BLOG TOUR: Something Whiskered by Miranda James

 I'm excited to be a part of the Blog Tour for Something Whiskered by Miranda James! I received a free electronic copy from the publisher for an honest review. Thanks so much to Berkley and Miranda James for letting me be a part of this fun tour.

 

 

 

 

Title: Something Whiskered (Cat in the Stacks #17)

Author: Miranda James

Published by: Berkley

Released: July 29, 2025

Source: Electronic Review Copy Provided by Publisher

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Synopsis: A dead baron, an Irish castle, and an unexpected ghost . . . Charlie Harris, Helen Louise Brady, and their feline friend Diesel find themselves hot on the trail of a conniving killer in this delightful Cat in the Stacks Mystery from New York Times bestselling author Miranda James.

Charlie Harris and his wife, Helen Louise Brady, have arrived in Ireland for their honeymoon. After a few days in Dublin, they head to County Clare, ancestral home to Helen Louise’s extended family, the O’Bradys. Her cousin Lorcan runs Castle O’Brady as a bed-and-breakfast with his wife Caoimhe and their daughter and son-in-law. But upon arrival at the castle, the newlyweds are shocked to see a body falling from the roof.

The dead man is centenarian Finn, Baron O'Brady, Lorcan’s grandfather, which means that Lorcan now becomes the new Baron O'Brady. Was someone in a hurry for Lorcan to assume the title and ownership of the estate? Or is there another reason for wanting Finn dead? And why is a ghostly cat making an appearance in their room-is he trying to warn them? Charlie and Helen Louise must answer these questions and more as they realize the local garda can't solve the crime alone. And along with Diesel they will have to investigate themselves or risk something wicked coming their way…

 

 

My Thoughts: I love a cozy mystery and I had a lot of fun reading this one! It is number 17 in a series, and I definitely haven't read them all. I wasn't lost jumping in in the middle though.

I really enjoyed the setting of an Irish Castle.

The mystery was a lot of fun to solve. I'm never good at guessing things, so I just had fun during the ride.

I would definitely read more from this series. I like the cat! If you're a fan of cozies, give this one a read!  

 

Thanks so much for checking out my Blog Tour Stop for Something Whiskered by Miranda James. Thank you to Berkley and Miranda James for letting me be a part of the tour. Cozy fans should pick this one up.

BLOG TOUR: Maid for Each Other by Lynn Painter

 I'm excited to be a part of the Blog Tour for Maid for Each Other by Lynn Painter! I received a free electronic copy for an honest review from the publisher. Thanks so much to Berkley and Lynn Painter for letting me be a part of this tour! 

It's out TODAY.

Title: Maid for Each Other

Author: Lynn Painter

Published by: Berkley

Released: July 15, 2025

Source: Electronic Review Copy Provided by Publisher

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Synopsis: A millionaire and a house cleaner are a match maid in heaven in this sparkling new romantic comedy by Lynn Painter, #1 New York Times bestselling author of Happily Never After.

As a professional cleaner, Abi Mariano never thought her apartment would have any sort of infestation, but because of a building-wide outbreak, she now needs somewhere to stay for a week. As a part-time student with two jobs, she doesn’t have many options. Then the solution presents itself: the owner of the penthouse she cleans is out of town for the week. She normally wouldn’t consider it, but he’s literally never around (she hasn’t even met him). It goes great…until one morning she finds two strangers in the kitchen. They’re the parents of the penthouse owner and they seem to think they’ve heard all about Abi—not as their son’s maid, but as his girlfriend.

Declan Powell has always put his career first, working his way up to become an executive at his company, but he still has his sights set on the next level. When his parents mention that they met his girlfriend, “Abby,” he all but chokes on his escargot. As wonderful as it sounds that she was just darling, he doesn’t actually have a girlfriend—he made her up to get everyone off his back. When Dex finds out who Abi really is, he makes her a proposition: pretend to date him, and he’ll provide everything she needs during their little arrangement. What harm would it do? It’s purely business, no pleasure…right? (Synopsis from Goodreads)

My Thoughts: I knew I wanted to read this one as soon as I read the synopsis. It all just sounded so cute with tropes that I enjoy.

This was very cute and fun! It captured the rom-com heart perfectly.

I really enjoyed our characters of Abi and Declan, and it was very sweet watching their romance grow.

I love fake relationships and forced proximity, so this delivered.

This is the perfect read for a summer vacation.

Thanks so much for checking out my Blog Tour Stop for Maid for Each Other by Lynn Painter. Thank you to Berkley and Lynn Painter for letting me be a part of the tour! If you're looking for something cute to read, pick this one up quick!

BLOG TOUR: Murder, She Wrote: A Body in Boston by Jessica Fletcher and Terrie Farley Moran

 I'm excited to be a part of the Blog Tour for Murder, She Wrote: A Body in Boston by Jessica Fletcher and Terrie Farley Moran! I received a free electronic copy for an honest review from the publisher. Thanks so much to Berkley and the authors for letting me be a part of this tour!

Title: Murder, She Wrote: A Body in Boston

Authors: Jessica Fletcher and Terrie Farley Moran

Published by: Berkley

Released: July 1, 2025

Source: Electronic Review Copy Provided by Publisher

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Synopsis: Jessica Fletcher has dinner with her old pal Harry McGraw and gets pulled into a puzzling murder case.

Invited to deliver a lecture at the Boston Public Library, Jessica Fletcher excitedly makes plans to see local friends. Naturally that includes dinner at Gilhooley’s with PI Harry McGraw. Harry excitedly talks about his latest client, the CEO of Cure All Pharmaceuticals, who’s received anonymous blackmail demands and wants Harry to identify the culprit. Cookie, Gilhooley’s longtime bartender, also has something he wants to tell he asked Harry to investigate his daughter Aileen’s boyfriend, who Cookie thinks is too slick by half, but now Harry is too wrapped up in this new case. While Jessica wonders how best to approach Aileen, the young woman stumbles into Gilhooley’s covered in blood. She just discovered her boyfriend’s corpse -- and quickly becomes the chief suspect in his murder! (Synopsis from Goodreads)

My Thoughts: This was fun! I could see a lot of people enjoying this, whether they are fans of Murder, She Wrote or not. This was the perfect book for summer reading.

The writing was really easy to lose myself in and I had a fun time trying to solve the mystery. I also loved all the characters.

Jessica Fletcher (born Jessica Beatrice MacGill, and writes under the initialed J.B. Fletcher) is a fictional character from the US television series Murder, She Wrote.

In keeping with the spirit of the TV show, a series of official original novels have been written by American ghostwriter Donald Bain and published by the New American Library. The author credit for the novels is shared with the fictitious "Jessica Fletcher." When the first novel in the series, Gin and Daggers, was published in 1989 it included several inaccuracies to the TV series including Jessica driving a car which she could not do as she never learned to drive. Due to fans pointing out the errors, the novel was republished in 2000 with most of the inaccuracies corrected.

Thanks so much for checking out my Blog Tour Stop for Murder, She Wrote: A Body in Boston by Jessica Fletcher and Terrie Farley Moran. Thank you to Berkley and the authors for letting me be a part of the tour! Murder mysteries are a must during the summer!

BLOG TOUR: Never Been Shipped by Alicia Thompson

 I'm excited to be a part of the Blog Tour for Never Been Shipped by Alicia Thompson! I received a free electronic copy for an honest review from the publisher. Thanks so much to Berkley and Alicia Thompson for letting me be a part of the tour!

Title: Never Been Shipped

Author: Alicia Thompson

Published by: Berkley

Released: June 10, 2025

Source: Electronic Review Copy Provided by Publisher

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Synopsis: A band reunion may be enough to change two musicians' tune on love in this electric romance from USA Today bestselling author Alicia Thompson.

 Micah's relationship to music is complicated. As teenagers, her band took off after being featured on a popular TV show, but the group barely released their sophomore album before breaking up. Now, over a decade later, the band is reuniting for one more performance on a themed cruise, and Micah is determined to learn from her past mistakes -- no losing herself in the music, and no losing her heart along the way. 

 John misses playing in a band, and mostly he misses Micah, who'd been his best friend until the music stopped. Back then, he didn't take the lead, either in his guitar parts or while he sat back and watched her date another bandmate. John's never been one to rock the boat, but he's faced with another chance now that this cruise has brought music -- and Micah -- back in his life.

 Onboard, Micah can't help but see John with brand new eyes, and John's feelings only intensify as the discordant band's tension grows to a breaking point. With five days at sea, there's a ticking clock on anything that might develop between them, and they'll have to decide if their relationship is destined to be more than a one-hit wonder. (Synopsis from Goodreads)

My Thoughts: I really enjoyed reading this one. I loved this story of two musicians falling for each other. I also loved having this set on a cruise ship.

This was just a fun read. The romance was definitely a slow burn, so you have to have some patience. Some of the characters maybe didn't always make the best decisions.

This is perfect summer reading material.

Alicia Thompson is a writer, reader, and Paramore superfan. As a teen, she appeared in an episode of 48 Hours in the audience of a local murder trial, where she broke the fourth wall by looking directly into the camera. She currently lives in Florida with her husband and two children.

Thanks so much for checking out my Blog Tour Stop for Never Been Shipped by Alicia Thompson! Thank you to Berkley and Alicia Thompson for letting me be a part of the tour. It's out now!

BLOG TOUR: Ride With Me by Simone Soltani

 I'm excited to be a part of the Blog Tour for Ride With Me by Simone Soltani! I received a free electronic copy for review from the publisher. Thanks so much to Berkley and Simone Soltani for letting me be a part of the tour!

 

 

 

 

Title: Ride With Me (Lights Out #2)

Author: Simone Soltani

Published by: Berkley

Released: May 20, 2025

Source: Electronic Review Copy Provided by the Publisher

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Synopsis: A marriage of convenience threatens to go off track in this steamy Formula 1 romance from the USA Today bestselling author of Cross the Line.

Stella Baldwin thought her life couldn’t get worse. Being left at the altar was bad enough, and the drunken rant she posted to her social media followers in the aftermath was the cherry on top. But having to show up at her cousin’s bachelorette party in Las Vegas barely two weeks later feels like a cruel joke.

Thomas Maxwell-Brown is just looking for a good time. With his family’s expectations pressing down, his career as a Formula 1 driver threatened by fresh talent, and a new reputation as the most hated man on the grid, he needs a break to clear his head. And what better way to decompress than with a stag party in Vegas?

Stella isn’t the woman Thomas expects to meet that night. And Thomas isn’t the man Stella expects to wake up next to in the morning—with a ring on her finger. Staying married might be the perfect solution to all their problems, even if it is a little wild. Sometimes, what happens in Vegas doesn’t need to stay there. . . . (Synopsis from Goodreads)

 

 

My Thoughts: I love a marriage of convenience trope! This one is a Vegas made me do it, but they stay married because it helps them both out.

I really enjoyed this one! I liked both of our characters of Stella and Thomas. I also really enjoyed the Formula 1 backdrop.

This book was a little on the longer side for a romance, but I wasn't mad about it.

I will definitely read more from Simone Soltani in the future. 

Thanks so much for checking out my Blog Tour Stop for Ride With Me by Simone Soltani! Thank you to Berkley and Simone Soltani for letting me be a part of the tour. This is definitely one to check out.

BLOG TOUR: Hounding A Killer by Kallie E. Benjamin

 I'm back!! And with a Blog Tour for Hounding A Killer by Kallie E. Benjamin! I received a free electronic copy for an honest review from the publisher. Thanks so much to Berkley and Kallie E. Benjamin for letting me be a part of the tour!

 

 

Title: Hounding A Killer (Bailey the Bloodhound Mystery #2)

Author: Kallie E. Benjamin

Published by: Berkley

Released: May 6, 2025

Source: Electronic Review Copy Provided by Publisher

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Synopsis: It’s chaos in Crosbyville when someone tries to swindle a large inheritance, but as Pris and Bailey start digging for the missing money, they uncover the wrong kind of bones….

Finally finished with the renovations on her new house, bestselling children’s book author Pris and her trusty bloodhound, Bailey, are finding more opportunities to join the community, including attending the annual town festival. But their efforts are paw-sed when David Townsend, volatile grandson of the late wealthy resident Edward Townsend, comes to fetch his inheritance.

After the new arrival riles up several other locals with petty arguments, the once sleepy town goes barking mad. Before long, the wealthy bachelor disappears without a trace, and the police suspect foul play. Bailey’s tracking instincts helped them collar the last criminal in Crosbyville, so the cops turn to Pris and her sweet hound to track down David.

But on their search-and-rescue mission, Pris and Bailey sniff out fraud, theft, and a body. Before they know it, both are hackles-deep inside another homicide investigation. Can the unlikely duo chase down the killer, or will they be left chasing their own tails? (Synopsis from Goodreads)

 

My Thoughts: I always have fun reading cosy mysteries, and this one was no exception. I really enjoyed all the characters in this and I find it really cute that one of them is Bailey the Bloodhound. I also just enjoyed the feel of the town/setting.

I enjoyed seeing how Pris and Bailey solved the mystery.

I could definitely see myself reading more from this series. 

If you are a fan of cozies, then you should pick up this series and give it a go. 

Thanks so much for checking out my Blog Tour Stop for Hounding A Killer by Kallie E. Benjamin. Thanks so much to Berkley and Kallie E. Benjamin for giving me the chance to read and review it!

BLOG TOUR: Make the Season Bright by Ashley Herring Blake

 I'm excited to be a part of the Blog Tour for Make the Season Bright by Ashley Herring Blake! I received a free electronic copy for an honest review from the publisher. Thanks so much to Berkley and Ashley Herring Blake for letting me be a part of the tour!

 

Title: Make the Season Bright

Author: Ashley Herring Blake

Published by: Berkley

Released: October 1, 2024

Source: Electronic Review Copy Provided by Publisher

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Synopsis: Two exes find themselves stuck at the same house for Christmas in this holiday romance by Ashley Herring Blake, USA Today bestselling author of Iris Kelly Doesn't Date.

It's been five years since Charlotte Donovan was ditched at the altar by her ex-fiancée, and she’s doing more than okay. Sure, her single mother never checks in, but she has her strings ensemble, the Rosalind Quartet, and her life in New York is a dream come true. As the holidays draw near, her ensemble mate Sloane persuades Charlotte and the rest of the quartet to spend Christmas with her family in Colorado—it is much cozier and quieter than Manhattan, and it would guarantee more practice time for the quartet’s upcoming tour. But when Charlotte arrives, she discovers that Sloane’s sister Adele also brought a friend home—and that friend is none other than her ex, Brighton. All Brighton Fairbrook wanted was to have the holliest, jolliest Christmas—and try to forget that her band kicked her out. But instead, she’s stuck pretending like she and her ex are strangers—which proves to be difficult when Sloane and Adele’s mom signs them all up for a series of Christmas dating events. Charlotte and Brighton are soon entrenched in horseback riding and cookie decorating, but Charlotte still won’t talk to her. Brighton can hardly blame her after what she did. After a few days, however, things start to slip through. Memories. Music. The way they used to play together—Brighton on guitar, Charlotte on her violin—and it all feels painfully familiar. But it’s all in the past and nothing can melt the ice in their hearts...right? (Synopsis from Goodreads)

 

My Thoughts: This was cute and fun to pick up during the holiday season. It is a second chance romance mixed with forced proximity. I can see a lot of people enjoying this read during the holiday season.

I had a good time with it. I liked the musical aspect to the characters.

I enjoyed reading about both Brighton and Charlotte.

There were some cute scenes, some cozy scenes. I have no complaints.

 

 

 Ashley Herring Blake is an award-winning author. She holds a master’s degree in teaching and loves coffee, arranging her books by color, and cold weather. She is the author of romance novels, young adult novels, and middle grade novels. She’s also a coeditor on the young adult romance anthology Fools in Love. She lives on a very tiny island off the coast of Georgia with her family. 

 

Thanks so much for checking out my Blog Tour Stop for Make the Season Bright by Ashley Herring Blake! Thank you to Berkley and Ashley Herring Blake for letting me be a part of the tour. If you're looking for some holiday romance, give this one a shot!

BLOG TOUR: I Made It Out of Clay by Beth Kander

 I'm excited to be a part of the Blog Tour for I Made It Out of Clay by Beth Kander! I received a free electronic copy for an honest review from the publisher. Thanks so much to MIRA and Beth Kander for letting me be a part of the tour!

Title: I Made It Out of Clay

Author: Beth Kander

Published by: MIRA

Released: December 10, 2024

Source: Electronic Review Copy Provided by Publisher

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Synopsis: In this darkly funny and surprisingly sweet novel, a woman creates a golem in a desperate attempt to pretend her life is a romantic comedy rather than a disaster.

Nothing’s going well for Eve: She’s single, turning forty, stressed at work and anxious about a recent series of increasingly creepy incidents. Most devastatingly, her beloved father died last year, and her family still won’t acknowledge their sorrow.

With her younger sister’s wedding rapidly approaching, Eve is on the verge of panic. She can’t bear to attend the event alone. That’s when she recalls a strange story her Yiddish grandmother once told her, about a protector forged of desperation… and Eve, to her own shock, manages to create a golem.

At first everything seems great. The golem is indeed protective—and also attractive. But when they head out to a rural summer camp for the family wedding, Eve’s lighthearted rom-com fantasy swiftly mudslides into something much darker. (Synopsis from Goodreads)

My Thoughts: I enjoyed this. I really liked the incorporation of myth from another culture. It sort of reminded me of when Sabrina the Teenage Witch makes a boy out of bread dough, but this story was much more than that.

This story deals with a lot of hard topics that are kind of hidden by the cute/funny cover. Eve is dealing with a lot in her love, stress and grief. Those do take a starring role in this story.

I enjoyed the idea of the golem, he wasn't the star of the show that I thought he was going to be.

This is really the story of Eve and the difficulties that can come with life. It's not the most lighthearted story, but it was a good read.

Beth Kander is a novelist and playwright with tangled roots in the Midwest and Deep South. The granddaughter of immigrants, her writing explores how worlds old and new intertwine―or collide. Her work has been described as “riveting,” “emotional,” “expertly crafted,” and “habit-forming." Expect twists, turns, and secrets, with surprising heart and humor. Beth has too many degrees and drinks too much coffee. Her favorite characters are her dashing husband and their two lovely kids. www.bethkander.com

Thanks so much for checking out my Blog Tour Stop for I Made It Out of Clay by Beth Kander! Thank you to MIRA and Beth Kander for letting me be a part of the tour. This is definitely a fun one to add to the TBR.

BLOG TOUR: The Greatest Lie of All by Jillian Cantor

I'm excited to be a part of the Blog Tour for The Greatest Lie of All by Jillian Cantor! I received a free electronic copy from the publisher for an honest review. Thanks so much to Park Row and Jillian Cantor for letting me be a part of the tour!

Title: The Greatest Lie Of All

Author: Jillian Cantor

Published by: Park Row

Released: December 3, 2024

Source: Electronic Review Copy Provided by Publisher

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Synopsis: A glamorous romance novelist and an aspiring starlet share an unexpected secret in this addictive story about love, ambition and how far we’re willing to go to protect our hearts

Fledgling actress Amelia Grant is at rock bottom when offered the opportunity of a to star in a biopic about the world-renowned romance author Gloria Diamond, who used her own tragic love story as inspiration for her bestselling books. To prepare for the role, she’ll spend a week with Gloria at her secluded Washington estate. It’s a chance to get out of LA, away from her cheating ex-boyfriend, and to make her recently deceased mother proud.

Amelia’s excitement is short-lived, however, once she actually meets Gloria, who is cold, verging on rude and mostly unavailable. If not for Gloria’s frustratingly handsome son Will, the visit might be a complete waste of her time.

But when Amelia stumbles upon a secret from Gloria’s past, she realizes Gloria’s life story is more fiction than fact. And as the movie’s filming date draws nearer, Amelia must decide how much she’s willing to sacrifice to uncover the truth. (Synopsis from Goodreads)

My Thoughts: I really enjoyed this one. The premise is the first thing that really got me. I love books about stardom and the movies. This was just a really fun book to get lost in.

I loved the intrigue of it all. What is Gloria Diamond's secret! I enjoyed following Amelia as she's trying to find out what makes this romance author tick.

I think a lot of people would enjoy this one.

Jillian Cantor is the USA Today and internationally bestselling author of eleven novels for teens and adults, which have been chosen for LibraryReads, Indie Next and Amazon Best of the Month, and have been translated into thirteen languages. She has a BA in English from Penn State University and an MFA from the University of Arizona. Born and raised in a suburb of Philadelphia, Jillian currently lives in Arizona with her husband and two sons.

Thanks so much for checking out my Blog Tour Stop for The Greatest Lie Of All by Jillian Cantor! Thank you to Park Row and Jillian Cantor for letting me be a part of the tour. This is an easy add for anyone's reading list.

BLOG TOUR: Apartment Women by Gu Byeong-mo

 I'm excited to be a part of the Blog Tour for Apartment Women by Gu Byeong-mo! I received a free electronic copy for an honest review from the publisher. Thanks so much to Hanover Square Press and Gu Byeong-mo for letting me be a part of the tour!

Title: Apartment Women

Author: Gu Byeong-mo

Published by: Hanover Square Press

Released: December 3, 2024

Source: Electronic Review Copy Provided by Publisher

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Synopsis: From the New York Times Notable author of The Old Woman with the Knife comes a bracingly original story of family, marriage and the cultural expectations of motherhood, about four women whose lives intersect in dramatic and unexpected ways at a government-run apartment complex outside Seoul When Yojin moves with her husband and daughter into the Dream Future Pilot Communal Apartments, she’s ready for a fresh start. Located on the outskirts of Seoul, the experimental community is a government initiative designed to boost the national birth rate. Like her neighbors, Yojin has agreed to have at least two more children over the next ten years. Yet, from the day she arrives, Yojin feels uneasy about the community spirit thrust upon her. Her concerns grow as communal child care begins and the other parents show their true colors. Apartment Women traces the lives of four women in the apartments, all with different aspirations and beliefs. Will they find a way to live peacefully? Or are the cultural expectations around parenthood stacked against them from the start? A trenchant social novel from an award-winning author, Apartment Women incisively illuminates the unspoken imbalance of women’s parenting labor, challenging the age-old assumption that “it takes a village” to raise a child. (Synopsis from Goodreads)

My Thoughts: I enjoyed this one. I was interested in the story and learning about the characters. It was a slower paced story focused on a family, and people.

This is translated fiction. I'm always open and on the lookout to trying more translated fiction.

I could see a lot of people enjoying this one.

Gu Byeong-mo an award-winning author. Born in Seoul, South Korea, she now resides in Jinju, South Korea, with her family. The Old Woman with the Knife is her first book to be translated into English.

Thanks so much for checking out my Blog Tour Stop for Apartment Women by Gu Byeong-mo! Thank you to Hanover Square Press and Gu Byeong-mo for letting me be a part of the tour. You should definitely give this one a read.

BLOG TOUR: You Can't Hurt Me by Emma Cook

 I'm excited to be a part of the Blog Tour for You Can't Hurt Me by Emma Cook! I received a free electronic copy for an honest review from the publisher. Thanks so much to Hanover Square Press and Emma Cook for letting me be a part of the tour!

Title: You Can't Hurt Me

Author: Emma Cook

Published by: Hanover Square Press

Released: November 5, 2024

Source: Electronic Review Copy Provided by Publisher

Goodreads         Amazon

Synopsis: Meet Eva, who can’t feel pain, and Anna, who can’t escape it. Everyone has heard about the case of Eva Reid. Ever since she was born, she’s felt no she can get a paper cut, break a limb and even give birth without feeling a single thing. Her life has long captivated the fascination of reporters and researchers—including Dr. Nate Reid, Eva’s husband and acclaimed scientist renowned for his work in the Pain Laboratory. Also among them is Anna Tate, a ruthless journalist with a dark past of her own. When Eva is suddenly found dead inside her home, it raises a flurry of questions around the last night of her life—and who might’ve been involved. Anna finds herself growing increasingly obsessed with Eva’s her protected, painless existence, her promising career as a psychotherapist and especially her toxic relationship to the alluring Dr. Reid, whom Eva met and married as his former patient. But what other secrets could they be hiding? When Dr. Reid embarks on the process of writing a book about Eva, an opportunity arises for Anna to work on it alongside him. As she slowly inserts herself into their home to uncover what’s fact and what’s fiction, shocking discoveries await her—and not everyone may come out unscathed… (Synopsis from Goodreads)

My Thoughts: I love a book about secrets, so I was definitely interested in this one after reading the synopsis. There is always something so fun about mystery and obsessive journalists.

This book was full of drama and awful characters.

I was super intrigued while reading this, because I had to see just what was happening.

This story is perfect for thriller readers. I can see a lot of people wanting to know just what is going on in this book.

EMMA COOK is assistant editor The Observer Magazine. She has written for a range of titles including The Guardian, The Independent, The Times and the Daily Telegraph.

Thanks so much for checking out my Blog Tour Stop for You Can't Hurt Me by Emma Cook. Thank you to Hanover Square Press and Emma Cook for letting me be a part of the tour. This would be the perfect book to curl up with and read by the fire.

BLOG TOUR: The Maui Effect by Sara Ackerman

 I'm excited to be a part of the Blog Tour for The Maui Effect by Sara Ackerman! I received a free electronic copy from the publisher for an honest review. Thanks so much to MIRA and Sara Ackerman for letting me be a part of this tour!

Title: The Maui Effect

Author: Sara Ackerman

Published by: MIRA

Released: November 19, 2024

Source: Electronic Review Copy Provided by Publisher

Goodreads         Amazon

Synopsis: Taylor Jenkins Reid meets 100 Foot Wave in this dazzling new romance by USA TODAY bestselling author Sara Ackerman.

'Iwa Young’s life is high in the Maui rainforest. As a field biologist, she’s happiest in company with trees and birds and waterfalls. When a developer arrives with plans for a so-called "eco resort" in the middle of a forest full of endangered species, 'Iwa puts all her energy into the fight to protect it. But a chance encounter threatens to distract her. His name is Dane Parsons, and he’s a big-wave surfer from California. 'Iwa has a few unbreakable rules, and at the top of her list: never date a surfer.

Dane Parsons is part of an underground group of big-wave riders, and his connection to the ocean runs deep. When he meets 'Iwa, he can’t get her out of his mind. But 'Iwa wants nothing to do with Dane until he offers to help protect her beloved forest and waterfall. Always on the hunt for the ultimate ride, Dane suddenly glimpses something even greater, but just out of reach.

In this thunderous love story, we travel deep into the Maui rainforest and hop across the globe from Hawai'i to California to Portugal, chasing waves the size of nine-story buildings—where the unthinkable is always just one breath away. (Synopsis from Goodreads)

My Thoughts: I enjoyed this one. I really liked the setting of Hawaii. It was a book that made me feel warm, which I really needed as the weather is getting colder. I also love the cover design.

I enjoyed the characters and following their story. I really enjoyed the surfing culture.

I can see a lot of people really enjoying this one, and I'd definitely recommend giving it a read.

Sara Ackerman is the Hawai'i born, bestselling author of historical & romance novels set in the islands. Her books have been labeled “unforgettable” by Apple Books, “empowering & deliciously visceral” by Book Riot, and New York Times bestselling authors Kate Quinn and Madeline Martin have praised Sara’s novels as “fresh and delightful” and “brilliantly written.” Amazon chose Radar Girls as a best book of the month, and ALA Booklist gave The Codebreaker’s Secret a starred review. Find out more about Sara and her books at www.ackermanbooks.com and follow her on Instagram @saraackermanbooks and on Facebook @ackermanbooks.

Thanks so much for checking out my Blog Tour Stop for The Maui Effect by Sara Ackerman! Thank you to MIRA and Sara Ackerman for letting me be a part of the tour. This book is a great reminder of summer vacation while being stuck inside with cold weather!

BLOG TOUR: The Jewel of the Blues by Monica Chenault-Kilgore

 I'm excited to be a part of the Blog Tour for The Jewel of the Blues by Monica Chenault-Kilgore! I received a free review copy for an honest review from the publisher. Thanks so much to Graydon House and Monica Chenault-Kilgore for letting me be a part of the tour!

Title: The Jewel of the Blues

Author: Monica Chenault-Kilgore

Published by: Graydon House

Released: November 19, 2024

Source: Electronic Review Copy Provided by Publisher

Goodreads         Amazon

Synopsis: Set in the sparkling 1920s jazz era, The Jewel of the Blues pulls back the curtain on all the romance, danger and drama in the bustling backstage life of a young performer.

Lucille Arnetta Love has always lived on the run. In her family's traveling band, Lucille was billed as The Little Girl with the Big Voice, belting out gospel hymns and never staying in once place too long--all to keep attention off the real reason the Loves had to flee across America. Unaware of the danger, Lucille dreamed of breaking out of the backwoods and being big enough for Broadway. Nearly eleven years after setting out on the road with her parents, Lucille is finally discovered by Marcus Williams, a young talent manager who whisks her away to chase her dreams.

The big cities aren't kind to Lucille; no matter how big her voice is, there's always another act to be compared to. So Marcus rebrands The Little Girl with the Big Voice and sets Lucille up with a band. Once Miss Lucille's Black Troubadours are formed, no one can hold a candle to them. Together with Big Bobby, Lincoln, and Sweet Mitchell, Miss Lucille and her band become rising stars, moving up the bill and delivering knockout performances at every club and theatre on the circuit.

But as opportunities grow stagnant and the band turns restless, personal demons haunt the Troubadours. Between drinking, gambling, and love affairs, Lucille's family secret is revealed, and it's a shock even to her: a decades-old robbery that ended in a suspicious death--and all signs seem to point to her own father as the culprit. Now the thieves from years' past have caught up with Lucille and are back for revenge...and to collect the money that was never recovered with the body. (Synopsis from Goodreads)

My Thoughts: I enjoyed this story. I liked following the life of Lucille. It was interesting reading her story, all the ups and downs that life took her on.

I liked reading a story set from this time period. It always looks like a time of fun and party, but you can forget how hard life can be. 

I can see a lot of people enjoying this one, especially if they read a lot of historical fiction.

Monica Chenault-Kilgore was born and raised in Cincinnati, Ohio and currently lives in Edison, New Jersey. She is a graduate of The Ohio State University School of Journalism. Her published works include Liberty and Justice for All…Profiles of Middlesex County African American Veterans of WWII and the Korean War which is available in the public library. She formerly worked as a Contributing Reporter for The Home News Tribune and The Courier News newspapers.

Thanks so much for checking out my Blog Tour Stop for The Jewel of the Blues by Monica Chenault-Kilgore! Thank you to Graydon House and Monica Chenault-Kilgore for letting me be a part of the tour. This is one book you should definitely give a read.

BLOG TOUR: Her Knight at the Museum by Bryn Donovan

 I'm excited to be a part of the Blog Tour for Her Knight at the Museum by Bryn Donovan! I received a free electronic copy for an honest review from the publisher. Thanks so much to Berkley and Bryn Donovan for letting me be a part of the tour!

Title: Her Knight at the Museum

Author: Bryn Donovan

Published by: Berkley

Released: November 12, 2024

Source: Electronic Review Copy Provided by Publisher

Goodreads         Amazon

Synopsis: A centuries-long curse is no match for rom-com shenanigans when a medieval knight is brought to life in modern-day Chicago.

Forgotten by time and abandoned by hope, Sir Griffin de Beauford’s existence stretches out before him. Cursed by a ruthless enchanter to see, hear, and think, but never to move or speak, Griffin suffers the long, lonely centuries trapped in stone…until an unexpected kiss from a fair maiden breathes new life into his soul—and his body.

Emily Porter, a recently divorced conservator at the Art Institute of Chicago, is charged with the restoration of a statue of a medieval English knight. Breaking curses was not part of the job description. And yet, here he is, the man of her dreams come to life, resplendent in shining armor as he joyously barrels into priceless antiquities...and goes on to dismantle her defenses, wreak havoc on her senses, and tempt her to believe once more in happy-ever-afters.

But the modern age tries Griffin’s patience and pride, and Emily is a prime suspect in the investigation of the missing sculpture. In a complicated world, can they find their way to a fairy-tale ending? (Synopsis from Goodreads)

My Thoughts: As soon as I read the synopsis for this, I was in! It was exactly the fun, romantic kind of story I was wanting.

This story was a blast to read. It gives everything the synopsis promises. Sometimes, I just want a book to let me have a good time, and this did that for me.

I can see a lot of readers enjoying this one.

I really enjoyed both of the characters and the hijinks they got into.

Bryn Donovan is the author of several romance novels, including Sunrise Cabin, a Publishers Weekly bestseller. She’s also written nonfiction books and the story treatments for two Hallmark Channel movies. Her work has appeared in McSweeney’s, Writer’s Digest, and many literary journals. A former executive editor in publishing, she earned her MFA in Creative Writing from the University of Arizona. She’s a voracious reader, a rescue dog lover, and a hopeless romantic who lives in the Chicago area and blogs about writing and positivity.

Thanks so much for checking out my Blog Tour Stop for Her Knight at the Museum by Bryn Donovan! Thank you to Berkley and Bryn Donovan for letting me be a part of the tour. If you're looking for something cute, give this one a read.

BLOG TOUR: Bride of the Shadow King by Sylvia Mercedes

 I'm excited to be a part of the Blog Tour for Bride of the Shadow King by Sylvia Mercedes! I received a free electronic copy for an honest review from the publisher. Thanks so much to Ace and Sylvia Mercedes for letting me be a part of the tour!

Title: Bride of the Shadow King

Author: Sylvia Mercedes

Published by: Ace

Released: November 12, 2024

Source: Electronic Review Copy Provided by Publisher

Goodreads         Amazon

Synopsis: For fans of The Bridge Kingdom and A Deal with the Elf King, this arranged marriage romance about a human princess forced to wed a dark and desperate Shadow King is sure to entice!

A shunned princess. A reluctant king.

A marriage that could save both their kingdoms . . . but destroy their hearts.

Though she is the oldest daughter, Princess Faraine lives in the background, shunned from court and kept out of sight. Her chronic illness makes her a liability to the crown, and she has learned to give place to her beautiful, favored younger sister in all things.

When the handsome and enigmatic Shadow King comes seeking a bride, Faraine is not surprised that her sister is his choice.

Though not eager to take a human bride, King Vor is willing to do what is necessary for the sake of his people. When he meets the lively Princess Ilsevel, he quickly agrees to a marriage arrangement.

So why can’t he get the haunting eyes of her older sister out of his head?

When disaster strikes and the marriage alliance is compromised, Faraine suddenly finds herself forced to take her sister’s place . . . regardless of her new husband’s desires. Can she find a place at Vor’s side as his queen? Or is his heart forever closed to the woman who deceived him so cruelly?

Passionate and alluring, Bride of the Shadow King is an arranged marriage tale with dual point-of-view (his and hers). It’s perfect for fantasy fans looking for a touch of spice to go with the sweet in their next swoony, slow-burn romance. (Synopsis from Goodreads)

My Thoughts: I am always excited to pick up some new Romantasy. I'm also a sucker for the arranged marriage trope. As soon as I read the synopsis, I was ready to give this book a read.

I really enjoyed this one. It definitely had a lot of angst and feelings that the characters kept experiencing. 

It was a really easy book to read and devour.

I definitely want to read the rest of the series. I need to see what happens next.

If you're a Romantasy Reader, you'll definitely want to pick this one up!

Sylvia Mercedes makes her home in the idyllic North Carolina countryside with her handsome husband, numerous small children, and the feline duo affectionately known as The Fluffy Brothers. When she’s not writing she’s . . . okay, let’s be honest. When she’s not writing, she’s running around after her littles, cleaning up glitter, trying to plan healthy-ish meals, and wondering where she left her phone. In between, she reads a steady diet of fantasy novels.

​

But mostly she’s writing.

Thanks so much for checking out my Blog Tour Stop for Bride of the Shadow King by Sylvia Mercedes! Thank you to Ace and Sylvia Mercedes for letting me be a part of the tour. If you're looking for some more Romantasy to read, you should definitely check this one out.