MOVIE Review – The Idea of You

Wake up! Call in sick to work. Spend your entire day on the couch with a pint of ice cream and a bottle of wine. The Idea of You movie releases today! (May 2, 2024!)

Thanks to Amazon Studios and Robinne Lee, I was able to catch an advance screening of the Idea of You movie. I had mixed emotions going into the theater tonight. Let me first say that I have always had a love/hate relationship with this book by the incredibly talented Robinne Lee. Back in 2018, I had to read the book in stops and starts, a mix of Kindle and audiobook. And it became very apparent to me that the book, while heavily featuring romantic themes, was NOT a romance! I loved the characters. I loved the premise. I loved the writing. But, I have always been gutted by the ending. So much so that my little brain has created an alternate ending that turns this great book into a true Romance and the characters will forever live in that space in my imagination.

So I went into the theater tonight fairly low expectations. I really thought I would come out of the movie and think “meh that was OK.” There has been a bit of controversy in the book world surrounding the film. There were questions about casting, wardrobe, screenwriting, all of the usual grumps and grumbles that accompany a beloved-book to film adaptation. I was apprehensive but withholding judgment.

I am so excited to say, I was completely blown away! This movie was absolutely fantastic. The emotion and conflict of the story played out on the screen, but the banter, humor and romance was truly brought to life. I think Ann Hathaway‘s performance is stunning. She truly becomes Solene. Nicholas Galitzine is an absolutely brilliant actor. His range of emotions from humor to sadness to love to playfulness to brokenhearted are on full display. On top of that, he’s also an incredible singer, performer and musician truly bringing the Hayes Campbell character to life. For years, I’ve been a part of debates about “who would be your Hayes Campbell?“ For me the question is finally answered and it will forever be Nicholas Galitzine.

What truly puts this movie over the top for me is the ending. The movie brings the ending that nearly every book reader has wished and dreamed for. Inside the theater, my friend and I cried and laughed and swooned and walked out completely satisfied and thoroughly enthralled.

I’m telling you – “don’t wait to watch this movie.” It is funny, sweet, sad, hopeful, swoon-y, and definitely spicy. Lovers of the book will be pleased to see so many scenes play out on the screen. But, even if you didn’t read the book, I’m certain the movie will be completely entertaining.

I was incredibly impressed with Amazon Studios’ adaptation of Red, White and Royal Blue. After seeing the care and skill, they applied to another of my favorite books, I’m ready for many many more book to movie collabs.

I’m certain reviews of the movie, especially from the diehard book lovers will be mixed. But for me, the movie is an absolute hit! What are you waiting for? Check it out now on Amazon Prime!

Cheers, BFF K. Signature with a pink wineglass

 

 

 

PS: two older ladies in the row behind us had obviously NOT read the book. They were practically clutching their pearls with the number of sex scenes in the movie. We didn’t bother to tell them about the book! I’m guessing they would have been well and truly scandalized .

2023 Besties – Best Books of 2023

black background with gold polka dots 2023 in gold puffy balloons with the BFF Book Blog logo in the 0 spot. Book covers for the top 10 books are listed and then Besties is in the gold balloon letters at the bottom of the image.

 

It was a fantastic reading year, here are my Top 10 books for the year!

(As an Amazon Associate, I may earn from qualifying purchases.)

#1 – Lessons in Chemistry by Bonnie Garmus

This is one of my most recommended books of the year. Everything about it is brilliant – premise, characters, plot, emotion. It is outstanding! (And the Apple+ TV Show is fantastic!)

 

Black background with gold polka dots. 2023 Besties at top and bottom with the BFF Book Blog logo as the 0. Gold balloon letters and #1 and the cover of Lessons in Chemistry by Bonnie Garmus.

#2 – Romantic Comedy by Curtis Sittenfeld

This book was an out-of-nowhere-surprise! I received the book as part of a holiday book exchange from a stranger and devoured it! It’s brilliant, fun, funny, great banter, solid characters and social commentary. It’s a really enjoyable read!

 

Black background with gold polka dots. 2023 Besties at top and bottom with the BFF Book Blog logo as the 0. Gold balloon letters and #2 and the cover of Romantic Comedy by Curtis Sittenfeld

 

#3 – Fourth Wing by Rebecca Yarros

This was another surprise. I picked it up on a whim since I had seen everyone talking about it! Before I had finished, I owned it on audio (so I could hear the pronunciations), Kindle (so I could see how things were spelled) and hard cover (because I need it on my bookshelf.) And, I had pre-ordered all of the formats of Iron Flame. The worst part about this series is having to wait for each book to be released. But, I absolutely found this series to be worth the hype!

 

Black background with gold polka dots. 2023 Besties at top and bottom with the BFF Book Blog logo as the 0. Gold balloon letters and #3 with the cover of Fourth Wing by Rebecca Yarros

 

#4 – Smoke Series by Abbi Glines

This series was a highlight for my reading year. 10 books released this year and I read every single one of them. This series is not available on audio so I actually read each book and most in just two or three days. I loved every character and every story line. This series is steamy and highly implausible, but I’m here for all of it. These are incredible escapes from reality. They’re really some of my favorite reads of the year! [Series order: Smokeshow, Fireball, Smoke Bomb, Straight Fire, Firecracker, Whiskey Smoke, Smokin’ Hot, Burn, Scorched and Ashes]

 

Black background with gold polka dots. 2023 Besties at top and bottom with the BFF Book Blog logo as the 0. Gold balloon letters and #4 with 3 bookcovers for the Smoke Series by Abbi Glines.

 

#5 – True Love Experiment by Christina Lauren

Such a fun read. It’s witty and clever with a unique premise and great banter and steam. It reminded me how much I enjoy Christina Lauren’s writing. I’ve downloaded several of their more recent works because they’re just consistently enjoyable and well written. This great story is the perfect example of their talents.

 

Black background with gold polka dots. 2023 Besties at top and bottom with the BFF Book Blog logo as the 0. Gold balloon letters and #5 and the cover of True Love Experiment by Christina Lauren

#6 – Yours Truly by Abby Jimenez

Abby Jimenez has become an absolute one-click, insta-buy for me. I don’t care what the synopsis is, I completely trust that she’s going to deliver a fantastic story. Her characters are real and flawed and endearing. There are little gems of truth and insight tucked in the pages and each story is emotional even bordering on inspirational. Yours Truly is an absolutely fantastic book!

 

Black background with gold polka dots. 2023 Besties at top and bottom with the BFF Book Blog logo as the 0. Gold balloon letters and #6 and the cover of Yours Truly by Abby Jimenez.

#7 – The Seven Year Slip by Ashley Poston

Every story Poston crafts is a mix of reality and whimsy. The Seven Year Slip is magical and heartwarming. The main characters are just delightfully real and flawed and so engaging. You’ll be rooting for their HEA! While I didn’t love this story quite as much as The Dead Romantics, this is still a terrific story well worth a read.

 

Black background with gold polka dots. 2023 Besties at top and bottom with the BFF Book Blog logo as the 0. Gold balloon letters and #7 with the cover of The Seven Year Slip by Ashley Poston.

 

#8 – Ice Planet Barbarians by Ruby Dixon

I know I’m so so late to the blue alien party. But, I needed a pallet cleanser this year and picked this up on a whim. And, oh man, I get the appeal. This series is insane. It is SO steamy which is just not what you are expecting from a blue alien sci-fi tome. But, it is definitely something fun and different. I liked these stories so much that I finally broke down and got Kindle Unlimited so I can read the whole series! It’s not going to be everyone’s cup of tea, but if you like it, you’re REALLY going to like it!

 

Black background with gold polka dots. 2023 Besties at top and bottom with the BFF Book Blog logo as the 0. Gold balloon letters and #8 with the cover of Ice Planet Barbarians by Ruby Dixon.

 

#9 – Happy Place by Emily Henry

This book is just a delight. I love the cast of supporting characters. The main female character wasn’t my favorite, but the rest of the characters more than made up for it and the end is delightful. If you’ve read Henry’s prior work, this has her signature style and is a fantastic book!

 

Black background with gold polka dots. 2023 Besties at top and bottom with the BFF Book Blog logo as the 0. Gold balloon letters and #9 and the cover of Happy Place by Emily Henry.

 

#10 – The Chestnut Springs Series by Elsie Silver

I had never read any books by Elsie Silver and she was recommended in a FB reader’s group. And once I read the first book, I was hooked. I love her writing style – similar to Melanie Harlow and Devney Perry. And the characters are so engaging. These stories are addictive and I fly through them. If you love good contemporary romances, these are a solid choice! And, the rodeo/rural feel of this series is like a warm hug. [Series includes Flawless, Heartless, Powerless, Reckless and Hopeless]

 

Black background with gold polka dots. 2023 Besties at top and bottom with the BFF Book Blog logo as the 0. Gold balloon letters and #10 and the covers of the first 3 books in the Chestnut Springs Series by Elsie Silver.

 

I read so many terrific books this year! While I didn’t post many reviews and was basically MIA from this platform, you can always find my recent reads by giving me a follow on Goodreads. AND, you’re always welcome to send me a Facebook Messenger through the Blog Facebook page if you’re in a slump or you are looking for something specific.

I hope you had as much reading success in 2023 and I’m wishing you all the very best books and more in 2024!

Cheers, BFF K. Signature with a pink wineglass

 

Review – Happy Singles Day by Ann Marie Walker

Single and proud of it! Oh, oops…

As a Certified Professional Organizer, everything in Paige Parker’s world is as it should be. Perfect apartment, perfect office, perfect life. And now, the perfect vacation planned to honor Singles Day. After all, what’s better than celebrating her pride in being single? Because who needs a man anyway? They have zero taste in quality television, leave the toilet seat up, and sleep with your best friend. No thanks. Her life is fine just the way it is.

As the owner of a now-dormant bed & breakfast, Lucas Croft’s life is simple and quiet. It’s only him and his five-year-old daughter, which is just the way he likes it. Because who needs a woman anyway? They nag you to clean up your stuff, want the toilet seat put down, and expect the dishes to be done the same day the meal is cooked. No thanks. His life is fine just the way it is.

But when Paige books a room that Lucas’ well-intentioned sister listed without his knowledge, their two worlds collide. If they can survive the week together, they just might discover exactly what they’ve both been missing.

Buy Happy Singles Day on Amazon today!

 

BFF K’s Review of Happy Singles Day

This is the sweetest story! Ann Marie Walker has created absolutely realistic, believable characters, and plopped them in a stunning setting. Happy Singles Day is just the right mix of emotionally bruised hero and heroine, cute kid, puppies and cake and this story is an absolute dream to read!

There is tension and emotion and some really weighty things that both Paige and Lucas carry in their past. But, being thrown together to ride out a storm in a questionable B&B leaves them little choice but to get to know one another. It’s a delicate dance but they perform it beautifully discovering so much about themselves, each other and their capacities for both love and change.

The build up is great, but most of the steamy-ish scenes are pretty much fade to black. Though they certainly pack enough emotion that you don’t really miss the steam. The characters and settings are unique and lovingly-well-developed! I enjoyed Happy Singles Day immensely and highly recommend it for a Valentine’s Day read or any day you want to get lost in good story! ❤️

 

An advance copy of this book was received. Receipt of this copy did not impact the content or independence of this review.

About the Author

Ann Marie Walker is the author of nine novels, ranging from romantic suspense to romantic comedy. She’s a fan of fancy cocktails, anything chocolate, and ’80s rom-coms. Her superpower is connecting any situation to an episode of Friends, and she thinks all coffee cups should be the size of a bowl. You can find her at AnnMarieWalker.com, where she would be happy to talk to you about alpha males, lemon drop martinis, or Chewbacca, the Morkie who is kind enough to let her sit on his couch. Ann Marie attended the University of Notre Dame and currently lives in Chicago.

Review – Simmer Down by Sarah Smith

In this finger-licking good rom-com, two is the perfect number of cooks in the kitchen.

Nikki DiMarco knew life wouldn’t be all sunshine and coconuts when she quit her dream job to help her mom serve up mouthwatering Filipino dishes to hungry beach goers, but she didn’t expect the Maui food truck scene to be so eat-or-be-eaten—or the competition to be so smoking hot.

But Tiva’s Filipina Kusina has faced bigger road bumps than the arrival of Callum James. Nikki doesn’t care how delectable the British food truck owner is—he rudely set up shop next to her coveted beach parking spot. He’s stealing her customers and fanning the flames of a public feud that makes her see sparks.

The solution? Let the upcoming Maui Food Festival decide their fate. Winner keeps the spot. Loser pounds sand. But the longer their rivalry simmers, the more Nikki starts to see a different side of Callum…a sweet, protective side. Is she brave enough to call a truce? Or will trusting Callum with her heart mean jumping from the frying pan into the fire?

Purchase Here

Amazon

Barnes & Noble     Books A Million     Bookshop     Hudson Booksellers     IndieBound     Powell’s     Target     Walmart

 

BFF K’s Review of Simmer Down

So…..now I just want to fly to Hawaii and eat all of the delicious food. I mean, if we’re honest, I always want to do that, but this book really put me in the mood for a culinary adventure mixed with a little romance.

Nikki and Callum are the epitome of enemies-to-lovers. Their bitter feud covers up a really intense attraction….for awhile. When they find themselves thrown together they discover that they can really heat things up in the kitchen and the bedroom. And, the reader is lucky to be along for the ride.

Callum is a terrific Hero. He’s caring and reasonable and lets Nikki know how special she is. Nikki is complicated. She listens to Callum but doesn’t always hear him. She gets in her own way, a lot. But, you will still root for her and Callum to figure their s@#$ out!

I adore Nikki’s mom and Callum’s brother. They add depth and spice to the story. But, I can’t forget about the real star of the story – the food! Oh the food! The description of countless dishes and their preparation will make your mouth water and have you searching for local restaurants to devour these delicacies. You will literally want to lick up every last drop of this story!

An advance copy of this book was received. The reviewer purchased the audiobook copy. Receipt of the advance copy did not impact the content or independence of this review.

 

About the Author

 

Sarah Smith is a copywriter-turned-author who wants to make the world a lovelier place, one kissing story at a time. Her love of romance began when she was eight and she discovered her auntie’s stash of romance novels. She’s been hooked ever since. When she’s not writing, you can find her hiking, eating chocolate, and perfecting her lumpia recipe. She lives in Bend, Oregon, with her husband and adorable cat Salem.

 

 

Review – In a Holidaze by Christina Lauren

THE INSTANT NEW YORK TIMES BESTSELLER

One Christmas wish, two brothers, and a lifetime of hope are on the line for hapless Maelyn Jones in In a Holidaze, the quintessential holiday romantic novel by Christina Lauren, the New York Times bestselling author of The Unhoneymooners.

It’s the most wonderful time of the year…but not for Maelyn Jones. She’s living with her parents, hates her going-nowhere job, and has just made a romantic error of epic proportions.

But perhaps worst of all, this is the last Christmas Mae will be at her favorite place in the world—the snowy Utah cabin where she and her family have spent every holiday since she was born, along with two other beloved families. Mentally melting down as she drives away from the cabin for the final time, Mae throws out what she thinks is a simple plea to the universe: Please. Show me what will make me happy.

The next thing she knows, tires screech and metal collides, everything goes black. But when Mae gasps awake…she’s on an airplane bound for Utah, where she begins the same holiday all over again. With one hilarious disaster after another sending her back to the plane, Mae must figure out how to break free of the strange time loop—and finally get her true love under the mistletoe.

Jam-packed with yuletide cheer, an unforgettable cast of characters, and Christina Lauren’s trademark “downright hilarious” (Helen Hoang, author of The Bride Test) hijinks, this swoon-worthy romantic read will make you believe in the power of wishes and the magic of the holidays.

Purchase it today

More links listed below after author bios!

 

BFF K’s Review of In a Holidaze

In a Holidaze is a classic Christina Lauren novel: endearing, clever, great characters, witty banter and a unique storyline that keeps you wondering what’s coming next. This novel has upbeat charm and reminded me of their earlier novels. I enjoyed it immensely!

I’m sure every review of this book will note that it’s Groundhog Day meets Christmas. But, it still needs to be said. And it is also delightfully sweet and fun. Thank goodness Mae works out the clues and only jumps back in time a handful of times so the story moves forward quickly. The bulk of the story is a darling friends-to-lovers romp that is entertaining and heartwarming.

I love the emphasis of chosen family in the story. The entwined families and their shared lives enhance the holiday aspect of the story, but it’s not overwhelmingly-Christmasy. They’re a crazy crew I would love to spend a holiday with them AND I would love to know who the other brother ends up with!

If you’re struggling (because 2020) and feeling overwhelmed or just looking to jumpstart the holiday spirit, you should definitely pick up a copy of In a Holidaze! It’s a perfect gift for you!

 

 

 

An advance copy of this book was received. The reviewer purchased the audiobook copy. Receipt of the advance copy did not impact the content or independence of this review.

 

About the Authors

NEW YORK TIMES, USA TODAY AND #1 INTERNATIONAL BESTSELLING AUTHORS


Christina Lauren is the combined pen name of long-time writing partners/besties/soulmates/brain-twins Christina Hobbs and Lauren Billings. The coauthor duo writes both Young Adult and Adult Fictio
n, and together has produced fourteen New York Times bestselling novels. Their books have been translated into 30+ languages.

You can find them online at ChristinaLaurenBooks.com or at @seeCwrite (Christina), @LolaShoes (Lauren), or @ChristinaLauren on Twitter.

 

More purchase links!

Review – Keeping Score by Alyssa Kale


One more careless mistake and I could lose the career I’ve worked my entire life for—I could lose everything. My last year has been wrapped in one scandal after another, and I am done.

Done with the jersey chasers.

And done with women… for the time being.

Or so I thought.

Sophie Thomas, a local magazine photographer, is my undoing. She’s bright, she’s funny, and her very being just draws me in. I know I need to stay away, but there’s something about her—a sadness almost—that keeps pulling me back to her.

Maybe I’m not quite as done with everything as I once believed.

 

Purchase Links

Amazon ➜ https://amzn.to/2Gt6RkP

Apple ➜ https://apple.co/2Qz4NsT

Nook ➜ https://bit.ly/3b6WcqL

Kobo ➜ https://bit.ly/2EEFNOx

Add to Goodreads ➜ https://bit.ly/3jp1qRH

 

BFF K’s Review of Keeping Score

Never in a million years would I guess this is a debut novel! I loved this book and characters so much! I’ve been in and out of reading-funks this past year. (Thanks, Corona virus!) After starting and stopping about 4 different books, I opened up Keeping Score and was thrilled when I couldn’t put it down. Every chapter was better than the last and I couldn’t wait to know happened next. I read the entire book in less than 24 hours and loved every minute of it!

Sophie is a terrific heroine. She’s tough and tender at the same time. Braxton has a bad boy reputation that overshadows his true nature. He’s battling some demons that have a serious impact on his outlook and relationships. Sophie doesn’t let him get away with anything and forces him to man up.

The HEA is a fantastic pay-off for a fast-paced, heart-warming story that you won’t want to put down! I can’t recommend Keeping Score strongly enough and I’m desperately hoping Alyssa Kale’s first novel won’t be her last!

 

An advance copy of this book was received. Receipt of this copy did not impact the content or independence of this review.

 

About the Author

Alyssa Kale, better known as Alyssa Garcia, is a debut author that really got her start in the industry as a book blogger, then a cover designer, then she got into the busy world of PR and marketing. It was only a matter of time before she actually sat down and wrote a book considering how intertwined her life is with the industry.

Website: https://alyssakale.com/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/alyssakaleauthor/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/alyssakaleauthor/

Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/alyssamg89

 

 

Review – Well This Sucks by Carrie Gray and Cora Lee June

🔥🔥 𝗛𝗢𝗧 𝗡𝗘𝗪 𝗥𝗘𝗟𝗘𝗔𝗦𝗘 & 𝗚𝗜𝗩𝗘𝗔𝗪𝗔𝗬🔥🔥

𝗪𝗲𝗹𝗹 𝗧𝗵𝗶𝘀 𝗦𝘂𝗰𝗸𝘀 𝗯𝘆 𝗖𝗼𝗿𝗮𝗟𝗲𝗲 𝗝𝘂𝗻𝗲 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗖𝗮𝗿𝗿𝗶𝗲 𝗚𝗿𝗮𝘆 𝗶𝘀 𝗟𝗜𝗩𝗘 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗙𝗥𝗘𝗘 𝘄𝗶𝘁𝗵 𝗞𝗨!

𝐺𝑒𝑡 𝑖𝑡 𝑛𝑜𝑤 𝑓𝑜𝑟 $1.99 𝑓𝑜𝑟 𝑎 𝑙𝑖𝑚𝑖𝑡𝑒𝑑 𝑡𝑖𝑚𝑒! 𝐹𝑎𝑙𝑙 𝑖𝑛 𝑙𝑜𝑣𝑒 𝑤𝑖𝑡ℎ 𝐷𝑟𝑒𝑤 𝑎𝑛𝑑 𝐷𝑖𝑒𝑔𝑜 𝑡𝑜𝑑𝑎𝑦!

I treat eating pancakes on patios like it’s a personality trait.

Brunch is my jam. I like the beach, shopping, carbs, and reading naughty books on the train during my commute. I wear pink. Lots of it. If Tinder were an Olympic sport, I’d take home the gold. I can rock stilettos like they’re a pair of Nike joggers. I’m basically basic.

I’m in the prime of my life. I’ve got my dream job as the head of marketing, and I’ve been steadily dating myself for the better half of the last decade. I’m thirty, flirty, and thriving.

Or at least I was, until some jerk had the audacity to turn me into a vampire.

I don’t do blood and doom and gloom. I sure as hell don’t like sleeping in a coffin, avoiding garlic bread, and these ridiculous vamp politics. And don’t get me started on Diego. He’s vampire royalty and a pain in my butt. A very sexy pain in the butt. When he’s not driving me crazy with all his rules, he’s turning my panties into Niagara falls.

I absolutely refuse to live the rest of my immortal life in some wannabe nineties grunge music video.

𝐓𝐇𝐈𝐒 𝐒𝐔𝐂𝐊𝐒.

Sᴛᴀʀᴛ ʀᴇᴀᴅɪɴɢ ᴛᴏᴅᴀʏ!

*Limited time price of $1.99 until 9/22.*

➡️ Amazon: https://amzn.to/2Hk5CEH

➡️ Goodreads: https://bit.ly/3aTH1RG

 

BFF K’s Review of Well This Sucks

Fun! That’s the perfect way to describe Well This Sucks. The book is pure escapist, campy, laugh-out-loud, boisterous, romp through the pages!

I adore a good vampire book and I love how every author takes their own spins on the myths surrounding the mythical creatures. Well This Sucks is an enjoyable take on a vampire coven where politics and enemies slink in every corner. Diego is the Vampire King and rules with absolute authority. He has no distractions or complications until Drew. Turned against her will and under some crazy circumstances, Drew is unceremoniously thrust into this hidden vampire world. And, she’s honestly less than thrilled about it! But, as she navigates this new world and she and Diego get to know each other,  apprehension burns away quickly and leaves a red-hot lust in its place.

This story is about Drew finding her place in her new world and it’s a lively self-discovery. Diego and Drew have some seriously steamy scenes that cement their bond and make this story a real page-turner. If you’re looking for a para-normal rom-com, full of fun, this story definitely doesn’t suck!

An advance copy of this book was received. Receipt of this copy did not impact the content or independence of this review.

 

Giveaway

The authors are giving away a gift box including a signed paperback and swag. Stop by to enter!

https://www.facebook.com/AuthorCoraleeJune/

http://www.facebook.com/authorcarriegray

 

About the Authors

Coralee June is an international bestselling romance writer who enjoys engaging projects and developing real, raw, and relatable characters. She is an English major from Texas State University and has had an intense interest in literature since her youth. She currently resides with her husband and two daughters in Dallas, Texas, where she enjoys long walks through the ice-cream aisle at her local grocery store.

Follow CoraLee June!

Website: www.authorcoraleejune.com

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AuthorCoraleeJune/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/coralee_june

Instagram: http://instagram.com/authorcoraleejune

Reader Group on FB: https://www.facebook.com/groups/thezonecoraleejune/?ref=br_rs

Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/17427078.Coralee_June

Amazon: http://www.amazon.com/author/cjune4

 

 

I have always loved to read. In kindergarten, I was the weird kid sitting in the reading nook by myself instead of trying to get more snacks. I’m excited to be putting my own voice on the page and watching a story I helped create come to life. I still love to read, but I also really like snacks.

I grew up in Chicago but recently moved back to the Dallas area where I live with my husband and son.

I have my Bachelor of Science in Biology. I spent a year researching chimpanzees and gorillas while I was in Chicago and then I spent another two months on a chimpanzee sanctuary trying to convince headstrong chimps to cooperate. Pro tip – grapes are a pretty hot bargaining tool. They work wonders with my toddler too.

Follow Carrie Gray!

Review – The Trouble with Quarterbacks by R.S. Grey

R.S. Grey’s next standalone rom-com, The Trouble With Quarterbacks, is available NOW! Get your copy today!

About The Trouble With Quarterbacks

CANDACE: KAT & YASMINE! DO NOT DALLY! Come straight home after work. Kat, don’t take the long route from the subway station just so you can pass by Cute Hot Dog Guy. This is important!

I’ve had THE BEST DAY. You won’t believe it. There I was in my preschool classroom, washing a bit of poo out of some soggy trousers, when this absolute babe came to collect his nephew from my class.

Truthfully, I thought I’d blacked out for a moment when I first saw him. He was a proper hunk with glorious brown hair, quite tall, and he had these arms. Are muscly arms supposed to turn me on? I’m panting just thinking about them.

Anyway, he told me he’s a professional foosball player. At least, I think that’s what he said. The tots can get quite loud near pick-up time.

YASMINE: Foosball? What are you on about? Have you gone mad?

KAT: Oh sod off. So what if I like to have a good look at Hot Dog Guy’s arse on my trek home after a hard day’s work? It’s called self-care.

CANDACE: Kat, you’re hopeless. Yasmine, yes—foosball! I suppose it’s a big thing over here in the States? We must investigate and learn everything we can.

By the way, he’s called Logan.

Logan + Candace. I think that sounds quite nice! I can hear the wedding bells now. Dum dum da-dum.

YASMINE: Oh good grief. I suppose we can do some snooping when I get home. I’ll grab wine on my way.

KAT: I’ll grab hot dogs.

THE TROUBLE WITH QUARTERBACKS is a hilarious romance about unlikely love found between a British preschool teacher and the professional quarterback who sweeps her off her feet.

Grab your copy today!

BFF K’s Review of The Trouble with Quarterbacks

Cute, fun and flirty! The Trouble with Quarterbacks by R.S. Grey is everything I look for in a Rom-Com. I want lovable characters, laugh out loud hi-jinx, some steamy scenes and a happily ever after that delivers an over-the-top satisfying conclusion. I know that every time I pick up an R.S. Grey rom-com I’m going to end up thoroughly satiated.

Logan is a dream. Celebrity quarterback, more money than he knows what to do with, but down to earth, devoted Uncle, and really all-round great guy! Candace is charming and quirky; preschool teacher by day and cocktail waitress by night. She’s quick witted and while not intimidated by Logan’s money or fame, she’s not seeking it out or comfortable with it either.

The book is fast paced and delightful to read. It’s the perfect mix of touching emotions and laugh out loud scenes. If you love a good rom-com that reads like a movie script, then you will not want to miss The Trouble with Quarterbacks! Grab your Kindle copy today!

 

An advance copy of this book was received. Receipt of this copy did not impact the content or independence of this review.

 

About R.S. Grey:

R.S. Grey is the USA Today bestselling author of over twenty novels. She lives in Texas with her husband and daughter, and can be found reading, binge-watching reality TV, or practicing yoga! Visit her at rsgrey.com

 

Website | Facebook | R.S. Grey’s Little Reds Facebook Group | Newsletter | Instagram

 

 

New Release – Love Her by Andrea Johnston

Love Her

Military Men of Lexington #3

Release Date: 7/23/2020

Genre: Contemporary; Small town; Single mom; Ex-military;

Slow burn; Redemption of the bad girl

 

Felicity

The day I left that small town behind, I swore I’d never be back. I was better than Lexington and its small-minded residents. No one bothered to look beyond the mask I wore to protect my heart.

Then or now.

Sometimes life doesn’t turn out the way we plan. Having kids was the best thing that I ever did. Returning to the one place I’m least welcome might be the most humiliating. The one thing about this town is a reputation follows you. So despite life humbling me, this town won’t forgive easily, and my past bad deeds still haunt me.

Connor

Running from one war to another in the military, I spent years trying to find what was meant for me, to figure out where I belonged. It wasn’t in the city where I grew up or overseas. My soul needed settling and Lexington seemed like a good place to be alone.

Then I met her.

She owned my attention from the moment I saw her, my heart right after. Through the grapevine, I learned Felicity had a past worth gossiping about. So do I. Maybe that’s why I’m drawn to her.

I moved here for a fresh start, a second chance to live a peaceful life, but she has me reevaluating that plan. Maybe it’s not peace I need but love that I’ve been missing all along.

Goodreads: http://bit.ly/LH_GR

Amazon Purchase Links

Amazon US     Amazon UK     Amazon CA     Amazon AU

 

Playlist

 

Release Giveaway

**Signed set of the Military Men of Lexington Trilogy, $10 Amazon GC, $10 Starbucks GC (US Only)**

 

https://www.facebook.com/AndreaJohnstonAuthor/posts/2658841101053678

 

About the Author

Andrea Johnston spent her childhood with her nose in a book and a pen to paper.

An avid people watcher, her mind is full of stories that yearn to be told.

A fan of angsty romance with a happy ending, super sexy erotica and a good mystery, Andrea can always be found with her Kindle nearby fully charged.

Andrea lives in Idaho with her family and two dogs. When she isn’t spending time with her partner in crime aka her husband, she can be found binge watching all things Bravo and enjoying a cocktail. Nothing makes her happier than the laughter of her children, a good book, her feet in the water, and cocktail in hand all at the same time.

 

Follow Andrea

Facebook | Website | Sassy Romantics | Nerd Herd | Instagram | Twitter | Amazon

Romance Fix | KU for YOU

 

Review – The Rivals by Vi Keeland

Title: The Rivals
Author: Vi Keeland
Genre: Standalone Contemporary Romance
Release Date: July 13, 2020

The feud between Weston Lockwood and me started at the altar.
Only neither of us attended the wedding, and the nuptials happened decades before either of us was born.
Our grandfathers had been best friends and business partners, at least up until my grandfather’s wedding day—when his bride-to-be blurted out she couldn’t marry him because she was also in love with Weston‘s grandfather.
The two men spent years fighting over Grace Copeland, who also happened to be their third business partner.  But in the end, neither man could steal half of her heart away from the other.
Eventually, they all went their separate ways.  Our grandfathers married other women, and the two men became one of the biggest business rivals in history.
Our fathers continued the family tradition of feuding.  And then Weston and I did, too.
For the most part, we kept as much distance as possible.
Until the day the woman who started the feud died—and unexpectedly left one of the most valuable hotels in the world to our grandfathers to share.
Now I’m stuck in a hotel with the man I was born to hate, trying to unravel the mess our families inherited.
As usual, it didn’t take long for us to be at each other’s throats.
Weston Lockwood was everything I hated: tall, smart, cocky, and too gorgeous for his own good.  We were fire and ice.
But that shouldn’t be an issue. Our families were used to being at war. There was just one minor problem, though.   Every time Weston and I fought, we somehow wound up in bed.

 

Purchase Links

BFF K’s Review of The Rivals

I LOVE this story! It’s enthralling, emotional and super steamy. I started the book during an afternoon car trip and just couldn’t put it down. I finished at 3am a lot tired, but so so happy!

Weston and Sophia are bitter enemies and every time they fight the sparks ignite. The banter is witty and spot on and both of the characters are so endearing. You’ll want the best for them both and that’s definitely each other. The hotel setting is unique and creates the perfect backdrop and setting for the characters to come to life.

The enemies to lovers storyline is captivating, it’s full of tension and angst. You’ll understand the push and pull but just want them to get to the HEA. And the HEA definitely delivers.

I’m certain it will be one of my BEST reads of the year. The Rivals is a book that you should DEFINITELY add to your TBR!

An advance copy of this book was received. Receipt of this copy did not impact the content or independence of this review.

 

About the Author

Vi Keeland is a #1 New York Times, #1 Wall Street Journal, and USA Today Bestselling author. With millions of books sold, her titles have appeared in over a hundred Bestseller lists and are currently translated in twenty-five languages. She resides in New York with her husband and their three children where she is living out her own happily ever after with the boy she met at age six.
Author Links

Other Books by Vi Keeland

AMAZON US / UK / CA / AU
B&N / KOBO / APPLE BOOKS
GOOGLE PLAY / AUDIOBOOK
PAPERBACK

 

AMAZON US / UK / CA / AU
B&N / KOBO / APPLE BOOKS
GOOGLE PLAY / AUDIOBOOK
PAPERBACK