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Recommend this book:
That Thing You Brew
Kerry Evelyn
2024 Gold Medal
Kindle Edition
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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
Kindle Edition
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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
263 Pages
Check current price
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
Kindle Edition
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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.
Recommend this book:
Accidental Mobster
A Light Contemporary Reverse Harem Mafia Romance
Daisy Emory
2022 Honorable Mention
Kindle Edition
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Romance - Comedy
Reviewed by Bernadette Longu for Readers' Favorite
Accidental Mobster by Daisy Emory is an exceptional, exciting, page-turning story. The theme is a well-known one of romance, drama, comedy, and the mob but written in one of the most exciting ways ever. The author captures your attention from the opening line on the first page to the last line on the last page. This leaves you slightly frustrated because it ends and you feel that you need more, but Daisy Emory leaves room for you to use your own imagination and look forward to reading other books of hers or even if she writes a sequel to this one. The author leaves room at the end of this lovely book to go any which way, even a sitcom.
Accidental Mobster is set in current times. The main characters are Amelia, Forrest, Dane, Arcadio, Shea, and their boss Stephan Moriarty. The author weaves these characters into Amelia’s life in the most exasperating, exciting, and lovable ways and one keeps reading to see how they all fit together. The plot is full of fun, laughter, drama, a car chase and kidnapping, and more. To find out more about these adventures, you will find yourself reading well into the night. Accidental Mobster by Daisy Emory is a must-read from cover to cover on a lazy winter Sunday before an open fire with oodles of coffee and marshmallows. Or a late-night read after a frustrating day that will bring relaxation, laughter, and fun into an otherwise cruel world. Thank you, Daisy, for putting pen to paper and writing this delightful book.
Accidental Mobster by Daisy Emory is an exceptional, exciting, page-turning story. The theme is a well-known one of romance, drama, comedy, and the mob but written in one of the most exciting ways ever. The author captures your attention from the opening line on the first page to the last line on the last page. This leaves you slightly frustrated because it ends and you feel that you need more, but Daisy Emory leaves room for you to use your own imagination and look forward to reading other books of hers or even if she writes a sequel to this one. The author leaves room at the end of this lovely book to go any which way, even a sitcom.
Accidental Mobster is set in current times. The main characters are Amelia, Forrest, Dane, Arcadio, Shea, and their boss Stephan Moriarty. The author weaves these characters into Amelia’s life in the most exasperating, exciting, and lovable ways and one keeps reading to see how they all fit together. The plot is full of fun, laughter, drama, a car chase and kidnapping, and more. To find out more about these adventures, you will find yourself reading well into the night. Accidental Mobster by Daisy Emory is a must-read from cover to cover on a lazy winter Sunday before an open fire with oodles of coffee and marshmallows. Or a late-night read after a frustrating day that will bring relaxation, laughter, and fun into an otherwise cruel world. Thank you, Daisy, for putting pen to paper and writing this delightful book.
Recommend this book:
Finding My Night
A Boss/Assistant Romantic Comedy (The Finding)
Halo Roberts
2022 Bronze Medal
Kindle Edition
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Romance - Comedy
Reviewed by Cayla-Paige Nortje for Readers' Favorite
What do you do when you have a crush on your boss? You obviously pretend those feelings don’t exist, right? In Finding My Night by Halo Roberts, Bree has landed the perfect job right out of culinary school and, in addition to that, she has her very own eye candy supply on a daily basis. What more could she ask for? Nick shouldn’t be thinking about his personal chef in this way, but the longer she’s in his life, the harder it becomes to ignore his growing feelings. And from those feelings, he has an inkling that a relationship with Bree would be entirely different from the superficial relationships he’s had throughout the years. But would he even want to venture into relationship territory with Bree with the possibility of total heartache if he were to lose her, or will he forfeit potential happiness to protect his heart?
Finding My Night is about taking a chance and wearing our hearts on our sleeves. Halo Roberts has created a lovely story with a comedic element that provides an escape from reality through the love that blooms between the characters. This story shows what can happen when we open ourselves up to love. I also really enjoyed the supporting characters because their inclusion adds to the unique and fun ambiance that runs through the whole story like a golden thread. Multiple perspectives really do provide a deeper connection to each character by having a better understanding of what’s going on in the character’s mind and this added to the value of this story.
What do you do when you have a crush on your boss? You obviously pretend those feelings don’t exist, right? In Finding My Night by Halo Roberts, Bree has landed the perfect job right out of culinary school and, in addition to that, she has her very own eye candy supply on a daily basis. What more could she ask for? Nick shouldn’t be thinking about his personal chef in this way, but the longer she’s in his life, the harder it becomes to ignore his growing feelings. And from those feelings, he has an inkling that a relationship with Bree would be entirely different from the superficial relationships he’s had throughout the years. But would he even want to venture into relationship territory with Bree with the possibility of total heartache if he were to lose her, or will he forfeit potential happiness to protect his heart?
Finding My Night is about taking a chance and wearing our hearts on our sleeves. Halo Roberts has created a lovely story with a comedic element that provides an escape from reality through the love that blooms between the characters. This story shows what can happen when we open ourselves up to love. I also really enjoyed the supporting characters because their inclusion adds to the unique and fun ambiance that runs through the whole story like a golden thread. Multiple perspectives really do provide a deeper connection to each character by having a better understanding of what’s going on in the character’s mind and this added to the value of this story.
Recommend this book:
Summer Flame
A Second Chance Romantic Comedy (A Season's Detour, Book 1)
Hayleigh Sol
2022 Silver Medal
Kindle Edition
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Romance - Comedy
Reviewed by Stephanie Chapman for Readers' Favorite
Hayleigh Sol brings Maya’s dream of environmental awareness to fruition with Summer Flame: A Second Chance Romantic Comedy in which Maya has created her business, Green For Green. Maya is in distress after being told that the immense pressure she is under has caused many of her physical ailments. She landed a major commercial contract to build a hospital, but when she returns to work she learns that her orders for steel for the project have not arrived. Her estranged boyfriend Brad encourages her to make him a partner in her company, as he was already standing in as a manager. Her grandmother tells her that she needs to take another vacation at Bass Lake. While Maya is at Bass Lake, working from her laptop inside a store, she locks eyes with a person from her past; Luca, her first kiss and more from her childhood trips, appears in the store. Recognition is immediate, and they rekindle their relationship. Is this going to be just summer romance again or is there something else growing?
I was sympathetic toward Maya’s insecurities. Hayleigh Sol has created a story that builds romantic suspense with every page, preventing me from putting the book down. Maya’s relationship with Brad caused her a lot of stress, and I felt that he did not have Maya’s interests at heart. I think she knew this deep down but was in denial about whether their four-year relationship could have been wrong. She also had fond memories of Luca, and I hoped they would build a future together. Evan, a supporting character, was important to the plot. I would have turned to Evan for suggestions because he was present every day and did well at Green for Green. The vivid descriptions of Bass Lake make it easy to envision. Readers of romance stories that feature the personal development of a female protagonist will find delight in Summer Flame. This can be a standalone novel, but I am looking forward to reading the rest of the series.
Hayleigh Sol brings Maya’s dream of environmental awareness to fruition with Summer Flame: A Second Chance Romantic Comedy in which Maya has created her business, Green For Green. Maya is in distress after being told that the immense pressure she is under has caused many of her physical ailments. She landed a major commercial contract to build a hospital, but when she returns to work she learns that her orders for steel for the project have not arrived. Her estranged boyfriend Brad encourages her to make him a partner in her company, as he was already standing in as a manager. Her grandmother tells her that she needs to take another vacation at Bass Lake. While Maya is at Bass Lake, working from her laptop inside a store, she locks eyes with a person from her past; Luca, her first kiss and more from her childhood trips, appears in the store. Recognition is immediate, and they rekindle their relationship. Is this going to be just summer romance again or is there something else growing?
I was sympathetic toward Maya’s insecurities. Hayleigh Sol has created a story that builds romantic suspense with every page, preventing me from putting the book down. Maya’s relationship with Brad caused her a lot of stress, and I felt that he did not have Maya’s interests at heart. I think she knew this deep down but was in denial about whether their four-year relationship could have been wrong. She also had fond memories of Luca, and I hoped they would build a future together. Evan, a supporting character, was important to the plot. I would have turned to Evan for suggestions because he was present every day and did well at Green for Green. The vivid descriptions of Bass Lake make it easy to envision. Readers of romance stories that feature the personal development of a female protagonist will find delight in Summer Flame. This can be a standalone novel, but I am looking forward to reading the rest of the series.
Recommend this book:
![](http://pinterest.com/pin/create/button/?url=/book-award/men-or-paws&media=https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/41SJv4PhnmL._SL442_.jpg._AA200_.jpg&description=Men or Paws by Rich Amooi is a sweet, romantic comedy. The offer was one Beth couldn’t turn down - $15,000 for watching one dog for three weeks. What could be easier? The problem is the client isn’t going anywhere. He's staying home and Beth needs to live in the guesthouse. The other problem? He's the man voted "sexiest man alive," Rocco Romano...){kind=link}
Men or Paws
A Romantic Comedy
Rich Amooi
2022 Gold Medal
Kindle Edition
Check current price
Romance - Comedy
Reviewed by Anne-Marie Reynolds for Readers' Favorite
Men or Paws by Rich Amooi is a sweet, romantic comedy. The offer was one Beth couldn’t turn down - $15,000 for watching one dog for three weeks. What could be easier? The problem is the client isn’t going anywhere. He's staying home and Beth needs to live in the guesthouse. The other problem? He's the man voted "sexiest man alive," Rocco Romano, the quintessential bad boy of Hollywood. But that’s okay. He's not Beth's type. The dog is a different matter - he wasn’t called Houdini for fun! An accidental kiss between Beth and Rocco sets off a heart-thumping chain of events and when Houdini escapes, it's just the icing on the cake. Much hilarity ensues with a healthy dose of romance but is this a fairy tale with a happy ending?
Men or Paws by Rich Amooi is a good, clean, fun story that will make you laugh out loud more than once. The characters have great chemistry and are well developed. You'll love the female lead and will eventually come to love the male lead; everyone will love the dog. It's an engaging story with plenty of humor and you'll be egging the characters on to get together. The dialog is simple, the story is easy to follow, and there's plenty going on. It's not a long story and you'll probably read it in or two sittings but it’s a nice way to while away a few hours. The characters are real people in a story that could so easily happen. It's not complicated, there's no twisting, turning plot to try to keep up with - it's just good, clean fun. If you like chick-lit, you'll like this one.
Men or Paws by Rich Amooi is a sweet, romantic comedy. The offer was one Beth couldn’t turn down - $15,000 for watching one dog for three weeks. What could be easier? The problem is the client isn’t going anywhere. He's staying home and Beth needs to live in the guesthouse. The other problem? He's the man voted "sexiest man alive," Rocco Romano, the quintessential bad boy of Hollywood. But that’s okay. He's not Beth's type. The dog is a different matter - he wasn’t called Houdini for fun! An accidental kiss between Beth and Rocco sets off a heart-thumping chain of events and when Houdini escapes, it's just the icing on the cake. Much hilarity ensues with a healthy dose of romance but is this a fairy tale with a happy ending?
Men or Paws by Rich Amooi is a good, clean, fun story that will make you laugh out loud more than once. The characters have great chemistry and are well developed. You'll love the female lead and will eventually come to love the male lead; everyone will love the dog. It's an engaging story with plenty of humor and you'll be egging the characters on to get together. The dialog is simple, the story is easy to follow, and there's plenty going on. It's not a long story and you'll probably read it in or two sittings but it’s a nice way to while away a few hours. The characters are real people in a story that could so easily happen. It's not complicated, there's no twisting, turning plot to try to keep up with - it's just good, clean fun. If you like chick-lit, you'll like this one.
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