Take a photo of a barcode or cover
amberisalwaysreading86's reviews
1102 reviews
If You Love Me by Helena Hunting
emotional
funny
hopeful
lighthearted
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? N/A
5.0
Roman And Lexi’s book was my most anticipated read in the Toronto Terror series,and I am so happy that Helena gave us two fantastic characters whose relationship was so genuine and meaningful. I absolutely loved their dynamic and the connection that was built between the two of them felt so natural and I enjoyed watching it unfold.
Roman has played such a huge role in the lives of his teammates, and daughter. Being a father,mentor and leader while putting everyone’s needs above his own meant that I was rooting for him to have the most epic love story. I loved his interactions with Lexi.
Heat, heart and humor…this book had it in spades, and I highly recommend this story to anyone who is a sports romance fiend!
Roman has played such a huge role in the lives of his teammates, and daughter. Being a father,mentor and leader while putting everyone’s needs above his own meant that I was rooting for him to have the most epic love story. I loved his interactions with Lexi.
Heat, heart and humor…this book had it in spades, and I highly recommend this story to anyone who is a sports romance fiend!
My Dark Prince by L.J. Shen, Parker S. Huntington
emotional
funny
inspiring
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? N/A
4.5
This is Parker and LJ Shen at their best..the entire series brings on a whirlwind of emotions and realistic views of life ,friendship and love. This story however,is my favorite of the trilogy!
Great characters,world building, humor and heart,I loved it.
Great characters,world building, humor and heart,I loved it.
The Carver by Penelope Sky
adventurous
dark
emotional
mysterious
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated
5.0
I DEVOURED this book,and it was a wild,nonstop ride that careened forward at an intensely fast pace until ending in a cliffhanger that has placed me in such a slump,I know I won’t smile again until I receive book three.
Bastien and Fleur have crazy good chemistry,and an intense love story that burns hot and leaves the reader wanting more. I am dying for the next and final installment in this trilogy.
Bastien and Fleur have crazy good chemistry,and an intense love story that burns hot and leaves the reader wanting more. I am dying for the next and final installment in this trilogy.
Most Likely to Fear Love by Mary Waterford
emotional
hopeful
inspiring
sad
slow-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? No
4.0
This was a heartwarming story, with authentic characters whose personal trials made for a perfect backdrop to discuss topics such as:
•processing grief
•loyalty
•redemption
•overcoming trauma /childhood abuse
•using therapy to heal from narcissistic relationships
•friendship
•companionship
•paying it forward
As heavy as some of these topics are, they are handled with grace, and in such a respectful manner by the author.
There was so much personal growth and healing that takes place in both of the main character’s lives,and their story ends on such a high note,it left me smiling for hours.
Most Likely to Fear Love is a fantastic beginning to this series, and I thoroughly enjoyed being in this world for a few hours.
If I had only one thing to critique,it would be that the main theme of this book was for an occurrence which never came to fruition,and I felt quite disappointed by that. The book changed direction a bit abruptly,so I can only assume that the next installment of this series will have a happy conclusion for this couple.
⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
🌶️🌶️
•processing grief
•loyalty
•redemption
•overcoming trauma /childhood abuse
•using therapy to heal from narcissistic relationships
•friendship
•companionship
•paying it forward
As heavy as some of these topics are, they are handled with grace, and in such a respectful manner by the author.
There was so much personal growth and healing that takes place in both of the main character’s lives,and their story ends on such a high note,it left me smiling for hours.
Most Likely to Fear Love is a fantastic beginning to this series, and I thoroughly enjoyed being in this world for a few hours.
If I had only one thing to critique,it would be that the main theme of this book was for an occurrence which never came to fruition,and I felt quite disappointed by that. The book changed direction a bit abruptly,so I can only assume that the next installment of this series will have a happy conclusion for this couple.
⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
🌶️🌶️
Safe Bet by A.L. Woods
dark
emotional
hopeful
sad
tense
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? No
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.0
What an ending! While it was a cliffhanger,it definitely packed more of a punch than I was expecting.
At its core,this is a story about breaking cycles,and building a future for oneself that doesn’t end in shame,disappointment or the fear to simply live on your own terms.
Belmira,our FMC has never been given the luxury of envisioning a life or future for herself that doesn’t involve her catering to her domineering mother’s every whim. We see patterns of mind control,and various forms of abuse in her everyday life,and I truly believe if her mother could control how many breaths she took each minute, she’d jump at the chance.
It is heartbreaking to see, and after reading the author’s note, I see that the cultural references the book contains, and a community that is complicit in the abuse, only made it harder for the character to feel any sort of freedom or the ability to feel hopefulness that she had a means to escape. As a modern woman, my first response is always that the character doesn’t have to take what is being shelled out, she could just leave. But upon further reading, we see that the social constraints, as well as the weaponization of funding, prevents her from any real sense of freedom or the ability to leave her situation.
Felix is an interesting MMC in that he has no real motivation for anything that he does other than his own pleasure or gratification. It’s apparent that he feels no sense of responsibility for anyone but himself and the perpetuation of the “golden male” in his family dynamic only serves to further his understanding that he can do no wrong, and only has to live for himself until…well,until he doesn’t have to.
The slow realization that he should have more to offer, and that he should want more, not only for himself, but for his future bride was fascinating to read, and I appreciate that the author let him come to this understanding and experience emotional development after one very important interaction. Sometimes it takes one person to change the course of our future.
Overall, this was a great start to a trilogy and the emotional connection which the author had with her characters was apparent for the reader.I look forward to the next installment, and to see Bel spread her wings and experience all the joy that life has to offer.
At its core,this is a story about breaking cycles,and building a future for oneself that doesn’t end in shame,disappointment or the fear to simply live on your own terms.
Belmira,our FMC has never been given the luxury of envisioning a life or future for herself that doesn’t involve her catering to her domineering mother’s every whim. We see patterns of mind control,and various forms of abuse in her everyday life,and I truly believe if her mother could control how many breaths she took each minute, she’d jump at the chance.
It is heartbreaking to see, and after reading the author’s note, I see that the cultural references the book contains, and a community that is complicit in the abuse, only made it harder for the character to feel any sort of freedom or the ability to feel hopefulness that she had a means to escape. As a modern woman, my first response is always that the character doesn’t have to take what is being shelled out, she could just leave. But upon further reading, we see that the social constraints, as well as the weaponization of funding, prevents her from any real sense of freedom or the ability to leave her situation.
Felix is an interesting MMC in that he has no real motivation for anything that he does other than his own pleasure or gratification. It’s apparent that he feels no sense of responsibility for anyone but himself and the perpetuation of the “golden male” in his family dynamic only serves to further his understanding that he can do no wrong, and only has to live for himself until…well,until he doesn’t have to.
The slow realization that he should have more to offer, and that he should want more, not only for himself, but for his future bride was fascinating to read, and I appreciate that the author let him come to this understanding and experience emotional development after one very important interaction. Sometimes it takes one person to change the course of our future.
Overall, this was a great start to a trilogy and the emotional connection which the author had with her characters was apparent for the reader.I look forward to the next installment, and to see Bel spread her wings and experience all the joy that life has to offer.
Sterling Fight by L.B. Dunbar
emotional
funny
hopeful
inspiring
lighthearted
sad
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? No
5.0
This was such a heartwarming story showing that it’s never too late in life to seek a second chance with the person your heart longs for.
Judd is such a stalwart,stand up man. The details of his abuse at the hands of his grieving father,after the tragic loss of his mother pulled at my heartstrings. I just wanted to give him a hug.
I absolutely adored his strength of character,and strong moral compass. There’s nothing else to say,except that he’s perfect.
Genie is a fun and vivacious character,one,who has dealt with tragedies at a young age,but who’s pulled thru to make a life full of hopefulness,cherishing every day.
The loyalty she shows,and the love she has to give made her perfect for Judd. I appreciated the creativity she possessed being channeled into her unique calendar designs,and thought it made her a special FMC. I loved her positive attitude,and the way she pushed herself out of her comfort zone. We should all make each day count,and the reminder was refreshing.
The fact that these characters found their way back to each other at such a pivotal point in both of their lives was incredibly moving, and I love that they inherently knew how to support one another both emotionally, and physically while dealing with grief and childhood trauma in healthy ways.
Like all of her previous novels, this author has created a very special dynamic with a “right person/wrong time” storyline that is extremely memorable and sweet.
Judd is such a stalwart,stand up man. The details of his abuse at the hands of his grieving father,after the tragic loss of his mother pulled at my heartstrings. I just wanted to give him a hug.
I absolutely adored his strength of character,and strong moral compass. There’s nothing else to say,except that he’s perfect.
Genie is a fun and vivacious character,one,who has dealt with tragedies at a young age,but who’s pulled thru to make a life full of hopefulness,cherishing every day.
The loyalty she shows,and the love she has to give made her perfect for Judd. I appreciated the creativity she possessed being channeled into her unique calendar designs,and thought it made her a special FMC. I loved her positive attitude,and the way she pushed herself out of her comfort zone. We should all make each day count,and the reminder was refreshing.
The fact that these characters found their way back to each other at such a pivotal point in both of their lives was incredibly moving, and I love that they inherently knew how to support one another both emotionally, and physically while dealing with grief and childhood trauma in healthy ways.
Like all of her previous novels, this author has created a very special dynamic with a “right person/wrong time” storyline that is extremely memorable and sweet.
The Apple Tree by Jewel E. Ann
adventurous
emotional
funny
hopeful
inspiring
lighthearted
mysterious
sad
tense
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? No
5.0
“I love that you’ll never stop taking my breath away. And when I’m old, and on my deathbed, I’m going to give you this smile with my last breath, and doing so will be the greatest honor of my life.“
Not gonna lie, this book and its characters moved me to tears more than once.
Eve is one of those female characters that you just cannot help falling hopelessly in love with. Her precocious nature and devil-may- care attitude hides so much depth of emotion, and past traumas which she uses humor to deflect. Her home life was tough for me to read about, because I personally, share so much of her history.
Kyle is a charmer, self proclaimed math nerd, former football star and father to an adorable little boy. His chemistry with Eve and the various ways she reminds him of himself evoke a sense of nostalgia when you read their early interactions in the story.
The quick banter, shared smiles & winks, and heartwarming moments with Josh made me swoon.
On the surface, this is story of forbidden love, coming of age, and finding oneself. It’s also about feeling unconditional love and acceptance for your children without the need for control and dominance.
This multi layered series has brought about some of my own personal healing, and I don’t think it’s possible to feel more connected with characters. Once again, Jewel
has given her readers a time for quiet reflection, bravery, and a sense of yearning to break the weight of others expectations over our lives. The story is beautiful and it moved me.
I’m so looking forward to the third and final Jacobson sister,Gabby’s book!
Not gonna lie, this book and its characters moved me to tears more than once.
Eve is one of those female characters that you just cannot help falling hopelessly in love with. Her precocious nature and devil-may- care attitude hides so much depth of emotion, and past traumas which she uses humor to deflect. Her home life was tough for me to read about, because I personally, share so much of her history.
Kyle is a charmer, self proclaimed math nerd, former football star and father to an adorable little boy. His chemistry with Eve and the various ways she reminds him of himself evoke a sense of nostalgia when you read their early interactions in the story.
The quick banter, shared smiles & winks, and heartwarming moments with Josh made me swoon.
On the surface, this is story of forbidden love, coming of age, and finding oneself. It’s also about feeling unconditional love and acceptance for your children without the need for control and dominance.
This multi layered series has brought about some of my own personal healing, and I don’t think it’s possible to feel more connected with characters. Once again, Jewel
has given her readers a time for quiet reflection, bravery, and a sense of yearning to break the weight of others expectations over our lives. The story is beautiful and it moved me.
I’m so looking forward to the third and final Jacobson sister,Gabby’s book!
What's Left of Us by B. Celeste
dark
emotional
hopeful
inspiring
mysterious
sad
tense
medium-paced
5.0
While this story is quite a departure from B. Celeste’s usual brand of angsty romance, the added element of suspense and intrigue made for one heck of a novel!
I couldn’t put this story down,and I can wholeheartedly say that I was invested in these characters from the prologue.
If you enjoy books featuring:
•romantic suspense
•Right person,Wrong Time
•secret relationships
•marriage of convenience
•leads in law enforcement
•princess-in-the-tower vibes
You will thoroughly enjoy Georgia and Lincoln’s hard-won love story. Their forbidden affair made for the perfect combination of tension,angst, and just the perfect balance of heartache and healing.
I loved it!
5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
3.5 🌶️🌶️🌶️.🫑
I couldn’t put this story down,and I can wholeheartedly say that I was invested in these characters from the prologue.
If you enjoy books featuring:
•romantic suspense
•Right person,Wrong Time
•secret relationships
•marriage of convenience
•leads in law enforcement
•princess-in-the-tower vibes
You will thoroughly enjoy Georgia and Lincoln’s hard-won love story. Their forbidden affair made for the perfect combination of tension,angst, and just the perfect balance of heartache and healing.
I loved it!
5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
3.5 🌶️🌶️🌶️.🫑
The Butcher by Penelope Sky
adventurous
dark
emotional
mysterious
sad
tense
medium-paced
5.0
Bastien Bastien BastienI read this gem of a book today and HOLY. MOLY.
Bastien……😮💨😮💨😮💨😮💨😮💨😮💨
There is something to be said about the strong moral character this “bad boy ” possesses.
This man is sexiness personified .
His quiet strength and unquestionable authority are exactly what Fleur needs after finding out her husband of three years has played with her time and emotions.
It was refreshing to enjoy a MMC who is honest, at times to a fault.
Never leaving anything to be desired,always saying precisely what he means,asking for what he wants and delivering nothing but loyalty and respect to the FMC.
I could gush about his honesty all day.
I’m looking forward to finishing the series and seeing where multiple aspects of the plot in book one takes them in the future.
This book does not end on a cliffhanger, but it does leave you wanting more.
Heat, heart, and a happy ending are what we readers have to look forward to!
Bastien……😮💨😮💨😮💨😮💨😮💨😮💨
There is something to be said about the strong moral character this “bad boy ” possesses.
This man is sexiness personified .
His quiet strength and unquestionable authority are exactly what Fleur needs after finding out her husband of three years has played with her time and emotions.
It was refreshing to enjoy a MMC who is honest, at times to a fault.
Never leaving anything to be desired,always saying precisely what he means,asking for what he wants and delivering nothing but loyalty and respect to the FMC.
I could gush about his honesty all day.
I’m looking forward to finishing the series and seeing where multiple aspects of the plot in book one takes them in the future.
This book does not end on a cliffhanger, but it does leave you wanting more.
Heat, heart, and a happy ending are what we readers have to look forward to!
Chase Lovett Wants Me by Helena Hunting
5.0 out of 5 stars
adventurous
funny
lighthearted
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? No
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? No
5.0
5.0 out of 5 stars
Legolas,who?! Gimme some Chase
Reviewed in the United States on January 10, 2025
I thoroughly enjoyed this sweet and hilarious story coupling an adorable and quirky fanfic writing nerd & the hot jock who didn’t see her coming!!
I listened to the audio and the fantastic narrators added an additional layer of goodness as they blessed my ears with their sultry voices and steamy humor.
This story is set within Helena’s Toronto Terror universe and I loved getting bonus glimpses of some of our favorite past book characters and their siblings.
If you’re looking for a fun way to pass the time, check this book out!
I listened to the audio and the fantastic narrators added an additional layer of goodness as they blessed my ears with their sultry voices and steamy humor.
This story is set within Helena’s Toronto Terror universe and I loved getting bonus glimpses of some of our favorite past book characters and their siblings.
If you’re looking for a fun way to pass the time, check this book out!