Scan barcode
loverofromance's reviews
4404 reviews
The Earl in Winter by Kathryn Le Veque
adventurous
mysterious
sad
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? It's complicated
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? No
3.5
My Review:
This was a very short quick novella and if you are looking for a winter theme, its not a bad one to read. But this is a tough era to read in so it might be hard for some readers so make sure your aware of the events of Culloden before moving forward with it. I do know that there is a companion book to this one with Kerrigan Byrne featuring the brother's story. While I am tempted, I am not a fan of Byrne any longer as an individual. So we shall see if I pursue that story. I did enjoy this novella, thank goodness for a non kick ass heroine. So refreshing as this author seems to be so intent on writing woke heroines. This heroine felt more relatable. The romance though was in the back story. It was a typical novella romance, and I do wish it had more drive for the story between them.
Overall a quick read in the Le Veque medieval landscape.
This was a very short quick novella and if you are looking for a winter theme, its not a bad one to read. But this is a tough era to read in so it might be hard for some readers so make sure your aware of the events of Culloden before moving forward with it. I do know that there is a companion book to this one with Kerrigan Byrne featuring the brother's story. While I am tempted, I am not a fan of Byrne any longer as an individual. So we shall see if I pursue that story. I did enjoy this novella, thank goodness for a non kick ass heroine. So refreshing as this author seems to be so intent on writing woke heroines. This heroine felt more relatable. The romance though was in the back story. It was a typical novella romance, and I do wish it had more drive for the story between them.
Overall a quick read in the Le Veque medieval landscape.
The Romantic Pact by Meghan Quinn
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
4.0
This review may contain spoilers, so fair warning, upon reading the review. Also my tags may have spoilers in them so be forewarned before checking out full review.
Book Evaluation:
Plot: ποΈποΈποΈποΈ
World Building:ππππ
Cover:ππππ
Hero: π¦Έπ»π¦Έπ»π¦Έπ»π¦Έπ»
Heroine:π¦Έπ»ββοΈπ¦Έπ»ββοΈπ¦Έπ»ββοΈπ¦Έπ»ββοΈ
Intimacy Level: π₯π₯π₯π₯
Relationship Building: ππππ
Heart & Feels:ππππ
Witty/Banter/Reaction of Laughter: ππππ
Page Turner Level:ππππ
Narration:π§π§π§π§
Ending:π§§π§§π§§
Overall View: β¨β¨β¨β¨
First Impressions
The Romantic Pact is a story that surprised me in many different ways. This is a book that was a picky for the romanceopoly reading challenge for this year and I am so happy that I was able to pick this one up here. And it was quite perfect for this time of year. I didn't even read the blurb before I started this book here. I will say that you can easily go into this book blind, but if you are in the mood for a Christmas book, this is a story that you need to read. It wasn't as football focused as I would have liked, but it delivered in other regards that compensated for it.
First Line
See those three boys over there?
The Main Protagonists
The Hero: Crew Smith
The Heroine: Hazel Allen
Summary
Crew and Hazel grew up together and became best friends while working on his grandfather's ranch. Right before Crew was to leave for college to play football and live his dreams, Hazel kissed him and Crew panicked as he felt the same for her but didn't know how to deal with the expectations so he fled to college as fast as he could. Its now been three years, and Crew's grandfather has passed away and he is shocked to learn that his grandfather had plans for him and Hazel that he never expected. His last request, was for Crew to go on a trip to Germany and his companion will be none other than Hazel Allen, the girl he never forgot and the girl he hurt more than anyone else. Hazel and Crew are forced together on a journey to explore Germany and a love is kindled in ways neither expect.
What I Loved
The Romantic Pact was a vibrant story that fed many atmospheric Christmas vibes, the setting of Germany was so unique and I loved how the author really made the story come alive with the unique details that connect you as the reader. There are so many tropes in this book that just seemed to work so very well in this one. I was so intrigued by the manner in which this story developed, especially the romance. They had a great fun banter, and you can see once they get beyond their issues, their friendship becomes even more solid than what they had before. The chemistry really grows between them. You see how their friendship quickly turns into something deeper. Both are afraid of the future, but they also don't want to deny what they feel for each other. Seeing Crew and Hazel explore their relationship on a deeper romantic level just sang to me. It was almost magical. Seeing how their situation was resolved was a bit heartbreaking at times, so buckle your seat belts, but once its resolved, it really becomes so finalized in a satisfying happy ending.
What I Struggled With
Some of the humor was a bit off putting, especially if you don't read rom com's too often. Its been a long time since I have read one, so it did detract from the enjoyment at times. But once I got halfway through, it was a lot better. So I do think that aspect was more of a "me" issue. The third act was interesting, I wasn't a fan of how it was implemented though. It just was so angsty and it felt so dramatic that will result in the reader feeling so grumpy at times. It just felt so depressing and wish how it resolved just had a bit more satisfying feeling to it then what was delivered.
Narration
I really enjoyed the narration. Not perfect or anything, but it was very solidly performs and really struck home on the emotional experience of the characters.
Overall View
I found The Romantic Pact to be a festive road trip adventure that was packed with charm and just plain fun with the beautiful cadence of Germany.
Book Details (also in my shelves)
Sub Genre: Contemporary Romance, Romantic Comedy
Character Types: Athlete, Farmer/Rancher
Themes: Heart/Touching, Laughs/Giggles, Friendship-Male Bonds
Tropes: Road Trip Adventure, Second Chance, Childhood Sweethearts, Friends to Lovers, One Bed
Relationship Conflict vs Plot Conflict
Relationship Conflict
If you like these authors, I recommend This Book
Emma Hart
Devney Perry
Susan Elizabeth Phillips
Recommendation For Reading Order
You can read as a standalone
Steam/Spice Explanations
Simmering cup of tea---soft warm touches and light intimacy
Warmin' by the fire- a medium level of sexual tension, a balance of sexual and emotional intimacy, lighter on the details in the sexual moments.
Steamin' up the room -the sexual content is more explicit in the language and tone, heavier amount of sexual scenes.
Blazing fire to the building-The prime focus is the sex scenes, scorching hot, and could burn one. Less focus on the emotional intimacy to the relationship.
Narrators:
Tim Paige, Kelsey Navarro
Book Evaluation:
Plot: ποΈποΈποΈποΈ
World Building:ππππ
Cover:ππππ
Hero: π¦Έπ»π¦Έπ»π¦Έπ»π¦Έπ»
Heroine:π¦Έπ»ββοΈπ¦Έπ»ββοΈπ¦Έπ»ββοΈπ¦Έπ»ββοΈ
Intimacy Level: π₯π₯π₯π₯
Relationship Building: ππππ
Heart & Feels:ππππ
Witty/Banter/Reaction of Laughter: ππππ
Page Turner Level:ππππ
Narration:π§π§π§π§
Ending:π§§π§§π§§
Overall View: β¨β¨β¨β¨
First Impressions
The Romantic Pact is a story that surprised me in many different ways. This is a book that was a picky for the romanceopoly reading challenge for this year and I am so happy that I was able to pick this one up here. And it was quite perfect for this time of year. I didn't even read the blurb before I started this book here. I will say that you can easily go into this book blind, but if you are in the mood for a Christmas book, this is a story that you need to read. It wasn't as football focused as I would have liked, but it delivered in other regards that compensated for it.
First Line
See those three boys over there?
The Main Protagonists
The Hero: Crew Smith
The Heroine: Hazel Allen
Summary
Crew and Hazel grew up together and became best friends while working on his grandfather's ranch. Right before Crew was to leave for college to play football and live his dreams, Hazel kissed him and Crew panicked as he felt the same for her but didn't know how to deal with the expectations so he fled to college as fast as he could. Its now been three years, and Crew's grandfather has passed away and he is shocked to learn that his grandfather had plans for him and Hazel that he never expected. His last request, was for Crew to go on a trip to Germany and his companion will be none other than Hazel Allen, the girl he never forgot and the girl he hurt more than anyone else. Hazel and Crew are forced together on a journey to explore Germany and a love is kindled in ways neither expect.
What I Loved
The Romantic Pact was a vibrant story that fed many atmospheric Christmas vibes, the setting of Germany was so unique and I loved how the author really made the story come alive with the unique details that connect you as the reader. There are so many tropes in this book that just seemed to work so very well in this one. I was so intrigued by the manner in which this story developed, especially the romance. They had a great fun banter, and you can see once they get beyond their issues, their friendship becomes even more solid than what they had before. The chemistry really grows between them. You see how their friendship quickly turns into something deeper. Both are afraid of the future, but they also don't want to deny what they feel for each other. Seeing Crew and Hazel explore their relationship on a deeper romantic level just sang to me. It was almost magical. Seeing how their situation was resolved was a bit heartbreaking at times, so buckle your seat belts, but once its resolved, it really becomes so finalized in a satisfying happy ending.
What I Struggled With
Some of the humor was a bit off putting, especially if you don't read rom com's too often. Its been a long time since I have read one, so it did detract from the enjoyment at times. But once I got halfway through, it was a lot better. So I do think that aspect was more of a "me" issue. The third act was interesting, I wasn't a fan of how it was implemented though. It just was so angsty and it felt so dramatic that will result in the reader feeling so grumpy at times. It just felt so depressing and wish how it resolved just had a bit more satisfying feeling to it then what was delivered.
Narration
I really enjoyed the narration. Not perfect or anything, but it was very solidly performs and really struck home on the emotional experience of the characters.
Overall View
I found The Romantic Pact to be a festive road trip adventure that was packed with charm and just plain fun with the beautiful cadence of Germany.
Book Details (also in my shelves)
Sub Genre: Contemporary Romance, Romantic Comedy
Character Types: Athlete, Farmer/Rancher
Themes: Heart/Touching, Laughs/Giggles, Friendship-Male Bonds
Tropes: Road Trip Adventure, Second Chance, Childhood Sweethearts, Friends to Lovers, One Bed
Relationship Conflict vs Plot Conflict
Relationship Conflict
If you like these authors, I recommend This Book
Emma Hart
Devney Perry
Susan Elizabeth Phillips
Recommendation For Reading Order
You can read as a standalone
Steam/Spice Explanations
Simmering cup of tea---soft warm touches and light intimacy
Warmin' by the fire- a medium level of sexual tension, a balance of sexual and emotional intimacy, lighter on the details in the sexual moments.
Steamin' up the room -the sexual content is more explicit in the language and tone, heavier amount of sexual scenes.
Blazing fire to the building-The prime focus is the sex scenes, scorching hot, and could burn one. Less focus on the emotional intimacy to the relationship.
Narrators:
Tim Paige, Kelsey Navarro
The Song of David by Amy Harmon
emotional
funny
mysterious
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
4.0
This review may contain spoilers, so fair warning, upon reading the review. Also my tags may have spoilers in them so be forewarned before checking out full review.
Book Evaluation:
Plot: ποΈποΈποΈποΈ
World Building:ππππ
Cover:ππππ
Hero: π¦Έπ»π¦Έπ»π¦Έπ»π¦Έπ»
Heroine:π¦Έπ»ββοΈπ¦Έπ»ββοΈπ¦Έπ»ββοΈπ¦Έπ»π¦Έπ»ββοΈ
Intimacy Level: π₯π₯
Relationship Building: ππππ
Heart & Feels:ππππ
Witty/Banter/Reaction of Laughter: ππππ
Page Turner Level:ππππ
Narration:π§π§π§π§
Ending:π§§π§§π§§π§§
Overall View: β¨β¨β¨β¨
First Impressions
The Song of David was brilliantly written and it just captivated me. Once I got into this story, I didn't want to let go of it. The characters were so awe inspiring and I loved the set up of seeing some disabilities being represented in this one. It also was written in a very unique way that I wasn't expected and I actually was all for it. The narration just captured it brilliantly, that I didn't mind the flashbacks at all, it just flowed together so smoothly.
First Line
Millie called me yesterday morning.
The Main Protagonists
The Hero: Tag
The Heroine: Millie
What I Loved
Song of David was just a emotionally captivating story. It was uniquely written and it was also a story that just digs deep into certain issues we don't always think about. Amy Harmon was brilliant with this story and I loved that it was part of a duo series with Tag's best friend. I was so intrigued to see how intricate this was woven with that friendship and the romance that comes into play. The heroine is blind and she has a young brother who is on the autistic spectrum. Tag has a painful past though and you really see him battle through some unresolved issues. The romance was slowly crafted but you can feel their intimacy. I love that Amy Harmon can write chemistry without sexual content. Its just so so refreshing. It shows you can write a good romance without sex needing to be there and she writes it just right.
What I Struggled With
It wasn't quite perfect, it started out a bit slow at times, so I think the pacing is the only thing that detracts this story.
Narration
BRILLIANT! It has Zachary Webber and he does his POV just right. I loved how it goes back and forth between the two friends, so fascinating perspective. And the flow handled was so flawless. You could barely feel the transition, so if you love books in narration, this is the way to go about it.
Overall View
Song of David was brilliantly mastered with the complexities of emotion and the human condition. It travels a unique route that will captivate its reader very quickly.
Book Details (also in my shelves)
Sub Genre: Contemporary Romance
Character Types: Tortured Hero, Disability Heroine, Dancer
Themes: Heart/Emotional, Tear Jerker, Disability, Kids/Teens
Tropes: Forced Proximity, Boss/Employee
Book Perspective
Multi POV
Relationship Conflict vs Plot Conflict
Relationship Conflict
If you like these authors, I recommend This Book
Mia Sheridan
Jennifer Hartmann
Brittany Cherry
Recommendation For Reading Order
Yes I would say read this duo series in order
Steam/Spice Explanations
Simmering cup of tea---soft warm touches and light intimacy
Warmin' by the fire- a medium level of sexual tension, a balance of sexual and emotional intimacy, lighter on the details in the sexual moments.
Steamin' up the room -the sexual content is more explicit in the language and tone, heavier amount of sexual scenes.
Blazing fire to the building-The prime focus is the sex scenes, scorching hot, and could burn one. Less focus on the emotional intimacy to the relationship.
Narrators:
JD Jackson
Zachary Webber
Book Evaluation:
Plot: ποΈποΈποΈποΈ
World Building:ππππ
Cover:ππππ
Hero: π¦Έπ»π¦Έπ»π¦Έπ»π¦Έπ»
Heroine:π¦Έπ»ββοΈπ¦Έπ»ββοΈπ¦Έπ»ββοΈπ¦Έπ»π¦Έπ»ββοΈ
Intimacy Level: π₯π₯
Relationship Building: ππππ
Heart & Feels:ππππ
Witty/Banter/Reaction of Laughter: ππππ
Page Turner Level:ππππ
Narration:π§π§π§π§
Ending:π§§π§§π§§π§§
Overall View: β¨β¨β¨β¨
First Impressions
The Song of David was brilliantly written and it just captivated me. Once I got into this story, I didn't want to let go of it. The characters were so awe inspiring and I loved the set up of seeing some disabilities being represented in this one. It also was written in a very unique way that I wasn't expected and I actually was all for it. The narration just captured it brilliantly, that I didn't mind the flashbacks at all, it just flowed together so smoothly.
First Line
Millie called me yesterday morning.
The Main Protagonists
The Hero: Tag
The Heroine: Millie
What I Loved
Song of David was just a emotionally captivating story. It was uniquely written and it was also a story that just digs deep into certain issues we don't always think about. Amy Harmon was brilliant with this story and I loved that it was part of a duo series with Tag's best friend. I was so intrigued to see how intricate this was woven with that friendship and the romance that comes into play. The heroine is blind and she has a young brother who is on the autistic spectrum. Tag has a painful past though and you really see him battle through some unresolved issues. The romance was slowly crafted but you can feel their intimacy. I love that Amy Harmon can write chemistry without sexual content. Its just so so refreshing. It shows you can write a good romance without sex needing to be there and she writes it just right.
What I Struggled With
It wasn't quite perfect, it started out a bit slow at times, so I think the pacing is the only thing that detracts this story.
Narration
BRILLIANT! It has Zachary Webber and he does his POV just right. I loved how it goes back and forth between the two friends, so fascinating perspective. And the flow handled was so flawless. You could barely feel the transition, so if you love books in narration, this is the way to go about it.
Overall View
Song of David was brilliantly mastered with the complexities of emotion and the human condition. It travels a unique route that will captivate its reader very quickly.
Book Details (also in my shelves)
Sub Genre: Contemporary Romance
Character Types: Tortured Hero, Disability Heroine, Dancer
Themes: Heart/Emotional, Tear Jerker, Disability, Kids/Teens
Tropes: Forced Proximity, Boss/Employee
Book Perspective
Multi POV
Relationship Conflict vs Plot Conflict
Relationship Conflict
If you like these authors, I recommend This Book
Mia Sheridan
Jennifer Hartmann
Brittany Cherry
Recommendation For Reading Order
Yes I would say read this duo series in order
Steam/Spice Explanations
Simmering cup of tea---soft warm touches and light intimacy
Warmin' by the fire- a medium level of sexual tension, a balance of sexual and emotional intimacy, lighter on the details in the sexual moments.
Steamin' up the room -the sexual content is more explicit in the language and tone, heavier amount of sexual scenes.
Blazing fire to the building-The prime focus is the sex scenes, scorching hot, and could burn one. Less focus on the emotional intimacy to the relationship.
Narrators:
JD Jackson
Zachary Webber
Please Me by J. Kenner
4.0
My Review:
In the novella "Please Me" we continue with the Stark Saga and delve into the relationship. I have really appreciated J.Kenner doing these novella's for this couple. This is a book that I didn't expect to have the reveals that it did, I honestly was expecting a big reveal later in the series to be honest, not in a novella. But I was captivated by seeing what we see with Damien and Nikki. My heart really went out to Nikki the most in this one, she really has to put her best strength on in this one. There were some aspects that I didn't understand in her response to Damien. I thought it kinda odd, they are married, she knows he is keeping secrets from her, but doesn't think its that big of a deal but behind closed doors, she is tormented by the secrets. I just couldn't understand why these two aren't more honest with each other. Its been years since they were married, and you would think with their type of bond, they would have this figured out, but nope lol Sometimes these books it acts like these two are new in their relationship and they just aren't new together. So I do wish we could see a bit more maturity in their relationship.
But overall it was a keeper, kept my interest and was a delight from beginning to end despite the flaws we see in their relationship.
In the novella "Please Me" we continue with the Stark Saga and delve into the relationship. I have really appreciated J.Kenner doing these novella's for this couple. This is a book that I didn't expect to have the reveals that it did, I honestly was expecting a big reveal later in the series to be honest, not in a novella. But I was captivated by seeing what we see with Damien and Nikki. My heart really went out to Nikki the most in this one, she really has to put her best strength on in this one. There were some aspects that I didn't understand in her response to Damien. I thought it kinda odd, they are married, she knows he is keeping secrets from her, but doesn't think its that big of a deal but behind closed doors, she is tormented by the secrets. I just couldn't understand why these two aren't more honest with each other. Its been years since they were married, and you would think with their type of bond, they would have this figured out, but nope lol Sometimes these books it acts like these two are new in their relationship and they just aren't new together. So I do wish we could see a bit more maturity in their relationship.
But overall it was a keeper, kept my interest and was a delight from beginning to end despite the flaws we see in their relationship.
Peanut Goes to School by Thea Harrison
5.0
My Review
The most charming story EVER! I absolutely adored everything about this one Just the family dynamics and the way we got to see little Liam have his own POV and the blend of innocence and wisdom in such a little boy. We also get to see some fun couple dynamics, but in all honestly, the focus of the story is with Peanut aka Liam. I really enjoyed this novella and it kept me captivated from beginning to end. And normally I need more romance, but honestly, the way that this was written just melted my heart. I was kinda hoping to see more of Dragos with his amnesia as the previous book didn't exactly have a fully satisfying ending.
Overall I was endeared from beginning to end, and if you love Dragos and Pia, then you must read these stories. I adored seeing how they were so one together. And I can' wait to see more of this family throughout the rest of the series.
The most charming story EVER! I absolutely adored everything about this one Just the family dynamics and the way we got to see little Liam have his own POV and the blend of innocence and wisdom in such a little boy. We also get to see some fun couple dynamics, but in all honestly, the focus of the story is with Peanut aka Liam. I really enjoyed this novella and it kept me captivated from beginning to end. And normally I need more romance, but honestly, the way that this was written just melted my heart. I was kinda hoping to see more of Dragos with his amnesia as the previous book didn't exactly have a fully satisfying ending.
Overall I was endeared from beginning to end, and if you love Dragos and Pia, then you must read these stories. I adored seeing how they were so one together. And I can' wait to see more of this family throughout the rest of the series.
Three Bells, Two Bows and One Brother's Best Friend by Willa Nash
3.5
My Review:
This was such an adorable story, I really had a fun time with it and it was also a reminder that I need to be reading more of this author, I have really been neglecting Devney Perry and this story was charming and beyond endearing and a great quick Christmas read. So if you are looking for some solid Christmas novella's to just pass the time for the holiday season, then this is a series to stick with. Its based upon a trio of brothers and in this one it has one of my favorite tropes. This book really showed why Brother's Best Friend is my favorite trope. The dynamic between the characters was so interesting. It has a mix of friends to lovers, office close proximity, and unrequited love and a touch of forbidden love. So it has some fantastic elements that just comes together so flawlessly. I did this one in audio and I can't recommend this one enough.
This was such an adorable story, I really had a fun time with it and it was also a reminder that I need to be reading more of this author, I have really been neglecting Devney Perry and this story was charming and beyond endearing and a great quick Christmas read. So if you are looking for some solid Christmas novella's to just pass the time for the holiday season, then this is a series to stick with. Its based upon a trio of brothers and in this one it has one of my favorite tropes. This book really showed why Brother's Best Friend is my favorite trope. The dynamic between the characters was so interesting. It has a mix of friends to lovers, office close proximity, and unrequited love and a touch of forbidden love. So it has some fantastic elements that just comes together so flawlessly. I did this one in audio and I can't recommend this one enough.
After Dark with the Duke by Julie Anne Long
emotional
hopeful
inspiring
lighthearted
reflective
relaxing
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? It's complicated
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
3.0
My Review:
This was a book I had been looking forward to, but due to the festive Christmas feeling on the cover, I wanted to wait until the Christmas season before I picked it up as I have been wanting to work through this author's backlist of books which I haven't yet read. So I was pretty excited for this one and I think part of issue with my experience for this one was the narration. Its really true that a narration can either make or break a book. And unfortunately the narration I think ruined this book for me. I just became really bored with this book and just felt no connection to the story and maybe it was just me but there was no atmosphere for Christmas so I feel betrayed by the cover lol
I think the rest of this author's books I will be physically reading because I can be picky about historical's on audio. I did end up finishing the book physically through my kindle, and it was so much better so I am really regretting it. Maybe next year I will try rereading it physically and see if I enjoy it more than I did this time around. I would still recommend, but I would say its most likely a better option to read this physically over grabbing up the audiobook.
This was a book I had been looking forward to, but due to the festive Christmas feeling on the cover, I wanted to wait until the Christmas season before I picked it up as I have been wanting to work through this author's backlist of books which I haven't yet read. So I was pretty excited for this one and I think part of issue with my experience for this one was the narration. Its really true that a narration can either make or break a book. And unfortunately the narration I think ruined this book for me. I just became really bored with this book and just felt no connection to the story and maybe it was just me but there was no atmosphere for Christmas so I feel betrayed by the cover lol
I think the rest of this author's books I will be physically reading because I can be picky about historical's on audio. I did end up finishing the book physically through my kindle, and it was so much better so I am really regretting it. Maybe next year I will try rereading it physically and see if I enjoy it more than I did this time around. I would still recommend, but I would say its most likely a better option to read this physically over grabbing up the audiobook.
The Christmas Cookie Chronicles: Grace by Lori Wilde
challenging
funny
tense
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? No
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
3.0
My Review
this is a novella done by Avon Impulse, that is a short story of the Christmas Chronicles but is also loosely connected to the Twilight Texas series. So if you are familiar with that series, then I can recommend this book to you. These are great shorts that have some fun holiday delights.
In this book, this involves a Christmas legend, some magic, fated love and reunited lovers finding each other again. The heroine was a bit prickyl, and she is such a SCROOGE lol She literally hates everything Christmas. She comes face to face with her high school sweetheart, and they were once married, but in the end they weren't meant to be at the time. Mark once broke her heart, and has created a whole different life for himself. But when he comes back to their hometown, they run into each other and have to face up to their past.
I found this short story to be adorable. Its under 100 pages, so its a very quick read. It had a very hallmark feel to the story. Just poignant and charming with some fun laughs along the way. If you are looking for some Christmas fun, then I recommend this one out to you.
this is a novella done by Avon Impulse, that is a short story of the Christmas Chronicles but is also loosely connected to the Twilight Texas series. So if you are familiar with that series, then I can recommend this book to you. These are great shorts that have some fun holiday delights.
In this book, this involves a Christmas legend, some magic, fated love and reunited lovers finding each other again. The heroine was a bit prickyl, and she is such a SCROOGE lol She literally hates everything Christmas. She comes face to face with her high school sweetheart, and they were once married, but in the end they weren't meant to be at the time. Mark once broke her heart, and has created a whole different life for himself. But when he comes back to their hometown, they run into each other and have to face up to their past.
I found this short story to be adorable. Its under 100 pages, so its a very quick read. It had a very hallmark feel to the story. Just poignant and charming with some fun laughs along the way. If you are looking for some Christmas fun, then I recommend this one out to you.
Christmas at the Shelter Inn by RaeAnne Thayne
adventurous
challenging
emotional
hopeful
lighthearted
reflective
relaxing
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? It's complicated
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
3.5
My Review:
Its been quite some time since I have had a opportunity to read an RaeAnne Thayne and I was quite intrigued with this one here. I was curious to see where this author would go with this one here and I did enjoy it for the most part. But I do think this review is a bit of a symptom of the narration ruining the story a bit for me. It doesn't happen, but it did happen. The heroine POV in this one was just done not well at all. She just came off super cold and cynical and calculating and I don't think that was the author's intention. So I just couldn't get on board with the heroine much because of her attitude or how she was represented by the narration. But I did stick with the story, it just wasn't one that I want to keep with so it took some time to get through. I did find the set up intriguing. I loved the dynamic of the heroine coming to visit her family and taking care of her nieces while her sister is on bed rest for her third pregnancy. The hero was delectable though, he is intelligent and kind and so attentive with children. It was so charming to see him interacting with Natalie and her nieces. The atmospheric vibe was on point like it normally is with this author. The romance while in some respects was done well, I just feel like there could have been more swoon moments, it was too few and in between. Felt a bit more like women's fiction at times to be honest. But I was still intrigued by the story and wanted to keep with it. Just wish the heroine and the romance had been a bit more focused on those elements, because this author can write it very well.
Overall it was a solid story that while had its flaws, was very redeemable and kept me engaged from beginning to end.
Its been quite some time since I have had a opportunity to read an RaeAnne Thayne and I was quite intrigued with this one here. I was curious to see where this author would go with this one here and I did enjoy it for the most part. But I do think this review is a bit of a symptom of the narration ruining the story a bit for me. It doesn't happen, but it did happen. The heroine POV in this one was just done not well at all. She just came off super cold and cynical and calculating and I don't think that was the author's intention. So I just couldn't get on board with the heroine much because of her attitude or how she was represented by the narration. But I did stick with the story, it just wasn't one that I want to keep with so it took some time to get through. I did find the set up intriguing. I loved the dynamic of the heroine coming to visit her family and taking care of her nieces while her sister is on bed rest for her third pregnancy. The hero was delectable though, he is intelligent and kind and so attentive with children. It was so charming to see him interacting with Natalie and her nieces. The atmospheric vibe was on point like it normally is with this author. The romance while in some respects was done well, I just feel like there could have been more swoon moments, it was too few and in between. Felt a bit more like women's fiction at times to be honest. But I was still intrigued by the story and wanted to keep with it. Just wish the heroine and the romance had been a bit more focused on those elements, because this author can write it very well.
Overall it was a solid story that while had its flaws, was very redeemable and kept me engaged from beginning to end.
Pia Saves The Day by Thea Harrison
adventurous
challenging
sad
tense
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
4.0
My Review:
What a superb novella with Dragos and Pia and I have mixed feelings on how everything got resolved with this one. This is where we see Dragos and Pia really go through some hardship here. Dragos gets in a accident and ends up with amnesia and not remembering his mate or their son. It was super heart wrenching to see what Pia goes through on this and trying to connect with Dragos again so she can heal him and help him with his memories to come back. I can't imagine anything rougher on a couple like these two, then having to go through that together. And even though I loved seeing their journey to come back together, I also wish it had been a bit more resolved. But there is a another novella coming up with their son where I am hoping that we see it all finalized together. But overall it was blast getting back to this couple and seeing them work through conflicts together in their HEA.
Favorite Quote:
" In the fourteen months they had been together, the desire had never changed. Elemental, as necessary as breathing, it dictated the rhythm of their lives. They orbited around each other, always looking, always reaching for the other, but it never ceased to amaze her that he looked at her this way. "
What a superb novella with Dragos and Pia and I have mixed feelings on how everything got resolved with this one. This is where we see Dragos and Pia really go through some hardship here. Dragos gets in a accident and ends up with amnesia and not remembering his mate or their son. It was super heart wrenching to see what Pia goes through on this and trying to connect with Dragos again so she can heal him and help him with his memories to come back. I can't imagine anything rougher on a couple like these two, then having to go through that together. And even though I loved seeing their journey to come back together, I also wish it had been a bit more resolved. But there is a another novella coming up with their son where I am hoping that we see it all finalized together. But overall it was blast getting back to this couple and seeing them work through conflicts together in their HEA.
Favorite Quote:
" In the fourteen months they had been together, the desire had never changed. Elemental, as necessary as breathing, it dictated the rhythm of their lives. They orbited around each other, always looking, always reaching for the other, but it never ceased to amaze her that he looked at her this way. "