Here is how you can help raise money and awareness for mental health:
📗 Purchase a book from the amazing books listed below! We hope you will #1click4charity a number of these amazing books! The portion of sales is from ANY platform: digital, print, and audio.
📗If you have read one of the wonderful stories included, gift a copy to a friend who might love it!
📗 Share the image below or any custom photos the participating authors share on social media to raise awareness and show your support.
📗 In this digital age, COMMENTS are currency, so as you see these images, PLEASE Comment.
The Keith Milano Memorial Fund was established to help raise awareness about the devastating and deadly disease that is mental illness. Keith’s spirit and laughter are kept alive through our efforts to increase mental illness awareness and raise money for education and imperative research. Keith often struggled with society’s perception of mental illness. Our hope is that by having the strength to say that Keith was “Bipolar,” we can strip away the stigma and help others to be more open about their disease.
Watch to learn more about the Milano Sprung Family’s mission
AFSP is the only national not-for-profit organization exclusively dedicated to understanding and preventing suicide through research and education and to reaching out to people with mood disorders and those affected by suicide. AFSP is a fully accredited 501(c)(3) tax-exempt organization incorporated in the state of Delaware with primary offices in New York City. Federal tax ID # is 13-3393329.
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Disclosure: I received this complimentary copy from the author and/or publisher and voluntarily left an honest review. A positive review is not required. Also, I may earn a commission on some affiliate links below, whose fees support independent bookshops. I hope you consider purchasing a copy at one of the local bookstores listed below.
Coming this: May 7, 2024 Publisher: Atria/Emily Bestler Books Type: series, standalone Genre: Asian American Literature, Romantic Comedy Author: Jackie Lau Print Pages: 352 pages Read: January 26, 2024 Shelved: January 30, 2024 Rating: 4 / 5 stars ⭐⭐⭐⭐
The author of the “full of heart” (Ali Hazelwood, New York Times bestselling author) The Stand-Up Groomsman returns with a charming and clever rom-com about a young woman’s desperate attempts to fend off her meddling mother…only to find that maybe mother does know best.
Mark Chan this. Mark Chan that.
Writer and barista, Emily Hung is tired of hearing about the great Mark Chan, the son of her parents’ friends. You’d think he single-handedly stopped climate change and ended child poverty from the way her mother raves about him. But in reality, he’s just a boring, sweater-vest-wearing engineer, and when they’re forced together at Emily’s sister’s wedding, it’s obvious he thinks he’s too good for her.
But now that Emily is her family’s last single daughter, her mother is fixated on getting her married, and she has her sights on Mark. There’s only one solution, clearly: convince Mark to be in a fake relationship with her long enough to put an end to her mom’s meddling. He reluctantly agrees.
Unfortunately, lying isn’t enough. Family friends keep popping up at their supposed dates—including a bubble tea shop and cake-decorating class—so they’ll have to spend more time together to make their relationship look real. With each fake date, though, Emily realizes that Mark’s not quite what she assumed and maybe that argyle sweater isn’t so ugly after all…
Review
WHAT TO EXPECT:- Slow-burn romance Fake relationships Dating later in life Meddling parents Nosey roomies Author / Publishing problems Mother-daughter relationship development Middle-child syndrome / Dealing with Siblings Surprising family revelations in the end a cute and judgemental cat (🐈)
Pacing: The pacing is moderate to slow due to the slow-burn element and relationship denial. Nonetheless, the book was easy to relate to and understand. The storyline was engaging storyline, even if the spice (🌶) started only in the middle of the book because of FMC’s stubborn denial of the “potential relationship” in front of her.
Characters:
Parents of MC: funny at times, primarily hilarious and straightforward; love them all!
FMC: funny, very patient and thoughtful to a fault, over-analyzing things too much, insecure at first but more confident in the end MMC: down-to-earth, sweet and sensible.
I enjoyed a lot of aspects of the book like:- – The complex revelations that came out and sorted the complex relationship between mothers and daughters. – The super rational-irrational juxtaposition between MMCs. Only one character was rash and impulsive, while the other may be confused and distressed on the inside; nothing showed through on the outside, which was relieving.
The intricacies of being an author, in general, were eye-opening for me. The road to being published is complex and complicated, especially living in the cosmopolitan city of Toronto.
Annoyed as one can predict, FMC’s mum and dad are my favorite surprise.
Overall, Love, Lies and Cherry Pie was an enjoyable read. I relate to the book’s complex look at relationships from an Asian child/family’s POV. The balance between emotional connection and lifestyle stability has always been at the forefront of my life experiences. I cannot wait to see other books by the author again!
**Thank you to the publisher for graciously providing this ARC through Edelweiss for an honest review.
Meet the Author
Jackie Lau decided she wanted to be a writer when she was in grade two, sometime between writing “The Heart That Got Lost” and “The Land of Shapes.” She later studied engineering and worked as a geophysicist before turning to writing romance novels.
Jackie lives in Toronto with her husband, and despite living in Canada her whole life, she hates winter. When she’s not writing, she enjoys cooking, hiking, eating too much gelato, and reading on the balcony when it’s raining.
Disclosure: I received this complimentary copy from the author and/or publisher and voluntarily left an honest review. A positive review is not required.
Published on: 12 April 2022 Type: series, standalone Genre: Contemporary Romance Author: Lizzie Morton Book Length: 463 pages Read: 04 April 2023 Shelved: 06 April 2023 Rating: 5/ 5 stars ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
From international bestselling author Lizzie Morton, an edgy, emotional, enemies-to-lovers, stand-alone romance.
Ryan Alvarez is unreliable, unapproachable, and has an attitude as foul as his mouth. His masculine beauty is more infuriating than his blasé attitude to life. He’s everything I hate and everything I avoid. And then his past indiscretions force our paths to align. Where proximity is forced, feelings aren’t. Our chemistry is palpable, undeniable. The two of us together are perfectly imperfect. Until the sparks, we create catch light, the fire that is us burns through the foundations of everything I thought I wanted to be.
My wants. Hopes. Beliefs.
The worst kind of enemy is the one that makes you believe they’re not, and the problem with falling for them …
When they decide to strike, you have no choice but to crumble.
** Needing You Always is Book 2 in a series of interconnected standalones. It is not required to read the Always Trilogy. Each book is a complete story and contains a HEA.**
TW: alcohol, drugs, blood, past trauma, death of a loved one, abandonment issues
POV: first person, Susanne Van Rensburg
Some stories are easy to read/breeze through, sure-HEA, but this is NOT one of them. Readers can expect angst-driven proximity, slow-burning attraction, and cold-hot enemies-to-lovers/in-denial. Expect a lot of push-and-pull, misunderstandings, and hurtful words. Readers should come prepared to be emotionally invested in the characters and the slow-burning romance.
Cunningly, the author used a first-person, central POV (Susanne “Sooz” Van Rensburg), a different writing approach from the previous books in the series, which made the story more credible, expressive, intriguing, and impactful. Susanne’s journey, which has many unexpected twists and turns, takes the reader on a rollercoaster of emotions. In the end, readers can relate to the universal themes of courage, strength, and resilience that Susanne embodies.
Sooz, co-owner of Next Level PR agency, works above and beyond what is expected. She may be on top of her professional career, but her relationships (family, friends, and others) are next to none. She is cold and shut off from many meaningful relationships. Constantly on guard because of “life disappointments and hurts,” Sooz became a workaholic, focusing on goal-centered results rather than fulfilling and lasting relationships.
The fact that she endured a “rocky start” with Ryan Alvarez, drummer for S.C.A.R.A.B., made it even more believable that opposites attract. Through many heated arguments and bitter lessons, Sooz slowly realizes the importance of family. She later succumbs to the inevitable – reconnecting lost familial relationships and becoming open to the possibility of finding a previously imperceivable future for herself. Over time, Sooz learns to trust her family and finds solace in their love and support. As the story continues, Sooz begins to appreciate life and learns to really “see” Ryan instead of believing the image he projects in public.
Ryan is one confusing character. He was hot-cold for many moments in the book, giving me (and Sooz) constant whiplash. He makes many cryptic statements and expects others to understand what he means. Heck, I was in a daze about what he wanted, then did something that threw things off. I suppose the “secrets” affect his actions and how he “handles” them, but come on! Give readers like me (and Sooz) a break and do not just disappear and expect us to be okay about it, especially after some significant development in the storyline. Considering that Ryan and Sooz already have abandonment issues from their pasts, Ryan shouldn’t have done what he did. Ryan should have stated things from the beginning because instead of finding a solution to his “issue” early on, Sooz felt confused, hurt, and betrayed (it was stated that “those who matter” were in on “the secret” – ouch!). It’s not fair to drag readers along and second-guess their emotions. Ryan needs to take responsibility and explain his actions to Sooz.
In summary, Needing You Always is a deep dive into complex emotions, new perspectives, and nuances about family politics/misunderstandings, commitment/disconnection, self-depreciation, abandonment, and misconceptions – public vs. private image. This book brought me distress and anxiety! It kept me on edge from start to finish. I was shattered by “Ryan’s issues,” and even if I might disagree with how the characters handled the “issue,” I respected their reasons…and it did end up with a HEA that is “on the upside.” Many new insights opened my eyes to possible positive outcomes with mutual respect and taking risks within a “safe space.” I realized now that the path to redemption and healing is not as straightforward or “clear-cut” as expected. Sometimes there are no easy answers. It’s a process that takes time, patience, and understanding. It’s a journey of self-discovery and growth. I highly recommend this book to anyone seeking a thought-provoking and engaging read.
About the Author
Lizzie Morton is an author of Contemporary Romance and Romantic Suspense.
Her first novel, Always You, was written in her spare time while looking after her first child. Since then Lizzie has become a full-time author, and her first novel has become an international bestseller as part of The Always Trilogy.
Lizzie Morton’s ongoing future projects will include The Always Series, a series spin-off from the trilogy with interconnecting standalones.
When Lizzie isn’t writing, she enjoys reading, binging on Batman, and dancing to Spotify in her kitchen with her three children and Daddy Morton.
Disclosure: I may earn a commission on some affiliate links below, whose fees support independent bookshops. Hope you will consider getting it at a local bookstore.
Published on: 19 April 2022 Published by: Forever Type: standalone, series Genre: Small Town & Rural Fiction, Humorous Fiction, Women’s Domestic Life Fiction Tropes: second chances, age gap, country-city couple, socio-economic disparity, opposites attract Author: Abby Jimenez Book Length: 400 pages Read: 29 April 2022 Shelved: 30 April 2022 Rating: 4.5/ 5 stars ⭐⭐⭐⭐1/2
After a wild bet, a gourmet grilled cheese sandwich, and a cuddle with a baby goat, Alexis Montgomery has had her world turned upside down. The cause: Daniel Grant, a ridiculously hot carpenter who’s ten years younger than her and as casual as they come—the complete opposite of sophisticated city-girl Alexis. And yet their chemistry is undeniable.
While her ultra-wealthy parents want her to carry on the family legacy of world-renowned surgeons, Alexis doesn’t need glory or fame. She’s fine with being a “mere” ER doctor. And every minute she spends with Daniel and the tight-knit town where he lives, she’s discovering just what’s really important. Yet letting their relationship become anything more than a short-term fling would mean turning her back on her family and giving up the opportunity to help thousands of people.
Bringing Daniel into her world is impossible, and yet she can’t just give up the joy she’s found with him either. With so many differences between them, how can Alexis possibly choose between her world and his?
Trigger Warning (as per author via Goodreads): ” As you know, while romcoms, my books also deal with serious real-life issues. Please see below for a list of content warnings. The following trigger warnings for Part of Your World may contain spoilers! CW: Emotional abuse by side character, on page gaslighting by a side character, and on-page physical abuse of a secondary character. The main character is an ER doctor, and there are brief mentions of fatal accidents of minors, though we don’t see these on the page. ”
Review
Characters:-
Alexis “Alex” Montgomery is a successful ER doctor. He has a colossal “legacy shoe” to fill, outside of the not being successful in the love department, BUT good that she left a bad relationship.
Daniel Grant is the sweet, kind, and young de facto mayor of Wakan, a small town, who chooses duty to his family business and has not met anyone meaningful yet.
What to expect:-
Age gap romance with lots of swoons! Ironically, I felt like the reverse – no age gap going on since Alexis needs to “grow up” to the real world. At the same time, Daniel teaches Alexis about life and how the “real world” operates with love, respect, and empathy.
Heavy, controversial topics balance with comedy. I love the author’s stance on handling abuse – domestic and otherwise. I like how the process of handling “victims” of abuse was written and described in detail to better educate readers (later maybe witnesses) on how to handle these sensitive situations. Alongside this heavy subject, the author adds lighthearted comedic moments to reel readers out of the possible depressing reality of the MC. This style is the author’s forte that I thoroughly enjoy. From having the most opposite and random strangers meet at the side of a snowy road with one of them in a compromising position, goat in PJs, to the hilarious pet names (i.e., Kevin Bacon, Mother Clucker, and Chick-a-las Cage) are a few examples sprinkled throughout the book. I COULD NOT stop laughing in these cases! It was impossible not to feel the rom-com with all this!
Fated/mystical elements to amaze. Dragonflies play a considerable part in the story. They pop up in various scenes but with hidden meanings to let readers know a scene is “one crucial, epiphany moment. I like the “invisible hand” leading and molding the story, i.e., when lightning came out of nowhere and hit an oak tree and blocked Daniel’s driveway, hindering Alex from leaving.
My only frustrations:
Alex – for “being a baby” about relationships when the perfect man is right in front of her! Her toxic past has scarred her, but I wished she was mature and “grown-up enough” to stand up for herself and her man at times. She keeps seeing the impossibility of everything, even when a lot of this “negativity” is all in her head. Being the older one, Alex seems to set in seeing one way of “making a relationship work” that she doesn’t realize that a relationship’s success is all about the love, work, and respect between partners – people in the relationship, not the outside world.
Although Daniel, the sweet and lovely male protagonist, can do no wrong, except being too forgiving and too eager at times. He looked like a pushover in too many scenes and may look like the “forlorn lover.” BUT I get it; someone has to be patient enough to wait and have Alex realize that all of Daniel’s actions and motives are true, sincere, and genuine in his unique skillset.
———————-
In summary, Part of Your World is a deeply satisfying novel full of wisdom, courage, humor, heart, and second chances. It is a story about friendship, community, and the discovery of abilities that can rise from the ashes of the old world to create something hopeful and new. It shines a spotlight on the new and fragile relationship phase when the fabric has started to fray and deftly observes how couples cope, grow, and eventually thrive together or apart. I look forward to reading the next part of the series.
About the Author
Abby Jimenez is a Food Network winner and USA Today best-selling author with her hit debut novel, The Friend Zone. She founded Nadia Cakes out of her home kitchen back in 2007. The bakery has since gone on to win numerous Food Network competitions and has amassed an international cult following. Abby’s wry literary wit was spotlighted as the admin behind the hilarious viral comments on the now-famous Nadia Cakes Vageode ® cake.
Abby loves a good romance, coffee, doglets, and not leaving the house.
Here is how you can help raise money and awareness for mental health:
📗 Purchase a book from the amazing books listed below! We hope you will #1click4charity a number of these fantastic books! The portion of sales is from ANY platform: digital, print, and audio.
📗If you have read one of the wonderful stories included, gift a copy to a friend who might love it!
📗 Share the image below or any of the custom photos the participating authors share on social media to raise awareness and to show your support.
📗 In this digital age, COMMENTS are currency, so as you see these images, PLEASE Comment.
The Keith Milano Memorial Fund was established to help raise awareness about the devastating and deadly disease that is mental illness. Keith’s spirit and laughter are kept alive through our efforts to increase awareness about mental illness and raise money for education and imperative research. Keith often struggled with society’s perception of mental illness. We hope that by having the strength to say that Keith was “Bipolar,” we can strip away the stigma and help others be more open about their disease.
Watch to learn more about the Milano Sprung Family’s mission
AFSP is the only national not-for-profit organization exclusively dedicated to understanding and preventing suicide through research and education and reaching out to people with mood disorders and those affected by suicide. AFSP is a fully accredited 501(c)(3) tax-exempt organization incorporated in the state of Delaware with primary offices in New York City. Federal tax ID # is 13-3393329.
Disclosure: I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author and/or publisher. All views expressed are only my honest opinion. A positive review is not required.
Published on: 21 April 2022 Type: standalone, series Genre: Contemporary Romance, Rock Star Romance Tropes: single parent, surprise pregnancy, insta-love / love-at-first-sight, savior or protector Author: Nikki Ash Book Length: 385 pages (paperback) Read: 09 April 2022 Shelved: 10 April 2022 Rating: 3.5 / 5 stars ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Retailers: Amazon US: Kindle | Paperback Amazon UK | CA | AU Available also on Kindle Unlimited!
What do you get when a single mom saves a musician from a killer bee?
Sophia When I was eighteen, I fell in love, but he didn’t love me back. The day he found out about my pregnancy, I found out about his fiancée. He warned if I ever told anyone, he would destroy me. So I kept the pregnancy a secret and disappeared. Being scorned has left me jaded, but it’s also made me stronger. All my love and attention are focused on raising my daughter. There isn’t room in our lives, or in my heart, for anyone else… until a chance encounter with Easton Blackwood changes everything.
Easton Music has always been my one true love, but when a stunningly beautiful woman saves me from a killer bee, it just might be love at first sight. One minute she’s slapping me with her flip-flop, and the next, we’re naked in my bed. With every kiss, every touch, I have no doubt Sophia could be the one until she dashes from my bed without a trace. After weeks of our time together replaying in my mind, she appears back in my life with a confession that sends my world into a tailspin. She thinks the bomb she’s dropped will send me running, but she’s wrong. The last guy might have done that, but I’ll fight for her, our love, and our family. And I’ll stop at nothing to protect what’s mine.
Review
Trigger Warning: abortion (mentioned), and the threat of violence and harm by an abuser
POV: dual multi-POV of Sophia and Easton
Main Characters (MCs): Sophia Davies | Easton Blackwater Sophia: strong, determined, closed-off (after traumatic experience), hard-headed, funny, intelligent, resourceful Easton: loyal even after betrayal, funny, kind, honest, considerate, allergic to bee stings (!)
Character vs. Plot Driven A Chance Encounter has strong characters deciding the story’s direction. Sophia and Easton’s varying life experiences, layered personalities, and mature outlooks move the story and focus on internal growth as a couple organically and naturally. The plot moves along as Sophia and Easton grow into a possible relationship through connections-building moments, giving readers time to empathize with either character as one moves on chapter to chapter.
Flawed MCs with different outlooks Both MC’s lives are 180-degrees from each other. Sophia came from a lower-middle-class family and had a rough life – with an unsupportive mother and an MIA father. She had to grow up a lot faster and earn her way through life with certain unforeseen circumstances and being with someone she initially thought was “the one.” Easton has the proper emotional and mental support from both their father (Sean), mother (Alice) and sister (Nicole). Betrayed by someone he loved, he got a huge “reality check.” He wants relationships to be honest and trustworthy. Because of these varied life experiences, the reactions to trust and “disclosures” are different. Sophia’s past “honesty” got her into trouble that she fought “tooth-and-nail” to survive as a single parent to her daughter and had to move across the country for their safety. For Easton, betrayal came in the form of a broken engagement that later will shape how he wants his future relationship will be. He was more open to relationships but now requires total honesty from his “would-be partner.” When Easton learned that there were secrets between them, one would think that he would start pressuring Sophia to disclose all of them. BUT Easton did not! He instead took on a more positive approach to the relationship: with love, patience, empathy, and unyielding support. He does come into some epic, alpha moments, especially nearing the end, wherein he had to stand up to Sophia’s past!
Amazing supporting cast! A good book needs terrific support to ensure any MC will succeed and shine in the story. This book has got of them. A few notable ones from Easton’s side are his mother, Alice, and his sister, Nicole, while from Sophia’s is her daughter, Kendall, and BFF/cousin, Naomi. I know that Easton’s side was skeptical of Sophia, but I am happy that they immediately realized Sophia was no “gold-digger” and is a great gal! The supporting characters ensured Easton and Sophia had “space” to learn about each other and grow their relationship.
Overall, A Chance Encounter‘s theme is simple and easy to read. I appreciate the flawed characters who grow instead of hindering their progress due to internal doubt and trauma. Both Sophia and Easton complemented each other as individuals and partners in the end. I love the message of healing, soulmates/love-at-first-sight, and the “protector” factors in the story. The angst level is enough to be a page-turner but not deep enough for me, which may be why I feel that something was still missing. I wanted something more complex than it should be. The external conflicts like the past threats haunting the MCs were great starting points to something bigger but not explored or visited by the author. Nonetheless, I still recommend this book to second-chance, single-parent tropes as it teaches hope, redemption, and perseverance.
About the Author
Nikki Ash resides in South Florida, where she is an English teacher and mom by day and a writer by night. When she’s not writing, you can find her with a book in her hand. From the Boxcar Children to Wuthering Heights to the latest Single Parent Romance, she has lived and breathed every type of book.
Reading is like breathing in; writing is like breathing out. – Pam Allyn
While reading and writing are her passions, her two children are her entire world. You can probably find them at a Disney park before you would find them at home on the weekends!
Disclosure: I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author and/or publisher. All views expressed are only my honest opinion. A positive review is not required.
Published on: 01 March 2022 Type: series, standalone Genre: Billionaire Romance, Contemporary Romance Author: Marni Mann Read: 15 February 2022 Shelved: 18 February 2022 Rating: 3.5 / 5 stars ⭐⭐⭐⭐
A sexy, forbidden, billionaire, stand-alone romance from USA Today best-selling author Marni Mann …
I’ve always been a good girl. But the second I walk into the hotel bar, I see temptation.
The man sitting there is delicious. Older. Experienced. Once our eyes meet, I know I’m not walking away unscathed. I’ve heard about men like Jenner Dalton—richer than God and hotter than sin. He’s got heartbreak written all over him.
But it only takes fifteen minutes before we’re headed up to his room.
I’ve never done anything like this before, but something tells me he’s worth it. Every swipe of his tongue feels electric, every kiss sets me on fire, and his experience has me begging for more.
And more. And more.
In one week, I’ll return to college in Miami. He’ll go back to being LA’s most eligible billionaire. The miles and years between us are just too many for this to mean anything. So, between now and then, I plan to spend every moment being anything but good …
There are three stand-alone books in the Dalton Brothers Series: The Lawyer — Dominick’s Book (available now) The Billionaire — Jenner’s Book (available now) The Single Dad — Ford’s Book (coming soon)
Review
Jenner Dalton. A man with a “reputation” as a playboy/ lawyer specializing in real estate development.
Joanna Spade. Recently graduated. A sports fan and an intelligent marketer. New opportunities are ahead. Hides a secret from Jenner that explodes in the book.
This book series continues with another of the Dalton brothers, Jenner, who bumps into “the one” in Vegas and no less than at a sports bar!
The writing is concise with a good, faster pace. (Note: this is not a slow-burn book series). The POV is from both main characters, making it easy to relate. I love the unconventional meeting they shared and an insta-love theme going on. I enjoy seeing the author’s primary specialty of writing detailed, steamy, and sizzling intimate scenes. This book delivers in high flying colors!
Jenner and Joan are two characters that complement each other. If the book did not mention their age gap, I would have pegged them to be the same age with their maturity and patience. It is refreshing to see the balance of power in these two as they help and support each other, given their very short and impulsive courtship.
Diving into their personalities and characteristics and without giving too much away, there is the usual issue of commitment phobia, age, and insecurities in self-worth—all things I enjoyed reading as both navigate through some awkward and challenging situations. There are no third parties, and they are their own worst enemies with self-deprecating thoughts (though shown by one character in particular).
Don’t let the easy-going flow of the book’s first half mislead you into a false sense of security that this will all be “rainbows and roses” – not going to happen! By the time I reached the book’s second half, things had taken an unexpected turn, with discoveries and revelations threatening the possible couple apart. Having read so many romance books by now, I don’t know why I still couldn’t predict or am shocked to see the “plot twist,” which was unexpected and threw the couple in a hot mess of emotional denial and precarious circumstances.
Overall, The Billionaire is two mature adults, although of different ages and stages in life, who seem to have found a rare and powerful connection towards each other. There is the instant attraction, but there is also an “old soulmates” connection that is undeniable and beyond the steamy bedroom scenes. It seems to prove that true love knows no boundaries and spans through time.
I cannot deny NOT loving steamy stuff! It was engaging and enticing! Based on the author’s capabilities to “WOW” me in the past, I am sad that my reaction to The Billionaire is only a decent one – something to get through the series. I preferred Book 1, The Lawyer, more, though that is is just my take and preference. Nonetheless, I will continue to the next book since my interest has surely piqued Ford’s story, which this book gives a sneak peek at his life.
Marni Mann, USA Today Bestselling author, knew she was going to be a writer since middle school. While other girls her age were daydreaming about teenage pop stars, Marni was fantasizing about penning her first novel. She crafts sexy, titillating stories that weave together her love of darkness, mystery, passion, and human emotions. A New Englander at heart, she now lives in Sarasota, Florida, with her husband and their two dogs, who 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, or devouring fabulous books.
Disclosure: I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author and/or publisher. All views expressed are only my honest opinion. A positive review is not required.
Published on: 24 February 2022 Type: standalone, series Genre: Contemporary Romance, Romantic Comedy Author: Staci Hart Read: 19 February 2022 Shelved: 21 February 2022 Rating: 4.5 / 5 stars ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
The brooding construction manager is a man of myth and legend, rarely seen in the wild. Once upon a time, he was the star quarterback, the smiling homecoming king, royalty in our small town. Until tragedy struck. And then he disappeared completely.
Now he’s resurfaced, and I can’t keep my eyes off him.
He’s an island surrounded by lava, bound by a desert, and guarded by dragons. I don’t stand a sunshine’s chance in a hail storm.
Our siblings disagree and are out to prove it, nudging us into each other in the hopes we’ll fall. But with our town in tumult and the two of us firmly in the middle, nothing between us is easy. And when he’s faced with an impossible decision, I learn the truth of what I already knew.
No one can have Keaton Meyer.
And I have the broken heart to prove it.
Review
POV: first-person, both main characters – Daisy and Keaton
Characters:
Daisy Mae Blum: the “good girl” and eldest of the Blum sisters; resigned to being alone due to the Blum Women’s curse and endured much loss at a young age.
Keaton Meyer: widower, owns a construction business with his brothers. The brooding and very protective man with a heart of gold.
Writing and Plot: The writing is clear, concise, and comedic at the right moments. The story is still set in Lindenbach and continues where For the Love of Honey left off. When readers left Book 1, the town was divided by the “Us” versus “Them” group, with the former wanting to do some revitalizing and radical changes to the town wherein the latter was resisting. Not only is there a conflict within the town, but Daisy and Keaton suffered from self-defeatist conflicts – refusing possible HEA since both of them suffered huge losses that cost their hearts. Good thing Daisy and Keaton got over their “awkwardness” and denial to create a sweet story. It was a lot of “feel-good moments” as Daisy made it easy for Keaton to start giving him a chance on love. But their path was not smooth, and something huge happened near the end that tore them apart.
LIKES:
Community and Empathy The topic of “community” and “empathy” is the main drivers of the story, aside from the romantic elements. I am impressed with Lindenbach’s community from the start of Friends With Benedicts but how the whole town rounded up and acted as a unit to support the “crazy things” in the book is fantastic! I think of the Filipino word “bayanihan” to describe this sense of cooperation and communal unity. This quote says it all:- “But in the end, it’s not about how we feel so much as it is what we do about it.”
Multi-layered characters Daisy and Keaton were balancing family duty while curbing their wants of being in a relationship.
I think my most favorite Blum sister would have to be Daisy with her ease, poise, and contemplative personae. She is kind, wise, and a great listener. It’s not to say that the other sisters aren’t, but when she is with Keaton, she exposes him and makes readers see the real Keaton – under all the brooding and complicated facade that he shows the world.
Finding comfort with friends I am happy to see the ease between Daisy and Keaton. Both suffered a loss out of their control, so they understood each other better than anyone. Their shared pain and experience enabled them to bond at a level that did not come out forced, and they knew when to push and back up at appropriate moments. This fragile relationship is their second chance of bringing them back to the living. It melted my heart seeing it unfold as it did.
Meddling (yet good intention) family members
I liked how Daisy and Keaton’s siblings and family members plotted and pushed the two of them together. They see both worthy of each other even before Daisy and Keaton realize it. It was endearing and hilarious at the same time to have siblings who support and plot for both of them to be together. It wasn’t an instant scheme since it built up with many scenes in the book – concise and calculative that I enjoyed, like the subtle hints, light banter, and later – the outspoken “reality checks,” and heartfelt confessions helped with a “hitch” in Daisy and Keaton’s budding relationship.
Returning past characters A few characters from the Small Town series, like Friends with Benedicts, will lend a hand to the Meyers and Blums family in the author’s authentic cameo style. Readers will get to see Presley Hale and Sebastian Vargas, who helps the new couple solve a few “problems.”
Overall, On the Honey Side is a sweet, slow-burn, angsty yet rewarding read. It has most, if not all, the elements of a long-lasting relationship with slow-burn intensity, magnetic connection, complementary strengths of the main characters. The pace is perfect for the characters’ personalities, making the story more believable and genuine.
Tropes: brooding-sunshine chemistry, friends-to-lovers, Band of Brothers (Siblings), romantic comedy, second chances, slow-burn intense chemistry
About the Author
Staci Hart has been a lot of things up to this point in her life: a graphic designer, an entrepreneur, a seamstress, a clothing and handbag designer, a waitress. Can’t forget that. She’s also been a mom to three little girls who are sure to grow up to break a number of hearts. She’s been a wife, even though she’s certainly not the cleanest, nor is she the best cook. She’s also super, duper fun at a party–especially if she’s been drinking whiskey–and her favorite word starts with f and ends with k.
From roots in Houston to a seven-year stint in Southern California, Staci and her family ended up settling somewhere in between and equally north in Denver, where snow is magic and the mountains have become home. When she’s not writing, she’s reading, gaming, or designing graphics.
Disclosure: I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author and/or publisher. All views expressed are only my honest opinion. A positive review is not required. Also, if you follow the Bookshop.org links, I may earn a commission from them, whose fees support independent bookshops.
Published on: 26 January 2021 Published by: Entangled Publishing, LLC Type: trilogy, series, inter-connected Genre: Billionaire Romance, Dark Romance, New Adult & College Romance Author: Helen Hardt Book Length: 400 pages Read: 11 January 2022 Shelved: 13 January 2022 Rating: 3 / 5 stars ⭐⭐⭐
She gave him control in the bedroom. But is she losing control of her identity?
Dating Boston’s billionaire bachelor has opened up a new world for Skye Manning. Opportunities are suddenly everywhere, her new career is flourishing, and she experiences luxury she’s only seen in the pages of magazines. So why does she feel like she’s losing herself?
Braden Black never meant to fall for Skye, and he still tries to resist a relationship he knows he’s not wired for. But not only has Skye awoken something inside him—he’s stirring something dark and forbidden inside his Cinderella. Something even he can’t control…
Start this amazing series off with Darkly, Follow Me Darkly told from the hero’s point of view, or spice up your reading with Braden’s story any time while enjoying the Follow Me series.
Review
Follow Me Under is part two of the Follow Me trilogy and starts exactly where Book 1 left off. It continues from Skye Manning’s experiences on managing to new business venture (influencer), being a famous billionaire’s girlfriend, and discovering herself.
The writing is easy to relate to and follow. This book is very character-driven, with Skye “driving the show.” The first-person POV used by the author heightens the emotional turmoil running through Skye’s head and heart. The plot balances well with each new “introduction” Braden’s showing Skye.
In the first part of the book, I wouldn’t say I liked how Skye turned out in this book – it felt a total 180 to what she was trying to achieve when Book 1 ended. She spiraled into something extreme – a bit “out-of-character” that I felt envisioned her from Book 1. Skye seemed to be “trying too hard” to mold herself into something she isn’t – to fit an unrealistic mold. I understand the author’s position and that this is the second book in the series – a “big twist” is needed to hook readers on, BUT I was saddened (and frustrated) with Skye. I don’t appreciate how Skye regressed into a needy and insecure girlfriend.
On the other hand, Braden can do no wrong for me, and this book proves it. Yes, he has his flaws and secrets, but I believe Braden’s the rational one in the relationship. I liked him from Book 1 and more so in this book. He’s growing forward here – changing and opening his mind to a “relationship,” which enamored me.
The intimate BDSM scenes in this book will let one’s imagination run wild! I appreciate the author’s descriptions and details of the various tasteful, respectful BDSM scenes – all well and extensive in research. However, I was still bothered with what was happening to Skye that I might have missed out on thoroughly enjoying the scenes.
Overall, I wasn’t too happy with a few things in this book. I appreciate the author giving conflict to the already tumultuous relationship of Skye and Braden. Still, I wish she made Skye a bit stronger than spiral to a secret that wrecks her self-identity. I like how Braden is the reverse of what I expected. His alpha-dominant yet rational, relaxed, calm behavior is a welcome surprise. He is one of the most patient dominant alpha characters I have ever read. He seems to accept Skye’s persistent and challenging personality in having her in his life, compared to the rest of his past partners. I like the honesty that both main characters try to be for each other, to the best of what they can do at that time. Given this, I cannot leave myself not to know what happens to Skye and how everything develops between her and Braden so that I will continue to Book 3. I am hoping for deeper character exploration in that one.
Oh? What are your hard limits? I only have one. What is it? I dont’ talk about it. Don’t you think I should know? So I don’t bring it up? Trust me, Skye. You will never bring it up.
~ Follow Me Under, Helen Hardt
Published on: 27 July 2021 Published by: Entangled Publishing, LLC Type: trilogy, series, inter-connected Genre: Billionaire Romance, Dark Romance, New Adult & College Romance Author: Helen Hardt Book Length: 400 pages Read: 13 January 2022 Shelved: 14 January 2022 Rating: 5 / 5 stars ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
He unleashed the darkness in her…but it might cost them both.
Billionaire Braden Black has one hard limit in the bedroom. He doesn’t talk about it, and he doesn’t engage in it. But when his lover, Skye Manning, begs him for it, he has to face facts—while he may be able to buy her anything, he can’t give her this. Though he loves her desperately, he’s starting to worry their relationship can’t continue.
Skye Manning has fallen down the rabbit hole and become captive to her needs. When Braden asks her why she desires something so dark, and she finds she can’t respond, she knows she’ll have to come up with those answers on her own. She’s willing, but she wants something in return—Braden’s complete honesty about his past.
Because Skye is convinced her needs, his limits…everything is tied to this one secret.
Review
Follow Me Always is more psychological and mental versus deviances and intimacy in Book 2. There is a lot of “soul searching” and overcoming internal issues discussed. After all these years, some ugly secrets come out, and some hit closer to home than Skye realized.
I like how the author provided details about mental health struggles, the stigma of therapy (to some), and the healing for Skye and Braden. It made my heart sing with joy about how Skye was really growing – moving forward through unrealized and repressed memories. Many background and flashbacks will dive deep into the whys and hows for Skye and Braden.
It involves other outside characters that either help or hinder, which makes the plot and scenes exciting and provocative at the same time. The suspense and mystery provide an excellent reprieve from the heavy emotional flashbacks between Skye and Braden. Ironically, under all the “cool and calm” demeanor of Braden hides the emotional scar that will rock readers’ minds! This “breakdown” and “life-threatening” episode forced Skye to fight for them as a couple. The theme of love and family rings true here.
Follow Me Always is even better than Book 1! I liked the “work-in-progress” parts and the suspense in the end. Without giving away too much, I was surprised at the plot twist with a satisfactory resolution at the end. I liked how the secondary characters indirectly play significant roles
“Thanks for being there with me last night.” “Skye, where else on earch would I be other than with the woman I love?”
~ Follow Me Always, Helen Hardt
Overall, the Follow Me series is a unique, thought-provoking, fascinating read about human behavior, life-changing circumstances, and redemption. It is nothing like the dark romantic drama books I have encountered, though some pieces serve as an ode to previous erotic books. Comparing Skye and Braden to other dark romance novels would not be fair. The only common theme is dark and romantic, but the rest is new, refreshing, and genuine. The series is dark, raw, and poignant, especially in Book 3, wherein readers see the path that Skye and Braden had to walk through. They match how each one reacted to the other, especially in the last book. Some may say that the “healing” bit is a bit too fast but note that Skye sought the proper professional help that worked for her.
Highly recommend this series to readers who love dark romance, BDSM, angst, and troubled characters with suspense peppered randomly.
Start this amazing series off with Darkly, Follow Me Darkly told from the hero’s point of view, or spice up your reading with Braden’s story any time while enjoying the Follow Me series.
You can also find out Braden’s POV (Book #1 in the hero’s POV) with Darkly. It can be read and enjoyed in any order!
Synopsis:
Read Darkly after Follow Me Under.
Self-made billionaire Braden Black is used to getting what he wants when he wants it. So when aspiring photographer Skye Manning doesn’t immediately fall into his bed, Braden finds himself craving her even more. And when she finally does submit to him, no one is more surprised than Braden that the thrill of the chase didn’t satisfy his appetite—to the contrary, it only fueled it. Behind Skye’s dedication and focus, he sees a natural submissive, and he’s determined to bring her out.
Skye Manning takes charge of her life. Everything she does brings her one step closer to her goal of becoming an internationally known photographer. Until Braden Black. He challenges her, shows her more pleasure than she ever imagined between the sheets, but he asks something in return—something she can never give up. Her control.
But Braden Black never backs down from a challenge.
About the Author
#1 New York Times, #1 USA Today, and #1 Wall Street Journal bestselling author Helen Hardt’s passion for the written word began with the books her mother read to her at bedtime. She wrote her first story at age six and hasn’t stopped since. In addition to being an award-winning author of romantic fiction, she’s a mother, an attorney, a black belt in Taekwondo, a grammar geek, an appreciator of fine red wine, and a lover of Ben and Jerry’s ice cream. She writes from her home in Colorado, where she lives with her family. Helen loves to hear from readers.
Disclosure: I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author and/or publisher. All views expressed are only my honest opinion. A positive review is not required. Also, if you follow the Bookshop.org links, I may earn a commission from them, whose fees support independent bookshops.
Published on: 28 September 2021 Published by: Entangled Publishing, LLC Type: trilogy, series, inter-connected Genre: Billionaire Romance, Dark Romance, New Adult & College Romance Author: Helen Hardt Book Length: 400 pages Read: 02 January 2022 Shelved: 10 January 2022 Rating: 5 / 5 stars ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
I’ve always been a control freak. But he makes me crave submission…
Working for a hotel heiress and social media influencer may not be my dream job, but at least it allows me time to do what I really love—take photographs. Pretty good for a wholesome farm girl from Kansas trying to make it in Boston. Life may not be easy working for a diva, but at least I know what to expect.
Until blue-collar billionaire, Braden Black strides into the office. He’s beyond handsome and sexy but also domineering with a definite hard edge. I’m not sure why he’s interested in me, but within a few weeks, he’s showing me a world I never knew existed.
He’s opened up a side of me I can only face in the dark, and it’s quickly becoming an obsession. How can I give up something this addictive—even if his secrets could ultimately destroy me?
I am very fortunate to have received this book series, just in time, when I was starting to miss dark romance! I remember this book when it was first released but was in my YA fantasy momentum, so I am happy to have the chance now to get back to the start of my dark romance reads again after so long.
Move over, Christian Grey. Down to #2 for you, Gideon Cross. Braden Black is the new dark character that has me swooning!
Follow Me Darkly may mimic its predecessors’ dark characteristics, but all they have in common is dark and mysterious. This book goes out of the ordinary – tangent to a point for past characters. There is more honesty, directness, and rawness when Braden gives Sky a peek into his mind. I am also thankful for Sky’s more rational and direct approach to everything in the book. I like how well the author wrote and orchestrated everything – making it current to the times. Given her background and upbringing, Skye’s simplicity and often naivety with a billionaire like Braden is refreshing, charming, and genuine.
Skye and Braden are interesting characters, both individually and as a couple. Both are unique on their own, but sparks fly, and the attraction is magnetic when they are together! Skye’s outgoing personality is infectious and positive, and I couldn’t help but not like her. Braden’s confident, domineering yet secretive (dark in the bedroom) personality is what will captivate readers. He is different from other dominant alpha’s I have encountered, and that’s a good thing. I love how serious Braden is on one end, then counters with a quirky remark to counter the tension. It throws me off since it makes a serious moment less scary and more approachable! Braden is definitely in a category of his own in this book.
Now, for the best part – the steamy scenes are HOT HOT HOT! There were unexpected moments that will definitely “wet” one’s appetite and imagination. This book will “inspire” readers to have “sexy time” with their significant one immediately after each “sexy” chapter!
Overall, Follow Me Darkly is gorgeously sexy and sophisticated! It is a more mature yet sometimes frustrating take on an insta-attraction between two strong-minded protagonists – in and out of the bedroom! It is impossible NOT to love, and I am pleasantly surprised at how much I am obsessed with Braden and Skye! It is an easy read and impossible NOT to speed through and finish the book. It will capture one’s attention from start to finish! The ending is good enough to pique readers to push on to Book 2, which I am devouring after this review.
Keywords popping out of my head as I read Follow Me Darkly: dark, hot, steamy, spicy, intense, romantic, mysterious, naive, a balance between light and dark, inexperienced
#1 New York Times, #1 USA Today, and #1 Wall Street Journal bestselling author Helen Hardt’s passion for the written word began with the books her mother read to her at bedtime. She wrote her first story at age six and hasn’t stopped since. In addition to being an award-winning author of romantic fiction, she’s a mother, an attorney, a black belt in Taekwondo, a grammar geek, an appreciator of fine red wine, and a lover of Ben and Jerry’s ice cream. She writes from her home in Colorado, where she lives with her family. Helen loves to hear from readers.
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