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parklandmom's reviews
796 reviews
Merry Kisses by Valerie Comer
3.25
Completed: Mar. 28/25
Series: Riverbend Romance, #5
Format: Kindle e-book
Challenge Prompt: CFG's "set in winter" - it is set in the Christmas season
Book #38 of 2025: I've now read the entire Riverbend Romance collection of 5 novellas. My favourite would be the third one, which is actually the first one I read. This one seemed much like the fourth one set in another season.
The unusual hang-up for the FMC in this one was more believable than the last novella. However, it wasn't until later in the story did I realize the depth of the oppressive legalism that she grew up in. While I'm not a big fan of the entire "Santa" thing, there is nothing wrong with a sprinkling of some whimsy with the truth of the actual reason for Christmas as priority.
The author certainly captures the chemistry and capitalizes on the friendships of the community. It's nice seeing the past couples show up and be a part of the story.
Series: Riverbend Romance, #5
Format: Kindle e-book
Challenge Prompt: CFG's "set in winter" - it is set in the Christmas season
Book #38 of 2025: I've now read the entire Riverbend Romance collection of 5 novellas. My favourite would be the third one, which is actually the first one I read. This one seemed much like the fourth one set in another season.
The unusual hang-up for the FMC in this one was more believable than the last novella. However, it wasn't until later in the story did I realize the depth of the oppressive legalism that she grew up in. While I'm not a big fan of the entire "Santa" thing, there is nothing wrong with a sprinkling of some whimsy with the truth of the actual reason for Christmas as priority.
The author certainly captures the chemistry and capitalizes on the friendships of the community. It's nice seeing the past couples show up and be a part of the story.
Team Bride by Valerie Comer
3.25
Completed: Mar. 27/25
Series: Riverbend Romance, #4
Format: Kindle e-Book
Challenge Prompt: ARoCF's "features a fall-related get together" -- community fall festival, Thanksgiving family meal, apple harvest
Book #37 of 2025: I've read and enjoyed the previous 3 novellas in this series. If I am being honest, this one would have been better with a different premise. The bad flower girl experience shouldn't have caused a 28 year-old grown woman to be so upset, bitter, and traumatized. Sure it was embarrassing. They were kids. Most people would have laughed it all off as they got older.
I realize that what happened after that wedding of years ago within her family was the bigger and deeper issue. Conflating the two wasn't believable. Their quick rush to, "I love you" was based on so little time and her immature and huge reaction at his Aunt's house was really questionable as to her readiness to be married. It just wasn't behaviour of a 28 year-old adult.
I really enjoyed everything else - the reverse grumpy-sunshine trope, his romantic gifts, and that last chapter!
Series: Riverbend Romance, #4
Format: Kindle e-Book
Challenge Prompt: ARoCF's "features a fall-related get together" -- community fall festival, Thanksgiving family meal, apple harvest
Book #37 of 2025: I've read and enjoyed the previous 3 novellas in this series. If I am being honest, this one would have been better with a different premise. The bad flower girl experience shouldn't have caused a 28 year-old grown woman to be so upset, bitter, and traumatized. Sure it was embarrassing. They were kids. Most people would have laughed it all off as they got older.
I realize that what happened after that wedding of years ago within her family was the bigger and deeper issue. Conflating the two wasn't believable. Their quick rush to, "I love you" was based on so little time and her immature and huge reaction at his Aunt's house was really questionable as to her readiness to be married. It just wasn't behaviour of a 28 year-old adult.
I really enjoyed everything else - the reverse grumpy-sunshine trope, his romantic gifts, and that last chapter!
The Other Sister by Jessica R. Patch
3.0
Completed: Mar. 26th
Format: Advanced Reader Copy (digital)
Challenge Prompt: CNL's "little or no romance" -- this psychological thriller has virtually nothing to do with romance
Book #36 of 2025: My review is a mixed bag so please bear with me. I will share what I enjoyed as well as that which I didn't care for.
This novel, in my personal opinion, is a clean psychological thriller. It is free of cursing and graphic scenes. The cover is really well done and suits the story. The writing is strong and it's full of many twists and turns that are difficult to predict or guess. The premise is very intriguing and the title *definitely* fits.
One of my two favourite passages from the novel is, "Want is an open grave that needs to be constantly filled." I found that to be very profound and convicting. The other comes 3/4 of the way through when Charlotte has a deep revelation of her twin sister, Acelynn. I read it over several times, especially the line that read, "And you will always find what you want to see." How true is that of our world in general?!
The main character, Charlotte, is somewhat difficult to like. She's been through many tough times and has a lot of battle scars. She had a drug addict for a mom as well as some very harrowing foster placements. Her adult life is somewhat unknown but she has a lot of street smarts and experience that cause the reader to question her a little and feel somewhat detached. I found myself torn between feeling sorry for Charlotte and being totally exasperated with her. In many ways, I felt she seemed to be what is referred to as an "unreliable narrator." I wanted to scream, "LISTEN TO TILLIE!!!" However, it's hard for me to relate to someone who has had such tragedy and horror.
The same day the twins meet, something happens and Charlotte has to assume Acelynn's life. Even with her previous research and her knack for accents, the stretch to carry it off is gargantuan. She quickly learns that this life she had just envied is not at all what it appears. Everyone seems to have secrets and the lies are everywhere. Everything and everyone is shallow and most are mean and spiteful. The relationships are odd to say the least. On top of all of that, there is a serial killer on the loose.
There is a second storyline from someone else who is not identified. The book became very dark and very heavy. I can't really explain it except to say that I felt an unease that didn't sit well with me. While I know evil exists, an evil child is unsettling. I've read many psychological thrillers and high-octane suspense books but this was a new feeling for me.
The character of Christian Patrick gives a bit of a glimpse into a very different way of life through faith. Charlotte does sense something about him but she doesn't trust him until the end in the aftermath. He becomes a representative of justice and proof that there are good people out there who do the right thing. Her best friend, Tillie, represents true friendship and honesty. There is an act of redemption with Charlotte at the end, but we are given virtually no details. We couldn't really sit in that moment with the character because it was brief and vague.
A huge sticking point for me is close to the end of the book. A particularly sick topic comes up more than once that I didn't feel was needed. It didn't help the story. I actually felt that it took away from the book. It made me cringe and feel queasy, to be honest. Ironically the novel included the reference to VC Andrews,' Flowers in the Attic. (Like every other young teen, that was the book to read in the early 80s. Little did I know what I was in for back then. It didn't belong in a school library at all and this novel includes the same topic.). This book is for adults but I stand by my opinion that it was unnecessary. There is a lot of ugly in the world and I fully realize that, but I still wish it wasn't included.
Though I can appreciate twists and turns, I felt that aspect was a little excessive, as with the previous release. I liken it to enjoying a certain treat but then you have too much and it takes away a little of your appreciation for it.
The main twist of the book is really well done. This book will likely appeal to those who enjoy psychological thrillers but certain aspects may not appeal to some. The ending is quite the eye-popper!
*** My thanks to Love Inspired Trade and Net Galley for an advance digital copy. My honest review is voluntary and exclusively in my own words.
Format: Advanced Reader Copy (digital)
Challenge Prompt: CNL's "little or no romance" -- this psychological thriller has virtually nothing to do with romance
Book #36 of 2025: My review is a mixed bag so please bear with me. I will share what I enjoyed as well as that which I didn't care for.
This novel, in my personal opinion, is a clean psychological thriller. It is free of cursing and graphic scenes. The cover is really well done and suits the story. The writing is strong and it's full of many twists and turns that are difficult to predict or guess. The premise is very intriguing and the title *definitely* fits.
One of my two favourite passages from the novel is, "Want is an open grave that needs to be constantly filled." I found that to be very profound and convicting. The other comes 3/4 of the way through when Charlotte has a deep revelation of her twin sister, Acelynn. I read it over several times, especially the line that read, "And you will always find what you want to see." How true is that of our world in general?!
The main character, Charlotte, is somewhat difficult to like. She's been through many tough times and has a lot of battle scars. She had a drug addict for a mom as well as some very harrowing foster placements. Her adult life is somewhat unknown but she has a lot of street smarts and experience that cause the reader to question her a little and feel somewhat detached. I found myself torn between feeling sorry for Charlotte and being totally exasperated with her. In many ways, I felt she seemed to be what is referred to as an "unreliable narrator." I wanted to scream, "LISTEN TO TILLIE!!!" However, it's hard for me to relate to someone who has had such tragedy and horror.
The same day the twins meet, something happens and Charlotte has to assume Acelynn's life. Even with her previous research and her knack for accents, the stretch to carry it off is gargantuan. She quickly learns that this life she had just envied is not at all what it appears. Everyone seems to have secrets and the lies are everywhere. Everything and everyone is shallow and most are mean and spiteful. The relationships are odd to say the least. On top of all of that, there is a serial killer on the loose.
There is a second storyline from someone else who is not identified. The book became very dark and very heavy. I can't really explain it except to say that I felt an unease that didn't sit well with me. While I know evil exists, an evil child is unsettling. I've read many psychological thrillers and high-octane suspense books but this was a new feeling for me.
The character of Christian Patrick gives a bit of a glimpse into a very different way of life through faith. Charlotte does sense something about him but she doesn't trust him until the end in the aftermath. He becomes a representative of justice and proof that there are good people out there who do the right thing. Her best friend, Tillie, represents true friendship and honesty. There is an act of redemption with Charlotte at the end, but we are given virtually no details. We couldn't really sit in that moment with the character because it was brief and vague.
A huge sticking point for me is close to the end of the book. A particularly sick topic comes up more than once that I didn't feel was needed. It didn't help the story. I actually felt that it took away from the book. It made me cringe and feel queasy, to be honest. Ironically the novel included the reference to VC Andrews,' Flowers in the Attic. (Like every other young teen, that was the book to read in the early 80s. Little did I know what I was in for back then. It didn't belong in a school library at all and this novel includes the same topic.). This book is for adults but I stand by my opinion that it was unnecessary. There is a lot of ugly in the world and I fully realize that, but I still wish it wasn't included.
Though I can appreciate twists and turns, I felt that aspect was a little excessive, as with the previous release. I liken it to enjoying a certain treat but then you have too much and it takes away a little of your appreciation for it.
The main twist of the book is really well done. This book will likely appeal to those who enjoy psychological thrillers but certain aspects may not appeal to some. The ending is quite the eye-popper!
*** My thanks to Love Inspired Trade and Net Galley for an advance digital copy. My honest review is voluntary and exclusively in my own words.
The Summer of You and Me by Denise Hunter
5.0
Completed: Mar. 24/25
Format: Advanced Reader Copy (digital)
Challenge Prompt: CFG's "a book with all the summer vibes" -- title/setting, beach, carnival, water
Book #35 of 2025: This novel is the book equivalent of having the softest blanket + the best homemade hot cocoa + the coziest chair near a fireplace + an amazing mountain view. [Insert blissful, contented sigh here.]
I've read a number of Denise Hunter novels and I truly believe they keep getting better. I've read the advanced copies of her last few and I gave her last release 5 stars. Yet... I love this one even a little more. (You'll have to read it to understand!).
This wasn't an easy story. Some may look at a romance developing between a widow (Maggie) and her late husband's brother as unacceptable or weird. I wondered how the author would handle it, yet she did it so well that it was endearing. Maggie had been widowed nearly five years and they'd always been close friends. He was a huge support system to her and the baby girl born after her late husband was killed. She had no idea he had feelings for her since they had met as teenagers. She dated and married his brother so he buried it and left it alone. Rightfully so.
It's truly a beautiful story of being yourself and taking a chance. You can't help but respect Josh and Maggie both. The depth of their friendship and mutual support is incredible. The ZING between them makes you want to grin ear-to-ear in a most ridiculous fashion.
The mystery element in this book is so intriguing. Maggie spots a doppelgänger of her late husband through her camera lens while at a carnival. She shares it with Josh and they're both shell-shocked. You find yourself wondering all the plausible scenarios right along with Maggie and Josh. It is a journey of discovery in more ways than either of them ever expected. There is joy, disappointment, shock, anger, heartache, and incredulity. And the HEA...happily ever after...is OFF the charts -- arm pumps, squeals of glee, and more blissful sighing cannot be helped.
I cannot recommend this *unique romance with a twist* enough! Be prepared to read from cover to cover in an oh-so-uber-satisfactory-way!
>>> HUGE thanks to Thomas Nelson and Net Galley for providing an advanced reader copy of this novel. This is my voluntary review and in my own words.
Format: Advanced Reader Copy (digital)
Challenge Prompt: CFG's "a book with all the summer vibes" -- title/setting, beach, carnival, water
Book #35 of 2025: This novel is the book equivalent of having the softest blanket + the best homemade hot cocoa + the coziest chair near a fireplace + an amazing mountain view. [Insert blissful, contented sigh here.]
I've read a number of Denise Hunter novels and I truly believe they keep getting better. I've read the advanced copies of her last few and I gave her last release 5 stars. Yet... I love this one even a little more. (You'll have to read it to understand!).
This wasn't an easy story. Some may look at a romance developing between a widow (Maggie) and her late husband's brother as unacceptable or weird. I wondered how the author would handle it, yet she did it so well that it was endearing. Maggie had been widowed nearly five years and they'd always been close friends. He was a huge support system to her and the baby girl born after her late husband was killed. She had no idea he had feelings for her since they had met as teenagers. She dated and married his brother so he buried it and left it alone. Rightfully so.
It's truly a beautiful story of being yourself and taking a chance. You can't help but respect Josh and Maggie both. The depth of their friendship and mutual support is incredible. The ZING between them makes you want to grin ear-to-ear in a most ridiculous fashion.
The mystery element in this book is so intriguing. Maggie spots a doppelgänger of her late husband through her camera lens while at a carnival. She shares it with Josh and they're both shell-shocked. You find yourself wondering all the plausible scenarios right along with Maggie and Josh. It is a journey of discovery in more ways than either of them ever expected. There is joy, disappointment, shock, anger, heartache, and incredulity. And the HEA...happily ever after...is OFF the charts -- arm pumps, squeals of glee, and more blissful sighing cannot be helped.
I cannot recommend this *unique romance with a twist* enough! Be prepared to read from cover to cover in an oh-so-uber-satisfactory-way!
>>> HUGE thanks to Thomas Nelson and Net Galley for providing an advanced reader copy of this novel. This is my voluntary review and in my own words.
First Love, Second Draft by Becca Kinzer
3.0
Completed: Mar. 23/25
Format: Advanced Reader Copy (digital)
Challenge Prompt: ARoCF's "a book that includes your birthday month" -- this book mentions my birthday month 5X and I only know that through the search function
Book #34 of 2025: I always struggle with this sort of review. As much as I try to not compare one author's book with another one of their books, it's impossible. I do love Becca Kinzer's debut. It is a smart and hilarious book yet wasn't fluffy or without good meaning. Book 2 wasn't for me. This one falls in the middle. It had some funny moments and touching moments that I really enjoyed; but, it also had some issues.
I'll just get my "CONs" out of the way before I share my "PRO":
1. The second POV from the female main character's nephew made no sense within •Gracie's• story. Don't get me wrong, I enjoyed his story but it should have been in a different book. These two stories weren't really connected except as aunt and nephew. It was very puzzling.
2. The story felt choppy for me. Some of the transitions felt as though I missed something. I'd go back and look to see if I accidentally skipped ahead on my Kindle, but no.
3. The ending was a little odd for me. Both decided to actually do something very last minute but it felt half-hearted. It didn't feel like Gracie or Noah had any growth or understanding of each other's perspective, outside of the Morris story.
4. Sometimes I felt as though I was reading filler that didn't contribute to Gracie and Noah's story and that's likely why it felt choppy and incomplete to me. I wasn't ever invested. The ending, though happy, felt a little forced and unsatisfying.
5. The cover. I've never been a fan of illustrated covers. They feel like they fit younger teenagers. The main characters are 40-ish. It doesn't fit.
The "PROs":
1. There is some really good witty humour and sarcasm that I enjoyed.
2. I like the Dad a lot but wish he had a stronger presence within the story.
3. Though Gracie's sister, Mona, seems to be very disliked in the reviews I saw, I think she is very memorable, even if she is insufferable and annoying. She DID have a growth arc that I wish I had seen in Gracie and Noah.
4. The Morris story is significant and helps the reader to understand Gracie better.
5. The scene with her Dad toward the end is good. It would be even better if his presence had been in the book more, as I mentioned in my second point.
>>> My thanks and appreciation to Tyndale and Net Galley for providing me with an advanced reader copy. My review is voluntary, sincere, and in my own words.
Format: Advanced Reader Copy (digital)
Challenge Prompt: ARoCF's "a book that includes your birthday month" -- this book mentions my birthday month 5X and I only know that through the search function
Book #34 of 2025: I always struggle with this sort of review. As much as I try to not compare one author's book with another one of their books, it's impossible. I do love Becca Kinzer's debut. It is a smart and hilarious book yet wasn't fluffy or without good meaning. Book 2 wasn't for me. This one falls in the middle. It had some funny moments and touching moments that I really enjoyed; but, it also had some issues.
I'll just get my "CONs" out of the way before I share my "PRO":
1. The second POV from the female main character's nephew made no sense within •Gracie's• story. Don't get me wrong, I enjoyed his story but it should have been in a different book. These two stories weren't really connected except as aunt and nephew. It was very puzzling.
2. The story felt choppy for me. Some of the transitions felt as though I missed something. I'd go back and look to see if I accidentally skipped ahead on my Kindle, but no.
3. The ending was a little odd for me. Both decided to actually do something very last minute but it felt half-hearted. It didn't feel like Gracie or Noah had any growth or understanding of each other's perspective, outside of the Morris story.
4. Sometimes I felt as though I was reading filler that didn't contribute to Gracie and Noah's story and that's likely why it felt choppy and incomplete to me. I wasn't ever invested. The ending, though happy, felt a little forced and unsatisfying.
5. The cover. I've never been a fan of illustrated covers. They feel like they fit younger teenagers. The main characters are 40-ish. It doesn't fit.
The "PROs":
1. There is some really good witty humour and sarcasm that I enjoyed.
2. I like the Dad a lot but wish he had a stronger presence within the story.
3. Though Gracie's sister, Mona, seems to be very disliked in the reviews I saw, I think she is very memorable, even if she is insufferable and annoying. She DID have a growth arc that I wish I had seen in Gracie and Noah.
4. The Morris story is significant and helps the reader to understand Gracie better.
5. The scene with her Dad toward the end is good. It would be even better if his presence had been in the book more, as I mentioned in my second point.
>>> My thanks and appreciation to Tyndale and Net Galley for providing me with an advanced reader copy. My review is voluntary, sincere, and in my own words.
Shattered Sanctuary by Nancy Mehl
4.5
Completed: Mar. 20/25
Series: Erin Delaney Mysteries, #1
Format: audiobook with Audible
Narrator: Stephanie Einstein - First time hearing this narrator. I liked all of her voices excepting the voice for Erin. It was too formal and snooty-sounding. It didn't fit her character. Everything else was great!
Challenge Prompt: CFG's "suspense, mystery, or horror" -- suspense with a mystery
Book #34 of 2025: I think this may be my favourite Nancy Mehl novel yet! I enjoyed this new lead character, Erin. And having Kaely Quinn-Hunter (from a previous series) in the story made it even better! What was supposed to be a restful vacation for Erin ends up being serious business with a serial killer on the loose. There are also some lighter moments in the story with the café that pays homage to Dolly Parton, an injured and homeless dog, a quirky secretary, etc.
The storyline with the serial killer is very interesting. I had a couple of concerns about the killer's reasoning and motivation; but then I realized I was trying to make an insane sociopath have reasoning! Sheesh!
The friendship between Erin and Kaely is special. They work together so well to help the police chief with the very unexpected serial killer mystery. Erin as a former police officer, and Kaely as an FBI agent, are even better as a team. Even more than that is how sincere and dedicated Kaely is to being there for her friend. She prayerfully asks for guidance to help Erin through a very rough time. Erin's situation is precarious and we see her take great strides throughout the novel.
I'm looking forward to the rest of the series to see where things go with Erin, the police chief, and the various Sanctuary characters. I'm hoping Kaely returns again because the symbiotic nature between her and Erin is amazing.
Series: Erin Delaney Mysteries, #1
Format: audiobook with Audible
Narrator: Stephanie Einstein - First time hearing this narrator. I liked all of her voices excepting the voice for Erin. It was too formal and snooty-sounding. It didn't fit her character. Everything else was great!
Challenge Prompt: CFG's "suspense, mystery, or horror" -- suspense with a mystery
Book #34 of 2025: I think this may be my favourite Nancy Mehl novel yet! I enjoyed this new lead character, Erin. And having Kaely Quinn-Hunter (from a previous series) in the story made it even better! What was supposed to be a restful vacation for Erin ends up being serious business with a serial killer on the loose. There are also some lighter moments in the story with the café that pays homage to Dolly Parton, an injured and homeless dog, a quirky secretary, etc.
The storyline with the serial killer is very interesting. I had a couple of concerns about the killer's reasoning and motivation; but then I realized I was trying to make an insane sociopath have reasoning! Sheesh!
The friendship between Erin and Kaely is special. They work together so well to help the police chief with the very unexpected serial killer mystery. Erin as a former police officer, and Kaely as an FBI agent, are even better as a team. Even more than that is how sincere and dedicated Kaely is to being there for her friend. She prayerfully asks for guidance to help Erin through a very rough time. Erin's situation is precarious and we see her take great strides throughout the novel.
I'm looking forward to the rest of the series to see where things go with Erin, the police chief, and the various Sanctuary characters. I'm hoping Kaely returns again because the symbiotic nature between her and Erin is amazing.
Unknown Heiress: Long Lost Irish Secrets by Peggy McGee
2.0
Completed: Mar. 18/25
Format: Kindle e-Book
Challenge Prompt: FFF's "Irish roots" -- set in Ireland with various Irish characters
Book #32 of 2025: New-to-me author and Kindle freebie - clean fiction
The storyline held promise and for the first few chapters, I saw potential for a great story. Shortly after she got to Ireland, it lost its appeal for me.
• First, it is rather shortsighted of her not to verify the paternity before going overseas to live there.
• Second, there isn't much focus on Kaela and her biological dad getting to know one another, especially in light of his illness. They don't spend a lot of time together or talking.
• There are so many revolving characters that I felt I needed a list to refer to. The focus jumps around amongst these minor characters and what Kaela does to help them.
• The drama with the cousin could have made the book a little more exciting but it doesn't seem to go anywhere. He basically gets away with everything rather than justice being met in the way.
• I was so tired of reading about beer... I know it's Ireland but surely there is more to the country than beer. Not my cup of tea anyway.
• Kaela finding her place in the world is definitely a main objective in this story. She denies wanting a relationship but then feels jealous as her friends pair off. She then wants someone to share her life with. I like who she ends up with but things happen so fast that it makes a reader feel gypped. More time is spent on her friends' relationships than her own.
• The story just went in so many directions with so many people that I simply finished it to meet a book challenge prompt. Otherwise I may have just DNF'd t, sorry.
• The Epilogue was long-winded.
I gave it 2 stars because I enjoyed the first few chapters and some of the ending. The storyline could have been really strong, but it wasn't, unfortunately. This is not a style I wish to read again. This author is not for me personally. This may suit others but I can only speak from my viewpoint.
Format: Kindle e-Book
Challenge Prompt: FFF's "Irish roots" -- set in Ireland with various Irish characters
Book #32 of 2025: New-to-me author and Kindle freebie - clean fiction
The storyline held promise and for the first few chapters, I saw potential for a great story. Shortly after she got to Ireland, it lost its appeal for me.
• First, it is rather shortsighted of her not to verify the paternity before going overseas to live there.
• Second, there isn't much focus on Kaela and her biological dad getting to know one another, especially in light of his illness. They don't spend a lot of time together or talking.
• There are so many revolving characters that I felt I needed a list to refer to. The focus jumps around amongst these minor characters and what Kaela does to help them.
• The drama with the cousin could have made the book a little more exciting but it doesn't seem to go anywhere. He basically gets away with everything rather than justice being met in the way.
• I was so tired of reading about beer... I know it's Ireland but surely there is more to the country than beer. Not my cup of tea anyway.
• Kaela finding her place in the world is definitely a main objective in this story. She denies wanting a relationship but then feels jealous as her friends pair off. She then wants someone to share her life with. I like who she ends up with but things happen so fast that it makes a reader feel gypped. More time is spent on her friends' relationships than her own.
• The story just went in so many directions with so many people that I simply finished it to meet a book challenge prompt. Otherwise I may have just DNF'd t, sorry.
• The Epilogue was long-winded.
I gave it 2 stars because I enjoyed the first few chapters and some of the ending. The storyline could have been really strong, but it wasn't, unfortunately. This is not a style I wish to read again. This author is not for me personally. This may suit others but I can only speak from my viewpoint.
A Messed-Up Match by Jessica R. Patch
3.75
Completed: Mar. 16/25
Series: Resort to Romance Collection, #2
Format: Kindle e-Book
Challenge Prompt: EOW's, "set in an exotic location" -- DURING OPTION -- set in Bahamas
Book #31 of 2025: This is a small novella. It's fun and cute. The opening line is hilarious. (See my Highlights.). I didn't get into the story until they arrived in Bahamas.
I liked Neeley, the female main character. She had been hurt and yet wanted to try something new and do things alone. It was ironic that she met an older woman who she admired for doing that very thing yet she couldn't see it for herself at that point. She had a big growth arc.
I admittedly wanted to bonk Pax over the head with a surfboard for how underhanded he was being. But he also went through a big growth arc so I accepted him in the end.
The setting of Bahamas was really nice and that fulfilled a reading challenge prompt for me to read something with an exotic location.
Sometimes love can catch us unaware and under odd circumstances. The ending was very satisfactory.
Series: Resort to Romance Collection, #2
Format: Kindle e-Book
Challenge Prompt: EOW's, "set in an exotic location" -- DURING OPTION -- set in Bahamas
Book #31 of 2025: This is a small novella. It's fun and cute. The opening line is hilarious. (See my Highlights.). I didn't get into the story until they arrived in Bahamas.
I liked Neeley, the female main character. She had been hurt and yet wanted to try something new and do things alone. It was ironic that she met an older woman who she admired for doing that very thing yet she couldn't see it for herself at that point. She had a big growth arc.
I admittedly wanted to bonk Pax over the head with a surfboard for how underhanded he was being. But he also went through a big growth arc so I accepted him in the end.
The setting of Bahamas was really nice and that fulfilled a reading challenge prompt for me to read something with an exotic location.
Sometimes love can catch us unaware and under odd circumstances. The ending was very satisfactory.
Just a Holiday Hangout by Katie Nelson
3.75
Completed: Mar. 15/25
Series: There's Gotta Be Something More, #3
Format: Kindle E-Book
Challenge Prompt: ARoCF's "features royalty"
Book #30 of 2025: New-to-me author, clean fiction
I'm honestly not much for the royalty trope. However, a person has to read it knowing it won't be remotely believable - lol!
It is a fun story and the chemistry between the couple is certainly tangible. There are some good laughs and interactions. The niece, Brooklyn, is cheekily adorable. Everything is quite rushed due to the novella length so I wish it had another 50 pages or more to flush out the attraction, parental stuff, etc to make it more satisfying. Though I didn't know about there being two novellas before this one until I started to read it, the good friendships came through well. M
While I get the "save the island" issue, I don't know what parents would force their son or daughter into a marriage. They're living in the lap of luxury but the island is in financial straits? Royalty essentially lives off their 'subjects.'
Two thumbs down to the tacky coffee cup phrase. It didn't fit with the story and I personally cannot stand any play on a curse word. It's not funny. It's also disrespectful to the holiness of Christmas.
This story reminded me somewhat of a novel with a created island of the west coast of Africa, except the female is a queen in that book. The title of this novella didn't fit the story for me.
Series: There's Gotta Be Something More, #3
Format: Kindle E-Book
Challenge Prompt: ARoCF's "features royalty"
Book #30 of 2025: New-to-me author, clean fiction
I'm honestly not much for the royalty trope. However, a person has to read it knowing it won't be remotely believable - lol!
It is a fun story and the chemistry between the couple is certainly tangible. There are some good laughs and interactions. The niece, Brooklyn, is cheekily adorable. Everything is quite rushed due to the novella length so I wish it had another 50 pages or more to flush out the attraction, parental stuff, etc to make it more satisfying. Though I didn't know about there being two novellas before this one until I started to read it, the good friendships came through well. M
While I get the "save the island" issue, I don't know what parents would force their son or daughter into a marriage. They're living in the lap of luxury but the island is in financial straits? Royalty essentially lives off their 'subjects.'
Two thumbs down to the tacky coffee cup phrase. It didn't fit with the story and I personally cannot stand any play on a curse word. It's not funny. It's also disrespectful to the holiness of Christmas.
This story reminded me somewhat of a novel with a created island of the west coast of Africa, except the female is a queen in that book. The title of this novella didn't fit the story for me.
Some Like it Scot by Pepper Basham
4.25
Completed: Mar. 12/25
Format: digital advanced reader copy, advanced audio copy, + on launch team
Narrators: Stina Nielsen, Joshua Manning - I like Stina as a narrator but I felt her voice was too 'normal' for Katie, the female main character. It needed more spunk and fun. The Scottish accents were pretty good and added authenticity to the story. I did prefer reading the text though.
Challenge Prompt: ARoCF's "with a fireplace, bonfire, or wood stove on the cover or featured in the story" -- bonfire on the cover
Book #29 of 2025: A Pepper Basham rom-com will always be fun, swoony, and quirky in all of the best ways. Some Like it Scot has so much humour but it also has some very tender and important moments. Healing is another important aspect to this novel. And if you have a fondness for puns, well.... you'll find this extra punny!
I think most, if not all women, can relate to Katie. We all have our self-conscious concerns and we tend to worry about living up to the expectations of others. Katie, also has the biggest heart and a love for people, nature, and beauty. Graeme and her have a rather unusual and gruff start to things but they eventually become friends and sparks start sparking! The clean but potent chemistry and swoon factor will send your inner squeals afire!
Graeme and Katie share a sad commonality. They both lost a sister and they went through rather different grieving experiences; however, it ends up drawing them closer. Graeme's confidence and tenderness become like an antidote to Katie's need to feel she has a home to belong to. Likewise, Graeme's trust and loyalty also needs a soft place to land.
As I said before, there is comic relief in many forms: clumsiness, odd situations, awkwardness, sarcastic moments, the puns, etc. Yet there are equally wonderful and deeper moments that are so touching because they are so relatable.
Be ready for cheeky parrots, suspicious sheep, grumpy Highland cows, and all sorts of hi-jinx. The characters within this book are varied and the community will win you over. ANNNNNNND.... there are kilts. (Cue the bagpipes.)
>>> Huge thanks to the publisher, Thomas Nelson, and to Net Galley for providing me with a digital advance copy of this novel. My review is in my own words.
Format: digital advanced reader copy, advanced audio copy, + on launch team
Narrators: Stina Nielsen, Joshua Manning - I like Stina as a narrator but I felt her voice was too 'normal' for Katie, the female main character. It needed more spunk and fun. The Scottish accents were pretty good and added authenticity to the story. I did prefer reading the text though.
Challenge Prompt: ARoCF's "with a fireplace, bonfire, or wood stove on the cover or featured in the story" -- bonfire on the cover
Book #29 of 2025: A Pepper Basham rom-com will always be fun, swoony, and quirky in all of the best ways. Some Like it Scot has so much humour but it also has some very tender and important moments. Healing is another important aspect to this novel. And if you have a fondness for puns, well.... you'll find this extra punny!
I think most, if not all women, can relate to Katie. We all have our self-conscious concerns and we tend to worry about living up to the expectations of others. Katie, also has the biggest heart and a love for people, nature, and beauty. Graeme and her have a rather unusual and gruff start to things but they eventually become friends and sparks start sparking! The clean but potent chemistry and swoon factor will send your inner squeals afire!
Graeme and Katie share a sad commonality. They both lost a sister and they went through rather different grieving experiences; however, it ends up drawing them closer. Graeme's confidence and tenderness become like an antidote to Katie's need to feel she has a home to belong to. Likewise, Graeme's trust and loyalty also needs a soft place to land.
As I said before, there is comic relief in many forms: clumsiness, odd situations, awkwardness, sarcastic moments, the puns, etc. Yet there are equally wonderful and deeper moments that are so touching because they are so relatable.
Be ready for cheeky parrots, suspicious sheep, grumpy Highland cows, and all sorts of hi-jinx. The characters within this book are varied and the community will win you over. ANNNNNNND.... there are kilts. (Cue the bagpipes.)
>>> Huge thanks to the publisher, Thomas Nelson, and to Net Galley for providing me with a digital advance copy of this novel. My review is in my own words.