Tag Archives: Contemporary romance

Josh and Hazel’s Guide to Not Dating by Christina Lauren

Book Review, ,
Overview

Title: Josh and Hazel’s Guide to Not Dating
Author: Christina Lauren
Rating Out of 5: 5 (I will read this again and again and again)
My Bookshelves: Contemporary, Contemporary romance
Pace: Medium
Format: eBook, Novel
Year: 2018

Thoughts

Hazel is most definitely my favourite kind of calamity walking. She’s funny and cute, but, she also is uncoordinated and tends to put her foot in her mouth. Frequently. With great gusto. But, the bit that I love most about this is that l, although Hazel is off kilter and not exactly mainstream on her actions, she doesn’t change a thing about herself. Throughout this whole story, there isn’t one instance in which she tries to change herself.

Josh as a counterpoint to Hazel is kind of a quiet, vanilla sort of lead. He isn’t the normal male lead that I enjoy,  bit too quiet and straight laced for my tastes. But, I enjoyed him a lot regardless. He was sweet and easygoing. Plus, his calmness was the best balance for Hazel’s insanity. That, and the fact that his easygoing nature meant he loved Hazel for exactly who she is. There is not one moment, from friends to lovers, when Josh doesn’t accept Hazel and revel in her uniqueness.

I have to admit, that the start of this story, and the way that Josh and Hazel’s first meet is one of the best meetings I’ve read in a romcom in a long time. I mean, she walks up to him, says she wants to have sex… then throws up on his shoes. If that’s not memorable, then what is? I literally laughed out loud at this, and it made me sink right into these words without wanting to put the book down.

Friends to lovers is one of my favourite romance tropes. The fact that, as friends, they go on a bunch of double dates together just cemented their wonderful friendship. I like that each of these didn’t really end well, so although there were flashes of jealousy, it was more about Josh and Hazel’s getting to know one another better and better. Plus, the humour in each and everyone of these fiascos… made me love this story all that much more.

<- In a HolidazeLove and Other Words ->

Image source: Amazon

In at the Deep End by Penelope Janu

Book Review, , ,
Overview

Title: In at the Deep End
Author: Penelope Janu
Rating Out of 5: 5 (I will read this again and again and again)
My Bookshelves: Australian authors, Contemporary, Contemporary romance
Pace: Medium
Format: eBook, Novel
Year: 2023

Thoughts

This was one of those novels I bought because it was on sale, and it was suggested in one of the many author emails that I receive. Other than the fact that I liked the blurb and the cover, I really didn’t know what to expect from this. Which, of course mean that I was pleasantly surprised and happy to find out that I really enjoyed this.

The idea that this is a romance centred on an adventurer who goes out on boats, but can’t swim is kind of interesting. At first, I kind of questioned that whole creation of a character’s flaws and wondered at it. And then I started to find out more about the backstory. Suddenly, the whole afraid of the water, but on a ship thing made sense. And it kind of broke my heart – also just made me freak out because the way that Harry’s mum died is pretty much one of my worst nightmares…

Although Harry’s backstory is really sad, one of the things that really got my goat in this story was how she is constantly overlooked by others. Not just by Per, but people who actually work with her and know her family. I mean, the sad backstory part was a great aspect of this story. But, the part that I found really hard to deal with (because from experience, it is reality), when Harry is constantly ignored and overlooked because of her gender and lack of degree. Yet, she’s this amazing woman who has some serious strength to overcome her challenges.

I did want there to be a moment of realisation at the end of this for those who have completely overlooked Harry and taken the word of Per (a man with a degree) over her, even with years of experience. Alas, that doesn’t happen. Even slightly. At first, I was frustrated that there was no moment of understanding, but then I recognised that this, again, is more like reality. I mean, people don’t recognise their own biases generally – it takes something pretty drastic. And although it annoyed me (and eventually Per in this book), I loved that it was actually kind of more realistic. Again, it also showed Harry’s strength in that she recognises all of this nonsense, but just decides to do what is best, even with challenges.

Per is kind of a knob to begin with. I mean, he literally decides he can dictate the life of a woman he has just met. And, he doesn’t really change his heavy handed ways throughout this story. Again, there is no moment of understanding and changing of ways. Although, as he gets to know Harry, he does obviously start to respect her. And there is a little bit of improvement in his mannerisms, but just to our heroine, because, again, people don’t actually change. Yet, for all of his knobbishness, I actually really liked Per. Even from the beginning when he was behaving pretty crappily. Definitely a book that I look forward to reading again. And now I get to find more about Janu’s writing!

<- Clouds on the HorizonOn the Right Track ->

Image source: Goodreads

Hands On by Jaci Burton

Book Review, ,
Overview

Title: Hands On
Author: Jaci Burton
Rating Out of 5: 3 (On the fence about this one)
My Bookshelves: Contemporary, Contemporary romance
Pace: Slow
Format: eBook, Novella
Year: 2005

Thoughts

I have mixed feelings about this. On the one hand, I did enjoy the storyline and wanted to actually get through this novella. On the other, I found some of the writing a little bit clunky and more of a challenge to get through. I’ll still read more of Jaci Burton, but this definitely wasn’t one of my favourites.

I really enjoyed the idea of a sex specialist who is somewhat awkward. I loved the disconnect between real life experience and academic intelligence. Alright, it hit a few too many clichés, but Lara was still a fun character to get to know.

I didn’t like Mark as much as Lara. He was kind of a dick and user. And yes, he was redeemed by love. But in the end, he gave up pretty much nothing to get what he wanted. The stereotypical sexy journalist that I just didn’t get excited by.

Whilst this was a fun story, it hit a lot of clichés and was a bit tedious at points. Whilst I enjoyed the hour it took to read this, it’s definitely not one that I would read again.

<- Garden of EdenHousebroke ->

Image source: Amazon

Fake It Till You Make It by Leigh Donnelly

Book Review, , ,
Overview

Title: Fake It Till You Make It
Author: Leigh Donnelly
Rating Out of 5: 4.5 (Amazing, but not quite perfect)
My Bookshelves: Contemporary, Contemporary romance, Food
Pace: Medium
Format: eBook, Novel
Year: 2023

Thoughts

I loved this WAY more than I expected. Admittedly, I didn’t have huge expectations going into it, but still. This was far, far more enjoyable than I was anticipating. Probably in part because both the leads in this romance were involved in the food industry. And, as a lover of all things food, I’m preprogrammed to enjoy any story with such a theme.

I’m such a lover of relationships that start with a fake ruse and forced proximity. I love that the beginning of this was even more awkward – asking a man you just met to pose as your fiancé. And pretty much yelling in his face every time she felt awkward… although you kind of know exactly how it will all work out; the pure awkwardness was brilliant and enjoyably cheesy.

Both the leads in this novel have incredibly narcissistic exes. Both act out in different ways. And the male ex is not just narcissistic, but abusive. It made for a great challenge to the romance – not so much in getting over the damage of the past (which there is some of). But in getting over their constant manipulations and insanity in the presence. The narcissism is actually kind of scary in moments.

In fact, the narcissistic exes take such centre stage throughout this story as conflict that I was expecting a bit more of them in the epilogue. I kind of liked that although they are so central to the conflict, they’re effectively forgotten about in the ending. The best punishment ever for these horrible individuals.

<- More Leigh DonnellyIgnore Scott ->

Image source: Amazon

Bad Bridesmaid by Portia MacIntosh

Book Review, , ,
Overview

Title: Bad Bridesmaid
Author: Portia MacIntosh
Rating Out of 5: 3 (On the fence about this one)
My Bookshelves: Contemporary, Contemporary romance, Family
Pace: Slow
Format: eBook, Novel
Year: 2014

Thoughts

The reason I marked this kind of low in the star factor is that, even though I enjoyed this story, I had some serious issues with some of the family dynamics throughout. I mean, it’s obvious that MacIntosh wants to create a story about a dysfunctional family. But what she created wasn’t dysfunctional. It was downright abusive. And honestly, the bit that made me drastically rate down a book that I otherwise enjoyed was that I was seriously pissed off that in the end, everything was forgiven. There was a lot that shouldn’t have been forgiven.

Mia, as the lead, is kind of sympathetic in the fact that, like I said, her family is filled with arseholes. But, that excuse kind of gets a bit old. I mean, aspects of her personality are sympathetic, but I also found her really whiney and kind of boring at times. There was so much potential for growth in her, and I loved that for the first half. But then, she didn’t really have all that much growth. I did love her she floundered from one epic fail to the other though. It was kind of hilarious if I’m being honest.

Then there was Leo. He was actually kind of sweet, and a lot of what I’m generally looking for in a lead male of a good romance. But, again, there were a few issues. He spends the whole time telling Mia that he doesn’t want a relationship, and just wants a good romp in the sheets. But, it’s obvious from the very beginning that he does want a relationship. And then, he actually admits that that’s what he wants. It’s a little bit, annoyingly deceitful. And yet, like with Mia, I still actually liked him.

So there were a lot of serious issues with this story which would normally lead me to DNF this book. Yet, I actually really enjoyed it. There is something very talented about MacIntosh and how beautifully she is able to craft her stories. It turns something that has points to rant and rave about into a story that I would still read again in the future.

<- The Accidental HoneymoonBetter Off Wed ->

Image source: Amazon

Grumpy as Puck by Elizabeth Lynx

Book Review, , ,
Overview

Title: Grumpy as Puck
Author: Elizabeth Lynx
Series: Blue Ridge Mountain Hockey #1
Rating Out of 5: 4 (Really good read!)
My Bookshelves: Contemporary, Contemporary romance, Sports romance
Pace: Slow
Format: eBook, Novel
Year: 2022

Thoughts

I’m not going to lie, I picked this up because of the title, I love a good puny title. But, beyond that, I didn’t quite know what to expect. It turns out, this was a good and easy read. Not necessarily a book that I will reread a thousand times, but one that I did seriously enjoy throughout the reading of it.

For the first half of this book, I did find Daisy to be a bit of an idiot. I mean, she catches her boyfriend cheating with her boss, and just… walks away? And continues working for the woman? It might be my impulsiveness, but I definitely relate better to tales of woman who go nuclear on that kind of behaviour. Maybe I’ve also been reading too many urban fantasy books where the woman is more likely to stomp on the guy’s head (literally, both…).

Cillian I didn’t have too many issues with though. Granted, he’s a grump and doesn’t have the greatest filter on his treatment of others. But I kind of get the need. Honestly, a lot of what he says throughout this is the internal monologue in my brain. I just care a little more about others’ emotions I suppose… I do love that a lot of his brashness is about thinking others hate him. Which turns out to be completely false.

As much as I enjoyed this romance and the growth that each goes through, there were a few moments I struggled with. Firstly, Jackson’s attitude to Cillian. It did a full 180, without any real moment of epiphany. I felt like this needed a little more work and build up before it happened. And, then there’s all the crap that Cillian’s ex puts him through. I mean, it works for the storyline, but it SO could’ve been a stronger plot point.

<- More Elizabeth LynxDangle the Ring ->

Image source: Goodreads

1001 Dark Nights: Bundle One by Shayla Black, Heather Graham, Liliana Hart & Tina Folsom

Book Review, , , , , , ,
Overview

Title: 1001 Dark Nights: Bundle One
Author: Shayla Black, Heather Graham, Liliana Hart & Tina Folsom
In: 1001 Dark Nights: Bundle One (Shayla Black, Heather Graham, Liliana Hart & Tina Folsom)
Rating Out of 5: 3 (On the fence about this one)
My Bookshelves: Contemporary romance, Paranormal romance, Short story collections
Pace: Slow
Format: Anthology, eBook
Year: 2015

Thoughts

Of the four novellas, I actually only enjoyed reading one. And only read one from beginning to end. Yet, it was worth the read, and I will dive into more of these bundles. I mean, there’s nothing wrong with trying something and then just finding that it doesn’t quite work for you.

One of the things I really liked about this anthology is that each of the stories has a bit of steam and romance. All of them have vastly different flavours and it is definitely a good way to dip your toe into not only different authors and series, but also different kinds of romances. I’m getting to a point in my romance reading that I tend to know what I like, but if I was new to the genre? It would be a fantastic way to give things a bit of a try.

I enjoyed reading this anthology, it’s not necessarily anything to rave about, but it was still enjoyable.

<- Silent BiteForever Wicked ->

Image source: Booktopia

Lucky Star by Susannah Nix

Book Review, , ,
Overview

Title: Lucky Star
Author: Susannah Nix
Series: Starstruck #4
Rating Out of 5: 4.5 (Amazing, but not quite perfect)
My Bookshelves: Contemporary, Contemporary romance
Pace: Medium
Format: eBook, Novel
Year: 2022

Thoughts

This is a nice, cute and easy read. A fairly common (but still awesome trope) about a fake relation becoming something more. I love that they orchestrated this so seamlessly and there wasn’t quite as much angst as expected when they start moving towards something more. There’s a little of it (because otherwise it really wouldn’t be worth the read), but nowhere near as much drama as I expected.

I absolutely love that the lead female in this is honestly a total fan girl. I mean, she’s literally written blogs and fanfiction to him. But, instead of looking at him as the object of her fandom, she actually takes the time to get to know him. I love this switch and the way she is able to see past her enjoyment of his job to who he is as a man. And help him get over the abuses of his past.

Nix manages to beautifully deal with the realities that people (anyone) face when they are overcoming an abusive relationship. It is definitely a difficult journey. One that is still a work in progress at the end of this story. But one that has so much hope and enjoyment for the future. Nix is able to really work to remind you that there are all kinds of abuse, and they happen to EVERYONE. No preconceived notions.

This is yet another sweet and fantastic romance from Nix. It’s fun and easy to read. But also sweet, with just the right level of intensity to it that you can’t help but be obsessed. Plus, there’s also the great reminder that everyone has their hurdles to overcome. And relationships are all about finding a way move toward a better future together.

<- Rising StarMore Susannah Nix ->

Image source: Amazon

Stripped Down by Eva Moore

Book Review, , ,
Overview

Title: Stripped Down
Author: Eva Moore
Series: Exposed Dreams #2
Rating Out of 5: 4.5 (Amazing, but not quite perfect)
My Bookshelves: Contemporary, Contemporary romance
Pace: Medium
Format: eBook, Novel
Year: 2018

Thoughts

There were certain aspects of this story (primarily Natalie’s past) from the Christmas short story Decked Out. Yet, this still fleshed out a lot of their characters. And was a very fun and engaging romance. It was one of those easy read romances that was cute and fun. But it also focused on the fact that both Enzo and Natalie had to work on themselves and their own hangups to truly be good for one another.

There is something extra special about single parent romances. I think because it is never just about the parent, and there is a whole other aspect of trusting that just isn’t there when you aren’t a parent. And in this story, I love that Enzo is forming a bond and relationship with daisy. Not because it makes things better with Natalie (if anything it makes her go off her rocker even more), but because of Daisy in and of herself.

Where Enzo is constantly working at improvement throughout this story, it does take Natalie an annoyingly long time to move past her own insecurities. But, when she is finally called on her crap and chooses to grow up a little, it is seriously glorious. And a bit of a reminder that sometimes asking for help isn’t actually such a bad thing after all…

Although all of Enzo’s actions come from a really nice place, they definitely are not as considerate as they should be. It’s fantastic that he finds a way to move on from this. I mean, its all well and good to want to solve the problems of someone you love. But if you don’t actually take the time to learn HOW to, it’s really just you acting in a fairly entitled way. Or at least, that’s how I felt upon reading this. And through some of my own experiences.

Ultimately, Enzo and Natalie learn to process their own damage and create a new reality for themselves. At the centre of all of this is the idea that communication is key. You can’t just assume you know what someone else is feeling – you have to ask them.

<- Opened UpDecked Out ->

Image source: Kobo

Opened Up by Eva Moore

Book Review, , ,
Overview

Title: Opened Up
Author: Eva Moore
Series: Exposed Dreams #1
Rating Out of 5: 4.5 (Amazing, but not quite perfect)
My Bookshelves: Contemporary, Contemporary romance
Pace: Medium
Format: eBook, Novel
Year: 2018

Thoughts

This is a great, fun and sweet contemporary romance. I mean, it’s pretty easy and kind of obvious how it will all turn out. But it’s still a fun adventure. The fact that Sophia and Adrian have been seriously and ridiculously attracted to each other since they were kids just helps to add to the fun nature of this story. There’s a history, but not one that is filled with angst. Which gives the past of knowing one another, without anything to make up for.

Sophia’s constant struggles to strike out on her own and be appreciated by her father drive this story spectacularly. That, partnered with her own insecurities help to show just how much getting in one’s own head can mess with you. Plus, quite frankly, her father is a total knob. I mean, willingly leaving your daughter in a dead end position and taking advantage of her? Purposely throwing a spanner in the works of her relationship? All ridiculously entitled and horrible actions. I love that Sophia is able to overcome this nonsense and find her own happily ever after.

I love how this is a story not just about romance and family romance. But also how three siblings (and their parents) work towards surviving their older brother’s death. Certainly, many of the issues that Sophia struggles to overcome are built around the compromises the family made to deal with this death. And, once Sophia finds her own two feet, it’ll be interesting in the future books to see how her remaining two siblings are able to negotiate the same difficulties.

I love that, alongside Sophia trying to forge her own reality and life, Adrian is actually trying to do the same thing. He’s a little bit less flexible and giving to others than Sophia. But, it’s still nice that both characters are trying to find a way to be better and create a life that they can be proud of. When it all comes together at the end of this story, it’s nice to know that they do succeed. Having said that, Adrian’s narrow-mindedness in his pursuit makes him incredibly callous and kind of cruel in moments.

This was a great romance, not just about how to build a future life together, but also how to encompass your own goals in this. Plus, there are some incredibly insane family dynamics throughout this story. Ones that were very fun to negotiate. And made me grateful for my own dysfunctional clan…

<- More Eva MooreStripped Down ->

Image source: Amazon