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enchantingreads_rosyreviews's reviews
85 reviews
Namaste and Code All Day by Ally Williams
emotional
funny
hopeful
inspiring
reflective
tense
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.5
"She’s afraid of failure. She’s afraid of enlisting the help of her friends. Afraid of leaning on me if and when she needs to... I’d burn down cities to be needed by her. I’d do just about anything to hear her say fuck timing. Because as long as she thinks timing has absolutely anything to do with it, I’m one of two things: I’m either the guy who showed up at the right place and the right time, and I’m good enough, or I’m the guy she leaves when time dictates she finds her real person. I’m too far gone for either option. I want her to [be successful]... and then I want her to choose me.”
❤️🩹
Oh. My. Freaking. Gawd! This book was EVERYTHING I wanted in a sequel to this series. Don’t get me wrong, I loved the first book in the series, but it’s impossible to not fall in love with Gabi & Zeke. Their relationship develops in an organic way that feels earned in the most delicious way. Heavier themes of consent, emotional abuse, sense of worth, what “love” means, and other mental health matters are tackled in tasteful, realistic ways that don’t distract from the story’s entertainment. There were lots of pieces of Gabi I see in myself and many moments when Zeke proved himself the perfect partner. I absolutely cherished meeting these characters.
I genuinely loved the characters in this book and feel like you can totally read this one as a standalone (which is not something I, known for reading an author’s entire backlist for simple FOMO, say lightly). Gabi has had a history of difficult and gross men, each tarnishing her shiny armor a little when they leave, so she struggles with her worth and relying on others. Zeke had a past relationship that consumed him to the point of him only fulfilling the needs/dreams of others, until he left them to forge his own path by establishing his own life.
When these two find each other, their relationship isn’t easy. But it’s real in the most beautiful way. He supports her in a way she isn’t used to (and even tries to resist), while she cares about him beyond what he can do for her (making him value love in a way he never has before). This is a wonderful contemporary romance that delivers on all fronts and I highly recommend it!
🌕
Oh. My. Freaking. Gawd! This book was EVERYTHING I wanted in a sequel to this series. Don’t get me wrong, I loved the first book in the series, but it’s impossible to not fall in love with Gabi & Zeke. Their relationship develops in an organic way that feels earned in the most delicious way. Heavier themes of consent, emotional abuse, sense of worth, what “love” means, and other mental health matters are tackled in tasteful, realistic ways that don’t distract from the story’s entertainment. There were lots of pieces of Gabi I see in myself and many moments when Zeke proved himself the perfect partner. I absolutely cherished meeting these characters.
I genuinely loved the characters in this book and feel like you can totally read this one as a standalone (which is not something I, known for reading an author’s entire backlist for simple FOMO, say lightly). Gabi has had a history of difficult and gross men, each tarnishing her shiny armor a little when they leave, so she struggles with her worth and relying on others. Zeke had a past relationship that consumed him to the point of him only fulfilling the needs/dreams of others, until he left them to forge his own path by establishing his own life.
When these two find each other, their relationship isn’t easy. But it’s real in the most beautiful way. He supports her in a way she isn’t used to (and even tries to resist), while she cares about him beyond what he can do for her (making him value love in a way he never has before). This is a wonderful contemporary romance that delivers on all fronts and I highly recommend it!
🌕
“‘She’s sunshine, and I’m the clouds that dull her…’
‘Gabi, you’re moonlight.’ My breath catches in my throat. ‘You’re subtle and calm and protective. Thoughtful and resilient. Sure, Stephanie shines bright. No one’s going to argue that. But Gabi, you glow.’”
Content Warnings
Graphic: Sexual content
Moderate: Cursing, Sexual assault, Toxic relationship, and Alcohol
Minor: Addiction, Drug abuse, Emotional abuse, Panic attacks/disorders, Stalking, and Gaslighting
The female main character (FMC) learns to acknowledge her past relationships for the toxic, emotionally abusive, and sexual assault realities they were. With the help of a therapist, her sister, and the male main character, they revisit her past and work towards a healthier future. Nothing occurs on on page, but it's referred back to throughout the story.
Undeclared Heir by Irene Bahrd
At this point, I feel almost like an Irene Bahrd stan, but this is a side we haven’t seen of her we haven’t seen yet… and I love it. Of course, the usual “famous” Irene ingredients are present in this story, too. However, the comedy in this story was upped to the tenth degree. I mean, you wake up as a character in your favorite Regency-era romance and the swoony male main character now has eyes for you. What? Do you accept his “affection” (if you know, you know), or do you try to maintain the integrity of the original story? We shall see… but the cliffhanger here is criminal.
adventurous
funny
lighthearted
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Plot
- Strong character development? It's complicated
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated
4.5
"SMACK! My book hits my forehead and nose, narrowly missing my eye. I check the time, and, shit, how is it already two in the morning? I have work in four hours, but I need to know if James is going to take a fake wife… I already know. It’s the fourteenth time I’ve read this one... Fake dating is never fake. I’ve yet to read a book where they part ways to live their best lives separately and not madly in love."
At this point, I feel almost like an Irene Bahrd stan, but this is a side we haven’t seen of her we haven’t seen yet… and I love it. Of course, the usual “famous” Irene ingredients are present in this story, too. However, the comedy in this story was upped to the tenth degree. I mean, you wake up as a character in your favorite Regency-era romance and the swoony male main character now has eyes for you. What? Do you accept his “affection” (if you know, you know), or do you try to maintain the integrity of the original story? We shall see… but the cliffhanger here is criminal.
“’Right, yes. Of course. I am still tired. I meant a’—what the fuck is it called here?— ‘chamberpot...’ She retrieves what can only be explained as the fanciest porcelain bowl I’ve ever seen in my life. Do I squat? Do I hold it? ‘May I have some privacy?’ Damn, my accent is fucking amazing! Priv-ah-see. Whenever I wake up from this fever dream, I’m forever going to pronounce it this way.”
📖
As I said before, this cliffhanger was criminal! Irene totally warned us about it, but I wasn’t expecting THAT! (The series is aptly named... well done, Irene, well done.) Otherwise, this was such a fun read. I feel like everyone fantasizes about dropping into their favorite book, so to see that storyline play out was quite entertaining and mysterious. I simply cannot wait for Act II later this summer!!!
As I said before, this cliffhanger was criminal! Irene totally warned us about it, but I wasn’t expecting THAT! (The series is aptly named... well done, Irene, well done.) Otherwise, this was such a fun read. I feel like everyone fantasizes about dropping into their favorite book, so to see that storyline play out was quite entertaining and mysterious. I simply cannot wait for Act II later this summer!!!
Content Warnings
Moderate: Cursing and Sexual content
Minor: Misogyny
A Gentleman in Moscow by Amor Towles
adventurous
challenging
emotional
funny
hopeful
informative
inspiring
lighthearted
reflective
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
4.0
"They had created the poetry of silence. 'Yes, silence can be an opinion,' said Mishka. 'Silence can be a form of protest. It can be a means of survival. But it can also be a school of poetry—one with its own meter, tropes, and conventions. One that needn’t be written with pencils or pens; but that can be written in the soul with a revolver to the chest.'”
🏨
While the recent TV adaptation of this novel served as the catalyst to moving this up my TBR, I was pleasantly surprised by this story. Amor’s writing is unique because the Count’s voice (our MC & narrator)is never lost. When he sees something that triggers a memory from his youth, he tells us about it. When he watches people from the confines of the hotel, he gives us history lessons (in almost a footnote-style aside). And he comments on societal culture, especially how a gentleman would act in certain situations. The Count is a quirky character: talking to animals, finding the pitch of noises all around him, befriending an equally quirky little girl & watching her grow up. But this story is about how to maintain a sense of self, even when forced into confinement, and how to find or create your own village. No matter your circumstance, you can always find loved ones, stay true to who you are, and this beautiful story proves that.
While the recent TV adaptation of this novel served as the catalyst to moving this up my TBR, I was pleasantly surprised by this story. Amor’s writing is unique because the Count’s voice (our MC & narrator)is never lost. When he sees something that triggers a memory from his youth, he tells us about it. When he watches people from the confines of the hotel, he gives us history lessons (in almost a footnote-style aside). And he comments on societal culture, especially how a gentleman would act in certain situations. The Count is a quirky character: talking to animals, finding the pitch of noises all around him, befriending an equally quirky little girl & watching her grow up. But this story is about how to maintain a sense of self, even when forced into confinement, and how to find or create your own village. No matter your circumstance, you can always find loved ones, stay true to who you are, and this beautiful story proves that.
“’Looking back, it seems to me that there are people who play an essential role at every turn... men and women who routinely appear at critical junctures in the progress of art, or commerce, or the evolution of ideas—as if Life itself has summoned them once again to help fulfill its purpose. Well, since the day I was born, [redacted character name], there was only one time when Life needed me to be in a particular place at a particular time, and that was when your mother brought you to the lobby of the Metropol. And I would not accept the Tsarship of all the Russias in exchange for being in this hotel at that hour.’”
🪆
Truthfully, this book feels impossible to accurately describe succinctly because it's a literary work of art. If you like reading artistic writing that’s got comedy, history, and details the power of social relationships, then this book is for you. I especially appreciated learning about Russian history, a subject I’m not as familiar with. Although it took me a minute to adjust to Amor’s unique style of writing as the Count’s voice, I thoroughly enjoyed this book. The cast of characters are quirky, yet lovable, and this found family storyline following the Count’s life is full of heart.
Truthfully, this book feels impossible to accurately describe succinctly because it's a literary work of art. If you like reading artistic writing that’s got comedy, history, and details the power of social relationships, then this book is for you. I especially appreciated learning about Russian history, a subject I’m not as familiar with. Although it took me a minute to adjust to Amor’s unique style of writing as the Count’s voice, I thoroughly enjoyed this book. The cast of characters are quirky, yet lovable, and this found family storyline following the Count’s life is full of heart.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Confinement
Moderate: Alcohol and Classism
Minor: Cursing, Death, Suicidal thoughts, Xenophobia, and Suicide attempt
What It Means To Be Found by Andrea Andersen
emotional
funny
hopeful
informative
inspiring
lighthearted
reflective
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? It's complicated
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
5.0
“’I’m fine,’ I immediately spoke up, but my trembling gave me away. Logan stepped into my space, lifting his hands with a question on his face. ‘Please hold me,’ I whispered... I hid my face against his button-up shirt. His large hands made soothing passes down my back, my arms, my legs, my neck, whatever part of me he could touch. As if he was both trying to reassure me and himself that I was okay. That I was here, and that he had me.”
🤟🏻
After teasing us for two books, we FINALLY get to know more about these characters... and it totally pays off! Usually I’m not a big fan of the “miscommunication trope,” but Andrea makes it uniquely her own because Logan is only able to speak through ASL and Eloise doesn’t know much of the language. While he is forced to listen to her misunderstanding his signs or his cryptic facial expressions, he is unable to fully explain himself. Up until this point, Logan is always the quiet one in the corner (usually because Court’s dragged him to some event... hello, Mr. Grumpy Pants) because of his lack of verbal communication abilities and his disinterest in engaging with others via ASL.
But, adding to the depth of the story, we get Logan's POV throughout the book, which adds to the tension and makes us kick our feet in giddy entertainment. Now we get to know who he really is and we get to fall in love with him, which is what we always want in a romance. I mean, who doesn’t love a man who is BIG on explicit consent, willing to learn about how to be a better, more supportive partner (and actually follows through with actions!), likes to poke fun at people, cares about people deeply, lives with the literal scars of his pain, is always observing, and will fiercely protect those he loves.
And, Eloise? Gosh, I relate to her because I am also trying to grapple with my own detrimental people pleasing. But her growth from the first book is wonderful to observe and she quickly grows on you. I LOVED the development of Eloise and Logan’s relationship from the previous books to this one, they really go through it, eventually finding ways to express themselves. Their love story is beautiful in its imperfections with both characters growing into better people for themselves and for their partner. The tenderness between them feels earned, in a way I can’t fully describe, but it adds depth to the story that you will love. This truly feels like the perfect way to end this series! Bravo, Andrea! I’m excited to see what else Andrea writes, because I am such a fan, even if it’s hard to say goodbye to these characters for now... until the next reread!
After teasing us for two books, we FINALLY get to know more about these characters... and it totally pays off! Usually I’m not a big fan of the “miscommunication trope,” but Andrea makes it uniquely her own because Logan is only able to speak through ASL and Eloise doesn’t know much of the language. While he is forced to listen to her misunderstanding his signs or his cryptic facial expressions, he is unable to fully explain himself. Up until this point, Logan is always the quiet one in the corner (usually because Court’s dragged him to some event... hello, Mr. Grumpy Pants) because of his lack of verbal communication abilities and his disinterest in engaging with others via ASL.
But, adding to the depth of the story, we get Logan's POV throughout the book, which adds to the tension and makes us kick our feet in giddy entertainment. Now we get to know who he really is and we get to fall in love with him, which is what we always want in a romance. I mean, who doesn’t love a man who is BIG on explicit consent, willing to learn about how to be a better, more supportive partner (and actually follows through with actions!), likes to poke fun at people, cares about people deeply, lives with the literal scars of his pain, is always observing, and will fiercely protect those he loves.
And, Eloise? Gosh, I relate to her because I am also trying to grapple with my own detrimental people pleasing. But her growth from the first book is wonderful to observe and she quickly grows on you. I LOVED the development of Eloise and Logan’s relationship from the previous books to this one, they really go through it, eventually finding ways to express themselves. Their love story is beautiful in its imperfections with both characters growing into better people for themselves and for their partner. The tenderness between them feels earned, in a way I can’t fully describe, but it adds depth to the story that you will love. This truly feels like the perfect way to end this series! Bravo, Andrea! I’m excited to see what else Andrea writes, because I am such a fan, even if it’s hard to say goodbye to these characters for now... until the next reread!
"I felt like I had a place in the world. Like I belonged and was supported... For the first time in my adult life, I felt like I fit. Like these people saw me for me. Even Logan... was able to make me feel both cherished and appreciated."
Content Warnings
Graphic: Sexual content
Moderate: Ableism, Child death, Cursing, Sexual assault, and Stalking
Minor: Alcoholism, Body shaming, Sexism, Car accident, and Death of parent
The female main character discovers the blurred lines of consent with a previous partner and comes to terms with her comfort in sexual situations. Her past partner doesn't pick up on the "no" cues (leading to mild stalking).
What It Means to be Brave by Andrea Andersen
emotional
funny
hopeful
inspiring
lighthearted
reflective
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? It's complicated
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? It's complicated
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
5.0
“Meaningful relationships could absolutely have an expiration date. Just because a relationship didn’t end happily ever after, doesn’t mean that it was a wasted experience. My soul craved Joshua Madey, as more than just a fake boyfriend and more than a wham-bam-thank-you-ma’am situation. I wanted something real with him. Even if it had a deadline.”
🎤
If her previous book felt a little emotional for you, then Andrea delivers this one that’s pure fun. Of course, ASL/disability and mental health are represented in this story too. But Courtney is a wild one, unapologetically so, and Josh's nerdy, rockstar confidence really seems to complement her outgoing self.
As individuals, I LOVE these characters: Court is that blunt friend that every introverted person needs & adores; while Josh is that nerd who turned hot, but remained nerdy on the inside... and he’s bisexual, so he talks about how sexy Logan is (like everyone else agrees). Their infatuation with one another is hilarious to watch as their feelings unfold… and even more hilarious when she finds out he had the biggest crush on her in high school (trust me, that scene WILL have you laughing out loud).
The addition of the band/side characters makes this book so much fun because, man, this is a GROUP! Everyone elevates their get-togethers in hilarious ways... the towel scene... read the book and you'll get it. 😏 It’s incredibly adorable how both of them can’t believe the other actually chose them, even if it takes acts of bravery on both of their parts to get to that point. This story had me laughing, clutching my heart saying “aww!,” and even took me by surprise (I guarantee, you won’t predict exactly how this one ends). Plus, I mean, who doesn’t want to live in a rockstar fantasy world for a little bit? This book felt like a movie as the “rockstar” element added a sparkly quality to this realistic world I totally enjoyed. It’s just pure entertainment. I loved it!
If her previous book felt a little emotional for you, then Andrea delivers this one that’s pure fun. Of course, ASL/disability and mental health are represented in this story too. But Courtney is a wild one, unapologetically so, and Josh's nerdy, rockstar confidence really seems to complement her outgoing self.
As individuals, I LOVE these characters: Court is that blunt friend that every introverted person needs & adores; while Josh is that nerd who turned hot, but remained nerdy on the inside... and he’s bisexual, so he talks about how sexy Logan is (like everyone else agrees). Their infatuation with one another is hilarious to watch as their feelings unfold… and even more hilarious when she finds out he had the biggest crush on her in high school (trust me, that scene WILL have you laughing out loud).
The addition of the band/side characters makes this book so much fun because, man, this is a GROUP! Everyone elevates their get-togethers in hilarious ways... the towel scene... read the book and you'll get it. 😏 It’s incredibly adorable how both of them can’t believe the other actually chose them, even if it takes acts of bravery on both of their parts to get to that point. This story had me laughing, clutching my heart saying “aww!,” and even took me by surprise (I guarantee, you won’t predict exactly how this one ends). Plus, I mean, who doesn’t want to live in a rockstar fantasy world for a little bit? This book felt like a movie as the “rockstar” element added a sparkly quality to this realistic world I totally enjoyed. It’s just pure entertainment. I loved it!
"I am never leaving you. You’ll always have me... How do you still not know for a fact that I am completely, painfully in love with you?... because whether or not we get married, I’m yours. Fully, completely yours. I’ll be the most stable thing you’ve ever had. Whether or not I’m on tour couldn’t possibly change that, because we already know that almost a decade of separation didn’t... I just need you to be brave, love."
Content Warnings
Moderate: Cursing, Sexual content, Abandonment, and Alcohol
Minor: Ableism, Drug use, and Sexism
Although both of our main characters do not have disabilities, there are side characters who require communication through ASL (American Sign Language). There is a scene where ASL accommodations fail, leaving characters unable to enjoy an event, until our female main character steps in to interpret. This opens larger conversations about accessibility, especially among the deaf & hard of hearing community.
What It Means To Be Whole by Andrea Andersen
adventurous
emotional
funny
hopeful
informative
inspiring
lighthearted
reflective
relaxing
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? It's complicated
- Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated
5.0
“’I really like you.’
‘Oh—thank fuck!’ Adam exhaled with a small smile...
‘Yeah, I—wait, what?’ I asked, smiling at his sudden relief...
Adam continued speaking into the safety of my skin, ‘I thought you were going to say something like, ‘We shouldn’t be doing this’ or ‘This was a mistake’. I would have died.’”
🌊
I have to hand it to Andrea, she truly created a one-of-a-kind world with her debut novel and series. I just can’t get enough. Not only does she represent typically underrepresented communities (like the deaf/hard of hearing community, the non-binary community, and the feminist male community), but she approaches these characters in realistic and beautiful ways. Her world is where characters are beautifully flawed, loved, and accepted by those closest to them. However, there's still plenty of tension between difficult parents who only see the world through a narrow scope, secret slow-burn pining that makes you want to throw the book across the room while at the same time knowing you would wrestle anyone who dared interrupt your reading because you simply can’t part with these characters for something so trivial as sleep or a conversation with a real human.
I also felt like the disability representation, while distinctive in the contemporary romance space, was approached with care and understanding to give the reader education and make them feel compassion. Have you ever seen a Dan Fogelman project (like his popular television series This Is Us)? Andrea’s characters are like Dan’s. They aren’t just one thing. Beck isn’t just hard of hearing. She’s complex: she’s confident, yet totally nervous around her crush, smart, compassionate, and brave (even if she’s scared to be). Adam isn’t just the shy, hot love interest in this story. He battles depression, bears the weight of others’ expectations, and is an unapologetic feminist. Life is never about one thing. We are constantly pulled in a million different directions and rarely, if ever, do our anxieties wait for us to have our shit together before they decided to crash the party.
Mixing in her special New Girl/Schitt’s Creek brand of comedy, Andrea gives us an entertaining story while commenting on inequalities and double-standards in our society. But we are also treated to quirky and memorable characters that everyone can relate to or can someone in their life to. Intimacy was approached realistically (even somewhat hilariously) while still delivering the spice adding to the overall comedic and quirky nature of the entire cast of characters to make this a very entertaining read. I am such a fan of this author and I can’t wait for more people to discover her incredibly uplifting, embarrassing, funny, and one-of-a-kind world. Don't sleep on this author or series!
I have to hand it to Andrea, she truly created a one-of-a-kind world with her debut novel and series. I just can’t get enough. Not only does she represent typically underrepresented communities (like the deaf/hard of hearing community, the non-binary community, and the feminist male community), but she approaches these characters in realistic and beautiful ways. Her world is where characters are beautifully flawed, loved, and accepted by those closest to them. However, there's still plenty of tension between difficult parents who only see the world through a narrow scope, secret slow-burn pining that makes you want to throw the book across the room while at the same time knowing you would wrestle anyone who dared interrupt your reading because you simply can’t part with these characters for something so trivial as sleep or a conversation with a real human.
I also felt like the disability representation, while distinctive in the contemporary romance space, was approached with care and understanding to give the reader education and make them feel compassion. Have you ever seen a Dan Fogelman project (like his popular television series This Is Us)? Andrea’s characters are like Dan’s. They aren’t just one thing. Beck isn’t just hard of hearing. She’s complex: she’s confident, yet totally nervous around her crush, smart, compassionate, and brave (even if she’s scared to be). Adam isn’t just the shy, hot love interest in this story. He battles depression, bears the weight of others’ expectations, and is an unapologetic feminist. Life is never about one thing. We are constantly pulled in a million different directions and rarely, if ever, do our anxieties wait for us to have our shit together before they decided to crash the party.
Mixing in her special New Girl/Schitt’s Creek brand of comedy, Andrea gives us an entertaining story while commenting on inequalities and double-standards in our society. But we are also treated to quirky and memorable characters that everyone can relate to or can someone in their life to. Intimacy was approached realistically (even somewhat hilariously) while still delivering the spice adding to the overall comedic and quirky nature of the entire cast of characters to make this a very entertaining read. I am such a fan of this author and I can’t wait for more people to discover her incredibly uplifting, embarrassing, funny, and one-of-a-kind world. Don't sleep on this author or series!
"'You don’t feel like your other half is out there somewhere?' Eloise pressed... 'We are all complete, individual people. There isn’t another half of us floating around out there, waiting to meet us, so that we can somehow become fulfilled... find someone who can elevate your life. Who can hold your hand along the way... I just think that the idea of needing someone is desperate and doomed to fail, whereas wanting someone is thoughtful and generally lasting.'"
Content Warnings
Graphic: Ableism, Panic attacks/disorders, Sexual content, and Religious bigotry
Moderate: Cursing, Misogyny, and Sexism
Minor: Toxic relationship, Gaslighting, and Alcohol
The female main character (and a side character) are hard of hearing and use hearing aids to communicate verbally with those around them. However, once their hearing aids are out or the batteries die, they rely on ASL (American Sign Language) as the preferred method of communication. This book tackles various forms of ableism and disability struggles in an ableist society, but this is one of the main iterations of that commentary.
Flexible Standards by Irene Bahrd
The only other thing I will add is just how much bookish fun this novella because I really was laughing through it. If you're looking for an entertaining, quick read... with a little bit of... spice (over plot). Then this one is for you!
adventurous
funny
lighthearted
fast-paced
- Strong character development? No
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? No
4.5
"I glance at her e-reader. 'I’d hardly call that a romantic comedy.'
'Are you book-shaming me?' she asks with an exaggerated gasp.
'Not at all. You could be reading paranormal erotica, a mafia romance, or even a nonfiction title, and I wouldn’t judge.' She shudders at the last suggestion. 'Now who’s judging?'
'I would never,' she feigns insult."
This is an unbelievably cute novella that was such a joy to read. Ditching your friend’s bachelorette party because Vegas can get to be “too much” and reading your book at a bar, sounds like my kind of evening. {And, if you’re a fan of Irene Bahrd, like I am, then you’ll pick up on a reference to a certain “hungry” gentleman completely head over heels for his Becca (hint, hint: it’s from the Love at all Cost series!)} But, to be discovered by a handsome man with a British accent, and asked to go back to his place to change into comfy PJs to continue reading in peace? That’s my kind of meet-cute! I loved the performance scene and bookish talk.
"This will either be an amazing adventure… or the biggest mistake of my life."
The only other thing I will add is just how much bookish fun this novella because I really was laughing through it. If you're looking for an entertaining, quick read... with a little bit of... spice (over plot). Then this one is for you!
"The sexy librarian and the Vegas performer. Quite the perfect pair, if you ask me."
Content Warnings
Graphic: Sexual content
Moderate: Cursing
Minor: Infidelity and Alcohol
Mine with Extra Lime by Irene Bahrd
(The Dedication)
“To anyone who ever felt like they were not enough. You are extraordinary, magnificent, exquisite, and will change the world. Your goals might take longer than expected, but whatever you do, don’t give up. You’ll get there.”
🍋🟩
Irene knows how to write “hungry,” devoted, swoon-y male main characters and Dylan is no exception. To balance out this energy, Irene always writes strong, independent female main characters who own their desires and work hard to never settle less than their worth. Emma is the epitome of that character and I loved her. Plus, as is typical with an Irene book (which apparently began with her debut), there is tons of comedy, specifically troupe-centered comedy. It’s hilarious and I love it! In this case, Dylan’s oblivious to terms like “golden retriever energy” and the “one bed troupe,” which makes me giggle.
What started as a fairytale romance, resulted in him ghosting her after a blissful (almost) year of dating… sixteen years later, they’re back in each other’s lives. But can heartbreak from the past keep them from a future together? When Dylan and Emma reunite, he goes after her HARD, desperately trying to prove he’s always been in love with her and he would never leave her again. And, whew, does this man know how to sweep a woman off her feet. It’s hard to dislike him for his past mistakes and not root for their second chance. If you’re a fan of true second chance romances, this one’s for you because you’ll instantly fall in love with both main characters and their families.
This book is sweet, spicy, and everything in between. Having started with her second series, Love at all Cost, it’s so much fun to meet characters I know post-happily ever afters, before falling in love with their people. It feels like traveling back in time. So, whether you read the other series, are new to Irene Bahrd, or are just looking for a fun, yet satisfying, romance you should read Mine with Extra Lime!
🍋🟩
Irene knows how to write “hungry,” devoted, swoon-y male main characters and Dylan is no exception. To balance out this energy, Irene always writes strong, independent female main characters who own their desires and work hard to never settle less than their worth. Emma is the epitome of that character and I loved her. Plus, as is typical with an Irene book (which apparently began with her debut), there is tons of comedy, specifically troupe-centered comedy. It’s hilarious and I love it! In this case, Dylan’s oblivious to terms like “golden retriever energy” and the “one bed troupe,” which makes me giggle.
What started as a fairytale romance, resulted in him ghosting her after a blissful (almost) year of dating… sixteen years later, they’re back in each other’s lives. But can heartbreak from the past keep them from a future together? When Dylan and Emma reunite, he goes after her HARD, desperately trying to prove he’s always been in love with her and he would never leave her again. And, whew, does this man know how to sweep a woman off her feet. It’s hard to dislike him for his past mistakes and not root for their second chance. If you’re a fan of true second chance romances, this one’s for you because you’ll instantly fall in love with both main characters and their families.
This book is sweet, spicy, and everything in between. Having started with her second series, Love at all Cost, it’s so much fun to meet characters I know post-happily ever afters, before falling in love with their people. It feels like traveling back in time. So, whether you read the other series, are new to Irene Bahrd, or are just looking for a fun, yet satisfying, romance you should read Mine with Extra Lime!
🍋🟩
"... You were always enough. I was just too young and dumb to see that what I had was absolute perfection... I want to prove to you that I’m a different man, a better man—one that deserves you.”
Content Warnings
Graphic: Sexual content
Moderate: Cursing
Minor: Abandonment and Alcohol
There are a couple of characters with neurodivergence (autism) that is described in detail on the page.
Falling the Old Fashioned Way by Irene Bahrd, Irene Bahrd
funny
lighthearted
reflective
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? It's complicated
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? No
4.25
I don’t care if the engagement part is fake, I feel like I’m... hers. I want to do all of the comfy boyfriend-girlfriend crap that I normally hate. Yes, I know it’s basically day one, and one of us will probably do something stupid to royally screw this up, but I plan to enjoy every minute until we do.
🎤
Ethan, oh Ethan. I really could go off about how much I like this character, but I’ll let you draw your own conclusions. I can completely understand why he’s Irene’s favorite (shh, don’t tell her other fictional men). I really liked this story about career-driven, independent people falling in love with their perfect match. Both characters compliment each other so well, it’s easy to root for their relationship. No, there’s not even a single part of me who’s jealous of a fictional woman who gets to spend the rest of her life with a wonderful fictional man... not one part... ok... maybe a little piece of me might be a teensy bit jealous, wishing I had my own Ethan.
Jokes aside, I really liked this book and its handful of troupes that shouldn’t work together, but Irene makes it work. Plus, her iconic comedic parody-style will have you laughing your way through this fun, entertaining read. Melanie goes through a journey in this book: has a hot night with a sexy man, creates a fake engagement with said man so she can get a promotion at her job (her bosses are super sexist), confronts & is threatened by her ex who doesn’t know no means no, actually starts dating her fake fiancé (who’s totally obsessed with her), starts her own business like the boss babe she is, and finally gets her happily ever after. (Yes, I “spoiled” the ending, but, c’mon, if you didn’t know this had a nice ending, then do you even know how fun romcoms work?)
Leave it to Irene to create a story that’s both a fake engagement AND a second chance romance, but she did! Plus, she may have invented a new troupe: brother’s wife’s best friend (and yes, it would sell TONS of books). Even though I completely fell in love with Ethan during his introduction in Mine with Extra Lime, I found myself loving him even more. I mean, who doesn’t love an honest, confident, sexy, tattooed, sarcastic, caring man with a smooth singing voice and the skills to worship his partner? Can’t we all just have our own Ethan?! But I’m happy Melanie gets to have him because they perfectly balance each other out. There’s a LOT of spicy time in this book, but it’s got heart and will leave you adding Ethan to your ever-growing list of book boyfriends.
🎤
Ethan, oh Ethan. I really could go off about how much I like this character, but I’ll let you draw your own conclusions. I can completely understand why he’s Irene’s favorite (shh, don’t tell her other fictional men). I really liked this story about career-driven, independent people falling in love with their perfect match. Both characters compliment each other so well, it’s easy to root for their relationship. No, there’s not even a single part of me who’s jealous of a fictional woman who gets to spend the rest of her life with a wonderful fictional man... not one part... ok... maybe a little piece of me might be a teensy bit jealous, wishing I had my own Ethan.
Jokes aside, I really liked this book and its handful of troupes that shouldn’t work together, but Irene makes it work. Plus, her iconic comedic parody-style will have you laughing your way through this fun, entertaining read. Melanie goes through a journey in this book: has a hot night with a sexy man, creates a fake engagement with said man so she can get a promotion at her job (her bosses are super sexist), confronts & is threatened by her ex who doesn’t know no means no, actually starts dating her fake fiancé (who’s totally obsessed with her), starts her own business like the boss babe she is, and finally gets her happily ever after. (Yes, I “spoiled” the ending, but, c’mon, if you didn’t know this had a nice ending, then do you even know how fun romcoms work?)
Leave it to Irene to create a story that’s both a fake engagement AND a second chance romance, but she did! Plus, she may have invented a new troupe: brother’s wife’s best friend (and yes, it would sell TONS of books). Even though I completely fell in love with Ethan during his introduction in Mine with Extra Lime, I found myself loving him even more. I mean, who doesn’t love an honest, confident, sexy, tattooed, sarcastic, caring man with a smooth singing voice and the skills to worship his partner? Can’t we all just have our own Ethan?! But I’m happy Melanie gets to have him because they perfectly balance each other out. There’s a LOT of spicy time in this book, but it’s got heart and will leave you adding Ethan to your ever-growing list of book boyfriends.
🎤
“I never thought I would find the love of my life. Everyone, including me, thought I would be a bachelor forever. I knew it would take someone special, but I actually thought I’d never find them... until you. I can’t imagine my life without you, Mel. I love you so [f***ing] much, so yeah, I really want to marry you. I want all of it: the kids, the minivan, the dog that loves me, the cat that hates me, the soccer games, the anniversary trips, you sitting on my face every night, the PTA meetings... No. I will only attend those if I am PTA President...”
Content Warnings
Graphic: Sexual content
Moderate: Biphobia, Cursing, and Alcohol
Minor: Misogyny, Panic attacks/disorders, and Toxic relationship
Royally on the Rocks by Irene Bahrd, Irene Bahrd
emotional
funny
hopeful
informative
inspiring
reflective
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.75
“I wake in the morning with my arms wrapped around Sage from behind. Her pillow wall is nowhere to be found.
She looks around, finding the discarded pillows on the ground. ‘Was that you or me?’
‘That was all you, love.’”
🥃
This story hit a little harder than Irene’s other romances, because of the MS (Multiple Sclerosis) angle. Our MMC’s mother has progressive MS and our FMC has relapse-remitting MS, the latter being something I confront constantly because I’m a caretaker for my close family member who’s been diagnosed for over 20 years. With this representation in Sage’s love story, I was instantly drawn in and Irene delivered a sweet story about loving someone with a disability. Although Sage feels like her diagnosis makes her difficult or a burden to love, she is shown how, those who truly love unconditionally, won’t let MS or any challenges that stem from it, stop them from sharing their love and support.
These thoughts might lean on the emotional side, don’t let that fool you. Yes, Irene delivers a deep, moving story about real-world struggles someone with a disability, especially with MS, deals with in trying to not burden their loved ones with the symptoms of their disability. And yes, that hit close to home (literally) for me and my personal experience. But she also keeps her classic scenes of spicy spice and parody humor. Plus, she threw in a fictional country nestled between England and Scotland (imagine that... can I visit there please? And maybe snag me a husband? 😉) with a modern royal family that you are guaranteed to love. Overall, this story delivers on everything you like in an Irene Bahrd book, but she gives us a little extra heart on this one. I really liked it.
🥃
This story hit a little harder than Irene’s other romances, because of the MS (Multiple Sclerosis) angle. Our MMC’s mother has progressive MS and our FMC has relapse-remitting MS, the latter being something I confront constantly because I’m a caretaker for my close family member who’s been diagnosed for over 20 years. With this representation in Sage’s love story, I was instantly drawn in and Irene delivered a sweet story about loving someone with a disability. Although Sage feels like her diagnosis makes her difficult or a burden to love, she is shown how, those who truly love unconditionally, won’t let MS or any challenges that stem from it, stop them from sharing their love and support.
These thoughts might lean on the emotional side, don’t let that fool you. Yes, Irene delivers a deep, moving story about real-world struggles someone with a disability, especially with MS, deals with in trying to not burden their loved ones with the symptoms of their disability. And yes, that hit close to home (literally) for me and my personal experience. But she also keeps her classic scenes of spicy spice and parody humor. Plus, she threw in a fictional country nestled between England and Scotland (imagine that... can I visit there please? And maybe snag me a husband? 😉) with a modern royal family that you are guaranteed to love. Overall, this story delivers on everything you like in an Irene Bahrd book, but she gives us a little extra heart on this one. I really liked it.
🥃
“Sage, have you ever been in love? Because I thought I had, but it was nothing compared to how I feel about you. MS doesn’t scare me. Flare ups don’t scare me. You needing me definitely doesn’t scare me. You don’t scare me. So, this—you and me—shouldn’t scare you.”
Content Warnings
Graphic: Sexual content
Moderate: Chronic illness, Cursing, and Terminal illness
Minor: Misogyny, Death of parent, and Alcohol
The chronic/terminal illness mentioned in this book is Multiple Sclerosis. Two characters have this diagnosis, at different stages of progression, and are explained in detail.