Friday, October 19, 2018

Fall TBR (2018)

This TBR is delayed and I almost skipped. I haven't been reading as much the last few months. And I'm not sure any of that will change. Unfortunately, there are just other things that have to take priority in my life.

I carried over one of my summer TBR books. Generally, I tried to make this a pretty easy TBR. I'm also running out of older books to running out of old books to read. Perhaps I'll start doing re-read seasonal TBRs soon. 

Here's the TBR. No ebooks this time.

A Kiss at Midnight
6957682

The Night Circus
9361589

Good in Bed
14748

A Secret in Her Kiss
12193350

Shadow and Bone
10194157

Thanks for reading!
Holly

Monday, October 15, 2018

Review: Heat Exchange by Shannon Stacey

24692826
Series: Boston Fire Book #1
Format: ebook
Rating: 3 Stars
How I Got It: Borrowed from Library
Genre: Contemporary Romance
Publisher: Carina Press

Synopsis courtesy of Goodreads

Lydia Kincaid's shipping back to Boston, but she's not happy about it. She left to get away from the firefighting community—her father was a firefighter, her brother's a firefighter and, more important, her ex is a firefighter. But family is number one, and her father needs her help running the pub he bought when he retired. Soon, Lydia finds it hard to resist the familiar comfort and routine, and even harder to resist her brother's handsome friend Aidan. 

Aidan Hunt is a firefighter because of the Kincaid family. He's had the hots for Lydia for years, but if ever a woman was off-limits to him, it's her. Aside from being his mentor's daughter, she's his best friend's sister. The ex-wife of a fellow firefighter. But his plan to play it cool until she leaves town again fails, and soon he and Lydia have crossed a line they can't uncross. 

As Aidan and Lydia's flirtation turns into something more serious, Lydia knows she should be planning her escape. Being a firefighter's wife was the hardest thing she's ever done, and she doesn't know if she has the strength to do it again. Aidan can't imagine walking away from Boston Fire—even for Lydia. The job and the brotherhood are his life; but if he wants Lydia in it, he'll have to decide who's first in his heart. 

Review

After getting book for in this series from NetGalley, I had to read the whole series.

This follows Lydia who has married to a firefighter and her dad was one. So, now she's basically sworn off firefighters. But she ends up in a relationship with her brother's best friend, Aidan, who is also a firefighter.

Most of the tension comes from her dislike of firefighter life/culture and Aidan being her brother's best friend. Her dealing with how firefighters act and bond was interesting to read. And it's a realistic struggle for a couple which I'm always a fan of reading. However, I really dislike the whole can't date your best friend's sibling trope. 

Lydia and Aidan are both fun characters. The romance was well done other than the brother/best friend thing. The story felt like it ended a bit abruptly. An epilogue would've helped with that, but I also love epilogues in my romances.

Thanks for reading!
Holly

Friday, October 12, 2018

September Wrap-Up (2018)

Honestly, I don't remember September.

I do know my nephew was born at the beginning of the month. And my dance classes started up again. Both of those were exciting things. I'm very happy to see pictures of my nephew every day. 

I didn't really read a lot this month. I haven't really been in a reading mood lately. I haven't been in an "anything" mood if I'm being honest. 

So, these are the books I did read this month:

Get Out of Your Own Way-3 Stars
40519777

Toil & Trouble-3 Stars
36426163

A Kiss at Midnight-4 Stars
6957682

Under Control-4 Stars
35287633

Heat Exchange-3 Stars
24692826

Controlled Burn-4 Stars
25125233

Fully Ignited-4 Stars
26290972

Thanks for reading!
Holly

Wednesday, October 10, 2018

Review: Toil & Trouble Edited by Tess Sharpe & Jessica Spotswood

36426163
Anthology
Format: ebook
Rating: 3 Stars
How I Got It: NetGalley
Genre: Young Adult, Fantasy, Supernatural
Publisher: Harlequin Teen

Synopsis courtesy of Goodreads

History tells us women accused of witchcraft were often outsiders: educated, independent, unmarried, unwilling to fall in line with traditional societal expectations.

Bold. Powerful. Rebellious.

A bruja’s traditional love spell has unexpected results. A witch’s healing hands begin to take life instead of giving it when she ignores her attraction to a fellow witch. In a terrifying future, women are captured by a cabal of men crying witchcraft and the one true witch among them must fight to free them all. In a desolate past, three orphaned sisters prophesize for a murderous king. Somewhere in the present, a teen girl just wants to kiss a boy without causing a hurricane.

From good witches to bad witches, to witches who are a bit of both, this is an anthology of diverse witchy tales from a collection of diverse, feminist authors. The collective strength of women working together—magically or mundanely--has long frightened society, to the point that women’s rights are challenged, legislated against, and denied all over the world. Toil & Trouble delves deep into the truly diverse mythology of witchcraft from many cultures and feminist points of view, to create modern and unique tales of witchery that have yet to be explored. 

Review

***I received this book via NetGalley from the publisher in exchange for an honest review***

I was pretty excited about this collection. I have liked Jessica Spotswood's Cahill Witch Chronicles and there aren't a lot of witch books/stores out there. But I ended up rather disappointed.

Short stories are incredibly hard to write, in my opinion. It is a particular skill set which not all authors have. I have not read most of these authors longer works so I can't speak to their writing more broadly. 

A lot of the stories came across as pushing an agenda. I'm not offended by the content, but it is annoying to me when things feel forced. I think it's like when a major issue/event happens and then popular shows need to have a similar story line to "address" it. You can do a PSA without feeling like a PSA. 

There were a few stories I did enjoy reading. Jessica Spotswood's and "Death in the Saw Tooths"-sorry I can't remember the author's name-were both interesting. And they made me want to read more like a full length novel of those stories.

I wouldn't necessarily recommend this, but I don't want to just dismiss it. One of the things about an anthology is that it exposes you to a large amount of authors/stories. Most likely you'll find something you like and maybe you'll find a new favorite author.

Thanks for reading!
Holly

Monday, October 8, 2018

Book Review: Under Control by Shannon Stacey

35287633
Series: Boston Fire Book #5
Format: ebook
Rating: 4 Stars
How I Got It: NetGalley
Genre: Contemporary Romance
Publisher: Carina Press

Synopsis courtesy of Goodreads

When faced with the opportunity to change shifts while staying in the same house, veteran firefighter Derek Gilman jumps at the chance. His new schedule means not working Saturdays, which means more time to spend with his two kids. His divorce may have been amicable, but being a firefighter and a single dad is a lot to juggle. And when fate brings a gorgeous, wealthy woman into his life, he’s pretty sure he can’t handle more than he already is.

Olivia McGovern loves plans. She planned to start her own business and planned its growth. It’s earning her seven figures now, but her personal life simply doesn’t exist. Getting trapped in a broken elevator figures in exactly nowhere, and freaking out in front of a sexy firefighter definitely isn’t on the agenda. Especially not one with two kids and an ex.

What would have been a random incident with an attractive stranger becomes something more when a charity event brings them back together. They’re from different sides of the tracks, literally—with friends, family and careers to consider. But as Derek and Olivia are discovering, chemistry doesn’t allow for plans, and love doesn’t bother with logistics.

Review

***I received this book via NetGalley from the publisher in exchange for an honest review***

This was my first Shannon Stacey book! I've heard about her for years, but never pulled the trigger. I totally wish I had read her before. This was a really good book.

I'm not sure I've ever read a firefighter story before. I liked it. The firehouse kind of creates a found family. That is one of my favorite things to read.

The romance was well-paced and well-written. Olivia and Derek have demanding careers which they really care about. They have to navigate that work-life balance. That felt very natural and realistic-sometimes romance novels ignores those realities of life.

Derek is divorced and has kids. I don't particularly like stories with kids, but this one worked. Again, I liked that Ms. Stacey addressed the difficulties of dating after divorce and dating someone that has kids. 

I really enjoyed these characters and the world. I immediately borrowed the other books in the series from the library. And I can't wait for the next one in the series.

Thanks for reading!
Holly

Friday, October 5, 2018

August Wrap-Up (2018)

Honestly, I've been putting off writing this. And who knows when I'll actually post it. I didn't read a ton in August. And I'm not sure I did any blog or YouTube posts.

Things have just been crazy. Between work and my mom's health I've been struggling to find the time and energy to read and post. I've also started focusing on my own health and exercise.

Anyways, here are the books I read and their ratings:

Speakeasy-4 Stars
39900826

Beyond the Castle-4 Stars
36184582

Hard Sell-3 Stars
37971515

Say You'll Remember Me-4 Stars
35133826

Man Hands-4 Stars
36668469

What the F-4 Stars
34843724

Into the Fire-3 Stars
23586994

Joy of Hate-4 Stars 
15796711

Thanks for reading!
Holly 

Sunday, August 19, 2018

Review: Hard Sell by Lauren Layne

37971515
Series: Wall Street Book #2
Format: ebook
Pages: 252
Rating: 3 Stars
How I Got It: NetGalley
Genre: Contemporary Romance
Publisher: Montlake Publishing

Synopsis courtesy of Goodreads

Twenty-eight and filthy rich, Matt Cannon is the youngest broker on Wall Street. He may be a “boy wonder,” but he’s every inch a man. Ask any woman—any night. But when Matt’s latest fling makes scandalous headlines, his clients get anxious, and his bosses at Wolfe Investments level an ultimatum: keep his assets zipped, get a “real” girlfriend, and clean up his act. Only one woman can help Matt with something this hard.

For PR genius Sabrina Cross, the best fixer in Manhattan, playing Matt’s steady is going to be a challenge, even if it’s just for show. They already have an explosive history, she can’t stand the cocky party boy, and worse—she can’t stop thinking about him. So who’ll dare to break her “no touching” rule first? Because when that happens, Matt and Sabrina’s game of let’s pretend will get so hot it could set both their reputations on fire.

Review

***I received this book via NetGalley from the publisher in exchange for an honest review***

This was a quick and fairly fun read. However, it was a little disappointing. It felt unpolished.

The characters are interesting. The friendships (male, female, large group, etc.) is probably the best part. The hero and heroine-Matt and Sabrina-have a lot of potential. That's what is disappointing. Looking at their past, they should be very compelling, but instead it's never developed enough. I think it's that the emotion of their emotion of their various situations is never really explored. This means even thought they shouldn't be, Matt and Sabrina both come across one-dimensional. 

The romance was good and fun to read. IT was an interesting play on the enemies to lovers trope. I liked their bickering. They had a good push and pull to their interactions that built a strong chemistry. There was a lot of mentions to previous interactions from before this book. It would've been nice to get some flashbacks of those interactions to more fully flush that out.

While this is my least favorite Lauren Layne book, I do still really enjoy her writing. I will continue to read her books and would even read the others in this series-especially what I assume will be the next one.

Thanks for reading!
Holly

Friday, August 10, 2018

Review: Speakeasy by Sarina Bowen

39900826
Series: True North Book #5
Format: Trade Paperback
Pages: 272
Rating: 4 Stars
How I Got It: Purchased
Genre: Contemporary Romance
Publisher: Tuxbury Publishing

Synopsis courtesy of Goodreads

Sometimes you fall for Mr. Right. And sometimes for Mr. Right Now… 

May 

Did you hear the one about the girl who walks into a bar and catches her live-in lover kissing someone else? No? You’re the only one in town who missed it. 
Luckily Alec is there to wrap me up in strong arms and carry me out the door before things get too ugly. And that’s not all Alec is good at. Our unexpected chemistry makes him the perfect rebound guy. 

Alec
 
I should know better than to hook up with my rival’s little sister, but the fiery look in May’s eyes really turns my crank. She needs cheering up, and I’m just the guy for the job. 
It’s not like I’ll fall in love. Not even after a string of scorching hot trysts, and the realization that we’re good at the same things: wild nights and familial disappointment. I don’t do love, never have, never will. So this is the perfect arrangement, for both of us. 
Nobody would approve, but nobody has to know…

Review

Speakeasy was a great read, but probably my least favorite in the True North series. It's still 4 stars so of course I liked it.

I definitely cared about May and Alec. Alec a little more. But I wasn't as emotionally invested as I was to the characters in the previous books. Alec is a likable goofball on the surface, but he has a strong desire to be respected. It did break my heart a little when people would dismiss him or speak down to him. And I like seeing how May had to deal with her family and how they treated her. It's also always interesting to get in the head of an alcoholic/addict.

The romance was really fun. It starts out as a rebound hook-up which is a common thing in romance. I liked the chemistry and conversations between them. You could especially tell how much Alec cared about Meg.

Before I even read this book-with just the synopsis-I was thrown. I thought May was a lesbian the whole time. Maybe she was described as bisexual and I don't remember it. I guess it doesn't actually matter, but it was just odd for her to end up with a guy when that wasn't what I previously thought would happen. This probably wouldn't be a "thing" upon a re-read and my rating may go up. I was just through off by it and couldn't stop thinking about it.

Thanks for reading!
Holly

Monday, August 6, 2018

Review: Wicked and the Wallflower by Sarah MacLean

35695972
Series: Bareknuckle Bastards Book #1
Format: Mass Market Paperback
Pages: 396
Rating: 4.5 Stars
How I Got It: Purchased
Genre: Historical Romance
Publisher: Avon

Synopsis courtesy of Goodreads

When Wicked Comes Calling...

When a mysterious stranger finds his way into her bedchamber and offers his help in landing a duke, Lady Felicity Faircloth agrees—on one condition. She's seen enough of the world to believe in passion, and won't accept a marriage without it.

The Wallflower Makes a Dangerous Bargain...

Bastard son of a duke and king of London's dark streets, Devil has spent a lifetime wielding power and seizing opportunity, and the spinster wallflower is everything he needs to exact a revenge years in the making. All he must do is turn the plain little mouse into an irresistible temptress, set his trap, and destroy his enemy.

For the Promise of Passion...

But there's nothing plain about Felicity Faircloth, who quickly decides she'd rather have Devil than another. Soon, Devil's carefully laid plans are in chaos, and he must choose between everything he's ever wanted...and the only thing he's ever desired.

Review

I've been going back and forth on whether I should review this or not. I really really enjoyed the story but I'm not sure I can coherently explain my thoughts.

Apparently, I'm going to attempt to try.

This story was pretty angsty and dark. Mostly this tied in with the hero, Devil. However, the heroine-Felicity- thought some things that are a little "extreme" for a traditional romance heroine. I have no issues with her thoughts and would have had the same in her position. Some things are still a little rose-colored, because you know: Romance Novel. But I'm glad Ms. MacLean was willing to take her story where she did.

Speaking of, I'm going to address the use of the word F*ck in this book. I probably wouldn't have even thought about it, but apparently a lot of people were bothered by it and Ms. MacLean posted about it on Instagram. This caused the word to stand out to me. So, if you're bothered by reading an F-bomb, but not explicit sex scenes, don't read this. Personally, I found it's use perfect. If I remember correctly, it's always used by the hero who has been through some serious sh...crap. It would've been inauthentic for him to use other words in those situations. The F-word is a truly versatile word and can add the appropriate amount of spice to a story when used well like it was done here.

The romance was really beautiful. Felicity and Devil complement each other. She is a very positive person who sees beauty in the world. And she wants to see and explore all that beauty. Devil is, understandably, very dark and negative. Their interactions were full of chemistry, push and pull, and felt very organic.

Basically, I just loved this story: the characters, romance, writing-it was all fantastic. And I'm definitely intrigued by the side characters. There is still a lot of unanswered questions and I don't want to wait for them!

Thanks for reading!
Holly

Saturday, August 4, 2018

July Wrap-up (2018)

July was not the best reading month-at least when it comes to quantity. I was actually able to read some really enjoyable books. And I finished by Bridgerton Series re-read.

I went on vacation to Nova Scotia with my family this month. I thought this would mean I'd get a lot of reading done. It was supposed to be a pretty relaxed vacation plus we had a long drive and 5 1/2 hour ferry ride. Then, I got sea sick. This was a very unexpected event. I've been on boats before with not issue, but never one this big. Who knows what happens. So, I slept a lot and was "recovering" and my brain and stomach had no interest in reading.

But the vacation was really relaxing and enjoyable. And while I didn't get a lot of books read, I'm still ahead of my GoodReads challenge. Plus, I read some great books like the first Veronica Speedwell story.

Here are the books I read and their ratings:

A Curious Beginning-4.5 Stars
28186322

Playing Hurt-4 Stars
36507010

On the Way to the Wedding-4 Stars
110388

Down with Love-4 Stars
36257994

The Bridgertons: Happily Ever After-4 Stars
11867860

Wicked and the Wallflower-4.5 Stars
35695972

Thanks for reading!
Holly

Monday, July 30, 2018

Review: Down with the Love by Kate Meader

36257994
Series: Laws of Attraction Book #1
Format: ebook
Rating: 4 Stars
How I Got It: NetGalley
Genre: Contemporary Romance
Publisher: Loveswept

Synopsis courtesy of Goodreads

If you ever get married, remember my name: Max Henderson. In my line of work, you acquire a certain perspective on supposedly everlasting unions. . . .

1. Pre-nups are your friend. 
2. The person you married is not the person you’re divorcing. 
3. And I hope you didn’t spend much on the wedding because that was one helluva waste of hard-earned cash, wasn’t it? 

But some guys are willing to take a chance. Like my brother, who thinks he’s going to ride off into the sunset with the woman of his dreams in a haze of glitter on unicorns. And the wedding planner—the green-eyed beauty who makes a living convincing suckers to shell out thousands of dollars on centerpieces—is raking it in on this matrimonial monstrosity. 

The thing is, Charlie Love is not unlike me. We’re both cogs in the wedding-industrial complex. As the best man, I know her game—and I can play it better than her. But after one scorching, unexpected kiss, I’m thinking I might just want to get played.

Review

***I received this book via NetGalley from the publisher in exchange for an honest review***

I probably should've written this closer to when I read it. It was a fun and enjoyable read, but it also standard and forgettable.

The characters are pretty standard: he doesn't really believe in love and she is all about the happily ever afters. It even extends to their professions of divorce lawyer and wedding planner respectively. They are stereotypical characters, but are very well developed. Charlie, the heroine, is especially interesting. She was in the foster system and after a rough time she finally connected with some great foster parents. I particularly liked her relationship with her (foster) dad.

Charlie and Max have great chemistry. They have that good bickering, but it's never harsh. And they generally act like mature adults when dealing with their issues. For some reason, I LOVE when Max calls her Charles. Pet names and nicknames don't always work and can feel forced, but this really worked.

I'm grateful for the opportunity to read this and will continue with the series and Ms. Meader's books.

Thanks for reading!
Holly

Friday, July 27, 2018

Spring/Summer Book Haul

I bought far more books then I planned to. But a decent amount were from ThriftBhooks or Goodwill so they weren't too expensive. I blame BookTube and Smart Bitches. I did also pick up some newer releases.

A few months ago, I did purchase a bunch of Krista and Becca Ritchie books with some of my tax return money. I got 10 of their books (the whole Addicted/Calloway series) signed. I did an unboxing video for that.

Be warned, it's long, fangirly, and random, but you can check it out here:

These are the books I purchased. If there are any you want a review of let me know.

Romancing Mr. Bridgerton
110384

To Sir Phillip with Love
110386

On the Way to the Wedding
110388

The Bridgertons: Happily Ever After
11867860

Judgment Road
34604610

Wicked and the Wallflower
35695972

Speakeasy
35695972

Silent in the Grave
6933131

Jewels of the Sun
59810

Cocky Tales
40103988

Thanks for reading!
Holly

Wednesday, July 25, 2018

Review: On the Way to the Wedding by Julia Quinn

110388
Series: Bridgertons Book #8
Format: Mass Market Paperback
Pages: 371
Rating: 4 Stars
How I Got It: Purchased
Genre: Historical Romance
Publisher: Avon

Synopsis courtesy of Goodreads

Unlike most men of his acquaintance, Gregory Bridgerton believes in true love. And he is convinced that when he finds the woman of his dreams, he will know in an instant that she is the one. And that is exactly what happened. Except... 

She wasn't the one. In fact, the ravishing Miss Hermione Watson is in love with another. But her best friend, the ever-practical Lady Lucinda Abernathy, wants to save Hermione from a disastrous alliance, so she offers to help Gregory win her over. But in the process, Lucy falls in love. With Gregory! Except... 

Lucy is engaged. And her uncle is not inclined to let her back out of the betrothal, even once Gregory comes to his senses and realizes that it is Lucy, with her sharp wit and sunny smile, who makes his heart sing. And now, on the way to the wedding, Gregory must risk everything to ensure that when it comes time to kiss the bride, he is the only man standing at the altar...

Review

It's the last Bridgerton novel-sort of. I didn't remember this at all, so it was like I was reading it for the first time. And I got really into it and found myself really caring about these characters. Lucy, the heroine, especially was easy for me to connect with.

Gregory, the hero, unabashedly believes in love. Really, how could he not after seeing his whole family. He gets a little moony-eyed over Lucy's best friend, but I still love that he isn't afraid of love. So many romance heroes are crazy damaged, jaded, etc. There is a time and place for that hero, but Gregory and place for that hero, but Gregory is a nice change. Ms. Quinn also explored the psychology of his relationship with his brothers which was very interesting. 

Lucy was just a treat. She is funny in a subtle way and knows who she is-very pragmatic. She's also incredibly loyal-perhaps too loyal. Her supportive and beautiful relationship with her best friend, Hermione, is very nice t o read about. 

The romance was pretty slow since Gregory first "falls in love" with Hermione. Lucy is helping Gregory woo her friend. This allows them to build a friendship and open their eyes to the potential between them. And they had a subtle, sweet chemistry. Crazy, burning passion can be fun to read, but a change is nice to read.

I'm sad to have just the 2nd epilogues left in this series. It isn't the most amazing series but it's a fund read with an amazing family.

Thanks for reading!
Holly




Monday, July 23, 2018

Review: Playing Hurt by Kelly Jamieson

36507010
Series: Aces Hockey Book #6
Format: ebook
Rating: 4 Stars
How I Got It: NetGalley
Genre: Contemporary Romance, Sports Romance
Publisher: Loveswept

Synopsis courtesy of Goodreads

Chase: The last thing I’d ever want to do is let my team down. After overcoming my bad-boy reputation, I was dominating on the ice. But things aren’t going so well this season, and even my parents think I’m partying again. Now I’m really worried about my career. The only bright spot in my life is the Twitter flirtation I’ve struck up with pop princess Jordyn Banks. Turns out she’s a huge hockey fan—and she’s willing to wager a date on her favorite team. . . . 

Jordyn: Even though I’m an L.A. fan now, I’ve always had a soft spot for the Aces, since I grew up in Chicago. Then I lose a bet to Chase Hartman, and suddenly I’m up close and personal with a pro athlete who’s anything but soft. Not only is Chase the hottest guy I’ve ever met, he’s secretly super sweet. As if I had time for a relationship . . . yeah, right. But when I suddenly have nothing but time on my hands, he’s the only one who understands. Now, with both of our careers at stake, Chase is tempting me to put my heart on the line too.

Review

***I received this book via NetGalley from the publisher in exchange for an honest review***

This was a pleasant surprise. When I first started it felt poorly written. The dialogue felt forced and it seemed like a hockey book written by someone who doesn't even casually watch it. But about 25% in the book took a turn. It felt much more natural and hooked me. I'm glad I pushed through and kept reading.

Jordyn and Chase were interesting characters. They were complex enough to feel real without being too angsty. And they both had things to deal with outside of the romantic story line.

The romance was very cute. There was immediate chemistry and their flirting made me smile. They had a lot of conversations loaded with sexual tension, but didn't just have sex which I liked. I also liked that they had real/adult arguments. And generally, they were handled in a realistic and mature way.

I'm really happy I kept reading this even though I was initially let down. It's my first Kelly Jamieson book and I will seek out her other books by her. It's always good to have another author who writes solid hockey/sports romances.

Thanks for reading!
Holly




Friday, July 13, 2018

Review: A Curious Beginning by Deanna Raybourn

28186322
Series: Veronica Speedwell Book #1
Format: ebook
Rating: 4.5 Stars
How I Got It: Borrowed from Library
Genre: Historical Fiction, Mystery
Publisher: Penguin/NAL

Synopsis courtesy of Goodreads

London, 1887. After burying her spinster aunt, orphaned Veronica Speedwell is free to resume her world travels in pursuit of scientific inquiry—and the occasional romantic dalliance. As familiar with hunting butterflies as with fending off admirers, Veronica intends to embark upon the journey of a lifetime.

But fate has other plans when Veronica thwarts her own attempted abduction with the help of an enigmatic German baron, who offers her sanctuary in the care of his friend Stoker, a reclusive and bad-tempered natural historian. But before the baron can reveal what he knows of the plot against her, he is found murdered—leaving Veronica and Stoker on the run from an elusive assailant as wary partners in search of the villainous truth.

Review

I got this from the library after hearing an interview with Deanna Raybourn on the Smart Bitches podcast. Mystery isn't a typical genre for me, but I'm glad I gave it a chance. I really enjoyed it, but can't quite give it 5 stars for some reason.

My favorite thing is the writing style. Veronica reminds me of Alexia Taribotti from the Parasol Protectorate series. She's kind of a snob, but still likable. Snob may be a little harsh. Veronica is very intelligent and independent and thinks she knows what is best in every situation. She has a pretty subtle wit that often made me smile.

The mystery was interesting and kept me guessing. I'm curious to see what mysteries and stories happen in the next books.

There is a budding romance-at least I think and hope. It'll probably be very drawn out, but I'm along for the ride. 

I really enjoy the dynamic between Stoker and Veronica. Stoker is an interesting character who I want to know more about. I think I see things about him Veronica doesn't but who knows. I guess I'll find out as I keep reading the series.

Thanks for reading!
Holly

Wednesday, July 11, 2018

Review: Tight Quarters by Annabeth Albert

39675783
Series: Out of Uniform Book #6
Format: ebook
Rating: 3 Stars
How I Got It: NetGalley
Genre: Romance, M/M
Publisher: Carina Press

Synopsis courtesy of Goodreads

Petty Officer Bacon, a navy SEAL and ace sharpshooter, has been on the front lines of more than his fair share of dangerous ops. Yet when a minor injury relegates him to the beta team, he’s tasked with what may be his riskiest assignment yet: the silver fox journalist he’s babysitting is the hottest, most charismatic man he’s ever encountered.

Award-winning journalist Spencer Bryant may have been named one of Pride magazine’s most eligible bachelors of the year, but he’s not looking to change his relationship status. He’s a consummate professional who won’t risk his ethics or impeccable reputation by getting involved with a source. Even a sexy-as-hell military man. But while Spencer can resist his physical attraction to Bacon, he has less control over his emotions—especially when the mission goes sideways and the two men are trapped alone.

Getting out of the jungle alive turns out to be easy compared to facing the truth about their feelings for one another back in the real world. And whether or not they can build a future is a different story altogether. 

Review

***I received this book via NetGalley from the publisher in exchange for an honest review***

This is my third Annabeth Albert book. I do enjoy her stories and do casually like military romances. But they do feel a little redundant. All of the ones I've read had 1 character that was in some kind of denial and there is a good amount of angst surrounding that.

In addition to being a M/M military romance, there's a fairly substantial age difference between Spencer and Bacon. And it was almost a non-issue which I liked. Both of their families and friends were supportive. There was more tension from Spencer's job as a reporter. This was realistic considering the importance of secrecy in the military, but sometimes the drama felt a little overwrought.

Bacon's passion for the military is probably one of my favorite things. When writing a LGBTQ+ story it would be easy to trash the military and service(wo)men. Ms. Albert shows some intolerance but also explores the complexity of a changing world. Bacon's desire to be a lifer and love for his team was very beautiful and jumped off the page.

I will read more Annabeth Albert books because I trust her as an author. However, I may try a different series to hopefully avoid some of these redundant storylines/romances.

Thanks for reading!
Holly

Monday, July 9, 2018

Review: And the Good News Is by Dana Perino

26453658
Stand Alone
Format: Audio Book/Hardcover
Rating: 5 Stars
How I Got It: Library/Own
Genre: Non-Fiction/Memoir
Publisher: Hachette/Tweleve

Synopsis courtesy of Goodreads

Thoughtful, inspiring and often surprising, AND THE GOOD NEWS IS... traces Dana's unlikely journey through politics, the White House, and television. She has an uncanny ability for knowing what to say and how best to say it. AND THE GOOD NEWS IS... blends a candid self-portrait with advice for allowing your own grace, optimism, smarts and personality to shine through, emphasizing that dignity and civility are choices that only we can make for ourselves. A recurring theme in AND THE GOOD NEWS IS...is that planning has never worked for Dana; every time she has made a plan, something unexpected-and often better-has happened.

Review

I own the physical copy of this, but listened to the audio book. I just prefer to listen to my non-fiction. I would've prefered Dana Perino actually read it, but the narrator.

This book does address politics, but it is more than that. I believe Dana's story and outlook on life transcend politics. She has a strong work ethic and a positive outlook on life. You can tell how much she cares about people when reading through her stories.

I almost cried hearing about the lose of her dog, Henry. I was shopping in Michael's and barely kept it together. And I couldn't stop smiling when she was telling the story of how she met and fell in love with her husband, Peter. Their story is cute and like a freaking romance novel.

Anyone could take something of value from this book, but I would particularly recommend it to young women. She addresses the struggles of being a professional woman, being happy, and maintaining healthy and happy relationships. Now, I have to read/listen to her other book.

Thanks for reading!
Holly

Friday, July 6, 2018

June Wrap-Up (2018)

June was another slower month (for reading) which I expected. I ended up finishing 8 books. I also started 2 but didn't get far enough to even consider them DNFs.

My month was very busy between work and personal/family things. I was out of town for a week for a work seminar. The seminar was very productive, but also exhausting. I had my dance recital which was so much fun. In less fun news, I had to take my mom to several doctors' appointments. She starts chemo in July. I have to take her to her first session, but then she should be strong enough to drive herself. She is doing well, but is fed up being poked and prodded.

Life may be crazy, but I think I'm starting to figure out a workable schedule/routine. This will hopefully free up some more reading time, too. I have a ton of NetGalley books to get reviewed so I'm going to have to get to reading.

Here are the books I read in June and their ratings:

As Long as You Love Me-4 Stars
36102966

Infini-5 Stars
25510924

Risk of Rogues-3 Stars
37678819

When He was Wicked-4 Stars
110396

Lone Star Princess-2 Stars
40194389

And the Good News Is-5 Stars
26453658

It's in His Kiss-3.5 Stars
110393

Tight Quarters-3 Stars
39675783

Thanks for reading!
Holly