Books Book Review: Finding Hayes by Laura Pavlov 3:52 PM Finding Hayes is fun, heart-tugging, steamy 🥵, and charming. It is a beautiful finale to one of my beloved small-town romance series, Magnolia Falls. I was on cloud 9 when I received this book's ARC (advanced reader copy). Here's my book review of Finding Hayes by Laura Pavlov.Finding Hayes SummaryHayes and Savannah were inseparable as kids. But a decade ago, she skipped town without a word, leaving him heartbroken and adrift. Now, she's back, and their complicated history is reignited. A fake marriage, a fragile truce, and many unresolved feelings. Can they rekindle their lost connection, or will the past forever haunt their future?TropesBest friends to strangers to fake spouses to loversMarriage of convenienceSmall townGrumpy Firefighter x Sunshiny Interior Designer"It's always been you" vibeFinding Hayes Book ReviewFinding Hayes is a well-written and engaging story exploring friendship, love, and redemption themes. The characters are relatable and endearing, and the story is filled with heartwarming moments. I was so excited for Hayes' story because he's the adorable grump I've loved since the first book of the Magnolia Falls series. Top right image: PinterestHayes WoodsonSigh. I mean, come on. This firefighter hero is everything you could ever want in a man. Watching him unravel around his childhood best friend, Savannah, is so fun and swoony. He may seem tough and gruff, but he's a softie to those closest to him.He's the ultimate protector, always putting others before himself. He's a natural-born dad, even if he doesn't quite realize it yet. And honestly, can you blame him for having walls up? After everything he went through as a kid, it's a miracle he can love. But boy, when Hayes Woodson loves, he loves wholeheartedly. This man gave up his dreams just to protect his sister. And how he is with his godson, little Cutler. Total dad material.Plus, they don't call him Rambo for nothing. He saved that little girl in the fire and walked out looking like that movie protagonist. He's the firefighter every town needs."A man who would do anything to protect his sister because he loves her so fiercely. A man who would walk through fire for his friends. A man who takes his responsibility as a godfather to Cutler very seriously, hence the endless supply of chocolate milk in the refrigerator. A man who was willing to marry a woman he hadn't seen in over a decade because she needed him." - Savannah describing HayesTenorSavannah "Shortcake" AbbotI love her resilience. This girl is Hayes's perfect match; their dynamic is just fun to witness. My heart broke for her, thinking her best friend abandoned her when she needed him most. But there was so much more to the story. I'm glad they cleared the air out. "She was always a bright light, even when sht was raining down on her.""Some people were glass-half-full people. Othes half empty. Savannah Abbot's glass had always been overflowing." - Hayes describing SavannahTenorPrecious FriendshipImagine not speaking to your best friend for a decade, both of you having issues with each other because of miscommunication, and then finding each other and getting married. What?! But the solid foundation they've had, like peas and carrots, two souls who had to weather their storms of pain and humiliation won. Those letters Hayes wrote during their time apart? STOP IT. My heart wasn't ready. The raw emotion, the longing - made me tear up."You were a part of me in a way that I can't even explain. I would do anything for you, but I also trusted that you would do anything for me."Ride or D!e CrewOh, it is a delight to see these beautiful hunks of men reduced to a puddle for Cutler and their women. Their group chat is as hilarious as ever. They are a beautiful found family.RedemptionI love how Laura took me on the journey, not just of Hayes and Savannah finding each other again but also of Hayes finding his true self and purpose. And Savannah finds her home in a town she once abandoned. I love how, despite the pain they went through hurting each other unintentionally, they're still there for each other when push comes to shove."He's my parner in crime till the end of time, and he's my friend but that doesn't rhyme. Even when I'm lost and in a daze, I can always find my Hayes." - Savannah's poem for HayesPeas and CarrotsI love how Savannah brought color and life into Hayes's gray world. He just thought he was content with his life—a good and heroic job, loyal friends, and his wonderful sister—but Savannah showed him what he's been missing and that a selfless person deserves more."Savannah Woodson had a gift for bringing everyone around her to life."Small-town CharmI love the beautiful town of Magnolia Falls, the heartwarming friendships not just with the RoD guys but also with their women, Beefcake charming everyone as always, and the cute family pets. It doesn't hurt that Magnolia Falls offers a stunning view.Minor GripeI wouldn't have minded seeing Hayes's scheming ex get more comeuppance for causing that damage in their friendship. But watching Hayes and Savannah get their happily ever after? That could be the best revenge.VerdictFinding Hayes is the perfect cherry on top of this fantastic series. It's got all the feels, all the swoons, and every reason to fall head over heels for Magnolia Falls one more time. This romance will have you believing in second chances and the beauty of coming home to your person. Laura Pavlov has done it again. Can't wait to see where Laura will take us next!Favorite Quotes"It had been the girl next door who had my heart all along.""You came back to town like a blazing wildfire and brought me back to life. Setting my world on fire. And I know without question that we belong together."What are you reading next?Please add Finding Hayes (Magnolia Falls 5) by Laura Pavlov to your reading list. It's now available on Kindle Unlimited, audiobook, and paperback.Hey, book lovers! You can find me on Goodreads, Instagram, and Pinterest. If you give me a follow, drop me a message so I can return the favor. Let's create a cozy corner for chapter chasers and share our passion for literature. (No following to unfollow, please! 😒)
Books Book Review: Just Between Us By Lena Hendrix 11:53 AM I was over the moon when I received Just Between Us ARC (advanced reader copy). This third installment in The Kings series is a heartwarming small-town romance that beautifully showcases the magic of opposites attracting. It was one of my most anticipated reads of the month and didn’t disappoint. I can’t wait to share my book review of Just Between Us by Lena Hendrix with you.Just Between Us SummaryRoyal King: Creative artist and owner of Outtatowner’s King Tattoo. “Educational” content creator.“Royal was nothing like any man I’ve ever experienced. He was charming and kind. Sexy and mysterious. He was dangerous.”Veda Bauer: Smart and competent business manager. “When I’d first seen Veda, she was hell on wheels - her take-no-sh!t attitude was on full display, and she oozed masculine energy. With me, she was soft and pliant.”Blurb“For so long I had spent every waking second too caught up in the moment to take stock of my surroundings, and now I was tangled with a woman who only played by the rules.”Royal King is a charismatic and troublemaking playboy, and Veda Bauer is the woman cleaning up his family's mess.Despite their initial animosity, a clandestine connection develops as they exchange anonymous messages. Their playful banter escalates into a hidden romance, challenging their personal boundaries and forcing them to confront their covert desires.TropesSmall townSecret relationshipSpicy lessonsOpposites attract: black cat/golden retriever energyMysteryFun bantersHEA (happily ever after)Just Between Us Book ReviewJust Between Us is a dream come true for my black cat FMC (female main character) x golden retriever MMC fantasies. It’s hot, sweet, and utterly charming. It’s got humor, heart, and enough steam to fog up your e-reader. If you love seeing opposites fall like leaves to gravity (with a side of mystery to keep readers on their toes), this book is your next must-read.Rating⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐🌶🌶🌶🌶What I LikeRoyal King. Let’s talk about this guy for a hot minute. He makes me think about the lyrics, “I scratch your head, you fall asleep like a tattooed golden retriever.” Easygoing, mischievous, and always ready with a quip in any situation. Often described as scary, imposing, or menacing. But don’t let that fool you. Underneath those sexy tattoos are layers that make you want to hold that little boy before the hometown knows him as the Royal King. “You’re fun and optimistic and kind and sensitive. Big golden retriever energy.”Veda Bauer is a powerhouse. I love a woman who stands up for what’s right, even if that means losing a job. I can relate to how she always wants to be in control. I know it could be tiring. Sometimes, even the most independent individuals need a supportive partner to lean on, often without realizing it.“That woman looks like she would crush your balls and smile about it.”“You cross a black cat and you’re bound to get scratched.”Their chemistry? Off the charts! Love the banters and steam.Safe space. I love how Royal helps Veda loosen up and let go of control without changing her outside of that. Royal’s patience and care for her needs (in and out of the bedroom, if you know what I mean 😉) are just... *chef’s kiss*. “I will stand beside every version of you. You can frown all you want to.”Veda also does the same for him. She helps him face his demons and holds him when he needs to be vulnerable. It’s not just steamy scenes (though, holy cow, Royal King! 🥵). It’s the way they become each other’s rock. Veda holding Royal as he faces his past is good stuff. That’s what partnership is about.“We take care of each other.”Allison AldrigeThe Bluebird Book Club. Where can I find a book club like this? These ladies rally behind each other despite their differences, no questions asked. MJ King is the bestie every awkward new girl needs. This sweet girl deserves the world. (I wonder who will capture her heart).Sullivans and Kings. It’s adorable and funny how similar they are. Especially Lee and Royal. I can’t believe they used to feud. It feels like only yesterday when I read about how they prank and get at under each other’s skin in the Sullivans series. My, how far we’ve come. Suspense. All those burning questions from the Kings and Sullivans series I have have finally been answered! It might not be what I hoped for, but at least my curious mind can now rest. I love how the whole town cooperated to shake the villain Russel King.Lena Hendrix, you sneaky genius, leaving us with that cliffhanger for JP’s story! I’m already counting down the days.VerdictI wholeheartedly recommend this book. While you can technically read it as a standalone, I highly suggest checking out the previous books in The Kings series for a deeper understanding of the mystery. And if you’re up for it, start with the Sullivans series. It’s all interconnected, and the intrigue actually begins there. Trust me, you won’t want to miss out on any of the excitement.Favorite QuotesWhat are you reading next?Just Between Us by Lena Hendrix will be released on October 15, 2024, and is now available for pre-order on Amazon.Hey, book lovers! Check out my top book recommendations listed by tropes here. You can find me on Goodreads, Instagram, and Pinterest. If you give me a follow, drop me a message so I can return the favor. Let’s create a cozy corner for chapter chasers and share our passion for literature. (No following to unfollow, please! 😒)
Books Book Review: Temptation Trails By Claire Kingsley 12:30 PM I was so pumped to get an ARC (advance reader copy) of Claire Kingsley’s Temptation Trails. As a fan of her work (I read ALL her books!), I dove in with high hopes. Let me tell you, it didn’t disappoint. This latest addition to Kingsley’s masterpieces delivers everything I expect in a romantic suspense novel. From page one, I was hooked. If you’re looking for a page-turner, my Temptation Trails book review might pique your interest.Temptation Trails Book Summary🍪 Harper Tilburn: Superstitious town baker“Her eyes were a mesmerizing green. But it was her smile that almost knocked me over. Big, bright, beautiful. She was gorgeous. I blinked. What was I doing there?” - Garrett describing Harper🚨 Garrett Haven: Single dad, sheriff’s deputy“He was such a heady combination of handsome, intimidating, and drop-dead sexy. The kind of man who made you contemplate breaking the law just so he could arrest you.” - Harper describing GarrettBlurbRule follower and town hero Garrett Haven has no time for romance. Harper Tilburn, new to Tilikum, swears off dating until her bad luck streak ends. But when they meet, sparks fly.As Garrett pursues Harper, a cold case he’s investigating heats up. Now, he fears Harper might be the next target.With lives at stake, Garrett must protect those he loves and catch the culprit before it’s too late.TropesSweet Baker meets protective LawmanSwoon-worthy romanceSuspense Heartwarming found familyLovable teenage sonGuaranteed HEA (happily ever after)Temptation Trails Book ReviewRating⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐🌶🌶🌶Temptation Trails is a gripping romantic suspense. It made me exercise my detective skills and inquisitive mind while I was swept away by a swoon-worthy romance that raced my heart. It’s another Claire Kingsley hit—small-town suspense romance at its finest.Upper center and lower left pic from PinterestWhat I likeGarrett Haven. The kind of law enforcement officer you’d like to have in your town, the imperfect father who loves unconditionally, and the lover you dream of having. Perfect pacing. Never boring, never rushed.Sizzling chemistry. Garrett’s flustered moments around Harper are gold. There’s instant attraction. You’ll feel that magnetic pull when they’re around each other.Owen’s character arc. From problematic teen to the young man Garrett Haven raised: protective, brave, selfless, and just plain adorable.Tilikum. Reading another book set in one of my favorite fictional towns is like coming home. They may be quirky, but the residents always show up when needed.Strong female friendship. I love women supporting women.Minor Quibbles:I’m not superstitious, so I couldn’t relate to bad luck ruling her life whenever Harper mentions it.VerdictWill recommend it faster than another Tilikum squirrel could steal a cookie.Cannonball ReadFavorite ScenesThe pizza boxHeartwarming, wholesome moments between Harper and OwenFavorite Quotes“When I’m with you, I feel whole in a way I’ve never felt before. I can’t explain it. Maybe it’s crazy and maybe it’s too fast, but I don’t care. I love you.”“My dreams were coming true, even the ones I’d been too afraid to dream. I couldn’t have imagined a better happy ending to our story. And really, we were just beginning.”What are you reading next?Please add Temptation Trails by Claire Kingsley (The Haven Brothers Book 3) to your reading list. It’s now available on Kindle Unlimited, audiobook, and paperback.Hey, book lovers! You can find me on Goodreads, Instagram, and Pinterest. If you give me a follow, drop me a message so I can return the favor. Let’s create a cozy corner for chapter chasers and share our passion for literature. (No following to unfollow, please! 😒)
Books Book Review: The Last Time by Nicole Baker 5:51 PM I had the privilege of beta reading for one of my favorite romance authors. I’m here to share my book review of The Last Time by Nicole Baker.Book SummarySunshine girl Charlotte inherits her childhood lake house, brimming with happy and painful memories. She returns after 10 years and plans a quick fix-up, sell-off, and never turning back. But old friends and a sizzling reunion with her teenage crush, Mr. Fix-It-All Asher, throw a wrench in her plans.Asher, a single dad hardened by grief, didn’t think love was in the cards again. But Charlotte’s sunshine might just melt his icy exterior. Can they move on and make a life together if they can’t let go of past hurts?TropesSmall-town romanceTeenage crushAge gapBest friend’s brotherClose proximitySingle dadSpicyDual POVThe Last Time by Nicole Baker Book ReviewThis easy read made me smile, laugh, swoon, and cry a little. The Last Time by Nicole Baker is a heartwarming—and spicy—romance novel, but it’s not just about finding love when you least expect it. It’s a journey of forgiveness, acceptance, and the courage to begin again. It’s a touching story about healing, the importance of letting go of the past, and holding on to what brings you joy.Rating⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐🌶🌶🌶What I likeNicole’s Writing StyleThis book was a breeze to read. The writing is clean and straightforward, with no flowery language or head-scratching sentences to slow you down. It’s like the author tells you a story over coffee - easy to follow and keeps you engaged. The pacing is spot-on, not too fast, not too slow. You just get sucked into the world, and it feels natural. This author just lets the story shine through, making you want to turn the pages to see what happens next.Plot TwistThe story throws a surprising curveball about Asher’s past that had me guessing until the reveal. It’s a clever twist that keeps you invested in the unfolding mystery.TenorCharlotte’s House/The SettingI’d love to escape to the idyllic Isle of Hope, a charming small town with a glistening lake as its heart. I can imagine cozy evenings by the water, a book in hand, or watching the sunset with my husband. CharlotteDespite a painful family past, her resilience shines through. She’s an inspiration for anyone who’s ever had to pick up the pieces and rebuild.AsherHe may not be likable on the surface, but don’t let Asher’s gruff exterior fool you. Underneath the layers of grief and loss is a devoted father and a kind heart. PinterestHouse MetaphorFor me, the story beautifully uses the restoration of Charlotte’s childhood home as a metaphor for the emotional healing of both Charlotte and Asher. As they rebuild the house, they rebuild themselves, finding strength and love in the process.Side CharactersThe sparks between Josh and Layla add a sizzling layer of secondary romance to the story. Their playful banter hints at a future love story waiting to unfold. And I’m here for it! What could be improved?This first book does a great job establishing the central romance, but I craved a deeper introduction to the supporting characters. A few well-placed hints about their personalities would have left me even more excited to dive into the next installment and explore their potential storylines.YaytextQuotes“One of my gifts was the ability to tune out the world in my emotions. I’m not saying it’s healthy, but it works for me.”“How do you grieve the loss of someone that you lost a long time ago?”“Who would have thought that having Charlotte Bates back in my life would cause such a tidal wave of changes in me?”“Honesty can only take you so far eventually, you have to own up to the fact that you’re just being cruel. One thing I’ve learned over the years, intention matters.”“It dawns on me that since Charlotte has been here, my life has been filled with smiles and laughs.”Yaytext“Wouldn’t it be nice if we all lived in a world where we weren’t scared s******* to feel our feelings?”“I hate that I don’t know your favorite yet, so I got one of everything, but I promise I will be spending the rest of my life learning everything you like and spoiling you with it.”“It was like a fairy tale. A dirty fairy tale where the heroine has very dirty thoughts about the hero.”“To me, that’s the biggest grand gesture a woman can ask for a man who is willing to work on himself to be the best man he can be for the woman he loves. That’s a real man. I don’t need a flashing moment in front of the crowd; anybody can do that.”Will I recommend The Last Time by Nicole Baker?If you love the tropes mentioned, you should definitely read it.What are you reading next?Please add The Last Time by Nicole Baker to your reading list. It’s now 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!Check out my top romance novel recommendations categorized by tropes.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 Are Romance Novels Anti-Feminist? 10:17 PM Are romance novels anti-feminist, demeaning, and objectifying women? No, they are not! So before you write off the fictional romance genre, consider giving this a try: empowering romance novels for women bursting with strong female characters. (This comes from a romance reader and a big supporter of girl power.)Why are romance novels often stereotyped as anti-feminist?Here's the thing: some tropes can feel dated. A hero praising a woman as a "good girl" while demanding something in the bedroom? That can turn off strong women energy. But context matters. In many sex-positive romance books, these scenes are about female agency in love stories.TenorTraditional (Outdated) Gender Roles. Many romance novels depict stereotypical gender roles, with the male protagonist often portrayed as dominant, protective, and in control. In contrast, the female protagonist is often portrayed as submissive, passive, and needing rescuing. This perpetuates traditional gender norms and can be seen as regressive from a feminist perspective.Focus on Physical Appearance and Beauty. Some romance novels emphasize physical appearance and beauty, often portraying the female protagonist as attractive and desirable, while the male protagonist is typically portrayed as strong and handsome. This can reinforce unrealistic beauty standards and objectify women.Lack of Agency for Female Characters: In certain romance novels, female characters may lack agency and independence, relying heavily on the male protagonist for validation, decision-making, and fulfillment. This can undermine feminist ideals of empowerment and self-determination.Normalization of Toxic Relationship Dynamics: Some romance novels romanticize unhealthy relationships, such as possessiveness, jealousy, and control. This can perpetuate harmful stereotypes about love and relationships, reinforcing that possessive behavior is a sign of love rather than a red flag.Limited Diversity and Representation: Historically, romance novels have been criticized for their lack of diversity and representation, both in terms of race, ethnicity, sexual orientation, and other identities. Focus on Happily Ever After: While happy endings are a staple of romance novels (personally, that's what I'm looking for!), critics argue that the emphasis on finding a romantic partner and living happily ever after perpetuates the idea that a woman's ultimate goal and source of happiness should revolve around romantic relationships, rather than personal fulfillment, career aspirations, or other aspects of life.I'm glad to say that I haven't encountered any romance novels featuring these outdated themes.5 Reasons Why Romance Novels Are Actually FeministFrom what I've been reading in romance books, newer genres, especially those written by women, are breaking away from these traditional stereotypes.1. Romance novels often feature inspiring female characters.Feminist romance literature is all about shattering stereotypes. Forget damsels in distress. Today's heroines are strong female characters in romance. Health professionals saving lives and doing volunteer works in far-flung places.Artists chasing dreams.Single moms raising future leaders - just like real women you know. Straight-A model students.They juggle careers, families, and everything life throws their way while living on their own terms and navigating an often male-dominated environment (just like in the real world). Strong heroines are breaking gender norms in romance novels and are positive female representations in fiction.They are role models you can cheer for and relate to. Wifflegif2. Romance novels provide realistic expectations in relationships.Hear me out.Most romance novels I read have crazy rich characters who show their love ostentatiously.A guy who bought the restaurant his girl was having a dinner date in or the hottest NHL athlete who can get any girl but pursues a broke PE teacher.(Yes, cliche, but you gotta read them to understand.)These are not the relationship expectations I'm referring to.Contemporary romance novels empower women to demand better relationship treatment by setting higher standards.Grand gestures? Who doesn't want that? But it's not about having someone who'll chase you at the airport to profess their feelings. The real takeaway in these stories is that you deserve to be respected, cherished, heard, and swept off your feet (metaphorically, of course).GifDB3. Romance novels introduce you to alpha males with a heart.The heroes in the story might mostly be alpha males, confident in the bedroom, and maybe a tad possessive...but never abusive. In fact, consent is paramount for these men and is the highlight of these dynamics. These heroes are also sweet, loyal, and faithful. Even though they might seem like the boss, they'll never disrespect or cross their partner's boundaries. And they're no cheaters. Wifflegif4. Romance Novels: Guide to Healthy RelationshipsEmpowering romance novels for women is like a guidebook for relationships. They emphasize the importance of communication and loyalty. You'll also find solid female friendships and stories of found families, highlighting the importance of support networks and feminist themes in romance. And yes, if you need instructions in the bedroom, some of these books explicitly detail steamy scenes. If that means romance novels are anti-women, then the sun must rise in the west every morning.GetYarn5. Romance novels offer empowering escapism.Let's be honest: Sometimes, we all need an escape. Feminist romances offer a chance to unwind, find comfort, and learn something. Historical romance, fantasy romance, steamy romance, enemies-to-lovers, or second-chance romance.Whatever your trope is, these feel-good, happily ever after (HEA) reads can teach valuable lessons about self-worth and empower you to take on the world.MediumThe Heart of Romance: Feminism in ActionI saw a meme that says, "Feminism leaves my body when the male character says 'good girl.'" But jokes aside, romance novels can be full of feminist themes, celebrating equality, empowerment, and the power of healthy relationships. They showcase sexuality in a positive light and advocate for choice and representation in narratives.Discover a genre that celebrates strong female characters, defies stereotypes, and leaves you feeling good. Pick up a romance novel today. Top Romance Novels ListHere are some of the best romance novels with independent heroines I recommend. How about you?Do you think romance novels are demeaning to women? Why or why not?Check out my top romance novel recommendations categorized by tropes.Do 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 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 (Advanced Reader Copy) 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 quibblesPacing & DetailsWhile the narrative is engaging, I believe the pacing could benefit from some adjustments.There are sections where I felt additional detail would elevate the story. For instance, delving deeper into the characters' emotional responses to key events or showcasing their conversations and text messages directly, rather than relying solely on narration, could significantly enhance the reader's experience.Wait, that's it?Would’ve loved to see the school principal get his comeuppance, too. Maybe I’m a bit vindictive that way. But what they did to Aurora was unfair.I 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 since, so forgive the vagueness).I’m sure most readers don’t mind this minor ‘hiccup.’ Again, it’s just me.TenorWill 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!Check out my top romance novel recommendations categorized by tropes.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?Check out my top romance novel recommendations categorized by tropes.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.
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