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Rekindling the Flame by Madison Myers: An emotional and heartwarming read!

ARC, Reviews /

Thoughts on this book: Trigger Warning: This book contains themes of terminal illness, particularly focusing on the female main character’s mother, who is battling cancer. End-of-life planning and the emotional struggles that come with such a scenario are discussed frequently and form a significant part of the plot. It’s rare for a book to grab hold of you, tug at your heart, and leave you with a book hangover that’s hard to shake. Rekindling the Flame did all of that for me! Days after finishing it, I’m still thinking about the characters, the emotions, and the story. This novel masterfully combines the thrill of second-chance romance with the deep bonds of family and friendship, making for an emotional roller coaster of a read. Aurora—Rory to her friends—has to face the unthinkable: returning home. After learning her mother has only a year left to live, Rory swallows her pride and makes the difficult decision to move back to the small town she was determined to leave behind. Her goal is simple but monumental: to mend fences with her mother, make lasting memories, and be there for the precious time she has left. Rory is no simple heroine; she’s a high-maintenance lawyer weighed down with a ton of emotional baggage. Watching her unpack that baggage throughout the story is both heartbreaking and beautiful. Her personal transformation is truly the highlight of the book. Then there’s Wyatt—her first love, and the definition of swoon-worthy! Even days later, I still have hearts in my eyes just thinking about him. Wyatt is the classic small-town hero—strong, dependable, and, even after all these years, still deeply in love with Aurora. His quiet longing for her, despite the pain of their past, really tugged at my heartstrings. As the story unfolded, Wyatt quickly became one of my favorite book boyfriends. His open-heartedness and the way he gradually rebuilds trust with Aurora is nothing short of admirable. Seriously, his actions alone made me wish I had a first love waiting for me back home! When Aurora first returns, things between her and Wyatt are awkward, strained, and full of unresolved tension. It’s a painful but necessary part of the story, as they start off at a surface level, slowly chipping away at the emotional walls they’ve both built over the years. But as they dig through their past, they rediscover not just each other but also a deeper connection. Forgiveness becomes the cornerstone of their relationship, allowing them to move forward. And let me tell you, the chemistry between these two is off the charts! There are some seriously steamy moments that made me understand why Aurora couldn’t resist rekindling the flame. If I had a first love with that kind of spark, I’d be running back home too! Aurora’s journey is incredibly relatable for anyone who’s left a small town behind, swearing they’d never return (guilty!). Her initial distaste for small-town life is something I think many of us can identify with. But as the story progresses, her view of her hometown slowly shifts, and she begins to appreciate the slower pace and close-knit community. The way Smokey Heights is described, from its local hangouts to the familiar faces, reminded me of my own hometown and made the book that much more enjoyable. Even if you’ve never lived in a small town, I think anyone who’s experienced the bittersweet pull of returning home can relate to Aurora’s struggles. Wyatt and Aurora’s relationship isn’t the only emotional anchor in the book. The depiction of her relationship with her mother as they face the painful reality of terminal illness is beautifully handled. The themes of forgiveness and healing extend beyond romantic love and into the family dynamics, adding another layer of depth to the story. Watching Rory attempt to repair the broken pieces of her relationship with her mother while dealing with the looming finality of her illness added emotional weight that made this story more than just a simple romance. At its heart, Rekindling the Flame is about second chances—whether in love, family, or life itself. It’s a story that reminds us that sometimes going back is the only way to move forward. And while the romance is sweet and the small-town vibes are spot-on, it’s the emotional depth of this story that will stay with you long after you’ve turned the last page. In conclusion, this book is a must-read for anyone who loves heartfelt romances with a touch of real-life challenges. If you’re looking for a book that will make you laugh, cry, and swoon all at once, add Rekindling the Flame to your TBR list. Trust me, you’ll be captivated by the charm of Smokey Heights and fall head over heels for Aurora and Wyatt’s love story.

Rekindling the Flame by Madison Myers: An emotional and heartwarming read! Read More »

Snapshot Sunday | October 13, 2024

Lists & Wraps, Snapshots /

Snapshot Sunday is a quick weekly recap where I share what I’m currently reading, recent ARC reviews, and upcoming posts on the blog! It’s a little peek into my reading world and what’s on the horizon. Grab a coffee, relax, and check out the latest updates. Currently Reading The Ex Hex by Erin Sterling Hands-down one of my favorite fall reads! The newest and final Penhallow book was just released and is my TBR pile, perfect timing to start from the beginning and dive right back into Graves Glenn. TBR Pile The Kiss Curse by Erin Sterling The Wedding Witch by Erin Sterling Lemon Cake by Tanja Longoria (ARC) ARCs Completed Sins of the Wasteland: Fates Flames by J.L. Hart | Full Review Here Rekindling the Flame by Madison Myers | Full Review Here Blog Teasers What is Wildcard Wednesday? Well, it’s a flexible content day that could include fun lists, book recommendations, author interviews, or even lifestyle articles. Truly it’s a free day for me to express my creativity and write what I’m feeling in the moment. Series Saturday is a feature, sometimes weekly, that highlights ongoing or completed book series. It’s the perfect way for me to share more insight into a series and why readers should dive in. Whether it’s a beloved classic series or a brand-new trilogy, Series Saturday gives readers a snapshot of multiple books that are connected, encouraging binge-worthy reads! That wraps up this week’s Snapshot Sunday! I can’t wait to dive deeper into more incredible reads and share my thoughts with you all. Be sure to check back for more bookish updates, reviews, and sneak peeks into what’s next on the blog! Until then, happy reading!

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Sins of the Wasteland: Fates Flames – Review of a Gripping Debut Novel

ARC, First Impressions, Reviews /

Thoughts on the book: Fates Flames introduces readers to Selene and Rylan, whose first encounter is brief but sets the tone for the layered, intricate plot that follows. The story then shifts to Rylan, an assassin on a mission that slowly unveils the deep political intrigue running through the book. Rylan’s task is far from simple—he must infiltrate and understand the growing threat the Dara family poses. As he navigates the dangerous terrain of espionage, the weight of his mission becomes increasingly clear. The kingdom, on the brink of a bold and bloody uprising, is a direct result of the Queen’s ruthless ambition. Her greed and hunger for power have left the kingdom in turmoil, and Rylan’s role is to gauge just how deep this revolution runs. Rylan, with his assassin’s precision and sense of duty, approaches his mission with full awareness of the stakes. His role is critical to the kingdom’s future, and the story deftly portrays the tension of a realm on the cusp of chaos. Political intrigue is at the heart of the plot, and the complexity of the Queen’s manipulations becomes more apparent as Rylan uncovers secrets and plots that stretch beyond simple rebellion.  Then we meet Selene, a poised and determined character who carries the weight of her family’s reputation on her shoulders. At first glance, Selene appears aloof, almost too distant to form a connection with Rylan. However, as the story progresses, layers of her personality are peeled back, revealing her intuition, confidence, and hidden vulnerability. Her initial detachment adds to the tension in her relationship with Rylan, as their interactions are charged with unspoken emotions and an underlying sense of danger. This is where the real magic of the story lies—the evolving relationship between Rylan and Selene. Initially, it felt like something was missing in their early interactions, as if a chapter of dialogue or context was skipped. However, once the tension between them begins to build, it becomes almost unbearable. The forbidden romance aspect is at the heart of their dynamic, and each encounter between them brims with tension, as if they’re constantly teetering on the edge of being discovered. The stakes are incredibly high, and every scene between them had me holding my breath. The political intrigue only amplifies this tension. As Rylan and Selene’s relationship deepens, they’re both trapped in the larger conflict between revolutionaries and the crown. Rylan’s mission puts him in direct opposition to Selene’s world, creating a deliciously tense push and pull between duty and desire. This intertwining of romance and revolution makes the book even more compelling, as every personal moment is shadowed by the larger political stakes at play. As the story rushes toward its conclusion, the pacing ramps up, leading to a heart-pounding ending that left me reeling. The final twist is a true mind-bender, shattering expectations and stunned. The conclusion feels both complete and a setup for what’s to come, with soft but intriguing hints at the next phase of this gripping saga. In Fates Flames, the writing shines, particularly in the vivid imagery that draws readers into the world of political intrigue and forbidden romance. The stakes are high, the tension is palpable, and the emotional rollercoaster will keep you glued to the page. This is not a book you can start and stop—it demands to be devoured in one sitting. If you’re looking for a story that combines intense romance with political stakes and a world teetering on the edge of revolution, Fates Flames is a must-read. Recommended Reading if you’re looking for: 

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First Impression: Grumpy Romance by Nia Arthurs

First Impressions, Reviews /

Thoughts on the book: I borrowed this book through my Amazon Prime membership, and the blurb had me intrigued. I tend to love an arrogant, broody billionaire who’s a bit too alpha. Add in the fact that he’s set to be an overprotective father? Sign me up! Kenya Jones, the main female character (MFC), has had her fair share of bad luck in love. Things get even worse when she meets Holland Alistair, the main male character (MMC), on what might be the worst day of her life. That first meeting instantly grabs Holland’s attention, but he’s left wondering why what he knows about Kenya doesn’t line up with how she acted. What follows is a clash of strong personalities that had me wondering if Kenya would ever admit to her feelings for Holland. The romance is set mostly in the workplace, with Kenya being hired as Holland’s second assistant. Their professional relationship adds to the slow burn, as neither one wants to cross that employee/employer line. I loved how the MMC fell first and hated every minute of it! Kenya is headstrong and stubborn, standing her ground with Holland from the start, which I loved (I’m always here for a strong female lead). However, her stubbornness got a little repetitive, and I found myself wishing she’d soften toward Holland just a bit earlier—especially before meeting his daughter. When Kenya does meet Holland’s daughter, she softens toward him almost too quickly, making it feel a bit unrealistic. Also, while this is a slow burn romance, the “fireworks” are pretty tame, with most of the steamy scenes fading to black. So, if you’re looking for something sizzling hot in the bedroom, this book may not be for you. There’s also a subplot that drove me a little nuts! Kenya’s family is… well, a real piece of work. For a good portion of the book, her family dynamic adds to the emotional angst, but about two-thirds of the way through, it kind of vanishes after a big confrontation. I was disappointed not to see a resolution earlier on. Then, in the last chapter, it randomly resurfaces, which felt out of place. It gave me serious Cinderella vibes, but I ended up more annoyed than anything with that whole subplot. The final chapter also briefly introduces the two main characters for the next book in the series. I didn’t mind that, but I wasn’t compelled to continue with the series. While I enjoyed this book and the characters, I know myself well enough to pass on the sequels. In summary, if you’re looking for an angsty, emotional read with an enemies-to-lovers and billionaire trope, this one’s worth picking up. But if you’re in the mood for something super steamy or a light-hearted rom-com, you may want to pass on this one. Recommended Reading if you’re look for: 

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Men in Kilts by Katie MacAlister – Highland Adventure and Laugh-Out-Loud Romance

Reviews, Romance Rewind /

Thoughts on the book: This week’s Romance Rewind is one of my all-time favorite books. I’ve read and re-read it multiple times over the years, and it never fails to make me laugh out loud or smile as I revisit these beloved characters. Katie MacAlister will always have a spot on my bookshelf for her genuinely funny books that have brought me joy for years now! This book is a classic romantic comedy, complete with an embarrassing meet-cute that kicks off the story. Kathie, a mystery writer attending a conference overseas, is battling jet lag (who doesn’t know the feeling?) and ends up passing out in the lobby of her hotel. After a much-needed but drool-inducing nap (yes, really!), she startles awake, realizing she slept far longer than she intended. Scanning the conference attendees, her eyes land on one hunky guy propping up a wall—enter our charming Scotsman, Iain, who just so happened to witness her gloriously embarrassing nap! Kathie and Iain hit it off quickly in a case of insta-lust—and really, who can blame her? We all know a Scottish accent can work wonders! Thankfully, Iain feels the same, and he asks Kathie out for a date that leads to plenty of sparks flying. As the conference wraps up, their relationship takes off, and Kathie decides to extend her stay in Scotland to spend more time with Iain. Once in Scotland, the relationship progresses quickly, and hilarity ensues with these two. The narrative focuses heavily on Kathie—her thoughts, emotions, and perspective—though it’s written in an omniscient style. Iain, unfortunately, doesn’t get as much emotional depth, which makes him feel a bit flat, even though he’s the hunky Scot we’re all rooting for. While I loved how their relationship developed, I did miss getting more of Iain’s perspective. The supporting characters in this book will also either win your heart or make you want to throttle them—there are definitely a couple who land in the “I hate this character” category. Overall, this is a cute, feel-good story that will absolutely make you laugh, and it’s an easy, breezy read. If you’re in need of a mood boost, crack this one open and enjoy! Recommended Reading if you’re looking for: 

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Fall I Want by Lyra Parish-Small Town, Autumn-Inspired, Billionaire Romcom 

Reviews /

Thoughts on this book: ‘Tis the fall season, which means I’m diving into all the fall reads! When I saw this book featured in Lyra’s newsletter—a billionaire romance with small-town vibes—I was instantly sold. If you’ve read any of my previous reviews, you know I’m obsessed with the billionaire trope, so it’s no surprise this made my must-read list. Add in the small-town charm (because seriously, they always have the best fall events), and I was sprinting to Amazon for the pre-order, counting down the days until it hit my Kindle! And in true Lyra fashion, this book did not disappoint! Autumn, our heroine, is an aspiring writer in a rut. She’s working at a coffee shop and recovering from a disastrous breakup that has completely killed her muse. Autumn doesn’t think she’ll ever write again. Oh, and let’s not even get started on Mr. Dreamy—the perfect guy she’s convinced only exists in her imagination. But guess what? One morning, in walks Mr. Dreamy in the flesh, and the sparks immediately start flying! Alexander, a.k.a. Mr. Dreamy, feels the magic too but fights against it. He’s not here for love—he’s here to lay low, which is why he doesn’t correct Autumn’s assumption about his name. He doesn’t want to be recognized as Zane Alexander, heir to his family’s fortune and owner of the local resort in town. Despite their rocky start, their relationship progresses quickly with fake dates that feel very real, exploring a spooky mansion, and attending fall events that make you wish you could live in this charming little town! As they work through their pasts and heal from previous relationships, their love story becomes sweet and endearing. Towards the end, the romance does get a little too sweet, but it fits their characters so well that I didn’t mind. This book is packed with cozy fall vibes and heartwarming romance, which is why it’s now in my rotation of favorite fall reads. If you’re looking for the perfect fall romance, add this one to your TBR list today! Recommended Reading if you’re looking for: 

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Must-Read Fall Book Recommendations: Cozy Reads for Autumn

Lists & Wraps, Snapshots /

It’s that time of year again! The temperatures start to drop, bringing a crispness to the air, the leaves turn those gorgeous gold and red hues, and we all start gearing up for the holiday season. Is this my favorite time of year? Nope! I know, probably not what you expected—but I’m a summer girl at heart. I love the long days, warm sunshine, and the smell of freshly cut grass. But even though it’s not my top season, I can still appreciate the charm of fall. And one of my absolute favorite things to do during this time of year? Curl up with a cozy, fall-themed book while snuggled under a blanket in an oversized hoodie, sipping hot tea, and watching the leaves drift by. Below is a list of my all-time favorite fall reads—some new, some classic, and all with my personal stamp of approval (or on my TBR for this season). So, without further ado, let’s dive in! This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase through these links, I may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. See my policies for further details. The Ex Hex by Erin Sterling Starting off with The Ex Hex! I adore everything about this book. Set in the charming town of Graves Glen, this story follows Vivienne and her ex, Rhys, as he returns to town—and let’s just say things don’t go smoothly. Years ago, heartbroken Vivienne may or may not have cast a little spell on Rhys, and now, magic and mayhem ensue. It’s such a fun, witchy romp that feels perfect for fall. Plus, I’d move to Graves Glen in a heartbeat—it’s autumnal perfection! Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Kobo The Kiss Curse by Erin Sterling If you loved The Ex Hex like I did, don’t sleep on The Kiss Curse! This time, we follow Rhys’ brother, Wells, and the hilarious, headstrong Gwen as they navigate another magical misadventure in Graves Glen. There’s enemies-to-lovers vibes, banter for days, and even more delightful fall atmosphere. I cannot wait for the third book to drop this October! Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Kobo Payback’s a Witch by Lana Harper Another one on my TBR for this fall! This witchy, revenge-fueled romance is filled with small-town magic, old flames, and a dash of mystery. It’s high on my list, and I can’t wait to dive in. Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Kobo From Bad to Cursed by Lana Harper A witchy sequel to Payback’s a Witch, this book centers on cursed family dynamics, dark magic, and long-buried secrets. I’m excited to continue the journey with these characters and see where the magic takes them. Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Kobo Cloudy with a Chance of Witchcraft by Mandy M. Roth This is a fun, paranormal romance that’s perfect for a cozy fall evening. The story follows a weather witch trying to keep a low profile in a magical town, but her quiet life is turned upside down when a mysterious stranger arrives. I fell in love with this enchanting town, and since it’s the first in a series, you can dive into even more witchy adventures as spooky season kicks off! With plenty of humor, a dash of mystery, and just the right amount of romance, this book will keep you turning pages all night. Amazon Fall I Want by Lyra Parish Absolutely adorable! This billionaire romance between Zane and Autumn is so sweet and swoon-worthy, it’s officially earned a permanent spot in my fall must-read rotation. Their love story takes its time to build, but the relationship development is worth the wait. I’ll be posting a full review soon, so stay tuned! Amazon | Barnes & Noble Assistant to the Villain by Hannah Nicole Maehrer This one is currently on my TBR pile, and I’ve only heard rave reviews. It’s also showing up on every fall reading list, which has me extra curious—what makes this book such a seasonal favorite? If you’ve already read it, please let me know if I should bump it up to the top of my list! Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Kobo The Cupcake Witch by Melanie Karsak This is a sweet, charming novella perfect for those who love a touch of magic with their romance. When Julie inherits a mysterious bakery, she finds herself falling in love—not just with the town, but maybe with a certain someone too. It’s the perfect blend of romance and magic for a quick, heartwarming read. Amazon The Modern Girl’s Guide to Magic by Linsey Hall This one is such a fun, fast-paced urban fantasy. Magic, danger, and romance all collide as the protagonist tries to navigate her magical abilities while falling for the bad boy. A great pick if you’re into magical adventures with a dash of romance. Amazon | Barnes & Noble Happy Hour at Casa Dracula by Marta Acosta If you like your vampires with a side of humor, this one’s for you. While not necessarily fall or spooky season-themed, it’s witty, laugh-out-loud funny, and has plenty of romance mixed in with the paranormal hijinks. It’s a perfect fall pick for anyone looking for a fun and flirty read. Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Kobo Dating Dracula by Kinsley Adams Who wouldn’t want to date a vampire, especially Dracula himself? This paranormal romance is quirky, hilarious, and surprisingly touching as it explores the idea of falling for the world’s most famous vampire. A great read for those looking for something a little out of the ordinary this fall. Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Kobo Bite Me, Your Grace by Brooklyn Ann This historical paranormal romance is a must-read for vampire fans. When an outspoken debutante catches the eye of the most notorious vampire in London, chaos (and romance) ensues. It’s a perfect mix of historical fiction and paranormal fun! Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Kobo Rebel Spell by Lisa Carlisle If you’re in

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Saturday Series: The Kings of Sin by Ana Huang

Saturday Series /

Amazon | Barnes & Noble Amazon | Barnes & Noble Amazon | Barnes & Noble Amazon | Barnes & Noble This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase through these links, I may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. See my policies for further details. I might be late to the party, but I finally started reading this series and devoured the first four books! Of course, as my luck would have it, the series isn’t complete yet – talk about testing my patience as I wait for the next release! Lately, I’ve been obsessed with the billionaire trope, so when I found out this series was all about billionaires, I had to dive in. I mean, who doesn’t love the fantasy of accidentally bumping into a billionaire and having the romantic comedy of the year? Maybe it’s delusional, but hey, a girl can dream! Now, on to the books: King of Wrath kicks things off with a steamy arranged marriage billionaire romance. Dante, the grumpy workaholic billionaire, and Vivian, a jewelry heiress, are thrown together by an arranged marriage. Dante isn’t your cute, slightly grumpy guy; he’s more of a grump to the core, which can make you want to scream. But Vivian manages to break through his tough exterior, and their love story unfolds in a way that’s full of emotional ups and downs, keeping you hooked. The relationship development here is so satisfying. While it’s the first in the series, you can totally read it as a standalone. No pressure! King of Pride follows Kai Young, a reserved billionaire, and Isabella, a vibrant aspiring author. They are total opposites, and the tension between them is delicious. Introduced in the first book, it’s so satisfying to see their chemistry finally explode in their own story. It’s a bit of a slow burn, but once they dive into their relationship, it’s electric! Kai and Isabella have quickly become my favorite couple of the series so far (although I still have more books to go). This one is an opposites-attract, forbidden romance that will have you rooting for them all the way. King of Greed gives us a marriage-in-trouble, second-chance romance. Now, I’ll admit, second-chance romances aren’t usually my thing, but Dominic and Alessandra’s journey surprised me. Their marriage is on the rocks, big time, and the book dives right into the conflict. Both characters go through immense growth, and by the end, their reunion feels well-earned. Even though I’m not the biggest fan of this trope, the emotional depth made it a worthwhile read. King of Sloth brings us a steamy forced-proximity romance between Sloane, a publicist, and Xavier, one of her problematic clients. I was so excited to finally get to Sloane’s story after meeting her in earlier books, but I have to admit, the beginning was a bit slow for me. Once the story picked up, though, it hit all the right notes. Xavier, the notorious playboy, has some serious growth, and I loved watching him fall head over heels for Sloane. This book may have had a slow start, but it finished strong, delivering the romance I was waiting for. Each book in the Kings of Sin series can be read as a standalone, but honestly, the fun comes from seeing how the stories interconnect. If you’re in the mood for billionaires, angst, and romance, this series is a binge-worthy escape!

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First Impressions: Cookies for My Orc Neighbor by Michelle Mills

First Impressions, Reviews /

Thoughts on the book: I picked up this book as part of a Stuff Your Kindle Day event, so I went into it with relatively low expectations, especially since I wasn’t actively searching for a romance in this particular genre. That being said, I ended up enjoying the overall story. It’s lighthearted and has a quick pace, making it an easy read. The story centers around Grace, our main female character (MFC), and Alden, the main male character (MMC). Grace has been living next door to Alden for a while and has developed an attraction to him from afar. Alden, on the other hand, has barely noticed Grace’s existence—until one snowy winter day when she quite literally lands at his feet. From that moment, things escalate quickly, with instant lust turning into instant love, and Alden doing a bit of brooding over it all. Grace’s character was well-written, which I appreciated, especially since I love a strong female lead. She had her own voice and agency, which made her relatable. Alden, however, felt a little more one-dimensional. He had a few gaps in his character development, and I found myself wanting more from his backstory. The story itself was fun, but I felt it was lacking in certain areas. For example, there was little to no explanation about the Orcs (yep, Alden is an Orc!). How did they come to be mingling in human society? What are the triggers for this whole “mate” situation? There was so much potential to build a fascinating world here, but it wasn’t fully explored. While the story didn’t necessarily need these elements to work, having them would’ve definitely elevated the plot and made the book more immersive. The romance, while fast-paced, leaned heavily on traditional gender roles, which may or may not appeal to all readers. The dynamic between Grace and Alden was fun, but it felt like there was more focus on Alden’s brooding and possessiveness than on developing their relationship. It would’ve been nice to see a little more balance or growth in their connection. And as much as I love a good insta-love trope, I usually prefer when there’s a bit more build-up or tension leading to the big romantic moments. This book is definitely on the lighter side, and it’s not one you’d pick up if you’re looking for something with a lot of depth or complexity. There’s minimal world-building and backstory, so don’t expect to get swept away by a richly developed setting. However, if you’re in the mood for something quick and easy to read, this book will do the trick. It’s perfect for a cozy afternoon when you just want to relax with a fun, light romance. In summary, if you’re looking for a quick, no-frills romance, this book could be a great pick—especially if you can grab it for free, like I did. But if you’re in the mood for something with a little more substance or emotional complexity, you might want to pass on this one. Recommended Reading if you’re looking for: 

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Romance Rewind: The Science of Attraction by Verity Jacobs

Reviews, Romance Rewind /

Thoughts on the book: While this book was published over a decade ago, it remains one of my absolute favorite reads today. I love a good nerdy twist in a romance, and this one definitely hits the mark with its witty banter and geeky charm! There’s something undeniably delightful about watching two scientists fall head over heels, especially when the chemistry—pun intended—is sizzling from the start. Who knew science could be so damn sexy? I mean, for most of us, science class was the kind of subject that made you want to snooze through lectures or count the minutes until lunch. But if my science teacher had been anything like Tom Baker, I’m pretty sure I would have aced every test! Tom and Kate, our two brilliant scientists, both have the hots for each other right from the get-go, but they’re determined to keep things professional. Spoiler alert: that determination lasts about 2.5 seconds before they can’t resist the undeniable pull between them. Their instant chemistry had me wanting to drag Tom into a secluded lab for some ahem experiments of my own! Once they give in to their attraction, it’s not just a physical connection that unfolds. The affection between Tom and Kate grows naturally, and their budding romance turns into one of those ooey-gooey love stories that melts your heart. But of course, nothing is that simple. Just when you think they’re about to live happily ever after, we get hit with a big, nasty curveball—enter Rob, the true villain of the piece. Rob, who just so happens to be Kate’s boss and the head of the science institute where she and Tom work, is one of those characters you love to hate. And here’s the kicker: when the story starts, Kate’s in a relationship with Rob. DON’T WORRY—THIS ISN’T A LOVE TRIANGLE! Rob is basically the definition of a Grade A Jerkface, and the author does a fantastic job of writing him in a way that makes his eventual downfall all the more satisfying. Watching his smug facade crumble is one of the highlights of the book. But this story is really about Tom and Kate, and I loved how their relationship evolved beyond just chemistry in the lab. They complement each other in such a sweet and nerdy way. Even though their journey isn’t all rainbows and roses, in the end, they get their version of a perfect happily-ever-after—one that involves labs, cells, and a lot of love. Overall, this book is a true gem for romance lovers who appreciate a nerdy twist. The witty banter, palpable chemistry, and relatable struggles make it a standout even years after its release. If you want another nerdy book from Verity Jacobs be sure to check out her follow-up novel: The Music of Attraction (Expats #2) Recommended Reading if you’re looking for: 

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