Genre ~ children's fiction (5-9 year olds) Series ~ Finlay the First Aid Bear, #1 Publication date ~ November 18, 2023 Est page Count ~ 36
If there's one Genre ~ children's fiction (5-9 year olds) Series ~ Finlay the First Aid Bear, #1 Publication date ~ November 18, 2023 Est page Count ~ 36
If there's one thing Finlay knows it's first aid.
What I liked the most: ~ instructions for the little ones to call for help with the different codes based on your country. ~ the map of the Windy Falls Woods where Finlay lives and loves to explore ~ the great tips on how to help with nosebleeds, a reminder to wash your hands before eating, the importance of staying hydrated, especially when you're out in the hot sun, and how to clean a cut with thorough instructions
What didn't fully work for me: ~ Finlay sneaking behind his parents back and going into the forest, and bringing his little sister along, when he knows he shouldn't ~ it ends on a cliffhanger, which I don't think works well for this story. Leaving young readers wondering if Finlay and Evee will be okay could be scary. I suppose if you have the next book on hand it might not be that big of an issue.
While there's no doubt Finlay knows what to do in an emergency I can't help but think he wouldn't have been in an emergency situation if he didn't sneak around doing something he knew he shouldn't have.
Overall, I do think it's a good book that's jammed packed with helpful resources that gives great learning opportunities, which I'm always thrilled to see in children's books. It did feel on the longer side for very young readers, so I think it's best for children a little older who might have a better attention span.
The illustrations by Dani Mathewson were perfect for the story.
*Thanks to the publisher for sending me a copy. I am voluntarily leaving my honest review*
4⭐ Genre ~ contemporary romance Setting ~ Paris, France & a week in NYC & California Publication date ~ August 3, 2023 Page Count ~ 340 (31 chapters +e) P4⭐ Genre ~ contemporary romance Setting ~ Paris, France & a week in NYC & California Publication date ~ August 3, 2023 Page Count ~ 340 (31 chapters +e) POV ~ single 1st, present tense Featuring ~ debut, cooking, sweet, slow burn, no miscommunication, no 3rd act breakup, no steamage
Claire has left behind her cheating boyfriend and toxic mother and is living in Paris. She's working in a restaurant that she hopes will get a Michelin star one day soon. When she meets her new boss, James, she's ecstatic. James already has one star under his belt, so surely their restaurant will be next. It doesn't hurt that he's easy on the eyes.
Pretty sure I've never read a more sweet, patient and supportive man. You can't not swoon over James and his denim blue eyes. His whole family is great, too. Claire's, on the other hand, not so great.
I loved that each chapter begins with a cooking and/or food tip and then that's weaved into that chapter. There is some repetition and I feel it could have been cut down a bit, but overall I really enjoyed it. I couldn't have wished for a better ending to this delightfully sweet book, however it felt a bit sudden. I wouldn't mind a sequel to see how their life is progressing, either.
*Thanks to the author for sending me a copy. I am voluntarily leaving my honest review*
Genre ~ journal for 7 - 12 year olds Series ~ a companion to the author's Hockey Wars series Publication date ~ November 8, 2023 Page Count ~ 356
This jouGenre ~ journal for 7 - 12 year olds Series ~ a companion to the author's Hockey Wars series Publication date ~ November 8, 2023 Page Count ~ 356
This journal has 4 main sections: ~ Writing Space: Each day of the year has its own space where you can record how you are feeling, write down your thoughts and goals. It also features writing prompts to get your creativity flowing and free space for sketching and drawing.
I liked that there are variations day to day. I think that will help motivate the child and get them excited to write down their feelings and thoughts when it's not the same boring content again and again.
If you could talk to trees, what would you ask them? What is the best smell in the world?
~ Fun Activities: Daily activities such as brain teasers, puzzles, rhymes, riddles, jokes, and quotes throughout the journal to keep you entertained and your brain ticking!
What gets wet as it dries? If you don’t keep me, I’ll break. What am I?
The inspirational quotes from well known (mostly) names are a great way to encourage the reader. "Do right. Do your best. Treat others the way you want to be treated." ~ LOU HOLTZ "To be a champ you have to believe in yourself when no one else will." ~ SUGAR RAY ROBINSON "I'd rather regret the risks that didn't work out than the chances I didn't take at all."- SIMONE BILES
~ Health and Wellness: Health and exercise suggestions and ideas to keep you active both on and off the ice.
Do you know how to juggle? Here is a guide to learn how which will improve your hand eye coordination if you're interested.
Juggling is a fun and impressive skill that can be learned by anyone with a bit of practice. Here are some simple instructions that will help you get started: 1. Start with two objects: It’s best to begin with two objects, such as two balls or two oranges. Hold one in each hand, and practice tossing one ball from one hand to the other. 2. Focus on the arc: When you toss the ball, aim for a high arc in the air. This will give you more time to catch the second ball and keep the rhythm going. 3. Add the second ball: Once you feel comfortable with one ball, it’s time to add the second ball. Toss the first ball as before, and then toss the second ball as the first ball reaches its highest point. 4. Keep practicing: Juggling takes time and practice, so don’t get discouraged if you drop the balls a few times. Keep practicing, and you’ll soon be able to juggle with ease. Remember to start with two objects and focus on the arc of your tosses. With a bit of practice, you’ll soon be able to juggle like a pro!
~ Hockey: Hockey game review section where you’ll be able to record your goals for the game, what you did right and what you need to work on, what you excelled at, and the results of the game.
Although this is a hockey based book, I think it would be okay to use it for any sport that they play if they don't mind all the references and illustrations geared towards hockey.
Overall, a nice journal to get children's minds and bodies in motion.
*Thanks to the authors for sending me a copy. I am voluntarily leaving my honest review*
4⭐ Genre ~ contemporary romance Setting ~ Brown Oaks (no clue where that is) Publication date ~ February 1, 2024 Page Count ~ 327 (35 chapters +e) POV ~ si4⭐ Genre ~ contemporary romance Setting ~ Brown Oaks (no clue where that is) Publication date ~ February 1, 2024 Page Count ~ 327 (35 chapters +e) POV ~ single 1st Featuring ~ small town, slow burn, grumpy/sunshine, enemies~ish to lovers, workplace romance, no steamage
Tess (28) works at a greeting card company that has hired Aaron as a cyber security consultant for 6 months. They don't get off on the right foot because Tess can't help clicking on adorable cat videos, which prove to be a scam and the whole reason Aaron is there in the first place.
Tess is sassy and not afraid to speak her mind. She had a wonderful relationship with her family and I especially loved her grandma and her beef with 'the google'. Also, enjoyed her friendship with Sofia and Kenzie and I love what happened with them in the end. I do have to mention that Tess has a boyfriend for a good portion of the book who is a real tool. There is no cheating on her part, but I do wish she would have broken up with him sooner, so we could have had more on the budding relationship of our main characters.
I do love me a good grump and Aaron was a good one. He takes his job very seriously. He has a sad backstory and I didn't like how he let his past affect the decisions he makes now, but all turns out well of course. He was really sweet when he wasn't grumping.
Overall, I had a good time reading this. The banter is on point and the slow burning romance was cute to watch unfold. Looking forward to reading with Lara writes next.
Side note ~ I am so pleased we got to catch up with Nina and Lucas from All the Lost Pieces to see how their life has progressed.
*Thanks to the author for sending me a copy. I am voluntarily leaving my honest review*
4⭐ Genre ~ psychological fiction Series ~ Spectrum Series #4 Others in the series#1-4 Setting ~ Italy, North Carolina Publication date ~ December 11, 20234⭐ Genre ~ psychological fiction Series ~ Spectrum Series #4 Others in the series#1-4 Setting ~ Italy, North Carolina Publication date ~ December 11, 2023 Page Count ~ 299 (36 chapters + interviews) POV ~ multiple 3rd Featuring ~ multiple timelines
Tracey is our serial killer, and in this final book we finally get the conclusion of what becomes of him. Will he get caught or continue to live his glamorous life with this wife and baby daughter?
We hear from Penelope and Figg (Detectives), Jane (the interviewer) and Tracey, along with his family and friends in 2014 & 2015, which kept the story flowing at a great pace.
There was quite the doozie of a twist that I did not see coming, so high five to that. Seriously, I don't think I would have ever guessed it. The final chapter was interestingly set in 2035 which gave us a nice glimpse of what all the characters are up to. Overall, this a great wrap up for a solid series.
Series notes: Absolutely not a standalone, each book has to be read in order.
*Thanks to the author's for sending me a copy. I am voluntarily leaving my honest review*
4.5⭐ Genre ~ contemporary romance Series ~ Aspen Grove #1 Others in the series ~ If You Give a Grump a Holiday Wishlist #0.5 Setting ~ Maine Publication da4.5⭐ Genre ~ contemporary romance Series ~ Aspen Grove #1 Others in the series ~ If You Give a Grump a Holiday Wishlist #0.5 Setting ~ Maine Publication date ~ March 14, 2024 Est page Count ~ (37 chapters +e) POV ~ dual 1st Featuring ~ small town, billionaire CFO, single dad, artist, nanny, age gap, grumpy/sunshine, opposites attract, neighbors to lovers, slow burn, some steamge, no 3rd act breakup
Dylan (33) & Marlow (23) don't get off on the right foot when her dog, Waffles, trespasses in his backyard. Flash forward one year later and Marlow becomes 6 year old Lola's nanny.
Book boyfriend alert! Dylan is most definitely a guy you’d want around when you’re sick as he’s a wonderful caretaker. He cooks and cleans, and even bakes muffins before 6am after he's had his workout. He works a bit too much, but he's such a devoted dad, and Lola is absolutely adorable and so well behaved.
Marlow is an artist and a bright spot of sunshine. Her relationship with Lola was wonderful. She has a strained relationship with her parents, but has found a great support system with Dylan's family, which was really nice to see.
Overall, I had a really great time reading this one. We've got the set up for the next book that seems like it'll be a lot of fun.
Series notes: This series follows siblings, so although not absolutely necessary I think you should read If You Give a Grump a Holiday Wishlist first because not only is it delightful, but you'll get to meet the whole clan because they're pretty involved as a tight knit family.
*Thanks to the author for the ARC. I am voluntarily leaving my honest review*
Happy publication day! 3.5⭐ Genre ~ domestic drama Setting ~ Vermont Publication date ~ July 16, 2024 Page Count ~ not exactly sure because my arc formattiHappy publication day! 3.5⭐ Genre ~ domestic drama Setting ~ Vermont Publication date ~ July 16, 2024 Page Count ~ not exactly sure because my arc formatting is off, but in the 300’s I think Audio length ~ 8 hours 30 minutes Narrator ~ unknown POV ~ dual 1st Featuring ~ book within a book, infidelity, secrets, minimal steamage
Kate is an erotica novel author that has an unconventional marriage. She’s not interested in sex, so her husband, Matt, has permission to have affairs while he’s often away on business. The kicker is that he has to tell her every detail so she can write about it in her books. We’re right alongside Kate as she writes, so we’re reading two books at once.
Annie is the new neighbor down the street who has developed a friendship with Kate since their daughters have become friends. Annie is a quirky character and may not be who she seems.
This was an interesting one. The characters try to be likable, but they’re really not. Matt starts off okay, but then you find out he likes to go on 34 mile bike rides and your thoughts start to waver. Then he’s riding for 69 miles for funzies and now he’s definitely moving into crazy talk territory with leg muscles that could probably crack a walnut. Kate’s daughter is lovely, but Annie’s could use a lesson on some manners. Heidi, friend of Kate’s, is definitely someone you’ll want by your side. Not only does she run a dog rescue, but she’d be right there to help you push someone off a cliff if they needed it.
Not in the thriller category and more just domestic drama, which was fine. It’s not hard to figure out where the story is heading, but it has a satisfying conclusion.
*Thanks to Lisa for sending me a copy. I am voluntarily leaving my honest review*
Narration notes: I did not listen to this one, but am just giving the info above for reference.
Genre ~ humorous poems Publication date ~ February 4, 2023 Est page Count ~ 86
This is a super short read of 43 one liner poems centered around poop. SomGenre ~ humorous poems Publication date ~ February 4, 2023 Est page Count ~ 86
This is a super short read of 43 one liner poems centered around poop. Something each and every one of us does. And no I didn’t read this where you think I might have, or did I? Bahaha.
Sometimes I don’t know what I get myself into. Would I have picked this up all on my own? Probably not. Would it make for a conversation starter for my bathroom guests? I’d say so.
So I’m not really sure what else to say or how to rate this one, so I’ll quote one of the funnier ones.
“Last night it was macaroni with cheese this morning it’s something you could insulate your attic with.”
Anyway, another one checked off my long list. Here’s a link to it on Amazon if you’re looking to have a copy available for your guests while they sputter and spoot. Pro tip ~ have some air freshener on hand just in case.
*Thanks to the "pooplitzer prize winning" author and Soot Publishing for the paperback copy. I am voluntarily leaving my honest review*
3⭐ Genre ~ contemporary romance Publication date ~ August 1, 2023 Est page Count ~ 331 (17 chapters +e) Audio length ~ 7 hours 3 minutes Narrator ~ Fiona H3⭐ Genre ~ contemporary romance Publication date ~ August 1, 2023 Est page Count ~ 331 (17 chapters +e) Audio length ~ 7 hours 3 minutes Narrator ~ Fiona Hampton POV ~ single 1st Featuring ~ characters in their 30's, work competition, fake dating, slow burn, enemies to lovers, opposites attract, no steamage
I've never been on a dating app, so I'm not sure how they compare, but I liked the one Marina has created. How great that other people are able to leave feedback on how their date went so you can decide if you want to go on a date with that person. Sounds like a time saver to me.
Marina was pretty set in her ways, which is fine to an extent, but I couldn't really warm up to her. I liked Lucas a bit more. Some of the dates they went on were fun.
Overall, it did have good banter which is what I expect from my enemies to lovers, so woo hoo for that, but really with the 3rd act. A bit slow moving and I would have liked dual POV, too.
And how many times do you think the word 'dealbreaker' was used? I don't have an exact number, but it felt like 100k too many.
Narration notes: Unfortunately I listened to this one like 8 audios ago and didn't take any notes, so I can't comment on the performance.
4.5⭐ Genre ~ holiday Christmas novella Setting ~ NYC & Maine Publication date ~ December 7, 2023 Est page Count ~ 149 (p+ 14 chapters +e) POV ~ dual 1st Fea4.5⭐ Genre ~ holiday Christmas novella Setting ~ NYC & Maine Publication date ~ December 7, 2023 Est page Count ~ 149 (p+ 14 chapters +e) POV ~ dual 1st Featuring ~ grump/sunshine, billionaire, boss/employee, fake relationship, age gap (23 & 32), forced proximity, one bed, some steamage
Presley & Jack All Presley wants for Christmas is a very well deserved 2 weeks off from work, so she can spend it with her family. Jack has other plans that include work work work, so when Presley won't budge he invites himself along with her.
Eek, I loved this one! Jake was the perfect workaholic grump and quite possibly my favorite grump ever. He has a sad backstory, so I really loved how he was included in the holiday festivities with Presley's family. And let me tell you they go all out ~ gingerbread house making contests, ice skating, Christmas movie marathons...the works ~ and each of them truly enjoy spending time together, which was really nice to see.
Presley's mom, Johanna, was so welcoming and just a lovely person altogether. Of course the 3 brothers have to do their brotherly shenanigans to protect their sister. I can’t wait to read each of their books.
Overall, a true delight that'll be sure to get even the grinchiest Grinch's in the Christmas spirit.
Side note ~ the cover is so adorable and I'm pretty sure I know what shade of pink that is, which makes it extra adorable!
*Thanks to Ann Einerson for the ARC. I am voluntarily leaving my honest review*
4.25⭐ Genre ~ children's fiction (ages 4-7) Publication date ~ September 7, 2023 Est page Count ~25
Bruce is a friendly ghost that wishes he could play ho4.25⭐ Genre ~ children's fiction (ages 4-7) Publication date ~ September 7, 2023 Est page Count ~25
Bruce is a friendly ghost that wishes he could play hockey. Will he find a way for his wish to come true?
What I liked: ~ how Bruce didn't want to be like other ghosts. He wanted to lead his own way and not be a typical scary ghost, which runs in his family ~ how at first, even though he didn't want to, he listened to what his father told him to do and practiced his scary faces ~ how he found a clever way to make his dream come true ~ the support of his family after they saw how happy he was playing ~ the compromise his father makes with him for all future Halloween's
Random thoughts: ~ the font varies, which was a little distracting as an adult, but probably wouldn't matter to a child ~ I hope a child doesn't try to be like Bruce when "he tried holding his breath until his face reddened and his eyes bulged out" ~ good idea to keep it real "All the kids jumped on top of him, and in all the excitement, they didn’t even notice that they were all falling straight through him" ~ although I do like the message of this story, I hope the little ones don't take it to heart and think it's okay to defy their parents and do whatever they want, even if they do want it really badly
About the illustrations by Tanya Zeinalova: ~ they give off an eerie ghostly vibe perfect for the story ~ the facial expressions were top notch ~~~~ I could see it in his eyes how much he wanted to play ~~~~ in turn, I could see the hurt when his father was yelling at him and saying he needed to be more scary
Overall, a cute little story about following your dreams. Perfect to read as a bedtime story to send the little ones off to dreamland to dream up their next big adventure...with permission, of course.
*Thanks to the authors for sending me a copy. I am voluntarily leaving my honest review*
Genre ~ children's fiction (ages 4-8) Publication date ~ September 10, 2023 Est page Count ~ 26
Trevor is scared of flying and tries to drum up the couraGenre ~ children's fiction (ages 4-8) Publication date ~ September 10, 2023 Est page Count ~ 26
Trevor is scared of flying and tries to drum up the courage to fly south for the winter.
What I liked the most: ~ how we start right off with Canadian goose facts ~ how Trevor tried to come up with alternative ways to achieve his end goal ~ how he tries to hype himself up positively ~ I must overcome my fear of flying and be the goose I always knew I could be. ~ his great way of thinking ~ I’ll start small and work my way up. One step at a time. ~ the illustrations by Kezzia Crossly did a nice job of showing Trevor's features going from scared and sad to happy and joyful
A fabulous little story that shows how if at first you don't succeed just keep on trying and you'll most likely achieve your goal. The writing is simple and easy to follow along with.
*Thanks to the authors for sending me a copy. I am voluntarily leaving my honest review*
4.5⭐ Genre ~ contemporary romance Series ~ Smart is Seriously Sexy #1 Setting ~ Colorado Publication date ~ September 26, 2023 Est page Count ~ 218 (21 cha4.5⭐ Genre ~ contemporary romance Series ~ Smart is Seriously Sexy #1 Setting ~ Colorado Publication date ~ September 26, 2023 Est page Count ~ 218 (21 chapters +e) POV ~ dual 3rd Featuring ~ HS chemistry teacher, HS football coach, football, small town, slow burn, minimal steamage
Stacey (32) & Reece (40) 1 part quirky, intelligent h + 1 part hunky, easy going H = instant attraction
Stacey hasn't had much luck in the relationship department. Reece has an ex-wife who is not a great person. Both characters were so sweet, mature and fun. What I liked most is that they took time to get to know each other instead of diving right into a relationship. The author gets an A+ for no 3rd act breakup from me.
Side characters are great, especially Stacey's 3 BFF', Morgan, Tanith and Gia, who will each get their own book. Of course there are few characters that make things difficult and really need a good kick between the goal posts.
There's quite a bit of emphasis on Reece being new to town and trying to fill the shoes of the former coach. The small town pretty much lives and breaths football. I like football well enough, but I could have went for a little more on the chemistry side of things. Some repetition of phrases, too, but other than that I really enjoyed this one.
*Thanks to the author for sending me a copy. I am voluntarily leaving my honest review*
4.15⭐ Genre ~ rockstar romance Series ~ Sovereign Kings, #1 Setting ~ Los Angeles, California Publication date ~ October 19, 2023 Page Count ~ 424 (40 cha4.15⭐ Genre ~ rockstar romance Series ~ Sovereign Kings, #1 Setting ~ Los Angeles, California Publication date ~ October 19, 2023 Page Count ~ 424 (40 chapters +e) POV ~ dual 1st Featuring ~ found family, best friend's brother, sister's best friend, opposites attract, slow burn, virgin, some steamage, no 3rd act break up
CW/TW from the author: explicit sexual content, profanity, mention of parent death, mention of absentee parent, mention of drug abuse, mention of child neglect, body shaming by other character.
Conway & Sienna Conway is the lead singer in the most popular band in the world, a real playboy that's not into relationships. Sienna is not looking to be a one night stand, so when he propositions her she shoots him down good. They form a cute, supportive friendship, though.
Sienna hates the spotlight, but she's desperate for money, so when an opportunity to become a model arises she jumps at the chance. I really liked how she wanted to stay true to herself and only modeled for reputable companies that are big on making a difference and are eco friendly. Her commitment to Leola and Ruth, who raised her from a young age, was admirable. She's quite an independent and strong woman who doesn't take any crap. Even though Conway is a gazillionaire she still insisted on paying her way and not taking any handouts. I loved when she took him out to a play and was so excited for the $10 tickets, get that good deal, girl!
It took me a minute to warm up to Conway, but once I did I was loving his commitment to Sienna. He falls first!!
It was a bit of a slow burn as they really got to know each other first, mostly on the phone, but I liked that build up. They both have a sad past, which increased their bond. They had great communication and I'm always thrilled when there's no 3rd act breakup!
Overall, a great series starter with a great bunch of side characters. Looking forward to reading about the rest of the band, which will surely be a treat!
*Thanks to the author for the ARC. I am voluntarily leaving my honest review*
*currently a goodreads giveaway going on if you fancy trying to win a print copy*
Genre ~ children's non-fiction (ages 5+) Publication date ~ January 31*currently a goodreads giveaway going on if you fancy trying to win a print copy*
Genre ~ children's non-fiction (ages 5+) Publication date ~ January 31, 2023 Est page Count ~ 48
We follow Pebbles, the butterfly, on his journey to find the biggest number. He visits the desert, the tropical rainforest, the beach, and a mountain.
What I loved the most: ~ that there is something to learn on every page that is specific to the area we're in and the animals interacted with, such as ~ did you know?, number note, science spot and fun facts ~ we are told and shown, as an example; 1 nonillion has 30 zeros. It looks like this: 1,000,000,000,000,000,000,000,000,000,000 ~ there's a glossary at the end that digs deeper into the words and numbers learned throughout the book ~ the illustrations by Laura Watson are vibrant and engaging
Unfortunately we don't see any giraffes, but since they are my favorite animal I thought I'd give you this fact I learned: While deserts get less than 10 inches (25 centimeters) of rainfall each year, tropical rainforests get up to 400 inches (1,000 centimeters). That’s enough rain to cover one giraffe standing on top of another!
This is a wonderfully informative book for little ones, and it's great for adults to brush up on their math and science knowledge as well. I can see why this has been nominated for a zillion awards...by the way apparently zillion is not a word, who knew?
*Thanks to the author for sending me a copy. I am voluntarily leaving my honest review*
Genre ~ children's fiction Publication date ~ August 12, 2023 Est page Count ~ 47 Audio length ~ 7 minutes Narrator ~ Amy Weaver
A wonderful man has shareGenre ~ children's fiction Publication date ~ August 12, 2023 Est page Count ~ 47 Audio length ~ 7 minutes Narrator ~ Amy Weaver
A wonderful man has shared a gift with the town of Upton in hopes it will revamp the town and bring the community together.
What I loved: ~ how most of the town thought about what they could do with their gift to help others, not just themselves ~ the ideas they had were a great way to bring the residents together ~ the acorn phase facts accompanied by the growth chart is a great learning moment ~ how one person's kindness can be the start of something positive for so many ~ the questions the author poses at the end to get young readers thinking about what they can do to spread kindness and help others is a nice touch to promote family discussions ~ the illustrations by Rhiannon Thomas do a nice job of showing the town thriving, then decrepit and back to thriving again
I thought it was a good idea to include one 'bad seed' family to show that everything in life is not always positive, but it's what you can do on your own to try to make a difference.
A lovely little story perfect for young readers ages 3-8.
Narration notes: I did not listen to this one, but am just giving the info above for reference.
*Thanks to the author for sending me a copy. I am voluntarily leaving my honest review*
3.5⭐ Genre ~ billionaire romance Series ~ Seattle CEO #1 Others in the series ~ Rival to the Billionaire, Nanny for the Billionaire Setting ~ Seattle Publi3.5⭐ Genre ~ billionaire romance Series ~ Seattle CEO #1 Others in the series ~ Rival to the Billionaire, Nanny for the Billionaire Setting ~ Seattle Publication date ~ March 17, 2023 Est page Count ~ 322 (29 chapters +e) POV ~ dual 1st Featuring ~ debut, billionaire, slow burn, workplace romance, minimal steamage
Mia & Derek meet when she's a waitress at his favorite Italian restaurant. He's always been a bit of a rude customer, which we don't really see and are just told about. She's not the best waitress really and after a particularly tough night she walks out on her shift and they go bar hopping together. He's enthralled with her right away and offers her a job as his assistant in his publishing company.
I like when my billionaires are not overly billionairey, and Derek is just that and doesn't flash his money all around the place. Yes he has a driver and drives a Lambo himself and buys her wardrobe, but that's pretty much it. He's in the midst of a scandal that could prove dire to his business.
Mia has trouble trusting after a difficult breakup with her cheating fiance. Her true passion is photography and she has her eye on a very pricey camera, so she needs money quickly so she can enter a contest. She accepts Derek's job offer, but also has another one on the line that could make things messy, and oh boy does it, which wasn't surprising in the least.
I liked Derek's friendship with his right hand woman and childhood best friend, Jenny, who will star in the next installment with Derek's brother, Ryder. We get a glimpse of how their story is going to be full on enemies to lovers.
My few niggles: ~ excessive use of the full name of the publishing company and Derek ~ Christina (Tina), why name her Christina if she's only going to call her Tina? ~ speaking of Tina she goes on and on about Mia's use of crystals
I did enjoy it, but they were a bit frustrating to me. I know they both have issues from their past that makes them apprehensive, but I needed them to figure themselves out a lot quicker than they did, which would have helped me feel their chemistry better. Overall, this is a solid debut, though.
*Thanks to the author's assistant, Zunaira, for sending me a copy. I am voluntarily leaving my honest review*
4.5⭐ Genre ~ middle grade fiction Series ~ Softball Strikeout #1 Setting ~ Greenville (not sure where that is) Publication date ~ July 5, 2023 Est page Cou4.5⭐ Genre ~ middle grade fiction Series ~ Softball Strikeout #1 Setting ~ Greenville (not sure where that is) Publication date ~ July 5, 2023 Est page Count ~ 112 (13 chapters) POV ~ single 3rd Featuring ~ softball, friendships, supportive characters
A lovely story that follows Olivia as she navigates making new friends and joining a new softball team after her and her parents move to a new town.
It's hard to make new friends at any age. I love that Olivia put herself out there and used her love of softball as a common factor when taking a chance. There are not any mean girls in this story, and that's a breath of fresh air, especially for the ages of the characters. They are supportive and all seem pretty mature for their age, too. The added illustrations help to paint the picture of the story wonderfully.
Small side note ~ both Olivia's father and her coach are named, Frank. Seems weird to have 2 characters with the same name.
Overall, a delightful start to a new series that will follow Olivia and her family and friends, and their love of softball of course. Perfect for middle schoolers, fans of sports or anyone looking for a feel good story about friendship.
*Thanks to the author for sending me a copy. I am voluntarily leaving my honest review*
2.5⭐ Genre ~ lesbian romance Setting ~ Philadelphia, PA Publication date ~ July 27, 2023 Est page Count ~303 (35 chapters) POV ~ dual 3rd Featuring ~ charac2.5⭐ Genre ~ lesbian romance Setting ~ Philadelphia, PA Publication date ~ July 27, 2023 Est page Count ~303 (35 chapters) POV ~ dual 3rd Featuring ~ characters in their late 30's, grief, death of a loved one from cancer, second chance at happiness, slow burn, minimal steamage
Avery & Jo Avery is trying to talk herself into being ready to move on 5 years after the death of her partner, Jackie. She answers Jo's ad offering services for those struggling with their sexuality. Once Avery finds out what Jo's job really entails she has a tough time accepting it and their relationship is on a slippery slope from there on out.
I know they both are apprehensive to get into a relationship, and I can appreciate that everyone grieves at their own pace, but they were just too frustrating for me with their back and forth and all over the place.
What was most enjoyable for me was Avery's dog, Barnaby, and how they both had a wonderful set of supportive friends, which was really nice to see. There was a bit of a health scare that did a great job of bringing awareness sounding that, but their individually reactions in the days after left me more frustrated with them.
Avery and Jo were first introduced in Sam's Working From Home series, which I have not read, and this book continues their narrative. While it's stated that this is a standalone I am wondering if I might have enjoyed this one more if I had already met them, instead of just getting their backstory here.
Overall, I feel this one would appeal to those that enjoy a slow burn romance that includes a diverse cast of characters.
*Thanks to the author for sending me a copy. I am voluntarily leaving my honest review*
no ⭐ rating Genre ~ fiction Setting ~ Australia, New Zealand, Saudi Arabia, Jordan, Singapore, UK, Canada, and USA Publication date ~ June 10, 2023 Est pano ⭐ rating Genre ~ fiction Setting ~ Australia, New Zealand, Saudi Arabia, Jordan, Singapore, UK, Canada, and USA Publication date ~ June 10, 2023 Est page Count ~ 257 (23 titled chapters) POV ~ single 1st
Will and Rodney are working on writing a book together because they’re broke and how hard can it be? Turns out it’s very hard.
Was the book they’re writing pretty ridiculous? Sure was but it was kinda funny, too.
Overall this book was not for me, but I did like the following: ~ the quirky, original title ~ how the author donates all proceeds of the sale of this book to The Butterfly Trust, a New Zealand registered charity ~ the surprisingly sad ending ~ the fun facts at the end of each chapter, such as: Catfish can taste through their bottoms Octopuses have nine brains, three hearts, and blue blood Did you know that whales have belly buttons? There are 20 quadrillion ants in the world. That’s 2.5 million for each person
Side note ~ bro word count ~ 57
Currently the best price in 30 days on Amazon if you're curious.
*Thanks to the author for sending me a copy. I am voluntarily leaving my honest review*
Heather Adores Books
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