Book Review: The Situationship by Abby Jimenez

Author: Abby Jimenez

Title: The Situationship

Series: Part of Your World #3.5

Genre: Romance, Short Story, Novella, Comedy

Format: ebook

Pages: 37

Published: September 24, 2024

Where I got It: Borrowed from library

Summary: 

Travel nurse Maddy doesn't have time for a relationship, not even with the ruggedly handsome farmer who she feels a spark of attraction to.

Doug is a walking green flag. After a run in with Maddy thanks to the Wakan town mascot, Kevin Bacon the pig, he can't help but feel the spark too.

Even though she doesn't plan on staying in Minnesota forever, Maddy believes she and Doug can still have a fling… or maybe they’ll just find themselves in a situationship. 

Review:

After the conclusion of the last book I had to read this little novella. 

Maddy doesn't want or have time for a relationship. She doesn't plan on staying in Minnesota forever...just long enough to make sure her friend is settled. However, she meets Doug who is a ruggedly handsome farmer who is the owner of the town's mascot....Keving Bacon the pig. There is a spark there and they can't help themselves. 

After the ending of the last book (as I mentioned), I had to read this. I had to know how and why these two people fell in love. Out of all the characters in all of the books, I didn't think these two would fall for each other. So unlikely! So opposite! So....of course they fell in love. What is wrong with me? It's like I've never read a romance ;)

But yes, it was a funny and fun meet-cute. I love Kevin Bacon. I didn't think I would like this coupling, but I ended up falling in love with them. 

This needed more. I wanted more. But it worked fine with the length. Maybe we'll see them in future books. 

Short and cute. I actually read this twice because I liked it. I'll give it 5 stars. 

Favorite Character(s): Kevin Bacon the pig

Least Favorite Character(s): no one 

 Challenge(s):

- Library Love #22

Re-listen: Wild Irish Christmas by Tricia O'Malley

Author: Tricia O'Malley

Narrator: Amy Landon

Title: Wild Irish Christmas

Series: Mystic Cove #9

Genre: Paranormal Romance, Fantasy, Novella

Format: Audiobook 

Published: December 18, 2020

Where I Got It: Audible

Summary: 

Lily Walden finds herself inexplicably drawn to the small village of Grace’s Cove where she retreats to heal from a broken relationship as the lonely Christmas holiday looms. Escaping each evening into dreams more vivid than life, Lily nurtures a secret desire to write the fairy tales she lives each night. If only the fae prince of her dreams could rescue her from her haunted past.

Prince Callum, head of a secret faction of Fae protectors, is desperate to find his fated mate as each night she sings their lovesong to him in his dreams. One fateful night, he takes to the seas to find her, only to land catastrophically at the shores of an enchanted cove.

With Prince Callum near death, only Lily can save him in time, forever sealing their fated bond – but first, she must bring herself to believe in her own fairy tale…

Review:

We're back babbbyyy! I decided to have a relisten to this one because....I couldn't remember anything that happened. It's been so long. 

Here we have Prince Callum of the Fae and Lily the human. After an abusive relationship, she needs to break free. She runs to Grace's Cove. She doesn't know why, but it calls for her name. This could be the escape she needs to heal and write her little fantasy stories that she dreams about. Little does she know that her dreams have been real and Callum is real and has been looking for her. He finally gets the clue he needs to find her, but he is attacked and near death until Lily saves him. 

Again....I loved this as much as I did the first time. It's so sweet and they are adorable. Lily deserves all the love the world can give her. Callum is adorable and sweet and perfect. 

I loved seeing old faces along at the pub. This is a cross-over with another of the author's works so that is fun. I read book of that other series...I should push forward and read more once I catch up with this one. Soooo many books....so little time. 

But yes. Still just as sweet as the first time I read it. I wanted more though. I just really loved these characters. 

The narrator? Still amazing. Still perfect for this series. 

5 stars still from me.

Favorite Character(s): Lily and Callum

Least Favorite Character(s): Lily's ex

 Challenge(s):

- Audiobook #35

2-in-1 Short Story Reviews: The Key Ingredient and The Inn at Blue Hollow Falls

Author: Susan Wiggs

Title: The Key Ingredient

Series: Switchback, Vermont #0.5

Genre: Contemporary Romance, Short story, Novella, Chick Lit

Format: ebook

Pages: 49

Published: June 14, 2016

Where I got It: Borrowed from library

Summary: 

Every great love story has a beginning. Annie Rush’s started at a food cart in a vibrant city park. Annie, then a film student, came across a ruggedly handsome, charismatic chef serving up gourmet street food to an ever-growing clientele lining up for his creations. Together, Annie and Martin Harlow conceived The Key Ingredient, a cooking show featuring Martin as the star while Annie handles production.

As they travel to Annie’s Vermont hometown to film their pilot episode, she realizes that she might want to create more than television magic with Martin. But does he feel the same way? The weather is miserable, their shoot is a disaster, and the maple syrup just isn’t flowing. While Annie tries to cling to her vision for their show, she can’t help but wonder if she could be as unlucky in work as she is in love. Is she always destined to stay behind the scenes?

Just as some recipes only come together at the last minute with the addition of a key ingredient, sometimes a single moment can change everything—turning Annie’s life into a cornucopia of good fortune, the feast of her dreams.

Review:

Been itching for some quick stories. So I grabbed this one because of the author and title. I didn't even read the summary. Weeeee. 

Here we follow Annie who is a film student. She meets the rugged and handsome chief named Martin. Together they decide to create a show and they go to Vermont to film the pilot episode. Everything seems to be against them. And now Annie is starting to get feelings for Martin, but she isn't sure he feels the same. However, a single moment can change everything. 

Look at that cover! Nommmmmmy!

As much as I wanted to like this....I just didn't. I didn't connect with any of our mains. I didn't dislike this short, but I just flat out didn't care. I read every page, but I felt like I was zoning out throughout the whole story. 

Annie and Martin wasn't bad or anything. I just...........didn't buy their chemistry. 

I'm curious about book since we get to see more of their journey but I'm not sure. Maybe if I get a fully flushed out story about Annie and Martin I'll care more? Maybe? Mmm. 

All-in-all, I wish I liked this more. But...just not for me. The cover is cute and the writing isn't bad! I like this author! 2 stars.  

 

Favorite Character(s): no one

Least Favorite Character(s): myself for not liking this lol

 Challenge(s):

- Library Love #16

Author: Donna Kauffman

Title: The Inn at Blue Hollow Falls

Series: Blue Hollow Falls #1.5

Genre: Contemporary Romance, Short Story, Novella, Chick Lit

Format: ebook

Pages: 122

Published: October 31, 2017

Where I got It: Borrowed from library

Summary: 

Stevie is thrilled to help her best friend Sunny launch her new greenhouse business in Blue Hollow Falls. Not only does it give her a chance to visit the quaint location, but it's a welcome distraction from Stevie's recent bad luck with men. Just one since Sunny's home is under renovation, Stevie must stay at the local inn, whose amenities feature hunky innkeeper, Noah Tyler.

Noah may be as tempting as her grandmother's famous sweet potato pie, but city-girl Stevie isn't sticking around—and she doesn't do flings. Yet when Noah's chef gets stranded in a Christmas Eve snowstorm, Stevie can't resist pitching in and serving up some of her family's favorite recipes. The magic of a Blue Ridge Christmas is already rekindling Stevie's holiday spirit and making her wonder what else she might...

Review:

Seen this one too on the library app and I realized...I want more Xmas joy. July has been kicking my ass. 

Here we follow Stevie. She is happy to help out her friend launch her new greenhouse business. Not only will this give Stevie a chance to see a small town, but she needs the distraction from her cruddy dating life. Since her friend's house is under renovation, Stevie is forced to stay at the local inn. Noah is the inkeeper and she can't keep her eyes to herself. When Noah's chef gets stranded because of a storm, Stevie steps up to help. 

Didn't realize it was part of a series, because again...I just dove into this without even reading the summary. It worked as a standalone though so I'm happy with that. 

This was cute and cozy and it made me want to go to that inn for Xmas!

Stevie was cute. 

Noah? *fans self*

I do wish this was longer. I wanted more time with the couple. Things happened quickly. 

I may have to go back and read book 1. That is Sunny's story I believe. 

All-in-all, this was cute and cozy and Christmas-y. It was nice. I feel like this would've done well as a full length story. I wanted more of Stevie and Noah. I'll give this 4 stars. 

 

Favorite Character(s): Noah

Least Favorite Character(s): no one I can think of deserved this title. 

 Challenge(s):

- Library Love #17

2-in-1 Book review: Trick Shot and Puck Shy by Kayla Grosse

Author: Kayla Grosse

Title: Trick Shot

Series: Brother Puckers #1

Genre: LGBT, Romance, Novella

Format: ebook

Pages: 189

Published: November 1, 2023

Where I got It: My shelf (Amazon)

Summary: 

Leo McKnight, an identical twin to a famous hockey player, finds himself caught up in a case of mistaken identity on Christmas Eve.

When Leo unexpectedly bumps into the captivating Riley at the airport, he's both amused and intrigued by her assumption that he's his renowned brother. Embracing his mischievous side, Leo decides to play along, relishing in their flirty banter and clever exchanges.

But as fate would have it, their flight gets canceled, and Leo seizes the opportunity to spend more time with Riley. With a devilish glint in his eye, he invites her to spend the night at his penthouse. With an intriguing woman, his best friend Jace, and a whole night of possibilities ahead of them, Leo has all the ingredients for what promises to be a memorable Christmas Eve.

Review:

Who doesn't want a nice smutty Xmas story in June? Stumbled upon this while looking for something else and it seemed like a nice quick read. 

Leo finds himself being mistaken for his twin brother who is a famous hockey player. It happens enough, but he doesn't correct Riley because there is something about her and he wants to take her home. The further they go the harder it is to tell her the truth even though his partner, Jace, knows it is not a good idea to keep it from her. Things escalate and they will spend a holly, jolly Christmas with each other. Sometimes miracles happen. 

This was 90% smut and 10% story. Which was fine, but man...I think I needed another 10% to really enjoy it. Yes, I enjoyed the smut but I think I needed more talking especially after the reveal. No spoiler here but YOU KNOW it comes out eventually. Love an insta-love, but this needed more. 

Jace is a sweet bean. 

Leo was nice, but dumb dumb. 

Riley was an angel. 

Very smutty...very Christmas-y. Fun, but I needed just a smidge more story. 

3 stars. 

Favorite Character(s): Jace

Least Favorite Character(s): CHAD

 Challenge(s):

- Romance Reading #18 (LGBT)

Author: Kayla Grosse

Title: Puck Shy

Series: Brother Puckers #2

Genre: LGBT, Romance, Novella

Format: ebook

Pages: 206

Published: January 1, 2024

Where I got It: My shelf (Amazon)

Summary: 

LUCAS MCKNIGHT, is the center for the Seattle Stormbreakers hockey team, and a famous actor. You’d think his life would be made, but he’s going through a dry spell—in more ways than one.

One of his teammates is tired of watching Lucas suffer, and with a little convincing, entices him to attend a masked Valentine’s Day party for a night of distraction. Little does he know; this night will change the game.

Lucas meets a mysterious woman in a red mask, and their chemistry is both instant and undeniable. After one little taste of the lady in red, his dry spell is broken, and after a fresh win on the ice, Lucas wants more. He’ll stop at nothing to find her.

Only, he doesn’t have to look far. It turns out the woman behind the mask, is STEVIE HARPER. As in, the sister of his twin brother’s partner. Future sister-in-law or not, Lucas isn’t giving up that easily.

Determined to keep Stevie close, Lucas offers her a job, hoping to explore what’s between them. Stevie agrees but insists on a platonic arrangement, she doesn’t mix business with pleasure. Only, their pact to remain professional quickly becomes a complicated dance, as they skate the blurred lines between friendship and something more.

When it comes to the game of love… there’s more than meets the ice.

Review:

Okay - I had to read book 2 because I wanted to see more. We get to see our throple make an appearance here and there. PLUS Leo's brother is going to find love too? Yayyyyy.

Here we follow Stevie and Lucas. Stevie is Riley's sister and Lucas is Leo's twin. They meet at a masked Valetine's Day sex party. It is love and lust at the same time. They share an incredible night but it was one single night....but then they run into each other and realize who each other is. Stevie doesn't do relationships especially not with her boss. So when he offers her a job there can be nothing more than friendship. 

NOW this was fun. I feel like this had the perfect blend of story and smut. Still EXTREMELY SMUTTY but a story I can get behind. They get to know each other for a bit before they explore more and I was here for it. 

It was so nice seeing the gang from the last book and seeing them out and interacting. Loved seeing them with their HEA. It made me appreciate this one even more. 

But yes, this was a nice quick read. 4 stars from me. 

Favorite Character(s): Lucas *fans self*

Least Favorite Character(s): mmmmmm no one. 

Book Review: The One That Got Away by Mike Gayle

Author: Mike Gayle

Title: The One That Got Away

Genre: Romance, Novella, Short Story

Format: ebook

Pages: 100

Published: May 1, 2025

Where I got It: My shelf (Amazon) 

Summary: 

Reuben thought he’d spend the rest of his life with Beth, until she broke his heart six months ago. He’s not even remotely over her, so he’s devastated to hear she’s getting married—this weekend.

Now he’s faced with the ultimate what should he do on the day of the wedding? Grieve? Disrupt the ceremony? Or do everything in his power to pretend it’s not happening?

Enlisting the help of his friends, Reuben is all set to mark the occasion with distraction on a grand Ferraris, champagne, and a VIP box at the races.

But on the morning of the Big Day, Reuben gets a phone call that not only derails his elaborate it may well change his life completely…

Review:

This was a freebie and I love a good freebie. 

Here we follow Reuben who was in love with Beth but she broke up with him. He's not over her so his heart breaks again after he hears she is getting married...this weekend. His friends spirit him away to get his mind off it, but things get murky when Reuben receives a phone call that could change everything. 

My favorite part of this story was the ending when everyone grows the heck up. 

LOTS of spoilers heading your way.

Reuben and Beth are so unlikeable. *spoiler starts* Beth doesn't believe in love and Reuben does...but they stay together. Reuben does a bad thing and Beth breaks up with him. 6 months later she is marrying another man AND now is calling Reuben to save her? ......He drops his friends like a bag of rotten potatoes and goes and saves her and helps her escape her wedding. They fight. They kiss. Beth gets a call that her intended, Leo, has now run away and she is suddenly in love with him and wants Leo back? Reuben agrees to track him down. They work it out and Reuben goes to the wedding. Sure he finds love there, but WHAT.ON.EARTH. *spoiler ends* 

Don't get me twisted I did enjoy the drama but holy hannah did I want to smack everyone. Minus Pete...he seemed like a cool guy. Everyone grow up please. I think I could've been more forgiving of Beth if her dawn of realization was done a little differently. It just seemed selfish. She was so selfish the whole time. She had no character growth. Reuben took a minute, but he did grow as a character so I'll tip my hat to him. Boo to Beth!

I'm glad the author made this nice and short. 

All-in-all....this was drama-filled with some characters that you will want to shake. 

I'll give this 2 stars. 

Favorite Character(s): Pete

Least Favorite Character(s): Beth and Reuben

 

Audiobook Review: A Chance Inheritance by Carolyn Brown

Author: Carolyn Brown

Narrator: Brittany Pressley

Title: A Chance Inheritance

Genre: Chick lit, Novella, Short Story

Format: Audiobook

Published: March 1, 2021

Where I got It: My shelf (Audible)

Summary: 

What do a runaway bride, a free spirit, and a corporate exec have in common? Besides all being down on their luck, Lainie, Jodi, and Becky are Lizzie Cornell's granddaughters. Upon inheriting their grandmother's home and family bait shop, the three cousins return to Catfish, Texas, grieving Lizzie's passing and hoping to find the fresh start they all need. 

Turns out cohabitating together and running the Catfish Fisherman's Hut isn't at all like the idyllic summers they spent as children on the banks of the Red River. The days are long and hot, the tourists demanding and rude. And then there's Chris, a local river guide who seems to have eyes only for Becky. 

But Lizzie's death has set in motion a chain of events that will cause a new generation of Cornell women to come together. And thanks to this chance inheritance, some local fishermen, and the love of their Granny Lizzie, the Cornell cousins discover that sometimes an ending is really the beginning of a brand-new happily ever after.

Review:

Weeee love a good freebie and I like Carolyn Brown!

Here we have three cousins who have little in common, but they are brought back together after the death of their grandma. They have inherited everything and this might just be the fresh start they all need. 

This was a very sweet and lovely short. There is a sprinkle of romance, but that wasn't the focus. The focus are on these three girls who are trying to find the right fit in the world. I loved seeing them WANT to stay and keep their granny's legacy alive. 

I do wish we got some sort of epilogue though. I can bet and imagine what happens, but I would've liked to see more especially since this is not part of a series. I'm sure they will all find love and have babies that will keep the legacy alive for another generation. That is my hope at least. 

This pulled at my heart strings for though since my grandmother passed a few months ago. I wish I could have this reconnection with some of my cousins. It brought them closer together and I loved that. 

I've listened to the narrator in the past so it was lovely hearing her again. She does such a good job. 

All-in-all, this was very sweet and quick. I do think we needed a page or two more as a final conclusion since there are no more books. Other than that, I adored this. I'll give it 4 stars. 

- Favorite Character(s): All the cousins and Chris

- Least Favorite Character(s): The ex

 Challenge(s):

- Audiobook #25

Audiobook Review: One of Those Flings by Lauren Blakely

Author: Lauren Blakely

Narrator: Full cast

Title: One of Those Flings

Genre: Contemporary Romance, Novella, Short story, Humor

Format: Audiobook

Published: August 31, 2020

Where I got It: Audible

Summary: 

Skyler’s breakup survival plan is simple: Swear off men for a year and celebrate her man cleanse with a solo tropical vacation to Hawaii. Snorkeling, sightseeing, zip lining, and leisurely dinners by the sea are just what the doctor ordered to mend her broken heart.

That is, until she meets a hunky adventure tour guide who makes her want to break all her own rules. Handsome, funny, and exciting, Caleb is by far the hottest local attraction. Will a romantic island fling lead to more heartbreak - or a new beginning?

Review:

Weee! Short story!

Here we follow Caleb and Skyler. They both survived a bad break-up and refuse to date for a while. Skyler decides to take a nice vacation to celebrate her 1 year of single-hood. That is.....until she meets Caleb. Caleb is a tour guide and lives life by the rules. 

So this was a full cast of narrators. It is more like a movie that you can't see and it worked well. Simple and fun. 

It was really short and it was fine. I did want more of an epilogue but it is what it is. 

Cute couple. Fun local. And some humor sprinkled in. It was a nice short. 

Thank you Blodeuedd for the recommendation ;) It was fun. 

3 stars. 

- Favorite Character(s): Skyler and Caleb

- Least Favorite Character(s): no one. 

 

 Challenge(s):

- Audiobook #23

Audiobook Review: Sugar Cookies and Sirens by Danielle Garrett

Author: Danielle Garrett

Narrator: Amanda Ronconi

Title: Sugar Cookies and Sirens

Series: Sugar Shack Witch Mysteries #2.5

Genre: Paranormal, Mystery, Cozy Mystery, Novella, Fantasy

Format: Audiobook

Published:  September 1, 2024

Where I got It: Audible

Summary: 

The witch who can talk to animals meets the witch with a talking cat. What could go wrong? It’s Valentine’s Day in Winterspell, but not everyone appears to be feeling the love. And no, I’m not talking about my date-less self.

Instead of being wooed by candlelight, I’m working in a candle shop. Cora Hearth, Winterspell’s magical chandler, has teamed up with Sugar Shack to create party favors for the lucky couples, and they’re counting on us to spark some magic for their special night.

So, when a thief breaks into my delivery van and swipes the goodies, Cora and I—and her persnickety talking cat—have to join forces to track down the culprit in time to save Valentine’s Day.

Review:

I'm loving this series so much. It's such a fun town and world. 

It is Valentine's day at the Sugar Shake and Winterspell. Love is in the air and our girl is...alone. Her boyfriend is off on a mission and probably won't make it home in time to celebrate. It's okay...she has her work. Sugar Shake and Cora Hearth have teamed up to create party favors for couples. However, things go sideways when a thief breaks into the delivery van and swipes the goodies. It will be up to Ella, Cora, and Cora's cat familiar to find the thief to save Valentine's Day!

This was a cute little number. So much fun. Again....I'm really loving this world the author created. There is another series set in this same town that I need to dive into eventually. Such a vibe and I'm here for it!!!

The mystery was entertaining. At some point it dawned on me and I figured it out. It was a bit on the nose. I won't spoil which moment made the light bulb go off for me. It was a little easy, but still fun to watch unravel. And do I dare say........ it was kinda cute?

I missed Ella's beau but I was excited to see Ella maybe make a new friend. I hope Cora shows up in the future! She and her cat familiar were a gem and so much fun. Honestly, there seems to be some more backstory with these two. Curious to learn more. The name does sound familiar. Maybe Cora was in that Xmas short I read a while back? Who knows lol. 

The narrator is one of my favorites ever. Love, love, LOVE her voices. Always fun, always a blast. 

In the end, this was short but very sweet and nice. 4 stars. The mystery was a little on the nose, but I still enjoyed it immensely.  

- Favorite Character(s): Ella and Cora

- Least Favorite Character(s): mmmmmmmm no one I guess

 Challenge(s):

- Audiobook #18

- Cloak and Dagger #8

Audiobook Review: The Scandalous, Dissolute, No-Good Mr. Wright by Tessa Dare

Author: Tessa Dare

Narrator: Carolyn Morris

Title: The Scandalous, Dissolute, No-Good Mr. Wright

Genre: Historical Romance, Short story, Novella

Format: Audiobook

Published:  December 11, 2012

Where I got It: Borrowed from library

Summary: 

Miss Eliza Cade is a lady in waiting. And waiting.

Because of a foolish mistake in her youth, she's not allowed "out" in Society until her three older sisters are wed. But while she's trying to be good, she keeps bumping elbows—and, more distressingly, lips—with notorious rake Harry Wright. Every moment she spends with him, she risks complete ruin.

The sensual passions he stirs in her are so wrong . . . but Eliza just can't resist Mr. Wright.

Review:

After a string of not great books...I turned to a Dare story because Dare has never let me down so far. 

Eliza is always waiting. Waiting....and waiting. Due to a foolish mistake in her youth, she is not allowed to take her turn in Society until her three older sisters are wed so as long as she behaves. While she is trying to stay good, she keeps running into Harry Wright who is a rake. She hates him. She must stay away...but she can't resist. 

This was a fun little number. I loved watching their journey over a few years. Yes, years. They obviously are perfect for each other, but she is not allowed out in Society even though she is of age until her sisters are married off. Which! Was utter BS in my opinion. >_> Poor thing. 

Harry is a rake and scoundrel who, on the surface, hasn't done a good thing in his life. I loved that there is more underneath it all and he actually has a heart of gold. Sure he has done some wicked things, but he is sweet to those he actually cares about. What a sweet, but devilish man. 

Yes, Dare has saved me again. Loved this and the length was perfect. No spoiler, because it is a romance, but everyone is happy and in love. Very sweet! That ending was pure perfection. 

Oh! Nearly forgot....the narrator did wonderful. I've listened to her voice before so I was extremely happy to hear her narrate a Dare experience. 

5 stars. Perfect in every way. 

- Favorite Character(s): Eliza and Harry

- Least Favorite Character(s): Eliza's parents

 Challenge(s):

- Audiobook #15

- Library love #7

Audiobook Review: Grimoires and Gingerbread by Danielle Garrett

Author: Danielle Garrett

Narrator: Amanda Ronconi

Title: Grimoires and Gingerbread

Series: Sugar Shack Witch Mysteries #1.5

Genre: Fantasy, Cozy Mystery, Paranormal, Novella

Format: Audiobook

Published:  December 4, 2020

Where I got It: Audible

Summary: 

Christmas in Winterspell means ice skating, hot cocoa by the barrel, and frosted gingerbread houses.

I was almost looking forward to it.

The merriment screeches to a halt when two elves show up, claiming to have been sent by Santa himself, on a mission to track down an ancient grimoire.

A grimoire with the power of Christmas itself woven through the pages. Without it, Christmas isn’t happening, and Santa himself is in grave danger.

Could Winterspell hold the key to saving Christmas?

Review:

Uhoh. I'm becoming addicted to this series. OooooOooo. 

It is Christmas time in Winterspell! That means ice skating, hot cocoa, cookies, gingerbread houses, and a mystery? Things go wrong and Ella is brought in to help find Santa's ancient grimoire that was stolen. Without it...Christmas won't happen. 

This series is getting under my skin and I'm loving it. I already have book 2 downloaded and ready to go. The town is fun even with some of the a-holes who are scared of Ella and her powers. I'm loving our main characters. I'm loving the mysteries. 

This was a nice short. It COULD be a standalone, but I highly advise reading book 1 first. 

Nice and short with a cool resolution at the end. It made me miss Christmas!

The narrator is the same as the first book and I'm a happy gal! Love her voices. 

All-in-all, I def recommend this and book 1. 

5 stars from me. 

- Favorite Character(s): Ella, Orion

- Least Favorite Character(s): The baddie and some of the townfolk. 

 Challenge(s):

- Audiobook #9

- Cloak & Dagger #4

Audiobook Review: Lord Dashwood Missed Out by Tessa Dare

Author: Tessa Dare

Narrator: Eva Kaminsky

Title: Lord Dashwood Missed Out

Series: Spindle Cove #4.5

Genre: Historical Romance, Novella

Format: Audiobook

Published:  December 8, 2015

Where I got It: Borrowed from library

Summary: 

A snowstorm hath no fury like a spinster scorned!

Miss Elinora Browning grew up yearning for the handsome, intelligent lord-next-door…but he left England without a word of farewell. One night, inspired by a bit too much sherry, Nora poured out her heartbreak on paper. Lord Dashwood Missed Out was a love letter to every young lady who’d been overlooked by gentlemen—and an instant bestseller. Now she’s on her way to speak in Spindle Cove when snowy weather delays her coach. She’s forced to wait out the storm with the worst possible companion: Lord Dashwood himself.

And he finally seems to have noticed her.

George Travers, Lord Dashwood, has traveled the globe as a cartographer. He returned to England with the goal of marrying and creating an heir--only to find his reputation shredded by an audacious, vexingly attractive bluestocking and her poison pen. Lord Dashwood Missed Out, his arse. Since Nora Browning seems to believe he overlooked the passion of a lifetime, Dash challenges her to prove it.

She has one night.

Review:

Another Dare? Yes please!

Here we have Nora who had her heart broken by Lord Dashwood. She had thought they were at least friends, but he took off without even a goodbye. After a little bit too much to drink she spilled her heart out on paper. That piece became a love letter and a best seller to every young lady who’d been overlooked by gentlemen. George Travers, Lord Dashwood, has traveled the world as a cartographer. One his return to England to take his responsibilities and find a wife...realizes that his reputation was ruined by this piece of literature. On her way to Spindle Cove to do a reading, the two find themselves forced together to hide from bad weather. He challenges Nora to prove that he had missed out. 

Bad weather, hurt feelings, and a passion they can't deny any longer??? Sign me up. This was bound to be fun. 

They talked a lot and I appreciated it. There was a lot to wade through. Lots of past to untangle between these two. They were both young and dumb. I'm glad they were forced together to talk. This leads to passion. They were meant for each other but it took years and a whole cold night for them to figure it out. 

There is the classic humor, but it didn't overtake the story. Dare is so good at that! 

I was amused with the side characters running around trying to find Nora, but I did feel that we spent a little too much time with them. Yes, yes, I love them but I wanted more of Nora and George. Maybe dig more into their relationship as kids or more steamy scenes would've been fun. 

The narrator did a good job. I enjoyed her voices for both genders. 

All-in-all, I enjoyed this. It was fun and a classic Dare. I do wish we had a little less of the side characters and their shenanigans. Don't get me wrong....I enjoyed their bits, but I felt like it was too much. I wanted more time with Nora and George weeding through and finding their love. At the end, I will stamp this with 4 stars.  

- Favorite Character(s): Nora & George

- Least Favorite Character(s): The thugs I guess?

 Challenge(s):

- Audiobook #5

- Library Love #3

Book Review: Once Upon a Winter's Eve by Tessa Dare

Author: Tessa Dare

Title: Once Upon a Winter's Eve

Series: Spindle Cove #1.5

Genre: Historical Romance, Novella

Format: ebook

Published:  November 15, 2011

Where I got It: My shelf (Amazon)

Summary: 

Some wallflowers bloom at night...

A Spindle Cove Novella

Violet Winterbottom is a quiet girl. She speaks six languages, but seldom raises her voice. She endured bitter heartbreak in perfect silence. The gentlemen aren't beating down her door.

Until the night of the Spindle Cove Christmas ball, when a mysterious stranger crashes into the ballroom and collapses at Violet's feet. His coarse attire and near-criminal good looks would put any sensible young lady on her guard. He's wet, chilled, bleeding, and speaking in an unfamiliar tongue.

Only Violet understands him. And she knows he's not what he seems.

She has one night to draw forth the secrets of this dangerously handsome rogue. Is he a smuggler? A fugitive? An enemy spy? She needs answers by sunrise, but her captive would rather seduce than confess. To learn his secrets, Violet must reveal hers—and open herself to adventure, passion, and the unthinkable... Love.

Warning: The heroine packs a pistol, the hero curses in multiple languages, and together they steam up a cold winter’s night.

Review:

This was free on Amazon so I grabbed it! Last time I read this was last year and I had borrowed it from the library. I enjoyed this one so much last time and I'm a book goblin so I wanted it for my shelf. 

Violet had a terrible heartbreak and she is licking her wounds at the Spindle Cove. She is enjoying her quiet life until a mysterious stranger crashes into the ballroom and collapses at her feet. She is the only who speaks his language so she is recruited to get info out of him. He isn't what he seems and she will get the answers out of him one way or another. 

Weeeee love Dare! And I really have been enjoying this series. I think I only have a book or two left and I'm sad to say goodbye to the Spindle Cove!

Love Violet. She deserves all the happiness in the world. She is too sweet for her own good. 

I hope to see more of this couple, but I doubt it. I would love to see more of their love flourish. 

All-in-all, I still adored this little short. I'll keep my original rating of 5 stars. 

- Favorite Character(s): Violet

- Least Favorite Character(s): no one

 

2-in-1 Short Story Reviews: Billionaire for Christmas & Home for Christmas

Author: Laurie Baxter

Title: Billionaire for Christmas

Series: Sweet & Swoonworthy Billionaire Rom-Coms #0.5

Genre: Contemporary Romance, Novella, Short Stories

Format: ebook

Pages: 52

Published: November 1, 2023

Where I Got It: My shelf (Amazon)

Summary: 

A brilliant billionaire boss. A crush she can’t shake. A Christmas she’ll never forget.

Ivy Steadman is not in love with her boss. Because first of all, technically speaking, she’s an independent contractor, so he’s not her boss. And second of all, she’s way too professional to fall for someone she works with. Someone it’s her job to sell to the public. Someone who only thinks of her as a colleague, or, at best, a friend. Only a fool would fall for their own marketing like that.

Alec Ames is completely in love with his PR Specialist. He’s tried to keep it professional, but there’s no denying the chemistry between him and Ivy. He thinks she just might feel the same way. There’s really only one way to find out.

His plan? Sweep her off her feet at the big holiday party he’s throwing for all the employees. He’s got the perfect night planned, from the lush and elegant Christmas decor to the string quartet ready with her favorite holiday song. What could possibly go wrong?

Review:

Love Xmas shorts. I just don't have time for super long ones during the holiday season. Eeee.

Ivy is trying to not crush on her boss. Alec also is fighting his feelings for his PR specialist. He's tried to keep it professional, but alas...the chemistry is too much. His plan is to sweep her off her feet at the big holiday party he's throwing for all the employees. What could go wrong?

Cringe, but a cute cringe. Does that make sense? LOL the chemistry was there but man....................all around awkward. I get that Alec wanted to impress her, but at the Christmas Party? Weird. 

But they are cute and perfect together. I'm curious to see what is in store for them. I don't think book 1 is about them, but I'm sure we'll see them around and the backlash. 

Cute and slightly awkward. Nice quickie read for the holiday. 

3 stars. 

ONE WORD SUMMARY: Adorkable

Author: Carol Burnside

Title: Home for Christmas

Genre: Contemporary Romance, Novella, Short Stories

Format: ebook

Pages: 36

Published: November 26, 2013

Where I Got It: My shelf (Amazon)

Summary: 

Joseph and Danni were college friends who abandoned their relationship after a flash-hot affair one Christmas weekend. When their paths cross again on another snowy Christmas Eve, fate gives them a rare second chance. Can they push beyond past hurt and finally find a home with each other for Christmas?

Review:

Another short one! 

Joseph and Dannie were college friends who abandoned their relationship after a couple of nights together. One Christmas Eve, fate gives them a second chance to fight through the hurt and finally be together. 

I needed this to be longer. I wanted to maybe see them when they were friends and then fall for each other and then fall apart. I think I would've appreciated them a touch more. I just didn't see it. 

In all honesty....they need therapy before getting back together. They have a LOT of issues.

Lots of talking in this one. I would've loved to see more kissing or something. Eh. It was a nice baseline, but I think this really needed more meat and flesh. 

2 stars from me. 

ONE WORD SUMMARY: Lackluster