Reviewed by David Jaggart for Readers' Favorite

I Accidentally Hooked Up with a Vampire by Jessica Cage follows the journey of Whitney, an art broker whose life takes a sudden turn for the worse. Even though she felt confident that she was about to secure a promotion that day, Whitney was unexpectedly fired from her job. In a moment of despair, she decides to drown her disappointment with drinks at a friend's party. Before the end of the night, she becomes intimate with a drop-dead gorgeous gallerist, Domino. Unfortunately, things are too good to be true. Whitney's new beau ends up indirectly unleashing a whirlwind of danger into her life after she discovers he is an actual vampire. Now, she is being hunted by his powerful vampire affiliates because her blood is unique. Her gal pals join the fight with shocking supernatural abilities of their own. Do she and Domino still have a chance at love? Or is this the end of their union and her life?

I Accidentally Hooked Up with a Vampire is a tantalizing addition to Jessica Cage's Accidents Happen series. This paranormal romance is jam-packed with humor, captivating world-building, steamy romance, and an intriguing vampire clan with a surprising connection to the human world. Cage skillfully blends magical lore, suspense, and action into the plot while Whitney, her friends, and Domino race to confront the challenges being hurled in their direction. Romance lovers will fall in love with Whitney and Domino as they navigate their intense connection to each other, all while embarking on an adventure that propels Whitney deeper into embracing Domino's supernatural world. If you are on the prowl for a page-turning, action-packed tale that combines enthralling excitement with searing romantic chemistry, this is the perfect novel.

Reviewed by Grant Leishman for Readers' Favorite

No Plans to Fall by Kiri Patterson is just a wonderfully sweet, small-town romance, with a serious undertone about self-worth and what is important in life. Marissa was tormented by her past and her future. She had never really forgiven herself for surviving the car crash that had killed her parents when she was only fifteen. Taken in by her Nan, and working for the only law firm in town, she has had to adjust to the life of a small town where everyone knows her business and, worse, wants to be in it. She is determined she will not fall for another man after her high-school sweetheart ditched her and is filled with doubts about her worth. Her plan is to one day go to London and fulfill her and her parents’ dream of visiting the city where they spent their honeymoon. When her two best friends convince her to go to the Fall Festival in a neighboring town, little does she realize she will end up in a corn maze with blind date Scott whom she won in a fair-ground competition. Scott is a lawyer and has his future meticulously planned. He wants to be a high-flying corporate lawyer for one of the biggest law firms in town and get the prestige, wealth, and recognition he feels has passed him by. Romance has no place in either of these two people’s plans but fate may yet intervene and change all that.

No Plans to Fall is a fun, sweet, romantic romp and yet it does have a serious side that will get readers thinking. Author Kiri Patterson has cleverly combined a simple, conversational style with some major character aspects that need addressing if either party to this potential romance is going to achieve any happiness. The story is developed from both Marissa's and Scott’s perspectives, with each succeeding chapter alternating between the characters' points of view. This gives a much broader scope as we can see and feel the innermost thoughts and feelings of both protagonists even if they are sometimes blindly obtuse to each other’s feelings. I enjoyed this aspect because when either Marissa or Scott did something or said something that changed the relationship, my immediate response was to wonder how the other partner reacted and what they would do about it. I loved that both characters had such deep-seated insecurities about themselves and that they came from very different environments. A good romance has always been one of my secret reading vices and what I loved about this story is that it is a wonderful romance but also has a thought-provoking subtext. This makes it stand out in the genre. I was pleased to read that a sequel is a real possibility and I want to read more about these lovely characters. I highly recommend this read.

Reviewed by Natasha Jackson for Readers' Favorite

Pucking Dirty is the story of wanting the one thing, or the one person, you can’t have. You can’t get more forbidden than a dirty-talking hockey player and the coach’s daughter, which is what we have here in Nash and Emilia. Her dad has warned the whole team away from his little girl, but when she meets Nash, all bets are off. They like each other and the chemistry is off the charts, but there’s that pesky matter of Emilia being off-limits. Nichole Rose has written a funny and entertaining romance novel with the perfect amount of steam. The characters work well together, and despite being over the top at times, they all feel incredibly down-to-earth.

Pucking Dirty is so sinfully delicious that I had a hard time putting it down, but the story flew by. I really loved Emilia; she was funny and friendly, and so relatable that you couldn’t help but root for her. Whether it was her insecurities regarding her new job or her relationship with her father, you just wanted the best for her. This is the first book in the Pucked Up Love series by Nichole Rose, and it’s off to a great start. A secret romance means lots of fun trysts, pillow talk, and moments of almost getting caught, which made this a fun and exciting read. I loved the banter between the main characters as it highlighted their chemistry, giving a palpable explanation for why they would both risk so much just to be together.

Reviewed by Jamie Michele for Readers' Favorite

Considering Us by Jenn Bouchard is a romance that follows Devon, a private chef who loses her job after her affair with a famous client is discovered. She seeks a fresh start at Rockwood School, where she is offered a position as Dining Services Director. As she settles into her new role, Devon reconnects with Kyle, a former fling and surprise Rockwood colleague, which reignites unresolved feelings from their past. As she juggles her responsibilities and the wild dynamics of a school environment, she faces further complications from a budding relationship with Heath, a paramedic she begins dating. Devon dances between feelings for both men as the scrutiny grows from rumors about her personal life and her family's expectations, and a job offer on the West Coast presents itself.

Considering Us by Jenn Bouchard is an absorbing romance that ticks all the boxes, and a few more for good measure. Can we take a second to talk about the food, though? Devon is a chef of the highest caliber, and I swear there were moments when I almost ate the page. There is one scene where Devon's mother says she prefers store-bought pot pies over homemade ones, and I genuinely wanted to ask if I could have hers. Bouchard's storytelling is great, and even though this is a character-driven story, Bouchard plants some third-party passive-aggressive jealousy that is as delicious as a parfait. The main trio of Devon, Kyle, and Heath all feel authentic, and the dialogue is sharp and realistic, particularly when Tam is on the line. Overall, Considering Us is a rosy, cozy romance with a satisfying ending and I have no doubt contemporary romance fans will enjoy it. Very highly recommended.

Reviewed by Rabia Tanveer for Readers' Favorite

Cruise Crush: The Pinnacle Series Book 1 by Kathleen Allen is set against the luxurious backdrop of a Caribbean cruise. AJ, a wealthy heir preparing to take the reins as CEO of Pinnacle Cruise Line, boards a ship hoping for one last breath of freedom. Meanwhile, DJ, a beautiful and confident former Olympic gymnast turned travel influencer, is enjoying the perks of her latest assignment. Their unexpected meeting quickly sparks chemistry, but they agree to keep their professional lives a secret to enjoy a drama-free fling. As they tour tropical ports and indulge in the entertainment onboard, their playful banter and undeniable spark deepen into something neither expected. But when the truth surfaces, AJ and DJ must decide if their cruise romance can survive reality.

Kathleen Allen writes a classic opposites-attract love story with flair and charm. The pacing is light, with the story being carried by the vibrant characters and sparkling dialogue. AJ’s internal struggle between duty and desire adds emotional depth, while DJ’s independence and authenticity balance their dynamic. Their chemistry feels natural, and the author lets their relationship evolve through small, meaningful moments, not just grand gestures. The cruise setting provides a playful and romantic stage, with vivid descriptions of destinations and shipboard life adding richness to the story. I love romance novels, but this one truly blew me away. I loved the carefree narrative, the connection between AJ and DJ (how cute is that?), and how their story ended. I thoroughly enjoyed this book and highly recommend it!

Reviewed by Nino Lobiladze for Readers' Favorite

Pumpkin Spice Spice Baby by Kerry Evelyn, another installment in the Coffee Loft series, appeals to fans of romance, drama, and sport-themed novels. Tasha Palmer juggles three jobs to pay her huge medical bills. Montgomery Biddington, or Monty, has enough money for a secure future. A second backup for Denver's hockey team mascot, Monty will coach a cheer team with Tasha. It's a big challenge for Tasha as Monty is her former stunt partner. Tasha still cannot forgive Monty for preferring a rival cheerleader over her. But she is tired of her tight financial situation. Tasha hopes that Monty will help her meet a professional hockey player to date. Monty's beloved grandmother Nana BooBoo's stroke, and the unexpected renovation of their Victorian house bring Monty under Tasha's roof as her roommate. Will these two find common ground?

Kerry Evelyn's Pumpkin Spice Spice Baby is a delightful, playful, yet clean romcom. At the same time, this heartfelt, entertaining story has elements of drama and touches on serious topics of celiac disease and food intolerance. The realistic main characters endure many trials to become strong, dedicated professionals with an overwhelming sense of responsibility. It often feels like we are reading about real people with their pain, insecurities, and ambitions. Tasha and Monty become our friends, and we cheer for them to finally sort out their issues with each other. Evelyn skillfully depicts a true friendship between a man and a woman. The book gives hope to lonely and misunderstood people to find friends, such is the power of Evelyn's pen. The well-written, vivid dialogue adds to the emotional narrative the author presents from Tasha's and Monty's points of view. I highly recommend this novel even to those who usually avoid romance because it is so much more than just a simple love story.

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.

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.

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.

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.