The French Kitchen.

 

 

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

 Thank you to publisher,Thomas Nelson Fiction for  E ARC via Netgalley, in exchange for an honest review. 

Paris, 1952 -- An ex-pat wife living in Paris signs up for a cookery class taught by an American chef with an indomitable wit and decidedly French airs--an instructor by name of Julia Child. Amongst classes of the L'Ecole des Trois Gourmandes, with pots and pans and prim Paris wives learning to sauté in the French way, Kat Fontaine learns much more than she bargained for. 

Still haunted by the years she spent serving in the American Office of Strategic Services (OSS) during WWII, Kat soon finds a simple cookery class unearths the tangle of gut-wrenching memories of war and questions about the high-ranking society husband whose past is as murky as her own. But when the puzzle pieces start to come together--and her carefully crafted Paris world begins to fall apart--Kat must confront her own secrets against the mounting suspicions of the husband she thought she knew . . . 

Rue, 1943 -- Deep in the heart of Nazi-controlled northern France, Manon Altier shifts between working for the enemy by day--as a French chef at the famous Château du Broutel, where names like Himmler, Rommel, and Goebbels frequent the guest list--and running with underground networks against the Vichy regime at night. Working undercover to filter information to agents within the burgeoning OSS, Manon digs deep into the glitz and glamour of a Nazi stronghold that has her teetering on the edge of being discovered at any turn. But when an intriguing stranger appears at the chateau claiming to work with the French Resistance, Manon must lean on her instincts to judge whether to run and hide or stand firm--even as a terrifying discovery tests her resolve to continue the fight.

 🌷

 
I love historical fiction, especially the ones that are different and unique. I have been reading historical fiction for years and have read a few different versions and takes on WWII. What I loved about The French Kitchen was that it differed from any other historical fiction I have read. This book's level of detail was outstanding; as a reader, it makes everything easier for me to visualize. As I read, I could see it so clearly; like a movie playing in my mind. That was my favorite part of the book. The story started out interesting, but halfway through, it seemed to shift to a slower pace for me, only to pick up again after a few chapters. Also, the shift between the different timelines was slightly confusing for me at the beginning. But as I continued reading the story, I understood why she structured it that way. 

Of all the characters in the book, Kat was my favorite. I admired her courage, resilience, and how she never gave up looking for her brother. Although I enjoyed reading from Manon’s perspective, I always looked forward to reading Kat’s story. Although sometimes I was afraid of how Kat’s story might end. I liked the way that Cambron had a way where all the characters stood out, even the main characters. Even though I cannot begin to imagine what they had to endure, reading this book, I felt as if I did. It was as if I was stepping into their shoes. I still cannot get these characters out of my mind. Incredible. 

I heard of Julia Child, but I knew her as a chef. I had no idea about her backstory, which was fascinating. I even found myself researching after I finished the book. What I loved about the book is the powerful friendships and relationships between the characters. I could go on about this book, but I don’t want to give the story away; you must read it to find out for yourself. This is my 2nd book by Kristy Cambron and so far, my favorite. I cannot wait to check out the others.

Cuckoo In The Nest.

 

 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

 Thank you to the publisher,Boldwood Books for E-ARC via Netgalley, in exchange for an honest review.

 

I've moved into a shared house. My three new housemates aren't just reserved, there's a distinct chill in the air, an unspoken tension that makes me uneasy. 

I'm not here to make friends, though. 

I have my own secrets. 

Nikki is like a sister to me and I'm here to find out what happened to her. 

Where is she? 

I'm convinced someone knows more than they're letting on. Is she simply missing? Or has something far more sinister occurred within these walls? 

I'm not leaving until I find out if Nikki is alive or dead. 

 

 🌷

 
What a wild ride! When I came across Cuckoo In The Nest, I wasn’t sure what to expect, especially since Diane Saxon is a new author to me. The title and cover caught my attention; it looked exactly like the type of thriller I enjoy reading. Just look at that cover! You can’t help but be intrigued by the story. The story did not disappoint me; it was just the type of thriller I enjoy, the one that keeps you on the edge of your seat and guessing. Almost every page had me wondering what would happen next, if Alex found out what happened to Nikki. From the start, you can’t help but wonder who was responsible for Nikki’s disappearance. 

The dual timeline worked well for this story; you see what happens through Nikki and Alex’s eyes. Throughout the story, I had a bad feeling that one of the housemates was responsible for what happened to Nikki. Like Alex, I tried to put all the clues together, based on those messages that Nikki sent to Alex. Part of me was afraid to see what Alex would discover. I liked the way that the author kept you on edge of your seat until almost the end of the book. I did feel that the book's first part was slower than the book's second half. However, once the story picked up, I kept turning the pages because I was having difficulty finding a stopping point. 

Suspense was one of the best parts of this story. I enjoyed that not only the main characters stood out, but also the minor characters. I could keep going on what else I liked about this story, but I don’t want to give too much of the story away. I am glad I got the chance to read this book, and I cannot wait to check out the rest of Diane Saxon’s work. Highly recommended for any thriller fans.

Dream Girl Drama(Big Shots,#3)

 

 

 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

 4.5★  

 

When professional hockey player Sig Gauthier’s car breaks down and his phone dies, he treks into a posh private country club to call a tow truck, where he encounters the alluring Chloe Clifford, the manic pixie dream girl who captivates him immediately with her sense of adventure and penchant for stealing champagne. 

Sparks fly during a moonlight kiss and the enamored pair can’t wait to see each other again, but when Sig finally arrives to meet his dad’s new girlfriend over dinner, Chloe is confusingly also there. Turns out the girlfriend is Chloe’s mother. Oh, and they’re engaged. 

Sig’s dream girl is his future stepsister. 

Though the pair is now wary of being involved romantically, Chloe, a sheltered harp prodigy, yearns to escape her controlling mother. Sig promises to teach her the ins and outs of independence in Boston—but not inside his bedroom. They both know there can never be more than friendship between a famous hockey player and his high-society, soon-to-be stepsister. But keeping their relationship platonic grows harder amid the developing family drama, especially knowing they were meant for so much more…

 

 🌷

 
It’s official. Tessa Bailey has become one of my favorite romance authors. Dream Girl Drama had so many things that I love about romance, but I liked the fact that this story had so much more than romance. I loved how Sig convinced her to follow her dream and become more independent. However, part of me wondered if he did it because he wanted Chloe to be closer to him. It didn’t take me long to see how much Sig cared about Chloe. I have been curious about Chloe and Sig since they were introduced in the 2nd book. I was curious about how they met and what had happened since then. I was excited to read their story, and I knew from the first page that it was going to be a story that I would have a hard time putting down. 

Most of the book captivated me to the moment where I only put it down when I had to. I liked Sig and how he cared for Chloe; however, I did feel that he was too possessive, which was one of the qualities I didn’t like about him. It just didn’t feel right to me. I couldn't help but wonder what would happen between them, given that their parents were getting married. Their attraction was obvious from the instant they met. Despite their complex relationship, I found myself cheering for them to find a way to be together. Based on how she acted at the beginning of the book, I thought I would have a hard time liking Chloe. Out of all characters, Chloe is the one who took me by surprise with her transformation and ended up becoming one of my favorite characters. That is what I love about this book, most of the characters stand out, including the minor characters. 

Wells and Josephine were my favorite couple from this series; Chloe and Sig are now my second favorite. There was something about the two of them; just the way they were with each other, I knew they belonged with each other. Even though there were times that I got annoyed with Sig, I could see his reasons behind it. Big Shots has definitely become one of my favorite sports romance series, and I am excited to read Robbie and Skylar’s story in Pitcher Perfect.

Key To The Island House.

 

 

 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

4.5★

Thank you to publisher,Bookoture for  E ARC via Netgalley, in exchange for an honest review. 

 

 

 RELEASE DATE: SEPTEMBER 25,2025 

 

 

Egypt, 1942. After her husband and baby son are killed, Nadia flees to Villa Eden in Cairo. The gorgeous scents of the blooms and calming water garden soothe her aching heart… and give her the strength to keep fighting. 

With a group of other young Europeans at the villa, she works undercover against the Nazi threat to Egypt. Friendships form as they host extravagant parties for ambassadors and generals – and gather vital information whispered in quiet corners. 

Until betrayal snatches yet another person she loves from Nadia. And the villa’s high walls may be the only place to keep a dark wartime secret safe… 

Cairo, present day. After the death of her fiancé, Sophie arrives in Egypt, clutching an old photograph of her aunt. Sophie always loved her stories, but all Aunt Nadia would say about the villa was that she could never return. 

Sophie hopes that solving the mysteries of her aunt’s past will help her deal with all the loss in her life. But when she finds a note in her aunt’s handwriting, tucked in the villa’s library, it seems Nadia has lied to her for her whole life…
Sophie is left questioning everything. Will the truth from the war tear her apart, just as it did her aunt? Or will facing these secrets help heal not just her own heartbreak, but also one from decades ago?

 

 🌷

 

 
What a heartbreaking, yet astonishing story. 

I feel like I shouldn’t be surprised by this author by now. The Key To The Island House is my third book by Amanda Lees , and yet again I found myself on the edge of my seat while reading this story. As a reader, it doesn’t take long to get captivated by the story and fall in love with the characters; each is unique in many ways. I love how Lees pulls you into each of the characters' stories, visualizing and feeling everything that the characters are. I still cannot get Sophie and Nadia's story out of my mind. Such astonishing women. 

This is one of the things that I adore about Women’s Fiction. I liked how Lees interweaves the two timelines, and this was one of those times when I didn’t have a preferred timeline. I loved both Sophie’s and Nadia’s perspectives, both of which had so much going on. I felt that Nadia’s timeline had a slower start than Sophie’s, but it didn’t take me long to reach the point when I kept turning the pages because I was so engrossed in the story. loved that it took place in Egypt, which is not a setting you see often in books. All the descriptions made me picture myself in Egypt with both Sophie and Nadia. 

Character development was phenomenal, especially for Sophie. In my opinion, she has changed in so many ways since the beginning of the book. Of course, I loved that it was a historical mystery that keeps you on the edge of your seat even more, making you wonder and anxious to see what will happen next. I’m officially one of the biggest Amanda Lees fans and cannot wait to read her other works. Highly recommended for historical fiction and mystery fans.

The Lost Story Of Eva Fuentes.

 

 

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

 Thank you to publisher,Berkley for providing me with E-ARC via  Netgalley, in exchange for an honest review.

 

 RELEASE DATE: SEPTEMBER 30,2025.

London, 2024: When American expat Margo Reynolds is hired to source a book that’s more than one hundred and twenty years old, she thinks her greatest challenge is going to be that there’s only one copy in existence. However, it quickly becomes clear that her client isn’t the only person determined to procure the book at any cost. Thrust into a deadly quest, Margo teams up with an unlikely ally—the man she loved and lost—and is forced to confront the ghosts of her own past as the lingering feelings that simmer between them ignite. 

Havana, 1966: Pilar Castillo’s days are spent working as a librarian in Havana, her nights spent hoping for her husband’s freedom after his unjust imprisonment. But Pilar has a secret that could jeopardize her life. She’s fighting Fidel’s regime in her own way, and when she comes into possession of a book that was published more than sixty years earlier, she must decide how much she’s willing to risk to protect the literary works entrusted to her care. 

Boston, 1900: For Cuban teacher Eva Fuentes, traveling from Havana to Harvard to participate in the largest cultural exchange between Cuba and the United States is not only a chance to represent her country at a critical time in its bid for independence, but also an opportunity to work on the book she’s writing. When a moonlit encounter with an enigmatic stranger alters the course of Eva’s summer at Harvard, and as secrets, lies, and forbidden love rise to the surface, Eva’s life—and legacy—is irrevocably changed. 

 

 🌷

 
Chanel Cleeton did it again! I cannot get this story out of my mind; it is heartwarming yet heartbreaking. I know that I shouldn’t be surprised since I have been reading the author since 2020, and I loved every single one of her books that I have read. The Lost Story Of Eva Fuentes is one of those stories that you find yourself captivated by the plot and connecting with all the characters from the first page. Every page had something happening, and as the story progressed, it got harder for me to put the book down, and on a few occasions, I stayed up later than I should have. 

I enjoyed reading from three different timelines. I liked the way that the author connected the three timelines in one book. Every timeline had me on the edge of my seat, eager to see what would happen with Pilar, Eva, and Margo next. Although I loved all the timelines and characters, I did feel that Margo’s had the most suspense; whenever I was reading from her timeline, I was glued to the pages and kept turning the pages because I was anxious to see how it would end. Each character holds a special place in my heart. I cannot seem to get them out of my mind. Although I loved all the books I read by Cleeton, this has become my favorite one. 

I loved the different settings in this book, and Cleeton described it so vividly that I could imagine myself there, along with Eva, Pilar and Margo. The combination of mystery and historical fiction worked brilliantly. I could say a lot more about what I liked about this story, but I don't want to spoil anything before the release. You will have to pick up the book to find out. I would recommend this book to all history fiction and mystery fans. A must read for book lovers.

Wrong Kind Of Perfect.

 

 

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

4.5★

Thank you to the Love Story PR and author,Jillian Marie For E ARC in exchange for an honest review.

 

 

 RELEASE DATE: SEPTEMBER 16,2025

 

 

What if the life you built… wasn’t the one meant for you?

 
Natalie Bradford should be happy. 

She has everything she ever dreamed of — a loving husband, two wonderful children, and a beautiful life in sunny Orange County. But behind the curated smiles and perfectly packed school lunches lies a woman slowly unraveling. Her marriage is more routine than romance. Her days blur together. And somewhere along the way, Natalie lost sight of who she really is. 

Then comes Will Parker. 

He’s everything she’s not supposed to want — gorgeous, magnetic, and completely off-limits. But their connection is undeniable. A chance encounter becomes something deeper, more dangerous. As the tension builds, so does Natalie’s craving for something real… something that reminds her she’s still alive. 

Torn between loyalty and longing, Natalie must
Is she willing to risk everything for the wrong kind of perfect?

 

 🌷

 
I love reading debut novels. Even though you never know what to expect from them, seeing what you will discover is exciting. When I came across Wrong Kind Of Perfect on Instagram, the title alone hooked me, followed by the cover. I couldn’t help but be curious about the story. It was such heartwarming story, but the one that dealt with real life issues. I liked how the author described everything and portrayed the characters’ emotions. I could see it and feel it all, like a movie. Just when I thought that I came across a part where I could put the book down, I found myself turning the pages more because I felt so captivated by the characters that I wanted to see what would happen with them next. 

The first few chapters started slowly for me, but once the story picked up, I couldn’t get enough of it and the characters. I loved Natalie, Will, the most, but I also adored Natalie’s sister and the kids. Natalie’s sister reminded me of my best friend, who is like a sister but who would do anything for me. I’m glad that Natalie had that type of bond with her sister. Of all the characters, Natalie was the one that I could relate to the most. I preferred reading from her perspective the most. 

I liked how Will and Natalie’s relationship developed through the book. Even though I knew I probably shouldn’t have, I rooted for the two of them from the beginning. No matter how hard I tried, the one character I couldn’t seem to relate to was Natalie’s husband, Jason. He just fell flat for me. The ending was the most surprising; it was far from what I had expected, and I am still unsure how I feel about it. Wrong Kind Of Perfect is more than a love story; it’s also about self-discovery. Congratulations to Jillian Marie on her book! I’m excited about what she has in store for us next.

Second Time's Sweeter.

 

 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

 Thank you to the publisher, Attic and author,Melissa Mastro For E ARC in exchange for an honest review.

 

A recipe contest brings two finalists to a chocolate factory in Belgium where they face off—and find love—in this heartwarming and hopeful story about second chances.

 
Ophelia Watson is having a hard time, so when she sees a news article about a recipe competition that offers a grand prize of $25,000 and a trip to Europe, she immediately jumps at the opportunity.
Tate Ripley is struggling, too, and with a nudge from his best friend, he begrudgingly submits a recipe to an annual competition in honor of International Chocolate Day. He isn’t expecting much; it’s just a silly recipe contest, after all. But, to his surprise, it becomes so much more. 

Ophelia and Tate meet in Brussels, Belgium, to see who will be crowned champion. Only one can take home the grand prize, but they might both leave winners. 

Chocolate may not be the answer to all of life’s problems, but it can definitely make things sweeter, and sometimes, it can even be the catalyst for a second chance at love.

 🌷

 
This was such a sweet story! I adored it in so many ways. I had always loved short stories. Even though they are brief, they can still capture your heart. That’s the feeling I got while reading Second Time’s Sweeter, and I connected with both Ophelia and Tate, but mostly Ophelia. I liked how Melissa portrayed those characters' emotions; it was so vivid that I felt those same emotions. The only issue with short stories is that once you reach the end, you find yourself craving more, and that’s the same feeling I got from this story. I wanted to know what would happen to Tate and Ophelia after. 

I loved it because it was a cooking competition, I love those and have seen quite a few of them over the years. I liked it because it was a different cooking competition. I felt for Ophelia, and I could relate to her because when I was 16, someone close to me went through precisely the same thing that Ophelia was going through. I already know that I'm going to read anything Melissa Mastro writes. I am excited to see what she has for us next!

Worst Nanny Ever(Babes Of Brewing,#2)

 

 

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Thank you to the Author Agency and author,Angela Casella For E ARC in exchange for an honest review.

 

 RELEASE DATE: SEPTEMBER 12,2025

She's horribly unqualified...and everything they both need.

 
Travis

 
The last time I saw my ex-fling, she was toasting her engagement to a record producer. So when I heard she'd had a baby, I assumed he was the father...until she showed up at my house seven years later with a little boy and said, "Your turn." 

I’m a drummer who works afternoons and nights. My life is loud, chaotic, and definitely not kid-friendly. But I was raised by a nanny, and I see no harm in finding one for my son. 

Too bad he rejects every single person I hire. 

The only person he actually likes? 

Not a nanny. She's a friend of a friend and the former floor manager at a brewery. But she has just enough childcare experience that I offer her the job out of desperation...and instantly regret it.
Hannah is a bossy, opinionated hurricane of a woman who tests my patience, my sanity, and my number one don't fall for the nanny.

 
Hannah

 
Let the record show, I am not a professional nanny. I did, however, help raise my little brother, so I know my way around a juice box and a tantrum. Which is more than Travis can say. 

My new boss is uptight, repressed, and needs more help than he realizes, especially since single parenthood isn't the only challenge he's facing. His band is about to become more than just a hobby, and the past he doesn't want to acknowledge is pushing its way into the present. 

I was determined to pop in, whip things into shape, and leave, but the more I get to know them, the more I want to stay...

 

 🌷

 
Have you ever encountered a book in which, after a few pages, you knew that you would love the story? That’s the feeling I got about Worst Nanny Ever after reading the first chapter. Maybe it was the way it was written or the emotions I got through the characters; I found myself in their shoes, feeling and doing everything they were. It took everything in my power to put this book down. If it weren’t for college, I would have read it until I finished it. I was captivated by the story and the characters; even a few of the minor characters stood out for me, as did the setting. 

I loved most of the characters in the story, but my favorites were Hannah, Travis, and Ollie. I liked how the author developed the relationship between Travis, Hannan, and Ollie; it felt real. I haven’t read the first book in the series because I didn’t realize there was one until this one started. However, I didn’t feel lost at all, and now that I have read Worst Nanny Ever, I plan to go back and read the first one. Plus, I’m curious about Rob and Sophie’s story. I loved how caring Hannah was, not just with Ollie but Travis and her friends. She reminded me of a few of my friends, the type of person you want on your side. 

I enjoyed the humor in this story, especially the banter between Travis and Hannah. I adored the way all the friends were there for one another. I could go on about what else I liked about the story, but I don’t want to give too much away; you have to read to find out. I’m already excited for Briar’s book. Highly recommended.

A Love Like Pumpkin Spice(Wayward Hollow,#1)

 

 

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

 Thank you to Love Notes PR and author,Hailey Frost For E ARC in exchange for an honest review.

Welcome to Wayward Hollow - Where strangers become family and love finds a way. 

After catching my fiancé tangled up with my sister (yes, my sister), and being told by my parents I was “overreacting,” I packed my best friend and what was left of my dignity to flee to Wayward Hollow - a picturesque little town that looks like it was plucked straight out of a Hallmark movie. 

I try to put myself back together. People-pleasing? Officially retired. Love? Off the table.
At least that was the plan. 

But Chaos unfolds when my attempt to save a stray cat leads me to Henry. The town’s beloved veterinarian is gentle, ridiculously attractive, and seems to have a sixth sense for broken things...including me. 

Just when I start to believe in new beginnings, the past comes knocking—loud, uninvited, and far from finished 

 

 🌷

This was such story! I got so many fall vibes while reading this book, and once again, another book that makes me want to read another autumn book. Hailey Frost is a new author to me, whom I discovered on Instagram, and it was the cover that captured my attention first, followed by the blurb of the book, which sounded exactly like the type of romance books that I enjoy reading. I loved the town, Wayward Hollow, which reminded me of Stars Hallow from Gilmore Girls. I liked how the author described the town, and I could easily picture myself in it. It's the kind of town I imagine myself living in. Most of all, I liked how welcoming everyone was to Nic and Lauren. 

I liked Nic from the start, but my heart broke for what she was going through. I don't blame her for wanting to leave and start over. If I were in her position, I would have done the same thing. I just hoped she'd start over and try to move forward. I could tell she was hesitant to start a new relationship at first, which I understood, but I hoped she would see past it and realize how much Henry cared for her. I adored their relationship and Henry's efforts to care for her. I was rooting for them both! It was hard for me to put the book down because I wanted to see what would happen with two of them next. 

I liked how the book had a slight paranormal element, and how the author worked it into the story. Of course, I adored all of the animals in the story and their names. I liked how most of the characters interacted in the story, but I loved Lauren and Nic's friendship the most. Everybody needs a friend like Lauren. I am excited to read Lauren’s story. This is a perfect read for autumn. I highly recommend checking out this book!

Falling Hard At Pumpkin Spice Cabins(Meet Cute,#2)

 

 

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

 

Thank you to the author,Persis Lassiter for E-ARC via Netgalley, in exchange for an honest review.

 

 RELEASE DATE: SEPTEMBER 15,2025

When Maine bookstore owner and workaholic Tessa Monroe spots a social media ad for a Halloween-themed singles retreat at a remote lakefront campground, she signs up expecting cozy cabins, haunted hayrides, lakeside cocktails, and maybe a harmless October fling. Love? That’s definitely not on her fall to-do list. 

 
Enter Rowan Kane—tattooed, brooding, and annoyingly mysterious—who’s holed up in one of the larger cabins on the property. But when a masked figure turns the campground’s haunted hayride into a real-life nightmare, Rowan is the first to jump in and protect her. 

With the masked villain still on the loose, Rowan insists Tessa stay with him—for safety, of course. The cabin? Huge. The hot tub? Steamy. The bed? Just one. And Rowan? Six feet of inked-up temptation with eyes as sharp as his sarcasm.

 

 🌷

 
I am in love. 

There is so much more I could say about this story, but I don't want to give too much away. This fantastic story has completely blown me away. Last night, one more chapter turned into finishing the book because I couldn't put this book down; I needed to see what would happen next with Tessa and Rowan. I'm still thinking about the story and the characters because I can't seem to get them out of my mind; it's everything I love about rom coms. I even told my best friend about it, who loves reading, and I probably will be talking about it until it is released. 

I adored Rowan and Tessa. I loved how the two of them met and how their relationship developed. I couldn't help but smile when Rowan took care of Tessa; he's the kind of guy every girl dreams about. Every page and scene left me wondering what would happen next between the two of them. If I had more time, I know I would spend the entire day reading this book. I loved how the author described everything in the book; I could picture it in my head like a movie. I loved Persis’s first book, The Layover That Changed Everything, but I loved Falling Hard At Pumpkin Spice Cabins even more, and I am already looking forward to her next one! 

After reading Falling Hard At Pumkin Spice Cabins, I felt compelled to read another autumn-themed book. I enjoyed the book references in this book, especially since some of them were books that I had read. This book made me hungry. I intend to try out the recipes mentioned in the book. I highly recommend adding this book to your to-read list. I already know that Peris Lassiter will be an instant read author for me.

As A Last Resort.

 

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

4.5★

Thank you to publisher Forever(Grand Central Publishing) for providing me with E ARC Via Netgalley, in exchange for an honest review 

 

 RELEASE DATE: SEPTEMBER 2,2025

 

  

 

After her mother’s substance abuse left her raising herself, Samantha Leigh left everyone in her Florida small town behind. She much prefers her new life as a real estate developer in New York City—with its nonstop noise, packed sidewalks, and her fellow workaholics. But when her work nemesis falls ill, she's forced to be his replacement on a new resort development project…in her hometown. Needing this assignment to get the promotion she desperately wants, Sam will just have to suck it up and get in and out as soon as possible. 

Only the plan to avoid all of the hot local spots falls apart. Back on the island, Sam is confronted with everything she ran away her inebriated mother, her ex-best friend, and her old high school bullies now married with children. It certainly doesn't help when the town golden boy (and her childhood crush), Austin Marcs, keeps coming to her rescue. As her ex-best friend’s brother and someone who loves his hometown, he’s only trouble waiting to happen and comes with too many strings attached. Despite Sam's best efforts, Austin soon has her going out and enjoying old stomping grounds, white beaches, and the Florida sunset, making it hard to hold on to the grudges of her past. But will she leave all she’s worked for behind for a chance at love . . . or potentially destroy the small town that holds her most painful memories 

A heartwarming story that you will fall in love with. 

 🌷

When it comes to debut authors, I am never sure what to expect. However, I love discovering new authors and supporting them. Kristin Wollett's debut novel. As A Last Resort. had everything I love about romance novels. I liked that this story wasn't only a romance story, but it also dealt with real-life issues, which to me made the book so much more realistic. I liked how Kristin portrayed the characters' emotions; it was as if I were transported into their minds, feeling everything, Sam and Austin were feeling. In general, the descriptions in this book were amazing; I felt like I was in Florida. 

I loved Austin and Sam's relationship from the start. At first, I felt Sam was in denial about her feelings for Austin, or she didn't take it as seriously as Austin. I hoped that she would see how much Austin cared about her. I enjoyed the dual perspectives of Austin and Sam. It offered a different perspective on the story. Each perspective provided a better understanding of each character, resulting in a stronger connection. Every chapter had me flipping the pages, curious to see what would happen next between the two of them. I rooted for the two of them throughout the book. 

I felt like it took a few chapters to get into the story. I felt like it dragged on at first. When the story picked up, I couldn't get enough of it; I kept turning the pages and occasionally lost track of time. The character development in this book was outstanding, particularly Sam's. She's come a long way since the beginning of the book. I'm glad I got the chance to read Sam and Austin's story. I am excited to see what the author has in store for us next!

The Secret Book Society.

 

 

 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

 Thank you to the publisher,Harlequin Trade Publishing|Hanover Square Press for E-ARC via Netgalley, in exchange for an honest review.

You are cordially invited to the Secret Book Society…

 
London, 1895: Trapped by oppressive marriages and societal expectations, three women receive a mysterious invitation to an afternoon tea at the home of the reclusive Lady Duxbury. Beneath the genteel facade of the gathering lies a secret book club—a sanctuary where they can discover freedom, sisterhood, and the courage to rewrite their stories. Eleanor Clarke, a devoted mother suffocating under the tyranny of her husband. Rose Wharton, a transplanted American dollar princess struggling to fit the mold of an aristocratic wife. Lavinia Cavendish, an artistic young woman haunted by a dangerous family secret. All are drawn to the enigmatic Lady Duxbury, a thrice-widowed countess whose husbands’ untimely deaths have sparked whispers of murder. 

As the women form deep, heartwarming friendships, they uncover secrets about their marriages, their pasts, and the risks they face. Their courage is their only weapon in the oppressive world that has kept them silent, but when secrets are deadly, one misstep could cost them everything.

 

 🌷

 
The Secret Book Society was the second book that I read by Madeline Martin, and it will not be the last. Martin's newest book, The Secret Book Society, captured my interest from the title alone. After reading the book's synopsis, I became even more intrigued. I was curious to see how Lady Duxubury, Eleanor, Rose and Lavina would connect. I liked how the story was told from the perspectives of most of the characters, which allowed the reader to connect with each of them better. I liked how Martin depicted each of the women's emotions, which I felt while reading the book. I could feel their pain, fear, anger, and joy while they were together and reading books. When they talked about books, it made me smile because it reminded me of discussing my favorite books with friends and exchanging them. 

The Secret Book Society This book isn't just about friendship; it's also about survival and courage. Each of these women went through so much. I’m glad that they had somewhere where they could escape. I enjoyed how the author developed these women's relationships throughout the book. There were a few slower parts in the book, but they did not last long. I found it difficult to pull myself away from the story. I needed to know how it would end. If I were asked which was my favorite character, I don’t think I would be able to decide, each of the characters was unique in their own way. 

The setting was one of my favorite aspects of this book. I adore this time period, and reading about it made me imagine myself there. Martin's novel, The Secret Of Book Society, focused heavily on women and was beautifully written. I could tell how much research went into this book. I'm so glad I got a chance to read this book. I highly recommend it to all historical fiction fans

Rules For Fake Girlfriends.

 

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

 Thank you to the publisher,Wednesday Books for E-ARC via Netgalley, in exchange for an honest review.

 

 RELEASE DATE: SEPTEMBER2,2025

 

 

Rom-com obsessed but perpetually single Avery Blackwell abandons her plans to attend Columbia in favor of spending her freshman year at her recently deceased mother’s alma mater in a seaside town in England. On the train, Avery makes a deal straight out of one of her beloved romance books with a charming local girl named Charlie: if Avery will pretend to be her girlfriend to make her ex jealous, Charlie will help Avery solve the scavenger hunt her artistic, free-spirited mother left behind on campus decades ago. 

As their quest takes them all over Brighton, Avery finally starts to connect with the mother she always loved but never really understood. Before long, pretending to be Charlie’s girlfriend starts to feel like more than just an illusion. But when long-hidden secrets come to light, Avery grapples with an uncertain future and whether or not love is worth the risk.

 🌷

 
I was excited about this book since Raegan Revord announced that she is writing it. I adored her in Young Sheldon and follow her book club. I was even more excited when I won a physical ARC in a Goodreads giveaway. There is so much I want to say about this story, so many emotions that are going through me right now, and I know that this is the book that I will end up re-reading in the future. Rules For Fake Girlfriends had everything that I love about rom coms. I fell in love not only with the story, but also with its characters. Revord made it sound realistic, simply based on emotions and actions of the characters. She made the character come to life for me. 

I enjoyed the aspect of the scavenger hunt, and I understand why Avery felt the need to go there, but I also understood her father's feelings. I loved the way each chapter was titled as "rom come rule," and I enjoyed reading each one. I adored Charlie and Avery from the start, especially their connection. I was rooting for those two from the beginning, hoping for a happy ending. 

Every character stood out for me in this book, even the minor ones. Most of all, I loved the way that grief was portrayed in this book. This book made me cry several times, but it also made me smile, laugh, and become annoyed. I felt like I was a part of Avery's crowd, which was what I liked about it. This was an incredible debut novel that inspired me to continue working on my own book. I can't wait to see what Raegan Revord has planned for us next!