Tag Archives: Small town romance

Desperate Choices by Anna Windsor

Book Review, , , ,
Overview
Image result for the mammoth book of hot romance book cover

Title: Desperate Choices
Author: Anna Windsor
In: The Mammoth Book of Hot Romance (Sonia Florens)
Rating Out of 5: 4 (Really good read!)
My Bookshelves: Contemporary, Romantic suspense, Small town romance
Pace: Slow
Format: Short story
Publisher: Robinson
Year: 2011

Thoughts

I actually really enjoyed this romantic suspense story – I wasn’t entirely sure how it was even a romance when I first started it, but I was very quickly pulled in. Enjoying it way more than expected. Particularly because it featured a child being kidnapped – something that particularly leaves a horrifyingly sick feeling in my stomach when I read about it.

I love that Leah will stop at nothing to find her nephew, including risking her own life and career. She also talks about crime in her small town like a slow moving rot – one that needs to be dug out by the roots and destroyed. It’s a reminder of how easy it is to become corrupt when those in power are corrupt, or let the evil slide – I kind of want more butt kicking in this world to find that Leah and her beau managed to start making an impact on all of the crime.

There was so much violence and mayhem throughout this story, which seems to be something I seriously enjoy lately. Plus, there was also some yummy lust to keep your toes curling and lighten some of the chaos. I love that this had a happy ending, but with the ability to have so much more chaos and violence in the future.

<- Crimean Fairy TaleSorcery ->

Image source: London Borough of Bexley

Wilder With You by Serena Bell

Book Review, , , ,
Overview

Title: Wilder With You
Author: Serena Bell
Series: Wilder Adventures #3
Rating Out of 5: 5 (I will read this again and again and again)
My Bookshelves: Contemporary, Contemporary romance, Small town romance
Pace: Medium
Format: eBook, Novel
Year: 2022

Thoughts

I’m absolutely loving Serena Bell and the Wilder brothers. But I did find Jessa and Clark’s to be a little bit sad. I mean, it’s one thing to have hang ups from.past relationships, everyone does. But Clark’s hangup being that his wife died? And then finding out how it happened? It was REALLY extra sad as far as I was concerned.

Jessa’s ex is an absolute douche nugget, and I love how everyone else is just immediately against him. Plus, he’s a great catalyst for the fake dating trope that ends in a little bit of heartbreak. And the one tent. And just all of the happy, fun feelings that this story imparted on me.

Like all good romances, there comes that final hurdle at the end of this that needs to be overcome. I love that for Jessa and Clark, they both are at fault for the breakdown. And they both realise their mistakes before it is too late. Plus, they enjoy gathering around their family and the Wilder siblings definitely help Clark realise his own foolishness.

Alongside this gorgeous romance is the setting of Wilder Adventures. I love that Clark and Jessa originally connect camping in the wilderness. And the many ways in which the Wilder brothers have had to make the wilderness a whole lot more accessible. This is definitely one of those books I’ll be rereading for a sweet comfort read.

<- Walk on the Wilder SideA Little Wilder ->

Image source: Goodreads

My Cone and Only by Susannah Nix

Book Review, , , ,
Overview

Title: My Cone and Only
Author: Susannah Nix
Series: King Family #1
Rating Out of 5: 5 (I will read this again and again and again)
My Bookshelves: Contemporary, Contemporary romance, Small town romance
Pace: Medium
Format: eBook, Novel
Year: 2021

Thoughts

Reading this, it’s really obvious that Wyatt should’ve told Andie his feelings years ago when he first had them. Because, bleugh, so much angst and silliness. Plus, you know, the fact that he made decisions that weren’t actually great for his mental health because of the whole not telling her thing. However, then I wouldn’t have had the pleasure of reading this absolutely amazing story. One that was really, really cute and sweet. And that I enjoyed ridiculously. There’s a reason I’ve been loving Susannah Nix books.

Andie and Wyatt are that perfect friends to lovers, best friend’s brother trope. I love that they grew up together and had feelings for each other pretty much forever. Plus, there’s the whole keeping things secret drama that works perfectly. I mean, it leads to some bone headed moments from Wyatt, but that’s exactly what I love about reading romances – there are some doubtful moments that make you smile and appreciate the battles we all have to face over our own stupidity. Plus, the bone headed moments often remind me that I don’t actually make the dumbest decisions in the whole, wide world. Even if sometimes I don’t make the smartest decisions…

Even though there is a lot of external conflict (hiding the relationship, Andie’s brother, etc.) most of the conflict that threatens the relationship throughout this novel is actually Wyatt’s own issues. His self-confidence, which has been beaten down by his horrible father top the list. That, and the fact that others’ accidentally reinforce this idea. It made it a little bit sad to read in moments when he obviously doesn’t feel that he deserves to be loved and cared for. That, and the fact that his own self-confidence is what’s constantly holding him back in life in general. I love that Andie is quickly able to recognise this and help him find his own way in life and work towards some goals that he actually wants to accomplish.

My Cone and Only is the beginning of the King Family series, and I can’t wait to find out more about the King brothers. Particularly as the King patriarch is an absolute douche. And I look forward to finding out more about how his self-centred nature has negatively impacted his children. And how they all find their own happily ever afters to completely ignore his influence…

<- More Susannah NixCream and Punishment ->

Image source: Goodreads

All I Want by J.H. Croix

Book Review, , , ,
Overview

Title: All I Want
Author: J.H. Croix
Series: Haven’s Bay #1
Rating Out of 5: 4.5 (Amazing, but not quite perfect)
My Bookshelves: Christmas, Contemporary romance, Small town romance
Pace: Medium
Format: eBook, Novel
Year: 2017

Thoughts

There is always something fun and cute about Christmas romances which feature a couple stranded together. They’re pretty much always cute, and seriously fun. The fact that they’re two people with a history, and not just an insta-love story makes it all that much cuter. I loved reading this, and it reminds me why I decided to add as many J.H. Croix books to my shelves as possible when I first got to read their work.

I did find the fact that Audrey admits that she was just “settling” for her fiancé a little bit harsh. I mean, it works out well and gives her the chance to move onto who she really wants. But, I still found the fact that she would settle for someone to be a bit more of a character flaw than I wanted. Although, it was also nice that she didn’t have to spend much of this story marinating in her hurt about her ex’s actions. I mean, seriously, how gross!

For all of Audrey’s flaws, Dallas is a great match for him. Even if he is a bit of a fool. I mean, I always hate it (in reality and on the pages) when people stubbornly stick to their preconceived notions. In the case of Dallas, its his idea that people will be disappointed if he’s with Audrey and that she’s entirely off limits. I mean, come on, I need to stop finding characters I love who just make decisions for the women in their life without talking to them. Or thinking things through.

There was a whole lot of history between the characters wrapped up in this story. I love how Croix is able to give their history, whilst still keeping you in the now and the moment. It made this less of an insta-love story, but a second chance romance. One set at Christmas, enclosed in a small space together. Fantastic and enjoyable. Definitely one I will read again.

<- More J.H. CroixAll I Need ->

Image source: Amazon

Make Me Wilder by Serena Bell

Book Review, , , ,
Overview

Title: Make Me Wilder
Author: Serena Bell
Series: Wilder Adventures #1
Rating Out of 5: 5 (I will read this again and again and again)
My Bookshelves: Contemporary, Contemporary romance, Small town romance
Pace: Medium
Format: eBook, Novel
Year: 2021

Thoughts

Gabe and Lucy, like all of the couples in Bell’s books were really cute and sweet. I love that they both find it really hard to trust (for different reasons) and are a little removed from everyone else. I know quite a few people like this, and it’s a fun adventure to go on with them both learning to open up and trust others again. Not just each other, but their families and loved ones. Lucy in particular is a pleasure to watch actually except friendships and a life beyond the closed off one she’s been living.

This has one of the more sweet Meet Cutes that I’ve read recently – I mean, it’s a couple meeting in the rain and rescuing ducklings together. How is that not ridiculously adorable and sweet? I also love that there’s the instant attraction which then leads them straight to a date of sorts. Which, because this is a contemporary romance novel, is immediately unravelled by the fact that she’s consulting on his company. Against his wishes. This adds that perfect amount of antagonism that doesn’t ensure their happily ever after, but not enough to truly threaten it.

Wilder Adventures is a really cool business idea, and definitely something that I’d personally have an interest in. But, I loved how Lucy encourages the Wilders to actually expand on their business. It was fun reading about a company and experience that I would love to go on, but wouldn’t actually book because I’d be worried about inaccessibility and sexism. Lucy’s view was kind of brilliant at removing that issue. It also perfectly opens up the rest of the series to the remaining brothers. And seeing how they are going to adjust to all of the changes as they find the women that they get their happily ever after.

Make Me Wilder is a great contemporary romance. I mean, it’s a small town romance with rugged mountain men as the male leads. Add to that that Bell writes positive female friendships that don’t pit women against each other. Yes please! Sign me up for more!

<- More Serena BellWalk on the Wilder Side ->

Image source: Goodreads

Hot Under the Collar by Serena Bell

Book Review, , , , ,
Overview

Title: Hot Under the Collar
Author: Serena Bell
Series: Hott Springs Eternal #1.5
In: Chasing Holiday Tail (miscellaneous)
Rating Out of 5: 4.5 (Amazing, but not quite perfect)
My Bookshelves: Contemporary, Contemporary romance, Small town romance
Pace: Fast
Format: eBook, Short story
Year: 2023

Thoughts

Reggie and Ford are a really nice couple, and a great way to introduce me to the world of Hott Springs Eternal, and even the Wilder Adventures series. Both of which I’m now going to dive right into and just… inhale. I mean, Reggie and Ford were just too damn cute, and they were a little bit older too. I enjoy my young adult stories, but sometimes I just need something that is a little bit more mature. With more mature couples who have experienced life.

I love that Reggie and Ford manage to go on their first date… because Reggie bought a puppy. And accidentally also purchased a date with a hot firefighter. The fact that his grandmother kind of orchestrated it all just made me laugh all that much harder. I mean, she is totally the kind of older woman that I want to be when I grow up. I’m sure that most people would read this short story and dream about the hot firefighter, band I totally did. But I also just love Nan all around. I’m looking forward to her popping up more and more in the rest of the Hott Springs Eternal and Wilder Adventures series.

I really enjoyed all of this little romance, but I must admit, the part that I enjoyed the most of it all was the Meet Cute. I mean, Reggie manages to set her house a little bit on fire. And when the sexy firefighter Ford gets there, he sees evidence of her self love and, you know, penis candles. Its definitely not the desired outcome of spending time by yourself. But it was definitely a Meet Cute that had me laughing out loud, to the surprise of my little family…

<- Hott ShotLady and the Scamp ->

Image source: Goodreads

Hott Shot by Serena Bell

Book Review, , , ,
Overview

Title: Hott Shot
Author: Serena Bell
Series: Hott Springs Eternal #1
Rating Out of 5: 5 (I will read this again and again and again)
My Bookshelves: Contemporary, Contemporary romance, Small town romance
Pace: Medium
Format: eBook, Novel
Year: 2023

Thoughts

Hot Under the Collar introduced me to Quinn and Sonya as a couple. Then I realised that I had their story on my shelves. And wow, was I excited! I mean, they seemed like fun secondary characters, but finding out about their romance and falling for one another… this was so damn cute and fun. It’s also a fun start to a whole new series, one that I’m itching for the next one to come out!

The idea of a guy who is tied completely into his scientific endeavours having to work at a beauty salon was a great premise to begin with. Then, there was the actual reality of this – it shows that a lot of our misconceptions about who and what we are are often wrong. It also showed that Quinn didn’t need to conform to Sonya’s idea of kindness and welcoming – he was able to fumble his way to his own style and confidence. One that worked beautifully and highlighted that we are all kind in our own ways. Plus, it was a nice way to dispel that whole stereotypical myth that nerds can’t socialise. We can! But I’m an introvert, and sometimes I just don’t want to.

Sonya only contrasts Quinn superficially. I mean, on the outside, a scientist and a beautician don’t necessarily work, but like with many people, that difference is only skin deep. They are both fiercely independent individuals who strive to make their own way in life. However, I particularly loved how Sonya’s independence acted to her own detriment – she is incredibly strong, but we all need help sometimes. And I loved that the moment when she finally realises that she can ask for help was kind of hilarious. It was definitely one of the most memorable scenes of the book.

The catalyst for this series is the fact that Quinn’s grandfather dies, and, being a bit of an asshole, decides to leave his grandchildren with a challenge each. I absolutely loved this premise. Yeah, it doesn’t reflect nicely upon the old man, but I also like to think that he’s actually doing it to benefit his grandchildren. And, it sets up the rest of this series brilliantly, so now I’m excited to see what happens with the next brother in line for a not-so-grandfatherly challenge.

<- More Serena BellHot Under the Collar ->

Image source: Amazon

Baby, It’s Cold Outside by Kait Nolan

Book Review, , , ,
Overview

Title: Baby, It’s Cold Outside
Author: Kait Nolan
Series: Rescue My Heart #1
Rating Out of 5: 4 (Really good read!)
My Bookshelves: Contemporary, Contemporary romance, Small town romance
Pace: Slow
Format: eBook, Novel
Year: 2018

Thoughts

I read Snowed in With the Ranger before digging into this, but rather than being a prologue, there was a whole lot of overlap. In fact, the first three chapters were just a shortened and slightly different version of the entirety of Snowed in With the Ranger. Which made the start of this a little bit difficult to read. And confusing. But, still enjoyable.

All in all, this was a cute and light romance. And now I want to read more about the world of the Misfit Inn. I mean, it seems like such a picturesque location to travel to. And I always love a good small town romance. There’s just something too cute about being in a small town, with slightly meddling, but well-meaning individuals being around. I look forward to spending some more time delving into this sweet and cute little world.

I did enjoy how this romance resolved itself a little bit differently to what I expected. Instead of them reconnecting shortly after the bit that separates them, it is resolved months afterwards. It was enjoyable to have a storyline that doesn’t just resolve instantly. After all, this was a bit of an insta-love story (which I’m not always a fan of), but I like that it wasn’t an instant fix.

Lastly, it’s good fun that both of the characters in this are writers with writers block. And that they’ve realised that they need balance and a personal life to truly be able to be creative in their professional lives. It’s a good reminder that we all need a little balance in our lives to fulfill our dreams.

<- Snowed in With the RangerWhat I Like About You ->

Image source: Amazon

Snowed in with the Ranger by Kait Nolan

Book Review, , , ,
Overview

Title: Snowed in with the Ranger
Author: Kait Nolan
Series: Rescue My Heart #0.5
Rating Out of 5: 4.5 (Amazing, but not quite perfect)
My Bookshelves: Contemporary, Contemporary romance, Small town romance
Pace: Slow
Format: eBook, Novel
Year: 2019

Thoughts

This is a nice, short novella to start of the Rescue My Heart series. Nothing overly tenuous to read, just easy and enjoyable. It’s also a nice introduction to the couple that are about to take centre stage in Baby, It’s Cold Outside. Admittedly, there is a whole lot of overlap between the two stories, but I did enjoy how this novella fleshes out the beginning and motivations of the primary characters in the technical first story in the series.

I love that this is a story about a novelist trying to escape their deadlines, and an ex-military man trying to escape his memories. I think that the novelist procrastination may be partly based on real experiences. Although I may just be projecting with that theory. However, I know what it’s like to just want to run away and escape from your responsibilities, get a reset on life, and honestly, I think that this is kind of a bit of dream scenario… right up until Ivy almost drives herself off of a mountain.

I was expecting there to be a much more stereotypical novelist and ex-military man. It was a pleasant surprise that this just wasn’t the case for either character. I like that Nolan did take some of the stereotypes you kind of expect (and honestly, I’m reading a romance because of the simplicity of stereotypes), but then turn them into more relatable people. In fact, for someone who is fleeing his demons, the ex-military man is actually incredibly welcoming and accommodating. Likewise, Ivy might be a writer, but she writes about serial killers and has a profiler background – again, not quite the character that you would be expecting.

Against all of this romance and fun of two characters stuck in isolation together, is a great setting. There is something that always strikes me as so romantic about being in an isolated cabin in the snow. Probably because it’s not a situation I’ve ever found myself in. Or honestly ever will. But a great backdrop to a fun story beginning.

<- More Kait NolanBaby, It’s Cold Outside ->

Image source: Kait Nolan