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Candidly, Carla
Colors of Happiness Book 4
Annette G. Anders
2024 Finalist
340 Pages
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Fiction - Realistic
Reviewed by K.C. Finn for Readers' Favorite
Candidly, Carla is a work of fiction in the contemporary romance, interpersonal drama, and women’s fiction subgenres, and is the fourth standalone novel in the Colors of Happiness series. It is best suited to the general adult reading audience but contains no explicit material. Penned by author Annette G. Anders, the plot follows Carla Bellini, eager to open her high-end inn on Martha’s Vineyard, and who is focused on her business and not actively seeking a soulmate. However, she soon realizes that her feelings for Damian Foster, her brother's best friend, may be more intense than she had initially thought. Damian, a trendy architect who returns to New England, finds himself grappling with his growing attraction to Carla while navigating his professional success. As their feelings intensify, both Carla and Damian must confront their pasts and make difficult decisions about their futures.
Author Annette G. Anders has crafted a charming novel that presents a rich tapestry of characters and emotions with plenty of dynamic dialogue and emotive description to get readers invested in their stories. Carla's determination to open her inn and her reluctance to pursue romance is the ideal foil for her tough exterior to begin showing vulnerabilities, and I liked the journey for her because she never lost her fierce spirit. Damian's inner struggle was equally well-paced, with some fantastic dialogue allowing us to pick away at his psyche between the lines and see what’s really going on. The unexpected twists and turns, including the introduction of a rival for Carla's affections, give the plot some great pacing and injections of new intrigue, resulting in a compelling narrative that resonates long after the final page is turned. Overall, Candidly, Carla is a highly recommended read for fans of the existing series and an excellent standalone introduction to a brilliant romance author with a great flair for character and atmosphere.
Candidly, Carla is a work of fiction in the contemporary romance, interpersonal drama, and women’s fiction subgenres, and is the fourth standalone novel in the Colors of Happiness series. It is best suited to the general adult reading audience but contains no explicit material. Penned by author Annette G. Anders, the plot follows Carla Bellini, eager to open her high-end inn on Martha’s Vineyard, and who is focused on her business and not actively seeking a soulmate. However, she soon realizes that her feelings for Damian Foster, her brother's best friend, may be more intense than she had initially thought. Damian, a trendy architect who returns to New England, finds himself grappling with his growing attraction to Carla while navigating his professional success. As their feelings intensify, both Carla and Damian must confront their pasts and make difficult decisions about their futures.
Author Annette G. Anders has crafted a charming novel that presents a rich tapestry of characters and emotions with plenty of dynamic dialogue and emotive description to get readers invested in their stories. Carla's determination to open her inn and her reluctance to pursue romance is the ideal foil for her tough exterior to begin showing vulnerabilities, and I liked the journey for her because she never lost her fierce spirit. Damian's inner struggle was equally well-paced, with some fantastic dialogue allowing us to pick away at his psyche between the lines and see what’s really going on. The unexpected twists and turns, including the introduction of a rival for Carla's affections, give the plot some great pacing and injections of new intrigue, resulting in a compelling narrative that resonates long after the final page is turned. Overall, Candidly, Carla is a highly recommended read for fans of the existing series and an excellent standalone introduction to a brilliant romance author with a great flair for character and atmosphere.
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Summer of Mud
Rebecca Bischoff
2024 Honorable Mention
304 Pages
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Fiction - Realistic
Reviewed by K.C. Finn for Readers' Favorite
Summer of Mud is a work of fiction in the coming of age, recent historical fiction, and slice-of-life subgenres. The work is best suited to mature teen and adult readers. Penned by author Rebecca Bischoff, the plot follows twelve-year-old Scoob, a musical prodigy dreaming of jazz stardom as she navigates the challenges of the summer of 1976. Landing a gig seems like her big break, but her plans are disrupted when her older brother RC takes her on an unexpected road trip. Stranded in Rexburg, Idaho, they become entangled in a community divided over a newly built dam. As Scoob struggles to return home for her audition, she discovers RC's hidden secrets. When disaster strikes with the dam's leak, Scoob faces a fight for survival and learns what truly matters in life.
Author Rebecca Bischoff puts heart and soul into this emotive coming-of-age tale to craft a captivating experience, immersing readers fully in Scoob's journey of self-discovery and resilience. The vivid depiction of 1976 leaps off the page at you right from the start, bringing the recent past back in full living color with immersive descriptive language and atmospheric, moody undertones. The intricacies of Scoob's relationships, particularly with her brother RC, are well-realized with realistic and amusing dialogue that sets up their complex relationship and lets a lot of the hidden details play out naturally between the lines. The tension builds steadily as the story unfolds, with plenty of heart-wrenching and surprising twists before it culminates in a gripping climax that kept me on the edge of my seat. Overall, readers seeking an emotive drama with masterful storytelling and compelling characters will certainly enjoy Summer of Mud.
Summer of Mud is a work of fiction in the coming of age, recent historical fiction, and slice-of-life subgenres. The work is best suited to mature teen and adult readers. Penned by author Rebecca Bischoff, the plot follows twelve-year-old Scoob, a musical prodigy dreaming of jazz stardom as she navigates the challenges of the summer of 1976. Landing a gig seems like her big break, but her plans are disrupted when her older brother RC takes her on an unexpected road trip. Stranded in Rexburg, Idaho, they become entangled in a community divided over a newly built dam. As Scoob struggles to return home for her audition, she discovers RC's hidden secrets. When disaster strikes with the dam's leak, Scoob faces a fight for survival and learns what truly matters in life.
Author Rebecca Bischoff puts heart and soul into this emotive coming-of-age tale to craft a captivating experience, immersing readers fully in Scoob's journey of self-discovery and resilience. The vivid depiction of 1976 leaps off the page at you right from the start, bringing the recent past back in full living color with immersive descriptive language and atmospheric, moody undertones. The intricacies of Scoob's relationships, particularly with her brother RC, are well-realized with realistic and amusing dialogue that sets up their complex relationship and lets a lot of the hidden details play out naturally between the lines. The tension builds steadily as the story unfolds, with plenty of heart-wrenching and surprising twists before it culminates in a gripping climax that kept me on the edge of my seat. Overall, readers seeking an emotive drama with masterful storytelling and compelling characters will certainly enjoy Summer of Mud.
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Love, Literally
J. T. Tierney
2024 Bronze Medal
266 Pages
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Fiction - Realistic
Reviewed by Courtnee Turner Hoyle for Readers' Favorite
In J.T. Tierney's Love, Literally, during the COVID pandemic, Hallie Bancroft finds herself without a roommate, boyfriend, or job. At her long-time friend Maria's insistence, she moves in with Maria and her husband. Maria's wealthy friends, Lisa and Paul, invite the trio to join them at their expansive second house, as they have felt distanced from human connection. Paul invites his friend, Quinn O'Neill, a college professor who gains Hallie's attention right away. Tensions mount as the six people attempt to cohabit under the restraints of the pandemic. Secrets spill out as Hallie and Quinn explore their feelings for each other, and they wonder if their affair could be more when they leave. When Hallie's ex-boyfriend shows up unexpectedly, Hallie questions her direction in life and who she wants in it.
J.T. Tierney embraces the male and female perspectives through the novel without stereotypes, focusing on Quinn's, Hallie's, and Maria's points of view. Hallie is a forthright and charming middle-aged woman, who enjoys wordplay and appreciates open-minded people. The language and banter between Hallie and Quinn entertained me, as it was a different kind of foreplay. Nineteenth-century British literature amuses the couple, and they value candor. Tierney addresses wealth, sexual orientation, and politics without making it the focus of the work, and readers experience the depth of the characters as they share their pasts and unload secrets. The spark between Hallie and Quinn is strong as they explore whether their romance will dwindle or turn into a roaring blaze. Hallie's views are infectious, and her points are valid, making Love, Literally a good selection for readers who enjoy a strong female protagonist in an uncertain love story.
In J.T. Tierney's Love, Literally, during the COVID pandemic, Hallie Bancroft finds herself without a roommate, boyfriend, or job. At her long-time friend Maria's insistence, she moves in with Maria and her husband. Maria's wealthy friends, Lisa and Paul, invite the trio to join them at their expansive second house, as they have felt distanced from human connection. Paul invites his friend, Quinn O'Neill, a college professor who gains Hallie's attention right away. Tensions mount as the six people attempt to cohabit under the restraints of the pandemic. Secrets spill out as Hallie and Quinn explore their feelings for each other, and they wonder if their affair could be more when they leave. When Hallie's ex-boyfriend shows up unexpectedly, Hallie questions her direction in life and who she wants in it.
J.T. Tierney embraces the male and female perspectives through the novel without stereotypes, focusing on Quinn's, Hallie's, and Maria's points of view. Hallie is a forthright and charming middle-aged woman, who enjoys wordplay and appreciates open-minded people. The language and banter between Hallie and Quinn entertained me, as it was a different kind of foreplay. Nineteenth-century British literature amuses the couple, and they value candor. Tierney addresses wealth, sexual orientation, and politics without making it the focus of the work, and readers experience the depth of the characters as they share their pasts and unload secrets. The spark between Hallie and Quinn is strong as they explore whether their romance will dwindle or turn into a roaring blaze. Hallie's views are infectious, and her points are valid, making Love, Literally a good selection for readers who enjoy a strong female protagonist in an uncertain love story.
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Tell Me Your Plans
Torres and Firsht
2024 Silver Medal
341 Pages
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Fiction - Realistic
Reviewed by K.C. Finn for Readers' Favorite
Tell Me Your Plans is a work of fiction in the interpersonal drama, women’s fiction, and slice-of-life genres. It is best suited to mature readers owing to some sexual references and non-graphic mentions of assault. Penned by author team Torres and Firsht, the work delves into the life of Veronica Rubio, a driven 26-year-old navigating the competitive world of high finance in Los Angeles. Guided by her mantra ‘Luck favors the prepared,’ Veronica focuses on her career, eschewing romance until she turns 30. However, her resolve is tested when she meets Felix Rivas, a charming game designer from East L.A. Their encounter sparks a series of decisions that challenge Veronica's carefully crafted plans, leading to unexpected consequences and a reevaluation of her priorities.
Author team Torres and Firsht have crafted an engaging exploration of ambition, romance, and the complexities of modern life that raises a lot of interesting and important issues for women today. Veronica's character, though flawed, is compelling and relatable, evoking empathy as she grapples with the pressures of her career and the unexpected twists of fate. I found the close narrative style highly effective as it let us into Veronica’s heart and mind, showcasing her shifting attitudes and the way the events of the plot impact her emotional growth. The authors skillfully weave together themes of ambition and love with a great sense of balance, highlighting the tension between personal aspirations and the pursuit of happiness and fulfillment in the modern age. Veronica's journey is sure to resonate on a deeper level thanks to the masterful control of speech and thought presentation, prompting reflection on the nature of success and the importance of remaining true to oneself amidst life's uncertainties. Overall, Tell Me Your Plans is a captivating read that offers both entertainment and insight into the human experience, and I would not hesitate to recommend it to fans of intelligently penned women’s drama everywhere.
Tell Me Your Plans is a work of fiction in the interpersonal drama, women’s fiction, and slice-of-life genres. It is best suited to mature readers owing to some sexual references and non-graphic mentions of assault. Penned by author team Torres and Firsht, the work delves into the life of Veronica Rubio, a driven 26-year-old navigating the competitive world of high finance in Los Angeles. Guided by her mantra ‘Luck favors the prepared,’ Veronica focuses on her career, eschewing romance until she turns 30. However, her resolve is tested when she meets Felix Rivas, a charming game designer from East L.A. Their encounter sparks a series of decisions that challenge Veronica's carefully crafted plans, leading to unexpected consequences and a reevaluation of her priorities.
Author team Torres and Firsht have crafted an engaging exploration of ambition, romance, and the complexities of modern life that raises a lot of interesting and important issues for women today. Veronica's character, though flawed, is compelling and relatable, evoking empathy as she grapples with the pressures of her career and the unexpected twists of fate. I found the close narrative style highly effective as it let us into Veronica’s heart and mind, showcasing her shifting attitudes and the way the events of the plot impact her emotional growth. The authors skillfully weave together themes of ambition and love with a great sense of balance, highlighting the tension between personal aspirations and the pursuit of happiness and fulfillment in the modern age. Veronica's journey is sure to resonate on a deeper level thanks to the masterful control of speech and thought presentation, prompting reflection on the nature of success and the importance of remaining true to oneself amidst life's uncertainties. Overall, Tell Me Your Plans is a captivating read that offers both entertainment and insight into the human experience, and I would not hesitate to recommend it to fans of intelligently penned women’s drama everywhere.
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180 Days
Infidelity. Architecture. Punk Rock. Clonazepam.
Alfredo Botello
2024 Gold Medal
356 Pages
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Fiction - Realistic
Reviewed by K.C. Finn for Readers' Favorite
Penned by author Alfredo Botello, 180 Days is a work of fiction in the literary, drama, relationships, and family life subgenres. It is best suited to adult readers owing to some strong language, as well as sexual references and discussion of suicide. The plot follows Tomas Araeta and Naomi Curran as their marriage faces a critical juncture. When Tomas strays with a client, Naomi files for divorce, triggering California's mandatory six-month waiting period. Now, with just 180 days before the divorce is finalized, Tomas must win Naomi back. As they navigate their intertwined journeys, they encounter various characters and challenges that force them to confront their own identities and desires. From a reclusive punk-rock star to architectural wonders, they grapple with questions of validation, self-image, and the future of their relationship. On Day 180, they must decide what they truly want and whether they still envision a future together.
Author Alfredo Botello has crafted a moving and character-driven literary work that masterfully delves into the emotional landscape of marriage, portraying the characters' struggles with authenticity and depth. There’s a poignant narrative style that keeps us right on the shoulders of the central pair, hearing every word of their dynamic dialogue and all those clues between the lines that intensify as the story progresses. The pacing keeps the reader engaged as Tomas and Naomi confront their individual demons and navigate the challenges of reconciliation, shifting between different focal points and playing out a good progression of emotive highs and lows that feel naturally placed. The themes of self-discovery and personal growth resonate deeply, prompting reflection on one's own relationships and aspirations. The lingering message about what we truly want out of life stayed with me long after I put the book down. Overall, 180 Days is a compelling narrative and a poignant exploration of love, loss, and the complexities of relationships that I would not hesitate to recommend.
Penned by author Alfredo Botello, 180 Days is a work of fiction in the literary, drama, relationships, and family life subgenres. It is best suited to adult readers owing to some strong language, as well as sexual references and discussion of suicide. The plot follows Tomas Araeta and Naomi Curran as their marriage faces a critical juncture. When Tomas strays with a client, Naomi files for divorce, triggering California's mandatory six-month waiting period. Now, with just 180 days before the divorce is finalized, Tomas must win Naomi back. As they navigate their intertwined journeys, they encounter various characters and challenges that force them to confront their own identities and desires. From a reclusive punk-rock star to architectural wonders, they grapple with questions of validation, self-image, and the future of their relationship. On Day 180, they must decide what they truly want and whether they still envision a future together.
Author Alfredo Botello has crafted a moving and character-driven literary work that masterfully delves into the emotional landscape of marriage, portraying the characters' struggles with authenticity and depth. There’s a poignant narrative style that keeps us right on the shoulders of the central pair, hearing every word of their dynamic dialogue and all those clues between the lines that intensify as the story progresses. The pacing keeps the reader engaged as Tomas and Naomi confront their individual demons and navigate the challenges of reconciliation, shifting between different focal points and playing out a good progression of emotive highs and lows that feel naturally placed. The themes of self-discovery and personal growth resonate deeply, prompting reflection on one's own relationships and aspirations. The lingering message about what we truly want out of life stayed with me long after I put the book down. Overall, 180 Days is a compelling narrative and a poignant exploration of love, loss, and the complexities of relationships that I would not hesitate to recommend.
Recommend this book:
All That She Brings
Toby Brookes
2023 Finalist
374 Pages
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Fiction - Realistic
Reviewed by Asher Syed for Readers' Favorite
All That She Brings by Toby Brookes focuses on the life of Matthew Banks, an insurance agent in Connecticut. Matthew's optimism for the future is shattered when his wife Julia dies in a car accident. He discovers that she had been cheating on him and Matthew is consumed by grief for several months until he seeks help from his therapist, Madeleine Batiste. During their sessions, Matthew opens up about his troubled childhood, with an alcoholic mother and an absent father, which led him to find solace in his marriage. Despite his attempts to seek revenge on Julia's lover, he realizes that he has developed romantic feelings for Batiste. This escalates into problematic territory for a man who already has a thousand little issues on his plate, especially after returning home to California.
Toby Brookes does an exceptional job of showing readers that the “she” in the title All That She Brings is really the title version of a composite character. There are many women in Matthew's life, as there are in most of ours, and they do shape us whether we like it or not. Matthew's mother gave him life but it was skewed through a kaleidoscope of addiction and toxic motherhood. Matthew's deceased wife brings heartache yet her toxic demise does not skewer his perspective but actually sets it straight. It's painful and hard, but growth is rarely anything else. Madeleine brings an element of healing, but from the point of view of Matthew's character arc, what she really brings is a full circle back to life. Finally, there is another “she” who trumps them all. I loved this intelligently written novel for its wit, its creativity, and the heaps of fully fleshed-out characters that bring it all to life. Very highly recommended.
All That She Brings by Toby Brookes focuses on the life of Matthew Banks, an insurance agent in Connecticut. Matthew's optimism for the future is shattered when his wife Julia dies in a car accident. He discovers that she had been cheating on him and Matthew is consumed by grief for several months until he seeks help from his therapist, Madeleine Batiste. During their sessions, Matthew opens up about his troubled childhood, with an alcoholic mother and an absent father, which led him to find solace in his marriage. Despite his attempts to seek revenge on Julia's lover, he realizes that he has developed romantic feelings for Batiste. This escalates into problematic territory for a man who already has a thousand little issues on his plate, especially after returning home to California.
Toby Brookes does an exceptional job of showing readers that the “she” in the title All That She Brings is really the title version of a composite character. There are many women in Matthew's life, as there are in most of ours, and they do shape us whether we like it or not. Matthew's mother gave him life but it was skewed through a kaleidoscope of addiction and toxic motherhood. Matthew's deceased wife brings heartache yet her toxic demise does not skewer his perspective but actually sets it straight. It's painful and hard, but growth is rarely anything else. Madeleine brings an element of healing, but from the point of view of Matthew's character arc, what she really brings is a full circle back to life. Finally, there is another “she” who trumps them all. I loved this intelligently written novel for its wit, its creativity, and the heaps of fully fleshed-out characters that bring it all to life. Very highly recommended.
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Paloma In A Pickle
Colors of Happiness Book 2
Annette G. Anders
2023 Honorable Mention
314 Pages
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Fiction - Realistic
Reviewed by Pikasho Deka for Readers' Favorite
Paloma In A Pickle is a contemporary romance novel by Annette G. Anders. Paloma Schlemmer's new job as a manager at her friend Carla's catering business becomes somewhat difficult to maintain due to her irresistible attraction to Carla's handsome brother, Matt Bellini. Having lost the beloved cafe she owned with her ex-boyfriend, Paloma is in no mood for a new relationship or a fling. Matt Bellini has immersed himself fully in his family business but can't help but be distracted by the new catering manager. Things come to a head when Paloma and Matt eventually give in to their desires and have a brief romance, but neither of them can fully commit themselves. Meanwhile, secrets of Matt's past spring up like an albatross around his neck. Can Matt take a leap of faith and reveal his true feelings to Paloma?
Romance lovers are in for a treat with Paloma In A Pickle. This is a tale of two people's struggles to let go of the baggage of their past, accidentally finding true love in the process. Author Annette G. Anders carves some genuinely likable characters with depth and agency that will keep readers immersed in their arcs, making them wonder where they will end up. The scenes involving Paloma and Matt are filled with flirtatious banter and sexual tension, and the chemistry between the two main characters keeps you hooked until the end. I very much enjoyed the book. Overall, a charming romantic drama novel that a wide range of readers will enjoy.
Paloma In A Pickle is a contemporary romance novel by Annette G. Anders. Paloma Schlemmer's new job as a manager at her friend Carla's catering business becomes somewhat difficult to maintain due to her irresistible attraction to Carla's handsome brother, Matt Bellini. Having lost the beloved cafe she owned with her ex-boyfriend, Paloma is in no mood for a new relationship or a fling. Matt Bellini has immersed himself fully in his family business but can't help but be distracted by the new catering manager. Things come to a head when Paloma and Matt eventually give in to their desires and have a brief romance, but neither of them can fully commit themselves. Meanwhile, secrets of Matt's past spring up like an albatross around his neck. Can Matt take a leap of faith and reveal his true feelings to Paloma?
Romance lovers are in for a treat with Paloma In A Pickle. This is a tale of two people's struggles to let go of the baggage of their past, accidentally finding true love in the process. Author Annette G. Anders carves some genuinely likable characters with depth and agency that will keep readers immersed in their arcs, making them wonder where they will end up. The scenes involving Paloma and Matt are filled with flirtatious banter and sexual tension, and the chemistry between the two main characters keeps you hooked until the end. I very much enjoyed the book. Overall, a charming romantic drama novel that a wide range of readers will enjoy.
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Uncontrollable
Sara Staggs
2023 Bronze Medal
307 Pages
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Fiction - Realistic
Reviewed by Rabia Tanveer for Readers' Favorite
Uncontrollable by Sara Staggs is the emotional yet refreshing tale of Casey Scott. At 36 years of age, Casey has everything she can wish for. She has a successful marriage, children, and a civil rights litigator job that she loves. There is one thing missing from her life, and that is health. Fighting with epilepsy and her seizures every day takes a toll on her mind, body, and life. However, when her condition gets worse, Casey has to make some tough decisions. On one hand, she wants to keep her family and live a long blissful life with them. On the other, she wants her thriving career. She cannot have both, especially if she wants to take control of her condition. What will she choose? Her dreams or her family?
Casey is a strong character and I love how she drives the story forward and commands the pace of the narrative. She is the one in control, and I loved every second of it. Sara Staggs does a wonderful job of creating a believable story with a powerful protagonist. Each character has a story to tell, and Sara makes sure they each get a turn. Jonah is such a charming and helpful partner. He understands Casey and her aspirations and he is always beside her to support her. Sam’s and Sadie’s inclusion adds humility to Casey and makes her appear more human. Uncontrollable is such a realistic name and approach to the story. Casey has no control over her condition, yet she still strives to fight for it. She is almost crippled by fear of a misstep or a mistake. The story is more about Casey coming to terms with her life and coming up with a game plan that she can accept and feel satisfied with. It is almost a coming-of-age story that I am sure will be loved by many.
Uncontrollable by Sara Staggs is the emotional yet refreshing tale of Casey Scott. At 36 years of age, Casey has everything she can wish for. She has a successful marriage, children, and a civil rights litigator job that she loves. There is one thing missing from her life, and that is health. Fighting with epilepsy and her seizures every day takes a toll on her mind, body, and life. However, when her condition gets worse, Casey has to make some tough decisions. On one hand, she wants to keep her family and live a long blissful life with them. On the other, she wants her thriving career. She cannot have both, especially if she wants to take control of her condition. What will she choose? Her dreams or her family?
Casey is a strong character and I love how she drives the story forward and commands the pace of the narrative. She is the one in control, and I loved every second of it. Sara Staggs does a wonderful job of creating a believable story with a powerful protagonist. Each character has a story to tell, and Sara makes sure they each get a turn. Jonah is such a charming and helpful partner. He understands Casey and her aspirations and he is always beside her to support her. Sam’s and Sadie’s inclusion adds humility to Casey and makes her appear more human. Uncontrollable is such a realistic name and approach to the story. Casey has no control over her condition, yet she still strives to fight for it. She is almost crippled by fear of a misstep or a mistake. The story is more about Casey coming to terms with her life and coming up with a game plan that she can accept and feel satisfied with. It is almost a coming-of-age story that I am sure will be loved by many.
Recommend this book:
 is a romantic drama by Tamara Ferguson. Melinda McDaniel's happy life shatters when she loses her unborn child and her fiancé, Air Force Pilot Alex "Hawk" Marquart, is killed in action. To take her mind off her grief, Mel, a Registered Nurse, accepts a job offer at the Wounded Warr...){kind=link}
Two Hearts in Retreat
Two Hearts Wounded Warrior Romance Book 18
Tamara Ferguson
2023 Silver Medal
228 Pages
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Fiction - Realistic
Reviewed by Pikasho Deka for Readers' Favorite
Two Hearts in Retreat (Two Hearts Wounded Warrior Romance Book 18) is a romantic drama by Tamara Ferguson. Melinda McDaniel's happy life shatters when she loses her unborn child and her fiancé, Air Force Pilot Alex "Hawk" Marquart, is killed in action. To take her mind off her grief, Mel, a Registered Nurse, accepts a job offer at the Wounded Warrior Home in Crystal Rock, Wisconsin. Steve Ryder is a former Navy vet turned physical therapist who lost his wife to cancer two years before. Circumstances bring Steve and Mel together when he became the therapist to Luke Bryant, Hawk's best friend who suffered from severe injuries. Drawn by an intense mutual attraction, Mel and Steve still can't help taking their time to acknowledge their feelings. But when a six-year-old special needs child enters their lives, Mel and Steve realize that their goals align.
Tamara Ferguson infuses a lot of humor and heart into this moving story about two people finding each other and rediscovering love amid tragedy. Two Hearts in Retreat lives up to its name and pulls at your heartstrings with a combination of stellar character work and an emotionally impactful plot. Mel and Steve's burgeoning romance is at the center of the narrative. Both are grieving the loss of their loved ones and discover an inexplicable connection the moment they meet, only to be scared to take the next step further due to past heartbreak. I liked Ferguson's depiction of war veterans, showcasing the sacrifices they make in the name of their country and its people. A fantastic book for romance lovers.
Two Hearts in Retreat (Two Hearts Wounded Warrior Romance Book 18) is a romantic drama by Tamara Ferguson. Melinda McDaniel's happy life shatters when she loses her unborn child and her fiancé, Air Force Pilot Alex "Hawk" Marquart, is killed in action. To take her mind off her grief, Mel, a Registered Nurse, accepts a job offer at the Wounded Warrior Home in Crystal Rock, Wisconsin. Steve Ryder is a former Navy vet turned physical therapist who lost his wife to cancer two years before. Circumstances bring Steve and Mel together when he became the therapist to Luke Bryant, Hawk's best friend who suffered from severe injuries. Drawn by an intense mutual attraction, Mel and Steve still can't help taking their time to acknowledge their feelings. But when a six-year-old special needs child enters their lives, Mel and Steve realize that their goals align.
Tamara Ferguson infuses a lot of humor and heart into this moving story about two people finding each other and rediscovering love amid tragedy. Two Hearts in Retreat lives up to its name and pulls at your heartstrings with a combination of stellar character work and an emotionally impactful plot. Mel and Steve's burgeoning romance is at the center of the narrative. Both are grieving the loss of their loved ones and discover an inexplicable connection the moment they meet, only to be scared to take the next step further due to past heartbreak. I liked Ferguson's depiction of war veterans, showcasing the sacrifices they make in the name of their country and its people. A fantastic book for romance lovers.
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The Stories We Cannot Tell
Leslie A. Rasmussen
2023 Gold Medal
297 Pages
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Fiction - Realistic
Reviewed by Rabia Tanveer for Readers' Favorite
The Stories We Cannot Tell by Leslie A. Rasmussen is the story of two 30-something women who were brought together by fate. Katie was a devout Christian woman who became pregnant out of wedlock. Unhappy and desperate, Katie had no idea what she would do now. On the other hand, Rachel and her husband were ecstatic when they found out she was pregnant. The Jewish couple was desperate when they discovered something wrong with their baby. They weren’t the only ones, though. Katie also found out something was wrong with her baby too. Katie and Rachel found each other in a support group and a friend in each other. As their pregnancies progressed and their complications increased, Katie and Rachel were left to make the toughest decisions.
This novel is a tale of friendship, comfort, found family, and acceptance. Women feel very vulnerable and exposed while pregnant. The insecurities they feel, the intensity of emotions, and the heightened senses can overwhelm a woman. Somehow, Leslie A. Rasmussen portrayed every emotion a woman goes through while pregnant and it was all told in clear detail. I felt bad for Rachel and Katie. They were both on different spectrums of pregnancy. One was happy about her baby, and the other was terrified. They struggled in their own ways, and Rasmussen ensured readers heard them clearly. I was devastated halfway through the story and was on the verge of tears. Rachel and Katie found comfort in each other and became the support they needed to survive. The pace was perfect and allowed readers to get close to the protagonists early on. The descriptions were realistic and emotion-evoking. I had a hard time putting The Stories We Cannot Tell down, to be honest. I loved it and highly recommend it.
The Stories We Cannot Tell by Leslie A. Rasmussen is the story of two 30-something women who were brought together by fate. Katie was a devout Christian woman who became pregnant out of wedlock. Unhappy and desperate, Katie had no idea what she would do now. On the other hand, Rachel and her husband were ecstatic when they found out she was pregnant. The Jewish couple was desperate when they discovered something wrong with their baby. They weren’t the only ones, though. Katie also found out something was wrong with her baby too. Katie and Rachel found each other in a support group and a friend in each other. As their pregnancies progressed and their complications increased, Katie and Rachel were left to make the toughest decisions.
This novel is a tale of friendship, comfort, found family, and acceptance. Women feel very vulnerable and exposed while pregnant. The insecurities they feel, the intensity of emotions, and the heightened senses can overwhelm a woman. Somehow, Leslie A. Rasmussen portrayed every emotion a woman goes through while pregnant and it was all told in clear detail. I felt bad for Rachel and Katie. They were both on different spectrums of pregnancy. One was happy about her baby, and the other was terrified. They struggled in their own ways, and Rasmussen ensured readers heard them clearly. I was devastated halfway through the story and was on the verge of tears. Rachel and Katie found comfort in each other and became the support they needed to survive. The pace was perfect and allowed readers to get close to the protagonists early on. The descriptions were realistic and emotion-evoking. I had a hard time putting The Stories We Cannot Tell down, to be honest. I loved it and highly recommend it.
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