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Recommend this book:
Redemption
Victoria Price
2024 Finalist
146 Pages
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Romance - Contemporary
Reviewed by Risah Salazar for Readers' Favorite
In Victoria Price's Redemption, in a quaint family home in Tennessee, Darren Hartford and Sara Colbert first met during harsh weather conditions. Things happened quickly, and before they knew it, they were in each other's arms, sharing a passionate kiss. However, this budding romance was abruptly interrupted when Darren abandoned her with just a note, leaving Sara alone, still waiting for her family. Four years later, fate brought them back together. Darren wanted to reconnect, but Sara just wanted to forget. Despite Sara's stubbornness, Darren found a way back to her heart. As their renewed romance sailed on, storms threatened to wreck their love. With prejudice and hidden secrets pulling them back, could they overcome love's battles and finally be together?
In Victoria Price's Redemption, vivid imagery engages all five senses, making the reader feel like a character in the book, experiencing everything as the story unfolds. All the characters, even the minor ones, are carefully written with clear motivations—no one is left out, and everyone plays a significant role in the narrative. The tension between Sara and Darren is always palpable, creating a love story that will touch many hearts. This is the kind of book that one can finish in a single sitting, not just because it's possible but because the desire to do so is compelling. The rush is addictive. There are a few plot twists, but the last one is the cherry on top. This book strikes a good balance between heart-tugging drama, romance, and unyielding desire. With its fast pace and excellent storytelling, hopeless romantics will enjoy every page of Redemption.
In Victoria Price's Redemption, in a quaint family home in Tennessee, Darren Hartford and Sara Colbert first met during harsh weather conditions. Things happened quickly, and before they knew it, they were in each other's arms, sharing a passionate kiss. However, this budding romance was abruptly interrupted when Darren abandoned her with just a note, leaving Sara alone, still waiting for her family. Four years later, fate brought them back together. Darren wanted to reconnect, but Sara just wanted to forget. Despite Sara's stubbornness, Darren found a way back to her heart. As their renewed romance sailed on, storms threatened to wreck their love. With prejudice and hidden secrets pulling them back, could they overcome love's battles and finally be together?
In Victoria Price's Redemption, vivid imagery engages all five senses, making the reader feel like a character in the book, experiencing everything as the story unfolds. All the characters, even the minor ones, are carefully written with clear motivations—no one is left out, and everyone plays a significant role in the narrative. The tension between Sara and Darren is always palpable, creating a love story that will touch many hearts. This is the kind of book that one can finish in a single sitting, not just because it's possible but because the desire to do so is compelling. The rush is addictive. There are a few plot twists, but the last one is the cherry on top. This book strikes a good balance between heart-tugging drama, romance, and unyielding desire. With its fast pace and excellent storytelling, hopeless romantics will enjoy every page of Redemption.
Recommend this book:
Eight Years Gone
Cate Beauman
2024 Bronze Medal
Kindle Edition
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Romance - Contemporary
Reviewed by Stephanie Chapman for Readers' Favorite
Cate Beauman’s Eight Years Gone features the lives of Grace and Jagger. The evening Jagger found Grace’s brother with a gunshot wound altered the trajectory of everyone’s lives. Dr. Steve Evans blamed Jagger for Logan’s death. He told Jagger to stay away from Grace, or he would prevent her from pursuing her career. Jagger disappears, leaving Grace devastated. Eight years later, Grace is working for her aunt at Simplicity Florist and Gifts while freelancing for Travel Magazine. After Jagger’s sudden appearance at Simplicity, Grace refuses to listen to him because of him abandoning her. However, Dr. Evans’ actions have proven to complicate their lives as Jagger and Grace rekindle their love. While going through her mother's journals, Grace discovers something shocking about her parents' relationship.
Cate Beauman gave Grace and Jagger characteristics that were relatable. Their actions on the night of Logan’s death were proof of how impulsive young adults act in response to trauma. Jagger buried his pain by facing danger overseas, while Grace blamed her father and fell into a deep depression. I felt sympathy for Steve because he lost both his children in one night. The alternating viewpoints between Grace and Jagger showed their feelings and thoughts. It was easy to see every moment from each person’s perspective. The transitions were smooth, and I had no issue understanding their motivations. I was engaged by the story’s realistic depiction of the characters’ thoughts and mistakes. The twists in the unpredictable plot added complexity to Jagger and Grace’s relationship. Eight Years Gone will appeal to readers who enjoy second-chance romances built on a life-altering event.
Cate Beauman’s Eight Years Gone features the lives of Grace and Jagger. The evening Jagger found Grace’s brother with a gunshot wound altered the trajectory of everyone’s lives. Dr. Steve Evans blamed Jagger for Logan’s death. He told Jagger to stay away from Grace, or he would prevent her from pursuing her career. Jagger disappears, leaving Grace devastated. Eight years later, Grace is working for her aunt at Simplicity Florist and Gifts while freelancing for Travel Magazine. After Jagger’s sudden appearance at Simplicity, Grace refuses to listen to him because of him abandoning her. However, Dr. Evans’ actions have proven to complicate their lives as Jagger and Grace rekindle their love. While going through her mother's journals, Grace discovers something shocking about her parents' relationship.
Cate Beauman gave Grace and Jagger characteristics that were relatable. Their actions on the night of Logan’s death were proof of how impulsive young adults act in response to trauma. Jagger buried his pain by facing danger overseas, while Grace blamed her father and fell into a deep depression. I felt sympathy for Steve because he lost both his children in one night. The alternating viewpoints between Grace and Jagger showed their feelings and thoughts. It was easy to see every moment from each person’s perspective. The transitions were smooth, and I had no issue understanding their motivations. I was engaged by the story’s realistic depiction of the characters’ thoughts and mistakes. The twists in the unpredictable plot added complexity to Jagger and Grace’s relationship. Eight Years Gone will appeal to readers who enjoy second-chance romances built on a life-altering event.
Recommend this book:
The False Flat
Melissa Collings
2024 Silver Medal
379 Pages
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Romance - Contemporary
Reviewed by Nino Lobiladze for Readers' Favorite
Penelope Auberge, or Pen, is a brilliant financial planner at Twin Cities Financial based in Minnesota. Her boyfriend, Chad, supports her career. But her life takes an unexpected turn. Houston McGregor, Pen's boss, orders her to drop her clients in favor of her male co-worker again. Then it turns out that Chad is married. Devastated, Pen buys a house in Nashville, Tennessee, and moves there to start a new business. Pen gets an invitation to dinner from a friendly young woman named Deanna, whom she met in a grocery store. Socially awkward, Pen dreads dinner with strangers, but she overcomes her anxiety and meets Deanna's handsome brother, Grant. A keen cyclist, Pen surprises herself again and starts riding with Grant's group. While inspiring others with her vision, Pen is vulnerable. Will she be brave enough to banish her past and embrace hope for a better future with Grant? The False Flat by Melissa Collings is for fans of contemporary romance, women's fiction, and family drama.
Melissa Collings's The False Flat is a haunting, character-driven novel. The author impresses with a meticulous study of the main characters. Pen is a strong woman, but her past traumas and losses take their toll. Her character is relatable because of her inner pain and vulnerability. At the same time, Pen is relentless and has an immense sense of purpose. Grant's character is kind and noble with a unique sense of humor that lightens up the emotional intensity of the narrative. For me, these two characters are the most prominent. There is also the wonderful Deanna, a friend everyone dreams of having. Pen and Grant's love story is touching, profound, and fascinating. The author warns us against keeping family secrets, for they may poison our relationships with loved ones. The author examines a woman's role in today's society and questions family patterns that don't allow women to follow their calling.
Penelope Auberge, or Pen, is a brilliant financial planner at Twin Cities Financial based in Minnesota. Her boyfriend, Chad, supports her career. But her life takes an unexpected turn. Houston McGregor, Pen's boss, orders her to drop her clients in favor of her male co-worker again. Then it turns out that Chad is married. Devastated, Pen buys a house in Nashville, Tennessee, and moves there to start a new business. Pen gets an invitation to dinner from a friendly young woman named Deanna, whom she met in a grocery store. Socially awkward, Pen dreads dinner with strangers, but she overcomes her anxiety and meets Deanna's handsome brother, Grant. A keen cyclist, Pen surprises herself again and starts riding with Grant's group. While inspiring others with her vision, Pen is vulnerable. Will she be brave enough to banish her past and embrace hope for a better future with Grant? The False Flat by Melissa Collings is for fans of contemporary romance, women's fiction, and family drama.
Melissa Collings's The False Flat is a haunting, character-driven novel. The author impresses with a meticulous study of the main characters. Pen is a strong woman, but her past traumas and losses take their toll. Her character is relatable because of her inner pain and vulnerability. At the same time, Pen is relentless and has an immense sense of purpose. Grant's character is kind and noble with a unique sense of humor that lightens up the emotional intensity of the narrative. For me, these two characters are the most prominent. There is also the wonderful Deanna, a friend everyone dreams of having. Pen and Grant's love story is touching, profound, and fascinating. The author warns us against keeping family secrets, for they may poison our relationships with loved ones. The author examines a woman's role in today's society and questions family patterns that don't allow women to follow their calling.
Recommend this book:
Royal Caleva: Gabriel
Duke of Bencalor
Nancy Herkness
2024 Gold Medal
548 Pages
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Romance - Contemporary
Reviewed by K.C. Finn for Readers' Favorite
Royal Caleva: Gabriel by Nancy Herkness is a contemporary romance that offers readers a story of classic honor, vibrant passion, and hints of danger. The story centers on Gabriel, Duke of Bencalor, who sacrifices his career as a Flamenco guitarist by allowing himself to be kidnapped to save his cousin, the Prince of Caleva. Quinn Pierson, an American computer hacker, is hired to track down Gabriel’s abductors. As she works with Gabriel, their growing attraction becomes undeniable, despite her reservations about their different worlds and her troubled past. Amidst escalating threats from a criminal mastermind and a hidden foe, their love faces both external and internal battles.
Author Nancy Herkness combines the chilling feel of suspense and the excitement and nerves of a new romance, creating a captivating narrative that keeps readers engaged with plenty of emotional depth and tension from cover to cover. The author’s nuanced portrayal of the main characters is packed with intricate narrative details and strong characterization that shows us exactly why they operate in the way that they do. Gabriel and Quinn couldn’t be more different in their upbringing and attitudes, but the pair bring out new, interesting qualities in one another that we see being nurtured through brilliant dialogue exchanges and emotional scenes where they open up about their demons. Herkness’s vivid descriptions and intricate plotting bring the prestige of the royal setting and the grittier elements of high-stakes drama to life, immersing readers in the story’s world and marrying these two concepts together seamlessly. Overall, I would highly recommend Royal Caleva: Gabriel to fans of complex, multi-dimensional tales and contemporary romance readers everywhere.
Royal Caleva: Gabriel by Nancy Herkness is a contemporary romance that offers readers a story of classic honor, vibrant passion, and hints of danger. The story centers on Gabriel, Duke of Bencalor, who sacrifices his career as a Flamenco guitarist by allowing himself to be kidnapped to save his cousin, the Prince of Caleva. Quinn Pierson, an American computer hacker, is hired to track down Gabriel’s abductors. As she works with Gabriel, their growing attraction becomes undeniable, despite her reservations about their different worlds and her troubled past. Amidst escalating threats from a criminal mastermind and a hidden foe, their love faces both external and internal battles.
Author Nancy Herkness combines the chilling feel of suspense and the excitement and nerves of a new romance, creating a captivating narrative that keeps readers engaged with plenty of emotional depth and tension from cover to cover. The author’s nuanced portrayal of the main characters is packed with intricate narrative details and strong characterization that shows us exactly why they operate in the way that they do. Gabriel and Quinn couldn’t be more different in their upbringing and attitudes, but the pair bring out new, interesting qualities in one another that we see being nurtured through brilliant dialogue exchanges and emotional scenes where they open up about their demons. Herkness’s vivid descriptions and intricate plotting bring the prestige of the royal setting and the grittier elements of high-stakes drama to life, immersing readers in the story’s world and marrying these two concepts together seamlessly. Overall, I would highly recommend Royal Caleva: Gabriel to fans of complex, multi-dimensional tales and contemporary romance readers everywhere.
Recommend this book:
Wesley
Loving a Young Book 1
Stacy Eaton
2023 Finalist
178 Pages
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Romance - Contemporary
Reviewed by Miche Arendse for Readers' Favorite
Wesley by Stacy Eaton follows the story of Charlotte Bennett, a single mother who has experienced one too many traumatic events in her life, leaving her with a strong dislike and distrust of strangers. Her daughter Marisol is her whole world, so when she sees a strange man talking to her daughter at the park, she loses it. Tackling the man, she doesn’t give him any time to explain that he is a doctor simply trying to do a check-up after seeing her daughter fall. When things get serious, she realizes she might have made a grave mistake, which might also have led her to the best man she’d ever met.
Wesley by Stacy Eaton is the exact definition of an emotional rollercoaster; it is an intense story with emotional highs and lows all wrapped up in a beautifully concise book. I didn’t think I would enjoy Wesley as much as I did, but every moment hooked me. I was rooting for Charlotte and Wes’ relationship from the start. However, I was pretty angry with Wes when he didn’t allow Charlotte time to explain her side of the story regarding Marisol’s father. The writing style, tone, and pacing are just perfect, and Eaton did an excellent job of picking just the right time to throw a spanner in the works of the main characters' relationship. It made for such an intense tale which thankfully had a happy ending. I highly recommend giving this a read.
Wesley by Stacy Eaton follows the story of Charlotte Bennett, a single mother who has experienced one too many traumatic events in her life, leaving her with a strong dislike and distrust of strangers. Her daughter Marisol is her whole world, so when she sees a strange man talking to her daughter at the park, she loses it. Tackling the man, she doesn’t give him any time to explain that he is a doctor simply trying to do a check-up after seeing her daughter fall. When things get serious, she realizes she might have made a grave mistake, which might also have led her to the best man she’d ever met.
Wesley by Stacy Eaton is the exact definition of an emotional rollercoaster; it is an intense story with emotional highs and lows all wrapped up in a beautifully concise book. I didn’t think I would enjoy Wesley as much as I did, but every moment hooked me. I was rooting for Charlotte and Wes’ relationship from the start. However, I was pretty angry with Wes when he didn’t allow Charlotte time to explain her side of the story regarding Marisol’s father. The writing style, tone, and pacing are just perfect, and Eaton did an excellent job of picking just the right time to throw a spanner in the works of the main characters' relationship. It made for such an intense tale which thankfully had a happy ending. I highly recommend giving this a read.
Recommend this book:
Savage Abandon
A Dark Cowboy Mafia Romance Book One
Sky Coppola
2023 Honorable Mention
294 Pages
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Romance - Contemporary
Reviewed by Jamie Michele for Readers' Favorite
In the novel Savage Abandon by Sky Coppola, Carter Caldwell finds himself facing the consequences of a life-altering decision he made years ago. He left behind his education and the woman he loved in pursuit of revenge, leading to a series of disastrous outcomes. Now, helping his father manage their Wyoming cattle empire offers him an escape, but leaves little room for romance. When complications arise with their new calves, Carter realizes he desperately needs assistance. Enter Dr. Destiny Hart, a talented veterinarian who survived her own traumatic past. As she is hired to aid the rancher, Destiny comes face-to-face with Carter, the man who vanished without a trace a decade ago. Amidst their undeniable attraction, chaos ensues when Carter's brother becomes entangled with the Mafia. With his family, livelihood, and love interest in peril, Carter must go to extreme lengths to protect them all, even if it means taking matters into his own hands.
Did someone order a big fat vat of sizzle? Because...come and get it from Savage Abandon by Sky Coppola. Excuse me while I sit in front of this fan and tell you all about it. Coppola blends a cowboy romance with some serious Mafia plotting that, together, fill the storyline with heaps of suspense. Suspense is also code for excellent pacing, and the plot does move quickly. Even with the attention span of a ferret, I was engaged and constantly questioning what will happen next. The Carter and Destiny chemistry practically drips from the pages and even with the tug-of-war of secrets that makes you want to rope the cowboy in, they do add that lush layer of complexity to their relationship. The book does end on a cliffhanger that is basically the Everest of dropoffs, BUT the next book in the Dark Cowboy Mafia Romance series, Savage Promise, is already out. And that means I am too.... very highly recommended.
In the novel Savage Abandon by Sky Coppola, Carter Caldwell finds himself facing the consequences of a life-altering decision he made years ago. He left behind his education and the woman he loved in pursuit of revenge, leading to a series of disastrous outcomes. Now, helping his father manage their Wyoming cattle empire offers him an escape, but leaves little room for romance. When complications arise with their new calves, Carter realizes he desperately needs assistance. Enter Dr. Destiny Hart, a talented veterinarian who survived her own traumatic past. As she is hired to aid the rancher, Destiny comes face-to-face with Carter, the man who vanished without a trace a decade ago. Amidst their undeniable attraction, chaos ensues when Carter's brother becomes entangled with the Mafia. With his family, livelihood, and love interest in peril, Carter must go to extreme lengths to protect them all, even if it means taking matters into his own hands.
Did someone order a big fat vat of sizzle? Because...come and get it from Savage Abandon by Sky Coppola. Excuse me while I sit in front of this fan and tell you all about it. Coppola blends a cowboy romance with some serious Mafia plotting that, together, fill the storyline with heaps of suspense. Suspense is also code for excellent pacing, and the plot does move quickly. Even with the attention span of a ferret, I was engaged and constantly questioning what will happen next. The Carter and Destiny chemistry practically drips from the pages and even with the tug-of-war of secrets that makes you want to rope the cowboy in, they do add that lush layer of complexity to their relationship. The book does end on a cliffhanger that is basically the Everest of dropoffs, BUT the next book in the Dark Cowboy Mafia Romance series, Savage Promise, is already out. And that means I am too.... very highly recommended.
Recommend this book:
The Outcast
The Techboys Series
Eve M. Riley
2023 Honorable Mention
306 Pages
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Romance - Contemporary
Reviewed by Cloie Belle Daffon for Readers' Favorite
The Outcast is book two of the Techboys Series. This is a sexy, modern love story by Eve M. Riley. Dr. Kate Thurman and Fabian Adramovich are two very different people with completely different lives. They happen to meet one fateful day at the hospital. One look and there was a spark that made it hard to look away from each other. Kate was a hardworking medical intern who was too hard on herself, and Fabian was a tattooed, chaotic bad boy. They should not fit together but against all odds they did. The love between them was deep and tempestuous. Being together was difficult and their lives and personalities clashed constantly. Dark forces seemed ready to tear them apart and trouble was brewing. Will Kate and Fabian be able to face these difficulties together or will they break apart under the pressure?
Establishing a romance between two people leading very different lives was a narrative challenge that the author tackled with exceptional skill. The chemistry between Kate and Fabian was sizzling hot. Their interactions were often intense but with complicated circumstances and people opposing their relationship, their love for each other was always under threat. It broke my heart to see their romance riddled with misunderstandings and hurt. Riley articulates their love and struggles in a way that pulled at my heartstrings and made me wish all their cares would be resolved quickly. The exciting plotline paints vivid scenarios which made the story easy to follow and hard to put down. The swapping of first-person narratives between Kate and Fabian allowed me to understand their story from two viewpoints. It was so frustrating to see the feelings they were holding back, even when they were together, and sometimes I just wanted to reach into the book and shake them to remind them how important they are to each other. The fact that The Outcast can bring about such strong feelings in me demonstrates how skillfully Riley has portrayed Kate and Fabian’s story. This incredible book had me spellbound from the start. I can’t wait for more from Eve M. Riley.
The Outcast is book two of the Techboys Series. This is a sexy, modern love story by Eve M. Riley. Dr. Kate Thurman and Fabian Adramovich are two very different people with completely different lives. They happen to meet one fateful day at the hospital. One look and there was a spark that made it hard to look away from each other. Kate was a hardworking medical intern who was too hard on herself, and Fabian was a tattooed, chaotic bad boy. They should not fit together but against all odds they did. The love between them was deep and tempestuous. Being together was difficult and their lives and personalities clashed constantly. Dark forces seemed ready to tear them apart and trouble was brewing. Will Kate and Fabian be able to face these difficulties together or will they break apart under the pressure?
Establishing a romance between two people leading very different lives was a narrative challenge that the author tackled with exceptional skill. The chemistry between Kate and Fabian was sizzling hot. Their interactions were often intense but with complicated circumstances and people opposing their relationship, their love for each other was always under threat. It broke my heart to see their romance riddled with misunderstandings and hurt. Riley articulates their love and struggles in a way that pulled at my heartstrings and made me wish all their cares would be resolved quickly. The exciting plotline paints vivid scenarios which made the story easy to follow and hard to put down. The swapping of first-person narratives between Kate and Fabian allowed me to understand their story from two viewpoints. It was so frustrating to see the feelings they were holding back, even when they were together, and sometimes I just wanted to reach into the book and shake them to remind them how important they are to each other. The fact that The Outcast can bring about such strong feelings in me demonstrates how skillfully Riley has portrayed Kate and Fabian’s story. This incredible book had me spellbound from the start. I can’t wait for more from Eve M. Riley.
Recommend this book:
Come As You Are
A Gen X Romance
Jess K Hardy
2023 Bronze Medal
324 Pages
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Romance - Contemporary
Reviewed by Chinazo Anozie for Readers' Favorite
Ashley Cooke feels in over her head and barely keeping it together. With her infuriating mother, a ski hill that’s about to go under, and a sleazy ex-husband who keeps trying to buy her out, it’s taking all she can to hold on to her sanity. When her mother suddenly decides to hire a group of former cons and addicts to render much-needed help for the winter season at Bluebird Basin Mountain, Ashley will have to decide if she’s willing to take a risk with her beloved mountain and her heart or end up losing it all. Follow Ashley in Come As You Are by Jess K Hardy as she rediscovers self-confidence and finds love and friendships most unexpectedly.
Words aren’t enough to describe my appreciation for this book, but I’ll do my best. First, I adore the illustrated cover; it’s unique, brilliantly done, and perfectly depicts Ashley and Madigan. It was very refreshing reading about older main characters. Hardy perfectly brought all the characters’ emotions to life; for example, Madigan’s fear when he was learning to ski, especially riding the chairlift, was so palpable I could feel it like it was my own. Hardy’s writing was so beautifully done that I enjoyed the warmth emanating from Madigan, the camaraderie with his crew, and the picturesque, idyllic feel of Bluebird Basin. I honestly didn’t want this book to end. Come As You Are by Jess K Hardy is an amazing romance novel that will give you a warm, fuzzy feeling while reading and long after you’re done.
Ashley Cooke feels in over her head and barely keeping it together. With her infuriating mother, a ski hill that’s about to go under, and a sleazy ex-husband who keeps trying to buy her out, it’s taking all she can to hold on to her sanity. When her mother suddenly decides to hire a group of former cons and addicts to render much-needed help for the winter season at Bluebird Basin Mountain, Ashley will have to decide if she’s willing to take a risk with her beloved mountain and her heart or end up losing it all. Follow Ashley in Come As You Are by Jess K Hardy as she rediscovers self-confidence and finds love and friendships most unexpectedly.
Words aren’t enough to describe my appreciation for this book, but I’ll do my best. First, I adore the illustrated cover; it’s unique, brilliantly done, and perfectly depicts Ashley and Madigan. It was very refreshing reading about older main characters. Hardy perfectly brought all the characters’ emotions to life; for example, Madigan’s fear when he was learning to ski, especially riding the chairlift, was so palpable I could feel it like it was my own. Hardy’s writing was so beautifully done that I enjoyed the warmth emanating from Madigan, the camaraderie with his crew, and the picturesque, idyllic feel of Bluebird Basin. I honestly didn’t want this book to end. Come As You Are by Jess K Hardy is an amazing romance novel that will give you a warm, fuzzy feeling while reading and long after you’re done.
Recommend this book:
Love is Worth Fighting For
The Meraki Series Book 3
Effie Kammenou
2023 Silver Medal
365 Pages
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Romance - Contemporary
Reviewed by Rabia Tanveer for Readers' Favorite
Love is Worth Fighting For is the third novel in The Meraki Series by Effie Kammenou. All Krystina wanted was to become famous on social media and travel to the most beautiful locations. She wanted to achieve those big dreams and do all that away from Loukas. He used to be a great friend, but a mistake in the past made them drift apart. However, that didn’t stop Loukas from trying to win her heart. He got the perfect opportunity to do that when Krystina and her sister traveled to Athens to find out what happened to their grandfather. It all started with a mystery, and before they knew it, Loukas and Krystina slowly realized they weren’t the frenemies they thought they were. As they fell for each other, they discovered there was more to life than just chasing dreams.
Set in the time of the COVID era, author Effie Kammenou worked her magic and made her characters shine. The plot was great, and the execution of it was perfect. I loved Loukas. He was charming, determined, and ready to do whatever it took to win Krystina’s heart. Loukas never overwhelmed her, but he was always there for her and waiting for her to reach out at her own pace. I didn’t like Krystina in the beginning, but she really grew on me. She was headstrong and had the drive to chase after ideas and dreams. Their character development was off-the-charts good. You may feel a little stunned by the chapter count, but it all makes sense. The descriptions in Love is Worth Fighting For were amazing! I felt like I was traveling along with Krystina and Loukas. The descriptions of Greece were magical, and I loved it! Now, I want to read the previous novels in the series and revisit this one. I highly recommend this novel!
Love is Worth Fighting For is the third novel in The Meraki Series by Effie Kammenou. All Krystina wanted was to become famous on social media and travel to the most beautiful locations. She wanted to achieve those big dreams and do all that away from Loukas. He used to be a great friend, but a mistake in the past made them drift apart. However, that didn’t stop Loukas from trying to win her heart. He got the perfect opportunity to do that when Krystina and her sister traveled to Athens to find out what happened to their grandfather. It all started with a mystery, and before they knew it, Loukas and Krystina slowly realized they weren’t the frenemies they thought they were. As they fell for each other, they discovered there was more to life than just chasing dreams.
Set in the time of the COVID era, author Effie Kammenou worked her magic and made her characters shine. The plot was great, and the execution of it was perfect. I loved Loukas. He was charming, determined, and ready to do whatever it took to win Krystina’s heart. Loukas never overwhelmed her, but he was always there for her and waiting for her to reach out at her own pace. I didn’t like Krystina in the beginning, but she really grew on me. She was headstrong and had the drive to chase after ideas and dreams. Their character development was off-the-charts good. You may feel a little stunned by the chapter count, but it all makes sense. The descriptions in Love is Worth Fighting For were amazing! I felt like I was traveling along with Krystina and Loukas. The descriptions of Greece were magical, and I loved it! Now, I want to read the previous novels in the series and revisit this one. I highly recommend this novel!
Recommend this book:
Fallen Raven
Raven Duet Book 1
Diana A. Hicks
2023 Gold Medal
468 Pages
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Romance - Contemporary
Reviewed by Stephanie Chapman for Readers' Favorite
In the first book of the Raven Duet by Diana A. Hicks, Fallen Raven features Aurora’s indoctrination into the five families located in New York City. Somehow her father saved Head Mafia Leader Michael Alfera and was elevated to being his right-hand man. She is made to sign a non-disclosure agreement based on Signoria Vittoria’s threat of death if she fails to follow the rules. Penny de Luca is assigned to help Aurora become accustomed to their rules. Penny tells her to avoid the “Royals," who are the direct heirs to the families. However, it seems Aurora cannot resist the allure of Enzo Alfera. Enzo has the same feelings for the “outsider,” and does his best to avoid interacting with her. Unable to resist his warring thoughts, he succumbs to his inner desire and intends to make Aurora his.
Diana A. Hicks painted a slow-burn romance balanced on the dark edge of danger. The narrative is told between Aurora and Enzo. The transition scenes that unfold are easy to follow. I felt that Aurora was naive to ignore how her father was constantly parading affluent members of the Mafia around her. He even told her that he wanted her to marry someone powerful to secure their family's future. Enzo’s avoidance of Aurora confused me as much as it did her. One moment he appears welcoming and overly friendly toward her, then he acts like he doesn’t know she exists. His best friend, Rex, seems to be the only level-headed member. The descriptions of the school, the hierarchy of each family, and the lavish homes are vivid. The story is unpredictable and it is difficult to trust who is a good or bad guy. The cliffhanger ending offers several different possible outcomes. Fallen Raven will capture the minds of readers who enjoy Mafia political romances with plenty of action to entertain them.
In the first book of the Raven Duet by Diana A. Hicks, Fallen Raven features Aurora’s indoctrination into the five families located in New York City. Somehow her father saved Head Mafia Leader Michael Alfera and was elevated to being his right-hand man. She is made to sign a non-disclosure agreement based on Signoria Vittoria’s threat of death if she fails to follow the rules. Penny de Luca is assigned to help Aurora become accustomed to their rules. Penny tells her to avoid the “Royals," who are the direct heirs to the families. However, it seems Aurora cannot resist the allure of Enzo Alfera. Enzo has the same feelings for the “outsider,” and does his best to avoid interacting with her. Unable to resist his warring thoughts, he succumbs to his inner desire and intends to make Aurora his.
Diana A. Hicks painted a slow-burn romance balanced on the dark edge of danger. The narrative is told between Aurora and Enzo. The transition scenes that unfold are easy to follow. I felt that Aurora was naive to ignore how her father was constantly parading affluent members of the Mafia around her. He even told her that he wanted her to marry someone powerful to secure their family's future. Enzo’s avoidance of Aurora confused me as much as it did her. One moment he appears welcoming and overly friendly toward her, then he acts like he doesn’t know she exists. His best friend, Rex, seems to be the only level-headed member. The descriptions of the school, the hierarchy of each family, and the lavish homes are vivid. The story is unpredictable and it is difficult to trust who is a good or bad guy. The cliffhanger ending offers several different possible outcomes. Fallen Raven will capture the minds of readers who enjoy Mafia political romances with plenty of action to entertain them.
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