Review: Cliff House

One summer in Cape Sanctuary changes everything for two sisters and the aunt who raised them. Bea must deal with her ex-husband returning to town after a near death experience and wanting to get back together. She has no interest in returning to their old life. A stranger turns Daisy's life upside down and convinces her to share her story with him - and all her secrets. Stella's past comes to town and helps heal her in a way she never expected. This family find comfort in themselves, understanding in their lives, and love.

My Thoughts: I'm a big fan of the author's Haven Point novels. I really enjoyed this stand alone novel. I loved the two sisters and the aunt; they had a great relationship. But my heart broke for each of them at how they came to be together. I loved that Stella opened her home to other children and the impact she had on so many lives. I love the fact that all three of them worked for her foundation. There was lots of tugging at the heartstrings in this read, but it made my heart happy.

Cover Thoughts: Charming - I wouldn't mind waking up to that view every morning
Source: My Library
Library Recommendation: Grab this one for your public library's romance/women's fiction collection.

Adult Review: My American Duchess

Merry meets the Duke outside on a balcony during a party. She doesn't know his true identity and from his clothing, he's not a stuffed peacock. She lets her guard down and shows her American ways.

The Duke can't helped but be charmed by her. Even if she's already broken off two engagements and came to England to find a husband. Before he can think about courting her, the news hits him. She's the girl his brother asked to marry this morning.

His twin brother. The brother he hates. The brother who doesn't appreciate Merry. Trent isn't about to let him win...

My Thoughts: I really enjoyed this book. I loved how different Merry was from the other women of society. I loved that she wasn't perfect, that she fell in love easily. I felt bad that she fell for terrible men. I loved the banter and the honest moments between Trent and Merry. I love how protective Merry felt for her aunt and uncle. I love how she battled society when they tried to take her down. I loved Trent. I felt terrible for him and for his family drama. I love that Merry didn't hide her differences including her intelligence.  Of course the pineapple scene was amazingly clever. I do like how that turned out.  

Cover Thoughts: Gorgeous, it's perfect in every way
Source: Purchased
Book: Stand Alone
Library Recommendation: Heck yes, purchase for romance collections

Adult Review: Sleepless in Manhattan

 * First in a new trilogy * 

Paige hasn't had an easy life but just when pieces seem to be falling into place, her world comes crashing down. She goes into work one day expecting a raise but leaves without a job. Before Paige can wrap her head around this new chance, her brother's best friend (and her major crush) dares her to start her own events company.

Armed with her two best friends and knowledge, Paige decides to give it a go. Only once she starts, she finds it hard to drum up any clients - until Jake steps in again and offers her a huge job. Can she work with him without allowing her feelings to get in the way?

My Thoughts: I loved the first book in this new trilogy! I adored the friendship between the three girls. I loved the easy way they conversed with Paige's brother and Jake. I love how they had each other's backs. I loved how Paige grew during the book - how she took chances and how she distanced herself from her past. I liked learning more about the events planning business. I loved her determination and her strength. Can't wait to read the next two stories! 

Cover Thoughts: Cute!
Source: My Library
Library Recommendation: Highly recommended for the romance collection

Final Thoughts: A fun start to a new trilogy in the city that never sleeps (And neither will you if you start this book at night - at least not until you finish it)

Adult Review: Nobody but You

 * Book 3 in the Cedar Ridge series *

After losing his best friend, Jacob comes home to Cedar Ridge to heal. He knows it's not going to be easy with the way he left, but that doesn't stop him from trying. Unfortunately, he takes his time telling his brother that he's back. When they run into each other, anger gets in the way of a happy reunion.

Sophie needs to pick up the pieces of her life after a messy divorce. She meets Jacob in a case of mistaken identity, but even that doesn't stop her from being attracted to him.

Can both of them stop running long enough to realize they belong together?

My Thoughts: I really loved this book - for the family banter, the brothers finding their way back to each other, Sophie and Jacob, and discovering where you belong. After reading the first two books, I couldn't wait to learn more about Jacob. I loved reading about his time in the armed forces and how it changed him. I liked seeing the fight from his perspective and how he handled things. I love that this small place can come to mean so much to people. I loved the way the family took care of each other and the banter between them all. I'm sad that this is the end of the trilogy, but it was a great trilogy.

Cover Thoughts: Love the background
Source: My Library
Library Recommendation: Highly recommended for all libraries

Final Thoughts: Fantastic book rounding out a trilogy of brothers, if you're a romance reader, don't miss these books. 

Adult Review: What We Find

 * First in a new series *

Maggie's having a bad year. Her medical practice is in trouble - from her partners and her own drama. The parents of a dead teenager are suing her. On top of that, Maggie's just miscarried and her boyfriend doesn't want to deal with her drama. He dumps her flat out. All of this combined leaves Maggie crying in the stairwell.

Her friend finds her and suggests Maggie take a few weeks off. Maggie realizes that might be the best idea and flees to her father's home. There she hopes to straighten her life around and to figure out her next steps.

Sully lives off the the trail of the Continental Divide Trails where he owns a general store mixed with camping areas. It's the perfect place to relax and unwind - until he has a heart attack.

Maggie takes great care of him, but she can't do everything herself. A man who was just passing through steps in to help her. He's a little secretive, but Cal might be just want Maggie needs.

My Thoughts: Robyn Carr came through Connecticut on her book tour and she was entertaining. I was more excited than ever to start her new series, although I fully admit to be a newbie to her books. I have read one other book before, but I haven't started her series yet. 

I really liked this book. In the beginning of the book, I felt heartsick for Maggie. But I loved how strong she was, how she didn't back down from her future, and how she took control in situations. 

I love the layers of relationship in this novel. I really liked her conversations with her father - from the teasing moments to the sweet moments where they talked about the past and how it changed them both. I liked Maggie's relationship with Walter and how she started realizing the influence he's had on her life and how she starts to finally understand him. I really liked Cal - he's strong, a thinker, a reader, and knows how to handle himself. 

I'm so looking forward to the next book in this series.

Cover Thoughts: Charming
Source: Book sent for review

Adult Mini Review: Because of Miss Bridgerton

* First in a new series *

Billie Bridgerton can't believe the scrap she just got herself into trying to help a cat. Now she's stuck on top of a roof with a hurt ankle and no way down. She's waiting for someone to come along - but of course the one person who comes along is the one person she can't stand.

George Rokesby is an old family friend. Unfortunately Billie and he have never been friends. She adores his brothers, but George seems condescending and annoying. But once he becomes her white knight, emotions begin to shift.  

The Good:
* The start of a new series, so we'll see these characters again
* The banter between Billie and George
* Billie's tomboy ways
* Billie's knowledge of the land and her working the land
* Billie wearing breeches
* Billie's way with the Rokesby brothers
* The Pall Mall game
* The mallet of the death
* The closeness of the families
* Mother maniupalation tricks
* Enemies to Lovers
* Slow romance

The Bad:
* We have to wait for more news about Edward

Final Thoughts: Get yourself to a library or bookstore and grab this one up if you love historical romances.

Cover Thoughts: Love it
Source: My Library
Fun Fact: In anticipation for this book, I wrote up a post on the BookBub blog about what books to read while waiting for this one, but it also works with what books to read afterwards.

Adult Review: Friends We Keep

 * Book 2 in the Mischief Bay series * 

Nicole's coming to terms with her divorce. But what she can't swallow is the fact that her husband seems to cancel plans with his son more often than not. If Eric's not careful, he's going to damage his relationship with Tyler. When Tyler meets the author of his favorite books, he's more interested in hanging out with Jairus than his own father.

Hayley is desperate to have a baby of her own, but her body's rejecting that idea. Devastated, she's determined to do whatever she can, despite her doctor and her husband's wishes.

Gabby's anxious for her twin daughters to head off to school for the first time, so she can return to work. When her teenage stepdaughter becomes pregnant, it turns the whole household upside down.

These three friends deal with all the drama in their lives while supporting each other.

My Thoughts: I really enjoyed this sequel. Nicole seems to be the center of this series. Each of the women had big changes in her life. I really liked how the relationship with Nicole and Jairus progressed. I loved learning more about Jairus and his past, including his relationship with his sister. Hayley annoyed me at first with her illogical behavior, but she grew on me towards the end. I think I liked Gabby's story the best - with her stepdaughter and the twins. I wasn't a fan of her husband through most of the book. But her twin daughters were entertaining and sweet, and of course a little wild. I'm interested to see where this series goes next.

Cover Thoughts: Cute
Source: My Library

Adult Review: My Kind of Wonderful

* Book 2 in the Cedar Ridge series *

Hudson Kincaid's felt a hole in his life ever since the argument where his twin took off and never looked back. Since then, he's tried to shoulder everything. He's been so good at taking care other people that he's neglected his own happiness.

Bailey's excited to test out her new wings and try things she never thought she'd try. When Hudson's mother hires her to create a mural, she can't say no. Even if Hudson himself isn't on board with the idea.

The two of them butt heads from the beginning, but could those sparks be the start of something real?

My Thoughts: I really loved this book. I love the Kincaid family for how they came together, for their banter, and for their loyalty towards each other. I love how hard they work at turning the ski resort around. 

I loved Bailey outlook on life and how she wanted to try new things. I loved watching her interact with the Kincaid family. 

I loved the banter between Bailey and Hudson. 

I loved the moments on the mountain - watching the world.

Lots of humor, family drama, and that perfect ending scene as expected in a Jill Shalvis book. I can't wait to read the next book: Jacob's story!

Cover Thought: Cute
Source: My Library

Final Thoughts: Another winner for Jill Shalvis. Don't miss it!

Adult Review: Anything for You

* Book 5 in the Blue Heron series *

Connor and Jess have been secretly dating for years. He's ready for the next step in their relationship. One night he proposes.

She's not ready for anything more.

They break up - again.

Connor warns her it could be for the last time. But as much as Jessica cares about him, she cares about her brother more. She's not interested in getting married, especially with her reputation.

Connor vows to move on, but how can you forget your first love?

My Thoughts: I loved this book, although I'm sad that the series is now over. I really enjoyed getting to know the people of this town. Kristan Higgins has a few situations in every book: a fantastic dog and bad dates. This book had both, which of course made me giggle. 

I was happy to read Connor's story. I really love Connor - especially his moments with his sister. They're banter made me laugh. I like how he fought for Jessica and their relationship, but gave her space at the same time. I like his approach to her brother. 

I fully admit that when the book opened, I wasn't a fan of Jessica. She seemed prickly and closed off emotionally. And then I read more. I read about her childhood drama, her guilt, and how she took control of the situation. I'm impressed at how Kristan was able to make me sympathize with Jessica after my initial disliking of the character. In the end, I couldn't help but admire Jessica. 

This book tugged at my heart strings - giving me all the feels: sadness, horror, disbelief, happiness, and of course hope.

Cover Thoughts: Love!
Source: ARC sent for review

Did you miss my interview with Kristan? Check it out here.

Final Thoughts: Kristan Higgins is one my favorite contemporary romance authors, she's amazingly good. If you haven't read her books yet, get on that. Trust me, you won't regret it!

Adult Review: She Went All The Way

Lou Calabrese writes screenplays. In fact, she just wrote a powerhouse script that shot her ex-boyfriend to instant fame. Immediately afterwards, he broke up with her after 10 years relationship and married his co-star.

Now Lou is in Alaska on her way to a film location with a star Jack Townsend. She and Jack have never gotten along. It could have something to do with the fact that the line he changed a blockbuster movie became his catch phrase.

She's not the only one who doesn't like him. In the helicopter, Lou's stunned to see the pilot pull out a gun and point it at Jack. The pilot confesses that he's been hired to kill the action. Instead, Jack and Lou fight for their lives as the helicopter crashes. They manage to escape, but winter in Alaska with a storm on the way isn't the best place to be. Can they find their way back to safety without killing each other?

My Thoughts: I love Meg Cabot - so it's no surprise how happy I was to find a book I hadn't read in a used bookstore. Of course I loved this book; it read like an action movie with more romance than usual. It was amazingly good.

I loved the Hollywood plot line -seeing the screenwriter mix with the actors. I loved the banter between Lou and Jack - even in times of complete danger. I enjoyed the survival story in the wildness while they fought for their lives from the bad guys. 

Plus the story line with their parents was sweet and charming. 

Cover Thoughts: Cute - but doesn't covey the action of the story
Source: Purchased

Final Thoughts: Lots of action and danger plus romance = perfect combination.

Adult Review: Royal We

When Bex decides to spend a semester abroad in Oxford, she has no ideas that her life is about to change forever. She meets Nick on the first night she arrives in the rain, but she doesn't realize he's the crown prince.

Living on the same floor, Bex gets to know the real Nick - not the one everyone thinks they know. They bond over late nights and TV shows.

Time goes by and their feeling grow. Bex decides that she can no longer keep her feelings to herself. She's stunned to learn that Nick fell for her too.

Now they date in secret, hiding away from the public eye and all that drama that goes with it. But how long can Bex keep pretending it doesn't bother her. The fairy tale romance comes with a high price. Will Bex have a happily ever after of her own?

My Thoughts;  I LOVED this book, which make sense because I love learning about the royal family. I devoured this book in one day, loving the modern day fairy tale aspect of the book. 

I loved watching Bex and Nick's relationship grow from the moment they met. The dealt with a lot of issues, misunderstandings, and family members who were not on their side.

The royal family (except for the charming younger brother) isn't impressed with Bex. They're not welcoming and have no intention of seeing her become part of the family. The drama and secrets pile up, shaking things up for the two lovebirds.

I wasn't a big fan of Bex's twin either. She seemed lost in Bex's new world and while I understood that loss, her actions were not sisterly. 

I loved the moments between the friends from University - they were entertaining, quick witted, and sweet. I liked watching how those relationships changed over the years.

This book is all about relationships - between family, between friends, and most importantly between yourself and the person who understands you the best. 

Cover Thoughts: Sweet
Source: From the Library

Final Thoughts: If you're interested in the lives of Royal families, don't let this book pass you by. It's one of my favorites books I've read this year. 

Upcoming Adult Review: If You Only Knew

Rachel sees a sext sent to her husband. When she asks if he's having an affair, he denies it. She takes him at his word, but lately, she's wondering if her marriage is stale. How did she get into the rut being a stay a home mom?

Jenny's marriage fell apart in flames, but she's still friends with her ex-husband and his new wife.  She moves to the suburbs and opens her own bridal shop. Jenny moves into a house with a grumpy landlord, who just might be the one thing she needs right now.

Two sisters couldn't be more different, but they're there for each other when the going gets tough.

My Thoughts: I really loved this book - it's a little bit different from the author's other books. It's a women's fiction instead of romance. It had to the same humor, the same strong family bonds, and the same lovable flawed main characters who go through hell.

I loved Jenny - and her attempting to play nice with her ex-husband and his new family even though she was torn up inside. I loved learning more about her dress shop and how she dealt with her brides and their families. I liked her conversations with Leo - how she was more handy than him. I liked her interactions with Evander - he stole my heart. I want him to succeed so badly. 

I loved Rachel and her triplets. The triplets stole my heart - they were charming  entertaining, and sweet. 

I felt badly for their mother, who didn't have an easy life but who stung her daughters frequently. I hated that Jenny had to keep such a big secret to herself for all those years. 

While the men in the book moved the story, I felt that the heart of the novel happened between the two sisters.

Cover Thoughts: I like it, but it doesn't really tell much about the story
Source: Signed ARC at BEA!
Release Date: This book comes out August 25th

Final Thoughts: I devoured this book, loving the sisters' story. They've both brave independent women who find themselves. Right up my alley. Don't miss this one, add it to your TBR list now!

Adult Review: Barefoot Season

Michelle owns an inn on Blackberry Island, but she hasn't been back home in ten years for personal reasons. Now after 2 tours in Afghanistan and Iraq, an injury brings her home.

The inn she left looks very different today. Her mother, who recently died, just about ran it into the ground. Michelle's ex BFF has been working there ever since Michelle left, helping it run smoothly.

Now Michelle and Carly have to find a way to work together to save the inn - despite their past.  Michelle struggles with re-entering the real world. Will the fight to save the inn and working with Carly be too much for her?

My Thoughts: I've read novels about men finding their place after returning home from war, but this book is the first one I've read about from a woman's perspective. And it was powerful. I felt horrible for Michelle as she dealt with the pain of her injury and trying to come to terms with being back home.  My heart went out to Chance - I teared up at one point. I loved the banter between Carly and Michelle - even though it was hurtful at times, they were so honest with each other. Looking forward to reading more about this island.

Cover Thoughts: Perfect
Source: My Library

Adult Review: Cottage on Juniper Ridge

 * Book 4 in the Life in Icicle Falls series *

Jen works two jobs to pay for her new condo. She loves it, but she doesn't have any time to enjoy it. Nor does she have time to hang out with her friends and family. When her sister gives her a good about simplifying her life, Jen takes the advice to heart.

She quits her jobs, finds someone to rent her condo, and moves to the quaint town of Icicle Falls.  Can she slow down and enjoy life again or will she miss the hustle of her old ways?

My Thoughts: I love this small town and seeing characters from the previous books. I love the idea of slowing down and enjoying life - sometimes everything seems to passing me by in a blur. This book made me want to start baking all the recipes on my Pinterest board and start creating more.  I loved the ladies of the bookclub and how they started to look at their lives and see pieces that need fixing. I really liked Garrett, especially the banter between him and Jen. Plus the moments between him and his son were precious. A wonderful book that made my reading day, but also got me thinking.

Cover Thoughts: Love it!
Source: My Library

Adult Review: Once in a Lifetime

 * Book 9 in the Lucky Harbor series *

Aubrey's had a rough year, but she's determined to succeed. She plans to re-open her decease Aunt's bookstore and make it a warm inviting place.  In working in the building, Audrey decides that she also needs to work on herself.

She writes a list of people she's wronged and works through it trying to right her past. Ben's on that list and given their chemistry, it's going to be hard to acknowledge her mistake. What if she loses him?

My Thoughts: I Love this series so much. I loved Audrey's story - trying to find inner peace and admitting to past failings. I admire that. I love that she's working to make the bookstore a cozy place for reading and hanging out. I really Enjoyed Bemn - especially his interactions with the kids. It was very sweet. As always, the ladies of town make it giggle. Another fabulous Lucky Harbor novel; I hope this series never ends.

Cover Thoughts: Cute
Source: My Library

Adult Review: Waiting on You

 * Book 3 in the Blue Heron series *

Colleen's been helping people find the right person for years. Unfortunately for her, she has yet to find that person for her. Once upon a time, she thought she and Lucas would be forever, until everything changed.

Suddenly Lucas is back in town and Colleen can't stop thinking about them. They become friendly again, but she's cautious. She doesn't want him breaking her heart - again. But she still has questions about the past. In getting her answers, her heart might soften. Is she in for another heartbreak?

My Thoughts: I really love this series and the small town charm. I loved Colleen in the other books and am so glad she has her own book. I enjoyed her relationship with her brother - all the banter, but sweetness underneath. I enjoyed her mother trying to figure out her life. I really liked Paulie and her attempts to win over Bryce. Those scenes were priceless and made me laugh out loud - hard. I felt horrible for Lucas - for his childhood, for not belonging anywhere, and for trying desperately to figure things out. A fantastic book, one that's perfect for summer. 

Cover Thoughts: Cute
Source: My Library
Fun Fact: Book 4! In Your Dreams is coming in Sept. and it's about Jack

Adult Review: Come Home to Me

* Book 6 in the Whiskey Creek series *

Presley returns home after two years - sober and with a toddler. She's opening a yoga and massage retreat center. More than anything, she hopes to put her past behind her.

The one person from her past she can't seem to escape is Aaron. He's still in town, although he's supposed to be moving soon. Unfortunately for Presley, he's still interested in her. Luckily, he's also still in the dark about their son.

Can Presley really start over with him still in her life?

My Thoughts: I love this series. I really like how Presley turned her life around. I loved the moments between her and her son - they were so cute and full of love. I liked her relationship with Arron - even though they had some tense moments. I didn't really like Cheyenne's storyline - it was sad and I wasn't a fan of her choice. Because Presley wasn't part of the main group, there were snippets, but I missed hearing more about the others. So looking forward Eve's story.

Cover Thoughts: Love it
Source: ARC for review

Adult Review: Breakfast at Darcy's

Darcy's Aunt Molly died leaving her a choice. In her will, she left Holly an island - where she has to live for a year with 15 other people. Only after the year is complete will she earn the rest of the inheritance.

Her aunt wants Darcy to recapture the magic from her childhood. Darcy feels terrible that she neglected her aunt the past couple years. So she decided to throw caution to the wind.

With the help of her lawyer and handyman, she advertises the island getaway to gain people. With an odd assortment of people, Darcy begins her year, but will she make it through? 

My Thoughts: I really enjoyed this book. I liked Darcy and her attitude and how she lived up to the challenges. I liked her lawyer who was kind and eventually a little bit funny. I enjoyed the description of the island - the beauty of it and while I might go there for a vacation, I'm not sure I could live there. I really liked Dermot and his gruffness, but also his sweet side.  His daughter was a breath of fresh air too as well as the puppies. Another great read from this author - so looking forward to more of her books.

Cover Thoughts: DOESN'T match the book at all. I thought this was a winter romance based on the cover, which is adorable.
Source: Purchased

Adult Review: Anything But Love

* Cupcake Lovers Series #3 *

Luke and Rachel had a moment - but that was all they had. She disappeared without a word. He had his almost-brother-in-law track her down. Right before Christmas, he found her again.

Again they had a moment.

Rachel returns to town days later - with a secret. She spent the last year in Sugar Creek incognito. Her real name is Rae and she's an heiress. Now she recognizes that the year she spent in Vermont, was the best year of her life. She made friends, developed feelings for Luke, and now she's in a position to do some good for the community.

Can she make it work or will life have a different plan for her?

My Thoughts: I really love this series - I love the small town charm. I love the chain of gossip and how everyone knows everything. I felt bad for Rae - how she had to make up a different persona to find herself, but I love that she's strong enough to come back and face the town afterwards. I love how Luke's responding to her and how he's finally found a love that could last. I love seeing favorite characters from other books in the series. 

Cover Thoughts: Adorable

Source: My Library.

Adult Review: Union Street Bakery

When Daisy was 3, her mother left her at a bakery and never looked back. The McCrae's who owned the bakery, adopted her.

Thirty years later, Daisy's back working at the bakery after having lost her job, her apartment, and her boyfriend. While she doesn't mind helping out her family, a part of her feels left out and missing.

When an old family friend passes away, she leaves Daisy an journal from the 1850s. Confused, Daisy enlists the help of her historian sister, Margaret.
The two sisters make a startling discovery about history, their lives, and their family.  With this news, perhaps Daisy can find the confidence and the courage she needs to take charge of her life again.

My Thoughts: Although a slow building novel, I was sucked in. I felt bad for Daisy losing her way, for feeling like an outsider in her family, and for her abandonment issues.  I liked her interactions with Rachel - both the sweet and the bad tempered ones. I liked her snarky interactions with Margaret and love them working together in the historical research. I liked how Daisy came in and took control of the books and started to turn things around. I would hate for the family to lose the bakery that's been in their family for generations. I loved the parts in the bakery especially the making of the treats. I'm so looking forward to more in this series and learning more about this family.

Cover Thoughts: Love it
Source: My Library