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!