Favorite Books of 2016!!

2016 was an amazing year for books! I laughed.. I cried.. I got so angry I wanted to throw my kindle across the room.. I let out a lot of dreamy sighs.. and I loved every minute of it! I found new authors that I absolutely adore and wait with great anticipation for their next book baby to be released! I was able to read over 100 books! Some of these books were just SO good that I had to read them twice! Yes, I said TWICE.. that is how much I LOVED them!

Before I look ahead to the New Year and new books, I thought I would pay tribute to some of these favorites that I fell in love with in 2016. And if choosing my top 15 books wasn't hard enough, I took the challenge from my friend Katie to only choose ONE book per author. Holy. Crow. Batman! That made this TOUGH! Some may say I cheated on one of them but in my defense it technically was ONE book! 😉 Hehe.

I will tell you that my list is not in any particular order. I absolutely LOVED all these books and there is NO WAY I'll be able to choose a ranking for them! It just is NOT possible! So don't even ask!

So... without further adieu... here are my TOP 15 of 2016!!

To Warm a Wintered Heart by Deborah M. Hathaway

Wrong Brother, Right Match by Jennifer Shirk

A Season to Love by Nicole Deese

The Thirteenth Chance by Amy Matayo

Chasing Fireflies by Taylor Dean

Arms of Promise by Crystal Walton

Pimpernel by Sheralyn Pratt

Explosive Chemistry by Sharon Landis

Making Faces by Amy Harmon

Hawaiian Masquerade by Rachelle J. Christensen

Shadows in the Curtain by Cami Checketts

Duchess by Nikki Wilson

Winters Rising (Clean Edition) by Shannyn Leah

Love Under Construction by Danyelle Ferguson

Jessie Belle by Jennifer Peel

Taylor Lynne by Jennifer Peel

Rachel Laine by Jennifer Peel

Head on over to Katie and Kathy's blog to check out their favorites of 2016!

Katie's Clean Book Collection
Bookworm Nation

What were some of YOUR favorites of 2016?! Inquiring minds want to know! 😉

I am really looking forward to 2017! I just know it will be filled with lots of love, family, friendships, treasured memories and of course BOOKS!

Wishing all you book lovers out there a very safe, healthy and Happy New Year! Let's make 2017 the BESTEST year yet! 💜

How to Get Over Your Ex in Ninety Days by Jennifer Peel

Synopsis:

How to Get Over Your Ex in Ninety Days

• Break off all contact for ninety days.
• Stay away from social media.
• Remember all the things you liked to do when you were single and revisit those activities.
• Think carefully about starting any new romantic attachments.
• Wine, lots of wine. No, don’t. It could end badly.
• Be mindful of anxiety and feelings of hopelessness.
• Remind yourself it takes ninety days for your mind to switch gears and picture your life in a new direction.

Presley Benson thinks she found the perfect plan to get over her ex-boyfriend, Jackson Montgomery. All she needs is ninety days. There’s a problem, though. Jackson Montgomery is the newly appointed vice principal of Riverton High School where she teaches drama.

And oh yeah, he wants her back.

So what’s a girl to do? Stick with the plan of course.

My Review: 5 Stars!

Presley is on cloud nine! Everything is finally falling into place. She has an amazing family, wonderful friends, a job that she loves and Jackson, the love of her life, is on the verge of proposing to her. She. Can. Not. Wait! So imagine her shock when Jackson shows up at her house and breaks up with her! Wait... what?! Where did THAT come from?! This was NOT in their plans! What is Presley supposed to do now?! 

After running to her best friend Capri and crying her eyes out, the girls devise a plan that will help Presley get over Jackson in ninety days. Ninety days. That's it. She's got this! Soon Mr. What's-His-Face will be a distant memory. Years down the road she'll the thinking, Jackson who?!

The one thing that Presley doesn't plan for?! Jackson wanting her back! But there is no way on this green earth that she will ever take him back. No way. Now how. Never! Get it?! 

*insert sly grin here* Challenge excepted.

Jackson has regretted breaking up with Presley from the moment the words passed through his lips. But what choice does he have? Too many things are happening all at once and he's trying to do what he thinks is best for all involved. The only problem? He is completely miserable! What has he done? Presley doesn't even want to be friends with him. He tries his best to move forward but he just can't. How can he without Presley by his side?

Jackson knows that he has his work cut out for him when it comes to winning Presley back. But never underestimate a man in love. He will pull out all the stops and jump through all the hoops to get his forever love back where she belongs. He doesn't care who stands in his way. Failure is NOT an option. Presley doesn't stand a chance! ;)

I absolutely LOVED Ninety Days! It has everything that makes an AMAZING book! The feels are definitely real my friends! You will laugh out loud, get teary eyed, growl in frustration, let out little dreamy sighs and cheer our hero and heroine on as they figure out what's most important to them and strive to achieve their happily ever after! 

Ms. Peel has done it again! She was able to suck me in from the very beginning and not let me go until the very end! I love all the journeys she takes us on and can't wait to see what she has in store for us next! 

And of course there is no way I can forget my casting! These two just scream Southern Charm to me! And I love them! What about you?! 

*I voluntarily reviewed an advanced reader copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are solely my own.*

Cookie Girl Christmas by Christene Houston

Synopsis:

Molly Hayes has one more job before Christmas and then she can put her plans for a storefront bakery of her own in motion.

What she doesn't bargain for is the handsome young Scrooge who insults her cookies and makes her blood boil. Toss in a heaping helping of snowstorm and a pinch of romantic old Inn and you've got yourself the perfect recipe for a not-so-silent-night.

My Review: 5 Stars!!

Molly is the proud owner of The Cookie Jar, a successful bakery and party planning business. She has dreams of owning her own storefront bakery. With one more job to do before Christmas, she will finally be able to make her dream a reality. She thinks that with a successful business, she will have everything she will ever need. Yes, she's single and lonely but after the devastation of losing her mom, she just can't let herself love anyone again. She lost too much and doesn't think she'd be able to overcome loss a second time. She just did not plan on the handsome, cocky, annoying Greyson Davenport turning her life and plans upside down!

Greyson is no stranger to loss and decides after years of being away, he would spend Christmas with his dad, stepmom and 2 little sisters. However, things are just too hard for him and he closes up. Defensive, hurt and angry, he lashes out at everyone around him, including Molly.

From the very first meeting, there was instant chemistry between our sweet Molly and handsome Greyson. Things got off to a rocky start but the more effort Molly puts in to each party and activity, she slowly starts to melt the ice around Greyson's heart. When he finally opens up to her, it was the sweetest moment. She really doesn't want to like him, but the more she listens to him and gets to know him, the more she wants to open up to him and share her story. Watching the relationship of Molly and Greyson develop was beautiful! These two were seriously made for each other! Life has been tough for both of them but together they can make it better and learn to love and be happy.

Cookie Girl Christmas is seriously one of the best books I have read in a long time! I loved every minute of it! This book is one that I will definitely be reading again and again. Especially around Christmas time! There is a deeper meaning to this story that really helped to put me in the Christmas spirit. It has also opened my eyes to all the blessings I have in my life, both big and small. I am determined to have a heart full of gratitude this Christmas and to spread it around as much as I can! I can't wait to read the next book in this series!

What do you think about my casting?! These two are the perfect Molly and Greyson... in my opinion! ;) Hehe.

My Christmas TBR List!

I absolutely LOVE Christmas! The pretty lights, trees, songs, chilly weather, yummy candies and treats, family, friends, food and of course BOOKS! Christmas themed books are SO much fun to read! It is something that I look forward to doing all year long!

So I thought this year I would dedicate the month of December to nothing but Christmas books! Fun, right?! And since I'm sure there are a few of you out there that feel the same way I do about Christmas books, I thought it would be fun to share my list with all of you! I also want to know what YOU will be reading this month!

Are you ready?! Then let's share! ;o)

Here's my Christmas TBR list:

One Enchanted Eve by Melissa Tagg
Kissing Santa by Heather Horrocks
Cookie Girl Christmas by Christene Houston
Married to Santa by Beverly Farr
The Faithful One by Cami Checketts
A Cliche Christmas by Nicole Deese
The Chimney Sweep Charm by Marcia Lynn McClure
Take a Walk With Me by Marcia Lynn McClure

Ambitious? Yes! Am I going to read them all? No clue! Will I add more? Probably! I'm giving myself lots and lots of options! ;o) Hehe,

So what about you?! What do you plan on reading this month? Inquiring minds want to know!

Ginger by Lucy McConnell

Synopsis:

Christmas Magic is changing and the Kringle Family scrambles to keep up in this fun and romantic, sweet Christmas romance from Author Lucy McConnell.

When Ginger Kringle is branded to wear the magic red suit, she has to fall in love and get married before Christmas Eve to save the family business. After being given a list (Santas love lists!) of potential Mr. Kringles, Ginger heads off to Clearview, Alaska, where she embarks on a mission to save her family, their home, the elves, the reindeer, and Christmas for children across the globe. In her quest, Ginger finds that checking a list has much more to do with her heart than it does her head.

My Review: 3.5 Stars

Ginger's life has just been turned upside down. Who would have thought that Santa's middle daughter would be the one chosen to wear the magical red suit? It should have been her oldest sister, Robyn. After all, she is the one that's been looking forward to carrying on the family legacy her whole life. But for reasons no one understands, Ginger has been chosen over Robyn. But that's not the only thing she has to deal with. Ginger has less than a month to find, fall in love and marry a Mr. Claus or else Christmas will be ruined forever. Thank goodness for Santa and his list. It should make Ginger's life easier, right? Right?!

Joseph's life has also just been turned upside down. His flighty sister has just dropped his niece, Layla, on his doorstep for him to take care of while she goes off in search of a fresh start to life. She'll be back for her daughter once she's back on her feet. But Joseph knows better. She's never been able to stay in once place for very long. It'll be years before he sees his sister again. But he can't think about that right now. He's got to put Layla first and help give her a better life than he or his sister ever had. The only problem? Christmas is around the corner and he absolutely hates Christmas. Layla on on the other hand absolutely loves Christmas! Can he put his hatred for the season aside in order to make happy memories for Layla? 

From the moment Ginger and Joseph meet, there's an instant connection, a zap that can't be ignored. But he's not on her list of "Santa approved grooms" and she's got too much Christmas joy going on. Will they continue to let their heads guide them through life? Or will they be able to open their hearts and accept what Christmas magic has in store for them? 

The premises of this book was definitely cute and I was hoping that I would love it. But alas... I just ended up liking it. I wish that we would've seen Ginger and Joseph interact more than they did. The story kind of dragged for me and I knew the ending would be rushed. However, with all that being said, it was a good start to what I think will be a fun series. I will definitely give the next book in the series a try. :)

This one was fun to cast. I have to say I saw our heroine pretty early on. Our hero on the other hand was harder to nail down. I was torn between two guys and finally decided on this one. What do you think?!

First Line Friday's #12

Ok party people! It's that time again! First Line Friday's hosted by my amazing friend Kathy over at Bookworm Nation! Are you ready?! 

This week's First Line Friday is:

Ginger by Lucy McConnell

Christmas Magic is changing and the Kringle Family scrambles to keep up in this fun and romantic, sweet Christmas romance from Author Lucy McConnell.

When Ginger Kringle is branded to wear the magic red suit, she has to fall in love and get married before Christmas Eve to save the family business. After being given a list (Santas love lists!) of potential Mr. Kringles, Ginger heads off to Clearview, Alaska, where she embarks on a mission to save her family, their home, the elves, the reindeer, and Christmas for children across the globe. In her quest, Ginger finds that checking a list has much more to do with her heart than it does her head.

FIRST LINE

"Santa rushed down the Hall of Santa's Past. His heavy black boots thumped the carpet with the force of a thousand reindeer hooves, shaking the portraits."

Lucy McConnell is one of my favorite authors! So when I saw that she had released a new Christmas romance, you better believe that I grabbed it! I think this will be a perfect book to help get me in the Christmas book spirit! I absolutely LOVE Christmas books! They make me SO happy! <3

Do you want to participate in First Line? Yes?! Then tell us what your First Line is! Are you going to do a blog post? Then don't forget to link your post back to Bookworm Nation! Post your link in the comments. Don't have a blog? No worries! Just leave a comment with the title, author name and first line.

Ready?! And GO!

To Warm a Wintered Heart by Deborah M. Hathaway

Synopsis:

After an uneventful season in Bath, Miss Charlotte Rosebury returns home to Warwickshire, looking forward to a visit from her mother’s friend. Their expected guest, Mrs. Worthington, has promised that her son will be accompanying her, and as Charlotte has only ever heard stories of the gentleman who rarely leaves his Yorkshire estate, she is most pleased to meet him. But when her warm welcome is returned with a fierce frown from the handsome man, she cannot help but long to be free of him and his blue-eyed glare.
​
Despite his mother’s protests, Mr. Gabriel Worthington had made the decision long ago to remain unmarried, but when he meets Charlotte, doubts about his decision creep into his fearful mind, and he wishes for nothing more than to flee from the woman and never return.

For weeks, the two are forced to live within the same home, and though they provoke one another with teasing and stolen glances, an unlikely friendship blossoms between them, a friendship that grows stronger than either of them had expected. Will Gabriel concede to the choices binding his heart, or can Charlotte’s warmth be just the thing to strengthen their love and, at last, end their fears?

My Review 5 Stars

Charlotte is happy to be home from their season in Bath. She is even happier when she discovers that her mother's long time friend, Mrs. Worthington, is coming for a visit. But what's even better? Mrs. Worthington has somehow convinced her son, Gabriel, to accompany her. Charlotte has only ever heard stories of Gabriel and is definitely looking forward to meeting him. But when they finally arrive and Gabriel is far from agreeable, Charlotte finds herself trying to work extra hard to be his friend. How could someone as sweet as Mrs. Worthington have such a horrible son?!

Gabriel had only agreed to accompany his mother to Brightwood when he thought that the Roseburys had no daughters out in society yet. But when he discovers the truth he is beyond frustrated. He can't believe his mother is at it again. How many times does he have to tell her that he has sworn off marriage? He thought she understood his reasons for never getting married. Surely the Roseburys have something to do with his mother's latest scheme. Why else would they be so insistent on him coming for a visit. Well, he will set them all straight. He has no intentions of marrying anyone, especially Charlotte. 

Charlotte and Gabriel definitely did not get off to a good start. While Charlotte does her best to befriend Gabriel, Gabriel does his best to discourage any contact with Charlotte. He cannot allow his heart to soften. He must stay strong in his resolve to never be married. But there is just something about Charlotte that Gabriel can't ignore. The more time they spend together, the better they get to know one another, the softer Gabriel's heart becomes. Between all their banter, misunderstandings, chess games, time in the stables, walks in the gardens, Gabriel can't get Charlotte out of his mind or his heart. Can he remain just friends with Charlotte? Or will he finally listen to his heart, take a chance on love and reach for his happily ever after with her?  

I absolutely LOVED Charlotte and Gabriel! Their story is just what I needed! I found myself laughing out loud, growling in frustration, getting teary eyed, sitting on the edge of my seat, letting out little dreamy sighs and smiling throughout the book. The feels were definitely real and I enjoyed every single moment I spent reading this book. :) 

As some of you may know, I burned myself out on historical and regency era books a couple of years ago and I am slowly trying to get myself back into them. And I have to say that To Warm a Wintered Heart did NOT disappoint! You know a book has completely sucked me in when I am contemplating calling in sick to work. But alas, I chose to be an adult and go. But I did squeeze in as much reading as I could on my breaks... ;) 

This is my second book by Ms. Hathaway and just like the first book, I absolutely loved it! I can't wait to see what other adventures she has in store for us!

And of course my review just wouldn't be complete without my casting! I absolutely LOVE these two and were able to picture them throughout the entire book! What do you think?!

Content: Mild Violence

*I received a copy of this book from the author to voluntarily review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.*

First Line Friday's #11

Ok party people! It's that time again! First Line Friday's hosted by my amazing friend Kathy over at Bookworm Nation! Are you ready?! 

This week's First Line Friday is:

To Warm a Wintered Heart by Deborah M. Hathaway

After an uneventful season in Bath, Miss Charlotte Rosebury returns home to Warwickshire, looking forward to a visit from her mother’s friend. Their expected guest, Mrs. Worthington, has promised that her son will be accompanying her, and as Charlotte has only ever heard stories of the gentleman who rarely leaves his Yorkshire estate, she is most pleased to meet him. But when her warm welcome is returned with a fierce frown from the handsome man, she cannot help but long to be free of him and his blue-eyed glare.
​
Despite his mother’s protests, Mr. Gabriel Worthington had made the decision long ago to remain unmarried, but when he meets Charlotte, doubts about his decision creep into his fearful mind, and he wishes for nothing more than to flee from the woman and never return.

For weeks, the two are forced to live within the same home, and though they provoke one another with teasing and stolen glances, an unlikely friendship blossoms between them, a friendship that grows stronger than either of them had expected. Will Gabriel concede to the choices binding his heart, or can Charlotte’s warmth be just the thing to strengthen their love and, at last, end their fears?

FIRST LINE

"Below a beaming sun and vivid blue sky, the town of Stratford-upon-Avon hummed with pleasant chatter as the market day crowds brimmed." 

I have only ever read one book by Ms. Hathaway but I remember absolutely loving it! From the synopsis, this one seems to have a Beauty and the Beast kind of feel to it. Or maybe a Pride and Prejudice kind of feel? Either way, I am definitely looking forward to Charlotte and Gabriel's story! Keep your eyes open for my review! ;) 

Do you want to participate in First Line? Yes?! Then tell us what your First Line is! Are you going to do a blog post? Then don't forget to link your post back to Bookworm Nation! Post your link in the comments. Don't have a blog? No worries! Just leave a comment with the title, author name and first line.

Ready?! And GO!

Wrong Brother, Right Match by Jennifer Shirk

Synopsis:

Matchmaking guru Kennedy Pepperdine’s life is perfect. Perfect job. Perfect friends. Perfect boyfriend. Except...when she gets trapped in an elevator with a handsome stranger, she accidentally confesses a secret: maybe her perfect boyfriend, Justin, isn’t so perfect for her after all. But a matchmaker should be able to successfully match herself, right? Thankfully, she’ll never see the handsome stranger again. Until she heads home with Justin for the holidays and learns that the sexy stranger is none other than Justin’s older brother, Matt.

Matt Ellis is trying to be on his best behavior for his mother—it is Christmas, after all. But when he recognizes the beautiful woman from the elevator—the one he hasn’t been able to stop thinking about for months—his best behavior is being held by a thread. Matt’s always sacrificed for his family, and nothing is more important than their happiness, but the more time he spends around Kennedy, the more he wonders if her supposed "right match" might just be the wrong brother.

My Review: 5 Stars

Kennedy + Matt + A bottle of champagne + A stuck elevator = A kiss that neither one of them will ever forget. What happens in Vegas, stays in Vegas. Right?!

Fast forward six months. 

Kennedy has everything she has worked her entire life for within reach. Loving friends, a growing business and a perfect fiance. She couldn't be happier! So why is she still thinking about that kiss with the handsome stranger, Matt? She loves Justin! And according to her matchmaking software, they are perfect for each other. So why is she second guessing herself?! She'll never see Matt again. She just needs to stay focused and move forward with Justin. If only he can make time for her in his "busy" schedule. *sigh*

It's been six months! Six months and Matt still cannot get the kiss with Kennedy out of his mind. He'll never see her again. Even if he did, he's been burned before and will never go down that road ever again. He needs a distraction. And it comes in the form of his brother, Justin, coming home for the holidays for the first time in years! But surprise! He's bringing his fiance with him! What?! When did he get engaged?!

They lied! What happens in Vegas does not stay in Vegas! If it did then Kennedy would definitely not be standing in the same room with Matt... her future brother-in-law! How can this be?! He cannot be here! She just needs to focus on her and Justin and stay far away from Matt! But that's just not possible when Justin heads back to the city for a work emergency and leaves her on the island with his family. This will be the perfect opportunity for them to get to know her! They all will love it! 

But the more time Kennedy and Matt spend together, the more their feelings for each other grow. They both fight it because neither one of them want to hurt Justin, even though the moron does NOT deserve Kennedy. 

But eventually the truth will need to be revealed and different paths will need to be chosen. It's definitely a journey but in the end the wrong bother will be the right match! *dreamy sigh*

Oh my gosh! I absolutely LOVED this book! I devoured it in one sitting! The feels were definitely real my friends! I laughed out loud, growled in frustration, got sad when things weren't going the way I wanted them to, and let out little dreamy sighs throughout the entire book.  I seriously loved Kennedy and Matt! They were absolutely perfect for each other! 

Ms. Shirk has done it again! This was such a fun series! I really need to start reading more books by her! She is quickly climbing my favorite authors list! 

And of course I can't forget my casting! This one was SO much fun to find! I LOVE them! What do you think?!

Content: Mild language.

*I voluntarily reviewed an advanced reader copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are solely my own.*

Cozumel Escape by Cami Checketts

Synopsis:

Brooks Hoffman, billionaire, loves women, expensive toys and fighting—in that order. A week romancing a beautiful woman on his private island is a great way to pass the time. When Sydnee Lee Swenson isn’t impressed with his money, or charmed by his…well, charm, Brooks takes it as a personal challenge to change her mind.

Sydnee Lee moved to Cozumel to volunteer at the local orphanage. She’s fallen in love with the children and doesn’t need a good-looking, over-confident, guy complicating things. Sending Brooks on his way, with just the right amount of sass, was the only option. But when Brooks puts his own life on the line for her and some of the orphaned children, she may have to take another look at the guy behind the muscles and money.

My Rating 4 Stars

Brooks had a pretty rough start in life. Between being abandoned by his mother at the age of 5, being bounced around from foster home to foster him, running away at the age of 8 and living on the streets until his adoptive father saved him and took him in at the age of 10, is it any wonder that the poor guy has a hard time with commitment? He's enjoyed his playboy life and has no plans of giving it up any time soon. Until he meets Sydnee. There is just something about her that has Brooks thinking long term and he doesn't quite know how to deal with it. 

Sydnee has moved from her home in Alabama to work at an orphanage in Cozumel. She loves what she does. The children mean everything to her and she can't see her life without them. Yes, she misses her home and family but this is where she is meant to be. When she first meets Brooks she wants absolutely nothing to do with him. His over confidence and charm has her walking out the door and far away from him. But when she finds out that he is the wealthy benefactor who is single handedly funding the orphanage she works at, she's afraid he'll pull his support if she doesn't agree to go on a date with him. 

It's definitely not an easy going relationship with these two. Sydnee is too busy jumping to all the wrong conclusions when it comes to Brooks that she misses seeing the real him. It isn't until they are visiting Zack and Maddie and their cute little family for Thanksgiving that she lets go of all pretenses and just enjoys getting to know him better. 

But will Brooks ever be able to overcome his past enough to let go and move forward with Sydnee? Or will Sydnee's constant pushing to change him and make him fit into what she wants in her life have him running in he opposite direction? Compromise, love and understanding will be key to their happily ever after. 

This is such a fun series! I am always on the look out for the next book, wondering which author will take us where and what adventures they have in store for us. It's a fun escape that's for sure! I can't seem to get enough of these clean billionaire books! 

And of course I can't forget my casting! Trust me... this guy definitely has muscles... I promise! ;) Hehe. 

Content: Mild violence. Mild religious aspects.

The Promise of Rayne by Nicole Deese

Synopsis:

Rayne Shelby has spent her entire life trying to earn the approval of her high-powered family, with the hope of one day managing her late grandfather’s prestigious Idaho lodge. But when she makes a mistake that puts her future in jeopardy, she faces an impossible choice: defy her family or deny her dream. The only way to fix the mess she’s created is to enlist the help of her neighbor, Levi, the apprentice of her family’s greatest enemy. And if Rayne gets caught crossing the divided property lines, the consequences will be irreparable.

Levi Harding has never forgotten the August night he shared with Rayne when they were teens—or the way she later rejected him. Despite his warring instincts, he can’t ignore her plea for help or the spark that’s ignited between them. But now, as wildfires bear down on their town and family secrets are revealed, their newfound alliance might just go up in smoke.

My Review: 5 Stars

Rayne has been groomed her entire life to be the perfect politicians daughter. She has done everything she has ever been told to do. But no matter what she does, she can never measure up to what her father and uncle want her to be. She always seems to disappoint them. 

But that never stops her. She continues to make sacrifice after sacrifice in hopes to prove to her father and uncle that she can carry on the legacy of the Shelby Lodge. She has big dreams of turning it into exactly what her grandfather wanted it to be. A place where the community can gather together to celebrate good times as well as come together in bad times and in times of need. 

One mistake. Just one. That's all it takes to put her future at the lodge in jeopardy. But with so much on the line, she can't afford to disappoint her uncle again. So, she does the unthinkable. She seeks help from Levi, who is the apprentice to her family's biggest enemy, Ford Winslow. 

Levi knows all about the feud between the Shelbys and Ford. He knows the lies that have been told and all the damage that has been done to his employer. But there is just something about Rayne Shelby that he just can't say no to. He agrees to help... for a price. 

But once the arrangement has been completed, he has a hard time staying away from Rayne. He feels drawn to her, protective of her. He's determined to get her to open her eyes and see all the lies and damage her family has done over the years. Only then will they be able to move forward to the future. 

But with no real answers from her uncle, Rayne is forced to set out on the path of discovery. Discovery of who she is, discovery of what her grandfather's legacy truly is, discovery of love, discovery of truth, discovery of forgiveness. 

In the end, Rayne will discover the truth. She will discover that she's enough. She will discover where she's meant to be and who she's meant to be with. She will discover The Promise of Rayne. 

Wow! Just wow! Those were my thoughts the moment I finished this book. Nicole Deese has a way of kidnapping you from real life, placing you in her books and taking you on an adventure with her characters. You feel like you are right there with them, experiencing everything they are, feeling everything they do. She has you rooting for the good guys, wanting to crush the bad guys and of course swooning over all the sweet, romantic moments. She has quickly become one of my favorite authors and I look forward to reading more by her! 

And of course no review would be complete without a casting. These two are definitely swoon worthy, am I right?! *dreamy sigh*

*I received a complimentary copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are solely my own.*

Bayside Wishes by Stacy Claflin

Synopsis:
She’s guarding a family secret. He’s investigating a murder. Will a second homecoming lead to true love?

Freya Hunter is living the fabulous life. The west-coast girl rakes it in as a fashion model in New York City, but everything changes after she returns home for a quick visit.

The reunion with friends and family in Enchantment Bay is sweet, especially when she hits it off with Nico Valentin, a ruggedly handsome police sergeant. As Nico investigates the death, Freya learns a family secret big enough to turn her world upside down.

Freya is torn between her new life and her hometown — the life she loves vs. the brother who needs her and the sergeant who wants her. When her decision doesn’t go nearly as well as she planned, she wonders if she can help her brother and keep her growing feelings for Nico at bay before they consume her.

My Review: 4 Stars

Freya has been doing what she loves most... modeling. She has worked hard to get where she is and she loves it. Or at least she thought she did. But an unexpected trip home, a chance encounter with a gorgeous stranger and an incident at a photo shoot has her second guessing what she wants to do with her life and where she wants to be. How long will she last in the Big Apple when her heart is back in Enchantment Bay with Nico?

Nico has moved from the Big Apple to Enchantment Bay to take a Sergeant's position. He is one of the youngest police officers to be promoted to this position so he definitely has a lot to prove. When he loses one of his guys in a drug bust gone bad, he will do anything and everything he can to catch the killer. But the more he gets to know Freya, the more he has himself questioning just how much he's willing to sacrifice for his job. 

Freya and Nico definitely had an instant and strong connection. They didn't let the long distance bother them. Instead they chose to get to know one another better. When Freya finally moves back to Enchantment Bay, they have a few hiccups in their relationship but are able to overcome them to grow stronger and closer together. I loved that their relationship started out as friends and grew into more. There were definitely some swoony moments between those two. *dreamy sigh*

While I enjoyed this book, there were some things that had me rolling my eyes and just were not believable. I do not know anyone who would let a psycho chick into their home, assult the guests, destroy valuable property and NOT be arrested on the spot.. especially when there are 2 police officers and 1 lawyer present. It just wouldn't happen. Other than that the story was a cute, quick, fun read. I am definitely looking forward to the rest of the books in this series.

And for my casting... this one was fun to find. What do you think?

Content: Scenes with drinking, drugs, mild violence and eating disorders. No language that I remember but there are some strong name calling by the psycho ex-girlfriend. 

Explosive Chemistry by Sharon Landis

Synopsis:

The campus of Arizona State University has been plagued by a series of practical jokes that have turned malicious. A normally quiet morning on campus of is rocked awake by an explosion in the Science Building. Hannah Shaughnessy a feisty Irish/Italian coed is at the center of the excitement. A Bio-Chemistry major, she is more than aware how lucky she is to walk away after the smoke clears. Her luck in the romance department however, is all bad. After being friend zoned by the man she's loved for over three years, Hannah tries to move on to someone new.

Eric Waters is looking forward to a great year. If only he could find someone to date. He thought his status as a baseball player would enhance his image. Unfortunately his love life is trashing his game. When he turns to his best friend Hannah for consolation she isn't there for him.

When Hannah is harassed by a stalker and her life is threatened will Eric step up to the plate or will Hannah be forced to run for home.

My Review: 5 Stars

Hannah has been in love with her best friend for over three years. But no matter what she does, Eric doesn't see her as more than a friend. With the help of her best friend, Courtney, she decides that it's time to try and move on. But when she starts showing Trent some attention, Eric starts to notice. He doesn't like nor trust the guy. He will do whatever it takes to keep the two of them apart. 

Eric doesn't understand why he's so against Hannah and Trent. All he knows is that she's too good for him. With the help of his roommate, Jarrett, he starts to understand that his feelings for Hannah go further than friendship. But how can he prove to Hannah that his feelings are real? And can he do it before it's too late?

While Hannah and Eric start taking the steps to move their relationship to the next level, they have to deal with the campus prankster as well as Hannah's stalker. Are they ever going to catch a break? Can they catch who's after Hannah before it's too late? And will they ever get their happily ever after? 

I am really enjoying The Mended Hearts Collection, Explosive Chemistry is the best book in the series so far. I am looking forward to the other books in this series. If I had any complaints it would be that there are some repetitive scenes and inconsistencies. Also, Trent is a creeper! I cannot stand him! The ending with him in it is just not believable to me. 

Sharon Landis keeps getting better and better with each book she publishes. I can't wait to see what she has in store for us next! :) 

And I can't forget my casting! What do you think?!

Winters Rising (Clean Edition) by Shannyn Leah

Synopsis:

Brea was born a Second, a lowly class of people in the Lexcon society. But she also bore the birthmark that destined her to marry a Gatekeeper, the “superheroes” of their world. Some called her destiny a great privilege. She called it doomed to a cage with no key.

Gatekeepers were born and raised to ensure time remained untainted and unchanged, but Brea saw them as overlords who looked down on her kind… on Seconds.

Forced to marry Gatekeeper Jax Winters, Brea vows not to complete the ritual bonding with him until she can talk with council about how Seconds are treated. She plans to use her newfound status to help the plight of those born like her.

But she never dreams of the twist her life will take, moving her into a higher position than she’d ever dreamed. Will she and Jax always be at odds, or will their hearts bond together as their souls already have? Will Brea change the future of Lexcon, or will she be forever doomed to live life in the dark?

My Review: 4.5 Stars

Growing up as a Second, Brea has always been taught that you do what you are told, don't ask questions and never fight your destiny. Being controlled her entire life has filled her with so much hurt and anger. Is it any wonder she's resistant when it comes to her new husband and his family? How can she be happy when all her decisions are being made for her? And how can she embrace her new life and accept her future when she is filled with so many doubts?

From the moment Jax first laid eyes on Brea, he knew she was his soulmate. He loved her almost instantly but knew right away that she didn't return his feelings. He doesn't understand why she won't complete the bonding ritual with him but he will not force her to do something she does not want to do. She has to accept everything on her terms and know beyond a shadow of a doubt that they are destined to be together. He'll definitely have his work cut out for him when it comes to his feisty little firecracker who is full of sass. But her fight and determination is one of the things he loves most about her.

Brea and Jax definitely had a rocky start to their marriage but the more time they spend together, the closer they become. Watching these two find the strength and the willingness to fight for a cause they believed in was one of the things I loved about this book. They didn't take the commands of the Elders and Jax's parents sitting down. They fought for what they knew was right and refused to back down.

I have only read a couple of time travel books so this was a "step outside of my comfort zone" kind of read. And I have to say that I am SO glad I took that step! It didn't take long for me to get sucked in to the Lexcon society. I had a very hard time putting the book down! There were twists that I honestly did not see coming. I love when an author can keep me on my toes.

If I had one complaint it would be that there were a couple things that came up but were never addressed. I can't say much more than that because I don't want to give anything away. My hope is that, since it's part of a series, they will be addressed in one of the other books. We shall see! ;)

And speaking of the other books... I cannot wait for the next book in this series to be released! I'm definitely looking forward to more of the Winters family... especially Gabby's story! I don't know why but there was just something about her. I felt connected to her right away. I love it when that happens! :)

This is my very first book by Shannyn Leah and I was not disappointed! I love that she decided to release a clean version of Winters Rising and that I was able to receive an ARC! I will definitely be keeping my eye out for more clean reads by her! 

You can pick up a copy of the CLEAN version of Winters Rising by clicking here.

And this casting! *dreamy sigh* I love these two! 

*I received a copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.*

Wedding Date for Hire by Jennifer Shirk

Synopsis:

Hottie for hire...

Maddie McCarthy is single, between jobs, and (oh, the shame) lives with her mother. To make matters worse, she's the maid of honor for her sister's wedding, and desperately needs a date. Then she sees her salvation-Match Made Easy, a service for women in Maddie's exact position. If she can't find a boyfriend, she'll do the next best thing...

Hire one.

Trent Montgomery isn't actually part of Match Made Easy. He's just doing a favor for his cousin, but one look at the blonde who hired him, and he's totally hooked. Now Maddie thinks that the attraction sizzling between them is just "part of the package." And Trent is running out of time to prove to her that her date-for-hire might just be her happily-ever-after...

My Review: 5 Stars

Maddie's life has been flipped upside down. Between breaking up with her cheating ex-boyfriend, losing her job because of said ex, her family's "curse" and being the maid of honor at her sister's wedding, she's about to lose her mind! When she finds out that her ex is the best man, she is desperate to get a date to the wedding. But she has horrible luck with men. So what's a girl to do? Hire a fake boyfriend that's what! She's good to go with the plan until she meets her match... Trent. The jock she had a huge crush on in high school who helped make her life miserable. How in the world is she going to fool her family into thinking that HE is her "real" boyfriend? And how is she going to stop old feelings from resurfacing?

Trent doesn't actually work for Match Made Easy. He's just doing his cousin a favor by posing as an escort. A favor that he wishes he wouldn't have agreed to when he finds out it's for a wedding. He hates weddings. He doesn't believe in love and happily ever afters. What he does believe in is his cousin, who was the only one there for him during one of the most difficult times in his life. He would do anything for her. He has no intention of falling for the girl. That is absolutely out of the question. Until he gets to know his feisty, full of sass fake girlfriend. Boy is he in trouble.

Both Maddie and Trent have been hurt and abandoned in the past. Is it any wonder that they have a hard time trusting people? But the more time they spend together, the more they get to know one another, the more their feelings start to grow. How do they know what's true and what's an act? Both of them are going to have to start being honest with themselves and each other if they are ever going to get their happily ever after. 

I am seriously loving this series! I can't believe it's taken me so long to read it. I guess I should have paid more attention when my book buddies were reading and loving these books... ;) Jennifer Shirk really does know how to suck me into her books! I can't wait to read the next book in the series! :) 

And how about this casting?! *dreamy sigh*

Content: Mild language and innuendo throughout.

Fiance by Fate by Jennifer Shirk

Synopsis:

Sabrina Cassidy believes in fate. So when her fiancé breaks off their engagement, she’s convinced they’ll get back together eventually. But fate was not on her side when it brought Jack Brenner into her life—and work. Frustrating, gorgeous, and cocky, Jack has an offer that Sabrina can't refuse. Not if it means getting the life she’s always imagined.

Despite being one of the town’s most eligible bachelors, Jack has a reputation that’s working against him. He has to convince his father—and his company’s board—that he’s ready to settle down if he wants a promotion. But convincing Sabrina to be his fake girlfriend turns out to be the easiest part. What he didn’t count on was their intense attraction and how easily their lie would escalate. Sabrina’s still hung up on her ex, and Jack will never settle down. But fate has other ideas…

My Review: 4 Stars

After losing her parents in a car accident, Sabrina is passed from foster home to foster home. Growing up with no one to love her, she eventually closes her heart off. She does everything she can to not get hurt. But deep down she still hopes to find love, get married and have a family someday. So when her fiance suggests they "take a break", she sits back and patiently waits for him to come back to her. Little did she know that fate had something else in store for her. 

Jack has the reputation of being a playboy and getting whatever he wants. So you can imagine his shock when his father tells him the National Sales Manager position he has his eye on won't be his until he cleans up his act. How can his father do this to him? Doesn't he know that Jack would do anything for the family business? How will he ever be able to prove to his father that he'll eventually be able to take over the company if the position goes to someone else? 

Sabrina and Jack are thrown together for business but soon realize that they can help each other with the current problems in their lives. All they have to do is fake their relationship, making Sabrina's ex-fiance jealous and prove to Jack's father that he can change. But what happens when their fake feelings turn into real feelings? Will they continue on with their original plan? Or will they allow fate to step in and push them towards their happily ever after? 

I enjoyed the relationship between Sabrina and Jack. They progressed from enemies, to friends, to more. I found myself cheering them on from the very beginning. I do have to say that there were times I wanted to shake some sense into Sabrina. If a guy treated me like her ex-fiance treated her, I would be long gone with no look back! He was a loser with a capitol L! 

Jennifer Shirk has done it again. I have enjoyed all her books I have read so far. I can't wait to continue on with this series! :) 

And now for my casting... what do you think?

Content: Mild language and innuendo throughout.

Weekend Ramblings #11

My answer to last week's weekend ramblings question is...

Merryton, CO! There is just something about that small town. It's one of my most favorite places to escape! *dreamy sigh*

Are you ready for another Weekend Ramblings a la KJ?!

Well then... let's get ready to raaaaammmmmbbbbbllllleeeee!!!!!

This week's rambling question is...

*Do you prefer to read one book at a time? Or do you like reading several books all at once?*

Courting the Countess by Donna Hatch

Synopsis:

When charming rake Tristan Barrett sweeps Lady Elizabeth off her feet, stealing both her heart and a kiss in a secluded garden, her brother challenges Tristan to a duel. The only way to save her brother and Tristan from harm—not to mention preserve her reputation—is to get married. But her father, the Duke of Pemberton, refuses to allow his daughter to marry anyone but a titled lord. The duke demands that Elizabeth marry Tristan’s older brother, Richard, the Earl of Averston. Now Elizabeth must give up Tristan to marry a man who despises her, a man who loves another, a man she’ll never love.

Richard fears Elizabeth is as untrustworthy as his mother, who ran off with another man. However, to protect his brother from a duel and their family name from further scandal, he agrees to the wedding, certain his new bride will betray him. Yet when Elizabeth turns his house upside down and worms her way into his reluctant heart, Richard suspects he can’t live without his new countess. Will she stay with him or is it too little, too late?

My Review: 4 Stars

Elizabeth has been abused and singled out her entire life. She is made to feel stupid, worthless and invisible. She craves love and attention. So when the infamous rake, Tristan, pays her some attention, she finds herself "in love"... and eventually in a compromising position. To save her from ruin, her brother demands a duel and her father demands that she be married. But he will not allow her to marry Tristan. He demands that she marry his older brother, Richard, the Earl of Averston. 

Richard is none to happy with the circumstances his brother's actions have landed them in. He has worked for years to keep his family's name from being tarnished and keep it out of the mouths of gossips. But all it took was one wrong move by his brother and all his work could go up in smoke. Now he's forced to either watch his brother get hurt or killed or marry someone who he can never trust, let alone love. There really is no choice. He must save his brother and hope his wife doesn't turn out to be just like his mother. 

Because of past hurts both Elizabeth and Richard have trust issues and don't know how to communicate. Is it any wonder their marriage gets off to a rocky start? They are brought together through various circumstances and slowly start growing closer together. But just as they start making progress, life throws them curve balls full of doubt. Will they ever learn to put their faith and trust into each other so they can have a life full of love and happiness? Or are they doomed to a loveless marriage full of hurt and deceit? 

I have been a Donna Hatch fan from the first book of hers I picked up. Sadly, I read one too many historical romance books in a short period of time and just got burned out on them. It has been awhile since I have picked one up. But when I saw that Donna had released a new book and all my friends loved it, I knew I needed to pick it up and give it a try. I was NOT disappointed! I loved watching Elizabeth and Richard grow not only as individuals but as a couple as well. The feels were definitely real with this book! My only complaint is the book just ended! And we all know how much I hate that! An epilogue would have been perfect in my opinion. ;) 

I am definitely glad I read this book. It was the perfect getaway. I wonder if Tristan and Selina will get their own books?! Hmmmm.... 

And of course we can't forget my casting! I have to admit I had a hard time narrowing it down to these two. A big thank you to one of my best book buddies for her help! ;) 

First Line Friday's #10

Ok party people! It's that time again! First Line Friday's hosted by my amazing friend Kathy over at Bookworm Nation! Are you ready?! 

This week's First Line Friday is:

Courting the Countess

When charming rake Tristan Barrett sweeps Lady Elizabeth off her feet, stealing both her heart and a kiss in a secluded garden, her brother challenges Tristan to a duel. The only way to save her brother and Tristan from harm—not to mention preserve her reputation—is to get married. But her father, the Duke of Pemberton, refuses to allow his daughter to marry anyone but a titled lord. The duke demands that Elizabeth marry Tristan’s older brother, Richard, the Earl of Averston. Now Elizabeth must give up Tristan to marry a man who despises her, a man who loves another, a man she’ll never love.

Richard fears Elizabeth is as untrustworthy as his mother, who ran off with another man. However, to protect his brother from a duel and their family name from further scandal, he agrees to the wedding, certain his new bride will betray him. Yet when Elizabeth turns his house upside down and worms her way into his reluctant heart, Richard suspects he can’t live without his new countess. Will she stay with him or is it too little, too late?

First Line

"Lady Elizabeth had never dared hope she would find the kind of joy that inspired poets and musicians... until she met the incomparable Tristan Barrett."

I have been trying to find something different to read. So when I saw that several of my friends have read and loved Courting the Countess, I decided that I needed to give it a try. I have loved all of Donna Hatch's books that I have read so far so I'm sure I will love this one as well! :)

Do you want to participate in First Line? Yes?! Then tell us what your First Line is! Are you going to do a blog post? Then don't forget to link your post back to Bookworm Nation! Post your link in the comments. Don't have a blog? No worries! Just leave a comment with the title, author name and first line.

Ready?! And GO!