Top 20 Books of 2022!

Even though this year was full of life changes, 2022 was still an amazing year for books! Just like last year, 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 160 books (the most I've ever read in a year!) and I finished BOTH of my Reading Challenges!

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 2022. I decided to put the books in alphabetical order again since there is no way I'd ever be able to rank them. I just love them all way too much! 

So... without further adieu... here are my TOP 20 of 2022!

What are some of your favorites of 2022?

How to Kiss Your Grumpy Boss by Jenny Proctor

 

Synopsis:

Perry Hawthorne is my boss. Only my boss. And I do NOT have a crush.

When one of THE Hawthorne brothers—known by their chiseled jawlines and their family-run farm and event center—hires me to be his virtual assistant, I do everything I can to keep him firmly in the work zone.

His grumpy demeanor helps.

His smoking hot profile picture does not.

But even if I do have a crush (a very tiny one), I can’t catch real feelings for a million different reasons.

Besides the whole business part of our relationship, I’m a single mom. I have to think about what’s best for my son, Jack. And my grumpy, divorced, humorless boss isn’t exactly giving me “ready to be a stepdad” vibes.

When Perry upgrades me from virtual to in-person assistant, I wonder if I’ve gotten him all wrong. He’s actually pretty great with Jack. And with me? Let’s just say the chemistry crackling between us might vaporize all my reasons for keeping my distance.

Trouble is, after his messy divorce, I’m not sure Perry’s ready to bet on a new relationship. But it isn’t just my heart that’s on the line. It’s Jack’s, too. And after everything we went through before my husband died, I’m not sure that’s a gamble I’m ready to take, no matter how desperate Jack is for a daddy.

My Review: 5 Stars

*WARNING* Make sure you clear your schedule before you even think about starting this book. Trust me!

My first thought when I woke up this morning was... I'm just going to read a couple of chapters and then I'll get up and get ready for the day. After a couple of chapters I thought... just a couple more chapters. A couple more chapters later I had to force myself out of bed to eat breakfast and then I went right back to reading... just a couple more chapters. Y'all. I stayed curled up in my pjs all day long telling myself just a couple more chapters until I finished the book. I was so engrossed in the book that I didn't realize until I was cooking dinner that I didn't eat anything for lunch. Oops! 🙈

From the very beginning I fell in love with all things Perry and Lila. It wasn't hard to root for them. They were easy to relate to and they just felt real to me. Their relationship had the ups and downs that come with dating a single parent. I loved how they pushed and helped each other to become better and more confident. Watching these two get their HEA turned me into a big ol' pile of goo. 🥰

And of course I can't forget little Jack! He quickly stole my heart and had me laughing at his antics. I mean how can you resist becoming his stairdad?! Gotta love a kid who knows what he wants and isn't afraid to go after it. 😉

Y'all. I may or may not have started crying at one point but then I may or may not have started swooning and letting out all kinds of little dreamy sighs. Oh who am I kidding with the may or may not's?! This book had me feeling all the dang feels! And I loved every single minute of it! 

You guys know how much I love amazing side characters and this one was full of them! Perry seriously has the best family! They had me wishing I could be apart of it. Haha. I'm definitely looking forward to reading the rest of the books in this series. I have a feeling it's going to be one of my favorites that I'll be reading over and over again! 

Okay. Confession time. This is my first book by Ms. Proctor and I'm sitting here trying to figure out why in the world it has taken me so long to pick up her books. Talk about being late the the party! But don't worry. This will not be the last one I read. I've already preordered the next book in this series and downloaded some of her other books. I can't wait to dive in!

And of course I can't forget my casting! I seriously love these two! What do you think?!

Doctorshipped by Savannah Scott

 

Synopsis:

I’m the absolute last remaining single woman in the entire town of Bordeaux.
Okay, maybe not the very last.
Just the last one with all her teeth, natural hair color, and the ability to remember where I set my keys.

I decided years ago that I’m going to remain single until my dying day.
I’ll infuse a new, hip meaning into the term “old cat lady.”
I don’t need a man.
I’ve got my bulldog, my cats and some of the best friends in the world.
My cup’s not half-full—It’s overflowing.

My man-free life is going along fine until the day I walk into my new job as a part-time tutor to the daughter of the new doctor in town. The sight of this man is making my skin tingle and my breath hitch, and something very much like butterflies are erupting in my stomach.
Butterflies!
I don’t do butterflies over a man.

My reaction doesn’t mean I need to change my stance on men. After all, Grant’s a broody, stern, cantankerous man. If I were going to start dating, it certainly wouldn’t be someone who obviously hasn’t smiled since he was forced to for school pictures.

But then his daughter walks in the room and his face lights up.
That smile. Who knew swooning was a real thing?
Still, I’m not dating. And that’s final.

My Review: 5 Stars

I was having one of those days where I didn't want to do anything except curl up and read the day away. I had no clue what I was going to read until I turned on my Kindle and saw this baby sitting there waiting for me to dive in. So dive in I did... and finished it in about 8 hours. 🙈

There's no better feeling than opening up a much anticipated book and being instantly transported to one of your favorite fictional places. A place where the world around you ceases to exist and, just for a little while, you can forget all your worries and just live in the moment with some of your favorite characters. These moments and books are ones I will always treasure.

From the very beginning I fell in love with all things Jayme, Grant and Fiona. Their meet-cute is probably one of my favorites this year. You can't help but fall in love with these three and root for them to discover their happily ever after. Their journey did have a few bumps along the way, and it took them a little while to get there, but they did. It was real, it was raw, it was beautiful, and it was definitely worth it.

Y'all. I was feeling all the feels in this one. And by all the feels, I mean ALL the feels! I was so engrossed in the book that I didn't even realize I was doing the same thing the characters were doing. I found myself getting teary-eyed, laughing out loud, giggling, and letting out all kinds of little dreamy sighs. I love when an author can make me feel like I am right there with the characters, listening to them tell me their story. It's one of my favorite things about reading!

I loved seeing and catching up with all my old friends from the previous books in this series. They made the book even better than it already was! And now the countdown begins for Brooks' book. Eeeeeek! I can't wait to see what Ms. Scott has in store for him! Just a little reminder for myself... *Writing takes time. Writing takes time. Writing takes time.*

Ms. Scott has quickly become one of my favorite authors. I don't even read the synopsis anymore. I just one-click that baby, sit back, and enjoy whatever ride she wants to take us on next! She is amazing! If you haven't read any of her books yet, I highly recommend checking them out!

As for my casting... I am loving these two! What do you think?!

Christmas with the Boy Next Door by Jess Mastorakos

 

Synopsis:

He's a Marine turned small-town cop, and she's the single mom next door. Can the magic of Christmas unite them even with all that stands in their way?

Marine veteran Jack Rhodes returns to Snow Hill, PA to join the local police force. It's a good gig because it means he'll be close to his sister and her growing family, but taking this job has other perks, too, like living next door to his sister's best friend.

Robin McBride is determined to give her daughter a happy, stress-free life. So even though she's had a crush on Jack since the day they met, he's a police officer now, making him off-limits. Her late husband worked for the same department and died in the line of duty. There's no way she'll put her daughter—or herself—through that again.

As they grow closer over hot cocoa and holiday traditions, Jack knows he needs a Christmas miracle to convince Robin to risk her heart. And when her past comes back to haunt her, he’ll do anything to show her he’s worth believing in.

My Review: 5 Stars

Have you ever picked up a book, started reading it, and instantly knew you were going to have the hardest time putting it down? Well, that's what happened to me with this book. The world around me ceased to exist and I was immersed in all things Jack, Robin, and Abby. I can't even begin to tell you how much I loved these three!

Jack and Robin have known each other for a few years but because of Jack's profession, Robin has done everything in her power to keep her distance from him whenever he's in town. But all that changes when he moves to Star Hill to be closer to family and ends up buying the house right next door to her. Fate has something special in store for these two and all I can say is bring on the swooning and dreamy sighs. Their journey from friends to love to happily ever after is absolutely beautiful!

And I can't forget little Abby. She is adorable! She stole my heart from the very beginning. I loved watching her relationship with Jack develop. From her first unexpected hug to pizza on a bad day to snowmen to the ball to Christmas morning. Y'all, it was so sweet! I loved that he made her such a big part of his relationship with Robin. Have I mentioned how much I love these three?

Confession. I have not read the first book in this series. 🙈 How in the world did that happen?! Yes, this one can standalone, but you better believe I'll be reading Nick and Holly's book ASAP! And I cannot wait to get my hands on Tommy's book! I was secretly hoping he'd get one! 😍

Okay. It's official. I think Ms. Mastorakos needs to start writing romantic suspense. It's hard for me to find authors who write clean, secular romantic suspense so whenever I get even the slightest taste of it from a favorite author, I instantly want more! She is a natural and had me hooked from beginning to end. I'm really hoping we get to see more books like this from her. 😊

And for my casting... *dreamy sigh* I'm in love! What do you think?

The Holiduel by Hailey Gardiner

 

Synopsis:

When my pastry school rival, Finn Calloway, suddenly reappears back in the Nashville food scene, all of my plans are thrown off. Turns out we’re both stuck working out of the same commercial prep kitchen during the holidays. To top it off, Finn’s Canadian crepe truck is getting booked at events left and right, stealing my thunder and my gigs.

The coals of our competition start to burn again, made red hot by my resentment over the fact that he kissed me five years ago and then ditched town. Never making the effort to talk to me again.

But the more time I spend around Finn, the more I begin to see a different side of him. I’m tempted to set aside our rivalry and give him a second chance. Which I definitely can’t do. Because even though it might land me a permanent spot on Santa’s naughty list, I’d rather be a winner than a forgiver.

My Review: 5 Stars

Y'all. I can't believe these words are about to come out of my mouth for this second chance, slow burn romance. Are you ready?! 

Oh holy cuteness Batman! I absolutely adored this book! I was sucked in from the very beginning and refused to put the book down until the very end! It was the perfect break from reality!

Ava and Finn have a bit of history together. It all started back in culinary school and ended with a kiss on graduation that rivaled any kiss either of them had ever had. And then nothing. For five years. Five very long years where Ava definitely did not hold a grudge against Finn. Nope. Not. At. All. And she definitely doesn't have any issues whatsoever with Finn coming back to town and stealing the holiday gig she really wanted. None. What. So. Ever. Well. Maybe just a teeny tiny bit. 

Y'all. Bring on the all the sass and witty banter. I couldn't get enough of Ava and Finn. There was chemistry aplenty between these two whether they wanted to admit it or not. I loved watching them work out their past and get their HEA. It was full of laughs and all the dreamy sighs. Gah! I love these two!

A bit of advice for readers. Do not read this book if you're hungry or if you currently have a sweet tooth. All the yummy goodness mentioned in this book will drive you crazy! I may or may not want to try some of the deliciousness that Ava and Finn made. 

It's no secret that I am not a fan of slow burn romances. This book was so well written that I didn't even realize it was one until closer to the end. Any author who can get me to read a slow burn without knowing it's a slow burn definitely deserves all the stars. 

This was my first book by Ms. Gardiner and it definitely will not be my last. I'm looking forward to reading the rest of the books in this series. 

And of course my review wouldn't be complete without my casting. I'm loving these two! What do you think?!

Christmas at Valentine Inn by Jennifer Peel

 

Synopsis:

With a name like Isabelle Valentine, one would think I was destined to find true love and believe in the ridiculous notion of soul mates. Don’t get me wrong: I’m all about love. I even own an inn with my sister where each room is named after our favorite romantic couples. But soul mates? It seems highly implausible there is that one person, your person, meant only for you. My sister, of course, would tell me I’m dead wrong and that the very inn we own calls to such lovers. So, what if she did find her own unlikely happily ever after here with one of the most famous men alive? That doesn’t mean I’m meant for such a destiny.

But what happens when the implausible happens? When a man I thought I would never see again walks into my inn. The man who twenty years ago administered the kiss of all kisses. The kind of kiss that whispered to my soul and told me things I wasn’t ready to hear. But this time Dr. Patrick Abbott isn’t alone—he comes with two beautiful kids and the memory of his dead wife, who seems to haunt all their lives. So much so, Patrick would just as soon skip Christmas. At least that’s his plan until he finds himself playing hero trying to help me save my sister’s secret Christmas Eve wedding. By hero, I mean pretending it’s our wedding. Yep, you heard that right. Now we find ourselves having to act as if we are the jolliest couple around, making the season bright. But somehow the pretend feels all too real. Perhaps in all the chaos, there is room for my own Christmas dreams to come true. Maybe, just maybe, I was wrong about soul mates? Either way, I’m hanging up more mistletoe. Because hello, the man can kiss.

My Review: 5+ Stars!

Oh holy swooniness Batman! Where do I even begin with my review?! Part of me wants to yell.... DON'T READ REVIEWS! JUST READ THE BOOK! But then the other part of me wants to start gushing about how much I LOVED this book! Gah! Y'all. I just can't even right now! 

It's no secret that I'm a sucker for swoony second chance, single parent romances and this one absolutely NAILED what I've come to crave with these tropes! I was hooked from the very beginning and had the hardest time putting this book down! I never wanted it to end! It was just THAT good! 

From the first moment I met Izzy in The Valentine Inn, I knew she would hold a special place in my heart. There was just something about her fierce love, protective nature, and snarkiness that had me wanting to know her and her story. And oh what a story it was! My heart broke into a million pieces for her! I can't even imagine having to go through some of the things she did. The woman definitely deserves the very best and a dang good HEA!

Enter Patrick in all his white knight glory! Y'all. I became a big ol' pile of ooey, gooey, goodness! That man! WOWZERS! Y'all. I'm going to say it right now. He's MY book boyfriend and y'all just need to STAY AWAY! I will fight you for him! Haha. The man may be just as broken as Izzy, but he is absolute perfection! I absolutely adored their relationship. So swoony and sweet and loving! Y'all... you can't help but root for these two to get their HEA! 

And we can't forget Bridgette and Rory. Y'all. My heart was breaking for those kids! So much hurt and anger lived in them. You can tell they needed Izzy as much as she needed them. I loved watching her relationship with the kids develop and how they all helped each other heal. It was a beautiful thing! 

This book has all the feels! And I mean... ALL. THE. FEELS! Laughing, crying, swooning, dreamy sighing, you name it and I did it! The HEA in this book will probably be one of my all time favorites ever! If you haven't already guessed, this book is definitely a MUST READ! 

I can seriously go on and on and on with my gushing. I have read this book 3 times and have had the biggest book hangover every single time! If I had to give any kind of warnings it would be to make sure you clear your schedule before starting this book and then once you finish it make sure you reread some of your favorites before starting anything new. This book is going to be hard to follow!

Ms. Peel has definitely hit it out of the park with this one. Here it is, days later, and I can't stop thinking about Izzy, Patrick, and the kids. Gah! I seriously love this book with my whole butt! I would say heart but my butt is bigger! Clearly, Izzy has influenced me just a teeny tiny bit. 😉

As for my casting.... *dreamy sigh* I. Am. In. Love! What do you think?!

Fate Rising by Lindsay Grace

 

Synopsis:

He'd do anything to keep her safe... except give her up.

Aislinn is not what she seems.

When an ancient seer breaks her human glamour, it awakens a power she can't control. Kieran is determined to help her, but the strong bond connection they share renders her magic fatal.

If Aislinn cannot learn to tame her wild magic, she will lose more than just her fated mate.

She will forfeit her soul.

In a court torn asunder by an imposter king, impossible magic, and love unfulfilled, Kieran must choose between a crown he never wanted... or the beloved lass he would sacrifice everything for.

My Review: 5 Stars!

**WARNING** Do NOT start this book if you have plans to get things done. I'm here to tell you that it just isn't going to happen. Who needs food in their bellies and/or clean clothes when you have Fate Rising calling your name?! 

I don't even know where to begin with my review. This is one of those books that you are going to need to experience for yourself. What I can tell you is that you will feel irrationally angry and want to throw your kindle out the window. Trust me. Mine almost went right through my window with a half scream, half growl of frustration.

But don't worry. You'll be thanking me when Aislinn and Kieran have you melting into a big ol' pile of ooey gooey deliciousness. Talk about sizzling chemistry! YOWZERS! The romance in this book was on fire... literally... 😉 And it was just what this girl needed! *dreamy sigh*

I absolutely adored this book! I was on the edge of my seat the majority of the time and I could not read fast enough! Talk about action-packed from beginning to end. I loved every single minute of it! I am LOVING this series! It's phenomenal! I cannot WAIT to get my hands on the next book! 

Ms. Grace has officially added herself to my favorites and auto-buy lists. Any author who can get me to devour two of their books in such a short period of time, definitely deserves to be on them. This will be one of those times that I'll need to remind myself that writing takes time and that authors have lives that don't revolve around me and my need for their next book. But y'all. I need the next book like yesterday! 

And we can't forget my casting. I'm still loving these two! What do you think?

Fate Calling by Lindsay Grace

Synopsis:

A cursed fae prince. A feisty human lass. A fate they never expected...

All Aislinn Morgan wants is to live a peaceful life with her sister in the beautiful highlands of Scotland. When a hike on the Isle of Skye goes horribly awry and the sisters are taken to the mythical land of the fae, Aislinn will do anything to protect the only family she has left.

Even bargain with a beastly fae prince.

But the brooding, dangerous, and powerful Kieran O'Bairr is no ordinary fae. He has spent the last one hundred years in a self-imposed exile for a crime that haunts his every waking moment. The stubborn Aislinn Morgan is a complication he doesn't want, but his longing for the golden-haired lass is undeniable, her kissable lips a temptation he can't resist.

Aislinn is his fated mate.

And one desperate, stolen kiss will be his undoing.

My Review: 5 Stars!

Y'all. There are no words to describe how I'm feeling right now. Like none. I don't even know where to begin with my review. 

To say that I loved this book would be an understatement. From the moment I started it, the world around me ceased to exist and I lost all track of time. The word responsibilities was removed from my vocabulary and I could not devour this book fast enough. Talk about fast-paced, action-packed and swoony! It was incredible!

Aislinn (pronounced Ashlynn) and Kieran were phenomenal! I found myself rooting for them from the moment they met. There journey was definitely not sunshine and roses. After going through so much heartache and pain, both of them swore they would never fall in love. But a little thing called Fate had something else in store for them. 

I loved watching Aislinn and Kieran's relationship develop. Unlike a lot of urban fantasy books, theirs was not an insta-love. It took time and they struggled with feeling the way they did towards each other. There was a lot they had to deal with and I loved that they went at their own pace. Their love story is definitely one of my favorites. 

For me, a great book includes some pretty amazing side characters and this one was full of them. I think I loved Eamonn and Catriona the most though. They loved their siblings unconditionally and were fiercely loyal and protective. I can't wait to get to know them better in the next book. It's already downloaded and patiently waiting for me to devour it.  

Y'all. I was shocked when I discovered that this was Ms. Grace's debut novel. Had it not been for me looking her up on Amazon, I never would have guessed this was her first book. I love finding authors who are born with this kind of talent. She's definitely one I'll be keeping my eye on. I cannot wait to see what she has in store for us next! 

As for my casting, it took a little while or me to find them but I am seriously in love with these two! What do you think?!

The Runaway by Jess Mastorakos

 

Synopsis:

Could rescuing a runaway bride be the detour I never knew I needed?

I had a plan. But then, my cross-country road trip to my new duty station started with me getting dumped. Two seconds later, I got roped into bringing a family friend’s niece, Nikki, and her teenage daughter on the road with me.

To make matters worse, I’m aiding Nikki’s escape from her own wedding. The last thing I need after getting ditched by one flighty woman is to be stuck in the car with another one. Especially one who thinks I’m grumpy and rigid and too obsessed with keeping on schedule.

But despite the ball-of-sunshine act she’s putting on for her kid’s sake, there’s more to this story. And when I finally get it out of her, I realize this detour from my perfectly planned road trip is even more complicated than I feared.

And now, no matter what it costs me, I’ll stop at nothing to protect them.

My Review: 5 Stars

Oh my heart! Where do I even begin to tell you how much I loved this book?! First. This book is absolute perfection! Second. This book is absolute perfection! Third. Did I mention this book is absolute perfection?! Well, in my opinion, it is! Gah! You guys! This is the kind of book I have been craving all year! They have been few and far between for me so I found myself treasuring every single moment of this epic cross-country road trip! 

To say that opposites attract would be an understatement when it comes to Nikki and Nate. She's Little Miss Sunshine, he's Mr. Grumpy. She's spontaneous, he's all about plans. She's got all the words, he's a man of very few words. She's outgoing, he's reserved. One would probably think that these two wouldn't work, but they would be wrong. Their journey from strangers, to friends, to happily ever after helped them discover that perfect balance that is needed in a relationship. And oh what a beautiful journey it was! I never wanted their book to end. It was phenomenal! 😍

It would be remiss of me if I didn't tell you how much I also adored Marigold. Y'all. That kid stole my heart the moment she mentioned she's all about "murder and mayhem... not trashy reality shows with all the people looking for love in mansions and on islands". I'll take The First 48 over reality TV any day of the week. Unless it's On Patrol: Live. That is definitely a reality show that I watch every single week! 😂 But in all seriousness, this story wouldn't have been complete without Mari. Between her slang, her witty comebacks, her protective nature, and her unconditional love for her mom, I couldn't help but fall in love with her. She made the journey even better being at Nate and Nikki's side. Have I already mentioned that this book is perfection?

Beaufort has quickly become one of my favorite places filled with several of my favorite couples. I loved seeing and catching up with every single one of them. I also loved the surprise appearances from others. They had this girl doing a happy dance in her chair and clapping her hands. It was seriously the best! Oh! And that epilogue! Y'all! 😂😍 That is all. 

While I'm sad to be leaving Beaufort, I don't think this is goodbye. How can it be when Brett still needs his HEA? I cannot wait to see what Ms. Mastorakos has in store for him! Y'all. I have a feeling it's going to be another epic love story. And. I. Can. Not. Wait! 

As for my casting... *dreamy sigh* What do you think?!

The Detective Wins the Witch by Kristen Painter

 

Synopsis:

Private investigator Wyatt West finds his job a little tedious most days, but that changes when he meets a bewitching blonde florist who needs a favor in the way of a wedding date. There's definitely something magical about her, but little does he know just how correct that first impression is.

Single mom Marigold Williams finds herself instantly attracted to Wyatt, but doesn't dare tell this handsome human that she's a witch and things in Nocturne Falls are a little spookier than he suspects. He’s just a nice guy who’s offered to be her plus one. She doesn’t need to turn his world upside down with the truth over one date.

Despite that agreement, their feelings deepen and both agree to try a relationship beyond their current temporary arrangement. Now Marigold must tell him about her witchy side. After all, he has a right to know who he’s dating.

But when Wyatt unwittingly frees some dangerous magic, Marigold knows a life changing sacrifice is the only way to set things right. Will her magic save him? And will he be able to handle the truth that comes with it?

My Review: 4.5 Stars

It seems like it's been forever since I've visited Nocturne Falls. I forgot how much I loved it there. I can officially say that it's been added to my list of favorite fictional places to visit. 

I was excited to see that Marigold's story was next on my list to discover. Y'all know how much of a sucker I am when it comes to the single parent trope and this one did not disappoint. Marigold seems to be everyone's favorite and I would have to agree with them. There is just something about her that makes her special. Between her unconditional love, protective nature, selflessness, loyalty, and all around happy vibe, you can't help but love her and want the best for her. 

Enter Wyatt. If ever there were a perfect match for Marigold, it would be him. Life hasn't been the easiest for him, but I think that's what makes him so perfect for her. He sees all of her and wants to be the one to help her discover just how amazing she really is. Their relationship was so sweet and swoonworthy. I had no problem cheering them on as they finally got the HEA they both deserved. *dreamy sigh* 

And I can't forget little Saffron. Y'all. That girl is going to be an even bigger handful as she gets older! She'll be keeping them on their toes that's for sure. But oh how I loved that beautiful little Witchling! She's seriously the best and oh so sweet!

I've said it before, but I'll say it again. One of my favorite things about series like this is seeing old friends and meeting new ones. I loved catching up with several of them and I now have this strong desire to go back and reread some of their stories just because I can. But there's more stories to discover first. I already have them downloaded and ready to go! 

It's easy to see why Ms. Painter became one of my favorite authors. She knows how to suck me in and hold me hostage until the very end. I cannot wait to see what she has in store for us next! 

And of course I can't forget my casting. I'm kinda really loving these two! What do you think?

The Unseen Heir by Kenley Davidson

Synopsis:

Against all odds, Leisa has returned home to Farhall with news of Garimore’s treachery.

But her reception is far from the hero’s welcome she imagined. Instead, she finds herself a prisoner—to the growing fears and suspicions of a man she once considered a father.

To escape, she must forsake everything she once believed in, and leave behind all hope of answers about her past. But if she stays, it means betraying the fragile trust of the man who saved her life in Garimore.

Torn between her duty and her debt, Leisa is forced to flee with Kyrion, leaving behind the only home she can remember for the uncertain sanctuary of Dunmaren—Kingdom of Shadows, home of the night elves. There Leisa must confront her growing feelings for Kyrion, her fear of her own power, and the hostility of a people on the brink of war.

When dire news arrives from Farhall, both Leisa and Kyrion must decide where their ultimate loyalties lie. Can Kyrion find a path to peace that does not require him to give up the only woman he has ever loved? Or will Leisa have no choice but to save the kingdom she still loves at the cost of her own heart?

My Review: 5 Stars

Holy. Crap! Y'all. What in the world just happened?! Seriously! What. Just. Happened?! I am speechless! And that hasn't happened for awhile.

You want to know what else hasn't happened for awhile? Me staying up waaaaay past midnight to read a book. Unlike the first book, I had no problem getting sucked into this book. I had the hardest time putting it down. I finally gave into sleep close to 3am... only to wake up around 6:40amish to keep reading. I needed to know what would happen next!

Y'all. Leisa and Kyrion are freaking AMAZING! They quickly became one of my favorite couples of all time. Their loyalty, love, determination, sacrifice, and honor are just a few things I love about them. I loved seeing their bond strengthen, loved seeing them grow as individuals as well as together. I cannot wait to see more of these two on their journey as the series continues.

I'm not going to lie. I am torn on whether or not to start book 3 now or wait. I know for a fact it ends in a cliffhanger and book 4 doesn't come out for 2 months. I want to continue, but I know I'll be furious with myself if I do! Gaaaaaah! The struggle is real y'all!

Ms. Davidson is quickly becoming a favorite of mine. I cannot wait to see what she has in store for us next!

And of course we can't forget my casting. I'm still loving these two!

The Faceless Mage by Kenley Davidson

Synopsis:

He’ll protect her with his last breath…
Until she becomes his next target.

Leisa’s ambitions used to be simple. Guard the princess. Hide her magic. Wait for her family to return.

But all of that changes when her king demands that she use her unique abilities to spy on the rival kingdom of Garimore.

Alone, far from home, and living a lie that grows more perilous by the day, Leisa’s task is complicated by her most dangerous enemy yet—the masked assassin known only as the Raven.

Everyone in the Five Thrones knows to fear him, but the Raven is not what Leisa expected. As silent as he is lethal, he provokes her curiosity as much as her fear, and hides secrets she’s determined to learn.

When her already precarious mission takes a deadly turn, Leisa must evade the Raven himself if she is to succeed. It’s never been done before, but Leisa is nothing if not stubborn. And if she doesn’t become the first to escape his blade, her entire kingdom will pay the price—in blood.

My Review: 4 Stars

So I did a thing. When choosing a book, I usually read the synopsis and several reviews before diving in. This time, however, I did not. Y'all. Can I just tell you how scary that was me?! I had no clue what I was getting into and no clue what to expect! 🤣

I adored Leisa and the Raven. I felt connected to them from the very beginning. I really enjoyed watching their relationship develop. It was definitely slow going because both of them have trust issues, which is understandable since they are both being used by their kings. Slow going or not, I absolutely LOVED the end of the book! Y'all. It was AMAZING!

I'm not going to lie, the beginning of this book dragged for me. I struggled for the first 45% of the book. But then it started picking up. I was sitting on the edge of my seat around 80% and then I blinked and it was over. I may or may not have been staring at my kindle for a minute or two before I realized it was indeed over. It ends in a cliffhanger and I'm SO glad book 2 is out because I cannot WAIT to dive in. I need to know what happens with these two!

This is my second book by Ms. Davidson and I'm definitely looking forward to reading more by her!

As for my casting... this was a no brainer for me! I love these two! What do you think?!

2022 Spooktacular HallowReads

Y'all. How in the world is it October already?! I swear the older I get, the faster time flies! Does anyone else feel like this or is it just me?

A few years ago, I came up with the idea to dedicate the entire month of October to reading paranormal, fantasy, urban fantasy, and spooky kind of books. I called it Spooktacular HallowReads, see what I did there? 😉 I remembered how much I enjoyed it, so I thought I would do it again this year. 

I have been spending the last week or so I've been scouring Amazon and Goodreads looking for said books and think I've come up with some pretty good options. I know there is no way I'm going to get through all the books on this list but a girl's gotta give herself some options... right?! And I may or may not be adding to the list if I find more books while reading. 😉

So... without further adieu... I give you my list!

The Faceless Mage by Kenley Davidson

The Unseen Heir by Kenley Davidson

The Hidden Queen by Kenley Davidson

The Captive Throne by Kenley Davidson

Fate Calling by Lindsay Grace

Fate Rising by Lindsay Grace

The Werewolf Meets His Match by Kristen Painter

The Vampire’s Fake Fiancée by Kristen Painter

The Dragon Finds Forever by Kristen Painter

The Reaper Rescues the Genie by Kristen Painter

The Detective Wins the Witch by Kristen Painter

The Vampire's Priceless Treasure by Kristen Painter

The Werewolf Dates the Deputy by Kristen Painter

Mistress Grim by Jane Redd

Red Rider by Kate Avery Ellison

Fate Bound by Madeline Freeman

A Wolf's Craving by Brandi Elledge

The Book of Sorrel by JJ Makenzie

What are some of the books you want to read this month?

Happy Reading my fellow Book Dragons!

Townshipped by Savannah Scott

 

Synopsis:

Everyone said it wasn’t as though a woman was going to land on my doorstep and fall in love with me.

Never say never.

Now, this woman literally crashes into my life, but she doesn’t remember a thing about what happened before she got here.

She’s beautiful and a little sassy.
The longer she’s here, the more I feel like she’s the missing piece of a puzzle I didn’t even know I was trying to solve.

Our small town has her pegged as my imported bride, my mom’s already sharing family recipes, and my best friend won’t stop taunting me about the way I look at her.

For once in my life, I can picture a future with someone -- with this woman fate seems to have brought me from out of nowhere.
The funny thing about fate? Things never go quite the way you planned.

My Review: 5 Stars

Oh my heart! Guys... get ready for all the feels in this one! And I mean All. The. Feels! Once I started this book, there was no turning back. I was hooked!

This book should come with a warning though.

**WARNING** You might want to have your favorite treat on hand while reading this book because, if you're like me, you may or may not find yourself wanting to eat your feelings using the aforementioned treat.

Why? Because, y'all. *deep breath* Y'all. There were times that Em and Aiden drove me crazy! I kinda wanted to Gibbs slap them and tell them to WAKE UP! And I may or may not have wanted to throw my kindle across the room a time or two... but then I would've quickly ran over to pick it up and dive right back in.

Frustration aside, Em and Aiden are seriously the best! I quickly fell in love with these two and found myself rooting them on from the very beginning. They were absolutely perfect for each other. And it didn't hurt that their flirting, chemistry, and swoony kisses were hot, hot, hot! 

Y'all. I am loving this series! Small town romances are currently at the top of my favorites list. Between the quirkiness of the well meaning townsfolk, seeing old friends, meeting new friends, and just the strong feeling of community and always being there to help each other, I can't seem to get enough of them! They are my happy place and I never want to leave.

Ms. Scott has rightfully earned a spot on my go to authors list. I have loved all her books I've read so far. With all the sweet moments and swoony kisses, I'll definitely be reading them over and over again. If you haven't already, you should definitely give her a try! Don't worry... you can thank me later. 

As for my casting, y'all. I saw these two from the very beginning and I seriously love them! What do you think?

Battleshipped by Savannah Scott

 

Synopsis:

I am not in love with my ex-boyfriend ... I'm not.

You know those stories where high school sweethearts reunite to find their happily-ever-after bliss together?

Well, that won't be me.

Sure, my ex-boyfriend, Rob, has the smolder down to a science, which makes sense, because to him, everything is science. He's a famous YouTuber, making a living using that beautiful brain of his.

He's destined for greatness ... which means he'll leave ... again.
And this time, I won't be falling for him.

The battle is on. Rob thinks he'll win me back, but I'm fighting him with all I've got.

My heart is locked up tight, behind an obstacle course with every booby trap imaginable ....
Wouldn't you know it? Rob happens to be an expert at finding his way around locks and obstacles. Just my luck.

My Review: 4 Stars

Raise your hand if you're a sucker for second chance romance. I don't know about you but, for me, there's just something about seeing the hero and heroine, who clearly still love each other, work out their differences and realize what's been missing in their lives since they said goodbye.

The road back to each other is never easy, just ask Laura and Rob. It takes time, patience, understanding, and love. And maybe swoony kisses thrown into the mix couldn't hurt. Before the book ends they'll have you believing that love is taking that second chance, that home is not a place but a person, and even though the journey can be scary and uncertain at times, it's well worth it when they finally get their HEA.

I do have to say that I really didn't feel the enemy to lovers vibe in this book. Maybe I missed it since I skipped over the first book in the series? It was a slow burn romance and y'all know how I feel about those. 🙈 But me missing that vibe didn't stop me from enjoying Laura and Rob's journey. It had all the feels that I've come to love in second chance romances.

I am really enjoying this series. Bordeaux (pronounced Bored-Ox) is quickly becoming one of my favorite places to visit, but fictional small towns usually are. Aiden's book is up next and I cannot wait to dive in! Thank goodness I have leftovers planned for dinner. Otherwise, I wouldn't be eating tonight! 😂

Ms. Scott is quickly becoming a favorite of mine. I keep asking myself why in the world I waited so long to give her books a try. They are definitely swoony and full of kisses, both of which I love! I cannot wait to see what she she has planned for us next!

As for my casting, I pretty much saw these two from the very beginning. I love them! What do you think?

Censorshipped by Savannah Scott

 

Synopsis:

I am finally over my crush on Duke. Completely done.

Duke’s always been like a big brother to me … a big brother with abs of steel, a heart of gold, and those dimples that make my heart rate double whenever he smiles.

As far as Duke's concerned, I’ll always be his best friend Chris’ little sister—the little girl who dunked his Darth Vader action figure in Elmers glue and glitter.

Even if Duke noticed me, it wouldn’t matter. I’m so off limits, I may as well be wearing an outfit made entirely of caution tape. We both know Chris would enlist a special ops tactical team to hunt Duke down if he ever pursued anything beyond friendship with me.

Good thing I’m over Duke. One hundred percent attraction-free, that’s me. Well, mostly … until I accidentally send him one of my usual scrambled texts (thank you, autocorrect) … and he thinks I’m hitting on him.

I’m mortified enough to momentarily consider relocating someplace obscure like Greenland. I can never show my face around town again. I’ll buy a parka and an ice pick and learn to love fish. A lot.

But then Duke answers my text …
Am I dreaming? He’s not mad. He’s not even making fun of me.
In fact, it seems like he might be flirting back

I guess I might not be completely over this crush after all.

Just don’t tell my brother.

My Review: 5+ Stars!

Shannon has been in love with Duke for years. But with him being her brother's best friend, he's off limits. Unbeknownst to her, he feels the same way. But again, off limits. Do you see where this is going? I think you do. Once their feelings come out, there's no turning back. And I just have one thing to say... let the swooning begin!

Oh my heart! Y'all! I can't even with all the swooniness! I. Can't. Even! Where should I begin? I do have to warn you, this is going to be one of those gushing reviews. But you guys, I can't help it! This book had absolutely everything I want in the books I read! 😍

All the feels? ✓ Swoony? ✓ Lots of kisses? ✓ Giggled/laughed out loud? ✓ Let out all the little dreamy sighs? ✓ Butterflies in my tummy? ✓ Big gestures? ✓ Witty banter? ✓

Eeeeeek! Y'all. I could not get enough of Shannon and Duke! Between their banter, text messages, smokin' hot kisses, sweet moments, seeing each other in a way no one has before, and did I mention their smokin' hot kisses? They are absolutely perfect for each other! Was their relationship all sunshine and roses? Nope. But that's one of the things that makes them perfect for each other. They know just what to say and do to make things right. I loved spending every single minute I could with them and have to admit that I did not want their book to end! It's just that good!

This is my first book by Ms. Scott and I can say it will NOT be my last! I'm excited to go back and read the other books in this series. And I'm definitely looking forward to Jayme's book. I have a feeling sparks are definitely going to be flying between Mr. Grumpy and Ms. Sunshine. Add in Mr. Grumpy being a single dad? Eeeeeeeek! I. Can. Not. Wait! 

As for my casting, y'all. I'm not going to lie. I was too busy swooning to even picture these two but now that I do, I'm in love! What do you think?