My Name is Emily Ray by Michele Dominguez Greene | Review

 

My Name is Emily Ray by Michele Dominguez Greene 

(#1 - Special Agent Emily Ray)
Genre(s): Psychological Thriller
Release Date: May 27th, 2025
Publisher: Storm Publishing
Pages: 259
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 
Spice: No Spice 🚫

Emily Ray isn’t your typical FBI agent. She searches for missing children. When a young girl vanishes from the very neighbourhood where Emily was once taken, the case becomes deeply personal, forcing her to navigate a labyrinth of memories and buried secrets. The plot unfolds as Emily gathers clues to locate the suspect, someone that she knows very well, while the author's carefully placed twists encourage readers to reexamine the evidence and think more deeply about every detail.

This novel was full of unexpected twists that change the entire projection of the novel. I thought I had guessed the ending halfway through the novel but I was totally wrong. I would rate this book a solid 5 stars. It is well-written, engaging, and manages to keep you interested throughout.

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

How To Get Even by Pippa Roscoe | Review

 

How To Get Even by Pippa Roscoe (#2 - Karma Club Series)

Genre(s): Romance

Rating: ⭐⭐⭐ 

Release Date: May 25th, 2025

Publisher: Boldwood Books
Pages: 347
Spice: Steamy 🌶️🌶️

This second novel in the Karma Series continues the story of Paige, Bella, Astrid, and Sienna whose unexpected friendship is forged through shared experiences of heartbreak. In the first novel, “The Payback Plan”, the four women randomly become friends after a chance encounter, bonding over relationship woes and the disaster zone that is their love lives. The women decide that they should get revenge on their exes for the pain and heartbreak the men have caused them.

In this novel, Bella is exacting revenge on Astrid’s ex-boyfriend Chase. Astrid was heartbroken when she found out that Chase was still married while in a relationship with her. I enjoyed the story quite a lot, but I wish Bella and Chase had a little more time to really get to know each other. There was plenty of flirting, but I wanted deeper conversations, more moments where they truly connected beyond their shared past trauma. Their relationship felt more physical than emotional, and because of that, the love story didn’t quite hit me the way I wanted it to. It wasn’t fake, but it felt like they just kind of slid into their feelings rather than actually falling in love. Chase didn’t go out of his way to really win her over, and I think that took away some of the romance for me.

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

The Puck Stops Here by Rachael Stewart (#3 - Karma Club Series)

Genre(s): Romance

Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 

Release Date: June 17th, 2025

Publisher: Boldwood Books
Pages: 386
Spice: Steamy 🌶️🌶️ 

This installment of the Karma series has completely won me over. This novel is easily my favourite so far. The story follows Astrid, who is determined to seek justice for her friend Sienna after Aiden, her ex-boyfriend, shattered her heart. Astrid sets her sights on revenge, ready to give Aiden a taste of his own medicine, but things take an unexpected turn when she meets his twin brother, Blake. Despite being labeled a bad boy, Blake is anything but a bad boy and Astrid can’t help but be drawn to him. As emotions swirl, she realizes her heart has made its choice, and suddenly, her carefully planned scheme feels impossible to carry out.

What truly impresses me about this series is how seamlessly the group of authors weave connections between each book. The authors have collaborated so well together and I am SO impressed. This is my favourite series of the summer. Each novel only gets better and I’m beyond excited to dive into the fourth book!

Thank you to NetGalley and Boldwood Books for this arc copy and the chance to read and review this entire series in exchange for my honest opinion and review.  

Check out my reviews on the other books in the Karma Series:

#1 - The Payback Plan by Amy Andrews

#2 - How to Get Even by Pippa Roscoe 

#3 - The Puck Stops Here by Rachael Stewart

#4 - Settling the Score (available July 24th, 2025) 

Lessons in Heartbreak by Karla Sorenson | Review

 

Lessons in Heartbreak by Karla Sorenson (#1 - The Kings Series)
Genre(s): Romance
Release Date: May 20th, 2025
Publisher: Montlake
Pages: 331
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ 

Spice: Hot 🔥🔥🔥

The dual-narrative centers around Ruby, who was a reserved and well-intentioned child and carries that reserved energy into adulthood. Her reluctance to venture beyond her comfort zone keeps her from truly experiencing all that life—and romance—has to offer. 

A surprising encounter—and a slightly awkward situation—leads Ruby to reconnect with her childhood neighbor, Austin King. Seizing the opportunity, Ruby boldly asks Austin to help her shed her fears and embrace the excitement of building her confidence around men. 

What starts as a mutual agreement rooted in shared childhood memories gradually evolves into a deep, affectionate bond laced with desire. The steam scenes are fire. You can almost feel the heat off these two characters. 

I find a lot of romance novels are too short and lack plot development but this one was nice and long with a lot of meat to the story. Austin and Ruby were able to support one another which depended their connection. This is the first novel in a series about the King brothers and I definitely want to check out the next one.

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

So That Happened by Christy McKellen | Review

So That Happened by Christy McKellen

Genre(s): Romance

Rating: ⭐⭐⭐

Release Date: May 6th, 2025

Publisher: Boldwood Books
Pages: 212
Spice: Steamy 🌶️🌶️ 

Josie is a relentless workaholic, constantly pushing herself to meet impossibly high standards at work and in the eyes of her family. The pressure she places on herself has taken a significant toll on her mental and physical health, leaving little room for joy or rest. Connor, on the other hand, has spent his entire adult life as a loner, carefully avoiding meaningful relationships and keeping others at arm’s length. When their paths cross, everything begins to shift. Connor and Josie had more in common than they realized, yet they were too caught up in their jobs and responsibilities to see it. Their lives were consumed by stress, leaving little room for joy or spontaneity. 

I enjoyed the sexy, sassy romance in this novel! It didn’t shy away from the messy realities of love, making Josie and Connor’s journey feel raw and relatable. Their struggles weren’t just obstacles—they were the very things that made their connection so compelling.

As they spend time together, they begin to tear down the emotional barriers they’ve built, challenging old habits and learning to let each other in. Their relationship forces them to slow down, embrace the present, and reconnect with the parts of themselves they had long neglected. It’s more than just romance—it’s about rediscovering happiness and figuring out what truly matters. 

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

The Love Haters by Katherine Center | Review

The Love Haters by Katherine Center
Genre(s): Romance
Release Date: May 20th, 2025
Publisher: St. Martin’s Press
Pages: 320
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ 
Spice: Sweet 🌶️ 

Katie finds herself worried about losing her job when her company begins a major restructuring. Amid the uncertainty, her supervisor, Cole, assigns her a seemingly straightforward task: interview a local hero known as Hutch. She soon learns that Hutch is actually Cole’s older brother, Tom Hutcheson, which sheds light on Cole’s ongoing struggle to measure up to his brother. Cole has compared himself to Hutch since their parents’ tragic car accident. 

Instead of the larger-than-life figure Cole had painted, Hutch turns out to be refreshingly genuine, handsome, and kind-of perfect. As they spend time together, Katie develops a crush on Hutch, but soon becomes entangled in the complications arising from Cole’s string of lies. 

Throughout the story, Katie’s journey becomes one of self-discovery. As she navigates complex family dynamics and budding feelings for Hutch, she also learns to confront her past and embrace self-love. The romance unfolds with subtle humor and moments of awkward charm that gradually tie the characters together. However, the development of Katie and Hutch’s relationship feels a bit rushed toward the end, leaving a desire for more depth in their romantic journey. 

I really enjoyed this novel. It has personal growth, understated romance, and family drama, making it a satisfying read despite a slightly underdeveloped conclusion to the love story.

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.  

A Good Mother by Michelle Dunne | Review

 

A Good Mother by Michelle Dunne

Genre(s): Thriller

Rating: ⭐⭐⭐

Release Date: April 29th, 2025

Publisher: Storm Publishing
Pages: 338
Spice: No Spice 🚫

This novel was an intense and emotional read. Jen and Lia were once inseparable as teenagers, but their friendship fractured when Jen disapproved of Lia’s boyfriend. Years later, Lia is married to that same man and living next door to Jen, while their daughters, Alex and Willow are now best friends, just like their mom’s once were.

While navigating high school and their friendship, Alex and Willow struggled with finding their identities, social pressures, and bullying. In the midst of this, a tragedy occurs and their lives are changed forever. The families are desperate for answers, attempting to piece together the truth behind all of the secrets and lies.

This book had me on edge the entire time. There was so much happening behind closed doors, secrets lurking in every corner. There was so much tension and suspense the entire novel. felt the anxiety creeping in as I turned each page. An absolutely gripping read!

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

Not Moving Out by Jon Rance | Review

 

Not Moving Out by Jon Rance

Genre(s): Romance

Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 

Release Date: May 15th, 2025

Publisher: Hera
Pages: 310
Spice: Mild 🌶️ 

Freya and Joe’s marriage is hanging by a thread. They are trying to figure out if they should stick it out or go their separate ways, all while keeping things as normal as possible for their daughter, Dolly, until she heads off to university.

What I liked about this book is how real it felt. Instead of an idealized romance, the story explores the ups and downs of a long-term relationship, the way people slowly lose themselves, lose their spark, and the tough choices that come with it. Freya and Joe must weigh the benefits and drawbacks of staying together or going their separate ways. Should they fight for the love they once had and the future they might build, or accept that their time together has run its course?

The back-and-forth struggle felt super relatable, like something a lot of couples go through. There weren’t any standout moments that blew me away, but the story as a whole was enjoyable.

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

My Star-Crossed Summer by Lucy Day | Review

My Star-Crossed Summer by Lucy Day

Genre(s): Romance

Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐

Release Date: February 14th, 2025

Publisher: BooksGoSocial
Pages: 310
Spice: Steamy 🌶️🌶️

Victoria Griffin has mastered the art of running; from relationships, from expectations, from anything that feels too permanent. After calling off her engagement and walking away from her job, she finds herself taking a short term position as a camp counsellor to get back on her feet.

The problem? Vic’s not exactly the outdoorsy type. The bigger problem? She arrives at camp and finds herself face to face with Noah, her former best friend that she kissed then ran away from. She hasn’t seen him since they kissed. 

Vic and Noah’s unresolved past crackles with tension and simmering emotions, making every interaction electric. Watching Vic, clumsy and completely out of her element in the wilderness, stumble her way through nature was hilarious and relatable. But more than that, her journey to overcome her fear of the outdoors mirrors the way she slowly dismantles the emotional walls she built between herself and Noah. Vic has to confront her inner voice that criticizes her decisions. She is afraid of failure or of appearing like a failure. She is too harsh about herself. She needs to be more confident and don’t worry about what other people think about her, especially her mother. 

This is a quick, enjoyable read that wraps summertime adventure and romance into one. With its perfect mix of heartfelt moments and playful energy, it offers a warm escape into a world of love, personal growth, and the great outdoors.

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

The Payback Plan by Amy Andrews | Review

 

The Payback Plan by Amy Andrews (#1 - Karma Club Series)

Genre(s): Romance

Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 

Release Date: April 26th, 2025

Publisher: Boldwood Books
Pages: 317
Spice: Steamy 🌶️🌶️

I really enjoyed this story. The story is all about four women, Paige, Bella, Astrid and Sienna, who randomly become friends after a chance encounter, bonding over relationship woes and the disaster zone that is their love lives. The women decide that they should get revenge on their exes for the pain and heartbreak the men have caused them. 

Paige gets Oliver, Bella’s ex, and the scheme kicks off when Bella manages to convince Oliver to let Paige crash at his place for a visit. Once there, Paige tries her best to irritate Oliver with obnoxious antics including everything from adopting a stray dog, hiding the remote and wearing the world’s cringiest graphic t-shirts with bad puns. However, the more time Paige spends with Oliver, the more she gets to see his true personality and quickly falls for him. 

I loved this story! Paige’s antics were pure gold, and watching Oliver try to keep his sanity was hilarious. I would absolutely recommend this novel. This is part of a series called the “Karma Club” and I will definitely be reading the other ladies’ stories. 

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

The Puck Stops Here by Rachael Stewart (#3 - Karma Club Series)

Genre(s): Romance

Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 

Release Date: June 17th, 2025

Publisher: Boldwood Books
Pages: 386
Spice: Steamy 🌶️🌶️ 

This installment of the Karma series has completely won me over. This novel is easily my favourite so far. The story follows Astrid, who is determined to seek justice for her friend Sienna after Aiden, her ex-boyfriend, shattered her heart. Astrid sets her sights on revenge, ready to give Aiden a taste of his own medicine, but things take an unexpected turn when she meets his twin brother, Blake. Despite being labeled a bad boy, Blake is anything but a bad boy and Astrid can’t help but be drawn to him. As emotions swirl, she realizes her heart has made its choice, and suddenly, her carefully planned scheme feels impossible to carry out.

What truly impresses me about this series is how seamlessly the group of authors weave connections between each book. The authors have collaborated so well together and I am SO impressed. This is my favourite series of the summer. Each novel only gets better and I’m beyond excited to dive into the fourth book!

Thank you to NetGalley and Boldwood Books for this arc copy and the chance to read and review this entire series in exchange for my honest opinion and review.  

Check out my reviews on the other books in the Karma Series:

#1 - The Payback Plan by Amy Andrews

#2 - How to Get Even by Pippa Roscoe 

#3 - The Puck Stops Here by Rachael Stewart

#4 - Settling the Score (available July 24th, 2025) 

All We Lost Was Everything by Sloan Harlow | Review

 

All We Lost Was Everything by Sloan Harlow

Genre(s): Thriller

Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐

Release Date: May 6th, 2025

Publisher:
Pages: 352
Spice: Steamy 🌶️🌶️ 

River Santos’ world has fallen apart. Her mom disappeared months ago, her house burned to the ground, and her dad didn’t make it out. River has no memory of the night someone mysteriously pulled her from the flames. Now, everyone around her seems to be hiding something, and she’s stuck piecing together the truth while navigating betrayal, heartbreak, and the terrifying feeling of not knowing who to trust.

This book is a rollercoaster. It is fast-paced, full of mystery, and dripping with tension. River’s emotions swing wildly, from love to hate to utter confusion, pulling you along for the ride. I had lots of ideas about what was going on but then another twist would come out of nowhere and prove me wrong. The characters feel real, the suspense never lets up, and the story flows effortlessly. If you love a good mystery packed with action, secrets, and emotional chaos, this one is definitely worth diving into.

Thank you to NetGalley and Penguin Young Readers Group for this thrilling Young Adult ARC in exchange for my honest review.

The Tenant by Freida McFadden | Review

 

The Tenant by Freida McFadden

Genre(s): Thriller

Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐

Release Date: May 6th, 2025

Publisher: Poisoned Pen Press
Pages: 368
Spice: No Spice 🚫

I enjoyed several Freida McFadden’s books before, so I was really excited to read this one.

The main character Blake was kind of annoying at first. He’s self-absorbed, constantly chasing validation, and seems to think very highly of himself. At first, his character felt overly stereotypical, but then Blake lost his job. Even with his fiancé Krista helping to cover bills, Blake had no choice but to take whatever work he could find just to cover his mortgage. Things got so rough that he even had to rent out part of his house to a tenant. The moment the new tenant Whitney moves in, Blake starts spiralling, convinced she’s out to deliberately torment him. He becomes completely obsessed with her, trying to figure out if she has some secret vendetta against him and if he somehow deserves it. Blake sets out to dig into her past and figure out what he could’ve possibly done to make her so vengeful.

Overall, it was a quick, easy read with some decent twists. While it wasn’t overly complex or shocking, it kept my attention, and I enjoyed how much Blake’s character evolved by the end. He became more self-aware, which was a nice shift from the overconfident persona he started with. If you’re looking for something fast-paced and entertaining, this one is worth checking out!

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

All We Lost Was Everything by Sloan Harlow | Review

 

All We Lost Was Everything by Sloan Harlow
Genre(s): Mystery

Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐

Release Date: May 6th, 2025

Publisher: Penguin Young Reader’s Group
Pages: 352
Spice: Steamy 🌶️🌶️

River Santos’ world has fallen apart. Her mom disappeared months ago, her house burned to the ground, and her dad didn’t make it out. River has no memory of the night someone mysteriously pulled her from the flames. Now, everyone around her seems to be hiding something, and she’s stuck piecing together the truth while navigating betrayal, heartbreak, and the terrifying feeling of not knowing who to trust.

This book is a rollercoaster. It is fast-paced, full of mystery, and dripping with tension. River’s emotions swing wildly, from love to hate to utter confusion, pulling you along for the ride. I had lots of ideas about what was going on but then another twist would come out of nowhere and prove me wrong. The characters feel real, the suspense never lets up, and the story flows effortlessly. If you love a good mystery packed with action, secrets, and emotional chaos, this one is definitely worth diving into.

Thank you to NetGalley and Penguin Young Readers Group for this thrilling Young Adult Advanced Reader Copy in exchange for my honest review.

Parent’s Weekend by Alex Finlay | Review

Parent’s Weekend by Alex Finlay 
Genre(s): Thriller, Mystery
Release Date: May 6th, 2025
Publisher: Minotaur Books
Pages: 320
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Spice: No Spice 🚫

Parent’s Weekend at College should be a bonding weekend for parents to come see what their kids are up to, meet their friends, and see how messy their dorm rooms are. This year, the excitement quickly turns into a terrifying situation when five students go missing. 

FBI agent Sarah Kellar is brought in to support when one of the missing students is found to be the son of a government official. Using her investigative skills, Kellar makes connections between the missing students and uncovers a complex web of friendship, secrets, and serious accusations. 

The author expertly wove so many twists and turns into this narrative. Every new bit of information created even more questions as the narrative progressed and the story depended. Every time I thought I had it figured out, there was a new twist. The ending was skillfully crafted and brought the story to a satisfying conclusion. I highly recommend this book!

Thank you NetGalley, the author Alex Finlay and St. Martin’s Press for allowing me the chance to read this ARC novel in exchange for my honest opinion.

Michael Without Apology by Catherine Ryan Hyde | Review

 

Michael Without Apology by Catherine Ryan Hyde
Genre(s): Contemporary Fiction
Release Date: May 6th, 2025
Publisher: Lake Union Publishing
Pages: 273
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐
Spice: Steamy 🌶️🌶️

This novel is a powerful story about the beauty of human connection. Michael Woodbine, marked by scars from a devastating accident, has spent his life hiding, burdened by shame. But when he meets a professor who wears his own scars openly, something shifts within him. Through their shared experience, Michael begins to understand that imperfections don’t isolate us; they unite us.

This was a really touching story about embracing the truth of who we are, unapologetically. It reminds us that vulnerability is not a weakness but a bridge and a way for people to see one another fully and deeply. The relationships Michael forms throughout the novel are rich with sincerity, reinforcing the idea of building connection when we allow ourselves to be vulnerable with others.

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.  

Reunited With My Scotsman by Amber Cooper | Review

 

Reunited With My Scotsman by Amber Cooper 

(#3 - The Butler’s Series)

Genre(s): Romance

Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 

Release Date: April 30th, 2025
Publisher: Malted Mouse Press
Pages: 297
Spice: Hot 🔥🔥🔥

I was completely hooked on Amber Cooper’s series from the moment I picked up “Snowed in with a Scotsman”. That book set the stage for everything I love about her storytelling. Amber writes deep romance, with emotional intensity, and characters that feel so real you can’t help but root for them. In fact, “Snowed in with a Scotsman” helped re-inspire my love of reading and was one of the first novels that brought me back to a love of reading! 

So, when I got to Carli and Niall’s story, I was all in. They were high school sweethearts, crazy in love, dreaming of a future together until Niall unexpectedly shattered it all, leaving Carli heartbroken and confused. She moved to Australia with her dad and sister, trying to move on with her life. Years later, she returns to Scotland to honour her mother’s memory. Thanks to her close bond with Niall’s sisters, she finds herself back in his family’s home and face-to-face with the one person she swore she’d never see again.

Niall is an interesting character. He is a tough one; haunted by his past, drowning in guilt that’s not his to carry and afraid to let himself be happy. Even after all these years he realizes that Carli is his light, his happiness, and the only person who truly sees him. Their love is tender, passionate, full of emotion and the chemistry sizzles between them! Their moments together are raw, electric, and beyond sexy. 

If you love heartfelt second-chance romances packed with emotional depth, family ties, and the kind of love that consumes you, this series is a must-read. Amber Cooper has me hooked, and I can’t wait to see what she writes next! 

❤️ Bonus Content ❤️ Amber Cooper created a Spotify music playlist exclusively for readers. Check it out here

Check out my review of “Snowed In With a Scotsman”

Thank you to author Amber Cooper for this ARC novel. It was everything I hoped it would be and so much more.

Breaking the Dark by Lisa Jewell | Review

 

Breaking the Dark by Lisa Jewell
Genre(s): Mystery, Fiction
Release Date: March 25th, 2025
Publisher: Hyperion Avenue
Pages: 384
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐
Spice: Mild 🌶️ 

This sci-fi thriller is packed with hidden agendas and unbelievable secrets. The main character, Jessica Jones, is a woman with extraordinary powers, who has dedicated her life to helping others as part of the Avengers. When a concerned mother named Amber seeks her help, Jessica finds herself drawn into a chilling mystery. Amber’s teenage twins have returned from visiting their father’s new home, but something about the kids feels off. They look and act differently, yet they refuse to reveal what happened.

I enjoyed this story because it was unlike anything I had ever read before. The story showcases how the use of advanced technology, placed in the wrong hands, can be used manipulate the world. It’s a frightening scenario.

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