Reviewed by Rabia Tanveer for Readers' Favorite

A Collision with Love by Tricia T. LaRochelle is an emotionally charged story about Cassie Griffin, a successful lawyer, navigating the tension between her career ambitions and her marriage. While Cassie strives to achieve her goal of becoming a senior partner at her law firm, her husband, Daniel, is ready to start a family. A life-altering, near-miss accident forces Cassie to confront the growing divide between her personal and professional lives, questioning whether the dream of “having it all” is attainable. Can Cassie and Daniel find a middle ground for both of their wants and desires? Can Cassie have the best of both worlds? Or will she have to decide between her passion and the love of her life?

Author Tricia T. LaRochelle did a wonderful job of creating a believable story. Cassie’s struggles are deeply relatable for anyone who has grappled with competing priorities and societal expectations. The characters are well-rounded and created with care. Cassie’s inner conflict and Daniel’s love create a compelling emotional story for readers to enjoy. The narrative style is clear and engaging. The near-miss accident is a key moment in the plot and makes it more entertaining. The tension created by this conflict drives the narrative and keeps the reader engaged. The setting of Richmond, Virginia adds a touch of realism to the story. LaRochelle excels in portraying a marriage's raw emotions and hard choices tested by ambition and compromise. A Collision with Love is a touching and thought-provoking romance that resonates with the universal struggle to find balance in a demanding world.

Reviewed by Nino Lobiladze for Readers' Favorite

Dottie Hogan hopes to start working at a gallery her Aunt Lois owns in Blue Holly, a small Appalachian town where she spent summers in her childhood. Dottie is almost broke after a painful divorce. She is not ready to take another blow: her aunt closes the gallery and moves to Belize to help Dottie's mother with her project. Lois offers Dottie the opportunity to reconstruct an old hardware store named the Red Arrow. If Dottie succeeds, the Red Arrow becomes hers. Dottie accepts the challenge, intending to remake the Red Arrow into a brewery. While some locals, including the handsome Crawford Woody, support Dottie's effort, she braces herself for the battle with the old-fashioned town disapproving of alcohol and any novelties. Fans of drama, romance, and women's fiction will enjoy Back to Blue Holly by Beth Pride.

Beth Pride's Back to Blue Holly is a stirring debut that touches readers deeply, motivating them to achieve their goals no matter what. Dottie's insecurities bring her closer to the reader. Beth uses Dottie to demonstrate that we can turn our insecurities into strengths. The author encourages us to try something new even if it seems scary. The renovation of the Red Arrow is a powerful metaphor for rebuilding Dottie's life. At first, the store looks horrible, but Dottie and her helpers gradually restore it despite obstacles and dangers. Beth portrays Dottie as a woman who can fiercely fight her adversaries, like Fannie Fraser, an old foe of Aunt Lois. Yet, Dottie has a gentle soul and a compassionate heart. Her search for inner clarity drives the riveting first-person narration. Beth crafts endearing secondary characters, like the larger-than-life Rosa Lee, and adds a thrilling touch of mystery and a beautiful romance to this character-driven novel with exciting twists and a satisfying ending.

Reviewed by Emma Megan for Readers' Favorite

The Other Side of Nothing by Anastasia Zadeik is a powerful and moving novel. It follows Julia Reeves, an eighteen-year-old, as she tries to find a way to escape from the pain and guilt that consume her. Her father made her believe in a world of beauty, poetry, grace, and second chances, but now he is gone forever. She failed once again to end the feelings of agonizing numbness and emptiness. Fortunately, Julia wants to believe in something again, so she decides to check herself into a psychiatric facility. Soon, she meets Sam Lorenzo, a 23-year-old suicide attempt survivor. Sam makes her believe in a future filled with beauty, no guilt, and one with him. Thus, she agrees when he asks her to see places, create things, and immortalize beauty together. She now believes they can save and fix each other. But will Julia be able to save Sam from himself?

The Other Side of Nothing is an insightful novel about loss, mental illness and its challenges, second chances, love, hope, and moving on. Anastasia Zadeik delivers some of the most interesting, in-depth, and thoughtfully crafted characters I've ever encountered, particularly Sam. This story reminds us that we can never truly know what's in the mind or soul of another person. It shows the importance of love, understanding, and acceptance within a family, asking for help when feeling overwhelmed, and talking openly about mental health. It explores the desire to live courageously, to control your own life, to accept who you are, and to choose your own path. This is one of those absorbing stories that leave a handprint on our hearts, and we can all learn something from it.

Reviewed by Jessica Barbosa for Readers' Favorite

Joey Cabot was a seasoned author of historical novels, and there was one story she had been dying to write: Lola Grayson’s life story. Lola Grayson wanted to have it all: fame, fortune, and love. And for a time, she did have it all, until her unexpected death that shocked the world. It was both tragic and unexpected for someone so young and at the peak of their career. Joey had always been drawn to the charismatic young woman and wanted to know about her, who she really was, and what lay at the heart of her character. When an opportunity strikes in the form of Lola Grayson and Robert Taggart's former home in Los Angeles, Joey takes it, eager to get to know more of “The Siren” behind the scenes. Little does she know just how big her story will be, especially after uncovering several of Lola’s secrets that could change everything. Read The Girl Made of Stars by K.E. Le Veque to find out more.

The Girl Made of Stars by K.E. Le Veque was a captivating story that led me through an immersive and thought-provoking mystery. The narrative and characters were so descriptive, and the plot was full of twists that kept me guessing the more I read. The writing was lyrical and gripping; it pulled me deeper into the story with every chapter I finished. Following Joey Cabot as she discovered more and more of Lola Grayson’s past made me lose track of time. Every new secret Joey uncovered had me on the edge of my seat and excited for more. What truly made this novel stand out was its ability to evoke deep emotions in me: tears, laughter, and awe. The biggest twist of the plot actually had me screaming in shock. The Girl Made of Stars is a unique read that not only entertained me to the very end but also left a lasting impression. Great work!

Reviewed by Makeda Cummings for Readers' Favorite

Lunch Tales: Suellen by Lucille Guarino tells the captivating story of a successful 28-year-old female attorney working in a reputable law firm. Suellen gains tremendous support from her work friends through their lunch conversations. She is a firm believer in living large. Having inherited generational wealth from her family, she enjoys the finer things in life, which include shopping trips and romantic escapades. Suellen ends her relationship with her current fling, Steve, but catches the attention of Adam, a former classmate. Trouble brews nearby in the form of an obsessive stalker. In the interim, Suellen, who has a self-destructive nature, seems hell-bent on impairing her relationship with Adam. She receives an unexpected medical diagnosis that sends her into a downward spiral. Can she muster the courage to confront her fears and herself?

Lucille Guarino has crafted a poignant and well-written literary treasure dedicated to powerful female friendships and the supportive family ties that get them through the worst moments in their lives. This novel is filled with unforgettable characters like Suellen and Teagan, her best friend and closest confidante. I love the robust character evolution portrayed throughout the book. Every character is fully realized and authentic. Suellen, in particular, is a strong protagonist whose character arc will create an unforgettable read for readers. During her inspirational journey, Suellen learns a lot about loving herself, appreciating the crucial relationships around her, and tapping into her inner strength to confront the trials in her life. The emotional depth in Lunch Tales: Suellen will resound with readers who enjoy novels centered around intricate human relationships. If you are a fan of women's fiction, you should definitely get your hands on a copy of this riveting read.

Reviewed by Carol Thompson for Readers' Favorite

Tailing Grace, the fifth book in Annette G. Anders’ Colors of Happiness series, introduces readers to the vibrant world of Grace Petrucci, a fiercely independent woman who runs a flight school and air charter business on Martha’s Vineyard. Grace is a grounded character—both literally and figuratively—who is unapologetic about her choices. When her cousin Landon invites her to his surprise Las Vegas wedding, she unexpectedly reconnects with Ashton, a family acquaintance from her past. Ashton, now a life coach, is a man whose success has been shaped by personal growth, and his reappearance in Grace’s life is filled with tension that keeps readers turning the pages.

The novel's strength lies in Annette G. Anders’ ability to write witty, authentic dialogue and the natural, engaging development of Grace and Ashton’s relationship. The story explores themes of family, trust, and the vulnerability of allowing someone from your past into your life. Grace’s hesitation to embrace love mirrors Ashton’s personal journey, and their interplay is relatable and deeply engaging, getting readers invested in their story and caring about both characters. Tailing Grace is a delightful mix of humor, romance, and introspection. Readers will find themselves rooting for Grace and Ashton, two likable characters, as they navigate their past and present, making this a heartfelt story of love and self-discovery. The novel is filled with charm, laughter, romantic tension, and pop culture, making it an enjoyable read for fans of contemporary romance. You’ll need to read it to learn if what happens in Vegas truly stays in Vegas.

Reviewed by Nino Lobiladze for Readers' Favorite

When People Leave: A Story of Love, Lies, and Finding the Truth by Leslie A. Rasmussen will appeal to fans of dramas, mysteries, and women's fiction. A successful realtor, Carla Weiss takes her own life and leaves her three daughters, Morgan, Charlotte, and Abby, inconsolable. The sisters decide to solve their mother's death. The search leads them to Las Vegas and New York as an old friend reveals astonishing facts about Carla's past. Morgan fights addiction, Charlotte is stuck in a frustrating relationship, and Abby is a tired housewife craving a more fulfilling life. Are they ready for the truth that may turn their lives upside down?

Leslie A. Rasmussen's When People Leave is a poignant and compelling story narrated with an intriguing touch of irony. The author skillfully depicts how the search for the cause of their mother's death ultimately turns into an eye-opening inner quest for the three sisters. Carla and her three daughters are complex characters. The author delves into their internal conflicts and struggles, warning us that even the well-hidden secrets may harm those we love the most. The book is honest and thought-provoking. Every sister has her distinctive coping mechanism affecting her decisions and choices. Surprisingly, Abby, a courageous mother of four children, seems more vulnerable than the sarcastic Morgan or the insecure Charlotte. The empathetic reader will realize that what happened to them can happen to any of us. Rasmussen adds sparks of humor to the twisty narrative and ends it on a satisfying high note.

Reviewed by K.C. Finn for Readers' Favorite

Stumbling Stones is a work of fiction in the historical fiction, interpersonal drama, and sociocultural writing subgenres. It is best suited to the general adult reading audience. Penned by author Bonnie Suchman, the novel follows the life of Alice Heppenheimer, a woman born into a successful German Jewish family at the turn of the twentieth century. Despite the limitations put upon her by her family, Alice convinces them to allow her to attend art school and pursue a career in women's fashion. As she thrives in her career and settles into married life, Nazi Germany emerges, posing an existential threat to Jewish people like Alice. The novel chronicles Alice's harrowing struggles as she navigates the challenges of persecution and hatred. Despite reluctance to leave her home, Alice faces the ultimate question: Can she and her husband escape Nazi Germany in time?

Author Bonnie Suchman has crafted an immersive and atmospheric work that offers a poignant journey through a tumultuous and dark period in human history. Suchman masterfully portrays Alice's strength and determination amid unimaginable adversity by employing a detailed, up-close narrative that engages with her every psychological and emotional response. It’s easy to see how her attitudes shift as the horrifying persecution of her people begins, yet everything unfolds naturally without the reader being spoon-fed her pain and suffering. The narrative captures the essence of a woman driven to achieve, even in the face of persecution, highlighting the incredible capacity that people have to survive against the odds. This inspirational tone carries into the atmosphere and descriptive feel of the novel, always offering a silver lining. As the story unfolds, the tension builds, leaving readers on edge as they root for Alice and her husband's survival. Overall, Stumbling Stones is a compelling and thought-provoking novel that I would not hesitate to recommend.

Reviewed by Saifunnissa Hassam for Readers' Favorite

Linda Joy Myers' The Forger of Marseille is set in WWII, as Europe falls into the terrifying grip of Hitler and Nazi Germany. The story is inspired by the historical figure of Varian Fry, an American journalist who helped countless refugees escape from France. Sarah Rosen is 19, a Jew living in 1939 Berlin. Joshua Lieb, a Jew and master luthier, has been like a father to Sarah since her childhood days when she lost her father. As the persecution of the Jews intensifies, Sarah and Joshua flee from Berlin to France. In Paris, Sarah pursues her dream of being an artist. César Garcia is from Catalonian Spain and works for an underground organization as a forger of new identities and documents for refugees. Sarah becomes a forger when she meets César. In 1940, Hitler's forces advanced toward Paris. Sarah, Joshua, and César escape to Marseilles. Sarah continues to be a forger for the French underground resistance. This well-researched and well-crafted novel's suspense and tension continue to the end!

I was deeply moved by Linda Joy Myers' compelling historical novel, The Forger of Marseille, because of its three exceptional characters, Sarah Rosen, Joshua Lieb, and César Garcia, and their unflinching courage and commitment to helping others find freedom under life-threatening circumstances. From the outset, I was immersed in the story as the lives of the three characters unfolded against the backdrop of evocative and gripping wartime descriptions. I liked their backstories and how Sarah and Joshua got to know César in Paris. Some of the story’s most powerful and emotional moments occur as Sarah, Joshua, and César flee Paris to Marseille. In a difficult journey, each protects the other, finding inner strength as they face life-threatening situations. I liked how thoughts and emotions are interwoven, revealing their fears, hopes, pain, and anguish of losing each other in vivid and realistic ways. I liked the interpersonal drama of Sarah's meeting with the American journalist Varian Fry and how Sarah joined his team of forgers. The Forger of Marseille is gripping WWII historical fiction with extraordinary characters, a tale of incredible fortitude, resilience, love, and friendships.

Reviewed by Gaius Konstantine for Readers' Favorite

“And when you're completely alone, will that mean you've won? Or lost?” Losing My Breath by J Rose Black is not just a typical love story; it is also the tale of a man who stands on the edge of the abyss. Callan Brand, an ex-marine residing in a Chicago apartment building, is efficient and organized, but he is a man who observes life rather than living it. He is a good person who believes himself to be a monster and exists in a self-created void, pushing away anyone who gets too close to him. However, his life unexpectedly changes when he gets a new neighbor named Meridian Daly, a beautiful woman inside and out. Initially, Callan protects her, but ultimately, she may be the one to save him and remind the troubled young man that life is worth living.

Losing My Breath by J Rose Black is like a heartwarming contemporary fairy tale for adults. It features a combat-boot-wearing Prince Charming and a feisty modern-day princess. The plot and themes revolve around a man who is afraid to love and unable to escape his past and a woman who reminds him that what he lost is not as great as what he can lose in the future. Character development is outstanding, and a believable cast makes the story highly immersive and engaging. The pace is perfect and realistic, evoking nostalgia about past loves and days long gone. Losing My Breath combines love, romance, comedy, and redemption, making it an exemplary read for fans of the genre.