The Plight Before Christmas is a great feel-good, happily ever after story. I fell in love with this family, and would absolutely read more about any of the family members. Each character has their own distinct personality, and they all stand out on their own. I never had a problem remembering who Serena is vs. Erin.

Whitney and Eli were not what I expected. I immediately liked Eli as a character instead of hating him for the past breakup between him and Whitney. As the story goes on, he easily fits in with the family, and plays an integral role in their holiday vacation.

Whitney was almost too relatable for me (not a bad thing!). It felt as if I was looking into the future at one point. One argument between her and Eli had me in tears, not because of her pain, but because of the truth in his words.

I definitely went into this book unsure of how I would feel about it. The idea of holding onto feelings for 17 years felt weird. But, as soon as I got to *that* scene, it all clicked. Trust me, if that is part of why you're unsure of the story and if you should read it- it's worth it. You will understand when you read it!

Washed Up by Kandi Steiner

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lighthearted medium-paced

Plot- or character-driven? Character
Strong character development? Yes
Loveable characters? It's complicated
Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

3.0

This isn't your typical age-gap romance (or what at least what I'd describe as typical). Greg was childhood best friends with Amanda's son, David. This would normally turn me off immediately. But, when I realized that Amanda had David as a teenager, my mindset changed. Amanda is in the process of finalizing her divorce from David's father, an abusive alcoholic, and is back in school to earn a degree in psychology. She really does embody the "age is not important" attitude.

When Greg and Amanda are out on their 'adventures,' the age difference doesn't exist. They already had a connection years ago, and it's like they pick up right where they left off. Passion and angst included. They joked together, experienced new things together, and found it easy to be open with one another. The ups and downs of Amanda and Greg's friendship and romantic relationship goes through pretty much every extreme imaginable.

I'm so glad I didn't let the age difference prevent me from reading this book. I've never read anything written by Kandi Steiner, but I will absolutely be exploring more of her titles this year. If you're looking for a slow, slow, slow burn, Washed Up is absolutely for you!

Fired Up by K.K. Allen

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funny lighthearted medium-paced

Plot- or character-driven? Character
Strong character development? Yes
Loveable characters? Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.25

I read it in one sitting. I couldn't put it down. The more Asher and Meadow I got, the more I wanted. Their relationship has such a great level of humor, raw honesty, and of course, spice. Asher's compassion for others only makes him more appealing (along with many other things).

Tate is the cutest little boy. His father, Meadow's first husband, was a police office shot in the line of duty before Tate was born. He reminds me of Tally from There's Always Someday. From day 1, Asher makes a point to get to know Tate and form a relationship with him. Which obviously, made me love Asher even more. The moments that Asher and Tate share make it impossible to root for this couple, and their forming family.

Asher is the hero love interest you dream about at night. I know if Mr. January turned up at my doorstep I wouldn't turn him away. I couldn't put this book down. From the moment I read the excerpt at the end of Screwed Up, I fell in love with Asher Moore

While Asher is the character that pulled me in, Meadow and her son kept me invested in the story. Tate's immediate bond with Asher was so endearing and gave the book a perfect balance between spice and wholesome. Meadow never comes across as a damsel. She's a strong, creative woman even though she's struggling when the book begins. While her relationship with Asher helps bring her out of her shell, she never comes off as timid. Meadow Matthews is the perfect match for Tampa's most wanted man.

Cruel Paradise by J.T. Geissinger

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mysterious fast-paced