Bride - Ali Hazelwood (#Review)

Date of Reading: 8/3/2024

Author: Ali Hazelwood

Publisher: Berkley

Publication Date: February 6, 2024

Rating: 5/5

About the book:

A dangerous alliance between a Vampyre bride and an Alpha Werewolf becomes a love deep enough to sink your teeth into in this new paranormal romance.

Misery Lark, the only daughter of the most powerful Vampyre councilman of the Southwest, is an outcast—again. Her days of living in anonymity among the Humans are over: she has been called upon to uphold a historic peacekeeping alliance between the Vampyres and their mortal enemies, the Weres, and she sees little choice but to surrender herself in the exchange—again...

Weres are ruthless and unpredictable, and their Alpha, Lowe Moreland, is no exception. He rules his pack with absolute authority, but not without justice. And, unlike the Vampyre Council, not without feeling. It’s clear from the way he tracks Misery’s every movement that he doesn’t trust her. If only he knew how right he was….

Because Misery has her own reasons to agree to this marriage of convenience, reasons that have nothing to do with politics or alliances, and everything to do with the only thing she's ever cared about. And she is willing to do whatever it takes to get back what’s hers, even if it means a life alone in Were territory…alone with the wolf.

Review:

       If you are considering hosting a book buffet, look no further for a dessert option; this book fits the bill perfectly. I must admit I practically devoured this book within a single day. Looks like, for once the hype is actually real.

       What did I love the most? Oh, that will be quirky dialogues and the slow-burn romance between Misery and Lowe. I love so many things about the book -- love between siblings, techno-savvy heroine, loyal friends and forbidden romance to name a few -- but these two definitely top the list. 

      The plot follows Misery's point of view with each chapter giving a short preview of what goes through Lowe's head at the beginning. I was drawn to Misery right from the start, particularly her ability to find humour even in the most dire situations. Lowe Moreland provides the perfect counterbalance and I loved the way the author included the idea of mates in this paranormal story set in a modern world. 

       The novel does include a mix of everything. It is part mystery, at times romantic and many thrilling scenes keep you at the edge. Only four months into 2024, I could already see this book becoming my favourite of the year. 

Meet the author: 

Ali Hazelwood is the #1 New York Times bestselling author of Love, Theoretically and The Love Hypothesis, as well as a writer of peer-reviewed articles about brain science, in which no one makes out and the ever after is not always happy. Originally from Italy, she lived in Germany and Japan before moving to the US to pursue a PhD in neuroscience. When Ali is not at work, she can be found running, eating cake pops, or watching sci-fi movies with her three feline overlords (and her slightly less feline husband).

In the Lives of Puppets - T. J. Klune (Blog Tour & Review)

Date of Reading: 17/3/2024

Author: T. J. Klune

Publisher: Tor Books

Publication Date: March 14, 2024

Rating: 4.5/5

(This review is part of the blog tour organised by Random Things Tours)

About the book:

In a strange little home built into the branches of a grove of trees, live three robots—fatherly inventor android Giovanni Lawson, a pleasantly sadistic nurse machine, and a small vacuum desperate for love and attention. Victor Lawson, a human, lives there too. They’re a family, hidden and safe.

The day Vic salvages and repairs an unfamiliar android labelled “HAP,” he learns of a shared dark past between Hap and Gio–a past spent hunting humans.

When Hap unwittingly alerts robots from Gio’s former life to their whereabouts, the family is no longer hidden and safe. Gio is captured and taken back to his old laboratory in the City of Electric Dreams. So together, the rest of Vic’s assembled family must journey across an unforgiving and otherworldly country to rescue Gio from decommissioning, or worse, reprogramming.

Along the way to save Gio, amid conflicted feelings of betrayal and affection for Hap, Vic must decide for himself: Can he accept love with strings attached?

Inspired by Carlo Collodi's The Adventures of Pinocchio, and like Swiss Family Robinson meets Wall-E, In the Lives of Puppets is a masterful stand-alone fantasy adventure from the beloved author who brought you The House in the Cerulean Sea and Under the Whispering Door.

Review:

        Alright! Confession time, folks!!! I could not complete the previous two books by T. J. Klune. Not that anything is wrong with the storyline, but they were all a tad bit slow for me. But the hype around them is too loud to ignore and I just wanted to complete one of his books. What is a better way to do that than committing to a blog tour? So here I am, finally finishing his latest work and . . . loving it to the core.

        The blurb may mention a Pinocchio-inspired plot, but to me, it felt more like a modern twist on The Wizard of Oz. There is a journey involved albeit for a different reason and evolved machines with feelings. We could predict the story to some extent, so don't expect any surprises there. The novel was enjoyable all thanks to one character, The Registered Automaton to Care, Heal, Educate and Drill or Nurse Ratched for short. There are no dull moments with her around.

       Oh! I can sense some resentment from someone around here. Don't worry Rambo, I could never forget you (I would like to have my ear drums intact, thank you so much). Despite your rambling, you are the cutest little vacuum I have ever come across. I am sure no one will dare to disagree.

        Guess you got the gist of what you can expect from this novel. Even with the light-hearted tone, the story doesn't fail to deliver a powerful message. A warning to be cautious so as not to be overpowered by our own creations. Will that deter us from doing what we want? Only time will tell. 

Meet the author:

TJ KLUNE is a Lambda Literary Award-winning author (Into This River I Drown) and an ex-claims examiner for an insurance company. His novels include The House in the Cerulean Sea and The Extraordinaries. Being queer himself, TJ believes it's important—now more than ever—to have accurate, positive, queer representation in stories.

Psyche and Eros - Luna McNamara (Blog Tour & Review)

Date of Reading: 11/05/2023

Author: Luna McNamara

Publisher: Orion Fiction

Publication Date: May 25, 2023

Source: NetGalley

Rating: 5/5

(This review is part of the blog tour organised by Random Things Tours)

About the book:

In this utterly transporting reimagining of Greek mythology, the god of desire is cursed to fall for a spirited young mortal woman, but if she looks upon his face they will be parted forever—an epic adventure and love story for the ages, sure to satisfy fans of Madeline Miller and V.E. Schwab

Who said true love is a myth?

A prophecy claims that Psyche, princess of Mycenae, will defeat a monster feared even by the gods. Rebelling against her society’s expectations for women, Psyche spends her youth mastering blade and bow, preparing to meet her destiny.

When Psyche angers the love goddess, Aphrodite, she sends Eros, the god of desire, to deliver a cruel curse. After eons watching humanity twist his gifts, the last thing Eros wants is to become involved in the chaos of the mortal world. But when he pricks himself with the arrow intended for Psyche, Eros finds himself doomed to yearn for a woman who will be torn from him the moment their eyes meet.

Thrown together by fate, headstrong Psyche and world-weary Eros will face challenges greater than they could have imagined. And as the Trojan War begins and divine powers try to keep them apart, the pair must determine if the curse could become something more . . . before it’s too late.

A joyous and subversive tale of gods, monsters, and the human heart and soul, Psyche and Eros dazzles the senses while exploring notions of trust, sacrifice, and what it truly means to be a hero. With unforgettably vivid characters, spellbinding prose, and delicious tension, Luna McNamara has crafted a shimmering and propulsive debut novel about a love so strong it defies the will of Olympus.

Review:

    Each passing day brings forth the realisation that when it comes to Greek mythology I have only scratched the surface. New characters (particularly women) that are often overlooked in the past come up as central characters making their voices heard. This time it is Psyche's turn.

"No temples were ever built in my honour, and no colleges of priestesses ever sung hymns in my names"

        She is the Goddess of soul and the beloved of Eros, the God of love. If you want to find a romantic comedy in Greek mythology, then that is theirs. At least that is what McNamara has created through her stunning work. While some may criticise McNamara's handling of the original myth, I beg to defer. Should we really be faithful to the original when it comes to retelling? Wouldn't that fail its purpose? I, for one, loved how the author made Psyche into an archer. Sure, feminist retellings don't have to make the woman a warrior. Still, I can't help but notice that this puts Psyche on equal footing with her archer husband. 

        The depiction of Eros as a primordial god ushered in a new perspective on the so-called main storyline. Zeus, as usual, doesn't gain any favourable points but Prometheus, on the other hand, shines through his lighthearted humour. Seeing him was like revisiting many of my childhood memories. Psyche's POV introduces a horde of other characters: Iphigenia, Clytmenestra, Atlanta . . . the list goes on. Women whose blood drenched the legends.

        Psyche and Eros' love story may not be as famous as Helen's and that could be a good thing. It does have a happy ending. As Psyche says, "Truly great lovers rarely make their way into the public eye. They are too busy with one another". Thank you McNamara for bringing them to the public eye and for creating an unforgettable tale.

Meet the author:

Luna McNamara holds a master's degree from Harvard University in the study of women and gender in world religions. A lifelong lover of Greek myths, she has studied ancient Greek language and philosophy. She is currently a social worker living in Boston. Psyche and Eros is her debut novel.

Best Men - Sidney Karger (Blog Tour & Review)

Date of Reading: 21/5/2023

Author: Sidney Karger

Publisher: Harper Collins

Publication Date: May 25, 2023

Source: NetGalley

Rating: 5/5

(This review is part of the blog tour organised by Random Things Tours)

About the book:

When two best men in a wedding party fall for each other, they realize love isn't a piece of cake in this hilarious and heartfelt romantic comedy debut by screenwriter Sidney Karger.

Max Moody thought he had everything figured out. He's trying to live his best life in New York City and has the best friend a gay guy could ask for: Paige. She and Max grew up next door to each other in the suburbs of Chicago. She can light up any party. She finishes his sentences. She's always a reliable splunch (they don't like to use the word brunch) partner. But then Max's whole world is turned upside down when Paige suddenly announces some huge news: she's engaged and wants Max to be her man of honour. Max was always the romantic one who imagined he would get married before the unpredictable Paige and is shocked to hear she's ready to settle down. But it turns out there's not just one new man in Paige's life--there are two.

There's the groom, Austin, who's a perfectly nice guy. Then there's his charming, fun and ridiculously handsome gay younger brother, Chasten, who is Austin's best man. As Paige's wedding draws closer, Max, the introverted Midwesterner, and Chasten, the social butterfly East Coaster, realize they're like oil and water. Yet they still have to figure out how to coexist in Paige's life while not making her wedding festivities all about them. But can the tiny romantic spark between these two very different guys transform their best man supporting roles into the leading best men in each other's lives?

Review:

      I would rather this book be called 'Best Friends'. For one, romance is just a side plot while the evolving relationship of Max and Paige  takes centre stage. It is also Max Moody's story where Chasten, for sure, has a part to play, but all the same, it is also about Max finding his life's calling. He is such an endearing character it is hard not to like him. Funny, loyal and down to earth -- Max Moody is this and many more. Finding humour in the most awkward situations (the first encounter with Chasten, for instance) he pulls you along in this laugh-out-loud ride.

        Max is one of the many things I loved about this book. A character-driven story like this cannot be enjoyed without someone like him. His friendship with Paige is really one of a kind and no wonder he felt threatened by Chasten's arrival in the scene. Chasten is the ideal gay guy, outgoing and smart to boot in contrast to Max who doesn't enjoy crowded events. While their chemistry is undeniable, I am a bit sceptic about Max-Chasten relationship. The whole thing works on the opposites attract concept, but will it make them stick together for an eternity?

        So I demand a sequel. I am curious how it turned out for both of them. The road ahead is bound to be bumpy, but that's just another story I can't wait to sink my teeth into. 

Meet the author:

Sidney Karger is an award-winning screenwriter for film and television. He is a former writer/director with Comedy Central, MTV and AMC, among other networks, and contributing writer for Saturday Night Live, Billy On The Street and McSweeney's. He currently lives in New York City with his partner and their Australian Labradoodle, Zelda. Best Men is his debut novel.

Total Creative Control - Joanna Chambers & Sally Malcolm (#Review)

Date of Reading: 3/3/2023

Authors: Joanna Chambers & Sally Malcolm

Publication Year: 2021

Rating: 5/5

About the book:

Sunshine PA, meet Grumpy Boss... When fanfic writer Aaron Page landed a temp job with the creator of hit TV show, Leeches, it was only meant to last a week. Three years later, Aaron's still there...

It could be because he loves the creative challenge. It could be because he's a huge Leeches fanboy. It's definitely not because of Lewis Hunter, his extremely demanding, staggeringly rude...and breathtakingly gorgeous boss.

Is it?

Lewis Hunter grew up the hard way and fought for everything he's got. His priority is the show, and personal relationships come a distant second. Besides, who needs romance when you have a steady stream of hot men hopping in and out of your bed?

His only meaningful relationship is with Aaron, his chief confidante and indispensable assistant. And no matter how appealing he finds Aaron's cute boy-next-door charms, Lewis would never risk their professional partnership just to scratch an itch.

But when Lewis finds himself trapped at a hilariously awful corporate retreat, Aaron is his only friend and ally. As the professional lines between them begin to blur, their simmering attraction starts to sizzle

... And they're both about to get burned.

Review:

        As an ardent fan of 'Enlightenment' series, I am all too familiar with the style of Joanna Chambers. Still, I was skeptical of her shift from the regency era to the contemporary and that too as a collaboration. No wonder it was on my TBR for so long. It is a recent review I chanced upon on one of my Facebook groups (gushing about how amazing it is) that propelled me to finally give it a chance. So this review is my paying it forward. Dear reader, do not make the same mistake I did by nearly skipping over this wonderful story.

        Good slow-burn romances with the right amount of angst are always hard to come by. That is exactly why this felt like unearthing a treasure. Lewis and Aaron, boss and PA, could be cliche characters, but under the deft hands of Chambers and Malcolm, they have gained a new sheen. Their banter makes you pine for more and the couple's chemistry is just off the charts. The setting that revolves around the hit TV show 'Leeches' merges so perfectly with the storyline that I am left with no more words of praise.

        If you have a penchant for mm romances, indulge yourself a little bit. This hilarious story will leave you wanting more.

Meet the authors:

Joanna Chambers has a day job and family but manages to find time to write by not cleaning the house or watching television. She is shockingly ill-informed about popular culture. You can find her on Twitter being distracted, on Instagram being confused, and – most happily – in her FB group, Joanna’s Chamber, talking about reading and random stuff with her reader pals.

Sally Malcolm was bitten by the m/m romance bug in 2016 and hasn’t looked back. It’s fair to say she’s obsessed with the genre. She has four contemporary m/m romances out, set in the fictional Long Island seaside town of New Milton. She's also the author of eight Stargate novels and novellas, including the hit "Apocalypse" trilogy. She has penned four Stargate audio dramas for Big Finish Productions, including Stargate SG-1: "An Eye for an Eye" starring Michael Shanks, Claudia Black, and Cliff Simon. Sally lives in South West London.

Duvet Day - Emily Kerr (Review)

Finished Reading: 6/6/2021

Author: Emily Kerr

Publisher: One More Chapter

Publication Date: May 27, 2021

Source: NetGalley

Rating: 4/5

About the book:

Young lawyer Alexa Humphries’s one true love is her precious duvet, yet she is torn from its comforting embrace every morning while the foxes are still scavenging the bins outside and doesn’t get back until long after most normal people are already asleep. Worn down by the endless demands of her suspicious boss and her competitive, high-flying housemate and fellow lawyer, Zara, Alexa barely recognises herself anymore. This wasn’t how life was supposed to be.

But today is different. Today, Alexa just cannot get out of bed to face the world. Everyone deserves a duvet day, don’t they?

But what starts as a mini-rebellion against the tyranny of her job soon sees her locked out of the flat wearing nothing but a unicorn onesie and what’s left of her dignity. Desperate to track down a spare set of keys before her back-stabbing housemate finds out she’s pulled a sickie, Alexa sets off on a wild goose chase across London. Before long, she’s being blackmailed by an annoyingly handsome photo-journalist, forcing her to trail after him while the hours before she has to get home tick down.

As Alexa’s dreams of Netflix and self-care turn into the duvet day from hell, what’s starting to feel a lot like the beginning of a breakdown might actually be the making of her. Will she get home in time to keep her job … and does she even want to?

Review:

        It is not every day one is fortunate to find a book with Sophie Kinsella vibes -- a lot of self-deprecating humour, finding your way back in the world . . . you know the drill. Kerr's writing may not be as polished as Kinsella's but her heroine definitely is one of the best.

        Meet Alexa Humphries. A young lawyer in one of the top law firms in London. Top of her class and pride of her teachers. If only her work life is as happy as everyone believes it to be! Back to reality: she is struggling with the pressures at work, weary of her co-worker slash housemate, hasn't even met the third housemate and quite obviously, no friends in London.

        And one day all tides break loose. She had enough of it and in a daring moment, she never thought she was even capable of, she called in a sickie. But the hopes of having a duvet day with Nutella and Netflix is soon turned into a nightmare when she is left locked outside. There begins the journey to secure a key and also a journey to get back to her life that is lost.

        I loved this story this much because of Alexa. She is so down to earth and passionate about her career and there is no wonder people took advantage of her. She is a wolf in sheep's clothing who finally came to believe that she is also a sheep. Kerr has kept the romance element to a minimum which I loved (Sam is not really a likeable character, by the way). So if you are in need of an inspirational story during the pandemic where a young woman finally learns to stand up for herself, then look no further. Happy reading everyone!!!

Meet the author:

Emily Kerr has been scribbling stories on bits of paper ever since she learnt how to write. She works as a journalist and is based in Yorkshire.

She can generally be found with her nose in a book, or hunched up over her laptop typing away, though she has been known to venture outside every so often to take part in various running-based activities.

Emily loves to hear from readers. You can tweet her @EmilyKerrWrites or check out her Facebook page www.facebook.com/emilykerrwrites and website www.emilykerrwrites.com.

One Family Christmas - Bella Osborne (Blog Tour & Review)

Date of Reading: 19/10/2020

Author: Bella Osborne

Publisher: Avon

Publication Date: October 15, 2020

Source: NetGalley

Rating: 4.5/5

(This review is part of the blog tour organised by Rachel's Random Resources)

About the book:

A big family. A whole lot of secrets. A Christmas to remember…

This year, Lottie is hosting one last big family Christmas at the home she grew up in – just like her Nana would have wanted.

But when her relatives descend on the old manor house, Lottie gets more than she bargained for. Every family has its secrets, but in this family, everybody has one!

So, between cooking a Christmas dinner, keeping tensions at bay and a stray dog out of mischief, she has plenty on her plate (and not just misshapen sausage rolls and a frozen turkey). And then her first love shows up – nine years after he walked out of her life.

Can Lottie make their last family Christmas one to remember… for the right reasons?

A festive treat to curl up with this Christmas, perfect for fans of Milly Johnson and Trisha Ashley.

Review:

        I am speechless! It is a known fact that miracle hands are needed to manage a festive family gathering, but to manage Collins family . . . we need something more. Talk about a crazy family, and adorable in their own ways too.

        To honour her grandmother's last wish, Lottie is hosting the last Christmas in the manor. Her career and love life is in shambles and she is going to be homeless soon, but she can handle one Christmas right? How naive she was!!! 

        On the one side, there are the pets, Duchess the cat and Dave the dog, turning everything topsy turvy (I was planning to buy a puppy for Christmas, now I am not so sure). Then the family secrets which decide this the perfect timing to come out of the closet; and yes, Lottie's old flame is back too. What is not to go wrong?

        Did I scare you enough? Aren't you curious how Lottie survive this messiness? Go ahead then. This hilarious, unforgettable family story will definitely bring back memories of bygone Christmases and anticipation for more.

Meet the author:

Bella has been jotting down stories as far back as she can remember but decided that 2013 would be the year that she finished a full-length novel. Since then she’s written six best selling romantic comedies and she’s been shortlisted three times for the RNA Contemporary Romantic Novel of the Year Award. 

Bella's stories are about friendship, love and coping with what life throws at you. She lives in The Midlands, UK with her husband, daughter and a cat who thinks she’s a dog. When not writing Bella is usually eating custard creams and planning holidays.

For more about Bella, visit her website at www.bellaosborne.com or follow her on social media.

Social Media Links 

Twitter: https://twitter.com/osborne_bella

Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/BellaOsborneAuthor/ 

Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/bellaosborneauthor/

Stuck on You - Portia MacIntosh (Blog Tour & Review)

Date of Reading: 16/09/2020

Author: Portia MacIntosh

Publisher: Boldwood Books

Publication Date: September 17, 2020

Source: NetGalley

Rating: 4.5/5

(This review is part of the blog tour organised by Rachel's Random Resources) 

About the book:

Could a post-it note really lead to love...?

Sadie doesn't have time for finding love. She's too busy as PA for famous artist Damian Banks. When she's not arranging exhibitions, she's organising his dry cleaning or dumping his never-ending stream of girlfriends.

But when she strikes up an unusual friendship with her desk share buddy, she finds a confidante and a new potential love interest. Problem is, they've never actually met...

With Christmas just around the corner, can Sadie put herself first for a change and find what she's been looking for all along? The brand new romantic comedy from top 10 bestseller Portia MacIntosh. Perfect for fans of Sophie Ranald, Mhairi McFarlane and Zara Stoneley.

Review:

        I figured out the plot from the blurb itself and it went exactly as predicted. No last-minute surprises or sabotages and I absolutely ADORED IT for that exact reason. It may not be Christmas yet, but Portia surely makes wonders in creating a festive spirit throughout. Playful banter, a creepy beginning with a serial killer and Christmas with the family . . . she does prepare a curious mix.

        Unlikely love stories have always held a special charm for me and this is no different. A hated boss and an unusual friendship through post-it notes contribute much to the mystery and then there is the meet the parents part. Don't we love it all the time? (Utterly nerve-racking though it may be in real life). Christmas with Sadie's parents on an island which takes the traditions quite seriously is one the best parts in the story. Competition to post Christmas postcards, Dickens Day, Winter Wonderland and movie night in pyjamas . . . I am tempted to pack my bags right away.

        And the dad jokes (on both sides) are absolutely  . . . hmm, ridiculous and hilarious. It is impossible to talk about the love story without some spoilers so I will let you be the judge of that. Suffice to say, this is, by far my favourite among all these author's works. Trust me, you cannot read this book without an evergrowing smile.

Meet the author:

Portia MacIntosh is a bestselling romantic comedy author of 12 novels, including It's Not You, It's Them and Honeymoon For One. Previously a music journalist, Portia writes hilarious stories, drawing on her real-life experiences.

The Bookish Life of Nina Hill - Abbi Waxman (Review & Summary)

Date of Reading: 10/03/2020

Author: Abbi Waxman

Publisher: Berkely

Publication Date: July 9, 2019

Rating: 5/5

About the book:

The only child of a single mother, Nina has her life just as she wants it: a job in a bookstore, a kick-butt trivia team, a world-class planner and a cat named Phil. If she sometimes suspects there might be more to life than reading, she just shrugs and picks up a new book.

When the father Nina never knew existed suddenly dies, leaving behind innumerable sisters, brothers, nieces, and nephews, Nina is horrified. They all live close by! They're all—or mostly all—excited to meet her! She'll have to Speak. To. Strangers. It's a disaster! And as if that wasn't enough, Tom, her trivia nemesis, has turned out to be cute, funny, and deeply interested in getting to know her. Doesn't he realize what a terrible idea that is?

Nina considers her options.

1. Completely change her name and appearance. (Too drastic, plus she likes her hair.)

2. Flee to a deserted island. (Hard pass, see: coffee).

3. Hide in a corner of her apartment and rock back and forth. (Already doing it.)

It's time for Nina to come out of her comfortable shell, but she isn't convinced real life could ever live up to fiction. It's going to take a brand-new family, a persistent suitor, and the combined effects of ice cream and trivia to make her turn her own fresh page.

Review:

       I don't think any book lover alive fail to relate to this book as one or other way Nina Hill represents some of our quirky character traits. Thanks are due to my book club for selecting this as the BOTM; looks like that was the only incentive I needed to transfer it from my TBR pile. And so glad I did.

      As you must have gathered from the blurb, the story revolves around Nina Hill, a bookworm who prefer books to reality. Aren't we all? Her days are meticulously arranged with a planner and all these come tumbling down when the father she never knew suddenly died, leaving behind a large family. This is a precarious situation. Now she is forced to get her head out of books, and mingle with actual people. Sounds familiar guys?

       With lots of bookish references, dry humour and a whole set of endearing characters, this book proves to be a light-hearted and engaging tale from beginning to end. So bookworms of the world unite in reading this; after all, this is your story.

Summary:

       Nina is the daughter of a single mother who is a world-famous travelling photographer. Due to her mother’s frequent travels, she is practically raised by her nanny, Louise. Now at the age of twenty-nine, she is happy with her job in the bookstore, her trivia team and the company of her cat, Phil. Everything changes with the visit of a lawyer who informs her that her father, William Reynolds, is dead. Though she knew that her mother is not Virgin Mary type, she was not expecting to hear about the father figure in her life. To make matters worse, her father has married three times and consequently, she has four siblings and a bunch of nephews, nieces, grandniece and grandnephews.
       Her nephew Peter comes forward to introduce the family and soon Nina learns that genetic plays a great role in creating similarities. Even with Archie, her brother whom she thought will be resentful, she finds a comradeship since both share anxiety issues. But Lydia, her grandniece refuses to accept her and considers her as a gold digger.
         Meanwhile, Tom, the leader of their opposite trivia team (You’re a Quizzard Harry) is interested in Nina. They are put together in many situations quite ‘coincidentally’ thanks to the matchmaking skills of both their friends. Nina is not comfortable with surprises or changing her schedule but with Tom, she feels a sense of security. Same goes with her family since she feels no qualms about changing her plans for her youngest sister, Millie, who is also heavily invested in books. But her anxiety problems come as a villain again and cracks begin to appear in her relationship with Tom. The news of her bookstore about to get closed causes a panic attack, but instead of taking the help of Tom, she prefers to spend her time alone as her usual habit. But unlike earlier times, wrapping herself in a cocoon fails to give much comfort.
      Finally, the anticipated will reading occurs with the huge wealth of William Reynolds divided among his legitimate children and grandchildren. Nina is left with her father’s favourite car (a1982 Pontiac Trans Am). She is asked to drive it at least once even if she chooses to sell it. With the help of Moltres, the garage keeper, Nina manages to learn driving and inside she finds letters addressed to all children and grandchildren. 
         From the letter addressed to her, she learns that her father was keeping track of her life even though he was not allowed to meet her. He confesses to the mistakes he has made and asks her to learn something from his experience. He has left more than two and a half million dollars to her but his real gift is her newly acquired family. Nina delivers her father’s letter to Lydia and finally, both of them realizes their bond. Lydia, it seems, is quite brilliant with trivia. 
    Nina goes to Southern California Quiz Bowl Final because Tom’s team has reached the final round. When a question is posed to the audience, in typical cinematic fashion, Nina makes her feelings public and apologizes to Tom. The lovers patch up their differences and there begins their happily ever after. Nina buys the bookshop with her money and intends to spend her whole life with books.

Meet the author:

Abbi Waxman, the USA Today bestselling author of The Bookish Life of Nina Hill, Other People’s Houses, and The Garden of Small Beginnings, is a chocolate-loving, dog-loving woman who lives in Los Angeles and lies down as much as possible. She worked in advertising for many years, which is how she learned to write fiction. She has three daughters, three dogs, three cats, and one very patient husband.

Mad About You - Anna Premoli

Date of Reading: 1/2/2020

Author: Anna Premoli

Publisher: Aria

Publication Date: November 14, 2019

Source: NetGalley 

Rating: 4/5

 

About the book:

 

Giada Borghi has always known exactly what she wants. Graduating with honours? Check. An internship at a prestigious consulting company in Milan? Check! Ariberto Castelli, with his pretty face and unironically monogrammed shirts? Definitely not.

Sure, they may have shared a kiss in a nightclub once upon a time – that doesn't change anything! Boys like Ariberto and girls like Giada just don't belong together. But working so closely with a handsome Italian is bound to turn any girl's head, especially as she realises there's more to Ariberto than meets the eye.

The summer days are long and hot... can Giada make it through with her head – and heart – intact? 

 

Review:

 

      It is hard to let go of a book written by Anna Premoli. Undoubtedly, she is one of my favourite romance authors and this humorous and enlightening story has just confirmed my trust in her. Set in Milan, we get to see a hate-to-love story -- well, it might be one-sided -- and as always the humour and the funny banter between our couple bear Premoli's trademark style. 

      Giada and Ariberto meet first at a bar and  Giada hates him at the very first sight. Reason: a boyfriend like him will be surely approved by her mother and she cannot let that happen. Yup, we have got a weird heroine (or should I say she is nuts?) who hasn't outgrown her teenage tantrums. I do have my own quirks, so no judging her in this aspect. Who is perfect anyway? . . . except for Ariberto. He should be recommended for sainthood; really guys, I don't think this man is real.

      One of the disadvantages of the first-person narrative is that it is hard to make a fair judgement. Ariberto could be a possessive man, but through the love hazed narrative, it is difficult to ascertain. But the patience and stubbornness he has shown in wooing the lady is nothing but remarkable. I know he is too good to be true, but can't help but wish him to be real.

     If you are looking for a sweet rom-com for the weekend, then search no further. This will surely fill your day with laughter and may lengthen you life span for a good measure too. Happy reading!

 

Meet the author:

 

Anna Premoli is a bestselling author in Italy. She began writing to relieve stress while working as a financial consultant for a private bank. Her novel, Love to Hate You won the Bancarella prize in 2013.  

When You were Mine - Lisa Swift

Date of Reading: 09/09/2019

Author: Lisa Swift

Publisher: Hera

Publication Date: August 14, 2019

Source: NetGalley 

My Rating: 5/5

 

About the book:

 

Life is a love song when you find the right notes
Maggie and Ibby make up a happy – if unconventional – family. After meeting at university, they now live in the village of Applecroft on the beautiful West Country coast.

Okay, so Ibby’s gay and prone to disastrous dates, while couples’ counsellor Maggie spends her days helping people with their relationship problems despite having no sex life of her own. Nevertheless, they’re devoted to bringing up teenage daughter Amelia – the result of a drunken one-night stand when they were students – in a stable and loving family.

Until a face from the past – in the form of hard-partying rock star Jordan Nash – disrupts their quiet lives. As Jordan struggles with his personal demons and old secrets are revealed, can Maggie and Ibby stay strong? Or will bringing back the past threaten all that they’ve built in the present?

A feel-good, heart-warming novel about first loves and second chances. Fans of Holly Martin, Dani Atkins and Heidi Swain will be captivated.

Lisa Swift is the pseudonym for bestselling women's fiction novelist, Mary Jayne Baker.

 

My Review:

 

       Ok, I know what you are thinking. This is totally weird. A family of three where the father is gay, mother is . . . let's say. . . straight, and they have a daughter (created not by artificial means). And before you ask, no, they are not a couple. In my opinion this is weirder than 'I've Got Mail'. What puzzled me most was how it is possible (even in a fictional sense) for a gay man to have child. If you are bothered by this, please don't let this spoil your reading as all will be explained by the end.

      This is Mary Jayne Baker's first novel as Lisa Swift. Though I don't really get the reason for different names, I enjoyed it just like her other novels. Of the three novels I am familiar with, this is my favourite. Her signature style shines through even with the change of name. There is the ever present humor, gay characters and most of all the theme of friendship that knits together all her novels.   

      Even with its light hearted tone, the novel discusses some weighty issues like homophobia, coming of age and  drug addiction. This is the story of a family wading through the storm and also that of a friendship beating the odds. The characters are likable, good hearted (a rare breed indeed) even with the human frailities and . . . ya, they are going to stay with me for a very long time.

     Amelia is by far my favourite. She shows a maturity that is unheard of but is not unreal. Whatever sacrifices Iggy and Maggy made to provide her a stable, healthy childhood is totally paid off. Message of the story is simple and probably as old as the universe itself . . . love conquers all. It doesn't matter how odd your family is, if you stand together and welcome the changes with an open heart, anything can be overcome. 

      A remarkable story which is hard to put down. It will embrace you like an old friend and will fill a hole in your heart that you never knew existed.

 

Meet the author:

 

Lisa Swift grew up in rural West Yorkshire, right in the heart of Brontë country... and she's still there. After graduating from Durham University with a degree in English Literature, she dallied with living in cities including London, Nottingham and Cambridge, but eventually came back with her own romantic hero in tow to her beloved Dales, where she first started telling stories about heroines with flaws and the men who love them.

Lisa also writes romantic comedy novels under the name Mary Jayne Baker.  

A Question of Us - Mary Jayne Baker

Date of Reading: 04/08/2019

Author: Mary Jayne Baker

Publisher: Aria

Publication Date: September 5, 2019

Source: NetGalley

My Rating: 5/5

About the book:

Two best friends. Eight pub quizzes. One shot at love...

Some people seem like they have all the answers in life. Clarrie Midwinter isn't one of them.

At the age of 26, tomboy Clarrie is still struggling to become a 'proper' grown-up. She's eternally strapped for cash, she hasn't had a date in nearly a year and her attempts to quit smoking tend to take a nosedive after the second pint. Most annoyingly of all, her ladykiller best friend Simon just won't stop asking her out. The only thing keeping her sane is her pub quiz team, the Mighty Morphin Flower Arrangers.

But when Simon bets her a date their team will win the quiz league, Clarrie is forced to confront what she really wants out of life – and love. Is it finally time for her to grow up?

Gloriously irreverent, badly behaved romantic comedy from the author of Meet Me at the Lighthouse.

My Review:

      There is no contesting the fact that enemies to lovers is my favourite trope, but friends to lovers can always bag the second position. And this lovely book undoubtedly goes straight to my favourite shelf. Set in a typically British village, the story had me in the hooks from the very beginning and the pages flew by . . . just like that.

      When I said 'village' that doesn't mean the story is all about a cosy, little Edenic place. On the contrary, most of the story surrounds a tightly knit group and pub quizzes and so we see more booze and talk than any real village life. The humour is irresistible and the banter (with sexual overtones) is spot on. Yup, if you want to pick some British slangs, this is your right pick.

      Main characters are Clarrie and Simon aka Si. They are close since their birth but never could manage that final leap to love, all thanks to Carrie's anxiety. Now, at the age of twenty-six, she is finally cornered into a bet. Well, let fate make a decision and all that. Si is not your typical macho guy (with all his cockiness, he sobs when he learns that his mom is ill) and I just love him for that.

        The other members of the gang have their own major parts too with stories going on their own. We have Sonny (or Sunil) an Indian Sikh, Dave and Gemma. Everyone knows practically everything about each other and that creates the whole fun scenario. Couples are made (not unmade, fortunately) and life goes on. 
       I am practically jealous of them all actually. One of the drawbacks of village life is that there are no secrets, but the support of the tight-knit community can never be replaced. They make you appreciate the little things. I loved the way the story turned out, expected but still quite romantic. Wooh!
       So what are you waiting for guys? Stock your drink cabinet and keep your tissues at hand; this cute little story is going to make you misty-eyed one moment and howling with laughter the other. A great comfort read for the weekends!

Meet the author:

Mary Jayne Baker grew up in rural West Yorkshire, right in the heart of Brontë country... and she's still there. After graduating from Durham University with a degree in English Literature, she dallied with living in cities including London, Nottingham and Cambridge, but eventually came back with her own romantic hero in tow to her beloved Dales, where she first started telling stories about heroines with flaws and the men who love them.

Mary Jayne also writes uplifting, feelgood romances under the pen name Lisa Swift.