Blog Archives
Breaking Through To You
At the age of 23, Ophelia Jones confronts the challenging ebbs and flows of her romantic life, often finding herself unsettled by a series of unfortunate romantic encounters and an underlying sense of sadness. This narrative takes a twist with the introduction of Treyton, a character whose presence significantly impacts Ophelia’s outlook on love and relationships.
Breaking Through To You, by Alyssa Milani, is a stirring exploration of young adult romance. It delves into Ophelia’s journey as she tries to navigate the intricate web of emotions and relationships that define her quest for love. The novel poses a central question: Will Ophelia’s path lead to the fulfilling love she yearns for, or is she destined for more romantic disappointments?
The book presents a rich tapestry of characters and choices. Ophelia is torn between Henry, who represents a past marred by rejection, and Treyton, who brings a sense of appreciation and care to her life. This conflict drives the narrative, offering a meaningful reflection on love, decision-making, and the search for a true connection. Alyssa Milani showcases her adept storytelling skills, particularly in her portrayal of the complexities inherent in romantic relationships. The narrative resonates with themes of self-discovery and the transformative aspects of love, making it particularly relatable to a young audience. The novel’s blend of vivid romantic scenarios and engaging dialogue positions it as an ideal read for a relaxing winter evening.
For young readers, particularly millennials, who are in search of an uplifting and romantic narrative, Breaking Through To You by Alyssa Milani is a commendable choice. Its blend of emotion, romance, and the journey toward finding love makes it an engaging and enjoyable read.
Pages: 535 | ASIN : B0CKY4HL29
About That Brit
Erin Lynne’s fourth installment in the ‘About That’ series, About That Brit, delivers a delightful contemporary romance that treads the often treacherous path from roommates to lovers. Elena Bianchi, freshly single and in dire need of a new residence, finds herself sharing a living space with the charming British playboy, Jasper Notting, a friend’s acquaintance. The palpable attraction between the two characters is instant, leading to a swift and passionate involvement.
This carefully crafted narrative promises a casual liaison with no strings attached, yet as emotions gradually seep into their arrangement, the duo is thrown into a tangle of dilemmas. Will the commitment-phobic Jasper change his ways for Elena, or will the latter once again find herself seeking a new home?
About That Brit is a heartily enjoyable read, interspersed with humorous elements that elicit outright laughter. One particularly compelling aspect of the narrative is the protagonist Elena, an aspiring writer and publishing industry professional whose career progression aligns perfectly with my personal affinity for such characters. Her collaboration with Jasper on her book idea and her bold decision to abandon a stable job to pursue her dream is inspiring and engaging.
I think the narrative could have benefitted from a more detailed exploration of Elena’s contributions to the book she co-authored with Jasper. The vividly described escapades in London, which see Elena and Jasper soaking in the city’s renowned tourist attractions, offer a refreshing detour in the plot.
While the book is part of a series, it stands its ground as a compelling standalone read. The subtle references to characters and past events pique interest, inciting a desire to delve into the preceding volumes. Lynne masterfully hooks readers with an enticing hint for the next installment towards the end of this narrative.
The author exhibits an innovative command over language, cleverly modifying familiar idioms to convey unique implications – an example being the transformation of “curiosity killed the cat” into “curiosity had gotten the cat,” eliminating negative undertones and altering the phrase’s traditional interpretation.
Lynne’s writing style, a delightful fusion of warmth, humor, and sincerity, is highly commendable. About That Brit is recommended for anyone who relishes a charming, humorous, and heartfelt romantic tale.
Pages: 236 | ASIN : B0C8VHSSN6
Operation Mom – My Plan to Get my Mom a Life and a Man
Operation Mom: My Plan To Get My Mom A Life and a Man by Reenita M. Hora is a captivating comedy-drama that introduces readers to the vibrant world of Ila, a young woman whose ambition for her summer vacation is to revel in her fan-girl adoration for her beloved star, Ali Zafar. However, her well-intentioned yet overly controlling mother, Veena, stands in her way.
In an attempt to reclaim her summer, Ila, with the help of her friend Deepali and Deepali’s boyfriend Dev, orchestrates an ingenious scheme named ‘Operation Mom.’ This involves crafting an array of intriguing dating profiles for Veena across a multitude of platforms, opening up a world of potential suitors. Ila’s newfound role as a matchmaker ushers her and her friends into a series of amusing misadventures as they attempt to sift through an eccentric cast of characters to find Veena’s perfect match.
Simultaneously, the pressure is on as they race against the clock to find Veena’s love interest before Deepali departs for her summer plans. Amid this whirlwind, Ila begins to develop feelings for Dev, adding another layer of complexity to their mission. Will they succeed in their quest before the summer ends? Will Ila find love in the unexpected? The journey unravels through the pages of this delightful read.
What distinguishes this novel is its lighthearted and upbeat tone. The narrative flows effortlessly, making for an easy and enjoyable read. It also vividly portrays Mumbai, immersing the reader in the rich tapestry of its culture, language, and local color. The reader is transported to the bustling streets of Mumbai, feeling the pulse of its people and gaining insights into their everyday lives.
Operation Mom also deftly explores the timeless dynamic between mothers and teenage daughters. It delves into the nuances of their relationship, highlighting how their similarities can often spark conflicts, even as they share a profound bond.
This novel offered an array of perspectives that could be seen as authentic representations of diverse characters, adding to its appeal. There were moments of body positivity that could have been emphasized more, and it would have been rewarding to see the characters embracing all body types with more acceptance. Some scenes may have felt a bit prolonged, but they could also be seen as opportunities to immerse oneself deeper into the narrative’s intricate world. One particular scene included multiple text message conversations, which added a layer of realism, though it would be helpful if the formatting could be tweaked for better readability. Furthermore, the inclusion of specific Indian phrases and references enriched the cultural texture of the book. It would be fantastic if a glossary or index could be provided for those unfamiliar with the culture, enhancing understanding and appreciation of the narrative.
Operation Mom is a heartwarming exploration of Indian culture and the intricacies of mother-daughter relationships, all wrapped up in a humorous narrative. This book is a must-read for those who revel in culturally rich stories and enjoy an engaging romp through the labyrinth of love, family, and friendship.
Pages: 266 | ASIN : B0BBQ6TPXS
16 HANGOVERS
Marcus Winther-John’s novel, 16 Hangovers, offers an engaging and professional take on the painful journey of heartbreak and healing. The story revolves around Marc and Mia Mahler, a couple who decided to end their blissful 20-year marriage, leaving Marc to process his grief and come to terms with the end of his relationship. Through the lens of Marc’s drunken and emotional state, readers are taken on a journey of self-discovery that explores themes of love, heartbreak, and healing.
The author brilliantly sets the story’s tone from the beginning, introducing readers to the main character’s inner turmoil and his struggles to come to terms with the world around him. The use of musical references and guitar jargon adds a unique touch to the story, providing readers with an intriguing insight into the European music scene. The narrative of heavy themes such as heartbreak is made light and bearable, making the book a delightful read. One of the things that I appreciated about the book was its honest portrayal of the breakup process and how it affects individuals. The story offers a refreshing take on the moving-on process, acknowledging that sometimes it’s okay to submit to your hurt and that healing is not always linear. As the story progresses, Marc’s actions and thoughts contradict each other, keeping the reader’s curiosity piqued until the end.
Overall, I highly recommend 16 Hangovers to anyone going through a difficult time in their life. The book is a great motivator to continue choosing love despite the pain and encourages readers to explore their inner selves. I hope this book reaches readers who can relate to the same experience. This book is perfect for music lovers and fans of “Daisy Jones and The Six,” as it intertwines songs and lyrics for the full narrative effect.
Pages: 206 | ASIN: B0C415PM28
My Own Disastrous Dating Life
Loving Whiskey follows a successful bar owner who crosses paths with a busy single dad who challenges her self-imposed love ban. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
I’m a huge fan of romantic comedies and though being a single parent or running a busy is nothing to laugh about, sometimes life throws you a funny bone and gives you something to chuckle over. I can’t really say what in particular inspired the storyline. Maybe it was my own disastrous dating life. What I do know is finding your person, is not always easy, but when you do, it is so worth the wait.
Willow and Colton are interesting and well-developed characters. What were some driving ideals behind their character’s relationship?
I love the idea of friends supporting friends. Being loyal, truthful, independent and honest with each other even if it hurts. That to me is the value of friendship. It doesn’t matter their background, race or how they identify. “Ride or Die” like the saying goes. I believe both Willow and Colton have this trait for both their friends and family and for each other.
What were some themes that were important for you to explore in this book?
Besides the instant attraction between Willow and Colton, I wanted to explore the idea of sun-plots with the story itself. It would give the readers an idea of what the next possible book would be. I also like the idea of “Easter Eggs” hidden within the book…like they do in the movies. Did you catch on to Wes playing scrabble with a certain nurse? Know who the nurse could be? (Wink wink)
What is the next book that you are working on and when will it be available?
I am wrapping up Book 2 of Martini Girl Bar (Luna & Levi) and have started a few scenes on Book 3 (Mila & Beck). I hope to have book 2 out later this year.
I’ve also have two other stand-alones that I am excited about (paranormal rom-com). More on those at a later date.
Author Links: GoodReads | Twitter | Facebook | Website
What’s Not Lost
What’s Not Lost by Valerie Taylor is a heartwarming story about new beginnings. When Kassie O’Callaghan’s abusive ex-husband passes away, she puts the past to rest and gets ready to finally move on to the next chapter of her life. However, as she plans to start a new life, shattering, life-altering news is shared about Kassie, her ex-husband, and events of the past, which can impact Kassie’s ability to move on successfully. As family drama escalates, Kassie wonders if her chance for a new life with her fiancé may be derailed.
This romantic drama is filled with turmoil, heartache, and moments of nail-biting suspense. As Kassie tries to unravel the layers of drama around her, she must decide how to proceed with her upcoming marriage. Will she be happy with her fiancé, welcomed into his family, or will the impact of constant drama destroy any chance she has at a decent life? It’s a story about the complexities of life, with colorful characters and no shortage of excitement.
Taylor does a great job of developing the characters’ personalities, from Kassie’s indecisive, pushover ways and her failed attempts to become more confident to Chris’ habitual cheating and Lexi’s carelessness, creating a page-turning story. As Kassie weighs her options and how her life will be affected by getting entangled in the lives of everyone involved, she must decide if her engagement with Chris is worth the trouble or if she should break it off. While no decision is ideal, the storyline winds through several relationships, focusing on the portrayal of romance and the difficulties that follow.
What’s Not Lost by Valerie Taylor is a story about the ugly side of romance, and new love, when honesty isn’t valued, and tragedy follows. I found this book entertaining, dramatic, and the characters interesting. It’s a well-developed story and is a great option for fans of the romance and drama genre.
Pages: 321 | ASIN : B0BNLQS1DQ
How To Bust A Player
How to Bust a Player is a romantic novel filled with humor. This entertaining novel follows the story of three friends, Myisha, Rochelle, and Shalece, as they contend with the messy side of relationships. Throughout their years of marriage and dating, they have come to know that unfaithful men are just a part of the game. That is why they learned how to bust a player, and now they’re teaching you. The novel is a spin on the 90s film, How to Be a Player. If you enjoy books with themes like Act Like a Lady, Think Like a Man: What Men Really Think About Love, Relationships, Intimacy, and Commitment, this book may be for you.
Author Jerri Smith-Baker starts the story with background information on how men and women operate, particularly in sexual and intimate relationships. The provocative language used in the book is not for the faint of heart. However, Jerri is blunt and honest with her descriptions and assessments.
The story’s plot is captivating, and I wanted to know more about these women and their stories. I found myself connecting with Myisha, Rochelle, and Shalece because they are hard-working women who have had bad experiences dating, and at the end of the day, they are there for each other. I felt like I was reading a play, especially the way the author sets up each of the women’s backstories for the reader.
How to Bust a Player follows three women who experience love, lust, and disappointments, but at the end of the day, they are strong women who just want to be in a committed relationship. I recommend this book to those who want to enjoy a story of friendship and the trials and tribulations of relationships.
Pages: 192 | ISBN: 145209716X
Parts of a Whole: A Pit Bull Love Story
On the surface, Kerry seems to have it all together, a successful photography business, a happy home with her mother, and a son that she adores. In reality, though, she struggles, and mightily. Each day is its own challenge due in no small part to her severe dyslexia and lingering emotional scars from her abusive marriage. At least she finds comfort in the fact that her son, himself struggling with autism, seems to be doing well with his unofficial therapy dog, Angel, and the routine that they all share. That is until Kerry’s mom invites a tenant to live in their guest home. With Noah’s arrival, life suddenly becomes much more complicated, albeit also more interesting.
Described as a “pit bull love story,” Parts of a Whole by Janet Franks Little is a charming story that combines various pieces of everyday life in a way that is both relatable and engaging. Kerry spends her days in a routine that accommodates her son and fulfills her creative vision as a freelance photographer. Living with her disability makes a routine as vitally necessary as her son’s dog Angel, the adopted pit bull that seems to share a bond with the boy. The story repeatedly returns to the bonds people form with their pets, stressing how they become full-fledged family members.
Despite exploring a variety of heavy subjects such as emotional and physical abuse, PTSD, and complicated family relationships, the author does a great job of keeping the book from ever feeling dark and emotionally exhausting. Kerry’s relationship with her mother, India, is a beautiful representation of the mother / daughter bond that sustains so many young women in their lives. While Noah’s character comes off as stiff and stereotypical, he still has enough depth to create interest.
Healing is a huge theme in Parts of a Whole, as Kerry slowly begins to realize that she is more than just a part and accepts that she isn’t defined by her disability. As she regains the confidence her ex-husband stole from her, she finds the courage to do and say more of what she actually wants and sees that growth in her son at the same time. All in all, it’s a heartwarming story that never suffers from its own weight.
It took no time at all to get completely invested in Kerry’s life, and with each new secret she revealed, the feeling of knowing her personally only increased. There were parts that I felt were convenient and picture-perfect, but sometimes that’s exactly what you need. Parts of a Whole: A Pit Bull Love Story is a stirring and heartfelt romance novel that will leave you feeling good about life.
Pages: 332 | ASIN : B09Z7DBG7W
