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REVIEW ~ IT MUST BE TRUE THEN by Luci Adams

Writer by night, data by day author Luci Adams comes a funny and timeless novel in the vein of Sophie Cousens and Kelly Harms,
It Must Be True Then

One horrible, “bury your head under the covers” kind of day, two adorable children to nanny; and their very hot, very single father.

Daisy has realized you really can hit rock bottom when you lose your job, your boyfriend, and are estranged from your sister all at once. Seeking to claw her way out from the very definition of a bad year, her plan is to start by simply looking like she’s clawing her way out of rock bottom. On Instagram. Obviously.

But when she takes a stopgap job as a nanny to help a single father with his two young girls, being immersed in a close-knit, loving family starts to poke holes in her plan. Can making her not-so-picture-perfect life look perfect online really help her derailed career get back on track? Can it mend her relationship with her unreliable and painfully irritating sister? And can it get her back in the arms of her unbelievably beautiful and shallow ex…and as she gets closer to someone new, does she even want to?

A sparkling and bright novel of love, second chances, and finding your way in the age of ennui and influencers, It Must Be True Then is a delight for the millennial and Gen Z age.

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Narrated by Josie Charles, start listening to
It Must Be True Then

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5-Stars ~ Reviewed by Sharon Thérèse

Illustrated book covers aren’t usually my thing, but sometimes I come across one that makes me sit back, ponder and appreciate. It Must Be True Then book jacket took my breath away. It’s all about familiarity, the skyline of London in the background, those few words on the left that flared my reading appetite, and the heroine opening her arms to what I would imagine adventure. Consequently, I was intrigued even before reading the first line.

I love discovering new authors, and Lili Adams is my most recent favourite. Not knowing what to expect, she drew me into Daisy’s story with much more than just lightheartedness. Romance comedy has to keep me immersed because otherwise, I quickly lose interest–yeah, it’s hard to make me laugh. However, I devoured every single word while chuckling and swooning.

I found it incredibly easy to relate to Daisy. We’ve all had embarrassing mishaps at some time or another, and her ones are no exception. Moreover, losing her job as a data analyst, falling out with her sister and getting dumped by her boyfriend–he’s a real piece of work, only adds insult to injury. Weakened, she’s determined to step up her game and get back on track. Where does she do it? One solution is posting on a social media platform, naturally! However, it’s a far cry from showing reality.

Daisy’s voyage of self-discovery is enhanced when she befriends single dad Archie and his beautiful daughters. Adams has questioned acceptance and dexterously weaves the significance of happiness in the now amidst coming to terms with past truths. Narrated from Daisy’s perspective, she also took me to a place I’d all love to visit.

Observing Archie and Daisy get to know each other well favours this immensely gratifying read. Adam’s building of the slow burn is utterly delectable, giving readers an in-depth look at their emotions, insecurities and joint growth. And the girls–my word, so unalike but so endearing. Give me energetic interactions in family dynamics any day, and I’m all in!

Although steaminess doesn’t abound, which I am eternally grateful for, being spoilt with laugh-out-loud scenes and heartfelt memorable moments brings out all the feels and inspires readers to step out of their comfort zone. I thoroughly enjoyed Adam’s offering and cannot recommend it highly enough. Bravo!

Thank you to St. Martin’s Press and NetGalley in favour of an honest review.

Leaving LAMDA for Leeds and graduating with a first-class degree in Maths, Luci spent her early career torn between creativity and logic until she realised it’s possible to do both.

She started out life in the tax world before swiftly seeing the light. She has since worked copywriting for Apple Music, assisting with Amazon and BBC productions at Working Title Television and now works as an analyst at the Guardian by day whilst writing tales of heartbreak, adventure and truly terrible dates by night.

She lives in leafy St Albans and when she’s not writing, she spends her time drawing, animating and exploring the countryside with her little puppy.

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IF YOU HATE ME by Helena Hunting

Thrilled to be sharing our 5-star review of New York Times and USA Today bestselling author Helena Hunting’s brand new enemies-to-lovers, brother’s best friend hockey romance, and the first standalone novel in The Toronto Terror Series,
If You Hate Me

My new roommates are two pro hockey players.
First, my manwhore older brother, and second, his seriously hot best friend (who I seriously hate).
This was a last resort.
No one should be sleeping on a futon that smells like Cheetos and ball sweat.
But here I am, trying to get my life together.

Tristan Stiles is the bane of my existence.
He never wears a shirt.
We can’t seem to stop fighting.
He’s an arrogant playboy with a filthy reputation.
Sure, I had a crush on him when I was fourteen, but that was a long time ago.
I know better than to trust him.

I just need to survive long enough to find a new job and get a new place.
And not accidentally let Tristan show me exactly how well-deserved his reputation is.

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5-Stars ~ Reviewed by Sharon Thérèse

Hunting’s an expert in getting that hockey romance vibe over to her readers. Putting her love and knowledge of the sport into words, et voilà, it’s the bomb on ice and infinitely much more! I not only read her latest offering but also listened to it. Where do I start? The two narrators turned her standalone novel into something spectacular. Apart from the unputdownable book, they conveyed all the feels and steaminess—yes, it’s a scorcher! So whichever way floats your boat, don’t hesitate to dive in head first to this laugh-out-loud yet angst-ridden story.

It’s not all plain sailing for Tristen Styles and his best friend Flip Madden’s sister, Beatrix, aka Rix, which you must have cottoned onto from the title. And the cover? Well, even though I’m not a fan of illustrated ones, this was a case of love at first sight. It gives you that ‘what are they going to do about it next’ air, opening your reading/listening appetite. Its slow burn is provocatively exciting, and for those who have decided to one-click the audio, get ready for Connor Crais’ swoony-worthy voice, whose portrayal of Tristen is the bee’s knees. CJ Bloom’s tone sounded exactly how I would have imagined Rix to be, and their togetherness storyteller pitch was so authentic that they gave me a vivid picture of each character’s emotions.

Despite being constantly tested, and by whom you may ask, Rix’s heart is in the right place. Underlining this statement, she is such a generous gal that I took to her at the drop of a hat. And since she has a lot on her plate, her patience with all the goings-on is nothing less than virtuoso. Without letting the odd living situation get the better of her, her determination to make life more bearable for all kicks in. On the other hand, Tristen is quite the dilemma, his cranky attitude throwing me slightly off balance. But learning his reasons at a perfectly excruciating pace almost did me in. Beneath his tough exterior, especially while interacting with teammates and trying to get to know Rix even better than before, I couldn’t have wished for a more compassionate soul towards the folk he cares for. The sensitivity used while dealing with a past lingering happening and on a different spectrum, the lack of childhood praise one of them had to come to terms with, is literally unprecedented.

Returning to Tristen and Rix’s love-to-hate relationship, their push-and-pull dynamics exasperated me in the best possible way. Theirs is an exhilarating rollercoaster ride enhanced by the narrators’ cadence, bringing out Hunting’s risqué storytelling–the sizzling attraction, banter, witty comebacks, and off-the-charts scenes. LOL, you might want to think twice before adding an elongated vegetable to your next salad!

Hunting’s writing shines from the first page to the last. Her naughtiest-enemies-to-lovers fan-grabbing romance to date, you’ll get an unsettling beginning, a solidly told middle and an epilogue that’ll make you—well, just read it! I cannot recommend If You Hate Me More. Simply Bravo, Hunting and to the narrators, good job done!

SNEAK PEEK

It smells like Cheetos, beer, possibly ball sweat, and a hint of men’s deodorant in here. My stomach gurgles ominously as I lie on the futon in the loft of my older brother’s condo. If I can’t sleep, I might as well call my best friend and fill her in.

“I have fifteen minutes between clients. What the heck is going on?” Essie asks when she answers.

It’s noisy from the big event she’s working. Her makeup brushes click and clink as they’re cleaned and slotted away while she waits for the next person to fill her chair.

“I imploded my life,” I tell her, succinct and accurate.

“This sounds bad. What happened?”

“I rage-quit my job and moved out of my apartment.”

It sounds even worse when I say it aloud. I’m so disappointed in myself. Asking my brother if I could stay at his place feels like the ultimate failure—he’s a professional hockey player, and I’m now unemployed and un-homed. I’m lucky I even caught him between ice time and going out.

“Did your roommates invite you to join their sex party again?” she asks.

“They did.”

“Why the hell can’t they take no for an answer? That’s harassment!”

I smile. I appreciate her indignation on my behalf. “Look, I respect anyone doing whatever gets their rocks off, but listen when I say no thank you. And then my boss dropped four boxes of receipts on my desk at the end of the day and said they needed to be sorted by nine tomorrow, so I lost my shit and quit.”

And when I got home, Eugenia was tied to a pillar in the living room. Naked. That was the last straw and the reason I’ve ended up here. On this futon.

“Seriously?” I can practically see Essie shaking her head. “That’s the fourth time that’s happened! You lasted two and a half months longer than I would have.”

“I really wanted it to work out, you know? It was my first real job at a firm. I had benefits and a steady paycheck, and now I have nothing.” How could I be so stupid and reactive?

“You are highly employable, Rix. You graduated at the top of your class. Come to Vancouver. Where are you staying now? Please don’t say a Motel Heaven.”

“Almost as bad, I’m at my brother’s.” I love Flip. He’s a great brother, and he’s helped me out financially in the past, but this clearly indicates that I’ve failed at taking care of myself. I hate that I’ve messed up my life so completely after being so careful.

“Oh my God. Rix.”

“It gets worse.” Because not only did I lose my job and my apartment, so I get to sleep on a futon in his loft with no doors or privacy, but I also did the unthinkable.

“Worse how?” Essie asks.

“I went to the Pink Taco. And I always overdo it.” Especially when I’m mid-tragedy. I love those freaking tacos.

“Tell me you didn’t have the refried beans.”

“I had the refried beans. And several margaritas.” So stupid. And expensive.

“Rix, you know better.”

“I know. My stomach sounds like a beast lives in there. A bean-fueled beast. I also might have left Rob an emotional, half-drunk voicemail.”

When Rob moved across the country, from Toronto to the east coast, to pursue his master’s, I wanted to try long distance. He was pragmatic and did not. We were together for more than a year, so I’m still sore about it. I’d thought we were heading toward moving in together, toward stability and next steps, so being over sucked, even if it was the right thing to do.

“Dude, you broke up months ago. Noooo.” Essie groans.

“Yeah.”

“What kind of message?”

“Not one I want to repeat. Maybe he won’t listen to it.” He’ll listen to it.

“Babe, seriously, come to Vancouver. There are accounting jobs here.”

“It’s enticing.” But also impractical, irresponsible, and expensive. I’ve capped out on all three tonight alone.

The sound of someone trying to get into the condo downstairs has me rushing to get off the phone. “I think my bro’s home. I’ll message later.”

“’Kay. Love you more than chocolate ice cream.”

“Same.” I end the call and press my phone to my chest. Emotions clog my throat.

I don’t want to explain this to my brother. I’m horrified by the whole thing.
The front door opens, and I take a deep breath, preparing for the inevitable embarrassing conversation. The kitchen lights flicker on.
“Ah, f*ck. Shit. Too bright!” A deep voice echoes off the high ceilings.

My stomach gurgles as I tense. Stupid refried beans. It’s not my brother, Phillip—Flip. That started when I was a kid and couldn’t pronounce his name. Now it’s an ongoing joke because he’s a next-level f*ckboy, as in “Flip me over and do me from behind.”
Unfortunately, it seems that my brother’s teammate and roommate, Tristan, is home. He sounds different, though. Which makes sense since he was eighteen when I last saw him in three dimensions, and he’s in his mid-twenties now. His voice is deeper, grittier.

It’s hitting home exactly what I’ve signed up for by asking to stay here. My brother I can deal with. His best friend is a whole different story—and the condo actually belongs to Tristan. When Flip was traded to the Terror, Toronto’s pro team, he was so excited about getting to play with his childhood best friend that he moved in with him, too.

“Lights off!” Tristan slurs.

The condo goes dark. There’s some shuffling and then an oof and a grunt. “Motherhumping sh!tbag. Baffrum leg on!” More stumbling around in the dark. More swearing. Something hits the floor with a loud bang. “Bathroom light on.” He enunciates each word slowly, with less slurring.

I stay in my coffin-style pose on the futon upstairs. He can’t see me from here. I’d prefer to defer my first interaction with Tristan in nearly a decade since he’s clearly shitfaced, and I’ve had a shit day.

I lie as still as possible and work on breathing quietly.

The fridge opens. “F*ck. I need t’order gro’ries.” The door falls closed. More rustling. More swearing. “Stupid shots. Ah, sh!t.”

I give in to curiosity and roll onto my stomach, peeking over the arm of the couch. Tristan’s standing at the island, half a jug of orange juice spilled across the counter, the puddle making its way to the edge. He yanks his shirt over his head and drops it on the spreading liquid, but instead of containing the mess, it drips onto his feet. He stumbles backward into the fridge.

I’m unable to appreciate his shirtless-ness before he grumbles more profanities and disappears. Not that I want to appreciate all those rippling muscles earned by countless hours on the ice. Because I don’t. Mostly.

Releasing July 11th, pre-order If You Want Me

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A standalone age-gap, best friend’s daughter hockey romance.

There’s no one more off limits than my best friend’s daughter.

Peggy Aurora Hammerstein. The Toronto Terror’s unofficial team princess. I would never do anything to mess with our team dynamics this late into the hockey season, but seeing her work in the front office changed something for me.

I see her as she is now: a powerful woman with ambition for miles.

When I hold her against me, she fits perfectly.

THer little flirts and taunts push my buttons, if she doesn’t stop–my control just might break.

But I can never cross that line. I can never know what it could be to call her mine.

I’ve never wanted anyone more than Aurora and no one can ever know.

*This is Hollis Hendrix’s standalone novel. If you want to meet Hollis before you read this book, check out If You Hate Me, Rix and Tristan’s story.

NYT and USA Today bestselling author, Helena Hunting lives outside of Toronto with her amazing family and her two awesome cats, who think the best place to sleep is her keyboard. Helena writes everything from contemporary romance with all the feels to romantic comedies that will have you laughing until you cry.

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THE SURROGATE by Penelope Ward

Today we’re thrilled to be sharing the release of NYT and USA Today bestselling author Penelope Ward’s outstanding must-read all-new contemporary romance standalone with a forbidden twist,
The Surrogate

ABBY:
I’m falling for the father of the baby I’m carrying.
The problem is: it’s not my baby.
And the broody widower is not looking for a long-term partner.
As a surrogate, the deal was that I’d only be in England long enough to give birth.
At first, the man seemed as pretentious as his name: Sigmund Benedictus.
He and I butted heads.
Sig challenged my intentions, accused me of just wanting to do this for the money.
Gradually, he learned to trust me.
He even became protective.
Over time, our heated animosity turned into fiery chemistry.
I was falling in love with him.
But my time here had a limit.
I needed to protect my heart from the devastatingly gorgeous older man who’d end up breaking it.
SIG:
When my in-laws told me they wanted to use my dead wife’s eggs to conceive a grandchild, I wasn’t immediately on board.
They swore that on her deathbed Britney told them it was what she wanted—but only if I fathered the baby. Her parents insisted they would be the ones to raise it.
Against my better judgment, I agreed.
I vowed to keep my heart out of it, though.
I’d continue to pretend it wasn’t happening and live the empty, single life I’d become accustomed to the past five years since Britney died.
And despite the fact that a certain younger American named Abby Knickerbocker had awakened things inside me that I thought were long dead…
I most certainly wouldn’t fall in love with the surrogate.

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Narrated by Jacob Morgan and Desireé Ketchum, start listening to
The Surrogate

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5-Stars ~ Reviewed by Sharon Thérèse

Once again, Ward’s storytelling prowess captivates her readers with a slow-burn standalone romance, masterfully weaving together profoundly heartfelt and intense feelings, relatable characters and beautiful settings. Those who have read The Aristocat will be familiar with one of its characters who had a lasting effect on us and whose story we’ve all been hastily waiting for.

How original is this? Every chapter interlocks with a song title, giving me a rhythmic feel of anticipation. Also, I made every effort to go into Ward’s love story blind, so my excitement was tenfold. Therefore, I would recommend doing the same to get the full emotional impact of the story.

It takes a remarkable person to take on what Abby was about to do so unselfishly. I loved how her father’s close friends supported her throughout and how she fit into her new surroundings, her host welcoming her from the very start. My heart went out to Sigmund. Sometimes, when a new reality presents itself, moving forward has its complications. And wow, did Ward’s words pack the punch or what? I teared up while reading about him going through his dilemma. That said, Abby’s presence gets to Sigmund–they reach an understanding, her compassion helping him to heal, making room for a soul-stirring friendship.

However, no one has complete control over who they fall for. Vulnerabilities play their part; thinking about what the future holds, accepting the now and making the most of it was what Ward has accomplished perfectly. Kudos to her for handling the delicate subject she’d chosen to write about with such sensitivity, too.

I took my time reading The Surrogate. Sigmund and Abby’s story is awe-inspiring, and I felt they deserved all my attention. Observing them together was a joy; meeting Felicity, Leo, and Lavina anew was a real treat, and the unique plot, seamless narrative flow, witty banter and steaminess are second to none. Bravo, Ward!

EXCERPT

My phone rang, and I looked down to find it was Lourdes, a woman I’d hung out with over a year ago. She’d been texting me lately to get together, and I’d been ignoring her messages. I silenced the ringer.
“Who was that?” Abby asked.
“Someone named—none of your business.”
“A woman? Is that why you’re in such a rush to get back to London?”
“Trust me, I haven’t met anyone worth rushing anywhere for.”
“Well, excuse me, Mr. Picky.”
I rolled over a bit to face her, resting my chin on my hand. “You think it’s odd to be selective?”
“I don’t think you’re being selective. I think you’re closed off to everyone. There’s a difference.”
“You seem to have me pegged, but what about you? Why are you single?”
“I had a bad experience, as I think I’ve mentioned, and haven’t felt like having my heart toyed with again.”
“How long ago was that? The guy who broke up with you…”
“Nearly three years now.”
“But you’ve dated since that breakup.”
“Yeah. There’ve been a few brief…”
“Hookups?” I arched a brow.
“I guess I can admit that now that you’re not actively assessing my character.”
“Why would I judge you for that? Sex is natural—necessary for survival, if you ask me.”
“You just don’t want to have anything to do with the women after.”
Unable to deny it, I shrugged. “There haven’t been that many women since Britney. At least nothing compared to when I was younger. Most of the time, I meet someone and decide not to go through with anything. But of the encounters I have had, yeah, it’s never mattered whether I saw them again.”
“What was different about Britney? I mean, when you met her? How did you know she was the one?”
My chest constricted. “I’d love to be able to give you a less cliché answer—because I hate clichés—but I just knew. After about an hour together, I never wanted to be apart from her.”
“Fair enough. They say that’s what happens sometimes. You just know.”
“You’ve never experienced that?”
“Nope.” Abby shook her head. “Still waiting for it to happen to me.” She smiled. “Anyway, for the record, I don’t just hook up with people randomly, like some people.” She elbowed me. “I have to know them first.”
“Knowing you, Abby, I can’t imagine you not asking someone a million questions before you sleep with them.”
“Well, yeah. I need to know who I’m dealing with. I’m not going to waste my time with anyone who’s not a good person—even if I’m wildly attracted to them.”
“Sometimes less is more,” I mumbled.
“This from the man who interrogated me the first time he met me.”
“Well, I need to know a bit more about someone who’s going to be carrying my child than I would someone I’m merely going to…”
“F*ck?” She finished my sentence.
The word on her tongue gave me an unwanted thrill. I wouldn’t have minded hearing her say it a few more times, which probably meant I needed my head checked.
“You wanna go?” she asked.
Somehow I’d forgotten my urgency to leave. I’d become pretty comfortable in this spot on the hay. It wasn’t about the hay at all, though, was it?
“Well, now you’ve made me lazy. You’re a bad influence, Knickerbocker.”
She leaned her head on her hand. “Why don’t you just sleep at the inn tonight? Lavinia loves your company.”
“She’ll be conked out by the time we get back there, but I suppose you have a point. At this hour, I might as well just drive into London with you in the morning.”
“You keep work clothes at The Bainbridge, right?”
“Yes. I have everything I need in my room.” I looked out through the barn door. It was now completely nightfall. “Now that it’s dark, you need to be careful driving back.”
“You’ll be behind me anyway, in case I run into trouble, right?”
“Well, you won’t find me driving in front of you ever again,” I teased.
“Good one.” She laughed as she stood and brushed off her dress. “Can you turn around for a minute?”
I narrowed my eyes but did as she asked. “Okay…why am I doing this?”
A few seconds passed. “All good now.”
“What was that all about?” I asked.
“You promise not to make fun of me?”
“No. But tell me anyway.”
“I had a piece of hay stuck in my underwear.” She flashed a goofy smile.
And then…I laughed for what felt like the first time in years.

Penelope Ward is a New York Times, USA Today and #1 Wall Street Journal bestselling contemporary romance author.

She grew up in Boston with five older brothers and spent most of her twenties as a television news anchor. Penelope resides in Rhode Island with her husband, son, and beautiful daughter with autism.

With over two million books sold, she is a twenty-one-time New York Times bestseller and the author of over twenty novels. Her books have been translated into over a dozen languages and can be found in bookstores worldwide.

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OTHER MUST-READS BY PENELOPE WARD

The Aristocrat

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I Could Never

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Toe the Line

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REVIEW ~ STRICTLY NOT YOUR by Carrie Elks

From international bestselling author Carrie Elks comes the fourth standalone novel in The Salinger Brothers series, a rivetingly angsty romance, Strictly Not Yours

I thought I knew everything about my rich, neat-freak doctor of a boss. Until I walked into a fight club and our eyes clashed across the ring…

Holden Salinger is a pediatric oncologist and for the last two years I’ve been cleaning his swanky New York apartment.

I know every intimate detail about him, from his overly large shoe size to his toothpaste tube rolling obsession.

But he doesn’t even know I exist. The man couldn’t pick me out in a police lineup.

Until I get a second job working at a local bar, only to discover there’s a secret back room. One with a boxing ring right in the center. And when I see him vault into it, muscles rippling, I realize he’s not the man I thought he was.

From the moment our gazes clash, the chemistry between us is sizzling. And when he becomes my unexpected savior, my heart takes a tumble I’m not expecting.

Falling for him is such a bad idea. If he finds out who I really am, he’d never want to touch me.

So let’s not tell him, okay?

Cinderella meets Fight Club in this gripping new romance from Carrie Elks. Find out why readers are falling for the Salinger Brothers today…

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5-Stars ~ Reviewed by Sharon Thérèse

I knew Strictly Not Yours was right up my alley from the first chapter. Indeed, Ms Elks’ storytelling was so addictive that I devoured it in one go, thus ignoring everyone around me and everything I had to do. Even though I hadn’t read the previous books in The Salinger Brothers series, I was never confused and connected with the secondary characters in such a way that now I want to get to know all of Holden’s brothers and learn about their better halves.

The premise is as extraordinary as it is in originality, and the well-thought-out pacing kept me engaged on every page. By now, those of you who know me are well aware that I’m a banter snob! Ms Elks has not only gone to town with witty remarks but also gave the dialogue a realistic depth. How could she not when the protagonists are thirty-forty-something years old, have a strong sense of responsibility and are always on the go?

Of course, the story wouldn’t be what it is without a catch or two. And despite the reader knowing one is hovering in the background, Ms Elks kept me on tenterhooks. Having no idea how the person would react once they found out built up the tension, and the other twist left me reeling.

Since I have no wish to spoil the read for you, just a few words about Blair and Holden. Blair’s multi-task abilities wowed me, but I was concerned she’d taken on more than she could handle. Generous of heart, hard-working, studious and determined to build a brighter future, she puts her sister and nephew first. On the other hand, Holden is a bit of an enigma. He has no time for socialising, doesn’t do relationships for reasons you’ll find out for yourselves and considering his profession, his tension release is a tad peculiar.

Not only did I adore observing Holden and Blair’s nephew together, but also the family dynamics. Rose, who works in the same place as him, sold me with her good-natured nudges, and Mabel’s young mind will bring out all the feels. Now to the nitty-gritty! Regardless of a strictly non-negotiable rule which might or might not be bent, their off-the-charts chemistry steams up the pages! A solid five stars for this angsty romance that is well worth diving into blind. Bravo, Ms Elks!

Author Carrie Elks writes contemporary romance with a sizzling edge. Her first book, Fix You, has been translated into eight languages and made a surprise appearance on Big Brother in Brazil. Luckily for her, it wasn’t voted out.

Carrie lives with her husband, two lovely children and a larger-than-life black pug called Plato. When she isn’t writing or reading, she can be found baking, drinking an occasional (!) glass of wine, or chatting on social media.

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What Happens at the Lake by Vi Keeland

Today we’re thrilled to be sharing New York Times and Wall Street Journal bestselling author Vi Keeland’s brand new grumpy-sunshine novel,
What Happens at the Lake

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When life took an unexpected turn, I decided to get out of New York for a while. What better place to go than the idyllic small town my father spoke about so fondly when I was growing up? Laurel Lake held the title America’s Friendliest Town for seventeen years running, and friendly was just what I needed right now.

Unfortunately, friendly wasn’t the welcome I got when I arrived.

Instead, I got Fox Cassidy. My tall, dark, and burly neighbor, who grunted at me instead of saying hello.

Okay, so I might’ve had his mailbox in my hands the first time we met. And it might’ve been a little crushed after removing it from under my tire. And I might’ve needed his help breaking into the place I was staying in after the key broke off in the lock. But still…he didn’t have to be so grumpy.

As time went on though, I started to notice things about Fox other than his glares. Like how he watched me when he thought I wasn’t looking, or how fire ignited in his eyes whenever we bickered. Though I was in Laurel Lake to escape my problems, not create new ones. And getting involved with a man like Fox screamed trouble, even if he was gorgeous and unlike any man I’d ever met.

But alas, problem seemed to be my middle name this year. So why not have some fun while I was here for the summer? It seemed like a good plan. At least until it was time to go home…

They say what happens at the lake, stays at the lake. But it’s not so easy to walk away when what stays behind…is your heart.

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What Happens at the Lake

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5-Stars ~ Reviewed by Sharon Thérèse

Love grumpy-sunshine, opposites attract novels? Then, What Happens at the Lake will be right up your alley. Ms Keeland’s way with words brings out all the emotions in a picturesque small-town setting where anything a little bit out of the ordinary is head-line worthy. Yes, gossip spreads like wildfire; however, the villagers are always willing to support each other.

Josie has a good excuse to move to America’s Friendliest Town temporarily. Nonetheless, her first meetup with the next-door neighbour was far from amicable and pretty awkward on her part. Okay, so this adorable, caring young lady couldn’t be more clumsy, but much to Fox Cassidy’s astonishment, she’s a knockout and has a sassy attitude—only with him, it seems.

Although Josie has had some hiccups along the way, she’s eager to get her life back on track. If that means accepting Fox’s help—well, why not? After all, not only does he know what he’s doing, but he’s quickly become her daily dose of eye candy. That said, it’s not as easy as it sounds. Keeland kept me on my toes by taking things a step further. Grouchy loner but big softy at heart, he’s the last person to put his nose into anyone’s affairs, least of all hers. Yet she still stirs his curiosity. And neither of them wants to start having feelings for reasons you’ll only find out by reading their story.

Keeland has pen power! Everything I love about a book I can lose myself in is this one. Josie and Fox’s pasts tugged on my heartstrings; the quirky Laurel Lake townsfolk sold me, and I couldn’t help getting attached to the strangest adopted pet imaginable. Hilarious moments, non-stop banter, family dynamics, dual points of view and just the right amount of steaminess are my cuppa, too! Ooh, and what I wouldn’t give to be on Josie’s card list!

I had no wish to reach the end of this swoon-worthy, feel-good romance I devoured in a day. All the stars, Keeland!

EXCERPT

She smelled like damn summer.
And it pissed me off.
Plus, I was tired from a shitty night’s sleep. I’d tossed and turned thinking about Little Miss Home Improvement wearing nothing but a pair of denim short overalls and work boots—no shirt, no socks, definitely no bra or underwear.
Josie hopped down from the last two steps on the ladder. “Can I ask you something?”
“What?”
“Are you always this grumpy in the morning?”
“I’m not grumpy.”
“No? So this is what? Your idea of a sparkling personality? I asked if your coffee was okay, and you grunted at me.”
“That wasn’t a grunt. That was a yes.”
Josie made a short, deep noise that sounded like a pig.
I arched a brow. “Is that supposed to be me?”
She made the sound again, this time adding some monkeylike arm movements and jumping around. “Gronk.”
“Cute.”
She jumped again. “Gronk. Gronk.”
I tried not to react, but she was just too damn adorable.
Josie pointed at my face. “There it is again. The elusive Mr. Grumpy Pants smile. It’s kind of…dare I say…nice.” She made an exaggerated gasping sound and covered her mouth. “Oh no. I hope it’s not too painful.”
“Alright, wiseass. I get the point. How about you take your oinking ass out front and grab one of the small two by fours I left on the porch? I’ll show you how to make an easy support to hold up the drywall while it gets screwed into the ceiling.”
Josie strutted to the door. The woman was wearing a white tank top and long, pale pink, flowy skirt to do construction. It looked like she was going on a picnic date, rather than hanging sheetrock—though the tank top hugged her in all the right places, and there was something about her collarbone that I couldn’t drag my eyes away from. She bent to pick up the wood out front, and the top of her tank gaped open, giving me a clear view down her shirt. I forced my head in the other direction, though my eyes managed to slant and continue looking.
“Jesus Christ,” I grumbled to myself. “I need to get the fu¢k out of here.”

Vi Keeland is a #1 New York Times, #1 Wall Street Journal, and USA Today bestselling author. With millions of books sold, her titles are currently translated into twenty-seven languages and have appeared on bestseller lists in the US, Germany, Brazil, Bulgaria and Hungary. Three of her short stories have been turned into films by Passionflix, and two of her books are currently optioned for movies. She resides in New York with her husband and their three children where she is living out her own happily ever after with the boy she met at age six.

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Do you like texts better than email? Receive text notices of Vi’s new releases by texting the word BOOKS to 77948 You will ONLY receive a text when a new book goes live—no other messages at all!

OTHER MUST-READS BY VI KEELAND

Something Unexpected

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The Summer Proposal

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THE INVITATION

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WHERE IT BEGINS: A Pucked Novella by Helena Hunting

I was so looking forward to 1001 Dark Nights Press publishing New York Times and USA Today bestselling author Helena Hunting’s new novella in her Pucked series, and now Where It Begins available to download!

The untold story of Skye and Sidney, and the origin story where Vi and Miller are teens when their parents start dating and fall in love…

I accidentally grabbed the wrong drink at the coffee shop. On the upside, the hot guy it belonged to chased me down to kindly swap with me. On the down side, the reason I grabbed the wrong drink in the first place is because the hot guy had just caught me checking out his ass…sets.

In my defense, his rear view is rather magnificent.

In true, humiliating form, I word-vomited a bunch of horrible nonsense. Including an unnecessary explanation of the trauma I’d evaded thanks to his chasing me down. Nothing could ruin my lactose-intolerant day faster than my one true nemesis: dairy.

I did not expect him to ask me out on a date after that.

I also didn’t expect the date to go well since my tendency to truth-vomit is high, and not everyone finds that quality endearing.

But apparently he does. Because he asks me out again.
And again.

Sidney Butterson (yes, it’s a weird last name) ticks all my boxes.
He’s smart, he’s funny, he’s employed and he’s ridiculously hot.
There’s one catch.

We’re both single parents. With teens.

And if our kids don’t like each other?
Well, we’re doomed.

**Every 1001 Dark Nights novella is a standalone story. For new readers, it’s an introduction to an author’s world. And for fans, it’s a bonus book in the author’s series. We hope you’ll enjoy each one as much as we do.**

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5-Stars ~ Reviewed by Sharon Thérèse

Where It Begins is a fabulous way to start the Pucked Series, and if you’ve already read them, this standalone page-turner is one you won’t want to miss. Once again, Hunting’s way with words had me in fits of laughter and got me itching to do a reread of all the books.

Hunting treats her readers to Skye Hall–Violet’s mum, and Sidney Butterson–Miller’s dad’s story—two single parents who bumped into each other in such a cute meetup oozing with chemistry that it had me oohing and ahhing. Of course, their teenagers are very much in the foreground, so ready yourselves for lots of surprises.

Like mother, like daughter, Violet has inherited Skye’s gorgeousness, and more often than not, neither think before they speak and both trip over their own feet. Adorable together, Violet has an old soul and invariably offers her mum advice. Even though Miller occasionally slips up big-time, Sidney and his son’s relationship is phenomenal.

Despite getting the parents’ point of view, another feast for my eyes was reading a couple of chapters from their kids’ perspectives. And what a pleasure it was to watch these decidedly different young people become friends, maybe step-siblings, who knows!

This feel-good novella has something for everyone, from awkward moments with Miller, his buddies and the sweet nerdy Violet—it was an absolute delight to see what these teens get up to, and the uplifting family dynamics will most certainly brighten your day. I simply loved how Skye and Sidney handled every situation, which they made look so easy when it frankly wasn’t. Not forgetting that love is in the air, this swoon-worthy hockey romance deserves all the stars.

Start binge-reading The Pucked Series available in KU

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New York Times and USA Today bestselling author of PUCKED, Helena Hunting lives on the outskirts of Toronto with her incredibly tolerant family and two moderately intolerant cats. She writes contemporary romance ranging from new adult angst to romantic sports comedy.

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THE RULES OF DATING MY ONE-NIGHT STAND by Penelope Ward & Vi Keeland

New York Times bestselling authors Penelope Ward and
Vi Keeland return with an all-new contemporary romance stand-alone,
The Rules of Dating My One-Night Stand

Rule number one for having a one-night stand: Don’t fall for the girl.

After a lengthy dating slump, I finally met someone who sparked my interest.

Well, first the sparks flew when we argued. Later in the evening those sparks ignited into something more.

I was drawn to Devyn, in a way I hadn’t felt in a really long time.

Needless to say, I was disappointed when she abruptly left after our amazing night together.

I couldn’t stop thinking about her. But she hadn’t even given me her number.

In a city with eight million people, I figured I’d never see Devyn again.

So imagine my surprise when I knocked on the door of an apartment in the building I lived in, and none other than my one-night stand stood on the other side.

If I thought Devyn didn’t want anything to do with me before, that was nothing compared to how she felt after finding out I was the landlord and she was about to be evicted…

And that was just the first surprise that would rock my world when it came to the mystery woman in apartment 410.

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5-Stars ~ Reviewed by Sharon Thérèse

The dynamic writing duo, Ward and Keeland, are back with the third contemporary romance in The Laws of Opposites Attract stand-alone series, The Rules of Dating My One-Night Stand, and what an epic love story it is.

I thoroughly enjoyed the last two books, but this one is, without a doubt, my favourite! I became so engrossed in Devyn and Owen Dawson’s lives that I had trouble putting the book down. I look for excitement, compelling protagonists in real-life situations and a solid plot entangled with a sprinkling of angst, which the authors delivered hands down.

An unforgettable no-names one-night stand is just that. But Owen cannot get the mysteriously attractive woman who blew his mind out of his head. What Devyn did was totally out of character but a much-needed respite from her already complicated life. Nonetheless, the universe decided to play an unpredictable trick on them. How they would navigate their journey is for you to discover and will undoubtedly keep you wondering if they can overcome all the obstacles–and there are plenty!

Devyn’s generous soul melted my heart. I liked that she’s a doer, not a thinker and wants the best for the folk she deeply cares about, always looking for solutions. Owen is a true keeper, and although he’s always happy to lend Devyn a hand, she’s not used to accepting help from others. Yes, her back story is harsh, but he’ll use all his skills to make her see that she can trust him, that his heart is in the right place.

When Ward and Keeland’s storytelling inflamed my heart and fueled my imagination–when words on a page gave me all the feels, and the good-natured, flirty banter had me grinning from ear to ear, you know this is one very re-readable book. Bravo!

EXCERPT

“Can I ask you something?”
“What?”
“Were you jealous that I was out with another woman?”
Devyn looked away. “No.”
My lip twitched. “No, huh?”
“I wasn’t jealous.”
It was difficult to keep a straight face, because she was so clearly full of sh$t. But…if she wasn’t jealous, a few details wouldn’t bother her, right?
I sipped my wine and watched Devyn’s face. “Tarryn asked if I wanted to take her back to my place.”
Her eyes narrowed. “That’s nice.”
“We’ve had sex before. So I don’t think she wanted to sit on the couch and watch TV.”
Devyn’s face flushed red.
I couldn’t help myself. I wanted to see her get pissed—admit she was damn jealous.
“Yeah, that Tarryn’s a real wild woman in bed. Last time she visited, we broke a lamp. Knocked it right off the end table from the bed bouncing around so much.”
I watched the muscle flex in her cheek, the same cheek that was turning a lovely shade of crimson. Yet she still wouldn’t look at me.
“Devyn?”
Her lips pursed as she stared straight ahead.
“Devyn?” I said louder.
“What?”
“Look at me.”
Her head whipped to face me, and she stared with daggers in her eyes.
I smiled. “It wouldn’t bother you if I…fu¢ked Tarryn?”
That did it.
She broke.
But she didn’t yell at me like I expected.
Not at all.
Instead, she smashed her lips against mine.
It caught me so off guard that I took a few seconds to catch up. By the time I did, Devyn was hoisting herself over, climbing me like a freaking tree.
Fu¢k yeah.
This.
This was the chemistry we’d had from the very start.
I grabbed her a$s with one hand, lifting her higher, and guided her legs around my waist, so lost in the moment that nothing existed in the world except this kiss.
Which was probably why I didn’t hear the door open…

Meet Penelope and Vi

Penelope Ward is a New York Times, USA Today and #1 Wall Street Journal bestselling author of contemporary romance.

She grew up in Boston with five older brothers and spent most of her twenties as a television news anchor. Penelope resides in Rhode Island with her husband, son, and beautiful daughter with autism.

With over two million books sold, she is a 21-time New York Times bestseller and the author of over twenty novels. Her books have been translated into over a dozen languages and can be found in bookstores around the world.

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Vi Keeland is a #1 New York Times, #1 Wall Street Journal, and USA Today Bestselling author. With millions of books sold, her titles have appeared in over a hundred Bestseller lists and are currently translated in two dozen languages. She resides in New York with her husband and their three children where she is living out her own happily ever after with the boy she met at age six.

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OTHER MUST-READS FROM PENELOPE AND VI

The Rules of Dating My Best Friend’s Sister

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The Rules of Dating

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OTHER MUST-READS FROM PENELOPE

I COULD NEVER

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The Aristocrat

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OTHER MUST-READS FROM VI

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The Invitation

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FOUR WEDDING AND A CHRISMAS by Phillipa Ashley

From Sunday Times bestselling author Phillipa Ashley comes a heartfelt second-chance contemporary romance that will get you into the
Xmas mood even before the season starts…
Four Weddings and a Christmas

Can the spirit of Christmas reignite an old flame?

With her thriving business Cottage Angels, Freya Bolton prepares the Lake District’s holiday homes for Christmas visitors. It’s her job to think of everything, from cinnamon-scented candles to tasteful decorations and hampers of seasonal treats.

If only her love life were such a success… After being burned by past relationships, she’s now determined to steer clear of love for good.

So when she bumps into gorgeous – and single – ex-boyfriend Travis, a no-strings festive fling seems perfect.

But when her feelings for him begin to develop, is she on track for another romantic calamity? Or could this Christmas give her the gift of true love?

This gorgeous Christmas romance from Sunday Times bestseller Phillipa Ashley will take you to the Lake District with a story of second-chance love as heartwarming as a cup of mulled wine. Perfect for fans of Sarah Morgan, Karen Swan and Heidi Swain.

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🎄 4-Stars ~ Reviewed by Sharon Thérèse 🎄

Four Weddings and a Christmas is the first novel I’ve read from Ms. Ashley, and even though I devoured her latest offering in the heat of summer, it certainly got me in the Xmas mood. Her main characters pushed all my emotional buttons whilst I learned why they’d fallen apart years back. And I loved the village setting in one of the most beautiful districts of North West England, where its small-town folk are in everyone’s business. But what I liked even more was how the author wove family influence into Freya and Travis’ story, developing a sense of meaning behind their pasts.

Against all odds, Travis has made a name for himself as a nature photographer but is now ready to settle down. Freya, who has also done very well for herself, is energetic, runs her company enthusiastically, and is a friend you’d like to have around when things go haywire. It’s a question of precision timing and coincidences that they reacquaint; however, Freya hasn’t been lucky in love and is wary about being swept off her feet again. And I can’t leave Travis out because he’s had his share of knocks. However, signs give the reader expectations that they might be able to get their second chance regardless of what had occurred.

I thoroughly enjoyed getting into Travis and Freya’s thoughts. He’s a real charmer, steadfast, and gorgeous to boot. She was, for me, the definition of an English rose. The secondary character development was spot on, and there was just the right amount of low-key angst in a well-constructed plot to keep me engaged. I worried about Travis’ brother and took to Freya’s sassy mum–I loved her online skills but didn’t care much for one of her daughter’s ex-flames. Despite finding the story a tad predictable, the one-liners and snappy comebacks had me laughing out loud. This cuddle-up-to, feel-good seasonal romance entertained me, and I will certainly be exploring more of Ashley’s writing. Bravo!

Thank you to Avon Books UK and NetGalley for an advanced readers copy in favour of an honest review.

Phillipa Ashley started writing fiction in 2005, after joining an Internet creative writing site. Her first novel, Decent Exposure, a romantic comedy set in the Lake District, was published in October 2006. It won the RNA New Writers Award and was made into a TV movie called Twelve Men of Christmas which aired on the Lifetime channel in December 2009.

Since then, she’s now had 27 books published including two Sunday Times best-sellers, an Audible number 1 and many Amazon Top 10 best-selling ebooks.

Her books have been or are being translated into many languages including German, Thai, Turkish, Bulgarian, Italian and Russian.

Phillipa lives in a Staffordshire village with her husband and loves being in the great outdoors, especially Cornwall and the Lake District.

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RUSH: Deluxe Edition by Emma Scott

To be blind is not miserable; not to be able to bear blindness,
that is miserable. –John Milton

Eager to read Wall Street Journal and USA Today bestselling author Emma Scott’s new adult standalone romance RUSH: Deluxe Editon with its brand-new content, she has gone all-out to more than reacquaint us with Noah and Charlotte’s full story as the perseverance of love would have it.

Charlotte Conroy, Juilliard-trained violinist, was on the cusp of greatness when tragedy swooped down on dark wings, crushing her hopes and breaking her heart. The music that used to sing in her soul has grown quiet, and she feels on the verge of setting down her violin for good. To pay the bills, she accepts a job as a personal assistant to a bitter, angry young man who’s been disabled by a horrific accident… Noah Lake was an extreme sports athlete, journalist and photographer. He roamed the world in search of his next adrenaline high until a cliff-dive left him in a coma. He awakes to find his career gone, his dreams shattered to pieces, his world an endless blackness that will never lift. Charlotte begins to see that beneath Noah’s angry, brittle exterior is a young man in pain. She is determined to show him that his life isn’t over, that he has so much to live for, never dreaming that she would become the only light in his darkness, or that he would help her find the music in hers. The life he knew is over. The life she wants is just out of reach. Together, they must face their fears and rediscover what it means to really live.

RUSH is a STANDALONE new adult romance intended for readers eighteen and up. This Deluxe Edition includes brand new content AND the pivotal events that were off the page but included in the novella, Endless Possibility. With this edition, those events are restored to RUSH so that readers finally have Noah and Charlotte’s full story as it was meant to be.

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5 Heartbreakingly Beautiful Stars

Reviewed by Sharon Thérèse

Sometimes, it’s not easy to review a book that takes you by storm–that merits every accolade without adding those dreaded spoilers. I had so much to say and so many thoughts running riot about what I’d read, but I shall try to keep most of my many musings to myself. One thing’s for sure. Scott writes mind-blowing romances, and RUSH: Deluxe Edition is no exception. This time, she has gone all out to more than reacquaint us with Noah and Charlotte’s tale of love’s perseverance.

Let’s start with Charlotte. Struggling to make ends meet, I had the chance to meet some great or not-so-great people where she worked and had previously been studying. Beautiful, engaging and beyond benevolent, she’d lost her musical inspiration because life dealt her a painful blow. In the background of past happenings and all the present-day goings-on—a mere step away from achieving her goal, I could feel her frustration. I only prayed she’d find an incentive to pick up what she’d abandoned.

The person who, out of the blue, offered Charlotte a job instantly earned my respect. A possible respite from what she’d had to put up with gave both her and me pause. This girl I had learnt to love had a chance under the most unusual circumstances to take every day as it came. It wasn’t effortless to please someone who didn’t want help, but she was determined to make it work, much to her new employer’s consternation–horror, even. Her every move broke his walls down at a punishing pace, and if I could have jumped into the book and given her a high-five, I would have done just that.

Noah. Goodness, me! I can’t remember the last time I met someone with such a handicap as he had in any novel I’ve read. Scott goes forth by intensifying his lack of confidence and self-value. Therefore, Noah’s acceptance of fate, which had begun with denial, gave me much to think about. How he would do it remains to be seen; however, the challenge he’d set for his and Charlotte’s path to happiness would not only be arduous but hopefully help him find purpose.

Scott has delved deeply into character growth in a way that I felt as if I were there alongside Noah and Charlotte, cheering them on while they spread their wings. New and old friends, family you’d love to get to know in real life, and places you’d love to visit if you haven’t already all explained in such splendorous detail left me, once again, in awe of her storytelling. She made me sob in sorrow, shed tears of laughter and left me wanting to do a reread. Scott, simply bravo!

Emma Scott is a bestselling author of emotional, character-driven romances in which art and love intertwine to heal, and in which love always wins. If you enjoy emotionally charged stories that rip your heart out and put it back together again, with diverse characters and kind-hearted heroes, you will enjoy her novels.

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MR. HOOK-UP by Marni Mann

They’ve made the ideal connection on a hot new no-strings hook-up app. But their hearts have other plans in an unpredictable and wildly
sexy first contemporary romance in The Hooked Series
by USA Today bestselling author Marni Mann. . .
Mr. Hook-up

Hooked. An app designed for the ideal one-night stand is the brainchild of Harvard graduate students Easton Jones and his two best friends. When Easton creates his Hooked profile, he gets a 100 percent perfect match.

Who is this sure thing? Her username is Love.

Their chemistry is off-the-charts explosive, and just when Easton begins falling for her, she disconnects from the app and disappears.

Five years later, Hooked is now the number one dating app in the country.

But that’s not the only thing on fire.

Easton’s brilliant, gorgeous new recruit, Drake Madden, has ignited a desire he hasn’t experienced in years. Professionally and personally, they’re sizzling.

Just as things really start getting serious, Love resurfaces. She wants a chance to explain, and she’s sending Easton’s heart into rewind.

He has a loving woman in the flesh and a fantasy from his past—Easton’s world is about to be rocked.

And rocked hard.

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4-Stars ~ Reviewed by Sharon Thérèse

The premise of Mr. Hook-up, Mann’s first book in the Hooked series, is super original, and as always, her way with words draws you into the story with ease. And what a story it is! Hooked’s CEO and his two best mates are eager to see if their newly developed casual encounter app can find that perfect match; however, in the interim period, the challenge begins.

In part one, Mr. Boston connects with SaarasLove–I adored her username and bingo–against all odds, there’s a 100% match! I enjoyed their titillating online chat that led to a steamy rendezvous, yet neither he nor she revealed their real names, so when life threw them a curveball, that was enough to arouse my curiosity. But let’s do a five-and-a-half-year fast-forward, leaving our smitten hero’s perspective behind. Although I enjoyed listening to his thoughts, I couldn’t wait to discover how the story would evolve in part two.

Drake Madden landed the job of her dreams with Hooked, and although this felt a tad coincidental, I went with the flow because I was already captivated! I also liked how Mann made Drake and Easton Jones’ POV clear by titling the chapters with their names. The workplace ambience, their banter and mutual chemistry are off the charts, but what do sparks from the past have to do with the present? Mann’s made sure to provoke all the feels while you’re discovering what happens next.

The guys’ leg-pulling made me smile, and I’m looking forward to seeing whose turn it’ll be in book two. By the way, every one of them is drop-dead-charismatically gorgeous! If you’re looking for light on angst spicy escapism, this easy-to-read novel is just what you need.

Thank you to Montlake and NetGalley for an advanced readers copy in favour of an honest review.

USA Today bestselling author Marni Mann knew she was going to be a writer since middle school. While other girls her age were daydreaming about teenage pop stars, Mann was fantasizing about penning her first novel. She crafts sexy, titillating stories that weave together her love of darkness, mystery, passion, and human emotion.

A New Englander at heart, she now lives in Sarasota, Florida with her husband and their two dogs who subsequently have been characters in her books. When she’s not nose-deep in her laptop working on her next novel, she’s scouring for chocolate, sipping wine, traveling to new locations, and devouring fabulous books.

Connect with Marni:

Website | Facebook | Facebook Readers Group

Instagram – @marnimann – TikTok | Twitter – @MarniMann

Pinterest | Goodreads | BookBub | Verve Romance | Amazon

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