Books Book Review: Made For You By Renee Harless 6:28 PM Did someone say arranged marriage and undeniable sparks? If you need a light, feel-good, romantic, spicy read, head down to Sunny Brook Farms. I’m honored to join the ARC team for the third book in this series. Without further ado, here’s my book review for Made for You by Renee Harless.Book SummaryBe a stranger’s wife for six months to secure his inheritance. That's the whirlwind proposal Aurora received from a hot guy she met in the hotel where she's attending a teacher's conference.Driven by hidden motives and revenge, she agrees. But as lines blur and affection blooms, Aurora craves for more. Facing the end of their contract, she realizes the one thing she wants is the one thing he refuses to give. At least, that’s what she thought.TropesArranged marriageAge gapBillionaire RomanceOpposites attract (Grumpy who only smiles for his Sunshine)Found familyAll the “My wife”No unnecessary 3rd act breakup The CharactersTalon BeckettHeir to the Wilder Hotels (the only person who gives a damn about their family business)Had a rough childhoodAurora “Rory” EasterlySmall-town teacherRomance reader“Peaches” of Talon“She reminded me of the early dawn. Bright and alluring. Her name suited her perfectly.” - Talon BeckettRating⭐⭐⭐⭐🌠🌶🌶🌶🌶Book Review: Made for You by Renee HarlessMade For You is a delightful read filled with “my wife,” spice, and a heroine who chased back her passion. Out of the 3 books in the Sunny Brook series, this is my fave.What I like:It may be a marriage of convenience, but there was palpable attraction from the start. In fiction, I always find it adorable when two people enter a transactional marriage but end up falling head over heels for each other. Especially if one of them swore to never.Aurora. She’s basically Belle 2.0 for me: bookworm, sunshine personified, soft-spoken but a fierce defender of the voiceless. Beautiful with a kind and generous heart.Supportive fake husband. Talon gave her the support she needed - though she didn’t ask for it. She’s not a damsel in distress. But he helped her patch up the tapestry her ex shredded, so to speak. Sunny Brook sounds like a fictional wonderland: picturesque, heartwarming, and the perfect backdrop for a love story that starts practical and blooms into something seriously steamy.Spice. Talon may be a dirty talker. But the wholesome, sweetheart, small-town, sunshiny girl could give him a run for his money. Swoon. The “It’s beautiful, isn’t it?” “Yeah, it is,” but he’s looking at her, not at the view (swoon!)GiphyBeyond the butterflies Aurora found her voice and stood up to her family. YAS QUEEN! Draco. Aurora’s cat.Easy read and fast-paced.Talon’s adorable grandma The ever-reliable DeanThe supportive side characters (except for one, but whose story I can’t wait to read about)Minor quibblesWould’ve loved to see the principal get his comeuppance, too. Maybe I’m a bit vindictive that way. But what they did to Aurora was unfair.Now, this is a personal preference. This didn’t in any way affect the plot.But...I just expected something more during the confrontation with Rory’s family. I’ve just been reading books with alpha males; my standard is too high. 😅 Plus, my husband would’ve done more if it happened to me. (Really trying not to spoil anything here, so forgive the vagueness).I’m sure most readers don’t mind this minor ‘hiccup.’ Again, it’s just me.TenorI also can't point my finger at it, but I feel like the pacing could be better? And there are parts where I wish could've been elaborated more. For example the characters' reactions to certain things or getting a glimpse at the actual conversation or text messages instead of it just being narrated.Will I recommend it?Yes. Anyone looking for a feel-good read with a side lot of steam would thank Renee Harless for this book. Favorite Quotes“Whatever my wife wants, my wife gets.”“It wasn’t a future I ever envisioned for myself, but every day that passed with Aurora as my wife, it became more and more clear. I was so f* in love with her.”“Forget the hotels and the money. Asking you to be my wife was the best damn decision I ever made.”What are you reading next?Please add Made For You By Renee Harless to your reading list. The release date is February 13th on Amazon, and it will be available in Kindle Unlimited and Paperback.This post contains affiliate links, so we’d get a commission if you purchase through the links at no additional cost. Thank you!Question for YouDo you prefer living in a big city or in a small town?Hey, you wanna be book buddies? I share short book reviews, recommendations, funny memes, and relatable reels on my Instagram account @booksandblogs_lux. Follow me there! I also post my reviews on Goodreads.
Books 14 Surprising Benefits of Reading Romance Novels 4:56 PM I used to scoff at romance novels. Predictable plots, unrealistic characters, and cheesy dialogue? No thanks. At least, that's what I assumed they were all about. But then I decided to explore and not judge the book by its half-naked godlike man on the cover. Fast forward to today, I am a proud romance reader (I read 180 books last year). While they may not be your cup of tea, romance books offer unexpected benefits beyond the happily-ever-afters. I'll help you ditch the stigma of books about gooey-eyed couples with these 14 surprising benefits of reading romance novels I discovered in my bookish era.1. Escape and RelaxationReality could be overrated. To read romance is to escape from daily routines and a chance to unwind and de-stress. It provides a safe haven to experience various emotions alongside the characters, forgetting your worries and concerns. Live vicariously through reading.Tumblr2. Emotional Intelligence and EmpathyRomance novels have diverse characters. Reading romance can help you understand people's emotions better. It's like trying on different shoes and walking around in them. This can make you more empathetic and emotionally intelligent, improving your relationships at work and in your personal life.Book Banter3. Confidence and InspirationI love romance books that feature strong, relatable characters. I'm especially partial to stories with feisty female leads overcoming their fears and trauma and pursuing their dreams. Fictional as they may be, they can inspire you to embrace your vulnerabilities, set goals, and chase your own happily ever after, whether in love, career, or personal fulfillment.Wiffle Gif4. Boosts Creativity and ImaginationI seldom read romantasy because I struggle with world-building. But romance books also allow you to dive into imaginative worlds with vibrant descriptions. Romance novels can push the boundaries of storytelling, helping you create a world of your own version in your head.GIFdb5. Better Communication and RelationshipsOne of my bookish pet peeves is the misunderstanding trope. It made me value the importance of communication in relationships more. Reading romance can equip you with tools to express yourself effectively, nurture stronger connections, and navigate the complexities of relationships.Pinterest6. Appreciation for Diverse Cultures and IdentitiesFictional characters in romance books provide cultural and social contexts. They help expand your understanding and appreciation for diverse perspectives and experiences. I like Ana Huang's books for this reason. She has characters from different cultures and backgrounds.Get Underlined7. Stress Reduction and Improved MoodThis may depend on the story, but I choose Happily Ever After or HEA-guaranteed books. They have uplifting stories with favorable resolutions. The witty banter, the fun family dynamics, the amusingly meddling residents in the small town, and the hilarious friends. Romance novels can provide a much-needed emotional boost.The Scarlet Reader8. Vocabulary Expansion and Language SkillsRomance novels often employ rich descriptions and engaging dialogue, exposing you to diverse vocabulary and writing styles. Some characters even speak a different language. Reading these stories can help you improve your vocabulary and communication skills.Pinterest9. Memory Boost and Cognitive StimulationFollowing intricate plotlines, remembering character details, and deciphering emotional complexities in romance novels provide a workout for your cognitive muscles. This mental stimulation can contribute to improving your memory and overall cognitive function.LinkedIn10. Problem-solving and Decision-making SkillsWitnessing characters encounter and tackle various challenges throughout their romantic journeys can indirectly enhance your own problem-solving skills. Observing their approaches to difficult situations and the consequences of their choices can lead to more thoughtful and informed decision-making in your own life. You also learn from their mistakes.The Writing Gym11. Sleep ImprovementReading before bed, especially a calming romance novel, can promote relaxation and prepare your mind for sleep. Just avoid reading suspense thrillers and resist the urge to succumb to cliffhangers at the end of a chapter to prevent losing sleep.GifDB12. Personal Growth and ReflectionRomance novels often explore self-discovery, personal growth, and overcoming obstacles. Engaging with these themes can inspire you to reflect on your life, values, and aspirations, potentially leading to personal growth and development.Giphy13. Appreciation for Different Genres Romance has various subgenres, each with distinct storytelling techniques and flavors. Exploring these variations can broaden your literary horizons and help you appreciate different writing styles.PopSugar14. Community and ConnectionOne of the many things I gained from reading romance is the bookstagram community. I may not join a book club because I like to read at my own pace, but I've met online acquaintances who share the same passion. It's tough when you're really into a book but have nobody to share your excitement with. The bookish community has been an excellent place for that.Hey, you wanna be book buddies? I share short book reviews, recommendations, funny memes, and relatable reels on my Instagram account @booksandblogs_lux. Follow me there! I also post my reviews on Goodreads.GetYarnWhat are some romance novels to read?I have a long list of my recommended romance novels. There are small-town romances, billionaires, cowboys, morally grey characters, romantic suspense, historical fiction, enemies to lovers, single-parent romance, and more. Surprising Benefits of Reading Romance Novels TakeawayRomance fiction has become a cherished part of my life. If you're still hesitant to pick up a romance book, I invite you to relinquish the stigma and dive without expectations. That's what I did. I never regretted this genre because the benefits of reading romance novels are just incredible.Question for YouWhat's your favorite romance book or movie? What do you like about it?
Books How To Write Engaging Book Reviews: 6 Steps + Tips 5:23 PM Do you read reviews before reading or buying a book? I do. Book reviews help readers like me decide if a book is worth our time. Sometimes, a low rating would dissuade me. But I’ve learned that it’s mostly the reader’s personal preference and not the writing or the plot. That’s why knowing how to write engaging book reviews has become more essential than ever. So, let me share the six steps I follow when writing a good book review. Plus tips, because I’m generous like that. 😊 1. Understand Your Target Audience How to do a book review? The first step is knowing who’s going to read it. Who are they?They could be ardent fans of a specific genre.Book club members or casual readers looking for their next read. New authors scouting for what ticks the audience.Where do they read reviews?Social media platformsBook review sitesBlogsAmazon Tailor Your Review to Their Interests Once you’ve identified your target readers, focus your review on their interests. Mystery enthusiasts: emphasize elements like plot twists and suspense in your book review writing. Romance readers: discuss the authenticity of relationships and emotional depth. A good book review matches its content to the audience’s needs and preferences, making for a more relevant and engaging critique. And always keep it genuine. Honest book reactions are invaluable in helping potential readers decide if they want to spend time on a particular book. GifDB 2. Read and Prepare Successful book review writing begins long before the first draft. a. Thoroughly Read the BookExperiencing the book as a reader first allows you to form initial impressions and reactions. It’s crucial to read the trigger warning provided by the author (usually in the blurb). This should prepare you for what to expect so you don’t get upset or feel negatively about it, which would subjectively affect your review. b. Take Notes and Highlight Key PointsAs you read, jot down key themes, plot developments, character arcs, emotions you felt, what was running through your head while reading that part, and standout quotes. These notes will serve as the backbone of your review. And help you write the review faster.Emito 3. Structure an Engaging Book Review There are different ways to structure your feedback. This structure serves as a tool, not a rule, for you to excel in book writing reviews. Remember, there’s no one ‘right’ way to write an engaging book review—the key is to let your sincere and honest reactions guide your writing. Here’s a book review structure I follow:HookBrief introductionAnalysisPersonal insightsConclusion a. Hook the Reader Start your book review with an intriguing sentence, a captivating question, a surprising fact, or a relatable scenario that piques the reader’s interest. For instance, in my book review of Twisted Love by Ana Huang, I wrote:You say stoic and cold, but he’ll burn the world for her; I say, “Shut up and take my money!”That should get the attention of those who love this kind of MMC (male main character), and they’ll get a taste of how the story would go. b. Briefly Introduce the Book You can add the blurb in the book, write your own summary, or introduce the book you’re reviewing, including the title and the author. Provide a concise overview of the plot without giving away too much. The goal is to entice your readers to read more. c. Analysis This is where you delve into the specifics and technicalities. Discuss Strengths and Weaknesses: Discuss what worked for you and what didn’t regarding plot, pacing, and character development. Most readers like fast-paced plots, slow burns, and plot twists.Explore Themes, Characters, and Writing Style: Discuss the themes it explores, the depth of its characters and the author’s writing style. Use evocative language to make your analysis engaging and informative. d. Add Your Personal Insights More than reading the technicality of the book, I prefer to know what the reader thinks about the story. How did you react? Did it move you, make you laugh, swoon, scream? Did you want to throw the book across the room? (Happens to me sometimes) In my review of Where It Began by Lucy Score, this is what I wrote:Well, damn. I thought I was ready for this.After all, I already know what happened in the first six books.But there I was, book in hand. Broken and destroyed. Shattered, then beautifully rebuilt. I laughed. I grieved. I was gutted. And then, like Phoebe, filled with hope and love.Sh!t, is someone chopping onions again?? The more honest, the better. This makes me gauge whether a review is mostly just a personal preference. What didn’t work for them might work for me, and vice versa. e. Conclusion Summarize your thoughts and give your final verdict—would you recommend the book? This is how I wrapped up my book review of Twisted Love:Did it live up to the hype? It did for me.Will I recommend this? Yes, if you like the tropes and don’t mind the author’s warning.Giphy 4. Add Value to Your Review A quality book review does more than just critique a book—it offers additional value beyond the book itself. Here’s how you can do that: Recommend Similar Books or Authors: If the book reminds you of other works, mention them. This could be useful for readers who enjoy those similar books.Consider the Book’s Relevance to Current Events: If applicable, discuss how the book reflects or contributes to ongoing societal conversations. This can make your review more interesting and relatable to your readers. Or if it’s a Christmas-themed book, recommend it around the holidays.Discuss the Book’s Impact on You as a Reader: Open up about how the book affected you. Did it change your mind about something? Did it inspire you? Sharing your engagement with the text can make your review more compelling and relatable. You can check some of my book review examples here.Yarn 5. Edit and Proofread Writing a book review doesn’t stop once the last word is written. Editing and proofreading are essential steps to shape your review for publication. Check for Grammar, Spelling, and Punctuation: Polish your book review by ensuring it’s free from typographical errors. A clean, error-free review demonstrates attentiveness and professionalism, boosting your credibility as a reviewer.Ensure Clarity and Coherence: Each sentence should flow seamlessly into the next, and your ideas should clearly build upon each other. Get Feedback from Peers, if Possible: Another set of eyes can catch things you might have missed and provide valuable insights. If it’s feasible, have a friend or peer review your review.TumblrI used Grammarly for this, and it's yet to fail me. If you want to sign up for Grammarly, please use my referral link. 😉 6. Select an appropriate rating system A rating system can add an at-a-glance assessment to complement your honest reaction and detailed review. However, choose one that aligns with your review style and your readers’ expectations. Star Ratings: The most common system, usually 1 to 5 stars. It’s intuitive, simple, and widely recognized by readers. Explain also what makes a book earn such a rating. This is what I use.Numerical Ratings: Similar to star ratings, but typically out of 10. This allows for more nuanced ratings as it provides more options.Letter Grades: This can be useful if your readers know the academic grading system. It ranges typically from an A+ to an F.Descriptors: Instead of numerical or symbolic ratings, you can use words (like “Exceptional,” “Great,” “Good,” “Fair,” and “Poor”) to describe the quality of the book.Just for fun, I made a Rating System based on Taylor Swift song titles on my Instagram account. GiphyTips for Writing Engaging ReviewsReady to start writing a book review that stands out? Here are some tips to help your thoughts shine:Use Vivid and Descriptive Language: To engage your readers, paint a clear picture with your words. For example, instead of saying, “The setting was nice,” you could write, “The setting was a quaint, sun-drenched village nestled in the rolling hills, evoking a sense of serenity.”Provide Specific Examples and Quotes: Including brief and relevant excerpts from the book to fortify your points and provide context for your thoughts. (See my Obsession Falls book review, for example).Be Honest and Balanced in Your Assessment: A balanced, honest book review won’t just lavish praise or dish out harsh criticism. It acknowledges both the strengths and weaknesses of the book, providing readers with an objective view. This is what I wrote for Things We Hide From The Light (Knockemout Book 2) by Lucy Score:Is there something I didn’t like about it?These Morgan brothers are carrying heavy baggage, and just like Knox, I didn’t like how Nash handled things with Lina. But then again, that’s just me. Lol. In the end, he made things right, so there’s redemption. Knowing who Lina’s ex was was also awkward for me at first. But I got used to the idea since everyone’s already happy where they are.Avoid Spoilers or Use Spoiler Warnings: Nothing ruins a reading experience quite like an unexpected spoiler. If you must include one, make sure to warn your readers beforehand. It’s about respect and common courtesy. For example, I include my favorite scenes without spoiling the plot.Favorite Scenes:Shania Twain CDParking lot fightSnowball fightSloane and Lucian’s momEvery time Sloane and Lucian are at each other’s throatMake Your Review Unique and Personal: Your perspective makes your review special. Don’t shy away from sharing your emotional reactions and personal insights. Keep Your Review Concise and Focused: While it’s easy to ramble on about a book, a great review is concise and meaningful. Be sure to focus on key points and keep your thoughts organized.Gipher Share Your Review After you’ve taken the time to truthfully and thoughtfully craft your book review, it’s time to share your insights: Post on your blog or a review platform: Make your review accessible by posting it on your blog or a book review platform like Goodreads. This will help others make informed reading choices and build your reputation as a reliable reviewer.Promote on social media: Use social media to notify your network about your new review, drawing readers in with a compelling quote or a provocative question. Interact with comments and feedback: Respond to comments, thank readers for their feedback, and use the interaction to spark a conversation about the book. PinterestWhy are book reviews critical?Book reviews connect readers, writers, and books in one interactive loop. For readers: a place to share their thoughts and help others consider.For authors: identify which part of their work needs improvement and receive affirmation from their fans. How long should a book review be?The ideal length for a book review depends on several factors, including: Platform: Different platforms have different expectations. Blogs, review websites, social media, and academic journals may have specific word count requirements. Genre: Reviews for shorter genres like poetry or children’s books might be naturally faster than those for longer, complex novels. Target audience: A shorter review might be ideal if your audience is casual readers interested in a quick overview. A more extended review could be preferable for more dedicated readers wanting deeper insights. Here are some general guidelines: Short reviews: 250-500 words Good for platforms with limited space or for quick, concise overviews. Focus on the book’s key points and offer a general recommendation. Medium-length reviews: 500-750 words The most common length offers enough space for analysis and personal insights. Discuss strengths and weaknesses, provide examples, and give a more nuanced recommendation. Long reviews: 750-1500 words Suitable for in-depth analysis, comparisons with other works, and exploring the book’s themes and literary elements. Best for dedicated readers or academic settings. Don’t feel constrained by word count. Prioritize conveying your message effectively. Gifer Takeaway: How To Write Engaging Book Reviews A good book review is a gift to authors, a beacon for fellow readers, and a space to express your feelings and thoughts. Writing book reviews is simple, but how to write engaging book reviews can be a challenge. Remember, the most meaningful reviews come from a place of honesty and passion, so be genuine. Follow these engaging book review tips. And always, always be kind. Do you read reviews before buying any product?This post contains affiliate links, so we'd get a commission if you purchase through the links at no additional cost. Thank you!Hey, you wanna be book buddies? I share short book reviews, recommendations, funny memes, and relatable reels on my Instagram account @booksandblogs_lux. Follow me there! I also post my reviews on Goodreads.
Books ARC Book Review: It Should Have Been Us by Anna B. Doe 7:04 PM Love is always enough. But that doesn’t mean it’s easy. Or that it doesn’t require any effort. -It Should Have Been Us by Anna B. DoeSome people claim they don’t regret anything in life. Are you one of them? I’m definitely not. There are things I wish I’d have done differently. I just finished reading another advanced reader copy from a newly discovered author, and it made me think about my could have, should have, would have. Here’s my ARC review for It Should Have Been Us by Anna B. Doe.Book SummaryHe is the best man to her maid of honor. He’s also the boy who broke her heart three years ago.They were besties since diapers and high school sweethearts before they became exes.Rebecca and Miguel have again crossed paths for their best friends’ wedding.She has to confront the boy who once destroyed her heart. And as their paths intertwine, the secrets she has kept hidden threaten to resurface, leaving her with no escape from the past she thought she had left behind.“It was like an invisible string was pulling me toward it.” “We were connected in a way I could never honestly explain.”The CharactersRebecca Allison ‘Becky’ WilliamsA lovable, loyal, supportive friendDoting daughter and sisterTalented baker and owner of The Reading Nook (cafe + reading area)Miguel’s “Red”“There was always something about Rebecca that drew my attention from the time we were kids. It was her natural beauty and the determined way she walked through the world.Rebecca was my best friend. More than that, she was my person. Somebody who knew me so well that I didn’t have to open my mouth, and she’d already be there. She could read me without an issue, and I was the same.”Miguel Luis FernandezNFL starProdigal sonAlways have a soft spot for kidsBecky’s taste tester“It was funny because although I’ve been in Bluebonnet my whole life, feeling Miguel’s arms wrapped around me felt like I was finally, finally home once again.”TropesSecond chance romanceSports romanceBest friends to loversSmall-town romanceAngsty and steamyIt’s always been youRating⭐⭐⭐⭐💫🌶🌶🌶ARC Review: It Should Have Been Us by Anna B. DoeIt was nice to return home to Bluebonnet, where I first met Becky and Miguel in the book Kiss Me First (Emmet and Kate). It Should Have Been Us made me laugh but also broke my heart and put me back together.This book is an excellent reminder that constantly thinking about the past and all the “what-ifs” can hold you back and stop you from finding happiness.Why I like it:Becky. I’ve adored Rebecca ever since Kiss Me First. She’s kind but feisty. She’s always there supporting Miguel and Emmet from football practices to games, rain or shine. You’ll want to have her in your corner. Unexpected bomb. Just when I thought this would be another book of funny banters and cute ex-lovers who found their way back together, Anna B. Doe dropped a bomb that gave me all. The. Feels. 😩Healing closure. I don’t like misunderstandings in books, but I like the closure they both get. Along the way, I understood why they acted the way they did. Roller coaster of emotions. I like it when the book serves different emotions. I laughed a few times. I’ve missed the verbal battle between Miguel and Becky. There is tension between them every time they’re around each other. There were tears and heartaches, not just for them but also for some people around them.Indeed, it’s the things we didn’t do that we regret the most.The worst feeling in the world is knowing you could make things right, but you let it slip away.Knowing you could have prevented it is the only thing worse than a broken heart.And I felt all that while reading what came down between this couple I’ve come to love.Will I recommend this book?If you’re into second-chance love stories with lots of heart-fluttering moments, heartwrenching pasts, steamy scenes, and hard-earned happily ever after, this is your jam.Favorite ScenesPre-wedding football game in the backyardSeeing my fave characters from Blairwood University (another sports romance series from Anna B. Doe’s universe)Favorite QuotesYou can try to reason, but you and I both know you were made for me. This is inevitable. We’re inevitable.These last three years have felt like I was walking alone in the dark, endless tunnel with no way out. Coming back. Seeing her again. It was like I finally could see the light at the end of it.Love is always enough. But that doesn’t mean it’s easy. Or that it doesn’t require any effort.I loved her before I fell in love with her. She had me wrapped around her finger, completely enticed, and I was starting to wonder if that would ever change.She was the sun, and I was the one circling around her this whole time, needing her warmth and her light. Her love. I needed her love like I needed air to breathe.You’re my ride-or-die, Rebecca Williams. My forever.What are you reading next?I’m honored to be part of the ARC team for this book. If you want to check out It Should Have Been Us by Anna B. Doe, it’s FREE on Kindle Unlimited and available in paperback. Release date: December 08, 2023 on Amazon.This post contains affiliate links, so we’d get a commission if you purchase through the links at no additional cost. Thank you!Question for YouDo you believe in second chances? Where do you draw the line?Hey, you wanna be book buddies? I share short book reviews, recommendations, funny memes, and relatable reels on my Instagram account @booksandblogs_lux. Follow me there! I also post my reviews on Goodreads.
Books ARC Book Review: Where We Fall By Nicole Baker 5:00 PM ARC Book Review Where We Fall By Nicole Baker I've received another advanced reader copy from another favorite author of mine, Nicole Baker. Where We Fall is the third book in The Giannelli Series- Love in Little Italy. The release date is December 08 (my birthday!). Lexi and Marcus are another fictional couple that stole my heart. So, without further ado, here's my ARC review for Where We Fall by Nicole Baker.Book SummaryWhen an unexpected encounter jeopardizes their company's relationship with their top client, Marcus's siblings devise an unconventional plan. They propose that Marcus bring Lexi, their reserved and makeup-free IT Director, to the client's prestigious charity gala as his fake girlfriend. Despite Lexi's conservative style and timid nature, Marcus agrees to the charade in hopes of salvaging their business connection.As Marcus guides Lexi through a stunning transformation, he begins to notice more than just her physical changes. A newfound confidence emanates from Lexi, captivating Marcus in unexpected ways. As they keep playing the couple, Marcus can't help but feel drawn to Lexi on a deeper level. It's gone beyond playing pretend."I think getting us in each other's lives clearly wasn't enough. I was too blind. Fate needed to create a scenario that opened my eyes to what was right in front of me."The CharactersMarcusAccording to himself: The funny one, the idiot, the screw-up, the troublemaker. According to Lexi: That's just how Marcus is. He doesn't judge people by their shortcomings. He understands their past and chooses to be nice regardless of what is thrown at him. If there were more people like him in this world, we would be better off.LexiHardworking. Good daughter. IT genius. Doesn't wear makeup and wears baggy clothes almost twice her size. According to Marcus: Intelligent, bold, and kindhearted."I can tell underneath the glasses there's a pretty face. Perfectly feminine and elegant." TropesFake datingWorkplace romanceReformed playboyFun family dynamicsDual POVRating⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐🌶🌶🌶🌶ARC Review: Where We Fall by Nicole BakerWhere We Fall is a romantic comedy novel with swoon and steam. Here are some reasons why I like it:1. Good pacing.It's a quick and easy read.2. They bring out the best in each other. Marcus and Lexi encouraged and inspired each other to be better versions of themselves. At first, I didn't like the idea of Marcus suggesting Lexi needs a makeover to fit his standards for a girlfriend. But they're faking the relationship, and Marcus has a point. They have to be believable. Everybody knows Lexi isn't his type. And Lexi needs to feel good about herself so she'd be comfortable being at Marcus's side. Marcus wasn't a douche about it; he was actually apologetic because he didn't want it to come out insulting or offensive.Later, you'll learn that Lexi was not dressing up how she wanted to. Her childhood upbringing was holding her back from showing her best self. Marcus made her realize that she could be better. He pushed her to spread her wings. Because of the physical transformation, Lexi found confidence. So, instead of hating Marcus for wanting to change her looks, you'll thank him for suggesting it.Lexi made Marcus realize his worth. She showed him his strength and taught him to stand up for himself. To show the world - and his family - how brilliant and capable he is at what he does.3. Perfectly imperfect together.Marcus and Lexi are that couple you won't expect to get together on paper, but they're perfect for each other. They both saw each other for who they were beyond the facade they wore for other people. And they helped each other realize and show their potential.4. The Gianellis. What can I say? Everyone's just charming, hot, and perfect. The Gianellis are as supportive and loyal to each other as always. You'd want to be a part of the family or be friends with these people. And attend their Sunday family dinner for the food (Italian family makes the best food, right?) and the laughter.5. Grand Gesture and Happy Ending. I'm a sucker for happily ever after! But I like the story more if I knew it's HEA-guaranteed, but it still makes me think about how they will work things out to get there. Who's gonna follow who? Are they going to compromise? So, it kept me on my toes.I like that Lexi puts her family first and that Marcus does the same, but they make it work even when they encounter a bump along the way.Will I recommend this book? 100% if you like the tropes. Favorite ScenesThe makeover (when Lexi realized she could be more than what she thought she deserved)The Charity GalaThe post-Charity Gala Marcus' library (every booklover's dream)Favorite Quotes from the BookBeing with her was like learning to breathe deeply for the first time. I'm a mess without you. I don't want to live in a world where I don't see your face every day.What are you reading next?I'm already excited for Mia Giannelli's story. I'm honored to be part of the ARC team for this fantastic book. If you want to check out Where We Fall By Nicole Baker, it's FREE on Kindle Unlimited and available in paperback. It will be available on December 08, 2023 on Amazon.This post contains affiliate links, so we'd get a commission if you purchase through the links at no additional cost. Thank you!Question for YouWhat's the most heartwarming and extravagant thing you've ever done or that someone has done for you?Hey, you wanna be book buddies? I share short book reviews, recommendations, funny memes, and relatable reels on my Instagram account @booksandblogs_lux. Follow me there! I also post my reviews on Goodreads.