Review: Star Bright by Susannah Nix

She’s an A-list Hollywood starlet. He’s a gossip reporter. Sleeping with the enemy has never been sweeter…

Kimberleigh Cress didn’t get to be one of the hottest young actresses in Hollywood without learning how to protect herself. Rule number one? Don’t show weakness. Ever. Especially not in front of the press.

So when a sleazy tabloid reporter comes upon her during a vulnerable moment, the last thing she expects is kindness.

Sexy, charming, and surprisingly thoughtful, Spencer Devlin isn’t at all who Kimberleigh thought he was. After their fateful encounter, she can’t seem to stay away from him—even though she knows she should.

Spencer never expected to share an unlikely connection with the spoiled starlet who hates his guts. With the face of a goddess and an attitude to match, Kimberleigh Cress is one ice queen he’d love to melt.

Now that she’s gotten under his skin, he’ll do anything to keep her in his life. Or will he?

Review

I enjoyed this book way too much. It was fun, sweet, and adorable. I don’t think I’ve ever read a book about an actress and a gossip reporter. It such an interesting dynamic because one person can ruin their entire life if they released a story about their partner.

From the beginning, Kimberleigh and Spencer had this complicated relationship. He had interviewed her once and asked a pretty rude question. Since then, it had been hostile between them until he catches her in a vulnerable moment.

At first, I was certain that him seeing her like that would complicate their relationship more and make her hate him more, and then we would get to the lover’s part. But I was completely wrong. It was a sweet and a human moment between them. It doesn’t take long for them to get together after that. He owned up to his mistake. And proves that isn’t the type of person he is. It did feel very insta-love. However, they were too cute that all of that could be ignored. Both are funny and witty characters. And it’s hard not to root from them in the beginning.

Final Analysis

Star Bright was fun and cute. It’s not too angsty, with excellent characters and romance. 

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Review: What If It's Wonderful by Nicole Zasowski

Summary

Don’t spend your life practicing disappointment and rehearsing tragedy when you can experience God’s gift of joy and celebration today.

Author and marriage and family therapist Nicole Zasowski knows that it’s difficult to trust joy and find the courage to celebrate when you have endured seasons of disappointment and despair. When God has been your faithful anchor in the storm, does joy then leave you unmoored? Nicole reminds us that we can stay tethered to the hope of Christ in seasons of celebration, because even joyful days hold the learning, growth, and intimate encounters with Jesus that our hearts crave.

What If It’s Wonderful? offers a new perspective. With a compelling psychological and spiritual case for the importance of embracing joy and celebration, even when it feels scary, it will help you

• identify common barriers and hesitancies to experiencing joy, debunk their lies, and overcome your fears,

• confront toxic messages you have received about joy as you learn to see celebration as an avenue of growth and intimacy with God,

• approach life with an expectant heart, a receptive posture, and courage to trust God’s good gifts, and

• stay emotionally healthy and spiritually alive in seasons of joy and celebration.

Things don’t always have to be hard to find God and to stay close to him. Release your fears and accept his beautiful gift of joy and celebration.

Review

For those of you who are faith based that have faced personal disappointment and embracing joy, this book will encourage and challenge your intrapersonal consciousness about yourself. The trajectory of consistent disappointment can be crippling when trying to be optimistic but with some challenging commentary, What If It's Wonderful hopes to give the readers some insight to breaking the cycle and having the courage to embrace joy.

We all go through trials and tribulations and for some more than others, it's hard to expect or embrace joy when things to work out over and again. A great takeaway from the book is through her shared personal experiences, professional insight and influences from her faith, she tries to help you break down those fears and embrace a future where you can receive joy. For use to evolve, no matter how bad things are, we can't allow it to define us or our future. For us to grow, we have to quiet the negative voice that we don't deserve joy and trust and be open to receive.

Overall, I thought the book was engaging from the perspective of what she wanted to accomplish with her book. Her experiences are relatable and her insight gives you something to reflect upon for your own experiences. So if you are faith based and are struggling with this topic, this will be a book that you might want to consider checking out.

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Review: Ivy by Willa Nash

From author Willa Nash comes a unique new adult romance with opulence and intrigue, perfect for fans of Gossip Girl and Pretty Little Liars.

Can you keep a secret?

Aston University might be teeming with prestigious and wealthy students, but the currency on campus isn’t their millions. It’s their secrets. And the three women living at Clarence Manor are filthy rich in lies and deceit.

Two of the roommates have played this game for years. Some would consider them masters of a ruse. The third might be new to Aston, but she’s no stranger to secrets.

Cassia, the outsider. Elora, the ice princess. And Ivy, the puppet master.

Who’s hiding the ugliest truths? We’ll let you be the judge.

Go ahead. Whisper your confessions in our ear.

We promise not to tell.

Review

Ivy was a gem that I found from an Instagram ad. And I hadn’t really known what to expect.  And within a couple of pages, I realized that it was a great decision. Ivy felt like a juicy drama series that you can’t stop watching.

The story is told in three POVS—Ivy, Elora, and Cassia. Three college students who are roommates in a manor owned by Ivy’s family. All three of them have secrets. And I was hooked watching them all unfold. Ivy is the ringleader. The one who craves to learn more about everyone and wants power. Elora is her best friend and watches from the sidelines. And Cassia is the newcomer.

I really enjoyed all the characters and their love interest—Zain, Edwin, and Tate. All of them had a unique path and characterization. And I think for me, the biggest issue I had with this book is that I wish the book was a trilogy. The book is like 500 pages, and I wanted more. And I think that with each character getting their own book, they would have gotten the time they each deserved.

Final Analysis

Ivy is an addictive, angsty, and intense ride that left me craving more. 

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Review: Those Three Little Words by Meghan Quinn

From USA Today and Amazon Charts bestselling author Meghan Quinn comes a brand new romantic comedy about a one-night stand gone completely wrong. Laugh out loud and steamy with a heart-stopping happily ever after.

I knocked up my best friend's sister.

Figured I would get straight to the point because how it happened is a mere snippet of the story I have to tell. The real meat and potatoes is what happened after.

Let's start with how she decided to inform me and Pacey the news . . . together. Imagine that nightmare. I was going into what I thought was a hockey marketing meeting and then BAM! I'm going to be a dad and my best friend/teammate is attempting to imprint my face with his fist.

It wasn't pretty.

Threats were tossed around, friendships were revoked, and then I was marched up to her apartment, suitcases in hand, and forced to live with her so I could take care of her every need. Given how much I've pined for the girl, you would think that wouldn't be a hardship. Wrong.

This is my one shot to win my teammate back. Pacey is the only family I've got, so hooking up with his sister isn't a mistake I can make twice . . . despite the fact that she's pregnant with my child.

But with every mood swing, every pair of pants that doesn't fit right, and every late night run to find the perfect donut, I'm finding it harder and harder not to fall for my best friend's little sister.

Especially when she kisses me...

Review 

Three Little Words was fine. It’s a mostly enjoyable read, with a solid romantic story and great pacing. This is a hefty book. roughly around 500 pages. And before reading, I was a little confused why it was so long, and maybe a little scared that most of it would be filled with unnecessary plot lines and excessive drama. But like mentioned before, it’s nicely paced. It didn’t feel that long.

The characters were very awkward with each other in the beginning. However, I don’t think that harmed the romance at all. Given the circumstances, it worked, and I liked seeing them get more comfortable with each other. And open up more--- i.e. Eli. He had a tragic past. And I think what I liked the most about him is that yes it did impact him. but it didn’t harden him. He was still easy going and willing to help Penny in any chance he could.

And speaking of Penny—I wish we would have spent some time with her doing her job. In the first couple of chapters of the book, she mentions that she is a social media coordinator for the hockey team that her brother and Eli plays for. I was most excited to see more of that, but it didn’t happen. at all. I was at least expecting a cute/funny scene with her directing Eli on TikTok.

Truthfully, I found Penny’s older brother to be very overbearing to the point where it hurt his liability. I get that he was trying to be a protective older brother, but he literally did the most at times, and butted into their relationship so much in the beginning.

And speaking of supporting characters, I will say that it was a little confusing in terms of the name. It felt like everyone in the book had a name that started with “P” and because of that I often wasn’t sure who Penny’s brother was and who Eli’s other friend was.

Final Thoughts

I found Those Three Little Words the most interesting when it wasn’t trying to be funny or a romantic comedy. Those heartfelt moments stood out to me more than the comedic moments.

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Review: Sunday at the Sunflower Inn by Jodi Thomas

Summary

A slice of Americana delivered with her characteristic warmth, endearing characters, and authentic Texan flair, the fourth Honey Creek novel by New York Times and USA Today bestselling author Jodi Thomas brings a sense of nostalgia to the town as some its older residents set out on a quest to realize dreams they long ago gave up on. Soon it seems the idea of chasing second chances is contagious as the rest of Honey Creek joins their journey…

Fans of Carolyn Brown and B.J. Daniels will adore this slice of Americana delivered with warmth, endearing characters, and authentic Texan flair. The legendary New York Times and USA Today bestselling author brings a sense of nostalgia to the town in this delightful journey of second chances.

Jessica Ann McKenzie—“Jam” to everyone in Honey Creek—has fulfilled her dream of owning the best restaurant for miles around. Serving candlelit dinners to every couple in town on Valentine’s Day is a reminder of another dream, one she’s just about given up on. Until, that very night, Sergeant Tucson Smith clambers out of the muddy river and onto her land, bringing the promise of something they’ve both been searching for.
 
When McCoy Mason crashes on Interstate 45, he doesn’t just bust up his Mustang, his leg, and his relationship. He also loses his prospects of a job and apartment in Houston. Honey Creek, home to his estranged grandfather, offers a temporary respite, a place to recover before moving on again. After all, what permanent use could a town so picture-perfect have for a man like him?
 
At sixty-seven, Charles H. Winston III lives by order and routine. One of his most cherished rituals is a regular lunch date with three lovely ladies at the Honey Creek Café, including the very proper Miss Lilly Lambert. But it’s not too late to surprise the whole town—or himself—by seizing a chance for a once-in-a-lifetime adventure. And there’s no better season than spring, when the warm breeze blowing in from the Brazos River brings fresh hope and second chances to those who need them most . . .

Review

Sunday at the Sunflower Inn is the fourth book in the Honey Creek series. There is something special about this series that pulls you in and doesn't let you go. In this book, we are visited by some familiar friends and are introduced to some new ones that you will fall in love with.

One of my favorite settings in the book is the Honey Creek cafe. This is such a special place that leaves you feeling warm and invited. We had fun with Piper and her aunts early on so now we get the pleasure of getting to know Jessica Ann Mackensie or as everyone else calls her, Jam. I really liked her character. Her character will resonate with many women out there. She is one of those who take care of everyone but herself gals. She doesn't see how great she is. In the process of working hard to accomplish her right now, she has had her sights on a dream that she hasn't made a reality. She hasn't made the time to do what she really loves especially when it comes to the love department. After serving her guests on Valentine's Day, it became all of a reminder of how she is going to be old and alone. Her enthusiasm about love sort of gets challenged when an unexpected visitor comes crashes in her world.

We first meet Sargeant Tuscan in the beginning. He is one of the older brothers of Pecos. He didn't have a great background but what he became and his love for his brother really make him such a lovable person. I really loved the storyline between these two characters. These two characters deserve to be loved. As their story unfolds, you can't help but root for their hea.

Thrown in we get a little bit of young love to be. Melody is an innocent young lady whose parents micromanage her life. They have everything planned out and that doesn't include a dating life for her. She meets a young man a little older than her and does her best to keep it a secret. When her secret gets revealed, decisions are made that change the course of their lives.

There are two storylines that I absolutely loved in the book. One featured McCoy Mason. McCoy Mason came to Honey Creek after losing everything from an accident. With no roots or direction for his life, he takes a chance on Honey Creek to find his grandfather that he never met. The dialogue between his more bark than bite grandfather had me laughing out loud. These moments were probably some of the best moments in the book. I love how he came here with no expectations but found so much that he didn't think he deserved.

I was so happy we get to experience the journey of Mr. Winston. The love an compassion that he has for other people come back and give him the blessings that he deserve. The direction that we see his life go is so sweet and fulfilling. His storyline with Lilly is so endearing and makes your heart smile. He is such a gentleman and allowing his second chance shows that the potential of love is ageless.

Overall, another wonderful book in the series. I was nervous about if there was another one coming in the series but there is and I can't wait to see who we get to meet next in Honey Creek. If you haven't read the series yet, start from the beginning. This book could be read as a standalone but for the sake of continuity and you don't want to miss out, start from book one. If you are a fan of the series, look for the next book to come out in Spring 2023.

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Review: Dinner on Primrose Hill by Jodi Thomas

Summary

This delightful and touching new novel from the New York Times bestselling author of dozens of treasured romances returns readers to the picturesque Texas town of Honey Creek—a place where friendship and warm welcomes can be relied on, and love always finds a way. In this heartwarming new story, an Army Ranger who’s been hurt before may finally find the woman who can mend his broken heart.

Benjamin Monroe is pretty sure how his life will play out. He’ll continue teaching chemistry in his small college, and spend his free time biking through the valley. Eventually, he’ll retire to putter around in his garden and greenhouse.

His colleague, Virginia Clark, is not one for routines. She’s chatty, spontaneous, and bubbly, and before Benjamin realizes what happened, she’s talked him into collaborating on a research project—studying the mating habits of college students. Virginia knows her desire to work with Benjamin is motivated by more than the potential prize money . . . and hopes he might not be quite as indifferent as he seems to be.

Ketch Kincaid, one of Benjamin’s star students, returned to college after serving in the army. He needs something to get his mind off his recent breakup and collecting research data might do it. And there’s another distraction on the horizon—a woman who looks like she, too, knows about heartache.

Soon enough, their project, “The Chemistry of Mating,” is gaining notoriety. Friends, neighbors . . . the whole town has become involved. But no matter what the data determines, one conclusion seems inescapable: love follows its own rules . . .

Review

Out of the series so far, this is my favorite book. We are introduced to some new folks whose lives truly lock you in. There was an extra something to this book that stands out more than the rest.

Benjamin and Virginia, are probably one of my favorite pairs in the book to read. These two are such an odd pair but embody the cliché that opposites attract. Benjamin, with his wound up extremely tight personality and with Virigina's free spirited independence, it's hilarious seeing them together. At first I didn't like Benjamin but there is a backstory that when revealed, softened that opinion and make him redeemed. The banter between them had me rolling over laughing at moments. My commentary can't do justice to the dialogue between them but they were really fun to read.

Ketch and Tuesday give me vibes like Pecos and Kerri. Two lost people who find comfort with each other. Their brokenness mended and life brought them where they were meant to be in their lives.

Hank and Millie, well this was a sweet pair. Hank, (Harrison) and Amelia (Millie) are an unlikely pair. They had an unspoken understanding bringing two loners together as one. Their broken childhood and past bond them together.

With a little suspense thrown in, we get revisited by some familiar faces including sheriff Leroy and Colby.

Overall, this was a really good read. I really felt more connected to the characters and are feeling at home in this series. With this group of folks, there is a relatable personal connection to them. There were a mixed of moments that were funny and tender moments that really touch you. I'm really looking forward to the next book and can't wait to see what's in store for Honey Creek.

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