captain of her school's ice hockey team, she vows to never date a jock again. But, in an attempt to prove she's moved on, she turns to the most unlikely person—her ex's biggest rival, the notorious captain of the Ransom Devils.

Reed Darling is gorgeous, mysterious and intimidating, both on and off the ice. Wild rumors constantly circulate about him, and the only thing people love to talk about more than his hockey skills are his exploits as a ruthless heartbreaker and bad boy. Who better to serve as Violet's fake boyfriend until her ex gets the message, right?

But despite the intense rivalry between their two schools and Reed's infamous reputation, Violet soon starts to wonder if there's more to him than the gossip suggests. And while she tries her best to control their 'relationship' with a list of strict guidelines, Reed has other ideas. He's set his sights on winning her over and is determined to show Violet he's not the guy everyone thinks he is.

She should have known better than to make a deal with a devil because this one is going to break all her rules.

Rival Darling is a YA hockey rom-com with a HEA and no cliffhanger and the first in the Darling Devils series.


My Review

Hey so this is my first dance with this author. Young adult isn't a genre I pick up too much, I don't ow why because the ones I have read I have liked. I got book two sent for review so bought this one to read first, absolutely can be a standalone to be fair. Violet is living in a small town with her uncle whilst her mum pursues her career again! Let down by her boyfriend, super spoiled, head of the school ice hockey team, comes from money and cocky as she finds herself stranded and at the mercy of bad boy Reed Darling she reluctantly accepts his help. He is captain of the rival ice hockey team, his history and reputation is everything she hates about Jocks, more so now her boyfriend has betrayed her. She vows never again but needs to keep the ex off her case so enters into a fake relationship with Reed, she will keep the ex at bay and he can keep all the puck bunnies away and focus on his game. The only problem is Reed really likes Violet and knows she isn't interested in another sports guy, by doing this he can get closer.

This could have been a college set book and sometimes reading it I completely forgot they were high school, the parties, the ice hockey (we don't have that in schools here). The way the rivalry between the teams/sides of town. Violet is sweet but girl some of the stuff she does, but I get wanting to fit in and really missing her mum who always promises to call and consistently lets her down. She, the mother has a lot to answer for! The issues she has with dating a sports guy, also comes from past/parents and typical when she breaks that rule her boyfriend is a total rat.

It is a good wee reality break, poolside read if you will, I really liked the family bonds with the Darlings. His mum and dad should have their own books, they seem like really nice people, it makes you wonder how so many of the rumours got so easily swallowed in the town. Like Reed, fair enough but the truths that come out vs lies, how you manage to keep anything private in a small town is almost non existent but rumours are also rife and easily accepted in small towns.

The story is very cutesy, fake romance but they both clearly like each other, very cute to see developing, a few irritations but they are teens so totally normal, 4/5 for me. Nice we dip from adult reality and book two at the ready which I believe will be centred around Reed's brother and the object of his affections.

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What If I Never Get Over You by Paige Toon

What If I Never Get Over You by Paige Toon
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Time taken to read - 2.5 days

Pages - 416

Publisher - Penguin

Source - Netgalley and bought a copy

Blurb from Goodreads

One Day meets a contemporary Bridgerton in this high-drama, escapist wonder of a love story, Paige Toon’s best yet.

Three days to fall in love. Six years to try to forget.

Ellie didn’t expect to fall in love while interrailing through Europe. But she also didn’t expect to meet a man like Ash. Three blistering days in Lisbon is all it takes to form an unforgettable connection—a bond deep enough for them to scrap their itineraries and plan to meet again in Spain. But Ellie arrives late, and Ash is nowhere to be found.

Six years later, Ellie has landed her dream job working as a gardener for a viscount and viscountess on their sprawling five-hundred-year-old estate in Wales. She finds peace amongst the towering topiary hedges and colorful gardens, but her idyll is shattered when Ash crashes back into her life. And when it becomes clear why he didn’t show in Madrid, her heart breaks anew—for what the truth means for her, and for his fate.

But they have never been able to resist each another, and when the sparks of their attraction fly, Ellie’s life will catch flame. She will have to make a choice.


My Review

Ellie is interrailing (I think of it as backpacking but not sure if there is an actual difference), trying to deal with stuff and personal growth. When she meets Ash she has no intention of dating, she is dealing with a whole host of stuff but then Ash, beautiful Ash and her just click. For three days in Lisbon love blossoms and they make plans to meet and travel together. Typical something happens and they don't meet, she is late and he isn't there when she arrives. Six years of struggling with the loss of what could have been, her family expectations and everything her and Ash had she does something for herself and gets her dream job. Just as everything is going perfectly Ash crashes back into her life, everything is turned upside down, there is a lot of hurt, questions and barriers you could not begin to imagine but what they felt all those years ago still burns, in them both. What do you do when you are pulled together like moths to a flame but everything is stacked against you?

Aw guys, so I have read a Paige Toon ages ago (I checked Goodreads, 2012!) so when we got the chance to read this one, clickity click! I am a sucker for a romance and who hasn't had either a holiday romance or the old one who got away. Coupled with that you have so many family issues, on both the main characters, Ash and Ellie, parental expectations, keeping up with the Joneses . With this one we have a wee bit of classism, societal divides for example the gardeners at Ellies new job, they all work at this beautiful prestigious 500 year old estate but there is a tone between other hired staff and the gardeners.

When Elli and Ash finally find each other again, especially after six long years there is so much to unwrap! I loved the will they won't they, the barriers flung between them, the shady attitude especially exhibited by Ash's dad and one of the help at the house. People can be absolute bangers, snobbery and how folk treat each other, even Ellie's parent's, despite not being in the book much their impact they have on Ellie is huge and far reaching.

A tale of love, near misses, societal barriers, travel, family, relationships, friendships and following your heart and dreams. At one point I had goosebumps, a few moments of NOOOOOO what are you doing! As I said I have only read one of Toon's books before this and will be getting more, 4.5/5 from us.

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Iron Flame by Rebecca Yarros

Iron Flame by Rebecca Yarros
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Time taken to read - in and out as able over 5 days

Pages - 640

Publisher -

Source - Bought

Blurb from Goodreads

“The first year is when some of us lose our lives. The second year is when the rest of us lose our humanity.” —Xaden Riorson

Everyone expected Violet Sorrengail to die during her first year at Basgiath War College—Violet included. But Threshing was only the first impossible test meant to weed out the weak-willed, the unworthy, and the unlucky.

Now the real training begins, and Violet’s already wondering how she’ll get through. It’s not just that it’s grueling and maliciously brutal, or even that it’s designed to stretch the riders’ capacity for pain beyond endurance. It’s the new vice commandant, who’s made it his personal mission to teach Violet exactly how powerless she is–unless she betrays the man she loves.

Although Violet’s body might be weaker and frailer than everyone else’s, she still has her wits—and a will of iron. And leadership is forgetting the most important lesson Basgiath has taught her: Dragon riders make their own rules.

But a determination to survive won’t be enough this year.

Because Violet knows the real secret hidden for centuries at Basgiath War College—and nothing, not even dragon fire, may be enough to save them in the end.



My Review

If you haven't read book one, do it then read this one as it is one of those series you absolutely need to know the history and backstory. So after the big reveal Violet and co need to appear as if all is normal and go back to school where everything kicks off. One teacher (lieutenant whatever his title is I call him teacher) clearly has something against Violet and pushes her through her paces. We jump between Violet and Xaden, Violet and co training, the new first years in the position Violet was and repercussions from that which passed in book one.

There is spicy scenes between Violent and Xaden, dragon dramas - I do LOVE Tairn's dry wit/humour and Andarna really comes into her own personality in this one, albeit in short parts. There is a lot of angst and back and forth between Violet and Xaden, trust issues (like more so than book one and a very different theme) which I think some folk will find a bit long in places.

It does have a lot of action, slow in some parts but I think if you are a huge fan you will be happy enough. Spice, emotive, jealousy, war threats and trials as with book one with threats of death if you fail (again like book one) but Violet and co are second years overseeing the first year hopefuls. Then having to do their own trials. Shady characters, some dodgy behaviours a hint of redemption maybe for some? Dun dun dun, 4/5 for us for this one, got book 3 on standby!

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Swimming to Lundy by Amanda Prowse

Swimming to Lundy by Amanda Prowse
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Time taken to read - 1 day

Pages - 408

Publisher - Lake Union

Source - Arc

Blurb from Goodreads

A poignant and inspiring story from million-copy bestselling author Amanda Prowse about how it’s never too late to follow your dreams and find your way back to happiness.

Tawrie Gunn feels stuck. She’s spent her whole life in the same seaside town with her beloved Nana and grief-stricken mum, all of them still reeling in different ways from the tragic loss of Tawrie’s dad at sea. Desperate for a change, she challenges herself to take up wild swimming—every morning, no excuses, from March till September.

Daring to take the plunge with the ‘Peacock Swimmers’, Tawrie feels alive in a way she’s never known. Suddenly it seems she might be able to step outside her comfort zone after all and let life surprise her—perhaps even dream of a future beyond the shores of Ilfracombe? Especially when, one day, she spots a man in a pink linen shirt who seems as eager for a new start as she does.

But it turns out taking risks on land is a little different from wading into the sea. Can Tawrie face her fears head-on and find her way to happiness? She knows it’s never too late to pursue your hopes and dreams, but it might be easier said than done…



My Review

Two timelines, two main character threads. Tawrie, present day (well 2023) and Harriet 2002, we go back and forth between the two, very different ladies. Tawrie is stuck inher small town, with her gran and mum, mum is an alcoholic, she works for her cousin in a cafe and remains the solid in her little world. She takes up wild swimming and meets a fabulous older couple and a new person who makes her feel things she has never felt and opens up her life, heart, mind and to possibilities outside her tiny patch/routine with some life changing consequences. Harriet and her family have moved to escape that which turned their world upside down, slowly with each chapter we find out what that is and how Harriet will cope, did she make the right decision and can you ever outrun your problems?

The story has huge family themes, Tawrie is the only child and completely locked to her routine/family. Harriet is completely family orientated and struggling to come to terms with a revelation that rocked her family. Both timelines feature similar themes, love, family, sacrifice, putting your family first, their needs before yours and infidelity pops up too. Tawrie is on a journey, taking up wild swimming and finding a freedom she hasn't had before but also bringing her "closer" to her dad. Harriet takes solace in writing a diary to try and work through her thoughts/feelings and steps to getting through that which has threatened her family life and happiness.

Prowse has a way of creating characters you find yourself either drawn to or empathising with, they have the same issues we do or loved ones have went through. Alcoholism, loss, feelings of being trapped but wanting to be there for your family and do what is right. Personal growth, achievements, small town life, scandal, struggles within every day life. FYI even though the cover has shark fins I can confirm there are no sharks in the book lol. Pages turning, relatively short chapters which you know I love, drama, scandal, love, hope, family bonds, it has a bit of something for everyone. This isn't my first dance with this author, I have quite a few on my tbrm and more I need to buy. When you want to step out of your own life and into others for a wee bit Prowse is always a good shout, 4/5 for me.

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A Thousand Boy Kisses by Tillie Cole

A Thousand Boy Kisses by Tillie Cole
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Time taken to read - 1 day

Pages - 316

Publisher - Penguin

Source - Bought

Blurb from Goodreads

One kiss lasts a moment. But a thousand kisses can last a lifetime. One boy. One girl. A bond that is forged in an instant and cherished for a decade. A bond that neither time nor distance can break. A bond that will last forever. Or so they believe.

When seventeen-year-old Rune Kristiansen returns from his native Norway to the sleepy town of Blossom Grove, Georgia, where he befriended Poppy Litchfield as a child, he has just one thing on his mind. Why did the girl who was one half of his soul, who promised to wait faithfully for his return, cut him off without a word of explanation? Rune's heart was broken two years ago when Poppy fell silent. When he discovers the truth, he finds that the greatest heartache is yet to come.

A stand-alone young adult tearjerker romance, recommended for ages fourteen and up.



My Review

I kept seeing everyone talking about this and how it ripped their heart out, I don't cry much so figured I would check it out, absolute FOMO. Well the problem is, from the blurb you don't really know why folk had the emotionals and I wasn't expecting it, even from the first chapter we get a sad emotive slap in the kisser. The book takes us through Poppy and Rune meeting as kids, their friendship and relationship blossoming and then as teenagers after a sudden and brutal period of them being cut off for two years, the awkward reunion because Rune isn't the boy Poppy remembers.

Young love guys, you remember being a teen and having that wild emotions, first love, hormones so it has all that but takes a deeper level. It is hard to review why the book is so emotive without giving spoilers and we don't do that here.

Lets just say depending on your lived experiences I think it packs a harder punch and it was a bit close to home for me, I wasn't expecting it so a bit of a throat punch. A few parts of it I was reading with that painful lump in my throat & did end up with wet eyes once or twice (we don't cry here).

Young love, relationships, heartache, health issues, bad boy behaviours, family, friendship and a sweet romantic gestures but also some questionable behaviours. One thing I will say, after reading this book I will never look at a Cherry Blossom tree the same way again and without thinking about this book, 4/5.

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The Christmas she married the playboy & The Greek Secret she carries

The Christmas She Married The Playboy / The Greek Secret She Carries: The Christmas She Married the Playboy (Christmas with a Billionaire) / The Greek ... Diamond Inheritance) by Louise Fuller
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

Time taken to read - 3 days

Pages - 384

Publisher - Mills & Boon

Source - Bought

Blurb from Goodreads

Their convenient winter wedding!

To save her pristine image from scandal, Santina must marry notorious playboy Louis. But after a past betrayal, it’s not gossip she fears…it’s the burning attraction that will make resisting her convenient husband impossible.

One scandalous Greek night…

Months after their passionate fling, rumours bring enigmatic Theron to Summer’s doorstep – to discover a pregnancy as obvious as the still-sizzling desire between them! He will give their child the family unit he lost. But Summer’s trust isn’t so easily won…


My Review

Mills and Boon if you have read them you know exactly what you are getting. This book is a two in one. Book one, meet Santina, pristine image and trying to make it in the professional world of ice skating. She has zero interest in the opposite sex especially after having her heart broken and crushed by her ex. Meet Louis, money galore, bad boy reputation, womaniser and often in the press for his antics, so much so it is impacting his work life. When a chance encounter brings them together and the press catch a juicy story the two have to work together to try and salvage both their images.

Story two sees Summer, naive going from university and a mostly sheltered life to trying to find her real father and helping her sick mother. She has a passionate tryst with Theron ending in disaster. He shows up again in her life trying to make amends for his behaviour and assumptions but is it too late.

The first story I did like better and it was very reminiscing of what I remember Mills and Boon to be but with a modern day theme to it. Good girl, bad boy, money, reputation, hard exterior (for both) and absolute attraction they both try to deny and it goes from there.

Book two, I think the whole Greek man and behaviours, for me, didn't work. Instead of passion and sense of wanting to do the right thing as is expected of him I found him to be controlling and really negative behaviours. Summer also came across weak and annoying rather than damsel in distress but also doing the right thing by her family. Maybe if I had read the the other way around I may have taken to it more? Both good stories but I really wasn't a fan of either of the main characters in the second book therefor overall it is 3/5 for me.

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Claimed by J R Ward

Claimed by J.R. Ward
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Time taken to read - 1 day

Pages - 509

Publisher - Piatkus

Source - Bought

Blurb from Goodreads

A heart-pounding new series set in the Black Dagger Brotherhood world, with a scientist fighting to save the timber wolves—and getting caught in a deadly trap herself...

Lydia Susi is passionate about protecting wolves in their natural habitat. When a hotel chain develops a tract of land next to the preserve, Lydia is one of the most vocal opponents of the project—and becomes a target.

One night, a shadowy figure threatens Lydia’s life in the forest, and a new hire at the Wolf Study Project comes from out of nowhere to save her. Daniel Joseph is both mysterious, and someone she intrinsically wants to trust. But is he hiding something?

As the stakes get higher, and one of Lydia’s colleagues is murdered, she must decide how far she will go to protect the wolves. Then a shocking revelation about Daniel challenges Lydia’s reality in ways she could never have predicted. Some fates demand courage, others require even more, with no guarantees. Is she destined to have true love... or will a soul-shattering loss ruin her forever?


My Review

This is book one of a trilogy, Lydia is all about protecting the wolves in their natural environment and a new hotel/chain is putting everything at risk. Daniel, a drifter appears at the perfect time looking for a job. Someone has poisoned a wolf, money at the facility is low and Lydia will do just about anything for the wolves safety. Both Lydia and Daniel are mysterious and or aloof in their own way and it isn't long before sparks fly between the two and their attraction has more pull that what they are hiding.

So the book is from the Lair of the Wolven series and we have snippets of chapters going to the Blackdagger Brotherhood characters, specifically Xhex, dreams and freaking out, then back to Lydia with no seeming reason or cross over, I am hoping with book two we will have more clarity and info (I have book two and three at the ready).

There is murder, intrigue, dodgy behaviour, skulduggery, stalking and wolves of course. I would say it is a slow burner at times but when you get to the end it all comes together and absolutely needs book two to be read asap.

There is some spice, intrigue, wolfy interactions, secrets, danger and all is not what it seems, like even the folk Lydia has worked with and it being a small town there are secrets and reveals to be had. I am very much looking forward to book two and seeing what is next in store, a good foundation book setting up for the rest, 4/5.

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Interview with Author Robyn Kerr & competition

Welcome Robyn and thanks so much for taking time out of your busy schedule and gabbing with us about your debut novel "Failing Adult".

1. Tell us a bit about Robyn, who is Robyn?

Where do I start with the story of me? I suppose I’m definitely a wanderer, I love to travel and live in different countries and places. Usually either by working in hospitality or as a live in nanny. I’ve always had a great love and appreciation for Tv and film, mainly romantic or comedy focused pieces. I consider myself to be adventurous, I’ll try anything once and love doing new things. Things people would say about me, would be, I’m loud, with an even louder laugh, I’m funny, silly and hopefully, a good, kind person. Becoming a writer has certainly been a surprise, not only to me but everyone that knows me. I never did well in school and it came as no surprise when I was diagnosed as dyslexic.

2. How did the idea hit you wanted to write a book?

Well actually, I wanted and still want to be script writer. I started writing scripts when I lived in the states for two years, then when I came home I decided to gain more knowledge and skills by going to university. I started my creative writing degree four years ago, as a mature student. During my second year, I found my love of prose and gained the confidence within myself, to believe that I could write a book. So I did.

3. What research did you do?

My lectures taught me a lot about structure, storytelling and things to avoid. In regards to research for the book, that mainly came to personal experience and Google helped.

4. Are any of you characters based on real people or events?

Yes, and no. The supporting characters definitely have traits of some of my friends and family, but no one is directly based off anyone. Some of the smaller events are true events that happened me or my friends or both of us.

5. Is there going to be more in the series?

This is the first in a four part series, the first following Dotty, in her pursuit of personal growth and finding love. The second will follow her best friend and roommate, as she attempts to do the same.

6. Tell us about your publishing journey?

Publishing in any form is not for the faint hearted, it can be daunting, terrifying and all consuming. I decided very early on to not send my book to agents or publishers, but instead to self publish, well not completely self publish, I paid a three party to edit, proofread, design my front cover and format for me. Once that was all finished, I was on my own and the marketing began.

7. What advice would you give to aspiring writers?

It sounds so clique but you need to just start writing. Even if the first few thousand words are utter rubbish, it’s the only way to learn and grow. Always remember that your work won’t be for everyone, take the praise and criticism. Your writing will find its audience and whatever you produce, be proud of it, writing isn’t easy and takes a lot of your heart and soul.

8. What are the pros and cons of writing a novel?

The pros are:
1. The unbelievable sense of pride and happiness finishing it and holding it in your hands.
2. Having even one person love your work.
3. Seeing your characters and story on black and white, instead of just in your head.

The cons are:
1. The time it takes.
2. The imposter feeling you get.
3. The fear everyone will hate it.

9. Do you have any quirks or rituals or lucky items/must haves?

I love a post it note and they are so handy in keeping track of things. For some reason, when I write, I need the Tv on. Often playing reruns of my favourite shows like Frasier or Schitt’s creek.

10. What is next for Robyn?

Currently writing the second book, which will hopefully be finished by March and released by summer. I also hope to in the next few years, be working in the Tv and film industry, you have to dream big after all. I also want to add a huge thank you to everyone that has supported and championed me so far, it means the absolute world to me.

We are huge supporters of authors where able and Robyn is a mate. Whilst I haven't yet read her book *gasp* I know I know, I have an ebook copy and a treebook copy, I recommend it all the time. To those who have read it, friends, sil, sister they all recommend it and looking forward to the next so I need to get a move on and read it myself. Anyways, we are doing a giveaway for x1 ebook copy of the book. Open UK ONLY as the ebook will come directly from Amazon to your kindle and Amazon won't allow me to gift outside my own country. In order to enter please use the Rafflecopter below, good luck and as always thanks for entering/sharing/supporting.


a Rafflecopter giveaway

The Sinner by J R Ward

The Sinner by J.R. Ward
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

Time taken to read - 3 days (in and out)

Pages - 512

Publisher - Piatkus

Source - Bought

Blurb from Goodreads

A sinner’s only hope is true love in this passionate new novel in J.R. Ward’s #1 New York Times bestselling Black Dagger Brotherhood series.

Syn has kept his side hustle as a mercenary a secret from the Black Dagger Brotherhood. When he takes another hit job, he not only crosses the path of the vampire race’s new enemy, but also that of a half-breed in danger of dying during her transition. Jo Early has no idea what her true nature is, and when a mysterious man appears out of the darkness, she is torn between their erotic connection and the sense that something is very wrong.

Fate anointed Butch O’Neal as the Dhestroyer, the fulfiller of the prophecy that foresees the end of the Omega. As the war with the Lessening Society comes to a head, Butch gets an unexpected ally in Syn. But can he trust the male—or is the warrior with the bad past a deadly complication?

With time running out, Jo gets swept up in the fighting and must join with Syn and the Brotherhood against true evil. In the end, will love true prevail...or was the prophecy wrong all along?


My Review

I don't really remember Syn too much in previous books but I do remember Jo Early, the reporter who with another co worker where trying to cover the vampires/destruction when the Lessers and vamps battled. Turns out Jo is a half breed and on the cusp on transition and Syn is brought into her life as a job and Syn has no idea what lies ahead for him. So Syn is a bit rogue, whilst him and his fighters have taken oath to the king he is still a bit nomad, a loner, wild, a killer. He has had a horrific past and not the best of relations with the other sex. We hear a bit about his past and know he is a hitman, man, woman it doesn't matter he is happy to take folk out. So when Jo comes into his path he is not ready for the impact she has on him nor what it can mean for him.

We also get an unexpected pop up from Covet, book one in another series by this author, I think I need to read the rest of them for fear of spoilers in the next in this series, plus I did enjoy that one. Butch features a wee bit more and I feel we haven't seen a whole lot of the Lessers nor the Omega in the last few so it was nice to get a bit more of that side from the series.

As usual there is graphic adult scenes of an adult nature so not for the easy to blush or quick to be mortified, this is book 18 so you should know by now what you are getting. The book has a glossary at the start which I think is a fantastic idea to keep up with the terminology, no matter how long you have been reading the series it is good to have them. Murder, love, friendships, a wee bit almost gaslighting, certainly I was a bit annoyed at some of the behaviours of some but from the beginning you know he has a dark/dangerous/aggressive side. Always nice to see progression from the stories and I think with this one Ward has injected a new lease of life into the series and look forward to seeing where it goes, 3.5/5 from me.

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A Rogue's Rules for Seduction by Eva Leigh

A Rogue's Rules for Seduction by Eva Leigh
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

Time taken to read - 1 day

Pages - 349

Publisher - Mills and Boon

Source - Review copy

Blurb from Goodreads

In USA Today bestselling author Eva Leigh’s final Last Chance Scoundrels novel, a young lady and her former betrothed get a second chance at love when they’re stranded at a remote country house…

After Dominic Kilburn left Lady Willa Ransom at the altar, she vowed never to reveal how badly she was hurt. Following a year abroad, Willa wants to move on with her life, so she accepts an invitation to a house party. She’s determined to leave her humiliation behind, as well as the scorching attraction she still feels for the man who jilted her.

When dark secrets from his past surfaced right before his wedding, Dom knew he didn’t deserve Willa. So, he bolted. But he still burns for the only woman who ever claimed his heart. To escape the memories of all he lost, Dom heads to a friend’s estate on an isolated Scottish isle. Yet one of the other guests is the very woman who haunts his every thought and makes him wish for the impossible.

Thrown together by well-meaning family and friends, Willa and Dom try to resist the fiery pull between them. Soon the line between love and loathing begins to blur, and their attraction explodes. But Dom’s past lurks on the edge of their rekindled passion and Willa fears she’ll be devastated all over again. Can these star-crossed lovers find their happily ever after, or will everything detonate a second time?


My Review

Willa and Dom have a past, they broke up badly and haven't seen each other since. They have a linked group of friends/family and now find themselves thrust together on a deserted island for an event. Willa and Dom are in a world hurt, Willa after being jilted at the alter, Dom by causing her so much pain and leaving her as he did. Now there isn't anywhere to run and both are confronted with the fact that underneath the anger (her) and shame (him) they both still are very attracted to each other and have unresolved feelings.

I am a bit conflicted, I really liked the writing and scene setting but some things I liked and thought worked well and somethings really ripped my knitting. Willa absolutely reacted how one would expect after being left at the alter. I struggled with her brothers and her response to them in everything, I would absolutely have done my nut! Her anger/humiliation I think anyone can empathise with but Leigh gives us a bit more of Dom and despite the terrible thing he done he seems like a genuinely nice guy, if you can get past leaving the love of your life at the alter. The build up, scenes, interactions, I think Mills and Boon have certainly branched out over the years and this book gives a bit more bite with the story.

As with the other books, not for the easily offended, there is sex scenes, smut, dirty talk and the C word, I have to admit I cringed a wee bit at some of their scenes/smut dialogue but I know others will love it, 3/5.

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By Any Other Name by Lauren Kate

By Any Other Name by Lauren Kate
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Time taken to read - 1 day

Pages - 304

Publisher - Penguin

Source - Review copy

Blurb from Goodreads

What she doesn’t know about love could fill a book.

With a successful career as a romance editor, and an engagement to a man who checks off all ninety-nine boxes on her carefully curated list, Lanie’s more than good. She’s killing it. Then she’s given the opportunity of a lifetime: to work with world-renowned author and her biggest inspiration in love and life—the Noa Callaway. All Lanie has to do is cure Noa’s writer’s block and she’ll get the promotion she’s always dreamed of. Simple, right?

But there’s a reason no one has ever seen or spoken to the mysterious Noa Calloway. And that reason will rock Lanie’s world. It will call into question everything she thought she knew. When she finally tosses her ninety-nine expectations to the wind, Lanie may just discover that love By Any Other Name can still be as sweet.



My Review

Imagine getting a coveted position working with an author you have loved for years, her work has inspired so much of your own life choices. The author in question, Noa, has writers block and Lanie needs to do everything she can to lift it, get the book completed and delivered on time or risk losing her own job. However Noa doesn't meet in person, attend events nor see anyone outside the top of the business and there is a reason for it, one Lanie may not quite be ready for.

Lanie is engaged to be married, her whole relationship ideals comes from one of Noa's books and the legacy/relationship/advice with her mum who had passed away. The book is multidimensional, shock, secret, romance, personal growth and honourable mention for the small passing characters in the park, an elderly couple who despite being almost reference characters come to have big impact on others.

It is absolutely one of those books you can just slip into and log off for a few hours and just immerse in the characters and dramas in the story, 4/5 for me this time. This was my first book by this author, I will be looking for her other works.

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