November 26 - December 2, 2025

 Wow another month.  There is so much going on.  I have a batch of more Coastal Magic Reading Challenge Books. Just look for the reviews with #CMCon26 to know which books are from the Coastal Magic Writers.   I also have had a chance to read some other the other books on my very tall To Be Read pile.  

A Kiss Before Christmas by A.E. Ryecart
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Rory is looking for some shelter from the storm. Jack is surprised when he finds out the pile of rubbish is alive. Stepping in to help out Jack gives Rory some time to recover begins to turn in so much more. A sweet story of finding love in unexpected places.


View all my reviews Asher's Answer by Anna Sparrows
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Asher is trying so hard to keep everything together but it is unraveling fast. Josh is the officer on duty and sees that Asher needs some special care. Josh enlists his brother Charlie. Charlie is able to provide so much for Asher. But Asher is also giving back. And when Charlie is hurt you see the whole family coming together and making things work. A great example of how no mater the dynamic you really just need to be there for each other.

View all my reviews Roommate by Sarina Bowen
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Kieran is a very private person with a whole lot of secrets. Roderick is drawn to Kieran but personally doesn’t want to deal with being someone’s secret. But a dramatic moment reveals so many things that there is a lot to sort and figure out.

 

View all my reviews Rescuing the Writer by Nora Phoenix
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Melburn’s life is going up in flames literally. Waylon is there and offers him a safe place to work while the RV gets fixed. It was fun to see them both take those first fun steps to a relationship.

 

View all my reviews The (Maybe) Murderer Who Knocked Me Up by Amy Bellows
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Quin knows what he wants and goes for it. But choices have consequences. Life takes a terrible twist for both Slade and Quin in different ways. I like the fact that there was still a ghost of a connection. The ending is so beautiful and special. I’m really looking forward to more in this new series.


View all my reviews Felix and the Prince by Lucy Lennox
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I loved Felix who seems so calm compared to the rest of the Wildes. He has a love for beautiful glass. I loved his excitement at just being there. Running into Leo was a bonus. Leo has to come to terms with what is best for his country and himself. Meddling little sisters always add an element of fun. I also like the background love story surrounding the glass itself.

View all my reviews How to Catch a Biker by Ana Ashley
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I really love this Chester Falls episode. Slade has so much in his past and I like how his story slowly unfolds. Aiden has come to reset his life. As they get to know each other their past collides with their present. I like seeing how each man was there for the other as they dealt with what life is handing them.

 

View all my reviews A Daddy for Christmas 3: Felix by Victoria Sue
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Clayton’s life is falling apart and there is no one to care. Felix is drawn but doesn’t do relationships. But Felix is drawn to Clayton. As their relationship develops both men hav to examine what they really want and need. Some dramatic moments had me grabbing for tissues but the ending is beautiful. #CMCon26

 

View all my reviews Facing West by Lucy Lennox
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Nico left everything because he thought it was for the best. Weston is one of the golden one. Weston is a doctor and part of the huge and loving Wilde family. Death bring them together. My heart was breaking for Nico who was so misunderstood by everyone. It was also fun to get a little peek at the Marian family. I loved seeing both men explore their feelings. It took time to get things right. The story doesn’t rush their HEA.

View all my reviewsThe Christmas Rescue by V.L. Locey
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This is a wonderful holiday story. Decker wants his dad’s approval and really thinks Acosta signing a contract will fix things for both of them. But time together turns things in a different direction as Acosta and his family become a part of Decker’s life. And you start to wonder who is rescuing who.

 

View all my reviews The Curious Mountain Man by Casey Cox
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I love how both men were honest with each other. They each had something that made them feel like they were lacking in some way. I like how they compliment each other and support each other. I really loved the ending scene with Branum at the library with PJ. While fast paced because of the length of the book it was such a fun little love story.

View all my reviews Rayne Check: A Love in Mission City Short Story by Gabbi Grey
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I had already read Rayne’s Return but it was still a lot of fun to see how things began between them. It feels like they were destine to be together.

 

View all my reviews Slow Heat by Leta Blake
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Vale has been living his life unbonded. Jason was a typical college freshman. But discovering their bond upends both of their worlds. There is hurt and conflict along the way. I love how much Jason rises to each challenge. In an eerie reflection of current events we see the the effect of dangerous secrets people must keep because of political decisions. #CMCon26

View all my reviews Carol: Being a Ghost Story of Christmas by Darin Kennedy
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I have always loved finding new adaptations of a Christmas Carol. This one will be among my favorites. I love the development of Carol as the center piece of the story. We see what things both real and her perception of events that shaped her. There are some very unique elements with the central figure being a teen. But the best parts of the beloved story are here, too. #CMCon26

View all my reviews Dessert is the Bomb by Catherine Bruns
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Another great mystery. It was interesting to see all the twists and turns. There was so many dramatic moments. Sally’s family is a hoot and sometimes part of the problem. I love when I get surprised by a cozy mystery. #CMCon26

 

View all my reviews Scared Witchless by Amy Boyles
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Dylan and her sisters get some great publicity for their shops but that sets some not great things into motion. Their lives are turned upside down and they need to track a killer before they can kill again. I love the humor sprinkled into the story. I also love the way everything works out. #CMCon26

 

View all my reviews Pen Name - Doctor Chicken by K.C. Burn
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This was a sweet story. Both men have a lot going on in their lives. Vinni has been busy taking care of his family and guarding his heart. Stratford has been taking care of himself for a while. There is some conflict when Vinni tries to hard to help. I love the fact that despite problems they were able to work things out. #CMCon26

 

View all my reviews Charlie and the Panther by Vinni George
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Matteo has been through so much. He is strong and talented but he doesn’t see any of that. Charlie is drawn to the man but understands so he knows to move slowly. There is so much drama that moves them along. I love the sweet way things work out. I also loved the revisit with some of the other Land and Sea couples. #CMCon26

 

View all my reviewsEverett and the Wolf by Vinni George
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I really loved Everett and Merritt’s story. Their trip was a very special experience I like how Everett admits he made a mistake about the plans for the trip. I also like the fact that Merritt was able to see that Everett did mean it for the best. The rescue scene is so beautiful and that is all I will say because I don’t want to spoil anything. I also like the peek at Dominic and can’t wait for his story. #CMCon26

View all my reviews A Snowbound Christmas Cowboy by Sasha Summers
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

My heart really goes out to Sterling he has faced so much in his life. He wants to make things right. Cassie also needs to understand her feelings in a grown up way. They talked about what was most important. I like the fact that both of them are action people. They are better at showing then telling. #CMCon26

 

View all my reviews Once Upon a Christmas Song by Mary Calmes
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Chris has been caring for his bar and all the people that work there. He has also been trying to move beyond lost love. Dawson recognizes that he lost what matters the most in his pursuit of fame. But he has returned for a 2nd chance. I like that the story is really what can happen in one day. You see the hope to for all but especially Dawson and Chris despite work that still needs to be done. #CMCon26

View all my reviews The 7-10 Split by Karmen Lee
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I think this was a fun book where one girls stayed and the other moved away. Grace’s return stirs up old feelings for Ava and their terrible boss just make things worse. They are making some progress. But Grace’s parents come to town and they are also horrible. I like that they are able to talk things out for themselves. #CMCon26

 

View all my reviews The Relationship Mechanic by Karmen Lee
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I really enjoyed Vinni’s character. She is hard working and successful. Jessica seemed shallow for a lot of the book but points for being honest about what she expected. I like how Vinni stood up for herself with her sisters and Jessica. I also like how it ended with both women realizing things about themselves. #CMCon26

 

View all my reviews My Orc [Fake] Boyfriend by Veronika Kane
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I always think fake dating as a troupe is so much fun especially when both people already have feelings. They both are great sticking up for each other. I like how Cairo helps Meli see her own worth. I also like learning more about Cairo and the other Orcs' back story. I always enjoy a visit to the island. #CMCon26

 

View all my reviews You Fell First by R.L. Merrill
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This story is the beginning of a sweet romance. Their meet up was pretty rough between crashing cars and falling trees. There is an attraction but Calvin is maintaining his sobriety and gets triggered. But once he is honest with Flor things can begin moving forward. #CMCon26

 

View all my reviews Wilhelmina, A Winter Bride by Rose Wilder
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Wilhelmina has been put in a bad circumstanced through no fault of her own. But she takes control of her life and decides to head west as a mail order bride. Marcus is a bit rough around the edges but he is a good man. They have to learn how to be a couple but they do work on things together. I also like how much Wilhelmina was willing to work to learn about what she needed to do to be a homestead wife. This was a sweet winter romance. #CMCon26

View all my reviews Immortal Delirium: The Immortal Series, Book 2 by Carolyn Cross
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

There are so many twists and turns in this story. There are also so many characters to keep track of. I needed to makes notes to keep up. With many of the characters including Tristan there seemed to be so many secret agendas and double crossing. Kate is a strong and determined woman who wants her brother back and is willing to go to any length to get him back. Ethan is man who has been changed in many ways that I don’t think he even understands himself. While this story is well written the level of violence was a bit much for me. Also the ending again levels you on the edge of a dark cliff. But if this type of fantasy is your jam you will really love this book. #CMCon26

View all my reviews Christmas at the Inn on Cloud Hill by Tina DeSalvo
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

For a short romance story there is a lot going on. Daniel and Aurora have a past only one of them seems to remember. There are some painful memories that are brought to light. All this creates problems for the couple. But a visitor to town holds the key to unlock the past so they can move forward. #CMCon26

 

View all my reviewsA Witch For Mr. Holiday by Deanna Chase
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This is a great holiday romance. Rex and Holly are hitting it off but there is an end date to their romance. It was bittersweet when Holly was seeing her vision and expecting the worse. It was so great when they communicate and both share everything. The ending was such a surprise and now I can’t wait for the next book in the series. #CMCon26

View all my reviewsA Yule to Remember: Haven Harbor 3 by Jeanne Adams
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This is a small town Christmas romance with a twist. The town is full of magick and traditions to keep it safe. There is also an arsonist on the loose. In the midst of all this Reyn and Annie are drawn together. There is action and drama as well as a sweet romance. #CMCon26

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November 4 - 25, 2025

 A few more reviews for before this month draws to a close.  

A Home for Barney by Elouise East
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This is a sweet love story. While both men have been hurt in the past this story focuses on them as a couple. Liam needs help to control his puppy. Troy has been watching and as soon as he gets a chance things take off. Great book of finding your perfect match.

View all my reviews Too Close to Risk by M.A. Innes
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

As both couples are secure in their relationships so there is room to grow more. All four men are exploring ways to make their built family stronger. Also you see their support system continues to expand and grow. It is also fun to watch what Kevin will come up with next.

View all my reviews Sleigh Bells and Second Chances by Gabbi Grey
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Both Ryan and Simeon have difficulties that feel get in the way of their futures. I really love the gentle way Simeon is there for Ryan even before they really knew each other. And while Simeon gives so much to Ryan; Ryan in his own way gives back. Simeon’s grandparents and the dog are also great side characters to the story.

View all my reviews Rayne's Return by Gabbi Grey
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This story caught me from the beginning and drew me in. I like how even as a reader we aren’t given all the information about Rayne until the end. It was also great to see the kind of man Everett is with his friends and his job. And Champ is a wonderful addition to the story.

View all my reviews Daddy's Little Wolf by A.W. Scott
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This is a great story with lots of sweet love. There is also an element of danger that needs to be overcome. Davenport has found the perfect place to start a new life. And Master Clark is a very lucky man.

 

View all my reviews Marrying Maxim: A Matchmaker Romance by Tmonique Stephens
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

Maxim and Giselle both have their issues from the past. You add in relatives who aren’t as helpful as they think and it gets really messy. Max needed to do a bit less lying even for a “good” reason. And Giselle needed to just communicate. They do work things out in the end but I was wondering if they would for a while. #CMCon26

View all my reviews A Little Christmas! Cole's Secret by Sue Brown
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Cole’s dad excels him because he doesn’t like his lifestyle. He arrives at his Uncle’s house with no idea of what will be happening. But it soon becomes clear that there are all manner of secrets. Wyatt is a friend of Cole’s uncle and becomes a major part of all that’s revealed. I really loved the strength of all the characters at the end of the story.

View all my reviews Pick Us, Daddy by T.L. Travis


Jonovan is a nice guy and is looking for something more. He sees something that catches his eye. Riya and Stefan have been watching out for themselves but they also need something more. I like that they were ready for each other at the same time. There is some drama with a past encounter that creates risks especially for Riya. I do love the way everything works out for them. And Jonovan has the best family ever.

View all my reviews Big Difference by Ana Ashley
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This is a sweet low angst love story. After a misunderstanding Aston and Seth ending up in a working relationship. This works out well for them.

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October 21 - November 3, 2025

 Here are the great books I read for Coastal Magic for my November points.  

Phantom Light: A Phantoms Novella by Jessica Hawke
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

This story opens on an accident scene. We are drawn into Valerie’s story as she comes to terms with her reality. It also deals with the choices we make and their consequences. This story is laying out the ground work for the rest of the series. The end of the book gives you a peak at what comes next where will see more of Valerie’s sister Bridget. #CMCon26

View all my reviews The City Beneath by Melody Johnson
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

This story introduces you to the underground world of vampires. There is a power grab within the coven. Cassidy is a reporter who gets caught up in the trouble. She has had to deal with Dominic the Vampire Master and Ian a vampire hunter. It felt like all of the main characters seemed to be using each other. This book does a great job of world building and setting you up for the rest of the series. But I will admit that I personally had a hard time with the is story which reflects my rating. I just didn’t do so well with the blood and gore. #CMCon26

 

View all my reviews The Shoe Diaries by Darby Baham
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This story is much more the story of a woman’s journey than the romance story I was expecting. It really highlights the strengths and power of women’s friendships. I really enjoyed Reagan’s story and seeing her face difficult challenges. Be warned there are also moments in this book that will bring tears to your eyes. #CMCon26

 

View all my reviews Dark Hope by H.D. Smith
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

If you are a fan of dark stories with lots of layers this is the book for you. There is great world building and a whole host of paranormal characters that are all integral to the plot. Be warned the ending is really a cliff hanger. I had trouble with the way everyone is using Claire and finding was to make her life more miserable. There is a lot of nonconsensual touching which drives the storyline. It all got to be a bit much for my taste. #CMCon26

View all my reviews The Dream Heist by Christina Farley
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

The plot line of this story keeps you guessing as to what would happen next. While Aria is the center of the story there is a full cast of characters that create depth to this story. I like that the main plot of this story gets resolved. This story is a fast paced story through the world and dreams. #CMCon26

 

View all my reviews Cartel Cobra: (Esteban) by Sabine Barclay
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Luciana lives a life surrounded by danger. She is being forced into a marriage that is good for the family. Esteban brings a new layer to her life. When things go down she has to rely on her instincts to know who to trust. I like the epilogue that gives a glimpse of the future. There is also a bonus scene link you can download. It takes place between the last chapter and the epilogue. It has answers and sexy times. Great addition to the story. #CMCon26

View all my reviews If I Love You by Tmonique Stephens
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Kensley has had a hard time of it after her public break up and losing her brother. She has plans but Noah appearance throws everything off. There are lots of action scenes built into the story. And the path to this a HEA is definitely bumpy. #CMCon26

 

When They Call: A Cassadaga Warriors Short Story by L.E. Perez
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Sam survived a near death experience. Despite her miraculous recovery she has other issues to deal with. She comes searching for answers. Gabe becomes a new friend. I like the dramatic scene and the budding relationship between Gabe and Sam. This story is short but it has a great plot line. #CMCon26

 

View all my reviews Renovation Of Love by Meka James
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I like this story with mature characters. Since this is a second chance romance there is baggage or old wounds that need to be addressed. But for the most part they communicated like adults and work on their issues. I felt bad for Marcel who felt abandon. But also liked the mature way they came to deal with the past and how things played out. Great characters. I look forward to the next book in the series. #CMCon26

View all my reviews View all my reviews The First Rule of Hook-Ups by Nina Crespo
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Alexa is on the edge of a new life and having a good time. But things don’t work out as planned. She is working on reorganizing her life. Rafe has worked hard to make a good life for himself. Their worlds cross and it changes everything for both of them. I love the way things develop. The ending is sweet. #CMCon26

Trick or Treat Temptation by Hank Edwards
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I love being back at the Williamsburg Inn and just in time for my favorite holiday. Ivan gets included with his BFF’s family reunion. I like how both him and Sky were feeling drawn to each other. Family can make you crazy but getting together can be worth it. #CMCon26

 

View all my reviews Dominic and the Dolphin by Vinni George
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This is a great example that there is a thin line between hate and love. Dante is a successful and busy omega. Dominic has formed a negative view of Dante. We get to see them as both men start to reevaluate what they think of each other. I loved the nesting story it was hilarious. #CMCon26

 

View all my reviews Silent Partner by Morgan Brice
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Branden is sure he will be alone until he notices a beautiful scent. I like how both he and Riley were careful in trying not to push to know more. I appreciate the humor of Riley seeing people as their animal as he was trying to decide if shifters were real or not. There is drama but mostly unlikely pair finding each other. #CMCon26

 

View all my reviewsThis Wedding is Doomed! by Stephanie Draven
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I really love this collection of stories that take place on one day at the same wedding from many different view points.

The Wedding Planner: Flirting with Disaster - Amanda Berry - features Seth and Julie - I loved they way Seth slowly helps Julie have a fun time. There is a lot of humor as they countdown to the wedding approaches. I also like the way it all turns out.

The Maid of Honor: Love in Lockdown - Shawntelle Madison - features Renata and Max. Long time friends but Max has feelings. Renata doesn’t want a relationship. But there they are trapped with nothing but time and booze. This could be the start of something beautiful. #CMCon26

The Other Woman: Sex, Lies, and Karmic Catastrophe - Stephanie Draven - features Blake and Penny. Blake is having a hard time caught between an ex-girlfriend as his best friend who expects him to keep secrets. He had changed so much but Penny helps him find his was back to something better.

The Bride: Love on the Run - Jeannie Lin - features Tess and Andy. When a bride wants to steal your truck you just go with the flow. Andy is there to talk things out. But timing is everything.

We get to see a really busy day so we can only speculate what is to come for all these couples

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