Park Avenue Player by Penelope Ward

My rating: 5 of 5 stars


Another top notch book by the dynamic writing duo Penelope Ward and Vi Keeland.

Elodie’s character was a unique spin on the classic contemporary romance heroine. She’s brash, edgy, and admits to wild child behavior as a child including…shoplifting (gasp)! For a “goody two-shoes” like me these were not necessarily welcome attributes. As the story and characters progressed I found value and density (weird description but it’s apt) in her early years, struggles, and rough edges.

Hollis’ character was well-crafted. Aloof yet endearing. Handsome yet moody. A successful and career-driven professional who’s also the custodian of his 11 year old niece and a comical bird named Huey. (Perhaps my only gripe is that there weren’t enough “bird” scenes in the book.) As a single mom with 2 young kids I loved the realism and challenges that both Hollis and Elodie faced to balance their responsibility for Hailey and their desire to explore their relationship. It’s a constant balancing act that requires patience and flexibility.

The “twist” towards the end was as beautiful as it was painful to read about. I won’t mention any more as to not ruin it for new readers. Trust me… it’s juicy!

These authors can do no wrong! Both their individual and co-author projects are always literary gold. They develop unique characters and setting with just the right pacing and mixture of steamy and intrigue EVERY.SINGLE.TIME.



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The Will by Kristen Ashley

My rating: 5 of 5 stars


I re-read this book in honor of it going into movie production.

In a time when so many romances focus on first loves and characters in their early twenties it was refreshing to visit Magdalene and meet so many enchanting “forty somethings”. While some of the dialog (Josephine) was over-the-top I’ll happily overlook those scenes because of the overall beauty this story possesses.

Now I’ll not so patiently wait for the movie’s release. Looking forward to seeing the film version of Jake “The Truck” Spear, his adorable children, and the ever glamorous Josephine.



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Stay by Tia Louise

My rating: 4 of 5 stars


One of my favorite tropes (damsel in distress) mixed with one of my least favorite (virgin) – an interesting combination but it worked out for the better.

Alright- so first I’ll admit that when the story begins I was confused. Based on the synopsis I (incorrectly) assumed that our damsel in distress Emmy Barton had always been just that…a damsel in distress. For the record Emmy Barton and her brother live a comfortable lifestyle and is on equal (or at least closer) footing with Stephen Hastings in their youth. I mention this in case you as a reader also go into the book with that preconceived notion. Now that we’ve got that cleared up I’ll continue with the review.

Emmy Barton is a strong single mother. Several times during the story I wanted to give her a high five or a hug for putting her son’s needs first. As a single mother myself I immediately felt connected to her character. Her ex is a dickwad, her son has special needs, and Emmy does her best to stay afloat.

Stephen Hastings was an interesting character. He was slower to evolve throughout the book compared to many romance heroes. Most stories you’ll read the male love interest will fall in love and immediately want to tie down his lovely lady in holy matrimony. This is not the case for Stephen. While he steps in to assist Emmy and her son his interest in her is temporary with no long term plans to be in their lives.

While I liked Emmy and Stephen’s characters the real highlight of the book for me was Stephen’s aunt. Through her meddling she put Stephen on the path to discover Emmy’s plight. She was wealthy but not judgemental, quick to accept Emmy, and generous in her affection and celebrations. Truly a refreshing character that I found charming.





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Animal Magnetism by Jill Shalvis

My rating: 5 of 5 stars


The perfect contemporary romance book! Adorable animals, a woman with a heart of gold, hunky military pilot, and LOTS of junk food.

From the very first chapter I fell in love with Lilah Young. She’s down-to-earth (rocking her Carnhardtt’s), goofy (don’t trust her to back up the truck!), animal rescuer (the duck Abigail is over-the-top adorable), and a junk food lover extraordinaire. What makes Lilah particularly beautiful is the combination of strength, compassion, and honesty. Jill Shalvis created a beautiful character that was so endearing you celebrated her story.

Brady Miller – Take a moment to close you eyes (after you read this description, of course!) and imagine a handsome former soldier, skilled in piloting any aircraft. Exuding confidence and testosterone. Slow to react and loyal to the core. Scarred from years of foster family transfers -he comes across as aloof but genuine. Brady’s character is believable (at least I want to believe men like him exist!) because he wasn’t over-the-top. What I mean by that is Jill crafted a character that was realistic. Not obscenely wealthy, perfect, or boasting inhuman strength. Brady is flawed and watching his personal growth throughout the book was engaging.

Reading this book will give you all the happy, glowing satisfaction of reading two endearing characters find their happiness. There was no over-the-top danger or drama. If you have a stressful life I’d recommend slipping into this beautiful book for a few hours. It’s the perfect prescription to overcome a chaotic day.

Enjoy book friends!



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