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Ruled by Fate
Book One - The Forbidden Tears Series
Sam Withrow and Amelia Pinkis
2024 Finalist
288 Pages
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Romance - Comedy
Reviewed by K.J. Simmill for Readers' Favorite
In Ruled by Fate: Book One - The Forbidden Tears Series by Sam Withrow and Amelia Pinkis, everything occurred on that fateful day when Brie lost her mother. She had seen the inexplicable, lived through it, and then watched as everything she knew changed. Her father lost himself in work and the bottle while years of therapy convinced her that what she saw was just a manifestation of the trauma. Nothing she had experienced was real. It was imagined, a story that her mind had created. So why, when she broke an imaginary promise, had things turned deadly? She was about to start a new life and leave everything behind. But sometimes the past isn’t finished with you. With the new start came complications. Her life was shrouded in questions and darkness, and with an enemy that she would never have imagined circling, her only chance was to unlock the truth that her guardian seemed to have been keeping from her. For five years he had stayed hidden, watching her, keeping her safe, and now there was no option but to reveal himself.
The first book in any series is always a make-or-break for me. I was hooked from the start. Something about Brie’s character called to me. Sam Withrow and Amelia Pinkis unlock curiosity, suspicion, and intrigue, compelling the reader to continue. As the plot unfolds, their world just becomes more vivid and more vibrant as characters come to life, ensnaring the reader’s attention effortlessly. Humor, intrigue, magic, questions, forbidden romance, and threats seep into every page. I loved Cameron’s character, and the comments made about him as he tried to understand a world that he had only seen in fleeting moments. Ruled by Fate is a perfect example of how a series should be written, with flair, character, and passion. It is also complete, as the main story arc has been explored, but there is so much more to come, and I’m dying to know what happens next. It was the whole package, everything I love in a book and more.
In Ruled by Fate: Book One - The Forbidden Tears Series by Sam Withrow and Amelia Pinkis, everything occurred on that fateful day when Brie lost her mother. She had seen the inexplicable, lived through it, and then watched as everything she knew changed. Her father lost himself in work and the bottle while years of therapy convinced her that what she saw was just a manifestation of the trauma. Nothing she had experienced was real. It was imagined, a story that her mind had created. So why, when she broke an imaginary promise, had things turned deadly? She was about to start a new life and leave everything behind. But sometimes the past isn’t finished with you. With the new start came complications. Her life was shrouded in questions and darkness, and with an enemy that she would never have imagined circling, her only chance was to unlock the truth that her guardian seemed to have been keeping from her. For five years he had stayed hidden, watching her, keeping her safe, and now there was no option but to reveal himself.
The first book in any series is always a make-or-break for me. I was hooked from the start. Something about Brie’s character called to me. Sam Withrow and Amelia Pinkis unlock curiosity, suspicion, and intrigue, compelling the reader to continue. As the plot unfolds, their world just becomes more vivid and more vibrant as characters come to life, ensnaring the reader’s attention effortlessly. Humor, intrigue, magic, questions, forbidden romance, and threats seep into every page. I loved Cameron’s character, and the comments made about him as he tried to understand a world that he had only seen in fleeting moments. Ruled by Fate is a perfect example of how a series should be written, with flair, character, and passion. It is also complete, as the main story arc has been explored, but there is so much more to come, and I’m dying to know what happens next. It was the whole package, everything I love in a book and more.
Recommend this book:
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Soulmate, Stage Right
Love Scenes, Book One
Bixby Jones
2024 Honorable Mention
235 Pages
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Romance - Comedy
Reviewed by Emma Megan for Readers' Favorite
Soulmate, Stage Right: Love Scenes, Book One by Bixby Jones is a delightful romance story with entertaining plot twists. Abby Devlin, a drama teacher, is shocked to discover that Dalton Giles (Dean Altman,) a living, breathing work of art and a soap opera star, is auditioning for a role at McMillan Playhouse. Abby believes that Dalton is hiding something. Live theater is hard work, and it's not for everyone. Even though he is her new leading man and her play is a three-month commitment, she gives him only two weeks. She has had her share of bad experiences with smooth talkers, so she is convinced she will see straight through Dalton's charms. But Dalton also has had his share of bad experiences. Will they be able to work together and respect each other, or will they end up fighting and giving up?
Soulmate, Stage Right: Love Scenes by Bixby Jones has some of the best and most realistic dialogue between characters I've ever read. The author's engaging and evocative writing style makes this book worth the read. The narrative flow is consistent, and the characters are so alive, intense, and beautifully flawed. This story won me over with its sizzling tension, undeniable chemistry, and considerable focus on post-divorce issues and single parenthood. This book is filled with the right amount of intrigue, romance, turmoil, and surprising twists. Even though there are many heartbreaking scenes, they serve the story pretty well. This spellbinding tale of raw emotions, real love, and dangerous assumptions will appeal to contemporary romance fans.
Soulmate, Stage Right: Love Scenes, Book One by Bixby Jones is a delightful romance story with entertaining plot twists. Abby Devlin, a drama teacher, is shocked to discover that Dalton Giles (Dean Altman,) a living, breathing work of art and a soap opera star, is auditioning for a role at McMillan Playhouse. Abby believes that Dalton is hiding something. Live theater is hard work, and it's not for everyone. Even though he is her new leading man and her play is a three-month commitment, she gives him only two weeks. She has had her share of bad experiences with smooth talkers, so she is convinced she will see straight through Dalton's charms. But Dalton also has had his share of bad experiences. Will they be able to work together and respect each other, or will they end up fighting and giving up?
Soulmate, Stage Right: Love Scenes by Bixby Jones has some of the best and most realistic dialogue between characters I've ever read. The author's engaging and evocative writing style makes this book worth the read. The narrative flow is consistent, and the characters are so alive, intense, and beautifully flawed. This story won me over with its sizzling tension, undeniable chemistry, and considerable focus on post-divorce issues and single parenthood. This book is filled with the right amount of intrigue, romance, turmoil, and surprising twists. Even though there are many heartbreaking scenes, they serve the story pretty well. This spellbinding tale of raw emotions, real love, and dangerous assumptions will appeal to contemporary romance fans.
Recommend this book:
The Backup Princess
A Sweet Royal Enemies to Lovers Romcom
Kate O'Keeffe
2024 Bronze Medal
374 Pages
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Romance - Comedy
Reviewed by Priya Mathew for Readers' Favorite
In The Backup Princess, author Kate O’Keeffe rekindles the feelings I had when I watched The Princess Diaries for the first time. Maddie, a sales assistant at a glazing company from Houston, experiences a life-altering surprise when she discovers she could be the next in line to the throne of Malveaux, a small European country, because of her late mother’s lineage. Stepping into a new country, learning new rules of comportment, and absorbing the history and language of Malveaux, her path crosses with Alex, aka Prince Alexander Archibald George Canossa, the heir of Ledonia, a neighboring country. Although their first meeting doesn’t go as planned, and though both have preconceived notions about each other, they learn that all may not be as they thought. As the days go by and they attend various functions together and participate in The Games, they realize their bond goes beyond mere friendship and that they could be each other’s soulmate. Will they be able to overcome ancient rules to find their forever happiness?
The Backup Princess by Kate O’Keeffe is one to pick up if you are looking for a light read that will not put you through an emotional wringer. The story effectively presents a variety of relatable characters. Maddie comes across as someone down-to-earth, reflective, humorous, and sarcastic. Alex is charming and diplomatic, yet also grounded and introspective while longing for a meaningful connection. Adding to the flavor of the storyline are the rest of the characters, including Alex’s and Maddie’s families, and Maddie’s friend Chloe. The reference to McHottie brought back memories of watching Grey’s Anatomy. The story is told from the point of view of Alex and Maddie, with the reports from a royal correspondent Fabiana Fontaine acting as the third point of view in the narrative. I loved the snippets of humor in the narrative. Whether it was the conversations between Maddie and her grandma or Alex and his siblings, this made Maddie’s experiences more relatable and entertaining. If you are looking for a relaxing read at the end of a stressful day, I suggest this book.
In The Backup Princess, author Kate O’Keeffe rekindles the feelings I had when I watched The Princess Diaries for the first time. Maddie, a sales assistant at a glazing company from Houston, experiences a life-altering surprise when she discovers she could be the next in line to the throne of Malveaux, a small European country, because of her late mother’s lineage. Stepping into a new country, learning new rules of comportment, and absorbing the history and language of Malveaux, her path crosses with Alex, aka Prince Alexander Archibald George Canossa, the heir of Ledonia, a neighboring country. Although their first meeting doesn’t go as planned, and though both have preconceived notions about each other, they learn that all may not be as they thought. As the days go by and they attend various functions together and participate in The Games, they realize their bond goes beyond mere friendship and that they could be each other’s soulmate. Will they be able to overcome ancient rules to find their forever happiness?
The Backup Princess by Kate O’Keeffe is one to pick up if you are looking for a light read that will not put you through an emotional wringer. The story effectively presents a variety of relatable characters. Maddie comes across as someone down-to-earth, reflective, humorous, and sarcastic. Alex is charming and diplomatic, yet also grounded and introspective while longing for a meaningful connection. Adding to the flavor of the storyline are the rest of the characters, including Alex’s and Maddie’s families, and Maddie’s friend Chloe. The reference to McHottie brought back memories of watching Grey’s Anatomy. The story is told from the point of view of Alex and Maddie, with the reports from a royal correspondent Fabiana Fontaine acting as the third point of view in the narrative. I loved the snippets of humor in the narrative. Whether it was the conversations between Maddie and her grandma or Alex and his siblings, this made Maddie’s experiences more relatable and entertaining. If you are looking for a relaxing read at the end of a stressful day, I suggest this book.
Recommend this book:
I Accidentally Summoned a Demon Boyfriend
Jessica Cage
2024 Silver Medal
319 Pages
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Romance - Comedy
Reviewed by Olga Markova for Readers' Favorite
I Accidentally Summoned a Demon Boyfriend by award-winning and bestselling author Jessica Cage is an exhilarating paranormal fantasy romance. Rayna is 36, a successful artist, and a digital marketer. She has a wonderful home, good friends, and loyal clients. But she is the last single girl among her friends. A never-ending string of bad dates makes Rayna wonder if it is high time to buy a few cats and head for the mountains, never to be seen again. But then she remembers a fantasy book where all it took to conjure up a perfect boyfriend was a special candle, some oils, a feather, and a dance in the moonlight. Ignoring her grandma’s warnings against playing with magic, strong-headed Rayna braves the spell. Before long, a demon appears in her bedroom. Was it the effect of Rayna's wine or the spell?
Jessica Cage’s I Accidentally Summoned a Demon Boyfriend is an awesome tale of romance and magic. Witty bickering, mind games glittering with hilarious humor, and jaw-dropping magical adventures unfold against the rich tapestry of ecological disasters, diversity and inclusion, friendship, unrequited love, and life-changing kindness. Rayna is a piece of work, and demon Metice is a lover to die for. But for me, the real show stealer was Pico, the apricot-smelling magical blue pet dog who instantly won my heart. The author intended this riveting tale for single women over thirty, but I think it will also thrill readers of any age and gender who enjoy adult humor, magic, and unconventional romance. Graphic erotic scenes, gore, and profanity make this story suitable for mature adults only.
I Accidentally Summoned a Demon Boyfriend by award-winning and bestselling author Jessica Cage is an exhilarating paranormal fantasy romance. Rayna is 36, a successful artist, and a digital marketer. She has a wonderful home, good friends, and loyal clients. But she is the last single girl among her friends. A never-ending string of bad dates makes Rayna wonder if it is high time to buy a few cats and head for the mountains, never to be seen again. But then she remembers a fantasy book where all it took to conjure up a perfect boyfriend was a special candle, some oils, a feather, and a dance in the moonlight. Ignoring her grandma’s warnings against playing with magic, strong-headed Rayna braves the spell. Before long, a demon appears in her bedroom. Was it the effect of Rayna's wine or the spell?
Jessica Cage’s I Accidentally Summoned a Demon Boyfriend is an awesome tale of romance and magic. Witty bickering, mind games glittering with hilarious humor, and jaw-dropping magical adventures unfold against the rich tapestry of ecological disasters, diversity and inclusion, friendship, unrequited love, and life-changing kindness. Rayna is a piece of work, and demon Metice is a lover to die for. But for me, the real show stealer was Pico, the apricot-smelling magical blue pet dog who instantly won my heart. The author intended this riveting tale for single women over thirty, but I think it will also thrill readers of any age and gender who enjoy adult humor, magic, and unconventional romance. Graphic erotic scenes, gore, and profanity make this story suitable for mature adults only.
Recommend this book:
That Thing You Brew
Kerry Evelyn
2024 Gold Medal
276 Pages
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Romance - Comedy
Reviewed by Demetria Head for Readers' Favorite
In Kerry Evelyn's That Thing You Brew, Denver Edge’s star defenseman Xavier finds his life intertwined with that of Penny, a shy barista at the Bevvie Bar whose toffee coffee seems to bring him luck on the ice. The slush-filled streets of Palmer City match Xavier’s mood as he races to his favorite coffee shop, only to discover it has been sold, potentially losing his pre-game ritual and the woman behind it. Amidst this turmoil, Xavier is confronted with a family obligation: to marry soon or lose his inheritance. With his performance already under scrutiny after missing several games, Xavier must navigate his feelings for Penny and the looming threat to his career, all while trying to fulfill his grandfather's dying wish. The stakes are high, and time is running out for Xavier to find a way to save the Bevvie Bar, win Penny’s heart, and secure his future both on and off the ice.
What makes That Thing You Brew stand out in the romantic comedy genre is its seamless blend of humor, heartfelt moments, and engaging character development. Xavier's journey is compelling, balancing his professional challenges with personal dilemmas, while Penny’s evolution from a reserved barista to a pivotal character adds depth to the narrative. The plot intertwines their lives through witty coffee cup messages and shared moments, creating a slow-burn romance that keeps readers invested. Kerry Evelyn masterfully weaves multiple storylines, from the high-energy world of professional hockey to the cozy charm of the Bevvie Bar, making the setting both vibrant and relatable. Fans of the genre will appreciate the chemistry between Xavier and Penny, the stakes that drive the narrative, and the delightful mix of romance and comedy. With its unique premise, memorable characters, and a satisfying blend of tension and humor, That Thing You Brew is a must-read for anyone seeking a heartwarming and entertaining romantic escape.
In Kerry Evelyn's That Thing You Brew, Denver Edge’s star defenseman Xavier finds his life intertwined with that of Penny, a shy barista at the Bevvie Bar whose toffee coffee seems to bring him luck on the ice. The slush-filled streets of Palmer City match Xavier’s mood as he races to his favorite coffee shop, only to discover it has been sold, potentially losing his pre-game ritual and the woman behind it. Amidst this turmoil, Xavier is confronted with a family obligation: to marry soon or lose his inheritance. With his performance already under scrutiny after missing several games, Xavier must navigate his feelings for Penny and the looming threat to his career, all while trying to fulfill his grandfather's dying wish. The stakes are high, and time is running out for Xavier to find a way to save the Bevvie Bar, win Penny’s heart, and secure his future both on and off the ice.
What makes That Thing You Brew stand out in the romantic comedy genre is its seamless blend of humor, heartfelt moments, and engaging character development. Xavier's journey is compelling, balancing his professional challenges with personal dilemmas, while Penny’s evolution from a reserved barista to a pivotal character adds depth to the narrative. The plot intertwines their lives through witty coffee cup messages and shared moments, creating a slow-burn romance that keeps readers invested. Kerry Evelyn masterfully weaves multiple storylines, from the high-energy world of professional hockey to the cozy charm of the Bevvie Bar, making the setting both vibrant and relatable. Fans of the genre will appreciate the chemistry between Xavier and Penny, the stakes that drive the narrative, and the delightful mix of romance and comedy. With its unique premise, memorable characters, and a satisfying blend of tension and humor, That Thing You Brew is a must-read for anyone seeking a heartwarming and entertaining romantic escape.
Recommend this book:
Brianna
Always a Bridesmaid - Book 11
Kathryn Hills
2023 Finalist
106 Pages
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Romance - Comedy
Reviewed by Gitel Hesselberg for Readers' Favorite
Some people like to stay at home. Brianna Hart is not one of them. Brianna: Always a Bridesmaid, Book 11 by Kathryn Hills is the story of a young woman who is a travel influencer, always on the go. She is off on a travel adventure when she isn’t being a bridesmaid at her brother’s wedding, a friend’s wedding, or involved in a charitable endeavor. For Brianna, there is no time to deal with an audit from the IRS. John Smith is a CPA and tax attorney for her father’s firm. Her father has arranged for John to help Brianna with the audit. Unfortunately for John, this means traveling with Brianna on her latest escapades. This is not something the strait-laced attorney would have chosen.
Brianna: Always a Bridesmaid by Kathryn Hills is an easy and fun read. It’s easy to like Brianna, a lovely inside-and-out woman with a kind heart. I genuinely enjoyed watching her melt the heart of John Smith, who, at first glance, seems very cold, aloof, and quite uptight, not to mention boring. But John is no match for Brianna. She’s not the woman he initially thought her to be, and when he gets to know the real Brianna, he can’t help but want to protect her, and it isn’t long before his feelings become even stronger. Both Brianna and John are characters who are easy to care about. I'm sure everyone will want to see Brianna have a chance to be the bride instead of the bridesmaid.
Some people like to stay at home. Brianna Hart is not one of them. Brianna: Always a Bridesmaid, Book 11 by Kathryn Hills is the story of a young woman who is a travel influencer, always on the go. She is off on a travel adventure when she isn’t being a bridesmaid at her brother’s wedding, a friend’s wedding, or involved in a charitable endeavor. For Brianna, there is no time to deal with an audit from the IRS. John Smith is a CPA and tax attorney for her father’s firm. Her father has arranged for John to help Brianna with the audit. Unfortunately for John, this means traveling with Brianna on her latest escapades. This is not something the strait-laced attorney would have chosen.
Brianna: Always a Bridesmaid by Kathryn Hills is an easy and fun read. It’s easy to like Brianna, a lovely inside-and-out woman with a kind heart. I genuinely enjoyed watching her melt the heart of John Smith, who, at first glance, seems very cold, aloof, and quite uptight, not to mention boring. But John is no match for Brianna. She’s not the woman he initially thought her to be, and when he gets to know the real Brianna, he can’t help but want to protect her, and it isn’t long before his feelings become even stronger. Both Brianna and John are characters who are easy to care about. I'm sure everyone will want to see Brianna have a chance to be the bride instead of the bridesmaid.
Recommend this book:
Loving the Wrong Guy
Suitor Science
Holly Kerr
2023 Bronze Medal
247 Pages
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Romance - Comedy
Reviewed by Christine Nguyen for Readers' Favorite
Loving the Wrong Guy by Holly Kerr is a fun and entertaining read. Demi is a trusting and sweet soul from Toronto, Canada, who has taken a weekend trip to Las Vegas. Her boyfriend back home, Justin, does not like that she goes anywhere alone and always makes her feel guilty. Demi meets new friends she instantly connects with on her trip. Chrissa is a tough chick with an even scarier exterior, and Tad is a gentleman who is very proficient at card games and wears suspenders. After a wild night of dancing and gambling, the trio runs into Justin, and all hell breaks loose. Demi realizes that Justin is the wrong guy for her and wants to escape him. Tad rents a Mustang, taking Demi and Chrissa on a spontaneous cross-country road trip to get Demi back home to Toronto.
Holly Kerr takes readers on an adventurous road trip with three distinct and charismatic characters. The fantastic chemistry between Demi, Chrissa, and Tad, with their instant friendship, kept me highly entertained. Their dialogue and interaction were witty and realistic. The storyline and plot are lighthearted and engaging as Demi deals with the aftermath of her breakup while developing feelings for Tad. The sexual tension between Demi and Tad was sweet and tender, reminiscent of a high school crush. The pace is steady and flows easily as the road trip continues, and creative surprises pop up for some comedic and light relief. Loving the Wrong Guy is a great escape from dealing with a breakup!
Loving the Wrong Guy by Holly Kerr is a fun and entertaining read. Demi is a trusting and sweet soul from Toronto, Canada, who has taken a weekend trip to Las Vegas. Her boyfriend back home, Justin, does not like that she goes anywhere alone and always makes her feel guilty. Demi meets new friends she instantly connects with on her trip. Chrissa is a tough chick with an even scarier exterior, and Tad is a gentleman who is very proficient at card games and wears suspenders. After a wild night of dancing and gambling, the trio runs into Justin, and all hell breaks loose. Demi realizes that Justin is the wrong guy for her and wants to escape him. Tad rents a Mustang, taking Demi and Chrissa on a spontaneous cross-country road trip to get Demi back home to Toronto.
Holly Kerr takes readers on an adventurous road trip with three distinct and charismatic characters. The fantastic chemistry between Demi, Chrissa, and Tad, with their instant friendship, kept me highly entertained. Their dialogue and interaction were witty and realistic. The storyline and plot are lighthearted and engaging as Demi deals with the aftermath of her breakup while developing feelings for Tad. The sexual tension between Demi and Tad was sweet and tender, reminiscent of a high school crush. The pace is steady and flows easily as the road trip continues, and creative surprises pop up for some comedic and light relief. Loving the Wrong Guy is a great escape from dealing with a breakup!
Recommend this book:
Ale's Fair in Love and War
An Enemies-to-Lovers Romance
Sylvie Stewart
2023 Silver Medal
330 Pages
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Romance - Comedy
Reviewed by Stephanie Chapman for Readers' Favorite
Sylvie Stewart's romance novel Ale's Fair in Love and War features two small business owners who have been pulling pranks on each other. Cash Brooks owns Blue Bigfoot Beer Brewery, and Hollis owns the neighboring Happy Tails Salon. Hollis came storming into the brewery, demanding to speak to Cash's younger brother Miller. Hollis' sister had claimed that Miller had broken her heart after sleeping with him, an accusation that he denied. Hollis left, and a health inspector arrived. Cash believed that the inspector was another prank and made snide comments, but the brewery had to make upgrades that would cost close to twenty thousand dollars a month to pass inspection. Hollis confirmed Miller did not lie, but Hadley's story reached her father, Harry. Hollis believed that Harry had a vendetta against the brewery and her pleas fell on deaf ears. Hollis must either help Cash raise the funds to save his brewery or bear the guilt that her family had cost him his livelihood.
Sylvie Stewart wrote engaging dialogue between Hollis and Cash. The snarky remarks and sarcasm are witty and relatable. The pranks played by Hollis were mainly innocent, although Cash wasn't convinced when Hollis insisted that she didn't call a health inspector. This led to a lot of trust issues between them. I found Cash taking over as the father figure in his family to be noble. His mother Ginny seemed to have lost her mind. I found it strange that she had a pet skunk and said some off-the-wall things to Hollis. Carter seemed level-headed, but he disappeared randomly. Every character's personality was vivid and distinct, making it easy to identify with them. The alternating perspectives of Hollis and Cash gave an in-depth view of their thoughts and insecurities. I recommend Ale's Fair in Love and War to readers who enjoy enemies-to-lovers romance stories filled with humorous interchanges.
Sylvie Stewart's romance novel Ale's Fair in Love and War features two small business owners who have been pulling pranks on each other. Cash Brooks owns Blue Bigfoot Beer Brewery, and Hollis owns the neighboring Happy Tails Salon. Hollis came storming into the brewery, demanding to speak to Cash's younger brother Miller. Hollis' sister had claimed that Miller had broken her heart after sleeping with him, an accusation that he denied. Hollis left, and a health inspector arrived. Cash believed that the inspector was another prank and made snide comments, but the brewery had to make upgrades that would cost close to twenty thousand dollars a month to pass inspection. Hollis confirmed Miller did not lie, but Hadley's story reached her father, Harry. Hollis believed that Harry had a vendetta against the brewery and her pleas fell on deaf ears. Hollis must either help Cash raise the funds to save his brewery or bear the guilt that her family had cost him his livelihood.
Sylvie Stewart wrote engaging dialogue between Hollis and Cash. The snarky remarks and sarcasm are witty and relatable. The pranks played by Hollis were mainly innocent, although Cash wasn't convinced when Hollis insisted that she didn't call a health inspector. This led to a lot of trust issues between them. I found Cash taking over as the father figure in his family to be noble. His mother Ginny seemed to have lost her mind. I found it strange that she had a pet skunk and said some off-the-wall things to Hollis. Carter seemed level-headed, but he disappeared randomly. Every character's personality was vivid and distinct, making it easy to identify with them. The alternating perspectives of Hollis and Cash gave an in-depth view of their thoughts and insecurities. I recommend Ale's Fair in Love and War to readers who enjoy enemies-to-lovers romance stories filled with humorous interchanges.
Recommend this book:
The Backup Groom
Rich Amooi
2023 Gold Medal
334 Pages
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Romance - Comedy
Reviewed by Asher Syed for Readers' Favorite
In Rich Amooi's novel The Backup Groom, the protagonist Amber faces a life-altering decision after her great-uncle's death. The will stipulates that Amber receives a large inheritance only if she marries her former high school sweetheart Ryan Scott within a few weeks. However, her ex-boyfriend is already married, and her evil cousin Mercedes is waiting to claim the inheritance she is entitled to if Amber fails. Amber's quick-witted friend Stella discovers a loophole: Amber can marry someone with the same name as her ex-boyfriend, and the spouse will receive a percentage of the inheritance. Thus, Amber and her friend embark on a wild search for potential suitors with the same name, while Mercedes seeks to undermine her efforts. Meanwhile, a kind coffee shop owner with a convenient name secretly admires Amber, waiting patiently for his divorce to be finalized.
What makes The Backup Groom a delightful read is its witty and over-the-top craziness, and Amber's likable character. While Mercedes is a well-developed but unlikeable character, Amber's humor and relatability make her an endearing protagonist. The star of this book really is Stella, who is the type of BFF that everyone deserves to have. The author's use of quick-witted dialogue and absurd scenarios keeps the story entertaining and leaves the reader rooting for Amber until the end. The search for Amber's 'twin-Ryan' becomes a farcical journey with suitors that range from wholly ridiculous to warmly comical, and the tension between Amber and Mercedes keeps the pages furiously turning. Overall, Rich Ammoi has written an enjoyable novel that explores the theme of personal fulfillment in a romantic comedy that does not reinvent the wheel but certainly flourishes it, with a delightful cast of characters, a satisfying conclusion, and enough humor to keep the reader entertained. Recommended.
In Rich Amooi's novel The Backup Groom, the protagonist Amber faces a life-altering decision after her great-uncle's death. The will stipulates that Amber receives a large inheritance only if she marries her former high school sweetheart Ryan Scott within a few weeks. However, her ex-boyfriend is already married, and her evil cousin Mercedes is waiting to claim the inheritance she is entitled to if Amber fails. Amber's quick-witted friend Stella discovers a loophole: Amber can marry someone with the same name as her ex-boyfriend, and the spouse will receive a percentage of the inheritance. Thus, Amber and her friend embark on a wild search for potential suitors with the same name, while Mercedes seeks to undermine her efforts. Meanwhile, a kind coffee shop owner with a convenient name secretly admires Amber, waiting patiently for his divorce to be finalized.
What makes The Backup Groom a delightful read is its witty and over-the-top craziness, and Amber's likable character. While Mercedes is a well-developed but unlikeable character, Amber's humor and relatability make her an endearing protagonist. The star of this book really is Stella, who is the type of BFF that everyone deserves to have. The author's use of quick-witted dialogue and absurd scenarios keeps the story entertaining and leaves the reader rooting for Amber until the end. The search for Amber's 'twin-Ryan' becomes a farcical journey with suitors that range from wholly ridiculous to warmly comical, and the tension between Amber and Mercedes keeps the pages furiously turning. Overall, Rich Ammoi has written an enjoyable novel that explores the theme of personal fulfillment in a romantic comedy that does not reinvent the wheel but certainly flourishes it, with a delightful cast of characters, a satisfying conclusion, and enough humor to keep the reader entertained. Recommended.
Recommend this book:
Project Kaitlyn
The Sweet Water Circle Book 1
Grayson Avery
2022 Finalist
286 Pages
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Romance - Comedy
Reviewed by Anne-Marie Reynolds for Readers' Favorite
Project Kaitlyn by Grayson Avery is the first book in the Sweet Water Circle series. Kaitlyn Colby has little self-esteem but she is a fighter, there are no two ways about it. She juggles her work and personal life, sharing her child's parenting with her ex-husband, but all this leaves her with no time to find anyone else and she can't imagine that anyone would want a washed-up single mom. Then she meets Hunter Dixon. He hires her to help with advertising on a project and she falls for him, hook, line, and sinker. But she's too shy. Or is she? Can she change? Can she become the confident, outward-going woman she needs to be to entice the man of her dreams?
Project Kaitlyn by Grayson Avery is a hilarious story that will have you chuckling all the way through. The main protagonist may be short on self-esteem but she has more than enough sass to make up for it. She isn’t backward in coming forward, which can lead to some awkward yet funny moments and she is, in part, the kind of woman many of us wish we could be. The main male character is one you will both love and hate - for a while anyway - and the remaining characters, all equally well-developed, fall into place naturally, with their own quirks. Besides being a laugh-out-loud comedy, sometimes of errors, this story also has a message - you will only get what you expect to get. In our current troubled times, this story was a welcome ray of sunshine, a little lightness to brighten up dark days. I look forward to the next in the series.
Project Kaitlyn by Grayson Avery is the first book in the Sweet Water Circle series. Kaitlyn Colby has little self-esteem but she is a fighter, there are no two ways about it. She juggles her work and personal life, sharing her child's parenting with her ex-husband, but all this leaves her with no time to find anyone else and she can't imagine that anyone would want a washed-up single mom. Then she meets Hunter Dixon. He hires her to help with advertising on a project and she falls for him, hook, line, and sinker. But she's too shy. Or is she? Can she change? Can she become the confident, outward-going woman she needs to be to entice the man of her dreams?
Project Kaitlyn by Grayson Avery is a hilarious story that will have you chuckling all the way through. The main protagonist may be short on self-esteem but she has more than enough sass to make up for it. She isn’t backward in coming forward, which can lead to some awkward yet funny moments and she is, in part, the kind of woman many of us wish we could be. The main male character is one you will both love and hate - for a while anyway - and the remaining characters, all equally well-developed, fall into place naturally, with their own quirks. Besides being a laugh-out-loud comedy, sometimes of errors, this story also has a message - you will only get what you expect to get. In our current troubled times, this story was a welcome ray of sunshine, a little lightness to brighten up dark days. I look forward to the next in the series.
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