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Seamus by Katrina Vincent – A Fated to the Fae Romance!

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Thoughts on the book: Say it with me: FATED MATES! Squeals with glee! Yes, I’m an absolute sucker for a fated mates storyline! I will debate this trope forever, and no, you’ll never change my mind—it’s the best, with some of the most fun storylines out there. When I discovered Katrina Vincent’s Fated to the Fae series, I devoured each book with the speed of a cheetah and the excitement of a five-year-old on Christmas morning. Since Seamus is the third book, you may want to read the first two before diving in, but it’s not strictly necessary. If you’re feeling rebellious or short on time, never fear—you can still enjoy this book as a standalone. Here’s a quick recap to set the scene! The Fae realm has a shortage of females due to the magical portals between worlds being closed. These closures weren’t accidental but deliberate, and over time, this led to a dangerously low number of females. In Book 1, a human woman accidentally stumbles into the Fae realm, followed by another in Book 2. Each discovers her fated mate through a process called the “Questioning” (think The Bachelorette but fae-style!). These women, it turns out, are half-fae, descended from ancient fae bloodlines. While many in the Fae realm see this as hope for a brighter future, some aren’t thrilled, and lingering tensions add a layer of intrigue from Book 2 into Book 3. Alright, let’s talk about the characters in Seamus! Seamus is our lovable cinnamon roll of a hero, and if you’ve read the earlier books, you’ll recognize him. He’s been in every story so far, and his sweet, thoughtful personality shines through each time. I was always disappointed when he didn’t make it further in the Questioning processes, which is why I adored this book! Seamus’s personality comes through in the best ways here—he’s even more thoughtful and surprisingly bold. And let’s just say, when the spice kicks in, he’s full of surprises! Then there’s Taylor, the sister of Sarah (the main character from Book 2). Taylor is such a fun character—independent, fierce, and with a wicked sense of humor. I wasn’t sure what to expect from her at first, but I quickly came to love her, especially as her depth and thoughtfulness emerged. By the end, she had secured her place as my favorite female character in the series! From chapter one, sparks fly between Seamus and Taylor, and the chemistry is unmistakable. Their fated connection is palpable, adding a bit of forbidden allure since dating isn’t the norm in the Fae realm. Given the scarcity of females, every pairing goes through the intense “Questioning.” There’s one scene where Seamus tackles a puzzle during the Questioning—I was on the edge of my seat, hands sweaty, praying he’d pass! Even with fated mates, the suspense of who will be chosen keeps you hooked. If you’re a fan of fantasy with fated mates, fae magic, and a dash of intrigue, I highly recommend grabbing Seamus and the first two books in the Fated to the Fae series. It’s a delightful mix of romance, adventure, and heartwarming moments, perfect as a lighter read between heavier books. I’m eagerly awaiting the next installment in this series and can’t wait to see which fae and human pairing Katrina Vincent has in store for us next! Recommended if You Enjoy: Book One in Fated to the Fae! Jane wakes up in a strange place surrounded by four sexy men that all have wings. Fairy wings. They tell her she isn’t in the human realm any she’s in Fairie. Oh, and none of them know how to help her get home to New York City, so Jane is stuck following the laws of the fae realm. This means starring in her own Questioning, a matchmaking event hosted for each single female as they come of mating age that gives the abundance of eligible males in the realm a chance at love while ensuring all females have total control of their destiny. But on her first evening in the fae realm, she meets Kiernan, Prince of the Summer Court. She can’t stop thinking about him, even if he’s standoffish and cold. Especially because every moment together has him warming up more and more. All too quickly, Jane’s watching a hundred men compete in The Questioning for the chance to be with her. She has every finger crossed that Kiernan might be the last man standing for her, but if he is, will she want to stay? Or will she keep trying to find the portal home? Book Two in Fated to the Fae! When Sarah is magically transported from New York City to Fairie, she’s shocked to discover the stories her great-grandmother told her are true. There’s another world and it’s filled with fairies. Oh, yeah, and she’s a descendant which makes her half-fae. When she learns about The Questioning, a fae dating game that’s a mix between The Bachelorette and Tinder on crack, she can’t wait to sign up for true love and her very own fate bond. She’s thrilled when The Questioning begins and there are 79 men vying for the chance to win her heart. But then Sarah overhears whispers about problems with The Questioning. Did someone mess with her Questioning? Because the last man standing is the last man she would choose to be hers.

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Compromised for Christmas by Lizzie C Koz – A Festive Holiday Romance!

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Thoughts on the book: Once upon a time, I was scrolling through social media, looking for new holiday book recommendations. Suddenly, a blurb for Compromised for Christmas by Lizzie C. Koz caught my eye. I can’t remember if it was Instagram or Threads, but something about it hooked me instantly, and I ran to pre-order this delightful holiday romp by a new author! Our heroine, Georgianna—or Gigi—is a spirited debutante with an overbearing mother who is determined to marry her off to a titled gentleman. Unfortunately for Gigi, the marriage prospects are less than inspiring, so she decides to take matters into her own hands. She sets out to ensnare a duke known for his wicked ways but instead finds herself in an unexpected (and hilarious) predicament with Fitz. Fitzwilliam, or Fitz, is our bumbling, endearing hero who is completely unprepared for Gigi and her boldness. Their first encounter is hilarious, especially when Fitz finds himself “rescued” by Gigi—who, due to her prior attempt with the duke, has her breasts exposed! Poor Fitz doesn’t stand a chance, and their whirlwind romance leads them to a quick marriage. Fitz’s earnest attempts to win Gigi’s heart are both endearing and comical. He’s determined to be everything he thinks she needs, both in and out of the bedroom, but he often stumbles along the way. His awkwardness and genuine efforts add to the charm of the story, and their miscommunications create just the right amount of tension. The chemistry between them is undeniable, and the steamy scenes are both plentiful and well-crafted, moving the relationship forward naturally while adding a bit of sizzle to the holiday season. One of my favorite aspects of the story is how it blends historical romance with a touch of modern holiday cheer. For example, there’s a family competition featuring “ugly waistcoats,” which reminded me fondly of every ugly Christmas sweater I’ve ever seen! While these touches add a contemporary flair that I personally enjoyed, I know not every reader may love this blend in a historical setting. For me, it just added to the festive fun. Overall, Compromised for Christmas is a fantastic, easy-to-read holiday treat! It has everything you’d want from a festive romance: a charming love story, laugh-out-loud moments, family dynamics, and plenty of holiday spirit. The spice level is just right, and the plot moves at a perfect pace for cozying up by the fire with a cup of hot cocoa. If you’re in the mood for a holiday romance that combines warmth, humor, and a bit of heat, I highly recommend giving this one a try. I can’t wait to dive into the next story in the Jennings Family saga, and I’ll definitely be revisiting Fitz and Gigi’s story before the season is over! Recommended Reading if you’re looking for: 

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Christmas Criminal by Ally Williams- A Spicy Holiday Romance!

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Thoughts on the book: I know I’ve said this before, but I’m a total sucker for a good Hallmark movie. So, when I spotted The Christmas Criminal by Ally Williams, I was immediately intrigued! Imagine a classic Hallmark plot—small-town Christmas vibes, a dash of romance, and a cozy holiday setting—but with a spicy twist! This book has it all: a slow-burn romance, a little holiday mischief, and a major dose of chemistry. You can see why picking this one up was a no-brainer for me. Our heroine, Noelle, is the “Christmas Criminal” of the story, back in her hometown to serve community service. Caught causing some mischief by the local sheriff, she’s given an ultimatum: jail time or community service. Naturally, she chooses the latter, even though it means spending most of her time in her old high school, a place that brings up a lot of bad memories for her. But there’s a silver lining to this punishment: Nick, the hunky high school math teacher assigned to oversee her service hours. Nick is the dreamy math teacher we all wish we’d had—tall, charming, and with a surprising love for Christmas. He sees his role in community service as a chance to give back, but he definitely wasn’t expecting to be so drawn to Noelle, his mischievous “little criminal.” Their dynamic is playful, with Nick’s warm, Christmas-loving heart softening Noelle’s rough edges. What follows is a delicious slow-burn romance between two very different people who surprisingly complement each other perfectly. Noelle’s tough exterior and reluctance to embrace the holiday spirit slowly melt away under Nick’s influence, and their chemistry is undeniable. The banter between them is so well-written, and each interaction builds up the tension. When the sparks finally fly, the payoff is well worth the wait! The plot itself is fun, festive, and surprisingly thoughtful, with moments that feel like they’re straight out of a Christmas movie. Yes, it’s a little cheesy in the best way possible, but that’s part of the charm! The small-town setting, complete with Christmas lights, and festive decorations, really draws you in and makes you feel like you’re right there in the middle of it all. If you’re in the mood for an easy, cozy read with a holiday twist, The Christmas Criminal is a perfect choice. It’s the kind of story that works as a great palate cleanser or a quick Christmas read that’s sure to make you smile. The added spice just takes it up a notch, making it even more enjoyable. Honestly, it almost makes me want to get into a little mischief myself—who wouldn’t want to find themselves doing community service with a hunky math teacher? So, if you’re looking for a light-hearted, festive romance with a bit of heat and all the cozy Christmas vibes, give The Christmas Criminal a try. It’s a holiday treat you won’t regret! Recommended Reading if you’re looking for: 

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Lemon Cake by Tanja Longoria – A Heartwarming Romance with Hallmark Movie Feels

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Thoughts on the book: Do you love Hallmark movies? I sure do, and I’m not ashamed to admit it! Whenever my brain gets too bogged down from sitcoms, reality shows, or the latest blockbuster, I love to unwind with a feel-good Hallmark romance. The simple plots (when there is one!) and guaranteed happily-ever-afters are like a breath of fresh air. If that sounds like your kind of vibe, you’re going to LOVE this book! Lemon Cake delivers major Hallmark movie vibes—not because it’s set in a small town, but because it’s a straightforward boy-meets-girl-and-falls-in-love story. There’s no wild plot about catching criminals, renovating houses, or a struggling artist falling for a billionaire. There’s no emotional angst, either. It’s simple, sweet, and a great palate cleanser between heavier reads. Rider is a dedicated football player, intensely focused as he gears up for the new season. Football is his world, and he’s never had to balance a relationship alongside his commitment to the game. He’s convinced that his single-minded focus wouldn’t allow him to keep a relationship alive during this time. Then there’s Gemma, an amputee who used to play football in school and still loves the sport. Her playful personality shines throughout the book, but she’s also dealing with insecurities related to her prosthesis. A big part of her journey involves learning how to navigate her relationship with Rider, especially her concerns about how he might perceive her prosthesis and its challenges. Gemma and Rider meet during pre-season, thanks to a cute moment facilitated by Gemma’s nephew. It’s not a grand meet-cute, but rather a realistic encounter you could easily see happening in everyday life. As their relationship progresses, it’s heartwarming to see—complete with texting, introductions to friends, and sweet moments that feel authentic. It’s not a whirlwind romance, but it’s also not a slow burn. Instead, their connection develops at a steady, natural pace, which I absolutely loved. Reading Lemon Cake felt like watching a Hallmark movie—only with a lot more spice! The steamy scenes are well-written and blend seamlessly with the development of Gemma and Rider’s relationship. They never felt over-the-top or out of place. The only thing that didn’t quite sit right with me was the pacing toward the end of the book. The last third of the story felt a bit rushed, with time lapses that disrupted the flow and made the everyday moments feel repetitive at times. I also found Rider’s character a bit one-dimensional. While I enjoyed his dedication to football, I wished there had been more depth to his character, maybe an additional layer of insecurity beyond just balancing a relationship with his game-focused mindset. Overall, I’d recommend Lemon Cake to anyone looking for a sweet romance with a Hallmark feel. It’s exactly what it promises—low angst, sports romance with a bit of spice, and a satisfying standalone story (though I’m crossing my fingers for a series!). I’d love to see some of the side characters, like Gemma’s sister, get their own stories in the future! Recommended Reading if you’re looking for: 

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

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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.

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

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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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