Blue Moon Kisses by Cindy Roland Anderson

Blue Moon Kisses by Cindy Roland Anderson
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Adorable!

I really enjoyed this one! Ashlee has had a childhood crush on her brother's best friend Beau for most of her life, but he only has ever looked at her as a little sister. He joins the military and they go their separate ways. Jump ahead six years and when they both return to their small hometown they're reunited and realize a lot has changed in those six years and she's not so little or sister-like anymore.

I was sucked into this one right from the start and ended up staying up way to late reading, if I didn't have to get my kids up and ready for school the next morning I probably would have stayed up even later to finished. I was actually glad I was able to get my kids off to school and then finish up this morning. I really enjoyed the story and characters. Ashlee and Beau are both likable leads and have amazing chemistry. It's nice that they've known each other for so long and it was fun to watch as they realized their feelings for each other went beyond friendship.

Overall, this was the perfect escape for me. I liked reunited with past characters (stands well on its own) and I love the small-town charm. Definitely a favorite series of mine and one I would totally recommend!

Content
Romance: Clean- Kissing and talk of waiting for marriage
Language: None
Violence: None-Mild...talk of a date(s) getting a little handsy
Religious: None
Series: Georgia Moon series, Book Three. Can stand well on its own

Source: Review copy


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The Rise of Miss Notley by Rachael Anderson

The Rise of Miss Notley by Rachael Anderson
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Loved it!

While I love regencies that take place during the busy London season, I also adore the ones that take place away in the country. Gives us a whole new perspective of the time period and what their lives were like during that time. I also feel like the people become a bit more real, not so controlled by the rules of society and the upper ton.

Miss Coralynn Notley’s family has gained their riches through trade, something very much frowned upon by society. Her parents are eager to join the upper ton and have arranged a marriage between Cora and the first titled gentleman they could find. Always being strong and not allowing her parents to push her around, Cora flees her home and seeks her own path. Never feeling quite like she belongs and not knowing where else to turn, Cora seeks a position as a housekeeper at Tanglewood Manor.

I really loved Cora's character. Ms. Anderson has a way of not only writing characters I like, but characters that actually make me want to be a better person. That's what Cora was like for me, I loved her outlook on life and forgiveness. She's very kind and hardworking, but also fun and brings out the best in those around her. Mr. Jonathan Ludlow was also a very likable hero, a bit gruff at times, but has a very kind heart. Cora intrigues him from the start and he feels himself constantly drawn to her, despite her constantly messing up as his housekeeper. They have great chemistry and I kept wondering how they'd ever find a way to be together.

Filled with likable characters, an assortment of endearing supporting characters and a quaint country setting. The writing was well done, I was quickly drawn into the story and transported back in time to a charming regency world. It stands well on its own, but it was fun seeing Lord and Lady Drayson make an appearance and meeting Lady Harriet has me eagerly awaiting her book, which comes out this fall!

I'd definitely recommend to any regency fans, or just anyone who enjoys a sweet romance.

Content
Romance: Clean, swoony kisses
Language: None
Violence: None
Series: Tanglewood, Book Two - stands on its own

Source: Review copy (review 100% my own)


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Edenbrooke by Julianne Donaldson

Edenbrooke by Julianne Donaldson
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Love!

Each time I read this I seem to fall in love just a little bit more. It really is one of my very favorite regencies. I remember when it first came out I was drawn to its beautiful cover, it really fits the story so well.

Marianne is a likable heroine, a bit blind at times and so modest that she couldn't possibly imagine that anyone would chose her over her beautiful twin Cecily. After the tragic death of her mother, she is separated from her twin and sent to live with her grandmother in Bath. Unlike her sister, she prefers the quiet country life and is unhappy living in a bigger city. Marianne is witty, kind and has an innocence that is endearing.

Philip is the ideal hero, it's no surprise that so many people have added him to their "book boyfriend" list. He is just the kind of regency hero that I adore, a true gentleman. He is kind, charming, full of integrity and he just treats Marianne so well. I really loved everything about him, very swoon-worthy.

Philip and Marianne have an awesome love story, while there is an attraction, I loved that they actually build a friendship first. They're is an easy report between them and you can really feel their connection. Marianne is shy and inexperienced, which I thought was realistic for the time period, and while Philip’s intentions may be obvious to us. Marianne is also loyal to a fault and put others needs ahead of her own, which helps explain why I think she purposefully chooses to ignore what's right in front of her.

I loved the writing, it flowed really well and was written in a way that you’re able to get lost in the story and forget that you’re reading. I also loved the supporting characters, especially Philip’s aunt, uncle and mother. Every time I read this I secretly hope that Cecily will get her own book. She is easily swayed by her friendships and worldly pursuits, I just think there is a lot of potential there to see her grow and mature. While I didn't really like Cecily, there were a few times we see glimpses of a genuine person beneath her sometimes self-centered persona and I think it would be fun to see her get her own book.

Overall, a light and fun regency romance. Would recommend to fans of Courting Miss Lancaster and Miss Burton Unmasks a Prince.

Content
Romance: Clean and swoony
Language: None
Violence: Mild

Source: Kindle and paperback



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Not Always Happenstance by Rachael Anderson

Not Always Happenstance by Rachael Anderson
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Loved it!

Whenever a new book of Rachael's comes out I have to drop everything and read it right away. Her books just click with me, I love the unique settings and storylines. The characters are always so real and I love the romance! She's great at writing witty dialog and building up the chemistry. I also love that each of her books takes place somewhere new, I love learning about new places through her books. This one happens to take place in Hawaii, I'm crossing my fingers I can go there for our next duty station (hubby is in the military) and after reading this book it made me want to go there even more!

Lani was a great character, she gave up everything to move to Hawaii to help a grandmother she barely knew with her Bed & Breakfast. She quickly fell in love with her grandmother and Hawaii. What started out as a temporary visit, turned into five years. I loved how Lani was with people, very caring and fun. I loved her directness and how she expects more from people. She was an easy character to like and root for. You want to see her find her happily ever after.

I wasn't sure about Easton at first, he seemed a bit of a player. I guess his lifestyle made it seem more that way, he never let himself get too attached to the people or places he visited. He was not expecting Lani and it was fun to see his orderly life get shaken up a bit. It's easy to fall for his charm and easygoing personality. I loved his kindness and willingness to jump in and help without hesitation.

I wasn't quite sure how things would play out with these two, both come from different backgrounds and had different life goals. I like stories like this were a couple learns to compromise and that doesn't mean you have to give up who you are, just make yourself open to other possibilities, better ones when you're with the one you love. I love the messages throughout and the supporting characters, Pearl and Puna.

Overall, I thoroughly enjoyed this one! A great escape and like always a lovely story that drew me in and wouldn't let go until the very end. Highly recommend!

Content
Romance: Clean
Language: None
Violence: None
Religious: None
Read again: ABSOLUTELY!

*I received an advanced copy in exchange for an honest review. I'll be buying a hardcopy for my collection!

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Not Always Happenstance by Rachael Anderson

Not Always Happenstance by Rachael Anderson
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Loved it!

Whenever a new book of Rachael's comes out I have to drop everything and read it right away. Her books just click with me, I love the unique settings and storylines. The characters are always so real and I love the romance! She's great at writing witty dialog and building up the chemistry. I also love that each of her books takes place somewhere new, I love learning about new places through her books. This one happens to take place in Hawaii, I'm crossing my fingers I can go there for our next duty station (hubby is in the military) and after reading this book it made me want to go there even more!

Lani was a great character, she gave up everything to move to Hawaii to help a grandmother she barely knew with her Bed & Breakfast. She quickly fell in love with her grandmother and Hawaii. What started out as a temporary visit, turned into five years. I loved how Lani was with people, very caring and fun. I loved her directness and how she expects more from people. She was an easy character to like and root for. You want to see her find her happily ever after.

I wasn't sure about Easton at first, he seemed a bit of a player. I guess his lifestyle made it seem more that way, he never let himself get too attached to the people or places he visited. He was not expecting Lani and it was fun to see his orderly life get shaken up a bit. It's easy to fall for his charm and easygoing personality. I loved his kindness and willingness to jump in and help without hesitation.

I wasn't quite sure how things would play out with these two, both come from different backgrounds and had different life goals. I like stories like this were a couple learns to compromise and that doesn't mean you have to give up who you are, just make yourself open to other possibilities, better ones when you're with the one you love. I love the messages throughout and the supporting characters, Pearl and Puna.

Overall, I thoroughly enjoyed this one! A great escape and like always a lovely story that drew me in and wouldn't let go until the very end. Highly recommend!

Content
Romance: Clean
Language: None
Violence: None
Religious: None
Read again: ABSOLUTELY!

*I received an advanced copy in exchange for an honest review. I'll be buying a hardcopy for my collection!

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Getting Kole for Christmas by Kimberly Krey

Getting Kole for Christmas: A Young Adult Novella by Kimberly Krey
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

So Stinkin' Cute!!

This was such a fun novella. Kylie is a junior in high school and never been asked to a school dance. She's had to sit by as her older twin sisters get asked to every dance, and now it looks like her younger sister is going to the Christmas dance and she'll be left out once again. Her dream date is her good friend, Kole. This was just a fun story, I enjoyed every minute. Ms. Krey transitions to the Teen Lit genre effortlessly, as much as I adore her adult contemporaries, I hope she writes more YA as well. Keep us on our toes! ;)

Content: Clean!

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Mending Hearts by Kimberly Krey

Mending Hearts by Kimberly Krey
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Another hit!

I'm never disappointed when I pick up a Kimberly Krey book. She has definitely been added to me go-to author list.

Candice and Logan have been married for ten years, after suffering through a lot of trials they've decided to separate. To be honest, I was a little upset with Candice at first, but I grew to like her as the book progressed and having experienced some of the things she went through, I could understand why she put up the walls she did. Logan was great! He is deeply in love with Candice and will do whatever it takes to win her back. They really do have a sweet relationship, I liked that it took time to build things back up and that they had to do some self discovery and didn't rush things.

Overall, this was an enjoyable read, didn't want to put it down. It's the second book in the series, but stands well on it's own. Another thing I love about Krey's books, the characters overlap a bit, but each book stands really well on its own. I am really looking forward to the next book!

Content
Romance: Clean, mild innuendo and closed door intimacy
Language: Mild
Violence: None
Religious: None

Source: Review copy

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Blackmoore by Julianne Donaldson

Kate Worthington knows her heart and she knows she will never marry. Her plan is to travel to India instead—if only to find peace for her restless spirit and to escape the family she abhors. But Kate’s meddlesome mother has other plans. She makes a bargain with Kate: India, yes, but only after Kate has secured—and rejected—three marriage proposals.

Kate journeys to the stately manor of Blackmoore determined to fulfill her end of the bargain and enlists the help of her dearest childhood friend, Henry Delafield. But when it comes to matters of love, bargains are meaningless and plans are changeable. There on the wild lands of Blackmoore, Kate must face the truth that has kept her heart captive. Will the proposal she is determined to reject actually be the one thing that will set her heart free?

I was so excited when I saw this was available for review on Netgalley (what a great website!), but I admit I was a tiny bit nervous as well. Would it be as good as Edenbrooke? Well, I was not disappointed. Right from the start I knew I was going to like this one, especially our hero Henry. He was perfect, I loved everything about him. He has the best lines; I had to re-read a few of the scenes between him and Kate. I thought Henry and Kate had great chemistry, I loved them together. You do wonder though how things are going to work out and what is keeping them apart. I loved the flashback scenes and a part of me wanted to slap Kate for not realizing what was in front of her! But, I can’t go into that without spoilers, but it does make sense why. I liked Kate, even more as the story goes on. She was  genuinely a good person and has a good heart. I like that even though she is still discovering herself, she was confident and intelligent. She sees the good in others and doesn’t hold grudges for those who do not like her. Her family was awful! Her mother, wow. There are just so many things I’d like to write, but I don’t want to give any spoilers.

I thought Blackmoore had a different feel to it than Edenbrooke, maybe it was the obstacles they had to overcome to be together, or how awful Kate’s family is. But the romance was great, filled with tension and the wondering if things are going to work out. All I know is, Henry gives Phillip a run for his money! It was a great story with great characters. I again loved the scenes with Henry and Kate, especially on the tower. Mmmm. This is one of those books you’ll want to re-read as soon as you finish.

Content: Clean.

Pivot Point by Kasie West

Knowing the outcome doesn’t always make a choice easier . . .

Addison Coleman’s life is one big “What if?” As a Searcher, whenever Addie is faced with a choice, she can look into the future and see both outcomes. It’s the ultimate insurance plan against disaster. Or so she thought. When Addie’s parents ambush her with the news of their divorce, she has to pick who she wants to live with—her father, who is leaving the paranormal compound to live among the “Norms,” or her mother, who is staying in the life Addie has always known. Addie loves her life just as it is, so her answer should be easy. One Search six weeks into the future proves it’s not.

In one potential future, Addie is adjusting to life outside the Compound as the new girl in a Norm high school where she meets Trevor, a cute, sensitive artist who understands her. In the other path, Addie is being pursued by the hottest guy in school—but she never wanted to be a quarterback’s girlfriend. When Addie’s father is asked to consult on a murder in the Compound, she’s unwittingly drawn into a dangerous game that threatens everything she holds dear. With love and loss in both lives, it all comes down to which reality she’s willing to live through . . . and who she can’t live without.

Review:

I was really impressed with this one! I thought the plot was pretty original and the writing was really well done. Our lead Addie was likable and easy to relate to. I liked her sarcastic personality. She has the ability when presented with a choice to see how things will play out depending on which decision she makes. The story alternates between two possible futures and at the end she has to decide which path to take. What an interesting superpower! Addie doesn’t abuse her power and up until now has only used it for short time frames. We also have a couple love interests, Duke and Trevor. It’s not your typical love-triangle though and I really liked how it was handled. It was fun to see how these two different relationships play out. I started out on one team and ended up on another. I ended up loving the relationship between Trevor and Addie. Trevor was great, I especially liked when he finally made his interest know. I liked that they had a friendship first and it grows to more. I did like Duke though, and even despite everything, I still like him. I also liked how the stories kind of overlap, things that would happen in one “reality” would happen in the other. As the story progresses a couple mysteries are presented as well, I thought that added some fun suspense to the story. Especially the end, there are a few surprises thrown in that added a lot. I was glad there was an epilogue, it wrapped things up nicely. I’m excited to read the next book!

Content: Clean. Mild violence.

The Reluctant Bachelorette by Rachael Anderson

Synopsis:
Unknowingly cast as the bachelorette for her town’s charity event, Taycee Emerson wants out. Especially when she discovers her old teenage crush, Luke Carney, is one of the bachelors and it's up to the viewers--not her--to decide which bachelors stay or go. Coerced into participating, Taycee does what any self-preserving girl would do. She launches a subtle attack on Luke’s good name with the hope of getting him voted off the show. Unfortunately, Luke's an eye-for-an-eye kind of guy, and when he discovers what she's up to, it means revenge. But when their pranks go south, will they screw up any chance they have at a future together, or will they be able to forgive and forget and prove that love really does conquer all?

Review:

So, so good. You can never go wrong with a Rachael Anderson book. This may be my favorite of hers so far. Even though it’s a little cheesy, my husband and I love to watch The Bachelor. It’s been a tradition of ours since we were first married and we love our Bachelor nights. So, when I heard Rachael’s next book had a similar theme I couldn’t wait to read it. When I saw on her blog yesterday that the book was finally available I immediately bought it. Even if you're not a fan of the TV show, you'...moreSo, so good. You can never go wrong with a Rachael Anderson book. This may be my favorite of hers so far. Even though it’s a little cheesy, my husband and I love to watch The Bachelor. It’s been a tradition of ours since we were first married and we love our Bachelor nights. So, when I heard Rachael’s next book had a similar theme I couldn’t wait to read it. When I saw on her blog yesterday that the book was finally available I immediately bought it. Even if you're not a fan of the TV show, you'd enjoy this book. I really liked that the story didn’t unfold how I thought it would. I liked how Taycee and Luke’s story progressed and by the end you are totally rooting for them. Taycee was a really likable lead. You can’t help buy feel for her sitation. I thought the idea and version of the Bachelorette that they did was really believable. In fact, I wanted to go onto their website and watch some of Taycee’s dates! I liked that the show was for charity to help out the people of her town. Taycee has loved Luke for ages, since they were kids. He left for college and never looked back. Even after all their years apart she couldn’t get him out of her heart. Luke had moved on, but realized he was missing something from his life and went back to his childhood home to try and find what he was missing. I loved their first encounter after not seeing each other for ten years. I actually liked all their encounters, they had great chemistry. I thought this was a great story. The characters were well developed and while it’s a nice romantic comedy type book, it also had nice depth to it. It’s a nice feel good story and one I will definitely read again. Rachael, I know this just came out yesterday, but I can't wait for more. When is your next book coming out?? :) Content: Clean

She Owns the Knight by Diane Darcy

Review:

I really loved this one. It kind of reminded me of a more lighthearted Waterfall by Lisa Bergren. Gillian was a very likable heroine, as Kellen says, she’s charming. She seems to charm all those around her, you just can’t help but like her. She is visiting England and sketching an old rundown castle when some guys approach her with not the nicest intent. As she runs from them she is transported 700 years back in time and ends up at Kellen Marshalls castle. Kellen is expecting his new bride and assumes Gillian is his betrothed. She knows his real fiancé is on her way and only has a few weeks to figure out how to get back to the present day, but decides to make the best of the situation. I mean Kellen is hot, so why not?

Kellen has been hurt by his first wife and has a lot of baggage. It was so cute to see Gillian break down his walls, just by being kind and flirty. Kellen falls for Gillian right away, it was fun to see how loyal he was to her right from the get go. They are really cute together. I admit, the whole time I was nervous for how Kellen would react when he learned Gillian was not Edith, but was pleasantly surprised with how everything wraps up. I also liked the tiny side story of Marissa and her husband (Kellen’s dad), thought they also had a sweet story.

I thought the author did a great job of tying up loose ends, even some I had forgotten about. I thought this was a great lighthearted romance, with still enough tension to keep things interesting.

Content: Clean. Flirty innuendo.