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hanreads__'s reviews
128 reviews
One Good Move by Lily Miller
adventurous
emotional
hopeful
lighthearted
reflective
sad
slow-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Plot
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated
5.0
Thank you Love Notes PR and Lily Miller for allowing me the chance to read this beautiful story as an ARC. Please note that my review is unbiased and based on my opinion only, no thoughts are biased.
*~*~*~*~*
Brothers Best Friend ✔️
Small Town ✔️
He Falls First ✔️
Neighbours to Lovers ✔️
Dirty Talking MMC ✔️
*~*~*~*~*
"𝗜 𝘄𝗶𝗹𝗹 𝗳𝗼𝗹𝗹𝗼𝘄 𝘆𝗼𝘂 𝘄𝗵𝗲𝗿𝗲𝘃𝗲𝗿 𝘆𝗼𝘂 𝗴𝗼, 𝗳𝗼𝗿 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗿𝗲𝘀𝘁 𝗼𝗳 𝘆𝗼𝘂𝗿 𝗹𝗶𝗳𝗲."
*~*~*~*~*
The love I have for this story is beyond words. I am forever in my small town era and I am now relocating to Reed Point to start a new life and settle down with a handsome man (I’d love for it to be Grayson, Jake, Holden or Tucker, but I’m not fussy). There’s something wonderful about starting a new series and meeting a new town that has it charm and stories. It’s an incredible feeling, and it was certainly there where starting One Good Move.
Grayson Ford opened his heart once, and that was enough for him, at least it was until one night in Miami where a leggy blonde started to change his mind, until she ran. A couple of years later and his mind has stayed the same, but when the blonde from that night shows up, it doesn’t take long for old thoughts to reappear.
Sierra is a treasure. When you find the person who can walk into a dull room and light it up, you hold onto them, and that’s what you need to do with Sierra, hold onto her. She’s not had the best past, but she had has a loving family who have allowed her to dream and go for what she wants. While missing her parents, her relationship with her brother and grandma is one that anyone would love to have. Sierra is a diamond, a beautiful diamond who deserves so much love and I’d be honoured to have her as my friend.
For those who haven’t read this story yet, I hope you love the chemistry as much as I did between Sierra and Grayson. They are so in sync and perfect together. Once they reconnected and the tension started to grow, I could feel myself wanting to scream and shake the author a million times for the cruel interruptions she would include. I was DESPERATE for them to have that first kiss again, and when it finally happened? LORD WAS I HAPPY.
I cannot express a single negative with this story apart from the lack of diversity within the story. It would’ve been lovely to see difference races and people who maybe have a disability or something else that allows diversity to be represented! Apart from that, it completely ticked my boxes. One thing I loved about this story is that there was no third act break up and that the plot didn’t go the way I was expecting it to. I love being surprised and Lily really strayed from the typical cliches that take place in a story like this. The characters were so mature, and it just made me so incredibly happy. The relationships between everyone were honourable and unique, none were cold, they were all mature and grown up (something you struggle to find in each and every story).
Truth be told, I could go on for hours and hours, but I think you’d get fed up of me and I’d end up giving the story away. But I would like to mention one more thing. THE COMMUNICATION 🤌🏻🤌🏻🤌🏻 HELLO LILY? CAN I HUG YOU? YOU’RE ONE OF THE BEST AUTHORS FOR ALLOWING PEOPLE TO COMMUNICATE WHEN SOMETHING GOES WRONG RATHER THAN THERE BEING MISCOMMUNICATION AND PERTY ARGUMENTS. THANK YOU QUEEN.
Finally, I beg you go and read 5his absolute gem of a story, and I CANNOT wait for Jakes story, he’s a DILF and I’m simping hard.
*~*~*~*~*
Brothers Best Friend ✔️
Small Town ✔️
He Falls First ✔️
Neighbours to Lovers ✔️
Dirty Talking MMC ✔️
*~*~*~*~*
"𝗜 𝘄𝗶𝗹𝗹 𝗳𝗼𝗹𝗹𝗼𝘄 𝘆𝗼𝘂 𝘄𝗵𝗲𝗿𝗲𝘃𝗲𝗿 𝘆𝗼𝘂 𝗴𝗼, 𝗳𝗼𝗿 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗿𝗲𝘀𝘁 𝗼𝗳 𝘆𝗼𝘂𝗿 𝗹𝗶𝗳𝗲."
*~*~*~*~*
The love I have for this story is beyond words. I am forever in my small town era and I am now relocating to Reed Point to start a new life and settle down with a handsome man (I’d love for it to be Grayson, Jake, Holden or Tucker, but I’m not fussy). There’s something wonderful about starting a new series and meeting a new town that has it charm and stories. It’s an incredible feeling, and it was certainly there where starting One Good Move.
Grayson Ford opened his heart once, and that was enough for him, at least it was until one night in Miami where a leggy blonde started to change his mind, until she ran. A couple of years later and his mind has stayed the same, but when the blonde from that night shows up, it doesn’t take long for old thoughts to reappear.
Sierra is a treasure. When you find the person who can walk into a dull room and light it up, you hold onto them, and that’s what you need to do with Sierra, hold onto her. She’s not had the best past, but she had has a loving family who have allowed her to dream and go for what she wants. While missing her parents, her relationship with her brother and grandma is one that anyone would love to have. Sierra is a diamond, a beautiful diamond who deserves so much love and I’d be honoured to have her as my friend.
For those who haven’t read this story yet, I hope you love the chemistry as much as I did between Sierra and Grayson. They are so in sync and perfect together. Once they reconnected and the tension started to grow, I could feel myself wanting to scream and shake the author a million times for the cruel interruptions she would include. I was DESPERATE for them to have that first kiss again, and when it finally happened? LORD WAS I HAPPY.
I cannot express a single negative with this story apart from the lack of diversity within the story. It would’ve been lovely to see difference races and people who maybe have a disability or something else that allows diversity to be represented! Apart from that, it completely ticked my boxes. One thing I loved about this story is that there was no third act break up and that the plot didn’t go the way I was expecting it to. I love being surprised and Lily really strayed from the typical cliches that take place in a story like this. The characters were so mature, and it just made me so incredibly happy. The relationships between everyone were honourable and unique, none were cold, they were all mature and grown up (something you struggle to find in each and every story).
Truth be told, I could go on for hours and hours, but I think you’d get fed up of me and I’d end up giving the story away. But I would like to mention one more thing. THE COMMUNICATION 🤌🏻🤌🏻🤌🏻 HELLO LILY? CAN I HUG YOU? YOU’RE ONE OF THE BEST AUTHORS FOR ALLOWING PEOPLE TO COMMUNICATE WHEN SOMETHING GOES WRONG RATHER THAN THERE BEING MISCOMMUNICATION AND PERTY ARGUMENTS. THANK YOU QUEEN.
Finally, I beg you go and read 5his absolute gem of a story, and I CANNOT wait for Jakes story, he’s a DILF and I’m simping hard.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Cursing and Sexual content
Moderate: Alcoholism, Cancer, Death of parent, Fire/Fire injury, and Alcohol
Bear Naked with the Bearded Baller by Amy Award
adventurous
lighthearted
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Plot
- Strong character development? N/A
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? No
5.0
Grumpy x Sunshine ✔️
Forced Proximity ✔️
Football Player x Plus Sized Super Model ✔️
Love At First Sight ✔️
*~*~*~*~*
I received this ARC in return for an honest review. Please note that all opinions and views are my own and non bias. Thank you to Love Notes PR and Amy Award for allowing me this opportunity!
This was my first novella and I wasn’t sure on what to expect apart from a short story, I was pleasantly surprised with what I received. There’s nothing better than a grumpy x sunshine trope, especially when the grumpy man is a softie for one person and one person only.
While the story was short, there was plenty of chemistry between April and Bridger. I believe in soulmates and I do believe they are meant to be. They fit one another perfectly and compliment each other wonderfully.
While there were some moments where I found things cringey (a certain nickname along with how April was spoke about sexually), I did enjoy this story massively and can’t wait to read the story that it is a prequel to!
Forced Proximity ✔️
Football Player x Plus Sized Super Model ✔️
Love At First Sight ✔️
*~*~*~*~*
I received this ARC in return for an honest review. Please note that all opinions and views are my own and non bias. Thank you to Love Notes PR and Amy Award for allowing me this opportunity!
This was my first novella and I wasn’t sure on what to expect apart from a short story, I was pleasantly surprised with what I received. There’s nothing better than a grumpy x sunshine trope, especially when the grumpy man is a softie for one person and one person only.
While the story was short, there was plenty of chemistry between April and Bridger. I believe in soulmates and I do believe they are meant to be. They fit one another perfectly and compliment each other wonderfully.
While there were some moments where I found things cringey (a certain nickname along with how April was spoke about sexually), I did enjoy this story massively and can’t wait to read the story that it is a prequel to!
Content Warnings
Graphic: Cursing and Sexual content
Make Me by Caroline Masci
funny
lighthearted
reflective
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Plot
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated
5.0
Grumpy x Sunshine ✔️
Forced Proximity ✔️
Rivals to Lovers ✔️
Family Oriented ✔️
CEO x CEO ✔️
*~*~*~*~*
Above are a few tropes that you’ll find within ‘Make Me’ and are the main tropes that I adored.
Before starting my review, I would like to thank Love Notes PR for allowing me this story as an ARC in exchange for an honest review. Please note that my opinions and views are mine and only mine.
*~*~*~*~*
"𝗕𝗮𝗯𝘆, 𝗜 𝘁𝗼𝗹𝗱 𝘆𝗼𝘂 𝗶𝗳 𝘆𝗼𝘂 𝘄𝗲𝗿𝗲 𝗺𝗶𝗻𝗲, 𝗜 𝘄𝗼𝘂𝗹𝗱 𝗺𝗮𝗸𝗲 𝘀𝘂𝗿𝗲 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝘄𝗵𝗼𝗹𝗲 𝘄𝗼𝗿𝗹𝗱 𝗸𝗻𝗲𝘄 𝗶𝘁." 𝗛𝗲 𝘀𝗰𝗮𝗻𝘀 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗿𝗼𝗼𝗺. "𝗔𝗻𝗱 𝘄𝗼𝘂𝗹𝗱 𝘆𝗼𝘂 𝗹𝗼𝗼𝗸 𝗮𝘁 𝘁𝗵𝗮𝘁? 𝗬𝗼𝘂'𝗿𝗲 𝗰𝗼𝗺𝗽𝗹𝗲𝘁𝗲𝗹𝘆 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝘁𝗼𝘁𝗮𝗹𝗹𝘆 𝗺𝗶𝗻𝗲, 𝗢𝗹𝗶𝘃𝗶𝗮 𝗕𝗹𝗮𝗸𝗲."
Can we just appreciate the above quote? It is incredibly beautiful and I would do anything for a man to talk to me like that, excuse me while I swoon.
*~*~*~*~*
Olivia (Livvy) Blake is someone who’s put sweat and blood into her work to reach the position that she’s in, groomed and prepped into the role she’s desperate to earn, she’s ready to prove herself.
Ryder Fallington comes across as your cliche business man who finds it easy with the ladies and likes his scotch. Money is no object to him and he’s ready to right a wrong, if only people knew just how wonderful he truly is.
Positive Points:
1. The family tree at the start is SUPER HELPFUL. I’m someone who needs visual things to understand things better and the family tree allowed me to refer back to the start when confused by how people related. It was a game changer and different to see!
2. While there were some cliches within the story, I like how the author strayed and changed each cliche one way or another, especially in regards to the plot! I love that while Ryder and Olivia were rivals, they kept things professional and funny rather than allowing things to turn sour and harsh.
3. The pranks were absolutely hilarious and I love the humour. Even during the moments that break your heart, there will be a character who makes that moment that little be better!
4. The plot twist! I was not EXPECTING things to go that way and was a little shell shocked! It was nice to see things done the way that they were and how friends rallied around one another in their times of need!
5. The relationships between Livvy and Ryder’s friends alongside Ryder, his brother and dad. All the relationships bar two in the story were beautiful and relatable in some sort of way.
6. Chronic Illness representation. It was nice to see some knowledge bought to life about a chronic illness and how it affected others who were close to a certain family member.
7. Mental Health representation. To see anxiety represented in the presence of a voice in the head was incredibly relatable and helpful to read about. Some people fail to realise that when a mental illness gets so bad, it can become a voice in your head, one that leaves you feeling horrible and low. It was something I understood very well and allowed me to feel what Livvy was feeling at times.
*~*~*~*~*
If you haven’t noticed, I adored the story. It was full of wonderful and heartfelt moments that had me in awe and occasionally snorting at something funny. I adored the characters and felt connected to Livvy in a couple of ways. It breaks my heart that some people have found Livvy to be spoilt and annoying. I find the woman to be strong and powerful. She did not get to where she was without having to prove herself, she put everything into her work and the passion she has is clear from the get go. She’s not spoilt, she’s not cynical, she’s incredibly down to earth and genuine. I want nothing but the best for her.
Ryder was an ass at the start but man did I fall for him quicker than a rain drop falling from a cloud. He is the perfect man for Livvy and the respect he has for women in business is something to admire. While other men are misogynists, Ryder is one who defends a woman and constantly reminds others of the power they hold within the business world, one where men often think they run it.
I can’t say that Ryder is perfect, he did some things that shouldn’t of been forgiven so easily, but he had good intentions and I have the upmost respect for him in what he did in when getting to know Livvy.
The intimacy between Livvy and Ryder warmed my heart. While it started with a night of passion, it soon turned into a beautiful relationship that wasn’t based on sex but rather two people learning more about one another and exploring the perfect chemistry between them. The heartfelt conversations, the meaningful moments, the inside jokes, everything was perfect and I was in awe of them both.
*~*~*~*~*
Negative points:
1. Devin and Olivia’s father. I felt that Devin and her father were forgiven way too easily for the way they have acted numerous times. It felt as if Olivia was a little bit of a mug, and while Devin redeemed herself in my eyes, I think Olivia should’ve made them both work for her forgiveness.
2. While the plot twist was good, I figured out who the person behind the unhappy moment was way too easily. It was practically handed to you by the author and it would’ve been nice to continue guessing right until the very end rather than find out instantly.
3. The third act break up… I WAS SO INCREDIBLY FRUSTRATED WITH THIS. Everything was going perfectly and I truly thought the story would end without a third act break up, and then when it finally happened I questioned why. Livvy and Ryder were in such a strong place within their relationship, there was so much trust established, why didn’t she realise sooner that Ryder would never hurt her or do anything to jeopardise her future? I understand her anxiety, but it looked as if he trusted her more and she gave up too easily on him.
*~*~*~*~*
All in all, I absolutely LOVED this story and I will never understand how people could DNF it or rate it low. It’s now one of my favourites and I CANNOT wait for the second instalment of the series. There are way more positives than negatives to ‘Make Me’ and I encourage everyone who’s a romcom lover to read this story. And finally, I would be over the moon if ‘Make Me’ was an actual app because I’m so basic with makeup, and I would love to know Olivia!
Forced Proximity ✔️
Rivals to Lovers ✔️
Family Oriented ✔️
CEO x CEO ✔️
*~*~*~*~*
Above are a few tropes that you’ll find within ‘Make Me’ and are the main tropes that I adored.
Before starting my review, I would like to thank Love Notes PR for allowing me this story as an ARC in exchange for an honest review. Please note that my opinions and views are mine and only mine.
*~*~*~*~*
"𝗕𝗮𝗯𝘆, 𝗜 𝘁𝗼𝗹𝗱 𝘆𝗼𝘂 𝗶𝗳 𝘆𝗼𝘂 𝘄𝗲𝗿𝗲 𝗺𝗶𝗻𝗲, 𝗜 𝘄𝗼𝘂𝗹𝗱 𝗺𝗮𝗸𝗲 𝘀𝘂𝗿𝗲 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝘄𝗵𝗼𝗹𝗲 𝘄𝗼𝗿𝗹𝗱 𝗸𝗻𝗲𝘄 𝗶𝘁." 𝗛𝗲 𝘀𝗰𝗮𝗻𝘀 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗿𝗼𝗼𝗺. "𝗔𝗻𝗱 𝘄𝗼𝘂𝗹𝗱 𝘆𝗼𝘂 𝗹𝗼𝗼𝗸 𝗮𝘁 𝘁𝗵𝗮𝘁? 𝗬𝗼𝘂'𝗿𝗲 𝗰𝗼𝗺𝗽𝗹𝗲𝘁𝗲𝗹𝘆 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝘁𝗼𝘁𝗮𝗹𝗹𝘆 𝗺𝗶𝗻𝗲, 𝗢𝗹𝗶𝘃𝗶𝗮 𝗕𝗹𝗮𝗸𝗲."
Can we just appreciate the above quote? It is incredibly beautiful and I would do anything for a man to talk to me like that, excuse me while I swoon.
*~*~*~*~*
Olivia (Livvy) Blake is someone who’s put sweat and blood into her work to reach the position that she’s in, groomed and prepped into the role she’s desperate to earn, she’s ready to prove herself.
Ryder Fallington comes across as your cliche business man who finds it easy with the ladies and likes his scotch. Money is no object to him and he’s ready to right a wrong, if only people knew just how wonderful he truly is.
Positive Points:
1. The family tree at the start is SUPER HELPFUL. I’m someone who needs visual things to understand things better and the family tree allowed me to refer back to the start when confused by how people related. It was a game changer and different to see!
2. While there were some cliches within the story, I like how the author strayed and changed each cliche one way or another, especially in regards to the plot! I love that while Ryder and Olivia were rivals, they kept things professional and funny rather than allowing things to turn sour and harsh.
3. The pranks were absolutely hilarious and I love the humour. Even during the moments that break your heart, there will be a character who makes that moment that little be better!
4. The plot twist! I was not EXPECTING things to go that way and was a little shell shocked! It was nice to see things done the way that they were and how friends rallied around one another in their times of need!
5. The relationships between Livvy and Ryder’s friends alongside Ryder, his brother and dad. All the relationships bar two in the story were beautiful and relatable in some sort of way.
6. Chronic Illness representation. It was nice to see some knowledge bought to life about a chronic illness and how it affected others who were close to a certain family member.
7. Mental Health representation. To see anxiety represented in the presence of a voice in the head was incredibly relatable and helpful to read about. Some people fail to realise that when a mental illness gets so bad, it can become a voice in your head, one that leaves you feeling horrible and low. It was something I understood very well and allowed me to feel what Livvy was feeling at times.
*~*~*~*~*
If you haven’t noticed, I adored the story. It was full of wonderful and heartfelt moments that had me in awe and occasionally snorting at something funny. I adored the characters and felt connected to Livvy in a couple of ways. It breaks my heart that some people have found Livvy to be spoilt and annoying. I find the woman to be strong and powerful. She did not get to where she was without having to prove herself, she put everything into her work and the passion she has is clear from the get go. She’s not spoilt, she’s not cynical, she’s incredibly down to earth and genuine. I want nothing but the best for her.
Ryder was an ass at the start but man did I fall for him quicker than a rain drop falling from a cloud. He is the perfect man for Livvy and the respect he has for women in business is something to admire. While other men are misogynists, Ryder is one who defends a woman and constantly reminds others of the power they hold within the business world, one where men often think they run it.
I can’t say that Ryder is perfect, he did some things that shouldn’t of been forgiven so easily, but he had good intentions and I have the upmost respect for him in what he did in when getting to know Livvy.
The intimacy between Livvy and Ryder warmed my heart. While it started with a night of passion, it soon turned into a beautiful relationship that wasn’t based on sex but rather two people learning more about one another and exploring the perfect chemistry between them. The heartfelt conversations, the meaningful moments, the inside jokes, everything was perfect and I was in awe of them both.
*~*~*~*~*
Negative points:
1. Devin and Olivia’s father. I felt that Devin and her father were forgiven way too easily for the way they have acted numerous times. It felt as if Olivia was a little bit of a mug, and while Devin redeemed herself in my eyes, I think Olivia should’ve made them both work for her forgiveness.
2. While the plot twist was good, I figured out who the person behind the unhappy moment was way too easily. It was practically handed to you by the author and it would’ve been nice to continue guessing right until the very end rather than find out instantly.
3. The third act break up… I WAS SO INCREDIBLY FRUSTRATED WITH THIS. Everything was going perfectly and I truly thought the story would end without a third act break up, and then when it finally happened I questioned why. Livvy and Ryder were in such a strong place within their relationship, there was so much trust established, why didn’t she realise sooner that Ryder would never hurt her or do anything to jeopardise her future? I understand her anxiety, but it looked as if he trusted her more and she gave up too easily on him.
*~*~*~*~*
All in all, I absolutely LOVED this story and I will never understand how people could DNF it or rate it low. It’s now one of my favourites and I CANNOT wait for the second instalment of the series. There are way more positives than negatives to ‘Make Me’ and I encourage everyone who’s a romcom lover to read this story. And finally, I would be over the moon if ‘Make Me’ was an actual app because I’m so basic with makeup, and I would love to know Olivia!
Content Warnings
Graphic: Cursing, Panic attacks/disorders, and Alcohol
Moderate: Sexual content
Minor: Infidelity, Misogyny, and Death of parent
Homerun Proposal by Maren Moore
funny
hopeful
inspiring
lighthearted
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Plot
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated
5.0
I am currently in my Maren Moore era and will possibly need to seek therapy for how obsessed I am with her and her writing… words cannot befin to explain the amount of love I had for this book, and I don’t think my review will do it justice, it was just perfect.
Speaking of perfection, LANE FREAKING COLLINS! Remember that name folks, the man is what every lady needs and he has OFFICIALLY claimed the best boyfriend title over my beloved Brendan Taggart… If anyone could make you drop your panties and tear away the cages around your heart, it would be him. He’s seen as a typical playboy and yet he is so much more. He’s a down to earth man who is slowly finding himself, and it’s when he comes across the chance of a lifetime with his Hallie Girl that he realises what he truly wants. The man deserves so much happiness and my heart with forever hold a special place just for him. He is so dreamy and I am OBSESSED. Curse Maren for making such a perfect fictional character that doesn’t exist,
Hallie is one of a kind, a sweetheart who isn’t scared to be herself and look up to her so much for the confidence and love she has for herself. Hallie is incredibly relatable and I love that she has so many little quirks that make her who she is, shes got a heart of gold and is the type of person that I would love to have in my life. It’s great to see a female main character who can sass you to the ends of the earth but turn to mush in the presence of someone who makes her heart happy. I think Hallie is destined for great things and I want nothing more than for her to come out making top notch films about aliens and how cute they can be.
Another thing I absolutely adored within this book was the side characters and the kind of friendships that were in this book. Let’s start with Eli and Viv, alongside Hallie they are the three musketeers, happy to do anything together and yet happy to be in their own bubbles without a single argument or jealousy growing. At first I was routing for Eli and Hallie because of their dynamic but Maren Moore really showed you that men and women can just be friends and remain platonic. Their friendship was beautiful and it reminds me of the one I have with my best friend; it was amazing to be able to relate to that kind of friendship. As for Viv and Hallie, I NEED THEIR PODCAST TO BE A REALITY ASAP! These two ladies are magnificent together and I cannot wait to get to know Viv more in the second book! Viv is clearly a badass but I definitely think there’s more to her than meets the eye. Hallie and Viv’s relationship is just something else that is incredibly relatable.
When it comes to a lot of sports books (while I haven’t read many) I’ve noticed that locker room talk seems to be a popular thing in many, and I do think that some comments can be quite disgusting during said talk, but Maren has NONE OF IT and I absolutely love that. It’s nice to read a book when men are just respectful of ladies at all times rather than talking about them in such a way that makes you cringe and feel a little sick inside. This is where we focus on Lane’s friends. I truly believe he will remain friends with them for the rest of his life and I cannot wait to see more of them in the next book as you’ll get to know one of them a lot more (noticed how I’ve not given names, I’m not spoiling a single thing for you) BUT THERE IS GONNA BE ANGST.
I cannot find a single fault within this book apart from the fact that I think it could’ve used more diversity, I do feel as though diversity was lacking massively, despite this, everything is done so perfectly by Maren that it’s impossible for me to say a bad word. There’s a brilliant balance between humour, spice, romance and back stories for the side characters. one thing I loved was how Maren strayed from the cliches of sport and allowed Lane to find himself in a different way rather than having him continue to do something that didn’t make him happy.
Maren, you are a force to be reckoned with, and I love your work.
Speaking of perfection, LANE FREAKING COLLINS! Remember that name folks, the man is what every lady needs and he has OFFICIALLY claimed the best boyfriend title over my beloved Brendan Taggart… If anyone could make you drop your panties and tear away the cages around your heart, it would be him. He’s seen as a typical playboy and yet he is so much more. He’s a down to earth man who is slowly finding himself, and it’s when he comes across the chance of a lifetime with his Hallie Girl that he realises what he truly wants. The man deserves so much happiness and my heart with forever hold a special place just for him. He is so dreamy and I am OBSESSED. Curse Maren for making such a perfect fictional character that doesn’t exist,
Hallie is one of a kind, a sweetheart who isn’t scared to be herself and look up to her so much for the confidence and love she has for herself. Hallie is incredibly relatable and I love that she has so many little quirks that make her who she is, shes got a heart of gold and is the type of person that I would love to have in my life. It’s great to see a female main character who can sass you to the ends of the earth but turn to mush in the presence of someone who makes her heart happy. I think Hallie is destined for great things and I want nothing more than for her to come out making top notch films about aliens and how cute they can be.
Another thing I absolutely adored within this book was the side characters and the kind of friendships that were in this book. Let’s start with Eli and Viv, alongside Hallie they are the three musketeers, happy to do anything together and yet happy to be in their own bubbles without a single argument or jealousy growing. At first I was routing for Eli and Hallie because of their dynamic but Maren Moore really showed you that men and women can just be friends and remain platonic. Their friendship was beautiful and it reminds me of the one I have with my best friend; it was amazing to be able to relate to that kind of friendship. As for Viv and Hallie, I NEED THEIR PODCAST TO BE A REALITY ASAP! These two ladies are magnificent together and I cannot wait to get to know Viv more in the second book! Viv is clearly a badass but I definitely think there’s more to her than meets the eye. Hallie and Viv’s relationship is just something else that is incredibly relatable.
When it comes to a lot of sports books (while I haven’t read many) I’ve noticed that locker room talk seems to be a popular thing in many, and I do think that some comments can be quite disgusting during said talk, but Maren has NONE OF IT and I absolutely love that. It’s nice to read a book when men are just respectful of ladies at all times rather than talking about them in such a way that makes you cringe and feel a little sick inside. This is where we focus on Lane’s friends. I truly believe he will remain friends with them for the rest of his life and I cannot wait to see more of them in the next book as you’ll get to know one of them a lot more (noticed how I’ve not given names, I’m not spoiling a single thing for you) BUT THERE IS GONNA BE ANGST.
I cannot find a single fault within this book apart from the fact that I think it could’ve used more diversity, I do feel as though diversity was lacking massively, despite this, everything is done so perfectly by Maren that it’s impossible for me to say a bad word. There’s a brilliant balance between humour, spice, romance and back stories for the side characters. one thing I loved was how Maren strayed from the cliches of sport and allowed Lane to find himself in a different way rather than having him continue to do something that didn’t make him happy.
Maren, you are a force to be reckoned with, and I love your work.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Sexual content
Moderate: Cursing
My Favorite Kidnapper by Melanie Moreland
adventurous
lighthearted
relaxing
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Plot
- Strong character development? It's complicated
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? No
3.5
Thank you so much to Melanie Moreland for allowing me to read this story as an ARC! I was truly a pleasure and please know that the rating has no means to do with your writing.
My Favourite Kidnapper is a story full of spice and little secrets that unravel slowly. A baker and a grumpy man who has the sweetest tooth in the world, who could possibly fit better together?
The thing that enticed me to the story in the first place was the cover, I MEAN LOOK AT HOW BEAUTIFUL IT IS!
I know that the title instantly mentions a kidnapper, and I’ve come to learn that stories involving being kidnapped aren’t for me. I struggle to understand how anyone could fall for their own kidnapper, but hey, that’s why it’s fictional!
While Dante is an absolute gentleman who allows freedom to Brianna, I struggle to fall in love with him, I feel very little of a connection to him, but I do believe that Brianna is good for him.
The secrets that unravelled in the story seemed very small and plain to me, I was expecting for something big and exciting to take place and when the other shoe dropped, I felt nothing but a little bit of disappointment.
Once again, while I did not enjoy the story as much as I would’ve liked to, I think Melanie is an incredible writer and would be happy to read more of her stories in the future!
My Favourite Kidnapper is a story full of spice and little secrets that unravel slowly. A baker and a grumpy man who has the sweetest tooth in the world, who could possibly fit better together?
The thing that enticed me to the story in the first place was the cover, I MEAN LOOK AT HOW BEAUTIFUL IT IS!
I know that the title instantly mentions a kidnapper, and I’ve come to learn that stories involving being kidnapped aren’t for me. I struggle to understand how anyone could fall for their own kidnapper, but hey, that’s why it’s fictional!
While Dante is an absolute gentleman who allows freedom to Brianna, I struggle to fall in love with him, I feel very little of a connection to him, but I do believe that Brianna is good for him.
The secrets that unravelled in the story seemed very small and plain to me, I was expecting for something big and exciting to take place and when the other shoe dropped, I felt nothing but a little bit of disappointment.
Once again, while I did not enjoy the story as much as I would’ve liked to, I think Melanie is an incredible writer and would be happy to read more of her stories in the future!
Content Warnings
Moderate: Sexual content and Kidnapping
Minor: Cursing
Snap Shot by Ruby Rana
adventurous
emotional
lighthearted
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Plot
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated
5.0
Forbidden Love ✔️
Hockey Player x Lawyer ✔️
Friends to Lovers ✔️
One Bed ✔️
He Falls First ✔️
If someone could force you into a hockey era, Ruby Rana would be that person. For a debut novel, she is a force to be reckoned with. I am officially in love with Landon Radek and extremely angry that such a perfect specimen does not exist.
I would like to thank Ruby for trusting me with an ARC! I fell in love with your words, your characters, and everything in between. The story was perfect, and everyone in the reading community needs to read it as soon as possible.
The main thing I loved about this story was the diversity. Ruby did an incredible job at representing different races, religions and beliefs. While I may be a simple white person, I loved learning about Diwali, I loved learning about transitions and more, it was fascinating and really added to the story for me. And then you have Landon Radek who is a complete God wanting to learn too? HELLO! What a perfect man! It’s about damn time we had more representation in books about women of colour and I praise Ruby for the writing she included!
So much detail went into the story with the side characters stories and the past of the main characters that you felt as if you were watching a story act out rather reading one. Sometimes you can find that a ton of information about different people can ruin a story but this only allowed to story to progress and feel more relatable.
Indira Davé is a hot shot lawyer who has everything she could need at the click of her fingers, expect she wants to become partner at her firm and succeed in life completely. Headstrong and powerful, nothing is too much for Indi, that is until she finds out about Landon Radek and her past slowly comes into view. Refusing to let her heart get hurt yet again, boundaries are set by herself, but is Landon going to allow these boundaries to stay or will he push?
Landon Radek is seen as a typical playboy but as you grow to know him, you learn that he’s anything but and if anything, it just makes you fall more in love with him. He’s a sweetheart and a golden retriever rolled into one, determined to prove himself to Indi, and prove himself to the world that he’s not this person that someone else has made him out to be. Does he prove that? You’re going to have to read to find out.
Finally, this was the SMUTTIEST book I have EVER READ, but goodness me, it was worth it. While I don’t enjoy a ton of smut, I do enjoy some, and yet every-time a smut scene appeared? I was left desperate for more, my mouth watering and my panties ready to be ripped. I even created my own game… take a shot every time you wish Landon Radek was praising you… Ruby balanced the smut out perfect with the plot, it all blended in together nicely.
I have no bad words about this magnificent story, I just think you need to read it as soon as possible rather than reading this review because you’re wasting your time. I CANNOT WAIT for the next book, and I will be screaming with excitement once it happens!!
Hockey Player x Lawyer ✔️
Friends to Lovers ✔️
One Bed ✔️
He Falls First ✔️
If someone could force you into a hockey era, Ruby Rana would be that person. For a debut novel, she is a force to be reckoned with. I am officially in love with Landon Radek and extremely angry that such a perfect specimen does not exist.
I would like to thank Ruby for trusting me with an ARC! I fell in love with your words, your characters, and everything in between. The story was perfect, and everyone in the reading community needs to read it as soon as possible.
The main thing I loved about this story was the diversity. Ruby did an incredible job at representing different races, religions and beliefs. While I may be a simple white person, I loved learning about Diwali, I loved learning about transitions and more, it was fascinating and really added to the story for me. And then you have Landon Radek who is a complete God wanting to learn too? HELLO! What a perfect man! It’s about damn time we had more representation in books about women of colour and I praise Ruby for the writing she included!
So much detail went into the story with the side characters stories and the past of the main characters that you felt as if you were watching a story act out rather reading one. Sometimes you can find that a ton of information about different people can ruin a story but this only allowed to story to progress and feel more relatable.
Indira Davé is a hot shot lawyer who has everything she could need at the click of her fingers, expect she wants to become partner at her firm and succeed in life completely. Headstrong and powerful, nothing is too much for Indi, that is until she finds out about Landon Radek and her past slowly comes into view. Refusing to let her heart get hurt yet again, boundaries are set by herself, but is Landon going to allow these boundaries to stay or will he push?
Landon Radek is seen as a typical playboy but as you grow to know him, you learn that he’s anything but and if anything, it just makes you fall more in love with him. He’s a sweetheart and a golden retriever rolled into one, determined to prove himself to Indi, and prove himself to the world that he’s not this person that someone else has made him out to be. Does he prove that? You’re going to have to read to find out.
Finally, this was the SMUTTIEST book I have EVER READ, but goodness me, it was worth it. While I don’t enjoy a ton of smut, I do enjoy some, and yet every-time a smut scene appeared? I was left desperate for more, my mouth watering and my panties ready to be ripped. I even created my own game… take a shot every time you wish Landon Radek was praising you… Ruby balanced the smut out perfect with the plot, it all blended in together nicely.
I have no bad words about this magnificent story, I just think you need to read it as soon as possible rather than reading this review because you’re wasting your time. I CANNOT WAIT for the next book, and I will be screaming with excitement once it happens!!
Content Warnings
Graphic: Sexual content
The Moment That Changed Everything by Lani Blake
adventurous
reflective
tense
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Plot
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.5
Grumpy x Sunshine ✔️
Small Town ✔️
Opposites Attract ✔️
Brothers Friend ✔️
Family Oriented ✔️
Above are just a few tropes you’ll find within this wonderful story that HAS JUST BEEN PUBLISHED! Firstly, I just want to thank Lani Blake for contacting me in regards to an ARC for an honest review.
Rating: 4.5 ⭐️
I absolutely loved this story, I’m a sucker for a grumpy man and would happily take one in my heart any day, but sometimes there’s a limit to how grumpy one person can be. While I loved Sawyer, there were times where his bossiness was too much for me and border-lining disrespectful. An alpha male is good and all until he’s OTT. This is why it didn’t get five stars from me.
I love how once Birdie and Sawyer stopped denying their feelings, things fell into place nicely, and before then, I love how everyone was so protective of Birdie and yet honest with Sawyer! The way the Duke family acts towards one another warms my heart, it’s such a beautiful dynamic and honestly made the story for me.
THE PLOT TWIST WAS NOT SOMETHING I WAS EXPECTING, BUT DAMN GIRL, LOCK THE BITCH UP, SHE CRAY CRAY.
ANYWAY, please to read the book, you’ll love it and probably want to drop your pants for Sawyer Duke just as much as I do x
Small Town ✔️
Opposites Attract ✔️
Brothers Friend ✔️
Family Oriented ✔️
Above are just a few tropes you’ll find within this wonderful story that HAS JUST BEEN PUBLISHED! Firstly, I just want to thank Lani Blake for contacting me in regards to an ARC for an honest review.
Rating: 4.5 ⭐️
I absolutely loved this story, I’m a sucker for a grumpy man and would happily take one in my heart any day, but sometimes there’s a limit to how grumpy one person can be. While I loved Sawyer, there were times where his bossiness was too much for me and border-lining disrespectful. An alpha male is good and all until he’s OTT. This is why it didn’t get five stars from me.
I love how once Birdie and Sawyer stopped denying their feelings, things fell into place nicely, and before then, I love how everyone was so protective of Birdie and yet honest with Sawyer! The way the Duke family acts towards one another warms my heart, it’s such a beautiful dynamic and honestly made the story for me.
THE PLOT TWIST WAS NOT SOMETHING I WAS EXPECTING, BUT DAMN GIRL, LOCK THE BITCH UP, SHE CRAY CRAY.
ANYWAY, please to read the book, you’ll love it and probably want to drop your pants for Sawyer Duke just as much as I do x
Content Warnings
Graphic: Sexual content
Moderate: Cancer, Infidelity, and Schizophrenia/Psychosis
The other version by Eve Blakely
emotional
inspiring
sad
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
5.0
Small Town ✔️
Love at first sight ✔️
Dreamy Bartender / Guitarist ✔️
Hidden Truths ✔️
No third party breakup ✔️
Above are just some tropes 5at you’ll find within this order full book by the ever so talented Eve Blakely, and let me tell you, you WILL NOT regret reading this story.
The first thing that drew my attention to this story was the cover, I thought and continue to think that it is incredibly beautiful and unique. I feel that when I look at the cover, I relate to it somewhat with the butterflies leaving the chest, and that’s not something a cover has ever made me feel. Thy say you shouldn’t judge a book by it’s cover, but we’d be lying if we said we didn’t.
The story is told from two point of views, Olivia’s and Liv’s, the past and the present of one present. I found it extremely interesting and it was a great way to show the development of one person. At first it confused be, but once I caught on, I was in awe of both perspectives, it really helped me to understand the change that Liv went through and just how lonely she must’ve felt during her tough times. My heart ached for Liv and the feelings she experienced. Without giving too much away, how much can one person go through before they break?
EJ is officially my favourite book boyfriend alongside Brendan Taggart… An absolute sweetheart with the biggest heart despite the sadness he feels inside. He is truly the type of person you could call home, and he’ll remain that home forever. From the start, he had my heart, the confidence and cockiness he portrayed was attractive as hell, and yet while he showed those traits, he was as sweet and as gentle as anything. The perfect gentleman and I curse Eve for creating such a perfect specimen THAT DOESN’T EXIST.
If you’ve made it to the end of the review, I beg you go and read this story, your heart will break, you’ll want to cry, you’ll scream at the slow burn between Liv and EJ, you’ll be aching for more.
Love at first sight ✔️
Dreamy Bartender / Guitarist ✔️
Hidden Truths ✔️
No third party breakup ✔️
Above are just some tropes 5at you’ll find within this order full book by the ever so talented Eve Blakely, and let me tell you, you WILL NOT regret reading this story.
The first thing that drew my attention to this story was the cover, I thought and continue to think that it is incredibly beautiful and unique. I feel that when I look at the cover, I relate to it somewhat with the butterflies leaving the chest, and that’s not something a cover has ever made me feel. Thy say you shouldn’t judge a book by it’s cover, but we’d be lying if we said we didn’t.
The story is told from two point of views, Olivia’s and Liv’s, the past and the present of one present. I found it extremely interesting and it was a great way to show the development of one person. At first it confused be, but once I caught on, I was in awe of both perspectives, it really helped me to understand the change that Liv went through and just how lonely she must’ve felt during her tough times. My heart ached for Liv and the feelings she experienced. Without giving too much away, how much can one person go through before they break?
EJ is officially my favourite book boyfriend alongside Brendan Taggart… An absolute sweetheart with the biggest heart despite the sadness he feels inside. He is truly the type of person you could call home, and he’ll remain that home forever. From the start, he had my heart, the confidence and cockiness he portrayed was attractive as hell, and yet while he showed those traits, he was as sweet and as gentle as anything. The perfect gentleman and I curse Eve for creating such a perfect specimen THAT DOESN’T EXIST.
If you’ve made it to the end of the review, I beg you go and read this story, your heart will break, you’ll want to cry, you’ll scream at the slow burn between Liv and EJ, you’ll be aching for more.
Content Warnings
Moderate: Addiction, Alcoholism, Cursing, Infidelity, Car accident, Death of parent, and Alcohol
Daisy Jones & The Six by Taylor Jenkins Reid
adventurous
emotional
informative
reflective
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? It's complicated
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
5.0
Crying ✔️
Screaming ✔️
Throwing up ✔️
Traumatised ✔️
Obsessed ✔️
Above are just a few words to explain how I feel after reading this story, I am not okay. I could not put this book down unless it was to go to the toilet or sleep (yes sleep because I am on holiday).
It’s the first book of Taylor Jenkins Reid that I’ve read and I am OBSESSED with her work now, she is a talented woman and deserves everything good for this story. I was HEARTBROKEN to learn that the band is fictional, WHY WOULD YOU DO THAT TO US?!
And when the author turned out to be Julia? I DID NOT EXPECT THAT, I DID A DOUBLE TAKE AND I AM STILL NOT OVER IT. I NEED MORE!
Camila was a saint to stay with Billy, I don’t know how she could’ve stayed with Billy, my heart wouldn’t of been able to take it, but she is a lovely woman and the way she was with Daisy? I’m glad that she was so kind, what an incredible woman.
Screaming ✔️
Throwing up ✔️
Traumatised ✔️
Obsessed ✔️
Above are just a few words to explain how I feel after reading this story, I am not okay. I could not put this book down unless it was to go to the toilet or sleep (yes sleep because I am on holiday).
It’s the first book of Taylor Jenkins Reid that I’ve read and I am OBSESSED with her work now, she is a talented woman and deserves everything good for this story. I was HEARTBROKEN to learn that the band is fictional, WHY WOULD YOU DO THAT TO US?!
And when the author turned out to be Julia? I DID NOT EXPECT THAT, I DID A DOUBLE TAKE AND I AM STILL NOT OVER IT. I NEED MORE!
Camila was a saint to stay with Billy, I don’t know how she could’ve stayed with Billy, my heart wouldn’t of been able to take it, but she is a lovely woman and the way she was with Daisy? I’m glad that she was so kind, what an incredible woman.
Teaching the Teacher's Pet by Sarah Sutton
Did not finish book. Stopped at 20%.
Did not finish book. Stopped at 20%.
DNF’d at 20%, found the book incredibly boring and cliche. WHO CARES IF A GIRL IN SCHOOL IS TUTORING YOU AND SHE’S NOT THE MOST POPULAR??? It doesn’t need to be kept a secret goodness me