No Saint by Donna Alam (Series) | Review

 Thank you to NetGalley and Montlake for the opportunity to read this advanced reader copy in exchange for my honest opinion and review.  

No Saint by Donna Alam (My Kind of Hero #2)

Genre(s): Romance
Release Date:  February 25th, 2025
Publisher: Montlake
Pages: 409
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐
Spice: Hot 🔥🔥🔥

Mila and Fin's relationship is filled with tension. Their lifestyles are worlds apart—he's wealthy beyond his dreams, surrounded by admirers and a dedicated staff, while she struggles to make ends meet. She fears becoming just another conquest.

Mila's past heartbreak has her building walls, while Fin tries to break them down. Their connection is electric, filled with witty banter and undeniable chemistry. They can't keep their hands off each other.

At times, the dialogue can be overwhelming, making it hard to follow who's speaking. Nonetheless, the character development is engaging. I was pulled in by their banter: their laughter and frustration, and found myself rooting for them. I particularly wanted Mila to see how wonderful Fin was and how much he cared for her.

This story is perfect for those who enjoy steamy scenes filled with passion, but also appreciate moments of tenderness and love.

Something in the Walls by Daisy Pearce | Review

Something in the Walls by Daisy Pearce
Genre(s): Thriller, Horror
Release Date: February 25th, 2025
Publisher: Minotaur Books
Pages:304
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐ 
Spice: No Spice 🚫

I’ve had this novel on my “to be read” list for a while. I was really looking forward to it but I was just left feeling disappointed in the ending. Most of the novel was really interesting and the author did an excellent job describing the characters and giving detailed descriptions throughout. The ending felt rushed and I would have liked for the author to spend more time connecting the dots with more detail like they did throughout the novel.

Thank you to NetGalley and Minotaur Books for the opportunity to read and review an advanced reader copy of this book.

Best Friends For Never by Teagan Hunter | Review

 Thank you to NetGalley and Montlake Publishing for the opportunity to read this advanced reader copy in exchange for my honest opinion and review.  

Best Friends For Never by Teagan Hunter
Genre(s): Romance
Release Date: February 25th, 2025
Publisher: Montlake 
Pages: 317
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐

Spice: Steamy 🌶️🌶️ 

This novel is a heartwarming love story about second chances and the power of true love. Set in a small town in Washington, it follows Noah Carter and Parker Pruitt, childhood best friends who drift apart when Noah moves to LA to pursue his acting dreams after high school.
Ten years later, Noah returns as a successful actor for the naming of a new theatre in his honour. Their reunion is strained and filled with heartache and broken promises as they navigate the uncertainty of their past and future. As they spend time together, they realize they never stopped loving each other. The chemistry between Noah and Parker is undeniable. Their love story is endearing with their quirky inside jokes and deep connection. 

I found myself cheering for these two characters as they navigated their feelings and embraced the possibility of a future together. The novel also features some steamy scenes that add to the intensity of their romance. I wish the author had provided clearer physical descriptions of the characters at the beginning of the novel. By the time hair color and other details were mentioned later in the story, they didn't match what I had imagined, which was a bit confusing.

Overall, I enjoyed reading this story. It made me feel warm and giddy, and it will make you believe in the magic of love and second chances. I recommend reading this novel for those who enjoy a heartfelt romance. I’d also love to see a series featuring some of the other side characters!

All My Lies by Nelle Lamarr | Review

 Thank you to Author Nelle Lamarr and Inkubator Books for the opportunity to read this advanced reader copy in exchange for my honest opinion and review.  

All My Lies by Nelle Lamarr
Genre(s): Psychological Thriller
Release Date: February 20th, 2025
Publisher: Inkubator Books
Pages: 390
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Spice: Medium 🌶️🌶️ 

The main character Sloan Whitman aspires to become. Writer. After finishing school, she lands a job as a personal assistant to bestselling author Barbara Van Wyck. While it should be her dream job and a chance to improve her writing skills learning from one of the best, it turns out to be more like a nightmare. Barbara is dismissive, condescending, and treats Sloan poorly. 

When Barbara is found dead in her house, Sloan can’t help but feel a sense of relief. Impulsively, Sloan decides to steal Barbara’s unfinished manuscript and plans to release it as her own novel. However, her plan quickly falls apart when she realizes that someone knows exactly what she did and wants to make her pay. 

This novel is a suspenseful page-turner. I absolutely loved reading this ebook. Even when I thought I had figured out one major plot twist, the author, Nelle Lamarr, managed to surprise me with unexpected turns and kept me guessing right up until the end. The ending was an exciting, chaotic, and deranged mess and I loved it!

Man Of The Month Club: February by Ann Omasta | Review

Man Of The Month Club: February by Ann Omasta 

(Man Of The Month Club #2)
Genre(s): Romance
Release Date: March 1st, 2023
Publisher: More Happily Ever Afters
Pages: 92
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐ 
Spice: Hot 🔥🔥🔥

This novella is a dizzying whirlwind of emotions and steamy scenes! I have no idea how the author fit so many steamy scenes into such a short narrative.l but they just seem to flow nicely. The story is told from two perspectives: Michelle “Chelle” and Aiden. 

Their love story begins with an unexpected encounter in the most unusual of places which unfortunately leaves them open for the opportunity for scandal and Forces them to pretend they're dating to save their careers. 

Seizing the opportunity, Aiden plans to take Chelle on a date to prove that he is not the same boring guy his public persona may suggest. With his charm and confidence, Aiden quickly swept her off her feet and into bed.

This novella is a quick fast paced gem. I think I read it in 20 minutes!

To Save My Daughters by Louise Guy | Review

 Thank you to NetGalley and Boldwood Books for the opportunity to read this advanced reader copy in exchange for my honest opinion and review.  

To Save My Daughters by Louise Guy
Genre(s): Fiction
Release Date: February 21st, 2025
Publisher: Boldwood Books
Pages: 369
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 
Spice: No Spice 🚫

Holy cow. This is an incredible story. It gave me the chills. I cannot say enough good things about it. This is an incredibly raw and powerful story about a mother’s unwavering love for her children and her ultimate sacrifice to protect them. It highlights the emotional turmoil experienced by those in abusive relationships and emphasizes the importance of seeking support and resources. 

After enduring years of abuse, June Marlow kills her husband in self-defense, though she lacks the evidence to back up her claim. Fast forward twenty years later, to June’s impending release date. Luella and Nicole, June’s daughters, are forced to confront their own confusion and unease surrounding the night their father was as murdered and the lasting impact his death and their mother’s imprisonment has had on their lives afterwards. 

Lu is an artist, and expresses her grief and pain through art. As a trauma therapist, Nicole helps others navigate their own trauma but struggles to confront her own. Cole can’t remember that night and harbours resentment for her mom, believing that she destroyed their family. During her work, Cole encounters a little girl who has experienced a similar situation. As Nicole helps the little girl, she also learns how to cope with her own experience. 

I really loved the ending. It is really heartfelt and focuses on the strength and resilience of the family and the coming together to heal and rebuild after a life-altering traumatic event.

Starting Over in Starshine Cove by Debbie Johnson | Review

 Thank you to NetGalley and Storm Publishing for the opportunity to read this advanced reader copy in exchange for my honest opinion and review.  

Starting Over in Starshine Cove by Debbie Johnson (Starshine Cove Book #4)
Genre(s): Romance
Release Date: February 19th, 2025
Publisher: Storm Publishing
Pages: 234
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 
Spice: Sweet 🌶️ 

This was a refreshing change to the typical romance novels that I have been reading lately. The story is about Connie and Zack, who reunite later in life after their daughters become roommates at University. After losing their spouses, both Connie and Zack are reluctant to let down their barriers and love again, but a medical crisis convinces them to take a chance on one another. 

It was a slow start to the novel, but once it picked up it was a really endearing story. It’s a soft, cozy love story, perfect for anyone who just wants to curl up and enjoy a light read. 

Every Precious and Fragile Thing by Barbara Davis | Review

Thank you to NetGalley and Lake Union Publishing for the opportunity to read this advanced reader copy in exchange for my honest opinion and review.  

Every Precious and Fragile Thing by Barbara Davis
Genre(s): Fiction
Release Date: February 18th, 2025
Publisher: Lake Union Publishing 
Pages: 431
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 
Spice: Sweet 🌶️ 

This story really grew on me as I read. There are so many dynamic plot lines to this story! Truthfully, I didn’t love the beginning of the book. The prologue opens with a very confusing and vague scene between two people. I had no idea what was going on I had to go back and read it over again once I was done reading the rest of the story. However, the vagueness was intended and the author did a great job connecting all the moving pieces in the end. 

The story revolves around a woman named Mallory who has (not) been dealing with some major events in her life. For ten years, Mallory has been guarded and pushing everyone in her life away, including her mom and ex-fiancé, Aiden. Eventually, Mallory has to face her past and those who mean the most to her. Mallory and her mom might actually be more similar than they realize. Mallory has changed, but she might not be so different from the young woman who fell in love with the next door neighbour. And that neighbour boy… he might still be feeling the love there too. 

I was rooting for Mallory and Aiden’s love story. They were both guarded and angry at the world. They needed each other but couldn’t let their guard down until they were forced to confront their fears and their past because time was running out. 

What Happens in Paradise by Olivia Spring | Review

 

What Happens in Paradise by Olivia Spring (Love Hotel #2)
Genre(s): Romance
Release Date: February 14th, 2025
Publisher: Boldwood Books
Pages: 315
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 
Spice: Hot 🔥🔥🔥

I loved this age-gap romance! The story is told from the alternating perspectives of Alejandro and Jasmine, both employees at a hotel chain that specializes in creating romantic experiences for its guests. Jasmine, in guest relations, coordinates romantic excursions, ensuring guests have the best experience, while Alejandro is a chef in the hotel's restaurant. Alejandro is kind, ambitious, and has a sexy accent. Jasmine, who hasn't dated since her divorce, finds everything she wants in a man in the handsome Alejandro.

However, there's a twist—Jasmine is Alejandro's boss, and office romances are strictly forbidden. Jasmine tries to resist the fiery passion she feels for Alejandro, but his charm and sincerity make it impossible. Despite his desire to give her everything she's ever wanted, Jasmine is afraid they'll lose everything they've worked for in their careers.

Jasmine and Alejandro's romance is both sensual and sweet. Jasmine, initially reluctant to let love in, is shown by Alejandro that he's looking for more than just a quick fling. 

I absolutely loved that the main characters are people of colour, which added a rich layer of authenticity and depth to the story. Alejandro was born in Spain, and Jasmine's family is from Jamaica, bringing unique cultural backgrounds that enhanced the narrative. The settings in Spain and Jamaica added to the romantic allure, making the story even more captivating. I love Caribbean culture, and the references to Jamaican food, dance, and music were really interesting. I plan to check out the songs mentioned in the book. These elements brought the story to life and made it a truly engaging read. 

Definitely check this one out! It’s spicy and sweet all in one.

Thank you to NetGalley and Boldwood Books for the opportunity to read this advanced reader copy in exchange for my honest opinion and review.  

Sirens by Emilia Hart | Review

 Thank you to NetGalley and St. Martin’s Press for the opportunity to read this advanced reader copy in exchange for my honest opinion and review.  

Sirens by Emilia Hart
Genre(s): Historical Fiction
Release Date: February 13th, 2025
Publisher: St. Martin’s Press
Pages: 352
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ 
Spice: No Spice 🚫

This captivating novel intertwines the lives of two pairs of sisters—one set from the 1800s and one from the modern day—in a time-traveling narrative rich with fantasy elements and siren folklore.

Lucy, after escaping a harrowing domestic situation, unexpectedly arrives at her sister Jess's house, only to find it in shambles and Jess missing. Prior to arriving, Lucy was experiencing vivid dreams that seem to grow more intense at Jess's house, leaving her confused and desperate for answers. Then Lucy finds a beautiful, haunting painting hanging in Jess’s house and it’s the woman from her dreams. Lucy needs to find her sister and figure out who this woman is.

In the 1800s, sisters Mary and Eliza are abruptly torn from their cozy life with their father and thrown onto a convict ship. They are scared and face mistreatment and starvation as they endure the darkness below deck, awaiting their grim fate. Yet through their ordeal, their bond deepens, and they become each other's unconditional support.

As Lucy unravels the mystery behind her dreams, she discovers profound truths about herself, her sister, and their deep connection to the past.

This novel was a slow burn with detailed storytelling and vivid imagery. It was a little too long for me but the story was well written; a haunting mystery exploring the bonds of women and motherhood.

Not Our Daughter by Chad Zunker | Review

Thank you to NetGalley and Thomas and Mercer for the opportunity to read this advanced reader copy in exchange for my honest opinion and review.  

Not Our Daughter by Chad Zunker
Genre(s): Thriller
Release Date: February 11th, 2025
Publisher: Thomas and Mercer
Pages: 236
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 
Spice: No Spice 🚫

Buckle up! Greg and Amy Olsen are on the run with the infant they fostered. Who killed her mom? Was it Greg or Amy, or someone even more dangerous? A decade later they are still running and now the Feds know where they are. I felt for the family and especially their daughter as she learns the truth (or lies) about Greg and Amy, the only people she’s ever known as her parents. 

It was an easy read that I enjoyed from start to finish. I definitely recommend this for someone who’s looking for a faced paced thriller.

The Family Inside by Katie Garner | Review

 Thank you to NetGalley and Harlequin Trade Publishing for the opportunity to read this advanced reader copy in exchange for my honest opinion and review.  

The Family Inside by Katie Garner
Genre(s): Thriller
Release Date: 
Publisher: Harlequin Trade Publishing
Pages: 384
Rating: ⭐⭐
Spice: No Spice 🚫

I struggled with this novel initially due to its unrealistic elements and major red flags that the characters just seemed to ignore. The story centers around Iris, who, after the tragic loss of her husband, she meets Hugo, a charming stranger at her best friend's coffee house, and their connection grows quickly. Within a couple of months, Iris, facing tough times, decides to move in with Hugo, accompanied by her teenage daughter.

As the story unfolds, Iris soon discovers that Hugo has been keeping secrets. Iris finds out that Hugo has an entire family living with him, including his adult siblings and elderly mother.

The book was interesting, although it isn’t one of my favourites. The novel improves toward the end, with several plot twists that shed light on Iris's behaviour and provide a deeper understanding of her character.

The Girls Of The Glimmer Factory by Jennifer Coburn | Review

 Thank you to NetGalley and Sourcebooks Landmark for the opportunity to read this advanced reader copy in exchange for my honest opinion and review.  

The Girls Of The Glimmer Factory by Jennifer Coburn
Genre(s): Historical Fiction
Release Date: January 28th, 2025
Publisher: Sourcebooks Landmark
Pages: 480
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 
Spice: No Spice 🚫

This story presents the contrasting viewpoints of two German women living through World War Two and the Holocaust.

Twenty-year-old Hilde Kramer, naive and desperate after her husband's death, strives to serve the Reich. She believes Germany is winning the war and that a bright future awaits.

Hannah, a young Jewish girl in Prague, faces a harsh reality. Her family secures travel papers to Palestine, but when Hannah gets sick, her grandmother takes her place. Later, Hannah and her grandfather find themselves prisoners in a labour camp. The emotional burden and constant fear take a toll on Hannah, who tries to convince herself the war will soon end. Her maturity develops as she confronts the brutal truth.

The story is emotionally heavy, exposing the horrors endured by Jewish people and many others during the Holocaust. The initial naivity of the characters is frustrating as they don’t understand the depth of the severity of the situation. I was impressed by the author’s writing. The story reflects the immense amount of time and effort invested into thorough research and writing vivid historical details. 

I recommend this book to anyone who might be interested in the events surrounding World War Two, as it offers an emotionally-charged fictional perspective through the eyes of young women. 

January's Bad Boy - Shane By Kaci Rose (series) | Review

 Thank you to BookSprout and author Kaci Rose for the opportunity to read this advanced reader copy in exchange for my honest opinion and review.  

January’s Bad Boy: Shane by Kaci Rose 

(Bad Boys of Mustang Mountain #1)
Genre(s): Romance 
Release Date: January 29th, 2025
Publisher: 5 Little Roses
Pages: 80 
Rating: ⭐⭐ 
Spice: Steamy 🌶️🌶️

While this story had the potential to be a heartfelt and genuine romance, it unfortunately missed the mark. I've enjoyed the author's previous works, which made it all the more disappointing. 

Shane, the main character, returns to his hometown and develops feelings for his best friend's sister, Caitlin. However, the story quickly escalates as Shane starts visiting her at her workplace, and then suddenly professes his love and lifelong commitment to her.

Instead of allowing readers to experience the gradual deepening of their relationship, the story fast-forwards through key events, leaving their engagement feeling abrupt and unearned. There was so much potential for genuine interaction and detailed exploration of Shane and Caitlin’s characters and relationship dynamics, but it just didn’t happen. This resulted in a superficial and unsatisfying love story that just felt rushed, and missed out on the depth and substance it could have had. Overall, the story was a letdown and could have been so much more.

Check out these reviews for Kaci Rose books:

Take Me To The Valley ⭐⭐⭐  Steamy 🌶️🌶️

Saving Noah  ⭐⭐⭐⭐ Steamy 🌶️🌶️