August 3 - 22, 2024

 

The Cinderella Prince by Hayden Hall
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

It was interesting to see how both men were running in their own ways. You can also see how the neighborhood and it’s people are a part of the story. Cedric’s sister is a wonderful character as well. There is a lot for these men to work through as you get to the end of the story to find their HEA. Can’t wait for the next story in this series. I received an ARC in return for an honest review.

View all my reviews Learning to Walk by M.A. Innes
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I loved the sweet build of the relationship of all three men. Once again the residence of the building prove how special they all are. I can’t wait until the rest of the family get together.

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Not a lot to post right now.  I am working hard to get more books done for the Coastal Magic Reading Challenge.  

July 11 to August 2, 2024

 

No Rings Attached by Mona Shroff
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This story with a very dramatic moment. Sonny and Sangeeta decide a fake relationship is the way to go to fix everything. This sets off a whole series of events that seem to be spiraling out of control. I love the sweet way this story ends. The audio quality was well done. #CMCon25

 

View all my reviews My Bold Texan by Dakota Lacoy
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I enjoyed this sweet little romance. Paul is just helping out a friend and it’s life changing. I like Demi Lee’s stages of recover. I also like the narration of this story. #CMCon25

 

View all my reviews Reaper vs. Ripper by Stacey Rourke
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

This is a short story that packs a punch. You see how hard it it to be a reaper of the worst souls. There are a few twists to the story as well. The audio was high quality. #CMCon25

 

View all my reviews The Ranch Hand and the Single Dad by Jackie North
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Austin’s life is turned upside down when his wife divorces him. But the job of ranch accountant seems to be a good way to get a fresh start. Clay’s relaxed and friendly attitude is just what Austin needs. I like the sweet and easy feel of this story. It is low angst but full of feelings. #CMCon25

 

View all my reviews Mad About the Hatter by Dakota Chase
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This story was a lot of fun to read. Alice’s brother is now in Wonderland. He has a grand adventure with the Hatter. This is a young adult books with some kissing and a couple of bad words. This is a delightful tale that I thoroughly enjoyed. #CMCon25

 

View all my reviews A Fashionable Deception: A Contemporary M/M Steamy Romance Novella by Sera Taíno
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Milo is all business or at least he things he is. Alex is different in the way he reacts to Milo. this is a quick romance but you feel really good about the ending. I also liked the bonus story included at the end of the book. #CMCon25

 

View all my reviews Just a Little in Love by Victoria Sue
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

There is a lot of moments in Rowan’s life that will bring tears to your eyes. I loved seeing Gabriel’s views about his needs changing. The supporting cast add to the story. I couldn’t put this story down. #CMCon25

 
View all my reviews Whisk-y Business by Tere Michaels
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Instead of the girl moving to the small town and finding love this story get flipped. Poor Cam was in for quite a shock when Annalee bursts into his life. I appreciated Annalee’s strength and determination. So much is changing in their world but it is becoming a better place. I also love the little hints of magic in this story. Even the title and cover are very clever. #CMCon25

View all my reviewsBad Blood by Lucienne Diver
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Tori finds herself in the middle of a case that is huge. This story has a lot of danger and lots of action. It kept me on the edge of my seat. The audio was also well done. #CMCon25

 

View all my reviews Southern Howl: Magic and Mayhem Universe by H.M. McQueen
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Jane is back to visit family but things are heating up. Everyone is looking forward to the big gathering. Jane has some decisions to make. Southern Howl is a fun romp where everything works out in the end. #CMCon25

View all my reviews Disney Frozen Polar Nights: Cast into Darkness by Jen Calonita
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This was a great addition to the Frozen world. The sisters have a new emergency that it will take both of them to solve. There are dramatic moments and a mystery to solve. I really enjoyed this story. The audio version was well done. #CMCon25

View all my reviewsThe Christmas Accomplice by Hank Edwards
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I love the pacing of this story between Reece and Wilton. The rom-com elements of Dean showing up was fun. I also appreciate the fact that despite feelings they don’t rush into things either. This was a great Christmas in July choice for light hearted romance. #CMCon25

 

View all my reviews Phonebook by Amy Lane
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Ryan is working hard to provide for them. Scotty is missing him being home. But they find a creative way to stay in touch. #CMCon25

 

View all my reviews Four Corners by Kate McMurray
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

The ending of the story is satisfying. The beginning chapters start with a lot of looking pack into the past which helps create the back story. Personally though I had a hard time connecting with these two men which is why I gave the book 3 stars. #CMCon25

View all my reviews A Lesbian's Guide to Women by Erica Lee
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I decided to listen to this story because my daughter loved it and wanted me to listen to it. This story was so much fun. Poor Annalise is so clueless. Her family and friends are such great characters and add to the story. I like how Brinley starts to feel the change in her feelings. The narrator was really good.

 

View all my reviewsNo Rhyme or Riesling by G.R. Lyons
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I have been waiting months for the rest of Adam and John’s story. It was well worth the wait. These two men have been effected by the same events but in different ways. It was causing them problems in the here and now. But they work their way forward to a new beginning.

 

View all my reviewsHome by Cara Dee
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Dominic’s life had been hard and cruel. He has been forced to make decision for survival. I love the way Adrain becomes a part of his life. The back and forth to give space and time. And Thea is such a wonderful addition to the story. I love the touching ending to the story.

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It was a great month for getting more books read for the reading challenge.  I was also able to sneak in a few other books as well.  

Love this Book - ARC Review When We Meet Again by Hayden Hall

 

When We Meet Again by Hayden Hall
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This story really blew me away. I wasn’t expecting so many feels. There are moments that seemed bittersweet and hopeless. But there is always hope. Raphel and Luke both change and age but some things are made to last. I received an ARC in exchange for a honest review.

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June 24 - July 5, 2024

 

Mystery Magnet by Gregory Ashe
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This was a great mystery story. It kept me guessing until the end. I loved the whole ensemble cast. They had a rich layer to the story. This is a great cozy mystery. #CMCon25

 

View all my reviews Snowflakes and Song Lyrics by Hank Edwards
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This is very much a Christmas rom-com. Will just wants to help out his favorite singer but he gets very self-conscious. Meantime, Rex wants to track him down. You have small town magic and a wicked snow storm. What a great way to get things moving. #CMCon25

 

View all my reviews Halfway to the Grave by Jeaniene Frost
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I like they was we see Kat’s feelings evolve during the story. The action had me on the edge of my seat. While the story ends with a move to the next book it also felt like this chapter was wrapped up. The full cast narration was so much fun to listen to. #CMCon25

 

View all my reviews Bitter by Tigris Eden
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

I struggled with this story and review. It is much darker than I usually read. The story seems to be going in one direction and then takes an abrupt and sudden turn. There is a lot of violence in this story. If you are looking for a dark, revenge story then you would probably enjoy this one. #CMCon25

 

View all my reviews It's a Wonderful Midlife Crisis by Robyn Peterman
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Just a warning this book does end with a cliff hanger. The story drew me in. I like stories with older main characters. Daisy is turning 40 and things are changing. There are a lot of plot twists to this story. There are also some really special moments as well. The audio version was very entertaining. #CMCon25

View all my reviews It Cannoli Be Murder by Catherine Bruns
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I was so happy to have another visit with Tessa. I was glad to see her moving on in getting ready to open her restaurant. But of course when something goes wrong in her cousin Gabbi’s store. Tessa can’t help but get involved. It was fun to see old characters and the introduction of new ones. Good food with a side of mystery this book is delightful. The audio was well done and fun to listen to. #CMCon25

View all my reviews Long, Lean, and Lethal by Heather Graham
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This story is a bit closer to Law and Order than Murder She Wrote with a bit more graphic murder scenes. But the story is intriguing and really draws you in. There is a whole cast of characters. So many with the means to commit the crimes. I did guess the killer but the why was a surprise. And it was kind of fun having guessed right. The audio book was very well done. #CMCon25

View all my reviews Naughty Little Wishes by Nina Crespo
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Drew and Tabitha seem an unlikely pair. It appears as if they really rub each other the wrong way and don’t agree on anything. When Tabitha decides to help Drew things really heat up. This story is a lot of fun and very sexy. The audio version is a fun listen. #CMCon25

View all my reviews Game On by Tracy Solheim
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Both Carly and Shane have baggage from their childhoods. Both of the childhoods that were tragic in different ways. Shane seems to be afraid of a relationship of any kind. Carly has been building family with her sister. There are some tough moments to get Shane to reevaluate his life and priorities. I really liked the audio version. #CMCon25

View all my reviews The Faery Queen's Daughter by Melissa Marr
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This is a lively tale of bravery and strength. It explores what it means to be loyal to the truest cause. I love the arc of Jack Merry’s story. I also enjoyed seeing the other folk who learned to work together for what is right and good. There is indeed power in words. Listening to an audio was a great way to enjoy this story. #CMCon25

View all my reviewsUnlovable by Cynthia St. Aubin
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This is a short story that is a lot of fun. Matilda has built her life and practice. But one morning she finds Cupid as a patient. This leads to all kinds of wild adventures. #CMCon25

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June 14 - 23, 2024

Swipe Left, Power Down, Look Up by Amy Lane
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This is such a sweet story that starts with a meet cute. Trey and Dewey just seem to fit together despite their differences. I also loved their friends and family. #CMCon25

 

View all my reviewsThe Ghost in the Curve by Violet Howe
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I was surprised by how much I enjoyed this book. Sloane is a woman at the crossroads in so many ways. I also love how she was always creating headlines for her life. Tristan is a man that is restarting his life. Their budding relationship on its own would make a great story but when you add in Chelsea’s story and it takes this book to a whole new level. #CMCon25

View all my reviews Blind Items by Kate McMurray
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This story is a slow burn with some angsty moments. It also made me think about how hard it must be to be the family of a politician with views that don’t match your own. I really loved the dramatic flair that happens at the end of the book which like it should have the beginning instead of the end. #CMCon25

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I have been busy working on the Coastal Magic Reading Challenge for 2025.  There are 71 authors and tons of books to choose from.  And the best part is I will actually get to meet this authors in February.  For more information on both the Coastal Magic Convention and the Reading Challenge click HERE. #CMCon25

June 1 - 14, 2024

 So excited the 2025 Coastal Magic Reading Challenge has begun.  I had a great vacation and got a lot of reading and audio books listened to while I was gone.  

How to Save an Undead Life by Hailey Edwards
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I was a bit confused at the start of the story even stopping to check I was reading book 1 in the series. But as the story unfolds you realize that Grier herself was also confused about what had and was happening to her. There seem to be so many people trying to manipulate Grier for their own purposes. I like that see seems to be developing her own strength. It will be interesting to see what happens in Grier’s future. I listened to the audio which was a great way to meet a new author in a genre I don’t often read. #CMCon25

View all my reviews My Orc Bodyguard by Veronika Kane
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This story was such a fun little romp of a reconnection. While finding a lost love ina visit to a small town but with a twist. “Monsters”!. I really enjoyed this cute little romance and will return to the island for more. #CMCon25

 

View all my reviews Beaches, Bungalows & Burglaries by Tonya Kappes
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I loved the whole cast of characters from Normal, KY. Mae West is stronger than she thinks. I also liked that even when she wanted to sell off the grounds she still wanted to leave the campground and the town a better place. The ending was a total surprise. I listened to the audio and it sounded great. #CMCon25


View all my reviews The Dream Keeper's Daughter by Emily Colin
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I was drawn in from the beginning of the story where you feel the coming a mystery. I like how Finn is a part of the story. The drama of the past is so striking and dramatic. But my feelings were mixed at the ending of the story. There were questions that I felt went unresolved. I don’t want to same more because I don’t want to give spoilers but I wasn’t completely happy with the way things turned out. #CMCon25

View all my reviews Stalking Buffalo Bill by J. Leigh Bailey
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Donnie has a crush and is finally ready to make his move. It doesn’t go as smoothly as he wants but he still has hope. Then enter the bad guys. What follows is a series of mishaps and drama as each man does his best to protect the other. There is a lot of frustration and some rash choices on the way to the happy ending. I enjoyed this new author to me. #CMCon25

 

View all my reviews Nutty For You by Morgan Brice
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This is a short story of finding the person who really sees you and still wants you. It was also a great way to kick off the first read of the 24-25 Reading Challenge. This story has lots of humor and some tension. I love when Elias mentions the squirrel giving him gifts. #CMCon25


View all my reviews Last Chances by M.A. Grant
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

I think the theme of this story could be just be honest about your feelings. There was drama that was because people didn’t state their real reasons. Also, Cat’s brother was such a hypocrite. This was a story story that does make it a HEA. #CMCon25

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Quick post for Hayden Hall’s New Release

 I’m on vacation and reading up a storm but I wanted to get this review out of Hayden Hall’s latest release Coaching Prince Charming.  

Coaching Prince Charming by Hayden Hall
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This final book in the Titan series has a different vibe because it takes us away from the team house. Carter has dreams that he hasn’t been able to pursue. Nate is adjusting to life off the ice. The drama with Carter’s dad takes a the story to a whole new level. Both Carter and Nate have to evaluate what they want. The epilogue is a nice wrap up. I received and ARC in exchange for a honest review.

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