“The hard things make the victory and the success so much better, so much more beautiful.”
Rachel Higginson is another new to me author who made their way on my top favorites list of 2018. I’ve seen a bit of a buzz with this book in groups I’m in, and even though the title didn’t appeal to me, I picked it up. I am so glad I did! Trailer Park Heart is an emotional, sweet, and somewhat angsty enemies to lovers story and I couldn’t have loved it more!
Ruby Dawson grew up in a trailer park, but she’s determined to get out. She’s graduated high school and is starting college in the fall. Everything is going according to plan. Ruby gets this bright idea to get rid of her virginity before she goes. One night, and her life is forever changed. She’s pregnant, and suddenly she finds all of her future plans have been crushed. Years later, she’s working in town, living with her mom and son in the same old trailer. And she wouldn’t change a thing. Because her son Max is her world.
Levi Cole is not from the trailer park. The opposite of that, actually. He was Ruby’s rival in high school and he hasn’t been home since graduation. His brother died tragically and he’s stayed away ever since. It’s been seven long years. When Levi and Ruby meet again, sparks fly and their back and forth banter is in full force. Ruby has no idea how Levi has always felt for her, and she’s starting to realize she feels the same. She just has no idea what to do with those feelings. She fights it at first, but Levi is very convincing.
“You’ve been in my bones since we were kids, Dawson. I get that our lives have gone in different directions, but don’t you think you should at least give us a shot?”
You see, Ruby has been holding on to a secret for seven years. One she’s not told a soul about. The paternity of her son. And she doesn’t know how Levi will react to this news. Will it bring them closer together or break everything they’ve tried to build?
One of the things I loved most about this book was Levi’s relationship with Ruby’s son, Max. Even though Levi wasn’t his father, he was so great with him and always made him feel special. Sigh. I’m a sucker for a single parent book. This was also a very slow burn romance, which I love. It took this couple a long time to get together, but once they did… well, it was worth the wait!
If you love a book with a strong heroine, a swoony hero, and a cute kid, pick this one up! There was a lot of build up and push and pull, but it made the ending that much sweeter. I loved it!
“I’ve been yours. For as long as I can remember. It was true when we were kids. It was true the second I walked back into town and realized you were still here and still single. And it’s still true. It will always be true.”
Poet X is lyrical, deep, and meaningful. I loved the way this book was written. It had a fantastic flow, the poetry was poignant, and Xiomara5 stars!!
Poet X is lyrical, deep, and meaningful. I loved the way this book was written. It had a fantastic flow, the poetry was poignant, and Xiomara's voice and character really shined through.
This is a story about a teenage girl who lives in Harlem. She lives with her twin brother, her father, and an overly religious mother. Xiomara isn't allowed to have a voice in that house. Her mother wants her to be close to a god she's not sure she believes in and feels that should be the focus of her life. Boys, poetry, anything meaningful to X is forbidden.
Her life is a struggle. Xiomara has a curvy body and at just 15, she is leered at by boys. She only has one boy she likes, but she can't really be with him the way she wants to be (overprotective mother). Xiomara's outlet is writing. Her poetry gets her through everything she goes through. Her words are powerful. And with those words, she not only expresses herself, but just maybe starts to change minds and hearts that she felt were impossible to change.
I listened to the audio version of this book, which was narrated by the author. Elizabeth Acevedo not only wrote a moving story, but gave a moving performance narrating it. If you're going to read this book, I can't recommend listening to it enough. I feel like I got more out of it hearing Xiomara's story and listening to her read her poems.
This is very much a coming of age story about a girl who doesn't feel like she fits. I loved that her entire story was told through slam poetry and it had such a great message. Poet X is a unique story I feel will stay with me. I can't wait to read more from this author....more
Mariana Zapata is one of my favorite authors. I've loved most of her books, but her last few haven't been five star favorites for me. That fact made Luna and the Lie that much sweeter. I have to say, this is one of her very best books and Rip is an amazing hero! I loved Luna as well. Together... they were just everything! It's been a while since I've had an epic 5+ star read from this author and this book really hit the spot for me!
Luna is the only woman working in the auto shop she paints at. She has a good life, three sisters she loves and cares for, a few good friends, and is trying to be as content as she can be. Her life hasn't always been good, but she doesn't like to focus on that. One of the things she loves the most is going to work. She loves the guys there, the owner is like a father to her, then there is her other boss. Ripley. Luna has had a little crush on Rip for as long as she can remember. He's a little on the hard side, not so chatty, and keeps to himself. But he trusts Luna with his secrets and even though he can be hard on her and they have a lot of back and forth banter, you can tell deep down he likes her. Maybe even more...
“What am I going to be doing tomorrow?” He was still walking backward as he told me, “I’m bringing you lunch tomorrow too.” What was happening? What was happening? “You don’t have to bribe me to be your friend! I’ve been waiting for this for years, Rip,” I hollered after him, ignoring the way my stomach had just felt like we’d started a descent from a steep roller-coaster ride. I’d swear I heard a chuckle as he answered, “Get to fucking work and come get me if you’ve got time to help me out.” We were friends. We were.
Luna and the Lie was long, but it didn't feel long. I binge read it in less than 24 hours. It's such a great feeling to be that all consumed by a book that there is nothing you'd rather do that read. I loved everything about this book. There isn't anything I would change. Aiden Graves is one of my top book boys of all time, and I loved Rip the same as him. That is really saying a lot. Mariana writes the best broody heroes. She has a formula, and it works so well. Luna and Rip have both been through so much in their lives. I loved how positive Luna always tried to be. It was refreshing to see. These two are a great match. I loved them together so much. Obviously it took a while for them to really be together, but once they were- it was well worth the wait. (view spoiler)[ My favorite part… “Rip, you had no right to do that—” “I had every right to.” He could say those words to me every day for the rest of my life and they wouldn’t get old. He proved it when he leaned forward and slid me the most heated look I might ever see in my life. “Yeah, I did, Luna. You wanna go out to eat? I’ll take you. You wanna go out and get a Sprite? Tell me. You want to watch a fucking movie? I’ll take you to the goddamn movies. If you want to go to beat the shit out of your cousin again, I’ll fucking take you. You want to meet someone to be your best friend and your fucking partner? I’m right fucking here, baby girl.”(hide spoiler)]
“You kill me, girl,” he murmured in the roughest voice I’d ever heard. “I swear to God, you’re a fucking puzzle I thought was all in the box, but every damn day I find a piece or two hidden all over the place.”
Mariana Zapata is the queen of slow burn romance. This was the most delicious slow burn/forbidden love story. It also had a bit of enemies to lovers/friends to lovers- pretty much EVERYTHING I love! It was sweet, funny, heartbreaking, heartwarming, and gave me all the feels. I can't recommend it enough. Something just got bumped right out of my top 10 favorites for the year because this book is towards the top of that list! A must read!!!!
“You’re too young. You’re too sweet. You’re too good for me. But I’m done standing around trying to suck up all the goodness you make me feel without you even knowing, Luna. You are my girl. Just you. Nobody else ever has or will be.”
All We Want… wow. This one hit me right in the feels. I laughed, I cried, and I loved it so much. Sometimes the books you relate to the most are the ones that hit you the hardest. I’ve always loved Luke and Tessa as a couple. They love each other fiercely and even through this struggle, they have each others backs.
“This will test you in ways you haven’t been tested before.”
Month after month, Tessa and Luke are disappointed with the fact that Tessa’s not pregnant. She wants a baby more than anything and it seems it’s happening to everyone else around her. And the most frustrating thing? Nothing is wrong. How can you fix something when you don’t know what’s broken?
Infertility can test a couple like nothing else can. My husband and I have been married for 12 years and struggled with it for 6 of those years. I always say, if we’ve made it through all the treatments, failed attempts, and insanely high emotions, we can make it through anything. And I truly believe that. What I loved most about this book was Tessa and Luke’s love and commitment to each other. Of course they wanted to do whatever they had to do to have a baby, but deep down, they were what each other needed and when it came down to it, they were enough for one another.
Being in this together means everything.
J. Daniels really brought the feels with this book. I was in tears from almost the start. But I also laughed and smiled a lot. Tessa and Luke are a fun couple and I love their banter. And it’s also steamy. Seriously, this was the perfect little novella. I almost never rate novella’s 5 stars because it always feels like something is missing, but this one was fantastic. The writing, the story, the emotions, the characters, I loved it all. The ending was perfect. I can’t wait for the next book in this series. I love this family of characters so much!...more
#1- No Tomorrow by Carian Cole. I read this book last month after a friend recommended it to me saying it would be a book I would love (thanks, Jen!). Carian was a new to me author and I had no idea what to expect but OMG this book! It was intense, emotional, and just everything. I just bought the audio book today and I'm looking forward to doing a re-read soon!
#2- Josh and Hazel's Guide to Not Dating by Christina Lauren. This is the best friends to lovers book I've ever read. It was so much fun and left me with the biggest smile. Rom coms aren't typically my favorites, but this book was so heartwarming and wonderful. I've read it twice and Josh and Hazel are my favorite couple of the year.
#3- In Harmony by Emma Scott. This is one of the most beautifully written books I've ever read. Emma always writes heartbreaking reads that heal you and I can't get enough! I especially loved the theater storyline!
#4- Heartbreak Warfare by Heather M. Orgeron & Kate Stewart. This book gutted me. It was emotional and angsty and Heather & Kate cowrote it seamlessly. Another one that gave me all the feels and I loved it so much!
#5- The Kiss Quotient by Helen Hoang. This was the debut novel of the year for me. I'm always looking for more authors that write smart and sexy romance. This was unique, refreshing, and the writing was intelligent and fresh. Another book on my list that I've read more than once in 2018.
#6- Bad for You by J. Daniels. This was the first book to go on my favorites list. I read it very early in the year and it left a huge impact on me. Sean is my favorite kind of hero and I loved Shay as well. Sean's story had me bawling and I loved how hard Shay loved him and how she was willing to sacrifice for him. It was a story of healing, friendship, and also had a wonderful romance.
#7- Luna and the Lie by Mariana Zapata. This one blew me away. I started it one day and finished it the same day (and it's a long book) I could not put it down. I bow down to the queen of slow burn romance. Rip was perfection and I loved Luna!
#8- Player by Staci Brillhart. My new favorite Staci book (and I've read almost all of them). This one had me giddy. Sam and Val had the best friendship/relationship. I laughed and smiled so much but it also had the emotion I crave while reading. I loved it so much.
#9- Disgrace by Brittainy C. Cherry. I love ALL of Brittainy's books. I'm a certified fan girl. Disgrace is the one that touched me the deepest because it was relatable for me. This book has so much heart.
#10- Long Shot/Block Shot by Kennedy Ryan. I can't choose which one of these books I love more. Long Shot is so important and it was profound. It left me speechless and was intense. Block Shot had the best bad ass heroine of the year. Banner was my favorite female character and I loved Jared, too. Everything Kennedy writes is addicting and has a great message.
#11- Beautiful Hearts Duet by Emma Scott. Emma made it on my list twice because everything she puts out is a favorite. This is the duet of the year. It gave me all the feels and kept me on the edge of my seat.
#12- The Simple Wild by KA Tucker. This is my new favorite from this author. I loved the original plot and character driven story. It took place in Alaska and I felt like I was there. Jonah and Calla were amazing, and so were the side characters. It was a stunning read.
#13- The Legacy by Dylan Allen. This is probably the sexiest book on my list. Hayes and Confidence burned the pages up. But it was so much more than just a steamy read. It was captivating, passionate, and gripping. Just the right amount of drama and feels!
#14- Trailer Park Heart by Rachel Higginson. Another new to me author I, I read this book just last week and fell hard for it. A single mom, a hero who's carried a torch for her since high school comes back to town. This couple had the best banter and this book kept me up way past my bedtime reading. I loved it!
#15- Unforgivable by Isabel Love. I've read this book so many times and each time I read it, I love it more. This book hit me right in the feels and checked off all my love buttons. It's a slow burn, brothers best friend, friends to lovers, and I can't recommend it enough!
#16- All Your Perfects by Colleen Hoover. Cue all the sobbing. This evoked so much emotion. Unforgettable, unputdownable, and so many feels.
#17- A Nordic King by Karina Halle. This one was sweet, angsty, and sexy. It was fun and light, yet emotional and heavy in a way. The perfect forbidden romance. Karina's writing is always amazing and this is one of my favorites she's written.
#18- Down to You by Jayne Frost. Jayne is another new to me author this year. I've read all of her books and have enjoyed them all, but this one was epic. The best rock star read I've read in a long time. I love broken characters that heal together and that is Tori and Logan. I loved everything about this one!...more
After reading this story all I could think was WOW. What an epic book. And hello feels. This story was everything. It gave me all the feels, moved me, was crazy angsty, heartfelt, and a true masterpiece. Kate Stewart is one of my favorite authors, and I’ve never read Heather M. Orgeron before, but what a duo they make! The writing was truly top notch and the story was unique, intense, and moving.
Katy is a soldier. She’s leaving her husband and son for a tour, even though it’s the last thing she wants to do. It’s her duty. She’s there with her best friend, which should make things easier, but it’s rough for her. She misses her family. After some time, she and her bestie Mullins make friends with a group of guys. Briggs is one of those guys. He’s fun and flirty, but just a friend. It’s war and the unthinkable happens. Everyone in that groups life is forever changed.
This story is complicated. It’s impossible at times. It’s real, raw, heartbreaking and gut wrenching. It’s in an area of gray. There aren’t clear lines. Anyone who can find fault in these characters after what they’ve been through… the connection you share when you go through something like they went through- it’s unbreakable. There is no fault. And I’m being intentionally vague because this is a book you need to read for yourself, feel for yourself.
“I know you, Scottie. . .” His voice breaks as he shakes his head in disbelief. “I know you.”
This was a hard book for me to read. It actually has topics I hate reading about (view spoiler)[ I hate love triangles when someone is married (hide spoiler)] but you have to trust me when I say, read it anyway. Even if you aren’t a huge lover of angst, even if you don’t like ‘love triangles’, read it. I feel like everything worked out the way it was supposed to, even though it wasn’t an easy path. It was the only path. My title of (view spoiler)[ my guy never gets the girl (hide spoiler)] still reins true, but this is how it was meant to be. You can’t fight fate.
Kate and Heather wrote this book flawlessly. Honestly, there wasn’t one point I could tell it was written by two different authors. It’s told from three different view points (you most definitely need all three) and there is no way I could pick out who wrote what. I love when authors collaborate so seamlessly.
Heartbreak Warfare is angsty, it’s emotional, it’s a book that gutted me. It’s unputdownable and truly brilliant. I know for sure this book will be in my top favorites this year. I can’t see much topping it. Even though this was not an easy read, it’s a book that needs to be read! 5+ stars!
There are only two things in life I’m sure of. My love of this country and my love for you.
“I know, Piper. Your heart is my home. The way you look at me, the way you make me feel, is my home.”
No Tomorrow. If you haven’t read this book, drop whatever your doing or whatever your reading and pick it up. This book… I read it 2 weeks ago and have been trying to find the words to review it ever since. This book was completely off my radar and by a new to me author, but I have this friend that insisted I read it before the end of the year. She knows me all too well, because I didn’t just read this book- I devoured it. I loved it so much and I’m certain it’s my top favorite read of 2018.
Piper is a twenty-one year old girl who lives a rather mundane life. She works 40 hours a week in an office, still lives with her parents, and has a best friend that keeps things interesting. She goes to the same park every work day to read and eat her lunch. One day, a musician is there. Piper is captivated by this man. He has long hair, tattoos, and is a little rough around the edges, but his music pulls her in, and she can tell he’s got a good heart, as he’s sweet and gentle with his dog. Blue notices Piper right away too. These two have an instant connection. It’s powerful and intense, and even though Blue is homeless and things aren’t easy for them, they fall in love.
Piper and Blue’s story spans 14 years. They love each other so much, Blue loves Piper the only way he knows how and Piper loves him back unequivocally. Love can be a beautiful thing, but it can also hurt. This love story hurts sometimes. Blue deals with his own demons and additions and Piper tries to be the glue that holds him together. Things aren’t easy for them, but no matter what they go through, it always comes back to the two of them. They are destined to be together.
There were things in this story I didn’t see coming, and things I caught on to early on. I loved being surprised, and not figuring everything out. I loved how strongly these two felt for each other and I loved that Piper never gave up on her love for Blue. She never stopped fighting for him, and Blue did the best he could. I truly believe that. I don’t want to go on too much about their love story, because you really do need to read it yourself. I went in fairy blind and I’m glad I did.
“I love you, Ladybug,” he whispers. “This time is forever. I promise.” I slide the curve of my foot up and down his leg. “Blue... don’t make promise—” His lips linger on mine. “I promise. The only thing in my life that I’ve ever known for sure, the only thing that’s always with me, even when I’m fucked up, is that I love you and you love me. I need you to believe in us.”
This book was an emotional rollercoaster. It was angsty, hard to read at times, uber emotional, and completely unforgettable. You will cry, you will feel, you will probably want to throw things, but you will also fall in love and by the end, your broken heart will be mended. This book touched me and I can’t recommend it enough. The writing was exquisite, the story was intense and powerful, and it was captivating and unputdownable. I’m calling it now, even though the year still has 30 days or so left. This is THE BOOK of 2018 for me! Do yourself a favor and give it a read. And a huge thanks to my friend Jen for insisting I read xoxo
“You’re the only one that’s ever looked past the dirt to see the flowers, Ladybug. That’s why I can’t let you go.”
If I Only Knew may very well be my new favorite Corinne Michaels book. It was emotional, sexy, funny, and I loved everything about it!
Danielle is a widow. In a surprising tragedy, she lost her husband and her children lost their father. Adjusting to life without him has not been easy for any of them. Danielle is surviving. She is doing the best she can for her and her kids. She's working, spending time with them, trying to keep her teenage daughter in line, and that's about it. She recently got a promotion at work, which is great. Love is the last thing on her mind.
Milo is in America to take back what is rightfully his. A head position in his brother's company. The position Danielle is now in, to be exact. At first, Milo seems like a bit of a spoiled brat. But he's not, not anymore anyway. When he first meets Dani, he is struck by her beauty, but knows he can't go anywhere with it. Getting his job back has to be his priority.
This book is a work-place romance and has a bit of that enemies to lovers troupe we all love so much. I loved watching Dani and Milo work together and get to know each other more. Seeing Dani come out of her self and her grief and realize maybe she can love again. Seeing Milo realize there are more important things out there than his job and being willing to sacrifice anything and everything for Dani. It was a truly beautiful thing.
The group of friends in these books... they're amazing! I love all of the girls, but I think Dani and Kristin are the two that are most relate-able to me so I was really happy to get this book. Dani has a lot of strength. She's a great mom and a fabulous heroine. And I adored Milo. I mean... swoon. He was the best. And listening to his chapters on this audio book with that accent... sigh.
Corinne did an incredible job with If I Only Knew. It was heartwarming, steamy, passionate, intense, and emotional. The writing was great as always, and listening to the audio was amazing. If you love audio books, be sure to pick this one up! ...more
It was just Stone Jacobs. A man I’d known six years. A man I’d found to be kind, charming, easy-going, and well, pretty much perfect. Three dates with a friend. No problem, right?
If you love a good slow-burn romance, a friends to lovers storyline, and a somewhat suspenseful story, Three Dates will be the perfect book for you. This book pulled me in from the very beginning. I was so invested in Muriella and Stone’s story.
Muriella has been through so much in her life. Because of this, she’s sworn off men for good. But Stone Jacobs is not your average man. Stone and Muriella have been friends for years. In those years of friendship, Stone has only wanted Muriella. He’s gotten her to agree to three dates. Three dates to prove to her that she can trust him, that they belong together, and that’s he’s worth the risk.
Stone is a gentleman. He’s a family man, respectful, and shows Muriella what it could be like to be loved and cherished by a man who cares for her. Muriella has a lot of demons from her past. She doesn’t feel whole, and until she does, she doesn’t feel like she can ever let anyone in. Stone is determined to do anything he has to to change her mind. He sees Muriella, truly sees her and knows she isn’t broken. She’s perfect just the way she is.
“You deserve a whole person.” Her voice was a plea for me to understand. She didn’t get that I saw her, who she really was. “I’m looking at one.”
Stone and Muriella are amazing characters. I honestly couldn't tell you which one I loved more. Stone is a great man. Patient, understanding, and unwavering in his love. He had a heart of gold and was so damn swoony. I loved Muriella’s strength. She was sweet, gentle, and yet so very strong. She’s overcome so much from her past and the fact that she could learn to love and trust Stone just proves how strong she really is. These two have so much of a connection and chemistry, but their friendship is really the backbone of their relationship and the trust that Muriella had in Stone because of this friendship is the reason their love was able to grow and thrive.
Three Dates is such a fantastic read. The writing was strong, the characters well developed, and I loved everything about it. Stone and Muriella are unforgettable and their story will stay with me. The ending had me crying happy tears and I can’t recommend this book enough to all lovers of romance!
“Everyone knows this. No one storms the castle for the príncipe. They come for la princesa.”
You know that giddy feeling you get while reading a book? The butterflies in your stomach, perma-grin on your face? That is the exact feeling I got while reading Staci Hart’s Player. I’ve read (and loved) a lot of her books, but this book has to be her best yet. I loved everything about it. Just thinking about it and writing this review is leaving me with a huge smile on my face.
Val is part of the RLC (red lipstick coalition) and is a strong and independent woman, but when it comes to men, she’s not so confident. She has some body issues from hitting puberty young and she’s never really felt comfortable in her own skin. She is an uber talented musician who plays in the orchestra of a broadway show. Along with Sam. Sam is Val’s crush. He plays the base. And that’s not all he plays. He’s all around a player. But she has it bad for him anyway.
Val never thought Sam would notice her, but he does. Sam genuinely likes Val and is attracted to her, but he doesn’t do relationships. Still, he offers to teach her a thing or two about dating.
Val just was. She was the most refreshing woman I’d met in years.
Every scene with Val and Sam… sigh. I loved the music, the dancing, Val’s hilarious pick up lines, and Sam was just everything. This book was everything! It was so much more than a romance. Sure, the love story between these two was fantastic, but Val coming into her own, learning to love and accept herself… It was the best part of the book. And she couldn’t have done it without Sam. Even Sam himself realized he was so much more than he thought he was. Sam isn’t just a player. Sam is capable of more than just some fun in the sack. I loved that they both were able to bring out the best parts of each other.
The romance between Val and Sam was sweet and tender, yet funny and heartwarming. I loved them together. As friends, as more, they just had this amazing chemistry. Chemistry with their music, their dancing, and especially between the sheets.
“You’re beautiful... You’re perfect. You don’t need me, Val. You’re fucking perfect.”
Player was fun, flirty, touching, steamy, and had so much heart. My heart is so full after reading. It had just enough angst to keep me completely enthralled through out and just enough emotion to give me the feels I need to make it a 5 star favorite. It’s a breath of fresh air and a beautiful romance I highly recommend! This will definitely be going on my top favorites of the year!
The Law of Henna and Bodhi: When love breaks, fall inward, fall together, and fall hard. Then let time pick up the pieces.
I've read a few of Jewel E. Ann's books, and I have to say, this is my favorite. It was completely captivating, addictive, and an epic romance. I highlighted so many quotes, didn't want to put the book down, and it is seriously the best kind of forbidden love.
Henna and Bodhi are a couple I will always remember. I love this kind of love story. The kind that sets your heart on fire. When Henna and Bohdi meet, it's fate. It's meant to be. And the universe always seems to pull them together when they need each other. They fall fast and they fall hard for one another. Henna is 18 and Bodhi is a few years older, but it's clear that they belong to one another.
Due to an accident Henna was in, she is behind a year in school. When she starts her senior year of high school the very last thing she expects to find is Mr. Malone, her sexy guidance counselor, aka Bodhi, the man she is head over heels for. Bodhi's family situation is complicated, and it's not like he can just quit his job because of it. This puts them in a bit of a bind.
“You’re trouble.” Do I want trouble tonight? Do I want to go down this rabbit hole? Giving her the once-over while she does the same to me, the answer is clear. Interlacing our fingers, she pulls me toward the van. “Oh, you have no idea.”
As things progress with this couple, there are even more obstacles that arise. Some so much more serious than the student/counselor thing. My god this book was angsty as hell. I was so stressed while reading it. But I still loved it so much. These two went through so much. Even when it felt like things could never work, I had hope, because they are meant to be. And even when they hated each other and their situations, their love always always prevailed.
“I missed you beyond words,” I whisper. His eyes open, looking a few shades darker blue beneath the curtain of my hair around us. “You hated me.” “Yes.” I drop soft kisses all over his face. “But I loved you more.”
Sobs. I just loved it so much! Henna and Bodhi were both fantastic characters, but my favorite of the book may have been Bodhi's dad. I adored him and I so loved the relationship he had with Henna. And there was a scene with he and Bodhi I straight out sobbed while reading. Seriously the best dad ever.
This book was full of passion, angst, and epic love. It's the kind of romance that I crave. Even though it had my stomach in knots, I loved every single page! This is definitely a must read for all lovers of romance.
Henna: Hi. Remember me? Bodhi: Hi. I’m pretty sure you’re still my greatest memory.
I’ve read a few books by Jayne Frost and I liked them a lot. Down to You I more than liked. So much more. This book I loved. It was the perfect rockstar romance. An emotional, angsty, and sexy story of two broken characters finding ways to heal.
From the first moment I met Logan, I knew I had to have his book. I loved him from the start. The more I learned about him and his past, the harder I fell. Tori was one of the biggest rock stars out there, until an accident happened and she lost everything. Now, she manages a lot of the big bands out there, Logan’s band being one of them.
After Logan makes a few unwise decisions, he finds himself with a chaperone on tour. And that chaperone is Tori. These two butt heads. They don’t get along well, but something is there, under the surface. There is a buzz of chemistry constantly surrounding them. You can feel it. They both know it’s there but acting on it would be a mistake. Being on an extended road trip together and getting to truly know one another, it becomes impossible to keep their distance.
What I loved most about this book was watching these two characters trust each other, open up, and start to heal. Both of them have been through so much, and they both deserve love. It wasn’t always an easy path for the two of them, but that just made the ending so much sweeter. And the way they were connected…. gah! I loved it so much.
Logan is my favorite kind of hero. Loyal, tortured, beautifully broken, with a huge heart. He is so much more than what meets the eye. Tori was also a little bit broken, but she was also a spitfire. I love fierce heroines and even though she’d been through so much, she had loads of strength. These two had a great back and forth and bickered constantly, but honestly, they brought out the best in each other.
I haven’t read an epic rockstar read in what feels like ages, so Down to You really hit the spot for me. There was nothing about it I didn’t love. The story was solid, the characters were great, and the writing fantastic. 5 stars!
A Nordic King is my new favorite Karina Halle book (after The Play- my all time favorite)! I am obsessed with this book. Seriously, I loved it so much! It was fun, angsty, sweet, emotional, and sexy. There was nothing I didn’t love about it, an all around perfect read for me!
Aurora is looking for a new job as a nanny. She never in a million years expects to interview to be the nanny for the two little princesses of Denmark. But here she is. She’s even more surprised when she gets the job. Now, the aloof and moody King Aksel is her boss. At first, these two go round and round. I love that Aurora has a back bone and doesn’t let Aksel walk all over her. With time, and the connection they share, she starts to fall for him.
Bloody hell. I think I’m in love with my boss. A king. And there’s nothing I can do to stop it.
While Aurora is slowly falling for Aksel, she is already been head over heals for his daughters. I love the relationship that the three girlies have. And little Snarf-Snarf, maybe the best part of the book LOL! The family dynamic of this story was just as beautiful as the romance. Aurora is an amazing heroine, and then there is Aksel. He’s had a rough life, especially lately. He’s a bit of a jerk at times, but god did I love him! Watching him fall for Aurora and seeing it change him was such a beautiful thing!
She’s not just a nanny. She’s Aurora. She’s my reckoning and savior all at once. She’s her namesake, those northern lights that brighten the darkest winter skies. She’s my homecoming.
This couple had so much passion. Their romance was forbidden, sexy, and intense. I adored the both of them and seriously had so much love for this book! I can’t recommend it enough. If you love fairy tale romances and slow burns, this is the book for you. It’s a beautiful book about family, forgiveness, love, and it made me laugh, cry, and left me with the biggest smile on my face. 5 stars to A Nordic King!
“I am a king. And I belong to you in ways I never thought possible. More than I belong to my country, more than I belong to the people, I belong to you.”
Kiss an Angel was my first book by Susan Elizabeth Phillips, and after reading it, I'll definitely be reading more! I adored this story!
Daisy Devreaux and Alex Marcov are to be wed... it's not common to have arranged marriages in the US in this day and age, but Daisy has gotten herself into a pickle and marrying Alex is the only solution she sees. She doesn't know what she's gotten herself into, though... Daisy is used to the privileged life. But things have changed for her. She thinks by marrying Alex, she'll be able to live her life as status quo. Having no idea Alex is part of the circus. Yes, you read the right. The circus.
I, for one, am not a fan of circuses. And the only reason for that is the way they treat animals and cage ones that aren't meant to be caged. That is one thing I absolutely loved about Daisy. She had so much compassion for the animals. I loved the bond she developed with them, especially Sinjun and Tater. At first I was worried I wouldn't care for Daisy as she seemed a bit vapid at first, but I ended up loving her completely. Alex was another story.
We can do this easy, or we can do it rough. Either way, I'm going to win. You decide how it'll be.
It really took some time for Alex to grow on me. He is the asshole of all assholes sometimes. I didn't know if he'd be able to redeem himself, but he definitely did. I grew to love him by the end as well. Daisy and Alex really do seem like an unlikely pair, but for some reason, they make the perfect match.
Kiss an Angel was funny, sexy, sweet, and an all around good love story. My only criticism is that I listened to the audio book and was not a fan of the narration. The narrator sounded much too old to voice Daisy. As much as I love audio books, I'll listen to a sample before purchasing another by this author. ...more
Ladies and Gentleman… meet the newest King and Queen of romance, Hayes and Confidence. These two- they were so intriguing and both of their stories hooked me from the start.
When Hayes and Confidence first meet, there is that spark. That instant attraction. They both feel it, but then it gets a little rocky. Once these two find their footing, things between them are real and raw and completely entraining. I was obsessed with these two and their love.
She’s like nothing I’ve ever felt. She feels like mine. So much like mine.
Confidence is fierce. She’s strong, loyal, and a heroine that’s relatable and admirable. Hayes Rivers is an alpha male and he’s dirty in the best way possible. He and Confidence lit the pages on fire with their chemistry. This is by far one of the sexiest books I’ve read this year. There was so much more than just the sexiness of the book. The romance was epic. The love story between these two… sigh. I was obsessed with them.
The romance between Hayes and Confidence was my favorite part of the book, but there was so much more to this story. I loved the drama, the angst, and the twists and the turns. Hayes’ family was much like a soap opera and I couldn’t get enough. I loved the surprises throughout the story and can’t wait to see where some of these revelations take us.
The Legacy is a completely captivating, passionate, romantic, steamy, and gripping read. This is one book you don’t want to miss out on. I can’t sing it’s praises enough. Dylan Allen really brought it with this book and I can’t wait to read more about these characters- bring on Remington’s book!
“Our legacies—what we choose to leave of ourselves in this world—is up to us”
Colleen Hoover is one of my favorite authors. Not many can evoke the kind of emotion she does with each and every book. All Your Perfects may be her most emotional one yet, at least for me it was.
Quinn and Graham’s love story starts out in an unconventional way. From the moment they met, to when they married, to now, 7 years after that, it’s apparent that fate put them together. They are still just as much in love now as they were in the beginning, but things out of their control has changed things for them. Life has a way of doing that. Sometimes love isn’t enough, but sometimes, it is.
It’s hard to admit that a marriage might be over when the love is still there.
All Your Perfects went back and forth from past to present by each chapter. This was brilliant. Just as I thought the present was too much and I needed a break, I got to see a chapter of the past. Of Quinn and Graham blissfully in love. It made the book easier to read. And seeing their relationship build gave you insight into the couple they were. A couple that was destined to be together from the start.
My thoughts on this book are complicated. There are so many things about this book that were contradictions for me. I loved it and hated it at the same time. I could relate to the story and the main characters in ways I’ve never related to another book/character, yet there were many choices made and things done I couldn’t relate to at all. When it’s all said and done, this is the journey of Graham and Quinn. And I could never judge this couple on how they handled the hand the had been dealt. Unless you’ve walked a mile in their shoes, neither could you.
People can’t always control who their circumstances turn them into.
Though much of the book was hard for me to read, I thought Hoover ended this story perfectly. The last 10% had me sobbing, but those tears were mostly happy. I loved how the book ended. I loved how real, raw, and brilliant this book was. I loved that a light was shined on a topic that effects many of us, but most people don’t understand it or want to talk about it. I, for one, am glad that most people don’t get it and won’t be able to relate. But for those of us that can, I feel that Colleen did justice to this story and this topic and I’m happy that this book was written. As hard as it was to read at times, I’m glad I read it.
All Your Perfects is an unforgettable, unputdownable, and completely captivating read. It’s a book that will forever leave a mark on my heart. If you’re looking for a book to give you all the feels, one that shows the good, bad, and ugly side of marriage and life, but one that will leave you hopeful and believing in true love, pick this book up. It’s a journey you need to read to experience.
Flesh doesn’t know race and class, it only knows need and want, gratification and comfort.
Salt is a powerful and poignant story about two people from completely different walks of life. This is one of those books that will touch your heart. It will make you feel and make you think, and it’s not a typical romance. It’s a journey you walk through with both of these characters. It’s not always pretty, but it’s tangible and true. I love forbidden love stories and those opposite attract type tales. This is a classic troupe and one that was portrayed perfectly.
The delinquent and the debutant.
Salana grew up in Connecticut. She’s a privileged girl and has never wanted for anything. As a teen, she meets Santiago, or Tiago. Tiago’s parents are not only absent, but addicts. He is raised by his Grandma and spends most of his time on the streets. He doesn’t want to be this way, but what else can he do. There could not be two people any more different than Tiago and Salt, but when they meet, sparks fly. As their story progresses, every time they come back together it’s still there.
The connection these two characters had from the moment they first met was completely undeniable. It was palpable. As time went on and they went through different things, when ever they were together, the connection only grew. I think Salana is an amazing and strong character, but Tiago’s character blew me away. Coming from what and where he did, life was not easy for him. He did it though. He somehow managed to do the unthinkable and rise above. To take the hand he was dealt and somehow turn it into something good. I felt pride for him and adored his character.
Between the sheets was their ground zero. There was no class war, no cultural differences when they were marking and owning one another’s flesh. It didn’t matter who Salana was and Santiago wasn’t when the physical language their bodies spoke was more clear than most human communication. It wasn’t just sexual, the explosive chemistry that rocked them—their connection was also spiritual.
This book is real, it’s raw, and it’s beautifully written. The romance aspect wasn’t the part I loved the most, even though I did love it. I loved watching both of the characters change, grow, and through it all, support each other. Their stories- both of their stories- were inspiring to me. This book really spoke to me. Sometimes there aren’t choices and all we can do is work with the hand we are dealt. I appreciated this book and the message it gave. This is my first book written by Mara White, and I’ll be reading many more to come!!!...more
“The hardest thing is love, with no expiration date, no qualifiers, no safety net. Love that demands acceptance of all thi
5+ stars!!!
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“The hardest thing is love, with no expiration date, no qualifiers, no safety net. Love that demands acceptance of all things I cannot change. Love that doesn't follow a plan.”
My Oxford Year by Julie Whelan is a real gem of a book! It took me by surprise in the best way! I’ve listened to many audio books narrated by Ms. Whelan (she is an amazing narrator) and I’m happy to report that her writing is amazing as well. I listened to this in audio, it was narrated by her of course, and if you haven’t read yet, I have to recommend you experience this book via audio. It was made to be listened to over being read, in my opinion.
Ella Durran is a 24 year old American who is out of the country for the first time. She is a Rhodes Scholar who is studying in Oxford. On top of that, she has just been offered a job to work on a potential presidential candidate's campaign. Her future is promising and the world is her oyster. Her first day in England, Ella meets Jamie. Their meeting left me with a huge grin on my face.
Jamie Davenport isn’t a professor, but he’s helping out by teaching a literature class. And it’s a class Ella happens to be in. These two have such a connection, they can’t seem to stay away from each other. They decide just for the time that Ella is in England, they will be together. No strings. Then, as things always seem to do, the feelings between them start to change. The problem with this is that things are even more complicated than what they seem…
"And if you’re not surprised by life, then what’s the bloody point?”
Ella and Jamie. Gah! I adored them both. Jamie is charming, sweet, and swoony, and Ella is witty, intelligent, and sharp. I loved them both, and even more, I loved them together. Along with the two main characters, there were a slew of wonderful secondary characters that made the story that much more interesting.
When I saw in the blurb that this book was recommended for fans of JoJo Moyes and Nicholas Sparks, I knew it was a book I had to read. It’s a smart book that’s full of humor, charm, and of course- feels. You’ll be happy to know I didn’t cry like a baby while reading this, I may have shed a few tears, but overall, I found this uplifting and heartwarming. It was a touching story, and one that will stay with me. I give this book a full 5 stars and recommend to all lovers of romance and coming of age stories. And remember- listen to the audio if you get the chance! It’s fantastic!...more
Kate Stewart is one of those authors that never disappoints. Her books are consistently good and have so much heart! Someone Else’s Ocean is no exception. I loved this story so much!!
Koti and Ian were childhood friends, but they haven’t seen each other in years. Both of their families own beach homes in St. Thomas and Koti has been staying and hers for a while now. Just as Ian’s life is imploding, he comes to his family home to have some time to get himself together. He never expects Koti. They don’t see each other coming, but they are exactly what each other needs. And this place is exactly where they are meant to be.
"I don’t have the answer to anything. But here, this place is where everything wrong can be made right.”
Ian and Koti have tons of chemistry. Even though there is a lot of push and pull with them, it’s apparent from the start that the connection they had as children is still there. It only grows with time. I loved both of these characters so hard! Ian has gone through something… I can’t even imagine. He is such an amazing man though, and the best father ever. Which is a truly endearing quality. Koti has her own issues, and they are issues I think a lot will relate to. I, for one, found her completely relatable. As much as I loved these two characters individually, they truly shined when they were together.
She was dangerous for me in every way. I was addicted to her warmth, her kiss, her body.
This story is the perfect summer read. It’s not super light, but it has some light moments and is definitely funny at times! Koti’s BFF is a hoot! And of course, it takes place on a beautiful island! Who doesn’t want to read a story in that location?! This is a truly stunning romance. It’s about true and unconditional love in many forms. It’s a breathtaking read. Someone Else’s Ocean is a special book to me. It’s one that made me laugh, love, and feel. Kate has written another book to go right on my favorites list! I highly recommend this one to all lovers of romance!
I've read several of Christina Lauren books and I can say with the utmost confidence that this is their best book to date. It's by far my favorite of theirs. There wasn't one thing I didn't love about it. Josh and Hazel's Guide to Not Dating is the epitome of opposites attract. It's one of the best friends to lovers story I've ever read and I loved it so much!! I have no doubt it will be one of my favorite reads of 2018.
Hazel Bradford is a bit of a weirdo, and I mean that in the best way possible. She knows she can be a lot to take, she gets it. She's fun, loud, a little crazy and a lot of amazing. When she meets Josh Im in college, she's got a bit of a crush, but Josh seems to be right there in the middle of all her embarrassing moments. Josh is very much the opposite of Hazel. He's mellow, cool, calm, and collective.
“I realize that finding the perfect person isn’t going to be easy for me because I’m a lot to take,” she says, “but I’m not going to change just so that I’m more datable.”
Fast forward years after college and Hazel becomes besties with a girl named Emily. She soon finds out that Emily is Josh Im's sister. Josh and Hazel are back in each other's lives and Hazel is determined that they become best friends. Josh is at a place where he could use a best friend, so even as different as these two are, they end up spending all their free time together and this unlikely pair just clicks.
I loved reading about these two together. They were perfect. You could feel the attraction under the surface, the friendship, and the love. They had so many adventures and crazy (non)dates with others that just made me laugh out loud. I think what I loved the most is that Josh loved Hazel for who she was, crazy and all. He never wanted her to change or calm down, he just accepted her. It was a beautiful thing.
I laughed and smiled so much while reading this book and it gave me the best heartwarming feels. This story was everything. These types of books aren't usually my favorites, as I lean towards books that are more heavy and emotional, but this one hit the spot for me. It was exactly what I wanted and I loved every single second.
As you can probably tell from my raving review, I highly recommend this book. I could not have loved it more if I wanted to. Hazel and Josh were both such endearing and fantastic characters and I loved their connection and chemistry. If you're looking for a book that will give you a permanent smile, one that will make your heart so happy it could burst, and just a completely lovable friends to lovers book, pick this one up. You won't regret it!