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drops_everything_and_reads's Reviews (1.2k)
adventurous
emotional
funny
hopeful
inspiring
lighthearted
relaxing
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:
Yes
Thanks to Atria Books I received an eARC of @marthabwaters newest book Christmas is all around, her first contemporary book that has a sneaky tie in to her regency vows series that I IMMEDIATELY DM’d Martha about when I saw it.
I’m giving this book 16/10🎄bc I can.
This book is about a woman, Charlotte,, who greatly dislikes Christmas in large part due to having starred in one of the most popular Christmas movies when she was a child. she is spending the Christmas holidays in London England with her sister and her family and is forced to participate in numerous Christmasy activities much to her chagrin. When attending a Christmas tree lighting event, she ends up meeting Graham and the serendipitous meeting is the start of not only a business relationship, but a romantic one as well.
And that begins a story of humor, family, lots of Christmas, and perhaps not letting go of the past, but accepting it and being able to move forward
My Thoughts:
I’ve binged-read this book in one afternoon because I enjoyed it so so much. I am a fan of Martha’s books and her writing. I think fans of the Regency vows series will thoroughly enjoy this book because it has all the hallmarks of Martha’s wonderful writing – humor, family, friends, shenanigans, and love.
I like that the female main character is very cynical about Christmas and she’s forced to reckon with this cynicism and navigate why she feels this way when she’s existing in the world in which Christmas is just coming out from all directions. So how can she find a way to live with Christmas in a way that she doesn’t have to be a super-uber Christmas fan, but how can experience it with more positivity than what she currently does.
This is definitely a book I would happily read each Christmas season and I hope that somebody out there decides to turn it into a movie because I think it would be a wonderful visual experience as well.
If you are looking for a book to start to get into the Christmas spirit, definitely check this one out I think lots of people will enjoy it.
I’m giving this book 16/10🎄bc I can.
This book is about a woman, Charlotte,, who greatly dislikes Christmas in large part due to having starred in one of the most popular Christmas movies when she was a child. she is spending the Christmas holidays in London England with her sister and her family and is forced to participate in numerous Christmasy activities much to her chagrin. When attending a Christmas tree lighting event, she ends up meeting Graham and the serendipitous meeting is the start of not only a business relationship, but a romantic one as well.
And that begins a story of humor, family, lots of Christmas, and perhaps not letting go of the past, but accepting it and being able to move forward
My Thoughts:
I’ve binged-read this book in one afternoon because I enjoyed it so so much. I am a fan of Martha’s books and her writing. I think fans of the Regency vows series will thoroughly enjoy this book because it has all the hallmarks of Martha’s wonderful writing – humor, family, friends, shenanigans, and love.
I like that the female main character is very cynical about Christmas and she’s forced to reckon with this cynicism and navigate why she feels this way when she’s existing in the world in which Christmas is just coming out from all directions. So how can she find a way to live with Christmas in a way that she doesn’t have to be a super-uber Christmas fan, but how can experience it with more positivity than what she currently does.
This is definitely a book I would happily read each Christmas season and I hope that somebody out there decides to turn it into a movie because I think it would be a wonderful visual experience as well.
If you are looking for a book to start to get into the Christmas spirit, definitely check this one out I think lots of people will enjoy it.
emotional
funny
hopeful
mysterious
medium-paced
Thanks dellromance l for the eARC of Best Hex Ever by Nadia El-Fassi and I’m so sorry I’m super late posting a review on social media! I’ll bring you some Canadian candies next time I’m in NYC to beg forgiveness. 🍬🍫
Okay, first off, I’m a sucker for a witchy romance. I love them. They delight me to no end, which is why I picked three other witchy romances to recommend if you are looking for something with similar vibes
Deja Brew by Celestine Martin
The Wedding Witch by Erin Sterling
Perfectly Wicked by Lindsay Lovise
In Best Hex Ever, Dina, the witchy FMC, is a kitchen witch who can incorporate her magic into the food she creates. Scott, the MMC, is a museum curator who visits Dina’s London cafe and is immediately attracted to her, as she is to him. But. Dina has horrible luck with love because of a hex that prevents her from having a healthy, loving romance with someone.
Meanwhile, Scott is readjusting to living back in the UK after traveling the world for awhile following an awful breakup. His confidence was shaken by the breakup but he’s determined to see if he can make it work with Dina.
The two end up spending a lot of time together as they visit Dina’s hometown, where her best friend and Scott’s best friend are getting married. They end up sharing a small cottage together which means a lot of opportunity to get to know each other in many different ways…. Hehehehe. Dina also opens up to Scott about her magical abilities and the hex.
I really enjoyed the journey that Dina goes on to learn to trust herself again as she explores how to lift the hex so that she can move forward with Scott in a healthy relationship. Part of this journey includes her parents, and trusting them more with parts of herself she previously hid. Dina needs to find ways to be secure and proud of her magical abilities, to find her confidence, and to forgive herself for past mistakes.
I believe this is the author’s debut book, and I’ll definitely be excited to read more from her in the future!
Okay, first off, I’m a sucker for a witchy romance. I love them. They delight me to no end, which is why I picked three other witchy romances to recommend if you are looking for something with similar vibes
Deja Brew by Celestine Martin
The Wedding Witch by Erin Sterling
Perfectly Wicked by Lindsay Lovise
In Best Hex Ever, Dina, the witchy FMC, is a kitchen witch who can incorporate her magic into the food she creates. Scott, the MMC, is a museum curator who visits Dina’s London cafe and is immediately attracted to her, as she is to him. But. Dina has horrible luck with love because of a hex that prevents her from having a healthy, loving romance with someone.
Meanwhile, Scott is readjusting to living back in the UK after traveling the world for awhile following an awful breakup. His confidence was shaken by the breakup but he’s determined to see if he can make it work with Dina.
The two end up spending a lot of time together as they visit Dina’s hometown, where her best friend and Scott’s best friend are getting married. They end up sharing a small cottage together which means a lot of opportunity to get to know each other in many different ways…. Hehehehe. Dina also opens up to Scott about her magical abilities and the hex.
I really enjoyed the journey that Dina goes on to learn to trust herself again as she explores how to lift the hex so that she can move forward with Scott in a healthy relationship. Part of this journey includes her parents, and trusting them more with parts of herself she previously hid. Dina needs to find ways to be secure and proud of her magical abilities, to find her confidence, and to forgive herself for past mistakes.
I believe this is the author’s debut book, and I’ll definitely be excited to read more from her in the future!
adventurous
emotional
funny
hopeful
lighthearted
relaxing
fast-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:
Yes
Huge thanks to Entangled Publishing and the author for the ARC of Emma Theriault’s historical romance, A Lady Would Know Better.
While we keep hearing that historical romance is “dead” I know I’m not alone in refusing to accept this! Let me know in the comments if you’re a HissyRoNo fan and your faves!
This romp of a romance pubs January 28, 2025, which means if you’re in Canada, you can buy it during the GST/HST tax break and save some money!!!!
I thoroughly enjoyed reading ALWKB; strong female characters, a family of siblings who are devoted to each other, shenanigans, mystery….
Readers should be aware that grief is very present in the book; all deaths are off page and before the book starts, but they are referenced. Be gentle with your heart if you choose to read this book.
Emma writes so well - even amidst the themes of grief and loss, there is so much humour. She writes her characters with care, making them fully dimensional (even when the FMC is dealing with amnesia!) and this made me root for the FMC and MMC while also not-so-secretly hoping we get stories for the siblings so we can spend time with each of them.
If you enjoyed Duchess Material, Ne’er Duke Well, or Hot Earl Summer, I think you’ll enjoy this one.
While we keep hearing that historical romance is “dead” I know I’m not alone in refusing to accept this! Let me know in the comments if you’re a HissyRoNo fan and your faves!
This romp of a romance pubs January 28, 2025, which means if you’re in Canada, you can buy it during the GST/HST tax break and save some money!!!!
I thoroughly enjoyed reading ALWKB; strong female characters, a family of siblings who are devoted to each other, shenanigans, mystery….
Readers should be aware that grief is very present in the book; all deaths are off page and before the book starts, but they are referenced. Be gentle with your heart if you choose to read this book.
Emma writes so well - even amidst the themes of grief and loss, there is so much humour. She writes her characters with care, making them fully dimensional (even when the FMC is dealing with amnesia!) and this made me root for the FMC and MMC while also not-so-secretly hoping we get stories for the siblings so we can spend time with each of them.
If you enjoyed Duchess Material, Ne’er Duke Well, or Hot Earl Summer, I think you’ll enjoy this one.
adventurous
hopeful
lighthearted
mysterious
fast-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
Plot
Strong character development:
No
Loveable characters:
Yes
Diverse cast of characters:
No
adventurous
emotional
funny
hopeful
inspiring
fast-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:
Yes
If so, you gotta check out Clean Point by @megjoneswrites which is the FIRST in a sports romance series about tennis players!
I don't play tennis, but I love to watch and tennis fans know that January means Australian Open and the start of a new season! So what better time to pick up Meg's newest book and dive deep into the tennis world?
I love this enemies-to-lovers romance with both Scottie and Nick seeking a comeback in the professional tennis world, but for very different reasons. Scottie won Wimbledon but after a failed drug test and a ban from playing, has been partying around the world. Nick has been dealing with injuries and is trying to come back for one last win before retiring. And while they are seeking glory in singles tennis, their coach challenges them to take on pairs tennis, too, forcing them to spend A LOT of time together.
Over time, Scottie and Nick get to know each other, learn to open up and trust each other, their feelings grow and they become each other's biggest supporter.
There's lots of banter, sexy scenes, emotions, and more. Meg is a brilliant writer and I hope lots of people pick up this book!
I'm so excited for the rest of the books in the series, but if you want to read more by Meg now, check out her debut book, Invisible String, which she self-published.
I don't play tennis, but I love to watch and tennis fans know that January means Australian Open and the start of a new season! So what better time to pick up Meg's newest book and dive deep into the tennis world?
I love this enemies-to-lovers romance with both Scottie and Nick seeking a comeback in the professional tennis world, but for very different reasons. Scottie won Wimbledon but after a failed drug test and a ban from playing, has been partying around the world. Nick has been dealing with injuries and is trying to come back for one last win before retiring. And while they are seeking glory in singles tennis, their coach challenges them to take on pairs tennis, too, forcing them to spend A LOT of time together.
Over time, Scottie and Nick get to know each other, learn to open up and trust each other, their feelings grow and they become each other's biggest supporter.
There's lots of banter, sexy scenes, emotions, and more. Meg is a brilliant writer and I hope lots of people pick up this book!
I'm so excited for the rest of the books in the series, but if you want to read more by Meg now, check out her debut book, Invisible String, which she self-published.
funny
lighthearted
medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
A mix
Have you ever finished a book with beloved characters and wondered "what happens to them after the book ends? what do they do next???"
Well, Vanessa Kelly helps to answer that for beloved Jane Austen characters Emma Woodhouse and George Knightly in the first book in her new historical mystery series that has Emma solving murders in her small village in the English countryside!
This book was a delight to read and it is obvious that the author is a big fan of Jane Austen and intends for the series to be a. tribute to Jane and Emma. The characterization of Emma, George, Mr. Woodhouse, Harriett and other characters is an absolute delight and the seeds have been planted for further character arcs in future books.
The murder mystery itself was fun to follow and the clues scattered throughout the pages all made sense once the killer is revealed. Emma is perfectly positioned to be an amateur sleuth, what with being a beloved member of the village, the wife of the magistrate, and simply being a determined, feisty, curious person.
A wonderful book and I'll definitely be reading future books in the series, in addition to exploring Vanessa's backlist.
I do not want to imagine a world without Lyla Sage's Blue Rebel series in it because these book are fantastic.
The build up to Teddy and Gus's book started in book one and we all knew that it was going to be off the charts entertaining and romantic and spicy and it was all that and more.
In this book, Lyla was able to take two people who have been 'enemies' for years, and guide them through their journey of finding love with one another in a way that is tender, and soft, and vulnerable, and honest, and steamy.
It seems so right that Gus and Teddy, the two people who feel like they have to hold it altogether for everyone else, learn that with each other, they can let down their guards, revealing secret truths, finding comfort in each other, and understanding one another like no one else does.
Add in Gus's adorable kid, Riley, and it just goes to another level. Gus is such a superb father, and Riley really helps to show his super-soft side to Teddy.
It's also great to catch up with the other characters of Blue Rebel, though that only made me pine even more for Dusty and Cam's story and am so excited to read that one!
I also like that the books are a bit shorter than the average romance, making it a quick read that just hits all the feels in the right way.
Thanks to Dial Press for the eARC; All opinions are my own.
The build up to Teddy and Gus's book started in book one and we all knew that it was going to be off the charts entertaining and romantic and spicy and it was all that and more.
In this book, Lyla was able to take two people who have been 'enemies' for years, and guide them through their journey of finding love with one another in a way that is tender, and soft, and vulnerable, and honest, and steamy.
It seems so right that Gus and Teddy, the two people who feel like they have to hold it altogether for everyone else, learn that with each other, they can let down their guards, revealing secret truths, finding comfort in each other, and understanding one another like no one else does.
Add in Gus's adorable kid, Riley, and it just goes to another level. Gus is such a superb father, and Riley really helps to show his super-soft side to Teddy.
It's also great to catch up with the other characters of Blue Rebel, though that only made me pine even more for Dusty and Cam's story and am so excited to read that one!
I also like that the books are a bit shorter than the average romance, making it a quick read that just hits all the feels in the right way.
Thanks to Dial Press for the eARC; All opinions are my own.
This is a fun book from Amber Roberts!
Overall, I enjoyed it, but there were some parts I was unsure about. I wasn't too keen on the FMC, Lex, knowingly leading the MMC, James, on with respect to his job and the presence (or lack thereof) of ghosts. I just really don't like pranks/jokes that impact on someone's employment.
I did like and appreciate the growth that Lex goes through in the book, of being a misunderstood daughter who desperately needs support and encouragement and just can't find it from her family, to really taking ownership of her life, career, and her place in the community.
This was a fun, cozy read, that gave me Hallmark movie vibes (which works for me).
Thanks to Alcove Press for the eARC; all opinions are my own.
Overall, I enjoyed it, but there were some parts I was unsure about. I wasn't too keen on the FMC, Lex, knowingly leading the MMC, James, on with respect to his job and the presence (or lack thereof) of ghosts. I just really don't like pranks/jokes that impact on someone's employment.
I did like and appreciate the growth that Lex goes through in the book, of being a misunderstood daughter who desperately needs support and encouragement and just can't find it from her family, to really taking ownership of her life, career, and her place in the community.
This was a fun, cozy read, that gave me Hallmark movie vibes (which works for me).
Thanks to Alcove Press for the eARC; all opinions are my own.
Another great instalment in the Lady Adler Mystery series from Katharine Schellman!
I always get excited when a new book in the series is released as I continue to grow more and more fond of Lady Adler, her family, and Captain Jack Hartley with each book.
In this instalment, there are two mysteries for Lady Adler to solve; one involves a young woman who needs assistance to access her inheritance, and the other involves the potential growing of poison in a flower window box.
Of course, things aren't always what they seem to be, and the two mysteries are actually linked. The way Schellman is able to take us on the journey to build the links and to find a satisfying conclusion is part of the fun of reading mystery books, for me. She builds the evidence into the story in such subtle ways that by the time we reach the conclusion, we know it is the only conclusion to come too, but we don't necessarily get there before Lady Adler and her friends do.
I look forward to the next book in the series and will continue to recommend this book and series to fellow readers of historical mysteries with some romance in it!
Thanks to Crooked Lane Books for an eARC; all opinions are my own.
I always get excited when a new book in the series is released as I continue to grow more and more fond of Lady Adler, her family, and Captain Jack Hartley with each book.
In this instalment, there are two mysteries for Lady Adler to solve; one involves a young woman who needs assistance to access her inheritance, and the other involves the potential growing of poison in a flower window box.
Of course, things aren't always what they seem to be, and the two mysteries are actually linked. The way Schellman is able to take us on the journey to build the links and to find a satisfying conclusion is part of the fun of reading mystery books, for me. She builds the evidence into the story in such subtle ways that by the time we reach the conclusion, we know it is the only conclusion to come too, but we don't necessarily get there before Lady Adler and her friends do.
I look forward to the next book in the series and will continue to recommend this book and series to fellow readers of historical mysteries with some romance in it!
Thanks to Crooked Lane Books for an eARC; all opinions are my own.
