First Impressions Archives - Romance Confidential

First Impressions of Cck Down the Block: A Hilarious, Body-Positive Rom-Com

Thoughts on the book: I picked up C*ck Down the Block way back when it was first released, entirely drawn in by the title. Let’s face it—who wouldn’t be intrigued? The title hints at a fun and lighthearted rom-com vibe, which is always my jam. Add in a sporty backdrop (I’m not picky!) and a curvy FMC? Sign me up! It did take me forever to get around to actually reading it—because, like most of us, my TBR is out of control—but finally diving in felt like the right time. The story follows Beatrix, aka Trixie, a librarian with major girl-next-door vibes. She’s quirky, charming, and a true book lover, plus she’s rocking her body positivity. Trixie’s dealing with some Mean Girls-style baggage from her past, which is what leads her to rope in Chris, the local all-American QB, as her fake boyfriend. Chris, though? Oh, he’s smitten. Like, puppy-dog-in-love smitten. He’s been head over heels for Trixie for years, so when she asks him to help, he seizes the opportunity to make her his for real. The dynamic between them is adorable, and I loved how much heart Chris poured into his “fake” role. The side characters and family dynamics add a lot to the story, bringing warmth and humor. And let’s not forget the chickens—Luke Skycocker is a name I’ll never unsee! These moments gave the book some laugh-out-loud moments that kept it fresh. That said, the writing style didn’t fully click for me. While it’s super easy to read, it felt like having a conversation with a Gen Z personality, peppered with Millennial slang and TikTok-worthy phrasing. It didn’t ruin the story, but it’s not a style I’d rush back to. All in all, if you’re after a fluffy, fun rom-com with a hip edge, this is a solid pick. There are more books in the works featuring the family, so there’s plenty to look forward to if you enjoy this universe. For me, this is the kind of book I’d grab again when I need a quick, lighthearted escape.

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

ARC, First Impressions, Reviews / Leslie

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!

ARC, First Impressions, Reviews / Leslie

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

ARC, First Impressions, Reviews / Leslie

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

ARC, First Impressions, Reviews / Leslie

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 / Leslie

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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First Impressions: Cookies for My Orc Neighbor by Michelle Mills

First Impressions, Reviews / Leslie

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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