Review: The Bodyguard

 

Hannah doesn't look like a bodyguard - but she has skills. Right now, she's spinning her wheels waiting for an assignment. She loves leaving town and going on assignment. But her latest assignment leaves a lot to be desired.

She's stuck pretending to fake date a Hollywood star who has come home for the first time in years. Jack Stapleton's mother is ill. He's not about to let his mom worry about his stalker. The movie studio hires a bodyguard (whom he mistakes for the cleaning lady until she flips him over without breaking a sweat.) 

Before long Hannah's moving to the family ranch. She's never had a close family and Jack's mom makes her feel important. 

Tensions are thick between Jack and his brother, but time on the ranch before idyllic. But is Hannah feeling a little too much for Jack? 

My Thoughts: I loved this book. This is my first Katherine Center book but no way is it my last. So much here that I loved: the banter between Hannah and Jack, Jack's family, and Hannah's co-workers. I enjoyed the fake dating plot - hiding from the press - and the fan moments. Lots of drama, action, and great moments. I didn't want this book to end. 

Cover Thoughts: Cute

Source: my Library

Library Recommendation: A must have book for your romance collection

Quick Tiktok:

@yabooknerdlibrarian ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ read! This romance book gave me all the feels!! #booktok #romancebooks #romancetok #5star #booknerd ♬ She Share Story (for Vlog) - 山口夕依

Bookstagram (1): Weather Girl

 

I've been playing around with Bookstagram posts and mood board for the books. I thought I'd share them on the blog too.

Weather Girl: 

A romance between two co-workers who set out to change their toxic work environment which includes:

Fake Dating

Matchmaking

Single Father

Heroine with depression

Meteorologist 

Sports Reporter 

Review: Royals Next Door

 

Piper's summer is about to get way more interesting. As a school teacher, she has the summer off. She's looking forward to relaxing and spending time with her mother. She's not anticipating her world to be turned upside down with the arrival of royals moving in next door.

The British Prince and his new bride need some time away from the spotlight. Their handsome bodyguard isn't too sure about Piper. But Piper's determined to befriend him. What could possibly go wrong?

My Thoughts: This book is based on the what if Prince Harry and Duchess Meghan moved next door to you for the summer. What if you became friends with them? What if that moment changed your life forever?

This was a fun premise and a fun read. I love royal books and while this isn't a royal romance (the romance is with the bodyguard) it's royal adjacent. I loved the moments in the school - the baking moments - and the banter between Piper and Harrison. I liked how Piper discovered herself and began to join the world a little bit more. I enjoyed the frank discussion of mental health - for both Piper and her mother. 

Cover Thoughts: Adorable

Source: My library

Library Recommendations: Grab this one for your romance section!

Review: Paradise Cove

 * Book 2 in the Matchmaker Bay series * 

Dr. Nora Walsh is giving herself two years in this small town. Two years to mend her broken heart. Two years to save enough money to purchase a home with her sister. And two years to not date. 

But the town has other ideas. They are so happy to have a doctor, they will do anything to keep her in town. When Nora befriends the local loner, the town has opinions.

Jake doesn't talk much these days, not since the loss of his son. But there's something comforting about Nora that makes him spill his deepest darkest secrets.

Could there be something more than friendship between the two of them?

My Thoughts: I really enjoyed this second book and I'm so looking forward to the third one. I enjoyed catching up with old friends, especially the folks at the hardware store. I really liked Nora. I felt terrible for Jake and all that he had been through. But I enjoyed seeing him emerge from his shell. I love how they started sharing their thoughts with each other and how they gravitated towards each other. I quite enjoy this small town.

Cover Thoughts: Charming 

Source: My library

Library Recommendation: A fun romance that's perfect for your library's collection. Give this book to readers who enjoyed Virgin River

On Your Radar: The Switch (42)

Title: The Switch

Author: Beth O'Leary

Publisher: Flatiron Books

Release Date: August 28, 2020

Why It Should Be On Your Radar:

* Sophomore novel

* Switch Apartments/Houses

* Grandmother

*Grief

* Bad Husbands/Boyfriends

* Small town life / London

* Fish out of water

* Humor

* Banter

* A Cute Dog

* Feisty Strong Women

* Friendships

* An ARC was sent for review

And I have to say that I'm much more of a fan of this cover:

Review: Mermaid Inn

* First in a new trilogy *

Eve fled the small town where she spent her summers 10 years ago after a heartbreak and never returned. Her great aunt Lucille died leaving Eve the Mermaid Inn. Eve tries to come into town undercover. She only wants to make a plan with the real estate agent and leave immediately.

She's dumbfounded when the lawyer tells her about the clause in the will - she can't sell the inn for a year. Eve's forced to stay in town and deal with her past heartbreak, the town gossip, and renovating the inn. Will she learn to love this town and Sawyer again?

My Thoughts:  This book was adorable!
I loved this second chance romance in a small town setting. I love how everyone knows everything and how fast the gossip spreads. I loved the bromance between Sawyer and his friends. I loved the moments between Eve and Sawyer as they worked to become friends again - and beyond. I loved their banter and their chemistry. I loved Clara and Eve's interactions. They were really sweet. I loved the friendship between Maya and Eve. I can't wait to read more in this series!

Cover Thoughts: Charming
Source: My Library
Heard About it: Andi from Andi's ABC was chatting about this book on Twitter.
Library Recommendation: Grab this one for your library's romance section - it's perfect for beach and summer displays. Plus it's perfect for those readers who love Hallmark movies.

Next Book: Paradise Cove

Publishing Date: July 28

On Your Radar: Tourist Attraction (35)

Title: Tourist Attraction

Author: Sarah Morgenthaler

Publisher: Sourcebooks Casablanca

Release Date: May 5, 2020

Why It Should Be On Your Radar:

*Grumpy Hero

* Small Town Charm

* Growly Bear Drinks

* The Diner's Rules

* Banter

* Wilds of Alaska

* Moose who loves the smell of freshly baked bread

* Tourists and hometown crowd

A fun debut that would make a great start to a new series!

** ARC sent for review

Holiday Book Review: Hot Winter Nights

* Book 6 in the Heartbreaker Bay series *

Molly's been the office manager for Hunt Investigations, but she wants to handle her own investigations. Archer believes she isn't ready, but she's not giving up. When neighbors bring her a case involving bad Santa, she's reluctant to say no.

Archer places Lucas on the case with her - unbeknownst to her. Lucas is still recovering from a gunshot wound. He's barely been cleared by the doctor for returning to work.

The more time he spends with Molly, the more he has to remind himself that as Joe's sister, she's off limits. But she's gotten under his skin. And he can't help admire her inner strength and determination.

My Thoughts: I really love Jill Shalvis for so many reasons. It's become a requirement to have a Christmas romance from her every year. I adore this series for the group of friends and how we learn more about everyone. I loved learning more about Molly. I loved Molly's inner strength and how she refused to back down. I love her big heart and how she wanted to help everyone. I loved that she took care of herself but also pushed her limits. I loved the banter between her and Lucas. I loved Lucas's family and the contrast between his family and hers. Another great novel from Jill Shalvis.

Cover Thoughts: I adore the background
Source: My Library
Library Recommendation: Jill Shalvis is an auto buy author. 

Review: Cottages on Silver Beach

* Book 8 in the Haven Point series *

Megan can't believe that Elliot Bailey showed up at her cottages. She despises the man after the way he treated her brother. She wishes she could refuse his rental - but he booked online. She can't believe that she'll be living next door to him for two weeks.

Elliot just needs to get his mind off the work drama, finish his manuscript before the deadline, and hang out with his family. He doesn't need Megan living next door - the one woman who has the power to turn his world upside down.

He can't get her off his mind. Could now finally be the time to start a relationship with her?

My Thoughts: I adore this series, I'm always happy to read a new novel set in Haven Point. I loved the tense relationship between Elliot and Megan - especially their history. I love how Megan was protective of her brother and always there for her niece and nephew. I liked Megan's second job and how she lost herself taking pictures. I enjoyed the cross-over into Hope's Crossing. I loved the moments in the gallery and how Megan found her footing again. Of course I'm dying to know what happens next with Luke...

Cover Thoughts: Adorable

Source: My Library

Library Recommendation: Highly recommend this series for all public libraries and their romance section.

Review: Rainy Day Friends

* Book 2 in the Wildstone series *

Lanie took a temporary job to get away from the pain in her life. Not the pain of losing her husband - but the pain at discovering the truth behind his life. The moment she walks into the winery, where she'll head up the new marketing campaign, she realizes that she's in over her head with the Capriotti family.

While they're all super sweet, they also want to know everything about Lanie. She's not ready to share her humiliation - especially not with Mark. He's a single dad of twin girls, with a great smile. If she's not careful, she could fall for him.

Lanie doesn't need more heartache, not when she's still trying to heal from the past.

My Thoughts: I adored this book, I didn't want it to end. I loved the banter between Lanie and Mark - and how she tried to keep everyone at arm's length. But also how that never worked. I really loved the Capriotte family and I hope we see so much more of them in this series. They really stole my heart - from the twins' antics to the gruffness of Mia. I really loved River too. I loved how Cora embraced everyone as family and how that all worked out. I can't wait to read more in this series.

Cover Thoughts: Adorable, but doesn't exactly fit the story
Source: My Library

 Library Recommendation: It's Jill Shalvis - her books should be automatically purchased for public libraries.

Review: Wedding Date

Alexa meets Drew in an elevator at a hotel - that shuts power when the power goes off. They start chatting. She's there to meet her sister and celebrate a milestone achievement. He's there to attend the wedding of his ex-girlfriend and good friend. In a moment of craziness, he acts her to be his date and fake girlfriend to the wedding. And she says yes. They have a great weekend together, but all to soon he's leaving. Could this weekend be the start of something much more?

My Thoughts: I've been waiting for ages to read this book - it had a bunch of holds on it at the library. I kept hearing so much buzz about it. And the buzz wasn't wrong - it was delightful. I loved the meet cute. I loved that Alexa was smart, strong, and spoke her mind. I love how she didn't hide talking about being Black and how she called Drew out on his privileged life. I loved the moments between the sisters - even though they were difficult at times. I loved that both Drew and Alexa were so passionate about their jobs. I really liked Carlos. Of course I enjoyed the pop culture references - especially Anne of Green Gables. I love how they ate all the time - it made me hungry! For a debut novel, Jasmine Guillory knocked it out of the park; I can't wait for her next book which also looks amazing.

Cover Thoughts: Cute
Source: My Library
Library Recommendation: A must have for public libraries

Romance Review: About that Kiss

* Book 5 in the Heartbreaker Bay series *

Joe and Kylie kiss one night outside a bar. He can't stop thinking about it. That's all it could be - but then she shows up in his office needing a favor.

Someone stole a wooden carving her Grandfather made for her - one of the few things she has left from him. They're taunting her with it, holding it hostage - until she verifies two carved pieces are her grandfather's work at an auction house. One of them looks very similar, the other is definitely not his work. She can't attach her name to it. So she asks Joe for help in tracking down the piece, but she insists on accompanying him.

As they cross names off her list, their time together makes their feelings grow. Could there be something beyond kissing?

My Thoughts: I love this series - and this book was amazingly book. I loved how the penguin meant everything to Kylie. I loved learning more about her and her woodworking abilities. She's one tough cookie. I love her disguises. I love the banter between her and Joe. I love how she insisted on tagging along as her interrogated people. Of course they had amazing chemistry. Plus I loved seeing the gang and how things have worked out with all of them. Another winner to this series and luckily book 6 is coming in September! 

Cover Thoughts: Cute
Source: My Library
Library Recommendation: Buy all books from Jill Shalvis.

Review: Princess in Theory

* First in a new Series *

Naledi hasn't had an easy childhood - nothing in her life has been easy since her parents died leaving her in the foster care system. Now she's in grad school and working, just trying to hold her head above water. It hasn't been easy. So when she meets Jamal, she's surprised to find a connection with him.

But Jamal isn't who is says he is; he's a Prince in disguise. Those emails, Ledi's been getting have been true all along. She knows he's different than other people - he's never ridden the subway before and he seems out of touch with certain everyday things. But she never expected him to become a Prince. She certainly never expected that she would have a past with him. Can they get over their past and have a future together?

My Thoughts: I was so anxious  and excited for this book; it didn't disappoint. There are SO MANY reasons to love this book that I can't list them all. Seriously just go read it.

But here are a few reasons why I loved it: Ledi didn't have time for games; she was serious about her life and her work.  I loved her STEM observations and her love for science and nerdy items. I loved how she figured out her relationships with her co-workers. I admired her toughness and her determination.  She didn't take crap - from anyone and it was amazing. I loved how she learned about her past and used it to help out her future. I loved the moments between Ledi and Jamal, especially their banter. I really enjoyed Likotsi and her closeness/openness with the prince. I adored the ending. I can't wait for the next book in the series - out this summer!

Cover Thoughts: Perfect
Source: Gifted from my #Otspsecretsister

Library Recommendation: A must have for all public libraries

Review: Sugar Pine Trail

* Book 7 in the Haven Point series *

Julia Winston’s been putting her life on hold for everyone else around her. With her parents both deceased, her life has become empty. She must start living again. At a book club, she writes down a bucket list for the year. Julia know she’s not really going to achieve her goals, but she can’t be the only person without a goal. Plus she needs to come out of her comfort zone.

She’s renting out the upstairs of her house to her friend’s devastatingly handsome brother. She knows that a librarian isn’t his type, but a girl can dream. Julia can barely hold a conversation with him without blushing, but she can’t go back on her decision now. Hopefully all their encounters won’t be so awkward.

When she notices brothers in the library day after day, she starts to worry about them. Julia gives them a ride home one night when she spies them walking alone at night after the library closed. She discovers that their mother left them three days ago and hasn’t returned. The older boy, who’s eight, has been doing his best, but there’s no heat in their place. Julia calls Child Services. When she realizes that the boys will have to move towns and will likely be split up, she offers up her home.

Jamie finds Julia at her wits end and stays to help out. From that moment, things take a turn. They make a plan for Thanksgiving, which involves Jamie’s family. Their holiday isn’t the same, but they forget about their family troubles for just a bit.

My Thoughts: I really enjoyed this book in the series. Haven Point crossed with Hope's Crossing in this book. I haven't read Hope's Crossing, but clearly it's on my list on books to read. I think knowing those characters would enhance the story for readers, but it's not necessary to enjoy this one. Of course, I loved seeing favorite characters again and meeting with Caine family. I enjoyed reading more about them. I loved the two boys. Clint and Davy stole the book for me with their antics. I felt terrible for them, but loved how they made a home with Julia. I really liked the interactions between Jamie and Julia - how they both thought they were stereotypes, but how they helped each other break out of their rules. They both had sad pasts, but helped each other move past them. Another great book in this series, I'm already looking forward to my next visit.

Cover Thoughts: Charming, but this and the title do not really fit with the story
Source: My Library
Reviewed: Also for Fresh Fiction

Library Recommendation: Grab this series for your public library!

Review: Every Dog Has His Day

* Book 3 in the Bluff Point series *

Zach's been single since he had his heart broken years ago. He's not looking for anything serious - ever. But two girls knock on his door to rescue their kitten and his whole world changes.  Their kitten's stuck on his roof. Of course, he agrees to help him. He doesn't realize that their mother is Jessie - the woman who yelled at him last week and whom he can't stopping thinking about. After he meets the girls, there's no going back. They all become friends; the more time Zach spends with them, the more he loses his heart to them - and their mother.

Chaos is a fitting name for the kitten.  Jessie's trying to hold everything together as a single mother. Her ex did a number on her. She's not willing to let go of her independence. But when she witnesses Zach with her girls, things shift a little. After a blizzard cements their bond, Jessie realizes she wouldn't mind seeing more of Zach either - and not just because he's good with her girls.

Could the bachelor really be wanting to settle down? And would Jessie let him into their lives permanently?

My Thoughts: I find the cupcake series delicious, the library series charming and the hat series lovely - but this series by Jenn McKinley is my favorite. Once I start these books, I can't put them down; they're addicting. I love the large group of friends and seeing them again. I loved Gracie and Maddie - they were adorable, sassy, and mischievous. They really did steal the book. Their moments with Zach were precious.  Chaos and Rufus were also charming. I loved the moments between Jessie and Zach. I enjoyed Jessie and her time with her new women friends. The blizzard might have been my favorite part of the book - very cozy. Another magical read in this series and I'm so happy there are more books planned!

Cover Thoughts: Charming
Source: My Library
Library Recommendation: Get this series for your public libraries

Romance Review: Moonlight Over Manhattan

* End of a trilogy *  

After a difficult childhood, Harriet came to rely on her twin and older brother. Now that her siblings have found true love, she’s ready to take back control of her life. So she's going to do something challenging every day, something that scares her. 

Harriet attempts online date, but it's an epic disaster.She twists her ankle jumping out of a bathroom window to escape a date. But she does meet a handsome doctor who looks at her ankle.

Dr. Ethan Black isn't having the best night in the E.R., in fact he's surprised when he meets Harriet. She's not the typical patient and that intrigues him. But knowing his relationship hang ups, nothing happens.

The two meet again when her dog walking business collides with his life. His sister leaves her dog with him for a few days. Ethan isn't used to having a dog in his life and the second meeting between the two doesn't go well. Ethan comes home to chaos after a horrific day and loses his temper causing Harriet and Madi discomfort.

Ethan has to convince Harriet to leave Madi with him. But she rearranges her schedule to give Madi more attention. Dog sitting is outside her comfort zone, but talking to Ethan isn't anymore. The more time she spends with him, the more she relaxes with him. Ethan knows there’s something about Harriet, but he also knows that he’s terrible at relationships. Is it worth the risk?

My Thoughts: I loved this trilogy about the three siblings finding love. I love how Harriet challenges herself and gain confidence. The challenges lead to some funny moments, but also some very serious reflection. I love her conversations with Ethan and how they both grow more comfortable with each other. I loved Ethan's friend from the ER. Of course I loved the bit in Vermont and seeing old friends from the Snow Crystal resort. It was wonderful to see old friends again. 

Cover Thoughts: Charming
Source: My Library
Reviewed: Fresh Fiction (upcoming)
Library Recommendation: Grab this trilogy for your public library!

Adult Review: Barking up the Wrong Tree

* Book 2 in the Bluff Point series * 

Carly lost her job in New York and reluctantly heads home to Maine to regroup. She's taking her newly inherited bird and dog with her. She's hoping to find homes for them, but the bird swears like a sailor and the dog is older. Carly's friends are happy she's back in town, but she assures them it's only temporary. A phrase she repeats when she meets James.

James is new to town, but he's fitting in just fine, especially after he meets Carly. He can't get her out of his mind. He's not taking her one night stand only rule to heart, he's working on the long game.

Could Carly see herself staying in the small town where she grew up for good?

My Thoughts: I really love this series - for the small town charm, the romance, and the friendships. I loved the parrot; he cracked me up. I loved the history between the two main characters and of course their chemistry. I enjoyed the relationships between the sisters - and how they couldn't see past their own selves for the longest time. Luckily I don't have much time to wait until book 3 because I need more of this town and the people!

Cover Thoughts: Adorable
Source: My library

Final Thoughts: Grab this series for your public library - it's a hit and your patrons will thank you!

Mini Review: Lilac Lane

* Book 14 in the Chesapeake Shores series *

When Moira's mother suffers a heartache, she convinces her to come to America for an extended visit. Keira can help out around the house especially with the baby and help out in the family pub. with any luck, she'll find happiness and move stateside for good.

The Good:
Seeing old favorite characters
Keira's feistiness
Kitchen Wars
Keira and Bryan becoming friends
Fathers and Daughter
All the plotting
That ending

The Bad:
Nitpicking, but I missed a few favorite characters.

Final Verdict:
Another fun book in this series, one to read for sure.

This series has been brought to live on the Hallmark channel. We're all opening for a season three next summer.

Library Recommendation: If you don't have this series in your romance section, purchase immediately. 

Adult Review: You Say It First

 * First in a new series *

Pallas's new  business is struggling. Having inherited it, she's not sure she wants to keep it. She likes planning weddings, but it feels stale. Luckily, she just hired herself a handyman artist who convinces her to think outside of the box.

Nick's in limbo, waiting to hear about an overseas art project. So, he doesn't mind helping out someone in need. Plus, it lets him go back to working with a familiar medium.

Together, the two of them fall into an easy relationship. But Nick doesn't do long term and he's leaving soon. Should Pallas risk her heart anyways?

My Thoughts: I really enjoyed this spin off of Fool's Gold. I loved seeing the brothers from Fool's Gold and their relationship after the bombshell that changed their lives. I loved watching them create art and dabble in new projects. I really loved Pallas. I loved her loyalty, loved her group of friends, and I loved how she started to take chances. I felt terrible for her in regards to her relationship with her mother, but I love how she started feeling more confident in herself. And the meetings between Nick and her mother were great. A wonderful start to a surefire hit series! 

Cover Thoughts: Perfect
Source: My Library
Library Recommendation: Grab this one for your romance section!

Adult Review: On Second Thought

Two sisters' lives change on the same night. What's supposed to be a celebration of Eric being cancer free turns into a tragedy. Kate's husband of four months dies in a freak accident. Eric, who was about to propose to Ainsley, takes it as a sign and breaks up with her.

After spending eleven years with Eric, Ainsley is blindsided. Since their neither the house nor the finances are in her name, she's in serious trouble. Not knowing where to turn, she shows up at Kate's door.

Kate's been dealing with her own grief. She didn't get enough time with her husband; they were still learning about each other. She's living in a house that isn't hers and she's lonely.

Even thought Kate and Ainsley aren't close, they need each other now more than ever. 

My Thoughts: I Loved this book. It's sent in the same town as If You Only Knew, so it was nice to see some old favorite characters. I enjoyed the relationship between the sisters. Being 10 years apart and half siblings, it's easy to see why they were never close. But I love how they lean on each other through their tough times and get to know each other better. I felt terrible for Ainsley dealing with all the fallout from her Eric's choices. There were times I wanted to smack her, but that worked itself out. I enjoyed her moments at work, her being late and her talking back to the boss. I felt bad for Kate as she dealt with grief, knowing her grief wasn't as much as other people in her husband's live who had known him longer. I loved the humor and the sweet moments. Most of all I loved the journey from the ashes to the phoenix and I think it was even sweeter because they helped each other. Another fantastic book from Kristan Higgins that I devoured. 

Cover Thoughts: Subtle, but effective
Source: Purchased

Library Recommendation: Public Libraries: Grab this one immediately for your adult fiction section if you don't have it already.

Where I Read This: I saved it for vacation reading, poolside in Vegas.